bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Posthuman Body as an EcoGothic Wasteland in Allison Cobb’s After We All Died and Adam Dickinson’s Anatomic
Authors: Ambroży Paulina
Published: November 2023

The focus of my inquiry are environmentally inflected metaphors and discourses of toxicity which inform the contemporary North American posthuman lyric. This provisional generic category of the posthuman lyric has been inspired by the recent shift from an anthropocentric understanding of lyric subjectivities to a biocentric perspective which repositions human epistemologies in relation to more-than-human matter. The posthuman angle questions the concept of the sovereign human self, stressing transversal ontologies, open to inter-agential exchanges, diverse biosemiotic processes and communication loops. My primary interest is in poetic representations of the human body as a transversal, toxic, catastrophe- and death-haunted wasteland. The volumes chosen to problematize those processes are Allison Cobb’s After We All Died (2016), an elegiac meditation on the dying human species and anthropogenic change, and Adam Dickinson’s Anatomic (2018), which probes the leaky perimeters of the chemical self using an electronic microscope and burden tests of the poet’s own bodily tissues. The posthumanist angle which informs the analyses is supplemented with an ecoGothic one, as both critical paradigms can be seen as interrogatory discourses which probe human fears and hopes concerning the “edge of the human” and the recognition of non-human agency. Within the ecoGothic framework, nature is seen as “a contested site”—a “space of crisis,” where human and non-human ecologies interact and co-produce meaning. This double lens will be used for the study of posthuman imaginaries and Anthropocene affects employed by Dickinson and Cobb.
“English with a Polish Accent and a Slight Touch of Irish”: Multilingualism in Polish Migrant Theatre
Authors: Prykowska-Michalak Karolina , Grabarczyk Izabela
Published: November 2023

Issues of migration writing (see Kosmalska) and migrant theatre have recently gained prominence, leading to an increase in research focused on analyzing the theatrical works of artists with a migrant background. This phenomenon is part of a broader trend in intercultural and, often, postcolonial studies. Contemporary Polish migrant theatre is a subject that has not been thoroughly explored yet. Among many methods applied in the study of migrant theatre, intercultural studies or the so-called new interculturalism take the lead. These concepts draw on bilingualism or multilingualism practices, which are slowly taking a more significant role in migrant theatre studies. This article analyzes two theatre plays staged by Polish migrants in Ireland and in the United Kingdom in the context of linguistic practices that exemplify and help define the concept of transnational drama.
Trends in Palate Surgery for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Korea Over the Past 12 Years
Authors: Cho Jae Hoon , Choi Ji Ho
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: In the past, palate surgery, such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), was widely performed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, since the introduction of reimbursement for positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy in 2018, it is believed that the frequency of these operations has significantly declined. Despite this, there are currently no definitive data to support this assertion.Methods: We examined the number of palate operations conducted by utilizing medical statistical data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRA) Bigdata Open portal. Within this system, we queried UPPP (Q2196), UPPP_complex (Q2195), and uvulectomy (Q2197), and collected data spanning from 2010 to 2021. The data were then analyzed according to hospital type, sex, and age groups.Results: In total, 2,728 palate operations were performed in 2010; this number peaked at 4,330 cases in 2014, and then steadily decreased to 3,096 cases in 2021. Of the operations in 2010, 1,892 were conducted in general hospitals, while 836 took place in primary hospitals and clinics. However, by 2021, the number of operations performed in general hospitals had decreased to 1,002, while those performed in primary hospitals and clinics had increased to 2,093. The most common age group for these operations was 30–39 for men and 40–49 for women. Since 2019, the proportion of palate operations relative to the number of OSA patients has decreased.Conclusion: The frequency of palate surgery in Korea started to decrease after 2014. Despite this, there was an increase in the number of these operations performed in hospitals and clinics, with middle-aged patients being the primary recipients. The ratio of palate operations to OSA patients has shown a notable decrease after the introduction of reimbursement of polysomnography and PAP therapy.
Extracellular Hsp70 Is Involved in the CXCL12/CXCR4 Pathway in Primary Human Nasal Epithelial Cells: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Kim Seong Hee , Kahng Dong Young , Kim Kyung Soo , Min Hyun Jin
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: To date, no studies have been conducted on the interaction between extracellular heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) and C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) in the upper airway. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between extracellular Hsp70 and CXCR4 and their role in the primary human nasal epithelium.Methods: We cultured primary human nasal epithelial (HNE) cells in an air–liquid interface. Macrogen performed single-cell quantitative polymerase chain reaction and sequencing. We conducted western blot analysis for the CXCR4 and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways.Results: Extracellular Hsp70 treatment significantly increased the genetic expression and protein levels of CXCR4 in primary HNE cells. Phospho-ERK expression was increased by cotreatment with Hsp70 and CXCL12, but inhibited by pretreatment with AMD3100, a CXCR4 inhibitor. Pretreatment with an anti-Hsp70 antibody reduced phospho-ERK expression upregulation induced by cotreatment with Hsp70 and CXCL12.Conclusion: Extracellular Hsp70 participates in the activation of the CXCR4-dependent downstream signaling pathway in HNE cells. Further studies should evaluate the extracellular Hsp70-CXCL12/CXCR4 axis and the role of its components in the development of inflammatory diseases.
Effects of a Proton-Pump Inhibitor on Postnasal Drip Symptoms in Patients With Laryngopharyngeal Reflux
Authors: Lee Jun Yong , Kang Seung Heon , Cho Min Jai , Jung Hahn Jin
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is an increasingly common disease, characterized by stomach acid reflux reaching the upper airways. Postnasal drip (PND) is a known consequence of LPR, defined as mucus accumulation perceived in the posterior areas of the nose and throat. PND is among the most common causes of persistent cough, hoarseness, sore throat, and other symptoms, affecting the quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) on PND symptoms in patients with LPR.Methods: We prospectively enrolled patients diagnosed with LPR at our institution between September 2019 and June 2020. The patients were randomly assigned to either the treatment group (20 mg of ilaprazole daily for 8 weeks) or the control group. The scores for the Reflux Symptom Index (RSI), Reflux Finding Score (RFS), and Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT)-20 were evaluated at baseline and at the end of treatment, focusing on PND symptoms.Results: Eighty patients (28 men and 52 women; mean age, 48.8 years, range, 22–78 years) were enrolled, with 43 in the treatment group and 37 in the control group. The initial RSI, RFS, and SNOT-20 scores were similar between the two groups, and they decreased significantly only in the treatment group (p=0.002, p<0.001, and p=0.015, respectively). However, the PND symptom scores showed a significant decrease in the treatment group only in the RSI (p=0.012).Conclusion: PPI treatment for 8 weeks may be effective in improving PND symptoms in patients with LPR.
The Relationship Between Zonulin and Asthma: A Mouse Model Study
Authors: Hong Joon-Pyo , Kang Sung Hun , Chu Jinah , Byeon Sun-Ju , Lee Hyunjoo , Choi Jeong-Hee , Lee Kyung Chul , Hong Seok Jin
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Zonulin is a human protein that regulates intercellular tight junctions and increases the permeability of the intestinal epithelium. In light of the increasing focus on zonulin’s role in numerous chronic inflammatory diseases, this study aimed to investigate whether differences exist in serum zonulin levels and bronchial epithelium zonulin expression in vivo between asthma and normal groups, using a mouse model.Methods: Sixteen mice were utilized in this study, divided evenly between the normal and asthma groups. Serum zonulin levels, the expression of zonulin antibody in the bronchial epithelium, and serum cytokine levels were evaluated in both groups. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and RNA in situ hybridization were utilized for the analysis.Results: The asthma group exhibited significantly higher levels of serum zonulin. High zonulin antibody expression was also observed in the bronchial epithelium of the asthma group. Given that our mouse model demonstrated a significant difference in interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-6 between the normal and asthma groups, zonulin may be associated not only with type 2 responses but also with various subtypes of asthma. Further studies are required to investigate this relationship in greater detail.Conclusion: Zonulin may play a role in the complex pathophysiology of asthma and could serve as a biomarker in various asthma-related situations.
Redefining Isolation Distance Standards for Quality Seed Production in Hybrid Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Mill sp.]
Authors: Kona Prabhavathi , Rao P Jagan mohana , Rao R.G.S , Latha V. Swarna
Published: November 2023

