bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional analysis of MMR gene VUS from potential Lynch syndrome patients
Authors: Mahdouani Marwa , Zhuri Drenushe , Sezginer Guler Hazal , Hmida Dorra , Sana Mokni , Azaza Mohamed , Ben Said Mariem , Masmoudi Saber , Hmila Fahmi , Youssef Sabri , Ben Sghaier Rihab , Brieger Angela , Zeuzem Stefan , Saad Ali , Gurkan Hakan , Yalcintepe Sinem , Gribaa Moez , Plotz Guido
Published: June 2024

Lynch syndrome is caused by inactivating variants in DNA mismatch repair genes, namely MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2. We have investigated five MLH1 and one MSH2 variants that we have identified in Turkish and Tunisian colorectal cancer patients. These variants comprised two small deletions causing frameshifts resulting in premature stops which could be classified pathogenic (MLH1 p.(His727Profs*57) and MSH2 p.(Thr788Asnfs*11)), but also two missense variants (MLH1 p.(Asn338Ser) and p.(Gly181Ser)) and two small, in-frame deletion variants (p.(Val647-Leu650del) and p.(Lys678_Cys680del)). For such small coding genetic variants, it is unclear if they are inactivating or not. We here provide clinical description of the variant carriers and their families, and we performed biochemical laboratory testing on the variant proteins to test if their stability or their MMR activity are compromised. Subsequently, we compared the results to in-silico predictions on structure and conservation. We demonstrate that neither missense alteration affected function, while both deletion variants caused a dramatic instability of the MLH1 protein, resulting in MMR deficiency. These results were consistent with the structural analyses that were performed. The study shows that knowledge of protein function may provide molecular explanations of results obtained with functional biochemical testing and can thereby, in conjunction with clinical information, elevate the evidential value and facilitate clinical management in affected families.
Very early vs delayed invasive strategy in high-risk NSTEMI patients without hemodynamic instability: Insight from the KAMIR-NIH
Authors: Lee Seung Do , Kim Rock Bum , Seo Chang-Ok , Kim Moojun , Lee Hyo Jin , Kim Hangyul , Kim Hye Ree , Kim Kyehwan , Kang Min Gyu , Park Jeong Rang , Hwang Suk Jae , Hwang Jin Yong , Jeong Myung Ho , Hur Seung-Ho , Cha Kwang Soo , Koh Jin-Sin ,   on behalf of the KAMIR-NIH registry investigators
Published: June 2024

Background

High-risk non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) patients’ optimal timing for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is debated despite the recommendation for early invasive revascularization. This study aimed to compare outcomes of NSTEMI patients without hemodynamic instability undergoing very early invasive strategy (VEIS, ≤ 12 hours) versus delayed invasive strategy (DIS, >12 hours).

Methods

Excluding urgent indications for PCI including initial systolic blood pressure under 90 mmHg, ventricular arrhythmia, or Killip class IV, 4,733 NSTEMI patients were recruited from the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry-National Institutes of Health (KAMIR-NIH). Patients were divided into low and high- global registry of acute coronary events risk score risk score (GRS) groups based on 140. Both groups were then categorized into VEIS and DIS. Clinical outcomes, including all-cause death (ACD), cardiac death (CD), recurrent MI, and cerebrovascular accident at 12 months, were evaluated.

Results

Among 4,733 NSTEMI patients, 62% had low GRS, and 38% had high GRS. The proportions of VEIS and DIS were 43% vs. 57% in the low GRS group and 47% vs. 53% in the high GRS group. In the low GRS group, VEIS and DIS demonstrated similar outcomes; however, in the high GRS group, VEIS exhibited worse ACD outcomes compared to DIS (HR = 1.46, P = 0.003). The adverse effect of VEIS was consistent with propensity score matched analysis (HR = 1.34, P = 0.042).

