bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep reinforcement learning for collision avoidance of autonomous ships in inland rivers
Authors: Zhang Xiuxia , Sun Tingting
Published: November 2024

Due to the characteristics of large inertia, large time delay and non-linearity in ship motion, the manoeuvrability of ships is an important issue related to the safety of ship navigation. The manipulation of ships significantly affects the safety of ship navigation, and its importance will gradually increase with the development of autonomous ships (ASs). Due to the complexity of inland waterways and the density of ships, collisions are common. In this work, an autonomous learning framework with deep reinforcement learning (DRL) was constructed for ASs. The state space, action space, reward function and neural network structure of DRL were designed based on the AS's manoeuvring characteristics and control requirements. A deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm was then used to implement the controller. Finally, some representative route segments of an inland waterway were selected for simulation research based on a virtual simulation environment. The designed DRL controller was able to quickly converge from the training and learning process to meet the control requirements. The effectiveness of the DDPG algorithm was verified by comparisons with the experimental results. This study provides a reference for future research on collision-avoidance technology for ASs in inland rivers.
Acoustic correlates of GIVENness in Icelandic: Revisiting the Radical Deaccentuation hypothesis
Authors: Güneş Güliz , Dehé Nicole
Published: November 2024

This paper discusses whether there is a direct link between GIVENness-related deaccentuation and ellipsis. The idea that ellipsis can only target already-deaccented material with “distinguished low-flat intonation” (Chomsky & Lasnik 1993: 564) is known as the Radical Deaccentuation (RD) account (see e.g. Tancredi 1992). Icelandic represents a challenge for RD, as it permits (clausal) ellipsis (Wood et al. 2016, 2020) yet does not seem to display deaccentuation (Nolan & Jónsdóttir 2001, Dehé 2009). We conducted a prosodic production experiment to investigate the acoustic correlates of post-focal GIVENness in pre-elliptic clauses in Icelandic to determine if Icelandic undermines the RD theory. We found that Icelandic exhibits prosodic attenuation in pre-elliptic clauses, such that pitch accents of given items are realized, yet they exhibit lower overall F0, and shorter duration. We also found a difference in prosodic constituency between all-new and pre-elliptic clauses, such that the given part in only the pre-elliptic condition is structur-ally integrated to the prosodic domain of the focused item. Our empirical findings are compatible with a weaker version of RD, namely one which treats ‘deaccentuation’ as a cover term for any acoustic effect related to the prosodic marking of GIVENness.
The model for an efficient development of innovation activities in industrial enterprises
Authors:   Samara National Research University, Vasyaycheva Vera A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. The current economic situation determines specific requirements for the development of domestic industrial structures. These requirements are designed to enhance structures’ innovation activities and accelerate scientific and technological update for technological sovereignty and higher competitiveness in the world market. However, a number of challenges hinder the innovative development of enterprises and prevent a change in their ranking status among leading high-tech companies. A lack of efficient innovation activities could be explained by the imperfect methodological tools applied to innovation management and template thinking typical for the majority of top managers, which both erects barriers to progressive changes and provides prerequisites for new formidable challenges in strategy implementation for the rapid development of the Russian economy.
ZUM THEMA — Jan Bürger, Stephan Schlak
Authors: Bürger Jan , Schlak Stephan
Published: November 2024

Eine Anzeige erregte in diesem Sommer die kulturelle Republik. Für 4,1 Millionen Euro wurde die «Unseld-Villa» im Frankfurter Holzhausenviertel zum Kauf angeboten. Literaturkritiker rezensierten daraufhin ein Makler-Exposé – als ob Gottfried Zürn in einem letzten großen Martin-Walser-Roman einen neuen Auftrag an Land gezogen hätte. Dem Verkaufspreis wurde der symbolische Wert des Hauses gegenübergestellt: Siegfried Unseld hatte es seit 1959 bis zu seinem Tod über vier Jahrzehnte lang bewohnt. Wie aus einem langen, efeuumfangenen Schlaf schien die Villa noch einmal zu erwachen und die wilde Energie zurück- zukehren, die dieses Zentralquartier der intellektuellen Nachkriegsrepublik einmal von innen erleuchtet hatte.
Las voces de lideresas y líderes sociales en la práctica pedagógica de Trabajo Social
Authors: Chamorro Caicedo Luz Stella
Published: November 2024

Objetivo.Construir espacios de reflexión ciudadana con relación a los retos de la construcción de paz territorial, reconciliación y restauración que involucre a los líderes y las lideresas de las organizaciones de víctimas de La Dorada-Caldas y que al tiempo sus conversaciones permitan la formación de identidad profesional en Trabajo Social. Metodología. Investigación acción participativa, lo que construyó un diálogo de saberes ético, político y de acción entre los participantes. Resultados. La práctica pedagógica es un saber propio de la acción de una investigación/intervención y los semilleros son posibilitadores de experiencias sensibles en la formación de trabajadores sociales. Conclusiones. La mediación pedagógica como pódcast favorece una conversación negociada, conciliada y ética de la acción profesional.
Cuestión social y progresismos en América Latina y África: el pensamiento crítico en la encrucijada
Authors: Monteiro Amor António , Siqueira da Silva José Fernando , Raichelis Raquel , Ramos de Godoi Diniz Tania Maria
Published: November 2024

