bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate Governance In The U.S. Private Capital Markets
Authors: Lyra Zora
Published: November 2024

The corporate governance of any given company evolves over time and is affected by several factors, including its industry, place of incorporation, types of shareholders, whether it has gone public, and market standards. This paper aimed to identify patterns in the corporate governance of private software companies during the period in which they received investments from venture capitalists through a comparison of the content of their certificates of incorporation. The author also analyzed the clauses of a model certificate of incorporation provided by the National Venture Capital Association - NVCA and assessed whether a selected sample of companies followed the NVCA’s model and recommendations in terms of best practices of corporate governance.
Pasolini, cinema e educação:
Authors: Barreto Dias João Paulo , Scareli Giovana
Published: November 2024

O artigo apresenta uma discussão sobre cinema e educação a partir da análise de filmes de Pier Paolo Pasolini e desenvolve a ideia de uma pedagogia corsária para a invenção de dispositivos (Foucault, 1999) fílmicos que podem ser trabalhados por educadores em diferentes contextos. Os objetivos foram aproximar o cinema da educação e refletir sobre uma possível pedagogia corsária (Pasolini, 2020) a partir da ideia de que o cinema pode ser entendido como um ato subversivo de criação, síncope de imagem em movimento e som e forma expressiva de arte que ludibria as pedagogias que territorializam o saber. A metodologia da pesquisa é basicamente bibliográfica, fazendo uma cartografia (Costa, 2014; Barros, Barros, 2014) dos filmes que são assistidos e decupados, parcialmente, para exame pormenorizado. Inspirados, principalmente, pela obra de Pasolini e outros autores que, em alguma medida, foram afetados pelas cintilações dos vaga-lumes pasoliniano, como Didi-Huberman (2011), acreditamos que o cinema se aproxima da educação por meio de uma pedagogia de pilhagens inventivas, que burla as formas padronizadoras de mundos ao reconhecerem as potências artísticas e políticas desses indivíduos luminescentes que se apoiam na linguagem fílmica como forma de expressão e que constroem um conhecimento sensível.
O conflito geracional e o uso de metodologias ativas no ensino de matemática
Authors: Souza Lana Priscila , Silveira Jucá Sandro César
Published: November 2024

Um dos desafios para incorporar as metodologias ativas (MA) em sala de aula pode estar relacionado à disparidade geracional entre professores e alunos, pois, a depender da geração que os recebe, alguns métodos de ensino podem já não ser tão viáveis. Tendo por base esse pensamento, o artigo tem o objetivo de analisar as diferenças geracionais entre docentes em Matemática e seus alunos e a forma com que elas impactam a rotina de sala, o planejamento das aulas e o uso de MA. A pesquisa, de natureza aplicada, foi realizada por meio de um questionário. O público alvo é composto por um grupo de 10 professores. Pôde-se observar que metade dos participantes pertencem à geração Y ou Millennials (nascidos entre 1981 e 1996) e fazem parte de uma geração em que fatores como formação educacional e experiências profissionais também desempenham um papel na aceitação e adoção de MA. Os demais participantes pertencem às gerações X ou Z. Como resultado da pesquisa constatou-se, ainda, que a maioria dos partícipes faz uso das tecnologias em suas aulas e percebem diferenças na familiaridade e uso das mesmas por eles e seus alunos. É importante acrescentar que a maioria dos professores pesquisados adota em suas aulas uma abordagem híbrida, combinando metodologias tradicionais e ativas, o que indica certa flexibilidade pedagógica. Isso posto, espera-se que o referido trabalho de pesquisa propicie considerações sobre o tema e que os resultados possibilitem debates sobre conflito geracional e inserção de MA e tecnologias digitais em sala de aula.
Aprender a ensinar:
Authors: Valadares Laura , Portela Moreira Laélia
Published: November 2024

Neste artigo são apresentados os resultados de uma pesquisa na qual se buscou compreender como professores aprendem a ensinar, a partir da ótica de três professores iniciantes, três experientes e três aposentados. Teoricamente fundamenta-se na contribuição de Garcia, Feiman-Nemser e Huberman, que apresentam, no conjunto, relevantes contribuições sobre as diferentes fases e desafios da docência. Foram realizadas nove entrevistas narrativas, cujo conteúdo foi tratado de acordo com as recomendações de Bardin. Os resultados mostraram que, para os participantes da pesquisa, “tornar-se professor” é uma construção que necessita da teoria e que encontra na prática e nas relações com os alunos, com os pares, e outros atores da escola, seu principal espaço de formação.
Corpo-mulher amazônida
Authors: Oliveira Caroline Barroncas de , De Oliveira Costa Mônica , Silva Aikawa Monica
Published: November 2024

