bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A phase II, multicenter, nonblinded, randomized controlled trial for evaluating protective effects of ABPC/SBT plus, azithromycin versus erythromycin, in pregnant women with pPROM occurring at <28 weeks of gestation on the development of BPD in neonates: Study protocol
Authors: Ohkuchi Akihide , Okazaki Kaoru , Iwamoto Shintaro , Sako Mayumi , Kobayashi Tohru , Yanagihara Itaru , Nomiyama Makoto ,   on behalf of the group of the PPROM-AZM study
Published: July 2024

This is a protocol for PPROM-AZM Study, phase II, nonblinded, randomized controlled trial. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) at a postmenstrual age of 36 weeks (BPD36) is often observed in infants with preterm premature rupture of the membranes (pPROM). A regimen of ampicillin (ABPC) intravenous infusion for 2 days and subsequent amoxicillin (AMPC) oral administration for 5 days plus erythromycin (EM) intravenous infusion for 2 days followed by EM oral administration for 5 days is standard treatment for pPROM. However, the effect on the prevention of moderate/severe BPD36 using the standard treatment has not been confirmed. Recently, it is reported that ampicillin/sulbactam (ABPC/SBT) plus azithromycin (AZM) was effective for the prevention of moderate/severe BPD36 in pPROM patients with amniotic infection of Ureaplasma species. Therefore, our aim is to evaluate the occurrence rate of the composite outcome of “incidence rate of either moderate/severe BPD36 or intrauterine fetal death, and infantile death at or less than 36 weeks 0 days” comparing subjects to receive ABPC/SBT for 14 days plus AZM for 14 days (intervention group) and those to receive ABPC/SBT for 14 days plus EM for 14 days (control group), in a total of 100 subjects (women with pPROM occurring at 22–27 weeks of gestation) in Japan. The recruit of subjects was started on April 2022, and collection in on-going. We also investigate the association between the detection of Ureaplasma species and occurrence of BPD36. In addition, information on any adverse events for the mother and fetus and serious adverse events for infants are collected during the observation period. We allocate patients at a rate of 1:1 considering two stratification factors: onset of pPROM (22–23 or 24–27 weeks) and presence/absence of a hospital policy for early neonatal administration of caffeine.

Trial registration: The trial number in the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials is jRCTs031210631.
Suboptimal micronutrient intake among children aged 6 to 23 months in Ethiopia: Further analysis of the demographic and health survey
Authors: Fetene Samrawit Mihret , Negash Wubshet Debebe , Amare Tsegaw , Belachew Tadele Biresaw , Addis Banchlay , Asmamaw Desale Bihonegn , Kidie Atitegeb Abera , Endawkie Abel , Wubante Sisay Maru , Zegeye Alebachew Ferede , Tamir Tadesse Tarik , Fentie Elsa Awoke
Published: July 2024

Background

The recommended essential micronutrient such as food rich in vitamin-A or iron, multiple micronutrient powder or iron supplement, routine daily consumption of iodine, and vitamin-A supplement are deficient among children in Ethiopia. This has been a significant public health problem despite the government efforts. Although few studies have examined the micronutrient intake among children, they are limited in scope and methodological measurements. Analyzing the micronutrient intake among children across all regions and leveraging all essential micronutrient elements are crucial for generating improved evidence to better inform policy. Thus, we examined the micronutrient intake among children aged 6 to 23 months in Ethiopia.

Methods

We used data from the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. A two-stage stratified sampling technique was employed, and 1392 children aged 6 to 23 months were included in our analysis. We conducted a multilevel mixed-effect binary logistic regression analysis to identify determinants of micronutrient intake. In the final model, we used a p-value of less than 0.05 and Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with their 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

We found that only 27.6% (95% CI: 26.8–31.6) of children aged 6 to 23 months were received the recommended micronutrients in Ethiopia. We identified that maternal educational status (Educated mothers (AOR = 2.09, 95%CI:1.23–3.58)), health facility delivery (AOR = 2.14, 95%CI:1.42–2.98), household wealth status (middle quantile (AOR = 1.80, 95%CI:1.01–3.21)), children’s age (12 to 23 months age (AOR = 2.36, 95% CI: 1.33–4.21)), and mother’s exposure to media (AOR = 1.70, 95%CI: 1.42–2.04) were increased micronutrient intake, whereas residing in the rural communities (AOR = 0.27, 95%CI: 0.21–0.34) decreased micronutrient intake.

Conclusions

Nearly three-fourths of children aged 6 to 23 months did not receive the recommended essential micronutrients in Ethiopia. Therefore, there is a need to broaden strategies aimed at enhancing the intake by improving information and knowledge dissemination among mothers during facility visits and through media channels.
Evolution of an epidemic: Understanding the opioid epidemic in the United States and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on opioid-related mortality
Authors: Laing Rachel , Donnelly Christl A.
Published: July 2024

