bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Societal Impacts of Generative Artificial Intelligence: A Balanced Perspective
Authors: Sabherwal Rajiv ,   University of Arkansas, Grover Varun ,   University of Arkansas
Published: January 2024

The discourse surrounding the societal impacts of generative artificial intelligence (GAI), exemplified
by technologies like ChatGPT, often oscillates between extremes: utopian visions of unprecedented
productivity and dystopian fears of humanity’s demise. This polarized perspective neglects the
nuanced, pragmatic manifestation of GAI. In general, extreme views oversimplify the technology itself
or its potential to address societal issues. The authors suggest a more balanced analysis, acknowledging
that GAI’s impacts will unfold dynamically over time as diverse implementations interact with human
stakeholders and contextual factors. While Big Tech firms dominate GAI’s supply, its demand is
expected to evolve through experimentation and use cases. The authors argue that GAI’s societal impact
depends on identifiable contingencies, emphasizing three broad factors: the balance between
automation and augmentation, the congruence of physical and digital realities, and the retention of
human bounded rationality. These contingencies represent trade-offs arising from GAI instantiations,
shaped by technological advancements, stakeholder dynamics, and contextual factors, including
societal responses and regulations. Predicting long-term societal effects remains challenging due to
unforeseeable discontinuities in the technology’s trajectory. The authors anticipate a continuous
interplay between GAI initiatives, technological advances, learning experiences, and societal
responses, with outcomes depending on the above contingencies.
Responsible Artificial Intelligence and Journal Publishing
Authors: Gregor Shirley ,   Australian National University
Published: January 2024

The aim of this opinion piece is to examine the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in relation to academic journal publishing. The work discusses approaches to AI with particular attention to recent developments with generative AI. Consensus is noted around eight normative themes for principles for responsible AI and their associated risks. A framework from Shneiderman (2022) for human-centered AI is employed to consider journal publishing practices that can address the principles of responsible AI at different levels. The resultant AI principled governance matrix (AI-PGM) for journal publishing shows how countermeasures for risks can be employed at the levels of the author-researcher team, the organization, the industry, and by government regulation. The AI-PGM allows a structured approach to responsible AI and may be modified as developments with AI unfold. It shows how the whole publishing ecosystem should be considered when looking at the responsible use of AI—not just journal policy itself.
INTERNET TECHNOLOGIES AS A POLITICAL MEANSOF INFLUENCING ON THE FORMATION OF PUBLIC OPINION (ON THE EXAMPLE OF FRG)
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Matsiopa Khrystyna
Published: January 2024

Information is an integral part of the modern society, the pace of which is accelerating and leading to an increase in the information needs of mankind. In turn, the latest information technologies contribute to the formation of a new, democratic style of social relations based on a dialogue between political forces and civil society, in which Internet technologies occupy a leading position and at the same time complement the instrumental arsenal of political technologies, in particular, on such an advanced issue as the formation of public opinion. It is noted that the community is increasingly paying attention to the development of democracy and civil society at the present stage, which contributes to the growth of public opinion in the modus of interrelation «government-citizens». The place and role of the phenomenon under study in the information and communication infrastructure of a new social formation formed by the accelerating pace of development of informatization and communication are analyzed. The author characterizes a wide range of progressive capabilities of network technologies as an effective means of political technologies in ensuring the achievement of policy goals. At the same time, it is emphasized the negative aspects of the use of digital tools associated with the realization of destructive motives in the form of manipulation, information network wars and other destructive operations, in accordance with the ways and forms of their operation within the practice of certain countries, social groups and individual representatives. The specifics of the use of Internet technologies in the processes of forming public opinion are considered on the basis of Germany’s practical experience in this area. The author shows that in countries with developed democracies there is an interrelation between political events in the country and public opinion, which, in turn, leads to an increase in the importance of bilateral communication between the government and citizens in the political sphere and its impact on political processes.
EVOLUTION OF THE MODERN AMERICAN SOCIAL CONTRACT
Authors:   Cherkasy National University named after Bohdan Khmelnytskyi (Cherkasy) Ukraine, Ratnikov Maxim
Published: January 2024

Part of the modern trends in the evolution of the social contract in the USA is disclosed in the article. The dynamics of development revolve around problematic issues: the role of the state in the economy, ways to eliminate economic inequality, racial discrimination, and religion. Each format of the social contract has its own ways of dealing with issues that do not have an easy answer: the «New Deal» delayed, the «neoliberal» contract did not avoid, and the «personal» social contract was guided by issues of the media conjuncture. The purpose of our article is to provide a brief overview of the evolution of the modern American social contract. To successfully achieve the goal set in the article, the works of exclusively English-speaking authors were used. The research is based on the principles of such methodological approaches as historical, sociological, comparative and some elements of static analysis. Political schemes are analyzed on the example of three social contracts of the USA. Each of them reflected unique approaches to political economy and social organization. The authors emphasize the tension and vulnerability of each social contract, which leads to a change in paradigms and the evolution of the political system. Such an analysis can be useful for understanding contemporary political, social, and cultural processes not only in the United States, but also in a global context.
Rupture Pattern of the 2015 Alor Earthquake Sequence, Indonesia
Authors: Nugroho Hendro , Hejrani Babak , Mousavi Sima , Miller Meghan S.
Published: January 2024

