bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Policy instruments for political capacity: lessons from three infrastructure projects in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Pereira Ana Karine , Rosim Daniela , Tavares Teixeira Valéria
Published: March 2024

The ongoing debate over development strategies highlights the importance of infrastructure to boost economic and social growth, but several studies have pointed to state capacity deficits to plan and implement infrastructure projects. This paper aim to investigate the construction of policy instruments for political state capacity to implement large hydroelectric plants in the Brazilian Amazon, based on the congruence method to produce evidence of three hydroelectric plants. Data analysis reveals that despite the development and activation os policy instruments in the Brazilian democratic era, these were not enough to produce high levels of political capacity, then state bureaucracies still fail in addressing the demands of vulnerable groups. This can be explained by asymmetrical development of political capacity in the structure of public administration; the use of political capacity instruments in the advanced stages of the policy process; the contestation of the mapped demands from participatory process by state bureaucracies.
The Protein Gap: The Rise and Fall of a Charismatic Nutrient in International Public Health
Authors: LeBlanc Hannah F.
Published: March 2024

summary: From the early 1950s to the early 1970s, international nutritionists considered childhood protein malnutrition the world's most serious public health threat. By 1974, many believed that this "protein gap" had been exaggerated. Two questions remain: why protein, and why this period? Four converging developments created a network that maintained protein's "charisma": new food technology, a growing international health infrastructure, the nominal demise of eugenics, and new geopolitical priorities in a world shaped by both the Cold War and decolonization struggles. A transnational network of nutrition experts argued that protein deficiencies could explain bodily and population differences that would have, in an earlier era, been attributed to race or inheritance. Protein malnutrition could help explain "backward" economies and cultures, they claimed, and protein supplementation would help spur development. The protein gap theory thus framed difference in the language of modernization theory, but left intact older hierarchies of bodies, nations, and races.
Liberalism as Fortress and Prison
Authors: Urbinati Nadia
Published: March 2024

Abstract: This response to Bryan Garsten's essay on liberalism as refuge examines the risks that liberalism faces from within. The greatest of these risks is that liberalism loses its ability to promote moderation in human behavior. Liberalism is a culture of refuge, not of resurrection or liberation; it has a realistic and pessimistic vein that accepts human beings as they are and wants not to make them self-destructive or destructive of others. Yet if liberalism is a fortress equipped only for an external enemy (political or state power), it is bound to be weak and unprepared against its own internal threat to freedom; it may thereby become a prison. The goal of liberalism should be self-limitation.
The Spiritual Formation of Priests: Lessons from St. Thomas Aquinas
Authors: Connors Ryan
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Saint Thomas Aquinas is often considered a model for the intellectual formation of future priests. His positive influence on their spiritual formation merits further consideration. This essay examines three areas of St. Thomas's teaching that prove useful for those in priestly formation: (1) the true nature of holiness as a life animated by the theological and moral virtues and the gifts of the Holy Spirit, (2) the sanctifying capacity of philosophical and theological study, and (3) the importance of the Eucharist in the lives of seminarians and priests. In each case, St. Thomas's teaching conforms to the documents of the Church's Magisterium that guide the work of priestly formation.
Handheld contact-type OCT and color fundus system for retinal imaging
Authors: Truzzi Stefano , Manns Fabrice , Parel Jean-Marie , Ruggeri Marco
Published: March 2024

We present proof of concept for a handheld contact-type system capable
of simultaneous optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging of the
retina and wide-field digital fundus color photography. The study
focuses on demonstrating the feasibility of the proposed approach,
particularly for eventual use in pediatric patients during examination
under anesthesia in the operating room and in the neonatal intensive
care unit. Direct contact of the probe with the cornea allows the
photographer to maintain a stable position during imaging, reducing
motion artifacts in the OCT images. Additionally, it simplifies the
alignment process and increases the field of view of the optics. By
integrating OCT and fundus imaging into a single device, the proposed
compact modular design eliminates the need for separate,
space-consuming systems dedicated to each imaging modality.
Maritime free space optical communications field test and link budget statistics
Authors: Willitsford Adam , Newell Katherine T. , O’Toole Michelle , Patel Krunal
Published: March 2024

