bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CONHECIMENTO, ECOLOGIA DE SABERES E EDUCAÇÃO INTERCULTURAL CRÍTICA
Authors: Nascimento Erica Pereira dos Santos , Ferrão Candau Vera Maria
Published: December 2024

As questões sobre conhecimento são centrais para a educação escolar, onde, em geral, predomina uma visão que reconhece apenas os conhecimentos científicos como legítimos e relevantes. Ou seja, uma perspectiva monocultural e universalizante. No entanto, nos últimos anos, são cada vez mais intensas as discussões e as buscas, tanto pela academia quanto pelos movimentos sociais, pelo reconhecimento e valorização da pluralidade de conhecimentos presentes na sociedade e na escola. Neste contexto, as contribuições de Boaventura Sousa Santos, especialmente sobre a ecologia de saberes, têm desempenhado um papel fundamental. Este trabalho tem como objetivo aprofundar o sentido da expressão ecologia de saberes, de sua autoria, assim como identificar a produção acadêmica do âmbito educacional que vem se apropriando dela. Na realização deste mapeamento três plataformas de pesquisa foram acessadas: Catálogo de Teses e Dissertações da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES); Anais das reuniões nacionais da Associação Nacional de Pós-Graduação e Pesquisa em Educação (ANPEd) e Biblioteca Eletrônica Científica Online (SciELO). Apresentamos e analisamos os dados obtidos, refletimos e tecemos algumas considerações sobre as contribuições com e a partir da ecologia de saberes para o desenvolvimento de processos de educação intercultural crítica.
TECENDO RESISTÊNCIAS LGBTQIAPN+ NA EDUCAÇÃO:
Authors: Carvalho Rodrigues Manuela , Zenha Cordeiro Leonardo
Published: December 2024

O presente estudo relata as itinerâncias do processo de pesquisa desenvolvido em uma Escola de Ensino Fundamental e Médio, a partir da perspectiva de professores-pesquisadores-formadores. O objetivo é questionar o currículo escolar e discutir a temática LGBTQIAPN+ no cotidiano do espaço educacional (Alves, 2019), promovendo atos de currículo (Macêdo, 2011) que contribuam para a autoformação e a formação dos estudantes, com o uso de mídias digitais e a construção de dispositivos autorais. A pesquisa adotou a metodologia da pesquisa-formação na cibercultura (Santos, 2019), que viabilizou a construção de atos de currículo voltados para a discussão de uma temática frequentemente silenciada na escola: a sexualidade. O trabalho foi desenvolvido por meio do projeto Cine da Diferença e de rodas de conversa, que estimularam a criação de materiais autorais, como cards no Canva e vídeos no TikTok, posteriormente postados na página do Instagram @juntos_e_diferentes. Os resultados evidenciaram que o debate sobre a diferença (Paraíso, 2023) começou a se consolidar no ambiente da sala de aula, especialmente por meio do dispositivo “Juntos_e_Diferentes”, que questiona a cisheteronormatividade. As produções dos estudantes fortaleceram sua participação ativa na construção de novas práticas curriculares, culminando na criação da página no Instagram, que funciona como espaço de compartilhamento e reflexão. Verificou-se que o currículo escolar ainda se apresenta como um artefato rígido, resistente a rupturas. No entanto, foi possível identificar avanços, ainda que iniciais, na direção de um currículo rizomático (Deleuze; Guattari, 1995), formativo (Macêdo, 2011) e voltado para a diferença (Paraíso, 2023), articulado à cibercultura (Santos, 2019). Esses avanços apontam para a possibilidade de construção de novas tessituras curriculares que contemplem a diversidade e promovam uma educação mais inclusiva.
CONSTRUINDO PONTES EM VEZ DE MUROS
Authors: Mabongo Antonio
Published: December 2024

