bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of interleukin-36α and interleukin-38 with type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Nassurat Shahad W. , Salman Isam N. , Ad’hiah Ali H.
Published: February 2024

Background

Interleukin (IL)-36α and IL-38, two novel cytokines of the IL-1 family, have recently been proposed to have a pathophysiological significance in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, there is a paucity of information regarding their association with diabetic neuropathy (DNP). Therefore, this study aimed to explore these interleukins in T2DM without and with DNP, referred to as T2D and DNP, respectively. The predicted interaction of IL-36α and IL-38 with other proteins was also analyzed bioinformatically. In this study, 85 T2D patients, 21 DNP patients, and 109 controls were recruited. Serum IL-36α and IL-38 concentrations were measured with ELISA kits.

Results

Median (interquartile range) of IL-36α concentrations was significantly greater in T2D and DNP patients compared with controls (62 [54-84] and 52 [45-56] vs. 44 [36-47] pg/mL, respectively; p < 0.001). T2D patients also exhibited significantly greater concentrations of IL-36α than DNP patients (p = 0.004). IL-38 concentrations were significantly greater in T2D and DNP patients compared with controls (208 [149-249] and 200 [130-253] vs. 64 [47-92] pg/mL, respectively; p < 0.001), while T2D and DNP patients showed no significant differences in IL-38 concentrations (p = 0.509). Both cytokines were reliable biomarkers in differentiating diabetic patients from controls, but differentiation performance was better in T2D (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.921 and 0.951, respectively) than in DNP (AUC = 0.881 and 0.844, respectively). Up-regulated IL-36α and IL-38 concentrations were significantly associated with a higher risk of T2D (37.92- and 29.97-fold, respectively) and DNP (10.11- and 32.47-fold, respectively). IL-36α was positively correlated with IL-38 in T2D (correlation coefficient [rs] = 0.487; p < 0.001), but a stronger correlation was found in DNP (rs = 0.683; p < 0.001). IL-36α and IL-38 showed predicted interactions with several cytokines and cytokine receptors of the IL-1 family.

Conclusions

IL-36α and IL-38 concentrations were upregulated in the serum of T2D and DNP patients. Both cytokines were indicated to be potential discriminating biomarkers associated with higher risk of T2D and DNP. Targeting the axis of their interaction with other cytokines of the IL-1 family may be important for understanding the pathophysiology of T2D and DNP.
Computational tools for quantifying actin filament numbers, lengths, and bundling
Authors: Sherer Laura A. , Mahanta Biswaprakash , Courtemanche Naomi
Published: February 2024

The actin cytoskeleton is a dynamic filamentous network that assembles into specialized structures to enable cells to perform essential processes. Direct visualization of fluorescently-labeled cytoskeletal proteins has provided numerous insights into the dynamic processes that govern the assembly of actin-based structures. However, accurate analysis of these experiments is often complicated by the interdependent and kinetic natures of the reactions involved. It is often challenging to disentangle these processes to accurately track their evolution over time. Here, we describe two programs written in the MATLAB programming language that facilitate counting, length measurements, and quantification of bundling of actin filaments visualized in fluorescence micrographs. To demonstrate the usefulness of our programs, we describe their application to the analysis of two representative reactions: (1) a solution of pre-assembled filaments under equilibrium conditions, and (2) a reaction in which actin filaments are crosslinked together over time. We anticipate that these programs can be applied to extract equilibrium and kinetic information from a broad range of actin-based reactions, and that their usefulness can be expanded further to investigate the assembly of other biopolymers.
Σχεδιασμός του χάρτη υγείας της 3ης και 4ης Υγειονομικής Περιφέρειας της χώρας, με βάση τον έλεγχο της ροής των ασθενών στην Κλινική της Στοματικής και Γναθοπροσωπικής Χειρουργικής
Authors: Βενέτη Αικατερίνη
Published: February 2024

