bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A double-masked, sham-controlled trial of rose bengal photodynamic therapy for the treatment of fungal and acanthamoeba keratitis: Rose Bengal Electromagnetic Activation with Green Light for Infection Reduction (REAGIR) study
Authors: Prajna NV , Lalitha P , Sharma S , de Freitas D , Höfling-Lima A , Varnado N , Abdelrahman S , Cavallino V , Arnold BF , Lietman TM , Rose-Nussbaumer J
Published: August 2024

Background

Infectious keratitis secondary to fungus or acanthamoeba often has a poor outcome despite receiving the best available medical therapy. In vitro rose bengal photodynamic therapy (RB-PDT) appears to be effective against fungal and acanthamoeba isolates (Atalay HT et al., Curr Eye Res 43:1322–5, 2018, Arboleda A et al. Am J Ophthalmol 158:64-70, 2014). In one published series, RB-PDT reduced the need for therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty in severe bacterial, fungal, and acanthamoeba keratitis not responsive to medical therapy.

Methods

This international, randomized, sham and placebo controlled 2-arm clinical trial randomizes patients with smear positive fungal and acanthamoeba and smear negative corneal ulcers in a 1:1 fashion to one of two treatment arms: 1) topical antimicrobial plus sham RB-PDT or 2) topical antimicrobial plus RB-PDT.

Discussion

We anticipate that RB-PDT will improve best spectacle-corrected visual acuity and also reduce complications such as corneal perforation and the need for therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty. This study will comply with the NIH Data Sharing Policy and Policy on the Dissemination of NIH-Funded Clinical Trial Information and the Clinical Trials Registration and Results Information Submission rule. Our results will be disseminated via ClinicalTrials.gov website, meetings, and journal publications. Our data will also be available upon reasonable request.

Trial registration

NCT, NCT05110001, Registered on November 5, 2021.
Intra- and interspecific variation of Amblyomma ticks from southern Africa
Authors: Smit Andeliza , Mulandane Fernando , Labuschagne Martinet , Wójick Stephané Heike , Malabwa Choolwe , Sili Gourgelia , Mandara Stephen , Dlamkile Zinathi , Ackermann Rebecca , Rose Vineer Hannah , Stoltsz Wilhelm Heinrich , Huber Karine , Horak Ivan Gerard , Morar-Leather Darshana , Makepeace Benjamin Lawrence , Neves Luis
Published: August 2024

Background

Amblyomma spp. ticks, known for their long mouthparts, bright ornate appearance and aggressive hunting behaviour, are vectors of a number of important pathogens. In southern Africa, 17 Amblyomma spp. are currently documented. Of these species, Amblyomma hebraeum and Amblyomma variegatum have been well studied due to their wide geographical range and their status as competent vectors of pathogens that are of veterinary and medical importance. Studies on other Amblyomma spp. in southern Africa have been neglected, fostering ongoing debates on the validity of certain species such as Amblyomma pomposum. This study investigated the inter- and intra-species variation of Amblyomma ticks collected in southern Africa, focusing on resolving the dispute about A. pomposum and A. variegatum being distinct species.

Methods

Four Amblyomma tick species were collected from Angola, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe, and were identified morphologically as Amblyomma eburneum (208), A. hebraeum (4758), A. pomposum (191) and A. variegatum (2577) using identification keys. Gene amplification targeting the 12S and 16S rRNA, cytochrome oxidase I, cytochrome B and internal transcribed spacer-2 genes was conducted for 204 ticks, for which varying success was achieved during amplification for each of the markers. Maximum likelihood analyses were performed in IQ-TREE.

Results

The phylogenetic topologies and ABGD analyses of each individual gene clustered A. pomposum within the A. variegatum clade, while clearly separating A. eburneum and A. hebraeum from all other species. None of the genetic markers indicated intraspecific structuring on the basis of geographical origin, despite great distances between sampling sites.

Conclusion

Our study concludes that there is insufficient molecular evidence to differentiate A. pomposum and A. variegatum from each other. We highlight the need for whole mitochondrial genome sequencing of these two species to resolve the ongoing controversies. Furthermore, we propose mating and hybrid viability studies between the two species to confirm their reproductive isolation.

Graphical Abstract
Validation of the C-X-C chemokine receptor 3 (CXCR3) as a target for PET imaging of T cell activation
Authors: Martin Sebastian , Wendlinger Lennard , Zitti Béatrice , Hicham Mehdi , Postupalenko Viktoriia , Marx Léo , Giordano-Attianese Greta , Cribioli Elisabetta , Irving Melita , Litvinenko Alexandra , Faizova Radmila , Viertl David , Schottelius Margret
Published: August 2024

Purpose

CXCR3 is expressed on activated T cells and plays a crucial role in T-cell recruitment to the tumor microenvironment (TME) during cell-based and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy. This study utilized a 64Cu-labeled NOTA-α-CXCR3 antibody to assess CXCR3 expression in the TME and validate it as a potential T cell activation biomarker in vivo.