During sub-optimal weather, a free-space optical (FSO) link range degrades depending on attenuation (atmospheric extinction) and turbulence effects. The ability to predict the system level performance can be exceedingly challenging as the atmospheric variability in a maritime link can be large and difficult to model. Link budget estimation for FSO systems often takes a nominal view of atmospheric conditions; here, we use statistical atmospheric predictions specific to a geographic area of interest to enable performance trades to be evaluated through link budget analysis. We compare these models to field-collected data to show the utility of the statistical atmospheric analysis in predicting FSO link performance for specific parts of the world. We have performed shore-to-ship FSO communications field tests at 10 Gb/s with links reaching out to a horizon limit over 40 km away in times of moderate extinction to clear weather. We provide further analysis by describing the expected performance of the link using statistical probabilities via cumulative distribution functions of both extinction and turbulence. The atmospheric variability can be determined for nearly any region of interest through the implementation of numerical weather prediction data to calculate the atmospheric performance drivers. These conditions are specifically evaluated for the 2017 Trident Warrior field test off the coast of San Diego, California, USA.
Exploiting holographically encoded variance to transmit labelled images through a multimode optical fiber
Authors: Collard Liam , Kazemzadeh Mohammadrahim , Piscopo Linda , De Vittorio Massimo , Pisanello Ferruccio
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence has emerged as promising tool to decode an image transmitted through a multimode fiber (MMF) by applying deep learning techniques. By transmitting thousands of images through the MMF, deep neural networks (DNNs) are able to decipher the seemingly random output speckle patterns and unveil the intrinsic input-output relationship. High fidelity reconstruction is obtained for datasets with a large degree of homogeneity, which underutilizes the capacity of the combined MMF-DNN system. Here, we show that holographic modulation can encode an additional layer of variance on the output speckle pattern, improving the overall transmissive capabilities of the system. Operatively, we have implemented this by adding a holographic label to the original dataset and injecting the resulting phase image into the fiber facet through a Fourier transform lens. The resulting speckle pattern dataset can be clustered primarily by holographic label, and can be reconstructed without loss of fidelity. As an application, we describe how color images may be segmented into RGB components and each color component may then be labelled by distinct hologram. A ResUNet architecture was then used to decode each class of speckle patterns and reconstruct the color image without the need for temporal synchronization between sender and receiver.
Canadian COVID-19 host genetics cohort replicates known severity associations
Authors: Garg Elika , Arguello-Pascualli Paola , Vishnyakova Olga , Halevy Anat R. , Yoo Samantha , Brooks Jennifer D. , Bull Shelley B. , Gagnon France , Greenwood Celia M. T. , Hung Rayjean J. , Lawless Jerald F. , Lerner-Ellis Jordan , Dennis Jessica K. , Abraham Rohan J. S. , Garant Jean-Michel , Thiruvahindrapuram Bhooma , Jones Steven J. M. ,   CGEn HostSeq Initiative, Strug Lisa J. , Paterson Andrew D. , Sun Lei , Elliott Lloyd T.
Published: March 2024

The HostSeq initiative recruited 10,059 Canadians infected with SARS-CoV-2 between March 2020 and March 2023, obtained clinical information on their disease experience and whole genome sequenced (WGS) their DNA. We analyzed the WGS data for genetic contributors to severe COVID-19 (considering 3,499 hospitalized cases and 4,975 non-hospitalized after quality control). We investigated the evidence for replication of loci reported by the International Host Genetics Initiative (HGI); analyzed the X chromosome; conducted rare variant gene-based analysis and polygenic risk score testing. Population stratification was adjusted for using meta-analysis across ancestry groups. We replicated two loci identified by the HGI for COVID-19 severity: the LZTFL1/SLC6A20 locus on chromosome 3 and the FOXP4 locus on chromosome 6 (the latter with a variant significant at P < 5E-8). We found novel significant associations with MRAS and WDR89 in gene-based analyses, and constructed a polygenic risk score that explained 1.01% of the variance in severe COVID-19. This study provides independent evidence confirming the robustness of previously identified COVID-19 severity loci by the HGI and identifies novel genes for further investigation.
Opticool: Cutting-edge transgenic optical tools
Authors: Fenelon Kelli D. , Krause Julia , Koromila Theodora
Published: March 2024

Only a few short decades have passed since the sequencing of GFP, yet the modern repertoire of transgenically encoded optical tools implies an exponential proliferation of ever improving constructions to interrogate the subcellular environment. A myriad of tags for labeling proteins, RNA, or DNA have arisen in the last few decades, facilitating unprecedented visualization of subcellular components and processes. Development of a broad array of modern genetically encoded sensors allows real-time, in vivo detection of molecule levels, pH, forces, enzyme activity, and other subcellular and extracellular phenomena in ever expanding contexts. Optogenetic, genetically encoded optically controlled manipulation systems have gained traction in the biological research community and facilitate single-cell, real-time modulation of protein function in vivo in ever broadening, novel applications. While this field continues to explosively expand, references are needed to assist scientists seeking to use and improve these transgenic devices in new and exciting ways to interrogate development and disease. In this review, we endeavor to highlight the state and trajectory of the field of in vivo transgenic optical tools.
Egg excretion patterns of soil-transmitted helminth infections in humans following albendazole-ivermectin and albendazole treatment
Authors: Welsche Sophie , Schneeberger Pierre H. H. , Hattendorf Jan , Sayasone Somphou , Hürlimann Eveline , Keiser Jennifer
Published: March 2024

Background

Control efforts of soil-transmitted helminthiases rely primarily on large scale administration of anthelminthic drugs. The assessment of drug efficacies and understanding of drug behavior is pivotal to the evaluation of treatment successes, both in preventive chemo-therapy programs as well as in research of novel treatment options. The current WHO guidelines recommend an interval of 14–21 days between the treatment and follow-up, yet no in-depth analysis of egg excretion patterns ofTrichuris trichiuraafter treatment has been conducted to date.

Methods

Within the framework of a multi-country trial to assess the efficacy and safety of albendazole-ivermectin combination therapy vs albendazole monotherapy againstT.trichiurainfections, we conducted a study collecting daily stool samples over the period of 28 days post-treatment in 87 participants in Pak Khan, Lao PDR. Egg counts were derived by duplicate Kato-Katz on-site forT.trichiura, hookworm andAscaris lumbricoidesand stool sample aliquots were subsequently analyzed by qPCR for the detection ofT.trichiurainfections. Sensitivity and specificity was calculated for each day separately using data derived by Kato-Katz to determine the optimal timepoint at which to assess drug efficacy.