Conclusion

VEIS yielded worse outcomes than DIS in high-risk NSTEMI patients without hemodynamic instability in real-world practice.
The effect of titanium-platelet rich fibrin on periodontal intrabony defects: A randomized controlled split-mouth clinical study
Authors: Ozkal Eminoglu Didem , Arabaci Taner , Oztas Sahiner Gurbet Alev
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to determine the contribution of titanium prepared platelet-rich fibrin (T-PRF) with open flap debridement (OFD) on clinical, biochemical and radiographic measurements of periodontal regeneration. Twenty periodontitis patients with bilateral intrabony defects and stage III grade A periodontitis were included in the study. A total of 40 defects were randomly selected for OFD alone (control group, n = 20) or combined OFD+ T-PRF (test group, n = 20). Clinical and radiographic parameters (at baseline and nine months after surgery), and growth factor levels in gingival crevicular fluid (at baseline and at two, four, six, and twelve weeks after surgical treatment) were also evaluated. Considering the clinical parameters, alterations in probing pocket depth, gingival marginal level and clinical endpoint in the test regions treated with T-PRF significantly improved (P<0.05). Fibroblast growth factor-2 and platelet-derived growth factor-BB levels between the two groups in the second and fourth weeks were also significantly different (P<0.05). Furthermore, the receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand/osteoprotegerin ratio between the groups was significantly different in the second, fourth, sixth, and twelfth weeks (P<0.05). The bone-filling rate was also significantly greater in the test group than in the control group (P <0.001). Compared with OFD alone, combining T-PRF with the procedure was more successful with regards to clinical, radiographic, and biochemical measurements of periodontal regeneration.
A comparative study of 3D measuring methods for monitoring breast volume changes
Authors: Dijkman Benthe A. M. , Liberton Niels P. T. J. , te Slaa Sjoerd , Smit Jan Maerten , Wiepjes Chantal M. , Dreijerink Koen M. A. , den Heijer Martin , Verdaasdonk Rudolf M. , de Blok Christel J. M.
Published: June 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) imaging techniques are promising new tools for measuring breast volume, for example in gender-affirming therapy. Transgender individuals can be treated with gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). A robust method for monitoring breast volume changes is critical to be able to study the effects of feminizing GAHT. The primary aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of three 3D devices (Vectra XT, Artec LEO and iPhone XR) for measuring modest breast volume differences using a mannequin. The secondary aim of this study was to evaluate these methods in several performance domains. We used reference prostheses of increasing volumes and compared the volumes using GOM-inspect software. For Vectra XT 3D images, manufacturer-provided software was used to calculate volumes as well. The scanning methods were ranked based on their performance in a total of five categories: volume estimations, costs, user-friendliness, test subject-friendliness and technical aspects. The 3D models analyzed with GOM-inspect showed relative mean estimate differences from the actual volumes of 9.1% for the Vectra XT, 7.3% for the Artec LEO and 14% for the iPhone XR. For the Vectra XT models analyzed with the built-in software this was 6.2%. Root mean squared errors (RMSE) calculated based on the GOM-inspect volume analyses showed mean RMSEs of 2.27, 2.54 and 8.93 for the Vectra XT, Artec LEO and iPhone XR, respectively. The Vectra software had a mean RMSE of 3.00. In the combined performance ranking, the Vectra XT had the most favorable ranking, followed by the Artec LEO and the iPhone XR. The Vectra XT and Artec LEO are the preferred scanners to monitor breast development due to the combination of higher accuracy and overall performance. The current study shows that 3D techniques can be used to adequately measure modest breast volume differences and therefore will be useful to study for example breast changes in transgender individuals using feminizing GAHT. These observations may also be relevant in other fields of 3D imaging research.
How does the level of enterprise digitalization affect value creation and realization? Testing of the dual path of "based on breakthrough" and "tending to compliance"
Authors: Zhang Jiehui , Yang Sen , Wang Yifeng
Published: June 2024

The construction of enterprise digitization serves as a "gateway" for the integration of the digital and real economies. As enterprises undergo robust digital transformations, it becomes crucial to delineate the pathway from enterprise digitization level to value creation and realization in order to maximize enterprise value. We select sample data from Chinese A-share listed companies from 2015 to 2021 as the research subject. Based on the fixed-effects model, we empirically test the impact of enterprise digitization level on both value creation and realization, as well as the mediating mechanism of entrepreneurship and internal control within it. The results indicate that the enterprise digitization level significantly enhances both value creation and realization. However, significant differences exist in the impact of the digitization level on value creation and realization among enterprises with different technological attributes and at different stages of the lifecycle. Further mechanism tests demonstrate that the "breakthrough-based" entrepreneurship and "compliance-based" internal control quality play effective mediating roles between enterprise digitization level and enterprise value. This study provides a new perspective for understanding the value creation and realization process in the digital context, and offers relevant insights for further stimulating and guiding enterprises of different types and stages to drive value enhancement with digital capabilities, thereby facilitating the deep integration of the digital with the real economy.
“Agradar a Gregos e a… Gregos”. Aristófanes e o(s) seu(s) público(s).
Authors: Tavares de Faria Rui
Published: June 2024

O público detém um papel fundamental na representação dramática e Aristófanes cedo tomou consciência da importância deste elemento coletivo para o sucesso – ou insucesso – de uma peça teatral. Sensível à heterogeneidade do consumidor da arte cómica, aquele que é para nós o representante da Comédia Antiga fez-se valer de diversas estratégias para tornar a(s) sua(s) audiência(s) num público sofisticado e crítico. É sobre este processo, o de “educar” cidadãos através do teatro e para o teatro, que incide o nosso artigo. Neste âmbito, Aristófanes assume uma função relevante, comprometido que está com uma comédia que ele pretende seja política e didática.
Piarista szerzetesek származása és pályafutása a 18. századi Magyar Királyságban
Authors: Szekér Barnabás
Published: June 2024

