bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The EIF4E1-4EIP cap-binding complex of Trypanosoma brucei interacts with the terminal uridylyl transferase TUT3
Authors: Falk Franziska , Kamanyi Marucha Kevin , Clayton Christine
Published: November 2021

Most transcription in Trypanosoma brucei is constitutive and polycistronic. Consequently, the parasite relies on post-transcriptional mechanisms, especially affecting translation initiation and mRNA decay, to control gene expression both at steady-state and for adaptation to different environments. The parasite has six isoforms of the cap-binding protein EIF4E as well as five EIF4Gs. EIF4E1 does not bind to any EIF4G, instead being associated with a 4E-binding protein, 4EIP. 4EIP represses translation and reduces the stability of a reporter mRNA when artificially tethered to the 3’-UTR, whether or not EIF4E1 is present. 4EIP is essential during the transition from the mammalian bloodstream form to the procyclic form that lives in the Tsetse vector. In contrast, EIF4E1 is dispensable during differentiation, but is required for establishment of growing procyclic forms. In Leishmania, there is some evidence that EIF4E1 might be active in translation initiation, via direct recruitment of EIF3. However in T. brucei, EIF4E1 showed no detectable association with other translation initiation factors, even in the complete absence of 4EIP. There was some evidence for interactions with NOT complex components, but if these occur they must be weak and transient. We found that EIF4E1is less abundant in the absence of 4EIP, and RNA pull-down results suggested this might occur through co-translational complex assembly. We also report that 4EIP directly recruits the cytosolic terminal uridylyl transferase TUT3 to EIF4E1/4EIP complexes. There was, however, no evidence that TUT3 is essential for 4EIP function.
Establishment of the TBX-code reveals aberrantly activated T-box gene TBX3 in Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Nagel Stefan , Meyer Corinna
Published: November 2021

T-box genes encode transcription factors which control basic processes in development of several tissues including cell differentiation in the hematopoietic system. Here, we analyzed the physiological activities of all 17 human T-box genes in early hematopoiesis and in lymphopoiesis including developing and mature B-cells, T-cells, natural killer (NK)-cells and innate lymphoid cells. The resultant expression pattern comprised six genes, namely EOMES, MGA, TBX1, TBX10, TBX19 and TBX21. We termed this gene signature TBX-code which enables discrimination of normal and aberrant activities of T-box genes in lymphoid malignancies. Accordingly, expression analysis of T-box genes in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients using a public profiling dataset revealed overexpression of EOMES, TBX1, TBX2, TBX3, TBX10, TBX19, TBX21 and TBXT while MGA showed aberrant downregulation. Analysis of T-cell acute lymphoid leukemia patients indicated aberrant overexpression of six T-box genes while no deregulated T-box genes were detected in anaplastic large cell lymphoma patients. As a paradigm we focused on TBX3 which was ectopically activated in about 6% of HL patients analyzed. Normally, TBX3 is expressed in tissues like lung, adrenal gland and retina but not in hematopoiesis. HL cell line KM-H2 expressed enhanced TBX3 levels and was used as an in vitro model to identify upstream regulators and downstream targets in this malignancy. Genomic studies of this cell line showed focal amplification of the TBX3 locus at 12q24 which may underlie its aberrant expression. In addition, promoter analysis and comparative expression profiling of HL cell lines followed by knockdown experiments revealed overexpressed transcription factors E2F4 and FOXC1 and chromatin modulator KDM2B as functional activators. Furthermore, we identified repressed target genes of TBX3 in HL including CDKN2A, NFKBIB and CD19, indicating its respective oncogenic function in proliferation, NFkB-signaling and B-cell differentiation. Taken together, we have revealed a lymphoid TBX-code and used it to identify an aberrant network around deregulated T-box gene TBX3 in HL which promotes hallmark aberrations of this disease. These findings provide a framework for future studies to evaluate deregulated T-box genes in lymphoid malignancies.
Rapid PCR-based method for herbivore dietary evaluation using plant-specific primers
Authors: Kheirodin Arash , Sayari Mohammad , Schmidt Jason M.
Published: November 2021

Polyphagous pests cause significant economic loss worldwide through feeding damage on various cash crops. However, their diets in agricultural landscapes remain largely unexplored. Pest dietary evaluation in agricultural fields is a challenging task currently approached through visual observation of plant feeding and microscopic identification of semi-digested plant material in pest’s guts. While molecular gut content analysis using metabarcoding approaches using universal primers (e.g., rbcl and trnL) have been successful in evaluating polyphagous pest diet, this method is relatively costly and time-consuming. Hence, there is a need for a rapid, specific, sensitive, and cost-effective method to screen for crops in the gut of pests. This is the first study to develop plant-specific primers that target various regions of their genomes, designed using a whole plant genome sequence. We selected Verticillium wilt disease resistance protein (VE-1) and pathogenesis related protein-coding genes 1–5 (PR-1-5) as our targets and designed species-specific primers for 14 important crops in the agroecosystems. Using amplicon sizes ranging from 115 to 407 bp, we developed two multiplex primer mixes that can separate nine and five plant species per PCR reaction, respectively. These two designed primer mixes provide a rapid, sensitive and specific route for polyphagous pest dietary evaluation in agroecosystems. This work will enable future research to rapidly expand our knowledge on the diet preference and range of crops that pests consume in various agroecosystems, which will help in the redesign and development of new crop rotation regimes to minimize polyphagous pest pressure and damage on crops.
A novel approach for the purification of aggregation prone proteins
Authors: Royster Austin , Mir Sheema , Mir Mohammad Ayoub
Published: November 2021

