bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological stress of general practitioners in the care of patients with palliative care needs: an exploratory study
Authors: Lopez Verena , van der Keylen Piet , Kühlein Thomas , Sebastião Maria
Published: August 2024

Background

In Germany, general practitioners play a pivotal role in palliative care provision. Caring for patients with palliative care needs can be a burden for general practitioners, highlighting the importance of self-care and mental health support. This study aimed to explore the role of palliative care in general practitioners’ daily work, the stressors they experience, their coping mechanisms, and the potential benefits of Advance Care Planning in this context.

Methods

An exploratory approach was employed, combining a short quantitative survey with qualitative interviews. The analysis was based on a structuring qualitative content analysis, following a deductive-inductive procedure and integrating the Stress-Strain Model and Lazarus’ Transactional Model of Stress and Coping. We recruited eleven general practitioners to take part in the study.

Results

General practitioners viewed palliative care as integral to their practice but faced challenges such as time constraints and perceived expertise gaps. Societal taboos often hindered conversations on the topic of death. Most general practitioners waited for their patients to initiate the topic. Some general practitioners viewed aspects of palliative care as potentially distressing. They used problem-focused (avoiding negative stressors, structuring their daily schedules) and emotion-focused (discussions with colleagues) coping strategies. Still, general practitioners indicated a desire for specific psychological support options. Advance Care Planning, though relatively unfamiliar, was acknowledged as valuable for end-of-life conversations.

Conclusions

Palliative care can be associated with negative psychological stress for general practitioners, often coming from external factors. Despite individual coping strategies in place, it is advisable to explore concepts for professional psychological relief.

Trial registration

Not registered.
Workplace support for physicians during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Did it affect burnout?
Authors: Melnikow Joy , Xing Guibo , Miller Marykate E. , Loureiro Sabrina , Padovani Andrew J. , Whitney Robin , Kravitz Richard L.
Published: August 2024

Background

A concern before 2020, physician burnout worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Little empirical data are available on pandemic workplace support interventions or their influence on burnout. We surveyed a national sample of frontline physicians on burnout and workplace support during the pandemic.

Methods

We surveyed a stratified random sample of 12,833 US physicians most likely to care for adult COVID-19 patients from the comprehensive AMA Physician Professional Data ™ file. The sample included 6722 primary care physicians (3331 family physicians, 3391 internists), 880 hospitalists, 1783 critical care physicians (894 critical care physicians, 889 pulmonary intensivists), 2548 emergency medicine physicians, and 900 infectious disease physicians. The emailed survey elicited physicians’ perceptions of organizational interventions to provide workplace support and/or to address burnout. Burnout was assessed with the Professional Fulfillment Index Burnout Composite scale (PFI-BC). Proportional specialty representation and response bias were addressed by survey weighting. Logistic regression assessed the association of physician characteristics and workplace interventions with burnout.

Results

After weighting, respondents were representative of the total sample. Overall physician burnout was 45.4%, significantly higher than in our previous survey. Open-ended responses mentioned that staffing shortages (physician, nursing, and other staff) combined with the increased volume, complexity, and acuity of patients during the pandemic increased job demands. The most frequent workplace support interventions were direct pandemic control measures (increased access to personal protective equipment, 70.0%); improved telehealth functionality (43.4%); and individual resiliency tools (yoga, meditation, 30.7%). Respondents placed highest priority on workplace interventions to increase financial support and increase nursing and clinician staffing. Factors significantly associated with lower odds of burnout were practicing critical care (compared with emergency medicine) OR 0.33 (95% CI 0.12 – 0.93), improved telehealth functionality OR 0.47 (95% CI 0.23 – 0.97) and being in practice for 11 years or longer OR 0.44 (95% CI 0.19–0.99).

Conclusions

Burnout across frontline specialties increased during the pandemic. Physician respondents focused on inadequate staffing in the context of caring for more and sicker patients, combined with the lack of administrative efforts to mitigate problems. Burnout mitigation requires system-level interventions beyond individual-focused stress reduction programs to improve staffing, increase compensation, and build effective teams.
Knock down of transforming growth factor beta improves expressions of co-stimulatory molecules, type I interferon-regulated genes, and pro-inflammatory cytokine in PRRSV-inoculated monocyte-derived macrophages
Authors: Fabros Dante , Charerntantanakul Wasin
Published: August 2024

