bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Latest Treatment Perspectives for IBD-related Arthritis - a review
Authors: Sęk Michał , Duchnevič Olgerd , Galasińska Iwona , Hajduk-Maślak Katarzyna , Szypuła Aleksandra , Michalik Beniamin , Skóra Adrianna
Published: February 2024

Introduction: IBD-related arthritis (spondyloarthropathy) is the most common extraintestinal manifestation (EIM) of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and is often considered a formidable clinical challenge. Emergence of TNFα-antagonists has revolutionised the clinical approach to management of IBD-related arthritis and remains the mainstay of the therapy. However, its use presents several limitations, underscoring the need for new treatment modalities. Recently, new agents have been approved for the management of IBD, although their influence on IBD-related arthritis has been scarcely investigated.
Aim of the Study: The aim of the study was to collect and analyse current literature regarding the efficacy of new agents used for treating IBD-related arthritis. 
Methods and Materials: Extensive research was conducted using the PubMed, ScienceDirect database and Google Scholar, with the primary focus on literature from the past 5 years. Firstly, potential novel treatment options for IBD-related arthritis were obtained. The names of the drugs were juxtaposed with terms related to “IBD-related arthritis” to gather data regarding their efficacy in said condition. Additionally, references from selected articles were included in the analysis.
Results: Emerging treatment options show promising results in achieving remission of IBD-related arthritis. However, our study revealed research gap as the current literature lacks large-scale, prospective studies that assess the efficacy of the aforementioned agents in achieving a resolution of IBD-related arthritis. Therefore, the results of our study encourage further research, with special emphasis on large-scale randomised controlled trials.
Anticancer properties of berberine - analysis of the latest reports
Authors: Rozwadowska Patrycja , Bator Piotr , Razik Michał , Ramian Jan , Rybak Jakub , Magiera Barbara , Magiera Karol , Razik Wiktor
Published: February 2024

Introduction and purpose: 
Berberine is a plant alkaloid that naturally occurs in the fruits of common barberry (Berberis vulgaris). This alkaloid has long been used in natural medicine. It exhibits a range of bioactivities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-edema, and antimicrobial actions. Through the promising therapeutic effects of berberine in metabolic syndrome, as well as its impact on carcinogenesis, this compound is beginning to play a significant role in preventive medicine. Recently, particular attention has been paid to the anticancer properties of berberine, which are based on many biochemical pathways, particularly its pro-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory action. The study aimed to review the anticancer mechanisms of berberine and summarize them about individual cancers.
 
State of knowledge: 
The article reviews the current literature on the anticancer properties of berberine for individual cancers, focusing primarily on its molecular mechanisms of action. In addition, the potential of berberine as a promising candidate forming the basis for drug production and its use in preventive medicine was analyzed.
 
Summary: 
In summary, many studies have shown that berberine exhibits anticancer activity in many types of cancers, including breast, lung, stomach, liver, colorectal, ovarian, cervical, and prostate cancers. Berberine inhibits the growth of cancer cells, limits metastases, induces apoptosis, stimulates autophagy, and enhances the effectiveness of anticancer drugs. Despite its potential as a promising candidate for drug production, there are currently no approved pure berberine preparations for the treatment of specific ailments. Research on its effectiveness and safety is still ongoing.
Fertility Preservation Strategies in Cancer Patients: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Razik Michał , Bator Piotr , Rozwadowska Patrycja , Ramian Jan , Rybak Jakub , Magiera Barbara , Magiera Karol , Razik Wiktor
Published: February 2024

Introduction and purpose. Preserving fertility is crucial for cancer patients, aligning with advancements in oncology. As survival rates improve, addressing treatment-related late effects gains importance. Many young patients, aware of therapy toxicity, consider future conception chances, impacting treatment decisions. With a trend toward delayed childbirth and a growing population facing unplanned family planning disruptions, the demand for fertility preservation is expected to rise. This paper provides a brief review of available methods for preserving fertility in cancer patients.
 
State of knowledge. Freezing semen in liquid nitrogen vapor is a standard method for preserving reproductive potential in male cancer patients. Shielding during total-body radiation limits testicular volume reduction, indicating less damage to the germinal epithelium. Hormone suppression treatments are not protective in male cancer patients. Oocyte and embryo cryopreservation are considered secure methods before anticancer treatments, with oocyte cryopreservation being preferred for post-pubertal women. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation remains an alternative method without preliminary treatment, suitable when time is insufficient for ovarian stimulation. Ovarian transposition beyond the intended radiation area, performed laparoscopically, can retain ovarian function. GnRH agonist administration before and during chemotherapy aims to minimize the likelihood of premature ovarian insufficiency.
 