Results

Egg excretion patterns varied across treatment arms. ForT.trichiura, only the albendazole-ivermectin treatment led to a considerable reduction in mean egg counts, whereas both treatments reduced hookworm egg counts andA.lumbricoideswere cleared in all participants after day 7. ForT.trichiura, we found sensitivity to be highest at days 18 and 22 when using egg counts as outcome and days 19 and 24 when using qPCR. Specificity was high (>0.9) from day 14 onwards. For hookworm, the highest sensitivity and specificity were found at days 17 and 25, respectively.

Conclusions

Based on our study, the ideal time period to assess drug efficacy for soil-transmitted helminth infections would be between day 18 and 24. The current WHO recommendation of 14 to 21 days is likely to yield acceptable outcome measures for soil-transmitted helminth infections.

Trial registration

NCT03527732.
Promoting leisure functions through setting creative linguistic landscapes in recreational zones
Authors: Sun Kun , Tian Xiaoli , Xia Jing , Li Qing , Hou Bing
Published: March 2024

Using creativity to promote recreational services is crucial. Accordingly, creative linguistic landscapes (CLLs) are being used to improve visitors’ experiences in some recreational zones. However, relevant research is still in its early stages. Therefore, this study was conducted. It summarized the leisure function categories and function evaluation indicators of CLLs in recreational zones respectively based on image materials and related online reviews. The leisure function outcomes of all CLL types were ranked using the fuzzy PROMETHEE method; based on this ranking, a CLL configuration optimization mode was suggested. The findings reveal the following. (1) Currently, there are mainly nine leisure function types of CLL in practice, although the type structure is severely imbalanced; there are 12 primary corresponding function evaluation indicators, although each of them draws significantly different attention. (2) There are notable variations among the outcomes of different types of functions of CLL: mood adjustment is the most advantageous function of CLL for leisure services, followed by emotional guidance and cognitive building functions; (3) According to the study findings, in the configuration of CLL, which aims at leisure function optimization, the “function focusing and coordinating mode (the superior functions of CLL are focused on and its various functions are coordinated)” should be adopted. The results provide meaningful lessons for the establishment of rational and effective CLL in recreational zones.
Propagation and control of congestion risk in scale-free networks based on information entropy
Authors: Yan Huining , Li Hua , Sun Qiubai , Jiang Yuxi
Published: March 2024

To study the propagation pattern of congestion risk in the traffic network and enhance risk control capabilities, a model has been developed. This model takes into account the probabilities of five threats (the risk occurrence probability; the risk of loss; the unpredictability of risk; the uncontrollability of risk; the transferability of risk) in the traffic network to define the risk entropy and determine the risk capacity, analyze the mechanism of congestion risk propagation, and explore the impact of risk resistance, the average degree of risk capacity at intersections, and the degree of correlation on congestion risk propagation. Further, a control method model for risk propagation is proposed. Numerical simulation results demonstrate that the risk resistance parameter θ can inhibit the propagation of congestion risk during traffic congestion. The highest efficiency in controlling risk propagation is achieved when θ reaches a threshold value θ*. Furthermore, the average degree of intersection risk capacity α shows a positive correlation with θ* and a negative correlation with control efficiency. However, the degree of association ω has a negative effect on risk propagation control, decreasing the degree of association between nodes aids in risk propagation control.
Transcriptomic changes behind Sparus aurata hepatic response to different aquaculture challenges: An RNA-seq study and multiomics integration
Authors: Raposo de Magalhães Cláudia , Sandoval Kenneth , Kagan Ferenc , McCormack Grace , Schrama Denise , Carrilho Raquel , Farinha Ana Paula , Cerqueira Marco , Rodrigues Pedro M.
Published: March 2024

Gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) is an important species in Mediterranean aquaculture. Rapid intensification of its production and sub-optimal husbandry practices can cause stress, impairing overall fish performance and raising issues related to sustainability, animal welfare, and food safety. The advent of next-generation sequencing technologies has greatly revolutionized the study of fish stress biology, allowing a deeper understanding of the molecular stress responses. Here, we characterized for the first time, using RNA-seq, the different hepatic transcriptome responses of gilthead seabream to common aquaculture challenges, namely overcrowding, net handling, and hypoxia, further integrating them with the liver proteome and metabolome responses. After reference-guided transcriptome assembly, annotation, and differential gene expression analysis, 7, 343, and 654 genes were differentially expressed (adjusted p-value < 0.01, log2|fold-change| >1) in the fish from the overcrowding, net handling, and hypoxia challenged groups, respectively. Gene set enrichment analysis (FDR < 0.05) suggested a scenario of challenge-specific responses, that is, net handling induced ribosomal assembly stress, whereas hypoxia induced DNA replication stress in gilthead seabream hepatocytes, consistent with proteomics and metabolomics’ results. However, both responses converged upon the downregulation of insulin growth factor signalling and induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress. These results demonstrate the high phenotypic plasticity of this species and its differential responses to distinct challenging environments at the transcriptomic level. Furthermore, it provides significant resources for characterizing and identifying potentially novel genes that are important for gilthead seabream resilience and aquaculture production efficiency with regard to fish welfare.
Characterization of geological and lithological features in the area proximal to tritium-contaminated groundwater at the Semipalatinsk test site
Authors: Aktayev Medet , Subbotin Sergey , Aidarkhanov Assan , Aidarkhanova Almira , Timonova Lyubov , Larionova Natalya
Published: March 2024

