bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medicaid Expansion and Overall Survival of Lower Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients After Cytoreductive Surgery and Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy
Authors: Ramalingam Kirithiga , Ji Liang , O’Leary Michael P. , Lum Sharon S. , Caba Molina David
Published: November 2024

Background

In the United States, often only tertiary centers offer cytoreductive surgery and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS+HIPEC) for peritoneal metastases in advanced lower gastrointestinal malignancies. Growing evidence shows that Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010 enhanced healthcare access and outcomes.

Objective

We sought to determine whether Medicaid expansion was associated with decreased all-cause mortality of lower gastrointestinal cancer patients following CRS+HIPEC.

Methods

We analyzed data from the National Cancer Database (2010–2019) on lower gastrointestinal cancer patients who underwent CRS+HIPEC. Medicaid expansion, introduced under the ACA in 2010, extends health insurance to low-income adults. We categorized states by expansion timing: early (2010–2013), immediate (January 2014), late (after January 2014), or no expansion to assess the impact of Medicaid expansion on mortality using a multivariable Cox regression model.

Results

Of the 1001 study patients, 671 (67%) were diagnosed in Medicaid expansion states. Grade and Medicaid expansion status were the only factors independently associated with overall survival on multivariable analysis. On average, patients in Medicaid expansion states experienced a 4% increase in annual survival compared with those in non-expansion states who had a 1% decrease in annual survival over the study period.

Conclusions

Patients from states that had an early expansion of Medicaid and patients with lower-grade tumors had significantly better overall survival. Our study findings suggest that improved access to healthcare through Medicaid expansion was associated with increased survival rates of lower gastrointestinal cancer patients who undergo CRS+HIPEC for the treatment of peritoneal metastases.
THE PROBLEM OF FORMULATING THE PRINCIPLES OF TEACHING AND WAYS TO SOLVE IT
Authors: Gaifutdinov Azat М. , Medvedeva Regina А. , Gayfutdinova Tatyana V.
Published: November 2024

Background. A large number of formulations of requirements, presented by authors as principles of teaching, devalue the significance and achievements of theoretical didactics. Their transformation in accordance with the requirements of logic and the criteria of the concept of "principle of teaching" is a promising direction in solving the issue of the number of principles.
Purpose. To identify trends in the formulation of teaching principles in domestic pedagogy (didactics) in the second half of the 20th – early 21st centuries and to determine ways to solve the problem of the number of didactic principles.
Materials and methods. The study uses formulations of requirements for the learning process, called by the authors the principles of learning and presented in textbooks and teaching aids on pedagogy and didactics, published in our country in the second half of the 20th – early 21st centuries. The main errors in the formulation of principles of learning and ways to overcome them are identified based on content-terminological and structural analysis.
Results. The reasons for the uncontrolled growth in the number of formulations of teaching principles in pedagogy have been determined. They are: 1) violation of the hierarchy of the main parts of pedagogy, as a result of which the rules of teaching and recommendations developed in the course of methodological research in the field of teaching individual subjects, as well as the development of technologies, are elevated to the rank of general didactic requirements, passing them off as teaching principles; 2) lack of rigor in presenting the results of pedagogical (didactic) research, violation of the requirements of logic for the formulation of laws, principles and rules leads confusion of concepts. One of the ways to solve the problem of formulating principles is to conduct a structural and content-terminological analysis based on the requirements of logic. The principles of teaching are formulated in the form of a narrative sentence, the content of which presents a dialectical relationship between the system-forming elements of the learning process: the teacher's activities and the students' activities to transform the content of learning. The dialectical nature of the connection between the system-forming elements of the learning process determines the existence of principles that reveal the source, mechanism and direction of learning development.
‘SCHOOLCHILD'S CALENDAR’: HISTORY AND PERSPECTIVES OF THE CALENDAR PROJECT IN PEDAGOGICAL PRACTICES
Authors: Kostyukhina Marina S.
Published: November 2024