El artículo debate el significado de la cuestión social y de sus múltiples refracciones en parte de la periferia del capital (América Latina y África), así como analiza algunas de las particularidades de este orden social como unidad en la diversidad, en regiones que históricamente han contribuido con la acumulación de capital y estimulado prácticas anticapitalistas. A partir de eso, en el texto se analiza lo que más recientemente se ha caracterizado como progresismos, sus potencialidades y sus límites. En las notas finales, se indaga sobre el alcance de las agendas progresistas y nacionalistas para promover la erradicación de las causas estructurales que alimentan la desigualdad social en el capitalismo, más aún en el marco de los países periféricos y dependientes. A la vez, apunta cuestiones que desafían el trabajo social en la implementación de un proyecto ético-político profesional radicalmenteanticapitalista en América Latina y África.
The South African Journal of Science: A biography
Authors: Carruthers Jane
Published: November 2024

This article provides a chronological account of the South African Journal of Science (SAJS) from its inception in 1903 up to the present. This approach clarifies the shifts in emphasis and purpose as the Journal moved through changing publishing structures. Over the course of a century, the SAJS evolved from a publication that included both lay and professional contributions into a formal professionalised scholarly journal while retaining its accessibility. Originally appearing as the Report of the South African Association for the Advancement of Science (S2A3), for many decades the content presented the work of people with scientific interests, as reflected at the Annual Meetings of the S2A3 convened at various locations around southern Africa. Its objective was to serve as a means of communication between scientific workers in all fields and at different levels and not to restrict itself to publishing erudite original findings alone. A further aim was to communicate interesting evidence-based knowledge to the general public, thereby linking science to broader society. From those beginnings, the article traces the numerous changes in format, regularity, quality and financing over a century. As science and scientists became more formalised in South Africa, editorial disciplines were introduced, and higher quality contributions were solicited. Financial considerations thrust the Journal under different publishing umbrellas. Authors became more professional and disciplined in their publications. This article chronicles the development of the SAJS into the open-access scholarly multidisciplinary journal it is today.
Ortaöğretim Öğrencilerinde Okul Yaşam Kalitesi, Okula Yabancılaşma ve Sosyal Adalet Algısı Arasındaki İlişki
Authors: İlmaz Merve , Atmaca Taner
Published: November 2024

: Bu araştırmanın temel amacı ortaöğretim öğrencilerinde okul yaşam kalitesi, okula yabancılaşma ve okullarda sosyal adalet algısı arasındaki ilişkiyi belirleyebilmektir. Araştırma, nicel metodoloji geleneği içinde yer alan ilişkisel tarama modeli ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın hedef evrenini resmî verilere göre belirlenen 28.667 öğrenci meydana getirirken örneklemini uygun örneklem tekniği kullanılarak seçilen ve Düzce ilinde farklı ortaöğretim kurumlarına 2022-2023 eğitim-öğretim yılında devam eden 874 ortaöğretim öğrencisi oluşturmaktadır. Toplamda üç farklı ölçekle veriler toplanmış ve parametrik testlerle analizler gerçekleştirilmiştir. Elde edilen bulgulara göre ortaöğretim öğrencilerinin okul yaşam kalitesi, okula yabancılaşma ve okullarda sosyal adalet algıları orta düzeydedir. Okul yaşam kalitesi ve okullarda yabancılaşma arasında orta düzeyde ve negatif yönlü anlamlı bir ilişki varken, okul yaşam kalitesi ve okullarda sosyal adalet arasında orta düzeyde ve pozitif yönlü, anlamlı bir ilişki vardır. Okullarda sosyal adalet algısı ile okula yabancılaşma arasında ise düşük düzeyde, negatif yönlü ve anlamlı bir ilişki vardır. Okul yaşam kalitesi ve okula yabancılaşma ortaöğretim öğrencilerinin sosyal adalet algısı üzerinde anlamlı bir yordama gücüne sahiptir. Bu bulgulara bağlı olarak ortaöğretim kademesinde okul yaşam kalitesini artıracak, yabancılaşma algısını azaltacak ve sosyal adalet düzeyini yükseltecek çeşitli pedagojik uygulamaların gerçekleştirilmesinin öğrencilere olumlu yansıyacağı düşünülmektedir.
Otomotiv sektöründe nesnelerin interneti ve makine öğrenmesine dayalı bir yaklaşımla ısı transfer değerinin tahmini
Authors: Nalkıran Makbule , Altuntaş Serkan
Published: November 2024

