bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-starting Cr2+:ZnSe femtosecond laser with 200 nm continuous tuning and 96.5 nm bandwidth at 2.2 µm
Authors: Kozlova Elizaveta A. , Mkrtchyan Aram A. , Nazarov Dmitry A. , Krasnikov Dmitry V. , Nasibulin Albert G. , Gladush Yury G. , Tarabrin Mikhail K.
Published: December 2024

High-resolution optical diagnostics in the short wavelength infrared (SWIR II) region have gained significant attention in medical research, showing great potential for tissue spectroscopy and visualization due to the region’s low water absorption and scattering coefficients. However, high-beam-quality sources covering an entire spectral range are limited. This paper presents the development of a femtosecond Cr2+:ZnSe laser with a 2.2 µm center wavelength, a pulse duration of 60 fs, a spectral width of 96.5 nm, and an energy of 4.5 nJ. The resulting source is expected to enable spectroscopy and the optical coherence tomography system for diagnosing collagen-rich tissues.
Error analysis and spectral reconstruction of an infrared static miniature interferometric spectrometer
Authors: Chen Yupeng , Lv Jinguang , Zhao Baixuan , Zhao Yingze , Zheng Kaifeng , Qin Yuxin , Wang Weibiao , Nie Haitao , Yue Wei , Liang Jingqiu
Published: December 2024

Scientific-grade spectrometers with high hyperspectral resolution and high spectral accuracy are desirable in miniaturized optical systems to maintain stable and real-time spectral sampling. Fourier transform spectrometers that utilize high-precision moving mirrors generally struggle to enhance their miniaturization and stable real-time performance. A static infrared spectral measurement method is proposed that uses micro/nano-optical devices as the core of static interference and lightweight imaging. The use of micro/nano step mirrors allows for the instantaneous sampling of spectra. By employing an array of micro/nano lenses, interference imaging for each spectral channel can be accomplished. The spectrometer's all-static micro/nano-optical structure results in a reduction in volume and weight of more than half. Enhanced precision in design and fabrication is achieved through optical error analysis via a full-linkage optical field transmission model. An image edge detection-assisted spectral inversion algorithm is proposed, and the sampling stability and reconstruction accuracy are verified. The repeatability accuracy of interference intensity sampling surpasses 2%, and the peak accuracy of the reconstructed spectrum exceeds the resolution.
Coherently averaged optical frequency comb spectroscopy with a single electro-optic modulator
Authors: Bresler S. M. , Reed Z. D. , Han K. , Hodges J. T. , Aksyuk V. A. , LeBrun T. W. , Long D. A.
Published: December 2024

We present a new, to the best of our knowledge, approach for self-heterodyne optical frequency comb (OFC) spectroscopy in which a single Mach–Zehnder modulator is utilized to generate both an optical frequency comb and a frequency-shifted local oscillator. This method allows for coherent, time-domain averaging to be performed without the need for feedback mechanisms or software corrections. As an initial demonstration, we have measured acetylene rovibrational transition frequencies with coherently averaged comb spectra. Spectra averaged for less than 10 s yielded standard fit uncertainties for transition frequencies of less than 150 kHz, with deviations from literature values under 1.1 MHz, limited by pressure uncertainty. This approach has important implications for high-resolution spectroscopy, trace gas detection, and on-chip integration of electro-optic frequency combs.
Ultrashort pulses in structural analysis of diamond layers with angstrom resolution
Authors: Makarov D. N. , Eseev M. K. , Gusarevich E. S. , Makarova K. A. , Borisov M. S.
Published: December 2024

X-ray crystallography is commonly used to determine crystal structures, whether continuous or ultrashort x rays are used. In this paper, it is shown that using only ultrashort pulses, it is possible to determine interplanar spacing in diamond layers, the distance between which can be only a few angstroms. The results obtained can be extended, with further development of the presented theory, to determine 3D objects in the crystal structure, the dimensions of which can be only a few angstroms.
Angle-independent topological interface states in one-dimensional photonic crystal heterostructures containing hyperbolic metamaterials
Authors: Wei Qian , Bi Dayu , Qi Xin , Ren Mina , Wu Feng
Published: December 2024

Topological interface states (TISs), known for their distinctive capabilities in manipulating electromagnetic waves, have attracted significant interest. However, in conventional all-dielectric one-dimensional photonic crystal (1DPC) heterostructures, TISs strongly depend on incident angle, which limits their practical applications. Here, we realize an angle-independent TIS in 1DPC heterostructures containing hyperbolic metamaterials (HMMs) for transverse magnetic polarized waves. We begin with the design of two kinds of angle-independent photonic bandgaps (PBGs) in two 1DPCs with symmetric unit cells based on the phase-variation compensation effect. From the Zak phases of the upper and lower bands, the topological properties of PBGs in two 1DPCs are different. By harnessing different topological properties, we can realize an angle-independent TIS in the heterostructure composed of these two 1DPCs. Moreover, we further discover that the angle-independent property of the TIS is robust against the layer thickness variation due to topological protection, making the experimental realization of the angle-independent TISs more feasible. It is noted that the TISs still depend on the incident angle under transverse electric polarized waves since the iso-frequency curve of the HMM is a circle. Empowered by the polarization-dependent property of the TIS, we design a wide-angle polarization selector with an operating angle range up to 45.9°. Our work provides a viable route to realizing angle-independent TISs with substantial angular tolerances under current experimental conditions, which facilitates the design of optical devices including polarizers, filters, and sensors with robustness against disorder.
Spatial variation in housing construction material in low- and middle-income countries: A Bayesian spatial prediction model of a key infectious diseases risk factor and social determinant of health
Authors: Colston Josh M. , Fang Bin , Nong Malena K. , Chernyavskiy Pavel , Annapareddy Navya , Lakshmi Venkataraman , Kosek Margaret N.
Published: December 2024

