bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accelerometer-derived movement features as predictive biomarkers for muscle atrophy in neurocritical care: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Schmidbauer Moritz L. , Putz Timon , Gehri Leon , Ratkovic Luka , Maskos Andreas , Zibold Julia , Bauchmüller Johanna , Imhof Sophie , Weig Thomas , Wuehr Max , Dimitriadis Konstantinos
Published: August 2024

Background

Physical inactivity and subsequent muscle atrophy are highly prevalent in neurocritical care and are recognized as key mechanisms underlying intensive care unit acquired weakness (ICUAW). The lack of quantifiable biomarkers for inactivity complicates the assessment of its relative importance compared to other conditions under the syndromic diagnosis of ICUAW. We hypothesize that active movement, as opposed to passive movement without active patient participation, can serve as a valid proxy for activity and may help predict muscle atrophy. To test this hypothesis, we utilized non-invasive, body-fixed accelerometers to compute measures of active movement and subsequently developed a machine learning model to predict muscle atrophy.

Methods

This study was conducted as a single-center, prospective, observational cohort study as part of the MINCE registry (metabolism and nutrition in neurointensive care, DRKS-ID: DRKS00031472). Atrophy of rectus femoris muscle (RFM) relative to baseline (day 0) was evaluated at days 3, 7 and 10 after intensive care unit (ICU) admission and served as the dependent variable in a generalized linear mixed model with Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regularization and nested-cross validation.

Results

Out of 407 patients screened, 53 patients (age: 59.2 years (SD 15.9), 31 (58.5%) male) with a total of 91 available accelerometer datasets were enrolled. RFM thickness changed − 19.5% (SD 12.0) by day 10. Out of 12 demographic, clinical, nutritional and accelerometer-derived variables, baseline RFM muscle mass (beta − 5.1, 95% CI − 7.9 to − 3.8) and proportion of active movement (% activity) (beta 1.6, 95% CI 0.1 to 4.9) were selected as significant predictors of muscle atrophy. Including movement features into the prediction model substantially improved performance on an unseen test data set (including movement features: R2 = 79%; excluding movement features: R2 = 55%).

Conclusion

Active movement, as measured with thigh-fixed accelerometers, is a key risk factor for muscle atrophy in neurocritical care patients. Quantifiable biomarkers reflecting the level of activity can support more precise phenotyping of ICUAW and may direct tailored interventions to support activity in the ICU. Studies addressing the external validity of these findings beyond the neurointensive care unit are warranted.

Trial registration

DRKS00031472, retrospectively registered on 13.03.2023.
Public perspective on potential treatment intervention harm in clinical trials—terminology and communication
Authors: Phillips Rachel , Bi Dongquan , Goulão Beatriz , Miller Marie , El-Askary Malak , Fagbemi Oluyemi , Freeborn Curie , Giammetta Maria , El Masri Noura , Flockhart Peter , Kumar Manos , Melvin Mike , Murray Dianne , Myhill Anthony , Saeid Laila , Thomas Shanice , MacLennan Graeme , Cornelius Victoria
Published: August 2024

Background

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are typically designed to determine beneficial intervention effects. In addition, an important aspect of every trial is to collect data on any potential harmful effects, with the aim of ensuring that the benefit-risk balance is appropriate. The language used by trialists to describe these potential harmful effects is inconsistent. In pharmacological trials, researchers collect adverse events; when a causal relationship is suspected adverse events are further classified as adverse reactions. Academic researchers have moved to collectively refer to these as harm outcomes; the pharmaceutical industry refer to these events as safety outcomes. In trials of complex interventions, phrases such as unintended consequences or effects are used. With the inconsistent use of terminology by researchers and the potential benefits to be gained from harmonising communications, we sought public opinion on terminology used to describe harmful effects and how these outcomes are communicated in the scientific literature, as well as in public facing material on medications.

Methods

We held two in-person public involvement meetings with public partners, in London and Aberdeen in 2023. Both meetings followed a pre-specified format. We provided a background to the topic including the information researchers collect on potential harms in clinical trials and shared examples on how this information gets presented in practice. We then discussed public partners’ perspectives on terminology used and communication of intervention harm in academic journals and in public facing materials. A summary of these discussions and the main topics raised by public partners are presented.

Results

Public partners endorsed the use of different terms for different situations, preferring the use of ‘side-effect’ across all contexts and reserving the use of ‘harm’ to indicate more severe events. Generally, public partners were happy with the type of information presented in public facing materials but discussions revealed that presentation of information on public NHS websites led to misconceptions about harm.

Conclusion

This work provides a starting point on preferred terminology by patients and the public to describe potential harmful intervention effects. Whilst researchers have tried to seek agreement, public partners endorsed use of different terms for different situations. We highlight some key areas for improvement in public facing materials that are necessary to avoid miscommunication and incorrect perception of harm.
The relationship between COVID-19 and hyperglycemia: screening and monitoring hospitalized patients
Authors: Salajegheh Faranak , Salajegheh Somayyeh , Nakhaie Mohsen , Farsiu Niloofar , Khoshnazar Seyedeh Mahdieh , Sinaei Reza , Farrokhnia Mehrdad , Torabiyan Soheila
Published: August 2024

Background

Elevated blood glucose concentration, also known as hyperglycemia, has been identified as a significant factor influencing the prognosis of COVID-19, alongside the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 infection itself.

