bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A'yunt huh : The Meaning of Annuities to the Seneca Indians, 1784–1848
Authors: Oberg Michael Leroy
Published: December 2024

Abstract: Between 1784 and 1842 the Seneca Indians, the westernmost of the Six Iroquois Nations of the Haudenosaunee, relinquished the bulk of their land in exchange for payments from New York State, from the United States, and indirectly from land companies that operated with or without these governments' permission. Historians have not paid enough attention to these annuities. On one hand, annuities seem innocuous: a convenience for the purchasers, or the token price paid to Native peoples for the surrender of a homeland. On the other hand, annuity receipts and reports—and the entire bureaucratic structure that emerged to pay and account for them—are an important set of historic records. They are rich sources hidden in plain sight. Payment of New York State's annuities, for instance, offers a seldom-explored paper trail that sheds an unexpected light on demographics, mobility, family structure, and culture change in Iroquois communities. By exploring the history of annuities in one Native nation over a span of decades, we can arrive at a fuller understanding of the mechanics of settler colonialism and how Indigenous leaders countered the grasping powers that sought their complete dispossession and disappearance.
Peter Paret
Authors: Sheehan James J.
Published: December 2024

Abstract: This biographical memoir commemorates the life, work, and professional legacy of eminent historian Peter Paret (1924-2020), who was elected a member of the American Philosophical Society in 1988.
Large-area, Efficient and Flexible Composite Nano-structures Fabrication Platform for Visible-mid-infrared Perfect Absorber
Authors: Jiang Shaoji , Tan Shi-long , Yang Fan , Chen Wen-Jie , Zhao Fuli , Li Ruihao
Published: December 2024

Metamaterials based on different nano-structures have proceeded the landscape of possibilities in several fields, such as perfect absorption, sensing application, photovoltaic devices and so on. Thus, it is worth to design a fabrication platform which can manufacture several kinds of nano-structures flexibly. However, it is challenging to fabricate the metamaterials in a large-area and efficient and low-cost way. Here a composite fabrication platform is designed, which consists of the microspheres self-assembly technology, reactive ion etching, and magnetron sputtering. It can fabricate the nano-cone structures, nano-volcano structures and nano-hole structures with 10 cm2. The geometric parameters and substrate of nano-structures can be adjusted flexibly by our composite fabrication platform. What’s more, the nano-volcano structure is combined with multilayered cermet thin films to design and fabricate an ultra-broadband metamaterial absorber (Aavg >91% at 300-10450 nm) with excellent bending and heating tolerance. It reveals the practicability of nano-structures and the potential of our composite fabrication platform.
A Novel Solution for Rapid Auto-Focusing in Dynamic Imaging Scenarios
Authors: hu Shenming , xiao zhiyuan , Sun Yuchen , Li Lei , Zhao Hongyu
Published: December 2024

In dynamic imaging scenarios and precision applications requiring rapid refocusing, traditional imaging systems often struggle to maintain sharp and accurate images. To address these challenges, we propose a solution that integrates the Single-Aberration Focusing Lens Inspired by Human Eye Crystals (SAFLE-HEC) with a custom algorithm to enhance both dynamic imaging and precision applications. The SAFLE-HEC lens achieves rapid focus adjustments, with average autofocus times of 10.92 ms in static and 16.81 ms in dynamic scenarios, while maintaining image clarity. Additionally, the lens performs robustly under challenging lighting conditions, including underexposure and overexposure, and demonstrates high accuracy in object tracking. The real-time tracking algorithm allows QR code detection to be completed in under 2 ms. In high-speed turntable tests at 300 rpm, autofocus time increased slightly but remained under 20 ms, and QR code detection stayed under 4 ms. This hardware-software integrated solution provides a cost-effective and efficient option for machine vision, particularly in automated quality inspection and real-time tracking in industrial environments.
Advanced vision transformers and open-set learning for robust mosquito classification: A novel approach to entomological studies
Authors: Karim Ahmed Akib Jawad , Mahmud Muhammad Zawad , Khan Riasat
Published: December 2024

Mosquito-related diseases pose a significant threat to global public health, necessitating efficient and accurate mosquito classification for effective surveillance and control. This work presents an innovative approach to mosquito classification by leveraging state-of-the-art vision transformers and open-set learning techniques. A novel framework has been introduced that integrates Transformer-based deep learning models with comprehensive data augmentation and preprocessing methods, enabling robust and precise identification of ten mosquito species. The Swin Transformer model achieves the best performance for traditional closed-set learning with 99.60% accuracy and 0.996 F1 score. The lightweight MobileViT technique attains an almost equivalent accuracy of 98.90% with significantly reduced parameters and model complexities. Next, the applied deep learning models’ adaptability and generalizability in a static environment have been enhanced by using new classes of data samples during the inference stage that have not been included in the training set. The proposed framework’s ability to handle unseen classes like insects similar to mosquitoes, even humans, through open-set learning further enhances its practical applicability employing the OpenMax technique and Weibull distribution. The traditional CNN model, Xception, outperforms the latest transformer with higher accuracy and F1 score for open-set learning. The study’s findings highlight the transformative potential of advanced deep-learning architectures in entomology, providing a strong groundwork for future research and development in mosquito surveillance and vector control. The implications of this work extend beyond mosquito classification, offering valuable insights for broader ecological and environmental monitoring applications.
Perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and government restrictions on the lives of young adults living with HIV in Kisumu, Kenya
Authors: Zech Jennifer M. , Zerbe Allison , Mangold Michael , Akoth Steve , David Redempta , Odondi Judith , Naitore Doris , Ndede Kelvin , Hsu Allison , Hawken Mark , Harris Tiffany G. , Abrams Elaine J.
Published: December 2024

