bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffuse photon remission associated with the center-illuminated-area-detection geometry. III. Perspectives on the patterns of saturation
Authors: Piao Daqing Daching , Sun Tengfei , Farahzadi Nafiseh
Published: September 2023

Understanding scattering-insensitiveness in diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) will be useful to enhance the spectral specificity to absorption. In DRS based on center-illuminated-area-detection (CIAD), the scattering response can saturate as the relative strength of scattering with respect to the collection-size, represented by a dimensionless reduced scattering, increases over a threshold. However, the formation of saturation versus the same range of dimensionless reduced scattering may differ between a fixed reduced-scattering over an increasing collection-size (case 1) and an increasing reduced scattering over a fixed collection-size (case 2), due to the absorption. Part III demonstrates the differences of the scattering saturation as well as the effect of absorption on it in the CIAD geometry between the two cases while assessed over the same range of the dimensionless reduced scattering. A model allows predicting the absorption-dependent levels of saturation and the corner parameters of saturation transition. When assessed for the absorption coefficient to vary over [0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1] mm-1, the model-predicted levels of saturation agree with MC results with ≤2.2% error in both cases. In comparison, the model-predicted corner parameters of saturation show much different agreements with MC results in the two cases, suggesting that the saturation pattern is much better formed in one than in the other. Experiments conforming to the CIAD geometry support the discrepancy of the saturating patterns between the two cases.
Climate change and the problem of social cost
Authors: Jaeger William K.
Published: September 2023

This paper assesses the prospects for climate stabilization from both positive and normative economic perspectives, and with an eye to the conditions necessary for collective action across the three domains: domestic, international, and intergenerational. While it is well-established that international freeriding and transaction costs pose major impediments to successful environmental agreements, this analysis identifies the intergenerational domain as the source of intractability due to long delays between bearing the mitigation costs and enjoying their eventual climate benefits. This lag causes the net benefits for median-aged voters’ to be negative over their expected remaining lifespans. Drawing from several Integrated Assessment Models of the benefits and costs of climate stabilization actions, the analysis concludes that programs of domestic and international climate actions will be hopelessly stymied by the failure of the actions to pass individual and collective rationality tests. However, these dire findings leave the door open to the possibility that some other change in circumstances might undercut this conclusion. In particular, the assignment of rights has that potential. Indeed, these circumstances echo the canonical insights from Ron Coase’s observation in The Problem of Social Cost (1960) that the arrangement of rights can have large effects on welfare when transaction costs for an externality are high. Current climate rights amount to ade factoopen access right to pollute the atmosphere. Were a right to a stable climate for both for current and future generations recognized, added weight or leverage would add potency to support for climate stabilization policies and international agreements. These legal changes could represent a counterweight to offset the inadequacy of support from the current self-interested generation. Indeed, some recent climate litigation argues that many nations’ constitutions already encompass an affirmative right to a stable climate, a proposition that could represent a powerful means to break the climate impasse.
MBL-1 and EEL-1 affect the splicing and protein levels of MEC-3 to control dendrite complexity
Authors: Xie Jianxin , Zou Wei , Tugizova Madina , Shen Kang , Wang Xiangming
Published: September 2023

Transcription factors (TFs) play critical roles in specifying many aspects of neuronal cell fate including dendritic morphology. How TFs are accurately regulated during neuronal morphogenesis is not fully understood. Here, we show that LIM homeodomain protein MEC-3, the key TF for C. elegans PVD dendrite morphogenesis, is regulated by both alternative splicing and an E3 ubiquitin ligase. The mec-3 gene generates several transcripts by alternative splicing. We find that mbl-1, the orthologue of the muscular dystrophy disease gene muscleblind-like (MBNL), is required for PVD dendrite arbor formation. Our data suggest mbl-1 regulates the alternative splicing of mec-3 to produce its long isoform. Deleting the long isoform of mec-3(deExon2) causes reduction of dendrite complexity. Through a genetic modifier screen, we find that mutation in the E3 ubiquitin ligase EEL-1 suppresses mbl-1 phenotype. eel-1 mutants also suppress mec-3(deExon2) mutant but not the mec-3 null phenotype. Loss of EEL-1 alone leads to excessive dendrite branches. Together, these results indicate that MEC-3 is fine-tuned by alternative splicing and the ubiquitin system to produce the optimal level of dendrite branches.
COVID-19 vaccine uptake and associated factors among adolescents and youths: Findings and implications for future vaccination programmes
Authors: Mudenda Steward , Meyer Johanna C. , Fadare Joseph O. , Ogunleye Olayinka O. , Saleem Zikria , Matafwali Scott K. , Daka Victor , Chabalenge Billy , Chama Jacob , Mukosha Moses , Skosana Phumzile , Witika Bwalya A. , Kalungia Aubrey C. , Hamachila Audrey , Mufwambi Webrod , Godman Brian
Published: September 2023

