bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning prediction of malaria vaccine efficacy based on antibody profiles
Authors: Wistuba-Hamprecht Jacqueline , Reuter Bernhard , Fendel Rolf , Hoffman Stephen L. , Campo Joseph J. , Felgner Philip L. , Kremsner Peter G. , Mordmüller Benjamin , Pfeifer Nico
Published: June 2024

Immunization through repeated direct venous inoculation of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) sporozoites (PfSPZ) under chloroquine chemoprophylaxis, using the PfSPZ Chemoprophylaxis Vaccine (PfSPZ-CVac), induces high-level protection against controlled human malaria infection (CHMI). Humoral and cellular immunity contribute to vaccine efficacy but only limited information about the implicated Pf-specific antigens is available. Here, we examined Pf-specific antibody profiles, measured by protein arrays representing the full Pf proteome, of 40 placebo- and PfSPZ-immunized malaria-naïve volunteers from an earlier published PfSPZ-CVac dose-escalation trial. For this purpose, we both utilized and adapted supervised machine learning methods to identify predictive antibody profiles at two different time points: after immunization and before CHMI. We developed an adapted multitask support vector machine (SVM) approach and compared it to standard methods, i.e. single-task SVM, regularized logistic regression and random forests. Our results show, that the multitask SVM approach improved the classification performance to discriminate the protection status based on the underlying antibody-profiles while combining time- and dose-dependent data in the prediction model. Additionally, we developed the new fEature diStance exPlainabilitY (ESPY) method to quantify the impact of single antigens on the non-linear multitask SVM model and make it more interpretable. In conclusion, our multitask SVM model outperforms the studied standard approaches in regard of classification performance. Moreover, with our new explanation method ESPY, we were able to interpret the impact of Pf-specific antigen antibody responses that predict sterile protective immunity against CHMI after immunization. The identified Pf-specific antigens may contribute to a better understanding of immunity against human malaria and may foster vaccine development.
Y chromosome shredding in Anopheles gambiae: Insight into the cellular dynamics of a novel synthetic sex ratio distorter
Authors: Vitale Matteo , Kranjc Nace , Leigh Jessica , Kyrou Kyrous , Courty Thomas , Marston Louise , Grilli Silvia , Crisanti Andrea , Bernardini Federica
Published: June 2024

Despite efforts to explore the genome of the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae, the Y chromosome of this species remains enigmatic. The large number of repetitive and heterochromatic DNA sequences makes the Y chromosome exceptionally difficult to fully assemble, hampering the progress of gene editing techniques and functional studies for this chromosome. In this study, we made use of a bioinformatic platform to identify Y-specific repetitive DNA sequences that served as a target site for a CRISPR/Cas9 system. The activity of Cas9 in the reproductive organs of males caused damage to Y-bearing sperm without affecting their fertility, leading to a strong female bias in the progeny. Cytological investigation allowed us to identify meiotic defects and investigate sperm selection in this new synthetic sex ratio distorter system. In addition, alternative promoters enable us to target the Y chromosome in specific tissues and developmental stages of male mosquitoes, enabling studies that shed light on the role of this chromosome in male gametogenesis. This work paves the way for further insight into the poorly characterised Y chromosome of Anopheles gambiae. Moreover, the sex distorter strain we have generated promises to be a valuable tool for the advancement of studies in the field of developmental biology, with the potential to support the progress of genetic strategies aimed at controlling malaria mosquitoes and other pest species.
Distinct expression patterns of Hedgehog signaling components in mouse gustatory system during postnatal tongue development and adult homeostasis
Authors: Kumari Archana , Franks Nicole E. , Li Libo , Audu Gabrielle , Liskowicz Sarah , Johnson John D. , Mistretta Charlotte M. , Allen Benjamin L.
Published: June 2024

The Hedgehog (HH) pathway regulates embryonic development of anterior tongue taste fungiform papilla (FP) and the posterior circumvallate (CVP) and foliate (FOP) taste papillae. HH signaling also mediates taste organ maintenance and regeneration in adults. However, there are knowledge gaps in HH pathway component expression during postnatal taste organ differentiation and maturation. Importantly, the HH transcriptional effectors GLI1, GLI2 and GLI3 have not been investigated in early postnatal stages; the HH receptors PTCH1, GAS1, CDON and HHIP, required to either drive HH pathway activation or antagonism, also remain unexplored. Using lacZ reporter mouse models, we mapped expression of the HH ligand SHH, HH receptors, and GLI transcription factors in FP, CVP and FOP in early and late postnatal and adult stages. In adults we also studied the soft palate, and the geniculate and trigeminal ganglia, which extend afferent fibers to the anterior tongue. Shh and Gas1 are the only components that were consistently expressed within taste buds of all three papillae and the soft palate. In the first postnatal week, we observed broad expression of HH signaling components in FP and adjacent, non-taste filiform (FILIF) papillae in epithelium or stroma and tongue muscles. Notably, we observed elimination of Gli1 in FILIF and Gas1 in muscles, and downregulation of Ptch1 in lingual epithelium and of Cdon, Gas1 and Hhip in stroma from late postnatal stages. Further, HH receptor expression patterns in CVP and FOP epithelium differed from anterior FP. Among all the components, only known positive regulators of HH signaling, SHH, Ptch1, Gli1 and Gli2, were expressed in the ganglia. Our studies emphasize differential regulation of HH signaling in distinct postnatal developmental periods and in anterior versus posterior taste organs, and lay the foundation for functional studies to understand the roles of numerous HH signaling components in postnatal tongue development.
Development of an epilepsy self-management mobile health app framework: Content validity study results
Authors: Alzamanan Mohsen Zaied , Lim Kheng-Seang , Ismail Maizatul Akmar , Ghani Norjihan Abdul
Published: June 2024