The article presents the results of a study of groundwater contaminated with tritium in the vicinity of the ‘Atomic Lake’ - a crater filled with water as a result of a thermonuclear explosion on the territory of the former Semipalatinsk test site. This crater was created as part of an experimental thermonuclear explosion in 1965 with the aim of creating an artificial reservoir in arid areas. The study was carried out to identify the source of groundwater contamination near the crater formed from a thermonuclear test. There were two possible factors of pollution: the influence of contaminated water from the crater on the groundwater of the adjacent area, or groundwater polluting the water in the crater. It was necessary to find out the source of groundwater contamination and its connection with the water in the funnel. For this purpose, a study of the geological and lithological conditions of the territory adjacent to the funnel was carried out, which was carried out using drilling operations and hydrological measurements. Drilling work made it possible to study the depth of distribution of groundwater, hydrological work made it possible to determine the conditions of distribution of groundwater, as well as to take samples of groundwater. The assessment of the degree of groundwater contamination was carried out through water sampling and laboratory analysis. As a result, it was established that the geological and lithological conditions of the area limit the flow of contaminated groundwater to the water in the crater - the ‘Atomic Lake’. Despite the fact that the waters in the crater from a thermonuclear explosion and the groundwater of the adjacent territory are contaminated with the radionuclide tritium, they have different sources of contamination and are not interconnected. Radionuclide analysis of groundwater showed that increased concentrations of tritium with a specific activity of up to 95 000 Bq/l are found in groundwater near the river bed. Shagan and this is due to the influence of the flow of groundwater coming from other parts of the landfill.
Chemical range recognized by the ligand-binding domain in a representative amino acid-sensing taste receptor, T1r2a/T1r3, from medaka fish
Authors: Ishida Hikaru , Yasui Norihisa , Yamashita Atsuko
Published: March 2024

Taste receptor type 1 (T1r) proteins are responsible for recognizing nutrient chemicals in foods. In humans, T1r2/T1r3 and T1r1/T1r3 heterodimers serve as the sweet and umami receptors that recognize sugars or amino acids and nucleotides, respectively. T1rs are conserved among vertebrates, and T1r2a/T1r3 from medaka fish is currently the only member for which the structure of the ligand-binding domain (LBD) has been solved. T1r2a/T1r3 is an amino acid receptor that recognizes various l-amino acids in its LBD as observed with other T1rs exhibiting broad substrate specificities. Nevertheless, the range of chemicals that are recognized by T1r2a/T1r3LBD has not been extensively explored. In the present study, the binding of various chemicals to medaka T1r2a/T1r3LBD was analyzed. A binding assay for amino acid derivatives verified the specificity of this protein to l-α-amino acids and the importance of α-amino and carboxy groups for receptor recognition. The results further indicated the significance of the α-hydrogen for recognition as replacing it with a methyl group resulted in a substantially decreased affinity. The binding ability to the protein was not limited to proteinogenic amino acids, but also to non-proteinogenic amino acids, such as metabolic intermediates. Besides l-α-amino acids, no other chemicals showed significant binding to the protein. These results indicate that all of the common structural groups of α-amino acids and their geometry in the l-configuration are recognized by the protein, whereas a wide variety of α-substituents can be accommodated in the ligand binding sites of the LBDs.
A systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy of vaccination against colibacillosis in broiler production
Authors: Paudel Surya , Apostolakos Ilias , Vougat Ngom Ronald , Tilli Giuditta , de Carvalho Ferreira Helena C. , Piccirillo Alessandra
Published: March 2024

Colibacillosis, a disease caused by Escherichia coli in broiler chickens has serious implications on food safety, security, and economic sustainability. Antibiotics are required for treating the disease, while vaccination and biosecurity are used for its prevention. This systematic review and meta-analysis, conducted under the COST Action CA18217—European Network for Optimization of Veterinary Antimicrobial Treatment (ENOVAT), aimed to assess the efficacy of E. coli vaccination in broiler production and provide evidence-based recommendations. A comprehensive search of bibliographic databases, including, PubMed, CAB Abstracts, Web of Science and Agricola, yielded 2,722 articles. Following a defined protocol, 39 studies were selected for data extraction. Most of the studies were experimental infection trials, with only three field studies identified, underscoring the need for more field-based research. The selected studies reported various types of vaccines, including killed (n = 5), subunit (n = 8), outer membrane vesicles/protein-based (n = 4), live/live-attenuated (n = 16), and CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) (n = 6) vaccines. The risk of bias assessment revealed that a significant proportion of studies reporting mortality (92.3%) or feed conversion ratio (94.8%) as outcomes, had “unclear” regarding bias. The meta-analysis, focused on live-attenuated and CpG ODN vaccines, demonstrated a significant trend favoring both vaccination types in reducing mortality. However, the review also highlighted the challenges in reproducing colibacillosis in experimental setups, due to considerable variation in challenge models involving different routes of infection, predisposing factors, and challenge doses. This highlights the need for standardizing the challenge model to facilitate comparisons between studies and ensure consistent evaluation of vaccine candidates. While progress has been made in the development of E. coli vaccines for broilers, further research is needed to address concerns such as limited heterologous protection, practicability for application, evaluation of efficacy in field conditions and adoption of novel approaches.
Differing physiological performance of coexisting cool- and warmwater fish species under heatwaves in the Midwestern United States
Authors: Dai Qihong , Suski Cory D.
Published: March 2024