Esse ensaio objetiva problematizar a existência da mulher e pesquisadora, reafirmando a existência duma multiplicidade de vidas no grupo de estudo e pesquisa Vidar In-tensões, na perspectiva da Filosofia da diferença. Como escrever um corpo-mulher amazônida que pesquisa alinhada à diferença? De que modos se escrever enquanto corpo-mulher pesquisadora que escapa às posições e coordenadas localizáveis? Beleza e delicadeza compõem um feminino instituído num tempo disciplinar em que este corpo segue preso no interior de poderes, limitações, proibições e obrigações. Esses elementos ainda não se encerraram para a mulher e se instalam na sociedade como modo de fabricação da imagem do feminino sensualizado, objetificado, subvalorizado, docilizado e recatado. Suspeitamos dessas verdades e nos posicionamos como mulheres-pesquisadoras no viés do Devir da Filosofia da diferença, enquanto filosofia da multiplicidade e construção incessante que assume uma fluidez provocativa à invenção de conceitos. O texto articula-se à ferramenta da escrita de si foucaultiana, ao assumir o escrever-se enquanto criação de si, multiplicação de formas de vida de mulheres amazônidas que pesquisam nas fronteiras da diferença. Rodamos nossas próprias vidas com o grupo Vidar In-tensões, em atos de si consigo e com outros(as), em fugas dos instituintes do que podemos e devemos ser. Neste, mobilizamo-nos em processos formativos docentes por entrevias menores, clandestinidades, nomadismos, geramos pesquisas femininas desimportantes, desinteressantes, desqualificadas para homens doutos e dialogamos, acontecemos, encontramo-nos no (re)existir na universidade enquanto mulheres-pesquisadoras na Filosofia da diferença. Seguimos como brecha nos espaços mais fechados, num devir-mulher em transformação de si em zona de vizinhança.
Redes de ensino e desigualdades sociais no Pará:
Authors: Andrade da Silva Vergas Vitória , Ribeiro Gustavo  César de Macêdo
Published: November 2024

O artigo discute as disparidades intrínsecas à dualidade escola pública-privada no estado do Pará. Com base no arcabouço teórico segundo o qual as instituições de ensino são o domínio por excelência da reprodução e legitimação das desigualdades, este trabalho pretende responder à seguinte problematização: qual o papel das redes de ensino paraenses na reprodução da estrutura social? Para dar conta desta questão, o estudo tem como objetivo analisar os dados socioeconômicos do Exame Nacional do Ensino Médio (ENEM), averiguando as assimetrias entre escolas pública e privada no Pará. Mais especificamente, o estudo compara as redes de ensino com base em estatísticas referentes à renda, aos níveis educacionais e à ocupação dos pais de estudantes inscritos no ENEM 2020. Os resultados revelam que a renda familiar concentrada em faixas altas, os níveis de escolaridade mais elevados e as ocupações mais prestigiosas aparecem com maior incidência entre as famílias de estudantes de escolas privadas. Essas evidências chamam a atenção porque relembram a potência dos condicionamentos sociais e destacam as funções reprodutoras do sistema de ensino no estado do Pará. O artigo conclui que a dualidade escola pública-privada pode acarretar uma série de vantagens e desvantagens de origem social, desvendando o vínculo dissimulado que as redes de ensino mantêm com a estrutura das relações entre as classes.
A educação das relações étnico-raciais no referencial curricular da área de ciências da natureza
Authors: Anacleto Basílio Thamiris , Gonçalves França Marileide
Published: November 2024

A Lei n° 10.639/03, articulada ao ensino da área de Ciências da Natureza, possibilita o reconhecimento, a valorização da diversidade cultural e as contribuições africanas para o desenvolvimento científico. Neste estudo, objetiva-se identificar e analisar se e como a Lei nº 10.639/03 está prevista no referencial curricular estadual e no conteúdo programático da área de Ciências da Natureza, na tentativa de compreender seus objetivos, suas concepções e as diretrizes referentes ao ensino na área de Ciências da Natureza na perspectiva da Educação das Relações Étnico-Raciais. Esta pesquisa se caracteriza como sendo qualitativa, do tipo documental. Para tanto, analisa-se o currículo da Secretaria da Educação do estado e o conteúdo programático da área de Ciências da Natureza, na tentativa de identificar se a temática da Educação das Relações Étnico-Raciais está contemplada nesses documentos orientativos. Para a análise dos dados, aplica-se a análise de conteúdo, a partir da qual observa-se que a Lei n° 10.639/03 não aparece de forma direta no currículo da Secretaria da Educação, mas de maneira transversal. No currículo da área de Ciências da Natureza, não se identificou qualquer menção à Educação das Relações Étnico-Raciais e essa ausência aponta para um currículo eurocêntrico, com base em epistemologias europeias/brancas, de forma a invisibilizar as contribuições do continente africano para o desenvolvimento científico ao longo dos anos.
"Eles colocam uma realidade lá que não é minha!":
Authors: Rufino Luiz Gustavo Bonatto , Borges Cecilia , Souza Neto Samuel de
Published: November 2024

