bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunosuppression in stem cell clinical trials of neural and retinal cell types: A systematic review
Authors: Gowrishankar Shravan , Smith Matthew E. , Creber Nathan , Muzaffar Jameel , Borsetto Daniele
Published: July 2024

Background

Pharmacologic immunosuppression regimes are commonly employed in stem cell clinical trials to mitigate host immune rejection and promote survival and viability of transplanted cells. Immunosuppression and cell survival has been extensively studied in retinal and spinal tissues. The applicability of stem cell therapy is rapidly expanding to other sensory organs such as the ear and hearing. As regenerative therapy is directed to new areas, a greater understanding of immunosuppression strategies and their efficacy is required to facilitate translation to organ-specific biologic microenvironments.

Objective

This systematic review appraises the current literature regarding immunosuppression strategies employed in stem cell trials of retinal and neural cells.

Methods

This systematic review was performed in line with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Inclusion criteria included studies presenting data on neural or retinal cells as part of an in-human clinical trial that detailed the immunosuppression regime used. Exclusion criteria included non-English language studies, animal studies, review articles, case reports, editorials, and letters. The databases Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to February 2024. Risk of bias was evaluated using the ROBINS-I tool.

Results

Eighteen articles fit the inclusion criteria. Nine articles concerned retinal cells, 5 concerned spinal cord injury, and 4 concerned amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. A multi-drug and short-term immunosuppression regime were commonly employed in the identified studies. Detected immune responses in treated patients were rare. Common immunosuppression paradigms included tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil and tapering doses of steroids. Local immunosuppression with steroids was employed in some studies concerning retinal diseases.

Discussion

A short-term course of systemic immunosuppression seemed efficacious for most included studies, with some showing grafted cells viable months to years after immunosuppression had stopped. Longer-term follow-up is required to see if this remains the case. Side effects related to immunosuppression were uncommon.
A compact co-aperture dual-sense circularly polarized antenna for simultaneous transmit and receive systems
Authors: Dao-Duc Tan , Tran-Viet Duc-Nguyen , Nguyen Tien Dat , Nguyen Quoc Dinh , The-Lam Nguyen Tung , Tran-Huy Hung
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a compact design of dual-sense circularly polarized (CP) antenna for simultaneous transmit (Tx) and receive (Rx) communication systems. The primary radiating aperture of the proposed antenna is a 2 × 2 unit-cell metasurface (MS). The MS is excited by the asymmetric patch in the center, which acts as the CP source of the whole antenna structure. By properly tuning the feeding positions, dual-sense CP with high isolation can be achieved. For verification, an antenna prototype with compact dimensions of 0.36λ × 0.36λ × 0.02λ (λ is the free-space wavelength at the center operating frequency) is fabricated and measured. The measured operating bandwidth is 1.6% (2.45–2.49 GHz), in which the reflection and transmission coefficients are less than—10 dB and the axial ratio is lower than 3 dB. Within this band, the maximum isolation value is 39 dB, and the peak gain is 5.7 dBi.
Exploring the priorities of ageing populations in Pakistan, comparing views of older people in Karachi City and Thatta
Authors: Usmani Bilal Ahmed , Lakhdir Maryam Pyar Ali , Sameen Sonia , Batool Saila , Odland Maria Lisa , Goodman-Palmer Dina , Agyapong-Badu Sandra , Hirschhorn Lisa R. , Greig Carolyn , Davies Justine
Published: July 2024

As a lower middle-income country, Pakistan faces multiple issues that influence the course of healthy ageing. Although there is some understanding of these issues and the objective health outcomes of people in Pakistan, there is less knowledge on the perceptions, experiences, and priorities of the ageing population and their caretakers (hereafter, “stakeholders”). The aim of the study was to identify the needs and priorities of older adults and stakeholders across both urban and rural locations. We sought to explore the views of two groups of people, older adults and stakeholders on topics including the definition of ageing as well as areas of importance, services available, and barriers to older people living well. Two-day workshops were conducted in one rural city, Thatta and one urban city, Karachi. The workshops were designed using the Nominal Group Technique, which included plenary and roundtable discussions. The responses were ranked through rounds of voting and a consensus priority list was obtained for each topic and group. Responses were categorized using the socio-ecological framework. Responses were compared between stakeholders and older people and between different geographical areas. 24 urban and 26 rural individuals aged over 60 years and 24 urban and 26 rural stakeholders attended the workshops. There were few areas of agreement with respect to both geographical region and participant group. Comparing older adults’ definition of ageing, there was no overlap between the top five ranked responses across urban and rural locations. With respect to areas of importance, there was agreement on free health care as well as financial support. In terms of barriers to healthy ageing, only nation-wide inflation was ranked highly by both groups. In addition, there were relatively few areas of congruence between stakeholder and older adult responses, irrespective of location, although engagement with family, adequate nutrition and monetary benefits were responses ranked by both groups as important for healthy ageing. Both groups ranked issues with the pension system and financial difficulties as barriers. When categorized using the socio-ecological model, across all questions, societal factors were prioritized most frequently (32 responses), followed by individual (27), relationship (15), and environment (14). Overcoming barriers to facilitate healthy ageing will require a multi-faceted approach and must incorporate the priorities of older individuals. Our results may serve as a guide for researchers and policymakers for future engagement and to plan interventions for improving the health of the ageing population in Pakistan.
Data quality assessment of the Enhanced Gonococcal Antimicrobial Surveillance Programme (EGASP), Thailand, 2015–2021
Authors: Tongtoyai Jaray , Cherdtrakulkiat Thitima , Girdthep Natnaree , Masciotra Silvina , Winaitham Santi , Sangprasert Pongsathorn , Daengsaard Ekkachai , Puangsoi Anuparp , Kittiyaowamarn Rossaphorn , Dunne Eileen F. , Sirivongrangson Pachara , Hickey Andrew C. , Weston Emily , Frankson Rebekah M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Quality assessments of gonococcal surveillance data are critical to improve data validity and to enhance the value of surveillance findings. Detecting data errors by systematic audits identifies areas for quality improvement. We designed and implemented an internal audit process to evaluate the accuracy and completeness of surveillance data for the Thailand Enhanced Gonococcal Antimicrobial Surveillance Programme (EGASP).