Η παρούσα διατριβή εστιάζει στην καταγραφή της ροής των ασθενών της Στοματικής και Γναθοπροσωπικής κλινικής του Γ.Ν.Θ «Γ. Παπανικολάου» κατά τη χρονική περίοδο 2015-2020, από διάφορες περιοχές της Βορείου Ελλάδος, που προσέρχονται αυτόβουλα ή μετά από παραπομπή από ιδιώτες ιατρούς, οδοντιάτρους ή από κλινικές άλλων νοσηλευτικών ιδρυμάτων. Σκοπός αυτής είναι να καταδείξει την αναγκαιότητα του υπάρχοντος Υγειονομικού Χάρτη, όσον αφορά τη συγκεκριμένη ειδικότητα. Η συλλογή των δεδομένων της έρευνας έγινε τόσο από το επίσημο αρχείο της κλινικής όσο και από τη συλλογή ερωτηματολογίων ικανοποίησης των ασθενών της. Από την ανάλυση των δεδομένων διαπιστώθηκε αύξηση του εισαγωγών κατά τη χρονική περίοδο 2018-2020 σε σχέση με τη χρονική περίοδο 2015-2017, ενώ παράλληλα αναδείχθηκε πως τα κακοήθη νεοπλάσματα και οι λοιμώξεις αυξήθηκαν κατά τη δεύτερη χρονική περίοδο. Επιπλέον, από την έρευνα προέκυψε πως οι αρμόδιοι για το σχεδιασμό του Υγειονομικού Χάρτη, θα πρέπει να λαμβάνουν υπόψη τους όχι μόνο τις υγειονομικές ανάγκες των κατοίκων της περιοχής αλλά και τον γεωγραφικό χαρακτήρα της περιοχής. Λέξεις – κλειδιά: Ικανοποίηση, πολιτική υγείας, ροή ασθενών, στοματικές παθήσεις, Υγειονομικός Χάρτης
Which way to social change compas?
Authors: Οικονομάκης Λεωνίδας
Published: February 2024

Η διατριβή αυτή ασχολείται με τη μελέτη των διεκδικήσεων των ιθαγενικών κινημάτων των Ζαπατίστας στην Πολιτεία Τσιάπας στο Μεξικό, και των καλλιεργητών φύλλου κόκας στην Επαρχία Τσαπάρε στη Βολιβία στην προσπάθειά τους να επιτύχουν τον κοινωνικό μετασχηματισμό. Μέσω της συγκριτικής μελέτης των δυο αυτών κινημάτων που βασίστηκε σε εθνογραφική έρευνα πεδίου άνω των δυο ετών, υποστηρίζω οτι πέραν των πολιτικών ευκαιριών, για να κατανοήσουμε την επιλογή πολιτικής στρατηγικής προς την κοινωνική αλλαγή θα πρέπει να δούμε κυρίως διεργασίες που λαμβάνουν χώρα στο εσωτερικό των κινημάτων όπως: απήχηση άλλων παραδειγμάτων από τον ίδιο ή άλλο τόπο/χρόνο, την διαμάχη για την ιδεολογική ηγεμονία και το ρόλο των οργανικών και μη ιδεολόγων των κινημάτων, και τις διαδικασίες κοινωνικοποίησης της ηγεμονικής επιλογής στις βάσεις.
Exploring emotional, behavioural, and cognitive dimensions of young citizens’ political engagement in uncertain times
Authors: Karageorgou Katerina , Madoglou Anna , Kalamaras Dimitris
Published: February 2024

Political engagement (PE) is approached as a complex concept that incorporates cognitive, behavioural, and emotional aspects. This study aims to investigate the suggested typology of PE (partisan, apartisan, stand-by, apolitical, antipolitical), and to identify those variables (cognitive, emotional, behavioural) that contribute to the appearance of each type. Surveys are conducted in the UK, France, and Greece, as these countries both represent and experience different types of crises. Participants (N=1.005), from 18 to 35 years old, were classified into the types according to their self-positioning on PE typology. Five models of logistic regression were applied to our samples. The five types of PE were used as the criterion variables, whereas the emotional (emotions towards politics: enthusiasm, anxiety, aversion, disgust, disappointment, indifference; emotions towards crisis: fear/frustration, trust/optimism, anger/indignation), the cognitive (political interest: interest in politics, interest in societal issues), and the behavioural dimensions (political participation: non-digital political activism, activities of socio-political concerns, digital political activism, normative collective action, active political counter-argumentation, and pro-social activism) as predictors. Results showed that different forms of political interest, different repertoires of political behaviours, and different sets of emotions contribute to the appearance of each type of PE. Furthermore, PE types are interpreted through the complexity of modern societies. Especially for apolitical and anti-political types of engagement, discussion suggests that they could be considered as forms of political identities in post-democratic societies of developing crises and uncertainty.
Plotly.NET: A fully featured charting library for .NET programming languages
Authors: Schneider Kevin , Venn Benedikt , Mühlhaus Timo
Published: February 2024

Data visualization is integral for exploratory data analysis and data presentation. Consequently, every programming environment suitable for data analysis needs a feature-rich visualization library. In this paper, we present Plotly.NET - a fully featured charting library for the .NET ecosystem. Plotly.NET requires little ceremony to use, provides multiple API (application programming interface) layers for both low-code and maximum customizability, and can be used in many different visualization workflows - from interactive scripting and notebooks to user interface applications. Plotly.NET brings the charting capabilities of plotly.js to the .NET ecosystem, successfully combining the flexibility of the plotly grammar with the type-safety and expressiveness of .NET.
Comparative evaluation of the effect of 2% graphene oxide and 5% hydroxyapatite nanoparticles in isolation and in combination on micro tensile bond strength of 5th generation adhesive
Authors: Kriplani Simran , Sedani Shweta
Published: February 2024

