bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of galacto-oligosaccharides on growth performance and gut health in broiler chicken
Authors:   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Faluan Supawooth , Intanon Montira ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand,   Research Center of Producing and Development of Products and Innovations for Animal Health and Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Suriyasathaporn Witaya ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand,   Research Center of Producing and Development of Products and Innovations for Animal Health and Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Awaiwanont Nattakarn ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand,   Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety Centre for Asia Pacific, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the effects of prebiotic galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) derived from beta-galactosidase from Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus DSM 20081, on growth performance and gut health in broilers. A total of 100-day-old ROSS-308 male broilers were randomly allocated into two groups, five replications per group. The control group (CON) received only a basal diet, while the experimental group (GOS) received a basal diet supplemented with 1% functional GOS for the first three weeks, then a basal diet until week five. Body weight, feed intake, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio were recorded. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and blood malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in intestinal contents were analyzed on weeks 1, 2, 3, and 5. Internal organ weights and intestinal morphology were determined on weeks 3 and 5. The results showed no effect of the GOS on growth performance indicators. However, the GOS group revealed FCR improvement during weeks 4-5 (P <0.05). Higher total SCFAs levels in the duodenum and ileum of the GOS group were observed in week 1. Whereas only propionic acid in the cecum on week 2 and acetic acid and total SCFAs in the ileum on week 3 were higher in the GOS group than in the CON group (P <0.05). In the ileum, shorter crypt depth and higher villi height per crypt depth ratio were demonstrated in week 3 (P <0.05). The GOS group had lower liver and bursa weights than the CON group (P <0.05). Additionally, the GOS group had lower MDA levels than the CON group on weeks 1 and 3 (P <0.05). These findings suggest that GOS supplementation could promote gut health in broilers.
Uniform asymptotics for eigenvalues of model Schrödinger operator with small translation
Authors: Borisov Denis Ivanovich , Polyakov Dmitry Mikhailovich
Published: December 2024

We consider a model Schrödinger operator with a constant coefficient on the unit segment and the Dirichlet and Neumann condition on opposite ends with a small translation in the free term. The value of the translation is small parameter, which can be both positive and negative. The main result is the spectral asymptotics for the eigenvalues and eigenfunctions with an estimate for the error term, which is uniform in the small parameter. For finitely many first eigenvalues and associated eigenfunctions we provide asymptotics in the small parameter. We prove that each eigenvalue is simple, and the system of eigenfunctions forms a basis in the space $L_2(0, 1).$
Interpolation sets in spaces of functions of finite order in half - plane
Authors: Kabanko Mikhail Vladimirovich , Malyutin Konstantin Gennadyevich
Published: December 2024

We consider free interpolation problems, the study of which was initiated by A.F. Leontiev. We obtain new criterions for the interpolation property of sets in the space of analytic in the upper half - plane functions of finite order. We provide examples of interpolation sets in the space of analytic in the upper half - plane functions of finite order. These examples are similar to interpolation sets in the space of analytic and bounded in the upper half - plane functions. In particular, we provide examples of sets satisfying the Newman condition and uniform Frostman condition.
Enhanced efficiency in terahertz SIW array antennas
Authors: Pan Wu , Ye Kuan , Li Renpu , Zhang Zhen , Huang Lei , Qiu Sen
Published: December 2024

In this paper, a terahertz slotted waveguide array antenna based on a substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) is proposed. The terahertz waves are fed from the rectangular waveguide (RWG) at the bottom of the antenna, coupled to slotted waveguide array through RWG–SIW transition. The proposed RWG–SIW transition realizes the vertical transfer from RWG to SIW and feeds the slotted waveguide array. The proposed slotted waveguide array antenna demonstrates a −10dB impedance bandwidth ranging from 236.5 to 248.8 GHz, achieving a peak gain of 13.2 dBi and a maximum radiation efficiency of 87%. The terahertz slotted waveguide array antenna can be used in terahertz communication, terahertz imaging, and other fields.
Bismuth-doped fiber amplifier with controlled gain and extended bandwidth based on tunable gain clamping
Authors: Wang Lihong , Zheng Jingjing , Pei Li , Xu Wenxuan , Hu Zhouyi , Wang Jianshuai , Li Jing , Ning Tigang
Published: December 2024

