bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of age, seasonality, and reproductive status on the gut microbiome of Southern White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) at the North Carolina zoo
Authors: Burnham Christina M. , McKenney Erin A. , van Heugten Kimberly Ange- , Minter Larry J. , Trivedi Shweta
Published: May 2023

Background

Managed southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) serve as assurance populations for wild conspecifics threatened by poaching and other anthropocentric effects, though many managed populations experience subfertility and reproductive failure. Gut microbiome and host health are inextricably linked, and reproductive outcomes in managed southern white rhinoceros may be mediated in part by their diet and gut microbial diversity. Thus, understanding microbial dynamics within managed populations may help improve conservation efforts. We characterized the taxonomic composition of the gut microbiome in the managed population of female southern white rhinoceros (n = 8) at the North Carolina Zoo and investigated the effects of seasonality (summer vs. winter) and age classes (juveniles (n = 2; 0–2 years), subadults (n = 2; 3–7 years), and adults (n = 4; >7 years)) on microbial richness and community structure. Collection of a fecal sample was attempted for each individual once per month from July-September 2020 and January-March 2021 resulting in a total of 41 samples analyzed. Microbial DNA was extracted and sequenced using the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA bacterial gene. Total operational taxonomic units (OTUs), alpha diversity (species richness, Shannon diversity), and beta diversity (Bray-Curtis dissimilarity, linear discriminant analysis effect size) indices were examined, and differentially enriched taxa were identified.

Results

There were differences (p < 0.05) in alpha and beta diversity indices across individuals, age groups, and sampling months. Subadult females had higher levels of Shannon diversity (Wilcoxon, p < 0.05) compared to adult females and harbored a community cluster distinct from both juveniles and adults. Samples collected during winter months (January-March 2021) possessed higher species richness and statistically distinct communities compared to summer months (July-September 2020) (PERMANOVA, p < 0.05). Reproductively active (n = 2) and currently nonreproductive adult females (n = 2) harbored differentially enriched taxa, with the gut microbiome of nonreproductive females significantly enriched (p = 0.001) in unclassified members of Mobiluncus, a genus which possesses species associated with poor reproductive outcomes in other animal species when identified in the cervicovaginal microbiome.

Conclusion

Together, our results increase the understanding of age and season related microbial variation in southern white rhinoceros at the North Carolina Zoo and have identified a potential microbial biomarker for reproductive concern within managed female southern white rhinoceros.
Reclaimed water in Taiwan: current status and future prospects
Authors: Cheng Hai-Hsuan , Yu Wan-Sheng , Tseng Shu-Chuang , Wu Yi-Ju , Hsieh Ching-Lin , Lin Shi-Shuan , Chu Ching-Ping , Huang Yu-De , Chen Wan-Ru , Lin Tsair-Fuh , Whang Liang-Ming
Published: May 2023

According to the Taiwan Water Resources Agency, Ministry of Economic Affairs, the average water demand shortage is 530.6 million m3 yr−1 during the period of 2011 to 2019, and the situation will worsen in the near future due to global climate change. Therefore, reclaimed water has been an important new water source in Taiwan, particularly for industrial consumers such as high-tech industries in Science Parks. In order to meet the targeted reclaimed water supply of 1.32 million m3 d−1 (CMD) in 2031, Taiwan is focusing on two major reclaimed water sources, including reclaimed water from high water-consuming industries and municipal wastewater treatment plants. This report reviews current technologies used for reclaimed water including units for pretreatment, desalting, polishing, and reclamation. Case studies in Taiwan including reclaimed water from high water-consuming industries such as thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD) and semiconductor industries, as well as from municipal wastewater treatment plants are presented. The TFT-LCD company Innolux and semiconductor company Advaned Semiconductor Engineering have implemented total recycled water system to recycle and reclaim wastewater from manufacturing processes, achieving a total recycled water of 290 million m3 yr−1 with about 97% recovery and 3.5 million m3 yr−1 with 80% recovery, respectively. The Fengshan reclaimed water treatment plant produces 40,436 CMD reclaimed water from municipal wastewater for the China Steel Cooperation’s steel-making processes, at an overall operation and maintenance cost of 11.5 NT dollars m−3. Meanwhile the Yongkang plant produces 15,500 CMD of reclaimed water for semiconductor and TFT-LCD manufacturing processes at an overall operation and maintenance costs of 25.8 NT dollars m−3, which is due to low urea and boron limits requested by the user. Finally, challenges and future prospects for promoting the use of reclaimed water to meet the targeted supply in 2031 will be discussed.
Investigation of the effect of N-acetylcysteine on serum levels of oxidative inflammatory biomarkers in patients with stroke
Authors: Farzandway Mohammad , Elieh-Ali-Komi Daniel , Mohammadi Noori Ehsan , Goudarzi Farjam , Ashayeri Ahmadabad Rezan , Eshraghi Azadeh , Mirzaasgari Zahra , Navabi Seyed Mohammad , Kiani Amir
Published: May 2023

Background

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a tolerable and safe drug capable of reducing free radicals and other oxidants. We included 74 individuals with ischemic stroke in this randomized, single-blind clinical trial and placed them into intervention (n = 37) and control (n = 37) groups. In the intervention group, in addition to standard treatment for ischemic stroke, they received NAC at a dose of 100 mg/kg bolus and then at a dose of 10 mg/kg/h for 10 h. The control group received only standard stroke treatment. Blood samples were taken before starting NAC and standard stroke treatment and 24 h after receiving the drug to measure the catalase, paraoxonase, malondialdehyde (MDA), neopterin, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and total oxidant status (TOS) parameters. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) was also calculated before and after 24 h, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months after starting the drug.