Enerji tüketiminin hâkim olduğu hızla gelişen dünyada, yapay zekâ çözümleri ile tüketilecek enerjinin tahmini çalışmaları tüketiciler için hem enerji verimliliği hem de maliyet etkinliği için bir zorunluluk haline gelmiştir. Binalarda ya da tesislerde harcanan ısı enerjisi ise bu tüketimin önemli bir kısmını oluşturmaktadır. Bu çalışmada nesnelerin interneti ve makine öğrenmesine dayalı bir yaklaşımla otomotiv sektöründe faaliyet gösteren bir fabrika binası için ısı transfer değerleri tahmin edilmiştir. Çalışmada, IoT yazılımı ve makine öğrenimi modellerinin bir kombinasyonu kullanılarak gerçek bir endüstriyel sisteme uygulanmıştır. Hem gerçek bir endüstriyel sistem üzerinde çalışan hem de iki farklı endüstri 4.0 konusu bütünleşmiş bir şekilde kullanılması çalışmanın özgün yanıdır. Bu çalışmanın önemi, birçok binaya ve tek bir ısıtma merkezine sahip işletme ya da tesislerde ısıtma merkezinden binalara gönderilecek ısının önceden tahmin etmektir. Bu çalışmada, otomotiv endüstrisindeki bir fabrikanın seçilen pilot tesisi için gerekli olan ısıyı tahmin etmek amacıyla mevcut sıcaklık verilerinden yeni değişkenler üreterek genişletilmiş veri seti ile makine öğrenmesi tabanlı regresyon modelleri geliştirilmiştir. Geliştirilen model ile sıcaklık regülasyonu (hedef sıcaklığa ulaşmak ve sürdürmek) yapılarak, tesisin ısıtma sürecindeki ısı kayıpları, dış ortam koşullarındaki değişiklikler, ortamın aşırı ısınması ya da soğuması, gönderilen ısının bir süre sonra etkisinin kaybetmesi gibi birçok olumsuz faktörün etkisi ve ısı kayıpları önlenerek maliyetler azaltılmıştır. Lineer Regresyon, Rastgele Orman Regresyon, Polinom Regresyon, Karar Ağacı Regresyon, Destek Vektör Regresyon, Ekstra Ağaç Regresyon, Adaboost Regresyon, Gradient Boosting Regresyon, Oylama Regresyon ve Yapay Sinir Ağı algoritmaları kullanılarak üretim tesislerinde ıs tahmininin yapılmıştır. Bu algoritmalar arasında en yüksek tahminleme gücüne sahip olan Doğrusal Regresyon modeli, çalışmanın bir sonraki adımı olan fabrikanın canlı ısıtma sistemi olan SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) sistemine entegre edilmiş ve gerçek zamanlı olarak test edilmiştir. Çalışmanın sonuçları, önerilen yaklaşımın ısıtma sisteminden kaynaklanan maliyetleri indirdiği ve çalışan memnuniyetini arttırdığı tespit edilmiştir.
Tryptophan-13C11 Supplementation and its Effects on Cannibalism, Growth and Survival of Ompokbimaculatus Post-larvae
Authors: Anamika Debnath , Suparna Deb , Pradyut Biswas
Published: November 2024

This study examined how Tryptophan-13C11 supplementation to the diet of Ompokbimaculatus post larvae affects cannibalism, survival, and growth. • Experiment: Post larvae were fed diets with varying Tryptophan-13C11levels (0%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 4%) for 30 days. • Stocking density: 10 days old post-larvae were stocked @ 10 post-larval-1 • Experimental period: 30 days Findings: • Tryptophan-13C11 increased serotonin levels in the fish and slightly decreased growth rate. • Survival rates were higher in groups fed Tryptophan-13C11diets. Conclusion: Dietary Tryptophan-13C11 can be a useful tool to improve survival rate in O. bimaculatus post larvae rearing. However, it may slightly impact growth rates.
Giving It Our All? Demandingness in the Pivotal Generation
Authors: Cripps Elizabeth
Published: November 2024

Henry Shue makes a powerful case for the ‘active many’ within the current generation to act urgently and ‘robustly’ on climate change. This is because the climate burdens born by future generations – heavy enough in any case – will be heavier still if we don’t; the threats are potentially unlimited; and harms could escalate, creating a ‘Hothouse Earth’. He also argues that this generation is uniquely positioned in having the last chance to avoid disaster, and that this reinforces the moral demands on us. This paper contends that, rather than Shue’s ‘active many’ and ‘ruthless few’, current generations are composed of a ruthless few, an apathetic many, and an active few. His important book leaves unresolved how much can be expected of members of the third group, in the face of obstruction by the first and inaction by the second. Must they devote their entire lives to pursuing collective climate action, setting all else aside, because they are members of the last generation who can avoid catastrophe? Shue’s arguments, I suggest, imply a very demanding individual duty to promote collective action on climate change, but leave it open whether there is an extremely or super-extremely demanding one.
The Changing Role of the Architect from Craftsmanship to Artificial Intelligence Environment in Historical Context
Authors: Taş Aslı , Özkan Üstün Gizem , Cengizoğlu Fulya Pelin
Published: November 2024

Architects differentiated themselves from master builders, craftsmen, and engineers, acquiring a distinct identity, social status, and position with modernity. The observation of this study indicates the presence of signs that a similar radical change is beginning to emerge. The knowledge and skills that contemporary architects need to possess are diverging with the incorporation of systems such as artificial intelligence, metaverse, blockchain, machine learning, and digital twins into the process, thereby transforming the ways architects design and represent. In this context, the study attempts to identify changes in the architect's identity through the evolving role of the architect in the historical process. It concludes that the role of the architect throughout the historical process is not stable but subject to continuous and dynamic change.
Factors Determining the Impact of Medical Tourism on Sustainable Development Goals: Evidence from Multiple Medical Tourism Stakeholders
Authors: Çapar Haşim , İnan Kübra
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study is to reveal the factors that determine the impact of medical tourism on sustainable development goals (SDGs). This study was conducted in descriptive cross-sectional type with 1057 medical tourism stakeholders from five continents between July 2023 and February 2024. Data were collected with an online survey. To determine the determinants, t test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation and Multi Logistic Regression analysis were performed. Odds ratios between “Yes” and “No Idea”, efficiency and sustainability (OR=1.101), policy (OR=0.975), ethics (OR=1.035), infrastructure (OR=1.917), and caring (OR=1.045) were found to be significant. Looking at the odds ratios between “No” and “No Idea”, efficiency and sustainability (OR=1.063), policy (OR=1.022), ethics (OR=1.024), infrastructure (OR=1.081), and caring (OR=1.048) were found to be significant. The roles and participation levels of stakeholders in medical tourism have been revealed as determinants of the impact of medical tourism on SDGs.
Türkiye’de Gelir Dağılımının Yapısal Kırılmalar Altında Belirleyicileri: Genişletilmiş Kuznets Eğrisi Hipotezi Geçerli mi?
Authors: Yeter Fatih , Demirgil Bünyamin
Published: November 2024

