bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a rapid antigen-based lateral flow assay for tick-borne spotted fever rickettsioses
Authors: Willson Richard , Zhao Yingxin , Brosamer Kristen , Pal Yogita , Blanton Lucas S. , Arroyave Esteban , Roach Carsen , Walker David H. , Kourentzi Katerina , Fang Rong
Published: January 2025

Tick-borne spotted fever rickettsioses (SFRs) continue to cause severe illness and death in otherwise-healthy individuals due to lack of a timely and reliable diagnostic laboratory test. We recently identified a diagnostic biomarker for SFRs, the putative N-acetylmuramoyl-l-alanine amidase RC0497. Here, we developed a prototype laboratory test that targets RC0497 for diagnosis of SFRs. The concentrations of RC0497 in sera of Rickettsia rickettsii-infected guinea pigs and R. conorii-infected mice were determined by stable isotope dilution–parallel reaction monitoring mass spectrometry (SID-PRM-MS), ranging from 0.1 to 1.1 ng/ml. Using europium chelate nanoparticle reporters, we developed a lateral flow assay (LFA) and evaluated the test with a panel of serum samples of mock and experimentally infected animals. Interestingly, 21 of 22 (95.5%) serum samples from R. rickettsii-infected guinea pigs and R. conorii-infected mice yielded positive results with a ratio of test line / control line greater than the cutoff value determined for non-infected animals. All uninfected samples were in agreement with the intended results, suggesting that the initially assessed specificity of the test is 100%, among these samples. Mice infected with a lethal dose of R. conorii and treated with doxycycline on day 3 post-infection (p.i.), upon RC0497 detection by LFA, displayed significantly decreased rickettsial loads, comparable to the sublethal infection group on day 5 p.i.. A panel of human serum samples spiked with various concentrations of recombinant RC0497 were analyzed by LFA, suggesting that the limit of detection of the LFA was 0.64 ng/mL. These findings suggest that the timely detection of RC0497 by a europium LFA offers guidance for treatment, leading to a significant improvement in infection outcomes. This work, for the first time, shows significant promise for a rapid and easy-to-use platform offering a timely diagnostic assay for severe SFRs.
Psilocybin-assisted massed cognitive processing therapy for chronic posttraumatic stress disorder: Protocol for an open-label pilot feasibility trial
Authors: Meshkat Shakila , J. Zeifman Richard , Stewart Kathleen , Janssen-Aguilar Reinhard , Lou Wendy , Jetly Rakesh , Monson Candice M. , Bhat Venkat
Published: January 2025

Background

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects 3.9% of the general population. While massed cognitive processing therapy (CPT) has demonstrated efficacy in treating chronic PTSD, a substantial proportion of patients still continue to meet PTSD criteria after treatment, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Preliminary evidence supports the potential therapeutic action of psilocybin to alleviate PTSD symptoms. This open-label pilot study aims to evaluate the feasibility, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of a single dose 25 mg psilocybin in combination with one week of massed CPT in patients with chronic PTSD.

Method

Fifteen participants with chronic PTSD will undergo 12 CPT sessions, two psilocybin-related psychotherapy sessions, and one psilocybin dosing session over a 7-days period. The primary outcomes are feasibility and tolerability, which will be measured by recruitment rates, withdrawal, data completion, adherence, number and nature of adverse events. Secondary objectives include assessing the preliminary efficacy of psilocybin-assisted CPT in reducing PTSD severity, self-reported treatment outcomes and exploring putative mechanisms of change. Participants will be monitored weekly for 12 weeks post-treatment and passive data relevant to mental health and well-being will be collected using a wearable device.

Discussion

This trial will generate important preliminary data on the use of psilocybin-assisted CPT for treating PTSD. The findings will guide the design of a multi-site, large-scale randomized control trial to more rigorously assess the efficacy of this intervention. De-identified data from this study will be available upon request after publication of the results. This study represents a promising and innovative approach to PTSD treatment, potentially offering an alternative therapeutic option for individuals unresponsive to conventional therapies.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06386003.
The impact of shelter-in-place during the COVID-19 pandemic on social support for mental health recovery: A prescribing-oriented qualitative study of patient perspectives
Authors: Song A. , Chao T. , Harris B. , Hsin H.
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented challenges for social connectivity and mental health, especially during mandated shelter-in-place periods. For patients engaged in mental health treatment, the social impact of their shelter-in-place experience remains an area of active investigation. This is particularly relevant in the context of social prescribing, a growing area of clinical intervention where healthcare providers actively refer patients to local social resources or activities to enhance mental health and wellbeing. Here, we investigated patient perspectives on their social supports during shelter-in-place, with an eye toward informing future social prescribing and counseling steps that mental health clinicians can take to foster social resiliency of patients. We conducted semi-structured phone interviews with 12 participants receiving mental health treatment at Kaiser Permanente San Jose Adult Psychiatry clinics. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed for themes. The sample consisted of 8 female and 4 male participants between the ages of 21 to 44, who received services including outpatient medication management, outpatient therapy, and/or outpatient group therapy. Analysis revealed two thematic categories that participants identified: (A) Specific ways that shelter-in-place impacted their social experience and (B) specific types of social relationships that participants felt were important to their mental health and wellbeing. In the first category, thematic factors that affected the social experience included (1) COVID-19-related health concerns, (2) participants’ baseline socialization patterns (degree of introversion/extroversion) and (3) the use of online and social media communication channels. For the second category of themes, specific functions of social relationships identified included those centered around (a) instrumental support, (b) emotional support, (c) community connection. Many relationships served more than one function during shelter-in-place, and many participants cited perceived community connection as a particularly important element in their mental health recovery. These themes highlight key contributors to the social experience of the shelter-in-place period for individuals in mental health recovery and inform future ways that clinicians can structure social prescribing practices to better assist the needs of patients.
Exploring the impact of grazing on fecal and soil microbiome dynamics in small ruminants in organic crop-livestock integration systems
Authors: Cheong Sejin , Aguirre-Siliezar Kimberly , Williams Sequoia R. , Gaudin Amélie C. M. , Pagliari Paulo , Jay-Russell Michele T. , Busch Roselle , Maga Elizabeth A. , Pires Alda F. A.
Published: January 2025