The protein aggregation is one of the major challenges of the biotechnological industry, especially in the areas of development and commercialization of successful protein-based drug products. The inherent high aggregation tendency of proteins during various manufacturing processes, storage, and administration has significant impact upon the product quality, safety and efficacy. We have developed an interesting protein purification approach that separates the functionally active protein from inactive aggregates using a detergent concentration gradient. The C-terminally His tagged nucleocapsid protein of Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) has high aggregation tendency and rapidly precipitates upon purification by NiNTA chromatography. Using the new purification approach reported here, the freshly purified protein by NiNTA chromatography was further processed using a detergent gradient. In this new purification approach the active protein is retained in the low detergent concentration zone while the inactive aggregates are promptly removed by their rapid migration to the high detergent concentration zone. The method prevented further aggregation and retained the RNA binding activity in the native protein despite numerous freeze thaw cycles. This simple approach prevents protein aggregation by rapidly separating the preformed early aggregates and creating the appropriate microenvironment for correctly folded proteins to retain their biological activity. It will be of potential importance to the biotechnological industry and other fields of protein biochemistry that routinely face the challenges of protein aggregation.
A contraction approach to dynamic optimization problems
Authors: Sandal Leif K. , Kvamsdal Sturla F. , Maroto José M. , Morán Manuel
Published: November 2021

An infinite-horizon, multidimensional optimization problem with arbitrary yet finite periodicity in discrete time is considered. The problem can be posed as a set of coupled equations. It is shown that the problem is a special case of a more general class of contraction problems that have unique solutions. Solutions are obtained by considering a vector-valued value function and by using an iterative process. Special cases of the general class of contraction problems include the classical Bellman problem and its stochastic formulations. Thus, our approach can be viewed as an extension of the Bellman problem to the special case of nonautonomy that periodicity represents, and our approach thereby facilitates consistent and rigorous treatment of, for example, seasonality in discrete, dynamic optimization, and furthermore, certain types of dynamic games. The contraction approach is illustrated in simple examples. In the main example, which is an infinite-horizon resource management problem with a periodic price, it is found that the optimal exploitation level differs between high and low price time intervals and that the solution time paths approach a limit cycle.
Validating a model of architectural hazard visibility with low-vision observers
Authors: Liu Siyun , Liu Yichen , Kersten Daniel J. , Shakespeare Robert A. , Thompson William B. , Legge Gordon E.
Published: November 2021

Pedestrians with low vision are at risk of injury when hazards, such as steps and posts, have low visibility. This study aims at validating the software implementation of a computational model that estimates hazard visibility. The model takes as input a photorealistic 3D rendering of an architectural space, and the acuity and contrast sensitivity of a low-vision observer, and outputs estimates of the visibility of hazards in the space. Our experiments explored whether the model could predict the likelihood of observers correctly identifying hazards. In Experiment 1, we tested fourteen normally sighted subjects with blur goggles that simulated moderate or severe acuity reduction. In Experiment 2, we tested ten low-vision subjects with moderate to severe acuity reduction. Subjects viewed computer-generated images of a walkway containing five possible targets ahead—big step-up, big step-down, small step-up, small step-down, or a flat continuation. Each subject saw these stimuli with variations of lighting and viewpoint in 250 trials and indicated which of the five targets was present. The model generated a score on each trial that estimated the visibility of the target. If the model is valid, the scores should be predictive of how accurately the subjects identified the targets. We used logistic regression to examine the correlation between the scores and the participants’ responses. For twelve of the fourteen normally sighted subjects with artificial acuity reduction and all ten low-vision subjects, there was a significant relationship between the scores and the participant’s probability of correct identification. These experiments provide evidence for the validity of a computational model that predicts the visibility of architectural hazards. It lays the foundation for future validation of this hazard evaluation tool, which may be useful for architects to assess the visibility of hazards in their designs, thereby enhancing the accessibility of spaces for people with low vision.
Methods for assessing seasonal and annual trends in wasting in Indian surveys (NFHS-3, 4, RSOC & CNNS)
Authors: Johnston Robert , Dhamija Gaurav , Kapoor Mudit , Agrawal Praween K. , Wagt Arjan de
Published: November 2021

