bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis on the spatiotemporal pattern and driving force of the spatial deviation index of grain and economy in counties in China
Authors: Chen Jia , Zhang Kuan
Published: December 2024

Studying the spatial relationship and driving forces between grain production and economic development in China can assist in the coordinated development of economic growth and grain production in both China and other developing countries. Based on panel data from 2000 to 2019 covering 2018 county-level units in China, this study comprehensively investigated the spatial distribution, spatial differences, dynamic evolution of distribution, and driving factors of China’s county-level spatial deviation index of grain and economy (SDIGE) using methods such as the standard deviation ellipse method, the three-stage nested decomposition of Theil index, kernel density estimation, and geographically weighted regression (GWR) model. The results show that (1) from 2000 to 2019, China’s SDIGE showed a development trend of "up—down—up," and the highest SDIGE was in the northeast region, the lowest in the east region, and the spatial pattern of "high in the northeast—low in the east coast" was increasingly prominent. (2) In terms of spatial difference, the overall difference of SDIGE in China from 2000 to 2019 showed a rising trend of development; The average contribution rate of the regional difference to the overall difference was the lowest, maintained at about 17.82%; The average contribution rate of intra city and inter-county differences to the overall difference is the highest, which is about 34.20%. (3) In terms of the driving force, the level of economic development hurts SDIGE, while population density, industrial structure, fiscal decentralisation, and terrain fluctuation have a positive and negative impact on SDIGE. To alleviate the imbalance between China’s economic development and grain production, it is necessary to implement differentiated policy measures tailored to the specific characteristics of different regions to assist agricultural producers and enhance the stability of grain production.
Digital media use and its effects on digital eye strain and sleep quality in adolescents: A new emerging epidemic?
Authors: Şambel Aykutlu Merve , Aykutlu Hasan Cem , Özveren Mehmet , Garip Rüveyde
Published: December 2024

This study examines the association between excessive digital media use and adverse health outcomes, specifically Digital Eye Strain (DES) and Poor Sleep Quality (PSQ), in adolescents. A cross-sectional survey of 512 participants (aged 11–18 years) assessed DES and PSQ using the Computer Vision Syndrome Questionnaire and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. We found a high prevalence of DES (63.7%) and PSQ (51.2%). Factors associated with DES included using digital media for more than two hours daily, increased post-pandemic digital consumption, shorter breaks, and PSQ. Extended daily digital media use (>4 hours), bedtime usage, older age, female sex, online education and DES were significantly associated with PSQ. These findings highlight the harmful effects of excessive digital media use on adolescent health, especially post-COVID-19. The intricate link between DES and PSQ underscores the need for public health interventions to promote healthy digital habits.
The parkour tic-tac action versus the drop jump as part of complex training within the strength and conditioning programme of highly-trained youth basketball players
Authors: Williams Mark David , Arede Jorge , Griggs Aiden , Moran Jason
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to examine the effects of two different complex training protocols on physical performance in highly-trained youth basketball players. Fourteen adolescent players participated in twice-weekly sessions over eight weeks, following either the Drop Jump protocol (n = 7) or the Tic-tac protocol (n = 7), performing 1–3 sets of 8–9 exercises. Physical performance was assessed before and after the intervention using jumping tests (CMJ, squat, 10–5 hop jumps), change-of-direction speed (5-10-5), sprinting (0–20 meters), and muscular strength (isometric midthigh pull) tests. The intraclass correlation coefficient of within subjects measures was 0.95. Results showed no significant fixed effects for group or time on performance variables (p > 0.05), with greater variance attributed to measurements rather than group differences. The interindividual response to training was highly variable, contingent on the performance outcome. These findings suggest that the parkour-based Tic-tac protocol can be included in strength and conditioning programs for youth basketball players to enhance sport-specific actions. However, to improve physical performance in young team-sport athletes, it is crucial to address the individual needs of each athlete. This includes acknowledging the highly individualised responses to training stimuli.
LCFF-Net: A lightweight cross-scale feature fusion network for tiny target detection in UAV aerial imagery
Authors: Tang Daoze , Tang Shuyun , Fan Zhipeng
Published: December 2024