Background

Mobile health (mHealth) applications (apps) show promise in supporting epilepsy self-management (eSM). To delve deeper into this potential, we conducted a systematic review of epilepsy mHealth apps available on both iOS and Android platforms, examining articles related to eSM. This review allowed us to identify important domains related to eSM. Furthermore, based on the findings, we developed an epilepsy mHealth app framework that aims to improve self-management for the local population. This study aims to assess the practicality and usability of the proposed mHealth app framework designed to improve eSM. We will conduct an expert panel review to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of the framework.

Material and methods

Content validity was assessed by an expert panel comprising epileptologists and pharmacists. The validation process involved scoring the items within each domain of the framework to evaluate their practicality and usability (quantitative component). In addition, a panel discussion was conducted to further explore and discuss the qualitative aspects of the items.

Results

A total of 4 domains with 15 items were highly rated for their practicality and usefulness in eSM.

Conclusions

The locally validated framework will be useful for developing eSM mobile apps. Seizure Tracking, Medication Adherence, Treatment Management, and Healthcare Communication emerged as the most crucial domains for enhancing eSM.
Unveiling the adoption of metaverse technology in Bangkok metropolitan areas: A UTAUT2 perspective with social media marketing and consumer engagement
Authors: Sritong Chaloempon , Sawangproh Weerachon , Teangsompong Teerapong
Published: June 2024

As the metaverse emerges as a transformative digital realm, its adoption and integration into various aspects of society are subjects of increasing scholarly and practical interest. This research investigated the factors influencing the intention to use metaverse technology (IU) in Bangkok metropolitan areas, with a particular focus on the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) framework, alongside the role of social media marketing (SMM) and consumer engagement (CE). To verify behavioral intention, gender, age, and experience are proposed as moderating factors affecting the constructs on individuals’ behavioral intention of metaverse technology usage. The study collected data from 403 Thai internet users living in Bangkok and its surrounding areas using an online questionnaire. Subsequently, the PLS-SEM method was employed to validate the research model’s robustness and reliability. Structural model analysis revealed significant relationships among constructs, highlighting SMM’s direct influence on UTAUT2 (β = 0.787) and CE (β = 0.211). Serial mediation analyzes demonstrated a fully mediating role of SMM influencing UI through CE (β = 0.572) and UTAUT2 (β = 0.306). Moderation analyzes revealed the association between SMM and IU, mediated through UTAUT2 and CE, is moderated by age and experience. Additionally, the integration of PLS-SEM and artificial neural network (ANN) models underscored the accuracy and predictive power of the proposed framework. The findings of this study not only contribute to academic literature but also offer practical implications for marketers aiming to navigate the metaverse landscape effectively. They emphasize the pivotal role of UTAUT2 constructs and the subtle interplay between SMM, CE, and IU in shaping successful marketing strategies.
Asymmetry in kinematics of dominant/nondominant lower limbs in central and lateral positioned college and sub-elite soccer players
Authors: Beron-Vera Francisco , Lemus Sergio A. , Mahmoud Ahmed O. , Beron-Vera Pedro , Ezzy Alexander , Chen Cheng-Bang , Mann Bryan J. , Travascio Francesco
Published: June 2024

Change of direction, stops, and pivots are among the most common non-contact movements associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in soccer. By observing these dynamic movements, clinicians recognize abnormal kinematic patterns that contribute to ACL tears such as increased knee valgus or reduced knee flexion. Different motions and physical demands are observed across playing positions, which may result in varied lower limb kinematic patterns. In the present study, 28 college and sub-elite soccer players performed four dynamic motions (change of direction with and without ball, header, and instep kick) with the goal of examining the effect of on-field positioning, leg dominance, and gender in lower body kinematics. Motion capture software monitored joint angles in the knee, hip, and ankle. A three-way ANOVA showed significant differences in each category. Remarkably, centrally positioned players displayed significantly greater knee adduction (5° difference, p = 0.013), hip flexion (9° difference, p = 0.034), hip adduction (7° difference, p = 0.016), and dorsiflexion (12° difference, p = 0.022) when performing the instep kick in comparison to their laterally positioned counterparts. These findings suggest that central players tend to exhibit a greater range of motion when performing an instep kicking task compared to laterally positioned players. At a competitive level, this discrepancy could potentially lead to differences in lower limb muscle development among on-field positions. Accordingly, it is suggested to implement position-specific prevention programs to address these asymmetries in lower limb kinematics, which can help mitigate dangerous kinematic patterns and consequently reduce the risk of ACL injury in soccer players.
Group living in highland tuco-tucos (Ctenomys opimus) persists despite a catastrophic decline in population density
Authors: Lacey Eileen A. , O’Brien Shannon L. , Cuello Pablo A. , Tammone Mauro N.
Published: June 2024