Este estudo procura contribuir no processo de construção de relações inter-religiosas pacíficas. Para tal, o estudo descreve e analisa como as pessoas, no distrito de Mandlakazi, sul de Moçambique, articulam o cristianismo e a religião ancestral africana, para verificar que possíveis lições sobre a convivência inter-religiosa esta prática oferece. O estudo resulta de uma pesquisa qualitativa, cujos dados foram recolhidos através da observação participante e entrevistas semiestruturadas e interpretados a partir de uma perspectiva interdisciplinar que articula a antropologia, a teoria decolonial e a teologia. Os dados indicam que, ao contrário do discurso oficial protestante e neopentecostal que encara o duplo engajamento religioso como um mal a ser combatido, na sua vida quotidiana, as pessoas engajam duplas práticas religiosas, seja de forma aberta ou dissimulada, porque consideram que, embora distintas, ambas complementam-se na busca do seu bem-estar. A partir desta constatação, o estudo destaca a complementaridade religiosa como um modelo fecundo tanto para a transformação social, uma vez que ajuda a moldar atitudes e comportamentos de colaboração e respeito mútuo entre as religiões e seus praticantes, como em termos teóricos, pois permite-nos prestar atenção à forma pela qual as pessoas, enquanto agentes activos, mobilizam e negoceiam as religiões de acordo com a sua agência.
Práticas de Enfermeiras na saúde da família: continuidade no cuidado a usuários com condições crônicas
Authors: Silva Franciele Nascimento de Araujo , Agonigi Regina Cavalcante , Acioli Sonia
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: identificar as práticas de enfermeiras na ESF voltadas à continuidade do cuidado aos usuários com condições crônicas. Método: estudo analítico, exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa, realizado com enfermeiras de uma unidade de estratégia de saúde da família do município do Rio de Janeiro, após aprovação do Comitê de Ética e Pesquisa. utilizou-se a análise de conteúdo de Bardin para análise dos dados. Resultados: foram identificadas três categorias: Desafios na Jornada pela Integralidade do Cuidado na Estratégia de Saúde da Família, Promovendo a Continuidade do Cuidado: Práticas das Enfermeiras e Potencializando a Longitudinalidade: Ações e Serviços Essenciais. Considerações finais: destacaram-se as práticas direcionadas as necessidades territoriais, ao fortalecimento do vínculo, ao protagonismo individual, ao trabalho multiprofissional, a participação ativa da gestão, a articulação intersetorial, a escuta ativa e a rede de apoio.
Experiência profissional e idade como contributo do clima de segurança no centro cirúrgico: estudo transversal
Authors: Fassarella Cintia Silva , Ferreira Rosilene Alves , Veiga Nathália Henriques , Azevedo Ana Paula Silvestre dos Santos , Ribeiro Olga Maria Pimenta Lopes , Pereira Soraia Cristina de Abreu , Camerini Flavia Giron , Henrique Danielle de Mendonça
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: identificar a associação entre tempo de experiência profissional e idade com os domínios do clima de segurança dos profissionais do centro cirúrgico. Método: estudo transversal, realizado com 179 profissionais da equipe multiprofissional do centro cirúrgico universitário localizado no Rio de Janeiro, utilizando o Questionário de Atitudes de Segurança/Centro Cirúrgico. Associação das variáveis determinada pelo teste qui-quadrado (p<0,05). Resultados: evidencia-se associação do tempo de experiência com os domínios do clima de segurança “Percepção da gerência” (p-valor 0.039), “Percepção do desempenho profissional” (p-valor 0.014) e “Percepção do estresse” (p-valor <0.001). Para idade, observa-se associação com “Percepção do desempenho profissional” (p-valor <0.001) e “Percepção do estresse” (p-valor <0.001). Conclusão: observou-se que tempo de experiência profissional e idade obtiveram associação com o clima de segurança, assim essas variáveis podem auxiliar gestores do centro cirúrgico em traçarem melhores estratégias de alocação de recursos humanos, de modo a promover uma assistência cirúrgica mais efetiva e segura.
Vulnerabilidade e populações vulnerabilizadas às infecções sexualmente transmissíveis nos currículos de enfermagem: percepção dos docentes
Authors: Petry Stéfany , Padilha Maria Itayra , Silva Amina Regina , Villarinho Mariana Vieira , Costa Roberta
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: analisar o interesse teórico, político e filosófico acerca da vulnerabilidade e das populações vulnerabilizadas às infecções sexualmente transmissíveis na formação dos estudantes de Graduação em Enfermagem de Universidades Federais brasileiras. Método: estudo qualitativo, histórico social, com uso de fontes orais e documentais. Realizadas 23 entrevistas com docentes de cinco cursos de graduação em enfermagem. Os dados foram inseridos no software Atlas.ti versão 9.0 para codificação, e operacionalizada a Análise de Conteúdo. Resultados: a vulnerabilidade e as populações vulnerabilizadas são compreendidas pelos docentes diante de sua complexidade, que envolve fatores sociais, estruturais e econômicos. São discutidas em alguns momentos durante o processo formativo. Os estudantes possuem dificuldades em perceber a própria vulnerabilidade. Considerações finais: a abordagem dessa temática deve ser discutida no ensino dos futuros enfermeiros. A vulnerabilidade do estudante precisa ser refletida de modo que o mesmo perceba sua própria vulnerabilidade e compreenda a importância do autocuidado.
GERENCIAMENTO DE RESÍDUOS EM HOSPITAIS DE ENSINO NO BRASIL: UMA REVISÃO DA LITERATURA
Authors: Medeiros Amanda dos Santos , Silva Elmo Rodrigues da
Published: December 2024

Hospitais de ensino (HEs) são estabelecimentos de assistência, ensino, pesquisa e extensão, sendo fundamentais para a formação de mão de obra na área da saúde no Brasil. Esta revisão narrativa e bibliométrica avalia a produção de artigos científicos sobre o Gerenciamento de Resíduos de Serviços de Saúde em HEs no Brasil. Realizou-se uma busca por artigos científicos publicados no período entre 2005 e 2021 nas principais bases de dados relacionadas à área. Obteve-se uma amostra de 19 artigos, produzidos majoritariamente em instituições públicas localizadas na região Sudeste, evidenciando disparidades regionais na produção sobre o tema. Dentre os desafios apresentados, destacam-se: falta de treinamento, más condições de trabalho dos profissionais e a falta de uma logística estruturada para os resíduos. O baixo número de artigos resultantes da busca, somado a ausência de publicações em alguns anos sugere uma descontinuidade na produção sobre o tema. Concluiu-se que os HEs, por serem vinculados a Instituições de Ensino Superior, possuem o ambiente propício para o desenvolvimento de novas tecnologias de gerenciamento, trazendo ainda mais contribuições para a sociedade
DIRECTRICES GENERALES PARA ELABORACIÓN DE PLANOS DE MONITOREO AMBIENTAL
Authors: Cardoso Ferreira Letícia , Ribeiro de Almeida Josimar , Alencar de Aguiar Laís , dos Santos Matta Patrícia , Ferreira Leal Rodrigo , do Couto Pereira Raphael
Published: December 2024

