bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dominican Crossroads
Authors: Davidson Christina Cecelia
Published: October 2024

H. C. C. Astwood: minister and missionary, diplomat and politician, enigma in the annals of US history. In Dominican Crossroads, Christina Cecelia Davidson explores Astwood’s extraordinary and complicated life and career. Born in 1844 in the British Caribbean, Astwood later moved to Reconstruction-era New Orleans, where he became a Republican activist and preacher in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. In 1882 he became the first Black man named US consul to the Dominican Republic. Davidson tracks the challenges that Astwood faced as a Black politician in an era of rampant racism and ongoing cross-border debates over Black men’s capacity for citizenship. As a US representative and AME missionary, Astwood epitomized Black masculine respectability. But as Davidson shows, Astwood became a duplicitous, scheming figure who used deception and engaged in racist moral politics to command authority. His methods, Davidson demonstrates, show a bleaker side of Black international politics and illustrate the varied contours of transnational moral discourse as people of all colors vied for power during the ongoing debate over Black rights in Santo Domingo and beyond.
Vesalius and His Manikin: An Enduring Influence on Modern Anatomic Teaching
Authors: On Thomas J. , Xu Yuan , Jubran Jubran H. , Castillo Andrea L. , Tayebi Meybodi Ali , Alcantar-Garibay Oscar , Dagi T. Forcht , Preul Mark C.
Published: October 2024

Anatomic teaching has long informed surgical knowledge, experience, and skills. One tool for teaching that emerged during the Renaissance was the fugitive anatomic sheet, which used flap layers to reveal different levels of anatomy. In 1538, Vogtherr introduced the first fugitive sheets, which included illustrations of male and female figures with a torso paper flap that, when lifted, revealed the internal organs in a cartoonish style. The popularity of these anatomic fugitive sheets spurred an increase in small print-and-sale workshops. In 1543, Vesalius included fugitive anatomic sheets in his books Fabrica and Epitome, containing large paper flapped models that could be created by cutting out and gluing images of human internal anatomy onto a base layer. Students could tack these manikins up to a nearby wall during dissection. Significant collaboration between Vesalius and his publisher occurred to coordinate the integration of large foldable sheets featuring the cutout models into his works. Vesalius's groundbreaking discoveries, his use of the most advanced printing techniques, and his innovative teaching style are fundamental aspects of the legacy of medical education. This article shows these remarkable fugitive anatomic sheets from the original publications of Fabrica and Epitome together for the first time. It explores the innovative concepts and applications of Vesalius's unique printings.
Phylogenomic analysis of the Lake Kronotskoe species flock of Dolly Varden charr reveals genetic and developmental signatures of sympatric radiation
Authors: Woronowicz Katherine C. , Esin Evgeny V. , Markevich Grigorii N. , Martinez Crisvely Soto , McMenamin Sarah K. , Daane Jacob M. , Harris Matthew P. , Shkil Fedor N.
Published: October 2024

Recent adaptive radiations provide experimental opportunities to parse the relationship between genomic variation and the origins of distinct phenotypes. Sympatric radiations of the charr complex (genus Salvelinus) present a trove for phylogenetic analyses as charrs have repeatedly diversified into multiple morphs with distinct feeding specializations. However, charr species flocks normally comprise only two to three lineages. Dolly Varden charr inhabiting Lake Kronotskoe represent the most extensive radiation described for the genus, containing at least seven lineages, each with defining morphological and ecological traits. Here, we perform the first genome-wide analysis of this species flock to parse the foundations of adaptive change. Our data support distinct, reproductively isolated lineages within the clade. We find that changes in genes associated with thyroid signaling and craniofacial development provided a foundational shift in evolution to the lake. The thyroid axis is further implicated in subsequent lineage partitioning events. These results delineate a genetic scenario for the diversification of specialized lineages and highlight a common axis of change biasing the generation of specific forms during adaptive radiation.
Generation of a zebrafish neurofibromatosis model via inducible knockout of nf2a/b
Authors: Desingu Rajan Ayyappa Raja , Huang Yuanyun , Stundl Jan , Chu Katelyn , Irodi Anushka , Yang Zihan , Applegate Brian E. , Bronner Marianne E.
Published: October 2024

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF-2) is a dominantly inherited genetic disorder that results from variants in the tumor suppressor gene, neurofibromin 2 (NF2). Here, we report the generation of a conditional zebrafish model of neurofibromatosis established by inducible genetic knockout of nf2a/b, the zebrafish homologs of human NF2. Analysis of nf2a and nf2b expression revealed ubiquitous expression of nf2b in the early embryo, with overlapping expression in the neural crest and its derivatives and in the cranial mesenchyme. In contrast, nf2a displayed lower expression levels. Induction of nf2a/b knockout at early stages increased the proliferation of larval Schwann cells and meningeal fibroblasts. Subsequently, in adult zebrafish, nf2a/b knockout triggered the development of a spectrum of tumors, including vestibular Schwannomas, spinal Schwannomas, meningiomas and retinal hamartomas, mirroring the tumor manifestations observed in patients with NF-2. Collectively, these findings highlight the generation of a novel zebrafish model that mimics the complexities of the human NF-2 disorder. Consequently, this model holds significant potential for facilitating therapeutic screening and elucidating key driver genes implicated in NF-2 onset.
Skittering locomotion in cricket frogs: a form of porpoising
Authors: Weiss Talia , Gillis Gary B. , Van Mullekom Jennifer , Socha John J.
Published: October 2024

