bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RNA deadenylation complexes in development and diseases
Authors: Liu Yilin , Ramkumar Niveditha , Vu Ly P.
Published: January 2023

RNA deadenylation, the process of shortening of the 3′ poly(A) tail of an RNA molecule, is one of the key steps of post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression in eukaryotic cells. PAN2/3 and CCR4-NOT (CNOT) are the two dominant RNA deadenylation complexes, which play central roles in mediating mRNA decay and translation. While degradation is the final fate of virtually all RNAs in their life cycles, selection of RNA targets as well as control of the rate and timing of RNA decay, in coordination with other molecular pathways, including translation, can be modulated in certain contexts. Such regulation influences cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation at the cellular level; and contributes to establish polarity and regulate signaling at the tissue level. Dysregulation of deadenylation processes have also been implicated in human diseases ranging from cardiac diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders to cancers. In this review, we will discuss mechanisms of gene expression control mediated by the RNA deadenylation complexes and highlight relevant evidence supporting the emerging roles of RNA deadenylation and its regulatory proteins during development and in diseases. A systemic understanding of these mechanisms will be a critical foundation for development of effective strategies to therapeutically target them.
Compton scattering in TFD formalism
Authors: Cabral D. S. , Santos A. F.
Published: January 2023

In this paper, the cross section for the Compton scattering process at finite temperature is calculated. Temperature effects are introduced using the Thermofield Dynamics (TFD) formalism. It is a real-time finite temperature quantum field theory. Our result shows that thermal effects become relevant as the temperature increases. A comparison between the TFD and closed-time path results is presented.
Has Covid-19 permanently changed online purchasing behavior?
Authors: Inoue Hiroyasu , Todo Yasuyuki
Published: January 2023

This study examines how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected online purchasing behavior using data from a major online shopping platform in Japan. We focus on the effect of two measures of the pandemic, i.e., the number of positive COVID-19 cases and state declarations of emergency to mitigate the pandemic. We find that both measures promoted online purchases at the beginning of the pandemic, but in later periods, their effect faded. In addition, online purchases returned to normal after states of emergency ended, and the overall time trend in online purchases excluding the effects of the two measures was stable during the first two years of the pandemic. These results suggest that the effect of the pandemic on online purchasing behavior is temporary and will not persist after the pandemic.
Recycled Aluminium Alloys and their Models: Role and Behaviour of Alloying Elements during Alkaline Etching
Authors: Mysliu Erlind , Sletteberg Storli Kathrine , Kjørsvik Eline , Lunder Otto , Erbe Andreas
Published: January 2023

Alkaline etching is a common pretreatment for aluminum surfaces. Etching behavior was compared between an alloy based on post-consumer scrap (PCS) and several model alloys of rolled AA3005 and extruded AA6060 with systematically varied amounts of Mn, Cu and Ni. Analysis of concentrations of alloy elements in the etching solution by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) shows that significant fractions of the investigated elements Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Ni, and Zn dissolve. Surface analysis of samples in different stages of the etching process show (i) an increase in oxide layer thickness with etching time, (ii) an enrichment of important alloy elements and impurities (Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Si) near the metal/oxide interface, and (iii) the deposition of Mg, Fe, Si-containing aluminum hydroxide on the surface. A comparison with open circuit potential measurements and time-resolved electrochemical polarization resistance measurements enables a detailed analysis of the etching mechanism. The aluminum dissolution rate during etching is limited by the transport of species through the oxide precursor layer, thus is potential-independent. Differences in etching rates between different alloy classes, evidenced by mass loss measurements, are related to differences in the cathodic or anodic reaction mechanisms (hydrogen evolution or metal dissolution) during etching.
The Impact of Three Specific Collaborative Merging Strategies on Traffic Flow
Authors: Shang Xue-Cheng , Liu Feng , Li Xin-Gang , Janssens Davy , Wets Geert
Published: January 2023

On-ramps are considered to be one of the common traffic bottlenecks. In order to improve the operation efficiency of on-ramps, scholars worldwide have proposed various vehicle merging strategies. In this study, we designed different rules to express three collaborative strategies and studied their impact on on-ramp systems. Cellular automata models were used to simulate the systems under different situations, and the average speed and traffic flow rate of both the main roads and ramps were analyzed. The results show that (1) all the three merging strategies give excessive “priority” to the merging vehicle, leading to a severe reduction in the traffic performance of the main road; (2) nevertheless, these strategies have different effects on the entire system with a one-lane or two-lane main road. Due to the lane-changing behavior, the system with a two-lane main road has more advantages than that featured with a one-lane road, making the former system performing better than the latter under the same strategies; (3) the vehicles on the ramp and main road affect each other, and as the vehicle entering probabilities become large, the traffic flow rate on the main road decreases whereas that on the ramp increases. However, the effect is not unlimited, the flow rate on both roads finally reaches a stable level (forming a “platform”); and (4) large values of the merging safety distance parameter decrease the flow rate of the entire system. All the previous results provide a deep understanding of the impact of the three merging strategies on traffic flow, contributing to the design of on-ramp systems that have better operation efficiency and low levels of congestion.
Device Performance of Double-Gate Schottky-Barrier Graphene Nanoribbon Field-Effect Transistors with Physical Scaling
Authors: Chuan Mu Wen , Misnon Muhammad Amirul Irfan , Alias Nurul Ezaila , Tan Michael Loong Peng
Published: January 2023