Identifying the factors that favor group living is central to studies of animal social behavior. One demographic parameter that is expected to substantially shape spatial and social relationships is population density. Specifically, high population densities may favor group living by constraining opportunities to live alone. In contrast, low densities may allow individuals to spread out within the habitat, leading to a reduction in the prevalence or size of social groups. Abrupt changes in density following natural catastrophic events provide important opportunities to evaluate the effects of population density on patterns of spatial and social organization. As part of long-term studies of the behavioral ecology of a population of highland tuco-tucos (Ctenomys opimus) at Monumento Natural Laguna de los Pozuelos, Jujuy Province, Argentina, we monitored the demographic and behavioral consequences of a flood that inundated our study site during December 2012. Unlike most species of Ctenomys studied to date, highland tuco-tucos are group living, meaning that multiple adults share burrow systems and nest sites. Despite a post-flood reduction in population density of ~75%, animals present on the study site during the 2013 breeding season continued to live in multi-adult social units (groups). No differences between pre- and post-flood home range sizes were detected and although between-unit spatial overlap was reduced in 2013, overlap within social units did not differ from that in pre-flood years. Animals assigned to the same social unit in 2013 had not lived together during 2012, indicating that post-flood groups were not simply the remnants of those present prior to the flood. Collectively, these findings indicate that group living in highland tuco-tucos is not driven by the density of conspecifics in the habitat. In addition to enhancing understanding of the adaptive bases for group living in Ctenomys, our analyses underscore the power of catastrophic events to generate insights into fundamental aspects of social behavior.
Televisión de proximidad y audiencias: tensiones en el territorio mediático
Authors: Rodríguez Malebrán Carolina , Mohammadi Leila , Andrada Sola Pablo
Published: June 2024

Objetivo: Las audiencias locales que se sitúan fuera de las capitales y de las grandes urbes deben conformarse con la información y contenidos televisivos nacionales, perdiendo la conexión con sus territorios debido al marcado centralismo de los medios capitalinos. Este artículo caracteriza las tensiones de las audiencias locales del norte de Chile en relación con su televisión local, también denominada de proximidad. Materiales y métodos: La metodología es cualitativa, realizándose grupos focales con las audiencias de seis comunas de la región de Coquimbo que tuviesen televisoras locales operativas y que declarasen ver periódicamente medios locales. Resultados: Entre los hallazgos se destaca el interés y el requerimiento de la ciudadanía por las noticias locales en un claro sentido de proximidad y cercanía con su territorio, detectando además otras demandas sociales, políticas, culturales y educativas de las audiencias que podrían ser canalizadas por las televisoras locales. Se evidencia un distanciamiento y crítica hacia contenidos sensacionalistas de la televisión nacional, siendo el centralismo informativo una de las razones para la poca empatía hacia estos medios de comunicación. A juicio de los participantes, las tensiones entre lo local y lo capitalino no solo se aprecian a nivel país, sino también entre capitales regionales, provincias y comunas, siguiendo la división político-administrativa de Chile. Conclusiones: Se concluye que existe una marcada preferencia por el contenido de proximidad, lo que se explica en parte por el alejamiento y crítica que se declara hacia los medios de cobertura nacional. Se plantean como tensiones la falta de espacios de comunicación y promoción del diálogo social que les permita a las audiencias ser escuchadas por sus actores políticos locales y regionales, desaprovechando el interés de la televidencia local por contenidos de proximidad que les permitan crecer, desarrollarse y lograr una mayor participación ciudadana en el ecosistema medial chileno.
In Care of the Family. Social welfare in the Polish lands from 19th to 21st century. Historical dictionary [W trosce o rodzinę. Pomoc społeczna na ziemiach polskich od XIX do XXI wieku. Słownik historyczny] as a project carried out under the National Prog
Authors: Kinal Jarosław
Published: June 2024

A team of researchers led by Prof. Dr. Paweł Grata of the University of Rzeszów has received the funding necessary to carry out the project “In Care of the Family: Social assistance in the Polish lands from the 19th to the 21st century. Historical dictionary” under the National Program for the Development of the Humanities. The project will be carried out from 2024 to 2028. The amount of funding amounted to more than one million seven hundred thousand zlotys.
AVRUPA BİRLİĞİ ADAY ÜLKELERİNE YAPILAN DOĞRUDAN YABANCI YATIRIMLARI ÜZERİNE TAHMİN TEKNİKLERİ KARŞILAŞTIRMASI
Authors: İnel Mehmet
Published: June 2024

Globalleşen dünyada ülkelere yapılan doğrudan yatırımların önemi her geçen gün artmaktadır. Özellikle Avrupa Birliği aday ülkelerinin doğrudan yabancı yatırımlarının geleceğini belirlemek amacıyla tahmin tekniklerinin kullanımı gerekmektedir. Düşük sayıda örnek büyüklüğüne sahip durumda tahmin tekniklerini karşılaştırmayı amaçlayan, en uygun tahmin tekniğinin ne olduğu konusunda bir incelemenin yapılacağı bu çalışmada her bir aday ülkelerin yabancı yatırım değerleri tahmin edilecektir. Mevcut durumda uygun olan tahmin tekniği ve tahmin yöntemleri ile ilgili gelişim alanları tartışılacaktır.
Effect of ex situ, eco-friendly ZnONPs incorporating green synthesised Moringa oleifera leaf extract in enhancing biochemical and molecular aspects of Vicia faba L. under salt stress
Authors: Alhudhaibi Abdulrahman M. , Ragab Sherif M. , Sharaf Mohamed , Turoop Losenge , Runo Steven , Nyanjom Steven , Haouala Faouzi , Hossain ABM Sharif , Alharbi Basmah M. , Elkelish Amr
Published: June 2024

