bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell contacts and pericellular matrix in the Xenopus gastrula chordamesoderm
Authors: Luu Olivia , Barua Debanjan , Winklbauer Rudolf
Published: February 2024

Convergent extension of the chordamesoderm is the best-examined gastrulation movement in Xenopus. Here we study general features of cell-cell contacts in this tissue by combining depletion of adhesion factors C-cadherin, Syndecan-4, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid, the analysis of respective contact width spectra and contact angles, and La3+ staining of the pericellular matrix. We provide evidence that like in other gastrula tissues, cell-cell adhesion in the chordamesoderm is largely mediated by different types of pericellular matrix. Specific glycocalyx structures previously identified in Xenopus gastrula tissues are absent in chordamesoderm but other contact types like 10–20 nm wide La3+ stained structures are present instead. Knockdown of any of the adhesion factors reduces the abundance of cell contacts but not the average relative adhesiveness of the remaining ones: a decrease of adhesiveness at low contact widths is compensated by an increase of contact widths and an increase of adhesiveness proportional to width. From the adhesiveness-width relationship, we derive a model of chordamesoderm cell adhesion that involves the interdigitation of distinct pericellular matrix units. Quantitative description of pericellular matrix deployment suggests that reduced contact abundance upon adhesion factor depletion is correlated with excessive accumulation of matrix material in non-adhesive gaps and the loss of some contact types.
Time to tuberculosis development and its predictors among HIV-positive patients: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ajema Abraham Teka , Simachew Yilkal , Meshesha Meiraf Daniel , Gari Taye
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To assess the incidence and predictors of time to Tuberculosis (TB) development among Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive patients attending follow-up care in health facilities of Hawassa, Ethiopia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study from April 1–30, 2023. A total of 422 participants were selected using a simple random sampling method. Data was collected from the medical records of patients enrolled between January 1, 2018 –December 31, 2022, using the Kobo toolbox. We used Statistical Package for Social Studies (SPSS) version 26.0 for data analysis. To estimate the duration of TB-free survival, we applied the Kaplan-Meier survival function and fitted Cox proportional hazard models to identify the predictors of time to TB development. Adjusted hazard ratios (AHR) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated and statistical significance was declared at a P-value of 0.05.

Results

The overall incidence rate of TB among HIV-positive patients was 6.26 (95% CI: 4.79–8.17) per 100 person-years (PYs). Patients who did not complete TB Preventive Therapy (TPT) were more likely to have TB than those who did (AHR = 6.2, 95% CI: 2.34–16.34). In comparison to those who began antiretroviral therapy (ART) within a week, those who began after a week of linkage had a lower risk of TB development (AHR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.21–0.89). Patients who received ART for six to twelve months (AHR = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.05–0.61) and for twelve months or longer (AHR = 0.004, 95% CI: 0.001–0.02) exhibited a decreased risk of TB development in comparison to those who had ART for less than six months.

Conclusion

The incidence of TB among HIV-positive patients is still high. To alleviate this burden, special attention should be given to regimen optimization and provision of adherence support for better completion of TPT, sufficient patient preparation, thorough clinical evaluation for major (Opportunistic Infections) OIs prior to starting ART, and ensuring retention on ART.
Therapeutic interventions on human breast cancer xenografts promote systemic dissemination of oncogenes
Authors: Raghuram Gorantla V. , Pal Kavita , Sriram Gaurav , Khan Afzal , Joshi Ruchi , Jadhav Vishalkumar , Shinde Sushma , Shaikh Alfina , Rane Bhagyeshri , Kangne Harshada , Mittra Indraneel
Published: February 2024

Metastatic dissemination following successful treatment of the primary tumour remains a common cause of death. There is mounting evidence that therapeutic interventions themselves may promote development of metastatic disease. We earlier reported that cell-free chromatin particles (cfChPs) released from dying cancer cells are potentially oncogenic. Based on this observation we hypothesized that therapeutic interventions may lead to the release of cfChPs from therapy induced dying cancer cells which could be carried via the blood stream to distant organs to transform healthy cells into new cancers that would masquerade as metastasis. To test this hypothesis, we generated xenografts of MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells in severe combined immune-deficient mice, and using immuno-fluorescence and FISH analysis looked for cfChPs in their brain cells. We detected multiple human DNA signals representing cfChPs in nuclei of brain cells of mice which co-localized with eight human onco-proteins. No intact MDA-MB-231 cells were detected. The number of co-localizing human DNA and human c-Myc signals increased dramatically following treatment with chemotherapy, localized radiotherapy or surgery, which could be prevented by concurrent treatment with three different cfChPs deactivating agents. These results suggest that therapeutic interventions lead to the release cfChPs from therapy induced dying cancer cells carrying oncogenes and are transported via the blood stream to brain cells to potentially transform them to generate new cancers that would appear as metastases. cfChPs induced metastatic spread of cancer is preventable by concurrent treatment with agents that deactivate cfChPs.
Comprehensive analysis of single cell and bulk data develops a promising prognostic signature for improving immunotherapy responses in ovarian cancer
Authors: Ding Huanfei , Hu Bowen , Guo Ruixia
Published: February 2024

