bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-reported menses physiology is positively modulated by a well-formulated, energy-controlled ketogenic diet vs. low fat diet in women of reproductive age with overweight/obesity
Authors: Kackley Madison L. , Buga Alex , Brownlow Milene L. , O’Connor Annalouise , Sapper Teryn N. , Crabtree Christopher D. , Robinson Bradley T. , Stoner Justen T. , Decker Drew D. , Soma Loriana , Volek Jeff S.
Published: August 2024

Weight loss can positively alter female physiology; however, whether dietary carbohydrate- or fat- restriction confer unique effects is less studied. Precisely designed, hypocaloric well-formulated ketogenic diets (KD; ~75% energy for weight maintenance) were compared to isocaloric/isonitrogenous low-fat diet (LFD) on self-reported menses in pre-menopausal overweight and obese women (mean ± SD: 34 ± 10 years, BMI: 32.3 ± 2.7 kg/m2). Women received a precisely-weighed and formulated KD with either twice-daily with ketone salts (KS; n = 6) or a flavor-matched placebo (PL; n = 7) daily for six-weeks. An age and BMI-matched cohort (n = 6) was later assigned to the LFD and underwent the same testing procedures as the KD. Self-reported menses fluctuations were assessed bi-weekly along with measures of body weight, body composition, and fasting serum clinical chemistries using repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post-hoc corrections. Both diets elicited clinically-significant weight-loss (Δ: -7.0 ± 0.5 kg; p < 0.001), primarily from fat-mass (Δ: -4.6 ± 0.3 kg; p < 0.001), and improved insulin-sensitivity and serum lipids (all p < 0.05). Fasting plasma glucose and inflammatory markers were not different between diets. Fasting capillary beta-hydroxybutyrate (R-βHB) increased significantly during the KD, independent of supplementation (Δ: 1.2 ± 0.3 mM R-βHB; p < 0.001). Women randomized to the KD+KS (30%) and KD+PL (43%) reported subjective increases in menses frequency and intensity after 14 days, whereas another third reported a regain of menses (>1 year since the last period) after 28 days. No LFD participants reported menses changes. Nutrient-dense, whole-food KDs and LFD improved weight, BMI, body composition, and blood parameters in pre-menopausal women after six-weeks. Changes in self-reported menses were described by most of the KD participants, but none of the LFD women suggesting there may be unique effects of nutritional ketosis, independent of weight loss.
Intimate partner violence in Nepal: Analysis of Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2022
Authors: Sapkota Parash Mani , Pandey Achyut Raj , Adhikari Bikram , Shrestha Grishu , Piya Reecha , Lamichhane Bipul , Garu Shristi , Joshi Deepak , Baral Sushil Chandra
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a major public health issue in Nepal. IPV has social and economic impacts on women, family, and the wider society. In this study, we aimed to determine factors associated with IPV among currently partnered women aged 15–49.

Methods

We conducted a secondary data analysis of the Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2022. The study examines the lifetime prevalence of IPV. IPV was measured in three domains: experience of physical violence, emotional violence, and sexual violence. Weighted univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis were applied to determine factors associated with IPV. The results of logistic regression were presented as crude odds ratio (COR) and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and their 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Of 3853 women, 27.2% had experienced any form of IPV. The lifetime prevalence of physical violence, emotional violence, and sexual violence were 23.2%, 12.8%, and 7.1%, respectively. Higher odds of physical violence were reported among women aged 35–49 years (AOR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.58–2.87), women without formal education (AOR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.10–2.06), and women who justified wife-beating (AOR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.00–1.52). Women from poor households (AOR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.12–2.35) and women with uneducated partners (AOR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.08–2.58) were at higher risk of experiencing sexual violence. Women with unemployed husbands reported a higher risk of physical violence (AOR: 2.72, 95% CI: 1.45–5.06) and emotional violence (AOR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.12–2.35).

Conclusion

Almost one in three currently partnered women experienced some form of IPV in their lifetime. Various sociodemographic, partner-related, and women’s empowerment-related factors were associated with experiencing IPV. Acknowledging and addressing these factors is essential to mitigating the high rates of IPV among reproductive aged women.
Reconciliation without forgiveness? Reading Icíar Bollaín’s Maixabel (2021) with Hannah Arendt
Authors: Ungureanu Camil
Published: August 2024