Moore’s law is approaching its limit due to various challenges, especially the size limit of the transistors. The International Roadmap for Devices and Systems (IRDS), the successor of International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors (ITRS), has included 2D materials as an alternative approach for the More-than-Moore nanoelectronic applications. Among the 2D materials, graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) have been widely used as the alternative channel materials of field-effect transistors (FETs). In this paper, the impacts of physical scaling on the device performance of double-gate Schottky-barrier GNR FETs (DG-SB-GNRFETs) are investigated by using NanoTCAD ViDES simulation tool based on the tight-binding Hamiltonian and self-consistent solutions of 3D Poisson and Schrödinger equations with open boundary conditions within the nonequilibrium Green’s function formalism. The extracted device performance parameters include the subthreshold swing and on-to-off current ratio. The results suggest that the performances of DG-SB-GNRFETs are strongly dependent on their physical parameters, especially the widths of the GNRs.
Tracing the Negative Results of Multiplex Real-Time PCR Assay for Diagnosis of Bacterial Pediatrics Meningitis
Authors: Karimi Abdollah , Rafiei Tabatabaei Sedigheh , Azimi Leila , Almasian Tehrani Nasim , Fallah Fatemeh , Faghihian Iman
Published: January 2023

The death because of meningitis remains high in some parts of the world. It is important to know the specific cause of meningitis because the treatment differs depending on the cause. This study aimed to trace the false-negative results of multiplex RT-PCR to detect Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria meningitidis serogroup by two different molecular methods. In this study, the CSF of the suspicious pediatric for acute bacterial meningitis among children aged 1 month to 14 years who are admitted to the hospitals in four cities of a certain region of Iran was collected. S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and N. meningitidis in CSF samples were detected by single-tube multiplex RT-PCR and specific RT-PCR with a probe on the same specimens. In this cross-sectional study, 506 CSF samples were collected during one year. The multiplex RT-PCR can detect 3.3% and 2.2% of S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae, respectively. N. meningitidis was not detected. The CSF analysis was abnormal in 53% of 506 patients. On the other hand, 11.5%, 4.8%, and 4.1% of S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and N. meningitidis were identified, respectively, by specific RT-PCR assay, exactly on the same specimens. Various types of PCR can be used for pathogen identification. As we change the type of PCR in our study, we could approximately increase 15% our positive results and also consequently decrease our false-negative responses.
The Dopamine D1 Receptor Attenuates Titanium Particle-Induced Inhibition of Osteogenesis by Activating the Wnt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Feng Chengcheng , Li Yajun , Gu Minhui , Li Wenming , Yang Yunshang , Chen Shuangshuang , Ma Yong , Geng Dechun , Xiao Long , Wang Zhirong
Published: January 2023

Periprosthetic osteolysis (PPO), caused by wear particles, has become a major cause of joint replacement failure. Secondary surgery after joint replacement poses a serious threat to public health worldwide. Therefore, determining how to effectively inhibit wear particle-induced PPO has become an urgent issue. Recently, the interaction between osteogenic inhibition and wear particles at the biological interface of the implant has been found to be an important factor in the pathological process. Previous studies have found that the central nervous system plays an important role in the regulation of bone formation and bone remodeling. Dopamine (DA), an important catecholamine neurotransmitter, plays an integral role in the physiological and pathological processes of various tissues through its corresponding receptors. Our current study found that upregulation of dopamine first receptors could be achieved by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, improving osteogenesis in vivo and in vitro, and significantly reducing the inhibition of titanium particle-induced osteogenesis. Overall, these findings suggest that dopamine first receptor (D1R) may be a plausible target to promote osteoblast function and resist wear particle-induced PPO.
BQ-Bank: A Quantum Software for Finance and Banking
Authors: Li Hang , Xing Tonghao , Wei Shijie , Liu Zhiyuan , Zhang Jiang , Long Gui-Lu
Published: January 2023

The power of quantum computing may bring a revolution in finance and banking. Here, we present quantum software, BQ-Bank for option pricing, Value at Risk, portfolio optimization, and others. BQ-Bank can be run on a real quantum computer such as superconducting system or on an emulation system based on a classical computer with an interface. BQ-Bank, such as other quantum types of software, represents a new generation of the toolbox that likely brings disruptive innovations to the financial industry and banking market in the future. BQ-Bank also provides the classical Monte Carlo solution, so that users can compare their quantum results with classical ones directly. Our simulation results for a variety of examples show the superiority of quantum solutions.
Regulation of the Inflammatory Response, Proliferation, Migration, and Epithelial‐Mesenchymal Transition of Human Lens Epithelial Cells by the lncRNA‐MALAT1/miR‐26a‐5p/TET1 Signaling Axis
Authors: Hu Yaru , Han Xue , Chen Yue , Cai Jinbiao , Li Juan , Fan Yuchen , Wang Jianfeng , Xie Shanglun
Published: January 2023

