bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The hidden power of provincial and territorial immigration programs in shaping Canada’s immigration landscape
Authors: Xhardez Catherine , Tanguay Danoé
Published: December 2024

The Canadian immigration system is unique in that subnational governments play a significant role in selecting immigrants through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which empower nine provinces and two territories to actively select (“nominate”) economic immigrants. Collectively, PNPs have become the country’s largest economic immigration program, but they are also the least studied, leading to a lack of understanding, transparency, and accountability. Using a subnational comparative method, this study examines 78 active subnational immigration programs (policy outputs), investigating policy design, requirements, and distribution of nominations in 2021–2022. We assess whether PNPs contribute to broader changes in the Canadian immigration regime. First, our analysis reveals the prevalence of employment-based streams and prearranged work as a selection criterion. Second, we show nuanced policy outputs in the progression toward a two-step system, with provincial variation in requirements for prior Canadian experience. Third, while PNPs are open to low-skilled workers, programs tailored exclusively to this group remain relatively limited. This comparative analysis reveals significant inter-provincial variation, and highlights the importance of a “disaggregated” evaluation of the migration state at the subnational level.
Beyond reliability: assessing rater competence when using a behavioural marker system
Authors: Smith Samantha Eve , McColgan-Smith Scott , Stewart Fiona , Mardon Julie , Tallentire Victoria Ruth
Published: December 2024

Background

Behavioural marker systems are used across several healthcare disciplines to assess behavioural (non-technical) skills, but rater training is variable, and inter-rater reliability is generally poor. Inter-rater reliability provides data about the tool, but not the competence of individual raters. This study aimed to test the inter-rater reliability of a new behavioural marker system (PhaBS — pharmacists’ behavioural skills) with clinically experienced faculty raters and near-peer raters. It also aimed to assess rater competence when using PhaBS after brief familiarisation, by assessing completeness, agreement with an expert rater, ability to rank performance, stringency or leniency, and avoidance of the halo effect.

Methods

Clinically experienced faculty raters and near-peer raters attended a 30-min PhaBS familiarisation session. This was immediately followed by a marking session in which they rated a trainee pharmacist’s behavioural skills in three scripted immersive acute care simulated scenarios, demonstrating good, mediocre, and poor performances respectively. Inter-rater reliability in each group was calculated using the two-way random, absolute agreement single-measures intra-class correlation co-efficient (ICC). Differences in individual rater competence in each domain were compared using Pearson’s chi-squared test.

Results

The ICC for experienced faculty raters was good at 0.60 (0.48–0.72) and for near-peer raters was poor at 0.38 (0.27–0.54). Of experienced faculty raters, 5/9 were competent in all domains versus 2/13 near-peer raters (difference not statistically significant). There was no statistically significant difference between the abilities of clinically experienced versus near-peer raters in agreement with an expert rater, ability to rank performance, stringency or leniency, or avoidance of the halo effect. The only statistically significant difference between groups was ability to compete the assessment (9/9 experienced faculty raters versus 6/13 near-peer raters, p = 0.0077).

Conclusions

Experienced faculty have acceptable inter-rater reliability when using PhaBS, consistent with other behaviour marker systems; however, not all raters are competent. Competence measures for other assessments can be helpfully applied to behavioural marker systems. When using behavioural marker systems for assessment, educators must start using such rater competence frameworks. This is important to ensure fair and accurate assessments for learners, to provide educators with information about rater training programmes, and to provide individual raters with meaningful feedback.
Wealth Inequality, Aggregate Consumption, and Macroeconomic Trends under Incomplete Markets
Authors: Lee Byoungchan
Published: December 2024

I construct an incomplete market model featuring a closed-form expression for optimal consumption. In the model, individual consumption is an isoelastic function of wealth, inclusive of income, yielding partial consumption smoothing based on borrowing and lending in response to income shocks. I show that the model replicates several empirical characteristics of inequality in consumption, income, and wealth and their dynamics at the individual level. Using the model, I show that the rising wealth inequality since the 1980s, induced by an increase in idiosyncratic income risk, has substantially contributed to trend-level changes in real interest rates, capital-to-income ratios, and consumption-to-wealth ratios. (JEL D31, D52, E21, E43, G51)
‘Abd al-Jabbar’s Apologetical Arguments Opposing Christian Christology: A Critical Analysis from the Viewpoint of Epistemological Argumentation Theory
Authors: İnce Serkan
Published: December 2024

This paper advocates the use of modern argumentation theories in Islamic theological discourse. While the Islamic tradition has its own argumentation theories, modern terminology and theory can aid in interpretive understanding and critical analysis. The article focuses on ʿAbd al-Jabbār’s (d. 415/1025) Tathbīt, which utilizes the rational methods of kalām and radd to counter Christianity. The author exemplarily analyzes ʿAbd al-Jabbār’s argument against the Christian claim of the divine nature of Jesus and argues for historical theological texts to be examined for their argumentativeness, as well as for the value of analytical and argumentation theories in understanding the history and development of argumentative theology.
Os ‘anjos caídos’ de Plínio Marcos
Authors: Cornelsen Elcio Loureiro
Published: December 2024