The Spanish process of addressing Euskadi Ta Askatasuna’s (ETA) violent past has not followed a single transitional justice model or established a truth commission akin to those in South Africa, Latin America or Eastern and Central Europe. Instead, the case of Spain is marked by diverse legal, political and civic endeavours, sparking distinct discussions and artistic depictions regarding the dialectic between justice, forgiveness and reconciliation when addressing past crimes. By drawing on Hannah Arendt’s influential perspective on reconciliation and its critiques (in particular, by Jacques Derrida), this article combines philosophy and film studies to contribute to the interpretation of Icíar Bollaín’s recent film, Maixabel (2021). The film explores real-life instances of reconciliatory transformation that were part of the short-lived ‘reparatory encounters’ between ETA criminals and their victims. Bollaín’s realist directorial intent notwithstanding, the significance of the encounters and reparatory justice leading to personal healing and social reconciliation is not self-evident but a matter of debate and legitimately different standpoints and experiences. This article sheds light on the hidden cracks of the cinematic mirror of the reparatory encounters by analysing the directorial intent, Maixabel, and Maixabel Lasa’s testimony, the key inspiration for the movie. Bollaín’s understanding of her film and the reparatory encounters echoes the Arendtian vision in that it separates reconciliation from forgiveness. In contrast, the film, and the real-life Maixabel Lasa’s self-understanding, construct alternative views of reparatory reconciliation that embrace both public and personal acts of forgiveness. This leads to a phenomenologically richer depiction of reconciliation, forgiveness and transitional justice, one that does not conform to the rigid constraints of philosophical prescriptivism.
The performance of Spanish audio-visual productions abroad: Growing recognition amidst limited circulation and exports
Authors: García Leiva María Trinidad
Published: August 2024

In the last five years, the Spanish audio-visual industry has been shaped by the expansion of transnational on-demand audio-visual services as well as by the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, characterized by opportunities and challenges, such as an increase in production agreements, popular hits and critical acclaim, alongside industry concentration and inadequate financial support, the international market offers hope while promising strategic opportunity. This article portrays the strengths and weaknesses of Spanish cinematography and television on the global stage between 2016 and 2021. Although the industry has witnessed a discernible increase in international recognition, this does not make up for its limited circulation and modest export numbers.
Fables of Development: Capitalism and Social Imaginaries in Spain (1950–1967), Ana Fernández-Cebrián (2023)
Authors: de la Fuente Maite Usoz
Published: August 2024

Review of: Fables of Development: Capitalism and Social Imaginaries in Spain (1950–1967), Ana Fernández-Cebrián (2023)

Liverpool: Liverpool University Press, 210 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-80207-805-3, h/bk, £76

ISBN 978-1-80207-641-7, e-book, £76
Acoustic, Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Luffa/Jute Fiber-Reinforced Bio-Composites
Authors: Suba Johnson Annie , Boominathan Senthil Kumar
Published: August 2024

Due to the growing environmental awareness, more attention has been drawn to finding alternative fiber sources to curb deforestation and reduce the usage of synthetic fiber. In the current work, an attempt was made to hybrid bio-composites using the blended fibers of Luffa and Jute in different ratios. Eight different needle-punched nonwoven fabric samples were prepared with the variation of fiber blend ratios. Both the fibers were pre-treated with a 3% alkali concentration to enhance the bonding property with the resin. After this process, the polymer composites were produced using epoxy resin through the compression molding technique. The investigations, such as physical, mechanical, water absorption, dynamic mechanical (DMA), and acoustic properties of the composite material were analyzed systematically. The mechanical and DMA properties were appreciable for composites with higher jute content, whereas acoustic properties were higher for composites with higher Luffa content. Based on the findings, the hybrid composites showed effective functional performance in load-bearing and acoustic applications.
Joyful Education Berbasis Nilai Spiritual Religius di SD NU Galur Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta
Authors: Jamil Muhammad Wahib
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to explore fun educational programs in schools. This study used a phenomenological approach carried out at SD NU Galur Kulon Progo in Yogyakarta. Data was collected through interviews, observations, and in-depth discussions. The implementation of fun education at SD NU Galur is inseparable from the role of various stakeholders, the commitment of school residents, having the same direction and internalized in various school programs. Fun education programs at SD NU Galur Kulon Progo DI Yogyakarta can be a trendsetter for other schools to realize fun education. Fun education cannot be realized without the support of all components of education. For this reason, program synergy with various parties is imperative.
Pembentukan Karakter Siswa Melalui Pembiasaan Budaya Religius di MTs Al Mujahidin
Authors: Saidah Janatul , Falah Moh. Syamsul
Published: August 2024

This study discusses the implementation of religious culture in shaping the character of students at MTs Al Mujahidin Cikarang Utara, Bekasi. This study aims to explore in-depth information about how to shape student character through habituation of religious culture in schools. This research uses a qualitative approach with a type of case study research with data collection methods in the form of observation, interviews and documentation. The results showed that the formation of student character was carried out by socialization, habituation, and punishment methods. These three methods are carried out so that students can follow the applicable rules and form the character of students who are disciplined and responsible.
Group Investigation: Peningkatan Kualitas Proses Pembelajaran dan Hasil Belajar Geometri di SMP Negeri 1 Krangkeng Kabupaten Indramayu
Authors: Bashar Abdul
Published: August 2024

This study aims to determine the quality of the learning process and learning outcomes on geometry concept material using a group investigation learning model. This research is a Classroom Action Research (PTK) which is carried out in two cycles. The subjects of the study were students of Class VIII-A SMP Negeri 1 Krangkeng Indramayu Regency The results showed that the group investigation learning model could improve the quality of the learning process as shown by an increase in interest by 13.45% (cycle I: 70.34%, cycle II: 83.76%), and an increase in student learning outcomes by 14.48% (cycle I: 68.28%, cycle II: 82.76%).
Implementasi Keterampilan Berpikir HOTS pada Soal Asesmen Bahasa Indonesia di Madrasah Aliyah
Authors: Purwaningsih Herni , Widayati Mukti , Nurnaningsih Nurnaningsih
Published: August 2024

