bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pequeños roedores, grandes depredadores: ratones carnívoros
Authors: Rosas Zaragoza Rubén , Hernández Canchola Giovani
Published: April 2024

¿Qué comen los ratones? ¿Acaso pensaste en los ratones como mamíferos tímidos que van por los senderos y rincones en busca de granos y semillas? Si bien esto es parcialmente cierto, con más de 2200 especies, el grupo de las ratas y ratones es muy diverso, y sus hábitos y roles dentro de los ecosistemas también lo son.
Physical activity and life-limiting conditions
Authors: Sheill Gráinne , Afolabi Jide , McMahon Margaret , Crowley Jonathon , Guinan Emer
Published: April 2024

Background:

Physical activity can assist people with life-limiting conditions to maintain their wellbeing and quality of life.

Aims:

To explore the views of clinical nurse specialists (CNS) working in community palliative care towards the role of physical activity for people with life-limiting conditions, and to explore the physical activity needs of patients with life-limiting conditions identified by CNSs.

Methods:

A purposive sample of CNSs working in community palliative care received an anonymous online survey via email.

Findings:

The response rate was 66% (n=20). Most respondents were practicing for over 20 years (60%, n=12). All respondents (100%, n=20) reported they would like further information on the role of exercise for palliative populations. The main perceived benefit of physical activity was to improve quality of life (95%, n=18). A lack of physical activity guidelines for people living with life-limiting conditions was the most commonly reported barrier to engaging in discussions around physical activity (74%, n=14).

Conclusion:

Further education opportunities on the role of physical activity for patients living with life-limiting conditions are needed.
A Symmetrical Fractal-based Balanced Branch-Line Coupler for Simultaneous Low- and Mid-band 5G Frequencies Applications
Authors: Shallah Abdulkadir B. , Zubir Farid , Rahim Mohamad Kamal A. , Yusoff Zubaida
Published: April 2024

Symmetry is a key factor for Branch-Line Couplers (BLCs) in RF and microwave systems. This balanced approach evenly distributes power between two output ports, aiding impedance matching and reducing unwanted coupling and crosstalk, while increasing input-output isolation. Furthermore, the symmetrical design of BLCs ensures favorable return loss and phase balance, which are essential for phase-sensitive detectors and beamforming. This symmetry also guarantees consistent performance over a wide frequency range, making it suitable for broadband or multi-frequency applications. We present a compact BLC operating in two frequency bands, ideal for 5G sub-6 GHz applications. It uses T-shaped lines with folded lines and stubs in a Minkowski fractal shape, resulting in a size reduction of 90%. The design and simulation were performed using the CST Microwave Studio at 0.7 GHz and 3.5 GHz, achieving a new high frequency band ratio of 5. A prototype on Rogers RT5880 substrate (εr=2.2,h=0.787 mm) was tested to validate the design’s effectiveness, offering potential for modern wireless applications requiring versatile frequency band operation.
Single-mode Condition and Bending Loss Analysis of Ultrafast Laser-inscribed Mid-infrared Waveguides in GeAsSe Chalcogenide Glass
Authors: Yasui Takashi
Published: April 2024

In this study, single-mode conditions and bending losses of optical waveguides based on Ge33As12Se55 chalcogenide glass, commercially known as IG2, for astrophotonic devices in the mid-infrared spectral range are numerically analyzed. The scalar finite-element method was used to analyze single-mode conditions. For the bending-loss analysis, equivalent straight waveguides of bent waveguides were analyzed using the two-dimensional finite-difference beam-propagation method. The results revealed design rules for astrophotonic optical integrated circuits in the mid-infrared spectral range.
Emotionalising hope in times of climate change
Authors: Wettergren Åsa
Published: April 2024

The aim is to theorise hope from a sociology of emotion perspective and propose a general framework for the analysis of discrete emotions – the emotive-cognitive chain of evaluation – that can be applied by analysing different types of hope. Hope is defined as the emotion of future possibility, distinct from self-confidence, faith and trust. Hope as a foreground emotion, subject to emotive-cognitive evaluation, arises in a bad present (target) as an outcome of past failed hopes. The object of hope is future improvement. Given limited agency in fundamentally uncertain circumstances, an external source of hope is located. Background import informs the assessment of the present as bad, what improvement to hope for (object) and the identification of sources. I argue that fear is a companion emotion of hope, and that a reasonable balance between hope and fear can make hope more in tune with real circumstances. Elaborating on the action continuum of hope, I propose that hope is never truly passive and that action itself generates hope. As a collective emotion, hope becomes collectively evaluated and mutually supported in a responsive social context. Responsive hope may, however, also be delusional. Different hope constructs are illustrated, drawing on findings in a project on the post-apocalyptic environmental movement. Theorising hope in the context of the climate crisis highlights the specific quality of hope as an emotion of future possibility and the significance of hope for present action and future object outcomes, its potential for social change and how we collectively create the future.
Entomología cultural
Authors: Hogue Charles L.
Published: April 2024

Enmarcado en el campo de estudio independiente denominado «entomología cultural», este artículo describe la influencia de los insectos (así como otros artrópodos terrestres, como arácnidos y miriápodos) en la literatura, el lenguaje, la música, las artes, la historia interpretativa, la religión y el entretenimiento.
Humanos, hormigas, parásitos: devorar y ser devorado en la Amazonía de Surinam
Authors: Lobach Simon
Published: April 2024

