bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques in chest radiology imaging through a human-centered Lens
Authors: E. Ihongbe Izegbua , Fouad Shereen , F. Mahmoud Taha , Rajasekaran Arvind , Bhatia Bahadar
Published: October 2024

The field of radiology imaging has experienced a remarkable increase in using of deep learning (DL) algorithms to support diagnostic and treatment decisions. This rise has led to the development of Explainable AI (XAI) system to improve the transparency and trust of complex DL methods. However, XAI systems face challenges in gaining acceptance within the healthcare sector, mainly due to technical hurdles in utilizing these systems in practice and the lack of human-centered evaluation/validation. In this study, we focus on visual XAI systems applied to DL-enabled diagnostic system in chest radiography. In particular, we conduct a user study to evaluate two prominent visual XAI techniques from the human perspective. To this end, we created two clinical scenarios for diagnosing pneumonia and COVID-19 using DL techniques applied to chest X-ray and CT scans. The achieved accuracy rates were 90% for pneumonia and 98% for COVID-19. Subsequently, we employed two well-known XAI methods, Grad-CAM (Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping) and LIME (Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations), to generate visual explanations elucidating the AI decision-making process. The visual explainability results were shared through a user study, undergoing evaluation by medical professionals in terms of clinical relevance, coherency, and user trust. In general, participants expressed a positive perception of the use of XAI systems in chest radiography. However, there was a noticeable lack of awareness regarding their value and practical aspects. Regarding preferences, Grad-CAM showed superior performance over LIME in terms of coherency and trust, although concerns were raised about its clinical usability. Our findings highlight key user-driven explainability requirements, emphasizing the importance of multi-modal explainability and the necessity to increase awareness of XAI systems among medical practitioners. Inclusive design was also identified as a crucial need to ensure better alignment of these systems with user needs.
Combining full-length transcriptome sequencing and next generation sequencing to provide insight into the growth superiority of the hybrid grouper (Cromileptes altivelas (♀) × Epinephelus lanceolatus (♂))
Authors: Cao Liu , Ma Jun , Lu Yan , Chen Pan , Hou Xingrong , Yang Ning , Huang Hai
Published: October 2024

The hybrid grouper (Cromileptes altivelas, ♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus, ♂) is an economically important aquaculture species that exhibits certain growth advantages compared to its female parent, Cromileptes altivelas. However, the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the growth of hybrid groupers is lacking. Herein, we performed full-length transcriptome sequencing and next-generation sequencing on the hybrid grouper and its parents to identify growth-related genes and comprehensively analyze the regulatory mechanism of growth heterosis in the hybrid grouper. Approximately 44.70, 40.44, and 45.32 Gb of single-molecule real-time sequencing data were generated in C. altivelas (Cal), E. lanceolatus (Ela), and the hybrid (Hyb), which were combined into 204,322 non-redundant isoforms using the PacBio sequencing platform. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between Hyb and Cal (3,494, 2,125, and 1,487 in brain, liver, and muscle tissues, respectively) and Hyb and Ela (3,415, 2,351, and 1,675 in brain, liver, and muscle tissues, respectively). Then, 27 DEGs (13 in the brain and 14 in the muscle) related to growth traits were identified using cluster and correlation network analysis. Quantitative RT-PCR validated 15 DEGs consistent with transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) trends. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis revealed that these 15 genes were mainly involved in regulating the actin cytoskeleton, suggesting that this pathway plays an essential role in fish growth. In addition, we found that the phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) is a key regulator of growth heterosis in Hyb. These results shed light on the regulatory mechanism of growth in the Hyb, which is important for marker-assisted selection programs to improve the growth quality of groupers.
Pandemic perspectives from detained youth during COVID-19: Bridging the knowledge gap for future safeguards
Authors: McNeill-Johnson April , Hudson Zuri , Moore Brittany , Okocha Dumebi , Ramaswamy Megha , Randell Kimberly
Published: October 2024

Despite the worsening health disparities among youth in detention during the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been minimal exploration into the pandemic experiences of detained youth and opportunities for pandemic mitigation. This paper analyzes the perspectives of youth in detention on the pandemic, including the effect of the pandemic on their detention experience and their perceptions about COVID-19 vaccination. The study used purposive sampling to recruit 16 participants (aged 14–17 years) from two juvenile detention centers in the urban Midwest. We conducted semi-structured interviews and analyzed verbatim transcripts using a hybrid deductive-inductive approach and thematic analysis. Four themes emerged: 1) personal experience influenced youth perceptions of pandemic severity and risk; 2) distrust and misconceptions contributed to youth vaccine hesitancy or refusal; 3) desired opportunities and parental opinion motivated youth to get the COVID-19 vaccine; and 4) pandemic mitigation strategies negatively impacted youths’ detention center experience. Study findings identify opportunities for detention centers to minimize the negative impacts of pandemic mitigation strategies on youth in detention, expand vaccination knowledge and uptake, and build trust to positively impact the health and wellbeing of detained youth currently and during future pandemics.
ChatGPT M.D.: Is there any room for generative AI in neurology?
Authors: Nógrádi Bernát , Polgár Tamás Ferenc , Meszlényi Valéria , Kádár Zalán , Hertelendy Péter , Csáti Anett , Szpisjak László , Halmi Dóra , Erdélyi-Furka Barbara , Tóth Máté , Molnár Fanny , Tóth Dávid , Bősze Zsófia , Boda Krisztina , Klivényi Péter , Siklós László , Patai Roland
Published: October 2024

