bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“What If He Tells Others”: Negotiating Disclosure of Children’s HIV-Positive Status Amid Stigma in a South African Rural Community
Authors: Mashile Constance Thuli , Maake Tshepo B.
Published: October 2024

In this study, we explore how HIV-related social stigma in a South African rural township community informs parents’ and caregivers’ decisions to disclose their children’s HIV-positive status to them. To achieve the aim of the study, we conducted qualitative in-depth interviews with 12 parents and caregivers of HIV-positive children between the ages of seven and 14 years in a rural area based in Mpumalanga in South Africa. We found that, despite the development in HIV education across the country, HIV-related stigma is prevalent at a social level in rural townships and serves as a barrier to disclosing children’s HIV-positive status. We established that the parents and caregivers use “passing” as a stigma management strategy where they conceal their children’s HIV-positive status from them and instead tell them that they are infected with less stigmatised medical conditions such as asthma and tuberculosis. Based on these findings, we argue that, although education on HIV is widespread in South Africa, HIV-related stigma is still prevalent in some rural townships. This stigma compels parents and caregivers to avoid disclosing their children’s HIV-positive status to them and instead employ stigma management strategies that will maintain the concealment of their children’s HIV status.
Computation, Synthesis and NMR Investigations of PROTAC Linker Conformation, Chamaleonicity and their Impacts on the Mode of Action
Authors: Lan Hao , Hsia Oliver , Nakasone Mark , Wijaya Andre , Ciulli Alessio , Butts Craig , Aggarwal Varinder
Published: October 2024

Linker design is a core task in Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTAC) drug discovery, which influences ternary complex formation for selective target protein degradation as well as physicochemical properties. However, it remains challenging to accurately model the whole landscape towards the formation of ternary complex and understand the influence of linker rigidity/flexibility on each step in the working mechanism of PROTAC. To address this, we revisited a well-established system of the VHL-based BET degrader MZ1 and also explored the likely ternary complex of ARV771 with enhanced MD simulation, which explains for the first time the plasticity and selectivity of BET degradation with VHL E3-ligase. Regarding facile conformational change possibly induced by different linkers, the physics-driven modelling of ternary complex was applied to confirm and propose a highly cooperative and potent BET degrader HL1 which was shown to preferentially degrade BRD4 with a late onset of the hook-effect, similar to MZ1. A further novel PROTAC containing a semi-rigid fully sp3 linker, HL1CON, was developed to potentially stabilize the MZ1-type ternary complex similarly to HL1 and improve membrane permeability, but also appears to suffer from non-chameleonic hydrophobic collapse in different solutions as well as in VHL binary complexes. This resulted in significant barriers for HL1CON to get into cell, bind with either receptor and ultimately form cooperative and productive ternary complex. This study has demonstrated that rational PROTAC linker design is a multi-task object and the rigidification strategy with redundant hydrophobicity does not necessarily benefit degradation activity in our case. The comprehensive modelling of PROTACs in solution, binary complex and ternary complex states based on physics could help us to understand its complicated behaviors and reduce the risk in structure-based linker optimization.
Accelerating the Discovery of Abiotic Vesicles with AI-Guided Automated Experimentation
Authors: Ekosso Christelle , Liu Hao , Glagovich Avery , Nguyen Dustin , Maurer Sarah , Schrier Joshua
Published: October 2024

The first protocells are speculated to have arisen from the self-assembly of simple abiotic carboxylic acids, alcohols, and other amphiphiles into vesicles. To study the complex process of vesicle formation, we combined laboratory automation with AI-guided experimentation to accelerate the discovery of specific compositions and underlying principles governing vesicle formation. Using a low-cost commercial liquid handling robot, we automated experimental procedures, enabling high-throughput testing of various reaction conditions for mixtures of seven (7) amphiphiles. Multi-template Multi-scale Template Matching (MMTM) was used to automate confocal microscopy image analysis, enabling us to quantify vesicle formation without tedious manual counting. The results were used to create a Gaussian process surrogate model, and then active learning was used to iteratively direct the laboratory experiments to reduce model uncertainty. Mixtures containing primarily trimetyl decylammonium and decylsulfate in equal amounts formed vesicles at sub-millimolar critical vesicle concentrations, and that more than 20% glycerol monodecanoate prevented vesicles from forming even at high total amphiphile concentrations.
Context-Dependent Heterotypic Assemblies of Inherently Disordered Peptides
Authors: Qiao Yuchen , Zia Ayisha , Wu Grace , Liu Zhiyu , Guo Jiaqi , Chu Matthew , He Hongjian , Xu Bing , Wang Fengbin
Published: October 2024