Procedures

CXCR3+ cells infiltrating MC38 tumors (B57BL/6 mice, untreated and treated with αPD-1/αCTLA-4 ICI) were quantified using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. A commercial anti-mouse CXCR3 antibody (α-CXCR3) was site-specifically conjugated with 2,2,2-(1,4,7-triazacyclononane-1,4,7-triyl)triacetic acid (NOTA) and radiolabeled with 64Cu. Saturation binding of [64Cu]Cu-NOTA-α-CXCR3 was investigated using CHO cells stably transfected with murine CXCR3. Biodistribution and PET imaging studies both at baseline and after 1 to 3 cycles of ICI, respectively, were carried out using different molar activities (10 GBq/µmol to 300 GBq/µmol) of [64Cu]Cu-NOTA-α-CXCR3.

Results

Flow cytometry analysis at baseline confirmed the presence of CXCR3 + T-cells in MC38 tumors, which was significantly increased at day five after ICI (treated 33.8 ± 17.4 vs. control 8.8 ± 6.2 CD3+CXCR3+ cells/mg). These results were qualitatively and quantitatively confirmed by immunofluorescence of tumor cryoslices. In vivo PET imaging of MC38 tumor bearing mice before, during and after ICI using [64Cu]Cu-NOTA-α-CXCR3 (Kd = 3.3 nM) revealed a strong dependence of CXCR3-specificity of tracer accumulation in secondary lymphoid organs on molar activity. At 300 GBq/µmol (1.5 µg of antibody/mouse), a specific signal was observed in lymph nodes (6.33 ± 1.25 control vs. 3.95 ± 1.23%IA/g blocking) and the spleen (6.04 ± 1.02 control vs. 3.84 ± 0.79%IA/g blocking) at 48 h p.i. Spleen-to-liver ratios indicated a time dependent systemic immune response showing a steady increase from 1.08 ± 0.19 (untreated control) to 1.54 ± 0.14 (three ICI cycles).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the feasibility of in vivo imaging of CXCR3 upregulation under immunotherapy using antibodies. However, high molar activities and low antibody doses are essential for sensitive detection in lymph nodes and spleen. Detecting therapy-induced changes in CXCR3+ T cell numbers in tumors was challenging due to secondary antibody-related effects. Nonetheless, CXCR3 remains a promising target for imaging T cell activation, with anticipated improvements in sensitivity using alternative tracers with high affinities and favorable pharmacokinetics.
Validation of the PCL-5 in Dutch trauma-exposed adults
Authors: Hoeboer Chris M. , Karaban Irina , Karchoud Jeanet F. , Olff Miranda , van Zuiden Mirjam
Published: August 2024

Background

The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) is an internationally widely used self-report questionnaire that can be used to screen for probable diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Information on the psychometric properties of the Dutch PCL-5 is currently lacking.

Objective

We aimed to validate the Dutch PCL-5 in a sample of Dutch adults with prior (suspected) serious injury and establish the optimal cut-off for probable PTSD diagnosis herein.

Methods

Data for the current study were collected as part of a long-term follow-up measurement of the TraumaTIPS cohort, where adults admitted to an emergency department following (suspected) serious injury completed a follow-up measurement 12–15 years post-trauma. OfN = 333 eligible participants,n = 192 (57.7%) consented and completed the PCL-5 alongside self-report instruments measuring depression (QIDS), PTSD (IES-R), and quality of life (WHO-QOL and EQ-6D). In total,n = 185 participants also completed a clinician administered interview for PTSD (CAPS-5). Most participants were men (66%) and on average 54 years old (SD = 12.41). We evaluated the diagnostic utility of the PCL-5 using Youden index and tested reliability and convergent validity.

Results

The PCL-5 demonstrated excellent diagnostic accuracy with a cut-off point of 16 resulting in an optimal Youden index (0.90) for screening purposes with a high sensitivity (1.00) and specificity (0.90). A cut-off of 22 yielded a slightly lower Youden index (0.84) but better positive predictive value (0.50 instead of 0.33) than the cut-off of 16. A cut-off of 29 resulted in the most accurate prevalence estimates. The PCL-5 showed a high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.94), excellent inter-item and item-total correlations and good convergent validity (r > .5 for CAPS-5, IES-R and QIDS).

Conclusions

The PCL-5 is a reliable and valid measurement for PTSD symptoms and probable diagnosis and shows excellent screening abilities in Dutch adults with prior (suspected) serious injury, with a lower optimal cut-off compared to previously found in clinical populations. We recommend a cut-off of 22 for screening purposes and a cut-off of 29 for prevalence estimates in Dutch trauma-exposed adults.
Oak seedling microbiome assembly under climate warming and drought
Authors: Hoefle Daniel , Sommer Milena , Wassermann Birgit , Faticov Maria , Serra Demetrio , Berg Gabriele , Tack Ayco J.M. , Abdelfattah Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Despite that climate change is currently one of the most pervasive challenges, its effects on the plant-associated microbiome is still poorly studied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the independent and combinatory effect of climate warming and drought on the microbiome assembly of oak from seed to seedling. In a multifactorial experimental set up, acorns were subjected to different temperatures (15 °C, 20 °C, and 25 °C) and soil moisture levels (drought (15%) and control (60%)) from germination until the seedling stage, after which the bacterial and fungal communities associated to the rhizosphere and phyllosphere were characterized by amplicon sequencing and qPCR. The results showed a stronger effect of temperature on fungal than on bacterial diversity and the effect was more pronounced in the phyllosphere. Under drought condition, temperature had a significantly negative effect on phyllosphere fungal diversity. In the rhizosphere, temperature had a significant effect on the fungal community composition which was primarily caused by species turnover. Regardless of temperature, Actinobacteriota was significantly enriched in drought, a group of bacteria known to increase plant drought tolerance. This study provides new insights into the effect of climate change on the plant microbiome in natural ecosystems.
Effect of Time-Restricted Eating on β-Cell Function in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kramer Caroline Kaercher , Zinman Bernard , Feig Denice S , Retnakaran Ravi
Published: August 2024

Context

Time-restricted eating (TRE), which consists of restricting the eating window to typically 4 to 8 hours (while fasting for the remaining hours of the day), has been proposed as a nonpharmacological strategy with cardiometabolic benefits but little is known about its metabolic effect on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Objective

We evaluated whether TRE can improve pancreatic β-cell function and metabolic status in overweight individuals with early T2DM.