Background Graphene is the thinnest, strongest, and stiffest imaginable material. The biocompatible property of graphene oxide can initiate and facilitate cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation of periodontal ligament, osteogenic, and oral epithelial cells. Furthermore, the antibiofilm and anti-adhesion properties of graphene oxide in the prevention of dental biofilm infections, dental caries, and dental erosion as well as for implant surface modification and as an anti-quorum sensing agent. Composites are the most often utilized materials for restoration in the field of dentistry due to adhesive resins' improved mechanical and cosmetic properties. To safeguard the dentin and prevent dental cavities, dentin adhesives are utilized to affix hydrophobic resin composites to hydrophilic dentin tissue. Materials and Method Dental adhesives have a harder time adhering to dentin because it contains more water and is less mineralized than enamel. This makes the method more sensitive. Result As a result, it was chosen to assess and contrast the impact of 5% Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and 2% Graphene oxide nanoparticles, both separately and together, on the Micro tensile bond strength of 5th generation adhesive. Conclusion Graphene oxide is the most versatile form of Graphite in structural and functional configuration. Graphene oxide possesses extraordinary physical, chemical, optical, electrical and mechanical properties. Among the graphene family nanomaterials, the reduced form of Graphite adding the oxygenated functional group to the structure increases the surface area and therefore exhibits enviable excellent interaction ability with metal and ions as well as organic species. Graphene oxide in dentistry has provided outstanding results in antimicrobial action, regenerative dentistry, bone tissue engineering, drug delivery, physicochemical properties, enhancement of dental biomaterials and oral cancer treatment.
From the past to the present, optical coherence tomography in glaucoma: a practical guide to a common disease
Authors: Zawadzka Izabela , Konopińska Joanna
Published: February 2024

Glaucoma comprises a group of disorders of the optic nerve that cause degenerative optic neuropathy, characterised by failure of neuroretinal rim tissue in the optic nerve head, retinal nerve fibre layer, and retinal ganglion cells. Glaucoma imposes a serious epidemiological threat, with an steady increase in the global number of cases. In the current ophthalmological practice, glaucoma is diagnosed via a series of examinations, including routine funduscopic examination, ocular tonometry, gonioscopy, measurement of the visual field, and assessment using the optical coherence tomography (OCT) technique. Nowadays, the OCT technique helps in systematising the diagnostic pathway and is a basic diagnostic tool for detection of early glaucomatous eye changes. It is also vital in assessing progression and monitoring treatment results of patients. The aim of this review was to present the OCT technique as a main tool in diagnosing and monitoring glaucoma.
A review on diabetes mellitus: complications, synthetic anti-diabetic agents and herbal treatment
Authors: Tella Toluwani , Pohl Carolina , Igor Kovalchuk
Published: February 2024

Background Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder with multiple symptoms and complications. The management of these conditions involve the use of synthetic anti-diabetic agents, natural products and medicinal plants. Synthetic anti-diabetic agents are associated with side effects whereas medicinal plants have minimal side effects and are less expensive. The aim of this work is to highlight various (i) complications associated with diabetes (ii) synthetic anti-diabetic agents used for treatment (iii) medicinal plants as anti-diabetic agents. Methods Electronic databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Springer, Pub Med, Medline and Scopus were searched to identify complications linked with diabetes, synthetic anti-diabetic agents, and herbs used in the management of diabetes mellitus. Results The present article is an updated review of the published literature on types of diabetes and their complications, synthetic anti-diabetic drugs and medicinal herbs used for management of diabetes. Conclusions Given the complications associated with diabetes mellitus, a search for medicinal herbs with anti-diabetic properties will be useful in the management of this disease.
Exploring and analyzing the role of hybrid spectrum sensing methods in 6G-based smart health care applications
Authors: Kumar Arun , Kaur Raminder , Gaur Nishant , Nanthaamornphong Aziz
Published: February 2024

Background Researchers are focusing their emphasis on quick and real-time healthcare and monitoring systems because of the contemporary modern world’s rapid technological improvements. One of the best options is smart healthcare, which uses a variety of on-body and off-body sensors and gadgets to monitor patients’ health and exchange data with hospitals and healthcare professionals in real time. Utilizing the primary user (PU) spectrum, cognitive radio (CR) can be highly useful for efficient and intelligent healthcare systems to send and receive patient health data. Methods In this work, we propose a method that combines energy detection (ED) and cyclostationary (CS) spectrum sensing (SS) algorithms. This method was used to test spectrum sensing in CR-based smart healthcare systems. The proposed ED-CS in cognitive radio systems improves the precision of the spectrum sensing. Owing to its straightforward implementation, ED is initially used to identify the idle spectrum. If the ED cannot find the idle spectrum, the signals are found using CS-SS, which uses the cyclic statistical properties of the signals to separate the main users from the interference. Results In the simulation analysis, the probability of detection (Pd), probability of a false alarm (Pfa), power spectral density (PSD), and bit error rate (BER) of the proposed ED-CS is compared to those of the traditional Matched Filter (MF), ED, and CS. Conclusions The results indicate that the suggested strategy improves the performance of the framework, making it more appropriate for smart healthcare applications.
Defining tuberculosis stigma: a protocol for a systematic review, analysis, and thematic synthesis
Authors: Huff Dougles L. , Datta Sumona , Evans Carlton A.
Published: February 2024