Housing infrastructure and quality is a major determinant of infectious disease risk and other health outcomes in regions where vector borne, waterborne and neglected tropical diseases are endemic. It is important to quantify the geographical distribution of improvements to dwelling components to identify and target resources towards populations at risk. This study aimed to model the sub-national spatial variation in housing materials using covariates with quasi-global coverage and use the resulting estimates to map predicted coverage across the world’s low- and middle-income countries. Data on materials used in dwelling construction were sourced from nationally representative household surveys conducted since 2005. Materials used for construction of flooring, walls, and roofs were reclassified as improved or unimproved. Households lacking location information were georeferenced using a novel methodology. Environmental and demographic spatial covariates were extracted at those locations for use as model predictors. Integrated nested Laplace approximation models were fitted to obtain, and map predicted probabilities for each dwelling component. The dataset compiled included information from households in 283,000 clusters from 350 surveys. Low coverage of improved housing was predicted across the Sahel and southern Sahara regions of Africa, much of inland Amazonia, and areas of the Tibetan plateau. Coverage of improved roofs and walls was high in the Central Asia, East Asia and Pacific and Latin America and the Caribbean regions. Improvements in all three components, but most notably floors, was low in Sub-Saharan Africa. The strongest determinants of dwelling component quality related to urbanization and economic development, suggesting that programs should focus on supply-side interventions, providing resources for housing improvements directly to the populations that need them. These findings are made available to researchers as files that can be imported into a GIS for integration into relevant analyses to derive improved estimates of preventable health burdens attributed to housing.
Prevalence, correlates, and mental and physical health burden of cardiovascular disease in older U.S. military veterans
Authors: Arechiga Cailin G. , Yang Rick , Pietrzak Robert H.
Published: December 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. and is associated with a range of demographic, military, trauma, and clinical characteristics, as well as physical and mental health conditions. Older military veterans may have an increased risk of CVD due to their advanced age and military experiences. To date, however, the prevalence and health burden of CVD in population-based samples of veterans has not been well characterized. This study aimed to characterize the current prevalence of CVD and its association with sociodemographic, military, trauma, and clinical variables in a large, contemporary, and nationally representative sample of older U.S. veterans. Data were analyzed from a cross-sectional sample of 3,001 older U.S. military veterans (aged 60 and older) who participated in the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study (NHRVS). Veterans were classified according to lifetime CVD status (CVD or no CVD, i.e., diagnoses by a healthcare professional of heart disease, heart attack, and/or stroke). To determine the association of CVD with health status, a comprehensive range of mental and physical health variables was assessed using validated self-report assessments. A total of 25.5% of veterans reported having been diagnosed with CVD. Greater age, cumulative trauma burden, nicotine use disorder, and diagnoses of hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes were associated with CVD. CVD was independently associated with a range of mental (odds ratios [ORs] = 1.53–2.27) and physical (ORs = 1.53–3.43) health conditions. Collectively, the results of this study suggest that one in four older U.S. veterans has report being diagnosed with CVD in their lifetimes. Given the broad range of physical and mental health conditions associated with CVD, these findings highlight the importance of integrated and multimodal prevention and intervention efforts for this population.
Fibered luminescent concentrator: A bridge between flashlamp devices and laser technologies for skin therapy
Authors: Le Blanc Catherine , Perrot Jean-Luc , Balembois François
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives

Laser skin therapy and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy are both light-based treatments used for various skin concerns. They have been used since decades and each system have their own specificity, advantages, and drawbacks. However specific treatment is still not accessible with standard techniques due to difficulties having a source with both laser and IPL advantages. We describe a new concept, the fibered luminescent concentrator—FLC, based on luminescent concentrators capable of concentrating spectrally and spatially an IPL source, resulting in a multi-color fibered device.

Study design/materials and methods

The FLC utilizes luminescent materials arranged in parallelepiped shapes polished on all faces. The IPL broadband spectrum is absorbed by the luminescent molecules and is re-emitted to a red shifted wavelength. The emitted spectral bandwidth ranges from green to dark red, depending on the type of luminescent concentrator. This light is then spatially concentrated by total internal reflections in the parallelepiped and guided through a fiber to the final operator.

Results

We have developed three different solid luminescent concentrators based on a transparent polymer sheet (PMMA) doped with luminescent organic dye molecules for yellow and red emission, and an alexandrite crystal for emission in the dark red spectrum. We demonstrate that our new non-laser FLC device can concentrate spectrally and spatially the light with no temporal deformation and offers real opportunities for treatments where the IPL is less well-adapted.

