bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compact silica dual-band wavelength demultiplexer based on asymmetric-defined multimode interference coupler
Authors: Wang Manzhuo , Zhang Zhanwei , Xin Yu , Fang Jimin , Liu Tingyu , Sun Xiaoqiang , Wu Yuanda , Zhang Daming
Published: January 2025

Limited refractive index difference of silica waveguide brings great size challenges in wavelength demultiplexing. A silica dual-band wavelength demultiplexer (DBWD) based on an asymmetric multimode interference coupler (MMI) is demonstrated. The selective separation and output of target dual bands can be implemented using the proposed design method based on asymmetric-defined MMI couplers. The beam propagation method is adopted to verify the proposed design principle. Standard CMOS fabrication is used in demultiplexer preparation. At λ=1350 nm, insertion loss (IL) and crosstalk (CT) at port Output1 are 1.94 dB and −24.92 dB, respectively. At λ=1550 nm, IL and CT at port Output2 are 2.44 dB and −29.00 dB, respectively. The 3-dB bandwidth (BW3 dB) for Output1 and Output2 are 82 nm (1297-1379 nm) and 87 nm (1492-1579 nm), respectively. The corresponding CT for Output1 and Output2 are < −7.16 dB and < −12.9 dB, respectively. Due to the introduction of asymmetric MMI coupler, the footprint is reduced to 0.1 mm2 (25 µm × 4000 µm). Because of the periodic characteristic, the wavelength demultiplexing can be extended from O/C bands to E/L bands by a reshaped asymmetric-MMI coupler. Even by combining more asymmetric-MMI couplers with different etched sections, all 18 channels of coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM) transmission (1270-1610 nm) can be covered. The favorable manufacturing tolerance facilitates large-scale integration and mass production.
Intercomparison of satellite-derived SST with logger data in the Caribbean—Implications for coral reef monitoring
Authors: Margaritis Georgios , Kent Elizabeth C. , Foster Gavin L.
Published: January 2025

Since the early 1980s measurements of Sea Surface Temperature (SST) derived from satellite-borne instruments have provided a wide range of global gridded products documenting changes in SST. However, there are many sources of uncertainty in these records and significant differences exist among them. One use of these products is identification of coral bleaching events, and the predictions of the impact of future warming on coral reefs. This relies on an understanding of how temperatures near reefs as recorded by SST products differ from the in-situ SST experienced by the corals. This difference is a combination of real spatio-temporal variations, inadequate in product resolution and errors in the products. This paper investigates the relationship between the local temperature measured in-situ by loggers at coral sites in the western tropical Atlantic and two high resolution satellite SST products. Using differences among ESA SST CCI v2.1 (CCI analysis SST), NOAA CoralTemp SST products and in-situ logger data from coral reefs, an assessment of the satellite products with focus on coral reef monitoring is carried out. Discrepancies between the two products can be large, especially in coastal areas and for the warmest and coldest months when there is a particular risk of bleaching. By comparison to the stable CCI analysis SST product, CoralTemp was found to overestimate the rise in SST by as much as 0.20°C per decade. In almost all cases SSTs from CCI analysis SST were more consistent with temperatures measured near the corals than those from CoralTemp.
A twofold perspective on the quality of research publications: The use of ICTs and research activity models
Authors: Wartini-Twardowska Jolanta , Twardowska Natalia Paulina
Published: January 2025

Previous studies have highlighted the inherent subjectivity, complexity, and challenges associated with research quality leading to fragmented findings. We identified determinants of research publication quality in terms of research activities and the use of information and communication technologies by employing an interdisciplinary approach. We conducted web-based surveys among academic scientists and applied machine learning techniques to model behaviors during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Using model-agnostic explanations, we identified the determinants of research publication quality across 66 activity models. These models reflect the variety of behaviors among academic scientists during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our two-fold perspective distinguishes between research activities of academic scientists who increase research publication quality and those who maintain it. Notably, our findings reveal a diversity within activity models in shaping research publication quality. Academic institutions can apply our approach to analyze research staff behavior, stimulate activities, and ensure alignment with institutional objectives, thereby fostering individual and team complementarity.
Assessing the global dynamics of Nipah infection under vaccination and treatment: A novel computational modeling approach
Authors: Yu Fang , Younas Khan Muhammad , Bilal Riaz Muhammad , Ullah Saif , Farooq Muhammad
Published: January 2025

In biology and life sciences, fractal theory and fractional calculus have significant applications in simulating and understanding complex problems. In this paper, a compartmental model employing Caputo-type fractional and fractal-fractional operators is presented to analyze Nipah virus (NiV) dynamics and transmission. Initially, the model includes nine nonlinear ordinary differential equations that consider viral concentration, flying fox, and human populations simultaneously. The model is reconstructed using fractional calculus and fractal theory to better understand NiV transmission dynamics. We analyze the model’s existence and uniqueness in both contexts and instigate the equilibrium points. The clinical epidemiology of Bangladesh is used to estimate model parameters. The fractional model’s stability is examined using Ulam-Hyers and Ulam-Hyers-Rassias stabilities. Moreover, interpolation methods are used to construct computational techniques to simulate the NiV model in fractional and fractal-fractional cases. Simulations are performed to validate the stable behavior of the model for different fractal and fractional orders. The present findings will be beneficial in employing advanced computational approaches in modeling and control of NiV outbreaks.
Re-evaluation of the Bahariya Formation carcharodontosaurid (Dinosauria: Theropoda) and its implications for allosauroid phylogeny
Authors: Kellermann Maximilian , Cuesta Elena , Rauhut Oliver W. M.
Published: January 2025

