bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Campo de Públicas no Brasil: Diagnóstico exploratório realizado pela rede de pesquisado Campo de Públicas
Authors: Andion Carolina , Cruz Fernanda Natasha Bravo , Midlej Suylan , Silva Matheus Arcelo Fernandes , Ribeiro Erika Caracho
Published: April 2023

Este artigo apresenta o percurso da constituição da Rede de Pesquisa do Campo de Públicas no âmbito da Associação Nacional de Ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão do Campo de Públicas e também o desenho, os aprendizados e os resultados de uma primeira etapa da pesquisa de diagnóstico exploratório de cursos do Campo de Públicas no Brasil, mediante a análise das dimensões de ensino,pesquisa, extensão, estágio e perfil de egressos em 51 projetos pedagógicos. Tem como objetivos sistematizar e apresentar essa experiência e fomentar o diálogo e o engajamento dos participantes do campo (coordenadores de curso, professores, pesquisadores, estudantes, egressos e profissionais) no esforço coletivo de compreender o campo, sua configuração e características.
O ensino de administração pública: Elementos preliminares de uma história intelectual interdisciplinar
Authors: Dias Magalhaes Bruno
Published: April 2023

A afirmação de que o estudo da administração pública é multidisciplinar se tornou consenso nas análises de especialistas brasileiros. Se por um lado tal característica é ponto de partida fundamental para construir uma scholarship transdisciplinar, por outro é preciso ir além do diagnóstico inicial e compreender mais detalhadamente as tradições intelectuais que se interpenetram nesse emaranhado de conhecimento e prática profissional que constitui o Campo de Públicas. O presente trabalho parte dessa premissa e visa contribuir para duas dimensões problemáticas do campo: a ausência de um mapa conceitual consolidado e o raso enraizamento histórico de sua genealogia intelectual. Nosso foco de estudo é o ensino da administração pública conduzido no âmbito dos cursos de graduação e de mestrado da Escola de Governo Professor Paulo Neves de Carvalho, da Fundação JoãoPinheiro, em Minas Gerais. Por meio da análise das monografias e dissertações produzidas em um periodo de 22 anos, o trabalho busca compreender as distintas tradições intelectuais da escola de governo. De maneira geral, encontra-se uma ênfase científica (wissenschaftliche) que incorpora focos mais específicos de conhecimento e experiência prática, notadamente nas áreas de políticaspúblicas, administração pública e gestão pública. Ainda que limitado a uma escola, espera-se que o trabalho apresente elementos preliminares para uma agenda mais ampla, cuja tarefa é escrever a história intelectual do Campo de Públicas no Brasil, assumindo que sua interdisciplinaridade passa pelo (re)conhecimento da identidade de suas áreas disciplinares.
Magnitude and determinants of road traffic accidents in North Gondar Zone; Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Molla Abay Semegnew
Published: April 2023

Background: Despite efforts that the government has made to minimize the number of casualties or injury levels in Ethiopia, road traffic accidents remain a severe health concern throughout the country and in the study area as well. This study aims to examine the primary contributing variables of road traffic accidents in the North Gondar zone, under 24 administrative.  

Methods: The functional class of roads were directly examined on the site to evaluate the existing conditions of the roads which includes the geometric design constraints, functional class, daily traffic, and surfacing materials. Secondary source of data types, previously recorded road traffic accident information was collected from North Gondar zone traffic police departments. Road inventory information was collected from Gondar branch Ethiopian road authority under the specified horizon lines.  

Results: The magnitude and frequency of traffic accidents caused by driver-related factors( age, sex, level of education, driving experience, ownership responsibility of a vehicle and driver responsibility, time and day-wise distribution of traffic accidents), vehicle-related factors (failures of mechanical parts and its service age), road related factors( geometric design and construction, inventory information, road surfacing materials), pedestrians, and environmental factors were critically analysed. The result shows that a higher proportion (67%) of traffic accidents are mainly due to driver behaviour related factors than other causative factors. 

Conclusions: According to the results of the study, bad driving behaviour’s (exceeding the design speed, using a phone while driving, dangerous overtaking, excessive braking, loading above capacities, illegally parking out of public stations should be controlled to reduce the road traffic accident in the study area. In addition, successive up-to-date advanced computerized traffic accident safety training and recording systems should be given at least once a year through regional-based or at a central zone administrative zones for the traffic officers.
The role of demographic factors on religious beliefs: Evidence from five countries
Authors: Wider Walton , Tanucan Jem Cloyd M. , Wu Xiaole , Mutua Christine , Pang Nicholas Tze Ping , Ling Gabriel Hoh Teck , Cheisviyanny Charoline
Published: April 2023

Background: Individuals' values, attitudes, and behaviours are significantly influenced by their religious beliefs. The present study examines the demographic factors (gender, age groups, religion, employment status, household income, marital status, self-perceived adulthood, and country of origin) that may influence religious beliefs.