Çalışmada Türkiye’de gelir dağılımı eşitsizliğinin makro iktisadi belirleyicilerinin uzun dönemli dinamiklerini araştırılmaktadır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda çalışma Kuznets eğrisi hipotezindeki gelir dağılımı ve büyüme arasındaki doğrusal olmayan ilişkinin kamu harcamaları ve enflasyon ile genişletilmiş versiyonundan kanıtlar sunmaktadır. Çalışmada bulgular Fourier fonksiyonlarına ve kalıntılar ile genişletilmiş Yılancı vd. (2023) tarafından önerilen RALS-Fourier-ADL eş bütünleşme testi ve Dinamik En Küçük Kareler yöntemi kullanılarak elde edilmiştir. Sonuçlar, Türkiye’de Kuznets hipotezinin geçerli olduğunu, genişletici maliye politikasının gelir eşitsizliğini azaltıcı olduğunu, enflasyonla ise ilişki olmadığını göstermektedir. Politika yapıcıların refah artıcı politikaları tersine dönen gelir eşitsizliğini artırmasına karşılık, kamu politika tercihleri alt ve orta gelir düzeyindeki hane halklarına yöneltmesinin eşitsizliği azaltabileceği düşünülmektedir. Politika yapıcılar gelir dağılımı eşitsizliğine karşı maliye politikasını daha aktif bir şekilde kullanabilir.
THE INDIVIDUALIZATION OF TEACHING: A CONSTRUCTIVISM PERSPECTIVE v1
Authors: Santos Sebastião
Published: November 2024

TeachingSwimming can benefit from a constructivist perspective on learning. The aim ofthe study was to verify the evolution of a student's water readiness in privatelessons in a set of eight sessions. Methodology A 6 year old student. Program of 8 sessions in a 10mx5mx1.5m pool. Beforestarting the swimming teaching process, the domain they had (diagnosticevaluation) was verified. The sessions unfolded as the student solved andassimilated the tasks. The teacher took the material necessary for the variouspossible tasks, and that it was necessary to present to the student, whofollowed a certain path. Results and discussion After the 8 sessions the final evaluation was carried out, we verified a significantevolution from the first moment to the final moment. The student was able torespond to the stimuli motivated and noting that there is not a single correctanswer for the presented task. Conclusion Conceptual understanding as a knowledge base from which users can interpret and make senseof the technical education provided by their teacher and enable them to developas more independent students.
Imaging Complex Structures of the Los Angeles Basin via Adjoint-State Travel-Time Tomography
Authors: Wang Dan , Hao Shijie , Chen Jing , Song Guojie , Tong Ping
Published: November 2024

In this study, we present high-resolution seismic velocity models for the Los Angeles basin (LAB) and its adjacent area using adjoint-state travel-time tomography, fitting an extensive database of P- and S-wave travel times accumulated from 1980 to 2021. We select 151,193 first P-wave travel times and 149,997 first S-wave travel times from local earthquakes archived in the Southern California Earthquake Data Center to determine the velocity models, with earthquake locations updated at each iteration. With seismic stations spaced more than 3.5 km apart, our dataset has limited resolution in the uppermost 1–2 km. However, starting from three different initial models, our VP models, which are optimally imaged between 3 and 15 km, show similar velocity heterogeneity and provide a better fit to the observed first travel-time data compared to the Community Velocity Model-Harvard 15.1.0 and Community Velocity Model-Southern California Earthquake Center 4.26. Our models provide a detailed delineation of the subsurface structure beneath the LAB, revealing significant velocity variations across active faults, a 10-km-thick sequence of sedimentary rocks within the basin, and a distinct basin margin marked by transitions from low to high-velocities. In addition, these models highlight basement structures with elevated VP and VS located at depths of 9 to 12 km and beyond. Specifically, beneath the northeastern part of the basin, the models demonstrate improved accuracy and reliability in reflecting the linear relationship between VP and VS in mafic rocks. The accurate delineation of the basin’s structure provided by our models could also offer robust constraints for seismic response modeling and seismic hazard assessment in the region.
Reverse drilling v/s Conventional drilling: Expounding the concept of osseodensification - A narrative review
Authors: Perween Naila , Sachdeva Shabina , Kapoor Pranav
Published: November 2024

Achieving optimal primary stability during surgical implant placement is essential for successful implant rehabilitation. Several factors, both biomechanical and clinical, influence implant stability. Among these factors, the quality of the surrounding bone and the surgical technique employed play significant roles.

