bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexual and gender identities and alcohol use during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Stewart Susan D. , Manning Wendy D. , Gustafson Kristen E. , Kamp Dush Claire
Published: September 2024

This study examined differences in alcohol use by sexual and gender identities during the COVID-19 pandemic, and assessed whether variation between groups was explained by pandemic-related stressors and minority stress. Data from 2,429 partnered adults in the National Couples’ Health and Time Use Study (n = 3,593) collected from September 2020 to April 2021 were used to model drinking patterns (frequency, amount, and drinking to cope) by sexual and gender identities, COVID-19 stress and disruption, microaggressions, and supportive climate. Regression models indicated differences in drinking by gender and sexual identities, even controlling for demographic and socioeconomic factors. Gay, lesbian, and bisexual people had higher odds of drinking to cope with the pandemic than did heterosexual people, and cisgender men had higher odds than did cisgender women. Gay and lesbian people drank more regularly than did heterosexual people, as did cisgender men in relation to cisgender women. Exclusively bisexual people drank significantly more drinks than exclusively heterosexual people, and cisgender men drank significantly more drinks than did cisgender women and those who identified as trans/another gender identity. COVID-19 stress and minority stress were associated with greater alcohol consumption, but they did not account for these differentials. Moving forward, researchers will need to continuously assess these associations, as sources of discrimination and stress will persist beyond the pandemic. Although LGBTQ+ people have disproportionate sources of stress, they varied in how they used alcohol to cope. Potential sources of resilience among sexual and gender diverse individuals should be explored.
Efficacy and safety of berberine plus 5-ASA for ulcerative colitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Jilei , Zhang Chenchen , Xu Yanchao , Yang Lili
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of berberine(BBR) plus 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) for treating ulcerative colitis (UC). Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in electronic databases, including Medline/PubMed, Sinomed, Embase, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP, through January 2024 to identify all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that administered BBR conjunction in standard therapy(5-ASA) for to support the treatment of UC. The data were synthesized using a meta-analysis approach with RevMan 5.4.1. The primary endpoint was the clinical efficacy rate. In contrast, the secondary endpoints included the Baron score, disease activity index (DAI) score, symptom relief latency, inflammatory markers, immunological indicators, and adverse events. Results: In this analysis, 10 RCTs comprising 952 patients with UC were examined. BBR considerably improved the clinical efficacy rate (RR = 1.22, 95% CI [1.15, 1.30], P < 0.00001), attenuated the Baron score (SMD = -1.72, 95% CI [-2.30, -1.13], P < 0.00001) and reduced the DAI score (SMD = -2.93, 95% CI [-4.42, -1.43], P < 0.00001). Additionally, it ameliorated clinical symptoms (SMD = -2.74, 95% CI [-3.45, 2.02], P < 0.00001), diminished inflammatory responses (SMD = -1.59, 95% CI [-2.14, 1.04], P < 0.00001), and modulated immune reactions (SMD = 1.06,95% CI [0.24,1.87], P <0.00001). Nonetheless, the impact of BBR on reducing adverse reactions was not statistically significant (RR = 0.75, 95% CI [0.42, 1.33], P > 0.05). Conclusion: BBR demonstrates substantial efficacy in treating UC without causing severe adverse reactions and may serve as a viable complementary therapy. However, its clinical application warrants confirmation by additional high-quality, low-bias RCTs.
Effects of Exergaming on executive function and motor ability in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kou Ruijie , Zhang Zhenjie , Zhu Feilong , Tang Yanli , Li Zixuan
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Exergaming in improving executive function and motor ability across different groups of children and adolescents. We searched several databases, including PsycINFO, Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, SPORT Discus, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, for randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies published from inception until November 25, 2023, to identify studies investigating the effect of Exergaming on motor and executive function in children. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023482281). A total of 37 randomized controlled trials were included in this study. Our results indicate that Exergaming can influence children’s cognitive flexibility [SMD = 0.34, 95%CI(0.13,0.55), I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.738], inhibition control [SMD = 0.51, 95%CI (0.30,0.72), I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.473], global cognitive [SMD = 0.87, 95%CI (0.50,1.23), I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.974], working memory [SMD = 0.18, 95%CI(-0.16, 0.52), I2 = 46.5%, P = 0.096], gross motor skills [SMD = 0.82, 95%CI (0.30, 1.35), I2 = 79.1%, P<0.001], fine motor skills [SMD = 0.71, 95%CI (0.22,1.21), I2 = 78.7%, P<0.001], balance [SMD = 0.61, 95%CI (0.34, 0.88), I2 = 59.5%, P = 0.001], and cardiorespiratory [SMD = 0.48, 95%CI (0.16, 0.79), I2 = 58.4%, P = 0.019]. While these findings suggest that Exergaming can promote children’s cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, global cognition and motor abilities, the effect on working memory was not statistically significant. Further high-quality randomized controlled trials are warranted to explore the potential benefits of Exergaming for different groups of children, including those with specific needs.
Increased risk of cardiac arrhythmia in Hailey-Hailey disease patients
Authors: Jebril William , Curman Philip , Andersson Daniel C. , Larsson Henrik , Bachar-Wikstrom Etty , Cederlöf Martin , Wikstrom Jakob D.
Published: September 2024

Background

Hailey-Hailey disease (HHD) is a rare autosomal dominant skin disease caused by mutations in the ATP2C1 gene, which encodes the secretory Ca2+/Mn2+-ATPase (SPCA1) pump in the Golgi apparatus. Although ATP2C1 is ubiquitously expressed in the body, possible extracutaneous manifestations of HHD are unknown. However, dysfunction of the Golgi apparatus not specifically coupled to ATP2C1 has been associated with heart disease.