This study aims to describe the implementation of HOTS thinking skills in madrasah assessment problems based on material, construction, and language as well as Bloom's Taxonomy C4 (analyzing), C5 (evaluating), and C6 (creating). This research is descriptive qualitative research. Methods used interviews and documentation. The sources of this research data are teachers and students as well as documents on the assessment of madrasah Indonesian at MAN 1 Gunungkidul. The data validity test technique uses triangulation of sources and methods. Data was analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model stages. The results showed that the preparation of madrasah assessment questions was in accordance with the steps for preparing higher order thinking questions (HOTS). Based on the material analysis, 25 questions have fulfilled the material aspects in writing HOTS questions, 8 questions on one aspect have not been fulfilled, 7 questions have not been fulfilled on two aspects. Based on the construction of the questions, 5 questions meet the construction aspect, 2 questions one aspect is not fulfilled, 29 questions two aspects are not met, 4 questions three aspects are not met. Based on Language, as many as 29 questions meet the Language aspect, 11 questions do not meet. Based on Bloom's Taxonomy, the cognitive domain used is mostly the C4 cognitive level (analyzing). Based on 40 questions, 28 (70%) questions including the realm of analyzing (C4), the realm of evaluating (C5), and creating (C6) were not found. A total of 12 (30%) questions falls into the C3 question category.
Pengembangan Modul Menulis Puisi Berbasis Pendekatan Kontekstual untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar
Authors: Suhadaningsih Khori , Nugrahani Farida , Widayati Mukti
Published: August 2024

This study aims to describe the module of Poetry Writing Based on Contextual Approaches to improve learning outcomes. This study used the R&D method of Borg and Gall. The subject of the study was a student of grade VIII D MTs Negeri 3 Gunungkidul. The results showed (1) Product characteristics of the Contextual Approach-Based Poetry Writing module as follows: a) in the form of a printed module of Contextual Approach-Based Poetry Writing; b) the material presented is associated with things around life, so that students more easily understand the material; c) module preparation refers to the contextual learning flow; d) the module contains material for writing poetry based on a contextual approach contained in contextual steps; e) Modules can be used in classroom learning and self-study for students at home. 2) The feasibility of the Contextual Approach Based Poetry Writing module based on the assessment of experts, practitioners, teacher, and student responses provides excellent categories and deserves to be used. 3) the product is effective in increasing knowledge, (N-gain score 0.6533), attitude (6%), and skills (9%).
Snowball Throwing Method: Peningkatan Hasil Belajar pada Materi Zaman Pra Aksara di SMK Negeri Purwosari
Authors: Agni Daeng Galuh Puspita , Haryudo Subuh Isnur
Published: August 2024

This research aims to improve student learning outcomes using a cooperative learning method with a snowball throwing model. This study uses the classroom action research method with qualitative descriptive analysis. Data is collected through observation, documentation, and reflection. The subject of the study was a student of class X Rpl A at SMK Negeri Purwosari. The results showed that cooperative learning using the snowball throwing model could increase learning outcomes by 22% from an average of 54.2 to 66.2. This learning can also increase student activity by 53%. The snowball throwing model can also train students' leadership potential, skills, and creativity.
Pembelajaran “Rasenda” untuk Meningkatkan Keaktifan dan Hasil Belajar IPA di MTs Negeri 1 Bantul
Authors: Budiati Asih
Published: August 2024

This study aims to improve student activeness and learning outcomes in science subjects. This research is a best practice with the subject of research being class IX-E students at MTs Negeri 1 Bantul. This study tries to describe Rasenda's learning method (Summarizing, Percentage, and Deepening of Material). Data were collected through observation, documentation, and learning outcomes tests. Data analysis uses qualitative analysis techniques. The results showed that the Rasenda model had a positive effect on the activeness and learning outcomes of science. This is shown by the increase in student activity during learning at all stages of Rasenda by 60.8% in material I and increased to 80.7% at the end of material II. Similarly, student learning outcomes are the highest score of 78 in material I to 87 in material II, the lowest score of 60 in material I to 67 in material II, and the average score from 65.56 in material I to 80.20 in material II. The Rasenda method can improve activeness and science learning outcomes in MTs Negeri 1 Bantul for the 2023-2024 academic year.
Upaya Meningkatkan Minat dan Hasil Belajar IPA Menggunakan Model Pembelajaran Problem Based Learning di MTs Negeri 7 Sleman
Authors: Astuti Rita
Published: August 2024

