bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Drought Stress on Vegetative Growth and Grain Filling Stages: Morphological Traits and Yield Components of Six New Corn Hybrids in Iran
Authors: Barzegari Ali , Taghian Elaheh
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of drought stress on various agronomic traits of corn hybrids, highlighting the physiological responses and yield performance under water-limited conditions. Conducted in Shush County, Iran, the experiment utilized a split-plot design with four replications. The primary factors included three irrigation levels: normal irrigation, drought stress from emergence to tassel appearance, and drought stress from the end of pollination to physiological maturity. The secondary factors were seven corn hybrids, including six new hybrids and the control variety, SC704. The results revealed that drought stress, particularly during the vegetative growth period, significantly reduced the growth duration, leaf area index, biological yield, and grain yield. One of the hybrids, labeled as H4 demonstrated the highest resilience, maintaining superior biological yield, grain yield, and leaf area under drought conditions. These findings underscore the importance of selecting drought-tolerant hybrids for cultivation in regions prone to water scarcity. Future research should incorporate additional abiotic stresses to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the corn hybrids’ performance in diverse environmental conditions.
Tunable orbital Chern insulating states in crystalline Bernal-tetralayer graphene
Authors: Cho Sungjae , Lee Taehun , Kim Jinkyu , Feng Xilin , Sun Zi-Ting , Jin Taehyuk , Sung Kyunghwan , Seo Ganghyeok , Goo Dongbeom , Lee Seok , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Law Kam Tuen
Published: February 2025

Multilayer graphene systems, with their rich interplay of valley and layer degrees of freedom and associated order parmeters, host a variety of topological phenomena. Recent studies have induced moiré superlattices and spin-orbit proximity effects in multilayer graphene to realize quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) effects driven by orbital ferromagnetism. Here, we report the observation of a Hall resistance quantized at ±h/6e², which persists down to 20 mT, with an anomalous Hall effect in Bernal-stacked tetralayer graphene near charge neutrality. Experimental evidence of magnetic field, electric field and carrier density tunability of a ferromagnetic order provides convincing evidence for a Chern insulating state with a Chern number of 6. A theory reveals that this arises from an electric-field-driven topological phase transition enabled by a layer antiferro-valleytric order that couples the valley and layer degrees of freedom. Our findings uncover previously unrecognized layer-valley antiferroic orders and their resulting highly tunable orbital Chern insulating states in the single crystalline material, achieved without moiré engineering or spin-orbit coupling.
The effect of lavender essential oil for delirium in elderly ICU patients: Study protocol for a double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Tan Judan , Ren Dongsheng , Zhou Yuling , Luo Zhenchun
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Elderly critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) are at risk of delirium, which is primarily characterized by acute consciousness impairment and perceptual, cognitive, and memory impairment, resulting in excess death, care expenditures, and acquired dementia, which severely affect the prognosis of critically ill patients. However, there are currently no effective pharmacological strategies for preventing delirium. Inhalation aromatherapy has been proven to benefits the sleep disorder, anxiety or depression and lavender oil is one of the most used essential oils. Therefore, we hypothesized that the use of lavender would reduce the prevalence rate and shorten the duration of delirium in ICU patients.
Methods and analysis: This trial was designed to be a randomized, single-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 68 elderly patients from ICU will be randomly allocated at a 1:1 ratio to the intervention group or the control group. Both groups will receive the ABCDEF (A2F) bundle strategy recommended by guidelines, a multi-component approach including pain and delirium management, breathing trial practice, family engagement and so on, to prevent delirium. The intervention group will additionally receive aromatherapy lasting for five days. The primary endpoints are the prevalence of delirium. Secondary outcomes include the severity and duration of delirium, the length of ICU stay, the duration of physical restraint, the duration of analgesic and sedative medication and the 28-day mortality rate. We will use the CAM-ICU to measure the prevalence of delirium and analyses of variance (ANOVAs) or repeated-measures ANOVAs and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests to analyze the observation results.
Discussion: The incidence of delirium in the ICU is high, which significantly impacts the short-term therapeutic effects and long-term quality of life for critically ill patients. This study we proposed will be a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to assess the efficacy of aromatherapy in preventing delirium and the results of this study will provide deeper insights into the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for delirium patients. If the experimental results are promising, further research can be conducted on the specific impact pathways and mechanisms of this treatment among elderly patients with delirium.
Ethics and dissemination: Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine hospital (Ethical Review Number:2023-ky-47). The results of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. The study sponsor does not have any role in study-related activities or in the final publication of the study.
Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry. Registration Number:ChiCTR2400088130. Registration Date:2024-8-12.
Application of ¹H NMR-based metabolomics in childhood leukemia. A preliminary study.
Authors: Serrafi Agata , Pupek Małgorzata , Lewandowski Łukasz , Janicka-Kłos Anna , Niedziela Tomasz , Wasilewski Andrzej , Kasprzak Adrian , Matera-Witkiewicz Agnieszka , Zatoński Tomasz , Połtyn-Zaradna Katarzyna , Ściskalska Milena , Brutkowski Tomasz , Kazanowska Bernarda
Published: February 2025