Background. Calendars for schoolchildren are a type of extracurricular literature intended to form in students a complete picture of the world in accordance with ideological, scientific, moral and ethical concepts accepted in society. Pedagogical and educational material in calendar publications is placed in chronological order to serve as a source of information about the alternation of months and days of the week, significant dates and public holidays, as well as astronomical phenomena. In addition to the dates of the general calendar, school calendars include dates and events that are significant for children. These include children's holidays, anniversaries of children's writers, dates of the creation of children's and youth organizations, dates of life of young heroes, etc. Analysis of historical material allows to see the specifics of a successfully implemented calendar project and outline the prospects for its use in modern educational and pedagogical practices.
Purpose – analysis of the history of the calendar project for schoolchildren of the XIX-XX centuries and prospects for its use in modern conditions.
Materials and methods. Historical and genetic method based on the use of historical artifacts and their analytical study.
Results. Studying the history of calendars for schoolchildren and high school students shows the role and significance of the calendar format in the system of domestic education and upbringing. The significance of the calendar for schoolchildren, presented today on various media (paper or electronic), is not limited to its history. The calendar remains an important form of systematization of knowledge about the world, based on the chronological principle. The continuation of the calendar project is moving in the direction of spiritual and historical education of schoolchildren and has good prospects for implementation.
Partial response to treatment with ALK inhibitor in a patient with SQSTM1-ALK fusion positive lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Rodriguez Arroyo Brenda Paola , Mondragón-Cardona Alvaro , Pacheco-Orozco Rafael Adrián , Tamayo Andrea , Moreno Juan Camilo , Baena-Valencia Juan Camilo
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Lung cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide and the leading cause of cancer deaths; non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) constitutes about 85% of lung cancer cases, with ALK fusions representing 3–6% of them. The SQSTM1-ALK fusion is a rare finding in NSCLC, accounting for only 1.1% of ALK rearrangements. We present a case of lung adenocarcinoma with documentation of SQSTM1-ALK fusion that showed a partial response to alectinib. Case description: This case details the clinical course of a 71-year-old, non-smoking woman with no significant medical history who presented with confusion, aphasia and multiple cerebral lesions detected on imaging. Further investigations revealed a stage IV lung adenocarcinoma with metastases to the brain and adrenal gland. Molecular profiling identified a rare SQSTM1-ALK fusion mutation alongside other genetic abnormalities, including low programmed death-ligand 1 expression and ROS1 kinase protein presence. Treatment with alectinib, initiated based on the identified ALK fusion, resulted in significant tumour regression in the lungs and complete resolution of the adrenal mass, as evidenced by follow-up imaging and clinical assessments. Conclusion: This case highlights the efficacy of alectinib in treating rare ALK fusion variants in and underscores the importance of comprehensive molecular profiling in guiding targeted therapy decisions.
Tracing Steiner
Authors: Nicol Janni
Published: November 2024

In the first article in a new series about Rudolf Steiner, philosopher and thinker, Janni Nicol, Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood consultant, shares more about Steiner‘s background, the origin of his ideas and the story of Steiner Waldorf education.
Abolitionist Laughter: The Joint Movement to #StopCopCity
Authors: Fesette Nicholas
Published: November 2024

Abstract: In Atlanta, South River (Weelaunee) Forest is the proposed home of the $90 million Public Safety Training Center, also known as "Cop City." On June 5, 2023, when the Atlanta City Council opened the floor for public comment on Cop City, hundreds of people voiced their opposition for nearly fifteen hours, frequently using humor as a tactic of resistance. What are the radical political potentials of laughter? Which forms of laughter support the power of police, and which disrupt it? This article addresses these questions by closely attending to the comedic performances of #StopCopCity activists.
Multiple color information cryptosystem using Hessenberg-decomposition-modulated chaotic and face biometric phase encoding
Authors: Abuturab Muhammad Rafiq
Published: November 2024

A novel, to the author’s knowledge, multiple color information
cryptosystem based on Hessenberg decomposition (HD)-modulated chaotic
and face biometric phase encoding is introduced. The face biometric
phase mask (FPM) and chaotic phase mask (CPM) are modulated by HD to
obtain an upper Hessenberg matrix, an upper triangular matrix, and two
unitary matrices for the first time. Each original color image is
decomposed into R, G, and B channels. Each channel is
individually modulated by an upper triangular matrix and two unitary
matrices. The upper Hessenberg matrix and modulated R, G, and B channels are inverse discrete wavelet
transformed to produce a fused image. In the same way, fused images
for multiple color images are generated and combined into a single
complex image, which is bonded with a first chaotic face biometric
phase mask (CFPM) and fractional Fourier transformed. The resultant
image is amplitude- and phase-truncated to generate the first common
decryption key and preliminary encrypted image. The encrypted image is
bonded with a second CFPM and fractional Fourier transformed. The
obtained image is amplitude- and phase-truncated to generate the
second common decryption key and final encrypted image. The proposed
method utilizes the fused image as a covered image to conceal the
modulated R, G, and B channels of each original color
image. Furthermore, six decryption keys (three matrix decryption keys,
one individual decryption key, two common decryption keys), and six
encryption keys (two CFPMs and four orders of fractional Fourier
transform) provide resistance against various types of potential
attacks. A hybrid optoelectronic system can be utilized to implement
the proposed cryptosystem. Numerical simulation results validate the
feasibility and efficiency of the proposed scheme.
Unidirectional emission with ultra-small divergence angle in deformed pentagonal microcavities
Authors: Wang Wei , Chen You-Ling , Shen Zheng-Zheng , Yang Yue-De , Xiao Jin-Long , Huang Yong-Zhen
Published: November 2024

Unidirectional emission, one of the key technologies to achieve large-scale photonic integration, plays an important role in optical antennas, high-performance grating couplers, and energy-efficient lasers. At the same time, high chirality has demonstrated its potential application in highly sensitive optical sensors and coherent light sources with miniaturized sizes. Here, we designed a deformed circular-sided pentagonal microresonator (CPM) with low refractive index material for the combination of unidirectional light emission and high chirality. Two typical materials of polymer and silica are studied. For the polymer CPM, unidirectional emission with a divergence angle as small as 3° is predicted by constructing a notch at the vertex, and the chirality is 0.831. For the silica CPM, a divergence angle for unidirectional emission down to 10° and chirality as high as 0.9623 is predicted by introducing a channeling waveguide. The far-field emission pattern and chirality change drastically upon the attachment of a nanoparticle, predicting an ideal platform for a low-cost, portable, and highly sensitive nanoparticle detector.
Autofocusing capabilities of double-ring circular Airy Gaussian beams and their application in particle manipulation
Authors: Ni Jipeng , Kong Linghao , Yan Yalin , Qiu Jian , Peng Li , Luo Kaiqing , Chen Miao , Han Peng , Gu Min , Liu Dongmei
Published: November 2024

