bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the correlation between tree structure characteristics and carbon storage in historic gardens using TLS technology: a case study of Jian Xin Pavilions at Jingyi Park, Fragrant Hills Park
Authors: Ouyang Cuiyu , He Xiaoxiao , Lin Ruipeng , Qin Ke
Published: November 2024

Historic gardens contain a greater number and variety of ancient trees, which are older, have unique forms, and larger volumes. These trees hold significant value in both natural ecosystems and cultural heritage. However, current research on the carbon sequestration value of ancient and non-ancient trees in historical gardens is relatively lacking. Based on the unique morphology and carbon storage estimation needs of ancient trees in historic gardens, this paper proposes a morphology-based point cloud single-tree segmentation method. This method can precisely extract the morphological structures of various tree species and accurately estimate their carbon storage. From the perspective of carbon sequestration, it evaluates the correlation between the structural characteristics and carbon storage of trees in historic gardens, as well as the potential changes in their carbon storage capacity.Using the Jing Yi Park’s Jian Xin Pavilions in Fragrant Hills Park as a case study, this method was applied to extract structural indicators of 116 ancient and non-ancient trees. The total carbon storage was found to be 19,171.13 kg, with an average carbon storage of 165.27 kg per tree. Among these, ancient trees accounted for 13,178.32 kg, or 68.74% of the total carbon storage. The study revealed that the correlation between tree age and carbon storage varied by species, and there were significant positive correlations between carbon storage and tree height, DBH, and canopy volume. Notably, there was a significant linear growth trend between DBH, canopy volume, and carbon storage. By 2030, the total carbon storage is projected to increase to 21,924.96 kg, with an annual average increase of 393.40 kg, representing a growth rate of 14.4%.The results indicate that studying the correlation between structural characteristics and carbon storage of aged trees in historical gardens can shed light on the important role of trees in sustainable carbon sequestration. The precise extraction of tree information through 3D digital technology and the prediction of carbon storage potential not only offer new perspectives for the conservation of cultural heritage in historical gardens, urban microclimate planning and design, and spatial management of carbon sinks and emissions but also have significant value for promoting the scientific management and protection of urban green spaces.
The role of orthodontists in the multidisciplinary management of obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Faber Jorge , Mota Aliciane , Ho Lai-In , Darendeliler M Ali
Published: November 2024

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a complex disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to a range of adverse outcomes from reduced quality of life to serious health risks, including cardiovascular diseases and increased mortality.

Main Body

This manuscript reviews the orthodontists’ essential role in the multidisciplinary healthcare team tasked with managing OSA. It particularly highlights critical orthodontic interventions, such as surgical-orthodontic maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), mandibular advancement appliances (MAAs), and rapid maxillary expansion (RME). These interventions are pivotal in modifying craniofacial structures to enhance airway patency. The importance of conducting a thorough airway analysis is underscored, assessing the complete anatomical and functional factors contributing to airway obstruction.

Conclusion

The paper calls for increased collaborative research efforts to develop standardized, evidence-based orthodontic procedures for effectively managing OSA, aiming to improve patient outcomes through specialized, tailored interventions.
Lethal versus surviving sepsis phenotypes displayed a partly differential regional expression of neurotransmitters and inflammation and did not modify the blood–brain barrier permeability in female CLP mice
Authors: Azizian-Farsani Fatemeh , Weixelbaumer Katrin , Mascher Daniel , Klang Andrea , Högler Sandra , Dinhopl Nora , Bauder Barbara , Weissenböck Herbert , Tichy Alexander , Schmidt Peter , Mascher Hermann , Osuchowski Marcin F.
Published: November 2024

Background

Septic encephalopathy is frequent but its pathophysiology is enigmatic. We studied expression of neurotransmitters, inflammation and integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) in several brain regions during abdominal sepsis. We compared mice with either lethal or surviving phenotype in the first 4 sepsis days. Mature CD-1 females underwent cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Body temperature (BT) was measured daily and predicted-to-die (within 24 h) mice (for P-DIE; BT < 28 °C) were sacrificed together (1:1 ratio) with mice predicted-to-survive (P-SUR; BT > 35 °C), and healthy controls (CON). Brains were dissected into neocortex, cerebellum, midbrain, medulla, striatum, hypothalamus and hippocampus.

Results

CLP mice showed an up to threefold rise of serotonin in the hippocampus, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic and homovanillic acid (HVA) in nearly all regions vs. CON. Compared to P-SUR, P-DIE mice showed a 1.7 to twofold rise of HVA (386 ng/g of tissue), dopamine (265 ng/g) and 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC; 140 ng/g) in the hippocampus, hypothalamus and medulla (174, 156, 82 ng/g of tissue, respectively). CLP increased expression of TNFα, IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA by several folds in the midbrain, cerebellum and hippocampus versus CON. The same cytokines were further elevated in P-DIE vs P-SUR in the midbrain and cerebellum. Activation of astrocytes and microglia was robust across regions but remained typically phenotype independent. There was a similar influx of sodium fluorescein across the BBB in both P-DIE and P-SUR mice.