Wasting in children under-five is a form of acute malnutrition, a predictor of under-five child mortality and of increased risk of future episodes of stunting and/or wasting. In India, national estimates of wasting are high compared to international standards with one in five children found to be wasted. National surveys are complex logistical operations and most often not planned or implemented in a manner to control for seasonality. Collection of survey data across differing months across states introduces seasonal bias. Cross-sectional surveys are not designed to collect data on seasonality, thus special methods are needed to analyse the effect of data collection by month. We developed regression models to estimate the mean weight for height (WHZ), prevalence of wasting for every month of the year for an average year and an overall weighted survey estimates controlling for the socio-demographic variation of data collection across states and populations over time. National level analyses show the mean WHZ starts at its highest in January, falls to the lowest in June/August and returns towards peak at year end. The prevalence of wasting is lowest in January and doubles by June/August. After accounting for seasonal patterns in data collection across surveys, the trends are significantly different and indicate a stagnant period followed by a decline in wasting. To avoid biased estimates, direct comparisons of acute malnutrition across surveys should not be made unless seasonality bias is appropriately addressed in planning, implementation or analysis. Eliminating the seasonal variation in wasting would reduce the prevalence by half and provide guidance towards further reduction in acute malnutrition.
Environmental safety evaluation of geopark based on CPTED concept and fuzzy comprehensive analysis
Authors: Chen Guoyi , Zhang Shangmin , Yan Bangquan , Miao Shengzhen
Published: November 2021

In recent years, with the increasingly popular and openness of Geoparks, Environmental safety has become a major concern for sustainable geo-tourism. It is therefore necessary to conduct an environmental safety performance evaluation for promoting geo-tourism development. In order to identify and figure out the factors influencing the tourists’ environmental safety perception, an index system was established based on six principles of Crime Prevention Through environment design (CPTED) theory. A Questionnaire was adopted for data collection, and the overall evaluation value and concrete index scores at all levels were obtained via the fuzzy comprehensive analysis and Importance-Performance analysis. Empirical results show that: (1) tourists’ perception of environmental safety performance in Shilin Park from high to low was: image and maintenance, Natural Surveillance, territoriality, Access control, Activity support and target hardening; (2) The sub-factors influencing tourists’ safety perception mostly include electronic monitoring device, Lighting system, Public safety management, Road layout, environmental sanitation; While attention should be paid on the following aspects including park service center, inter-personal surveillance, surrounding environment, unobstructed view, parking lot, Signpost, for they are considered as high-importance items with relatively poor performance. Based on the analysis, three optimization measures were proposed, including optimizing the layout and design of each space, strengthening the deterrent force of the park and maintaining a good environmental image. This research provides useful suggestions for Geopark decision-makers on determining the priority of Geopark spatial planning and management, as well as achieving the optimal allocation of resources to promote the sustainable development of Geopark.
Augmented proximity: Integration of physical and virtual proximity to enhance network connectivity
Authors: Chang Mi , Lee Ji-Hyun
Published: November 2021

With the continuing increase in online communications, virtual proximity as well as physical proximity has become a common way to connect individuals. Virtual proximity refers to the psychological closeness felt by people based on their participation in a virtual space. Hence, augmenting physical proximity with virtual types is believed to enhance connectivity within social networks, and applications that consider both types have the capability to provide new forms of interaction. However, despite the importance of their coexistence, these proximity concepts have been studied separately or are being integrated using diverse terminologies that often lead to misunderstandings. Furthermore, although some applications reflect the two proximity types (e.g., location-based services), there is no metric of comparison. This paper proposes the concept of augmented proximity (AP), which combines physical and virtual forms into a network analogous to one of mixed reality (MR). The concept provides a clear distinction between physical and virtual proximity using a single quantitative value. Using this concept, a formal taxonomy is established to compare and evaluate AP-based networks. The taxonomy consists of three dimensions that can be analyzed using graph theory, including the extent of connectivity degree, diffusion effect, and extent of perceived closeness. Furthermore, using the services underlying AP-based network, the proposed taxonomy can be applied to evaluate the suitability of the services as an indicator for comparison. The results show that one of the two services has a higher taxonomy-based value, and a reasonable basis for selecting one based on proximity is established. This study suggests that AP will play an important role as a quantitative indicator in developing and comparing applications that consider proximity in both virtual and physical modes.
Core genes involved in the regulation of acute lung injury and their association with COVID-19 and tumor progression: A bioinformatics and experimental study
Authors: Sen’kova Aleksandra V. , Savin Innokenty A. , Brenner Evgenyi V. , Zenkova Marina A. , Markov Andrey V.
Published: November 2021

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a specific form of lung damage caused by different infectious and non-infectious agents, including SARS-CoV-2, leading to severe respiratory and systemic inflammation. To gain deeper insight into the molecular mechanisms behind ALI and to identify core elements of the regulatory network associated with this pathology, key genes involved in the regulation of the acute lung inflammatory response (Il6,Ccl2,Cat,Serpine1,Eln,Timp1,Ptx3,Socs3) were revealed using comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of whole-genome microarray datasets, functional annotation of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), reconstruction of protein-protein interaction networks and text mining. The bioinformatics data were validated using a murine model of LPS-induced ALI; changes in the gene expression patterns were assessed during ALI progression and prevention by anti-inflammatory therapy with dexamethasone and the semisynthetic triterpenoid soloxolone methyl (SM), two agents with different mechanisms of action. Analysis showed that 7 of 8 revealed ALI-related genes were susceptible to LPS challenge (up-regulation:Il6,Ccl2,Cat,Serpine1,Eln,Timp1,Socs3; down-regulation:Cat) and their expression was reversed by the pre-treatment of mice with both anti-inflammatory agents. Furthermore, ALI-associated nodal genes were analysed with respect to SARS-CoV-2 infection and lung cancers. The overlap with DEGs identified in postmortem lung tissues from COVID-19 patients revealed genes (Saa1,Rsad2,Ifi44,Rtp4,Mmp8) that (a) showed a high degree centrality in the COVID-19-related regulatory network, (b) were up-regulated in murine lungs after LPS administration, and (c) were susceptible to anti-inflammatory therapy. Analysis of ALI-associated key genes using The Cancer Genome Atlas showed their correlation with poor survival in patients with lung neoplasias (Ptx3,Timp1,Serpine1,Plaur). Taken together, a number of key genes playing a core function in the regulation of lung inflammation were found, which can serve both as promising therapeutic targets and molecular markers to control lung ailments, including COVID-19-associated ALI.
The architecture of the simian varicella virus transcriptome
Authors: Braspenning Shirley E. , Verjans Georges M. G. M. , Mehraban Tamana , Messaoudi Ilhem , Depledge Daniel P. , Ouwendijk Werner J. D.
Published: November 2021