Summary. Advancements in fertility preservation for cancer patients, ranging from traditional cryopreservation to innovative methods like ovarian tissue preservation, highlight a commitment to empowering individuals facing cancer diagnoses. Ongoing research expands possibilities, ensuring a diverse range of strategies that offer tangible and hopeful prospects at the intersection of cancer and reproductive health.
Appreciative Inquiry as a Research Method for Qualitative Research and Prospective Theory Building for the Age of Enlivenment
Authors: Cooperrider David L. , Godwin Lindsey N.
Published: February 2024

Qualitative research and theory building in the human sciences are among the greatest adventures and most significant vocations life can present.
Playing to Our Strengths: Using Appreciative Inquiry to Develop a Practitioner Appraisal Process
Authors: Ryder Debbie
Published: February 2024

As part of the requirements of being a teacher, practitioners are normally required by their schools or employers to take part in a process of regular performance appraisal. For many teachers and practitioners, this formalised appraisal process can feel like a ‘box-ticking’ exercise. A movement is developing towards a process that is inclusive of self-inquiry and reflection (with the outcome) resulting in goals for future professional learning.
A Seminar on Prospective Theory Building: The Life-centric Art and Collaborative Science of Appreciative Inquiry as World-making
Authors: Cooperrider David L. , Godwin Lindsey N.
Published: February 2024

This article provides a glimpse into a Ph.D. research course on theory building. The seminar is inspired by a holistic interweaving of Appreciative Inquiry and portraiture research; the method of grounded theory; and the great call of our time for future-forming generative theory. In this article we define the umbrella concept of prospective theory and visualize six core constituents for propelling this kind of theory building, while also speaking to what’s been called ‘AI’s lost minor detail’.
Appreciating Awe: Cultivating Radical Curiosity as the Fuel of Appreciative Inquiry Research
Authors: Godwin Lindsey N. , Cooperrider David L.
Published: February 2024

In this article, we explore the significance of adopting aweseeking and radical curiosity as an intentional research posture. After detailing the interconnectedness of awe and Appreciative Inquiry, we propose rekindling the art of appreciatively questioning and cultivating radical curiosity as a skill that is a needed addition in the preparation of future researchers who are able to generate the future-forming scholarship called for in the world today.
Appreciative Research from the Appreciative Paradigm: A New Research Model for the Social Sciences
Authors: Varona Federico
Published: February 2024

For over ten years, I have taught Appreciative Research as an alternative course to the quantitative and qualitative research methods programs offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels in the Communication Studies Department at San José State University in California. This essay introduces Appreciative Research as an original model of applied research in the field of social sciences and proposes a theoretical/paradigmatic and methodological framework for teaching Appreciative Research as an alternative research course for undergraduate, master, and doctoral levels at the university.
Giving Everyone Permission? Sports Journalists Explain the Miami Marlins' Hiring of Kim Ng as Major League Baseball's First Female General Manager
Authors: Bishop Ronald
Published: February 2024

Abstract: A textual analysis was conducted of coverage by sportswriters for major print, online, and broadcast outlets of the hiring in November 2020 by Major League Baseball's Miami Marlins of Kim Ng. Ng is the first woman in the four major sports to attain that position. The significance of the hiring was diminished by the tendency of sportswriters to cite those women who blazed a trail for Ng without detailing their activism or appropriately referencing its importance. Ng was not an activist—she worked hard, kept her head down, built on her encyclopedic knowledge of the game, and was a team player at every career stop. Coverage foregrounded the hope that Ng would become a trailblazer for others, that she would empower them to "use their voices and dream big while also creating more of an inclusive atmosphere" (Mackey, 2020). But that hope came without a push for transformational policy and culture change that would put an end to discrimination. Sportswriters lavished praise on Marlins President Derek Jeter for his foresight and bravery in hiring Ng. Major League Baseball officials were lauded for how far they had come. Typical signs of misogyny are nearly absent from the coverage, but so was the feminist impetus to eliminate discrimination. Ng's hiring was neither blessing nor curse; it was allowed in coverage to be operationalized by league officials to tout the still small number of women who had taken positions in baseball and to assist them in forestalling criticism of their dilatory handling of scandal.
A Quarter Century of NBC's Prime-Time Summer Olympics: A Sex-Based Analysis of the Network's Coverage
Authors: Coche Roxane , Tuggle C. A.
Published: February 2024

Abstract: The Olympics offer female athletes the opportunity to shine on the biggest stage, and media tend to cover women's sports more and better during those events. This report is a sex-based quantitative content analysis of NBC's U.S. prime-time broadcast coverage of the 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 Summer Olympic Games. It focuses on two main aspects: (1) coverage of men's and women's events and (2) the sex of sources and speakers featured. Results indicate that while NBC's coverage prominently features female athletes, men's sports were still overrepresented during the Tokyo 2020 coverage compared to American men's success in the competition, and the coverage of both the latest Summer Games in Japan and the previous six editions include hegemonic masculinity cues. Primarily, women's coverage became increasingly less diverse over time, focusing mostly on a few major sports, all deemed "socially acceptable" per stereotypical gender norms (gymnastics, track and field, beach volleyball, and swimming and diving). Meanwhile, women involved in physical-power or hard body-contact sports are almost never featured in prime time, despite their successes in competition. Regarding sources and speakers, men have almost always been seen and heard (either working for NBC or being interviewed) more often than women.
"Golden Spike": Examining Atlanta United's Communication Strategies and Brand Attributes from Launch to Kickoff
Authors: Grover Maria , Bell Travis R.
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Atlanta United FC is a soccer club in Major League Soccer (MLS) that set a league record for average home attendance—48,200 people—during its inaugural season that surpassed season records in the NBA, NHL, and MLB (Lamle, 2017; Panizo, 2017). How an organization communicates with its publics can influence people's attitudes toward it (Grunig, 1978). This research explores what Atlanta United FC did from the communication perspective of press releases to create an effective brand before the team played its first game. The study adopts Hazleton's (1992) taxonomy of public relations strategies along with Gladden and Funk's (2002) team association model (TAM) to examine what communication approach Atlanta United applied during the team's launch, specifically to consider what brand attributes were communicated to its publics. This qualitative analysis suggests how new sports organizations might communicate various brand attributes. Three emergent themes from Atlanta United's approach are suggested additions to the TAM from the successful communication process during a sports team's launch.
An Examination of MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL, and WNBA Team Social Media Statements in Response to George Floyd's Death
Authors: Schmidt Samuel H. , Frederick Evan L. , Kennedy Heather , Pegoraro Ann
Published: February 2024