Despite being ubiquitous within proteins and playing a crucial role in context-dependent interactions for protein functions, intrinsically disorder regions (IDRs), unlike structured motifs, are often overlooked for designing peptide assemblies. Here, we demonstrate using these regions for enabling context-dependent heterotypic assemblies of inherently disordered peptides (IDPs). We achieve this by attaching an aromatic segment to positively or negatively charged IDPs. While the same-charged peptides are unable to form assemblies on their own, mixing oppositely charged peptides creates nanofibers of heterotypic IDP assemblies. Cryo-EM analysis confirms the β-sheet arrangement within the ordered core of nanofibers, demonstrates conformational heterogeneity and a disorder-to-order continuum, and reveals unusual high volume density of hydrogen bonds between tyrosine and lysine e-amine. Additionally, this work demonstrates a post-assembly morphological change resulted from local conformational flexibility. While equal molar mixtures of the charged IDPs yield nanofibers, doubling the positively charged IDPs after assembly mainly produces bundles of nanofibers. Furthermore, reducing the number of aromatic amino acid residues reduces the bundle formation. Demonstrating context-dependent self-assembly of IDPs and revealing atomistic insights heterotypic assemblies of IDPs for the first time, this work illustrates a straightforward approach to enable heterotypic IDPs to self-assemble for the design of adaptive, multifunctional peptide nanomaterials.
Dearomative Alkylation of Heteroarenium Salts via Blue Light Enabled Homolytic C–C Bond Cleavage
Authors: Garayev Agshin , Drake Emma , Miliordos Evangelos , Karimov Rashad
Published: October 2024

Alkyl substituted nitrogen heterocycles are important building blocks in drug molecules, agrochemicals and materials. Herein we report a simple and efficient way to prepare such compounds by coupling alkylhalides with heteroarenium salts. Detailed experimental and computational studies indicate that this reaction goes through a radical coupling and avoids formation of undesired homocoupling of heteroarenium salts but recycling such dimers through C-C bond cleavage under blue light.
Distinguishing Potential Organic Biosignatures on Ocean Worlds from Abiotic Geochemical Products using Thermodynamic Calculations
Authors: Robare Jordyn , Shock Everett
Published: October 2024

The search for life in our solar system often involves efforts to detect organic molecules, which have been found on many extraterrestrial bodies, including planets, moons, meteorites, comets, and asteroids. These chemical signatures are not typically thought of as biosignatures because we know that organic synthesis can occur through abiotic processes. Therefore, development of methods for distinguishing biotic and abiotic biosignatures would enable interpretation of data collected from habitability and life-detection missions. Life on Earth harnesses energy-releasing reactions to power biosynthesis reactions, which often require energy. Using thermodynamic data, we can quantify the energy required for organic synthesis. If an organic molecule is detected in an abundance that is thermodynamically unstable, then it is possible that life coupled its synthesis to other energy-releasing reactions. On the other hand, if an organic molecule is detected in an abundance that is thermodynamically stable, then abiotic synthesis was plausible. This sorting framework can be applied to the search for life wherever we have geochemical data. One such example is Saturn’s moon Enceladus. Small compounds involving the elements that comprise the majority of biomass were detected by the Cassini spacecraft in the plume gas erupting from the subsurface ocean. Using Enceladus as an example, we demonstrate the utility of thermodynamic calculations for distinguishing biosignatures and show that organic synthesis is often favorable using the carbon sources available on Enceladus. While these results may lead us to conclude that hypothetical organic signatures on Enceladus are abiotic, this framework can be applied to other environments in the search for genuine biosignatures.
Proton Donors Influence Nitrogen Adsorption in Lithium-Mediated Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis
Authors: Azumah Victor , Kavalsky Lance , Viswanathan Venkatasubramanian
Published: October 2024

Lithium-mediated electrochemical ammonia synthesis (LiMEAS) has recently shown promise towards efficient electrochemical ammonia production. This process relies on the formation of a lithium nitride film which is sub- sequently protonated to release ammonia. Designing the electrolyte for this technology requires the selection of a proton donor. In this work, we perform a first-principles analysis to investigate the initial step of nitride formation considering 30 different proton donors (PD). As a baseline, modeling nitrogen on a lithium surface without a PD, we observe that N2 does not spontaneously dissociate on the lithium surface. However, explicitly introducing a PD into the system results in five unique recurring nitrogen config- urations on the lithium slab: (1) embedded, (2) adsorbed, (3) standing, (4) buried, and (5) transferred states. We show that these PD-induced states possess an elongated N-N bond and adsorb more strongly on lithium. Using charge analysis, we show that the charge transferred onto these states strongly correlates with the change in their bond length, a crucial parameter for nitrogen dissociation. These results suggest a more involved role of the PD in the initial stages of nitride formation, and motivate greater consideration for their impact on the LiMEAS pathway.
Application of Traditional Chinese Culture in Cross-Cultural English Education: A Case Study of the Maritime Silk Road in Guangdong Province
Authors: He Xinyu
Published: October 2024