Cancer cells undergo significant metabolic changes to support their rapid proliferation and growth. Leukemias, a diverse group of blood cancers, constitute a significant proportion of childhood cancers. This heterogeneity may result in distinct metabolic profiles, offering potential insights for improved diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment strategies. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing is essential to detect central nervous system involvement by leukemia and to counteract the effects of the involvement.. In preliminary study, a qualitative, untargeted metabolomics approach was used to analyze CSF and plasma samples from children with leukemia. A total of 20 pairs of CSF and plasma samples from patients were included in the analysis, along with 20 plasma samples from healthy children. ¹H NMR spectroscopy revealed more than 33 metabolites in the samples. Significant differences were observed between the metabolite profiles of CSF and plasma, with some metabolites being common to both fluids and others being unique to each. Our preliminary findings suggest that patients with leukemia exhibit distinct metabolic profiles between plasma and CSF and between plasma in leukemia and plasma from healthy controls. Further studies are warranted to investigate the potential diagnostic and prognostic value of metabolic profiling in childhood leukemia.
Evaluation of the short-term results of transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation in male patients with overactive bladder
Authors: Donmez Ulku , Turan Turgay , Suluova Ali
Published: February 2025

Background The aim of this study is to evaluate the short-term results of consecutive transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation on quality of life and symptoms in the treatment of male patients with overactive bladder symptoms.Materials and methods Patients who came to the urology outpatient clinic with frequent urination, urgency, nocturia and/or urinary incontinence and who were diagnosed with overactive bladder were included in the study. 62 male patient were divided into 2 groups. The first group was treated with only standard medical therapy (anticholinergic) and second group was treated transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation in addition to them. Transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation treatment was adjusted to be 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks. All patients were evaluated at 0., 2. and 4 months. Overactive bladder score, quality of life form (SF-12), number of urinary episodes, and incontinence were recorded.Results In both groups, there was a decrease in all clinical symptoms of overactive bladder and an improved quality of life scores at the end of treatment, with statistical significance (p < 0.05). In the intergroup comparison, the improvement of all parameters in the transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation group was found to be more significant than the medical group at the end of the 4th month.Conclusion Transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation administered addition to standard medical treatment is effective on symptoms and quality of life in the treatment of male patients with overactive bladder.Clinical Trial Number: Not applicable.
Caveolae-Mediated Sensing of Nanoporous Cues in Fibroblasts Reprogramming During Wound Healing
Authors: Shi Keqing , Guo Feixia , Xie Wei , Lin Wante , Yi Meilin , Li Haobing , Niu Xiaoying , Abdo Ebrahim , Wang Hongwei , Wang Shunfu , Wang Jian , Xiao Jian , Chen Zimiao
Published: February 2025

Scaffolds with pores can influence cellular fate and tissue microenvironments by altering intracellular and intercellular signaling pathways, which are crucial for guiding tissue regeneration. Despite their significance, the cellular mechanisms behind the response to pores, especially at the nanoscale, are not well understood. Our study shows that scaffolds with different nanopore characteristics can enhance skin regeneration in various ways, with fibroblasts being the primary cellular responders. We have demonstrated that caveolae formation is a critical mechanism by which fibroblasts interact with nanopores. The phosphorylation of caveolin-1 (Cav1) is a key event in this process, enabling caveolae-mediated endocytosis and the subsequent internalization of cellular substances. This initiates a cascade of events involving the internalization of cell surface receptors such as PDGFRβ, activation of tyrosine kinase pathways including PI3K, AKT, and ERK1/2, and the phosphorylation of the transcription factor RUNX1. The nuclear translocation of RUNX1 upregulates the expression of fibroblast growth factor binding protein 3 (FGFBP3), which is a key factor in tissue repair. Additionally, cytoplasmic Cav1 can competitively bind to Filamin-A, releasing CBFβ, which then translocates to the nucleus and enhances RUNX1's DNA-binding affinity, synergistically activating FGFBP3 transcription and promoting tissue healing. Collectively, our findings underscore the importance of considering nanopore characteristics in scaffold design for tissue regeneration and highlight caveolae formation as a central mediator of cellular responses to nanoporous environments, initiating a multitude of biological processes essential for tissue repair and regeneration.
An Ultra-Long-Acting Dimeric Bictegravir Prodrug Defined by a Short Pharmacokinetic Tail
Authors: Edagwa Benson , Nayan Mohammad Ullah , Sillman Brady , Das Srijanee , Hanson Brandon , Sultana Ashrafi , Le Nam Thai Hoang , Deodhar Suyash , Dash Alekha , Cohen Samuel , Gendelman Howard
Published: February 2025

