bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A dynamic calcium-force relationship model for sag behavior in fast skeletal muscle
Authors: Kim Hojeong , Heckman Charles J.
Published: June 2023

In vitro studies using isolated or skinned muscle fibers suggest that the sigmoidal relationship between the intracellular calcium concentration and force production may depend upon muscle type and activity. The goal of this study was to investigate whether and how the calcium-force relationship changes during force production under physiological conditions of muscle excitation and length in fast skeletal muscles. A computational framework was developed to identify the dynamic variation in the calcium-force relationship during force generation over a full physiological range of stimulation frequencies and muscle lengths in cat gastrocnemius muscles. In contrast to the situation in slow muscles such as the soleus, the calcium concentration for the half-maximal force needed to drift rightward to reproduce the progressive force decline, or sag behavior, observed during unfused isometric contractions at the intermediate length under low-frequency stimulation (i.e., 20 Hz). The slope at the calcium concentration for the half-maximal force was required to drift upward for force enhancement during unfused isometric contractions at the intermediate length under high-frequency stimulation (i.e., 40 Hz). The slope variation in the calcium–force relationship played a crucial role in shaping sag behavior across different muscle lengths. The muscle model with dynamic variations in the calcium-force relationship also accounted for the length-force and velocity-force properties measured under full excitation. These results imply that the calcium sensitivity and cooperativity of force-inducing crossbridge formation between actin and myosin filaments may be operationally altered in accordance with the mode of neural excitation and muscle movement in intact fast muscles.
Secure and defensive forms of national identity and public support for climate policies
Authors: Cislak Aleksandra , Wójcik Adrian D. , Borkowska Julia , Milfont Taciano L.
Published: June 2023

The European Union currently aims to achieve fossil fuels independence and to become the first climate-neutral continent by endorsing the Green Deal policy agenda. In this work, we focus on the role of secure and defensive forms of national identity in shaping citizens’ readiness to support versus oppose public policies aimed at climate neutrality and support for sources of energy perceived as traditional and non-traditional. Namely, we distinguish between national narcissism, which is a belief that one’s national group is exceptional and deserves external recognition underlain by unsatisfied psychological needs, and secure national identification, which reflects feelings of strong bonds and solidarity with one’s ingroup members, and sense of satisfaction in group membership. We hypothesize that in contrast to secure national identification, national narcissism, due to its motivational underpinnings, is related negatively to support for climate-change mitigating solutions. In Study 1 (N = 1134), we show that while secure national identity is positively related to support for developing renewable sources of energy and the Green Deal policy agenda, national narcissism is positively related to support for fossil fuel energy (and vice versa). In Study 2 (N = 1016), we found that allocating funds for reinforcing the green image of a country goes hand in hand with the support for policies aimed at mitigating climate change among those high in national narcissism. We put these findings in perspective by discussing the role of national narratives around the traditional sources of energy in shaping support for climate change mitigating policies.
Safe infant feeding in healthcare facilities: Assessment of infection prevention and control conditions and behaviors in India, Malawi, and Tanzania
Authors: Caruso Bethany A. , Paniagua Uriel , Hoffman Irving , Manji Karim , Saidi Friday , Sudfeld Christopher R. , Vernekar Sunil S. , Bakari Mohamed , Duggan Christopher P. , Kibogoyo George C. , Kisenge Rodrick , Somji Sarah , Kafansiyanji Eddah , Mvalo Tisungane , Nyirenda Naomie , Phiri Melda , Bellad Roopa , Dhaded Sangappa , K. A. Chaya , Koppad Bhavana , Nabapure Shilpa , Nanda Saumya , Singh Bipsa , Yogeshkumar S. , Fleming Katelyn , North Krysten , Tuller Danielle E. , Semrau Katherine E. A. , Vesel Linda , Young Melissa F. ,   for the LIFE Study Group
Published: June 2023

Infants need to receive care in environments that limit their exposure to pathogens. Inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) environments and suboptimal infection prevention and control practices in healthcare settings contribute to the burden of healthcare-associated infections, which are particularly high in low-income settings. Specific research is needed to understand infant feeding preparation in healthcare settings, a task involving multiple behaviors that can introduce pathogens and negatively impact health. To understand feeding preparation practices and potential risks, and to inform strategies for improvement, we assessed facility WASH environments and observed infant feeding preparation practices across 12 facilities in India, Malawi, and Tanzania serving newborn infants. Research was embedded within the Low Birthweight Infant Feeding Exploration (LIFE) observational cohort study, which documented feeding practices and growth patterns to inform feeding interventions. We assessed WASH-related environments and feeding policies of all 12 facilities involved in the LIFE study. Additionally, we used a guidance-informed tool to carry out 27 feeding preparation observations across 9 facilities, enabling assessment of 270 total behaviors. All facilities had ‘improved’ water and sanitation services. Only 50% had written procedures for preparing expressed breastmilk; 50% had written procedures for cleaning, drying, and storage of infant feeding implements; and 33% had written procedures for preparing infant formula. Among 270 behaviors assessed across the 27 feeding preparation observations, 46 (17.0%) practices were carried out sub-optimally, including preparers not handwashing prior to preparation, and cleaning, drying, and storing of feeding implements in ways that do not effectively prevent contamination. While further research is needed to improve assessment tools and to identify specific microbial risks of the suboptimal behaviors identified, the evidence generated is sufficient to justify investment in developing guidance and programing to strengthen infant feeding preparation practices to ensure optimal newborn health.
Nationwide and long-term epidemiological research of snakebite envenomation in Taiwan during 2002–2014 based on the use of snake antivenoms: A study utilizing National Health Insurance Database
Authors: Hsu Jen-Yu , Chiang Shu-O , Yang Chen-Chang , Hsieh Tan-Wen , Chung Chi-Jung , Mao Yan-Chiao
Published: June 2023