The tumor heterogeneity is an important cause of clinical therapy failure and yields distinct prognosis in ovarian cancer (OV). Using the advantages of integrated single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and bulk data to decode tumor heterogeneity remains largely unexplored. Four public datasets were enrolled in this study, including E-MTAB-8107, TCGA-OV, GSE63885, and GSE26193 cohorts. Random forest algorithm was employed to construct a multi-gene prognostic panel and further evaluated by receiver operator characteristic (ROC), calibration curve, and Cox regression. Subsequently, molecular characteristics were deciphered, and treatments strategies were explored to deliver precise therapy. The landscape of cell subpopulations and functional characteristics, as well as the dynamic of macrophage cells were detailly depicted at single cell level, and then screened prognostic candidate genes. Based on the expression of candidate genes, a stable and robust cell characterized gene associated prognosis signature (CCIS) was developed, which harbored excellent performance at prognosis assessment and patient stratification. The ROC and calibration curves, and Cox regression analysis elucidated CCIS could serve as serve as an independent factor for predicting prognosis. Moreover, a promising clinical tool nomogram was also constructed according to stage and CCIS. Through comprehensive investigations, patients in low-risk group were charactered by favorable prognosis, elevated genomic variations, higher immune cell infiltrations, and superior antigen presentation. For individualized treatment, patients in low-risk group were inclined to better immunotherapy responses. This study dissected tumor heterogeneity and afforded a promising prognostic signature, which was conducive to facilitating clinical outcomes for patients with OV.
Allogeneic limbo-deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (Limbo-DALK)—A novel surgical technique in corneal stromal disease and limbal stem cell deficiency
Authors: Schöneberger Verena , Tahmaz Volkan , Matthaei Mario , Roters Sigrid , Schlereth Simona L. , Schaub Friederike , Cursiefen Claus , Bachmann Björn O.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To describe a novel corneal surgical technique combining Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) with grafting of allogeneic limbus (Limbo-DALK) for the treatment of eyes with corneal stromal pathology and limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD).

Methods

Clinical records of six Limbo-DALKs performed in five patients diagnosed with LSCD and corneal stromal pathology requiring keratoplasty were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were diagnosed with LSCD due to various pathologies including thermal and chemical burns, congenital aniridia or chronic inflammatory ocular surface disease. Parameters analysed included demographics, diagnoses, clinical history, thickness measurements using anterior segment OCT, visual acuity, and epithelial status. Regular follow-up visits were scheduled at 6 weeks as well as 3, 6, 9, and 12 and 18 months postoperatively. Main outcome measures were time to graft epithelialisation and the occurrence of corneal endothelial decompensation.

Results

Two grafts showed complete epithelial closure at 2 days, two at 14 days. In one eye, complete epithelial closure was not achieved after the first Limbo-DALK, but was achieved one month after the second Limbo-DALK. No endothelial decompensation occurred except in one patient with silicone oil associated keratopathy. Endothelial graft rejection was not observed in any of the grafts.

Conclusion

Based on the data from this pilot series, limbo-DALK appears to be a viable surgical approach for eyes with severe LSCD and corneal stromal pathology, suitable for emergency situations (e.g. corneal ulceration with impending corneal perforation), while minimising the risk of corneal endothelial decompensation.
Plutarch’s Parallel Lives and the Greek Christian Fathers of the 2nd Century, with special attention to Clement of Alexandria
Authors: Pérez-Jiménez Aurelio
Published: February 2024

It is well known the Plutarch’s influence on the Christian thought of the imperial era, especially in authors such as Clement of Alexandria, Origen, Eusebius of Caesarea, the three Capadocian Fathers, John Chrysosthomos, Theodoretus, Cyrillus of Alexandria, or Synesius of Cyrene, who not only cite (with the exception of Clement) him, but even, without explicit citing, are directly inspired by some Plutarch’s theological and ethical treatises. In this sense, the use of the Moralia by Greek Christian Apologists and other Fathers of the Church has received sufficient attention from modern bibliography, especially in the last decades of the 20th Century and so far in the 21st Century. Less researched has been, however, the imprint left by the Parallel Lives on the Greek Christian authors of the first five centuries of our Age. My article will focus on this aspect of Plutarch’s reception, although restricted to the 2nd century AD. The first Section will provide an overview (based on modern literature about this topic and on the reading of Christian texts) of the importance of references in Ancient Christian Literature to the characters of Plutarch’s Lives or to specific passages in them. In the first and second Sections I will focus on the possible references to this Plutarch’s work in the 2nd Century apologists, Tatian, Athenagoras and Theophilus (first Section), and in Clement of Alexandria (second Section).
On not seeing like a state: rethinking ancient Honduras (The Gordon Childe Lecture for 2023)
Authors: Joyce Rosemary A.
Published: February 2024

