bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of single nucleotide polymorphisms of IL-1A -889C>T (rs1800587), TNF-A -238G>A (rs361525), and VDR TaqI (rs731236) on susceptibility to herniated nucleus pulposus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Azharuddin Azharuddin , Ilmawan Muhammad , Fajar Jonny Karunia , Fahriani Marhami , Mamada Sukamto S. , Maliga Helnida Anggun , Nainu Firzan , Dhama Kuldeep , Harapan Harapan , Magetsari Rahadyan
Published: August 2021

Background: The pathogenesis of herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) is complex and may involve the wide variety of gene polymorphism. However, the reports from the existing studies are inconclusive. The objective of this study was to determine the role of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in interleukin 1 alpha (IL-1A), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-A), and vitamin D receptor (VDR) genes on the susceptibility to herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP).

Methods: Four databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science) were searched as of April 1 st, 2021. Authors, publication year, targeted genes, genotype and allele frequency in each case and control groups were collected. Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to evaluate the publication quality. The pooled estimates of association of IL-1A -889C>T (rs1800587), TNF-A -238G>A (rs361525), and VDR TaqI (rs731236) and susceptibility to HNP were assessed using Z test.

Results: We screened 3,067 unique studies for eligibility and three, two and nine case-control studies on IL-1A -889C>T, TNF-A -238G>A, and VDR TaqI were included, respectively, in our meta-analysis. The studies consisting 369 HNP cases and 433 controls for IL-1A -889C>T, 252 cases and 259 controls for TNF-A -238G>A and 1130 cases and 2096 controls for VDR TaqI. Our pooled estimates indicated that there was no significant association of those SNPs with the susceptibility to HNP in any genotype, dominant model, recessive model, or allele comparations.

Conclusion: Although individual studies suggested the important role of gene expression dysregulation associated with SNPs in IL-1A, TNF-A, and VDR, our data indicated that IL-1A -889C>T, TNF-A -238G>A, and VDR TaqI had weak association with HNP susceptibility in both genotypes and allele distributions. However, since heterogeneity was identified among studies included in this meta-analysis, further meta-analysis with a larger population and subgroup analysis on specific population are warranted to support this finding.
Glucose induced hepatic lipase expression and ApoB100/ApoAI ratio changes in cultured HepG2 cells in vitro
Authors: Hu Minshan
Published: August 2021

Backgroundː Hepatic lipase (HL) plays a very important role in lipoprotein catabolism. The aim of this study was to measure both HL activity and ApoB100/ApoAI ratio changes in cell secretions by incubating HepG2 cells with various amounts of glucose.

Methodsː HepG2 cells were cultured in low-, normal- or high-glucose Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) (1, 4.5 and 10g/L, respectively). HL activities were determined using the Hepatic Lipase Detection Kit (cat. no. A067) from Nanjing Jiancheng Bioengineering Institute (Nanjing, China). Levels of ApoAI and ApoB100 were measured with commercial sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits (cat#: H0123 and H0124) from ShangHai MEIXUAN Biological Science and Technology Ltd (Shanghai, China). Experiments were repeated six times for each assay.

Resultsː Pearson’s correlation coefficient results showed that ApoB100 and ApoB100/ApoAI ratio have positive and significant correlations with HL activity, and ApoAI has a negative and significant correlation with HL activity.

Conclusionsː Glucose may increase or decrease ApoB100/ApoAI ratio through upregulation or downregulation of hepatic lipase activity, which suggests a new regulatory pathway in lipoprotein catabolism. This finding may lead to novel therapeutic ways for diagnosis and treatment for coronary artery disease.
Blood meal analysis of tsetse flies (Glossina pallidipes: Glossinidae) reveals higher host fidelity on wild compared with domestic hosts
Authors: Channumsin Manun , Ciosi Marc , Masiga Dan , Auty Harriet , Turner C. Michael , Kilbride Elizabeth , Mable Barbara K.
Published: August 2021

Background: Changes in climate and land use can alter risk of transmission of parasites between domestic hosts and wildlife, particularly when mediated by vectors that can travel between populations. Here we focused on tsetse flies (genus Glossina), the cyclical vectors for both Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) and Animal African Trypanosomiasis (AAT). The aims of this study were to investigate three issues related to G. palldipes from Kenya: 1) the diversity of vertebrate hosts that flies fed on; 2) whether host feeding patterns varied in relation to type of hosts, tsetse feeding behaviour, site or tsetse age and sex; and 3) if there was a relationship between trypanosome detection and host feeding behaviours or host types.

Methods: Sources of blood meals of Glossina pallidipes were identified by sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and analyzed in relationship with previously determined trypanosome detection in the same flies.