The first partial skeleton of a carcharodontosaurid theropod was described from the Egyptian Bahariya Oasis by Ernst Stromer in 1931. Stromer referred the specimen to the species Megalosaurus saharicus, originally described on the basis of isolated teeth from slightly older rocks in Algeria, under the new genus name Carcharodontosaurus saharicus. Unfortunately, almost all of the material from the Bahariya Oasis, including the specimen of Carcharodontosaurus was destroyed during World War II. In 1996, a relatively complete carcharodontosaurid cranium was described from similar aged rocks in Morocco and designated the neotype of the species Carcharodontosaurus saharicus in 2007. However, due to the destruction of the original material, comparisons of the neotype to the Egyptian fossils have so far only been done cursorily. A detailed reexamination of the available information on the Egyptian carcharodontosaurid, including a previously undescribed photograph of the exhibited specimen, reveals that it differs from the Moroccan neotype in numerous characters, such as the development of the emargination of the antorbital fossa on the nasals, the presence of a horn-like rugosity on the nasal, the lack of a dorsoventral expansion of the lacrimal contact on the frontals, and the relative enlargement of the cerebrum. The referability of the Egyptian specimen to the Algerian M. saharicus is found to be questionable, and the neotype designation of the Moroccan material for C. saharicus is accepted here under consideration of ICZN Atricle 75, as it both compares more favorably to M. saharicus and originates from a locality closer to the type locality. A new genus and species, Tameryraptor markgrafi gen. et sp. nov, is proposed for the Egyptian taxon. The theropods of the Bahariya Oasis and the Moroccan Kem Kem Group are thus not as closely related as previously thought, and the proposed faunal similarities between these two strata need further examination.
The role of health shocks after age 70 on housing and wealth profiles
Authors: Aydilek Asiye
Published: January 2025

We conduct a novel investigation into the effects of uncertain health shocks and medical costs on the life cycle consumption, housing, and saving decisions. Our model aids in understanding the role of health shocks and medical costs after age 70 in explaining the lack of wealth and housing decumulation during retirement. We utilize a comprehensive life-cycle model that includes housing, as well as shocks to house price, labor income, and health. Our model could be useful for policy evaluation and future studies concerning older adults. Our first contribution to the previous literature is modeling the whole adult life-cycle. This enables us to determine whether decisions in youth and middle age are influenced by anticipated health shocks in old age. Our second contribution is modeling housing explicitly with health shocks. Conclusions regarding the savings puzzle may be significantly influenced by the explicit modeling of housing. We develop a more realistic model by relaxing some of the assumptions made in previous studies. We find that health shocks motivate the household to accumulate higher wealth before retirement. Moreover, as health shocks become more severe, individuals reduce their consumption and decumulate less wealth in old age. Health shocks help explain the flat trends observed in the housing and wealth profiles of older adults. The possible health shocks after age 70 affect the decisions in young and middle ages only marginally. The wealth profile in middle and old age is affected by health shocks.
Respectful maternity care and mistreatment: Women’s experiences during induction of labor and childbirth in Ghana
Authors: Adu-Bonsaffoh Kwame , Newman Grace T. , Atobrah-Apraku Kenneth , Opuni-Frimpong Yaw , Seffah Joseph D.
Published: January 2025

Background

Most studies on respectful maternity care (RMC) and mistreatment of women have focused on intrapartum care with limited information on how women are treated during induction of labor (IOL), pre-labor phase of the maternity care continuum. Emerging multi-country evidence indicates that nearly 30% of women who undergo IOL do not consent to the procedure and constitutes a violation of their rights to optimal maternal health. This study explored women’s lived experiences of respectful care and mistreatment during IOL in a tertiary setting in Ghana.

Methods

This was a qualitative phenomenological study conducted between September 2021 to October 2021 in Ghana. The eligibility criteria comprised women, aged ≥ 18 years who underwent IOL with singleton gestations. Purposive sampling was employed in recruiting the study participants (n = 17). Data analysis was performed based on thematic content using the inductive qualitative analytic framework approach.

Results

Nearly all the participants (94.1%) were first-timers to IOL. In general, we determined mixed findings relating to the experiences of RMC (respectful versus disrespectful care). Some women experienced respectful care including effective communication, optimal counseling and appropriate professionalism resulting in adequate client satisfaction with care. Conversely, we determined that some mothers experienced mistreatment of different types during labor induction and birth including verbal abuse, lack of privacy, neglect, ineffective communication, inadequate pain relief, non-consented care and inadequate professional standards. There were no reports of physical abuse. Mixed responses (positive and negative) were heartily described concerning future utilization of the health facility considering the quality of care they received. Personalized recommendations to improve the quality of care during IOL were provided by the affected women and these summed up to RMC (e.g. effective communication, adequate analgesia, shared-decision making).