Background. The ocular inflammatory microenvironment has been reported to be closely associated with the occurrence and progression of highly myopic cataract (HMC). Long noncoding RNA metastasis‐associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) could alter the biological properties of mammalian cells by modulating the expression of inflammatory mediators; therefore, it may contribute to the development of HMC. Objective. To investigate the function of MALAT1 in the inflammatory response, proliferation, migration, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of inflammatory and injured human lens epithelial cells (HLECs) and to reveal the underlying molecular signals. Methods. Patients with HMC and age‐related cataract (ARC) with an axial length of more than 26 mm were selected, and the anterior capsular tissue was obtained during cataract surgery. TNF‐α (20 ng/mL) was chosen to induce inflammatory damage in HLECs to simulate the inflammatory microenvironment in HMC eyes. Specific siRNAs, inhibitors, and mimics were used to suppress or enhance the functions of MALAT1 and miR‐26a‐5p. RT‐qPCR and Western blot analysis were performed to measure gene and protein expression, respectively. Results. The expression of MALAT1 and the inflammatory mediators IL‐6, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9 were significantly higher in HMC anterior capsule tissues than in ARC. TNF‐α treatment increased the expression of MALAT1, while it also promoted the proliferation, migration, and EMT of HLECs. MALAT1 interference decreased the expression of IL‐6 and MMP‐2 and inhibited the aforementioned processes. Furthermore, MALAT1 negatively regulated the expression of miR‐26a‐5p and then promoted TET1 expression. TET1 was identified as a direct target of miR‐26a‐5p, and the promoting effect of MALAT1 on TET1 expression could be reversed by miR‐26a‐5p mimics. Conclusion. The inflammatory environment and MALAT1 expression could be reciprocally induced in HLECs. MALAT1 may act as a ceRNA via the “sponge” miR‐26a‐5p and target TET1 to regulate the inflammatory response, proliferation, migration, and EMT processes in HLECs.
A Genetics Study in the Foreskin of Boys with Hypospadias
Authors: Inanc Irem , Avlan Dincer , Eker Damla , Gurkan Hakan
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Hypospadias is a malformation of the genitourinary system in males, characterized by the placement of the urethral opening in the ventral surface of the penis. Although controversies continue about etiology, endocrine disrupting chemicals that disrupt normal endocrine signaling at the receptor or signal transduction level are thought to play an essential role in etiology. This study aimed to investigate the receptor gene expressions of the sex hormones and FGFR2, HOXA13, and TGFB1, which are considered to play an essential role in developing hypospadias. Methods: The samples from the foreskin of 26 patients with hypospadias and 26 healthy children who underwent circumcision operations were collected. ESR1, AR, FGFR2, HOXA13, and TGFB gene expressions were investigated by real-time PCR in samples obtained during surgery. Results: In the hypospadias group, ESR1 expression was increased (p = 0.013), and AR and FGFR2 expressions were decreased, which were found to be statistically significant (p = 0.027 and p = 0.003, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference between hypospadias and control groups in TGFBand HOXA13expression levels (p > 0.05). Discussion: The results suggest that sex hormone receptors and FGFR2 may play an essential role in developing male external genital structures at the gene level. The defects in the expression of these genes can contribute to understanding the development of hypospadias.
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Diabetic Macular Edema Treated with Intravitreal Aflibercept: A 48-Week Observational Study (the DOCTA Study)
Authors: Korobelnik Jean-François , Gaucher David , Baillif Stéphanie , Creuzot-Garcher Catherine , Kodjikian Laurent , Weber Michel
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Central vision loss due to diabetic macular edema (DME) is related to the macular edema itself but also, in some cases, to alterations of the foveal avascular zone (FAZ). The aim of this trial was to study changes in macular vessels in eyes with DME treated with aflibercept using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Methods: This was a longitudinal, prospective, noncontrolled, single-arm study. The primary objective was the quantitative assessment of macular vessels over time in patients with DME treated with intravitreal aflibercept during a 48-week follow-up using OCTA. Results: Twenty-six DME eyes from 26 patients were included (mean age, 64.6 years; women, 53.8%; prior anti-VEGF treatment, 46.1%). Each eye received a mean (SD) of 7.2 (2.2) injections. The following parameters of the FAZ did not change during the 48-week follow-up: the mean (SD) FAZ area varied from 0.19 (0.19) mm2 at baseline (n = 22) to 0.23 (0.20) mm2 at week 48 (n = 15), boundary from 1.54 (1.21) to 2.04 (1.20) mm, and circularity from 0.45 (0.33)% to 0.57 (0.20)%. There was no change in perfusion density and vessel density of the macula in the 3-mm circle. As expected, mean central retinal thickness, macular volume, and visual acuity improved during follow-up. Conclusion: No change in macular perfusion was observed in eyes with DME during a 48-week follow-up after intravitreal injections of aflibercept. Randomized controlled trials using OCT angiography in large populations with extended observation periods are needed to assess changes in macular vessels after intravitreal anti-VEGF treatment.
Liver Transplantation after Successful Downstaging of a Locally Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Systemic Therapy
Authors: Schmiderer Andreas , Zoller Heinz , Niederreiter Markus , Effenberger Maria , Oberhuber Georg , Krendl Felix Julius , Oberhuber Rupert , Schneeberger Stefan , Tilg Herbert , Djanani Angela
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Liver transplantation (LT) is potentially curative for patients with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, this procedure is usually reserved for patients with early tumor stages or after successful downstaging with local regional therapies. In patients with locally advanced HCC, current guidelines recommend locoregional and palliative systemic therapies for tumor stages Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) B and C, respectively. Case Report: In this article, we describe a 63-year-old male patient with locally advanced HCC (BCLC C) and hepatitis C-associated cirrhosis. Following systemic treatment with the immune checkpoint inhibitor atezolizumab and the anti-VEGF antibody bevacizumab, significant downstaging to a tumor stage within the Milan criteria was achieved after which LT was successfully performed. Conclusion: As more effective systemic therapies become available, LT and potential curative treatment could become feasible for selected patients with locally advanced HCC.
A Comprehensive Study of Disease-Causing Variants in PAH, QDPR, PTS, and PCD Genes in Iranian Patients with Hyperphenylalaninemia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ghanei Mahmoud , Sadat Fatemi Seyedeh Helia , Hamzehlouei Tayebeh
Published: January 2023