Introduction

In Taiwan, six venomous snake species with medical importance have been found; however, long-term epidemiological data of snakebite envenomation (SBE) is lacking. This study aimed to explore the epidemiology of SBE based on the distribution and use of different antivenoms in different parts of Taiwan to facilitate the development of prevention strategies and resource allocation.

Methods and results

This retrospective study was conducted using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database from 2002 to 2014. A total of 12,542 patients were treated with antivenoms. The directly standardized cumulative incidence was 3.6 cases per 100,000 individuals based on the 2000 World Standard Population. The incidence of SBEs peaked in the summer (35.9%). The relative risk (RR) of male patients versus female patients was 2.5 (p< 0.0001). The RRs of patients aged 18–64 and ≥65 years versus those aged <18 years were 6.0 (p< 0.0001) and 14.3 (p< 0.0001), respectively. Furthermore, the RR of eastern Taiwan versus northern Taiwan was 6.8 (p< 0.0001). The RR of agricultural workers versus laborers was 5.5 (p< 0.0001). Compared with patients envenomed byTrimeresurus stejnegeri stejnegeriorProtobothrops mucrosquamatus, those envenomed byNaja atraorBungarus multicinctus multicinctuswere more likely to occur in central (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.6,p< 0.0001) or southern (aOR = 3.2,p< 0.0001) Taiwan, but less frequently among agricultural workers (aOR = 0.6,p< 0.0001). The overall case-fatality rate was 0.11%.

Conclusions

Among Asian countries, Taiwan had low incidence and case-fatality rates of SBE. Risk factors included male gender, old age, summer season, being in eastern Taiwan, and being an agricultural worker. Differences of the epidemiological findings between snake species should be focused on when developing strategies for snakebite prevention.
Construction enterprises’ green financing efficiency and its influencing factors including internal and external: Based on four-stage DEA model
Authors: Yu Yaguai , Shen Panyi , Yan Yina , Ni Taohan , Chen Fangyuan
Published: June 2023

Under the background of carbon neutrality, green development is the theme of today’s times. The construction industry is an important part of the green development plan, and it is of great significance to study its green financing efficiency. Based on this, this paper uses the four-stage DEA model to explore the green financing efficiency of listed construction companies from 2019 to 2020. The conclusion shows that: firstly, the green financing efficiency of listed construction companies is low, and the demand for green financing has not been met. It is necessary to strengthen the support of green finance to meet the needs of its expansion. Secondly, the efficiency of green financing is significantly and complexly affected by external influencing factors. It is necessary to dialectically treat external influencing factors such as local industry development support, financial development level, and the number of patent authorizations. Thirdly, among the internal influencing factors, the proportion of independent directors has a significant positive impact on the green financing efficiency of listed construction companies, and the proportion of R&D investment has a significant negative impact. Listed construction companies need to increase the proportion of independent directors and control the proportion of R&D investment.
Impact of emergency medical service with advanced life support training for adults with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the Republic of Korea: A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Ahn Jae Yun , Ryoo Hyun Wook , Jung Haewon , Ro Young Sun , Park Jeong Ho
Published: June 2023

Prehospital advanced life support (ALS) has been offered in many countries for patients experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA); however, its effectiveness remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the impact of emergency medical service (EMS) with ALS training as a nationwide pilot project for adults with OHCA in the Republic of Korea. This retrospective multicenter observational study was conducted between July 2019 and December 2020 using the Korean Cardiac Arrest Research Consortium registry. The patients were categorized into an intervention group that received EMS with ALS training and a control group that did not receive EMS with ALS training. Conditional logistic regression analysis was performed using matched data to compare clinical outcomes between the two groups. Compared with the control group, the intervention group had a lower rate of supraglottic airway usage (60.5% vs. 75.6%) and a higher rate of undergoing endotracheal intubation (21.7% vs. 6.1%, P < 0.001). In addition, the intervention group was administered more intravenous epinephrine (59.8% vs. 14.2%, P < 0.001) and used mechanical chest compression devices more frequently in prehospital settings than the control group (59.0% vs. 23.8%, P < 0.001). Based on the results of multivariable conditional logistic regression analysis, survival to hospital discharge (odds ratio: 0.48, 95% confidence interval: 0.27–0.87) of the intervention group was significantly lower than that of the control group; however, good neurological outcome was not significantly different between the two groups. In this study, survival to hospital discharge was worse in patients with OHCA who received EMS with ALS training than in those who did not.
Postoperative mortality analysis on nationwide data from diagnosis procedure combination database in Japan
Authors: Kunisawa Susumu
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The present study aimed to investigate the postoperative mortality due to all surgeries at the prefectural level using a nationwide diagnosis procedure combination (DPC) database in Japan and to evaluate the data according to temporal changes and regional differences.