Conclusions

Compared to survivors, the lethal phenotype induced a stronger deregulation of amine metabolism and cytokine expression in selected brain regions, but the BBB permeability remained similar regardless of the predicted outcome.
Geochemical and mineralogical analysis of low-grade metamorphic rocks and their response to shallow landslide occurrence in Central Nepal
Authors: Silwal Bishow Raj , Gyawali Babu Ram , Yoshida Kohki
Published: November 2024

Background

The weathering intensity and geochemical properties of a rock contribute to shallow landslide occurrences. This study aims to establish the role of rock weathering in shallow slope instability in low-grade metamorphic rocks of the Lesser Himalaya region of central Nepal. The rocks of the Kuncha Formation, which consist of phyllites, metasandstones, and gritty phyllites are characterized by the formation of shallow landslides. Field characterization of the rock mass within the landslide body, along with petrographic observations, clay mineral analysis, and major bulk geochemistry were adopted to establish a relationship between rock weathering and landslide occurrence.

Results

The landslides distributed within the Kuncha Formation in the study area are debris-related slides and falls, rock falls, and complex slides. Microscopic petrographic observation of rock from the landslide area revealed well-developed microcracks and intergranular microfractures within the weathered samples, which suggests extensive disintegration and physical alteration. Kinematic analysis of the landslide slope revealed that discontinuities and bedding planes also affected the failure of the slope. The occurrence of neo-formed clay minerals and the conversion of biotite-muscovite to vermiculite, kaolinite, and mixed-layer clays indicate chemical weathering. The CIA ranges between 71 and 80 for the rock samples and between 72 and 84 for the soil samples, signifying moderate to extreme weathering effects. The higher values of PIA and CIW reveal K-feldspar and plagioclase alteration to clay minerals by weathering and alteration. CIA-LOI plots reveal significant relationships corresponding to weathering effects.

Conclusion

The transition of rock from a fresh to a moderately weathered state and the development of clay minerals and major discontinuities played a crucial role in shallow landslide occurrence. The weakened physical properties of the rock mass due to weathering coupled with unfavorable joints and fracture conditions have led to instability of the hillslopes in the study area. It was observed that one of the driving factors that drives slopes to erosion and landslides is weathering. The dominant occurrence of landslides in the weathered rock domain within the study area validates the occurrence of landslides and weathering interconnections.
Gastro-tracheal fistula following esophageal cancer surgery through the retrosternal route: a case report
Authors: Nishimura Seitaro , Noma Kazuhiro , Kawasaki Kento , Hashimoto Masashi , Kato Takuya , Maeda Naoaki , Tanabe Shunsuke , Shirakawa Yasuhiro , Fujiwara Toshiyoshi
Published: November 2024

Background

Gastro-tracheal fistula is a rare but serious complication after esophageal surgery, often requiring long-term treatment and invasive procedures. Gastro-tracheal fistula usually occurs through the posterior mediastinal route and rarely through the retrosternal route. No previous reports have described gastro-tracheal fistula after retrosternal route reconstruction was cured by conservative treatment.

Case presentation

A 70-year-old man with lower thoracic esophageal cancer underwent thoracoscopic esophagectomy in the prone position and gastric tube reconstruction through the retrosternal route with neck anastomosis after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Despite anastomotic leakage on postoperative day 10, his general condition was stable, and he was managed conservatively with antibiotics and gastric tube decompression. On day 29, he presented with high fever and a gastro-tracheal fistula was observed by esophagography. Conservative management was continued because the patient remained stable. On day 48, esophagography showed that the fistula was undetectable. The patient was able to take fluids orally. He progressed well on an oral diet and was transferred to a different hospital.

Conclusions

A gastro-tracheal fistula, although rare, can occur after retrosternal route reconstruction. When a patient is stable, gastro-tracheal fistula after retrosternal route reconstruction may be cured by conservative treatment.
Focusing on exosomes to overcome the existing bottlenecks of CAR-T cell therapy
Authors: Zhang Si-Heng , Peng Ling-Long , Chen Yi-Fei , Xu Yan , Moradi Vahid
Published: November 2024

Since chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells were introduced three decades ago, the treatment using these cells has led to outstanding outcomes, and at the moment, CAR-T cell therapy is a well-established mainstay for treating CD19 + malignancies and multiple myeloma. Despite the astonishing results of CAR-T cell therapy in B-cell-derived malignancies, several bottlenecks must be overcome to promote its safety and efficacy and broaden its applicability. These bottlenecks include cumbersome production process, safety concerns of viral vectors, poor efficacy in treating solid tumors, life-threatening side effects, and dysfunctionality of infused CAR-T cells over time. Exosomes are nano-sized vesicles that are secreted by all living cells and play an essential role in cellular crosstalk by bridging between cells. In this review, we discuss how the existing bottlenecks of CAR-T cell therapy can be overcome by focusing on exosomes. First, we delve into the effect of tumor-derived exosomes on the CAR-T cell function and discuss how inhibiting their secretion can enhance the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy. Afterward, the application of exosomes to the manufacturing of CAR-T cells in a non-viral approach is discussed. We also review the latest advancements in ex vivo activation and cultivation of CAR-T cells using exosomes, as well as the potential of engineered exosomes to in vivo induction or boost the in vivo proliferation of CAR-T cells. Finally, we discuss how CAR-engineered exosomes can be used as a versatile tool for the direct killing of tumor cells or delivering intended therapeutic payloads in a targeted manner.
A case of a 6-year-old girl with a rare compound heterozygous mutation of KCTD7 presenting with progressive myoclonic epilepsy
Authors: Badv Reza Shervin , Shariatmadari Fakhreddin , Bayat Shiva , Memarian Sara , Esteghamat Hanzae Samaneh , Yousefimanesh Hossein
Published: November 2024

Background

Progressive myoclonic epilepsy is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by myoclonic seizures, drug-resistant epilepsy and neurodevelopmental regression. The disease is attributed to mutations in KCTD7 (a member of the potassium channel tetramerization domain).