Nossa contribuição visa a enfocar uma obra específica do jornalista, ator, dramaturgo e escritor Plínio Marcos (1935-1999), praticamente esquecida do público leitor e daqueles que se dedicam a estudar sua vida e sua vasta produção teatral e literária: a coletânea de contos publicada em 1977 com o título Inútil canto e inútil pranto pelos anjos caídos. Marcada por um estilo narrativo todo próprio, entre reportagem e locução, essa obra expressa, ficcionalmente, as mazelas e a violência na década de 1970, sob jugo da ditadura civil-militar. Sem dúvida, o próprio fazer artístico e literário naquele contexto representava um ato de resistência à censura e de denúncia às injustiças sociais e políticas do período por um ‘poeta do submundo’, ‘Dramaturgo maldito’ e ‘repórter de um tempo mau’.
Para além da música
Authors: Dos Santos Fernandes Leandro
Published: December 2024

O presente texto analisa a trajetória do artista Gilberto Gil entre o período de 1964 a 1967, tendo como enfoque a sua atuação com o meio teatral brasileiro, sobretudo nas cidades de Salvador e São Paulo. Neste sentido, demostramos alguns aspectos políticos e ideológicos das companhias teatrais, os quais Gil teve relação, assim como, dos espetáculos em que participou. Também abordamos como o regime ditatorial civil-militar, por meio da censura, reprimiu e protagonizou atos diretos de violência física ao meio teatral brasileiro. E, por fim, destacamos como a relação de Gilberto Gil com a esquerda engajada dos anos 1960 é pouco explorada nos trabalhos acadêmicos e nas obras sobre a sua vida e carreira artística.
Preliminary Empirical Findings on the Adapted Faith Development Model for a Muslim Context
Authors: Ok Üzeyir , Gennerich Carsten
Published: December 2024

The theory of faith development was criticized from a Muslim perspective, and a modified bipolar orthogonal dimensional version of the model (low-to-high level of cognitive development vs. low-to-high level of commitment) with eight dimensions was subsequently proposed in two previous studies. The aim of this third study is to provide empirical findings to support the proposed model of religiosity styles (content and structure) in a Muslim context. To this end, two sets of data were employed using a group comparison design. In Study 1, the sample (n = 934) was conveniently selected from the campuses of three different Turkish state universities (454 men and 480 women, with a mean age of 22). The instruments used for data collection were adapted from items of previously developed scales aimed at measuring Muslim religiosity. In Study 2, a second mixed sample of 165 participants was selected, comprising university students and members of the general public (54 men and 111 women, with a mean age of 28). The instrument for data collection was constructed by transforming the Likert response format of previously employed scales into a semantic differential format and adding several new items to the battery to measure areas in the proposed model that the available data did not cover. Data were analysed using factor analysis, item analysis, and correlation analyses. The findings from the two studies broadly supported the theoretically proposed eight concepts of religiosity represented in a circumplex model of religiosity styles with the two bipolar dimensions of “Hight vs. Low Differentiation” and “High commitment vs. High non-commitment”.
Ἔρις and ‘Hesiodic Society’ of the Iron Age
Authors: Burliga Bogdan
Published: December 2024

In this article I turn attention to the role of Eris (‘Strife’/’Discord’) in Hesiod’s Opera et dies. Namely, I attempt to consider the question of extent to which the role of the personified deity of ‘Strife’, so evidently exposed in the poem, as well as the related story (μῦθος) of the Iron Age, can be interpreted as a Hesiodic ‘commentary’ on the socio-political reality of his time.
Alcinous’ Garden – Archetypical, Paradigmatic or Simply Imagined?
Authors: Bzinkowski Michał
Published: December 2024

In this article, I offer a new reading of the well-known passus from Homer’s Odyssey containing a description of the so-called ‘garden of Alcinous’ (Od. 7, 112–132). In the first instance, I draw attention to a context in the Homeric epic, given the formulaic language of the epic and the ambiguity of reading certain terms. In the following section, I focus on the presence of this passus in works of selected Byzantine authors, attempting to answer the question for what purpose they used this very reference. Finally, I try to show the reception of the aforementioned motif in modern times, namely in 18th century Britain, where it appears as a reflection of a lost ideal that needs to be recreated and adapted to new times. All of this serves, on the one hand, to refute the commonly held opinions repeated by historians of gardening that the first model of gardens could be found as early as Homer. Secondly, my findings also cast doubt on the question of the garden of Alcinous as a model for Byzantine literary gardens. Thirdly, they show to what extent the bearing of certain ideas can be misrepresented in translation and what consequences this issue has.
A Note on the Etymology of Brūtes/Brūtis ‘a (Latin-Speaking?) Bride’
Authors: Piwowarczyk Dariusz R.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this article is to trace the etymology of the Late Latin word brūtes/brūtis ‘(Latin-speaking?) wife’ and try to decide whether the exact origin of this word can go back without doubt to the Gothic form *brūþs attested in the form of the acc. sg. in the Gothic translation of the Bible made by the bishop Wulfila in the 4th century AD, as is usually assumed in the scholarly literature. It is concluded that the origins of the word should rather be traced to East Germanic *brūþiz although all of the details are still not clear due to the lack of direct evidence and other hypotheses should also be considered.
Innovative and Integrated Development of Single-Industry Production Structures of the Transport Market of the National Economy
Authors: Hutsaliuk O. , Bondar Iu. , Boiko O.
Published: December 2024

