bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Therapies for Metastatic Sarcoma: Why, When, and How?
Authors: Hindi Nadia , Laack Nadia , Hong Kelvin , Hohenberger Peter
Published: June 2023

Management of patients with advanced sarcoma has been evolving in recent decades, from a one-fit-all perspective to a more refined, personalized, and multidisciplinary approach. In parallel, the evolution of local therapies (radiotherapy, surgical and interventional radiology techniques) has contributed to the improvement of survival of patients with advanced sarcoma. In this article, we review the evidence regarding local treatments in advanced sarcoma, as well as its integration with systemic therapies, to provide the reader a wider and deeper perspective on the management of patients with metastatic sarcoma.
Helicity-dependent optical modulation of polaron spin current in organic semiconductors
Authors: Zan Jun , Cui Huiqin , Huang Yujuan , Zhang Longlong
Published: June 2023

The optical response of the transmitting polaron in π-conjugated organic semiconductor to the circularly polarized pulse is theoretically studied. Depending on the helicity of the circularly polarized light, polaron spin flip is achieved within femtoseconds without applying magnetic field, leading to the spin polarization of the polaron current. The magnitude of spin polarization can be modulated by tuning the frequency and amplitude of the circularly polarized light. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the conversions between spin-depolarization and spin-polarization of the polaron current can be repeatedly triggered by applying a series of circularly polarized pulses until the polaron dissociates. Our work suggests a new prospect for all-optically controlling spin current in the organic spintronic devices.
Υπολογιστικά υποστηριζόμενη εκπαιδευτική αξιολόγηση σε περιβάλλοντα ηλεκτρονικής μάθησης
Authors: Τσιγάρος Θεολόγος
Published: June 2023

Οι ψηφιακές τεχνολογίες μετασχηματίζουν το χώρο της εκπαίδευσης. Υποστηρίζουν την ανάπτυξη και τη λειτουργία νέων ψηφιακών περιβαλλόντων μάθησης, εντός των οποίων οι διαδικασίες της εκπαιδευτικής αξιολόγησης παρέχονται μέσω υπολογιστικών συστημάτων. Η Υπολογιστικά Υποστηριζόμενη Αξιολόγηση σχετίζεται με ένα ευρύ φάσμα συστημάτων και διαδικασιών. Περιλαμβάνει συστήματα και εφαρμογές που αυτοματοποιούν παραδοσιακές μεθόδους αξιολόγησης, αλλά και καινοτόμους μεθόδους, μέσω των οποίων η αξιολόγηση αποκτά νέες μορφές και ενσωματώνεται στα νέα ψηφιακά περιβάλλοντα μάθησης. Η διατριβή παρουσιάζει αναλυτικά τις βασικές μορφές που μπορεί να λάβει η Υπολογιστικά Υποστηριζόμενη Αξιολόγηση, αλλά επικεντρώνεται στις καινοτόμες μορφές της. Σκοπός της διατριβής είναι να συνεισφέρει στο πεδίο της μελέτης των προβλεπτικών μοντέλων Μηχανικής Μάθησης σε ψηφιακά περιβάλλοντα μάθησης και των δυνατοτήτων αξιοποίησής τους στην εκπαιδευτική αξιολόγηση. Ειδικότερα, η διατριβή διερευνά τις δυνατότητες των μοντέλων να αξιοποιήσουν δεδομένα χρήσης των Συστημάτων Διαχείρισης Μάθησης (ΣΔΜ) και να προβλέψουν τις επιδόσεις των φοιτητών, όχι μόνο με ακρίβεια, αλλά και εγκαίρως, ώστε να μπορούν να χρησιμοποιηθούν ως εργαλεία διαμορφωτικής αξιολόγησης, τα οποία αφενός εντοπίζουν ζητήματα που προοιωνίζονται αποτυχημένη φοίτηση και αφετέρου καθοδηγούν στοχευμένες διδακτικές παρεμβάσεις. Συλλέχθηκαν δεδομένα πρόσβασης στο ΣΔΜ Moodle για 4 μαθήματα προπτυχιακού και μεταπτυχιακού επιπέδου. Τα μοντέλα πρόβλεψης αξιολογήθηκαν, ως προς την ακρίβεια και ως προς τη χρονική στιγμή της πρόβλεψης. Διερευνήθηκε επίσης, ο διαφορετικός βαθμός επίδρασης συγκεκριμένων χαρακτηριστικών στην απόδοση των μοντέλων και οι συσχετίσεις των χαρακτηριστικών αυτών με διαστάσεις που αφορούν την ενεργή συμμετοχή των φοιτητών στην εκπαιδευτική διαδικασία. Τα κύρια αποτέλεσματα της έρευνας έδειξαν ότι, με την αξιοποίηση μοντέλων Μηχανικής Μάθησης στα μαθήματα που μελετήθηκαν, προβλέφθηκε, με αρκετά καλή ακρίβεια και αξιοπιστία, η τελική επίδοση των σπουδαστών. Επιπλέον, εφικτή ήταν η έγκαιρη πρόβλεψη, αρκετά πριν την ολοκλήρωση των μαθημάτων. Προέκυψε, ότι κάποια από τα χαρακτηριστικά στα σύνολα δεδομένων των μοντέλων, επηρεάζουν περισσότερο από τα υπόλοιπα την ικανότητα πρόβλεψης. Τα επιδραστικά χαρακτηριστικά είναι κοινά μεταξύ συναφών μαθημάτων και ο υψηλός βαθμός επίδρασης τους μπορεί να αποδοθεί στη σχέση που έχουν με δείκτες ενεργής συμμετοχής των φοιτητών στα μαθήματα. Προέκυψε επίσης, ότι οι διαφορές στη δομή και στην οργάνωση των μαθημάτων, ως αποτέλεσμα διαφορετικών σχεδιαστικών επιλογών, επηρεάζουν τη βαρύτητα των χαρακτηριστικών στα σύνολα δεδομένων και τελικά επηρεάζουν και την απόδοση των μοντέλων.
Η συνταγματική κατοχύρωση του ελεύθερου ανταγωνισμού υπό το φως του ενωσιακού δικαίου
Authors: Αναγνωστοπούλου Δήμητρα
Published: June 2023

H παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή τοποθετείται στο μεταίχμιο του συνταγματικού δικαίου, του δικαίου του ελεύθερου ανταγωνισμού και του ενωσιακού δικαίου. Ειδικότερα, στο πλαίσιο της παρούσης διδακτορικής διατριβής θα επιχειρηθεί να εξετασθεί, παραφράζοντας τη σκέψη της διάσημης απόφασης του Supreme Court Parker vs. Brown, όχι μόνο «εάν υπάρχει κάτι στο δίκαιο του ελεύθερου ανταγωνισμού και στην ιστορία του που υποδεικνύει ότι στο πεδίο εφαρμογής του εμπίπτει και η κρατική δράση», αλλά κυρίως εάν θεμελιώνεται σε συνταγματικό επίπεδο στην ελληνική έννομη τάξη μία γενική αρχή περί προστασίας του ελεύθερου ανταγωνισμού που δεσμεύει την κρατική δράση σε όλες τις εκφάνσεις της, ήτοι τόσο στη συμβατική όσο και στη μονομερή έκφανσή της.
Temperature effect of muons registered under the ground in Yakutsk by telescopes on GAS-discharge counters
Authors: Yanchukovsky Valery
Published: June 2023

The Yakutsk spectrograph of cosmic rays includes a complex of muon telescopes based on gas-discharge and scintillation counters located on the surface and under the ground at depths of 7, 20, and 40 m.w.e. Using continuous observations made by muon telescopes on gas-discharge counters and data on the altitude profile of the atmospheric temperature over Yakutsk for the period from January 2016 to December 2018, we have calculated density distributions of temperature coefficients for muons detected on the surface and at various depths under the ground. To do this, we employed multivariate regression methods and principal component methods. The results obtained are compared with the results of earlier theoretical calculations. The results make it possible to correctly take into account the temperature effect in the data from the complex of muon telescopes on gas-discharge counters.
Effects of September 5–12, 2017 solar flares on regional disturbance of Earth’s ionosphere as recorded by GNSS stations located in the Volga Federal District of the Russian Federation
Authors: Maksimov Denis , Kogogin Denis , Nasyrov Igor , Zagretdinov Renat
Published: June 2023

The paper presents the results of estimation of the effects of September 5–12, 2017 solar flares on the regional disturbance of Earth's ionosphere according to data from a distributed network of GNSS stations located mostly in the Volga Federal District of the Russian Federation. The GNSS data processing software package we have developed is used to analyze recorded signal power and daily two-frequency phase measurements, as well as to calculate the total electron content and map the data. The results of the study show that during powerful solar flares X2.2 and X9.3 on September 6 the median value of the total electron content, calculated for the Volga Federal District, increased up to 0.25 TECU and 0.6 TECU respectively. At that time, the region of interest (40°–55° E) was sunlit. The prolonged magnetic storms on September 8 also generated noticeable ionospheric disturbances up to 0.2 TECU. At the same time, neither the solar flares nor the magnetic storms had a significant effect on the power characteristics of the recorded signals from navigation satellites in the region under study. The median carrier-to-noise ratio calculated for the region considered over the entire observation period did not differ from the values recorded under undisturbed ionospheric conditions and varied between 47–53 dBHz and 38–49 dBHz for frequencies L1 and L2 respectively.
Spatial Patterns of Recent Ukrainian Refugees in Germany: Administrative Dispersal and Existing Ethnic Networks
Authors: Sauer Lenore , Ette Andreas , Steinhauer Hans Walter , Siegert Manuel , Tanis Kerstin
Published: June 2023

Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, many people have fled the war and left their home country. By the end of January 2023, more than one million Ukrainian refugees had been registered in Germany alone. In contrast to refugees from other countries of origin in Germany, Ukrainian citizens can choose their place of residence if they have either found private accommodation with family members or friends or do not claim state support. However, little information exists on where within Germany Ukrainian refugees have moved and why certain regions are potentially more attractive than others. There exists a substantial literature on the location choices of migrants in general, showing that the existing level of immigrant concentration is an important determinant, while economic factors have a smaller effect – if not in the initial location choice after immigration, then at least in later location decisions. Whereas these studies mainly focus on labour migrants, research on refugees’ location choices is still scarce, because refugees are usually assigned to specific places of residence by the authorities in many European countries. In the context of forced migration, spatial patterns may therefore largely be related to administrative decisions. In this paper, we aim to answer the question of the settlement patterns of recently arrived refugees from Ukraine in Germany by using current data from the Central Register of Foreigners. These patterns are modelled on the NUTS-3 level and consider the proportion of previous Ukrainian migrants living within those regions as well as additional economic, demographic, and geographical factors. Spatial regression models show that, on the one hand, Ukrainian refugees indeed settle where the number of Ukrainians is already high. The empirical analyses also indicate a correlation between the spatial patterns of refugees in general and Ukrainian refugees, suggesting that dispersal policies may play a role in explaining settlement patterns. Furthermore, affordable housing and lower rents are important explanatory variables.
El uso de la Inteligencia Artificial en el análisis de impacto normativo.
Authors: Matallana Villegas Silvia
Published: June 2023