Case presentation

We report the case of a 6-year-old girl with compound heterozygous mutation in KCTD7. Whole-exome sequencing was carried out to detect the mutations followed by Sanger sequencing of the patient in addition to the unaffected parents which confirmed the diagnosis. The first mutation [c. 202A > G (p.Thr68Ala)] was inherited from mother and the second one [c. 458G > A (p.Arg153His)] was inherited from father.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report of compound heterozygousKCTD7-related progressive myoclonic epilepsy in Iran with c.202A > G in particular as a novel mutation. Our findings widen the scope of our knowledge of the underlying genetic etiology of the aforementioned disease which can further help us in the genetic diagnosis of these patients.
Clinical, laboratory, and procedural predictors of slow flow/no reflow phenomenon after emergency percutaneous coronary interventions in ST-elevated myocardial infarction
Authors: Bamarinejad Fatemeh , Kermani-alghoraishi Mohammad , Soleimani Azam , Roohafza Hamidreza , Yazdekhasti Safoura , Azarm Maedeh , Bamarinejad Atefeh , Sadeghi Masoumeh
Published: November 2024

Background

Emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a common treatment for ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. However, the coronary slow flow/no reflow phenomenon (CSF/NRP) can occur as a complication during or after the procedure. Identifying predictors of CSF/NRP after emergency PCI in STEMI patients can help clinicians anticipate and prevent this complication. In this study, we aimed to investigate clinical, laboratory, and procedural factors that may contribute to the development of CSF/NRP in STEMI patients undergoing PCI.

Results

A total of 460 patients were included in this study, with a mean (± SD) age of 60 ± 12.5 years. The incidence of CSF/NRP was 30.2% (n = 139) among the study population. The univariate analysis showed that older age, lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), initial thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI)flow grade 0–2, increased creatinine level, lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), diffuse target lesion length, and longer length of stent were significantly associated with the occurrence of CSF/NRP (p < 0.05). However, in the multivariate logistic regression model, only eGFR (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.96–0.99, p = 0.005), diffuse target lesion length (OR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.20–3.83, p = 0.009) and LVEF (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.94–0.98, p = 0.004) remained significant predictors of CSF/NRP.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that diffuse lesion length, lower LVEF, and lower eGFR can be considered as independent predictors of CSF/NRP in STEMI patients.
Exploring the left behind: unheard complication of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA)
Authors: Pahuja Sourabh , Bajad Pradeep , Agarwal Satyam , Khanna Arjun
Published: November 2024

Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) guided transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) is a widely used procedure in interventional pulmonology, known for its diagnostic accuracy and low complication rates. We report a rare complication of EBUS-TBNA involving the damage of the TBNA needle during sampling of a mediastinal lymph node, resulting in an impacted needle spring in the airway. Despite its rarity, awareness of such potential issues is crucial for all practitioners performing EBUS-TBNA to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.
The Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) Calculator Overestimates MODY Probability in Hispanic Youth
Authors: Alarcon Guido , Nguyen Anh , Jones Angus , Shields Beverley , Redondo Maria J , Tosur Mustafa
Published: November 2024

Context

The applicability of the maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) risk calculator to non-White European populations remains unknown.

Objective

We aimed to test its real-world application in Hispanic youth.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of Hispanic youth (<23 years) with diabetes (n = 2033) in a large pediatric tertiary care center in the United States. We calculated MODY probability for all subjects, splitting them into 2 cohorts based on the original model: individuals who were started on insulin within 6 months of diabetes diagnosis (Cohort 1) and those who were not (Cohort 2).

Results

Cohort 1 consisted of 1566 individuals (median age [25p, 75p]: 16 [13, 19] years, 49% female), while Cohort 2 comprised 467 youth (median age [25p, 75p]: 17 [15, 20] years, 62% female). The mean MODY probability was 5.9% and 61.9% in Cohort 1 and Cohort 2, respectively. The mean probability for both cohorts combined was 18.8%, suggesting an expected 382 individuals with MODY, which is much higher than previous estimations (1-5%; ie, 20-102 individuals in this cohort). A total of 18 individuals tested positive for MODY among the limited number of individuals tested based on clinical suspicion and genetic testing availability (n = 44 out of 2033 tested, 2.2% of overall cohort).

Conclusion

The MODY risk calculator likely overestimates the probability of MODY in Hispanic youth, largely driven by an overestimation in those not early-insulin treated (predominantly young-onset type 2 diabetes). The calculator needs updating to improve its applicability in this population. In addition, further research is needed to help better identify MODY in Hispanic youth.
Clinical Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy Using Talaporfin Sodium in Patients With Isocitrate Dehydrogenase-Wildtype Diagnosed Glioblastoma: A Retrospective Study of 100 Cases
Authors: Fujimoto Yosuke , Fujita Yuichi , Tanaka Kazuhiro , Nagashima Hiroaki , Yamanishi Shunsuke , Ikeuchi Yusuke , Iwahashi Hirofumi , Sanada Shoji , Muragaki Yoshihiro , Sasayama Takashi
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with talaporfin sodium is an intraoperative local therapy administered after the surgical removal of malignant gliomas. However, its clinical efficacy in a large patient population has not been determined. To analyze the clinical outcomes and prognosis in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-wildtype glioblastoma patients treated with PDT.