Abstract: The current study examined, via critical race theory, team statements issued by the NFL, NBA, WNBA, NHL, and MLB teams in response to George Floyd's death at the hands of a White police officer. Out of 136 teams, 133 issued statements via Twitter, which were collected and assessed in a codebook. Analyses to consider the impact of league and post timing on statement quality indicated that the NHL teams had statistically significantly lower-quality statements compared to the teams in the other four leagues. There were no significant differences in statement quality among the NBA, WNBA, NFL, and MLB. There were no differences in statement quality conditional upon time of statement posting. A further textual analysis was conducted to understand the language present in team statements. The textual analysis revealed similar language among the leagues, with few noticeable differences. The overall findings reveal that organizations within the NFL, NBA, WNBA, NHL, and MLB have done little to challenge the status quo of systemic racism and violence in North America, serving as performative outrage instead of committing to real change.
Intensive Care Unit–Related Cholangiopathy-Induced Biliary Cast Syndrome Without Liver Transplantation: A Rare Entity
Authors: Vikash Fnu , Vikash Sindhu , Ho Sammy , Kotler Donald , Patel Sunny
Published: February 2024

The development of biliary cast syndrome (BCS) is very rare, mostly documented in patients with liver transplantation. The etiology of BCS is unknown; however, risk factors include post–liver transplant bile duct injury, ischemia, infection, fasting, parenteral feeding, and increased bile viscosity and gallbladder dysmotility. We present the case of a 41-year-old man who developed BCS secondary to a prolonged intensive care unit course without a liver transplant. This case highlights the importance of monitoring patients with protracted intensive care unit course and abnormal aminotransferases to recognize and timely manage cholangiopathy and BCS-related complications.
Gastrointestinal Amyloidosis as a Cause of Anemia: Rare and Rarely Considered
Authors: Sharma Neha , Baqir Syed Mujtaba , Basnet Arjun , Tiwari Kripa , Sharma Abhijat , Chokshi Tanuj , Pittman Meredith , Weindorf Benjamin , Lapin Seth
Published: February 2024

Gastrointestinal involvement in amyloidosis is reported in 3% of cases, mostly associated with multiple myeloma. An elderly man with chronic kidney disease presented to the hospital after a large melenic bowel movement. The patient was tachycardic and anemic to 3.8 g/dL on admission and was transfused blood. Endoscopy and colonoscopy were unremarkable. Subsequently, the patient had 2 more admissions for severe anemia requiring blood transfusion. Repeat esophagoduodenoscopy with capsule endoscopy were unremarkable. The patient was diagnosed with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance by hemoglobin electrophoresis, and endoscopy biopsy revealed intestinal amyloidosis in a duodenal specimen. The patient's recurrent anemia was attributed to bleeding from gastrointestinal amyloidosis, in the absence of other identifiable sources of anemia, and was managed with intravenous iron infusions.
Use of Zero-crossings Segmentation for Track Quality Assessment
Authors: Dawod Abdaljbbar , Terdik György
Published: February 2024

This study concerns track quality assessment of standard-gauge railways in the context of the Hungarian railway system. Data gathered by multipurpose track recording vehicles matched the EN 13,848 requirements. Track Quality Index (TQI) measurement systems (The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), the Netherlands’, and the Chinese TQI) are considered where three types of predetermined segment techniques: separate, moving, and Zero-crossings segmentation are employed. The importance of track segmentation in quality assessment, which affects maintenance planning, is shown by key findings. For heterogeneous data, the TQIs might be deceptive, highlighting the need for alternatives. The robustness of the Zero-crossings method makes it possible to analyze deterioration factors in great detail and in some efficient way. Longer analytical segments and smoothing of the data improved precision. Based on empirical data, we advise considering a Zero-crossings strategy for precise and efficient track-quality evaluations.  With the help of this study, track quality can be better evaluated for train systems.
Development and Content Analysis of Lubeg (Syzygium lineatum)
Authors: Baua Mary Ann
Published: February 2024