Las poblaciones de la Amazonía surinamesa, sean ellas de origen indígena o africano, han implementado durante siglos diversos sistemas de rotación de cultivos. La presencia de hormigas en sus parcelas era vista como un indicador del agotamiento de la fertilidad. Se consideraba que las hormigas señalaban la necesidad de abrir una nueva parcela en otro lugar, desempeñando así un papel importante para las comunidades. El poder colonial en Surinam, incluso aunque fuera una colonia neerlandesa hacía siglos, era muy poco presente en el espacio amazónico hasta bien entrado el siglo XX. Los biólogos que participaban en las primeras expediciones científicas en el espacio amazónico de la colonia interpretaron la interacción de humanos y hormigas como señal de la naturaleza «parasítica» de ambos. Este ensayo muestra cómo las campañas de erradicación de hormigas, financiadas por el poder colonial desde los años 50, abrieron el camino para grandes proyectos infraestructurales, con poder destructivo muchas veces más significativo que los métodos de cultivo tradicionales.
Descubriendo la ciudad a través de los pokémons
Authors: Maciá Lloret Sergio , Sebastià-Alcaraz Rafael
Published: April 2024

Este artículo se centra en la problemática del aprendizaje del espacio geográfico por parte del alumnado de educación primaria. La propuesta de innovación tiene como objetivo mejorar el aprendizaje del espacio geográfico mediante el uso de herramientas tecnológicas lúdicas en el espacio urbano de la ciudad de Alicante. Las preguntas de investigación son ¿El uso de herramientas digitales como Google Earth y Pokémon Go ayudan a superar los problemas que tiene el alumnado en el espacio geográfico? y ¿Contribuye el espacio urbano de una ciudad al aprendizaje del espacio geográfico? La situación de aprendizaje se centra en cinco categorías del espacio geográfico: orientación, distribución, localización, relaciones espaciales y descentralización. El alumnado, mediante el aprovechamiento didáctico de las herramientas digitales como el juego Pokémon Go y Google Earth, aprende de manera lúdica este contenido didáctico de las Ciencias Sociales. El espacio urbano de Alicante y el uso de las tecnologías permiten superar los problemas del espacio geográfico que tienen los estudiantes.
What is the Matter with Matter? Barad, Butler, and Adorno
Authors: Højme/Hoejme Philip
Published: April 2024

This article aims to read feminist new materialisms (Barad), together with ‘postulated’ linguistic or cultural primacy of Queer Theory (Butler), to show how both are engaged in similar critical-ethical endeavours. The central argument is that the criticism of Barad and new materialisms misses Butler’s materialistic insights due to a narrow interpretation of Butler's alleged social-constructivist position. There is, therefore, a specific focus on where they both make similar ethical appeals. Moreover, the article relies on Adorno's negative dialectic to highlight an interpretation of Barad and Butler as being part of the same dialectical movement, in which materialism and idealism fluctuate in their mutual criticisms, thus continuing the procession towards 'new knowledge' and emancipation, or freedom, through their motions back and forth.
Firms’ takeover in War Times: The incorporation of the Tenerife Island Telephone Network to CTNE in 1938
Authors: Pérez Jiménez Rafael , Quintana Navarro Francisco
Published: April 2024

This paper studies the causes, conditions, and consequences of the process of absorption of the insular telephone network of the Cabildo de Tenerife (RTIT by its Spanish acronym) by the National Telephone Company of Spain (CTNE) in 1938. This process, which was presented as a friendly purchase beneficial to both parties, was actually strongly influenced by the special circumstances of the Civil War. The conditions that contributed to this decision are analysed, such as the financial situation of the Cabildo, the disciplinary processes suffered by the personnel considered disaffected by the military regime, or the situation of the company's management. The efforts made by CTNE to incorporate this network are also analyzed, as well as its consequences for both entities, particularly for the insular institution, which suffered a significant decrease in its revenues.
Shaping an evanescent focus of light for high spatial resolution optogenetic activations in live cells
Authors: Grosjean Marc , Grichine Alexei , Pezet Mylene , Destaing Olivier , Delon Antoine , Wang Irène
Published: April 2024

Confining light illumination in the three dimensions of space is a challenge for various applications. Among these, optogenetic methods developed for live experiments in cell biology would benefit from such a localized illumination as it would improve the spatial resolution of diffusive photosensitive proteins leading to spatially constrained biological responses in specific subcellular organelles. Here, we describe a method to create and move a focused evanescent spot, at the interface between a glass substrate and an aqueous sample, across the field of view of a high numerical aperture microscope objective, using a digital micro-mirror device (DMD). We show that, after correcting the optical aberrations, light is confined within a spot of sub-micron lateral size and ∼100 nm axial depth above the coverslip, resulting in a volume of illumination drastically smaller than the one generated by a standard propagative focus. This evanescent focus is sufficient to induce a more intense and localized recruitment compared to a propagative focus on the optogenetic system CRY2-CIBN, improving the resolution of its pattern of activation.
Implementing supportive supervision in acute humanitarian emergencies: Lessons learned from Afghanistan and Ukraine
Authors: Abujaber Nadeen , Ryan Meg , McBride Kelly A. , Tingsted Blum Pia , Engels Michelle , Didenko Anna , Green Hannah , Peres de Matos Catia Sofia , Whitton Shona , Vallières Frédérique
Published: April 2024

Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) practitioners working in humanitarian contexts are at significant risk of mental health conditions, ultimately hindering the quality and sustainability of their work. Supportive supervision has shown to be effective in improving the wellbeing of MHPSS staff and volunteers and enhancing the effectiveness of MHPSS service delivery. Despite these proven benefits, there is a lack of standardised guidelines to inform supportive supervision within humanitarian contexts. To address this gap, the Trinity Centre for Global Health and the International Federation of the Red Cross Red Crescent Societies’ Reference Centre for Psychocosial Support co-developed the ‘Integrated Model for Supervision’ (IMS) Handbook and supporting tools and led IMS trainings with four humanitarian organisations in Ukraine, Afghanistan, Jordan, and Nigeria from June-August 2021. The subsequent acute humanitarian emergencies that occurred in Afghanistan and Ukraine provided the opportunity to (i) examine the implementation of the IMS in the acute stages of two humanitarian crises and (ii) identify the challenges and lessons learned from this process. This study employed a case study design using semi-structured qualitative interviews with five MHPSS personnel (female: 4; male: 1) who had received training in the IMS and were directly involved in the implementation of supportive supervision using IMS guidelines in either Ukraine or Afghanistan. Results showed that participants identified the key steps needed for the implementation of supportive supervision and reported two significant barriers to implementation including the stress of a humanitarian crisis leading to competing responsibilities and priorities, staff shortages and time constraints as well as the challenge of creating a new supervision structure when none had existed previously. Overall, participants felt that the IMS resulted in improved knowledge, confidence, perceived support, team cohesion, staff wellbeing and was a helpful blueprint to guide the implementation of supportive supervision in humanitarian contexts.
The impact of maternal mood and economic stress during Covid-19 pandemic on infant behaviour: Findings from the cross-sectional UK Covid-19 New Mum Study
Authors: Vázquez-Vázquez Adriana , Rougeaux Emeline , Dib Sarah , Fewtrell Mary , Wells Jonathan C.
Published: April 2024

The UK Covid-19 New Mum Study (cross-sectional study) recorded maternal experience during the early stages of the pandemic. Our previous analyses showed that the pandemic and 2020 national lockdown negatively impacted maternal mental health. Here, we describe changes in infant behaviour (crying and fussiness) reported by the mother during the Covid-19 pandemic compared to beforehand, and test whether these changes are associated with maternal variables (mental health, coping, financial insecurity, income and household support). We included only responses of mothers whose infants were born before the pandemic started (n = 2,031). Composite scores for maternal mental health and coping were obtained using principal components analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to test whether maternal mood and coping and household financial stresses were associated with changes in infant behaviour considered negative (becoming fussier, crying more). Adjusting for confounders, the odds of the infant being fussier and crying more increased by 52% (OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.35;1.72) and 64% (OR = 1.64, 95% CI = 1.38;1.95), respectively, if the mother experienced poorer mental health. If the mother coped better and had more time to focus on her health and interests, the odds of these outcomes decreased by 27% (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.65;0.83) and 23% (OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.65;0.91), respectively. Mothers who reported that, during the lockdown, household chores were more equally divided ‘to a high extent’ had 40% (OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.39;0.92) lower odds of reporting that their babies became fussier. Reporting major/moderate impact on food expenses was associated with the infant crying more (OR = 2.52, 95% CI = 1.16;5.50). Our results are consistent with previous studies showing that maternal wellbeing plays a significant role in children’s behavioural changes during lockdowns. We need strategies to improve mental health and enable women to develop the skills to maintain resilience and reassure their children in challenging times.
Mata Ni Pachedi: Tales of the goddess on textiles from Gujrat, India
Authors: Singh Neetu , Gupta Vanshika
Published: April 2024

India is a land of vibrant culture and heritage. It is home to many diversified craft techniques, most of which have been intensely investigated, recorded, diversified and revived, while a few have languished. This work reflects the origins and process of the Indian craft Mata Ni Pachedi, which means ‘behind the mother goddess’ and is a cloth that constitutes a temple of the goddess. The original creator of Mata Ni Pachedi is the nomadic Vaghari community from Gujarat, the members of which lived along the banks of the Sabarmati River and worshipped the mother goddess in all her forms. The community created these textiles as an ode to the goddess, as sacred wall art pieces that enabled them to worship the goddess when they could not enter temples due to their low caste. Mata Ni Pachedi is a unique textile that has survived modern-day clothing techniques using natural dyes and simple block printing techniques, exploring different forms of gods and goddesses on cloth. Those in the rural community of Gujrat still worship their goddess on a piece of fabric during the festival of Navratri, in March and September. This research aims to investigate and catalogue the evolution, consumption pattern, production process and present-day scenario of the Mata Ni Pachedi craft to aid and sustain its survival and establish its context in contemporary times.
Craft in times of change: Making as a response to crisis
Authors: Niedderer Kristina , Townsend Katherine , Potter Gemma
Published: April 2024