In the field of UAV aerial image processing, ensuring accurate detection of tiny targets is essential. Current UAV aerial image target detection algorithms face challenges such as low computational demands, high accuracy, and fast detection speeds. To address these issues, we propose an improved, lightweight algorithm: LCFF-Net. First, we propose the LFERELAN module, designed to enhance the extraction of tiny target features and optimize the use of computational resources. Second, a lightweight cross-scale feature pyramid network (LC-FPN) is employed to further enrich feature information, integrate multi-level feature maps, and provide more comprehensive semantic information. Finally, to increase model training speed and achieve greater efficiency, we propose a lightweight, detail-enhanced, shared convolution detection head (LDSCD-Head) to optimize the original detection head. Moreover, we present different scale versions of the LCFF-Net algorithm to suit various deployment environments. Empirical assessments conducted on the VisDrone dataset validate the efficacy of the algorithm proposed. Compared to the baseline-s model, the LCFF-Net-n model outperforms baseline-s by achieving a 2.8% increase in the mAP50 metric and a 3.9% improvement in the mAP50–95 metric, while reducing parameters by 89.7%, FLOPs by 50.5%, and computation delay by 24.7%. Thus, LCFF-Net offers high accuracy and fast detection speeds for tiny target detection in UAV aerial images, providing an effective lightweight solution.
Facilitators and barriers to Tuberculosis case notification among private health facilities in Kampala Capital City, Uganda
Authors: Kembabazi Veronica , Ssentongo Julius , Rutebemberwa Elizeus
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Private Health Facilities (PHFs), Uganda’s main healthcare providers, are indispensable stakeholders in the national tuberculosis (TB) program’s efforts to improve TB case notification and combat the epidemic. However, notification rates remain relatively low in PHFs compared to public providers. In this study, we sought to assess facilitators and barriers to TB case notification among private facilities in Kampala Capital City.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study utilizing a mixed-methods approach to assess facilitators and barriers to TB notification in Kampala Capital City between March and July 2022. For the quantitative strand of the study, we interviewed the TB focal persons at 224 PHFs using a structured questionnaire and for the qualitative, we conducted 14 key informant and in-depth interviews with Ministry of Health-Uganda staff, and TB focal persons at the Kampala Division administration level and at the PHFs. The quantitative analysis involved Modified Poisson regression and the qualitative analysis was carried out using thematic analysis to identify the facilitators and barriers to TB case notification.

Results

Of the 224 PHFs surveyed, the majority, 39.3%(88), were facilities in Nakawa division and 55.4% (124) of the respondents were male, with a mean age of 32.6 years (SD = 8.6). We found that the prevalence of TB case notification was significantly lower for facilities in Kawempe (PR 0.16; 95%CI 0.05,0.47) and Nakawa (PR 0.39, 95%CI 0.21,0.73). Notification was lower among facilities that had no guide for TB screening and diagnosis (PR 0.50; 95%CI 0.25,0.97) and among those facilities where training of other health workers at the facility in TB diagnosis was unknown (PR 0.35; 95%CI 0.13,0.93). Qualitative data showed that the main facilitators of TB case notification were: regular engagements between the NTLP and private health providers and, provision of materials and support to conduct case finding, while the main barriers included TB stigma, lack of resources such as TB diagnostic facilities.

Conclusions

PHFs in Kampala Capital City are receptive to programmatic TB case notification. However, they need regular supervision and engagement activities to ensure that they have updated knowledge, equipment and funding support to carry out TB case notification according to policy.
Quantification of safe operation conditions for large-area platinum-iridium electrodes in neurostimulation application
Authors: Leusmann Elisa , Abkai Ciamak , Tittelbach Michael , Poppendieck Wigand
Published: December 2024

Objective

Using electrochemical characterization methods of stimulation electrodes as well as accelerated stimulation examinations, a safe operating field for stimulation is investigated for particularly very large Pt-Ir macroelectrodes in a Laplace configuration.

Approach

Traditional methods such as Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy, Cyclic Voltammetry and biphasic, charge balanced current pulses were applied on Pt-Ir macroelectrodes in phosphate buffered saline solution to investigate reversible boundaries. These experiments were adapted to approach realistic working conditions.

Main results

Investigating operational conditions close to realistic use cases have shown an anti-correlation between higher scan rates and the occurrence of irreversible reactions. In addition, at higher current pulse amplitudes (>3 mA), the voltage dropping across the phase boundary (Ema and Emc) saturated. The value of the residual voltage depends on the degree of charge balance of the biphasic pulse. Thus, we have been able to detect more dissolved platinum at high residual voltages—objected by mass spectroscopic measurement.

Significance

Residual voltage plays a greater role concerning reversibility in prolonged stimulation and charge imbalance of applied biphasic current pulses. The Ema saturation is suggested as a new marker for the occurrence of irreversible reactions which needs further investigation. Current amplitudes of 1 mA for the considered single electrode configuration did not lead to a capacitive voltage saturation nor a considerable dissolution of platinum ions and is thus considered as a safe operation configuration.
Metafictive picturebooks: Parallels in the verbal and visual
Authors: Dream Daniel , Liangi Ifigeneia
Published: December 2024

Night Kitchen explores architectural representation through a design methodology informed by picturebooks. This article explores how their work utilizes the ‘fourth and fifth dimensions’ of picturebooks – the interplay between words and images and the intertextual references that suggest wider narratives beyond the page. Their incorporation of ephemera from their studio archive is presented as blurring the lines between reality and fiction, in relation to ideas of enthralment and a real-world immersion in fiction. This research examines their work in the context of postmodern publishing techniques and the contemporary multimodal world, in relation to postmodern picturebook theory, highlighting the potential of an integration of the format with archival practices to inform architectural research that explores temporality and narrative.
Rank Xerox, un eslabón perdido del cyberpunk
Authors: Sallés Diego Lluís
Published: December 2024

En el año 1978 Stefano Tamburini y Andrea Pazienza crearon un relato cyberpunk que, aunque más punk que cyber, podría ser considerado el preámbulo de algunas obras consideradas fundacionales del género, como lo fueron Blade Runner de Ridley Scott (1982) o posteriormente el Neuromante de William Gibson (1984). Probablemente también inspirado en la novela de Philip K. Dick ¿Sueñan los androides con ovejas eléctricas? (1968), desde la periferia cultural y underground, propia del cómic de finales de los años setenta, Tamburini y Pazienzia crearon Rank Xerox, un androide desbocado en una Roma ultratecnificada, totalitaria y extrema, probablemente el ancestro perdido de Roy Batty, el replicante modelo Nexus-6, el brillante antagonista de Rick Deckard en Blade Runner. Utilizando una mirada casi arqueológica, desenterraremos al androide romano, para poner luz sobre un periodo olvidado de la cultura underground europea.
Secuestros, castigos y violencia. Situaciones del espectador en el arte participativo
Authors: Portilla Prado Sheila
Published: December 2024

