bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facial expression morphing: enhancing visual fidelity and preserving facial details in CycleGAN-based expression synthesis
Authors: Sub-r-pa Chayanon , Chen Rung-Ching , Fan Ming-Zhong
Published: October 2024

Recent advancements in facial expression synthesis using deep learning, particularly with Cycle-Consistent Adversarial Networks (CycleGAN), have led to impressive results. However, a critical challenge persists: the generated expressions often lack the sharpness and fine details of the original face, such as freckles, moles, or birthmarks. To address this issue, we introduce the Facial Expression Morphing (FEM) algorithm, a novel post-processing method designed to enhance the visual fidelity of CycleGAN-based outputs. The FEM method blends the input image with the generated expression, prioritizing the preservation of crucial facial details. We experimented with our method on the Radboud Faces Database (RafD) and evaluated employing the Fréchet Inception Distance (FID) standard benchmark for image-to-image translation and introducing a new metric, FSD (Facial Similarity Distance), to specifically measure the similarity between translated and real images. Our comprehensive analysis of CycleGAN, UNet Vision Transformer cycle-consistent GAN versions 1 (UVCGANv1) and 2 (UVCGANv2) reveals a substantial enhancement in image clarity and preservation of intricate details. The average FID score of 31.92 achieved by our models represents a remarkable 50% reduction compared to the previous state-of-the-art model’s score of 63.82, showcasing the significant advancements made in this domain. This substantial enhancement in image quality is further supported by our proposed FSD metric, which shows a closer resemblance between FEM-processed images and the original faces.
House sparrows do not show a diel rhythm in double-strand DNA damage in erythrocytes
Authors: Rosen Emma , Mikolajczak Lily , Beattie Ursula K. , Romero L. Michael
Published: October 2024

DNA damage can be caused by a number of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. A recent study showed that free-living house sparrows (Passer domesticus) have higher DNA damage in the summer than the winter across five different tissues. This result was consistent when house sparrows were brought into captivity and exposed to comparable light cycles, with all other variables held constant. These results generated two hypotheses: (1) seasonal variation in DNA damage is related to circadian regulation and (2) seasonal variation in DNA damage is related to the total number of active hours. To investigate these hypotheses, we first quantified erythrocyte DNA damage in wild-caught house sparrows held in captivity on a 12L:12D light cycle at six points during the day to assess a diel or circadian rhythm but did not find one. We then performed a resonance experiment, in which birds experienced unnatural light cycles, and compared DNA damage in birds held on 6L:6D and 4.5L:7.5D resonance light cycles with their natural counterparts, 12L:12D and 9L:15D, respectively. We assessed corticosterone levels and DNA damage in blood before and after the resonance light cycles and DNA damage in abdominal fat, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and liver after the resonance light cycles. While our second experiment was not able to effectively test our hypotheses, we were able to demonstrate some interesting patterns. Throughout the resonance experiment, baseline corticosterone and testes size increased, consistent with the birds being photostimulated and preparing to breed. Surprisingly, the direction of change of DNA damage throughout the resonance photoperiod differed with tissue, which is not consistent with patterns during the breeding season in the wild. Our data indicate a potential uncoupling of the breeding physiology with the effect on DNA damage due to exposure to a resonance light cycle, which the birds may have interpreted as a skeleton photoperiod. Finally, though we were unable to fully disentangle the dynamics underlying seasonal DNA damage, we show that the previously documented patterns are not simply due to diel changes or the total amount of light exposure within a 24-hour period.
Gestão do risco empresarial em micro e pequenas empresas de construção civil no Brasil: identificação dos principais obstáculos
Authors: Pegorim José Fontes , Santos João Alberto Neves dos , Brasiliano Antônio Celso Ribeiro , Mata Eduardo Keller da , Bezerra Vitor Cézar Rodrigues , Cavalcante Karen Fernanda Sabá
Published: October 2024

Micro e pequenas empresas (MPE) da indústria da construção civil (ICC) no Brasil precisam implementar a gestão de risco empresarial (GRE) em suas atividades diárias, de forma a melhorar seu desempenho. No entanto, já foram levantados diversos obstáculos que impedem que essa implementação seja efetiva. Esta pesquisa tem o objetivo de investigar quais os principais obstáculos que impedem a implementação da GRE nas MPEs no Brasil. A pesquisa utilizou um questionário com 27 assertivas, representando os obstáculos encontrados na literatura, estruturado com base em escala Likert, que foi aplicado a gestores de MPEs da ICC. Os dados coletados foram normalizados e submetidos ao teste t para identificar os principais obstáculos. Os resultados demonstram que, dos 27 obstáculos analisadas, 8 devem ser superados para viabilizar a implementação da GRE nas MPE da ICC no Brasil: falta de pessoal qualificado para implementar a gestão de riscos; falta de técnicas e ferramentas de gestão de riscos; falta de dados; falta de um plano de implementação claro da gestão de riscos; falta de um processo formalizado de gestão de riscos; falta de um sistema de informações de gestão de riscos; falta de suporte dos gestores da empresa; e a gestão de riscos não ser vista como prioridade pelos gestores.
Modified Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles for Photocatalytic Splitting of Water and Its Application in Environmental Remediation as a Potential Alternative
Authors: Bbumba Simon , Arum Chinaecherem Tochukwu , Kigozi Moses , Karume Ibrahim , Nsamba Hussein Kisiki , Kiganda Ivan , Murungi Moses , Ssekatawa John , Nazziwa Resty Alexandra , Yikii Collins Letibo
Published: October 2024

