bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A framework for assessing reliability of observer annotations of aerial wildlife imagery, with insights for deep learning applications
Authors: Converse Rowan L. , Lippitt Christopher D. , Sesnie Steven E. , Harris Grant M. , Butler Matthew J. , Stewart David R.
Published: January 2025

There is growing interest in using deep learning models to automate wildlife detection in aerial imaging surveys to increase efficiency, but human-generated annotations remain necessary for model training. However, even skilled observers may diverge in interpreting aerial imagery of complex environments, which may result in downstream instability of models. In this study, we present a framework for assessing annotation reliability by calculating agreement metrics for individual observers against an aggregated set of annotations generated by clustering multiple observers’ observations and selecting the mode classification. We also examined how image attributes like spatial resolution and texture influence observer agreement. To demonstrate the framework, we analyzed expert and volunteer annotations of twelve drone images of migratory waterfowl in New Mexico. Neither group reliably identified duck species: experts showed low agreement (43–56%) for several common species, and volunteers opted out of the task. When simplified into broad morphological categories, there was high agreement for cranes (99% among experts, 95% among volunteers) and ducks (93% among experts, 92% among volunteers), though agreement among volunteers was notably lower for classifying geese (75%) than among experts (94%). The aggregated annotation sets from the two groups were similar: the volunteer count of birds across all images was 91% of the expert count, with no statistically significant difference per image (t = 1.27, df = 338, p = 0.20). Bird locations matched 81% between groups and classifications matched 99.4%. Tiling images to reduce search area and maintaining a constant scale to keep size differences between classes consistent may increase observer agreement. Although our sample was limited, these findings indicate potential taxonomic limitations to aerial wildlife surveys and show that, in aggregate, volunteers can produce data comparable to experts’. This framework may assist other wildlife practitioners in evaluating the reliability of their input data for deep learning models.
Temporal changes in hospital readmissions for postpartum hypertension in the US, 2010 to 2019; a serial cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Deshpande Ashwini , Agnihotri Deepti , Campbell Alexa I. K. , Federspiel Jerome J. , Myers Evan R. , Ogbuoji Osondu
Published: January 2025

Background

Hypertension is the most common primary diagnosis associated with postpartum readmissions within 42 days of delivery hospitalization. In the United States, nearly half of the cases of eclampsia, a severe form of preeclampsia, develop during the postpartum period, and the postpartum onset of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, like antepartum hypertension poses long-term health risks to pregnant individuals, including an increased likelihood of developing overall cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, heart failure, and chronic hypertension. In this paper, we estimate the trends in the incidence of readmissions for postpartum hypertension within 42 days of delivery discharge in the US, disaggregated by median household income.

Methods and findings

Using National Readmissions Database, we calculated the readmission rates for postpartum hypertension, both overall and stratified by ZIP Code median household income for each year between 2010 and 2019. We also calculated the percentage change and average annual growth rate (AAGR) in the rate of readmissions for postpartum hypertension between 2010 and 2019 for each income group. We then used a logistic regression model to compare the temporal changes in readmission for postpartum hypertension between the lowest and the highest income quartiles. The estimated incidence of postpartum hypertension readmissions doubled for all the income groups between 2010 and 2019 (0.36% vs. 0.8%). While the incidence of postpartum hypertension cases was higher among the lowest-income quartile, the increase in postpartum hypertension readmissions between 2010 and 2019 was greater in the highest-income quartile. Moreover, the incidence of postpartum hypertension readmissions rose faster in pregnant patients without a history of hypertension compared to those with a history of hypertension (AAGR 8.3% vs. 5.1%).

Conclusion

The increasing postpartum hypertension readmission burden suggests rising future health risks among mothers and a growing cost burden to the U.S. healthcare system. The higher rate of increase in postpartum hypertension readmissions among people without a history of hypertension calls for blood pressure checking in the postpartum period for all patients regardless of risk status.
Effect of fatigability on sprint time performance and force-velocity profile according to maturity status in young rugby players
Authors: Galantine Paul , Sudlow Anthony , Hays Arnaud , Maso Freddy , Duché Pascale , Bertin Denis
Published: January 2025

Little is known about the influence of fatigue in repeated overground sprinting on force-velocity properties in children and adolescents, while this ability to repeat sprints is important for future progress in rugby union. Sprint time decline is commonly used to assess fatigability. However, it does not provide data on biomechanical aspects of sprint performance such as maximal power, force, and velocity production. As sprint time performance and force-velocity properties do not linearly change during adolescence, considering maturity status is important. This study aimed to assess the effect of fatigue on sprint time performance fatigability, force-velocity parameters, and mechanical effectiveness according to maturity status. A group of fifteen boys (12.5 ± 0.5 years) children and a group of seventeen boys (15.1 ± 0.6 years) adolescent rugby players completed seven blocks, consisting of a 30-meter sprint followed by five minutes of high-intensity exercise with one minute of passive recovery. The force-velocity parameters were calculated at each sprint, and performance decrement was assessed using a fatigue index. A main effect of block repetition was found for maximal power output, maximal force, maximal velocity, 30-meter sprint time, fatigue index and mechanical effectiveness parameters with large effect sizes (p <0.001; ηp2 = 0.19 to 0.47) and without a main effect of maturity status (p = 0.37 to 0.99; ηp2 = 0.00 to 0.05). This could be explained by the modalities (duration, intensity, recovery) of the protocol and the training level of the adolescent group. For both groups, the decrease in maximal power output was due more to a reduction in maximal velocity than force, and mechanical effectiveness was negatively impacted. Coaches could prioritize the training of horizontal force at high velocity under fatigue conditions, as this ability tends to be the most affected. They could also incorporate training on mechanical effectiveness as this is a determinant in team sports.
Ongoing measles outbreak in Romania: Clinical investigation and molecular epidemiology performed on whole genome sequences
Authors: Hohan Robert , Surleac Marius , Miron Victor Daniel , Tudor Andreea , Tudor Ana-Maria , Săndulescu Oana , Vlaicu Ovidiu , Aramă Victoria , Pițigoi Daniela , Hristea Adriana , Drăgănescu Anca Cristina , Paraskevis Dimitrios , Bănică Leontina , Oțelea Dan , Paraschiv Simona
Published: January 2025

