bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluative Utterance in the English Fictional Discourse (19th and the First Half of the 20th Century)
Authors:   Donetsk National University, Byessonova Olga , Ostashova Oksana ,   Donetsk National University
Published: August 2022

The article addresses evaluative utterance, which is considered in terms of its subject-matter, semantics and structure on the material of British and American fictional discourse of the 19 th and the first half of the 20th centuries. The classification of value-related objects of evaluation as reflected in the fictional discourse of the selected periods is presented. The suggested classification incorporates evaluative utterances describing two thematic spheres, i.e. "Human being" and "Surrounding world". The dynamics of positive and negative evaluative utterance types in the period under study is described. The proportion of emotional and rational components in the complex meaning of evaluative utterances is determined. Trends in evolution of semantic types of evaluative utterances in the English fictional discourse of the 19th and the first half of the 20th centuries are brought into the open. Structural types of sentences, in which evaluative attitude is verbalized, are singled out, with their communicative productivity being identified and compared. The structural components of the evaluative predicate are outlined. Frequency value of morphological-and-semantic evaluative means and means of a mixed type is identified in the fictional discourse under analysis. Means of modifying the expressiveness degree in the evaluative utterances are described. The suggested approach to the evaluative utterances in the fictional discourse demonstrates the dynamics of axiological worldview of the speaking community. The growing trends for communicative compression and transparency, for the increase in emotiveness of evaluative utterances and a greater degree of gradation of the evaluative attribute, as well as the corresponding language changes, related to the phenomenon of evaluative utterance, are reflected in the linguistic worldview.
Gender-Relevant Features of Imposing Expert Opinion in Online Communication of Pandemic Period
Authors:   Pyatigorsk State University, Gukosyants Olga
Published: August 2022

The article is devoted to the identification of gender peculiarities in applying the strategy of expert opinion demonstration as one of the ways to manipulate recipients on the Internet. On the basis of linguistic analysis of English blogs with expert content selected by the method of continuous sampling, specific speech tactics which express gender identity in the process of expert opinion presentation are characterized. The interdependence between the functional load of the blogs and the speech tools used by the bloggers is established and analyzed. It was revealed that female experts implemented the tactics of uncertainty, justification and intimacy expressed in conditional sentences, just to convey hesitation, means of semantic hyperbolization of speech, appeal to another person's opinion and the results of other people's research, quotes, dialogicity of utterances in the blogs. The blogs created by male experts featured implementation of the tactics of we-community, knowledge demonstration, intimidation, beliefs with high degree of textual cohesion, description of negative scenario in case of the expert's recommendations ignoring, rhetorical questions and adverb instead embedding, negative constructions and verbs in the imperative mood. The identified tactics and speech means used for these tactics implementation are qualified as gender markers of manipulative influence on the user through the expression of expert opinion.
Step-Change Improvements in Traceable Process Control Thermometry
Authors: Pearce Jonathan V. , Tucker Declan L. , Veltcheva Radka I. , Machin Graham
Published: August 2022

Measurement and control of process temperature is key to maximising product quality, optimising efficiency, reducing waste, safety and minimising carbon dioxide and other harmful emissions. Drift of temperature sensor calibration due to environmental factors such as high temperature, vibration, contamination and ionising radiation results in a progressively worsening temperature measurement error, which in turn results in suboptimal processes. Here we outline some new developments to overcome sensor calibration drift and so provide assured temperature measurement in process, including self-validating thermocouples, embedded temperature reference standards, and practical primary Johnson noise thermometry where the temperature is measured directly without the need for any calibration. These new developments will give measurement assurance by either providing measurements which are inherently stable, or by providing an in situ calibration facility to enable the detection and correction of calibration drift.
Online Podcast Production as Co-Creation for Intercultural Participation in Neighbourhood Development
Authors: Barbarino Robert , Herlo Bianca , Bergmann Malte
Published: August 2022

This article describes the usage of an online podcast workshop as an arts-based research method to reflect on intercultural participation. The podcast workshop was co-developed by researchers, local civil society actors, and administrative employees and deployed in a research infrastructure based on real-world labs. We show how the online podcast workshop as a research tool elicits co-creation with agonistic as well as communicative practices. The podcast combined practices of making with socially engaged research, using digital storytelling. It aimed at enhancing intercultural dialogue and participation and was used as an opportunity for voices that are not sufficiently represented in local public discourse on neighbourhood development to become recognised and challenge marginalisation. Based on one online podcast workshop, the article addresses new possibilities for collective and collaborative action during the Covid-19 pandemic and frames the podcast as a moderated place for exchange and reflection in the digital space. The podcast workshop intended to foster further discussion on the topic of intercultural participation and was conceived as a tool for empowerment that participants can use for further conversations and exchange in their communities.
ON THE QUESTION OF LOGICAL ANALYSIS OF ARGUMENTATION IN LEGAL DISCOURSE
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Shcherbyna Olena
Published: August 2022