Background: Adopting adequate isolation distances is one of the very crucial principles and practices of quality seed production. Upon research and continuous evaluation, isolation distances for each crop, kind and cultivar have been determined in almost all cultivable crops. The development of hybrids through various mechanisms has led to redefining isolation distances in a few crops like pigeonpea based upon the principles of pollination ecology and the activity of various pollinators. Methods: Our study on the direction of male and female blocks, activity and frequency of pollinators and their effect on production potential and quality of seed was systematically conducted at various isolation distances viz., 100, 150, 200, 250, 300 and 400 m between female (A) and male (R) lines. Result: Our empirical information depicts that an isolation distance of 400 m between male and female parents reduces the chances of genetic contamination and hence the isolation distance in case of hybrid seed production of pigeonpea shall be redefined as 400 m.
Algoritmo de gradiente 2D para la reducción del ruido en imágenes radiológicas
Authors: Collazos-Ramírez Jhonatan , Jojoa Pablo-Emilio , Hoyos Juan-Pablo
Published: November 2023

En áreas como el procesamiento de imágenes biomédicas las técnicas o métodos para recuperar el contenido en señales que están contaminadas con ruido son indispensables. Una de ellas ha sido el filtrado adaptativo que, al ajustarse a la señal deseada a través de la actualización en tiempo real de los coeficientes permite el mejoramiento y la deconvolución en la recuperación de imágenes degradadas o contaminadas, logrando atraer la atención de investigadores en problemas inversos. En este artículo el algoritmo del gradiente 2D-AR  es utilizado en la reducción de ruido en imágenes radiológicas dentales, para lo cual se realizan simulaciones para obtener la mejor configuración de los hiperparámetros y se realiza un análisis estadístico de los valores obtenidos. Con base en los resultados de la simulación y las métricas establecidas, se demuestra que el algoritmo logra una reducción del ruido estadísticamente superior que los otros algoritmos del gradiente 2D (LMS y NLMS).
En áreas como el procesamiento de imágenes biomédicas las técnicas o métodos para recuperar el contenido en señales que están contaminadas con ruido son indispensables. Una de ellas ha sido el filtrado adaptativo que, al ajustarse a la señal deseada a través de la actualización en tiempo real de los coeficientes permite el mejoramiento y la deconvolución en la recuperación de imágenes degradadas o contaminadas, logrando atraer la atención de investigadores en problemas inversos. En este artículo el algoritmo del gradiente 2D-AR  es utilizado en la reducción de ruido en imágenes radiológicas dentales, para lo cual se realizan simulaciones para obtener la mejor configuración de los hiperparámetros y se realiza un análisis estadístico de los valores obtenidos. Con base en los resultados de la simulación y las métricas establecidas, se demuestra que el algoritmo logra una reducción del ruido estadísticamente superior que los otros algoritmos del gradiente 2D (LMS y NLMS).
EFL Teachers’ Professional Development. A Narrative Inquiry into Lesson Planning During the Pandemic
Authors: TROYA SÁNCHEZ MIRIAM EUCEVIA , BENÍTEZ CORREA CARMEN DELIA
Published: November 2023