Ultra-long-acting (ULA) antiretroviral parenteral formulations, with low injection volumes, high resistance barriers, and short pharmacokinetic (PK) tails, can transform HIV-1 therapeutics. Here, we converted bictegravir (BIC), a potent daily oral antiretroviral drug, into monomeric and homodimeric ester prodrugs. The homodimeric prodrug nanosuspension, NMXBIC, shows sustained plasma BIC levels > 16 times the protein-adjusted 95% inhibitory concentration (PA-IC95) for six months after a single injection in Sprague Dawley rats. The results paralleled a short PK tail with the potential for late dose forgiveness. The monomeric prodrug nanosuspension, NM2BIC, shows lower year-long plasma BIC concentrations above PA-IC95 after a single injection in Sprague Dawley rats. After repeated injections, NMXBIC and NM2BIC are well tolerated in New Zealand White rabbits. NMXBIC’s physicochemical properties and high BIC loading/unit mass of the prodrug contribute to its unique ULA PK profile. These results support its development as a ULA formulation for HIV-1 treatment and prevention.
In silico approach for the prospecting of molecules from Cereus jamacaru (Cereeae) in the treatment of obesity and cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Cardoso Maria Izadora Oliveira , Oliveira Júlia , Bassaneze V. , Amaral D. T.
Published: February 2025

The Caatinga biome in Brazil is home to unique plant species with significant bioactive potential, such as Cereus jamacaru (Mandacaru). Historically used in traditional medicine for treating kidney issues, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions, this plant contains macromolecules, which may play a role in therapeutic applications. Here, we integrate transcriptomics, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics approaches to explore the potential of C. jamacaru proteomics to binding to triacylglycerol molecules, particularly targeting triacylglycerol formed by lauric, myristic, and palmitic acids. Transcriptome analysis identified 128,942 transcripts, with 14,739 homologous proteins screened for binding affinities. Molecular docking highlighted an isoform of Banyan Peroxidase as a versatile candidate, exhibiting strong binding energies across all triacylglycerols, particularly palmitic acid (-7.632 kcal/mol). Xyloglucan Endotransglycosylase demonstrated specificity for myristic acid (-7.752 kcal/mol), while Non-specific Lipid-Transfer Protein showed exceptional structural stability in dynamic simulations. The molecular dynamics simulations, performed over 100 ns, revealed key insights into protein stability and ligand interactions. Banyan Peroxidase displayed moderate flexibility, enhancing its adaptability to diverse triacylglycerol substrates. Conversely, Xyloglucan Endotransglycosylase exhibited compact stability, making it a strong candidate for targeted new applications. These findings highlight the untapped potential of C. jamacaru as a source of bioactive proteins, bridging traditional knowledge with advanced computational methodologies.
Sexual identity inequalities in the co-occurrence between poor mental health and health risk behaviours – A national cohort study
Authors: Khanolkar Amal R. , Karamanos Alexis , Becares Laia
Published: February 2025

Background
Mental health challenges (MHC) like depression and anxiety, and health and risk behaviours (HRBs) are more common among sexual minority adolescents (SMA) than in heterosexual peers. Limited studies have examined the co-occurrence between poor mental health and HRBs, whether risk for co-occurrence differs by sexual identity, and associated risks for self-harm and attempted suicide in adolescents in the UK.
Methods
This study included 10,233 adolescents aged 17 (51% female and 11% sexual minority) from the UK-wide Millennium Cohort Study. Sexual identity, MHC, HRBs, self-harm and attempted suicide were self-reported by adolescents. MHC were assessed using the strengths and difficulties questionnaire [SDQ] emotional symptoms subscale for depression/anxiety. Seven common HRBs (like regular smoking, drug use and risky sexual behaviour) were assessed. Associations between sexual identity and risk for co-occurrence between MHC and HRBs were assessed using multinomial logistic regression. Predicted probabilities for self-harm or attempted suicide based on sexual identity and MH-HRB co-occurrence status were estimated using logistic regression models with appropriate interactions terms (between sexual identity and MH-HRB co-occurrence status variables).
Results
MHC prevalence was higher in gay/lesbian (48%) and bisexual (49%) adolescents compared to heterosexual peers (19%). Prevalence of self-harm (bisexual: 64%, gay/lesbian:53%, heterosexual:19%) and attempted suicide (bisexual: 24%, gay/lesbian:17%, heterosexual:6%) were higher in sexual minority adolescents compared to heterosexual peers. Gay/lesbian and bisexual adolescents consistently reported higher risk for MH-HRB co-occurrence compared to heterosexual peers (for example, for gay/lesbian individuals: RRR3.16 [95% CI 2.14–4.68] for MH-1HRB, RRR3.54[95% CI 2.06–6.08] for MH-≥3HRB, for bisexual adolescents, RRR2.44 [95% CI 1.85–3.20] for MH-1HRB, RRR4.11[95% CI 2.99–5.66] for MH-≥3HRB). MH-HRB co-occurrence and sexual minority identity were independently associated with risk for self-harm or attempted suicide. Gay/lesbian and bisexual adolescents experienced higher probabilities of reporting self-harm than heterosexual peers with the same level of MH-HRB co-occurrence. For example, 37.2% of heterosexual adolescents with MH-1HRB reported self-harm. Corresponding numbers were more than twice as high in bisexual (75.7%) and gay/lesbian (77.9%) individuals. Similarly, 58.3% of heterosexual adolescents with MH-≥3HRBs reported self-harm, which increased to 84.6% in bisexual and 83.8% in gay/lesbian peers.
Conclusions
SMA are more likely to experience MH-HRB co-occurrence, which is also associated with substantially higher risks for self-harm and attempted compared to heterosexual peers. Our findings highlight the need for better public health policies to address poor mental health and associated comorbidities to reduce inequalities in adolescence.
A circular economy approach for the global lithium-ion battery supply chain
Authors: Wu Yufeng , Zhai Mengyu , Tian Shaonan , Yuan Haoran , Luo Xubiao , Huang Guohe , Fu Yupeng , Zhu Mengye , Gu Yifan , Huan Wei , Dai Yu , Wang Huaidong , Yang Liming , Li Bin , Yin Xiaofei , Liu Gongqi , gu jing , Wang Yazhuo , Chen Yong , Zuo Tieyong
Published: February 2025