Methods

We conducted a data quality audit of source records by comparison with the data stored in the EGASP database for five audit cycles from 2015–2021. Ten percent of culture-confirmed cases of Neisseria gonorrhoeae were randomly sampled along with any cases identified with elevated antimicrobial susceptibility testing results and cases with repeat infections. Incorrect and incomplete data were investigated, and corrective action and preventive actions (CAPA) were implemented. Accuracy was defined as the percentage of identical data in both the source records and the database. Completeness was defined as the percentage of non-missing data from either the source document or the database. Statistical analyses were performed using the t-test and the Fisher’s exact test.

Results

We sampled and reviewed 70, 162, 85, 68, and 46 EGASP records during the five audit cycles. Overall accuracy and completeness in the five audit cycles ranged from 93.6% to 99.4% and 95.0% to 99.9%, respectively. Overall, completeness was significantly higher than accuracy (p = 0.017). For each laboratory and clinical data element, concordance was >85% in all audit cycles except for two laboratory data elements in two audit cycles. These elements significantly improved following identification and CAPA implementation.

Discussion

We found a high level of data accuracy and completeness in the five audit cycles. The implementation of the audit process identified areas for improvement. Systematic quality assessments of laboratory and clinical data ensure high quality EGASP surveillance data to monitor for antimicrobial resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Thailand.
Network pharmacology and molecular-docking-based strategy to explore the potential mechanism of salidroside-inhibited oxidative stress in retinal ganglion cell
Authors: Zhang Peng , Zhao Hongxin , Xia Xiangping , Xiao Hua , Han Chong , You Zhibo , Wang Junjie , Cao Fang
Published: July 2024

Background

Salidroside (SAL), the main component of Rhodiola rosea extract, is a flavonoid with biological activities, such as antioxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, and hypolipidemic. In this study, the potential therapeutic targets and mechanisms of SAL against oxidative stress in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) were investigated on the basis of in-vitro experiments, network pharmacology, and molecular docking techniques.

Methods

RGC oxidative stress models were constructed, and cell activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and apoptosis levels were examined for differences. The genes corresponding to rhodopsin, RGCs, and oxidative stress were screened from GeneCards, TCMSP database, and an analysis platform. The intersection of the three was taken, and a Venn diagram was drawn. Protein interactions, GO functional enrichment, and KEGG pathway enrichment data were analyzed by STRING database, Cytohubba plugin, and Metascape database. The key factors in the screening pathway were validated using qRT-PCR. Finally, molecular docking prediction was performed using MOE 2019 software, molecular dynamic simulations was performed using Gromacs 2018 software.

Results

In the RGC oxidative stress model in vitro, the cell activity was enhanced, ROS was reduced, and apoptosis was decreased after SAL treatment. A total of 16 potential targets of oxidative stress in SAL RGCs were obtained, and the top 10 core targets were screened by network topology analysis. GO analysis showed that SAL retinal oxidative stress treatment mainly involved cellular response to stress, transcriptional regulatory complexes, and DNA-binding transcription factor binding. KEGG analysis showed that most genes were mainly enriched in multiple cancer pathways and signaling pathways in diabetic complications, nonalcoholic fatty liver, and lipid and atherosclerosis. Validation by PCR, molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations revealed that SAL may attenuate oxidative stress and reduce apoptosis in RGCs by regulating SIRT1, NRF2, and NOS3.

