bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Succession and climatic stochasticity induce long-term decline of a forest browser
Authors: Long Eric S. , Tham Enoch J. , Ferrer Ryan P.
Published: February 2024

Removal of predators and creation of early seral habitat have, in many systems, caused substantial population growth of herbivores. Hyperabundant herbivores, in turn, induce cascading ecosystem effects, but few studies have investigated long-term browser density trends in relation to succession and stochastic climate events. Here, we use annual, empirical population estimates of a forest browser to relate forest succession to long-term decline of an herbivore that prefers early seral habitat. From 2007–2021, concurrent with reduced timber harvest, we used line-transect distance sampling to document annual changes in Columbian black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) density on a mid-sized (17.3km2) predator-free island. We documented successional changes associated with forest aggradation and decreased forage quality for deer: early successional shrub/scrub habitat declined 3.8%/year; timber volume increased 4.5%/year; and canopy coverage increased 2.5%. In 2007–2008, deer densities were the greatest observed (~44/km2), but then an historic snowstorm reduced deer density by 39%. From 2010–2021, as forests continued to mature, deer density decreased 4.0%/year, declining to 20 deer/km2. Using a multivariate approach to combine habitat variables (i.e., early seral coverage, timber volume, and canopy closure) into a measure of forest maturation, we found a significant negative relationship between deer density and forest aggradation. Thus, consistent with predictions for bottom-up limited browsers, we observed significant annual declines in a deer population throughout an extended period of forest regrowth. Despite declines, deer density on the island exceeds mainland densities, and overbrowsing likely continues to disrupt ecosystem processes.
Two-dimensional inverse problem of fire location in the closed goaf of coal mine based on optical fiber sensors
Authors: Liu Yujiao , Chen Lu , Wang Kaiping , Liu Zeyi , Zhang Yao , Shi Lianzeng , Gao Ke , Yang Zemiao
Published: February 2024

Monitoring the temperature to determine the fire source locations is essential for controlling the spontaneous combustion in the goaf. Optical fiber sensors are employed to measure the temperature distribution in the goaf. However, due to changes in the geological conditions and the influence of the falling rocks in the goaf, only sensors on the upper side of the uncompacted goaf, due to inclination and coal pillar, may remain. Unilateral sensors are located on the upper side of the goaf, while fire occurs in the center. To investigate the issue with linear unilateral sensors, a two-dimensional inverse method has been developed to determine the location of fire sources by considering heat transfer after a fire inside the goaf. The equations were theoretically solved using Green’s function method to obtain the internal temperature distribution of the physical model of the goaf. Sensitivity analysis identified the most crucial parameters in the process of spontaneous heating at different temperature. The fire source location can be determined using a loop method based on the model calculations. We considered a case to validate the model. Accurately identifying the fire source location in the goaf using the unilateral sensors has an essential theoretical and practical significance for fire prevention and fighting.
CONSUMO E GASTOS COM MEDICAMENTOS DO COMPONENTE ESPECIALIZADO DA ASSISTÊNCIA FARMACÊUTICA NO BRASIL NO PERÍODO DE 2012 A 2021
Authors: Bazoni Patrícia Silva , Faria Ronaldo José , Santos Jéssica Barreto Ribeiro dos , Barbalho Ingridy Marina Pierre , Silva Michael Ruberson Ribeiro da
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Estimar o consumo e gastos com os medicamentos do Componente Especializado da Assistência Farmacêutica (CEAF) no Brasil. Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo de séries temporais, com base em dados sobre o consumo e  gastos com os medicamentos do CEAF no Brasil, no período de 2012 a 2021. Os dados deste estudo foram extraídos por meio do Sistema de Informação Ambulatorial do Sistema Único de  Saúde (SIA/SUS) e do Sistema de Informações sobre Orçamentos Públicos em Saúde (SIOPS). Resultados: Foram identificadas diferenças importantes na contabilização dos gastos com medicamentos do CEAF pelo SIA/SUS e SIOPS, sendo que os gastos do SIA/SUS estavam subestimados em relação aos registrados no SIOPS. De acordo com o SIA/SUS, a região Sudeste foi a que apresentou maiores  gastos com os medicamentos do CEAF, seguida das regiões Sul, Nordeste, Centro-Oeste e Norte. Além disso, quando se verifica as quantidades de unidades farmacêuticas adquiridas, foi observado um aumento gradativo com o passar dos anos (2012 - 2021). Conclusão: Os gastos com os medicamentos do CEAF mantiveram-se estacionários ao longo dos anos. Em contrapartida, identificou-se tendência de aumento das unidades farmacêuticas adquiridas ao longo dos anos, o que aponta para eficiência na utilização dos recursos públicos.
CONSEQUÊNCIAS DA INTENSIFICAÇÃO DOS USOS DA TERRA NOS PROCESSOS EROSIVOS LINEARES NO SUDESTE GAÚCHO
Authors: Sampaio Pedro Vieira , Passos Matheus Midon dos , Alves Edvania Aparecida Corrêa
Published: February 2024