Results

There was no significant difference between the results of parameters before and after standard treatment in control group; however, NAC could significantly reduce TOS (P = 0.02) in the intervention group. Moreover, NAC administration could notably decrease NIHSS calculated at each time point when compared to control group. After subgrouping the intervention group, NAC could increase catalase (P < 0.001), paraoxonase (P < 0.001), and TAC (P < 0.001) while decreased MDA (P < 0.001), neopterin (P = 0.001) and TOS (P < 0.001) significantly in intervention-responding subgroup and decreased NIHSS significantly at each monitored time point.

Conclusion

NAC can be promising as a complementary drug and a powerful antioxidant in reducing oxidative stress and improving cognitive function in individuals with stroke.
Evidence of Persistent Mild Hypercortisolism in Patients Medically Treated for Cushing Disease: the Haircush Study
Authors: Mohammedi Kamel , Bertherat Jerome , Raverot Gerald , Drui Delphine , Reznik Yves , Castinetti Frederic , Chanson Philippe , Fafin Manon , Brossaud Julie , Tabarin Antoine
Published: May 2023

Context

Cortisol-lowering drugs may not restore a normal cortisol secretion in Cushing disease (CD).

Objective

This work aimed to assess the long-term cortisol exposure in medically treated CD patients using hair-cortisol (HF) and hair-cortisone (HE) measurement.

Methods

This multicenter prospective study included 3 groups of female patients: CushMed = 16 treated with a stable cortisol-lowering drug dosage and normal urinary free cortisol (UFC); CushSurg = 13 cured by pituitary surgery; CushBla = 15 receiving stable recommended doses of hydrocortisone following bilateral adrenalectomy. Patients were evaluated for 3 months with their usual treatments. Two late-night saliva and 24-hour urine samples were collected monthly in CushMed, and at study end in CushSurg and CushBla patients. A 3-cm hair sample was collected at study end from all patients. Main outcome measures included clinical score and centralized measurement of UFC, late-night salivary cortisol (LNSF), late-night salivary cortisone (LNSE), HE, HF.

Results

Despite having almost all UFCs normalized, CushMed patients exhibited increased HE as compared to CushSurg controls (P = .003). CushMed patients also had increased clinical score (P = .001), UFC (P = .03), LNSF, LNSE (P = .0001), and variability in the latter parameters (P = .004). CushBla patients had increased HF and HE, contrasting with LNSEs similar to CushSurg patients. Six of 15 CushMed patients exhibited increased HE concentrations and had increased antihypertensive drug dosage compared to CushMed patients with normal HE (P = .05).

Conclusion

Despite normalized UFCs, a subset of medically treated CD patients displays an altered circadian rhythm of serum cortisol. A single HE measurement identifies chronic mild persistent hypercortisolism and could replace multiple saliva analyzes to monitor medical treatments in CD patients once UFC is normalized.
Project SPRUCE: Saving Our Planet by Reducing Carbon Emissions, a Pediatric Anesthesia Sustainability Quality Improvement Initiative
Authors: Hansen Elizabeth E. , Chiem Jennifer L. , Righter-Foss Kimberly , Zha Yuanting , Cockrell Hannah C. , Greenberg Sarah L. M. , Low Daniel K. , Martin Lynn D.
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND:

Children are particularly vulnerable to adverse health outcomes related to climate change. Inhalational anesthetics are potent greenhouse gasses (GHGs) and contribute significantly to health care–generated emissions. Desflurane and nitrous oxide have very high global warming potentials. Eliminating their use, as well as lowering fresh gas flows (FGFs), will lead to reduced emissions.

METHODS:

Using published calculations for converting volatile anesthetic concentrations to carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e), we derived the average kilograms (kg) CO2e/min for every anesthetic administered in the operating rooms at our pediatric hospital and ambulatory surgical center between October 2017 and October 2022. We leveraged real-world data captured from our electronic medical record systems and used AdaptX to extract and present those data as statistical process control (SPC) charts. We implemented recommended strategies aimed at reducing emissions from inhalational anesthetics, including removing desflurane vaporizers, unplugging nitrous oxide hoses, decreasing the default anesthesia machine FGF, clinical decision support tools, and educational initiatives. Our primary outcome measure was average kg CO2e/min.

RESULTS:

A combination of educational initiatives, practice constraints, protocol changes, and access to real-world data were associated with an 87% reduction in measured GHG emissions from inhaled anesthesia agents used in the operating rooms over a 5-year period. Shorter cases (<30 minutes duration) had 3 times higher average CO2e, likely due to higher FGF and nitrous oxide use associated with inhalational inductions, and higher proportion of mask-only anesthetics. Removing desflurane vaporizers corresponded with a >50% reduction of CO2e. A subsequent decrease in anesthesia machine default FGF was associated with a similarly robust emissions reduction. Another significant decrease in emissions was noted with educational efforts, clinical decision support alerts, and feedback from real-time data.