Herein we reviewed Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles and how they are applied in the photocatalytic splitting of water to generate hydrogen but also to remove both organic and inorganic pollutants. Hydrogen generation through the splitting of water by TiO2 which is a cheap, efficient, and non-toxic photocatalyst has found wide application in clean energy production. The efficiency of the photocatalyst can be improved by using water or sacrificial agents as electron donors, thereby enhancing hydrogen production. In addition, this review explores the fundamental principles, mechanisms, and applications of TiO2-based photocatalysis. It further, highlights the structural properties, bandgap engineering, and surface modifications that influence the catalytic activity of TiO2. Additionally, we discuss the doping of TiO2 with both metals and non-metals to narrow the energy band gap which lowers the recombination effects. Finally, it introduces the potential applications of TiO2-based photocatalysis in the photodegradation of organic and inorganic pollutants.
Effect of Organic Manures and Chemical Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.)
Authors: Jangid Kishan , Jakhar Chandrakanta , Gurjar Om Prakash , Suman Bhagwan , Yadav Indra Raj
Published: October 2024

A field experiment was conducted at experimental farm, Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, Mewar University Gangrar, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan) during Rabi season of 2023-24 to effect of organic manures and chemical fertilizers on growth and yield of green gram, variety “SML-832‟ was used in this study. The required quantities of fertilizers as per treatments were applied. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications consisting of ten treatments. The data recorded maximum growth parameters like, plant height (51.45 cm), number of branches per plant (4.08) and yield parameters like, number of pods per plant (20.58, number of seeds per pod (8.65), test weight (38.92 g), grain yield (1106.45 kg/ha), straw yield (2583.85 kg/ha) and maximum net return (48100 Rs/ha) and B:C ratio (1.58) was recorded with T9-75% Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha. The minimum growth and yield obtained with control treatment. Therefore, concluded that impact of different organic manures and chemical fertilizers on the growth and yield of the green gram. Among different T9-75% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha registered the maximum production with higher net return.  So, it was concluded that the treatment 75% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha superior among all treatments.
Historical Background, Origin, Distribution & Present Status of Wood Apple
Authors: Shukla Usha , Lata Rubee , Maji Sutanu , Razauddin  , Meena Ramesh Chand
Published: October 2024

Wood apple (Feronia limonia L.; Rutaceae family) commonly known as poor man’s fruit in India due to its several nutraceutical importance, is native to South India and Sri Lanka.  Sanskrit term, “kapittha,” receives several mentions in a number of ancient texts including “Hinduism: an Alphabetical Guide”. Buddhist scholar mentioned wood apple as an Indian fruit while, military commander and poet Chauvundaraya (940-989AD) listed wood apple in numerous medicinal remedies and also mentioned in Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. Wood apple has been planted extensively or being allowed to grow naturally in the reserved forests throughout Southeast Asia, Northern Malaysia and on Penang Island. In India, it is more common in Deccan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Chhatishgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Odisha, however, no data is available for its area and production. Unfortunately, the lack of attention has meant that their potential value is under-exploited and they are in danger of continued genetic erosion, ultimately leading to disappearance. Therefore, it is necessary to spread the awareness of its importance among common people and researches to identify superior genotypes, production problems of wood apple for their ex-situ collection, conservation, evaluation and utilization that is being explained by this study after having various literatures available in different forms from different sources. This review article will help future researchers to conserve as well as explore the possible benefits of this crop to the common people harnessing societal value of growers.
Genetic Diversity of Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes under Low Level of Nitrogen
Authors: Mahto Mukesh , Chakraborty Manigopa , Mahto Chandrashekhar , Kumar Bhupendra , Ankita  , Priya Sushma
Published: October 2024

Maize (Zea mays L.) is India's second most significant crop, behind rice. As a cross-pollinated crop, hybrid vigour is commonly used to achieve the best production potential. The selection of various genotypes is a primary goal in the maize hybrid breeding programme. Maize is a voracious feeder and requires a lot of fertiliser. The biggest limits on maize production in India are low soil nitrogen and high fertiliser costs. Jharkhand consumes only 82.5 kg of total fertiliser nutrients per acre. In order to discover genetically varied maize genotypes for nitrogen usage efficiency, the current study evaluated 121 maize genotypes in a randomised block design with two replications at low nitrogen levels. Plant height, days to 50% pollen shed, days to 50% silk, anthesis-silking interval (ASI), days to75% maturity, number of leaves per plant, root length, stover yield per plant, grain yield per plant, and harvest index were all recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using the morphological trait data. Analysis of variance revealed substantial (p≤0.05) variations in morphological features between maize genotypes. For statistical analysis, a clustering method was used to locate various genotypes with greater genetic distance in order to develop good heterotic combinations. One hundred twenty one genotypes were divided into six clusters using the dendogram-by-ward minimum variance approach. Cluster III and V had the greatest inter-cluster distance (79.26), followed by cluster III and VI (74.77) and cluster II and III (73.80). The many heterotic combinations developed from these clusters can be employed in subsequent breeding programmes to produce low nitrogen-requiring hybrids with a low yield penalty.
Efeitos Do Mendifulness No Tratamento Da Ansiedade Em Adultos
Authors: Arguello Leandro Rachel , Oliveira Layara Michelle Dantas De , França Denise Alves De Oliveira , Aguiar Gracielle Almeida De , Neres Saul De Melo Ibiapina
Published: October 2024