We conduct this research with a two-fold aim: providing a quantitative analysis of the opioid epidemic in the United States (U.S.), and exploring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on opioid-related mortality. The duration and persistence of the opioid epidemic lends itself to the need for an overarching analysis with extensive scope. Additionally, studying the ramifications of these concurrent severe public health crises is vital for informing policies to avoid preventable mortality. Using data from CDC WONDER, we consider opioid-related deaths grouped by Census Region spanning January 1999 to October 2022 inclusive, and later add on a demographic component with gender-stratification. Through the lens of key events in the opioid epidemic, we build an interrupted time series model to reveal statistically significant drivers of opioid-related mortality. We then employ a counterfactual to approximate trends in the absence of COVID-19, and estimate excess opioid-related deaths (defined as observed opioid-related deaths minus projected opioid-related deaths) associated with the pandemic. According to our model, the proliferation of fentanyl contributed to sustained increases in opioid-related death rates across three of the four U.S. census regions, corroborating existing knowledge in the field. Critically, each region has an immediate increase to its opioid-related monthly death rate of at least 0.31 deaths per 100,000 persons at the start of the pandemic, highlighting the nationwide knock-on effects of COVID-19. There are consistent positive deviations from the expected monthly opioid-related death rate and a sizable burden from cumulative excess opioid-related deaths, surpassing 60,000 additional deaths nationally from March 2020 to October 2022, ∼70% of which were male. These results suggest that robust, multi-faceted measures are even more important in light of the COVID-19 pandemic to prevent overdoses and educate users on the risks associated with potent synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.
Effects of group entitativity on young English-speaking children’s interpretation of inclusive We
Authors: Vasil Jared , Capoot Camryn , Tomasello Michael
Published: July 2024

The pronoun we can be used to refer to various collections of people depending on various pragmatic factors. This article reports the results of two online experiments that investigated children’s interpretation of inclusive we, in which the child-listener is part of the intended referent of we. 128 2- and 4-year-olds collaborated with three partners in a coloring task. Before they played together, one partner informed participants that, e.g., “we can color!” Participants had their own markers and had to choose to how many partners to distribute (virtual) markers. In the first experiment, the partners appeared more like an aggregation of individuals than a collaborative group. The second experiment flipped this so that the partners appeared more like a collaborative group. Contrary to expectations, there was relatively little evidence for development in children’s interpretation of we. Additionally, participants did not sharply distinguish their interpretations of we from those of we both or we all. Rather, participants were more likely to choose group interpretations when contextual cues indicated that their partners were a collaborative group than an aggregation of individuals. Interestingly, this interpretational distinction was sharpest for the pragmatically ambiguous we, compared to the relatively unambiguous we both and we all. These results are informative about the kinds of cues that shape young children’s interpretation of pragmatically ambiguous pronominal reference.
Investigating mechanical deformation’s role in cochlear implant durability
Authors: Blank Tatiana , Ahrens André Marcel , Klose Christian , Canadinç Demircan , Lenarz Thomas , Maier Hans Jürgen
Published: July 2024

Platinum and platinum-based alloys are used as the electrode material in cochlear implants because of the biocompatibility and the favorable electrochemical properties. Still, these implants can fail over time. The present study was conducted to shed light on the effects of microstructure on the electrochemical degradation of platinum. After three days of stimulation with a square wave signal, corrosive attack appeared on the platinum surface. The influence of mechanical deformation, in particular rolling, on the corrosion resistance of platinum was also prominent. The cyclic voltammetry showed a clear dependence on the electrolyte used, which was interpreted as an influence of the buffer in the artificial perilymph used. In addition, the polarization curves showed a shift with grain size that was not expected. This could be attributed to the defects present on the surface. These findings are crucial for the manufacture of cochlear implants to ensure their long-term functionality.
Epidaure Market–Effectiveness and transferability of a school-based intervention to improve healthy and sustainable food choices by schoolchildren: Protocol of a randomized controlled trial and qualitative study
Authors: Curnier Aurélie , Cholley-Gomez Marie , Lecêtre Florian , Peteuil Audrey , Meunier-Beillard Nicolas , Fonquerne Leslie , Darras Lucy , Eymard-Duvernay Sabrina , Méjean Caroline , Delpierre Cyrille , Cottet Vanessa , Cousson-Gélie Florence
Published: July 2024

Context

At least 40% of cancers are linked to environmental or behavioral factors, and dietary behavior appears to be a major lever. Epidaure Market is a prevention initiative developed using a method for co-constructing health promotion initiatives and prevention programs that stratifies evidence from the scientific literature and combines it with experiential knowledge (DEVA, TPB, BCT). It promotes a sustainable diet (i.e., healthy, ecological and ethical nutrition) among 5th and 4th grade students during the crucial period of adolescence, when these behaviors are often far from the recommendations.

Method

The protocol implemented was carried out in 72 middle school classes in the Montpellier and Dijon academies. The intervention included teaching sessions and a virtual supermarket game, integrated into the school curriculum and delivered by science teachers. Effectiveness is tested in a cluster randomized controlled trial with 3 evaluation times (pre- and post-intervention and 1 follow-up). The study also includes an implementation assessment, with process analysis and implementation elements, as well as a transferability assessment based on key functions (FIC model and Astaire grid).

Expected outcomes

The study is still underway within the school. The primary expected outcome is a positive influence on the motives underlying food choices to move towards a sustainable diet. Secondary expectations involve changes in variables such as self-efficacy and perceived social norms, as well as an increase in knowledge about healthy eating. We also expect the qualitative approaches to provide information on the deployment process in the new territories.

