bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impactos de projetos sociais em famílias dos meios populares: um estudo a partir de depoimentos orais
Authors: Bozzetto Adriana
Published: May 2024

A área de educação musical, há algumas décadas, ampliou suas investigações sobre ensinar e aprender música para outros espaços sociais e contextos de aprendizagem, além dos escolares, dentre os quais destacaríamos a instituição familiar como parceira nesse processo. Este artigo, mais especificamente, discute sonhos e projetos educativos familiares a partir da entrada de crianças e jovens em uma orquestra, criada como um projeto de inserção social através da música. O objetivo do estudo, baseado em uma pesquisa de doutorado, foi revelar e discutir projetos familiares enquanto projetos de vida, vinculados à formação musical das crianças e jovens que participam da referida orquestra. Projeto educativo, nesse contexto, é pensado como construção, dedicação e investimento de pais e filhos para continuarem na orquestra, um espaço muitas vezes idealizado, mas que também é marcado por regras, tensões e conflitos que impactam a vida familiar de todos os envolvidos. De abordagem qualitativa, o estudo foi construído a partir dos depoimentos orais de 27 famílias e dos 28 alunos participantes, tomando como referencial teórico estudos de Lahire (2002; 2008), Bourdieu (2007; 2008), Gayet (2004), Papadopoulos (2004) e Setton (2002; 2005; 2010; 2011). Os resultados revelaram um trabalho pedagógico, por vezes difuso e velado, de famílias que se desdobram para que os filhos possam continuar participando da orquestra. Pertencentes aos meios populares, os alunos que estão no grupo também ali permanecem por uma forte mobilização familiar, que trabalha em paralelo à socialização musical desenvolvida intensivamente na orquestra. Consequentemente, o estudo contribui para uma compreensão do impacto, e da responsabilidade, que projetos sociais têm sobre as famílias envolvidas.
Parasitic Loaded Shorting Pin Based Compact Multi-slot LoRa Antenna for Military Application
Authors: Devi Reeta , Borah Pranjal , Prasad Santosh Kumar
Published: May 2024

In this paper, work on a compact multi-slot patch antenna with a parasitic load and shorting-pin has been presented for its use in long range (LoRa) defense applications. Initially the antenna is designed and simulated using HFSS and a parametric study has been carried out for achieving an optimized antenna configuration. This is followed by the fabrication of antenna prototype based on the optimal performances obtained from the simulated results. Further, the return loss along with free space co-polar and cross-polar radiation pattern measurements has been carried out for the fabricated antenna. The experimental results show a good comparison with that of the simulated one. The proposed antenna resonates at an operating frequency of 866 MHz, providing a -10 dB bandwidth from 856 MHz-877 MHz, which covers the wireless standard used for LoRa technology. Finally, a comparative analysis of the proposed antenna with the recently reported works is presented.
Afyonkarahisar’da Leblebici Sarı es-Seyyid el-Ḥāc Aḥmed Ağa Vakfı
Authors: Savaş Saim , Çiçek Gül
Published: May 2024

Vakıf, insanların menkul veya gayr-i menkul mal ve mülkünün tamamını ya da bir kısmını dayanışma ve yardımlaşma duygusuyla Allah rızası için bağışlamasıdır. İslam’ın ilk döneminden beri varlığını gösteren vakıflar, Müslüman Türk devletlerinde gelişerek bir müessese özelliğine bürünmüş ve Osmanlı Devleti’nin teşekkülü ile birlikte tekamülün zirvesine erişerek sosyal, ekonomik ve kültürel açıdan topluma şekil veren bir kurum hüviyeti kazanmıştır. Ayrıca, vakıflar Osmanlı Devleti’nde pek çok eserin ortaya çıkmasını kolaylaştırarak geçmişin karanlıklarına ışık tutmuştur. Leblebici Sarı es-Seyyid el-Ḥāc Aḥmed Ağa Vakfı da bu anlayışın devamını temsil etmektedir. Nitekim bu prensiple meydana getirilen vakıf eserlerinden biri de 19. yüzyılın ortalarında Afyonkarahisar’da inşa edilen Leblebici Sarı es-Seyyid el-Ḥāc Aḥmed Ağa Camii ve medresesidir. Arşiv kayıtlarına göre bu yapı, klasik mimarinin yerleşik normlarını takip eden, medrese ve ilgili öğrenci hücreleriyle çevrili merkezi bir cami ile karakterize edilir. Ancak bu yapılar topluluğunda farklı tarihlerde meydana gelen yangınlar, savaşlar ve doğal afetler sebebiyle çok sayıda restorasyon gerçekleştirilmiştir. Leblebici Sarı es-Seyyid el-Ḥāc Aḥmed Ağa Camii, günümüzde Yoncaaltı Camii olarak tanınmakla birlikte 10 Eylül 1840 tarihli vakfiyede Tevfikiye Camii olarak kaydedilmiştir. İşbu çalışmada; Leblebici Sarı es-Seyyid el-Ḥāc Aḥmed Ağa vakfının sağladığı hizmetler, vakıftan kimlerin faydalandığı, vakfın gelir ve giderleri, görevliler ve ücretleri ile vakıftaki usuller ve şartların ele alınması amaçlanmaktadır.
Utilidad de la realidad virtual en la educación de enfermería
Authors: Arrieta De La Rosa Diana Carolina
Published: May 2024