In integrated crop-livestock systems, livestock graze on cover crops and deposit raw manure onto fields to improve soil health and fertility. However, enteric pathogens shed by grazing animals may be associated with foodborne pathogen contamination of produce influenced by fecal-soil microbial interactions. We analyzed 300 fecal samples (148 from sheep and 152 from goats) and 415 soil samples (272 from California and 143 from Minnesota) to investigate the effects of grazing and the presence of non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) or generic E. coli (gEc) in fecal and soil microbiomes. We collected samples from field trials of three treatments (fallow, a cover crop without grazing (non-graze CC), and a cover crop with grazing (graze CC)) grazed by sheep or goats between 2020 and 2022. No significant differences in non-O157 STEC prevalence were found between pre- and post-grazing fecal samples in either sheep or goats. However, gEc was more prevalent in graze CC soils compared to fallow or non-graze CC soils. Alpha diversity was influenced by the species of grazing animals and the region, as sheep fecal samples and soil from the California trials had greater alpha diversity than goat fecal samples and soil from the Minnesota trials. Beta diversity in sheep fecal samples differed by the presence or absence of non-O157 STEC, while in goat fecal samples, it differed between pre- and post-grazing events. Actinobacteria was negatively associated with non-O157 STEC presence in sheep fecal samples and decreased in post-grazing goat fecal samples. Grazing did not significantly affect soil microbial diversity or composition, and no interaction was observed between post-grazing fecal samples and the graze CC soil. The results suggest that soil contamination by foodborne pathogens and microbiome dynamics in ICLS are influenced by grazing animal species and regional factors, with interactions between fecal and soil microbial communities having minimal impact.
Intersection between individual, household, environmental and system level factors in defining risk and resilience for children in Kenya’s ASAL: A qualitative study
Authors: Chongwo Esther Jebor , Aoko Barack , Kaniala Martha , Esala Moses , Magoma Phillis , Njoroge Eunice , Nyamanya Susan , Marangu Joyce , Khamis Anil , Ng’asike John , Huizink Anja C. , Abubakar Amina
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Children growing up in arid and semi-arid regions of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) face heightened risks, often resulting in poor developmental outcomes. In Kenya, the arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL) exhibit the lowest health and developmental indicators among children. Despite these risks, some children grow up successfully and overcome the challenges. However, there is limited comprehensive data on sources of risks and resilience in these children, particularly research that incorporates community perspectives and indigenous knowledge. Systematic documentation of factors influencing child outcomes is crucial for understanding the overall burden, informing policy and implementing targeted interventions. This study aimed at bridging this gap.

Methods

The study was conducted in 10 ASAL counties in Kenya. Purposive and snowballing techniques were used to recruit 11 key informants per site with varied levels of involvement in early childhood development and primary caregivers. Using a semi-structured interview guide, 103 telephonic interviews were conducted between June and August 2022, involving 68 key informants and 35 caregivers. Thematic approach was used to analyze the data, using NVIVO software.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 44years (SD = 11 years). The findings, viewed through the lens of Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, reveal a complex interplay of contextual factors impacting children’s development. These factors range from individual and biological aspects to family, community, systemic, and environmental level, including climatic challenges. Identified risk factors encompassed issues such as young caregiver’s age, low literacy, mental health issues, drug abuse, domestic violence, malnutrition, poverty, lack of paternal involvement, early marriages, female genital mutilation, drought, heat stress, and insecurity. Nonetheless, sources of resilience include breastfeeding, immunization, responsive caregiving, family and community support, higher socio-economic status (SES), cultural practices, self-motivation, hard work, community role models, religious activities and quality service provision.