This issue features a range of articles that explore different cultural and environmental forms of sustainability in the face of crises, including climate change and conflict, revealing how craft reconnects and sustains us as humans. Within the theme of Place and cultural identity, Ana Nolasco discusses the significance of Madeira Island embroidery, by drawing upon interviews conducted during a six-year postdoctoral study across the Portuguese-speaking archipelagos. Neetu Singh and Vanshika Gupta’s Craft and Industry Report shines light on the craft of Mata Ni Pachedi, originated by the nomadic Vagahri community of Gujarat. The Remarkable Image, contributed by Prasanna P. and Asokan T., captures a skilled weaver as he contributes to the preservation of handloom crafts in Uraiyur. In ‘Estonian blues’, Julia Valle_Noronha and Piret Puppart explore how the use of natural dyes can positively impact education, society and the environment, through a case study of the ‘Ethno’ course at the Estonian Academy of Arts. Making as a response is prioritised by Tarja Kroger and Sirpa Kokko, who explore the crafting triggered in Finland by the war in Ukraine and the meanings attached to processes and artefacts encompassed within 40 writings. Niina Väänänen and Katja Vilhunen’s analyse surveyed Finnish hobbyists’ views on sustainable crafts, highlighting intangible influences on wellbeing, cultural and environmental responsibility. Valle-Noronha’s review of REPAIR, held at Aalto University, Finland as part of the PLATE2023 conference, reinforces the notion of responsive making within multiple product and service contexts. D Wood reviews the HOME/MAKING conference held at Concordia University in Montréal, Canada in May 2023, while Gemma Potter further explores our relationship with the domestic and familiar through her Portrait of the ceramicist Ingrid Murphy. Michelle Stephens reviews Interwoven: Exploring Materials and Structure (2022) by Maarit Saloainen, and Bogil Lee reviews A Philosophy of Textile: Between Practice and Theory (2020) by Catherine Dormor.
In praise of disquiet
Authors: Shepherd Caitlin Magda
Published: April 2024

‘In praise of disquiet’ situates feminist-memoir writing as an embodied artistic process and argues that this form of writerly practice provides a method to work through affective individual and cultural experiences of ‘snapping’; of breaking out and down; of refusing to carry on. I reflect on my own writing practice as a method of writing myself back together again in the aftermath of a feminist snap moment. I argue that the literary form of feminist-memoir is an empowering and critical tool that can be used to challenge the pervasive myth of living and working to achieve the impossibility of the good life. Feminist-memoir writing as literary method can be used to empower the writing–speaking subject and simultaneously critique and challenge the capitalist social codes, values, systems and institutions that have commingled to create the compounded stresses that so often lead to a snap.
LITERATURA INFANTIL NO PROCESSO DE APROPRIAÇÃO DA LEITURA E DA ESCRITA
Authors: Leidemer Bruxel Carla Maria , Bianchi Vidica
Published: April 2024

A literatura infantil promove a compreensão da realidade por meio da imaginação e contribui com a formação de sujeitos leitores. Este estudo objetiva analisar uma amostra de produções científicas que tratam das contribuições da literatura infantil para a apropriação da leitura e da escrita nos anos iniciais do Ensino Fundamental. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, do tipo bibliográfico, realizada por meio de mapeamento de produções na Biblioteca Digital Brasileira de Teses e Dissertações. A organização dos dados segue os fundamentos da Análise Textual Discursiva (MORAES; GALIAZZI, 2022). O corpus da pesquisa foi constituído por 8 produções científicas, as quais foram analisadas e, deste processo, emergiram as categorias: a) literatura e imaginação; e b) literatura e construção de sentidos. As reflexões suscitadas das categorias dialogam com as concepções de Candido (2012), Smolka (2019), Soares (2008, 2010, 2016) e Vygotsky (2007, 2009). Observou-se que a literatura infantil desenvolve a imaginação e propicia a imersão na cultura escrita. Por meio da literatura infantil é possível desenvolver atividades que contemplam as facetas linguística, interativa e sociocultural. A literatura infantil contribui de forma decisiva com o desenvolvimento de aulas mais dinâmicas e interativas e favorece a construção de sentidos no processo de alfabetização e letramento.
A EDUCAÇÃO INCLUSIVA E SEU SUPORTE TEÓRICO DOCUMENTAL
Authors: Costa-Renders Elizabete Cristina , Angelo Fernanda de Menezes
Published: April 2024

Desde a década de 90 do século passado, as disposições políticas e epistemológicas da educação inclusiva têm provocado as escolas brasileiras no sentido de sua transformação rumo ao ensino mais acessível e equitativo. No entanto, isto tem demandado reformulações nas políticas educacionais neste país. A partir de uma revisão dos principais documentos internacionais e nacionais sobre a inclusão escolar, este artigo objetiva apresentar uma visão panorâmica das disposições do marco regulatório brasileiro, tendo em perspectiva os afetamentos do paradigma educacional da inclusão na proposta de oferecimento da educação especial no sistema regular de ensino. Os resultados desta revisão documental apontaram, primeiro, para o impacto das políticas internacionais de educação inclusiva sobre a construção do arcabouço legal da educação brasileira. Segundo, demonstram uma construção contínua e gradual da nova proposta para a educação de pessoas com deficiência no Brasil.
HISTÓRIA DA EDUCAÇÃO: ACERVOS, REPOSITÓRIOS E CENTROS DE MEMÓRIA
Authors: Bica Alessandro , Alberto Meloni Reginaldo , Pereira da Silva de Avila Virginia
Published: April 2024

Apresentação do Dossiê Temático História da Educação: Acervos, Repositórios e Centros de Memória
CONDIÇÕES DE SAÚDE DE REASSENTADOS RURAIS NA PERSPECTIVA DOS DETERMINANTES SOCIAIS DE SAÚDE
Authors: Rosa Lisiane da , Busato Maria Assunta
Published: April 2024