Methods

Data were provided in accordance with the guidelines indicated on the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, Japan. The number of cases and in-hospital mortality were calculated for each representative surgery for each hospitalization according to fiscal year of discharge from 2011 to 2018 and according to prefecture. Values of ≥10 in each aggregated data cell were presented.

Results and discussion

The aggregated result data contain 474,154 records, with about 2,000 different surgical codes. More than 10 mortalities were recorded in only 16,890 data cells, which can be used in the mortality analysis. In the analyses of artificial head insertion, cerebral aneurysm neck clipping, coronary artery and aortic bypass grafting, and tracheotomy, regional differences and a declining trend were observed in some categories.

Conclusion

In addition to considering categories that can be used in the analysis, careful consideration must be given to the inclusion of background context such as the quality of care.
Placental pathology reports: A qualitative study in a US university hospital setting on perceived clinical utility and areas for improvement
Authors: Gallagher Kelly , Aruma Jane-Frances C. , Oji-Mmuo Christiana N. , Pauli Jaimey M. , Curtin William M. , Goldstein Jeffery A. , Stuckey Heather L. , Gernand Alison D.
Published: June 2023

Objective

To explore how placental pathology is currently used by clinicians and what placental information would be most useful in the immediate hours after delivery.

Study design

We used a qualitative study design to conduct in-depth, semi-structured interviews with obstetric and neonatal clinicians who provide delivery or postpartum care at an academic medical center in the US (n = 19). Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

Results

Clinicians valued placental pathology information yet cited multiple barriers that prevent the consistent use of pathology. Four main themes were identified. First, the placenta is sent to pathology for consistent reasons, however, the pathology report is accessed by clinicians inconsistently due to key barriers: difficult to find in the electronic medical record, understand, and get quickly. Second, clinicians value placental pathology for explanatory capability as well as for contributions to current and future care, particularly when there is fetal growth restriction, stillbirth, or antibiotic use. Third, a rapid placental exam (specifically including placental weight, infection, infarction, and overall assessment) would be helpful in providing clinical care. Fourth, placental pathology reports that connect clinically relevant findings (similar to radiology) and that are written with plain, standardized language and that non-pathologists can more readily understand are preferred.

Conclusion

Placental pathology is important to clinicians that care for mothers and newborns (particularly those that are critically ill) after birth, yet many problems stand in the way of its usefulness. Hospital administrators, perinatal pathologists, and clinicians should work together to improve access to and contents of reports. Support for new methods to provide quick placenta information is warranted.
Transport of pilgrims during Hajj: Evidence from a discrete event simulation study
Authors: Owaidah Almoaid , Olaru Doina , Bennamoun Mohammed , Sohel Ferdous , Khan Nazim
Published: June 2023

Hajj, the Muslim pilgrimage, is a large mass gathering event that involves performing rituals at several sites on specific days and times in a fixed order, thereby requiring transport of pilgrims between sites. For the past two decades, Hajj transport has relied on conventional and shuttle buses, train services, and pilgrims walking along pedestrian routes that link these sites. To ensure smooth and efficient transport during Hajj, specific groups of pilgrims are allocated with the cooperation of Hajj authorities to specific time windows, modes, and routes. However, the large number of pilgrims, delays and changes in bus schedules/timetables, and occasional lack of coordination between transport modes have often caused congestion or delays in pilgrim transfer between sites, with a cascading effect on transport management. This study focuses on modelling and simulating the transport of pilgrims between the sites using a discrete event simulation tool called “ExtendSim”. Three transport modules were validated, and different scenarios were developed. These scenarios consider changes in the percentages of pilgrims allocated to each transport mode and the scheduling of various modes. The results can aid authorities to make informed decisions regarding transport strategies for managing the transport infrastructure and fleets. The proposed solutions could be implemented with judicious allocation of resources, through pre-event planning and real-time monitoring during the event.
Transactional sex among women in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mihretie Gedefaye Nibret , Kassa Bekalu Getnet , Ayele Alemu Degu , Liyeh Tewachew Muche , Belay Habtamu Gebrehana , Miskr Agernesh Dereje , Minuye Binyam , Azanaw Melkalem Mamuye , Worke Mulugeta Dile
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Transactional sex is casual sex between two people to receive material incentives in exchange for sexual favors. Transactional sex is associated with negative consequences, which increase the risk of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS, unintended pregnancy, unsafe abortion, and physiological trauma. In Sub-Saharan Africa, several primary studies have been conducted in various countries to examine the prevalence and associated factors of transactional sex among women. These studies had great discrepancies and inconsistent results. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize the pooled prevalence of the practice of transactional sex among women and its associated factors in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Method

Data source: PubMed, Google Scholar, HINARI, the Cochrane Library, and grey literature were searched from March 6 to April 24, 2022, and included studies conducted from 2000 to 2022. The pooled prevalence of transactional sex and associated factors was estimated using Random Effect Model. Stata (version 16.0) was used to analyze the data. The I-squared statistic, a funnel plot, and Egger’s test were used to check for heterogeneity and publication bias, respectively. A subgroup analysis was done based on the study years, source of data, sample sizes, and geographical location.