Aim

Romania is currently facing a prolonged measles outbreak. The aim of the study was to analyse the circulating human measles virus (HMV) strains by combining whole genome sequencing (WGS) with phylogenetic analysis, with a focus on the haemagglutinin gene.

Methods

We conducted an observational study in the first five months of 2024, in which 168 patients diagnosed with measles were randomly included. We have evaluated the clinical and epidemiological differences between children and adults. Screening for samples to be sequenced was performed with a commercial kit (PrimerDesign). WGS was done on Illumina MiSeq platform and phylogenetic analysis was performed with ML FastTree.

Results

No significant epidemiological and clinical differences between patients in the two age groups were identified. WGS was successfully performed for a number of 124 HMV strains. Genotype analysis indicated all the sequences as D8, except one that was B3. Phylogenetic analysis identified two well supported clusters, suggestive for at least two local transmission networks in Romania. One large transmission network (n = 108) consisted of sequences both from adults and children. Only one sequence from outside Romania (reported in Russia in 2023) clustered within this group. Another small transmission cluster was identified (14 sequences of which 11 from patients infected in the spring of 2024 and three in 2022). A few differences between the two co-circulating viral variants/clusters were observed. The median duration of hospitalisation was 2 days longer for patients in smaller cluster compared to those in the larger one (p = 0.019). Furthermore, these two clusters presented different mutation profiles in the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (N) genes with implications for molecular surveillance.

Conclusion

The current measles epidemic in Romania is driven mainly by two D8 genotype variants with different mutation profiles and slightly different severity of the disease, highlighting the usefulness of sustained molecular surveillance.
Changes in enzymatic activity and oxidative stress in honeybees kept in the apiary and laboratory conditions during the course of nosemosis
Authors: Kunat-Budzyńska Magdalena , Łabuć Emilia , Ptaszyńska Aneta A.
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the level of oxidative stress and lysozyme-like and phenoloxidase (PO) activity under the influence of nosemosis. Honeybees were kept in natural (apiary) and artificial (laboratory) conditions. In this study, it was shown for the first time that honeybees kept in apiaries have higher levels and activity of the studied parameters than honeybees kept in the laboratory. The greatest difference was noted in the case of PO activity in 28-day-old infected honeybees in May, when the activity was 32.3 times higher in honeybees kept in the apiary than in the laboratory, suggesting that environmental conditions have a significant influence on the immune response of honeybees. Simultaneously, the apiary conditions resulted in higher level of oxidative stress, indicating lower effectiveness of antioxidative mechanisms. Additional nosemosis infection increased the level of oxidative stress as well as lysozyme and PO activities. In July, in 28-day-old infected honeybees kept in laboratory, the highest increase in PO activity (by 10.79 fold) was detected compared to healthy honeybees. This may indicate that infection causes a decrease in the effectiveness of primarily antioxidant mechanisms, whereas immune mechanisms are still activated during infection. Another interesting factor is the age of the honeybees. It was found that in the summer months (June, July) the lysozyme-like and PO activities increased with age, while in the case of oxidative stress the opposite trend was observed, suggesting better effectiveness of both immune and antioxidant mechanisms. Another important element is seasonality, which significantly affected only the lysozyme-like activity. It was found that in July in all the groups studied this activity was higher than in the other months. The results allow us to better understand the mechanisms of honeybee immunity, which are constantly being studied due to the complex social structure created by these insects. Our research emphasizes that honeybee immunity is dynamic and depends on a number of factors, such as environment, age, season or the presence of pathogens.
Prevalence and determinants of unhealthy feeding practices among young children aged 6–23 months in five sub-Saharan African countries
Authors: Tekeba Berhan , Tamir Tadesse Tarik , Workneh Belayneh Shetie , Wassie Mulugeta , Terefe Bewuketu , Ali Mohammed Seid , Mekonen Enyew Getaneh , Zegeye Alebachew Ferede , Zeleke Gebreeyesus Abera , Aemro Agazhe
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Despite the World Health Organization’s advice against unhealthy feeding, many low- and middle-income countries, including sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries, are experiencing a nutritional transition to high in sugar, unhealthy fats, salts, and processed carbohydrates for younger children. However, there is a scarcity of recently updated multicounty information on unhealthy feeding practices and determinants in SSA countries. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of unhealthy feeding practices and determinants among children aged 6–23 months in five SSA countries.

