bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forma e ideología. Mecanismos de integración y de sumisión en 'Lectura fácil', de Cristina Morales
Authors: Ayete Gil Maria
Published: January 2020

En este artículo se propone una aproximación a la novela Lectura fácil, de Cristina Morales, desde la asunción de dos presupuestos: el primero, la radical historicidad de la literatura, que nos obliga a atender a las condiciones ideológicas y de producción de las que surge el texto; el segundo, la necesidad de revolucionar la forma literaria para participar en la realidad y transformarla. Tales presupuestos nos llevan, por un lado, al análisis de los procedimientos mediante los que la ficción de Morales desnaturaliza los mecanismos de sumisión y de integración desplegados por el sistema. Por el otro, a esclarecer el modo en que el texto transforma la forma novela mostrándonosla como resultado de un proceso de montaje. Entender la novela como montaje de voces y materiales distintos, reales o ficticios, nos permite, a su vez, entender la realidad como construcción, paso necesario para afrontar el diálogo inevitable entre la ideología de la forma y la ideología del contenido. Solo en este diálogo se desvelan, finalmente, las condiciones y contradicciones de la lógica interna del capitalismo avanzado y se expone la radicalidad del planteamiento de la autora.
[A tiro de][Barrio] Entrevista al colectivo teatral Atirohecho
Authors: Martínez Fernández Ángela , López Ruiz Daniel , Martínez Vito
Published: January 2020

La presente
La presente entrevista ha sido realizada a través de dos encuentros presenciales con las protagonistas en el que la espontaneidad y la proliferación de respuestas ha primado como base; esto es, el objetivo principal ha sido habilitar un espacio de conversación donde, a partir de preguntas iniciales, se pudiera extender y expandir el debate hacia otros lugares. El formato oral nos permite, así, recoger los matices y la pluralidad de un colectivo donde la voz de su directora y actriz (Carla Chillida) se ve contrastada y completada siempre con la intervención de las otras componentes (Elías Taño, Margarida Mateos y Yarima Osuna). El texto que aquí presentamos, entonces, es una transcripción directa del formato oral donde nuestra mediación se limita a ordenar los párrafos según los ejes temáticos y a eliminar las expresiones entrecortadas o que dificultan, en cierta medida, la comprensión del razonamiento. Por todo ello, el material textual se complementa con la filmación de la entrevista presencial
entrevista ha sido realizada a través de dos encuentros presenciales con las protagonistas en el que la espontaneidad y la proliferación de respuestas ha primado como base; esto es, el objetivo principal ha sido habilitar un espacio de conversación donde, a partir de preguntas iniciales, se pudiera extender y expandir el debate hacia otros lugares. El formato oral nos permite, así, recoger los matices y la pluralidad de un colectivo donde la voz de su directora y actriz (Carla Chillida) se ve contrastada y completada siempre con la intervención de las otras componentes (Elías Taño, Margarida Mateos y Yarima Osuna). El texto que aquí presentamos, entonces, es una transcripción directa del formato oral donde nuestra mediación se limita a ordenar los párrafos según los ejes temáticos y a eliminar las expresiones entrecortadas o que dificultan, en cierta medida, la comprensión del razonamiento. Por todo ello, el material textual se complementa con la filmación de la entrevista presencial
ВРЕДНОВАЊЕ РЕЗУЛТАТА РАДА УЧЕНИКА У НАСТАВИ ПРИРОДЕ И ДРУШТВА
Authors: Јењић Славиша
Published: January 2020

Поред реализације циља и задата-ка наставе природе и друштва, ва-жан сегмент наставног рада јесте ипраћење и вредновање резултата радаученика. У раду се настоји објаснитивредновање резултата рада ученика,праћење њиховог постигнућа у наста-ви природе и друштва, провјеравањеи коначно оцјењивање. Објашњено јеусмено и писмено провјеравање знањаученика. Представљено је и неколи-ко различитих задатака објективногтипа, те указано на предности ислабости усменог и писменог вредно-вања рада ученика. Сагледана је оцје-на као средство мотивације учениказа рад у настави природе и друштва.Описано је текуће и завршно провје-равање знања ученика, као и практич-но провјеравање. Наведени су крите-рији оцјењивања у настави природе идруштва.
БИОГРАФСКА МОНОГРАФИЈА Мирјане Илић и Ане Савковић „ЧАСОПИС УЧИТЕЉ 1983-2013“
Authors: Јерковић Љиљана
Published: January 2020

Педагошка периодика на српскомјезику обогаћена је ове године науч-но и стручно изузетно значајном би-блиографском монографијом МирјанеИлић и мр Ане Савковић „ЧАСОПИСУЧИТЕЉ 1983-2013“. Монографијује публиковао Савез учитеља Репу-блике Србије у Београду половином2014. године поводом 140 година по-стојања овог часописа, односно 30 го-дина излажења нове серије.
The Translation of the Arabic Descriptive Words that are Derived from the Names of Animals used to Give Adjectives for Human Beings or Describe their Behaviors Case Study: Students at The University of Jordan/Amman
Authors: Faraj Bushra Abu
Published: January 2020