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intensified with climate change. Freshwater ecosystems are among the most threatened, within which, differing responses between cool- and warmwater species to heatwaves can lead to fundamental changes in communities. Physiological experiments can identify potential mechanisms underlying the impacts of such heatwaves on fish communities. In the current study, we quantified the oxygen consumption rate, aerobic scope and swimming performance of cool- and warmwater fish species following the simulation of short-term heatwaves currently occurring in streams in the Midwestern United States. The coolwater predator walleye (Sander vitreus) showed clear thermal disadvantages relative to the warmwater predator largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), based on a high metabolic cost during the heatwave, low metabolic activity when encountering prey, and reduced swimming performance following the heatwave. Largemouth bass also showed a thermal advantage relative to the warmwater prey fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) related to swimming performance and energetic costs, highlighting differing thermal responses between predators and prey. This study demonstrates the importance of considering short-term extreme thermal events in the response of aquatic communities to climate stressors.
Scripted resonance or lost in translation? Storytelling and Chinese reception of Everything Everywhere All at Once
Authors: Wang Aiqing , Whyke Thomas William , Lopez-Mugica Joaquin
Published: March 2024

This study delves into the intricate art of screenwriting by critically examining the reception of the 2023 award-winning film, Everything Everywhere All at Once, among Chinese audiences. Notwithstanding its international laurels, Everything has sparked a divided sentiment in Mainland China. While its audacious blend of genres and the poignant depiction of Chinese–American experiences have been recognized, Everything was absent from Chinese theatres, owing to its explicit content. However, its digital footprint on Chinese streaming platforms has painted a picture of ambivalence. Many Chinese viewers expressed reservations about the screenwriters’ frequent use of pop culture references, perceived narrative clichés and the incorporation of elements that seem discordant with conventional Chinese storytelling. Yet, interspersed among these critiques is admiration for its visual brilliance and inclusivity. Grounded in resonance theory, this study scrutinizes Everything, particularly the screenplay’s reliance on the oft-touted ‘universal’ blueprint of the Hero’s Journey. Aligning with critiques suggesting such frameworks might be culturally myopic, this study connects these screenwriting choices to the lukewarm reception among Chinese audiences. Through this lens, the study offers invaluable insights for screenwriters keen on crafting narratives that resonate deeply with Chinese viewers. Moreover, it adds to the larger conversation about the need for diversifying screenwriting templates on the global stage, challenging the dominance of western-centric paradigms such as the Hero’s Journey. At its core, this study deciphers the intricate tapestry of screenwriting elements that strike a chord within the Chinese sociocultural milieu.
Prototyping approach to test and evaluate a 3D brain model for psychology teachers and students
Authors: Vásquez-Carbonell Mauricio , Patiño-Saucedo Janns Alvaro , Paez-Logreira Heyder
Published: March 2024

The virtual reality progress is undeniable. It has dabbled in multiple fields, from general education, all the way to the complicated nuclear technology education. This can be attributed to the flexibility of this tool. To integrate this technology into the Universidad de la Costa, a two-part project was initiated. This work represents the first part, where the authors analysed the use of prototype development to migrate a brain model to a virtual environment. Additionally, an initial evaluation was also applied to estimate the benefits and advantages of the model in this early development stage. It was found that this methodology provides an excellent form of communication between the developer and the user. Also, prototyping helps to correct errors at an early stage of the project. Although some problems were found due to the use of this methodology, the authors present some solutions that might avoid them. The result was an application that exceeded expectations, and even though it is incomplete, end users consider that it can be implemented as a teaching aid.
Eficácia do etidronato na remoção da smear layer dos canais radiculares: um estudo com microscopia eletrônica de varredura
Authors: Oliveira Ingrid Amanajás de , Silveira Ana Daniela Silva da , Nogueira Brenna Magdalena Lima , Mesquita Carla Ruffeil Moreira , Rothbarth Cláudia Pires
Published: March 2024