Objective

To investigate the association between HHD and common heart disease in a Swedish, population-based cohort.

Methods

We conducted a population-based cohort study based on a linkage of Swedish nationwide registers to investigate the relationship between HHD and heart disease. We have been granted ethical approval from the Swedish Ethical Review Authority to conduct this study. The patients in this manuscript have given written informed consent to the publication of their case details. A total of 342 individuals with an ICD-10 diagnosis of HHD (Q82.8E) were identified and matched with randomly selected comparison individuals without HHD on a 1:100 ratio. Furthermore, in a separate clinical cohort we matched 23 HHD patients for age, sex, and BMI with control subjects to examine electrocardiogram parameters, electrolytes, and cardiovascular biomarkers.

Results

Compared with individuals without HHD, individuals with HHD had an excess risk of arrhythmia (RR 1.4, CI 1.0–2.0), whereas no increased risks of myocardial infarction (RR 1.1, CI 0.6–1.7) or heart failure (RR 1.0, CI 0.6–1.6; Table 1) were found. We found no difference in ECG parameters, cardiovascular biomarkers, and electrolytes in the clinical subset.

Conclusion

This study reveals that HHD is associated with an increased risk of arrhythmia and represents the first data of any extracutaneous comorbidity in HHD. Thus, HHD may be a systemic disease. Our findings also shed light on the importance of the Golgi apparatus’ Ca2+/Mn2+ homeostasis in common heart disease.
Metadynamics simulations reveal mechanisms of Na+ and Ca2+ transport in two open states of the channelrhodopsin chimera, C1C2
Authors: Prignano Lindsey A. , Stevens Mark J. , Vanegas Juan M. , Rempe Susan B. , Dempski Robert E.
Published: September 2024

Cation conducting channelrhodopsins (ChRs) are a popular tool used in optogenetics to control the activity of excitable cells and tissues using light. ChRs with altered ion selectivity are in high demand for use in different cell types and for other specialized applications. However, a detailed mechanism of ion permeation in ChRs is not fully resolved. Here, we use complementary experimental and computational methods to uncover the mechanisms of cation transport and valence selectivity through the channelrhodopsin chimera, C1C2, in the high- and low-conducting open states. Electrophysiology measurements identified a single-residue substitution within the central gate, N297D, that increased Ca2+ permeability vs. Na+ by nearly two-fold at peak current, but less so at stationary current. We then developed molecular models of dimeric wild-type C1C2 and N297D mutant channels in both open states and calculated the PMF profiles for Na+ and Ca2+ permeation through each protein using well-tempered/multiple-walker metadynamics. Results of these studies agree well with experimental measurements and demonstrate that the pore entrance on the extracellular side differs from original predictions and is actually located in a gap between helices I and II. Cation transport occurs via a relay mechanism where cations are passed between flexible carboxylate sidechains lining the full length of the pore by sidechain swinging, like a monkey swinging on vines. In the mutant channel, residue D297 enhances Ca2+ permeability by mediating the handoff between the central and cytosolic binding sites via direct coordination and sidechain swinging. We also found that altered cation binding affinities at both the extracellular entrance and central binding sites underly the distinct transport properties of the low-conducting open state. This work significantly advances our understanding of ion selectivity and permeation in cation channelrhodopsins and provides the insights needed for successful development of new ion-selective optogenetic tools.
Cognitive function in pituitary adenoma patients: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Krabbe David , Sunnerhagen Katharina S. , Olsson Daniel S. , Hallén Tobias , Ragnarsson Oskar , Skoglund Thomas , Johannsson Gudmundur
Published: September 2024

Various factors may affect cognition in patients with pituitary adenoma, including size and extension of the tumor, degree of pituitary hormone deficiencies, and treatment of the tumor, most often being transsphenoidal surgery (TSS). The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate cognitive function in patients with clinically significant pituitary adenoma and to identify factors influencing cognition. Sixty-eight patients with pituitary adenoma were included. Of these, 31 patients were evaluated before TSS and 37 patients 12 months following TSS. Cognitive function was evaluated by using the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status. Patients had lower mean scores on cognitive assessment compared to age-adjusted normative data. Variability in cognition, analyzed by linear regression analysis, was explained by sex, educational level, and self-perceived fatigue, but not by pituitary hormone deficiencies, diabetes insipidus, or surgical treatment. Our results are in line with previous findings, namely that pituitary adenoma affects cognition. To better evaluate the factors affecting cognition, longitudinal studies are recommended. Such studies would allow for within-individual comparisons, effectively controlling for the considerable influence of sex and education on test results.
Evaluating the risk of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection with the Omicron or Delta variant in Wales, UK
Authors: Postans Mark , Pacchiarini Nicole , Song Jiao , Cottrell Simon , Williams Catie , Beazer Andrew , Moore Catherine , Connor Thomas R. , Williams Christopher
Published: September 2024