The phenomenon of aphasia in Chinese culture is serious. The existing English teaching materials emphasize too much Western culture education and lack traditional Chinese cultural elements. Therefore, this paper takes the Guangdong Maritime Silk Road as an example to study the specific application of traditional Chinese culture in cross-cultural English education. This paper first summarizes the significance of cross-cultural integration into college English education and then points out the serious phenomenon of Chinese cultural aphasia. Next, the paper focuses on English education, using English textbooks as a starting point to explore and integrate strategies related to excellent traditional Chinese culture from the Guangdong Maritime Silk Road. By integrating traditional Chinese culture into business English classes (with the Guangdong Maritime Silk Road as an example), the study explores the influence of such cultural integration on students’ cross-cultural communication skills, cultural identity, and learning effects. The results showed that the P value of the experimental group and the control group was < 0.05, that is, cultural integration had a positive effect on improving the effect of cross-cultural English education. The overall scores and cultural confidence of the experimental group are higher than those of the control group, which proves that cross-cultural teaching has a positive effect on the improvement of students’ scores.
Analysis of an Output-Oriented Teaching Method in College English under the Second Language Acquisition Theory
Authors: Li Ying
Published: October 2024

In the context of economic globalization, English has become increasingly essential for students’ communication and professional activities, necessitating higher proficiency in speaking and listening. The theory of second language acquisition posits that college English teaching can purposefully guide students’ learning and facilitate unconscious language acquisition. By integrating an output-oriented teaching method, students are provided with opportunities to practice and apply English, thereby addressing the traditional issue of “separation of learning and use.” This paper examines the application value of the output-oriented teaching method in college English under the second language acquisition theory and proposes several strategies to enhance college English classroom teaching. The goal is to develop students’ linguistic competence and improve their practical English skills.
Research on the Construction and Development of Aesthetic Education Bases in Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Zhou Wei
Published: October 2024

In order to implement the national aesthetic education policy, it is essential to organically integrate relevant aesthetic education resources, promote interdisciplinary education, and carry out extracurricular practical activities centered on aesthetic education. Strengthening the foundation of aesthetic education theory, addressing practical challenges in the teaching process, and closely linking research with teaching will create a feedback loop that benefits drama education. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the construction strategies, resource advantages and disadvantages, and development of aesthetic education bases, offering countermeasures and suggestions for their construction in universities. It aims to provide a solid research foundation for the growth and development of aesthetic education bases in higher education institutions.
Exploration of the Current Situation and Mechanism Innovation of University Education Management under the New Situation
Authors: Xue Yuanfei , Sun Minna
Published: October 2024

In the new era, university education management should be oriented toward the cultivation of innovative talents and the construction of a comprehensive education system. It should develop capable and qualified higher-level talents in response to the social demand for talent application, thereby enhancing the overall educational competitiveness of universities and driving deep reforms in educational activities. However, in current educational practice, efficient educational management often focuses on curriculum development and cultural education, with insufficient attention paid to the development of students’ comprehensive literacy. The talent cultivation and education programs are not yet perfect. This article explores the current situation of university education management activities under the new situation and considers practical methods for innovating university education management mechanisms.
The Influence of Information Technology Investment on the Organizational Performance: The Moderating Role of External Environment
Authors: Shi Zhilin , Kwong Simon Choong Mun
Published: October 2024

In the information era, enterprises can enhance organizational performance through advanced information technology. Based on the resource-based view, this paper examines the mechanism by which information technology (IT) investment influences organizational performance, with the external environment as a moderating variable. Using 265 valid samples collected from agricultural enterprises in Shandong province, this study conducts an empirical test through partial least squares structural equation modeling. The results demonstrate that IT investment has a significant positive effect on organizational performance, and the external environment significantly moderates the relationship between IT investment and organizational performance. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the relationship between IT investment and organizational performance, enriches resource-based theory, expands the research framework on IT investment, and offers guidance for enterprises seeking sustainable growth.
Empirical Analysis of the ESG and Financial Performance: Evidence from Chinese Technology Enterprises
Authors: Cheung King San
Published: October 2024

To date, the concept of sustainable development has gained global attention from companies and investors. One important reason for this is the increasing interest of investors in incorporating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) elements into their investments. The purpose of this dissertation is to analyze the correlation between ESG factor performance and corporate financial performance in Chinese technology enterprises. Additionally, the study focuses on Internet and medical technology companies to ensure relevance. The findings of the study provide guidance on ESG investment and sustainability for both companies and individual investors.
Development Strategies for Z County E-sports Town in Chongqing: Integration of E-sports, Tourism, and Agriculture under New Policies
Authors: Li Yuan , Li Dexin , Wang Yang
Published: October 2024