Adolescents and youths are a key part of the population that needs to be protected against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This is because they are more likely to spread the virus to vulnerable individuals. In view of these concerns, this study investigated the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines and associated factors among adolescents and youths attending secondary schools in Zambia. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 1500 school-going adolescents in Lusaka from September 2022 to November 2022. Overall, 1409 participants took part giving a response rate of 94%. Only 29.2% (n = 411) of the participants were vaccinated against COVID-19 at the time of the study. Compared to their unvaccinated counterparts, vaccinated adolescents and youths scored higher for knowledge (66.2% vs 57.8%) and attitudes (76.7% vs 39.4%) regarding COVID-19 vaccines. Healthcare workers, family/friends and social media were key sources of information regarding the vaccine. Factors associated with increased vaccine uptake were positive attitudes (AOR = 33.62, 95% CI: 19.92–56.73), indicating it was stressful to follow COVID-19 preventive measures (AOR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.09–1.99), participants in Grade 12 (AOR = 3.39, 95% CI: 1.94–5.91), Grade 11 (AOR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.94–5.91), Grade 10 (AOR = 3.48, 95% CI: 1.98–6.11) and Grade 9 (AOR = 3.04, 95% CI: 1.74–5.32) compared to Grade 8. This study found a relatively low uptake of COVID-19 vaccines among adolescents and youths in Zambia. There is a need to provide adequate strategies to address knowledge and attitude gaps regarding COVID-19 vaccines to improve uptake and reduce future morbidity and mortality.
Belgian Culex pipiens pipiens are competent vectors for West Nile virus while Culex modestus are competent vectors for Usutu virus
Authors: Soto Alina , De Coninck Lander , Devlies Ann-Sophie , Van De Wiele Celine , Rosales Rosas Ana Lucia , Wang Lanjiao , Matthijnssens Jelle , Delang Leen
Published: September 2023

Background

West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) are emerging arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) in Europe transmitted by Culex mosquitoes. In Belgium, it is currently unknown which Culex species are competent vectors for WNV or USUV and if these mosquitoes carry Wolbachia, an endosymbiotic bacterium that can block arbovirus transmission. The aims of our study were to measure the vector competence of Belgian Culex mosquitoes to WNV and USUV and determine if a naturally acquired Wolbachia infection can influence virus transmission.

Methodology/Principal findings

Female Culex mosquitoes were captured from urban and peri-urban sites in Leuven, Belgium and offered an infectious bloodmeal containing WNV lineage 2, USUV European (EU) lineage 3, or USUV African (AF) lineage 3. Blood-fed females were incubated for 14 days at 25°C after which the body, head, and saliva were collected to measure infection, dissemination, and transmission rates as well as transmission efficiency. Mosquito species were identified by qRT-PCR or Sanger sequencing, the presence of infectious virus in mosquitoes was confirmed by plaque assays, and viral genome copies were quantified by qRT-PCR. Culex pipiens pipiens were able to transmit WNV (4.3% transmission efficiency, n = 2/47) but not USUV (EU lineage: n = 0/56; AF lineage: n = 0/37). In contrast, Culex modestus were able to transmit USUV (AF lineage: 20% transmission efficiency, n = 1/5) but not WNV (n = 0/6). We found that the presence or absence of Wolbachia was species-dependent and did not associate with virus transmission.

Conclusions/Significance

This is the first report that Belgian Culex mosquitoes can transmit both WNV and USUV, forewarning the risk of human transmission. More research is needed to understand the potential influence of Wolbachia on arbovirus transmission in Culex modestus mosquitoes.
Effectiveness of acupuncture as adjunctive therapy in type 2 diabetic: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Cheok Yean Chin , Mohd Shariff Zalilah , Chan Yoke Mun , Ng Ooi Chuan , Lee Ping Yein
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is increasing worldwide. The literature suggests that acupuncture is a possible complementary therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of acupuncture as an adjunctive therapy on homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and methods

This randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, and parallel design trial will be carried out in a public university teaching hospitals in Malaysia. Eligible type 2 diabetes mellitus subjects will be randomly assigned to receive either acupuncture (n = 30) or a placebo (n = 30). The intervention is carried out using press needle or press placebo on abdomen area (10 sessions of treatment). Both groups will continue with their routine diabetes care. Primary outcome of HOMA-IR will be measured at the time of recruitment (-week 0), and after completion of 10 sessions (week 7) of the treatment. Additionally, secondary outcome of HRQoL will be measured at the time of recruitment (-week 0), after completion of 5 sessions (week 3/4), and 10 sessions (week 7) of the treatment. Any adverse event will be recorded at every visit.

Discussion

The findings of this study will provide important clinical evidence for the effect of acupuncture as adjunctive therapy on HOMA-IR, adiposity and HRQoL of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Trial registration number

NCT04829045.
Weight trajectories and obesity remission among school-aged children
Authors: Foster Byron A. , Latour Emile , Lim Jeong Youn , Weinstein Kelsey
Published: September 2023

Background

Many studies examining weight trajectories have used adiposity measures shown to be problematic for trajectory analysis in children with obesity, and remission of obesity remains poorly understood.

Objectives

To describe weight trajectories for school-aged children, the rate of obesity remission and factors associated.

Methods

Children between 6 and 11 years of age with ≥3 valid height and weight measurements from an Oregon hospital-system over a minimum six-month period were included. Percent distance from the median body mass index (BMI) was used for modeling. Latent class analysis and linear mixed models were used to classify children based on their weight trajectory.