O presente estudo objetivou analisar os impactos dos processos reflexivos de professores de Educação Física sobre as políticas curriculares e práticas educativas, utilizando a metodologia da Autoconfrontação Simples, no contexto da Clínica da Atividade. Assim, buscou-se compreender como os professores interpretam, adaptam e confrontam as atividades prescritas e reais, revelando as discrepâncias contidas nas políticas curriculares e na prática pedagógica. Os participantes foram seis professores de Educação Física envolvidos em um processo de desenvolvimento profissional docente, os quais tiveram aulas observadas, gravadas, transcritas e analisadas em oito episódios para cada um, por meio da Autoconfrontação Simples, a qual foi gravada e submetida a análise de conteúdo. Os resultados foram organizados em quatro categorias: 1) A utilização dos currículos oficiais como forma de prescrição do trabalho docente e os desafios da atividade real; 2) Dificuldades provenientes da atividade real; 3) Limites e contingências que restringem a atividade real; 4) O trabalho prescrito e o real da atividade na conjuntura da Educação Física. Os resultados identificaram saberes tácitos emergentes durante o processo reflexivo, sobretudo na relação entre atividade real e atividade prescrita, bem como reconheceram a dimensão coletiva da atividade e as interações sociais no transcurso do trabalho, revelando ainda como os saberes podem contribuir para os processos de desenvolvimento profissional docente. Nesse sentido, o processo desenvolvido por meio da Análise das Práticas pode contribuir com práticas formativas galgadas na reflexão e com a reconfiguração de políticas curriculares, tornando-as mais alinhadas com as realidades e necessidades baseadas no trabalho docente.
Os raios x da experiência formativa:
Authors: Darío Montoya Nanclares Ruben , Prata Seixas Catharine
Published: November 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo principal compreender os alcances da retroalimentação colaborativa do currículo e o seu papel para transformação na qualidade da educação. Esta pesquisa faz parte dos resultados da tese de doutorado “Compreendendo a retroalimentação colaborativa de currículo: a ressonância da experiência discente na qualificação dos processos formativos em universidades públicas do Brasil e da Colômbia”. Fundamenta-se nos princípios da etnometodologia, multirreferencialidade e atos de currículo, perspectivas teóricas que ajudaram o pesquisador a refletir em torno de uma nova qualidade da educação, que abraça um currículo outro, que entra em diálogo com a experiência discente; que contempla uma formação que considera não só as exigências instituídas, mas também as necessidades dos contextos e dos sujeitos vistos como atores curriculantes sendo a retroalimentação colaborativa de currículo, é o dispositivo mediador.
A produção de textos de políticas curriculares:
Authors: Albergaria Mello Rafaela , Ferreira da Costa Monteiro Ana Maria
Published: November 2024

O artigo tem como objetivo compreender o contexto de influência na produção de textos na perspectiva do ciclo de políticas (Bowe, Ball, Gold, 1992) no processo de elaboração de texto da Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC). Analisamos as políticas curriculares nacionais desde o período da Redemocratização. Rastreou-se a Conferência de Jomtien (1990) realizada na Tailândia como um marco referencial no processo de elaboração de uma política curricular brasileira, e o Seminário Internacional Liderando Reformas Educacionais: Fortalecendo o Brasil para o Século XXI, organizado pela Fundação Lemann, no ano de 2013 em Yale, como princípio para a elaboração de um currículo nacional, sendo um divisor no âmbito da construção dessa política curricular educacional. Entretanto a BNCC não é um texto curricular isolado, mas parte da constituição de uma política curricular nacional alinhada à ideia de um comum, presente em um jogo político contínuo desde a participação do Brasil em Jomtien.
Cenas antidemocráticas:
Authors: Neves dos Santos Anderson , Lazzaretti Segat Juliana , Caetano Marcio
Published: November 2024

O artigo objetiva investigar as expressões da aliança entre neoliberalismo e neoconservadorismo nos debates sobre as políticas curriculares da educação básica. Para isso, a partir de pesquisa bibliográfica, buscamos, em um primeiro momento, explorar meandros dessas racionalidades e suas alianças, pensando em como reverberam no campo da educação. Como destaque, apresentamos os projetos ligados ao homeschooling e à militarização das escolas. Após, por meio de uma abordagem qualitativa e fazendo uso da metodologia de pesquisa narrativa, compartilhamos duas cenas do cotidiano escolar, vivenciadas por professoras/es da educação básica. A partir disso, propomo-nos a problematizar como os projetos neoliberal e neoconservador se expressam nas disputas em torno dos currículos. A partir de uma perspectiva pós-crítica e dos estudos nosdoscom os cotidianos, apresentamos uma concepção de currículo que extrapola os documentos e políticas formais. Os currículos são, assim, articulados como território de disputas, que são praticados nos cotidianos em que convivem diferentes culturas e redes formativas. Observamos que tais projetos estão cada vez mais presentes, afetando os cotidianos das escolas. No entanto, as/os praticantes, nesse espaçotempo, por meio de táticas, vão criando resistências ao que se tenta ali instituir.
Finalidades e tarefas educativas da escola na perspectiva dos movimentos sociais populares
Authors: Mufarrej Hage Salomão Antônio
Published: November 2024

O artigo aborda um diálogo com Roseli Caldart, uma militante histórica do Movimento dos Trabalhadores Rurais Sem Terra (MST), educadora e pesquisadora comprometida com uma educação pública de qualidade, voltada para os territórios do campo, das águas e das florestas. Sua visão se ancora na Educação Popular, que propõe uma formação humana libertadora, omnilateral e unitária, tanto para os sujeitos do campo quanto da cidade. Caldart compreende que a educação pode contribuir com o fortalecimento da contra hegemonia ao sistema mundo capitalista, que mercantiliza todos os aspectos da vida. Recentemente, lançou um livro, publicado pela Editora Expressão Popular, intitulado “Sobre as Tarefas Educativas da Escola e a Atualidade”. Na obra, ela reflete sobre o papel social da escola nos dias de hoje, referenciando-se em sua trajetória de protagonismo na construção do Movimento da Educação do Campo, que completou 25 anos de existência em 2023.
Internal Quality Network Stress and Inflammation Reaction Indicators in the Expression and Significance of the Serum of Limited Pregnant Women’s Serum
Authors: Shen Qi , Yu Litao , Zhang Hui
Published: November 2024

Aims/Background Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a common clinical disorder in pregnant women. Inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress play an important role in the occurrence and development of FGR. The purpose of this study was to explore the expression and significance of endoplasmic reticulum stress and inflammatory response indicators in the serum of pregnant women with FGR.