Conclusion

The FLC is an additional tool for existing conventional systems such as laser or IPL sources. It is easily adaptable to any IPL source and is a very good complement, especially for wavelengths where the laser cannot easily produce light, such as the yellow band.
It’s the AI’s fault, not mine: Mind perception increases blame attribution to AI
Authors: Joo Minjoo
Published: December 2024

Can artificial intelligences (AIs) be held accountable for moral transgressions? Current research examines how attributing human mind to AI influences the blame assignment to both the AI and the humans involved in real-world moral transgressions. We hypothesized that perceiving AI as having a human mind-like qualities would increase moral blame directed towards AI while decreasing blame attribution to human agents involved. Through three empirical studies—utilizing correlational methods with real-life inspired scenarios in Study 1 and employing experimental manipulations in Studies 2 and 3—our findings demonstrate that perceiving mind in AI increases the likelihood of blaming AIs for moral transgressions. We also explore whether it also diminishes the perceived culpability of human stakeholders, particularly the involved company. Our findings highlight the significance of AI mind perception as a key determinant in increasing blame attribution towards AI in instances of moral transgressions. Additionally, our research sheds light on the phenomenon of moral scapegoating, cautioning against the potential misuse of AI as a scapegoat for moral transgressions. These results emphasize the imperative of further investigating blame attribution assigned to AI entities.
Innovative population-based strategies for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease: A 2-year randomised control trial evaluating behavioral change led by community champions versus brief advice
Authors: Le Goff Delphine , Perraud Gabriel , Léon Mallaury , Aujoulat Paul , Guillou-Landreat Morgane , Nowak Emmanuel , Barais Marie , Le Reste Jean-Yves
Published: December 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) caused 17.9 million deaths worldwide in 2019. General CVD prevention should be developed whilst controlling health expenditure. The aim of the SPICES project was to assess the efficacy of a community support intervention for adults with intermediate CVD risk at 24 months, compared to repeated brief advice alone. A randomised, controlled study was conducted in a poor, medically underserved, rural area in France from November 2019 to November 2021. Community champions lead small group sessions. They were specifically trained in behavioural change techniques and CVD prevention. Participants chose their own small, feasible cardiovascular health goals. The primary outcome was the difference in the Non-laboratory Interheart risk score (INL) in intention-to-treat at 24 months. Quality of life was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF, diet using the DASH-questionnaire, physical activity using the IPAQ-short. Changes in BMI, smoking level, and self-declared alcohol consumption were recorded as health goals in the intervention group.1309 participants were eligible. 536 people were analysed. At 24 months, the difference Intervention–Control = -0.12 INL (95% CI -0.80 to 1.04) was not significant (p = 0.76). 257 people remained in the study. Most participants chose weight-loss as their objective. Although this study was impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, pertinent observations were made. Participants spontaneously chose to lose weight, which was not an effective goal. The study was neglected by participants which suggests this population felt little concerned about CVD-prevention. Other awareness strategies should be developed. Public policies should be developed as individuals currently fail to improve their health.

Trial registration: This trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT0388606).
EMG-assessed paratonia: A novel approach to investigating motor response inhibition in healthy subjects
Authors: Puce Luca , Marinelli Lucio , Currà Antonio , Mori Laura , Schenone Cristina , Cotellessa Filippo , Tatarelli Antonella , Pucci Daniele , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Trompetto Carlo
Published: December 2024

Paratonia is an involuntary muscle activity that occurs during passive joint mobilization and is common in people with dementia. It includes oppositional paratonia, in which muscle activity resists passive movement, and facilitatory paratonia, in which it assists movement. This phenomenon reflects a defect in motor response inhibition. In a recently published paper, we demonstrated that paratonia can be detected using surface electromyography (EMG) not only in patients with dementia but also in healthy individuals, the majority of whom do not exhibit clinically observable paratonia. This finding suggests that EMG-assessed paratonia may provide a novel approach to studying motor response inhibition in healthy subjects. The present study investigates this possibility for the first time. We recruited 120 healthy subjects under the age of 30, divided equally into three groups: sedentary, amateur, and professional athletes with low, moderate, and high levels of physical activity, respectively. Paratonia was assessed in the triceps and biceps brachii muscles during passive forearm movements performed manually. The results indicate that paratonia is more pronounced during fast and continuous passive movements, with facilitatory paratonia being more prevalent than oppositional paratonia. It is also more pronounced in the biceps than in the triceps. These findings, which mirror those previously observed in patients with dementia, suggest a similarity between paratonia in healthy subjects and those with cognitive impairment, supporting the hypothesis that paratonia in healthy individuals represents a form of impaired motor response inhibition. Furthermore, the comparison between groups showed that paratonia decreased with increasing physical activity, being least evident in athletes, more noticeable in amateurs, and most pronounced in sedentary individuals. This pattern confirms a key feature of motor response inhibition that has been shown in studies using traditional methods. Overall, our findings suggest that EMG-assessed paratonia provides a new method for studying motor response inhibition in healthy individuals.
Defining harmful news reporting on community firearm violence: A modified Delphi consensus study
Authors: Beard Jessica H. , Eschliman Evan L. , Wamakima Anita , Morrison Christopher N. , MacMillan Jim , Midberry Jennifer
Published: December 2024

