bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OFDM-NOMA combined with LFM signal for W-band communication and radar detection simultaneously
Authors: Song Ran , He Jing
Published: May 2022

In this Letter, an effective integrated waveform generation method where an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM)-based non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) communication signal combined with a linear frequency modulation (LFM) radar signal is proposed and experimentally demonstrated in a W-band communication and radar detection system. The proposed method can generate communication and radar signals simultaneously. In addition, multiple user communication and multi-target radar detection can be realized. Furthermore, for the OFDM-NOMA signal, discrete Fourier transform (DFT) precoding is used to keep the optimal power ratio consistent on different subcarriers, thus, the communication performance can be effectively improved. The experimental results show that the distance estimation error is 1.2 cm for radar signals. Meanwhile, after transmission over 0.8-m free space, the total aggregate rate for two users with the OFDM-NOMA signal is 3.125 Gb/s under the bit error rate of 8.5 × 10−4.
All-pass phase shifting enabled by symmetric topological unidirectional guided resonances
Authors: Zhang Zixuan , Wang Feifan , Wang Haoran , Hu Yuefeng , Yin Xuefan , Hu Weiwei , Peng Chao
Published: May 2022

All-pass phase shifting (APS), which involves a wave propagating at a constant, unitary amplitude but with pure phase variation, is extremely desired in many optoelectronic applications. In this work, we propose a method of realizing APS by out-of-plane excitation of a topologically enabled unidirectional guided resonance (UGR), which resides in a photonic crystal slab with P or C2z symmetries. Briefly, the symmetries and unidirectional features reduce the number of ports to one that simultaneously adds or drops energy. As a result, the phase independently shifts by varying the frequency but the amplitude remains as unitary under plane wave excitation. Theory and simulations confirm our findings. A paradox that the background contribution deviates from Fabry–Perot resonance is clarified from a multi-resonances picture.
Creation of cylindrical vector beams through highly anisotropic scattering media with a single scalar transmission matrix calibration
Authors: Zhao Qian , Tu Shijie , Lei Qiannan , Guo Chengshan , Zhan Qiwen , Cai Yangjian
Published: May 2022

Cylindrical vector (CV) beams have attracted increasing interest due to their particular properties and their applications in optical imaging, optical manipulation, and light–matter interactions. However, it is challenging to construct CV beams through highly anisotropic scattering media (HASM), such as thick biological tissue, posing a barrier to the applications of CV beams that involve HASM. Here, we present a scheme to construct CV beams beyond high scattering that only requires a single scalar transmission matrix (TM) calibration and manipulation of the spatial degrees of freedom of the scalar input field. Assisted by a radial polarization converter (S-waveplate) and a polarizer, the scheme enables one to obtain the correct incident wavefront for the creation of CV beams through HASM with only one single scalar TM calibration. Compared to the existing method, this user-friendly approach is fast and simple in terms of the optical implements and computations. Both radially and azimuthally polarized beams are experimentally constructed through a ZnO scattering layer to demonstrate the viability of the method. Arbitrarily generalized CV beams and arrays of CV beams are also created through the HASM to further prove the flexibility of the method. We believe this work may pave the way for applications of CV beams that involve a highly anisotropic scattering environment.
Why do some coronaviruses become pandemic threats when others do not?
Authors: Rice Benjamin L. , Lessler Justin , McKee Clifton , Metcalf C. Jessica E.
Published: May 2022

Despite multiple spillover events and short chains of transmission on at least 4 continents, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) has never triggered a pandemic. By contrast, its relative, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has, despite apparently little, if any, previous circulation in humans. Resolving the unsolved mystery of the failure of MERS-CoV to trigger a pandemic could help inform how we understand the pandemic potential of pathogens, and probing it underscores a need for a more holistic understanding of the ways in which viral genetic changes scale up to population-level transmission.
Robust inference of bi-directional causal relationships in presence of correlated pleiotropy with GWAS summary data
Authors: Xue Haoran , Pan Wei
Published: May 2022

To infer a causal relationship between two traits, several correlation-based causal direction (CD) methods have been proposed with the use of SNPs as instrumental variables (IVs) based on GWAS summary data for the two traits; however, none of the existing CD methods can deal with SNPs with correlated pleiotropy. Alternatively, reciprocal Mendelian randomization (MR) can be applied, which however may perform poorly in the presence of (unknown) invalid IVs, especially for bi-directional causal relationships. In this paper, first, we propose a CD method that performs better than existing CD methods regardless of the presence of correlated pleiotropy. Second, along with a simple but yet effective IV screening rule, we propose applying a closely related and state-of-the-art MR method in reciprocal MR, showing its almost identical performance to that of the new CD method when their model assumptions hold; however, if the modeling assumptions are violated, the new CD method is expected to better control type I errors. Notably bi-directional causal relationships impose some unique challenges beyond those for uni-directional ones, and thus requiring special treatments. For example, we point out for the first time several scenarios where a bi-directional relationship, but not a uni-directional one, can unexpectedly cause the violation of some weak modeling assumptions commonly required by many robust MR methods. We also offer some numerical support and a modeling justification for the application of our new methods (and more generally MR) to binary traits. Finally we applied the proposed methods to 12 risk factors and 4 common diseases, confirming mostly well-known uni-directional causal relationships, while identifying some novel and plausible bi-directional ones such as between body mass index and type 2 diabetes (T2D), and between diastolic blood pressure and stroke.
Impact of a Cryptococcal meningitis diagnosis and treatment program at Lira Regional Referral Hospital in rural, Northern Uganda
Authors: Link Abigail , Okwir Mark , Meya David , Nabongo Betty , Okello James , Kasprzyk Danuta , Bohjanen Paul R.
Published: May 2022

In rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa, infrastructure and resources for treatment of cryptococcal meningitis (CM) are often lacking. We introduced a CM diagnosis and treatment program (CM-DTP) at Lira Regional Referral Hospital (LRRH) in rural Uganda to determine if implementing high-quality standard of care protocols would improve outcomes. Information extracted from hospital charts and clinical record forms at LRRH were used to compare diagnoses, treatments, and outcomes for all patients diagnosed with meningitis (n = 281) over a two-year period after initiation of the CM-DTP in February of 2017 to all patients diagnosed with meningitis (n = 215) in the two preceding years. After implementation of the CM-DTP, we observed increased confirmed diagnoses of CM from 22.2% (48 of 215) to 35.2% (99 of 281), (p = 0.002) among all patients diagnosed with meningitis. Among all patients treated for CM, the proportion who received standard of care treatment with amphotericin B plus fluconazole increased from 63 of 127 (49.6%) to 109 of 146 (74.7%), (p <0.001) and mortality improved from 66 of 127 (52.0%) to 57 of 146 (39.0%), (p = 0.04) after implementation of the CM-DTP. Implementation of the CM-DTP was associated with increased number of lumbar punctures and decreased use of antibiotics in patients with CM, as well as decreased mortality among patients with meningitis from all causes. Improved diagnosis, treatment, and mortality were observed following implementation of the CM-DTP. Our results demonstrate that quality treatment of CM in rural Uganda is feasible.
A molecular view of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis through the lens of interaction network modules
Authors: Jensen Klaus Højgaard , Stalder Anna Katharina , Wernersson Rasmus , Roloff-Handschin Tim-Christoph , Hansen Daniel Hvidberg , Groenen Peter M. A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Despite the discovery of familial cases with mutations in Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1), Guanine nucleotide exchange C9orf72, TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TARDBP) and RNA-binding protein FUS as well as a number of other genes linked to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), the etiology and molecular pathogenesis of this devastating disease is still not understood. As proteins do not act alone, conducting an analysis of ALS at the system level may provide new insights into the molecular biology of ALS and put it into relationship to other neurological diseases.

Methods

A set of ALS-associated genes/proteins were collected from publicly available databases and text mining of scientific literature. We used these as seed proteins to build protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks serving as a scaffold for further analyses. From the collection of networks, a set of core modules enriched in seed proteins were identified. The molecular biology of the core modules was investigated, as were their associations to other diseases. To assess the core modules’ ability to describe unknown or less well-studied ALS biology, they were queried for proteins more recently associated to ALS and not involved in the primary analysis.

Results

We describe a set of 26 ALS core modules enriched in ALS-associated proteins. We show that these ALS core modules not only capture most of the current knowledge about ALS, but they also allow us to suggest biological interdependencies. In addition, new associations of ALS networks with other neurodegenerative diseases, e.g. Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s and Parkinson’s disease were found. A follow-up analysis of 140 ALS-associated proteins identified since 2014 reveals a significant overrepresentation of new ALS proteins in these 26 disease modules.

Conclusions

Using protein-protein interaction networks offers a relevant approach for broadening the understanding of the biological context of known ALS-associated genes. Using a bottom-up approach for the analysis of protein-protein interaction networks is a useful method to avoid bias caused by over-connected proteins. Our ALS-enriched modules cover most known biological functions associated with ALS. The presence of recently identified ALS-associated proteins in the core modules highlights the potential for using these as a scaffold for identification of novel ALS disease mechanisms.
An Indigenous epistemological revival through an inclusive art practice teaching method
Authors: Mpako Nombeko P.
Published: May 2022

This article reflects on an inclusive art practice teaching method that encourages students to embrace their Indigenous knowledge and cultural meanings as a point of departure, culminating in visual narratives. It provides an overview of a selection of African language Xhosa speech acts and visual narratives from students who have completed their qualifications using this method. Cultural meanings are constructed through language, which subsequently influences the behavioural world of the speakers. Analysis and interpretation of a small sample of visual narratives is presented in order to highlight the value of this inclusive teaching method. The emergent visual narratives contribute to the sustainability and future research of Indigenous culture in the context of African Indigenous knowledge systems.
Optimization of high peak power few-cycle optical parametric chirped pulse amplifier systems
Authors: Tóth Szabolcs
Published: May 2022

OPCPA systems are capable of delivering high peak and average power pulses, consisting of only a few oscillation cycles of the electric field. The development of these systems are motivated by attosecond pulse generation and the examination of ultrafast physical processes. During my work I was using a 4D numerical code for the modelleding of OPCPA. I have examined a few OPA arrangements, which can increase the efficiency of the amplification process and the bandwidth of the amplified pulses. I have numerically optimized the OPCPA of the ELI-ALPS SYLOS system and carried out a comparative study of a mid-IR OPCPA system.
HOLTER ECG MONITORING AS METHOD FOR ASSESSING INTERACTION OF IMPLANTED PACEMAKER AND SOURCE OF ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE
Authors: Morava Jan , Kupec Jindřich , Souček Tomáš , Richter Aleš
Published: May 2022