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) induces a poor innate immune response following infection. This study evaluates the effects of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) up-regulated by PRRSV on gene expressions of co-stimulatory molecules, type I interferon (IFN), type I IFN-regulated genes (IRGs), pattern recognition receptors, and pro-inflammatory cytokines in PRRSV-inoculated monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs). Phosphorothioate-modified antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (AS ODNs) specific to various regions of porcine TGFβ1 mRNA were synthesized, and those specific to the AUG region efficiently knockdown TGFβ1 mRNA expression and protein translation. Transfection of TGFβAS ODNs in MDMs inoculated with either classical PRRSV-2 (cPRRSV-2) or highly pathogenic PRRSV-2 (HP-PRRSV-2) significantly reduced TGFβ1 mRNA expression and significantly increased mRNA expressions of CD80, CD86, IFNβ, IRGs (i.e. IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), IRF7, myxovirus resistance 1, osteopontin, and stimulator of IFN genes), Toll-like receptor 3, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Transfection of TGFβAS ODNs in MDMs inoculated with HP-PRRSV-2 also significantly increased mRNA expressions of IFNα, IFNγ, and 2’-5’-oligoadenylate synthetase 1. The quantity of PRRSV-2 RNA copy numbers was significantly reduced in MDMs transfected with TGFβAS ODNs as compared to untransfected MDMs. Recombinant porcine TGFβ1 (rTGFβ1) and recombinant porcine IFNα (rIFNα) sustained and reduced the yields of PRRSV-2 RNA copy numbers in PRRSV-2 inoculated MDMs, respectively. These findings demonstrate a strategy of PRRSV for innate immune suppression via an induction of TGFβ expression. These findings also suggest TGFβ as a potential parameter that future PRRSV vaccine and vaccine adjuvant candidates should take into consideration.
Subdural empyema—a rare complication of chronic otitis media: a case report
Authors: Fekadu Emnet Tekeste , Daniel Nahom , Mengistu Samuel Tekle , Fekadu Genet Tekeste
Published: August 2024

Background

Subdural empyema is an extremely rare and fatal intracranial complication of chronic otitis media. Due to its rarity and vague symptoms, it is often diagnosed late if not completely missed; specially in developing countries where the diagnostic modalities are hardly available or accessible. To the best knowledge of the authors, this is a preliminary reported case of subdural empyema as a complication of chronic otitis media in Eritrea. It aims to provide vital information on the clinical presentation, preferred diagnostic modalities, and the proper management of such cases.

Case report

An 8 years old female patient from the Rashaida ethnic group presented with fever, right ear purulent discharge, right post-auricular swelling, and altered mental status. Prior to her admission, she had history of recurrent purulent discharge from her right ear for almost 2 years, and had been diagnosed with chronic otitis media. Upon admission her GCS was 13/15 which later on deteriorated to be 3/15 on day 3. MRI was done and showed a right fronto-tempo-parietal subdural empyema with mass effect, shifting the midline to the left. She was immediately started on empirical broad-spectrum antibiotics. After the diagnosis was made, craniotomy was done, and 30 ml of pus was removed from the subdural space. Culture and sensitivity of the pus obtained intraoperatively was done but produced no yield. Hence, she was continued on the empirically started antibiotics. The patient’s condition was well improved by post-operative day 4.

Conclusion

It is important to have a high index of suspicion of intracranial complications in patients with history of chronic otitis media or other otologic complaints, who present with neurologic manifestations. Subdural empyema still being uncommon even among the intracranial complications of COM, it is often missed. Hence, timely diagnosis with MRI, immediate surgical evacuation of the empyema along with the prolonged administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics is highly recommended.
Cancer immunotherapy and its facilitation by nanomedicine
Authors: Sui Chao , Wu Heqing , Li Xinxin , Wang Yuhang , Wei Jiaqi , Yu Jianhua , Wu Xiaojin
Published: August 2024

Cancer immunotherapy has sparked a wave of cancer research, driven by recent successful proof-of-concept clinical trials. However, barriers are emerging during its rapid development, including broad adverse effects, a lack of reliable biomarkers, tumor relapses, and drug resistance. Integration of nanomedicine may ameliorate current cancer immunotherapy. Ultra-large surface-to-volume ratio, extremely small size, and easy modification surface of nanoparticles enable them to selectively detect cells and kill cancer cells in vivo. Exciting synergistic applications of the two approaches have emerged in treating various cancers at the intersection of cancer immunotherapy and cancer nanomedicine, indicating the potential that the combination of these two therapeutic modalities can lead to new paradigms in the treatment of cancer. This review discusses the status of current immunotherapy and explores the possible opportunities that the nanomedicine platform can make cancer immunotherapy more powerful and precise by synergizing the two approaches.
Simultaneous quantification of triple pore types in carbonate reservoirs using well logs and seismic data
Authors: Du Miao , Pan Haojie , Wei Chao , Li Hongbing , Cai Shengjuan , Huang Cheng , Gui Zhixian
Published: August 2024

