bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outputs from a model of co-research with older care-experienced people in Sweden to advance eldercare services
Authors: Wallcook Sarah , Dohrn Ing-Mari , Dahlkvist Ulla , Domeij Yvonne , Green Kerstin , Isaksson Gigi , Goliath Ida
Published: November 2024

Background

Within the contemporary policy turn towards co-production and co-research in Sweden, older people, practitioners and researchers alike have expressed uncertainty about how to undertake co-research. Moreover, scepticism persists about the merits and contributions of co-research and co-production to research and service development. In this paper, we aim to describe a co-research model developed with older care-experienced lay co-researchers and explore the utility of our model’s outcomes to social care research and practice.

Method

In a Participatory Action Research project, we established a team of three co-researchers by professional experience and eight lay co-researchers by lived experience who were over age 75. Our team undertook a complete study cycle from inception and funding through to knowledge exchange and dissemination. Our process lasted one year and comprised three phases: the group alone establishing collective knowledge, testing knowledge in peer interviews with acquaintances, exchanging knowledge in events with multi-sector actors. We generated and analysed data concurrently in fortnightly workshops and round-table meetings using procedures inspired by framework analysis to produce themes illustrated by vignettes.

Findings

We highlight our co-research model’s utility to social research, policy and practice under three themes. Expressly, how our approach (1) reaches and engages older people who are isolated at home, (2) generates out-of-the box thinking and innovative solutions for service development and research, (3) recognizes and benefits from older people’s authentic experience and knowledge. We critically reflect upon these three themes and the conditions that lead towards or away from the adoption of key co-research principles.

Conclusions

Public services and research and development units working in the interests of older people can take inspiration from our co-research model when seeking to meet the challenges brought by new reforms towards closer community involvement. Despite messiness in the process, integrating and embedding principled co-research and co-production can bring clarity and structure to the issues that matter most to older people, and draw organisations closer to the communities they serve.
Relevance of optic nerve B-mode sonography in multiple sclerosis diagnosis and follow-up
Authors: Orabi Marwa , Abou Hagar Ahmed , Ashour Yossri , Al-shatouri Mohammad , Ahmed Samar , Abd El-Razek Reda
Published: November 2024

Background

Among young people, multiple sclerosis (MS) accounts for the majority of non-traumatic neurological impairments. Almost all MS patients develop optic neuritis as the illness progresses. In MS, the optic nerve (ON) is vulnerable to demyelinating injury and is considered “eloquent” in comparison with the brain. Thus, it serves as a clinical model for MS. Since the eye is a suitable target for ultrasonography due to its high-water content, non-invasive trans-orbital sonography (TOS) can determine the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD). This research aimed to determine the effectiveness of ON ultrasonography as a simple, low-cost method for diagnosing and following up MS patients, facilitating their treatment plan. It correlates the findings of ONSD using TOS and visual-evoked potential (VEP), the number of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) black holes, and other clinically significant parameters in 30 relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) patients versus 30 controls.

Results

We examined a total of 120 eyes. The ONSD values at 3 mm, 5 mm, and myelination index were significantly lower in the patients (4.7 ± 0.3, 5.5 ± 0.3, and 0.86 ± 0.03, respectively) versus the controls (5.6 ± 0.3, 6.2 ± 0.4, and 0.90 ± 0.03, respectively) (p < 0.001 in each). The mean P 100 latency was significantly delayed in the patients (125.5 ± 6.1 ms) than the controls (100.2 ± 3.3 ms), (p < 0.001). The mean VEP amplitude was significantly lower in the patients (4.9 ± 0.7 μV) than the controls (6.8 ± 0.8 μV) (p < 0.001). There was a highly significant positive correlation between the ONSD and P 100 amplitude, and highly significant negative correlations between the ONSD and disease duration, number of optic neuritis attacks, EDSS, MRI black holes number, and P 100 latency.

Conclusions

Trans-orbital sonography is a practical and easily accessible approach for assessing ON atrophy in MS. It can measure axonal loss and brain atrophy indirectly and is a reliable paraclinical diagnostic tool, suggesting that ONSD could be a biomarker of disease activity.
Predictive biomarkers in endometrial carcinomas: a review of their relevance in daily anatomic pathology
Authors: Nagel Janaína , Paschoalini Rafael Bispo , Barreto Patrícia Sodré Dias , Credidio Caroline Haydn , Paulino Eduardo , Del Pilar Estevez-Diz Maria
Published: November 2024