Arabic language is a rich language; it is full of different expressions and idioms. Some parts of speech like nouns could be used for many other purposes (e.g. adjectives). Many descriptive words in Arabic are derived from the names of animals to give adjectives for human beings or to describe their behaviors. This study aims to translate these words by transforming the correct meaning in the Arabic culture. A case study is made with students of translation class at The University of Jordan/Amman. They were asked to translate ten sentences; each of which contains a name of an animal that is used to give an adjective for humans or describe their behaviors. Some of these words (expressions or idioms) have equivalences in English so that, they are easy to be translated. Others have no equivalences in English, so the students need to look for the correct meanings these words indicate in the Arabic culture. Literal translations for these words are not accepted at all because no message could be delivered in this case.
Light-harvesting chlorophyll a/b-binding protein-coding genes in jatropha and the comparison with castor, cassava and arabidopsis
Authors: Zhao Yongguo , Kong Hua , Guo Yunling , Zou Zhi
Published: January 2020

The Lhc (light-harvesting chlorophyll a/b-binding protein) superfamily represents a class of antennae proteins that play indispensable roles in capture of solar energy as well as photoprotection under stress conditions. Despite their importance, little information has been available beyond model plants. In this study, we presents a first genome-wide analysis of Lhc superfamily genes in jatropha (Jatropha curcas L., Euphorbiaceae), an oil-bearing plant for biodiesel purpose. A total of 27 members were identified from the jatropha genome, which were shown to distribute over nine out of the 11 chromosomes. The superfamily number is comparable to 28 present in castor (Ricinus communis, Euphorbiaceae), but relatively less than 35 in cassava (Manihot esculenta, Euphorbiaceae) and 34 in arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) that experienced one or two recent whole-genome duplications (WGDs), respectively. In contrast to a high number of paralogs present in cassava and arabidopsis, few duplicates were found in jatropha as observed in castor, corresponding to no recent WGD occurred in these two species. Nevertheless, 26 orthologous groups representing four defined families were found in jatropha, and nearly one-to-one orthologous relationship was observed between jatropha and castor. By contrast, a novel group named SEP6 was shown to have been lost in arabidopsis. Global transcriptome profiling revealed a predominant expression pattern of most JcLhc superfamily genes in green tissues, reflecting their key roles in photosynthesis. Moreover, their expression profiles upon hormones, drought, and salt stresses were also investigated. These findings not only improve our knowledge on species-specific evolution of the Lhc supergene family, but also provide valuable information for further studies in jatropha.
Moderation effects of food intake on the relationship between urinary microbiota and urinary interleukin-8 in female type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Liu Fengping , Ling Zongxin , Tang Chulei , Yi Fendi , Chen Yong Q.
Published: January 2020

Background

Our previous study demonstrated that the composition of the urinary microbiota in female patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was correlated with the concentration of urinary interleukin (IL)-8. As the composition of urine is mainly determined by diet, diet might mediate the correlation.

Methods

Seventy female T2DM patients and 70 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Midstream urine was used for the urine specimens. Urinary IL-8 was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A Chinese Food Frequency Questionnaire was used to collect food intake data. The independent variables in the hierarchical regression analysis were the relative abundances of the bacterial genera and species that were significantly different between the T2DM and HCs and between the T2DM patients with and without detectable urinary IL-8, and the bacterial genera associated with IL-8 concentration in the multiple regression model reported in our previous research. IL-8 concentration was the dependent variable, and nutrient intakes were moderator variables.

Results

Fiber and vitamin B3 and E intake exerted enhancing effects, and water intake exerted a buffering effect, on the positive relationship between the relative abundance of Ruminococcus and IL-8 concentration (p < 0.05). Cholesterol and magnesium intake exerted enhancing effects on the positive relationship between the relative abundance of Comamonas and IL-8 concentration (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Modulating T2DM patients’ dietary patterns may prevent bladder inflammation.
HIV Disclosure in Children in This Millenium – Should It still be an Issue?
Authors: U. Eneh A. , O. Ugwu R. , I. Paul N.
Published: January 2020

Background: As more children with HIV survive into adolescence and adulthood, one of the most difficult issues that families with HIV-infected children face is disclosure of their children’s status to them.

Objective: To explore factors associated with disclosure or none disclosure and whether disclosure is beneficial or not.

Methods: The mothers of HIV positive children who brought their children aged 5-18 years to the Paediatric Infectious Disease Clinic of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital from January to December 2015 were interviewed using a structured investigator administered questionnaire.