Results

We included 11,247 subjects with a median of 2.1 years of follow-up, with 1,614 (14.4%) classified as overweight and 1,794 (16.0%) classified as obese. Of subjects with obesity, 1% experienced remission during follow-up, whereas 23% of those with overweight moved to within a healthy weight range. Latent class analysis identified three classes within each weight-based stratum over time. The majority of children with overweight or obesity had a flat trajectory over time. Lower socioeconomic status was associated with a worsening trajectory. Latent class models using alternate measures (BMI, BMI z-scores, tri-ponderal mass index (TMI)) differed substantially from each other.

Conclusions

Obesity remission was uncommon using the adiposity metric of distance from the median though transition from overweight to healthy weight was more common. Children with low socioeconomic status have worse trajectories overall. The choice of adiposity metric may have a substantial effect on the outcomes.
Developing a consensus of recovery from suicidal ideations and behaviours: A Delphi study with experts by experience
Authors: Ropaj Esmira , Haddock Gillian , Pratt Daniel
Published: September 2023

Background

Understanding recovery in mental health has received significant attention and consequently, recovery has been incorporated into health policy across many countries in the Global North. In comparison, the concept of ‘recovery’ from suicidal thoughts and behaviours has received little attention. However, the few studies in this area appear to suggest that recovery is a complex and an idiosyncratic process with many contributing factors. This can present a challenge for clinicians and services seeking to become more recovery focused. Thus, it seems of importance to develop a consensus on how recovery from suicidal thoughts and behaviours is conceptualised.

Aim

The study aimed to use the Delphi design to establish a consensus of how recovery is defined by those with lived experience of suicidal thoughts and behaviours. The Delphi method draws on the expertise of a panel, often involving clinicians, researchers and lived experience experts to develop consensus over a topic by inviting them to rate the importance of, often a series of statements to a given topic area.

Method

Lived experience experts were asked to complete two rounds of questionnaires distributed online to capture their views on recovery.

Results

A total of 196 individuals gave their views on the first round of the study and 97 gave their views on the second round. A final list of 110 statements was developed that 80% or more of participants defined as essential or important. Statements covered items that were important in defining, facilitation and hindering the process of recovery.

Conclusion

Findings are consistent with the wider literature that suggests that recovery is an idiosyncratic process, but with many commonly shared features. Here we also show that a comprehensive definition of recovery must include factors that hinder the process of recovery. Implications and recommendations for practice, policy development and future research are discussed.
Expansion microscopy using a single anchor molecule for high-yield multiplexed imaging of proteins and RNAs
Authors: Cui Yi , Yang Gaojie , Goodwin Daniel R. , O’Flanagan Ciara H. , Sinha Anubhav , Zhang Chi , Kitko Kristina E. , Shin Tay Won , Park Demian , Aparicio Samuel ,   CRUK IMAXT Grand Challenge Consortium, Boyden Edward S.
Published: September 2023

Expansion microscopy (ExM), by physically enlarging specimens in an isotropic fashion, enables nanoimaging on standard light microscopes. Key to existing ExM protocols is the equipping of different kinds of molecules, with different kinds of anchoring moieties, so they can all be pulled apart from each other by polymer swelling. Here we present a multifunctional anchor, an acrylate epoxide, that enables proteins and RNAs to be equipped with anchors in a single experimental step. This reagent simplifies ExM protocols and reduces cost (by 2-10-fold for a typical multiplexed ExM experiment) compared to previous strategies for equipping RNAs with anchors. We show that this united ExM (uniExM) protocol can be used to preserve and visualize RNA transcripts, proteins in biologically relevant ultrastructures, and sets of RNA transcripts in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) cancer tissues and may support the visualization of other kinds of biomolecular species as well. uniExM may find many uses in the simple, multimodal nanoscale analysis of cells and tissues.
“They have their own people”: Emotional connections, community belonging, and Chinese gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) college students’ needs for sexual health support
Authors: Yang Minhui , Li Chunyan , Zou Kaiyue , Liang Yun , Zhang Rudong , Tang Kun
Published: September 2023

Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) college students in China have unique sexual health challenges, including a higher risk of HIV infection, stigma and discrimination against LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) population, and limited access to LGBTQ-affirmative sexual health support. Nonetheless, previous research or policymaking has rarely addressed the students’ needs for sexual health support from their perspectives. This study aims to explore GBMSM college students’ perceptions and attitudes to current sexual health resources, the challenges they encounter, and their expectations to acquiring LGBTQ-affirmative sexual health information and services. The exploration was carried out through field visits and in-depth interviews with 26 GBMSM college students and eight relevant stakeholders in five cities in China. Qualitative thematic analysis was applied to the interview transcripts and fieldwork memos. Four themes emerged around the preference and needs of GBMSM students in dealing with their sexual health challenges: the association between tackling sexual health challenges and entering LGBTQ communities, the roles of emotional attachment in shaping the preference for HIV-related care and support, the desired modes of acquiring sexual health support, and the current unmet service needs. We discovered that the information-and-care-seeking behaviors of GBMSM college students are highly influenced by and connected to their participation in online and in-person LGBTQ communities. Due to the overall stigmatizing sociocultural environment of LGBTQ in China, GBMSM college students tend to rely on LGBTQ communities, seeking trust and a sense of belongingness for tackling their sexual health challenges. Conventional school-based sexual health educational programs, which often apply top-down, stigma-and-fear-based, and non-LGBTQ-inclusive teaching strategies, rarely help GBMSM college students to solve sexual health problems in real life. GBMSM college students are eager to have LGBTQ-affirmative "health managers" who can understand their emotional experiences and interpersonal contexts and assist them with sexual health issues. However, such support is generally perceived as limited by the students. Our study highlights these unmet needs of the GBMSM students and emphasizes the importance of developing future LGBTQ-affirmative sexual health programs among Chinese GBMSM college students and young GBMSM in general.
Impact of COVID-19 on older adults with cancer and their caregivers’ cancer treatment experiences study: The ICE-OLD study
Authors: Low Cydney , Tejero Isabel , Toledano Nelly , Mariano Caroline , Alibhai Shabbir , Lemonde Manon , Haase Kristen , Puts Martine
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic and health services impacts related to physical distancing posed many challenges for older adults with cancer. The goal of this study was to examine the impact of the pandemic on cancer treatment plans and cancer treatment experiences of older adults (ie, aged 65 years and older) and their caregiver’ experiences of caring for older adults during the pandemic to highlight gaps in care experienced. In this multi-centre qualitative study guided by an interpretive descriptive research approach we interviewed older adults diagnosed with cancer and caregivers caring for them. Participants were recruited via cancer treatment centres in the provinces of British Columbia and Ontario (Vancouver and Toronto), Canada, and through an online ad sent out through patient advocacy organization newsletters. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim and data were analyzed using an interpretive thematic analysis approach. A total of 27 individuals (17 older adults, 52.9% female; 10 caregivers, 90% female) participated in interviews lasting on average 45 minutes. Older adults with cancer described many impacts and pressures created by the pandemic on their cancer experiences, though they generally felt that the pandemic did not impact treatment decisions made and access to care. We grouped our findings into two main themes with their accompanying sub-themes, related to: (1) alterations in the individual and dyadic cancer experience; and (2) navigating health and cancer systems during the pandemic. The additional stressors the pandemic placed on older adults during their treatment and decision-making process and their caregivers expose the need to create or avail additional supports for future disruptions in care.
Chloroplast genome, nuclear ITS regions, mitogenome regions, and Skmer analysis resolved the genetic relationship among Cinnamomum species in Sri Lanka
Authors: Bandaranayake Pradeepa C. G. , Naranpanawa Nathasha , Chandrasekara C. H. W. M. R. Bhagya , Samarakoon Hiruna , Lokuge S. , Jayasundara S. , Bandaranayake Asitha U. , Pushpakumara D. K. N. G. , Wijesundara D. Siril A.
Published: September 2023

Cinnamomumspecies have gained worldwide attention because of their economic benefits. Among them,C.verum(synonymous withC.zeylanicumBlume), commonly known as Ceylon Cinnamon or True Cinnamon is mainly produced in Sri Lanka. In addition, Sri Lanka is home to seven endemic wild cinnamon species,C.capparu-coronde,C.citriodorum,C.dubium,C.litseifolium,C.ovalifolium,C.rivulorumandC.sinharajaense. Proper identification and genetic characterization are fundamental for the conservation and commercialization of these species. While some species can be identified based on distinct morphological or chemical traits, others cannot be identified easily morphologically or chemically. The DNA barcoding usingrbcL,matK, andtrnH-psbA regions could not also resolve the identification ofCinnamomumspecies in Sri Lanka. Therefore, we generated Illumina Hiseq data of about 20x coverage for each identified species and aC.verumsample (India) and assembled the chloroplast genome, nuclear ITS regions, and several mitochondrial genes, and conducted Skmer analysis. Chloroplast genomes of all eight species were assembled using a seed-based method.According to the Bayesian phylogenomic tree constructed with the complete chloroplast genomes, theC.verum(Sri Lanka) is sister to previously sequencedC.verum(NC_035236.1, KY635878.1),C.dubiumandC.rivulorum. TheC.verumsample from India is sister toC.litseifoliumandC.ovalifolium. According to the ITS regions studied,C.verum(Sri Lanka) is sister toC.verum(NC_035236.1),C.dubiumandC.rivulorum.Cinnamomum verum(India) shares an identical ITS region withC.ovalifolium,C.litseifolium,C.citriodorum, andC.capparu-coronde. According to the Skmer analysisC.verum(Sri Lanka) is sister toC.dubiumandC.rivulorum, whereas C.verum(India) is sister toC.ovalifolium, andC.litseifolium. The chloroplast geneycf1was identified as a chloroplast barcode for the identification ofCinnamomumspecies. We identified an 18 bp indel region in theycf1gene, that could differentiateC.verum(India) andC.verum(Sri Lanka) samples tested.
An elite approach to re-design Aquila optimizer for efficient AFR system control
Authors: Izci Davut , Ekinci Serdar , Hussien Abdelazim G.
Published: September 2023

