bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changing the Ways of Communication and the Use of Sign Systems in Teaching in a Digital Society
Authors: Ovchinnikov Yu.
Published: August 2023

The article highlights an important social problem: it traces the change in the ways of communicative activity in the field of education from antiquity to the emergence of a digital society. The study of this phenomenon by specialists of various profiles proves that it has reduced motor activity – humanity has become addicted to sitting in electronic networks, the Internet, as a result of which communication has become passive. The article discusses various iconic forms of virtual communication that lead to a number of negative consequences: psycho-emotional changes, information overload, the appearance of a person’s internal closeness, unwillingness not only to perform useful purposeful actions, but also to move.
Reinterpretacja wizerunku prezydenta Wołodymyra Zełenskiego w polskich memach internetowych w czasie wojny ukraińsko-rosyjskiej
Authors: Mazur Rafał
Published: August 2023

REINTERPRETATION OF THE IMAGE OF PRESIDENT VOLODYMYR ZELENSKY IN POLISH INTERNET MEMES DURING THE UKRAINE-RUSSIA WAR The article discusses the online reception of the image of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in 2022. A quantitative-qualitative method was used to analyze 126 internet memes published on the Polish website Kwejk.pl. The analysis of the memes studied showed that the Ukrainian-Russian conflict is simplified to a battle between the leaders of the warring countries. While Volodymyr Zelensky is almost exclusively presented positively by internet users as a hero and a simple, likable person, Russian President Vladimir Putin is his complete opposite – a weak, cowardly and greedy man. By creating and spreading such memes, internet users therefore reinterpret the media images of politicians. The creators of memes become not only commentators, but also participants in political life, having a real impact on public opinion. Internet memes should therefore be treated as a highly valuable informational and image-related tool in the war.
Active promotion of brain health is an essential part of neurological management and dementia prevention
Authors: Peel Charlie , Fox Sarah
Published: August 2023

The importance of promoting brain health through lifestyle measures, acting early to preserve and protect brain function for as long as possible, and carefully monitoring those with decreasing function to enhance how they manage their condition and optimise care is becoming increasingly clear. The authors summarise the evidence-base and review how tailored training is helping healthcare professionals across the UK to adapt their services or modify their personal practice to facilitate this important shift in thinking.
LiDAR-camera-system-based unsupervised and weakly supervised 3D object detection
Authors: Wang Haosen , Chen Tiankai , Ji Xiaohang , Qian Feng , Ma Yue , Wang Shifeng
Published: August 2023

LiDAR camera systems are now becoming an important part of autonomous driving 3D object detection. Due to limitations in time and resources, only a few critical frames of the synchronized camera data and acquired LiDAR points may be annotated. However, there is still a large amount of unannotated data in practical applications. Therefore, we propose a LiDAR-camera-system-based unsupervised and weakly supervised (LCUW) network as a novel 3D object-detection method. When unannotated data are put into the network, we propose an independent learning mode, which is an unsupervised data preprocessing module. Meanwhile, for detection tasks with high accuracy requirements, we propose an Accompany Construction mode, which is a weakly supervised data preprocessing module that requires only a small amount of annotated data. Then, we generate high-quality training data from the remaining unlabeled data. We also propose a full aggregation bridge block in the feature-extraction part, which uses a stepwise fusion and deepening representation strategy to improve the accuracy. Our comparative, ablation, and runtime test experiments show that the proposed method performs well while advancing the application of LiDAR camera systems.
Layered configuration of graphene-Si3N4 films for strongly absorbent incident radiation in a wide wavelength range of 1–14 µm
Authors: Yang Guang , Gao Zecheng , Duan Shenghua , Chen Cheng , Liu Taige , Qing ZiHan , Wang ChenMing , Zhang Xinyu
Published: August 2023

A type of infrared (IR) broadband metamaterial absorbers with several typical features, such as a relatively strong IR radiation absorption, an ultrathin functioned architecture, and a layered configuration of graphene-Si3N4 films, are proposed. The principal metamaterial absorbers are constructed by alternating configuring the core film consisting of a graphene sheet and a Si3N4 dielectric layer, which are also back attached by a thin Cu substrate. The layered graphene-Si3N4/Cu architecture already experimentally achieves an average IR absorption of ∼86.71% in a wide wavelength range of 1-14 µm according to simulations and actual measurements. And their IR absorbance can also be easily adjusted by suitably matching the layer number of the graphene-Si3N4 film or applying a set of bias voltages over the functioned graphene sheets constructed. The developed metamaterial absorbers can tolerate a relatively wide beam incident angle range of 0°-80°. The improved IR absorbing architecture also presents a polarization-independent character. Finally, it is given that the addition of various superstructures to the incident surface of the structure guarantees a very high average absorption of the structure while changing the absorption peak of the structure. It is discussed that this design can be used as a substrate for different super-surface structures to ensure their very high absorption in the infrared band. The proposed IR absorbing approach will highlight the continuous development of the IR radiation absorption technique in a broad application field.
The outcome efficacy of the entity risk management requirements of the NIS 2 Directive
Authors: Ferguson Donald David Stewart
Published: August 2023