Focusing is extensively researched in bioimaging, medicine, and quantum computation. However, single focal point and short focal length restrict imaging and optical manipulation at long distances. In this study, we propose what we believe to be a novel method, namely the coherent superposition of double-ring circular Airy Gaussian beams (DR-CAiGBs) to achieve multiple autofocusing over long distances. Without complex structures, theoretical simulations and experimental verifications demonstrate that the DR-CAiGBs can generate multiple autofocusing points along the optical axis, whose positions and quantities can be flexibly adjusted. Furthermore, we demonstrated the two-dimensional (2D) particle manipulation of the DR-CAiGBs by trapping multiple particles at different autofocusing points over 100 µm. Our research and findings establish new avenues for practical applications in biological cell analysis, particle transportation, and lithography.
Kerr nonlinearities of amorphous composite diffraction gratings
Authors: Daryakar Navid , David Christin
Published: November 2024

Light diffraction plays a crucial role in the linear and nonlinear optical response of one-dimensional metal gratings. We study Kerr nonlinearities from amorphous Au/Al2O3 composite fillings using nonlinear effective media described by Maxwell-Garnett and Bruggeman theories together with the Fourier modal method and scattering matrix theory. The investigation of the electromagnetic fields enables us to analyze optical properties in the nonlinear regime and optimize light absorption and higher harmonic generation in the gap filled with the composite. The local electric field and third order susceptibility are contributing to the local modification of the permittivity at the fundamental wavelength and are effective parameters of both the structured geometry and the composition of the amorphous medium. The nonlinear susceptibility of metal nanoparticle inclusions becomes uniform off-resonance, indicating weak nonlinear interaction over a wide spectral range. However, we observe an increase of the absorption in the nonlinear regime at wavelengths corresponding to Rayleigh anomalies where light is trapped inside the structure at much longer wavelengths. The nonlinear local field enhancement shows a unique behavior at Rayleigh anomalies increasing for diffraction gratings with a thickness beyond 60 nm instead of decaying. In regions with a stationary electric field, the permittivity aligns with the linear regime.
Mitigating unbalanced loss in entanglement assisted absorptive measurements with a phase-sensitive amplifier
Authors: Du Wei , Bao Shidong , Yang Peiyu , Yang Yiquan , Wu Shuhe , Guo Jinxian , Bao Guzhi , Zhang Weiping
Published: November 2024

Correlated interferometry offers various advantages in precision measurements, such as sub-shot noise sensitivity, high resolution, and prevention of detector saturation benefiting from dark output. In certain practical scenarios, e.g. absorptive measurement, there is usually unbalanced loss between the probe and reference beams, which destroys the correlation and remains a significant obstacle in the efficient application of entanglements. Here, we study the performance of a nonlinear interferometer whose arms experience unbalanced loss and demonstrate the use of a phase-sensitive amplifier in the sensing or reference arms to amplify or squeeze the light field, which can both reduce the degradation of quantum enhancement from unbalanced absorption in a lossy environment. We find that the loss after amplification, i.e. from imperfect interferometry and detection, can be mitigated when the phase-sensitive amplifier is placed at the sensing arm and functions as a noiseless amplifier. Our approach may be helpful to the practical application of quantum-enhanced absorptive measurement.
Bio-inspired snapshot polarization-hyperspectral camera
Authors: Sun Yuanyuan , Liang Rongguang
Published: November 2024

The mantis shrimp is recognized to have one of the most powerful vision systems in nature, with up to 16 color-perceiving channels and the perception of linear and circular polarization detection. Inspired by its biostructure, we developed a snapshot polarization-hyperspectral camera (pHScam) to detect linear polarization in four directions and spectral signature in 21 bands of incident light, resulting in a 4D polar-spectral hypercube, represented as H(x,y,l,S→). We introduced two bio-mimetic encoding mechanisms, viz., two-tier color encoding and pixelwise mosaic polarization encoding, to efficiently compress the original 4D datacube into a 2D mosaic raw pattern. The full-resolution recovery is solved by convex optimization algorithm, utilizing known prior sparsity and experimental system calibrations.
Polarization-insensitive thermo-optic Mach–Zehnder switches on silicon
Authors: Jiao Xiaomin , Song Lijia , Wen Chengfeng , Liu Weixi , Chen Ting , Li Huan , Shi Yaocheng , Dai Daoxin
Published: November 2024