The lithium-ion battery supply chain is critical for global decarbonization, yet its geographically dispersed production stages pose significant challenges for carbon emission management. Here, we develop a lithium cycle computable general equilibrium model (LCCGE) that integrates a lifecycle assessment with regional economic dynamics to systematically evaluate carbon emissions and circular economy strategies across the global supply chain. Our analysis reveals that while downstream cathode production generates 42.1% of the economic value with only 34.8% of the emissions, upstream mining contributes merely 18.5% of the value but accounts for 38.6% of the total emissions (217.08 Mt CO₂-eq). Through a comprehensive scenario analysis of circular economy pathways, we demonstrate that consumer-oriented recycling strategies achieve optimal emission intensity reduction (16.30% by 2060), which is particularly effective in East Asian economies. Our proposed technology-oriented cross-regional circular economy framework (J020-R222) yields the highest emission reduction potential (32.98% globally), with manufacturing powerhouses demonstrating exceptional capabilities (U.S. 39.53%, EU 37.10%, China 34.46%). By integrating environmental, technological, and trade strategies in a circular economy context, these findings provide critical insights for developing regionally tailored yet globally coordinated decarbonization pathways while establishing a novel methodological framework for analysing complex supply chain sustainability through circular economy approaches.
Association between serum creatine kinase levels and the risk of all-cause mortality among centenarians: A prospective cohort study in China
Authors: Gong Xinyan , Zhang Qingtao , Niu Yue , Yu Xiang , Ji Yuwei , Wang Baolong , Hu Hongyan , Zhu Qiao , Chen Yujian , Ning Chaoxue , Fu Shihui , Yang Shanshan , Wang Shengshu , Liu Miao , Zhao Yali , He Yao , Jin Xinye , Zhang Jie , Luo Qing , Sun Ding , Li Hao , Zhang Zehao , Qu Zeyu , Chen Xiangmei , Chen Yizhi , Feng Zhe
Published: February 2025

Background
Muscle mass (MM) was important because of its strong correlation with all-cause mortality. However, its assessment was complex, nonportable and expensive. Serum creatine kinase (CK) was proposed to counteract this problem. However, its correlation with all-cause mortality was unknown.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between serum CK levels and all-cause mortality risk in Chinese centenarians.
Methods
A prospective cohort study of centenarians was conducted to classify serum CK levels according to all-cause mortality via restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis, Cox regression analysis and Kaplan‒Meier analysis.
Results
We included 949 participants with a median follow-up of 29.4 months (interquartile range (IQR) 14.5, 51.7). A total of 92.9% of the subjects died. The RCS analysis revealed an inverse J-shaped relationship between the serum CK level and the risk of death. The mortality rate of centenarians with serum CK levels ranging from 8–66 U/L (Q1–Q2) was 34.3% higher than that of those with serum CK levels ranging from 66–192 U/L (Q3–Q4) (multivariable analysis hazard ratio (HR), 1.343; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.173–1.538; P < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier analyses revealed that centenarians with lower serum CK levels had significantly shorter median survival time (Q1‒Q2 versus Q3‒Q4: 26 months versus 36 months, log-rank P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Serum CK levels were negatively associated with centenarian mortality, indicating that they may predict mortality risk in centenarians. CK could be utilized as an independent predictor of mortality in centenarians.
Clinical Trial Registry number and website where it was obtained.
Not applicable.
Registry and registry number for systematic reviews or meta-analyses.
Not applicable.
Self-Efficacy is Associated with Health Behaviors Related to Obesity and Cardiovascular Risk among Hispanic/Latinx and Somali Immigrants to the United States
Authors: Tranby Brianna , Sia Irene , Clark Matthew , Novotny Paul , Lohr Abby , Pardo Laura Suarez , Patten Christi , Iteghete Sheila , Zeratsky Katherine , Rieck Thomas , Molina Luz , Capetillo Graciela Porraz , Ahmed Yahye , Dirie Hana , Wieland Mark
Published: February 2025

