bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Terahertz wavefront shaping with multi-channel polarization conversion based on all-dielectric metasurface
Authors: Li Jie , Zheng Chenglong , Li Jitao , Wang Guocui , Liu Jingyu , Yue Zhen , Hao Xuanruo , Yang Yue , Li Fuyu , Tang Tingting , Zhang Yating , Zhang Yan , Yao Jianquan
Published: July 2021

Polarization manipulation of electromagnetic wave or polarization multiplexed beam shaping based on metasurfaces has been reported in various frequency bands. However, it is difficult to shape the beam with multi-channel polarization conversion in a single metasurface. Here, we propose a new method for terahertz wavefront shaping with multi-channel polarization conversion via all-silicon metasurface, which is based on the linear shape birefringence effect in spatially interleaved anisotropic meta-atoms. By superimposing the eigen- and non-eigen-polarization responses of the two kinds of meta-atoms, we demonstrate the possibility for high-efficiency evolution of several typical polarization states with two independent channels for linearly polarized waves. The measured polarization conversion efficiency is higher than 70% in the range of 0.9–1.3 THz, with a peak value of 89.2% at 1.1 THz. In addition, when more other polarization states are incident, combined with the integration of sub-arrays, we can get more channels for both polarization conversion and beam shaping. Simulated and experimental results verify the feasibility of this method. The proposed method provides a new idea for the design of terahertz multi-functional metadevices.
A mechanistic and data-driven reconstruction of the time-varying reproduction number: Application to the COVID-19 epidemic
Authors: Cazelles Bernard , Champagne Clara , Nguyen-Van-Yen Benjamin , Comiskey Catherine , Vergu Elisabeta , Roche Benjamin
Published: July 2021

The effective reproduction numberReffis a critical epidemiological parameter that characterizes the transmissibility of a pathogen. However, this parameter is difficult to estimate in the presence of silent transmission and/or significant temporal variation in case reporting. This variation can occur due to the lack of timely or appropriate testing, public health interventions and/or changes in human behavior during an epidemic. This is exactly the situation we are confronted with during this COVID-19 pandemic. In this work, we propose to estimateRefffor the SARS-CoV-2 (the etiological agent of the COVID-19), based on a model of its propagation considering a time-varying transmission rate. This rate is modeled by a Brownian diffusion process embedded in a stochastic model. The model is then fitted by Bayesian inference (particle Markov Chain Monte Carlo method) using multiple well-documented hospital datasets from several regions in France and in Ireland. This mechanistic modeling framework enables us to reconstruct the temporal evolution of the transmission rate of the COVID-19 based only on the available data. Except for the specific model structure, it is non-specifically assumed that the transmission rate follows a basic stochastic process constrained by the observations. This approach allows us to follow both the course of the COVID-19 epidemic and the temporal evolution of itsReff(t). Besides, it allows to assess and to interpret the evolution of transmission with respect to the mitigation strategies implemented to control the epidemic waves in France and in Ireland. We can thus estimate a reduction of more than 80% for the first wave in all the studied regions but a smaller reduction for the second wave when the epidemic was less active, around 45% in France but just 20% in Ireland. For the third wave in Ireland the reduction was again significant (>70%).
Autoencoder based local T cell repertoire density can be used to classify samples and T cell receptors
Authors: Dvorkin Shirit , Levi Reut , Louzoun Yoram
Published: July 2021

Recent advances in T cell repertoire (TCR) sequencing allow for the characterization of repertoire properties, as well as the frequency and sharing of specific TCR. However, there is no efficient measure for the local density of a given TCR. TCRs are often described either through their Complementary Determining region 3 (CDR3) sequences, or theirV/J usage, or their clone size. We here show that the local repertoire density can be estimated using a combined representation of these components through distance conserving autoencoders and Kernel Density Estimates (KDE). We present ELATE–an Encoder-based LocAl Tcr dEnsity and show that the resulting density of a sample can be used as a novel measure to study repertoire properties. The cross-density between two samples can be used as a similarity matrix to fully characterize samples from the same host. Finally, the same projection in combination with machine learning algorithms can be used to predict TCR-peptide binding through the local density of known TCRs binding a specific target.
Field evaluation of the gut microbiome composition of pre-school and school-aged children in Tha Song Yang, Thailand, following oral MDA for STH infections
Authors: Stracke Katharina , Adisakwattana Poom , Phuanukoonnon Suparat , Yoonuan Tippayarat , Poodeepiyasawat Akkarin , Dekumyoy Paron , Chaisiri Kittipong , Roth Schulze Alexandra , Wilcox Stephen , Karunajeewa Harin , Traub Rebecca J. , Jex Aaron R.
Published: July 2021