Accurate characterization of carbonate pore types is of great significance for seismic reservoir characterization. However, the existing pore-type inversion methods cannot characterize the coexistence of three main pore types (vuggy pores, matrix pores, and cracks) for each modeling point because they apply a simple iterative procedure without using S-wave velocity. To overcome this problem, we develop a simultaneous triple pore-type inversion (TPTI) strategy to estimate the porosities of different pore types from the P- and S-wave velocities using a global optimization technique known as very fast simulated annealing. Considering the rock composition variation and pore geometry complexity, we first establish an easy-to-implement multipore effective medium model for carbonate reservoirs based on the Keys-Xu model and Gassmann’s equation. Then, the applicability of this model is verified by two sets of experimental acoustic measurements for synthetic and actual carbonate samples. A good comparison of model predictions with laboratory data indicates that our model can effectively capture the elastic responses of carbonate rocks with different pore shapes, which provides a theoretical basis for quantifying multiple pore types. Based on the developed model, we further develop a TPTI method. We apply it to describe pore-type distribution from well logs and seismic data in a heterogeneous carbonate reservoir from the Sichuan Basin in southwest China. Real applications suggest that our method significantly improves the accuracy of porosity estimates for different pore types, outperforming the traditional dual pore-type inversion method. This advancement holds considerable promise for the seismic characterization of pore types in ultradeep carbonate reservoirs.
Beyond Michel Foucault, Beyond Peter Brown: What Did Early Christianity Destroy?
Authors: Goldhill Simon
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This article argues that the focus on sexuality and the body in early Christianity, prompted by the seminal work of Peter Brown and Michel Foucault, has obscured a truly major and profound shift brought about by Christian thinking in late antiquity. This concerns the very construction and evaluation of the notion of nature and the natural world. It is well known that Greek and Roman thinking conceptualized man's place in the order of things through a tripartite systematization of man, beast, and god, and that consequently through rituals such as sacrifice, epics such as the Odyssey , or normative texts of husbandry such as agricultural manuals, self-understanding of humanity is triangulated through a care for nature and a recognition of the divine. Similar structures are evident in early Jewish writing too. But in early Christianity, there is a turn away from care for nature and seeing man's place as integrally embedded in an agricultural world. In contrast to the book of Jonah or the Talmud—where care for animals is expressly a source of divinely given regulation—St Paul can ask: "Surely God does not care for oxen?" There is a corollary absence of Christian agricultural manuals, and repeatedly Christian writing privileges the anchorite, the ascetic, the sage who, like the lily of the fields, do not work the land. Animals are present in parables and metaphors—but are absent from Christian care or regulation. This article considers how the normative discourses of nature are redrafted within Christianity and its subsequent impact on the ideas of ecology—and on the possibilities of eco-criticism for classics. Καὶ φύσις ἄψ ἐγέλασε, "And nature laughed again." Nonnus
The Socioeconomics of Fabrication: Textuality, Authenticity, and Social Status in the Roman Mediterranean
Authors: Coogan Jeremiah , Moss Candida R. , Howley Joseph A.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This article analyses the figure of the "fabricator" within the complex ancient discourses that produce and limit authorial status. We map Roman discourses of textual fabrication in three distinct yet intersecting deployments: the fabrication of documents, the fabrication of texts, and the fabrication of meaning. A wide range of sources from the high Roman empire illuminate how elites used this discourse of fabrication to characterize forms of textual production, invention, and interpretation as illicit. The discourse of fabrication, with its contrasts between elite and banausic skills and spaces, served to manufacture and maintain differences between elite intellectuals and the low-status workers who supported them. Accusations of fabrication were a discursive practice used to dismiss individuals, deride arguments, and (re)produce cultural and social boundaries in the Roman Mediterranean.
Helen and Trauma Narrative in the Iliad
Authors: Murphy-Racette Caroline
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This paper uses research in trauma studies to offer a new analysis of Helen in the Iliad . Psychological studies in posttraumatic stress disorder, continuous traumatic stress, and trauma following a sexual assault point to self-blame and suicidal ideation as elements of trauma. These components feature in the three Iliadic speeches where Helen blames herself for the Trojan War and fantasizes about having died before she came to Troy. The interpretation of Helen as traumatized builds on past examinations of her character and offers an alternative to scholarship that views her as sexually motivated, manipulative, and responsible for the Trojan War.
The Couple and the Queer in Sappho's Tithonus Poem (Frag. 58)
Authors: He Pei
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This paper offers a new reading of the Tithonus/Dawn couple in Sappho's Tithonus poem. It identifies three elements lurking beside the Tithonus/Dawn couple: eros, chronos , and gêras . It suggests that eros, chronos , and gêras haunt this heterosexual couple, altering the power dynamics between them, just like the third element looming beside the couple in the queer couple theory of Lee Edelman (2004) and Brilmyer et al. (2019). In Sappho's representation of Tithonus and Dawn, these three elements entangle themselves with the couple at different stages through integration, destabilization, and conjunction, thus establishing alternative models to the heterosexual couple norm.
Earthly Sacrifice Becomes Heavenly Worship: Our Share in the Inheritance of the Lamb
Authors: Briody Joseph