Background:
Self-efficacy theory proposes that confidence to engage in a health behavior is associated with engaging in that specific behavior. Most research examining self-efficacy has been conducted with white young adult populations. This secondary analysis examined the association of self-efficacy (i.e., confidence) for healthy eating and physical activity in two immigrant communities.
Methods:
At enrollment into the Healthy Immigrant Community study, a clinical weight management and cardiovascular risk reduction intervention set in southeastern [state], 475 participants completed assessments about their confidence for healthy eating and physical activity. Measurements also included self-reports of dietary quality and intake, physical activity, quality of life, and biometric assessments. Study materials were available in English, Spanish, and Somali.
Results
In total, 450 adults (Hispanic/Latinx = 267; Somali = 183) completed measures at baseline and were included for analysis. Their average age was 45 years (range 18–87) and 59% were female. Confidence for healthy eating was significantly associated with self-report of eating healthy snacks (p = < 0.0001) and less consumption of high-calorie drinks (p = 0.02) and regular soda (p = < 0.0001). Confidence to be physically active was significantly associated with more self-reported physical activity (p = < 0.01).
Conclusions
Confidence to eat healthy and be physically active appears to be associated with having a healthier diet and higher levels of physical activity. Given the large sample size and strength of the associations, it also appears that the theoretical model of self-efficacy can be effectively measured and applied within these immigrant populations. Self-efficacy theory may be useful in understanding potential mediating mechanisms when designing future interventions with immigrant communities.
ClinicalTrials.gov registration:
NCT05136339; April 23, 2022
Analyzing Sentiments towards Performance of New Academic Programs in A Ghanaian University: A Case of Ghana Communication Technology University
Authors: Susuassey Wonder Kwaku , Adjei Daniel , Agbeli Deborah Esenam , Asante Emmanuel Frimpong , Mensah Dorinda Nyarko
Published: February 2025

Introduction of new programs in educational institutions in Ghana requires the introduction of a new curriculum. However, the performance of the new programs after the admission of students into the programs becomes questionable as the least performance is achieved. As Ghanaian univer- sities continue to expand their curriculum to meet the evolving demands of the digital economy, understanding the perceptions and experiences of the academic community becomes essential for gauging the success and potential areas for improvement of these programs. The study performs a supervised sentiment analysis on reviews gathered from students enrolled in new academic pro- grams towards the recommendation of the programs to people. The primary data for this study were drawn from a sample of 226 students, using both open-ended and closed-ended structured questionnaires. In the study, four machine learning methods, including Multinomial Naı̈ve Bayes, Support Vector Machine, Logistic Regression, and Random Forest were applied. The methods are compared, and the empirical findings reveal that the Support Vector Machine and Random For- est approaches outperformed the Multinomial Naı̈ve Bayes and Logistic Regression approaches, resulting in generally positive sentiment towards the performance of the new academic programs. By analyzing the sentiments of students, the study recommends actionable insights that can guide the university in enhancing its academic offerings and aligning them with the expectations of its community.
«Пиренейский мир»: Испания и Португалияв системе внешнеполитических приоритетовАнглии в 1640–1688 годах.
Authors: Гордиенко Д.О.
Published: February 2025

Статья посвящена проблемам англо-пиренейских отношений в 1640–1668 гг. В ней показано важное значение полуострова для Англии в XVI веке. В деталях прослеживается роль англо-испанских и англо-португальских отношений в середине XVII века. Раскрыто место королевского двора в англо-испанских отношениях во время войны 1654–1660 гг. и показана роль англо-португальского брачного союза 1661 г. в контексте формирования Британской колониальной империи. Дается анализ действиям английской бригады в португальской войне за независимость 1660 года.

The article is devoted to the problems of Anglo-Pyrenean relations in 1640–1668. The important place of the Peninsula for England in the XVI century is shown. The role of Anglo-Spanish and Anglo-Portuguese relations in the middle of the XVII century is traced in detail. The place of the royalist court in the Anglo-Spanish relations during the war of 1654–1660 is revealed. The place of the Anglo-Portuguese marriage alliance of 1661 in the aspects of the British colonial Empire formation is shown. The actions of the English brigade in the Portuguese war of independence in 1660 are analyzed.
Место и роль католических джентрив ирландском обществе XVIII века
Authors: Лагошина Н.А.
Published: February 2025

Укрепление позиций Британской империи XVIII в. привело к необходимости установления контроля над соседней Ирландией, имеющей тесные торгово-экономические связи с католической Европой. Несмотря на ограничительный характер, последствия уголовных законов, предназначенных для поддержания протестантской власти в стране, благотворно отразились на положении большинства католиков, являющихся посредниками в аренде недвижимости и главными арендаторами крупных поместий. Источники показывают, что социальный статус и общественное влияние католических посредников, обеспечивающих взаимодействие землевладельцев с конечными арендаторами, были значительно выше, чем предполагалось ранее в зарубежной историографии. Интерес потомков гэльской знати к народной культуре, исполнение основных административно-политических функций в графствах способствовали развитию стратегии адаптации к новым общественно-политическим реалиям. В статье изучаются место и роль католических посредников в ирландском обществе, их традиционные практики взаимодействия, обеспечившие выживание ирландских католиков в XVIII в.