A sequence of earthquakes occurred on Alor Island, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia, beginning in November 2015 with the mainshock (Mw 6.2) on 4 November 2015. We calculate the centroid moment tensor (CMT) solutions for nine of the earthquakes with Mw≥3.9, which occurred between November 2015 and March 2016 using records from a temporary array of 30 broadband instruments in eastern Indonesia and Timor Leste (YS network). Our CMT results reveal an interesting pattern of ruptures in this order: (a) three foreshocks of Mw 4–5.3 all with strike-slip mechanisms that occurred with a centroid depth of ∼13 km in the three days prior to the mainshock, (b) the mainshock on 4 November 2015, with Mw 6.2 that occurred with a deeper centroid (∼25 km) and a strike-slip mechanism similar to the foreshocks, (c) followed by five aftershocks with Mw>3.9 at depth ∼3–15km. We further determine the fault plane and rupture direction of the mainshock and the largest foreshock (Mw 5.3) by relocating the hypocenter and examining its geometrical location with respect to the centroid. We find that the fault plane strikes 97°±9° from north and that the fault ruptures westward. We propose that the rupture of this sequence of events initiated at depth ∼10 km, propagating westward and triggering the mainshock to rupture at a deeper depth (within lower crust) on a similar faulting system. The aftershocks migrate back to shallower depths and occur mainly at depth <10 km.
Spatial Analysis of the Distribution of COVID-19 Vulnerable Groups to COVID-19 Cases in Brebes Regency
Authors: Fatimatuzzahro Fatimatuzzahro , Gayatri Rara Warih , Tama Tika Dwi
Published: January 2024

The number of COVID-19 cases in Brebes Regency within a year is still quite high. The elderly, Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus are the most important COVID-19 vulnerable groups and have the highest risk of death. The purpose of this study is to determine the distribution of COVID-19 vulnerable groups and their spatial relationship to COVID-19 cases in Brebes Regency. This study used a correlation or ecology study design. The data used is secondary data obtained from the Brebes Regency Health Office, namely the number of COVID-19 cases, the number of elderly, people with hypertension and diabetes mellitus in 2021. The data then analyzed using univariate, bivariate analysis and spatial analysis with the help of QuantumGIS software (QGIS). The results showed that the proportion of the elderly age group correlated with the number of COVID-19 cases (p value is 0.005), while the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes mellitus had no correlation with the number of COVID-19 cases (p value more than 0.05). The high-risk areas are Brebes, Wanasari, Banjarharjo and Bumiayu Districts. The existence of this study, the local government is expected to be able to optimize the Testing, Tracing and Treatment program (3T), posyandu for the elderly and achieve vaccination targets, especially in high elderly population areas, in order to detect and predict the spread of COVID-19 and the selection of appropriate treatment.
La littérature du FLE à l'épreuve de la perspective actionnelle: état des lieux
Authors: Segura Tornero Alfredo , Nuñez Morini Nadine
Published: January 2024

La présente étude vise à présenter un état des lieux de l´enseignement-apprentissage de la littérature en classe de FLE (Français langue étrangère) qui a connu une trajectoire assez tortueuse. Nous concevons cet article comme un parcours du texte littéraire en tant que ressource didactique. Notre démarche nous permettra de découvrir si le passage de l´appréciation littéraire se conçoit une fois que l´on domine la langue. Il serait donc intéressant d´examiner la place de la littérature dans le CECR et d´analyser ensuite les matériaux didactiques qui en découlent. Pendant une longue période, la littérature a été banalisée par ceux qui ne reconnaissaient pas sa spécificité ou sacralisée par d'autres qui la considéraient comme un objet inaccessible. Pourrait-on considérer une troisième voie dans laquelle les textes littéraires pourraient jouer un rôle décisif? Oubliée par le CECR (Cadre européen commun de référence) et considérée le plus souvent comme une option pédagogique où le texte littéraire était au service d’autres disciplines, la publication du Volume complémentaire en 2018 semble marquer un tournant vers son inclusion définitive avec la création de descripteurs spécifiques. Sans oublier les antécédents, la grandeur et la décadence, il semblerait légitime de se demander quelles sont les contributions de la perspective actionnelle –CECR et Volume– à la didactique de la littérature
A comparative analysis of online English language dictionaries and online Portuguese language dictionaries from the perspective of learning Portuguese as a foreign language
Authors: Orlando Maximiliano Eduardo
Published: January 2024