Recent studies suggest an increased risk of reinfection with the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant compared with previous variants, potentially due to an increased ability to escape immunity specific to older variants, high antigenic divergence of Omicron from earlier virus variants as well as its altered cell entry pathway. The present study sought to investigate epidemiological evidence for differential SARS-CoV-2 reinfection intervals and incidence rates for the Delta versus Omicron variants within Wales. Reinfections in Wales up to February 2022 were defined using genotyping and whole genome sequencing. The median inter-infection intervals for Delta and Omicron were 226 and 192 days, respectively. An incidence rate ratio of 2.17 for reinfection with Omicron compared to Delta was estimated using a conditional Poisson model, which accounted for several factors including sample collection date, age group, area of residence, vaccination and travel status. These findings are consistent with an increased risk of reinfection with the Omicron variant, and highlight the value of monitoring emerging variants that have the potential for causing further waves of cases.
Strategies found not to be suitable for stabilizing high steroid hydroxylation activities of CYP450 BM3-based whole-cell biocatalysts
Authors: Bertelmann Carolin , Bühler Bruno
Published: September 2024

The implementation of biocatalytic steroid hydroxylation processes plays a crucial role in the pharmaceutical industry due to a plethora of medicative effects of hydroxylated steroid derivatives and their crucial role in drug approval processes. Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYP450s) typically constitute the key enzymes catalyzing these reactions, but commonly entail drawbacks such as poor catalytic rates and the dependency on additional redox proteins for electron transfer from NAD(P)H to the active site. Recently, these bottlenecks were overcome by equipping Escherichia coli cells with highly active variants of the self-sufficient single-component CYP450 BM3 together with hydrophobic outer membrane proteins facilitating cellular steroid uptake. The combination of the BM3 variant KSA14m and the outer membrane pore AlkL enabled exceptionally high testosterone hydroxylation rates of up to 45 U gCDW-1 for resting (i.e., living but non-growing) cells. However, a rapid loss of specific activity heavily compromised final product titers and overall space-time yields. In this study, several stabilization strategies were evaluated on enzyme-, cell-, and reaction level. However, neither changes in biocatalyst configuration nor variation of cultivation media, expression systems, or inducer concentrations led to considerable improvement. This qualified the so-far used genetic construct pETM11-ksa14m-alkL, M9 medium, and the resting-cell state as the best options enabling comparatively efficient activity along with fast growth prior to biotransformation. In summary, we report several approaches not enabling a stabilization of the high testosterone hydroxylation rates, providing vital guidance for researchers tackling similar CYP450 stability issues. A comparison with more stable natively steroid-hydroxylating CYP106A2 and CYP154C5 in equivalent setups further highlighted the high potential of the investigated CYP450 BM3-based whole-cell biocatalysts. The immense and continuously developing repertoire of enzyme engineering strategies provides promising options to stabilize the highly active biocatalysts.
Elevated hydrostatic pressure disturbs expression of growth factors in human renal epithelial cells
Authors: Yan Chen , Xiao Jie , Peng Yong-Hua , Li Tao-Sheng
Published: September 2024

Obstructive uropathy is a common kidney disease caused by elevated hydrostatic pressure (HP), but relevant molecular and cellular mechanisms have not yet been well understood. In this study, we ex vivo investigated the effects of elevated HP on human renal epithelial cells (HREpCs). Primary HREpCs were subjected to 100 cmH2O HP for 8 or 48 h. Then, the cells were cultured without HP stimulation for another 24 h or 72 h. Cell morphology showed almost no change after 8h HP treatment, but exhibited reversible elongation after 48h HP treatment. HP treatment for 8 h increased the expression of TGFB1 and VEGFA but decreased the expression of CSF2 and TGFB2. On the other hand, HP treatment for 48 h downregulated the expression of CSF2, TGFB2, PDGFB, VEGFA, and VEGFB, while upregulated the expression of TGFB3. Interestingly, all changes induced by 48 h HP treatment were detected more severe compared to 8 h HP treatment. In conclusion, elongated ex vivo HP loading to renal epithelial cells induces reversible changes on cell morphology and disturbs the expression of several growth factors, which provides novel mechanistic insight on elevated HP-caused kidney injury such as obstructive uropathy.
Regrowth dynamics and morpho-physiological characteristics of Plantago lanceolata under different defoliation frequencies and intensities
Authors: Merino Verónica M. , Aguilar René , Piña Luis F. , Garriga Miguel , Ostria-Gallardo Enrique , López M. Dolores , Noriega Felipe , Campos Jorge , Navarrete Soledad , Rivero M. Jordana
Published: September 2024