Results: In an area dominated by wildlife but with seasonal presence of livestock (Nguruman), 98% of tsetse fed on single wild host species, whereas in an area including a mixture of resident domesticated animals, humans and wildlife (Shimba Hills), 52% of flies fed on more than one host species. Multiple Correspondence Analysis revealed strong correlations between feeding pattern, host type and site but these were resolved along a different dimension than trypanosome status, sex and age of the flies.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that individual G. pallidipes in interface areas may show higher feeding success on wild hosts when available but often feed on both wild and domesticated hosts. This illustrates the importance of G. pallidipes as a vector connecting the sylvatic and domestic cycles of African trypanosomes.
Considerations for an integrated population health databank in Africa: lessons from global best practices
Authors: Igumbor Jude O. , Bosire Edna N. , Vicente-Crespo Marta , Igumbor Ehimario U. , Olalekan Uthman A. , Chirwa Tobias F. , Kinyanjui Sam M. , Kyobutungi Catherine , Fonn Sharon
Published: August 2021

Background: The rising digitisation and proliferation of data sources and repositories cannot be ignored. This trend expands opportunities to integrate and share population health data. Such platforms have many benefits, including the potential to efficiently translate information arising from such data to evidence needed to address complex global health challenges. There are pockets of quality data on the continent that may benefit from greater integration. Integration of data sources is however under-explored in Africa. The aim of this article is to identify the requirements and provide practical recommendations for developing a multi-consortia public and population health data-sharing framework for Africa.

Methods: We conducted a narrative review of global best practices and policies on data sharing and its optimisation. We searched eight databases for publications and undertook an iterative snowballing search of articles cited in the identified publications. The Leximancer software © enabled content analysis and selection of a sample of the most relevant articles for detailed review. Themes were developed through immersion in the extracts of selected articles using inductive thematic analysis. We also performed interviews with public and population health stakeholders in Africa to gather their experiences, perceptions, and expectations of data sharing.

Results: Our findings described global stakeholder experiences on research data sharing. We identified some challenges and measures to harness available resources and incentivise data sharing.  We further highlight progress made by the different groups in Africa and identified the infrastructural requirements and considerations when implementing data sharing platforms. Furthermore, the review suggests key reforms required, particularly in the areas of consenting, privacy protection, data ownership, governance, and data access.

Conclusions: The findings underscore the critical role of inclusion, social justice, public good, data security, accountability, legislation, reciprocity, and mutual respect in developing a responsive, ethical, durable, and integrated research data sharing ecosystem.
Beyond behaviour as individual choice: A call to expand understandings around social science in health research
Authors: Nakkeeran N , Sacks Emma , N Srinivas Prashanth , Juneja Anika , Gaitonde Rakhal , Garimella Surekha , Topp Stephanie M
Published: August 2021

The focus of behavioural sciences in shaping behaviour of individuals and populations is well documented. Research and practice insights from behavioural sciences improve our understanding of how people make choices that in turn determine their health, and in turn the health of the population. However, we argue that an isolated focus on behaviour - which is one link in a chain from macro to the micro interventions - is not in sync with the public health approach which per force includes a multi-level interest. The exclusive focus on behaviour manipulation then becomes a temporary solution at best and facilitator of reproduction of harmful structures at worst. Several researchers and policymakers have begun integrating insights from behavioural economics and related disciplines that explain individual choice, for example, by the establishment of Behavioural Insight Teams, or nudge units to inform the design and implementation of public health programs. In order to comprehensively improve public health, we discuss the limitations of an exclusive focus on behaviour change for public health advancement and call for an explicit integration of broader structural and population-level contexts, processes and factors that shape the lives of individuals and groups, health systems and differential health outcomes.
Escrita Pedagógica e Poder: Feiticeiras, Mediadoras e Literatura Vicentina.
Authors: Oliveira Júnior Fernando De Sá
Published: August 2021

Buscamos analisar a escrita pedagógica e moralizante do Século XVI, através das obras escritas pelo Dramaturgo português Gil Vicente: “O velho da horta”, “Auto da Barca do Inferno” e “Auto das Fadas”. O autor se firmou como um dos maiores dramaturgos humanistas entre o final da Idade Média e início de Época Moderna. A literatura vicentina que caminha entre os Autos (gênero literário de teor moralizador e pedagógico) e as Farsas (literatura voltada para a comédia e a ironia), nos apresenta como figura central da sua obra, a figura da feiticeira alcoviteira. Este topoi feminino será aqui o fio condutor para que possamos conhecer mais o universo sociocultural da mulher nesta época e seu lugar no âmbito público e privado, visto que esta personagem dialoga com diversos grupos sociais.
O poder pastoral em Gregório I: um mapeamento teórico.
Authors: Vicente Rodrigo Fernandes
Published: August 2021

Parte de um trabalho monográfico, o presente artigo se dispõe em analisar a forma como que o papa Gregório I – ou Magno – (pontificado 590 – 604) concebeu o poder pastoral através de sua Regula Pastoralis. Elaborada logo após a ascensão de Gregório ao trono de Pedro, a Regra é abordada no sentido de mapear a dinâmica de poder encarada por Gregório e os problemas enfrentados durante o seu pontificado.
Lei suntuária de Valladolid de 1258: a aparência e a moda para as mulheres, os judeus e os mouros
Authors: Vieira Thaiana Gomes
Published: August 2021