Chongqing Z County E-sports Town was once included in the “first batch of sports and leisure characteristic town pilot project list” issued by the General Administration of Sports of China. After several years of development, the e-sports industry in Z County e-sports town has struggled with issues such as a limited market, low popularity, poor business performance, and a lack of income generation capabilities. These challenges have severely hindered the town’s development, resulting in its exclusion from the recent “Chongqing characteristic town list.” Under the requirements of new policies, it can no longer promote itself, attract investment, or undertake project construction under the name of a “characteristic town” and must undergo redevelopment. This paper employs case analysis and comparative investigation methods to conduct an in-depth empirical study on the development of Z County E-sports Town. It is proposed that under the new policy environment, the town should foster the deep integration of its existing e-sports industry and culture with tourism and agriculture, transforming Z County E-sports Town into a new characteristic tourist destination. The findings of this paper offer a reference for the development of similar towns facing stagnation and provide case support for the construction of tourist destinations featuring e-sports.
Current Situation of Digital Inclusive Finance in China
Authors: Li Yun
Published: October 2024

Inclusive finance is not only an innovation in financial service concepts but also an institutional arrangement to address the imbalance in social and economic development. Therefore, it is particularly necessary to study the current development status, development level, and challenges of inclusive finance and to conduct research on these issues. Overall, inclusive finance has demonstrated a positive momentum of development, but improvements are still needed in terms of market players, products and services, and the external ecosystem. China’s inclusive finance is still in its infancy, making it essential to accelerate its development and promote inclusive finance in the country.
Research on the High-Quality Development of Agricultural Supply Chain Financial Ecosystem Empowered by Science and Technology
Authors: Wang Chunhui , Zhang Qi'en
Published: October 2024

A systematic perspective on agricultural supply chain finance can offer fresh insights into its development. The high-quality development of the agricultural supply chain finance ecosystem is crucial for the comprehensive revitalization of rural areas and the realization of agricultural power. Based on the current state of development of this ecosystem, this paper identifies several bottlenecks, such as insufficient policy and technical support in the macro-environment system, weak incentives for independent circulation within the industrial environment system, and inadequate motivation for stakeholders to participate in the micro-environment system. To address these issues, this paper proposes that the visualization, digitalization, and authenticity characteristics of the “blockchain + Internet of Things” technology architecture can effectively resolve these bottlenecks. Additionally, targeted strategies are suggested to promote the high-quality development of the agricultural supply chain finance ecosystem.
Research on the Path of Transition from Financial Accounting to Management Accounting Under the Background of Big Data
Authors: Li Xiaoxia
Published: October 2024

Driven by the wave of big data, the traditional financial accounting model faces an urgent need for transformation, as it struggles to adapt to the complex requirements of modern enterprise management. This paper aims to explore the feasible path for transitioning enterprise financial accounting to management accounting in the context of big data. It first analyzes the limitations of financial accounting in the era of big data, then highlights the necessity of transitioning to management accounting. Following this, the paper outlines the various challenges that may arise during this transition and, based on the analysis, proposes a series of corresponding transition strategies. These strategies aim to provide theoretical support and practical guidance for enterprises seeking a smooth transition from financial accounting to management accounting.
Optimization of Skin Cancer Detection to Improve Accuracy with the Application of Efficient Convolutional Neural Network and EfficientNetB2 Models
Authors: Purbandanu Muhammad Wigig , Yanuarta Rizky , Kurniawan Arif
Published: October 2024

Skin cancer, related to ultraviolet light exposure, can be caused by genetic mutations in skin cells. Risk factors include family history, fair skin, moles, weak immunity and solar keratosis. Diagnosis involves skin examination and biopsy. Previous studies using Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) successfully classified skin cancer with an accuracy of up to 99%. The process of developing an image classification model involves structured steps. The dataset is divided into training, validation, testing. Data augmentation is performed with ImageDataGenerator to enrich the dataset. CNN model (EfficientNetB2) was customized, trained for 50 epochs. Evaluation of testing data model, metrics such as loss, accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. Visualization of Classification Reports, Confusion Matrix. The entire process ensured in-depth analysis of the model's performance and focused attention on prediction. The study used Kaggle's secondary data "HAM10000 Preprocessed Data" with 11644 data and three attributes, showing variations before normalization. The CNN model peaked at the 8th epoch with 86% accuracy, but there is a risk of overfitting. Evaluation using Classification Report and Confusion Matrix provides details of model performance on each skin cancer class, supporting diagnosis and treatment.This article highlights the positive impact of using the EfficientNetB2 Model on skin cancer detection through an efficient Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). The model is optimal in size and structure, resulting in superior feature representation. Evaluations including Classification Report and Confusion Matrix demonstrate the model's superiority in classifying skin cancer types, particularly in the ''akiec'' and ''bcc'' classes, with high accuracy, significantly improving detection performance.
Incidence of hospital-acquired infections among healthcare workers in Egypt before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Elhabashy Sameh , Moawad Amen , Gaber Shreen
Published: October 2024