Traditional pastures in temperate regions face limitations such as reduced growth and nutritional quality during the summer season. Plantain (P. lanceolata L.) offers advantages like increased yield and decreased nitrogen losses from grazing ruminants. Effective grazing management is essential for pasture health, and defoliation frequency and intensity play a pivotal role. This study aimed to evaluate plantain’s regrowth, yield, and morpho-physiological and chemical responses under different defoliation frequencies and intensities, with the goal of enhancing its management in pastures. The study was conducted in pots within a controlled-environment growth chamber, examining the impact of three defoliation frequencies (based on extended leaf length: 15, 25 and 35 cm) and two defoliation intensities (5 and 8 cm of residual heights) with four replicates (24 pots as experimental units). The variables of interest were morphological characteristics, dry matter (DM) accumulation, herbage chemical composition, growth rate traits, and photosynthetic parameters. Defoliation frequency affected plantain’s growth and nutritional composition. More frequent cuts (15 cm) resulted in lower DM yield per cut and lower stem content, while less frequent cuts (35 cm) produced higher values. Defoliation intensity influenced the proportion of leaves and stems in the total DM, with 5 cm cuts favoring leaves. Nutrient content was also affected by defoliation frequency, with less frequent cuts (35 cm) showing lower crude protein concentration and metabolizable energy content but higher neutral detergent fiber and water-soluble carbohydrate concentration. Plantain’s growth rate variables were mainly influenced by defoliation frequency, with less frequent cuts promoting faster leaf appearance and growth of new leaves. The basal fluorescence variables and chlorophyll content were affected by cutting frequency, being highest when cut less frequently (35 cm), while no differences were found in the actual quantum efficiency among different defoliation frequencies and intensities. The fraction of light dedicated to non-photochemical quenching was highest when cut less frequently and more intensively. Overall, defoliation at 25 cm of extended leaf length balanced plantain forage quality and regrowth capacity.
In their own words: Perspectives of IPV survivors on obtaining support within the healthcare system
Authors: Hargrave Anita S. , Dawson-Rose Carol , Schillinger Dean , Ng Fiona , Valdez Jessica , Rodriguez Amanda , Cuca Yvette P. , Bakken E. Hayes , Kimberg Leigh
Published: September 2024

Background

Almost half of all women in the US experience intimate partner violence (IPV) in their lifetime. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends IPV screening paired with intervention for women of reproductive age. We aim to understand clinical practices and policies that are beneficial, detrimental, or insufficient to support survivors of IPV in a safety-net healthcare system.

Methods

We sampled 45 women who were 18–64 years old, had experienced IPV within the prior year and were patients in the San Francisco Health Network. We conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews to elicit their perspectives on disclosing IPV and obtaining support within the healthcare system. We analyzed our data using thematic analysis and grounded theory practices informed by ecological systems theory.

Findings

We identified four themes regarding factors that impeded or facilitated discussing and addressing IPV across interpersonal and systemic levels relating to relationship-building, respect, autonomy and resources. (1) Interpersonal barriers included insufficient attention to relationship-building, lack of respect or concern for survivor circumstances, and feeling pressured to disclose IPV or to comply with clinicians’ recommended interventions. (2) Interpersonal facilitators consisted of patient-centered IPV inquiry, attentive listening, strength-based counseling and transparency regarding confidentiality. (3) Systemic barriers such as visit time limitations, clinician turn-over and feared loss of autonomy from involvement of governmental systems leading to separation from children or harm to partners, negatively affected interpersonal dynamics. (4) Systemic facilitators involved provision of resources through IPV universal education, on-site access to IPV services, and community partnerships.

Conclusions

Women experiencing IPV in our study reported that relationship-building, respect, autonomy, and IPV-related resources were essential components to providing support, promoting safety, and enabling healing in the healthcare setting. Successful trauma-informed transformation of healthcare systems must optimize interpersonal and systemic factors that improve survivor wellbeing while eliminating barriers.
Efficient data labeling strategies for automated muscle segmentation in lower leg MRIs of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease patients
Authors: Lee Seung-Ah , Kim Hyun Su , Yang Ehwa , Yoon Young Cheol , Lee Ji Hyun , Choi Byung-Ok , Kim Jae-Hun
Published: September 2024

We aimed to develop efficient data labeling strategies for ground truth segmentation in lower-leg magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and to develop an automated muscle segmentation model using different labeling approaches. The impact of using unlabeled data on model performance was further examined. Using axial T1-weighted MRIs of 120 patients with CMT (60 each with mild and severe intramuscular fat infiltration), we compared the performance of segmentation models obtained using several different labeling strategies. The effect of leveraging unlabeled data on segmentation performance was evaluated by comparing the performances of few-supervised, semi-supervised (mean teacher model), and fully-supervised learning models. We employed a 2D U-Net architecture and assessed its performance by comparing the average Dice coefficients (ADC) using paired t-tests with Bonferroni correction. Among few-supervised models utilizing 10% labeled data, labeling three slices (the uppermost, central, and lowermost slices) per subject exhibited a significantly higher ADC (90.84±3.46%) compared with other strategies using a single image slice per subject (uppermost, 87.79±4.41%; central, 89.42±4.07%; lowermost, 89.29±4.71%, p < 0.0001) or all slices per subject (85.97±9.82%, p < 0.0001). Moreover, semi-supervised learning significantly enhanced the segmentation performance. The semi-supervised model using the three-slices strategy showed the highest segmentation performance (91.03±3.67%) among 10% labeled set models. Fully-supervised model showed an ADC of 91.39±3.76. A three-slice-based labeling strategy for ground truth segmentation is the most efficient method for developing automated muscle segmentation models of CMT lower leg MRI. Additionally, semi-supervised learning with unlabeled data significantly enhances segmentation performance.
Cyclic AMP is a global virulence regulator governing inter and intrabacterial signalling in Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Harkova Lyuboslava G. , de Dios Rubén , Rubio-Valle Alejandro , Pérez-Pulido Antonio J. , McCarthy Ronan R.
Published: September 2024

Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic nosocomial pathogen with high morbidity and mortality rates. Current treatment options for this pathogen are limited due to its increasing resistance to last-resort antibiotics. Despite A. baumannii’s leading position in the World Health Organisations priority pathogens list, little is known about its virulence regulation. Through a high-throughput screening approach to identify novel biofilm regulators, we identified a previously uncharacterised predicted adenylate cyclase (AC), CavA, as a central regulator of this phenotype. cAMP is a crucial mediator of various aspects of bacterial physiology in other species but information about its role in A. baumannii is limited. We confirm that CavA AC is functional and synthesizes cAMP in A. baumannii. Using dRNA-seq, we verify that CavA is a negative biofilm formation regulator affecting Csu pili and exopolysaccharide production. We demonstrate for the first time that in A. baumannii, cAMP is atop of a hierarchical signalling cascade controlling inter- and intrabacterial signalling by modulating quorum sensing and cyclic di-GMP systems, ultimately governing virulence in vivo and adaptive antibiotic resistance. In contrast to the well-established paradigm in other bacteria where cAMP and cyclic di-GMP levels are inversely regulated, we uncover that the levels of these second messengers are directly proportional in A. baumannii. Overall, this study uncovers the central role of CavA and cAMP in the pathogenic success of A. baumannii and highlights this signalling cascade as a high potential target for novel therapeutic development.
Editorial
Authors: Linhares J M Aroso , Margarida Gaudêncio Ana
Published: September 2024

This editorial identifies the thematic core of the third volume of Undecidabilities and Law, which, concerning the challenges (and claims) of juridically relevant Justice, confronts two different (irreducible) assimilation modes: translation and counter-storytelling. It also considers the specificity of this volume, which, under the sign of exceptionality, departs from some of the rules that support the other volumes.
Introductory Note
Authors: Boyd White James
Published: September 2024

This Introductory Note highlights the thematic core of “Justice as Translation and Counter-storytelling”, whilst exploring the corresponding “sophisticators” (translation and narrative). Even though acknowledging their differences, it concludes that they should be understood as creative forms of life (ways of challenging literal-mindedness), that are simultaneously necessary and impossible.
Law as Literature in International Law
Authors: Pereira de Melo Maria João
Published: September 2024

We propose to reflect on the importance of narrative and language in international law as active elements of creation. To this end, we will rely on the law as literature methodological approach, demonstrating that importance in the light of the creation of binding force in jus cogens norms.
The Reconstitution Of Narratives By The Judge
Authors: Moreira Antunes do Nascimento Isabela
Published: September 2024

The judiciary is not a charity house. But it can’t be a lottery house either. When dealing with an applied social science (which is not – and cannot be - cartesian) the human factor will inevitably make a difference in the equation because people perceive the same situation differently, according to their own filters. The law, doctrine and jurisprudence could offer limits to this cognitive process, but end up being used (manipulated) later, just to justify what the subject-judge already wanted to do, simply deciding according to his own conscience. The ideal of justice is so discredited that the most modern courses revolve around persuasion (rhetoric) in court precisely because “in every head, a different sentence”. That increase the adherents to the empire of the law. But as history has taught, extremes are dangerous. On the one hand, narcissistic judges, who simply do what they want, when they want. On the other hand, judges who do not print theiridentity in the decision, using only the law, the process in its rawness, forgetting the human factor. The judge can understand what cannot be written: emotions. But he is also a human being, so it is important that he perceives his own to remain in the place of external third party in the concrete realization of law. The intention, therefore, is to reverse the procedure so that it is heeded to legislative changes and contemporary jurisprudence, which should be followed by hierarchy, rather than anchoring itself in “diary-sentences” or “parchment-sentences”.Therefore, practical rationality, by encouraging the judge to fit the law (previously studied) to the concrete case (analyzed later) inspires (self)control (emotionally) and allows adequate fundamentation. It is possible and urgent because people under jurisdiction deserves some legal certainty.
Dante’s Political Narratives
Authors: Vespaziani Alberto
Published: September 2024

This contribution investigates Dante’s work by putting it under the lens of law and the legal literature that has taken an interest in his reflections. The essay is divided into three parts: the first part discusses some legal writing on Dante’s work; in the second part, I analyze some passages of the Monarchia in which Dante’s imperial vision emerges; in the third part, I discuss the three political cantos of the Commedia in which Dante deals with the municipal, national and universal dimensions of political action. I will argue that the political Dante does not reach the intellectual heights of Dante the poet, and that his conceptions of politics and law are contradictory and remain within the context of medieval culture.
Effectiveness of neurofeedback-based cognitive training in older adults
Authors: Wiłkość-Dębczyńska Monika , Zając-Lamparska Ludmiła , Liberacka-Dwojak Magdalena , Kukuła Daria , Werońska Anna
Published: September 2024

The increasing aging of the global population requires strategies that address age-related cognitive decline. This study investigated the impact of neurofeedback (NF) training on cognitive performance in healthy older adults, those with mild cognitive impairments (MCI), and those with mild dementia (MD). Participants engaged in bi-weekly NeuroPlay training over 4 weeks, targeting theta/alpha brainwave frequencies. The results revealed intriguing distinctions: ACE-III scores significantly improved in the MCI (p < 0.001) and MD (p =0.004) groups, signifying robust enhancements in attention, memory, and language. MCI participants displayed notable gains in digit span tests (p =0.014) and participants’ Continuous Performance Task results indicated fewer errors (p =0.003). Meanwhile, reaction times in the Simple Reaction Time task increased (p =0.047) for healthy participants. These findings underscore NF's potential to enhance cognitive functions, particularly in attention-related tasks, suggesting its efficacy as an intervention tool for age-related cognitive decline.
Juicios metacognitivos en los procesos de aprendizaje en la educación superior: una revisión sistemática 2018-2023
Authors: Zapata Zapata Adiela , Vesga Bravo Grace Judith , Puente Ferreras Aníbal , Alvarado Izquierdo Jesús María
Published: September 2024

