bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Suicide Archive
Authors: Calhoun Doyle D.
Published: September 2024

Throughout the French empire, from the Atlantic and the Caribbean to West and North Africa, men, women, and children responded to enslavement, colonization, and oppression through acts of suicide. In The Suicide Archive, Doyle D. Calhoun charts a long history of suicidal resistance to French colonialism and neocolonialism, from the time of slavery to the Algerian War for Independence to the “Arab Spring.” Noting that suicide was either obscured in or occluded from French colonial archives, Calhoun turns to literature and film to show how aesthetic forms and narrative accounts can keep alive the silenced histories of suicide as a political language. Drawing on scientific texts, police files, and legal proceedings alongside contemporary African and Afro-Caribbean novels, film, and Senegalese oral history, Calhoun outlines how such aesthetic works rewrite histories of resistance and loss. Consequently, Calhoun offers a new way of writing about suicide, slavery, and coloniality in relation to literary history.
Blues Mamas and Broadway Belters
Authors: Asare Masi
Published: September 2024

In Blues Mamas and Broadway Belters, songwriter, scholar, and dramatist Masi Asare explores the singing practice of black women singers in US musical theatre between 1900 and 1970. Asare shows how a vanguard of black women singers including Gertrude “Ma” Rainey, Bessie Smith, Ethel Waters, Pearl Bailey, Juanita Hall, Lena Horne, Eartha Kitt, Diahann Carroll, and Leslie Uggams created a lineage of highly trained and effective voice teachers whose sound and vocal techniques continue to be heard today. Challenging pervasive narratives that these and other black women possessed “untrained” voices, Asare theorizes singing as a form of sonic citational practice—how the sound of the teacher’s voice lives on in the student’s singing. From vaudeville-blues shouters, black torch singers, and character actresses to nightclub vocalists and Broadway glamour girls, Asare locates black women of the musical stage in the context of historical voice pedagogy. She invites readers not only to study these singers, but to study with them—taking seriously what they and their contemporaries have taught about the voice. Ultimately, Asare speaks to the need to feel and hear the racial history in contemporary musical theatre.
Laparoscopic Duodenum and Spleen-Preserving Subtotal or Total Pancreatectomy: A Parenchyma-Sparing Strategy for Main Duct Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms (with Video)
Authors: Li Zheng , Shi Yihua , Tang Wenjie , Chen Chen , Liu Wensheng , Zhuo Qifeng , Ji Shunrong , Zhou Chenjie , Yu Xianjun , Xu Xiaowu
Published: September 2024

Background

For premalignant main duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (MD-IPMN), laparoscopic duodenum and spleen-preserving subtotal or total pancreatectomy (LDSP-STP/TP) seems to be a viable option for parenchyma-sparing pancreatectomy.

Patients and Methods

On the basis of the imaging features, family history, genomic alterations, intraoperative ultrasound examination, and frozen section evaluation, we have proposed patient selection strategies for the LDSP-STP/TP technique for the first time. Additionally, a comprehensive step-by-step overview of this technique has been provided. To date, we have performed five LDSP-STP procedures and one LDSP-TP procedure.

Results

We successfully performed selective resection of the affected pancreatic parenchyma while preserving the duodenum, common bile duct (CBD), spleen, and splenic artery and vein. The operation time ranged from 295 to 495 min, with blood loss ranging from 100 to 300 mL. Postoperative pathological results revealed low-grade dysplasia in the resected pancreatic samples and margins. The patients resumed eating within 3–5 days after surgery, and all postoperative complications were classified as grade I according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. At the 3-month follow-up, there were no cases of CBD ischemic stenosis, splenic ischemia, or pseudocyst formation observed. For patients who received LDSP-STP, the longitudinal diameter of the remaining pancreatic tail ranged from 2.2 to 4.6 cm, and they demonstrated satisfactory long-term blood glycemic control.

Conclusions

LDSP-STP/TP demonstrates technical feasibility and safety. It allows for the selective resection of the affected pancreatic parenchyma, thereby minimizing the impact of pancreatic functional impairment. However, it is crucial to validate this technique through long-term prospective observations.
ECONOMIA DE FRANCISCO E CLARA
Authors: Santos Márcio Júnior Braga dos , Luna Sóstenes
Published: September 2024

Este artigo pretende apresentar a Economia de Francisco e Clara, proposta do Papa Francisco para realmar a economia. Considerando os diversos problemas sociais enfrentados pelos povos, muitos deles causados pelo sistema econômico vigente, busca-se uma economia centrada nos seres humanos, no planeta e em todas as outras vidas que nele habitam.  Por meio de pesquisa e revisão com enfoque teórico e bibliográfico e uso do método hipotético-dedutivo, entende-se que a economia atual carece de alternativas para que se torne sustentável, e a Economia de Francisco e Clara apresenta contundentes críticas e possibilidades para o cuidado da vida, por meio da economia.
Effect of ethanol extract of nigella sativa L seeds and propofol on BDNF protein level as neuroplasticity and neuroprotection of traumatic brain injury in rats
Authors: Kulsum Kulsum , Syahrul Syahrul , Hasbalah Kartini , Balqis Ummu
Published: September 2024