The aim of the study was to assess the interaction of the cardiostimulation system of the patient and the source of electromagnetic interference (EMI) during the patient’s work by Holter monitoring of ECG. Finally, to analyze ECG recording and evaluate possible pacemaker (PCM) program responses to the presence of EMI. The observation was performed in the selected patient with the single-chamber conventional pacemaker during practicing of a profession in an industrial environment with a real risk of interaction with the defined source of interference. The heart rhythm was monitored with a standard Holter monitor and the measurement was repeated during three work shifts. The PCM was revised before each measurement and at the same time the programming was adjusted for monitoring purposes. The ECG record was back-analyzed and the device response to the presence of EMI was evaluated. No program response to the presence of an interfering electromagnetic field (EMF) was observed from the ECG recording analysis. This program response would manifest to abnormalities in the ECG curve (asynchronous pacing, pacing inhibition, competitive pacing). There were no events in the PCM memory indicating the effect of the EMI.
El correo electrónico mediador de intercambios lingüísticos
Authors: González Niño Liliana
Published: May 2022

El presente artículo tiene por objetivo dar a conocer algunos avances de una investigación que se realiza en el marco de una experiencia pedagógica cuya finalidad es el intercambio de mensajes electrónicos entre estudiantes de la Licenciatura en Lenguas Modernas de la Pontificia Universidad Javeriana que aprenden el francés y estudiantes franceses de la universidad de Franche-Comté en Francia que aprenden el español. La implementación de un dispositivo de este tipo es un medio adecuado para que los estudiantes practicando la lengua de aprendizaje (francés – español) mejoren su nivel de competencia comunicativa.
English Language Teaching in Times of Change and the Relevance of Maintaining a Clear View on Critical Perspectives
Authors: Bonilla Medina Ximena , Quintero Polo Alvaro Hernan
Published: May 2022

Editorial
Aprendizaje de Sistemas de Ecuaciones Lineales De 2×2 con Apoyo del Software Ardora
Authors: Palacios Granados Ana Yaquelinne , Villalpando Becerra José Francisco , Pantoja Rangel Rafael
Published: May 2022

Se presentan los resultados de una investigación, para la cual se diseñó una propuesta didáctica sobre el aprendizaje de sistemas de ecuaciones lineales de 2×2 con el apoyo del software libre Ardora. Fue de tipo cuasi-experimental, ya que se trabajó con dos grupos previamente establecidos, uno de control donde el tema se trató de manera tradicional y el otro experimental en el cual se implementó la propuesta. También se tienen aspectos cualitativos, ya que se analizaron las opiniones de estudiantes sobre la propuesta presentada, y de igual manera aspectos cuantitativos debido a que se utilizaron datos numéricos para la realización del análisis estadístico. Una vez que se elaboraron los instrumentos tanto de evaluación como de aplicación de la propuesta, se sometieron a una validación por parte de expertos en el tema. Posteriormente, se aplicó la propuesta y al terminar la experimentación de la misma se aplicó un post-test. Finalmente, se realizó una encuesta sobre diversos temas relacionados con la propuesta didáctica, los resultados nos muestran que hubo mejores resultados de aprendizaje en los estudiantes del grupo experimental que en los del grupo de control.
Linguagem metafórica nos discursos de divulgação em ciência e tecnologia em youtube: o caso do canal manual do mundo
Authors: Fernandes Cardoso Hellen Luyza , Cézar Seiffert Santos Saulo
Published: May 2022

As analogias e outras formas metafóricas de comparação são capazes de contribuir para a explicação de vários conceitos considerados polissêmicos. Diversas mídias, como os canais da plataforma de compartilhamento de vídeos YouTube, podem aproximar as ideias abstratas para a assimilação, e ocorre uma divulgação científica. Nosso objetivo foi reconhecer as comparações metafóricas em vídeos, como recurso didático, para compreensão de conceitos científicos em tema de ciência e tecnologia em um canal educativo e entretenimento do YouTube. Conforme os resultados, existem construções verbais de símiles e metáforas apoiadas na imagem, que dão uma expressão diferenciada ao apresentador que não precisa falar todos os detalhes. Há momentos, também, em que ocorre uma expressão de comparações metafóricas verbais sem o recurso da imagem, com conteúdo. Em três vídeos comparados em uma playlist de grande acesso, percebemos, por um lado, que há uma presença do elemento estético-cômico - através de brincadeiras e uso da linguagem informal -, e, por outro lado, a apresentação de fenômenos científicos (saneamento do esgoto em um vídeo) e atividades técnicas em artefatos (fabricação da bolinha de gude e tijolo, em outros vídeos). Estas tornam-se marcas deste canal de Divulgação Científica. Notamos que a ideologia circula entre as esferas de visitantes do canal de audiência aparentemente escolar (aprender assuntos científicos e tecnológicos), por meio de comunicação escolhida (YouTube) em dialogismo com os editores do canal (experiências pessoais).
Drei regionale Kooperationen im Langzeit-Lebens- und Adaptionszyklus: empirische Anwendung und Weiterentwicklung eines Modells
Authors: Diller Christian , Nischwitz Guido
Published: May 2022