El principal objetivo del monitoreo ambiental es identificar cambios en los niveles de contaminantes y emitir alertas. Los resultados esenciales incluyen el desarrollo de planes de contingencia, la identificación de “puntos críticos” y la definición de prioridades de protección. Para ser efectivo, el monitoreo debe considerar las actividades humanas actuales y planificadas, seleccionando variables basadas en justificaciones científicas, practicidad y confiabilidad. El monitoreo debe abarcar análisis químicos e información biológica, a pesar de las variaciones y desafíos en el uso rutinario de datos biológicos debido a fluctuaciones temporales y espaciales. Un plan de monitoreo ambiental no se limita al estudio de las condiciones ambientales. Por definición, el monitoreo implica el uso de métodos para detectar cambios que podrían dañar los ecosistemas o la salud humana. Por lo tanto, es fundamental establecer objetivos claros para los programas de seguimiento, ya que la mera recopilación de datos puede resultar ineficaz. Las estrategias deben garantizar una evaluación precisa de la contaminación, alinear los esfuerzos de monitoreo con los estándares legales y minimizar el uso de recursos mientras se maximiza la previsibilidad. Adoptar estrategias de monitoreo temporal para comprender los cambios ambientales implica mapeo periódico u observaciones continuas, basadas en la naturaleza y permanencia de los contaminantes.
Compact Nd:YVO4 laser system based on a vapor chamber passive cooling technique
Authors: Li Zhuoran , Yu Jun , Zhan Ke , Gu Jinwei , Cui Qingyue , Kong Han , Xu Hanlin , Zhang Zhe , Wang Famei , Lin Qingdian , Liang Jialin , Zhou Cangtao , Ruan Shuangchen , Guo Xiaoyang
Published: December 2024

A compact Nd:YVO4 laser system based on a vapor chamber passive cooling technique has been developed and explored for the first time, to our best knowledge. An average power of 8.84 W with beam quality of M2<2.2 and slope efficiency of 44% is experimentally demonstrated, which is better than using the pure copper plate cooling and is similar to using water cooling under the same experimental conditions. This work demonstrates the advantages and promising applications of the vapor chamber cooling technique in solid-state lasers.
Challenging the skin pigmentation bias in tissue oximetry via time-domain near-infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Lacerenza Michele , Amendola Caterina , Bargigia Ilaria , Bossi Alessandro , Buttafava Mauro , Calcaterra Valeria , Contini Davide , Damagatla Vamshi , Negretti Fabio , Rossi Virginia , Spinelli Lorenzo , Zanelli Sara , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo , Torricelli Alessandro
Published: December 2024

Recently, skin pigmentation has been shown to affect the performance of pulse oximeters and other light-based techniques like photo-acoustic imaging, tissue oximetry, and continuous wave near-infrared spectroscopy. Evaluating the robustness to changes in skin pigmentation is therefore essential for the proper use of optical technologies in the clinical scenario. We conducted systematic time-domain near-infrared spectroscopy measurements on calibrated tissue phantoms and in vivo on volunteers during static and dynamic (i.e., arterial occlusion) measurements. To simulate varying melanosome volume fractions in the skin, we inserted, between the target sample and the measurement probe, thin tissue phantoms made of silicone and nigrosine (skin phantoms). Additionally, we conducted an extensive measurement campaign on a large cohort of pediatric subjects, covering the full spectrum of skin pigmentation. Our findings consistently demonstrate that skin pigmentation has a negligible effect on time-domain near-infrared spectroscopy results, underscoring the reliability and potential of this emerging technology in diverse clinical settings.
STAIC regularization for 2D spatio-temporal image reconstruction
Authors: Skariah Deepak G. , Arigovindan Muthuvel
Published: December 2024

We propose a regularization-based image restoration method for 2D images recorded over time (2D+t). We design an infimal convolution-based regularization function, which we call the spatio-temporal adaptive infimal convolution (STAIC) regularization. We formulate our regularization in the form of an additive decomposition of the 2D+t image such that the extent of spatial and temporal smoothing is controlled in a spatially and temporally varying manner. This makes the regularization adaptable to the local characteristics of the motion, leading to an improved ability to handle noise. We also develop a minimization method for image reconstruction by using the proposed form of regularization. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed regularization using TIRF images recorded over time and compare it with some selected existing regularization methods.
Preparation of the Schrödinger cat quantum state using parametric down-conversion interaction
Authors: Gorshenin V. L.
Published: December 2024

Schrödinger cat (SC) states are important in quantum optics because of their non-Gaussian properties. We propose a novel, to the best of our knowledge, method for the conditional generation of bright (multi-photon) SC states that uses degenerate parametric down-conversion and heralding measurement of the photon number in the pump mode. We show that this method, in principle, could be implemented using modern high-Q optical microresonators.
Self-linewidth-narrowing photonic oscillator
Authors: Alouini Mehdi , Danion Gwennaël , Vallet Marc
Published: December 2024

