bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Film Pedagogy as a Means of Modern Mastering of Mathematics at School
Authors: Ilyasov Ilya I. , Nagibina Nataliya L. , Novashina Marina S.
Published: January 2024

Relevance. The article provides a theoretical analysis of the requirements for an educational film from the point of view of psychology and pedagogy. The analysis of Russian and foreign studies in the field of perception of sound and video, as well as the semantic content of the educational film showed that they research general characteristics and mechanisms of processing for auditory and visual information in creating an image of reality. The main studies consider the focus of attention and semantic and cognitive attitudes. Objective. The research aims to create a video course that allows a student with problems mastering mathematics to overcome the "learned helplessness", to find meaning in studying algebra and geometry, to believe that learning mathematics is easy and interesting. Methods. Content analysis, subject-subject dialogue, assessment and forecast of changes, conclusions from general to particular and from particular to general, comparative analysis. Results. The project "Matstream" considering the main topics of algebra that students of primary school study in a series of video tutorials is presented. Taking into account the cognitive characteristics of modern fifth-ninth grade students is implemented in the presentation of educational material. Three blocks of videos are aimed at forming an attitude to the perception of abstract-logical information expressed in mathematical symbols, specific knowledge, skills and abilities. Conclusion. In creating educational audiovisual products, it is necessary to take into account motivational, emotional, and cognitive components. Within the framework of the Matstream project, a program of assistance in teaching mathematics to schoolchildren is being implemented. It also involved developing attitudes to the perception of abstract-logical language of mathematical algorithms and overcoming difficulties in mastering mathematics.
Temporal Paradigm in the Concept of Y.K. Strelkov (on the 80th Anniversary of his Birth)
Authors: Leonov Sergey V. , Noskova Olga G.
Published: January 2024

Background. Modern development of psychological science in the field of studying work processes and formation of professional skills is impossible without reliance on the fundamental theoretical and methodological foundations of the concept of temporal paradigm developed by Y.K. Strelkov. It is important to analyze the temporal approach in the context of understanding subjectivity not only in relation to the category of time, but also to other important concepts, such as space, energy, movement, which are inseparable from the consciousness and experience of the subject. Objective. The article aims to analyze the development of the main directions of Y.K. Strelkov's scientific thought in the formation of the temporal paradigm of modern psychological science. Another aim is to determine the ways of development of the temporal approach in the context of modern psychological knowledge. Methods. Theoretical, methodological, and comparative analysis of the temporal paradigm of Y.K. Strelkov in the context of modern psychological science. Sample. The material was obtained on a sample of representatives of different professions: aviators, navigators, pilots, drivers, operators, dispatchers, and athletes of various qualifications. Results. Scientific and methodological bases of Y.K. Strelkov's concept formed the basis for the development of engineering psychology, occupational psychology, psychology of sport, transport psychology, psychology of professional skill development. It has laid the basic scientific and philosophical foundations, key concepts of the temporal paradigm in psychology, empirical approaches and research methods in the evaluation of temporal phenomena. Examples of the important role of temporal analysis in different professions are demonstrated. The necessity to elaborate and develop many psychological concepts, models, concepts used in modern psychological science was shown. Conclusion. Further development of modern psychological knowledge in the field of studying professional mastery is possible within the framework of Y.K. Strelkov's temporal paradigm. The ideas formulated by Yuri Konstantinovich formed the basis of modern multifunctional diagnostic-developmental complexes of professional development. Operational and semantic structures of professional experience served as a methodological basis for the concept of "system image representation" in the development of professional skills in athletes.
Fatty acid profile of black soldier fly larvae and frass as affected by different growing substrates
Authors: Addeo N.F. , Tucciarone I. , Bovera F. , Vozzo S. , Secci G. , Parisi G.
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to evaluate how different food wastes used as growth substrates affected the lipid composition of Hermetia illucens larvae; the relationship among substrates, larvae, and frass fatty acid (FA) composition was studied. Six thousand five-day-old Hermetia illucens larvae were allotted to one of four different substrates named CTRL (a control substrate made of broiler feed), V50 + B50 (vegetable and butchery wastes, 1:1 ratio), V75 + B25 (vegetable and butchery wastes, 3:1 ratio), and V100 (entirely composed of vegetables). Lipids were extracted from substrates, larvae, and frass separately and the FAs were quantified. Saturated FAs (SFAs) prevailed in all the groups. The CTRL larvae had the highest SFA (64.3%), while the V100 and V50 + B50 larvae had the lowest percentages. The V100 frass recorded a significantly higher SFA value (44.8%) than the others. Lauric acid (C12:0) was high in CTRL (0.2%) and V100 (0.3%) substrates and amount at 7.6 and 9.6% in their correspondent frass, respectively. However, C12:0 content was higher in the CTRL larvae than in the V100 ones (36.7 and 24.5%, respectively), while it had an intermediate value (28.9%) in the V75 + B25 larvae. Finally, the n-3 polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs) level was high in the V100 substrate and larvae but not in the V100 frass. The relationship between frass FAs and their correspondent amounts in substrates and larvae was significant for C12:0, C18:2n-6, MUFAs, and n-6 PUFAs. There was a positive relationship for C12:0 and MUFAs with both substrates and larvae, while for C18:2n-6 and n-6 PUFAs, the relationship was positive for substrates but negative for larvae. In conclusion, the V100 substrate appeared to be the most suitable treatment for rearing Hermetia illucens because of the positive effects on the fatty acid content of larvae (low SFA and high n-3 PUFA content) and frass (optimal lauric acid levels for fertilizers).
Diversity of Hypnea (Rhodophyta) in South Florida, with description of H. spiniformis sp. nov.
Authors: NAUER FABIO , FRESHWATER D. WILSON , HATT DANIELLE C. , DURAN ALAIN , OLIVEIRA MARIANA C. , CAMPBELL JUSTIN E. , FUJII MUTUE T. , COLLADO-VIDES LIGIA
Published: January 2024