This study is classroom action research, aiming to find out whether the PBL learning model can increase students' interest and learning outcomes in science at MTs Negeri 7 Sleman. This research was carried out in two cycles which included planning, action, observing, and reflection activities which were carried out in two cycles. The subject of the study is 7th grade students. Data collection uses observation methods with checklist instruments and performance tests. The data obtained were analyzed descriptively. The results of the study showed the completeness of classical learning outcomes in the first cycle, namely with an average score of 67.24 and 55.17% (16 students) with the complete category, while in the second cycle there was an increase with an average score of 80.11 and 84.62% (22 students) with the complete category. The conclusion of this study is that the PBL learning model can improve the learning outcomes of students with science material at MTs Negeri 7 Sleman.
The Karyotype of Holoaden luederwaldti (Anura, Strabomantidae), with Report of Natural Triploidy
Authors: Campos João R. C. , Martins I. A. , Haddad C. F. B. , Kasahara S.
Published: August 2024

The genus Holoaden includes three species described so far, but the only published cytogenetic data is from Holoaden bradei, with the karyotype 2n = 18, based on conventional staining. In the present paper we report, for the first time, data on chromosomes of H. luederwaldti, which presented 2n = 18 and a case of natural triploidy, with 2n = 3x = 27. In this sample, another karyotypic variation was observed due to the occurrence of two types of chromosome 8, which present submetacentric or subtelocentric morphologies. Homomorphic subtelocentric or heteromorphic condition was observed among the diploid specimens, whereas the triploid had one submetacentric and two subtelocentric chromosomes 8. In all specimens, Ag-NOR was located in the long arms of chromosomes 8, at the interstitial region when subtelocentric, or in the proximal region when submetacentric, confirmed by fluorescent in situ hybridization with the HM123 probe. The C bands showed centromeric distribution and distribution at Ag-NOR site. The centromeric heterochromatin was fluorescent with DAPI staining, whereas the AgNOR displayed bright fluorescence with CMA3. Fluorescent in situ hybridization using a telomeric probe labelled exclusively the telomere regions. Although the same 2n = 18 chromosome numbers have been observed in H. luederwaldti and H. bradei, some differences in both karyotypes can be visualized, mainly with regard to the morphology of the last chromosome pairs.
Antibacterial activity of ethanolic extract of (Ammi visnaga) seeds against some types of bacteria
Authors: Salman Ammar H. , Shwaish Mohammed Moslih
Published: August 2024

Modern and traditional medicines both make use of the medicinal plant Ammi visnaga L. This species of plant belongs to the Apiaceae family and is originally from Asia, Europe, and the North African Mediterranean. A. visnaga has many medicinal properties as well as active ingredients, including flavonoids, essential oils, and furobenzopyrones (FBP). In the aim of this study, the antibacterial effect of A. visnaga seeds was tested against two bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia. The seeds were extracted using 70% ethyl alcohol and the method of agar diffusion was used to test the antibacterial effect. Several concentrations of the extract were prepared (6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 mg/mL) and 3 plates were used for each concentration, each plate containing three pores. The results showed weak efficacy of seeds extract against the bacteria that was used in the study, as the zone of inhibition did not appear in concentrations below 600 mg/mL. The zones of inhibition formed at 800 and 400 mg/mL concentrations of extract were (1.8±0.4) mm and (1.83±0.11) mm, respectively, against S. aureus and (2.13±0.15) mm and (1.83±0.05) mm, respectively, against K. pneumonia. These results showed poor activity of plant seeds against the 2 types of bacteria used in this study.
Critical appraisal of the CLSI guideline EP09c “measurement procedure comparison and bias estimation using patient samples”
Authors: Cesana Bruno Mario , Antonelli Paolo , Ferraro Simona
Published: August 2024

Background

In laboratory setting evaluating the agreement between two measurement methods is a very frequent practice. Unfortunately, the guidelines to refer to are not free from criticisms from a statistical methodological point of view. We reviewed the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guideline EP09c, 3rd ed. pointing out some drawbacks and some aspects that have not been well defined, leaving situations of uncertainty and/or of excessive subjectivity in the judgement.

Content

We have stressed the need of having replicates to estimate the systematic and the proportional biases of the measurement methods to be compared. Indeed, unequal variance of the two measurement methods gives a slope and intercept of the regression between the difference and the mean of the two values of the measurement methods to be compared that can be absolutely calculated from their means, their variances and their correlation coefficient. So, it is not possible to disentangle true from spurious biases. For laboratory professionals we have developed a worked exemplification of an agreement assessment.

We have stressed the need of other approaches than the classic Bland and Altman method to calculate the systematic and proportional biases of two measurement methods compared for their agreement in a study with replicates.
Is the EU’s AI Act Merely a Distraction from Europe’s Productivity Problem?
Authors: Meyers Zach
Published: August 2024

Solving the EU’s productivity problem will require greater use of technologies. Artificial intelligence is of particular interest given its potential to boost productivity in the services sector, where productivity growth in Europe has been particularly weak. While touted as a mechanism to boost trust in and the use of AI in Europe, the EU’s AI Act risks dampening investment. Aspects of its design and implementation should mitigate these risks, however, so that the overall impact of the bloc’s landmark law on European productivity will likely prove modest. The bigger problem is that European leaders’ focus on the law has detracted from more important steps to boost productivity – such as developing the EU’s capital markets union, addressing the lack of digital skills, and developing the single market to boost business dynamism.
Innovative exploration of designing the ‘Host Defense and Immunology’ course based on the concept of seamless learning
Authors: Niu Xiaoyin , Xi Yebin , Chen Guangjie
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The ‘Host Defense and Immunology’ course is compulsory for undergraduate students majoring in clinical medicine at Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. In order to promote students’ self-directed and active learning, we innovated teaching activities around ‘seamless learning’ which is emphasising learner-centredness.