The article considers the development of single-industry enterprises of the transport market of the national economy and the features of transport-economic formations of single-industry production structures. It has been determined that the formation of single-industry enterprises depends on a number of factors, the leading place is occupied by transport, which forms the infrastructure of the country's economic complex, reflects the development and arrangement of production and consumption, that is, the formation, functioning and development of production forces. The interrelations of transport infrastructure in the production process are analyzed and it is determined that among business entities that reflect the complexity of political, economic and social transformations, there are single-industry enterprises with a city-forming character of influence, that is, those enterprises whose performance determines the development of the vast majority of the country's settlements. The formation, formation and development of intersectoral complexes of the regional economy depends both on the state and on single-industry enterprises that have a formative influence on the city, their industry focus, specialization, ownership, human resources, transport accessibility and security, which determine the specifics, types and level of their development. The subjects that determine the formation and development of single-industry enterprises are considered, the main of which is the state as the main political organization of society, which protects the economic and social structure in a certain state territory, as well as a set of state authorities that have concentrated economic power, make economic decisions on a national scale, dispose state property. It has been substantiated that the performance of single-industry enterprises necessitates the development of additional ser-vices covering various areas of activity, in particular, those related to the provision of a range of services, training of new professions, the creation of new types of products and new types of business, which increases the efficiency of resource use and specific features of the territory of their location.
Іnnovative Development of Ukraine in Conditions of Transformational Changes
Authors: Shevchuk O. , Klymovych O.
Published: December 2024

The study explores the innovative development of Ukraine under transformational changes, with a focus on political, economic, and social challenges. The analysis identifies critical issues stemming from military aggression, including damaged infrastructure, disrupted supply chains, and resource scarcity, which hinder innovation. Key challenges, such as funding constraints and workforce displacement, are highlighted, emphasizing their impact on the innovation ecosystem. The research evaluates global and regional innovation indices, comparing Ukraine's performance with leading and transitional economies. The findings reveal a significant decline in Ukraine's global innovation ranking due to economic instability and structural challenges. However, the study notes the resilience of certain sectors, such as IT, and the emergence of innovative solutions addressing war-induced problems. Recommendations for boosting Ukraine's innovation system include enhancing financial support for R&D, fostering international collaboration, and investing in human capital development. The study underlines the necessity of strategic policy reforms to rebuild Ukraine's innovation infrastructure, ensuring its alignment with global trends and contributing to economic recovery.
Endogenous and Exogenous Factors of Industrial Development of Territories of Different Functional Types: Systematization for Establishing the Priorities of State’s Influence
Authors: Snigova O.
Published: December 2024

The study is aimed to determine and systemize the factors of regional development, influencing industrial activity of territories of different functional types, based on the criterion of endogeneity and exogeneity of the sources of industrial changes, and to substantiate the priorities of state’s influence when territorially-oriented mechanisms of industrial development will be introduced. The proposals are prepared for improvement the basics of governmental policy in the sphere of industrial development taken into account the spatial aspect. The emphasis has been done at the need to ensure the balanced realization of regional industrial potential and efficient transformation of regional industrial systems in order to build the national economy’s competitiveness. The factors of regional development, influencing the industrial activity of functional types of territories are suggested as targets of the system of criterial assessment of communities’ and territories’ attribution to certain functional types.
Analysis of Institutional Aspects of Smart Industry Development in Ukraine
Authors: Serdiuk O.
Published: December 2024