Nevertheless, the growing salt stress in arable areas poses a significant threat to agricultural production. The current study utilised zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) using an extract obtained from the leaves of Moringa oleifera (MOLe). The purpose was to reduce the detrimental effect of salinity on the Vicia faba L. (VF) cultivar (Nubaria 3). The biochemical and molecular characteristics of plants grown in saline settings were assessed 60 days after planting. The expression levels of plant defence genes polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POX) in VF leaves were analysed at different time points. The synthesised NPs improve osmotic protection in plants under salt stress by elevated levels of pigments involved in photosynthesis. In addition, there was a significant increase in the levels of biochemical parameters, such as total phenol, proline, and antioxidant enzyme activities. In addition, the use of MOLe and MOLe@ZnONPs on the plants resulted in an increase in ion content and a considerable rise in the expression of Vf POX and Vf PPO genes when exposed to salt conditions. The findings suggest that the use of MOLe and MOLe@ZnONPs was more efficient in aiding the plant to recover from the negative impact of salt stress.
Correlation between fat-soluble vitamin levels and inflammatory factors in paediatric community-acquired pneumonia: A prospective study
Authors: Liao Jianyuan , Zhang Lifang , Chen Gangxin , Luo Yuxing
Published: June 2024

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common respiratory disease in children. This prospective cohort study of 110 children with CAP and 100 healthy children investigated the relationship between the levels of vitamin A, D and E and inflammatory markers, such as tumour necrosis factor (TNF-a), interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-10 (IL-10), neutrophils (NE) and C-reactive protein (CRP), in CAP. The haemoglobin, leukocyte concentration, NE, monocytes and CRP concentration in the CAP group showed significant differences (P < 0.05). The levels of vitamin A, D and E in the CAP group were lower than those in the control group, while the levels of TNF-a and IL-1 were higher than in the control group; the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The IL-10 levels showed no significant differences (P > 0.05). Pearson analysis revealed that the vitamin A, D and E levels were all correlated with the TNF-a, IL-10 and CRP levels (P < 0.05). The vitamin A, D and E levels of the CAP children were lower than those of the healthy children. Thus, the content of fat-soluble vitamins is correlated with the secretion of TNF-a and IL-10. The research provides a new direction for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of CAP.
Understanding factors affecting rice purchasing decisions in Indonesia: Does rice brand matter?
Authors: Antriyandarti Ernoiz , Melati Nimas Suci Kusuma , Maulana Rifqi Aji
Published: June 2024

The rice sector is crucial to the Indonesian national economy. One of the staples in Indonesian society is rice. Many factors influence consumers’ purchase decisions. Rice brands can influence the psychological condition of the community, which raises the assumption that well-known brands of rice are in good condition and suitable for the community’s needs. This study aims to determine factors affecting rice purchasing decisions in Indonesia, particularly elaborating on one of the factors, which is the rice brand in the pandemic conditions. An online questionnaire was completed by 1,047 respondents who were rice consumers in Indonesia, and logistic regression was used to analyze the data. The results show that factors that influence rice purchasing decisions in Indonesia are age, household income, homogeneity of rice grains, and knowledge about imported rice. In contrast, the price of rice, rice brands, number of family members, and gender do not affect consumers’ rice purchase decisions. The rice brand does not affect rice purchasing decisions because, during a pandemic, economic factors such as job loss or financial strain may also influence purchasing decisions, leading consumers to prioritize cost-effective options rather than specific brands. This research helps rice producers or traders understand customers’ preferences and provides knowledge that is useful for meeting customer demand.
Information technology adoption in Indonesia’s small-scale dairy farms
Authors: Indriasari Sofiyanti , Sensuse Dana Indra , Resti Yuni
Published: June 2024

The use of modern digital technologies contributes to small-scale dairy farmers enhancing their business processes, increasing productivity, and addressing challenges related to sustainability. Small-scale dairy farmers are the ones most left behind in the process of implementing information technology. Therefore, there is a need to implement information technology that pays attention to the beneficial aspects seen from the aspect of small-scale farmers. The level of information technology application and human resource readiness can be measured as a basis for formulating strategies for implementing information technology. This research aims to assess the factors that affect information technology adoption among small-scale dairy farmers in Indonesia. The factors that influence the level of adoption of new information technology for small-scale dairy farmers were identified by literature studies, surveys, data analysis carried out using the Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling approach, and patterns related to aspects of technology application for small-scale dairy farmers. The findings in this research show that the factors that influence information technology adoption for small-scale dairy farmers consist of Digital Skill, Supporting, Perceived Ease of Use, Perceived Usefulness, Attitude Toward Use, and Behavioral Intention to Use. This research identified the pattern that the more complete the recording habits, the higher the level of farmer adoption of the use of new information technology. Apart from that, farmers with moderate incomes show a higher readiness to embrace technology, possibly driven by their aspiration to advance their businesses. Contrastingly, higher-income farmers exhibit less enthusiasm, potentially due to contentment with their current status and apprehension towards new risks. By offering a nuanced analysis of these factors, this study contributes significantly to the literature on agricultural information technology adoption, particularly within the context of small-scale dairy farming. It presents a novel understanding of the barriers and enablers to technology adoption, advocating for more personalized and contextually relevant support strategies. Furthermore, this research provides valuable insights for policymakers, extension agents, and technology developers on designing and implementing information technology adoption strategies that are not only technically viable but also socially and culturally acceptable.
Co-option of Technology
Authors: Rudnik Alesia
Published: June 2024