A saúde não pode ser resumida somente a fatores biológicos, mas sim associada a aspetos culturais, econômicos, sociais, individuais e hereditários. Objetivo: avaliar as condições de saúde e doença dos reassentados no Reassentamento Rural Coletivo localizado no município de Mangueirinha, no estado do Paraná, sob a perspectiva dos Determinantes Sociais de Saúde (DSS). Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, descritiva, exploratória realizada com reassentados, atingidos pela construção da Usina Hidrelétrica Foz do Chapecó. Participaram do estudo 10 famílias reassentadas no município de Mangueirinha no Paraná. Foram analisadas categorias como saúde individual, acesso a serviços de saúde, estilo de vida, relações sociais e na comunidade, condições de vida e trabalho. Ao analisar o processo de saúde e doença das famílias, percebe-se algumas melhorias em suas condições de vida e de saúde.
Marco normativo y regulatorio de la internacionalización del territorio en Colombia
Authors: Mesa Bedoya Juan Camilo , González Parias Carlos Hernán , Zeraoui El Awad Zidane , Londoño Arias José Albán
Published: April 2024

La paradiplomacia, o gestión internacional del territorio, se ha convertido en un medio estratégico para que las ciudades y localidades articulen objetivos internos y nacionales, por medio del relacionamiento y la interacción con actores e instancias a nivel internacional. El margen de maniobra internacional de estos actores subnacionales depende del Estado al cual hacen parte; este, según su naturaleza y ordenamiento territorial, establece las bases normativas para el ejercicio de esta actividad. El artículo analiza los aspectos constitucionales, jurídicos y normativos que posibilitan la gestión internacional por parte de los entes subnacionales en Colombia. Emplea una metodología cualitativa, sustentada en el análisis documental de la Constitución Política de Colombia de 1991, leyes, decretos y demás normas. Concluye que un marco normativo específico y coherente es condición fundamental para el aumento de la actividad internacional por parte de los entes subnacionales y que en Colombia, desde las últimas décadas, se han realizado reformas que han facilitado la gestión internacional de los actores subnacionales, pero aún existen vacíos jurídicosen este aspecto.
The academic TikTok: Academics’ perceptions and uses of Microsoft Flip as a vlogging platform
Authors: Dianati Seb , Spinelli Franciele , Gazmuri Sanhueza Alicia
Published: April 2024

Vlogs, asynchronous video blogs where individuals film themselves to share personal experiences, have been widely used in educational settings. This study explores the integration of Microsoft Flip (Flip), a vlogging platform, in higher education, focusing on its use by academics during a 3-year pilot preceding institution-wide adoption. Grounded in Driscoll and Burner’s (2005) constructivist theory, this research involved interviews with 10 academics from an Australian university, examining their experiences, challenges and recommendations for using Flip. The findings reveal that Flip facilitates innovative activity design, promoting user-friendliness, interaction and self-directed learning. However, privacy concerns, technical difficulties and engagement shortfalls were identified consistent with broader educational technology adoption issues. To minimise these challenges, academics suggested setting clear guidelines on how to use Flip to enhance learning and offered suggestions on how to organise the activities effectively. This research offers insights for academics and learning designers considering Flip in the tertiary educational context, highlighting its potential as a tool for enhancing learning experiences.
 
Implications for practice or policy:

Implement scaffolded teaching in higher education, emphasising peer interaction, sequential assessments, and clear instructions to boost student learning outcomes.
Provide academics with targeted resources and training to effectively integrate vlogs in teaching, addressing technological barriers.
Use vlogging for summative assessments to ensure authentic uptake which also mitigates challenges within identity verification and artificial intelligence misuse in higher education.
Voluntary exercise fails to prevent metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease progression in male rats fed a high‐fat high‐cholesterol diet
Authors: Besqueut‐Rougerie Clément , Chavanelle Vivien , Michaux Arnaud , Otero Yolanda F. , Sirvent Pascal , King James A. , Ennequin Gaël
Published: April 2024

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a major public health issue with a worldwide prevalence of 30%–32%. In animal models, voluntary exercise may be an alternative to forced physical activity, avoiding stress, potential injuries, and being logistically simpler. Here, we assessed voluntary exercise (Vex) in Sprague–Dawley rats fed a high‐fat, high‐cholesterol diet for 18 weeks to induce MASLD. We quantified workload (speed and distance) using exercise wheels and evaluated energy expenditure using calorimetric cages. MASLD progression was assessed using circulating and hepatic biochemical and gene markers of steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. The animals ran an average of 301 km during the study period, with the average daily distance peaking at 4937 m/day during Weeks 3–4 before decreasing to 757 m/day by the end of the study. Rats exposed to Vex showed no improvement in any of the MASLD‐associated features, such as steatosis, inflammation, or fibrosis. Rats exposed to Vex exhibited a higher total energy expenditure during the night phase (+0.35 kcal/h; p = 0.003) without resulting in any effect on body composition. We conclude that, in our experimental conditions, Vex failed to prevent MASLD progression in male Sprague–Dawley rats exposed to a high‐fat high‐cholesterol diet for 18 weeks.
Differential effects of cholecalciferol and calcitriol on muscle proteolysis and oxidative stress in angiotensin II‐induced C2C12 myotube atrophy
Authors: Hirunsai Muthita , Srikuea Ratchakrit
Published: April 2024