METHODS:

This retrospective study included patients with newly diagnosed IDH-wildtype glioblastoma treated at Kobe University Hospital between January 2013 and December 2022. PDT involves irradiation of the resection cavity with a 664-nm semiconductor laser after an intravenous infusion of talaporfin sodium. The main outcome measures were the recurrence patterns and survival times, which were compared between the PDT and non-PDT groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine the prognostic factors. In addition, adverse events and prognostic factors in the PDT group were analyzed.

RESULTS:

A total of 44 and 56 patients were included in the PDT and non-PDT groups, respectively. The local recurrence rate was significantly lower in the PDT group than in the non-PDT group (51.3% vs 83.9%), whereas the distant recurrence and dissemination rates were significantly higher in the PDT group than in the non-PDT group (48.7% vs 16.1%). Two grade 3 adverse events were observed in the PDT group. The median progression-free survival and overall survival times were significantly longer in the PDT group than in the non-PDT group (progression-free survival: 10.8 vs 9.3 months, respectively, and overall survival: 24.6 vs 17.6 months, respectively). Multivariate analysis of the PDT groups revealed that younger age was an independent prognostic factor.

CONCLUSION:

PDT with talaporfin sodium provided effective local control with minimal adverse effects. The survival time of the patients treated with PDT was significantly longer than that of the patients who did not receive PDT. Therefore, a randomized controlled clinical trial on PDT is warranted.
A genome-engineered tool set for Drosophila TGF-β/BMP signaling studies
Authors: Ell Clara-Maria , Safyan Abu , Chayengia Mrinal , Kustermann Manuela M. M. , Lorenz Jennifer , Schächtle Melanie , Pyrowolakis George
Published: November 2024

Ligands of the TGF-β/BMP superfamily are crucially involved in the regulation of growth, patterning and organogenesis and can act as long-range morphogens. Essential for understanding TGF-β/BMP signaling dynamics and regulation are tools that allow monitoring and manipulating pathway components at physiological expression levels and endogenous spatiotemporal patterns. We used genome engineering to generate a comprehensive library of endogenously epitope- or fluorescent-tagged versions of receptors, co-receptors, transcription factors and key feedback regulators of the Drosophila BMP and Activin signaling pathways. We demonstrate that the generated alleles are biologically active and can be used for assessing tissue and subcellular distribution of the corresponding proteins. Furthermore, we show that the genomic platforms can be used for in locus structure-function and cis-regulatory analyses. Finally, we present a complementary set of protein binder-based tools, which allow visualization as well as manipulation of the stability and subcellular localization of epitope-tagged proteins, providing new tools for the analysis of BMP signaling and beyond.
Retinal ganglion cell-derived semaphorin 6A segregates starburst amacrine cell dendritic scaffolds to organize the mouse inner retina
Authors: James Rebecca E. , Hamilton Natalie R. , Huffman Lola Nicole , Brown Matthew P. , Neckles Victoria N. , Pasterkamp R. Jeroen , Goff Loyal A. , Kolodkin Alex L.
Published: November 2024

To form functional circuits, neurons must settle in their appropriate cellular locations, and then project and elaborate neurites to contact their target synaptic neuropils. Laminar organization within the vertebrate retinal inner plexiform layer (IPL) facilitates pre- and postsynaptic neurite targeting, yet the precise mechanisms underlying establishment of functional IPL subdomains are not well understood. Here, we explore mechanisms defining the compartmentalization of OFF and ON neurites generally, and OFF and ON direction-selective neurites specifically, within the developing mouse IPL. We show that semaphorin 6A (Sema6A), a repulsive axon guidance cue, is required for delineation of OFF versus ON circuits within the IPL: in the Sema6a null IPL, the boundary between OFF and ON domains is blurred. Furthermore, Sema6A expressed by retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) directs laminar segregation of OFF and ON starburst amacrine cell dendritic scaffolds, which themselves serve as a substrate upon which other retinal neurites elaborate. These results demonstrate that RGCs, the first type of neuron born within the retina, play an active role in functional specialization of the IPL.
The role of mesenchymal cells in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Sueca-Comes Mireia , Rusu Elena Cristina , Ashworth Jennifer C. , Collier Pamela , Probert Catherine , Ritchie Alison , Meakin Marian , Mongan Nigel P. , Egbuniwe Isioma U. , Andersen Jesper Bøje , Bates David O. , Grabowska Anna M.
Published: November 2024