Objetivo: Recopilar información sobre el uso de la realidad virtual en la enseñanza de enfermería. Material y métodos: Revisión sistemática de artículos publicados entre 2019 y 2022, en las bases de datos como Scielo, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Lilacs, Web of Science y Embase. Se seleccionaron 15 artículos después de aplicar los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Se utilizó el diagrama de flujo Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Resultados: Se encontraron en total 361 artículos, de los cuales se excluyeron 309 por duplicidad y solo resumen. Asimismo, se seleccionaron 52 para el análisis y la selección, quedando 15 manuscritos incluidos para este estudio. Conclusiones: Al revisar los artículos seleccionados, se identificó que la realidad virtual en la educación de enfermería ofrece ventajas como el desarrollo de habilidades procedimentales y fortalecimiento de competencias actitudinales, presenta una percepción positiva por los estudiantes, sin embargo, presenta algunas desventajas sobre su uso.
Evidencias psicométricas preliminares de la Escala de Adicción a Redes Sociales de Bergen en jóvenes y adultos
Authors: Vidal Arias José André , Arcata Maquera Elvis Joel
Published: May 2024

Objetivo: Evaluar las evidencias psicométricas preliminares de la Escala de Adicción a las Redes Sociales de Bergen. Material y métodos: La presente investigación adopta un enfoque cuantitativo de tipo básico con un nivel descriptivo y un diseño instrumental. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 100 participantes con edades comprendidas entre los 18 y los 40 años. El instrumento utilizado consta de 6 ítems y se empleó para evaluar estadísticamente los ítems, así como para analizar las evidencias de estructura interna mediante un Análisis Factorial Confirmatorio (AFC) y la consistencia interna a través de los coeficientes alfa de Cronbach y omega de McDonald. Resultados: En los resultados se pudo constatar que el cuestionario muestra índices de ajuste adecuados, donde: X2/gl = 1,11, RMSEA = 0,034, SRMR = 0,049, NFI = 0,981, CFI = 0,998, TLI = 0,997 y PNFI = 0,589. La confiabilidad alcanzada fue de α = 0,843 y ω = 0,845. Conclusión: Los hallazgos del presente estudio sugieren que la Escala de Adicción a las Redes Sociales de Bergen es un instrumento válido y fiable para medir comportamientos adictivos en el ámbito digital.
Ronald Dworkin’in Uluslararası Hukuk Teorisi
Authors: Demirhan Eray Sinan
Published: May 2024

Son otuz yılda hukuk teorisi alanının belki de en çok tartışılan ismi olan ama yaşamında uluslararası hukuk alanında neredeyse hiçbir eser vermeyen ve hatta çalışmalarında da çok sınırlı bir şekilde bu alandan bahseden Dworkin’in, ölümünden sonra yayımlanan “A New Philosophy for International Law” isimli eseri, çok büyük bir sürpriz olarak karşılanmıştır. Doğrudan uluslararası hukuku ilgilendiren ilk ve tek çalışmasında Dworkin ilk olarak uluslararası hukuk disiplininin varlığına yönelik eski bir tartışmayı -Uluslararası hukuk, hukuk mudur?- hatırlatarak başlar. Yazar 20. Yüzyılın ortalarından itibaren uluslararası hukuk disiplininin en önemli tartışmalarından birisinin uluslararası hukukun hukuki niteliği üzerine şekillendiğini belirtir. Devamında ise her ne kadar günümüzde uluslararası hukukun varlığı üzerine ciddi bir uzlaşı oluşsa da Dworkin’e göre uluslararası hukukun kaynakları ve kurallarının yorumlanması açısından yukarıdaki soru hala geçerliliğini ve önemini koruyor. Yazar böylelikle uluslararası hukukun, doğasını ve hukuki niteliğini tekrar tartışmaya açar. Bu çalışma, Dworkin’in uluslararası hukuk teorisi için önerdiği argümanları “A New Philosophy for International Law” çalışmasıyla sınırlı kalmamak üzere eleştirel bir şekilde tartışmayı amaçlamaktadır.
Use of caffeine for managing apneia of premature
Authors: Jucá Neto José de Ribamar Barroso , Brasil Lívia Fontelles , Mendonça Letícia Martins de , Mapurunga Thiago Rocha , Souza Emanuelle Cordova de , Morais Pedro Iughetti , Mapurunga Ângela Rocha
Published: May 2024