Methods: The data was collected from September to December 2022 using an online survey. A cross-sectional design was used to collect data from 885 respondents from five countries: Malaysia, the Philippines, China, Kenya, and Indonesia. The survey included questions on five variables related to religious belief: religious certainty, religious culture, religious importance, religious practice, and belief in God. Respondents were asked to rate their level of agreement or disagreement with statements related to each variable on a Likert scale. T-tests and one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the data and determine any significant differences in religious beliefs between the five countries.

Results: The results revealed that female respondents held stronger religious beliefs than male respondents. Furthermore, respondents aged 30-45 rated themselves as having a higher religious culture and practice than respondents aged 18-29. Islam groups ranked highest in religious beliefs, followed by Christian, Roman Catholic, and Hindu groups. Full-time students rated themselves as less religious than full-time employed and other groups, while lower-income groups rated themselves as more religious than middle- and upper-income groups. Single groups rated themselves higher on belief in God than cohabiting and in-relationship groups.

Conclusions: In conclusion, this study provides evidence that demographic factors influence religious beliefs among respondents from five different countries. These findings can contribute to a better understanding of how religiosity is shaped by various socio-demographic factors and can inform policies and interventions designed to promote religious tolerance and diversity. More research is required to investigate the complex relationships between demographic factors and religiosity, particularly in different cultural and religious contexts.
Managing ambiguity and uncertainty in clinical decision-making
Authors: Lafitte Naomi
Published: April 2023

Ambiguity and uncertainty are unavoidable elements of clinical practice. Although they can cause discomfort for both clinicians and patients, they can also be used to positive effect ensuring safer clinical practice that is tailored to individuals. As paramedics generally work in areas of practice where they encounter undifferentiated complaints with limited resources to investigate, diagnostic uncertainty can prove a challenge on a regular basis. Similarly, even when paramedics are fairly confident of the diagnosis, optimal management is frequently unclear or unachievable. This article presents practical short-term strategies to manage both diagnostic and management uncertainty in clinical practice. This article also suggests longer-term tactics that can be developed individually and collectively beginning with developing capability over competence through to changing culture and providing space for supervision. While these strategies may not completely eliminate the discomfort that can arise when faced with ambiguity and uncertainty, they can enable a greater tolerance for it, improve clinical practice, and ultimately benefit patients.
INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT INTERFACE MATERIALS AND OPENINGS IN INFILL OF REINFORCED CONCRETE INFILLED FRAMES
Authors:   SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Department of Civil Engineering, Tamil Nadu, India, Kumar Vishali Mugunth , Srinivasan Satyanarayanan Kachabeswara ,   SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Department of Civil Engineering, Tamil Nadu, India, Varatharajan Thirumurugan ,   SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Department of Civil Engineering, Tamil Nadu, India, Murugan Prakash ,   SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Department of Civil Engineering, Tamil Nadu, India
Published: April 2023

This study analytically investigates the behaviour of trapezoidal infilled frames (TIFs) with brick masonry infills having openings and various interface materials between the brick panel and reinforced concrete frame. Single-storey single-bay frame specimens are analysed under in-plane static loading. For this investigation, the optimum angle of the column inclination for the trapezoidal frame must be determined in terms of maximum lateral stiffness. The optimum angle must be further analysed and compared with rectangular bare and infilled frames, with various materials of the interface. This infilled frame is extended to analyse the openings in the infill further. To study the effects of openings in infilled panels, TIFs with different sizes and positions of window openings are analysed and compared with the rectangular frame. This study further analyses three different combinations of interfaces and determines the intermediate stiffness of the frame combination. The main focus of this investigation is to reduce the high rigidity of the TIF leading to high base shear. It is found that, the infilled frame is stiffer than the bare frame, and the cement mortar interface is stiffer than the lead–cork interface. This research uses ABAQUS software, a finite element analysis program, for expanding the observational analysis.
The meaning of hope for Israeli peace activists: consolidation of collective identity, antidote to despair and spiritual resource
Authors: Halperin Liv
Published: April 2023

Twenty years after the outbreak of the Second Intifada and with the collapse of the Oslo Peace Process, many Israelis perceive the conflict with Palestinians as inevitable and unsolvable, yet some still mobilise for peace. This article investigates the meaning of hope for Jewish and Arab-Palestinian peace activists who joined the two newest peace movements in Israel, Women Wage Peace (2014) and Standing Together (2015). The article draws on qualitative methodologies – in-depth interviews with activists and ethnographic work conducted from 2018 to 2021. It finds that within the context of a protracted conflict, in addition to the distant and more abstract objective of peace, activists view hope as an objective in and of itself. As an attachment to a political vision, a capacity to imagine positive change or a visceral substance, activists embrace hope to consolidate their collective identity, protect themselves from crippling emotions such as despair, resignation and cynicism and/or regain spirituality. Far from being a fraudulent form of hope, the article suggests that this is a radical, authentic and active form of hope to save what can be a political vision, the shattered dream of peace, that remains central to the activists’ sense of identity and belonging. This hope is valuable: it mobilises Israeli peace activists and allows them to avoid despair as they refuse to accept the protracted conflict reality as an unchangeable given.
Lens centering error measurement based on subwavelength grating with power analysis
Authors: Mao Yu-Zhen , Ho Chin-Ting , Shiu Shiau-Cheng , Liu Chun-Wei
Published: April 2023