In the summer of 2020, the Belarusian regime experienced an unprecedented challenge to its power. Large-scale demonstrations erupted across the whole country as a response to a rigged election and police violence against protest participants. Social media and messaging platform Telegram assisted in maintaining and coordinating the protests and played a significant role in the mass mobilization. The Belarusian regime predictably reacted with repression against protest participants, as well as censorship of media and digital platforms. At the same time, in a reaction against the protests and the activation of digital platforms, the Belarusian regime expanded its repertoire by co-opting technology. This included utilizing a sophisticated system to shut down the Internet, developing a network of pro-governmental Telegram channels, spreading false information about the opposition leaders, and intensifying control over the Internet via legal regulations. This article aims to explore the digital repression and legitimation claims of the Belarusian regime in the aftermath of the 2020 post-electoral protests. I argue that, alongside the growing incorporation of social media and digital platforms into the protest movement, the Belarusian regime employed an advanced authoritarian toolkit and supplemented “negative control” with proactive strategies of legitimation. The article seeks to contribute to a broader understanding of how post-Soviet autocracies incorporate technology to make digital legitimacy claims and reinforce political repression.
Critical Witnessing in Teacher Education Research
Authors: Bhansari Rachel Snyder , Gonzales Grace Cornell , Venegas-Weber Patricia
Published: June 2024

Critical feminist methodologies shift the stance of the researcher, prioritizing collaboration, community, and attention to power. Building on the concept of critical witnessing, this article forwards a methodology of collaborative self-study through the reflexive use of poetry. We present three poems that highlight significant moments in our work as critical teacher educators. As white and Latinx multilingual teacher educators, we elucidate the impacts of our positionalities as a means of practicing critical witnessing in community. We suggest this as one means through which teacher educators can move toward decolonizing stances in teaching and research.
Epidemiology of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin in recent-onset symptomatic thyroid eye disease
Authors: Lai Kenneth Ka Hei , Aljufairi Fatema Mohamed Ali Abdulla , Sebastian Jake Uy , Wei Yingying , Jia Ruofan , Chan Karen Kar Wun , Au Elaine Yuen Ling , Lee Alan Chun Hong , Ng Chiu Ming , Yuen Hunter Kwok Lai , Yip Wilson Wai Kuen , Young Alvin Lerrmann , Cheng George Pak Man , Tham Clement Chee Yung , Pang Chi Pui , Chong Kelvin Kam Lung
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to report correlations between thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) and both clinical and radiological parameters in recent-onset symptomatic thyroid eye disease (TED) patients.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of TED patients managed at the Chinese University of Hong Kong from January 2014 to May 2022. Serum TSI levels were determined with the functional assay. Outcomes included the Clinical Activity Score (CAS), marginal reflex distance1 (MRD1), extraocular muscle motility restriction (EOMy), exophthalmos, and diplopia. The radiological assessment included cross-sectional areas and signal of extraocular muscles on STIR-sequence MRI.

Results

A total of 255 (197 female) treatment-naive patients, with an average onset age of 50 ± 14 years (mean ± s.d.), were included. Elevated pre-treatment TSI level was observed in 223 (88%) patients. There was a weak positive correlation between TSI and CAS (r = 0.28, P = 0.000031), MRD1 (r = 0.17, P = 0.0080), and the size of the levator palpebrae superioris/superior rectus complex (r = 0.25, P = 0.018). No significant correlation existed between TSI and STIR signals. The AUC and optimal cut-off value for clinical active TED were 0.67 (95% CI: 0.60–0.75) and 284% (specificity: 50%, sensitivity: 85%). In total, 64 patients received intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) during the study interval, and they had a higher baseline TSI level than those who did not have IVMP (P = 0.000044). Serial post-IVMP TSI among the 62 patients showed a significant reduction compared to the baseline level (P < 0.001). Both the baseline and post-IVMP TSI levels, and percentages of TSI changes were comparable between patients who responded and did not respond to the first course of IVMP.

Conclusion

TSI can be a serum biomarker for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response of TED. Further validation should be warranted.
SELEÇÃO DE DIRETORES ESCOLARES EM PETRÓPOLIS (RJ): DISPUTAS NA CENA E NO TEXTO POLÍTICO
Authors: ARAUJO FELIPE , AMARAL DANIELA PATTI DO
Published: June 2024

RESUMO: O presente texto apresenta a agenda política e da produção de texto que engendrou a aprovação do Plano Municipal de Educação de Petrópolis (RJ), buscando identificar o lugar da gestão democrática da escola pública no município presente no texto político. Considerando o pressuposto de que a participação da comunidade é condição imprescindível para o estabelecimento da gestão democrática, apesar de a seleção de diretor escolar ocorrer por meio da eleição no município, identificou-se que a eleição tem caráter de consulta à comunidade, como também, nas escolas conveniadas o processo não é realizado. Através da análise documental de natureza exploratória, percebeu-se que, nos textos políticos do campo educacional municipal, os processos democráticos se encontram fragilizados e sob constante pressões por parte da Igreja Católica. Destaca-se o conflito normativo e a falta de clareza entre as diretrizes educacionais no município como entrave no estabelecimento de uma escola democrática, que tenha formação política para o exercício de uma cidadania participativa decisória.
Inorganic contamination in roadkill birds in Northeast Brazil
Authors: Bomfim Douglas Aran dos Santos , Santana Jociel Klleyton Santos , Marques Maria Nogueira , de Melo Cláudia Moura , Madi Rubens Riscala
Published: June 2024