Conclusion

This study initially revealed the antioxidant therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of SAL on RGCs, providing a theoretical basis for subsequent studies.
The relationship between self-reported preventive and curative orientations of dentists and oral healthcare services provided to Dutch young patients: An observational study
Authors: Hummel Riet , den Boer Joost , Barendse Mariska , van der Heijden Geert , van der Sanden Wil , Bruers Josef
Published: July 2024

The aims of this study were to investigate the relationship between self-reported preventive and curative orientations of general dental practitioners (GDPs) and the oral healthcare services (OHS) they provided to patients under 18-years-old. And in addition, to determine which patient, GDP, and dental practice characteristics predicted the provision of preventive and curative care. GDPs in the Netherlands using dental software program Exquise (>2,000) were invited to participate in this study voluntarily. Participants completed a web-based questionnaire on characteristics of themselves, their dental practices, and on 20 hypothetical clinical situations concerning caries management. Based on their responses GDPS were classified for their preventive orientation, and their curative orientation. Data on the OHS provided to their young patients over the period 2013–2017 were automatically extracted from the patient files. Based on the annual frequency of provided care to regular patients over a period of 4 or 5 years, this was converted into 3 longitudinal care patterns regarding prevention and 3 longitudinal care patterns regarding curative care. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted with a multilevel approach to correct for dental practices. The 37 participating GDPs provided data for 16,229 young patients. There was not a significant relationship between self-reported preventive orientations and preventive care patterns. The self-reported middle curative orientation was a predictor of the care pattern ‘curative treatment(s) in 1 year’ (OR 1.23 compared to nu curative treatments; 95% CI 1.02–1.48). The self-reported high curative orientation was a predictor of ‘curative treatments in several years’ (OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.27–2.85). Common characteristics predicting (p<0.05) both regular preventive care and curative treatments in several years were patient related: age 4–9 and 10–12, low-income neighborhood, 5 years included in study. GDP and dental practice related predictors were: the GDP could fulfill the care demand by working overtime, small dental practice (≤2,000 patients), and practice policy on the provision of care to young patients. This showed that the variation in provided care was partly supplier-driven instead of patient-centered.
Literary tastes are as heritable as other human phenotypes: Evidence from twins’ library borrowing
Authors: Jæger Mads M. , Møllegaard Stine , Blaabæk Ea H.
Published: July 2024

Social science research argues that differences in individuals’ literary and cultural tastes originate in social environments. Yet, it might be that these differences are partly associated with genetic differences between individuals. To address this possibility, we use nation-scale registry data on library borrowing among Danish twins (N = 67,900) to assess the heritability of literary tastes. We measure literary tastes via borrowing of books of different genres (e.g., crime and biographical novels) and formats (physical, digital, and audio) and decompose the total variance in literary tastes into components attributable to shared genes (heritability), shared environments (social environment shared by siblings), and unique environments (social environments not shared by siblings). We find that genetic differences account for 45–70 percent of the total variance in literary tastes, shared environments account for almost none of the variance, and unique environments account for a moderate share. These results suggest that literary tastes are approximately as heritable as other human phenotypes (e.g., physical traits, cognition, and health). Moreover, heritability is higher for socioeconomically disadvantaged groups than for advantaged groups. Overall, our results suggest that research should consider the role of genetic differences in accounting for individual differences in literary and broader cultural tastes.
Studying the impacts of variant evolution for a generalized age-group transmission model
Authors: Wei Fengying , Zhou Ruiyang , Jin Zhen , Sun Yamin , Peng Zhihang , Cai Shaojian , Chen Guangmin , Zheng Kuicheng
Published: July 2024

The differences of SARS-CoV-2 variants brought the changes of transmission characteristics and clinical manifestations during the prevalence of COVID-19. In order to explore the evolution mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 variants and the impacts of variant evolution, the classic SIR (Susceptible-Infected-Recovered) compartment model was modified to a generalized SVEIR (Susceptible-Vaccinated-Exposed-Infected-Recovered) compartment model with age-group and varying variants in this study. By using of the SVEIR model and least squares method, the optimal fittings against the surveillance data from Fujian Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention were performed for the five epidemics of Fujian Province. The main epidemiological characteristics such as basic reproduction number, effective reproduction number, sensitivity analysis, and cross-variant scenario investigations were extensively investigated during dynamic zero-COVID policy. The study results showed that the infectivities of the variants became fast from wild strain to the Delta variant, further to the Omicron variant. Meanwhile, the cross-variant investigations showed that the average incubation periods were shortened, and that the infection scales quickly enhanced. Further, the risk estimations with the new variants were performed without implements of the non-pharmaceutical interventions, based on the dominant variants XBB.1.9.1 and EG.5. The results of the risk estimations suggested that non-pharmaceutical interventions were necessary on the Chinese mainland for controlling severe infections and deaths, and also that the regular variant monitors were still workable against the aggressive variant evolution and the emergency of new transmission risks in the future.
Long-term survival outcomes of endoscopic therapy vs. surgical resection in patients with cardia gastrointestinal stromal tumor
Authors: Wu Qiong , Jiang Jun , Li Zhuofan , Ling Xin , Qiao Zhenguo , Ma Yimin
Published: July 2024