Primary infection with varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes varicella and the establishment of lifelong latency in sensory ganglion neurons. In one-third of infected individuals VZV reactivates from latency to cause herpes zoster, often complicated by difficult-to-treat chronic pain. Experimental infection of non-human primates with simian varicella virus (SVV) recapitulates most features of human VZV disease, thereby providing the opportunity to study the pathogenesis of varicella and herpes zoster in vivo. However, compared to VZV, the transcriptome and the full coding potential of SVV remains incompletely understood. Here, we performed nanopore direct RNA sequencing to annotate the SVV transcriptome in lytically SVV-infected African green monkey (AGM) and rhesus macaque (RM) kidney epithelial cells. We refined structures of canonical SVV transcripts and uncovered numerous RNA isoforms, splicing events, fusion transcripts and non-coding RNAs, mostly unique to SVV. We verified the expression of canonical and newly identified SVV transcripts in vivo, using lung samples from acutely SVV-infected cynomolgus macaques. Expression of selected transcript isoforms, including those located in the unique left-end of the SVV genome, was confirmed by reverse transcription PCR. Finally, we performed detailed characterization of the SVV homologue of the VZV latency-associated transcript (VLT), located antisense to ORF61. Analogous to VZV VLT, SVV VLT is multiply spliced and numerous isoforms are generated using alternative transcription start sites and extensive splicing. Conversely, low level expression of a single spliced SVV VLT isoform defines in vivo latency. Notably, the genomic location of VLT core exons is highly conserved between SVV and VZV. This work thus highlights the complexity of lytic SVV gene expression and provides new insights into the molecular biology underlying lytic and latent SVV infection. The identification of the SVV VLT homolog further underlines the value of the SVV non-human primate model to develop new strategies for prevention of herpes zoster.
THE RELATIONSHIP OF HEMOGLOBIN LEVELS, DELIRIUM AND COGNITIVE STATUS IN HOSPITALIZED GERIATRIC PATIENTS: RESULTS FROM THE CRIME STUDY
Authors: Brombo G. , Bianchi L. , Savino E. , Magon S. , Cherubini A. , Corsonello A. , Zuliani G. , Onder G. , Volpato S.
Published: November 2021

Objective: Delirium is a frequent clinical complication in geriatric patients admitted to the hospital, because of the simultaneous presence and synergistic effect of predisposing and precipitating factors. Also anaemia is a common concern in geriatric population. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between anaemia (precipitating factor) and delirium in a sample of Italian older hospitalized patients with different degree of cognitive impairment (predisposing factor). Design, setting, participants: Cross-sectional analysis of 1069 participants enrolled in the CRIME study, with assessment of hemoglobin levels at hospital admission. Measurements: Delirium was assessed using DSM-IV criteria, whereas cognitive status was categorized as dementia, cognitive impairment or normal, according to clinical history, specific treatment and MMSE score. Anaemia was defined according to sex-specific WHO criteria. The association of hemoglobin levels and delirium was investigated with multivariable logistic regression models. Results: Mean age of study participants was 81.4±7.2 years, 52.2% had prevalent anaemia, 6.1% had delirium. According to cognitive status 20.8% had dementia and 40.9% had cognitive impairment. Overall there was no association between anaemia and delirium. However, among patients with cognitive impairment (MMSE <24, no dementia) anaemia was significantly associated with the likelihood of delirium (p<0.006). Multivariate logistic regression analysis, adjusted for potential confounders, showed in these patients a graded increased risk of delirium according to anaemia severity with an almost six-fold increased risk of delirium in moderate-severe anaemia (OR 5.95, 95% CI:1.15-30.73). Conclusion: In older patients with cognitive impairment moderate-severe anaemia is independently associated with the likelihood of delirium. Further studies should investigate if anaemia correction would translate in delirium risk reduction.
BRIDGING THE TRANSLATION GAP: FROM DEMENTIA RISK ASSESSMENT TO ADVICE ON RISK REDUCTION
Authors: Anstey K.J. , Eramudugolla R. , Hosking D.E. , Lautenschlager N.T. , Dixon R.A.
Published: November 2021