The tumour microenvironment (TME) significantly influences tumour formation and progression through dynamic interactions. Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a highly desmoplastic tumour, lacks early diagnostic biomarkers and has limited effective treatments owing to incomplete understanding of its molecular pathogenesis. Investigating the role of the TME in CCA progression could lead to better therapies. RNA sequencing was performed on seven CCA patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) and their corresponding patient samples. Differential expression analysis was conducted, and Qiagen Ingenuity Pathway Analysis was used to predict dysregulated pathways and upstream regulators. PDX- and cell line-derived spheroids, with and without immortalised mesenchymal stem cells, were grown and analysed for morphology, growth and viability. Histological analysis confirmed biliary phenotypes. RNA sequencing indicated upregulation of extracellular matrix-receptor interaction and PI3K-AKT pathways in the presence of mesenchymal cells, with several genes linked to poor survival. Mesenchymal cells restored the activity of inhibited cancer-associated kinases. Thus, adding mesenchymal cells to CCA spheroid models restored key paracrine signalling pathways lost in PDXs, enhancing tumour growth and viability. These findings highlight the importance of including stromal components in cancer models to improve pre-clinical studies.
The genome sequence of spotted medick, Medicago arabica (L.) Huds. (Fabaceae)
Authors: Christenhusz Maarten J. M. , Fay Michael F. , Leitch Ilia J. ,   Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Genome Acquisition Lab,   Plant Genome Sizing collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual Medicago arabica (the spotted medick; Tracheophyta; Magnoliopsida; Fabales; Fabaceae). The genome sequence is 515.5 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 8 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial and plastid genome assemblies have lengths of 324.47 kilobases and 125.07 kilobases in length, respectively. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 24,619 protein-coding genes.
Goodbye Mr. Postmodernism. Teorie społeczne myślicieli późnej lewicy
Authors: Kuźniarz Bartosz
Published: November 2024

W latach 80. i 90. ubiegłego stulecia pojęcie postmodernizmu budziło skrajne emocje. Po jednej stronie lokowali się kpiarze i skrajni sceptycy, którzy uznali pisarstwo postmodernistyczne za humbug i wytwór intelektualnej mody. Po drugiej stronie znajdowali się ci, którzy w postmodernizm uwierzyli aż za bardzo, widząc w nim festiwal wszelkich różnic, a zarazem nadejście długo wyczekiwanego królestwa wolności. Czym był jednak w swej istocie ów straszny bądź ekscytujący postmodernizm? I czy nie nadszedł już czas, by spojrzeć na tę sprawę odrobinę chłodniejszym okiem? W Polsce wydaje się to tym bardziej wskazane, że tematykę postmodernizmu i ponowoczesności rozwijali w swych pracach głównie anglosascy marksiści, których twórczość została w naszym kraju po 1989 roku niesłusznie, choć ze zrozumiałych względów zaniedbana. Bohaterowie Goodbye Mr. Postmodernism to Perry Anderson, David Harvey, Fredric Jameson, Terry Eagleton oraz Slavoj Žižek, których autor umieszcza pod wspólnym szyldem „późnej lewicy". Książka stanowi zarazem encyklopedyczne wprowadzenie do ich teorii, jak i próbę uchwycenia nowego klimatu lewicowej myśli, która manierze wiecznej emancypacji oraz upodobaniu do kolorowych marginesów (wspólnym postmodernizmowi i "nowej", zrodzonej pod koniec lat sześćdziesiątych lewicy) coraz częściej przeciwstawia skłonność do odpowiedzialnej etycznie refleksji.
¿Es bíblica la noción de presciencia?
Authors: Prieto Lucas P.
Published: November 2024

¿Conoce Dios los futuros contingentes? Recientemente ha aparecido una nueva explicación teológica que quiere responder a este problema negado su raíz: Dios no conoce el futuro porque este está abierto en sentido fuerte. Santo Tomás, por su parte, se enfrentó también a este problema y respondió a él recurriendo al presente de la eternidad divina que, existiendo toda simultáneamente, abarca todos los tiempos. Ahora bien, ¿cuáles son las motivaciones teológicas que subyacen en cada postura? Nos ocuparemos del problema de la presciencia divina en este trabajo para ejemplificar el método teológico de santo Tomás.
Spiski etnoperformans (cz. 2)
Authors: Barański Janusz
Published: November 2024

Przedmiotem artykułu są dwie imprezy regionalne, konkurs i przegląd spiskiego folkloru: Spiskie Zwyki i Spiska Watra. Organizowane są każdego roku – odpowiednio – zimą i latem na Zamku Dunajec w Niedzicy i w Gminnym Ośrodku Kultury w Łapszach Niżnych z siedzibą w Niedzicy. Dyskutowany region jest niewielkim fragmentemkrainy historycznej, której główna część znajduje się na terytorium Słowacji. Stanowił przez setki lat część Królestwa Węgier, stąd jego specyfika i odrębność kulturowa. W świetle przeprowadzonych badań etnograficznych analizowane imprezy należą do praktyk typuetnoperformansu, który łączy aspekt artystyczny ze społecznym. Pierwszy jest wyrazem regionalnej estetyki i artyzmu (folklor słowno-muzyczny, taniec, strój regionalny), drugi – rytualnego charakteru imprez służących procesom tożsamościowym. W świetle poczynionych ustaleń omawiane przypadki etnoperformansu reprezentują spuściznę kulturową w trybie dziedzictwa. W tym rozumieniu są formą odmienną od dawniejszej tradycji i można je uznać za rodzaj metakulturowej praktyki oraz metakulturowego komentarza wobec kultury regionalnej.
Stani – kilka słów o internetowych fandomach muzycznych
Authors: Rutkowska Maria
Published: November 2024