The NIS 2 Directive (2022/2555) of the European Union (EU) identifies the cybersecurity risk management requirements for essential and important entities in EU member states. The principal question we address is, how effective are the cybersecurity risk management measures of the NIS 2 Directive against cyberattacks on essential and important entities in EU member states? It was observed, through statutory interpretation and cyber kill chain model analysis, that the cybersecurity risk management measures of the NIS 2 Directive may be significantly limited in their effectiveness against cyberattacks on essential and important entities in EU member states. The limited effectiveness is primarily due to the narrow scope of the cybersecurity risk management measures, including the lack of specific measures focused on the reconnaissance phase of a cyberattack.
Systematic review with meta-analysis: Prevalence, risk factors, and challenges for urinary schistosomiasis in children (USC)
Authors: Masdor Noor Azreen , Kandayah Thinakaran , Amsah Norizzati , Othman Rahayu , Hassan Mohd Rohaizat , Rahim Syed Sharizman Syed Abdul , Jeffree Mohammad Saffree , Awang Lukman Khamisah , Hidrus Aizuddin
Published: August 2023

Background

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection that causes significant public health problems in tropical countries. Schistosoma haematobium species are blamable for causing urinary schistosomiasis. The infected person, specifically children, may be carrying the disease. This systematic review aimed to identify the current knowledge of urinary Schistosmiasis in children or USC on its epidemiology, risk factors, and challenges to spread the understanding of controlling the disease and reducing the complications.

Method

In November 2021, a systematic computer-aided literature review was conducted using PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria. The results were updated in February 2022. We only used papers that have at least the abstract available in English. Relevant articles were screened, duplicates were deleted, eligibility criteria were applied, and studies that met the criteria were reviewed. The keywords Human Schistosoma infections, prevalence, risk factors and challenges were included. The protocol for the review was registered with PROSPERO (registration number CRD42022311609). Pooled prevalence rates were calculated using the programme R version 4.2.1. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic and p-value. A narrative approach was used to describe risk factors and challenges. Studies were selected and finalised based on the review question to prioritise. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Mixed-Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT).

Results

A total of 248 publications met the requirements for inclusion. Fifteen articles were included in this review, with the result showing high heterogeneity. The pooled prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis in children is 4% (95% confidence interval (CI)). Age, poor socioeconomic status, education, exposure to river water, and poor sanitation are the risk factors identified in this review. Challenges are faced due to limitations of clean water, lack of water resources, and poor hygiene.

Conclusion

Modifiable risk factors such as poor knowledge and practices must be addressed immediately. Healthcare providers and schools could accomplish engaging in practical promotional activities. Communicating the intended messages to raise community awareness of urinary schistosomiasis is critical.
Alkaline water as a potential agent for biting midge control: Managing effectiveness and non-target organism impact evaluation
Authors: Siriyah Siti Latifatus , Tso I-Min
Published: August 2023

Biting midgeForcipomyia taiwanais one of the common pests in East Asia. Their nuisance and blood-sucking behavior causes problems not only for human health but also for some industries. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of spraying alkaline water on controlling biting midge population and potential side effects of such approach on non-target organisms. Laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of alkaline water on oviposition site preference of female biting midges as well as crickets. Effect of alkaline water on distribution pattern of earthworms was also examined. Besides, we also performed field manipulative studies by long term spraying of alkaline water to evaluate the effects on biting midge density, microalgae abundance and ground arthropod communities. The results of laboratory experiments showed that female biting midges laid significantly fewer eggs in surface treated with alkaline water. However, alkaline water treatment did not significantly affect the oviposition site choice of crickets and distribution pattern of earthworms. Result of field manipulations showed that long-term spraying of alkaline water could significantly reduce the abundance of soil microalgae and density of biting midges, but did not affect the diversity of non-target ground arthropods. These results demonstrate that long-term spraying of alkaline water could decrease biting midge density without harming co-existing non-target organisms and therefore is a potentially eco-friendly approach to control such pest.
Study on the migration characteristics of bioaerosols and optimization of ventilation patterns in a negative pressure isolation ward considering different patient postures
Authors: Wu Dieen , Chen Jianji , Fu Xihua , Li Zongkun , Tan Futai , Lin Hai
Published: August 2023