Dementia risk reduction is a global health and fiscal priority given the current lack of effective treatments and the projected increased number of dementia cases due to population ageing. There are often gaps among academic research, clinical practice, and public policy. We present information on the evidence for dementia risk reduction and evaluate the progress required to formulate this evidence into clinical practice guidelines. This narrative review provides capsule summaries of current evidence for 25 risk and protective factors associated with AD and dementia according to domains including biomarkers, demographic, lifestyle, medical, and environment. We identify the factors for which evidence is strong and thereby especially useful for risk assessment with the goal of personalising recommendations for risk reduction. We also note gaps in knowledge, and discuss how the field may progress towards clinical practice guidelines for dementia risk reduction.
PROGRESS IN TREATMENT DEVELOPMENT FOR NEUROPSYCHIATRIC SYMPTOMS IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE: FOCUS ON AGITATION AND AGGRESSION. A REPORT FROM THE EU/US/CTAD TASK FORCE
Authors: Soto M. , Abushakra S. , Cummings J. , Siffert J. , Robert P. , Vellas B. , Lyketsos C.G.
Published: November 2021

Background: The management of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) such as agitation and aggression is a major priority in caring for people with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Agitation and aggression (A/A) are among the most disruptive symptoms, and given their impact, they are increasingly an important target for development of effective treatments. Considerable progress has been made in the last years with a growing number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of drugs for NPS. The limited benefits reported in some RCTs may be accounted for by the absence of a biological link of the tested molecule to NPS and also by key methodological issues. In recent RCTs of A/A, a great heterogeneity design was found. Designing trials for dementia populations with NPS presents many challenges, including identification of appropriate participants for such trials, engagement and compliance of patients and caregivers in the trials and the choice of optimal outcome measures to demonstrate treatment effectiveness. The EU/US -CTAD Task Force, an international collaboration of investigators from academia, industry, non-profit foundations, and regulatory agencies met in Philadelphia on November 19, 2014 to address some of these challenges. Despite potential heterogeneity in clinical manifestations and neurobiology, agitation and aggression seems to be accepted as an entity for drug development. The field appears to be reaching a consensus in using both agitation and aggression (or other NPS)-specific quantitative measures plus a global rating of change for agitation outcomes based on clinician judgment as the main outcomes.
Simulação Neutrônica do Núcleo de um Reator Nuclear do Tipo iPWR Usando o Código SERPENT
Authors: Cecilia Betancourt Mariana , Rojas Mazaira Leorlen , García Hernández Carlos Rafael , Dominguez Dany , Brayner de Oliveira Lira Carlos Alberto
Published: November 2021

A energia nuclear é uma das principais alternativas para futuras fontes de energia sem emissões de gases contribuintes ao efeito estufa. Neste contexto os reatores nucleares modulares de pequeno porte têm grande potencial de desenvolvimento. Nesta categoria, por suas características de segurança e semelhanças com os reatores atuais em operação, destacam-se os reatores integrais de água pressurizada (iPWR). Neste trabalho, é apresentado um modelo computacional neutrônico baseado no código Monte Carlo Serpent para o projeto e análise de um ciclo de combustível estendido de quatro anos em um reator de tipo iPWR. Os principais parâmetros do comportamento neutrônico do núcleo são calculados e comparados com as recomendações para retores refrigerados a água.
ACG Clinical Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Katz Philip O. , Dunbar Kerry B. , Schnoll-Sussman Felice H. , Greer Katarina B. , Yadlapati Rena , Spechler Stuart Jon
Published: November 2021

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) continues to be among the most common diseases seen by gastroenterologists, surgeons, and primary care physicians. Our understanding of the varied presentations of GERD, enhancements in diagnostic testing, and approach to patient management have evolved. During this time, scrutiny of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) has increased considerably. Although PPIs remain the medical treatment of choice for GERD, multiple publications have raised questions about adverse events, raising doubts about the safety of long-term use and increasing concern about overprescribing of PPIs. New data regarding the potential for surgical and endoscopic interventions have emerged. In this new document, we provide updated, evidence-based recommendations and practical guidance for the evaluation and management of GERD, including pharmacologic, lifestyle, surgical, and endoscopic management. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system was used to evaluate the evidence and the strength of recommendations. Key concepts and suggestions that as of this writing do not have sufficient evidence to grade are also provided.
¿Por qué no pedir ayuda cuando la necesito? Obstáculos a la búsqueda de apoyos académicos institucionales (AAI) en universitarios chilenos
Authors: Lobos Guerrero Constanza , Gallardo Gonzalo , Valenuzela Jorge
Published: November 2021