Background Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a change in brain function or evidence of brain pathology caused by external mechanical forces. Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a neurotropin that functions as a neuron protective. Nigella sativa L is reported to have an antioxidant effect, administration of Nigella Sativa L to rats treated with ischemia-reperfusion brain injury. Propofol is an anesthetic agent frequently used intravenously in the management of TBI. The effect of propofol on brain tissue after TBI may be neuroprotective. We aimed to compare the potential of Nigella sativa L and propofol as neuroplasticity and neuroprotection in rats with TBI. Methods This was a laboratory experimental animal model with the post-test only control group design, namely measuring the effect of treatment by comparing the five groups of rats consisting of 30 rats. BDNF levels in rat brain tissue were collected at day 7 of treatment and measured by ELISA. Results The average BDNF protein levels per group, namely G1 (221,243 pg/mL), G2 (172,139 pg/mL), G3 (255,483 pg/mL), G4 (227,089 pg/mL), and G5 (272,603 pg/mL) respectively. Based on the ANOVA statistic, p-value = 0.032 (there was a significant difference between groups), with the Levene Test (0.077) or having variance between the same groups, sequentially the difference in average BDNF protein levels of the five groups is G5>G3>G4>G1>G2, meaning that the combination of Nigella sativa and propofol has more potential to increase BDNF protein levels than Nigella sativa, and Nigella sativa has more potential than propofol. Conclusion We concluded that both nigella sativa and propofol have the potential to increase BDNF protein levels. Nigella Sativa L had a better effect than propofol in repairing damaged neuron cells (neuroplasticity) and increasing BDNF protein levels (neuroprotection) for 7 days of administration in rat traumatic brain injury.
Efficacy of Laser Therapy in Patient Self-Assessment for Cervical and Lumbar Spine Pain Syndromes – Original Study
Authors: Ruta Damian
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Laser therapy, or Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (LASER), is a relatively popular method used in rehabilitation for various patient conditions.
Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of laser therapy in treating pain syndromes of the cervical and lumbar spine.
Material: The study included 108 patients, consisting of 72 women (67%) and 36 men (33%) diagnosed with chronic pain syndromes in the cervical and lumbar spine regions. The average patient age was 64.4 years.
Method: A proprietary questionnaire survey
Results: According to 44.4% of respondents, the effects of laser therapy are moderate, while 28.7% reported significant improvement. The study showed that for 50% of patients, the pain relief was substantial, for 37% it was minimal, and for only 9.3% there was no noticeable improvement. Among the participants, 70.8% of women and 75% of men considered laser therapy to be an effective treatment. Notably, 100 respondents expressed a willingness to undergo laser therapy again in the future.
Conclusions: The data indicates that laser therapy is an effective treatment for spinal pain syndromes, often resulting in significant symptom relief. However, the concern is the short duration of pain relief after therapy, with symptoms commonly recurring within a few months to a year. The willingness of 100 respondents to undergo future laser therapy underscores the positive perception of this rehabilitation method among patients.
The Impact of Air Pollution on Atopic Dermatitis. Literature review
Authors: Dolata Natalia , Balcer Bartosz , Kuleta Katarzyna
Published: September 2024

Introduction and purpose
The rising level of air pollution is currently a serious worldwide problem. Airborne pollutants, such as PM, O3, CO, NOx, SO₂, and heavy metals, negatively impact the entire body, contributing to the dysfunction of many systems. The aim of this study was to review the literature on the impact of selected air pollutants on the development or exacerbation of atopic dermatitis, and to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for this.
Materials and methods
The literature available in PubMed and Google Scholar databases was reviewed using the keywords: “air pollution”, “atopic dermatitis”, “skin lesions”.
Description of the state of knowledge
Available studies have provided information on the significant impact of air pollution on the development and exacerbation of atopic dermatitis. Air pollutants can induce skin changes through various mechanisms, such as damage to the epidermal barrier, disruption of skin microflora, oxidative stress, initiation of inflammatory responses, or activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor pathway.
Conclusions
Reducing air pollution is crucial for improving overall public health and decreasing the incidence of many diseases, including atopic dermatitis. Further research is needed to deepen the understanding of the relationship between air pollution and atopic dermatitis, as well as the mechanisms responsible for it, and to develop effective strategies for protecting the skin from pollutants.
The multifaceted role of long non-coding RNA DLEU1 in cancer progression: implications for diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Stanicki Paweł , Szarpak Julita , Pażyra Aldona , Kusak Natalia , Żak Natalia , Jaworska Barbara
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE: Long non-coding RNAs are key regulators of gene expression and tumorigenesis. Deleted in leukemia 1 (DLEU1) is significant in cancer development. This article reviews DLEU1's role across cancers, assessing its diagnostic and therapeutic potential.
METHODS: A review of scientific articles from PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted.
DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF KNOWLEDGE: DLEU1 drives tumor growth in glioblastoma, esophageal, colorectal, and oral cancers by interacting with key miRNAs and genes, promoting malignancy. In breast and ovarian cancers, DLEU1 modulates migration and invasion via specific pathways. In cervical cancer, DLEU1 is linked to immune modulation and serves as a prognostic marker.
SUMMARY: DLEU1 is a vital regulator in various cancers, offering potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target.
The Skin's Sun Story: Risks and Precautions
Authors: Krzesłowska Wiktoria Julia , Szewczyk Kamila , Pytel Paulina , Szewczyk Bartłomiej , Wiśniewski Szymon , Hołowni Weronika
Published: September 2024