Introducción: Los juicios metacognitivos han sido objeto de estudio en el campo de la metacognición en las últimas décadas, puesto que analizan las creencias que los estudiantes tienen sobre su desempeño académico, con el fin de contribuir a la adaptación de estrategias para mejorar la autonomía y el criterio de los aprendices. Objetivo: Identificar los juicios metacognitivos que se emplean con mayor frecuencia en estudiantes universitarios a partir de una revisión sistemática realizada entre los años 2018 y 2023. Método: La metodología se basó en la Declaración Prisma, y la búsqueda se llevó a cabo en las bases de datos de Science Direct, Scopus y Springer. Se aplicaron criterios de depuración y se analizaron 61 artículos. Resultados: Se encontró que los juicios metacognitivos que se aplican con mayor regularidad son los juicios predictivos y postdictivos, mientras que los juicios concurrentes son los menos utilizados. Además, se observó que los juicios postdictivos presentan una mayor precisión. Discusión y conclusiones: Los resultados sugieren que, para lograr una alta calibración entre los juicios metacognitivos y los resultados académicos reales, es necesario considerar distintas categorías de juicios metacognitivos que contribuyan a la construcción de un sistema integral. Esto proporcionaría al estudiante una variedad de herramientas que pueda implementar de manera óptima en sus procesos de aprendizaje.
Carica papaya-Derived Carbon Nanodots for the Detection of Fe (III) Ions
Authors: Prasanth Gopinath , Madhu Gattumane Motappa , Kottam Nagaraju , Prasannakumaran Nair Smrithi Sailaja
Published: September 2024

Carbon dots (CDs) possess distinctive optical and electronic properties as well as dimensions smaller than 10 nm, making them a unique category of carbon-based nanomaterials. They have been widely utilized across various domains including sensors, photocatalysis, biomedicine, and optoelectronics. This study investigates the use of a one-step hydrothermal synthetic approach to produce nanocarbon dots derived from Carica papaya seeds. Through the application of sophisticated characterization methods, the structural properties of the carbon nanoparticles were verified. These techniques included UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). The photoluminescence emission of carbon dots (CDs) has been found to depend on excitation, as determined by photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. This study has explored the interaction between various metal ions and the photoluminescent properties of CDs, revealing a particularly noteworthy interaction with Fe (III) ions. The Stern-Volmer equation is utilized to examine the extinction mechanism linked with the sensing capability of carbon dots, resulting in the establishment of a recognition threshold of 0.36 μM. The existence of surface functional groups, which enable the formation of complexes with Fe (III) ions is a primary factor contributing to the sensing capabilities observed. This paper explores the fabrication and advancement of environmentally friendly sensor systems for detecting metal ions in biomedical and environmental contexts.
Implikasi Etika dalam Fungsi-Fungsi Bisnis Islam
Authors: Muhammad Muhammad
Published: September 2024

Bisnis adalah suatu sistem yang terbuka. Hal ini berarti bahwa nilai-nilai yang dianut oleh pelaku bisnis akan mempengaruhi suatu bisnis dijalankan. Sebagai suatu sistem bisnis mengandung fungsi-fungsi yang satu dengan yang lainnya saling mempengaruhi. Pengaruh masing-masing fungsi tersebut juga ditentukan oleh nilai yang dipegang oleh pelaku dan pelaksana fungsi bisnis tersebut. Oleh karena itu, pelaku bisnis muslim hendaknya memiliki kerangka etika bisnis yang kuat, sehingga dapat mengantarkan aktivitas bisnis yang nyaman dan berkah. Aktivitas bisnis akan terlihat pada siap tidaknya fungsi-fungsi bisnis berjalan, sehingga dapat menghilangkan masalah dalam sistem bisnis itu sendiri.
ACFTA (ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement) dalam Perspektif Ekonomi Islam
Authors: Raya Fitri
Published: September 2024

Abstrak: Seiring dengan gerakan Islamzation of Knowladge, muncullah konsep ekonomi Islam di tengah konstelasi pemikiran ekonomi. Boleh dikatakan ekonomi Islam merupakan bentuk evolusi atas teori ekonomi neo-klasik. Selain itu, ekonomi Islam mucul sebagai refleksi atas ke- kaffah-an keislaman seseorang. Pemikiran ini muncul sebagai tuntutan atas keyakinan seorang Muslim terhadap komprehensifitas ajaran Islam. Kehadiran ACFTA sebagai bentuk konstlesai pemikiran yang dituangkan dalam bentuk peraturan yang sudah ditetapkan oleh negara-negara yang include di dalamnya. Sebagai way of life, Islam tidak hanya mengajarkan bagaimana membangun sosok pribadi yang shaleh, namun juga memberikan rujukan guna membangun keshalehan sosial, ekonomi dan lain- lain.
Perkembangan sistem perekonomian global merupakan hal yang sangat baik bagi kemajuan sistem perekonomian setiap negara. Indonesia merupakan salah satu negara yang terkontaminasi dengan perkem- bangan perekonomian global dengan dibukanya perdagangan bebas dalam kerangka diberlakukannya ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA). Dalam kerangka kemajuan ekonomi, ACFTA merupakan suatu kebijakan yang sangat baik, jika diimbangi dengan persiapan yang baik juga. Peluang dan kesempatan seperti ini sepatutnya dapat dimanfaatkan oleh pengusaha-pengusaha Indonesia. Fakta menunjukkan dalam penerapan ACFTA banyak pihak yang dirugikan terutama sektor mikro. Artikel ini akan membahas tentang tinjauan ekonomi Islam terhadap pemberlakuan ACFTA serta kesiapan SDM dalam menghadapi ACFTA. agar dengan berlakunya ACFTA ini dapat membawa kontribusi yang positif bagi semua pihak.
Aplikasi Produk Asuransi Unit Link Syariah dan Aspek Hukumnya
Authors: Yushadeni Yushadeni
Published: September 2024