Results

The pooled prevalence of transactional sex among women in Sub-Saharan Africa was 12.55% (9.59%–15.52%). Early sexual debut (OR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.56, 4.27), substance abuse (OR = 4.62, 95% CI: 2.62, 8.08), history of sexual experience (OR = 4.87, 95% CI: 2.37, 10.02), physical violence abuse (OR = 6.70, 95% CI: 3.32, 13.53), orphanhood (OR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.27, 3.47), and sexual violence abuse (OR = 3.76, 95% CI: 1.08, 13.05) were significantly associated with transactional sex.

Conclusion

The prevalence of transactional sex among women in sub-Saharan Africa was high. Alcohol consumption, substance abuse, early sex debuts, having a history of sexual experiences, physical violence, and sexual violence increased the practice of transactional sex.
Understanding mental health trends during COVID-19 pandemic in the United States using network analysis
Authors: Kobayashi Hiroko , Saenz-Escarcega Raul , Fulk Alexander , Agusto Folashade B.
Published: June 2023

The emergence of COVID-19 in the United States resulted in a series of federal and state-level lock-downs and COVID-19 related health mandates to manage the spread of the virus. These policies may negatively impact the mental health state of the population. This study focused on the trends in mental health indicators following the COVID-19 pandemic amongst four United States geographical regions, and political party preferences. Indicators of interest included feeling anxious, feeling depressed, and worried about finances. Survey data from the Delphi Group at Carnegie Mellon University were analyzed using clustering algorithms and dynamic connectome obtained from sliding window analysis. Connectome refers to the description of connectivity on a network. United States maps were generated to observe spatial trends and identify communities with similar mental health and COVID-19 trends. Between March 3rd, 2021, and January 10th, 2022, states in the southern geographic region showed similar trends for reported values of feeling anxious and worried about finances. There were no identifiable communities resembling geographical regions or political party preference for the feeling depressed indicator. We observed a high degree of correlation among southern states as well as within Republican states, where the highest correlation values from the dynamic connectome for feeling anxious and feeling depressed variables seemingly overlapped with an increase in COVID-19 related cases, deaths, hospitalizations, and rapid spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant.
Cohort profile: ORICAMs, a French cohort of medical workers exposed to low-dose ionizing radiation
Authors: Lopes Julie , Baudin Clémence , Feuardent Juliette , Roy Hervé , Caër-Lorho Sylvaine , Leuraud Klervi , Bernier Marie-Odile
Published: June 2023

Medical personnel represent the largest group of workers occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation. Although the health risks associated with occupational exposure to low doses of ionizing radiation in the medical field have been investigated in several national cohorts, no study has been conducted in France to date. The ORICAMs (Occupational Radiation Induced Cancer in Medical staff) cohort is a nationwide French longitudinal cohort of medical workers exposed to ionizing radiation aiming to investigate the risk of radiation-associated cancer and non-cancer mortality. The ORICAMs cohort was set up in 2011 and includes all medical personnel monitored for ionizing radiation exposure with at least one dosimetric record in the SISERI database (the national registry for monitoring ionizing radiation exposure in workers) over the period 2002–2012. Causes of death were abstracted from death certificates and coded according to ICD-10. The follow-up ended on 31/12/2013. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated by cause of death to compare the mortality in the cohort to that in the French population, by gender, age group and calendar period. Among the 164,015 workers included in the cohort (60% women) a total of 1,358 deaths (892 in male and 466 in female) were reported. The observed number of all-cause deaths was significantly lower than expected based on national rates in both male (SMR = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.33, 0.38; ndeaths = 892) and female (SMR = 0.41; 95% CI: 0.38, 0.45; ndeaths = 466). This analysis leads to the conclusion that mortality in French workers exposed to medical radiation is significantly lower than the national reference rates. However, these results based on a comparative analysis with national rates may be impacted by the healthy worker effect towards low SMRs, and do not enable to establish a potential relationship between occupational exposure and mortality risk, even if we may suspect an impact of high SES of these professionals on the observed decreased mortality. Thus, further dose-response analyses based on individual ionizing radiation exposure and job’s type will be conducted to characterize correlation between risk of cancer mortality and occupational exposure.
Genome-wide phage susceptibility analysis in Acinetobacter baumannii reveals capsule modulation strategies that determine phage infectivity
Authors: Bai Jinna , Raustad Nicole , Denoncourt Jason , van Opijnen Tim , Geisinger Edward
Published: June 2023