Abstract Wildlife roadkill surveys in Brazil often focus on birds, as they are one of the main groups affected by road accidents. In addition roadkill, anthropogenic litter also contributes to a significant number of bird fatalities every year. The present study aimed to investigate the stomach contents and possible contamination by inorganic material of birds killed on a federal highway that crosses the Serra de Itabaiana National Park in the state of Sergipe, Brazil. Monitoring and data collection were carried out from January to June 2022, with a motorcycle at an average speed of 60 km/h. The collected animals were transported to the Institute of Technology and Research, located at the Tiradentes University, Sergipe, Brazil, and a plastic material was identified. The plastic material found was subjected to Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), which showed a similar wavenumber to a polymer in the polypropylene chain, very common in plastic packaging. The presence of plastics and metals in the intestinal contents of Caracara plancus and Crotophaga ani is noteworthy, as they have a greater tendency to ingest plastics due to their generalist diet. Plastic contamination in Progne chalybea and Nyctidromus albicollis probably occurred through bioaccumulation, from the consumption of insects contaminated by microplastics.
Gas exchanges and chlorophyll fluorescence of soybean genotypes subjected to flooding stress
Authors: Silva Silvana F. da , Martins Marcio de O. , Chagas Paulo V. A. das , Santos Gisele L. dos , Coêlho Ester dos S. , Barros Júnior Aurélio P. , Silveira Lindomar M. da , Ribeiro João E. da S.
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to evaluate the ecophysiological responses of soybean subjected to soil flooding. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with five replications. A 3 x 3 factorial scheme was used, consisting of three soybean genotypes (tolerant, sensitive and a commercial cultivar), and three water conditions (control treatment - soil was maintained at 70% of field capacity throughout the plant cycle; soil flooding for 10 days in the vegetative period + 10 days in the reproductive period; and soil flooding for 10 days only in the reproductive period). Three evaluations were carried out regarding chlorophyll fluorescence and gas exchange: after flooding in the vegetative period (V2); after flooding in the reproductive period (R2), and ten days after draining the water. Tolerant genotypes and sensitive genotypes experienced reductions in photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance when subjected to water stress in the reproductive stage. However, under stress in the vegetative stage, only the tolerant and sensitive genotypes reduced the actual quantum efficiency and electron transport rate, and at the moment of flooding in the reproductive stage, all had changes and did not show recovery for these variables. As for non-photochemical quenching, only the sensitive genotype increased the rate, under stress in stages V2/R2 and R2. The local commercial cultivar is more adapted to soil flooding conditions, as it shows better physiological responses to adapt to soil flooding conditions.
Toxicogenetic studies of an antileishmania nanomedicine based on Ocotea fasciculata, a plant of the Brazilian flora
Authors: Squarisi Iara Silva , Freitas Karoline Soares de , Nicolella Heloiza Diniz , Ozelin Saulo Duarte , Barbosa-Filho José Maria , Marquele-Oliveira Franciane , Berretta Andresa Aparecida , Tavares Denise Crispim
Published: June 2024

Abstract The lignoid fraction (LF) of Ocotea fasciculata, which is rich in yangambin and its epimer, epi-yangambin, showed promising activity against Leishmania sp. Subsequently, LF was incorporated into a solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) in order to increase its pharmacological efficacy and decrease toxicity. In this regard, the present study was carried out to evaluate the cytotoxic and toxicogenetic potential of LF and LF-SLN in mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo. The cytotoxic activity was evaluated in a non-tumor human cell line (GM07492A) and the toxicogenetic potential was assessed in vitro in a Chinese hamster lung fibroblast cell line (V79) and in Swiss mice. LF-SLN showed no cytotoxic effect at the highest concentration tested (5,000 µg/mL), while LF exhibited an IC50 equivalent to 1,047 ± 4.50 µg/mL. The frequencies of micronuclei observed in vitro and in vivo in mammalian cells treated with different concentrations of LF and LF-SLN did not differ significantly from the negative control group. Therefore, LF and LF-SLN did not show genotoxic or cytotoxic effects under the experimental conditions used. These results contribute to the development of a drug for the treatment of leishmaniasis that is more effective and safer for human health.
A CATARSE NA ACEPÇÃO GRAMSCIANA E SUAS IMPLICAÇÕES PARA A EDUCAÇÃO ESPECIAL
Authors: Silva Régis Henrique dos Reis , Duarte Newton
Published: June 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo discutir sobre a conceituação gramsciana de catarse e suas implicações para a área de Educação Especial. Para tanto, inicialmente, apresenta considerações gerais sobre os escritos de Antônio Gramsci (1891-1937) e, em seguida, expõe os principais conceitos desse autor apreendidos pela área de Educação Especial no Brasil. Este estudo também examina a incorporação do conceito de catarse na acepção gramsciana ao método da pedagogia histórico-crítica e, por fim, com base nessa teoria pedagógica e sua conceituação gramsciana de catarse, problematiza algumas tentativas de apreensão dessa categoria a proposições teóricas e práticas na área de Educação Especial.
Briefing: Designing for the mind: a first standard for neurodiversity and the built environment
Authors: Hewitt Jean
Published: June 2024