Multiple species of frogs in the Ranidae family have been observed to ‘skitter’ across the water surface, but little is understood about the biomechanical or physical mechanisms that underlie this behavior. All documented descriptions are anecdotal, asserting simply that the frogs can cross the water surface without sinking. To study this form of interfacial locomotion, we recorded high-speed video of the northern cricket frog Acris crepitans and quantified its kinematics. We also compared its semi-aquatic behavior with the frogs' terrestrial locomotion. Contrary to expectations based on anecdotal knowledge, we found that cricket frogs do not maintain an above-surface position throughout the locomotor cycle. Instead, the frogs are completely submerged during both the launching and landing phase of a jump cycle, similar to porpoising in other animals. It is possible that leg-retraction time constrains these frogs from performing true surface-only locomotion.
Prediction of Pathologic Complete Response in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Preoperative Serum Small Ribonucleic Acid Obtained After Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Hirohata Ryosuke , Yamamoto Yuki , Mimae Takahiro , Hamai Yoichi , Ibuki Yuta , Takahashi Ryou-u , Okada Morihito , Tahara Hidetoshi
Published: October 2024

Background

The authors hypothesized that small ribonucleic acid (sRNA) obtained from blood samples after neoadjuvant therapy from patients treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (NACRT) could serve as a novel biomarker for predicting pathologic complete response (pCR).

Methods

This study included 99 patients treated with esophagectomy after NACRT between March 2010 and October 2021 whose blood samples were collected between the end of NACRT and surgery. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to analyze sRNAs from the blood samples. A predictive model for pCR comprising micro-RNA isoforms (isomiR), transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived sRNAs (tsRNAs), and clinical factors was constructed using cross-validation.

Results

Of the 99 patients, pCR was diagnosed for 30 and non-pCR for 69 of the patients. Among sRNAs, the isomiRs of let-7b and miR-93 and the tsRNA group derived from tRNA-Gly-CCC/GCC were identified as predictive factors. The clinical factors included a decrease in the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) at the primary site, clinical complete response post-NACRT, preoperative biopsy, and post-NACRT carcinoembryonic antigen levels. The combined predictive model for pCR (C-PM) was established using the three sRNAs and four clinical factors. The area under the curve for the C-PM was 0.84, which was a significant factor in the multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 89.41; 95 % confidence interval 8.1–987.5; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Pathologic complete response after NACRT can be predicted by a predictive model constructed from preoperative clinical factors obtained via minimally invasive procedures and sRNA identified by NGS. Preoperative pCR prediction may influence treatment decision-making after NACRT.
Quantification of influenza virus mini viral RNAs using Cas13
Authors: Lamb Caitlin H. , Pitré Emmanuelle M. , Ajufo Sean , Rigby Charlotte V. , Bisht Karishma , Oade Michael S. , Jalal Hamid , Myhrvold Cameron , te Velthuis Aartjan J.W.
Published: October 2024

Influenza A virus (IAV) RNA synthesis produces full-length and deletion-containing RNA molecules, which include defective viral genomes (DVG) and mini viral RNAs (mvRNA). Sequencing approaches have shown that DVG and mvRNA species may be present during infection, and that they can vary in size, segment origin, and sequence. Moreover, a subset of aberrant RNA molecules can bind and activate host–pathogen receptor retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I), leading to innate immune signaling and the expression of type I and III interferons. Measuring the kinetics and distribution of these immunostimulatory aberrant RNA sequences is important for understanding their function in IAV infection. Here, we explored if IAV mvRNA molecules can be detected and quantified using amplification-free, CRISPR-LbuCas13a-based detection. We show that CRISPR-LbuCas13a can be used to measure the copy numbers of specific mvRNAs in samples from infected tissue culture cells. However, to efficiently detect mvRNAs in other samples, promiscuous CRISPR guide RNAs are required that activate LbuCas13a in the presence of multiple mvRNA sequences. One crRNA was able to detect full-length IAV segment 5 without amplification, allowing it to be used for general IAV infection detection nasopharyngeal swabs. Using CRISPR-LbuCas13a, we confirm that mvRNAs are present in ferret upper and lower respiratory tract tissue, as well as clinical nasopharyngeal swab extracts of hospitalized patients. Overall, CRISPR-LbuCas13a-based RNA detection is a useful tool for studying deletion-containing viral RNAs, and it complements existing amplification-based approaches.
Prostate cancer screening with Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) testing: A retrospective study
Authors: Goktas Olgun
Published: October 2024

