bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Raman-induced compound-mode squeezing in a nonlinear coupler implementing Wigner representation and the analytical method
Authors: Hanapi Mohd Syafiq M. , Ibrahim Abdel-Baset M. A. , Julius Rafael , Choudhury Pankaj K.
Published: December 2024

We investigate the generation of compound-mode squeezing in a Raman nonlinear coupler using both the analytical perturbative (AP) method and the Wigner phase-space representation. While the AP approach is rooted in the Heisenberg picture, the Wigner representation employs the Schrödinger picture, enabling a detailed comparison of the two frameworks. The temporal evolution of compound-mode squeezing is rigorously analyzed across different mode combinations, revealing an oscillatory behavior within a specific time window that depends on key system parameters. The optimal point within this window offers insights into maximizing squeezing under precise conditions. Both methods yield consistent results, providing robust insights into the dynamics of squeezing. This study advances the understanding of compound-mode squeezing in Raman nonlinear systems, with unique applications in quantum metrology, secure quantum communication, and advanced quantum sensing technologies.
Single-photon single-pixel dual-wavelength imaging via frequency spectral harmonics extraction strategy
Authors: Liu Hongrui , Song Kai , Bian Yaoxing , Xiao Liantuan
Published: December 2024

In this paper, a single-photon single-pixel dual-wavelength imaging technology based on frequency spectral harmonics extraction is proposed. Using the independent repetition frequencies of pulsed light as multiplexed signals, the reconstructed image with optimal quality is obtained via extracting the sum of the intensities of the first 7 harmonics. Meanwhile, the post-pulse and fluctuation noise are effectively eliminated by applying preprocessing to the photon counting sequence, reducing the crosstalk of dual-wavelength to 2.29 × 10−4. Moreover, the frequency spectral analysis of the photon counting sequence at sub-photon level of per pixel in a single measurement is realized. With 4.5 × 10−3 photons per pixel in a single measurement, the 256 × 256 image is well reconstructed. Compared to photon counting single-pixel imaging technology, the proposed technique significantly enhances image quality and enables the dual-wavelength imaging with fewer photons. These results can promote the applications of dual-wavelength imaging in extremely low-light scenes.
Analyzing the acceleration time and reflectance of light sails made from homogeneous and core-shell spheres
Authors: Whittam Mitchell R. , Rebholz Lukas , Zerulla Benedikt , Rockstuhl Carsten
Published: December 2024

Deciding on appropriate materials and designs for use in light sails, like the one proposed in the Breakthrough Starshot Initiative, is a topic that requires much care and forethought. Here, we offer a feasible option in the form of metasurfaces made of periodically arranged homogeneous and core-shell spheres. Using the re-normalized T–matrix from Mie theory, we explore the reflectance, absorptance, and acceleration time of such metasurfaces. We focus on spheres made from aluminum, silicon, silicon dioxide, and combinations thereof. Since the light sails are foreseen to be accelerated using Earth-based laser arrays to 20% of the speed of light, one needs to account for relativistic effects. As a result, a high broadband reflectance is essential for effective propulsion. We identify metasurfaces that offer such properties combined with a low absorptance to reduce heating and deformation. We highlight a promising extension to the case of a metasurface made from homogeneous silicon spheres, as already discussed in the literature, by adding a layer of silicon dioxide. The high broadband reflectance of the silicon and silicon dioxide combination is explained by the favorable interference of the multipolar contributions of the outgoing field up to quadrupolar order. We also consider the impact of an embedding material characterized by different refractive indices. Refractive indices up to 1.13 maintain over 90% reflectance without re-optimizing the light sail.
Melioidosis in goats at a single Australian farm was caused by multiple diverse lineages of Burkholderia pseudomallei present in soil
Authors: Busch Joseph D. , Kaestli Mirjam , Mayo Mark , Roe Chandler C. , Vazquez Adam J. , Choy Jodie Low , Harrington Glenda , Benedict Suresh , Stone Nathan E. , Allender Christopher J. , Bowen Richard A. , Keim Paul , Currie Bart J. , Sahl Jason W. , Tuanyok Apichai , Wagner David M.
Published: December 2024

Background

Burkholderia pseudomallei, causative agent of melioidosis, is a One Health concern as it is acquired directly from soil and water and causes disease in humans and agricultural and wild animals. We examined B. pseudomallei in soil and goats at a single farm in the Northern Territory of Australia where >30 goats acquired melioidosis over nine years.

Methodology/Principal findings

We cultured 45 B. pseudomallei isolates from 35 goats and sampled soil in and around goat enclosures to isolate and detect B. pseudomallei and evaluate characteristics associated with its occurrence; 33 soil isolates were obtained from 1993–1994 and 116 in 2006. Ninety-two goat and soil isolates were sequenced; mice were challenged with six soil isolates to evaluate virulence. Sampling depth and total N/organic C correlated with B. pseudomallei presence. Twelve sequence types (STs) were identified. Most goat infections (74%) were ST617, some with high similarity to 2006 soil isolates, suggesting ST617 was successful at persisting in soil and infecting goats. ST260 and ST266 isolates were highly virulent in mice but other isolates produced low/intermediate virulence; three of these were ST326 isolates, the most common soil ST in 2006. Thus, virulent and non-virulent lineages can co-occur locally. Three genes associated with virulence were present in ST260 and ST266, absent in most ST326 isolates, and present or variably present in ST617.