Community firearm violence (CFV), including fatal and non-fatal shootings that result from interpersonal violence, disproportionately harms people from marginalized racial groups. News reporting on CFV can further exacerbate these harms. However, examining the effects of harmful news reporting on CFV on individuals, communities, and society is hindered by the lack of a consensus definition of harmful reporting on CFV. In this study, we aimed to define harmful reporting on CFV. We used a modified, three-round Delphi process to achieve consensus among diverse stakeholders. Round 1 sought to assess consensus on 12 potentially harmful news content elements for three levels of harm (individual, community, and society). Round 2 invited panelists to rate the severity of each news content element at each level of harm. Round 3 asked panelists to agree or disagree with the panel’s median severity rating of each element at each level of harm. Twenty-one panelists were recruited from three expertise groups (lived experience of CFV, journalism practice, scholarship) and all panelists completed all three rounds. In Round 1, no negative consensus was achieved for any of the proposed news content elements. In Round 2, panelists assigned moderate to severe harm ratings for all but two news content elements, and median harm ratings for each element varied across the different levels of harm. In Round 3, panelists reported high levels of agreement for each harm rating at each level. This modified Delphi process yielded a definition of the 12 elements that comprise harmful news reporting on CFV and severity ratings of harm caused by each element at each level according to expert consensus. Future work will use these results to evaluate and intervene on harmful reporting on CFV. Reducing harm from reporting on CFV can help address this health disparity and support evidence-based approaches to this urgent public health issue.
Editorial: Integrating class, culture and economics
Authors: O’Neill Deirdre
Published: December 2024

This editorial argues that it is futile and counterproductive to separate class, culture and economics, and the concept of ‘culture wars’ serves the purpose of deflecting from issues of class inequality. It insists that to understand the reproduction of social and economic power it is essential to consider class, culture and economics as integrated and dialectically dependent.
Bridging the social class gap: Experiences of working-class trainee clinical psychologists
Authors: Place Katie , Crew Teresa , Saville Christopher
Published: December 2024

The higher one’s social class status, the more likely one is to gain a place on the UK doctorate in clinical psychology (DClinPsy). Working-class trainees are a minority group in DClinPsy training and there are known detrimental impacts associated with being part of a minority group. The aim of this project was to capture the experiences of working-class trainee clinical psychologists when acculturating to UK DClinPsy training. Thematic analysis was used on the data collected from thirteen semi-structured interviews. A Bourdieusian and Yossosian framework and interactive acculturation model and social constructionist theoretic stance were adopted. There was a common trajectory that trainees described when acculturating to the profession (awareness of being different, shame and change, pride and embrace and integration of selves), one impacted by whether the respondents felt class was invisible (assumptions trainees are middle class, an unspoken social identity and unhelpful conversations) or visible (helpful conversations, being seen and represented) social identity during DClinPsy training. Leading to recommendations for DClinPsy courses to have clear structures that enable and facilitate helpful conversations about class. As well as ensuring support are structures available that can enrich trainees’ personal and professional identity development. Finally, having robust and transparent feedback channels allowing the course to adapt to meet working-class trainee’s needs.
Development of a deep learning-based 1D convolutional neural network model for cross-species natural killer T cell identification using peripheral blood mononuclear cell single-cell RNA sequencing data
Authors: Chokeshaiusaha Kaj , Sananmuang Thanida , Puthier Denis , Kedkovid Roongtham
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim: Natural killer T (NKT) cells exhibit the traits of both T and NK cells. Although their roles have been well studied in humans and mice, limited knowledge is available regarding their roles in dogs and pigs, which serve as models for human immunology. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) can elucidate NKT cell functions. However, identifying cells in mixed populations, like peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) is challenging using this technique. This study presented the application of one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1DCNN) for the identification of NKT cells within scRNA-seq data derived from PBMCs.

Materials and Methods: We used human scRNA-Seq data to train a 1DCNN model for cross-species identification of NKT cells in canine and porcine PBMC datasets. K-means clustering was used to isolate human NKT cells for training the 1DCNN model. The trained model predicted NKT cell subpopulations in PBMCs from all species. We performed Differential gene expression and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses to assess shared gene functions across species.

Results: We successfully trained the 1DCNN model on human scRNA-Seq data, achieving 99.3% accuracy, and successfully identified NKT cell candidates in human, canine, and porcine PBMC datasets using the model. Across species, these NKT cells shared 344 genes with significantly elevated expression (FDR ≤ 0.001). GO term enrichment analyses confirmed the association of these genes with the immunoactivity of NKT cells.

Conclusion: This study developed a 1DCNN model for cross-species NKT cell identification and identified conserved immune function genes. The approach has broad implications for identifying other cell types in comparative immunology, and future studies are needed to validate these findings.