This article exemplifies the way that moving from perspectives on inequality to questions of the exercise of freedom can change archaeological interpretation. Using a case study from Honduras, where conventional models suggest that social evolution stagnated at the level of chiefdoms, the article draws on recent advances in theories of anarchic social organisation to rethink the data relating to occupation during the equivalent of the Maya Classic and Terminal Classic periods (c. 500–1000 ad). Settlement pattern data from northern Honduras have previously been interpreted as exemplifying heterarchy, understood as the expression of multiple overlapping hierarchies, in distinct aspects of social life. Most settlements conform to the needs of farming, with small towns that are roughly evenly spaced providing opportunities for rural populations to participate in seasonal ceremonies, ball games and possibly markets. Considering the structuring role of freedom to move, to refuse commands and to create new forms of social life enables understanding underlying dynamics that the heterarchy model was missing. It allows for an account of the growth and decline of settlements as outcomes of strategies by leading families and refusal of these by the broader population. Central to these strategies are the roles of visual media, specifically art works, through which social values were created among this politically anarchic population.
Catbirds and crabholes: the 2023 field season at Marco Gonzalez, Belize
Authors: Kratimenos Panos , Graham Elizabeth , Aimers James J. , Wrobel Gabriel , Marshall Aubree , LaLonde Rylee
Published: February 2024

After lengthy delays owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, excavations at the Precolumbian Maya site of Marco Gonzalez in Belize resumed in summer 2023. This season represented the in-field commencement of a new multi-institutional collaboration. The implementation of novel approaches and methods included the incorporation of photogrammetry and 3D modelling as a first-line documentation method, a heightened emphasis on the importance of bioarchaeology as a source for constructing narratives about past life at Marco Gonzalez (through the ‘osteobiographical’ approach) and more extensive excavations than had been possible in previous seasons. These approaches and methods proved fruitful, with excavations uncovering seven new burials, as well as a particularly intriguing cache of what resembled grave goods without an associated individual. Moreover, excavations during this field season provided tantalising new evidence as to the scope of the extensive trade and exchange network within which Marco Gonzalez was a vital node, as well as new insights into the mechanics of the industrial-scale salt processing that was both central to life at the site for several centuries during the Late Classic period and seemingly integral to the formation of highly fertile anthropogenic soils (Maya Dark Earths) that are crucially important to a nuanced understanding of the long-term environmental impact of human activity.
Evaluating wellbeing with participants in archaeology at the National Trust
Authors: Wolferstan Sarah
Published: February 2024

Wellbeing has not been at the core of the practice of public archaeology in the UK. Instead it is a niche practice focusing on specific therapeutic needs. The idea of wellbeing as a policy objective at a more strategic level has, however, been gaining ground across the arts, cultural heritage and archaeological sectors. The three-month secondment at UCL that is the focus of this piece took place at the end of 2021 and evaluated participatory archaeology in order to understand the outcomes of archaeological activities involving volunteers at the National Trust. This fitted with the Trust archaeologists’ aspirations to integrate wellbeing evaluations into their participatory projects. While mental health is a core focus of wellbeing in the heritage agenda writ large, National Trust priorities determined that it was not the focus of this project. Rather, the aim was to help the Trust build an evidence base for reflective practice to inform future programmes and to support the development of a bespoke evaluation framework and strategy for participatory archaeology for its volunteers and visitors. Considerable work had already been undertaken by the Trust staff to inform them about wellbeing, public benefit, nature connection and evaluation, although consultation with their archaeologists and partners in the sector revealed organisational needs for strategic guidance on evaluating participation in archaeology.
Formación posgradual en Psicología Organizacional y del trabajo
Authors: Gómez Rada Carlos Alberto
Published: February 2024

El presente capítulo tiene por objetivo hacer una delimitación del campo de la psicología organizacional y del trabajo (POT), clarificar su objetivo de estudio, sus fronteras y la diferenciación entre lo disciplinar y el rol profesional. Así mismo, se hará un examen de las tendencias de formación posgradual en el campo, las necesidades en los contextos reales en los que se aplica, particularmente en Colombia y, finalmente, se analizarán las competencias requeridas tanto a nivel disciplinar como en el ejercicio profesional; todo lo anterior, desde una perspectiva analítica, crítica y reflexiva.
Who is our friend and who is our enemy? The enregisterment of tribalising digital discourse during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hua Zhu , Wei Li
Published: February 2024

This study demonstrates how tribalism and nationalism, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, have given rise to the enregisterment of a cultural discursive practice – dui (怼) – on Chinese social media. Based on a sample of social media posts collected through a combination of ‘noticing’ and systematic data scanning and archiving over a month, our analysis shows that dui shifted from a discursive practice of friendly teasing, a specific function that underpinned its rise of popularity prior to the onset of the pandemic, to an oppositional discursive practice characterised by wrangling, words of violence and a conversationalised journalistic discourse of refuting. We argue that COVID-19 has heightened Chinese netizens’ sensitivities towards China’s perceived friends and enemies. This politicisation, together with the associated traditional discourses of national pride and humiliation, contributed to the emergence of dui as a tribalising discourse, which in turn has further destabilised and polarised the user community on Chinese social media and beyond. The study illustrates the mutually constitutive nature of the enregisterment of discursive practices and social relationships and the importance of bringing together discourse analytical and socio-cultural perspectives in analytical terms.
The Impact of Environmental Regulation on Technological Innovation of Enterprises: Based on Empirical Evidences of the Implementation of Pollution Charges in China
Authors: Wang Yuxing , Ye Wenhui , Wang Bichun
Published: February 2024