Boomingnya reksadana atau unit trust di pasar modal mengawali perkembangan asuransi jiwa unit link, sertarendahnya bunga deposito menjadikan unit link sebagai alternatif investasi yang lebih menarik. Produk asuransi unit link dirancang dengan mengkaitkan (linked) produk asuransi jiwa dengan instrumen investasi. Asuransi unit link merupakan polis individu yang memberikan proteksi asuransi jiwa, ditambah dengan unsur investasi dengan menggunakan harga unit, di mana setiap saat nilainya bervariasi sesuai dengan nilai aset investasi tersebut. Tujuan adanya unit link adalah sebagai produk alternatif yang memberikan keleluasaan bagi para pemegang polis untuk mengakses secara langsung keuntungan investasinya. Unit link merupakan produk inovatif dan kreatif dalam bisnis asuransi jiwa, karena produk ini memberikan manfaat ganda sebagai proteksi sekaligus investasi yang tidak didapatkan pada jenis asuransi yang lain seperti asuransi kerugian.
Dengan berkembangnya produk unit link ini, perusahaan asuransi syari'ah pun mulai menawarkan produk unit link. Secara prinsip unit link syariah tidak jauh berbeda dengan unit link perusahaan asuransi konvensional. Perbedaannya terletak pada usaha saling melindungi dan tolong menolong di antara sejumlah orang atau pihak melalui investasi dalam bentuk aset. serta pola pengembalian untuk menghadapi risiko tertentu melalui akad (perikatan) yang sesuai dengan syari'ah.
Mini nutritional assessment as a screening tool for muscle-invasive bladder cancer patients: A cross-sectional study in a high-volume center
Authors: da Silva Aldrin Eder , Leite Narjara Pereira , Smaidi Khalil , Hidaka Alexandre Kyoshi , Ehrenfreund Rafael , Korkes Fernando
Published: September 2024

Background: Bladder cancer (BC) is an aggressive disease that begins in the cells lining the bladder, which grows abnormally due to mutations. One of the aggravating factors during treatment is the nutritional risk, contributing to increased morbidity and mortality. Nutritional screening can be extremely important for these patients since the nutritional condition can deteriorate during treatment and due to the progression of the disease. Objectives: This cross-sectional observational study aimed to compare the results of using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) nutritional screening tool obtained by urologists and nutritionists at our center. Methods: The target audience were adult patients diagnosed with BC. They were followed up at the urology outpatient clinic and were asked to answer the questions in the short version of MAN during a nutritional screening conducted by a medical team, and later answer the questions contained in the full version of the instrument during a nutritional consultation by nutritionists. The data were analyzed and organized by employing a RedCap database. Statistical analysis of data was performed using the SPSS software package. For comparison between continuous variables, the Mann–Whitney U-test and Student’s t-test were utilized. For analyses of the categorical variables, the Wilcoxon Matched Pairs test and the Cohen Kappa test were used. A significance level of 5% (P ≤ 0.05) with a confidence level of 95% was set for all statistical tests. Results: A total of 46 patients were evaluated. The medical team identified 18 (39.1%) with normal nutritional status, while the nutrition team identified 13 (28.3%). In comparison, the use of the full version of the MNA administered by the nutrition team found that 32 (69.6%) patients were at nutritional risk. Individual questions of the short-version MNA were also compared between the two groups and the Wilcoxon Matched Pairs test was performed. The short-version MNA was found to be an excellent screening tool. When applied by a urologist, it yielded a sensitivity of 87.5% (P = 0.87) and a sensitivity of 93.7% (P = 0.76) when used by the nutritionist. A raw match rate was 71.7% achieved by both questionnaires, and the Cohen Kappa test showed that the agreement was moderate, with an agreement rate of 77.9% (k = 0.50). Conclusion: The application of short-version MNA has a high sensitivity. However, the full-version MNA is necessary for nutritional screening to improve the sensitivity of the assessment and to serve as a guide for nutritionists and the multidisciplinary care team.
The development and application of cleavage under targets and tagmentation (CUT&Tag) technology
Authors: Xiong Chaoyang , Wang Jiyin , Li Xinglin , Li Guohong , Wang Xi
Published: September 2024