This narrative inquiry explored how an EFL teacher’s lived experiences during the pandemic helped her to reconstruct her lesson plans as a manifestation of professionalism. Her students were adults with unfinished schooling from the prioritized curriculum. Data was collected through interviews, lesson plans, a reflective journal, and WhatsApp screenshots. Results showed that her classes were limited to brief text, voice, and video messages. There was no individual or immediate feedback. The dialogic interaction during the narrative inquiry was a mediational tool that activated the teacher’s reflections on her past lessons, which guided her to adjust her present and future pedagogical practices.
Pedagogía museística para la educación científica
Authors: Torres Merchán Nidia Yaneth , Vargas Aguilar Edgar Eduardo , Pineda Caro Diana Yicela , Pedreros Benavides Eliana Yizeth , Perdomo Vanegas Gustavo Adolfo , Cadena Reyes Mayra Lorena , Sintura Cristancho Richard Alejandro
Published: November 2023

Los museos juegan un papel importante en la culturalización de la ciudadanía, aspecto que contribuye a mantener viva la memoria histórica y a fortalecer los procesos educativos al ser herramientas de enseñanza y aprendizaje fuera del aula. Este texto presenta un compendio de guías para trabajar en el Museo de Historia Natural de la UPTC, con el propósito de favorecer procesos de apropiación científica en todos los contextos educativos.Este manual se presenta como producto de las actividades académicas, investigativas y de extensión de los proyectos de investigación denominados: Memoria del Museo de Historia Natural de la Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia (UPTC): Reconocimiento al aporte del profesor Luis Gonzalo Andrade en la Educación Científica, con SGI 2296, y El Museo de Historia Natural: un espacio de enculturación científica, proyecto apoyado por el Ministerio de Cultura-Programa Nacional de Concertación Cultural. Investigaciones que fundamentaron reflexiones sobre cómo los museos pueden apoyar el proceso educativo en las escuelas y fortalecer las competencias en el ámbito de la cultura científica.De esta manera, este manual busca orientar actividades de formación y divulgación científica con base en las colecciones del Museo de Historia Natural (MHN) Luis Gonzalo Andrade, para la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de las ciencias naturales y la educación ambiental, a partir de una relación dialógica entre el museo y la escuela. Así mismo valorar las fuentes de conocimiento que representa este museo y fortalecer las actividades de extensión universitaria desde estrategias de divulgación sobre cultura científica en el ámbito de la educación.
Trayectorias y Aprendizajes.
Authors: Rátiva Marlén , Nayibe Ruth , Elvira Diana , Patricia María , del Lesly , Esperanza Lidia , Elvira Carmen , Báez Miryam , María Angélica , Cecilia Nancy , Lorena Mirtha , Alexandra Grecia , Torres Esther , Carlos Juan , Alfredo Jorge , Meredith Sonia , Nelly Aura , Alfonso John , Victoria Elsa , Lucía Martha , Mauricio Walter , Cristina Nidia , López Dioné , Lucy María
Published: November 2023

Esta obra es resultado del trabajo de la asesoría y acompañamiento que el Programa Escuelas Normales Superiores en convenio con la UPTC, ha hecho a las instituciones educativas encargadas de la formación inicial de maestros. En sus páginas se describen diferentes experiencias pedagógicas e investigativas relacionadas con la historia de las Escuelas Normales Superiores, la formación docente y la inclusión educativa. El propósito de ese libro es servir de fundamento para la actividad académica de formación de maestros, como trabajo preliminar para futuras investigaciones y como medio de difusión de las labores que realizan los maestros de las Escuelas Normales Superiores, en su laboriosa tarea de formar maestros.Palabras clave: Formación inicial de maestros; Escuelas Normales Superiores; Inclusión educativa; Experiencias pedagógicas; Investigación educativa.
Análisis de la velocidad en la interceptación del balón en porteros de fútbol de salón, basado en detección de movimiento.
Authors: Pineda Rojas Jairo Almir , Daza Wittinghan William Abel , Callejas Cuervo Mauro
Published: November 2023