The strengthening of the position of the British Empire in the XVIIIth century led to the need to establish control over neighboring Ireland, which has close trade and economic ties with Catholic Europe. Despite its restrictive character, the economic consequences of Penal laws designed to maintain Protestant power in the country have had a beneficial effect for the most part Catholics who are intermediaries and tenants of large estates. Historical sources demonstrate that the social status and social influence of Catholic middleman that ensure interaction between landlords and final tenants were significantly higher than it previously assumed in foreign historiography. The involvement of the descendants of the Gaelic nobility in popular culture and the performance of the main administrative and political functions in the counties contributed to the development of a strategy of adaptation new socio-political realities. The article examines the position and role of Catholic gentry in the Irish society, their traditional cultural characteristics and interaction practices that ensured the survival of the Irish Catholics in the State.
В постижении «мира, утраченного нами»:дискуссия об этногенезе пиктов и скоттовв британской историографии
Authors: Ласкова Н.В.
Published: February 2025

Статья посвящена проблеме этногенеза шотландцев. Рассматриваются концепции о происхождении пиктов и скоттов в британской историографии. Показаны основные представления и спорные моменты по вопросу о формировании шотландской этнической общности. Подчеркивается актуальность этой проблемы посредством связи рассматриваемых этнокомпонентов с возникновением шотландского государства и становления шотландской монархии. Отмечена связь теорий об этногенезе шотландского народа с политическими аспектами британской истории.

The article is devoted to the problem of ethnogenesis of Scots. Concepts about the origin of Picts and Scots in British historiography are considered. The main ideas and controversial points on the formation of the Scottish ethnic community are shown. The relevance of this problem is emphasized through the connection of the considered ethnocomponents with the emergence of the Scottish state and the formation of the Scottish monarchy. The connection of theories about the ethnogenesis of the Scottish people with political aspects of British history is noted.
Role of scaling dimensions in generalized noises in fractional quantum Hall tunneling due to a temperature bias
Authors: Acciai Matteo , Zhang Gu , Spånslätt Christian
Published: February 2025

Continued improvement of heat control in mesoscopic conductors brings novel tools for probing strongly correlated electron phenomena. Motivated by these advances, we comprehensively study transport due to a temperature bias in a quantum point contact device in the fractional quantum Hall regime. We compute the charge-current noise (so-called delta-TT noise), heat-current noise, and mixed noise and elucidate how these observables can be used to infer strongly correlated properties of the device. Our main focus is the extraction of so-called scaling dimensions of the tunneling anyonic quasiparticles, of critical importance to correctly infer their anyonic exchange statistics.
ABP como fortalecedor del conocimiento en materias básicas de la Unidad Educativa Básica Eloy Alfaro
Authors: Intriago-Zambrano Donny-Amilcar , Huatatoca-Chimbo Leidy , Vasconcellos Nícolas , Martínez Pérez Odette
Published: February 2025

This study focuses on evaluating the perception of the impact of pedagogical strategies based on Project-Based Learning (PBL) in strengthening the teaching-learning process of basic subjects at the Eloy Alfaro Basic Education Unit. The objective is to analyze how PBL influences the perception of learning, motivation and participation of third-year basic education students in their educational process. The methodology used comprises a quantitative methods. Through the design of an operationalization of variables, a survey segmented into categories was created that systematically evaluates the perception of students regarding the use of PBL and its impact on strengthening the teaching-learning process of the basic subjects. The data collected and analyzed resulted in a positive perception about the implementation of PBL in the teaching-learning process, highlighting its potential to encourage aspects such as teamwork, motivation for learning, participation and a better assimilation of knowledge, generating a positive impact on student performance. The study concludes by indicating that PBL has a high potential to replace traditional teaching processes, providing both the teaching staff and the students with a more dynamic, functional and adaptable pedagogical strategy for various areas of study; however, it can increase the degree of complexity of the learning process.
La más verdadera tragedia: conciliación y antagonismo en las Leyes de Platón
Authors: Giménez Salinas José Antonio
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the quarrel with the tragic poets in Laws, VII 817b-d, by emphasizing, on the one hand, fundamental differences with the more famous quarrel of the Republic, and by arguing, on the other hand, for a strong (and not merely rhetorical) reading of the central claim of the passage, namely, that the very political constitution proposed in the dialogue is itself the “truest tragedy.” Assuming this perspective, I show that the constitution of Magnesia is the best possible tragedy insofar as it makes possible the greatest realization of the community’s life, recognizing, appealing to, and integrating human passions and weaknesses within itself. We are confronted with a notion of tragedy that, while recognizing as its starting point the antagonism proper to the tragic genre, aspires to common happiness as the most beautiful culmination of the human drama.
A reforma da educação profissional dos anos 1990 e sua aplicação no currículo do centro federal de educação tecnológica do Rio Grande do Norte
Authors:   , Lima Ana Paula Marinho de
Published: February 2025