Due to the serious global harm caused by the outbreak of various viral infectious diseases, how to improve indoor air quality and contain the spread of infectious bioaerosols has become a popular research subject. Negative pressure isolation ward is a key place to prevent the spread of aerosol particles. However, there is still limited knowledge available regarding airflow patterns and bioaerosol diffusion behavior in the ward, which is not conducive to reducing the risk of cross-infection between health care workers (HCWs) and patients. In addition, ventilation layout and patient posture have important effects on aerosol distribution. In this study, the spatial and temporal characteristics as well as dispersion patterns of bioaerosols under different ventilation patterns in the ward were investigated using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique. It is concluded that changes in the location of droplet release source due to different body positions of the patient have a significant effect on the bioaerosol distribution. After optimizing the layout arrangements of exhaust air, the aerosol concentration in the ward with the patient in both supine and sitting positions is significantly reduced with particle removal efficiencies exceeding 95%, that is, the ventilation performance is improved. Meanwhile, the proportion of aerosol deposition on all surfaces of the ward is decreased, especially the deposition on both the patient’s body and the bed is less than 1%, implying that the risk of HCWs being infected through direct contact is reduced.
Digital cities and villages: African writers and a sense of place in short online fiction
Authors: Opoku-Agyemang Kwabena
Published: August 2023

This article analyses how young African writers challenge stereotypes about the continent through their imagination of places in online short stories. These stories appear on the literary websites Brittle Paper, Jalada, Saraba, Flash Fiction Ghana, Adda and African Writer Magazine with a focus on cities and villages. Authored by ten writers from Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi and Egypt, the stories contain elements of fiction that risk perpetuating negative stereotypes about Africa as they imagine their respective settings. However, textual analysis supported by an appreciation of context reveals how the writers use these stereotypes as basis to craft strong African narratives. By doing so, the writers emphasize the effect that places have on characters, theme, setting and the image of Africa. Ultimately, the roles that urban and rural spaces play in online fiction are multifaceted and enhance the African narrative in complex ways.
Representations of robotics and AI in Westworld (1973–2016): A sociological analysis of the imagery of science and technology in popular culture
Authors: Stengler A. Erik , Camorrino Antonio , Rutenbeck Anna
Published: August 2023

We explore themes related to societal concerns about robotics and AI represented in the first season of the current HBO TV series Westworld and compare them to those expressed in a corpus of similar length comprising Michael Crichton’s original feature film Westworld from 1973, its sequel Futureworld and the ensuing TV series Beyond Westworld. In the context of science communication, science in popular culture has most often been studied in terms of the influence it can exert on the audience’s understanding, awareness and engagement with science. Our analysis is framed in the approach of viewing films and TV as a ‘virtual witnessing technology’ and ‘social thought experiments’ through which they provide valuable information about perceptions, misconceptions, fears and expectations by the public on science and technology issues. Authors and filmmakers are considered representatives of society, giving a voice to those affected by developments in science and technology. Our analysis explores not only current perceptions and concerns on robotics and AI but also how that may have changed over this crucial period of their development.
Enterococcus isolated from poultry intestine for potential probiotic use
Authors: Carvajal E. , Contreras S. , Díaz W. , Martinez-Bello D. , McCown M. , Ardila Y. , Vásquez María Cristina
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim: To develop species-specific probiotics for poultry, it is ideal to obtain these probiotic microorganisms directly from the intestinal tract of broiler and egg-laying chicks in production environments to ensure adaptation to actual conditions. This study aimed to isolate lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from the intestinal tract of broiler and egg-laying chicks to determine their probiotic potential.

Materials and Methods: Twenty-five Ross-308 broilers and 25 Isa Brown egg-laying chicks were raised until days 42 and 120, respectively; they were housed in an individual poultry building. Lactic acid bacteria were isolated and identified from the small intestine mucus of broiler and layer chicks and then evaluated based on resistance to acidic pH levels, bile salt concentration, and antagonistic activity against wild strains of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. selected strains with probiotic potential were identified by polymerase chain reaction and confirmed by rDNA sequencing.

Results: One hundred and fifty Gram-positive isolates were obtained; 28% (42) were catalase and oxidase negative and biochemical identification was made by crystal system: 76.2% (32) Enterococcus spp., 16.6% (7) Lactococcus spp., and 7.2% (3) Streptococcus spp.; and evaluated for hemolysin production; tolerance to low pH and bile salts, and antagonistic potential were carried out. Molecular characterization yielded 56% (24) Enterococcus faecium, and 44% (18) Enterococcus faecalis. About 81% (34) of strains were without vancomycin resistance genes criterion.

Conclusion: This study isolated and characterized 36 strains of LAB with probiotic qualities, from the intestines of broiler and egg-laying chicks, selecting E. faecium, Enterococcus avium, and Enterococcus casseliflavus, Lactococcus garviae as promising strains for further in vitro and in vivo research.

Keywords: Enterococcus avium, Enterococcus faecium, lactic acid bacteria, probiotics.
Insect-based diets (house crickets and mulberry silkworm pupae): A comparison of their effects on canine gut microbiota
Authors: Areerat Sathita , Chundang Pipatpong , Lekcharoensuk Chalermpol , Patumcharoenpol Preecha , Kovitvadhi Attawit
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim: The gut microbiome plays an important role in the overall health and well-being of dogs, influencing various physiological processes such as metabolism, nutrient absorption, and immune function. Edible insects are a sustainable and nutritious alternative protein source attracting increasing attention as a potential component of animal feeds, including pet food. However, little is known about the effects of insect-based diets on the gut microbiota of dogs. This study aimed to examine the fecal microbiota of dogs fed a diet that substituted common protein sources (poultry meal) with the house cricket (Acheta domesticus [AD]) or mulberry silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori pupae [BMp]) at different levels.