CONCLUSIONS:

Providing environmentally responsible anesthesia in a pediatric setting is a challenging but achievable goal, and it is imperative to help mitigate the impact of climate change. Large systems changes, such as eliminating desflurane, limiting access to nitrous oxide, and changing default anesthesia machine FGF rates, were associated with rapid and lasting emissions reduction. Measuring and reporting GHG emissions from volatile anesthetics allows practitioners to explore and implement methods of decreasing the environmental impact of their individual anesthesia delivery practices.
Utility of Electrical Stimulation for Correct Placement and Neuromodulation of the Erector Spinae Plane Block for Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Case Report
Authors: Boublik Jan , Kim Richard K. , Tsui Ban C.
Published: May 2023

The role of neuromodulation in fascial plane blocks is unknown. This case report presents a complex patient who underwent shoulder arthroplasty with a high thoracic-erector spinae plane (HT-ESP) catheter that provided electrical and chemical neuromodulation, highlighting the potential of electrical stimulation in the identification of and therapy at the fascial plane level.
Terrorism, political survival and political transitions
Authors: Τσάβου Ευαγγελία
Published: May 2023

Στην παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή διερευνάται η σχέση τρομοκρατικής δραστηριότητας και ποικίλων δομικών και στρατηγικών χαρακτηριστικών του πολιτικού, οικονομικού, φυσικού περιβάλλοντος. Αρχικά, εξετάζεται η επίδραση ενός τρομοκρατικού στην πολιτική επιβίωση των εν ενεργεία ηγετών. Προκύπτει ότι οι υβριδικοί αυταρχικοί ηγέτες αντιμετωπίζουν αυξημένο κίνδυνο εξόδου από την πολιτική εξουσία, σε αντίθεση με τους αμιγώς αυταρχικούς και δημοκρατικούς ομολόγους τους. Στη συνέχεια, διερευνούμε πώς η ασθένεια των ηγετών επηρεάζει την τρομοκρατική δραστηριότητα. Φαίνεται ότι χώρες που κυβερνώνται από ασθενείς ηγέτες αντιμετωπίζουν χαμηλότερο κίνδυνο εγχώριας και αυξημένο κίνδυνο διεθνούς τρομοκρατίας. Στη συνέχεια, εξετάζουμε πώς οι φυσικές καταστροφές συμβάλλουν στην τρομοκρατική δραστηριότητα, διακρίνοντας μεταξύ στρατιωτικών και γραφειοκρατικά ικανών κρατών. Αποδεικνύεται ότι τα πρώτα είναι επιρρεπή σε αυξημένες εγχώριες επιθέσεις μετά από μια φυσική καταστροφή, σε αντίθεση με τα γραφειοκρατικά ικανά κράτη. Τέλος, αξιολογείται η μακροπρόθεσμη επίδραση της διεθνούς τρομοκρατίας στις πολιτικές ελευθερίες των στοχευμένων κρατών, καταλήγοντας ότι οι επιθέσεις που στοχεύουν δημοκρατίες καταστέλλουν τον σεβασμό των πολιτικών ελευθεριών μακροπρόθεσμα, σε αντίθεση με αυτές προς τις δικτατορίες. Οι υπεύθυνοι χάραξης πολιτικής θα πρέπει να δώσουν προτεραιότητα στην ενίσχυση της διεθνούς συνεργασίας και τη δημιουργία δεσμών ασφαλείας μεταξύ των χωρών για την καταπολέμηση της τρομοκρατίας.
Ο ρόλος των διευθυντών/τριών στην πρόληψη κι αντιμετώπιση της σχολικής βίας και του σχολικού εκφοβισμού στα δημοτικά σχολεία
Authors: Κατσικάς Απόστολος
Published: May 2023