Discussion

The study aims not only to demonstrate the effectiveness of Epidaure Market, but also to identify the optimal conditions for its nationwide implementation in France’s middle schools. Ultimately, the initiative aims to help reduce the incidence of cancer by promoting healthier eating habits among teenagers.
Association between physiotherapist sleep duration and working environment during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in Japan: A secondary retrospective analysis study
Authors: Morisawa Fumito , Nishizaki Yuji , Nojiri Shuko , Daida Hiroyuki , Minamino Tohru , Takahashi Tetsuya
Published: July 2024

Studies have reported that health care professionals experienced a lack of sleep during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and that such lack of sleep and working environment affect their performance. However, to the authors’ knowledge, no study has yet investigated the relationship between sleep duration and working environment among Japanese physiotherapists during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study retrospectively investigated the sleep duration of physiotherapists directly providing physiotherapy to patients with COVID-19 within the red zone and analyzed the association between sleep duration and working environment using logistic regression analysis. Among the 565 physiotherapists studied, the average sleep duration was 6 (6–7) h, and 381 (67.4%) had an average sleep duration of ≤6 h. Less experienced physiotherapists were 1.03 times more likely to sleep ≤6 h, and those in charge of patients with COVID-19 as the supervisor ordered were 0.64 times more likely to sleep ≤6 h. Moreover, physiotherapists with a significant increase in the frequency of internal online meetings and those who had been providing physiotherapy to patients with COVID-19 for >6 months were 2.34 and 2.05 times more likely to sleep ≤6 h, respectively. During the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan, two-thirds of the physiotherapists directly providing physiotherapy to patients with COVID-19 slept less than the recommended duration. This study highlights the need for appropriate workload and work hour management for physiotherapists according to their experience and workload, as well as establishing a medical care system that includes work rotation to ensure that the recommended sleep duration is satisfied.
Enterococcus spp. in fish: Analysis of the presence and resistance in samples from Tri-City, Poland
Authors: Kukułowicz Anita , Steinka Izabela , Gardocka Maria
Published: July 2024

The growing concern over antibiotic resistance in foodborne pathogens necessitates comprehensive assessments of its prevalence and associated risks in various food products. The present study aimed to assess the occurrence of Enterococcus spp. in samples of fish purchased at various points of sale in the Tricity region. The selection of products (n = 74) was based on their availability and included both fish caught in the Baltic region and products imported from, Vietnam, China, Norway, and European Union (EU) countries. For bacterial isolation, samples were inoculated into selective broth, and the growth of enterococci was assessed based on turbidity. Positive cultures were confirmed by a change in color in bromocresol purple broth and were isolated on Slanetz-Bartley agar. Bacteria were present in all tested samples regardless of the degree of raw material processing as follows: frozen (F)– 55%, fresh/raw (FS)– 70.6%, thawed (DF)– 30%, smoked (S)– 50%, and the packaging methods, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP)– 34.4%, unit packaging (UP)– 75%, and sold in bulk (SB)– 76.9%, with an overall frequency of occurrence of 58.1%. The number of bacteria ranged from not detected to 4.28-log cfu/g, with the lowest mean values for thawed fish and those packed in MAP. Tests conducted on 24 strains isolated from samples showed their varied sensitivity to tetracyclines. Single cases of multidrug resistance of the tested strains were also observed. The conducted statistical analysis did not show statistically significant differences in the count of enterococci based on the origin, degree of processing, or packaging (p < 0.05). Moreover, differences in strain sensitivity to ampicillin were observed. Detected cases of resistance, especially to tetracycline, require careful monitoring and action to limit the health risks associated with resistant bacterial strains in food products.
Diagnostic ability of Peptidase S8 gene in the Arthrodermataceae causing dermatophytoses: A metadata analysis
Authors: Kenjar Apoorva R. , Mohan Raj Juliet Roshini , Girisha Banavasi Shanmukha , Karunasagar Indrani
Published: July 2024

An unambiguous identification of dermatophytes causing dermatophytoses is necessary for accurate clinical diagnosis and epidemiological implications. In the current taxonomy of the Arthrodermataceae, the etiological agents of dermatophytoses consist of seven genera and members of the genera Trichophyton are the most prevalent etiological agents at present. The genera Trichophyton consists of 16 species that are grouped as clades, but the species borderlines are not clearly delimited. The aim of the present study was to determine the discriminative power of subtilisin gene variants (SUB1-SUB12) in family Arthrodermataceae, particularly in Trichophyton. Partial and complete reads from 288 subtilisin gene sequences of 12 species were retrieved and a stringent filtering following two different approaches for analysis (probability of correct identification (PCI) and gene gap analysis) conducted to determine the uniqueness of the subtilisin gene subtypes. SUB1 with mean PCI value of 60% was the most suitable subtilisin subtype for specific detection of T.rubrum complex, however this subtype is not reported in members of T. mentagrophytes complex which is one of the most prevalent etiological agent at present. Hence, SUB7 with 40% PCI value was selected for testing its discriminative power in Trichophyton species. SUB7 specific PCR based detection of dermatophytes was tested for sensitivity and specificity. Sequences of SUB7 from 42 isolates and comparison with the ITS region showed that differences within the subtilisin gene can further be used to differentiate members of the T. mentagrophytes complex. Further, subtilisin cannot be used for the differentiation of T. benhamiae complex since all SUB subtypes show low PCI scores. Studies on the efficiency and limitations of the subtilisin gene as a diagnostic tool are currently limited. Our study provides information that will guide researchers in considering this gene for identifying dermatophytes causing dermatophytoses in human and animals.
Exploring the causes underlying the latitudinal variation in range sizes: Evidence for Rapoport’s rule in spiny lizards (genus Sceloporus)
Authors: López-Reyes Kevin , Yáñez-Arenas Carlos , Villalobos Fabricio
Published: July 2024