The study of gain clamping in broadband bismuth-doped fiber amplifiers (BDFA) not only helps to solve the gain instability problem due to the variation of the number of optical multiplexing channels but also is an effective way to extend the amplifier's operating bandwidth to improve the communication capacity. In this paper, we illustrate the advantages of linear cavity gain clamping through simulation. Using simulation to guide the experiments, we propose a BDFA with tunable linear-cavity gain clamping and incorporate a variable optical attenuator (VOA) in the linear cavity to enhance the flexibility of gain control. The gain-clamping is utilized to generate a control laser and act on the BDF together with the external pumping to achieve multi-wavelength pumping without excessive pumping sources. In addition, we investigate the gain and noise figure (NF) of the BDFA with respect to pump, signal, wavelength, and VOA loss. A 6 dB gain bandwidth of 115 nm is achieved when the VOA loss is 0 dB. The gain float is less than 0.2 dB over the input signal range of -26.5 dBm to 7 dBm. This work extends the operating bandwidth of the BDFA and makes the amplifier more tolerant to variations in signal power in the channel.
Comparative autofluorescence analysis of silicon nitride and tantalum pentoxide waveguides at 532 nm
Authors: Irvine David A. , Zelleke Ephrata , Schreyer Aaron T. , Houck William D. , Foster Mark A. , Foster Amy C.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we quantitatively compare the autofluorescence of stoichiometric low pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) silicon nitride and sputtered tantalum pentoxide waveguides at a pump wavelength of 532 nm. Through a direct quantitative characterization of comparable waveguides formed from the two films, we find no observable autofluorescence for tantalum pentoxide waveguides. Our experimental sensitivity is limited by Raman scattering of the pump into our detection band and our measurements indicate that the autofluorescence of the tantalum pentoxide waveguides is more than 600 × smaller than that of silicon nitride waveguides. This finding holds promise for visible technologies such as biosensors and quantum devices that require strong optical pumping and minimal background noise.
Fast data-driven spectrometer with direct measurement of time and frequency for multiple single photons
Authors: Jirsa Jakub , Kulkov Sergei , Abrahao Raphael A. , Crawford Jesse , Mueninghoff Aaron , Bernasconi Ermanno , Bruschini Claudio , Burri Samuel , Vintskevich Stephen , Marcisovsky Michal , Charbon Edoardo , Nomerotski Andrei
Published: December 2024

We present a single-photon-sensitive spectrometer based on a linear array of 512 single-photon avalanche diode detectors with 0.04 nm spectral and 40 ps temporal resolutions. We employ a fast data-driven operation that allows direct measurement of time and frequency for simultaneous single photons, time- and frequency-stamping each single-photon detection. Our results combine excellent temporal and spectral resolution. This work opens numerous applications in quantum photonics, especially when both spectral and temporal properties of single photons can be exploited.
Terahertz metamaterial-prism hybrid sensors for the detection of microorganisms
Authors: Kim Y. C. , Jun S. W. , Park S. J. , Ahn Y. H.
Published: December 2024

In this study, we developed terahertz (THz) metamaterial devices with attenuated total reflection (ATR) geometries for biosensing applications. This was achieved by transferring the metamaterial patterns fabricated on a polyimide film to a prism-top surface. We characterized the resonance characteristics of metasurfaces for different THz wave polarizations and gap structure orientations in the metamaterials. The metamaterial resonances exhibited a sharp resonance compared to the normal incidence case; the quality factor increased from 3.3 to 6.0. For biosensing applications, we measured the resonant-frequency shift of the hybrid device by depositing yeast cells. The sensitivity in terms of the yeast number density increased 3.4 times compared to that of the Si substrate under normal incidence, which presented a 4.1-fold increase in the figure of merit. The resonance characteristics based on finite-difference time-domain simulations successfully reproduced our experimental results, including the enhanced sensitivity of our hybrid devices.
Thermodynamic coupling analysis of precision molding process for chalcogenide glass microlens array under multiple loads
Authors: Zhao Yubo , Liu Yue , Xue Changxi , Ai Haotong , Huo Furong
Published: December 2024

Precision glass molding (PGM) technology, as an efficient and straightforward method for producing glass lenses, has been widely applied in the mass production of aspheric glass lenses. However, molding complex surfaces such as free-form and array surfaces is still in its infancy. To reveal the variations of temperature and stress of microlens array (MLA) optical elements during the molding process, a simulation model was established using the finite element method (FEM), and the heating and forming stages of a chalcogenide glass MLA optical element were studied. The influence of process parameters on the stress distribution of glass lenses was analyzed. Considering the long heating time and large deformation required for spherical chalcogenide glass preforms, the molding process was optimized. Different loads were applied at various stages of heating and pressurization of the preform, which reduced the stress in MLA optical elements during the molding process and decreased the molding time by over 21%.
Raman spectroscopy with a microfluidic device embedded with plasmonic metasurface
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Liu Min , Suo Hongfei , Ma Ying , Liu Lixin , Zheng Juanjuan , Lin Ke , Gao Peng
Published: December 2024

Metasurfaces offer a powerful tool to realize label-free and highly sensitive Raman spectroscopy. Embedding metasurfaces into microfluidic channels is promising to establish a new characterizing platform for microfluids. In this Letter, we present a highly stable method for improving the Raman scattering intensity of biological microfluids by using a microfluidic chip embedded with a plasmonic metasurface. The embedded metasurface consists of a nanosphere array coated with a silver layer, where the diameter of the nanosphere is ∼100 nm. The Langmuir–Blodgett method and a chemical spraying method were adopted to prepare the nanosphere-array metasurface. In the case of red blood cell measurement, a giant enhancement of Raman spectra intensity is achieved with a metasurface compared to that without a metasurface. Moreover, a two-time enhancement of Raman spectra intensity is obtained with a metasurface under radially polarized beam illumination compared to linearly polarized beam illumination. Furthermore, a microfluidic device embedded with a plasmonic metasurface was applied to monitor the environmental variation of rat red blood cells. Peaks in the range from 2143 cm−1 to 2303 cm−1 arise with the addition of glucose and are still obviously distinguishable when the additive concentration is down to 10−3 M. This indicates high sensitivity to the concentration of glucose mixed with rat red blood cells, which could be further applied to monitor biological cell environments such as glucose concentration, pH, and sodium salt concentration.
Accelerating the phase demodulation process based on a parallel Hilbert transform with overlapping computation for a laser heterodyne Doppler vibrometer
Authors: Ke Wei , Li Lijing , He Longbiao , Yang Ping , Niu Feng , Han KaiBing , Fan Ronghua , Zhang Hanyi , Feng Xiujuan
Published: December 2024