Conclusions/Significance

Agricultural animals can influence B. pseudomallei abundance and diversity in local environments. This effect may persist, as B. pseudomallei was detected more often from soil collected inside and adjacent to goat enclosures years after most goats were removed. Following goat removal, the low virulence ST326, which was not isolated from soil when goats were present, became the predominant ST in soil by 2006. Although multiple diverse lineages of B. pseudomallei may exist in a given location, some may infect mammals more efficiently than others.
Islands of genomic stability in the face of genetically unstable metastatic cancer
Authors: Bowland Kirsten , Lai Jiaying , Skaist Alyza , Zhang Yan , Teh Selina Shiqing K. , Roberts Nicholas J. , Thompson Elizabeth , Wheelan Sarah J. , Hruban Ralph H. , Karchin Rachel , Bailey Matthew H. , Iacobuzio-Donahue Christine A. , Eshleman James R.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Metastatic cancer affects millions of people worldwide annually and is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Most patients with metastatic disease are not eligible for surgical resection, and current therapeutic regimens have varying success rates, some with 5-year survival rates below 5%. Here, we test the hypothesis that metastatic cancer can be genetically targeted by exploiting single base substitution mutations unique to individual cells that occur as part of normal aging prior to transformation. These mutations are targetable because ~10% of them form novel tumor-specific “NGG” protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) sites targetable by CRISPR-Cas9.

Methods

Whole genome sequencing was performed on five rapid autopsy cases of patient-matched primary tumor, normal and metastatic tissue from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma decedents. CRISPR-Cas9 PAM targets were determined by bioinformatic tumor-normal subtraction for each patient and verified in metastatic samples by high-depth capture-based sequencing.

Results

We found that 90% of PAM targets were maintained between primary carcinomas and metastases overall. We identified rules that predict PAM loss or retention, where PAMs located in heterozygous regions in the primary tumor can be lost in metastases (private LOH), but PAMs occurring in regions of loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in the primary tumor were universally conserved in metastases.

Conclusions

Regions of truncal LOH are strongly retained in the presence of genetic instability and, therefore, represent genetic vulnerabilities in pancreatic adenocarcinomas. A CRISPR-based gene therapy approach targeting these regions may be a novel way to genetically target metastatic cancer.
Determinants of healthcare insurance coverage among women of reproductive age in Tanzania: A multilevel mixed effect analysis
Authors: Kessy Sanun Ally , Tibenderana Jovin R. , Gimonge Jomo , Moshi Fabiola V.
Published: December 2024

Background

Health insurance has been one of the fundamental approaches of financing healthcare for sustainable Development goals (SDGs). There is a paucity of evidence on the determinants of healthcare insurance coverage among women of reproductive age in Tanzania, therefore this study aimed at assessing factors associated with access to health care insurance among women of reproductive age in Tanzania using national Demographic and health survey dataset.

Methodology

This study was an analytical cross-sectional study that utilized nationally representative secondary data sourced from the Tanzania Demographic and Health Surveys (TDHS) of 2022. A weighted sample of 15,254 women of reproductive age (15–49) was included in the study. A multilevel regression analysis was used to examine factors associated with health care insurance coverage. These results were presented using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval.

Results

In Tanzania the proportion of health insurance coverage among women of reproductive age was 5.8% whereby majority of women subscribing to employer’s insurance (3.9%). In the fixed effect model, older women (35–49) were more likely to be covered with health insurance compared those aged 15–24 (AOR = 2.75, 95% CI: 2.19, 3.45). Similarly, married women had higher likelihood of health insurance coverage compared to unmarried (AOR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.33, 1.92). Furthermore, educated women were more likely to be covered with health insurance than uneducated women (AOR = 6.96, 95% CI: 4.74, 10.22). Similarly, women who were exposed to mass media were more likely to be covered with health care insurance compared to unexposed (AOR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.14, 1.78), in the Random effect model Intra-Cluster Correlation (ICC) value in Model III was 0.27

Conclusion

The low health insurance coverage among Tanzanian women of reproductive age reveals significant gaps in healthcare access Socioeconomic factors, along with limited access to reliable health information, highlight the importance of comprehensive and inclusive strategies to increase healthcare coverage. By implementing multifaceted approaches that tackle these root causes, Tanzania can improve the health and well-being of its women, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more resilient society.
Comparative effectiveness of non-pharmacological therapies for postoperative cognitive dysfunction: Protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Kexin , Bao Qiongnan , Huang Jun , Sun Shanshan , Li Yaqin , Zhang Xinyue , Xia Manze , Chen Zhenghong , Yao Jin , Zhong Wanqi , Yin Zihan , Liang Fanrong
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common complication following surgery. Electroacupuncture (EA), manual acupuncture (MA), transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS), and cognitive training (CT) can effectively maintain or improve the postoperative cognitive function of patients. However, it remains unclear which therapy is the most effective. Therefore, this network meta-analysis aims to compare and rank the efficacy of these non-pharmacological therapies for POCD to identify the optimal therapy.

Methods and analysis

A systematic search will be conducted across seven databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, AMED, and PsycINFO) for articles published between January 2000 and November 2023. Two reviewers will independently conduct study selection and data extraction. The primary outcome will be the changes in the overall cognitive function before and after the intervention. The secondary outcome will be the incidence of POCD. The risk of bias will be assessed using the revised Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. Pairwise and Bayesian network meta-analyses will be performed using RevMan, STATA, and Aggregate Data Drug Information System statistical software. Additionally, the quality of evidence will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation guidelines.