Ao longo do tempo, a pressão sobre o solo cresceu de modo contínuo, provocando a intensificação dos processos erosivos naturais, questão que constitui um dos principais problemas ambientais contemporâneos. Neste contexto, o presente artigo verificou os efeitos que as mudanças nos usos da terra associados às características físicas relacionadas aos solos e à declividade do alto curso da bacia hidrográfica do Arroio Quilombo, causaram no comportamento das feições erosivas lineares nos anos de 2010 e de 2016, bem como explorou quais fatores foram mais determinantes para tal comportamento. Através do mapeamento das feições e do cruzamento com os demais planos de informação (solos, declividade e coberturas e usos da terra), verificou-se que a substituição da vegetação natural do bioma Pampa por cultivos agrícolas é acompanhada, na área de estudo, pelo incremento de processos erosivos lineares em solos naturalmente frágeis. Os usos da terra são intensos o suficiente para abrandar a influência da declividade nos processos erosivos bem como para intensificar estes processos apesar do aumento das áreas florestais no período avaliado. Caso medidas de conservação e de recuperação não sejam tomadas, a própria produção agrícola regional, marcada pelo predomínio da agricultura familiar, pode ser afetada.
Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Bahagia Market on Kuala Dua Village Subdistrict Sungai Raya
Authors: Fitri Shintiya Murhaliza , Apriani Isna , Fitrianingsih Yulisa
Published: February 2024

Location of Bahagia Market on K.H. Abdurrahman Wahid streets, Kubu Raya regency. Bahagia Market has been operation for two years but doesn’t have wastewater treatment, the liquid waste product is discharged directly into the waters. The purpose of this plan is to knowing the discharge of wastewater generated, so the treatment is adjusted to the quality of wastewater and the available land area, as well as calculating cost budget. Planning methods is area survey, data collection, waste inventory, sampling, quality analysis, calculation of wastewater discharge, planning of wastewater treatment, and calculation of cost budget. The planning results are Bahagia market has 11 stalls, 64 loss and 43 tables with 3 drains. The liquid of wastewater come from the washing of vegetables, fish, meats, and poultry. BOD, COD, TSS, and ammonia parameters are above quality standards, while total coliform, fat and oil are below quality standards. Wastewater treatment project for the 5 next years starting from 2023 to 2027 with wastewater effluent is 8640 liters/days. Treatment unit use are sump well, bar screen, rotating biological contactor, settling basins, disinfection tub, and sludge drying bed with a land area of 5 m2 and a cost budget of Rp. 69,315,479.
Analysis of Exhaust Gas Emission of Motor Vehicles with Variations of Fuel Types
Authors: Suryati Isra , Indrawan Ivan , Samuel Lubis Jonathan , Tanjung Munir , Setyowaty Lies
Published: February 2024

The discrepancy between the use of vehicle fuel types and the vehicle's technical specifications is expected to affect exhaust emissions. This study aims to examine the effect of using four types of fuel with different octane number specifications on two four-wheeled motor vehicles with an EFI fuel delivery system on exhaust gas emission parameters of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC), carbon dioxide (CO2) and non-emitting gases Oxygen (O2). With a quantitative experimental approach method using the Automotive Emission Analyzer and simple linear regression analysis, the results showed that the use of variations with octane numbers RON 98, RON 92, RON 90, and RON 88 fuels at the same time as variations in engine speed (1000 – 3000) RPM showed an effect on concentration. HC and CO emissions decreased with each increase in the octane number of fuel, RON 92 fuel with the lowest average CO / HC (0.0013% / 0.46 ppm) and RON 98 with the lowest average CO / HC (0.0026% / 0 ppm). The use of RON 92 fuel is more effective and inexpensive to apply to vehicles with an EFI fuel delivery system (with compression of 1:10/10.2) compared to RON 98 fuel which emits higher CO and HC emissions at low engine speed (1000 -1500) RPM.
Ceratobasidium sp isolates from native orchid species of Western Ghats, India support enhanced growth of Phalaenopsis hybrid seedlings
Authors: Suresh Lekshmi , S Shailajakumari , Decruse S. William
Published: February 2024

Mycorrhiza-assisted cultivation of orchid seedlings has immense potential for enhanced growth and adaptability of orchids to facilitate conservation and cultivation with minimum application of nutrients and plant protection chemicals. Phalaenopsis hybrids are highly attractive and cultivated mostly as potted orchid plants and are prone to several fungal pathogens. The present study evaluates the effect of 4 orchid symbionts in combination with NPK fertilizer on the seedling growth of symbiotic seedlings of Phalaenopsis white and day-star hybrids under ex-vitro conditions. Four fungal isolates viz., Ceratobasidium_Wyd2 (MW595786; MTCC13384), Ceratobasidium_Idk (MW595787: MTCC13383), Ceratobasidium_Vs1 (OL374050; MTCC13377) and Ceratobasidium _Vs2 (OL374052: MTCC13378) grown on sterilized coir pith medium for 10 days and were transferred onto earthen pots for planting of seedlings. One-year-old seedlings used for the study possessed an average 2.70 g fresh weight. On conclusion of the experiment, after 6 months, the seedlings of day-star hybrid grown in the presence of both fungus and NPK fertilizer exhibited enhanced growth compared to either of them applied individually. The highest weight gain was supported by VS1 (12.4±1.8 g) followed by VS2 (10.7± 4.6 g) and Wyd2 (9.8±1.7 g). Those fungi also supported appreciable growth individually, giving 6.5±3.1, 6.9±2.2, and 6.5±0.8 g weight gain respectively. If the nutrient alone was applied, the weight gain was very low (2.8±0.9 g) nearly equal to control (1.8±1.8 g) without having fungi or nutrients. The mycorrhizae re-isolated from the roots of seedlings exhibiting enhanced growth were confirmed as Vs1 and Vs2 through sequencing of the ITS region. Formulation of a potting medium including Ceratobasidium species isolates VS1 and VS2 is thus possible to grow Phalaenopsis seedlings to get enhanced growth.
Cathepsin X deficiency alters the processing and localisation of cathepsin L and impairs cleavage of a nuclear cathepsin L substrate
Authors: Xu Bangyan , Anderson Bethany M. , Mountford Simon J. , Thompson Philip E. , Mintern Justine D. , Edgington-Mitchell Laura E.
Published: February 2024