Az utóbbi években kibontakozóban van egy kutatási irányzat az oktatás-, az egyház- és a társadalomtörténet határmezsgyéjén, amely az értelmiségi pályafutások regionális és strukturális mintáit igyekszik azonosítani a kora újkori és újkori Magyar Királyság oktatási és tudományos intézményrendszerében. Az eddigi, dominánsan 19–20. századi protestáns közegekre vonatkozó eredményekhez (pl. Kovács, 2018; Ugrai, 2023) ez a tanulmány a 18. századi katolikus iskolahálózat egy szegmensére, a piarista rend magyar tartományára vonatkozó részvizsgálattal szeretne csatlakozni. Alapját egy, a váci, Collegium Theresianum nevű nemesi kollégiumban (működött 1767–1784 között) szolgáló szerzetestanárok (70 fő) életrajzi adatait tartalmazó adatbázis képezi. Az első részben a származásra és iskolázásra vonatkozó adatok segítségével igyekszik megvilágítani a rendtagok mint csoport társadalmi és kulturális hátterének jellemző vonásait. A második részben hat kiválasztott egyén származását és szerzetesi pályájának állomásait mutatja be rövid életrajzi vázlatokban, illusztrálva egyfelől az első rész eredményeit, és megfogalmazva néhány tanulságot másfelől a pályafutások tekintetében. A rend utánpótlásának két legfontosabb rekrutációs bázisát a volt hódoltság egyes katolikus városainak, és egyben piarista „iskolavárosainak” (Pest, Vác, Szeged) polgársága, illetve a katolikus többségű északnyugat-magyarországi régió társadalmi státuszát és lakóhelyét tekintve is szélesebb spektrumot megjelenítő lakossága adta. A rendbe lépők nyelvtudását tekintve kirajzolódik a korabeli magyarországi piaristák alapvető többnyelvűsége, és az is, hogy a nemesi kollégiumban vélhetően a német nyelvet jól beszélő rendtagokat részesítették előnyben.
Iskolaváros a határon.
Authors: Patyi Gábor
Published: June 2024

Sopron a középkortól a 20. század derekáig bizonyosan az egyik jelentős iskolavárosa volt hazánknak. Természetesen a századok során mennyiségi-minőségi értelemben az iskolaváros jelleg sokat változott. A 19. század és a 20. század első fele hazánkban a polgári társadalom kiépülésének korszaka. A polgári társadalom kiépülése a korábbiakhoz képest új kihívásokat teremtett a korabeli oktatásüggyel szemben, a hagyományos, latinos műveltséget nyújtó gimnáziumok mellett a korabeli munkaerőpiaci igények kielégítésében fontos szerepet kaptak előbb a reális ismereteket közvetítő polgári és reáliskolák, később a különböző szakképző intézmények. Ezek sajátos típusának tekinthetők a korabeli pedagógusképző tanító- és tanítónőképző, illetve óvónőképző tanintézetek. Sopron város fejlődése számos okból kifolyólag gazdasági értelemben a 19. század második felében megrekedt, a többi városhoz képest a fejlődése lelassult, elmaradt. Kulturális tekintetben viszont a dualizmus kora a város történetében virágkornak számít, és ez érvényes az oktatásügyre is: a kor kihívásainak megfelelően sorra létesültek a polgári iskolák, reáliskolák, szakképző és pedagógusképző tanintézetek. A tanulmány fő célja éppen ennek a paradox helyzetnek, a gazdasági fejlődés lelassulásával párhuzamosan jelentkező nagyfokú iskolaalapítási láznak az ütköztetése, bemutatása. Természetesen röviden kitérünk a középkori és kora újkori előzményekre is, majd kicsit bővebben a 19. század korábbi évtizedeiben a reáliák oktatása, illetve a szak-és pedagógusképzés terén bekövetkezett fejleményekre, hiszen a 19. század első felének történései már témánk közvetlen előzményét jelentik. Kitérünk továbbá Sopron város 19. századi gazdaság- és társadalomtörténeti tényeire is.
Comparison of Different Bandwidth Determination Methods in Kernel Equating
Authors: Özdemir Vildan
Published: June 2024

The study aims to compare the presented methods for determining the bandwidth parameter in the kernel equating method on a real data set. A bandwidth parameter needs to be determined when kernel equating is used to equate two test forms. The bandwidth parameters determine the smoothness of the continuousized score distributions, so their effect on equating results is inevitable. Gaussian Kernel, Logistic Kernel and Uniform Kernel methods were used for bandwidth selection and the results were compared according to the Percentage Relative Error (PRE), the Standard Error and the Standard Error of Equating Difference (SEED). The findings of the study show that the three different approaches to minimizing the penalty function have similar results. Although the standard errors of the equated scores obtained with the uniform kernel method were slightly smaller, the results were almost the same as the other two approaches. When the three equating methods are compared according to the percent relative error, the distribution obtained from Gaussian kernel equating is more consistent with the population distribution.
Sociální klima učitelských sborů: Kvalitativní kvaziexperiment
Authors: Rozkovcová Andrea , Urbánek Petr , Picková Helena , Jursová Jitka , Nišponská Magda , Dymokurský Oto
Published: June 2024

The favourable social climate of the teaching staff is one of the key indicators of the quality of school functioning. The text presents five research phases of a qualitative longitudinal pre-post quasi-experiment implemented in the environment of school life. In 37 schools, the climate of the teaching staffs was repeatedly measured with the OCDQ-RS questionnaire in the pre- and post-intervention phase of the experiment. In six of these schools, qualitative research procedures were carried out in order to determine the causes and contexts of the state of the climate and intervention procedures aimed at supporting the development of a favourable teaching staff climate. In the post-intervention phase, focus groups were implemented in six intervened schools to supplement the context. The aim of the research was to find out what effects intervention procedures can have on the climate and under what conditions they can be successful. The results confirm repeated findings about the key role of school leadership in shaping and maintaining a favourable climate of the staff by increasing trust across the staff, promoting open communication and meaningful cooperation of all actors, and leading to shared meanings of events in the school and general acceptance of the school’s values and concept.
The use of infrared thermography for abdominal gunshot wounds
Authors: Sobko I. V.
Published: June 2024