Young adults with HIV (YAHIV) may be particularly vulnerable to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, associated mitigation measures among YAHIV can adversely impact fragile social and economic systems. We examined the impact of the pandemic and related government-mandated restrictions among YAHIV in Kisumu, Kenya. Between April-May 2021, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among a convenience sample of YAHIV 18–25 years receiving HIV care in Kisumu, Kenya. The information collected included demographics, COVID-19 knowledge, protective measures, and the impact of the pandemic and related restrictions on their daily lives and well-being since the start of the pandemic (i.e., curfews, lockdowns, school/workplace closures). Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Of 275 YAHIV: median age 22 years (IQR: 19–24 years); 178 (65%) female; 222 (81%) completed some secondary education or higher; 108 (39%) lived in an informal housing area. Awareness of COVID-19 was high (99%), mean knowledge score was 4.32 (SD: 0.93; range 1–5) and most reported taking protective measures. Overall, 193 (70%) reported they were affected by COVID-19 and associated restrictions. Almost half (49%) reported changes in a living situation; 24% living with different people, 11% had moved/relocated, and 5% were newly living on the street. Additionally, respondents reported increased verbal arguments (30%) and physical conflict (16%) at home with 8% reporting someone having used/threatened them with a weapon, 12% experiencing physical abuse, 7% being touched in a sexual way without permission, and 5% had forced sex. Impacts of the pandemic and related restrictions were felt across various aspects of YAHIV’s lives, including disrupted living situations and increased exposure to verbal and physical conflict, including sexual violence. Interventions are needed to address the impact and potential negative long-term effects of the pandemic on YAHIV health and well-being.
Barriers and facilitators to programmatic mass drug administration in persistent schistosomiasis hotspot communities: An ethnographic study along Lake Albert, midwestern Uganda
Authors: Odoi Paskari , Neema Stella , Vennervald Birgitte J. , Tukahebwa Edridah M. , Wilson Shona
Published: December 2024

Background

The WHO Neglected Tropical Disease Roadmap for 2021–2030 includes the goal of eliminating schistosomiasis as a public health problem in all endemic countries. Despite heightened efforts since 2012, critical action is still required in addressing barriers to Mass Drug Administration, the primary control method. This includes improvement in adherence by the populations in persistent schistosomiasis hotspots. One such hotspot is the shoreline of Lake Albert, Uganda, where schistosomiasis control is provided to school-aged children and adults. An overemphasis on regular treatment, without comprehensively addressing factors that result in low uptake of treatment in these high-risk populations is likely to impact the elimination of schistosomiasis as a public health problem.

Methods

An ethnographic study using in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions and participant observation was conducted at two study sites along Lake Albert. Thematic content analysis was used during data analysis.

Results

The study revealed that the size, taste and smell of the drug, along with its side-effects; poor community integration and occupational behaviour resulting in non-mobilisation; and unfounded rumours and beliefs remain reasons for persistent low uptake of praziquantel by some. Conversely, lived experience of improved health through participation and knowledge of the dangers of the disease if not treated, facilitated treatment uptake. Positive attitudes to localised sensitisation by community drug distributors show social influence facilitates crucial knowledge attainment. Treatment uptake is further facilitated by the delivery of the drug at no cost at home. Crucially, for the majority of participants the facilitating factors were found to outweigh the inhibitory factors related to the drug’s side effects.

Conclusion

We recommend a good community engagement strategy that provides continuous education and sensitisation, with improved recruitment and training provision for Community Drug Distributors to facilitate programme reach to groups with current poor engagement.
Relevance of reporting leprosy related disability at the completion of multi drug therapy: A 5-year retrospective analysis of disability in persons affected by leprosy at ALERT Hospital Ethiopia
Authors: Tegene Bereket Abebayehu , Atnafu Thomas Asfaw
Published: December 2024

Background

Leprosy is one of the neglected tropical diseases associated with significant morbidity in endemic regions. It causes disability affecting the daily activities and social participation of affected individuals. Understanding the prevalence and trend of leprosy-related disability throughout the world and the accuracy of disability data counted by WHO is crucial in guiding efforts to be made towards the targets set by WHO to be achieved by 2030. This study aims to show the significance of reporting leprosy-related disability at the end of MDT and critique how disability is counted in the context of WHO data.