The study discusses the development and composition analysis of Lubeg Vinegar. According to the Department of Agriculture Bureau of Agricultural Research, the lubeg fruit was previously an unutilized fruit. Since the fruit is easily accessible and often wasted, the researcher employed it as the primary ingredient in vinegar production. A total of 30 individuals from Isabela State University evaluated the Lubeg Vinegar. The research study utilized Mean (M) and Standard Deviation (SD). The acceptability and marketability scores of two samples of Lubeg (Syzygium lineatum) vinegar (brown sugar and white sugar) were compared using an independent samples t-test. The sizes were calculated using partial eta squared and interpreted according to Cohen's guidelines: 0.01 indicated a small effect, 0.06 a medium effect and 0.14 a large effect. Consequently, it became evident from the research that the method for making Lubeg vinegar from lubeg (Syzygium lineatum) was highly successful and efficient. Furthermore, lubeg (Syzygium lineatum) vinegar influenced consumer acceptability and was generally well-received by tasters. However, concerning color/appearance, aroma/smell, sour/acidity and respondents' willingness to purchase, Lubeg (Syzygium lineatum) vinegar with white sugar was generally more acceptable than Lubeg vinegar with brown sugar. Moreover, the commercialization of Lubeg vinegar has yielded a profitable return on investment.
A modified CTAB method for extracting high-quality genomic DNA from aquatic plants
Authors: Valiya Thodiyil Jaseela , Edathumthazhe Kuni Sinisha , Nediyaparambu Sukumaran Pradeep
Published: February 2024

This study introduces a streamlined approach for extractinghigh-quality DNA fromaquatic plants using CTAB, catering to molecular studies. Seven aquatic plant species(Hygrophilaauriculata, Limnophilarepens, Crinum malabaricum, Lagenandraovata, Ludwigiaperuviana, Eichhorniacrassipes, and Ipomoea aquatica) spanning six orderswere subjected toDNA extraction. The method combinesmechanical lysis and chemical treatments to effectively disrupt cells, coupled with RNase treatment and phenol extraction to mitigate RNA and protein contamination. The optimizedCTAB protocol facilitatesthe extraction of high-quality genomic DNA, suitable for amplifying plant barcode genes such as ITS and rbcL, as well asmarkerslike RAPD and ISSR, thereby enhancing the efficiency and reliability of genomic studies in aquatic plants.
Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction does not limit maximal exercise capacity in healthy volunteers breathing 12% oxygen at sea level
Authors: Talbot Nick P. , Cheng Hung‐Yuan , Hanstock Helen , Smith Thomas G. , Dorrington Keith L. , Robbins Peter A.
Published: February 2024

Maximal exercise capacity is reduced at altitude or during hypoxia at sea level. It has been suggested that this might reflect increased right ventricular afterload due to hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction. We have shown previously that the pulmonary vascular sensitivity to hypoxia is enhanced by sustained isocapnic hypoxia, and inhibited by intravenous iron. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that elevated pulmonary artery pressure contributes to exercise limitation during acute hypoxia. Twelve healthy volunteers performed incremental exercise tests to exhaustion breathing 12% oxygen, before and after sustained (8‐h) isocapnic hypoxia at sea level. Intravenous iron sucrose (n = 6) or saline placebo (n = 6) was administered immediately before the sustained hypoxia. In the placebo group, there was a substantial (12.6 ± 1.5 mmHg) rise in systolic pulmonary artery pressure (SPAP) during sustained hypoxia, but no associated fall in maximal exercise capacity breathing 12% oxygen. In the iron group, the rise in SPAP during sustained hypoxia was markedly reduced (3.4 ± 1.0 mmHg). There was a small rise in maximal exercise capacity following sustained hypoxia within the iron group, but no overall effect of iron, compared with saline. These results do not support the hypothesis that elevated SPAP inhibits maximal exercise capacity during acute hypoxia in healthy volunteers.
Impact of mechanical power and positive end expiratory pressure on central vs. mixed oxygen and carbon dioxide related variables in a population of female piglets
Authors: Fioccola Antonio , Pozzi Tommaso , Fratti Isabella , Nicolardi Rosmery Valentina , Romitti Federica , Busana Mattia , Collino Francesca , Camporota Luigi , Meissner Konrad , Moerer Onnen , Gattinoni Luciano
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The use of the pulmonary artery catheter has decreased overtime; central venous blood gases are generally used in place of mixed venous samples. We want to evaluate the accuracy of oxygen and carbon dioxide related parameters from a central versus a mixed venous sample, and whether this difference is influenced by mechanical ventilation.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed 78 healthy female piglets ventilated with different mechanical power.

Results

There was a significant difference in oxygen‐derived parameters between samples taken from the central venous and mixed venous blood (SO2 = 74.6%, ScvO2 = 83%, p < 0.0001). Conversely, CO2‐related parameters were similar, with strong correlation. Ventilation with higher mechanical power and PEEP increased the difference between oxygen saturations, (Δ[ScvO2−SO2 ] = 7.22% vs. 10.0% respectively in the low and high MP groups, p = 0.020); carbon dioxide‐related parameters remained unchanged (p = 0.344).