Methods

In a randomized, crossover trial, 39 participants (mean 2.9 years of diabetes duration, baseline glycated hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c] 6.6% ± 0.7% and body mass index [BMI] 32.4 ± 5.7) were randomly assigned to either an initial intervention consisting of 6 weeks of TRE (20 h-fasting/4 h-eating) or standard lifestyle. The primary outcome of β-cell function was assessed by the Insulin Secretion-Sensitivity Index-2 (ISSI-2) derived from an oral glucose tolerance test.

Results

As compared to standard lifestyle, TRE induced a 14% increase in ISSI-2 (+14.0 ± 39.2%; P = .03) accompanied by a 14% reduction of hepatic insulin resistance as evaluated by HOMA-IR (−11.6% [−49.3 to 21.9]; P = .03). Fasting glucose did not differ between interventions, but TRE yielded a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c (−0.32 ± 0.48%; P < .001). These metabolic improvements were coupled with a reduction of body weight of 3.86% (−3.86 ± 3.1%; P < .001) and waist circumference of 3.8 cm (−3.8 ± 7.5 cm; P = .003).

Conclusion

TRE improved β-cell function and insulin resistance in overweight patients with early diabetes, accompanied by beneficial effects on adiposity.
Total and Regional Fat-To-Muscle Mass Ratio in Relation to All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality in Men and Women
Authors: Xu Minzhi , Gong Yanhong , Yin Xiaoxv
Published: August 2024

Context

Fat-to-muscle mass ratio (FMR) has been considered a potentially useful indicator for assessing disease risk. However, the association between FMR and risk of death remains inconclusive.

Objective

This work aimed to investigate the associations of FMR (the whole body, trunk, legs, and arms) with all-cause and cause-specific mortality by sex.

Methods

A total of 337 951 participants from the UK Biobank were included. Fat mass and muscle mass were estimated using a bioelectrical impedance assessment device. Cox proportional-hazard regression was applied to explore the associations.

Results

During a median follow-up of 12.58 years, we recorded 22 391 (6.62%) deaths, of which 4427 were from cardiovascular disease, 11 740 from cancer, and 1458 from respiratory disease. We observed associations of different shapes (U-shaped for whole body and trunk, L-shaped for legs, and J-shaped for arms) between FMR and all-cause mortality (P for nonlinearity <.001). Compared with the lowest quintile of whole body and trunk FMR, the all-cause mortality risk was reduced by 12% to 14% and 7% to 15% in men and women in quintiles 2 to 4, respectively. The hazard ratio (HR) associated with arm FMR in men and leg FMR in men and women (quintile 5 vs 1) were 1.14 (95% CI, 1.05-1.23), 0.76 (0.71-0.82), and 0.78 (0.70-0.88) for all-cause mortality, respectively. The associations between FMR and cause-specific mortality were mostly similar to those for all-cause mortality.

Conclusion

Our study revealed statistically significant associations of total and regional FMR with mortality, providing new evidence that FMR may be a potentially useful indicator for assessing mortality risk.
Association Between Serum Remnant Cholesterol Level and Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Histology
Authors: Miyake Teruki , Furukawa Shinya , Matsuura Bunzo , Yoshida Osamu , Kanamoto Ayumi , Miyazaki Masumi , Shiomi Akihito , Nakaguchi Hironobu , Okazaki Yuki , Nakamura Yoshiko , Imai Yusuke , Koizumi Mitsuhito , Watanabe Takao , Yamamoto Yasunori , Koizumi Yohei , Tokumoto Yoshio , Hirooka Masashi , Kumagi Teru , Abe Masanori , Hiasa Yoichi
Published: August 2024

Context

Estimated remnant cholesterol (Rem-C) level, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, is associated with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) diagnosed via ultrasonography. However, the relationship between accurate serum Rem-C level measurements and histological findings of MASLD remains unclear.

Objective

We aimed to elucidate the relationship between accurately measured serum Rem-C levels and histological findings of MASLD.

Design

Cross-sectional single-center observational study.

Methods

We assessed 222 patients (94 men and 128 women; age 20-80) who were diagnosed with MASLD via liver biopsy with available medical history, physical examination, and biochemical measurement data. Serum ester-type cholesterol and free cholesterol contents in the remnant lipoproteins were measured using an enzymatic method.

Results

Serum Rem-C levels were significantly higher in patients with NAFLD activity score (NAS) 5 to 8, >66% steatosis grade, lobular inflammation with ≥5 foci, and many cells/prominent ballooning cells (a contiguous patch of hepatocytes showing prominent ballooning injury) than in patients with NAS 1 to 4, < 33% steatosis grade, lobular inflammation with <2 foci, and few ballooning cells (several scattered balloon cells), respectively. While univariate analysis revealed no significant association between Rem-C levels and advanced fibrosis, a significant association between Rem-C levels and NAS was evident. This relationship remained significant in multivariate analysis adjusted for confounders. Furthermore, in the analysis by sex, these relationships were significant for men but not for women.