Objetivo: Avaliar, por microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV), o efeito do uso individual e combinado do etidronato 18% (HEBP) na remoção da smear layer do canal radicular. Métodos: Trinta dentes humanos unirradiculares foram utilizados. As raízes foram preparadas com instrumentos rotatórios do Sistema ProTaper Universal e divididas aleatoriamente em três grupos, de acordo com o protocolo de irrigação empregado: G1 = hipoclorito de sódio 2,5% (NaOCl) e ácido etilenodiaminotetracético 17% (EDTA); G2 = NaOCl 2,5% e HEBP 18%; e G3 = NaOCl 2,5% + HEBP 18%, misturados em partes iguais. As raízes foram seccionadas longitudinalmente e metalizadas, para análise em MEV. As fotomicrografias obtidas dos terços cervical, médio e apical foram avaliadas por três examinadores calibrados, que atribuíram escores de 1 a 5 às imagens. Os grupos experimentais foram comparados usando o teste de Kruskal-Wallis e o teste de Student-Newman-Keuls. Os terços radiculares foram comparados pelo teste de Friedman. O nível de significância foi estabelecido em 5%. Resultados: A capacidade de remoção da smear layer com NaOCl 2,5% e 18% HEBP (G2) foi semelhante à obtida com NaOCl 2,5% e EDTA 17% (G1) no terço médio e cervical da raiz; o nível de limpeza do terço apical foi semelhante, independentemente do protocolo de irrigação utilizado. Conclusão: HEBP é uma solução promissora para uso em tratamentos endodônticos.
Estudo in vitro comparando ácido fítico, ácido maleico e EDTA com e sem ativação, para remoção de smear layer no terço apical do canal radicular
Authors: Kumar Naresh , Halkai Kiran R. , Lakkam Surender Ram , Marukala Narender Reddy , Halkai Rahul S. , Chukka Rakesh Reddy
Published: March 2024

Introdução: A desinfecção do terço apical do canal radicular é difícil devido às ramificações anatômicas e à presença da smear layer, cuja remoção tem sido recomendada usando o ácido fítico. Objetivo: Comparar a eficácia de diferentes agentes quelantes, com e sem o uso do EndoActivator®, para remover a smear layer no terço apical. Material e Métodos: Oitenta pré-molares inferiores humanos unirradiculares foram decoronados e padronizados com comprimento radicular de 14 mm, instrumentados com limas rotatórias universais ProTaper até F4 e divididos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos (n = 20): solução salina (Grupo 1), ácido etilenodiaminotetracético (EDTA) (Grupo 2), ácido maleico a 7% (Grupo 3) e ácido fítico a 1% (Grupo 4). Cada grupo foi dividido em dois subgrupos, A e B (n = 10), com e sem EndoActivator®, e irrigados adequadamente por 1 min. Os dentes foram divididos em duas metades e observados em microscópio eletrônico de varredura (MEV), e as imagens foram avaliadas quanto à presença de smear layer no terço apical, usando uma classificação por escores. Análise estatística: Os dados foram analisados pelos testes de Kruskal-Wallis e U de Mann-Whitney. Resultados: A ativação dos agentes quelantes usando EndoActivator® foi eficaz na remoção da smear layer em todos os grupos, exceto no grupo controle (Grupo 1), sem diferença significativa entre o ácido maleico e o ácido fítico. Diferença estatisticamente significativa foi observada na comparação intergrupos sem EndoActivator®; o ácido maleico e o ácido fítico apresentaram melhor remoção da smear layer. Conclusão: O ácido fítico a 1% com EndoActivator® tem efeito promissor na remoção da smear layer no terço apical da raiz.
Eficiência e benchmarking interno
Authors: Silva Matheus Furlan da , Piran Fábio Sartori , Silva Leandra da , Bender Bárbara
Published: March 2024

O aumento da eficiência produtiva pode ajudar as empresas a melhorar a sua capacidade competitiva. Desta forma é importante o uso de técnicas robustas para uma medição e avaliação ampla da eficiência com o objetivo de dar suporte à tomada de decisão. Assim, este estudo tem como objetivo analisar a eficiência produtiva de uma empresa montadora de tratores. A análise foi feita longitudinalmente utilizando a Análise Envoltória de Dados (DEA). Os resultados obtidos mostram os escores de eficiência de cada mês analisado, baseado em benchmarking interno, e uma classificação das áreas da unidade produtiva analisada que mais necessitam de implementações de melhorias de desempenho. O benchmarking interno pode auxiliar na identificação das melhores práticas operacionais e essas práticas podem contribuir na identificação das melhores práticas para elevar a eficiência das operações ineficientes.
La protección diplomática: el caso español
Authors: Díaz Galán Elena
Published: March 2024

La protección diplomática es una de las instituciones más tradicionales del Derecho internacional. El examen de sus perfiles jurídicos plantea siempre dificultades, tanto se refiera a la protección de personas naturales como de personas jurídicas. El enfoque de esta institución se debe hacer desde dos perspectivas: Por una parte, todo lo relativo al derecho internacional en relación con la protección de personas que se encuentran en el extranjero. Por otra parte, la regulación que proporcionan los ordenamientos jurídicos internos respecto a la protección de los nacionales de un Estado en el exterior. La combinación de ambos ordenamientos jurídicos conduciría a encontrar soluciones a los supuestos particulares en los que un Estado ejerce la protección de sus nacionales en el extranjero y, en particular, la protección diplomática. El presente trabajo lleva a cabo un análisis pormenorizado de algunos de los aspectos de la protección diplomática y su conexión con la práctica española al hilo de un asunto concreto y de gran relevancia sobre el que se han pronunciado los altos órganos judiciales de España. La clave debe estar en acoger una definición lo más precisa posible de protección diplomática, diferenciándola de otras figuras sobre la protección de los nacionales en el extranjero; aclarar el contenido de los requisitos para el ejercicio de la protección diplomática; y determinar los contornos de la discrecionalidad del Estado en el ejercicio de esta protección. El estudio de la práctica española puede ser útil en su proyección hacia el conjunto de la práctica iberoamericana y, sobre todo, puede marcar nuevas líneas de la vinculación entre protección diplomática y derechos humanos. Este trabajo se ha realizado en el marco del Grupo de investigación de Alto Rendimiento en Libertad, Seguridad y Ciudadanía en el Orden Internacional (INTERCIVITAS) de la Universidad Rey Juan Carlos.
Pengaruh Penambahan Limbah Serbuk Kaca dan Kapur Padam pada Pembuatan Genteng Beton Ramah Lingkungan
Authors: Arkhanditya Dzikriya Ahmad , Sigalingging Rivaldi , Hartono H , Setiabudi Bambang
Published: March 2024