The article highlights the main problems that arise during the logical analysis of argumentation in legal discourse. Based on the author's approach to understanding the logical analysis of legal argumentation, the possibilities of overcoming them are proposed. According to the author, in the process of conducting a logical analysis of argumentation in legal discourse, the following interrelated problems arise: the first is a problem associated with an ambiguous understanding of the meaning of the word "logic" when it is used in research on legal argumentation (logic as a science or a certain logical theory, logic as a model, formal or informal logic); the second is a problem related to the existence of different interpretations of the concept of "logical analysis", as a result of which there is uncertainty in the use of methods and means of conducting such an analysis. The following possible steps to overcome these problems are proposed: firstly, in research on legal argumentation, when conducting a logical analysis of argumentation in legal discourse the meaning of the word "logic" should be noted (logic as a science or a certain logical theory, logic as a model, formal or informal logic), used in this context; secondly, in the process of such an analysis, clearly define the meaning of the used concepts "analysis", and "model"; thirdly, to proceed from the fact that taking into account that formal and informal elements are connected in legal thinking, the logical analysis of legal argumentation can be understood as the application of methods, techniques, means of all logical knowledge in solving its problems.
TRANSCENDENTAL IMPLICATIONS OF J.-L. NANCY-S CONCEPTION OF FREEDOM: DECONSTRUCTIVE PERSPECTIVE
Authors:   H.S. Skovoroda Institute of Philosophy of the NAS of Ukraine, Ilyina Anna
Published: August 2022

The article undertakes theoretic and historico-philosophical reconstruction of J.-L. Nancy's conception of freedom in the scope of transcendental way of thinking, namely in its deconstructive mode. Examining Nancy-s work "Experience of Freedom", as well as text by J. Derrida "On Touching – Jean-Luc Nancy" the author, by the use of her own methodological approach to transcendental discourse, brings to light a number of transcendental and deconstructive motives, inherent in Nancy-s discourse of freedom. The paper establishes that one of transcendental traits of Nancy's conception is a conferring to the concept of freedom the excessive position in system of philosophical discourse. Accordingly, applicability to freedom (as an idea and a notion) of traditional philosophical operations – such as questioning, reflection etc. is called into doubt. Freedom proves to be condition of possibility of philosophical thinking in general. Also are laid bare such transcendental aspects of idea of freedom, in its Nancian treatment, as: asubstantivity (it causes deconstruction of traditional subject-centric conception of freedom, at the heart of which is understanding of subject as substance); connection with problematic of margin or limit (in particular, freedom is considered as limit boundary of thinking); hyperbolicity (which presupposes "autonomy" and at the same time auto-transcendence of hyperbolized element: this implicates a possible openness to the possible other); careful attention to the problem of experience (which serves as "middle term" between thinking and freedom); thematization of the problem of other (especially of "other" thinking as "burst of freedom"). Author demonstrates that one of the most remarkable transcendental implications in Nancian approach to the question of freedom is importance of the idea of relation (represented in the mode of "share": partage), functioning as characteristic of freedom and also as condition of possibility of its (freedom) constitution. Concept of singularity is analysed, which, after Nancy's conception, underlies thematization of the problem of relation as "partage" and simultaneously is a factor of freedom constitution. Paper designates such transcendentally conditioned topics of Nancy's philosophy of freedom that catch the attention of Derrida. These are: liberation of freedom problematic from the framework of subject-centric attitude, question of the excess, idea of passive decision. Author shows that decostructive interpretation of Nancian philosophy of freedom is based on the idea of "touching", transcendental connotations of which are thought to be caused by link to the problematic of limit.
Ego na fenomenologia. Crítica de Sartre ao Ego transcendental de Husserl
Authors: Dias Pedro
Published: August 2022

This study approach the critique of the transcendental ego in phenomenology in La transcendance de l’Ego, where Sartre confronts the “consistency” of a psychic and psychophysical ego. The research is directed towards understanding how a consciousness that does not have, a priori, any egological structure ends up, as “artificial functionality” and “in interiority”, constituting it as an “object”, to then identify with him, affirming himself as being him, in a sui generis relationship of «identity and indistinction». Therefore, throughout the reflection, as he reveals what he claims to be a «pre-personal» character of consciousness, the philosopher questions the reason for this movement by which it ends up «reifying», identifying itself with the psychic ego which it itself constitutes as a transcendent object. The aim here is to approach the existential inferences – not subscribed by the reasoning that is developed –, of Sartre when he concludes that this ego is a «product» of the conscience itself, which constitutes it, projects itself and identifies with it as a subterfuge to escape its full spontaneity and freedom that are a reason for her anguish. In this context, it is thought that, due to the “doxic character” they contain, all existential positions cannot be confirmed in the light of transcendental phenomenology. The egological approach to subjectivity in Husserl’s phenomenology is considered to be a continuous process of self-appropriating unfolding. However, this does not imply an undue multiplication of “I’s”, but refers, above all, to “modalities” of a consciousness that unfolds in a multiplicity of acts and subjects.
Memoria síntesis del estudio socioambiental estratégico para el desarrollo de proyectos sostenibles de infraestructura en el Chaco paraguayo
Authors: Hurwitz Zachary , Kremer Caren , Sosa Martín , Gaviano Andrea , Chávez Sonia , Langstroth Robert , López Ángeles , González Guillermo
Published: August 2022