Phage have gained renewed interest as an adjunctive treatment for life-threatening infections with the resistant nosocomial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii. Our understanding of how A. baumannii defends against phage remains limited, although this information could lead to improved antimicrobial therapies. To address this problem, we identified genome-wide determinants of phage susceptibility in A. baumannii using Tn-seq. These studies focused on the lytic phage Loki, which targets Acinetobacter by unknown mechanisms. We identified 41 candidate loci that increase susceptibility to Loki when disrupted, and 10 that decrease susceptibility. Combined with spontaneous resistance mapping, our results support the model that Loki uses the K3 capsule as an essential receptor, and that capsule modulation provides A. baumannii with strategies to control vulnerability to phage. A key center of this control is transcriptional regulation of capsule synthesis and phage virulence by the global regulator BfmRS. Mutations hyperactivating BfmRS simultaneously increase capsule levels, Loki adsorption, Loki replication, and host killing, while BfmRS-inactivating mutations have the opposite effect, reducing capsule and blocking Loki infection. We identified novel BfmRS-activating mutations, including knockouts of a T2 RNase protein and the disulfide formation enzyme DsbA, that hypersensitize bacteria to phage challenge. We further found that mutation of a glycosyltransferase known to alter capsule structure and bacterial virulence can also cause complete phage resistance. Finally, additional factors including lipooligosaccharide and Lon protease act independently of capsule modulation to interfere with Loki infection. This work demonstrates that regulatory and structural modulation of capsule, known to alter A. baumannii virulence, is also a major determinant of susceptibility to phage.
The potential for nature-based solutions to combat the freshwater biodiversity crisis
Authors: van Rees Charles B. , Jumani Suman , Abera Liya , Rack Laura , McKay S. Kyle , Wenger Seth J.
Published: June 2023

Enthusiasm for and investments in nature-based solutions (NBS) as sustainable strategies for climate adaptation and infrastructure development is building among governments, the scientific community, and engineering practitioners. This is particularly true for water security and water-related risks. In a freshwater context, NBS may provide much-needed “win-wins” for society and the environment that could benefit imperiled freshwater biodiversity. Such conservation benefits are urgently needed given the ongoing freshwater biodiversity crisis, with declines in freshwater species and their habitats occurring at more than twice the rate of marine or terrestrial systems. However, for NBS to make meaningful contributions to safeguarding freshwater biodiversity, clear links must be established between NBS applications and priorities for conservation. In this paper, we link common water-related NBS to six priority actions for freshwater life established by the conservation science n community, and highlight priority research and knowledge that will be necessary to bring NBS to bear on the freshwater biodiversity crisis. In particular, we illustrate how NBS can play a direct role in restoring degraded aquatic and floodplain ecosystems, enhancing in-stream water quality, and improving hydrological connectivity among freshwater ecosystems. System-level monitoring is needed to ensure that freshwater NBS deliver on their promised benefits for ecosystems and species.
Derechos humanos a debate: estrategias de resistencia de los afectados por las represas hidroeléctricas
Authors: Morem Rocha Luíza , Giongo Carmem Regina , Soares Teixeira Menezes Jessica Mabel , Rosa Mendes Jussara Maria
Published: June 2023

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo discutir las interfaces entre los Derechos humanos y el contexto de las represas hidroeléctricas de Itá, Alzir do Santos y Foz do Chapecó, localizadas en el sur de Brasil, a través de un análisis de las estrategias de resistencia de las comunidades afectadas. La metodología utilizada fue exploratoria descriptiva, de cuño cualitativo, con entrevistas a 26 personas. Los datos fueron recogidos a partir de un cuestionario biosociodemográfico, entrevistas narrativas y análisis documental y, posteriormente, sometidos a un análisis matemático. Los resultados muestran que la violación de los Derechos humanos es resultado de la negligencia del Estado, de la inexistencia de una política nacional de derechos de los afectados por la represas, de la desresponsabilización de las empresas del sector eléctrico brasileño y de la falta de servicios públicos que atiendan las necesidades de esa población. Por su parte, las estrategias de resistencia de los afectados pasan por la concienciación política de las comunidades, la organización en movimientos sociales y las manifestaciones reivindicativas de derechos.
Conflictos ambientales en la Zona Rural II de São Luís (Maranhão, Brasil): investigación de la actuación de las empresas a partir del análisis de informes de sostenibilidad (2006-2015)
Authors: Santos de Jesus Sbrana Tayanná
Published: June 2023