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is the most common gynecologic malignancy in high-income countries, with its incidence and mortality rising globally, particularly in countries undergoing rapid socioeconomic transitions. Over the past decade, the management of EC has shifted towards molecular classification and biomarker-driven therapies. This shift began in 2013 with the discovery of the 4 prognostic and molecular EC subgroups by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Following the TCGA discovery, the Proactive Molecular Risk Classifiers for Endometrial Cancer (ProMisE) and the TransPORTEC initiative have provided 4 pragmatic molecular classifiers by combining next-generation sequencing (NGS) and surrogate immunohistochemical markers to TCGA’s categorization: Mismatch Repair Deficient (MMRd); p53-abnormal (p53abn); No Specific Molecular Profile (NSMP); and POLE-mutant (POLEmut). These subgroups not only provide insights into the biological behavior of EC but also have strong clinical relevance and prognostic implications. In line with these advancements, the World Health Organization (WHO) endorsed molecular classification in 2020, advocating for its integration into EC pathology reports. In 2023, the Federation of International Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) proposed a new staging system that integrates histological parameters and molecular profiles into routine pathology practice. The use of complete molecular classification surrogates in all EC cases, whenever resources permit, is intended to promote prognostic risk-group stratification, data collection, Lynch Syndrome (LS) screening, and potentially influence adjuvant and systemic treatment decisions, as well as predict the efficacy of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICI). Consequently, the evolving landscape of predictive biomarkers in EC has gained importance in daily oncology practice, profoundly changing the role of pathologists. Pathologists are now crucial in interpreting molecular information and participating as members of multidisciplinary teams in therapeutic decisions. This review article aims to emphasize the importance of molecular classification in EC and encourage pathologists to become familiar with the use of predictive biomarkers in their daily anatomical pathology practice.
Characteristic spatial and frequency distribution of mutations in SCN1A
Authors: Zhang Mengwen , Guo Jing , Li Bin , Liu Kang , Zhao Jiayuan , Zhang Jiayuan , Lin Xuqing , Tang Bin , Wang Jie , Liao Weiping , He Na
Published: November 2024

Background

SCN1A is the most well-recognized and commonly mutated gene related to epilepsy. This study analyzed the characteristic spatial and frequency distributions of SCN1A mutations, aiming to provide important insight into the mutagenesis etiopathology of SCN1A-associated epilepsy.

Methods

Epilepsy-associated SCN1A variants were retrieved from the SCN1A mutation database, the HGMD database, and literature reviews. The base substitutions, mutation frequencies in CpG dinucleotides, and spatial distributions of mutations in terms of exons and structural domains were analyzed.

Results

A total of 2621 SCN1A variants were identified in 5106 unrelated cases. The most common type was missense mutation, followed by frameshift mutations and splice site mutations. Among the missense mutations, transitions within CpG dinucleotides were much more recurrently identified than transitions within non-CpG dinucleotides, and the most common type was the G > A transition. Among the nonsense mutations, the most predominant type of single-base substitution was the C > T transition, among which 75.3% (235/312) were within CpG sites. The most common “hotspot” codons for missense mutations were codons 101, 946, and 1783; while for nonsense mutations it was codon 712. One-base deletion or insertion was the most common type of frameshift mutation, causing protein truncation. The three most common frameshift mutations were c.5536_5539delAAAC, c.4554dupA, and c.5010_5013delGTTT. Splice mutations were the most frequently identified in exon 4 with a hotspot site c.602 + 1G > A. The spatial distribution of missense mutations showed that exons 22 and 4 had the highest mutation density (111 and 84 mutations per 100 bp, respectively), and exon 12 had the lowest mutation density, with 4 mutations per 100 bp. Further distribution analysis of the protein domains revealed that missense mutations were more common in the pore region and voltage sensor (231 mutations per 100 amino acids, respectively), and the protein truncation mutations were distributed evenly among the domains.

Conclusions

SCN1A mutations tend to cluster at distinct sites, depending on the characteristic CpG dinucleotides, exons, and functional domains. Higher mutation density in particular regions, such as exon 22 and exon 4, offers promising targets for therapeutic genetic interventions.
The contribution of tropical long-term studies to mycology
Authors: Stallman Jeffery K. , Haelewaters Danny , Koch Bach Rachel A. , Brann Mia , Fatemi Samira , Gomez-Zapata Paula , Husbands Dillon R. , Jumbam Blaise , Kaishian Patricia J. , Moffitt Ariana , Catherine Aime M.
Published: November 2024

Fungi are arguably the most diverse eukaryotic kingdom of organisms in terms of number of estimated species, trophic and life history strategies, and their functions in ecosystems. However, our knowledge of fungi is limited due to a distributional bias; the vast majority of available data on fungi have been compiled from non-tropical regions. Far less is known about fungi from tropical regions, with the bulk of these data being temporally limited surveys for fungal species diversity. Long-term studies (LTS), or repeated sampling from the same region over extended periods, are necessary to fully capture the extent of species diversity in a region, but LTS of fungi from tropical regions are almost non-existent. In this paper, we discuss the contributions of LTS of fungi in tropical regions to alpha diversity, ecological and functional diversity, biogeography, hypothesis testing, and conservation—with an emphasis on an ongoing tropical LTS in the Pakaraima Mountains of Guyana. We show how these contributions refine our understanding of Fungi. We also show that public data repositories such as NCBI, IUCN, and iNaturalist contain less information on tropical fungi compared to non-tropical fungi, and that these discrepancies are more pronounced in fungi than in plants and animals.
Analyzing students’ systems thinking in-situ through screencasts in the context of computational modeling: a case study
Authors: Bowers Jonathan , Eidin Emil
Published: November 2024