El arte participativo está conformado por todas aquellas obras que necesitan de las personas receptoras para la compleción del proyecto artístico. Si pensamos en este tipo de obras, nos vienen a la mente conceptos como diversión, interacción, entretenimiento… Pero no siempre es así. En el presente artículo se ha llevado a cabo un pequeño estudio de una serie de obras que juegan con el espectador, llevándolo a vivir situaciones límite, haciéndolo reflexionar sobre las fronteras del arte.
Philippe Rogier (c.1560-1596). Domine Dominus noster. Motete a 12
Authors: Rincón Soterraña Aguirre
Published: December 2024

El estudio se centra en el motete policoral a 12 voces “Domine, Dominus noster” de Philippe Rogier (Arras?, ca. 1560-Madrid, 1596), el último maestro de capilla de Felipe II. Obra que se suponía perdida aunque identificada en el “Index” de João IV. Esta investigación contextualiza la composición dentro del repertorio latino y policoral del maestro; estudia la fuente que lo contiene para comprender el valor y el uso que pudo darse a la pieza en el lugar donde se conserva, el Archivo de Música de la Catedral de Valladolid y, finalmente, propone una edición crítica de la misma.
Molecular characterization of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli isolates from broiler farms in Northern Palestinian territories
Authors: Adwan Ghaleb , Abuseir Sameh , Omar Ghadeer , Albzour Mahmoud
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim: Colibacillosis is caused by avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC), which results in significant losses for the poultry sector. It has zoonotic potential and acts as a source of antibiotic resistance and virulence genes for other E. coli. This study aimed to assess phylogenetic groups, virulence factors, and resistance phenotypes of APEC strains isolated from broiler farms in Northern Palestine.

Materials and Methods: A total of 65 APEC isolates were recovered from diseased chickens with typical colibacillosis symptoms from broiler farms located in the northern region of Palestine from May to July 2024. Strains were identified using classical and molecular techniques. Antibiotic resistance was detected using the disk diffusion method. Phylotyping and virulence genotyping of the APEC isolates were performed using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results: This study showed a high detection rate of APEC strains (100%) in chickens. The most APEC strains, 56/65 (86.2%), belonged to group D. Other strains were assigned to groups B2 (5/65, 7.7%), B1 (3/65, 4.6%), and A (1/65, 1.5%). Antibiotic resistance ranged from 27.7% for Polymyxin E (colistin) to 100% for Amoxicillin. Polymyxin E (colistin) and fosfomycin are the most effective drugs. The most common virulence gene was iroN, which was detected in 61 isolates (93.8%). The APEC strains in Palestine exhibit a wide variety of resistance patterns and genetic variations.

Conclusion: Controlling APEC infections is essential for public health, especially when APEC isolates can pass on resistance and virulence genes to dangerous bacteria such as E. coli that are particular to humans. It is essential to understand APEC pathogenesis, antimicrobial therapy, and the development of measures to control colibacillosis.

Keywords: antibiotic resistance, avian pathogenic Escherichia coli, colibacillosis, Palestinian territories, phylogenetic group, virulence factors.
Investigation into the causes of mortality in cetaceans and sirenian populations in the Andaman Sea, Thailand: A retrospective analysis spanning 2018–2023
Authors: Daochai Chayanis , Sornying Peerapon , Keawchana Narissara , Manmoo Sareepah , Khumraksa Piyarat , Kaewmong Patchaporn , Ninwat Santi , Upanoi Tipamat , Sukkarun Pimwarang , Suyapoh Watcharapol
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim: Cetaceans and sirenians are endangered marine mammals that are threatened by stranding and mortality. In Thailand’s Andaman Sea, limited data exist on the causes and patterns of these events. This retrospective study investigated the characterization and underlying causes of cetacean and sirenian mortality events in the Andaman Sea from 2018 to 2023 using information from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, Thailand.

Materials and Methods: Data on 363 stranded marine mammals, including both live and dead strandings, species types, carcass condition, and necropsy findings and diagnoses, were gathered and analyzed to classify and determine the main factors contributing to mortality, encompassing both direct human-related and non-direct human-related causes.

Results: From 2018 to 2023, 231 cetaceans and 132 sirenians were documented, representing six families and 19 species. Of these animals, 18.18% (66/363) were stranded alive and 81.81% (297/363) were found dead. The most common species were dugong (Dugong dugon) and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis). Detailed postmortem analyses of 107 specimens showed that 17.76% (19/107) of deaths were anthropogenic, affecting 8 sirenians and 11 cetaceans. The majority of deaths were non-anthropogenic, involving 34 sirenians and 54 cetaceans. In addition, 223 stranded animals could not be fully assessed due to carcass condition.