Η σχολική βία κι ο σχολικός εκφοβισμός αποτελούν ζητήματα που απασχολούν έντονα την εκπαιδευτική κοινότητα. Για την αντιμετώπισή τους οι εκπαιδευτικοί εφαρμόζουν διάφορες πρακτικές, μεταξύ των οποίων και την παραπομπή των περιστατικών στους/στις διευθυντές/τριες των σχολείων, οι οποίοι/ες διαδραματίζουν σημαντικό ρόλο στην αντιμετώπιση αυτών των φαινομένων. Σκοπός της παρούσας έρευνας είναι να εξετάσει τις απόψεις των διευθυντών/τριών Δημοτικών Σχολείων, αναφορικά με τον ρόλο τους στην πρόληψη κι αντιμετώπιση της σχολικής βίας και του σχολικού εκφοβισμού. Εξετάζονται η συχνότητα, η ένταση και οι μορφές της σχολικής βίας και του σχολικού εκφοβισμού, ο χώρος και ο χρόνος που εκδηλώνονται, οι παράγοντες που επιδρούν στην εμφάνισή τους, οι επιπτώσεις που έχουν στους/στις μαθητές/τριες και τη σχολική ζωή, οι πρακτικές αντιμετώπισης που υιοθετούνται στο σχολείο, οι λόγοι παραπομπής των περιστατικών από τους/τις εκπαιδευτικούς, ο ρόλος των διευθυντών/τριών και οι προτάσεις τους για την πρόληψη κι αντιμετώπισή τους. Για τη συλλογή των δεδομένων εφαρμόστηκε ερευνητικό σχέδιο μεικτών μεθόδων. Το ερευνητικό εργαλείο που χρησιμοποιήθηκε στην ποσοτική έρευνα ήταν το ερωτηματολόγιο και στην ποιοτική η ημιδομημένη συνέντευξη. Δείγμα της ποσοτικής έρευνας αποτέλεσαν 512 διευθυντές/τριες Δημοτικών Σχολείων και της ποιοτικής 21 διευθυντές/τριες. Η έρευνα πραγματοποιήθηκε από τον Απρίλιο έως τον Ιούνιο του 2021. Από τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας προκύπτει ότι στο Δημοτικό Σχολείο, η σχολική βία κι ο σχολικός εκφοβισμός αποτελεί λίγο συχνό φαινόμενο και αφορά, κυρίως, ήπια περιστατικά. Οι συχνότερες μορφές βίας είναι η λεκτική βία, η μη λεκτική, η σωματική και η ειρωνεία/κοροϊδίες/υποτίμηση. Τα περιστατικά αυτά είναι ήπια κι εκδηλώνονται, συνήθως, στο προαύλιο του σχολείου. Οι πιο σημαντικοί παράγοντες που επιδρούν στην υιοθέτηση παραβατικής συμπεριφοράς από τους/τις μαθητές/τριες είναι η οικογένεια, τα ΜΜΕ και η παρέα συνομήλικων. Για την αντιμετώπιση της σχολικής βίας και του σχολικού εκφοβισμού, οι εκπαιδευτικοί εφαρμόζουν, συνήθως, πρακτικές με παιδαγωγικό χαρακτήρα. Ωστόσο, πολύ συχνά παραπέμπουν περιστατικά στους/στις διευθυντές/τριες για να τα διαχειριστούν, επειδή δεν έχουν τον απαιτούμενο χρόνο στη διάθεσή τους ή αδυνατούν να τα επιλύσουν. Οι διευθυντές/τριες διαχειρίζονται, συνήθως, σοβαρά και επαναλαμβανόμενα περιστατικά σωματικής και λεκτικής βίας κι εκφοβισμού. Για την αντιμετώπισή τους εφαρμόζουν, κυρίως, παιδαγωγικές πρακτικές, όπως είναι η συζήτηση σε ατομικό και συλλογικό επίπεδο και η συνεργασία με τους γονείς/κηδεμόνες, τους/τις εκπαιδευτικούς, ειδικούς επιστήμονες και διάφορους θεσμικούς φορείς.
The genome sequence of Molossus nigricans (Chiroptera, Molossidae; Miller, 1902)
Authors: Simmons Nancy B. , Ingala Melissa R. , Pieri Myrtani , Volkert Thomas L. , Singh Larry N. , Philip Philge , Lindsey Laramie L. , Zhang Ning , Gray Jonathan L. , O'Toole Brian P. , Mai Meike , Teeling Emma C. , Vernes Sonja C. ,   the Bat Biology Foundation,   the Bat1K Consortium
Published: May 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Molossus nigricans (Chordata; Mammalia; Chiroptera; Molossidae). The genome sequence is 2.41 gigabases in span. The majority of the assembly is scaffolded into 24 chromosomal pseudomolecules, with the X sex chromosome assembled.
Shielding individuals at high risk of COVID-19: A micro-simulation study
Authors: Van Zandvoort Kevin , Favas Caroline , Checchi Francesco
Published: May 2023

Background: One proposed intervention for mitigating COVID-19 epidemics, particularly in low-income and crisis-affected settings, is to physically isolate individuals at high risk of severe disease and death. This intervention, known as ‘shielding’, could be implemented in various ways. If shielding is imperfect, any introduction of infections within the shielding group could cause substantial mortality and negate the intervention’s benefits. We explored the effectiveness of shielding under various modalities of implementation and considered mitigation measures to reduce possible harms.

Methods: We used an individual-based model to simulate a COVID-19 epidemic in a population where a fraction above a given age are relocated to shielding residences. We set our simulation with the context of an internally displaced persons’ camp in Somaliland, for which we had previously collected data on demographics and social mixing patterns. We compared an unmitigated epidemic with a shielding intervention accompanied by various risk-mitigating measures. We explored the impact of parameters such as residence size, reduction in contacts, basic reproduction number, and prior immunity in the population.

Results: Shielded residences are likely to be breached with infection during the outbreak. Nonetheless, shielding can be effective in preventing COVID-19 infections in the shielded population. The effectiveness of shielding is mostly affected by the size of the shielded residence, and by the degree by which contacts with the outside world are reduced. Reductions in contacts between shielded individuals are only effective in larger shielded residences. In epidemics with a lower reproduction number, the effectiveness of shielding could be negative.

Conclusions: Shielding could be an effective method to protect the most at-risk individuals. It should be considered where other measures cannot easily be implemented, but with attention to the epidemiological situation. Shielding should only be implemented through small to medium-sized shielding residences, with appropriate mitigation measures to prevent subsequent spread.
Current strategies of the brachial plexus palsy management
Authors: Tokarzewska Agata , Korga Mateusz , Kowalczyk Adrian , Małyska Justyna , Tybulczuk Balbina , Sikora Katarzyna , Baj Jacek
Published: May 2023

The importance of brachial plexus palsy treatment is associated with its significant severity, along with Brachial plexus palsies can be treated by means of many different surgical and non-surgical methods which allow regeneration of full efficiency of the affected limb. The choice of method depends on such factors as type and region of injury, patient’s age or clinical presentation of the injury. The purpose of this review is to present current strategies of treating brachial plexus palsies, depending on therapeutic needs of the particular patient. This is a review study based upon selective literature overview, with emphasis on works published within past 13 years. 6 separate methods of brachial plexus palsy were assessed, without distinction of the reason of palsy occurring. Some of the invasive methods include operative treatment performed directly on occupied nervous tissue, such as microneural plexus reconstruction and nerve transfers (lower subscapular nerve transfer and contralateral C7 nerve transfer) whilst the others revolve around restoration of function of affected neighboring structures by themselves, e.g. shoulder tendon transfers. Rehabilitation and botulinum toxin-based treatment are non-operative methods revolving around enhancement of the function of the affected upper limb. Main measure of effectiveness of the treatment is assessment of the range of motion of the affected limb (ROM). There is still not enough information available regarding long-term efficiency of microneural plexus reconstruction and botulinum toxin-based treatment. They require further investigation while other methods are used commonly.
Celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity – characteristics and differences
Authors: Kulik Kacper , Fryska Zuzanna , Wołejko Adam , Kuciński Jakub , Semeniuk Paweł , Matusz Krystian , Burczyk Rafał , Górna Natalie , Łabuda Adam
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Celiac disease is a quite common condition resulting from the interaction of genetic, immunological, and environmental factors, with the main environmental factor being exposure to gluten. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) affects individuals without celiac disease or wheat allergy and is characterized by intestinal and extraintestinal symptoms related to the consumption of grain products, without accompanying damage to the intestinal mucosa.