Methods

This research is a cross-sectional investigation that examined the relationship between COVID-19 and hyperglycemia in patients admitted to Afzalipour Hospital in Kerman, Iran, from July to September 2021. A standardized data sheet was used to capture demographic data (age, gender) and laboratory information (blood sugar, arterial blood oxygen saturation, and C-reactive protein (CRP)) upon admission.

Results

The present research evaluated a total of 300 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19, with an average age of 50.19 ± 15.55 years. Among these patients, the majority were male, accounting for 51.67% of the total. Hyperglycemia was seen in 21.67% of patients, but less than 20% had new-onset diabetes. Individuals exhibiting hyperglycemia were typical of advanced age (P < 0.001). Furthermore, there was a slight but statistically significant association between advanced age and elevated blood glucose concentration (R = 0.254, P < 0.001). Gender had no significant impact on the occurrence of hyperglycemia (P = 0.199). There was no significant association between CRP levels and blood glucose concentration (P = 0.524) or the incidence of hyperglycemia (P = 0.473). Although there was no significant disparity in blood oxygen saturation between individuals with or without hyperglycemia (P = 0.06), higher blood glucose concentration was correlated with lower blood oxygen saturation (R = -0.151, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Considering the correlation between blood glucose concentration, advanced age, and disease severity, it is recommended to carefully screen and monitor all COVID-19 patients for hyperglycemia and new-onset diabetes. Effective management of these complications could enhance the control of patients’ overall prognosis and subsequent complications.
Crowdfunding for innovation: a comprehensive empirical review
Authors: Hoque Md. Mukitul
Published: August 2024

Crowdfunding has emerged as a transformative alternative to traditional innovation financing. Limitations of conventional funding sources have led to increased interest in alternative financing mechanisms. Crowdfunding, leveraging online platforms, has democratized access to capital, enabling entrepreneurs to develop products and services that align with broader population needs. This paper surveys the literature, demonstrating how crowdfunding platforms have opened doors to capital for entrepreneurs who might otherwise have found it challenging to secure funding through established channels. While crowdfunding's impact on innovation is multifaceted and contingent on factors like innovation type, entrepreneur quality, and regulatory frameworks, its growth trajectory remains robust, solidifying its significance as a source of entrepreneurial finance. The study aims to (1) analyze the effectiveness of crowdfunding in bridging the funding gap for startups, (2) compare crowdfunding with other forms of entrepreneurial finance, (3) assess crowdfunding’s role in fostering innovation, (4) differentiate between crowdfunding and crowdsourcing, and (5) identify the types of innovation facilitated by crowdfunding. Effective crowdfunding implementation hinges on these factors, necessitating concerted efforts from entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to surmount associated challenges and harness its potential for innovation and economic growth. The findings highlight the necessity for a supportive regulatory framework and the importance of transparency and trust in crowdfunding practices. This study underscores the role of policymakers in creating an environment that fosters innovation through alternative financing. However, this study is limited by the availability of comprehensive data across different crowdfunding platforms and regions. Further empirical research is needed to generalize the findings across various contexts, deepen our understanding of crowdfunding's impact on innovation, and develop strategies to leverage the potential of crowdfunding for innovation.

Graphical abstract
Pheochromocytoma - diagnosis and treatment, review of literature
Authors: Skierkowski Bartosz , Baranowska Alicja , Baranowska Katarzyna , Czyżewski Filip , Filipek Kinga , Kawka Jakub , Muciek Michał , Mrugała Sebastian , Mrugała Waldemar , Zalewska Natalia
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Pheochromocytomas are rare tumors originating from the adrenal medulla, which can occur sporadically or as part of hereditary syndromes. Many patients with chromaffin tumors harbor genetic mutations, typically inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, hence genetic testing is recommended for all patients. Symptoms can result from both excessive catecholamine production and the mass effect of the tumor. Diagnosis is confirmed by elevated levels of metanephrines or normetanephrines in the plasma or urine. Radiological imaging aids in tumor localization and assessment of potential local invasion or metastasis. Preoperative preparation of all patients involves the use of α-receptor blockers and/or other medications to control arterial hypertension, arrhythmias, and fluid volume. Surgery remains the treatment of choice, with lifelong follow-up recommended.Objective:The review article aims to provide an overview of chromaffin tumor pathology, their etiology, discuss diagnostic possibilities, and indicate therapeutic options for patients.Materials and Methods:A summary of reports available in medical publications and scientific studies found in databases such as PubMed, CrossRef, Google Scholar, as well as relevant textbooks.Results:Chromaffin tumors are rare but dangerous for patients; adequate pharmacological preparation for surgery, which is usually necessary, is extremely important.Conclusions:The main role is to establish the correct diagnosis, or even suggest and conduct diagnostic tests towards a chromaffin tumor. Patient management involves controlling blood pressure, appropriate premedication, and surgical intervention. After such treatment, patients require continuous monitoring to detect any potential disease recurrence.
Advances in migraine treatment - a review
Authors: Słychan Katarzyna , Frańczuk Agata , Makłowicz Aleksandra , Szpulak Angelika , Kopczyńska Ewelina , Głoskowska Julia , Grzelka Michalina , Kuleta Katarzyna , Łęska Aleksandra Elżbieta , Kejna Paulina
Published: August 2024

Introduction
Migraine is a heavily debilitating disease  that ranks second place in Global Burden Disease. It is estimated that around 1 billion of people suffer from it. It also has a significant negative impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL)  of patients and can affect their social, occupational, academic and familial life. Thus, it is crucial that all of the patients receive an effective treatment.
 