A parallel Hilbert transform arctangent phase demodulation (PHT-ATAN) method based on overlapping computation is proposed for phase demodulation of laser heterodyne Doppler vibrometers. The method suppresses the end point effects by utilizing overlapping computation and data concatenation and accelerates phase demodulation through parallel processing. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that when the algorithm’s parallelism is ≥4, the computation speed of this method increases by over 100% compared to traditional methods, while maintaining the signal-to-noise ratio and accuracy of the phase demodulation results. Therefore, this method offers potential advantages in accelerating the phase demodulation process and is highly suitable for large bandwidth, embedded, and real-time sensing applications.
Monocular depth estimation based on deep learning for intraoperative guidance using surface-enhanced Raman scattering imaging
Authors: Juhong Aniwat , Li Bo , Liu Yifan , Yao Cheng-You , Yang Chia-Wei , Atique Ullah A. K. M. , Liu Kunli , Lewandowski Ryan P. , Harkema Jack R. , Agnew Dalen W. , Leo Lei Yu , Luker Gary D. , Huang Xuefei , Piyawattanametha Wibool , Qiu Zhen
Published: December 2024

Imaging of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanoparticles (NPs) has been intensively studied for cancer detection due to its high sensitivity, unconstrained low signal-to-noise ratios, and multiplexing detection capability. Furthermore, conjugating SERS NPs with various biomarkers is straightforward, resulting in numerous successful studies on cancer detection and diagnosis. However, Raman spectroscopy only provides spectral data from an imaging area without co-registered anatomic context. This is not practical and suitable for clinical applications. Here, we propose a custom-made Raman spectrometer with computer-vision-based positional tracking and monocular depth estimation using deep learning (DL) for the visualization of 2D and 3D SERS NPs imaging, respectively. In addition, the SERS NPs used in this study (hyaluronic acid-conjugated SERS NPs) showed clear tumor targeting capabilities (target CD44 typically overexpressed in tumors) by an ex vivo experiment and immunohistochemistry. The combination of Raman spectroscopy, image processing, and SERS molecular imaging, therefore, offers a robust and feasible potential for clinical applications.
Implementing FAIR data principles in the IPCC seventh assessment cycle: Lessons learned and future prospects
Authors: Stockhause Martina , Huard David , Al Khourdajie Alaa , Gutiérrez José M. , Kawamiya Michio , Klutse Nana Ama Browne , Krey Volker , Milward David , Okem Andrew E. , Pirani Anna , Sitz Lina E. , Solman Silvina A. , Spinuso Alessandro , Xing Xiaoshi
Published: December 2024

Every five to seven years, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) convenes the climate science community to assess the latest knowledge on climate change relevant to policy-makers. This generally takes the form of Assessment Reports (AR) covering the scientific basis of climate change, its impacts and future risks, and options for adaptation and mitigation. With each cycle, these reports have grown in scope, length, number of referenced papers, and underpinning datasets. During the sixth assessment cycle, a large-scale collective effort went into archiving digital products assessed and generated through the IPCC process. The main objectives driving this initiative are making IPCC’s work more transparent, improving the reproducibility and reusability of the assessment outcomes, better utilization of the services of the IPCC Data Distribution Centre (DDC), and, more generally, compliance with best practices in open science. This paper expands on the motivations for the curation and preservation of digital objects in the IPCC. It gives an overview of how FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) and open data principles have been implemented in practice and explores some of the successes and setbacks of the AR6 experience. It concludes with recommendations for consolidation and expansion of the approach for AR7. These include a tighter integration of digital curation activities in the IPCC timeline and workflows, better support of IPCC authors and contributors through early training and use of suitable software, improved standardization and harmonization of data and software handling across Working Groups (WGs), and close collaboration with key external data providers and research organizations.
Transcription termination and antitermination are critical for the fitness and function of the integrative and conjugative element Tn916
Authors: Wirachman Erika S. , Grossman Alan D.
Published: December 2024

Premature expression of genes in mobile genetic elements can be detrimental to their bacterial hosts. Tn916, the founding member of a large family of integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs; aka conjugative transposons), confers tetracycline-resistance and is found in several Gram-positive bacterial species. We identified a transcription terminator near one end of Tn916 that functions as an insulator that prevents expression of element genes when Tn916 is integrated downstream from an active host promoter. The terminator blocked expression of Tn916 genes needed for unwinding and rolling circle replication of the element DNA, and loss of the terminator caused a fitness defect for the host cells. Further, we identified an element-encoded antiterminator (named canT for conjugation-associated antitermination) that is essential for transcription of Tn916 genes after excision of the element from the host chromosome. We found that the antiterminator is orientation-specific, functions with heterologous promoters and terminators, is processive and is most likely a cis-acting RNA. Insulating gene expression in conjugative elements that are integrated in the chromosome is likely a key feature of the interplay between mobile genetic elements and their hosts and appears to be critical for the function and evolution of the large family of Tn916-like elements.
Laws for health and care worker protection and rights: A study of 182 countries
Authors: Kavanagh Matthew M. , Radakrishnan Adi , Unnikrishnan Vishakh , Cometto Giorgio , Kane Catherine , Friedman Eric A. , Srivatsan Varsha , Abinader Luis Gil , Campbell James ,   on behalf of the Health & Care Worker Policy Lab
Published: December 2024