Conclusion

Our study indicates that women experience varied forms of mistreatment during induction of labor and childbirth, and can be potentially traumatic psychologically considering their prolonged exposure to health facilities. Context specific strategies to expedite integration and adherence to RMC guidelines in maternity care are recommended to improve the quality of care during induction of labor and birth.
A scoping review of interventions on middle school students’ attitudes towards science
Authors: García-Pérez Noé Manuel , Peñaloza Gonzalo
Published: January 2025

The aim of the study was to review the scientific literature on educational interventions to promote positive attitudes towards science in middle school students. Due to the decline in positive attitudes towards science observed in this critical age group of students and the implementation of training programmes aimed at changing this situation, we sought to identify components of training proposals that have received attention from researchers. This paper presents a scoping review of 37 papers published in English and Spanish over the last 10 years. The review aims to describe the research outputs and analyse the effectiveness and characteristics of program interventions, drawing from various databases. The results show the need to examine the operational definition of the constructs used in the programmes, to focus attention on the influence of intrinsic variables on middle school students’ attitudes towards science, such as racial group or self-efficacy, and to conduct follow-up evaluations to assess the permanence of attitudes. While acknowledging limitations related to construct clarity or language restrictions in the search process the findings suggest that middle school students’ attitudes towards science remain an open area of research, as there is no consensus on the characteristics of effective programmes.
Asynchronous effects of heat stress on growth rates of massive corals and damselfish in the Red Sea
Authors: Zahid Fiza , Gajdzik Laura , Korsmeyer Keith E. , Cotton Jordyn D. , Coker Daren J. , Berumen Michael L. , DeCarlo Thomas M.
Published: January 2025

Climate change is imposing multiple stressors on marine life, leading to a restructuring of ecological communities as species exhibit differential sensitivities to these stressors. With the ocean warming and wind patterns shifting, processes that drive thermal variations in coastal regions, such as marine heatwaves and upwelling events, can change in frequency, timing, duration, and severity. These changes in environmental parameters can physiologically impact organisms residing in these habitats. Here, we investigate the synchrony of coral and reef fish responses to environmental disturbance in the Red Sea, including an unprecedented combination of heat stress and upwelling that led to mass coral bleaching in 2015. We developed cross-dated growth chronologies from otoliths of 156 individuals of two planktivorous damselfish species, Pomacentrus sulfureus and Amblyglyphidodon flavilatus, and from skeletal cores of 48 Porites spp. coral colonies. During and immediately after the 2015 upwelling and bleaching event, damselfishes exhibited a positive growth anomaly but corals displayed reduced growth. Yet, after 2015–2016, these patterns were reversed with damselfishes showing a decline in growth and corals rebounding to pre-disturbance growth rates. Our results reveal an asynchronous response between corals and reef fish, with corals succumbing to the direct effects of heat stress, and then quickly recovering when the heat stress subsided—at least, for those corals that survived the bleaching event. Conversely, damselfish growth temporarily benefited from the events of 2015, potentially due to the increased metabolic demand from increased temperature and increased food supply from the upwelling event, before declining over four years, possibly related to indirect effects associated with habitat degradation following coral mortality. Overall, our study highlights the increasingly complex, often asynchronous, ecological ramifications of climate extremes on the diverse species assemblages of coral reefs.
Flexibility in choosing decision policies in gathering discrete evidence over time
Authors: Golmohamadian Masoumeh , Faraji Mehrbod , Fallah Fatemeh , Sharifizadeh Fatemeh , Ebrahimpour Reza
Published: January 2025

The brain can remarkably adapt its decision-making process to suit the dynamic environment and diverse aims and demands. The brain’s flexibility can be classified into three categories: flexibility in choosing solutions, decision policies, and actions. We employ two experiments to explore flexibility in decision policy: a visual object categorization task and an auditory object categorization task. Both tasks required participants to accumulate discrete evidence over time, with the only difference being the sensory state of the stimuli. We aim to investigate how the brain demonstrates flexibility in selecting decision policies in different sensory contexts when the solution and action remain the same. Our results indicate that the decision policy of the brain in integrating information is independent of inter-pulse interval across these two tasks. However, the decision policy based on how the brain ranks the first and second pulse of evidence changes flexibly. We show that the sequence of pulses does not affect the choice accuracy in the auditory mode. However, in the visual mode, the first pulse had the larger leverage on decisions. Our research underscores the importance of incorporating diverse contexts to improve our understanding of the brain’s flexibility in real-world decision-making.
Nutritional assessment of adolescents: A cross-sectional study from public schools of North India
Authors: Kaur Sandeep , Kumar Rajesh , Kaur Manmeet
Published: January 2025

Background

Technological advancements and globalization have shifted dietary behaviours, contributing to increased chronic disease prevalence in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) like India. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable due to these changes, which can impact their lifelong health. This study aimed to assess the nutritional status of adolescents in public schools in Chandigarh, India.