En este artículo analizamos los informes de sostenibilidad de Vale S.A. y Alcoa / Alumar correspondientes al período 2006-2015, para comprender las formas en que los agentes empresariales actúan en situaciones de conflicto con las comunidades tradicionales. Como microenfoque, abordamos el conflicto ambiental entre empresas, gobiernos y comunidades que se ha producido desde mediados de la década de 1990 en la Zona Rural II de São Luís-MA, derivado de la intrusión de emprendimientos en territorios de comunidades tradicionales que, desde entonces, han estado exigiendo la implementación de una unidad de conservación, la Reserva Extractiva de Tauá-Mirim. La metodología adoptada fue el análisis del discurso en perspectiva comparada, teniendo como principales resultados: a) la observación de una forma de actuación integral de los agentes empresariales en diferentes localizaciones en conflicto a partir de experiencias y adecuación a las normas ambientales vigentes; b) la activación de conceptos clave como el desarrollo y la sostenibilidad en la legitimación de las acciones de las empresas, presentes en los informes; y c) informes de sostenibilidad como documentos de rendición de cuentas para los accionistas y la sociedad civil y de publicidad de la eficacia de las acciones destinadas a promover el desarrollo y la sostenibilidad en los lugares donde actúan, en contraposición a los procesos reivindicativos comunitarios.
THE INVISIBLE HAND PROGRAM BY PT PERTAMINA MOR IV TO EDUCATE AND INCREASE PUBLIC AWARENESS ON SUBSIDIZED 3KG LPG
Authors: Wulandari Trishna Dewi , Nuraniwati Tri
Published: June 2023

This study explores the Invisible Hand, a cyber public relations program conducted by the Communication, Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility Unit of PT Pertamina (Persero) MOR IV to educate and to increase public awareness on the provision of subsidized 3Kg LPG in Central Java dan Yogyakarta Special Region. Originally intended for lower income households and micro-small businesses, the subsidized LPG is also enjoyed by higher income households and businesses which result in the scarcity of the LPG. PT Pertamina (Persero) MOR IV held the Invisible Hand program by using other parties’ media to promote their mission. This study applied a qualitative research method by conducting participatory observation, interview and questionnaire for its data collection. It indicated that the Invisible Hand program was implemented through two strategies: social media campaigns and media relations. The social media campaigns were promoted by paid promotion through popular local Instagram accounts in Central Java and Yogyakarta Special Region, and the media relations were executed through focus group discussion (FGD) with local journalists. Positive awareness and responses from the public were proven by positive Instagram engagements. Through the media relations, a common understanding between PT Pertamina (Persero) MOR IV and the journalists was achieved, and the messages to educate the public were well-delivered by the media.
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY OF SEDULUR SIKEP SAMIN’S BELIEVERS IN BUILDING POSITIVE IMAGE IN COMMUNITY
Authors: Nasri Robih Muzhaffar
Published: June 2023

Negative images were commonly experienced by minority groups in society, including Sedulur Sikep Samin’s believers. Therefore, a communication strategy was needed to build a positive image in society. This study aimed to determine the communication strategy of Sedulur Sikep Samin’s believers in Larikrejo Village, Undaan District, Kudus Regency, Central Java in building a positive image in society. This research explored three elements of communication strategy, namely message planning, communication approach, and media selection. This study used the Co-Cultural theory of Mark Orbe. Interpretive phenomenological analysis was used in this study as a technical data analysis. The results of this study indicated that Sedulur Sikep Samin’s believers in Larikrejo Village use accommodation strategies to build a positive image in society. This strategy included non-assertive and assertive accommodation. In terms of planning the message of Sedulur Sikep Samin’s believers, they conducted deliberation first before the message was conveyed to the public. The communication approach was carried out by mingling, staying in touch, tying brotherhood both verbally and non-verbally to society and local government. This approach was in accordance with the ancestral teachings of Sedulur Sikep Samin’s which had been passed down from generation to generation (Samin Teachings). In terms of media selection, Sedulur Sikep Samin’s believers used outdoor media such as signposts, banners, photos, and posters displayed in the secretariat office.
HOW TO BECOME A PRODUCTIVE FAN? THE EXISTENCE OF FAN TALKS AS FANDOM PRODUCTIVITY
Authors: Kusuma Rina Sari , Munasah Siti Aminah
Published: June 2023

Fans draw sharply the line between what falls within their fandom and what does not. Accumulation and appreciation of knowledge regarding fan’s objects of fandom are important for fan cultural capital. Fiske’s pre-internet model of fan productivity occurs at the interface between industrially-produced cultural commodities and the everyday life of the fan. Fan talk is a circulation mechanism of certain meanings of the object of fandom implying the membership of a particular fan community. BTS is a K-Pop group that uses online exposure with a variety of contents ranging from members personal message to behind-the-scenes footage to create deeper levels of intimacy with their fans. This helps them to advance their careers and create alliances with their fans. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach to explore BTS fan’s participation in fan talk activities shared within face-to-face communication. The data collection techniques used were in-depth interviews and participant observations of four BTS’s fans (called ARMY). The result shows that fan talk is one way of expressing the existence of fans. Digital media and the internet have allowed BTS' fans to share a wide range of signifiers and meanings from their music quickly and easily. This has created a form of symbolic interaction among fans that can be used to communicate concepts and ideas among one another. This enunciative productivity of fans is also serving a widespread promotional function for non-fans.
The Stopping Power of Sources
Authors: Driedger Jonas J.
Published: June 2023