Background: The skin, representing the largest organ in the human body, serves numerous funtions crucial for homeostasis, as well as acts as the primary physical barrier protecting the organism from external environmental factors such as microorganisms, mechanical damage, heat or cold exposure, toxins, as well as solar radiation, posing various risks to the skin, including sunburn, photoageing and skin malignancies. 
Objectives: This study aims to explore the effects of solar radiation on the skin and to discuss preventive measures against its negative influence on the skin. Methods: An exhaustive search of references related to sun exposure and skin published in PubMed was undertaken, using the search terms: "solar exposure and skin, ultraviolet radiation and skin, visible light and skin, sunscreen, photoprotection”. 
Conclusions: Solar radiation, particularly ultraviolet radiation (UVR), induces acute and chronic damage to the skin, leading to conditions such as sunburn, photoaging, and skin malignancies. However, adequate exposure to sunlight is crucial for the synthesis of vitamin D3, which plays essential roles in calcium homeostasis, immune function, and potentially other physiological processes. Strategies such as proper sunscreen use and other photoprotection methods can mitigate the adverse effects of solar radiation while allowing for sufficient vitamin D synthesis.
Prevention and early detection of the most aggressive skin cancer: melanoma
Authors: Szostak Agata Paulina , Szopińska Kinga , Graca Magdalena , Śmigielska-Mikołajczyk Maria Janina , Łowicka Weronika , Dyląg Liliana , Wawszkowicz Konrad , Oluszczak Karolina , Szeliga Anna , Korta Karolina
Published: September 2024

Skin cancers are the most common cancers and they are divided into two types: melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs). Melanoma is the most lethal and aggressive type of skin cancer. The incidence of this type of cancer is increasing. Mortality from melanoma can be reduced by avoidance of exposure to ultraviolet radiation and regular skin examination.
Materials and methods of research
English-language scientific literature available in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases was reviewed using the following keywords: ”melanoma”; ”early-detection”; ”self-screening”; ”tanning”; ”sunscreen”; ”dermatoscopy”; ”mortality”; ”prevention”; ”risk-factors”; ”UV protection”; ”epidemiology”.
Aim of the study
The purpose of this narrative review is to present risk factors, prevention and the importance of early detection of melanoma. This review also shows that it is possible to increase people's awareness of skin self-examination and the importance of UV protection through the use of modern technology (text messaging).
Conclusions
There are many risk factors for melanoma. People's awareness of the risks of UV exposure from both sunbathing and tanning beds is increasing. More and more people are starting to protect themselves from the sun and regularly check their skin. This behavior reduces the risk of developing melanoma and increases the chances of detecting melanoma in its early stages.
Game-Changing Antibiotic Solutions for Chronic UTIs in Women
Authors: Makowska Karolina , Billewicz Marta , Perwejnis Sebastian , Marczyk Aleksandra
Published: September 2024

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are prevalent in primary healthcare settings, with persistent recurrences posing significant challenges. These recurrences necessitate extended antibiotic use, adversely affecting patients' quality of life, mental health, and physical activity. The evolving defense mechanisms of bacteria against the host immune system and antibiotics complicate treatment. This article examines the pathomechanisms of recurrent UTIs, focusing on bacterial defense factors. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for developing innovative treatments, particularly non-antibiotic methods, to reduce antibiotic use and its associated side effects, thereby improving patients' overall well-being. The review synthesizes current knowledge on the pathomechanisms, diagnostics, and treatments for recurrent UTIs, emphasizing the impact on patients' mental and physical health. It highlights innovative, non-antibiotic treatment approaches.
Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Weight Loss and Metabolic Health
Authors: Kaźmierczak Anna , Perkowska Klaudia , Kiełb Anna , Borkowska Agata , Izdebska Wiktoria , Stanek Jakub , Sornek Patrycja , Pawlak Igor , Mich Anna , Ciesielski Radosław
Published: September 2024