Nesta dissertação, discutimos acerca dos impactos da Reforma da Educação Profissional na década de 1990, no Centro Federal de Educação Tecnológica do Rio Grande do Norte (CEFET/RN). Buscamos responder o seguinte questionamento: como a Reforma da Educação Profissional dos anos 1990 foi aplicada no currículo do CEFET/RN? Portanto, o objetivo geral foi analisar as implicações da Reforma da Educação Profissional, da década de 1990, na proposta curricular do CEFET-RN. Como percurso metodológico, utilizamos a pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Na pesquisa bibliográfica, consultamos autores como: Frigotto (2006), Frigotto e Ciavatta (2003, 2012), Oliveira (2003), Saviani (2011), Ramos (2007), Bresser-Pereira (1997, 1996), Cunha (2005), Shiroma, Moraes e Evangelista (2011), Harvey (2008), Mèszáros (2008), Harvey (2008). Na pesquisa documental, realizamos o exame da legislação criada pelo Ministério da Educação durante o período de Reforma da Educação Profissional, a saber: o Decreto n° 2.208/1997, a Portaria n° 646/1997, a Portaria n° 1005/1997, o Parecer CNE/CEB nº 16/1999, a Resolução CNE/CEB n° 04/1999. Também analisamos documentos elaborados pelo CEFET-RN: a Proposta Curricular da Escola Técnica Federal do Rio Grande Norte/ETFRN (1995) e o Projeto de Reestruturação Curricular do Centro Federal de Educação Tecnológica do Rio Grande do Norte /CEFET/RN – volumes I e II (1999). A pesquisa classifica-se como qualitativa e teve como critério de análise o contexto cultural, social e político em que os documentos foram elaborados, assim como, a fundamentação teórica utilizada. Os resultados nos mostraram que antes da Reforma, o CEFET/RN já disponha de uma Proposta Curricular em ação, a qual comtemplava em sua matriz curricular a articulação entre as disciplinas gerais e as técnicas. A formação para os sujeitos tinha como base a concepção histórico-crítica e omnilateralidade. Com a implementação da Reforma, a instituição teve que adequar o currículo às determinações do Decreto n° 2.208/1997 e do Programa de Expansão da Educação Profissional/PROEP. Dessa forma, o CEFET/RN passou a ofertar cursos modulares e flexíveis, e quanto à concepção pedagógica, essa privilegiou a pedagogia das competências
Features of Trace Element Imbalance of Tissues of Tooth-Jaw System under Conditions of Zinc Deficiency Against the Background of Hypothyroid Dysfunction, Insulin Resistance and Obesity of Rats
Authors: Bodnar Roksolana
Published: February 2025

The relevance of the study is due to the prevalence of periodontal lesions, which may be associated with environmental factors (including deficiency or excess of bioelements in nature), the prevalence of general somatic pathology. Endocrine disorders deserve a special attention due to the constant increase the incidence of diabetes mellitus, obesity, thyroid pathology.
The aim of the study – to determine the features of zinc, calcium and magnesium distribution in the cementum of the tooth root, the alveolar process and part, the erythrocytes mass under conditions of zinc and iodine deficiency, high-carbohydrate and high-fat diet.
Materials and methods. The study was carried on white outbred mature male rats weighing 150-180 g. Rats of the 1st research group (n=12) received products with a reduced zinc content, 2nd (n=12) – were on an iodine-deficient ration, 3rd (n=12) – were on a high-fructose diet to model insulin resistance, 4th (n=12) – were given a high-fat diet to reproduce obesity. The animals of a control group were on a standard diet and drinking regime of the vivarium. The animals were withdrawn from the experiment after eight weeks of being on the diets. The content of zinc, calcium and magnesium was determined in the cementum of the tooth root, the alveolar process and part, the erythrocyte mass of animals by atomic absorption spectrophotometry after preliminary mineralisation of tissue samples by dry ashing. Thyroid profile and carbohydrate metabolism markers were also determined, and the insulin resistance index was calculated, as well as body mass index.
Results. The study found that under conditions of zinc deficiency in the cementum of the tooth root and the alveolar process and part, the zinc content decreases, but the magnesium level increases. Iodine-deficient diet and high-carbohydrate loading causes a decrease of trace elements in the alveolar process and part, a decrease of calcium in the cementum of the tooth root against the background of an increase the level of zinc and magnesium compared to the control. Under the conditions of a high-fat diet, the content of zinc and calcium decreases, but the level of magnesium in the cementum of the tooth root increases.
Conclusions. Limited intake of zinc or iodine to organism, excessive carbohydrate or fat loading are the risk factors for trace element imbalance, metabolic disorders, development of endocrine pathology, and significantly increase the risks of periodontal tissue damage.
The Impact of Private School Teachers’ Views of School Climate on Their Perceptions of Job Security
Authors: Turhan Esra , Çapanoğlu Ceren
Published: February 2025