The unprecedented and multi-faceted challenges health and care workers faced during the COVID-19 pandemic inspired the world’s health ministers to call for a new Global Health and Care Worker Compact at the 74th World Health Assembly in 2021. The Care Compact identifies key areas where governments can use law and policy to prevent harm, provide support, ensure inclusivity, and safeguard rights of health and care workers toward improving population health. Using policy surveillance methods, we conducted an empirical analysis of the national law and policy environments on health and care workers’ protection and rights in 182 countries. Across 10 indicators, 1,262 laws and policies were identified and analyzed for their alignment with the international legal standards. Analysis shows significant gaps. 62% of all national laws are aligned. Nearly every country has multiple areas where national laws are not yet aligned with the Care Compact. Though alignment is feasible. In 5 of 6 regions at least one country has laws aligned on all indicators. Geographic region was not a significant predictor of alignment, while income level was only weakly associated. Comparing the key legal issues facing health and care workers, well over half of countries studied are fully aligned with the Care Compact on occupational health and safety, fair remuneration, enabling work environments, freedom of association, and collective bargaining. Approximately 50% of countries studied are fully aligned on protections against violence and harassment in the workplace and whistleblower protections. But less than 25% are fully aligned on access to health services in occupational settings and equal treatment and non-discrimination. Together this analysis highlights the need for, and opportunity of, law reform in countries throughout the world to elevate and protect the rights and well-being of health and care workers and, in doing so, improve health systems.
Comparative study of two Rift Valley fever virus field strains originating from Mauritania
Authors: Chabert Mehdi , Lacôte Sandra , Marianneau Philippe , Confort Marie-Pierre , Aurine Noémie , Pédarrieu Aurélie , Doumbia Baba , Ould Baba Ould Gueya Mohamed , Habiboullah Habiboullah , Beyatt Ahmed Bezeid El Mamy , Lo Modou Moustapha , Nichols Jenna , Sreenu Vattipally B. , da Silva Filipe Ana , Colle Marie-Anne , Pain Bertrand , Cêtre-Sossah Catherine , Arnaud Frédérick , Ratinier Maxime
Published: December 2024

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is one of the major viral arthropod-borne diseases in Africa. In recent decades, RVF virus (RVFV), the causative agent of RVF, has been responsible for multiple outbreaks in West Africa with important consequences on human and animal health. In particular, an outbreak occurred in 2010 after heavy rains in the desertic region of Adrar, Mauritania. It was characterized by the appearance of severe clinical signs among dromedary camels. Another one occurred in 2013–2014 across Senegal and the southern part of Mauritania. In this study, we characterized two RVFV field strains isolated during these two outbreaks. The first strain, MRU25010-30, was isolated from a camel (2010) while the second, MRU2687-3, was isolated from a goat (2013). By deep-sequencing and rapid amplification of cDNA-ends by polymerase chain reaction, we successfully sequenced the complete genome of these two RVFV strains as well as the reference laboratory strain ZH548. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the two field viruses belong to two different RVFV genetic lineages. Moreover, we showed that MRU25010-30 replicates more efficiently in various in vitro cell culture models than MRU2687-3 and ZH548. In vivo, MRU25010-30 caused rapid death of BALB/c mice and proved to be more virulent than MRU2687-3, regardless of the route of inoculation (subcutaneous or intranasal). The virulence of MRU25010-30 is associated with a high viral load in the liver and serum of infected mice, while the death of mice infected with MRU2687-3 and ZH548 correlated with a high viral load in the brain. Altogether, the data presented in this study provide new avenues to unveil the molecular viral determinants that modulate RVFV virulence and replication capacity
Human RAMP1 overexpressing mice are resistant to migraine therapies for motion sensitivity
Authors: Rahman Shafaqat M. , Guo Linda Jia , Minarovich Carissa , Moon Laura , Guo Anna , Luebke Anne E.
Published: December 2024