Methodology

Conducted as part of a cluster randomized control trial, the study used two-stage random sampling to select 12 schools and eighth-grade classes, recruiting 453 adolescents aged 10–16 years. Nutritional status was evaluated through dietary behaviour assessments, anthropometric measurements, and 24-hour urinary salt-level analysis. Dietary patterns were recorded using two 24-hour recalls, and analyzed with PURE study software based on 2010 Indian dietary data from ICMR-NIN. Anthropometric measures followed standardized protocols, and salt levels were assessed in laboratories.

Results

The mean age of the adolescents was 13.06 years, with 55% being boys. Among them, 32% had high salt intake, and 55% had high sugar intake. Additionally, 90% had low fruit intake, and 83% had low vegetable intake. The adolescents were deficient in several macro and micronutrients, including energy, fats, fibre, iron, zinc, iodine, riboflavin, and vitamins B-6 and B-12. A higher proportion of boys (10%) were classified as thin compared to girls (2%), while a greater proportion of girls (36%) had abdominal obesity. In contrast, a larger proportion of boys (23%) were severely acutely malnourished. Nearly all adolescents exhibited high urinary excretory salt levels.

Conclusion

Most adolescents exhibited dietary risk factors, including high salt and sugar intake, along with low consumption of fruits and vegetables. Many were deficient in various macro and micronutrients, with the coexistence of both thinness and obesity. Regular nutritional assessments in schools are essential to address the dual burden of undernutrition and overnutrition. Furthermore, health-promoting interventions should be developed within school settings to encourage healthy dietary practices.
A prospective observational study on persistent postoperative pediatric pain, 4P: The study protocol
Authors: Broman Johanna , Nielsen Niklas , Persson Anna K. M.
Published: January 2025

Background

Access to adequate pain treatment is a fundamental right, yet international data suggest that a considerable number of children experience acute and persistent pain. Little is known about the occurrence of both acute and persistent pain in children. The incidence of persistent postoperative pain in children is an unexplored area but international studies suggest that many children experience long-term pain after surgery, with a major impact on daily life. In 4P, Persistent Postoperative Pediatric Pain, we want to estimate the incidence of acute and persistent postoperative pediatric pain. The European Society for Paediatric Anaesthesiology has developed guidelines for perioperative pain management. We aim to examine how well these guidelines are followed and whether adherence to guidelines influences the pain experienced after surgery.

Method

4P is a prospective observational study of children aged 1–17, planned for surgery in southern Sweden 2023–2024. After agreement from all caregivers, data concerning preoperative pain, pre-emptive analgesia, perioperative management and postoperative pain will be collected. Via an electronic management software, pain will be evaluated at home (or in hospital) at 24h, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. We will include 1000 patients.

Discussion

4P will prospectively follow a large number of children after general pediatric surgeries and evaluate the occurrence of postoperative pain, both acute (APOP) and persistent (PPOP). The study will assess pain treatment regimens and identify risk factors associated with the development of acute and persistent pediatric postoperative pain.

Trial registration

Prospectively posted at ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT06035042.
A networked station system for high-resolution wind nowcasting in air traffic operations: A data-augmented deep learning approach
Authors: Alves Décio , Mendonça Fábio , Mostafa Sheikh Shanawaz , Freitas Diogo , Pestana João , Vieira Dinarte , Radeta Marko , Morgado-Dias Fernando
Published: January 2025

This study introduces a high-resolution wind nowcasting model designed for aviation applications at Madeira International Airport, a location known for its complex wind patterns. By using data from a network of six meteorological stations and deep learning techniques, the produced model is capable of predicting wind speed and direction up to 30-minute ahead with 1-minute temporal resolution. The optimized architecture demonstrated robust predictive performance across all forecast horizons. For the most challenging task, the 30-minute ahead forecasts, the model achieved a wind speed Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 0.78 m/s and a wind direction MAE of 33.06°. Furthermore, the use of Gaussian noise concatenation to both input and label training data yielded the most consistent results. A case study further validated the model’s efficacy, with MAE values below 0.43 m/s for wind speed and between 33.93° and 35.03° for wind direction across different forecast horizons. This approach shows that combining strategically deployed sensor networks with machine learning techniques offers improvements in wind nowcasting for airports in complex environments, possibly enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
A scoping review protocol on brain PaCO2 levels at altitude
Authors: Tang Hanna , Charlesworth Laurel , Lalu Manoj , Dewar Brian , Shorr Risa , Dowlatshahi Dariush
Published: January 2025

Background

Aeromedical transfer of patients with ischemic stroke to access hyperacute stroke treatment is becoming increasingly common. Little is known about how rapid changes of altitude and atmospheric pressure can impact cerebral perfusion and ischemic burden. In patients with ischemic stroke, there is a theoretical possibility that this physiologic response of hypoxia-driven hyperventilation at higher altitude can lead to a relative drop in PaCO2. This would ultimately result in cerebral vasoconstriction, and therefore worsening of the ischemic burden in patients with ischemic stroke. Currently, there are no specific recommendations in stroke guidelines for optimizing altitude of aeromedical transportation to minimize the rate of ischemic burden. In this scoping review, we aim to map the available literature that addressed whether PaCO2 changes with altitude. This would be the steppingstone for more in-depth analyses into the cerebral autoregulatory consequences of high altitude on cerebral ischemia to form future guidelines.