Conclusions

The venous oxygen saturation (central or mixed) may be influenced by the effects of mechanical ventilation. Therefore, central venous data should be interpreted with more caution when using higher mechanical power. On the contrary, carbon dioxide‐derived parameters are more stable and similar between the two sampling sites, independently of mechanical power or positive end expiratory pressures.
Uso de glucómetros durante la prueba de tolerancia oral a la glucosa en niños para el diagnóstico de prediabetes y diabetes. Estudio comparativo
Authors: Fabre-Estremera Blanca , Martínez-Chávez Estéfani , Manzano Ocaña Marta , Carcavilla Urquí Atilano , Morales Sánchez María de los Ángeles , Pinilla Tejado Inmaculada , González-Casado Isabel , Losantos García Itsaso , Fernández-Calle Pilar , Soto Antonio Buño , Oliver Paloma
Published: February 2024

Objetivos

A pesar de que las guías clínicas aún no recomiendan el uso de glucómetros en el lugar de asistencia al paciente (POCT) con fines diagnósticos, la prestación analítica de estos dispositivos ha mejorado significativamente. En este contexto, evaluamos la precisión analítica y la concordancia diagnóstica de los glucómetros POCT durante la prueba de tolerancia oral a la glucosa (PTOG), para el diagnóstico de prediabetes y diabetes en un estudio comparativo.

Métodos

En este estudio prospectivo observacional, fueron reclutados pacientes pediátricos con indicación de PTOG, derivados a la Unidad de Diabetes entre diciembre de 2020 y septiembre de 2021. Durante la prueba funcional, se midió la glucemia en sangre venosa con dos glucómetros POCT (uno con conectividad y otro sin conectividad) y en el laboratorio central.

Resultados

El estudio incluyó 98 pacientes. Observamos una elevada correlación entre los glucómetros y el laboratorio (coeficiente de Pearson=0,912 para el glucómetro sin conectividad y 0,950 para el glucómetro con conectividad). El tiempo de respuesta de la PTOG disminuyó significativamente (mediana glucómetro con conectividad: 2,02 horas [rango intercuartílico: 2,00–2,07], laboratorio: 11,63 horas [6,09–25,80]), con un coste global similar. La concordancia diagnóstica entre el glucómetro con conectividad y el laboratorio fue del 71,1 % (IC 95 % 61,5–79,2). La decisión clínica hubiera sido la misma en el 92,8 % de los casos, aunque no se habría indicado tratamiento en cuatro pacientes (4,1 %).

Conclusiones

Durante las PTOG, los glucómetros POCT muestran una elevada correlación y una concordancia diagnóstica aceptable con el laboratorio, ofreciendo además el glucómetro con conectividad una reducción significativa del tiempo de respuesta, sin incrementar los costes. No obstante, dado que en algún caso podría haber un impacto clínico grave, los glucómetros POCT aún no deben ser utilizados con fines diagnósticos.
Comparison of home-made and commercial baits for trapping Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in blueberry crops
Authors: Cruz-Esteban Samuel , Rojas-Sanchez María L. , Soto-Cuellar Erika , Alavez-Rosas David , Rojas Julio C.
Published: February 2024

Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is a worldwide invasive pest. In Mexico, this species attacks various soft berries, plum, and guava. Currently, D. suzukii is monitored using traps baited with various attractants. Nevertheless, previous reports have shown that the performance of attractants may vary from one place to another. Ideally, the attractant used by growers should be as effective, long-lasting, easy to maintain and deploy, and inexpensive as possible. In this study, we compared the performance of home-made and commercial lures in capturing D. suzukii in blueberry crops in Guanajuato and Michoacán, Mexico. We also evaluated whether the capture of D. suzukii using odor-baited traps was enhanced by the incorporation of visual cues. Overall, traps baited with Z-Kinol®, fermented berries (blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry) alone or blended performed better in capturing D. suzukii flies than fermented banana, apple cider vinegar (ACV), and FLYBUSTER® Powder. The capture of flies increased by 29, 31, and 38 % when a yellow card was included in traps baited with Z-Kinol®, fermented blueberry juice, and fermented raspberry juice, respectively. The volatile compounds of fermented berry juices, identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, consisted mainly of esters, particularly ethyl acetate and isopentyl acetate. In brief, our results suggest that traps baited with fermented berries can be used for monitoring and mass trapping of D. suzukii populations in blueberry crops in Mexico.
Ultrafast Q-boosting in semiconductor metasurfaces
Authors: Yang Ziwei , Liu Mingkai , Smirnova Daria , Komar Andrei , Shcherbakov Maxim , Pertsch Thomas , Neshev Dragomir
Published: February 2024

All-optical tunability of semiconductor metasurfaces offers unique opportunities for novel time-varying effects, including frequency conversion and light trapping. However, the all-optical processes often induce optical absorption that fundamentally limits the possible dynamic increase of their quality factor (Q-boosting). Here, we propose and numerically demonstrate the concept of large Q-boosting in a single-material metasurface by dynamically reducing its structural anisotropy on a femtosecond timescale. This balance is achieved by excitation with a structured pump and takes advantage of the band-filling effect in a GaAs direct-bandgap semiconductor to eliminate the free-carrier-induced loss. We show that this approach allows a dynamic boosting of the resonance quality factor over orders of magnitude, only limited by the free-carrier relaxation processes. The proposed approach offers complete dynamic control over the resonance bandwidth and opens applications in frequency conversion and light trapping.
A global test of hybrid ancestry from genome-scale data
Authors: Haque Md Rejuan , Kubatko Laura
Published: February 2024