Objectives
This article aims to review the most recent advances in treatment of migraine.
 
Methods
A Literature review of articles published in Pubmed between 2000 and 2024 using the following words  ‘migraine’, ‘treatment advances’, ‘CGRP receptor antagonists’, ‘serotonin receptor agonists’, ‘lasmiditan’, ‘zavegepant’, ‘rimegepant’.
 
 
Results
Literature search provides several concepts of advances in migraine treatment. Apart from behavioral treatment, new drugs targeting calcitonin gene related receptors (CGRP) and serotonin receptors agonists are emerging.
 
Conclusion
Migraine is a debilitating disease which significantly reduces health related quality of life in patients. New drugs targeting calcitonin gene related receptors (CGRP) and serotonin receptors agonists give a chance for more effective and tailored treatment.
Personalized Medicine: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Pandey Akash , Gupta Surya Prakash
Published: August 2024

Personalized medicine, also known as precision medicine, represents a revolutionary approach to healthcare, tailoring medical interventions to individuals based on their unique characteristics such as genetics, environment, and lifestyle. This shift from a one-size-fits-all model to a targeted approach holds great promise for enhancing patient outcomes, improving treatment effectiveness, and reducing adverse effects. Advancements in genomics, proteomics, and data analysis have facilitated the identification of biomarkers and treatment targets, leading to the development of personalized diagnostics and therapies across various medical fields. However, the widespread adoption of personalized medicine is hindered by challenges like data privacy, regulatory obstacles, and ensuring equal access to innovative technologies. This summary outlines the principles, technological progress, clinical applications, obstacles, and future prospects of personalized medicine, underscoring its potential to transform healthcare delivery and introduce a new era of precision medicine. Personalized medicine represents a healthcare model incorporating periodic, individualized, participatory, and predictive measures. It aims to improve treatment outcomes by pinpointing the genetic factors underlying an individual's illness. Personalized medicine holds promise for decreasing both financial and time costs while enhancing patients' quality of life and potentially extending their life spans. It represents an approach to improve treatment outcomes by identifying the genomic makeup responsible for causing diseases in individuals. Personalized medicine encompasses a wide range of applications and can be utilized for diagnosing various illnesses.
CMC (Critical Micelle Concentration) Study of Some Detergents with or Without Electrolyte and Calculation of Thermodynamic Parameters Using Conductivity Method at Different Temperatures
Authors: Hazra Ashoke
Published: August 2024

Present study determines the Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) of some market available detergents at different temperatures in aqueous solutions. For this study we use Sunlight Surf and Safed Surf. Sodium Acetate electrolyte was used. Conductance data was taken at different temperatures (150C, 250C, 350C). From this study it was observed that with increase in temperature, cmc value decreases. Addition of electrolyte with surfactants (detergent), decrease cmc value which support our basic concept of surface chemistry. Different thermodynamic parameters like, ΔG, ΔH, ΔS were calculated and also supporting the formation of cmc.
The Elegance of Epoxidation: Mechanistic Insights, Diverse Applications, and Promising Horizons
Authors: Panchal Neil B. , Vaghela Vipul M.
Published: August 2024

This comprehensive article on epoxidation reactions provides a thorough understanding of the various types of reactions, reagents used, applications, advantages, and disadvantages associated with this important class of reactions. It also highlights recent advances in greener and more sustainable methods and their potential for future applications in various fields of chemistry.
By reading this article, researchers and students alike can gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and applications of epoxidation reactions and their importance in organic synthesis, polymer chemistry, and medicinal chemistry. The article also highlights the potential for future developments in this area, making it a valuable resource for those interested in exploring new synthetic strategies.
In addition, the article provides insights into the advantages and disadvantages of epoxidation reactions, helping researchers and students to carefully consider their selection of synthetic strategies for specific applications. The information on green chemistry and catalysis provides an exciting opportunity for the development of novel and more sustainable methods, promoting the continued use of epoxidation reactions in various fields of chemistry.
Overall, this article serves as an essential resource for those interested in epoxidation reactions and their applications, providing a detailed understanding of the mechanisms involved and the potential for future developments in this area. The information provided in this article can be applied to various research projects and industrial processes, making it a valuable resource for both academia and industry.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Azure-A Using Visible Light-Responsive Metal Bismuth Iodides: A Comparative Study
Authors: Sharma Suraj , Chaplot Jayanti L , Kumawat Adhidesh S. , Intodia Kumud
Published: August 2024