Methods and analysis

We will follow scoping review methods recommended by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Electronic databases MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Systematic will be systematically searched to identify articles that report on the acute response of PaCO2 on acute change in altitude. Two independent investigators will perform duplicate title and abstract screening and full-text review, followed by duplicate data extraction. We will present quantitative data using descriptive statistics. Key textual information will be synthesized in a tabular format Simple statistics on the frequency of papers, data will be presented via histogram.

Ethics and dissemination

This scoping review does not require ethical approval. The results of our scoping review will be published in academic medical journals and presented at medical conferences. The findings will highlight the current availability of literature on PaCO2 changes with altitude.

Registration

This scoping review protocol has been registered in Open Science Framework (DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/UVK83).
Unravelling the transcriptomic dynamics of Hyphopichia pseudoburtonii in co-culture with Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Maluleke Evelyn , Jolly Neil Paul , Patterton Hugh-George , Setati Mathabatha Evodia
Published: January 2025

Hyphopichia pseudoburtonii, is emerging as a potential biocontrol agent against various phytopathogens. These traits have been attributed to the production of various antifungal compounds in the presence of target pathogens. However, the broad molecular mechanisms involved in the antifungal activity are not yet understood. This study employed RNA sequencing to assess the temporal changes in H. pseudoburtonii Y963 gene expression patterns when co-cultivated with Botrytis cinerea. Genes differentially expressed in H. pseudoburtonii in co-culture with B. cinerea, compared to the monoculture were evaluated after 24, 48, and 120 h of growth. Up-regulation of genes encoding major core histones (H2A, H3, H4) and ribosomes in the first 24 h suggested an abundance of cells in the S phase of the cell cycle. At 48 h, the genes up-regulated highlight mitotic cell cycle activity and induction of filamentous growth, while in later stages, up-regulation of genes encoding high affinity transporters of sugars, copper and iron, as well as those involved in the retention and utilization of siderophore-iron was evident. Altogether, the data allude to competition for space and nutrients as key mechanisms activated in H. pseudoburtonii in the presence of B. cinerea. This research offers new insights into H. pseudoburtonii transcriptomic response to B. cinerea and illuminates the adaptive strategies and molecular mechanisms behind its antifungal activity.
Plant-derived Pembrolizumab in conjugation with IL-15Rα-IL-15 complex shows effective anti-tumor activity
Authors: Rattanapisit Kaewta , Suwanchaikasem Pipob , Bulaon Christine Joy I. , Guo Shiying , Phoolcharoen Waranyoo
Published: January 2025

Anti-programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have proven to be effective in treating various cancers, including colorectal, lung, and melanoma. Despite their clinical success, some patients develop resistance to mAbs, requiring co-treatments with radio- or chemotherapy. Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is an immunostimulatory cytokine that promotes immune cell production and proliferation. It has been combined with mAbs and other immunotherapies to improve efficacy and reduce side effects. Fusion of anti-PD-1 mAb and IL-15 streamlines drug administration and management. In this study, we developed a prototype by conjugating the IL-15 receptor subunit alpha (IL-15Rα) and IL-15 complex to the C-terminus of anti-PD-1 Pembrolizumab (Pembrolizumab-IL-15Rα-IL15) using plant molecular farming for production. LC-MS revealed the presence of plant N-glycans (GnGnXF, GnXF and Man9GlcNAc2) on the molecule, which may affect receptor-binding avidity. However, ELISA demonstrated comparable binding efficacy of Pembrolizumab-IL-15Rα-IL15 to human PD-1 protein as commercial Pembrolizumab. In a mouse anti-cancer study, Pembrolizumab-IL-15Rα-IL15 (3 mg kg-1) exhibited slightly improved tumor-growth inhibition, reducing tumor size by 94% compared to commercial Pembrolizumab (5 mg kg-1) with an 83% reduction, regardless of statistically significant difference. In conclusion, Pembrolizumab-IL-15Rα-IL-15 was successfully produced using plant molecular farming and shows promise in addressing mAb drug resistance and enhancing the immunomodulatory effects of IL-15 payload.
Analysis of the social-epistemological dimensions of a Clinical Teaching Unit and Small Private Online Course compared to a traditional clerkship Internal Medicine
Authors: Hamoen Esther C. , van Blankenstein Floris M. , de Jong Peter G. M. , Reinders Marlies E. J.
Published: January 2025