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: Taking a lead from Pope Francis’s Desiderio Desideravi , this article reflects on Christ the Eucharistic Lamb. Beginning with observations on Lamb imagery in Sacred Scripture and the Roman Rite, the paper then describes how Desiderio Desideravi emphasizes the newness brought by the Paschal Lamb. Inspired by the prominence given in the apostolic letter to Romano Guardini’s work, the transforming power of the Eucharistic sacrifice is highlighted. Other authors are drawn into the discussion: Cécile Bruyère, Blessed Columba Marmion, Matthias Scheeben, and Benedict XVI. A liturgical spirituality, an ascesis of surrender in the Lamb, is sketched, responding to the challenge of how we are “to live completely the liturgical action” ( Desiderio Desideravi , no. 27).
Psychiatric Rehabilitation Curriculum Development from a Consumer Perspective
Authors: Olney Marjorie F.
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: This article is a retrospective of the author’s work in the area of program development. In it, she describes her introduction to psychiatric rehabilitation, why she changed her research and teaching foci, and how she incrementally implemented the principles and practices of psychiatric rehabilitation within an existing MS in Rehabilitation Counseling Program. In addition to sharing the San Diego State University psychiatric rehabilitation curriculum, the author explains how her lived experience as a person with bipolar disorder influenced the delivery of the curriculum and, ultimately, student outcomes.
Reciprocal Peer Support Wellness (RPS-W): A Model of Virtual Peer Support
Authors: Swarbrick Margaret , Spagnolo Amy , Castelano Cherie , Vogel Marie , Valovcin Dawn Dreyer , Lunquist Mary Catherine
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: This brief report details how a Reciprocal Peer Support Wellness (RPS-W) virtual training program prepared Peer Support Specialists (PSS) to practice strategies personally and engage callers from high-risk groups to address their needs and challenges by focusing on overall wellness. This pilot virtual training program focused on RPS techniques and wellness self-care strategies delivered during regularly scheduled 30-minute shift briefs two times per week for four weeks to equip PSS to address the increasing demands for supports compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic and its negative consequences on overall wellness. Twenty PSS and two supervisors completed the training. Data indicated (1) call volume increased, (2) PSS post-session feedback aligned with the objectives of the wellness self-care and RPS-W techniques, and (3) PSS implemented RPS-W techniques and wellness activities for themselves and callers with continued support by supervisors one year post training. The role of the supervisors in supporting PSS to apply knowledge and skills, and to embed continuous wellness activities into existing workflows, was essential. This article describes some unique aspects of the training, impacts, and feedback gathered one year post training.
Habit-Formation as a Mechanism of Action in Cognitive Adaptation Training
Authors: Velligan Dawn I. , Li Feiyu , Brown Matthew
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: Cognitive Adaptation Training (CAT) is an effective psychosocial treatment for serious behavioral health conditions that uses environmental supports such as signs and checklists to cue and sequence adaptive behavior in the home environment and improve functional outcomes. CAT has been found to improve targeted behaviors, role functioning, and community tenure in multiple randomized trials. While CAT has been shown to improve cognition after 12 months, initial improvements in target behaviors and functional outcomes are not attributable to improved cognition. This article describes a putative mechanism of action for CAT based on dual process theory. Improvement in CAT treatment is proposed to result from continued paring of cues (context situations) with behavior that leads to automatic behaviors and habit formation that bypasses cognitive and motivational problems typically associated with serious behavioral health conditions. Data that examine habit formation using automatic processes is presented to support the proposed mechanism of action.
Impacts of COVID-19 on the NYC Peer Support Workforce: A Brief Report
Authors: Spagnolo Amy , Whitmore Carlton , Edwards Jonathan P , Paggi Michelle , Kamat Varsha
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: During the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting stay-at-home orders, peer support specialists (PSS) were required to deliver telehealth peer support and learn new skills to provide support remotely. A 39-item, online survey was disseminated to PSS in NYC to understand the unique strengths, challenges, and resource needs of the PSS workforce in NYC during the COVID-19 pandemic. Of the 275 usable responses to the survey, half reported the inability to meet in-person was the biggest barrier to delivering services during the pandemic, and 64% said the phone was the most successful method of contacting service recipients. Nearly half of all respondents indicated that the most critical new skill they learned was using technology to provide support (48%), and almost half of all respondents stated that they were not very well or only somewhat well supported in learning how to use technology. Most respondents indicated the top three supports provided were social/emotional support, sharing their lived experience, and advocating for others during the pandemic. Results from this survey can inform workforce development and training initiatives and influence the resources, policies, and procedures needed to support PSS in delivering telehealth services.
Hero’s Journey: A New Narrative for People with Long-Term Mental Health Challenges
Authors: Burton Joann Dorio , Becker Kristin , Williams Clive , Townsend Michael , Nichols Breanna , Yanos Philip
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: In this article we introduce a framework, based on the Hero’s Journey® narrative (first described by Joseph Campbell in the Hero with a Thousand Faces ), and its application to the experience of persons with long-term mental health challenges, their recovery process and path toward well-being. We outline the stages of the Hero’s Journey and their application as a therapeutic framework for people living with long-term mental health challenges, highlighting the transformational power of this narrative for those individuals. Further, we present preliminary findings of the implementation of the Hero’s Journey® Path to Well-Being curriculum (Dorio Burton & Becker, 2015), inspired by Campbell’s work. Findings are encouraging in that they suggest that an intervention based on the Hero’s Journey shows promise for providing people with long-term mental health challenges an alternative self-narrative, building hope and empowerment as they identify and utilize their “Inner Hero” in daily life.
In Search of an Ethics for Plants: A Brief Exploration of the Early Writings of Jainism and Buddhism
Authors: Sahni Pragati
Published: August 2024