Background Throughout recorded history, tuberculosis is believed to have killed more people than any other infectious disease. Despite the World Health Organization’s determination that preventing and controlling tuberculosis will require understanding and reducing tuberculosis stigma, we noted strikingly diverse definitions and lack of consensus in describing tuberculosis stigma. Furthermore, we found no systematic reviews in the existing tuberculosis stigma literature characterizing, comparing, or assessing tuberculosis stigma definitions or their consistency. To address this knowledge gap, we intend to conduct a systematic review of existing tuberculosis stigma definitions used in the academic research literature, and through quantitative synthesis of the words and phrases contained within those definitions, identify themes that characterize tuberculosis stigma. Methods Studies containing definitions of tuberculosis stigma will be identified by searching two electronic databases -- PubMed and PsycINFO – using the Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms “stigma[MeSH Major Topic] AND tuberculosis[MeSH Major Topic]”. Study inclusion criteria will consist of: a) original research published in English, (due to logistical constraints); b) qualitative studies using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions; c) quantitative studies including descriptive studies and trials, questionnaires, and cross-sectional surveys; and d) mixed method studies. Included studies will be searched for definitions of tuberculosis stigma using the search term “defin”. Descriptive words and phrases will be extracted from definitions and categorized into themes, based on noun, verb, adjective, and adverb derivatives; and synonym definitions. Predominant themes will then be identified and further categorized as emotion, thought, or behaviour themes. Relative frequencies of definitions, and definition words and phrases, will be compared quantitively. Conclusions This systematic review and thematic analysis is intended to characterize academic definitions of tuberculosis stigma and identify predominant tuberculosis stigma themes contained within those definitions. Registration PROSPERO (CRD42023440978; 23 July 2023).
The genome sequence of the common pond skater, Gerris lacustris (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Crowley Liam M. , Telfer Mark G. , Livermore Laurence ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   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: February 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Gerris lacustris (the common pond skater; Arthropoda; Insecta; Hemiptera; Gerridae). The genome sequence is 937.5 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 11 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.44 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 26,923 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of a muscid fly, Hydrotaea cyrtoneurina (Zetterstedt, 1845)
Authors: Falk Steven , Grzywacz Andrzej ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   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: February 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Hydrotaea cyrtoneurina (muscid fly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Diptera; Muscidae). The genome sequence is 575.2 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 6 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 19.6 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of the Centre-barred Sallow, Atethmia centrago (Haworth, 1809)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Holland Peter W. H. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   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: February 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Atethmia centrago (the Centre-barred Sallow; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 926.6 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.57 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 21,345 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of the Peppered Grey, Eudonia truncicolella (Stainton, 1849)
Authors: Lees David C. ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   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: February 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Eudonia truncicolella (the Peppered Grey; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Crambidae). The genome sequence is 499.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 30 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.38 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of the black-footed limpet, Patella depressa (Pennant, 1777)
Authors: Hawkins Stephen J. , Mieszkowska Nova , Mrowicki Rob ,   Marine Biological Association Genome Acquisition Lab,   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: February 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual Patella depressa (the black-footed limpet; Mollusca; Gastropoda; Patellogastropoda; Patellidae). The genome sequence is 683.7 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 9 chromosomal pseudomolecules. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 20,502 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of the Dotted Grey Groundling, Athrips mouffetella (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Boyes Clare ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   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: February 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Athrips mouffetella (the Dotted Grey Groundling; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Gelechiidae). The genome sequence is 869.7 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.23 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 22,889 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of a metallic wood-boring beetle, Agrilus cyanescens (Ratzeburg, 1837)
Authors: Telfer Mark G. , Phillips Dominic ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   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: February 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Agrilus cyanescens (metallic wood-boring beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Buprestidae). The genome sequence is 292.3 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 10 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.91 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of Vine’s Rustic moth, Hoplodrina ambigua (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Holland Peter W.H. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   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: February 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Hoplodrina ambigua (Vine’s Rustic; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 438.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.39 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 18,878 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of a ground beetle, Agonum fuliginosum (Panzer, 1809)
Authors: Crowley Liam M. , Telfer Mark G. , Escalona Hermes E. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   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: February 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Agonum fuliginosum (ground beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Carabidae). The genome sequence is 695.9 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 19 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 19.27 kilobases in length.
effectiveness of natural probiotics in food
Authors: Urbaś Michał , Kościołek Dawid , Kępczyk Martyna , Kościołek Aleksandra , Surowiecka Kaja , Misiak Jakub , Ojdana Miłosz , Szalbot Konrad , Tokarski Mikołaj , Czchowski Konrad
Published: February 2024