Clinical workplace learning is often suboptimal due to the dynamics of the clinical learning environment and several challenges encountered in clinical practice. At LUMC, clinical teachers introduced a novel blended learning program that included both the introduction of a Clinical Teaching Unit (CTU) and Small Private Online Course (SPOC). This study aimed to analyze the educational content and design of our educational interventions, by categorizing and comparing the dimensions of the learning program before and after the interventions. The novel blended learning program was integrated into a clerkship internal medicine, aiming to optimize clerks’ clinical workplace learning. Therefore, a traditional inpatient ward was transformed into a CTU, featuring the introduction of learning activities that promoted multidisciplinary and interprofessional learning. It included an integrated SPOC, aiming to improve clinical reasoning skills, feedback and collaboration of the clerks. The authors analyzed the clerkships’ content and design, by categorizing the social-epistemological dimensions of the teaching modes offered before (traditional clerkship) and after (including CTU and SPOC) the intervention. These dimensions consisted of individual versus group (collaborative), and objectivist versus constructive learning categories. The CTU model added eleven group activities to the clinical workplace, of which nine were characterized as constructivist-group activities. It also led to more active learning of the clerks, compared to the traditional clerkship. Analysis of the SPOC revealed 344 teaching modes in total, which included 113 objectivist–individual, 205 constructive–individual and 23 constructive–group activities. Compared to a traditional clerkship, the CTU with SPOC led to more constructivist and collaborative learning and a more diverse educational program. This study illustrates a methodology to address active and collaborative learning activities in an educational program, and offers tools to evaluate and redesign one’s teaching program. The methods and models described can be applied to clinical environments in other areas of medicine.
Plant community and structural pattern analyses of Abraham Sacred Forest in Amhara Regional State, northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Kassa Getinet Masresha , Teka Ayenew Lisanu , Melese Getahun Tassew
Published: January 2025

Owing to its topographic variations, Ethiopia is a biodiversity-rich country. However, the long-term degradation of resources has resulted in isolated forest patches largely around sacred places. Thus, this work was aimed to evaluate the plant community formation and structural dynamics of the Abraham Sacred Forest patch. Data were collected from 60 plots located on transect lines. Five subplots (4 m2), four at each corner and center, were set to collect juveniles’ data. Individuals of each species and cover abundance were recorded, and adults’ stem girth was measured. Hierarchical cluster analysis was used to identify plant communities. A Kruskal-Wallis followed by Tukey’s honestly significant difference test was performed to check the statistical significance among the plant communities. Shannon-Wiener diversity index, equitability index, and non-parametric species richness estimators were used to quantify species diversity, evenness, and richness, respectively. Structural parameters and size class ratios were used to analyze the vegetation structure and regeneration status. Seventy wood species, distributed in 62 genera and 38 families, were recorded. Fabaceae was the most species-rich (10 species) family. Three plant communities were identified. A Kruskal-Wallis test indicated that the community types showed significant differences (P < 0.05) with respect to altitude and slope. The density and basal area of the forest were 4580.4 ha-1 and 35.18 m2ha-1 respectively. The inverted J-shaped pattern in DBH classes implies a good reproduction status. However, importance value index and regeneration status analyses revealed that certain species, like Astropanax abyssinicum (Hochst. ex. A. Rich) Seem, Myrica salicifolia Hochst. ex. A. Rich and Dombeya torrida (G.F.Gmel) Bamps, require conservation priority.
Association of blood urea nitrogen with 28-day mortality in critically ill patients: A multi-center retrospective study based on the eICU collaborative research database
Authors: Deng Ting , Wu Die , Liu Shan-shan , Chen Xing-lin , Zhao Zhen-wei , Zhang Lan-lang
Published: January 2025

Objective

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is a commonly used biomarker for assessing kidney function and neuroendocrine activity. Previous studies have indicated that elevated BUN levels are associated with increased mortality in various critically ill patient populations. The focus of this study was to investigate the relationship between BUN and 28-day mortality in intensive care patients.

Methods

This was a multi-centre retrospective cohort study that made use of data from the eICU Collaborative Research Database. The primary exposure variable was BUN, and the outcome was 28-day mortality. The following variables were included as covariates: age, gender, BMI, white blood cell count, creatinine, GCS score, APACHE IV score, and diabetes. The statistical analyses included univariate and multivariate logistic regression, as well as generalized additive modelling, which was employed to assess the non-linear relationship between BUN and mortality.

Results

A total of 63,757 elderly patients were included in the study, with a 28-day mortality of 6.5%. The univariate analysis indicated that elevated BUN quartiles were associated with an increased risk of mortality. The results of the multivariate analysis further confirmed the non-linear relationship between BUN and mortality. When BUN was less than 32 mg/dL, there was a significant positive association, with an adjusted odds ratio of 1.230 (95% CI: 1.154–1.311, p<0.0001) for every 10 mg/dL increase in BUN. However, when BUN was greater than or equal to 32 mg/dL, BUN level had no significant effect on mortality.