Based on a developed life and adaption-cycle model of regional cooperations, the development of three German rural regions is examined (Altmark, Kiel, Kronach). The interaction of external and internal influencing factors explains the quite different development patterns of the three regions. As amain finding can be formulated that in the development of regional cooperation neither a general tendency towards stable structures nor towards stable spatial structures can be asserted. Rather regional cooperation structures can be eroded even after a longer period of stability, as well despite continuous support of the state. Variable spatial shapes of regional cooperations can be handled in a productive way particularly if the institutional, political and administrative structures of the base unit county are stable.
Potential for Antibacterial Activity of Chitosan-Polyvinyl Alcohol Membrane Loaded with Green Grass Jelly Leaf and Moringa Leaf Extract as a Wound Dressing
Authors: Inayatullah Nur , Kemala Tetty , Suparto Irma Herawati
Published: May 2022

Chitosan is a natural polymer that can be used as wound dressing material; however, it has rigid and brittle properties. A combination of chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is expected to allow improvement of chitosan’s mechanical properties. Green grass jelly leaf (Cyclea barbarta M.) and moringa leaf (Moringa oleifera L.) have antibacterial compounds that can be added to the chitosan-PVA composite membrane. The purpose of the research was to develop and characterize the chitosan-PVA composite membrane with the addition of green grass jelly leaf and moringa leaf extracts to enhance the antibacterial activity of the membranes that have potential as a wound dressing. Both extracts with various composition volumes (75:25, 50:50, and 25:75) were tested for antibacterial activities against S. aureus and E. coli. Chitosan-PVA composite membrane with the volume ratios of 5:5, 6:4, and 7:3 was added with extract with the highest antibacterial activity. The composites were characterized for density, water vapor permeability, tensile strength, elongation, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscope. The most significant inhibition zone was shown by an extract ratio of 50:50 against S. aureus and E. coli, 13.00±1.17 mm and 7.00±0.17 mm, respectively. Composite membrane with the addition of extract had a larger inhibition zone against S. aureus (9.75±0.75 mm) and E. coli (7.50±0.65 mm) than without extract. Chitosan-PVA(5:5)+extract membrane showed excellent density and water vapor permeability compared to other membrane ratio compositions. Mechanically, the addition of extract decreased the tensile strength and elongation of the membranes; however, it still complied with the medical material standard criteria. The characterization for functional groups showed that chitosan-PVA+extract generated the N-H group peak with two wavenumbers expressed as overlapping amides with amines and protonated amines. The SEM analysis showed that the addition of extract was not distributed homogeneously on the membrane surface.
Synthesis of Ionic Imprinted Membrane (IIM) Based on Sulfonated Polyeugenol for Selective Transport of Gold (III) Metal Ions from Motherboard Waste
Authors: Djunaidi Muhammad Cholid , Rahmayani Fadjrin Nur , Khabibi Khabibi
Published: May 2022

Ionic imprinted membrane (IIM) was successfully synthesized using sulfonated polyeugenol, a derivative of eugenol as a functional polymer, with PVA as a base membrane and PEGDE as a crosslinker. IIM Au(III) is a membrane with an Au(III) ion template. This study aimed to determine the pH effect of a feed phase for selective transport of IIM Au(III), comparing it with a non-imprinted membrane (NIM) against Au3+ metal ions from motherboard waste. It also aimed to compare the membrane selectivity of Au3+ metal ions to Cu2+ metal ions, which are also found in motherboard waste. Gold samples were prepared using H(AuCl4) standard and leaching solutions from motherboard waste. The leaching of the motherboard used aqua regia and the assistance of a microwave to accelerate the leaching process. The optimum transport of Au3+ metal ions was when using IIM Au(III) at pH 3. This proved that the presence of a template affected IIM Au(III) to recognize Au(III) ions. IIM Au(III) showed higher selectivity than NIM, as evidenced by the percentage in the receiving phase of the Au3+ metal ions, which was more significant than the Cu2+ metal ions from the motherboard leaching solution.
Eficiência do extrato hidroalcoólico de Croton floribundus Spreng. no controle de bactérias que causam mastite bovina
Authors: Doria Ribeiro Cabral Luciana , Bertolaso De Vecchi Laura , De Almeida Ana Flavia , Sussumo Matsumoto Leopoldo , Alves da Silva Marcelo , Gonçalves da Silva Regildo Marcio , Cosendey Toledo de Mello-Peixoto Erika
Published: May 2022

Resistência medicamentosa continua representando importante problema mundial. A busca por terapias naturais é frequentemente observada em decorrência da possibilidade de minimizar o uso de medicamentos sintéticos, além da menor ocorrência de efeitos adversos. Capixingui (Croton floribundus) é uma espécie arbórea, tropical, considerada como planta medicinal. Em sua composição destaca-se o ácido caurenóico, com ação antimicrobiana, citotóxica e anti-inflamatória. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana do extrato hidroalcóolico de Croton floribundus a 10% (EHAC10%) sobre inócuos Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Staphylococcus saprophyticus ATCC 15305, Escherichia coli ATCC 11229, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 700603 e Pseudomona aeruginosa ATCC 27853. A atividade antimicrobiana foi avaliada por difusão em disco e concentração inibitória mínima. Complementarmente, foi determinada atividade antioxidante, além dos teores de fenóis e flavonoides totais. EHAC10% inibiu o crescimento de Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, e Pseudomona aeruginosa. Quanto à atividade antioxidante, teores de fenóis e flavonoides totais, foi possível verificar o padrão dose dependente com valores máximos apresentados na maior dosagem avaliada pelo presente estudo (1.000 µg mL-1). A atividade antioxidante, foi registrada a partir de 250 µg mL-1, apresentando valor máximo correspondente a 70,56%. Os maiores teores de fenóis e flavonoides totais corresponderam a 280 mg e 44,41 mg, respectivamente. Dessa forma, as atividades antibacteriana e antioxidante do EHAC 10% podem representar importante potencial terapêutico para o controle da mastite bovina, especialmente para sistemas orgânicos de produção.
Simultaneous validation of wearable motion capture system for lower body applications: over single plane range of motion (ROM) and gait activities
Authors: Mihcin Senay
Published: May 2022