ChatGPT, a general artificial intelligence, has been recognized as a powerful tool in scientific writing and programming but its use as a medical tool is largely overlooked. The general accessibility, rapid response time and comprehensive training database might enable ChatGPT to serve as a diagnostic augmentation tool in certain clinical settings. The diagnostic process in neurology is often challenging and complex. In certain time-sensitive scenarios, rapid evaluation and diagnostic decisions are needed, while in other cases clinicians are faced with rare disorders and atypical disease manifestations. Due to these factors, the diagnostic accuracy in neurology is often suboptimal. Here we evaluated whether ChatGPT can be utilized as a valuable and innovative diagnostic augmentation tool in various neurological settings. We used synthetic data generated by neurological experts to represent descriptive anamneses of patients with known neurology-related diseases, then the probability for an appropriate diagnosis made by ChatGPT was measured. To give clarity to the accuracy of the AI-determined diagnosis, all cases have been cross-validated by other experts and general medical doctors as well. We found that ChatGPT-determined diagnostic accuracy (ranging from 68.5% ± 3.28% to 83.83% ± 2.73%) can reach the accuracy of other experts (81.66% ± 2.02%), furthermore, it surpasses the probability of an appropriate diagnosis if the examiner is a general medical doctor (57.15% ± 2.64%). Our results showcase the efficacy of general artificial intelligence like ChatGPT as a diagnostic augmentation tool in medicine. In the future, AI-based supporting tools might be useful amendments in medical practice and help to improve the diagnostic process in neurology.
Research on adaptive hydraulic drive optimization control of concrete mixing tank truck for open-pit mine
Authors: Liu Guangwei , Ren Chonghui , Chai Senlin , Wang Xuedong , Liu Wei
Published: October 2024

The non-axisymmetric problem caused by the fluid sloshing in the tank of a mining concrete mixing tank truck during driving is affected by the excitation of complex road surfaces. The fluid sloshing is coupled with the dynamics of the vehicle body due to the excitation of the complex road surface. The traditional hydraulic drive proportional integral differential (PID) control method is not effective in dealing with such problems, which can easily lead to accidents such as overturning. To improve the accuracy and stability of the hydraulic drive control system, this paper proposes an optimized particle filter PID adaptive control method based on the elastic firefly (FA) algorithm to accelerate the convergence speed of control parameter optimization, and then analyzes its hydraulic drive control characteristics and structural applications, and discusses step steering and double lane change modes are simulated under filling rates of 1.5 and 2.0, respectively. The experimental results show that compared with traditional PID control, the proposed adaptive control method can significantly reduce the average speed error of hydraulic drive control to 0.03km/h and the maximum speed error to 0.17km/h. It also improves the control tracking performance and stability. The practicality of the adaptive hydraulic drive is verified in the filling rate experiments under step steering and double-lane shifting conditions. It has important reference value for the practical application of hydraulic drive control optimization of mining concrete mixing transport tank trucks.
Four-party evolutionary game analysis of enterprise environmental behavior
Authors: Zhai Xujun , Zheng Lian , Lin Hong
Published: October 2024

With the implementation of the “Rural Revitalization Strategy” in China, it is common for enterprises to go to the countryside to develop business. However, enterprises often neglect the local environmental protection in rural areas while developing the economy to pursue profits. As the end of the national administrative system and the villagers’ autonomous organization, the village committee needs to participate in monitoring enterprises’ environmental behavior. With this in mind, this paper builds a game model of enterprises, grass-roots governments, farmers, and village committees and analyzes the impact of village committees, grass-roots governments, and farmers on enterprise environmental behavior. The conclusions are as follows: (i) it is difficult for the village committee to promote the positive environmental behavior of enterprises, which needs the supervision of the grass-roots government; (ii) Improving the coordination ability of village committees is conducive to reducing the burden of government supervision; (iii) Farmers’ awareness of environmental protection can affect the environmental behavior of enterprises through the rights protection mechanism and reputation mechanism.
Systematic review: The relationship between gabapentinoids, etizolam, and drug related deaths in Scotland
Authors: Ciesluk Beata , Inglis Dr. Greig , Parke Adrian , Troup Lucy J.
Published: October 2024