Introduction and Purpose: Intermittent fasting (IF) has become a popular strategy for combating obesity and improving metabolic health. This dietary regimen alternates between periods of fasting and eating, aiming to enhance cellular health and increase longevity. With obesity rates doubling globally since 1990 and metabolic diseases on the rise, IF offers a potential solution by promoting metabolic benefits and reducing obesity-related conditions.
Material and Method: This review examines various IF methods, including alternate-day fasting, the 5:2 diet, and time-restricted eating. The analysis focuses on the impact of these fasting methods on body weight, insulin sensitivity, and lipid profiles, based on a compilation of studies that explore the physiological effects and health outcomes associated with IF.
Results: IF has shown to be effective in reducing body weight and improving metabolic parameters. Studies indicate significant benefits in insulin sensitivity and lipid profiles, with some variations across different IF protocols. Physiological insights reveal that IF leads to a metabolic switch from glucose-based to ketone-based energy, which plays a critical role in its effectiveness.
Conclusions: Intermittent fasting appears to be a viable alternative to continuous calorie restriction for weight loss and metabolic enhancement. It not only aids in weight management but also offers additional health benefits such as improved insulin sensitivity and better lipid profiles. However, more long-term studies are needed to fully understand its benefits and potential risks. Future research should focus on optimizing fasting protocols and exploring their long-term effects on health and disease.
Physical Activity as a Protective Factor Against Depression Incidence and as a Treatment for Depression
Authors: Oluszczak Karolina , Korta Karolina , Szeliga Anna , Szostak Agata , Wawszkowicz Konrad , Śmigielska-Mikołajczyk Maria Janina , Dyląg Liliana , Łowicka Weronika , Szopińska Kinga , Graca Magdalena
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Introduction:
Depression is one of the most common and serious mental health disorders that negatively affects how you feel, think, and act. This syndrome is characterized by stress and  emotion dysregulation, involving compromised structural integrity of frontal-limbic networks.It causes persistent feelings of sadness and a lack of interest in activities once enjoyed. Effective treatments, including therapy and medication, are available and can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. The aspect of physical activity as a component of depression treatment is currently being intensively studied. 
Purpose of work:
This work provides a review of the knowledge on the relationship between physical activity and depression. 
Summary: 
Depression has a profound impact on the personal life, relationships, and work of those affected by the condition. Pharmacological and psychological interventions remain the cornerstone of treatment. However, these treatments do not produce the desired effects in all patients. This article presents the conclusion that physical exercise, as an alternative method for preventing and treating depression, is effective. The recent literature also suggests significant mental health benefits from being physically active, even at levels below the public health recommendations. Therefore, health practitioners should encourage any increase in physical activity to enhance mental health.
The Interplay Between Sleep Disorders and Depression Examining the Influence of Insomnia and Daytime Sleepiness on Mental Health
Authors: Janicka Ewelina Justyna , Rosińska Kamila , Bochenek Oliwia , Perko Agnieszka , Andrzejczyk Agata , Łojewska Julia Natalia , Niedźwiedzka Monika , Rosiński Mateusz
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Depression is one of the most common mental disorders, characterized by a wide range of symptoms, including sleep disturbances. Sleep, as a key component of mental health, plays a significant role in the development and treatment of depression. This study examines the impact of sleep, particularly insomnia and excessive sleepiness, on depressive disorders.
Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the relationship between sleep quality and the occurrence and progression of depression, with particular attention to the influence of antidepressant treatment on sleep quality.
Materials and Methods: A literature review covering studies on the relationship between sleep disorders and depression, as well as the effectiveness of various therapeutic methods for treating these disorders, found on the PubMed and Google Scholar platforms.
Conclusions: Sleep quality has a significant impact on the onset and severity of depressive symptoms. Appropriate treatment of sleep disorders can significantly improve the effectiveness of depression treatment and, in some cases, even prevent it. Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders may be a key component in the prevention and treatment of depression.
Melatonin receptor agonists in neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric disorders
Authors: Dyrek Nicola , Balwierz Magdalena , Łata Marcin , Kosińska Agnieszka
Published: September 2024

Neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases remain a therapeutic challenge. Mental illnesses such as depression and bipolar affective disorder lead to disruption of the diurnal rhythm of melatonin secretion and disruption of the sleep-wake axis. The use of new melatonergic drugs has received special attention in recent years. Selective melatoninergic M1 and M2 receptor agonists (tasimelteon, ramelteon) show a more favorable metabolic profile, better regulation of circadian rhythms, and effects on total sleep time and sleep quality compared to the already well-studied melatonin. In addition, these drugs show no addictive potential. Agomelatine, through its action on M1 and M2 receptors, as well as serotonergic 5-HT2C and 5-HT2B receptors, exhibits antidepressant, normothymic, and neuroprotective effects, providing primary therapy or adjunctive treatment.
The Role of Gut Microbiome Alterations in the Pathogenesis and Management of Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Koralewicz Mateusz , Szatkowska Olga , Choinka Martyna , Tschuschke Max , Wdowiak Natalia , Adamska Kinga
Published: September 2024