Aim. To determine the effectiveness of infrared thermography to identify tissue debris of parenchymal organs and in the wound edges of hollow organs to be removed as well as for the surgical treatment of gunshot wounds of the anterior abdominal wall.
Materials and methods. The results of the infrared thermography use in the provision of surgical care to 67 wounded at the second level of medical care in the conditions of the Forward Surgical Group of the Military Mobile Hospital were analyzed.
Results. Clinical examples and results of the infrared thermography use for the diagnosis and treatment of gunshot wounds of the abdominal wall soft tissues, injuries to parenchymal and hollow abdominal organs are presented.
Conclusions. Intraoperative infrared thermography allows to quickly assess the viability of the abdominal wall soft tissues, necrotic tissue margins of parenchymal organs, the state of blood supply to the walls of damaged hollow organs and their viability, thereby optimizing surgical tactics for abdominal gunshot wounds.
Różnice w dotychczasowych badaniach nad przestrzenią miejską i wiejską – tematyka, skala opracowań, udział społeczeństwa
Authors: Staszewska Sylwia
Published: June 2024

Celem artykułu jest wykazanie różnic pomiędzy tematyką i skalą badań nad obszarami miejskimi i wiejskimi od połowy XX w. do czasów współczesnych. Widoczne odmienne podejścia analityczne wynikały z dostępnych narzędzi badawczych, zainteresowań naukowców, potrzeb sfery społeczno-gospodarczej, a także możliwych do pozyskania danych statystycznych czy nawet wiedzy o potrzebach społeczności lokalnych. W rozwoju miast i wsi zmieniła się organizacja i zarządzanie tymi jednostkami, nastąpiło znaczące zaangażowanie społeczeństwa, które (kiedyś mniej świadome) obecnie chce brać udział w procesie planowania przestrzennego i strategicznego. Szczególny nacisk w artykule położono na współczesne różnice w spojrzeniu badaczy na rozwój przedmiotowych jednostek, które ukazano za pomocą opracowań realizowanych na terenach miejskich i wiejskich.
Preparation of biomass activated carbon with aligned graphene nanosheet arrays from bamboo parenchymal cells for supercapacitors
Authors: Xia Yao , Liu Zhigao , Huang Yuxiang
Published: June 2024

The increasing recognition of the need for economically viable carbon materials in supercapacitors has resulted in a notable emphasis on utilizing recycled biomass waste as a precursor for activated carbon (AC). This study investigates the production of highly porous AC through vertically aligned graphene nanosheet arrays (VAGNAs) derived from bamboo parenchyma cells, a type of biomass waste. The focus lies in manipulating the ratio of alkali to carbon during the activation process. Elevating the alkali-carbon ratio augments the specific surface area of the AC while concurrently reducing the presence of VAGNAs. Surprisingly, AC generated with an alkali-carbon ratio of four exhibits a remarkable specific capacitance of 215 F g−1 when subjected to a current density of 0.2 A g−1. When integrated into a supercapacitor apparatus, this AC material demonstrates a notable energy density of 11.2 W-hours per kilogram (Wh kg−1) at a power density of 50 W per kilogram (W kg−1). Moreover, it displays exceptional cycling stability, maintaining 89.4 % of its capacitance after undergoing 10,000 cycles in a 6 M potassium hydroxide electrolyte. The findings of this investigation underscore the potential of utilizing waste bamboo parenchyma cells for sustainable energy storage applications.
“Laughing with” or “laughing at” people with disabilities? Love on the Spectrum and Derek
Authors: Kulick Don
Published: June 2024

This paper explores the charged line between “laughing with” and “laughing at” people with disabilities. It documents how “the line” is structured, how the line between “laughing with” and “laughing at” is manifested, and how we might reasonably surmise when it has been crossed. Two television series are examined and compared. The first, Love on the Spectrum, is an Australian reality series that follows a number of young adults on the autism spectrum, as they search for love and go on dates with others who also are on the spectrum. Much of the charm of the series is that it evokes laughter, frequently at the seriousness of the people it portrays. The laughter raised during Love on the Spectrum is compared with the laughter encouraged by British comedian Ricky Gervais’s 2012–2014 series Derek, which is about a character who many viewers identified as being on the autism spectrum. The paper discusses similarities between the two series, but concludes by proposing that the laughter invited by the protagonists’ seriousness during these two series in fact is structured very differently.
Wenn Dinge Höflichkeit machen. Erzählter Austausch von Gegenständen in Heinrichs von Veldeke Eneas
Authors: Reicher Ruth
Published: June 2024