The article analyzes arguments, made by John J. Mearsheimer and others, that the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 was largely caused by Western policy. It finds that these arguments rely on a partially false and incomplete reading of history. To do so, the article identifies a range of premises that are both foundational to Mearsheimer’s claims and based on implied or explicit historical interpretations. This includes the varying policies of Ukraine toward NATO and the EU as well as the changing Russian perceptions thereof; the political upheavals in Ukraine in early 2014 that were immediately succeeded by the annexation of Crimea and the war in Donbass; and the supposed absence of Russian ‘imperialism’ toward Ukraine prior to 2014. Finding that these interpretations do not hold up in light of relevant and available data, the article qualifies and contextualizes the validity of Mearsheimer’s arguments, points to superior ones, and highlights the need for case-specific expertise when using explanatory theory to make sense of politically salient ongoing events.
Against the Frame: Local Media Coverage of Ontario’s Basic Income Pilot
Authors: Irons Meaghan , Perrella Andrea M. L.
Published: June 2023

The 2017–2018 basic income pilot in the Canadian province of Ontario attempted to alleviate poverty in a precarious economy. With three communities participating, we examine how the pilot was framed by local media, permitting a look at the narratives that were dominant in the participating communities. In essence, were recipients framed as “deserving?” How the media addresses this question can set the foundation for whether policymakers can proceed with basic income. Given that media coverage of poverty alleviation in the United States generally follows an episodic frame, which puts focus on individuals and their particular circumstances (i.e. lifestyle choices), while major Canadian media generally shows a mix of frames, results of a media content analysis at the local level shows basic-income pilot was covered mainly through thematic frames, which emphasizes systemic factors and more general social conditions, which support state action on basic income.
A new method for vital sign detection using FMCW radar based on random body motion cancellation
Authors: Fu Shuai , Ling Ming , Li Zhenhua , Pan Long
Published: June 2023

In this study, we present a new method for acquiring human vital signs using a Range-Doppler matrix (RDM) of FMCW radar data and a Gaussian interpolation algorithm (GIA). First, the RDM is derived by applying a two-dimensional fast Fourier transform (2D-FFT) to the radar data, and the GIA is applied in the Doppler dimension to estimate the target velocity signal. Subsequently, a robust enhanced trend filtering (RETF) algorithm is used to eliminate the large-scale body motion from the vital signs. Finally, the time-varying filter-based empirical mode decomposition (TVF-EMD) algorithm is employed to extract the respiratory and heartbeat intrinsic mode functions (IMFs), which are filtered according to their respective spectral power to obtain the respiratory and heartbeat frequencies. The proposed method was evaluated using vital signs data collected from seven volunteers (4 males and 3 females) with Texas Instrument’s AWR1642, and the results were compared with data from a reference monitor. The experiments showed that the method had an accuracy of 93 % for respiration and 95 % for heart rate in the presence of random body movements. Unlike traditional radar-based vital signs detection methods, this approach does not rely on range bin selection of the range profile matrix (RPM), thereby avoiding phase wrap problems and producing more accurate results. Currently, research in this field is limited.
An IoT architecture to integrate different machine tools into a compound OPC UA interface
Authors: Strutzenberger Diana , Kunz Martin , Schuster Lisa Magdalena , Mangler Juergen , Hinterbichler Ronald
Published: June 2023

In the course of efforts to develop and define uniform routines for the implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) in industrial environments, it has become essential to integrate industrial communication standards such as OPC UA in the context of IoT ontologies and implications for practical implementation. The Sensor, Observation, Sampling, and Actuator Ontology (SOSA) offers the possibility of mapping OPC UA services such as read and write functions to the underlying system in the sense of IoT. As an aid for the practical implementation of industrial use cases, an architecture based on the considerations of a generic modular system is proposed. Variable elements in the implementation of OPC UA interfaces are identified and discussed. The architectural approach is being evaluated by implementing an OPC UA server and supplementary applications in order to embed machine tools with different control systems in industrial production networks.
Exploring the use of tutorial recordings for beginner distance learners of Chinese
Authors: Pleines Christine , Kan Qian
Published: June 2023

Previous research into listening to recorded tutorial interaction highlights the potential of tutorial recordings as a scalable resource in online contexts. Dialogue between tutor and learner or between peers may mediate the understanding not just of direct participants, but also of listeners, and listening to interactive recordings may facilitate deep learning. In language learning, both direct and indirect interactions have been shown to contribute to language development. This is relevant for online learning design, especially so in contexts where no tutorials are provided, and students are confronted with a challenging language such as Chinese. This paper reports on a small-scale project which explored potential learning benefits of working with recordings of online tutorials in a non-accredited, self-directed course for beginner learners of Chinese through surveys and stimulated recall interviews. Our analysis of the data shows that viewers focused on different visual and auditory elements of the recordings; they participated vicariously in interactions between a teacher and students, and they reported benefits for language learning and motivation. Findings suggest that these perceived benefits and preferences are linked to linguistic competence in comparison with direct attenders. The study aims to feed into a larger research project including more languages and accredited courses at the next stage.
Deconstructing Memory Johannes Cochlaeus’s Life of Martin Luther between Polemics and “Invectivity”
Authors: Dietl Cora
Published: June 2023