Conclusion

High serum Rem-C levels were associated with high NAS but not with fibrosis stage, particularly in men. Controlling serum Rem-C level may improve MASLD activity.
Sex-specific Association of Chronic Proton Pump Inhibitor Use With Reduced Bone Density and Quality
Authors: Bioletto Fabio , Pusterla Alessia , Fraire Federica , Sauro Lorenzo , Presti Michela , Arvat Emanuela , Ghigo Ezio , Procopio Massimo , Barale Marco
Published: August 2024

Context

Chronic use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) has been associated with an increase in bone fragility. However, evidence on the effect of chronic PPI use on bone density is conflicting, and data on bone microarchitectural quality are scarce.

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate whether trabecular bone microarchitecture, assessed by trabecular bone score (TBS), is altered in chronic PPI users. The association between PPI use and bone density was also evaluated as a secondary endpoint.

Methods

We extracted individual patient data from the 2005 to 2008 cycles of the population-based National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), in which lumbar spine dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans were acquired. TBS values were calculated from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry images using a dedicated software. Multivariable linear regression analyses stratified by sex were performed to evaluate the association of chronic PPI use with TBS and bone mineral density (BMD), adjusting for relevant confounders.

Results

A total of 7478 subjects were included (3961 men, 3517 women). After adjustment for relevant confounders, chronic PPI use was associated with a worse bone health profile in men, with lower TBS (−0.039; 95% CI, −0.058 to −0.020; P < .001), lumbar spine T-score (−0.27; 95% CI, −0.51 to −0.04; P = .023), total hip T-score (−0.21; 95% CI, −0.41 to −0.01; P = .041), and femoral neck T-score (−0.22; 95% CI, −0.44 to −0.00; P = .047). Notably, the association between chronic PPI use and degraded TBS remained statistically significant even after further adjustment for BMD at lumbar spine and femoral neck (−0.026; 95% CI, −0.039 to −0.012; P = .001). In contrast, no significant association was observed between chronic PPI use and either TBS or BMD in women.

Conclusion

Chronic PPI use is associated with degraded trabecular bone quality in men, even after adjustment for BMD. No association was observed in women.
Defusing a Paradox to a Hypodox
Authors: Eldridge-Smith Peter
Published: August 2024

One way of resolving a paradox is to defuse it to a hypodox. This way is relatively unknown though. The goal of this paper is to explain this way with varied examples. The hypodoxes are themselves a broad class: both the Truth-teller and the 21st birthday of someone born on 29th February can be construed as hypodoxes. The most familiar kind of relation between paradoxes and hypodoxes is exemplified by the relation between the Liar and the Truth-teller. This article concerns a second kind where a paradox is defused to a hypodox by restricting or rejecting some granted principles. The Liar paradox has this second kind of relation to a Liar hypodox, which will be introduced. In some cases, defusing a paradox to a hypodox is only a partial resolution, as the hypodox itself may then need resolving. Even so, such a partial resolution decomposes a complex problem into more easily understood problems. Moreover, I compare the result of defusing a paradox to a hypodox with the results of resolving paradoxes in other ways. I give four examples. The first is mainly pedagogic, concerning a birthday. The second is a lightweight legal case, presenting a parking voucher paradox. The third is a formal system in which a Liar and Liar-like sentences are hypodoxical. The fourth is a philosophical critique of ways of solving Bertrand’s chord paradox.
Simplified Semantics for Further Relevant Logics I
Authors: Øgaard Tore Fjetland
Published: August 2024

This paper shows that the relevant logics E and Π′ are strongly sound and complete with regards to a version of the “simplified” Routley-Meyer semantics. Such a semantics for E has been thought impossible. Although it is impossible if an admissible rule of E  the rule of restricted assertion or equivalently Ackermann’s δ-rule  is solely added as a primitive rule, it is very much possible when E is axiomatized in the way Anderson and Belnap did.
The simplified semantics for E and Π′ requires unreduced frames. Contra what has been claimed, however, no additional frame component is required over and above what’s required to model other relevant logics such as T and R. It is also shown how to modify the tonicity requirements of the ternary relation so as to allow for the standard truth condition for both fusion – the intensional conjunction ◦ – as well as the converse conditional ←.
impact of physical activity and diet in the treatment of hypothyroidism: A systematic review
Authors: Zduńczyk Wiktoria , Dobosz Anna , Dubińska Michalina , Paduch-Jakubczyk Wiktoria , Bilska Wiktoria , Ciułek Urszula
Published: August 2024