Method

A cross-sectional study design was employed with the most recent demographic and health survey secondary data (DHS) from five SSA countries. This secondary data was accessed from the DHS portal through an online request. The DHS is the global data collection initiative that provides detailed and high-quality data on population demographics, health, and nutrition in low- and middle-income countries. We used a weighted sample of 14,064 children aged 6–23 months. A multilevel mixed-effect binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify significant factors associated with unhealthy feeding practices. The level of statistical significance was declared with p-value < 0.05.

Result

This study found that overall, 62.4% (95% CI: 61.62–63.17) of children aged 6–23 months in five SSA countries had unhealthy feeding practices. Rural residents, lower-middle-income SSA countries, and children aged above 12 months had lower odds of unhealthy feeding practices. On the other hand, richer households and women who had not had an optimal antenatal care visit had higher odds of unhealthy feeding practices.

Conclusion

According to this study, nearly two out of three young children in five SSA countries had unhealthy feeding practices. Both individual and community-level factors are significantly associated with unhealthy feeding practices. As a result, responsible bodies shall make all efforts to reduce unhealthy feeding practices among young children in SSA countries.
Science and Soccer: A key combination
Authors: Figueiredo António J. , Silva Manuel João Coelho e , Favero Terrence , Sarmento Hugo
Published: January 2025

“Ciência e Futebol - Uma combinação fundamental” apresenta as mais recentes investigações científicas no domínio do futebol. Fazendo a ponte entre a teoria e a prática, este livro é a coleção mais abrangente da investigação atual sobre futebol, apresentando novos trabalhos importantes em áreas-chave como: (1) Análise de desempenho; (2) Nutrição; (3) Análise de jogos; (4) Jogos de pequena dimensão; (5) Biomecânica; (6) Futebol feminino; (7) Testes; (8) Monitorização; (9) Futsal; (10) Psicologia e sociologia; (11) Identificação e desenvolvimento de talentos; (12) Lesões.Os artigos contidos neste livro foram apresentados pela primeira vez no Congresso Mundial de Ciência e Futebol, realizado em junho de 2022 em Coimbra, Portugal. A reunião foi realizada sob os auspícios do International Steering Group on Science and Football, um membro representativo da Comissão Mundial de Ciência e Desporto.
Chaves dicotómicas dos géneros de abelhas de Portugal: Hymenoptera Anthophila
Authors: Gaspar Hugo
Published: January 2025

As abelhas (Hymenoptera: Anthophila), com cerca de 750 espécies em Portugal, são um grupo de insetos polinizadores cruciais para o funcionamento dos ecossistemas e para a segurança alimentar. No entanto, as abelhas enfrentam fortes ameaças, com tendências negativas tanto na abundância de indivíduos como na diversidade de espécies. Neste contexto, é urgente desenvolver ações de conservação que garantam a proteção da biodiversidade e a sustentabilidade dos ecossistemas a longo prazo. Estas ações de conservação devem, no entanto, ser desenhadas e implementadas com base em planos de ação e programas de monitorização robustos implementados a longo prazo. Paralelamente, ao longo de várias décadas, assistimos a um desinvestimento na taxonomia dos insetos resultando num número limitado de entomólogos para o acompanhamento dos planos de ação. Nesse sentido, é crucial capacitar as novas gerações na área da entomologia, e em particular na identificação de abelhas. Este trabalho é uma adaptação de Michez et al. (2024) e representa uma versão atualizada das chaves dicotómicas dos géneros de abelhas de Portugal. Neste trabalho é feita uma caracterização geral sobre o ciclo de vida, ecologia e morfologia externa, resumem-se as famílias, subfamílias, tribos e géneros presentes em Portugal, incluindo o número de espécies e principais referências bibliográficas disponíveis para subsequente identificação à espécie, e fornecem-se duas chaves de identificação de géneros, uma para fêmeas e outra para machos. Estas chaves têm como objetivo tornar o ensino e a aprendizagem da taxonomia das abelhas de Portugal mais acessível e promover a entomologia.
Mistérios dos acasos, doutrina da ocasião
Authors: Pécora Alcir
Published: January 2025

Trata-se de uma sucessão de ensaios sobre a obra do Padre Antonio Vieira, SJ (1608-1697), com foco em sua sermonística antimaquiavélica, vale dizer, que impede a separação entre os assuntos de Deus e os dos homens, reforçando não apenas a dimensão ética da política, como o modelo político da ética cristã.
Se o conteúdo é rei, a conversão é a rainha: O dilema da Dona Diva
Authors: Silva Isadora Mara da , Lana Jailson , Partyka Raul Beal , Kreling Brenda Kreling
Published: January 2025