Keywords: 1D convolutional neural network, K-means clustering, natural killer T cell, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, single-cell RNA sequencing.
Az automatizált stressztesztelés
Authors: Béli Marcell , Hoffer Tibor , Tóth Fanni
Published: December 2024

A tanulmányban azt vizsgáljuk, hogy egy automatizált
szoftvertesztelő rendszer megoldást tud-e nyújtani a szoftver
funkcionális tesztelése mellett a hatékony és pontos terheléses
tesztelésre. A stressztesztet gyakorlati példán, valós üzleti
problémán keresztül mutatjuk be: az FX Software Zrt. által
fejlesztett InFoRex rendszert vetjük terheléses teszt alá. A
stresszteszt futtatásának köszönhetően egy tisztább képet kaptunk
a rendszer határaival kapcsolatban. A teszt eredményei szerint
garantálható a rendszer megbízhatósága kritikus helyzetekben is,
míg az eredmények tárolására készített szoftver segítségével korán
észrevehetővé tehető, ha rossz irányba indul el egy fejlesztés.
Rávilágítunk, hogy drasztikusan kisebb erőforrásigény mellett
sokkal nagyobb terhelés alá tudunk vetni egy-egy szoftvert
automatizáltan, de ehhez azonban továbbra is szükség van emberi
kontrollra. Összességében a stresszteszt automatizálása hozzásegít
egy céget egy minőségi és stabil szoftver fejlesztéséhez, mindezt
alacsony erőforrás felhasználás mellett.
DIREITO À EDUCAÇÃO NAS PRISÕES:
Authors: Chagas Tiaga de Jesus Dias , Simões Helena Cristina Guimarães Queiroz
Published: December 2024

As políticas educacionais direcionadas às pessoas privadas de liberdade foram silenciadas por longo período no Brasil, considerando o intervalo de divulgação da Lei n. 7.210/1984 até as Diretrizes Nacionais para Educação nas Prisões, em 2009 e 2010. Após a publicação dessas Diretrizes Nacionais, foi instituído o Plano Estratégico de Educação no âmbito do Sistema Prisional, em 2011, cujo teor determina a elaboração dos planos estaduais de educação nas prisões. A partir desta determinação legal, este estudo busca apresentar essa política no Estado do Amapá, considerando o decênio entre o início da elaboração, em 2012, até a publicação da versão final do chamado Plano Estadual de Educação para Pessoas Privadas de Liberdade e Egressos do Sistema Penitenciário Amapaense (PEEPPLESP/AP), em 2022, além de seus reflexos na efetividade desse direito. Trata-se de uma pesquisa documental que busca compreender o (des)caminho para a garantia do direito à educação nas prisões, no extremo norte da Amazônia brasileira. Os resultados indicam a importância da regulamentação desse direito, mas prevalece o descumprimento da política educacional. A negação do direito ocorre em face de um conjunto de fatores de ordem administrativa (incluindo a unidade escolar, a Secretaria de Educação e o Instituto Penitenciário), política e pedagogicamente, que vem limitando a ampliação de vagas no sistema prisional do Estado do Amapá.
POR UMA EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA ESCOLAR CRÍTICA COMPROMETIDA COM A SENSIBILIDADE HUMANA
Authors: Martins Raphaell , Luan de Brito Cordeiro Lucas , Vale dos Santos Rodrigo
Published: December 2024

O ponto de enfoque nesta pesquisa diz respeito à compreensão da necessidade de um olhar para a sensibilidade humana na ação pedagógica da EFE, entendendo-a como um elemento constituinte da mesma. Contudo, há de se salientar que, diferente de alguns documentos de cunho tradicional ou neoliberal, estamos pautados em uma percepção crítica e com desejo de transformação social e emancipação dos sujeitos. Assim, o objetivo do estudo foi analisar a percepção de docentes de EFE acerca da função pedagógica da sensibilidade em suas aulas e quais os desdobramentos dessa postura na construção de uma EFE crítica. Optou-se por uma pesquisa qualitativa, investigando o fenômeno a partir de uma abordagem relacional, dialógica e colaborativa. Os sujeitos que colaboraram no estudo são estudantes do Mestrado Profissional em Educação Física em Rede Nacional (ProEF), que participaram de um Círculo Dialógico Investigativo-Formativo via Google Meet. Os resultados apontaram para três grandes categorias a saber: entrada no diálogo sobre a sensibilidade humana crítica nas aulas de Educação Física; solidificando a sensibilidade crítica como um elemento da ação pedagógica; diversificando a leitura da sensibilidade crítica na docência. A partir dos achados concluímos que, apesar de não ser considerada um elemento didático específico, existe uma valorização da sensibilidade crítica pelos docentes investigados apesar dos desafios surgidos a partir do embrutecimento no ambiente escolar por parte de outros agentes.
CONTRIBUIÇÕES PARA O ENSINO-APRENDIZAGEM CONTEXTUALIZADO DE BOTÂNICA NA EDUCAÇÃO PROFISSIONAL TÉCNICA DE NÍVEL MÉDIO
Authors: Soares Lisabel Maria , Costa Ivaneide Alves Soares da , Lichston Juliana Espada
Published: December 2024