The genus Hypnea is well known to be rich in cryptic species, with many new species being recognized recently based on molecular data. Therefore, we used mitochondrial (COI-5P) and plastid (rbcL) molecular markers, in addition to aspects of morphology, to investigate the diversity of Hypnea on the coast of South Florida. Molecular divergences and phylogenetic inferences indicated that four species were present: H. caraibica and H. cryptica, both new occurrences on the Florida coast; H. musciformis, already previously reported and H. spiniformis sp. nov. described in this work. Our data reinforce the importance of studies with an integrative taxonomy approach to delimit species and correctly identify them.
A new species of Ruellia L. (Ruellieae, Acanthaceae) from Goiás state, Brazil
Authors: MENDONÇA GUSTAVO VIEIRA RODRIGUES , SILVA MARCOS JOSÉ DA
Published: January 2024

Taxonomic studies about Ruellia from Goiás state, Brazil, ongoing, revealed a new species, R. kalungae, that it is here described and illustrated, and systematically positioned. The novel species is similar to Ruellia nitens in the subshubby erect habit, leaves light green and corolla infundibuliform. However, it differs from the latter by several characters related specially to the shapes and indument of the leaves, bracts and capsules, inflorescence type, aspect and size of the calyx lacinia, presence de bracteoles, and number and shape of the seeds.
Sporidesmiella motuoensis, a new freshwater fungus from Tibetan Plateau, China
Authors: XIONG YU-CHUN , XU RONG-JU , LUO ZONG-LONG , GAO QIAN , ZHAO QI
Published: January 2024

During an investigation of freshwater fungi in the Tibetan Plateau, China, a new hyphomycetous fungus, Sporidesmiella motuoensis, was isolated from submerged decaying wood in freshwater habitat. Sporidesmiella motuoensis is characterized by cylindrical, straight or slightly flexuous conidiophores, hyaline, smooth conidiogenous cells, and obovoid, hyaline to pale brown, 3-euseptate conidia. Phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS and LSU sequence data indicated that S. motuoensis formed a highly supportive monophyletic lineage within Sporidesmiella. A full description, illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses results of S. motuoensis, along with comparisons to other affinities within Sporidesmiella are provided here.
Description of the first species of gall wasp (Hym., Cynipidae: Cynipini) on Quercus grahamii (Fagaceae)
Authors: PUJADE-VILLAR JULI , PÉREZ-TORRES BETZABETH C. , COOMBES ALLEN J. , ARAGÓN-GARCÍA AGUSTÍN , RODRÍGUEZ-ACOSTA MARICELA , LÓPEZ-OLGUIN JESÚS F. , MELIKA GEORGE
Published: January 2024

A new species of oak gall wasp, Andricus coombesi Pujade-Villar & Pérez-Torres n. sp. from Mexico, known only from its asexual generation that induces galls on acorns of Quercus grahamii Benth., (section Lobatae) is described. Its presence causes the complete disappearance of the acorn. Diagnosis, distribution and biological data of the new species are given. Andricus coombesi Pujade-Villar & Pérez-Torres n. sp. represents the first gall wasp species mentioned from this host.
A new widely distributed invasive alien species of Amasa ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae: Xyleborini)
Authors: KNÍŽEK MILOŠ , SMITH SARAH M.
Published: January 2024

Amasa parviseta Knížek & Smith, new species is described from Australia, Brazil, Uruguay, France and Spain. The species is native to Australia and appears to have spread widely in association with introduced Eucalyptus species.
Harnessing the Power of Sn-Doped ZnO Rice-Shaped Nanomaterials for Microbial Defense
Authors: Umar Ahmad , Kumar Rajesh , Behal Isha , Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Alyami Abeer Yousef , Al-Qahtani Nada Mohammed Ali , Shaikh Ibrahim Ahmed
Published: January 2024