Environmental protection is closely related to high-quality economic developments. Based on the matching of micro-databases from 2000 to 2008, this study used the “Regulations on the Collection and Use of Pollution Fees” policy implemented in China in 2003 as the exogenous impact to construct the intensity Difference in Differences model in order to investigate the effects of pollutant discharge fee on technological innovation of enterprises and the underlying mechanisms. The results showed that governmental environmental regulations significantly improved the level of technological innovation of enterprises, and the conclusion was still valid after a series of robustness tests. The results of the parallel trend verified the rationality of the differential setting and the dynamic effects showed that the pollutant discharge fees had a continuous promoting effect on the technological innovation of enterprises. The results of the placebo tests rejected the original hypothesis of the mistaken model. The mechanism verifications revealed that the strengthening of environmental regulation by the government acted on the innovation level of enterprises through the two mechanisms, i.e., the promotion of enterprises’ fixed asset investments and government subsidies, and finally improved the enterprises’ technological innovation levels.
Effect of nano-TiO2 on physical and rheological properties of asphalt cement
Authors: Mohammed Ahmed Mahir , Abed Alaa H.
Published: February 2024

In recent years, nano-modified asphalt has gained significant attraction from researchers in the design of asphalt pavement fields. The recently discovered Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2) are among the most exciting and promising nanomaterials. This study examines the effect of 1, 3, 5, and 7% of nano-TiO2 by weight of asphalt on some of its rheological and hardened properties. The experimental study included physical and rheological properties. The asphalt penetration, softening point, ductility, and rotational viscometer tests indicate that 5% nano-TiO2 is the ideal amount to be added to bitumen as a modifier. The study of the rotating viscosity test showed that the addition of nano-TiO2 helped to increase viscosity and lessen bituminous sensitivity. Rutting factor in terms of G*/sin δ indicated the addition of 3 to 7% of nano-TiO2 increased the rutting resistance of asphalt against higher temperatures and promoted performance grade by about one grade at 3% and two grades at a range of 5–7% this suggests that nano-TiO2 increased the stiffness of the asphalt and leading to enhance the rutting performance of asphalt. While fatigue parameter, G*.sin δ shows that as nanocontent increases, higher stiffness at 5 and 7% of TiO2 content leads to an increase in complex modulus and a decrease in fatigue parameter. Higher creep stiffness and higher m-values were noted at low temperatures as nano increases in asphalt binder, increasing stiffness and decreasing the m-value at −6 and 12°C. As a result, using 5% nano-TiO2 will improve asphalt’s physical properties and enhance asphalt anit-rutting and fatigue resistance.
A fast convergent solution of wave propagation for multilayer inhomogeneous cylindrical dielectric waveguides using a semianalytical method
Authors: Weng Qianru
Published: February 2024

This paper presents an accurate and efficient semianalytical method based on the Galerkin procedure for solving electromagnetic wave propagation problems in multilayer inhomogeneous cylindrical dielectric waveguides. The method represents the field in each inhomogeneous layer by a linear combination of eigenfunctions with unknown coefficients, which are expressed using the inner products of a series of basis functions, following the Galerkin procedure. The continuity of the field and its radial derivative is enforced at the interface between adjacent layers. By applying this procedure to all inhomogeneous layers, the Helmholtz equations are transformed into linear algebraic equations with expanded coefficients in matrix form, allowing the complicated wave propagation problem in a multilayer inhomogeneous waveguide to be solved as a matrix eigenvalue problem. The method is validated by providing detailed propagation characteristics for various multilayer inhomogeneous cylinders with different permittivity profiles. The accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method are demonstrated through comparisons with results obtained using other numerical techniques.
Design of a dual-band wearable flexible MIMO antenna system for ISM band applications
Authors: Yang Lingsheng , Sun Yuhan , Zhang Jiaru , Xie Yizhuang
Published: February 2024

This article proposes a dual-band (2.4/5.8 GHz) wearable MIMO antenna system that can be applied to the ISM band. The antenna element uses an improved coplanar waveguide feeding structure. The four-element antenna system achieves high isolation between antenna elements through the self-decoupling structure of the antenna element and the orthogonal placement. The use of a floating ground structure effectively suppresses back radiation. Through the combination of coplanar waveguide feeding and floating ground, the antenna not only has a low profile but also improves the front-to-back ratio of antenna radiation, reducing the SAR value. The antenna also uses felt as a flexible dielectric substrate and conductive cloth as a radiation element, making the antenna flexible.
Manganese and copper-coated nickel oxide nanoparticles synthesized from Carica papaya leaf extract induce antimicrobial activity and breast cancer cell death by triggering mitochondrial caspases and p53
Authors: Alzahrani Badr , Elderdery Abozer Y. , Alsrhani Abdullah , Alzerwi Nasser A. N. , Althobiti Maryam Musleh , Rayzah Musaed , Idrees Bandar , Elkhalifa Ahmed M. E. , Alabdulsalam Abdulrahim A. , Alsultan Afnan , Bakhsh Ebtisam , ALSuhaymi Naif , Kumar Suresh S. , Mok Pooi Ling
Published: February 2024