Extracting data from {Zhu, 2019 #5} daily life activities is important in biomechanical applications to define exact boundary conditions for the intended use-based applications. Although optoelectronic camera-marker based systems are used as gold standard tools for medical applications, due to line-of-sight problem, there is a need for wearable, affordable motion capture (MOCAP) systems. We investigate the potential use of a wearable inertial measurement unit (IMU) based-wearable MOCAP system for biomechanical applications. The in vitro proof of concept is provided for the full lower body consisting of hip, knee, and ankle joints via controlled single-plane anatomical range of motion (ROM) simulations using an electrical motor, while collecting data simultaneously via opto-electronic markers and IMU sensors. On 15 healthy volunteers the flexion-extension, abduction-adduction, internal-external rotation (ROM) values of hip and, the flexion – extension ROM values of the knee and ankle joints are calculated for both systems. The Bland-Altman graphs showed promising agreement both for in vitro and in vivo experiments. The maximum Root Mean Square Errors (RMSE) between the systems in vitro was 3.4° for hip and 5.9° for knee flexion motion in vivo, respectively. The gait data of the volunteers were assessed between the heel strike and toe off events to investigate the limits of agreement, calculating the population averages and standard deviation for both systems over the gait cycle. The maximum difference was for the ankle joint <6°. The results show that proposed system could be an option as an affordable-democratic solution.
Playing the Petrocene: Toxicity and Intoxication in Leigh Fondakowski’s Spill and Ella Hickson’s Oil
Authors: Hess Linda M.
Published: May 2022

Ella Hickson’s Oil (2016) and Leigh Fondakowski’s Spill (2014) make palpable to their audiences what I call the Petrocene: the age in which human existence has become impossible to conceive without oil. Each play illuminates the pervasive presence of petroleum infrastructures in its own way: while Spill focuses on the specific and sensational crisis of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010, Oil presents a series of scenes which focus on two women (mother and daughter) who struggle to carve out their existence in various time periods and in the context of different fossil-energy regimes. Both plays succeed in unveiling not only the toxicity of extractive regimes necessary to fuel the Petrocene, but also the toxicity of the narratives that uphold extractive regimes and their attendant injustices. Moreover, both plays convey the intoxicating effects of oil, which appears as a near-magical substance that promises unfettered progress and access to the good life. Examining these plays in conjunction not only highlights the increasing presence of ecological concerns in dramatic pieces, but also illustrates the ways in which dramatic performance can distill enormous oil infrastructures into apprehensible worlds and thus create vital spaces for pondering the Petrocene.
Students as Partners: A critical-digital partnership model for redesigning the language curriculum
Authors: Dianati Seb , Tonkin Robin , Spinelli Franciele
Published: May 2022

The global COVID-19 pandemic has caused considerable and drastic changes to teaching and learning, forcing many teachers to adopt an online pedagogical approach. This disruption has caused traditional universities to change how their curriculum is delivered and also revisit how learning occurs. While we are indeed living in challenging times, we argue that this defining moment will become the impetus for pedagogical reform wherein new methods of teaching and learning will emerge. In this paper, we bring together three broad subjects of teaching and learning scholarship: (a) learning design, (b) critical pedagogy, and (c) student partnership. We contend that together, these three fields provide room for students to become actors and agents of their own learning through student-led learning design. Using critical participatory action research (CPAR) spanning 4 years and 22 projects, this case study offers a starting point for learning designers and student partners to work together in nine different instructional design models.
European School for Interdisciplinary Tinnitus (ESIT): A global research training initiative
Authors: Shekhawat Giriraj , Schonell Stuart , Schoisswohl Stefan , Biswas Roshni , Schiller Axel , Schlee Winfried
Published: May 2022

The European School for Interdisciplinary Tinnitus Research (ESIT) is an EU-funded doctoral training network. ESIT is a consortium of 12 universities, over 30 commercial and not‐for‐profit organizations, and 15 PhD students providing cutting-edge education across 10 European countries to develop highly knowledgeable and innovative experts in the field of tinnitus research. The ESIT consortium is composed of multidisciplinary researchers and academics engaged in supervising culturally diverse students from nine countries. Over the span of 4 years, ESIT students demonstrated transformational growth in academic and personal spheres and overcame multiple challenges. This case study documents the meaningful partnerships developed between students and the ESIT support network and some of the challenges faced by ESIT in training 15 international students during a global pandemic. It documents the co-creation of knowledge achieved by those engaged in a global shared learning journey and the conflicts and cultural dimensions that they navigated.
The ‘New (Nu)-clear’ evidence of the tumor-driving role of PI3K
Authors: Pozo Franklin Mayca , Hunter Tony , Zhang Youwei
Published: May 2022