Materials and Methods: Fifteen healthy adult mixed-breed dogs were systemically randomized and assigned into each block under a completed randomized block design into the following five experimental dietary groups: control diet, 10% AD, 20% AD, 7% BMp, or 14% BMp for 29 days. The amounts fed to the dogs were based on the daily energy requirement. Fecal samples were collected on days 14 and 29 and analyzed for bacterial community structure using 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid gene sequencing.

Results: At the phylum and genus levels, microbiota and their diversity were generally relatively similar among all treatments. The diets containing insects did not significantly alter the major phyla in the gut microbiome of dogs (p > 0.05). A few significant changes were found in the relative abundance of bacterial genera, with the levels of Allobaculum and Turicibacter being reduced in dogs fed a higher level of BMp. In contrast, only a decrease in Turicibacter was found in dogs fed the lower level of AD than the control diet (p < 0.05). Corynebacterium and Lactobacillus levels in the dogs fed 14% BMp were significantly increased compared with those in the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: These findings suggest that insect-based diets may slightly alter the gut microbiota of dogs. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which insect-based diets influence the gut microbiota of dogs and the long-term potential health implications.

Keywords: 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid, canine, cricket, gut microbiota, insect, silkworm.
Percepciones del profesorado universitario respecto al alumnado con discapacidad
Authors: Lozano Santos Laura , Rodríguez-Ortiz Isabel R,
Published: August 2023

El acceso y permanencia del alumnado con discapacidad en estudios universitarios va en progresivo aumento cada curso académico. El que la presencia de este alumnado en la universidad se convierta en una grata y productiva experiencia y culmine con éxito académico va a depender mucho de las medidas educativas que se implanten y en ello el profesorado juega un papel fundamental. El presente estudio se centra en conocer el grado de conocimiento, las percepciones y las necesidades que el profesorado manifiesta en relación con el alumnado con discapacidad en la universidad. Asimismo, pretende analizar las relaciones entre estas variables y las posibles diferencias en función de la experiencia previa con este alumnado. Para ello, se plantea un estudio exploratorio a través de un cuestionario dirigido al profesorado universitario. En él participaron 222 docentes (111 mujeres y 111 hombres), con edades comprendidas entre 23 y 71 años (M = 49.7; DT = 9.7), de las diferentes ramas de conocimiento y titulaciones. Los resultados muestran que es preciso ampliar el conocimiento del profesorado mediante formación y dotación de recursos de apoyo para la integración del alumnado con discapacidad. Igualmente, se observa una necesidad alta de disponer de más información general sobre la discapacidad y el reconocimiento de la labor docente desarrollada en atención a este alumnado. La experiencia previa con el alumnado con discapacidad se relaciona con un mayor conocimiento en medidas de adaptación metodológicas, de adaptación de la evaluación, de adaptación de las prácticas y en la comunicación, así como con la disposición de conocimientos generales sobre la atención educativa en presencia de discapacidad.
Institutional Gaps in Agonistic and Communicative Planning Theories. Critical Implications of the ‘Systemic Turn’ in Deliberative Democracy Theory
Authors: Mäntysalo Raine , Mattila Hanna , Hirvola Aino
Published: August 2023

The paper critically reviews communicative and agonistic planning theories from the viewpoint of a systemic turn in deliberative democracy theory. While the approach reveals complementarities between the theories, it also argues that each theory is vulnerable to criticism because of an ‘institutional gap’. The theories are found to complement each other in addressing planning conflicts at different dimensions. Communicative planning theory deals with conflicts between different stakeholders’ interests in planning processes. Agonistic planning theory, in turn, concentrates on conflicts from a more ontological dimension, related to the (implicit) conflict between hegemonic and marginalized discourses and related identity-forming processes of inclusion and exclusion in planning policies and governance. The institutional gap of communicative planning theory is argued to reside in its focus on situational deliberation that largely ignores the institutional dimension of rules and norms of democratic conduct. Agonistic pluralism, in turn, does engage with the dimension of democratic institutions, but in an overly critical manner, making it difficult for agonistic planning theory to address the dynamic interplay between institutional reconfiguration and policy stabilization in planning. This is argued to be the institutional gap of agonistic planning theory. The paper calls for further work in the field of planning theory to incorporate a systemic approach to deliberative democracy and thereby tap into the dialectics of institutional and situational dimensions of planning.
A new optimized ZV-ZCS non-isolated high-gain boost converter for renewable energy systems
Authors: Pal Ananta , Saha Shib Sankar
Published: August 2023