This study presents a technique for measuring the centering error of a
lens. The technique uses power analysis and is highly accurate. The
module is designed by a prism that is patterned using a subwavelength
grating combined with a reflection-centering system by using the −1st-order rays at 5 mW and 650 nm. The
optical axis error is tested and analyzed by the powermeter by using
Snell’s law and diffractive characteristics. The resolution of the
optical-centering error in the system is amplified by a factor of 4
compared with the centering error measuring system based on
autocollimation. The technique proposed in this study improves the
sensitivity of the instrument and reduces the requirements of the
sensor at the end side based on the direction or energy variation of
the light.
Nonlinear autoregressive with external input neural network for predicting the nonlinear dynamics of supercontinuum generation in optical fibers
Authors: Silva Luís C. B. , Segatto Marcelo E. V.
Published: April 2023

Full characterization of the propagation dynamics of ultra-short pulses in optical fibers is of fundamental importance in designing optical devices for several applications in the nonlinear optics field. Such applications range from basic descriptions of the light–matter dynamics to Bose–Einstein condensates, plasma physics, hydrodynamics, high-resolution imaging, and remote sensing, among many others. Nevertheless, ultra-short pulse propagation is a highly nonlinear process, so correctly describing all temporal and spectral features of these pulses is a big challenge, consuming extensive computational resources. Looking for simple solutions to this problem, we present in this paper, for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, a nonlinear autoregressive with external input neural network (NARXNET) capable of predicting the nonlinear dynamics of supercontinuum generation in optical fibers. The NARXNET structure allows low prediction error, fast training as short as 1.45 min, satisfactory generalization ability, and low computational resources for the training and testing stages.
Optimization of mid-infrared dispersive wave generation at 3 µm in LiNbO3 waveguides
Authors: Ye Feng , Huang Jiayao , Li Qian
Published: April 2023

We propose an effective scheme to enhance mid-infrared dispersive wave (DW) emission, which includes dispersion engineering of the waveguide and the assistance of a CW trigger. Our suggested approach can help achieve better coherence and higher signal-to-noise ratio by adding a weak CW trigger with the femtosecond pulse pump in dispersion engineered lithium niobate (LiNbO3) waveguides. First, the integrated dispersion profile of LiNbO3 waveguides is designed based on dispersion engineering regarding the sidewall angle and slab thickness. Second, with the assistance of a weak CW trigger, the mid-infrared DW is enabled or further enhanced. The optimal CW-triggered wavelength and operating conditions are ascertained. Mid-infrared emission at around 3 µm with a sufficient power level is accessible after optimization, which is feasible for multi-species greenhouse gas detection through gas absorption spectroscopy.
Variational-based approach to investigate Fano resonant plasmonic metasurfaces
Authors: Pasdari-Kia Mohammad , Masihi Ahmad , Mohammadi Milad , Ahmadi Haddi , Memarian Mohammad
Published: April 2023

Considering the widespread applications of resonant phenomena in metasurfaces to bend, slow, concentrate, guide and manipulate lights, it is important to gain deep analytical insight into different types of resonances. Fano resonance and its special case electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) which are realized in coupled resonators, have been the subject of many studies due to their high-quality factor and strong field confinement. In this paper, an efficient approach based on Floquet modal expansion is presented to accurately predict the electromagnetic response of two-dimensional/one-dimensional Fano resonant plasmonic metasurfaces. Unlike the previously reported methods, this method is valid over a wide frequency range for different types of coupled resonators and can be applied to practical structures where the array is placed on one or more dielectric layers. Given that the formulation is written in a comprehensive and flexible way, both metal-based and graphene-based plasmonic metasurfaces under normal/oblique incident waves are investigated, and it is demonstrated that this method can be posed as an accurate tool for the design of diverse practical tunable/untunable metasurfaces.
Fast shadow casting algorithm in analytical polygon-based computer-generated holography
Authors: Dong Jiaqi , Yang Bo-Ru , Qin Zong
Published: April 2023

Shadow casting is essential in computer graphics, which can significantly enhance the reality of rendered images. However, shadow casting is rarely studied in polygon-based computer-generated holography (CGH) because state-of-art triangle-based occlusion handling methods are too complicated for shadow casting and unfeasible for complex mutual occlusion handling. We proposed a novel drawing method based on the analytical polygon-based CGH framework and achieved Z-buffer-based occlusion handling instead of the traditional Painter’s algorithm. We also achieved shadow casting for parallel and point light sources. Our framework can be generalized to N-edge polygon (N-gon) rendering and accelerated using CUDA hardware, by which the rendering speed can be significantly enhanced.
Direct laser writing structural color for reversible encryption and decryption in different mediums
Authors: Dong Bin , Liu Bingrui , Chen Chao , Wang Dawei , Zhang Leran , Xu Liqun , Xiong Wei , Li Jiawen , Hu Yanlei , Chu Jiaru , Wu Dong
Published: April 2023

