bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental evaluation of the healthy futures of Texas’ puberty curriculum: On My Way
Authors: Schormann Elizabeth , Betori Anthony , Neubauer Leah C.
Published: September 2024

Background

This paper describes a developmental evaluation (DE) of a pilot of a puberty curriculum that was implemented in grades four to six in San Antonio, Texas. The pilot evaluation assessed the initial feasibility and acceptability of curricular components. The DE framework guided the questions in an ever-changing environment where new tools were created as the situation called for them (10).

Methods

The evaluation team utilized purposive sampling methods, surveys, and facilitator notes to guide the collaborative process. Both Google and Microsoft platforms were used for analysis and collection of findings.

Results

Facilitator notes and surveys revealed that while comfortable leading sessions, there were still issues in timing and student comprehension. From a student’s point of view, while many (60%) reported feeling uncomfortable during lessons, a greater majority (80%) reported learning something from the sessions.

Conclusion

DE was a crucial piece of the pilot sessions and revision process despite any limitations. A user-focused and adaptable evaluation generated greater opportunities for positive change within the curriculum and its delivery.
Association between urinary mixture metal levels and olfactory function in coal miners
Authors: Li Yang , Jiao Yuxuan , Hu Rong , Hu Guilin , Shi Ge , Wang Kaidong , Qi Ai , Li Yujing , Li Yonghang , Shen Zhuoheng , Yang Jiafei , Ha Zhiyun , Yang Yaowen , Li Jiangping , Huang Min
Published: September 2024

Background

Exposure to occupational metallic mixtures has a potential impact on olfactory function. However, research evidence is limited on the potential impact of exposure to metallic mixtures and olfactory dysfunction. Furthermore, the coal dust generated contains multiple various metals during coal mining, and no study yet has focus on the olfactory dysfunction of coal miners.

Objectives

In this study, we evaluate the association between urinary metallic mixtures and olfactory function in coal miners, while also exploring the potential applicability of plasma olfactory marker protein (OMP) as a biomarker for assessing olfaction.

Methods

From July to October 2023, coal workers from seven different coal mining enterprises were recruited for the survey when they come for the employee health checkup. Ultimately, 376 participants were met the inclusion criteria and, respectively, determined with the concentrations of urine (16 metals) and plasma (OMP). Meanwhile, applying UPSIT to access their olfactory function. Binary logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) model were used to estimate the association of individual metals with olfactory function. Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) and Quantile g-computation (QG-C) regression were employed to assess the overall association between metal mixtures and olfactory function and identify the major contributing elements.

Results

In a single-metal model, two metals in urine were found to be significantly associated with olfactory function. RCS analysis further revealed that the association between Iron (Fe) and olfactory function was linear, while Lead (Pb) exhibited a non-linear. The BKMR model demonstrated a significant positive association between metal mixture concentration and olfactory function. Combined QG-C regression analysis suggested that metals Cr, Fe, Se, Sb, and Pb could impact the performance of the olfactory test (UPSIT), with Pb being identified as the most influential contributor. The correlation between plasma OMP protein levels and urinary metal concentrations was weak.

Conclusion

Multiple metals are associated with olfactory function in the coal miners. A significant positive association was observed between metal mixture concentrations and olfactory function, with Pb being the most important contributor. In this study, plasma OMP has not been demonstrated to serve as a biomarker for olfactory function.
Geographic inequality in funding by National Institutes of Health negatively impacts almost one-half of the states in the United States
Authors: Caulder Elizabeth , Zhang Jiajia , Nagarkatti Mitzi , Nagarkatti Prakash
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is the primary federal agency in the United States (US) that supports biomedical research, training, and clinical trials. NIH funding creates patents and jobs and thus helps the regional and national economy grow. Therefore, NIH funding would be expected to flow equitably to all 50 US states. However, there is a significant geographic disparity in the level of NIH funding received by various states. To that end, in 1993, authorized by Congress, NIH initiated a funding program called the Institutional Development Award (IDeA) to support states, called IDeA states, which received low levels of NIH funding. However, whether this approach has helped reduce the geographic disparity in NIH funding is unclear.

Methods

In the current study, we analyzed data on various NIH funding mechanisms awarded to 23 IDeA states vs. 27 non-IDeA states, as identified by NIH. We compared these data to the population size, federal taxes paid, and the number of PhDs and Post-doctoral Fellows(PDFs) trained in IDeA vs. non-IDeA states.