El Análisis de Impacto Normativo se implementa en la actualidad en varios países como una herramienta de vanguardia para la mejora de la calidad de la ley. Con el objetivo de explorar el potencial de la Inteligencia Artificial en el ámbito normativo, se analizan las oportunidades de involucrar el virtuoso binomio metodología-tecnología para corregir problemas que afectan a la legislación tales como hiperlegislación, la baja calidad de las normas, la hipostenia y la hipertrofia de los sistemas normativos. Se discuten las limitantes y virtudes de esta metodología de evaluación, para detectar áreas de oportunidad de inclusión de la Inteligencia Artificial, con la finalidad de apoyar el contenido y la forma de la intervención legislativa proyectada, anticipando sus posibles impactos. Esto favorecerá la aprobación de normas con menos probabilidades de fallar.
La gestión de la ciencia, la tecnología y la innovación en los organismos públicos de investigación (OPIs) de España.
Authors: Hernández Blanco Iván
Published: June 2023

En los últimos años el avance de la inversión en I+D+i ha crecido exponencialmente. Tras la crisis financiera de 2007-2008 y la crisis sanitaria originada por el virus SARS-CoV-2, la inversión en I+D+i en España ha alcanzado los 17.249 millones de euros en 2021, el 1,43% del PIB. Con motivo de este aumento es necesaria una forma eficaz de poder gestionar los recursos en materia de ciencia y tecnología. La financiación concedida por parte de la Unión Europea con los fondos Next Generation EU y concretamente del Mecanismo para la Recuperación y la Resiliencia (MRR) han potenciado aún más esta dotación económica para investigación en los Organismos Públicos de Investigación. Tras la reciente reforma de la Ley de la Ciencia en septiembre de 2022, se pone en marcha un camino para que en 2030 la financiación de los agentes públicos del Sistema Español de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación logre el 1,25 % del PIB, de conformidad con la Recomendación (UE) 2021/2122 del Consejo de 26 de noviembre de 2021 sobre un Pacto de Investigación e Innovación en Europa, de 26 de noviembre de 2021.
Singapur un camino interrumpido hacia la regulación de las técnicas de reemplazo mitocondrial.
Authors: Reguera Cabezas Marta
Published: June 2023

Las técnicas de reemplazo mitocondrial pueden reducir significativamente el riesgo de transmisión de enfermedades mitocondriales a la descendencia. Singapur estaba analizando la posibilidad de realizar cambios legislativos históricos que permitirían a las parejas afectadas por enfermedades mitocondriales hereditarias maternas la oportunidad de tener hijos genéticamente no afectados. Sin embargo, tras el informe del BAC, parece que la República de Singapur, no se convertirá en el tercer país a nivel internacional en autorizar el uso de las técnicas de reemplazo mitocondrial.
Deontología profesional, la seguridad del paciente y principios esenciales. Conceptos clave para la regulación de la telemedicina, la Inteligencia Artificial y la robótica en el ámbito sanitario.
Authors: Pérez Sarabia Manuel
Published: June 2023

En el debate abierto sobre regulación de la telemedicina, la IA y la robótica en el ámbito sanitario, y como estrategia de gobernanza europea prevista en el Libro Blanco sobre inteligencia artificial, así como para garantizar el establecimiento de un marco ético y jurídico apropiado, basado en los valores de la Unión Europea y en consonancia con la carta de Derechos Fundamentales, observamos que la situación de disrupción tecnológica no debe ir unida a una disrupción reguladora, puesto que la normativa vigente da respuesta a muchos aspectos esenciales. Por esta razón, propongo la deontología profesional, la seguridad del paciente y los principios de trasparencia, veracidad y competencia profesional, como conceptos y principios clave para superar con éxito los retos tecnológicos sanitarios a los que nos enfrentamos, y para que las autoridades públicas puedan garantizar que el desarrollo y uso de tecnologías está en consonancia con los derechos humanos.
Education on blood donation and transfusion from the perspective of a state university extension project
Authors: Roriz Karoline P. , Ferreira Thayani Cristina N. C. , Machado Pablo Antony C. , Fonseca Kallic B. , Ferreira Lucas S. , De Oliveira Andreza B. R. , De Oliveira Regina Márcia R. , Baião Samantha V. , Da Silva Cirley S. , Bandeira Flavia M. G. de C.
Published: June 2023