Structural color (SC) has enormous potential for improving the visualization and identification of functional micro/nano structures for information encryption and intelligent sensing. Nevertheless, achieving the direct writing of SCs at the micro/nano scale and the change of color in response to external stimuli simultaneously is rather challenging. To this end, we directly printed woodpile structures (WSs) utilizing femtosecond laser two-photon polymerization (fs-TPP), which demonstrated obvious SCs under an optical microscope. After that, we achieved the change of SCs by transferring WSs between different mediums. Furthermore, the influence of laser power, structural parameters, and mediums on the SCs was systematically investigated, and the mechanism of SCs using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method was further explored. Finally, we realized the reversible encryption and decryption of certain information. This finding holds broad application prospects in smart sensing, anti-counterfeiting tags, and advanced photonic devices.
Diamond-optic enhanced photon collection efficiency for sensing with nitrogen-vacancy centers
Authors: Omar Muhib , Conta Andreas , Westerhoff Andreas , Hasse Raphael , Chatzidrosos Georgios , Budker Dmitry , Wickenbrock Arne
Published: April 2023

We present a design to increase the amount of collected fluorescence emitted by nitrogen-vacancy color centers in diamond used for quantum-sensing. An improvement was measured in collected fluorescence when comparing oppositely faced emitting surfaces by a factor of 3.8(1). This matches ray-tracing simulation results. This design therefore improves on the shot noise limited sensitivity in optical readout-based measurements of, for instance, magnetic and electric fields, pressure, temperature, and rotations.
Forging the microbiome to help us live long and prosper
Authors: Rock Rachel R. , Turnbaugh Peter J.
Published: April 2023

Aging is often accompanied by an increased risk of an array of diseases spanning the cardiovascular, nervous, and immune systems, among others. Despite remarkable progress in understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in aging, the role of the microbiome remains understudied. In this Essay, we highlight recent progress towards understanding if and how the microbiome contributes to aging and age-associated diseases. Furthermore, we discuss the need to consider sexually dimorphic phenotypes in the context of aging and the microbiome. We also highlight the broad implications for this emerging area of interdisciplinary research to address long-standing questions about host–microbiome interactions across the life span.
Urinary interleukins (IL)-6 and IL-10 in schoolchildren from an area with low prevalence of Schistosoma haematobium infections in coastal Kenya
Authors: Njaanake Kariuki H. , Omondi Job , Mwangi Irene , Jaoko Walter G. , Anzala Omu
Published: April 2023

Urinary cytokines are gaining traction as tools for assessing morbidity in infectious and non-infectious inflammatory diseases of the urogenital tract. However, little is known about the potential of these cytokines in assessing morbidity due to S. haematobium infections. Factors that may influence the urinary cytokine levels as morbidity markers also remain unknown. Therefore the objective of the present study was to assess how urinary interleukins (IL-) 6 and 10 are associated with gender, age, S. haematobium infections, haematuria and urinary tract pathology and; 2) to assess the effects of urine storage temperatures on the cytokines. This was a cross-sectional study in 2018 involving 245 children aged 5–12 years from a S. haematobium endemic area of coastal Kenya. The children were examined for S. haematobium infections, urinary tract morbidity, haematuria and urinary cytokines (IL-6 and IL-10). Urine specimens were also stored at –20°C, 4°C or 25°C for 14 days before being assayed for IL6 and IL-10 using ELISA. The overall prevalence of S. haematobium infections, urinary tract pathology, haematuria, urinary IL-6 and urinary IL-10 were 36.3%, 35.8%, 14.8%, 59.4% and 80.5%, respectively. There were significant associations between prevalence of urinary IL-6, but not IL-10, and age, S. haematobium infection and haematuria (p = 0.045, 0.011 and 0.005, respectively) but not sex or ultrasound-detectable pathology. There were significant differences in IL-6 and IL-10 levels between urine specimens stored at –20°C and those stored at 4°C (p<0.001) and, between those stored at 4°C and those stored at 25°C (p<0.001). Urinary IL-6, but not IL-10, was associated with children’s age, S. haematobium infections and haematuria. However, both urinary IL-6 and IL-10 were not associated with urinary tract morbidity. Both IL-6 and IL-10 were sensitive to urine storage temperatures.
Profiling system-wide variations and similarities between Rheumatic Heart Disease and Acute Rheumatic Fever–A pilot analysis
Authors: Guttapadu Ranjitha , Prakash Nandini , M Alka , Chatterjee Ritika , S Mahantesh , M Jayranganath , Sastry Usha MK , Subramanyam Jayshree Rudrapatna , Chakravortty Dipshikha , R Kalpana S. , Chandra Nagasuma
Published: April 2023