Results: Of the 100 caregivers interviewed, 26.0% have disclosed the HIV status to the children. The mean age at disclosure was 14.42 ± 2.45 years. Care givers that have disclosed were significantly older (45.58±8.32 years vs 38.18±9.2 years; p = .0002). The mean age of children whose status have been disclosed was significantly higher than those who were yet to be aware of their status (14.42±2.45years vs 10.97±3.11 years; p = 0.00001). There was no significant difference in the mode of transmission and orphan status between the two groups. Disclosure was significantly more among children who were diagnosed between 5-10 years of age (14; 53.8%) (p=0.013), have taken antiretroviral drugs for over 24 months (22; 84.6%) (p= 0.003) and had at least one HIV-infected sibling (21; 80.8%) (p=0.00001). Among 13 (50.0%) whose status have been disclosed and 59 (79.7%) whose status had not been disclosed, the caregiver had disclosed the child’s status to others (p= 0.004). The major reason for disclosing was because the child was either asking questions on why he/she is taking drugs or he/she is refusing to take drugs (15; 57.7%) respectively. Only 6 (23.1%) caregivers disclosed because they felt the child has a right to know. Most difficult question asked by the children during disclosure was how they got the HIV (22; 84.6%). Reasons given for non-disclosure included fear of disclosure to others (74; 100%), child too young to understand (70; 94.5%) and fear of impact on child’s emotional health (42; 56.7%). Majority 20 (76.9%) of the care givers felt relieved after disclosure. Twenty-four (92.3%) caregivers felt disclosure had improved child’s adherence to antiretroviral therapy and determination to survive (22; 84.6%).

Conclusion: Disclosure is beneficial to both the child and caregiver. Healthcare providers should encourage caregivers to disclose HIV status to their children as soon as possible.
Determinants of Quality of Life among Menopausal Market Women Traders in a South-Western Town, Nigeria
Authors: Adekunbi Farotimi Abosede , Olufunke Akinbade Musiliat , Ogba Okueso Grace
Published: January 2020

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive life with associated physical, social, mental and cultural changes. Menopausal symptoms are known to impair the quality of life (QoL) of women. This study assessed the determinants of quality of life among menopausal women traders in a South-Western Town, Nigeria.

Methodology:   This study adopted descriptive research design. 421 respondents were purposively selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria.  Standardized Structured Questionnaire that was pretested and validated was used to collect data. The data obtained were analyzed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 23 and P-value were set as 0.05.

Results: Socio-demographic characteristics distribution of respondents showed that 286 respondents (67.9%) were married; 205 respondents (48.7%) were secondary school holders and the menopausal mean age was 48.45±3.78 years. On determinants of QoL, 328 respondents (78.0%) reported good sleep; 301 respondents (71.5%) reported good memory; 138 respondents (32.8%) reported enjoyment of love life; and 215 respondents (51.0%) claimed to work actively. On the overall QoL 223 respondents (53.0%) experienced fair QoL; there is no significant relationship between QoL and selected demographic variables, their P value were, age = 0.48, number of children = 0.13, educational qualification = 0.70, occupation = 0.20 and monthly income = 0.53.

Conclusion: The study concluded that respondents’ love life has the least reported response among the determinants, and little above half has fair QoL. Therefore public health practitioners need to pay special attention to comprehensive sexuality education for menopausal women to improve their QoL.
Review on the Influence of Diabetes Mellitus in the Visual Prognosis of Cataract Surgery
Authors: Kumari Ragni , Dhavamathi Janarthanan Salai , Ranjan Srivastava Mrinal , Garg Pragati , Janardhanan Rajiv
Published: January 2020

India is deliberated the diabetes hub of the world, and a substantial amount of patients undergoing cataract surgery are diabetic. Developments in surgical techniques and instrumentation of cataract have large enriched the outcomes; but, surgical procedure may not be benign and real in certain entities with pre-existing retinal pathology or inadequate visual potential.. Keeping this in mind, we surveyed the different layers of the eye in managing the cataract in patients with diabetes. The changes in the cornea, intra ocular lens, choroid, and retina are the factors which influenced the visual prognosis of diabetic cataract patients. Better comprehension of different elements in charge of good result of cataract surgery in diabetic patients may direct us in better options in the management of these patients and advancing the outcomes. This review article targets to address diverse features adjoining cataracts in diabetic patients. In anelectronic MEDLINE search, appropriate studies were selected by authors using the relevant keywords.
Oncology Clinical Trial Design Planning Based on a Multistate Model That Jointly Models Progression‐Free and Overall Survival Endpoints
Authors: Erdmann Alexandra , Beyersmann Jan , Rufibach Kaspar
Published: December 2024

When planning an oncology clinical trial, the usual approach is to assume proportional hazards and even an exponential distribution for time‐to‐event endpoints. Often, besides the gold‐standard endpoint overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS) is considered as a second confirmatory endpoint. We use a survival multistate model to jointly model these two endpoints and find that neither exponential distribution nor proportional hazards will typically hold for both endpoints simultaneously. The multistate model provides a stochastic process approach to model the dependency of such endpoints neither requiring latent failure times nor explicit dependency modeling such as copulae. We use the multistate model framework to simulate clinical trials with endpoints OS and PFS and show how design planning questions can be answered using this approach. In particular, nonproportional hazards for at least one of the endpoints are a consequence of OS and PFS being dependent and are naturally modeled to improve planning. We then illustrate how clinical trial design can be based on simulations from a multistate model. Key applications are coprimary endpoints and group‐sequential designs. Simulations for these applications show that the standard simplifying approach may very well lead to underpowered or overpowered clinical trials. Our approach is quite general and can be extended to more complex trial designs, further endpoints, and other therapeutic areas. An R package is available on CRAN.
Monitoring Addiction to Pregabalin in Northern Algeria by Using Hair Testing
Authors: Soumia Tehami , Anna Bertaso , Matilde Murari , Rachid Djafer , Bortolotti Federica , Rossella Gottardo
Published: December 2024