Results

The non-IDeA states received 93.6% of the total NIH funding, whereas IDeA states received only 6.4%. On average, one Institutional Training Grant was received for every 24 PhDs trained in non-IDeA states, while IDeA states received one such grant for every 46 PhDs trained. The non-IDeA states comprised 84.3% of the US population, whereas IDeA states comprised 15.7%. Thus, on a per capita basis, non-IDeA states received $120 from NIH, whereas IDeA states received $45 per person. For every million dollars contributed by the non-IDeA states toward federal taxes, they received $7,903 in NIH funding, while the IDeA States received only $4,617. For FY 2022, the NIH funding created an economic activity of $90.6 Billion in non-IDeA states and only $6.3 billion in IDeA states. When total NIH funding to the states was analyzed for the years 1992, 2002, 2012, and 2022, IDeA states received 4.7% of the total NIH funding in 1992, which increased to 7.2% in 2002 but dropped to 6.8% in 2012 and 6.5% in 2022. This demonstrated that IDeA states’ share of NIH funding remained relatively unchanged for the past 20 years.

Discussion

Eliminating the geographic disparity in NIH funding is crucial for achieving equitable health outcomes across the US, and for the IDeA states to successfully train future generations of physicians and scientists, as well as grow the regional economy. Although the NIH IDeA programs have helped enhance the research capacity in IDeA states, the funding currently constitutes less than 1% of the total NIH budget. Thus, it is critical to increase NIH funding to IDeA states to improve health outcomes for all Americans.
Career women's mental wellbeing in the era of population decline: the effects of working environment and family environment on the mental wellbeing
Authors: Zhou Bowen , Wu Xuchen , Ge Ruixue , Zhuo Dongni
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In recent years, it has become increasingly evident that the population in many countries has been declining. China, which was previously the world's most populous nation and is often categorized as an emerging economy, officially entered an era of population decline in 2022. The advent of this era has make China's economic development more uncertain and aging of population more pronounced. To address the population decline, the Chinese government implemented the “Three-Child Policy” to encourage childbirth, aiming to reverse the negative population growth. However, this policy has not achieved the expected goals. Instead, it has increased the pressure on women to bear children, particularly for career women, where such pressure may conflict with their existing work and family environments, subsequently affecting their mental wellbeing.

Methods

A survey was conducted to investigate the mental wellbeing status of career women in Changchun City, Jilin Province, Northeast China. It analyzes the impact of working and family environments on the mental wellbeing of these women.

Results

Based on the survey, this study draws five conclusions: A. The mental wellbeing status of career women varies across different ages, industries, and childbirth statuses. B. The perceived adverse impact of childbirth on the working environment may negatively affect the mental wellbeing of career women. C. The perceived adverse impact of childbirth on the family environment may negatively affect the mental wellbeing of career women. D. Career women are not satisfied with the effectiveness of current policies in protecting women's rights. E. Compared to working environments, there is a greater demand for career women in the family environments, particularly in reducing various family burdens.

Discussion

The pro-natalist policies introduced in response to negative population growth can worsen the mental wellbeing of career women, while the deterioration of their mental wellbeing could further accelerate population decline. Given the current challenges, this study suggests that effectively improving the mental wellbeing of career women requires building psychological resilience among childless career women, reducing the burden of family on career women, and continuously improving policies and regulations that protect the rights of career women.
Reusable glassware for routine cell culture—a sterile, sustainable and affordable alternative to single-use plastics
Authors: Trusler Emily C. , Davies Merlin , Spurrier Benjamin , Gould Samantha J.
Published: September 2024

Cell culture is a cornerstone of in vitro biological research. Whilst glassware was once commonplace in tissue culture facilities, in recent decades laboratories have moved towards a heavy reliance on single use plastics for routine procedures. Single use plastics allow for accessible, sterile, and often affordable equipment that comes at a high environmental cost. We developed a glassware preparation and cleaning process that allowed the comparison of “traditional” plastic-heavy, and adapted “sustainable,” cell culture practices, to empirically compare the sterility, viability, and proliferative capacity of cells cultured with differing techniques, by observing IL-6 production, morphology, and proliferation rate of cultured human pulmonary fibroblast cells. During which, we calculated the carbon footprint of traditional versus sustainable methods. We additionally endeavored to provide a realistic overview of the steps required to transition to more sustainable cell culture practices and make suggestions to ease the cost, labor, and time required to uptake similar practices in other laboratories. Cells cultured using reusable glassware did not show signs of contamination or stress compared to cells grown solely with plasticware, and glassware baked at 180°C for 120 min was sufficiently decontaminated and depyrogenated for culturing these cells. An individual researcher adopting the same methodology could reduce their carbon footprint by 105.92 kg of Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) whilst also saving money (£408.78) over a 10-year period. We predict that these benefits would be greater if more researchers were to uptake these adapted practices. We intend for this paper to reassure researchers that viable, sterile, and sustainable routine cell culture can be achieved with little upfront cost to the researcher, with the prospective benefit of greatly reducing the cost to the environment. We additionally hope that increased uptake, and thus demand of more sustainable practices, encourages suppliers, policy makers, and funding bodies to make sustainable practices more accessible to individual researchers and institutions worldwide.
Kīpuka Kuleana: restoring relationships to place and strengthening climate adaptation through a community-based land trust
Authors: Barger Sarah , Vaughan Mehana Blaich , Aiu Christina , Akutagawa Malia K. H. , Beall Elif C. , Luck Jennifer , Cordy Dominique , Maldonado Julie
Published: September 2024