Este documento presenta los resultados de un estudio de impacto realizado desde una mirada estratégica y macrorregional de los proyectos incluidos en los planes y programas de infraestructura lineal previstos y en ejecución en el Chaco paraguayo (con énfasis en los proyectos de infraestructura vial). Este documento no sustituye a los Estudios de Impacto Ambiental y Social de cada uno de los proyectos individuales, preceptivos para la obtención de las respectivas licencias ambientales.
O Corpo, a Tela e a Produção de Presença na EaD
Authors: Nolasco-Silva Leonardo , Maddalena Tania Lucí­a
Published: August 2022

Em meio à intensificação das práticas pedagógicas mediadas pelo digital em rede,demandadas pela pandemia de Covid-19, propomos pensar, por meio da ideia de cibercorpos, a produção de presença através das telas. A partir do que temos discutido em torno do Ensino Remoto e dos fenômenos da Cibercultura, pensamos a EAD enquanto modalidade de ensino que possui especificidades inconciliáveis com algumas práticas educativas consolidadas no formato presencial. Destacamos a urgência de formações docentes comprometidas com os fenômenos da cibercultura e defendemos a criação de currículos online que sejam exercícios narrativos de si, do mundo e dos conhecimentos, isto é, hiperescritas ficcionais que se enredam nas redes educativas de "˜práticasteorias' cibercorporais.
Palavras-chave: Corpo. Presença. Cibercultura. Educação a distância.
Evaluating the Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Automation of the Banking Services Industry: Evidence from Jordan
Authors: Ali Mohammad Sami , Swiety Issa Ahmad , Mansour Maan Hussein
Published: August 2022

Due to the necessity of using technology in the most of banking and financial services, the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) has become one of the key drivers for financial institutions’ success. Financial institutions including banks implement AI based systems for the aim of meeting the needs of their clients. Although developing economies are bit slower in such adoption, however, they are still making their efforts. The current paper sheds the light on the role of AI in the enhancement of banking sector by exploring how AI based systems contribute in enhancing banking services and developing the trust of clients towards these services, so that developing economies could also adopt such advancements confidently. Consequently, after studying the Jordanian banking system through primary data, incorporating banking employees and clients, the study revealed that AI based systems conduct a central role in enhancing effective risk management, creating convenience, reducing costs and improving clients’ trust towards banking services. Moreover, the study induced that developing countries like Jordan should adopt and implement AI based systems in banking operations and services so that their banking sectors could play a more constructive part of their economies.
Health self-Management Support With Microlearning to Improve Hypertension
Authors:   Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Computer Science, Delft, Netherlands, Simons Luuk PA , Gerritsen Bas ,   Health Coach Program, Laan van Waalhaven 442, 2497 GR, The Hague, Netherlands, Wielaard Bas ,   Health Coach Program, Laan van Waalhaven 442, 2497 GR, The Hague, Netherlands, Neerincx Mark ,   Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Computer Science, Delft, Netherlands
Published: August 2022

High blood pressure is a leading cause of premature death. Healthy lifestyle choices (of diet, exercise, sleep and stress) could offer significant results. However, health literacy and - competence are lacking in most people, compared to best practice health choices, so there is room for improvement in creating hypertension self-management results. We tested an intensive two-week Self-Management Support (SMS) pilot, using daily feedback and microlearning cycles. Participants (n=8) reduced their blood pressure from 145/92 to 126/86 mmHg on average. User evaluation on effectiveness of the health support elements highlighted the importance of key SMS components like: information transfer, daily monitoring, enhancing problem solving/decision making, self-treatment using a tailored action plan, coping skills and ongoing follow-up with skilled coaches. Moreover, several aspects from microlearning, peer coaching, results-achievement and feeling better (=intrinsic motivation) were useful and hold promise for future intervention updates.
Reconciling the Debate on People Analytics in Academia and Practice
Authors:   University of Twente, Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social sciences (BMS), Enschede, The Netherlands, Hüllmann Joschka Andreas
Published: August 2022