The total annual contribution of textile, material, and other industrial effluents is large in numbers and discharges into water bodies that are not biodegradable. Hence, there is a need for the disposal of dyestuff water effluents with financially savvy innovation. In this regard, photo-catalytic degradation of Azure-A is considered a highly significant and acceptable procedure for organic dye decomposition. In the past few years, metal iodide has also received much attention due to its great decomposition efficiency as a photocatalyst to decompose different organic dyes. The present work investigates the comparative photocatalytic competence of synthesized metal bismuth iodides (MBI). The various operational parameters, such as the effect of the Azure-A concentration, the amount of photocatalyst, the pH of the experimental solution, and the intensity of light, were studied. The maximum degradation values for cobalt bismuth iodide were obtained. Photocatalysts were static and maintained significant degradation efficiency, ensuring their reusability.
Assessment of Arsenic and Physicochemical Properties of Soil Around Municipal Waste Dumpsite at Rohtak, Haryana, India
Authors: Rao Alka , Kumari Shikha , Laura Jitender Singh , Dhania Geeta
Published: August 2024

In most of developing countries, open dumpsites are frequently opted as the best choice to get rid of waste, but this type of practice has severe threats to the environment. This may be considered as one of the factors in contamination of soil and groundwater. The study examined the arsenic and physicochemical properties of soil around a municipal waste dumpsite in Rohtak city, Haryana. For Rohtak city, leachate secretion and generation of various gases at landfill site may be a factor in contamination of soil around the dumpsite. 13 samples of soil were collected from the surrounding area of dumpsite within 2 km area. Soil samples were tested for various parameters like pH, EC, moisture content, bulk density, water holding capacity, organic matter, chloride and arsenic. The pH values of the various samples of different locations ranged from 7.14 to 8.34, EC ranged from 1034-9536 with a mean value of μS/cm, organic matter of the soil samples of present study ranged from 1.26 to 3.16 %. Water holding capacity of soil samples ranged from 51.02 % to 59.14 %, moisture content was found from 3.12 to 13.86 % bulk density was found from 1.28- 1.89 g/cm3. Range of chloride content was 358-4165 mg/kg with mean value 1679 mg/kg. Higher level of arsenic contamination is found in the surrounding soil samples, ranged from 410 ppb to 840 ppb with mean value of 618 ppb which may be due to leachate secretion at dumpsite area that make soil unsuitable for agricultural purposes.
Comparison Between Dimethoxy Chalcone and its Dinitro Pyrazoline by their Computational Prediction
Authors: R Subha. , N Ingarsal.
Published: August 2024

Deriving a molecule (1) and its derivative (2) is the focus of the present study, and the different entities are to be compared and contrasted. Employing microwave as an assisting unit, the synthesis of (E)-3-(2,5-dimethoxy)-1-(4-methylthiophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (1) was conducted using the relevant ketones and aldehydes. Starting from analogue (1), cyclization reaction by implementing the reflux method being used to yield pyrazoline derivative (2). These compounds underwent a preliminary characterization through IR spectroscopy. Together, the Auxiliary scans were performed spending the 6-311++G(d ,p)/B3LYP method. Geometry of fully optimized structure with their binding informations, orbitals nature in molecules, electrostatic locations, values of dipole moments and atomic charges designed Mulliken’s were anticipated. From these values, the reactive sites, molecules ability to accept or release a electron tendency, global descriptive parameters are noted. In addition to these studies, the pharmokinetical behaviours are predicted by pkCSM and SwissADME tools. Further, the anti-inflammatory behaviour of molecules 1 and 2 are projected by molecular docking method with COX-II enzyme (pdb id : 3LN1). The docking interactions are better for both molecules and significantly important when compared with standard.
Synthesis and In-Vitro/Silico Evaluation of Fluorinated Chalcones
Authors: Vane Vilas , Mokal Ramesh , Yashwante Usha , Meshram Rohan , Jadhavar Suresh
Published: August 2024

The methodologies detail the steps for synthesizing a series of chalcones using a protic solvent and 4-fluoro-3-methylacetophenone (FMAA) along with substituted benzaldehydes. In the current investigation, we synthesized chalcone and tested in-silico and in-vitro evaluation. Tested in-vitro studies of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria for antimicrobial and antifungal activity using the disc-diffusion method. In-silicon study of all synthesized derivatives results demonstrated a good binding affinity with the target microorganism proteins, with some compounds displaying the best binding affinity, according to in-vitro research. When compound 1C interacted with the protein Glutaredoxin, it had a -5.43 Kcal/mol affinity. The best binding energies with the proteins UDP-3-O-[3-hydroxymyristoyl] N-acetyl glucosamine deacetylase, DNA gyrase, and dihydrofolate reductase were demonstrated by compound 1D, which has -6.3 Kcal/mol, -5.62 Kcal/mol, and -6.55 Kcal/mol, respectively.
27 years apart… ‘New’ Labour government’s first 100 days
Authors: Holloway Victoria
Published: August 2024

Our Political Editor reviews the first 100 days of the new Labour government.
The two faces of medical tourism: a journey to Turkey
Authors: Sahibzada I
Published: August 2024

We hear about two patients' experiences of undergoing cosmetic procedures in Turkey.
Council letter book, 1839–1866
Authors: Rea Victoria
Published: August 2024

A look at the importance of a College record book.
The ethics of adult medical tourism
Authors: Misselbrook D
Published: August 2024

Is the NHS responsible for providing care for botched medical procedures carried out abroad?
The British Society for Surgery of the Hand LION project: Help Heal the Hands of Malawi
Authors: Gohil K
Published: August 2024