Conclusion

BUN showed a nonlinear, threshold correlation with 28-day mortality in critically ill patients. The higher the BUN, the greater the risk of death if the BUN is below the threshold.
In vivo imaging of mitochondrial function in normal, glaucoma suspect, and glaucoma eyes
Authors: Caro René , Chen Andrew , Mudumbai Raghu , Duerr Eric , Chen Philip P. , Bojikian Karine D.
Published: January 2025

To investigate macula and optic nerve head (ONH) mitochondrial metabolic activity using flavoprotein fluorescence (FPF) in normal, glaucoma suspect (GS), and open-angle glaucoma (OAG) eyes we performed a cross-sectional, observational study of FPF in normal, GS, and OAG eyes. The macula and ONH of each eye was scanned and analyzed with a commercially available FPF measuring device (OcuMet Beacon, OcuSciences Inc., Ann Arbor, MI). One-way analysis of variance was used to compare macula and ONH FPF scores between groups. Linear regression models investigated the correlation between FPF scores and structural and functional parameters. We included 25 normal, 16 GS, and 54 OAG eyes. The average age in years ± SD for normal, GS, and OAG groups was 60.6 ±17.4, 67.8 ± 10.3, and 67.9 ± 11.6, respectively (P = 0.064). There was no significant difference in gender, race/ethnicity, visual acuity, and intraocular pressure between groups. OAG eyes had larger cup-to-disc ratio, thinner retinal nerve fiber and macula thicknesses, and worse visual field indices compared to normal and GS eyes (P ≤ 0.018). There was no significant difference in any FPF metric between the study groups in either the macula or the ONH, despite normalizing FPF data for structural differences between groups (e.g. retinal nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness). In conclusion, no significant differences in metabolic activity as measured by FPF were found in macula and ONH FPF scores using the integrated clinician report generator between normal, GS, and OAG eyes. Further research is needed to evaluate the role of mitochondrial metabolic activity measurements in glaucoma.
Does curcumin supplementation affect inflammation, blood count and serum brain-derived neurotropic factor concentration in amateur long-distance runners?
Authors: Bańkowski Sebastian , Wójcik Ziemowit Bronisław , Grabara Małgorzata , Ozner Dariusz , Pałka Tomasz , Stanek Agata , Sadowska-Krępa Ewa
Published: January 2025

Curcumin is known for its potential health benefits; however, the evidence remains inconclusive regarding its necessity as a supplement for athletes during the preparatory phase of training. This study aimed to assess the effect of 6-week curcumin supplementation at a dose of 2g/day on selected inflammatory markers, blood count, and brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) levels in middle-aged amateur long-distance runners during the preparatory period of a macrocycle. Thirty runners were randomly assigned to either a curcumin-supplemented group (CUR, n = 15) or a placebo group (PLA, n = 15). Venous blood samples were collected at rest, immediately post-exercise, and 1h post-exercise. The participants underwent a graded exercise stress test, with an increasing inclination angle after reaching a speed of 14 km/h, both before and after the 6-week supplementation period. Blood samples were collected at rest, 3 minutes post-stress test, and after 1 hour of recovery. The results showed no significant changes in C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1 β (IL-1β), or blood morphology due to curcumin supplementation. However, BDNF levels increased by 21% in the CUR group post-supplementation, while a 5% decrease was observed in the PLA group. These findings do not support a significant effect of curcumin supplementation on inflammatory markers, blood count, or BDNF concentration. Further research is warranted to determine the potential benefits of curcumin supplementation for endurance athletes during the preparatory period for a training cycle.
Contestação anti-senhorial em Poiares nos finais do século XVIII: o papel do clero
Authors: Neto Margarida Sobral
Published: January 2025

Dans la deuxième moitié du XVIIIe siècle, le mouvement de contestation contre le régime seigneurial s'est intensifié au Portugal. Ce mouvement a été particulièrement intense dans la région centrale du pays, une zone dominée par des maisons seigneuriales nobles ou ecclésiastiques.Cet article analyse un cas de résistance au paiement d'un tribut seigneurial, une cotisation proportionnelle à la récolte de fruits exigée par l'Université de Coimbra des paysans de Poiares, localité du district de Coimbra. En se basant sur un document envoyé par les propriétaires de cette localité, dans lequel il est suggéré à la maison seigneuriale une stratégie de dissuasion des paysans rebelles pour qu'ils paient la redevance seigneuriale, il est possible d'observer le rôle décisif du clergé dans la définition des comportements des populations illettrées.
A ideia de "Estados Unidos da Europa" no Pós-Primeira Guerra: ecos na opinião pública portuguesa
Authors: Silva António Martins da
Published: January 2025

Dans les années 1920 du XXe siècle, deux types d'initiatives visant l'unité de l'Europe se sont distingués par leur importance et leur portée internationale. Le premier type inclut « l'Union paneuropéenne » du comte Coudenhove-Kalergi et, gravitant autour de son initiative, un éventail de positions et de réactions, parues surtout dans la presse et dans d'autres publications éditoriales ou lors de conférences et congrès, qu'elles fussent favorables, réticentes ou hostiles à l'idée des « États-Unis d'Europe ». Dans le deuxième type, au-delà de quelques mouvements associatifs et commerciaux, l'événement le plus important et pionnier est la présentation, en 1929, à la SDN, du projet d'Aristide Briand pour la création d'un « lien fédéral » européen, ainsi que les développements que cette intervention institutionnelle a déclenchés.
C'est précisément à ce premier type d'initiatives autour de l'idée d'Europe, émanant de la société civile depuis le Traité de Versailles jusqu'en 1929, que notre étude est consacrée: son contenu et ses manifestations, ses reflets et attitudes dans l'opinion publique portugaise.
As festas de corte em Portugal no período Filipino (1580-1640)
Authors: Paiva José Pedro
Published: January 2025