Conclusion

Urgent attention is needed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by children in ASAL regions. The study underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of risks while harnessing community strengths and resources to safeguard and promote the holistic development of these children.
Exploring medical error taxonomies and human factors in simulation-based healthcare education
Authors: Skrisovska Tamara , Schwarz Daniel , Kosinova Martina , Stourac Petr
Published: January 2025

This study aims to provide an updated overview of medical error taxonomies by building on a robust review conducted in 2011. It seeks to identify the key characteristics of the most suitable taxonomy for use in high-fidelity simulation-based postgraduate courses in Critical Care. While many taxonomies are available, none seem to be explicitly designed for the unique context of healthcare simulation-based education, in which errors are regarded as essential learning opportunities. Rather than creating a new classification system, this study proposes integrating existing taxonomies to enhance their applicability in simulation training. Through data from surveys of participants and tutors in postgraduate simulation-based courses, this study provides an exploratory analysis of whether a generic or domain-specific taxonomy is more suitable for healthcare education. While a generic classification may cover a broad spectrum of errors, a domain-specific approach could be more relatable and practical for healthcare professionals in a given domain, potentially improving error-reporting rates. Seven strong links were identified in the reviewed classification systems. These correlations allowed the authors to propose various simulation training strategies to address the errors identified in both the classification systems. This approach focuses on error management and fostering a safety culture, aiming to reduce communication-related errors by introducing the principles of Crisis Resource Management, effective communication methods, and overall teamwork improvement. The gathered data contributes to a better understanding and training of the most prevalent medical errors, with significant correlations found between different medical error taxonomies, suggesting that addressing one can positively impact others. The study highlights the importance of simulation-based education in healthcare for error management and analysis.
Retrospective evaluation of a novel ultrasound-based imaging analysis software for predicting radiofrequency ablation areas
Authors: Sato Masaya , Tateishi Ryosuke , Zohar Yogev , Sato Jiro , Watadani Takeyuki , Moriyama Makoto , Wake Taijiro , Nakagomi Ryo , Kinoshita Mizuki Nishibatake , Nakatsuka Takuma , Minami Tatsuya , Uchino Koji , Enooku Kenichiro , Nakagawa Hayato , Asaoka Yoshinari , Yamada Ryo , Even Nitzan , Amitai Inbal , Abu Yossi , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to introduce and evaluate a novel software-based system, BioTrace, designed for real-time monitoring of thermal ablation tissue damage during image-guided radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

BioTrace utilizes a proprietary algorithm to analyze the temporo-spatial behavior of thermal gas bubble activity during ablation, as seen in conventional B-mode ultrasound imaging. Its predictive accuracy was assessed by comparing the ablation zones it predicted with those annotated by radiologists using contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) 24 hours post-treatment, considered the gold standard. The study included 20 liver tumors.

Results

The median tumor measurement along the major axis was 1.2 cm. The median Dice coefficient, Sensitivity, and Precision between BioTrace and CECT were 0.90, 0.91, and 0.91, respectively. The intraclass correlation showed excellent agreement in volume size between BioTrace and CECT findings (0.98).

Conclusion

BioTrace effectively generates an ablation damage prediction map based on real-time ultrasound imaging, accurately predicting the ablation zone as confirmed by 24-hour post-procedural CECT. This system has the potential to enhance the safety and efficacy of ablation procedures in clinical settings.
Richard Sennett on the user-friendly city and technology
Authors: Fraser Benjamin
Published: January 2025

This editorial for issue 11.2 of the Journal of Urban Cultural Studies follows from a reading of Richard Sennett’s book Building and Dwelling (2018), in which the urban thinker discusses the user-friendly city, among other topics. Following first The Craftsman (2008) and second Together (2012), Building and Dwelling is the third volume in his Homo Faber series, a reflection on the relationship between head and hand. Here Sennett’s remarks on user-friendliness and technology serve as a launching point for assessing what is at stake in the rise of generative artificial intelligence for long-form writing.
Rearticulating urban periphery: Collective action and creativity in Santiago neo-liberal city
Authors: Mundaca Gómez Cristian Alejandro
Published: January 2025

This study explores the role of ‘The Pobladores’ Carnival’ in Santiago, Chile, as a platform for collective action. The document investigates the historical and social role of the artistic-cultural practices in mobilizing urban poor settlers and their contribution to the transformation and negotiation of urban space. The research employs qualitative and ethnographic data from in-depth interviews, participant observation and documentary sources. It delves into the concept of ‘carnivalization’ and its interpretations, the historical development of carnival practices in Chile and the concept of ‘carnival politics’ in the local urban spaces. The article’s contribution to the field of urban cultural studies lies in its insights into the role of creativity and cultural practices in renegotiating urban inequality, rearticulating urban periphery actors and promoting the Right to the City.
Representações identitárias de professores de um curso de letras inglês em contexto de autoconfrontação
Authors: Bastos Rafael Lira Gomes
Published: January 2025