Pregabalin (PGB) is a novel gamma‐aminobutyric acid analog that has been recently approved for the treatment of partial‐onset seizures, neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia. Although PGB presents a low potential for abuse in comparison to other scheduled drugs, the literature reports its potential misuse, especially among individuals with former or current drug addiction. The present study aimed to develop and validate a novel method for the determination of PGB in hair to perform a retrospective observational study on the misuse of this drug in a population of addicted subjects from Northern Algeria. Hair and urine samples were collected from patients (n = 79) with a history of illicit drug use, monitored by the Intermediate Addiction Care Center of Constantine (Algeria). None of the patients had a medical prescription for PGB. Samples had also been tested for the presence of other drugs of abuse with routine LC–MS/MS methods. Hair samples (∼25 mg) were analyzed for PGB after sonication for 2 h in acetonitrile. The organic phase was dried and reconstituted in 100 µL mobile phase and analyzed by LC–MS/MS. The method was fully validated with LOD and LOQ results of 10 and 20 pg/mg, respectively. The linearity was verified in the 20–1000 pg/mg range. PGB was found in the hair samples of 51/79 subjects, with concentrations ranging from traces to 380 pg/mg. The study revealed that about 65% of the subjects used PGB in the absence of any medical prescription, indicating the potential misuse of this drug.
Correlation between perinatal abnormalities and decreased fetal movement as counted by a fetal movement acceleration measurement recorder: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Ryo Eiji , Kamata Hideo , Yatsuki Keita
Published: December 2024

Objective

The objective was to study the relationship between a decrease in gross fetal movement during maternal night sleep counted by an objective method and abnormal perinatal outcomes.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study. A total of 470 pregnant women recorded fetal movement with the fetal movement acceleration measurement recorder weekly after 28 weeks. The ratio of 10‐s epochs with fetal movement to all epochs was calculated as the fetal movement parameter. When the parameter was below the 10th percentile of the previously made reference curve, it was defined as decreased movement. Women who showed a decreased movement at least once were classified into a study group, and the other women were classified into a control group. Abnormal perinatal outcomes between the two groups were compared with the Chi‐square test.

Results

There were more preterm births (19%) in the study group than in the control group (10%) (P = 0.0210). There was a significant difference for iatrogenic preterm birth (P = 0.0241) but not for spontaneous preterm birth (P = 0.4566). There were more hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (11.6%), small‐for‐gestational‐age newborns (10.7%), and Apgar scores below 7 points at 1 min (7.4%) in the study group than in the control group (5.2%, 4.8%, and 2.6%, respectively) (P = 0.0329, 0.0459, and 0.0487, respectively).

Conclusion

A decrease in gross fetal movement during maternal night sleep was related to iatrogenic preterm births, small‐for‐gestational‐age newborns, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and low Apgar scores at 1 min.
A severe case of the bladder inversion treated by total cystectomy and hysterectomy with ileal conduit
Authors: Akai Taro , Kawamorita Naoki , Shiraiwa Tetsuro , Watanabe Mahoro , Sato Tomonori , Sato Takuma , Yokoyama Emi , Ishibashi Masumi , Watanabe Zen , Ito Akihiro
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Female pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is considered a borderline disease between urology and gynecology and is treated by reconstructive surgery, which restores the organs to their original positions.

Case presentation

An 82‐year‐old woman with bladder and uterine prolapse at POP‐Q Stage IV was treated with an indwelling catheter for voiding dysfunction. Eventually, the catheter has been often spontaneously removed when pelvic organ prolapse occurs, resulting in a diagnosis of bladder inversion. Because of bladder inversion and low bladder capacity at the time of bladder retraction, the patient underwent total cystectomy, combined with total hysterectomy, colpopexy, and posterior colporraphy, and ileal conduit.

Conclusion

The cases of complete bladder and uterine prolapse combined with bladder inversion, total hysterectomy, colpopexy, posterior colporraphy, and ileal conduit were performed safely. Considering urinary function, surgery without organ preservation with urinary diversion may be an option.
A 2D detector array for relative dosimetry and beam steering for FLASH radiotherapy with electrons
Authors: Schönfeld Andreas A. , Hildreth Jeff , Bourgouin Alexandra , Flatten Veronika , Kozelka Jakub , Simon William , Schüller Andreas
Published: December 2024

Background

FLASH radiotherapy is an emerging treatment modality using ultra‐high dose rate beams. Much effort has been made to develop suitable dosimeters for reference dosimetry, yet the spatial beam characteristics must also be characterized to enable computerized treatment planning, as well as quality control and service of a treatment delivery device. In conventional radiation therapy, this is commonly achieved by beam profile scans in a water phantom using a point detector. In ultra‐high dose rate beams, the delivered dose needed for a set of beam profile scans may exceed the regulatory dose limit specified for a typical treatment room, or degrade components of the scanning system and scanning detector. Point detector scans also cannot quantify the pulse‐to‐pulse stability of a beam profile. Detector arrays can overcome these challenges, but to date, no detector arrays suitable for ultra‐high dose rate beams are commercially available.