The classical phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are heterodimers of p110 and p85. PIK3CA, the gene encoding the catalytic p110α subunit, is one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes in human cancers. Mutations have been observed to occur in hotspots in the helical domain or kinase domain. Tumors with these two types of PIK3CA mutations show overlapping yet distinct phenotypes; however, the underlying mechanisms driving these phenotypes remain unclear. In a recent publication [1], Hao et al. have revealed exciting findings indicating that the PI3K p85β regulatory subunit promotes cancer progression driven by PIK3CA helical-domain mutations. The authors found that p85β disassociates from the PI3K complex and translocates into the nucleus only in cancer cells bearing PIK3CA helical-domain mutations. Disrupting the nuclear localization of p85β suppresses tumor growth of cancer cells with PIK3CA helical-domain mutation in mice. Mechanistically, the authors have elegantly shown that nuclear p85β recruits the deubiquitinase USP7, which stabilizes the EZH1/2 histone methyltransferases and consequently enhances H3K27 trimethylation and the transcription of genes. Combining an EZH inhibitor with a PI3K inhibitor specifically resulted in regression of mouse xenograft tumors with PIK3CA helical-domain mutations. These findings illustrate a previously uncharacterized function of p85β in tumor development and suggest an effective approach to targeting tumors with PIK3CA helical-domain mutations.
Time Spent Playing Two Online Shooters Has No Measurable Effect on Aggressive Affect
Authors: Johannes Niklas , Vuorre Matti , Magnusson Kristoffer , Przybylski Andrew K.
Published: May 2022

There is a lively debate whether playing games that feature armed combat and competition (often referred to as violent video games) has measurable effects on aggression. Unfortunately, that debate has produced insights that remain preliminary without accurate behavioral data. Here, we present a secondary analysis of the most authoritative longitudinal data set available on the issue from our previous study (Vuorre et al., 2021). We analyzed objective in-game behavior, provided by video game companies, in 2,580 players over six weeks. Specifically, we asked how time spent playing two popular online shooters, Apex Legends (PEGI 16) and Outriders (PEGI 18), affected self-reported feelings of anger (i.e., aggressive affect). We found that playing these games did not increase aggressive affect; the cross-lagged association between game time and aggressive affect was virtually zero. Our results showcase the value of obtaining accurate industry data as well as an open science of video games and mental health that allows cumulative knowledge building.
The impact of macroprudential policy on the economy of Lithuania
Authors:   , Karmelavičius Jaunius
Published: May 2022

Makroprudencinės politikos priemonių poveikio Lietuvos ekonomikai vertinimas
Family Connection and Flourishing Among Adolescents in 26 Countries
Authors: Whitaker Robert C. , Dearth-Wesley Tracy , Herman Allison N. , van Wingerden Anne-Sophie N. , Winn Delaine W.
Published: May 2022

OBJECTIVES:

To determine whether higher levels of family connection are associated with a greater prevalence of flourishing in adolescence.

METHODS:

We analyzed cross-sectional data from the International Survey of Children’s Well-Being collected in 26 countries between 2016 and 2019 from 11- to 13-year-olds. Family connection was based on a mean score of 5 items that asked about care, support, safety, respect, and participation using a Likert-type scale (range 0–4). Flourishing was based on a mean score of 6 items that asked about self-acceptance, purpose in life, positive relations with others, personal growth, environmental mastery, and autonomy using a Likert-type scale (range 0–10). A mean score of >8 was considered flourishing.

RESULTS:

The analysis involved 37 025 of 39 286 (94.2%) adolescents, after excluding those with missing data. The mean (SD) age was 11.9 (0.6) years and 51.4% were girls. The prevalence (95% confidence interval) of flourishing was 65.8% (65.3–66.3). Adolescents were distributed across 5 increasing levels of the family connection score: <2.5 (11.2%), 2.5 to <3.0 (8.8%), 3.0 to <3.5 (24.2%), 3.5 to <4.0 (25.1%), and 4.0 (30.7%). After controlling for covariates, including material resources and food sufficiency, the prevalence (95% confidence interval) of flourishing increased across the 5 levels of increasing family connection: 34.9% (33.3–36.5), 45.0% (43.2–46.8), 58.2% (57.2–59.3), 72.6% (71.6–73.5), and 84.3% (83.6–85.1), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

Among adolescents from 26 countries, greater family connection was associated with a higher prevalence of flourishing. Family connection may contribute to flourishing, not just the avoidance of negative outcomes.
ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZA SYMBIOSIS REDUCES THE RHIZOCTONIA ROOT ROT AND ALTERS THE PHENOLIC PROFILE IN COMMON BEAN
Authors: Corrales-Sánchez Jesús Benjamín , López-Meyer Melina , Valdez Morales Maribel , Trejo Aguilar Dora , Bojórquez Armenta Yolani de Jesús , Valle Castillo Carmen Elena , Ibarra Sarmiento Carlos Ramiro , Romero Urías Cecilia de Los Ángeles , Mora Romero Guadalupe Arlene
Published: May 2022