O transtorno de ansiedade é uma das condições de saúde mental mais comuns em adultos, afetando milhões globalmente. Devido ao aumento do estresse e das pressões da vida moderna, há uma busca crescente por intervenções alternativas, como o mindfulness, que foca a atenção no presente de maneira não julgadora. Pesquisas recentes indicam que o mindfulness é eficaz na redução de sintomas de ansiedade e promoção do bemestar (Silva, 2022; Almeida, 2021). Derivado das tradições budistas, o mindfulness foi adaptado para intervenções terapêuticas, como o Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) e a Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), amplamente usadas para tratar ansiedade (Ferreira, 2020). Este estudo investiga os efeitos do mindfulness no tratamento da ansiedade em adultos, utilizando uma metanálise para integrar os achados de várias pesquisas anteriores (Gonçalves, 2021). O mindfulness mostrou-se eficaz na redução dos níveis de ansiedade, promoção da autocompaixão e melhoria da regulação emocional (Oliveira, 2020). Esses benefícios são particularmente importantes para pessoas com ansiedade crônica, onde tratamentos convencionais podem ser limitados ou causar efeitos colaterais (Sousa, 2023). Os estudos analisados focaram em adultos com transtornos de ansiedade generalizada, pânico e ansiedade social, e mostraram reduções significativas dos sintomas físicos e emocionais da ansiedade (Costa, 2022). A eficácia do mindfulness depende, no entanto, da regularidade da prática e do grau de envolvimento do participante (Almeida, 2022). Conclui-se que o mindfulness é uma intervenção promissora, embora mais pesquisas sejam necessárias para compreender melhor os fatores que influenciam sua eficácia (Ferreira, 2021; Silva, 2022).
Educação Em Nuvem: Vantagens E Desafios Da Utilização De Plataformas Baseadas Em Cloud Computing
Authors: Ramalho Raucy Dantas Wanderley , Silva Ana Cristina Gomes , Oliveira Leandro Gilson De , Lima Odaize Do Socorro Ferreira Cavalcante , Lima Agnaldo Braga
Published: October 2024

A educação em nuvem, ou o uso de plataformas baseadas em cloud computing no ensino, tem se destacado como uma inovação importante na era digital, permitindo que instituições de ensino ofereçam acesso flexível, escalável e colaborativo a conteúdos educacionais e ferramentas pedagógicas. Esta abordagem utiliza os recursos da nuvem para armazenar, processar e distribuir dados, promovendo um ambiente de aprendizado acessível a qualquer momento e em qualquer lugar, desde que haja uma conexão à internet. As plataformas baseadas em nuvem trazem diversas vantagens, incluindo a redução de custos com infraestrutura, a facilidade de atualização de conteúdos e sistemas, e a integração de ferramentas colaborativas que estimulam a interação entre alunos e professores. Entre as principais vantagens da educação em nuvem, destaca-se a acessibilidade ampliada ao conteúdo educacional. Alunos podem acessar materiais didáticos, bibliotecas virtuais, ferramentas de aprendizado e avaliações de qualquer dispositivo conectado à internet, o que permite uma maior flexibilidade no processo de ensino-aprendizagem. Além disso, a escalabilidade dessas plataformas possibilita que instituições de todos os portes ajustem os recursos conforme a demanda, otimizando o uso de tecnologias educacionais de ponta sem a necessidade de grandes investimentos em infraestrutura física. Outro benefício relevante é a colaboração entre os alunos, que é facilitada por ferramentas integradas, como salas de aula virtuais, plataformas de discussão e sistemas de coautoria em tempo real. Isso transforma o aprendizado em um processo mais dinâmico e interativo, permitindo que os alunos trabalhem em conjunto, troquem experiências e compartilhem conhecimentos, mesmo que estejam geograficamente distantes. As plataformas de cloud computing também simplificam a gestão acadêmica, oferecendo soluções para o armazenamento de grandes volumes de dados, o que permite um controle mais eficiente de informações sobre alunos, currículos e resultados de aprendizagem. Contudo, a adoção da educação em nuvem enfrenta desafios significativos. Um dos principais é a segurança e a privacidade dos dados. Como grande parte das informações acadêmicas e pessoais dos alunos é armazenada em servidores remotos, há riscos associados à exposição a ataques cibernéticos e à violação de dados sensíveis. Esse fator é particularmente crítico em instituições que lidam com um volume elevado de dados
Assistive Technologies In Teaching Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Crepaldi Adailza Alves De Sousa , Silva Eliana Aparecida Da , Silva Luciana Bertodo Da , Oliveira Nilda Jaqueline Rodrigues De , Montes Katia Silvia De Castro
Published: October 2024