O período da Baixa Idade Média é fecundo em normatividades e é quando surge a moda. As vestimentas são, nesse momento, representações sócio-políticas e as leis suntuárias reconhecem e registram as condições dos habitantes da comunidade. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo principal verificar quais eram as motivações da instituição monárquica de Valladolid ao legislar sobre as roupas no ano de 1258.
Editorial: Poderes, Leis e Sociedades na Antiguidade Tardia e no Medievo
Authors: Silveira Marta De Carvalho , Rigas Martins Rosiane Graça , Rigas Martins Rosiane Graça
Published: August 2021

Editorial apresentando o dossiê referente à edição 2021/1
Sonhografias em educação
Authors: Reis Marina Dos , Corazza Sandra Mara
Published: August 2021

Este artigo, dotado de teor ensaístico, pensa a tradução docente como um labor onírico e poético. De um percurso investigativo e inventivo, nascem as Aulas-Sonho e as Sonhografias: transcriações em sonho das partes intraduzíveis (a-traduzir) do Arquivo da Educação. Tais poéticas processam-se também a partir do corpo do docente, o qual, nesse empirismo de contato com o Arquivo e com os alunos, sente da Matéria os mitemas que reinventa, via a tradução artística. É arte que se repete — diferenciando-se— pelo desejo da pesquisa incansável e usando do rigor consciente, o qual se traduz e elabora-se nessa inconsistência do sonho.
Os processos mediacionais implicados na aprendizagem de dança clássica de bailarinas cegas e com baixa visão
Authors: Albarrán Patricia Andrea Osandón , Abreu Fabrício Santos Dias de , Silva Daniele Nunes Henrique
Published: August 2021

O presente trabalho, fundamentado na Teoria Histórico-Cultural, tem o objetivo de ampliar as discussões sobre arte e deficiência visual. A ideia é resgatar os sentidos produzidos pelas bailarinas sobre a aprendizagem da dança clássica. O foco principal é explorar as questões relacionadas às especificidades técnicas desenvolvidas pela professora e pelas bailarinas, o que nos leva a compreender melhor a relação estabelecida entre inclusão social, arte e desenvolvimento humano. O percurso metodológico foi delineado por meio da construção de narrativas realizadas a partir de entrevistas semiestruturadas durante um ano de pesquisa no campo. Participaram do estudo 8 (oito) bailarinas profissionais na idade de 20-35 anos cegas ou com baixa visão de uma companhia brasileira de dança clássica. A partir do material videogravado e do diário de campo transcrito e analisado, discutiu-se: a) a utilização de instrumentos e novos sentidos do movimento; b) a imaginação e o lúdico como aspectos mediadores da aprendizagem; e c) o papel do outro (professora-aluna e aluna-aluna)  na constituição de novos ciclos desenvolvimentais. Os resultados do trabalho indicam a centralidade da linguagem na aquisição da técnica, bem como do uso de instrumentos e de outros recursos, pois a simultaneidade e aglutinação desses diferentes recursos durante o processo de profissionalização foi fundamental para o domínio da técnica. Foi possível concluir que a dança clássica configurou-se para as bailarinas entrevistadas como uma esfera promotora de inclusão social, aprendizagem de um ofício e promoção de novos ciclos desenvolvimentais; uma mudança radical na trajetória de vida delas.
Radiographs of 366 removed limb-lengthening nails reveal differences in bone abnormalities between different nail types
Authors: Iobst Christopher A. , Frost Markus Winther , Rölfing Jan Duedal , Rahbek Ole , Bafor Anirejuoritse , Duncan Molly , Kold Søren
Published: August 2021

Aims

Limb-lengthening nails have largely replaced external fixation in limb-lengthening and reconstructive surgery. However, the adverse events and high prevalence of radiological changes recently noted with the STRYDE lengthening nail have raised concerns about the use of internal lengthening nails. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of radiological bone abnormalities between STRYDE, PRECICE, and FITBONE nails prior to nail removal.

Methods

This was a retrospective case series from three centres. Patients were included if they had either of the three limb-lengthening nails (STYDE, PRECICE, or FITBONE) removed. Standard orthogonal radiographs immediately prior to nail removal were examined for bone abnormalities at the junction of the telescoping nail parts.

Results

In total, 306 patients (168 male, 138 female) had 366 limb-lengthening nails removed. The mean time from nail insertion to radiological evaluation was 434 days (36 to 3,015). Overall, 77% of STRYDE nails (20/26) had bone abnormalities at the interface compared with only 2% of FITBONE (4/242) and 1% of PRECICE nails (1/98; p < 0.001). Focal osteolysis in conjunction with periosteal reaction at the telescoping interface was only observed in STRYDE nails.

Conclusion

Bone abnormalities at the interface of telescoping nail parts were seen in the majority of STRYDE nails, but only very rarely with FITBONE or PRECICE nails. We conclude that the low prevalence of radiological changes at the junctional interface of 242 FITBONE and 98 PRECICE nails at the time of nail removal does not warrant clinical concerns. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(11):1731–1735.
Primary malignant bone tumours of spine and pelvis in children
Authors: Helenius Ilkka J. , Krieg Andreas H.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Axial malignant bone tumours are rare in children and adolescents, and their prognosis is still relatively poor due to non-specific symptoms, such as back or groin pain, which may result in late hospital presentation. Therefore, it is very important to raise awareness regarding this pathology.