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) continues to affect developing countries with low income due to the lack of resources and effective diagnostic techniques. Understanding the genetic basis common to both the diseases and that of progression from its prequel disease state, Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF), would aid in developing predictive biomarkers and improving patient care. To gain system-wide molecular insights into possible causes for progression, in this pilot study, we collected blood transcriptomes from ARF (5) and RHD (5) patients. Using an integrated transcriptome and network analysis approach, we identified a subnetwork comprising the most significantly differentially expressed genes and most perturbed pathways in RHD compared to ARF. For example, the chemokine signaling pathway was seen to be upregulated, while tryptophan metabolism was found to be downregulated in RHD. The subnetworks of variation between the two conditions provide unbiased molecular-level insights into the host processes that may be linked with the progression of ARF to RHD, which has the potential to inform future diagnostics and therapeutic strategies. We also found a significantly raised neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in both ARF and RHD cohorts. Activated neutrophils and inhibited Natural Killer cell gene signatures reflected the drivers of the inflammatory process typical to both disease conditions.
Glucocorticoid withdrawal and glucocorticoid-induced adrenal insufficiency: Study protocol of the randomized controlled «TOASST” (Taper Or Abrupt Steroid STop) multicenter trial
Authors: Komminoth Mathis , Donath Marc Y. , Hepprich Matthias , Schuetz Philipp , Blum Claudine A. , Mueller Beat , Reny Jean-Luc , Gosselin Pauline , Breville Gautier , Brändle Michael , Henzen Christoph , Leuppi Jörg D. , Kistler Andreas D. , Thurnheer Robert , Beuschlein Felix , Rudofsky Gottfried , Aeberli Daniel , Villiger Peter M. , Böhm Stephan , Chifu Irina , Fassnacht Martin , Meyer Gesine , Bojunga Jörg , Cattaneo Marco , Sluka Constantin , Schneider Helga , Rutishauser Jonas ,   for the «TOASST» study group
Published: April 2023

Background

Despite the widespread use of glucocorticoids in inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, there is uncertainty about the safe cessation of long-term systemic treatment, as data from prospective trials are largely missing. Due to potential disease relapse or glucocorticoid-induced hypocortisolism, the drug is often tapered to sub-physiological doses rather than stopped when the underlying disease is clinically stable, increasing the cumulative drug exposure. Conversely, the duration of exposure to glucocorticoids should be minimized to lower the risk of side effects.

Methods

We designed a multicenter, randomized, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled trial to test the clinical noninferiority of abrupt glucocorticoid stop compared to tapering after ≥28 treatment days with ≥420 mg cumulative and ≥7.5 mg mean daily prednisone-equivalent dose. 573 adult patients treated systemically for various disorders will be included after their underlying disease has been stabilized. Prednisone in tapering doses or matching placebo is administered over 4 weeks. A 250 mg ACTH-test, the result of which will be revealed a posteriori, is performed at study inclusion; all patients are instructed on glucocorticoid stress cover dosing. Follow-up is for 6 months. The composite primary outcome measure is time to hospitalization, death, initiation of unplanned systemic glucocorticoid therapy, or adrenal crisis. Secondary outcomes include the individual components of the primary outcome, cumulative glucocorticoid doses, signs and symptoms of hypocortisolism, and the performance of the ACTH test in predicting the clinical outcome. Cox proportional hazard, linear, and logistic regression models will be used for statistical analysis.

Conclusion

This trial aims to demonstrate the clinical noninferiority and safety of abrupt treatment cessation after ≥28 days of systemic glucocorticoid therapy in patients with stabilized underlying disease.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03153527; EUDRA-CT: 2020–005601–48 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03153527?term=NCT03153527&draw=2&rank=1.
Early signs of cancer present in the fine detail of mammograms
Authors: Raat Emma M. , Evans Karla K.
Published: April 2023

The gist of abnormality can be rapidly extracted by medical experts from global information in medical images, such as mammograms, to identify abnormal mammograms with above-chance accuracy—even before any abnormalities are localizable. The current study evaluated the effect of different high-pass filters on expert radiologists’ performance in detecting the gist of abnormality in mammograms, especially those acquired prior to any visibly actionable lesions. Thirty-four expert radiologists viewed unaltered and high-pass filtered versions of normal and abnormal mammograms. Abnormal mammograms consisted of obvious abnormalities, subtle abnormalities, and currently normal mammograms from women who would go to develop cancer in 2–3 years. Four levels of high-pass filtering were tested (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 cycles per degree (cpd) after brightening and contrast normalizing to the unfiltered mammograms. Overall performance for 0.5 and 1.5 did not change compared to unfiltered but was reduced for 1 and 2 cpd. Critically, filtering that eliminated frequencies below 0.5 and 1.5 cpd significantly boosted performance on mammograms acquired years prior appearance of localizable abnormalities. Filtering at 0.5 did not change the radiologist’s decision criteria compared to unfiltered mammograms whereas other filters resulted in more conservative ratings. The findings bring us closer to identifying the characteristics of the gist of the abnormal that affords radiologists detection of the earliest signs of cancer. A 0.5 cpd high-pass filter significantly boosts subtle, global signals of future cancerous abnormalities, potentially providing an image enhancement strategy for rapid assessment of impending cancer risk.
Gender-based homophily in collaborations across a heterogeneous scholarly landscape
Authors: Wang Y. Samuel , Lee Carole J. , West Jevin D. , Bergstrom Carl T. , Erosheva Elena A.
Published: April 2023