In recent years Scotland has been experiencing a disproportionally high number of drug related deaths compared to other European countries, causing significant individual, societal and economic burden. A possible cause of this is the increase in average number of substances involved in Scottish drug related deaths, as well as the changing pattern of substances involved. Opioids, cocaine, and alcohol have been consistently involved in the culture of drug use in Scotland, however recently National Records Scotland have identified that designer benzodiazepines such as etizolam, and prescription drugs such as gabapentinoids are increasingly being detected in Scottish toxicology reports. A systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted through searching PubMed and Google Scholar to identify peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2013 and 2023 that investigated Scottish population data on gabapentinoids and etizolam to establish their contribution to the rise in Scottish drug related deaths. 18 studies were included in the review. A high use prevalence of etizolam and gabapentinoids in Scotland has been identified, with both substance-related deaths showing recent increase, marked since 2015. This pattern is replicated in the Scottish prison system. There has also been a significant increase of gabapentinoids prescriptions in Scotland. Polydrug use was identified as the most common determinant of both etizolam and gabapentinoids related adverse effects and fatality in Scotland, especially concurrent opioid use. The results indicate the literature on individual characteristics of Scottish at-risk users of gabapentinoids and etizolam is limited, however the data shows both substances are being used by older cohort, with adverse effects seen more in older women.
Suppression of the postprandial hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes by a raw medicinal herb powder is weakened when consumed in ordinary hard gelatin capsules: A randomized crossover clinical trial
Authors: Moreira Fernanda Duarte , Reis Caio Eduardo Gonçalves , Gallassi Andrea Donatti , Moreira Daniel Carneiro , Welker Alexis Fonseca
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Contradictory claims about the efficacy of several medicinal plants to promote glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have been explained by divergences in the administration form and by extrapolation of data obtained from healthy individuals. It is not known whether the antidiabetic effects of traditional herbal medicines are influenced by gelatin capsules. This randomized crossover trial aimed to evaluate the acute effect of a single dose of raw cinnamon consumed orally either dissolved in water as a beverage or as ordinary hard gelatin capsules on postprandial hyperglycemia (>140 mg/dL; >7.8 mmol/L) in T2DM patients elicited by a nutritionally-balanced meal providing 50 g of complex carbohydrates.

Methods

Fasting T2DM patients (n = 19) randomly ingested a standardized meal in five experimental sessions, one alone (Control) and the other after prior intake of 3 or 6 g of crude cinnamon in the form of hard gelatin capsules or powder dissolved in water. Blood glucose was measured at fasting and at 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5 and 2 hours postprandially. After each breakfast, its palatability scores for visual appeal, smell and pleasantness of taste were assessed, as well as the taste intensity sweetness, saltiness, bitterness, sourness and creaminess.

Results

The intake of raw cinnamon dissolved in water, independently of the dose, decreased the meal-induced large glucose spike (peak-rise of +87 mg/dL and Δ1-hour glycemia of +79 mg/dL) and the hyperglycemic blood glucose peak. When cinnamon was taken as capsules, these anti-hyperglycemic effects were lost or significantly diminished. Raw cinnamon intake did not change time-to-peak or the 2-h post-meal glycaemia, but flattened the glycemic curve (lower iAUC) without changing the shape that is typical of T2DM patients.

Conclusions

This cinnamon’s antihyperglycemic action confirms its acarbose-like property to inhibit the activities of the carbohydrate-digesting enzymes α-amylases/α-glucosidases, which is in accordance with its exceptionally high content of raw insoluble fiber. The efficacy of using raw cinnamon as a diabetes treatment strategy seems to require its intake at a specific time before/concomitantly the main hyperglycemic daily meals. Trial registration: Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (ReBEC), number RBR-98tx28b.
In vivo treatment with a non-aromatizable androgen rapidly alters the ovarian transcriptome of previtellogenic secondary growth coho salmon (Onchorhynchus kisutch)
Authors: Monson Christopher , Goetz Giles , Forsgren Kristy , Swanson Penny , Young Graham
Published: October 2024

Recent evidence suggests that androgens are a potent driver of growth during late the primary stage of ovarian follicle development in teleosts. We have previously shown that the non-aromatizable androgen, 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), both advances ovarian follicle growth in vivo and dramatically alters the primary growth ovarian transcriptome in coho salmon. Many of the transcriptomic changes pointed towards 11-KT driving process associated with the transition to a secondary growth phenotype. In the current study, we implanted previtellogenic early secondary growth coho salmon with cholesterol pellets containing 11-KT and performed RNA-Seq on ovarian tissue after 3 days in order to identify alterations to the ovarian transcriptome in early secondary growth. We identified 8,707 contiguous sequences (contigs) that were differentially expressed (DE) between control and 11-KT implanted fish and were able to collapse those to 3,853 gene-level IDs, more than a 3-fold more DE contigs than at the primary growth stage we reported previously. These contigs included genes encoding proteins involved in steroidogenesis, vitellogenin and lipid uptake, follicle stimulating hormone signaling, growth factor signaling, and structural proteins, suggesting androgens continue to promote previtellogenic secondary growth.
Determinants of short birth interval in Ethiopia: A multilevel analysis based on EDHS 2019, Ethiopia, 2023
Authors: Tiruneh Mulu , Tesfaw Aragaw , Mamuye Melkalem , Tesfa Desalegn , Atikilt Getaneh , Gebeyehu Asaye Alamneh , Teshager Wondwosen
Published: October 2024

Introduction

According to the World Health Organization and Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey on birth spacing, there should be at least a two-year gap between conception and the first of two children born in quick succession. In poor nations like Ethiopia, resource issues were complex, making it difficult to get statistics for the entire country. However, by examining Ethiopian mini demographic and health survey data, we were able to provide data at the national level.