Com o objetivo de colaborar com o desenvolvimento do ensino técnico profissionalizante de nível médio e facilitar o processo de aprendizagem de conceitos botânicos, foi conduzida uma pesquisa com alunos de uma turma concluinte do curso técnico em biocombustíveis, oferecido pelo Instituto Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (IFRN) - campus Apodi. Na primeira fase do estudo, um questionário semiestruturado foi utilizado para investigar as percepções dos alunos sobre botânica e seu conhecimento em relação à planta jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis (Link) Schneider). Na segunda fase, foi realizada uma oficina em que a jojoba foi empregada como recurso didático em uma sequência de ensino para promover a compreensão da botânica em contexto, associada ao potencial agronômico da espécie. As atividades conduzidas demonstraram ser efetivas na promoção do interesse dos participantes pela botânica, através de um método de ensino que envolveu a resolução de problemas, além de permitir a construção de novos conhecimentos sobre uma espécie previamente desconhecida em relação ao seu potencial como fonte de biomassa para a produção de biocombustíveis.
CARTA PEDAGÓGICA AOS GAÚCHOS E ÀS GAÚCHAS
Authors: Aguiar de LIma Cleiva , Machado Maria Elisabete
Published: December 2024

O artigo configura-se como uma Carta Pedagógica temática cuja finalidade é apresentar uma reflexão de duas educadoras. O contexto atual da tragédia ocorrida no Rio Grande do Sul é tomada como referência para discutir o papal da educação como ato político. A relação entre o ambiente e a sociedade é colocada em questão visto o agravamento da crise ambiental em tempos de aquecimento global. Endereçada aos gaúchos e às gaúchas, a Carta Pedagógica objetiva também, de modo sensível, mostrar a importância da escrita e da esperança para contribuir na superação das dificuldades decorrentes do ocorrido.
Multidisciplinary Approach Improves Eradication Rate and Safety in Refractory Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Dai Na , Zhao Yu-Qin , Wu Wen-Juan , Shen Zheng-Lin , Xu Yan-Hua , Wu Xiao-Yang , Zhang Gui-Zhen , Wang Lan , Wang Qing-Hua
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection is prevalent worldwide and contributes to various gastrointestinal diseases. Eradication therapy is crucial in managing HP infection, but antibiotic resistance has led to refractory cases, complicating treatment outcomes and increasing the risk of adverse events. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary approach, termed HP Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) Clinic, in improving eradication rates and safety in patients with refractory HP infection.

METHODS:

Between November 2020 and November 2023, 153 patients with refractory HP infection were included, with 51 patients in the non–HP-MDT group and 102 patients in the HP-MDT group. The HP-MDT clinic provided personalized treatment plans, patient education, and follow-up. Genetic testing was conducted in selected cases to assess resistance patterns.

RESULTS:

Patients attending the HP-MDT clinic showed significantly higher eradication rates compared with those in the non–HP-MDT group (80.39% vs 50.98%, P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis confirmed that HP-MDT clinic attendance was independently associated with higher eradication rates (odds ratio: 4.43, 95% CI: 2.02 to 9.71, P < 0.001). Genetic testing revealed high rates of antibiotic resistance, particularly to clarithromycin (10/11, 90.91%) and metronidazole (11/11, 100%). Despite resistance, the HP-MDT approach achieved a high eradication rate of 92.31%. Adverse drug reactions occurred in 12.75% of patients in the HP-MDT group, predominantly mild gastrointestinal symptoms.

DISCUSSION:

The HP-MDT clinic, integrating medical, pharmaceutical, and nursing expertise, significantly improved eradication rates and safety in patients with refractory HP infection. Personalized treatment plans, patient education, and genetic testing contributed to successful outcomes with minimal adverse events.
Inter-annual variations of summertime plankton communities in Sishili Bay, Northern Yellow Sea, China
Authors: Jiang Huichao , Liu Ning , Ma Yuanqing , Yang Guohua , Qin Huawei , He Jianlong , Cheng Ling , Zhang Juan , Tao Huimin , Gu Weili , Dong Xiaoxiao , Li Zhilin
Published: December 2024

With an intensive increase in anthropogenic activities, plankton communities in coastal areas show deterioration, such as shifts from diatom-dominated to more dinoflagellates and cyanobacteria, and increasing gelatinous zooplankton. To further understand the dynamic changes in plankton communities under anthropogenic activities in coastal areas, a multi-annual survey comprising nine cruises in summer during 2012–2020 was conducted in Sishili Bay, China. The results showed that the phytoplankton community in Sishili Bay was mainly dominated by diatoms, with an abundance of 94.86%; copepods were the dominant taxa in the zooplankton community, accounting for 64.57% of the total abundance, followed by zooplankton larvae (24.74%) including bivalvia, copepoda nauplius, ophiopluteus, etc, whereas other taxonomic groups, such as cladocerans, tunicates, chaetoganatha, cnidarians, protozoa, mysidacea, and ctenophores only accounted for 10.69% of the total abundance. Noticeable changes were observed in the plankton community, accompanied by some signals of community deterioration: dinoflagellates presented an increasing trend compared with that in diatoms; zooplankton larvae and gelatinous organisms also displayed apparent increasing trends. Restriction of dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) combined with an increase in total phosphorus was conducive to a proportional increase in dinoflagellates. Overall, these results suggest that sea reclamation and marine cage aquaculture have promoted an increase in gelatinous organisms. The observed juvenilization of zooplankton might be driven by a trophic cascade effect caused by an increase in carnivorous zooplankton. Overall, the present study highlights the importance of anthropogenic activities affecting plankton inter-annual changes and suggests that the nutrient structure and control of anthropogenic activities should be investigated in detail for the protection and restoration of marine ecological environments.
Possible lessons on rapid assessment of fish kills in cages in Lake Victoria, Kenya for informed decision making
Authors: Aura Christopher Mulanda , Ntiba Micheni Japhet
Published: December 2024