There are studies that have analysed Portuguese language dictionaries and that have highlighted the importance of the presence of examples in dictionaries (Santiago, 2012; Lu, 2018). Owing to this importance, it was decided to compare the frequencies of examples of two sets of words, namely, contrastive words and verbs that may convey recommendation or advice. These frequencies were obtained from a sample of the main body of Portuguese language dictionaries that are available online and from a sample of the main body of online English language dictionaries that have an orientation towards learning English as a foreign language. This comparison was carried out by using a search bar and a software application created by the author. From the analyses of the data which had been collected, it was argued that, in some cases, learners of Portuguese as a foreign language would have to make use of other sources of examples to learn to use the target words. On the other hand, in similar cases, the need to use sources of examples apart from those presented in the main body of the target English language dictionaries, while learning the English language, could be reduced. The pedagogical implications of this argument for learning and teaching Portuguese as a foreign language were presented. The limitations of the present study and future research possibilities were also discussed.
Prototipicidade, marcaxe prepositiva e suxeito no galego medieval
Authors: Rodríguez Guerra Alexandre
Published: January 2024

Na presente investigación estúdase a configuración sintáctica que adoptan os argumentos Estímulo, Entidade e Suceso, analizados tradicionalmente como suxeitos, cos verbos de sensación, conveniencia e suceso no galego medieval. Con base nun corpus dos ss. XIII a XV, analízanse as realizacións deses argumentos dende diferentes criterios (tipos de unidade, animación, marcaxe...). Alén das raíces latinas destas construcións, reflexiónase sobre a (non) prototipicidade destes constituíntes argumentais á luz, fundamentalmente, da marcación prepositiva nalgúns esquemas construcionais no galego medieval.
The Investigation of the Secondary School Students' Acceptance Levels of Flipped Mathematics Classroom
Authors: AÇIKGÜL Kübra , YAĞMURLU Mübeccel Ahsen
Published: January 2024

In this study, it is aimed to determine the secondary school students' acceptance levels of flipped mathematics classroom and to examine their acceptance levels in terms of gender, grade level, internet access, and perception of ability in learning mathematics alone at home. Another aim of the present study is to determine whether students' autonomous learning levels predict their acceptance levels of flipped mathematics classroom. The research was carried out using descriptive and correlational survey model. The study group of the research consisted of 345 secondary school students. The Personal Information Form, Flipped Mathematics Classroom Acceptance Scale, and Autonomous Learning Scale were used as data collection tools. As a result of the research, it was determined that the students' acceptance of flipped mathematics classroom was at a good level. While the acceptance levels of the students did not differ according to the variables of gender and grade level, statistically significant differences were determined in terms of the variables of the internet access and the perception of ability in learning mathematics alone at home. In addition, it was determined in the present study that students' autonomous learning levels were statistically significant predictors of their acceptance levels of flipped mathematics classroom.
Vale John Burke (1942–2023)
Authors: Holmes Jim
Published: January 2024

John Burke was a long-term member of TelSoc, a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of this Journal, and Convenor of TelSoc’s Broadband Futures Group. His sudden and unexpected death on 24 August 2023 was received with shock and great sadness by his colleagues in many fields, including in TelSoc and the ex-Telstra diaspora. This tribute focusses on John Burke’s substantial contribution over a long period to the telecommunications sector, but provides some indication of the other work that he did over his 81 years for the various communities of interest of which he was part. John believed in the power of informed communities to take action to improve society in terms of equitable outcomes and opportunity, and persistently acted on that principle.
Transgenerational Trauma Unfolded: A Qualitative Case Study of a Young Child’s Psychothera-py
Authors: Grünbaum Liselotte
Published: January 2024

This qualitative research study concerns the complexity of the concept of transgenerational trauma as unfolded in a child psychotherapy with a 3½-7 ys. old boy, referred for psychological assessment and treatment because of severe developmental delay, prolonged separation protests and oppositional behaviour. A systematic inductive-deductive qualitative analysis of the therapist’s detailed notes of therapy sessions was carried out. This yielded four intertwined sources of anxiety in mind of the young child, together blocking his mental-emotional development: 1) Introjective identification with parental trauma and loss. 2) His own traumatic anxiety left by a dog attack and an episode of stone-throwing. 3) Precocious awareness of social discrimination. 4) Age-appropriate, but undigested developmental phantasy and related anxiety, conflict, and defense. In conclusion, this study elucidates the complexity of second generation experience, even in young children, when considered in the psychosocial context of growing up. We know that severe retardation of early development may have lasting consequences for the child’s further personality development and cognitive abilities. It is therefore vital that psychological and medical practitioners working with massively traumatised parents are aware of the complex relationships between parental anxiety and their young children’s development of attachment and related separation-individuation.
The transcription factors ISL-1 and MAFA, but not NKX6-1 Characterize a Stem-cell Derived Population of Endocrine Pancreatic Cells Capable of Controlling blood Glucose in Rodent Models of Diabetes
Authors: Ratiu Jeremy , Southard Sheryl , Rust William
Published: January 2024