Methods

This is a mixed method study with a 5-year retrospective analysis of outcomes of newly diagnosed leprosy patients at ALERT Hospital in Ethiopia from 2016 to 2020. A comparative review and analysis of leprosy related G2D (Grade 2 Disability), globally, regionally, and in Ethiopia using WHO data was also done. In addition, semi-structured interview of health workers (HCWs) and professionals working in the field of leprosy at various organizations was conducted.

Results

The trend of G2D among newly diagnosed leprosy patients shows no decline globally for the past 20 years. It is increasing in Africa and stable in the Southeast Asian and American regions where majority of leprosy patients are found showing the gap in early case identification and prompt treatment of leprosy cases. The total number of newly diagnosed leprosy cases at ALERT hospital between January 2016 and December 2020 were 1032 and among those patients who had completed treatment the prevalence of G2D was 33% at diagnosis and 23% at completion. The interview has also shown gaps in the completeness and quality of disability data reported to WHO and how disability is counted.

Conclusion

Leprosy related G2D among newly diagnosed patient is not declining worldwide and even increasing in endemic regions like Ethiopia. More training should be given to health professionals in assessing disability. WHO should make some changes in the way it counts disability as the current definitions are prone to interpretation bias and lacks uniformity among various programmes and health workers. Prospective studies are needed in assessing disability progression post MDT so as design interventions and strategies in preventing worsening of disability after patients are discharged from treatment centre.
A supervised machine learning statistical design of experiment approach to modeling the barriers to effective snakebite treatment in Ghana
Authors: Nyarko Eric , Agyemang Edmund Fosu , Ameho Ebenezer Kwesi , Agyekum Louis , Gutiérrez José María , Fernandez Eduardo Alberto
Published: December 2024

Background

Snakebite envenoming is a serious condition that affects 2.5 million people and causes 81,000–138,000 deaths every year, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. The World Health Organization has set a goal to halve the deaths and disabilities related to snakebite envenoming by 2030. However, significant challenges in achieving this goal include a lack of robust research evidence related to snakebite incidence and treatment, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to combine established methodologies with the latest tools in Artificial Intelligence to assess the barriers to effective snakebite treatment in Ghana.

Method

We used a MaxDiff statistical experiment design to collect data, and six supervised machine learning models were applied to predict responses whose performance showed an advantage over the other through 6921 data points partitioned using the hold-back validation method, with 70% training and 30% validation. The results were compared using key metrics: Akaike Information Criterion corrected, Bayesian Information Criterion, Root Average Squared Error, and Fit Time in milliseconds.

Results

Considering all the responses, none of the six machine learning algorithms proved superior, but the Generalized Regression Model (Ridge) performed consistently better among the candidate models. The model consistently predicted several key significant barriers to effective snakebite treatment, such as the high cost of antivenoms, increased use of unorthodox, harmful practices, lack of access to effective antivenoms in remote areas when needed, and resorting to unorthodox and harmful practices in addition to hospital treatment.

Conclusion

The combination of a MaxDiff statistical experiment design to collect data and six machine learning models allowed the identification of barriers to accessing effective therapies for snakebite envenoming in Ghana. Addressing these barriers through targeted policy interventions, including intensified advocacy, continuous education, community engagement, healthcare worker training, and strategic investments, can enhance the effectiveness of snakebite treatment, ultimately benefiting snakebite victims and reducing the burden of snakebite envenoming. There is a need for robust regulatory frameworks and increased antivenom production to address these barriers.
Detection of neutralizing antibodies against arboviruses from liver homogenates
Authors: Costa Thaís Alkifeles , Arruda Matheus Soares , Garcia-Oliveira Gabriela Fernanda , Reis Erik Vinicius de Sousa , Guimarães Anna Catarina Dias Soares , Moreira Gabriel Dias , Arias Nidia Esther Colquehuanca , Beirão Marina do Vale , Vasilakis Nikos , Hanley Kathryn A. , Drumond Betânia Paiva
Published: December 2024