Methods

We performed a narrative review, including scientific publications published in English. We searched Medline and Google Scholar databases for information on the incidence and prognosis of axial malignant bone tumours in children and adolescents (< 18 years). Outcomes of different surgical management strategies and reconstruction options were assessed.

Results

The incidence of primary malignant bone tumours before the age of 18 years is approximately five per one million population; around 25% of these tumours are located in the axial skeleton. With a five-year survival rate of 50%, tumours in an axial location (chest cage, spine, pelvis) are associated with a poorer prognosis than tumours in more peripheral locations. En bloc excision with clear margins has been shown to improve local control and overall survival, even though obtaining adequate surgical margins is difficult due to the close location of large neurovascular structures and other major organs. Spinal reconstruction options include instrumented fusion with allograft or expandable cage. Pelvic reconstruction is needed in internal hemipelvectomy, and the options include biological, endoprosthetic reconstructions, hip transposition, arthrodesis or creation of pseudoarthrosis and lumbopelvic instrumentation.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis, a timely adequate multidisciplinary management, appropriate en bloc excision, and reconstruction improve survival and quality of life in these patients.

Level of Evidence

V
Biology and technology in the surgical treatment of malignant bone tumours in children and adolescents, with a special note on the very young
Authors: van der Heijden Lizz , Farfalli Germán L. , Balacó Inês , Alves Cristina , Salom Marta , Lamo-Espinosa José M. , San-Julián Mikel , van de Sande Michiel A.J.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The main challenge in reconstruction after malignant bone tumour resection in young children remains how and when growth-plates can be preserved and which options remain if impossible.

Methods

We describe different strategies to assure best possible long-term function for young children undergoing resection of malignant bone tumours.

Results

Different resources are available to treat children with malignant bones tumours: a) preoperative planning simulates scenarios for tumour resection and limb reconstruction, facilitating decision-making for surgical and reconstructive techniques in individual patients; b) allograft reconstruction offers bone-stock preservation for future needs. Most allografts are intact at long-term follow-up, but limb-length inequalities and corrective/revision surgery are common in young patients; c) free vascularized fibula can be used as stand-alone reconstruction, vascularized augmentation of structural allograft or devitalized autograft. Longitudinal growth and joint remodelling potential can be preserved, if transferred with vascularized proximal physis; d) epiphysiolysis before resection with continuous physeal distraction provides safe resection margins and maintains growth-plate and epiphysis; e) 3D printing may facilitate joint salvage by reconstruction with patient-specific instruments. Very short stems can be created for fixation in (epi-)metaphysis, preserving native joints; f) growing endoprosthesis can provide for remaining growth after resection of epi-metaphyseal tumours. At ten-year follow-up, limb survival was 89%, but multiple surgeries are often required; g) rotationplasty and amputation should be considered if limb salvage is impossible and/or would result in decreased function and quality of life.

Conclusion

Several biological and technological reconstruction options must be merged and used to yield best outcomes when treating young children with malignant bone tumours.

Level of Evidence

Level V Expert opinion
Diagnosis and staging of malignant bone tumours in children: What is due and what is new?
Authors: Salom Marta , Chiari Catharina , Alessandri Jean Maria Gómez , Willegger Madeleine , Windhager Reinhard , Sanpera Ignacio
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Although malignant bone tumours in children are infrequent, it is important to know how to properly diagnose and stage them, in order to establish an adequate treatment.

Methods

We present a review of the diagnostic workflow of malignant bone tumours in children, including history and clinical examination, imaging, laboratory tests and biopsy techniques. Moreover, the two most commonly used staging systems are reviewed.

Results

History, clinical examination and laboratory tests are nonspecific for diagnosing malignant bone tumours in children. Radiographs remain the mainstay for initial diagnosis, with MRI the modality of choice for local assessment and staging. Fluorine-18 labelled fluoro-deoxy-glucose-positron emission tomography scans provide a noninvasive method to assess the aggressiveness of the tumour and to rule out metastasis and is replacing the use of the bone scintigraphy. Biopsy must be always performed under the direction of the surgeon who is to perform the surgical treatment and after all diagnostic evaluation has been done. Staging systems are useful to study the extent of the tumour and its prognosis. They are expected to evolve as we better understand new molecular and genetic findings.

Conclusion

When a malignant bone tumour is suspected in a child, it is essential to make a correct diagnosis and referral to an experienced centre. Following an appropriate workflow for diagnosis and staging facilitates, prompt access to treatment improves outcomes.