Este artigo aborda a implementação de tecnologias assistivas no ambiente escolar, com foco nas crianças com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA). As tecnologias assistivas, como dispositivos de comunicação alternativa e softwares interativos, são fundamentais para promover o desenvolvimento cognitivo e social dessas crianças, permitindo maior participação nas atividades escolares e oferecendo um aprendizado personalizado. Essas ferramentas são essenciais para facilitar a inclusão, uma vez que ajudam a superar barreiras de comunicação e interação que dificultam o progresso acadêmico e social dos alunos com TEA. Entretanto, a adoção dessas tecnologias enfrenta desafios importantes. A falta de formação adequada dos professores é um dos principais obstáculos, pois muitos não estão preparados para utilizar esses recursos de maneira eficaz. Além disso, a infraestrutura deficiente em diversas escolas, especialmente nas redes públicas, e o alto custo de dispositivos e softwares assistivos limitam o acesso e a implementação dessas ferramentas em larga escala. Apesar dessas dificuldades, as tecnologias assistivas oferecem grandes oportunidades para transformar o ambiente escolar, beneficiando não só os alunos com TEA, mas toda a comunidade educativa. O artigo sugere que, para superar esses desafios, é necessário fortalecer as políticas públicas voltadas à educação inclusiva, oferecer capacitação contínua aos educadores e promover a colaboração entre escola, família e especialistas. Em conclusão, as
Gestão Pública E O Ambiente Macroeconômico: O Caso Da Disputa De Poder Na Coligação “Com A Força Do Povo” E O Impeachment De Dilma Rousseff
Authors: Mello Elder Estevão De
Published: October 2024

O presente artigo visa estudar o nascimento da coligação “Com a Força do Povo” nas eleições para a presidência do Brasil em 2014 e a forma como ocorreu a sua dissolução, demarcando o cenário em que transformações históricas afetaram o destino político e econômico do país de maneira brusca e vertiginosa. Destaca as principais características da estrutura política brasileira e os componentes econômicos que tiveram como resultado final o impeachment da Presidente da República Dilma Rousseff em 2016. Descrevendo historicamente a Gestão Pública no âmbito federal que constituiu o ambiente macroeconômico que foi determinante para o desempenho do setor produtivo no país. Os elementos essenciais destas transformações passaram pela aproximação nacional de dois protagonistas: o Partido dos Trabalhadores (PT) e o Partido do Movimento Democrático Brasileiro (PMDB).
Corporate Governance Mechanisms And Internet Financial Reporting Of Selected Quoted Manufacturing Companies In Nigeria (2012-2021)
Authors: Solomon Adedeji Adewale , Akinlo Mrs. O. O.
Published: October 2024

The study analysed online financial reporting practices among listed manufacturing organisations and investigated the level of compliance with regulations. It determined the effect of corporate governance mechanisms on internet reportage of finance among manufacturing firms in Nigeria. These were done with a view to examining the relationship that exists between corporate governance mechanisms and internet financial reporting among Nigerian manufacturing firms. The study adopted a longitudinal research design. For this investigation, secondary data were used. The study's participants comprised 86 manufacturing firms quoted on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) between 2012 and 2021. A total of 22 manufacturing companies were purposefully selected due to the availability of complete data during the research period and the adoption of IFRS. The data was collected from the websites of the manufacturing companies and their certified financial records. The data covered IFRS disclosure items classified into presentation format and content (FASB 2000), percentage of the independent director, composition of board committees, board diligence, audit committee size, non-executive director as part of the audit committee, internal control management (as mandated by CAMA 2003, CAMA 2020, SEC 2011, and NCCG 2018), and control variables (profitability and leverage). The results showed that corporate governance mechanism measured by board size (t = 5.09, p < 0.05), risk assessment (t = 5.34, p < 0.05), board diligence (t = 2.42, p < 0.05) had a significant effect on internet financial reporting, while Audit committee (t=1.8 p>0.05) had no significant effect on internet financial reporting among Nigeria manufacturing firms. The study concluded that corporate governance mechanisms enhanced internet financial reporting of quoted manufacturing companies in Nigeria
Desafios E Inovações Na Descoberta E Desenvolvimento De Fármacos: Uma Análise Das Novas Tecnologias De Alta Performance
Authors: Albuquerque Raquel Angélica Andrade Corrêa De , Pessoa Débora Luana Ribeiro , Ramos Magno Oliveira , Lima Odaize Do Socorro Ferreira Cavalcante , Lima Agnaldo Braga
Published: October 2024

O desenvolvimento de fármacos tem evoluído significativamente nas últimas décadas, impulsionado por avanços tecnológicos que aceleram a descoberta e a produção de novos medicamentos. Neste artigo, serão analisadas como essas inovações de alto desempenho, incluindo inteligência artificial (IA), big data, e plataformas computacionais de rastreamento de fármacos, que transformaram o cenário da indústria farmacêutica. A personalização de terapias, o desenvolvimento de medicamentos mais eficazes e o aumento na eficiência dos processos de pesquisa e desenvolvimento são alguns dos principais benefícios trazidos pelas novas tecnologias. Contudo, ainda existem desafios importantes, como o alto custo de implementação, a regulamentação rigorosa e as questões éticas associadas ao uso de IA e automação na área da saúde. Este artigo examina como essas inovações estão sendo aplicadas atualmente e as oportunidades que podem oferecer para o futuro da medicina. Serão considerados também os desafios enfrentados pela indústria, como a necessidade de equilibrar a inovação com a segurança dos pacientes, além das implicações regulatórias e éticas que acompanham o desenvolvimento de novos medicamentos. Ao longo do artigo, serão apresentadas as tecnologias de última geração que estão sendo utilizadas para descobrir novas moléculas, otimizar processos de síntese química e melhorar o rastreamento pré-clínico e clínico de medicamentos
Integração De Tecnologias Assistivas No Currículo De Formação De Professores Para A Educação Especial
Authors: Moraes Gelcimara Martins De , Machado Lucelia Gomes Costa , Rodrigues Charllyngton Fábio Da Silva , Lima Odaize Do Socorro Ferreira Cavalcante , Lima Agnaldo Braga
Published: October 2024