Introduction and purposeThe term "probiotic" rooted in Latin, signifies 'for life,' reflecting the historical use of fermented products for therapeutic purposes. Defined by the WHO as living microorganisms conferring health benefits when consumed adequately, probiotics, mainly bacteria from Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera, play a vital role in maintaining gut microbiota balance, regulating digestion, supporting the immune system and influencing mental and cardiovascular health. While browsing many websites devoted to healthy eating or popular science topics, we often came across the topic of probiotic food without any confirmation by scientific research. The aim of this paper is to confirm or exclude the presence of probiotics in popular foods.

Material and method

In our work, we will look at individual products with an emphasis on verifying whether the microorganisms they contain meet the WHO criteria of probiotics.

Results

Our review managed to prove the probiotic effect of almost all presented food, except for miso. By reviewing many articles, we shed a lot of uncertainty on the repeated myth about the lack of probiotic effect of cucumbers preserved in vinegar  and what is more, we found scientific assumptions about the probiotic effect of vinegar itself.

Conclusion

Fermented food contains numerous strains of bacteria that are resistant to acid, bile and temperature in the human digestive tract and can be effectively used as a source of probiotics.

What is more, compared with probiotics from the pharmacy, pickles provide not only probiotics, but also nutritional values, valuable fiber and vitamins. They seem to be a versatile supplement for our health.
(Des)valorização da educação física escolar no interior do Amazonas:
Authors: Rocha Jamillys Rocha da , Nunes Liara Lira , Oliveira Victor José Machado de
Published: February 2024

A educação física é reconhecida legalmente como um componente curricular obrigatório da educação básica. Contudo, há percalços nos processos de legitimação na escola. Investigamos os imaginários atribuídos à educação física pela comunidade escolar. Especificamente, analisamos as ambiguidades da sua (des)valorização. Uma pesquisa qualitativa foi conduzida em escolas do interior do Amazonas. Cinquenta e três participantes responderam a uma entrevista semiestruturada. Categorizamos os dados a partir de uma análise de conteúdo. Observamos uma espécie de bênção confusa quando a educação física é valorizada como uma disciplina importante, mas que se concentra apenas em momentos de lazer desvinculados de intenção pedagógica. Também, notamos processos de desvalorização evidenciados na falta de professor formado em educação física e na visão da educação física como uma moeda de troca ou apêndice de outras disciplinas. Conclui-se que essa conjuntura pode levar a processos de desinvestimento/abandono pedagógico e que são necessárias políticas públicas que permitam mudar esses cenários.
Educação vacinal no ensino de ciências da natureza:
Authors: Umeres Isabella Carolina , Venturi Tiago
Published: February 2024

No contexto brasileiro pós-pandêmico e de declínio vacinal, o presente estudo teve o objetivo de analisar o tema vacinas nos livros didáticos dos projetos integradores, da área de ciências da natureza e suas tecnologias, recém-chegados na educação básica em função da reforma do ensino médio. Em uma perspectiva qualitativa, por meio de análise de conteúdo, onze livros do Programa Nacional do Livro e do Material Didático (PNLD) de 2021 foram analisados. De forma preocupante, dois não apresentaram qualquer menção ao tema vacinas. Em contrapartida, nove livros destacaram-se em discussões envolvendo as relações entre o tema, a ciência e a sociedade, evidenciando as discussões que envolvem a identificação de informações falsas em redes sociais, decorrentes de movimentos antivacinas. Entretanto, a produção, o funcionamento biológico das vacinas e do processo imunológico do organismo foi deficitário. Assim, defende-se adequações aos editais do PNLD, incentivo aos docentes e à sua formação para aprofundar a temática, em especial suas deficiências, em favor do desenvolvimento de conhecimentos necessário para uma educação sobre vacinas que contribua para os processos de alfabetização científica e midiática e para a formação cidadã na educação em ciências escolar.
Claudio Ulpiano:
Authors: Marques Bárbara Romeika Rodrigues
Published: February 2024