Both enhanced motion-induced nausea and increased static imbalance are observed symptoms in migraine and especially vestibular migraine (VM). Motion-induced nausea and static imbalance were investigated in a mouse model, nestin/hRAMP1, expressing elevated levels of human RAMP1 which enhances CGRP signaling in the nervous system, and compared to non-affected littermate controls. Behavioral surrogates such as the motion-induced thermoregulation and postural sway center of pressure (CoP) assays were used to assess motion sensitivity. Nausea readouts revealed that the nestin/hRAMP1 mouse exhibit an increased sensitivity to CGRP’s effects at lower doses compared to unaffected controls. In addition, the nestin/hRAMP1 mice exhibit a higher dynamic range in postural sway than their wildtype counterparts, along with increased sway observed in nestin/hRAMP1 male mice that was not present in male unaffected controls. Results from migraine blocker experiments were challenging to interpret, but the data suggests that olcegepant is incapable of reversing CGRP-induced or endogenous alterations in the nestin/hRAMP1 mice, while rizatriptan was ineffective in both the nestin/hRAMP1 and control mice. The results indicate that overexpression of hRAMP1 leads to heightened endogenous CGRP signaling. Results also suggest that both olcegepant and rizatriptan are ineffective in reducing nausea and sway in this hypersensitive CGRP mouse model. This study suggests that the hypersensitive nestin/hRAMP1 mouse may serve as a model for difficult to treat cases of migraine that exhibit increased motion sensitivity.
Compliance with the WHO recommended 8+ antenatal care contacts schedule among postpartum mothers in eastern Uganda: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Lee Seungwon , Adam Eminai , Kanyike Andrew Marvin , Wani Solomon , Kasibante Samuel , Mukunya David , Nantale Ritah
Published: December 2024

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 8 antenatal care (ANC) contacts during pregnancy, but many women in low and middle-income countries do not adhere to this schedule, which may contribute to high rates of maternal and neonatal mortality. This study assessed compliance to the WHO recommended 8+ ANC contacts schedule and associated factors among postpartum mothers in eastern Uganda.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional multicenter study conducted between July and August 2022 at four selected hospitals in Eastern Uganda using quantitative techniques. We recruited postnatal mothers who had given birth within 48 hours with records of their ANC contacts. Compliance to the WHO recommended 8+ ANC contacts schedule was defined as having received the recommended ANC contacts as per the gestational age at childbirth following the current ANC for a positive pregnancy experience WHO guidelines. We conducted multivariable logistic regression analysis to assess the association between compliance to the WHO recommended 8+ ANC contacts schedule and selected independent variables.

Results

A total of 1104 postpartum mothers participated in the study with a mean age (± standard deviation) of 26 ± 6.4 years, and a majority had given birth from a referral hospital (n = 624 56.5%). Compliance to the WHO recommended 8+ ANC contacts schedule was low (n = 258, 23.4%), and only 23.2% (196) of the women had attended their first antenatal care contact within the first trimester. Factors associated with compliance to the WHO recommended 8+ ANC contacts were: attending the first antenatal care contact within 12 weeks of gestation [AOR: 6.42; 95% CI: (4.43 to 9.33)], having 2 to 4 children [AOR: 0.65; 95% CI: (0.44 to 0.94)], having a spouse who is unemployed [AOR: 1.71; 95% CI: (0.53 to1.08)] and having insurance coverage [AOR: 2.31; 95% CI: (1.17 to 4.57)].

Conclusion

Compliance with the 8+ ANC contacts schedule remains very low. Efforts should focus on increasing health education, particularly for multiparous women, and encouraging mothers to begin ANC in their first trimester. Exploring the dynamics of partner support, especially with employment status, may offer insights into improving ANC attendance.
Wound imaging software and digital platform to assist review of surgical wounds using patient smartphones: The development and evaluation of artificial intelligence (WISDOM AI study)
Authors: Rochon Melissa , Tanner Judith , Jurkiewicz James , Beckhelling Jacqueline , Aondoakaa Akuha , Wilson Keith , Dhoonmoon Luxmi , Underwood Max , Mason Lara , Harris Roy , Cariaga Karen
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Surgical patients frequently experience post-operative complications at home. Digital remote monitoring of surgical wounds via image-based systems has emerged as a promising solution for early detection and intervention. However, the increased clinician workload from reviewing patient-submitted images presents a challenge. This study utilises artificial intelligence (AI) to prioritise surgical wound images for clinician review, aiming to efficiently manage workload.

Methods and analysis

Conducted from September 2023 to March 2024, the study phases included compiling a training dataset of 37,974 images, creating a testing set of 3,634 images, developing an AI algorithm using ’You Only Look Once’ models, and conducting prospective tests compared against clinical nurse specialists’ evaluations. The primary objective was to validate the AI’s sensitivity in prioritising wound reviews, alongside assessing intra-rater reliability. Secondary objectives focused on specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) for various wound features.

Results

The AI demonstrated a sensitivity of 89%, exceeding the target of 85% and proving effective in identifying cases requiring priority review. Intra-rater reliability was perfect, achieving 100% consistency in repeated assessments. Observations indicated variations in detecting wound characteristics across different skin tones; sensitivity was notably lower for incisional separation and discolouration in darker skin tones. Specificity remained high overall, with some results favouring darker skin tones. The NPV were similar for both light and dark skin tones. However, the NPV was slightly higher for dark skin tones at 95% (95% CI: 93%-97%) compared to 91% (95% CI: 87%-92%) for light skin tones. Both PPV and NPV varied, especially in identifying sutures or staples, indicating areas needing further refinement to ensure equitable accuracy.