The ideal surgical approach for treating cardia gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is not clearly established. This study aimed to assess the long-term survival results among patients who received endoscopic therapy (ET) or surgical resection (SR) for cardia GIST. Cardia GIST patients from 2000 to 2019 were selected from the surveillance, epidemiology, and end result (SEER) database. Multiple imputation (MI) was applied to handle missing data, and propensity score matching (PSM) was carried out to mitigate selection bias during comparisons. Demographic and clinical characteristics’ effects on overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were assessed using Kaplan-Meier analyses and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models. A total of 330 patients with cardia GIST were enrolled, including 47 (14.2%) patients with ET and 283 (85.8%) patients with SR. The 5-year OS and CSS rates in the ET and SR groups were comparable [before PSM, (OS) (76.1% vs. 81.2%, P = 0.722), (CSS) (95.0% vs. 89.3%, P = 0.186); after PSM, (OS) (75.4% vs. 85.4%, P = 0.540), (CSS) (94.9% vs. 92.0%, P = 0.099)]. Moreover, there was no significant difference between ET and SR in terms of long-term OS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.735, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.422–1.282) and CSS (HR 1.560, 95% CI 0.543–4.481). Our study found no significant disparity in long-term survival outcomes between ET and SR in cardia GIST patients, implying that ET could be a valid surgical strategy for treating cardia GIST.
Financial burden and physical and emotional quality of life in COPD, heart failure, and kidney failure
Authors: Kim Seowoo , Perry Laura M. , Mossman Brenna , Dunn Addison , Hoerger Michael
Published: July 2024

Patients with chronic and serious illnesses experience significant quality of life concerns. More research is needed to understand the impact of financial burden on patients with COPD, heart failure, and kidney failure. Patients with COPD, heart failure, or kidney failure completed a cross-sectional online survey using validated measures of financial burden (general financial strain as well as financial toxicity attributable to treatment), physical quality of life (symptom burden and perceived health), and emotional quality of life (anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation). ANCOVA was used to examine whether financial strain and financial toxicity were associated with physical and emotional quality of life, while accounting for key covariates. Among 225 participants with COPD (n = 137), heart failure (n = 48), or kidney failure (n = 40), 62.2% reported general financial strain, with 34.7% experiencing financial toxicity attributable to treatments. Additionally, 68.9% rated their health as fair or poor, experiencing significant symptom burden including fatigue, dyspnea, and chest pain. Participants also reported clinically relevant levels of anxiety (55.1%), depression (52.0%), and suicidal ideation (21.8%). In the total sample, financial strain was associated with worse physical and emotional quality of life on all measures (all Ps < .001). Financial toxicity attributable to treatment was not associated with quality of life in the total sample or subsamples. Patients with COPD, heart failure, and kidney failure face significant financial, physical, and emotional burdens. Financial strain appears to undermine physical and emotional quality of life. Our study highlights the demand for interventions aimed at mitigating financial strain and toxicity experienced by individuals with chronic illnesses.
Betaine and I-LG may have a predictive value for ATB: A causal study in a large European population
Authors: Xian Xiaomin , Li Li , Ye Jing , Mo Wenxiu , Liang Dabin , Huang Minying , Chang Yue , Cui Zhezhe
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To analyze the causal relationship between 486 human serum metabolites and the active tuberculosis (ATB) in European population.

Methods

In this study, the causal relationship between human serum metabolites and the ATB was analyzed by integrating the genome-wide association study (GWAS). The 486 human serum metabolites were used as the exposure variable, three different ATB GWAS databases in the European population were set as outcome variables, and single nucleotide polymorphisms were used as instrumental variables for Mendelian Randomization. The inverse variance weighting was estimated causality, the MR-Egger intercept to estimate horizontal pleiotropy, and the combined effects of metabolites were also considered in the meta-analysis. Furthermore, the web-based MetaboAnalyst 6.0 was engaged for enrichment pathway analysis, while R (version 4.3.2) software and Review Manager 5.3 were employed for statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 21, 17, and 19 metabolites strongly associated with ATB were found in the three databases after preliminary screening (P < 0.05). The intersecting metabolites across these databases included tryptophan, betaine, 1-linoleoylglycerol (1-monolinolein) (1-LG), 1-eicosatrienoylglycerophosphocholine, and oleoylcarnitine. Among them, betaine (I2 = 24%, P = 0.27) and 1-LG (I2 = 0%, P = 0.62) showed the lowest heterogeneity among the different ATB databases. In addition, the metabolic pathways of phosphatidylethanolamine biosynthesis (P = 0.0068), methionine metabolism (P = 0.0089), betaine metabolism (P = 0.0205) and oxidation of branched-chain fatty acids (P = 0.0309) were also associated with ATB.