Introduction: The extension project “Permanent education on transfusion therapy: promoting better care from donor to recipient” is aimsto impactthe learning processon safe blood donation and transfusion througheducation, social and cultural influences on students and health professionals, as well ason the community.Objective: To promote educational activities and toolsrelated tosafe blood donation and transfusion.Methodology: Dissemination of information about blood donation and transfusion topics through social media, educational activities,including other extension projects,andconversation circles were planned. Indicators, such as the number of posts on social media, number of people reached,and events heldfrom March 2021 to August 2022, were considered for quantitative analysis.Results: Thirty-six posts on the project’s Instagramfeed reached 270 people. Two events were registered at the University Extension Department and were executed. A conversation circle about blood donation in the context of the LGBTQIA+ community attracted 19 participants and a multidisciplinary team. One action for the “World Blood Donor Day”, contributed to a 54% increase in the number of candidates for donation tothe blood bank at Pedro Ernesto University Hospital, compared to the previous year. There was a discussion on refusal to receive transfusion based on the book “The Children Act”, by Ian McEwan,involving another extension project called “CangaLiterária”.Conclusion: The extension projects play an important roleineducation andallowed the inclusion of content that isnot part ofthe medical syllabus, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge.
Treatment of penile curvature with aldehyde free bovine pericardium graft: an original and prospective evaluation of a cohort of patients with peyronie’s disease
Authors: Ruellas Eloísio Alexsandro Da S. , Feitosa Igor José C. , Osta Miguel de O. , Westin Luiz Augusto , Da Silva Tamiris M. de O. Ruellas , Damião Ronaldo
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Peyronie´s disease (PD) is a common condition that can cause penile curvature and /or deformities and therefore affecting the male sexual function. The most effective treatment for clinically significative and stable penile curvature due to PD is the reconstructive surgery that involves techniques that do not shorten the penile length. Among the techniques that correct the curvature restoring the penile length, the incision and/or excision of the plaque, followed by the reconstruction of the defect with a graft remains as the gold standard. Although several materials have been used as a graft in the treatment of penile curvature due to PD, none have shown results good enough to be considered as the first choice. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the results of the surgical treatment of patients with penile curvature due to PD using a new biograft. Methodology: We performed the surgical management with graft technique in twelve men suffering from penile curvature due to PD. Penile curvature was measured before and one year after the reconstructive procedure. The graft of choice was the bovine pericardium graft segment treated with L-Hydro aldehyde-free technology. Erectile function was evaluated by the IIEF questionnaire and penis length was measured by a rigid rule during the pharmacological induced erection test. Results: The overall success rate of correction of the penile curvature was 90.9% and the patient’s satisfaction rate was 91.7%. No serious adverse events were found and erectile function impaired in 18.2%.There was an increase in penile length in 91.7% and this ranged from 0.7 to 3.0 cm. Conclusion: Correction of penile curvature due to Peyronie's disease using the technique of incision and/or excision of the plaque with the aldehyde-free bovine pericardium graft has high success rates in terms of both penile shaft rectification and patient satisfaction. L-hydro bovine pericardium graft is easy to handle surgically, allows a tight anastomosis and does not present serious postoperative complications. Furthermore, it can be used simultaneously with penile implants and appears to have a role in restoring penile length.
UMA PRIMEIRA EXPERIÊNCIA CONSTITUCIONAL: OS DEPUTADOS BRASILEIROS NAS CORTES CONSTITUINTES DE LISBOA, 1821-1822 / A FIRST CONSTITUTIONAL EXPERIENCE: BRAZILIAN DEPUTIES IN THE “CORTES” OF LISBON, 1821-1822
Authors: Wehling Arno
Published: June 2023

Resumo: Análise da atuação dos deputados brasileiros nas Cortes constituintes de Lisboa. Destaca-se o caráter fragmentário da representação das diferentes províncias brasileiras, procurando encontrar suas razões no mosaico político, ideológico e social brasileiro. Estuda-se os principais embates com os deputados portugueses e as diversas posições surgidas, revelando a dificuldade para chegar a um texto constitucional que conciliasse os interesses brasileiros e portugueses.Palavras-chave: Constitucionalismo brasileiro. Constitucionalismo português. Liberalismo. Revolução.Abstract: Analysis of the performance of Brazilian deputies in the constituent Cortes of Lisbon. The fragmentary character of the representation of the different Brazilian provinces is highlighted, seeking to find their reasons in the political, ideological and social mosaic. The main clashes with the Portuguese deputies and the different positions that emerged are studied, revealing the difficulty in reaching a constitutional text that reconciled Brazilian and Portuguese interests and claims.Keywords: Brazilian constitutionalism. Portuguese constitutionalism. Liberalism. Revolution.
Space-Age Tech Could Aid Shipping
Authors: Knight Helen
Published: June 2023

Investigation into using satellite-based technology for remote control
Call to Address Brexit Effect on Nuclear Power
Authors: Nathan Stuart
Published: June 2023

IMechE concerns over the pathway of future policies
Technology Key to Better Road Network
Authors: Ford Jason
Published: June 2023

Highways England sets out its strategy
Return of the Lost Engineers
Authors: Knight Helen
Published: June 2023

Industry bodies are working together to bring more women into engineering and entice lost talent back into the fold
£80m Award to Aid Battery Innovation
Authors: Ford Jason
Published: June 2023

Developing products for vehicles and transportation
Storelectric Going Dutch
Authors: Knight Helen
Published: June 2023

UK start-up steps up challenge
New Rolls-Royce Engines Launched for Business Jets
Authors: Nathan Stuart
Published: June 2023

‘Pioneering’ Pearl series will propel Bombardier's Global aircraft
Locking CO2 in Ground Could Help Extract Shale Gas
Authors: Knight Helen
Published: June 2023

Project explores use of carbon dioxide to enhance recovery of methane
Electric Cars on Track for Improved Inductive Charging
Authors: Knight Helen
Published: June 2023

Wireless spots placed in roads could make ‘filling up’ more convenient
Polishing the Jewel in the Crown
Authors: Nathan Stuart
Published: June 2023

Rolls-Royce's chief technology officer talks about new horizons and latest developments in aerospace propulsion.
Launch the Nautilus
Authors: Copco Atlas
Published: June 2023

A low-noise air compressor, and the toolmaker supporting a world land speed record attempt
Brunei Unveils £15m Advanced Metals Centre
Authors: Ford Jason
Published: June 2023