Species’ range size is a fundamental unit of analysis in biodiversity research, given its association with extinction risk and species richness. One of its most notable patterns is its positive relationship with latitude, which has been considered an ecogeographical rule called Rapoport’s rule. Despite this rule being confirmed for various taxonomic groups, its validity has been widely discussed and several taxa still lack a formal assessment. Different hypotheses have been proposed to explain their potential mechanisms, with those related to temperature and elevational being the most supported thus far. In this study, we employed two level of analyses (cross-species and assemblage) to investigate the validity of Rapoport’s rule in spiny lizards (genus Sceloporus). Additionally, we evaluated four environmental-related hypotheses (minimum temperature, temperature variability, temperature stability since the last glacial maximum, and elevation) posed to explain such pattern, contrasting our results to those patterns expected under a null model of range position. Our results provided support for Rapoport’s rule at both levels of analyses, contrasting with null expectations. Consistently, minimum temperature and elevation were the most relevant variables explaining the spatial variation in range size. At the cross-species level, our null simulations revealed that both variables deviated significantly from random expectations. Conversely, at the assemblage level, none of the variables were statistically different from the expected relationships. We discussed the implication of our findings in relation to the ecology and evolution of spiny lizards.
The relationship between complete blood cell count-derived inflammatory biomarkers and benign prostatic hyperplasia in middle-aged and elderly individuals in the United States: Evidence from NHANES 2001–2008
Authors: Shi Chengdong , Cao Hongliang , Zeng Guoqiang , Yang Lei , Wang Yuantao
Published: July 2024

Background

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common health disorder of the male genitourinary system with a high prevalence, especially among middle-aged and older adults, which seriously affects men’s quality of life. Inflammatory markers derived from complete blood cell count (CBC) have previously been considered a prognostic indicator for various diseases, but little is known about their relationship with BPH. This study evaluated the relationship between complete blood cell count (CBC)-derived inflammatory biomarkers and BPH.

Methods

Data for this cross-sectional study were gathered from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2001 and 2008. Using multiple logistic regressions, the study examined the association between benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH) and Inflammatory biomarkers derived from blood cell counts such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), Systemic Inflammatory Response Index (SIRI) and Systemic Immunoinflammatory Index (SII).

Results

3,919 participants were included, with a median age of 61.00 (52.00–71.00) years old. Among them, 609 participants had benign prostatic hyperplasia, with a prevalence of 15.54%. Upon accounting for confounding factors, the study revealed a positive correlation between the plurality of BPH PLR and SII. However, MLR, NLR, and SIRI did not significantly correlate with the prevalence of BPH (p>0.05). In contrast to the lowest quartile, higher quartiles of PLR (OR = 1.93[1.38–2.69]) and SII (OR = 1.71[1.22–2.40]) were linked to an elevated risk of BPH. Interaction tests showed that age, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and drinking had no significant effect on this positive correlation (p for interaction>0.05). In addition, we found a roughly linear association between SII, PLR, and BPH using smoothed curve fitting.

Conclusions

According to our research, high levels of PLR and SII are positively linked with an increased risk of BPH in middle-aged and elderly individuals in the United States. The results compensate for previous studies that still need to be validated with larger prospective cohorts.
Outcomes of children with clear cell sarcoma of kidney following NWTS strategies in Shanghai China (2003–2021)
Authors: Zhang Anan , Yuan Xiaojun , Jiang Shayi , Xu Dongqing , Huang Can , Tang Jing yan , Gao Yijin
Published: July 2024

Background

Although clear cell sarcoma of kidney (CCSK) is rare, it is the second most common renal tumor in children after Wilms’ tumor. NWTS and SIOP are two major groups which had made tremendous efforts on renal tumors, but the strategies are different, for NWTS follows the upfront surgery principle providing definite pathology and the SIOP follows the upfront chemotherapy principle, each has its own advantages. Here we aimed to evaluate the outcomes of CCSK in China following NWTS strategies to analyze the prognostic factors.

Methods

For this multicenter retrospective study, a total of 54 patients were enrolled from three children’s hospitals, between April 2003 and December 2021. Treatment comprised upfront radical nephrectomy, followed by radiotherapy and intensive chemotherapy. Clinical records were regularly updated. Prognostic factors and survival rates were evaluated.