Objective: To evaluate the results of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test used in prostate cancer screening.
Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on a total of 1106 male individuals, including 615 people (55.6%) aged 40-54, 379 people (34.3%) aged 55-69, and 112 individuals (10.1%) aged 70 and over. In the study, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test results were performed on a total of 1106 male individuals aged 40 and over registered in the Uludag University Family Health Center, Bursa, Turkey during the 5-years between June 1, 2018, and May 31, 2023, were taken from the database and analyzed. Relationships with sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, and risk factors were examined. Data was analyzed using SPSS 25.
Results: About 15.5% of the participants were married, 78.4% were single, and 6% were separated from their spouses or widows. The PSA values of the patients referred to the urologist were found to be significantly different between the ages of 55 and 69. It was determined that the PSA levels of the patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy and prostate cancer were higher than the patients without any finding, and the mean was 6.81±4.39 (p=0.01).
Conclusion: In our study, it is important to diagnose benign prostatic hypertrophy or prostate cancer in patients aged 55-69 years, whose mean PSA levels were 6.81±4.39, and referred to a urologist. As a contribution to the discussions in the literature, we recommend that the patient with symptoms be referred to the urologist after the test request and the joint decision with the family physician.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.8558
How to cite this: Goktas O. Prostate cancer screening with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing: A retrospective study. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(10):2324-2330. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.8558
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Associations Between Factors Affecting Itching and Quality of Life in Thai Patients with Psoriasis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Teyateeti Phurichaya , Autchayawat Chanita , Mahikul Wiriya , Smithrithee Rithee
Published: October 2024

Introduction Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease affecting quality of life and causing pruritus. The factors influencing itch and its impact on the quality of life in Thai psoriasis patients are unknown. We aimed to identify these factors and their effect on quality of life. Methods In this questionnaire-based cross-sectional study, we included patients with psoriasis who received treatment at Chulabhorn Hospital in Thailand from January 2019 to July 2021. Interviewer is the non-dermatologist practician. The patient’s information was collected, including demographic data, Itch Numeric Rating Scale (Itch NRS) score, factors affecting itch, and score on the Thai version of the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). We performed descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis. Results Of 100 participants, most (99%) experienced itching, with a moderate degree of pruritus (mean Itch NRS score 6.5 ± 2.6) and a moderate effect on quality of life (mean DLQI score 9.4 ± 6.2). Factors associated with itch aggravation were dry skin (p-value = 0.003) and heat and humidity (p-value = 0.042). The results of binary logistic regression revealed that factors associated with moderate-to-extremely large DLQI scores were itch intensity (no-to-mild vs. moderate-to-severe itch: odds ratio [OR] = 13.33; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.72–65.32, p < 0.001; and adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 31.17; 95% CI = 4.55–213.36; p < 0.001. Conclusions Our findings revealed that the quality of life among patients with psoriasis is their greatest concern. Eliminating the itch intensity that affects their quality of life is crucial but remains challenging in Thailand.
Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales/Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) in Indonesia: protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kadariswantiningsih Ika N. , Empitu Maulana A. , Idrisov Bulat , Rampengan Derren David Christian Homenta , Ramadhan Roy Novri
Published: October 2024

Abstract Background Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) pose a significant global health threat, with increasing prevalence worldwide, including in Indonesia. Despite the public health impact, comprehensive data on the burden of CRE in Indonesia remains fragmented. This protocol outlines a systematic review and meta-analysis aiming to estimate the prevalence of CRE in Indonesia, summarize trends over time, and identify key resistance mechanisms. Methods We will conduct a systematic search across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and local Indonesian databases, for studies reporting the prevalence of CRE in Indonesia from 2008 to 2024. Eligibility criteria include observational studies (cross-sectional, cohort, and case-control) and surveillance reports. Data extraction will focus on CRE prevalence, bacterial species, sample types, resistance mechanisms, and study settings (hospital vs. community). Quality assessment of studies will be performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Meta-analysis will be conducted using a random-effects model to estimate pooled prevalence, and subgroup analysis will explore variations by geographical region, period, and healthcare setting. Discussion This systematic review and meta-analysis will provide the first comprehensive overview of CRE prevalence in Indonesia, contributing to an improved understanding of the national burden and resistance patterns. The findings will guide public health policies and inform antimicrobial stewardship efforts in Indonesia. Registration PROSPERO CRD42024580177
The genome sequence of the harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas, 1773)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Crowley Liam M. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Harmonia axyridis (the harlequin ladybird; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Coccinellidae). The genome sequence is 426 megabases in span. The majority (99.98%) of the assembly is scaffolded into 8 chromosomal pseudomolecules, with the X sex chromosome assembled.
Statistical analysis plan for the Petal trial: the effects of parental touch on relieving acute procedural pain in neonates
Authors: Baxter Luke , Hauck Annalisa G.V. , Bhatt Aomesh , Cobo Maria M. , Hartley Caroline , Marchant Simon , Poorun Ravi , van der Vaart Marianne , Slater Rebeccah
Published: October 2024