Yellow fever virus (YFV) circulates in a sylvatic cycle between non-human primates (NHPs) and arboreal mosquitoes in Brazil. Passive monitoring of ill or deceased NHPs is a key component of the Brazilian yellow fever (YF) surveillance program. Samples from NHPs carcasses are usually suitable for molecular tests but not for serological assays. As an alternative to the conventional plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT) based on sera, we tested the utility of liver homogenates from experimentally infected (YFV, Mayaro virus [MAYV], chikungunya virus [CHIKV], or mock) mice to quantify PRNTs. Although homogenates from mock-infected mice showed a low level of nonspecific virus neutralization against all three viruses, homogenates from YFV-, MAYV- and CHIKV-infected mice demonstrated significantly higher levels of virus neutralization compared to controls. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analyses were performed using the median neutralization values of three technical replicates for each infected group separately or collectively. Results showed scores ≥0.97 (95% CI ≥ 0.89–1.0) for the area under the curve at dilutions 1:20 to 1:80, suggesting that median virus neutralization values effectively differentiated infected mice from controls. Liver homogenates obtained from 25 NHP carcasses (collected during the 2017 YF outbreak in Brazil) were also tested using the adapted PRNT as well as rapid lateral flow tests to investigate anti-YFV IgM. Neutralization activity was detected in six NHP samples that were also positive by PCR and anti-YFV IgM tests and one sample that tested negative by PCR and IgM test. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of using liver homogenates as an alternative approach for serological investigation in viral epidemiologic surveillance.
Identification of druggable targets from the interactome of the Androgen Receptor and Serum Response Factor pathways in prostate cancer
Authors: Azam Haleema , Veale Colin , Zitzmann Kim , Marcone Simone , Gallagher William M. , Prencipe Maria
Published: December 2024

Background

The Androgen Receptor (AR) pathway is crucial in driving the progression of prostate cancer (PCa) to an advanced state. Despite the introduction of second-generation AR antagonists, such as enzalutamide, majority of patients develop resistance. Several mechanisms of resistance have been identified, including the constitutive activation of the AR pathway, the emergence of AR spliced variants, and the influence of other signalling pathways. The Serum Response Factor (SRF) was previously identified as a possible player of resistance involved in a crosstalk with the AR signalling pathway. Elevated SRF levels in PCa patients were associated with disease progression and resistance to enzalutamide. However, the molecular mediators of the crosstalk between SRF and AR still need to be elucidated. The objective of this study was to identify common interactors of the AR/SRF crosstalk as therapeutic targets.

Methods

Here we used affinity purification mass spectrometry (MS) following immunoprecipitation of SRF and AR, to identify proteins that interact with both SRF and AR. The list of common interactors was expanded using STRING. Four common interactors were functionally validated using MTT assays.

Results

Seven common interactors were identified, including HSP70, HSP0AA1, HSP90AB1, HSAP5, PRDX1 and GAPDH. Pathway analysis revealed that the PI3k/AKT pathway was the most enriched in the AR/SRF network. Moreover, pharmacological inhibition of several proteins in this network, including HSP70, HSP90, PI3k and AKT, significantly decreased cellular viability of PCa cells.

Conclusions

This study identified a list of AR/SRF common interactors that represent a pipeline of druggable targets for the treatment of PCa.
Study on the optimal scheme of shale complex cracks formation based on Xsite discrete lattice method
Authors: Huang Haoyong , Qiu Guozhou , Wu Jianfa , Guo Yintong , Cui Shuai , Zhang Zhen
Published: December 2024

In the contemporary energy industry, shale gas, as an important unconventional energy resource, has been widely concerned. However, the exploitation of shale gas is faced with complex geological conditions and technical challenges, one of the main challenges is that it is difficult to form discrete complex crack networks in shale, which greatly reduces the recovery rate. For different geological conditions and engineering needs, the criteria for evaluating the effect of reservoir reconstruction will be different. The XSite discrete lattice method can simulate the crack development process and provide detailed crack morphology and characteristic information (crack area, crack volume, etc.). The advantage of the orthogonal experimental design scheme is that it can obtain as much information as possible in a relatively small number of tests, improving the efficiency and cost effectiveness of the test. Therefore, based on Xsite design 6 factor 5 horizontal orthogonal test, this paper obtained the optimal fracturing design scheme with crack area, crack shape volume, tensile crack area and shear crack area as evaluation criteria. The standard deviation of each influencing factor was calculated to obtain the optimal fracturing scheme under different evaluation criteria. And considering a variety of quantitative indicators, calculate the influence weight of each influencing factor, and get the optimal fracturing scheme considering a variety of evaluation basis. Two Wells with different depth and natural fracture development were selected to verify the feasibility of orthogonal simulation test by changing fracturing fluid rate. To provide scientific basis and technical support for optimizing shale gas exploitation scheme.
Novel approach for predicting fake news stance detection using large word embedding blending and customized CNN model
Authors: Altamimi Abdulaziz
Published: December 2024

The proliferation of fake news is one of the major problems that causes personal and societal harm. In today’s fast-paced digital age, misinformation spreads rapidly, often leaving individuals without the time to verify the authenticity of the information. This can cause irreparable damage to personal reputations and organizational credibility. Thus, instigated by the quintessential necessity, there is a dire need to construct a framework for the automatic detection and identification of fake news at its inception. This research presents a novel approach that leverages a combination of three popular word embeddings (FastText, FastText-Subword, and GloVe) integrated with a customized convolutional neural-network(CNN) to classify fake news accurately. The proposed model was tested against the Fake News Challenge dataset. Hundreds of word vector features were generated from the combined embedding and then managed with PCA and significant features were extracted. The proposed model gives an accuracy of 94.58%, 95.35% precision, 97.29% recall, and an F1 score of 96.11%. The proposed framework’s robustness is demonstrated when compared with other machine, deep, and ensemble learning approaches, showing superior performance. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the model is validated on an independent Arabic Fake News dataset.
Glycemic control and bacterial infectious risk in type 2 diabetes: A retrospective cohort from a primary care database
Authors: Lemoine Edouard , Dusenne Mikaël , Schuers Matthieu
Published: December 2024

Objective

The prevalence of diabetes was estimated at 5.3% of the French population in 2020. People with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of infection. Currently, there is no consensus on the impact of glycemic control on infectious risk. The objective was to evaluate whether glycemic control and diabetes severity were associated with infectious risk in type 2 diabetes.