Methods

Guided by the concept of seamless learning, we integrated teaching content, constructed course resources, innovated course-teaching modes, and reformed assessment and evaluation. Then two survey questionnaires were provided to students to get feedback on the course achievement. One set of survey questionnaire with written descriptions was designed to collect feedback on the overall evaluation of the course. Another survey questionnaire was presented in the form of multiple-choice questions to get feedback on more specific questions.

Results

294 questionnaires were distributed to eight-year clinical medicine students in years 2021–2022, and 234 were valid. Overall student feedback revealed that the students mastered the immunological basic theories, research techniques and have acquired integrated systematic thinking. The students also deepened their application ability, pursued clinical rigor and logic, and shaped their clinical thinking patterns. The survey questionnaire revealed that the comprehensive immunological mind map was highly beneficial for analysing clinical immunological problems, understanding immunological principles, grasping interrelationships between knowledge points, and fostering self-learning abilities. Case-based learning (CBL), micro-lecture videos, and learning about scientists’ and doctors’ stories also had positive effects on students’ active learning, understanding, logical thinking, innovation, and humanistic literacy, with over 79 % of students reporting benefits.

Conclusions

Based on seamless learning, students acquired integrated systematic thinking through the course, shaped clinical thinking patterns, developed communication and collaboration skills, and enhanced their ability to analyse and solve clinical problems. The exploration and practice of the ‘Host Defense and Immunology’ course provides a good example for the integration of seamless learning concepts into teaching.
Methodology of probabilistic safety assessment for transportation of radioactive material
Authors: Kumar Manorma , Cortes-Rossell Guillem
Published: August 2024

The paper is focused on how to apply the Probabilistic Safety Assessment (PSA) methodology to assess the nuclear safety risks associated with the transportation of radioactive material. The methodology is comprehensive and covers the different mode of transports (for example, by road, by train, by ship and by air) used for the transportation of radioactive material. This methodology can be applied to any specific mode of transportation of radioactive material as well as to any specific country. The systematic assessment starts with identification of risk associated with transportation mode and its initiating events to analyze what can go wrong in transportation of radioactive material and how likely it can be. The accident involving the radioactive material has sensitive information and this information is not publicly available, therefore the generic accident data can be utilized to develop the probabilistic models and quantify the risk associated with radioactive material transportation. Another fact is the transportation of radioactive material accidents are extremely rare, consequently the associated statistics are insufficient for the development of PSA models. The lack of statistical data induced the need to use the generic accident data for predicting accident frequency estimations. The paper explores the feasibility of using probabilistic methods to assess the safety risks associated with radioactive material transport. The paper describes how to perform the comprehensive probabilistic assessment and creating a generic accident event tree that is based on road traffic accident data. The focus of the event tree is to outline a range of different traffic accident scenarios and their respective probability of occurrence and its consequences.
A new approach to determine abnormality of radioactive discharges from pressurized water reactors and to derive abnormality indicators correlated with a specific causal event
Authors: Kang Ji Su , Cheong Jae Hak
Published: August 2024

A novel methodology to analyze the trend of radioactive effluent data from nuclear power plants (NPPs) has been proposed to estimate the possibility of abnormal releases of radioactive materials, and to identify sensitive radionuclides with high correlation to specific events and abnormal releases. Actual discharge data including abnormal releases for 21 years (1,610 reactor-years) from 62 US and 22 Korean pressurized water reactors were collected. A release correlation factor (RCF) was newly proposed as a quantitative indicator of the abnormality of radioactive discharges based on annual discharge data from each NPP. The probability of correct estimation of abnormality using the RCF for a test case ranges 27–36 %, and such a modest estimation power was ascribed to the relatively low contribution (i.e., about 12 %) of a specific causal event to the annual radioactivity release. Through this, the feasibility of the RCF for estimating the abnormality of radioactive discharges was demonstrated. The RCF was derived for three types of causal events, and subsequently the sensitive radionuclides to each specific event were derived as 88Kr, 137Xe, and 138Xe for leakage from gas decay tank, 3H for leakage from steam generator’s power operated relief valve, and 85Kr, 88Kr, 133Xe, 133mXe, 3H and 14C for leakage from defected spent fuel during handling. The new approach proposed in this study is to be used to suppose the significant unreported abnormality in radioactive effluent data and the potential causal event, which may contribute to improving the safety and performance of radioactive effluent control as necessary.
A deep dive into AI integration and advanced nanobiosensor technologies for enhanced bacterial infection monitoring
Authors: Khan Habib , Jan Zahoor , Ullah Inam , Alwabli Abdullah , Alharbi Faisal , Habib Shabana , Islam Muhammad , Shin Byung-Joo , Lee Mi Young , Koo JaKeoung
Published: August 2024