Conclusion

Betaine and 1-LG may be biomarkers or auxiliary diagnostic tools for ATB. They may provide new guidance for medical practice in the early diagnosis and surveillance of ATB. In addition, by interfering with phosphatidylethanolamine biosynthesis, methionine metabolism, betaine metabolism, oxidation of branched-chain fatty acids, and other pathways, it is helpful to develop new anti-tuberculosis drugs and explore the virulence or pathogenesis of ATB at a deeper level, providing an effective reference for future studies.
Evaluation of point-of-use treatments and biochar to reduce 1,2,3-trichloropropane (TCP) contamination in drinking water
Authors: Hauptman B. Hope , Harmon Thomas C. , Nasef Ziad , Rosales Angela A. , Naughton Colleen C.
Published: July 2024

In rural agricultural regions characterized by historical fumigant use and in industrial areas, groundwater contamination by 1,2,3-trichloropropane (TCP) poses a significant environmental and health concern due to its potential as a carcinogen. This study evaluates the effectiveness of commercially available water pitchers equipped with carbon filters and almond biochar for point-of-use TCP treatment. The study found that the filters were able to remove TCP (>98%) from untreated groundwater during their lifespan, and different filter brands with varying flow rates showed no significant difference in TCP removal. These results suggest that these pitchers may provide a simple and efficient short-term solution. Furthermore, the study explored the feasibility of low-cost, locally sourced biochar derived from almond shells as a sustainable alternative to traditional carbon feedstocks. Batch isotherm tests, BET analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging were used for biochar studies. The study found that the almond biochar used had a low surface area and total pore volume in comparison to commercial Granular Activated Carbons (GACs) and that more than half of the total area was composed of micropores (< 2 nm), while XPS surveys revealed the presence of Calcium, Phosphorus, and Potassium on the char’s surface. Finally, batch isotherm studies show that almond biochar exhibits lower TCP absorption efficiency compared to commercially available granulated carbon. However, further research into biochar produced under varied pyrolysis conditions is needed to determine its potential as a substitute for coconut shells. These findings can provide affected communities with information on efficient and cost-effective treatment technologies of TCP at the domestic well and household levels.
Towards a circular theory of communication: The case of the Wayusa ritual of the traditional Kichwa people of Sarayaku
Authors: Suzina Ana Cristina
Published: July 2024

The Wayusa is a community ritual that is part of the exercise of political imagination among the Kichwa Indigenous people of Sarayaku, in Ecuador. In this article it will be discussed as a case study arguing towards a circular theory of communication, emerging from the works of Paulo Freire and calling for an approximation with Indigenous cosmology, looking for epistemological diversity and interdisciplinarity. Based in comprehensive fieldwork, this article suggests that the Wayusa illustrates the role of communication in the knowledge-chain in the community of Sarayaku, while also describing the kind of communication that it is made of. Different from a dominant linear theory of communication, it points to a conceptual framework whose horizon is not universalist but based on each space–time context. Beyond explaining a localized practice, it is argued that such circular model can dialogue and challenge the linear one as an operative general framework.
Animating queer figured worlds: How young adult animation is cultivating queer spaces and narratives
Authors: Dennin Kimberly , Black Rebecca W. , Alexander Jonathan
Published: July 2024

This article explores how three contemporary animated television series for young people expand the concept of figured worlds to create queer figured worlds that challenge notions of both hetero- and homonormativity. Through a textual, thematic/detailed, qualitative content analysis of these shows, we demonstrate how the worldbuilding in these series goes beyond creating sites for queer resistance to heteronormativity by creating queer figured worlds. We examine three aspects of worldbuilding – characters, conflict and culture – and how they serve to resist stereotyping and normalization to present a diversity of queer experiences and provide a framework for queer people to imagine queer futures. Queer figured worlds can allow young people to imagine social roles and life possibilities that are not presented in traditional figured worlds.
Defining the dream: Same-sex marriage on Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings
Authors: Zolides Andrew
Published: July 2024

Since the US Supreme Court recognized the fundamental right to same-sex marriage, the wedding industry has expanded to a new slate of consumers. The Walt Disney Company has been no different, marketing towards same-sex Disney fans hoping to have their own ‘fairy tale wedding’. However, due to Disney’s ‘family-friendly’ brand identity and their complex relationship to the queer community, this process has been highly fraught. This is evidenced in Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings (DFTW), an infotainment series following the planning and execution of elaborate, Disney-themed marriages, engagements and anniversaries that both promotes Disney’s catalogue of economic holdings such as parks, cruises and expeditions, as well as reinforces a unique Disney brand of romance. Through a content and political economic analysis of DFTW, I argue the show exemplifies the reabsorption of counter-hegemonic ideologies into a dominant framework, wherein ‘non-traditional’ marriages help consolidate pre-existing systems of power and reinforce oppressive economic regimes.
Três Anos de Teses de Doutoramento em Educação
Authors: Silva Nuno , Dinis Sónia
Published: July 2024

As teses de doutoramento traduzem um ponto de encontro entre desafios contextuais (trazidos pelos doutorandos), interesses da academia e influências políticas. Contudo, não há conhecimento que as caraterize com profundidade e pondere o seu significado epistemológico: Que perspetivas sobre a natureza da realidade acolhem? Que realidades investigam? Através de que processos? Para responder, implementámos uma investigação no paradigma interpretativo, com abordagem mista e recurso à análise documental (teses em educação produzidas entre 2018-2020) e análise de conteúdo. Os resultados sugerem processos de produção de conhecimento tendencialmente interpretativos, por análise retrospetiva, com delimitação apriorística de temas, extensão temporal excessiva, focados em ambientes formais e nos alunos e professores. Conclui-se que as teses integram programas de investigação e podem anunciar a sua não progressividade; e que a tendência em investigar retrospetivamente pode não acolher as surpresas comuns à educação, sugerindo-se que a investigação está desafiada a integrar rituais de serendipidade.
Lazer, Culturas e Educação
Authors: Alves Cathia
Published: July 2024