Conclusion: A high cetacean and sirenian mortality rate in the Andaman Sea can be attributed to non-anthropogenic factors. The dugong and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin were the most frequently encountered species. This report enhances our understanding of marine mammal mortality in Thailand and underscores the need for improved health management and diagnostic responses.

Keywords: dolphin, dugong, marine mammal, necropsy, stranding whale.
INFLUÊNCIA DO BIOCARVÃO DE FIBRA DE COCO NOS PARÂMETROS FÍSICO-QUÍMICOS, TEXTURA E LIMITES DE CONSISTÊNCIA DE LATOSSOLO VERMELHO-AMARELO DE GUARATINGUETÁ (SÃO PAULO, BRASIL)
Authors: Santos Bezerra Leticia , Saraiva Tavares Amanda , Consiglio Kasemodel Mariana
Published: December 2024

A maioria dos solos brasileiros tem severas limitações hídricas para o crescimento das culturas e, portanto, podem se beneficiar de correções orgânicas. Este estudo avaliou o uso de biocarvão de fibra de coco (BFC) como material para melhoramento geotécnico de solo arenoso. Para isso, foram utilizadas amostras de latossolo vermelho-amarelo com 10% de BFC comercial. As amostras foram submetidas a ensaios de pH, condutividade elétrica (CE), granulometria, limite de plasticidade (LP) e limite de liquidez (LL). Nas análises de pH e CE foi observado que o solo possui característica ácida (pH = 4,8), ΔpH médio de -0,6 e CE de 41,7 µS cm-1. Ao adicionar o BFC, houve um aumento nos valores de pH (média de 6,3 e ΔpH -1,3), CE (80,7 µS cm-1), LP (3.1 a 3.3% solo nat e 3.4 a 4.1% solo bio) LL (13,9 a 17,2% solo nat e 17.2 a 19.6% solo bio). O aumento do valores de LL e LP implica na melhoria da absorção de água pelo solo, minimizando sua degradação. Conclui-se que o BFC é um material alternativo que pode ser empregado para a melhoria de solos, no entanto, as alterações físico-químicas devem ser mais investigadas.
Integrated Information Assessment Using Geometric Algebra
Authors: Svítek Miroslav
Published: December 2024

The goal of the paper is to introduce a universal approach for calculating integrated information assessment (IIA) in complex systems by utilizing the geometric product from geometric algebra (GA). Traditional models of consciousness try to explain how neural networks and cognitive processes give rise to a unified conscious experience. Quantum mechanics (QM) could provide a framework for understanding this integration by suggesting that conscious experience arises from entangled states across different system parts. Thanks to the high redundancy of neural networks, it is possible to realize different variants of cognitive processes in parallel and switch between them as needed. This opens up the possibility of hypothetically creating non-separable (not necessarily non-local) entangled models without requiring a quantum environment. The described IIA algorithm is derived from the assessment of entanglement in QM systems using GA. The results are shown on a set of illustrative examples.
“I'm hurt,” “Stay away,” “I do not belong”: Understanding Church Hurt, Unforgiveness, and Religious Disaffiliation
Authors: Ambroziak Aleksandra , Toussaint Loren , Webb Jon R.
Published: December 2024

Church hurt may be defined as a negative social interaction or doctrinal difference that takes place between co-religious individuals or within religious communities, leading to interpersonal religious and spiritual struggle. This type of religious and spiritual struggle is theorized to affect the belonging dimension of religiosity. This study sought to explore the relationship between church hurt experiences, unforgiveness motivations, and affiliation to religion. Measures of church hurt, unforgiveness, and disaffiliation were administered to samples recruited from a small, midwestern, Christian college (N = 33); a large, southern, secular university (N = 118); and a small, northeastern, Christian Catholic group (N = 12). Results showed that those who were disaffiliated from Christianity had higher church hurt and unforgiveness experiences than their affiliated counterparts. Mediation analysis revealed that church hurt was associated with disaffiliation, and this association was mediated by higher avoidance but not higher revenge or lower benevolence. To summarize, a consequence of being hurt at church is the motivation to create distance between oneself and the transgressor, in this case, the religious individual or community, and this is also associated with disaffiliation. Importantly, avoidance is the motive that in part explains the association between church hurt and disaffiliation. Hurt individuals leave churches because they wish to avoid the community, not because they desire revenge or have lost a benevolent attitude toward the group. These results confirm the predictions of theoretical models on disaffiliation.
A Psychoanalytic Heuristic for Understanding Personality in Catholic Religious
Authors: Villa Karen Klein , Kleinsorge Shasha
Published: December 2024

In response to the Church's call to incorporate psychological sciences in assessing and guiding religious candidates, we present a psychoanalytic framework for understanding personality structure, as well as where and why to draw the cutoff for religious vocation suitability. First, we consider the level of personality organization, which refers to the severity of disturbance from healthy/neurotic to borderline to psychotic. Second, we outline six domains of functioning, including identity, object relations, defenses, aggression, moral functioning, and reality testing/reflective capacities, which are important in any substantive assessment of personality. We argue that individuals at the borderline level of personality functioning, owing to early relational deprivations, are not suitable for religious life because they do not have a consistently good, coherent, and realistic sense of self, which compromises essential domains of functioning, including their capacity for mature interpersonal relationships.
REPRESENTAÇÕES ACERCA DA ESCOLA DE ENSINO MÉDIO: UM ESTUDO COM ALUNOS E PROFESSORES DE FORMOSA-GO
Authors: BEZERRA RAFAEL GONÇALVES , SUESS RODRIGO CAPELLE
Published: December 2024