Inserido na comunidade de prática de uma Linguística Aplicada (LA) que pauta a relação entre linguagem e identidade, e considerando a importância de se discutir as identidades docentes para a proposição de políticas públicas de formação (continuada) de professores, o objetivo deste artigo é analisar as representações identitárias de três professores de um curso de Letras Inglês de uma universidade do interior do estado do Ceará projetadas em contexto de autoconfrontação. Para tanto, a pesquisa se vale do aporte teórico-metodológico da Análise Dialógica do Discurso em interface com a teoria das representações identitárias. Metodologicamente, utilizamos a autoconfrontação simples para mediar as interações entre pesquisador e professores e construir o corpus discursivo da pesquisa. Foram analisados três enunciados, considerando as representações identitárias projetadas de forma mais recorrente durante as interações. Na análise dos enunciados, consideramos as relações dialógicas entre as vozes sociais, ressaltando, para isso, sua materialidade linguístico-discursiva. Os resultados apontam para representações identitárias projetadas por vozes em tensão, nas tentativas de ajustamento entre o que foi feito - na aula - e o que foi dito sobre o que foi feito - na autoconfrontação simples. Nessa dinâmica, os professores se projetam como flexíveis, mediadores do conhecimento e conscientes de seu contexto, tensionando, ao mesmo tempo, com as representações identitárias de que o professor não pode ter dificuldade com a língua, da prática da língua como treino para a prova e da necessidade de falar em inglês durante toda a aula. Apontamos, portanto, que, por meio da discursivização da atividade realizada em contexto de autoconfrontação, é promovido o polo de tensão no qual as representações identitárias podem, potencialmente, ser transformadas e a atividade de ensino melhor compreendida. Os resultados aqui discutidos podem servir, inclusive, de reflexão para os cursos de formação inicial de futuros professores de inglês, porque apresentam o ponto de vista de professores formadores sobre sua própria atividade de ensino.
ANÁLISE ESPACIAL DOS INDICADORES EPIDEMIOLÓGICOS DE HANSENÍASE E DE SERVIÇOS DA ATENÇÃO PRIMÁRIA À SAÚDE BUCAL DO NORTE E NORDESTE DO BRASIL, 2012 A 2021
Authors: Morais Cirliane de Araújo , Maciel Jacques  Antonio Cavalcante , Farias Mariana Ramalho de , Silva Igor Iuco Castro da , Barros Myrna Maria Arcanjo Frota , Viana Yann Nobre
Published: January 2025

A hanseníase é uma Doença Tropical Negligenciada ocasionada pelo bacilo Mycobacterium leprae, este estudo objetivou analisar os indicadores epidemiológicos de hanseníase e de serviços da atenção primária à saúde bucal no Norte e Nordeste do Brasil. É um estudo quantitativo epidemiológico observacional ecológico. A variável dependente foi o coeficiente de detecção de casos novos de hanseníase, e as independentes foram determinantes sociais e indicadores de assistência à saúde bucal. Foi realizada uma análise espacial descritiva e uma de regressão utilizando softwares. Os resultados mostram que os estados Pará, Tocantins, Rondônia e Maranhão são hiperendêmicos. Na análise de regressão das variáveis sociodemográficas, no Norte foram cinco significativas, p<0,05, sendo: % da população que vive em domicílios com banheiro e água encanada, (IDHM), % de 25 anos ou mais de idade com ensino superior completo, % de ocupados de 18 anos ou mais que são trabalhadores por conta própria, e renda domiciliar per capita máxima do 10 quinto mais pobre. Já indicadores de saúde bucal, apenas a cobertura das equipes de saúde bucal e quantidade de equipes de saúde bucal foram significativas nas regiões. A hanseníase ainda é uma endemia nas regiões estudadas sendo necessário melhorar o acesso aos serviços de saúde.
Alfabetização de crianças autistas:
Authors: Pereira dos Santos Dayanna
Published: January 2025

Considerando a inclusão como um direito de todos aqueles que, ao longo da história, foram excluídos da sociedade e da escola, este artigo traz como objeto de estudo a alfabetização de crianças com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) diante do paradigma da inclusão escolar. O objetivo da pesquisa foi analisar as percepções de quatro professoras alfabetizadoras de escolas públicas do Município de Goiânia-Go acerca das características do autismo, da inclusão escolar e da alfabetização de crianças autistas. Do ponto de vista metodológico, adotou-se a abordagem qualitativa sob a ótica da teoria psicanalítica. Para análise dos dados das entrevistas semiestruturadas, foi realizada a transcrição e análise de conteúdo. Os resultados revelam que as professoras possuem conhecimento das características essenciais do TEA conforme definidas pelo DSM-V e reconhecem a importância da inclusão na rede regular de ensino. No entanto, também reconhecem deficiências em suas práticas educacionais e percebem uma formação insuficiente para a alfabetização de crianças autistas, o que resulta em insegurança e falta de preparo. Constatou-se que elas não se sentem aptas a alfabetizar crianças autistas devido à ausência de suporte pedagógico adequado na escola e à falta de formação teórico-prática sobre os processos de ensino e aprendizagem da leitura e escrita para esse público específico.
A PNA e a prática docente: reflexões sobre métodos e processos
Authors: Mendes Tiago Maria Aparecida , Magela Veloso Geisa
Published: January 2025

Este artigo tem por objetivo refletir sobre métodos de alfabetização adotados por professoras alfabetizadoras da rede municipal de Espinosa – MG, em diálogo com a cultura escolar e as proposições da Política Nacional de Alfabetização. A pesquisa teve como questão analítica: As práticas de alfabetização desenvolvidas por professoras de Espinosa incorporaram as orientações e saberes que estão propostos na Política Nacional de Alfabetização (PNA), dentre elas o uso do método fônico? Quais diálogos podem ser percebidos entre a PNA e a cultura escolar constituída nas práticas de ensino da leitura e da escrita pelas professoras alfabetizadoras? Para compreender as confluências entre a PNA, as concepções e práticas das alfabetizadoras utilizou-se o questionário e entrevista. Verificou-se que a prática docente está respaldada nas experiências em alfabetizar, que constituem a cultura escolar já anteriormente construída pelas professoras, em que adotam metodologias que remetem aos métodos tradicionais e ao letramento, não se constatando influência específica da PNA.
Alaíde Lisboa de Oliveira (1904-2006) e seus escritos sobre alfabetização, leitura e literatura infantil
Authors: Rocha Juliano Guerra , Maciel Francisca Izabel Pereira , Silva Sara Regina Botelho da
Published: January 2025