Methods The data of pregnant women admitted to Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital from January 2020 to June 2023 were collected and analyzed by propensity score matching (PSM). Pregnant women with FGR were included in the observation group (n = 65), whereas healthy pregnant women admitted to the hospital during the same period were included in the control group (n = 65). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the serum levels of inflammatory markers such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in all the pregnant women recruited in this study. The serum levels of glucose regulatory protein 78 (GRP78) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), which are characteristic indicators of endoplasmic reticulum stress, in the two groups of pregnant women, were also detected and analyzed. A range of parameters concerning fetal growth and development indicators, such as fetal head circumference, abdominal circumference and fetal development index, of the two groups of study subjects were recorded and compared. Analyze the correlation between inflammatory response indicators and endoplasmic reticulum stress factors in pregnant women with FGR and fetal growth and development indicators.

Results The serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < 0.001). The serum levels of GRP78 and CHOP in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < 0.001). The levels of GRP78 and CHOP in pregnant women with FGR were negatively correlated with fetal head circumference, abdominal circumference, and fetal growth and development index (p < 0.05).

Conclusion The serum levels of inflammatory markers such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in pregnant women with FGR were abnormally elevated, indicating severe inflammatory response. In addition, endoplasmic reticulum stress was observed in pregnant women with FGR, marked by significantly elevated levels of GRP78 and CHOP. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, GRP78 and CHOP were negatively correlated with fetal head circumference, abdominal circumference and fetal growth and development index, implying their impacts on the occurrence and development of FGR.
Analysis of the Contributing Factors to Teachers’ Job Dissatisfaction in Lesotho Secondary Schools and the Mitigating Strategies
Authors: Sepiriti Sepiriti
Published: November 2024

Teachers are expected to influence the development of certain attributes, including courtesy, discipline, accountability, and diligence among learners. These attributes echo the basic premise of the child-friendly school framework (CFS) and the ideology of sustainable learning environments. In order for teachers to contribute towards efficacy in schools and in instructional activities, studies indicate that they should be satisfied. However, it has been revealed that in some Lesotho secondary schools, teachers are not happy with their jobs. The reported teachers’ discontent adversely affects their commitment and enthusiasm. In order to reveal the causes of teacher job dissatisfaction in some Lesotho secondary schools, this study adopted a narrative qualitative approach design. This approach was ideal as it enabled 10 purposively identified teachers in Leribe and Maseru to freely narrate their lived experiences. The Herzberg duality theory (HDT) and the Transformational leadership theory (TLT) were adopted as the philosophical underpinning for this study. The inductive thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the data generated for this study. The findings suggest that teacher job dissatisfaction in some Lesotho secondary schools is caused by factors such as the use of resources for personal gain, lack of maintenance, intolerance, and habitual absenteeism among principals. The findings further suggest that strategies including teacher involvement, impartiality, and external school auditing could reduce teacher job dissatisfaction and instead create the opposite effect.
KÜLTÜRE KARŞI YAPAY ZEKA: POSTHÜMANİZM, TEKİLLİK VE JETGİLLER YANILGISI
Authors: Kürkçüoğlu Hakan
Published: November 2024

Bu çalışma, son yıllarda etkisi ve kullanım alanı giderek genişleyen yapay zeka çalışmalarının temelinde yatan düşünce eksenine ve bu fikirlerin ileride kültüre yönelik olarak yaratacağı muhtemel etkilere odaklanmaktadır. Bu amaçla öncelikle yapay zeka modellerinin üretimindeki düşünce eksenini belirleyen aktörlere değinilmiş ve kavramla ilgili olarak -adlandırılışı da dahil olmak üzere- bazı tartışmalara yer verilmiştir. Daha sonra, yapay zeka çalışmalarının yönünün ortaya çıkmasında önemli rol oynadığı düşünülen teknolojik determinizm, Transhümanizm ve Posthümanizm gibi felsefi/sosyolojik akımlar ilgili literatür bağlamında incelenmiştir. Bu akımlar çerçevesinde, teknolojik gelişmelerin sonucunda kaçınılmaz bir şekilde ortaya çıkmasına neredeyse kesin gözüyle bakılan teknolojik tekillik, Silikon Vadisi gibi yapay zekanın lokomotifi sayılabilecek çevreler söz konusu olduğunda bir çeşit ideolojik akım olarak değerlendirilmiştir. Bu ideolojik bakışın altında şekillenen yapay zeka çalışmalarına ve yapay zekanın kültüre olan etkilerine dair kaygı ve eleştirilere yer verilmiş, özellikle literatürde “Jetgiller Yanılgısı” olarak adlandırılmış olan, teknoloji sürekli olarak hayatı kolaylaştırıcı bir noktaya giderken insan kültürünün bugünkü haliyle mevcudiyetini korumaya devam edeceği yönündeki bakış üzerinde durulmuştur. Sonuç olarak; literatürdeki eleştirilerden hareketle, yapay zekanın tekilliğe giden yolda, verimlilik, kar maksimizasyonu gibi hedeflerle gerçekleşen üretiminin geri dönülemez bir şekilde insan kültürüne karşıt bir işlev gösterebileceği, bu nedenle bu durumun öncelikli bir tartışma ve eleştiri konusu haline gelmesinin oldukça önem arz ettiği değerlendirilmektedir.
An Intelligent Algorithm for Semantic Feature Analysis and Translation of English Texts
Authors: Chen Sha
Published: November 2024