O artigo relata os resultados de pesquisa que teve por objetivo estudar as representações que estudantes e professores do ensino médio desenvolvem acerca da escola. Constatou-se que os jovens atribuem à escola um papel importante como um meio de realizar seus projetos de vida e esperam, após o término do ensino médio, ingressar no mercado de trabalho e na educação superior. Por outro lado, a maioria dos docentes acredita que poucos de seus alunos seguirão os estudos no ensino superior. Para os professores, os jovens vão à escola por obrigação, passatempo, socialização, capacitação profissional e para que suas famílias não deixem de receber programas sociais do governo. Ao contrastarmos as visões dos professores e alunos pesquisados, notamos que aqueles estão incrédulos e que estes depositam na escola as esperanças de realizar os seus sonhos e conseguir um melhor status na sociedade.
Educazione e politica: il massimo dell autorità con il minimo del potere
Authors: Piussi Anna Maria
Published: December 2024

Questo articolo affronta un interrogativo del nostro tempo: quanto potere ha l’educazione, in un mondo in cui tutto sembra messo sottosopra – il politico (la macchina politica), le fonti di legittimazione, i sistemi simbolici e valoriali, le forme del legame sociale, i linguaggi, i rapporti tra culture? un mondo in cui l’istruzione e la formazione stanno diventando sempre più beni privatizzati funzionali al sistema neoliberista? Propongo una nuova alleanza tra educazione e politica, sottraendo entrambe ai significati e alle pratiche oggi dominanti centrati sul potere, e ridefinendole nell’orizzonte che ad esse compete, quello dell’autorità. Un’autorità riguadagnata alle sue radici femminili dalla politica e dal pensiero della differenza sessuale sviluppati soprattutto in Italia, Spagna e Francia, che ci orienta nel mondo secondo il criterio de “il massimo dell’autorità con il minimo del potere”. Allora la linea mobile del legame tra educazione e potere, come tra politica e potere, può spostarsi verso l’autorità, intesa come “capacità di accrescere” e dare nuove possibilità al mondo comune e alla singolarità umana, perché questa linea passa attraverso di noi in prima persona in relazione con altre e altri, e proprio a queste condizioni abbiamo la possibilità di produrre effetti nella realtà di cui siamo parte, trasformando i contesti e le relazioni per rigenerare e arricchire la vita pubblica.
A Galinha Pintadinha e o reino do Galo Carijó: dinâmicas androcêntricas na educação da infância
Authors: Anadon Simone , Caetano Marcio , Rangel Mary
Published: December 2024

A partir da premissa de que a mídia se configura como uma das estratégias de governamento, este artigo interroga o artefato cultural “Guia da Primeira Infância – conheça os segredos da Galinha Pintadinha para cuidar bem do seu filho nos primeiros seis anos de vida”. A metodologia utilizada na formulação deste estudo caracteriza-se como um ensaio teórico, no qual se busca problematizar, a partir das contribuições foucaultianas no campo do discurso e dos regimes de verdade, as atribuições assumidas pelas personagens no artefato cultural e, com isso, os modos educativos de produção e regulação da família em textos voltados ao público infantil. No cotidiano das experiências narradas no material, é possível observar a massificação de arranjos familiares que reiteram a lógica heterocentrada e androcêntrica de condução familiar.
Signos e interpretação: entre aprendizagens e criações
Authors: E. L. Bello Samuel , Zordan Paola , Marques Diego
Published: December 2024

De forma sucinta, este artigo busca mapear alguns elementos que compõem a noção de signo tendo em vista principalmente o seu poder de produzir conhecimento. Diferentes definições de signo, a partir de breves revisões de Saussure, Morris, Pierce, Hjelmslev, Bakhtin, são apresentadas a fim de direcionar o estudo para a questão da produção de conhecimento a partir dos signos, processo esse que Deleuze entenderá como aprendizagem. Esse breve estudo sobre as principais classificações de signos não é meramente descritivo, ele atenta para a importância das dinâmicas que tais tipologias impõem, tanto interna como externamente. Ao se problematizar relação do signo com sua interpretação, processo conhecido em alguns momentos como semiose, significação e, em outros, como pragmática, trazemos a perspectiva da diferença, na qual interpretar implica compor os elementos sígnicos numa criação.
Enfoques e tendências da produção científica sobre o ensino fundamental na Região Sul1
Authors: Schneider Marilda Pasqual
Published: December 2024

O trabalho tem como propósito examinar enfoques e tendências da produção do conhecimento sobre o Ensino Fundamental (EF), na Região Sul do Brasil, tomando como base empírica os trabalhos apresentados nos Seminários da AnpedSul no período compreendido entre os anos de 1998 a 2012. Aponta temas priorizados, perspectivas anunciadas e enfrentamentos necessários dado o lugar ocupado por esse segmento desde a promulgação da atual LDB, que estabeleceu o EF como etapa obrigatória, gratuita e destinada à formação básica do cidadão. À luz das análises empreendidas, destaca alcances e limites da produção científica em torno do tema e realça enfrentamentos necessários em face do surgimento de novos focos temáticos associados especialmente à melhoria da qualidade da educação básica no Brasil.
Evaluation of angiomyolipoma by ultrasound in correlation with computed tomography findings in Erbil province
Authors: Saleh Omar , Rasheed Ayad
Published: December 2024