Based on the analysis of the works of domestic scientists and the synthesis of the semantic meaning of the constituent terms, the content of the concept of "smart industry" was determined. It was established that the official regulatory documents existing in Ukraine (National Economic Strategy until 2030 and the Strategy for the Recovery, Sustainable Development and Digital Transformation of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises for the Period until 2027) contain separate provisions on the development of factors that collectively contribute to the formation of smart industry. In particular, these are provisions on the development of Industry 4.0, promoting innovative activity, and strengthening digital transformation. It was established that the regulatory documents do not contain a clear algorithm for the implementation of measures, due to which the institutional support for the development factors of smart industry is potentially ineffective. The feasibility of using a strategy structure is justified, which, along with the goals, objectives and measures for the development of smart industry, will contain provisions on assessing the ability of the process subjects to fulfill their responsibilities, on the basis of which the mechanism for implementing the measures provided for by the strategy will be determined.
Implementation of Artificial Intelligence Technologies in the Work of the Sales Department
Authors: Hrynko Ya.
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in the work of sales departments in enterprises. The paper emphasizes the importance of AI as a tool for optimizing business processes in the context of economic challenges, particularly within the framework of the war in Ukraine, which has led to labor market instability and financial difficulties. Automation of routine tasks, analysis of large data volumes, and increasing personalization of customer interactions are key aspects of AI use in sales departments, which significantly reduces costs and increases productivity. AI is defined as a branch of computer science that develops systems and algorithms capable of performing tasks traditionally considered intellectual for humans. This includes information processing, data-based learning, adaptation to new conditions, and decision-making. The essence of AI lies in creating technologies that can analyze complex data, recognize patterns, understand natural language, and engage in creativity. In the context of the research topic, the article provides AI tools for sales departments in enterprises: sales automation: data analysis and forecasting; personalization of customer interactions; query processing and customer support; lead management; sales forecasting. It is substantiated that these tools help companies optimize processes in sales departments, increase team efficiency, and improve customer interactions. The article presents an author's practical model for optimizing human resources, which includes reducing staff while simultaneously increasing the efficiency of the remaining employees through AI implementation. It is shown that such a model not only optimizes work processes but also enhances the financial stability of the enterprise. The article also explores the stages of AI integration, from business process analysis to practical implementation and result evaluation. The results confirm that the implementation of AI in sales departments is a strategically important step for enhancing the competitiveness of enterprises in the face of modern economic challenges.
The “Mariupol Process” by Vdovychenko in the context of archetypal criticism
Authors: Dmytrenko Viktoriia , Blednova Olga
Published: December 2024

The article analyzes the novel by the modern Ukrainian writer Halyna Vdovychenko – “TheMariupol process” (2015). This work is one of the first ones in Ukrainian literature dedicated to the events in eastern Ukraine. The work is the winner of the International competition “Coronation of the word” in the nomination “Grand Coronation of the word – 2015” (festival among the winners of the first prizes for 15 years of the competition). The writer considers the problem of military conflict in the field of private relations in the universal dimension. The work analyzes the issue in the context of archetypal criticism. The archetype of the House is singled out as a plot-creating element, which is fundamental in the human consciousness among the images-concepts created by man. This approach expands the reception of the novel, outlines one of the main vectors of its perception more clearly, universalizes the issue, fills with optimism about resolving the military conflict in Donbas. An ordinary house in the East of Ukraine near Mariupol is generalized in the novel to an image-symbol and becomes a kind of material manifestation of the archetype of the House. The floor destroyed by the fungus in one of his rooms is still a harbinger of the destruction of the basics of life, because the House for Ukrainians symbolizes protection, comfort, and stability. Its destruction deprives man of the first principle, makes him a rolling field. Halyna Vdovychenko presents the events of 2014 through a new dimension of the story about the rescue of the hero by a girl from the enemy camp known from ancient myths (Theseus – Ariadne, Jason – Medea, etc). Defender of the Houseland Roman from Lviv was seriously wounded and taken prisoner by militants in a village near Mariupol. He was saved from execution and torture by a local girl, a “separatist” Olha. They work hard together to destroy the fungus and save the house from destruction. Awareness of the situation through the archetype of the House allows optimizing the reception of the novel, to fill with hope for positive changes in Ukraine in the near future.
Existential image of woman in the works of Kobo Abe and Valery Shevchuk: a comparative aspect
Authors: Kozlov Anton
Published: December 2024