A integração de tecnologias assistivas no currículo de formação de professores para a educação especial tem se tornado uma questão central no campo educacional, dada a necessidade de garantir a inclusão e acessibilidade dos alunos com deficiência. As tecnologias assistivas (TAs) abrangem dispositivos e recursos que auxiliam indivíduos com deficiências a superar barreiras físicas, cognitivas e sensoriais, promovendo maior autonomia e participação no ambiente escolar (Moura, 2020; Silva, 2019). No entanto, a incorporação eficaz dessas tecnologias no processo educacional requer que os professores estejam preparados para utilizá-las de maneira adequada e eficiente, o que enfatiza a importância de sua inclusão nos currículos de formação docente. Este artigo analisa o papel das TAs na educação especial e a necessidade de sua integração na formação inicial e continuada de professores. A revisão da literatura e a análise de políticas educacionais revelam que, embora haja avanços significativos em termos de recursos tecnológicos disponíveis, a formação dos professores ainda é insuficiente para garantir o uso adequado dessas ferramentas no dia a dia da sala de aula (Gonçalves, 2021; Costa, 2020). A pesquisa sugere que a inclusão de disciplinas e práticas pedagógicas focadas em TAs no currículo de formação de professores é fundamental para garantir a equidade no ensino e atender às demandas dos alunos com deficiência. As palavras-chave deste estudo são: tecnologias assistivas, formação de professores, educação especial, inclusão, acessibilidade
Problematique D’electrification De La Ville De Butembo
Authors: Pétillon Katembo Kamavu , Elysée Kakule Muvakuli , Ambroise Vunoka Kinywasilwanzo , Adalbert Musubao Kalekene , Merveille Et Kahambu Kasayi
Published: October 2024

Au fil du temps, l’énergie électrique s’est montrée comme gage de la prospérité et du progrès dans tous les domaines de la vie humaine. Semblée ignorée dans les âges les plus reculés de l’histoire, l’électricité est actuellement le moteur du développement économique et social de toute société qui se veut moderne. Comme le feu du temps de l’homme préhistorique, l’électricité a changé la vie de l’humanité. Elle est devenue indispensable à tout ce qui fait notre vie quotidienne comme se nourrir, se chauffer, s’éclairer, se laver, soigner, communiquer, se déplacer, fabriquer, construire etc. Grâce à l’électricité, le monde peut parler de la révolution technologique tant applaudie par tous. Ce travail met à lumière la distribution du courant électrique en ville de Butembo, le niveau de satisfaction des habitants de cette ville, leurs attentes et leurs aspirations sur le courant électrique. Nous exposons ici les garanties de protection au cas où leurs droits seraient méconnus par ceux qui sont sensés en assurer la protection et fin, nous formulons des perspectives pour l’avenir aux fins d’amélioration de la déserte en électricité dans la même ville.
A Inconstitucionalidade De Polít
Authors: Silva José Antonio Da , Jesus José Welington De , Mansano Silvana , Neto Paulo De Jesus Pereira , Costa Sirenia Dos Santos Rodrigues Da
Published: October 2024

O presente estudo investiga a inconstitucionalidade das políticas educacionais excludentes no Brasil à luz do Direito Constitucional, abordando as violações aos princípios da igualdade e dignidade humana consagrados na Constituição Federal de 1988. Utilizando uma abordagem interdisciplinar, que integra Direito, Educação e Psicologia, o estudo também analisa os impactos psicológicos da exclusão educacional sobre crianças e adolescentes, explorando como o isolamento e a privação de acesso à educação afetam o bem-estar emocional e o desenvolvimento psicossocial dos estudantes. Com base em revisão bibliográfica, análise documental e estudo de casos emblemáticos, o trabalho propõe soluções jurídicas e pedagógicas que visam promover uma educação inclusiva e a efetivação dos direitos fundamentais previstos na Constituição. As conclusões indicam a necessidade urgente de políticas públicas que combatam a exclusão educacional, garantindo uma educação de qualidade e igualitária para todos os cidadãos, especialmente os grupos historicamente marginalizados.
Aplicabilidade De Energias Verdes Para A Sustentabilidade Empresarial: Perspectivas Para Uma Governança Social, Ambiental E Corporativa (ESG)
Authors: Nunes Kennya Rodrigues , Andrade Patrícia Marinho De , Leão Airton Pereira Da Silva , Busto Murilo De Oliveira , Santos Rodolfo Martins Dos
Published: October 2024

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar a integração das energias verdes nas práticas de Governança Social, Ambiental e Corporativa (ESG) e seu impacto na sustentabilidade empresarial. Utilizando uma abordagem bibliográfica, foram coletadas e analisadas publicações acadêmicas de plataformas como Scielo e Scopus, permitindo uma compreensão aprofundada do tema. Os resultados indicaram que a adoção de fontes de energia renováveis, como solar e eólica, não apenas reduz a pegada de carbono das empresas, mas também oferece vantagens competitivas, como economia de custos e fortalecimento da imagem corporativa. A análise revelou que práticas ESG são cada vez mais valorizadas por investidores e consumidores, ressaltando a importância da transparência e da responsabilidade social. Em conclusão, a pesquisa demonstrou que a implementação de energias verdes, alinhada aos princípios ESG, é crucial para que as empresas não apenas atendam às exigências atuais, mas também se posicionem de maneira sustentável e ética no mercado futuro.
Dependence of Generation of Whistler Mode Chorus Emissions on the Temperature Anisotropy and Density of Energetic Electrons in the Earth's Inner Magnetosphere
Authors: Katoh Y. , Omura Y. , Miyake Y. , Usui H. , Nakashima H.
Published: January 2018