Controlling the air-fuel ratio system (AFR) in lean combustion spark-ignition engines is crucial for mitigating emissions and addressing climate change. In this regard, this study proposes an enhanced version of the Aquila optimizer (ImpAO) with a modified elite opposition-based learning technique to optimize the feedforward (FF) mechanism and proportional-integral (PI) controller parameters for AFR control. Simulation results demonstrate ImpAO’s outstanding performance compared to state-of-the-art algorithms. It achieves a minimum cost function value of 0.6759, exhibiting robustness and stability with an average ± standard deviation range of 0.6823±0.0047. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test confirms highly significant differences (p<0.001) between ImpAO and other algorithms. ImpAO also outperforms competitors in terms of elapsed time, with an average of 43.6072sper run. Transient response analysis reveals that ImpAO achieves a lower rise time of 1.1845s, settling time of 3.0188s, overshoot of 0.1679%, and peak time of 4.0371scompared to alternative algorithms. The algorithm consistently achieves lower error-based cost function values, indicating more accurate control. ImpAO demonstrates superior capabilities in tracking the desired input signal compared to other algorithms. Comparative assessment with recent metaheuristic algorithms further confirms ImpAO’s superior performance in terms of transient response metrics and error-based cost functions. In summary, the simulation results provide strong evidence of the exceptional performance and effectiveness of the proposed ImpAO algorithm. It establishes ImpAO as a reliable and superior solution for optimizing the FF mechanism-supported PI controller for the AFR system, surpassing state-of-the-art algorithms and recent metaheuristic optimizers.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on Tuberculosis and HIV services in Ghana: An interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Osei Eric , Amu Hubert , Kye-Duodu Gideon , Kwabla Mavis Pearl , Danso Evans , Binka Fred N. , Kim So Yoon
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) burden, coupled with unprecedented control measures including physical distancing, travel bans, and lockdowns of cities, implemented to stop the spread of the virus, have undoubtedly far-reaching aftereffects on other diseases. In low and middle-income countries (LMICs), a particular worry is the potential impact on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Tuberculosis (TB), as a consequence of possible disruption to health services and limiting access to needed life-saving health care. In Ghana, there is a paucity of information regarding the impact of COVID-19 on disease control, particularly TB and HIV control. This study sought to contribute to bridging this knowledge gap.

Method

The study involved the analysis of secondary data obtained from the District Health Information Management System-2 (DHIMS-2) database of Ghana Health Service, from 2016 to 2020. Data were analysed using an interrupted time-series regression approach to estimate the impact of COVID-19 on TB case notification, HIV testing, and Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) initiations, using March 2020 as the event period.

Results

The study showed that during the COVID-19 pandemic period, there was an abrupt decline of 20.5% (955CI: 16.0%, 24.5%) in TB case notifications in April and 32.7% (95%CI: 28.8%, 39.1%) in May 2020, with a median monthly decline of 21.4% from April-December 2020. A cumulative loss of 2,128 (20%; 95%CI: 13.3%, 26.7%) TB cases was observed nationwide as of December 2020. There was also a 40.3% decrease in people presenting for HIV tests in the first month of COVID-19 (April 2020) and a cumulative loss of 262620 (26.5%) HIV tests as of December 2020 attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic. ART initiations increased by 39.2% in the first month and thereafter decreased by an average of 10% per month from May to September 2020. Cumulatively, 443 (1.9%) more of the people living with HIV initiated ART during the pandemic period, however, this was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted TB case notifications and HIV testing and counselling services, However, ART initiation was generally not impacted during the first year of the pandemic. Proactive approaches aimed at actively finding the thousands of individuals with TB who were missed in 2020 and increasing HIV testing and counselling and subsequent treatment initiations should be prioritised.
Proposition d’intégration des outils de tal pour une classe de fle, à travers le cas complexe du corpus d’archives de la presse de la Première Guerre Mondiale
Authors: de Oliveira Ana Paula
Published: September 2023

A medida que la tecnología ha ido desarrollándose a lo largo del último siglo, los profesores e investigadores se han ido preocupando cada vez más por el lugar que ocupa el TALN (Tratamiento Automático del Lenguaje Natural) en nuestras aulas y, en particular, por la popularidad del TALN en las últimas décadas. Pero, ¿cómo se pueden aprovechar estos recursos? ¿Cuáles son las ventajas y los inconvenientes? ¿Cuáles son las cuestiones que se plantean en estos nuevos métodos de enseñanza? Todas estas son preguntas a las que hemos intentado dar respuesta a lo largo de esta tesis. Partiendo de varios documentos auténticos (artículos de prensa de la Primera Guerra Mundial) que tuvimos que limpiar escrupulosamente antes de cualquier manipulación informática, nos propusimos construir una reflexión sobre el posible aprendizaje del lenguaje y la lingüística desde la perspectiva del TALN. Con esta idea, nos planteamos estructurar nuestra investigación en diferentes etapas: limpieza del corpus, experimentos lexicométricos y textométricos diversos y múltiples desde un enfoque sociocultural y lingüístico y, por último, una serie de explotaciones didácticas, en particular, mediante el diseño de ejercicios semi-automatizados. En otras palabras, se trata de una propuesta de enseñanza de las lenguas y la lingüística a través del prisma de la informática, la inteligencia artificial, pero también de la historia. Estas diferentes perspectivas han alimentado nuestro continuo interés por la investigación. Esperamos, a través de esta tesis, haber podido añadir una piedra al edificio de esta gran conquista que es la enseñanza de las lenguas, desde una perspectiva diferente e incluso innovadora.
La pioggia d’oro, Danae e gli stupri invisibili
Authors: Giallongo Angela
Published: September 2023