Background: Hospital-acquired infection is higher among healthcare workers (HCWs) than among other occupational groups, and the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated its incidence. Aim: To assess the incidence of hospital-acquired infections among HCWs in, Cairo, Egypt, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This retrospective cohort study collected and evaluated data on hospital-acquired infections (excluding COVID-19) from 1660 nurses, physicians, technicians, and housekeepers in 6 hospitals in Cairo Governorate, Egypt, 1 year before and 1 year during the COVID-19 pandemic. The data were analysed using SPSS version 21.0 and descriptive and inferential statistics were used to test the magnitude and direction of relationships between the variables. Results: The rate of hospital-acquired infections was 3.1% before and 1.3% during the COVID-19 pandemic. There was a significantly lower risk of hospital-acquired infection among the HCWs during the pandemic than before it. Incidence was highest among housekeepers (10.6%), and physicians had the highest relative risk (4.33). Before the pandemic, pneumonia was the most common hospital-acquired infection (20.8%) among HCWs, while hepatitis C was the most common (8.3%) during the pandemic. The most significant predictors of hospital-acquired infection were COVID-19 (before and during the pandemic), working area and profession. Conclusion: There was a significant reduction in hospital-acquired infections among HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic, attributed to increased adherence to infection prevention and control measures. Housekeepers, nurses and emergency department workers were at higher risk, indicating the need for further investigations among these groups of HCWs to understand the contributing factors and design targeted interventions to lower the risks and incidence.
Prevalence of probable post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors of the 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye
Authors: Aslan Banu , Önal Özgür
Published: October 2024

Background: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most prevalent conditions following a devastating earthquake or disaster. Aim: To explore the prevalence of probable PTSD and its risk factors among earthquake survivors in Türkiye. Methods: This cross-sectional study examined 1100 survivors, aged ≥ 18 years, in 11 provinces of Türkiye affected by the 2 June 2023 earthquakes. We collected the data 5 months after the earthquakes and measured PTSD using the PTSD checklist for the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders fifth edition (DSM-5), the Connor-Davidson resilience scale, and multidimensional scale of perceived social support. We analysed the data using SPSS version 28. Results: The earthquake survivors were aged 18–89 years, mean age 35.59 years, and more than half of them were female (58.8%). Prevalence of probable PTSD was 55.2%. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that prevalence of probable PTSD was predicted by female gender, current smoking, sleep disturbance, chronic disease, being trapped under the rubble, loss of a first-degree relative, post-earthquake sheltering in a tent or container or someone else’s house, high postearthquake anxiety, and low socioeconomic status. Survivors with high psychological resilience had lower probable PTSD prevalence. Conclusion: Prevalence of PTSD was high among our participants and psychological resilience seemed to be a mitigating factor for PTSD. There is therefore a need to focus on improving psychological resilience among earthquake survivors to prevent or minimise PTSD.
Availability and affordability of selected medicines in the Islamic Republic of Iran
Authors: Ghanbari Amir Reza , Moazen Mohammad , Azizi Arezou , Abdollahiasll Akbar , Soleymani Fatemeh
Published: October 2024

Background: There is a standard methodology for measuring and evaluating the availability and affordability of selected medicines in the healthcare system, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Aim: To investigate availability, affordability and accessibility of medicines in the Islamic Republic of Iran in 2021 and compare the results with those from 2019. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study investigated the availability and affordability of 60 selected medicines in Islamic Republic of Iran. Availability and affordability were measured using the WHO/Health Action International methodology. Results: The availability rates for originator brands in the public, private and other sectors were 6.4%, 8.6% and 6.8%, respectively. In contrast, availability rates for lowest-priced and most-sold generics were 44.7% and 63.6% in the public sector, 45.4% and 66.4% in the private sector, and 39.6% and 58.6% in other sectors. Only 20.0% of originator brands in the Islamic Republic of Iran were affordable, while 96.6% of the lowest priced and 95.0% of the most sold generics were affordable. Conclusion: Most medicines in the Islamic Republic of Iran were affordable and the pharmaceutical supply chain was acceptable.
Recreational Pole Dancing in Lebanon
Authors:   ,   Lebanese American University -- Chouran Beirut, Chazbeck Yara
Published: October 2024