A stem cell line, derived by reprogramming native human islet cells, consistently generates pure populations of endocrine pancreatic clusters following differentiation cues. Two protocols were developed directing the differentiation of that cell line to pancreatic cells that expressed or lacked expression of the key beta cell maturation-associated factor NKX6-1. The population of stem cell derived endocrine pancreatic clusters that was most consistently capable of regulating blood glucose in rodent models of diabetes lacked NKX6-1 but did manifest high expression of other key drivers of endocrine cell specification and maturation, ISL1 and MAFA. These data support the hypothesis that MAFA and ISL-1, but not NKX6-1, are reliable in vitro markers of committed endocrine pancreatic cells. The population with low NKX6-1 and high in vivo potency was further characterized by transcriptome profiling as an endocrine-committed population progressively maturing in vitro to a state proximal to the native islet.
A View on the Determenistic Explanation of Actions Based on the Joint Construction of Goals and Means
Authors: Prudkov Pavel , Rodina Olga
Published: January 2024

People describe and explain everyday behavior and cognition in terms of actions, that are goal-directed processes. There are two conventional approaches explaining the construction of goal-directed processes (predetermined goals and means and the separate and arbitrary construction of goals and means). However, these approaches cannot elucidate the flexibility and diversity of actions and some characteristics of thinking. We hypothesize the goal and means of an action are constructed jointly on the basis of the criterion of minimal construction costs and this entirely determines actions. Some ideas in favor of this mechanistic explanation of actions and objections against it are considered. The idea that the mechanism of joint construction entirely determines actions was examined in an experiment when participants were informed on the joint construction mechanism and instructed to violate its functioning by performing an action. Participants could violate the functioning of the mechanism at two levels of the action but information about one level was more explicit than about another level. It was assumed that participants would violate the functioning of the mechanism only at one level. This means that joint construction really determines actions because a sort of compliance between these levels was necessary to perform the action. This assumption was confirmed experimentally.
Resiliencia y sostenibilidad en los códigos de construcción de América Latina y el Caribe: análisis regional comparativo y oportunidades de fortalecimiento
Authors: Alvear Alexandra , Campos José Pedro , Ciancio Julia , Dalaison Wilhelm , De Angelis Gabriella , Escovar María Alejandra , Madrid Hernán , Narváez Rodrigo , Pedrasa Francisca , Porta García Raimon , Suarez Ginés , Zambrano Adriana
Published: January 2024

Los códigos de construcción son un factor determinante para el incremento de la resiliencia de la infraestructura, incorporando la gestión del riesgo de desastres y la adaptación al cambio climático. La existencia, calidad, carácter legal y nivel de cumplimiento de los códigos definen las bases sobre las cuales se debe desarrollar el ambiente construido y la fiabilidad de los servicios basados en infraestructura física. Esta publicación presenta el resultado del análisis comparativo y entrevistas a expertos sobre códigos de sismos, vientos, inundaciones, y certificaciones y sellos de sostenibilidad de los 26 países prestatarios del BID. El análisis concluye que la región tiene un importante avance en el desarrollo de códigos sísmicos y de viento, mientras que la amenaza por inundación poco se integra en los códigos de construcción y se enfrenta de forma reactiva. También se concluye que la región ha venido dando pasos acelerados para incorporar aspectos de sostenibilidad de los proyectos de infraestructura edilicia, que aún no se integra a los códigos de construcción. El estudio incluye recomendaciones para avanzar hacia una construcción resiliente en América Latina y el Caribe.
What Works to Improve Lives?: What Works to Improve Government Efficiency, Tax Compliance, and Financial Resilience
Authors: Bosch Mariano , Frisancho Verónica , Gerardino María Paula , Mitnik Oscar A. , Pierri Gastón , Scartascini Carlos
Published: January 2024