We detail here the general principle of a self-adaptive oscillator in which the intertwined operation of a 100-m-long active optical resonator and a standard semiconductor laser mutually coupled by stimulated Brillouin scattering offers an ultimate high spectral purity. Single frequency operation of this self-adaptive photonic oscillator is achieved without any servo locking or stabilization electronics. In free running operation, this principle leads to a Lorentzian linewidth of 40 mHz and a Flicker noise linewidth of 200 Hz for 0.01 s integration time. The long-term drift of the optical frequency without absolute frequency locking is in the range of 10 MHz over hours. This principle applies to any wavelength attainable by laser diodes which opens tremendous opportunities, in particular in applications where atomic or molecular transitions require precise wavelengths.
Achieving an efficient near-infrared luminescence and wide-range spectral tunability in garnet Na2CaHf2Ge3O12:Cr3+ phosphor
Authors: Liao Zurong , Li Ying , Zhong Jiyou
Published: December 2024

Near-infrared (NIR) phosphor-converted light-emitting diode (pc-LED) has emerged as the most promising NIR light source, highlighting the importance of exploring phosphors with excellent efficiency and sufficient spectral coverage. Herein, a garnet Na2CaHf2Ge3O12:Cr3+ phosphor with an internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of 79.2% has been developed, which exhibits a relatively long wavelength NIR emission peak at 830 nm and a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 144 nm. Moreover, the emission peak can be gradually tuned to 903 nm with an emission intensity maintaining over 60% utilizing a chemical unit co-substitution strategy. Thus, the developed material in this work has an excellent efficiency with a relatively long wavelength NIR emission and wide-range spectral tunability, being promising for multifunctional spectroscopy applications.
Localization and coherent imaging of hidden moving objects using laser speckle
Authors: Hastings Ryan L. , Webb Kevin J.
Published: December 2024

Imaging and sensing of moving objects through opaque scattering media is a challenging but important problem in a variety of applications, including environmental sensing, biomedical imaging, and material inspection. We have previously demonstrated a technique to coherently image a moving object through thick, heavily scattering random media using correlations of speckle images as a function of the object’s spatial translation. Here, we demonstrate that this technique can be combined with localization to achieve imaging without prior knowledge of the object’s motion, greatly extending the application domain. This method is effective beyond the thin or weakly scattering regime and, rather than motion being deleterious, exploits the information available when the hidden object is moving, as could be the case in a cluttered terrestrial environment or through substantial levels of biological tissue scatter.
Advanced optimized detection scheme based on a neural network in a bandwidth-limited IM/DD system
Authors: Xie Fei , Huang Xiaoqian , Xu Hengying , Bai Chenglin , Qiao Yaojun
Published: December 2024

In this Letter, we propose a high-performance optimized detection scheme based on a neural network (NN) in a receiver digital signal processing (DSP) for bandwidth-limited intensity modulation and direct detection (IM/DD) transmission systems. The NN-based optimized detection scheme consists of two components, an NN-based lookup table (NN-LUT) and an NN-based log-maximum a posteriori estimation with a fixed number of surviving state (NN-MAP) decoder. The NN-LUT provides more accurate and sufficient a priori information (PI) to the decoder than the conventional filter-form PI without increasing computational complexity. The NN-MAP decoder can be optimized for detection using the NN-form PI. The proposed scheme is implemented in a 122-Gbps IM/DD optical 4-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM-4) system with a 3.7-GHz 3-dB bandwidth. The results demonstrate that the proposed NN-MAP scheme can enhance receiver sensitivity by 1.4 dB under the same complexity compared to conventional optimized detection, achieving a 20% forward error correction threshold. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the inaugural instance of NN being employed for optimized detection.
Dual-polarization angle-selective surface structure with adjustable passbands and wide-angle selection characteristics
Authors: Lai Senfeng , Tan Junxian , Luo JingYi , Fu Huiyuan Huiyuan
Published: December 2024

Due to the current limitations of angle-selective surface structures that cannot simultaneously meet the ideal angular selection characteristics, adjustable passbands, and dual polarization, an angle-selective surface structure with a wide-angle selection characteristic and adjustable passbands based on a three-layer frequency-selective surface is presented. Through theoretical analysis, calculation, and simulation derivation, a three-layer cross-slotted structure was ultimately selected as the unit structure for this design. The proposed three-layer angle-selective surface structure features identical upper and lower structures, while the middle layer structure is different from both. The simulation results indicate that the proposed design displays a passband (|S21|>-1 dB) within the incident angle range of 0° to 23.5° at a frequency of 3 GHz for the TE and TM polarization modes, and shows a stopband (|S21|<-20 dB) when the incident angle is greater than 36°. Although various factors influenced the simulation results, we believe that the simulation results will provide valuable reference for researchers in the relevant field.
Efficiency of passive Q-switched regimes in erbium-doped fiber lasers using polarization-dependent and independent isolators: a DFT study of V2CTx band structure and optical properties
Authors: Saddam  , Khan Aamir , Asghar Mamoon , Ahmed Rizwan , Alrebdi T. A. , Khan Afrasiab , Baig M. Aslam , Asghar Haroon
Published: December 2024