In the present work, manganese–copper co-infused nickel oxide nanoparticles (MnCu co-doped NiO NPs) were formulated via a green process using Carica papaya extract. The MnCu co-doped NiO NPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–Vis, Fourier transform infrared, field emission scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and photoluminescence (PL) spectrum. The XRD pattern demonstrated that synthesized MnCu co-doped NiO NPs exhibit cubic structure. On the PL spectrum, various surface defects were identified. MnCu co-doped NiO NPs exhibited ferromagnetic properties at 37°C. The antimicrobial activity of green synthesis MnCu co-doped NiO NPs against human pathogens (Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, Shigella dysenteriae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and Candida albicans as fungal strains were demonstrated. The MnCu co-doped NiO NPs treatment considerably reduced MDA-MB-231 cell viability while not disturbing HBL-100 cell viability. Different fluorescent staining analyses revealed that MnCu co-doped NiO NPs induced nuclear and mitochondrial damage to improve free radical production, altering mitochondrial membrane protein potential, which led to apoptotic cell death in MDA-MB-231 cells. The MnCu co-doped NiO NP treatment enhanced pro-apoptotic protein expression and inhibited the cell cycle at the S phase in MDA-MB-231 cells. This makes it easy, cheap, and environmentally friendly to make MnCu co-doped NiO NPs using C. papaya extract, which has excellent antimicrobial properties.
Short-term hygro-mechanical behaviour of lime wood (Tilia cordata) in principal anatomical directions
Authors: Konopka Daniel , Grohmann Benjamin , Gecks Jens , Scheiding Wolfram , Kaliske Michael
Published: February 2024

The hygroscopic and moisture-dependent mechanical characteristics of small-leaved lime wood (Tilia cordata) were investigated experimentally. This study includes sorption, swelling and shrinkage experiments, as well as tension and compression tests in the three principal anatomical directions at four relative humidity levels. Four sample groups from trees of three different locations in Germany were used. The findings are comparable to those of earlier studies. The hygro-expansion anisotropy is relatively small. Young’s moduli at tension/compression decreased by about 52 %/64 % in radial, 19 %/48 % in tangential and 16 %/58 % in longitudinal direction for an increase of moisture content from 10 % (65 % RH) to 20 % (95 % RH). Tension strengths/compression yield stresses decreased by about 25 %/45 % in radial, 9 %/42 % in tangential, and 32 % (compression) in longitudinal direction, respectively. These parameters increased with an increasing density. Based on the mechanical tests, Young’s modulus, tension strength and compression yield stress were derived as density- and moisture-dependent material model parameters. Shear modulus and shear strength were estimated by a theoretical approach. The experimental and modelling study was accompanied by a literature survey on characteristics of lime wood relevant for hygro-mechanical material modelling.
Pain characteristics and imagery ability in patients with familial Mediterranean fever
Authors: Alikaj Albina , Dilek Burcu , Büyükaslan Ahsen , Uğurlu Serdal
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Assessing imagery ability could be important for clinicians to understand or speculate on the limit of a patient’s physical ability in chronic pain conditions. We aimed to assess imagery ability that is potentially affected in patients with Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF). In addition, pain characteristics and associational factors between pain and imagery abilities were examined.

Methods

Patients with FMF group (n=30) and control group (n=30) were included into the study. Movement Imagery Questionnaire-3 (MIQ-3) was questioned in both groups to assess imagery ability. McGill Pain Questionnaire Form (MPQ) and Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) were used to assess pain.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference in all sub-scores of the MIQ-3 imagery levels between FMF and the control group (p<0.05). Mean value for PCS was 23.27 ± 12.52 in which 13 (43.3 %) of the patients had higher scores than 30 indicating catastrophic thoughts.

Conclusions

It was determined that the imagery scores of the patients with FMF were lower than the control group. Patients who had catastrophic thoughts showed more scores in IVI scores indicating that the attention processes of these patients to their bodies might be affected. Further large-scale, long-term, prospective, randomized-controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Changes in South-American Fiscal Rules in a Post-Pandemic Scenario: A Case-By-Case Analysis
Authors: Lochagin Gabriel Loretto
Published: February 2024