Background: Hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) is an autosomal recessive disorder that results from a deficiency in the phenylalanine hydroxylase enzyme (PAH) or from a flaw in the genes that are responsible for the biosynthesis or regeneration of the cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), including GCH1, SR, QDPR, PTS, and PCD. Identification of disease-causing variants in these genes can help physicians and clinical geneticists in differential diagnosis, appropriate prescription drugs, and saving time and cost. This study attempted to identify these genes’ most prevalent disease-causing variants in Iranian HPA patients. Summary: This study was performed under the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Before it started, the flow work and inclusion/exclusion criteria were published as a protocol in PROSPERO (CRD42021273705). We conducted a comprehensive search on December 10, 2022, on international online databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, Science Direct, PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, SID, ISC, and Magiran search engine, to find pertinent publications. Some studies were chosen based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Altogether, 1,243 Iranian patients from 13 articles were considered. In total, we identified 129 distinct disease-causing variants in PAH (20 novel variants), 29 in QDPR (17 novel variants), 15 in PTS (seven novel variants), and one novel variant in PCD. Twenty disease-causing variants for PAH, 18 for QDPR, and 8 for PTS are included in the genes’ proposed genetic diagnostic panels. These panels include more than 75% of the documented disease-causing variants in the Iranian population. Key Messages: The findings of this research illustrated the spectrum of disease-causing variants in the PAH, QDPR, PTS, and PCD genes identified in Iranian HPA patients. Common disease-causing variants of these genes may be chosen as a preliminary diagnostic panel for early diagnosis and lowering therapy costs.
The Association between the Morphology of Vessels in Primary Cutaneous Melanoma on Dermoscopy, with the Breslow Index, the Presence of Ulceration, and the Dermoscopic Signs of Extensive Regression
Authors: Bañuls José , Francés Laura , Nagore Eduardo , Armengot-Carbó Miquel , Llambrich Alex , Sanchez-Pujol María José , Palazon Juan Carlos , Niveiro María , Zaballos Pedro
Published: January 2023

Background: Dermoscopy is a noninvasive technique for the diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma that may play a role in the preoperative assessment of melanoma thickness. With this technique, several vascular morphologies have been identified. The objectives of this study are to study the presence and morphology of blood vessels in a series of primary melanomas and to investigate whether they are related to the Breslow index, the presence of ulceration, and extensive dermoscopic regression. Methods: This cross-sectional study included nonacral, nonfacial primary melanomas, with dermoscopic images from four hospitals in Spain. The outcome variables were the Breslow index, the presence of dermoscopic ulceration, and an extensive dermoscopic regression. The explicative variables were the presence of vessels, the predominant vessel in the most raised area of the melanoma, and the presence of polymorphous vessels. To study the association between qualitative variables and the Breslow index, we used the Kruskal-Wallis test or Mann-Whitney U test and between qualitative variables, the χ2 test. To study the magnitude of the association, the ORs (95% CI) were calculated. Results: A set of 516 images from melanomas was collected. The presence of vessels was associated with thicker melanomas (p < 0.001). Vessel type was associated with different Breslow indexes (p < 0.001) (arborizing, linear irregular, corkscrew, glomerular, hairpin, and dotted vessels (in decreasing order)). The polymorphous vessels were associated with thicker melanomas (p < 0.001). Linear irregular vessels were associated with ulceration (OR = 10.6, 95% CI 4.9–24.0, p < 0.001) and dotted vessels with the presence of extensive dermoscopic regression (OR = 2.7, 95% CI 1.4–5.2, p = 0.003). The main limitations of this study were the high selection of cases and the difficulty in identifying vessels in pigmented melanomas by dermoscopy. Conclusions: The morphology of blood vessels in cutaneous melanoma on dermoscopy is associated with the Breslow index, the presence of ulceration, and extensive dermoscopic regression.
Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Patients with Autoimmune Bullous Dermatoses: A Cohort Study Analysis of a Rare Disease Group
Authors: Hübner Stefanie , Sarhan Maysa , Schauer Franziska
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Autoimmune bullous diseases (AIBD) are a heterogeneous group of rare autoantibody-mediated blistering dermatoses of the skin and/or mucous membranes. Their incidence is around 20 new cases per million inhabitants per year in Germany. Patients with chronic, oncological, or rare diseases often urge for a holistic therapeutic approach that includes complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). So far, only few contradictory reports on CAM in pemphigoid or pemphigus disease exist. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency, motives, and satisfaction with the use of alternative treatments in patients with AIBD and to provide a basis for further investigation. Methods: We used a structured online questionnaire, consisting of 20 questions to survey patients with AIBD and their relatives. The German pemphigus and pemphigoid self-help groups were responsible for distributing anonymized questionnaires. In total, we recovered 97 questionnaires, 63 of which met full inclusion criteria (24 males and 39 females). Results: Of the included participants, more than half had a currently active disease. Of all patients, 58.7% stated that they had used CAM at least once. Women were more likely to use CAM, whereas age and education showed no association to CAM use. The main motives for using CAM were “doing something for oneself” and “opportunity to contribute to treatment” (38.1% each). The internet (23.8%) was the most common source of information, and vitamins were the most frequently used therapy (49.2%). Conclusion: Our results provide new insights into the demand for CAM within this rare disease patient group. Physicians should be aware of these methods to meet patient needs but also be able to identify potential barriers such as risks and interactions.
Association of Socioeconomic Status and Oral Cancer Mortality in Brazil: Temporal Trends and Spatial Distribution
Authors: Pereira Natanael Eric Batista , da Rocha Rodrigues de Oliveira Deane Cristina , Bezerra Santos Marcio , Santos Priscila Lima dos , Tavares Débora dos Santos
Published: January 2023