Hydrothermally synthesized Sn-doped ZnO nanorices underwent comprehensive characterization, encompassing structural, morphological, compositional, optical, and vibrational features using advanced techniques. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) revealed nanorices with
dimensions 0.5—0.9 μm length and 80—150 nm width and distinctive morphology, displaying tapered or pointed ends, flower-like agglomeration, and a textured surface. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) confirmed the wurtzite hexagonal phase, and the Debye-Scherer equation estimated
an average crystal size of 9.17 nm. Antibacterial assessment against Bacillus cereus exhibited a notable dose-dependent effect, with substantial zones of inhibition (ZOI) at 90 μg/mL, comparable to standard antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin. Antifungal evaluation against Candida
albicans demonstrated a dosedependent trend, indicating a potent hindrance of fungal growth at higher concentrations. Comparative analysis against the standard antifungal agent, Itraconazole, revealed a marginally superior antimicrobial effect of Sn-doped ZnO nanorices at the highest concentration
tested. The nanorices exhibited comparable or superior efficacy compared to standard drugs, highlighting their potential as effective and tailored antimicrobial agents.
Aramid Fiber Composites for Sporting Equipment: Exploring Preparation Methods and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Liu Jiahaocheng
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the novel utilization of aramid fiber composite materials in sports equipment, elucidating their mechanical properties and development processes. Aramid fibers, despite their relatively brief 30-year existence in the materials realm, have emerged as pivotal elements
in composite material research. Their exceptional traits, including high tensile strength, resistance to corrosion, impact resilience, pliancy, and effective thermal insulation, have rendered them pivotal in diverse applications, particularly in sports equipment. This research delves into
the meticulous preparation methods of aramid fiber composites and comprehensively analyzes their mechanical attributes. Experimental findings ascertain a direct and proportional relationship between the tensile strength of these composites and the surface density of the fabric. Moreover, investigations
into impact strength and wear rate, particularly at a 10% aramid fiber content, showcase optimal performance under varying temperature conditions. This study accentuates the immense potential of aramid composites in elevating the performance and durability of sports equipment, thereby paving
the way for significant advancements in this domain.
Changing Patterns of Youth Social Exclusion in South Korea
Authors: Lee Yongho , Park Rosa
Published: January 2024

This study analyzed data from the Korea Welfare Panel Study to identify changing patterns in social exclusion among South Korean youth and determine the influencing factors. The study examined 345 youth from 2012 to 2021. A fuzzy set theory and growth mixture model was used to measure social exclusion and identify patterns and the associated factors during this timeframe. The main findings are as follows. First, the social exclusion gap among South Korean youth that emerged a decade ago has continued, with high, middle, and low levels of exclusion identified. Second, the analysis revealed that looking at the demographics, being female, having less education and lower personal and household income increased the likelihood of falling into a relatively higher level of social exclusion. Based on the results, policy recommendations are suggested to mitigate the social exclusion gap among Korean youth.
The post-hegemonic turn in humanitarian intervention: regional ownership and troubled great power management
Authors: Jakobsen Peter Viggo , Knudsen Tonny Brems
Published: January 2024

Since the Great Recession in 2008, the academic debate has been flooded with literature that predicts the sunset of the liberal world order including the practice of humanitarian intervention as initiated at the United Nations (UN) in the early 1990s and regulated by the adoption of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) in 2005. In contrast, this article argues that the practice of humanitarian intervention continues to operate under post-hegemonic and multipolar conditions, but in new ways. Based on a theorization of fundamental institutional change and exploratory case studies of the international reactions to the humanitarian crises in Libya, Côte d’Ivoire, Syria and Mali, and supportive evidence from Gambia and DR Congo, we show that contemporary humanitarian intervention is closely related to a normalization of the fundamental institution of great power management and a regionalization of international society. In this post-hegemonic world order, humanitarian intervention is shaped, facilitated or hampered by various practices of great power management including concert, soft balancing and hard balancing. The return of great-power competition means an inconsistent and sometimes counterproductive resort to humanitarian intervention far from the ideals of the R2P, but the growing importance of regional ownership affects the great powers, keeps this potential response to mass atrocity crimes on the table and adds to its legitimacy.
Benefits of the Curious Behavior of Bayesian Hierarchical Item Response Theory Models—An in-Depth Investigation and Bias Correction
Authors: König Christoph , Alexandrowicz Rainer W.
Published: January 2024