Level of Evidence

Level V Expert opinion
On tone and segmental processes in Akan phrasal words: A prosodic account
Authors: Marfo Charles Ofosu
Published: August 2021

Based on where and how phonological rules apply, studies in Lexical Phonology (Mohanan 1986; Kiparsky 1985; Pulleyblank 1986; etc.) distinguish between two levels in the phonology; namely, lexical and post-lexical. At the post-lexical level, the various phonological rules normally require particular domains, without which they fail to apply. The question that follows is where and how we define these domains. Considering Akan Noun-Noun and Noun-Adjective phrasal word (compound) constructions in prosodic phonology (Selkirk 1986, Nespor and Vogel 1986 and Hayes 1989; etc.), this paper touches on some aspects of the prosody-syntax interface on the idea that the domain of a post-lexical rule is drawn from the prosodic component, an intermediate phase of interface analysis. The rules that come to bear are tonal (i.e. H-Deletion, H-Insertion and Boundary assimilation) and segmental (i.e. Prefix deletion and Diphthong simplification) ones that apply on the dictates of particular prosodic domain attainment. Thus, this paper argues that the syntactic structure influences these phonological rules, but indirectly through the prosodic structure (Inkelas 1989). Finally, the paper claims that with the prosodic domains occurrences are better defined and accounted for.
Indikatoren für Verstehen, Missverstehen und Nichtverstehen
Authors: Putz Magdalena
Published: August 2021

This paper discusses understanding, misunderstanding and not-understanding of German dialect expressions. Reactions indicating understanding, misunderstanding and not-understanding in discourse are listed and examples from a medical corpus, analysing the reactions of non-dialect speakers talking to dialect speakers, are discussed.
Varietätengebrauch und Varietätenkontakt in Südtirol und Ostbelgien
Authors: Riehl Claudia Maria
Published: August 2021

Dialect often plays an important role in minority communities where it functions as a marker of ethnic identity. In this case it also becomes an issue for speakers of the majority group who intend to acquire the minority language. The situation, however, differs from region to region and within different minority groups.
The article discusses the linguistic setting and variety use of two German-speaking minorities, South Tyrol and East Belgium. The main focus is on the dimensions of dialect use in different domains, its linguistic influence on the standard variety, and its role for identity building. It will be pointed out that South Tyrolians almost exclusively identify with their regional dialect, whereas East Belgians also make use of language mixing.
In its conclusion the article emphasizes the importance of dialectal and regional varieties for L2-learners: Learners should not only acquire a passive knowledge of the respective minority dialects, but also come to appreciate its symbolic value in the respective communities.
Moments (inter)discursifs et emplois métaphoriques du champ dérivationnel de "ciment" dans la presse Chypriote-grecque. Une approche pragmatico-sémantique
Authors: Constantinou Maria
Published: August 2021

This article intends to closely investigate a particular ad hoc metaphor, which concerns the verb "τσιμεντώνω" "cement" and its derivational fields as they are built upon or interwoven with dynamic intertextual networks in a newspaper. The diversity of usages that this metaphor goes through raises the problem of the semantic displacement or innovation. The study of the metaphorical use of the verb "cement" and its derivational field in a variety of contexts where they appear, leads one to problematize it in the light of the 'trigger utterance', historically and ideologically charged. In other words, the metaphor should be investigated within discursive and intertextual relations, which seem to be established in a newspaper. Semantic movements, multiple interpretations and readings, ambiguity and argumentation are the main problems that this metaphor typically raises in the present study. A textual, enunciative and componential approach will be here adopted.
The Translation of Arabic Collocations into English: Dictionary-based vs. Dictionary-free Measured Knowledge
Authors: Gorgis Dinha T. , Al-Kharabsheh Aladdin
Published: August 2021

This paper compares the output of two translation tasks. In an attempt to find out the extent to which students of translation can translate Arabic contextualized collocations into English properly, two conflicting views about carrying out a translation task are tested. The first holds that avoiding the use of a dictionary in test sessions, though not in translation classes, would save time and yield better translation products, whereas the second contends that recourse to a dictionary is unavoidable at any translation task, including tests. The two opposing views have their corollary in a similar dispute which has already been settled in favour of the mental lexicon rather than the dictionary (cf. Rangelova/Echeandia 2001). The results of this study defeat the first claim and run counter to Rangelova/Echeandia's findings, though obtained from qualitatively a different test setting.
Zum Transfer kulturspezifischer Textbedeutungen. Theoretische und methodische Überlegungen aus einer semiotischen Perspektive
Authors: Hennecke Angelika
Published: August 2021

This paper discusses the role of cultural specific text elements in the constitution of the meaning of the text and focuses the problems which these elements can cause in the translation process. It is based on a description of the translation process as symbiosis of the three categories language, text and culture in a specific situation. The described comprehension of translation turns the question of the methodology of the cultural transfer into a key question that consequently has an impact on the praxis and didactics of translation. The meaning of a text is the result of a complex interaction of different systems in which different types of knowledge are activated. The central question is how culture manifests itself within texts and how these manifestations can be reconstructed, i.e. how the translator's decisions can be made transparent in the context of the transfer. Firstly there is a theoretical reflection on the interdependence of the three categories language, culture and text in which the underlying semiotic conception of text and culture is outlined. On this basis a pragma-semiotic model of the constitution of the text as a complex sign is presented, and a methodology for an integrative text analysis is deduced from this theoretical conception of text constitution. The different forms of cultural specific elements are analyzed and categorized, whereas in addition to the traditional manifestations the concept of intertextuality is introduced and discussed as an important fact for the pragmatic and cultural coherence of the text. The defined forms of cultural specific text elements are illustrated by a number of examples taken from translation praxis and classroom. All the examples are translations from Spanish into German. Finally, the practical and didactical implications, which are of great importance for the training of further translators, are discussed.
Comment exploiter les 'corpus-surprise' ?
Authors: Rittaud-Hutinet Chantal
Published: August 2021