Method

The cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted in several of Ethiopia’s administrative cities and nine regions. In the analysis, sampling weight was used to correct the survey’s non-proportional sample distribution to strata and areas throughout the survey process and restore representative data. The study’s household population was presented and described using descriptive statistics such as weighted frequencies and percentages. The statistically significant factors linked to frequent short birth intervals were found using a multivariable, multilevel logistic regression analysis.

Result

Overall, 4306 weighted multigravida mothers nested within 305 enumeration areas were included in the analysis. The respondents’ mean (standard deviation) of the birth interval was 42.027(26.69). Higher-educated women had 12% lower odds of having a shorter pregnancy (AOR = 0.88; 95% CI: 0.35, 0.98) than women without higher education. The odds of a short birth interval were 3.04 times greater among women in the age category of 40–49 years at first marriage (AOR = 3.04; 95% CI: 1.08, 8.46) than among women in the age category of 15–19 years. This indicates that older women were most likely to have short birth intervals.

Conclusion

In the multilevel logistic regression model, maternal age, maternal educational status, the wealth quintile index, use of contraceptives, duration of breastfeeding, and contextual regions were significantly associated with short birth intervals in Ethiopia.
Képeslapok titkát kutatva
Authors: Gajdó Ágnes
Published: October 2024

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Expected 8-Week Prenatal vs 12-Week Perinatal Tenofovir Alafenamide Prophylaxis to Prevent Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus: A Multicenter, Prospective, Open-Label, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zeng Qing-Lei , Zhou Yi-Hua , Dong Xiao-Ping , Zhang Ji-Yuan , Li Guang-Ming , Xu Jiang-Hai , Chen Zhi-Min , Song Ning , Zhang Hong-Xu , Chen Ru-Yue , Lv Xue-Yan , Huang Shuo , Li Wei-Zhe , Pan Ya-Jie , Feng Ying-Hua , Li Zhi-Qin , Zhang Guo-Fan , Lin Wan-Bao , Zhang Guo-Qiang , Li Guo-Tao , Li Wei , Zeng Yan-Li , Zhang Da-Wei , Cui Guang-Lin , Lv Jun , Liu Yan-Min , Liang Hong-Xia , Sun Chang-Yu , Wang Fu-Sheng , Yu Zu-Jiang
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION:

The course of maternal antiviral prophylaxis to prevent mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV-MTCT) varies greatly, and it has not been demonstrated in a randomized controlled study.

METHODS:

In this multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled trial, eligible pregnant women with HBV DNA of 5.3–9.0 log10 IU/mL who received tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF) from the first day of 33 gestational weeks to delivery (expected 8 week) or to 4 weeks postpartum (expected 12 week) were randomly enrolled at a 1:1 ratio and followed until 6 months postpartum. All infants received standard immunoprophylaxis (hepatitis B immunoglobulin and vaccine). The primary end point was the safety of mothers and infants. The secondary end point was the HBV-MTCT rate of infants at the age of 7 months.

RESULTS:

Among 119 and 120 intention-to-treat pregnant women, 115 and 116 women were followed until delivery, and 110 and 112 per-protocol mother-infant dyads in 2 groups completed the study. Overall, TAF was well tolerated, no one discontinued the therapy due to adverse events (0/239, 0%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0%–1.6%), and no infant had congenital defects or malformations at delivery (0/231, 0%, 95% CI 0%–1.6%). The infants' physical development at birth (n = 231) and at 7 months (n = 222) was normal. Furthermore, 97.0% (224/231, 95% CI 93.9%–98.5%) of women achieved HBV DNA <5.3 log10 IU/mL at delivery. The intention-to-treat and per-protocol infants' HBV-MTCT rates were 7.1% (17/239, 95% CI 4.5%–11.1%) and 0% (0/222, 95% CI 0%–1.7%) at the age of 7 months. Comparatively, 15.1% (18/119, 95% CI 9.8%–22.7%) vs 18.3% (22/120, 95% CI 12.4%–26.2%) of women in the 2 groups had mildly elevated alanine aminotransferase levels at 3 months and 6 months postpartum, respectively (P = 0.507); notably, no one experienced alanine aminotransferase flare (0% [0/119, 95% CI 0%–3.1%] vs 0% [0/120, 0%–3.1%]).

DISCUSSION:

Maternal TAF prophylaxis to prevent HBV-MTCT is generally safe and effective, and expected 8-week prenatal duration is feasible. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04850950.
Comparative Study of Airport Layer Thickness Planning Between US Army Corp Graphical Method and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) PCN-ACN and PCR-ACR Method
Authors: Fistcar Wawarisa Alnu , Sudarsono Bambang , Widayat Widayat , Herlambang Andy Rahmadi
Published: October 2024