When using Bayesian hierarchical modeling, a popular approach for Item Response Theory (IRT) models, researchers typically face a tradeoff between the precision and accuracy of the item parameter estimates. Given the pooling principle and variance-dependent shrinkage, the expected behavior of Bayesian hierarchical IRT models is to deliver more precise but biased item parameter estimates, compared to those obtained in nonhierarchical models. Previous research, however, points out the possibility that, in the context of the two-parameter logistic IRT model, the aforementioned tradeoff has not to be made. With a comprehensive simulation study, we provide an in-depth investigation into this possibility. The results show a superior performance, in terms of bias, RMSE and precision, of the hierarchical specifications compared to the nonhierarchical counterpart. Under certain conditions, the bias in the item parameter estimates is independent of the bias in the variance components. Moreover, we provide a bias correction procedure for item discrimination parameter estimates. In sum, we show that IRT models create a unique situation where the Bayesian hierarchical approach indeed yields parameter estimates that are not only more precise, but also more accurate, compared to nonhierarchical approaches. We discuss this beneficial behavior from both theoretical and applied point of views.
Borders, states, and armed conflicts in Europe and Northeast Asia since 1945: The moral hazard of great-power encroachments
Authors: Kramer Mark
Published: January 2024

This article discusses the significance of international borders in Europe and Northeast Asia during the Cold War (1945–1989) and after. Using the concept of ‘moral hazard’, the article examines what happens when great powers frequently violate the borders of neighboring countries without suffering adverse repercussions. Norms of sovereignty and territorial integrity are viable only if large countries are willing to uphold them most of the time. The Soviet Union used or threatened to use military force against East European countries on numerous occasions (1953, 1956, 1968, and 1980–1981) with impunity. The Russian Federation adopted a broadly similar policy toward neighboring countries that had been republics of the Soviet Union until 1991. Russian forces in Georgia, Moldova, Tajikistan, Belarus, and Ukraine served as instruments of Russian hegemony in those countries. Until 2014, Western governments made little or no effort to deter or counter Russian military encroachments in neighboring republics. By the principle of moral hazard, leaders in the Kremlin came to believe that they could act with a free hand in the former USSR.
Impact of Wiberg Patellar Type on Outcomes and Survival Following Cell-Based Cartilage Repair for Patellar Chondral Lesions at Midterm Follow-up
Authors: Retzky Julia S. , Thacher Ryan R. , Palhares Guilherme H. , Gomoll Andreas H. , Strickland Sabrina M.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Cell-based cartilage repair procedures of the patellofemoral joint have less reliable outcomes than those of the tibiofemoral joint. No previous studies have evaluated the influence of patellar shape on cell-based cartilage repair outcomes. Patellar dysplasia may predispose patients to worse outcomes after cell-based cartilage repair.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between Wiberg patellar type and outcomes after cell-based cartilage repair (autologous chondrocyte implantation or particulated juvenile allograft cartilage transplantation) for the treatment of patellar chondral lesions at a minimum 2-year follow-up. It was hypothesized that Wiberg classification of patellar shape would have no effect on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) or graft survival.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients undergoing autologous chondrocyte implantation or particulated juvenile allograft cartilage transplantation for full-thickness patellar chondral defects between 2016 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed after institutional review board approval. The change in PROMs, including International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Kujala, and Veterans RAND 12-item Health Survey Mental and Physical scores, from pre- to postoperatively and the percentage of patients who achieved the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for IKDC and Kujala scores were compared for the Wiberg type A versus Wiberg type B versus Wiberg type C groups. The log-rank test was used to evaluate for differences in survival between subgroups.

Results:

A total of 59 patients (63 knees) were included, with a mean age of 33.3 ± 8.6 years, median body mass index of 26.0 (IQR, 21.8-30.2), and median follow-up time of 3.5 years (IQR, 2.6-4.2 years). In total, 26 (41%) patellae were Wiberg type A, 29 (46%) were Wiberg type B, and 8 (13%) were Wiberg type C. There were no differences between Wiberg type A versus Wiberg type B versus Wiberg type C groups with respect to change in PROMs from pre- to postoperatively or the percentage of patients who achieved the MCID for IKDC or Kujala scores (P > .05 for all). There were no differences in survival between groups (P = .45).

Conclusion:

Wiberg patellar type has no effect on patient-reported outcomes or graft survival at midterm follow-up. Patellar dysplasia should not be seen as a contraindication for cell-based cartilage repair procedures.
Debugging in Computational Thinking: A Meta-analysis on the Effects of Interventions on Debugging Skills
Authors: Sun Chen , Yang Stephanie , Becker Betsy
Published: January 2024

Computational thinking (CT), an essential 21st century skill, incorporates key computer science concepts such as abstraction, algorithms, and debugging. Debugging is particularly underrepresented in the CT training literature. This multi-level meta-analysis focused on debugging as a core CT skill, and investigated the effects of various debugging interventions. Moderator analyses revealed which interventions were effective, in which situations, and for what kind of learner. A significant overall mean effect of debugging interventions ([Formula: see text] = 0.64, CI = (0.32, 0.96), p < .001), was found based on 62 effect sizes from 18 source articles. Significant between-studies variation indicated that true effects could range from −0.54 to 1.82. In addition, sensitivity analyses and checks on confounding provided further understandings of intervention features and their impacts. Interventions using enhanced debuggers and systematic instruction were particularly effective in fostering debugging skills. Debugging intervention effects varied by participant population and potentially by publication type. Moreover, debugging interventions had impact regardless of how debugging skills were measured, programming medium used, control-group type, and whether the study was randomized. Future studies should investigate the best practices for improving debugging abilities for whom and under what circumstances.
Gender During the Pandemic: Issues at Stake
Authors: Suneetha A.
Published: January 2024