Ethics and dissemination: The results will be disseminated to peer-reviewed journals or conferences.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023454028.
Accumulating the key proteomic signatures associated with delirium: Evidence from systematic review
Authors: Mosharaf Md Parvez , Alam Khorshed , Gow Jeff , Mahumud Rashidul Alam
Published: December 2024

Delirium is a severe neuropsychiatric illness that occurs frequently in intensive care and postoperative units which results in prolonged hospital stays and increases patient’s mortality and morbidity rates. This review focused on accumulating the common key proteomic signatures significantly associated with delirium. We carried out a systematic literature review of studies on delirium proteomic biomarkers published between 1st January 2000 and 31st December 2023 from the following electronic bibliographic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCOhost (CINAHL, Medline). A total of 1746 studies were identified and reviewed, and 78 studies were included in our review. The PRISMA guidelines, the PEO framework, and JBI quality assessment method were followed in this review to maintain the inclusion and exclusion criteria and risk of bias assessment. Most of the included studies were of the cohort (68%) and case-control (23%) design. We have accumulated a total of 313 proteins or gene encoded proteins of which 189 were unique. Among the unique proteins, we focused on the top 13 most investigated proteins (IL-6, CRP, IL-8, S100B, IL-10, TNF-a, IL-1b, Cortisol, MCP-1, GFAP, IGF-1, IL-1ra, and NFL) that are significantly associated with delirium. Most of these are cytokines and inflammatory proteins indicating a strong interconnection with delirium. There was remarkable inconsistency among the studies in reporting the specific potential proteomic biomarker. No single proteomic biomarker can be solely used to diagnose and predict delirium. The current review provides a rationale for further molecular investigation of delirium-related proteomic biomarkers. Also, it’s recommended to conduct further in-depth molecular research to decipher drug target biomolecules for potential prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic development against delirium.
An evaluation framework and comparative analysis of the widely used learning management systems
Authors: Abid Adnan , Tufail Abdullah Hassan , Ahmed Salem Osama Mohamed , A. Nawaz Naeem , Farooq Uzma , Abid Irfan , Ishaq Kashif
Published: December 2024

Learning Management System (LMS) is a major tool used in most universities and institutions for online/distance education purposes. A variety of LM systems are being used in different universities and institutions, and these LM systems are also updating their versions and patches to stay in the competition. Hence, the selection of an appropriate LMS is an important task as it is going to influence the academic proceedings of an academic institution. There are a few online comparison sheets available for different LMS, which have been scored based on online feedback, but those online comparisons lack a comprehensive features list for the comparison, and are unable to provide a generalized scoring function to compute the suitability score for an LMS. This article proposes a framework to evaluate an LMS based on a detailed list of features and functions. This evaluation is scored through a generalized scoring function that computes the quantitative score of LM systems. Lastly, some widely used open access and proprietary LM systems have been evaluated using the proposed framework and scoring function.
Unveiling immune cell response disparities in human primary cancer-associated fibroblasts between two- and three-dimensional cultures
Authors: Yang Jian-Ping , Kulkarni Nikhil Nitin , Yamaji Masashi , Shiraishi Tsubasa , Pham Thang , Do Han , Aiello Nicole , Shaw Michael , Nakamura Toshihiro , Abiru Akiko , Gavva Narender R. , Horman Shane R.
Published: December 2024

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play pivotal roles in solid tumor initiation, growth, and immune evasion. However, the optimal biomimetic modeling conditions remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the effects of 2D and 3D culturing conditions on human primary CAFs integrated into a modular tumor microenvironment (TME). Using single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNAseq) and Proteomics’ Proximity Extension Assays, we characterized CAF transcriptomic profiles and cytokine levels. Remarkably, when cultured in 2D, CAFs exhibited a myofibroblast (myCAF) subtype, whereas in 3D tumor spheroid cultures, CAFs displayed a more inflammatory (iCAF) pathological state. By integrating single-cell gene expression data with functional interrogations of critical TME-related processes [natural killer (NK)-mediated tumor killing, monocyte migration, and macrophage differentiation], we were able to reconcile form with function. In 3D TME spheroid models, CAFs enhance cancer cell growth and immunologically shield cells from NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity, in striking contrast with their 2D TME counterparts. Notably, 3D CAF-secreted proteins manifest a more immunosuppressive profile by enhancing monocyte transendothelial migration and differentiation into M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Our findings reveal a more immunosuppressive and clinically relevant desmoplastic TME model that can be employed in industrial drug discovery campaigns to expand the cellular target range of chemotherapeutics.
Impact of shock index (SI), modified SI, and age-derivative indices on acute heart failure prognosis; A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Vakhshoori Mehrbod , Bondariyan Niloofar , Sabouhi Sadeq , Shakarami Mehrnaz , Emami Sayed Ali , Nemati Sepehr , Tavakol Golchehreh , Yavari Behzad , Shafie Davood
Published: December 2024

Background

Heart failure (HF) is still associated with quite considerable mortality rates and usage of simple tools for prognosis is pivotal. We aimed to evaluate the effect of shock index (SI) and its derivatives (age SI (ASI), modified SI (MSI), and age MSI (AMSI)) on acute HF (AHF) clinical outcomes.