Discourses of courtliness manifest themselves, among other things, in medieval literature through a nuanced material culture. The paper substantiates this assumption through a comparison of two episodes in Heinrich von Veldeke’s Eneasroman, in which gifts are circulated and protagonists communicate nonverbally through acts of giving. Gifts, as communication media, appear predisposed to establish and preserve courtliness as objects of materialized politeness, guarding against potential loss of face. Gifts thus have agency, as they appear to initiate and determine actions.
(Miss-)verstandene Höflichkeitsformen: Zu Kulturkontakten zwischen Europa und der ‚Neuen Welt‘ im 16. Jahrhundert
Authors: Bastert Bernd
Published: June 2024

Using examples from some 16th century German and Spanish reports dealing with negotiations between indigenous peoples and Spanish conquerors in Latin America, the article describes transcultural forms of communication between these very different cultures. It can be stated that politeness certainly played a role in the initial decades of contact. However, as far as we can reconstruct from the texts, which have been reformed from a European perspective, it appears that politeness did not significantly contribute, especially not to a better understanding between the cultures.
Transient cold-front-water through y-shaped aluminium ducts: nature of turbulence, non-equilibrium thermodynamics, and velocity at the converged and diverged outlets
Authors: Wang Fuzhang , Animasaun Isaac Lare , Al Shamsi Dalal Matar , Muhammad Taseer , Ali Asgar
Published: June 2024

The interaction between water motion efficiency, outlet control mechanisms, and energy dynamics management hinges significantly on turbulence characteristics. However, understanding the influence of input velocities and duct features on outlets remains elusive. This study employs the realizable k − ɛ viscous model and Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations (RANS equations) to explore transient water dynamics encountering a cold front through ducts leading to convergence or divergence. Using Ansys Fluent 2023R2 and the waterlight workflow, meticulous meshing of the ducts is executed to capture flow intricacies accurately. Grid independence, suitable boundary conditions, and solver settings are carefully considered to ensure reliable results for investigating four key research questions. Duct bending introduces non-uniformities in velocity distribution, impacting exit velocity and altering flow characteristics and turbulence. In Case III, centrifugal forces from a 90° bend result in higher outlet velocities at the convergent exit and secondary flow patterns like swirls and vortexes. Additionally, entrance velocities influence Reynolds numbers, affecting mixing, heat transfer coefficients, and flow regimes, thereby optimizing thermal conductivity. This comprehensive investigation sheds light on optimizing water dynamics and energy management across various duct configurations, offering valuable insights into efficient flow control and thermal performance enhancement.
Large-scale photonic inverse design: computational challenges and breakthroughs
Authors: Kang Chanik , Park Chaejin , Lee Myunghoo , Kang Joonho , Jang Min Seok , Chung Haejun
Published: June 2024

Recent advancements in inverse design approaches, exemplified by their large-scale optimization of all geometrical degrees of freedom, have provided a significant paradigm shift in photonic design. However, these innovative strategies still require full-wave Maxwell solutions to compute the gradients concerning the desired figure of merit, imposing, prohibitive computational demands on conventional computing platforms. This review analyzes the computational challenges associated with the design of large-scale photonic structures. It delves into the adequacy of various electromagnetic solvers for large-scale designs, from conventional to neural network-based solvers, and discusses their suitability and limitations. Furthermore, this review evaluates the research on optimization techniques, analyzes their advantages and disadvantages in large-scale applications, and sheds light on cutting-edge studies that combine neural networks with inverse design for large-scale applications. Through this comprehensive examination, this review aims to provide insights into navigating the landscape of large-scale design and advocate for strategic advancements in optimization methods, solver selection, and the integration of neural networks to overcome computational barriers, thereby guiding future advancements in large-scale photonic design.
Publishing Embargoes and Versions of Preprints: Impact on the Dissemination of Information
Authors: Teixeira da Silva Jaime A. , Huang Chun-Kai (Karl) , Nazarovets Maryna
Published: June 2024

This commentary abridges three closely related aspects of scholarly publishing, copyright transfer to publishers in the subscription-based model, posting of author-accepted versions to preprint servers, and publishing embargoes, to appreciate how each might impact the dissemination of information. We found no direct evidence showing that either copyright transfer or the posting of early (i.e., author-submitted or journal-accepted) versions of works to preprint servers stifle academics’ ability to share their papers openly. However, some key structural issues and incompatibilities in policies may dampen the wider adoption of preprints despite their widely promoted advantages for scientists. We found a 6- to 36-month embargo period in place by 10 of the world’s top largest publishers, depending on the version of the record. These embargoes may constrain the dissemination of knowledge.
Scientific Testability Following the Assumption of Insufficient Knowledge and Resources
Authors: López-Astorga Miguel
Published: June 2024

Carnap described ways to test scientific hypotheses. However, Carnap acknowledged that confirmation can never be definite. This left open the issue about the criteria to accept hypotheses. On the other hand, Wang has developed a computer program working without sufficient knowledge or resources, which makes the action of the program akin to the manner the human mind thinks. Wang’s program includes quantitative indicators that can be assigned to the frequency and the confidence of sentences. The present paper tries to link both approaches. The goal is to show how quantitative indicators such as those in Wang’s program can also be attributed to scientific hypotheses. Those indicators can help make decisions about the acceptance of the hypotheses. All of this allows proposing general characteristics for a possible algorithm to decide whether a particular hypothesis is admissible.
Tracking glass beads: communities and exchange relationships across the Atlantic in the seventeenth century
Authors: Walder Heather , Hawkins Alicia L.
Published: June 2024