Utilizzando il concetto di cultura dello stupro, configurato dalle femministe nel 1970, il contributo richiama l’attenzione su tre principali contesti: le irruzioni genitali sovrumane verso donne mortali ed immortali come temi ricorrenti della mitologia classica; il ruolo delle Fabulae di Igino nella società romana (i sec. a. C.-i sec. d. C.) e negli attuali licei italiani; una panoramica, nel quadro delle ricerche svolte, sulle strategie comunicative adottate dall’arte classica a quella contemporanea per il caso Danae. Funziona come una sorta di fermo immagine la memorabile fecondante pioggia dorata sulla ragazza che suggerisce, fra altro, ora la più spettacolare unione erotica ora un miracolo divino ora un atto illecito. Il focus forse ci aiuta a comprendere gli schemi mitologici riguardo alle violenze sessuali e a decifrare la familiare eredità dell’ideologia educativa sottostante alle opere didattiche-letterarie e alle attività artistiche.
Dante Alighieri, universal y atemporal, desde su tiempo y geografía
Authors: Gil Rovira Manuel
Published: September 2023

El artículo aborda la figura de Dante como referencia y comparación constante y creciente del compromiso intelectual y político a lo largo del tiempo y en la actualidad. Como vigencia que se genera en la controversia, se hace un repaso de ese Dante testigo comprometido de su tiempo y elemento político evidenciado en su obra, que es la que da lugar a que se convierta en ese elemento político, testimonio aferrable para otras épocas hasta el presente.
Le rime di Veronica Franco nella selva letteraria del rinascimento
Authors: Mascarell Garcia Maria
Published: September 2023

Oltre a un’introduzione alla Venezia del xvi secolo, si tratterà la vita della poetessa Veronica Franco. Ci troviamo in un momento storico in cui era ancora in dubbio se le donne erano o non erano esseri umani; queste vivevano soggette alle convenzioni sociali tipiche dell’epoca, e i difensori dell’uguaglianza si confrontavano con un apogeo misogino originale del Medioevo. Nonostante ciò, molte donne riuscirono a farsi valere e a proiettare le loro capacità verso il mondo esterno.
Bronte: storia di ingiustizia e ribellione. Da Verga a Vancini
Authors: Pistoia Francesco Maria
Published: September 2023

I fatti di Bronte costituiscono una delle pagine più violente del processo di unificazione italiana. L’insurrezione popolare degli abitanti del paese si trasformò in una sanguinosa rivolta che venne soffocata ben presto da una repressione altrettanto violenta, ordinata da Garibaldi e operata da Nino Bixio. In questo articolo, la novella Libertà di Giovanni Verga, ispirata agli eventi di Bronte, verrà comparata con l’opera cinematografica Bronte: cronaca di un massacro che i libri di storia non hanno raccontato di Florestano Vancini.
«Lo chiamavano Malpelo». Verga per la generazione Z
Authors: Tirendi Carla
Published: September 2023

Una rilettura della novella Rosso Malpelo attraverso la canzone, dall’omonimo titolo, di Anastasio. L’analisi del testo verterà sul piano interpretativo, alla ricerca degli elementi della cultura pop che rimandano al tema del pregiudizio. Dunque, sarà possibile mettere a fuoco la prospettiva da cui la generazione Z apprende la lezione verghiana.
October Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Emphasizing Equity in Access to Early Detection
Authors:   Sunvalley Communication, LLC, Garcia Danielle
Published: September 2023

As October draws near, the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes to the forefront, shedding light on the significant impact of breast cancer on people’s lives, it may be appropriate to consider the unequal access to care. Especially since, alarmingly, breast cancer continues to affect a significant number of individuals in the US, making it a prevalent health concern.
Collegiate Program Alignments of STEM Graduates of Mercedes B. Peralta Senior High School along the Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Mathematics (STEAM) Domains and Allied Disciplines: A Tracer Study
Authors: Mediana Nardito Jr.
Published: September 2023

STEM education and the pursuit of STEAM-allied collegiate programs hold pivotal roles in fostering economic and social progress, empowering individuals to contribute substantively to technological advancements, scientific discoveries, and sustainable practices. The investigation into the collegiate program alignments of STEM graduates at Mercedes B. Peralta Senior High School has yielded foundational insights that could shape educational strategies, professional pathways, and the dynamic interaction between education and the evolving STEAM landscape. This study encompassed 65 STEM graduates from the initial three years of implementation (2019–2020, 2020–2021, and 2021– 2022), uncovering insights into enrollment patterns, gender dynamics, and factors influencing STEM education decisions. The inconsistent enrollment rates, gender representation trends, and factors like accessibility and role models underscore intricate student choices, necessitating tailored interventions for equity promotion and curriculum enhancement. The integration of Agriculture into the STEAM framework accentuates its role in sustainable solutions, while collaboration among experts in Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Mathematics fuels innovation and addresses global challenges. The data reflects a diverse interest in interdisciplinary fields, with 47.69% opting for STEAM-allied programs and 52.31% for non-STEAM paths. DOST scholarships emphasize potential, while other scholarships showcase readiness for excellence. In addition, the motivations of STEM graduates in pursuing collegiate programs reflect diverse career prospects, scholarships, income potential, role models, and parental input for STEAM-allied paths. Conversely, selecting non-STEAM routes is shaped by admission hurdles, limited options, perceived complexity, costs, disinterest, and parental influence. These findings emphasize the complexity of decisions and the necessity for personalized assistance. Overall, alignment with STEAM courses enhances adaptability and societal contributions, positioning graduates as drivers of sustainable development and innovation.
Infinitive avoidance and splendid isolation: Rousseau and the use of conflicts in education
Authors: Pouwels Jan
Published: September 2023