Methods

PubMed/Medline, Scopus and Web of science databases were screened with no time and language limitations till February 2024. We recruited relevant records assessed SI, ASI, MSI or AMSI with AHF clinical outcomes.

Results

Eight records were selected (age: 69.44±15.05 years). Mean SI in those records reported mortality (either in-hospital or long-term death) was 0.67 (95% confidence interval (CI):0.63–0.72)). In-hospital and follow-up mortality rates in seven(n = 12955) and three(n = 5253) enrolled records were 6.18% and 10.14% with mean SI of 0.68(95%CI:0.63–0.73) and 0.72(95%CI:0.62–0.81), respectively. Deceased versus survived patients had higher SI difference (0.30, 95%CI:0.06–0.53, P = 0.012). Increased SI was associated with higher chances of in-hospital death (odds ratio (OR): 1.93, 95%CI:1.30–2.85, P = 0.001).The optimal SI cut-off point was found to be 0.79 (sensitivity: 57.6%, specificity: 62.1%). In-hospital mortality based on ASI was 6.12% (mean ASI: 47.49, 95%CI: 44.73–50.25) and significant difference was found between death and alive subgroups (0.48, 95%CI:0.39–0.57, P<0.001). Also, ASI was found to be independent in-hospital mortality predictor (OR: 2.54, 95%CI:2.04–3.16, P<0.001)). The optimal ASI cut-off point was found to be 49.6 (sensitivity: 66.3%, specificity: 58.6%). In terms of MSI (mean: 0.93, 95%CI:0.88–0.98)), significant difference was found specified by death/survival status (0.34, 95%CI:0.05–0.63, P = 0.021). AMSI data synthesis was not possible due to presence of a single record.

Conclusions

SI, ASI, and MSI are practical available tools for AHF prognosis assessment in clinical settings to prioritize high risk patients.
Preliminary analyses of tryptophan, kynurenine, and the kynurenine: Tryptophan ratio in plasma, as potential biomarkers for systemic chlamydial infections in koalas
Authors: Chen Chien-Jung , Kimble Benjamin , Van Aggelen Astrid , Fischer Shalini , Flanagan Cheyne , Gillett Amber , Reed Jackie , Wakeman Jodie , Govendir Merran
Published: December 2024

Chlamydiosis is the major infectious disease responsible for significant morbidity and mortality in free-living koalas. Recently, it was reported that 28.5% of koalas infected with chlamydiosis were presented with no overt clinical signs. Identification and quantification of changes in plasma biomarkers’ fluctuations have the potential to enhance C. pecorum detection and facilitate the monitoring of therapeutic efficacy of antibiotics to treat this disease in koalas. Therefore, concentrations of the essential amino acid tryptophan, tryptophan’s metabolite kynurenine, and the kynurenine:tryptophan ratio were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography in the plasma of clinically normal koalas (n = 35), koalas identified with chlamydial disease (n = 35) and koalas that had other non-chlamydial co-morbidities (n = 10). Results showed that there was a significant difference between the clinically normal versus diseased, and clinically normal versus ‘other’ (both p < 0.001) in kynurenine plasma concentrations and kynurenine:tryptophan ratio; and also between the clinically normal and diseased in tryptophan plasma concentrations (p = 0.001). Proposed reference ranges of tryptophan, kynurenine, and kynurenine:tryptophan ratio in koalas are: 4.27–10.4 μg/mL, 0.34–1.23 μg/mL, and 0.05–0.22, respectively. Proposed optimal cut-off points to differentiate between clinically normal and diseased are: ≤ 4.75 μg/mL (tryptophan), ≥ 0.88 μg/mL (kynurenine), and ≥ 0.12 (kynurenine:tryptophan); and ≤ 7.67 μg/mL (tryptophan), ≥ 1.18 μg/mL (kynurenine), and ≥ 0.16 (kynurenine:tryptophan) to differentiate between released/recovered and euthanised of the diseased/‘other’ koalas. Significant differences in haematological and biochemical analytes were in the plasma globulins between the clinically normal and diseased koalas (p = 0.01), and in alkaline phosphatase between the clinically normal and ‘other’ koalas (p = 0.03). Although these potential biomarkers, especially tryptophan, may not be specific for detecting C. pecorum from the rest of the population, kynurenine and the kynurenine:tryptophan ratio may have a role in identifying unhealthy koalas from the clinically normal ones, irrespective of the underlying cause.
Effect of osteosarcopenia on feeding status in hospitalized patients with suspected dysphagia
Authors: Miyagi Midori , Sekiya Hideki , Ebihara Satoru
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Osteosarcopenia is a combination of sarcopenia and osteoporosis that increases mortality rates among older people compared with either alone. This study aimed to identify the contribution of osteosarcopenia to the development and severity of dysphagia.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of 211 patients aged ≥ 65 years who were referred to the dysphagia rehabilitation team. Based on Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) scores, we classified the patients with (FOIS scores 1–5) and without (FOIS scores 6, 7) dysphagia as Type A and those with (FOIS scores 1, 2) and without (FOIS score 3–7) enteral feeding as Type B. Based on chest computed tomography (CT) findings we then defined patients with T4 (MI) and pectoralis (PMI) muscle indexes, L1 attenuation, and T4MI, PMI, and L1 attenuation below the cutoff values as having sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and osteosarcopenia, respectively.