This community case study explores how Kīpuka Kuleana, a Native Hawaiian women-led community-based land trust, revitalizes relationships between people and ʻāina (lands and waters) to perpetuate cultural practices that build climate resilience in Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi. We demonstrate that ancestral land protection is foundational to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts on Kauaʻi, an isolated rural island in the Pacific Ocean increasingly vulnerable to flooding and landslides, sea level rise, and other climate-related impacts. Kīpuka Kuleana strives to keep kupa ʻāina ʻohana (long-time families)—the anchors of community who care for, teach from, and maintain balance in their fragile environments—rooted to their homes amidst increasing gentrification, land dispossession, and climate-related disasters. Through our interwoven programs, we return lands to communities and communities to lands, a reciprocal process known as ʻāina hoʻi, to restore access to ʻāina for collective caretaking, place-based education, and spiritual rejuvenation. Our land trust partners with Indigenous and allied groups in Hawaiʻi, Louisiana, California and Borikén (Puerto Rico) to share learnings tied to land protection, disaster resilience, adaptation, and rematriation, or the restoration of relationships between Indigenous people and ancestral lands. We offer some of those lessons to illustrate how Indigenous-led community-based land trusts and stewardship efforts forge new possibilities for adapting in place and cultivating more connected, resilient ecosystems stewarded under Indigenous leadership, in alignment with the “Land Back” movement.
The role of third parties in shaping transboundary cooperation of the Sixaola river basin (Costa Rica and Panama): an analysis through States’ involvement, technocratic turn, and reterritorialization
Authors: Bréthaut Christian , Rodriguez Echavarria Tania
Published: September 2024

Transboundary water management in the Sixaola basin, shared by Costa Rica and Panama, has historically involved significant contributions from third parties. This study investigates their evolving roles and the implications for governance in this context. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of non-State actors interventions over time, focusing on changes in strategies, priorities, and their impact on transboundary basin governance. Our findings indicate that while non-state actor initiatives have attracted attention and financial resources, they have also introduced significant governance challenges, leading to inconsistencies in basin development. The analysis reveals that limited governmental involvement and the technocratic turn in development strategies have raised questions about basin development and its tangible impacts. Additionally, reterritorialization efforts highlight a local tendency to better align existing functional spaces with local concerns. This study contributes to the literature on transboundary basin management by providing insights into the multifaceted role of non-state actors in the Sixaola basin. It explores a case where governments remain distant in defining governance systems, highlighting the added value of focusing on non-state actors to grasp the complexity of hydropolitics and discussing the politics of river basin development.
Facilitators and barriers to mental health help-seeking in Indian immigrant youth in Gauteng, South Africa
Authors: Joji Timmy , Mapaling Curwyn
Published: September 2024

Introduction

International literature has documented significant underutilisation of mental health services among Indian immigrants. This study aimed to identify facilitators and barriers to mental health help-seeking among Indian immigrant youth in South Africa by evaluating their personal and lived experiences.

Methods

A qualitative study with a phenomenological design was conducted to understand the lived experiences of Indian immigrant youth regarding mental health help-seeking. Nine participants were recruited through purposive sampling from Gauteng. Data collection was performed through online interviews exploring participants’ lived experiences. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Five facilitator subthemes were identified: encouragement to seek help for mental health difficulties, social media and mass media influence, university and school environments, availability and awareness of resources, and open conversations about mental health. Four barrier subthemes emerged: individual perspectives on mental health, lack of access to resources, parental factors discouraging help-seeking, and community factors discouraging help-seeking.

Discussion

An improved understanding of these barriers and facilitators may allow other Indian immigrant youth to better manage their help-seeking processes while increasing awareness about similar experiences within the community.
Global patterns of mangrove resource utilization: a systematic review
Authors: Hamza Amina Juma , Esteves Luciana S. , Cvitanović Marin , Kairo James G.
Published: September 2024

Ecosystem services, encompassing the direct and indirect benefits of natural systems, are extensively studied in the context of mangroves. These carbon-rich ecosystems support coastal fisheries, shorelines, and harvestable resources to local communities. However, research on mangrove ecosystem services primarily are at a local scale, with limited exploration of global variations in resource utilization. This paper aims to bridge this knowledge gap through a systematic review of the existing literature conducted in Web of Science to assess the geographical variations in the coverage of mangrove use and ecosystem services. Out of 310 papers analyzed, Asia had the highest coverage (43%) with support to fisheries (39%) being the most researched ecosystem service worldwide. Direct use of mangrove resources exhibited regional variations, particularly in Asia, Africa, and North America. Mangrove wood, primarily used for fuel (16%) and construction (15%), was the most documented resource, with its usage persisting in low-income countries. Notably, a shift from being a primary income source to subsistence use was observed in Asia, Africa, and South America. Intrinsic and cultural services were less mentioned in the literature, emphasizing the need for future studies to focus on these areas to ensure culturally sensitive conservation efforts.
The carbon footprint of beef transport in Colombia: market connections and distribution networks
Authors: Castillo Johana Marcela , González Carlos Eduardo , Lienert Anja , Flórez Jesús Fernando , Bravo Parra Aura María , Triana Ángel Natalia , Burkart Stefan
Published: September 2024