Wraz z rozwojem nowych mediów środowiska fanowskie uległy rozproszeniu i upowszechnieniu. Bycie fanem muzyki jest powszechnie używanym kolokwializmem. W związku z tym od ponad dziesięciu lat w środowisku fanów muzyki możemy zaobserwować zmianę dyskursywną w postaci wyłonienia się z kategorii stana. W tym artykule autorka podejmuje się prześledzenia tej zmiany oraz zastanawia się, dlaczego fani muzyki czuli potrzebę, aby ta nowa kategoria zaistniała. W tym celu przedstawia afektywne i konsumenckie zaangażowanie stanów, które może stanowić wyróżnik pomiędzy stanami a fanami.
The Language That Drives Engagement: A Systematic Large-scale Analysis of Headline Experiments
Authors: Banerjee Akshina , Urminsky Oleg
Published: November 2024

We use a large-scale data set of thousands of field experiments conducted on Upworthy.com , an online media platform, to investigate the cognitive, motivational, affective, and grammatical factors implementable in messages that increase engagement with online content.
Supervisão de enfermagem hospitalar: do ingresso na função ao planejamento organizacional
Authors: Santos Yago Hernandez Ferreira dos , Bolina Alisson Fernandes , Bueno Alexandre de Assis , Paranaguá Thatianny Tanferri de Brito , Souza Maressa Aguiar de , Aguiar Shena Carolina da Silva
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: analisar a supervisão de enfermagem hospitalar e suas implicações para o planejamento organizacional, na perspectiva de enfermeiros supervisores. Método: estudo qualitativo-exploratório, conduzido com 13 supervisores de enfermagem de um hospital de ensino na Região Centro-oeste do Brasil, no ano de 2020. Realizada análise temática indutiva. Resultados:  foram identificados três temas: Ingresso na função de supervisão, Competências para a supervisão e Planejamento na função de supervisão. Observou-se perspectiva normativa do planejamento, com enfoque em atividades burocráticas e ausência de participação dos demais integrantes da equipe. Os dados revelaram limitações relacionadas à descrição de um referencial para sistematizar a prática do planejamento. Conclusão: na percepção dos enfermeiros supervisores, os incentivos e o fomento à capacitação são fundamentais para o ingresso na função, o que permite e exige o desenvolvimento de competências. O processo é pouco democrático, carece de capacitação e, por conseguinte, reflete na capacidade responsiva do planejamento da unidade.
The psychological is crucial: why Erich Fromm’s understanding of human needs contributes to defeating fascism
Authors: Braune Joan
Published: November 2024

This article uses Erich Fromm’s list of five fundamental human needs discussed in The Sane Society (1955) to critically explore the role of psychological needs and desires in the concerning resurgence of fascist and far-right movements globally and especially in the United States. First, the article addresses the hesitancy expressed by some activists and theorists about engaging psychology in relation to fascism. I critique the view that such psychological inquiry undermines structural critique of society. I demonstrate that unproductive and harmful attempts to meet human needs outlined by Fromm are contributing to fascist resurgence and also to the rise of the ‘fascistic’ mass shooter, who must be understood as both influenced by structural/political dynamics and by the personal attempt to resolve the ‘existential’ problems of human life described by Fromm.
Making St Brigit real in the early middle ages
Authors: Johnston Elva
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Brigit of Kildare is the first Irish saint to be celebrated in detail by Irish writers. Her cult enjoyed great depth and popularity. Nevertheless, Brigit's very existence has been doubted; she has been recast as a pre-Christian goddess despite an overwhelming disparity in evidence. This paper reframes our approaches to the origins of her cult through examining how the earliest writers understood her and made her real for their audiences, real through shaping her sanctity, her historicity and her family relationships. They placed Brigit along a gender continuum where sanctity intersected biology. Yet, Brigit has been treated differently to Irish male saints, becoming a secondary character in her own biographies, reductively overshadowed by a barely attested goddess. It is time for a revitalised appreciation of Brigit as an actual woman, depicted by her first hagiographers as pushing against the grain of an elitist and patriarchal society.
Enhanced Lissajous-based algorithm for phase-measuring in two-step phase-shifting fringe projection profilometry
Authors: Liao Maolin , Guo Hongwei
Published: November 2024

Two-step phase-shifting profilometry is widely used in many applications due to its good trade-off between measurement resolution and efficiency. In this technique, however, it is not easy to accurately calculate fringe phases from only two available fringe patterns, especially when these patterns have nonuniform or even discontinuous background intensities, modulations, or fringe phases. To solve this problem, we propose in this paper an enhanced Lissajous-based algorithm. With it, intensity pairs within the neighborhood of a point form a Lissajous trajectory if their backgrounds and modulations are assumed to be constant. Fitting this Lissajous curve enables us to roughly estimate fringe phase at this point, and a linearized algorithm is suggested here for alleviating the computational complexity. After that, we provide a least-squares method to correct the errors caused by the uneven background intensities by modeling them as linearly varying values within the neighborhood. Further, from the residuals of the above step, the edges and discontinuities in the fringe patterns, where a piecewise algorithm generally have large errors, can be detected. The fringe phases at these edges are recalculated by using forward or backward extrapolations. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate this proposed algorithm to have a relatively high measurement accuracy in two-step phase-shifting fringe projection profilometry.
Cerebral blood flow patterns induced by photoactivation based on laser speckle contrast imaging
Authors: Zhu Xuan , Shi Liang , Li Pengcheng , Lu Jinling
Published: November 2024