Results

The FOIS scores were significantly lower among patients with osteosarcopenia than among those without sarcopenia or osteoporosis. Moreover, PMI and FOIS scores significantly and positively correlated, and PMI was significantly lower in the group with, than without, enteral feeding. Osteoporosis and osteosarcopenia were significant in the patients who were fed enterally (p = 0.032 and 0.047, respectively).

Conclusions

Patients with sarcopenia and osteoporosis undergoing swallowing rehabilitation tended to have severe dysphagia that required much medical attention.
Identifying optimal substrate classes of membrane transporters
Authors: Denger Andreas , Helms Volkhard
Published: December 2024

Membrane transporters are responsible for moving a wide variety of molecules across biological membranes, making them integral to key biological pathways in all organisms. Identifying all membrane transporters within a (meta-)proteome, along with their specific substrates, provides important information for various research fields, including biotechnology, pharmacology, and metabolomics. Protein datasets are frequently annotated with thousands of molecular functions that form complex networks, often with partial or full redundancy and hierarchical relationships. This complexity, along with the low sample count for more specific functions, makes them unsuitable as classes for supervised learning methods, meaning that the creation of an optimal subset of annotations is required. However, selection of this subset requires extensive manual effort, along with knowledge about the biology behind the respective functions. Here, we present an automated pipeline to address this problem. Unlike previous approaches for reducing redundancy in GO datasets, we employ machine learning to identify a subset of functional annotations in a training dataset. Classes in the resulting predictive model meet four essential criteria: sufficient sample size for training predictive models, minimal redundancy, strong class separability, and relevance to substrate transport. Furthermore, we implemented a pipeline for creating training datasets of transmembrane transporters that cover a wide range of organisms, including plants, bacteria, mammals, and single-cell eukaryotes. For a dataset containing 98.1% of transporters from S. cerevisiae, the pipeline automatically reduced the number of functional annotations from 287 to 11 GO terms that could be classified with a median pairwise F1 score of 0.87±0.16. For a meta-organism dataset containing 96% of all transport proteins from S. cerevisiae, A. thaliana, E. coli and human, the number of classes was reduced from 695 to 49, with a median F1 score of 0.92±0.10 between pairs of GO terms. When lowering the percentage of covered proteins down to 67%, the pipeline found a subset of 30 GO terms with a median F1 score of 0.95±0.06.
Significant association between three atherosclerosis indexes and stroke risk
Authors: Wang Xin , Wu Lili , Shu Peng , Yu Wei , Yu Wangfang
Published: December 2024

Background

To evaluate the associations of three atherosclerosis indexes with stroke in a population aged 65 years and older.

Methods

A sample was obtained from wave 2011 to wave 2015 of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for stroke in the quartiles of three atherosclerosis indexes, and restricted cubic splines were constructed.

Results

Four hundred and fifty-four of the 21,913 eligible participants had stroke. After multivariate adjustments and with respect to the lowest quartiles, the ORs (95% CIs) of stroke in the highest quartiles of the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), the Castelli risk index I (CRI-I), and the Castelli risk index II (CRI-II) were 1.35 (0.99–1.83), 1.52 (1.13–2.06), and 1.40 (1.05–1.86), respectively. When assessed as a continuous exposure, per-unit increases in the AIP, CRI-I, and CRI-II were independently associated with a 49% (OR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.07–2.08), 6% (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02–1.11), and 14% (OR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.03–1.27) increase in the risk of stroke, respectively.

Conclusion

The three atherosclerosis indexes studied—the AIP, CRI-I, and CRI-II—were found to be predictors of stroke in a Chinese population.
Study protocol on the impact of postnatal maternal separation stress on dental enamel formation in a murine experimental model
Authors: de Sousa Júlia Ingryd Targino , Gonçalves Juliana de Lima , de Queiroz Alexandra Mussolino , de Carvalho Fabrício Kitazono , de Paula-Silva Francisco Wanderley Garcia
Published: December 2024

Dental development is a complex process influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Dental enamel, primarily composed of hydroxyapatite, is formed through complex cellular and biochemical mechanisms. Although this is a stable process, genetic, nutritional, and environmental factores can lead to developmental defects such as hypomineralization and hypoplasia. Molar incisor hypomineralization is a type of hypomineralization that represents a public health challenge. Its etiology is not yet fully understood, but factors such as hypoxia, medication exposure, adverse events in early childhood, and genetic influences are considered. This study protocol aims to investigate whether postnatal adverse events can impact amelogenesis, exploring the role of stress in the etiology of dental enamel defects. Specific objectives include evaluating enamel structure and mechanical properties by comparing the offspring of rats exposed to postnatal maternal separation with control animals (non-exposed). Additionally, we will evaluate weight, length, survival assessment, and developmental milestones between the groups. Macrophotographic analysis, microtomography, microhardness testing, and electron microscopy will enable a detailed assessment of enamel morphology and its mechanical properties. Histological and molecular analyses—such as immunohistochemistry, indirect immunofluorescence, and in situ zymography—will be performed to evaluate possible changes in proteins and enzymes that are essential for proper enamel biomineralization.
O MELODRAMA EM A SOMBRA DO PAI
Authors: Santos Roberval de Jesus Leone dos
Published: December 2024