. In order to maintain sufficient bulk and density to achieve the desired bone to implant contact, several surgical techniques have been proposed in such low quality bone. One such innovative technique gaining attention is Osseodensification, which is a non-subtractive drilling technique that utilizes specially designed drills in a counterclockwise direction. This technique is designed to preserve bone integrity while inducing controlled plastic deformation of the surrounding bone. Additionally, Osseodensification facilitates compaction autografting, wherein bone particles are compacted within the osteotomy site, further enhancing primary stability. This review aims to provide insights into the array of techniques available for improving primary stability in low-density bone, with emphasis on the novel Osseodensification procedure.
Artificial intelligence applications in dental implantology: A narrative review
Authors: Benakatti Veena , Nayakar Ramesh P , Patil Suvidha
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has a substantial impact on various domains of society, including its significant role in revolutionizing dental care. These technological innovations have transformed dental treatment, expediting efficiency and innovation in the field. This review focuses on the substantial advancements in AI-based research in dental implantology, exploring the various applications of AI to enhance dental implant care. Comprehensive data from databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, was thoroughly scrutinized and presented. AI has significantly impacted healthcare and dental implantology by enhancing efficiency, diagnosis, and clinical decision-making. In dental implantology, AI plays a crucial role in several aspects, such as implant identification, implant planning, prediction, and peri-implantitis management. AI models, including machine learning and deep learning, have been applied to identify implant brands accurately, outperforming dental professionals in some cases. Implant planning has been streamlined using AI to evaluate bone dimensions and locate critical anatomical landmarks. Using patient data and radiographic features, AI-driven prediction models proved as powerful tools for predicting implant success and peri-implantitis risk. Additionally, AI helps in the early recognition of complications like fractured implants and bio-tribocorrosion.
A comparative evaluation of retention capacity of different dental implant supported overdenture attachment systems- An in vitro study
Authors: Shamim Saimah , Joshi Mridula , Mishra Mangal , Bedia Sumit , Ghadage Mahesh , Shetty Uttam
Published: November 2024

The most common way to treat full edentulism is with a complete denture. In the mandible as opposed to the maxilla, there is greater worry over the durability and retention of a traditional complete denture. The mandibular arch's decreased surface area for support and retention is the main cause of this. For a fully edentulous mandible, implant-supported overdentures are a reliable course of treatment.

This in-vitro study aimed at comparing the retentive capacity of Ball, Locator and OT Equator Implant supported overdenture attachment system when subjected to 14600 cycles of insertion and de-insertion.

Fifteen mandibular dentures were fabricated with heat polymerized polymethyl methacrylate resin to test the retentive capacity of Ball, Locator and OT Equator attachment system. Metal housing with retentive nylon caps were picked up in all the sample using cold cure acrylic resin. The samples were subjected to fatigue testing and only monodirectional force was applied. Ball, Locator and OT Equator attachment system sample were subjected to 14,600 insertion/ de insertion cycle on Universal Testing Machine and data was recorded and statistical analysis was done.

All the three groups showed significant differences.

The retentive capacity of the Ball attachments lasts longer than that of the Locator and Equator attachments. After ten years of use, All three systems continue to have clinically acceptable retention.
F 3.10 ¿pueden los hogares de América Latina y del Caribe pagar por su agua?: la asequibilidad a examen
Authors: Pérez Urdiales María , Martinez-Espiñeira Roberto
Published: November 2024

La asequibilidad es una de las dimensiones clave consideradas en la meta 6.1 de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS): “de aquí a 2030, lograr el acceso universal y equitativo al agua potable a un precio asequible para todos”. Sin embargo, el indicador asociado a esta meta solamente mide la proporción de la población que tiene acceso a una fuente de agua gestionada de manera segura, ignorando la perspectiva de la asequibilidad. En consecuencia, la información sobre asequibilidad del agua es relativamente limitada en América Latina y el Caribe (ALC). Esta hoja informativa incluye una síntesis con los resultados principales del estudio "Water Affordability measures under multiple and non-exclusive sources in Latin America and the Caribbean" y plantea una serie de recomendaciones de política pública.
Brechas de género en las industrias culturales y creativas
Authors: Saravia Eduardo , Cifuentes Greis
Published: November 2024

Este estudio hace un análisis de las condiciones actuales de las mujeres y las desigualdades en el mercado laboral de las industrias culturales y creativas en Argentina, Colombia, México y Perú brindando recomendaciones para transformar positivamente el panorama de la economía creativa en la región.
Politics of HIV Vaccine Research from International to Global Health
Authors: David Piem
Published: November 2024

Paradoxically, the absence of HIV vaccine has been very structuring for global vaccine logics, and, more broadly, “global health” research. HIV vaccine research has oscillated between optimism and pessimism and has been central to the humanist justification for research in the South. From the attempt by the World Health Organization’s Vaccine Development Unit (VAD) on AIDS to become the centre of an “international” coordination effort to the diplomatic work involved with Thailand’s HIV research, I describe political contexts, and postcolonial power relations connected to HIV vaccine research. I argue that the failure of “international” coordination has paved the way for another politicization of global HIV vaccine research which led to a shift away from inter-state diplomacy to a “stateless” situation where the global vaccine logics contribute to the development of an experimental regime that relies on the capture of public resources and the availability of depoliticized biological subjects for the purposes of private valorization.
Goodbye Sékou : Perdre un esprit engagé dans les politiques de développement et la recherche en santé globale
Authors: Thiongane Oumy
Published: November 2024