Proteases function within sophisticated networks. Altering the activity of one protease can have sweeping effects on other proteases, leading to changes in their activity, structure, specificity, localisation, stability, and expression. Using a suite of chemical tools, we investigated the impact of cathepsin X, a lysosomal cysteine protease, on the activity and expression of other cysteine proteases and their inhibitors in dendritic cells. Among all proteases examined, cathepsin X gene deletion specifically altered cathepsin L levels; pro-cathepsin L and its single chain accumulated while the two-chain form was unchanged. This effect was recapitulated by chemical inhibition of cathepsin X, suggesting a dependence on its catalytic activity. We demonstrated that accumulation of pro- and single chain cathepsin L was not due to a lack of direct cleavage by cathepsin X or altered glycosylation, secretion, or mRNA expression but may result from changes in lysosomal oxidative stress or pH. In the absence of active cathepsin X, nuclear cathepsin L and cleavage of the known nuclear cathepsin L substrate, Lamin B1, were diminished. Thus, cathepsin X activity selectively regulates cathepsin L, which has the potential to impact the degree of cathepsin L proteolysis, the nature of substrates that it cleaves, and the location of cleavage.
A study on intelligent translation of English sentences by a semantic feature extractor
Authors: Jiang Shulun
Published: February 2024

In order to enhance the performance of machine translation, this article briefly introduced algorithms that can be used to extract semantic feature vectors. Then, the aforementioned algorithms were integrated with the encoder–decoder translation algorithm, and the resulting algorithms were subsequently tested. First, the performance of the semantic recognition of the long short-term memory (LSTM)-based semantic feature extractor was tested, followed by a comparison with the translation algorithm that does not include semantic features, as well as the translation algorithm that incorporates convolutional neural network-extracted semantic features. The findings demonstrated that the LSTM-based semantic feature extractor accurately identified the semantics of the source language. The proposed translation algorithm, which is based on LSTM semantic features, achieved more accurate translations compared to the other two algorithms. Furthermore, it was less affected by the length of the source language.
Electrically tunable plasmonic metasurface as a matrix of nanoantennas
Authors: Mayoral Astorga Luis Angel , Shabaninezhad Masoud , Northfield Howard , Ntais Spyridon , Rashid Sabaa , Lisicka-Skrzek Ewa , Mehrvar Hamid , Bernier Eric , Goodwill Dominic , Ramunno Lora , Berini Pierre
Published: February 2024

We report the fabrication and characterization of a plasmonic metasurface comprising electrically-contacted sub-wavelength gold dipole nanoantennas, conformally coated by a thin hafnia film, an indium tin oxide layer and a backside mirror, forming metal–oxide–semiconductor (MOS) capacitors, for use as an electrically-tunable reflectarray or metasurface. By voltage biasing the nanoantennas through metallic connectors and leveraging the carrier refraction effect in the MOS capacitors, our measurements demonstrate phase control in reflection over a range of about 30°, with a constant magnitude of reflection coefficient of 0.5, and the absence of secondary lobes. Comprehensive electromagnetic and quantum carrier models of the structure are developed and are in excellent agreement with the measurements. The metasurface holds promise for use as an optical phased array.
Sample-efficient inverse design of freeform nanophotonic devices with physics-informed reinforcement learning
Authors: Park Chaejin , Kim Sanmun , Jung Anthony W. , Park Juho , Seo Dongjin , Kim Yongha , Park Chanhyung , Park Chan Y. , Jang Min Seok
Published: February 2024

Finding an optimal device structure in the vast combinatorial design space of freeform nanophotonic design has been an enormous challenge. In this study, we propose physics-informed reinforcement learning (PIRL) that combines the adjoint-based method with reinforcement learning to improve the sample efficiency by an order of magnitude compared to conventional reinforcement learning and overcome the issue of local minima. To illustrate these advantages of PIRL over other conventional optimization algorithms, we design a family of one-dimensional metasurface beam deflectors using PIRL, exceeding most reported records. We also explore the transfer learning capability of PIRL that further improves sample efficiency and demonstrate how the minimum feature size of the design can be enforced in PIRL through reward engineering. With its high sample efficiency, robustness, and ability to seamlessly incorporate practical device design constraints, our method offers a promising approach to highly combinatorial freeform device optimization in various physical domains.
Antibacterial, mechanical, and dielectric properties of hydroxyapatite cordierite/zirconia porous nanocomposites for use in bone tissue engineering applications
Authors: Khoshaim Ahmed B. , Moustafa Essam B. , Youness Rasha A.
Published: February 2024