Soil-transmitted helminths, such as roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides), whipworms (Trichuris trichiura) and hookworms (Necator americanus and Ancylostoma spp.), are gastrointestinal parasites that occur predominantly in low- to middle-income countries worldwide and disproportionally impact children. Depending on the STH species, health status of the host and infection intensity, direct impacts of these parasites include malnutrition, anaemia, diarrhoea and physical and cognitive stunting. The indirect consequences of these infections are less well understood. Specifically, gastrointestinal infections may exert acute or chronic impacts on the natural gut microfauna, leading to increased risk of post-infectious gastrointestinal disorders, and reduced gut and overall health through immunomodulating mechanisms. To date a small number of preliminary studies have assessed the impact of helminths on the gut microbiome, but these studies are conflicting. Here, we assessed STH burden in 273 pre-school and school-aged children in Tha Song Yang district, Tak province, Thailand receiving annual oral mebendazole treatment. Ascaris lumbricoides (107/273) and Trichuris trichiura (100/273) were the most prevalent species and often occurred as co-infections (66/273). Ancylostoma ceylanicum was detected in a small number of children as well (n = 3). All of these infections were of low intensity (<4,999 or 999 eggs per gram for Ascaris and Trichuris respectively). Using this information, we characterised the baseline gut microbiome profile and investigated acute STH-induced alterations, comparing infected with uninfected children at the time of sampling. We found no difference between these groups in bacterial alpha-diversity, but did observe differences in beta-diversity and specific differentially abundant OTUs, including increased Akkermansia muciniphila and Bacteroides coprophilus, and reduced Bifidobacterium adolescentis, each of which have been previously implicated in STH-associated changes in the gut microfauna.
A new flowchart for parameters calculation of Hybrid Active Power Filter with Injection Circuit
Authors: Truong Tung Khac , Thuyen Chau Minh
Published: July 2021

This paper presents a new flowchart for parameters calculation of Hybrid Active Power Filter with Injection Circuit (IHAPF). The first is the necessity to use the IHAPF model and the parameters of the IHAPF needed to search have been shown. Next, the constraints of the parameters to be searched and the objective function to be reached are given. Since then a flowchart is designed to look for parameters of IHAPF using the Jaya optimization algorithm. The Jaya algorithm has the advantage of simplicity, few parameters, and good performance. Therefore it reduces search time. Compared to the flowchart using the firefly algorithm, particle swarm optimization algorithm, and simulated annealing algorithm, the simulation results performed on an IHAPF 10kV-50Hz model have proven that: the proposed flowchart gives better results in minimizing the compensation errors, minimum phase shift angle between supply current, and source voltage, minimum total harmonic distortion of supply current.
Predicting the efficacy of COVID-19 convalescent plasma donor units with the Lumit Dx anti-receptor binding domain assay
Authors: Janaka Sanath Kumar , Clark Natasha M. , Evans David T. , Mou Huihui , Farzan Michael , Connor Joseph P.
Published: July 2021

Background

The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV2 that causes COVID-19 has resulted in the death of more than 2.5 million people, but no cure exists. Although passive immunization with COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP) provides a safe and viable therapeutic option, the selection of optimal units for therapy in a timely fashion remains a barrier.

Study design and methods

Since virus neutralization is a necessary characteristic of plasma that can benefit recipients, the neutralizing titers of plasma samples were measured using a retroviral-pseudotype assay. Binding antibody titers to the spike (S) protein were also determined by a clinically available serological assay (Ortho-Vitros total IG), and an in-house ELISA. The results of these assays were compared to a measurement of antibodies directed to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV2 S protein (Promega Lumit Dx).

Results

All measures of antibodies were highly variable, but correlated, to different degrees, with each other. However, the anti-RBD antibodies correlated with viral neutralizing titers to a greater extent than the other antibody assays.

Discussion

Our observations support the use of an anti-RBD assay such as the Lumit Dx assay, as an optimal predictor of the neutralization capability of CCP.
Field evaluation of a prototype tuberculosis lipoarabinomannan lateral flow assay on HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients
Authors: Connelly John T. , Andama Alfred , Grant Benjamin D. , Ball Alexey , Mwebe Sandra , Asege Lucy , Nakaye Martha , Lopez Brianda Barrios , Hsieh Helen V. , Katumba David , Mukwatamundu Job , Nalubega Mayimuna , Hunt Victoria M. , Burkot Stephen , Ramachandraiah Harisha , Choudhary Alok , Ignatowicz Lech , Weigl Bernhard H. , Bachman Christine , Mulondo Jerry , Semitala Fred , Worodria William , Pinter Abraham , Hamasur Beston , Bell David , Cattamanchi Adithya , Somoskovi Akos
Published: July 2021