Methods based on the multi-species coalescent have been widely used in phylogenetic tree estimation using genome-scale DNA sequence data to understand the underlying evolutionary relationship between the sampled species. Evolutionary processes such as hybridization, which creates new species through interbreeding between two different species, necessitate inferring a species network instead of a species tree. A species tree is strictly bifurcating and thus fails to incorporate hybridization events which require an internal node of degree three. Hence, it is crucial to decide whether a tree or network analysis should be performed given a DNA sequence data set, a decision that is based on the presence of hybrid species in the sampled species. Although many methods have been proposed for hybridization detection, it is rare to find a technique that does so globally while considering a data generation mechanism that allows both hybridization and incomplete lineage sorting. In this paper, we consider hybridization and coalescence in a unified framework and propose a new test that can detect whether there are any hybrid species in a set of species of arbitrary size. Based on this global test of hybridization, one can decide whether a tree or network analysis is appropriate for a given data set.
Biosynthesis of ZnO/Ag nanocomposites heterostructure for efficient photocatalytic degradation of antibiotics and synthetic dyes
Authors: Hamza Laila , Laouini Salah Eddine , Mohammed Hamdi Ali , Meneceur Souhaila , Salmi Chaima , Alharthi Fahad , Legmairi Souheila , Abdullah Johar Amin Ahmed
Published: February 2024

This study addresses the pressing issue of environmental pollution caused by antibiotics and synthetic dyes in aquatic ecosystems, presenting a novel approach for their efficient photocatalytic degradation. Zinc oxide (ZnO)-based nanoscale photocatalysts, including ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) and ZnO/Ag nanocomposite heterostructure (NCH), were synthesized through an innovative and eco-friendly method utilizing an extract derived from discarded lemon peels as a biogenic reducing agent. The synthesized materials were extensively characterized through UV spectrophotometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results confirmed the different morphologies of ZnO NPs and ZnO/Ag NCH, with average sizes of 20 nm and 42 nm, respectively. Notably, the ZnO NPs and ZnO/Ag NCH exhibited optical bandgap energies of 3.2 eV and 2.85 eV, respectively, signifying their potential as efficient photocatalysts. Under natural sunlight irradiation, these materials demonstrated exceptional photocatalytic activity, achieving a remarkable 98.8 % degradation rate for metronidazole and 90 % for ciprofloxacin in just 12 min. Furthermore, the ZnO NPs effectively removed 84 % of Toluidine Blue and 77 % of Congo red after 120 min, while ZnO/Ag NCH enhanced degradation rates to approximately 90.5 % for Toluidine Blue and 86 % for Congo Red. This research highlights the significant physicochemical properties and novel synthesis methods employed, positioning these sustainable nanomaterials as promising solutions for mitigating environmental pollution effectively.
Three-dimensional Deformation and Damage Mechanisms in Forming of Advanced Structures in Paper
Authors:   BiMaC Innovation, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Department of Solid Mechanics, Stockholm, Sweden, Östlund Soren
Published: February 2024

There is a large potential for wood-fiber based materials such as paper and board to contribute to lightweight structures in several applications, particularly packaging. Fiber-based packaging materials have important advantages in comparison to fossil-based plastics regarding biodegradability, recyclability and renewability. Individualisation has become a crucial criterion for the use of packaging solutions and forming of advanced paperboard structure is a key technology for manufacturing of such packaging shapes. New sustainable packaging concepts are creating a need for paper materials with considerably enhanced properties. Paper and board are in manufacturing of geometrically advances structures in general subjected to complex and often little known multi-axial states of loading and deformation that are necessarily quantified by conventional measures for paper performance. Today, commercial paperboard is optimised for folding and printing, and not for applications involving forming of advanced structures. It is like-wise important to design the manufacturing process to meet the particular properties of paperboard. Manufacturing methods that are suitable for metals and plastics are inevitably not suitable for paper and board since the deformation and damage mechanisms of fibre network materials are different from metals and plastics. In this paper recent findings in the literature on 3D forming of paper and paperboard structures are reviewed. In particular, deformation and damage mechanisms involved in pertinent forming operations and how they are related to paper and board properties in order to enhance the development of new advanced paper materials and structure are analysed.
Focused Ion Beam Tomography as a Means for Characterization of CNF in a Paper Matrix
Authors:   Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering, Ottesen Vegar , Roede Erik Dobloug ,   Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering, Syverud Kristin ,   Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering; Paper and Fibre Research Institute (PFI), Gregersen Øyvind Weiby ,   Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering
Published: February 2024