Minimally invasive compositional analyses of glass trade beads have revolutionised the study of these highly portable and socially significant items. Here, the authors interrogate new and legacy compositional data to investigate how Indigenous communities in eastern North America, particularly Wendat confederacy members, obtained beads from European traders and connected to broader interregional exchange systems c. AD 1600–1670. Diagnostic chemical elements in glass compositions reveal down-the-line exchange and population movement into the Western Great Lakes region prior to the arrival of European settlers, which highlights active Indigenous participation in transatlantic economic networks during a historical period of dynamic reorganisation and interaction.
Experiencing an Elongated Limb in Virtual Reality Modifies the Tactile Distance Perception of the Corresponding Real Limb
Authors: Le Jeune François , D’Alonzo Marco , Piombino Valeria , Noccaro Alessia , Formica Domenico , Di Pino Giovanni
Published: June 2024

In measurement, a reference frame is needed to compare the measured object to something already known. This raises the neuroscientific question of which reference frame is used by humans when exploring the environment. Previous studies suggested that, in touch, the body employed as measuring tool also serves as reference frame. Indeed, an artificial modification of the perceived dimensions of the body changes the tactile perception of external object dimensions. However, it is unknown if such a change in tactile perception would occur when the body schema is modified through the illusion of owning a limb altered in size. Therefore, employing a virtual hand illusion paradigm with an elongated forearm of different lengths, we systematically tested the subjective perception of distance between two points [tactile distance perception (TDP) task] on the corresponding real forearm following the illusion. Thus, the TDP task is used as a proxy to gauge changes in the body schema. Embodiment of the virtual arm was found significantly greater after the synchronous visuotactile stimulation condition compared with the asynchronous one, and the forearm elongation significantly increased the TDP. However, we did not find any link between the visuotactile-induced ownership over the elongated arm and TDP variation, suggesting that vision plays the main role in the modification of the body schema. Additionally, significant effect of elongation found on TDP but not on proprioception suggests that these are affected differently by body schema modifications. These findings confirm the body schema malleability and its role as a reference frame in touch.
A time series analysis of disruptions to maternal and child health care in northern Togo during the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of an integrated primary care program
Authors: Haughton Jessica , Dabla Désiré , Goin Dana E. , Singer Amanda W. , Faro Elissa Z. , Levano Samantha , Miziou Essodinam , Kangni-Zovoin Assiongbonvi , Agoro Sibabe , Ekouevi Didier K. , Fiori Kevin P. , Hirschhorn Lisa R.
Published: June 2024

There are significant concerns that COVID-19-related disruptions in routine health care will reverse the gains made over the past 2 decades in reducing maternal and under-5 mortality in low- and middle-income countries. The objective of this study was to examine the extent of disruptions in community-based maternal and child health services and explore community perceptions and experiences with health care use in the year following the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in one district in northern Togo, West Africa. This study included analysis of multiple types of data including: (1) routine health management information system data from 18 public sector health centers, (2) programmatic data collected through an integrated health center- and community-based primary care program at 5 health centers, and (3) semi-structured interviews with health center managers, community health workers (CHWs), and community members at those 5 health centers. We found only short-term declines in service utilization coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic and no decline in the delivery of community-based care by CHWs. Qualitative data were consistent with the quantitative results, reporting sustained use of health-care services. Multilevel factors related to the continued provision of care during the COVID-19 pandemic included regular and clear communication from CHWs as trusted community sources, risk minimization at the health-center level, continued provision of community-based care by CHWs, and collaboration between community leaders and health-care workers to limit COVID-19 transmission. Findings demonstrate resiliency of an integrated primary care system when equipped with an adequately trained, supervised, and supplied health workforce, implementation of infection prevention and control measures, communication by trusted community sources, and adaptations to health-care delivery that enable the continued provision of care.
Introduction
Authors: Kelly Orla , Givens Jennifer
Published: June 2024

The intensifying global environmental crisis poses an existential threat to human well-being, exposing the deep vulnerabilities of our socio-economic systems and disproportionately burdening the world's most disadvantaged populations. A rich and long-standing tradition in macro-sociology offers a powerful lens to understand the underlying social drivers of this crisis. By examining the interconnectedness of development, well-being, and the environment this scholarship illuminates potential pathways towards a more sustainable future. The contributions in this special issue of leverages this macro-comparative approach and innovative multi-scalar quantitative methodologies to highlight these interdependencies, illustrating how structural inequality shapes human and environmental relations and how macroeconomic factors in some national contexts can hamper the pursuit of well-being in others.