Introduction and Objective: Thyroid diseases constitute a significant health challenge of the 21st century. Due to the growing awareness of the accompanying symptoms and the impact of the proper functioning of the thyroid gland on the overall condition of the body, patients show increasing interest in therapeutic methods. The main aim of the article is to present the impact of physical activity and proper diet on the management of patients with hypothyroidism.
Review and Methods: Review and summary of studies and meta-analysis of studies available in open-source format on Google Scholar, Web of Science and PubMed.
Abbreviated Description of the State of Knowledge: Hypothyroidism is a clinical condition characterized by the insufficient production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. This hormonal deficiency leads to a generalized decrease in metabolic processes. Clinically, hypothyroidism is diagnosed based on elevated serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and decreased levels of free thyroxine (T4). Prevalent symptoms include fatigue, constipation, weight gain, cold intolerance, depression and dry skin. Effective management typically involves hormone replacement therapy with synthetic thyroxine.
Summary: Hypothyroidism is a complex disease influenced by many factors. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended in its treatment, including pharmacological treatment, diet and appropriately selected physical activity. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to improve the physical and mental condition of patients.
Nilai Budaya dalam Upacara Adat “Lodong Me” pada Masyarakat Desa Du, Kabupaten Sikka
Authors: Ivensia Maria , Nuwa Gisela , Natsir Rodja Abdul
Published: August 2024

Perkembangan teknologi saat ini memungkinkan terjadinya perubahan dalam kehidupan budaya masyarakat. Padahal dalam budaya terdapat nilai pendidikan yang luar biasa untuk diwariskan kepada generasi muda. Salah satunya yaitu nilai dalam kebudayaan Lodong Me walaupun sudah sangat minim dilakukan atau dipraktekkan oleh masyarakat. Lodong Me adalah ritual menurunkan anak yang umumnya dilakukan oleh masyarakat di Kabupaten Sikka, khususnya di Desa Du. Dalam pandangan masyarakat Desa Du bahwa Lodong Me sebagai salah satu warisan leluhur maka sangat penting untuk dijaga. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui nilai budaya yang terkandung dalam upacara adat Lodong Me dan upaya untuk melestarikan kebudayaan tersebut. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan deskriptif dan teknik pengumpulan data dalam penelitian ini yaitu melalui observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Teknik analisis data yang dilakukan oleh peneliti dalam melakukan penelitian yaitu reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian diketahui nilai-nilai yang terkandung dalam Upacara adat Lodong Me yaitu nilai kesehatan, nilai transformasi dan nilai keuletan. Adapun upaya yang dilakukan untuk melestarikan kebudayaan Lodong Me yaitu dengan memperkenalkan budaya Lodong Me kepada generasi muda dan masukan budaya Lodong Me dalam pendidikan.
Penerapan Model Example Non-Example dalam Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Peserta Didik pada Pembelajaran Matematika
Authors: Aisyah Novia , Ndori Vinsensius Herianto , Rahmawati Tanti Diah
Published: August 2024

Peningkatan kualitas pendidikan dapat dilihat berdasarkan  kegiatan pembelajaran yang dilaksanakan. Penggunaan media, model atau metode pembelajaran juga perlu diperhatikan sehingga dapat menciptakan proses pembelajaran yang aktif, kreatif, efektif dan efisien serta dapat menciptakan hasil belajar yang maksimal. Pembelajaran Matematika masih dianggap sebagai Pembelajaran yang sulit dan membosankan. Example non-example merupakan model yang dirancang untuk mempengaruhi pola pikir peserta didik agar dapat berkembang sehingga tercipta kondisi pembelajaran yang aktif, menyenangkan, dan meningkatkan keberanian siswa dalam mengemukakan pendapat serta pengetahuannya. Tujuan Penelitian ini untuk mengetahui bagaimana penerapan model example non-example dalam meningkatkan hasil belajar peserta didik pada pembelajaran matematika. Penelitian ini dilakukan di SMPK St Mikael Brai Watugong. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian tindakan kelas. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa penerapan model example non-example di SMPK St Mikael Brai Watugong dapat  meningkatkan hasil belajar peserta didik pada pembelajaran matematika.
Pengembangan Buku Petunjuk Praktikum Fisika Berbasis Model Pembelajaran POE (Predict Observe Explain) pada Materi Usaha, Energi dan Pesawat Sederhana
Authors: Bopo Paulina Finsila , Prasetyo Erwin
Published: August 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menghasilkan buku petunjuk, mengetahui kualitas dan mengetahui respon peserta didik serta keterlaksanaan terhadap buku petunjuk praktikum fisika berbasis POE (Predict, Observe, Explain). Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian Research and Development (RD) yang mengacu pada model prosedural 4- D, yakni define, design, develop, dan disseminate. Penelitian ini dilakukan sampai tahap develop yang dibatasi pada uji terbatas dan keterlaksanaan. Instrumen penelitian berupa lembar validasi, lembar penilaian, lembar respon peserta didik, Penilaian kualitas produk menggunakan skala Likert dengan 4 skala dan penilaian respon peserta didik menggunakan skala Guttman yang dibuat dalam bentuk checklist. Sedangkan keterlaksanaan buku petunjuk praktikum fisika berbasis POE menggunakan analisis deskriptif. Hasil penelitian berupa buku petunjuk praktikum fisika berbasis POE untuk peserta didik kelas VIII A SMP Muhammadiyah Waipare. Kualitas buku petunjuk praktikum fisika berbasis POE yang dikembangkan menurut ahli materi, ahli media, dan guru IPA adalah Baik (B) dengan rerata skor masing-masing sebesar 2,45; 2,53; dan 2,83. Respon peserta didik pada uji terbatas dan uji luas adalah Setuju (S) dengan rerata skor 2,54. Hasil uji keterlaksanaan buku petunjuk praktikum fisika berbasis POE berdasarkan pengamatan observer secara keseluruhan telah terlaksana dengan baik.
Analisis Keberadaan Bakteri Escherichia Coli (E.Coli) pada Air Laut Di Kampung Wuring Kabupaten Sikka
Authors: Nurliani Nurliani , Syafriati Yuli Mira , Sada Mariana
Published: August 2024