In this article, we investigate the role of gender in collaboration patterns by analyzing gender-based homophily—the tendency for researchers to co-author with individuals of the same gender. We develop and apply novel methodology to the corpus of JSTOR articles, a broad scholarly landscape, which we analyze at various levels of granularity. Most notably, for a precise analysis of gender homophily, we develop methodology which explicitly accounts for the fact that the data comprises heterogeneous intellectual communities and that not all authorships are exchangeable. In particular, we distinguish three phenomena which may affect the distribution of observed gender homophily in collaborations: astructuralcomponent that is due to demographics and non-gendered authorship norms of a scholarly community, acompositionalcomponent which is driven by varying gender representation across sub-disciplines and time, and abehavioralcomponent which we define as the remainder of observed gender homophily after its structural and compositional components have been taken into account. Using minimal modeling assumptions, the methodology we develop allows us to test for behavioral homophily. We find that statistically significant behavioral homophily can be detected across the JSTOR corpus and show that this finding is robust to missing gender indicators in our data. In a secondary analysis, we show that the proportion of women representation in a field is positively associated with the probability of finding statistically significant behavioral homophily.
Distance to climate change consequences reduces willingness to engage in low-cost mitigation actions–Results from an experimental online study from Germany
Authors: Heinz Nicolai , Koessler Ann-Kathrin , Engel Stefanie
Published: April 2023

Adverse consequences of climate change often affect people and places far away from those that have the greatest capacity for mitigation. Several correlational and some experimental studies suggest that the willingness to take mitigation actions may diminish with increasing distance. However, the empirical findings are ambiguous. In order to investigate if and how socio-spatial distance to climate change effects plays a role for the willingness to engage in mitigation actions, we conducted an online experiment with a German population sample (n = 383). We find that the willingness to sign a petition for climate protection was significantly reduced when a person in India with a name of Indian origin was affected by flooding, as compared to a person in Germany with a name of German origin. Distance did not affect donating money to climate protection or approving of mitigation policies. Our results provide evidence for the existence of a negative effect of distance to climate change consequences on the willingness to engage in low-cost mitigation actions. Investigating explanations for such an effect, we find that it can be attributed to the spatial rather than the social dimension of distance. Moreover, we find some cautious evidence that people with strong racist attitudes react differently to the distance manipulations, suggesting a form of environmental racism that could also reduce mitigation action in the case of climate change.
Psychometric development and evaluation of a COVID-19 social stigma scale in Indonesia
Authors: Juniarti Neti , Susanti Raini Diah , Yani Desy Indra , Nurhasanah Nurani
Published: April 2023

Stigma remains a significant problem globally, creating barriers to services for individuals in need, regardless of access to services. The stigma of COVID-19 primarily happened because it is a new disease with several unknowns, and these unknowns generate fear. This study aimed to conduct a psychometric development and evaluate the Public COVID-19 Stigma Scale that follows the Indonesian community’s cultural background. This study used research and development design to measure the COVID-19 stigma through six steps that include seven dimensions and is culturally sensitive, starting from a literature review through to psychometric evaluation. This study was community based and was conducted in 26 regions in the Sumedang Regency. The research and development step ran from July 2021 to November 2022, with a total of 1,686 respondents. The results showed that the social stigma scale for COVID-19 consisted of 11 valid and reliable items that were separated into seven dimensions: social distancing (1 item), traditional prejudice (7 items), exclusionary sentiments (2 items), negative affect (2 items), treatment carryover (1 item), disclosure carryover (2 items), and perception of dangerousness (1 item). Further research needs to be conducted to examine the level of stigma and determine interventions to overcome the social stigma around COVID-19 in the community.
Study on the correlation between basketball players’ multiple-object tracking ability and sports decision-making
Authors: Gou Qifeng , Li Sunnan
Published: April 2023

Background

Players’ multiple-object tracking (MOT) ability is very important in basketball because it may affect players’ sports decision-making (SDM), thus affecting the results of the game. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between expert and novice basketball players in MOT ability and SDM and to explore the correlation between basketball players’ visual attention and SDM.

Methods

A total of 48 female basketball players (24 categorized in the expert group and 24 in the novice group) participated in the MOT task in Experiment 1 and the basketball 3 vs. 3 games in Experiment 2. Experiment 1 examined the difference in dynamic visual attention characteristics between expert players and novice players by changing the tracking number. Experiment 2 examined the differences between expert players and novice players through the SDM of basketball 3 vs. 3 games. Sports decisions were evaluated by basketball experts. MOT ability and SDM ability were analyzed through Pearson correlation.