Objective: The objective of this observational study was to evaluate the relationship between the oral cancer mortality rate and socioeconomic indicators throughout the Brazilian territory, between 2010 and 2019. Method: The variables used in this study were oral cancer mortality rates from the Mortality Information System (SIM) and population data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) to calculate oral cancer mortality rates, along with the Human Development Index (HDI) and Social Vulnerability Index (SVI). The analysis was performed in tertile stratifications (Microsoft Excel 16.0), while temporal trends were examined by segmented linear regression (JoinPoint 4.9.0). Results: High mortality rates were observed in more developed regions (South and Southeast), whereas temporal analysis showed significant increasing trends in the North (annual percentage changes [APC] = +3.9%; p < 0.05) and Northeast (APC = +2.4%; p < 0.05) regions. The greater HDI (APC = +1.7%; p < 0.05) and SVI (APC = +2.2%; p < 0.05) tertiles had the lowest annual percentage increase, showing an inverse relationship between the temporal trend of mortality and socioeconomic indicators. Conclusion: Despite the higher number of oral cancer deaths in regions with higher social indices, increasing temporal trends are more accentuated in regions with lower socioeconomic levels.
COVID-19 pandemic influence on undergraduate female engineering students’ performance in Bangladesh
Authors: Khan Sher Shermin Azmiri , Bhuyan Muhibul Haque
Published: January 2023

This paper explores the impact of the online teaching-learning of the Computer Science and Engineering program’s female students at the Central Women’s University in Bangladesh due to the COVID-19 epidemic. A survey was directed to comprehend the students’ perspectives on online engineering education. The performances of the same students under the same course instructor of various courses as well as of different students under the same course instructor of the same courses before the pandemic and during the pandemic were investigated. After that, this paper analyzed students’ experiences of the evaluation method before and during the outbreak, and then found out the transformation of the students’ concerns regarding online engineering education. The research was based on the student surveys and observations, and their academic performances. All indicators exhibited that the procedure that was implemented had a positive impact on students’ achievement. Students’ involvement, particularly in the core courses that are essential to fulfilling their degrees, had improved. Furthermore, students gained more precise and constructive knowledge from the course teachers during the pandemic, as such the impact on the students’ learning due to the online teaching of Computer Science and Engineering students were positive than before the pandemic.
Factors affecting the decision to choose a university of high school students: A study in An Giang Province, Vietnam
Authors: Chi Hai Nguyen , Thanh Nguyen Ho , Chau To Minh , Sang Ta Van , Dong Vo Hoang
Published: January 2023

It is important to provide high school students with the necessary information for them to consult and make a decision to choose a university. The study aims to identify and evaluate the influence of factors in the decision to choose a university for high school students. The questionnaire survey method was used to collect data from 393 students from eight high schools in An Giang Province, Vietnam. Exploratory factor analysis and linear regression were used to analyze the data. The research results show that students are quite satisfied and quite certain with their decision to choose a university, while there are six important factors affecting the decision to choose a university. Influential factors with decreasing order of magnitude are: i) Factors consulted by teachers, family, friends, and relatives; ii) Factors of future job opportunities; iii) Factors of media activities; iv) Factors of learning conditions; v) Factors of university reputation; vi) Factors belong to the students themselves. The findings of the study show that there is no statistically significant difference between the group of males and females, between grades 10, 11, and 12. Besides, there is a statistically significant difference between students in high schools. The findings of this study have theoretical and practical implications for university admissions in Vietnam. Proposals made to university administrators were discussed. From the research results, we want to help students find the right university, and support universities to improve the efficiency of admissions.
The enjoyable online learning model for vocational students during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Mulyatiningsih Endang , Palupi Sri , Ekawatiningsih Prihastuti , Firdausa Ambar Rizqi , Nuryana Zalik
Published: January 2023