Apnea of prematurity is a common diagnosis in neonatal intensive care units, especially in preterm patients under 35 weeks or patients born with low birth weight (<1500g). From this perspective, the use of caffeine citrate has short and long-term benefits in this pathology, in addition to reducing the incidence of complications. Methodology: A narrative review of the literature was carried out using the PUBMED database, using the following keywords: “Apnea Prematurity”, “Caffeine” and “Treatment”, with a 6-year filter, analyzing 164 articles, of which only 34 were included and 130 were excluded. Results and Discussion: Apnea of prematurity is a common pathology in preterm and extremely preterm infants, with an incidence of 10% of newborns after 34 weeks and 20-85% of newborns born between 30-34 weeks. The pathophysiology of the disease is explained by the immaturity of the central nervous system in maintaining respiratory drive, in addition to impaired sensitivity in response to chemoreceptors and difficulty in maintaining REM sleep, in addition to the chronic losses inherent to chronic hypoxia. Methylxanthines, the active ingredient in caffeine, have the activation mechanism of inhibiting adenosine A1 and A2 receptors coupled to G protein. The recommended initial dose for therapy is 10 mg/kg for apnea of prematurity, but it must be monitored with concentrations serum levels of the drug to a safe therapeutic range, in addition to monitoring side effects in view of the patient's clinical impairment. The main signs of side effects from the use of caffeine are tachycardia, hyperglycemia, reduced growth rate, jaundice, irritability, agitation and convulsions. Conclusion: Apnea of prematurity is a very prevalent pathology in preterm newborns and its therapeutic possibility must be taken into account in view of its possible short and long-term complications, since the use of methylxanthines has different evidence of clinical improvement.
Fatores determinantes e consequentes da suspensão dos procedimentos cirúrgicos eletivos: Revisão integrativa
Authors: Costa Nayara Lorrane Ribeiro , Santos Paula Wendy Andrade dos , Corgozinho Marcelo Moreira
Published: May 2024

Objetivo: identificar as principais causas e consequências da suspensão dos procedimentos cirúrgicos eletivos. Métodos: trata-se de uma revisão integrativa que seguiu recomendações adaptadas do Preferred Reporting Itens for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. A partir do Portal da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, foram eleitas as bases da Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde e Base de Dados de Enfermagem, com os operadores booleanos: “cancelamento”, “suspensão”, “cirurgia” – entre 2013 a 2023. Resultados: destacaram-se duas categorias temáticas principais – a) causas da suspensão de cirurgias eletivas, obtendo duas subcategorias os fatores intrínsecos e os fatores extrínsecos ao paciente cirúrgico; e b) repercussões da suspensão de cirurgias eletivas. Conclusão: os principais motivos para a suspensão das cirurgias foram as causas clínicas do paciente, a falta de leitos e de recursos materiais. Como consequências, observou-se o abalo psicológico do paciente e seus familiares e o aumento dos gastos hospitalares. É importante estabelecer intervenções durante a fase do planejamento do procedimento cirúrgico, a fim de atenuar os desfechos gerados por essas suspensões.
Momordica charantia e regulação metabólica no tratamento integrativo complementar da Diabetes Mellitus: Uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Morais Emanuel Miguel , Dourado Gabriel Augusto do Nascimento de Lucena , França Gustavo Henrique de Freitas , Silva Izabella Caroline Vieira da , Alexandre Laura Guilhermina Cavalcante , Espíndola Luis Eduardo de , Cabral Maria Emanuelly do Nascimento , Mendonça Pedro Antônio Ferreira de , Vasconcelos Amanda Soares de
Published: May 2024

A Diabetes Mellitus é uma doença crônica não transmissível manifestada, sobretudo, pela elevação da glicemia sérica, e seu tratamento consiste em alterações no estilo de vida aliadas às terapias farmacológicas. Nessa perspectiva, tratamentos integrativos complementares têm sido avaliados como estratégias complementares no controle glicêmico, destacando-se a Momordica charantia pelos seus efeitos hipoglicemiantes. Posto isso, o presente estudo objetivou identificar os efeitos da Momordica charantia atrelados à hipoglicemia e à regulação metabólica sistêmica como terapia complementar adjuvante para a Diabetes Mellitus. A revisão foi executada nas bases de dados PubMed, Medline e ScienceDirect com o uso dos DeCS: “Momordica charantia” e “Diabetes Mellitus”, interligados pelo operador booleano “AND”, resultando em 25 artigos para a análise. Os trabalhos referem resultados satisfatórios acerca dos efeitos hipoglicemiantes da Momordica charantia por intermédio de mecanismos variados, como o estímulo ao uso da glicose, ativação de GLP-1, supressão de enzimas envolvidas em vias gliconeogênicas, inibição da captação intestinal, bem como melhoria da sensibilidade à insulina e diminuição do acúmulo de lipídios no fígado. Além do seu efeito hipoglicemiante, pesquisas realizadas com camundongos diabéticos também relatam possíveis benefícios renais, hepáticos e anti-inflamatórios. Outrossim, observou-se que a Momordica charantia possui compostos que auxiliam o equilíbrio do metabolismo e pode ser considerada como adjuvante terapêutico da Diabetes Mellitus. Todavia, ainda são necessários mais estudos para identificar com maior precisão os componentes do fitoterápico e os efeitos colaterais do seu uso.
Coinfecções em tempos de pandemia: Navegando pelos impactos conjugados de COVID-19 e arboviroses
Authors: Souza Pedro César de , Leite Allana Fernanda de Araújo Barroso , Rodrigues Carla Fernanda Couto
Published: May 2024