This paper’s objective is three-fold: to consider how the early writings of Jainism and Buddhism recognize plants and the status they accord to them; to identify and analyze in these writings ethical injunctions related to plants; and finally, to draw attention to complexities such as those related to decision-making or value-ascription that may be encountered in the process of framing an ethics for plants. Sentience, value and other related ideas have been methodically assessed. It is argued that even though soteriological goals remain primary and that the path is fraught with challenges, moral principles that include plants can be defended.
The Meaning of “Xingfen 性分” in Guo Xiang’s Thought
Authors: Wong Mei Yan
Published: August 2024

This paper examines the controversies surrounding Guo Xiang’s concept of “xingfen 性分” in his Commentary on the Zhuangzi . Critics argue that Guo Xiang views “xing” as innate nature, which leads to criticism of his political philosophy, claiming that he advocates rigid social positions without room for mobility. In contrast, this paper argues that Guo Xiang’s concept of “xingfen” is not fixed but subject to change. He suggests that understanding one’s “xing” comes through observation and trial-and-error. The paper contends that Guo Xiang’s political philosophy encourages individuals, regardless of social status, to discover their abilities through their existential state and emotional responses. By engaging in learning and practice, individuals can unleash their potential in a manageable way. Moreover, Guo Xiang’s philosophy reminds individuals not to undertake tasks beyond their capacity solely for reputation, as it may harm their well-being and lead to societal disorder.
ABORDAGEM DA ASTRONOMIA EM LIVROS DIDÁTICOS DE FÍSICA PARA O ENSINO MÉDIO
Authors: HANSEN TAÍS REGINA , BAGOLIN ZAMBON LUCIANA
Published: August 2024

A Astronomia é apontada como uma importante colaboradora da Educação em Ciências: além de possibilitar a interdisciplinaridade e contemplar a abordagem da História e Filosofia da Ciência (HFC) e Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade (CTS), ela possui um papel motivador dificilmente encontrado em outras esferas científicas. Embora reconhecida por suas contribuições na formação de cidadãos críticos e responsáveis e mesmo estando presente nos documentos norteadores da Educação Básica, a área vem perdendo seu espaço em sala de aula. Segundo diversos estudos, essa ausência de assuntos astronômicos nos currículos da Educação Básica, possui decorrência, dentre outros fatores, da falta de formação apropriada dos docentes para a Astronomia e problemáticas relacionadas aos Livros Didáticos. Neste sentido, buscamos verificar, por meio da presente pesquisa, de que forma assuntos astronômicos vêm sendo abordados em uma coleção de Livros Didáticos da disciplina de Física. De modo geral concluímos que a coleção trata da Astronomia, contudo de forma bastante vaga e cometendo, em certos casos, erros conceituais.
TÓPICOS DE ASTRONOMIA NOS CURRÍCULOS DE CURSOS DE LICENCIATURA EM CIÊNCIAS BIOLÓGICAS
Authors: Alves Nunes João Antonio , Barbosa Ribeiro Laís , Simões da Silva Delano Moody
Published: August 2024

Os conteúdos de Astronomia são ministrados no Ensino Fundamental Anos Finais na disciplina de Ciências, por profissionais formados em Licenciaturas Científicas, como Ciências Biológicas. Nesse contexto, a formação inicial desses docentes é questionada, mas investigações sobre o currículo desses cursos para o ensino de Astronomia são escassas. Com isso, o objetivo desse trabalho foi analisar os currículos dos cursos de Licenciatura em Ciências Biológicas das Universidades Federais do Brasil em relação aos conteúdos de Astronomia. Para isso, foi realizado um estudo exploratório que utiliza como método a pesquisa documental, através da busca de palavras-chave relacionadas a Astronomia, nos Projetos Pedagógicos dos Cursos. As disciplinas e conteúdos de Astronomia encontrados foram classificados conforme a Análise de Conteúdo de Bardin. Foram analisadas 55 instituições do total de 61 Universidades Federais Brasileiras que possuem curso de Licenciatura em Ciências Biológicas. Dessas, apenas 18 possuem conteúdos de Astronomia no currículo. Ao todo, foram encontradas 23 disciplinas, sendo que apenas quatro possuem a ementa composta exclusivamente por conteúdos de Astronomia. Por fim, o presente estudo corrobora a hipótese de que cursos de Biologia negligenciam os assuntos astronômicos e colabora com as discussões acerca da formação inicial de professores de Ciências para o ensino de Astronomia.
PROPOSTA DE ATIVIDADE PRÁTICA PARA O ENSINO DE ASTRONOMIA:
Authors: Costa Caetano Thiago , Cardoso Moreira Camila
Published: August 2024