AMPC offers access to new processing and casting techniques
3D Printing Takes a Quantum Leap
Authors: Nathan Stuart
Published: June 2023

Researchers demonstrate how process can work at molecular scale
FATORES ASSOCIADOS À TUBERCULOSE NAS POPULAÇÕES VULNERÁVEIS EM FEIRA DE SANTANA – BA
Authors: Denise Rios de Oliveira  , Maria Yana Guimaraes Silva Freitas
Published: June 2023

A tuberculose (TB) é uma infecção bacteriana de alta transmissibilidade, caracterizada como problema de saúde pública devido a altas taxas de incidência e prevalência, sendo potencializada pelos determinantes sociais ( Maciel, 2016; San Pedro et al., 2017). Entre as populações expostas, podem-se destacar as populações vulneráveis como as pessoas em situação de rua, pessoas privadas de liberdade, imigrantes, profissionais de saúde, que faraõ parte da pesquisa.
Foraging specificity of Tetralonia (Thygatina) macroceps (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Anthophorinae) on Argyreia cuneata (Convolvulaceae)
Authors: Udayakumar Amala , Anjanappa Raghavendra , Subaharan Kesavan , Shivalingaswamy Timalapur M.
Published: June 2023

Floral specificity is a behavior that evolved due to mutualistic interactions between the plant-pollinator community. Flowers advertise themselves using visual or chemical cues to attract pollinators and gain reproductive success through pollination. Pollinators forage for rewards such as nectar or pollen produced by the flowers. We found that an anthophorid bee, Tetralonia macroceps, foraged specifically on Argyreia cuneata flowers. No visitation was observed on the flowers of A. nervosa though both belong to Convolvulaceae. T. macroceps was the most abundant floral visitor (5.21 bees/flower/5 min) on A. cuneata and did not visit A. nervosa. Mass flowering and narrow tubular flower structure with easy access to pollen in A. cuneata were the traits that accounted for the foraging specificity of T. macroceps. The present study investigates the preference of T. macroceps for the flowers and floral extracts of A. cuneata and A. nervosa. The bee visited 10.16 flowers/5 min of A. cuneata. T. macroceps were highly attracted to the flowers of A. cuneata. No bees were attracted to A. nervosa. The floral abundance of A. cuneata was relatively higher compared to A. nervosa. Pollen analysis of foraging bees of T. macroceps revealed the selective preference towards the pollen of A. cuneata. The highest number of bees preferred the extract of A. cuneata (7.75) compared to A. nervosa (0.50) in the Y-olfactory maze. Floral extract of A. cuneata caused the highest neuronal electroantennogram (EAG) response (1.48 mV) than A. nervosa (0.36 mV). Our preliminary studies indicated the presence of specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) nonacosane (13.26%), hexatriacontane (12.06%), and beta farnesene (6.19%) observed in A. cuneata were absent in congener A. nervosa.
Capixaba ant species inventory is far from complete: A local scale assessment of the ants (Formicidae) reveals the importance of diversity studies and entomological collections
Authors: Vicente Ricardo Eduardo , Souza Jorge Luiz Pereira , Prado Lívia Pires do
Published: June 2023

The Atlantic Forest is the third largest biome in Brazil, the most sampled, and has the second highest diversity of ant species described. However, these data are spatially very heterogeneous, with the central region of the Atlantic Forest being better sampled. There is a visible gap from the south of Bahia to the north of Rio de Janeiro, comprising the entire state of Espírito Santo. Knowing this biodiversity gap, in this work, we list the ant fauna (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) deposited in the Coleção Entomológica of the Reserva Natural Vale (CERNV), located in the municipality of Linhares, Espírito Santo. The CERNV has 143 ants collected from August 1984, belonging to 63 species, 29 genera, and eight subfamilies. Of the 143 records, 94 are ant workers (66%), 27 queens (19%), and 22 males (15%). Seventy three percent of the ant workers are identified, 52% of queens and 36% of males. The species with the most individuals deposited are Camponotus sp. (15 records), Eciton burchellii (8), Atta sexdens (7), Neoponera villosa (7), and Solenopsis sp. (6). Among the identified ants, 12 species were recorded for the first time in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. The collection still holds workers (and probably unidentified males) of a species considered endangered, Dinoponera lucida. We can observe the importance of biological collections for the knowledge of biodiversity, local and regional since species are recorded for the first time in a state whose biome is widely studied, helping to fill in Linnean and Wallacean shortfalls.
3D incoherent imaging using an ensemble of sparse self-rotating beams
Authors: Bleahu Andrei-ioan , Gopinath Shivasubramanian , Kahro Tauno , Angamuthu Praveen Periyasamy , John Francis Rajeswary Aravind Simon , Prabhakar Shashi , Kumar Ravi , Salla Gangi Reddy , Singh Ravindra P. , Kukli Kaupo , Tamm Aile , Rosen Joseph , Anand Vijayakumar
Published: June 2023