We made nanocomposites with different amounts of hydroxyapatite (HA), cordierite (Cord), and zirconia (ZrO2), then sinterized them and studied them using X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Additionally, the bioactivity of the sintered samples was assessed in vitro following treatment with simulated bodily fluid (SBF), and FESEM was used to validate the creation of the HA layer on their surfaces. Measurements were also made for mechanical and antibacterial properties. All materials' electrical and dielectric characteristics were assessed before and after being treated with SBF solution. All of the samples that were studies had porosity increases of about 7.14, 22.44, 43.87, and 73.46%. This was because the sintering temperature was lowered while the concentration of ZrO2 in the samples increased. Also, the microhardness got 5.35, 14.28, 28.57, and 55.35% better because there was more ZrO2 and Cord in the samples than in the sample that did not have them. In addition, the compressive strength of all studied samples followed this trend, as it increased by 2.81, 7.79, 17.74, and 34.32% due to the reasons mentioned above. Furthermore, the electrical conductivity of the tested samples decreased as they increased their ZrO2 and Cord contents. The bioactivity of the research materials also somewhat decreased as the concentrations of Cord and ZrO2 were enhanced over time. Due to the magnesium (Mg2+) ions found in Cord's composition and the samples' porousness, which aided in forming an apatite layer on their surface, their bioactivity behavior was slightly reduced. All the samples that were looked at had a strong antibacterial effect on Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis bacteria), which stopped their growth to a point between 2.33–3.30 mm. These results supported the notion that the generated porous nanocomposites have great potential for use in bone tissue engineering.
Ascites does not accompany pleural effusion developing under dasatinib therapy in patients with CML-CP
Authors: Küçükyurt Selin , Eşkazan Tuğçe , Ayer Mesut , Kılıçkıran Avcı Burçak , Hatemi İbrahim , Eşkazan Ahmet Emre
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Pleural effusion (PE) is the most frequent pulmonary complication of dasatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). Concurrent pericardial effusions have been reported in about one-third of the cases. In this study, we aimed to investigate ascites generation in chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML-CP) patients developing PE under dasatinib.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study to evaluate whether pericardial effusion and ascites accompany PE in CML-CP patients treated with dasatinib. For this purpose, consecutive patients with CML-CP who developed PE under dasatinib therapy have been evaluated with chest X-ray, transthoracic echocardiography, and abdominal ultrasonography.

Results

There were seven patients, and the median age was 50 years (range, 31–73 years). Most of patients were male (n=5). All patients received imatinib as first-line TKI. Six patients received dasatinib following imatinib failure in second line. The median duration from dasatinib initiation to PE generation was 58 months (range, 8–135 months). Consequently, four patients had grade 1 pericardial effusion, and no patient had ascites.

Conclusions

In our small study, dasatinib-related PE was associated with low-grade pericardial effusion but no ascites. There are hypothetical explanations of this phenomenon including the simultaneous activation/inhibition of kinases; however, more research needs to be performed on this topic.
Doubly reflected generalized BSDEs with jumps and an obstacle problem of parabolic IPDEs with nonlinear Neumann boundary conditions
Authors: Elhachemy Mohammed , El Otmani Mohamed
Published: February 2024

A one-dimensional generalized backward stochastic differential equation with jumps and two barriers is the main objective of this paper.
When the generators are monotone and the barriers are right continuous with left limits and completely separated, we prove the existence and uniqueness of a solution.
As in application, we provide a probabilistic interpretation of a solution of a double obstacle problem of second-order parabolic integral-partial differential equations with nonlinear Neumann boundary conditions.
Visual frames in promotional video: a semiotic analysis of What is Peppa?
Authors: Zhang Huiyu , Wei Yuanhong
Published: February 2024

In January 2019, What is Peppa?, a promotional video for a Chinese New Year movie, received widespread attention in China immediately after its release. This paper explains the success of the video from the perspective of visual framing, and employs Systemic Visual Grammar to analyze how visual semiotics are applied to frame prominent topics so as to achieve promotional purposes. The results show that: (i) visual semiotics are used to frame the topic of empty nesters, implying that this issue brings negative consequences and evoking the audience’s empathy and concern; (ii) visuals frame the topic of family love, in which the main protagonist’s actions are highlighted; and (iii) the topic of family reunion is mainly framed and realized by delicate compositional arrangements. Using various visual semiotics at the denotative, stylistic-semantic, connotative, and ideological levels, this video establishes both visual and emotional communication between the main character and the audience, making the promotional purpose more successful. The results highlight and specify the important roles of visual frames in promotional videos, and the integration of Peppa with traditional Chinese culture, love, and family reunion represents a visual approach to glocalization.
OSMANLI DEVLETİ’NDE DİN-DEVLET İLİŞKİLERİ ÇERÇEVESİNDE HALK DİNDARLIĞI
Authors: ASAN Sümeyye
Published: February 2024

Din siyaset ilişkilerini sosyolojik açıdan incelemek amacıyla yazılan bu makale, Osmanlı Devleti’nde halk dindarlığını konu edinmektedir. Çalışmamızda cevap aradığımız temel sorular; ‘‘Osmanlı’da halk dindarlığı neyi ifade etmektedir?’’, ‘‘Siyasallaşmış Devlet İslam’ı ve halk dindarlığı arasındaki farklılıklar nasıl oluşmuştur?’’, ‘‘Osmanlı heretik oluşumlarla neden mücadele etmiştir?’’, ‘‘Halk İslam’ı ve Devlet İslam’ı arasındaki ara formlar nelerdir?’’, ‘‘İslam kültüründe ortodoks ve heterodoks kavramlarını nasıl anlamalıyız?’’ şeklinde sıralanabilir. Buna göre dokümantasyon yöntemi kullanılarak hazırlanan makalemiz, akademiye konuyla ilgili bir katkıda bulunmayı amaçlamaktadır. Bu doğrultuda öncelikle, Osmanlı’da İslam’ın görünüş biçimleriyle ortodoks ve heterodoks kavramlarına değinilmiş, devamında ise halk dindarlığı ve ortaya çıkış nedenlerinin üzerinde durulmuştur. Son olarak Osmanlı resmi ideolojisi ve halk dindarlığı ile ilişkisine ışık tutulmuştur.
T-Type Ca2+Channels Mediate a Critical Period of Plasticity in Adult-Born Granule Cells
Authors: Kennedy William M. , Gonzalez Jose Carlos , Lee Haeun , Wadiche Jacques I. , Overstreet-Wadiche Linda
Published: February 2024