Este trabalho apresenta a história real da Dona Diva, uma empresa do ramo de semijoias que opera no e-commerce e está presente em todo território nacional, tanto no atacado quanto no varejo. O foco é apresentar as estratégias de marketing digital utilizadas pelos sócios e pela equipe de marketing e vendas da empresa. Neste contexto, o principal objetivo é investigar a importância do marketing digital e das mídias sociais para expor os benefícios e malefícios (quando não aplicados de forma correta) desses canais de marketing e comunicação entre a empresa e seus clientes. O dilema do caso é: Como gerar conteúdo para dois canais distintos, com particularidades e interesses diferentes (B2B e B2C), para vender por meio do e-commerce, para ambos? O caso foi construído a partir de fontes primárias, com entrevistas com os fundadores da empresa, e de fontes secundárias. Os nomes dos sócios, da empresa, e a originalidade da história foram mantidos fiéis em todos os momentos.
If content is king, conversion is queen: The dilemma of Dona Diva
Authors: Silva Isadora Mara da , Lana Jailson , Partyka Raul Beal , Kreling Brenda Kreling
Published: January 2025

This work presents the real story of Dona Diva, a semi-jewelry company operating in e-commerce and serving the entire national territory, both in wholesale and retail. This study focuses on highlighting the digital marketing strategies implemented by the company's founders and its marketing and sales team. Within this context, the primary objective is to investigate the importance of digital marketing and social media in showcasing the advantages and disadvantages (especially when misapplied) of these marketing and communication channels between the company and its customers. The central dilemma of the case is: *How can content be created for two distinct channels, with different characteristics and interests (B2B and B2C), to drive e-commerce sales for both?* The case was built using primary sources, through interviews with the company's founders, as well as secondary sources. The names of the founders, the company, and the originality of the story were faithfully preserved throughout.
Existence of two infinite families of solutions to a
singular superlinear equation on exterior domains
Authors: Aryal Narayan , Iaia Joseph
Published: January 2025

We are concerned with the radial solutions of the Dirichlet
problem

−

Δ

u
=
K
(

|

x

|

)
f
(
u
)

on the exterior of the ball of
radius

R
>
0

centered at the origin in

R

N

 with 
N

≥

3

where

f

is superlinear at

∞

and has a
singularity at

0

with

f
(
u
)

∼

1

|

u

|

q

−

1

u

 and 
0
<
q
<
1

for small

u

. We prove that if

K
(

|

x

|

)

∼

|

x

|

−

α

with

α

>
2
(
N

−

1
)

then there exist two
infinite families of sign-changing radial
solutions.
Weak solutions for a class of quasilinear elliptic equation
containing the

p
(

⋅

)

-Laplacian and the mean curvature
operator in a variable exponent
Sobolev space
Authors: Aramaki Junichi
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we consider the equation for a class of
nonlinear
operators containing

p
(

⋅

)

-Laplacian and mean
curvature operator with mixed boundary
conditions in a bounded
domain

Ω

of

R

N

, under the hypothesis

p
(
x
)
>
1

in

Ω

¯

. More precisely, we are
concerned with the problem under the
Dirichlet condition on a part
of the boundary and the Steklov
boundary condition on an another
part of the boundary. We show the
existence of one, two and
infinitely many nontrivial weak solutions
of the equation
according to the conditions on given functions.
Normalized solutions for Kirchhoff-type equations with
combined
nonlinearities: the

L
2

-critical case
Authors: Liu Changlin , Lv Ying , Ou Zeng-Qi
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we consider the existence of normalized
solutions
for the following Kirchhoff-type problem:

−

(

a
+
b

∫

R

N

|

∇

u

|

2

d
x

)

Δ

u
=

λ

u
+

|

u

|

p

−

2

u
+

μ

|

u

|

q

−

2

u

in

 

R

N

,

with prescribed

L

2

-norm:

∫

R

N

|

u

|

2

d
x
=

c

2

,

where

N
=
2
,
3

,

a

≥

0

,

b
>
0

and

c
>
0

are constants,

λ

∈

R

,

2
<
q
<
p
=
2
+

8
N

and

μ

>
0

. The
number

2
+

8
N

behaves as the

L
2

-critical exponent for
the
above problem. We prove the multiplicity
of normalized
solutions
for the above Kirchhoff-type problem with

L
2

-critical
nonlinearity (that is,

p
=
2
+

8
N

) in the two cases:

2
<
q
<
2
+

4
N

and

2
+

4
N

<
q
<
2
+

8
N

.
Systematic review of the identification, assessment, and mitigation of safety risks in high-rise building construction
Authors: Lei Wei Rui , Azry Khoiry Muhamad , A Mutalib Azrul
Published: January 2025

The construction industry accounts for a large proportion of the national GDP; however, it is one of the world’s most dangerous industrial sectors. Existing studies have inadequately reviewed safety risk-related research in high-rise building construction. Therefore, this study conducts a systematic review of safety risks in high-rise building construction from 2004 to 2024. First, the paper presents investigates the causes of accidents and risk factors that endanger occupational safety and health, comprising 8 main factors and 60 sub-factors. Second, the paper explores the assessment methods for evaluating and ranking these safety risk factors, of which nine typical methods are elaborated. Finally, a technical framework for mitigating the eight main safety risk factors is established in paper, providing safety practitioners with access to cutting-edge technologies and methods in the construction industry. Furthermore, this study provides suggestions and future directions for addressing the drawbacks of current mitigation measures to sustainably improve building construction safety.
Fogyatékossággal élő személyek társadalmi integrálása
Authors: da Cunha Martins Solene Pais
Published: January 2025