The emergence of smart and nanobiosensor (NB) technologies has transformed the monitoring and management of bacterial infections. These developments offer remarkable accuracy and precision for detecting infectious pathogens. Smart artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted and NB-based methods are used as powerful tools in biomedicine for bacterial detection, combatting multidrug resistance, and diagnosing infections. In this study, we delve into the advancements in these technologies, focusing on AI-based techniques for NBs in detecting bacterial infections from 2019 to 2024. We analyze the contributions of machine learning and deep learning techniques to enhance performance and reliability. The new approaches to improve the effectiveness and versatility of antibacterial treatments are critically analyzed. Our study includes the observations of carbon nanoparticles that selectively target bacteria using photothermal properties and the production of hybrid hydrogel composites with capabilities. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the crucial significance of NBs in propelling the progress of diagnostic methods, biosensing technologies, and treatments, thereby transforming the healthcare industry and the way diseases are managed. In addition, we explore pathogen-based infections, bacterial diagnosis, and treatment using engineered NBs enhanced with various modalities such as electrochemistry, acoustics, electromagnetism, and photothermal resonance. Our comprehensive review highlights the potential and throws light on future research directions for effective management and control of bacterial infections.
Nonvanishing minors of eigenvector matrices and consequences
Authors: Emmrich Tarek
Published: August 2024

For a matrix

M
∈

K

n
×
n

{\bf{M}}\in {{\mathbb{K}}}^{n\times n}

, we establish a condition on the Galois group of the characteristic polynomial

φ

M

{\varphi }_{{\bf{M}}}

that induces nonvanishing of the minors of the eigenvector matrix of

M

{\bf{M}}

. For integer matrices, recent results by Eberhard show that, conditionally on the extended Riemann hypothesis, this condition is satisfied with high probability (We say “with high probability” for probability

1
−
o

(

1

)

1-o\left(1)

as

n
→
∞

n\to \infty

.) and hence, with high probability, the minors of eigenvector matrices of random integer matrices are nonzero. For random graphs, this yields a novel uncertainty principle, related to Chebotarëv’s theorem on the roots of unity and results from Tao and Meshulam. We also show the application in graph signal processing and the connection to the rank of the walk matrix.
Impact of exercise and fasting on mitochondrial regulators in human muscle
Authors: Menezes Eveline S. , Islam Hashim , Arhen Benjamin B. , Simpson Craig A. , McGlory Chris , Gurd Brendon J.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To investigate the impact of acute energetic stress (acute HIIE and fasting) on ERRγ, PPARβ, NR1D1, NR4A1, and TFEB in human skeletal muscle.

Methods

The current study performed secondary analyses using muscle biopsy samples from two previously published studies: study 1) leg muscle biopsies from nine men and eight women were obtained pre and 3 h following acute high-intensity interval cycling exercise (HIIE); study 2) leg muscle biopsies were obtained from nine men pre-, during, and post-an 8 h fast with or without 2 h of arm ergometer exercise. RT-PCR was performed on samples from each study to determine the mRNA expression of ERRγ, PPARβ, NR1D1, NR4A1, and TFEB. Additionally, we retrieved data from meta-analyzed human muscle gene expression using the publicly available database MetaMex.

Results

PGC-1α (p<0.01, d=1.98) and NR4A1 (p<0.01, d=1.36) mRNA expression significantly increased while TFEB (p≤0.05, d=0.70) decreased following HIIE. Significant decreases in NR4A1 and NR1D1 mRNA expression were observed following an 8 h fast. Our MetaMex analyses revealed significant increases (p<0.05) in PGC-1α and NR4A1 expression following aerobic and resistance exercise, and in PPARβ expression following resistance exercise.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that acute HIIE stimulates increases in NR4A1 and PGC-1α and decreases in TFEB mRNA expression in human skeletal muscle. Additionally, a short term (8 h) fast reduced the mRNA expression of the transcriptional regulators NR4A1 and NR1D1 – potentially as a mechanism of decreasing mitochondrial biogenesis to reduce energy expenditure during a period of restricted energy availability.
Pedagogia dos multiletramentos e desafios para uso das novas tecnologias digitais em sala de aula no ensino de língua portuguesa
Authors: Gaydeczka Beatriz , Mário Karwoski Acir
Published: August 2024

Este artigo ​discute como alguns conceitos ​da pedagogia dos multiletramentos ​são concebidos na ​área de educação. A discussão baseia-se em ​teorias e ​em análises de projetos de pesquisa de iniciação científica e na visão de professores participantes de cursos de formação continuada cuja temática ​foi o uso ​das novas tecnologias​ digitais de ​informação e comunicação em aulas de língua portuguesa. Em síntese, observa-se que a inserção das tecnologias ​acontece na maioria das escolas. Os principais problemas estão relacionados à adaptação de infraestrutura e à preparação dos professores para o uso efetivo​ das tecnologias​. Em contrapartida, as ​principais ​vantagens ​são desenvolvimento de atividades inovadoras, facilidade de acesso de informações, motivação, interesse dos estudantes em função d​o​ dinamismo das estratégias didáticas integradas à aula e​, por fim, a ​necessidade de uma nova ética de uso consciente ​das tecnologias ​para a aprendizagem.
Processo de textualização verbo-visual: análise de princípios de diagramação e seus efeitos de sentido em práticas letradas acadêmicas
Authors: Komesu Fabiana , Rampazzo Gambarato Renira , Tenani Luciani
Published: August 2024