The COVID pandemic exacerbated existing inequalities as well as those between researchers and the researched. This experiential note discusses the ethical dilemmas and practical difficulties that I as a feminist researcher and activist have encountered between 2020 and 2022. This was while in the process of my research as well as engagement with COVID-19-related advocacy work. I argue that, even as one was displaced from one’s status as a researcher, these skills were required in advocacy with various branches of the government. Formal research investigations involving fieldwork required that I attend to the needs of the ‘researched’ through humanitarian outreach and advocacy. Such a displacement of the identity of the researcher, I argue, points to the issues at stake in doing feminist research, even during ordinary times.
‘We Have Our Own Stories to Write, and We Will Write Them’: Defining Resilience with Aboriginal Young People
Authors: Smallwood Reakeeta , Usher Kim , Woods Cindy , Saunders Vicki , Jackson Debra
Published: January 2024

Colonization is understood as a determinant of health for Indigenous people globally. Understanding colonization through a lens of historical trauma offers new insights into the field of Aboriginal young peoples’ health and wellbeing. Grounded in the Indigenous research paradigm, this study conducted interviews with 15 Aboriginal young people living on Gamilaroi Country, New South Wales, Australia. Three stories are presented to explain how Aboriginal young people understand their resilience, strength and resistance as an integral component of historical trauma. Aboriginal young people identified the need to connect and to continue to draw strength from their ancestors and to be cognizant of the hope and strengths they have as Aboriginal people and describe how this strength can ensure Aboriginal culture is sustained for generations to come.
Transradial access embolization of carotid-cavernous fistulae: Case report
Authors: González Gómez Joaquín Fernando , Di Lizio-Miele Gabriela , Arias Rojas Braian Camilo , Sierra Vargas Paula Andrea
Published: January 2024

Carotid-Cavernous sinus fistula (CCF) represents a misdiagnosed condition with potential repercussion in functional, neurological, and social roles of patients with this disease. Earlier reports remark on the efficiency and safety of endovascular therapy with resolution of the symptoms were performed appropriately. We present a case of a male patient from a developing country, with gunshot wound head trauma history and short-term progressive functional and neurological impairment in the presence of intracranial hypertension and ocular symptoms who developed a large CFF, subsequently treated by transradial access embolization. We aim to describe the real-world experience in diagnosis and treatment of CCFs, emphasizing on the scope and outcomes of the endovascular treatment. This case supports worldwide experience, positioning endovascular therapy as an effective strategy in the resolution of CFFs, and the relevance of suspecting this disease in the presence of typical symptoms, even if they are rapidly progressive.
Slantwise disengagement: Explaining Facebook users’ acts beyond resistance/internalization of domination binary
Authors: Papa Venetia , Kouros Theodoros
Published: January 2024

This theoretical and empirical investigation builds upon the concept of ‘slantwise behavior’ to further complicate notions of the ‘digital disengagement’ of subjects within technological infrastructures such as Facebook. It has been previously suggested that the ubiquity of the data privacy paradox is the most common reason for disengagement practices. Our study contributes to this discussion by examining subjects’ disengagement on Social Network Sites (SNS). While numerous concepts concerning disconnection and disengagement from SNS have been conceptualized by media theorists, largely based on a binary construct of resistance or domination, our work proposes an alternative conceptualization of subjects’ disengagement. By employing a qualitative methodological approach and using 30 semi-structured interviews to capture subjects’ discursive patterns, we illustrate that disengagement on Facebook can be seen as a hybrid reaction and a complex phenomenon in which certain disconnection practices cannot be easily classified as resistance practices or as indications of the internalization of domination but rather are best understood as slantwise behaviors, that is, actions that may unintentionally lead to obfuscation.
Now they accept it, now they don’t: Acceptability judgements of nontypical multiword units in Russian as a native and a heritage language
Authors: Kessler Ruth , Perevozchikova Tatiana
Published: January 2024

Aims/objectives/research questions:

Heritage speakers have been shown to use multiword units, which merge structural elements of both their languages, which do not conform to the combinability patterns of the monolingual variety. However, it is not clear to what extent heritage speakers actually have the knowledge of the corresponding monolingual sequences. The present study on Russian heritage speakers in Germany addresses the question of whether heritage speakers have receptive knowledge of monolingual multiword units that they do not command in production.

Design/methodology/approach:

The study followes a mixed methods design by combining corpus and experimental methodology.