Renin–angiotensin system activation contributes to skeletal muscle atrophy in aging individuals with chronic diseases. We aimed to explore the effects of cholecalciferol (VD3) and calcitriol (1,25VD3) on signaling of muscle proteolysis and oxidative stress in myotubes challenged with angiotensin II (AII). The mouse C2C12 myotubes were assigned to vehicle, AII, AII + VD3, AII + 1,25VD3, and AII + losartan groups. The expression levels of muscle‐specific E3 ubiquitin ligase proteins, autophagy‐related proteins, and oxidative stress markers were investigated. We demonstrated the diverse effects of VD3 and 1,25VD3 on AII‐induced myotube atrophy. The myotube diameter was preserved by treatment with 100 nM VD3 and losartan, while 1 and 10 nM 1,25VD3 increased levels of FoxO3a, MuRF1, and atrogin‐1 protein expression in myotubes exposed to AII. Treatment with AII + 10 nM 1,25VD3 resulted in the upregulation of LC3B‐II, LC3B‐II/LC3B‐I, and mature cathepsin L, which are autophagic marker proteins. The p62/SQSTM1 protein was downregulated and vitamin D receptor was upregulated after treatment with AII + 10 nM 1,25VD3. A cellular redox imbalance was observed as AII + 10 nM 1,25VD3‐induced reactive oxygen species and NADPH oxidase‐2 overproduction, and these changes were associated with an inadequate response of antioxidant superoxide dismutase‐1 and catalase proteins. Collectively, these findings provide a translational perspective on the role of vitamin D3 in alleviating muscle atrophy related to high levels of AII.
Preparation and pharmacodynamic evaluation of sodium aescinate solid lipid nanoparticles
Authors: Jiang Xiaohong , Shen Zhongfei , Shen Bin , Sun Ying
Published: April 2024

Recent advancements in nanotechnology have spotlighted lipid nanocarriers as potent mediums for drug delivery, with solid lipid nanocarriers (SLNs) emerging as a key focus due to their unique structural attributes. This research specifically addresses the development and evaluation of the anti-inflammatory properties of SLNs loaded with sodium aescinate. To identify the most effective composition, a detailed pseudo-ternary phase diagram was employed. The production process of these SLNs involved sophisticated high-pressure homogenization techniques. For characterization, the average particle size and zeta potential were precisely measured using advanced laser diffractometry. Additionally, to ascertain the effectiveness of the drug encapsulation, the SLNs underwent a rigorous high-speed centrifugation process, enabling accurate determination of both the encapsulation efficiency and drug-loading capacity. The results of this research reveal that a relatively refined method for determining sodium aescinate content has been established, and a reasonable formulation has been selected for the preparation of sodium aescinate solid lipid nanoparticles. The average particle size was 142.32 ± 0.17 nm, the zeta potential was 1.60 ± 0.32 mV, and the encapsulation rate was 73.93 ± 4.65%. The drug loading was 13.41 ± 1.25%. In conclusion, this method can produce stable solid lipid nanoparticles containing sodium aescinate with uniform particle size, even distribution after encapsulation, and significant anti-inflammatory activity.
Fano varieties with torsion in the third cohomology group
Authors: Ottem John Christian , Rennemo Jørgen Vold , Kollár János
Published: April 2024

We construct first examples of Fano varieties with torsion in their third cohomology group. The examples are constructed as double covers of linear sections of rank loci of symmetric matrices, and can be seen as higher-dimensional analogues of the Artin–Mumford threefold. As an application, we answer a question of Voisin on the coniveau and strong coniveau filtrations of rationally connected varieties.
Language ideologies and speaker categorization: a case study from the U.S. legal system
Authors: Dundon John Terry
Published: April 2024

This study examines a judicial opinion from an appellate court in the District of Columbia, in the United States, using membership categorization analysis. The appeal concerned the absence of an interpreter during the police interrogation of a person suspected of having committed a crime, and whether this absence violated a local law about the provision of interpreters. Deciding this appeal required the court to determine whether the defendant had met a statutory definition of “communication-impaired” persons who are entitled to interpretation services. I argue that, in determining whether the defendant fit into this legal category, the court discursively constructed two linguistic categories that helped support its ultimate disposition of the appeal. These linguistic categories were hierarchically positioned, with English speakers as a default and non-English speakers as somehow deficient or unable to fully function in society. The court’s opinion also contemplated a binary choice of a person being able to communicate in English fully, or not at all, with the possibility that a person might be proficient in English for some purposes, but not others, often presented as a concession or ancillary point. Taken as a whole, the category construction in the opinion suggests an ideology of English monolingualism, which belies a reality of multilingualism, code-shifting, and mixed linguistic identities.
A very rare presentation of mitochondrial elongation factor Tu deficiency-TUFM mutation and literature review
Authors: Gokalp Sabire , Inci Asli , Kilic Ayse , Ozsaydi Ekin , Altun Ayse Nur , Demir Fevzi , Ergin Filiz Basak , Ozbek Mehmet Nuri , Okur Ilyas , Ezgu Fatih , Tumer Leyla
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The mitochondrial elongation factor Tu (EF-Tu), encoded by the TUFM gene, is a GTPase, which is part of the mitochondrial protein translation mechanism. If it is activated, it delivers the aminoacyl-tRNAs to the mitochondrial ribosome. Here, a patient was described with a homozygous missense variant in the TUFM [c.1016G>A (p.Arg339Gln)] gene. To date, only six patients have been reported with bi-allelic pathogenic variants in TUFM, leading to combined oxidative phosphorylation deficiency 4 (COXPD4) characterized by severe early-onset lactic acidosis, encephalopathy, and cardiomyopathy.