Accurate and rapid translation is conducive to the cultural communication of different languages. This paper briefly introduces the long short-term memory (LSTM) algorithm. To enhance the performance of the LSTM algorithm, semantic features were introduced, and semantic similarity was used to screen the translations that are more in line with the semantics of the source text. Then, simulation experiments were conducted. The experiments first examined the effects of the quantity of hidden layer nodes and the type of activation function in LSTM on the translation performance. Then, the LSTM algorithm was compared with the recurrent neural network (RNN) and traditional LSTM algorithms.The proposed translation algorithm showed the best performance when there were 512 hidden layer nodes and the activation function was sigmoid, it performed better than the other two translation algorithms, and the obtained result was consistent with the semantic meaning of the source text and smooth.
Research on Distributed Access Simulation of Large-Scale Multi-Source Terminals for 5G
Authors: Ge Lihong , Zhang Pengyu , Hou Kaiwen , Ao Wei , Zhou Lin , Li Yindong
Published: November 2024

Large-scale machine communication scenarios are faced with the characteristics of a large number of terminal devices, small communication packets and frequent transmissions. Traditional multiple access technology can’t fully apply to these characteristics, so it needs to be improved and designed. In order to further improve the effect of distributed access strategy formulation of large-scale multi-source terminal for 5G, this paper proposes a distributed access technology for large-scale multi-source terminals for 5G. For distributed access scenarios, antenna units in the distributed system are scattered in the system, and each antenna unit keeps communication with the surrounding terminal equipment, which can expand the number of terminal devices randomly accessed in the same time slot. Then, taking advantage of this inherent advantage and the advantage of time-shifted pilot, this paper proposes a distributed random access scheme based on time-shifted pilot. Finally, through analysis and simulation, this paper proves that this scheme can effectively reduce the pilot collision probability of each antenna element and the average access delay in the system, which provides a technical reference for the subsequent distributed access of large-scale multi-source terminals.
60 Jahre RISM: Interview mit dem Präsidenten Christoph Wolff
Authors: Wolff Christoph , Wolf Ulrike
Published: November 2024

RISM als erfolgreiches Projekt der Zusammenarbeit zwischen Musikwissenschaft und Musikbibliotheken wird 60 Jahre alt. Das ist Anlass, den RISM-Präsidenten, Christoph Wolff, nach Geschichte, Aufgaben und Perspektiven von RISM zu befragen.
Notendruck an Rhein und Main im 18. und 19. Jahrhundert
Authors: Beer Axel
Published: November 2024

Der steigende Facettenreichtum in der Musik sowie das erhöhte musikalische Schaffen im 19. jahrhundert bedingten die Zunahme an Musikalienhändler im Raum Frankfurt und konnten sich auch neben den großen Verlagshäusern wie Schott in Mainz oder André in Offenbach durchsetzten.
Politics of Patents and Biopiracy: Reading Inez Baranay's Neem Dreams
Authors: Chaturvedi Rahul
Published: November 2024

Abstract: This article examines Inez Baranay's novel Neem Dreams (2003), which offers a scathing critique of the biopiracy of traditional knowledge about plants. Drawing on the eminent Indian environmentalist Vandana Shiva's philosophical insights into the question of biopiracy, the article analyzes how Baranay has foregrounded the issue of the commercialization of plants and their scientific properties. The article also explores how globalization, in the name of development, has promoted "secular recolonization" and the dominance of transnational capitalism, adversely affecting the economy and societies of the developing world. Critically analyzing Baranay's novel and her eco-feminist/fictional resistance to the issue of biopiracy, the article considers the implications of biopiracy and its misappropriation of traditional knowledge apropos the neem tree.
Quantifying UV-induced photodamage for longitudinal live-cell imaging applications of deep-UV microscopy
Authors: Gorti Viswanath , McCubbins Kaitlyn , Houston Daniel , Silva Trenkle Aaron D. , Holberton Abigail , Serafini Caroline E. , Wood Levi , Kwong Gabriel , Robles Francisco E.
Published: November 2024

Deep-UV microscopy enables high-resolution, label-free molecular imaging by leveraging biomolecular absorption properties in the UV spectrum. Recent advances in UV-imaging hardware have renewed interest in this technique for quantitative live cell imaging applications. However, UV-induced photodamage remains a concern for longitudinal dynamic imaging studies. Here, we quantify UV phototoxicity with several cell types at notable UV wavelengths. We find that the fluence required for cell death via UV phototoxicity with continuous UV exposure varies with cell type and wavelength from ∼0.5µJ/µm2 to 2µJ/µm2, but is independent of typical illumination power/radiant flux of UV microscopy (e.g., 0.1-20 nW/µm2). We also show results from fractionation studies that reveal cell repair following UV exposure, which increases the tolerance to UV radiation by a factor of 2 or more, depending on the fractionation paradigm. Results further show that UV tolerance exceeds ANSI guidelines for maximum permissible exposure. Finally, we calculate imaging limits for a typical application of UV microscopy, such as hematology analysis. Together, this work provides UV fluence thresholds that can serve as guidelines for nondestructive, longitudinal, and dynamic deep-UV microscopy experiments.
Ultrabroadband tunable difference frequency generation in a standardized thin-film lithium niobate platform
Authors: Koyaz Yesim , Lafforgue Christian , Zarebidaki Homa , Hefti Olivia , Grassani Davide , Sattari Hamed , Brès Camille-Sophie
Published: November 2024

Thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) on an insulator is a promising platform for nonlinear photonic integrated circuits (PICs) due to its strong light confinement, high second-order nonlinearity, and flexible quasi-phase-matching for three-wave mixing processes via periodic polling. Among the three-wave mixing processes of interest, difference frequency generation (DFG) can produce long-wave infrared (IR) light from readily available near IR inputs. While broadband DFG is well studied for mid-IR frequencies, achieving broadband idler generation within the telecom window (near C-band) and the short-wave infrared (near 2 micron) is more challenging due to stringent dispersion profile requirements, especially when using standardized TFLN thicknesses. In this paper, we investigate various standard waveguide designs to pinpoint favorable conditions for broadband DFG operation covering several telecom bands. Our simulations identify viable designs with a possible 3-dB conversion efficiency bandwidth (CE-BW) of 300 nm and our measurements show idler generation from 1418 nm to 1740 nm, limited by our available sources, experimentally confirming our design approach. Furthermore, temperature tuning allows a further shift of the idler towards the mid-IR, up to 1819 nm. We also achieve a stretched wavelength range of idler generation by leveraging the longitudinal variation of the waveguide in addition to poling. Finally, our numerical simulations show the possibility of extending the CE-BW up to 780 nm while focusing on waveguide cross-sections that are available for fabrication within a foundry. Our work provides a methodology that bridges the deviations between fabricated and designed cross-sections, paving a way for standardized broadband DFG building blocks.
Boosting strong self-hybrid coupling in simple bulk transition metal dichalcogenides metasurfaces
Authors: Wang Jingyu , Wu Suze , Yang Weimin
Published: November 2024

The emergence of exciton-polaritons in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) has sparked keen interest due to their exceptional optical features, enabling investigations into fascinating physical phenomena such as superfluidity and Bose-Einstein condensation. However, the comprehensive examination of strong coupling, featuring substantial Rabi splitting, simultaneously engaging surface plasmon polariton (SPP) modes, anapole resonances, and excitons, remains limited. In this contribution, we computationally unravel the strong coupling of an SPP-anapole-exciton complex, supported by a novel metasurface design featuring a bulk WS2 nanodisk array separated by a SiO2 spacer and overlaid with an Al film. This innovative setup fosters profound interactions among SPP modes, anapole states, and excitons within the bulk WS2 nanodisks, resulting in an impressive Rabi splitting of 407 meV. Our proposed hybrid metasurfaces present a promising avenue for achieving strong coupling among diverse optical responses in light-matter interactions, thereby catalyzing the development of advanced polaritonic devices with novel functionalities.
Research on PFN suppression methods in φ-OTDR systems based on the MSI-VPFN algorithm
Authors: Tong Shuai , Zhao Xinying , Zhang Chi , Ding Chenyang , Ding Hao , Awan Imtiaz Naseeb , Zou Ningmu , Liu Huanhuan , Xiong Fei , Zhang Yixin , Zhang Xuping
Published: November 2024

The phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometry (φ-OTDR) system can monitor the distribution of the acoustic field along the sensing fiber through single-ended access, making it applicable in various fields. However, phase fluctuation noise (PFN) suppression remains a significant challenge. This paper aims to clarify the complex relationship between the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the intermediate frequency (IF) signal and PFN in φ-OTDR systems by quantitatively establishing the nonlinear relationship between the carrier-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the IF signal and the variance of the PFN (VPFN). Accordingly, we propose the MSI-VPFN algorithm, which effectively suppresses PFN by dynamically adjusting spatial weighting according to the standard deviation of VPFN. Compared to the original signal, applying the MSI-VPFN algorithm reduces the PFN standard deviation from 0.386 rad to 0.068 rad and decreases the probability of fading noise from 6.23% to 0.19%. The MSI-VPFN algorithm outperforms traditional methods, providing a scientific basis for evaluating system performance and establishing a solid foundation for the broader application of φ-OTDR technology.
Effective sensitization of Dy3+:6H11/2 energy level by Tm3+ ions in KPb2Br5 crystal for 4.3 µm lasers
Authors: Liu Xing-kun , He Ming-zhu , Fang Qian-nan , Chen Yi-chong , Chen Guang-zhu , Li Shan-ming , Zhao Cheng-chun , Hang Yin
Published: November 2024

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the use of Tm3+ to sensitize the Dy3+ ion and enhance the ∼4.3 µm emission from Dy3+:6H11/2 → 6H13/2 in the KPb2Br5 (KPB) crystal. The ∼4.3 µm fluorescence emission properties and energy transfer mechanism of the Dy:KPB and Tm,Dy:KPB crystals were examined. The results show that Tm3+ is an excellent sensitizer to the Dy3+ ion and can provide an efficient excitation channel; thus, the Tm,Dy:KPB crystal can be pumped by a commercial 808 nm laser diode (LD). Compared with the Dy:KPB crystal, co-doping with the Tm3+ ion improves the absorption around 800 nm by an order of magnitude, and the energy transfer efficiency from Tm3+:3F4 to Dy3+:6H11/2 is as high as 76.7%, indicating that the Tm,Dy:KPB crystal has great potential application in ∼4.3 µm mid-infrared lasers under a commercial LD pump.
Zero and double-knotted droplet-shaped optical fiber sensor for rapid temperature variation monitoring
Authors: Salman Ansam M. , Al-Janabi Abdulhadi , Salman Zainab M. , Salman Karrar M. , Al-Lami Shahad Sabhan
Published: November 2024