Texto editorial para o Caderno Temático Lazer, Culturas e Educação.
Ciudad como Espacio de Desarrollo
Authors: Cardeña Sonia , Madariaga Aurora
Published: July 2024

El ocio es un derecho humano básico, clave para el desarrollo humano, individual y colectivo, a lo largo de todas las etapas de la vida. Estas últimas décadas, las ciudades industriales se han convertido en ciudades de las experiencias, en las cuales han tomado mucho poder conceptos intangibles como las motivaciones, emociones, necesidades y beneficios. En Occidente se entiende la infancia como una etapa evolutiva en la que el niño/a necesita distanciarse del adulto y explorar, lo que se ve dificultado en la ciudad a causa de las problemáticas como la falta de seguridad o suciedad de los espacios públicos. A pesar de ello, es indudable el relevante papel del ocio en esa etapa. La iniciativa “El barrio de los niños/as” en la ciudad de Vitoria-Gasteiz, País Vasco, pretende cambiar la ciudad y mejorarla en todos sus aspectos para que sea un espacio adecuado para todas las personas.
Anti-Fascist Politics of Studioing
Authors: Lewis Tyson , Hyland Peter
Published: July 2024

This article argues that art education ought to be central to the struggle against contemporary capitalist fascism. The authors turn to the space and time of the studio as the unique contribution of art education to antifascist struggles. In particular, the pataphysics of the studio – including its emphasis on producing particulars, laws of exceptions, and impossible solutions – all set adrift the rigidification of desirous production under capitalist reterritorialization. In conclusion, the article offers an invitation to art educators to experiment with a particular studious practice the authors call “protocoling” in relation to racist stereotypes as a way to break apart fascist subjectivities and the capture of desire into paranoid assemblages.
Journal of School-Makers
Authors: Vansieleghem Nancy , Driesen Mattijs
Published: July 2024

In this contribution we consider the educational potential of the camera as a collective study practice against the background of today’s proliferation of audio-visual media in education. Distinct from scholarship that investigates how the camera can be integrated in education to activate the student in terms of learning, and in terms of socialization or qualification, this contribution re-assesses the educational significance of cinematographic media through a radical affirmation of its potential to make school. To do so, we rely upon the TV-film Diario di un Maestro (Diary of a Schoolmaster) by the Italian filmmaker Vittorio De Seta (1971), and link it with the camera practice of the French filmmaker and pedagogue Fernand Deligny, who uses the camera as a practice that instead of working for, works within the (life) world. These concrete camera practices enable us, not only to reconsider what making school could mean, but also how the camera and its potentiality to make fiction can make school real.
Imaginação, Atividades Criadoras e Deficiência
Authors: Costa Marina Teixeira Mendes de Souza , Silva Daniele Nunes Henrique , Abreu Fabrício Santos Dias de
Published: July 2024

Texto editorial para o Caderno Temático Imaginação, Atividades Criadoras e Deficiência.
Coordenador Pedagógico da EJA
Authors: Castro Diniz Camila , Silveira de Moraes Lélia Cristina
Published: July 2024

O presente artigo objetiva analisar a identidade e prática de coordenadores pedagógicos que atuam na Educação de Jovens e Adultos, no Maranhão. É oriundo de uma pesquisa realizada com coordenadoras pedagógicas nos municípios de Rosário/MA e Santa Inês/MA, que fizeram parte da primeira turma de egressos do curso de especialização em coordenação pedagógica no Estado. Ancoradas numa pesquisa qualitativa de caráter bibliográfico-documental e de campo, utilizou-se como subsídio teórico e metodológico os estudos de Becker e Keller (2020); Di Pierro et. al (2001); dentre outros. E, para a coleta de dados, recorreu-se à entrevista semiestruturada. Diante dos resultados obtidos, constatou-se que existem fragilidades na identidade e na prática dos coordenadores pedagógicos que atuam na EJA, sendo necessário maiores investimentos em sua formação e melhores condições de trabalho para que a atuação nessa modalidade de ensino seja efetivamente qualificada e contribua com a formação dos jovens e adultos das escolas pesquisadas.
Escrita Textual Nas Aprendizagens Essenciais
Authors: Pardal Eugénia , Festas Isabel , Damião Maria Helena
Published: July 2024