Neurovascular coupling (NVC) is crucial for maintaining brain function and holds significant implications for diagnosing neurological disorders. However, the neuron type and spatial specificity in NVC remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the spatiotemporal characteristics of local cerebral blood flow (CBF) driven by excitatory (VGLUT2) and inhibitory (VGAT) neurons in the mouse sensorimotor cortex. By integrating optogenetics, wavefront modulation technology, and laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI), we achieved precise, spatially targeted photoactivation of type-specific neurons and real-time CBF monitoring. We observed three distinct CBF response patterns across different locations: unimodal, bimodal, and biphasic. While unimodal and bimodal patterns were observed in different locations for both neuron types, the biphasic pattern was exclusive to inhibitory neurons. Our results reveal the spatiotemporal complexity of NVC across different neuron types and demonstrate our method's ability to analyze this complexity in detail.
Controlling the orientation of ellipsoidal nanoparticles using fractional vector beams
Authors: Zhang Xiaohe , Zhu Liuhao , Gong Liping , Gu Bing
Published: November 2024

In the field of nanotechnology, achieving precise manipulation of ellipsoidal nanoparticles presents a significant challenge because it requires controlling five degrees of freedom, including three spatial dimensions (position in 3D space) and two angular dimensions (polar and azimuthal angles). In this work, we investigate both the optical forces and trapping potentials on an ellipsoidal nanoparticle produced by tightly focused fractional vector beams (FVBs). Unlike the integer vector beams (IVBs), which manipulate only three spatial dimensions of ellipsoidal particles, FVB with an initial phase not only provides spatial position control but also enables precise manipulation of spatial orientation. Moreover, by adjusting the topological index and initial phase of the incident FVBs, arbitrary orientations in the 3D space of ellipsoidal nanoparticles can be achieved. Our results may find interesting applications in microfluidics, biomedical engineering, and nanotechnology.
Small target reconstruction method for array GM-APD LiDAR under a low SBR condition
Authors: Ma Le , Sun Jianfeng , Lu Wei , Zhou Xin , Lu Jie , Liu Feng
Published: November 2024

Extracting targets under high noise conditions, particularly for small and weak targets at long distances, presents a significant challenge. In this context, a noise suppression method grounded in variable mode extraction (VME) is proposed. This approach separates signal and noise in the echo based on differences in the center frequency of the mode. By combining the residual signals from Geiger-mode avalanche photodiode (GM-APD) laser imaging, detection, and ranging (LiDAR) systems, the method enhances the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the response distribution, enabling accurate target position extraction. The processing performance of this method was validated through simulation analysis and real experimental data. When the average signal-to-background light ratio (SBR) of the echo reaches 0.006, the probability of successfully extracting a single-pixel target signal at a distance of 2.5 km in a sky background can exceed 90%.
Dual-comb Yb:CALGO laser with a polarization multiplexed cavity and pump
Authors: Tang Ruixin , Luo Ziyu , Li Pengfei , Ying Pengrun , Xie Haiyang , Xu Siyuan , Bai Jintao , Liu Hui
Published: November 2024

Single-cavity dual-comb lasers are considered appealing solutions for dual-comb spectroscopy. However, achieving a wide and flexible adjustment of repetition rate differences in the dual-combs with common bulk gain crystals remains challenging. Here, we report a dual-comb Yb:CALGO laser with a polarization multiplexed cavity and pump with two alternative configurations. The repetition rate difference of our dual-comb laser can be easily tuned from zero up to the MHz range. The standard deviation of the repetition rate difference is suppressed to be 0.4 Hz over 5 minutes, though the drift of the repetition rate of each comb is as large as closing to 80 Hz. We achieve simultaneous operations of two combs at approximately 1044 nm with pulse durations of 188 fs and 269 fs, and average powers of 1.6 W and 1.5 W, respectively. We demonstrate the capabilities of this system by utilizing the free-running setup to measure dual-comb spectra and perform asynchronous optical sampling on a saturable absorber. This work provides an alternative way to achieve a simple, compact, all-solid-state dual-comb femtosecond laser with flexible control over the repetition rate difference.
Sub-picosecond mode-locked laser operation in a femtosecond-laser-inscribed Yb:CaF2 channel waveguide
Authors: Kim Deok Woo , Won Seungjai , Park Ji-Hoon , Kim Young-Jin , Rotermund Fabian
Published: November 2024

We present the successful demonstration of both Q-switched mode-locked (QSML) and continuous-wave mode-locked (CWML) operation in a femtosecond-laser-inscribed Yb:CaF2 double-track waveguide (WG) structure. A semiconductor saturable absorber output coupler (SOC) was used as the mode locker with fine tuning of the intracavity group delay dispersion (GDD) achieved through the Gires-Tournois interference (GTI) effect induced by an air gap. To ensure sufficient fluence on the saturable absorber, the cavity was extended to 50 cm by inserting two lenses between the SOC and WG, resulting in a repetition frequency of ∼300 MHz. In the QSML regime, the laser exhibited an amplitude modulation period of 65 kHz within Q-switched pulses of 3-µs duration. Notably, in the purely CWML regime, the laser generated a maximum output power of 51 mW near 1036 nm with a pulse width of 979 fs.
Fast and light-efficient wavefront shaping with a MEMS phase-only light modulator
Authors: Rocha José C. A. , Wright Terry , Būtaitė Unė G. , Carpenter Joel , Gordon George S. D. , Phillips David B.
Published: November 2024