This paper proposes a novel zero-voltage zero-current transition (ZV-ZCT) DC/DC high gain coupled inductor based boost converter for applications in renewable energy systems. It employs an auxiliary resonant network to soft-switch transition of semiconductor switches and soft-recovery of power diodes over wide input voltage and output power range of the converter with high efficiency. The auxiliary cell of the proposed converter has negligible impact on the converter’s overall dynamics and it doesn’t contribute any extra current stress to the semiconductor switches compared to classical hard switched boost converters. A thorough theoretical analysis of each operating mode has been presented together with the converter’s steady-state performance. The mathematical equations illustrating the dynamic behaviour of the converter have been used to design the auxiliary cell components. The circulating current loss has been minimized and simultaneously soft-switched operation of the converter is maintained through optimal selection of auxiliary cell components. Additionally, a power loss study and the proposed converter’s advantages over existing traditional converters are discussed. The converter’s soft-switching behaviour is established by hardware testing on a 400 W, 100 kHz prototype model. The theoretically predicted behaviour of the converter has been well corroborated by experimental observations.
Congruity approach in the educational process
Authors: Golovko Olga , Ley Vyacheslav , Mikhaylova Alla
Published: August 2023

The issues of improving the quality of education in the context of the growing environmental crisis and the decline in the population health of students require thinking of the lessons within the scope of nature-friendly organization of the educational process, which is especially important in the context of the current pandemic period.Objective of the study is to consider a new type of educational lesson for a university – a “fresh” lesson in the open air, developing a plan for a ‘fresh” lesson in physics.Methodology and research methods: the article reveals the methodological aspects of domestic and similar foreign experience in organizing outdoor training lessons, the prototypes of “fresh” training lessons in the pedagogical heritage of the classics are considered; a sociological survey on the research problem was conducted.Scientific novelty: the concepts of “fresh lesson” and “pedagogical fresh technologies” are substantiated and introduced into scientific circulation, empirical data on the problem under study are obtained, and didactic tools for a “fresh” lesson are developed.Practical significance: practical recommendations are proposed for organizing “fresh” training lessons on the territory of the green zone of an educational institution, recommendations and the development of a training lesson in Physics for undergraduate students of universities, colleges or high school students.Results: the changes in the motivation of students in the conditions of a new type of practical training for a university, college and school - a “fresh” lesson in nature are considered, the importance of “fresh” pedagogical fresh technologies for the health keeping of students and the greening of the educational process is disclosed, the results of an empirical study on implementation of “fresh” training lessons in the educational process of the university.
OCULAR SURFACE COMFORT AND FACE MASKS: DRY EYE EPIDEMIC AMID COVID 19 PANDEMIC?
Authors: V. Ivancheva V. Ivancheva , A. Lyubenov A. Lyubenov
Published: August 2023

PURPOSE: The purpose of this research is evaluating the effects of wearing face masks on ocular health among medical students in the current COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: The study includes 147 students in total, all are from Medical University in Pleven. They were interviewed anonymously about their eye health and comfort during periods of wearing face masks. RESULTS: Findings of the study highlighted that wearing face masks for prolonged periods decreases eye comfort levels. Most common presenting complaints were dryness, grittiness, scratchiness, soreness, burning and watering. Almost one quarter of interviewed students sometimes experienced eye fatigue or ocular discomfort. Severity of symptoms was described as “tolerable” in 30.8%, “uncomfortable” in 13%. Of the asked students 25.4% answered that their symptoms were getting worse while being with a protective face mask. In terms of longest uninterrupted time wearing face masks, results show: almost 20% reported more than 5 hours without break. CONCLUSIONS: As a conclusion of this study, it was observed that eye health and dry eye symptoms among medical students was adversely affected by wearing full face covering protective masks during the pandemic situation, which interferes with the quality of life and is an emerging public health issue.
What Really Matters in Early Bilingual and Biliteracy Acquisition?
Authors: Ke Sihui (Echo) , Xia Yuyan , Zhang Jing
Published: August 2023

Home language and literacy input (HLLI) is critical for linguistic and literacy development in bilingual children. This exploratory study investigated home oral, and print input for Chinese heritage language learners between four and six years old in the United States and aimed to identify salient types of input associated with speaking and reading abilities in the heritage language (Chinese) and the societal language (English). Fifty-three parents completed a HLLI questionnaire and rated the speaking and reading competencies in Chinese and English of their children. The relationships between HLLI and bilingual abilities were examined via principal component analysis and regression. There were two major findings: first, Chinese speaking ability mainly depended on oral language exchange between parents and their children, as well as print exposure to Chinese; Chinese reading ability was associated with oral language exchange between parents and their children, as well as pinyin/bopomofo practice at home. Second, both speaking and reading abilities in English were significantly and positively related to children’s interest in reading English only. Evidence-based recommendations are provided regarding home language and literacy practices for young Chinese heritage language learners in the United States.
Chinese Heritage Language Maintenance in the Context of Superdiversity
Authors: Chen Lin , Wang Danping
Published: August 2023