Összefoglaló Jackline Lidubwi, az Internews Kenya projektvezetője és Anna Kompanek,
a CIPE globális programjainak igazgatójának beszélgetéséről a fogyatékkal élők befogadá-
sáról a fejlődő országokban. A podcast epizód a következő linken érhető el: https://www.
cipe.org/podcast/democracy-that-delivers-351-inclusion-of-persons-with-disabilities/
Synthesis and photochemical stability of polymeric derivatives formed by the reaction of acrylamide and succinic anhydride copolymer with dyes
Authors: Mousa Souad , Awad Sana Hitur , Martincigh Bice S. , Al-Baidhani Mohammed
Published: January 2025

A new derivative of PAM, acrylamide was copolymerized with succinic anhydride, and the reaction product reacted with three dyes, anthocyanin, bromophenol, and thymol. The prepared polymers were characterized by X-ray diffraction, FT-IR and UV-visible spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry, and thermal analysis. FT-IR spectroscopy showed the disappearance of two bands near 3450 and 3380 cm-1 for the stretching vibrations of the primary amine which indicates for the formation of amides. The UV-photolysis of aqueous solutions of different concentrations of the polymers was studied. Polyacrylamide-g-succinic anhydride showed an increase in polymerization under light. An increase of ~ 50% was observed for a 200 mg/L solution after 10 h of irradiation. The polyacrylamide-g-succinic anhydride-anthocyanin polymer also showed an increase in polymerization with continuous irradiation. The percentage increase was ~ 26% for a 1000 mg/L solution of the polymer after 10 h under UV-light. The same behavior was observed for anthocyanin, and the highest percentage increase was ~23% for 15000 mg/L of dye. On the other hand, the polyacrylamide-g-succinic anhydride-bromophenol, polyacrylamide-g-succinic anhydride-thymol polymers underwent photodegradation upon UV-illumination. This work has shown that the photodegradation of PAMs can be prevented by copolymerization with suitable dyes.
Application of cyber-physical systems for additive manufacturing of polymer products
Authors: Paszkiewicz Andrzej , Budzik Grzegorz , Przytuła Mateusz , Rączka Dariusz , Madera Michał , Kądziołka Tomasz
Published: January 2025

The article presents the use of IT systems and cooperative robots in the 3D printing process based on the layered extrusion of polymer materials, enabling the construction of autonomous production cells that meet the assumptions of cyber-physical production systems. This solution allows for an innovative approach to planning the production of products from polymer materials in terms of pre- and post-process operations using remote monitoring, and optionally allows the use of artificial intelligence to control the production process. An important feature of the proposed solution is its modularity and scalability, which is important when manufacturing products using the 3D printing method from thermoplastic polymer materials.
Novel polyamide 6 nanocomposites with graphene oxide-modified silica
Authors: Jeziórska Regina , Spasówka-Kumosińska Ewa , Szadkowska Agnieszka , Studziński Maciej , Żubrowska Magdalena
Published: January 2025

Graphene oxide-modified silica (GO-SiO2) with particle sizes of 30 and 60 nm was obtained by sol-gel method and used as a hybrid nanofiller for polyamide 6. Maleic anhydride (MAH) was used to improve the interactions between the filler and the polymer matrix. The composites were obtained by extrusion. A constant amount of GO-SiO2 (1 wt%) and MAH (0.5 wt%) was used. Photon correlation spectroscopy, SEM and low temperature nitrogen adsorption were used to characterize GO-SiO2. The composites were evaluated by ATR-FT-IR, SEM, DSC, DMTA and TGA. The crystal structure, thermal properties, water absorption and mechanical properties were investigated. The results showed that GO-SiO2 acts as a nucleating agent, increasing the crystallinity and crystallization temperature of the composites. In addition, GO-SiO2 increased the stiffness of PA, with a greater effect for larger silica particles (60 nm). MAH slightly decreased stiffness and crystallinity but improved the tensile and impact properties because of the homogeneous dispersion of GO-SiO2 in the polymer matrix, as well as improved interfacial interactions (SEM). Furthermore, the composites showed lower water absorption (by 30%) and higher thermal stability as evidenced by higher T10% (1–6°C) and Tmax (10–20°C).
Between assimilation and recognition of Indigenous Peoples: the role of intercultural bilingual education in Latin America
Authors: Zsögön Maria Cecilia
Published: January 2025

This article aims to contribute to the ongoing discussion surrounding the concept of educational inclusion for Indigenous Peoples in Latin America. Despite official policies and programmes designed to promote diversity, their effectiveness is often hindered by the persistence of subtle yet damaging forms of racism that fail to recognise the epistemic perspectives of non-European peoples. Our focus lies on the challenges of education within multicultural contexts, particularly on intercultural bilingual education – a pedagogical model implemented in various countries across the region. Through the lenses of critical pedagogy and post-colonialism, the article analyses this perspective, shedding light on the persistently marginalised status of non-European knowledge within the symbolic landscapes of the region. It contends that the respect and acknowledgement of Indigenous knowledge systems represent not only an educational imperative but also an ethical and political one. This entails disrupting power asymmetries that perpetuate the segmentation and isolation of marginalised groups. Additionally, it offers an opportunity to fulfil the potential of education in deactivating asymmetrical positions and fostering respect for the legitimacy of the other.
Dimorphic Nature of Adipose Tissue and Role of Herbal Extracts in Lipids Metabolism
Authors: Dzitoyeva S. G.
Published: January 2025