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have the potential to reduce the deleterious effect of soil-borne pathogens, but their ability for pathogen biocontrol may vary depending on the genotype of the plant, the pathogen, and the AMF interaction. Thus, the aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of the Mexican biofertilizer Rizofermic-UV based on a mix of AMF formulation against the common bean root rot caused by the pathogenic fungus Rhizoctonia solani Kühn 1858 (Teleomorph: Thanatephorus cucumeris). Additionally, the total phenolic content, individual phenolic acid (caffeic, ferulic, o-cumaric, p-cumaric, sinapic, and vanillic), and the flavonoid (catechin, kaempferol, quercetin and, rutin) profiles were analyzed. Our results show that the AMF biofertilization reduces the disease severity up to 68 %, and this was accompanied by a boost in total phenolic content in dual inoculation. Furthermore, a variation in the individual phenolic profiles caused by both AMF interaction and pathogen treatment alone were observed. In dual inoculations, vanillic acid was significantly different among treatments, suggesting it may contribute to the enhanced resistance of mycorrhizal roots to soil-borne pathogens. Further work is required to elucidate the exact role of these compounds in the bioprotection of arbuscular mycorrhizal to plant pathogens.
COMPORTAMIENTO MEIÓTICO EN VAINILLA (V. planifolia Jacks., ORCHIDACEAE)
Authors: Iglesias-Andreu Lourdes Georgina , Almejo Vázquez Lizette Isabel , Escobedo Gracia Medrano Rosa Maria
Published: May 2022

El comportamiento meiótico es de gran importancia para el desarrollo de programas de mejoramiento genético, especialmente en especies como la vainilla (Vanilla planifolia Jacks.), que se ven severamente afectadas por diversos factores bióticos y abióticos derivados de su estrecha base genética. Por ello, el presente trabajo se planteó con el objetivo de evaluar el comportamiento meiótico del morfotipo comercial "Mansa" del municipio de Papantla de Olarte, Veracruz, México. Para ello, se colectaron botones florales de diferentes tamaños y se fijaron en Carnoy, utilizando la técnica de la calabaza, seguido de una tinción con acetocarmín al 2% (p/v) para observar claramente todas las etapas del proceso meiótico.  Se observó un comportamiento meiótico normal y un número de cromosomas haploides (n = 8). Estos resultados pueden ser útiles para el desarrollo de programas de mejora de este cultivo.
FISHES (Actinopteri, Characiformes) FROM THE TAPYTA RESERVE WITH THREE NEW ADDITIONS TO THE PARAGUAYAN ICHTHYOFAUNA
Authors: Vera-Alcaraz Héctor Samuel , Rojas Braulio Luis
Published: May 2022

The Characiform fish species from the Tapyta Reserve and surrounding area, Caazapa, Paraguay, were inventoried during a year with electrofishing, netting, and trapping. A total of 20 species were registered, being Characidae the richest family. We also report three species as new records to the Paraguayan ichthyofauna and discuss the update of the inventory of fishes from Paraguay.
Product development process of a digital irrigameter: a water sizing proposal for sprinkler irrigation process in different cultures
Authors: De Melo Gustavo Alves , Reis Álif Rafael Fernandes , Mendonça Peixoto Maria Gabriela , Barbosa Samuel Borges
Published: May 2022

This paper aimed to propose the development of a digital irrigimeter, in order to assist in water sizing, to be used in the sprinkler irrigation process, in different cultures. From the realization of a market research, it was verified the existence of a gap represented by individuals who have difficulty in dimensioning the water, to be used in irrigation. Thus, it was used the Hargreaves-Samani methodology, for the realization of calculations of the optimum amount of water to be precipitated, per square meter of planted area, weighted by crop coefficients and local soil. So, customer requirements, such as flexibility and response speed were translated into technical characteristics of the final product. Thus, the cost of the final product is directly associated with the level of technology adopted in each component of the product.
Adjusting the water retention curve for retractable soils
Authors: Silva Luana da , Albuquerque Jackson Adriano , Sequinatto Letícia , Bortolini Diego
Published: May 2022

The soil water retention curve (SWRC) relates moisture to soil water retention energy (matrix potential). The calculation of the volumetrichumidity considers the sample volume. In retractable soils, this volume varies according to the drying or wetting of the soil, which can result in errors in the calculated moisture. The objective of this study is to quantify the volume variation in retractable soils and to elaborate the SWRC via the traditional method, which does not consider soil retraction, and a second method, called adjusted, that considers thephenomenon of soil retraction. Soil samples have been collected in horizons A and B from six soil profiles Thus, for retractable soils, it isrecommended that the adjustment of the SWRC be carried out considering the actual volume of the soil (retracted), which varies for each matrix potential applied. This adjustment reduces errors, mainly in determining the permanent wilt point and available water.
Synthesis, structural characterization and functional properties of Sr0.5Ba0.5Nb2−xFexO6 ceramic powders
Authors: Enriquez Fuertes Juliana Paola , Molano Gabalán William Arbey , Guerrero Duymovic Alejandra Isabel , Ramírez Sanabria Alfonso Enrique , Gaona Jurado Sonia , Villaquirán Raigoza Claudia Fernanda
Published: May 2022

Sr0.5Ba0.5Nb2-xFexO6 (SBNF) ceramic powders for x=0.00, x=0.02 and x=0.03 were synthesized using coprecipitation method. The structure of the SBNF single phase with x=0.02 was identified by X-ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement; the morphology and size of the particles were observed by TEM and SEM-EDS microscopy. Electrical characterization showed that Fe doping did not cancel the typical ferroelectric relaxor behavior and magnetic characterization showed a weak ferromagnetic response, which suggest that the samples obtained can be considered as multiferroic.
On the resource consumption of Software quantum computing simulators
Authors: Díaz Gilberto Javier , Steffenel Luiz Angelo , Barrios Hernández Carlos Jaime
Published: May 2022