Background Infants undergo multiple clinically-required painful procedures during their time in hospital, and there is an increasing desire from both parents and clinical staff to have parents directly involved in their newborn’s pain relief. To avoid biases due to selective analysis and reporting, a clinical trial’s statistical analysis plan (SAP) should be finalised and registered prior to dataset lock and unblinding. Here, we outline the SAP for the Petal trial, which was registered on the ISRCTN registry prior to dataset lock and unblinding. Methods The Petal trial is a multicentre, individually randomised, parallel-group interventional superiority trial. The study involves in-patient neonates born at or after 35+0 weeks gestation with a postnatal age of ≤7 days, in two hospital research sites (John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK; Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, UK). The primary objective is to investigate the potential efficacy of a non-pharmacological parent-led stroking intervention on reducing the magnitude of neonates’ noxious stimulus-evoked brain activity. The primary outcome is the neonate’s brain activity recorded using electroencephalography (EEG) in response to a heel lance blood sampling procedure. Secondary outcomes include neonatal clinical pain scores and tachycardia, and parental anxiety. The study hypothesis is neonates’ pain responses and parents’ anxiety scores are lower in the intervention group. Randomisation will be via a minimisation algorithm to maintain balance in five prognostic factors. Conclusions Paediatric pain trials have been highlighted by regulatory bodies as an important and challenging topic, with interest increasing in brain imaging outcomes. The Petal trial, to which this SAP relates, is part of a larger effort of establishing a brain-based EEG outcome measure of infant pain for use in clinical trials. This SAP is thus likely to be of interest to those in academia, pharmaceutical companies, and regulatory bodies. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04901611, 25/05/2021; ISRCTN: ISRCTN14135962, 23/08/2021).
The genome sequence of a metallic wood-boring beetle, Agrilus cyanescens (Ratzeburg, 1837)
Authors: Telfer Mark G. , Phillips Dominic ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Agrilus cyanescens (metallic wood-boring beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Buprestidae). The genome sequence is 292.3 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 10 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.91 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of the Atlantic mackerel, Scomber scombrus Linnaeus, 1758
Authors: Brennan Mitchell , Bird Kimberly , Zancker Birthe , Modepali Vengamanaidu , Adkins Patrick ,   Marine Biological Association Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual Scomber scombrus (the Atlantic mackerel; Chordata; Actinopteri; Scombriformes; Scombridae). The genome sequence has a total length of 764.10 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 24 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.56 kilobases in length.
Hydronephrosis Associated with Cervical Cancer Case Report on Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management
Authors: Stolarek Kacper , Kowalczyk Emilia , Szarek Mateusz , Andrzejak Alicja , Olszewski Hubert
Published: October 2024

Introduction and Purpose
Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignancies in women, accounting for the fourth most common cancer worldwide and the sixth in Poland. Despite advances in diagnosis and prevention, the condition is still associated with a high mortality rate, especially in advanced stages. One of the significant complications of advanced cervical cancer is hydronephrosis, occurring in about 23% of patients. Hydronephrosis develops as a result of blocked urine outflow, which leads to stretching of the renal calyces and can result in renal failure if not properly treated. Management strategies for hydronephrosis include ureteral stenting and percutaneous nephrostomy, both of which are effective in draining the kidneys and improving patient outcomes.
 
Aim of the study
This article discusses the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of hydronephrosis in patients with cervical cancer, and presents a detailed case report of a patient with advanced cervical cancer complicated by hydronephrosis and renal perforation.
 
Results and Future directions
The patient was admitted to the urology department for bleeding into the retroperitoneal space after renal fistula replacement. During hospitalization, despite numerous complications, the patient's condition stabilized after blood and plasma transfusions, intensive antibiotic therapy and renal fistula re-implantation. The final results of the treatment were successful, and the patient was discharged with appropriate recommendations. The study highlights the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment of hydronephrosis to improve the prognosis of patients with cervical cancer. It underscores the need for multidisciplinary collaboration involving urologists, oncologists and other specialists to provide comprehensive care tailored to the patient's evolving needs.
Botulinum Toxin Type A: A Therapeutic Alternative for Trigeminal Neuralgia – A Literature-Based Overview
Authors: Wierzejska Natalia , Domański Mikołaj , Kopczyńska Barbara , Czyżniewska Oliwia , Czupryńska Karolina , Otręba Karina , Szałajska Julia , Wojcieszek Maria
Published: October 2024