Atualmente, a escrita é reconhecida como sendo uma área essencial, devendo ser consagrada, no currículo, não apenas como objeto, mas também como instrumento de aprendizagem. O presente artigo teve por objetivo principal estudar como é que a escrita é tratada nas Aprendizagens Essenciais (AE), no 3.º ciclo do ensino básico e nas disciplinas que integram a formação geral do ensino secundário. Atendendo à especificidade do papel das línguas e das restantes disciplinas, respetivamente na escrita como objeto e como instrumento facilitador de aprendizagem, procurou-se saber a incidência da escrita nas AE, identificando os componentes e processos que são objeto de atenção. Os principais resultados indicam que efetivamente as línguas incidem mais em aspetos relacionados com a aprendizagem da escrita. Indicam, igualmente, que, apesar de a escrita estar prevista em grande parte das disciplinas, está completamente ausente em outras. Quanto aos processos, só o Planeamento está presente de modo sistemático. Processos/subprocessos como a Pesquisa, a Revisão, a Criação de ideias e Comparação com os objetivos e os componentes comunicativos da escrita são insuficientemente considerados. Podemos concluir que, apesar de as AE consagrarem um lugar à escrita, há algumas lacunas que devem ser objeto de atenção do ponto de vista educativo.
Intercambio Modal del Relativo en la música popular: de Los Beatles a Spinetta
Authors: Colli Aníbal Ernesto
Published: July 2024

En artículos precedentes hemos analizado los recursos armónicos en la obra de L. A. Spinetta (Recursos Spinetteanos, 2019) e identificamos al Intercambio Modal del Relativo como una herramienta singular de su estética. En este artículo nos proponemos, en primera instancia, explorar la definición de este recurso y sus alcances teóricos como tipo particular de relación de mediantes. En segundo lugar, analizaremos canciones de música popular de autores anteriores o contemporáneos a L. A. Spinetta y compararemos sus distintos usos y resultados estéticos. Finalmente propondremos una clasificación sobre las distintas aplicaciones y posibilidades de esta herramienta armónica. Creemos que esta investigación puede aportar a la comprensión de la música anglo y latinoamericana y al mismo tiempo, contribuir a una teoría de la armonía en la música popular.
Imaginary Music
Authors: Rodríguez Kees Damián
Published: July 2024

En este trabajo nos proponemos dar cuenta del funcionamiento de la percepción musical en obras totalmente silenciosas del denominado Teatro Musical Contemporáneo (TMC) y cómo estas amplían el concepto mismo del campo musical tomando conciencia del funcionamiento conjunto de los estímulos visuales y sonoros. Para dar cuenta de ello recurrimos, desde una mirada fenomenológica, a las piezas «Música» del brasilero Tim Rescala, «Tlön» del norteamericano Mark Applebaum y «Pièce de gestes» del belga Thierry de Mey. Todas ellas caracterizadas por ser obras «de» y «en» silencio que colocan al gesto corporal como materia prima de la composición musical. Para desentrañar sus intrigas recurrimos al campo de estudio de las ciencias cognitivas y neurociencias denominado imaginary music. Este aborda el funcionamiento cerebral en cuanto a la audición y visualización de un hecho musical tanto en la presencia de sonido como en su ausencia, y los mecanismos que se accionan ya sea en la gestualidad para realizar el sonido como en su percepción, tanto en la existencia real de la señal acústica como cuando esta es imaginada. Nuestro objetivo es dar cuenta de la escucha musical a través de los gestos en silencio en el contexto del TMC tomando como referencia los casos mencionados y aportar a la teoría de la relación sonido–gesto para el análisis interdisciplinar desde categorías de las neurociencias.
JUSTIFICATION OF CAPITAL INVESTMENTS BASED ON THE ASSESSMENT OF LONG-TERM BUSINESS LOSSES AND THE STATE BUDGET FROM THE EXTERNAL FACTORS IMPACT
Authors: Nesterov Konstantin ,   Chelyabinsk State University, Pryakhin Gennady ,   Chelyabinsk State University
Published: July 2024

The article focuses on the problem of stabilization of the enterprise’s main activity into the manu-facturing sector in conditions of international instability. The paper aims to develop a methodology for assessing the expediency of investments in the creation of new industries from existing enterprises, based on a comparison with potential economic losses caused by the negative external economic factors impact associated with the imported supplies availability. The authors of the article tested the hypothesis about the possibility of fore-casting long-term business losses from the impact of these factors on the amount of profit before taxation, as well as long-term losses of the state budget in the form of a decrease in income tax and value added tax. The study employed economic and mathematical methods to deduce the direct factor dependence of target indica-tors on the values characterizing the analyzed enterprise’s main activity using the existing theory of financial management, as well as supplementing it with new, necessary coefficients. The conducted research resulted in obtaining the tools for forecasting business and state budget losses from the negative foreign economic factors impact on the state of manufacturing industries both in the short and long term. Based on the assessment of losses in the long term, the instrument has been obtained to justify investments by interested enterprises in the creation of a new industrial complex, as well as investments from the state budget, in case the investment capi-tal of production associations is insufficient. The result of the work can be determined by the proposed conse-quent set of tools for justifying investment activity in the industrial sector to prevent the existing risks of impact on the socio-economic situation of production-oriented regions.
APPROACHES TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF PSYCHOMETRIC VERIFICATION OF THE METHODOLOGY IN ASSESSING THE HUMAN RESOURCES OF THE ORGANIZATION
Authors: Shcherbakov Artem ,   Vladimir State University named after A.G. and N.G. Stoletov, Kabanov Vyacheslav ,   Vladimir branch of the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation
Published: July 2024