This publication is one of a series of five monographs produced by the Inter-American Development Bank to take stock of the lessons learned from impact evaluations of investments supported by the IDB Group for over a decade across a wide range of economic and social development sectors. In light of increasing demand in recent years for higher-quality public services in Latin America and the Caribbean, this monograph examines programs and policies that can help governments improve how they fund and provide these services to their people. Specifically, it reviews the evidence on ways to improve government efficiency, public spending, taxation, and financial resilience. Key lessons on “what works” include using information and communication technology to improve government processes and reduce costs, increasing tax compliance through architectural or messaging “nudges,” and identifying innovative ways to encourage citizens to save.
Addressing Heteroscedasticity in Correlated Binary Data: A Bayesian Mixed Effects Location Scale Approach
Authors: Rezanejad-Asl Parisa , Zayeri Farid , Hajifathali Abbas
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The mixed effects logistic regression model is a common model for analysing correlated binary data as longitudinal data. The between and within subject variances are typically considered to be homogeneous but longitudinal data often show heterogeneity in these variances. This study proposes a Bayesian mixed effects location scale model to accommodate heteroscedasticity in binary data analysis.
Methods: This study was carried out in two stages; first, the simulation study was used to evaluate the accuracy of the proposed model with the Bayesian approach and then the proposed model was applied to a real data. In simulation study, the data were generated from the mixed effects location scale model with different correlations between the random location effect and random scale effect and different sample sizes. In order to evaluate the accuracy of the estimations, the Root Mean Square Error, bias and Coverage Probability were calculated and the deviance information criterion was used to select the appropriate model. At the end we utilized this model to analyse uric acid levels of patients with haematological disorders.
Results: The simulation results show the accuracy of model parameter estimates as well as the correlation between random location and scale effects. They also display that if a random scale effect is present in the data, it should be accounted for in model. Otherwise, the model is forced to assign the within subject variation due to these subject random effects to the error term. The results of real data are also in line with this. The odds of having normal UA levels increases by a factor of 26% per week. Due to the positive value of the covariance parameter, patients with higher mean of UA levels show higher variation in UA levels. Furthermore, the significance of the covariates in the between subject and within subject variances model, as well as the significance of the random scale variance determines the heterogeneity across subjects.
Conclusion: Bayesian mixed effects location scale model provides a useful tool for analysing correlated binary data with heteroscedasticity because it considers data correlation and modelling mean and variance simultaneously. Furthermore, it improves the accuracy of statistical inference in longitudinal studies compared to classic mixed effects models.
Quantile Regression in Survival Analysis: Comparing Check-Based Modeling and the Minimum Distance Approach
Authors: Mokhtarpour Fereshteh , Hosseini Mostafa , Yazdani Akram , Yaseri Mehdi
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Quantile regression is a valuable alternative for survival data analysis, enabling flexible evaluations of covariate effects on survival outcomes with intuitive interpretations. It offers practical computation and reliability. However, challenges arise when applying quantile regression to censored data, particularly for upper quantiles. The minimum distance approach, utilizing dual-kernel estimation and the inverse cumulative distribution function, shows promise in addressing these challenges, especially with higher-dimensional covariates.
Methods: This study contrasts two methods within the realm of quantile linear regression for survival analysis: check-based modeling and the minimum distance approach. Effectiveness is assessed across various scenarios through comprehensive simulation.
Results: The simulation results showed that using the quantile regression model with the minimum distance approach reduces the percentage of root mean square error in parameter estimation compared to the quantile regression models based on the check loss function. Additionally, a larger sample size and reduced censoring percentage led to decreased root mean square error in parameter estimation.
Conclusion: The research highlights the benefits of using the minimum distance approach for quantile regression. It reduces errors, improves model predictions, captures patterns, and optimizes parameters even with complete data. However, this approach has limitations. The accuracy of estimated quantiles can be influenced by the choice of distance metric and weighting scheme. The assumption of independence between censoring mechanism and survival time may not hold in real-world scenarios. Additionally, dealing with large datasets can be computationally complex.
Odontogenic lesions associated with impacted teeth: A 5-year retrospective institutional study
Authors: Vaez Reza , Moradzadeh Khiavi Monir , Abdal Khadijeh , Borhani Hossein
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Odontogenic lesions related to impacted teeth are common findings in routine dental exams, with the potential to cause tooth pain, displacement, bone expansion, or even bone erosion. Thus, their early detection is important. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of such lesions based on patient age, gender, and location at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences, School of Dentistry, over five years.
Materials and Methods: This retrospective study evaluated records from the Oral Pathology Department, covering a five-year period. The association of odontogenic lesions with impacted teeth was assessed. Data on lesion type, patient age and gender, involved jaw, lesion location, and affected teeth were extracted from patient records. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 24.
Results: Out of 815 odontogenic lesions, 44.4% were associated with impacted teeth. The patient distribution was 52.48% male and 47.52% female. Lesions were most prevalent in the third decade of life (24.58%), and third molars (59.39%) were frequently involved. The posterior mandible (68.5%) and mandibular third molar (55%) were common sites. Dentigerous cysts had the highest frequency (35.4%), with odontogenic cysts (developmental) occurring more frequently (70.7%) than odontogenic tumors.
Conclusion: The study underscores a significant association between odontogenic lesions and impacted or unerupted teeth. Periodic follow-ups are crucial for retaining impacted teeth based on these findings.
Examining the criteria of human dignity
Authors: Jafari Seyed Abdosaleh , Araminia Behin , Tavasoli Hanieh , Tavasoli Nafiseh , Abedi Soheil , Bakhshe Ahmad Fayaz
Published: January 2024

One of the critical aspects in discussing human dignity is the establishment of its criterion, a standard unique to humans. This criterion should effectively create a fundamental and structural distinction from other creatures. Initially, our focus was on the endeavors of biologists to differentiate the human species from others, emphasizing the physical aspects. However, physical and genetic differences lack the necessary characteristics to serve as a criterion for dignity. Subsequently, we explored the notion of this criterion in human behavior. Yet, given that behavior stems from human thought, it proves unsuitable as a criterion for dignity. Thus, our quest led us to explore human wisdom. However, since wisdom, like other abilities, serves as a tool for improved living and is present to some extent in other animals, it proves inadequate as a criterion. We have determined that the distinguishing characteristic lies in the power of choice or free will, setting humans apart from other living beings whose behavior is solely instinctual or driven by needs. Consequently, free choice forms the foundation of dignity, assigning value to the chooser based on the choices made.
Psychometric evaluation of the Persian version of the perception of conscience questionnaire in Iranian nurses
Authors: Hasani Seyed Alireza , Nazari Roghieh , Shahsavari Hooman , Ramim Tayeb , Jodaki Kurosh
Published: January 2024