Detection of tuberculosis at the point-of-care (POC) is limited by the low sensitivity of current commercially available tests. We describe a diagnostic accuracy field evaluation of a prototype urine Tuberculosis Lipoarabinomannan Lateral Flow Assay (TB-LAM LFA) in both HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients using fresh samples with sensitivity and specificity as the measures of accuracy. This prototype combines a proprietary concentration system with a sensitive LFA. In a prospective study of 292 patients with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis in Uganda, the clinical sensitivity and specificity was compared against a microbiological reference standard including sputum Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra and solid and liquid culture. TB-LAM LFA had an overall sensitivity of 60% (95%CI 51–69%) and specificity of 80% (95%CI 73–85%). When comparing HIV-positive (N = 86) and HIV-negative (N = 206) patients, there was no significant difference in sensitivity (sensitivity difference 8%, 95%CI -11% to +24%, p = 0.4351) or specificity (specificity difference -9%, 95%CI -24% to +4%, p = 0.2051). Compared to the commercially available Alere Determine TB-LAM Ag test, the TB-LAM LFA prototype had improved sensitivity in both HIV-negative (difference 49%, 95%CI 37% to 59%, p<0.0001) and HIV-positive patients with CD4+ T-cell counts >200cells/μL (difference 59%, 95%CI 32% to 75%, p = 0.0009). This report is the first to show improved performance of a urine TB LAM test for HIV-negative patients in a high TB burden setting. We also offer potential assay refinement solutions that may further improve sensitivity and specificity.
Effectiveness of a nurse-led hospital-to-home transitional care intervention for older adults with multimorbidity and depressive symptoms: A pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Markle-Reid Maureen , McAiney Carrie , Fisher Kathryn , Ganann Rebecca , Gauthier Alain P. , Heald-Taylor Gail , McElhaney Janet E. , McMillan Fran , Petrie Penelope , Ploeg Jenny , Urajnik Diana J. , Whitmore Carly
Published: July 2021

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of a nurse-led hospital-to-home transitional care intervention versus usual care on mental functioning (primary outcome), physical functioning, depressive symptoms, anxiety, perceived social support, patient experience, and health service use costs in older adults with multimorbidity (≥ 2 comorbidities) and depressive symptoms.

Design and setting

Pragmatic multi-site randomized controlled trial conducted in three communities in Ontario, Canada. Participants were allocated into two groups of intervention and usual care (control).

Participants

127 older adults (≥ 65 years) discharged from hospital to the community with multimorbidity and depressive symptoms.

Intervention

This evidence-based, patient-centred intervention consisted of individually tailored care delivery by a Registered Nurse comprising in-home visits, telephone follow-up and system navigation support over 6-months.

Outcome measures

The primary outcome was the change in mental functioning, from baseline to 6-months. Secondary outcomes were the change in physical functioning, depressive symptoms, anxiety, perceived social support, patient experience, and health service use cost, from baseline to 6-months. Intention-to-treat analysis was performed using ANCOVA modeling.

Results

Of 127 enrolled participants (63-intervention, 64-control), 85% had six or more chronic conditions. 28 participants were lost to follow-up, leaving 99 (47 -intervention, 52-control) participants for the complete case analysis. No significant group differences were seen for the baseline to six-month change in mental functioning or other secondary outcomes. Older adults in the intervention group reported receiving more information about health and social services (p = 0.03) compared with the usual care group.

Conclusions

Although no significant group differences were seen for the primary or secondary outcomes, the intervention resulted in improvements in one aspect of patient experience (information about health and social services). The study sample fell below the target sample (enrolled 127, targeted 216), which can account for the non-significant findings. Further research on the impact of the intervention and factors that contribute to the results is recommended.

Trial registration

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier:NCT03157999.
Positioning zoonotic disease research in forced migration: A systematic literature review of theoretical frameworks and approaches
Authors: Tasker Alex , Braam Dorien
Published: July 2021

Background

The emergence and transmission of zoonotic diseases are driven by complex interactions between health, environmental, and socio-political systems. Human movement is considered a significant and increasing factor in these processes, yet forced migration remains an understudied area of zoonotic research–due in part to the complexity of conducting interdisciplinary research in these settings.

Objectives

We conducted a systematic review to identify and analyze theoretical frameworks and approaches used to study linkages between forced migration and zoonotic diseases.

Methods

We searched within eight electronic databases: ProQuest, SCOPUS, Web of Science, PubMed, PLoSOne, Science Direct, JSTOR, and Google Scholar, to identify a) research articles focusing on zoonoses considering forced migrants in their study populations, and b) forced migration literature which engaged with zoonotic disease. Both authors conducted a full-text review, evaluating the quality of literature reviews and primary data using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) model, while theoretical papers were evaluated for quality using a theory synthesis adapted from Bonell et al. (2013). Qualitative data were synthesized thematically according to the method suggested by Noblit and Hare (1988).

Results

Analyses of the 23 included articles showed the increasing use of interdisciplinary frameworks and approaches over time, the majority of which stemmed from political ecology. Approaches such as EcoHealth and One Health were increasingly popular, but were more often linked to program implementation and development than broader contextual research. The majority of research failed to acknowledge the heterogeneity of migrant populations, lacked contextual depth, and insufficient acknowledgments of migrant agency in responding to zoonotic threats.

Conclusions

Addressing the emergence and spread of zoonoses in forced migration contexts requires more careful consideration and use of interdisciplinary research to integrate the contributions of social and natural science approaches. Robust interdisciplinary theoretical frameworks are an important step for better understanding the complex health, environment, and socio-political drivers of zoonotic diseases in forced migration. Lessons can be learned from the application of these approaches in other hard-to-reach or seldom-heard populations.
Pricing through health apps generated data—Digital dividend as a game changer: Discrete choice experiment
Authors: Heidel Alexandra , Hagist Christian , Schlereth Christian
Published: July 2021

Objectives

The objective of this paper is to study under which circumstances wearable and health app users would accept a compensation payment, namely a digital dividend, to share their self-tracked health data.