A method to study Cellulose Nanofibril (CNF) distribution in three dimensions within a paper matrix-in-situ-was developed. Focused Ion Beam (FIB)/Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) tomography was used to investigate the distribution of cellulose nanofibres in thee dimensions within a paper structure. Sufficient resolution and material contrast was contained using both secondary and back-scattered electrons in volumes as large as 103 um3. Challenges and approaches to achieve this are discussed, both with respect to the microscopy technique and with respect to image processing and volume reconstruction. A range of recorded images and reconstructed 3D volumes show the technique capable of resolving CNF in a paper matrix. Results presented show CNF within the paper matrix forming capsules enclosing filler particles. These capsules are seen to only infrequently be in physical contact with the enclosed particles. Similar separation between CNF and enclosed filler particles was tested and confirmed in CNF films with 10 wt% added ground calcium carbonate.
Synchrotron Tomographic Imaging of Softwood Paper: A 4D Investigation of Deformation and Failure Mechanism
Authors:   School of Engineering, The University of British Columbia, Golkhosh F. , Sharma Y. ,   Chair of Biomedical Physics, Department of Physics and School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Martinez D. M. ,   Dept. of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of British Columbia, Tsai W. ,   Dept. of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of British Columbia; Canfor Pulp Innovation, Courtois L. ,   Manchester X-Ray Imaging Facility, University of Manchester, Eastwood D. ,   Manchester X-Ray Imaging Facility, University of Manchester, Lee P. D. ,   Manchester X-Ray Imaging Facility, University of Manchester, Phillion A. B. ,   Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering, McMaster University
Published: February 2024

Fibre pull-out and fibre fracture are the two dominant failure mechanisms of softwood paper. For the first time, 4D synchrotron X-ray tomographic imaging (three spatial directions plus time) was performed to observe these mechanism in-situ during tensile deformation of softwood paper handsheets. The experiments were conducted on three handsheets, produced from pulp that was low consistency refined at 0 k Wh/t and 100 kWh/t and wither air-dried in restraint or freeze-dried. The fibre deformation was found to be highly complex; initially being accommodated via straightening of the fibres resulting in fibre separation and then complete fibre pull-out or fibre fracture. The 3D strain fields, computed by Digital Volume Correlation, revealed increasing out-of =plane deformation in samples with decreasing inter-fibre bonding. Further, the relation between the L2 norms of the out-of-lane strain fields with displacement was computed and found to follow a second order polynomial, with an increasing slope in samples with reduced inter-fibre bonding. It was then shown that the accumulated out-of plane deformations could be used as a metric to quantify the relative contribution of inter-fibre bond breakage, and subsequently, fibre pull-out during tensile deformation of handsheets. The results demonstrate that 4D imaging provides new insights into paper deformation mechanisms.
A Micro-mechanical Modelling Study of Drying Restraint Effects on the Hygro-mechanics of Paper Sheets
Authors:   Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands, Bosco Emanuela , Peerlings Ron ,   Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands, Geers Marc ,   Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
Published: February 2024

In this contribution we show how fibre activation and micro-buckling of fibre walls may explain, quantitatively, differences in the hydro-mechanical response of paper sheets due to the presence or absence of mechanical restraint during their fabrication. To this end, both effects are incorporated in an idealised micro-mechanical model of the fibre network. The model is used to predict the response of the network to wetting-drying cycles, as a function of the degree of restraint during production. Restrained-dried networks are predicted to exhibit an irreversible hygroscopic strain upon first wetting and a different reversible hygro-expansivity coefficient, compared with free-dried networks, which match well with experimental values reported in the literature.
The Effect of Geometry Changes on the Mechanical Stiffness of Fiber-Fiber Bonds
Authors:   KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Brandberg August , Kulachenko Artem ,   KTH Royal Institute of Technology
Published: February 2024

In this work, we discuss the effect of geometry on the compliance of the fibre bond regions against normal and tangent loads. Since the fibre bonds play a key role in defining the paper strength, the compliance of the bond regions can affect the amount of elastic energy stored in the bonds and thus change not only the strength but also the stiffness of paper products under certain conditions. Using finite element simulation tools, we overcome the major difficulty of performing controlled mechanical testing of the isolated bond region and reveal the key geometrical factors affecting the compliance of the bond region. Specifically, we show that the compliance of the fiber-fiber bond is strongly governed by its geometric configuration after pressing. Among the strongest factors is the collapse of the lumen and the crossing angle. Using the range of obtained stiffness values, we demonstrated the effect the bond stiffness has on the stiffness of the network using fiber-level simulation tools. We show how the dependence of tangent bond stiffness on fiber-to-fiber angle further softens the more compliance cross-machine direction.
Paper-based Electronics and Sensors Fabricated by Using Printing Technology
Authors:   Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Enomae Toshiharu , Xu Yinchao ,   University of Tsukuba, Oktavia Evi ,   University of Tsukuba, Morii Masato ,   University of Tsukuba, Koga Hirotaka ,   The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University
Published: February 2024

Paper is seen as a potential substrate for devices such as electronics and sensor because of environmental friendliness being a dualistic material with flexibility and rigidity, and a possibility for mass production at low cost. In this study, two such applications as devices will be introduced. First, a power generator has been developed to convert sonic vibration into electric energy. Secondly, a corona discharge-treated polytetrafluoroethylene sheet, as an electret, was attached to a paperboard with a back electrode. Another paperboard with a counter electrode was mechanically vibrated to simulate a sound. During vibration, electric power was successfully generated by electrostatic induction. Insertion of nano0cellulose paper further more enhanced the output voltage. A simple, quick, sensitive and ion species-selective paper-based sensor with a quinone derivative dye ink-jet printed has been developed to detect Cu2+ ions at 2 ppm, a maximum allowed for drinking water, by colour change observation. A fluorescence spectrum of the dye provided higher resolution to permit quantitative detection of Cu2+ concentrations.
Paper-based Chemical Detecting Sensors for Surface-enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors:   Seoul National University, Oh Kyudeok , Lee Minwoo ,   Seoul National University, Youn Hye Jung ,   Seoul National University, Jeong Dae Hong ,   Seoul National University, Lee Hak Lae ,   Seoul National University
Published: February 2024