Conscience is defined as the cornerstone of ethics and is considered a valuable asset. There is, however, little evidence about how Iranian nurses perceive conscience. The purpose of this study was to psychometrically evaluate the Persian version of the Perception of Conscience Questionnaire (PCQ) in Iranian nurses. In this cross-sectional and descriptive study, a psychometric evaluation of the PCQ was conducted on Iranian nurses in 2022. A total of 300 nurses participated in this study to validate the PCQ. At first, the initial translation and determination of face validity was done, and content validity was assessed using the Content Validity Index and Content Validity Ratio. Reliability was determined by intra-class correlation coefficient and Cronbach's alpha coefficient.
The construct validity of the PCQ was determined by exploratory factor analysis, which led to the extraction of five factors of warning signal, valuable asset, spiritual power, burden and conscience outcomes from the initial 14 factors of the questionnaire. Reliability of the whole questionnaire was calculated to be 0.80 using Cronbach's alpha. While an intra-class correlation coefficient of 0.58 indicated average stability, the five-factor construct of the PCQ showed good validity and reliability. Therefore, our findings proved that this tool is suitable for assessing Iranian nurses’ perception of conscience.
Ethical issues experienced by otolaryngologists: a conventional content analysis
Authors: Moosavi Soolmaz , Zandpoor Zahra , Zarandi Masood Motasadi , Shojaei AmirAhmad , Parsapoor Alireza
Published: January 2024

To deliver effective medical services and establish trust and psychological security in patients, care providers must prioritize ethical principles. Developing a comprehensive clinical education program for learners, along with specific ethical guidelines, and implementing managerial and executive interventions necessitates a thorough understanding of the ethical challenges within this field. This qualitative study aimed to elucidate the ethical issues faced by otolaryngologists. Sixteen otolaryngologists participated in the study, selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, and the analysis, conducted through conventional content analysis, revealed eight main categories and 38 subcategories encapsulating the identified ethical issues.
The primary categories encompassed ethical issues faced by otolaryngologists concerning patients and companions, education, communication with the treatment team, physicians' rights, medical tourism, medical advertising, cultural considerations, and managerial challenges. resources and treatment approaches in alignment with Iranian cultural norms, address conflicts between treatment and education, and implement sound management plans to uphold rights of the treatment team. Additionally, the study suggests the necessity of ethical advertising programs and the strategic promotion of therapeutic tourism.
Health Outcomes of COVID-19 ICU Survivors: A Review Article
Authors: Hayat Hadi
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant number of patients requiring ICU admission. Survivors of COVID-19 who have been treated in the ICU may experience a decrease in their quality of life (QOL) due to physical, psychological, and social consequences. This review study aims to evaluate the QOL of ICU survivors of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: To conduct this review, a systematic literature search was performed using the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases. Studies published between January 2020 and July 2023 were included in this review. The search strategy included keywords such as COVID-19, Intensive Care Units, Survivors, Quality of Life, Outcome Measures.
Results: The initial search identified 113 studies, of which 16 met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. The QOL of ICU survivors of the COVID-19 pandemic was found to be significantly lower than that of the general population, with physical, psychological, and social impairments being the most commonly reported consequences. The use of rehabilitation interventions, such as early mobility and exercise, were found to improve QOL in ICU survivors of the COVID19 pandemic.
Conclusion: COVID-19 patients who require hospitalization and ICU admission may experience short-term and long-term physical, cognitive, emotional, and societal complications and effects after hospital discharge. These complications can significantly impact the patients' health-related quality of life, physical functioning, and psychological well-being.
Investıgatıon of the Relatıonshıp of Two-Glass Test Wıth Prostate Bıopsy and the Presence and Grade of Asymptomatıc Prostate Inflammatıon In Men Wıth Serum Prostate-Specıfıc Antıgen Level Between 2.5-10 Ng/Ml
Authors: YÜKSEL Alpaslan , TEKİN Ali , ŞENOĞLU Yusuf , BABA Dursun , GAMSIZKAN Mehmet
Published: January 2024

Objective: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a marker used to detect prostate cancer. When high PSA values are detected, a prostate biopsy is performed considering the possibility of prostate cancer. PSA elevation is not specific to prostate cancer, but may also be caused by conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urinary tract infection, and chronic prostatitis. Prostate cancer is not detected in approximately 66% of patients undergoing a biopsy, and patients are exposed to unnecessary biopsy and biopsy complications. Chronic prostatitis is detected in approximately 40% of these biopsies. The two-glass test is based on examining urine before and after rectal examination, which is used in diagnosing chronic prostatitis. In this study, we aimed to reveal the two-glass test’s effectiveness in predicting the incidence of prostatitis and inflammation in patients with a PSA value of 2.5-10 ng/ml and who underwent prostate needle biopsy.