Adult-born granule cells (abGCs) exhibit a transient period of elevated synaptic plasticity that plays an important role in hippocampal function. Various mechanisms have been implicated in this critical period for enhanced plasticity, including minimal GABAergic inhibition and high intrinsic excitability conferred by T-type Ca2+channels. Here we assess the contribution of synaptic inhibition and intrinsic excitability to long-term potentiation (LTP) in abGCs of adult male and female mice using perforated patch recordings. We show that the timing of critical period plasticity is unaffected by intact GABAergic inhibition such that 4–6-week-old abGCs exhibit LTP that is absent by 8 weeks. Blocking GABAAreceptors, or partial blockade of GABA release from PV and nNos-expressing interneurons by a µ-opioid receptor agonist, strongly enhances LTP in 4-week-old GCs, suggesting that minimal inhibition does not underlie critical period plasticity. Instead, the closure of the critical period coincides with a reduction in the contribution of T-type Ca2+channels to intrinsic excitability, and a selective T-type Ca2+channel antagonist prevents LTP in 4-week-old but not mature GCs. Interestingly, whole-cell recordings that facilitate T-type Ca2+channel activity in mature GCs unmasks LTP (with inhibition intact) that is also sensitive to a T-type Ca2+channel antagonist, suggesting T-type channel activity in mature GCs is suppressed by native intracellular signaling. Together these results show that abGCs use T-type Ca2+channels to overcome inhibition, providing new insight into how high intrinsic excitability provides young abGCs a competitive advantage for experience-dependent synaptic plasticity.
Insights on the role of thyroid hormone transport in neurosensory organs and implication for the Allan–Herndon–Dudley syndrome
Authors: García-Aldea Ángel , Guillén-Yunta Marina , Valcárcel-Hernández Víctor , Montero-Pedrazuela Ana , Guadaño-Ferraz Ana , Bárez-López Soledad
Published: February 2024

Thyroid hormones play an important role during the development and functioning of the different sensory systems. In order to exert their actions, thyroid hormones need to access their target cells through transmembrane transporter proteins, among which the monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8) stands out for its pathophysiological relevance. Mutations in the gene encoding for MCT8 lead to the Allan–Herndon–Dudley syndrome (AHDS), a rare disease characterised by severe neuromotor and cognitive impairments. The impact of MCT8 deficiency in the neurosensory capacity of AHDS patients is less clear, with only a few patients displaying visual and auditory impairments. In this review we aim to gather data from different animal models regarding thyroid hormone transport and action in the different neurosensory systems that could aid to identify potential neurosensorial alterations in MCT8-deficient patients.
Head-to-head comparison of American, European, and Asian TIRADSs in thyroid nodule assessment: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Piticchio Tommaso , Russ Gilles , Radzina Maija , Frasca Francesco , Durante Cosimo , Trimboli Pierpaolo
Published: February 2024

Context

Ultrasound-based risk stratification systems (Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data Systems (TIRADSs)) of thyroid nodules (TNs) have been implemented in clinical practice worldwide based on their high performance. However, it remains unexplored whether different TIRADSs perform uniformly across a range of TNs in routine practice. This issue is highly relevant today, given the ongoing international effort to establish a unified TIRADS (i.e. I-TIRADS), supported by the leading societies specializing in TNs. The study aimed to conduct a direct comparison among ACR-, EU-, and K-TIRADS in the distribution of TNs: (1) across the TIRADS categories, and (2) based on their estimated cancer risk.

Methods

A search was conducted on PubMed and Embase until June 2023. Original studies that sequentially assessed TNs using TIRADSs, regardless of FNAC indication, were selected. General study characteristics and data on the distribution of TNs across TIRADSs were extracted.

Results

Seven studies, reporting a total of 41,332 TNs, were included in the analysis. The prevalence of ACR-TIRADS 1–2 was significantly higher than that of EU-TIRADS 2 and K-TIRADS 2, with no significant difference observed among intermediate- and high-risk categories of TIRADSs. According to malignancy risk estimation, K-TIRADS often classified TNs as having more severe risk, ACR-TIRADS as having moderate risk, and EU-TIRADS classified TNs as having lower risk.