Purpose

The study presents the development and characterization of a two‐dimensional detector array for measuring pulse‐resolved spatial fluence distributions in real‐time and temporal structure of intra‐pulse dose rate of ultra‐high pulsed dose rate (UHPDR) electron beams used in FLASH radiotherapy.

Methods

The performance of the SunPoint 1 diode was evaluated by measuring the response of the EDGE Detector in a 20 MeV UHPDR electron beam with a dose per pulse of 0.04 Gy – 6 Gy at a pulse duration of 1 µs or 1.9 µs, and instantaneous dose rates of 0.040 – 3.2 MGy·s−1. Based on the findings regarding a suitable signal acquisition technique, a PROFILER 2 detector array made of SunPoint 1 diodes was then modified by minimizing trace resistance, applying a reverse bias, and implementing an RC component to each diode to optimize the transfer of the collected charge during a pulse. The resultant “FLASH Profiler” was then tested in the same UHPDR electron beam.

Results

The FLASH Profiler exhibited a linear response within ± 3% deviation over the investigated dose per pulse range. The FLASH Profiler array showed good agreement with the absolute dose measured using a flashDiamond point detector and an integrating current transformer for dose‐per‐pulse values of up to 6 Gy. The FLASH Profiler was able to measure lateral beam profiles in real‐time and on a single‐pulse basis. The ability to capture and display the profiles during steering of UHPDR beams was demonstrated. The SunPoint 1 diode was able to measure the pulse duration and the intra‐pulse dose rate with a time resolution of 4 ns.

Conclusion

The FLASH Profiler could be used for characterizing UHPDR electron beams and facilitating quality control and beam steering service of electron FLASH irradiators.
Dependence of brain‐tissue R2 on MRI field strength
Authors: van Gelderen Peter , Wang Yicun , de Zwart Jacco A. , Duyn Jeff H.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To quantify T2 relaxation in the brain at 3 T and 7 T to study its field dependence and correlation with iron content, and to investigate whether iron can be separated from other sources of T2 relaxation based on this field dependence.

Methods

Nine subjects were scanned at both field strengths with the same acquisition technique, which used multiple gradient‐echo sampling of a spin echo. This allowed for separation of T2 relaxation from static dephasing by B0 field inhomogeneities and the effects of radiofrequency refocusing imperfections. The average relaxation rates (R2 = 1/T2) in multiple regions of interest in the brain were fitted with a model linear in B0 and correlated with literature iron values.

Results

The relationship between the R2 values at the two field strengths appeared to be linear over all regions of interest. The R2 values (in s−1) in the regions of interest for which both an iron and a lipid mass fraction have been documented in the literature were fitted as , where and indicate the putative mass fractions of iron and lipid.

Conclusion

The R2 relaxation rate is well described by a constant plus a term linear in B0, with both iron and lipid content contributing to the slope. This indicates that the contributions of lipid and iron to R2 cannot be separated based solely on the field dependence of R2 in the field range of 3–7 T.
Absorption‐coefficient calculation of short‐wavelength photoresist materials: From EUV to BEUV and water window X‐ray
Authors: Peng Yifeng , Chen Pengzhong , Chen Hao , Si YouMing , Peng Xiaojun
Published: December 2024

In photolithography, shortening the exposure wavelength from ultraviolet to extreme ultraviolet (EUV, 13.5 nm) and soft X‐ray region in terms of beyond EUV (BEUV, 6.X nm) and water window X‐ray (WWX, 2.2–4.4 nm) is expected to further miniaturize the technology node down to sub‐5 nm level. However, the absorption ability of molecules in these ranges, especially WWX region, is unknown, which should be very important for the utilization of energy. Herein, the molar absorption cross sections of different elements at 2.4 nm of WWX were firstly calculated and compared with the wavelengths of 13.5 nm and 6.7 nm. Based on the absorption cross sections in these ranges and density estimation results from the density‐functional theory calculation, the linear absorption coefficients of typical resist materials, including metal‐oxy clusters, organic small molecules, polymers, and photoacid generators (PAGs), are evaluated. The analysis suggests that the Zn cluster has higher absorption in BEUV, whereas the Sn cluster has higher absorption in WWX. Doping PAGs with high EUV absorption atoms improves chemically amplified photoresist (CAR) polymer absorption performance. However, for WWX, it is necessary to introduce an absorption layer containing high WWX absorption elements such as Zr, Sn, and Hf to increase the WWX absorption.
Steel Scrap Yield Prediction in Basic Oxygen Steelmaking Based on Random Forest and Neural Networks
Authors: Zhang Chaojie , Nian Yi , Zhang Liqiang , Cheng Jinjun , Zhang Zhen
Published: December 2024