Materials and methods

We designed a multicenter retrospective cohort study using data from a French primary care database. Data were collected from January 2012 to January 2022. Glycemic control was estimated by the threshold of glycated hemoglobin and diabetes severity by the number, and the type, of antidiabetic treatments. Infectious risk was evaluated by the mean of antibiotic prescriptions per year.

Results

Among 59,020 patients, 1959 patients were included in the final analysis. The threshold of glycated hemoglobin was not associated with the mean of antibiotic prescriptions per year (ANOVA p = 0.228). Secondary analyses did not show an association between the number, or the type, of antidiabetic treatments and the mean of antibiotic prescriptions per year (p = 0.53 and p = 0.018, respectively).

No association was observed between glycemic control, diabetes severity and infectious risk in patients with type 2 diabetes. This is the first European study using data from primary care to examine bacterial infectious risk in patients with type 2 diabetes, demonstrating the possibilities offered by the use of databases in primary care research.

Conclusion

Long-term glycemic control was not associated with bacterial infectious risk in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Exploration of forestry carbon sequestration practice path in Guizhou province-based on evolutionary game model
Authors: Yang Wu , Min Zhang , Tao Cui , Jun Yan
Published: December 2024

Guizhou Province has abundant forest resources, and it has great economic value and social benefits to explore the practical path of forestry carbon sequestration. Based on the current situation of forestry carbon sequestration development in Guizhou Province, this paper innovatively integrates forestry carbon sequestration indicators into the existing Environmental, Social and Governance(ESG) evaluation system using an evolutionary game model. It analyzes the factors restricting forestry carbon sequestration and explores the influencing factors of forestry carbon sequestration benefit sharing bodies in Guizhou. Through regression analysis, the paper discusses the impact of enterprise ESG scores, government subsidy amounts, and forestry carbon sequestration costs on forestry carbon sequestration purchase volume. The research results show that enterprise ESG scores and government subsidy amounts have a significant positive impact on enterprise forestry carbon sequestration purchase volume, while forestry carbon sequestration costs have a significant negative impact. The results have passed the robustness test in different industries. The simulation analysis results show that the stable point of the evolutionary game is (1,0,1) and (1,1,0), which verifies that the ESG rating system with forestry carbon sequestration integration can promote enterprises to purchase more forestry carbon sequestration, i.e., the effectiveness of forestry carbon sequestration in activating the ESG rating system mechanism. Based on the research conclusions, the paper puts forward policy implications: the government should accelerate the construction of localized ESG rating systems, improve enterprise information disclosure and supervision, increase subsidies and reduce forestry carbon sequestration costs, and optimize carbon quota design.
Comprehensive analysis of bioinformatics and system biology reveals the association between Girdin and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Huang Tengda , Chen Hongying , Pan Hongyuan , Wu Tian , Ren Xiangyi , Qin Liwen , Yuan Kefei , He Fang
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The actin-binding protein Girdin is overexpressed in various tumors, promoting tumorigenesis and progression. However, the exact mechanisms by which Girdin regulates liver cancer remain poorly understood.

Methods

This study comprehensively analyzed the expression level of Girdin in liver cancer and adjacent tissue, along with the correlation between Girdin expression and the clinical characteristics and prognosis of liver cancer. The analysis integrated data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC) database. Subsequently, Girdin expression was knocked down to elucidate its role in the progression of liver cancer. Transcriptome sequencing was employed to investigate the mechanistic underpinnings of Girdin’s regulatory impact on liver cancer. Additionally, the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) was utilized to identify potential drugs or molecules for liver cancer treatment.

Results

The findings revealed elevated Girdin expression in liver cancer tissues, and heightened Girdin expression correlating with adverse clinical features and prognosis. Silencing of Girdin markedly impeded the proliferation and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Moreover, transcriptome sequencing demonstrated that silencing Girdin led to differential expression of 176 genes and inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, as well as its upstream pathways—Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and Chemokine signaling pathway. Ultimately, we propose that Imatinib Mesylate, Orantinib, Resveratrol, Sorafenib, and Curcumin may interact with Girdin, potentially contributing to the treatment of liver cancer.