Compact, simple optical fiber sensors based on a macro-bend fiber configuration were fabricated and proposed for instantaneous temperature measurement. These fiber sensors were manufactured by straightforwardly mechanically bending two different pieces of single-mode fiber (SMF) into zero-knotted droplet-shaped and double-knotted droplet-shaped, separately, with radii of a few millimeters. The sharp bending excites mode interferences among the core mode and the stimulated modes transmitting in the cladding region of the silica SMF. Many resonant interference fringes were perceived in the transmission signal and were noticed to shift to a shorter spectral region with the rise of environmental temperature (ET). The resultant data prove the practicality of the fabricated optical fiber sensors with excellent temperature sensitivities of about −1.128 nm/°C and −1.904 nm/°C, for zero-knotted droplet-shaped and double-knotted droplet-shaped, respectively, which is several times larger than sensors based on straight-transmitted fiber constructions. The proposed sensors’ structures may contribute effectively to temperature variations monitoring for environmental or industrial uses due to their large thermo-optical coefficient of the silica core and the big RI difference between the core and cladding of the bending fiber section.
Opportunities to design better computer vison-assisted food diaries to support individuals and experts in dietary assessment: An observation and interview study with nutrition experts
Authors: Chung Chia-Fang , Chiang Pei-Ni , Tan Connie Ann , Wu Chien-Chun , Schmidt Haley , Kotarski Aric , Guise David
Published: November 2024

Automatic visual recognition for photo-based food diaries is increasingly prevalent. However, existing tools in food recognition often focus on food classification and calorie counting, which may not be sufficient to support the variety of food and healthy eating goals people have. To understand how to better design computer-vision-based food diaries to support healthy eating, we began to examine how nutrition experts, such as dietitians, use the visual features of food photos to evaluate diet quality. We conducted an observation and interview study with 18 dietitians, during which we asked the dietitians to review a seven-day photo-based food diary and fill out an evaluation form about their observations, recommendations, and questions. We then conducted follow-up interviews to understand their strategies, needs, and challenges of photo diary review. Our findings show that dietitians used the photo features to understand long-term eating patterns, diet variety, eating contexts, and food portions. Dietitians also adopted various strategies to achieve these understandings, such as grouping photos to find patterns, using color to estimate food variety, and identifying background objects to infer eating contexts. These findings suggest design opportunities for future compute-vision-based food diaries to account for dietary patterns over time, incorporate contextual information in dietary analysis, and support collaborations between nutrition experts, clients, and computer vision systems in dietary review and provide individualized recommendations.
Perceptions of prevalence and management of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) infection among healthcare workers in Kweneng District, Botswana: Report of a district-wide survey
Authors: Mamalelala Tebogo T. , Karmen-Tuohy Savannah , Chimbwete Lettie , Mokone Ditebogo J. , Shapiro Roger , Young Claire , Schwanke Khilji Sara
Published: November 2024

Over 9.5 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 infection have been recorded in Africa. The syndrome of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) affects an estimated 32% to 87% of COVID patients globally. Data regarding prevalence and impact of PASC in Botswana are limited. This study used a cross-sectional survey design to query healthcare workers in Kweneng District, Botswana about perceived PASC prevalence, duration, symptoms, impact, and management strategies. The survey was disseminated to participants via pre-existing WhatsApp groups and paper copy. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data, including demographic data. 72 respondents consented and completed the survey, from an estimated 650 staff meeting eligibility criteria; 63% were female and 36% were male. The majority (90%) were nurses, with doctors and “other” accounting for 6% and 4% of respondents, respectively; no administrators responded. Over half (72%) worked at primary care facilities and 28% worked in hospitals. Nearly all (93%) indicated seeing patients with PASC on a weekly basis, though the majority (61%) identified these patients as comprising <10% of total patients. The most frequently reported PASC symptom was persistent cough (64%), followed by shortness of breath (54%) and fatigue (49%). A substantial minority of respondents were unsure how to manage common PASC symptoms, with 29% and 36% indicating uncertainty regarding management of persistent cough and fatigue, respectively. Findings indicate that PASC symptoms are frequently encountered in clinical practice in Botswana with significant overlap with acute COVID-19, influenza-like illnesses, and tuberculosis, likely placing increased burden on existing health system processes. Providers reported uncertainty in managing presumed PASC, and current practice patterns may contribute to unintended adverse effects. Clear clinical algorithms for PASC screening, diagnosis, and management should be developed and disseminated in Botswana to mitigate the effects of PASC symptoms and improve the quality of life of COVID-19 survivors.
In hot water: Uncertainties in projecting marine heatwaves impacts on seagrass meadows
Authors: Hatum Paula S. , McMahon Kathryn , Mengersen Kerrie , K. McWhorter Jennifer , Wu Paul P.-Y.
Published: November 2024