La tecnología constituye un apoyo al entrenamiento deportivo que influye en la preparación del jugador. Este libro informa sobre el análisis de la velocidad de intercepción del balón en porteros de fútbol de salón. Para ello, se creó una herramienta basada en sensores inerciales y magnéticos, y una plataforma de contacto que permitió el análisis de la velocidad de intercepción. Luego, se diseñó un procedimiento para ejecutar una serie de pruebas y se llevaron a cabo una serie de ensayos para definir los factores a evaluar. Las características antropométricas que presentaron los porteros seleccionados fueron similares según edad, peso e índice de masa corporal, lo que permitió homogeneidad en las muestras. Los resultados mostraron que el 50% de las intercepciones a la derecha del portero tuvieron una velocidad baja; El 40% una velocidad media y el 10% rápidos. Además, con respecto a la velocidad a la izquierda del portero, el 40% se encontraba en el rango bajo y el 60% en el Rango Medio. Se puede concluir que la plataforma es un medio preciso y ergonómico para medir la velocidad de intercepción del balón en los porteros.Palabras Clave: Velocidad de interceptación; Fútbol de salón; Sensores inerciales y magnéticos; Captura de movimiento; Rendimiento deportivo, MEMS.
Tesoros fósiles de Firavitoba.
Authors: Vergara Inés , E. Laura , Patiño Luz , Díaz Jhonathan , Barrantes Laura
Published: November 2023

En esta obra de divulgación científica converge la ciencia y el arte en la interpretación paleoambiental del miembro superior calcáreo de la Formación Tibasosa. El texto se complementa con ilustraciones científicas sobre conceptos básicos de geología y paleontología que apoyan la comprensión de los análisis bioestratigráficos, los procesos tectosedimentarios y los análisis taxonómicos de la paleofauna marina. Se aplican técnicas de ilustración como puntillismo, diagramación, teoría del color y el uso de software digital, para reconstruir detalles morfológicos de los especímenes analizados y generar recursos visuales para públicos con diferentes grados de especialización en la temática. El análisis de los fósiles permite identificar 12 taxones de la paleofauna marina: cuatro de la clase gasterópoda, cuatro de la clase bivalvia, tres de la clase echinoidea, y uno de la clase cephallopoda; así mismo, se interpreta que el ambiente de depositación corresponde a una plataforma interna de aguas tranquilas y someras con temperatura cálida y salinidad normal. Los autores destacan la importancia de la geología social para dinamizar la relación entre la academia y la comunidad, fomentar la conservación del patrimonio en espacios de apropiación social del conocimiento y visibilizar el potencial fosilífero de Firavitoba, Boyacá, un municipio poco explorado a nivel paleontológico.Palabras clave: Paleontología. Reconstrucción Paleoambiental. Ilustración Científica. Bioestratigrafía. Invertebrados. Geología Social.
Masokhisme dalam Perspektif Fenomenologi Tubuh-Subjek Merleau-Ponty
Authors: Kurniawan Kurniawan
Published: November 2023

Masokhisme, dalam kajian psikoanalisis, umumnya dipandang sebagai sindrom patologi berupa gangguan mental. Menganggap masokhisme sebagai gejala mental semata berarti memisahkan pikiran dan tubuh. Padahal, masokhisme selalu terjadi dari dan melalui tubuh. Karena itu, penelitian ini bermaksud menggambarkan peran dan posisi tubuh dalam masokhisme dalam perspektif fenomenologi tubuh-subjek Merleau-Ponty. Metode yang dipakai adalah hermeneutika, dengan unsur-unsur metodis berupa interpretasi, kesinambungan historis, heuristika, dan refleksi. Penelitian ini menghasilkan beberapa kesimpulan. Pertama, tubuh masokhis adalah tubuh-subjek. Saat berlangsung praktik masokhisme, seorang masokhis tidak berpikir mengenai tubuh, tetapi sebagai tubuh. Tubuh masokhis lebih banyak “tahu” dari yang dapat dipikirkan. Kedua, tubuh masokhis adalah being in the world. Seorang masokhis memaknai keberadaan dirinya dan orang lain di dalam dunia dengan tubuhnya. Karena itu, tubuh masokhis dan dunia tidak dapat dipisahkan. Ketiga, tubuh masokhis adalah kesadaran eksistensi. Kesadaran eksistensi muncul karena adanya pengalaman perseptual yang berulang-ulang pada tubuh masokhis. Pengalaman perseptual ini berasal dari relasi pikiran dan tubuh secara keseluruhan. Keempat, tubuh masokhis adalah tindak bahasa. Melalui tubuhnya, seorang masokhis melakukan gerakan tertentu sebagai bentuk komunikasi dengan pasangannya. Dengan begitu, bahasa tidak berada di luar tubuh masokhis, namun mendiami tubuh itu.
O TESTEMUNHO NA LITERATURA DE FLUXOS MIGRATÓRIOS
Authors: Mathias Dionei
Published: November 2023

Este artigo tem como objetivo discutir a intersecção entre literatura de testemunho e a literatura de fluxos migratórios, a fim de verificar como esses dois campos de estudo se interconectam. Na primeira parte, revisita conceitos-chave da literatura de testemunho, com o propósito de apresentar a fundamentação teórica adotada para a discussão. Na segunda parte, analisa o texto In der Fremde sprechen die Bäume Arabisch do escritor Usama Al Shahmani. O romance faz uso de diferentes estratégias para encontrar uma forma verbal, capaz de se aproximar da exposição das atrocidades perpetradas no Iraque.
O TEMPO DA TRANSMISSÃO EM A CHAVE DE CASA, DE TATIANA SALEM LEVY E A RESISTÊNCIA, DE JULIÁN FUKS
Authors: Da Cruz Lua Gill
Published: November 2023