Situated in the context of migration trends toward superdiversity in Anglophone countries, this study conceptualizes Chinese heritage language (CHL) learners as complex social beings with increasingly diverse language repertories, migration histories, and socioeconomic statuses. Failing to understand such diversity in language maintenance and language shift may lead to oversimplifying the process of Chinese language maintenance and consequently perpetuating educational inequities in overseas Chinese education. The study analysed questionnaire data from 56 CHL learners who identified as dialect speakers in a New Zealand university. Findings show that CHL learners are indeed a linguistically and socioculturally diverse group. There is a clear shift towards English among participants as they approached adulthood, with some also speaking non-Chinese languages like Khmer. While Chinese dialects remain prevalent within their homes, younger generations exhibit a decrease in the number of Chinese dialects spoken. Surprisingly, Mandarin, despite being the primary language resource for Chinese education, is underutilized and tends to remain at a low proficiency level. This study concludes by offering implications to policymakers and Chinese curriculum developers to provide genuine support for maintaining and learning the Chinese language within the increasingly diverse Chinese diaspora.
Hernández de la Fuente, David (2023), Prolegómenos a una Ciencia de la Antigüedad. Editorial Síntesis, Madrid, 190 páginas, ISBN: 978-84-1357-238-35.
Authors: Munilla-Antoñanzas Javier
Published: August 2023

Book Review
Patrones espaciales asociados a la distribución de estadios inmaduros de Aedes aegypti en tres municipios de alto riesgo para el departamento del Cauca, Colombia
Authors: Gutierrez Cristina Sanchez , Santamaría Erika , Morales Carlos Andrés , Lesmes María Camila , Cadena Horacio , Avila-Diaz Alvaro , Fuya Patricia , Marceló-Díaz Catalina
Published: August 2023

Los mosquitos Aedes aegypti son el principal vector de las arbovirosis humanas en zonas tropicales y subtropicales. Su adaptación a entornos urbanos y rurales genera infestaciones en el intradomicilio de las viviendas. De aquí que, la vigilancia entomológica en asociación con el análisis espacial y el análisis espacio-temporal sean un enfoque innovador para el control de vectores y la gestión del dengue.El objetivo principal de la investigación fue realizar una comparación de la vigilancia entomológica, mediante el uso de índices cuantitativos de pupas y de adultos en tres municipios de alto riesgo de dengue Patía (El Bordo), Miranda y Piamonte del departamento del Cauca, con el fin de examinar cómo influye la productividad de pupas, entre índices entomológicos, en la densidad de mosquitos adultos y otros patrones espaciales y temporales. Ae. aegypti , sus índices entomológicos y su caracterización espacial. Los resultados sugieren que, para las especies de Ae. aegypti , la productividad de pupas genera altas densidades de adultos en las viviendas vecinas, evidenciando un comportamiento estacional.Estos resultados son de gran importancia ya que proporciona una estrategia innovadora para la mitigación de enfermedades transmitidas por vectores utilizando patrones espaciales de los vectores y su asociación con indicadores entomológicos y lugares de cría en barrios de alto riesgo para la transmisión del dengue.
INVESTIGATION ON THE EFFECT OF DIAGRID STRUCTURAL SYSTEM ON DOUBLE SKIN FACADE FORMATION IN HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS
Authors: EŞER Serap
Published: August 2023

The development of industrialization and technology since the 20th century has led to an increase in the population and consequently energy requirements, the depletion of natural resources and many environmental problems. High-rise buildings cause serious energy consumption as a result of the high heat losses and gains due to the advanced technologies which is used in the construction and operation of the building and due to the high glass ratios. Aim: The aim of this study is to examine the effect of the diagrid system on the double skin facade formation in high-rise buildings through examples, and to provide guidance on the selection of the appropriate system for designers. Method: By using the qualitative research method, the characteristics of the sample tall buildings using the diagrid system and the double skin facade system were examined and a comparative analysis was made under certain headings. Results: In all of the buildings in the sample group, it is seen that the double skin facade system is configured in the corridor type. Considering the reasons leading to the corridor-type double skin facade formation of the examined structures, it is noteworthy that the diagrid structural system modules are emphasized on the exterior skin. In addition, the ring beam level plays a decisive role in the horizontal division of the double skin facade air space. Conclusion: In this context, it has been concluded that the diagrid system in the sample buildings forces the double skin facade system to a corridor type structure due to its tendency to emphasize the inclined columns on the exterior and its structural necessities.
HYBRID APPROXIMATION METHOD FOR TIME RESPONSE IMPROVEMENT OF CFE BASED APPROXIMATE FRACTIONAL ORDER DERIVATIVE MODELS BY USING GRADIENT DESCENT ALGORITHM
Authors: KÖSEOĞLU Murat , DENİZ Furkan Nur , ALAGÖZ Barış Baykant
Published: August 2023