The BSSH is aiding the delivery of elective and trauma hand surgeries in Malawi.
Face and content validity of a novel post-thyroidectomy haematoma simulation model
Authors: Amos D , Tolley N , Beegun I
Published: August 2024

Can a new simulation model help increase confidence in trainees and reduce postoperative complications?
Dimerization enhances cytotoxicity and tumor/non-tumor cell selectivity of juglone
Authors: Mittag Gregor C. , Wiengarn Isabell , Heise Niels V. , Hoenke Sophie , Deigner Hans-Peter , Csuk René
Published: August 2024

The study investigates the biological activity of spaced juglone dimers derived from the reaction of juglone with dicarboxylic acid dichlorides of varying chain lengths. It builds upon the observation that dimeric structures can exhibit enhanced biological activity compared to their monomeric counterparts. The cytotoxic effects of the synthesized compounds were assessed against a range of human cancer cell lines and non-malignant fibroblasts. Results indicate that the cytotoxicity varied depending on the length of the spacer, with specific dimers showing significantly improved activity. Furthermore, these compounds demonstrated a higher selectivity towards cancer cell lines than non-malignant fibroblasts, suggesting potential for targeted anticancer therapy. 
Aluminum and Mild Steel Inhibition Investigation Using Trithiocyanuric Acid: Insights from Density Functional Theory (DFT)
Authors: Iorhuna Fater , Ayuba Abdullahi Muhammad , Nyijime Thomas Aondofa , Muhammad Saifullahi Lawal
Published: August 2024

The study investigates the corrosion inhibition properties of Trithiocyanuric Acid (TTCA) on Aluminum and mild steel using Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations. The electronic properties of TTCA, including the highest occupied molecular orbital (EHOMO) of -7.617 eV and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (ELUMO) of -4.301 eV, yield an energy gap of 3.316 eV. The calculated absolute electronegativity was 5.959 eV, global hardness obtained was 1.658 eV, global softness was 0.603136 eV, global electrophilicity index was 1.449891 eV, and nucleophilicity was 0.689707 eV. The energy of back donation was also 0.689707 eV. The charge transfer parameters, ΔNFe and ΔNAl, are also 0.862989 eV and -0.21653 eV, respectively, indicating effective interaction with both metal surfaces. Functional groups in TTCA contribute significantly to its corrosion inhibition performance by facilitating alignment on the metal surfaces. The interaction mechanism is characterized as physisorption, with binding energy values falling within the range typical for this adsorption type. The results suggest that TTCA is a suitable corrosion inhibitor for Aluminum and mild steel, making it a promising molecule for industrial applications where metal protection is essential.
Unlearning nationalised social work in times of rising right-wing populism
Authors: Knezevic Zlatana
Published: August 2024

Recent political changes in Sweden are undermining social work as a human rights profession by accentuating it once again as nationalised and citizenship oriented. This commentary addresses the Tidö Agreement that immerses social work into a politics of surveillance of undocumented migrants. Writing from the perspective of a lecturer who works for internationalisation in a university setting, I provide critical reflections on what internationalisation of social work might mean in the contemporary context and outline some strategies as ways forward.
Foundations of experiential knowledge: recovering a forgotten resource for social work
Authors: Wilken Jean Pierre , Cabiati Elena
Published: August 2024

This article explores the conceptual and theoretical foundation of experiential knowledge. A scoping review shows that limited studies have so far been published about experiential knowledge in the context of social work. Although the value of personal experiences is commonly acknowledged, these are generally not considered ‘real knowledge’. Two main problems are identified, the first being that in dominant positivist scientific conceptions, experiential knowledge is not seen as scientifically relevant. The second is that, epistemologically, it seems problematic to turn personal experiences into collective knowledge. Regarding the first issue, it is argued that from a social-constructivist angle, experiential knowledge is valid knowledge. Not only can denying the value of knowledge based on lived experiences be considered an epistemic injustice, but it also ignores it as a valuable resource for professional education and practice. The second issue needs to be further explored considering the complex processes of experiential knowledge production, using the opportunities that narrative and participative social work research methods offer.
Ovid Novelized: Metamorphose s Rewritten as a Cautionary Plea for Change in Our Mutual Friend
Authors: Hamdi Saber
Published: August 2024

Abstract: Dickens's Our Mutual Friend is a rewriting of Ovid's Metamorphoses that sets off a dimension of cultural critique that is inherent to the poem. It does so by updating the scope of the source text's representational energies. In this respect, the novel explores a series of Ovidian mutations that partake of a criticism of signs of degeneration within the social landscape. For this, it mobilizes grotesque combinations made of variations on the intertwined figures of Narcissus and Pygmalion. While exposing the dysfunctional elements within the social landscape, the novel deploys yet more Ovidian storylines, motifs, and characters, namely around the Orphic parallel, as signs of regenerative formations promising the prospect of salutary, progressive transformations.
Zone-Flooding as a Discursive Strategy of Czech Anti-System News Portals
Authors: Fidler Masako U. , Cvrček Václav
Published: August 2024