Neste estudo propõe-se um balanço historiográfico sobre o tema da festa e do cerimonial da monarquia durante o período da monarquia dual em Portugal (1580-1640), salientando os campos que têm sido cobertos pelas investigações já publicadas, as suas perspectivas de abordagem e articulação com as principais tendências de avaliação deste objecto na historiografia internacional.
A incursão não se confina às cerimónias da corte régia. Ela estende-se à análise do cerimonial enquanto instrumento de comunicação política (de poder) quer no âmbito de casas senhoriais (Casa de Bragança), quer da Igreja (através do exemplo das entradas solenes dos bispos nas suas dioceses).
La presencia de la literatura hispanoamericana en Educación Secundaria Obligatoria y Bachillerato en España. Concepciones del profesorado
Authors: Suárez Hernán Carolina , Bermúdez Martínez María
Published: January 2025

Este artículo analiza la presencia de la literatura hispanoamericana en las aulas de Educación Secundaria Obligatoria y Bachillerato en España. En primer lugar, se revisan las referencias principales en torno a la creación de un canon posnacional o hispánico para establecer conclusiones acerca de la selección de los autores en relación con su nacionalidad. Para indagar en el papel de la literatura hispanoamericana en el sistema educativo español, se abordan las nociones de canon escolar y canon literario en relación al tema tratado y se ha llevado a cabo una revisión de la legislación que establece el currículo con la finalidad de valorar la inclusión de la literatura hispanoamericana en el canon escolar. La investigación se ha desarrollado a partir de una selección de once entrevistas semiestructuradas realizadas a docentes, analizadas con el sofware QDA Miner siguiendo los principios de la teoría fundamentada y ha sido completada con datos obtenidos de 228 cuestionarios cuantitativos cumplimentados por profesorado de Educación Secundaria y Bachillerato de todo el territorio nacional. El objetivo de esta investigación es profundizar en la realidad de la práctica docente en relación con la presencia de la literatura hispanoamericana en las aulas. Igualmente, nuestro objetivo ha sido conocer las actitudes, opiniones y reflexiones relacionadas con la representación de dicha literatura en las aulas de Secundaria y Bachillerato. De la investigación realizada se desprende, dada la limitación de la presencia de esta literatura en nuestras aulas, la necesidad de llevar a cabo una profunda reflexión sobre el canon escolar y el corpus de lecturas para abordar la educación literaria desde una perspectiva más acorde con el conjunto del sistema cultural. Los resultados de las entrevistas muestran también hasta qué punto es preciso flexibilizar el canon de lecturas para incluir mayor diversidad y despertar así el interés de los estudiantes por un mayor número de textos.
"Memorias" de Ernesto Cardenal: ensayo de una hagiografía revolucionaria
Authors: Calderón Farfán Alí
Published: January 2025

Entre 2003 y 2005 se publicaron los tres tomos de la autobiografía del poeta Ernesto Cardenal, Vida perdida. Memorias I, Las ínsulas extrañas. Memorias II y La revolución perdida. Memorias III. Se trata de una autobiografía poco convencional que pudiera ser leída como una autogahiografía (Philippe Gasparini) en virtud de una conversión revolucionaria que está dada por una nueva interpretación de la historia a través del montaje (Pound, Benjamin, Perloff), la mediación de la teología de la liberación (Löwy, Boff, Martínez Andrade) y la construcción de momentos de gran potencial utópico o iluminación profana (Löwy, Benjamin). Cardenal escribe una autohagiografía que apela a la construcción de un nuevo modelo de santidad donde registra la vida de mártires revolucionarios. La intención de sus memorias es, apelando al funcionamiento pragmático del texto, detonar el efecto de la heterofenomenología (Arnaud Schmitt) en la que el lector se aleja del concepto «caridad» y se vincula con el de «solidaridad de clase».
"Metsa bewa": una propuesta de traducción de la poesía shipibo-konibo de Chonon Bensho
Authors: Haya de la Torre José Agustín , Favaron Peyón Pedro
Published: January 2025

Este artículo plantea una aproximación a la racionalidad-sensibilidad de la nación indígena Shipibo-Konibo, de la Amazonía peruana, a partir de la traducción de dos poemas-cantos y se analiza la aproximación metodológica que guía el proceso, explicando los motivos de la selección léxica para dar cuenta del campo racional-afectivo de la poética amerindia de la artista plástica, poeta e investigadora Chonon Bensho. Para ello, primero se discute la condición del paso de una lengua oral indígena amazónica a la escritura alfabética. Luego, se analizan el establecimiento del alfabeto y las posturas ideológicas que lo impulsan. A continuación, se da cuenta de los elementos que en una traducción/traslación del shipibo deben considerarse para que el texto meta exprese las ontologías, epistemologías e inclinaciones estéticas de esta lengua. Asimismo, se explica por qué el procedimiento adecuado consistiría en una traducción poética.