Alaíde Lisboa de Oliveira foi professora, escritora, jornalista e política com atuação expressiva no âmbito educacional em Minas Gerais, no século XX. A partir de sua biografia, este artigo busca analisar os ideários sobre alfabetização, leitura e literatura infantil por ela difundidos, tomando como objeto de estudo a sua obra “Da alfabetização ao gosto pela leitura”, publicada em 1991. O livro em questão é um compilado de aulas, palestras, artigos e entrevistas da autora, em que expôs suas concepções sobre: o ensino e a aprendizagem iniciais da leitura, o livro de literatura para uso escolar, bem como os critérios para escolha de textos literários dirigidos a crianças. Os resultados apontam que Alaíde Lisboa arquitetou e divulgou uma didática para o ensino da leitura, orientando os professores sobre procedimentos, técnicas e processos para promoção do que concebeu como “leitura mecânica” e “leitura semântica”, bases para constituição dos “hábitos de leitura” literária entre estudantes no ensino primário.
Programas de alfabetização de crianças no Brasil: um panorama de produções acadêmicas (2015-2020)
Authors: Barbosa de Sá Gonçalves Islayne , Da Silva Alexsandro
Published: January 2025

Neste artigo, apresentamos um panorama nacional de produções científicas sobre programas destinados à alfabetização de crianças. Inspirados nos estudos “estado da arte”, discutimos, por meio de um olhar analítico, investigações publicadas no Brasil, no período de 2015 a 2020. Procuramos traçar um perfil desses estudos, focalizando os programas investigados, os eixos/focos de análise, bem como os que revelam acerca dos processos de implantação, de atuação e de impacto dessas políticas educacionais. Por meio da análise das pesquisas, evidenciamos que distintos programas de alfabetização de crianças foram foco de análise das produções brasileiras, com maior destaque para o Pacto Nacional pela Alfabetização na Idade Certa – PNAIC (Brasil, 2012). Também foram diversos os eixos analíticos ao investigá-los, com predominância dos temas “práticas de ensino” e “formação continuada”. Constatamos, ainda, contribuições propiciadas pela implementação de programas, quando tais iniciativas aliavam a reflexão teórica à atividade profissional. Por outro lado, também se observou a necessidade de maiores reflexões sobre políticas educacionais que visavam mudanças nas práticas de alfabetização, por meio da introdução de rotinas rígidas e atividades pré-determinadas.
tarefa avaliativa de alfabetização de Miguel
Authors: Novaes Daniel , De Freitas Ana Paula , Moretto Milena
Published: January 2025

Este artigo tem como objetivo compreender o modo como Miguel, uma criança com autismo matriculada no segundo ano do Ensino Fundamental, realiza uma tarefa avaliativa de alfabetização. Este texto é fruto de uma pesquisa de doutorado realizada na educação básica, em uma escola da rede municipal de ensino da periferia de uma cidade a 60 km da capital do estado de São Paulo. O referencial teórico-metodológico da teoria histórico-cultural respaldou o trabalho empírico e as análises das situações escolares. Com vistas a um desenvolvimento humano prospectivo, esse referencial defende a fundamentalidade de olhar para as múltiplas determinações que constituem os fenômenos. As análises realizadas destacam dois movimentos: 1. a mediação da professora na tarefa proposta; 2. os modos de participação da criança na tarefa proposta. Ademais, o estudo dá indícios de que o modo como Miguel realiza avaliação traz marcas de tarefas que tendem à simplificação para passar o tempo.
Métodos de alfabetização utilizados com crianças com deficiência intelectual: uma pesquisa bibliográfica
Authors: Oliveira Santos Laís Alice , Oliveira Ana Paula Soares de
Published: January 2025

O objetivo deste estudo é reunir e identificar métodos e suas estratégias de alfabetização utilizados com alunos com deficiência intelectual (DI). Realizamos uma pesquisa bibliográfica nas bases de dados Periódicos Capes e Scielo sem estabelecer um recorte temporal, com a expectativa de angariar o maior número de pesquisas possível. No entanto, apenas seis estudos foram selecionados como aptos a compor nossa proposta. Os métodos de alfabetização identificados incluem abordagens sintéticas, como Abacada, Fonovisuoarticulatória e Fônico, que são eficazes na técnica de leitura e escrita, mas tratam os sujeitos com DI como passivos e focam em processos de repetição. Em contraste, métodos baseados nas perspectivas Construtivista, Histórico-Cultural e Linguística consideram a criança como um sujeito ativo, inserido em contextos sociais e culturais que influenciam seu aprendizado. Esses métodos vão além da técnica, incorporando práticas de letramento significativas, como o uso de comunicação alternativa e a construção de textos. Este estudo é fundamental para refletir sobre os métodos de alfabetização e suas implicações na concepção do sujeito com DI, destacando a necessidade de uma educação inclusiva que considere os sujeitos como seres sociais, diversos e ativos em seu processo de aprendizagem.
Virulence factors of agents of particularly dangerous mycoses
Authors: Polovetz N , Murugova A , Lipnitsky A
Published: January 2025