Abstract: The anti-system media (ANTS)—known for spreading disinformation—might seem to "flood [the media] zone" with a chaotic multitude of information: truths, untruths, and half-truths alike. The main goal of this study is to find evidence of systematicity in this seeming chaos: persistent and recurring narrative lines that run through the media class irrespective of the news topic. Two empirical methods (Keyword Analysis and Market Basket Analysis) are applied to large data from Czech online media (all articles, regardless of topic, from 40 ANTS web portals over three months in 2020). ANTS' narratives are advanced by creating specific associations. The current approach is based on the idea that texts can be characterized with the help of conceptual associations, pursuing concepts which co-occur within the same text regardless of sentence or paragraph boundaries. This approach thus differs from the frequently-used strategy in discourse analysis of examining phenomena such as collocations, use of passive voice, or nominalization. The distinct properties of ANTS can be highlighted by contrasting it to the mainstream media class and to reader expectations in journalistic practice. The results, culled from servers including those not explicitly sponsored by the Kremlin, indicate that a schematic set of narrative lines permeate ANTS: a model of the world divided into the West (USA, NATO, and the EU) and Russia, in which the West has a negative image relative to that of Russia. These narrative lines lead to an argumentation for Czechia's separation from the West (Czexit, leaving NATO) and for alignment with Russia.
A Corpus-Based Analysis of the Grammatical Status of Short Demonstratives in the Timok Dialect
Authors: Vuković Teodora
Published: August 2024

Abstract: The present study addresses the question of the status of demonstrative enclitics (short demonstratives (SDs)) in Timok in the process of their grammaticalization from a demonstrative into a definite article. It uses insights from neighboring Bulgarian and Macedonian varieties where this process of grammatical change has resulted in a fully grammaticalized definite article. Different linguistic criteria are used to situate the Timok SD on the grammaticalization scale between a demonstrative, anaphoric article and a definite article. It analyzes the type of referential marking of the three demonstratives ( ovaj, taj, onaj 'this, that, yonder'; t -, v -, n -forms, respectively), as well as their distribution in noun phrases and the type of noun they select. All findings point to their status as anaphoric articles. However, when it comes to the type of reference, although there is variation, the t -form of the SD is dominantly used for anaphoric referencing, while v -form and n -form are more commonly used deictically. Insight into idiolects reveals that some speakers show a more advanced use of SDs on the grammaticalization scale than others, by using SDs more frequently and exhibiting a more anaphoric use. They tend to select countable and concrete nouns, linking SDs to the deictic meaning of the demonstrative. Within a nominal expression, SD attaches almost exclusively to adjectival modifiers, which suggests that it does not have the status of a functional element marking definiteness.
The Anti-Marriage Plot: The Mistress as Heroine in G.W.M. Reynolds's Rosa Lambert
Authors: Conary Jennifer
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This essay uses George W.M. Reynolds's novel Rosa Lambert; or, The Memoirs of an Unfortunate Woman (1853) as a case study to illustrate various types of "anti-marriage" plots circulating in Victorian popular fiction in the 1850s—representations of romantic and sexual relationships that challenge and even subvert middle-class Victorian views of marriage as the only desirable path to domestic happiness, particularly for women. Reynolds's representation of Rosa's successful career as a courtesan and professional mistress demonstrates the parallels between marriage and prostitution while also exposing marriage as primarily an institution that served the interests of men, highlighting many of the same flaws in English marriage laws that mid-century feminists were trying to reform.
Phase Noise Characterization of Cr:ZnS Frequency Comb using Subspace Tracking
Authors: Razumov Aleksandr , Vasilyev Sergey , Mirov Mike , Riebesehl Jasper , Heebøll Holger , Da Ros Francesco , Zibar Darko
Published: August 2024

We present a comprehensive phase noise characterization of a mid-IR Cr:ZnS frequency comb. Despite their
emergence as a platform for high-resolution dual-comb
spectroscopy, detailed investigations into the phase
noise of Cr:ZnS combs have been lacking. To address
this, we use a recently proposed phase noise measurement technique that employs multi-heterodyne detection and subspace tracking. This allows for the measurement of the common mode, repetition-rate and high-
order phase noise terms, and their corresponding scaling as a function of a comb-line number, using a single
measurement set-up. We demonstrate that the comb
under test is dominated by the common mode phase
noise, while all the other phase noise terms are below
the measurement noise floor (∼ −120 dB rad2/Hz), and
are thereby not identifiable.
US media coverage of housing and the Great Recession: Do inequality and race matter?
Authors: Woodford Sharonda , Clawson Rosalee A.
Published: August 2024

Housing is an issue that affects all individuals in society. People have first-hand experiences with housing, or the lack thereof, daily. Housing is also a macro-issue that is affected by and has implications for the nation’s economy and public policy. Despite the centrality of housing for individuals and society, few scholars have examined media coverage of the issue. We examine media framing of housing in the New York Times between 2005 and 2010, a period that encompasses the 2008 Great Recession. We investigate whether the New York Times framed housing episodically by focusing on individuals or thematically by focusing on societal factors. We compare framing of housing topics related to inequality – such as homelessness, affordable housing, foreclosure and public housing – to more general housing topics – such as mortgages, homeownership and economic policy. We also examine if frames differ depending on whether the coverage mentions racial minorities. We find that the New York Times framed housing primarily as a thematic issue during this period; however, for stories focused specifically on inequality and racial minorities, there was substantially more episodic coverage. This research provides the much-needed insight into news coverage of inequality and race in the context of housing and housing policy.
Archiving sartorial narratives from India: An interview with Anwesh Sahoo
Authors: Sajikumar Akash
Published: August 2024