Conclusion

This study reveals the association between Girdin and hepatocellular carcinoma, providing novel clues for future research and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Echosystems
Authors: Collins Michael
Published: December 2024

This collection of poems is Mike’s first volume of poetry. Echosystems contains his lyrical musings, distilled after years of travel and teaching. Mike’s world combines intriguing images of nature, and the cultures that stand in various relations with it alongside the human agent that binds them in a specific lyrical system. Most Mike’s poems contain eco-tropes, and his poetic world is a candid reflection of his personal experience, a genuine word–documentary of a micro-universe re-created through the eyes of a biologist fused with the soul of an Indigenous poet.
Virtual Reality for Rehabilitation and Therapy
Authors: Do Nghi
Published: December 2024

This proposal investigates the potential of Virtual Reality (VR) technology in transforming rehabilitation and therapy practices to enhance patient outcomes through immersive and interactive treatment methods. VR's immersive and customizable experiences address the shortcomings of traditional rehabilitation methods by providing highly customizable therapy sessions that improve patient engagement and motivation through the simulation of real-world environments. These virtual experiences can be tailored to individual therapeutic needs, making rehabilitation more dynamic and personalized. A comprehensive SWOT analysis highlights significant strengths, such as high customization and real-time data collection, while addressing challenges like initial costs and the need for specialized technical expertise to implement and maintain these advanced systems. Opportunities in the expanding VR healthcare market are balanced against threats from competition, rapid technological changes, and regulatory issues that may affect adoption. The findings support the adoption of VR for significant improvements in rehabilitation outcomes, suggesting that the benefits of enhanced patient compliance and motivation outweigh the initial barriers. The proposal recommends actionable strategic steps for integrating VR into rehabilitation programs, including building partnerships with healthcare providers to facilitate adoption and securing potential insurance coverage to make these technologies more accessible to patients. By leveraging VR technology, the rehabilitation process can become more dynamic and efficient, ultimately fostering better recovery and long-term health benefits for patients. This innovative approach not only addresses the current limitations of traditional rehabilitation methods but also paves the way for future advancements in therapeutic practices, ensuring that rehabilitation and therapy continue to evolve with technological progress.
Automated Playtest and Crash Analyzer (APCA): An AI that Playtests Video Games to Detect Bugs and Potential Crashes
Authors: Miller David
Published: December 2024

A vital phase in videogame development is playtesting, to provide actual user feedback to the current state of the game. Given that playtesting requires a suitable player base, these playtest can be very expensive. On top of that, with bugs bound to be present in games, especially at earlier development phases, these could skew the focus of playtesting sessions. The Automated Playtest and Crash Analyzer (APCA) offers an AI playtester to play video games in development to detect bugs and potential crash cases before playtesting with real players. Utilizing APCA, would prevent the carefully selected focuses of playtesting sessions diverting towards bug detection and fixing. The consideration of these situational factors would allow us to provide knowledge of our communication process in order to maintain a relationship (Olkkonen et al. 405). Public relations will be managed as the means to distribute awareness, manage our relationships, and maintain and improve our reputation (Grunig qtd. in Irawan et al. 697). To create and maintain these relations, we will communicate with simple, focused, respectful, and relaxed language (Gasimova and Huseynova 9). This proposal will utilize a SWOT analysis to showcase what inherit strengths this idea merits as well as the possible opportunities it could open up. By employing this AI before human players, developers can have more efficient and focused playtests with low risks of derailment due to bugs.
Reframing Global Health Governance: BRICS Impact on South Africa's Pandemic Response and the Evolution of International Health Frameworks
Authors: Akbar Khalida
Published: December 2024

This paper offers an analysis of the transformative roles undertaken by BRICS nations, with a specific focus on South Africa, in redefining the landscape of global health governance during pandemics. Set against the backdrop of post-Cold War and post-9/11 dynamics, the study elucidates the evolution from traditional to more inclusive health security paradigms. It investigates how BRICS+ countries, including South Africa, have actively contributed to reshaping global health governance, transcending conventional institutional frameworks, especially evident in responses to crises like COVID-19, SARS, and MERS. Employing a multi-faceted approach drawing on case studies, policy analyses, and empirical evidence, this research assesses the strategies, collaborations, and policy interventions employed by South Africa within the broader BRICS+ framework to combat transnational health challenges. It examines the significance, effectiveness, limitations, and future potential of these initiatives in advancing a more adaptable and participatory global health governance architecture. Specifically, it delves into South Africa's unique role as a BRICS+ member, considering its diplomatic engagements, policy contributions, and regional leadership in fostering a collective approach to global health crises. Additionally, the paper explores the implications of these collaborative endeavors on the evolving international health landscape and highlights the imperative for sustained cooperation, innovation, and inclusivity in global health governance frameworks. Through this examination, this paper aims to provide insights into the dynamics shaping the contemporary discourse on health diplomacy and the collective response to global health challenges within the South African context and the broader BRICS+ framework.
Samuel García
Authors: Ivett Requena Hernández Alejandra , Valdez Vega Orlando
Published: December 2024