Discussion

Gluten is a grain protein that is resistant to digestive enzymes and accumulates in the intestines, leading to tissue damage and the release of tissue transglutaminase 2 (tTG2) enzyme, which increases gluten immunogenicity. The presence of HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 gene variants in the genome is a necessary condition for the development of the disease, but it does not always lead to celiac disease. The pathomechanism of non-celiac gluten sensitivity is not yet fully understood. Diagnosis of celiac disease involves serological tests, genetic tests, and histological examination.

Conclusions

The only effective treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet, which involves eliminating wheat, rye, barley, and triticale from one's diet. Further research is necessary to search for effective therapies. The approach for NCGS involves introducing an appropriate diet - either low FODMAP or gluten-free.
El inventario de 1857. Los primeros fondos de la Biblioteca de la ETSAM.
Authors: González Izquierdo José Manuel
Published: May 2023

Los libros y revistas son unos de los medios históricos fundamentales para establecer y comprender los métodos didácticos de la Composición arquitectónica. Uno de estos periodos editoriales de gran interés fue la creación de la Escuela Especial de Arquitectura, establecida desde la Academia con nuevos requerimientos técnicos y programáticos desde mediados del siglo XIX. Situándose en este momento fundacional, el presente articulo estudia los primeros fondos de la Biblioteca de la ETSAM recogidos en un inventario del año 1857, con el fin de comprender su relevancia y significado para la enseñanza de la arquitectura y los medios editoriales disponibles para ello. El estudio realizado ha mostrado el interés de la Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura de Madrid (ETSAM) por las EL INVENTARIO DE 1857. LOS PRIMEROS FONDOS DE LA BIBLIOTECA DE LA ETSAM* José Manuel González Izquierdo UPM, Departamento de Composición Arquitectónica, ETSAM, España josemanuel.gonzalez.izquierdo@alumnos.upm.es ASTRÁGALO. Cultura de la Arquitectura y de la Ciudad, 31 (2023). ISSNe: 2469-0503 Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike. Article https://dx.doi.org/10.12795/astragalo.2023.i31.03 Recibido: 2022-12-14 Aprobado: 2023-02-23 fuentes patrimoniales, centradas en la presencia de autores como como Gian Battista Piranesi, Luigi Canina o J.J. Winckelmann, asumiendo en cierta medida el papel que las estampas de Roma tuvieron en las décadas precedentes. Han emergido nuevos métodos de proyecto, con los estudios tipológicos y los repertorios de obras contemporáneas como sistema documental. Aparecen nuevos formatos como las publicaciones periódicas, con gran interés por los contenidos relacionados por el fomento y las técnicas materiales, así como la misma atención al patrimonio y el proyecto. Las obras españolas establecen una cierta continuidad con los intereses de la Academia, además de sumergirse en las nuevas tendencias documentales descritas anteriormente. En resumen, un marco general de resultados que ha permitido comprender el papel de la edición en el aprendizaje de la arquitectura en este momento histórico.
Carácter y composición de lugar en la arquitectura de Luciano Kulczewski. Conjuntos residenciales de Providencia, Santiago de Chile (1929-1935).
Authors: Diez Ronald Harris , González Erices Daniel , Veraguas Caripan Ignacio
Published: May 2023

Este texto aborda dos conjuntos habitacionales inéditos para la historiografía oficial, realizados por el destacado arquitecto Luciano Kulczewski entre 1929 y 1935 en la comuna de Providencia, Santiago de Chile, barrio que para aquella época ya evidenciaba las primeras propuestas urbanas modernas inspiradas en el concepto de barrio-jardín. Junto con darlos a conocer, no solo se busca realzar sus méritos arquitectónicos, directamente relacionados con la sensibilidad estética de su creador, sino que también reconocer cómo éstos reflejan los complejos procesos socioculturales por los que entonces atravesaba el país, tanto desde el rol que debió asumir el Estado en tanto responsable de promulgar las leyes que permitieron gestar estos conjuntos, como el que le correspondió ejercer a las comunidades con el fin de lograr el anhelado sueño de la casa propia. Este artículo centra su atención en la dimensión habitacional de estos espacios, en la medida que Kulczeswki habría puesto particular esmero en aquellos aspectos del diseño arquitectónico y urbanístico que favorecieran, por parte de sus usuarios, una proyección sentimental, logrando con ello que estos conjuntos fueran recepcionados como ‘lugares’. Así, el cuidadoso manejo de la capacidad expresiva, o ‘carácter’ (Rowe 1980), tanto de las residencias como del conjunto en su totalidad, resulta inevitable.
POR UMA CIDADANIA DIGITAL: ENSINO DE HISTÓRIA E NOVAS TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS DE INFORMAÇÃO E COMUNICAÇÃO.
Authors: Peçanha Natália Batista , Alexandre Maria Lúcia Bezerra da Silva
Published: May 2023