In our interconnected world, Systems Thinking (ST) is increasingly being recognized as a key learning goal for science education to help students make sense of complex phenomena. To support students in mastering ST, educators are advocating for using computational modeling programs. However, studies suggest that students often have challenges with using ST in the context of computational modeling. While previous studies have suggested that students have challenges modeling change over time through collector and flow structures and representing iterative processes through feedback loops, most of these studies investigated student ST through pre and post tests or through interviews. As such there is a gap in the literature regarding how student ST approaches develop and change throughout a computational modeling unit. In this case study, we aimed to determine which aspects of ST students found challenging during a computational modeling unit, how their approaches to ST changed over time, and how the learning environment was supporting students with ST. Building on prior frameworks, we developed a seven-category analysis tool that enabled us to use a mixture of student discourse, writing, and screen actions to categorize seven ST behaviors in real time. Through using this semi-quantitative tool and subsequent narrative analysis, we found evidence for all seven behavior categories, but not all categories were equally represented. Meanwhile our results suggest that opportunities for students to engage in discourse with both their peers and their teacher supported them with ST. Overall, this study demonstrates how student discourse and student writing can be important evidence of ST and serve as a potential factor to evaluate ST application as part of students’ learning progression. The case study also provides evidence for the positive impact that the implementation of a social constructivist approach has in the context of constructing computational system models.
Transrectal ultrasound-guided intraprostatic injection therapy for treatment of chronic prostatitis in a Ugandan population
Authors: Kawooya Michael G. , Malumba Richard , Kaakyo Mary , Steven Kasule , Ssebaggala Frank , Dabanja Henry
Published: November 2024

Background

Globally, the clinical understanding of prostatitis has been obscured mainly due non-specificity of clinical features, no uniform diagnostic criteria and its protracted treatment course. Conventional treatment of chronic prostatitis by oral or parenteral routes of drug administration remains a challenge basically because of the poor ability of drugs to penetrate prostate epithelium; the alternative of direct prostate injection has not been thoroughly studied in an African population. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the effect of transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-guided intraprostatic injection of a cocktail of antibiotics, antifungal and long-acting steroids on alleviating symptoms attributed to chronic prostatitis in Ugandan patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of records among patients who were referred with symptoms attributed to chronic prostatitis at the Radiology Department of Ernest Cook Ultrasound Research and Education Institute (ECUREI). Patients were treated using TRUS-guided intraprostatic injection of a cocktail of antibiotics, antifungal agents and long-acting steroids.

Results

At baseline, we found that out of the 131 patients, 90 had pain or burning during urination in the last week to seeking care and 89 had symptoms, which had kept them away from doing the kinds of things they would usually do. Additionally, 85 of the total number of patients felt terrible about their symptoms. Post intervention, after 1 year following completion of intraprostatic injection therapy (IPIT), we found that most patients had mild residual symptoms which were largely; mild pain and burning at urination. None of the patients had symptoms, which kept them away from doing the kind of things they would usually do. Furthermore, 62 patients felt delighted about their quality of life, whereas prior to treatment, none was delighted. Eighty-five patients had felt terrible about their quality of life prior to the IPIT, but post therapy, no patient felt terrible.

Conclusion

Transrectal ultrasound-guided intraprostatic injection therapy of a drug cocktail composed of antibiotics, antifungal agents, long-acting steroids and lidocaine for treatment of patients presenting with symptoms attributed to chronic prostatitis and refractory to conventional oral therapy has shown a good response in this study.
Correlation-based polarity-check algorithm for instrument transformers
Authors: Mahmoud R. A. , Elwakil E. S.
Published: November 2024

A polarity identification is very important for operation of transformers, measurement and protection equipment, where it is useful in analyzing of transformer connections and operation as well as testing of protective systems. Moreover, it’s essential in assessment of power systems performance during both normal and abnormal operation. Ensuring the correct polarity of the primary and secondary windings in voltage and current transformers is of paramount importance for various measurement and protection schemes in power networks. This paper proposes a digital polarity detector and tester using correlation coefficients and nine polarity indices calculated for instrument transformer signals. In order to test the performance of the proposed polarity tester algorithm, MATLAB code is imported to the LABVIEW model, and the numerical data obtained from the synchronous generator terminals via instrument transformers are interfaced with the computer through the Data Acquisition Card (DAC). The experimental system consists of a motor-generator set supplying a three-phase inductive load with instrument transformers connected to measure each phase voltage and current. The obtained results for various operating conditions and different types of abnormal conditions prove that the suggested algorithm is accurate, reliable and applicable to smart grids and substation automation systems. It can be considered as an integrated system incorporated with digital fault recorders, relays and meters.
Investigating whether offshore immigration detention and processing are associated with an increased likelihood of psychological disorders
Authors: Specker Philippa , Liddell Belinda , Bryant Richard , O'Donnell Meaghan , Nickerson Angela
Published: November 2024