Este artigo analisa o filme A sombra do pai (Gabriela Amaral Almeida, 2018) com base nos conceitos que a literatura vem construindo em torno do melodrama, para mostrar que a obra, ainda que conserve o gênero de horror e outros similares, é melodramática. Como resultado, a hipótese segundo a qual o cinema brasileiro permanece melodramático é reforçada.
A PRIMEIRA DÉCADA DE PRODUÇÃO ORIGINAL NETFLIX: FORMATOS DE FICÇÃO TELEVISIVA SERIADA EM CONTEXTOS TRANSNACIONAIS E TRANSCULTURAIS
Authors: Mungioli Maria Cristina Palma , Lemos Ligia Prezia , Penner Tomaz Affonso
Published: December 2024

O artigo discute o formato nos debates sobre produção, distribuição e circulação de produtos televisivos em serviços de streaming. Consideramos o momento atual, marcado por processos de globalização-localização de conteúdos, para debater a transnacionalização de formatos seriados. Analisamos o formato como conceito, tecnologia cultural e estratégia comercial a partir das produções originais Netflix disponíveis no catálogo brasileiro até 2023. Concluímos que os formatos são importantes componentes de internacionalização, mas questionamos se a ampla oferta de conteúdo de diferentes origens resulta necessariamente em maior diversidade de abordagens sociais, estéticas e geopolíticas, já que compreensão transcultural exige certa padronização.
ANÁLISE COMPARATIVA ENTRE MÉTODOS DE DIMENSIONAMENTO DE PAVIMENTO FLEXÍVEL. ESTUDO DE CASO: ESTRADA MUNICIPAL BOA ESPERANÇA EM CAMPINAS-SP
Authors: Ramos Paixão Rodrigo , De Oliveira Martins Diego , Massashi Kakuda Francis
Published: December 2024

O presente estudo tem o objetivo de realizar análises comparativas entre três métodos de dimensionamento de pavimento flexível, mostrando propostas econômica e ambientalmente mais viáveis, para implantação do pavimento da Estrada Municipal Boa Esperança, localizada no município de Campinas-SP. Serão consideradas as Normas Técnicas vigentes para os diferentes tipos de dimensionamento, na seleção dos materiais que irão compor as camadas das estruturas propostas e, além disso, na avaliação do potencial de uso de materiais naturais, misturas in situ e misturas usinadas. Foram realizados levantamentos de sondagens, coletas de amostras de solo, ensaios laboratoriais, análise geotécnica e estatística dos resultados dos ensaios, determinação do número N previsto para a via, dimensionamento das estruturas dos pavimentos, análise mecanicista, estimativa de custos para cada uma das estruturas e comparativo.
UMA UMA INTRODUÇÃO AO CONCEITO DE CIDADES INTELIGENTES:
Authors: Lucatelli Luis Gustavo , Carvalho Gabriel Gomes de , Ferreira Márcio Antonio , Jesus Silvia Cristina de
Published: December 2024

O conceito de cidades inteligentes tem se transformado ao longo do tempo, adaptando-se às necessidades de diversos atores e processos. Essa flexibilidade, embora enriquecedora, resulta em ambiguidades que dificultam a consolidação de uma base epistemológica sólida, além de favorecer a criação de políticas genéricas e descontextualizadas. O presente estudo, com base em uma revisão bibliográfica, investiga como diferentes agentes definem e estruturam o conceito de cidades inteligentes. Empresas de tecnologia e inovação tendem a associar o termo à implementação de soluções tecnológicas no ambiente urbano, enfatizando a automação e a eficiência. Por outro lado, autores e gestores com uma abordagem mais humanista defendem que essas tecnologias devem ser incorporadas dentro de estratégias amplas, com foco na melhoria da qualidade de vida urbana, inclusão social e sustentabilidade. A diversidade de interpretações gerada por esses diferentes pontos de vista resulta em classificações distorcidas e na simplificação das múltiplas dimensões que caracterizam as cidades inteligentes. Como consequência, muitos estudos e políticas focam apenas em indicadores específicos, negligenciando aspectos fundamentais como a governança participativa, o bem-estar social e a sustentabilidade ambiental. O artigo busca, assim, contribuir para uma compreensão mais integrada e crítica do conceito de cidade inteligente.
CITY-RESILIENCE FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE WATER-ENERGY-SANITATION NEXUS
Authors: DINIZ SANTIAGO CRISTINE , SOARES DE CASTRO MARCO AURÉLIO , COSTA GONÇALVES JULIANO , PUGLIESI ERICA , LOPES DA SILVA VALENCIO NORMA FELICIDADE
Published: December 2024

Urban challenges require integrative scientific knowledge, and multi-stakeholder approaches that account for local socio-ecological dynamics and interconnected urban systems. Sustainable urbanization and city resilience depend on multifunctional interventions and environmental integration to minimize impacts on human and natural systems. This article examines urban resilience through the Water-Energy-Sanitation (W-E-S) nexus, a transdisciplinary framework for addressing complex issues. Interactions among the W-E-S nexus often face desynchronized investments, profit-driven priorities, and compartmentalized management, leading to disconnected policies and increased risks. The case study of São Paulo’s Tietê River Basin, a vital area for water, energy, and sanitation services, highlights challenges like droughts, pollution, poor waste management, and reactive crisis responses, leading to recurring environmental and social issues which underscore the need for a comprehensive approach. Thus, the W-E-S nexus framework offers a pathway to more resilient urban systems through holistic and transdisciplinary planning.
Prestressed Cable-Net Systems Supporting Glass Facades. Numerical Analysis, Design And Robustness Of The System
Authors:   , Komlev Vitalii
Published: December 2024