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) stands as one of the most prevalent forms of craniofacial pain. It commonly targets the areas supplied by the maxillary or mandibular divisions of the trigeminal nerve. Even the slightest stimulation, such as gentle touch can result in severe pain and incapacitation for the patient.
The etiology of TN encompasses idiopathic, classic, and secondary classifications. The most common form is the classical type.
Carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine are typically the initial pharmacological interventions prescribed for TN, offering relief for many individuals. Considering evidence of varying quality, medications such as lamotrigine, gabapentin, botulinum toxin type A, pregabalin, baclofen, and phenytoin could be viable options, either alone or in combination with carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine, if initial treatments prove ineffective or intolerable. Botulinum toxin type A therapy has shown high efficacy without severe adverse events in alleviating pain in patients with trigeminal neuralgia.
This article aims to provide a literature-based overview of trigeminal neuralgia, outlining its unique characteristics, etiology, epidemiology, classification, and management especially using botulinum neurotoxin A.
Discurso colonial em vídeos de reação de estrangeiros: uma análise de representações de Brasil.
Authors: Rebouças Davi
Published: October 2024

Este trabalho investiga as construções de sentido em espaços on-line sobre a cultura brasileira a partir de vídeos de reação de estrangeiros que abordam bens culturais do Brasil em suas narrativas. Foca-se nas práticas discursivas e sociais atravessadas por marcas de colonialidade (Quijano, 2005; Mignolo, 2017) que podem ser observadas nesses conteúdos. São examinados, especificamente, os vídeos de estrangeiros que têm como objeto-pauta músicas brasileiras de diferentes gêneros. Para isso, emprega-se a Análise de Discurso Crítica (Fairclough, 2001; 2012) como abordagem metodológica, enfocando a dimensão discursiva como prática social. Através das análises, identificouse que os youtubers buscam diversidade na representação da brasilidade por meio da música, embora gêneros musicais periféricos sejam mais presentes nesses vídeos de reação dos estrangeiros. Já nas interações dos brasileiros nos comentários, percebeu-se uma presença mais evidente da ideologia colonialista, que hierarquiza culturas, sujeitos, saberes e formas de vida, reforçando estereótipos e estigmas, embora ocorra em menor número em comparação aos elogios. Identificou-se também uma valorização de gêneros musicais como MPB e sertanejo, em detrimento do funk, muitas vezes percebido como uma manifestação cultural inferior. Conclui-se que os vídeos de reação podem ser compreendidos como uma expressão das tensões entre a cultura colonial e o entretenimento, uma vez que têm o potencial de manter padrões coloniais de pensamento ao apresentarem uma perspectiva externa e exótica sobre a cultura retratada, reforçando estereótipos, simplificações de uma visão colonizada e relações desiguais de poder.
Development of the GeoGebra’s Guidebook in Creating Mathematics Learning Media Based on Ethnomathematics
Authors: Lekitoo John Nandito , Kurniati MA Ratnah , Sugiarto Sigit , Dahoklory Andy Sunder Keer , Inuhan Michael , Rupilele Karolina
Published: October 2024

This research aims to develop a guidebook for the use of GeoGebra in creating mathematics learning media based on ethnomathematics for university students in mathematics education study program at Pattimura University PSDKU Maluku Barat Daya. The method used in this research is Research and Development (R&D) with 4D model developed by Thiagarajan et al. (1974) which consists of 4 stages, namely Define, Design, Develop and Disseminate. This method and model are very feasible and systematically supports the development of the guidebook. By involving 2 validators, namely material experts and linguists, the draft of the guidebook was then revised and tested on a small limited group. Furthermore, based on descriptive statistical analysis and qualitative descriptive analysis, it can be concluded that the reference book using GeoGebra has been successfully prepared and meets the criteria of valid and effective. In addition, the use of this guidebook can also increase students' knowledge in understanding material related to cartesian coordinates, especially in drawing graphs of linear functions, quadratic functions, polynomials, trigonometric functions, exponent functions, and logarithms.
Distribution of the prime numbers
Authors: Khalil Lolav Ahmed
Published: October 2024

This research explores the distribution of prime numbers, which are a fundamental topic in number theory. The study originated from the author's fascination with mathematics and the desire to discover something novel. The research proposes that the distribution of prime numbers follows a regular pattern starting from the number 2. The author suggests that prime numbers can be obtained by dividing certain even numbers that have four factors by the number 2, resulting in prime numbers in sequential order. This hypothesis was tested and confirmed through the practical application of the proposed mathematical formula. Additionally, the study found that even numbers greater than or equal to 8, with six or more factors, produce complex numbers. Thus, this research provides two main contributions: firstly, a mathematical formula for the distribution of prime numbers, and secondly, a formula for the distribution of complex numbers. These findings have potential applications in various mathematical fields, including cryptography and problem-solving in number theory.
Transformational leadership on work engagement: The mediating role of work-life balance
Authors: Setyono Hendro , Adawiyah Wiwiek Rabiatul , Fitriani Syifa
Published: October 2024