O presente ensaio discute a docência como obra em Claudio Ulpiano (Rio de Janeiro, 1932 – 1999). Para tal, considera o material publicizado das e sobre as aulas – relatos de ex-alunos/as, depoimentos de participantes dos encontros, textos, vídeos, sites, áudios – que possa revelar uma forma de ensinar filosofia característica desse professor. Defende a hipótese de que o acontecimento-aula dinamiza o conceito e, portanto, que o exercício da docência em Ulpiano se constitui como obra reverberada na presença. No devir da ação e da palavra, o encontro/aula possibilita uma extensão com e além do conteúdo partilhado, com e além do espaço-tempo de sua realização. Tomada como obra, a realização da docência viabiliza um legado passível de ser disseminado, continuado e transformado. Assim, da experiência de ensino em Claudio Ulpiano, discorre sobre a busca didática por conjugar inteligência e intuição, razão e emoção, conteúdo e experiência de mundo. Conclui-se com a defesa da obra de docência como indispensável à experiência acadêmica.
Os pequenos curumins:
Authors: Pereira Arliene Stephanie Menezes , Costa Maria Aparecida Alves da , Nascimento Karla Angélica Silva do
Published: February 2024

Esta revisão sistemática objetivou apresentar o estado do conhecimento de estudos sobre crianças indígenas. Para isso, foram realizadas buscas nas seguintes bases de dados: Catálogo de Teses e Dissertações da Capes, portal de periódicos da Capes e portal SciELO, com refinamento nos anos de 2018 a 2022 e sendo ainda aplicados outros critérios de inclusão e exclusão. O resultado após análise resultou em 15 trabalhos, os quais foram divididos em três categorias, quais sejam: cultura, ensinamentos e ludicidade indígenas; educação escolar indígena; e formação de professores indígenas. Concluiu-se que os dados obtidos dão pistas sobre quais pesquisas na área estão sendo realizadas acerca de crianças indígenas, além de poder referenciar futuras pesquisas sobre a temática e ações de desenvolvimento político, social e educacional nesse contexto.
Libras e educação de surdos:
Authors: Lourenço de Amorim Corrêa Ingrid Amorim , Garcia da Silva Elizandra , Prado Dawes Tathianna
Published: February 2024

o ensino das atividades circenses no contexto escolar, utilizando a Língua Brasileira de Sinais. No ano de 2022, foi realizada uma breve pesquisa em portais acadêmicos, constatando a escassez de literatura que embasasse o planejamento de aulas de circo para alunos surdos. Diante dessa escassez, buscamos estabelecer parcerias com projetos de extensão ligados à Universidade Federal Fluminense, como os projetos de pesquisa e extensão Libras, Linguística e Divulgação (LiLinDiv) e Prax-circense. Mesmo diante da escassa literatura foi possível identificar sinais já existentes para as atividades circenses, num quantitativo de 37 sinais as quais foram sistematizadas em um glossário, disponibilizado por meio da Plataforma Libras Acadêmica UFF da Universidade Federal Fluminense. Os dados obtidos neste estudo permitiram identificar lacunas na existência de sinais na Língua Brasileira de Sinais no que se refere às atividades circenses, além da falta de sinais para os procedimentos didático-pedagógicos. Além disso, estimamos que essas sínteses possam fornecer subsídios para futuras pesquisas nessa área.
“Me aceitar homossexual foi a travessia da minha vida mais difícil":
Authors: Cordeiro Janivaldo Pacheco
Published: February 2024

Constituir-se como sujeito/a da diferença é ser atravessado/a por questões outras que o/a reposiciona distante daquilo do que é considerado/a normal, originando movimentos que dificultam o (re)conhecimento e a (auto)aceitação. Nesse movimento, construir-se e desconstruir-se ocorre dentro de sentimentos diversos que vão da negação à aceitação, angústias e sofrimentos. Este texto é resultado de uma pesquisa de doutoramento desenvolvida entre os anos de 2019-2022 que teve, entre outros objetivos, discutir os processos de constituição identitária de sete professores/as transviados/as que trabalham na educação básica do estado da Bahia. Ancorado nas ideias do corpo-território de Eduardo Miranda e “transviad@s” de Berenice Bento enredo os assujeitamentos e as (re)existências de sete docentes autodeclarados/as LGBTQIA+ que contam suas histórias de vida-formação-profissão atravessadas por uma ordem que modelam corpos e atitudes, e cujas pressões e opressões reposicionaram suas singularidades. As histórias foram contadas por meio de entrevista narrativa e de escrita de autorretratos, as quais foram analisadas na perspectiva da teoria de interpretação proposta por Paul Ricoeur. Os resultados apontam nas fragilidades de suas identidades os atravessamentos cisheteronormativos que provocaram medos, recuos e negações de si, bem como adequação ao sistema, produção de performatividades normalizadas e uma vida-formação-profissão demarcada por cuidados, preconceitos e discriminações naturalizadas.
Conhecimento curricular da geometria:
Authors: Junior Afonso , Alves de Azerêdo Maria
Published: February 2024