Passados mais de cinquenta anos dos golpes de Estado na América Latina, há um “giro geracional”, nos termos de Leonor Arfuch, na produção contemporânea. Com uma escrita de “segunda geração”, autores e autoras nascidos depois do período histórico, herdeiros dos traumas de outro(s), reabrem o passado histórico e familiar na literatura. Esse é o caso dos romances de Tatiana Salem Levy, A chave de casa, e de Julián Fuks, A resistência, em que autores filhos e filhas de perseguidos durante os períodos militares tomam de assalto a palavra sobre esse passado. Este artigo buscará debater como a literatura lida com esse deslocamento temporal observando, especialmente, como o trauma da violência ditatorial segue produzindo efeitos subjetivos e sociais nas gerações seguintes e de que forma se manifesta literariamente. Também se debruçará sobre a teoria do trauma e as transmissões dos eventos traumáticos às gerações seguintes.
UMA BUSCA POR RASTROS
Authors: Rocha Ribeiro Renata
Published: November 2023

Este artigo visa investigar, no romance Lengua madre (2010), de María Teresa Andruetto, a presença de objetos que funcionam como representações da memória que se relacionam tanto com a individualidade da protagonista quando com a coletividade em que está inserida. Nossa hipótese de leitura é a de os objetos presentes no romance são possibilidades de uma narrativa literária de teor testemunhal. Os objetos, bem como o silêncio que os circunda, referentes à ditadura argentina são as bases sobre as quais se constrói nossa discussão, cujo objetivo é analisar tais elementos como transmissores da memória, bem como uma estratégia narrativa capaz de apresentar subjetividades, afetividades e discursos sócio-históricos. A fundamentação teórico-crítica é composta por Dalcastagnè (2018), Pubill (2009a; 2009b), Vázquez (2013), Sánchez (2019), entre outros.
Investigating challenges and opportunities to achieve SDG 6: a study of Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbonmwan Ruth , Al-Faraj Furat
Published: November 2023

Access to clean water and adequate sanitation improve sound health, enhance socio cultural development, and promote economic balance. This study focuses on investigating the challenges and opportunities to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 by 2030: a case study in Benin City, Nigeria. Three local government areas in Benin City (Egor, Ikpoba-Okha, and Oredo) were selected for this study. The survey involved the use of 150 structured questionnaires administered to the people from the local government areas (LGAs). A total of 127 responses were received and processed for analysis. The data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 27.0) software application. Although the Federal Government has put in measures such as the National Action Plan (NAP) to ensure that the objectives of SDG 6.1 and 6.2 are achieved, the findings of the study however have shown that there are still problems of accessibility, acceptability, availability, affordability, and quality. Seventy-eight percent of the respondents indicated to spend over 2,000 naira monthly on water while 86% indicated to pay extra changes to acquire water. 48.8% residents have to cover a long distance of 3 km in order to get water. 61.4% found water not to be safe for drinking while 84.3% indicated that the quality of water and sanitation in public places are of bad quality. 63.8% indicated to have challenges to availability of water and sanitation. A large percent of the residents indicated to have felt discriminated regarding water and sanitation because of their socio level. However, the study found lack of water and sanitation to be gender neutral, as both men and women are affected.
Clinical and Analytical Performance of ELISA Salivary Serologic Assay to Detect SARS-CoV-2 IgG in Children and Adults
Authors: Padoan Andrea , Cosma Chiara , Di Chiara Costanza , Furlan Giulia , Gastaldo Stefano , Talli Ilaria , Donà Daniele , Basso Daniela , Giaquinto Carlo , Plebani Mario
Published: November 2023

Saliva is a promising matrix with several purposes. Our aim is to verify if salivary anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody determination is suitable for monitoring immune response. One-hundred eighty-seven subjects were enrolled at University-Hospital Padova: 105 females (56.1%) and 82 males (43.9%), 95 (50.8%) children and 92 (49.2%) adults. Subjects self-collected saliva using Salivette; nineteen subjects collected three different samples within the day. A serum sample was obtained for all individuals. The N/S anti-SARS-CoV-2 salivary IgG (sal-IgG) and serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 S-RBD IgG (ser-IgG) were used for determining anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. The mean (min-max) of age was 9.0 (1–18) for children and 42.5 (20–61) for adults. Of 187 samples, 63 were negative for sal-IgG (33.7%), while 7 were negative for ser-IgG (3.7%). Spearman’s correlation was 0.56 (p<0.001). Sal-IgG and ser-IgG levels were correlated with age, but not with gender, comorbidities, prolonged therapy, previous SARS-CoV-2 infection or time from last COVID-19 infection/vaccination. The repeatability ranged from 23.8% (7.4kAU/L) to 4.0% (3.77kAU/L). Linearity of the assay missed in 4/6 samples. No significant intra-subject differences were observed in sal-IgG across samples collected at different time points. Sal-IgG have a good agreement with ser-IgG. Non-invasive saliva collection represents an alternative method for antibody measurement, especially in children.
Jacalin – Curcumin Complexes Sensitize the Triple Negative Breast Cancer MDA-MB-231 Cells
Authors: Petrova Lidiya , Gergov Nikolay Georgiev , Stoup Marie , Zapryanova Silvina , Van Damme Els J.M. , Lebègue Nicolas , Liberelle Maxime , Zasheva Diana , Bogoeva Vanya
Published: November 2023