Cage aquaculture is quickly expanding in the African Great Lakes Region, with the potential of boosting fish output and acting as a source of food security, poverty reduction, job and wealth creation. However, the proliferation of fish cages in Lake Victoria has come along with sporadic fish kills especially in the shallow zones of the lake in specifically the months of September to November each year and whose documentation is key for future references in case such occurrences reoccur. This paper indicates and discusses results from a rapid assessment of recent fish kills in the years 2021 and 2022 and sheds some light on the possible causes of the fish kills using standard methods and proposes mitigation measures moving forward. Low dissolved oxygen levels (≤ 4.0 mg L-1) instigated by increased eutrophication and upwelling are noted as the main causes of the fish kills. The application of good aquaculture practices for fish cage culture husbandry, application of guidelines as well as fast-tracking and enforcement of regulations will promote sustainable cage farming in such lacustrine systems.
Effect of malachite green on post-exposure filtration rate of Blood Clam Barbartia virescens (Reeve 1844)
Authors: Mandario Mary Anne E. , Añasco Nathaniel C. , Koyama Jiro , Balinas Vicente T.
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of malachite green on the post-exposure filtration rate of Blood Clam, Barbatia virescens. Blood Clams were collected from the rocky coast and acclimated to laboratory conditions for 18 days. Bioassays were conducted wherein Blood Clams were exposed for 24 h to a clean medium (no malachite green), 0.06 mg l-1 malachite green, 0.32 mg l-1 malachite green, 5.06 mg l-1 malachite green, and then to the same concentrations for 48 h. Filtration rate in all concentrations and malachite green-exposure durations were determined at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 h. Blood Clams exposed for 24 h and 48 h to 0.32 and 5.06 mg l-1 had significantly lower filtration rates than the control (p <0.05). Similarly, those exposed to 0.06 mg l-1 for 48 h showed significant reduction in their filtration rates. The lower rate was associated with longer exposure to malachite green. In addition, Blood Clams exposed for 48 h were not able to improve their filtration rate, although they were transferred to a clean medium for 6 h. The green colouration on Blood Clams’ muscles was also not eliminated. These findings suggest the ecological risk of malachite green to bivalves and its implications to the health of sessile coastal organisms.
Necropolítica do ciborgue
Authors: Martins Eduardo Espindola Braud , Viana Rodrigo Ferreira
Published: December 2024

Este artigo emprega uma visão de linguagem ciborgue e coletiva (Martins; Viana, 2019) para explorar a atuação de Inteligências Artificiais atuais enquanto dispositivos que contribuem para o estabelecimento de ontologias raciais e políticas de morte de corpos racializados. A análise se dá a partir do ChatGPT, popular ferramenta de Inteligência Artificial da OpenAI, e dos modos como esse dispositivo sustenta e fortifica as narrativas neoliberais e as políticas de inimizade contemporâneas. Para tanto, utilizaremos os conceitos de ciborgue (Haraway, 2009[1991]) e a Teoria Ator-Rede (Latour, 2012) para complexificar os entendimentos acerca da linguagem, bem como os conceitos de necropolítica (Mbembe, 2018[2003]) e governamentalidade neoliberal (Dardot; Laval, 2016) para compreender a ação de entidades maquínicas na atualidade. Defendemos que tais discussões precisam ser expandidas para burlar, borrar e hackear ideologias que versam sobre uma ontologia precisa entre humanos/não-humanos, uma vez que são tais imaginários que permitem a produção e perpetuação dessas mesmas opressões.
Comorbidity of sialorrhea and depression in patients with Parkinson's disease, their mutual influence on the severity of symptoms and the success of therapy
Authors: Zakharov D. V. , Kokareva D. D.
Published: December 2024

Depression and sialorrhea are among the most common and distressing non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease at all stages of the disease. They impair the patient's quality of life and ability to function and mutually reinforce each other in the context of comorbidity. To date, the exact pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the development of these conditions and the contribution of dopaminergic regulatory system dysfunctions to their development are unclear. Although there are established methods to treat both depression and sialorrhea, there is still no recommended standardized therapeutic approach to correct their combination in Parkinson's disease with the possibility of reducing polypharmacy. Botulinum toxin therapy has several potential advantages and is considered a possible universal remedy for achieving stable remission of these disorders.
Central lumbar stenosis. Recommendations of the Russian Association for the Study of Pain (RASP)
Authors: Parfenov V. A. , Davydov O. S. , Churyukanov M. V. , Golovacheva V. A. , Evzikov G. Yu. , Isaikin A. I. , Bakhtadze M. A.
Published: December 2024