Este trabalho discute os chamados aspectos “ocultos” dos letramentos (STREET, 2009) como índices de presumidos sociais (VOLOSHINOV, BAKHTIN, 2013; CORRÊA, 2011), na tentativa de refletir, de uma perspectiva linguístico-discursiva, sobre a apropriação de princípios da diagramação, reconhecidos em estudos semióticos no tratamento investigativo do processo de textualização verbo-visual na contemporaneidade, nas chamadas práticas comunicativas multimodais. O conjunto do material é formado de 25 textos produzidos por universitários em contexto semipresencial, numa universidade pública do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. A partir da análise desse material, tenciona-se contribuir com os estudos de letramento, em particular, no que se refere aos estudos de letramento acadêmico em contexto digital, considerando-se contato direto e/ou indireto, cada vez mais frequente e precoce, entre grupos sociais e tecnologias de informação e comunicação.
Práticas de leitura no contexto acadêmico: a constituição histórica do sujeito-leitor e dos sentidos
Authors: Correa Silveira Galli Fernanda
Published: August 2024

Este artigo aborda práticas de leitura no contexto acadêmico com foco na caracterização dos modos de ler na/em rede e seus efeitos na formação do sujeito-leitor universitário. De modo mais específico, busca compreender a constituição histórica dos sujeitos-leitores e dos sentidos a partir do “dito” (pelo estabilizado dos recursos eletrônicos) e do “compreendido” (pelas discursividades possíveis) nos percursos de leitura/escrita realizados por universitários. Com base nas perspectivas teóricas da Análise do Discurso de linha francesa e dos Estudos de Letramento, interpreta o material – produzido em um curso de extensão universitário sobre leitura e ciberespaço – com o intuito de contribuir para uma discussão sobre a inscrição do sujeito-leitor nas/em redes de leitura e nas redes de (in)formação contemporâneas, e, ainda, para a questão dos letramentos na formação do atual e futuro professor.
Os Multiletramentos nas aulas de língua portuguesa no Ensino Médio
Authors: Maria Pereira Lima Ana , Cláudia Pinheiro Regina
Published: August 2024

Os professores de Língua Portuguesa do Ensino Médio vêm inserindo as tecnologias de informação e comunicação em suas aulas, no entanto, os potenciais dessas tecnologias têm sido, muitas vezes, subutilizados. Essa constatação nos instigou a investigar como esses professores trabalham os multiletramentos, por meio dos gêneros discursivos em ambientes digitais, em suas aulas de leitura e como é tratada a multimodalidade constitutiva desses gêneros. Para a realização deste trabalho, fundamentamo-nos, principalmente, em Rojo (2012), Pasquotte-Vieira; Silva; Alencar (2012), Costa (2003, 2010) e Cope; Kalantzis (2000) e filmamos aulas em que professores utilizam as tecnologias de informação e comunicação (TICs) no ensino de práticas de leitura para posterior análise. Os resultados comprovam que o professor participante, ao privilegiar o roteiro do livro didático, desconsidera a multimodalidade dos gêneros, legitimando apenas a modalidade escrita e desconsiderando os outros modos de construir sentido. Concluímos afirmando que a pedagogia dos multiletramentos pode oferecer contribuições para a problemática da leitura de gêneros oriundos da internet ou que circulam no ambiente digital.
O Ensino do léxico na disciplina de português — língua materna, no Ensino Fundamental brasileiro
Authors: Sipavicius Seide Márcia , Cristina Hintze Ana
Published: August 2024

Este artigo apresenta uma avaliação crítica do ensino do léxico como parte do conteúdo programático de língua portuguesa como língua materna. Contextualizando a questão, propostas oficiais de ensino do léxico são recuperadas e sintetizadas e o Programa do Livro Didático em 2011 e em 2013 é examinado para averiguar em que medida a avaliação das obras informa o professor sobre como o ensino do léxico é proposto nos livros didáticos aprovados. Contextualizada essa questão, descreve-se a abordagem funcionalista de ensino do léxico. A transposição didática dessa abordagem é exemplificada mediante exercícios e explicitação dos procedimentos metodológicos visando sua aplicação em sala de aula. Espera-se que esta pesquisa possa contribuir para a valorização e a divulgação de abordagens adequadas de ensino do léxico em aulas de português como língua materna.
O Ensino dialógico de literatura em língua inglesa no curso de Letras: diferentes espaços
Authors: Marden Bandeira de Melo Jr Orison
Published: August 2024