Results

The overall MOT accuracy of expert players (64.6%) and novice players (55.7%) was significantly different (χ2 = 59.693, P = 0.000). There was no significant difference in accuracy when tracking 2–3 targets (P > 0.05), but there was a significant difference in accuracy when tracking 4–6 targets (P < 0.05). The overall SDM accuracy of expert players (91.6%) and novice players (84.5%) was significantly different (χ2 = 31.975, P = 0.000). There was no significant difference between expert players and novice players in the accuracy of dribbling decision-making (P > 0.05), but there was a significant difference in the accuracy of passing decision-making and shooting decision-making (P < 0.01). When tracking 4–5 targets, the tracking score was positively correlated with the passing decision score and dribbling decision score of expert players, and the tracking score of novice players was positively correlated with the passing decision score (r > 0.6, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

First, the tracking accuracy of expert players was significantly higher than that of novice players, especially when tracking 4–6 targets. As the number of targets increased, accuracy decreased. Second, the accuracy of expert players’ SDM was significantly higher than that of novice players, especially in passing decision-making and shooting decision-making. Expert players exhibited fast and accurate SDM. Third, there was a correlation between MOT ability and SDM performance. The MOT ability of 4–5 targets was positively correlated with passing decision-making, which was statistically significant. The correlation between the MOT ability and SDM performance of expert players was greater and more significant. Having too many targets to track (more than 6) interfered with players’ decisions.
Shoreline Change Analysis of the Eastern Coast of Ghana between 1991 and 2020
Authors: Puplampu Dzifa Adimle , Iddris Khiddir , Alorbu Victor , Otumfuor Asante Jonathan , Laar Takaman Judges , Barimah Owusu Alex
Published: April 2023

The Eastern Coastline of Ghana is facing intense natural and anthropogenic disturbances, which pose a serious threat to the coastal community, ecosystem, and livelihoods. This study assessed the shoreline changes occurring along the Eastern Coast of Ghana stretching 149 km from Laloi Lagoon West of Prampram to Aflao, Ghana. The study utilizes satellite images from Landsat 4TM, Landsat 7 ETM+, and Landsat 8 OLI taken between 1991 and 2020. Data pre-processing techniques using ENVI 5.3 included calibration, layer stacking, mosaicking, and supervised classification. Post-classification shorelines were extracted using ArcGIS 10.7, and the DSAS tool was used to determine the rate of change over the 29-year period. The results showed that the coastline experienced an average erosion rate of 9 m/y and a maximum rate of 24 m/y, however, the accretion rate (3 m/y) was much lower, reflecting general coastline retreat. Thus, some 25 coastal communities are highly exposed to shoreline erosion. Sustaining the coastal area may require coastline re-engineering interventions. This study recommends continuous monitoring of the shorelines to ensure the protection of livelihoods. Implementation of both hard engineering and ecosystem-based adaptation strategies may be required to achieve holistic results toward sustainable coastal management.
Viral Marketing Via Online Networks
Authors:   Faculty of Business and Industrial Development,King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok., Thammakorn Pramoch , Yuphong Sakarin ,   Faculty of Applied ArtsKing Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Kaewkerd Phatthira ,   Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep
Published: April 2023

Viral marketing via online network or viral marketing is one of the internet marketing. It is a form of communication to target group that interested information. The recipient receives the message will be asked to forward the message to their own friend group again. It is a form of interpersonal communication in the form of viral via online network. It is a method to spread information quickly in a short time. This type of marketing has the advantage to spread information quickly but there is a disadvantage in the media that makes the information unreliable. In term of information due to easily distorting various information.
The Development of Multimedia Teaching Material for Floral Embroidery Brooches Pined in Lady's Clothes for Nakhon Laung Polytechnic College Students
Authors:   Faculty of Home Economics Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon, Poosiekeaw Anupong , Kee-ariyo Chayapat ,   Faculty of Home Economics Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon, Suteebut Nomjit ,   Faculty of Home Economics Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon
Published: April 2023

The purposes of this research are : 1) effectiveness teaching of multimedia teaching material for floral embroidery brooches pined in lady's clothes for Nakhon Laung Polytechnic College,2) the assessing is effectiveness teaching of multimedia teaching material for floral embroidery brooches pined in lady's clothes for Nakhon Laung Polytechnic College, and 3) a study of student is satisfaction with teaching of multimedia teaching material for floral embroidery brooches pined in lady's clothes for Nakhon Laung Polytechnic College. The population is the short-term student enrolled in the second semester of the 2020 academic year in Fabric Craft about 35. The instruments use in this research include multimedia teaching materials, practice test, multimedia performance assessment form and satisfaction assessment form (questionnaires).The statistics use in this study include average and the standard deviation. The research found that as follows: 1) effectiveness teaching of multimedia teaching material for floral embroidery brooches pined in lady's clothes for Nakhon Laung Polytechnic College were 80.17/ 87.31 which was higher than the specified criteria. 2) The opinion assessment teaching of multimedia teaching material for floral embroidery brooches pined in lady's clothes for Nakhon Laung Polytechnic College that it was appropriate, possibility and usefulness was at the highest level in all aspects.3) Student satisfaction with teaching of multimedia teaching material for floral embroidery brooches pined in lady's clothes for Nakhon Laung Polytechnic College at that was the highest level in all aspects.
The Meaning of 'So-Called Primitive Accumulation'
Authors: Angus Ian
Published: April 2023