Conclusion

ACR-, EU-, and K-TIRADS assess TNs similarly across their categories, with slight differences in low-risk classifications. Despite this, focusing on cancer risk estimation, the three TIRADSs assess TNs differently. These findings should be considered as a prerequisite for developing the I-TIRADS.
Optimization of deep eutectic-like solvent-based ultrasound-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from Leonurus residues
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Wei Liurun , Sun Xiang , Sun Gongbing , Ma Yuzhao , Xu Shengyan , He Jianyu , Li Sidan
Published: February 2024

Effects of the different types of deep eutectic-like solvents (DESs), molar ratio, water content, extraction temperature, extraction time, and ratio of liquid to solid were studied relative to the yield of Leonurus residue crude polysaccharide (LRCP). Extraction amounts of LRCP were determined. The extraction process parameters were optimized by response surface methodology, and an optimal extraction process was achieved. The results showed that DESs comprising choline chloride and ethylene glycol (CCEG) were suitable for the extraction. The optimum extraction process was as follows: water content, 27%; extraction temperature, 62 °C; and extraction time, 48 min. With the abovementioned parameters, the predicted extraction yield of LRCP was 14.1%. It was found that with these optimal extraction conditions, a 52.9% higher extraction yield could be achieved compared with hot water extraction. Therefore, a type of DES was found to be an excellent extraction solvent alternative for the extraction of polysaccharides and has a practical value.
Texas dairy industry assessment of research, education, and service importance of the Southwest regional dairy center
Authors: Jones Barbara
Published: February 2024

The objective of this research was to determine future directions the Southwest Regional Dairy Center (SWRDC) should take and improvements the SWRDC could make. In October 2019, a Qualtrics survey (Qualtrics LLC., Provo, Utah) was distributed to the Texas Association of Dairymen to further distribute to dairy producers and industry representatives. The survey asked respondents to rank satisfaction with tours of the SWRDC from 1 to 7 (1=extremely satisfied, 7=extremely dissatisfied) and to rank community outreach events, research activities, extension events, and types of research from least important to most important. Twenty-eight producers and dairy industry representatives responded. Of the respondents, nine ranked the SWRDC tours as extremely satisfied, two ranked as moderately satisfied, two ranked as neutral and the remaining respondents did not answer the question. The respondents’ highest ranked community outreach events, research activities and extension events were breakfast on the farm, research showcase, and demonstration days with continuing education credits offered, respectively. The respondents’ highest ranked type of research was precision dairy monitoring technology. Survey results better inform the SWRDC administration of future directions the center should take in research, education, and service activities.
Comparative evaluation of growth performance, gut morphology, micro-flora, haematology and immune response of broilers fed with Sodium butyrate and Saccharomycescerevisiae supplemented diets
Authors: FO Abonyi , EC Attama , ON Okoroafor , CJ Aronu , IC Ugwu , DC Eze , NS Machebe , AF Udoumoh
Published: February 2024

The effects of dietary sodium butyrate (SB) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC) on some bodily parameters of chickens were evaluated. One hundred and twentyday-old broilers (CHI, Ajanla Farms,Ibadan, Nigeria) were randomly divided into four treatments A, B, C and D, consisting three replicate pens of 10 chickens. They were fed as follows: A-diet withoutsupplement (control); B-(200mg/kg SB); C-(200mg/kg SB+1.0g/kg SC), and D-(1.0g/kg SC). Growth performance, organ weights, carcass quality, and lipid profile were determined. Intestinal villus height(VH), villus width (VW), villus surface area (VSA), crypt depth (CD), villus height to crypts depth ratio (VH: CD) were assessed. Some selected bacteria population, haematology, serum biochemistry and humoral immune responses against NDV and SRBCs antigens were evaluated. Supplementation increased growth performance, bursa and thymus weights. There was significantly (p<0.05) higher dressing percentage and lower cholesterol in groups B and C. High density lipoprotein and triglyceride were reduced significantly in B. Triglyceride and abdominal fat were significantly higher inD. The CD was higher (p<0.05) in duodenum of the control. In supplemented groups, VSA and VH: CD in the threeintestinal segments, VH in duodenum and jejunum were enhanced. Supplementation lowered gut microflora, increased WBC, lymphocyte counts and immune performance. DietC stimulated more positive influence on productive parameters and could be an alternative growth promoter in broilers.
Colostrum as the speed up key for ruminant newborn: what do we know and should further characterize
Authors: Martins Luis , da Costa Correa Oliveira Luiza
Published: February 2024

Feeding and management programs are essential to determine neonatal health and survival. Therefore, an adequate and early intake of high quality colostrum, rich in antibodies and nutrients, is crucial. Some factors such as i) season; ii) length of the dry period and nutrition; iii) number of births; iv) litter size; v) body condition; vi) milk production; vii) fat and protein content; viii) somatic cell count and ix) breed/genetics have been associated with the quality of colostrum. Colostral nutritional and protective characteristics may be assessed through the protein concentration, which reflects the amount of albumin and globulins, indicating the success or failure in passive transference of immunity. Failure to passive immunoglobulin transfer results in an increased risk of morbidity and mortality of the newborn. This review addresses factors with potential to interfere with the quality of colostrum, prospecting future research in sheep.
HISTÓRIA DAS INSTITUIÇÕES ESCOLARES E CULTURA ESCOLAR: MUDANÇAS E PERMANÊNCIAS NAS PRÁTICAS PEDAGÓGICAS NA ESCOLA ESTADUAL PROFESSOR ANÍSIO TEIXEIRA (1974-2002)
Authors: Costa Antonio Max Ferreira , Nascimento José Mateus do
Published: February 2024