People analytics depicts the algorithmization of human resources management characterized by the data-driven automation and support of people-related processes or tasks. On the one hand, people analytics promises productivity increases through optimizing workforce planning, hiring, or talent development. On the other hand, the extensive data collection and analysis of employees’ behaviors can be perceived as invasive, raising privacy concerns. This debate cannot only be explained by diverging norms and values, for example, practitioners realizing commercial opportunities while being criticized by academic commentaries. Instead, an alternative explanation suggests that the opposing views can be reconciled by diving into the conceptual differences regarding what analytical methods and data sources people analytics entails. Hence, this paper proposes the conceptions of operational and strategic people analytics based on a literature review of academics’ and practitioners’ literature. Four propositions about these conceptions’ privacy and performance implications are derived. Future research should empirically validate these propositions.
The identification of Ethical Focus Areas: A Literature Study Into Data Mining Ethical Focus Areas
Authors:   HU University of Applied Sciences, Digital Ethics, Utrecht, The Netherlands, van de Hoef Annemae , Leewis Sam ,   HU University of Applied Sciences, Digital Ethics, Utrecht, The Netherlands, Berkhout Matthijs ,   HU University of Applied Sciences, Digital Ethics, Utrecht, The Netherlands, Smit Koen ,   HU University of Applied Sciences, Digital Ethics, Utrecht, The Netherlands
Published: August 2022

Improper use of data must be avoided, as the consequences of improper use of data can be catastrophic. In the design of information systems, ethical focus areas could help combat improper use of data. Currently, more research is available on ethical focus areas in Data Mining compared to related research fields of Data Mining, such as Decision Mining and Process Mining. For this paper, a theoretical review was conducted to identify ethical focus areas of Data Mining and their possible solutions. Seven ethical focus areas were identified focussing on privacy, collection of personal information, consent, unpredictability and inaccuracy, group profiling and biased data. Future research is needed on the ethical focus areas, to validate the possible solutions related to these ethical focus areas in the context of related research fields of Data Mining
Self-Efficacy Improves UTAUT to Describe Adoption of HealthEnhancing Physical Activity Programs
Authors:   Institute for Advanced Management Systems Research, Abo Akademi University, Turku, Finland, Carlsson Christer
Published: August 2022

There is consensus in health studies that regular physical activities of sufficient intensity and duration contribute to better health both in the short and long term. In an ongoing research program, we focus on getting young elderly, the 60-75 years age group, to adopt and include physical activities as part of their everyday routines. Regular health-enhancing physical activities can serve as preventive health care, which will improve and sustain quality of life and build up savings in health-care macro costs for an ageing population. We have learned that digital service tools can be instrumental for the adoption and use of activity programs, and that the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) is instrumental for the acceptance and use of digital tools and services. We will argue that the UTAUT is not sufficient as such but can be enhanced to describe the adoption and use of health-enhancing physical activity programs.
Aux limites du récit. Dans le puits de Rachilde
Authors: Staroń Anita
Published: August 2022

L’article présente l’image de la crise telle qu’elle émane de Dans le puits, texte à valeur autobiographique écrit par Rachilde durant la Première Guerre mondiale. Le livre donne accès à la perception qu’a l’auteure de la guerre, de la peur et de l’impossibilité d’écrire de la fiction en ces temps de réalité traumatique. Rachilde, d’habitude écrivaine prolifique, qui a toujours écrit au moins une œuvre de fiction par an, se trouve réduite au silence, incapable d’exprimer la cruauté de la guerre. Dans le puits est sa seule publication un peu longue de cette époque, en même temps qu’une tentative de décrire les faits à travers sa subjectivité, afin de découvrir leur vraie signification.
L’écriture en crise pour un pays en crise. "Alger, journal intense" de Mustapha Benfodil
Authors: Brodziak Sylvie
Published: August 2022

Depuis son roman Archéologie du chaos (amoureux) paru en 2007, Mustapha Benfodil s’applique à mettre en œuvre le programme énoncé par l’un de ses personnages : DECONSTRUIRE L’ORDRE NARRATIF NATIONAL. Son dernier roman, Alger, journal intense, publié en septembre 2019, en témoigne. Dans celui-ci comme dans tous ses textes, Benfodil fait exploser la langue, les genres, les formes discursives et éditoriales. Avec jubilation, colère et humour, il met à nouveau l’écriture en crise pour conter l’Algérie victime, depuis octobre 1988, d’une terrible série de crises. Ainsi, douze ans après, nous verrons comment, grâce à l’écriture déjantée de la fiction, Benfodil saisit le chaos historique dont l’Algérie post-coloniale essaie de sortir.
Crise du dicible. Euphémismes et détournements du visage dans "Une saison de machettes" de Jean Hatzfeld
Authors: Chevrette Eric
Published: August 2022

Après avoir écouté les témoignages de survivants tutsis (Dans le nu de la vie, 2000), l’écrivain et journaliste français Jean Hatzfeld a renversé la perspective en recueillant les récits de génocidaires hutus, avec la publication d’Une saison de machettes (2003). Cet article montre comment les récits des bourreaux sont empreints d’indicible, étant marqués par une démarche discursive calculée et réifiante, qui vise plus à taire qu’à dire en détournant et en orientant l’acte narratif. L’expérience de l’événement y est réduite à sa dimension factuelle, évacuant par l’occasion toute subjectivation. Une telle posture rhétorique, parfois très directe et très crue, mais surtout empreinte d’euphémismes et de détournements, contribue à dépersonnaliser les bourreaux, donc à normaliser l’extrême violence et à occulter le visage tutsi.
De crise en crise − "Le Roi, le rat et le fou du Roi" de Matéi Visniec
Authors: Kucharuk Sylwia
Published: August 2022