A partir de la identificación de las actividades de imagen (Hernández, 2013) y las actividades de descortesía verbal (Kaul de Marlangeon, 2017) en el discurso de precampaña del excandidato a la presidencia mexicana, y actual gobernador de Nuevo León (México), Samuel García, se analizó e interpretó el modelo de discurso institucional del noreste de México actual. A través del análisis de diversos materiales audiovisuales, fue posible comprender las especificidades discursivas utilizadas en el discurso de Samuel García, con el objetivo de ganar simpatizantes para la futura contienda electoral. Al optar por el uso de actos descorteses, Samuel García centró mayormente su discurso como precandidato en atacar y destruir la imagen de sus adversarios como un mecanismo de defensa ante las supuestas amenazas recibidas durante este período. Centrándose en el uso de actos de fustigación, Samuel García enfoca su discurso en desarmar a todos aquellos que están en contra de su partido, Movimiento Ciudadano, a través de redes sociales y actos públicos.
Pandemic Mobilities, Livelihood Disruptions, and Food Insecurities among Eastern Cape Migrants in Cape Town and Johannesburg during COVID-19
Authors:   Wilfrid Laurier University, Crush Jonathan ,   University of the Western Cape, Tawodzera Godfrey , Salamone Maria , Ahmed Zack ,   Balsillie School of International Affairs
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on internal migrants from the Eastern Cape in the cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa, with a focus on mobility restrictions, livelihood disruptions, and food insecurity. Methodologically, the paper draws on a survey of 1,733 migrant households in the two cities conducted in 2023 and identifies significant economic hardships and increased food insecurity among internal migrants during the pandemic. Findings reveal that the pandemic exacerbated vulnerabilities, with many migrants experiencing job losses, reduced remittances, and heightened food insecurity. The paper underscores the need to differentiate between internal and international migrants in policy responses in times of crisis to ensure targeted support for the most affected populations.
South Sudanese Urban Youth Refugees in Kenya: Policy Response
Authors:   University of the Fraser Valley, Enns Cherie , Owuor Samuel ,   University of Nairobi, Lin Abbey , Swardh Kristin ,   Toronto Metropolitan University, Kolong William ,   Pan Aweil Development Society
Published: December 2024

This study analyzes the experiences of urban refugee communities, precisely the challenges young South Sudanese refugees living in Kenya face. We divert from the comprehensive examination of refugees in camps to focus on urban youth amidst Kenya’s refugee policy changes and the COVID-19 pandemic. With the support of South Sudanese community leaders, our study engaged 41 participants (aged 19-32) who had recently relocated to Nairobi or Nakuru, Kenya. Participants engaged in semi-structured discussions about food security and other daily challenges related to their urban refugee experience. This study draws on postcolonial feminist theory to contextualize the gender-specific dimensions of food insecurity, centering analysis in discussing historical power structures, migration patterns, urbanism theory and geopolitical influences contributing to the experiences of South Sudanese urban youth refugees in Kenya. Study participants, irrespective of location, encountered corruption, limiting policies, and conflicting identity formation, with women specifically highlighting self-identity, dignity, and family as critical to supporting their resilience. Participants emphasized the impact of COVID-19 on community cohesion, particularly in shared meals. However, their agency was hindered by movement restrictions, invisible fences, or barriers exacerbated by unequal support and aid distribution. The research advocates for the formulation of clear African contextualized urban-based policies and migration systems that prioritize the needs of urban refugees to safeguard their rights and uphold human dignity. Collaborative engagement with all stakeholders within local communities—especially youth refugees—is necessary to develop effective urban policies that promote stability, economic advancement, and social integration.
Escenarios futuros del turismo de naturaleza en el departamento del Quindío, Colombia
Authors: Guzmán Díaz Beatriz Elena , Tarapuez Chamorro Edwin , Aristizábal Tamayo Juan Manuel
Published: December 2024

El turismo en el Quindío ha representado una alternativa de generación de empleo e ingresos durante las últimas dos décadas, sin embargo, pese a esfuerzos realizados por los actores sociales falta sinergia para su fortalecimiento y contribución al desarrollo socioeconómico local, además, con la pandemia del Covid-19 este sector tuvo una fuerte afectación y lenta recuperación. El estudio busca identificar escenarios futuros del turismo de naturaleza en el departamento del Quindío; esta investigación es de tipo correlacional, exploratoria y descriptiva, la metodología es cualitativa y cuantitativa, se realizaron talleres con representantes de la universidad, empresa, estado y sociedad. Los métodos de prospectiva estratégica utilizados fueron análisis estructural, análisis morfológico, ejes de Schwartz, ábaco de Regnier, sistema de matrices de impacto cruzado, e importancia y gobernabilidad, por último, se identificaron escenarios futuros, eligiendo el más pertinente y proponiendo estrategias para alcanzarlo.
La RSE en la gestión de la identidad de marca en medianas y grandes empresas en Manizales, Colombia
Authors: Alzate Sanz Jaime Eduardo , Orozco Toro Jaime Alberto
Published: December 2024