Results

The 54 enrolled patients had a median age of 37 months (range, 4 months to 11.4 years). The stage distribution was 16% stage I (n = 9), 30% stage II (n = 16), 39% stage III (n = 21), and 15% stage IV (n = 8). Among stage IV, metastasis sites included the lung (n = 6), bone (n = 1), and intra-orbital/cervical lymph node (n = 1). After a median follow-up of 5.6 years, the 5-year event-free survival (EFS) was 82.4±5.4%, and overall survival was 88.1±4.6%. The EFS was 100% for stage I, 93.8 ±6.1% for stage II, 71.1±10.0% for stage III, and 68.6±18.6% for stage IV. Univariate analysis revealed that staging (III/IV), tumor rupture, and inferior vena cava tumor thrombus were inferior prognostic factors. Multivariate analysis revealed that tumor rupture was independent poor prognostic factor (P = 0.01, HR 5.9). Among relapsed patients, relapse occurred a median of 11 months after diagnosis (range, 4–41 months), and 50% (4/8) achieved a second complete remission after multiple treatment. None of the six lung metastasis patients received lung RT, only one patient developed a relapse and was salvaged by RT after relapse.

Conclusions

Tumor rupture was independent poor prognostic factor. Upfront surgery of NWTS strategies can make a definite pathology diagnosis, but how to reduce tumor rupture during surgery is important especially in developing countries. The outcomes of patients with stage I–III CCSK in China were comparable to findings in other developed countries. Better outcomes were achieved in stage IV CCSK by using an intensive chemotherapy regimen including carboplatin, which require further confirmation by AREN0321. Lung RT may be safely omitted in selected patients who achieve a compete radiographic response after 6 weeks of systemic treatment (including surgery). Treatment should be encouraged even in CCSK cases with metastasis and relapse.
The association between self-rated health, number of family members, and cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults: Mediating role of depression
Authors: Bae Suyeong , Ju Yumi , Nam Sanghun , Jin Yeonju , Kang Sura , Ryu Jeh-Kwang , Hong Ickpyo
Published: July 2024

With the increasing number of older adults, research on cognitive function has expanded. However, studies examining the mediating effect of depression on the association between complex factors and cognitive function in older adults are still insufficient. Additionally, there is a lack of studies that have investigated these relationships by integrating multiple factors related to the cognitive function of older adults. Therefore, our study investigated the association between the number of family members, self-rated health, depression, and cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults and highlighted the mediating role of depression in these relationships. We used data from 218 older adults aged over 65 collected in a previous study. The independent variables were the number of family members and self-rated health, and the dependent variable was cognitive function measured by the cognitive impairment screening test (CIST). The mediation variable was depression measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Structural equation modeling was used to examine the association between the independent, dependent, and mediation variable. The mean ages of the participants were 81.71 (standard deviation [SD] = 6.00) years, with 198 females (90.83%) and 20 males (9.17%). The structural equation model demonstrated a good model fit (chi-square value = 33.375; degrees of freedom = 24; p-value = 0.0964; RMSEA = 0.042; CFI = 0.970; TLI = 0.956; SRMR = 0.042). Self-rated health and the number of family members were not directly associated with cognitive function; however, depression had significant indirect effects (self-rated health to cognitive function: coefficient = −0.023, p-value = 0.017; number of family members and cognitive function: coefficient = 0.012, p-value = 0.030). Our findings indicated that depression plays a crucial mediating role between self-rated health, number of family members, and cognitive function. The results highlight the need for comprehensive strategies for mental health care to support cognitive health in older adults.
Financiamento da educação básica pública e resultados educacionais: Revisão da literatura estrangeira e reflexões sobre o contexto brasileiro
Authors: Silva Junior Weber Tavares da , Alves Thiago
Published: July 2024

Com o objetivo de investigar a relação entre o financiamento da educação básica pública e os resultados educacionais atingidos, este estudo analisou um conjunto pré-selecionado de trabalhos acadêmicos estrangeiros e identificou elementos que podem ser empregados para fomentar o debate sobre o modelo brasileiro de financiamento educacional. O estudo empregou a técnica da revisão de escopo, ampliada por elementos da revisão sistemática de literatura, para efetuar a análise dos estudos estrangeiros selecionados. O estudo demonstrou que a disponibilidade de recursos financeiros capazes de fornecer um conjunto adequado de insumos, acompanhada de um processo de gestão eficiente, responsável e submetido a métodos de controle social, é requisito crucial para melhorar os resultados educacionais e reduzir os efeitos negativos gerados pelo baixo status socioeconômico. Observou-se ainda que embora o status socioeconômico seja um importante preditor dos resultados educacionais, ele pode ser mediado por ações realizadas dentro e fora da escola. Adicionalmente, este estudo demonstra que resultados educacionais precisam ser aferidos por indicadores diversos daqueles obtidos por meio de testes padronizados, como por exemplo: acesso; rendimento escolar; frequência; evasão; envolvimento discente; conclusão; progresso entre etapas/elevação de escolaridade; melhoria nos indicadores sociais/mobilidade social; atendimento aos direitos previstos na legislação, dentre outros.
Moving object detection via feature extraction and classification
Authors: Li Yang
Published: July 2024