Methods

We conducted a discrete choice experiment alternative, a separated adaptive dual response. We chose this approach to reduce extreme response behavior, considering the emotionally-charged topic of health data sales, and to measure willingness to accept. Previous experiments in lab settings led to demands for high monetary compensation. After a first online survey and two pre-studies, we validated four attributes for the final online study: monthly bonus payment, stakeholder handling the data (e.g., health insurer, pharmaceutical or medical device companies, universities), type of data, and data sales to third parties. We used a random utility framework to evaluate individual choice preferences. To test the expected prices of the main study for robustness, we assigned respondents randomly to one of two identical questionnaires with varying price ranges.

Results

Over a period of three weeks, 842 respondents participated in the main survey, and 272 respondents participated in the second survey. The participants considered transparency about data processing and no further data sales to third parties as very important to the decision to share data with different stakeholders, as well as adequate monetary compensation. Price expectations resulting from the experiment were high; pharmaceutical and medical device companies would have to pay an average digital dividend of 237.30€/month for patient generated health data of all types. We also observed an anchor effect, which means that people formed price expectations during the process and not ex ante. We found a bimodal distribution between relatively low price expectations and relatively high price expectations, which shows that personal data selling is a divisive societal issue. However, the results indicate that a digital dividend could be an accepted economic incentive system to gather large-scale, self-tracked data for research and development purposes. After the COVID-19 crisis, price expectations might change due to public sensitization to the need for big data research on patient generated health data.

Conclusion

A continuing success of existing data donation models is highly unlikely. The health care sector needs to develop transparency and trust in data processing. An adequate digital dividend could be an effective long-term measure to convince a diverse and large group of people to share high-quality, continuous data for research purposes.
The role of foreign capital and economic freedom in sustainable food production: Evidence from DLD countries
Authors: Ding Guoping , Vitenu-Sackey Prince Asare , Chen Wenshu , Shi Xiaofeng , Yan Jun , Yuan Shichen
Published: July 2021

In many developing countries, the deficiency in public and private investment has resulted in lower growth rates and stagnation in productivity. The need for a new paradigm of foreign investment and aid in agricultural production is becoming exigent in developing countries. Given the decline in per capita arable land, the rise in production costs, and the increase in population and urbanization, major changes in agriculture have been proposed to boost agricultural production. This present study endeavours to contribute to the existing literature by proving whether foreign capital and economic freedom could catapult food production into the much-anticipated growth. In that regard, we performed GLS with correlated disturbances, system GMM dynamic panel data estimators and D-H causality test. The study found that foreign capital as a whole plays a positive role in food production in developing and least developed countries, but FDI is insignificant in least-developed countries. Moreover, economic freedom plays a positive role in food production in least-developed countries but negative in developing countries. Policymakers and governments should create an enabling environment for sustainable food production.
pMGF505-7R determines pathogenicity of African swine fever virus infection by inhibiting IL-1β and type I IFN production
Authors: Li Jiangnan , Song Jie , Kang Li , Huang Li , Zhou Shijun , Hu Liang , Zheng Jun , Li Changyao , Zhang Xianfeng , He Xijun , Zhao Dongming , Bu Zhigao , Weng Changjiang
Published: July 2021

Inflammatory factors and type I interferons (IFNs) are key components of host antiviral innate immune responses, which can be released from the pathogen-infected macrophages. African swine fever virus (ASFV) has developed various strategies to evade host antiviral innate immune responses, including alteration of inflammatory responses and IFNs production. However, the molecular mechanism underlying inhibition of inflammatory responses and IFNs production by ASFV-encoded proteins has not been fully understood. Here we report that ASFV infection only induced low levels of IL-1β and type I IFNs in porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs), even in the presence of strong inducers such as LPS and poly(dA:dT). Through further exploration, we found that several members of the multigene family 360 (MGF360) and MGF505 strongly inhibited IL-1β maturation and IFN-β promoter activation. Among them, pMGF505-7R had the strongest inhibitory effect. To verify the function of pMGF505-7R in vivo, a recombinant ASFV with deletion of the MGF505-7R gene (ASFV-Δ7R) was constructed and assessed. As we expected, ASFV-Δ7R infection induced higher levels of IL-1β and IFN-β compared with its parental ASFV HLJ/18 strain. ASFV infection-induced IL-1β production was then found to be dependent on TLRs/NF-κB signaling pathway and NLRP3 inflammasome. Furthermore, we demonstrated that pMGF505-7R interacted with IKKα in the IKK complex to inhibit NF-κB activation and bound to NLRP3 to inhibit inflammasome formation, leading to decreased IL-1β production. Moreover, we found that pMGF505-7R interacted with and inhibited the nuclear translocation of IRF3 to block type I IFN production. Importantly, the virulence of ASFV-Δ7R is reduced in piglets compared with its parental ASFV HLJ/18 strain, which may due to induction of higher IL-1β and type I IFN production in vivo. Our findings provide a new clue to understand the functions of ASFV-encoded pMGF505-7R and its role in viral infection-induced pathogenesis, which might help design antiviral agents or live attenuated vaccines to control ASF.
Divergent metabolism between Trypanosoma congolense and Trypanosoma brucei results in differential sensitivity to metabolic inhibition
Authors: Steketee Pieter C. , Dickie Emily A. , Iremonger James , Crouch Kathryn , Paxton Edith , Jayaraman Siddharth , Alfituri Omar A. , Awuah-Mensah Georgina , Ritchie Ryan , Schnaufer Achim , Rowan Tim , de Koning Harry P. , Gadelha Catarina , Wickstead Bill , Barrett Michael P. , Morrison Liam J.
Published: July 2021