The Thesis investigates the behaviour of planar prestressed cable-net glass facades through the analysis of finite element (FE) models, emphasizing their structural integrity under various conditions. Various models were considered, featuring different sizes of glass panes and total facade dimensions, alongside a detailed examination of their construction components, including prestressed cables, glass panes, glazing support attachments, and bolts. Using ANSYS 2021 R2 software, the models were validated against experimental data, confirming the accuracy of the numerical approach. The analysis covered aspects like mesh sensitivity, optimal mesh configurations for various facade elements, the impact of different prestressing levels and cable diameters on facade performance under wind loads. A significant part of the investigation focused on the effects of prestressing loss in cables, analysing several scenarios, where cables lost 33%, 66% or the full capacity of their initial prestressing force. In general, the research presents a comprehensive view of the structural behavior of prestressed cable-net glass facades, providing insights into optimal design practices, the implications of prestressing loss, and the resilience of such structures under varied conditions. The findings suggest that while cable-nets have considerable safety margins, careful consideration of cable prestressing and the potential for prestressing loss is crucial for ensuring the long-term performance and safety of glass facade systems.
Relações entre a concentração de terras e a escravidão contemporânea no Brasil
Authors: Santana Aurelane Alves , Campos Christiane Senhorinha Soares
Published: December 2024

O presente texto discute e apresenta as relações entre a concentração fundiária e o trabalho escravo contemporâneo no Brasil, trazendo para o debate algumas considerações sobre a produção de commodities e a escravização de trabalhadores no campo. Para tanto, como procedimento metodológico foram utilizados dados dos Censos Agropecuários (1985-2017) do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatísticas (IBGE) para a análise da concentração de terras no país, e dados da Comissão Pastoral da Terra (CPT) e do Observatório da Erradicação do Trabalho Escravo e do Tráfico de Pessoas na identificação da ocorrência de escravidão contemporânea em território nacional. Também, foram usadas notícias de sites que publicam e veiculam informações sobre os resgates feitos pelas equipes de fiscalização do Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego (MTE). Como recorte espacial de análise, damos destaque aos seis estados brasileiros que mais submetem trabalhadores ao trabalho escravo contemporâneo, são eles: Pará, Mato Grosso, Minas Gerais, Goiás, Maranhão e Bahia. Como resultado da discussão, evidenciou-se como a perpetuação histórica do modelo desigual de uso e apropriação da terra reflete a produção capitalista do/no espaço e se articula às formas de exploração do trabalho que são executadas pelo capital no espaço agrário. Isso inclui a incidência de relações laborais semelhantes à escravidão, intimamente ligadas à forma predatória da produção de commodities pelo agronegócio.
A penosidade dos trabalhos agrícolas das mulheres camponesas a partir da perspectiva da totalidade concreta
Authors: Gadelha Renata Rocha , Mello Nilvania Aparecida de
Published: December 2024

Este artigo apresenta resultados de uma pesquisa realizada em quatro municípios do Sudoeste do Paraná, com camponesas do Movimento de Mulheres Camponesas (MMC) e técnica de ATER agroecológica, com o objetivo de identificar elementos que levam à penosidade do trabalho agrícola das mulheres camponesas e formas de diminuí-la. Com isso, busca-se enfatizar que é preciso levar em consideração o tema da penosidade do trabalho agroecológico, para que possamos avançar em um projeto de soberania alimentar. A pesquisa foi realizada a partir de pesquisas bibliográficas, entrevistas semiestruradas, observação não participante. Estudos comprovam que a penosidade nos trabalhos agrícolas tem sido uma das principais causas de fenômenos como a falta de sucessão rural, aumento dos arrendamentos de terras e a diminuição da oferta de alimentos diversificados. Por outro lado, a penosidade do trabalho agrícola, não ocorre apenas devido à falta de máquinas/equipamentos, mas, pelo próprio esvaziamento do campo, fim das comunidades, desequilíbrios ecológicos e mudanças climáticas e, também, devido à falta de pesquisas e tecnologias, máquinas e equipamentos adaptados às realidades e necessidades regionais para facilitar o trabalho na produção, coleta, processamento etc. Sendo assim, este estudo enfatiza como a complexidade do problema investigado requer que sua análise seja feita a partir de uma perspectiva territorial e da totalidade concreta, apontando como as contribuições teóricas e metodológicas de Milton Santos podem ser frutíferas para avançarmos nessas discussões.
Relaciones vecinales, gentrificación y turistificación en barrios multiculturales centrales: reflexiones a partir de Russafa (Valencia) y Lavapiés (Madrid)
Authors: Torres Pérez Francisco , Gómez-Crespo Paloma
Published: December 2024