Airport pavement is designed following the US Corporation of Engineers method or better known as the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) method and the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) method which issues regulations for calculating airport pavement structures, namely AC (Advisory Circular) 150_5320_6D which same as the method CBR. In 2021, the FAA issued a standard for calculating airport pavement structures, namely AC (Advisory Circular) 150_5320_6G which uses the FAARFIELD assistance program. The difference in pavement thickness is at most 7.6 cm, on the flexible pavement type base course. In the FAARFIELD Auxiliary Program, all aircraft loads are taken into account as a contributor to pavement damage indicated by the CDF value that can accommodate aircraft loads, in contrast to the graphical method where aircraft are converted to design aircraft. The thickness of the base course using the graphical method is greater than that of the FAARFIELD Assistance Program, this is because when performing calculations, the initial base course value is the minimum value based on the minimum base course table for the use of top foundation layer material (AC No.150_5320_6G). The thickness of the surface course pavement is the same according to FAA provisions for the critical thickness of the surface course which is 4 in or 102 mm.
A Paradigmatic Shift for Estonian Research Libraries: Thirty Years of Rapid Travel on the Digital Highway
Authors: Pai Kristina , Treikelder Ülo
Published: October 2024

In the ten years after Estonia regained its independence in 1991, there were many developments that continue to shape the work of libraries today: the establishment of the Estonian Libraries Network Consortium (ELNET), the implementation of automated library systems and the modernization of basic library work processes, library legislation, harmonisation of copyright law, the procurement of information resources necessary for the development and consolidation of Estonian statehood, economy, science and culture, the creation of conditions necessary for the preservation of the national heritage, and new developments in the preservation and digitisation of library collections.
Comprehension of object relatives in Spanish: the role of frequency and transparency in acquisition and adult grammar
Authors: Llompart Miquel , Fernández Santos Sara , Dąbrowska Ewa
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the relative roles of frequency and transparency in native speakers’ comprehension of Spanish object relative sentences by comparing performance with two variants of the construction that differ in these properties. Experiment 1 suggests that seven- to eight-year-old children’s processing of object relative sentences is consistently facilitated by variant frequency and likely relies on separate representations for each variant as two different, although related constructions. Experiment 2 turns to adult comprehension of the two variants, showing similar accuracy and reaction time patterns for both variants for this population. This second outcome could be interpreted as a decrease in frequency effects over time, in line with the power law of practice, as an experience-based increase in the ability to make use of redundant markers, or both.
On the Sound of Qurʾān: Nasalization (ghunna) as Ornamentation and Accentuation in Recitation
Authors: Schewe Stephanie
Published: October 2024

The sound of Qurʾān recitation will be studied with a new approach. As the Qurʾān is a sacred text, it is performed with an exalted voice. Its performance mode extends beyond ordinary speech, but at the same time it is clearly distinguished from singing. The investigation exemplifies that the holy text and its pronunciation rules, which are preserved in the rules of tajwīd, somewhat predetermine the sound of recitation – regardless of its recitation style. For this purpose, it is necessary to first grasp the grammatical and rhetorical structure of the text, then to apply the specific rules of pronunciation when reading the text, and finally to evaluate their realization in melodic modes of recitation. Musical and linguistic criteria must be considered equally when interpreting the sound of Qurʾān recitation. This paper considers nasalization (ghunna) not just as a phonetic feature of tajwīd but also as an ornamentation that can be performed musically in recitation, thus marking rhetorically significant passages in the holy text.
The Linguistics Roadshow
Authors: Jepson Kathleen , Billington Rosey , Vaughan Jill
Published: October 2024

This paper presents an overview of the Linguistics Roadshow, an interactive showcase about the science of language and a hub for fun and interactive resources about linguistics. The Roadshow began as a travelling high school outreach programme introducing Australian students to linguistics and has grown to include online resources, providing an accessible introduction to linguistics with information about how students can pursue their interests in language. This paper is intended to provide a general guide to conducting linguistics-themed school incursions, to highlight opportunities afforded and challenges faced in undertaking this kind of outreach. We discuss the motivations for developing the Roadshow, outline the process of designing the workshop programme and materials, and offer a detailed description of the content and format. We reflect on our achievements and impact as well as lessons learned, and discuss future directions for a sustainable Roadshow and for linguistics outreach in the Australian context.
On Translated Literature’s Intended Reader(s): The Case of Yoram Kaniuk’s The Last Berliner
Authors: Kellner Tom
Published: October 2024

This article examines the position of the implied reader within a narrative communication model of translated texts, through the unique case study of Yoram Kaniuk’s The Last Berliner (2002/2004). While offering a comparative analysis of the book’s commercial presentation and critical reception in source and translation, the discussion analyzes ways in which national motivations and tones are translated (or re-located) into a different national and cultural setting. These in turn shape and reflect the text’s notion of its implied reader, which is further complicated by the fact that The Last Berliner was translated and published in German two years prior to its publication in Hebrew. It seems, then, that the book constructs two antithetical implied readers, which correspond to its different motivations in German and in Hebrew. Thus, the article takes the movement between the two cultures and languages as its point of departure, and sets to explore the tensions between the two cultural-political spheres through the notion of the intended reader and its realizations in the text’s critical reception.
Green engineering of NiO nanoparticles decorated with Arachis hypogaea shell extract for biomedical applications
Authors: Saminathan Sharmila , Sundaram Gowri , Jayapal Aarthi , Shakeel Faiyaz , Rajalingam Sivaranjani , Murugan Shandhiya , Kalaichelvan Kalaiarasi , Faiyazuddin Md.
Published: October 2024