Implementing a suitable leadership style can increase work engagement. Work-life balance is necessary to support transformational leadership in improving work engagement. This study examines how transformational leadership affects work engagement, using work-life balance as a mediating factor. 44 respondents represent the study's sample, and the population focus is Yogyakarta Industry and Trade Agency employees. The study's findings show that transformational leadership positively influences work engagement. Work-life balance is positively influenced by transformational leadership. Work engagement is positively influenced by work-life balance. Transformational leadership and work engagement are mediated by work-life balance.
EEG Classification for Brain Response Analysis through University Website Interface in Yogyakarta Using Naive Bayes and KNN
Authors: Suhail Faiq , Azhari Ahmad
Published: October 2024

One of the challenges high school students face is the abundant availability of information about various campuses through different media, making it difficult to accurately predict their interest in a particular campus. Electroencephalogram (EEG) technology can read human brain activity, such as when students access information on a campus website. The Naive Bayes and K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) methods can be employed to predict student interest in a campus based on EEG signals recorded while they browse the official campus website. Naive Bayes is known for achieving high accuracy with small datasets, whereas KNN excels at classifying noisy data. These two methods offer variables that can be directly compared. Classification using Naive Bayes and KNN achieved the highest accuracy score of 92%. The most appropriate algorithm is determined by evaluating performance using a confusion matrix. In this case study, Naive Bayes slightly outperformed KNN, as evidenced by precision, recall, and f1-score matrices. The Naive Bayes method resulted in an F1-score of 94%, compared to KNN’s 92%.
Hybrid ABC–K Means for Optimal Cluster Number Determination in Unlabeled Data
Authors: Rosyid Harunur , Bin Lakulu Muhammad Modi , Bt. Mailok Ramlah
Published: October 2024

This study presents the ABC K Means GenData algorithm, an enhancement over traditional K Means clustering that integrates the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) optimization approach. The ABC K Means GenData algorithm addresses the issue of local optima commonly encountered in standard K Means algorithms, offering improved exploration and exploitation strategies. By utilizing the dynamic roles of employed, onlooker, and scout bees, this approach effectively navigates the clustering space for categorical data. Performance evaluations across several datasets demonstrate the algorithm's superiority. For the Zoo dataset, ABC K Means GenData achieved high Accuracy (0.8399), Precision (0.8089), and Recall (0.7286), with consistent performance compared to K Means and Fuzzy K Means. Similar results were observed for the Breast Cancer dataset, where it matched the Accuracy and Precision of K Means and surpassed Fuzzy K Means in Precision and Recall. In the Soybean dataset, the algorithm also performed excellently, showing top scores in Accuracy, Precision, Recall, and Rand Index (RI), outperforming both K Means and Fuzzy K Means.. The comprehensive results indicate that ABC K Means GenData excels in clustering categorical data, providing robust and reliable performance. Future research will explore its application to mixed data types and social media datasets, aiming to further optimize clustering techniques.
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Ultracompact optical microscopes made of liquid crystal Pancharatnam–Berry optical elements
Authors: Chen Hao , Yun Hai , Jiang Miao , Wei Qi-Huo
Published: October 2024

Ultracompact optical systems are increasingly sought after for applications such as consumer electronics and medical imaging. Here, we present a design and manufacturing approach for ultracompact bright- and dark-field optical microscopes entirely made of flat liquid crystal optical elements. Both systems utilize liquid crystal PB lenses as objective and tube lenses, while the dark-field optical microscope incorporates an additional Q-plate with a +1 topological defect to filter zero-order light. We demonstrate two optical microscopic systems with a numerical aperture of 0.25 and overall thickness of just 5 mm. The system can achieve high imaging performance with a resolution better than 7 µm. We further demonstrate an exemplary application in biological imaging to effectively enhance edge contrast in imaging onion epidermal cells. This work presents an example in exploiting the flatness and high quality of liquid crystal optical elements to achieve compactness and high-quality imaging promising for various applications.
UOWC spatial diversity techniques over hostile maritime environments: an approach under imperfect CSI and per-source power constraints
Authors: Salcedo-Serrano Pedro , Boluda-Ruiz Rubén , Garrido-Balsells José María , García-Zambrana Antonio , Castillo-Vázquez Beatriz , Puerta-Notario Antonio , Hranilovic Steve
Published: October 2024