Immigration policies designed to deter people from seeking asylum are gaining traction in many Western nations, with the UK recently attempting to establish an offshore immigration processing centre in Rwanda. This letter outlines emerging evidence from Australia on the negative long-term psychological effects of offshore processing on people seeking asylum.
Kidney Hyperfiltration and Mitochondrial Changes Are Associated With eGFR Decline in Young People With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Pham Uyen N , Pryke Alison , Baskerville Tracey , Griffin Alison , Whiddett Rani O , Fotheringham Amelia K , Sullivan Mitchell A , Nisbet Janelle , Phillips Liza , Francis Ross S , Davis Elizabeth , Jones Timothy W , Cameron Fergus , Couper Jennifer , Benitez-Aguirre Paul , Craig Maria , Johnson David W , Dalton R Neil , Marcovecchio M Loredana , Cotterill Andrew , Barrett Helen L , Donaghue Kim C , Forbes Josephine M
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To examine the relationship between kidney hyperfiltration during adolescence and subsequent changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urinary albumin creatinine ratio (UACR) in a young cohort of participants with type 1 diabetes. Additionally, to explore urinary mitochondrial DNA to nuclear DNA ratio (mtDNA:nDNA) as a marker of metabolic stress and its association with early changes in kidney function.

Methods

Eighty adolescents were studied at baseline (mean [SD] age 14.2 [1.5] years; mean diabetes duration 6.7 [3.0] years) and at follow-up 9.2 (1.3) years later. Blood pressure, HbA1c, lipids, eGFR, UACR, and heart rate variability were assessed at each visit. Urinary mtDNA:nDNA was measured by quantitative PCR.

Results

Overall, 4.2% of participants had diabetic kidney disease at follow-up. Hyperfiltration at baseline (>135 mL/min/1.73 m2) was seen in 31% of adolescents and was associated with a decline in eGFR at follow-up when adjusted for sex, diabetes duration, and HbA1c (hyperfiltration −1.46 [3.07] mL/min/1.73 m2/year vs non-hyperfiltration −0.51 [2.48] mL/min/1.73 m2/year, P = .02). Participants with hyperfiltration also had higher odds of undergoing rapid eGFR decline (>3 mL/min/1.73 m2/year) compared to those without hyperfiltration (odds ratio 14.11 [95% CI 2.30-86.60], P = .004). Baseline urinary mtDNA:nDNA was significantly associated with both greater annual rate of eGFR decline and rapid eGFR decline in univariable but not multivariable modeling.

Conclusion

Hyperfiltration during adolescence is significantly associated with greater reduction in eGFR and higher risk of rapid eGFR decline after ∼9 years, following transition into young adulthood in type 1 diabetes. Urinary mtDNA:nDNA measured during adolescence may be a novel predictor of early changes in kidney function.
Remixing Wong Kar-wai
Authors: Biancorosso Giorgio
Published: November 2024

Like his fellow filmmakers Stanley Kubrick, Quentin Tarantino, and Sofia Coppola, Wong Kar-wai crafts the soundtracks of his films by jettisoning original scores in favor of commercial recordings. In Remixing Wong Kar-wai, Giorgio Biancorosso examines the combinatorial practice at the heart of Wong’s cinema to retheorize musical borrowing, appropriation, and repurposing. Wong’s irrepressible penchant for poaching music from other films—whether old Chinese melodramas, Hollywood blockbusters, or European art films—subsumes familiar music under his own brand of cinema. As Wong combs through musical and cinematic archives and splices disparate music together, exceedingly well-known music loses its previous associations and acquires an infinite new constellation of meanings in his films. Drawing on Claude Lévi-Strauss’s concept of bricolage, Biancorosso contends that Wong’s borrowing is akin to a practice of creative destruction in which Wong becomes a bricoleur who remixes music at hand to create new and complete, self-sustaining statements. By outlining Wong’s modus operandi of indiscriminate borrowing and remixing, Biancorosso prompts readers to reconsider the significance of transforming preexisting music into new compositions for film and beyond.
Modulation of SNARE-dependent exocytosis in astrocytes improves neuropathology in Huntington's disease
Authors: King Annesha C. , Payne Emily , Stephens Emily , Fowler Jahmel A. , Wood Tara E. , Rodriguez Efrain , Gray Michelle
Published: November 2024