Recently, several real quantum devices have become available through the cloud. Nevertheless, they are expected to be very limited, in the near term, in the number and quality of the fundamental storage element, the qubit. Therefore, software quantum simulators are the only widely available tools to design and test quantum algorithms. However, the representation of quantum computing components in classical computers consumes a big amount of resources. This work describes how to model the main elements of quantum computing in a classical computer and depicts resource consumption using two popular quantum simulators. In the end, we discuss different approaches to overcome this problem.
Frequency-based methods for the detection of damage in structures: A chronological review
Authors: Caicedo Daniel , Lara-Valencia Luis A. , Brito José
Published: May 2022

Infrastructure development is a common feature of emerging countries. As a result, the design and construction of complex structures susceptible to damage is becoming increasingly common. Over the years, multiple advances in Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) haven allowed researchers and engineers to detect, locate, and quantify structural damage in critical components of civil engineering structures. Frequency-based methods have demonstrated their reliability in multiple numerical and experimental applications. This study presents a brief chronological literature review of methodologies based on frequency analysis that have been used in the detection ofstructural damage over the last forty years. It is worth noting that the paper focuses on computer-aided techniques such as artificial neuronal networks (ANN), genetic algorithms (GAs), and metaheuristics that have been employed to solve the inverse damage detection problem.
An Efficient Algorithm Applied to Optimized Billing Sequencing
Authors: Pinto Anderson Rogério Faia , Nagano Marcelo Seido
Published: May 2022

This paper addresses the Optimized Billing Sequencing (OBS) problem to maximize billing of the order portfolio of a typical Distribution Center (DC). This is a new problem in the literature, and the search for the best billing mix has generated demands for better optimization methods for DCs. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to provide an effective algorithm that presents quick and optimized solutions for higher-complexity OBS levels. This algorithm is called Iterative Greedy Algorithm (IGA-OBS), and its performance is compared to the genetic algorithm (GA-OBS) by Pinto and Nagano. Performance evaluations were carried out after intense computational experiments for problems with different complexity levels. The results demonstrate that the GA-OBS is limited to medium-size instances, whereas the IGA-OBS is better adapted to reality, providing OBS with solutions with satisfactory time and quality. The IGA-OBS enables managers to make decisions in a more agile and consistent way in terms of the trade-off between the level of customer service and the maximization of the financial result of DCs. This paper fills a gap in the literature, makes innovative contributions, and provides suggestions for further research aimed at developing more suitable optimization methods for OBS.
Semicontinuous Lixiviation Process for Compound Extraction from Cannabis sativa grown in Colombia
Authors: Buitrago Suescún Oscar Yecid , Santaella Serrano Miguel Augusto
Published: May 2022

The extraction of compounds present in Cannabis sativa biomass from Colombian crops was studied using a semi-continuous lixiviation process. To this effect, three extraction stages were implemented, in which successive transfers were carried out at fixed times, seeking to emulate a continuous countercurrent process. In this way, the intention is to provide the Colombian agroindustry with an extraction method that is efficient and requires a lower initial investment than other techniques such as supercritical fluid extraction. Absolute ethanol was used as solvent, and constant temperature and stirring speed were applied. The obtained results indicate that, once the process is stabilized, extracted mass percentages (with respect to the total mass on a dry basis) of 10,5% at 40 °C and 9,5% at 19 °C are achieved, which are competitive compared to the 11,07% achieved through Soxhlet extraction. Besides, the proposed process is clearly a better alternative than a single-stage extraction method, through which it was possible to extract 5% of the mass. Five cannabinoids were identified in the obtained extract, and, with the proposed process, it was possible to extract 66% of cannabidiol present in the original biomass.
Patrimonio, ciudad y educación: consideraciones conceptuales sobre formación de ciudadanía desde lo museal
Authors: Méndez Rocío Del Pilar
Published: May 2022

Este artículo problematiza conceptualmente las prácticas educativas inherentes a las acciones patrimoniales y su orientación hacia la formación de ciudadanía. Identifica dos dimensiones de la ciudadanía, una como expresión del civismo y otra como manifestación de la responsabilidad con el saber. El patrimonio opera en el ámbito de la transmisión cultural, como lo ejemplifico con el contexto de la ciudad. En las relaciones entre las prácticas educativas en torno al patrimonio y la ciudadanía se hace explícita la dimensión antropológica de los museos, que constituye la trayectoria por su reconocimiento como referentes de memoria cultural y dispositivos de representación y generación de rasgos identitarios.
Caminos divergentes: los itinerarios terapéuticos de una familia con un miembro en condición de discapacidad en Bogotá
Authors: Melo Ángela Patricia
Published: May 2022

El objetivo del presente artículo es trazar, a partir de un estudio de caso, los itinerarios terapéuticos por medio de los cuales una familia de cuidadores ha abordado la crianza de su hijo en condición de discapacidad. Doy cuenta de las múltiples relaciones que se establecen entre distintos actores durante ese proceso de atención. De igual manera, reflexiono sobre la labor de cuidado y sus implicaciones.