We attempted to synthesize nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO-NPs) utilizing waste Arachis hypogaea (peanut) shell extract and studied their structural, morphological, and biological performance for biomedical applications. The green engineered NiO-NPs possessed a face-centered cubic structure with an average particle size of 20 nm in highly crystalline form. NiO-NPs were shown to have an optical resonance peak at 327 nm with 3 eV as the optical band gap according to the UV–visible spectra, and the stretching band between Ni–O were evidenced from the FTIR and Raman spectrum. Utilizing green approach the stable nanoparticles were obtained with average particle size of 31 nm from SEM analysis; zeta potential value of −17.6 mV, and PDI as 0.68, revealed the formation of spherical nanoparticles with distinct morphologies without aggregation. XPS analysis confirmed the oxidation states of the elements Ni (2p) and O (1s). This approach may help to increase the surface area, increasing the possibility of nanoparticles interacting with bacterial cells. Furthermore, the presence of nickel and the oxygen oxidation state were confirmed by XPS. Proteus vulgaris, Streptococcus oralis, Bacillus subtilis, and Escherichia coli were found to be susceptible to the antibacterial action of the produced NiO-NPs, with a maximal zone of inhibition of 10.25 mm at 500 μg/ml for P. vulgaris. For P. vulgaris and E. coli, the minimum inhibitory concentrations of NiO were 5.36 and 12.55 %, respectively, at 31.25 μg mL−1. We hereby claim that green engineered NiO NPs decorated with A. hypogaea shell extract have great potential for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.
Escala de actitudes hacia las personas mayores como aprendices y usuarias de tecnologías: evidencias psicométricas
Authors: Castro-Rojas Maria Dolores , Smith-Castro Vanessa
Published: October 2024

[Objective] Develop and validate a psychometric scale to assess the general population's attitude towards older adults as learners and users of Information and Communication Technologies (PAMTIC scale). [Methodology] A preliminary version of the scale was built based on a systematic review of the literature. In Study 1, the initial version was reviewed by experts and by cognitive interviews.  In Study 2, PAMTIC and the validation scales were applied in digital format to 196 people aged between 18 and 85 years. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), reliability and validity tests were performed. In studies 3 and 4, the final version of the scale and the validation scales in print and digital formats were applied to 1,041 people aged 18-82 years. In Studies 3 and 4, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and reliability and validity tests were performed. [Results] EFA showed 6 factors with good internal consistency coefficients ranging between .80 and .88. CFA confirmed the 6-factor structure and indicated a good fit of the multidimensional model to the data. Correlations between PAMTIC and validation scales provided evidence of nomological validity. [Conclusions] PAMTIC has satisfactory psychometric properties to measure attitude towards older adults as learners and users of Information and Communication Technologies in a reliable and valid way.
Hoaxes’ anatomy: Analysis of disinformation during the coronavirus pandemic in Europe (2020-2022)
Authors: Sánchez-del-Vas Rocío , Tuñón-Navarro Jorge
Published: October 2024

The escalating proliferation of disinformation throughout Europe, exacerbated by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitates a rigorous examination of its ramifications for public health. This study undertakes an investigation into trends in pandemic-related disinformation in Spain, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Poland spanning the period from 2020 to 2022. In this way, a meticulous content analysis of 704 publications from fact-checking sites was conducted. To augment the study’s robustness and provide a nuanced perspective on the evolving nature of disinformation, case studies were meticulously incorporated. The data reveals that despite of the professionalization of deep fakes, 43% of disinformation propagated through textual means, predominantly leveraging social networks (75%), especially Facebook and WhatsApp. Notably, misinformation pertaining to vaccines constituted the most prevalent narrative among disinformation stories, comprising 25.85% of the total. Moreover, as the pandemic unfolded, the thematic focus of disinformation adapted to the distinct contexts of each country. Furthermore, 47.16% of the content was found to be fabricated, with the primary objective of amplifying a common adversary accounting for 39.77% of cases. Given the contemporary relevance and public significance of this subject, the overarching objective of this research has been to scrutinise the dynamics of disinformation related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe. Consequently, the findings of this study carry a distinct European public service orientation.
När det nyfödda barnet behöver neonatalintensivvård: föräldrars erfarenheter under vårdtiden och av enfamiljecentrerad intervention
Authors:   , Åberg Petersson Marie
Published: October 2024