The impact of Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s educational philosophy can hardly be overestimated. In this article, I re-examine Rousseau’s key text Emile, or On Education and discuss his concept of conflict and the use of conflicts in his imaginary educational philosophy. A detailed analysis suggests that Rousseau was not only an extreme avoider of conflict, by putting Emile in multiple forms of isolation, but that he also postponed any form of social conflict and carefully controlled, directed and manipulated Emile’s personal and social experiences. To realise a new way of upbringing following the ‘natural’ development of the child, I contend that Rousseau excelled in an obsessively controlled and manipulative pedagogy. Liberation from social norms and traditions – by following the unfolding ‘natural development’, which was Rousseau’s overall project – turned into an individual dictate ruled by an omnipresent educational governor: Rousseau. I conclude that Rousseau’s philosophy of education was deliberately anti-social and might well be a fundamental barrier to regaining conflicts in education.
Personal Dosimeters Worn by Radiation Workers in Korea: Actual Condition and Consideration of Their Proper Application for Radiation Protection
Authors: Noh Eunbi , Lee Dalnim , Park Sunhoo , Seo Songwon
Published: September 2023

Background: Assessment of the radiation doses to which workers are exposed can differ depending on the placement of dosimeters on the body. In addition, it is affected by whether the placement is under or over a shielding apron. This study aimed to evaluate the actual positioning of personal dosimeters on the body, with or without shielding aprons, among radiation workers in Korea.Materials and Methods: We analyzed the survey data, which included demographic characteristics, such as sex, age, occupation, work history, and placement of the personal dosimeter being worn, from a cohort study of Korean radiation workers. We assessed the use of personal dosimeters among workers, stratified by sex, age, working period, starting year of work, and occupation.Results and Discussion: Overall, high compliance (89.1% to 99.0%) with the wearing of dosimeters on the chest was observed regardless of workers’ characteristics, such as age, sex, occupation, and work history. However, the placement of dosimeters, either under or over the shielding aprons, was inconsistent. Overall, 40.1% of workers wore dosimeters under their aprons, while the others wore dosimeters over their aprons. This inconsistency indicates that radiation doses are possibly measured differently under the same exposure conditions solely owing to variations in the placement of worn dosimeters.Conclusion: Although a lack of uniformity in dosimeter placement when wearing a shielding apron may not cause serious harm in radiation dose management for workers, the development of detailed guidelines for dosimeter placement may improve the accuracy of dose assessment.
A Role of Cellulose Binding Module of the Thermophilic Endoglucanase TbCel12A
Authors: Kuntothom Teerachai , Phetsom Jirapa , Chuncher Sunanta , Ketudat Cairns James R.
Published: September 2023

Endoglucanases are enzymes that play an important role in hydrolysis of lignocellulose by attacking glycosidic linkages in cellulose fibers and other glucans. The cellulose binding module (CBM) is responsible for binding the enzyme to the substrate. However, CBMs in certain enzymes interfere with substrate hydrolysis resulting in moderate or low activity. In a previous study, the processive endoglucanase TbCel12A including its CBM had low activity towards carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). To assess the effect of the CBM, the catalytic domain of TbCel12A was produced without the CBM. The TbCel12A catalytic domain without the CBM hydrolyzed CMC 23 times more rapidly, while the pH and temperature optima and thermotolerance remained unchanged compared to full-length TbCel12A. Therefore, TbCel12A does not require the CBM for CMC hydrolysis and its application may be improved without it.
Child maltreatment: qualitative review of theoretical and methodological trends in intervention programs with an attachment perspective
Authors: Bedoya Gallego Diana Marcela , Jiménez Pérez Laura Carolina , González Gaviria Maria Alejandra , Russo de Vivo Ana Rita , Palacio Sañudo Jorge Enrique
Published: September 2023

This review provides a qualitative comparative analysis of theoretical and methodological aspects of 27 studies in which the results of the implementation of programs involved in child maltreatment are presented with an attachment perspective. The studies were examined following the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network. It was found that the programs promote the development of maternal sensitivity, mentalization or reflective functioning and empathy, however, the underlying mechanisms are not differentiated according to the type of abuse to intervene. Likewise, it was found that despite the recognition of the mother's violent childhood experiences as one of the main predisposing factors for child abuse, it is a variable that is scarcely considered in the programs examined. These findings indicate the importance of developing intervention programs that consider a cumulative ecological risk perspective
Comprensión colaborativa de tablas de frecuencias según simetría/asimetría de competencia y de género
Authors: Castellaro Mariano , Roselli Néstor
Published: September 2023