The article is dedicated to a deep analysis of the image of women in the context of existentialism and absurdity, as presented in the novels of Japanese writer Kobo Abe and Ukrainian author Valery Shevchuk. The authors investigate such works by Kobo Abe as “Woman in the Dunes”, “The Face of Another”, and “Almost Like a Person”, as well as Shevchuk's novels “House on the Hill”, “In the Humble Field”, and “Birds of the Invisible Island”. The research emphasizes how existential and absurd aspects manifest in the portrayal of female characters who face internal conflicts, the search for identity, and social constraints. Both authors use elements of surrealism to enhance the sense of unreality and absurdity, reflecting the complexities of women's roles in the modern world. The relevance of the work lies in the significant impact that the works of Abe and Shevchuk leave on literary discourse, reflecting the specificity of cultural contexts in Japan and Ukraine. Despite the rarity of comparative studies of these authors, the article demonstrates both similarities in their approaches to the representation of female images and the potential for further exploration of their works. The study opens new horizons for understanding the influence of existentialism on literature, highlighting the importance of the representation of women in the context of absurd existence.
Language means for creating comic effect in the humorous discourse
Authors: Tyshakova Liudmyla
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the mechanisms of creating comic effect in the humorous discourse. The following types of comic are defined: humor, satire, irony, sarcasm, invective, burlesque, travesty, grotesque. It is found that the understanding of humor depends on three factors: the situation of communication, the sender and the recipient of the message. The result of a humorous act is to find out the level of understanding of the participants in the situation. It has been found that there are three types of schemes that are very important for understanding humor: cognitive, formal and emotional. It is found that emotional schemes are more important for understanding humorous discourse than for other types of discourse. The linguistic means of representing the comic effect are singled out. Attention is focused on the theories that underlie the definition of the nature of the comic: exestential theories that aim to explain the essence of humor, the conditions that must be met in order to consider a statement humorous, and theological theories that focus on the purpose of using humor and how its mechanisms are determined by these goals. It is established that theories of humor are divided into three categories: theories of superiority, theories of discharge, and theories of incongruity. The main linguistic means used in humorous discourse are analyzed: phonetic means – shifting accent or changing intonation; lexical means – т comparison, homonymy, updated idioms and syntactic means – incorrect syntactic connection and the use of parallel syntactic constructions. The peculiarities of British and American humor as a linguistic and socio-cultural phenomenon are revealed. It is determined that humor, having much in common with the game, can itself be understood as a metaplay. This allows it to penetrate to such areas as politics, religion, and science.
Cognitive Aspects of Understanding and Interpreting an English-language Fiction Text (Based on J. R. R. Tolkien’s Novel)
Authors: Khairulina Nailia
Published: December 2024

The article under consideration explores the cognitive processes involved in the understanding and interpretation of English-language fiction, in particular, metaphors in J. R. R. Tolkien’s novel. The author analyses various cognitive aspects, such as semantic memory, working memory, interpretation processes, and representations that occur in the brain while reading a literary text. The study is based on cognitive linguistics, mental imagery theory, and a comparative analysis of texts in English and Ukrainian. The author applies cognitive analysis methods and empirical research to study the cognitive processes involved in understanding and interpreting an English-language literary text. Particular attention is paid to conceptual metaphors, frames, cognitive models, and peculiarities of interpretation of J. R. R. Tolkien’s literary heritage. Conceptual metaphor: The article analyses how J. R. R. Tolkien skilfully uses metaphors to create a living and diverse world of Middle-earth and how readers interpret these metaphors based on their cultural and cognitive schemes. Frames and scenarios: examines the typical scenarios and frames that activate readers when they read and how they influence their understanding of the plot and characters. Cognitive models: examines how readers construct their cognitive models of the world of Middleearth, which includes geography, history, culture, and social structures. Individual differences in interpretation describe how readers' characteristics, cultural context, and prior experiences influence how they perceive the text. The study provides a clear understanding of how readers interact with a literary text and how cognitive processes affect how we see literary works.
Implementing Wells' criteria to improve deep vein thrombosis screening in housebound patients
Authors: Abdulrahaman Claire , Bosun-Arije Stella Foluke
Published: December 2024

Background:

Screening of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is an NHS priority for improving community health service. Effective DVT screening and documentation improve patient outcomes, prevent prolonged hospitalisation and lead to fewer expenses. The lack of evidence of DVT screening in the community requires action. This Quality Improvement Project focuses on improving DVT screening and documentation for housebound patients in the community.

Aim:

To improve screening and documentation of DVT in four months by introducing several interventions in collaboration with one care community.

Methods:

The authors used a fishbone analysis and driver diagram to form three ‘Plan, Do, Study and Act’ cycles. The authors also developed a Wells' template, delivered a training session, had a team meeting with community nurses, audited their screening records and collected their feedback.

Findings:

There was a 74% increase in staff using the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines and 100% documentation of DVT assessment, of which 82% used the Wells' score template.

Conclusions:

DVT screening and documentation in community services can be optimised and sustained with training and monitoring.
Robert Bosch: Automotive Pioneer and Social Innovator
Authors: Smith Nick
Published: December 2024

With his name now a global brand, German engineer and industrialist Robert Bosch transformed the automotive component sector while introducing advanced social views.
Emergency department care experiences among youth with mental health concerns
Authors: Wells Laura K. , Bartels Susan A. , Nicholls Tania , Walker Melanie
Published: December 2024