Beef production is a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and has therefore been placed at the center of global policy and research agendas on climate change mitigation and adaptation. However, detailed quantification of the intensity of beef’s contribution to emissions has mostly focused on the farm level. This research uses the calculation of a food miles emissions indicator to analyze the Colombian beef supply network from slaughterhouses to national consumption centers and its emissions between 2019 and 2022, including a network analysis and weighted average source distance (WASD) estimation. The results were compared with emissions from the transport of alternative animal proteins, specifically chicken and pork. The results show that the beef miles emissions indicator in Colombia is equivalent to 0.055330 kg CO2eq/ton of beef/km, which is higher than pork and chicken. These findings highlight the need to develop comprehensive approaches and strategies to reduce emissions from beef production, recognizing the critical role that the beef supply network, transport distances, infrastructure, and technology play in beef-related emissions.
Evaluation of protective immune responses induced by DNA vaccines encoding Echinococcus granulosus EgM123 protein in Beagle dogs
Authors: Wang Ning , Xian Jinwen , Zhao Pengpeng , Zhao Wenqing , Pu Na , Jia Xinyue , Zhang Yanyan , Bo Xinwen , Wang Zhengrong
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Echinococcus granulosus, known as cystic echinococcosis, is a prominent zoonotic parasitic disease of significant global concern. The definitive hosts serves as the primary reservoir for the transmission of echinococcosis, as well as a main factor in the prevention and control of the disease. Unfortunately, there is currently no commercially available vaccine for these hosts. Nevertheless, DNA vaccines show potential as a feasible strategy for the control and management of parasitic diseases.

Methods

In this study, the EgM123 antigen was selected for its well-documented immunogenic properties to develop a DNA vaccine aimed at combating E. granulosus infection in canines.

Results

The results showed a marked increase in IgG levels in the group vaccinated with pVAX1-EgM123 DNA compared to the PBS group. Additionally, the cytokines IL-1, IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-6 were significantly upregulated in the pVAX1-EgM123 DNA vaccine group. Furthermore, in comparison to the PBS control group, the EgM123 DNA vaccine group exhibited a notable 87.85% reduction in worm burden and a 65.00% inhibition in segment development.

Discussion

These findings indicate that the pVAX1-EgM123 DNA vaccine shows promising immunogenicity, successfully eliciting a targeted immune response in canines. Moreover, it significantly diminishes the worm burden and hinders the progression of tapeworms in the pVAX1-EgM123 DNA vaccine group. These findings suggest that the pVAX1-EgM123 DNA vaccine holds promise as a potential candidate vaccine for combating E. granulosus infection in dogs.
Wuzhishan miniature pig-derived intestinal 2D monolayer organoids to investigate the enteric coronavirus infection
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Yang Ning , Tan Chen , Zhang Yunhang , Gao Shuai , Cai Yifei , Zhang Yue , Fu Yuguang , Liu Guangliang , Li Yang
Published: September 2024

Intestinal organoids are valuable tools for investigating intestinal physiology and pathology ex vivo. In previous studies, intestinal organoids of commercial pigs have been developed. Here, we established intestinal organoids derived from Wuzhishan miniature pigs (WZS pigs), a unique kind of pig in the Hainan province of China. Three-dimensional (3D) intestinal organoids and organoid monolayers were developed and assessed. Furthermore, the susceptibility of organoid monolayers of WZS pigs to transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) was demonstrated. An RNA-seq analysis revealed that the TGEV infection stimulated antiviral and inflammatory immune responses in organoid monolayer models. The study implied the transmission risk of swine enteric coronavirus on WZS pigs and provided useful tools for further research on WZS pigs as laboratory miniature pig models.
El rol de las instituciones educativas en la construcción de proyectos de vida de niños, niñas y adolescentes: una revisión de la literatura
Authors: Zambrano-Vacacela Luis Leonardo
Published: September 2024