This review aims to summarize current information on the virulence of dimorphic fungi, causative agents of invasive mycoses (coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, paracoccidioidomycosis). These fungi naturally occur as mycelial saprophytes. Following inhalation, body temperature triggers the mechanism of conidia (spores) and mycelial fragment differentiation into a parasitic yeast phase. This morphologic switch leads to the expression of virulence factors, which enable adhesion of the fungi to host tissues, growth and proliferation in macrophages, cytokine response modulation and decrease the effectiveness of cellular immunity. Virulence factors of dimorphic pathogenic fungi are defined as essential for their survival and development in a mammalian host, but not in their natural environment or in vitro. The identification of genes associated with virulence factors is primarily carried out using molecular techniques. The discovery and characterization of virulence factors drive the development of new diagnostic methods, antifungal drugs and experimental vaccines for invasive mycoses.
Immune response in primary fungal infection
Authors: Murugova A , Lipnitsky A , Polovets N
Published: January 2025

Invasive mycoses are a group of extremely dangerous fungal diseases caused by dimorphic fungi such as Coccidioides, Histoplasma, Blastomyces, Paracoccidioides. These primary pathogens possess the potential to infect immunocompetent hosts and act as opportunistic microorganisms in immunocompromised patients. Dimorphic pathogens are endemic to the Western hemisphere, with the majority of humans in highly endemic areas infected by these organisms. Innate immunity is a key to resistance formation before the antigen-specific (adaptive) immune response is activated. Thus, people with T-cell deficiency frequently develop severe conditions and potentially lethal outcomes. Receptors on the surface of the host immune cells interact with primary fungal pathogens. Th1 and Th17 immune response mechanisms are associated with recruting and activating neutrophils and macrophages to the site of infection as well as production of chemokines and pro-inflammatory cytokines. This review is focused on the interaction of primary pathogenic fungi with the human innate and adaptive immune system and considers the problem of immunoprophylaxis of invasive mycoses.
Antifungal resistance of dermatophytes and pitfalls in treatment of superficial mycoses
Authors: Sergeev A
Published: January 2025

Treatment of dermatomycoses has faced numerous challenges as of late, one of the key reasons for which being the emerging resistance of pathogenic fungi to antifungal drugs. A vivid variety of resistance mechanisms found in dermatophytes has rendered certain methods to determine clinically significant resistance unreliable. Epidemiological studies conducted in India and other countries over the recent years suggest a possible etiological change in several forms of dermatophyte infections, as well as a global spread of resistant ‘mutant’ strains. Shared experience of foreign researchers allows for a proposition of novel measures aimed to combat persistent dermatophyte infection. The measures in question include limited use of topical corticosteroids and introduction of combination antifungal treatment, comprising antifungals with fungicidal potential and anti-inflammatory properties, such as naftifine.
Innate and trained immunity in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Morozova O , Ospelnikova T
Published: January 2025

Despite the evolutionarily ancient mechanisms of recognition of "own" and "foreign" materials, positive and negative selection of lymphocytes against the own biomolecules and mother's antigens in utero, disturbance of cytokine production with immunological memory about previous exogenous and endogenous stimuli can cause autoimmune pathologies. Our goal was to analyze cytokines in human autoimmune diseases. Systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases are characterized by elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines. Repeated stimulations of innate immunity receptors with exogenous and endogenous ligands cause fast and enhanced expression of cytokine genes. Nonspecific trained innate immunity can lead to disruption of immunological tolerance to autoantigens due to the accidental coincidence of spatial conformations of ligands for innate immunity receptors. Long-term treatment of autoimmune multiple sclerosis with interferon could induce binding and neutralizing antibodies, which leads to resistance and the need for a therapy change.
Quantitative estimation and phytochemical profiling of different extracts of Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) peel waste by GC-MS technique
Authors: Khati Arti , Yadav Rajesh
Published: January 2025

The plant species Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam., commonly called Jackfruit, belongs to the Moraceae family. It is typically abundant in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. Extensive research has revealed the presence of numerous beneficial compounds within jackfruit, which have demonstrated its potential in the treatment of various diseases. One environmental issue associated with the disposal of unused components of fruits, such as peels, perianths, rinds and outer cores, is the increasing accumulation of bio-waste. Using bioactive constituents found in fruit peels, typically regarded as waste material, offers numerous advantages for human consumption and exhibits potential as effective antimicrobial agents in agriculture. The present study is an attempt to gain complete knowledge of the phytochemical constituents such as flavonoids, polyphenolics, tannins, saponins, carbohydrates, reducing sugars and antioxidants found in the peels of jackfruit.
Comparison of the effectiveness of nurse-led preoperative counseling and postoperative follow-up care vs standard care for patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Wenwen , Zhu Yan , Sun Yu , Li Yandong
Published: January 2025

Background

Radical gastrectomy is generally prefered for gastric cancer but has postoperative complications. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the effectiveness of three different models of preoperative counseling and postoperative follow-up care in patients who underwent radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer.