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation and damage to the exocrine glands, leading to symptoms such as ocular and oral dryness, and a range of extraglandular manifestations including polyneuropathies, lung and kidney dysfunction, and systemic vasculitis. Although the exact etiology of SS remains unclear, recent research has highlighted the significant role of gut microbiota in its pathogenesis. Alterations in the gut microbiome, known as dysbiosis, have been implicated in the onset and progression of autoimmune diseases, including SS. This review synthesizes current research on the impact of microbiota on SS, focusing on microbial dysbiosis, its impact on disease severity, and potential therapeutic interventions. Evidence indicates that specific microbial changes, such as reductions in beneficial bacteria and alterations in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, correlate with increased disease activity and systemic inflammation. Microbiome-targeted therapies, including probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, have shown promise in improving SS symptoms and modulating immune responses. Notably, butyrate and specific probiotic strains have demonstrated potential in reducing inflammation and enhancing salivary flow in preclinical studies. However, further research is needed to validate these findings and assess long-term efficacy. This review underscores the importance of gut microbiota in SS and suggests that microbiome-focused treatments could offer new avenues for managing this condition, improving patient outcomes, and potentially preventing disease onset.
Rescue in Poland – History, Essence and Future
Authors: Łukasz Piotr Szewczyk  , Marcin Mikos
Published: September 2024

Aim: The aim of the article is to present the history, essence and mission of the Polish rescue system, and its location in the system of civil protection, civil defence, general security, and even more broadly, national security. The article is also an attempt to answer the question about the essence of the Polish rescue system, its holistic definition containing the most important immanent components common to all its fields and varieties. It is also an answer to the question about the main goals of this system, as well as the correlation with the existing threats classified into three main catalogues. Introduction: In this article, the authors tried to familiarize readers with the organization, origins and location of the Polish rescue system in the above-mentioned security systems, articulating its diversity and potential. This article consists of two main parts. In the first one, the authors presented a historical outline of Polish rescue services, presenting its main areas and primary entities responsible for them. The second part presents the essence of Polish rescue in correlation with national security, general security, population protection and civil defence. The whole is complemented by conclusions focusing mainly on articulating the strong and established position of rescue in the systemic approach to public safety in Poland. Methodology: The article mainly analyses the most important normative documents, scientific articles and compact monographs recognized in the field of rescue and protection of the population of the authors. Conclusions: Polish rescue is based on functioning of many institutions (including services, inspections and guards), which partly has historical implications and partly results from a certain internationalization of rescue in several areas, such as sea and air rescue. On the one hand, it greatly complicates the overall picture of the set of elements of the Polish rescue system. On the other hand, it proves his high potential. It seems that the Polish rescue system has an established and strong position in the general security system and constitutes an important element of Polish national security. This does not mean, that this system does not need changes. For example, the above-mentioned dispersion of the system forces the adoption of certain unifications both in the organizational, formal-legal and IT spheres, so that the individual executive and management elements operating within the system operate based on common goals and mission on the basis of cooperation and not competition. Keywords: security, civil protection, rescue, history of Polish rescue, general security
National and EU Legislation in the Face of Challenges of the 21st Century Technology – Selected Legislation on Data Protection and Security of Persons and Products
Authors: Monika Wyszomirska
Published: September 2024

Aim: The development of the 21st century technology poses enormous challenges to the modern legislator, as the dynamics of new technologies prevent the traditional normative model from fully achieving its objectives. In the previous article (SFT Vol. 60 Issue 2, 2022), the author discussed the legal aspects related to the development and implementation of new technologies and answered the question of whether the current legislation combines the intentions of the rule-makers with social and economic needs. This publication discusses selected aspects of personal data protection (GDPR), product safety legislation and Directive 2016/680, continuing the discussion on the role of law and how legislation should be structured to enable or at least facilitate the safe development of new technologies. Introduction: As technology evolves, new threats also arise – making it necessary to introduce new or improve existing methods of security protection. An analysis of selected issues relating to both privacy risks and the redistribution of goods and services indicates a direct relationship between deployed technologies and instruments for security in the broadest sense. Regardless of the type of new technology, the most important issue is to ensure the safety of individuals. GDPR Regulation, Directive 2016/680 of the European Parliament and of the Council (EU) on the protection of natural persons and Regulation 2023/988 on general product safety are important pieces of legislation that serve to protect the security of community members and those who work with EU countries. Methodology: The article uses theoretical research methods, including an analysis of the applicable legislation and the literature and views of the doctrine, as well as the results of the research work of the author of the publication. Conclusions: The use of 21st century technology – especially over the last decade – has shown that personal and product information is a very valuable commodity in the marketplace. Anything of value is potentially exposed to numerous dangers, hence the need to create legal tools to protect privacy and the security of individuals and products. GDPR legislation, Directive 2016/680 on the protection of natural persons (...), Directive 2019/1937 on the protection of whistle-blowers in the EU and Regulation 2023/988 on general product safety are examples of regulations that address phenomena resulting from developments in technology. Keywords: new technology law, product safety, GDPR, online trading platforms
¡Mamíferos silvestres en Iztapalapa!
Authors: Márquez-Villalba Galo Ludwig , Martínez-Coronel Matías
Published: September 2024