Este artigo objetiva discutir o papel da literatura em língua inglesa nos cursos de Letras, envolvendo, dessa forma, o seu ensino. Para tal, foi dividido em quatro seções que correspondem a quatro espaços por ela ocupados: espaço de enriquecimento, de desafios, de análises e de construção. Com base nos pressupostos teóricos da Análise dialógica do discurso (ADD), percebeu-se que, apesar dos desafios inerentes ao ensino de literatura em uma língua estrangeira no Brasil e daqueles estabelecidos pelos documentos oficiais, o seu ensino a partir de textos em seus originais em inglês permite o enriquecimento não só do conhecimento do aluno dessa língua estrangeira, como também dos seus próprios discursos interiores, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento não de professores tarefeiros, mas de educadores e pesquisadores em constante devir.
Perfil lexical de redações de futuros professores de língua inglesa: um estudo de caso
Authors: Batista da Silva Eduardo
Published: August 2024

O Exame de Proficiência para Professores de Língua Estrangeira (EPPLE) apresenta-se como um recurso para avaliar a competência linguística em língua inglesa de futuros professores. A orientação teórica aqui utilizada baseia-se na Linguística Aplicada, na Linguística de Corpus e na Lexicologia. O objetivo geral deste trabalho é discutir a aplicação do EPPLE como um instrumento de avaliação da qualidade de produção linguística escrita dos futuros professores de língua inglesa. O objetivo específico é apresentar dados obtidos a partir da análise de redações. Quanto à metodologia, foram analisadas 18 redações em língua inglesa escritas por alunos do 4° ano de Letras de uma universidade pública do estado de São Paulo. Todas as redações foram digitalizadas e a análise linguístico-estatística realizada pelo software VocabProfile. Os resultados apontam que as redações dos formandos analisados possuem um vocabulário considerado satisfatório com o seguinte perfil lexical: K1: 85,3%; K2: 2,75%; AWL: 5,75 e OFF:6,2%.
Ensino-aprendizagem de português como língua estrangeira e materna: discursividades na formação inicial
Authors: Carvalho de Paula Brito Cristiane , Divina de Araújo Priscila
Published: August 2024

Com base nos estudos em Linguística Aplicada em interface com perspectivas discursivas de linguagem, visamos (i) analisar representações de professores de português como língua estrangeira (PLE) em formação inicial acerca do ‘saber português’ como língua materna e como língua estrangeira, do ensino-aprendizagem e de si mesmos enquanto professores de PLE; e (ii) investigar as vozes que sustentam essas representações. Vozes dos discursos pedagógico tradicional e contemporâneo e acadêmico-institucional dialogam e se confrontam e fazem vir à tona a representação de que saber português é saber a norma padrão e saber se comunicar em diferentes contextos. Sobre os processos de ensino-aprendizagem, observam-se as seguintes representações: a não coincidência de aspectos linguísticos gera dificuldades na aprendizagem de PLE; o método comparativo auxilia o processo de ensino-aprendizagem do PLE; e o ensino de PLE se configura como lugar de inovação. Ao falarem de si mesmos, os sujeitos se projetam como aquele que valoriza o interesse e a realidade do aluno; transmite conteúdos; e atua como mediador cultural.
Combination of torrefaction and leaching treatments on the solid biofuel characteristics of fast-growing timbers species and oil palm biomass
Authors: Lee Chuan Li , Chin Kit Ling , Abdullah Chuah Luqman , Mohd Sahfani Hafizuddin , Khoo Pui San
Published: August 2024

The potential of integrating acid acetic leaching and torrefaction processes was studied to create an enhanced solid biofuel from lignocellulosic biomass. The focus was on evaluating the impact of these combined methods on ash removal efficiency and the melting characteristics of the treated biomass. Two possible strategies were considered: implementing torrefaction first followed by leaching, or conducting leaching first followed by torrefaction. By incorporating both leaching and torrefaction treatments, regardless of order, a solid biofuel with improved properties was attained, especially in terms of higher heating value yield and ash melting temperature compared to individual treatment (either only torrefaction or only leaching). Depending on the sequencing of the leaching treatment, there was a reduction in ash yield from raw biomass ranging between 60% and 86%, while for torrefied biomass it was between 47% and 68%. Leaching treatment before torrefaction treatment was determined to be a more effective combination.
Nanocellulose production from walnut pruning wastes using hydrated deep eutectic solvent as paper strength additives
Authors: Fidan Hakan , Çetin Nihat Sami
Published: August 2024

The valorization potential of industrial walnut pruning wastes was investigated as a value-added product. Nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) was prepared from walnut pruning wastes via hydrated choline chloride-lactic acid deep eutectic solvent (ChCl-LA DES) pretreatment followed by grinding, and these were used as paper strength additives. The effect of reaction time on NFC properties were investigated and compared. The structure of nanocellulose was determined by Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and rheological analysis. The results show that carboxylated NFC having high aspect ratio could be successfully isolated after DES-pretreatment with the average diameter of 39 to 77 nm. Prepared NFC was added to the bulk suspensions of papermaking slurries at various percentages (up to 8%) together with poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride). The drainage and electrokinetic properties of the pulp and mechanical properties of fabricated handsheets were analyzed and compared. The addition of 1% NFC to the bulk suspensions increased tensile index by 14.2% and burst index by 6.3%. There were further increases observed up to 71.8% in tensile index and up to 72.3% in burst index at 8% NFC addition. Results indicate that DES pretreated cellulose nanofibrils have great potential as reinforcing agent in papermaking.