This article is an interview conducted by the author with Anwesh Sahoo who is a visual designer, technical and non-fungible token (NFT) artist, the first Indian recipient of the Troy Perry Medal of Pride for compassionate activism, the youngest winner of Mr Gay World India and the creator of The Effeminare. Through their conversation, the article touches upon a range of aspects of queer fashion, including cyber fashion, digital drag, representation of masculinity and femininity, and its varied significances within the cultural context of India.
Effects of high-level dietary distillers dried grains with solubles supplemented with multienzymes on growth performance, nutrient utilization, intestinal morphology, and pellet quality in broiler chickens
Authors: Jin Dingxing , Tugiyanti Elly , Rimbawanto Efka Aris , Rosidi Rosidi , Widiyastuti Titin , Susanto Agus , Ismoyowati Ismoyowati
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim: With the increasing cost of bulk raw materials and advancements in the feed enzyme industry, corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) have shown more opportunities for use in broiler diets. Supplementation with multiple enzymes could mitigate anti-nutritional factors in DDGS, enhance nutrient digestibility, and thereby increase its utilization in broiler diets, leading to reduced feed costs. This study evaluated the effects of multienzyme supplementation on growth performance, nutrient utilization, intestinal morphology, and pellet quality in broiler chickens fed diets containing conventional levels of DDGS (C-DDGS) and higher levels of DDGS (H-DDGS).

Materials and Methods: A total of 800 1-day-old Cobb 500 chicks was assigned to four dietary treatments with eight replicates of 25 birds each: C-DDGS (5% DDGS in Starter and 10% in Grower), C-DDGS + Enzyme (C-DDGS diet supplemented with multienzyme), H-DDGS (10% and 20%) + Enzyme (H-DDGS diet supplemented with multienzyme, 10% DDGS in Starter and 20% in Grower), and H-DDGS (15% and 30%) + Enzyme.

Results: The C-DDGS + enzyme diet increased (p < 0.05) body weight gain (BWG), reduced the feed conversion ratio, enhanced (p < 0.05) digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude protein, and hemicellulose (HC), and improved (p < 0.05) intestinal villus height and villus: crypt ratio of broilers. The H-DDGS (10% and 20%) + enzyme diet exhibited no difference in (p > 0.05) growth performance, nutrient digestibility (except HC), and intestinal morphological parameters, whereas the H-DDGS (15% and 30%) + enzyme diet decreased (p < 0.05) feed intake and BWG and reduced (p < 0.05) energy and DM digestibility by impact (p < 0.05) intestinal morphology compared with the C-DDGS enzyme-free diet. The H-DDGS diet had lower (p < 0.05) pellet hardness and poorer durability than the C-DDGS diet.

Conclusion: Supplementing multienzyme in the C-DDGS (5% and 10%) diet improved growth performance from day 0 to 28 and diminished growth performance in the H-DDGS (15% and 30%) diet by influencing intestinal morphology and feed pellet quality in broiler chickens. In addition, when supplemented with multienzyme, the dietary DDGS level can be safely included at levels of 10% in 0–7 days and 20% in 8–28 days of age.

Keywords: broiler chickens, distillers dried grains with solubles, growth performance, intestinal morphology, multienzyme, nutrient utilization, pellet quality.
DISCUSSÕES SOBRE AS TEORIAS DO ESTADO E POLÍTICAS EDUCACIONAIS
Authors: Lima Paulo Gomes
Published: August 2024

Muito me alegra elaborar a primeira apresentação do Dossiê com a temática em tela, fruto das reflexões e inferências de estudiosos comprometidos com a educação no Brasil, seja de forma ainda incipiente como pesquisadores, seja como profissionais que exercem os seus saberes e fazeres a partir do interior da escola. A UFSCar historicamente tem aberto espaços de promoção e difusão do conhecimento por diferentes e inovadores meios, como é o caso do presente periódico que oportuniza esse momento de socialização materializado na reunião dos textos que passaremos a apresentar. Esse comprometimento alimenta a sua missão e projeta institucionalmente a pesquisa como princípio educativo,  mobilizador de ações interdisciplinares entre docentes – discentes e comunidade.
A ESCOLA PÚBLICA EM ANTÔNIO GRAMSCI E A FORMAÇÃO DE INTELECTUAIS ORGÂNICOS
Authors: Dias Amanda Regina Martins , Martins Thiago de Melo
Published: August 2024

O presente texto tem por objetivo problematizar questões centrais da teoria gramsciana como hegemonia, estrutura e superestrutura e sua relação com a educação e a escola, refletindo sobre o conceito de hegemonia de classe e superestrutura do Estado, bem como análise da escola pública enquanto instrumento de reprodução social para manter a hegemonia vigente. Complementa o presente artigo as concepções de educação e escola, e ainda, as teorias pedagógicas contra-hegemônicas existentes no Brasil na década de 1980, influenciadas pelas ideias de Gramsci – a sua concepção de escola unitária e a necessidade de se pensar uma escola que projete uma outra tipologia de educação para uma sociedade em tensão e recorrência.
O PAPEL DA MEMÓRIA DA SOCIEDADE NA CONSTRUÇÃO DE POLÍTICAS PÚBLICAS EDUCACIONAIS
Authors: Xavier Eloisa Diehl Bigaran , Santos Jociane Marthendal Oliveira , Mathias Mercia Santana
Published: August 2024