Este artigo investiga a intersecção entre a pandemia de COVID-19 e arboviroses, como dengue e Chikungunya, explorando os impactos conjugados e as respostas de saúde pública. O objetivo central é analisar como a pandemia influenciou a epidemiologia das arboviroses, destacando as dificuldades de diagnóstico em coinfecções e a eficácia das medidas de saúde pública. Utilizamos uma metodologia de revisão integrativa, examinando estudos publicados entre 2019 e 2024 que discutiram a interação entre COVID-19 e arboviroses, as mudanças nos sistemas de saúde, e o impacto das intervenções não farmacológicas durante o período de pandemia. Os resultados indicam que as medidas de isolamento social para controlar a COVID-19 tiveram efeitos inadvertidos na redução da transmissão de arboviroses. Além disso, a pandemia desafiou os sistemas de saúde, redirecionando recursos que agravaram a gestão de arboviroses, mas também ofereceu uma oportunidade para reformas que poderiam fortalecer a resposta a múltiplas epidemias. A discussão enfatiza a necessidade de diagnósticos precisos para evitar erros no tratamento de coinfecções e sugere que a experiência da pandemia pode ser um catalisador para a integração de estratégias de saúde mais robustas. Concluímos que uma abordagem de saúde pública integrada e adaptável é essencial para lidar com a coexistência de múltiplas ameaças sanitárias, garantindo uma preparação adequada para futuras crises epidemiológicas.
Avaliação ecotoxicológica de anti-inflamatórios e paracetamol em Chlorella vulgaris
Authors: Castro Bárbara Letícia Ribeiro de , Faustino Silvia Maria Mathes
Published: May 2024

Atualmente, grande quantidade de substâncias são encontradas no ambiente aquático, sendo os fármacos, principalmente a classe dos anti-inflamatórios, encontrados neste meio. Em virtude da grande quantidade de fármacos com potencial tóxico para os organismos aquáticos se faz necessário que estudos ecotoxicológicos sejam realizados para avaliar os impactos dessas substâncias. O objetivo deste trabalho visou avaliar o crescimento da alga verde Chlorella vulgaris em exposição a anti-inflamatórios e ao paracetamol em diferentes concentrações, observando o comportamento do crescimento algal em exposição aguda de 5 dias e crônica de 30 dias. A avaliação do crescimento foi realizada através da contagem direta por microscopia. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram que à exposição aguda ao Paracetamol nas diferentes concentrações, apresentou inibição do crescimento de C. vulgaris com resultados estatisticamente significativos com efeito em 50% dos organismos expostos nas condições testadas, indicando efeito negativo sobre as microalgas. Em relação a exposição crônica, Nimesulida na concentração NM3 ocasionou o crescimento celular de C. vulgaris superior ao controle em 21,16% e o Paracetamol nas concentrações P2 e P3, apresentou inibição do crescimento de C. vulgaris em 30,88% e 31,54%, respectivamente, efeitos com resultados que apresentaram significância estatística, indicando efeito negativo sobre as microalgas. Para os resultados obtidos sem significância estatística nas exposições aguda e crônica aos medicamentos, não se descarta o potencial tóxico ao organismo testado, sendo necessário que mais estudos com diferentes condições de exposição sejam realizados.
An Exploration of Blended Teaching Model for College English Vocabulary Based on the “VocabGo” Platform
Authors:   Lecturer, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, China., Lu Yaqin
Published: May 2024

With the rapid development of information technology in foreign language teaching, the blended teaching model that integrates online learning with offline classrooms has become the typical trend of college English teaching. Based on the analysis of the existing problems in vocabulary learning in current traditional teaching and the platform of “VocabGo”, this study explores a blended teaching model that includes vocabulary preview before class, vocabulary testing during class, and consolidation and improvement after class. This model expands the content of vocabulary teaching, emphasizes student-centeredness, and is conducive to the cultivation of students’ learning interest and self-learning ability, which has significant practical implications for the reform of college English teaching. Keywords: College, English Vocabulary, Blended Teaching, VocabGo.
Diel movements and space use of Lutjanus analis at a spawning aggregation site, examined to evaluate the efficacy of a seasonal closed area for management
Authors: Heidmann SL , Nemeth RS , Biggs CR , Kadison E , Kojis BL
Published: May 2024

Designing place-based management for species that reproduce in transient fish spawning aggregations (FSAs) requires knowledge of movements and space use around aggregation sites. We examined the efficacy of the Mutton Snapper Seasonal Closed Area (MSSCA) in St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands, in protecting Lutjanus analis from fishing during the spawning season. We used acoustic telemetry to identify the spatial and temporal patterns of movement of 24 mutton snappers over 3 spawning seasons. L. analis aggregated from March to July with peak abundance during April, May, and June. Unlike its congeners, which spawn at sunset, L. analis spawns in the early afternoon. We were able to determine that L. analis used the MSSCA as a staging area during nighttime hours but migrated daily outside the MSSCA for spawning. We also used data from an acoustic Doppler current profiler to examine the relationship between fish movements and coastal current patterns. Fish migrated west in the morning with the prevailing current, occupied the presumed spawning site at slack tide, and then migrated east, again with the prevailing current, back to the MSSCA. We noted that chronic poaching was highly prevalent during the spawning season, reducing the effectiveness of the MSSCA and market closure. In light of our findings, to improve management of the L. analis FSA, we recommend re-evaluating the MSSCA boundaries and timing, improving enforcement, and engaging fishers and the community through co-management efforts. Pro-active management is of particular importance, given that this may be the only L. analis FSA site on St. Croix.
Evaluation of the Chesapeake Bay blue crab sanctuary through habitat suitability
Authors: Ralph GM , Gartland J , Latour RJ
Published: May 2024