Due to its high computational complexity, fractional order (FO) derivative operators have been widely implemented by using rational transfer function approximation methods. Since these methods commonly utilize frequency domain approximation techniques, their time responses may not be prominent for time-domain solutions. Therefore, time response improvements for the approximate FO derivative models can contribute to real-world performance of FO applications. Recent works address the hybrid use of popular frequency-domain approximation methods and time-domain approximation methods to deal with time response performance problems. In this context, this study presents a hybrid approach that implements Continued Fraction Expansion (CFE) method as frequency domain approximation and applies the gradient descent optimization (GDO) for step response improvement of the CFE-based approximate model of FO derivative operators. It was observed that GDO can fine-tune coefficients of CFE-based rational transfer function models, and this hybrid use can significantly improve step and impulse responses of CFE-based approximate models of derivative operators. Besides, we demonstrate analog circuit realization of this optimized transfer function model of the FO derivative element according to the sum of low pass active filters in Multisim and Matlab simulation environments. Performance improvements of hybrid CFE-GDO approximation method were demonstrated in comparison with the stand-alone CFE method.
Realization of interests through private and public law
Authors: Tumanov D. A.
Published: August 2023

The article reflects a discussion about the meaning of the division of law into private and public. The author agrees with the researchers, who believe that through any legal norm, regardless of its sectoral affiliation, both private and public interests are realized. In this case, we are even talking about the fact that in itself the ordering of social relations by any legal norm is essential for society and does not allow chaos in relations. The civil law regulation itself contains a mechanism that ensures a balance of both various private and public interests. Confirmation of this to a greater or lesser extent can be found in almost any norm of civil law. Public law, like private law, ensures the implementation of both public and private interests. Entering into various public legal relations in many cases is aimed at satisfying the interests of individuals and is based on their will. Public and private legal blocks are characterized by many features. Raising the question of public and private legal blocks, must understand that the regimes (methods) for regulating social relations by them are more than important, since the establishment of a regime that does not correspond to the essence of certain relations can lead to the impossibility of realizing certain kinds of interests. Thus, the realization of interests (especially private ones) through civil legal relations is mainly possible in the regime of free will. In public branches of law, at least one of the parties does not have the freedom to decide whether to enter into a legal relationship. In addition, as a general rule, unlike private legal relations, public legal relations imply a certain control, which is necessary to ensure both public and private interests.
Actual seizure of land for state and municipal needs: legal nature and methods of protection
Authors: Frolova N. M.
Published: August 2023

This article considers the institution of the actual seizure of land plots for state and municipal needs, which is not provided for by legislation, but recognized by judicial practice: its legal nature and methods of protection that legal entities can use in the event of the actual seizure of land plots from them. The article contains an analysis of individual court decisions, which made it possible to identify existing gaps in the legal regulation of relations related to the actual seizure of land for state needs. In particular, the issues concerning the ways of protecting the owner of the actually seized land plot remain not fully settled. The current legislation has not developed effective legal mechanisms to protect the rights and legitimate interests of right holders, has not formulated a unified approach to determining the equivalence and fairness of compensation provided to the right holder when withdrawing land for state needs. The solution of these issues will ensure a balance of public and private interests.
A novel interaction between long non-coding RNA lncTCF7 and SND1 modulates the gene regulation activity of the SWI/SNF complex
Authors:   , Yankey Allison Alizabeth , Yankey Allison Alizabeth , Somarowthu Srinivas
Published: August 2023

Mammalian genomes have widespread transcription, with over two-thirds of the genome transcribed to yield thousands of noncoding transcripts. Among noncoding RNAs, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as critical players in gene regulation. LncRNAs are RNA transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides with no protein-coding capacity, and their expression is often specific to disease states, developmental stages, and tissue types. LncRNAs are versatile molecules that form RNA-RNA, RNA-DNA, and RNA-protein interactions and modulate diverse cellular functions, including but not limited to chromatin remodeling, transcription regulation, and mRNA decay and stability. The lncRNA lncTCF7 is key in regulating cancer progression in multiple cancer types. The proposed model of lncTCF7's function suggests that lncTCF7 activates gene expression by recruiting the SWI/SNF complex to the promoter of the gene TCF7 to activate WNT signaling, which is a commonly deregulated pathway in malignant cancers. However, the mechanism behind this recruitment process remains unclear, and lncTCF7-specific binding partners are unknown. Using RNA-pulldown and quantitative mass spectrometry, we identified a novel interacting protein partner for lncTCF7, SND1, a multifunctional RNA binding protein that can also function as a transcription co-activator. Knockdown analysis of lncTCF7 and SND1 revealed they are both required to upregulate TCF7, an important WNT signaling pathway transcription regulator. We also investigate the mechanism behind this gene regulation using chromatin immuno-precipitation and find that both SND1 and lncTCF7 recruit other factors to the promoter of TCF7. Specifically, lncTCF7 recruits SND1, while SND1 recruits the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, and these functions in tandem activate the expression of TCF7. Finally, using structural probing and a lncTCF7 subdomain-specific RNA pulldown, we highlight the potential binding region for SND1 in the 3'-end domain of lncTCF7. Overall, this study highlights the critical roles played by lncRNAs in regulating gene expression and provides new insights into the complex network of interactions that underlie this process.
Controversias sobre la ampliación de plazo en el marco de la obra pública
Authors: García Valdez Leandro
Published: August 2023