Johannes Cochlaeus’s Commentaria or Historia de actis et scriptis Martini Lutheri has been described as a “polemical invective.” This essay discusses the double title and the double characterization of the work and argues that its aim is to deconstruct Luther’s memory. Its effectivity derives from the combination of a polemical commentary and an invective biography. According to the Commentaria Luther’s works disgrace the author, and according to the Historia the author disqualifies his own works.
The construction of nuclei for normal constituents of Bπ
-characters
Authors: Jin Jun , Zhang Junwei
Published: June 2023

Let

G

G

be a

π

\pi

-separable group for some set

π

\pi

of primes, let

χ
∈

B

π

(

G

)

\chi \in {B}_{\pi }\left(G)

and let

N

◃

G

N\hspace{0.33em}<mml:mpadded xmlns:ali="http://www.niso.org/schemas/ali/1.0/"
xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance">\triangleleft \hspace{0.33em}G

. In this article, we explore how to construct a nucleus for an irreducible constituent of

χ

N

{\chi }_{N}

via the given nucleus

(

W
,
γ

)

\left(W,\gamma )

for

χ

\chi

.
Material flow and mechanical properties of friction stir welded AA 5052-H32 and AA6061-T6 alloys with Sc interlayer
Authors: Senthamaraikannan Balamurugan , Krishnamoorthy Jayakumar
Published: June 2023

Friction stir welding (FSW) is superior to fusion welding for joining incompatible alloys. In FSW Al/Mg alloys, developing IMCs like Al3Mg2 and Al12Mg17 is almost predictable and undesirable. Continuous IMCs produce a simple fracture propagation path, increasing brittleness and reducing weld strength. AA5052-H32 and AA6061-T6 were joined with a scandium (Sc) strip in the current study to improve material flow and reduce brittleness. Interlayer added on these alloys are the military-grade aluminium alloys used in the production of ship hull constructions and armoured helicopters. During FSW, a threaded cylinder tool with a rotating speed (TRS) of 1600–2000 rpm, welding speed (WS) of 60–80 mm/min and tool pin depth (TPD) of 0.1–0.4 mm were used to create the weld joints. To improve the strength of the above material combination during FSW, a 2 mm thickness Sc interlayer was added. The mechanical and metallurgical characteristics of the weld joints were studied. The maximum ultimate tensile strength value obtained from the cylinder-threaded tool pin profile with 0.1 mm TPD presented 237.63 MPa. Experimental interpretations were employed using response surface methodology-box Behnken design (RSM- BBD). FSW variables’ influence was investigated using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique.
An Environmental Human Rights Approach to Environmental Tobacco Smoking
Authors: Akyuz Emrah
Published: June 2023

While there are legal regulations prohibiting smoking in indoor areas in Turkey, there is none for outdoor areas. Many non-smokers are exposed to environmental tobacco smoking against their will in Turkey. Numerous research efforts have documented the fact that environmental tobacco smoke poses risks to human health because it pollutes the environment by releasing dangerous chemicals into the air that non-smokers breathe. This means that tobacco smoking poses risks to a safe environment and people’s lives. People have a right to the environment, as guaranteed by the Turkish Constitution. Since Stockholm Declaration, many countries have recognized that people have a right to a safe environment or that a safe environment is essential to the enjoyment of human rights, including Turkey. However, how non-smokers perceive of the impacts of environmental tobacco smoke on the enjoyment of the right to the environment enshrined within the Turkish legal system has not been studied to date. Accordingly, this research aims to explore how issues relating to environmental tobacco smoke can be approached from an environmental human rights perspective. To achieve this purpose, a qualitative case study was conducted in Istanbul. The results of this analysis show that non-smokers do not enjoy the right to the clean environment guaranteed by the Turkish Constitution due to the ETS.
Mechanical and tribological properties of C/C–SiC ceramic composites with different preforms
Authors: Peng Yuqing , Li Zhiwei , Li Aijun , Wang Qifan , Bai Ruicheng , Zhang Fangzhou
Published: June 2023

The C/C–SiC composites were fabricated by the liquid silicon infiltration method. The mechanical and tribological properties of C/C–SiC composites were assessed and compared based on different C/C densities and the carbon fiber textile architecture. The results demonstrated that the bending and shear strengths of C/C–SiC were lower than those of C/C composites, which resulted from the carbon fibers being corroded during the process of infiltration of liquid silicon. In contrast to C/C composites, the compressive strength of C/C–SiC exhibited higher values due to the presence of SiC ceramics. Moreover, the mechanical strength of C/C composites increased gradually with the increase of the C/C preform density. The tribological properties of various C/C–SiC composites showed a stable friction phase at an intermediate braking stage. When the density of C/C preforms was around 1.78 g/cm3, the C/C–SiC composites exhibited excellent friction coefficients (0.438 and 0.465), and low wear rates (linear and weight wear rates were 0.450 µm/time and 0.123 g/cycle, respectively). Furthermore, the C/C–SiC composites fabricated with non-woven carbon fiber needling preforms showed relatively a higher friction value and wear rate than those of C/C–SiC with PANOF integral C/C preforms. Therefore, C/C–SiC composites have been considered promising friction materials for braking system applications.