In Indonesia, concrete roof tiles are still relatively expensive. This can be seen from the composition of the mixture and the concrete tile production process. Based on cost considerations, the alternative is to use glass powder waste and quenched lime. Lime as an alternative choice because the chemical elements contained are almost the same as cement. Glass powder waste contains silica which is expected to increase the density of concrete roof tiles. Therefore, this research was conducted with the aim to see the effect of adding glass powder waste and slaked lime to the values of flexural load, absorption, and water seepage. The method used is the experimental method, with a mixture of cement and sand composition, namely 1: 3 and using 4 variations of the test object, namely for quenched lime with variation A 0%; B 10%; C 0%; D is 10% by weight of cement while for variations of glass powder A is 0%; B 0%; C 10%; D 10% by weight of sand. This test includes appearance, size, value of bending load, absorption, and water seepage. The result of average bending load in variations A = 1548,51 N, B = 1562,25 N, C = 1675,57 N, D = 1751,43 N. For the result of average water absorption in variations A = 9,248%, B = 6,675%, C = 9,512%, D = 7,093%. The use of glass powder waste and extinguished lime can increase the value of bending load, absorption and water seepage compared to ordinary concrete roof tiles. So as to produce concrete roof tiles that are economical and also reduce waste but still meet the quality according to SNI.
Preferencie detí predškolského veku pri výbere knihy
Authors: Petrová Zuzana
Published: March 2024

Štúdia sa zameriava na problematiku preferencií detí v predškolskom veku pri voľbe knihy. Význam tejto problematiky spočíva vo vytváraní vzťahu detí k čítaniu a v rozvoji jazykových schopností a gramotnosti, ktoré prístup ku knihám a ich textom deťom umožňuje. V tejto štúdii sa venujeme analýze empirických zistení, ktoré vypovedajú o odlišných kritériách pri výbere kníh pre deti dospelými a samotnými deťmi. V nadväznosti na to prezentujeme výsledky rozhovorov s 31 deťmi v predškolskom veku (priemerný vek 5 rokov a 6 mesiacov), ktoré sa tematicky týkali identifi kácie obľúbenej knihy dieťaťa, kritérií, podľa ktorých si dieťa volí knihy na čítanie a zvyklostí čítania kníh v rodinnom prostredí dieťaťa. Prostredníctvom induktívnej tematickej analýzy rozhovorov sme identifi kovali, že deti považujú ako dôležité pri výbere knihy jej tému (aj v nadväznosti na už pre ne známe témy a iné príbehy), jej postavy (často známe z mediálneho priestoru), prítomnosť fantazijných prvkov v príbehu, atraktivitu ilustrácií a prítomnosť interaktívnych elementov v knihe. Ako najčastejšie kritérium atraktivity knihy však deti uvádzali prítomnosť humoru v texte knihy. Toto zistenie otvára priestor pre ďalšie skúmanie, špecifi cky v oblasti chápania humoru v textoch kníh pre deti z pohľadu detí.
Cystatin C Is Associated with the Extent and Characteristics of Coronary Atherosclerosis in Patients with Preserved Renal Function
Authors: Král Aleš , Kovárník T. , Vaníčková Z. , Skalická H. , Horák J. , Bayerová K. , Chen Z. , Wahle A. , Zhang L. , Kopřiva K. , Benáková H. , Sonka M. , Linhart A.
Published: March 2024

Cystatin C (CysC), an endogenous inhibitor of cysteine proteases and a sensitive and accurate marker of renal function, is associated with the severity of coronary atherosclerosis assessed by angiography and future cardiovascular events according to previous studies. We aimed to evaluate the association between CysC levels and coronary plaque volume, composition and phenotype assessed by intravascular ultrasound and intravascular ultrasound-derived virtual histology in patients with preserved renal function. Forty-four patients with angiographically documented coronary artery disease and complete intravascular imaging were included in the study. Patients were categorized into tertiles by CysC levels. Subjects in the high CysC tertile had significantly higher mean plaque burden (48.0 % ± 6.9 vs. 42.8 % ± 7.4, P = 0.029), lower mean lumen area (8.1 mm2 ± 1.7 vs. 9.9 mm2 ± 3.1, P = 0.044) and a higher number of 5-mm vessel segments with minimum lumen area < 4 mm2 (17.9 ± 18.9 vs. 6.8 ± 11.7, P = 0.021) compared to patients in the lower tertiles. In addition, CysC levels demonstrated significant positive correlation with the mean plaque burden (r = 0.35, P = 0.021). Neither relative, nor absolute plaque components differed significantly according to CysC tertiles. The Liverpool Active Plaque Score was significantly higher in the high CysC tertile patients (0.91 ± 1.0 vs. 0.18 ± 0.92, P = 0.02). In conclusion, our study demonstrated a significant association of increased CysC levels with more advanced coronary artery disease and higher risk plaque phenotype in patients with preserved renal function.
Badania bohemistyczne inspirowane filozofią egzystencji Karla Jaspersa
Authors: Balowska Grażyna
Published: March 2024