The British Standards Institute’s appointed technical author for the PAS 6463 standard on designing and managing the built environment for neurodiversity shares a summary of the purpose, structure and influence of the guidance.
Briefing: Welsh 20 mile per hour (mph) speed limits: implementation, public perception and how is it working
Authors: Currie Claudia
Published: June 2024

The Welsh government took the bold decision to change the default speed for urban roads in 2022 when the Senedd voted to make Wales the first nation in the UK to adopt 20 mile/h as the default speed limit on restricted roads ( Welsh government, 2022 ). This was then implemented on the local roads in Wales on Sunday, 17 September 2023 and it has not been out of the headlines since.
Simplified method for seismic vulnerability of plan irregular RC buildings using degree of irregularity
Authors: Rathnasiri Saharsha Charumuka , Jayasinghe Supun Chamara , Bandara Chaminda Senarathna
Published: June 2024

Irregular buildings are more vulnerable to seismic loading, depending on their degree of irregularity. The degree of irregularity in vertically irregular buildings and its correlation to seismic vulnerability (SV) have been quantified in previous studies. However, these studies on plan irregular buildings were focused on only evaluating seismic performance. A simplified method, based on the degree of irregularity, is proposed to identify the SV of plan irregular reinforced concrete (PIRC) buildings. The different types of plan irregularities considered were diaphragm discontinuity, re-entrant corners, non-parallel systems and torsional irregularity. For each type of plan irregularity, numerical models were developed with varying degrees of irregularity. The numerical models were subjected to incremental dynamic analysis and the maximum interstorey drift was recorded to develop fragility curves. The proposed simplified method effectively identified the SV of the PIRC buildings based on their degree of plan irregularity. The method can help to identify the most vulnerable PIRC buildings at the initial stage of large-scale seismic simulations, such as integrated earthquake simulations of urban areas. It can thus be used as a filtering method to select the most vulnerable PIRC buildings that need detailed seismic analyses.
Vasiliy Vasilyeviç Radlov’un Proben (Örnekler) Serisinin Dokuzuncu Cildinin (Türk Boylarinin Sözlü Halk Edebiyatindan Örnekler: Uryanhaylarin (Soyotlarin), Abakan Tatarlarinin Ve Karagaslarin Lehçeleri) İncelenmesi
Authors: İnalcık Gülcan
Published: June 2024

Vasiliy Vasilyeviç Radlov (1837-1918), Türk boylarının dil, tarih, kültür, folklor ve etnografyası üzerine yaptığı incelemelerle Rusya’da Türkoloji’nin bir ilim dalı olarak kurulmasına ve gelişmesine öncülük etmiştir. 1860-1870 yılları arasında Altay ve Batı Sibirya Türkleri arasında gerçekleştirdiği ilmî geziler sırasında Radlov, Türk dili, tarihi, kültürü, folkloru ve etnografyası ile ilgili birçok sözlü ve yazılı materyal derlemiştir. Bu materyalleri 1866-1907 yılları arasında kısa adıyla Proben (Örnekler) adlı seride yayımlamıştır. Toplam 10 cilt olarak yayımlanan bu seri, farklı Türk boylarına ait dil materyalleri ve sözlü halk edebiyatı örneklerini ihtiva etmektedir. Cumhuriyetin ilânından sonra Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Mehmed Fuad Köprülü’yü Türk kültürünün dil, tarih, edebiyat, folklor sahalarında incelenmesi için bir müessese kurmakla görevlendirmiş ve 1924 yılında İstanbul Darülfünûnu bünyesinde Türkiyat Enstitüsü kurulmuştur. 1914 yılında Kazan’dan satın alınarak Türkiye’ye getirilen Türk asıllı Rus Türkolog Nikolay Fedoroviç Katanov’un (1862-1922) kütüphanesi de bu enstitünün temelini teşkil etmiştir. Radlov’un Proben serisinin dokuzuncu cildi Katanov tarafından derlenen ve çevirisi yapılan Uryanhaylara, Abakan (Minusinsk) Tatarlarına ve Karagaslara ait sözlü halk edebiyatı metinlerinden oluşmuştur. Eser, Atatürk’ün araştırılmasına büyük önem verdiği farklı coğrafyalardaki Türk boylarının dillerinin, tarihlerinin, etnografyalarının ve kültürlerinin öğrenilmesi açısından büyük önem arz etmektedir. Bu çalışmada, öncelikle Radlov’un ve Katanov’un hayatından ve ilmî araştırmalarından bahsedilmiş, daha sonra Katanov’un derlediği metinlerden oluşan ve Radlov tarafından yayımlanan Proben serisinin dokuzuncu cildi içerik açısından değerlendirilmiştir.
Alberti, Marta and Katie Mountain (eds). 2022. Hadrian’s Wall: Exploring Its Past to Protect Its Future. Archaeopress Roman Archaeology 90. Oxford: Archaeopress; 978-1-80327-274-0 paperback £28; 978-1-80327-275-7 eBook Open Access.
Authors: May Sarah
Published: June 2024

This is a review of Hadrian's Wall: Exploring Its Past to Protect Its Future edited by Marta Alberti and Katie Mountain, published in 2022 by Archaeopress.
Analysis of prognostic factors and construction of prognostic models for invasive lobular carcinoma of the breast
Authors: Cheng Lin , Wang Jianlin , Tang Liming
Published: June 2024