Le présent article se propose d’analyser les différents aspects de la crise présents dans la pièce Le Roi, le rat et le fou du Roi de Matéi Visniec. Dans cette pièce grotesque, on passe d’une crise de la monarchie, située dans un univers à la fois carnavalesque et révolutionnaire, à une crise de l’humanité dans la société démocratique. La folie des dirigeants, la dégénérescence de la société, la crise de la parole et la manipulation de l’Histoire, qui est au service de la politique, tels sont les principaux visages de la crise dénoncés par l’auteur à travers les différentes formes du grotesque et autour desquels s’articule la présente analyse.
Digital Transformation & COVID-19: the Case of Greece
Authors: Vratimos Achillefs
Published: August 2022

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant problems to many different public sector functions worldwide extending further than just public health. To protect citizens and keep services functional, the digital transformation of the public sector was selected by many countries as the most reliable solution, a policy with the goal of servicing citizens on time and efficiently. Following the examples of other countries, Greece also moved in the same direction, successfully managing to respond to the strict demand times and implement many digital services such as Gov. gr, a central platform for public administration information and services, the digital platform myDeskLive.gov.gr for remotely serving citizens and businesses by conducting digital appointments and the creation of the Paperless Prescription Service. These are prime examples of how successful this transition has been for Greece, considering how far behind it was lagging compared to other advanced countries, and the progress made in such a short period of time. This paper presents in detail the innovative applications implemented by Greece in the context of combating and limiting the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic supported by statistics that reflect the spread use of these applications.
Os números racionais no ensino primário em Portugal (1930-1974)
Authors: Candeias Rui Pedro Campos Bento Barros , Monteiro Maria Cecília Soares de Morais , Almeida Mária Cristina Ribeiro Correia de
Published: August 2022

O trabalho analisa a abordagem aos números racionais não negativos presentes nos documentos curriculares oficiais e nos manuais do curso de formação inicial dos professores do ensino primário. Analisaram-se os programas destes cursos, os programas do ensino primário e quatro manuais de autores de referência na formação de professores em Portugal, na época. Fez-se uma análise documental, com uma perspetiva histórica. A primeira abordagem e definição dos números racionais é feita através da medição de grandezas, mas, os manuais também apresentam diferentes significados para as frações nos exemplos com contexto. Nos manuais destaca-se a importância atribuída às diferentes representações, para a apresentação da definição de número racional e em dois destes manuais releva-se os diferentes contextos para as frações. Os manuais analisados seguem as indicações dos programas na abordagem proposta aos números racionais, no entanto, alguns autores evidenciam aspetos diferentes na abordagem que fazem a estes números.
Modelling of Soil Spatial Variability in an Olive Grove by Fusing Remote Drone-based Multispectral Data, Ground-based Hyperspectral and Sample Data with Multivariate Geostatistics Taking into Account Change of Support
Authors: Belmonte Antonella , Riefolo Carmela , Francesco Lovergine , Castrignanò Annamaria
Published: August 2022

Traditional soil characterization methods are time consuming, laborious and invasive and do not allow long-term repeatability of measurements. The overall aim of this paper was to assess and model spatial variability of the soil in an olive grove in south Italy by using data from two sensors of different type: a multi-spectral on-board drone radiometer and a hyperspectral visible-near infrared-shortwave infrared (VIS-NIR-SWIR) reflectance radiometer as well as sample data, to arrive at a delineation of homogeneous areas. The hyperspectral data were processed using continuum removal methodology to obtain information about the content and composition of clay. Differently, the multispectral data were firstly upscaled to the support of soil data using geostatistics and taking into account change of support. Secondly, the two-sensor data were integrated with soil granulometric properties by using the multivariate geostatistical techniques of multi-collocated cokriging and factor cokriging, in order to achieve a more exhaustive and finer-scale soil characterisation. The paper shows the impact of change of support on the uncertainty of soil prediction that can have a significant effect on decision making in Precision Agriculture. Moreover, four regionalised factors at two different scales (two per each scale) were retained and mapped. Each factor provided a different delineation of the field with areas characterised by different granulometry and clay composition. The applied method is sufficiently flexible and could be applied to any number and type of sensors.
Promoting Oncolytic Vector Replication With Switches That Detect Ubiquitous Mutations
Authors: Renteln Michael
Published: August 2022