Interferenceless coded aperture correlation holography (I-COACH) is one of the simplest incoherent holography techniques. In I-COACH, the light from an object is modulated by a coded mask, and the resulting intensity distribution is recorded. The 3D image of the object is reconstructed by processing the object intensity distribution with the pre-recorded 3D point spread intensity distributions. The first version of I-COACH was implemented using a scattering phase mask, which makes its implementation challenging in light-sensitive experiments. The I-COACH technique gradually evolved with the advancement in the engineering of coded phase masks that retain randomness but improve the concentration of light in smaller areas in the image sensor. In this direction, I-COACH was demonstrated using weakly scattered intensity patterns, dot patterns and recently using accelerating Airy patterns, and the case with accelerating Airy patterns exhibited the highest SNR. In this study, we propose and demonstrate I-COACH with an ensemble of self-rotating beams. Unlike accelerating Airy beams, self-rotating beams exhibit a better energy concentration. In the case of self-rotating beams, the uniqueness of the intensity distributions with depth is attributed to the rotation of the intensity pattern as opposed to the shifts of the Airy patterns, making the intensity distribution stable along depths. A significant improvement in SNR was observed in optical experiments.
Inverse design of an ultra-compact dual-band wavelength demultiplexing power splitter with detailed analysis of hyperparameters
Authors: Sun Aolong , Deng Xuyu , Xing Sizhe , Li Zhongya , Jia Junlian , Li Guoqiang , Yan An , Luo Penghao , Li Yixin , Luo Zhiteng , Shi Jianyang , Li Ziwei , Shen Chao , Hong Bingzhou , Chu Wei , Xiao Xi , Chi Nan , Zhang Junwen
Published: June 2023

Inverse design has been widely studied as an efficient method to reduce footprint and improve performance for integrated silicon photonic (SiP) devices. In this study, we have used inverse design to develop a series of ultra-compact dual-band wavelength demultiplexing power splitters (WDPSs) that can simultaneously perform both wavelength demultiplexing and 1:1 optical power splitting. These WDPSs could facilitate the potential coexistence of dual-band passive optical networks (PONs). The design is performed on a standard silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform using, what we believe to be, a novel two-step direct binary search (TS-DBS) method and the impact of different hyperparameters related to the physical structure and the optimization algorithm is analyzed in detail. Our inverse-designed WDPS with a minimum feature size of 130 nm achieves a 12.77-times reduction in footprint and a slight increase in performance compared with the forward-designed WDPS. We utilize the optimal combination of hyperparameters to design another WDPS with a minimum feature size reduced to 65 nm, which achieves ultra-low insertion losses of 0.36 dB and 0.37 dB and crosstalk values of -19.91 dB and -17.02 dB at wavelength channels of 1310 nm and 1550 nm, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, the hyperparameters of optimization-based inverse design are systematically discussed for the first time. Our work demonstrates that appropriate setting of hyperparameters greatly improves device performance, throwing light on the manipulation of hyperparameters for future inverse design.
Accelerated fixed-point iterative reconstruction for fiber borescope imaging
Authors: Zhu Zheyuan , Saiham Dewan , Klein Andrew , Pang Shuo
Published: June 2023

Computational imaging systems with embedded processing have potential advantages in power consumption, computing speed, and cost. However, common processors for embedding systems have limited computing capacity with low level of parallelism. The widely used iterative algorithms for image reconstruction rely on floating-point processors to ensure calculation precision, which require more computing resources than fixed-point processors. Here we present a regularized Landweber fixed-point iterative solver for image reconstruction, implemented on a field programmable gated array (FPGA). Compared with floating-point embedded uniprocessors, iterative solvers implemented on the fixed-point FPGA gain 1 to 2 orders of magnitude acceleration, while achieving the same reconstruction accuracy in comparable number of effective iterations. Specifically, we have demonstrated the proposed fixed-point iterative solver in fiber borescope image reconstruction, successfully correcting the artifacts introduced by the lenses and fiber bundle.
Individualized network analysis reveals a link between the gut microbiome, diet intervention and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Liu Yimeng , Amit Guy , Zhao Xiaolei , Wu Na , Li Daqing , Bashan Amir
Published: June 2023

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), a serious complication during pregnancy which is defined by abnormal glucose regulation, is commonly treated by diabetic diet and lifestyle changes. While recent findings place the microbiome as a natural mediator between diet interventions and diverse disease states, its role in GDM is still unknown. Here, based on observation data from healthy pregnant control group and GDM patients, we developed a new network approach using patterns of co-abundance of microorganism to construct microbial networks that represent human-specific information about gut microbiota in different groups. By calculating network similarity in different groups, we analyze the gut microbiome from 27 GDM subjects collected before and after two weeks of diet therapy compared with 30 control subjects to identify the health condition of microbial community balance in GDM subjects. Although the microbial communities remain similar after the diet phase, we find that the structure of their inter-species co-abundance network is significantly altered, which is reflected in that the ecological balance of GDM patients was not "healthier" after the diet intervention. In addition, we devised a method for individualized network analysis of the microbiome, thereby a pattern is found that GDM individuals whose microbial networks are with large deviations from the GDM group are usually accompanied by their abnormal glucose regulation. This approach may help the development of individualized diagnosis strategies and microbiome-based therapies in the future.
Analytical validation of quantitative SARS-CoV-2 subgenomic and viral load laboratory developed tests conducted on the Panther Fusion® (Hologic) with preliminary application to clinical samples
Authors: Lakhal-Naouar Ines , Hack Holly R. , Moradel Edgar , Jarra Amie , Grove Hannah L. , Ismael Rani M. , Padilla Steven , Coleman Dante , Ouellette Jason , Darden Janice , Storme Casey , Peachman Kristina K. , Hall Tara L. , Huhtanen Mark E. , Scott Paul T. , Hakre Shilpa , Jagodzinski Linda L. , Peel Sheila A.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Validate the performance characteristics of two analyte specific, laboratory developed tests (LDTs) for the quantification of SARS-CoV-2 subgenomic RNA (sgRNA) and viral load on the Hologic Panther Fusion® using the Open Access functionality.