Animal African Trypanosomiasis (AAT) is a debilitating livestock disease prevalent across sub-Saharan Africa, a main cause of which is the protozoan parasiteTrypanosoma congolense. In comparison to the well-studiedT.brucei, there is a major paucity of knowledge regarding the biology ofT.congolense. Here, we use a combination of omics technologies and novel genetic tools to characterise core metabolism inT.congolensemammalian-infective bloodstream-form parasites, and test whether metabolic differences compared toT.bruceiimpact upon sensitivity to metabolic inhibition. Like the bloodstream stage ofT.brucei, glycolysis plays a major part inT.congolenseenergy metabolism. However, the rate of glucose uptake is significantly lower in bloodstream stageT.congolense, with cells remaining viable when cultured in concentrations as low as 2 mM. Instead of pyruvate, the primary glycolytic endpoints are succinate, malate and acetate. Transcriptomics analysis showed higher levels of transcripts associated with the mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, acetate generation, and the glycosomal succinate shunt inT.congolense, compared toT.brucei. Stable-isotope labelling of glucose enabled the comparison of carbon usage betweenT.bruceiandT.congolense, highlighting differences in nucleotide and saturated fatty acid metabolism. To validate the metabolic similarities and differences, both species were treated with metabolic inhibitors, confirming that electron transport chain activity is not essential inT.congolense. However, the parasite exhibits increased sensitivity to inhibition of mitochondrial pyruvate import, compared toT.brucei. Strikingly,T.congolenseexhibited significant resistance to inhibitors of fatty acid synthesis, including a 780-fold higher EC50for the lipase and fatty acid synthase inhibitor Orlistat, compared toT.brucei. These data highlight that bloodstream formT.congolensediverges fromT.bruceiin key areas of metabolism, with several features that are intermediate between bloodstream- and insect-stageT.brucei. These results have implications for drug development, mechanisms of drug resistance and host-pathogen interactions.
Literary celebrities as counterpublics: A comparative study of Gao Xingjian and Toni Morrison
Authors: Cheuk Michael Ka-chi
Published: July 2021

Despite its universal importance, the Nobel Prize in literature, which is based in Sweden and administered by the Swedish Academy, is a central European literary prize. And the prestige which the Nobel Prize bestows upon its winners is fuelled by a central-European type of fetishization of intellectual achievement, in which Nobel laureates are more known than they are read. Rather than being publicly recognized for their literary achievements, Nobel Prize-winning authors become literary celebrities who represent various kinds of Nobel-related capitals, including political capital, cultural capital and economic capital. In this article, I investigate on two non-European, Nobel Prize-winning authors, Gao Xingjian (the first Chinese-language Nobel author, 2000) and Toni Morrison (the first African American female Nobel author, 1993), and how they represent different conceptions of literary celebrities, and by extension different types of counterpublics. In order to study the relationship between Nobel literary laureates, storytelling and the representation of marginalized groups in the public domain, I examine and compare how Gao Xingjian’s and Toni Morrison’s Nobel lectures give voice to the Sinophone community and the African American community respectively. For Gao’s case, I study his Nobel lecture against the backdrop of the Chinese ‘Nobel complex’. In Morrison’s case, I examine her Nobel lecture as being re-presented in her appearances on Oprah’s Book Club, a reading initiative launched by the popular American television talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show.
The similarity of characteristics between cybernetics and interactivity: How to identify interactive systems/artworks using cybernetic thinking
Authors: Li Jun
Published: July 2021

Cybernetic theory and interactivity have much in common, including human interrelationships between modern technology and how they define and reveal the whole interactive process. Most of the key notions in both can be described as the system in conversation about the system, talking to each other through the information passed back and forth between the particular relationship in audiences and artworks. These similar languages are feedback, control, conversation and system thinking in the field of cybernetic theory and interactive artworks. As can be seen, some concepts of the cybernetic are applicable to interactivity. So, how can cybernetic thinking be applied to interactive artworks? The purpose of this article is to explore the interplay of cybernetics theory and interactivity and the connection between cybernetic/system thinking and technological/interactive artworks by illustrating the similarity of characteristics and comparing the conversation of two network systems. The goal is to deconstruct and reshape their relationships by thinking of interactive artworks in the way of cybernetic thinking.
Research on the psychological impact and implications of online education
Authors: Wu Rui
Published: July 2021