Optical communication in submarine environments has emerged as a novel technology that enables high bandwidth and high data rate links. However, the unique characteristics of the underwater channel impose new challenges, such as mitigating the remarkable absorption and scattering of hostile maritime environments. For the first time, we consider a per-source optical power constraint based on eye-safety regulations, which has never before been taken into account in Multiple-Input/Single-Output (MISO) systems within underwater optical wireless communication (UOWC) scenarios. Hence, we introduce an innovative spatial repetition coding (SRC) system model, which enables the analysis of an SRC scheme operating under either a per-source or a per-transmitter power constraint. In addition, a tractable generalized transmit laser selection (GTLS) model is presented in order to consider the impact of erroneous selections of the best laser source due to imperfect channel state information (CSI) at the transmitter, prevalent in underwater scenarios with dynamic fluctuations from water currents. Novel bit error rate closed-form expressions and asymptotic results are derived. The presented results demonstrate that an SRC system, when appropriately designed under a per-source power constraint, outperforms the TLS system by effectively mitigating the adverse effects of underwater links. Conversely, in situations where compact transmitters necessitate constraints that significantly modify eye-safety, TLS schemes are superior.
Size-dependent competitive effect between surface recombination and self-heat on efficiency droop for 250 nm AlGaN-based DUV LEDs
Authors: Tian Kangkai , Jiang Yao , Li Wenjie , Wang Linhao , Chu Chunshuang , Zhang Yonghui , Sun Xiao Wei , Zhang Zi-Hui
Published: October 2024

In this work, electrical and optical performances for 250 nm AlGaN-based flip-chip deep ultraviolet light emitting diodes (DUV LEDs) with different chip sizes are studied. Reduced chip size helps increase the light extraction efficiency (LEE) with the cost of increased surface nonradiative recombination. Nevertheless, a thin p-Al0.67-0Ga0.33-1N layer of 10 nm can manage current distribution while suppressing surface recombination and reducing light absorption simultaneously, which results in the increased optical power density. Thanks to the better current management and reduced optical self-absorption effect, the reduced Joule heating effect suppresses the thermal droop of the optical power density for a small DUV LED chip. We also find that the p-Al0.67-0Ga0.33-1N layer thickness shows very significant impact on device resistance especially for the small DUV LED chip, such that the device resistance has a remarkable increase when the p-Al0.67-0Ga0.33-1N layer is thickened to 100 nm.
Self-mixing thin sliced ruby laser for laser Doppler velocimetry with high optical sensitivity
Authors: Sudo Seiichi , Otsuka Kenju
Published: October 2024

In self-mixing laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV), the motion of a moving target is observed by using intensity-modulated laser light detected by a simple photodetector. Here, the self-mixing laser output modulation takes place, reflecting the pronounced effective loss modulation index, which is proportional to the fluorescence-to-photon lifetime ratio. The fluorescence lifetime of a ruby laser is extremely long, so if a ruby crystal can be used as a laser light source for a self-mixing LDV system, high-sensitivity LDV measurements can be performed with it. We describe a method for velocimetry of moving targets using self-mixing LDV in which a CW oscillating ruby laser is the light source. The oscillation mechanism of the thin-slice ruby laser with a large fluorescence-to-photon lifetime ratio, which is suitable for LDV measurements, is clarified and the results of highly sensitive LDV measurements are presented, featuring nonlinear dynamics observed associated with the self-mixing velocimetry experiment.
Developing standards for virtual delivery of mental health services in Canadian primary care: A qualitative study and modified Delphi process
Authors: Yusuf Abban , Salvalaggio Ginetta , Melamed Osnat , Montesanti Stephanie , Atherton Helen , Langford Lucie , Sediqzadah Saadia , Amaral Tamara Do , O’Neill Braden
Published: October 2024

In Canada, public health measures necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a rapid onset and prolonged, widespread increase in the use of virtual primary care services, including for mental health conditions. Our aim was to develop standards on virtual delivery of mental health services in primary care in Canada using information obtained from an earlier rapid review as well as participant feedback obtained through interviews and a focus group. We developed standards using three interlinked processes. First, we completed a rapid review of guidelines regarding virtual primary mental health care services. We then invited health care workers and people with lived experience of mental health concerns to participate in a focus group and interviews. Finally, members of the study team drafted standards and shared them with an advisory group, who reviewed their feasibility, phrasing, and acceptability through a modified Delphi process. Standards ranked as having less than 100% feasibility and acceptability were brought to a virtual discussion of the advisory group to finalize the list. Seven participants were recruited into the focus group and interviews. We identified three themes: (i) patients’ and providers’ agreement about expectations regarding virtual care, (ii) accessibility and equity, and (iii) safety planning in the delivery of virtual care. We drafted 18 standards on virtual primary mental health care delivery that were reviewed by an advisory group of identified experts. Thirteen standards were included in the final list. The standards bring attention to continuity of care, and resources and information that should be given to patients to further health equity. These standards provide guidance for the organization and delivery of virtual mental health services in Canadian and international primary care, particularly within the context of single payer health systems.
The RECONCILE study protocol: Exploiting image-based risk stratification in early prostate cancer to discriminate progressors from non-progressors (RECONCILE)
Authors: Marsden Teresa , Attard Gerhardt , Punwani Shonit , Giganti Francesco , Freeman Alex , Haider Aiman , Wingate Anna , Williams Norman , Syer Tom , Pashayan Nora , Moore Caroline M. , Emberton Mark , Orczyk Clement
Published: October 2024

Introduction

RECONCILE (ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT04340245) will identify molecular and radiomic markers associated with clinical progression and radiological progression events in a cohort of localised, newly diagnosed Gleason 3 + 4 tumours. Molecular markers will be correlated against standard of care MRI-targeted histology and oncological outcomes.