The COVID-19 outbreak has forced all courses to be carried out online. This study aims to explain the characteristics of an enjoyable online learning model based on the platform, the content, and the learning strategy for vocational students. Data was collected using closed-ended and open-ended questionnaires which were responded to by 110 students in 2019/2020. The closed-ended questionnaire revealed the most preferred learning elements, and the open-ended questionnaire was to clarify their reasons. The data were arranged sequentially from the quantitative data to the qualitative data. The results of the study showed that: i) The preferred online platforms were Moodle, Google Meet, and WhatsApp. They like Moodle because the content is well structured, Google Meet is easily accessible, and WhatsApp is their daily routine application; ii) The learning content consists of two to three resources namely: 6-10 pages of papers, 11-15 pages PowerPoint, and 6-10 minutes videos. Too much content causes a heavy learning burden; iii) Most students preferred the blended learning strategy. The synchronous lectures for 60-75 minutes can motivate them because they can interact with lecturers and other students. Asynchronous lectures are more flexible that can be done anytime and anywhere so that the students become more independent in their learning.
Pre-service English teachers’ motivation to pursue a career in teaching viewed from speaking self-efficacy
Authors: Hartono Hartono , Hidayati Nani , Wiyaka Wiyaka
Published: January 2023

Previous research on pre-service teachers’ motivation to pursue a career in teaching found different results. Some research found altruistic motivation dominant in determining career decisions, while others suggest extrinsic or intrinsic motivation. The current study extended the topic by relating pre-service English teachers’ motivation to teach to English-speaking self-efficacy. There were 94 pre-service English teachers of different semesters participated in this study. Data were collected with a Likert-type questionnaire. Pre-service English teachers have a high motivation to pursue a career in teaching, and extrinsic motivation was the most dominant motive. The nobility of the profession, sustainability of job demand, inspiration from the teachers, and flexible working hours are among the extrinsic motives. The pre-service teachers also have a high level of English-speaking self-efficacy. However, they still have problems with anxiety, the use of idioms, the use of accurate grammar and vocabulary, and fluency. Between motivation to teach and their speaking self-efficacy lies a significant positive correlation at a moderate level. This moderate level of the relationship suggests that English-speaking self-efficacy is not a determining factor in motivating pre-service English teachers to have a career in teaching. Consequently, some English teachers may have inadequate proficiency in the language they teach.
Effect of interactive computer simulations on academic performance and learning motivation of Rwandan students in Atomic Physics
Authors: Tuyizere Gerard , Yadav Lakhan Lal
Published: January 2023

Physics course is seen by both teachers and students as difficult when it comes to teaching and learning. Thus, there is a need to think of and integrate new and innovative ways of teaching which guarantee students an improved physics conceptual understanding. This study investigated the effect of interactive computer simulations on the academic performance and learning motivation of students. It used a quasi-experimental design with a quantitative approach. The participants were 163 senior five Rwandan students (80 students in a control group and 83 students in an experimental group). The investigation was done on students’ learning in atomic physics using physics education technology (PhET) simulations for the experimental group and conventional teaching methods for the control group. An atomic physics achievement test as a pre/post-test and a questionnaire related to motivation were designed and examined for reliability and validity. Data were analyzed by means of descriptive and inferential statistics. On both test scores and learning motivation, the results show that the experimental group performed better than the control group with noticeable statistically significant differences. This research recommended that the integration of interactive computer simulations can be helpful in teaching and learning physics in Rwanda and future research may focus on the effectiveness of these simulations in the teaching and learning of other science disciplines like Chemistry and Biology.
Hoax behavior tendencies among Indonesian students: An analysis during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Afdal Afdal , Fikri Miftahul , Neviyarni Neviyarni , Iswari Mega , Sukmawati Indah , Firman Firman , Karneli Yeni , Mardianto Mardianto , Hariko Rezki
Published: January 2023