In response to the sudden outbreak of COVID-19 in early 2020, the entire Chinese education system was switched to an online teaching model within a short time. As a front-line teaching manager, I am aware that this entails major changes to the teaching environment and information media, with a subtle psychological impact on both ‘teaching’ and ‘learning’ subjects. Specifically, information technology has an impact on educational fairness and learners’ psychological needs. In this article, I observe the influence of online teaching on learners’ cognition and feelings from the perspective of the ‘needs hierarchy’. The research findings will be helpful to understanding the impact of information-based teaching methods, and to push forward with new forms of telematic online learning.
The short life of a concept: tourismphobia in the Spanish media. Narratives, actors and agendas
Authors: Velasco González María , Carrillo Barroso Ernesto
Published: July 2021

This article forms part of a classic social science debate on the role of the media in the construction of social and political narratives. The object of the paper is to study the rise and fall of the concept of tourismphobia in the Spanish media. The case is analyzed in the light of public policies studies, especially those analyzing agenda-setting, the social construction of the definition of public problems and the struggles of coalitions seeking to impose their public policy narratives in the policy-making process. With this purpose, a database was used that collected more than 11,000 news items over a substantial period of time. Its analysis reveals that media attention rises sharply after active protest actions against tourist saturation and that the term is mostly linked to specific territories and cities and to certain political figures. It also allows us to observe how some political responses to the problem appear more in the media, while others are minimized. The conclusions indicate that the “tourismphobia” neologism was capitalized on – which is often the case with terms that circulate in the public sphere – by various groups attempting to highlight some of its semantic dimensions over others. The study also reveals that the media assume an active position in the construction of discourses in relation to tourism also as a political and not just an economic issue. Furthermore, it shows that the use of the term has greatly declined, either because the problem has become dormant or because it has been reformulated into other terms that are more in line with dominant narratives.
Jugando a ser dioses: puntos críticos de las tecnologías en educación
Authors: Prats Enric
Published: July 2021

La convivencia de la educación con los medios tecnológicos arrastra una complicada relación que afecta, sin duda, de manera asimétrica más a la primera que a los segundos. La presencia de estos en los escenarios educativos tiene una desigual intensidad atendiendo a factores tan variados como la voluntad de sus protagonistas, tanto docentes como discentes; a la presión social, especialmente de los mismos discentes y sus familias, y por supuesto a las iniciativas gubernamentales, en algunos momentos más invasivas de lo debido. Este panorama no cambia con la universalización de los medios sociales digitales, sino que más bien agudiza algunas brechas que ya eran evidentes con medios más rudimentarios. El artículo aporta tres niveles de análisis, a modo de puntos críticos, para pensar las tecnologías en la educación, desde la constatación de que hemos decidido jugar a ser dioses, en el sentido que nos hemos creído con la capacidad de crear desde cero y reinventarnos cada día.
La percepción del alumnado sobre las competencias docentes del profesorado de la rama de ciencias sociales y jurídicas de la Universitat de Valencia
Authors: Pérez Pérez Cruz , López Francés Inmaculada , Sospedra Baeza Mª Josefa
Published: July 2021

En el presente trabajo se presentan los datos de una investigación realizada en la Universidad de Valencia en la que se analiza la percepción del alumnado sobre las competencias docentes del profesorado del área de Ciencias Sociales y Jurídicas. En el estudio participaron un total de 389 estudiantes universitarios de 10 titulaciones diferentes de la Universitat de València. En general, las 32 competencias son valoradas por los sujetos de la muestra como muy importantes en el proceso de enseñanza/aprendizaje. El alumnado valora las competencias personales como las más importantes, seguidas de las científicas, las metodológicas y las sociales. Globalmente las dos competencias más valoradas hacen referencia al trato correcto y respetuoso con el alumnado, así como a la creación de un clima de aula basado en el diálogo y la comunicación. Este dato es una constante que se repite en todas las titulaciones analizadas, con pequeñas variaciones. Las competencias menos valoradas son “Mantener una imagen personal cuidada” y “Estar al día de las nuevas tecnologías de la información y la comunicación”.
Colaboración online, formación del profesorado y TIC en el aula: Estudio de caso
Authors: De Jesus Pinto Risoleta , Lebres Aires Maria Luísa
Published: July 2021

Las TIC han transformado la vida cotidiana de los individuos, sus mentes, objetivos de vida y también la organización de la sociedad. En este contexto de cambio, se supone la existencia de un tipo de escuela con trayectorias basadas en las especificidades de la actual sociedad red. Las investigaciones desarrolladas en el ámbito de la Red de Observatorios Municipales para a Alfabetización e Inclusión Digital están demostrando que, si bien los maestros de primaria reconocen la importancia de las tecnologías digitales e Internet, estos maestros apenas usan estas tecnologías justificando su postura en la ausencia de competencias pedagógicas. Por otra parte, las lógicas de mono docencia existentes en Primaria han desarrollado culturas de aislamiento profesional que no han beneficiado las dinámicas de trabajo en red, elementos fundamentales para la promoción de la alfabetización digital.A partir de esta realidad y de la revisión teórica que hemos realizado sobre esta problemática, hemos diseñado, ofrecido y analizado un cursillo online centrado en lógicas colaborativas, para la formación de profesores de primaria, en el distrito de Santarém, Portugal.
Teaching History and Civic Education in Slovenia
Authors: Trškan Danijela , Bezjak Špela
Published: July 2021