A pesquisa apresentada constitui um recorte da tese de doutoramento que vem sendo desenvolvida desde 2019 no Programa de Pós-Graduação em Educação Profissional (PPGEP-IFRN) na Linha de Pesquisa História, Historiografia e Memória da Educação Profissional. O objetivo desse trabalho é tecer reflexões sobre as categorias epistemológicas “História das Instituições Escolares” e “Cultura Escolar” assentadas na base bibliográfica dos estudos da Nova História Cultural, tecidas por Justino Magalhães (2004, 2001, 1998, 1996), Dominique Julia (2001), Viñao Frago (2006,1995) e Michel de Certeau (1995). Metodologicamente realizou-se pesquisa bibliográfica, com o propósito de compreender as categorias citadas. Também efetivou-se Análise Temática com as etapas de distinção das ideias centrais das secundárias; realização de problematizações e proposições, conforme orienta Severino (2007). A investigação traz a reflexão de que as categorias “História das Instituições Escolares” e “Cultura Escolar” são essenciais na análise histórica das mudanças e permanências ocorridas nas práticas pedagógicas estabelecidas no cotidiano de uma determinada instituição de ensino, em especial a Escola Estadual Professor Anísio Teixeira em Natal/RN, responsável por formar alunos trabalhadores nos cursos técnico profissionalizante de 2º grau, com habilitação em Administração e Contabilidade no recorte temporal (1974-2002) referendada nos estudos de Costa (2017).
كتاب المحاورة الحديثة الجزء الأول: تحليل المحتوى عند نظرية ناصر عبد الغالي
Authors: Safitri Intan , Thohir Muhammad , Hanifah Umi
Published: February 2024

Objective- This study aims to find out whether the book Muhawaratul Haditsah first chapter complies with the four criteria for teaching materials put forward by Abdul Ghali and whether this book is suitable for learning Arabic.
 Design / Methodology / Qualitative- This research uses the documentation method or what is often referred to as library research or library research with a content analysis approach. What was used to collect data and information in this study were documents related to research and analysis of the textbooks examined by researchers.
 Findings- This research shows that the book "Muhawarotil Haditsah" first chapter as a whole focuses on the contents of the book learning about Islamic culture and learning adab or noble character, this aims so that students can learn how to be a Muslim and socialize well in their environment both at school and at home. And although the four criteria for teaching materials put forward by Abdul Ghali are not one hundred percent fulfilled by this book, this book is very feasible to use, especially for students who are in Islamic boarding schools.
 Research Limitations/Implications- In this study, the researcher focused on researching or analyzing the contents of the book "Muhawarotul Haditsah" first chapter using the basis of the subject matter proposed by Nasir Abdul Ghali. Namely, the basis of culture, psychology, language and education.
Peran Teknologi dalam Mengurangi Konflik Bahasa: Tinjauan Solusi Digital
Authors: Khoiroh Himmatul
Published: February 2024

Purpose- This research aims to explore the impact of highly advanced technology in reducing cross-cultural language conflicts, especially in Indonesia, which boasts rich linguistic and cultural diversity. Information technology has significant potential to serve as a catalyst in mitigating language conflicts amid the cultural and linguistic diversity in Indonesia.
Design/Methodology/Approach- The research employs a descriptive-analytical literature review method, which highlights various relevant theories supporting an understanding of how technology can play a crucial role in dampening language conflicts. Data collection from literature reviewed by several researchers is conducted to gain a profound understanding of the impact of information technology in mitigating language conflicts among different language and cultural groups.
Findings- The findings indicate that information technology serves not only as a tool to reduce conflicts among groups with different linguistic and cultural backgrounds but also as a facilitator in building intercultural and interreligious communication. By exploring digital solutions, it is evident that technology plays a significant role in deepening cross-cultural understanding and strengthening inter-country relationships. With technological advancements, it is expected that these solutions will continue to innovate and contribute to creating a more inclusive and mutually understanding society amidst the linguistic and cultural diversity in Indonesia.
Research Limitation/Implications- This research is still in the theoretical realm and does not involve field testing as a comparative method. Nevertheless, this study can be considered as a preliminary step in exploring the role of rapidly developing technology in addressing language conflict issues.
LA PROTECCION AL CONSUMIDOR FINANCIERO EN COLOMBIA, ESTADO DE COSAS
Authors: Alba-Urrego Nicolás , Quintero-Valderrama Jeisson Andrés , Díaz-Arenas María Paula
Published: February 2024

El Estatuto del Consumidor (Ley 1480 de 2011), y lo regulado en materia de consumidor financiero mediante la Ley 1328 de 2009, marcaron un enfoque hacia la protección de los consumidores: por un lado, mediante la acción de protección al consumidor del artículo 56 del Estatuto del consumidor, y, por otro, al facultar de funciones jurisdiccionales a la Superintendencia Financiera de Colombia, en el artículo 57 de la misma norma. El presente artículo se enfocará en el estudio de la relación de consumo existente entre la entidad financiera vigilada por la Superintendencia Financiera y el consumidor financiero, y en brindar una visión acerca de la protección estatal existente actualmente para el consumidor financiero, en relación con los posibles abusos o limitación en sus derechos. Para ello, se analizarán aspectos relacionados con el deber legal de información -el cual recae sobre las entidades vigiladas por la Superintendencia Financiera- y cuál es su eficacia y efectividad en la práctica para los consumidores del sector. Igualmente, se hará un análisis con respecto a la estipulación de cláusulas abusivas por parte de las entidades vigiladas y sobre cuáles son los posibles mecanismos de protección a los que puede recurrir el consumidor financiero, en caso de ver transgredidos sus derechos.
LOS ABOGADOS VS LA INTELIGENCIA ARTIFICIAL
Authors: RUIZ-DIAZ LAURA VALENTINA
Published: February 2024