In this study, we demonstrate the integration of novel two-dimensional
(2D) vanadium carbide (V2CTx) MXene nanosheets
as saturable-absorber (SA) into an erbium-doped fiber laser (EDFL)
cavity, enabling both polarization-independent passive Q-switched
(PI-PQS) and polarization-dependent passive Q-switched (PD-PQS) pulse
operations. The V2CTx nanosheets were
synthesized then the morphogy as well structure of the prepared
nanosheets were characterized through scanning electron microscopy
(SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. In PI-PQS operation,
pulse generation was initiated at a pump power of 17.5 mW, while in
PD-PQS operation, the pulse operation was initiated at 92.9 mW. With a
maximum pump power of 312.5 mW, the pulse duration and average output
power were 4.92 µs and 1.19 mW for the PI-PQS EDFL and 4.25
µs and 2.09 mW for the PD-PQS EDFL, respectively. Furthermore,
employing density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we obtained
the band structure and optical properties of
V2CTx, confirming its importance as an SA in
EDFL. These results validate the optimized performance of PD-PQS EDFL
relative to PI-PQS EDFL. This study further suggests that other MXenes
may have potential as SAs in EDFLs for producing Q-switched pulses,
warranting further investigation.
High-resolution multilevel reversible color printing based on Sb2S3 phase change materials
Authors: Li Zhiwei , Wei Tao , Sun Lihao , Hu Jing , Cheng Miao , Liu Qianqian , Wang Ruirui , Ling Yun , Li Wanfei , Liu Bo
Published: December 2024

Phase change material is promising for a color-changing device owing to its substantial optical contrast between amorphous and crystalline states. However, current phase change material, such as Ge2Sb2Te5 thin film, has restrained the color-changing performance owing to its high optical absorption. Sb2S3 thin film, exhibiting large refractive index difference and low absorption between crystalline and amorphous states, is a promising alternative. Here, a color device with Al/Sb2S3/SiO2-stacking layer is prepared, and high-resolution, multilevel, reversible color printing is realized. Wide color gamut is successfully obtained by controlling either the Sb2S3 thickness or its crystallization degree. Furthermore, the proposed color device can be patterned by direct laser writing and erased by a picosecond laser system, possessing good reversible cycling stability. High-resolution pixel higher than 42,000 DPI is further implemented. Moreover, a flexible color device is also fabricated, which possesses superior angular insensitivity from 10° to 60° and is hardly faded after bending and folding 10 times. This work may have wide applications in the fields of color printing, flexible displays, wearable optoelectronic devices, and so forth.
Multiple independent genetic code reassignments of the UAG stop codon in phyllopharyngean ciliates
Authors: McGowan Jamie , Richards Thomas A. , Hall Neil , Swarbreck David
Published: December 2024

The translation of nucleotide sequences into amino acid sequences, governed by the genetic code, is one of the most conserved features of molecular biology. The standard genetic code, which uses 61 sense codons to encode one of the 20 standard amino acids and 3 stop codons (UAA, UAG, and UGA) to terminate translation, is used by most extant organisms. The protistan phylum Ciliophora (the ’ciliates’) are the most prominent exception to this norm, exhibiting the grfeatest diversity of nuclear genetic code variants and evidence of repeated changes in the code. In this study, we report the discovery of multiple independent genetic code changes within the Phyllopharyngea class of ciliates. By mining publicly available ciliate genome datasets, we discovered that three ciliate species from the TARA Oceans eukaryotic metagenome dataset use the UAG codon to putatively encode leucine. We identified novel suppressor tRNA genes in two of these genomes which are predicted to decode the reassigned UAG codon to leucine. Phylogenomics analysis revealed that these three uncultivated taxa form a monophyletic lineage within the Phyllopharyngea class. Expanding our analysis by reassembling published phyllopharyngean genome datasets led to the discovery that the UAG codon had also been reassigned to putatively code for glutamine in Hartmannula sinica and Trochilia petrani. Phylogenomics analysis suggests that this occurred via two independent genetic code change events. These data demonstrate that the reassigned UAG codons have widespread usage as sense codons within the phyllopharyngean ciliates. Furthermore, we show that the function of UAA is firmly fixed as the preferred stop codon. These findings shed light on the evolvability of the genetic code in understudied microbial eukaryotes.
Optimizing delivery strategies for 3HP TB preventive treatment in Tanzania: A qualitative study on acceptability of family approach in HIV care and treatment centers
Authors: Pamba Doreen , Sanga Erica , Mlalama Killian , Maganga Lucas , Mangu Chacha , Lwilla Anange , Olomi Willyhelmina , Minja Lilian Tina , Sabi Issa , Kisonga Riziki , Matechi Emmanuel , Jelly Isaya , Neema Peter , Rwebembera Anath , Aboud Said , Ntinginya Nyanda Elias
Published: December 2024