Public finances have been extensively affected by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures enacted to mitigate them. In South America, have these effects been permanent, or were fiscal rules solid enough to allow for flexibility and a later return to normality? The hypothesis in this paper is that Covid had a significant impact on the fiscal institutions of countries with previous difficulties in using norms as stabilization tools for public finance, but had only temporary effects for countries with a stronger tradition of implementing fiscal rules more effectively. The text is structured as follows: in the first part, a general panorama of the creation of fiscal rules in South America is presented to offer comparison patterns with their post-pandemic evolution. Secondly, a description of the possible structures of fiscal rules is analyzed, and these categories will be applied to the South American case. In the third and last part, the types of fiscal rules are classified according to each country, as well as the transformations observed after the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the paper will offer a consolidated approach to changes in fiscal rules in the region.
Processing, microstructural characterization, and mechanical properties of deep cryogenically treated steels and alloys – overview
Authors: Sonar Tushar , Ivanov Mikhail , Xu Jinyang , Cheepu Muralimohan , Prokop-Strzelczyńska Karolina , Rajendran Chinnasamy , Thirumalaikumarasamy Duraisamy , Ragu Nathan Seerangan , Parasuraman Prabhuraj , Balasubramanian Visvalingam , Shcherbakov Igor
Published: February 2024

Deep cryogenic treatment (DCT), a technique of deep subzero processing, is utilized after quenching and well preceding tempering. In DCT, the materials are subjected to a soaking period of typically 24 h at a temperature of −196 °C. The optimal soaking period varies depending on the material to be cryotreated. The microstructural characteristics and mechanical properties of ferrous and nonferrous materials are significantly enhanced using DCT resulting in improved durability and functional performance of the mechanical components. The DCT is generally performed on tool steel, stainless steel, aluminum alloys, and magnesium alloys to improve its mechanical properties. The complete transition of residual austenite to martensite and finer secondary carbide precipitation correlates with an increase in the mechanical properties of tool steel. The nonferrous materials such as aluminum and magnesium alloys showed improved mechanical properties owing to the precipitation of finer second phases in the matrix. The main objective of this review paper is to provide an overview on the history and theories of DCT, important processing parameters, and the effect of DCT on microstructure and mechanical properties of tool steel, aluminum alloys, and magnesium alloys.
The Impact of Implementing Emancipated Curriculum on Students’ Learning Outcomes in Spoken Interaction Texts
Authors: Luhur Anggit Budi , Fitriati Sri Wuli , Rozi Fahrur
Published: February 2024

This study discussed the effect of implementing the Emancipated curriculum on student learning outcomes in spoken interaction material at SMK Negeri 2 Slawi. Quantitative data were collected through a quasi-experimental design using a non-equivalent control group. The research participants were selected using purposive sampling, and the pre-test and post-test results were statistically analyzed. To obtain quantitative data, the researcher conducted a written test to check students' understanding of oral interaction texts. The pre-test and post-test learning outcomes were analyzed using paired t-test and N-Gain Score test statistical calculations. The results of the hypothesis test on interpersonal conversation text showed a significant improvement in the experimental group, with a significance value of 0.000, while the control group had a value of 0.001. The N-Gain Score for the experimental group was 0.6447, and for the control group was -0.4452. These results illustrate that the intervention provided to the experimental group positively and significantly affected the measured outcomes. In contrast, the control group experienced a decrease in the results after the intervention. For transactional conversation text, the experimental group had a significance value of 0.000, while the control group had a value of 0.146. The N-Gain Score for the experimental group was 0.6808, and for the control group was 0.0640. In this study, implementing the Emancipated curriculum was quite effective for learning outcomes of oral interaction texts. In addition, the researcher suggests that English teachers apply the teaching steps according to the independent curriculum to teach other types of texts.
Positive Politeness Strategies Performed by International Guest Speakers in Mata Najwa Exclusive Interview
Authors: Bintangtricahya Erlin , Hartono Rudi , Saleh Mursid
Published: February 2024

It is necessary to recognize particular communication strategies in order to construct a decent conversation and social relationship amongst interlocutors from diverse cultures and norms. Politeness is one of the communication strategies used to maintain the interlocutors’ feeling so the conversation flows in harmony. In society, interview and talk show becomes popular programs in acquiring information. This study aims to examine the positive politeness strategies performed by international guest speakers in Mata Najwa Exclusive Interview. As the primary source, the data were taken from the interview’s transcript. A descriptive qualitative method was used to analyze the positive politeness strategies proposed by Brown and Levinson. The findings show that there are 13 types of positive politeness sub-strategies performed by four international guest speakers. Those are noticing (attending to the hearer), exaggerating, intensifying, using in-group identity markers, seeking agreement, avoiding disagreement, presupposing/asserting/raising common ground, joking, asserting/presupposing speaker knowledge, offering/promising, include both speaker and hearer in the activity, give/ask for a reason, give gifts (sympathy, good, understanding). The highest number of sub-strategy was presupposing/asserting/raising common ground which occurred 19 times. This study is expected to contribute in English language teaching specifically in comprehending cross-cultural understanding (CCU) in relation to Indonesian context.
Evaluating The Quality of Teacher’s Talk in English Classroom Interaction at SMPIT Cahaya Bangsa Semarang
Authors: Prastowo Alfat , Wuli Fritrianti Sri , Widhiyanto Widhiyanto
Published: February 2024