Huntington's disease (HD) is a fatal, progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Prior studies revealed an increase in extracellular glutamate levels after evoking astrocytic SNARE-dependent exocytosis from cultured primary astrocytes from mutant huntingtin (mHTT)-expressing BACHD mice compared to control astrocytes, suggesting alterations in astrocytic SNARE-dependent exocytosis in HD. We used BACHD and dominant-negative (dn)SNARE mice to decrease SNARE-dependent exocytosis from astrocytes to determine whether reducing SNARE-dependent exocytosis from astrocytes could rescue neuropathological changes in vivo. We observed significant protection against striatal atrophy and no significant rescue of cortical atrophy in BACHD/dnSNARE mice compared to BACHD mice. Amino acid transporters are important for modulating the levels of extracellular neurotransmitters. BACHD mice had no change in GLT1 expression, decreased striatal GAT1 expression and increased levels of GAT3. There was no change in GAT1 after reducing astrocytic SNARE-dependent exocytosis, and increased GAT3 expression in BACHD mice was normalized in BACHD/dnSNARE mice. Thus, modulation of astrocytic SNARE-dependent exocytosis in BACHD mice is protective against striatal atrophy and modulates GABA transporter expression.
Development of flip-chip technology for the optical drive of superconducting circuits
Authors: Kieler Oliver , Tian Hao , Kraus Marco , Priyadarshi Shekhar , Felgner Judith , Fernandez Scarioni Alexander , Kohlmann Johannes , Bieler Mark
Published: November 2024

We discuss the flip-chip mounting process of photodiodes and fiber sleeves on silicon substrates to meet the increasing demand for fabrication of highly integrated and hybrid quantum circuits for operation at cryogenic temperatures. To further increase the yield and success rate of the flip-chip procedure, the size of the gold stud bumps, and flip-chip parameters were optimized. Moreover, to connect optical fibers to the photodiodes in an optimal position, the fiber sleeves were aligned with specially fabricated alignment circles before applying thermocompression with the flip-chip machine. The mounted photodiodes were tested at both room temperature and cryogenic temperature, and we find that mechanical imperfections of the sleeve-ferrule combination limit the overall alignment accuracy. The experimental results show that our flip-chip process is very reliable and promising for various optical and electrical applications and, thus, paves the way for fabrication of hybrid chips, multi-chip modules and chip-on-chip solutions, which are operated at cryogenic temperatures.
MONITORING THE PROCESS OF FORMING STUDENTS’ DIGITAL COMPETENCIES
Authors: Vyalikova Galina , Erofeeva Maria , Plekhanova Maria , Pluzhnikova Yulia
Published: November 2024

Digital transformation in the key areas of social activity that the President and the government of the Russian Federation have determined as the chief development vector of this country reveals direct influence on the Russian higher education system. Its main tasks include the training of future professionals equipped with digital competencies as an indispensable resource of their competitiveness in the modern labour market. All that updates the request for conceptualizing the problem of forming students’ digital competencies from the point of view of educational theory, as well as searching for hands-on tools to improve the quality of the process under research and its results. This topical task of the education theory and practice needs an effective and consistent implementation, based on the rich experience in forming the information and communication competencies of students at different levels of the education system. To improve the efficiency of the process and results of forming digital competencies of students of various majors, we should study the phenomenon in all its versatility, clearly determine its contents and conditions conductive to its formation, define the factors stimulating the productivity of the process under research.
The above-said versatility and volatility of the contents of digital competencies spark the abundance of expert evaluations and definitions that unfortunately leads to the terminological chaos. Taking support in the system-and-activity approach allows for the systematic consideration of the phenomenon under study and its pedagogical characteristics. Moreover, it seems topical to research the procedural aspect of the forming students’ digital competencies where pedagogical monitoring plays a crucial part. This research concentrates on its key features (aim, tasks, functions, and procedures) as well as the conditions for its effective implementation
Modern promising trends in professional training of employees of the penal enforcement system in the context of digitalization of education
Authors: Antonovskiy Aleksandr , Chumanov Yuriy
Published: November 2024

The article examines the current promising trends in the professional training of employees of the penitentiary system. The conducted express review of modern aspects of professional training of employees of the penal enforcement system allows us to identify the following trends: the use of distance learning technologies, along with traditional training, and a competent combined version of their use and "necessary castling" in the textbook of academic disciplines; regular interactive interaction of subjects of the educational process through an electronic information and educational environment; the use of multimedia technologies as additional learning tools in modern education; additional classes with students on digital hygiene in interaction with various information systems and software products; the use of electronic textbooks, audio-visual aids and interactive courses as alternatives to traditional textbooks, teaching aids in printed form; the use of webinars as an effective form of interactive classes with students; the possibility of developing cognitive processes (attention, memory, thinking, etc.) in students through the use of intelligence simulators - on the example of professional training of psychologists of law enforcement agencies; personalized training. The relevance and discussion of relatively new concepts in modern education, psychology and pedagogy, which are designated as "digital engagement" and "digital professionalism", is noted. Today, the digital transformation of scientific and educational activities sets guidelines for the key areas of development of modern Russian education, taking into account the values for both students (students, cadets, employees of the penal correction system) and the state as a whole.
Formation of lexical skills in teaching English at universities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia using lexical games
Authors: Akvit Viktoria , Bashlueva Natalya , Smirnova Lada
Published: November 2024