Methods

In retrospective medical record analyses, patients received nurse-led preoperative counseling and postoperative follow-up care (NC cohort, n = 105) or surgeon-led preoperative counseling and surgeon-led follow-up (SC cohort, n = 140), or did not receive counseling and aftercare (RC cohort, n = 160).

Results

Patients had a postoperative intensive care unit (PICU) stay of 24 (26–22) h/patient and postoperative pain of 6 (6–5)/ patient. The frequencies of nausea, vomiting, medical intensive care unit admission(s), dizziness, length of PICU stay, and intensity of postoperative pain were lower among patients in the NC cohort, followed by those in the SC and RC cohorts. A higher number of patients in the RC cohort died when compared to the NC (25 [16%) vs 2 [2%], p = 0.0458) and the SC (25 [16%] vs 11 [8%], p = 0.0001) cohorts in follow-up.

Conclusion

Patients who undergo radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer require healthcare professional-led preoperative counseling and postoperative aftercare. Nurse-led preoperative counseling and postoperative aftercare, could improve outcome measures in patients who underwent radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer.
Arenobufagin suppresses the progression of early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting EpCAM-mediated tumor stemness
Authors: Deng Lijuan , Zou Lifang , Zhou Chunhong , Yang Fuqin , Ouyang Fen , Zhu Yingru , Cao Huihui , Hu Min , Zhang Xiaoshen , Liu Junshan
Published: January 2025

Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is a biomarker for epithelial cell-derived tumors. However, the specific role of EpCAM itself in early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma progression remains unclear, and small molecules targeting EpCAM have not yet been reported. Here, the protein expression profile of EpCAM in tumor-adjacent regions was found to be higher than that in tumor regions, and to be positively associated with the progression of early-stage liver cancer, as well as high frequency of recurrence, cirrhosis, lymph node metastasis, microvascular invasion and cancer stemness, in 68 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In vitro, EpCAM enhanced cancer cell stemness, as reflected by increased abilities of proliferation, self-renewal, migration and invasion, which was counteracted by arenobufagin. Furthermore, arenobufagin inhibited the viability of Hep3B and Huh7 cells with IC50 values of 36.4 nM and 123.4 nM after 72 h of treatment, respectively. Molecular docking data further indicated that arenobufagin binds EpCAM. Moreover, arenobufagin inhibited early progression of HCC through EpCAM in a zebrafish xenograft tumor model mimicking early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma without blood vessels in vivo. This study supports a tumor-promoting role of EpCAM in early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma by facilitating cancer stemness and suggests that arenobufagin might be promising candidate for EpCAM inhibition.
Serum Extracellular Vesicle-derived microRNA Profiles in Patients with ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Chen Weikun , Zhang Yeshen , Dai Yining , Kong Siyu , Liu Haobin , He Yu , Tan Ning , Liu Yuanhui
Published: January 2025

Objective: In this study, we sought to determine the potential of extracellular vesicle (EV) microRNAs (miRNAs) to serve as early diagnostic biomarkers for AMI.

Method: Peripheral blood samples were collected from three patients with AMI and three healthy individuals, and serum EV total RNA was extracted. The miRNA differential expression profiles of serum EVs were obtained through next-generation sequencing combined with bioinformatics analysis.

Results: In patients with AMI, compared with controls without AMI, 15 differentially expressed miRNAs (11 upregulated and 4 downregulated) were identified. GO analysis predicted 842 target genes. Enrichment analysis revealed 639 genes involved in biological processes, 592 genes involved in molecular function, and 692 genes involved in cellular components. KEGG analysis indicated that the protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum pathway, P53 pathway, and mRNA surveillance signaling pathway significantly correlated with AMI. PPI network analysis indicated that 842 target proteins and 10 hub genes were significantly associated with the miRNAs.

Conclusion: We identified 15 significantly differentially expressed miRNAs in AMI, whose target genes significantly correlated with protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum pathway and the P53 pathway. Our results provide a reference for use of EV miRNAs as early diagnostic biomarkers in patients with AMI.
Corruption, Exchange Rates, and Migration Flows
Authors: Agiomirgianakis George , Bertsatos Georgios , Sfakianakis George
Published: January 2025

It is often argued that immigration flows depend positively upon the GDP (a migratory pull factor) and negatively upon the exchange rate depreciations (a migratory push factor) in the destination country. However, we show that both effects depend crucially on the corruption level, and, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the impact of migration’s determinants depends on the level of corruption and therefore, migratory flows are found to be corruption dependent. In fact, we show that high corruption in the destination country could lead to a decoupling of the net migration flows from both effects (GDP and PPP exchange rate). The policy implications of our findings suggest that corruption, and its interactions with other migration factors, should in principle be examined in migration studies. We employ net migration flows, defined as immigrants minus emigrants, for the case of Greece as destination country where migration-flows direction has changed sign two times in the post-war era. The data are obtained from the World Bank. Our findings remain robust [1] to a series of alternative specifications with the world governance indicators (WGIs) and, [2] to the use of several estimators.
Mamíferos de La Chiripa, Zona Protectora El Chayote, Costa Rica
Authors: Elizondo Retana Mario , Cartín-Núñez Melvin
Published: January 2025