Tras la evolución que han tenido las ciencias de computación, y en específico la rama de la Inteligencia Artificial, se ha venido hablando de los desafíos que deberán afrontar los profesionales en el derecho tras la injerencia de esta en la práctica legal y, en lo que compete a este trabajo, evaluar la posibilidad de reemplazar al abogado en el ejercicio de sus funciones respecto del derecho privado.El presente manuscrito busca contextualizar , identificar, comparar y determinar tanto el alcance normativo, como los desafíos éticos y legales que se tendrán en los posibles escenarios futuros en los que la Inteligencia Artificial desarrolle un papel más significativo en la práctica del derecho privado. Por ello, se realizó la comparación de distintos ordenamientos jurídicos con el colombiano y aquella normativa creada con respecto al tema, a fin de que se genere mayor comprensión de los retos que tendrá el Estado para tratar de no quedarse atrás en lo que avanza esta ciencia.Para el efecto, se considera que si es posible el reemplazo del ejercicio de sus funciones mas no en su esencia, pues la naturaleza del ser humano es única e indescriptible; el abogado dentro de todo el marco de sus deberes y funciones, es persona y por ello goza de principios y lenguaje siendo estas características propias del ser humano, mientras que la inteligencia artificial y la tecnología surgen como una herramienta para aliviar labores y que hasta el día de hoy son parte fundamental en la sociedad contemporánea.
Environmental Imaginaries of the Arctic in the 21st Century Travel Writing
Authors: Purgina Ekaterina S. , Menshikov Andrey S.
Published: February 2024

Contemporary travel accounts engage with the ecocritical agenda, examining the global environmental crisis caused by human actions. In contrast to earlier narratives that presented the Arctic as a territory to be “claimed,” today’s travelers predominantly view it as a territory to be preserved. Amid the dialectic of destruction and preservation, new environmental imaginaries emphasize the interconnectedness of nature and human history, employing literary techniques to convey this interdependence. William E. Glassley in his book A Wilder Time: Notes From a Geologist at the Edge of the Greenland Ice (2018) adopts a “trans-scalar” perspective for narrating his Arctic journeys, seamlessly shifting between microscopic and macroscopic views of the planet, its elements and inhabitants. Glassley’s imaginary of the Arctic as an “indivisible whole” draws from geological and biological sciences. As a geologist, he underscores the unity of Earth’s substances, highlighting the entanglement of geo- and lifecycles. The Arctic, devoid of history during travelers’ presence, reveals its story through geological analysis of collected specimens. Ice, as an archive of planetary history, surpasses human records. Travel literature thus contributes to crafting an environmental imaginary rooted in substantial temporal interconnectedness, addressing the Anthropocene’s challenges.
Exploring the Factors Influencing Tourist Destination Loyalty: A Case Study of Homestay Entrepreneurs in Thailand
Authors: Muangmee Chaiyawit , Sawangcharoen Kanakorn , Pongvatnanusorn Veerapan , Chaitorn Thun , Kassakorn Nuttapon , Saqib Shahab E.
Published: February 2024

This research aims to explore the image of the homestay entrepreneurs through service marketing mix, tourist satisfaction, and tourist loyalty toward homestay entrepreneurs and find their tourist destination loyalty model. The data were collected from 440 tourists and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics consisting of confirmatory factor, path, and structural equation modeling. The results showed that the image of the homestays in Samut Sakhon province, service marketing mix, tourist satisfaction, and tourist loyalty toward homestay entrepreneurs in Samut Sakhon province were mostly at high levels. Moreover, confirmatory factors analysis showed that the image of the homestays in Samut Sakhon province has the highest in the “Impression,” the service marketing mix has the highest in “People,” tourist satisfaction has the highest value in “Service quality,” and tourist loyalty toward homestays entrepreneurs has the highest value in the “Repeated use of the service.” Furthermore, it is revealed that the image of the homestays and the service marketing mix have direct and indirect influences on tourist loyalty toward homestay entrepreneurs. With continuous improvement in service quality, affordability, and customer relationship management, homestay entrepreneurs can create positive experiences, enhance value for money, cultivate customer loyalty, and benefit from positive word-of-mouth recommendations, ultimately driving the growth and success of their businesses.
Modelo para o desenvolvimento de estratégia de busca para a recuperação da informação científica e tecnológica: o caso da impressão 3D
Authors: Galina Andréia Cristina , Leta Jacqueline
Published: February 2024

INTRODUÇÃO Após a segunda guerra mundial, a ciência passa a ser compreendida como um setor vital para o desenvolvimento e progresso de um país, e, consequentemente, as nações passaram a investir mais recursos para as atividades de pesquisa. A necessidade de gerenciar esses recursos e também de compreender a dinâmica científica e tecnológica estimulou o desenvolvimento de áreas relacionadas a métricas de desempenho e de impacto da ciência, como bibliometria, cientometria e patentometria. Estudos dessas áreas sobre um determinado tema têm como etapa inicial a recuperação da informação, a qual requer o uso de uma estratégia de busca eficiente para recuperar o máximo de documentos de interesse com o mínimo de falsos positivos. OBJETIVO O presente estudo propõe um modelo para o desenvolvimento de estratégia de busca para a recuperação da informação científica e tecnológica em um tema emergente: a impressão 3D em estudos métricos quantitativos. RESULTADOS Para o caso da impressão 3D, o modelo proposto recuperou um quantitativo 70% superior ao identificado na literatura para documentos científicos e 44% superior para patentes. CONCLUSÃO A utilização do modelo pode ampliar consideravelmente a quantidade de informação científica e tecnológica recuperada, possibilita a identificação de termos para tecnologias emergentes antes que esses se estabeleçam e também proporciona melhoria na qualidade dos dados, evitando conclusões equivocadas.