Pese a la preocupación global de las universidades por desarrollar mecanismos de apoyo académico para sus estudiantes, dichos recursos no siempre son utilizados por quienes más lo necesitan. Este fenómeno representa el mayor desafío mundial de los servicios institucionales de apoyo académico. Esto también ocurre en Chile, donde la matrícula universitaria ha experimentado una sostenida masificación. Considerando aquello, resultó pertinente conocer la experiencia y percepciones de universitarios chilenos para identificar obstáculos al acceso y uso de los apoyos académicos institucionales. A partir de 25 entrevistas individuales a universitarios en distintas regiones (Metropolitana, Magallanes, Valparaíso y la Araucanía), un grupo focal en la Región Metropolitana y revisión de literatura pertinente, identificamos elementos que, desde la perspectiva estudiantil, limitarían la búsqueda de ayuda académica. Los resultados muestran obstaculizadores al acceso a los apoyos académicos en tres niveles: obstáculos de nivel cultural, asociados a mandatos sociales con incidencia en las disposiciones estudiantiles para pedir ayuda; barreras institucionales a la búsqueda de ayuda, ligadas a la gestión de los servicios, y limitantes individuales, provenientes desde experiencias previas y trayectorias de aprendizaje de los estudiantes. Finalmente, se discuten los resultados y se plantean desafíos de política educativa para el éxito de los apoyos académicos institucionales.
Zagłada zwierząt i ludzi. Lektura Poematu o miejskiej rzeźni Tadeusza Śliwiaka
Authors: Niesporek Katarzyna
Published: November 2021

Przedmiotem artykułu jest interpretacja Poematu o miejskiej rzeźni zapomnianego poety Tadeusza Śliwiaka. Poeta swoim utworem i postawieniem znaku równości pomiędzy rzeźnią a obozem koncentracyjnym, cierpieniem Żydów i zwierząt hodowlanych, wkroczył w temat, który współcześnie jest chętnie podejmowany. Próbując zrozumieć „pierwsze prawo wilka” i „ostatnie prawo człowieka”, uświadamia sobie, że granice pomiędzy „ludzkim” i „zwierzęcym” nie istnieją, że należy pogodzić się z obecną w człowieku animalistyczną częścią istnienia, nieuprawniającą go do uważania siebie za istotę nadrzędną. W obliczu wojny, śmierci, Zagłady wszyscy cierpią tak samo, zamiennie wchodzą w role katów i ofiar, a w ostatecznym rozrachunkustają się wobec siebie równi. stają się wobec siebie równi.
„Rzeka to nie ziemia, przyjmie wszystko”. Uwag kilka o przyrodniczych uwarunkowaniach Zagłady w Serbii
Authors: Giergiel Sabina
Published: November 2021

Celem tekstu jest pokazanie, że w Serbii (podobnie jak w innych krajach) Holokaust nie wydarzył się w środowiskowej próżni. Rozważania koncentrują się wokół obrazów literackich, w których ujawnia się relacja pomiędzy przyrodą a lokalizowaniem i funkcjonowaniem obozów oraz losem więźniów. Szczególne miejsce poświęcone zostaje rzece, która w literaturze serbskiej staje się ważnym toposem holokaustowym. Rzeka symbolizuje w niej najczęściej masowy grób, mur czy zasłonę, jak również (w warunkach zimowych) scenę. Wówczas najczęściej występuje w roli mimowolnego sprzymierzeńca nazistów. Jednak obok takiego rozumienia rzeki, w którym akcentowany jest bierny charakter przyrody, w literaturze serbskiej (i chorwackiej)odnaleźć można również obrazy, w których przedstawiona jest ona jako podmiot sprawczy. Występując w tej roli, przechodzi z drugiego planu (zwykle zarezerwowanego dla warunków przyrodniczych) na plan pierwszy i stawia opór tym, którzy zadają gwałt zarówno ofiarom, jak i przyrodzie.
Wyłom w antropocentryzmie i gatunkowizmie? Przemiany świadomości kulturowej na przykładzie relacji: człowiek – zwierzęce gatunki nie-ludzkie w drugiej połowie XIX wieku
Authors: Sobieraj Tomasz
Published: November 2021

Artykuł zawiera interpretację wybranych polskich tekstów popularnonaukowych i kulturalnych opublikowanych w drugiej połowie XIX wieku. Wszystkie były poświęcone relacjom: człowiek – zwierzęta nie-ludzkie oraz statusowi tych drugich w społeczeństwie ludzkim. Teksty te ukazują przemiany, jakim ulegała europejska świadomość kulturowa. Polegały one na stopniowym odrzuceniu myślenia antropocentrycznegooraz szowinizmu gatunkowego. Wszyscy autorzy protestowali przeciwko zadawaniu cierpienia i prześladowaniom zwierząt. Pod wpływem Darwina i rozwoju dziewiętnastowiecznego przyrodoznawstwa dokonywał się przełom w spojrzeniu na kondycję człowieka oraz jego związek ze zwierzętami. Choć nie bezoporów i trudności, zwierzęta zaczęto traktować jako żywe, podatne na cierpienia istnienia, które mają bogate życie psychiczne. Wielu uczonych i intelektualistów zaczęło kwestionować tradycyjny pogląd na status zwierząt nie-ludzkich, zdominowany przez antropocentryczne stereotypy.
Wdzięczność i ostrzeżenie? Rozważanie metodologiczne o nowej próbie bilansu historiografii PRL
Authors: Bugajewski Maciej
Published: November 2021