Emergency departments (EDs) are important for mental health (MH) care among youth, however, are often ill equipped to meet their needs, resulting in care dissatisfaction. The objective of this research is to better understand the ED care experiences among youth with MH concerns. Data was used from a cross-sectional, mixed-methods study comparing ED care experiences among individuals who identify as equity-deserving with those who do not. Equity deserving groups are defined as individuals who face shared barriers to participating in society and care as a result of identifying with a certain community. For this sub-group analysis, participants who identified as youth aged 16–24 with a MH concern were compared to age-matched controls. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi squared tests were used to evaluate differences in sociodemographic and ED visit data between groups. Qualitative micronarratives were thematically analyzed to contextualize quantitative findings. A total of 81 youth with MH concerns and 108 youth controls were included in the analysis. Compared to controls, youth with MH concerns experienced greater: negative effects of their identity on ED experiences; disrespect in the ED; and negative feelings throughout their ED visit (p<0.001 for all). Themes identified in the qualitative analysis supported these findings including judgement and stigmatization, unmet care needs, lack of MH expertise and community connections, and negative impacts of the ED environment on MH experiences. This study adds to evidence demonstrating that youth with MH concerns have largely negative experiences with ED care in comparison to age-matched control group. Interventions to improve care could include improving MH expertise in the ED with existing or new staff and enhancing connections to community MH resources.
Analyzing information sharing behaviors during stance formation on COVID-19 vaccination among Japanese Twitter users
Authors: Cho Sho , Hisamitsu Shohei , Jin Hongshan , Toyoda Masashi , Yoshinaga Naoki
Published: December 2024

To prevent widespread epidemics such as influenza or measles, it is crucial to reach a broad acceptance of vaccinations while addressing vaccine hesitancy and refusal. To gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s sharp increase in COVID-19 vaccination coverage, we performed an analysis on the posts of Twitter users to investigate the formation of users’ stances toward COVID-19 vaccines and information-sharing actions through the formation. We constructed a dataset of all Japanese posts mentioning vaccines for five months since the beginning of the vaccination campaign in Japan and carried out a stance detection task for all the users who wrote the posts by training an original deep neural network. Investigating the users’ stance formations using this large dataset, it became clear that some neutral users became pro-vaccine, while almost no neutral users became anti-vaccine in Japan. Our examination of their information-sharing activities during a period prior to and subsequent to their stance formation clarified that users with certain types and specific types of websites were referred to. We hope that our results contribute to the increase in coverage of 2nd and further doses and following vaccinations in the future.
Development and application of decontamination methods for the re-use of laboratory grade plastic pipette tips
Authors: Lee Sang Hyuk , Kastor William , Fu Xiao , Soni Vikas , Keidar Michael , Donohue Marc , Wood Steve , Karunasena Enusha
Published: December 2024

During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a need for methods to decontaminate and reuse personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical plastics became a priority. In this investigation we aimed to develop a contamination evaluation protocol for laboratory pipette tips, after decontamination. Decontamination methods tested in this study included cleaning with a common laboratory detergent (2.5% Alconox® solution followed with steam decontamination), exposure of ozone vapor at 250 and 14400 PPM * minute, and exposure to cold atmospheric plasma (CAP). All tips (control and experimental groups) were introduced to the methods described, while tips exposed to DNA extracts of Aeromonas hydrophila (ATCC-23211) were assessed for experimental groups. Decontamination was determined by turnover ratio and log reduction in detectable genomic material on the contaminated products using real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay. Our results showed, cleaning tips with lab detergents along with steam decontamination removed genetic material, resulting in the highest log reduction, compared with ozone or CAP treatments. Detergent/washing methods showed the second highest turnover ratio (95.9%) and log reduction (5.943). However, the excessive residue (post- cleaning) on the plastic, within inner filters, and tip boxes suggested that washing with lab detergents was not favorable for reuse. Ozone vapor at 14400 PPM * minute showed the highest turnover ratio (98.4%) and log reduction (4.511). CAP exposure with tips inverted (the tip end exposed closer to the plasma flame) for 1 minute showed a turnover ratio of (68.3%) and log reduction (4.002). Relatively, lower turnover ratio and log reduction of CAP could be improved by optimization, such as increasing the exposure time. Future testing would provide fine-tuned conditions for CAP-specific decontamination of plasticware. In this study we were able to provide fundamental insight into a non-traditional decontamination method for single-use plasticware that could render these products reusable.
Loss of Mfn1 but not Mfn2 enhances adipogenesis
Authors: Mann Jake P. , Tábara Luis Carlos , Patel Satish , Pushpa Pushpa , Alvarez-Guaita Anna , Dong Liang , Haider Afreen , Lim Koini , Tandon Panna , Scurria Fabio , Minchin James E. N. , O’Rahilly S. Stephen , Fazakerley Daniel J. , Prudent Julien , Semple Robert K. , Savage David B.
Published: December 2024

Objective

A biallelic missense mutation in mitofusin 2 (MFN2) causes multiple symmetric lipomatosis and partial lipodystrophy, implicating disruption of mitochondrial fusion or interaction with other organelles in adipocyte differentiation, growth and/or survival. In this study, we aimed to document the impact of loss of mitofusin 1 (Mfn1) or 2 (Mfn2) on adipogenesis in cultured cells.

Methods

We characterised adipocyte differentiation of wildtype (WT), Mfn1-/- and Mfn2-/- mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) and 3T3-L1 preadipocytes in which Mfn1 or 2 levels were reduced using siRNA.