Este artículo es expresión de la confluencia de dos líneas socio constructivistas: los estudios sobre interacción entre pares y los estudios sobre procesos de apropiación de sistemas externos de representación. El objetivo es analizar la influencia de la simetría/asimetría de competencia y de género sobre la interacción diádica involucrada en la comprensión colaborativa de una tabla de frecuencias en estudiantes de sexto y séptimo grado. Se trata de un estudio cuasi experimental de solo postes, con dos variables independientes. La primera, la simetría/asimetría de competencia, definida por la igualdad o diferencia entre los niveles individuales de comprensión de la tabla (básico o avanzado) de los compañeros de diada: ambos sujetos de competencia básica (simetría básica), ambos sujetos de competencia avanzada (simetría avanzada), un sujeto de competencia básica con un sujeto de competencia avanzada (asimetría). La segunda, la simetría/asimetría de género, definida por la igualdad o diferencia de genero entre los compañeros de diada: niña-niña, niño-niño y mixta. La variable dependiente es la propia interacción socio cognitiva involucrada en la comprensión colaborativa de tablas de frecuencia. Participaron 240 estudiantes de sexto y séptimo grado (120 diadas), seleccionados de manera no probabilística. Pertenecían a cuatro escuelas de gestión oficial del sur de la provincia de Santa Fe (Argentina), con una edad media de 12,26 años (SD=0,64) y distribuidos equitativamente según género (49,2 % niñas y 50,8 % niños). Cada diada resolvió? 12 ítems de elección múltiple; cada uno de estos evaluaba un aspecto de la comprensión de la tabla. La interacción colaborativa fue analizada a partir de un sistema de categorías mutuamente excluyentes y exhaustivas, pertenecientes a tres dimensiones: aportes dirigidos a la resolución de la tarea, aportes dirigidos a la organización de la resolución de la tarea y aportes organizativos generales. La conclusión más firme es que las variaciones más marcadas de la interacción socio cognitiva son generadas por la simetría/asimetría de competencia específica, específicamente, por los aportes socio cognitivos dirigidos directamente a la resolución de la tarea, lo cual condice con la literatura previa. En lo que respecta a la simetría/asimetría de género, los hallazgos sugieren efectos diferenciadores mucho menos marcados que los registrados por la simetría/asimetría de competencia, lo cual es coincidente con los antecedentes más recientes.
Прогнозирование высокотемпературной реологической деформации
и длительной прочности вязкопластического материала по образцу-лидеру
Authors: Радченко Владимир Павлович , Radchenko Vladimir Pavlovich , Афанасьева Елена Андреевна , Afanaseva Elena Andreevna , Саушкин Михаил Николаевич , Saushkin Mikhail Nikolaevich
Published: September 2023

Предложен и реализован метод прогнозирования ползучести и длительной прочности в условиях вязкого механизма разрушения.
Вводится предположение, что у материала при нагружении отсутствуют мгновенно-пластическая деформация и первая стадия ползучести, выполняется гипотеза несжимаемости.
В разработанном методе показано, что если для заранее испытанного образца (образец-лидер) известны кривая ползучести при постоянном напряжении и время до ее разрушения, то для получения диаграммы реологического деформирования и длительной прочности материала при других уровнях напряжений достаточно знать лишь начальную минимальную скорость деформации ползучести (в начальный момент времени) образцов для этих уровней напряжений.
Выполнена проверка адекватности разработанного метода экспериментальным данным для ряда сплавов в условиях растяжения и кручения образцов.
Показано, что результаты прогнозирования не зависят от выбора образца-лидера из ряда образцов, испытанных при различных напряжениях.
Результаты исследования показывают, что с помощью разработанного метода возможно не только прогнозирование кривых ползучести и длительной прочности (в асимптотической постановке), но и оптимальное планирование экспериментальных исследований для получения серии стационарных кривых ползучести при постоянных напряжениях.
Оценка поля скоростей в сплошной упругопластической среде при камуфлетном взрыве
Authors: Седнев Владимир Анатольевич , Sednev Vladimir A. , Копнышев Сергей Львович , Kopnyshev Sergey Lvovich , Седнев Анатолий Владимирович , Sednev Anatoly V.
Published: September 2023

В работе представлено решение центрально-симметричной задачи определения поля скоростей в сплошной упругопластической среде при камуфлетном взрыве в предположениях о бесколебательном характере движения камуфлетной полости и несжимаемости среды в пластической и упругой областях. Получены зависимости для определения размеров зон расширения и пластического деформирования среды. В основу решения положено «камуфлетное уравнение» - соотношение для определения давления на контактной поверхности расширяющейся сферической полости за счет внутреннего давления.
Race, class, and the democratic project in contemporary South African education: Working and reworking the law
Authors: Soudien Crain
Published: September 2023

Democratization of the South African education system was significantly advanced by the South African Schools Act (SASA) promulgated in 1996. SASA gave parents the power to direct the course and substance of their children’s education in important ways. The circumstances of its origination, however, left in place crucial features of the country’s apartheid education system. Central among these were white parent’s rights to determine their schools’ admission and language policies. In this contribution I explore the tensions over democratic principles experienced by the South African government in correcting SASA to manage parents’ control over these key school policies. I do so through a critical engagement with the positions that have emerged in the process currently underway to consider the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill (BELA). I argue these positions represent a struggle in play over whether the future South African school system will be marked by ongoing and new forms of race and class domination.