Over the last two decades, spatial light modulators (SLMs) have revolutionized our ability to shape optical fields. They grant independent dynamic control over thousands of degrees-of-freedom within a single light beam. In this work we test a new type of SLM, known as a phase-only light modulator (PLM), that blends the high efficiency of liquid crystal SLMs with the fast switching rates of binary digital micro-mirror devices (DMDs). A PLM has a 2D mega-pixel array of micro-mirrors. The vertical height of each micro-mirror can be independently adjusted with 4-bit precision. Here we provide a concise tutorial on the operation and calibration of a PLM. We demonstrate arbitrary pattern projection, aberration correction, and control of light transport through complex media. We show high-speed wavefront shaping through a multimode optical fiber – scanning over 2000 points at 1.44 kHz. We make available our custom high-speed PLM control software library developed in C++. As PLMs are based upon micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) technology, they are polarization agnostic, and possess fundamental switching rate limitations equivalent to that of DMDs – with operation at up to 10 kHz anticipated in the near future. We expect PLMs will find high-speed light shaping applications across a range of fields including adaptive optics, microscopy, optogenetics and quantum optics.
Energy enhancement of Nd,Sc:YAG crystal in passively Q-switched lasers
Authors: Huang Conghui , Li Shanming , Zhao Chengchun , Hang Yin
Published: November 2024

We report on the laser performance of Nd,Sc:YAG (yttrium aluminum garnet), for the first time, to our knowledge. In this study, 10 at.% Sc3+ ions were doped into the Nd:YAG crystal to form the Nd,Sc:YAG crystal, which improves the saturation flux while nearly maintaining the excellent properties of the Nd:YAG crystal. The continuous-wave (CW) and passively Q-switched (PQS) laser performances of the Nd,Sc:YAG crystal at 1064 nm were investigated. The CW output power reached 4.5 W at the absorbed pump power of 8.07 W, with a slope efficiency of 63.1% and an optical-to-optical efficiency of 55.7%. A stable PQS laser was achieved employing Cr4+:YAG as a saturable absorber (SA). The maximum average output power attained was 1.84 W, with a slope of 23.5%. The pulse width, pulse energy, and frequency were 17.0 ns, 69.2 µJ, and 26.6 kHz, respectively. Compared to the Nd:YAG crystal, the pulse energy of the Nd,Sc:YAG crystal was enhanced by approximately 1.7 times. These results show that the Nd,Sc:YAG crystal is a promising laser material with larger energy storage capacities, making it suitable for the application of high-energy lasers (HELs) with high repetition rate.
Single-shot 3 × 3 Mueller matrix microscopy with color polarization encoding
Authors: Demczylo Roman , Fernández Ariel
Published: November 2024

Snapshot retrieval of linear Stokes parameters in polarized light
microscopy has benefited from recent advances in nanotechnology which
have made polarization image sensors commercially available. However,
real-time retrieval of the 3 × 3 Mueller matrix
(MM) is limited by the need for time-sequential change in polarization
states in the input. In the present Letter, we propose a
cost-effective technique for the real-time retrieval of the
3 × 3 Mueller matrix by encoding linear
polarization states in each of the three color channels of the source
and analyzing light passing through the sample using a color
polarization sensor placed in the imaging plane of a transmission
microscope. Validation experiments for samples under real-time imaging
conditions are presented. To the best of our knowledge, this is the
first report on the snapshot 3 × 3 Mueller matrix
element retrieval in polarized light microscopy by combining division
of focal plane (DoFP) color polarimetric sensing and polarization
color encoding of the source.
Ptychographic wavefront cameras
Authors: Chen Ni , Brady David
Published: November 2024

We introduce a snapshot wavefront camera capable of reconstructing the
complex field of an object with near quantum-limited accuracy. This
system incorporates a diffraction grating at the entrance aperture and
an array of cameras positioned to align with the grating orders,
capturing the field with varying impulse responses. The camera
effectively reconstructs both the amplitude and phase of the object.
Key performance factors include the aperture size, the number of
apertures, and the overlap ratio between adjacent apertures. The
minimal imaging and computational performance could be obtained using
a 3 × 3 camera array configuration.
Near-infrared double-layer cascaded metasurface for beam shaping
Authors: Tan Peng , Liu Yingjie , Hao Jiabin , Wang Jian , Wang Ruozhou , Han Qiqi , Xu Zhaopeng
Published: November 2024

The vast applicability of collimated flat-topped beam shapers, predominantly constructed from traditional lens elements, is met with challenges when the scale is less than wavelength. Metasurfaces have an excellent ability for optical manipulation, which can provide a promising approach to flat optics. Here, a metasurface-based Gaussian beam shaper is designed to combine the transmission phase principle with geometric transformation methods, which can reshape a 1550 nm Gaussian beam into a flat-topped beam with a uniformity of 84.39%. Furthermore, a cascaded metasurface beam shaper design is proposed to address the significant divergence in the flat-topped beam obtained from the single-layer metasurface. Simulation results indicate the output beam exhibits both uniform intensity and phase distributions over a considerable transmission distance, effectively minimizing the divergence of the output beam. This research has potential applications in various fields, such as optical antennas, fiber optics, and other optical systems.