Narrowing of the central spinal canal in the lumbar spine (central lumbar stenosis, CLS) is one of the most common causes of lumbar pain, disability and spinal surgery in the elderly. The most common is acquired degenerative CLS, in which the main role play lumen-narrowing medial intervertebral disc herniating with ossification phenomena and marginal bone proliferation on the sides of the vertebral bodies – osteophytes, hypertrophy of the facet joints with their medial displacement, hypertrophy of the yellow ligament. The development of CLS can also be a consequence of spondylolisthesis, postoperative changes, rheumatic diseases and other causes. Both the compression of the cauda equine roots due to narrowing of the spinal canal and their ischemia, caused by compression of the radicular vessels and venous congestion play an important role in the pathogenesis of CLS. CLS develops in elderly age and occurs predominantly in men. The main clinical manifestation of CLS is neurogenic (caudogenic) intermittent claudication, which manifests as pain, numbness and weakness in the legs when the patient walks or stands for a long time but subsides when the patient sits or stands and bends forwards (flexion in the lumbar spine). The diagnosis of CLS is confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which shows a narrowing of the spinal canal and makes it possible to rule out specific causes of lumbar pain. It is important to note that, according to MRI, CLS often occurs at an older age, so its detection in the absence of clinical manifestations does not require an immediate discussion of the prospects of surgical treatment. Pain in patients with CLS according to MRI may be musculoskeletal in nature. Therefore, the diagnosis of CLS should include specific clinical manifestations and stenosis on MRI. In patients without clinical manifestations of CLS, osteoporosis and severe concomitant somatic diseases, only conservative therapy is recommended. Modern conservative treatment of CLS includes an educational program, therapeutic exercises (kinesiotherapy), psychological therapy methods for emotional disorders (cognitive-behavioral therapy), manual therapy and pharmacotherapy. Complex conservative treatment of CLS can reduce pain, improve the patient's condition and in some cases increase the patient's walking distance.
Sonication Enhancement of Capsaicin Formation in Callus of Chili Pepper, Capsicum annuum L.
Authors: Masyab Hikmat M.
Published: December 2024

The current study investigates the induction of callus from leaf explants of chili pepper Capsicum annuum L. coupled with the isolation of capsaicin from alcoholic extracts. To determine which isolated alkaloid has a positive reaction, the DragenDroff test is used. Alkaloid is identified using conventional diagnostic techniques, such as measuring the absorbance values of the isolated alkaloid with an ultraviolet spectrophotometer, the alkaloid is identified. The results show a complete identity among them, and with control. Thin layer  chromatography data showed a 0.8 cm distance between one location from each tested sample with the same rate, which is 0.8 cm from the control’s rate flow value. The chemical structure of studied samples is subsequently determined using nuclear magnetic resonance, which reveals similarities between the isolated alkaloid’s structure and standard capsaicin. A quantitative analysis of the isolated alkaloids revealed variations in the amounts for generated explants relative to other explants. This study shows that fruits are the most effective source of alkaloids. It’s interesting to note that the composition of the explant and the sonicated callus are identical. Since capsaicin discovery, it is used as a homeopathic remedy to treat burning pain using the concept of “treating like with like” or counterirritant, relieve minor pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis or muscle sprains and strains and due to large consumption of this fruit recently, the current study done to find out the structure and quantity.
Correlation Between Lipoprotein(a) and Prognosis for Coronary Artery Disease in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: ShaMa Azhi , Ma Chunlan , Huang Yingying , Hu Jingyue , Xu Chunmei , Li Zhuxin , Wang Jing , Zeng Chunyu
Published: December 2024

Background:

Elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) is a risk factor for first atherosclerotic thrombosis events, but the role of elevated Lp(a) in secondary prevention is controversial. This study aimed to retrospectively investigate the influence of elevated Lp(a) levels on the prognosis of patients with coronary artery disease.

Methods:

The team collected and compared clinical information of patients hospitalized during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study used a multivariate logistic regression model to evaluate the relationships between Lp(a) levels, cardiovascular risk factors, and the prognosis of coronary artery disease in patients undergoing PCI.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences between patients grouped according to Lp(a) level in terms of sex; age; body mass index and obesity; hyperuricemia; smoking; cardiac insufficiency; acute myocardial infarction; multivessel lesion; in-stent restenosis; secondary PCI; apolipoprotein AI level; incidence of high total cholesterol or high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; or family history of hypertension, diabetes, or coronary artery disease. The average Lp(a) concentration did not statistically significantly decrease after 1 year of statin treatment after PCI. One year after patients began statins, there were no significant differences between Lp(a) groups in the incidence of high triglycerides (P = .13), high total cholesterol (P = .52), or high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = .051). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that diabetes (P = .02) was associated with in-stent restenosis, whereas diabetes (P = .02) and multivessel lesions (P < .001) were associated with secondary PCI in patients who underwent coronary angiography 1 year after PCI. Compared with normal Lp(a) levels, high Lp(a) levels did not significantly increase the incidence of in-stent restenosis or secondary PCI in patients who underwent coronary angiography 1 year after PCI.

Conclusion:

Sustained high concentrations of Lp(a) did not significantly increase the incidence of in-stent restenosis or secondary PCI in patients who underwent coronary angiography 1 year after PCI.