Tout en rendant hommage à Sékou, un des collaborateurs importants de Global Vaccine Logics, qui nous a quittés en décembre 2020, nous voulons mettre en exergue la place importante que jouent les assistants de recherche et les jeunes chercheurs africains dans les projets de santé globale. Une partie de la trajectoire de Sékou tout en révélant par-delà les réflexions, les entrelacements entre santé, extraction et engagement, ramène à faire un appel vibrant pour améliorer les conditions de recherche dans les universités africaines et favoriser la décolonisation des conditions de production des connaissances pour frayer le chemin, laisser la place et donner parole et crédit à l’expertise de la jeune génération africaine qui prend la relève.
Leaky Vaccines: A Wicked Problem in Accelerated Vaccine Development
Authors: Graham Janice , Peeters Grietens Koen
Published: November 2024

While no vaccine can provide 100 percent protection, a high standard of regulatory safety, efficacy and quality is essential for public trust and the uptake of vaccines as essential global public health tools. This article addresses a growing concern that suboptimal “leaky” vaccines threaten emergency response to pandemics as well as routine public health programs. Agile regulatory standards now advance earlier approval of vaccines and therapeutics that may have suboptimal effectiveness. The benefit-harm trade- offs that play an enormous role in regulatory assessment and all stages of vaccine development and delivery deserve better public scrutiny, transparency, and accountability. Drawing on the case of the first licensed malaria vaccine, RTS,S Mosquirix™, in light of the rapid approval of COVID-19 vaccines, we consider the socio-technical implications of leaky vaccines in global vaccine logics and suggest possibilities for building legitimacy to inform the next generation of regulatory technology policy.
What Counts as Global Health?
Authors: Macdonald Margaret
Published: November 2024

Safe abortion access is an essential aspect of reproductive justice and key to reducing global rates of maternal mortality, yet within the global heath enterprise, the rhetoric of sexual and reproductive health and rights has not yet been realised in practice.  Access to safe legal abortion remains inequitable globally and within nations and deaths due to unsafe abortion take their highest toll in the Global South in jurisdictions with restrictive laws.  Clandestine abortion access activist networks have been filling this gap offering life, dignity and futures to the people who seek their services. What should we make of clandestine activist networks around the world that help people access medication abortion? Such groups have been important players in women’s reproductive health in many jurisdictions for decades – but have typically, by necessity and design, flown under the radar. If visibility, accountability and humanitarian appeal are essential characteristic of global health work, how do we acknowledge and understand the work of clandestine abortion access activist networks? Does it count as global health? In this essay I offer the notion of ‘critique in action’ to further our understanding of such networks and also consider the idea of abortion access activist networks as an anti-regime of global health.
Political Factors of Expansion and Stabilization of Imᾱmῑ Shiism in Mazandaran
Authors: Jafari Seyed Sajad , Alizadeh Kafshgari Reza , Mahjouri Karmozdi Mehdi
Published: November 2024

The emergence of Shiism in the east of the Islamic caliphate occurred in the first centuries with the presence of the Shiite Alawites, and the area of the shores of the Caspian Sea was considered one of their main bases. Their actions in this region led to many developments in various fields, which, in addition to Mazandaran, affected large areas of Iran and the Islamic world. Although the expansion of the Shiite school in Mazandaran is the result of several factors, each of which can be discussed in its place - in terms of history and formation, the present research aims to investigate the political factors of the formation of Shiism in Mazandaran. It seeks to answer the question, "What did political factors cause the expansion and stabilization of Imᾱmῑ Shiism in Mazandaran?" The research method is descriptive-analytical, and data collection has been done using library resources. The results show that the formation of local governments such as Bavandians, Mar'ashians, etc., as well as the political relations of scholars and local rulers, such as the actions of Sayed Haider Amoli and Abdur Rahim bin Ma'rouf Rostamdari, are among the factors that play a major role in the expansion and consolidation of Imᾱmῑ Shiism in Mazandaran.
Credit Crunch Detection in Indonesia
Authors: Ninu Angel Evangelist Foni Sopo , Hakim Lukman , Tri Rahayu Siti Aisyah
Published: November 2024

This research analyzes the credit crunch phenomenon in Indonesia using the Simultaneity method. The data taken is time series data on the demand and supply side of credit. The research results show that the credit crunch phenomenon occurs from the demand and supply sides. The factors of credit demand are Credit Interest Rate (CIR) and Inflation. Meanwhile, from the supply side, namely Credit Interest Rate (CIR), Third Parties Fund (TPF), Net Interest Margin (NIM), and Non-Performing Loans (NPL). The results of research using the Two Stage Least Square approach show that, simultaneously, the variables inflation, CIR, NPL, NIM, TPF have an influence on the demand and supply of credit which triggers a credit crunch during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Political Organization in Multicultural Societies Based on Religious Democracy
Authors: Mubalegh Hafizullah
Published: November 2024