We carry out a series of self‐consistent electron hybrid code simulations for the dependence of chorus generation process on the temperature anisotropy and density of energetic electrons in the Earth's inner magnetosphere. We use the same magnetic field gradient in the simulation system and different temperature anisotropy AT for the initial distribution of energetic electrons at the magnetic equator. We conduct 6 sets of simulations for different AT from 4 to 9, changing the initial number density Nh of energetic electrons at the equator in each set of simulations. By analyzing the spectra obtained in the simulation results, we identify chorus elements with rising tones in the results for higher Nh but no distinct chorus in smaller Nh. We compare the simulation results with estimations of the threshold and optimum amplitude proposed by the nonlinear wave growth theory. We find that the chorus generation processes reproduced in the simulation results are consistently explained by the theoretical estimates. We also compare the simulation results with linear growth rates for all simulation runs. We find clear disagreement between the spectral characteristics of reproduced chorus and the predictions by the linear theory. The present study clarifies that the spectra of chorus are essentially different from those predicted by the linear theory and are determined fully by nonlinear processes of wave‐particle interactions in the chorus generation region.
Upper and Middle Crustal Velocity Structure of the Colombian Andes From Ambient Noise Tomography: Investigating Subduction‐Related Magmatism in the Overriding Plate
Authors: Poveda Esteban , Julià Jordi , Schimmel Martin , Perez‐Garcia Nelson
Published: January 2018

New maps of S velocity variation for the upper and middle crust making up the northwestern most corner of South America have been developed from cross correlation of ambient seismic noise at 52 broadband stations in the region. Over 1,300 empirical Green's functions, reconstructing the Rayleigh wave portion of the seismic wavefield, were obtained after time and frequency‐domain normalization of the ambient noise recordings and stacking of 48 months of normalized data. Interstation phase and group velocity curves were then measured in the 6–38 s period range and tomographically inverted to produce maps of phase and group velocity variation in a 0.5° × 0.5° grid. Velocity‐depth profiles were developed for each node after simultaneously inverting phase and group velocity curves and combined to produce 3‐D maps of S velocity variation for the region. The S velocity models reveal a ~7 km thick sedimentary cover in the Caribbean region, the Magdalena Valley, and the Cordillera Oriental, as well as crustal thicknesses in the Pacific and Caribbean region under ~35 km, consistent with previous studies. They also display zones of slow velocity at 25–35 km depth under regions of both active and inactive volcanism, suggesting the presence of melts that carry the signature of segmented subduction into the overriding plate. A low‐velocity zone in the same depth range is imaged under the Lower Magdalena Basin in the Caribbean region, which may represent either sublithospheric melts ponding at midcrustal levels after breaching through a fractured Caribbean flat slab or fluid migration through major faults within the Caribbean crust.
Water Resource Planning Under Future Climate and Socioeconomic Uncertainty in the Cauvery River Basin in Karnataka, India
Authors: Bhave Ajay Gajanan , Conway Declan , Dessai Suraje , Stainforth David A.
Published: January 2018

Decision‐Making Under Uncertainty (DMUU) approaches have been less utilized in developing countries than developed countries for water resources contexts. High climate vulnerability and rapid socioeconomic change often characterize developing country contexts, making DMUU approaches relevant. We develop an iterative multi‐method DMUU approach, including scenario generation, coproduction with stakeholders and water resources modeling. We apply this approach to explore the robustness of adaptation options and pathways against future climate and socioeconomic uncertainties in the Cauvery River Basin in Karnataka, India. A water resources model is calibrated and validated satisfactorily using observed streamflow. Plausible future changes in Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) precipitation and water demand are used to drive simulations of water resources from 2021 to 2055. Two stakeholder‐identified decision‐critical metrics are examined: a basin‐wide metric comprising legal instream flow requirements for the downstream state of Tamil Nadu, and a local metric comprising water supply reliability to Bangalore city. In model simulations, the ability to satisfy these performance metrics without adaptation is reduced under almost all scenarios. Implementing adaptation options can partially offset the negative impacts of change. Sequencing of options according to stakeholder priorities into Adaptation Pathways affects metric satisfaction. Early focus on agricultural demand management improves the robustness of pathways but trade‐offs emerge between intrabasin and basin‐wide water availability. We demonstrate that the fine balance between water availability and demand is vulnerable to future changes and uncertainty. Despite current and long‐term planning challenges, stakeholders in developing countries may engage meaningfully in coproduction approaches for adaptation decision‐making under deep uncertainty.
Globalization and the Dilemmas of Linguistic Identity
Authors: Prior Matthew T.
Published: January 2018

The evolving challenges surrounding linguistic identity in the contemporary era of global interconnectedness and rapid transcultural flows continue to capture the attention of the TESOL profession. Though competence in English has become a valued commodity in the global order, English has also been implicated as a hegemonic and imperialistic tool that continues to exploit and colonize those on the periphery. Yet, the relationship between globalization and language is not deterministic or unidirectional. Modern multilingual and multicultural identities are characterized by hybridity and competing affiliations. Individuals reclaim and remake language as a counterpoint for resistance and a means for imagining new ways of becoming and belonging in an increasingly fragmented sociocultural world. In light of current ELT trends that advocate greater critique and decolonization of the field, educators are challenged with how to address these complex dilemmas of linguistic identity in their pedagogical and professional practices.
Enhanced Activation and Expansion of T Cells Using Mechanically Soft Elastomer Fibers
Authors: Dang Alex P. , De Leo Sarah , Bogdanowicz Danielle R. , Yuan Dennis J. , Fernandes Stacey M. , Brown Jennifer R. , Lu Helen H. , Kam Lance C.
Published: January 2018