The article explains how civic education is included in the subject of history in elementary and secondary schools in Slovenia. History is a compulsory subject taught in elementary and secondary schools and plays an important role in the cultural, social and political education of young people – young citizens. The analysis of current history curricula indicates that they contain civic and patriotic elements in the general and specific objectives and learning outcomes, as well as in the content. The analysis of selected history textbooks shows that Slovenian textbooks include more European history than Slovenian history. The article explains what social and civic competences can be developed and fostered in the subject of history and how elementary and secondary school students can use various examples from the past to develop a positive attitude towards Slovenian identity and the protection of Slovenian cultural heritage, a respectful attitude towards human rights and democratic citizenship, towards different cultures, religions and nations, and responsible socio-political activity. It has been noted that history teachers have many opportunities to teach students the relevant values of democratic citizenship and to enable them to know and understand themselves as individuals and as members of the local and global communities. However, more attention should be paid to contemporary Slovenian history and active citizenship.
Ensino da História em Portugal: o currículo, programas, manuais escolares e formação docente
Authors: Solé Glória
Published: July 2021

Este artigo visa analisar de forma crítica e fundamentada com base em revisão de literatura, estudos empíricos, legislação em vigor e nos documentos normativos, como está estruturado o ensino da História em Portugal e as mudanças operadas nas últimas décadas. Procede-se a uma breve descrição e contextualização do sistema educativo português, como é que este está estruturado, quais os níveis de escolaridade em que se ensina História, qual a carga horária atribuída a esta área disciplinar, comparativamente a outras áreas do Currículo, bem como os documentos normativos atuais que regem o ensino da História em Portugal. A partir dos documentos orientadores analisam-se os conteúdos de História por níveis de escolaridade, que peso têm os conteúdos conceptuais em relação aos procedimentais e atitudinais, como é integrado o património e a cidadania nos programas de história, o enfoque dado à história nacional em relação à história europeia e mundial e qual o papel dos manuais escolares e como se processa atualmente a formação de professores de História para os vários ciclos de ensino. Concluímos que os programas de História ainda mantêm uma estrutura linear e cronológica, com grande enfoque na História de Portugal, ou seja, prevalecendo uma História Nacional, embora integrada na História Europeia e Mundial a partir do 3.º CEB. Mudanças profundas têm surgido no ensino da História em Portugal, operadas pelos documentos curriculares em vigor, pela renovação dos manuais escolares em linha com as novas orientações curriculares e uma aposta na formação docente que privilegie a formação contínua e o ensino por competências, em sintonia com a agenda para a Educação do Século XXI (UNESCO).
Opening or closing Pandora’s box? – Third-order concepts in history education for powerful knowledge
Authors: Alvén Fredrik
Published: July 2021

In this article, I introduce third-order concepts in the history teaching as a way to reach powerful knowledge. If we understand powerful knowledge as a means to give students a competence to understand the contemporary world, to help them to engage in society´s conversations and debates about itself, and to understand the grounds for accepting or rejecting knowledge claims, we must then help them to understand what ontology the discipline of history rests upon. Consequently, third-order concepts can help students as these concepts shed a light on what perception of reality the historical narratives and the first-order concepts build upon in the history classroom. However, at the end of the day, I have my doubts – what if we provide arguments for groups that have an anti-liberal and anti-democratic agenda?
El estado del personal inquisitorial de Mallorca a finales del siglo XVIII
Authors: Picazo Muntaner Antoni
Published: July 2021

El análisis de las fuentes documentales existentes en el Archivo Histórico Nacional, de la serie Inquisición, permite profundizar cómo estaba diseñada la estructura interna del tribunal del Santo Oficio del reino de Mallorca a finales del siglo xviii. Su actividad ya apuntaba a que estaba en decadencia absoluta. Las únicas actuaciones se centraban en la persecución de libros prohibidos o en la depuración de responsabilidades entre los religiosos acusados de solicitaciones. Entre los objetivos previstos destacaríamos valorar los gastos de personal y determinar quiénes formaban parte de este y con quiénes estaban vinculados. La principal conclusión que emana de este estudio es que en determinados casos existió una verdadera cooptación en la transmisión de los oficios, validada y permitida por el propio Consejo de la Suprema. Otra de las conclusiones que hemos alcanzado es la de valorar las conexiones que se dieron en la institución inquisitorial, especialmente entre los altos cargos. Configuraban una verdadera red de poder que se extendía gradualmente por todos los territorios de la Corona. Finalmente, clarificamos las diferencias existentes, en materia de personal entre la isla mayor, Mallorca, y las dos más pequeñas. Ibiza y, especialmente, Menorca. En esta última, tras la primera ocupación británica, el Santo Oficio había quedado desmantelado del todo.
«Ad cura personalis et civitatis utilitatem». Examining Jesuit Postconciliar Renewal and Educational Innovation in Spain
Authors: Lemke Duque Carl Antonius , Igelmo Zaldívar Jon
Published: July 2021