Nos últimos anos nos deparamos com uma expansão do consumo das informações via meios digitais, isto facilitou a obtenção de conteúdos e democratização do acesso às informações, mas ampliou, em igual proporção, o enfrentamento de fakenews, negacionismos e apropriações de conteúdos históricos sem rigor científico.Trazer essas discussões para o ensino de História é permitir uma reflexão acerca de como professores(as)/ pesquisadores (as) buscam práticas que podem se valer ou não das novas tecnologias de informação e comunicação, para a construção de uma “historiografia digital”, além de permitir uma reflexão do papel do/a historiador/a em sua atuação no espaço público.
Supporting families during baby loss
Authors: Lloyd Sarah
Published: May 2023

Beyond Bea helps support families who experience baby loss. Their resource, the ‘alternative birth bag’, provides important information to families going through this difficult experience
Midwives' knowledge, education and training in providing care to women with female genital mutilation
Authors: Musse Ladan Abdirashid
Published: May 2023

Background/Aims

Around 200 million women have undergone some type of cut, change or removal of the outer part of their genitalia. Midwives play a central role in recognising and providing support to women who have suffered from female genital mutilation. The aim of this study was to understand midwives' role in supporting women with female genital mutilation by exploring their knowledge, education and training.

Methods

A systematic review of both qualitative and quantitative research published between 2010 and 2020 was carried out. A total of nine articles were selected, following screening and quality assessment, for inclusion in the review.

Results

Midwives' lack of knowledge and confidence regarding appropriate care for women with female genital mutilation highlights the urgent need for evidence-based research. Furthermore, midwives' knowledge and training needs to be improved to enhance care for women with female genital mutilation.

Conclusions

Female genital mutilation affects a variety of countries, and, in recent times, has developed into a global public health concern. Midwives play a crucial role in recognising and providing support to women who have experienced female genital mutilation.
Protein Prediction using Dictionary Based Regression Learning
Authors: Rani T. Sudha , Babu A. Yesu , Haritha D.
Published: May 2023

Research Objectives: Molecular genetic data is managed by the information technology known as bioinformatics. Major concept involved in bioinformatics is a protein sequence. Amino acids bonded with peptide bond constitute the sequence of Protein and it is very essential to lead life. To predict sequence of amino acid, primary sequence obtains amino sequence folding and structures prediction.
Research Novelty: In this manuscript, dictionary based regression learning and fuzzy genetic algorithm is proposed for protein prediction from structural analysis (DRL-FGA-PD-SA). In this input data are taken from Kaggle domain dataset. The extraction of protein features from given data is made through Kernel Matrix (KM) which extracts composition of amino acids, composition of dipeptide, composition of pseudo-amino-acid, composition of functional domain and distance-based features. Then fuzzy based genetic algorithm (FGA) update the selected features for classification of protein and the features are clustered. Finally, dictionary based regression learning (DRL) predicts the class of protein with conversion of values either 0’s or 1’s.
Research Conclusions: The proposed method is executed on MATLAB. Here evaluation metrics as sensitivity, precision, f-measure, specificity, accuracy and error rate are outlined. Then the performance of the proposed DRL-FGA-PD-SA method provides 22.08%, 24.03%, 34.76% higher accuracy, 23.34%, 26.45%, 34.44% higher precision, compared with the existing systems such assdeep learning methods in protein structure prediction (FFNN-RNN-PD-SA), deep learning technique for protein structure prediction and protein design (DNN-PD-SA) and improved protein structure prediction using potentials from deep learning (DNN-SGDA-PD-SA) respectively.
The Disruptive Innovation Potential and Business Case Investment Sensitivity of Open RAN
Authors: Kyoseva Tsvetoslava , Poulkov Vladimir , Lindgren Peter
Published: May 2023

Every telecom constantly faces the dilemma of when to invest in the next generation infrastructure network and how the investment would be monetized. The telco value proposition comprises products, services, processes, technologies, and network infrastructure. This paper explores making the business case out of Open RAN investment for a 5G network, where Open RAN is further researched if telcos perceive it as radical or disruptive innovation. As part of the research, different telecom companies are approached with a set of questions. The results are analysed and mapped in a Business Model Innovation chart. Furthermore, this paper also covers an analysis related to evaluating the sensitivity of how profitable a telco could be depending on Open RAN TCO investment for 5G deployments and the number of customers using value propositions – products, services and processes. Two sensitivity scenarios are simulated so various combinations could be observed before taking any further decision for Open RAN 5G business model implementation.
Hyperledger Fabric-based Reliable Personal Health Information Sharing Model
Authors: Bong Jinsook , Jang Uijin
Published: May 2023

To provide optimized individual-oriented medical service, an open eco system is required so that personal health information could be safely recorded, managed, shared and viewed.
However, the current health information is being separately collected, stored, managed by various management institutions, so data linkage is not guaranteed. The data ownership for personal health information belongs to management entities not an individual and also health information is electronically recorded and managed, so it’s vulnerable to forgery and leakage like other electronic data.
This paper proposes a personal health information sharing platform applying the Hyperledger fabric. The proposed platform was designed based on blockchain to provide user-oriented health information management and access rights. Therefore, it is possible to create, manage and share reliable medical data.
Live Streaming Contents Influencing Game Playing Behavior Among Thailand Gamers
Authors: Kongrit Thanaphol , Kiattisin Supaporn
Published: May 2023