The objective of this study was to analyze the hoax behavior tendencies among Indonesian students during the pandemic, viewed from the aspects of analytical thinking, basic science knowledge, trust in news sources, satisfaction, and action. A total of 633 male and female students from Indonesian universities were sampled used a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected through the hoax tendency behavior scale (HTBS) on 30 questions using a Likert scale. Then, the data were analyzed descriptively to evaluate the hoax behavior tendencies in adolescents during the pandemic, which the results revealed to be in the medium category. Therefore, the analytical thinking skills of adolescents need to be improved, as 31.75% and 2.53% were in the low and very low categories. The study showed that adolescents with an average age of 20 years spreading hoaxes were motivated by basic knowledge of science, trust in news sources, satisfaction, and action. However, there was no significant influence of gender, parental income, and areas of residence, such as rural, urban, and suburban, on those that exhibit hoax behaviors.
Blended learning: Adoption pattern of online classrooms in higher education
Authors: Haryono Kholid , Hamzah Almed
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to describe the patterns of technology usage. Specifically, on the implementation of blended learning (BL) in higher education institutions. The case study explores usage patterns, influencing factors, and success factors. The data sources came from the Google Classroom log activity of 35 departments, consisting of five vocational programs, 28 undergraduate programs, and two professional programs in a university for three years with an average in a semester. A method called the customer window quadrant (CWQ) was utilized to analyze the pattern. In addition, a questionnaire was deployed to measure the teacher’s satisfaction with using the Google Classroom in a blended learning setting. The results show two dominant activities in Google Classroom, namely assigning tasks and quizzes. For the quiz, there were two popular question types, i.e., multiple-choice and short answers questions. The activity of using the Google Classroom has doubled in the three years. Assigning tasks to projects becomes the task in the Google Classroom. The usage patterns of Google Classroom are based on the level of importance. There are three activities considered the most important, namely creating class, topic, and material course. Moreover, the most influencing factors are stability, convenience, simplicity, velocity, and reliability.
The symbolic thinking ability of kindergarten students in central Aceh through Montessori games based on gender
Authors: Rahmadhani Elfi , Wahyuni Septia , Mandasari Lola
Published: January 2023

Student’s cognitive abilities can be developed early, including thinking logically and symbolically and problem-solving using various methods. Therefore, this quantitative descriptive research aims to determine the symbolic thinking ability of kindergarten students through Montessori games based on gender. The subjects of this study were 112 kindergarten students from eight schools in the Central Aceh district who were selected by random sampling. Data processing techniques include editing, coding, scoring, and tabulation. The analysis was carried out using a frequency table with guidelines for assessing child development. Data were obtained from tests, observations, and interviews. Based on the analysis, it is known that the symbolic thinking abilities of male and female students are at the level of developing as expected. There are still students at the beginning to develop and undeveloped levels for both male and female students in this ability. There are differences in ability between male and female students, especially in indicators: i) Mentioning numbers 1-10 and ii) Counting and matching numbers with number symbols. While on the indicator of recognizing vowel and consonant symbols, there is no difference in ability between male and female students.
The learning environment as a predictor of higher order thinking skills
Authors: Omar Mohd Saifulkhair , Awang Mohd Isha
Published: January 2023

The learning environment is one of the elements that will influence higher-order thinking skills (HOTS). The purpose of this study was to test the influence of the learning environment on HOTS. The researcher selected 82 forms two students from two secondary schools in Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia, as the study sample. The researcher has adopted a set of questionnaires that have been developed by previous researchers and a questionnaire developed by the researcher himself. Multiple regression analysis has found that material environment and cooperation between students’ constructs are predictors of HOTS. Therefore, the Ministry of Education Malaysia as a stakeholder in the education sector in the country is expected to: i) Allocate ample expenditure to purchase and maintain all laboratory equipment and materials and ii) Organize workshops on the maintenance of laboratory equipment and materials for laboratory assistants in high school to ensure they are always in the best possible condition. The researcher suggested that future studies focus on producing maintenance modules for the materials and science equipment for laboratory assistants’ use. It is hoped that with this module, the focus on improving Malaysian students’ HOTS will be easily achieved by 2025.
Antigamente em Rouergue, Narrativas de Alice Bonneton-Lagru
Authors: Carvalho Olaci da Costa
Published: January 2023

Alice Bonneton-Lagru nasce em 23 de janeiro de 1920, na cidade de Kourou, na Guiana Francesa. Estuda no Colégio de  Caiena, também na Guiana francesa, até a conclusão de seus estudos secundários. Aos 28 anos, parte à França onde obtém seus estudos universitários. Para este número, escolhemos traduzir alguns contos representativos de fatos ou pessoas gravados na mente da narradora. Optamos também por traduzir alguns contos que, a nosso ver, são característicos de uma certa universalidade em tempos passados, como, por exemplo, a comunicação por cartas ou a figura da parteira, presente em diferentes partes do mundo, tão comumente encontrada em regiões brasileiras, especialmente, na Amazônia.
“La Guyane reste au cœur de mon travail” – Entretien avec Catherine Le Pelletier
Authors: Pelletier Catherine Le , Rocha Vanessa Massoni da
Published: January 2023

Catherine Le Pelletier est docteure ès Lettres et maître de conférences, associée à l’Université des Antilles. Dans un entretien accordé à Vanessa Massoni da Rocha, l’intellectuelle d’origine guyanaise parcourt – de manière didactique et généreuse – des thèmes importants de l’univers littéraire de la Guyane. Située en Amérique du Sud, plus précisément entre le Surinam et le Brésil, la Guyane est un département français d’outre-mer depuis 1946.
A ‘marronização’ da Bíblia entre autores guianenses
Authors: Raad Marie-Simone , Ribeiro Rosária Cristina Costa
Published: January 2023