As contribuições que a Astronomia pode oferecer para o Ensino de Ciências têm sido apontadas na literatura há tempos. Por se tratar de uma área altamente interdisciplinar e fazer parte do cotidiano, a Astronomia tem potencial para desempenhar um papel integrador do conhecimento. Além disso contribui para aproximar os estudantes de procedimentos investigativos e de práticas observacionais do céu. Nesse contexto, este trabalho descreve a construção de um sextante com desenho altazimutal, produzido com auxílio de uma impressora 3D, cuja concepção foi motivada por uma atividade prática realizada com estudantes de licenciatura de uma universidade pública brasileira durante uma disciplina introdutória de Astronomia – todos os arquivos necessários para a reprodução do instrumento estão disponíveis gratuitamente para download. A atividade consiste na determinação da latitude local e a construção teórica relativa à análise do problema é apresentada em detalhes. Uma abordagem alternativa, adequada para a Educação Básica, é apresentada fazendo uma relação com a BNCC. Percebe-se que os procedimentos dessa abordagem apresentam consonância com os objetivos preconizados pelas diretrizes curriculares, o que evidencia o seu potencial didático. Um quadro-sumário contendo as fases, subfases e sugestões de tópicos que podem ser tratados foi construído a partir da análise da atividade.
DETRITOS ESPACIAIS E A SUSTENTABILIDADE ORBITAL TERRESTRE:
Authors: Santos Corbacho Valeria , Dos Santos Carvalho Jean Paulo
Published: August 2024

A utilização e o acesso ao nosso ambiente espacial representam um verdadeiro avanço para a humanidade. Grande parte da vida contemporânea é dependente do aparato tecnológico enviado e estabelecido em órbita do planeta Terra, que beneficia muitas áreas de nossas atividades, nos fornece vários serviços e dinamiza a economia, além de possibilitar a aquisição de conhecimentos para a evolução da ciência e da exploração espacial. Porém, esse enorme potencial, gerado no espaço orbital, pode estar ameaçado de destruição pelo crescente número dos detritos espaciais (lixo espacial). Nessa perspectiva, em analisar a fragilidade e possíveis ameaças a este ambiente espacial, é que foi estabelecida a interdisciplinaridade e a inserção da Astronomia na sala de aula. A Astronomia possui um potencial substancial para se associar as disciplinas do currículo básico escolar brasileiro, auxiliando com o desenvolvimento de conceitos e do pensamento científico, e favorecendo várias contribuições para o ensino das Ciências Humanas, em particular, a Geografia. A proposta metodológica adotada para o desenvolvimento deste estudo nos anos finais do ensino fundamental foi pautada em oficinas temáticas, que foram realizadas com o engajamento dos alunos, na perspectiva de um aprendizado significativo e que desenvolva nos discentes o interesse e a busca pelo conhecimento científico.
One foot in, one foot out: an Accountability Analysis of the United Kingdom’s and Switzerland’s Regulatory Frameworks in the UNCAC Regime.
Authors: Gless Jael Lena
Published: August 2024

This comparative analysis of the UK and Switzerland's regulatory frameworks on asset return showcases how two former safe havens for corrupt funds pioneer a novel grid of accountability in discretionary asset returns. This step of the UK and Switzerland is crucial as it fills the gap left by the UN Convention against Corruption, which introduces asset return obligations without guiding the mechanisms and procedures for the process. The comparison highlights how both states have tailored their regulatory framework to the domestic peculiarities of their legal system, serving as a basis for others to follow suit in this uncharted territory. Besides the commitment to accountability, both regulatory frameworks also showcase the importance both states place on protecting their leeway by enshrining the policy to make case-by-case return decisions. Nevertheless, creating standards and boundaries to inform their case-by-case decision-making, enhancing transparency and consistency in the process, is a step in the right direction.
The Recovery of Historical Buildings in Post-war Aleppo
Authors: Aboasfour Yara , Nunes Lígia
Published: August 2024

Throughout history, wars and armed conflicts have severely impacted cultural heritage, erased collective memories, and left entire populations seemingly non-existent. However, recognizing the significance of cultural heritage is the primary impetus for its subsequent reconstruction. Since the Syrian war outbreak in 2011, Aleppo, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited urban centers, has suffered significant damage to its historic sites such as shrines, khans, and other architectural treasures due to bombings and clashes. In 2017, a study by the Directorate of Antiquities and Museums in Aleppo revealed that over 70% of the city’s historic center was destroyed. As a result, the cultural heritage of Aleppo and its social and symbolic values have been threatened. This represents a huge loss not only to Syria but also to the international community. This paper explores the significant role that collective memories play in shaping a city’s identity in the aftermath of war. The research aims to analyze the best approach for intervention during the reconstruction phase, whether it be preservation, restoration, enhancement, or eventual reconstruction by reviewing some international experiences. Furthermore, it explains the current situation of the old city of Aleppo and presents some cultural buildings that have been severely damaged or destroyed during the conflict. The study will compare the essential values of each case study and finally conclude with suggestions about the suitable intervention of different case studies that represent the values mentioned before.
Assessment of Radioactivity in Building Materials
Authors: Jafir Adeeb O. , Hussein Mohammed I. , Nadir Idrees A. , Sabr Barzan N. , Hassan Ali H.
Published: August 2024