This paper studies online game engagement in Thailand gaming communities. ‘Planned Behavior’ is the theory used in this study and it explains factors in order to determine the sustainability of the online gaming business. The theoretical research model of the paper focuses on flow experience, human-computer interaction, social interaction, and perceived enjoyment. A quantitative method has been used to measure the implications and data was collected from 800 participants’ online gamer via streaming tournament. The key findings show that the conveyed player attitudes and the flow experience have a positive influence on players’ continued intention to play an online game via Live-streaming. Hence Live-streaming is also an online game community connector and can be used as an indicator on the engagement of a sustainable game industry.
A Conceptual Model of Personalized Virtual Reality Trail Running Gamification Design
Authors: Suteeca Raslapat , Ayuthaya Smitti Darakorn Na , Kiattisin Supaporn
Published: May 2023

Individuals’ running styles define trail running. Diverse motivational strategies for running emerge because of diverse running behaviors. Customizable design for motivation: when it comes to environmental considerations during a product’s or service’s use stage, the design process has become increasingly focused on behavior. Virtual reality enables the creation and integration of a variety of environments, as well as the redesign, retesting, and enhancement of these environments within a virtual computing structure. These benefits exist because players’ perspectives and behaviors in virtual environments are more comparable to those in their physical environments. The purpose of this study is to create a model for the relationship between persuasive strategy, user personal factors and target behavior that is effective based on the Social Cognitive Model, two hypotheses are tested using structural equation modelling (SEM). According to the findings, persuasive strategies have a significant positive influence on user personal factors. Second, user personal factors were able to influence target behaviors. To increase intrinsic motivation, virtual reality application designers should support persuasive tactics such as goal setting and self-monitoring in a target context. These results may guide designers in selecting effective persuasion strategies for various user groups.
The role of indigenous knowledge and practice on water and soil conservation management in Albuko Woreda, Ethiopia
Authors: TAYE ADDIS , MEGENTO TEBAREK LIKA
Published: May 2023

Abstract Taye A, Megento TL. 2017. The role of indigenous knowledge and practice on water and soil conservation management in Albuko Woreda, Ethiopia. Bonorowo Wetlands 7: 95-107. The objectives of this study were to assess various aspects of indigenous knowledge and practice in water and soil conservation measures introduced in Albuko Woreda/district, South Wollo, Ethiopia, and investigate how farmers have adopted indigenous soil and water conservation measures. This study also aimed to examine farmers' views on land degradation and assess their adoption behavior of soil and water conservation knowledge. The data for the study originated mainly from farmers in the study area. Structured questionnaire survey and focus group discussion methods were applied to collect the necessary information from farm households. A total of 140 heads of families were questioned. The received data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and quantitative and qualitative data analysis. Even though some soil and water conservation methods were introduced to combat land degradation in Ethiopia, adopting these practices remains below expectations. Most farmers preferred soil (stone) bund, water diversion ditch and contour ploughing for soil and water conservation, crop rotation, and mixed cropping for soil fertility amendment measures instead of traditional cutoff drain and fallowing. Farmers faced several constraints in adopting soil and water conservation measures. The main problems related to conservation structures include the source of pests, inconveniency during ox ploughing, reduction of farmland, labor intensiveness, difficulty in implementation, and costliness. In contrast, farmers were knowledgeable about various indigenous soil and water conservation measures but implemented only some of them. They understand the effects of erosion on crop productivity. Finally, farmers need to be trained on the impact of soil erosion and available conservation measures. Information on the ineffectiveness of some traditional conservation measures has to be disseminated among farmers.
A cognitive approach to the allegedly left-headed prefix verbs in German:
Authors: Baeskow Heike
Published: May 2023

In this article, the much discussed problem of apparently left-headed German prefix verbs (e. g. besohlen ‘sole’, erschneidern ‘obtain by tailoring’, verschimmeln ‘become mouldy’) will be addressed from a cognitive perspective. It will be argued that nominal bases are metonymically reconceptualized as events inside the derivatives. This proposal has two advantages over previous approaches. First, it is not necessary to assign verbal or verbalizing properties to the prefixes be-, ent-, er-, ver-, and zer-, which have their origin in prepositions or adverbs. Secondly, an overgeneration of virtual verbs, i. e. of verbs which are not or no longer attested (e. g. *dachen ‘roof’, †sohlen ‘sole’) is avoided because the metonymic and hence purely conceptual verbalization process takes place in the context of the inseparable prefixes. The prefixes neither change the word-class of their bases nor provide argument structures, which are predicted by a small set of conceptual event schemata. The function of the prefixes is rather to add semantic or aspectual information. Synchronic support for the proposal to be presented first of all comes from the fact that conversion, which historically preceded prefixation in German, is still active. Contrastive analyses of English and German non-derived denominal verbs will illustrate this point. Moreover, many prefix verbs still co-exist with non-derived denominal verbs (e. g. schottern (< Schotter ‘gravel, ballast’) vs. beschottern, entschottern, verschottern). A more general observation is that the compatibility of denominal verbs with the holistic (or ‘synoptic’) perspective conveyed by the inseparable prefixes depends on the metonymic patterns underlying these verbs.
Manipulative impact of implicit communication:
Authors: Cominetti Federica , Cimmino Doriana , Coppola Claudia , Mannaioli Giorgia , Masia Viviana
Published: May 2023