Sabías que al oriente de la Ciudad de México está Iztapalapa, que es el municipio o alcaldía más poblado, con 1,835,486 y la que tiene la mayor densidad poblacional, con 16 152.3 hab./km2 de la ciudad, entre otros méritos. En Iztapalapa la falta de agua es frecuente y de mala calidad, el terreno sufre hundimientos y fracturas constantes debido a la extracción de agua del subsuelo, lo que implica un costo alto de mantenimiento de las casas-habitación. A pesar de ello, en Iztapalapa son frecuentes las invasiones de terrenos para habitar, y casi ningún espacio municipal o federal se ha salvado de esta práctica nociva, incluyendo las denominadas áreas naturales protegidas que han perdido buena parte de sus espacios ante los invasores disfrazados de desarrolladores urbanos. En el oriente de la Ciudad de México, se localizan dos áreas naturales protegidas que se ubican en Iztapalapa, El Cerro de la Estrella y la Sierra de Santa Catarina, así como un pequeño cerro, el Peñón del Marqués o Peñón Viejo, que por su terreno deleznable se ha resistido a ser completamente invadido. En este mar de casas, estos tres accidentes geológicos funcionan como islas que albergan fauna y flora silvestres nativos del Valle de México.
Ando volando bajo
Authors: González-Gallina Alberto , Rizo-Aguilar Areli , González-Zariñana Blanca
Published: September 2024

Parecería obvio que los murciélagos, únicos mamíferos voladores, cruzarían los caminos por encima y no tendrían problemas con obstáculos terrestres como los autos, ¿no es así? Pues la respuesta es: no, a veces sí los tienen.
El perro: un alimento riesgoso para el jaguar
Authors: Pérez-Flores Jonathan , May-Uicab Daniel , Weissenberger Holger
Published: September 2024

La invasión de los humanos y sus mascotas en el hábitat de los jaguares está ocasionando una serie de interacciones negativas que podrían tener graves consecuencias. Una de ellas es la depredación de perros, la cual es altamente peligrosa por el riesgo potencial de transmisión de patógenos.
Crónica de muerte anunciada: el chichilote
Authors: González-Romero Alberto , González-Gallina Alberto , Montero-Bagatella Sandra H.
Published: September 2024

El carismático chichilote es un roedor sumamente importante en el ecosistema que habita y desempeña funciones muy valiosas en el. Sin embargo, en los últimos años, las actividades humanas están comprometiendo severamente su existencia.
Adaptarse o morir ¿o ninguna de las anteriores?
Authors: León Tapia M. Ángel , Guevara Lázaro
Published: September 2024

Desde la época de Charles Darwin, la idea de que las especies evolucionan para adaptarse a distintos ambientes ha sido fundamental en la biología evolutiva. Sin embargo, la evolución es mucho más compleja, y no siempre sigue el modelo darwiniano de adaptación.
Escuchando a los monos araña para conservarlos
Authors: Pinel-Ramos Eduardo José , Aureli Filippo , Spaan Denise
Published: September 2024

Una de las preguntas más frecuentes que hacemos en la biología es ¿cuántos animales hay en un lugar? Esto puede aplicarse a una especie en particular en uno o varios lugares, o a diversas especies dentro de un área natural específica, por ejemplo. Para intentar contestar esta pregunta necesitamos monitorear las poblaciones de fauna silvestre, lo cual consiste en el estudio y conteo de especies en su hábitat natural.
Assessment of Potential Probiotic Yeasts Isolated from The Small Intestines of Cattle in Thailand
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand, Angchuan Jirameth , Wongpanit Kannika ,   Faculty of Natural Resources and Agro-Industry, Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon Province Campus, Kasetsart University, Sakon Nakhon 47000, Thailand, Limtong Savitree ,   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand,   Biodiversity Center Kasetsart University (BDCKU), Bangkok 10900, Thailand,   Academy of Science, The Royal Society of Thailand, Bangkok 10300, Thailand, Srisuk Nantana ,   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand,   Biodiversity Center Kasetsart University (BDCKU), Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Published: September 2024