This research investigates the radioactivity levels of various rock types used in construction within the Kurdistan region and assesses their potential impact on human health, the measurements were performed using an HPGe gamma-ray spectrometer. The measured activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K radionuclides varied from ND (Chromitite) to 78.68 ± 4.54 Bq/kg (Marly Limestone), ND (Chromitite) to 109.52 ± 10.23 Bq/kg (Mudstone), and ND (Chromitite) to 2973.6 ± 152.1 Bq/kg (Claystone), respectively. The obtained Raeq values for all rock samples are well below the UNSCEAR, 2008 recommended value of 370 Bq/kg. 71.43% of DR, 66.66% of Eout, 71.43% of Ein, 100% of Hinand Hout, 71.43% of ELCRout, 71.43% of ELCRin, and 100% of activity utilization index of the rock samples are well below the recommended values declared by UNSCEAR, 2008. The radioactivity level of rock types that are prepared as building materials should be assessed by the producers and considered by the users to reduce the overall cancer risk. The outcomes of the RESRAD-BUILD computer code indicate that the maximum external and inhalation doses were calculated to be 19.7 and 0.105 μSv for R7 and R1 samples, respectively, over a period of 70 years.
Development of a closed-type shot model from composite materials at the South Ural State University.
Authors: Semashko M. Yu ,   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation, Kuvshinova N. L. , Dorokhova A. A ,   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation,   Joint Stock Company “Signal”, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation
Published: August 2024

The task of improving standard shots in terms of stealth, noiselessness and increased power is relevant, since it allows, on the one hand, to increase the combat capabilities of crews on the battlefield, and on the other, to create mock-ups of shots when training students in the specialty 05.17.01 “Ammunition and fuses”, allows you to instill skills and competencies in the development and production of modern weapons and ammunition. The Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education “South Ural State University (National Research University)”, based on accumulated scientific and practical experience, offers for consideration a design model of a closed-type silent shot made of composite materials, the concept of which was developed on the basis of a RU patent 2741982 C1. As part of the educational process in the specialty 17.05.01 “Ammunition and fuses”, a set of design and technological documentation was developed, materials and technological equipment for its production were selected. The design of the model consists of polymer composite elements: head and tail parts. The warhead contains inconspicuous ceramic ready-made submunitions. In the tail section there is a replaceable powder propellant charge. A review of currently used foreign radar stations was carried out. The ballistic and aerodynamic parameters of the developed shot model and the fragmentation efficiency were assessed. The results of modeling the flow of air around and the dispersion of fragments are presented. This sample is an illustration of the scientific and methodological approach to creating designs and technologies for promising samples of weapons and ammunition for the industry of conventional weapons, ammunition and special chemicals of the Russian Federation
Parameter determination method for twist drill point thinning using “KOMPAS 3D”
Authors: Shchurova E. I. ,   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation
Published: August 2024

Standard twist drills have significant design flaw: chisel edge rake angles have large negative values. Chisel shortening with abrasive tool is commonly used to minimize this disadvantage. The choice of such a tool, tool parameters and parameters of its location relative to the drill affect point thinning measure and rake angles of the thinned cutting edge. Difficulties of abrasive tool selection are related to the presence of drill helical flutes and their intersection with the major flanks. The paper presents a method for determining rational parameters of point thinning based on classical solid modeling using “KOMPAS 3D” software. The method uses the following parameters: abrasive wheel diameter, wheel profile radius, inter-axial distance, distance between the wheel axis and the drill cutting part, angle of crossing of their axes and angle of the wheel base end rotation relative to the base axial plane of the drill. The maximum value of the drill side rake in the considered drill part is taken as the selection criterion. The technique is based on developing a parametric model of standard drills, with automatic model updating according to drill dimensions specified in the standards. The chip flute is modeled using helical movement of the standard milling cutter surface. The technique is developed for industrial plants specialists `who are involved in further tool development for specific production conditions.
Increasing the efficiency of an industrial tractor-bulldozer by improving the control algorithm of the motor-transmission unit. Results of mathematical modeling and field tests
Authors: Kondakov S. V. ,   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation, Lomakin G. V. , Pavlovskaya O. O. , Tanin-Shakhov A. A. , Vansovich E. I. , Ishbulatov A. R. , Zhukov V. D. , Gorely A. E. , Ivanov S. V. , Chebotarev F. V. ,   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation,   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, Russian Federation,   DST-URAL plant, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation,   DST-URAL plant, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation,   DST-URAL plant, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation,   DST-URAL plant, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation,   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation,   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation,   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk Russian Federation
Published: August 2024