In this study, we fabricated a paper-based molecule-detecting sensor for the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technique. SERS phenomenon is based on the face that the low intensity of Raman scattering is dramatically increased when the molecules are adsorbed on novel metal surface. To improve the applicability of paper substrate as a base for SERS several trials were made. The smoothness of the filter paper was improved through a calendaring process. To prevent the spreading of the chemical solution on the aper the hydrophobicity of paper was increased by treating with an alkyl ketene dimer (AKD). Onto the smooth and hydrophobic filter paper a silver nanoparticle (AgNP) solution was applied with a simple drop and dry method, and analyte was treated in the same manner on the AgNP decorated area for SERS measurement. To improve the reproducibility of the SERS intensity, an area scanning method that used a dual axis galvanometric mirror was introduced. A 4-aminothiophenol molecule could be detected at the femtomolar level using the hydrophobic-treated filter paper. Coating of cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) made from pulp fibers reduced the surface pore sizes and increased the uniformity of the surface of the filter paper, which improved the reproducibility and sensitivity of the molecule-detecting sensor. The use of a high magnification objective lens for increased SERS intensity allowed for the detection of a strong SERS signal, and the application of a CNF coating to the filter paper improved the reproducibility. Pesticides were detected using the paper-based substrate as SERS substrate.
Toma de decisiones en la educación: el llamado a la acción de la evidencia
Authors: Escobar Vilá Andrea , Sánchez Diego , Escandón Juan Camilo , Rios Belky
Published: February 2024

El sector educativo en Colombia cuenta con grandes retos diferenciales hacia el futuro relacionados con la garantía del acceso a la educación de calidad, así como en la preservación de trayectorias armónicas y completas. Las administraciones locales y regionales del período 2024-2027 no solo deben considerar el legado de las gestiones salientes sino también la evidencia sobre el estado del sistema en los territorios para comprender sus necesidades y en la movilización de los indicadores educativos. El país cuenta con diferentes herramientas que contribuyen a la toma de decisiones en educación, así como a fortalecer el diseño y la efectividad de las políticas públicas a través de rutas concretas para la transformación del sistema, las cuales se basan en experiencias de éxito y fracaso, así como en los análisis rigurosos derivados del monitoreo continuo que de este han hecho los observatorios y centros de pensamiento.
Hacia un nuevo lugar de enunciación: aportes intersubjetivos sobre la calidad de la educación en norte de Santander. Una perspectiva desde la teoría fundamentada
Authors: Hernández Albarracín Juan Diego , Ramírez Lindarte María Daniela , Bravo Valero Antonio José
Published: February 2024

El presente estudio, hecho en el Departamento de Norte de Santander, en Colombia, tenía como objetivo establecer el concepto de calidad de la educación mediante el método de teoría fundamentada. Se implementaron talleres participativos con diversos actores del ecosistema educativo y se aplicaron técnicas de análisis de contenido. El resultado fue un concepto de calidad de la educación basado en seis ejes axiológicos: integración compleja de dimensiones, proceso dialógico, educación como derecho, gestión socioemocional, inclusión de la diversidad y lenguaje inclusivo. Estos ejes están estimulados por los valores del sistema educativo y las necesidades de la sociedad en torno a él. Este concepto no solo redefine la calidad de la educación desde una perspectiva territorial delineando la ruta para la configuración de indicadores de medición, sino que también demuestra la importancia del proceso dialógico en la construcción de elementos ontológicos para la calidad de la educación, que deben ser comprendidos y aplicados por todos los actores del sistema educativo.
Análisis crítico de la formación en competencias ciudadanas en Colombia: ¿discurso emancipador o ficción hegemónica?
Authors: Franco Quinchía Sisney , Gallo Gómez Juan Camilo
Published: February 2024

Este trabajo analiza el programa de formación en competencias ciudadanas propuesto por el Ministerio de Educación Nacional (MEN). El objetivo es determinar si sus fundamentos normativos están informados por un interés emancipador que prepare a los jóvenes para cuestionar críticamente los desafíos que trae el neoliberalismo. Para ello, se analizan diferentes documentos publicados por el MEN y el Instituto Colombiano para la Evaluación de la Calidad de la Educación (ICFES) entre los años 2002 y 2021, teniendo como marco de referencia la crítica de Wendy Brown al neoliberalismo y la categoría de currículo emancipador de Shirley Grundy. A partir de una perspectiva de reconstrucción crítica, este artículo plantea que este programa de formación carece del potencial para alcanzar la transformación social que dice buscar, pues concibe la ciudadanía y la democracia como asuntos abstractos que competen a los individuos y no cuestiona las estructuras hegemónicas de poder que limitan su ejercicio activo.