This paper analyzes Jesuit pedagogy in Spain after the Second Vatican Council, encompassing recent trends and shifts by first delving into the main elements involved in the postconciliar crisis and renewal of the Society of Jesus in Spain, including the various critiques that this change received (part II). Second, this paper sheds light on the current Jesuit Ledesma-Kolvenbach University Paradigm, including its practical application and evaluation at the University of Deusto in Bilbao (part III). Third, this paper takes a brief look at the current reconsideration of active Jesuit pedagogy in Spain (and in Catalonia in particular), bearing in mind the contextualized convergences of educational philosophy (part IV). The concluding remarks address basic results from the analysis of these three elements.
La antesala de las conferencias de Washington entre Chile y Perú en la prensa estadounidense
Authors: Soto Lara José Julián , Chávez Zúñiga Pablo Sebastián
Published: July 2021

El objetivo del artículo es analizar el proceso de construcción de imaginarios sociales periodísticos efectuado por la prensa estadounidense durante los primeros meses de 1922 frente al inminente arbitraje que el presidente de ese país, Warren Harding, encabezaría para solucionar el conflicto limítrofe entre Chile y Perú, derivado de la Guerra del Pacífico (1879-1883), conocido con el nombre de la cuestión de Tacna y Arica. Para ello, el estudio confecciona una metodología de análisis de contenido cualitativo que distingue elementos estructurales de las noticias y otros referidos al texto periodístico que, concatenados, permitieron la emergencia de discursos sobre el diferendo sudamericano y el papel que debía jugar Estados Unidos. La muestra está compuesta de 108 noticias recopiladas de 26 periódicos de diferentes ciudades estadounidenses. Las conclusiones más relevantes destacan, en primer lugar, la importancia de la prensa en la construcción de imaginarios sociales periodísticos sobre el conflicto limítrofe chileno-peruano, representándolo como un riesgo para la estabilidad de América del Sur y, en segundo lugar y como extensión de lo anterior, caracterizan la producción de identidades nacionales diferenciales hacia los Estados partícipes en la búsqueda de un arreglo pacífico.
La implementación de la Ley de Memoria Histórica en la ciudad de La Coruña
Authors: Vázquez-Miraz Pedro
Published: July 2021

Se presenta en el siguiente artículo un estudio exploratorio sobre la aplicación en una ciudad española de tamaño medio de la denominada Ley de la Memoria Histórica (creada en el año 2007). A través de la heráldica y la numismática, al estudiar la evolución de los escudos oficiales de España (2ª república, franquismo y monarquía constitucional), se analizó la simbología del franquismo y la implementación de esta legislación en la ciudad de La Coruña en base a un análisis documental de las actas del ayuntamiento durante el período 2007-2019. La conclusión principal del trabajo fue que la puesta en práctica de este código legislativo, además de haberse basado en símbolos de ambigua catalogación, varió de forma significativa en base al partido gobernante que estuviera en el poder de la urbe (Partido Socialista Obrero Español, Partido Popular y Marea Atlántica); evidenciándose así que los parámetros políticos primaron por encima de los históricos y los jurídicos.
Detection of multidrug-resistant Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhi isolated from Iraqi subjects
Authors: Salman Hamzah Abdulrahman , Abdulmohsen Ali Mohammed , Falih Mays Noori , Romi Zahraa Mohmoud
Published: July 2021

Background and Aim: Enteric fever initiated by Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) is among the most consistent disease worldwide, particularly in developing countries. The present study aimed to isolate and identify S. Typhi from typhoid suspected patients and determine their antibacterial susceptibility testing.

Materials and Methods: Thirty blood samples were collected from typhoid suspected patients in Baghdad, Iraq. The samples were cultured on SS agar and XLD agar for screening of S. Typhi. The suspected colonies were picked up and subjected to Vitek 2 compact for biochemical identification and antibacterial susceptibility testing of the organisms. Molecular identification of the isolates was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results: Black colonies were observed on cultured plates. Out of 30 samples, 27 and 29 isolates were identified as S. Typhi using Vitek 2 compact and RT-PCR, respectively. The data of the present study revealed that the strains of S. Typhi were showing multidrug resistance. All S. Typhi strains exhibited resistance to penicillins (ticarcillin and piperacillin), cephalosporins 4th G (cefepime), and monobactam (aztreonam). However, all the strains showed susceptibility against carbapenems (imipenem and meropenem) and tetracycline (minocycline).

Conclusion: RT-PCR and Vitek 2 compact showed a high level of accuracy in the detection of S. Typhi. Multidrug resistance was observed, which is an alert for the reduction of antibiotic consumption.