The current study was conducted to examine the effects of private school teachers’ views about school climate on their job security perceptions. The study was designed using the correlational model, which is one of the quantitative research methods. The sample group of the study consists of 294 teachers working in private secondary schools located in the Çankaya district of Ankara. Data were collected through the “Job Security Perception Scale” and the “Organizational Climate Scale” and analyzed by using descriptive statistics, the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient model, and multivariate linear regression analysis technique. The results obtained from the research indicate that private school teachers’ job security perceptions are slightly below the moderate level while their views on the dimensions of school climate are generally at the moderate level. There are statistically significant relationships between private school teachers’ job security perceptions and their views on the school climate. According to the findings concerning the final sub-question of the research, the views of private school teachers on the school climate predict approximately 55% (R2=0.545) of their job security perceptions. When the dimensions of the school climate are examined separately, it is observed that a significant portion of this effect is attributed to supportive principal behavior, which positively influences job security perceptions. Based on the results obtained from the research, it is recommended to take measures to inspect the working conditions of private school teachers and enhance the administrative support provided to them.
Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships to Fund Infrastructure Projects in India
Authors: Sayan Basu
Published: February 2025

India has been afflicted by a severe lack of infrastructure. Because it thinks the public-private partnership (PPP) model is the most effective way to bridge this gap, the Indian government has launched a number of projects in this area. This essay discusses the foundations of PPP and how it functions in India. One of the primary issues is funding for infrastructure. This research paper discusses some of the problems that beset infrastructure finance in India, including an over-reliance on commercial banks for debt repayment, a lack of funding from infrastructure finance firms, difficulties with external commercial borrowing, a lack of mezzanine financing, the partial availability of insurance, pension, and provident funds, and non-financing issues. Other recent innovations like debt bonds for infrastructure, relaxed regulations for borrowing from the outside world, and equitable departure plans are all examined. The study suggests several financial changes that are required for PPP finance in India, such as raising the cap on funding for viability gaps, permitting balloon payments, permitting foreign direct investment, promoting corporate bonds, and creating infrastructure corpuses
Identifying Profiles of Digital Literacy Among Community-Dwelling Korean Older Adults: Latent Profile Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Shin Jiyoung , Kang Hun , Choi Seongmi , Chu Sang Hui , Choi JiYeon
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

The digital divide is apparent not only between older and younger generations but also within the older adult population itself. Identifying digital literacy profiles among older adults is crucial for developing targeted strategies to narrow this divide.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify profiles of digital literacy among community-dwelling older adults and to examine factors associated with these profiles.

METHODS

Data were collected from community-dwelling older adults in South Korea through a nationwide cross-sectional survey that assessed digital literacy and related factors. Digital literacy was evaluated across 3 domains: information and communication (9 items), content creation and management (4 items), and safety and security (9 items). Latent profile analysis was used to identify profiles of digital literacy among community-dwelling older adults, and multinomial logistic regression was used to identify predictors of profile membership.

RESULTS

A total of 1016 older adults completed structured questionnaires (average age 68, SD 6.5 years; 486/1016, 47.8% men). Three digital literacy profiles were identified (P<.001): “low level” (346/1016, 34.1%), “middle level” (374/1016, 36.8%), and “high level” (296/1016, 29.1%). With the “middle-level” digital literacy group as the reference group, older adult participants (odds ratio [OR] 1.11, 95% CI 1.07-1.15) with less than a middle school education (vs with a college degree or higher; OR 7.22, 95% CI 2.31-22.54), who needed help with one of the 10 instrumental daily activities (vs ≥2 activities; OR 3.06, 95% CI 1.11-8.40) and who did not engage in in-person social activities (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.07-3.07), were more likely to be in the “low-level” group. Women were less likely to be in the “high-level” digital literacy group than men (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.25-0.80). Participants with less than a college education were also less likely to be in the “high-level” group, with those having less than a middle school education showing the lowest OR (OR 0.17, 95% CI 0.07-0.41). Those who had never worked (OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.06-0.90) and those not engaging in regular physical exercise (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.40-0.84) were also less likely to be in the “high-level” digital literacy group. Participants with greater social support were more likely to be in the “high-level” digital literacy group (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.22-2.37).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings underscore the characteristics linked to lower digital literacy and suggest a tailored approach to meet the needs of diverse groups of older adults in a digitalizing society. To promote digital literacy among older adults, potential strategies include improving access to and guidance for using digital devices, specifically designed for this demographic, as well as promoting social support and encouraging participation in social activities.