Teachers talk play an essential role in classroom interaction, the study evaluated the quality of the teacher’s talk in English language class using Flanders (FIAC) system (1989) in Teacher‟s talk interaction. It aimed to evaluate seven of teacher talk quality in English classroom interaction. The study used a descriptive qualitative research design since involves human behavior in natural setting. The data was collected used audio recording and observed two class meetings at eighth grade of SMPIT Cahaya Bangsa Semarang which took approximately 160 minutes. One of English teacher was the subject and 29 students was the object in this study. The result of the study showed that asked questions was the most frequently shown which is 63 times, with percentage 36,2%. Giving direction was the often shown which is 47 times, with percentage 27,01%. Praises and encourages was the quite often shown which is 29 times, with percentage 16,66%. Lecturing was the quite rare shown which is 14 times, with percentage 8,04%. Accept feeling was the rarely shown which is 8 times, with percentage 4,6%. Criticizing or justifying authority was the rarely shown which is 7 times, with percentage 4,02%. Accepts and uses idea of students was the rarest shown which is 6 times, with percentage 3,44%. The evaluated of teacher‟s talk interaction quality that teacher focus on two interactions are asked questions and giving direction.
The Realization of Affect, Judgement, and Appreciation of Discoursal Attitude in Library Ghost Webtoon
Authors: Kurniawati Eka , Wuli Fitriati Sri , Suwandi Suwandi
Published: February 2024

This research is aimed to evaluate and interpret the meaning of feelings into the webtoon makers to readers through a written. This research was qualitative since the findings took the form primarily of words. The source is a Webtoon. The researchers chose a Webtoon because interested in examining Appraisals using Webtoon because it can be media in learning and teaching for educators and will also help them improve their reading skills; the author is curious about the realization of Attitudinal in the Webtoon, especially on Library Ghost Webtoon. The reason for choosing this study is because Attitudes are believed to affect the meaning of language directly. Attitude plays an essential role in the expression of interpersonal meanings of language. The instruments applied were Library Ghost, adapted by Webtoon to assess the attitude system and the appraisal resources checklist to determine the distribution of appraising items of attitude in Webtoon and the relationship of the attitude system on Webtoon. This study proves that a text such as a webtoon, especially Library Ghost, has three items of attitude system in each episode. The author of this webtoon is more dominant in using affect than appreciation and judgment in the webtoon. This study shows that writing in a text can express the emotions or feelings contained in the text. Because Webtoon is a conversation-based online comic. Therefore, affect is more dominant than appreciation and judgment. In the ghost webtoon library, the author expresses more emotions and feelings to the characters.
The Implementation of Genre-Based Approach Through Project-Based Learning in Teaching Writing
Authors: Khasanah Nur , Faridi Abdurrachman , Wahyuni Sri
Published: February 2024

Writing is one of the six elements of English in the Emancipated Curriculum that must be mastered by Phase E (10th-grade) students. It is a productive skill that proves challenging for students. Considering this, a genre-based approach and project-based learning will be the best techniques for the teacher and students to achieve the learning target. This study aimed to explain the implementation of a genre-based approach through project-based learning in teaching writing. The research design was a qualitative case study conducted at SMKN 1 Temanggung. The participants of this study were thirty-six students and one English teacher. The instruments used in this study were observation class, interview, questionnaire, and document review. The data were analyzed using an interactive analysis model based on Miles and Huberman (1994). The results show that the planning stage of using a genre-based approach through project-based learning was found in the teaching documents (the syllabus, lesson plan, and learning materials), the practice of using a genre-based approach through project-based learning was manifested in the teaching and learning activities, and the assessment of using it was conducted through formative assessment by giving the written test and work performance. So, it was concluded that the use of a genre-based approach through project-based learning was implemented in teaching writing. This holistic study contributes significantly to the understanding of effective pedagogical practices, providing a unique perspective on combining these approaches to enhance students' writing skills. It underscores the potential of this combined approach, offering a valuable contribution to the field of language education, especially in teaching writing skills.
The Development of Pre-Service Teacher’s Professional Competence in Teaching English at Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi
Authors: Saputro Ahmad Bowo , Sakhiyya Zulfa , Mujiyanto Januarius
Published: February 2024

Teaching English as a second language requires pre-service educators to possess a diverse skill set and adapt to evolving teaching methodologies and language acquisition theories. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the factors that contribute to the development of pre-service English teachers' professional competence to ensure their readiness to enter the teaching profession. This study aims to investigate the factors contributing to the development of pre-service English teachers' professional competence in teaching English, addressing the lack of research in this area. More specifically, it aims to explore the challenges faced by pre-service teachers in developing their professional competence, identify areas where current teacher education programs may fall short, and provide practical recommendations for pre-service teacher training programs. This study employs a descriptive qualitative research method by involving five pre-service English teachers participating in a School Teaching Practice Program. To gather the data, this research uses a reflection section and then analyzedcategorized. The findings highlight the significance of active learning experiences, such as fieldwork and classroom practice, in fostering the development of professional competence among pre-service teachers. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for pre-service teachers to be adequately prepared to meet the evolving needs of English language learners, especially in the context of changing teaching methodologies and advancements in educational technology.
Approach to hypoxemia in the emergency department in a clinical case of Eisenmenger Syndrome
Authors: Pozos Gutierrez Eric Miguel , Mendez de Jesus Ignacio Alberto , Sanabria- Cordero David , Orejel Feria Tabatta Gabriela , Gómez Harumy Chávez , Velázquez Rivera Adriana Desireé
Published: February 2024