This paper presents the application of a quantitative model for measuring the impact of manipulative implicit linguistic strategies on a small comparable corpus of Italian, German and French political discourses. The aim is to show the cross-linguistic applicability of the model, originally developed and put to test on Italian. Furthermore, the analysis allows a quantitative and qualitative comparison of the three comparable corpora: some statistical correlations and tendencies in the frequency and type of linguistic implicit strategies are presented and put in relation not only with the language, but also with the political orientation of the speaker and with other parameters (context, subject, rhetorical style). Results show that the model can be applied to multiple languages and that inter- and intra-linguistic tendencies in the use of manipulative implicit linguistic strategies can be appreciated.
So witzig wie möglich, so ernst wie nötig:
Authors: Guhe Sabrina
Published: May 2023

This paper exposes the idea of humour as a strategy for coping with the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. By focusing on the Swiss federal council’s media conferences, it aims at evaluating specific linguistic and thematic features which constitute humour. The analysis highlights the importance of everyday topics in dealing with the coronavirus and shows that the humorous potentiality in the press conferences’ oral communications is specified by laughing expressions and even more so that the humorous interactions occur at specific moments.
Digitale Übersetzungsprogramme und Online-Wörterbücher im Fremdsprachenunterricht:
Authors: Udry Isabelle , Berthele Raphael
Published: May 2023

This survey investigates teacher and student perceptions and beliefs relating to the use of digital translation tools and online dictionaries (e. g. Google Translate, DeepL, Leo, Pons) in the foreign language classroom. Over the past few years, these tools have become increasingly popular, a development that has given rise to questions about their benefits for foreign language learning and teaching. A total of 1187 participants (985 students and 202 teachers) took part in the study. They came from primary schools, lower and upper secondary schools (Gymnasium and Fachmatura, vocational schools), as well as tertiary education and professional development classes. The survey was conducted in French (n=834) and German (n=353) in the cantons of Bern, Fribourg, Geneva, Jura, Neuchâtel and Solothurn. Participation was voluntary. Results show that regardless of language background and educational context, participants perceive of the tools as a normal and largely established part of their everyday practices. Compared to their teachers, students are more optimistic about the tools’ potential contribution to foreign language learning and less concerned about possible pitfalls linked to using the tools. Students in lower secondary school use digital translation aids less frequently and rate their contribution to language learning and motivation less favourably than the other learner groups. Many teachers would like to use digital translators and online dictionaries in their classroom, but they express uncertainty about how to do so meaningfully. Teachers voice concerns over certain student practices, namely the lack of cognitive involvement when simply translating text without considering the output. Teachers also highlight the gap between curricular/institutional prescriptions and the way the tools are commonly used, a mismatch that can affect their teaching. Overall, our findings emphasize the need for a) empirical evidence on the effects of digital translation tools on foreign language acquisition, b) pedagogical scenarios for implementing the tools, and 3) alignment of policy with practice.
Ultra-broadband absorber based on multilayered graphene
Authors: Garakani Farshid Gharib , Moradi Gholamreza , Ghorbani Ayaz
Published: May 2023

We propose an absorber with ultra-broadband and independent polarization. The bandwidth of the absorber is widened by increasing the number of layers of patterned graphene and also decreased the sensitivity of structure on incident wave polarization. Full wave simulation is demonstrated from 5 GHz to 197 GHz (extraordinary relative bandwidth 190%) the absorption is obtained above 90%. The equivalent circuit model is used for obtaining the input admittance of the proposed absorber. By adjusting the input admittance in a wide frequency range, matching is obtained. The destructive interference and multiple resonances approach is used in designing the absorber. The polarization effect of incident waves on absorption and bandwidth is studied. The parametric study is accomplished by analyzing the absorber’s performance and optimizing the structure.
Optimizing next-generation RSV prevention in Mali: A cost-effectiveness analysis of pediatric vaccination, maternal vaccination, and extended half-life monoclonal antibody immunoprophylaxis
Authors: Laufer Rachel S. , Baral Ranju , Buchwald Andrea G. , Campbell James D. , Coulibaly Flanon , Diallo Fatoumata , Doumbia Moussa , Driscoll Amanda J. , Galvani Alison P. , Keita Adama M. , Neuzil Kathleen M. , Sow Samba , Pecenka Clint , Ortiz Justin R. , Fitzpatrick Meagan C.
Published: May 2023

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of early childhood lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Maternal vaccines, birth-dose extended half-life monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), and pediatric vaccines are under development for prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) in young children. We analyzed the health and economic impact of RSV interventions used alone or in combinations in Mali. We modeled age-specific and season-specific risks of RSV LRTI in children through three years, using WHO Preferred Product Characteristics and data generated in Mali. Health outcomes included RSV LRTI cases, hospitalizations, deaths, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs). We identified the optimal combination of products across a range of scenarios. We found that mAb delivered at birth could avert 878 DALYs per birth cohort at an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $597 per DALY averted compared to no intervention if the product were available at $1 per dose. Combining mAb with pediatric vaccine administered at 10/14 weeks, 1947 DALYs would be prevented. The ICER of this combination strategy is $1514 per DALY averted compared to mAb alone. Incorporating parameter uncertainty, mAb alone is likely to be optimal from the societal perspective at efficacy against RSV LRTI above 66%. The optimal strategy was sensitive to economic considerations, including product prices and willingness-to-pay for DALYs. For example, the combination of mAb and pediatric vaccine would be optimal from the government perspective at a willingness-to-pay above $775 per DALY. Maternal vaccine alone or in combination with other interventions was never the optimal strategy, even for high vaccine efficacy. The same was true for pediatric vaccine administered at 6/7 months. At prices comparable to existing vaccine products, extended half-life RSV mAbs would be impactful and efficient components of prevention strategies in LMICs such as Mali.