To what extent non-recorded oral corpora may constitute objects of analysis of pragmatic meaning?
These corpora are heard by chance: on the radio, on television, in the street, a shop, a means of transport or generally in any conversational interaction in which the linguist participates, but had not previously planned to record for his research. The problem of the use of these corpora in linguistics is all the more crucial since the aim, in phonopragmatics, is to discover the functions and significations of their phonic part. I shall attempt to answer the following questions:
– The accuracy of the transcription with respect to the original. To what extent can we ignore our own phonological code, our regional variants, mastered/partly known styles of speech?
– The reliability of the oral reproduction carried out by the linguist – for example, during a talk at a conference. What is his capacity for deferred mimicry?
– The relation between a significant discrepancy and the elocutionary habits of the speaker.
– The relation between the comprehension of the external auditors and the effect produced on the 'real' person addressed.
Considering that transparency is (sometimes? often?) an illusion, I shall also examine what precautions should be taken so that these corpora offer guarantees as to the veracity.
Motion Descriptions in English and Greek: A Cross-Typological Developmental Study of Conversations and Narratives
Authors: Selimis Stathis , Katis Demetra
Published: August 2021

Theoretical claims about typologically constrained differences in how speakers habitually describe physical motion are tested through three cross-linguistic developmental studies. Three types of data are analyzed in Greek and English, languages here characterized respectively as Verb- and Satellite-framed in the coding of motion: spontaneous conversations between adults and children aged 1;8–4;6 as well as two types of narratives elicited through pictures and a film from 4-, 7-, 10-year olds and adults. Results show, on the one hand, largely predictable cross-linguistic differences, with overall greater attention paid to manner in English than in Greek and different patterns for coding path. On the other hand, the very appearance as well as intensity of typological effects also depend upon various interacting factors: the precise ways of measuring them, the age of speakers, type, content and communicative exigencies of the discourse as well as the detailed structural characteristics of a language.
Sinatra, He3nry und andere moderne Enzyklopädisten. Synchron und diachron vergleichende Anmerkungen zur Eigen- und Fremdbenennung von Wikipedia-Autoren
Authors: Grzega Joachim
Published: August 2021

This paper analyzes the formation of authors' pseudonyms in the English, German, French, Italian and Spanish versions of the Internet encyclopedia Wikipedia. 694 semi-randomly collected Wikipedia usernames ("nicknames") are checked against traditional classifications of pseudonyms and compared to a semi-randomly collected corpus of 607 pseudonyms of English, German, French, Italian and Spanish writers of the 18th and 19th centuries (who published, at least in part, non-fictional works). The main results of the diachronic comparison are the following: (1) Qualitatively, typical modern phenomena are the replacement of letters by similar-looking special characters (called leetspeak, e. g. Serg!o for Sergio), the use of abstract nouns, the use of non-standard forms, deacronymization (e. g. when a Spanish Wikipedian's initials FG become Efegé), and the formation of nicknames from Wikipedia pseudonyms on users' discussion pages ("nick-nicknames"). (2) Qualitatively, typical historical phenomena are the use of symbols not easily representable on modern (Latin) keyboards (e. g. musical notes and Greek letters). (3) Quantitatively, there is a clear decrease in the use of Latin elements in pseudonyms. A cross-linguistic comparison of Wikipedia nicknames leads to the following characteristic features of the different Wikipedia communities: (a) English Wikipedia nicknames show the highest amount of non-onymic elements and numbers and the lowest amount of nicknames with foreign elements. (b) French-speaking Wikipedians use the lowest amount of numbers in their nicknames and are the least informative as regards telling the motivation behind their usernames. (c) Italian-speaking Wikipedians are the most open to tell about the motivation behind their usernames, use relatively few non-onymic elements in their nicknames, but are very productive as to forming nicknicknames. (d) Spanish-speaking Wikipedians use relatively few appellative lexemes, are the most reserved as to using foreign elements, but use clippings relatively often and are very productive as to forming nicknicknames. (e) German-speaking Wikipedians are most open to using foreign elements.
Relative Importance of Learning Variables on L2 Performance
Authors: Olivares-Cuhat Gabriela
Published: August 2021

In this article, the results of a pilot study investigating the relative importance of various learner variables on L2 performance are presented. The study was conducted with the participation of forty students enrolled in a beginning Spanish class at a large midwestern university. The CANAL S test, FLCAS and SILL surveys were administered to evaluate language learning aptitude, anxiety and learning strategy use. Demographic data and exam grades were also recorded. The data was first analyzed within the framework of a causal model with correlational and multiple regression analyses. A second step involved the evaluation of the relative importance of the learner variables. Third, the validity of the causality postulated between foreign language anxiety and L2 performance was examined. Overall, this paper confirmed the prevailing role played by language learning aptitude and anxiety, and demonstrated the applicability of a multivariate model to analyze the impact of individual differences on L2 performance.
On the Focusing Function of Focusing Adverbs: A Discussion Based on Italian Data
Authors: De Cesare Anna-Maria
Published: August 2021