We introduce the issue by providing context for the crisis and reviewing relevant theory and empirical research within the macro-sociological tradition. Subsequently, we showcase the contributions of each included paper, highlighting their unique insights and policy implications for structural reforms. Finally, we synthesize concrete policy recommendations and identify promising avenues for future research.
Influence of the distance between evaporation source and substrate on formation of lead telluride (PbTe) nanostructures by vacuum thermal evaporation method
Authors:   Department of Physics and Technology , Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi Avenue, 71, Almaty 050040 Kazakhstan, Amirbekova G. S. , Tolepov Zh. K. ,   Department of Physics and Technology , Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi Avenue, 71, Almaty 050040 Kazakhstan, Guseinova N. ,   Department of Physics and Technology , Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi Avenue, 71, Almaty 050040 Kazakhstan, Tulegenova M. A. ,   Department of Physics and Technology , Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi Avenue, 71, Almaty 050040 Kazakhstan, Kuanyshbekov T. ,   National Scientific Laboratory of Collective Use S. Amonzholov East Kazakhstan University, 55 Kazakhstan str., Ust-Kamenogorsk 070002, Kazakhstan
Published: June 2024

Lead telluride nanostructures were obtained on silicon substrates by thermal evaporation in vacuum. Growth occurred at three different distances between the evaporation source and the substrate. The distances between the evaporator and the evaporation source were 5 cm; 7.5 cm and 10 cm. Structural characteristics were studied using XRD, SEM, EDX, AFM analyses. These methods provided information about the crystal structure, morphology, microstructure and elemental composition of the material. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that thin films of lead telluride obtained by thermal evaporation in vacuum have a cubic crystal structure. This experimental work was carried out to determine the effect of distance on the structure of lead telluride (PbTe). During the experiment, the optimal modes for the formation of lead telluride (PbTe) nanostructures were determined, which was equal to d = 10 cm. It was found that lead telluride (PbTe) nanostructures are formed at this distance.
Thickness variation on some physical properties of CdS: MgO films
Authors:   Science Department - College of Basic Education, Mustansiriyah University, Iraq, Albanda W. H. , Saeed M. H. ,   Science Department - College of Basic Education, Mustansiriyah University, Iraq, Abdullah M. Z. ,   Materials Research Directorate, Ministry of Science and Technology, Iraq, Al-Timimi M. H. ,   Department of Physics, College of Science, University of Diyala, Iraq
Published: June 2024

In this study, CdS: MgO films were synthesized using the chemical spray pyrolysis method, varying the film thickness. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the polycrystalline nature of the films, with an observed increase in average crystallite size corresponding to thicker films, and The films' surface morphology indicates an absence of crystal defects such as holes and voids . The investigation of energy gap and optical parameters revealed a dependency on film thickness, with the energy gap shifting from 2.412 eV for a thickness of 150 nm to 2.354 eV for a thickness of 750 nm. Hall effect measurements demonstrated an augmentation in carrier concentration with increasing film thickness. The findings suggest a substantial influence of thickness on the physical properties of CdS: MgO thin films. Notably, thicker films exhibit characteristics that make them promising candidates for application as absorber layers in solar cells. This research provides valuable insights into tailoring the properties of these films for optimal performance in solar energy conversion devices, emphasizing the importance of controlling thickness in achieving desired electronic and optical characteristics.
Photoluminescence properties of manganese activated calcium tungstate phosphors
Authors:   Dr YC James Yen Government Polytechnic -Kuppam-517425, India, Rao M. J. , Murthy K. S. R. ,   Department of Physics, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, India, Kumar Ch. R. S. ,   Department of Physics, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, India, Singh B. P. ,   Department of Physics, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, India, Choudary G. S. V. R. K. ,   Department of Physics, Bhavan’s Vivekananda College, Sainikpuri, Secunderabad-500094, India, Varma M. C. ,   Department of Physics, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, India
Published: June 2024

This study presents the novel Mn doped CaWO4 nanophosphors as an excellent alternatives of rare earth free materials for display application. The Mn doped CaWO4 phosphor were characterized by various techniques, such as UV–Vis-DRS, Raman, PL analysis. Scheelite type tetragonal structure with space group I41/a has been confirmed. Rietveld analyses confirms the formation of single-phase solid solution. Lattice parameters for Mn free and Mn doped samples were calculated and observed that cell volume decreases after Mn incorporation. FTIR and Raman studies confirm the involvement of functional group and vibrational modes of vibration in the compound. Band gap values are estimated to be in the range of 4.2 to 4.33 eV with Mn doping. Photoluminescence study confirms the strong green emission at 450 and 515 nm (d-d transition in Mn2+) after Mn doping. Also, it was observed that strong emission peak appears ~422 nm is mainly due to the electronic transition, 1 T2 → 1 A1 in [WO4] 2- tetrahedron of CaWO4 host matrices. CIE study confirms that prepared nanophosphor exhibits strong blue colour after Mn incorporation. It can be employed as a potential material for blue phosphors in LEDs applications.
Preparation and characterization of strontium-doped bismuth borate glasses
Authors:   Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology, 8 Gagarin Avenue, Dnipro, 49005, Ukraine, Hordieiev Yu. S. , Zaichuk A. V. ,   Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology, 8 Gagarin Avenue, Dnipro, 49005, Ukraine
Published: June 2024