Kampung Wuring yang berada di kelurahan Wolomarang Kecamatan Alok Barat Kabupaten Sikka merupakan perkampungan yang pada umumnya mendirikan rumah di atas air yang menyatu dengan daratan. Banyaknya aktivitas di perairan pantai mengakibatkan masuknya sampah organik dan anorganik ke perairan pantai. Bakteri Escherichia coli (E.coli)  berguna sebagai pendegradasi bahan organik namun jika jumlah bakteri tersebut berlebihan maka itu bisa menjadi indikator pencemaran. Escherichia coli (E.coli) merupakan mikroorganisme yang terdapat pada air yang terkontaminasi dan dapat menyebabkan gangguan kesehatan pada manusia. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui jumlah kandungan bakteri Escherichia Coli (E.coli) pada air laut di daerah perairan Kampung Wuring Kabupaten Sikka. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan dari bulan Februari 2024 di Laboratorium Kesehatan Daerah (LABKESDA) Kabupaten Sikka. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah metode kuantitatif dengan menggunakan membran filter dan dibandingkan dengan standar baku mutu Kep-51/MENKLH/2004. Sampel yang diambil berasal dari 2 stasiun yang berbeda yaitu stasiun satu di pemukiman warga dan stasiun dua di Taka Mbo Mina dengan masing- masing empat kali pengulangan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa jumlah kandungan bakteri Escherichia Coli (E.coli) pada air laut di pemukiman warga dengan empat pengulangan yaitu sampel satu 4,5 Cfu /100 ml sampel dua 3,12 Cfu /100 ml sampel tiga 2 Cfu /100 ml dan sampel empat 4,37 Cfu /100 ml. Namun pada sampel air laut di Taka Mbo Mina dengan empat kali pengulangan tidak terdeteksi adanya bakteri Escherichia Coli (E.coli). Nilai bakteri Escherichia Coli (E.coli) yang didapat pada sampel air laut di Kampung Wuring masih dibawah ambang batas baku mutu Kementerian Lingkungan Hidup Nomor 51 tahun 2004 dengan ketentuan nilai 200 Cfu /100 ml.
Editorial
Authors: Viana Diego Carvalho
Published: August 2024

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Exploring new opportunities
Authors: Wilson Emma
Published: August 2024

Emma Wilson discusses how career change trends are impacting dental nurses.
The gateway to poor oral health?
Authors: Coates Karen
Published: August 2024

Karen Coates offers advice on communicating the risks of alcohol to patients.
A focus on wellbeing
Authors: Garlo Nina
Published: August 2024

Nina Garlo details a triathlon champion's tips for improving oral health.
Accounting for the Widening Mortality Gap between American Adults with and without a BA
Authors: Case Anne , Deaton Angus
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: We examine mortality differences between American adults with and without a four-year college degree over the period 1992 to 2021. Mortality patterns, in aggregate and across groups, can provide evidence on how well society is functioning, information that goes beyond aggregate measures of material well-being. From 1992 to 2010, both educational groups saw falling mortality, but with greater improvements for the more educated; from 2010 to 2019, mortality continued to fall for those with a four-year degree while rising for those without; during the COVID-19 pandemic, mortality rose for both groups, but markedly more rapidly for the less educated. In consequence, the mortality gap between the two groups expanded in all three periods, leading to an 8.5-year difference in adult life expectancy by the end of 2021. There have been dramatic changes in patterns of mortality since 1992, but gaps rose consistently in each of thirteen broad classifications of cause of death. We document rising gaps in other measures relevant to well-being—background factors to the rising gap in mortality—including morbidity, social isolation, marriage, family income, and wealth.
Wage-Price Spirals
Authors: Lorenzoni Guido , Werning Iván
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: We interpret recent inflation experience through the lens of a New Keynesian model with price and wage rigidities and nonlabor inputs in inelastic supply. The model provides a natural interpretation of some features of the recent episode: an initial surge of noncore inflation, followed by a lagged response of core inflation and a further lagged, persistent response of wage inflation. The model also provides a natural way of discussing the role and the strength of wage-price spiral dynamics in price-setting models. The model interprets recent developments as symptoms of underlying supply constraints, which can be triggered by both demand and supply shocks. The immediate manifestation of these constraints is in the relative price of scarce, inelastic nonlabor inputs (including energy). The secondary effects arise because they produce a gap between lowered real wage aspirations of firms—that try to make up for higher nonlabor costs—and increased real wage aspirations of workers—caused by increased labor demand. The gap produces a wage-price spiral, which continues as long as the initial relative scarcity of nonlabor inputs persists, even though input prices are falling. In this view, the fact that nominal wage growth is currently exceeding price inflation can be given a benign interpretation, as a sign of real wages going back to trend and not necessarily as a concern of an ongoing spiral.
Lightness modifications of the CIECAM16 and CIELAB based on the Helmholtz-Kohlrausch effect
Authors: Liao Zhihui , Xu Lihao
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a variable-achromatic-color (VAC) lightness matching experiment conducted on a wide color gamut display. Based on the findings of this study, two models were proposed for the prediction of the Helmholtz-Kohlrausch (H-K) effect. The first method modifies High's hue-dependent function to account for the peak in red hues. The second method employs a lattice regression algorithm to construct a look-up table (LUT) based on the collected datasets. The model performance was evaluated by comparison with all other available H-K correction models and datasets. The results demonstrated that the two proposed models have achieved significant improvements in both the present and previous datasets.
Asymmetric vortex generation in a time-switched magneto-optical Lorentz medium
Authors: Zhang Sihao , He Huan , Chen Zhaoxian , Qi Jiwei , Li Huanan , Xu Jingjun
Published: August 2024