What did Marx mean in his discussion of "so-called primitive accumulation" in Capital? Here, Ian Angus argues that the term is widely misunderstood—but its illumination reveals great insight to the conditions of exploitation and expropriation.
The Partial Pressure of CO2 and Fluxes of CO2 in Semarang Bay, Indonesia
Authors: Muskananfola Max Rudolf , Latifah Nurul , Hartoko Agus , Febrianto Sigit , Winterwerp Johan Christian
Published: April 2023

The CO2 characteristics of the Semarang Bay system on the Northern coast of Java were investigated to understand the roles in carbon dioxide flux. The flux of carbon dioxide at the sea surface between seawater and atmosphere is essential for mitigating atmospheric CO2.  The aims of this study were to assess the variation of CO2 partial pressure seawater (pCO2sea) and CO2 flux and to analyse the water quality variable which has the larger influence on CO2 flux in the waters of Semarang Bay. The variables in this study were temperature, pH, salinity, and DO. Different methods were adopted in the analysis of water samples: spectrophotometric to measure chlorophyll-a and phosphate and titration method to measure Total Alkalinity (TA) and Dissolved Inorganic Carbon (DIC). A CO2 meter was used to measure the CO2atm. The lowest CO2 flux value was (1.86 mmol CO2 m-2 day-1) during the morning period while the pCO2sea reached 461.04 μatm and CO2 flux 83.79 mmol CO2 m-2 day-1 at night. At noon time, with increased temperature, pCO2sea was 461.04 μatm, and CO2 flux was 83.79 mmol CO2 m-2 day-1. The high concentration of chlorophyll-a ranged between 3.55–4.11 mg.L-1.  This chlorophyll-a concentration has a negative correlation with CO2 flux, and it was found that TA and DIC concentrations have no relationship with CO2 flux. Based on PCA analysis, it was found that the variability of CO2 flux in Semarang Bay is influenced by the variability of pCO2sea, sea surface temperature and kwa (affected by wind speed).
Forests and woodlands in Morocco: review of historical evolution, services, priorities for conservation measures and future research
Authors: Serbouti S. , Ettaqy A. , Boukcim H. , Mderssa M.El , El Ghachtouli N. , Abbas Y.
Published: April 2023

Forests and woodland ecosystems in Morocco play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and providing ecological and economic services. Despite advances in administration, technology, and research tools in Morocco, these ecosystems have received limited attention. This paper highlights the importance of forests and woodland ecosystems in Morocco, focusing on their economic significance and the factors that pose a threat to them. Furthermore, guidelines are provided for appropriate conservation measures and future research to better understand the current situation of forests in Morocco. The results show that Moroccan forests and woodlands are rich in flora and fauna, including species with significant economic value, such as medicinal plants. These ecosystems also provide important ecological services, such as serving as habitats for endemic and threatened species. Despite the efforts of the government, human activities have negatively affected these ecosystems. To ensure that these resources are preserved for future generation, we recommend considering the human element as a central factor in all conservation approaches and actions.
Development of superhydrophobic hybrid silica-cellulose aerogel as promising thermal insulation and sound absorption
Authors: Panda Debabrata , Gangawane Krunal M.
Published: April 2023

A cost-effective and facile synthesis method is developed for hybrid aerogels using recycled cellulose fiber concentration of 1–4 wt.% and methoxytrimethylsilane (MTMS). The developed hybrid aerogel was modified with surface hydroxyl groups to achieve superhydrophobic behavior with a contact angle as high as 163.4°. This excellent three-dimensional reticular structure with various cellulose concentrations provides a thermal conductivity of 0.039–0.041 W m−1 K−1. However, the thermal degradation of the hybrid aerogels exhibits a superior improvement with minimum weight loss. A comparatively good sound absorption coefficient of 0.392–0.504 was achieved with the inclusion of cellulose fiber concentration from 1 to 4 wt.% in comparison with silica aerogels (0.303–0.512). The experimental results also show an increase in compressive Young’s modulus of hybrid aerogels up to 96%, with an increase in cellulose concentration. This work delivers a facile approach to developing hybrid aerogels with an industrial application to replace polymer-based insulations.
Effect of spheroidization annealing on low cycle fatigue (LCF) characteristics of cold forged steel components
Authors: Duraikkannu Venkatesan , Ramasami Chandramouli , Srinivasan Venugopal
Published: April 2023

Cold forging is extensively applied to produce components such as shafts, axles, gears, crankshafts and couplings for automobiles. EN 24 and EN 353 steels possess relatively lower carbon content and have great commercial importance, particularly in the automotive sector. While EN 24 is a preferred choice for shafts, EN 353 is largely used in manufacturing gears and pinions. Apart from improving the mechanical properties of steel, heat treatment makes the steel softer, which reduces excessive forming loads during the cold forging process. The objective of this work is to assess the effect of spheroidization annealing on the fatigue characteristics of both EN 24 and EN 353 steels. Specimens prepared from the chosen materials with and without heat treatment were subjected to low cycle fatigue tests and the fractography images were studied. The investigations revealed that (i) the extent of spheroidization was improved with extended holding time during the heating cycle, (ii) EN 24 steel became softer after spheroidization and had the fatigue life almost doubled, and (iii) For EN 353 steel, the spheroidization resulted in a 50% increase in the fatigue life.