W niniejszym artykule podejmuję próbę lektury nowej monografii dotyczącej historiografii w okresie PRL napisanej przez Rafała Stobieckiego. Kluczowymi pojęciami książki są – w mojej opinii – wdzięczność i ostrzeżenie, wypowiadane łącznie. Autor pracuje w oparciu o szerokie rozumienie zakresu badań historii historiografii. Autor obejmuje interpretacją nie tylko (1) „badania nad infrastrukturą nauki historycznej”, do których zalicza instytucjonalnego wymiaru środowiska historyków, lecz również (2) przemiany założeń metodologicznych, na których były oparte badania historyczne w okresie PRL oraz (3) zasadnicze cechy reprezentacji przeszłości wypracowanych przez historiografię PRL-u. Autor książki kładzie nacisk na ostrzeżenie, wskazując na potrzebę oceny postaw historyków. Ja jednak skupiam uwagę na wdzięczności, bo w jej świetle można ukazać dokonania naszych poprzedników i ich zwycięstwa nad figurami próbującymi ich podporządkować.
Człowiek - zwierzę - rzecz w "Chłopach" Władysława Reymonta
Authors: Brzozowska Sabina
Published: November 2021

Powieść Reymonta sytuuje ludzi, zwierzęta, rośliny w jednym porządku – porządku natury. Jednak relacje pomiędzy ludźmi a zwierzętami mienią się ambiwalencjami. Z jednej strony dostrzec można somatyczną wspólnotę między kobietami a krowami, będącą podstawą współodczuwającej troski o innego i ujawniającą się w formach czułości. Z drugiej zaś strony powieść opisuje sceny spontanicznego i bezmyślnego okrucieństwa wobec przede wszystkim dzikich zwierząt: srok, zająców, żołny (oślepionej smołą) etc. oraz wyraźnej ich reifikacji (zwierzę-„mechaniczna” zabawka). Celem artykułu jest zatem opisanie złożonego i niejednoznacznego charakteru międzygatunkowych relacji.
Patyk, wróbel, czajnik. Witolda Gombrowicza Kosmos nie-ludzki. Między pre- a metapreposthumanistycznym podejściem do problemu
Authors: Gosk Hanna
Published: November 2021

Tekst proponuje lekturę Kosmosu (1965) W. Gombrowicza ujętą w perspektywie posthumanistycznej. Stawia tezę o pre- i meta-posthumanistycznych , tj. problematyzujących tę perspektywę postrzegania rzeczywistości, walorach powieści. Proponuje czytelnikowi spojrzenie na przekaz narratora utworu jak na „sprawozdanie” z nie do końca udanego, ale otwierającego nęcące perspektywy, eksperymentu, który polegał na usytuowaniu podmiotu ludzkiego w świecie, w którym rzeczy przezeń postrzegane i rzeczy realne okazują się „na chwilę” (a może od zawsze) częściami tego samego uniwersum bez formy i treści, wnętrza i zewnętrza, niepodlegającymi hierarchizowaniu w kategoriach podrzędności i nadrzędności, niemal na równi obdarzonymi mocą sprawczą, jeśli mówić o wprawianiu rzeczywistości w ruch (w sensie znaczeniotwórczym).
THE The Human and the Non-Human in Ze života hmyzu by the Brothers Čapek: Contexts, Scheme, Interpretation
Authors: Kudlová Klára
Published: November 2021

The study „The mutual engagement of human and insect sphere in Čapeks´ most-played drama“ attempts at a contextual perspective on the human and natural spheres of Čapeks celebrated „insect play“ (Ze života hmyzu). Summing up the potential thematic and structural influences on the play (such as L´Oiseau Bleu), the study uncovers the structure of the play (the mise-en-abyme and circular composition) and proves it to be one of the key interpretative tools for its understanding. The other analytical tools are derived from detailed evaluation of the figure of the Tramp (a universal human figure) and of the individual insect groups (types). In the final search for the core dynamics and the message of the play, the influence and legacy of Jean-Henri Fabre is recalled, alongside the authors´ own perspective.
Towards Producer-Consumer Cooperation: Collective Learning in Alternative Food Networks as a Food Sovereignty Practice
Authors: Popławska Magdalena
Published: November 2021

The paper analyses collective learning strategies aimed at the transformation of food systems in the framework of food sovereignty, in the context of such key issues as environmental sustainability, socially just relations in diversified economy, and citizen participation in food systems governance. In particular, the author proposes to focus on the systematisation created by Colin R. Anderson, Chris Maughan and Michel P. Pimbert on the basis of their qualitative and action research undertaken for the purpose of developing the European Agroecology Knowledge Exchange Network (EAKEN). The network is part of the broader process of knowledge circulation led by the La Via Campesina movement, which has introduced the concept of food sovereignty into wider public debates. The main objective of EAKEN is to strengthen bottom-up learning strategies and informal education processes in the field of agroecology, which is defined through reference to sustainable farming practices and their recognised transformative potential. The author considers the pillars of transformative agroecology learning identified by the above-mentioned researchers in combination with various approaches in social movement learning and critical pedagogy. The analysis recognises that the evolving concept of food sovereignty covers both rural and urban fields of activity, emphasising the connections between producers, workers, consumers and social activists. Consequently, this paper contributes to the discussion on the educational practices present in alternative food networks (AFNs). As studies indicate, although new AFNs in Poland are often inspired by initiatives created in Western Europe and USA, they adopt forms that depend on the local context. The analysis of learning strategies associated with such networks, taking into account different forms of power relations, as well as emerging opportunities and constraints, allows areas for future research to be identified.
Russische Orthodoxie zwischen „digitalem Antichrist“ und digitaler Eucharistie im Zeitalter der Coronavirus-Pandemie
Authors: Ponomariov Alexander
Published: November 2021