Polarization-insensitive photonic switches are crucial for the case with random polarization states encountered in optical systems. In this paper, we propose and demonstrate a polarization-insensitive 2 × 2 thermo-optic Mach–Zehnder switch (PIMZS) on a 340-nm silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform by incorporating low-loss polarization-insensitive multimode interference (PIMMI) couplers whose core width is varied optimally. The fabricated 2 × 2 PIMZS exhibits a low excess loss of 0.15–0.79 dB and a high extinction ratio of >24 dB for both polarizations, and low polarization-dependent loss (PDL) of <0.47 dB is achieved across the C-band.
Thermal tuning behavior and robust control of a single-soliton microcomb with a modulated sideband
Authors: Zhang Hongyi , Li Xiaojing , Lu Liangjun , Chen Jianping , Zhou Linjie
Published: November 2024

A chip-scaled single-soliton microcomb source promises wide applications in various fields. We demonstrate the deterministic single-soliton generation from both pump forward and backward tunings via sideband thermal compensation. The total soliton existing range (SER) is effectively expanded due to the thermal-lock effect and remains nearly the same regardless of the soliton states. Besides, we prove the degeneration of the forward-tuning SER, accompanied by the decrease in the soliton number. This scheme remains robust against a significant pump wavelength chirp, sustaining a free-running single soliton for over 9 h with line power fluctuations below 0.6 dB.
Isolation and characterization of phosphate solubilizing bacteria from the rhizosphere of lentil (Lens culinaris M.) collected from Hagere Mariam district, Central Ethiopia
Authors: Mengesha Assefa Shegaw , Legesse Negash Hailu
Published: November 2024

Phosphorus plays a crucial role in regulating many of the plant’s metabolic activities by enhancing physiological functions and stimulating biological activities such as nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and nutrient uptake in the soil rhizosphere environment. Inoculants of phosphorus solubilizing bacteria serve as an eco-friendly alternative technology that positively influences both soil sustainability and plant growth. The majority of North Shewa highland areas are characterized by low available phosphorus, primarily acidic, and exhibit strong phosphorus absorption. The objective of this study was to isolate and identify phosphorus solubilizing bacteria from the rhizosphere of lentils and characterize their phosphate solubilizing activity. The cultural, biochemical, physiological microbial analysis was conducted in the microbiology laboratory, department of biology. Pikovskaya’s medium was utilized for the isolation, screening, and maintenance of phosphate solubilizing bacteria. Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria were isolated using tri-calcium phosphate as the sole source of phosphorus in indicator plates. Fifteen phosphate solubilizing bacteria were isolated from lentil rhizosphere soil samples, among which six were the most efficient phosphate solubilizers designated as PSBYE, PSBYR, PSBYM, PSBYL, PSBW, and PSBSW. All isolates notably solubilized tri-calcium phosphate compared to the uninoculated control. The highest phosphorous solubilization was observed from the isolate PSBYL, with a value of 10.61mg/50ml, followed by PSBW with a value of 9.08 mg/50ml. The decrease in pH value correlated with the levels of tri-phosphate solubilization in the PVK broth by the PSB isolates. The pH dropped to 4.64 from the initial pH of 7.2 when grown in the broth, which suggests that the production of organic acids is likely the primary mechanism for phosphate solubilization.
Lignocellulosic fiber reinforcement in PPRC composites: An analysis of structural and thermal enhancements
Authors: Rabbani Fahad Ali , Yasin Saima , Iqbal Tanveer , Mahmood Hamayoun , Mujtaba M. A. , Fouad Yasser , M. Soudagar Manzoore Elahi , Kalam M. A.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the fabrication process of biocomposites and their resultant mechanical and thermal properties, essential for evaluating the performance of finished products. Polypropylene random copolymer (PPRC) was employed as the matrix phase, while rice husk (RH), a biowaste filler, was incorporated in varying concentrations. The rice husk fiber was treated with alkali (RHT) to enhance its lignocellulosic content. To improve interfacial bonding, maleic anhydride and NaOH treatment were utilized. Glass fiber grafted on polypropylene (PPGF) and talc powder functioned as additives. Both raw and treated rice husk fibers were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and analytical methods to quantify the composition of lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, and ash. Significant structural changes were observed, with cellulose content increasing from 26% to 53%. Wood polymer composites (WPC) produced from raw and treated rice husk were evaluated based on morphological studies, Izod impact testing, water absorption, heat distortion temperature (HDT), and VICAT softening temperature (VST). The results demonstrated that the HDT and VST of WPC improved by 24% and 7%, respectively, compared to PPRC, indicating enhanced structural and thermal properties. Additionally, impact strength and water absorption were found to be dependent on cellulose concentrations in the biocomposite. This study underscores the environmental benefits of utilizing biowaste rice husk in biocomposites, promoting sustainability by converting agricultural waste into valuable materials with enhanced properties for various industrial applications.
The mouse gingiva and HIF-1α, a key gene of hypoxic environment, as tools for post-mortem time estimation
Authors: Mascarell Salomé , Torrens Coralie , Andrique Caroline , Foda Asmaa , Delabarde Tania , Ludes Bertrand , Collignon Anne-Margaux , Poliard Anne
Published: November 2024