Tanzania rolled-out a 12-dose, weekly regimen of isoniazid plus rifapentine (3HP) TB preventive treatment in January 2024. The 3HP completion rate is generally ≥80%, varying by delivery strategy and programmatic setting. Before the roll-out, a mixed methods study was conducted to assess whether a family approach involving family member support, SMS reminders, and three health education sessions was acceptable and optimized 3HP uptake and completion. This paper describes acceptability of the family approach among people living with HIV (PLHIV), treatment supporters (TS), and community health workers (CHWs). This was a qualitative descriptive study in 12 HIV care and treatment centers across six administrative regions. We purposively sampled 20 PLHIV, 12 CHWs for in-depth interviews, and 23 TS for three focus group discussions held between September and December 2023. The theoretical framework of acceptability guided thematic-content analysis using a framework approach. Participants understood that PLHIV have an increased risk for active TB and that 3HP provides shortened treatment for TB disease prevention. They learned about TB and 3HP through health education sessions, but participation of TS was low due to expensive transportation costs to clinics. Receiving support from a trusted person and SMS were perceived as good adherence reminders. The majority reported mild self-limiting side effects but expressed positive attitudes because of the shortened treatment, TB counseling, satisfaction from helping others, lifestyle and work alignment, and reduced work burden. Some PLHIV had difficulties identifying supportive family members, so they chose close friends or CHWs. The family approach to supporting 3HP adherence is widely accepted by PLHIVs, TS, and CHWs in the context of person-centered care that respects their preferences. We recommend its adoption in programmatic settings as a combined approach, considering changes made during the study. However, further research is warranted to assess its acceptance among other populations eligible for 3HP.
Thermosensory behaviors of the free-living life stages of Strongyloides species support parasitism in tropical environments
Authors: Gregory Ben T. , Desouky Mariam , Slaughter Jaidyn , Hallem Elissa A. , Bryant Astra S.
Published: December 2024

Soil-transmitted parasitic nematodes infect over 1 billion people worldwide and are a common source of neglected disease. Strongyloides stercoralis is a potentially fatal skin-penetrating human parasite that is endemic to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The complex life cycle of Strongyloides species is unique among human-parasitic nematodes in that it includes a single free-living generation featuring soil-dwelling, bacterivorous adults whose progeny all develop into infective larvae. The sensory behaviors that enable free-living Strongyloides adults to navigate and survive soil environments are unknown. S. stercoralis infective larvae display parasite-specific sensory-driven behaviors, including robust attraction to mammalian body heat. In contrast, the free-living model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans displays thermosensory behaviors that guide adult worms to stay within a physiologically permissive range of environmental temperatures. Do S. stercoralis and C. elegans free-living adults, which experience similar environmental stressors, display common thermal preferences? Here, we characterize the thermosensory behaviors of the free-living adults of S. stercoralis as well as those of the closely related rat parasite, Strongyloides ratti. We find that Strongyloides free-living adults are exclusively attracted to near-tropical temperatures, despite their inability to infect mammalian hosts. We further show that lifespan is shorter at higher temperatures for free-living Strongyloides adults, similar to the effect of temperature on C. elegans lifespan. However, we also find that the reproductive potential of the free-living life stage is enhanced at warmer temperatures, particularly for S. stercoralis. Together, our results reveal a novel role for thermotaxis to maximize the infectious capacity of obligate parasites and provide insight into the biological adaptations that may contribute to their endemicity in tropical climates.
Structure-based virtual screening of Trachyspermum ammi metabolites targeting acetylcholinesterase for Alzheimer’s disease treatment
Authors: Musa Mohammed Sakib , Islam Md. Tahsinul , Billah Wasif , Hossain Md. Siam , Rahat Md. Shirajuce Shalakin , Bayil Imren , Munni Yeasmin Akter , Ganguli Sumon
Published: December 2024

In recent decades, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has garnered significant attention due to its rapid global prevalence. The cholinergic hypothesis posits that the degradation of acetylcholine by acetylcholinesterase (AChE) contributes to AD development. Despite existing anti-AChE drugs, their adverse side effects necessitate new agents. This study analyzed 150 bioactive phytochemicals from Trachyspermum ammi using structure-based drug design and various in-silico tools to identify potent anti-AChE compounds. Compounds were screened for drug-likeness (QEDw ≥50%) and bioavailability (≥55%) and underwent toxicity profiling via the ProTox-II server. Selected compounds were prepared for molecular docking with the human AChE protein as the receptor. Viridifloral, 2-Methyl-3-glucosyloxy-5-isopropyl phenol, Alpha-Curcumene, and Sterol emerged as top candidates with high AChE affinity. These results were validated by molecular dynamics simulations, confirming stable interactions. The hit compounds were further evaluated for drug-likeness using Lipinski’s rule and ADMET properties, confirming favorable pharmacokinetic profiles. DFT optimization analyzed frontier molecular orbitals and electrostatic potential, demonstrating favorable chemical reactivity and stability. This study suggests that these identified compounds could be novel nature-derived AChE inhibitors, potentially contributing to AD treatment. However, further in-vitro and in-vivo studies are necessary to confirm their efficacy in biological systems. Future research will focus on developing these compounds into safe and effective drugs to combat Alzheimer’s disease.
Dynamic performance of a slab track–concrete box subgrade under a double-line high speed railway
Authors: Liu Jinglei , Zhou Weihao , Cao Jinyuan , Li Xiuxin , Jin Yinghui , Ye Qingzhi , Feng Guishuai
Published: December 2024