This paper discusses the focusing function of the so-called focusing adverbs. Based on Italian data, drawn mainly from authentic linguistic corpora, I will provide evidence of the fact that, despite their name, focusing adverbs are not always focusing. They can have a weak, a strong or an anti-focusing effect. The different focusing effects of these forms will be accounted for by showing that they are determined modularly by the interplay of prosodic, syntactic and informational factors.
Die Didaktisierung von Phraseologismen im DaF-Unterricht anhand multimodaler Texte
Authors: Rentel Nadine
Published: August 2021

Semantically complex units cover a high percentage of the lexicon of a language, ranging from collocations or routine formula to proverbs. The difficulty for learners of a foreign language lies in the fact that in many cases the meaning of those elements of the lexicon does not result just from addition of the meaning of individual constituents. Although (active and passive) knowledge about such lexical elements can be considered essential for successful communication in a foreign language, there still exists a lack (we focus on German as a foreign language, but we assume that the situation is comparable for other languages) of up-to-date and authentic didactic material that takes into account the characteristics of semantically complex units and the learners' cognitive strategies to analyze their meaning. In this paper we develop a didactic model that describes the use of magazine advertisements in teaching German as a foreign language. Due to their multimodality (e.g. the combination of verbal and visual elements) the texts allow the learners to better understand and actively use semantically complex units, even with a low competence level. In order to illustrate our didactic approach we present 5 advertisements that we have used with learners of German in their first and second year at a French university. It turns out that not only can phraseology be conveyed in an efficient way but that other educational objectives, such as a general increase of the learners' motivation, can be achieved.
Kommen Kollokationen in Mode? Kollokationskonzepte und ihre mögliche Umsetzung in der Didaktik
Authors: Reder Anna
Published: August 2021

Collocation is defined differently in the various linguistic disciplines and no generally acceptable definition exists. One reason for that is the variety of approaches and another is the complexity of the phenomenon. It follows from the semantic concept of collocation for language learning that the acquisition of vocabulary means the learning of words in isolation and the properties which determine their compatibility with other words. This is an inefficient way and often involves interference errors. In the interpretation of corpus linguistics the learning of words occurring together is encouraged. The student is able to find the collocator matching the basis in a corpus. Searching a corpus, however, has both advantages (learning collocations by examples) and disadvantages (disregarding less frequent collocations). The paper argues that collocations should be conceived as phrasal units and taught using a three-phase model. The target is to achieve psycholinguistic fixedness in the mental lexica of students through effective exercises.
Varietäten und Sprachkontakt in rätoromanischen SMS
Authors: Grünert Matthias
Published: August 2021

As a minority language in Switzerland, the Romansh of the Grisons is exposed to pressure from the dominant language in its region, namely (Swiss) German. Consequently, it has not developed a generally accepted standardized written form, being above all a spoken language, which cedes many written functions to the dominant language. These premises entail a complex spectrum of language variation in informal written use of Romansh in SMS-communication. This variation includes deviations from regional written norms, traits of (dialectal) orality, interference of (Swiss) German, and code-switching to (Swiss) German. Language contact is evident in the fact that Romansh is used for part of an SMS whereas another part of the same SMS sent by the same person may be written in one or even in two varieties of the majority language, i.e. German and Swiss German. Some speakers of Romansh, mainly people who live outside of the traditional linguistic territory, do not write in Romansh at all. It should be noted that the users of Romansh in SMS-communication who participated in this research project are mainly women with university-level educations who are working in the tertiary sector.
Verschiedene Arten der Art und Weise: zu ihrer Positionierung im Deutschen und Englischen
Authors: Pittner Karin
Published: August 2021

Ausgehend von der Annahme, daß die Stellung der Adverbiale ihre semantischen Relationen zum Rest des Satzes widerspiegelt, wird gezeigt, daß die traditionelle Klasse der Adverbiale der Art und Weise in verschiedene Klassen zerfällt; in die bei dem (finalen) Verb stehenden prozeßbezogenen Adverbiale, andererseits in die subjektbezogenen und ereignisbezogenen Adverbiale, die höher im Satz stehen. Adverbiale der "Art und Weise" dieser unterschiedlichen Gruppen zeigen nicht nur im Deutschen, sondern auch im Englischen und Französischen ein unterschiedliches Stellungsverhalten. Unterschiede, die sich zwischen diesen Sprachen hinsichtlich der Stellung dieser Adverbien beobachten lassen, sind auf Unterschiede in den Satzstrukturen zurückzuführen.
Proceeding from the assumption that the positions of adverbials reflect their semantic relations to the rest of the sentence, it is shown that the traditional class of manner adverbs can be divided into several classes: on the one hand there are process-related adverbs which are closely related to (final) verbs, on the other subject-oriented and event-related adverbs occurring higher in the sentence. "Manner adverbs" of these different groups can occupy different positions in German and English as well as in French. It can be argued that differences in adverb positions between these languages are the result of different sentence structures.
Investigation of bandwidth in multimode graded-index plastic optical fibers
Authors: Simović Ana , Drljača Branko , Savović Svetislav , Djordjevich Alexandar , Min Rui
Published: August 2021