Professional communication is characterized, first of all, by the presence of a special language, that is, a special vocabulary used by specialists in a particular field of activity when communicating. In this regard, it is necessary to pay special attention to the process of forming lexical skills when teaching English. A common method of working at all stages of the formation of lexical skills is lexical games. The use of lexical games in teaching any foreign language, including English, plays a special role in learning ESP (English for specific purposes). An example of one of these lexical games is the game "Jeopardy", the essence of which is revealed in this study. The purpose of the study is the theoretical substantiation of the process of formation of lexical skills in teaching English in universities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia and the development of exercises aimed at the formation of lexical skills using lexical games. The subject of the study is the peculiarities of the use of lexical games in the formation of lexical skills in English in universities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia. The practical significance of the research consists of materials that can be used in foreign language (English) classes language in higher educational institutions of a legal orientation, including in educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
"Language personality" - idea and role in the modern world
Authors: Annenkova Marina
Published: November 2024

Relevance:
In recent years, the Russian Federation has paid close attention to the official activities of employees of the internal affairs bodies from authorities, public organizations and institutions, and the population. First of all, we are talking about the observance by the employees of the internal affairs bodies of the norms of morality and ethics, rules of conduct in everyday life and speech culture.
State policy determines the main areas of activity of the internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation. Thus, in the decisions of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation it has been repeatedly noted that the successful solution of the tasks facing the internal affairs bodies largely depends on the level of training of the personnel. Fostering high civic, professional, psychological and moral qualities in employees, as well as the formation of a high professional culture, one of the key competencies of which is proficiency in language as a means of communication, strengthening the authority of the internal affairs bodies in society, increasing the prestige of the service are priority goals in the activities of the police and are regulated by the order of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia dated December 25, 2020 No. 900 "Issues of organizing moral and psychological support for the activities of the internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation". Therefore, the problem of general language processes occurring in the internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation at present leads to the need to study the features of communication underlying official activity, and therefore to its creator - the "linguistic personality".
Statement of the problem: The article considers the issues of state support for traditional values ​​in the Russian Federation, the need to protect the norms of the Russian literary language, the role of language in human life.
What are the features of the "linguistic personality"?
One of the important conditions for the formation of a person's pedagogical culture is the study of pedagogical thought that has gone through a centuries-old historical path. The article considers the main and most significant stages in the development of the education system in the world, as well as domestic pedagogy, the founder of which is
K.D. Ushinsky.
Purpose of the study: clarification of the definition of "linguistic personality" based on the presented basic concepts of "linguistic personality" formed in world linguistics.
Research methods: analysis of modern scientific definitions of the concepts of "personality", "linguistic personality", generalization of the results obtained. Results and key findings: the conducted research allowed us to formulate and propose the author's definition of the concept of "linguistic personality", which is proposed to be understood as a bearer of cultural and linguistic values, endowed with will and aspirations, moods and assessments, and also fully using language in business communication, professional activities and in everyday life.
Use of Pilates Training in Back Pain and Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Literature Review
Authors: Ptak Anita , Szyc Michał
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Pilates is a type of physical exercise invented by Joseph Pilates. They aim to have a positive effect on the body and mind. Pilates can be performed with special machines called reformers or without any additional equipment, simply on a mat. The exercises focus on strengthening the deep muscles, including the core, which can help in the treatment of patients with back pain. In addition, they have a positive effect on maintaining correct posture and fluidity of movement. Due to the above characteristics, Pilates can be one of the pillars of therapy for back pain, musculoskeletal pain, including that associated with rheumatological diseases.
Aim of the study: The aim of this publication is to review the available literature to answer the question of whether Pilates training is a suitable intervention in back pain and musculoskeletal disorders and to compare its effects with other interventions (e.g. the Mckenzie Method or extensiona based exercises).
Material and methods: Review of the literature available on PubMed and Google Scholar database searching by the keywords: pilates, pilates and pain, pilates and back pain, pilates and spine, fibromyalgia, pilates and neck pain.
Conclusions: Pilates is a training method that can be implemented in the treatment of many ailments. These exercises have produced very good results in the treatment of back pain, neck pain, muscle and joint pain in the course of rheumatic diseases. Studies indicate that Pilates has a beneficial effect on the rehabilitation process, sometimes exceeding the effects of traditional physiotherapy. In addition to its very good therapeutic effect, Pilates is characterised by a good safety profile. Even the pregnant population can benefit from the exercises. It is likely that both mat and equipment exercises have benefits, but research on this issue is required. Given the promising results, further research should be conducted into the effects of Pilates in various pain conditions.
Tips and tricks for fluidproducing mares
Authors: Scott Camilla J
Published: November 2024

Mares susceptible to persistent mating-induced or infectious endometritis, with delayed uterine clearance and abnormal reproductive anatomy, or mares with failure of cervical relaxation commonly present with excessive intrauterine fluid either pre-or post-breeding. One of the challenges faced with endometritis is accurately diagnosing clinical cases to ensure appropriate and timely therapy is instigated. Treatment includes improving the physical clearance of inflammatory by-products following breeding, eliminating any potential pathogens (mechanical pathway) and modulating the ongoing inflammatory response (immunological pathway). Correction of abnormal perineal conformation is also critical. Key management recommendations include breeding the mare only once during the oestrus period to limit further inflammation, performing uterine lavage and administering ecbolic agents 4–6 hours after insemination and the use of targeted post-breeding treatments. It is vital to have a non-infected, uninflamed uterine environment before the embryo entering the uterus in order to optimise embryonic survival.
Exploring the Relationship Between Language competence and Intercultural Communicative Competence Among English as a Foreign language Learners: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Feng Meina , Abdul Aziz Muhammad Noor Bin , Dalib Syarizan
Published: November 2024