Dynamic fisheries management requires continual evaluation of management strategies. Despite the implementation of various spatiotemporal harvest and gear restrictions over the past 2 decades, the Chesapeake Bay blue crab Callinectes sapidus population has not responded consistently. To determine whether environmental factors may be impacting the efficacy of a seasonal blue crab sanctuary, a generalized additive modeling approach was applied to long-term (2002-2018) bottom trawl survey data to develop an ecological niche model (ENM) for mature female blue crabs in the mainstem of the Bay throughout the primary spawning season (May-September). Salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, depth, and sediment type were significant predictors of crab relative abundance. The ENM was then coupled with hindcast estimates of environmental covariates from a high-resolution hydrodynamic-biogeochemical model to develop habitat suitability indices (HSIs). This habitat-based approach was compared with a model-based index of abundance and a species distribution model (SDM). HSI and the model-based index were generally similar, exhibiting no clear trends through time, though variability was lower in the HSI. Clear seasonal patterns in spatial distribution were evident, with highest relative abundances occurring in the lower bay in July and September, corresponding to the movement of females towards higher-salinity waters to spawn. The sanctuary protected 46-59% of the good mainstem habitat each year and generally overperformed in years when bay-wide HSI was low. These results contribute to our knowledge of mature female blue crab ecology during migration and spawning and provide further support for the importance of the sanctuary for mature female blue crabs.
MODEL COOPERATIVE INTEGRATEDREADING AND COMPOSITION (CIRC) SEBAGAI SOLUSI UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN MEMBACA PEMAHAMAN BAHASA INDONESIA SISWA SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Budianti Yudi , Febriyantih Melinda
Published: May 2024

Membaca pemahaman adalah suatu tahap proses membaca bagi siswa Sekolah Dasar kelas atas dengan memahami seluruh isi bacaan. permasalahan pada Siswa Sekolah Dasar dalam membaca pemahaman siswa Sekolah Dasar pada pelajaran Bahasa Indonesia. Model Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition(CIRC). Hasil dengan menggunakan model Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition (CIRC) siswa diyakini dapat: 1) siswa mampu menemukan gagasanutama pada setiap paragraf 2) siswa mampu menemukan makna dari kata-kata sulit dan membuat kalimat dari kata-kata sulit tersebut. 3) siswa mampu untuk menjawab pertanyaan secara komperhensif dari bahan bacaan. 4) siswa mampu untuk menceritakan kembali bahan bacaaan dengan kalimat bahasa sendiri. 5) siswa mampu untuk menyimpulkan bahan bacaan.
Different narcotic gases and concentrations for immobilization of ostrich embryos for in-ovo imaging
Authors: Perkas O. , Schmidt A. , Kuehnel C. , Greiser J. , Hermeyer H. , Klingner C. , Freesmeyer M. , Winkens T.
Published: May 2024

In-ovo imaging using avian eggs has been described as a potential alternative to animal testing using rodents. However, imaging studies are hampered by embryonal motion producing artifacts. This study aims at systematically comparing isoflurane, desflurane and sevoflurane in three different concentrations in ostrich embryos. Biomagnetic signals of ostrich embryos were recorded analyzing cardiac action and motion. Ten groups comprising eight ostrich embryos each were investigated: Control, isoflurane (2%, 4%, and 6%), desflurane (6%, 12%, and 18%) and sevoflurane (3%, 5%, and 8%). Each ostrich egg was exposed to the same narcotic gas and concentration on development day (DD) 31 and 34. Narcotic gas exposure was upheld for 90 min and embryos were monitored for additional 75 min. Toxicity was evaluated by verifying embryo viability 24 h after the experiments. Initial heart rate of mean 148 beats/min (DD 31) and 136 beats/min (DD 34) decreased over time by 44–48 beats/minute. No significant differences were observed between groups. All narcotic gases led to distinct movement reduction after mean 8 min. Embryos exposed to desflurane 6% showed residual movements. Isoflurane 6% and sevoflurane 8% produced motion-free time intervals of mean 70 min after discontinuation of narcotic gas exposure. Only one embryo death occurred after narcotic gas exposure with desflurane 6%. This study shows that isoflurane, desflurane and sevoflurane are suitable for ostrich embryo immobilization, which is a prerequisite for motion-artifact free imaging. Application of isoflurane 6% and sevoflurane 8% is a) safe as no embryonal deaths occurred after exposure and b) effective as immobilization was observed for approx. 70 min after the end of narcotic gas exposure. These results should be interpreted with caution regarding transferability to other avian species as differences in embryo size and incubation duration exist.
Soft tissue material properties based on human abdominal in vivo macro-indenter measurements
Authors: Remus Robin , Sure Christian , Selkmann Sascha , Uttich Eike , Bender Beate
Published: May 2024