Methods: Fifty-two male patients, aged between 50 and 78 years, with PSA values between 2.5 and 10 ng/ml, who applied to our clinic were included in the study. EPS-two-glass test and prostate biopsy were applied to all patients. EPS; is a sample obtained by removing the fluid from the urethra after a prostate massage; VB-3; shows the urine produced by taking about 10 ml of urine voided after massage. EPS and VB3 detect prostate infection. Under the microscope, ≥10 leukocytes were considered significant for prostate inflammation. According to the pathology results, the patients were divided into 3 groups; prostate cancer, BPH, and chronic prostatitis. The chronic prostatitis group was classified according to the histopathological calcification described by Nickel.

Results: In this study, the ratio of chronic prostatitis was found to be 38%. VB3 positivity was found to be statistically significant in the chronic prostatitis group compared to the other groups (p = 0.028). Although there was no statistically significant difference between the prevalence of inflammation and PSA elevation, PSA was found to be higher in the multifocal inflammation subgroup than in the focal inflammation patient group.

Conclusion: The relationship between chronic prostatitis and PSA elevation remains a mystery. Although no statistical relationship was found between inflammation and PSA elevation in this study, the significant correlation between chronic prostatitis and VB3 positivity reinforces the possibility of this relationship. We believe that our results will form the basis for further studies to avoid unnecessary biopsies.
Analyzing Short and Medium-Term Morbidity and Mortality in Patients with Heart Failure and Borderline Ejection Fraction (EF: 40-49%).
Authors: BENCHEBOUB I. BENCHEBOUB , TALEB BENDIAB N. , GHALMI A. , CHERIFI Y.M.S. , BENKHEDDA S.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Heart failure with moderately impaired ejection fraction (HFmEF) has garnered increasing attention in recent years. However, understanding this new phenotype, particularly concerning morbidity and mortality, remains limited.
Materials and Methods: A prospective, observational, and single-center study spanning 26 months was conducted on 204 patients with HFmEF selected from 447 patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) categorized based on their left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF): HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) if LVEF ≤ 40% (n = 173) and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) if LVEF ≥ 50% (n = 70). This study included a detailed evaluation of factors precipitating cardiovascular (CV) death and rehospitalizations in patients with HFmEF.
Results: After a mean follow-up of 431 days in the HFmEF patient group, our results indicated that CV mortality at six months was 2.5%, and at one year, it was 5.9%. Prognostic factors for survival included chronic kidney disease, blood glucose level > 1.4g/l, presence of moderate to severe secondary mitral insufficiency, sphericity index < 1.7, elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, and resistance to diuretic treatment. HF rehospitalization rates at 6 and 12 months were 2.5% and 8.3%, respectively. Predictive factors for HF rehospitalizations included diabetes, hemoglobin level < 13g/dl, left atrial volume > 34 ml/m3-, mitral S-wave < 0.05cm/s, non-improvement of global longitudinal strain, and resistance to diuretic treatment.
Conclusion: This category of HF remains underrecognized and neglected by practitioners, and its prognosis is formidable, especially in the presence of adverse prognostic factors.
Анализ комплексных корней характеристического полинома преобразования Прони в скользящем окне при обработке записей ЭЭГ
Authors: Немирович-Данченко Михаил Михайлович
Published: January 2024

Рассматривается преобразование Прони применительно к записям данных электроэнцефалограммы. На промежуточном этапе преобразования Прони вычисляются корни полинома, характеризующие частоту и затухание исследуемого сигнала. Для обрабатываемых рядов из действительных чисел корни полинома Прони всегда будут комплексно-сопряженными числами. Расположение этих корней внутри единичного круга наглядно характеризует преобразованный сигнал. Из исследовательской биометрической базы записей МГУ выбраны записи электроэнцефалограмм для операторов, находящихся в состоянии покоя и в состоянии выполнения мысленных движений. Выполнение для выбранных записей преобразования Прони в скользящем окне с последующим отображением полученных корней полинома Прони внутри единичного круга позволяет выявить паттерны ЭЭГ, отличающие состояние покоя человека от состояния мысленного движения, то есть выделить так называемые мысленные корреляты.
Программная реализации псевдолинейного корректирующего устройства с раздельными каналами для амплитуды и фазы в промышленном управлении
Authors: Ли Чжэньбэй , Скороспешкин Максим Владимирович
Published: January 2024

Рассматривается подход к повышению качества управления нестационарным объектом путем включения в систему автоматического регулирования псевдолинейного корректирующего устройства с раздельными каналами для амплитуды и фазы. Корректирующее устройство позволяет повышать запас устойчивости по амплитуде и по фазе независимо друг от друга и независимо от амплитуды входного сигнала. Корректирующему устройству можно придать свойство адаптивности – меняя параметры настройки корректирующего устройства, можно повысить качество управления нестационарным объектом в режиме реального времени. Приведена модель системы автоматического регулирования объектом второго порядка с ПИД-регулятором и псевдолинейным корректирующим устройством. Показан пример программной реализации псевдолинейного корректирующего устройства с раздельными каналами для амплитуды и фазы в виде функционального блока на языке FBD на платформе CoDeSys 2.3.
Simultaneous Assessment of the Nitrates and Nitrites in the Ground Water Samples using Optical Spectrophotometry and Validating the Appropriate Wavelength of Measurement
Authors: Devakumari M. Suguna , Shahbazi Kimia
Published: January 2024