Este estudo consiste em uma reflexão sobre o papel da memória da sociedade na construção de políticas públicas educacionais. Para o desenvolvimento do estudo foi realizado a pesquisa qualitativa, através da pesquisa bibliográfica. Discutiremos o que caracteriza política pública educacional e adentraremos na história sobre a tradição oral até as novas tecnologias a fim de considerarmos a importância da memória da sociedade e a efetuação de políticas públicas.
VIOLÊNCIA NAS ESCOLAS E POLÍTICAS PÚBLICAS: PROGRAMAS E AÇÕES DE INTERVENÇÃO SOBRE O FENÔMENO
Authors: Faustino Heitor Henrique
Published: August 2024

A violência caracteriza-se por ser construída de forma social e histórica, tornando-se com isso um fenômeno complexo e de grandes proporções. Presente em muitas instituições, a violência também está dentro das escolas. A violência escolar no Brasil começa a ser fortemente estudada a partir da década de 1980, condicionando a criação de ações interventivas. Este artigo possui como objetivo expor conceituações e recortes metodológicos feitos sobre a violência escolar e discutir sobre algumas propostas de intervenção. Pode-se compreender que as iniciativas realizadas pelos governos caracterizam-se por serem ações fragmentadas e descontinuadas fato que torna difícil a desconstrução de uma cultura de violência dentro das escolas, bem como a realização de pesquisas de avaliação do impacto dessas políticas e desses programas no cotidiano escolar, porém, cabe apontar que, estudos já realizados indicam que há um impacto positivo na diminuição dos índices de violência escolar onde tais políticas e programas foram implementados.
EXPECTATIVAS DOS PAIS EM RELAÇÃO AO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL DE NOVE ANOS
Authors: Salles Paulete Zilli Silveira de , Leite Claudineia Martins da Silva , Costa Dayane Prado Paschoal
Published: August 2024

Este artigo traz a reflexão sobre as mudanças nas políticas educacionais e suas consequências, à luz da pesquisa sobre a alteração do Ensino Fundamental de oito para nove anos e a antecipação da matrícula para crianças de seis anos. Foi realizada pesquisa bibliográfica, embasada em diversos autores que estudam o assunto e também realizada pesquisa de campo através de entrevistas com pais de alunos, para a coleta de informações e opiniões destes sobre sua expectativa a respeito do estudo de seus filhos. O artigo também discorre sobre a Lei de Diretrizes e Bases da Educação n° 9.394/1996, a Lei nº 11.274/2006, as orientações gerais do MEC sobre o Ensino Fundamental de Nove Anos e suas expectativas sobre tais mudanças para a vida escolar das crianças brasileiras. Em todo o momento da pesquisa, fica evidente que a presença e a parceria das famílias junto à escola são o motivo principal do sucesso escolar.
EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL E CURRÍCULO: UM OLHAR SOBRE A REALIDADE À LUZ DAS DIRETRIZES CURRICULARES NACIONAIS PARA A EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL
Authors: Silva Hilary Machado da , Sampaio Jin Kyong Karina , Araújo Sabrina Ribeiro da Silva de
Published: August 2024

O presente artigo pretende, a partir de uma análise crítica e reflexiva da resolução n.5/2009 das Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais para Educação Infantil, compreender o impacto desse documento na prática educativa cotidiana da Educação Infantil, assim como os conceitos e direcionamentos ali estabelecidos para nortear a ação pedagógica e a elaboração de políticas públicas educacionais. Objetiva-se ainda, revisitar a construção histórica da concepção de termos fundamentais para esse debate como o conceito de criança, currículo e educação infantil ao longo do tempo e na atualidade, de forma que possibilite ao leitor um olhar para o passado, uma reflexão sobre os limites e avanços presentes e, por fim, as possibilidades e desafios a serem enfrentados para o futuro dessa primeira etapa da Educação Básica.
DESVALORIZAÇÃO DOCENTE NO CONTEXTO BRASILEIRO: ENTRE POLÍTICAS E DILEMAS SOCIAIS
Authors: Souza Júlia Braga Rodolfo de , Brasil Marina Augusta de Jesus Silva , Nakadaki Vitória Evelin Pignatari
Published: August 2024

O presente artigo busca compreender a origem da baixa remuneração salarial docente no país, de forma a analisar as consequências múltiplas do descaso social enfrentado, seus reflexos no âmbito pessoal e profissional em meio a um cenário de políticas públicas estagnadas em sua efetividade. O olhar social e a influência deste na escolha pelo magistério, no ingresso e permanência na área educacional serão também objeto de análise. Nesse parâmetro e a partir da Meta 17 do Plano Nacional de Educação (PNE) vigente, que visa valorizar os professores por meio da equiparação de seu rendimento médio com o dos demais profissionais de mesma escolaridade, serão confrontados as necessidades e os desafios no contexto desta meta, visto que não basta estabelecer estratégias de ação, é preciso um acerto estrutural de contas em nível econômico, social e político frente às demandas do atual professor brasileiro.