Emerging cellular therapies require effective platforms for producing clinically relevant numbers of high‐quality cells. This report introduces a materials‐based approach to improving expansion of T cells, a compelling agent for treatment of cancer and a range of other diseases. The system consists of electrospun fibers, which present activating antibodies to CD3 and CD28. These fibers are effective in activating T cells, initiating expansion, and simplify processing of the cellular product, compared to current bead‐base platforms. In addition, reducing the mechanical rigidity of these fibers enhances expansion of mixed populations of human CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, providing eightfold greater production of cells in each round of cell growth. This platform also rescues expansion of T cells isolated from CLL patients, which often show limited responsiveness and other features resembling exhaustion. By simplifying the process of cell expansion and improving T cell expansion, the system introduced here provides a powerful tool for the development of cellular immunotherapy.
Two‐Photon‐Excited Silica and Organosilica Nanoparticles for Spatiotemporal Cancer Treatment
Authors: Croissant Jonas G. , Zink Jeffrey I. , Raehm Laurence , Durand Jean‐Olivier
Published: January 2018

Coherent two‐photon‐excited (TPE) therapy in the near‐infrared (NIR) provides safer cancer treatments than current therapies lacking spatial and temporal selectivities because it is characterized by a 3D spatial resolution of 1 µm3 and very low scattering. In this review, the principle of TPE and its significance in combination with organosilica nanoparticles (NPs) are introduced and then studies involving the design of pioneering TPE‐NIR organosilica nanomaterials are discussed for bioimaging, drug delivery, and photodynamic therapy. Organosilica nanoparticles and their rich and well‐established chemistry, tunable composition, porosity, size, and morphology provide ideal platforms for minimal side‐effect therapies via TPE‐NIR. Mesoporous silica and organosilica nanoparticles endowed with high surface areas can be functionalized to carry hydrophobic and biologically unstable two‐photon absorbers for drug delivery and diagnosis. Currently, most light‐actuated clinical therapeutic applications with NPs involve photodynamic therapy by singlet oxygen generation, but low photosensitizing efficiencies, tumor resistance, and lack of spatial resolution limit their applicability. On the contrary, higher photosensitizing yields, versatile therapies, and a unique spatial resolution are available with engineered two‐photon‐sensitive organosilica particles that selectively impact tumors while healthy tissues remain untouched. Patients suffering pathologies such as retinoblastoma, breast, and skin cancers will greatly benefit from TPE‐NIR ultrasensitive diagnosis and therapy.
Wearable Wireless Tyrosinase Bandage and Microneedle Sensors: Toward Melanoma Screening
Authors: Ciui Bianca , Martin Aida , Mishra Rupesh K. , Brunetti Barbara , Nakagawa Tatsuo , Dawkins Thomas J. , Lyu Mengjia , Cristea Cecilia , Sandulescu Robert , Wang Joseph
Published: January 2018

Wearable bendable bandage‐based sensor and a minimally invasive microneedle biosensor are described toward rapid screening of skin melanoma. These wearable electrochemical sensors are capable of detecting the presence of the tyrosinase (TYR) enzyme cancer biomarker in the presence of its catechol substrate, immobilized on the transducer surface. In the presence of the surface TYR biomarker, the immobilized catechol is rapidly converted to benzoquinone that is detected amperometrically, with a current signal proportional to the TYR level. The flexible epidermal bandage sensor relies on printing stress‐enduring inks which display good resiliency against mechanical deformations, whereas the hollow microneedle device is filled with catechol‐coated carbon paste for assessing tissue TYR levels. The bandage sensor can thus be used directly on the skin whereas microneedle device can reach melanoma tissues under the skin. Both wearable sensors are interfaced to an ultralight flexible electronic board, which transmits data wirelessly to a mobile device. The analytical performance of the resulting bandage and microneedle sensing systems are evaluated using TYR‐containing agarose phantom gel and porcine skin. The new integrated conformal portable sensing platforms hold considerable promise for decentralized melanoma screening, and can be extended to the screening of other key biomarkers in skin moles.
Self‐Calibrating Mechanochromic Fluorescent Polymers Based on Encapsulated Excimer‐Forming Dyes
Authors: Calvino Céline , Guha Anirvan , Weder Christoph , Schrettl Stephen
Published: January 2018

While mechanochemical transduction principles are omnipresent in nature, mimicking these in artificial materials is challenging. The ability to reliably detect the exposure of man‐made objects to mechanical forces is, however, of great interest for many applications, including structural health monitoring and tamper‐proof packaging. A useful concept to achieve mechanochromic responses in polymers is the integration of microcapsules, which rupture upon deformation and release a payload causing a visually detectable response. Herein, it is reported that this approach can be used to create mechanochromic fluorescent materials that show a direct and ratiometric response to mechanical deformation. This can be achieved by filling poly(urea‐formaldehyde) microcapsules with a solution of a photoluminescent aggregachromic cyano‐substituted oligo(p‐phenylene vinylene) and embedding these particles in poly(dimethylsiloxane). The application of mechanical force by way of impact, incision, or tensile deformation opens the microcapsules and releases the fluorophore in the damaged area. Due to excimer formation, the subsequent aggregation of the dye furnishes a detectable fluorescence color change. With the emission from unopened microcapsules as built‐in reference, the approach affords materials that are self‐calibrating. This new concept appears to be readily applicable to a range of polymer matrices and allows for the straightforward assessment of their structural integrity.
Tunable Nanoscale Interlayer of Graphene with Symmetrical Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Architecture for Lithium Extraction
Authors: Zhao Yan , Shi Wenhui , Van der Bruggen Bart , Gao Congjie , Shen Jiangnan
Published: January 2018