Steel scrap is a primary raw material in basic oxygen steelmaking. However, its yield is influenced by numerous factors, making accurate prediction challenging. This study explores and predicts the steel scrap yield in the basic oxygen steelmaking process using machine learning techniques. First, the interquartile range method is applied to clean the collected steelmaking process data. By analyzing the blow loss of molten iron and the amount of steel obtained from the scrap, a deviation coefficient of scrap yield is defined and calculated. Next, a correlation analysis and a feature importance analysis using the random forest algorithm identify the factors influencing the deviation coefficient of scrap yield. Finally, a multilayer neural network regression model is constructed to predict the deviation coefficient of scrap yield. The model achieves a mean squared error of 0.00051 on the test set, with an accuracy rate of 96.89% for absolute errors within ±0.05. This method not only effectively predicts scrap yield but also provides a reference for calculating steel materials and controlling costs in the steelmaking process.
Probabilistic modeling of ballistic penetration in reinforced concrete panels
Authors: Dar Roouf Un Nabi , Alagappan P.
Published: December 2024

Studying ballistic impact on reinforced concrete (RC) structures is essential for enhancing the safety and cost‐effectiveness of these structures. The depth of penetration (DOP) and residual velocity (RV) of projectiles are critical design parameters requiring precise quantification to improve the ballistic‐resistant design. Traditional empirical models are available for quantifying these parameters but are deterministic and often yield inaccurate results due to the inherent uncertainties in ballistic impacts. This paper introduces a probabilistic approach to quantify DOP and RV accurately. Bayesian inference models are developed using dimensionless explanatory functions to estimate these parameters in RC panels under hard projectile impacts, accounting for associated uncertainties. Numerical modeling is performed using LS‐Dyna, and the model is validated against experimental data from past studies. Data from refined numerical simulations, along with available experiments from the literature, are utilized to develop the probabilistic models. The findings reveal the significant influence of projectile and concrete properties, as well as the projectile's incidence angle, on DOP and RV. The probabilistic models developed are validated with previous experimental results, demonstrating their reliability and accuracy. Consequently, robust design formulae are proposed for estimating DOP and RV for RC panels under hard projectile impacts, providing a valuable tool for precise impact assessments in engineering applications.
Afterword
Authors: Thane Pat
Published: December 2024

This Afterword outlines the many ways in which campaigners for social reform have drawn on their personal experiences, and the expertise this has afforded them, to argue for remedies to overcome gaps in state services in the twentieth-century British welfare state. It notes that the theme of experiential expertise has been largely overlooked in previous studies of state welfare. Highlighted here is the importance of this concept in a wide range of examples. These include those of women’s campaigning groups in the pre-1945 period, the arguments of pioneering advisors to the Labour government on welfare reform and Non-Governmental Organisations from the 1950s. All these cases reveal how personal experience, individual and collective, has been a central force in many historic campaigns for welfare reform. The Afterword asserts that by using the framing of experiential expertise Everyday Welfare opens up neglected dimensions of the British welfare state which can be built upon in future to deepen understandings of past and present, successful and unsuccessful, moves to ensure that people “fare well”.
Hydrocarbons in the Sea
Authors: Radovich Violeta S.
Published: December 2024

This chapter defines hydrocarbons, a non-renewable natural resource, whose exploration and exploitation causes impacts in the environment. Hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation has started wars, its exploration in the sea started in 1937. The notion of “marine platforms” instead of “offshore platforms” is introduced to rethink the relationship between land and sea and to develop a functional approach to enhance existing regulations. Different types of marine platforms are explained, since this categorization is relevant to determine whether they could be included or not under Maritime Law scope of application.
Constructions and Compositionality
Authors: Rambelli Giulia
Published: December 2024

How do we understand any sentence, from the most ordinary to the most creative? The traditional assumption is that we rely on formal rules combining words (compositionality). However, psycho- and neuro-linguistic studies point to a linguistic representation model that aligns with the assumptions of Construction Grammar: there is no sharp boundary between stored sequences and productive patterns. Evidence suggests that interpretation alternates compositional (incremental) and noncompositional (global) strategies. Accordingly, systematic processes of language productivity are explainable by analogical inferences rather than compositional operations: novel expressions are understood 'on the fly' by analogy with familiar ones. This Element discusses compositionality, alternative mechanisms in language processing, and explains why Construction Grammar is the most suitable approach for formalizing language comprehension.
Analytical and numerical validation of a plate–plate tribometer for measuring wall slip
Authors: Asghar Muhammad Hassan , Marić Tomislav , Ben Gozlen Houssem , Raju Suraj , Fricke Mathis , Kuhr Maximilian M.G. , Pelz Peter F. , Bothe Dieter
Published: December 2024

We model the slip length tribometer (SLT), originally presented by Pelz et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 948, 2022, p. A8) in OpenFOAM. The plate tribometer is especially designed to simultaneously measure viscosity and slip length for lubrication gaps in the range of approximately 10

$\mathrm {\mu }$

m at temperatures and surface roughnesses relevant to technical applications, with a temperature range of

$-30$

to

$100\,^\circ \mathrm {C}$

and surface roughness ranging from

$10\ \mathrm {nm}$

to

$1\ \mathrm {\mu }\mathrm {m}$

. A simplified analytical model presented by Pelz et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 948, 2022, p. A8) infers the slip length of the plate from the experimentally measured torque and the plate gap height. The present work verifies the analytical model using axisymmetric flow simulations and presents the effect of inlet on the numerical velocity profiles. The simulation results are in very good agreement with the results of the analytical model. The main conclusion drawn from this study is the validation of the Navier-slip boundary condition as an effective model for partial slip in computational fluid dynamics simulations and the negligible influence of the inlet on the fluid flow between the SLT's plates.
The Czech Constitutional Court Database
Authors: Paulík Štěpán
Published: December 2024