There is a wide variety of pathologies that can cause hypoxia with different pathophysiological mechanisms, and therefore with different response to treatment with supplemental oxygen, it is essential for emergency care physicians to know the different pathologies causing hypoxia to be able to adequately and direct the treatment , in this paper we discuss the case of a patient with syncope and hypoxia who reaches the emergency department, which mechanism of hypoxia is a consequence of an interatrial short circuit, reaching the conclusion of Eisenmenger syndrome, which is a pulmonary vascular disease, with elevation of pulmonary resistance in patients with a history of heart disease with short circuit from left to right. This pathology is of vital importance that its identification is made in initial stages, with the aim of preventing evolution to the point where medical treatment is insufficient, and as in the case to mention, the only remaining option would be lung and heart transplantation.
Електронний документообіг при здійсненні галузевого управління
Authors: Мазур Олександр
Published: February 2024

Актуальність полягає в тому, що в умовах цифрової трансформації суспільства, з боку держави управління галузями економіки необхідно здійснювати результативними засобами, серед яких електронний документообіг стає важливим інструментом.

Метою статті є вивчення існуючих аспектів використання систем електронного документообігу органами публічного управління при здійсненні галузевого управління.

Методами дослідження є спостереження, аналіз, синтез та узагальнення.

Результати. Налагоджена «безпаперова» внутрішня робота установ дозволяє публічним службовцям виконувати її дистанційно через систему електронного документообігу. Програмне забезпечення систем електронного документообігу поділяється на платне (ліцензійне) та вільне (безоплатне). Досвід практичного застосування засвідчує, що в органах публічного управління віддається перевага ліцензійному програмному забезпеченню систем електронного документообігу. Інтероперабельність існуючих систем електронного документообігу при здійсненні галузевого управління забезпечується на загальнодержавному рівні через систему електронної взаємодії органів виконавчої влади.

Висновки. В роботі установ вертикалі галузевого управління, у випадках, що стосуються деяких адміністративних процесів, які винятково дієві тільки при паперовому діловодстві, повинна проводитись їх ретельна адаптація під електронний документообіг. Подібні випадки вимагають чітко виписаної інструкції з діловодства відповідної установи, яка стосуватиметься обох складових, як електронної так і паперової. Питання економії бюджетних коштів є важливим при закупівлі необхідного програмного забезпечення, тому перехід на вільне програмне забезпечення систем електронного документообігу залишається актуальним і, водночас, дискусійним. Недовершене з різних чинників впровадження систем електронного документообігу в органах публічного управління, які відносяться до вертикалі галузевого управління, впливає на їх належну роботу в рамках системи електронної взаємодії органів виконавчої влади.
Природоохоронні засади християнської моралі в сучасній науковій літературі
Authors: Бутчак Христина , Гайдукевич Олена , Концур-Карабінович Наталія , Карабінович Віталій , Сокирко Анна
Published: February 2024

Актуальність. Стаття присвячена висвітленню питання ставлення людини до природного довкілля. Доведено, що природоохоронні аспекти буття людини на Землі займають значне місце в наукових дослідженнях як богословів, так і науковців. Метою статті є дослідити та визначити природоохоронні засади християнської моралі в сучасній науковій літературі, в тому числі й на прикладах енцилік Святійшого Отця папи римського Івана-Павла ІІ. В процесі дослідження було отримано такі результати: викладені основні положення християнської моралі гідного людини суспільства, побудованого в контексті її взаємозв’язку з природою на основі євангельських засад. У центрі цього вчення – людина з її належністю до складної системи сучасних суспільних відносин. Заповідаючи любов до Бога, ближнього свого та природного довкілля, церква тим самим указує людині напрямок життя, сприяє збагаченню духовності та цілісному розвитку як самої людини, так і побудованого нею суспільства. Іван-Павло ІІ констатував, що використання природних ресурсів Землі вимагає сьогодні розумного і правильного планування. І відповідно, відповідальність за сучасну екологічну кризу спільно несе все людство планети

В ході дослідження проаналізовано відповідну літературу та зроблено такі висновки, що суспільству потрібні  глибока християнська духовність та висока екологічна культура, оскільки єдиний вихід із сучасної кризової екологічної ситуації – це оптимізація взаємодії людини й природи, ощадливе використання й активне примноження природних багатства планети. Система цінностей  нашого українського народу сформувалася під значним впливом християнства. Наша національна ментальність базується та основується на християнській основі. Українська християнська філософія – це любов як до людини, так і до землі. Сучасному суспільству потрібні глибока християнська духовність та висока екологічна культура. Тому сьогодні богослови, філософи, соціологи, екологи всього світу вбачають єдиний вихід із сучасної кризової екологічної ситуації – оптимізувати взаємодію людини й природи, ощадливо використовувати й активно примножувати природні багатства планети.