Most existing cancer therapies negatively affect normal tissue as well as cancerous tissue. A potentially effective strategy for treating cancer that precludes off-target damage and could be an option for most patients would involve targeting one or more mutations that are ubiquitous in the given patient’s tumor(s). To effect this strategy, one would employ multi-region sequencing of a patient’s primary tumor and metastases to seek out mutations that are shared between all or at least most regions. Once the target or targets are known, one would ideally rapidly generate a molecular switch for at least one of said ubiquitous mutations that can distinguish the mutated DNA, RNA, or protein from the wild-type version and subsequently trigger a therapeutic response. I propose that the therapeutic response involve the replication of an oncolytic virus or intracellular bacterium, as any mutation can theoretically be detected by a vector that enters the cell - and automatic propagation could be very helpful. Moreover, the mutation “signal” can be easily enhanced through transcriptional and translational (if the target is an intracellular protein) enhancement. Importantly, RNA may make the best target for the molecular switches in terms of amplification of the signal and ease of targeting.
Polarimetry for 3He Ion Beams From Laser-Plasma Interactions
Authors: Zheng Chuan , Fedorets Pavel , Engels Ralf , Kannis Chrysovalantis , Engin Ilhan , Möller Sören , Swaczyna Robert , Feilbach Herbert , Glückler Harald , Lennartz Manfred , Pfeifer Heinz , Pfennings Johannes , Schneider Claus M. , Schnitzler Norbert , Soltner Helmut , Büscher Markus
Published: August 2022

We present a compact polarimeter for 3He ions with special emphasis on the analysis of short-pulsed beams accelerated during laser-plasma interactions. We discuss the specific boundary conditions for the polarimeter, such as the properties of laser-driven ion beams, the selection of the polarization-sensitive reaction in the polarimeter, the representation of the analyzing-power contour map, the choice of the detector material used for particle identification, as well as the production procedure of the required deuterated foil-targets. The assembled polarimeter has been tested using a tandem accelerator delivering unpolarized 3He ion beams, demonstrating good performance in the few-MeV range. The statistical accuracy and the deduced figure-of-merit of the polarimetry are discussed, including the count-rate requirement and the lower limit of accuracy for beam-polarization measurements at a laser-based ion source.
Mechanisms of Basement Membrane Micro-Perforation During Cancer Cell Invasion Into a 3D Collagen Gel
Authors: Nazari Shayan S. , Doyle Andrew D. , Yamada Kenneth M.
Published: August 2022

Cancer invasion through basement membranes represents the initial step of tumor dissemination and metastasis. However, little is known about how human cancer cells breach basement membranes. Here, we used a 3-dimensional in vitro invasion model consisting of cancer spheroids encapsulated by a basement membrane and embedded in 3D collagen gels to visualize the early events of cancer invasion by confocal microscopy and live-cell imaging. Human breast cancer cells generated large numbers of basement membrane perforations, or holes, of varying sizes that expanded over time during cell invasion. We used a wide variety of small molecule inhibitors to probe the mechanisms of basement membrane perforation and hole expansion. Protease inhibitor treatment (BB94), led to a 63% decrease in perforation size. After myosin II inhibition (blebbistatin), basement membrane perforation area decreased by only 15%. These treatments produced correspondingly decreased cellular breaching events. Interestingly, inhibition of actin polymerization dramatically decreased basement membrane perforation by 80% and blocked invasion. Our findings suggest that human cancer cells can primarily use proteolysis and actin polymerization to perforate the BM and to expand perforations for basement membrane breaching, with a relatively small contribution from myosin II contractility.
Swan Island : monitoring and adaptive management plan
Authors: Whitfield Paula , Davis Jenny , Tritinger Amanda , Szimanski Danielle , Golden Rebecca , Gailani Joseph , Ramirez Michael , Herman Brook , Whitbeck Matt , King Jeffery
Published: August 2022

Swan Island is a 10.12 ha island located in the Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Because of its value as a natural wave break for the town of Ewell on nearby Smith Island, as well as the ongoing erosion and subsidence of the island, in 2019 US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)–Baltimore District placed 45,873 m³ of dredged sediment and planted 200,000 marsh plants. This restoration provided an opportunity to quantify the engineering (that is, resilience) and ecological performance of the island, postplacement. The lack of quantitative data on the performance of natural features such as islands has led to perceived uncertainties that are often cited as barriers to implementation. To address these data gaps, a multidisciplinary collaboration of five government entities identified project objectives and monitoring parameters through a series of mediated workshops and then developed a conceptual model to articulate those parameters and the linkages between them. This monitoring and adaptive management plan (MAMP) documents those monitoring parameters and procedures and can serve as an example for other scales, regions, and research questions. Documenting research and monitoring efforts may help to foster widespread acceptance of nature-based solutions such as islands.
Determinants influencing use of lower tidal volumes, lower inspiratory pressures, and prone positioning in ARDS: A systematic review
Authors: Bass Geoffrey , Levy Elizabeth P. , Westover Julie E. , Ndebele-Ngwenya Phiwinhlanhla , Taichman Rebecca B. , Costa Deena Kelly , Weiss Curtis H. , Lane-Fall Meghan B. , Kerlin Meeta Prasad
Published: August 2022