By leveraging time interfaces and their combinations, time-switched metamaterials facilitate efficient wave manipulation in a uniform medium, circumventing energy conservation during propagation. Here, by merging time interfaces with magnetized Lorentz material dispersion, we demonstrate that a time-switched magneto-optical medium can enable the generation of vortex beams with topological charges of −2, 2 or 0, each steered by the spin state and incident direction of an initially vortex-free Bessel beam. Especially, by constructing dispersive photonic time crystals using the magneto-optical medium, we show that the efficiency of vortex generation and the asymmetry performance can be greatly improved through momentum bandgap engineering, surpassing the capabilities of a standalone temporal slab. Our approach broadens the functionalities of time-switched metamaterials, offering avenues for manipulating structured waves and paving the way for innovative solutions in wave engineering.
Adaptive Fresnel lens: Basic theory
Authors: Armstrong Ivan , Locher Maik , Courtial Johannes
Published: August 2024

We present a design for an adaptive Fresnel lens. The focal length can be altered by rotating two refractive components relative to each other, each comprising modified cylindrical lenses wound into spirals. The main light-ray-direction change is due to transmission through pairs of parallel, almost touching, cylindrical lenses whose focal lengths have equal magnitude but opposite sign. Shifting the cylindrical lenses relative to each other perpendicular to the common cylinder-axis direction changes the directions of transmitted light rays, and by designing each component to be one long, thin, cylindrical lens whose focal length changes along its length and which is bent into a suitable spiral, rotation of the components relative to each other shifts the cylindrical lenses as required. Adding the thickness profiles of the two parts of a cylindrical Alvarez-Lohmann lens to those of the two cylindrical lenses significantly improves the optical performance. We support our construction with raytracing simulations, and discuss potential applications.
The application of Borg scale in cardiopulmonary resuscitation: An integrative review
Authors: Tobase Lucia , Cardoso Sandra Helena , Rodrigues Renata Tavares Franco , Souza Dhieizom Rodrigo de , Gugelmin-Almeida Debora , Polastri Thatiane Facholi , Peres Heloisa Helena Ciqueto , Timerman Sergio
Published: August 2024

The study of human performance and perception of exertion constitutes a fundamental aspect for monitoring health implications and enhancing training outcomes such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It involves gaining insights into the varied responses and tolerance levels exhibited by individuals engaging in physical activities. To measure perception of exertion, many tools are available, including the Borg scale. In order to evaluate how the Borg scale is being used during CPR attempts, this integrative review was carried out between October/2020 and December/2023, with searches from PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, PsycINFO and VHL. Full publications relevant to the PICO strategy were included and letters, editorials, abstracts, and unpublished studies were excluded. In total, 34 articles were selected and categorised into three themes: a) CPR performed in different contexts; b) CPR performed in different cycles, positions, and techniques; c) CPR performed with additional technological resources. Because CPR performance is considered a strenuous physical activity, the Borg scale was used in each study to evaluate perception of exertion. The results identified that the Borg scale has been used during CPR in different contexts. It is a quick, low-cost, and easy-to-apply tool that provides important indicators that may affect CPR quality, such as perception of exertion, likely improving performance and potentially increasing the chances of survival.
The doodle dilemma: How the physical health of ‘Designer-crossbreed’ Cockapoo, Labradoodle and Cavapoo dogs’ compares to their purebred progenitor breeds
Authors: Bryson Gina T. , O’Neill Dan G. , Brand Claire L. , Belshaw Zoe , Packer Rowena M. A.
Published: August 2024

Booming UK ownership of designer-crossbreed dogs resulting from intentional crossing of distinct purebred breeds is often motivated by perceived enhanced health, despite limited evidence supporting a strong ’hybrid vigour’ effect in dogs. Improved evidence on the relative health of designer-crossbreed dogs could support prospective owners to make better acquisition decisions when choosing their new dog. This study used a cross-sectional survey of UK owners of three common designer-crossbreeds (Cavapoo, Cockapoo, and Labradoodle) and their progenitor breeds (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, and Poodle) to collect owner-reported health disorder information. The authors hypothesised that designer-crossbred breeds have lower odds of common disorders compared to their progenitor breeds. Multivariable analysis accounted for confounding between breeds: dog age, sex, neuter status, and owner age and gender. The odds for the 57 most common disorders were compared across the three designer-crossbreeds with each of their two progenitor breeds (342 comparisons). Valid responses were received for 9,402 dogs. The odds did not differ statistically significantly between the designer-crossbreeds and their relevant progenitor breeds in 86.6% (n = 296) of health comparisons. Designer-crossbreeds had higher odds for 7.0% (n = 24) of disorders studied, and lower odds for 6.4% (n = 22). These findings suggest limited differences in overall health status between the three designer-crossbreeds and their purebred progenitors, challenging widespread beliefs in positive hybrid vigour effects for health in this emerging designer-crossbreed demographic. Equally, the current study did not suggest that designer-crossbreeds have poorer health as has also been purported. Therefore, owners could more appropriately base acquisition decisions between designer-crossbreeds and their purebred progenitors on other factors important to canine welfare such as breeding conditions, temperament, conformation and health of parents.
No negative effects of intra-abdominal bio-logger implantation under general anaesthesia on spatial cognition learning in a hibernator the edible dormouse
Authors: Lammert Tabea Loreen , Müller Jan , Ferreira Susana Carolina , Teubenbacher Ursula , Cornils Jessica Svea , Stalder Gabrielle , Painer-Gigler Johanna , Ruf Thomas , Bieber Claudia , Pohlin Friederike
Published: August 2024