Los Proyectos de Vida (PdV) son planes trazados por las personas para alcanzar metas en diferentes ámbitos. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar la influencia de las instituciones educativas en la construcción del PdV en los niveles de enseñanza primaria, secundaria y superior de niños, niñas y adolescentes. Para ello, se realizó una revisión bibliográfica siguiendo la metodología PRISMA, con lo que se identificó un total de 30 estudios localizados en el período 2004-2024 que cumplían con los criterios de inclusión. Los resultados mostraron que los establecimientos educativos cumplen un rol fundamental en la construcción del PdV de los estudiantes, brindándoles herramientas y estrategias para desarrollar sus habilidades, valores y metas personales, sin embargo, se evidenció la falta de preparación docente para guiar este proceso y la necesidad de fomentar una mayor articulación entre los diferentes niveles. Se concluye que es necesario fortalecer la capacitación de la comunidad educativa para la construcción del PdV, de esta forma, garantizar una educación integral que responda a las demandas de la sociedad actual.
Importancia de las habilidades blandas en el contexto laboral: una revisión de la literatura académica
Authors: Garavito-Hernández Youseline , Villamizar-Mancilla Adan Ferney , Castañeda-Villamizar Luz Piedad
Published: September 2024

Las habilidades blandas son imperativas tanto para el éxito individual en el ámbito laboral como para la eficacia de los procesos empresariales. Las empresas buscan talento humano que no solo posea habilidades técnicas, sino también competencias interpersonales, cognitivas y de gestión emocional. El propósito de esta investigación es entender la importancia de estas habilidades en los entornos organizacionales y abrir nuevas vías de investigación para fortalecer los estudios sobre gestión del talento humano. Se utilizó una metodología de revisión documental de tipo cualitativa-descriptiva. Los hallazgos muestran que la comunicación asertiva tiene una relevancia destacada en el ámbito laboral, por encima del liderazgo y el trabajo en equipo. Como conclusión se enfatiza que esta habilidad no solo mejora el desempeño en actividades diarias, sino que también son fundamentales para que las personas puedan integrarse eficazmente en entornos laborales dinámicos y exigentes. Como futura línea de investigación, se propone validar el nivel de asertividad en estudiantes universitarios para identificar posibles deficiencias en el proceso de comunicación asertiva y desarrollar estrategias para fortalecer la enseñanza de esta habilidad.
Modelos de gestión de conocimiento en negocios y economía. Análisis bibliométrico 2012 -2022
Authors: Galárraga-Tobar Sophia , Ajila-Rodas Patricio , Sarmiento-Torres Ingrid , Montecel-Shiguango Jorge
Published: September 2024

En este artículo se propuso identificar las relaciones entre la gestión del conocimiento en el ámbito empresarial y económico de las producciones científicas a través del análisis bibliométrico obtenidas de todos los documentos indexados en la base de datos Scopus en el periodo 2012 al 2022, utilizando los programas VOS Viewer para la  construcción de redes bilbiográficas y Jamovi para el análisis estadístico descriptivo Con el propósito de  estructurar una conexión entre la gestión del conocimiento en el ámbito empresarial con la realidad de los diferentes contextos de estudio. Los resultados revelaron que los autores que mayor influencia tuvieron en la red de publicaciones fue García VH.M con investigaciones en gestión del conocimiento aplicadas en el sector financiero, luego por Sensuse D.I. que realizó la revisión teórica de la gestión del conocimiento en organizaciones privadas, seguido por Valencia-Arias, su enfoque de la gestión del conocimiento en la el contexto ni universitario y , Ahmad  orientado a la integración de recursos digitales y evaluación del rendimiento bajo la gestión del conocimiento. Además, el 22% de las investigaciones se centraron en aspectos teóricos y académicos, mientras que el 21% abordaron la experiencia de empresas en diferentes sectores económicos, el 20% en el área de sistemas, el 5% en el campo de la medicina y medio ambiente, el 3% en el sector público y el 2% en el ámbito cultural. Se destacó la importancia del conocimiento que generan todos los individuos y el uso que se dé a esta información para optimizar procesos organizacionales.  Se encontró que los estudios en gestión del conocimiento destacaron el valor de la cultura organizacional para establecer metas basadas en experiencias previas, convirtiéndolas en conocimiento formal en la organización. Esta investigación sugiere que las empresas, independientemente de su sector, estructuran el conocimiento organizacional; proporcionando un marco para la generación de conocimientos en otros campos.
Competencia digital en el aula: la autopercepción de los futuros docentes en Paraguay
Authors: Cañete-Estigarribia Delia Lucía
Published: September 2024

La creciente importancia de la competencia digital en el ámbito educativo resalta la necesidad de que los futuros docentes tengan sólidas habilidades digitales para garantizar una enseñanza efectiva. Este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar la autopercepción de la competencia digital de los futuros docentes en los Institutos de Formación Docente (IFD) de Paraguay, así como identificar los factores que influyen en dicha percepción. Se utilizó un diseño de investigación transversal con un enfoque exploratorio y una metodología cuantitativa de tipo descriptivo y correlacional. Para la recolección de datos, se aplicó un cuestionario a una muestra representativa de 518 futuros docentes a nivel nacional. Los hallazgos revelan que los participantes perciben tener un nivel intermedio de competencia digital; su formación en Tecnología de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC) se realiza de manera reglada de tipo telemática, y sus actitudes hacia el uso de estas tecnologías son en general positivas. Además, se encontró una correlación media estadísticamente significativa entre la formación en TIC, la actitud hacia estas tecnologías y la competencia digital auto percibida. Las conclusiones del estudio enfatizan que los IFD implementen estrategias metodológicas activas que promuevan actitudes positivas hacia las tecnologías y ofrezcan una formación más sólida en estas áreas. Esto fortalecerá las competencias digitales de los futuros docentes, lo que a su vez puede mejorar la calidad de la enseñanza y el aprendizaje en el contexto educativo actual.
Optimizing the Landing Stability of Blended-Wing-Body Aircraft with Distributed Electric Boundary-Layer Ingestion Propulsors through a Novel Thrust Control Configuration
Authors: Yu Mingxing , Tao Zhi , Li Haiwang , Tang Peng
Published: September 2024