Concrete box subgrades constructed from reinforced concrete serve as alternatives to conventional fill subgrades, effectively addressing the scarcity of high-quality fill materials. A hybrid simulation approach that merges coupled dynamics with finite element modelling was adopted for both single-line and double-line ballastless track-box subgrade systems, enabling a comparative analysis of dynamic stress, displacement, and acceleration. The results reveal that, when the two traffic conditions are compared, the dynamic response of the concrete box subgrade under double-line opposing operation shows a marked increase, particularly when the dynamic displacement increases by 80%. Under opposing traffic conditions, the dynamic stress on the subgrade surface exhibits a "saddle" distribution. Vertically, the dynamic stress inversely increases within the roof and rapidly attenuates in the vertical web and floor, with reductions reaching 92.7% at the floor bottom, demonstrating the substantial capacity of the concrete box subgrade to disperse train loads. The peak dynamic displacements recorded at the subgrade surface are 0.178 mm for single-line traffic and 0.320 mm for opposing operations, indicating minimal overall vertical deformation of the concrete box subgrade. Notably, the dynamic displacement on the subgrade surface results primarily from the underlying weak subsoil. Vertical acceleration attenuation occurs predominantly within the vertical web depth, with attenuation rates exceeding 95%. The environmental vibrations induced by high-speed trains predominantly affect the area within 0 to 4 m from the edge of the subgrade floor.
An optimization model to prioritize fuel treatments within a landscape fuel break network
Authors: Nguyen Dung , Wei Yu , Belval Erin J. , Thompson Matthew P. , Gannon Benjamin M. , Young Jesse D. , O’Connor Christopher D. , Calkin David E.
Published: December 2024

We present a mixed integer programming model for prioritizing fuel treatments within a landscape fuel break network to maximize protection against wildfires, measured by the total fire size reduction or the sum of Wildland Urban Interface areas avoided from burning. This model uses a large dataset of simulated wildfires in a large landscape to inform fuel break treatment decisions. Its mathematical formulation is concise and computationally efficient, allowing for customization and expansion to address more complex and challenging fuel break management problems in diverse landscapes. We constructed test cases for Southern California of the United States to understand model outcomes across a wide range of fire and fuel management scenarios. Results suggest optimal fuel treatment layouts within the Southern California’s fuel break network responding to various model assumptions, which offer insights for regional fuel break planning. Comparative tests between the proposed optimization model and a rule-based simulation approach indicate that the optimization model can provide significantly better solutions within reasonable solving times, highlighting its potential to support fuel break management and planning decisions.
An experimental study of simulated grant peer review: Gender differences and psychometric characteristics of proposal scores
Authors: Schmaling Karen B. , Gallo Stephen A.
Published: December 2024

Peer review is a decisive factor in selecting research grant proposals for funding. The usefulness of peer review depends in part on the agreement of multiple reviewers’ judgments of the same proposal, and on each reviewer’s consistency in judging proposals. Peer reviewers are also instructed to disregard characteristics that are not among the evaluation criteria. However, for example, the gender identity—of the investigator or reviewer—may be associated with differing evaluations. This experiment sought to characterize the psychometric properties of peer review among 605 experienced peer reviewers and to examine possible differences in peer review judgments based on peer reviewer and investigator gender. Participants evaluated National Institutes of Health-style primary reviewers’ overall impact statements that summarized the study’s purpose, its overall evaluation, and its strengths and weaknesses in five criterion areas: significance, approach, investigator, innovation, and environment. Evaluations were generally consistent between reviewers and within reviewers over a two-week period. However, there was less consistency in judging proposals with weaknesses. Regarding gender differences, women reviewers tended to provide more positive evaluations, and women investigators received better overall evaluations. Unsuccessful grant applicants use reviewer feedback to improve their proposals, which could be made more challenging with inconsistent reviews. Peer reviewer training and calibration could increase reviewer consistency, which is especially relevant for proposals with weaknesses according to this study’s results. Evidence of systematic differences in proposal scores based on investigator and reviewer gender may also indicate the usefulness of calibration and training. For example, peer reviewers could score practice proposals and discuss differences prior to independently scoring assigned proposals.
Metabolomics and network pharmacology-based identification of phenolic acids in Polygonatum kingianum var. grandifolium rhizomes as anti-cancer/Tumor active ingredients
Authors: Wan Xiaolin , Cui Lingjun , Xiao Qiang
Published: December 2024

Broadly targeted metabolomics techniques were used to identify phenolic acid compounds in Polygonatum kingianum var. grandifolium (PKVG) rhizomes and retrieve anti-cancer/tumor active substance bases from them. We identified potential drug targets by constructing Venn diagrams of compound and disease targets. Further, KEGG pathway analysis was performed to reveal the relevant pathways for anti-cancer/tumor activity of PKVG. Finally, we performed molecular docking to determine whether the identified proteins were targets of phenolic acid compounds from PKVG rhizome parts. The study’s results revealed 71 phenolic acid compounds in PKVG rhizomes. Among them, three active ingredients and 42 corresponding targets were closely related to the anticancer/tumor activities of PKVG rhizome site phenolic acids. We identified two essential compounds and eight important targets by constructing the compound-target pathway network. 2 essential compounds were androsin and chlorogenic acid; 8 key targets were MAPK1, EGFR, PRKCA, MAPK10, GSK3B, CASP3, CASP8, and MMP9. The analysis of the KEGG pathway identified 42 anti-cancer/tumor-related pathways. In order of degree, we performed molecular docking on two essential compounds and the top 4 targets, MAPK1, EGFR, PRKCA, and MAPK10, to further validate the network pharmacology screening results. The molecular docking results were consistent with the network pharmacology results. Therefore, we suggest that the phenolic acids in PKVG rhizomes may exert anti-cancer/tumor activity through a multi-component, multi-target, and multi-channel mechanism of action.
A previously unidentified circRNA inhibits virus replication by regulating the miR-24-3p/KEAP1 axis
Authors: Li Haimin , Du Liuyang , Li Juan , Huang Yanming , Lu Chenhe , Deng Tingjuan , Yan Yan , Jin Yulan , Wu Wei , Gu Jinyan , Zhou Jiyong
Published: December 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) exert diverse biological functions in different processes. However, the role of circRNAs during virus infection is mostly unknown. Herein, we explored the characteristics of host circRNAs using alphaherpesvirus pseudorabies virus (PRV) as a model. PRV infection upregulated the expression of circRNA circ29164, which does not encode a protein. RNA pulldown assays identified that circ29164 interacts with the microRNA ssc-miRNA-24-3p. Further analysis indicated that ssc-miR-24-3p targets the mRNA encoding kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), and circ29164 competitively binds to ssc-miR-24-3p to prevent it binding to Keap1. Apoptosis detection demonstrated that circ29164 or Keap1 overexpression, but not knockdown, induced caspase 3 activity and the release of cytochrome C from mitochondria, and inhibited PRV replication. Taken together, these data identified a previously undiscovered circRNA, circ29164, which inhibits PRV replication by competitively binding to ssc-24-3p to maintain KEAP1 levels.
Visions and Victims: Art Melodrama in the Films of Carl Th. Dreyer, Amanda Doxtater (2024)
Authors: Egholm Morten
Published: December 2024