The article at hand introduces a comprehensive foundational database on the Czech Constitutional Court spanning from its inception in 1993 to 2023. The database includes metadata on all decisions, full-text corpus, and additional background data on judges and law clerks, filling a gap in high-quality datasets for empirical legal research in the Central and Eastern European regions. As one of the first comprehensive court databases in the CEE region, it has the potential to catalyze similar research efforts and contribute to methodologically rigorous empirical legal research in a region of increasing European significance.
Scalp and Forehead Reconstruction following Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Authors: Mohan Vamsi C. , Leonovicz Olivia G. , Schmidt Josephine L. , Gillipelli Srinithya R. , Parham Matthew J. , Layon Sarah A. , Dempsey Robert F.
Published: December 2024

For proper reconstruction of scalp and forehead defects following Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS), knowledge of the unique anatomy and aesthetic importance of these structures is necessary to restore function and appearance. However, the inflexibility, convexity, and hair-bearing nature of the scalp and forehead can make reconstruction challenging. Detailed planning and precise management are essential to achieve adequate reconstructive results. Defect size, location, prior radiation history, and symmetry of hairlines should be taken into consideration during planning, and the simplest reconstructive technique should be utilized whenever feasible. This review will discuss the reconstructive options available for acquired defects of the scalp and forehead.
Reconstruction of Small Nasal Defects
Authors: Hollier Pierce , Parham Matthew , Layon Sarah A. , Thornton James F.
Published: December 2024

The nose maintains a central importance in both functional and aesthetic human anatomy. With such importance comes numerous possible defects with equally plentiful techniques available for repair. One of the most common causes for nasal reconstruction is Mohs micrographic surgery to excise basal and squamous cell carcinomas. Generally, these procedures create small defects which can be repaired via skin graft or flaps with possible assistance from biologic agents.
Eyelid Reconstruction
Authors: Gillipelli Srinithya R. , Quirarte Diego M. , Owens Winston R. , Parham Matthew J. , Jiang Austin Y. , Williams Katherine J. , Xue Amy S.
Published: December 2024

Reconstruction of the eyelid is a complex process that requires an understanding of eyelid anatomy and various reconstructive techniques to restore function and appearance. The eyelids, essential for globe protection, moisture retention, and expression, contain the lacrimal system and intricate musculature that make reconstruction challenging. Tumor excision commonly results in defects in the eyelid that require careful reconstructive planning, with consideration for defect dimensions, location, and involvement of surrounding tissue. This review presents reconstructive techniques commonly used in the management of eyelid defects.
Identifying the composition of large vesicles in the cytoplasm of oocytes
Authors: Reader Karen L. , Pratt Isabella G. , Lawson Georgia L. , Woolley Robert J.
Published: December 2024

Context Oocyte vesicles, or vacuoles, have been described using transmission electron microscopy in most species. In sheep and cow oocytes, vesicles constitute up to 30% of the cytoplasm, their volume decreases during maturation and is lower in poorer quality oocytes, suggesting they are important for oocyte competence. However, the composition and function of these organelles is unknown. Aim This study aimed to ascertain the content of oocyte vesicles and examine the effect of different fixation methods on the size and preservation of these organelles. Methods Sheep oocytes were centrifuged to segregate organelles then stained with organelle-specific fluorescent dyes (Nile Red, LysoTracker, Fluo-4-AM and TMRM) and imaged by live cell confocal microscopy. The oocytes were fixed with either glutaraldehyde or paraformaldehyde and prepared for electron microscopy to confirm the distribution of organelles and compare ultrastructure and organelle size. Key results Nile Red staining has identified that vesicles contain lipid that is different to that in the osmium-stained lipid droplets observed by electron microscopy. Lipid droplets and vesicles were significantly smaller when prepared for electron microscopy compared to live cell imaging. Organelles were less likely to be fully segregated following centrifugation in oocytes prior to maturation (20%) compared to oocytes after maturation (77%; P < 0.0001). Conclusions Oocyte vesicles are lipid storing organelles that may be important for oocyte quality. Implications This study highlights the importance of lipid for oocyte quality and the need for further research to identify the optimal fatty acid content for in vitro maturation media and oocyte competence.
On the skids
Authors: Kosatica Maida , Ross Melody Ann
Published: December 2024

As a way of identifying places which visibilise vulnerable groups, this paper analyses stories of people living on
Los Angeles’ Skid Row from their visual portraits posted on photographer Mark Laita’s YouTube channel Soft White
Underbelly. Recognising the important role of oral narratives in the production of semiotic landscapes, we are
concerned with the ways people talk about space and (re)construct their vulnerabilities in relation to Skid Row. On their own,
autobiographical accounts facilitate a deep understanding of how people structure their lives around particular places, but we
also document semiotic landscaping tokens collected from ride-along vlogs and virtual walks. This paper shows that Skid Row is a
space of contradictory but simultaneous identities; it is a place of excessive regulatory control and perceived disorder; it is
bounded and confined but also easily and dangerously accessible; it is peripheral and overlooked but also appealing to
‘watch’.
Radiopharmaceuticals
Authors: Verberne Hein J. , Hyafil Fabien , Gimelli Alessia
Published: December 2024