Case presentation

The patient presented here had the phenotypic features of TUFM-related disease, lactic acidosis, hypotonia, liver dysfunction, optic atrophy, and mild encephalopathy

Conclusions

We aimed to expand the clinical spectrum of pathogenic variants of TUFM.
On the stability analysis of a restrained functionally graded nanobeam in an elastic matrix with neutral axis effects
Authors: Civalek Ömer , Uzun Büşra , Yaylı Mustafa Özgür
Published: April 2024

In this work, a general eigenvalue solution of an arbitrarily constrained nonlocal strain gradient nanobeam made of functionally graded material is presented for the first time for the stability response by the effect of the Winkler foundation. Elastic springs at the ends of the nanobeam are considered in the formulation, which have not been considered in most studies. In order to analyze deformable boundary conditions, linear equation systems are derived in terms of infinite power series by using the Fourier sine series together with the Stokes’ transform. The higher-order force boundary conditions are used to obtain a coefficient matrix including different end conditions, power-law index, elastic medium, and small-scale parameters. A general eigenvalue problem of technical interest, associated with nonlocal strain gradient theory, is mathematically evaluated and presented in detail. Parametric results are obtained to investigate the effects of material length scale parameter, Winkler stiffness, power-law index, nonlocal parameter, and elastic springs at the ends. In addition, the effects of the other higher-order elasticity theories simplified from nonlocal strain gradient theory are also investigated and some benchmark results are presented.
Save the Forests!—Gamified Learning
Authors: Fleissner-Martin Juliane , Bogner Franz X.
Published: April 2024

Addressing human-made environmental problems such as deforestation is an ongoing educational challenge. Promising educational approaches include cooperative decision-making and attempt via a high level of motivation to promote pro-environmental behaviors. Knowledge about the forest ecosystem, including its threats, is supposed to strengthen responsibilities and individual behavioral preferences. The “Save the Forests!” module engages students in hands-on learning activities under the frame of an educational Escape Game (Edu Breakout). Based on nine workstations, it includes various cooperative activities focusing on the forest ecosystem, its ecosystem services, and common tree species. Students realize advantages of recycling, gain insight into paper production and associated resource consumption, compare eco-labels for sustainable paper products, and reflect on consumer decisions. Additionally, the students learn about habitat situations after clear-cutting, forest fires, or storm damages (succession), including strategies for dealing with deadwood based on scientific data. Besides experiments and challenging tasks, students learn about the ecological footprint and greenwashing by clarifying often-used terms in sustainability contexts. In an accompanied quantitative study approach, students participating in the learning module significantly increased their knowledge scores in a pre-post comparison (n = 135, p < 0.001, d = 0.58).
Ecology in Action
Authors: Bolus Rachel T. , Ogburn R. Matthew , Bucklin Carrie Jo
Published: April 2024

Pedagogical research has demonstrated the effectiveness of authentic, inquiry-based research experiences in a classroom context for improving both cognitive and noncognitive learning outcomes for a broad range of students. Ecology labs are especially suitable for authentic classroom research experiences because they can be designed to integrate a number of important scientific skills. Here we describe a scaffolded, semester-long Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) for an introductory ecology lab intended for sophomore-level university students who have completed introductory biology coursework. Learning objectives and skills emphasized by this project cover the gamut of activities involved in implementing a multi-part, collaborative scientific project. These include scientific thinking, proper collection and curation of data, analytical skills (e.g., statistical reasoning, using statistical Geographic Information System [GIS] software), and communicating project results in both written and oral format. We emphasize the larger-scale collaborative framework as an approach that students are unlikely to have encountered previously, despite being applied commonly among practicing scientists. We also discuss ways this project could be scaled for different grade levels, access to field sites, and access to computing and other resources.
The emerging role of glucagon-like peptide 1 in binge eating
Authors: Balantekin Katherine N , Kretz Martin J , Mietlicki-Baase Elizabeth G
Published: April 2024

Binge eating is a central component of two clinical eating disorders: binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa. However, the large treatment gap highlights the need to identify other strategies to decrease binge eating. Novel pharmacotherapies may be one such approach. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an intestinal and brain-derived neuroendocrine signal with a critical role in promoting glycemic control through its incretin effect. Additionally, the energy balance effects of GLP-1 are well-established; activation of the GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) reduces food intake and body weight. Aligned with these beneficial metabolic effects, there are GLP-1R agonists that are currently used for the treatment of diabetes and obesity. A growing body of literature suggests that GLP-1 may also play an important role in binge eating. Dysregulation of the endogenous GLP-1 system is associated with binge eating in non-human animal models, and GLP-1R agonists may be a promising approach to suppress the overconsumption that occurs during binge eating. Here, we briefly discuss the role of GLP-1 in normal energy intake and reward and then review the emerging evidence suggesting that disruptions to GLP-1 signaling are associated with binge eating. We also consider the potential utility of GLP-1-based pharmacotherapies for reducing binge eating behavior.
Modeling of the mass attenuation coefficients of X ray beams using deep neural networks (DNN) and NIST database
Authors: BERNARDES DA SILVA GUSTAVO , RODRIGUES BOTELHO VIVIANE , Diniz Lopes Becker Carla , Viccari Cassiana , A. Pianoschi Thatiane
Published: April 2024