Methods

Custom-designed primers/probe sets targeting the SARS-CoV-2 Envelope gene (E) and subgenomic E were optimized. A 20-day performance validation following laboratory developed test requirements was conducted to assess assay precision, accuracy, analytical sensitivity/specificity, lower limit of detection and reportable range.

Results

Quantitative SARS-CoV-2 sgRNA (LDT-Quant sgRNA) assay, which measures intermediates of replication, and viral load (LDT-Quant VLCoV) assay demonstrated acceptable performance. Both assays were linear with an R2 and slope equal to 0.99 and 1.00, respectively. Assay precision was evaluated between 4–6 Log10 with a maximum CV of 2.6% and 2.5% for LDT-Quant sgRNA and LDT-Quant VLCoV respectively. Using negative or positive SARS-CoV-2 human nasopharyngeal swab samples, both assays were accurate (kappa coefficient of 1.00 and 0.92). Common respiratory flora and other viral pathogens were not detected and did not interfere with the detection or quantification by either assay. Based on 95% detection, the assay LLODs were 729 and 1206 Copies/mL for the sgRNA and VL load LDTs, respectively.

Conclusion

The LDT-Quant sgRNA and LDT-Quant VLCoV demonstrated good analytical performance. These assays could be further investigated as alternative monitoring assays for viral replication; and thus, medical management in clinical settings which could inform isolation/quarantine requirements.
An amino acid substitution in HCV core antigen limits its use as a reliable measure of HCV infection compared with HCV RNA
Authors: Hansoongnern Payuda , Pratedrat Pornpitra , Nilyanimit Pornjarim , Wasitthankasem Rujipat , Posuwan Nawarat , Wanlapakorn Nasamon , Kodchakorn Kanchanok , Kongtawelert Prachya , Pimsing Napaporn , Poovorawan Yong
Published: June 2023

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a viral pathogen that causes chronic hepatitis, which can lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Detection of HCV RNA is the standard method used to diagnose the disease and monitor antiviral treatment. A quantification assay for the HCV core antigen (HCVcAg) has been proposed as a simplified alternative to the HCV RNA test for predicting active HCV infection, with the aim of achieving the global goal of eliminating hepatitis. The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between HCV RNA and HCVcAg, as well as the impact of amino acid sequence heterogeneity on HCVcAg quantification. Our findings demonstrated a strong positive correlation between HCV RNA and HCVcAg across all HCV genotypes (1a, 1b, 3a, and 6), with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.88 to 0.96 (p < 0.001). However, in some cases, samples with genotypes 3a and 6 exhibited lower HCVcAg levels than expected based on the corresponding HCV RNA values. Upon the core amino acid sequence alignment, it was observed that samples exhibiting low core antigen levels had an amino acid substitution at position 49, where threonine was replaced by either alanine or valine. Core mutation at this position may correlate with one of the epitope regions recognized by anti-HCV monoclonal antibodies. The present findings suggest that the utilization of HCVcAg as a standalone marker for HCV RNA might not provide adequate sensitivity for the detection of HCV infection, especially in cases where there are variations in the amino acid sequence of the core region and a low viral load of HCV RNA.
Association between caffeine consumption and bone mineral density in children and adolescent: Observational and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cui Aiyong , Xiao Peilun , He Jing , Fan Zhiqiang , Xie Mengli , Chen Long , Zhuang Yan , Wang Hu
Published: June 2023

Background

Coffee is the most commonly consumed beverage among children and adolescences. Caffeine was demonstrated to be associated with bone metabolism. However, the relationship between caffeine intake and BMD in children and adolescents remains unclear. This study aimed to identified relationship between caffeine consumption and bone mineral density (BMD) in children and adolescents.

Methods

Based on National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we conducted an epidemiological cross-section study to measure the relationship between caffeine consumption and BMD in children and adolescents by multivariate linear regression models. Then, five methods of Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were performed to estimate their causal relationship between coffee and caffeine intake and BMD in children and adolescents. MR-Egger and inverse-variance weighted (IVW) were used to evaluate the heterogeneity effect of instrumental variables (IVs).

Results

In epidemiological studies, individuals with the highest quartile of caffeine intake do not have a significant change in femur neck BMD (β = 0.0016, 95% CI: -0.0096, 0.0129, P = 0.7747), total femur BMD (β = 0.0019, P = 0.7552), and total spine BMD (β = 0.0081, P = 0.1945) compared with the lowest quartile. In MR analysis, the IVW-random effect indicates no causal relationship between coffee consumption and TB- BMD (β = 0.0034, P = 0.0910). Other methods of MR analyses and sensitivity analysis reveals consistent findings. Similarly, the fixed-effects IVW method shows no causal association between caffeine intake and TB-BMD in children and adolescents (β = 0.0202, P = 0.7828).