Multicultural societies have special conditions that do not reply to any political system. Therefore, a special structure of democracy should be designed to bring security and progress to these societies. The common version of religious democracy based on a majority vote is unsuitable for multicultural societies. Therefore, the mentioned societies need a special version of religious democracy that can provide justice and security in these societies. The question raised here is what political structure is suitable for multicultural societies? Using descriptive and prescriptive methods and based on the main principles and components of religious democracy such as social justice, political pluralism, popular acceptance, sovereignty of religious laws, and its supervision over power, the current research proposes a special structure in four territorials, legislative, administrative and judicial domains for these societies. The results of the research show that the federal system, with its two-pillar administrative structure composed of the president elected by the people and the prime minister elected by the parliament and the proportional distribution of power and benefits at different levels, along with a unicameral structure based on a proportional electoral system in which religious laws prevail, along with a religious supervisory body on the legislative process and judicial structure based on judicial independence in personal status, the use of independent courts, strengthening human rights institutions and the use of accepted laws of human rights and Islamic human rights is the most appropriate structure in multicultural societies.
The Practice of Teaching English to Children with Hearing Impairment in A School for Students with Special Needs in Central Lombok: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Putri Mega Karunia , Amin Muhammad , Lestari Yuni Budi
Published: November 2024

This study explores the practice of teaching English to children with hearing impairment in specialized schools in Central Lombok. Through observations, interviews, and document analysis at SLBN 1 Loteng and SLBN 2 Loteng, key findings regarding the challenges and opportunities for teachers were identified. The study highlights the need for specialized training, resource availability, and parental support to enhance the educational experience for students with hearing impairments.
Myrtle Essential Oil-Loaded Alginate Nanoparticles: A Dual Therapeutic Approach for Cytotoxicity Against Skin Cancer Cells and Antibacterial Effects on Common Pathogens
Authors: Moradi Hamid , Safari Mojdeh , Ranjbar Razieh , Zayed Karrar S. , Osanloo Mahmoud
Published: November 2024

Background & Objectives: The skin, being the body’s largest organ, is not only susceptible to one of the most prevalent forms of cancer but also vulnerable to a myriad of pathogens, including bacteria. Myrtle essential oil (EO) has been shown to possess both anticancer and antimicrobial properties. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of alginate nanoparticles containing myrtle EO on melanoma (A375) and epidermoid carcinoma (A431) cell lines, as well as on some common bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus.
Materials & Methods: Initially, myrtle EO was analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. Subsequently, alginate nanoparticles were prepared via the ionic-gelation method and characterized by dynamic light scattering, Zeta potential, and attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Encapsulation efficacy was then determined using UV-Vis spectrometry. Both cytotoxicity assessment (MTT assay) and evaluation of antibacterial effects (microdilution assays) were conducted using the 96-well plate format.
Results: The major compounds identified in myrtle EO were α-pinene, 1,8-cineole, linalool, linalool acetate, and geranyl acetate. The alginate nanoparticles exhibited a size of 160 ± 9 nm, a SPAN of 0.96, and a Zeta potential of -26 ± 2 mV. The encapsulation efficacy was determined to be 78.4%. It was found that the nanoparticles demonstrated cytotoxicity against A375 and A431 cells with IC50 values of 211 μg/mL and 308 μg/mL, respectively. The most potent antibacterial effect was observed against S. aureus (IC50: 266 μg/mL).
Conclusion: The alginate nanoparticles containing myrtle EO, which exhibited notable cytotoxicity against melanoma and epidermoid carcinoma cells as well as potent antibacterial effects, show promise for further investigation in vivo studies.
Ultra-sensitive Two-dimensional Photonic Crystal Biosensor for Oral Cancerous Cell Detection
Authors: Ghaforyan Hossein
Published: November 2024

Background & Objectives: Over the past two decades, biophotonic sensors based on two-dimensional (2D) photonic crystals (PhCs) have garnered significant attention in cancer diagnosis. This technology has become a crucial tool in early cancer detection and treatment response monitoring due to its ability to detect minute changes in biomarker concentrations and molecular interactions. The development of these sensors through advanced nano and microfabrication techniques has significantly improved diagnostic accuracy and speed, promising substantial enhancements in therapeutic outcomes for cancer patients.
Materials & Methods: A biosensor based on a 2D PhC was designed and simulated for the detection of oral cancer cells in a sample. The biosensor, structured with silicon rods in air using the Finite-Difference Time-Domain tool, utilizes five rods as an analyte for detecting normal and cancerous cells, thereby evaluating the sensor’s performance.
Results: The variation in the transmission spectrum was studied to detect the presence of malignant cells in the test sample. The sensor’s structural parameters were carefully adjusted to enhance its sensitivity, a crucial factor in the accurate detection of cancerous cells. Two critical parameters, Q-factor and sensitivity, were derived from the results. The sensor achieved a sensitivity of 1148 nm/RIU with a Q-factor of 193.
Conclusion: The designed biosensor demonstrates superior accuracy and sensitivity in identifying both malignant and normal cells in the test sample, making it suitable for real- time deployment in point-of-care applications.
Biocompatibility Analysis of Mouse Spleen-Derived Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Ghabool Yasin , Reghbati Mahshid , Mahdavi-Shahri Nasser , Tavassoli Amin
Published: November 2024

Background & Objectives: This study aimed to construct a decellularized mouse spleen scaffold and evaluate its cellular compatibility in vitro using murine bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs).
Materials & Methods: A combination of physical, chemical, and enzymatic treatments was employed for mouse spleen decellularization. These included multiple freeze- thaw cycles, the ionic detergent sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and enzymatic trypsin. Histological and scanning electron microscopy analyses were conducted up to 7 days post-culture to assess the impact of decellularization and cellular adaptation to the spleen scaffolds.
Results: Histological studies revealed the attachment and penetration of BM-MSCs into the scaffolds on days 5-7 following cell seeding. Furthermore, cell migration into the scaffold was observed 5 days after the seeding process.
Conclusion: The decellularization approach utilized in this study proved to be effective and biocompatible, supporting the preservation and proliferation of BM-MSCs. These findings indicate its potential for spleen tissue engineering applications.
Cytotoxicity of Ethanolic and Methanolic Extracts of Medicago sativa L. (Alfalfa) on K562 Myeloid Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Raeeszadeh Mahdieh , Afshari Afsoon , Kazemiafshar Samaneh , Kazemiafshar Hajar , Amiri Ali Akbar
Published: November 2024