In this chapter, the basic concepts of myocardial perfusion imaging are described. In addition, the characteristics, kinetics, and related radiation exposure of different single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) tracers are discussed.
Image interpretation
Authors: Jaber Wael A. , Gimelli Alessia
Published: December 2024

This chapter provides a comprehensive simulation of interpretation of myocardial perfusion images as performed on a daily basis in clinical practice. In particular, one can learn how to interpret myocardial perfusion images by single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET), blood pool gating, and images performed for evaluation myocardial innervation. Finally, suggestions on how to interpret artefacts are provided.
Is the threat of malignant melanoma in the UK still increasing? A comprehensive analysis of 30 years of historical data and Bayesian age-period-cohort model projections for 2030
Authors: Chen Hao , Wang Yangyang
Published: December 2024

Malignant melanoma, a highly aggressive skin cancer, though less common, significantly contributes to cancer-related mortality. In the UK, it is of growing concern with an aging population, making it crucial to analyze historical trends and forecast future burdens. We used Joinpoint regression and age-period-cohort models to analyze trends in incidence, prevalence, and mortality of malignant melanoma in the UK from 1990 to 2021. Bayesian age-period-cohort model was applied to predict the disease burden for different age groups by 2030. From 1991 to 2021, melanoma incidence and prevalence in the UK exhibited distinct temporal patterns: a significant upward trend until 2015, particularly pronounced in individuals aged 60 and older, followed by a downward trend after 2015. By 2030, incidence and prevalence are projected to decrease, particularly in younger and middle-aged populations, with incidence expected to fall from 20.78/100 000 in 2020 to 11.90/100 000, and prevalence from 167.80/100 000 to 80.13/100 000. Mortality is also expected to decrease. However, high-risk groups, especially those aged 85 and above, are predicted to maintain higher incidence and prevalence rates. Despite a historical rise, melanoma incidence, prevalence, and mortality have declined since 2015 and are projected to continue declining through 2030. However, the elderly population remains at higher risk, underscoring the need for targeted public health interventions.
Role of CRISPR-Cas System as a New Approach in Fighting the Antimicrobial Resistance of Bacterial and Viral Pathogens
Authors: Selim Heba Mohammed Refat M. , Gomaa Fatma Alzahraa M. , Alshahrani Mohammad Y. , Aboshanab Khaled M.
Published: December 2024

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-Caspase (Cas) system acts as a natural defense of bacteria against invasion by mobile genetic elements, such as plasmids, transposons, and bacteriophages. The review discusses the different classes and types of CRISPR-Cas systems in terms of principles of their action, limitations, and future perspectives. Also, the role of the CRISPR-Cas system as a new arsenal in fighting multidrug-resistant pathogens and clinically relevant pathogenic viruses and up-to-date clinical trials have been discussed and highlighted. Moreover, the utilization mode, regulation, and the link of CRISPR-Cas to quorum sensing for targeting cell chromosome or antimicrobial-resistant gene(s) of some clinically relevant pathogens, including Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa have been discussed. The information provided in this review can act as a platform for researchers for the future use of the CRISPR-Cas system as a smart antimicrobial agent for combating infections caused by life-threatening pathogens, particularly those with limited therapeutic options.
Construction 4.0: enhancing sustainable construction practices by evaluating digital twin barriers in the Nigerian AEC industry
Authors: Ibrahim Kabir , Okanlawon Taofeek Tunde , Oyewobi Luqman Oyekunle , Badamasi Abdulmalik , Dodo Mansir , Jimoh Richard Ajayi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry is currently undergoing a paradigm shift as it integrates innovations such as digital twins (DT) in its activities. As a result, this study aims to ascertain the barriers affecting the implementation of digital twin (DT) technology in Nigeria’s AEC sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a quantitative approach using a questionnaire distributed via Google Forms, yielding 120 valid responses from built environment professionals in Nigeria. The data were subjected to statistical tests such as the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, Cronbach’s alpha, descriptive statistics and the Kruskal–Wallis test. Hypotheses were validated through partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The study revealed that out of the 43 identified barriers, inadequate system integration, challenges in guaranteeing interoperability, university education on the subject is deficient, and new system compatibility with legacy systems are the main barriers to implementing DT for sustainable construction practices in the AEC Industry of Nigeria.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted in Nigeria with a focus on the Federal Capital Territory. The study identified the barriers of DT in the construction sector.

Practical implications

This study developed and assessed a theoretical framework, examining the relationships between variables. The findings have important implications for the construction industry, offering opportunities to improve construction processes. Furthermore, the study will help improve sustainable practices within the built environment.

Originality/value

The study categorised the barriers of DT into the following: system integration; security-related; performance-related; organizational-related; data quality issues and environmental related issues.