Protein-drug interactions are crucial for understanding drug delivery and cell functions. Jacalin is a suitable molecule for such targeting, as it specifically recognizes the tu-mor-associated Thomsen-Friedenreich antigen that is expressed on the glycosylated proteins in cancer cells.
The present paper describes the interaction of curcumin and jacalin, a possible carrier molecule for the delivery of antitumor drugs due to its ability to recognize tumor cells. Our results have shown that both steady state fluorescence and fluorescent label-ling of jacalin are two reliable methods to determine jacalin-curcumin interactions. The affinity of jacalin for curcumin is consistently within the micromolar range (using flu-orescence and microscale thermophoresis) showing high-affinity binding of the com-plex. In vitro experiments on the triple negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells indi-cated inhibition of cell growth after treating with the jacalin-curcumin complex for 48 h. The cell survival fraction was significantly reduced to 50% after combined treatment. In this paper, we report for the first time about the jacalin-curcumin interaction. We quantified this unique biomolecular interaction and gathered additional information on the binding event.
We observed that the jacalin-curcumin complex inhibits the proliferation of the triple negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells.
Microbiome Dynamics of Salmo salar Skin and Gill
Authors: Godoy Marcos , Coca Yoandy , Suárez Rudy , Oca Marco Montes de , Bledsoe Jacob W. , Burbulis Ian , Caro Diego , Pontigo Juan Pablo , Maracaja-Coutinho Vinicius , Arias-Carrasco Raúl , Rodríguez-Córdova Leonardo , Sáez-Navarrete César
Published: November 2023

Maintaining the high overall health of farmed animals is a central tenant of their well-being and care. Intense animal crowding in aquaculture promotes animal especially in the absence of straightforward methods for monitoring their health. Here, we used bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing to measure population dynamics occurring during P. salmonis outbreaks. Our findings revealed a complex bacterial community consisting of a previously undescribed core pathobiome. Notably, we detected Aliivibrio wodanis and Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi on the skin ulcers of salmon infected with P. salmonis, while Vibrio spp. were enriched on infected gills. The prevalence of these co-occurring networks indicates the influence that coinfection plays in P. salmonis pathogenicity.
Methyl-Beta-Cyclodextrin Restores Aberrant Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2-Signaling in Bone Marrow Stromal Cells Obtained from Aged C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Halloran Daniel , Pandit Venu , Chukwuocha Kelechi , Nohe Anja
Published: November 2023

As humans age, aberrancies in several signaling pathways occur. In the aging population, some patients display abnormal bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling. This can lead to osteoporosis (OP), a debilitating bone disorder caused by an imbalance between osteoblasts and osteoclasts. In 2002, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved usage of recombinant human BMP-2 (rhBMP-2) during spinal fusion surgery as it is crucial for bone formation. However, complications have been reported with rhBMP-2 and primary osteoblasts isolated from OP patients are unresponsive to BMP-2. While patient samples are available, previous medical history may alter results. Therefore, C57BL/6 mice, an aging model that displays aberrant BMP-signaling, can be utilized to investigate OP and aging. We show that BMP receptor type Ia (BMPRIa) is upregulated in the bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) of 15-month mice similar to previous data. We show that a conjugation between BMP-2 and Quantum Dots (QDot®s) effectively binds to BMPRIa and can investigate BMP-2 activity. After incubating BMSCs with methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD), BMP-signaling is restored in 15-month mice as shown by western blotting and the von Kossa assay. MβCD may be used to rescue BMPRIa and the BMP-signaling pathway can be utilized by future therapeutics to treat OP.
Socially Responsible Investment Funds—An Analysis Applied to Funds Domiciled in the Portuguese and Spanish Markets
Authors: Carvalho Luísa , Mota Carlos , Ramos Patrícia
Published: November 2023

Socially Responsible Investments, also referred to as ethical or sustainable investments, have experienced rapid global growth in recent years. They represent an investment approach that incorporates social, environmental, and ethical considerations into decision-making processes. Consequently, the significance of SRIs has captured the attention of academics, prompting inquiries into the impact of integrating social criteria on portfolio performance. The primary objective of this work was to conduct a comparative study of the performance between socially responsible and non-socially responsible investment funds, using funds domiciled in Portugal and Spain. Various multi-factor models, including the three-factor model of Fama and French (1992), the four-factor model of Carhart (1997), and the five-factor model of Fama and French (2015), were employed to assess performance. The sample comprised 125 investment funds, with 43 identified as socially responsible and 82 as non-socially responsible. The study's findings indicate that there are no significant differences between socially responsible funds and their conventional counterparts. The majority of funds experience performance alterations during periods of crisis compared to crisis-free periods. Additionally, when comparing non-conditional models with conditional models, an improvement in the explanatory power of the latter is observed. This suggests that the inclusion of the dummy variable enhances the quality of fit for the models.
FIWARE-compatible Smart Data Models for Satellite Imagery and Flood Risk Assessment to Enhance Data Management
Authors: Kouloglou Ioannis-Omiros , Antzoulatos Gerasimos , Vosinakis Georgios , Lombardo Francesca , Abella Alberto , Bakratsas Marios , Moumtzidou Anastasia , Maltezos Evangelos , Gialampoukidis Ilias , Ouzounoglou Eleftherios , Vrochidis Stefanos , Amditis Angelos , Kompatsiaris Ioannis , Ferri Michele
Published: November 2023