The post-mortem interval (PMI) is the time elapsed between the death of an individual and its forensic examination. It is a crucial information for judicial authorities, but current techniques still cannot establish a precise time interval. Novel approaches are therefore required. Recently, gingival tissue has emerged as interesting for forensic analysis thanks to the protection offered by lips to this tissue, limiting the influence of environmental factors. It is also easily accessible, and its sampling is minimally invasive even in the presence of rigor mortis. Moreover, the expression of HIF-1α, a master mediator of the hypoxic environment, has been described in gingival samples at different post-mortem (PM) times. We have hypothesized that the time-dependent post-mortem expression of HIF-1α could serve as a biomarker to more accurately predict the PMI. Our analyses were performed in an animal model, the mouse, where environment can be precisely controlled. Therewith, gingival tissue morphology was evaluated through histochemical staining and HIF-1α expression was analyzed by qPCR, western blots and immunofluorescence at different post-mortem times (0h to 100h). Our results showed (a) a global post-mortem stability of gingival tissue (b) a rapid increase in HIF-1α mRNA expression in the short post-mortem times followed by a slow decrease in transcript expression until 100h PM (c) an expression of the HIF- 1α protein and its degradation products, that follows the mRNA pattern (d) the presence of HIF-1α protein in the epithelial and connective layers of the tissue, with signal accumulation in both gingival strata until at least 32h post-mortem. This pilot study thus validated the mouse and the gingival tissue as models for post-mortem analyses, as well as for studying the fate of proteins such as HIF-1α. Transferring these approaches to human subjects may provide a more accurate estimate of PMI.
Socioecological drivers of mutualistic and antagonistic plant-insect interactions and interaction outcomes in suburban landscapes
Authors: Fitch Gordon , Adler Lynn S. , Irwin Rebecca E. , Warren Paige S.
Published: November 2024

Cities are complex socioecological systems, yet most urban ecology research does not include the influence of social processes on ecological outcomes. Much of the research that does address social processes focuses primarily on their effects on biotic community composition, with less attention paid to how social processes affect species interactions. Linking social processes to ecological outcomes is complicated by high spatial heterogeneity in cities and the potential for scale mismatch between social and ecological processes, and the indicators used to assess those processes. Here, we assessed how social and ecological processes jointly influence the frequency and outcomes of species interactions among the native perennial vine Gelsemium sempervirens and its insect pollinators, nectar robbers, and florivores across 28 residential subdivisions in the Research Triangle region, NC, USA. We integrated data on socioeconomic attributes (mean property value, mean property size, subdivision age), vegetation attributes (forest cover and richness and density of managed and unmanaged floral resources), species interactions (conspecific and heterospecific pollen deposition, nectar robbing, florivory), and Gelsemium reproduction (fruit set, seeds per fruit) using structural equation modeling to understand the causal links between socioeconomic attributes, vegetation attributes, and interaction frequency and outcome. Among socioeconomic attributes, property value was the strongest predictor of interaction frequency, having both direct and vegetation-mediated indirect effects on pollination and florivory. However, the effect of socioeconomic attributes on plant reproduction was small. Overall, we were able to explain only a small amount of the variation in any species interaction or reproduction measure. This may be due to the functional similarity of subdivisions, despite large variation in both socioeconomic and vegetation attributes, or may reflect scale mismatch between the ecological and socioeconomic variables. Our findings highlight the need to develop scale-appropriate indicators to improve our understanding of the links between social and ecological processes in urban landscapes.
Virtual dentistry strategy to enhance knowledge, attitudes, and practices in selecting sweetened ultra-processed foods
Authors: Angarita-Díaz María del Pilar , Colmenares-Pedraza Johao Alexander , Arias-Ramirez Johanna Carolina , Cabrera-Arango Claudia Liliana , Cisneros-Hidalgo Cristhian Ariel , Muñoz-Espitia Sharon Daniela , Garzon-Baquero Jeisson Armando
Published: November 2024