Este artigo aborda o ensino de matemática, especificamente, o eixo temático geometria. Tem como objetivo discutir o conhecimento curricular da geometria apresentado por professores dos anos iniciais. Metodologicamente, trata-se de uma pesquisa empírica, de caráter qualitativo, realizada com 37 professores dos anos iniciais, cuja interpretação dos dados se baseou nas técnicas de análise de conteúdo. Como resultado, apontou-se para questões importantes sobre o quê, quando e por que ensinar geometria nos anos iniciais de escolarização. Os professores sinalizaram diferentes razões para o ensino da geometria, tais como: a presença do conteúdo geométrico no cotidiano, o desenvolvimento do pensamento geométrico e a apropriação de noções de localização e deslocamento no espaço. Os dados mostraram que o ensino das figuras geométricas emerge como principal conteúdo abordado em sala de aula. Além disso, os professores não demonstraram trabalhar com plantas baixas, croquis e noções de lateralidade (esquerda e direita), o que pode indicar fragilidades no ensino da geometria.
Low anterior resection syndrome: where are we now?
Authors: Bradbury Jay , Privett Tracey
Published: February 2024

The ACPN details some of the key insights from the low anterior resection syndrome plenary session that took place at the ACPGBI conference in Manchester, 2023
Simulation of Long-Term Water Erosion in Rainfed Croplands of Eastern Washington
Authors: Dahal Mugal Samrat , Wu Joan , Dobre Mariana , Ewing Robert P.
Published: February 2024

Highlights

Water erosion in the inland Pacific Northwest was modeled with WEPP for the past (1940–1982) and present (1983–2020).

Water erosion decreased from past to present in the study watersheds.

Major factors are increased adoption of conservation practices and decrease in large precipitation events.

Abstract. Water erosion is an ongoing problem in eastern Washington due to its hilly terrain, highly erodible silt loam soils, rain on thawing soil, and the prevalence of conventional tillage. The region is characterized by a Mediterranean-type climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Three distinct precipitation zones, with annual totals low (<380 mm), intermediate (380–460 mm), and high (>460 mm), dictate the area’s crop rotations. A unique 43-year (1940–1982) dataset of winter erosion measured on multiple agricultural fields in Whitman County, eastern Washington, by Verle Kaiser, a USDA Soil Conservation Service agronomist, showed annual erosion rates averaging 53.8 Mg ha-1, far exceeding the current Natural Resources Conservation Service tolerable limit of 11 Mg ha-1 yr–1 for the soils in the area. Kaiser’s field data allowed us to compare the historical field-measured erosion rates with those simulated by the WEPP (Water Erosion Prediction Project) model. Anthropogenic factors, such as tillage and crop rotation, change with time. Conservation tillage, including reduced- and no-till, has been increasingly adopted in eastern Washington since the mid-1980s. The specific objectives of this study were to (1) apply the WEPP model to simulate soil erosion in eastern Washington and evaluate the interactive effects of climate and management, in addition to topography and soil, on water erosion in the study area, and (2) compare the simulation results with Kaiser’s historical field dataset and elucidate the long-term soil erosion trend. The WEPPcloud interface was used to delineate a watershed within each precipitation zone of the study area. Climate inputs were divided into two periods: the past (1939–1982) and the present (1983–2020). Erosion has noticeably decreased from the past to the present, with WEPP simulated annual erosion averaging 13.5, 34.5, and 52.6 Mg ha-1 for the past, and 9.5, 14.1, and 15.5 Mg ha-1 for the present, in the selected watersheds in the low-, intermediate-, and high-precipitation zones, respectively. The decreasing trend was primarily due to the increased adoption of conservation tillage and crop rotation, as well as a decrease in the number of high-intensity precipitation events in the present climate. Keywords: Inland Pacific Northwest, Soil erosion by water, Temporal trend, WEPP.
Estimating Effective Hydraulic Conductivity (Ke) for the Rangeland Hydrology and Erosion Model (RHEM)
Authors: Al-hamdan Osama Zuhair , Williams C. Jason , Pierson Fred B. , Hernandez Mariano , Nouwakpo S. Kossi
Published: February 2024

Highlights

Effective hydraulic conductivity (Ke
) predictive equations in all RHEM versions have satisfactory performance.

New Ke
predictive equations were developed for RHEM applications over broader rangeland conditions.

Ke
values on most rangelands can be estimated through readily measurable ground cover and soil texture data.