Background: Having an infant requiring care in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is challenging for parents, often the beginning of a journey of stress and worry for parents. Such situations could cause difficulties in problem solving and communication within the family and result in decreased family functioning.Aim: The overall aim of the thesis was to investigate parents' experiences when their children have needed NICU in the newborn period, and to investigate parents' experiences and effects of a family-centredintervention. Method: Data was collected through interviews with parents of infants requiring NICU care (I) and six months after the intervention with Family Health Conversations (IV), analysed using thematic analysis (I) and qualitative content analysis (IV). Questionnaire data was collected in conjunction with inclusion (n=147) (II, III), and five (n=113) and eight(n=92) months after inclusion (III). The questionnaire included measures to assess mental health symptoms, bonding, family wellbeing, and family functioning. Quantitative data was analysed with descriptive and inferential statistics (II, III). Results: The results of study I were presented as two themes: interactions within the family, and interactions between parents and staff. Interpersonal interactions could both facilitate and hinder in the sense of becoming a parent and a family. In study II nearly 40% of the parents reported anxiety symptoms. Mothers reported more mental health issues than non-birthing parents. Depression was associated with bonding difficulties and family wellbeing. In the longitudinally study (III) the intervention trended toward positive effects on mental health, family well-being, and family functioning. However, the estimated effects were not statistically significant. Regardless of the intervention, mental health symptoms decreased over time, whereas family well-being and functioning remained stable. Parents experienced the Family Health Conversations (IV) as an opportunity to co-create a comprehensive picture of what had happened after their child was born. Conclusion: The process of becoming a parent and a family could benefitfrom a systemic approach, focusing on the family as a unit, as individuals,and as parents with unique needs and experiences.
Tradução e validação do instrumento Childhood Hearing Loss Question Prompt List for Parents para a língua portuguesa brasileira
Authors: Moraes Adriéli Bettini de , Paccola Elaine Cristina Moreto , Salimon Amanda , Moret Adriane Lima Mortari , Frederigue-Lopes Natália Barreto , Jacob Regina Tangerino de Souza
Published: October 2024

RESUMO Objetivo traduzir e validar para o português brasileiro o instrumento Childhood Hearing Loss Question Prompt List for Parents, visando apoiar a comunicação entre profissionais de saúde e famílias de crianças com perda auditiva no Brasil. Métodos abordagem metodológica compreendendo a tradução e adaptação transcultural do instrumento, seguida de validação por meio de um processo iterativo que envolveu especialistas e o público-alvo. A tradução foi realizada por tradutores bilíngues, com subsequente retrotradução e revisão por um comitê de especialistas, para assegurar a equivalência conceitual e cultural. A validação envolveu a coleta e análise de feedback de pais de crianças com perda auditiva e profissionais fonoaudiólogos, utilizando o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo para avaliar a adequação do instrumento. Resultados a análise indicou aceitação positiva do instrumento traduzido, com a maioria dos itens atingindo Índice de Validade de Conteúdo acima do limiar de 0,78, refletindo a relevância e compreensibilidade do instrumento no contexto brasileiro. Um item específico não atingiu o índice desejado, destacando a necessidade de revisão adicional para otimizar a clareza e pertinência. Conclusão o Childhood Hearing Loss Question Prompt List for Parents traduzido e validado demonstrou ser uma ferramenta eficaz para o contexto brasileiro, facilitando a comunicação centrada na família e o envolvimento em cuidados auditivos pediátricos. Este estudo reforça a importância de adaptar e validar instrumentos de avaliação para refletir as especificidades culturais e linguísticas, assegurando a aplicabilidade e eficácia no atendimento às famílias de crianças com perda auditiva.
Origins of British reservoir safety legislation 1850–1930
Authors: Charles J. Andrew , Tedd Paul
Published: October 2024

One hundred years ago in 1925, there were two dam failures with significant loss of life, and following these disasters, the 1930 Reservoirs (Safety Provisions) Act was enacted. Catastrophic failures in the nineteenth century had produced demands for government action but legislation had been much delayed by changes of government at critical times and by concerns about inadvertently reducing the legal liability of reservoir owners. Also, there was a marked lack of enthusiasm within the civil engineering profession for a government inspectorate. The key feature of the 1930 Act was that reservoir owners were required to appoint qualified civil engineers to inspect their reservoirs and, following such inspections, to implement measures required in the interests of safety. Post-1930 legislation, which it is intended will be the subject of a further paper, has done much to enhance public safety but the fundamental importance of independent qualified civil engineers has not diminished.
Solar-integrated biogas reactor for efficient kitchen waste conversion to biogas
Authors: Shahzadi Amina , Umar Tariq , Kashif Saif Ur Rehman
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to improve biogas production by co-digesting kitchen waste and animal manure in a solar-integrated biogas reactor. The panel then heated the substrate mixture to the right temperature for the reactor after turning solar energy into electricity. The experiment was conducted at mesophilic (37°C) and thermophilic (40°C) conditions. After 45 days of co-digestion of animal dung, kitchen trash, cow manure, and grasses, the solar-integrated biogas plant generated 1445 mL of biogas with 60% methane (CH4), 14% carbon monoxide (CO), and 21% other gases; in comparison, the conventional biogas digester produced 501, 479, and 525 mL, respectively, with 35%–50% methane, 18% carbon monoxide, and 22% other gases. The data show that a solar-integrated biogas plant may react faster, produce more gas, and have a higher methane concentration using kitchen waste and animal manure. An environmental effect analysis and prediction of biogas plant construction has been accomplished. The proposed biogas plant, supported by a solar-integrated reactor strategy, appears economically viable, projecting a 5-year payback period. This research evaluates efficient biogas production techniques, emphasising their importance in advancing engineering sustainability. It promotes the role of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability in solving global energy problems and reducing climate change.
Experimental determination of soil thermal conductivity for design of underground cables
Authors: Meier Claas , Hendler Kai-Julian , Kleiber Stephanie , Stegner Johannes , Drefke Christoph , Hörtkorn Florian
Published: October 2024