Conclusions

Our study does not support a causal relationship between caffeine consumption and BMD in children and adolescents. However, more studies are needed to verify our findings, such as its underlying molecular mechanisms and the long-term impact of early caffeine exposure at a younger age.
Phylogenetic relations among Mexican phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) and their divergence time estimation
Authors: Lozano-Sardaneta Yokomi N. , Díaz-Cruz Jesús A. , Viveros-Santos Vicente , Ibáñez-Bernal Sergio , Huerta Herón , Marina Carlos F. , Mis-Ávila Pedro C. , Martínez-Burgos Maribel , Torres-Monzón Jorge A. , Sánchez-Cordero Víctor , Becker Ingeborg
Published: June 2023

Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) have biological relevance as vectors of several pathogens. To ensure periodic entomological monitoring it is necessary to have efficient and accurate tools for an adequate taxonomic identification. There are only few studies on phylogenetic analyses of phlebotomine sand flies from Neotropics, based mostly on morphological and/or molecular data, which makes the delimitation of intra- and interspecific variability of species challenging. Here we generated new molecular information on sand fly species distributed in endemic areas of leishmaniasis in Mexico, using mitochondrial and ribosomal genes, and incorporating morphological information available. Specifically, we established their phylogenetic relationships, and estimated their divergence time. Our study provides molecular information for 15 phlebotomine sand fly species from different areas of Mexico, contributing to the genetic inventory and phylogenetic relations among Neotropical species of the subfamily Phlebotominae. Mitochondrial genes proved to be suitable markers for the molecular identification of phlebotomine sand flies. However, the incorporation of additional nuclear gene information could increase the significance of phylogenetic inferences. We also provided evidence about a possible divergence time of phlebotomine sand fly species, supporting their presumable origin in the Cretaceous period.
Engineering application of vacuum preloading combined with electroosmosis technique in excavation of soft soil on complex terrain
Authors: Sun Zhaohua , Geng Jingxian , Wei Guowei , Li Wenjin
Published: June 2023

This paper presents the design and construction of vacuum preloading incorporated with electroosmosis (VPE) engineering application for the treatment of soft soil on complex terrain for sluice foundation excavation in order to reduce the amount of cement used in construction. Monitoring was conducted during the VPE treatment and laboratory geotechnical tests were carried out once the treatment came to an end. Results show that the electrification mode has a significant influence on electric energy consumption. Stepped-up voltage helped in saving electric energy while electrode conversion consumed a lot of electric energy. The dispersion of soil parameters became larger after VPE treatment. The stability of physical parameters is better than the mechanical parameters, and the latter is better than the deformation parameters. Soil water content has a linear relationship with density and compression coefficient. The given linear fitting equations can help in simplifying the calculation and acquisition of these indexes. Although the mean values of the soil index parameters slightly improved, their coefficient of variation (COV) significantly increased. These locations with improved index parameters scattering in the construction site ensured that the subsequent construction tasks such as pit slope and excavation were successfully realized in this area.
How to not induce SNAs: The insufficiency of directional force
Authors: Michirev A. , Kühne K. , Lindemann O. , Fischer M. H. , Raab M.
Published: June 2023

People respond faster to smaller numbers in their left space and to larger numbers in their right space. Here we argue that movements in space contribute to the formation of spatial-numerical associations (SNAs). We studied the impact of continuous isometric forces along the horizontal or vertical cardinal axes on SNAs while participants performed random number production and arithmetic verification tasks. Our results suggest that such isometric directional force do not suffice to induce SNAs.
Neurodevelopmental outcomes in individuals with VACTERL association. A population-based cohort study
Authors: Kassa Ann-Marie , Lilja Helene Engstrand
Published: June 2023

Background

Studies on neurodevelopmental outcomes in individuals with congenital anomalies who undergo neonatal surgery are scarce and have reported contradictory findings based on small study groups. The congenital condition VACTERL association includes at least three malformations: vertebral anomalies, anorectal malformations, cardiac defects, tracheoesophageal fistula with or without esophageal atresia, renal anomalies and limb deformities. Most of these patients undergo surgery during their first days of life. Neurodevelopmental disorders include a broad group of disabilities involving some form of disruption to brain development. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID) are diagnoses included in this group. The aim of the study was to investigate the risk of ADHD, ASD and ID in a cohort of individuals with VACTERL association.

Method

Data was obtained from four Swedish national health registers and analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model. Patients born 1973–2018 in Sweden with the diagnosis of VACTERL association were included in the study. For each case five healthy controls matched for sex, gestational age at birth, birth year and birth county were obtained.

Results

The study included 136 individuals with VACTERL association and 680 controls. Individuals with VACTERL had significantly higher risk of ADHD, ASD and ID than the controls; 2.25 (95% CI, 1.03–4.91), 5.15 (95% CI, 1.93–13.72) and 8.13 (95% CI, 2.66–24.87) times respectively.

Conclusions

A higher risk of ADHD, ASD and ID was found among individuals with VACTERL association compared to controls. These results are of importance to caregivers and to professionals participating in follow ups of these patients in providing early diagnosis and support, aiming to optimize the quality of life of these patients.
Guerra contra o inimigo invisível
Authors: De Souza Marques Osvaldo , Dietrich Monica , Camargos Firme Paulo Henrique
Published: June 2023

O combate à pandemia da COVID-19 no Brasil e mais especificamente no estado de Minas Gerais provocou a adoção de estratégias e de medidas inovadoras que foram muito importantes para o enfrentamento e para o controle da doença no território mineiro. Dentre as diversas inovações implantadas, a parceria promovida entre a Secretaria Estadual de Saúde com a Coordenadoria Estadual de Defesa Civil e os órgãos de Segurança Pública possibilitou a entrega em tempo recorde das vacinas para todos os municípios mineiros, bem como o estabelecimento do Sistema de Comando em Operações com a promoção da integração de recursos e controle dos dados e informações. Portanto, o presente artigo tem o objetivo de descrever as ações e medidas que foram adotadas e com isso, apresentar os resultados e aprendizados obtidos. Ele foi desenvolvido pela realização de um estudo de caso aplicado. Para a compreensão do leitor foi feita uma breve revisão de literatura. Para a avaliação dos resultados foram aplicados questionários com os coordenadores municipais de proteção e defesa civil, bem como os secretários de saúde dos municípios.