Simulations of human-technology interaction in the context of product development require comprehensive knowledge of biomechanical in vivo behavior. To obtain this knowledge for the abdomen, we measured the continuous mechanical responses of the abdominal soft tissue of ten healthy participants in different lying positions anteriorly, laterally, and posteriorly under local compression depths of up to 30 mm. An experimental setup consisting of a mechatronic indenter with hemispherical tip and two time-of-flight (ToF) sensors for optical 3D displacement measurement of the surface was developed for this purpose. To account for the impact of muscle tone, experiments were conducted with both controlled activation and relaxation of the trunk muscles. Surface electromyography (sEMG) was used to monitor muscle activation levels. The obtained data sets comprise the continuous force-displacement data of six abdominal measurement regions, each synchronized with the local surface displacements resulting from the macro-indentation, and the bipolar sEMG signals at three key trunk muscles. We used inverse finite element analysis (FEA), to derive sets of nonlinear material parameters that numerically approximate the experimentally determined soft tissue behaviors. The physiological standard values obtained for all participants after data processing served as reference data. The mean stiffness of the abdomen was significantly different when the trunk muscles were activated or relaxed. No significant differences were found between the anterior-lateral measurement regions, with exception of those centered on the linea alba and centered on the muscle belly of the rectus abdominis below the intertubercular plane. The shapes and areas of deformation of the skin depended on the region and muscle activity. Using the hyperelastic Ogden model, we identified unique material parameter sets for all regions. Our findings confirmed that, in addition to the indenter force-displacement data, knowledge about tissue deformation is necessary to reliably determine unique material parameter sets using inverse FEA. The presented results can be used for finite element (FE) models of the abdomen, for example, in the context of orthopedic or biomedical product developments.
Taxonomy and systematics of the Neotropical primates: a review and update
Authors: Rylands Anthony B. , Mittermeier Russell A.
Published: May 2024

The database of the IUCN SSC Primate Specialist Group currently (December 2023) registers 218 species and subspecies of Neotropical primates in 24 genera and five families. In the early 1960s, the diversity of Neotropical primates was estimated to be around 200 species and subspecies. From then, through the 1970s to the mid-1990s, however, the perception of the region’s primate diversity dropped, and reached an all-time low at 83 species and subspecies in 1980 (A World List of Mammalian Species, G. B. Corbet and J. E. Hill, British Museum (Natural History), Comstock Publishing, Cornell University Press, London and Ithaca). Interest in taxonomy and primate field research in the Neotropics was subdued up to the late 1970s. Change was sparked by the burgeoning capture of primates for biomedical research in the 1950s and 1960s, and the increasing destruction of the Amazon rainforests from the late 1970s. The numbers increased, at first slowly, but then, in 1995, they leapt back to the 200s in anticipation of a book by C. P. Groves (2001, Primate Taxonomy, Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, DC). The species’ counts (not including subspecies) rose due to the adoption of the Phylogenetic Species Concept over the Biological Species Concept, the former favoring the category of species over subspecies. In this article, we discuss the changes in species and subspecies numbers in the classification of the Neotropical primates, and report on the taxonomic changes resulting from taxonomic research ongoing since 2012. We emphasize the importance of taxonomic research for an understanding of the diversity of primates, and for conservation planning, not least in identifying the populations that are threatened.
Effect of sustained decreases in sedentary time and increases in physical activity on liver enzymes and indices in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Haxhi Jonida , Vitale Martina , Mattia Lorenza , Giuliani Chiara , Sacchetti Massimo , Orlando Giorgio , Iacobini Carla , Menini Stefano , Zanuso Silvano , Nicolucci Antonio , Balducci Stefano , Pugliese Giuseppe
Published: May 2024

Background

Current guidelines for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) recommend high volumes and/or intensities of physical activity (PA), the achievement of which generally requires participation in supervised exercise training programs that however are difficult to implement in routine clinical practice. Conversely, counselling interventions may be more suitable, but result in only modest increases in moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA). This study assessed whether a counseling intervention for increasing PA and decreasing sedentary time (SED-time) is effective in improving NAFLD markers in people with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Three-hundred physically inactive and sedentary patients were randomized 1:1 to receive one-month theoretical and practical counseling once-a-year (intervention group) or standard care (control group) for 3 years. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (γGT) levels were measured and fatty liver index (FLI), hepatic steatosis index (HSI), and visceral adiposity index (VAI) were calculated. Total PA volume, light-intensity PA (LPA), moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA), and SED-time were objectively measured by an accelerometer.

Results

Throughout the 3-year period, NAFLD markers did not change in the control group, whereas ALT, γGT, FLI, and HSI decreased in the intervention group, with significant between-group differences, despite modest MVPA increases, which however were associated with larger decrements in SED-time and reciprocal increments in LPA. Mean changes in NAFLD markers varied according to quartiles of (and correlated with) changes in MVPA (all markers) and SED-time, LPA, and PA volume (ALT, γGT, and HSI). Mean changes in MVPA or PA volume were independent predictors of changes in NAFLD markers. When included in the models, change in cardiorespiratory fitness and lower body muscle strength were independently associated with some NAFLD markers.

Conclusion

A behavior change involving all domains of PA lifestyle, even if insufficient to achieve the recommended MVPA target, may provide beneficial effects on NAFLD markers in people with type 2 diabetes.
Response of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in leaves of different life forms to altitude and soil factors in Tianshan wild fruit forest
Authors: Jia Xiande , Wu Limei , Ren Jiamin , Peng Xinyang , Lv Haiying
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The ecological stoichiometric ratio of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus is an important index to understand the utilization and distribution of plant nutrients.

Method

To explore how leaf carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus contents, along with the stoichiometric ratio of different life forms of plants, respond to variations in altitude and soil physical and chemical properties, leaves and soil samples were collected from different life forms of plants at different altitudes (1,100~1,700 m) within the Guozigou region of the forest. Subsequently, the contents and ratios of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in the leaves, as well as the physicochemical properties of the soil, were determined.