Adipose tissue, known as body fat, plays a crucial role in human health and disease. Traditionally viewed as a storage site for excess energy as body fat, advances in medical research have shown the complex and dynamic nature of adipose tissue, highlighting its critical role in the regulation of metabolism, hormone production, and immune response. Adipose tissue is subdivided into two types – lipids accumulating white adipose tissue (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT), color of which is determined by the load of mitochondria; the beige adipose tissue (BeAT) is a mix of WAT and BAT cells. This review aims to explore the multifaceted aspects of WAT, focusing on key areas: the diverse cell types comprising WAT and their unique functions, the major genes expressed and secreted from adipose tissue cells, the role of adipose tissue in inflammation, and the sex-specific differences in adipose tissue transcriptomes. Understanding the intricate dynamics of adipose tissue in the context of secreted factors having systemic effects, including inflammatory response, is essential, given its central role in maintaining energy balance and metabolic homeostasis in health issues like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Examining adipocyte-specific transcriptomes gives an understanding of the unique characteristics of these cells. The dimorphic nature of adipose tissue not only influences body fat distribution but also affects disease susceptibility and response to treatment. Additionally, this review will cover the increasingly recognized role and the intriguing effects of plant extracts on adipogenesis, which offer potential therapeutic avenues for treating obesity and its related disorders.
Identification of novel pathogenic variants in the GNAS gene in children with morbid obesity and pseudohypoparathyroidism
Authors: Kopytina D. A. , Vasyukova O. V. , Salakhov R. R. , Okorokov P. L. , Kopytina E. V. , Nagaeva E. V. , Khusainova R. I. , Minniakhmetov I. R. , Popov S. V. , Bezlepkina O. B. , Mokrysheva N. G.
Published: January 2025

Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is a clinically heterogeneous group of rare inherited bone diseases characterized by resistance of target organs to the action of parathormone (PTH) as result of an epi/genetic disorder.This article describes patients with the phenotype of pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1a in whom two previously undescribed variants in the GNAS gene were identified: NM_000516.7(GNAS):c.586-18_591del, which captures intron 7, exon 8 acceptor splice site and exon 8 splice site resulting in a 24 nucleotide deletion, and NM_000516.7(GNAS):c.201del p.Phe68LeufsTer32 resulting in a reading frame shift and a premature termination codon in two unrelated children with progressive weight gain from birth. According to the pathogenicity evaluation criteria, both variants are categorized as likely pathogenic variants
El neoliberalismo y las manifestaciones cristianas protestantes en Latinoamérica
Authors: Botero Bernal Andrés , Aguirre Javier , Orozco Edward
Published: January 2025

Este artículo se propone encontrar las relaciones de tensión y complementariedad entre el neoliberalismo y las manifestaciones cristianas protestantes más relevantes en Latinoamérica. Se inicia con un esclarecimiento de las implicaciones y las acepciones que tiene el término neoliberalismo en la actualidad. A continuación, se describen las principales manifestaciones protestantes latinoamericanas. Para el caso específico de este artículo, se cuestiona detalladamente por dos de sus manifestaciones, el pentecostalismo y el neopentecostalismo, indagando por sus rasgos distintivos y los valores morales que defienden. Luego, se expone el neopentecostalismo como una forma religiosa influida por lo neoliberal y se finaliza describiendo los elementos filosófico–conceptuales del neoliberalismo que pueden considerarse cercanos al protestantismo, pentecostalismo y neopentecostalismo de forma tal que la fuerza renovada de estas últimas pueda explicarse en relación con el predominio global del primero.
Transcription Protein STAT1: Biology and Relation to Cancer
Authors: Adámková L. , Součková K. , Kovařík Jan
Published: January 2025

Cell homeostasis is controlled and regulated by multiple signalling proteins that operate almost in all cellular compartments. Their common task is to process regulatory signals from both the extracellular and intracellular spaces by triggering a cascade of intracellular events leading to modulation of downstream gene activity. One of the important signalling pathways is represented by the STAT multigene family comprising seven members. In general, various STATs act as potent transcription factors delivering signals of diverse polypeptide ligands (i.e. cytokines and growth factors) into the nucleus. This review summarizes some up-to-date data on the role of STAT1 in maintaining cellular homeostasis with the emphasis on its role in the control of cell growth, proliferation, apoptosis, and immune reactions. Part of the review deals with expression and posttranslational abnormalities of this molecule identified in a variety of human pathological conditions including cancer. The direct or indirect involvement of STAT1 in the process of malignant transformation is highlighted in view of these molecular perturbances that may contribute to oncogenesis and that may be potentially used as novel targets for anticancer therapy.
Differential Diagnosis of Gingival Hyperplasia Based on IFN-γ-stimulated Gene Expression Using RT-PCR
Authors: Niedzielska Iwona , Sypniewski D. , Mazurek U. , Wilczok T. , Niedzielski Z. , Wziatek–Kuczmik D.
Published: January 2025