Seagrass ecosystems, vital as primary producer habitats for maintaining high biodiversity and delivering numerous ecosystem services, face increasing threats from climate change, particularly marine heatwaves. This study introduces a pioneering methodology that integrates Dynamic Bayesian Networks of ecosystem resilience with climate projections, aiming to enhance our understanding of seagrass responses to extreme climate events. We developed cutting-edge metrics for measuring shoot density and biomass in terms of population and site extinction, presented as annual ratios relative to their respective baselines. These metrics include associated uncertainties and projected recovery times. This innovative approach was applied in a case study focusing on Zostera muelleri in Gladstone Harbour, Australia. Utilising five downscaled climate models with a 10 km resolution, our study encompasses a range of Shared Socioeconomic Pathways and emissions trajectories, offering a comprehensive perspective on potential future scenarios. Our findings reveal significant variations in seagrass resilience and recovery times across different climate scenarios, accompanied by varying degrees of uncertainty. For instance, under the optimistic SSP1-1.9 scenario, seagrass demonstrated a capacity for recovery heat stress, with shoot density ratios improving from 0.2 (90% Prediction Interval 0.219, 0.221) in 2041 to 0.5 (90% PI 0.198, 1.076) by 2044. However, this scenario also highlighted potential site extinction risks, with recovery gaps spanning 12 to 18 years. In contrast, the more pessimistic SSP5-8.5 scenario revealed a significant decline in seagrass health, with shoot density ratios decreasing from 0.42 (90% PI 0.226, 0.455) in 2041 to just 0.2 (90% PI 0.211, 0.221) in 2048, and no recovery observed after 2038. This study, through its novel integration of climate models, Dynamic Bayesian Networks, and Monte Carlo methods, offers a groundbreaking approach to ecological forecasting, significantly enhancing seagrass resilience assessment and supporting climate adaptation strategies under changing climatic conditions. This methodology holds great potential for application across various sites and future climate scenarios, offering a versatile tool for integrating Dynamic Bayesian Networks ecosystem models.
Assessment of prevalence and motivators for family planning utilisation among youth students in higher learning institutions in Dodoma, Tanzania: A cross sectional study
Authors: Munuo Upendo , Moshi Fabiola Vincent
Published: November 2024

Background

Sub-Sahara Africa (SSA) has the greatest unmet need for family planning use, but young people are reported to under-utilise family planning services compared to other groups of women of the reproductive age in the region. Thus, promoting contraceptive services use among adolescents is vital in achieving universal access to sexual and reproductive health services.

Objective

The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and motivators for family planning services utilization among youth students in higher learning institutions in Dodoma, Tanzania.

Methods

An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 421 randomly selected youths in higher learning institutions in Dodoma. A self-administered structured questionnaire adopted from previous studies was used to collect data. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis using SPSS version 25 established association between variables. Statistical significance was declared at 95% confidence interval with α<0.05 and strength of association was reported by Odds Ratio (OR) and Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR).

Results

Majority of the participants 221 (52.5%) were females, and most of them 320 (76.0%) were aged between 21 to 24 years. Of all participants, bachelor’s degree scholar were 257 (61.0%). About 305, (72.4%) participants reported to have had sexual intercourse in the past 12 month. Of these 50.5% had their first intercourse at the age between 15 to 19 years. Most participants 239 (56.8%) reported to have used contraceptive method in the past 12 months. After adjusting for confounders (participants’ socio-demographic characteristics), the motivators for family planning use among youth students were: living with relatives (AOR = 2.904, p 0.006), adequate FP knowledge (AOR = 2.230 p 0.003), positive perception (AOR = 1.772, p 0.025) and discussing FP matters with sexual partners (AOR = 6.045, p <0. 001).

Conclusion

This study highlights a significant unmet need for family planning services among youth students in higher learning institutions in Dodoma, Tanzania, reflecting broader trends in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite high sexual activity, family planning utilization remains suboptimal. Key motivators for using family planning services include living with relatives, having adequate knowledge, positive perceptions, and discussing family planning with sexual partners. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions focusing on education, fostering positive perceptions, and encouraging open partner discussions to enhance family planning utilization among adolescents, contributing to universal access to sexual and reproductive health services.
Research on the impact of enterprise mergers and acquisitions on technological innovation: An empirical analysis based on listed Chinese enterprises
Authors: Bai Yujiao , Zhang Hao
Published: November 2024

As an important means for enterprises to acquire technological resources, the impact of mergers and acquisitions on technological innovation and underlying mechanisms deserve in-depth study. Using the merger and acquisition data of A-share listed Chinese companies from 2007 to 2020 in Shanghai and Shenzhen, the causal effects and influence mechanisms between mergers and acquisitions and technological innovation are identified and tested using the Difference-in-Differences method. The study finds that mergers and acquisitions have a long-term, sustained, technological innovation-enhancing effect on firms. Mechanism tests show that mergers and acquisitions can promote the technological innovation of enterprises by improving production efficiency, enriching digital knowledge, and enhancing market power. A heterogeneity analysis shows that the effect of mergers and acquisitions in enhancing technological innovation is more significant when the mergers and acquisitions meet domestic merger and acquisition requirements, when there is a small transaction size, and when the enterprises involved in the mergers and acquisitions are not state-owned. It is suggested that enterprises and the government should use multiple measures, while considering the impact of heterogeneity, to take full advantage of the positive effects of mergers and acquisitions on technological innovation.