Conclusion

The AI algorithm not only met but surpassed the expected sensitivity for identifying priority cases, showing high reliability. Nonetheless, the disparities in performance across skin tones, especially in recognising certain wound characteristics like discolouration or incisional separation, underline the need for ongoing training and adaptation of the AI to ensure fairness and effectiveness across diverse patient groups.
Phase-dependent trends in the prevalence of myalgic encephalomyelitis / chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) related to long COVID: A criteria-based retrospective study in Japan
Authors: Morita Satoru , Tokumasu Kazuki , Otsuka Yuki , Honda Hiroyuki , Nakano Yasuhiro , Sunada Naruhiko , Sakurada Yasue , Matsuda Yui , Soejima Yoshiaki , Ueda Keigo , Otsuka Fumio
Published: December 2024

Background

The characteristics of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) related to COVID-19 have remained uncertain. To elucidate the clinical trend of ME/CFS induced by long COVID, we examined data for patients who visited our outpatient clinic established in a university hospital during the period from Feb 2021 to July 2023.

Methods

Long COVID patients were classified into two groups, an ME/CFS group and a non-ME/CFS group, based on three diagnostic criteria.

Results

The prevalence of ME/CFS in the long COVID patients was 8.4% (62 of 739 cases; female: 51.6%) and factors related to ME/CFS were severe illness, smoking and alcohol drinking habits, and fewer vaccinations. The frequency of ME/CFS decreased from 23.9% in the Preceding period to 13.7% in the Delta-dominant period and to 3.3% in the Omicron-dominant period. Fatigue and headache were commonly frequent complaints in the ME/CFS group, and the frequency of poor concentration in the ME/CFS group was higher in the Omicron period. Serum ferritin levels were significantly higher in female patients in the ME/CFS group infected in the Preceding period. In the ME/CFS group, the proportion of patients complaining of brain fog significantly increased from 22.2% in the Preceding period to 47.9% in the Delta period and to 81.3% in the Omicron period. The percentage of patients who had received vaccination was lower in the ME/CFS group than the non-ME/CFS group over the study period, whereas there were no differences in the vaccination rate between the groups in each period.

Conclusion

The proportion of long COVID patients who developed ME/CFS strictly diagnosed by three criteria was lower among patients infected in the Omicron phase than among patients infected in the other phases, while the proportion of patients with brain fog inversely increased. Attention should be paid to the variant-dependent trends of ME/CFS triggered by long COVID (300 words).
Social networks that matter: Explaining the social participation of university students
Authors: Dávila María Celeste , Zlobina Anna , Belli Simone
Published: December 2024

Young people’s social participation has numerous benefits, and universities can play an important role in promoting it. The aim of this study is to broaden our understanding of the impact of social relationships on the development of social participation among university students. We also aimed to determine to what extent previous social participation experiences may modulate said impact. A total of 827 undergraduate students completed a questionnaire assessing their previous experience with social participation, the likelihood of their engaging in social participation in the future and the composition of their social networks, distinguishing between contacts on the basis of the type of relationship and its context (on or off campus). Although a clear relationship was found between social networks and previous experience with social participation, the association with the likelihood of engaging in social participation in the future was weaker and more complex. Previous experience was not found to modulate this association, and relationships with friends seem to be the most important factor in predicting future participation. The differences between civic and political participation are analysed, along with the practical implications of the results in light of, among other things, the potential role played by social norms.
Free and Equal: What Would a Fair Society Look Like?, Daniel Chandler (2023)
Authors: Davies Ian
Published: December 2024

Review of: Free and Equal: What Would a Fair Society Look Like?, Daniel Chandler (2023)

London: Allen Lane and Penguin Books, 403 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-24142-838-2, h/bk, £25
O recreio escolar como acordo mimético do “Processo Civilizador”
Authors: Oliveira Vinicius Machado de , Menegaldo Pedro Henrique Iglesiaz , Brasil Marcos Roberto , Mattes Verônica Volski , Souza Juliano de
Published: December 2024

Com o avanço do processo civilizador, o processo de escolarização se tornou bastante rígido, sendo necessário pensar em mecanismos de arrefecimento das rotinas escolares. É nesse contexto que o recreio escolar emerge como alternativa a converter as estátuas pensantes em corpos dinâmicos, autorizando o controle descontrolado das emoções, das relações e, principalmente, das manifestações sociais. À vista disso, sabendo das potencialidades desse valoroso espaço de investigação social, este estudo, por meio do referencial teórico eliasiano, teve por objetivo compreender de que forma, um momento, em tese, considerado menos produtivo pedagogicamente poderia agregar experiências tão importantes para o desenvolvimento dos escolares. Nessa esteira, o estudo evidencia que o recreio escolar pode ser interpretado como um ambiente polissêmico de manifestações e relações sociais, que permite expandir redes configuracionais e alargar as relações de interdependência, assim como testar o autocontrole das pulsões individuais.
Formação inicial de professores e inserção à docência: uma aproximação efetiva?
Authors: Souza Nathália Cristina Amorim Tamaio de
Published: December 2024