A new method is proposed for investigating the bandwidth in multimode graded-index plastic optical fibers (GI POFs). By numerically solving the time-dependent power flow equation, bandwidth is reported for a varied launch conditions (radial offsets) of multimode GI POF. Our theoretical results are supported by the experimental results which show that bandwidth decreases with increasing radial offset. This decrease is more pronounced at short fiber lengths. At fiber length close to the coupling length Lc at which an equilibrium mode distribution (EMD) is achieved, this decrease becomes slower, indicating that mode coupling improves bandwidth at larger fiber lengths. With further increase of fiber length, bandwidth becomes nearly independent of the radial offset, indicating that a steady-state distribution (SSD) is achieved. Such a fiber characterization can be applied to optimize fiber performance in POF links.
Is a thin p-GaN layer possible for making high-efficiency AlGaN-based deep-ultraviolet light-emitting diodes?
Authors: Wang Weidong , Chu Chunshuang , Che Jiamang , Hang Sheng , Shao Hua , Tian Kangkai , Zhang Yonghui , Zhang Zi-Hui
Published: August 2021

In this report, we investigate the impact of a thin p-GaN layer on the efficiency for AlGaN-based deep-ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (DUV LEDs). According to our results, the light extraction efficiency (LEE) becomes higher with the decrease of the p-GaN layer thickness, which can be ascribed to the decreased absorption of DUV emission by the thin p-GaN layer. Moreover, we also find that the variation trend of external quantum efficiency (EQE) is consistent with that of LEE. Therefore, we can speculate that high-efficiency DUV LEDs can be achieved by using thin p-GaN layer to increase the LEE. However, a thin p-GaN layer can also cause severe current crowding effect and the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) will be correspondingly reduced, which will restrict the improvement of EQE. In this work, we find that the adoption of a current spreading layer for such DUV LED with very thin p-GaN layer can facilitate the current spreading effect. For the purpose of demonstration, we then utilize a well-known p-AlGaN/n-AlGaN/p-AlGaN (PNP-AlGaN) structured current spreading layer. Our experimental and numerical results show that, as long as the current crowding effect can be suppressed, the DUV LED with thin p-GaN layer can significantly increase the EQE and the optical power thanks to the enhanced LEE.
Transparent dynamic metasurface for a visually unaffected reconfigurable intelligent surface: controlling transmission/reflection and making a window into an RF lens
Authors: Kitayama Daisuke , Hama Yuto , Goto Kenta , Miyachi Kensuke , Motegi Takeshi , Kagaya Osamu
Published: August 2021

Reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs) that dynamically manipulate scattered waves have attracted much attention regarding accommodating coverage holes in wireless communication systems using radio wave frequencies higher than millimeter waves. RISs generally actualized through metasurface technologies must be visually unaffected so that they can be installed in various locations such as existing walls and glass windows in environments where propagation should be controlled. We propose a novel method that dynamically controls scattering characteristics of metasurfaces while achieving a large area and high optical transparency. For transparency in the visible light range, we use transparent glass as a substrate and meshed metal patterns. Furthermore, by stacking a metasurface substrate onto another transparent substrate and controlling the interlayer distance, we achieve dynamic control of the scattered waves over a large area in the 28-GHz band. Fabricated prototypes successfully operate when switching transmission and reflection modes, exhibiting extremely low loss of less than -1 dB. In metasurface lenses that can be attached to glass windows in outdoor-to-indoor scenarios, the lens gain of 25.4 dB is achieved for a static lens, and dynamic switching operation between single focus and dual focus is also successfully verified for a dynamic lens.
Controllable refractive index sensing and multi-functional detecting based on the spin Hall effect of light
Authors: Liang Chengkang , Wang GuangHui , Deng DongMei , Zhang TingTing
Published: August 2021

In this work, based on the spin Hall effect of light (SHEL), by considering the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect, a multi-functional detecting and controllable refractive index (RI) sensing structure containing sodium is theoretically established. The results reveal that the sodium layer has great influence on transverse shift (TS) of SHEL, while the polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) layer has a large impact on the resonance angle. In the symmetrical distribution of TS, sodium has obvious advantages over gold and silver in the TS and sensitivity. The quantitative relationship between the TS and the RI of the sensing medium is established. Fermi energy, thicknesses of PMMA and sodium can be adjusted to measure the RI of three different orders. Remarkably, the sensitivity can be controlled by changing the thickness of sodium. The structure can also be used to measure the resonance angle and Fermi energy. Therefore, besides the advantages of sodium, this work realizes controllable sensing of RI and the functions of resonance angle and Fermi energy detecting. These studies may open avenues for the application of optical RI sensors and the precision measurement of other physical quantities.