Recreational pole dancing, distinct from pole dancing that takes place in gentlemen's strip clubs, is constructed as a fitness activity in gyms and dance studios, an art form, and a type of dancing that is no different than other forms of dancing using a prop. There has been an ongoing feminist debate on the nature of pole dancing; whether it is a sexualizing activity that objectifies women or whether it is an embodying experience that promotes sexual empowerment, autonomy, positive body image, and diversity. Due to its stigmatization and association with sex work, recreational pole dancing may create controversy in Arab countries. The activity may be perceived as "inappropriate" in conservative Arab societies. Therefore, this study aims to explore the nature of pole dancing in Lebanon through a gendered and cultural lens, applying a feminist qualitative methodology, and standpoint theory. Hence, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 7 pole dance practitioners in Lebanon to explore their lived experiences and investigate how pole dancing have impacted different aspects of their lives. This study indicates that recreational pole dancing is linked to an increased feeling of wellbeing, an expression of alternative femininities and masculinities, confidence, body-esteem, and attachment to an empowering pole community. The latter also act as the main motives for Lebanese polers’ participation in pole. Other findings include pole dancing impacting polers’ work life and relationships, in both positive and negative aspects. Finally, Lebanese polers report facing stigmatization, mainly degrading and sexualizing comments offline and online, losing friendships and compromised marriage prospects. Despite the stigma, polers actively chose to disclose their pole practice publicly and reeducate people’s sensibilities on seeing semi-naked bodies on a pole.
Citrate is a circulatory exercise factor that promotes resilience to stress and has antidepressant properties in male mice
Authors:   ,   Lebanese American University -- Chouran Beirut, El Zoghby Yara
Published: October 2024

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) represents a leading cause of disability globally as estimated by the World Health Organization, with 320 million individuals afflicted. Conventional interventions such as pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy are commonly employed. However, environmental factors involving nutrition and physical activity have been demonstrated to influence MDD progression. Metabolites secreted during exercise, including beta-hydroxybutyrate and lactate, exhibit antidepressant properties and confer resilience against chronic stress. This study aimed to elucidate whether citrate, a Krebs cycle intermediate released into systemic circulation by exerting musculature, may serve as a novel prophylactic and therapeutic approach for MDD. Using a murine model of males and the Chronic Social Defeat Stress (CSDS) paradigm to induce depressive-like behaviors, we evaluated citrate's potential protective and antidepressant-like effects. Findings suggest citrate may promote resilience to stress and reverses depressive-like behaviors in male mice.
Power-Sharing Systems and International Support: Lebanon and the Lebanon Crisis Response Plan
Authors:   ,   Lebanese American University -- Chouran Beirut, Said El Jbeily Ziad
Published: October 2024

This study seeks to examine the constraints associated with consociational powersharing in the context of developing state capacities through internationally sponsored aid programs. It analyzes the Lebanese state's role in implementing international aid through the Lebanese Crisis Response Plan. The primary focus of this research is to ascertain the limitations of decision-making within the consociational state, with particular emphasis on themes of fragmentation and immobilism and their impact on aid implementation effectiveness. By studying the Lebanese Crisis Response Plan, a collaborative initiative to support Lebanon during the Syrian conflict, this research aims to shed light on how consensus-building among the elite inhibits the development of state capacities. By exploring the challenges encountered during the program's implementation within the framework of the consociational Lebanese state, this study aims to provide insights into the potential barriers to effective state operations within the context of power-sharing arrangements.
Características productivas y tecnológicas de la fibra de alpacas Suri del Centro Experimental Chuquibambilla, Puno
Authors: Arizaca Luna Percy Fernando , Calsin Calsin Bilo
Published: October 2024

This study seeks to determine the productive and technological characteristics of Suri alpaca fiber at the Chuquibambilla Experimental Center. Samples were taken from 110 alpacas during the 2022 shearing campaign, analyzed in the laboratory of INIA’s Quimsachata Experimental Station. The results showed a dirty fleece weight of 2118.64 ± 387.82 g, similar until four years and with a significant decrease from five years (P ≤ 0.05). The average wick length was 88.00 ± 16.13 mm, also similar up to four years. The mean fiber diameter (DMF) was 20.61 ± 0.33 μm, increasing with age (P ≤ 0.05), and the standard deviation of the DMF (DSDMF) was 4.74 ± 0.08 μm, with an age-related increase (P ≤ 0.05). The coefficient of variation of the DMF was 23.06%, with no significant differences between ages (P > 0.05). The comfort factor (HR) was 94.27%, decreasing with age (P ≤ 0.05). Fineness at yarn (FH) averaged 20.46 ± 0.37 μm, increasing with age (P ≤ 0.05), and the curvature index was 15.24 ± 0.37 °/mm, with a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05). It is concluded that age influences the technological characteristics of the fiber, with positive and negative correlations of high magnitude between the variables analyzed.
Language Education for Development: Enhancing Regional Banks' Performance through Illocutionary Speech Act Mastery in Indonesia
Authors: Sunendar Dadang , Erlina Erlina , Sundari Sri , Hardini Tri Indri , Maulana Cepri , Sunendar Neidya Fahma
Published: October 2024