This study explores the relationship between language competence and intercultural communicative competence (ICC) among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners through a mixed-methods approach. A sample of 196 Chinese EFL learners was divided into three proficiency groups (low, intermediate, and high), with data collected through Likert-scale questionnaires and semi-structured interviews involving 16 participants. Quantitative analysis revealed that higher language proficiency is linked to improved overall ICC scores and its specific dimensions. The Kruskal-Wallis H test confirmed significant differences in overall ICC, attitude, and skill across proficiency levels, with attitude showing the strongest effect. Spearman's correlation analysis demonstrated small but significant positive correlations between English proficiency and overall ICC, attitude, and skill. Qualitative findings further enriched the quantitative results, emphasizing the foundational and catalytic role of language competence in enhancing ICC and its dimensions. However, participants acknowledged that language competence alone is insufficient for fully successful intercultural interactions. This study expands Byram’s model by offering detailed insights into the intricate relationship between language competence and various ICC dimensions. The study recommends that to fully cultivate ICC, it is essential to integrate the development of language competence into instructional practices.
Design, Synthesis, In-Silico and Cytotoxic Studies of Indole Derivatives as Potent BCL-2 Inhibitors
Authors: Etnoori Sharada , Barothu Raju , Chilakala Nagendra babu , Veldurthi Shashikala. , Kokku Premalatha
Published: November 2024

Indole-based compounds have emerged as a potentially game-changing category of molecules that specifically target Bcell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) protein, offering an innovative approach to the management of breast cancer. Breast cancer is a major public health concern globally, necessitating continued research into innovative therapeutic approaches. One such strategy involves inhibiting (BCL-2) protein, which is overexpressed in cancer cells and inhibits apoptosis. A series of indole derivatives (b1-b12) were synthesized using indium chloride as a catalyst in a solvent free conditions to investigate their potential to interfere with BCL-2 mediated survival pathways. Additionally, in silico modeling was employed to identify novel BCL-2 inhibitors and made structural alterations to enhance the selectivity and potency of indole compounds. The efficacy of indole derivatives was determined using an in vitro model that utilizes the MCF cell line. The findings obtained demonstrated that the compound b11 possessed a considerable amount of anticancer activity.
Sonochemical Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and its Nanomedicinal Activities Against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Reyes Darwin F.
Published: November 2024

The global rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria due to the overuse of commercial antibiotics poses a significant public health threat. As a result, researchers have been exploring new antibacterial agents and approaches, including the field of nanomedicine. This study aims to produce silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using lactose as a reducing agent through an ultrasound-assisted procedure and evaluate their anti-staphylococcal properties. AgNPs were synthesized using a one-pot ultrasound-assisted method with silver nitrate as the precursor and lactose as the reducing agent while the antibacterial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus using the agar well diffusion method. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited strong antibacterial activity, demonstrating potential as nanomedicine. These findings suggest that AgNPs could be valuable in combating antibiotic resistance and functional in the healthcare industry as an alternative antibacterial agent.
Maxdo and RDF55v are Crucial Molecular Descriptors Governing the Cannabinoid Receptor 1(CB1) Modulator Activity of N, N'-diphenyl Urea Analogs and 1H-Indole-2-carboxamides
Authors: Lone Shabir H. , Begum Shaheen , Khanday Waheed Ahmad
Published: November 2024

CB1 allosteric modulators such as synthetic cannabinoids are promising therapeutic agents. Among the various CB1 receptor modulators, indole-2-carboxamides, and N, N'-diphenyl urea derivatives are continuously explored for their potency and selectivity towards the receptor. In the present computational work, QSAR models were generated using Drug Theoretics and Chemoinformatics (DTC tools) tools to analyze the influence of molecular features of these modulators (one hundred and fourteen compounds) on the activity. A statistically significant three-parameter model (SPMin2_Bhm, maxdO, and minssN) was derived that displayed R2 and Q2 values of 0.66 and 0.62, respectively. SPMin2_Bhm and maxdO negatively correlated with the activity, whereas minssN has a positive connection. A seven-parameter model (maxdO, minsssN, RDF55v, VE3_D, minHBint10, SpMin5_Bhs, and CrippenLogP) was also obtained with R2 and Q2 values of 0.76 and 0.70, respectively. The findings might assist in the design and development of novel CB1 modulators based on the structures of indole-2-carboxamides and N, N'-diphenyl urea
The Kinesthetic Turn: Jessie Redmon Fauset and the Machinery of Dance Modernism
Authors: Henry Zoë L.
Published: November 2024