Data/analyses:

First, language production data of heritage speakers from two corpora were analysed for nontypical multiword units with prepositional phrases. In the second step, these nontypical multiword units as well as their typical monolingual equivalents served as test items in an acceptability judgement task performed by 53 Russian-German heritage speakers and 56 Russian native speakers.

Findings/conclusions:

The results show that heritage and native speakers rate nontypical multiword units as less acceptable than their monolingual equivalents. However, the acceptability of typical and the unacceptability of nontypical expressions were more salient for native speakers, whereas heritage speakers in many cases tended to equally accept typical and nontypical items. Acceptability ratings varied according to test items in both groups, but there was no overlap between nontypical multiword units most acceptable to monolinguals and those most acceptable to heritage speakers.

Originality:

Our paper applies an innovative mixed method approach in investigating the receptive knowledge of monoloigual multiword units in heritage speakers. Additionally, it is one of the first studies looking at the reactions of native spekaers to novel multiword units produced by heritage speakers.

Implications:

The findings support the idea of a unified multilingual construction, suggesting that heritage speakers do have some receptive knowledge of monolingual multiword units but this knowledge differs from that of monolingual speakers.
Whistleblower Memoirs: Deconstructing Data Consultants’ Insider Stories
Authors: Knorr Charlotte , Wolter Margitta , Pentzold Christian
Published: January 2024

Whistleblowers have been instrumental in revealing the massive investments in state-sponsored and corporate digital surveillance and disinformation. Their personal accounts of what went on behind the scenes are usually presented in popular books marketed as offering insider stories. By interrogating the recapitulations of veteran data consultants, our article is interested in the way in which whistleblowers configure their role and place themselves in the context of their story in terms of agency and accountability. We examine and compare three recollections: Edward Snowden’s Permanent Record, Christopher Wylie’s Mindf*ck, and Brittany Kaiser’s Targeted. Our analysis shows how these high-profile memoirs offer a look that is both intimate and distant. They at once promise to get close to and even behind what has escaped public scrutiny and in return try to dissociate themselves from their former trade. Their position of privileged precarity, which results from the casualization of digital labor, allows these data consultants to quickly become insiders while staying uncomfortable with many of the taken-for-granted ideological convictions and organizational orders. Rationalizing their involvement as disoriented diligence affords the whistleblowers the capacity to craft a story of enchantment, delusion, and subsequent awakening. Both their experiences and their position enable these disenthralled renegades to style themselves as honest moral arbiters in service of the public interest and brokers of exclusive knowledge.
Exploring the Representation of Women in Technical Roles at a South African Performing Arts Entity
Authors: Nkomo Lungisani , Saurombe Musawenkosi Donia
Published: January 2024

Low levels of female representation are found when it comes to technical roles within the South African performing arts industry despite improved numbers in the overall representation of females within the industry across different occupational categories. Employment in the core functions of the performing arts entities is therefore still predominantly male. The research aimed to explore the representation of women in a performing arts entity. The feminist, social dominance and patriarchy theories were used to conceptualize the research phenomena and interrogate the findings in this study. The research adopted a qualitative case study approach, using one-on-one in-depth interviews. The sample of participants included management and employees in the technical business unit, selected through convenience sampling and a complementary snowball sampling technique. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data, which engendered themes and sub-themes, substantiated by verbatim quotes from the interviews. Although the research findings indicated an unequal representation of females in technical roles and their absence in management positions within the entity, female presence was found to enhance teamwork and diverse views, which consequently improved team performance. The study found that barriers to female representation include unequal gender representation, the nature of work, and the work-life balance. The study established policy recommendations for the industry, including flexible-hour strategies and childcare facilities, among others.
A Tale of 2 Morbid Complications in a Patient With Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Poursadrolah Sayna , Salmasi Shiva , Bagheri Micheal
Published: January 2024

A 66-year-old female was found hypotensive in ventricular tachycardia (V-tach). Workup confirmed septic shock and takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) with left ventricular (LV) thrombus. Despite the initiation of anticoagulation therapy, she developed an embolic stroke on day 14. Malignant ventricular arrhythmia and LV thrombosis are rare complications of TCM. However, there is no specific guideline regarding prophylactic anticoagulation.
Should Government Agencies Be Trusted? Developing Students’ Civic Narrative Competence Through Social Science Education
Authors: Johansson Patrik , Sandahl Johan
Published: January 2024