Background:Lower tidal volumes and lower inspiratory pressures for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and prone positioning in severe ARDS are evidence-based practices that improve patient survival but are inconsistently applied. The objective of this systematic review is to identify what barriers, facilitators, and factors (together called determinants) influence the use of lower tidal volumes and lower inspiratory pressures for adult intensive care unit patients with ARDS and prone positioning for those with severe ARDS.Methods:We performed a systematic review employing PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL for studies published between January 1, 2000 and February 1, 2020. Studies reporting qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods data about determinants of implementation of the three strategies of interest were identified. We extracted determinants of implementation, study type, and evidence-based practice(s) studied. We assigned determinants to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to organize contextual factors influencing implementation.Results:4,578 studies were screened and 32 manuscripts were included and analyzed. Lower tidal volumes was the most studied evidence-based practice (27 of 32 studies). 86 determinants were extracted. We assigned 62 (72%) of determinants to the CFIR, withCharacteristics of IndividualsandInner Settingmost represented. The other 24 (28%) determinants were related to the patient’s clinical condition and demographic factors. We assigned these to a domain developed through inductive reasoning, “Patient Factors,” with 15 (63%) assigned to the construct “Dynamic Patient Attributes” and 9 (38%) to “Static Patient Attributes.” 5 of 86 (6%) determinants related to prone positioning.Conclusions:Multiple determinants impact the delivery of lower tidal volumes and lower inspiratory pressures in patients with ARDS, but we identified few determinants for prone positioning in severe ARDS. Our application of implementation science theory enables clinicians to identify factors influencing this evidence-to-practice gap and may support investigations and interventions to improve guideline-concordant care in ARDS.Systematic Review Registration:We registered this systematic review on PROSPERO (PROSPERO 2019 CRD42019135160).
Transdermal delivery of diclofenac using various nano-drug delivery vehicles
Authors: Louw Estelle-Vionè , Liebenberg Wilna , Willers Clarissa , Dube Admire , Aucamp Marique E , Gerber Minja
Published: August 2022

Diclofenac (2-[(2,6-dichlorophenyl)amino]phenyl]acetic acid) was incorporated into different drug delivery vehicles to investigate the transdermal delivery thereof. These drug delivery vehicles included nano-emulsions, nano-emulgels and a colloidal suspension containing drug-loaded nanoparticles. The formulation of nano-emulsions and nano-emulgels was at different concentrations of evening primrose oil (EPO). The different drug delivery vehicles were compared in terms of the type of drug delivery vehicle and the concentration of EPO within the vehicle (if included).The characterization of the drug delivery vehicles and membrane release studies determined if the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) was successfully released from the vehicle. Following this, in vitro skin diffusion studies and tape stripping (topical delivery) were conducted to establish whether the drug delivery vehicles assisted the API to successfully penetrate the skin and reach the target-site (transdermal delivery). By performing methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) and neutral red (NR) assays on human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells, the cytotoxicity of the drug delivery vehicles was investigated.Results from the membrane release and in vitro skin diffusion studies showed that the nano-emulsions and the 10% EPO drug delivery vehicles increased API release and diffusion when compared to the other drug delivery vehicles. However, the colloidal suspension had the highest concentrations of API within the stratum corneum-epidermis and the epidermis-dermis. The drug delivery vehicles showed minimal cytotoxic effects at concentrations equivalent to that which had permeated through the skin.
Lead absorption capacity in different parts of plants and its influencing factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: jia lulu , Ma Hongkun , Guan Yue , Zou Lina , Jiang Lan , Hang Yongzheng , Feng Xiaoyan , Ren Xiaowei , Tian Yuting , Pan Hongzhi , Rong Shengzhong
Published: August 2022