Attenuation coefficients are essential physical parameters for many applications, such as the calculation of photon penetration and energy deposition to evaluate biological shielding. Estimating these parameters is complex, making it necessary to apply more sophisticated methodologies. The objective of the present study was to propose a model for estimating the attenuation coefficients using artificial neural networks. The NIST database was used to estimate the attenuation coefficients in terms of energy and atomic number from a regression problem using two approaches: the proposition of an automated model using the framework Talos and a manual model using Keras. The characteristics of the best model proposed in Talos were applied in manual training via Keras with cross-validation to evaluate the learning curves. The following were also assessed: the comparison of the curves of the attenuation coefficients predicted by the model compared with the reference data and the general comparison of the vectors X and y of the two models discussed. The Talos framework reference model obtained the following values ​​of Loss and MSE error metric: 0.13 and 0.037, respectively. The best model of the manual approach received the following results: 0.19 and 0.08 for the loss function and MSE error metric, respectively. The absolute percentage error (MAE) of the difference in the results between the two models was: 0.065 and 0.044 for the Loss and MSE metrics. Despite applying two distinct propositions, both models had the same difficulties in predicting discontinuities in the physical behavior associated with the attenuation coefficients.
Osteotomías supramaleolares en pacientes con artrosis de tobillo: resultados clínicos y radiográficos
Authors: Conti Leonardo Ángel , Verbner Jonathan M. , Valenti Pablo , Parise Ana Cecilia , Villena Daniel Sebastián , Santini Araujo María Gala , Sotelano Pablo , Cardone Guillermo , Bilbao Facundo , Carrasco N. Marina
Published: April 2024

Introducción: Las osteotomías supramaleolares son una opción terapéutica para la artrosis asimétrica de tobillo. El objetivo de este artículo es describir los resultados clínicos, radiográficos y subjetivos obtenidos en pacientes con artrosis de tobillo sometidos a una osteotomía supramaleolar.

Materiales y Métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo retrospectivo de pacientes sometidos a una osteotomía supramaleolar por artrosis de tobillo entre enero de 2010 y julio de 2017. Se analizaron las historias clínicas para recabar datos clínicos y radiográficos preoperatorios y posoperatorios.

Resultados: Se incluyó a 13 pacientes: 8 con una desalineación del tobillo y retropié en valgo (61,5%) y 5 (38,5%) en varo. El puntaje medio posoperatorio de la escala analógica visual del grupo con deformidad en varo disminuyó de 9 ± 0,45 a 3 ± 1 (p <0,05) y de una media de 7,88 ± 0,35 a 2,15 ± 1,64 (p <0,05) en aquellos con deformidad en valgo. El puntaje medio de la escala de la AOFAS se modificó de 32,8 ± 16,2 antes de la cirugía a 82,1 ± 13,6 en el posoperatorio, en el grupo con deformidad en varo (p <0,05) y de 31 ± 17,3 a 93,1 ± 6,20, respectivamente, en aquellos con deformidad en valgo (p <0,05). Se constató la consolidación radiográfica en 12 pacientes (92,3%), en un promedio de 10.4 semanas.

Conclusión: La osteotomía supramaleolar como tratamiento de la artrosis asimétrica de tobillo es una técnica predecible, con muy buenos resultados clínicos y radiográficos a corto y mediano plazo.
Asistencia artroscópica y fijación interna percutánea en fracturas de Maisonneuve. Evaluación por imágenes de los resultados
Authors: Herrera Horacio , Rofrano Martín , Azulay Guillermo , Andrés Santiago , Varaona José María , Pereira Francisco , Tálamo Francisco
Published: April 2024

Introducción: La fractura de Maisonneuve es una lesión caracterizada por la fractura subcapital del peroné asociada a una lesión capsuloligamentaria de tobillo. Su tratamiento supone la restauración de la anatomía ósea y capsuloligamentaria normal para restablecer las fuerzas de contacto tibioastragalinas fisiológicas. Esta calidad de reducción puede ser difícil de alcanzar, sobre todo, con técnicas percutáneas.

Objetivo: Evaluar mediante imágenes la calidad de la reducción de fracturas de Maisonneuve reducidas en forma cerrada (bajo visualización directa artroscópica) y fijadas por vía percutánea.

Materiales y Métodos: Se analizaron radiografías e imágenes de tomografía computarizada preoperatorias y posoperatorias, comparativas de los tobillos operado y sano.

Resultados: Se evaluaron 13 fracturas. Los parámetros radiográficos posoperatorios (espacio claro medial, solapamiento tibioperoneo distal, espacio claro tibioperoneo) no registraron diferencias, excepto por el intervalo tibioperoneo anterior que aumentó en un caso. La medición tomográfica posoperatoria del solapamiento tibioperoneo distal y el intervalo tibioperoneo anterior reveló que todas las reducciones eran satisfactorias. Dos pacientes tenían valores alterados en la sindesmosis tibioperonea distal con diferencia >2 mm respecto del tobillo sano.

Conclusión: Recomendamos la asistencia artroscópica para el manejo de lafractura de Maisonneuve como herramienta de control intraoperatorio para una fijación percutánea más segura.