Education on the selection of low-sugar ultra-processed foods (UPF) plays a crucial role in promoting good oral health. This study aimed to assess the impact of a virtual educational strategy, developed in the field of dentistry, on improve Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAPs) related to oral health and the appropriate selection of sweet-tasting UPF. A quasi-experimental study with a pre-test and post-test design was conducted, involving parents and caregivers of children and pre-adolescents. Thirteen virtual learning objects (VLO) were delivered via Facebook. To measure the impact of the strategy, a validated instrument was used before the intervention, immediately after, and again six months later to assess Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAPs) on the subject. The median scores before and after the intervention were compared using the Friedman test for related samples, followed by multiple comparisons with Dunn’s test. Participants’ KAP levels were analyzed using Pearson’s Chi-square test and multiple comparisons of column proportions with Bonferroni correction. Finally, a satisfaction and applicability survey was conducted. A significant improvement (p < 0.01) was observed in the participants’ median KAP scores both immediately after the intervention and six months later. A greater number of participants reached the highest level in knowledge (Before (B): 43.8%, Immediately After (IA): 86%, After six months (A6): 81.3%), attitudes (B: 34.2%, IA: 69.4%, A6: 65.2%), and practices (B: 22.5%, IA: 53.7%, A6: 47.3%). Most participants described the course as consistently dynamic, well-organized, and appropriate timing. They also expressed their intention to apply the knowledge in their daily lives. The implemented strategy improved participants’ KAPs concerning oral health and the appropriate selection of sweet-tasting UPF. It also resulted in participants’ children consuming fewer sweet bakery products, candies, and flavored milk. Additionally, more participants reported consistently reading food labels after the intervention, although this behavior was not adopted by the majority.
Response of Guiana dolphins to the construction of a bridge in Ilhéus, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Le Pendu Yvonnick , Lima Alice , Gomes Erica , Silva Winnie , Cruz Khamila Tondinelli Souza , Giné Gastón Andrés Fernandez
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to investigate whether the use of space and movements of Guiana dolphins were altered during the construction of a cable-stayed bridge at the mouth of the Cachoeira River estuary in Ilhéus, Brazil. We described and compared the visitation rate, use of space, and movements of the Guiana dolphins across two periods: before the construction began (2015–2016) and during the construction of the bridge (2017–2020). A theodolite and a total station were used to observe and record the trajectories of the dolphins. From these trajectories, we estimated the Utilization Distribution (UD) using the biased random bridge kernel (BRBK) method, the area of use, and the core area, based on the 95% and 50% BRBK density, respectively. The dolphins did not change their visitation frequency to the estuary. No significant change in area fidelity was identified by comparing the overlap of areas used during two-month periods. No change occurred in the velocity and linearity of the trajectories of the dolphins swimming close to the bridge. However, contrary to expectations, the results indicated an increase in the use of areas close to the bridge during its construction. This may have been caused by the change in the distribution of their prey in the estuary due to the emergence of a sandbank near the bridge. Bridge construction work seems not to have directly affected the Guiana dolphins’ use of the area, but the impact of the construction on the local topography has changed their areas of use and core areas of activity.
Dependence of far-red light on red and green light at increasing growth of lettuce
Authors: Kelly Nathan , Runkle Erik S.
Published: November 2024

Despite being outside of the traditionally defined photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) waveband (400–700 nm), far-red (FR; 700–799 nm) light can increase photosynthesis and induce shade-avoidance responses, which increases light interception and thus, whole-plant growth. However, it is unclear how the promotion of growth from FR light depends on PAR wavebands and specifically how the substitution of red light (600–699 nm) with green light (500–599 nm) influences the efficacy of FR light on increasing shoot biomass accumulation. To determine this, we grew red- and green-leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa) at a fixed total photon flux density (PFD) with 12 different fractions of red, green, and FR light and the same PFD of blue (400–499 nm) light. We postulated that decreasing the red:FR by substituting FR light for green light, red light, or both would increase shoot fresh mass (FM) until a fraction beyond which growth (but not leaf area) would begin to decrease. Indeed, the substitution of red with FR light increased the leaf area of both cultivars, but FM was greatest under an FR fraction [FR/(R+FR)] of approximately 0.25. Under the greatest FR PFD, FM was similar to lettuce grown without FR light, despite having greater leaf surface area for light interception. Green light had less of an effect on leaf expansion and FM than FR light, and plant diameter and leaf area of red-leaf ‘Rouxai’ were the greatest when green light fully replaced red light at the highest FR PFD. We conclude that under a modest light intensity and blue PFD, a spectrum that includes up to 25% of far-red photons can increase leaf area and biomass accumulation. While leaf area may continue to increase at higher far-red fractions, fresh mass does not, and plant quality begins to deteriorate.
Risk factors for conversion to thoracotomy in patients with lung cancer undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery: A meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Siyu , Yan Hong , Wen Jun , Zhou Zitong , Xu Jialan
Published: November 2024

Objective

To systematically evaluate the risk factors of conversion to thoracotomy in thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for lung cancer, and to provide a theoretical basis for the development of personalized surgical plans.

Methods

CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, CBM, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched by computer from the establishment of the database to March 2024. Relevant studies on the risk factors of conversion to thoracotomy in VATS for lung cancer were searched. Two reviewers independently performed literature screening, data extraction, and quality evaluation, and Stata16.0 software was used for data analysis.

Results

A total of 14 studies were included in this study, with a total sample size of 10605, and a total of 11 risk factors were obtained. Mate analysis showed that, Age ≥ 65 years old [OR(95%CI) = 2.61(1.67,4.09)], male [OR(95%CI) = 1.46(1.19,1.79)], BMI(Body Mass Index) ≥ 25 [OR(95%CI) = 1.79(1.17,2.74)], tuberculosis history [OR(95%CI) = 7.67(4.25,13.83)], enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes [OR(95%CI) = 2.33(1.50,3.06)], lung door swollen lymph nodes [OR(95%CI) = 6.33(2.07,19.32)], pleural adhesion [OR(95%CI) = 2.50(1.93,3.25)], tumor located in the lung Upper lobe [OR(95%CI) = 4.01(2.87,5.60)], sleeve lobectomy [OR(95%CI) = 3.40(1.43,8.08)], diameter of tumor ≥ 3.5cm [OR(95%CI) = 2.13(1.15,3.95)] associated with lung cancer VATS transit thoracotomy.