Democratic school systems are expected to equip students with the knowledge, abilities, and attitudes needed for life as citizens, particularly through social science education. Disciplinary knowledge, derived from the academic counterparts to school subjects, is essential in developing these skills. However, research has also emphasized the importance of life-world perspectives, where students’ experiences are included and taken seriously in teaching. This study suggests that the theory of (civic) narrative competence can function as a bridge between the disciplinary domain and the life-world domain in its focus on how students’ civic reasoning can be developed through teaching. The article uses narrative theory to explore how the students’ civic narratives changed and became more nuanced after a teaching segment focusing on social and political trust. In the article, we demonstrate how the students’ personal experiences colored their interpretations and orientations before the teaching segment and how their civic narratives were developed through the implemented teaching, which provided them with concepts, a theoretical model, and empirical examples. We found that the students did not discard previous perceptions after the teaching segment, but integrated them into their new knowledge and orientations, thus integrating the life-world and disciplinary domains.
Evaluating a vertical nurse-led service in the integration of palliative care in a tertiary academic hospital
Authors: Krause Rene , Gwyther Liz , Olivier Jill
Published: January 2024

Background:

Groote Schuur Hospital is a large Academic Hospital in South Africa that is in the process of integrating palliative care (PC) via a vertical nurse-led doctor-supported (VNLDS) service that was initially established to deliver clinical care. PC integration should occur across multiple dimensions and may result in variable degrees of integration between levels of the healthcare system. This research evaluates the VNLDS through a theory-driven evaluation to describe how the service affected integration.

Methods:

A mixed-method sequential design consisting of a narrative literature review on the theory of integration and PC, retrospective quantitative data from a PC service delivery database, qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and document analyses. It was structured in three phases which assisted in confirming and expanding the data. Statistical analyses, deductive thematic coding and documentary analyses were conducted according to the conceptual framework of PC integration.

Results:

The PC integration process was facilitated in the following ways: (i) the service provided good clinical PC; (ii) it was able to integrate on a professional level into specific diseases, such as cancer but not in all diseases; (iii) developing organizational structures within the service and (iv) the observed benefit of good clinical care increased the value stakeholders assigned to PC, thereby driving the adoption of PC. However, there are still clinicians who do not refer to PC services. This gap in referral may be grounded in assumptions and misconceptions about PC, especially at the organizational level.

Discussion:

Observed PC service delivery is core to integrating PC across the healthcare system because it challenges normative barriers. However, the VNLDS could not achieve integration in leadership and governance, education and hospital-wide guidelines and policies. Whole system integration, foregrounding organizational commitment to PC excellence, is core to integrating PC.

Conclusion:

The VNLDS service has effectively linked PC in specific disease profiles and normalized the PC approach where healthcare workers observed the service. These integrational gaps may be grounded in assumptions and misconceptions about PC, especially at the organizational level.
The Role of Varied Sonographic Criteria for Predicting Treatment and Prognosis of Antenatal Hydronephrosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Jafari Kosar , Abedi Seyed Mohammad , Jafari Sarouei Mahboubeh , Salehpour Seyedeh Mahsa , Hadinezhad Makrani Atekeh , Taji Marziyeh , Mohammadjafari Hamid
Published: January 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to compare the Society of Fetal Urology (SFU) guidelines, the anteroposterior pelvic diameter (APD), and the urinary tract dilation (UTD) classification criteria for predicting the prognosis of antenatal hydronephrosis (AH).

Materials and Methods:

This was a retrospective analysis of the relationship among the three classification criteria and their contribution to the diagnosis and prognosis of possible AH in a cohort of neonates.

Results:

This study was a retrospective review of 290 neonates. The mean age was 16.4 ± 9.0 days, and 33% of the study population comprised female babies. An image review demonstrated that 35% of the patients had severe vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), 22% exhibited severe obstruction, 40% had transient hydronephrosis, and 9% required surgery. The antenatal SFU grading criteria demonstrated a significant relationship with severe obstruction, and the postnatal SFU grading was related to the severity of VUR. The highest sensitivity for the presence of VUR for surgical intervention was obtained for prenatal SFU-1 (100%). The highest specificity was for prenatal SFU-4 (96%) for the presence of VUR, prenatal SFU-4 (99%), and postnatal SFU-4 (94%) for surgical intervention.

Conclusion:

No reliable sonographic findings were found to predict VUR or severe ureteropelvic junction obstruction. The SFU grading during the postnatal period may predict VUR with low sensitivity and specificity. However, all three classification criteria contributed to the evaluation of the need for treatment in this cohort.
Small noncoding RNAs and sperm nuclear basic proteins reflect the environmental impact on germ cells
Authors: Ferrero Giulio , Festa Rosaria , Follia Laura , Lettieri Gennaro , Tarallo Sonia , Notari Tiziana , Giarra Antonella , Marinaro Carmela , Pardini Barbara , Marano Alessandra , Piaggeschi Giulia , Di Battista Carla , Trifuoggi Marco , Piscopo Marina , Montano Luigi , Naccarati Alessio
Published: January 2024

Background

Molecular techniques can complement conventional spermiogram analyses to provide new information on the fertilizing potential of spermatozoa and to identify early alterations due to environmental pollution.

Methods

Here, we present a multilevel molecular profiling by small RNA sequencing and sperm nuclear basic protein analysis of male germ cells from 33 healthy young subjects residing in low and high-polluted areas.