Sytuacje graniczne w języku i literaturze czeskiej, red. Mieczysław Balowski, Poznań: IFS UAM, Wydawnictwo PRO, 2023, 349 s., ISBN 978-83-63090-61-6.
Nepravé věty vedlejší doložené v souvětí s řetězcovou závislostí vedlejších vět a jejich transformace
Authors: Štěpán Josef
Published: March 2024

Článek se zabývá transformacemi souvětí s řetězcovou závislostí vedlejších vět, která obsahují nepravé věty vedlejší, srov. Předpokládají, že večer budu doma, zatímco všichni ostatní se jdou bavit. (SYN) ® Předpokládají, že večer budu doma, ale že všichni ostatní se jdou bavit. Nepravá vedlejší věta s podřadicí spojkou zatímco se mění na souřadnou vedlejší větu. V článku se vykládá rozdílné pojetí nepravých vedlejších vět v české syntaxi (1), nepravé věty vedlejší ve formálně-sémantickém rovinném popisu souvětí (2) a dva typy složitého souvětí (3). Jádrem článku je hierarchická klasifikace dokladů souvětí s řetězcovou závislostí vedlejších vět uspořádaných z různých hledisek (především z hlediska větosledného), jež obsahují nepravou větu vedlejší, a u nichž je provedena transformace na souřadná spojení vět (4).
Integration of two dual-port substrate integrated waveguide based MIMO antennas on a common substrate for 5G millimeter wave applications
Authors: Gorai Abhik , Panda Jyoti Ranjan , Bhowmik Wriddhi , Deb Arindam , Ghatak Rowdra
Published: March 2024

This paper presents method for integrating two dual port multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antennas on a common substrate based on substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) technology. One of the dual port MIMO antennas (MIMO_1) resonates at 31.2 GHz with an impedance bandwidth of 1 GHz while the other dual port MIMO antenna (MIMO_2) exhibits an impedance bandwidth of 925 MHz and resonates at 36 GHz. The radiators etched on the SIW cavities are complementary slotted annular rings (CSAR). Isolation between the ports is more than 20 dB which is inherently achieved by SIW cavity backed structures. The MIMO antenna realized at 31.2 GHz exhibit a peak realized gain of 8.5 dBi while the MIMO antenna realized at 36 GHz displays a peak gain of 9.8 dBi. The diversity gain of both the MIMO antennas is around 9.9 dB and the envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) of the MIMO antenna realized at 31 GHz is below 0.004 while the ECC of MIMO antenna at 36 GHz is below 0.006. It is also confirmed that simulated results closely correlate with the measurement results.
Three-dimensional finite-memory quasi-Newton inversion of the magnetotelluric based on unstructured grids
Authors: Song Huadong , Xue Yunfeng , Yan Chaoxu
Published: March 2024

Simulation optimization of complex geological bodies is a necessary means to improve inversion accuracy and computational efficiency; thus, inversion of magnetotelluric (MT) based on unstructured grids has become a research hotspot in recent years. This article realizes the three-dimensional (3D) finite element forward modeling of MT based on the magnetic vector potential-electric scalar potential method, using unstructured grids as the forward modeling grid, which improves computational efficiency. The inversion uses the limited-memory Broyden–Fletcher–Goldfarb–Shanno (LBFGS) method, and in the process of calculating the objective function gradient, the quasi-forward method is used to avoid solving the Jacobian matrix, which has the advantages of requiring small storage space and fast computational efficiency. Finally, the 3D LBFGS inversion algorithm of MT based on unstructured grids was realized, and the inversion studies of classic and complex models verified the effectiveness and the reliability of the algorithm proposed in this article.
Transmission line tower inclination measurement method based on three-dimensional laser scanning and inter frame difference
Authors: Yin Xiang , Guan Li , Wu Chaoqun , Zhang Ying , Tao Yuxin
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study is to propose a method based on three-dimensional laser scanning and frame difference technology to measure the inclination of transmission line towers, so as to realize accurate monitoring of transmission line structure. Firstly, the multi-scale Retinex algorithm is used to enhance and preprocess the transmission line tower image to improve the image quality. Secondly, the method of frame difference and background difference is combined to detect and identify the inclined tower. Finally, the point cloud data of inclined tower is obtained by using three-dimensional laser scanning technology, and the inclination of transmission line tower is calculated by coordinates. The experimental results show that this method has high accuracy and reliability, with an error of less than 0.15 × 10−5 and an inclination of less than 0.17°. It is proved that this method can improve the monitoring efficiency of transmission lines, has good effects in engineering practice, and can provide effective means for the safe operation of transmission line structures.