The article focuses on psychometric evaluation of methods. The purpose of the work is to form a classification of approaches to psychometric testing of questionnaires when assessing human resources. The methodological toolkit is the assessment of test-retest reliability using a nonparametric criterion for assessing the reliability of differences in empirical data. Approaches to understanding dependent and independent varia-bles are identified within the framework of assessing mathematical and statistical trends in the psychometric parameters of the questionnaire. The study highlights the features of the procedure for validating methods: constructs subject to and not subject to validation, objective and subjective measurement parameters, natural and synthetic quantities. It demonstrates a method for determining the test-retest reliability of a methodology (questionnaire) using the method of comparing indicators and assessing the reliability of differences in empirical research data. The fol-lowing approaches to assessing the use of the questionnaire method in assessing human resources have been identified: an integral approach to determining cross-validity, a traditional approach to assessing test-retest reli-ability using nonparametric criteria for assessing the reliability of differences in empirical data. Thus, the results of the study can be applied in the structure of a comprehensive study of innovative ap-proaches to assessing the human resources of an organization and confirm the hypothesis put forward within the framework of this study. The results obtained develop a paradigm for human resource management based on data and standardization of methods for their assessment, mechanisms for studying the projective potential of an individual.
Spatial Algorithmic Bias in Socio-Economic Clustering of Russian Regions
Authors: Blanutsa Viktor ,   V.B. Sochava Institute of Geography SB RAS
Published: July 2024

Decision-making based on complex human-machine algorithms can lead to discrimination of citizens based on gender, race and other grounds. However, in world science there is no idea of algorithmically conditioned discrimination of citizens by their place of residence. This also applies to the adoption of algorithmic decisions on the socio-economic development of regions. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to detect algorithmic bias in the results of socio-economic clustering of Russian regions. To achieve this goal, it was necessary to identify sensitive operations in cluster analysis that could lead to spatial injustice, form an array of articles on socio-economic clustering of subjects (regions) of the Russian Federation, analyze all articles for the possibility of algorithmic bias and identify Russian regions with potentially biased attitudes towards them as a result of clustering. The term ‘spatial algorithmic bias’ is proposed. Using the author’s semantic search algorithm in bibliographic databases, six hundred articles with empirical results of cluster analysis of Russian regions by socio-economic indicators were identified. The characteristics of the identified articles are given. The analysis of all the articles showed that algorithmic bias is most evident in the four operations of the clustering algorithm – deploying a conceptual model into an optimal set of indicators, selecting regions, choosing a way to combine regions into clusters and determining the number of clusters. Examples of discriminated Russian regions are presented for each operation. Three directions of further research are indicated. Practical significance may be associated with the adoption of unbiased decisions on regional socio-economic development based on fair clustering of the Russian Federation’s subjects
Matematik LGS Çalışma Kitabının PISA Matematik Okuryazarlığı Bağlamında İncelenmesi
Authors: TARIM KAMURAN , Köksal Elanur
Published: July 2024

Bu çalışmanın amacı, 2022-2023 yıllarında 8. Sınıf öğrencileri için Millî Eğitim Bakanlığı Ölçme Değerlendirme ve Sınav Hizmetleri Genel Müdürlüğü tarafından yardımcı kaynak eğitim materyali olarak hazırlanmış 8. Sınıf Liselere Geçiş Sınavına (LGS) yönelik çalışma kitabında bulunan soruların PISA matematik okuryazarlık yeterlilik düzeyleri ve PISA matematik okuryazarlık bağlamları bakımından incelenmesidir. Araştırmada kitap incelemesi yapılacağından nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden doküman analizi kullanılmıştır. Kitaptaki sorular incelendiğinde PISA matematik okuryazarlık yeterlilik düzeyleri bakımından soruların çoğunluğunun üçüncü düzeyde (%55,5) olduğu ayrıca birinci düzey, beşinci düzey ve altıncı düzey soruların kitapta yer almadığı görülmektedir. Kitapta bulunan sorular PISA matematik okuryazarlığı bağlam kategorilerine göre incelendiğinde soruların en çok bilimsel bağlamda (%50,1) yer aldığı görülürken soruların en az toplumsal bağlamda (%7,7) yer aldığına ulaşılmıştır. Bu anlamda yeni yazılacak olan matematik kitaplarında PISA matematik okuryazarlığı yeterlilik düzeylerine göre her düzeyden eşit oranda soru bulundurulmasına ve PISA matematik okuryazarlığı bağlamlar bakımından eşit oranda soruya yer verilmesi önerilmektedir.
Proteolytic activity of rumen bacterial species from the genus Prevotella
Authors: AVGUŠTIN Gorazd
Published: July 2024

27 strains belonging to four recently described anaerobic bacterial species from the genus Prevotella were tested for proteolytic activity against 14C labelled casein. A great variability in casein degradation activity was detected, supporting the phylogenetic findings about this bacterial genus. The highest activity was detected with P. brevis strains and some individual strains representing unique taxonomic lineages. For the rest of the strains, belonging to P. ruminicola, P. brevis and P. albensis, the commonly made assumption of an important role in protein breakdown in the rumen ecosystem is presumably not valid.