Y easts are widely studied and considered good candidates for probiotics due to their numerous benefits. This study aimed to investigate potential probiotic attributes of yeasts isolated from the small intestines of cattle in Thailand. Growth at body temperature, resistance to low pH, auto-aggregation capability, hydrophobicity, growth under gastrointestinal tract (GIT) conditions, safety profiles, antimicrobial activity, and extracellular enzyme production of yeast strains were evaluated in vitro. The results of sequential screening indicated that 829 out of 1,025 yeast strains could grow at both 37 and 39 °C, 682 strains could resist acidity at pH 2 for 24 h, 252 strains revealed greater than 83% auto-aggregation capability, and 97 strains showed higher than 90% hydrophobicity. Sixty strains grew well under simulated GIT conditions in the presence of pepsin, pancreatin, and bile salts. Thirteen strains of Diutina rugosa showed negative results for hemolytic, gelatinase, and phospholipase activities, while seven strains of Pichia kudriavzevii also showed negative results for the above activities, except for phospholipase. Neither D. rugosa nor P. kudriavzevii inhibited Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Additionally, 12 strains of D. rugosa and four strains of P. kudriavzevii produced phytase and cellulase, while only D. rugosa PCD3-6 exhibited protease and phytase activities. Therefore, D. rugosa (strains PCD3-6, PCD93-19, PYJ93-7, PYJ93-16, PCJ94-4, PCJ94-6, PCJ94-10, PYD100-8, CTD93-1, CTD93-2, CTJ93-5, CTJ93-6, and YTJ97-4) and P. kudriavzevii (strains PYI3-3, PCI3-4, PCJ90-7, and PYI91-15) were proposed as potential probiotic yeasts. They may be beneficially applied as feed additives to improve nutritional value and quality, thereby enhancing animal performance and health. Moreover, this work indicated useful preliminary results that could be a baseline for future research in human probiotic applications.
Exclusive breastfeeding in Colombia: analysis of data on respiratory infections and acute diarrhoeal diseases
Authors: Rincon Mejia Juan Felipe
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Despite the fact that Colombia is the fourth country in the world with the highest concession of maternity leave days, it still does not cover what is defined as essential to reduce Respiratory Tract Infection (RTI) and Acute Diarrhoeal Disease (ADD) in infants. Objective: The objective of this research was to analyze indicators of respiratory infections and acute diarrheal diseases during exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in Colombia. Methodology: The management of solid research data at the institutional level used as instrument the LERU roadmap for health indicators in institutions attached to the Secretariat of Health of Bogota, based on the case study and matched controls 1: 2, from publications of the SaluData observatory, the Ten-Year Breastfeeding and Complementary Feeding Plan- PDLMAC 2021-2030, as well as the registry book of infants between 0 to 5 months of age, taking as a focused sample the Hospital San Juan de Dios in Colombia, the detection of the occurrence of events that allow formulating a hypothesis in accordance with the variables: breastfeeding and maternity leave; respiratory infections and acute diarrheal diseases. Results: The findings show that there is an association between exclusive breastfeeding during maternity leave to reduce respiratory infections and acute diarrheal diseases in the hospitals attached to the Health Secretariat of Bogota. One in six children does not receive exclusive breastfeeding during maternity leave in Colombia. Conclusion: As implications, the public health strategies must be reconsidered to favor EBF and extend maternity leave times, complying with the 6-month goal defined by the World Health Organization.
Light-adapted flicker-optoretinography based on raster-scan optical coherence tomography towards clinical translation
Authors: Gong Zhaoyu , Shi Yaping , Liu Jian , Sabesan Ramkumar , Wang Ruikang K.
Published: September 2024

Optoretinography (ORG) is a promising non-invasive and objective technique for assessing retinal function by measuring its response to light stimulation. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has emerged as a promising tool for implementing ORG due to its three-dimensional imaging capabilities, high sensitivity to nanometer-scale changes induced by light stimulation, and clinical availability. Although ORG has proven feasible in laboratory settings, research-grade OCT systems lack satisfactory usability and cost-effectiveness to be clinically viable. Standard clinical raster-scan OCT systems, with their limited imaging speed, fall short of the requirements for measuring rapid ORG responses. To bridge this gap, we introduce a flicker-ORG modality based on a raster-scan OCT system that resembles standard clinical OCT. This system overcomes speed limitations through an innovative two-stage scanning protocol coupled with a 600 kHz swept source, enabling repeated volume imaging and precise retinal activity measurements over a finite area. Additionally, the light-adapted ORG strategy eliminates the need for dark adaptation, allowing examinations under photopic conditions and thus improving patient compliance. We tested this new ORG method by measuring flicker-induced photoreceptor responses in five healthy subjects. The results demonstrated high repeatability and revealed dependencies of the ORG response on flicker frequency and retinal eccentricity. These findings, combined with the system’s utility, cost-effectiveness, and ease of integration into existing technologies, underscore its substantial potential for clinical application.
Experimental demonstration of the time-dependent source side-channel and countermeasures in polarization-based BB84 QKD systems
Authors: Zhang Wan-Li , Jiang Cong , Zhou Fei , Liu Yang , Li Fang-Ke , Wang Xiang-Bin
Published: September 2024

High-speed is one development tendency of the practical and commercial quantum key distribution (QKD) systems, and the gain-switched semiconductor laser (GSSL) and Sagnac interferometer have been popular components for high-speed commercial polarization-based BB84 QKD systems thanks to their stability, compactness and low cost. However, due to the finite extinction ratio (ER) of the GSSL, the time-dependent source side-channel, which is theoretically presented in [Phys. Rev. A 106(6): 062618 (2022)10.1103/PhysRevA.106.062618], also exists in these QKD systems. In this article, we experimentally investigate this side-channel in the polarization-based BB84 QKD system. The results show an obvious correlation in the output polarization states between the weak leakage light and its adjacent pulses, which will cause information to leak. More importantly, we have proposed several countermeasures, retested the side channel, and developed a mathematical framework to quantitatively assess the impact of the time-dependent side channel and these countermeasures on the secure key rate. Finally, we offer a trade-off analysis that considers defense effectiveness, pulse impact, and cost for various countermeasures in QKD. This provides a practical recommendation for improving the security of QKD systems.
Simulation of photonic crystal enhanced Ge-on-Si single photon avalanche diodes
Authors: Smith Charlie K. , McCarthy Charlie , Millar Ross W.
Published: September 2024