Review of: Visions and Victims: Art Melodrama in the Films of Carl Th. Dreyer, Amanda Doxtater (2024)

Madison, WI: University of Wisconsin Press, 255 pp.,

ISBN 987-0-29934-750-5, h/bk, $79.95
O DESAFIO DA NEUTROX NO MERCADO DE HAIR CARE BRASILEIRO
Authors: Cecchini de Farias Victor , Rodrigues Netto da Costa Rocha Camilla , Guimarães Motta Rodrigo
Published: December 2024

Dilema: O caso traz o dilema da Gerente de Marketing e Inovação da Neutrox, que precisa estreitar o relacionamento com um público mais jovem, em todo o território brasileiro, na missão de rejuvenescer a marca, sem deixar de lado o caráter democrático da empresa e seu conhecimento e transposição em uma faixa etária mais elevada.
Objetivo Educacional: O caso da Neutrox tem como objetivo principal levar os estudantes a uma reflexão sobre possíveis soluções para que a marca em questão possa resolver sua problemática de ampliar as vendas através da execução no território nacional.
Contextualização: O caso retrata o percurso e o desafio profissional vivido por Stephanie Lozano, Gerente de Marketing e Inovação da Neutrox. A protagonista enfrenta um mercado altamente competitivo, que contém players globais com altíssima capacidade de investimento, mas que, ao mesmo tempo, possui boas oportunidades de atuação e rentabilidade.
Tema Principal: A investigação é uma reflexão teórica que utiliza a metodologia do caso de ensino, criando condições e situações que exijam resoluções gerenciais reais por parte dos estudantes para experenciarem as dificuldades e os desdobramentos de suas ações ao administrarem um negócio.
Público: O caso pode ser aplicado em cursos profissionalizantes/técnicos, assim como na graduação e na pós-graduação que tenham como escopo a Administração, a Comunicação e Publicidade, a Propaganda e o Marketing.
Originalidade: O trabalho evidencia como o caso proporciona ferramentas para o empreendimento de um ensino baseado na prática que favorece a melhora da relação ensino-aprendizagem, auxiliando a formação de profissionais de excelência e futuros empreendedores.
A BRICOLAGEM COMO FATOR HABILITADOR PARA INOVAÇÃO FRUGAL NO PROCESSO DE TRANSFORMAÇÃO DIGITAL EM MICROEMPRESAS
Authors: Lopes Sobrinho Júnior Max Vanderbil , Moraes dos Santos Andre , Waltrick da Silva Evertom
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: Este estudo investiga como as microempresas utilizam tecnologias digitais para criar inovações frugais capazes de habilitar a transformação digital em contextos de mercados emergentes. O objetivo inclui caracterizar essas inovações, identificar processos de conhecimento relacionados à bricolagem empreendedora e verificar como diferentes padrões de bricolagem influenciam soluções de tecnologias digitais.
Método: A pesquisa é de natureza qualitativa e exploratória, baseada em estudo de caso com dez microempresas localizadas em uma região emergente no Brasil. Foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas e análise de dados secundários. A análise foi apoiada por técnicas de categorização temática com o software Atlas.ti para sistematização, codificação e interpretação dos dados.
Resultados: As microempresas demonstraram capacidades dinâmicas de sensing, seizing e transforming, bem como capacidade absortiva, evidenciando o uso de bricolagem para adaptar tecnologias simples, como redes sociais (WhatsApp, Instagram), aplicativos de mensagens e marketplaces. Essas tecnologias foram transformadas em soluções de baixo custo para vendas, marketing, logística e relacionamento com clientes. Os processos de bricolagem envolveram imitação e personalização, combinando criatividade e eficiência para superar restrições financeiras e estruturais. Os achados destacam a inovação frugal como estratégia central para a transformação digital, promovendo competitividade e resiliência organizacional.
Originalidade e Valor: A pesquisa contribui teoricamente ao integrar conceitos de capacidades dinâmicas, bricolagem e inovação frugal, demonstrando sua aplicabilidade em contextos de recursos limitados. Praticamente, oferece insights para microempresas e formuladores de políticas sobre como superar barreiras financeiras e tecnológicas por meio de soluções acessíveis e sustentáveis.