Abstract: This essay argues that Jessie Redmon Fauset's debut novel, There is Confusion , sets the terms by which Black women would go on to challenge the formidable color line of twentieth-century dance. The 1924 text dramatizes the exercise of feminine performance to arbitrate between competing doctrines of race essentialism by centering on the figure of the aloof, yet laboring ballerina of color. Fauset ultimately presents her heroine's thinking as a kind of body to emphasize the conditions of mental work Black women have been forced to endure, in the modernist period as in our own.
Cellular Self-Making: Octavia E. Butler, "Childfinder," and the Hypno-Psionic Impulse
Authors: Collins Alyssa
Published: November 2024

Abstract: "Cellular Self-Making" connects Octavia E. Butler's first (and last) short story with her early interest and practice of hypnosis. The essay suggests that to understand Butler's narrative endeavors to unsettle conventional representations of the human, one should turn to her archive, which is particularly revealing. "Cellular Self-Making" argues that readers can understand Butler's breakdown of the traditional (and exclusionary) Cartesian subject by attending to her translation of hypnosis into recognizable science fiction concepts like telekinesis and psionics. Presenting Butler's narrative engagements with mind-body connection, "Cellular Self-Making" reveals new readings of humanity and presents new Butlerian methods of survival and self-making for Black women.
On the label-free analysis of white blood cells by holographic quantitative phase imaging flow cytometry
Authors: Giugliano Giusy , Pirone Daniele , Behal Jaromir , Wang Zhe , Cerbone Vincenza , Mugnano Martina , Licitra Fabrizio , Montella Annalaura , Scalia Giulia , Capasso Mario , Iolascon Achille , Mari Silvia , Ferranti Francesca , Bianco Vittorio , Maffettone Pier Luca , Memmolo Pasquale , Miccio Lisa , Ferraro Pietro
Published: November 2024

This study presents an innovative methodology to analyze a blood sample from a healthy donor, providing a quantitative characterization of white blood cells (WBCs). It aims to evaluate the effectiveness of holographic quantitative phase imaging (QPI) flow cytometry (FC) in examining phase-contrast maps at the cellular level, thereby enabling the identification and classification of granulocyte types. Additionally, we demonstrate that an unsupervised method can differentiate granulocyte sub-types, i.e., neutrophils and eosinophils. The results instill strong confidence in the potential future use of QPI FC for liquid biopsies and/or for assessing the heterogeneity of WBCs and, more broadly, to facilitate label-free blood tests.
Bouguer and Lambert’s pioneering contributions to goniophotometric reflectance measurements and models: retrospective
Authors: Simonot Lionel
Published: November 2024

Written independently and published in the same year, 1760, Bouguer’s Traité d’optique and Lambert’s Photométria are the foundations of photometry. We discuss their thoughts and pioneering contributions to the measurement and modeling of light reflected by matte materials, as well as the scattering of sunlight by the Moon and other planets toward Earth. With the law that now bears his name, Lambert introduced an approximation that is still widely used today, thanks to its simplicity. Bouguer presented the first goniophotometric measurements of diffuse reflectance. He developed models representing a rough surface by a set of either small hemispheres for astronomical observations or small randomly oriented facets to describe matte materials. In the latter case, he proposed a graphical representation of the distribution of surface asperities. We look at how Bouguer’s work has been perceived over time, and in particular how it gave rise to the microfacet models developed from the end of the 20th century and widely used in computer graphics. This historical overview highlights the relevance of these two 18th-century scientists’ reflections, which are a source of inspiration for new perspectives in the photometric characterization of matte materials.
High-resolution true-color imaging based on wavelength-multiplexed far-field spatial-frequency shift imaging
Authors: Zeng Linyuan , Tang Mingwei , Zhang Qianwei , Yang Xiaoyu , Liu Xu , Yang Qing
Published: November 2024

As an innovative computational imaging technique proposed in recent years, spatial-frequency shift (SFS) technique shifts the high-frequency components into the passband of the system, thereby successfully overcoming the intrinsic trade-off between resolution and field-of-view (FOV). However, in practical far-field SFS scenarios, the extended propagation distance may lead to the degradation of the coherence and introduce ambient noise. Besides, color information is crucial for revealing subtle details, whereas most of the extant far-field SFS research concentrates on monochromatic recovery. Here, we report a high-resolution (HR) true-color imaging, termed wavelength-multiplexed far-field spatial-frequency shift (WMSFS). We demonstrate that WMSFS yields an enhancement in Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) under high-level noise contamination. The WMSFS approach is also validated experimentally with the USAF 1951 resolution chart and butterfly wings sample. 2.83-fold spatial resolution improvement with accurate representations of color was achieved for the sample over a 1 m distance. Compared with conventional single-wavelength far-field SFS, WMSFS is capable of achieving true-color restoration of objects without compromising the high-resolution capabilities of the system. Further hyperspectral and high-resolution remote imaging might be obtained simultaneously based on this method.