Methods

RECONCILE is an ethics approved (20/LO/0366) single centre, prospective, longitudinal, observational cohort study of recently diagnosed (within 12 months), organ-confined Gleason 3 + 4 cancers (MCCL ≤10mm) currently under active surveillance. 60 treatment-naïve participants with a concordant MRI lesion (Likert score 4 or 5) and PSA ≤ 15 ng/ml will be recruited.

Blood, urine and targeted prostate tissue cores will be subject to next generation sequencing at baseline and one year in all participants. Semen will be collected from a specified sub-population. Baseline and interval MR images will be extracted from standard of care prostate MRI ahead of radiomic analysis. Data extracted from radiological and biological samples will be used to derive the association of molecular change and radiological progression, the primary outcome of the study.

To compensate for spatial intratumoral heterogeneity and inherent sampling bias, a molecular index will be derived for each participant using the molecular profile of tumour tissue at both baseline (MolBL) and one year (MolFU). We will extract a ΔMolBL:MolFU score for each participant. Molecular progression will be defined as a MolBL:MolFU score >95% CI of the combined ΔMolBL scores. Radiological progression is defined as a PRECISE score of 4 or 5. The study is powered to detect an association with a statistical power of 80%.

Results

Recruitment began in July 2020 (n = 62). To date, 37 participants have donated tissue for analysis.

Conclusion

We have designed and implemented a prospective, longitudinal study to evaluate the underlying molecular landscape of intermediate risk, MR-visible prostate tumours. Recruitment is ongoing.
Human reliability of the intelligent construction site tower crane driver interface based on DEMATEL-ISM-BN
Authors: Lixia Niu , Si Wen
Published: October 2024

With the arrival of Industry 4.0, intelligent construction sites have seen significant development in China. However, accidents involving digitized tower cranes equipped with smart systems continue to occur frequently. Among the main causes of these accidents is human unsafe behavior. To assess the human factors reliability of intelligent construction site tower cranes, it is necessary to shift the safety focus to the human-machine interface and identify patterns of human error behaviors among tower crane drivers through text mining techniques (TF-IDF-TruncatedSVD-ComplementNB). Based on the SHEL model, the behavioral factors influencing human factors reliability in the human-machine interface are categorized and a Performance Shaping Factors (PSF) system is constructed. Building on the foundation of constructing an indicator system for human factors error influence in the driver interface of intelligent construction site tower cranes, the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method is combined with the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) to analyze the importance of various factors in causing human errors and to analyze the logical structure among these factors. Simultaneously, a Bayesian network is constructed using a multi-level hierarchical structural model, thus establishing a new evaluation method for the human-machine interface. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated through Bayesian network causal inference based on real case studies. The results demonstrate that the evaluation process of this method aligns with the operational scenarios of tower crane drivers in intelligent construction sites. It not only allows for quantifying the likelihood of human errors but also enables the development of targeted measures for controlling unsafe behaviors among tower crane drivers in intelligent construction sites.
Effectiveness of different sounds in human echolocation in live tests
Authors: Bujacz Michał , Królak Aleksandra , Sztyler Bartłomiej , Skulimowski Piotr , Strumiłło Paweł
Published: October 2024

Echolocation is a vital method of spatial orientation for many visually impaired individuals who are willing to and able to learn it. Blind echolocators use a variety of sounds, such as mouth clicks, cane taps, or specialized sound-emitting devices, to perceive their surroundings. In our study, we examined the effectiveness of several different sounds used in echolocation by conducting trials with 12 blind and 14 sighted volunteers. None of the participants had received formal training in echolocation, though a number identified as self-taught experts. The sounds tested included those played from a loudspeaker, generated by a mechanical clicker, or made by the participants themselves. The task given to the participants was to identify the direction and distance to an obstacle measuring 1x2 meters in an outdoor environment, with the obstacle placed in one of nine possible positions. Our findings indicated that the blind participants displayed significantly better echolocation skills when compared to the sighted participants. The results of the blind participants were also strongly divided into two distinct subgroups—totally blind participants performed much better than those which were legally blind, but had some residual vision. In terms of sound comparisons, we found that sounds with a center frequency near 3-4kHz and a wide spectrum provided higher accuracy rates than those with lower frequency peaks. Sighted participants performed best with 3kHz and 4kHz percussion sounds, while the blind group performed best with blue and pink noise. The loudspeaker generated tones generally yielded better results than those generated by the participant (using a mechanical clicker, mouth clicks or hand claps). These results may be useful in developing training programs that teach echolocation as well as artificial sounds to improve echolocation effectiveness.