The regulation of chromatin structure and gene transcription in eukaryotic cells is an involved process mediated by histone modifications, chromatin-binding proteins, and transcription factors. Studying the distribution of histone modifications and transcription factors at the whole-genome level is crucial for understanding the mechanisms of gene transcription. Cleavage under targets and tagmentation (CUT&Tag) is a novel chromatin analysis method that has rapidly gained popularity in the field of epigenetics since its introduction. It has been widely used for the detection of chromatin modifications and transcription factors in different species. Furthermore, CUT&Tag has also been adapted to simultaneously detect multiple epigenetic modifications. Its integration with single-cell transcriptome, and spatial transcriptome analysis allows for a comprehensive examination of cell fate and functions. In this review, we aimed to provide an overview of the recent developments and applications of CUT&Tag and its derivatives, highlighting their significance in advancing our understanding of epigenetic regulation.
Inteligencia artificial (IA) en las escuelas: una revisión sistemática (2019-2023)
Authors: Bustamante Bula Robin , Camacho Bonilla Aureliano
Published: September 2024

La inteligencia artificial (IA) ha surgido como una herramienta innovadora, con programas como ChatGPT, Gemini, entre otros, con un gran potencial para transformar la educación, y para adaptarse a plataformas digitales existentes y revolucionando los procesos de enseñanza. Este artículo tiene el objetivo de proporcionar una visión amplia y equilibrada del panorama actual de la IA en las escuelas, para lo cual se realizó una revisión sistemática, mediante la metodología Prisma (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses), a partir de la cual se encontraron 52 artículos indexados en la base de datos Scopus durante el periodo de 2019 a 2023, que abordaban la temática de la IA en las escuelas. Según los resultados, hay cuatro áreas temáticas clave que destacan el impacto de la IA: (a) procesos de enseñanza; (b) pedagogía, currículo y formación docente; (c) gestión educativa, y (d) implicaciones éticas. Se concluyó que esta tecnología presenta un gran potencial para transformar la educación, por medio de herramientas innovadoras; mejorar la calidad del aprendizaje; optimizar la gestión educativa, y abordar desafíos como la personalización de la enseñanza y la evaluación del rendimiento. No obstante, su implementación debe ser planificada meticulosamente, y enmarcada en principios éticos sólidos y acompañada de un proceso de formación docente adecuado para garantizar el uso responsable y efectivo de esta tecnología en el ámbito educativo.
Uma experiência da engenharia didática com as identidades de Fibonacci com o aporte do software GeoGebra
Authors: Pinheiro Carla Patrícia Souza Rodrigues , Alves Francisco Régis Vieria , Menezes Daniel Brandão Menezes
Published: September 2024

Diante das pesquisas sobre as sequências classificadas como recorrências lineares, oriundas do recorte de investigação de uma dissertação de Mestrado em desenvolvimento, percebeu-se a importância da sequência de Fibonacci com a criação de novos estudos e, por consequência, novos padrões e identidades. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi desenvolver a sequência de Fibonacci em uma prática de ensino, abordando suas visualizações por meio do software GeoGebra, norteada pela Teoria das Situações Didáticas e pela Engenharia Didática, amparando a prática do professor sobre seu estudo. Sendo duas sequências didáticas aplicadas no Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciências e Tecnologia do Ceará com quatro estudantes no curso de Licenciatura em Matemática, na disciplina História da Matemática, na qual ocorreu a coleta de dados. Por fim, o resultado alcançado que foi uma prática de ensino com o aporte do GeoGebra, com base nas dialéticas da Teoria das Situações Didáticas, identificando que o uso deste software durante as situações didáticas promoveu uma prática de ensino para o estudo das identidades de Fibonacci, permitindo uma melhor compreensão do assunto proposto.
Editorial
Authors: Wohlmuth Petr
Published: September 2024

DTK 1/2024 Editorial
Big history
Authors: Horský Jan , Havelka Miloš
Published: September 2024

Koncepce big history zde podrobujeme kritice z konstruktivistické perspektivy a z pohledu historickovědního nominalismu. Ukazujeme, že pokud by big history směřovala k tomu, aby byla jen jakousi scientifikací Hegelovy filosofie dějin, nebyla by epistemologicky produktivní. Bude-li big history ale rozvíjena na půdě konstruktivistické metodologie dějepisectví, může být vhodným korektivem přílišné drobnohlednosti některých směrů současného dějepisectví. Svoji argumentaci opíráme o rozbor původu problému celistvosti komplexity dějin v debatách mezi filosofií dějin a rodící se historickou vědou v 19. století, dále například o vymezení vztahu mezi big history, histoire totale a velkými procesuálními dějinami. Velké dějinné koncepce se nám jeví jako vždy kulturně zbarvené a zároveň otevřenou otázkou zůstává míra jejich možné hodnotové neutrality.
EGLĖ RINDZEVIČIŪTĖ, The Will to Predict: Orchestrating the Future through Science, Ithaca and London 2023, Cornell University Press, 306 p., ISBN 9781501769771
Authors: Studený Luboš
Published: September 2024

Recenze
The Development and Adjustment of Road and Rail Transportation Network in Poland in 1918-2000
Authors: Kaliński Janusz
Published: September 2024

The period of 123 years of political non-existence of the state of Poland resulted in deep disintegration of the Polish territories under the rule of three neighboring countries that made every effort to blur the old frontier lines, drawing new ones which severed centuries-long economic relations. The unfavorable political circumstances had their influence on transporta- tion which in the 19th century underwent fast developement and modernization.
EU Contract Case Law, April–June 2024
Authors: Esposito Fabrizio , de Almeida Lucila , Grimolizzi Antonia
Published: September 2024

This article provides an overview of the most relevant cases decided by the Court of Justice of the European Union concerning contract law. The present issue covers the period between the beginning of April 2024 and the end of June 2024. Out of a total of 231 judgments decided in this period, 26 had a contract law dimension.