The imperative for energy conservation and environmental protection has led to the development of innovative aircraft designs. This study explored a novel thrust control configuration for blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft with distributed electric boundary-layer ingestion (BLI) propulsors, addressing the issues of sagging and altitude loss during landing. The research focused on a small-scale BWB demonstrator equipped with six BLI fans, each with a 90 mm diameter. Various thrust control configurations were evaluated to achieve significant thrust reduction while maintaining lift, including dual-layer sleeve, separate flap-type, single-stage linkage flap-type, and dual-stage linkage flap-type configurations. The separate flap-type configuration was tested through ground experiments. Control experiments were conducted under three different experimental conditions as follows: deflection of the upper cascades only, deflection of the lower cascades only, and symmetrical deflection of both cascades. For each condition, the deflection angles tested were 0°, 10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, and 60°. The thrust reductions observed for these three conditions were 0%, 37.5%, and 27.5% of the maximum thrust, respectively, without additional changes in the pitch moment. A combined thrust adjustment method maintaining a zero pitch moment demonstrated a linear thrust reduction to 20% of its initial value. The experiment concluded that the novel thrust control configuration effectively adjusted thrust without altering the BLI fans’ rotation speed, solving the coupled lift–thrust problem and enhancing BWB landing stability.
An Automatic Software Defect Repair Method Based on Multi-Objective Genetic Programming
Authors: Han Tiantian , Chu Yonghe , Liu Fangzheng
Published: September 2024

Due to the explosive growth of software quantity and the mixed ability of software developers, a large number of software defects emerge during the later stages of software maintenance. The search method based on genetic programming is one of the most popular in search algorithms, but it also has some issues. The single-objective approach to validate and select offspring patches without considering other constraints can affect the efficiency of patch generation. To address this issue, this paper proposes an automatic software repair method based on Multi-objective Genetic Programming (MGPRepair). Firstly, the method adopts a lightweight context analysis strategy to find suitable repair materials. Secondly, it decouples the replacement statements and insertion statements in the repair materials, using a lower-granularity patch representation method to encode the patches in the search space. Then, the automatic software defect repair is treated as a multi-objective search problem, and the NSGA-II multi-objective optimization algorithm is used to find simpler repair patches. Finally, the test case filtering technique is used to accelerate the patch validation process and generate correct patches. MGPRepair was experimentally evaluated on 395 real Java software defects from the Defects4J dataset. The experimental results show that MGPRepair can generate test case-passing patches for 51 defects, of which 35 defect patches are equivalent to manually generated patches. Its repair the efficiency and success rate are higher to other excellent automatic software defect repair methods such as jGenProg, RSRepair, ARJA, Nopol, Capgen, and SequenceR.
The Evanescence of Ritual and Its Consequences: Reflections on the Phenomenology of Human Communication in the Rise of Cybernetic Culture
Authors: Macke Frank J.
Published: September 2024

This paper addresses semiotic elements of ritual in human encounter. The notion of an essential ritual presence in the existential/communicative connection of persons has been established in the work of Langer, Gadamer, and Jakobson. Yet, as Richard Lanigan maintains, vital aspects of Jakobson’s model of communication are typically missed in the application of his work, a consequence of which is that social science no longer differentiates between “communication” and “information”. As such, everything perceived as meaningful is reducible to “message”, and thus, effective communication means merely “finding the right message”. The regression to our current cybernetic world, along with the intellectual paradigms enabling it, was never a foregone conclusion, but the entrenchment of social science in information theory makes it clear that an epistemological commitment to a semiotic phenomenology of communicative existence—and the visibility of ritual life—may well be our only way out.
John Damascene’s Arguments about the Existence of God: A Logico-Philosophical and Religio-Hermeneutic Approach
Authors: Adrahtas Vassilios
Published: September 2024