Foreground segmentation (FS) plays a fundamental and important role in computer vision, but it remains a challenging task in dynamic backgrounds. The supervised method has achieved good results, but the generalization ability needs to be improved. To address this challenge and improve the performance of FS in dynamic scenarios, a simple yet effective method has been proposed that leverages superpixel features and a one-dimensional convolution neural network (1D-CNN) named SPF-CNN. SPF-CNN involves several steps. First, the coined Iterated Robust CUR (IRCUR) is utilized to obtain candidate foregrounds for an image sequence. Simultaneously, the image sequence is segmented using simple linear iterative clustering. Next, the proposed feature extraction approach is applied to the candidate matrix region corresponding to the superpixel block. Finally, the 1D-CNN is trained using the obtained superpixel features. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of SPF-CNN, which also exhibits strong generalization capabilities. The average F1-score reaches 0.83.
Physicochemical model of uranium hexafluoride (UF6) radiolysis under action of alpha particles
Authors: Danshin Artem A. , Kovalishin Alexey A.
Published: July 2024

A multiscale model describing the kinetics of the processes taking place during the radiolysis of uranium hexafluoride (UF6) has been developed using fundamental physical and chemical principles. The model incorporates both the radiolysis and thermal terms. The processes of the radiolysis products release from the gas phase to the solid and vice versa are taken into account. The predictions of the model are verified against the available experimental data.
Application of ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block or intercostal nerve block for acute herpes zoster and prevention of post-herpetic neuralgia: A case–control retrospective trial
Authors: Xue Mianrong , Yuan Rong , Yang Yanwei , Qin Zhenlong , Fu Runqiao
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Ultrasound (US)-guided intercostal nerve block (ICNB) is an easier approach with a very low incidence of complications for different surgeries; nevertheless, only a few studies estimate the effect of ICNB for acute HZ. To explore the US-guided ICNB for management of herpes zoster (HZ)-related acute pain and possible prophylaxis for post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) taking the conventional thoracic paraverteral block (TPVB) as control.

Methods

A total of 128 patients with HZ were retrospectively stratified into antiviral treatment (AVT) plus US-guided TPVB (TPVB group), AVT plus US-guided ICNB (ICNB group) or AVT alone (control group) based on the treatment they received. HZ-related illness burden (HZ-BOI) over 30 days after inclusion as the primary endpoint was determined by a severity-by-duration composite pain assessment. Rescue analgesic requirement, health-related quality of life, PHN incidence, and adverse events were also recorded.

Results

Significantly lower HZ-BOI scores within post-procedural 30 days using the area under the curve were reported with TPVB and ICNB compared with the control group: mean difference of 57.5 (p < 0.001) and 40.3 (p = 0.003). No difference was reported between TPVB and ICNB (p = 1.01). Significant greater improvements in PHN incidence, EQ-5D-3L scores, and rescue analgesic requirements were observed during follow-up favoring two trial groups, while comparable between two trial groups. No serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

US-guided ICNBs were as effective as TPVBs for acute HZ. The ICNB technique was an easier and time-efficient approach as opposed to conventional TPVB, which might be encouraged as a more accessible preemptive mean for preventing PHN.
Spectral reconstruction using neural networks in filter-array-based chip-size spectrometers
Authors: Wissing Julio , Fargueta Lidia , Scheele Stephan
Published: July 2024

Spectral reconstruction in filter-based miniature spectrometers remains challenging due to the ill-posed nature of identifying stable solutions. Even minor deviations in sensor data can cause misleading reconstruction outcomes, particularly in the absence of proper regularization techniques. While previous research has attempted to mitigate this instability by incorporating neural networks into the reconstruction pipeline to denoise the data before reconstruction or correct it after reconstruction, these approaches have not fully resolved the underlying issue. This work functions as a proof-of-concept for data-driven reconstruction that relies exclusively on neural networks, thereby circumventing the need to address the ill-posed inverse problem. We curate a dataset holding transmission spectra from various colored foils, commonly used in theatrical, and train five distinct neural networks optimized for spectral reconstruction. Subsequently, we benchmark these networks against each other and compare their reconstruction capabilities with a linear reconstruction model to show the applicability of cognitive sensors to the problem of spectral reconstruction. In our testing, we discovered that (i) spectral reconstruction can be achieved using neural networks with an end-to-end approach, and (ii) while a classic linear model can perform equal to neural networks under optimal conditions, the latter can be considered more robust against data deviations.
Parcours en reconnaissance d’acquis extrascolaires au 1er cycle universitaire : des enjeux de justice sociale
Authors: Belisle Rachel
Published: July 2024

Cet article propose une synthèse des résultats de recherches de divers pays tirés de travaux empiriques sur les parcours en reconnaissance des acquis dans des dispositifs au 1er cycle universitaire et vise à attirer l’attention sur des enjeux de justice sociale. On y constate que la reconnaissance des acquis contribue à l’obtention d’un diplôme de 1er cycle. Cependant, les défis restent importants pour que ce type de dispositifs serve à la fois les besoins sociaux et l’émancipation des personnes, tout particulièrement les besoins et aspirations de personnes ayant un rapport non traditionnel aux études et qui privilégient souvent l’apprentissage dans l’action ou avec des pairs.
La posture du corps professoral à l’égard de l’implantation d’une nouvelle politique de reconnaissance des acquis des compétences (RAC) et de l’expérience (RAE) pour les programmes de formation à l’enseignement
Authors: El Euch Sonia
Published: July 2024