The effect of hibernation on cognitive capacities of individuals is not fully understood, as studies provide conflicting results. Most studies focus on behavioural observations without taking the physiological state of individuals to account. To mechanistically understand the effect of hibernation on the brain, physiological parameters need to be included. The implantation of bio-loggers can provide insights on i.e. body temperature without further manipulation of the animals. Surgeries and anaesthesia, however, can harm animals’ health and cause cognitive dysfunction, potentially biasing data collected through bio-loggers. We investigated the effects of bio-logger implantation surgery on cognitive performance and learning, controlling for animal and study design characteristics. First, juvenile dormice successfully learned to solve a spatial cognition task using a vertical maze. Distance, transitions, velocity, and duration were measured as indicators for performance. After training, bio-loggers were implanted intra-abdominally under general anaesthesia. Animals were re-tested in the maze two weeks after. We found no effect of bio-logger implantation and surgery on performance. This study is the first to show spatial cognition learning in edible dormice and provides a full description of the peri-anaesthetic management and a protocol for bio-logger implantation surgery in dormice. Importantly, measures were taken to mitigate common anaesthetic complications that could lead to post-operative cognitive dysfunction and influence animal behaviour. By pairing physiological measurements through bio-logger implantation with behaviour and cognition measurements, future research will significantly advance the understanding on mechanisms of learning and behaviour.
Self-Adaptive Teacher-Student framework for colon polyp segmentation from unannotated private data with public annotated datasets
Authors: Jia Yiwen , Feng Guangming , Yang Tang , Chen Siyuan , Dai Fu
Published: August 2024

Colon polyps have become a focal point of research due to their heightened potential to develop into appendiceal cancer, which has the highest mortality rate globally. Although numerous colon polyp segmentation methods have been developed using public polyp datasets, they tend to underperform on private datasets due to inconsistencies in data distribution and the difficulty of fine-tuning without annotations. In this paper, we propose a Self-Adaptive Teacher-Student (SATS) framework to segment colon polyps from unannotated private data by utilizing multiple publicly annotated datasets. The SATS trains multiple teacher networks on public datasets and then generates pseudo-labels on private data to assist in training a student network. To enhance the reliability of the pseudo-labels from the teacher networks, the SATS includes a newly proposed Uncertainty and Distance Fusion (UDFusion) strategy. UDFusion dynamically adjusts the pseudo-label weights based on a novel reconstruction similarity measure, innovatively bridging the gap between private and public data distributions. To ensure accurate identification and segmentation of colon polyps, the SATS also incorporates a Granular Attention Network (GANet) architecture for both teacher and student networks. GANet first identifies polyps roughly from a global perspective by encoding long-range anatomical dependencies and then refines this identification to remove false-positive areas through multi-scale background-foreground attention. The SATS framework was validated using three public datasets and one private dataset, achieving 76.30% on IoU, 86.00% on Recall, and 7.01 pixels on HD. These results outperform the existing five methods, indicating the effectiveness of this approach for colon polyp segmentation.
Population-based screening strategies for biliary atresia in the newborn: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gopal Srirupa Hari , Zebda Rema , Mohan Arvind , Borovsky Kristin , Takwoingi Yemisi , Scandrett Katie , Pammi Mohan
Published: August 2024

Background

Newborn screening for biliary atresia (BA) may facilitate earlier diagnosis and intervention for improved clinical outcomes.

Methods

We systematically reviewed the accuracy of population-based screening strategies for BA in the newborn using PRISMA-DTA guidelines. We included cohort or cross-sectional studies. The screening (index) tests included stool color card (SCC) and direct/conjugated bilirubin (DB/CB) and the reference standard was intraoperative cholangiogram. Meta-analysis was performed using random-effects logistic regression models.

Results

We included 15 studies (1,816,722 participants) that assessed 5 different population-based screening strategies. QUADAS-2 assessment revealed high risk of bias for patient selection in one study and uncertain risks for reference standard in multiple studies. High certainty evidence suggests that DB/CB assessed after birth had a summary sensitivity of 100% (95% CI 100,100) and specificity of 98.8% (98.8,98.9) (5 studies, 662141 participants). Moderate certainty evidence suggests that SCC screening at a month of age had summary sensitivity of 79.6% (95% CI 70.6, 86.4) and specificity of 99.9% (95% CI 99.9, 99.9) (7 studies, 996262 participants).

Conclusions

DB/CB in the first few days of life has the best diagnostic accuracy for population screening for biliary atresia in the newborn. Future research should focus on cost-effectiveness and combinations of screening strategies.