Background & Objectives: For centuries, the alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) plant has been recognized for its versatile and active role in treating various diseases. Not only has it been utilized as a therapeutic agent, but it has also been served as a dietary component for both animals and humans. Given the distinctive attributes of this plant in ethnopharmacology, this study aimed to investigate the effects of ethanolic and methanolic extracts of M. sativa L. on the K562 myeloid cell line under in vitro conditions.
Materials & Methods: The phytochemical composition of M. sativa L. was determined through Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay, wherein K562 cells were subjected to varying concentrations (50–100 μg/mL) of methanolic and ethanolic extracts over 24, 48, and 72- hour intervals to determine the IC50. Subsequently, the most promising IC50 result was employed in flow cytometry (Flow Jo Software) analysis.
Results: Active constituents identified included phytol, phenol, linolenic acid, and glycine. Statistical analysis revealed a time-dependent but not dose-dependent effect. It was noteworthy that the IC50 for the methanolic extract after 72 hours was 9.45 μg/mL, whereas it was 19.3 μg/mL for the ethanolic extract. Flow cytometry analysis indicated that the methanolic extract caused 49.16% and the ethanolic extract caused 15.42% of cell death.
Conclusion: The results demonstrated that the ethanolic extract of alfalfa is more effective than the methanolic extract on the K562 cell line. Therefore, M. sativa L. potential application in myeloid cancer therapy can be investigated in more details
The Influence of Destination Branding and the TikTok Platform on Purchase Decisions at DEWI Pandawa, Ponokawan Village, Krian, Sidoarjo
Authors: Zulkarnain Bunga , Augustinah Fedianty , Listyawati Liling
Published: November 2024

This research analyzes the impact of destination branding and the use of TikTok on tourists' purchasing decisions at the tourist destination (Dewi Pandawa) Ponokawan, Krian, Sidoarjo. With a quantitative approach, data was collected from 100 respondents aged 15-40 who are active on TikTok. The results show that effective branding strengthens the emotional connection and purchasing decisions of tourists. TikTok plays a role in attracting a wider audience with engaging content, increasing awareness and interest in destinations. Analysis with SPSS ensures there is no multicollinearity and heteroscedasticity, confirming the validity of the regression model. Branding and TikTok have proven to be important factors in influencing consumer behavior in the tourism sector, providing insights to enhance marketing through quality content and consistent branding. This research also identifies the need for quality content and the risk of dependency on a single social media platform.
Quantification and evaluation of plasma free amino acid concentrations by LC-MS/MS after total gastrectomy
Authors: Akman Tuğrul Çağrı , Kadıoğlu Yücel , Bayrak Burak , Yıldırgan Mehmet İlhan , Dişçi Esra
Published: November 2024

The effect of total gastrectomy (TG) on plasma free amino acid (PFAA) concentrations in patients with stage II gastric cancer was investigated in the study. Nineteen patients' plasma samples were collected before and three months post-gastrectomy, and PFAA levels were quantified using LC-MS/MS. For gradient elution of amino acids, the mobile phases (A: 3% formic acid-5% methanol-30 mM ammonium formate, B: acetonitrile) and a Hypersil C18 column (100 mm x 2.1 m, 1.9 µm) were used. The findings revealed substantial modifications in the profile of PFAA after TG. In particular, the concentrations of twenty amino acids increased significantly, including branched-chain amino acids, L-glutamate, L-alanine, L-methionine, glycine, L-cystine, and L-histidine. Conversely, L-arginine was also reduced statistically. These alterations in the PFAA profile indicate the favorable effects of TG on various physiological processes, such as enhanced immune function, improved tissue healing, and increased energy production. Investigating the effects of various surgical techniques on PFAA profiles is a promising approach for optimizing surgical procedures, improving metabolic function, increasing immunological responses, and improving overall quality of life. These findings highlight the significance of evaluating amino acid metabolism as an important part of treatment, given its potential to improve clinical outcomes and general well-being.
Transformacja w coachingu
Authors: Chmielecka Monika
Published: November 2024

Autorka traktuje coaching jako jedną z metod edukacji dorosłych i osadza swój wywód teoretyczny na andragogicznych koncepcjach uczenia się. Zaprezentowane badania sytuuje w kontekście teorii transformatywnego uczenia się Jacka Mezirowa. Czytelnik otrzymuje ponadto opis własnych badań empirycznych autorki, przeprowadzonych metodą studium przypadku. Na podstawie wywiadów z trzynastoma osobami poddanymi procesowi coachingu dowiaduje się: jak przebiegał proces uczenia się, jakie były jego konteksty, jakich zmian doświadczyli uczestnicy, a także jakie znaczenie miała osoba coacha. Autorka formułuje też praktyczne wskazówki dla coachów w zakresie warunków ułatwiających proces uczenia się w coachingu.