Neste texto tematizo as relações possíveis entre a formação inicial de professores e a inserção à docência, buscando compreender aspectos que favorecem, ou poderiam favorecer, o início da carreira docente. Para tanto, considero como corpus do presente estudo, o cotejamento de duas fontes: excertos de textos extraídos de produções escritas de licenciandas do quarto ano de um curso de Pedagogia, e apontamentos de pesquisas que apresentam contribuições ao tema. No que tange à apreciação teórico-metodológica, me aproprio da análise de discurso, segundo a premissa de estudos bakhtinianos. Abarcando o período de vivência no estágio supervisionado, por representar o espaço-tempo-lugar de realização de atividades que envolvem a docência propriamente dita, problematizo questões como: a inserção inicial viabilizada pelo estágio reúne os elementos necessários para que os futuros professores se coloquem no lugar da docência e sintam as diferentes dimensões da profissão? O que seria preciso priorizar para que a formação inicial oferecesse melhores condições de preparo para a prática profissional? Tanto a literatura quanto os enunciados das alunas indiciam as persistentes falhas formativas na condução de licenciandos para a aprendizagem da docência, destacando o caráter de mera aplicabilidade de teorias em contextos práticos. Tendo isso em vista, em seção específica, destaco caminhos para uma mudança qualitativa desse cenário.
Tempos e espaços do currículo nos cursos técnicos integrais ao Ensino Médio
Authors: Burmester Ana Claudia , Pasqualli Roberta
Published: December 2024

Este texto tem como objetivo discutir a problemática da relação dos jovens com o currículo dos cursos de Técnicos Integrados ao Ensino Médio (EMI), em uma perspectiva de criação de sentidos e significados e de participação e protagonismo juvenil frente aos saberes que perpassam a Educação Profissional e Tecnológica (EPT). Assim, emerge de reflexões a respeito das especificidades do currículo desses cursos, bem como da condição de seus estudantes, compreendida a partir do conceito de juventude. De natureza aplicada, a pesquisa foi realizada a partir dos conceitos da pesquisa participante, de abordagem qualitativa, com estudantes dos cursos técnicos em Alimentos e Edificações integrados ao Ensino Médio no Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia de Santa Catarina (IFSC). O texto apresenta a etapa empírica da pesquisa, na qual foram coletados dados por meio de um questionário online e, também, as análises e discussões oriundas desta etapa da pesquisa. Como resultados, levantou-se o perfil dos estudantes, indicando os diferentes sentidos que desenvolvem acerca da formação integrada e que também se relacionam às identidades plurais das juventudes. Verificou-se, ainda, a participação dos jovens em espaços institucionais de decisão a respeito do currículo dos cursos, sugerindo ser necessário um olhar atento a esse processo para que as discussões e decisões sejam tomadas tendo em mente os objetivos do currículo integrado e levando em consideração as identidades dos jovens. Palavras-chave: Integração curricular; Ensino médio; Juventude.
Inteligência artificial: uma alternativa à educação personalizada e inclusiva
Authors: Bernardino Lucas Martins , Camiran Renan Souza , Silva Fernando Selleri , Da Silva Joaquim Manuel , Rabêlo Olivan da Silva
Published: December 2024

No mundo, cerca de 15% da população possui algum tipo de necessidade especial, o que impacta diretamente no aprendizado em sala de aula, sendo necessário produtos, ferramentas e/ou metodologias  assertivas que possibilitem o aprendizado do aluno. Diante deste cenário, o trabalho demonstra tendências tecnológicas relacionadas ao uso de inteligência artificial na educação aplicadas em sala de aula, como uma alternativa a educação personalizada e inclusiva, por meio de levantamento bibliográfico e patentométrico. Nos últimos 20 anos, houve um acentuado crescimento em relação ao número de patentes depositadas e artigos produzidos no que se refere a tecnologias, metodologias e ferramentas assistivas utilizando inteligência artificial aplicada à educação, destacando-se neste cenário Estados Unidos e China. O Brasil ainda se encontra em desvantagem competitiva em relação ao número de depósitos de patente e produção literária, evidenciando a necessidade de investimentos em pesquisa, tecnologia e inovação.
Contribuições de um Programa de Especialização em Saúde da Família para a prática profissional na Atenção Primária à Saúde
Authors: Misael Jailton Rocha Misael , Santos Júnior Claudio José dos , Teixeira Geraldo Magella , Trindade Filho Euclides Mauricio , Wanderley Flávia Accioly Canuto , Santos Almira Alves dos
Published: December 2024

O presente estudo tem o objetivo de analisar as contribuições de um programa de especialização em Saúde da Família à prática profissional na Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS). Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, de natureza quantitativa e de corte transversal, com amostra composta por 59 discentes. Foram coletados dados sociodemográficos e profissionais, e utilizadas escalas tipo Likert, validadas e adaptadas: Escala de Expectativa em Relação ao Treinamento – EERT; e, Escala de Motivação para Transferir – EMT. A análise dos dados se deu por meio da estatística descritiva de frequências absoluta e relativa. No perfil discente, constatou-se a prevalência do público feminino (83,1%), de 30 e 49 anos (79,7%), com ao menos uma especialização concluída (84,7%) e 5 anos de formação (83,1%). Ademais, 93,2% dos respondentes (55 alunos) atuam na APS, com 44 discentes (74,6%) concursados. A categoria de enfermagem apresentou a maior representação (49,2%). Em função da capacidade laboral, 78,0% dos discentes sempre desenvolvem atividades educativas, mesmo com limitado incentivo dos gestores para a realização das práticas educativas (54,4%) e para a qualificação profissional (55,9%). O curso de especialização mostrou-se relevante para a APS, estimulando os discentes a utilizarem competências adquiridas (96,3%), com aumento da qualidade das ações desenvolvidas (90,9%), tornando-as mais fáceis (92,7%), com minimização de erros (92,7%), através da eficiente mudança no perfil gerencial (98,2%) e do fortalecimento do trabalho em equipe para a superação de eventuais barreiras (94,6%).
Tornar-se um “menino de bem”: formação ética, individuação e socialização na Educação Básica
Authors: Gabriela de Campos Flores Cristine , Barth Gomes Luana , Antonio Casagrande Cledes
Published: December 2024