The introduction into the design of industrial tractors of continuously variable externally adjustable hydrostatic and electric continuously variable transmissions, as well as internal combustion engines with controlled fuel supply, opens up broad prospects for optimizing the operation of bulldozers and other technological machines based on industrial tractors. Optimization, first of all, in terms of fuel consumption. The materials presented in the article include mathematical modeling of a tractor in the bulldozing technological cycle, formulation of the problem of optimal joint control of the engine and transmission, development of the control algorithm, its implementation in the controller, test conditions and methodology, test results carried out at the plant test site “DST-URAL” in Kalachevo and analysis of the results obtained. As a result, the work carried out by the team of authors recorded a positive effect from the implementation of the developed automatic system, which consisted not only in the expected significant fuel savings, but also in increasing the service life of the internal combustion engine and hydrostatic transmission pumps, and increasing the productivity of the bulldozer, reducing the influence of the human factor (operator qualifications) on tractor performance, increasing operator comfort, reducing cases of activation of the engine overload protection system. Simulation modeling was carried out in the VISSIM programming environment, the code for the controller was created in CoDeSys, testing of the automatic system was implemented on a serial bulldozer tractor produced by the DST-URAL plant D14 with a traction class of 14 tons in August 2023. A patent of the Russian Federation was received for the invention No. 2783552 “Method and device for controlling the motor-transmission unit of an industrial tractor with a continuously variable transmission”. The invention was introduced at the DST-URAL plant.
A review on the ethnopharmacological importance and biochemical composition of medicinal plants within the Zingiberaceae family
Authors: Sumi Mousumi Jahan , Zaman Samia Binta , Imran Shahin , Sarker Prosenjit , Rhaman Mohammad Saidur
Published: August 2024

The Zingiberaceae family, known for its diverse range of plant species, plays a crucial role in traditional medicine, culinary arts, and aesthetics across both developing and developed countries. However, the limited documentation of its medicinal uses presents a significant challenge. This review summarises the traditional therapeutic uses and physicochemical makeup of ten Zingiberaceae species. The study emphasizes the presence of bioactive chemicals, such as flavonoids and phenolics, in these plants. These compounds offer significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial advantages. Extensive literature searches were conducted using major academic databases to ensure the inclusion of the most relevant and up-to-date studies in the field. The review primarily concentrates on the extensively utilized rhizomes, while also examining the less-explored components of the plants, including leaves, stems, flowers, seeds, and fruits, which may possess significant value. Emphasis is placed on the antioxidant properties of the leaves and rhizomes, with a notable gap in research regarding the flowers and seeds. By examining their radical scavenging abilities, the review underscores the significance of these species in traditional medicine and their promising applications in modern healthcare and animal feeds. This exploration not only documents the traditional medicinal uses of these plants but also identifies gaps in current research, advocating for further investigation into the under-researched parts of the Zingiberaceae family. The findings suggest that expanding research on the antioxidant properties and traditional uses of flowers and seeds could reveal new potentials for these species in promoting human and animal health.
Boundary determination for hybrid imaging from a single measurement
Authors: Brander Tommi , Ringholm Torbjørn
Published: August 2024

We recover the conductivity σ at the boundary of a domain from a combination of Dirichlet and Neumann boundary data and generalized power/current density data at the boundary, from a single quite arbitrary set of data, in AET or CDII.
The argument is elementary, algebraic and local.
More generally, we consider the variable exponent

p
⁢

(
⋅
)

{p(\,\cdot\,)}

-Laplacian as a forward model with the interior density data

σ
⁢

|

∇
⁡
u

|

q

{\sigma|\nabla u|^{q}}

, and find out that single measurement specifies the boundary conductivity when

p
-
q

≥
1

{p-q\geq 1}

, and otherwise the measurement specifies two alternatives.
We present heuristics for selecting between these alternatives.
Both p and q may depend on the spatial variable x, but they are assumed to be a priori known.
We illustrate the practical situations with numerical examples with the code available.
The inverse problem of heat conduction in the case of non-uniqueness: A functional identification approach
Authors: Borukhov Valentin Terentievich , Zayats Galina M.
Published: August 2024

A problem of identification of the set of a thermal-conductivity coefficients for the nonlinear heat equation in the case of non-uniqueness is considered. Classes of inverse heat conduction problems (IHCP) with a non-unique solution are defined. Explicit descriptions of sets of thermal-conductivity coefficients for these classes are obtained. For solving the identification problem the functional identification approach is used. Unlike traditional methods, the proposed algorithm does not utilize approximations of the coefficient with a finite system of basis functions. The results of computational experiments are presented. It is shown that the functional identification approach makes it possible to numerically identify the non-uniqueness of the solution of the inverse problem of heat conduction.
A modified iteratively regularized Landweber iteration method: Hölder stability and convergence rates
Authors: Mittal Gaurav , Giri Ankik Kumar
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we formulate the modified iteratively regularized Landweber iteration method in Banach spaces to solve the inverse problems for which the forward operator may be smooth or non-smooth. We study the convergence analysis of the modified method for both the perturbed as well as unperturbed data by utilizing the Hölder stability estimates. In the presence of perturbed data, we terminate the method via a discrepancy principle and show that it is in fact a convergence regularization method that terminates within a few iterations. In the presence of unperturbed data, we show that the iterates converge to the exact solution. Additionally, we deduce the convergence rates in the presence of perturbed as well as unperturbed data. Finally, we discuss two inverse problems on which the method is applicable.