Abstract. Effective hydraulic conductivity (Ke) is an important parameter for the prediction of infiltration and runoff by the Rangeland Hydrology and Erosion Model (RHEM). Three sets of equations to predict Ke have previously been used in RHEM. These equations are mainly based on rainfall simulation data representing undisturbed sites and have not undergone comprehensive evaluation for various rangeland conditions, particularly after disturbances. The goal of this research was to evaluate these equations using independent data obtained from rainfall simulations conducted at multiple rangeland sites. Additionally, we developed and evaluated a new set of Ke predictive equations applying readily measurable cover and soils data spanning a wide range of vegetation, soil textures, and disturbance conditions. The results show that all previous Ke equations in RHEM have a “satisfactory” performance with index of agreement (d) > 0.75 and R2 > 0.4. The new Ke approach resulted in “very good” performance with d > 0.9 and R2 > 0.5. The new set of equations enhances RHEM for applications over broader rangeland conditions, including sparse vegetation cover following disturbances or community transitions. Keywords: Disturbed Rangelands, Hillslope Runoff, Infiltration.
Nutrient Properties of Fresh and Composted Cotton Gin Byproducts and Cattle Manure for Soil Amendment
Authors: Alege Femi Peter , Blake Cody Daniel , Donohoe Sean P. , Thomas Joseph W.
Published: February 2024

Highlights

N and P concentrations in composted vs. fresh Cotton Gin Byproducts (CGB) were at least 55% (dry basis) higher.

P concentrations in composted vs. raw Beef Manure (BM) were approximately 25% higher.

Characterization informs product formulations and process parameters for co-pelleting CGB with BM.

Accurate formulation would enhance the potential for sustainable utilization of both byproducts.

Abstract. Applications of fresh and composted Cotton Gin Byproducts (CGB) and cattle manure as soil amendments are very common practices in the industry. However, composting and direct application of the materials are often limited by factors such as bulkiness, varying nutrient composition and application rates, and handling/transportation costs. This study was conducted to characterize fresh and composted CGB and beef manure (BM) for subsequent co-pelletization and utilization as soil amendments, and to investigate the effects of composting on the nutrient composition and agronomic values. Raw and composted samples of CGB and BM at different storage periods and composting ages were sourced from two commercial gins and a beef farm. Nutrient content, acidity, and compost maturity indices such as carbon/nitrogen (C/N) and ammonium/nitrate (NH4-N/NO3-N) ratios were determined and compared. All samples were obtained at four sampling points on the respective storage or composting piles. The results showed that composted CGB generally contained at least 55% more total-N and phosphorus oxide (P2O5), but approximately 35% less potassium oxide (K2O) than fresh CGB. Composted BM had approximately 3% less total-N, but at least 25% more P2O5 than raw BM. The nutrient compositions affirm the potential for co-pelletizing both forms of CGB and BM to improve the agronomic values and enhance the utilization as soil amendments. In addition, establishing the various properties of CGB and BM is crucial for determining product formulations and selecting process parameters for co-pelletization. Keywords: Beef manure, Composting, Cotton ginning, Nutrient composition, Soil fertility.
Feeling rules in artificial intelligence: norms for anger management
Authors: Monrad Merete
Published: February 2024

The rapid spread of conversational AI, as well as the potential for personal conversations with chatbots, makes it relevant to examine what norms and values underlie chatbot responses. This article examines the feeling rules for anger implicitly communicated by a recent chatbot (ChatGPT). Querying the chatbot about appropriate and inappropriate anger, the study shows how specific feeling rules are articulated by AI. The chatbot communicates norms of productive, respectful, constructive, controlled and calm expression of anger through talk and, as such, relies on communication as a pervasive cultural repertoire. Based on a rereading of Boltanski and Thévenot’s (2006) economies of worth focusing on feeling rules, it is argued that different moral repertoires have implications for feeling rules. Using this theoretical framework to analyse the responses of the chatbot, it is evident that it primarily relies on both the industrial and the domestic orders of worth to assess anger. The chatbot articulates the problem of anger as unproductiveness and disrespect. The feeling rules implied in the responses of the chatbot reflect a neoliberal conception of self as individually responsible, productive, self-regulating, emotionally competent and able to find solutions. The seemingly neutral advice of the chatbot potentially depoliticises anger, disciplines people to remain productive and respectful and narrows the scope of anger expressions that are deemed acceptable.
Evaluating the Impact of an Educational Program on Stigmatizing Attitudes in Dental Hygiene Students
Authors: Zechner Michelle , Karyczak Sean , Murphy Ann , Vasilenko Gail , Drucks Cindy , McMahon Kim , Singhal Rishi
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: People living with serious mental illness (SMI) are at high risk for poor dentition, poor oral health, and increased tooth loss. This mixed methods research study assessed the impact of an interdisciplinary education program on dental hygiene student attitudes toward people with SMI. Senior dental hygiene students ( n = 38) from a large northeastern university participated in 3 hours of didactic learning, followed by experiential service learning. Quantitative surveys and qualitative questions were administered at three time points. Results showed a decrease in stigmatizing attitudes from before to after the didactic learning, which was maintained following experiential learning for two of the three scales. Thematic analysis indicated students' willingness to work with the population after service learning. Interdisciplinary education programs combining didactic and experiential service learning offer promise to improve attitudes of dental hygiene students. Future work is needed to explore the most critical and impactful components of this type of educational program.