Epulus is a benign gingival tumour of unknown aetiopathogenesis. Classification is inconsistent, and standard management strategies are lacking. Epuli are generally believed to be inflammatory rather than neoplastic lesions. The literature does not present any molecular analysis of the tumour characteristics. The purpose of the present study was to compare benign (epulus) and malignant (cancer) gingival hyperplasias with regard to the activity of the genes of apoptosis, proliferation, and inflammation using RT-PCR. The investigation involved 70 patients with epuli and 15 patients with gingival squamous cell carcinoma. Each subject had specimens collected from the tumour, tissue margin (incision line), and healthy tissue. Molecular investigations by RT-PCR were used to evaluate expression levels of the genes associated with apoptosis (Bcl-2, Bax, Bcl-2/Bax), proliferation (H3 histone), and inflammatory processes (IFN-γ, IFNγ-R1, IFN-γR2, IFN-γR1/IFN-γR2). Correlations have been disclosed between apoptosis and proliferation genes expression in giant cell epuli and high-differentiated gingival squamous cell carcinoma. In RT-PCR molecular analysis, giant cell epulus shows characteristics of a neoplastic lesion, while other epulus types seem to be inflammatory tumours.
Phenotypic Characterization of Porcine Interfollicular Keratinocytes Separated by Elutriation: a Technical Note
Authors: Klíma J. , Motlík J. , Gabius H.-J. , Smetana Karel
Published: January 2025

Separation of epidermal stem cells from other populations in suspensions of epidermal cells by sorting is hampered by a present lack of specific surface markers of this cell type. To address this issue we applied CCE combined with immunocytochemical phenotyping. On the basis of expression profiles for keratins (10, 14, and 19), nucleostemin, galectin-1 and epitopes reactive for this adhesion/growth-regulatory tissue lectin we identified a fraction of very small cells originating from the basal layer. The results demonstrated that CCE has potential merit for separation of epidermal cells to yield a population likely enriched in stem cells.
Obrazy polskie w powieści Alaina van Crugtena La dictature des ignares
Authors: Delanois-Walczak Dorota
Published: January 2025

Alain van Crugten – urodzony w 1936 roku brukselczyk, profesor Wolnego Uniwersytetu w Brukseli i tłumacz arcydzieł z kanonu literatury europejskiej, znawca prozy i dramatów – przyznaje szczególne miejsce polskiej historii, literaturze i kulturze. Van Crugten ma między innymi na swoim koncie przetłumaczone z języka polskiego na język francuski wszystkie dramaty Witkacego i jego dwie powieści, dzieła teatralne Mariana Pankowskiego, utwory Brunona Schulza. Jako polonista zawiera w swoim własnym, bogatym dziele literackim, teatralnym i prozatorskim, liczne odniesienia i konteksty, aluzje i cytaty do polskiej kultury. Jednak pełniejszy obraz Polski i Polaków obecny jest w wydanej w 2023 roku powieści Alaina van Crugtena La dictature des ignares. Artykuł pokazuje, nawiązując do metodologii geografii literackiej, wędrówkę głównego bohatera szlakami turystyki, literaturoznawstwa, a także historii; bada wagę obrazu Polski i Polaków z perspektywy świata-teatru: „Placu Teatralnego” w Warszawie, a także – Dziadów Adama Mickiewicza i Kazimierza Dejmka, przy współudziale wielu innych językowych, literackich, gatunkowych i historycznych (zwłaszcza do 1968 roku) odniesień do poloniców.
E-glottodydaktyka – studium przypadku
Authors: Bambrowicz Olga
Published: January 2025

Rosnące zainteresowanie nauką języka polskiego jako obcego prowadzi do wzrostu zapotrzebowania na innowacyjne rozwiązania edukacyjne. Wśród obcokrajowców dążących do osiągnięcia biegłości językowej znajdują się nie tylko studenci, lecz także osoby aktywne zawodowo, które poszukują kursów umożliwiających szybką naukę języka, uwzględniającą elementy profesjolektu. Niniejszy tekst stanowi syntetyczną prezentację, wypracowanych przez glottodydaktyczki z Uniwersytetu im. Adama Mickiewicza w Poznaniu, rozwiązań odpowiadających na specyficzne potrzeby niestandardowej grupy odbiorców, w skład której wchodzą głównie osoby pracujące lub planujące wejście na polski rynek pracy.
Green Securitization, A Legal Structure Currently Unfit for Ecological Transition
Authors: Cornut St-Pierre Pascale , Gareau-Lindsay Jasmine
Published: January 2025

Ever since the 2007–2008 financial crisis, the European banking sector and its regulating authorities have been seeking to revive securitization markets in Europe. The most recent attempt in this direction is the inscription of green securitization in the European sustainable finance agenda. Building on Katharina Pistor’s work on the legal coding of capital as well as Eve Chiapello’s work on financialization as a socio-technical process, our proposed contribution focuses on the legal structuring of green securitization. Based on the legal documentation and sustainability frameworks of four recent green securitization deals tied to energy-efficiency home improvements, it critically examines the new kind of financial circuits that is being constructed to channel funds towards projects deemed to create positive impacts on the environment. Our analysis shows that green securitization’s current legal structure fails to properly incorporate sustainability considerations, whether in its contractual terms, financial metrics, or parties involved.
CMSP exerts anti-tumor effects on small cell lung cancer cells by inducing mitochondrial dysfunction and ferroptosis
Authors: Yan Xi , Niu Yinghao , Wang Yaojie , Wei Sisi , Han Lina , Guo Zhongyu , Zhao Lianmei , Gao Feng
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the role and mechanism of p-hydroxyl cinnamaldehyde (CMSP) in triggering ferroptosis of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) cells.