Este artículo aborda de forma comparativa las transformaciones de dos barrios multiculturales centrales, Russafa (Valencia) y Lavapiés (Madrid) en los últimos veinte años como consecuencia de los procesos de gentrificación y turistificación. Nuestros principales resultados muestran la diversidad de los procesos de gentrificación, más avanzado en el caso de Russafa y menor en el caso de Lavapiés, con resistencias diversas y una situación compleja donde se combinan vulnerabilidad, gentrificación y turistificación. En estos años se ha consolidado, no sin tensiones, una diversidad de relaciones vecinales en las que están integrados vecindario de origen extracomunitario y gentrificadores multiculturales que valoran el carácter diverso, popular y de convivialidad intensa de Russafa y Lavapiés. Ambos grupos forman parte del vecindario “legítimo” y el artículo avanza los factores que explican esta inclusión.
Community engagement as a liminal space of translanguaging
Authors: Thondhlana Mazvita , McKenna Sioux
Published: December 2024

Community engagement is, in many ways, a liminal space, in that, while it is a space of teaching and learning and sometimes of engaged research, it is neither fully academic nor ‘non-academic’. Liminal spaces can allow for upending of the hierarchies that are characteristic of more closely controlled educational settings. The participants in this study, all of whom participated in a community engagement project, known as the Engaged Citizen Programme, spoke extensively about the translanguaging affordances of liminal community engagement spaces. The data suggests that translanguaging, primarily of isiXhosa, Afrikaans, and English, was central to the community engagement activities. The participants indicated that the usual lines of linguistic privilege experienced in the university were upended in the community setting. The extent to which multilingualism is fostered in the community engagement space is an example of how lessons learned in community engagement could benefit teaching and learning in the classroom.
Conditions constraining the potential of Educational Development to impact on the transformation of teaching and learning
Authors: Boughey Chrissie
Published: December 2024

This paper argues that the field of Educational Development has not fulfilled its potential to contribute to the transformation of teaching and learning in South African universities because of conditions constraining the agency of practitioners. It draws on, and extends, previous work. It then draws on, and extends, previous work (Shay, 2012; Boughey, 2022) to identify these conditions using a framework drawn from Bhaskar’s (1978) critical realism and Archer’s (1995, 1996, 2000) critical realism.
African language-speaking plurilingual students’ writing in English: Shifting the focus from ‘error’ to ‘variation’
Authors: Mona Msakha
Published: December 2024

The study aims to address epistemological erasure by challenging the way students' knowledge is assessed in written assessments. The problem lies in assessment practices that do not consider the social and linguistic context of students' writing, particularly for plurilingual speakers of English. The study analysed a set of essays by plurilingual students to make sense of ways in which the students’ backgrounds found expression in their English writing. Using the decolonial concept of locus of enunciation, the study found that features considered "errors" in English essays are often influenced by students' plurilingual backgrounds. Thus, the study argues for a shift from framing plurilingual students’ writing as “error”, to “variation” which would be accommodated by a true translanguaging approach.
Preliminary evidence for the utility of a videogame as a behavioral measure of distress intolerance
Authors: Vargo Luke A. , Buckner Julia D. , Graham Reiko
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Withstanding negative affect is essential for healthy and adaptive psychological functioning. As such, failing to endure distress (i.e., distress intolerance) is associated with the etiology and maintenance of several psychological disorders and subclinical issues. Many behavioral measures of psychological distress intolerance exist; however, there are limitations to these measures (e.g., perceived loss of control over task performance) that have led some to call into question whether they measure distress intolerance or other related constructs. This study tests the utility of a computerized videogame as a novel behavioral measure of distress intolerance. The proposed task may address limitations of existing measures by presenting more ecologically valid goals and allowing participants greater control over their performance. Methods: A sample of undergraduates (N = 171; 70.8% female) completed a measure of self-report distress intolerance and played the videogame for a maximum of 30 minutes. State levels of affect were assessed at baseline and following the videogame. Results: This videogame increased negative affect and decreased positive affect, suggesting that it increased psychological distress. Further, our behavioral index of distress tolerance (number of setbacks experienced) was significantly related to selfreported distress tolerance. Discussion: Findings provide initial support for the validity of this task as a behavioral measure of distress intolerance.
A Preregistered Study on Israelis' Attitude Structure Following the October 7th Massacre and During the War in Gaza
Authors: Itzchakov Guy , DeMarree Kenneth G. , Reis Harry T.
Published: December 2024

The Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, was a national tragedy, and the war in Gaza that followed it changed the reality in the area. This distinctive setting allowed us to examine attitude structure in an uncertain existential context compared to previous studies conducted in relatively more mundane settings. We conducted a preregistered study (N = 565) in which we hypothesized that actual-desired attitude discrepancies and objective attitude ambivalence would both positively predict subjective attitude ambivalence and that actual and desired attitudes would independently predict congruent biases in information interest. We also predicted that Israelis' conservative political ideology would negatively predict objective attitude ambivalence, subjective attitude ambivalence, and actual-desired attitude discrepancy, and positively predict attitude certainty. The results supported nearly all of these hypotheses. Furthermore, we found evidence consistent with ideological projection. Participants' political ideology predicted the direction and strength with which they perceived political ideology change in the country.
Apresentação
Authors: Hoher Camargo Síglia Pimentel , Vieira Jarbas Santos
Published: December 2024

É com grande satisfação que apresentamos o número 52 da revista Cadernos de Educação. Neste último número de 2015, temáticas diversificadas no campo da Educação são abordadas em artigos nacionais e internacionais. Os temas incluem desde abordagens metaanalíticas na Educação Matemática, Educação Inclusiva, uso de tecnologias educacionais digitais e questões de gênero até a problematização de artefatos culturais utilizados na Educação Infantil.