La posture du corps professoral à l’égard des reconnaissances d’acquis de compétences (RAC) et d’expérience (RAE) pour les programmes de formation à l’enseignement est floue. Une étude a été effectuée pour décrire cette posture et rendre compte des facteurs explicatifs. Les résultats obtenus auprès de quelque 175 membres du corps professoral œuvrant en formation à l’enseignement dans les Facultés ou Départements des sciences de l’éducation au Québec révèlent une réticence à adhérer à la RAC/RAE pour la formation à l’enseignement malgré un accord avec le principe de RAC/RAE. Les facteurs influençant l’acceptation ou la résistance à la RAC/RAE ont été explorés à travers un questionnaire et sont présentés dans cet article.
Référentialisation des compétences enseignantes : Analyse des savoirs de l'agir professionnel en vue de la reconnaissance et la validation des acquis de l’expérience et des compétences
Authors: Alexandre Marie , Sylvain Lina , Raymond Danielle
Published: July 2024

Cet article rend compte d’un processus de référentialisation des savoirs de l’agir professionnel en situation. L'analyse du sens de l'action permet de saisir les situations critiques qui orientent le développement des compétences (Mayen et Métral, 2008). Fondé sur la conceptualisation de l'activité professionnelle, l’examen du Référentiel de compétences professionnelles. Profession enseignante (Gouvernement du Québec, 2020) a permis de traduire les processus internes requis en réponse aux situations de la pratique éducative ainsi que les traits essentiels des compétences. Les résultats révèlent l’interdépendance de quatre schèmes organisateurs de l’activité enseignante : l’apprentissage, l’environnement, la collectivité (collaboration) et le développement professionnel continu.
Valoriser la richesse des parcours
Authors: Barreau Laurence
Published: July 2024

Une employée de l'Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) témoigne de la pertinence de la reconnaissance des acquis et des compétences (RAC). Elle explique l'importance de la RAC pour les personnes qui ont des expériences de travail valables et veulent faire reconnaître ce savoir par l'obtention d'un diplôme malgré l’impact de cette décision sur leur vie. Elle nous montre qu’il ne s’agit pas seulement de technicalités et de gestion de dossier, mais surtout d’une opportunité, tant pour les personnes étudiantes que pour l’université, dans un processus conjoint.
Quelques propos recueillis lors d’un entretien sur la reconnaissance des acquis à l’université
Authors: Laurin Daniel
Published: July 2024

Le Bureau de coopération interuniversitaire (BCI) a été mandaté en 2018 par le ministère de l’Enseignement supérieur (MES) afin de collaborer avec les universités pour l’avancement du dossier de la reconnaissance des acquis (RA) universitaire au Québec. Daniel Laurin, conseiller-expert en reconnaissance et en validation des acquis (RVA) au BCI, a été interviewé par Jean Pascal Lafrance en mars 2023 dans le cadre de la préparation de ce numéro spécial sur la reconnaissance et la validation des acquis expérientiels (RVAE) à l’université.
Exploring the Effectiveness of Mediation in Resolving Disputes in the Indonesian Administrative Court
Authors: Amarini Indriati , Ismail Noorfajri , Saefudin Yusuf , Attamimi Zeehan Fuad , Hidayah Astika Nurul
Published: July 2024

This study analyzes mediation in administrative dispute resolution in Indonesian Administrative Courts. The settlement of administrative disputes through mediation is not recognized in the Administrative Court procedural law. Mediation in the dispute resolution process in Administrative Courts is still a matter of debate. One of the parties to the dispute is a public body or official who is included in the realm of public law, so that mediation is not possible. The execution of Administrative Court decisions that have permanent legal force does not guarantee justice and legal certainty. This research aims to analyze the development and implementation of mediation in settlement of public disputes in Administrative Courts. The research method used is doctrinal research or library research with secondary data sources in the form of legislation on Administrative Courts, Supreme Court regulations on mediation, and scientific journals of research results. The results showed that mediation in public dispute resolution is used as an alternative to dispute resolution and has long been applied in several countries. Mediation in administrative dispute resolution can be carried out in two ways. First, mediation can be carried out outside the Administrative Court, and then the lawsuit is revoked. Second, mediation can be carried out through Court-connected mediation in the Administrative Court. There is a need to develop and strengthen the application of Court-connected mediation for administrative dispute resolution from the aspects of procedural law and Administrative Court resources that support the mediation process.
Identification of the Optimal Neural Network Architecture for Prediction of Bitcoin Return
Authors: Šestanović Tea , Kalinić Milićević Tea
Published: July 2024