Results

Mfn1-/- MEFs displayed striking fragmentation of the mitochondrial network, with surprisingly enhanced propensity to differentiate into adipocytes, as assessed by lipid accumulation, expression of adipocyte markers (Plin1, Fabp4, Glut4, Adipoq), and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. RNA sequencing revealed a corresponding pro-adipogenic transcriptional profile including Pparg upregulation. Mfn2-/- MEFs also had a disrupted mitochondrial morphology, but in contrast to Mfn1-/- MEFs they showed reduced expression of adipocyte markers. Mfn1 and Mfn2 siRNA mediated knockdown studies in 3T3-L1 adipocytes generally replicated these findings.

Conclusions

Loss of Mfn1 but not Mfn2 in cultured pre-adipocyte models is pro-adipogenic. This suggests distinct, non-redundant roles for the two mitofusin orthologues in adipocyte differentiation.
Habitat suitability modeling and conservation status of Salvadora oleoides and Tamarix aphylla in tropical thorn forest
Authors: Hussain Majid , Akhtar Hassan , Saqib Zafeer , Khan Muhammad Tayyab , Afridi Zarak Khan , Afzal Hasnain , Habiba Ume , Khalil Sangam , Raza Ghulam , Rahman Hamid Ur , Shah Sher , Yousaf Muhammad Sohail , Alahmadi Tahani Awad
Published: December 2024

The habitat suitability of Salvadora oleoides and Tamarix aphylla can be one of the most significant steps towards conserving these tree species. Habitat loss presents a critical threat to the existence of S. oleoides and T. aphylla. Protecting their suitable habitats and implementing conservation approaches is crucial to address this challenge. By ensuring the preservation of their habitats and adopting effective conservation strategies, we can mitigate the threat of habitat loss and promote the survival of these species. The potential distribution of S. oleoides and T. aphylla was predicted using a MaxEnt model. This study also presents the conservation status of S. oleoides and T. aphylla in the tropical thorn forests of the Bahawalpur subdivision. Data were gathered from the field survey based on bioclimatic variables. Overall, 20 sample plots were taken, and the coordinates were recorded for each sample plot. MaxEnt software and the environmental variables were used to study each tree species separately (19 bioclimatic variables were used). The Jackknife test was conducted to find the total general tree cover and mean temperature. The MaxEnt model showed high accuracy for each tree species, with the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) training mean testing values for S. oleoides being 0.976 and T. aphylla 0.987. The study showed that both species were distributed irregularly in the tropical thorn forest of the Bahawalpur subdivision. The results highlight that it is essential to implement proven long-term management and conservation techniques to ensure the well-being and sustainability of forest trees in the Bahawalpur sub-division. In conclusion, concerted efforts to map, understand habitat suitability, and raise awareness of endangered species in the tropical thorn forest are crucial for effective conservation planning and resource allocation in the face of climate change.
Automatic brake Driver Assistance System based on deep learning and fuzzy logic
Authors: García-Escalante A. R. , Fuentes-Aguilar R. Q. , Palma-Zubia A. , Morales-Vargas E.
Published: December 2024

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) aim to automate transportation fully. A key part of this automation includes tasks such as traffic light detection and automatic braking. While indoor experiments are prevalent due to computational demands and safety concerns, there is a pressing need for research and development of new features to achieve complete automation, addressing real-world implementation challenges by testing them in outdoor environments. These systems seek to provide precise synchronization for decision-making processes and explore algorithms beyond emergency responses, enabling braking actions with short reaction times. Therefore, this work proposes a level 1 ADAS for automatic braking. The implementation uses an NVIDIA Jetson TX2 and a ZED stereo camera for traffic light detection, which, in addition to the depth map provided by the camera and a fuzzy inference system, make the decision to perform automatic braking based on the distance and current state of the traffic light. The contributions of this research work are the development and validation of a one-stage traffic light state detector using EfficientDet D0, a brake profile using fuzzy logic, and the validation with an on-road experiment in Mexico. The traffic light detection model obtained a mAP of 0.96 for distances less than 13 m and 0.89 for 15 m, with an average RMSE of 0.9 m and 0.05 m in the braking force applied, respectively. Integrated systems have a response time of 0.23 s, taking a step further in the state-of-the-art.
Improved dielectric performance of graphene oxide reinforced plasticized starch
Authors: Mahmud Eashika , Mollik Shafiqul I. , Islam Muhammad Rakibul
Published: December 2024