The increasing rate of adoption of innovative technological achievements along with the penetration of the Next Generation Internet (NGI) technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the water sector, are leading to a shift to a Water-Smart Society. New challenges have emerged in terms of data interoperability, sharing, and trustworthiness due to the rapidly increasing volume of heterogeneous data generated by multiple technologies. Hence, there is a need for efficient harmonisation and smart modeling of the data to foster advanced AI analytical processes which will lead to efficient water data management. The main objective of this work is to propose two Smart Data Models focusing on the modeling of the Satellite Imaginary data and the Flood Risk Assessment processes. The utilisation of those models reinforces the fusion and homogenisation of diverse information and data facilitating the adoption of AI technologies for flood mapping and monitoring. Furthermore, a holistic framework has been developed and evaluated via qualitative and quantitative performance indicators revealing the efficacy of the proposed models concerning the usage of the models in real cases. The framework is based on the well-known and compatible technologies on NGSI-LD standards which are customised and applicable easily to support the water data management processes effectively.
A no-API approach to massive-parallel architectures
Authors: Frolov Vladimir Alexandrovich , Galaktionov Vladimir Alexandrovich
Published: November 2023

The work proposes an approach to programming parallel architectures without using parallel programming interfaces (APIs) and parallel directives for various numerical simulation and computer graphics applications. The primary goal of this approach is to resolve the fundamental conflict between cross-platform compatibility and hardware acceleration when developing high-performance programs. This conflict is resolved through the automation of the development process: algorithmic descriptions in C++, free from any specific parallel constructs, are automatically translated into the implementation of the same algorithm, and a realization is generated on an existing parallel architecture programming API (C++ translates to SPIR-V for GPUs, and vector instructions for CPUs). Furthermore, if specific hardware acceleration is required, the programmer can replace individual parts of the generated code by substituting kernels and virtual functions in the generated code. Such substitution allows for code regeneration without losing usermade changes tailored to a particular hardware platform. The developed system operates as a white box, allowing the programmer to read and debug the generated code as if it were written manually. This enables us to easily distinguish translator errors from user errors and, moreover, does not create dependencies on the developed system in projects. The generated code can always be manually rewritten when necessary. The application of the developed technology is considered using the example of one of the most complex and inconvenient problems for GPUs — parallel algorithms for constructing trees.
Hubungan Derajat Keparahan Pneumonia dengan Kejadian dan Waktu Terjadinya Sepsis Pada Pneumonia Komunitas di RSUD Dr. Moewardi
Authors: Mar'atusholikhah Maria , Subagio S Yusup , Hastuti Heni
Published: November 2023

Latar Belakang: Pneumonia komunitas merupakan salah satu infeksi yang paling sering terjadi pada seluruh usia baik di negara maju maupun berkembang. Penilaian derajat keparahan pneumonia menggunakan skor PSI merupakan tindakan awal yang tepat untuk menentukan tatalaksana serta komplikasi yang mungkin terjadi. Diantara komplikasi yang mungkin terjadi, sepsis adalah komplikasi yang paling mengancam jiwa dan sering terjadi. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengetahui derajat keparahan pneumonia dengan sepsis dan waktu terjadinya komplikasi sepsis pada pneumonia komunitas di RSUD Dr. Moewardi.

Metode: Merupakan penelitian cross sectional terhadap 80 pasien pneumonia komunitas di RSUD Dr. Moewardi bulan Juli – Desember 2019 serta menggunakan teknik sampling berupa consecutive sampling. Analisis data yang digunakan adalah chi-square test dan survival analysis dengan log-rank test dan kurva Kaplan Meier.

Hasil: Terdapat hubungan yang bermakna (p = 0,002) antara derajat keparahan dengan munculnya komplikasi sepsis pada pneumonia komunitas serta memiliki kekuatan hubungan yang sedang (r = 0,564). Dari uji log-rank didapatkan hubungan yang bermakna juga antara derajat keparahan pneumonia dengan onset terjadinya komplikasi sepsis (p = 0,000). Dan dari kurva kaplan meier dapat dilihat bahwa derajat keparahan tinggi memiliki ketahanan akan sepsis paling rendah, berkebalikan dengan derajat keparahan rendah yang paling tahan akan komplikasi sepsis.

Simpulan: Terdapat hubungan yang bermakna antara derajat keparahan pneumonia dengan munculnya komplikasi sepsis pada pneumonia komunitas. Tingkatan derajat keparahan pneumonia akan berpengaruh terhadap waktu terjadinya sepsis pada pneumonia komunitas.

Kata Kunci: Derajat keparahan, pneumonia komunitas, PSI, sepsis, onset sepsis
Developing Cost-Effective Production in Uzbekistan's Textile Industry
Authors: Inobat Yakhyаeva
Published: November 2023

This article analyzes the textile industry in Uzbekistan and identifies weaknesses such as outdated machinery, lack of qualified personnel, and low levels of specialization in textile production. The research employs scientific study, comparative comparison, statistical data analysis, and economic comparison to propose solutions such as developing training systems for personnel and introducing modern equipment. Results show a reduction in imports and localization of production, leading to the production of more than 250 types of products and a decrease of 93% in imported products. The implications of this research are relevant to the development of Uzbekistan's textile industry and its economic growth.
Highlights:

The textile industry is essential to Uzbekistan's economy.
Localization of production reduces imports and increases production.
Developing personnel and introducing modern equipment are crucial for the industry's growth.