Neural networks (NNs) are well established and widely used in time series forecasting due to their frequent dominance over other linear and nonlinear models. Thus, this paper does not question their appropriateness in forecasting cryptocurrency prices; rather, it compares the most commonly used NNs, i.e. feedforward neural networks (FFNNs), long short-term memory (LSTM) and convolutional neural networks (CNNs). This paper contributes to the existing literature by defining the appropriate NN structure comparable across different NN architectures, which yields the optimal NN model for Bitcoin return forecasting. Moreover, by incorporating turbulent events such as COVID and war, this paper emerges as a stress test for NNs. Finally, inputs are carefully selected, mostly covering macroeconomic and market variables, as well as different attractiveness measures, the importance of which in cryptocurrency forecasting is tested. The main results indicate that all NNs perform the best in an environment of bullish market, where CNNs stand out as the optimal models for continuous dataset, and LSTMs emerge as optimal in direction forecasting. In the downturn periods, CNNs stand out as the best models. Additionally, Tweets, as an attractiveness measure, enabled the models to attain superior performance.
Cómo evitar un posible rechazo por parte del lector: unidades léxicas de la cobertura como estrategia de cortesía en la prosa académica
Authors: Boginskaya Olga
Published: July 2024

Este artículo explora la cobertura como una estrategia de cortesía utilizada para parecer humilde en el discurso académico. Se estudia la cobertura como la principal estrategia utilizada para mostrar cortesía en la prosa académica. Los estudios han explorado la cobertura desde diferentes perspectivas. Sin embargo, hay pocos estudios que se centren en los patrones léxicos de cobertura en el discurso académico. Con este fin, hemos construido un corpus integrado por 412 resúmenes que acompañan a artículos de investigación, todos ellos en la disciplina de la lingüística, la jurisprudencia, la ingeniería y la medicina. El marco teórico es el concepto de la cobertura propuesto por Myer (1989). La taxonomía propuesta por Vartalla (2001) se utilizó para analizar las herramientas de la cobertura léxica. El análisis cuantitativo indicó que la distribución de patrones léxicos usados para mostrar cortesía difería en cuatro disciplinas.
The Parmesan Pie (Part Two)
Authors: Martellotti Anna
Published: July 2024

This is the second and final instalment of the the article by the author which appeared in Issue 59,  which provides a history of a dish -- Torta Parmesana -- which originated in ancient mesopotamia. In this second part, the author examines how what was originally a magnificent and ostentatious dish was simplified and became widespread through Italy. 
The translation of the essay into English was done by Christopher Williams, who deserves our thanks and those of our readers for this valuable service.
Mrs Eells 'Unique Receipts'
Authors: Potter David
Published: July 2024

An account of a bibliographic investigation linking a manuscript held by the Bodleian Library with the author Mrs. Mary Eales, the 18th-century author of published works on confectionery.
Fruits, Ice and Coffee in 17th Century Persia
Authors: Chardin Sir John
Published: July 2024

An extensive extract from Sir John Chardin's Travels in Persia. This extract concerns types of fruit encountered, ice and its culinary uses, coffee drinking and coffee houses.
Inguinal lymph node metastases from prostate cancer: clinical, pathology, and multimodality imaging considerations
Authors: Woo Sungmin , Becker Anton S. , Ghafoor Soleen , Barbosa Felipe de Galiza , Arita Yuki , Vargas Hebert A.
Published: July 2024

Abstract Objective: To investigate clinical, pathology, and imaging findings associated with inguinal lymph node (LN) metastases in patients with prostate cancer (PCa). Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective single-center study of patients with PCa who underwent imaging and inguinal LN biopsy between 2000 and 2023. We assessed the following aspects on multimodality imaging: inguinal LN morphology; extrainguinal lymphadenopathy; the extent of primary and recurrent tumors; and non-nodal metastases. Imaging, clinical, and pathology features were compared between patients with and without metastatic inguinal LNs. Results: We evaluated 79 patients, of whom 38 (48.1%) had pathology-proven inguinal LN metastasis. Certain imaging aspects— short-axis diameter, prostate-specific membrane antigen uptake on positron-emission tomography, membranous urethra involvement by the tumor, extra-inguinal lymphadenopathy, and distant metastases—were associated with pathology-proven inguinal LN metastases (p < 0.01 for all). Associations with long-axis diameter, fatty hilum, laterality, and uptake of other tracers on positronemission tomography were not significant (p = 0.09–1.00). The patients with metastatic inguinal LNs had higher prostate-specific antigen levels and more commonly had castration-resistant PCa (p < 0.01), whereas age, histological grade, and treatment type were not significant factors (p = 0.07–0.37). None of the patients had inguinal LN metastasis in the absence of locally advanced disease with membranous urethra involvement or distant metastasis. Conclusion: Several imaging, clinical, and pathology features are associated with inguinal LN metastases in patients with PCa. Isolated metastasis to inguinal LNs is extremely rare and unlikely to occur in the absence of high-risk imaging, clinical, or pathology features.
Percorrer as formas, curvar a força: concepções de sujeito em Foucault e em Lacan
Authors: Silva Samuel Iauany Martins , Verissimo Danilo Saretta
Published: July 2024

Resumo: A fim de responder à distinta questão que Foucault endereça à psicanálise em seu curso de 1982 – seria ela correspondente às exigências do cuidado de si ( epiméleia heautoû )? –, procedemos por uma aproximação teórica entre as estruturas de concepção do sujeito expostas em seu discurso, A hermenêutica do sujeito , e no discurso de Lacan, A instância da letra no inconsciente ou a razão desde Freud . O propósito do manuscrito visa tanto continuar com uma problematização inacabada por parte do filósofo francês quanto fazer ressoar na psicanálise uma obra que ainda não conta com grande recepção no meio.