Background and objective: The benign renal mesenchymal tumor, angiomyolipoma (AML), consists of smooth muscle, fat and blood vessels, representing (1–3%) of the solid renal tumors. The most common type of benign renal tumors is accounting about (0.3–3%) of all kidney masses. AMLs are asymptomatic in general and found incidentally via routine imaging procedures and are seldom symptomatic. This study aimed to evaluate incidental findings of Angiomyolipoma by ultrasound in relation with CT findings in Erbil province.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Rizgary Teaching hospital from March 2021 to April 2022. Review of ultrasound reports and CT scans data were collected from 61 patients with renal masses who attended to the public and private hospitals in Erbil province during the study period. The patients were older than 25 years in age.

Results: The results showed that female of middle age were predominant among AML patients in the study. By using CT technique, 92.6% of females scored as hypoattenuating AML, and 88.5% of the AMLs were hyperdense or hyperattenuating by using CT technique. The results also revealed that 93.4% of AML cases were hyperechoic by Ultrasound technique, while 6.6% of the fat-poor were hyperechoic by using the Ultrasound technique.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that female of middle age were predominant among AML patients, and CT technique is more accurate and sensitive in the diagnosis of AML cases.
The accuracy of trans cerebellar diameter in assessing gestational age in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy
Authors: Mahmood Nasik , Khorsheed Kataion , Hamasaleh Alaa
Published: December 2024

Background and objective: Accurate estimation of the fetal gestational age is the cornerstone for the management of all pregnancies. This study aims to assess the accuracy of Trans cerebellar diameter in comparison with the other previously established fetal biometric parameters in the second and third trimesters.

Methods: This is a prospective study conducted on 237 pregnant women who attended Erbil Maternity Teaching Hospital and a private clinic from January 2021 to July 2022.

The ultrasound of selected cases was performed on GE Voluson E6 and E8 ultrasound machines with a 3.5 MHz probe sector transducer.

Trans cerebellar diameter measurement was obtained by placing the electronic calibers from the outer portion of the proximal end of the cerebellum to the inner portion of the distal margin. Biparietal diameter, femoral length, head circumference, and abdominal circumference were measured using the standard technique by Hadlock tables. Data were tabulated and all the statistical analyses were done using SPSS version 26.

Results: The mean trans cerebellar diameter during different gestational ages was 19.95 (±1.2) mm between 18-22 weeks gestation, 25.45 (±1.7) mm between 23-28 weeks gestation, 29.79 (±1.15) mm between 29-32 weeks gestation, 34.29 (± 1.13) mm between 33-36 weeks gestation and 36.79 (±1.7) mm above 37 weeks gestation respectively. Differences between the estimated gestational age and the gestational age assessed by trans cerebellar diameter ranged from -7 to 6 days irrespective of the gestational age.

Conclusion: Even in the third trimester trans cerebellar diameter is a fairly accurate and better predictor of gestational age in comparison to other ultrasound parameters such as biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femoral length.
Clinical and histopathological characteristics of prostate cancer in Erbil city/ Iraq
Authors: Mola ahmed Narin , Sulaiman Luqman
Published: December 2024

Background and objective: Prostate cancer is the third most common cancer in men in Iraq. We aimed to study the epidemiology, clinical and histopathological characteristics of prostate cancer in Erbil city.

Methods: The research was performed retrospectively at Nanakali Teaching Hospital and the Oncology Department of Rizgary Teaching Hospital in Erbil city, covering the period from 2016 to 2021. Comprising 212 people diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Results: The median age of the patients was 71 years. The proportion of patients who present with urinary tract symptoms, no symptoms and other were 81.6%, 4.7% and 13.7% respectively. Two hundred eight prostate cancer patients with available histopathological data had adenocarcinoma and two patients had neuroendocrine carcinoma and one patient had urothelial cancer. The proportion of patients with high grade tumor, intermediate and low grade were 61%, 29% and 10% respectively. While, the percentage of patients with TPSA level > 20 ng/ml, TPSA >100 ng/ml were 80% and 35% respectively. Furthermore, the proportion of patients with stage IV, III, II and I were 62.7%, 17.9%, 17.9% and 1.4% respectively. And, the percentage of high-risk groups, intermediate and low risk were 90.1%, 8% and 1.9% respectively. After correlation of TPSA with stage of disease and grade of tumor there was statistically positive correlation between them.

Conclusion: Patients diagnosed with prostate cancer in our region are more likely to belong to the high-risk category, exhibiting aggressive disease and advanced stage at the time of diagnosis. Nevertheless, they exhibit comparable demography and epidemiology as shown in the recent international literature about the global population and the Middle East region.
Obesity in women of reproductive age and its relation to polycystic ovarian syndrome and sub-fertility
Authors: Ali Parween , Alsakkal Ghada
Published: December 2024

Background and objective: The Sub-fecundity and infertility are both enhanced by obesity. Regardless of the method of conception, obese women have less favourable reproductive results, and poorer fertility prognosis. One of the main reasons for infertility is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The purpose of this study is to determine how obesity and polycystic ovarian syndrome affect fertility in women of reproductive age.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed at a maternity teaching hospital in Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. It comprises 400 women: 200 with a BMI of 30 or above and 200 with a BMI between 18 and 24. From January 1, 2021, until December 31, 2021.