Na Guiana Francesa, nós podemos perceber uma forte presença da religião católica na vida de seus habitantes por meio do emprego sistemático de expressões em língua crioula. Essas expressões em crioulo guianense acentuam a cristianização desse Departamento Ultramarino cuja religião principal é, sem dúvidas, o catolicismo. Os guianenses se embebem dessa cultura dominante esquecendo, consequentemente, sua própria identidade. Assim, alguns autores, como Michel Lohier ou ainda Léon-Gontran Damas, para citar apenas alguns, propõem uma reescritura da Bíblia, em uma versão marronizada. Com efeito, esses autores ilustram por meio de seus textos a dupla identidade da língua crioula da América, dividida entre a cultura europeia e a africana.
Narrativas bíblicas na Literatura Guianense: uma análise de Abel... de Lyne-Marie Stanley
Authors: Sales Kall Lyws Barroso , Ribeiro Rosária Cristina  Costa
Published: January 2023

A Bíblia, um dos mais disseminados livros do Ocidente, é fonte inesgotável de narrativas que dialogam com diversas tradições literárias. É o que podemos contemplar no romance de Lyne-Marie Stanley, Abel..., de 2006. Lyne-Marie é uma representante da literatura contemporânea da Guiana Francesa e nesse romance explora a relação fraterna entre Belphegor e Urbain. A narrativa é cercada de referências judaico-cristãs, em que todo núcleo familiar contribui para a criação de uma intriga que serve como ensejo para a abordagem da atual situação política da Guiana Francesa. A partir da reflexão sobre identidades fragmentadas (HALL, 2006) e sobre discurso e colonialismo (CÉSAIRE, 2010), em nossa metodologia, apresentamos uma análise na perspectiva de literatura comparada fundamentada na confrontação da narrativa romanesca de Stanley com a narrativa bíblica apresentada no ‘Livro do Gênesis’, capítulo 4. Assim, em nosso trabalho, sistematizamos as características encontradas na narrativa do primeiro fratricídio da humanidade, narrado na história dos filhos de Adão e Eva, Caim e Abel e as referências da tradição cristã. Dessa forma, nossas leituras e análises procuram destacar o paralelismo criado pelo romance, a partir da intertextualidade com a narrativa bíblica, em que as representações e relações entre Caim e Abel fazem um espelhamento das discussões entre emancipação e assimilação política, administrativa e cultural desse departamento francês tão distante e diverso do Hexágono.
Literatura da Guiana Francesa: introdução ao regaço lítero-franco-amazônico
Authors: Silva-Reis Dennys , Ribeiro Rosária Costa
Published: January 2023

Nesta edição da Cadernos de Literatura em Tradução em que buscamos conhecer e reconhecer a literatura guianense, apresentamos trabalhos que recobrem, se não totalmente, dada a impossibilidade da tarefa, um bom recorte dessa ilustre quase desconhecida dos estudos acadêmicos e dos leitores de nosso país. Neste volume, contamos com artigos, traduções e entrevistas a respeito da literatura guianense em três gêneros literários: poesia, teatro e narrativa. Nosso objetivo é, ao longo das leituras aqui propostas, fortalecer os laços e trabalhos já existentes, bem como proporcionar ao neófito e à neófita um panorama mínimo da riqueza caleidoscópica da literatura da Guiana Francesa. Literatura esta que possui muitos pontos de contato com a literatura brasileira, ao mesmo tempo que guarda traços próprios bem característicos.
Integrative taxonomy and evolutionary ecology of the anthophilous Drosophila lutzii species complex (Diptera, Drosophilidae) provide evidence for range expansion of Drosophila alei
Authors: Carvalho Tuane Letícia , Cordeiro Juliana , Nornberg Bruna , Schmitz Hermes José , Robe Lizandra Jaqueline
Published: January 2023

Cryptic species represent a substantial fraction of the diversity of Drosophilidae, hampering studies on species ecologies and their evolution. Anthophilous species within the Drosophila lutzii group encompass some of the most widely distributed Neotropical lineages. Nevertheless, their ranges, ecologies, divergence times, and phylogenetic relationships are largely unknown. In this study, we analyzed the cryptic diversity of the lutzii species complex occurring in Southern Brazil and shed light on the ecological and evolutionary processes underlying their current patterns of coexistence. We used an integrative approach, evaluating molecular, ecological, and morphological traits under an evolutionary ecology framework. We documented the unexpected occurrence of D. alei in Southern Brazil, whose range was only known for the Andean region. Our phylogenetic analysis indicated that despite morphological similarities, D. alei is more closely related to D. denieri than to D. lutzii, and that divergence among these three species dates back to the Neogene (7.3 Mya). Niche modeling suggests that D. denieri and D. lutzii populations expanded their ranges and were established in Southern Brazil during the Quaternary (150 kya), being affected by similar paleoclimatic events. On the other hand, D. alei shows distinct abiotic requirements than D. denieri and D. lutzii, and environmental distribution models suggested a significant reduction in its suitable areas during the Quaternary, especially in Southern Brazil. This suggests that the current sympatry observed in this region likely reflects a secondary contact between the three species resulting from niche divergence processes. Altogether, these results advance the understanding of the distribution and phylogenetic relationships of Neotropical anthophilous Drosophila, revealing the interplay between ecological and historical factors in their speciation.