Conclusions

Age ≥ 65 years old, male, BMI ≥ 25, tuberculosis history, enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes, lung door swollen lymph nodes, pleural adhesion, tumor located in the lung Upper lobe, sleeve lobectomy, diameter of tumor ≥ 3.5cm are risk factors for conversion to thoracotomy during VATS for lung cancer. Clinicians should pay attention to the above factors before VATS to avoid forced conversion due to the above factors during VATS. Due to the number and limitations of the included studies, the above conclusions need to be validated by additional high-quality studies.

Trail registration

The protocol was registered into the PROSPERO database under the number CRD42023478648.
Evaluation of urban ecological livability and obstacle factor diagnosis from a synergistic perspective: A case study of Zhangjiajie City, China
Authors: Deng Mingrong , Zhu Shenhai , He Bihu , Zhang Heli
Published: November 2024

The construction of ecological livability plays a crucial role in achieving ecological civilization. During economic development, conflicts between urban populations, resources, and the environment have become increasingly prominent. Although China’s efforts in building ecological livability have made certain achievements, they are still in the early stages, making research in this area very necessary. This study aims to establish an indicator system for the level of ecological livability construction from four aspects: ecology, society, residents’ living conditions, and economy. Based on panel data from 2008 to 2021, the entropy-TOPSIS model was used to evaluate the level of ecological livability construction in Zhangjiajie City. Additionally, the coupling coordination degree model was employed to study the correlation and coordination among different indicators within the system. Furthermore, the obstacle degree model was introduced to explore the main factors affecting the improvement of ecological livability construction levels. The results show that, over the fourteen-year period, the proximity of Zhangjiajie City’s ecological livability construction level decreased from 0.2712 in 2008 to 0.2547 in 2010, then rose to 0.7686 in 2021, reaching a medium coordination level, with the constraining effects among the ecological livability systems weakening. The average wage of employees, the proportion of social security and employment expenditure to fiscal expenditure, the per capita total postal and telecommunications business volume, the per capita number of public library collections, and the proportion of education expenditure to fiscal expenditure have become the main influencing factors of Zhangjiajie City’s ecological livability construction level.
Effectiveness of treatment for concussion-related convergence insufficiency: The CONCUSS study protocol for a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Alvarez Tara L. , Scheiman Mitchell , Gohel Suril , Hajebrahimi Farzin , Noble Melissa , Sangoi Ayushi , Yaramothu Chang , Master Christina L. , Goodman Arlene
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To describe CONCUSS, a randomized clinical trial (RCT) designed to compare the following: the effectiveness of immediate office-based vergence/accommodative therapy with movement (OBVAM) to delayed OBVAM as treatments for concussion-related convergence insufficiency (CONC-CI) to understand the impact of time (watchful waiting), the effect of OBVAM dosage (12 versus 16 therapy sessions), and to investigate the underlying neuro-mechanisms of OBVAM on CONC-CI participants.

Methods

CONCUSS is an RCT indexed on https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05262361 enrolling 100 participants aged 11–25 years with medically diagnosed concussion, persistent post-concussive symptoms 4–24 weeks post-injury, and symptomatic convergence insufficiency. Participants will receive standard concussion care and will be randomized to either immediate OBVAM or delayed (by six weeks) OBVAM. At the Outcome 1 examination (week 7), clinical assessments of success as determined by changes in the near point of convergence (NPC), positive fusional vergence (PFV), and symptoms will be compared between the two treatment groups. After the Outcome 1 visit, those in the delayed group receive 16 visits of OBVAM, while those in the immediate OBVAM group receive four more therapy visits. Outcome 2 assessment will be used to compare both groups after participants receive 16 sessions of OBVAM. The primary measure is the between-group differences of the composite change in the NPC and PFV at the Outcome 1 visit. Secondary outcome measures include individual clinical measures, objective eye-tracking parameters, and functional brain imaging.

Conclusions

Major features of the study design include formal definitions of conditions and outcomes, standardized diagnostic and treatment protocols, a delayed treatment arm, masked outcome examinations, and the incorporation of objective eye movement recording and brain imaging as outcome measures. CONCUSS will establish best practices in the clinical care of CONC-CI. The objective eye movement and brain imaging, correlated with the clinical signs and symptoms, will determine the neuro-mechanisms of OBVAM on CONC-CI.
Distinct pathways for evolution of enhanced receptor binding and cell entry in SARS-like bat coronaviruses
Authors: Tse Alexandra L. , Acreman Cory M. , Ricardo-Lax Inna , Berrigan Jacob , Lasso Gorka , Balogun Toheeb , Kearns Fiona L. , Casalino Lorenzo , McClain Georgia L. , Chandran Amartya Mudry , Lemeunier Charlotte , Amaro Rommie E. , Rice Charles M. , Jangra Rohit K. , McLellan Jason S. , Chandran Kartik , Miller Emily Happy
Published: November 2024