Results

Although sperm motility and sperm concentration were comparable between samples from the two sites, those from the high-pollution area had a higher concentration of immature/immune cells, a lower protamine/histone ratio, a reduced ability of sperm nuclear basic proteins to protect DNA from oxidative damage, and an altered copper/zinc ratio in sperm. Sperm levels of 32 microRNAs involved in intraflagellar transport, oxidative stress response, and spermatogenesis were different between the two areas. In parallel, a decrease of Piwi-interacting RNA levels was observed in samples from the high-polluted area.

Conclusions

This comprehensive analysis provides new insights into pollution-driven epigenetic alterations in sperm not detectable by spermiogram.

Graphical Abstract
Defense Responses of Different Rice Varieties Affect Growth Performance and Food Utilization of Cnaphalocrocis medinalis Larvae
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyu , Xu Hongxing , Yang Yajun , Sun Tianyi , Ullah Farman , Zhu Pingyang , Lu Yanhui , Huang Jianlei , Wang Zhengliang , Lu Zhongxian , Guo Jiawen
Published: January 2024

Rice leaf folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenée), is one of the most serious pests on rice. At present, chemical control is the main method for controlling this pest. However, the indiscriminate use of chemical insecticides has non-target effects and may cause environmental pollution. Besides, leaf curling behavior by C. medinalis may indirectly reduce the efficacy of chemical spray. Therefore, it is crucial to cultivate efficient rice varieties resistant to this pest. Previous studies have found that three different rice varieties, Zhongzao39 (ZZ39), Xiushui134 (XS134), and Yongyou1540 (YY1540), had varying degrees of infestation by C. medinalis. However, it is currently unclear whether the reason for this difference is related to the difference in defense ability of the three rice varieties against the infestation of C. medinalis. To explore this issue, the current study investigated the effects of three rice varieties on the growth performance and food utilization capability of the 4th instar C. medinalis. Further, it elucidated the differences in defense responses among different rice varieties based on the differences in leaf physiological and biochemical indicators and their impact on population occurrence. The results showed that the larval survival rate was the lowest, and the development period was significantly prolonged after feeding on YY1540. This was not related to the differences in leaf wax, pigments, and nutritional components among the three rice varieties nor to the feeding preferences of the larvae. The rate of superoxide anion production, hydrogen peroxide content, and the activity of three protective enzymes were negatively correlated with larval survival rate, and they all showed the highest in YY1540 leaves. Compared to other tested varieties, although the larvae feeding on YY1540 had higher conversion efficiency of ingested food and lower relative consumption rate, their relative growth was faster, indicating stronger food utilization capability. However, they had a lower accumulation of protein. This suggests that different rice varieties had different levels of oxidative stress after infestation by C. medinalis. The defense response of YY1540 was more intense, which was not conducive to the development of the larvae population. These results will provide new insights into the interaction mechanism between different rice varieties and C. medinalis and provide a theoretical basis for cultivating rice varieties resistant to this pest.
Bioindication for Ecosystem Regeneration towards Natural conditions: the BERN data base and BERN model
Authors: Schlutow Angela , Kraft Philipp , Scheuschner Thomas , Schlutow Mark , Schröder Winfried
Published: January 2024

The primary task of the BERN database is to document reference data on typical site parameters for the occurrence of plant communities in which their diagnostic species are in competitive equilibrium with each other and in homeostatic equilibrium with the site factors. Common approaches for the creation of a site-plant database such as ordination or bioindication based on individual species like PROPS or MultiMOVE model are of limited use because it is not possible to determine the potential occurrence of a plant species on the basis of site factors, since the competitive influences cannot be determined in advance according to current knowledge. Therefore, the BERN database takes into account the structure of plant communities with the abundance and dominance of species in the competitive equilibrium of plant communities as a reference for determining anthropogenically induced changes. Qualitative knowledge on the relationship between site types and vegetation communities is widely available, as can be seen from the extensive phytosociological publications. For this purpose, synoptic tables and their location descriptions of around 50,000 relevés were evaluated. The BERN database includes currently 887 central European plant communities and links to their diagnostically defining species composition. The database defines the niche of 2210 central European plant species for the soil properties pH, base saturation, carbon to nitrogen ratio, and wetness index and the climatic properties continentality, length of vegetation period, solar radiation and climatic water balance. The BERN model recombines the realised species niches that mainly form the competitively homeostatic structure of a plant community in order to determine the fundamental multifactorial niche of this community. The BERN database contains mainly historical recordings of more or less undisturbed sites. The BERN model (Bioindication for Ecosystem Regeneration towards Natural conditions) as an application module of the BERN database was developed to integrate ecological cause-effect relationships into studies on environmental status assessment and forecasting. The BERN database now has been published for the first time. The methodology of creating the BERN database and the BERN model are documented and applications are demonstrated with examples. The freely available database should invite you to supplement and modify it.