Esse artigo, escrito na forma de ensaio, parte da narrativa infantil “As aventuras de Pinóquio”, a fim de discutir os processos de individuação, socialização e a formação ética na Educação Básica brasileira. Para tanto, inicialmente, apresenta-se uma discussão a respeito do conceito de ser humano, o sentido da existência e o caminho até tornar-se pessoa. Em seguida, é abordado o tema da individuação, um processo simbolicamente mediado que acontece por intermédio da socialização por meio da linguagem. A metodologia de análise e a interpretação deste ensaio baseiam-se na hermenêutica filosófica. Os principais autores que fundamentaram o presente texto são: Hermann (2001, 2002, 2008), Lima Vaz (2001, 2006), Frankl (2010), George H. Mead (1973, 1981) e Blumer (1969). No conto sobre Pinóquio, a escola é referida diversas vezes como um local de formação moral, onde ele deveria ir para estudar e para se tornar “um menino de bem”. Neste artigo, a Educação Básica é considerada um espaço-tempo propício para o desenvolvimento da identidade pessoal e para a formação ética dos sujeitos. Compreende-se o ambiente escolar como um espaço privilegiado de interação que pode promover e mediar situações para que ocorra essa formação. Dessa forma, defende-se que a educação contemporânea deve pensar um projeto pedagógico para formar um indivíduo capaz de viver e conviver, reconhecer-se enquanto pessoa na relação com o outro, a partir da construção de valores éticos.
Tecendo redes de afeto: contexto educacional na prisão em Rio Grande
Authors: Barbosa Moreira Raylene , Motta Castro Amanda
Published: December 2024

Trabalho e educação nos espaços de privação de liberdade é o tema central deste artigo que busca compreender o trabalho das mulheres que atuam com educação nestes espaços, compreendendo as diferentes identidades e culturas que as entrelaçam. A denúncia dos Estudos Feministas ao longo dos anos demonstram que as mulheres vivenciam a estrutura patriarcal em casa, no trabalho, na religião, nas relações familiares, sociais e profissionais. Esse acumulo de conhecimento já sistematizado nos levaram as seguintes perguntas: Quem são as mulheres trabalhadoras que atuam em espaços de privação de liberdade? Quais são os pré-requisitos e conhecimentos para essas profissionais atuarem nestes espaços e como as situações de opressão vivenciadas no cotidiano profissional afetam o desenvolvimento do seu trabalho? A pesquisa, de cunho etnográfico e dialético, parte da experiência das mulheres e de suas falas, considerando sua trajetória em seu espaço de trabalho: um presídio localizado no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, na cidade de Rio Grande, conhecido como PERG. O artigo nos permite concluir que, ainda que estejamos partindo das relações de um presídio misto, ou seja, ocupado por homens e mulheres, também falamos de um lugar pensado por homens e para homens.
O lápis, o caderno, um pouco de dignidade e uma fresta no tempo: a educação nas prisões brasileiras
Authors: Ribeiro Maria Luzineide Pereira da Costa
Published: December 2024

Abandonados os suplícios e os seus espetáculos de horror, o confinamento humano passou a representar a proposta civilizada de correção. Partindo desse pressuposto, o presente artigo traz uma temática recorrente nas prisões, a educação. Pretendemos discutir aqui seu avanço sobre o cárcere, consubstanciado na ideia de tempo – a medida de pagamento da pena – a partir da legislação vigente e das ações do Estado, das condições de encarceramento, para compreender em que medida essa população, que teve apenas restrito o seu direito à liberdade, tem os seus direitos fundamentais respeitados e assegurados por meio de políticas públicas, sobretudo, de Educação. Nessa perspectiva, analisaremos as ações voltadas a pessoas encarceradas, sobretudo, jovens, como medida redutora de dias, num contexto extremamente excludente e diante de uma população marcada pela pouca escolaridade. Como base de dados para descrição do cenário educacional e recorte do perfil desse público foi utilizado o sistema de informações estatísticas do sistema penitenciário brasileiro. Para melhor entendimento das políticas de educação e seus desdobramentos, à luz da legislação vigente e de pesquisas acadêmicas sobre o tema. Como aporte teórico, na abordagem do conceito de tempo e prisão, estudiosos renomados como Bogo Chies (2008), Loic Wacquant (2001), Michel Foucault (1997), entre outros importantes pesquisadores da questão criminal. Se em meio a promessas de ressocialização, temos jovens agonizando na prisão com projetos de vida e de futuro comprometidos, ao final, percebemos que enquanto desdobramento das políticas de educação, a leitura apresenta-se como medida eficiente na redução de dias e como estímulo às práticas educativas.