This study aims to explain how language plays a significant role in improving the performance of regional development banks in Indonesia. The method used was qualitative with a questionnaire instrument involving 6 regional development banks in Indonesia. Some of the main findings are 24 statements were found, 19 of which fall into 5 categories, namely assertive illocutionary speech acts, directive illocutionary speech acts, expressive illocutionary speech acts, commissive illocutionary speech acts, and declarative illocutionary speech acts. In its implementation, the process emphasizing the humanistic approach scored over 90%. By prioritizing language training initiatives that emphasize the mastery of illocutionary speech acts, regional banks in Indonesia can expect improved operational efficiency, strengthened customer relationships and a more strategic approach to communication, contributing to the overall development and success of the banking sector. This study is limited to the context of only one type of bank, the regional development bank. It is further suggested that there is a strong need to provide adequate and timely capacity building for the employees of regional development banks, particularly in language training as part of public service and satisfaction development.
Linguistic Intelligence: Improving Writing Ability through Mind Mapping of Project Based Learning
Authors: Widiastuti Ni Putu Kusuma , Putrayasa Ida Bagus , Pujawan I Gusti Ngurah , Widiana I Wayan
Published: October 2024

The survey results show that students have low writing skills. One of the contributing factors is that students have difficulty developing ideas from writing, which causes the writing process to be slow. Apart from that, passive learning activities also have an impact on students' writing abilities. Based on this, the aim of this research is to analyze the influence of the Mind Mapping-based Project Based Learning (PjBL) Model on students' writing abilities. This type of research is quasi-experimental research (quasi-experimental) using a 2 x 2 factorial design. The population in this research is grade IV elementary school students, totaling 9 schools. The total sample size was 160 students. The sampling technique uses a simple random sample. The data collection method in research uses test and non-test methods. The technique used to analyze data is inferential statistics. The results of the research are that the writing ability of the group of students who were given the Mind Mapping -based Project Based Learning Model was greater than the group of students with low linguistic intelligence, the writing ability of the group of students who were given the Conventional Learning Model, after controlling for language knowledge. It was concluded that the Project Based Learning (PjBL) Model based on Mind Mapping can improve students' writing skills. The implication of this research is that the application of the Project Based Learning (PjBL) Model based on Mind Mapping can stimulate students' learning and stimulate students' thinking skills so that it has an impact on improving students' writing skills.
Students' Abilities in Reading Infographics Text in Junior High Schools
Authors: Retnaningtyas Nina , Damaianti Vismaia Sabariah , Mulyati Yeti , Sastromiharjo Andoyo
Published: October 2024

Infographic text is a visual text in the form of a combination of images, graphics, illustrations, and typography that serves to facilitate readers in understanding information. Therefore, infographic text is presented with an attractive appearance by increasing the number of illustrations and a little text. The widespread use of infographic text in every aspect of life today requires everyone to have adequate ability to read infographic text. Therefore, in this study the author conducted research on the ability of junior high school students to read infographic texts. The method used in this research is quantitative descriptive method. The object of the research is students of Class VIII of Junior High School in one of the districts in Central Java province. The results showed that the ability to read infographic texts of junior high school students in one of the districts in Central Java still needs to be improved. It can be seen from the low score obtained in doing infographic text questions. There are several efforts that teachers can make to improve students' ability to read infographic texts, namely by increasing visual literacy, improving reading skills, providing knowledge about infographics, and providing practice reading infographic texts.
Insights from a State Islamic University on Arabic Education as a Catalyst for Religious Moderation in Indonesia
Authors: Yasmadi Yasmadi , Husna Ilya , Arsya Fajriyani , Rahmah Azizah , Kustati Martin , Perrodin David D.
Published: October 2024

This research aims to investigate the integration of religious moderation in Arabic language learning at a state Islamic university. Employing a qualitative descriptive method, data was gathered through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The study emphasizes a tourism-based approach that incorporates local wisdom and pluralism into the Kalam course, aimed at enhancing students' Arabic communication skills. The findings indicate that embedding religious moderation within the Arabic curriculum promotes tolerance, inclusivity, and a moderate outlook among students, which, in turn, contributes to social and religious harmony in Indonesia. Additionally, the research highlights the importance of local cultural contexts in shaping student behavior. The study suggests further exploration of internal and external factors that influence the implementation of religious moderation in Arabic education at a state Islamic university. It also recommends adopting a mixed-method approach in future research to gain a deeper understanding of these dynamics and enhance the effectiveness of religious moderation efforts.
Multilingualism, Technology, and Religious Moderation in Indonesian Islamic Boarding Schools
Authors: Subair Muh. , Syamsurijal Syamsurijal , Rismawidiawati Rismawidiawati , Idham Idham , Muslim Abu , Nur Muhammad
Published: October 2024