En el presente trabajo, el autor desarrolla una bitácora del estado de las controversias sobre ampliaciones de plazo en el marco de la obra pública. En primer lugar, expone los aspectos generales de dicho remedio legal. En segundo lugar, comenta las principales controversias suscitadas en los procesos arbitrales, a partir del contraste entre la posición que suelen tener algunas entidades públicas para denegar una ampliación de plazo, frente a lo regulado en la norma, lo desarrollado por la doctrina y lo resuelto en laudos. Ello con el objetivo de verificar el asidero de lo señalado por las entidades públicas.
Contratos Estándares Internacionales de Construcción: apuntes para una eventual regulación de estos modelos en la normativa de Contrataciones del Estado
Authors: Medina Flores Juan Carlos
Published: August 2023

A raíz de la fama que están adquiriendo los contratos entre Estados celebrados por diferentes entidades públicas peruanas, mediante los cuales un Estado extranjero presta el servicio de asistencia técnica especializada en la ejecución de importantes proyectos de infraestructura de diversa índole, como los Juegos Panamericanos, las obras de la Reconstrucción con Cambios, el Aeropuerto Internacional de Chinchero, las escuelas bicentenario, el Estado peruano viene buscando la implementación de las diferentes herramientas usadas en la ejecución de estos proyectos en la normativa nacional. Dentro de estas herramientas, una de las que más fama ha obtenido en los últimos años son los Contratos Estándares Internacionales de Construcción.De esta manera, ya existe normativa nacional que recoge estos modelos de contrato y los pone a disposición de ciertas entidades para que los utilicen para la ejecución de proyectos de infraestructura. Asimismo, los últimos proyectos de ley de contrataciones del Estado (que no han sido aprobados) muestran la tendencia del gobierno de regular a los contratos estándares internacionales de construcción para la ejecución de obras públicas. En este artículo, busco explicar qué son los Contratos Estándares Internacionales de Construcción, reseñar cómo se han venido utilizando en el Perú y aportar a la discusión sobre la conveniencia de implementar estos modelos contractuales con carácter general en las obras públicas y qué elementos deben ser tomados en cuenta para ello.
El aftermath de la victoria de David ante Goliat: A propósito de la ejecución de laudos en los arbitrajes entre inversor-Estado
Authors: Bedoya Denegri Alonso
Published: August 2023

El presente artículo versa sobre el aftermath o las secuelas de la victoria del inversionista en arbitrajes entre inversor-Estado (ISDS). De tal manera, abordaremos sobre la problemática del inversionista que muchas veces no puede ver materializada la decisión contenida en el laudo, pues sin perjuicio de que este lo determine como la parte vencedora, el Estado, por distintas razones, bien podría negarse a acatarlo. Así, la victoria arbitral termina por convertirse en una victoria pírrica, en donde el vencedor triunfa, pero obteniendo más daños que el vencido.En ese escenario, el autor hace referencia a las figuras del pasaje bíblico de David y Goliat para ejemplificar y equiparar la dantesca hazaña a la que cada inversor debe someterse para poder lograr ejecutar un laudo arbitral en contra de un Estado, el cual contiene montos millonarios en calidad de reparaciones e indemnizaciones. Así, desarrollaremos que dicha dantesca hazaña empieza con un due dilligence y un posterior asset hunting, lo que en buena cuenta significa que el inversionista deberá identificar y perseguir activos pertenecientes al Estado vencido, siempre que se traten de activos de índole comercial y no estén determinados como bienes soberanos.En consecuencia, se analizará el procedimiento antes descrito en dos escenarios: (i) cuando el mecanismo de arbitraje haya nacido de algún tratado bilateral, multilateral y por ende sea un arbitraje de inversión y (ii) cuando el mecanismo del arbitraje haya encontrato su génesis en un contrato comercial, con lo cual estaremos ante un arbitraje comercial.
Cláusulas escalonadas de solución de controversias: una aproximación a sus principales problemáticas
Authors: Rodríguez Uriol Dario Andrés
Published: August 2023

Las cláusulas escalonadas de solución de controversias son un tipo de convenio arbitral muy popular hoy en día. Estas cláusulas prevén que, para solucionar las controversias que surjan en torno a una relación contractual, las partes podrán o deberán recurrir a más de un mecanismo de solución de controversias, los cuales serán utilizados de forma progresiva, uno después de otro. Si bien este tipo de pactos pueden presentar ventajas para las partes, también pueden llegar a ser cláusulas problemáticas que, de diseñarse o gestionarse de forma inadecuada, pueden ser fuente de conflictos adicionales a los ya surgidos. Por ello, en el presente artículo, se analizarán las principales problemáticas que surgen en torno a este tipo de acuerdos. Más concretamente, se analizan tres problemáticas en torno a las etapas pre arbitrales: su obligatoriedad, los factores más relevantes a tener en cuenta para su ejecución y cumplimiento, y las consecuencias que su incumplimiento trae para el proceso arbitral.