Keywords: Uzbekistan, Textile Industry, Cost-Effective Production, Localization, Personnel Development.
GPT AI Chat: Revolutionizing Education for Civil Engineering Student Performance
Authors: Rizki Muhammad Alvan , Wardana Mahardika Darmawan Kusuma , Hermawan Hendri
Published: November 2023

This literature review investigates the influence of Chat GPT AI on the effectiveness of the civil engineering curriculum and student performance. The study explores the use of Chat GPT AI in education and emphasizes the significance of rubric assessment in evaluating student achievements. The findings reveal that incorporating Chat GPT AI can significantly enhance the learning process by providing prompt and accurate responses to students' queries. However, the study emphasizes the continued importance of human interaction in the assessment process, as rubric assessment remains crucial for evaluating student performance and fostering motivation for better outcomes. The implications underscore the need to align the curriculum with industry standards and leverage technology to enrich the learning experience. These findings hold potential for educators and policymakers seeking to enhance educational quality and produce highly qualified civil engineering graduates.
Highlights:

Chat GPT AI: Improving Efficiency - The study explores the impact of Chat GPT AI in civil engineering education, highlighting its potential to enhance the efficiency of the learning process by providing quick and accurate answers to students' questions.
Importance of Rubric Assessment - The research emphasizes the crucial role of rubric assessment in measuring student performance and motivating them to achieve better results, highlighting its significance alongside the integration of technology.
Adapting Curriculum and Utilizing Technology - The study highlights the importance of adapting the curriculum to meet industry needs and standards, while also leveraging technology, such as Chat GPT AI, to enhance the learning experience and improve the quality of civil engineering education.

Keywords: Chat GPT AI, civil engineering education, curriculum efficiency, student performance, rubric assessment.
Phobia Impacts on Adolescents' Psychological Security: A Psychoanalytic Approach
Authors: Muslima Abdullayeva
Published: November 2023

This research employs a psychoanalytic approach to investigate the effects of phobias on the psychological security of adolescents and the implications for their socio-educational development. The study postulates that phobias result in emotional discomfort and dissatisfaction, thereby weakening individuals' volitional sphere and impairing decision-making capabilities. Data collected were empirically analyzed to discern the balance between self-emotional assessment and psychological protection opportunities during adolescence. The results indicate that phobias, among other effects, reduce environmental tolerance, hinder self-control and personal belief in one's strengths, impede resistance to internal and external influences, decrease self-satisfaction, disrupt communicative skills, and negatively affect the mental state. These impacts collectively lead to a significant drop in the efficiency of the activities a person engages in. Consequently, the study underscores the importance of proper educational interventions from school administrators, teachers, psychologists, and parents to ensure the psychological well-being of adolescents. This approach promises to enhance their resilience and psychological security, enabling their optimal participation in socio-economic activities.
Highlights:

Phobias significantly affect the psychological security of adolescents, impairing their decision-making capabilities and reducing their overall effectiveness in activities.
A psychoanalytic approach provides insights into the balance between self-emotional assessment and psychological protection opportunities during adolescence.
Educational interventions from stakeholders (school administrators, teachers, psychologists, parents) are critical in managing phobias among adolescents, promoting psychological well-being, and fostering socio-economic participation.

Keywords: Phobias, Adolescents, Psychological Security, Psychoanalytic Approach, Emotional Discomfort
Peer Education Improves Coping and Self Efficacy in Facing Bullying in Adolescents
Authors: Sari Ignasia Yunita , Prawesti Indah , Permatasari Pipit Fibrianti
Published: November 2023

This study investigates the influence of peer education on adolescent coping strategies and self-efficacy in addressing bullying behaviors within a junior high school context. Focusing on a group of 31 randomly selected students aged 13-15 years, the research employed a pre-experimental design with pre-test and post-test assessments using the Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (Brief COPE) and the modified General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES). Results revealed a significant improvement in coping skills, with an increase from 23 to 28 students demonstrating effective coping after peer education. Similarly, students classified as having high self-efficacy rose from 20 to 24 following the educational intervention. The findings underscore the positive impact of peer education on adolescent coping and self-efficacy in combating bullying behavior. This study calls for further exploration of factors influencing coping strategies in addressing bullying among adolescents, aiming to enhance intervention approaches and create a supportive school environment.

 

Highlights: 

Significant Improvement: Peer education demonstrates a substantial positive influence on adolescent coping strategies and self-efficacy in dealing with bullying behavior.

Effective Intervention: The study highlights the effectiveness of peer-led education in fostering improved coping mechanisms and self-efficacy among adolescents facing bullying challenges.

Enhancing School Environment: Findings emphasize the need to explore and develop factors that influence coping strategies, contributing to the creation of a more supportive and resilient school environment for adolescents.

Keywords: Peer education, Bullying behavior, Adolescent coping, Self-efficacy, Junior high school.