Simulations of single photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) based on the Ge-on-Si material platform are presented, highlighting the potential performance enhancement achievable with nano-hole array photonic crystal structures. Such structures can be used to enhance photon absorption and therefore increase single photon detection efficiencies (SPDE). However, there is yet to be a study of these structures in application to Ge-on-Si SPADs to determine if the optical enhancements can be realized as SPDE or to evaluate the change in dark count rate due to the nano-holes that form the photonic crystal. This work establishes an optimization and analysis platform for investigating photonic crystal structures on SPAD devices. Both a direct Ge etch method, and an etched amorphous Si design are compared to a reference device with an optimized anti-reflection coating. Finite difference time domain simulations were used to optimize the photonic crystal parameters for these structures, finding a potential absorption of up to 37.09 % at wavelengths of 1550 nm for a 1 µm absorption layer, compared to 11.33 % for the reference device. Subsequently, TCAD simulations and custom code were used to calculate the effective enhancement to SPAD performance metrics, as a function of material and passivation quality, showing up to 2.41x higher SPDE and 2.57x better noise-equivalent power is achievable provided etched surfaces are sufficiently well passivated.
Enhancing ocean color retrieval in sunglint regions: the efficacy of IPNOA over conventional atmospheric correction methods
Authors: Wang Junwei , Deng Linke , Chen Shuguo , Hu Lianbo , Ma Chaofei , Zou Bin , Peng Hailong , Lin Mingsen
Published: September 2024

Sunglint significantly impacts the extraction of ocean color information, particularly for sensors lacking tilt capabilities. Traditional atmospheric correction algorithms often fail to retrieve effective data in high-sunglint regions. The polynomial-based POLYMER method, applied to MERIS data, effectively addresses sunglint, although its accuracy decreases by about 15% in such conditions. To enhance data reliability in sunglint regions, we propose the Improved polynomial nonlinear optimization approach (IPNOA), a revision of the POLYMER atmospheric correction. IPNOA employs the QAA-RGR (quasi-analytical algorithm-red-green-bands-ratio) to refine the bio-optical ocean reflectance model. Additionally, due to the nonlinear optimization algorithm’s sensitivity to initial values, this study uses global 8-day average oceanic optical properties at 4 km resolution as the initial setting. The performance of IPNOA was initially evaluated using a synthetic dataset, with retrieved remote sensing reflectance (Rrs) closely matching the simulated Rrs across all wavelengths. The mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) remained below 1% for non-sunglint, moderate sunglint, and high sunglint conditions. Further analysis of in situ data revealed that IPNOA performs better, exceptionally at 412 nm, with a MAPE of 5.27% in sunglint regions. When processed by POLYMER, the dataset exhibited a MAPE of 68.47%. Finally, an analysis of global data from MODIS, VIIRS, and HY1C/D on July 15, 2022, showed good agreement among the three on a global scale. Above all, these results indicate that the IPNOA algorithm has strong potential for retrieving valid products in moderate, even high sunglint regions, offering practical benefits for expanding the spatial coverage of ocean color satellite data.
High precision single-photon object detection via deep neural networks
Authors: Li Xiaozhe , Liu Jinyi , Zhao Guoyang , Liu Lijun , Zhang Weiping , Hu Xiaomin , Cheng Shuming
Published: September 2024

Single-photon imaging is an emerging technology in sensing that is capable of imaging and identifying remote objects under extreme conditions. However, it faces several challenges, such as low resolution and high noise, to do the task of object detection. In this work, we propose an enhanced You Only Look Once network to identify and localize objects within images generated by single-photon sensing. We then experimentally test the proposed network on both the self-built single-photon dataset and the VisDrone2019 public dataset. Our results show that our network achieves a higher detection accuracy than the baseline models. Moreover, it admits a higher average precision in detecting small single-photon objects. Our work is expected to aid significant progress in exploring practical applications of single-photon sensing.
Average bit-error rate analysis of an inter-satellite optical communication system under the effect of perturbations
Authors: Zhu Yulong , Xu Guanjun , Gao Min , Chu Hongjun , Song Zhaohui
Published: September 2024

The benefits of higher data transmission rates, extensive communication frequency bandwidths, reduced power consumption, and enhanced anti-interference capabilities make inter-satellite optical communication (ISOC) a promising technology for the future. However, during orbital motion, satellites are subjected to external perturbation forces, which affect the performance of the ISOC system. This paper establishes an ISOC system consisting of two co-orbital satellites orbiting the Earth under the influence of perturbations. For what we believe to be the first time, the probability density function (PDF) of the radial displacement caused by perturbations is introduced. Subsequently, a PDF detailing the inter-satellite pointing errors, while accounting for the effects of perturbations and platform vibrations, is presented. Moreover, pointing errors and plasma absorption are considered in the PDF derivation process for the end-to-end ISOC system. The closed-form expression for the average bit-error rate (BER) of the proposed system is derived using Meijer’s G function. Simulation results are provided to validate the theoretical expression. The findings show that key parameters associated with perturbations significantly influence the PDF of inter-satellite pointing errors and the average BER of the proposed ISOC system.