People pose a serious risk by eating plants contaminated with lead in their soil. Lead enrichment in different parts of plant roots, stems, and leaves is controversial. Accordingly, a meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the ability of different plants to enrich lead and the main factors for lead absorption. The results of this study indicated that all parts of plants accumulated significantly lead. The concentrations of lead in different parts of root, stem and leaf were analyzed, and it was found that these concentrations followed an order of root > stem > leaf. Alkaline soil was beneficial to lead absorption by plants in this study. Significant differences were found in lead enrichment ability among vegetables, gramineae and trees. When the lead concentration in soil was higher than 20mg/kg, the lead absorption in different parts of roots, stems, and leaves was more. Lead is most absorbed in trees (e.g., ulmus pumila and murraya paniculate). It is the least in gramineae (e.g., rice, maize plants, and sweet sorghum). It is argued that this study is beneficial to select vegetables suitable for absorption of heavy metals from polluted soil. This study can help to clarify the ability of a variety of plant parts to enrich lead and the factors for lead enrichment in plants, so as to propose more reasonable lead pollution control strategies and guide people to make healthy choices when choosing edible plants.
Are primary care consultations in Trinidad patient-centered? A cross-sectional study of patients with non-communicable diseases
Authors: Rahaman Reisa R , Motilal M Shastri , Khan Raveed , Maharaj Rohan G
Published: August 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to measure the patient’s perception of patient centeredness in their consultations for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). We also measured consultation length and patient enablement.Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted over 2 months at four primary care clinics at the St. Joseph cluster of the North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA) in Trinidad and Tobago. Interviewers timed the consultation and completed post-consultation questionnaires using the Patient Perception of Patient-Centeredness (PPPC) questionnaire and the Patient Enablement Index (PEI). The PPPC is a 14-item (each scored 1-4) Likert-scaled instrument. The total score is averaged and a PPPC score of 4 is the maximum. The PEI measures the ability of the patient to cope with life and their disease. The PEI consists of 6 questions scored 0-2, with a maximum of 12. Results: There were 180 respondents (response rate = 82.5%). Participants were female (75.6%), aged over 65 years (50.6%), married (51.1%), Indo-Trinidadian (52.2 %), and Christian (60.6%). Half achieved a primary school education, and 37.2% secondary. The consultation length ranged between 1.32 and 31.22 minutes. The average, median and mode of the consultation length were 8.5, 7.74 and 10 minutes, respectively. The average, median and mode of the measures of patient-centeredness were PPPC (3.67, 3.86 and 4) and PEI score (5.93, 6 and 6). The PPPC average was lower in patients with a stroke (p=0.022), and higher among those with more than 2 consultation interruptions (p=0.015) and those who knew the doctor very well (p=0.015). The PEI score was lower in patients with heart disease (p=0.022). The consultation length was longer in those with tertiary education (p=0.044) and those with two consultation interruptions (p=0.032). PPPC Average and PEI Score correlated well (ρ = 0.408, p<0.001). The consultation length correlated with the PPPC Average (ρ=0.168, p=0.025) . Conclusion: Primary Care consultations in this cluster of health centres in NCRHA in Trinidad were often patient centered. The consultation length, patient-centeredness, measured with the PPPC instrument, and patient enablement scores, measured with the PEI instrument, in consultations for NCDs in Trinidad compare favourably with international reports.
Evaluating and comparing critical thinking skills of specialty residents of Tehran University of Medical Sciences
Authors: Mehrpour Saeed Reza , Shavoun Amin Hoseini , Kheiltash Azita , Masoomi Rasoul , Seraji Roya Nasle
Published: August 2022

Background
Today’s complexities and diversity in the clinical setting have revealed the need to pay attention to strengthening critical thinking skills. The present study aimed to evaluate and compare critical thinking skills in the specialty residents of Tehran University of Medical Sciences.
Methods
The present study is a descriptive and cross-sectional type of study. The statistical population of the study included 284 specialty residents in orthopedic, internal medicine, and surgery groups studying in the first to fourth years of residency. They were selected by a census method. A two-section questionnaire, including demographic characteristics and the California Critical Thinking Skills Test -Form B (CCTST-B), was used to collect data. The collected data were entered into SPSS-16 software and analyzed using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (one-way ANOVA) statistics. The significant level in all tests was considered at P < 0.05.
Results
The mean critical thinking skill score of specialty residents (SD = 3.52, M = 13.81) was found at a level lower than the optimal level. A significant difference was found between the critical thinking skill scores in the three groups (internal medicine, surgery, and orthopedic). Comparing the mean critical thinking skill scores of the specialty residents separately for residency year revealed a significant difference between critical thinking skill scores in the four groups.
Conclusion
The critical thinking skills of the specialty residents of Tehran University of Medical Sciences were generally below the optimal level. The critical thinking score of the residents increased in the second year, but it was reduced again in the third and fourth years. Due to the emphasis of accreditation institutions, the World Federation for Medical Education, and other international institutions on the promotion of critical thinking, it is recommended to pay more attention to the factors related to the promotion and development of critical thinking skills in specialty residents.
Associations of depression status and grade point average for female undergraduate
Authors: Qi Yanbo , Hou Qingzhi
Published: August 2022

Background: Undergraduate mental health was one of important contents for university and college implement overall education for all-round development. We aimed to explore the association between mental health and the grade point average (GPA) for freshman. Methods: There were 930 freshman whose average age was 17.97±0.68 years old. SAS (Self-Rating Anxiety Scale), SDS (Self-Rating Depression Scale), SCL-90 (Self-reporting Inventory), and IRIDS (Interpersonal Relationship Integrative Diagnostic Scale) were used to assessed the undergraduate mental health in our present study. Logistic regression and Generalized Linear Regression Model (GLM) and Restricted Cubic Splines function (RCS) model were used to explore the mental health and GPA for freshmen.Results: The grade point average in female freshman was higher than male (3.06±0.52 vs 2.77±0.55, P<0.001), and SDS score was higher than male freshman (44.88±11.30 vs 42.43±9.93, P=0.005). After adjusting for age and departments, higher SDS score was associated with the risk of lower grade point average risk (OR=1.41, 95%CI: 1.14, 1.75, P=0.001) for female students. In liner analyses, the SDS score had a negative association with grade point average (β=-0.01, 95%CI: -0.098, -0.001, P=0.002) for female students, and there was Conclusions: The SDS score for female undergraduate was higher than male, and the SDS score was negatively associated with grade point average for female undergraduate.