Graphene, a 2D sp2‐hybridized carbon sheet is a hot topic in the fields of materials science and chemistry. Here, a symmetrical multilayer architecture of graphene is designed by grafting of sulfonated 4,4′‐ diaminodiphenyl sulfone (SDDS) with the ample sulfonate groups and tunable interlayer spacing to exhibit the Li+ extraction from ionic mixtures with Na+, Mg2+ and Ca2+. Under the application of an electric field, the selective separation of cations can be achieved by controlling the flow channels of negatively charged ions (≈0.48 nm) during the synthesis of rGO‐SDDS‐rGO membrane. The result shows that the ion selectivity of the rGO‐SDDS‐rGO membrane is Na+ > Li+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ and the absolute separation efficiency values of Li+/Mg2+ and Li+/Ca2+ are as high as 85.32 and 80.81%, respectively.
Polystyrene recycling processes by dissolution in ethyl acetate
Authors: Cella Rafael Ferraz , Mumbach Guilherme Davi , Andrade Karina Luzia , Oliveira Patricia , Marangoni Cintia , Bolzan Ariovaldo , Bernard Samuel , Machado Ricardo Antonio Francisco
Published: January 2018

This study evaluated the thermal, morphological, chemical, and mechanical properties of virgin and recycled polystyrene. The recycling process was carried out by dissolution of polystyrene (extruded and crystal) in ethyl acetate, followed by two processes for solvent removal: vaporization by direct contact with water at 85 °C in a tubular evaporator and vaporization during the extrusion process. For the samples produced by solvent evaporation in the tubular evaporator, there was practically no degradation on polymer chain, neither reduction in glass transition temperature. For the samples produced by solvent evaporation during the extrusion, a polymer chain degradation was noted by reduction in molar weight and in glass transition temperature. The FTIR evaluation suggests that polymer oxidative degradation, in both samples, was more pronounced in the extruded sample. The removal of plasticizing additives could be evidenced by the glass transition temperature increase in the recycled samples produced in the tubular evaporator. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46208.
Twin DNA Methylation Profiling Reveals Flare‐Dependent Interferon Signature and B Cell Promoter Hypermethylation in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Ulff‐Møller Constance J. , Asmar Fazila , Liu Yi , Svendsen Anders J. , Busato Florence , Grønbæk Kirsten , Tost Jörg , Jacobsen Søren
Published: January 2018

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has limited monozygotic twin concordance, implying a role for pathogenic factors other than genetic variation, such as epigenetic changes. Using the disease‐discordant twin model, we investigated genome‐wide DNA methylation changes in sorted CD4+ T cells, monocytes, granulocytes, and B cells in twin pairs with at least 1 SLE‐affected twin.

Methods

Peripheral blood obtained from 15 SLE‐affected twin pairs (6 monozygotic and 9 dizygotic) was processed using density‐gradient centrifugation for the granulocyte fraction. CD4+ T cells, monocytes, and B cells were further isolated using magnetic beads. Genome‐wide DNA methylation was analyzed using Infinium HumanMethylation450K BeadChips. When comparing probes from SLE‐affected twins and co‐twins, differential DNA methylation was considered statistically significant when the P value was less than 0.01 and biologically relevant when the median DNA methylation difference was >7%. Findings were validated by pyrosequencing and replicated in an independent case–control sample.

Results

In paired analyses of twins discordant for SLE restricted to the gene promoter and start region, we identified 55, 327, 247, and 1,628 genes with differentially methylated CpGs in CD4+ T cells, monocytes, granulocytes, and B cells, respectively. All cell types displayed marked hypomethylation in interferon‐regulated genes, such as IFI44L, PARP9, and IFITM1, which was more pronounced in twins who experienced a disease flare within the past 2 years. In contrast to what was observed in the other cell types, differentially methylated CpGs in B cells were predominantly hypermethylated, and the most important upstream regulators included TNF and EP300.

Conclusion

Hypomethylation of interferon‐regulated genes occurs in all major cellular compartments in SLE‐affected twins. The observed B cell promoter hypermethylation is a novel finding with potential significance in SLE pathogenesis.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Aerobic Oxidation of Amines
Authors: Ray Ritwika , Hazari Arijit Singha , Lahiri Goutam Kumar , Maiti Debabrata
Published: January 2018

Amine oxidation is one of the fundamental reactions in organic synthesis as it leads to a variety of value‐added products such as oximes, nitriles, imines, and amides among many others. These products comprise the key N‐containing building blocks in the modern chemical industry, and such transformations, when achieved in the presence of molecular oxygen without using stoichiometric oxidants, are much preferred as they circumvent the production of unwanted wastes. In parallel, the versatility of ruthenium catalysts in various oxidative transformations is well‐documented. Herein, this review focuses on aerobic oxidation of amines specifically by using ruthenium catalysts and highlights the major achievements in this direction and challenges that still need to be addressed.