Background: Nitrate is a renowned pollutant in water and soil. Nitrate is used mostly as a nitrogen fertilizer. When nitrate seeps into the ground it can get into drinking water. Traces of nitrite and nitrate in drinking water may lead to methemoglobinemia in infants and with long term exposure is a possible cancer risk. Concentration of nitrate above 45 mg/L as nitrate and 10 mg/L as nitrate-nitrogen is unsuitable for domestic use according to BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards). Methods: Nitrates are mainly determined by the spectrometric, colorimetric and ion chromatography methods. Majority of these methods are slow measurement, laborious and require the use of toxic and expensive reagents. In this study, ultraviolet spectrophotometric method is utilized for detection of nitrate optically with no chemical reagents. This method is simple and cost-effective. Nitrate and nitrite concentrations were analysed at various wavelengths (220 to 370 nm) and 240 nm was found to be efficient for detecting both nitrate and nitrite. Result: Various groundwater samples in and around Karunya Campus and nearby residential places, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu were analysed and compared with one borewell water sample from West Bengal State which was prone to contaminated ground water. The results show that all the ground water samples have nitrate and nitrite concentration within the permissible limit but the sample from West Bengal has higher concentration compared to Coimbatore samples.
Genetic Polymorphism of Growth Hormone Gene in Dorper Sheep using PCR-RFLP
Authors: Madikadike Molabe Kagisho , Tyasi Thobela Louis , Mbazima Vusi , Gunya Busisiwe
Published: January 2024

Background: The growth hormone gene has a significant impact on postnatal longitudinal growth and development as well as the metabolism of protein, carbohydrates, and fats moreover its effects indirectly relate to bone and skeletal development. The objective of the study was to identify a single nucleotide polymorphism of the growth hormone gene and its association with growth traits in Dorper sheep. Methods: Data were collected from 50 Dorper sheep of 1 to 2 years of age at the University of Limpopo Experimental farm. The objective of the study was achieved by Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism and General Linear Model (GLM). Result: PCR-RFLP reports revealed different segment patterns resulting in two genotypes such as AA and AB genotypes. Marker-traits association analysis showed that no significant difference was observed between AA and AB genotypes regarding all the measured traits except with wither height and AA genotype was remarkably related to higher withers height than AB genotype. It can be concluded that GH1 could be used as a genetic marker for marker-assisted selection (MAS) during breeding for the improvement of withers height.
La Vagabonde(1910) de Colette: une possibilité de l'autofiction et sa signification
Authors:   Société d’Etudes Franco-coréennes, LEE Chae-young
Published: January 2024

Parmi les oeuvres de Colette, Lo, Naissance du jour(1928) est généralement considérée comme la première autofiction. Malgré cela, cette étude émet l'hypothèse que La, Vagabonde(1910) de Colette pourrait être une autofiction. En effet, c'est une oeuvre qui mélange la fiction et le récit autobiographique. Nous supposons également que de nombreuses caractéristiques de l'autofiction se retrouvent dans cet ouvrage, bien que le nom de ‘l'auteur’ et celui du ‘narrateur et du protagoniste’ soient différents.
Pour examiner la possibilité que ce roman soit une autofiction, nous envisagerons d'abord l'évolution et les caractéristiques de l'autofiction. Nous réfléchirons ensuite à l'effet de l'autofiction et la valeur de cette oeuvre chez Colette vers 1910. Nous espérons que cette étude aidera enfin à comprendre les styles d'écriture de Colette.
L'usage de footage d'archives pour la représentation de l'Histoire:
Authors:   Société d’Etudes Franco-coréennes, CHO Kyoung Hee
Published: January 2024

Cet article s'interroge sur la représentation de l'Histoire dans le cinéma par l'analyse du film intitulé Retour à Reims [Fragments] réalisé en 2021 par Jean-Gabriel Périot. Le documentaire reprend certains extraits marquants de l'essai éponyme du sociologue Didier Eribon et illustre son propos par l'utilisation et le montage d'images d'archives de différentes natures (reportages télévisés, films de fiction, films militants) mettant en scène des ouvriers français du début des années 50 à aujourd'hui. Quelles sont les fonctions sémiotiques et formelles des images d'archives lorsqu'elles accompagnent un acte de mémoire intime du narrateur ? En quoi la sélection et le remontage d'images d'archives constituent un matériau permettant de représenter des questions sociales, politiques et historiques? Dans quelle mesure la combinaison d'un texte narratif associé à des images d'archives permet de repenser la représentation de l'Histoire?