High dielectric constants with less dielectric loss composites is highly demandable for technological advancements across various fields, including energy storage, sensing, and telecommunications. Their significance lies in their ability to enhance the performance and efficiency of a wide range of devices and systems. In this work, the dielectric performance of graphene oxide (GO) reinforced plasticized starch (PS) nanocomposites (PS/GO) for different concentrations of GO nanofiller was studied. The surface morphology, and chemical and structural properties of the PS/GO nanocomposites were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The FESEM study showed a uniform dispersion of the GO nanofiller in the nanocomposites. The XRD analysis showed a reduction in d-space due to the incorporation of GO nanofiller in the nanocomposites. The FTIR data exhibits the formation of hydrogen bonds among PS and GO nanofillers, suggesting the presence of strong interaction between them. The dielectric properties of the nanocomposites were studied at room temperature in the frequency range 100 Hz‒1 MHz. The dielectric constant was found to improve due to the incorporation of GO. This composite nanomaterial also provides low dielectric loss at low frequency. Moreover, an increasing trend is observed for the AC conductivity of the composites. From the complex impedance study, the changes in various impedances with low to high-frequency ranges have been calculated and explained in the equivalent circuit diagram. The complex impedance spectra analysis shows the change in resistance and constant phase element (CPE): grain boundary resistance, R2 decreases from 4.3 KΩ to 1.9 KΩ, and CPE increases from 0.59 μF to 0.72 μF for PS/GO (0.5%) nanocomposite. This study will provide a potential route for the fabrication of biocompatible dielectric device fabrication.
Optimization of chromium (VI) reduction in aqueous solution using magnetic Fe3O4 sludge resulting from electrocoagulation process
Authors: Belibagli Pınar , Isik Zelal , Dizge Nadir , Balakrishnan Deepanraj , Afzal Abdul Rahman , Akram Muhammad
Published: December 2024

The reuse of electro-coagulated sludge as an adsorbent for Cr(VI) ion reduction was investigated in this study. Electro-coagulated sludge was obtained during the removal of citric acid wastewater by the electrocoagulation process. The following parameters were optimized for Cr(VI) reduction: pH (5–7), initial Cr(VI) concentration (10–50 mg/L), contact time (10–45 min), and adsorbent dosage (0.5–1.5 g/L). Cr(VI) reduction optimization reduction experimental sets were designed using response surface design. Cr(VI) reduction optimization results 97.0% removal efficiency and 15.1 mg/g adsorption capacity were obtained at pH 5.0, 1.5 g/L electro-coagulated Fe3O4 sludge, 10 mg/L initial Cr(VI) concentration and 45 min reaction time. According to the isotherm results, the experimental data are compatible with the Freundlich isotherm model, and since it is defined by the pseudo-second order model emphasizes that the driving forces of the Cr(VI) reduction process are rapid transfer of Cr(VI) to the adsorbent surface. The reusability of the adsorbent was investigated and Cr(VI) reduction was achieved at a high rate even in the 5th cycle. All these results clearly show that electro-coagulated Fe3O4 sludge is an effective, inexpensive adsorbent for Cr(VI) removal from wastewater.
miR-1247-3p regulation of CCND1 affects chemoresistance in colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang Dequan , Wang Jielian , Yao Fei , Xie Zhufu , Wu Jianze , Chen Huiguang , Wu Qingming
Published: December 2024

The effectiveness of chemotherapy involving 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin (DDP) for the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) is often limited due to the emergence of drug resistance. An increasing body of research highlights the crucial role of abnormally expressed microRNAs (miR/miRNAs) in fostering drug resistance in various types of cancer. The present study was the first to explore the potential roles and mechanisms of the small non-coding RNA miR-1247-3p in CRC, particularly its association with DDP resistance in CRC. The findings of the current study revealed a significant decrease in miR-1247-3p expression in CRC cells, especially those resistant to drugs. By contrast, there was a marked increase in the expression of cyclin D1 (CCND1), a known target gene of miR-1247-3p that is negatively regulated by this miRNA. By modulating CCND1, miR-1247-3p can effectively reduce drug resistance and promote apoptosis in CRC cells, suggesting that miR-1247-3p could potentially reduce chemotherapy resistance by targeting CCND1. These results highlight the pivotal role of miR-1247-3p in reducing chemotherapy resistance through the inhibition of CCND1, providing insight into a promising therapeutic strategy for overcoming CRC resistance.
Economic effects of livestock disease burden in Ethiopia: A computable general equilibrium analysis
Authors: Countryman Amanda M. , de Menezes Taís C. , Pendell Dustin L. , Rushton Jonathan , Marsh Thomas L.
Published: December 2024

The burden of animal disease is widespread globally and is especially severe for developing countries dependent on livestock production. Ethiopia has the largest livestock population in Africa and the second-largest human population on the continent. Ethiopia is one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa; however, much of the population still lives in extreme poverty, and most households depend on agriculture. Animal disease negatively affects domestic livestock production and limits growth potential across the domestic agricultural supply chain. This research investigates the economic effects of livestock disease burden in Ethiopia by employing a computable general equilibrium model in tandem with animal health loss estimates from a compartmental livestock population model. Two scenarios for disease burden are simulated to understand the effects of improved animal health on domestic production, prices, trade, gross domestic product (GDP), and economic welfare in Ethiopia. Results show that improved animal health may increase Ethiopian GDP by up to 3.6%, which improves national welfare by approximately $US 2.5 billion. This research illustrates the economic effects of improved livestock health, which is critical for Ethiopian households and the national economy.