Este artículo analiza la forma en que tres empresas colombianas gestionan su identidad mediante labores de Responsabilidad Social Empresarial, desde una concepción estratégica de emisión y vínculo con los stakeholders. Desde la perspectiva teórica se abordan los conceptos de identidad, imagen de marca, así como la comunicación y la Responsabilidad Social Empresarial. En la metodología se emplearon entrevistas semiestructuradas a 9 profesionales vinculados con tres empresas objeto de estudio, en donde se indagó sobre la forma en que estas empresas gestionan su identidad y la comunicación de marca mediante las acciones de Responsabilidad Social Empresarial. Los resultados y conclusiones demuestran que aunque la gestión de la identidad es un tema muy importante para las empresas, no tienen en cuenta en esta labor las acciones de Responsabilidad Social Empresarial.
Solving the Power Flow Problem in Transmission Networks Using Nonlinear complex-domain Modeling Via Julia Software
Authors: Montoya Oscar Danilo , Rivas-Trujillo Edwin , Gil-González Walter
Published: December 2024

Solving the power flow problem for transmission grids is crucial for ensuring the reliable and efficient operation of electrical power systems. Power flow analysis allows engineers to determine the voltage, current, and power flow of a network, which is essential for maintaining system stability and avoiding overloads.
Sleeve Gastrectomy Improved TGF-β and IL-10 Expression in Obesity and Diabetes Mellitus Rats
Authors: Mukti Sindhu Nugroho , Prasetyo Sigit Adi , Shobirin Muhammad Ali , Rozy Abdul Mughni , Prajoko Yan Wisnu , Sagap Ismail Bin
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Atherosclerosis is a cardiovascular disease which is the leading cause of 16% of the world's total deaths. The main comorbidities of atherosclerosis are obesity and diabetes mellitus. One of obesity surgery treatment that is currently very often used is the Sleeve Gastrectomy. Sleeve Gastrectomy is the most effective and significant long-term therapy for weight loss and preventing various comorbidities such as heart disease. This study analyze the effect of sleeve gastrectomy on the expression of atherosclerosis anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β and IL-10) in the abdominal aorta on the process of atherosclerosis in obesity and diabetes mellitus subjects.Methods: An in vivo laboratory experimental study with post-test control group design on 15 male rats (Sprague Dawley) that was randomly divided into 3 groups: K1 (negative control), K2 (positive control with obesity and diabetes mellitus) and P1 (obese and DM rats treated with sleeve gastrectomy). After 10th day of the procedure, we analyze the body weight, fasting blood glucose, and gene expression of TGF-β and IL-10 using the PCR method. Statistical analysis was done using Anova, Kruskal Wallis and Post Hoc LSD.Results: There was significant decrease in body weight (p=0,000) and fasting blood sugar levels (p=0,000) in the P1 compared to the K2. There was significant increase of TGF-β (p = 0,005) and IL-10 (p = 0,002) gene expression in P1 compared to K1 and K2.Conclusion: SG decreased body weight and fasting blood sugar levels of obese and DM subjects. Also improved the expression of atherosclerosis anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β and IL-10) in abdominal aorta.
Extraction of Natural Colorant from Clitoria ternatea Flowers Using Conventional Solvent Extraction (CSE) and Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE) Techniques: Kinetic Modeling and Compound Stability
Authors: Mustika Pra Cipta Buana Wahyu , Priyantini Hadiyatni Rita , Krisna Eryan Dwi , Aldani Firman , Sawali Fikrah Dian Indrawati , Afandy Moh Azhar , Mustikaningrum Mega
Published: December 2024

The Clitoria ternatea flowers, a prevalent local commodity in Indonesia, are extensively found, particularly in the East Java region. One approach to enhance the utility and economic significance of these flowers involves isolating their active component, specifically anthocyanin. Anthocyanins have several health benefits, especially in preventing cardiovascular disease, improving vision, and being anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer. The isolation methods used in this research were conventional solvent extraction (CSE) and ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UEA) methods. The use of UAE has been experimentally proven to accelerate the extraction rate of bioactive compounds. This dal is caused by a driving force in the form of energy produced from bubble cavitation resulting from ultrasonic energy. The specific aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the two methods in anthocyanin isolation. The extraction stages were carried out at 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70°C operating temperatures, with an S/L ratio of 1:10, 1:15, 1:20:1:25, and 1:30 with samples conditioned in dry and wet conditions. The optimal conditions for ultrasound-assisted extraction (UEA) involve dry samples with a S/L ratio of 1:30 at a temperature of 70°C with the resulting final concentration of 16.5234 g/L. This configuration ensures an efficient extraction process, completed in less than 30 minutes, thereby preventing the degradation of anthocyanins. Analysis indicates that the extraction process adheres to a second-order kinetic model with a constant (k) of 0.1039. Stability testing revealed that the first–order kinetic model accurately represents the impact of temperature on anthocyanin degradation.