Results

The results showed the following: (1) The three life forms of plants in the study area showed that the coefficient of variation of leaf carbon content was the smallest and the distribution was the most stable, while the coefficient of variation of carbon–nitrogen ratio was the largest. (2) Altitude had a significant effect on the carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus contents of different life form of plants, among which the leaf nitrogen content of trees, shrubs, and herbs increased significantly with altitude (p < 0.01), the leaf phosphorus content of trees increased significantly with altitude (p < 0.01), and the leaf C:N of the three life form of plants decreased significantly with altitude (p < 0.01). The C:P of the arbor decreased significantly with altitude (p < 0.05), and the N:P of shrub and herb leaves increased significantly with altitude (p < 0.01). (3) Soil organic carbon and soil moisture content were the main environmental factors affecting the changes of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in leaves of arbors, and nitrate nitrogen was the main environmental factor affecting the changes of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in leaves of shrubs. Available phosphorus affected the changes of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in the leaves of herbaceous plants.

Discussion

The results provide new insights into community-level biogeographical patterns and potential factors of leaf stoichiometry among plant life forms.
Settlement ecology of Bronze Age Transylvania
Authors: Quinn Colin P.
Published: May 2024

The Bronze Age was a time of technological, socioeconomic, and political transformation in Europe. Since Bronze Age socioeconomic institutions were rooted in the landscape, they can be investigated using a settlement ecology approach to how people positioned themselves relative to the environment and each other. Transylvania is home to a rare combination of mineral resources, trade infrastructures, and productive agropastoral land, all of which were critical to Bronze Age societies. This study combines size-and rank-size analyses to suggest that there were several shifts in how people positioned themselves across settlements in Transylvania during the Bronze Age. This research contributes to a broader understanding of the factors that inform where people choose to settle down and the consequences those decisions have on the development of social, economic, and political institutions.
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells in peripheral blood as predictive biomarkers in patients with solid tumors undergoing immune checkpoint therapy: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Möller Maximilian , Orth Vanessa , Umansky Viktor , Hetjens Svetlana , Braun Volker , Reißfelder Christoph , Hardt Julia , Seyfried Steffen
Published: May 2024

Background

Immunotherapeutic approaches, including immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy, are increasingly recognized for their potential. Despite notable successes, patient responses to these treatments vary significantly. The absence of reliable predictive and prognostic biomarkers hampers the ability to foresee outcomes. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the predictive significance of circulating myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) in patients with solid tumors undergoing ICI therapy, focusing on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed across PubMed and EMBASE from January 2007 to November 2023, utilizing keywords related to MDSC and ICI. We extracted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) directly from the publications or calculated them based on the reported data. A hazard ratio greater than 1 indicated a beneficial effect of low MDSC levels. We assessed heterogeneity and effect size through subgroup analyses.

Results

Our search yielded 4,023 articles, of which 17 studies involving 1,035 patients were included. The analysis revealed that patients with lower levels of circulating MDSC experienced significantly improved OS (HR=2.13 [95% CI 1.51–2.99]) and PFS (HR=1.87 [95% CI 1.29–2.72]) in response to ICI therapy. Notably, heterogeneity across these outcomes was primarily attributed to differences in polymorphonuclear MDSC (PMN-MDSC) subpopulations and varying cutoff methodologies used in the studies. The monocytic MDSC (M-MDSC) subpopulation emerged as a consistent and significant prognostic marker across various subgroup analyses, including ethnicity, tumor type, ICI target, sample size, and cutoff methodology.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that standardized assessment of MDSC, particularly M-MDSC, should be integral to ICI therapy strategies. These cells hold the promise of identifying patients at risk of poor response to ICI therapy, enabling tailored treatment approaches. Further research focusing on the standardization of markers and validation of cutoff methods is crucial for integrating MDSC into clinical practice.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023420095, identifier CRD42023420095.
Effects of temperature on the growth, total lipid content and fatty acid composition of Skeletonema dohrnii
Authors: Shang Xiaomei , Yang Yaning , Zan Yongling , Sun Zhenwei , Lu Zhengyi , Sun Jun
Published: May 2024

The potential of diatoms as aquatic bait, attribute to their abundance in highly unsaturated fatty acids, has been extensively studied. Temperature plays a crucial role in the synthesis of these fatty acids. This study specifically investigated the impact of temperature on the growth, total lipid content, and fatty acid composition of Skeletonema dohrnii, a planktonic diatom commonly associated with red tides and water blooms in China. The aim is to evaluate its suitability as an aquatic bait and provide insights for large-scale factory farming. Results indicated that the highest biomass and maximum growth rate occurred at 28°C, with no significant deviation from the control group at 25°C. At 28°C and 15°C, there was a significant increase in the total lipid content and the total fatty acid content, with a more pronounced effect at 15°C. At 28°C, EPA and DHA content measured at 0.97 ± 0.01 mg.DW.L-1 and 0.264 ± 0.01 mg.DW.L-1 respectively, surpass those at 15°C due to lower biomass. Conversely, at 15°C, substantial synthesis of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, with EPA constituting up to 32.24 ± 0.24% of the total fatty acids, is observed. Modulating the temperature could optimize the utilization of S. dohrnii as an aquatic feed source. These findings underscore the potential of S. dohrnii as a high-quality aquafeed and lay the groundwork for its success in ocean warming scenarios.
Utilizing marine algal metabolites to fight neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Naik Bindu , Richa Shruti , Bharadwaj Shivangi , Mishra Sadhna , Kumar Vijay , Kumar Vivek , Saris Per Erik Joakim , Gupta Arun Kumar , Mishra Ritesh , Gupta Uttam , Rustagi Sarvesh , Preet Manpreet Singh
Published: May 2024