The Exact Exposition of the Orthodox Faith is perhaps the most logically structured and inspired work not only in the oeuvre of the seventh-to-eighth-century theologian John Damascene, but most likely throughout the entire Greek Patristic literature. As such, the Exact Exposition definitely presents some quite intriguing features, such as the prolific use of logical distinctions, syllogisms, or full-fledged arguments, to name a few. Regarding the latter, John Damascene’s use of certain arguments in order to prove the existence of God not only hold a unique place in Byzantine theology but have also exercised a tremendous influence on Eastern Orthodox apologetics. However, what I would call his rationalization agenda comes not only with merits but with faults as well. It is to both these that the present study draws attention by evaluating them logico-philosophically and interpreting them religio-hermeneutically. What is of special interest is the fact that John Damascene’s logical faults are the most interesting parts of his theologizing.
Spiritual Leadership in the Upheaval of Settler Colonialism
Authors: Munayer Salim J.
Published: September 2024

In the current global landscape, characterized by religious fervour, social and political unrest, economic instability, and environmental challenges, spiritual leaders stand as pivotal agents of change. Their role is especially crucial in contexts marred by ingrained injustices and persistent conflicts, such as the Palestinian–Israeli settler colonial context—a reality I have been intimately involved with over three decades of reconciliation work. This paper contextualizes scholarship on spiritual leadership within the Palestinian–Israeli context by integrating it with settler colonial theory. By applying insights about spiritual leadership to this context, three key traits of spiritual leaders—(1) spiritual authority, (2) discernment, and (3) the ethical use of power—are identified as essential for envisioning an alternative future. By embodying these traits, spiritual leaders can effectively guide their communities through the multifaceted realities, advocating a transformative approach to leadership and interreligious work.
Aspects of Growth in the District Central Co-Operative Bank in India
Authors: Sri Gururaghavendra K. M. , Prasad Rajendra
Published: September 2024

The reserves are essential to Co-operative banks since they are involved in so many different aspects of the banking industry. The Credit Co-operative Societies Act, which was subsequently revised in 1912, and the establishment of Co-operative banks with an installation base were both done by the government in 1904. Rather of emphasising rural financing, the main Agriculture Credit Co-operative Society Act concentrates on long-term credit. The article’s objectives are to evaluate the reserve funds and deposits of Indian Co-operative banks and investigate their development factors. Journals, papers, and other publications will be among the sources from which secondary data will be gathered. The data will be interpreted and analysed using statistical methods, and the results will be examined using charts, bar graphs, clustered column graphs, and Pai charts.
The Role of Women in the Development Path of Kerala
Authors: Varughese Georgi Mathew
Published: September 2024

Kerala, a state in southwestern India, has achieved remarkable social and economic development, surpassing many other Indian states. A significant contributor to this success is the empowered role of women in Kerala’s society. This paper examines the crucial contributions of women to Kerala’s development path, highlighting their impact on education, healthcare, economy, and social reform. With a high literacy rate and active participation in the workforce, women have driven positive change and played a vital role in shaping the state’s development trajectory. The paper explores the historical and cultural context that has enabled women’s empowerment in Kerala, discussing the influence of matrilineal traditions, education initiatives, and social movements. By analyzing the experiences and achievements of women in Kerala, this research demonstrates the transformative power of gender equality and women’s empowerment in achieving sustainable development and social progress.
Under-Recognized Threats for Cardio-Vascular Disease (CVD) and Health of Women
Authors: Sangamithra A. , Subadarshini R. P.
Published: September 2024

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women globally weighing, substantially, and disproportionately compared to men. Common factors like high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, diabetes, poor diet, obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity have been acknowledged. New evidence indicates the existence of several lesser-known risk factors that specifically affect women’s cardiovascular health. This paper provides an analysis of these under-recognized risk factors, which include psychosocial variables, intimate partner violence (IPV), health literacy, poverty, unstable economic conditions, and socioeconomic and cultural issues. Through recognition and action on these often-overlooked factors influencing women’s cardiovascular health, the world community can improve women’s health more broadly. A systematic review of past twenty years existing literature which were selected from data base PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar was conducted to collect and analyze the relevant data.
Gender Persecution & Protest Mandate in Meena Kandasamy’s Novels: A Social Hierarchy and Instability
Authors: Genesia Quinn Andrina , Meena R
Published: September 2024

Meena Kandasamy’s novel,“The Gypsy Goddess,” serves as a compelling exploration of subaltern voices, specifically delving into the intersections of caste and gender in Indian society. This paper critically analyses the nuanced portrayal of Dalits, particularly women, highlighting their struggles, resilience, and resistance within a complex web of societal norms. Through a multi-narrative structure and authentic language use, Kandasamy’s work challenges readers to confront the entrenched inequalities and reflect on the urgent need for societal change. She addresses language identity, feminism, and the eradication of caste. Her book “When I Hit You: Or, A Portrait of the Writer as a Young Wife” addresses how women in well-educated households are suppressed by patriarchal culture. The narrative centres on an accomplished Indian woman from a wealthy family who marries a reputable university professor. She outlines the feelings a woman experiences as she adapts to the circumstances in the household. By talking more about the conflict in her life, she tries to elevate herself to the level of a woman. She wishes to reveal to the world the humanity of women. She has the discernment to handle difficulties and hostilities without breaking down or becoming upset.
Blurring Boundaries: Real and Hyperreal Elements in Daniel Kehlmann’s Measuring the World
Authors: Atheesh N , Mahesh M
Published: September 2024