Results: The average age of the enrolled women was 29.9 years. The majority (81.5%) were under 30 years of age, and (70.6%) were classified as overweight. In the obese group, 55% of women had never experienced pregnancy. A greater percentage of the obese group had no history of miscarriage in comparison to the non-obese group. The obese group exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of hirsutism (59%) compared to the non-obese group (39.5%). Infertility rates varied from 84% in the obese group to 38.5% in the non-obese group. In contrast to 44.5% of non obese women, the ultrasonographic findings indicated that 60% of obese women displayed PCOS morphology.

Conclusion: Obesity has effect on the occurrence of sub-fertility and polycystic ovary syndrome at all reproductive ages.
La ortodoxa excentricidad de Daniel Sada: campo literario, recepción y las ansiedades de la crítica, 1979–1989
Authors: Gutiérrez Negrón Sergio
Published: December 2024

Este artículo ofrece un análisis crítico de la manera en la que Daniel Sada (1953–2011) se posicionó en el campo literario mexicano y cómo navegó sus presiones durante lo que podría llamarse su periodo emergente (1979–89). Mediante un estudio de la crítica literaria producida en la época, la recepción de la obra de Sada, la hemerografía del momento y la historia editorial de sus primeros libros, el ensayo ofrece una narración y reconstrucción del campo literario de los años ochenta, y explora las contingencias y transformaciones de la literatura mexicana de fin del siglo XX.
Surface properties and metal ions leaching behaviors of nickel-titanium orthodontic archwires modified by oxidation
Authors:   Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National I-Lan University, ILan 260, Taiwan, Chang S. H. , Lin J. X. ,   Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National I-Lan University, ILan 260, Taiwan, Chiang C. H. ,   Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National I-Lan University, ILan 260, Taiwan
Published: December 2024

This study examined the metal ions released from nickel-titanium (TiNi) orthodontic
archwires, which had been surface-modified by oxidation at various temperatures. The Ni
ion was more easily leached from the TiNi orthodontic archwires than Ti ion, because the
Ti atoms were readily to form passive TiO2 films on the surface. TiNi orthodontic archwires
should be heat-treated at an appropriate temperature, such as 300 and 400 °C, to possess a
smooth and intact TiO2 film on the surface, better corrosion-resistance properties, and fewer
selectively leached Ni ions to ensure the long-term safety of the implantation. TiNi
orthodontic archwires heat-treated at a higher temperature, such as 500 °C, may lead to poor
corrosion-resistance properties and risk the increase of selectively leached Ni ions.
Fabrication of superhydrophobic coating with enhanced stability and anti-icing performance
Authors:   School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, China, Fang X. Z , Shen J. W. ,   School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, China, Feng Z. W. ,   School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, China, Tang Z. Q. ,   School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, China
Published: December 2024

Ice accretion on outdoor equipment detrimentally affect their performance and increase the
maintenance cost. Significant advancements have been made in the development of
superhydrophobic coatings for anti-icing, however, the intricate manufacturing procedures
and limited stability remain primary challenges that hinder their widespread use in practical
application. In this context, a durable superhydrophobic coating has been fabricated using a
simple spraying technique, achieving a contact angle of 166.7±1.4° and a roll-off angle of
0.6±0.2°. The coating exhibits excellent stability with contact angle maintained above 160°
after undergoing various examinations. Meantime, the superhydrophobic coating possesses
an enhanced anti-icing property with the time to ice formation prolonged to 42.8 min. This
stable superhydrophobic coating, suitable for various outdoor uses, is hoped to contribute to
the development of eco-friendly anti-icing coatings.
Synthesis of HMDSO/TiO2 composite on quartz crystal microbalance for enhanced volatile organic compounds gas sensing properties
Authors:   Laboratory of Study of Electronic Materials for Medical Applications (LEMEAMED), University of Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine 25000, Algeria, Grine L. , Bellel A. ,   Laboratory of Study of Electronic Materials for Medical Applications (LEMEAMED), University of Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine 25000, Algeria, Dallah K. ,   Laboratory of Study of Electronic Materials for Medical Applications (LEMEAMED), University of Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine 25000, Algeria, Sahli S. ,   Laboratory of Microsystems and Instrumentations (LMI), University of Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine 25000, Algeria
Published: December 2024

In this study, HMDSO/TiO2 nanocomposite was synthesized on a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) transducer by atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) for the detection of
volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)
analysis revealed the presence of Ti-O-Ti bond around 580 cm-1
, indicating the growth of
TiO2 film on the HMDSO support layer. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the
presence of rutile and anatase phases of TiO2, demonstrating that the APPJ method can
produce crystalline films in a single process without post-thermal annealing. Atomic force
microscopy (AFM) imaging showed the growth of rougher surface QCM coating, leading
to an increased specific surface area and more absorption sites. Water contact angle
(WCA) measurements showed that the hydrophilic QCM surface was transformed into super-hydrophobic one after coating with the HMDSO/TiO2 hybrid film. Compared to single
layer VOCs sensors, the HMDSO/TiO2 heterostructure revealed good sensitivity, low response and recovery times across the explored VOC concentration range.
Content marketing: Gender and age differences in generation Z
Authors: Matic Sosic Matea
Published: December 2024