Methods

The impact of CMSP on ferroptosis in H1688 and SW1271 cells was assessed through cell experiments and biological information analysis. Moreover, the expression of heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX1) in SCLC tissue was examined.

Results

Following CMSP treatment, a concentration-dependent increase in cell death was observed, and differentially expressed genes were found to be associated with ferroptosis. CMSP notably facilitated ferroptosis events, such as elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), Fe2+, malondialdehyde (MDA), transferrin receptor 1 (TFR1), divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1), and decreased levels of glutathione (GSH), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4). Furthermore, CMSP promoted mitochondrial dysfunction, manifested as reduced mitochondrial volume, increased membrane density, elevated mitochondrial ROS, and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. Consistently, the mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant Mito-TEMPO reversed CMSP-induced ferroptosis. Expression of the HMOX1 gene was markedly increased under CMSP treatment, while lower expression was observed in cancer tissue compared to adjacent tissue.

Conclusion

CMSP triggers mitochondrial dysfunction via HMOX1 activation, leading to ferroptosis in SCLC cells, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic agent for SCLC.
Effects of Maturation on the Magnitude and Direction of Asymmetry in Jumping and Change of Direction Speed in Young Elite Football Players
Authors: Gonzalo-Skok Oliver , Bishop Chris
Published: January 2025

Gonzalo-Skok, O and Bishop, C. Effects of maturation on the magnitude and direction of asymmetry in jumping and change of direction speed in young elite football players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2024—Physical performance is often affected by maturation in young athletes and provides an interesting challenge to optimize performance. The present study analyzed whether maturation affects directional dominance, chronological age, body mass, and biological age predictors and assessed between chronological or biological age-group differences in young footballers. One hundred eight elite male players (U-15 to U-19) were tested on bilateral vertical and unilateral vertical and horizontal jumping, sprinting (40 m), and change of direction (COD) ability over single and multiple CODs (times and the percentage-based COD deficit [%CODD]). Almost half of the players (45%) at post–peak height velocity (PHV) showed consistency in the direction of asymmetry (jumping and COD). Ten-meter sprint time was the main predictor to explain the %CODD. Standing height affects unilateral horizontal jumping, and peak speed and unilateral horizontal jumping were the main predictors for unilateral vertical jumping. Post-PHV reported significantly (p < 0.05, effect size [ES] = 0.76–1.50) greater vertical and horizontal jumping, and linear and COD speed performance than mid-PHV. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in jumping, sprinting, and COD performance were found between U-15 and the rest of groups. Furthermore, the U-16 group showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) to the U-19 (for peak speed) and U-18 groups (for 40-m sprint and peak speed). Significantly (p = 0.04, ES = 0.47) lower %CODD asymmetries were found in mid-PHV compared with post-PHV. The study highlights the impact of maturation on the direction of asymmetry, tending to show the same weak side as maturation increases (i.e., older, and more experienced and mature players). Finally, decreasing between-limbs asymmetry should be considered during maturation, especially as greater football specialization.
Effects of Soccer Match-Play on Muscle Strength, Physical Performance, and Perceptual Responses in Elite Female Players
Authors: Gereduz Agapito Laura , Brownstein Callum G. , Maffiuletti Nicola A.
Published: January 2025

Gereduz Agapito, L, Brownstein, CG, and Maffiuletti, NA. Effects of soccer match-play on muscle strength, physical performance, and perceptual responses in elite female players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2024—The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of actual soccer match-play on muscle strength, physical performance, and perceptual responses in elite female players. Twelve Swiss elite players were tested before (pre), after (post) and 48 hours after a 90-minute soccer match for knee and hip muscle strength, vertical jump height, and sprint time. Perceptual responses were also evaluated up to 72 hours postmatch with a self-reported questionnaire. Muscle strength, jump, and sprint performance were impaired at post compared with pre (p < 0.001), but fully recovered at 48 hours. Percent strength losses were higher for knee flexors (∼20%) compared with both hip adductors (∼12%; p = 0.005) and abductors (8–12%; p < 0.001), and for knee extensors compared with hip abductors (p = 0.013). Regardless of muscle group, strength losses were higher on the dominant than on the nondominant side (p = 0.010). Most perceptual responses were altered after the match (p < 0.001) and some items such as motivation to train and readiness to play remained unrecovered at 72 hours (p < 0.01). Soccer match-play induced a significant decline of knee and hip muscle strength in elite female players that was more marked for knee flexors than for hip muscles. This was accompanied by performance impairments and by altered perceptual responses that still persisted 72 hours after the match. These findings offer implications for the optimization of postmatch recovery strategies in elite female soccer players.