Communities that can speak more than one language as a daily habit are not only happening in the present era but have long existed in the pesantren environment. However, multilingualism in pesantren is often only seen as a capacity enhancement of the santri's knowledge. On the other hand, the multilingual ability of the Santri is an asset in forming an attitude of religious moderation. This article then presents the results of qualitative research using the concept of additive multilingualism which focuses on pesantren students in Indonesia. Through observations, interviews, and literature review, this research can describe the reality of multilingualism in pesantren and its impact on the religious attitudes of its santri. It turns out that the religious moderation attitude of the students is closely related to the multilingual learning process in pesantren that takes place with technological restrictions. The application of additive multilingualism is aligned with the pillars of religious moderation in four ways. First, respect for locality is reflected in the Santri's habit of using local languages. Second, multilingualism is an expression of anti-violence, this is reflected in Santri's acceptance of linguistic and ethnic diversity as a brotherhood base. This is what manifests in the Third pillar by making santri a tolerant community as a result of learning from the reality of ethnic and linguistic diversity in their environment.  Fourth, the introduction of santri to foreign languages is directed to reaffirm their national commitment through the use of foreign languages in flag ceremonies. The limitation of technology in multilingual learning is also intended to keep students from the bad influence of technology and to maintain the discipline of students in maintaining a pesantren culture that is friendly to locality and sensitive to the times
Socio-cultural and Social Constructivist Theories and Its Application in EFL Classroom for Thai Pre-service Teachers: A Review for Further Research
Authors: Nithideechaiwarachok Bussayarat , Chano Jiraporn , Cheng Wu Chin
Published: October 2024

Socio-cultural and social constructivist theories are crucial in learning and education. This article aims to inform readers about socio-cultural and social constructivist theories and to present their application in language classrooms. The body of knowledge in this article was synthesized from journal articles and books concentrating on the theories that are significant in preparing pre-service teachers in EFL classrooms. The article begins with an overview of socio-cultural theory involving mediation, activity theory, cooperative learning activities, and scaffolding. Then, the article explains the social constructivist theory and its application in EFL classrooms. The final part of the article sheds light on suggestions and future research.
Research of creep parameters of VVER reactor steel 15Kh2NMFA-A AT temperatures of 500 – 1200°C
Authors: Terentyev E. V. , Marchenkov A. Yu. , Loktionov V. D. , Lyubashevskaya I V. , Chuprin D. V. , Borodavkina K. T. , Sviridov G. B.
Published: October 2024

The paper is devoted to the study of the creep characteristics of 15Kh2NMFA-A vessel steel in the temperature range of 500 – 1200 °C, which can be achieved during emergency operating conditions of VVER-type nuclear reactors. An analysis of the creep curves of the 15Kh2NMFA-A steel in the studied temperature range obtained during specimens tensile tests was carried out with the construction of the parametric Larson – Miller relationship. It is shown that in the temperature range of 600 – 850 °C the generalized Larson – Miller temperature dependence has a changed slope, resulting in a high error in estimating the time to fracture of 15Kh2NMFA-A steel under creep conditions in this temperature range. To reveal the reasons for the change in creep resistance in the specified temperature range, the studies of the metal microstructure using optical and scanning electron microscopy on specimens in the initial state and after creep testing were carried out. Studies of the microstructure of steel have shown that in the temperature range of 600 – 700 °C, coagulation of V(CN) type carbonitrides occurs, leading to a change in the slope of the Larson – Miller parametric relationship. It is shown that in the temperature range of Ac1 – Ac3 there is an abrupt change in creep characteristics associated with phase transformations. The feasibility of dividing the Larson – Miller parametric relationship into several sections depending on temperature, taking into account structural changes in the steel, is substantiated, which makes it possible to increase the accuracy of estimating the destruction time of 15Kh2NMFA-A steel by at least an order of magnitude. Based on the results of the study, a calculated dependence of the long-term strength of steel on temperature was obtained on a basis of 6,24 and 120 hours.
Computational and experimental substantiation of the application of hybrid functions of the first kind in the mechanics of deformation and fracture
Authors: Markochev V. M.
Published: October 2024

A mathematical definition of the concept of «hybrid function of the first kind» (GF1) is given, which provides a smooth controlled transition from one basic mathematical function to another and contains the characteristic features of these two functions. The transition is controlled both by the place of transition and by its speed. At the same time, the transition remains smooth and differentiable. The functions of GF1 are characterized by the coincidence of the arguments of both the basic functions and the argument of the control complex that is part of GF1. Vectors and tensors, as well as complex numbers and functions, can be used as basic functions. Based on GF1, it is possible to design chain GF1 or CGF1, which is essential for expanding the range of GF1 applications. GF1 itself can be used as basic functions. Hybrid functions have a surprisingly high potential for approximating experimental data. The article provides examples of using GF1 to approximate curves in relation to two-parameter crack resistance criteria. An algorithm for eliminating the singularity in calculations for crack resistance is described. Based on GF1, new probability distribution functions of statistical data are proposed. The possibility of qualitative analytical approximation by CGF1 of existing statistical data with subsequent differentiation of the obtained CGF1 to obtain the density of their distribution is shown. An attempt has been made to use GF1 to describe the phenomenon of bifurcation.