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) account for most cases of breast cancer. However, there is ongoing debate about any potential variations in overall survival (OS) between ILC and IDC. This study aimed to compare survival between IDC and ILC, identify prognostic factors for ILC patients, and construct a nomogram for predicting OS rates. This retrospective cohort analysis utilized data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Cancer Database. Patients diagnosed with ILC and IDC between 2000 and 2019 were enrolled. To minimize baseline differences in clinicopathological characteristics and survival outcomes, a propensity score matching (PSM) method was used. Data from the multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to construct a predictive nomogram for OS at 1, 3, and 5 years, incorporating all independent prognostic factors. Following the PSM procedure, patients with ILC exhibited a better prognosis compared to those with IDC. TNM stage, age >70, radiotherapy, surgery, estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HR-/HER2+) subtype were identified as independent factors for OS in ILC patients. Surgery and radiotherapy effectively reduced the risk of death, while chemotherapy did not demonstrate the same benefit. This model could support clinicians in evaluating the prognosis of ILC for decision-making and patient counseling.
Biocatalysts based on papain associates with chitosan nanoparticles
Authors: Goncharova Svetlana S. , Redko Yulia A. , Lavlinskaya Maria S. , Sorokin Andrey V. , Holyavka Marina G. , Kondratyev Maxim S. , Artyukhov Valery G.
Published: June 2024

The research purpose was to develop and study biocatalysts based on papain associates with chitosan nanoparticles. We obtained medium and high molecular weight chitosan nanoparticles, both with and without ascorbic acid .      When the papainna-noparticles complexes with ascorbic acid were formed, the catalytic activity of the enzyme increased by 3 % for medium molecular weight chitosan and by 16 % for high molecular weight chitosan. After 168 hours of incubation in 0.05 M of Tris-HCl buffer (pH 7.5) at 37 °C, the free enzyme retained 15 % of its catalytic activity, whereas its associates with chitosan nanoparticles exhibited ~ 30 %. The papain complex with chitosan nanoparticles and ascorbic acid exhibited 40 % of the enzyme catalytic activity.       We simulated the bonds and interactions within the chitosan-ascorbic acid-papain complex. The proposed biocatalysts have high prospects for effective use in cosmetology, biomedicine, and pharmacy.
Trap state and exciton luminescence of colloidal PbS quantum dots coated with thioglycolic acid molecules
Authors: Grevtseva Irina G. , Smirnov Mikhail S. , Chirkov Kirill S. , Ovchinnikov Oleg V.
Published: June 2024

This work presents the results of studying the IR luminescence of colloid PbS quantum dots coated with molecules of thioglycolic acid.      Luminescence of the sample was recorded using the InGaAs image sensor PDF 10C/M (ThorlabsInc., USA) and a diffraction monochromator with 600 mm-1 grating. To study the temperature dependence of luminescence, the sample was cooled in a nitrogen cryostat down to 80 К. A redistribution of the luminescence intensity between two peaks (1100 and 1280 nm) was identified upon a decrease in temperature. It was shown that an exciton absorption peak was present in the excitationspectrum for the short-wave luminescence peak, and the Stokes shift was ΔEstokes ~ 0.1 eV. On the contrary, the exciton peak was absent in the luminescence excitation spectrum of the long-wave band, and its red boundary was shifted towards the short-wave region, that provided the Stokes shift of more than 0.3 eV.       It was concluded that the short-wave luminescence band appeared as a result of the radiative annihilation of an exciton, while the long-wave band appeared due to the recombination of charge carriers at trap states. Trap state luminescence was effectively excited upon direct absorption of the radiation by the luminescence centre. A three-level diagram was suggested that determined the IR luminescence of colloid PbS quantum dots coated with thioglycolic acid molecules.
Photoelectric response in sandwich structures based on condensed layers of Ag2S quantum dots passivated with thioglycolic acid
Authors: Gurchenko Vladimir S. , Mazinov Alim S. , Smirnov Mikhail S. , Grevtseva Irina G. , Nesterenko Lolita P. , Ovchinnikov Oleg V.
Published: June 2024

The study is aimed at developing a technique for forming a structure with a Schottky barrier in the form of a mltilayer Al-Ag2S-ITO sandwich structure, which includes a condensate of colloidal Ag2S quantum dots passivated with thioglycolic acid molecules (Ag2S/TGA QDs).      The spectral properties were studied using a USB2000+ spectrometer (Ocean Optics, USA) with a USB-DT light source (Ocean Optics, USA). Electrophysical and photoelectric properties of the structures were studied using a Keysight B1500A semiconductor device analyzer (Keysight tech, USA). The study of the temperature dependences of the properties in the temperature range from 300 to 360 K was carried out in a Shielded room (Faraday cage) placed in a muffle furnace. It was found that the conductivity of the Al-Ag2S-ITO structure is mostly governed by the Schottky barrier at the Al-condensed Ag2S QDs film junction.       At the junction between the condensed Ag2S QDs film and Al, signs of the formation of a rectifying contact were found.       Under the action of the optical radiation with a wavelength of 650 nm and less, which corresponds to the most probable exciton transition in the UV-Vis absorption of Ag2S/TGA QDs, an increase in the current was found for the negative branch of the J-V curve.