Understanding the zoonotic risks posed by bat coronaviruses (CoVs) is critical for pandemic preparedness. Herein, we generated recombinant vesicular stomatitis viruses (rVSVs) bearing spikes from divergent bat CoVs to investigate their cell entry mechanisms. Unexpectedly, the successful recovery of rVSVs bearing the spike from SHC014-CoV, a SARS-like bat CoV, was associated with the acquisition of a novel substitution in the S2 fusion peptide-proximal region (FPPR). This substitution enhanced viral entry in both VSV and coronavirus contexts by increasing the availability of the spike receptor-binding domain to recognize its cellular receptor, ACE2. A second substitution in the S1 N–terminal domain, uncovered through the rescue and serial passage of a virus bearing the FPPR substitution, further enhanced spike:ACE2 interaction and viral entry. Our findings identify genetic pathways for adaptation by bat CoVs during spillover and host-to-host transmission, fitness trade-offs inherent to these pathways, and potential Achilles’ heels that could be targeted with countermeasures.
Cómo es presentada la historia contemporánea en los libros de textos chilenos para la escuela media
Authors: Oteiza Teresa , Balsas María Soledad
Published: November 2024

Este artículo proporciona un análisis textual del discurso pedagógico de los libros de texto de Historia utilizados en la educación chilena. En particular, me centro en cómo se construye en estos textos el impacto del gobierno socialista de Salvador Allende (1970-1973) y el Golpe Militar que condujo a la dictadura de Augusto Pinochet (1973–1990). Como método de análisis, aplico la Teoría de la Gramática Sistémico-Funcional para los libros de Historia utilizados en el sexto y el octavo grados. Dos de las metafunciones propuestas por Halliday –textual e interpersonal– son particularmente relevantes cuando son combinadas con el Análisis de Evaluación basado en el trabajo de Martin, ya que ofrecen una herramienta útil para interpretar y explicar el texto desde un punto de vista ideológico. El análisis muestra que los autores de los libros de texto se esfuerzan por parecer objetivos, pero, sin embargo, ofrecen un gran número de juicios -explícitos o implícitos- a lo largo del texto. Parecen presentar dos posiciones políticas antitéticas: la de los partidarios de Allende y la de los defensores del Golpe Militar. Sin embargo, los textos no ofrecen dos posiciones claras ni otorgan evidencias para los hechos. Por el contrario, los autores ocultan contenidos a través de opciones gramaticales y lexicales tales como: el uso de “y” como una expresión de causa o razón, proyecciones mentales y verbales, la ausencia de relaciones lógico-semánticas de elaboración y complementos modales que indican juicios pero no explicaciones. El Análisis de Evaluación junto con un más discreto análisis gramatical es útil para hacer evidente lo explícito, las opciones subjetivas realizadas en la construcción de estos textos supuestamente objetivos.
Lodomér esztergomi érsek politikai pályájának egyes vonatkozásai
Authors: Hunyadi Sándor
Published: November 2024

In the Hungarian historiography, the end of the reign of King Ladislaus IV and the rule of King Andrew III is generally associated with strong ecclesiastical intervention, with a particular emphasis on Archbishop Lodomér of Esztergom and Archbishop John of Kalocsa. In my writing, I examine two questions in connection with the political career of Archbishop Lodomér of Esztergom. Firstly, based on the interpretation of Tamás Pálosfalvi regarding the understanding of the estate, I explore the extent to which the former statements made by József Gerics, especially in connection with the laws of 1290, remain relevant. Secondly, I examine whether it was in the interest of the churchmen during that period to limit royal power and, if so, why.
Influence of different plant growth retardants in Mexican lawn grass (Zoysia matrella) for reducing the mowing frequency and better visual qualities
Authors: Velmurugan M , Tamilarasi R , Thamizhkalai V , Anand M , Sumera S , Rajamani K , Pugalendhi L , Kalarani M K , Ravichandran V , Velmurugan S , Boopathi N M
Published: November 2024

Mexican lawn grass (Zoysia matrella) is a perennial mat-forming species suited for the landscaping industry due to its versatile adaptability. The pleasing appearance of the lawn grasses can be achieved through mowing at regular intervals to avoid a shabby appearance, which requires skilled persons and ends up with expensive operation. Under these circumstances, the experiment was intended with the commonly available growth regulators for their efficiency in the reduction of the mowing cycle without losing or hampering their visual quality attributes. The application of 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4) produced a mean grass leaf length of 2.00 cm, which was remarkably lower than that of control (T9), i.e., 4.87 cm. The same pattern of growth was exhibited during the 45th and 90th days after spraying. The mean turf shoot length (7.80 cm) and root length (13.40 cm) were observed in the control plots, while the application of 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4) produced 3.83 cm and 7.94 cm, respectively, determining its ability to hamper the growth of turf grass. The Z. matrella grass failed to produce flower heads by the application of 1.0% mepiquat chloride (T2), 0.5% chlormequat chloride (T3), 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4), 0.5% maleic hydrazide (T7) and 1.0% maleic hydrazide (T8). The control plots devoid of growth regulators initiate flower heads after 70 days. From the study, the application of 0.5% chlormequat chloride (T3) and 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4) exerted a low level of thatch accumulation and no flower head formation was observed with maximal visual scoring, leading to the commercial expeditions for the turf industry.