Marine algae are thought to be a source of various metabolites that have a wide range of positive effects on human health. The pharmacological properties of algal metabolites, including their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cholesterol homeostasis, protein clearance, and anti-amyloidergic effects, lend credence to their protective efficacy against oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired proteostasis, all of which are involved in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders. There are currently no clinical trials on the effects of marine algae on neuroinflammation; however, considering the significant biological activities that have been established by in vitro and animal research, we expect that there will be clinical trials on this topic in the not-too-distant future. The most recent and important findings on the potentially neuroprotective effects of the anti-inflammatory properties of marine algae were chosen for this study. Next, we conducted a literature review on the neuroprotective potential of algal compounds, along with the underlying pharmacological mechanism, and finally, we evaluated recent advances in therapeutics.
Non-native fish species in the North Aegean Sea: a review of their distributions integrating unpublished fisheries data
Authors: Evangelopoulos Athanasios , Karampetsis Dimitrios , Christidis Aris , Gubili Chrysoula , Sapounidis Argyrios , Adamidou Angeliki , Kamidis Nikolaos , Koutrakis Emmanouil
Published: May 2024

Fisheries-dependent data and information gathered through fisheries-related scientific surveys can significantly contribute to research on the patterns and processes underlying marine biological invasions and their interactions with fisheries. This study presents an overview of the presence of non-native fish species in the North Aegean Sea, offering insights into their distributions and impact on fisheries. The findings are based on a comprehensive compilation of commercial fisheries-dependent and scientific survey data collected in Greece from 2016 to 2023, along with a systematic review of the international scientific literature. The study resulted in the documentation of the presence of 37 non-native fish species, including several recorded for the first time in the area. The results suggest that non-native fish species invasions in the North Aegean Sea are dynamic. Although most species were classified as casual, and the frequencies of occurrence as well as the quantities in commercial fisheries catches of established species are smaller than in the South Aegean Sea, species introductions and the extent of occurrence and area of occupancy of several species have been increasing since the 2000s. The significance of non-native fish species is becoming increasingly relevant to commercial fisheries in the study area. This is particularly evident in the Northeastern Aegean Sea, where catches of non-native species are on the rise, and new species with potential commercial value have emerged in recent years.
The effectiveness of dexmedetomidine for preventing acute kidney injury after surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Jing , Tang Ming-hao , Shen Qi-hong , Xu Ding-chao
Published: May 2024

Background

Postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious and distressing complication connected to various adverse outcomes following the surgical operation. Controversy remains regarding the dexmedetomidine’s preventive impact on postoperative AKI. Therefore, this investigation aims to explore the efficiency and safety of dexmedetomidine in preventing AKI after surgical operation.

Methods

We systematically searched electronic databases such as PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library to detect eligible randomized controlled studies that used dexmedetomidine for the prevention of AKI following operation up to April 30, 2023. The main outcome evaluated was AKI incidence. The evidence quality was assessed employing the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation.

Results

The meta-analysis included 25 trials, including 3,997 individuals. Of these, 2,028 were in the dexmedetomidine group, and 1,969 were in the control group. The result showed that patients administered dexmedetomidine significantly decreased the AKI incidence following surgical operation in contrast to the control group (risk ratio, 0.60; 95% confidence intervals, 0.45–0.78; p < 0.05; I2 = 46%). In addition, dexmedetomidine decreased the period of hospitalization in both the intensive care unit (ICU) and the hospital while also reducing postoperative delirium (POD) occurrence. However, dexmedetomidine elevated the incidence of bradycardia but did not have a significant impact on other indicators.

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis indicates that the dexmedetomidine treatment reduces the postoperative AKI and POD risk while also shortening the time of hospitalization in the ICU and hospital. However, it is connected to an increased bradycardia risk.
Advances in the mechanism of metformin with wide-ranging effects on regulation of the intestinal microbiota
Authors: Wang Yue , Jia Xianxian , Cong Bin
Published: May 2024

Metformin is of great focus because of its high safety, low side effects, and various effects other than lowering blood sugar, such as anti-inflammation, anti-tumor, and anti-aging. Studies have shown that metformin has a modulating effect on the composition and function of the intestinal microbiota other than acting on the liver. However, the composition of microbiota is complex and varies to some extent between species and individuals, and the experimental design of each study is also different. Multiple factors present a major obstacle to better comprehending the effects of metformin on the gut microbiota. This paper reviews the regulatory effects of metformin on the gut microbiota, such as increasing the abundance of genus Akkermansia, enriching short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacterial genus, and regulating gene expression of certain genera. The intestinal microbiota is a large and vital ecosystem in the human body and is considered to be the equivalent of an “organ” of the human body, which is highly relevant to human health and disease status. There are a lot of evidences that the gut microbiota is responsible for metformin’s widespread effects. However, there are only a few systematic studies on this mechanism, and the specific mechanism is still unclear. This paper aims to summarize the possible mechanism of metformin in relation to gut microbiota.