The academic paper centers on evaluating the real and hyperreal elements in the German novel Measuring the World(2005) written by Daniel Kehlmann. The novel is set in Germany in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, during the Enlightenment era, and bears a resemblance of the prominent figures of real time, namely the mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss and the geographer Alexander von Humboldtof the same centuries. The historical description of these prominent figures undergoes alteration, and the writer adds several dramatic events to it. This research paper attempts to analyse the theory of hyperreality by the French theorist Jean Baudrillard. The paper also highlights the concept of Simulation that Kehlmann employs in altering the reality with representations. In further, the paper aims to provide an understanding of the examination of narration, character development, and exaggerated events exploring the multiple-layered narrative.
Proximity of Nature in Ruskin Bond’s “The Book of Nature”
Authors: Ramya D
Published: September 2024

Ruskin Bond, often hailed as the Wordsworth of Indian literature, has carved a niche for himself with his evocative prose and timeless tales set amidst the tranquil beauty of nature. In his collection “The Book of Nature,” Bond masterfully explores the symbiotic relationship between humans and the natural world, drawing inspiration from his own experiences in the Himalayan foothills. This essay aims to delve deeply into the thematic exploration of nature in Bond’s work, examining how he portrays the proximity between human existence and the natural environment.
The Constrained Position of Dalit in Society- Bama’s Seamless Effort for the Evolution of Dalit Community with Reference to Karukku
Authors: Sundaram C
Published: September 2024

The novel ‘Karukku’ plays a tectonic role in Dalit society. It was written by Faustina Mary, her pen name is Bama. Karukku probed into the conflicts between the community and the author. It portrays the thirst of a Dalit woman for her progression. She worked not only for her development but also strived a lot for the evolution of her community. This novel depicts three different types of discrimination in the life of Dalit people. It encompasses the caste, class and gender discriminations. The protagonist went under many social tribulations throughout her life. She struggled a lot in the patriarchal society to let her community free. Bama wanted her community to be united and she explained this desire in her novel. Dalits were treated by high borns as untouchables. Bama’s certainty on shrine’s endeavor over Dalits evolution become a failure conception. She only experienced failures in all her endeavor for the betterment of Dalits. All her efforts end in vain. According to her no one leads a civilized route for the evolution of dalits than her, so she quit from the shrine as a nun and started working for her people by her own. Dalit believes that they were created by God because of his likeness. So no one could disdain them. Even though they have lots of issues which beset them they have thousands of reasons to sustain their loyal life. They believe themselves as superior. Above all they too are humans like others. They were segregated by the ethics of human but not by God. Bama want to change this identity of Dalit by becoming an Identity for her ‘Dalit’ Community. She wanted to educate and impart knowledge to her people which is the basic right of human. She used Karukku as a weapon to instill the thought of upper born as wrong. She is the first person to talk about all these taboos faced by Dalit people. As a victim of this tribulations she portrays her pain using this novel. And insisted the need of independence and liberation. This paper aims at revealing Bama’s efforts for the evolution of Dalit Community.
Urbanscapes and National Visions in Post-Millennial Indian English Fiction: Identities Renegotiated
Authors: Santra Sourav , Tiwari Mukesh
Published: September 2024

The contemporary writers not only explore the rural setting of Indian suburbs but also experiment with new narrative techniques to capture the multifaceted realities of life in 21st-century India. In Reading New India, E. Dawson Varughese considers the role literature plays in shaping cultural understandings and representations of India both domestically and internationally. Taking into account issues such as globalization, modernity, identity, gender, class, and cultural hybridization, she also examines how Indian authors navigate and respond to them in contemporary Indian society. Through in-depth analysis of key works, these provide an insight into Indian English Fiction that reflects and shapes national consciousness, navigating complex issues of history, politics, and societal change. This article examines a rich exploration of the protagonists and representations of urban landscapes contributing to the construction and negotiation of national visions in contemporary Indian English Fiction. Furthermore, writers like Adiga, Chandra, and Roy use the urban setting to explore themes of globalization, westernization, consumerism, class divides, gender dynamics, and identity struggles faced by urban youth. Additionally, the chaos and alienation of city life is contrasted against nostalgic visions of peaceful rural life. Cities become symbolic spaces where age-old Indian values and customs collide with western ideas and lifestyles. The article explores how Indian fiction has moved beyond the notions of ‘postcolonial’ writing to reflect increasingly confident and diverse cultures by exploring the work of Aravind Adiga, Vikram Chandra, and Arundhuti Roy reflecting the changing face of Indian cities and how urbanization reflects and shapes the national identity.