The dimensioning of underground extra-high-voltage direct current transmission lines (HVDC) requires detailed knowledge of soil properties, particularly thermal conductivity, to optimise cable spacing and minimise project costs and environmental impact. Given the absence of an internationally standardised procedure for testing soil thermal conductivity, a novel approach was developed as part of the SuedLink project – a 700 km long underground power line, which will transmit renewable wind energy between northern and southern Germany. The unique aspect of this methodology lies in its ability to deliver reproducible results of the thermal conductivity of a soil across the entire water content spectrum. This allows the use of realistic thermal conductivity values, as opposed to the current use of overly conservative values in the design of underground power lines. In addition, the highly efﬁcient testing configuration enables the test to be effectively rolled out on a large scale, as was shown with over 6000 tests done on the SuedLink project. This article explains the thermal conductivity test procedure and the evaluation of the raw data obtained from these tests.
Targeting Krüppel-Like Factor 2 as a Novel Therapy for Glomerular Endothelial Cell Injury in Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Min Lulin , Chen Yixin , Liu Ruijie , Li Zhengzhe , Gu Leyi , Mallipattu Sandeep , Das Bhaskar , Lee Kyung , He John Cijiang , Zhong Fang
Published: October 2024

Key Points

Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) has emerged as a key endoprotective regulator by suppressing inflammatory and oxidative pathways, thrombotic activation, and angiogenesis.

Our study now demonstrates that KLF2 protects against glomerular endothelial injury and attenuates diabetic kidney disease progression in mice.

Compound 6 is a novel KLF2 activator that can potentially confer dual cardiorenal protection against diabetic complications.

Background

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a microvascular disease, and glomerular endothelial cell injury is a key pathological event in DKD development. Through unbiased screening of glomerular transcriptomes, we previously identified Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) as a highly regulated gene in diabetic kidneys. KLF2 exhibits protective effects in endothelial cells by inhibiting inflammation, thrombotic activation, and angiogenesis, all of which are protective for cardiovascular disease. We previously demonstrated that endothelial cell–specific ablation of Klf2 exacerbated diabetes-induced glomerular endothelial cell injury and DKD in mice. Therefore, in this study, we sought to assess the therapeutic potential of KLF2 activation in murine models of DKD.

Methods

We first examined the effects of endothelial cell–specific inducible overexpression of KLF2 (KLF2ov) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. We developed small molecule KLF2 activators and tested whether higher KLF2 activity could impede DKD progression in type 2 diabetic db/db and BTBR ob/ob mice.

Results

Diabetic KLF2ov mice had attenuated albuminuria, glomerular endothelial cell injury, and diabetic glomerulopathy compared with control diabetic mice. A novel KLF2 activator, compound 6 (C-6), effectively induced downstream Nos3 expression and suppressed NF-kB activation in glomerular endothelial cells. The administration of C-6 improved albuminuria and glomerulopathy in db/db and BTBR ob/ob mice, which was associated with improved glomerular endothelial cell and podocyte injury.

Conclusions

These results validate KLF2 as a potential drug target and KLF2 activators, such as C-6, as a novel therapy for DKD.
Autoantibodies Targeting Proteasome Subunit Alpha Type 1 in Autoimmune Podocytopathies
Authors: Liu Huihui , Zhou Chao , Wang Dongjie , Meng Hanyan , Zhu Shifan , Zhang Jiayu , Mao Jianhua , Ye Qing
Published: October 2024

Key Points

Serum anti-proteasome subunit alpha type 1 (PSMA1) autoantibodies were specifically elevated in the active phase of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, which may assist in disease diagnosis and monitoring.

Serum anti-PSMA1 antibodies could cause damage to the glomerular filtration barrier, which may be a pathogenic antibody of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome.

PSMA1 played an important role in the maintenance of podocyte morphology and function.

Background

The antibody against proteasome subunit alpha type 1 (PSMA1) is a podocyte autoantibody in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome children identified in our previous study. The aim of this study was to explore the characteristics of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children and the mechanism underlying its involvement in the development of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome.

Methods

The levels of serum anti-PSMA1 autoantibodies in children were detected through protein microarray and compared among different disease groups. The recombinant PSMA1 protein was injected subcutaneously and intraperitoneally into mice to observe glomerular morphology and function. The PSMA1-knockdown and PSMA1-overexpressing cell lines were constructed from mouse podocytes, and their cytoskeleton and function were analyzed. Homozygous zebrafish with psma1 knockout were observed.

Results

The levels of serum anti-PSMA1 autoantibodies were higher in children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome and varied with urinary protein. In mice immunized with PSMA1, the presence of serum anti-PSMA1 autoantibody caused albuminuria and damage to the glomerular filtration membrane. Deficiency of PSMA1 impaired the podocyte cytoskeleton and physiological function. Complete deletion of psma1 caused edema, abnormal glomerular morphology, and effacement of foot processes in zebrafish.

Conclusions

PSMA1 played an important role in the maintenance of podocyte morphology and function.