Employing the melt quenching method, new bismuth borate glass compositions denoted as (40+x)Bi2O3–(60-x-y)B2O3–ySrO, with x and y ranging between 0 to 20 mol%, were synthesized. The X-ray Diffraction analyses confirmed the amorphous nature of all glass samples, indicating the absence of long-range order typically seen in crystalline materials. Concurrently, the Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy examinations unveiled the existence of fundamental structural units within the glasses, including BO3 and BO4 trigonal and tetrahedral units, as well as BiO3 and BiO6 polyhedra, suggesting a complex network structure. Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) and dilatometry assessed the glasses' thermal properties. DTA demonstrated the glasses' high thermal stability, with a stability value of up to 106°C, noting that stability improves with more SrO. Dilatometry analyses revealed these glasses exhibit a high thermal expansion coefficient, ranging from 8.69 to 10.7 ppm/°C, alongside relatively low glass transition temperatures between 362 and 432°C and dilatometric softening temperatures spanning from 380 to 447°C. Density measurements were conducted, followed by molar volume and oxygen packing density calculations, to glean further insights into the samples. Compared to other heavy-metal oxide glasses, the glasses examined in this study exhibited notably high-density values, ranging between 6.279 and 7.476 g/cm3 .
RISING STARS: Evidence for established and emerging forms of β-cell death
Authors: Colglazier Kaitlyn A , Mukherjee Noyonika , Contreras Christopher J , Templin Andrew T
Published: June 2024

β-Cell death contributes to β-cell loss and insulin insufficiency in type 1 diabetes (T1D), and this β-cell demise has been attributed to apoptosis and necrosis. Apoptosis has been viewed as the lone form of programmed β-cell death, and evidence indicates that β-cells also undergo necrosis, regarded as an unregulated or accidental form of cell demise. More recently, studies in non-islet cell types have identified and characterized novel forms of cell death that are biochemically and morphologically distinct from apoptosis and necrosis. Several of these mechanisms of cell death have been categorized as forms of regulated necrosis and linked to inflammation and disease pathogenesis. In this review, we revisit discoveries of β-cell death in humans with diabetes and describe studies characterizing β-cell apoptosis and necrosis. We explore literature on mechanisms of regulated necrosis including necroptosis, ferroptosis and pyroptosis, review emerging literature on the significance of these mechanisms in β-cells, and discuss experimental approaches to differentiate between various mechanisms of β-cell death. Our review of the literature leads us to conclude that more detailed experimental characterization of the mechanisms of β-cell death is warranted, along with studies to better understand the impact of various forms of β-cell demise on islet inflammation and β-cell autoimmunity in pathophysiologically relevant models. Such studies will provide insight into the mechanisms of β-cell loss in T1D and may shed light on new therapeutic approaches to protect β-cells in this disease.
Reduced serum CLCF1 levels in hyperthyroidism patients and T3-treated mice
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Zhang Yanan , Yuan Youwen , Teng Fei , Lin Jiayang , Ye Xueru , Pan Yaojin , Zhang Huijie
Published: June 2024

Characteristic symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight loss, heart palpitation, and sweating. Thyroid hormones (TH) can stimulate thermogenesis through central and peripheral mechanisms. Previous studies have shown an association between dysfunction of cardiotrophin-like cytokine factor 1 (CLCF1) and cold-induced sweating syndrome, with recent research also indicating a link between CLCF1 and brown adipose tissue thermogenesis. However, it remains unclear whether CLCF1 and TH have synergistic or antagonistic effects on thermogenesis. This study aims to investigate the influence of thyroid hormone on circulating CLCF1 levels in humans and explore the potential possibilities of thyroid hormone in regulating energy metabolism by modulating Clcf1 in mice. By recruiting hyperthyroid patients and healthy subjects, we observed significantly lower serum CLCF1 levels in hyperthyroid patients compared to healthy subjects, with serum CLCF1 levels independently associated with hyperthyroidism after adjusting for potential confounders. Tissue analysis from mice treated with T3 revealed a decrease in CLCF1 expression in BAT and iWAT of C57BL/6 mice. These findings suggest that TH may play a role in regulating CLCF1 expression in adipose tissue.
Selección y análisis de vídeos en la formación inicial del profesorado de educación matemática infantil: rúbrica R4
Authors: Berciano Ainhoa , Salgado María , Alsina Ángel
Published: June 2024

[Objective] Although the use of classroom videos is not a new topic in the initial training of early childhood mathematics education teachers, there are still unresolved research questions associated, above all, with criteria for selecting and analyzing these videos from both a didactic and disciplinary approach. From this perspective, the purpose of this article is to design and validate a rubric that serves this dual purpose. [Methodology] Based on a qualitative research paradigm, a 4x3 process has been followed, that is, a method sequenced in four phases with three steps in each one of them: 1) Review; 2) Creation; 3) Contrast and Evaluation; and 4) Improvement. [Results] The final version of the rubric, called R4, consists of 28 items organized in four dimensions: 1) Teaching role, on the role of the teacher in the classroom; 2) Response of children in the task to his/her performance; 3) Mathematical relations, on the type of mathematics; 4) and Resources, on the management and use of human resources and materials. For each dimension, several subdimensions are considered, 16 in total. [Conclusions] It is concluded that the R4 rubric addresses fundamental aspects (Teaching role, Childrens’ response, Mathematical relations and Resources) in the teaching work of an early childhood education teacher, which allows analyzing the teaching practice in a holistic and justified way.