There is a growing number of users who expect personalised information and experiences that meet their personal needs and preferences. Therefore, companies emphasise that creating valuable content through digital channels is a vital element for the success and reputation of companies which also creates greater value for their users. The objective of this research is to determine the differences between the age and gender of Generation Z in relation to attitudes towards content posted on Instagram. The sample contained of 311 Generation Z social media users who were surveyed between April and June 2024. Non-parametric statistical methods such as the Mann Whitney U-test and the Kruskal-Wallis H-test were used in this study. The results show that there are statistical differences between age and attitude towards Instagram content. The research results show that there are partial differences between gender and users' activities on Instagram, but not in their intention to follow content in the future. There are also statistical differences between time spent on Instagram and attitude towards Instagram content. The results of this study contribute to the theoretical background of the literature on social media content marketing and also provide an empirical contribution for companies creating customized social media content, especially on Instagram, for Generation Z.
Evaluation of trade performance dynamics in Serbia using ARAT and Rough MABAC methods
Authors: Lukić Radojko
Published: December 2024

Recently, there has been an increasing amount of literature dedicated to the importance and specifics of applying multi-criteria decision-making methods in trade. These methods, given that they are based on a mathematical approach, provide realistic results of the analysis of the treated problem. Based on that, this study investigates the dynamics of trade performance in Serbia based on the ARAT (Interval and Iterative Preference/Priority Scale), and the Rough MABAC (Multi-Attributive Border Approximation Area Comparison) method. The results of the study show that in 2023, the best performance of trade in Serbia was achieved. The worst performance of trade in Serbia was achieved in 2018. The ranking of trade performance in Serbia is as follows: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019 and 2018. The performance of trade in Serbia has continuously improved. Effective management of human resources, investments, capital, sales, and profit contributed to this. Certainly, the positive influence of other relevant factors (foreign direct investments, new business models - multichannel sales: store and electronic, private brand, sale of organic products, the concept of sustainable development - economic, social, and environmental dimensions, the idea of social responsibility) must not be neglected. , digitization of the entire business, etc.). To achieve the target profit in Serbian trade, adequate adaptation to dynamic complex changes in the business environment and macroeconomic trends (geopolitical situation, energy crisis, inflation, exchange rate, interest rates, etc.) is important. In all this, digitizing the entire trade business plays a significant role.
Incidencia del Absentismo Escolar en la Comunidad Valenciana. Curso 2021-2022
Authors: Cruz Orozco José Ignacio , Perales Montolío María Jesús , Horcas López Vicent , Sancho-Álvarez Carlos
Published: December 2024

La obligatoriedad de la enseñanza básica en España se fundamenta en un destacado consenso político que incluye un mandato constitucional. Sin embargo, el absentismo escolar está presente en bastantes centros educativos y, a pesar de que supone el incumplimiento de un derecho fundamental, concita escasa atención. Esta investigación describe por primera vez la incidencia del absentismo en la Comunidad Valenciana durante el curso 2021-2022, partiendo de los datos recogidos en la plataforma ITACA de la administración educativa. En concreto, analiza las presencias y ausencias de más de 560.000 estudiantes estructuradas en 113.237 registros correspondientes a cada curso de las etapas mencionadas. Los resultados indican que el 4,56% del alumnado es absentista, el 2,63% con más de 25% de ausencias y el resto entre 15% y 25%. También destaca la identificación de un núcleo con arraigadas conductas absentistas y la fuerte presencia de esas conductas en la formación profesional básica, donde afecta al 32% del alumnado, 4,5 veces más que en secundaria obligatoria y 14 más que en primaria. Sin duda se trata de un serio desafío que requiere mayor atención, análisis más detallados e intervenciones más eficaces.
La Formación del Profesorado para Ejercer la Dirección de Centros Educativos
Authors: Tesouro Cid Montserrat , Puiggalí Allepuz Joan
Published: December 2024

En la formación de los/las directores/as escolares es importante saber cuándo, cómo, de qué tipo debe ser la formación y quién la debe impartir. Se utiliza una metodología cuantitativa no experimental para conocer la opinión de los profesionales de la educación sobre la formación de directivos/as. Se elaboró un cuestionario de opinión ad hoc que fue contestado por una muestra de 530 profesionales de la educación de España.  Los resultados muestran que se da tanta importancia a la formación previa al acceso al cargo como a la formación permanente. Las modalidades formativas más consideradas son las conferencias o cursos impartidos por expertos y las mentorías o coaching. Las conferencias o cursos son más aceptados por la Administración Educativa y por los/las directores/as mientras que la mentoría o coaching es la modalidad más escogida por los que no tienen experiencia en el cargo. Las herramientas más valoradas son el análisis de casos y la resolución de problemas y los profesionales más adecuados para impartir la formación son los/las directores/as en ejercicio. Se concluye que la mejora de la formación debería tener un carácter más práctico y que es importante el factor experiencia que pueden aportar los/las directores/as en ejercicio. También se observa la importancia de la mentoría o coaching para aquellos que no han ejercido o para los directores noveles.