Introducción: la finca La Chiripa  forma parte de la Zona Protectora el Chayote (ZPC) ubicada en la región central de Costa Rica. En el lugar predominan las zonas de vida: bosque muy húmedo montano bajo y bosque pluvial montano bajo. Además, limita con el corredor biológico Paso de las Nubes, donde se ubican otras áreas silvestres protegidas con alta riqueza biológica como lo son: Parque Nacional Juan Castro Blanco, el Parque Nacional Volcán Poás, la Zona Protectora Río Toro y la Reserva Biológica Alberto Manuel Brenes. A pesar de esta condición, en la zona no existen estudios científicos respalden su importancia. Objetivo: inventariar las especies de mamíferos silvestres de talla mediana o grande (≥500 g), residentes en la Finca Municipal la Chiripa, ubicada en la Zona Protectora el Chayote. Materiales y métodos: Se hicieron recorridos semanales a pie por diferentes transectos dentro del área de estudio y se colocaron 3 cámaras trampa marca Bestok ® de 12 megapíxeles de alta definición durante un período de 5 meses en lugares donde se observó indicios el paso de mamíferos silvestres. Resultados: Se registraron 13 especies de mamíferos pertenecientes a 9 familias diferentes, donde se incluyen especies en peligro de extinción incluyendo: el manigordo (Leopardus pardalis), el caucel (Leopardus wiedii), el puma (Puma concolor) y el yaguarundi (Puma yagouaroundi). También se logró evidenciar el aumento de actividades invasivas como el ingreso de motocicletas en el área silvestre protegida, lo cual repercutió en la disminución de avistamientos en el sitio, además del deterioro grave causado en los senderos de la finca a causa de esta actividad ilegal.
Impact of in situ gamma irradiation simulates on UO2: Set-up flow-through corrosion experiments
Authors: Rodríguez-Villagra Nieves , Bonales Laura J. , Cobos Joaquín , Galán Hitos
Published: January 2025

To assess the effect of external γ-radiation on the dissolution of the spent UO2 fuel matrix, dynamic dissolution experiments were performed with UO2 pellets using well-controlled flow-through reactor at different low flowrates under oxic conditions. Firstly, the setup was validated without radiation at different leachant compositions (I = 0.02 mol·L−1 of ionic strength and pH from 5.4 to 12.2), flowrates (from ~ 4.5 mL·d−1 to 120 mL·d−1), and residence times (11.3–383 h) at room conditions. A good agreement of data trends (U concentration vs flowrates) is obtained. The results show the impact of the flowrates and carbonates on the dissolution rate of U, i.e., the concentration of dissolved U(VI) increased with increasing [HCO3
−]. For the experiment under external γ-radiation (0.014 kGy·h−1) with UO2 in 20-mmol·L−1 NaClO4, the presence of studtite was confirmed and consistent with the measured H2O2 concentrations (~ 10–5 mol L−1).

Graphical abstract
Investigation of Quadrature Couplers on Concentrated LC-elements
Authors:   Ural Federal University named after first President of Russia B.N. Yeltsin, Letavin D. A. , Gusev B. V. ,   Freelance scientist, Knyazev S. T. ,   Ural Federal University named after first President of Russia B.N. Yeltsin
Published: January 2025

The article demonstrates how the choice of the filter approximation type affects the frequency characteristics of a directional coupler in which they are installed instead of quarter-wavelength sections for its miniaturization. The paper presents the results of modeling T-shaped and П-shaped low-pass filters (LPF) using the QucsStudio package. Various characteristics of coupler are investigated, including reflection and transmission coefficients, as well as the phase difference between the signals. The authors come to the conclusion that П-shaped circuits should be used to reduce the size of the device and a higher filter order to ensure a wider operating frequency band for the creation of compact directional couplers. The best option is a T-shaped Chebyshev fifth-order LPF with the reflection coefficient |S11| = 5 %.
Growth and metabolic functions of Schizolobium amazonicum subjected to nickel doses
Authors: Souza L. D. , Tavares-Drago C. , Rosa B. N. M. S. , Teixeira J. P. , Silva T. M. , Gonçalves L. F. , Silva L. R. , Ribeiro V. K. C. , Oliveira T. J. M. , Nascimento V. R. , Brito A. E. A. , Nogueira G. A. S. , Oliveira-Neto C. F.
Published: January 2025

Abstract Anthropic activities such as industries, agriculture and mining has generated public concern for its numerous irregular disposals of its waste, the incorrect deposition of heavy metals such as nickel (Ni) has caused the degradation and contamination of groundwater and water. Studies that point out cheap and efficient solutions have been an obstacle to the advancement of solutions for degraded area recovery programs. For this, a vegetable home experiment was developed, with an entirely randomized design with 5 treatments being a control (no metal) and 4 nickel concentrations (200 μM/L; 400 μM/L; 600 μM/L and 800 μM/L) with 6 repetitions. The variables analyzed were growth and biochemical activity. Plant height and diameter were not affected by increasing nickel concentrations and this response was due to the low leaf and leaflet production capacity of the species under these conditions, consequently reducing biomass production. Metabolic parameters such as sucrose, carbohydrates, proline and glycine increase under stressful conditions, which does not occur for nutritional configurations that decrease with increasing nickel stress.