Während der Pandemie des Coronavirus haben sich in der zeitgenössischen russischen und in der unmittelbar an sie angrenzenden ukrainischen Orthodoxie zwei Tendenzen herauskristallisiert, die mit der zunehmenden Digitalisierung des Alltags zusammenhängen: zum einen die stark gewachsene Angst vor der totalen Kontrolle des Menschen durch den Staat und transnationale Konzerne – die Angst vor dem „digitalen Antichrist“ – und zum anderen die Kontroverse über die Möglichkeit einer digitalen Eucharistie. Diese scheint wiederum nur in Form einer hybriden Kommunion akzeptiert zu sein, bei der die im Voraus an die Gemeindemitglieder gelieferten offline geweihten Gaben mit der anschließenden Gebetsteilnahme an der live übertragenen Online-Liturgie kombiniert werden. Im Gegensatz dazu wird die digitale Konsekration von Brot und Wein vor einem Computerbildschirm nicht nur als theologisch fragwürdig, sondern vielmehr als Profanierung des christlichen Hauptsakraments angesehen.
Towards a Renewed Heart
Authors: Roberts Mikie
Published: November 2021

Heidi Campbell has identified three methods that were generally used by congregations in their response to how to engage in worship digitally due to the lockdown resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. In this article, the three models – transfer, translation, and transformation – are applied to the World Council of Churches and how it adapted its ecumenical prayer in March 2020. The paper highlights how digital worship has contributed to the renewal of prayer, which is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement.
Políticas educativas que enmarcan la educación dirigida a la población sorda e hipoacúsica en Costa Rica
Authors: Desueza Delgado Almitra
Published: November 2021

The education of deaf people is framed and supported by the laws that protect subjects with disabilities. This essay aims to highlight the repercussions of global, regional, and national policies that have guided the educational development of the deaf population in Costa Rica based on a bibliographic review, in which laws, international decrees, and regulations will be addressed. With them, the socio-political situation in which the education of this population is inserted will be analyzed, and the problem will be contextualized on global, Latin American, and national levels. The proposals revolve around the recognition of Costa Rican Sign Language (LESCO, for its acronym in Spanish) as a mother tongue and the possibilities in terms of educational methodologies, new teaching practices and the greater integration of the deaf community within their own education. For this, it is necessary to consider a systematization of the social and cultural advances involved with the deaf community, which allows a reflection on the education of deaf people.
Instrumento de medición de la competencia de comunicación a través de estrategias metacognitivas en estudiantado universitario
Authors: Vargas Schüler Augusto A. , Aguilar Bustos María B.
Published: November 2021

This paper reports the result of a first approach to the design and validation of an instrument which allows measuring some aspects that should be developed by a university student regarding communicative competence from a metacognitive perspective. The designed and validated instrument corresponds to a survey consisting of 26 questions piloted in a group of 100 students. The questions were grouped in four dimensions defined as knowledge, planining, monitoring/follow-up, and assesment. The result through factor analysis shows that these four components explain the 47% of the global variance, knowledge being the most relevant in that aspect. The Alpha Cronbach’s parameter is suitable to the instrument, presenting a numerical value of 0.876. The KMO sampling adequacy test has a numerical value of 0.787, also suitable for the instrument.
Pertinencia, implementación y efecto de las políticas educativas en el contexto neoliberal chileno. Revisión sistemática del discurso docente
Authors: Melo Moreno Pablo Andrés
Published: November 2021

The Chilean educational model responds to neoliberal principles, which have been consolidated through market logic. In this context, policies have been implemented to improve the educational system with teachers being responsible for carrying out policies in schools. The objective of this qualitative systematic review is to synthesize the teaching discourse regarding Chilean educational policies, for which 19 articles from journals indexed in Scopus, Scielo, and Redalyc were selected. The results show that the teaching discourse in the selected papers recognizes the partial relevance of elements of educational policies; however, their implementation responds to a market logic, which causes effects at the level of work overload, control, and excess of curricular content, all triggering in the precariousness of teaching working conditions and student learning. Finally, it is concluded that there is a need to continue systematizing information regarding the teaching discourse in this subject, incorporating complementary databases to those already analyzed, added to the need to investigate in greater depth regarding the teaching discourse regarding the structure and mechanisms of action of neoliberal educational policies.
Giro en la formación docente en República Dominicana: ¿avance o retroceso en esta reforma? Un vistazo desde los derechos humanos
Authors: Florentino Morillo Basilio
Published: November 2021

The essay analyzes the current reform of teacher training implemented in the Dominican Republic. It dispenses with content related to society’s legislation. This amendment promoted by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, which eliminates the subject on educational legislation, departs from the mandate of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Constitution of the Republic, the Law of Higher Education, Science and Technology, the General Law of Education, and the same spirit of the regulations that legalize said reform. A change of this nature leads to the generation of a deficit in citizen training, social coexistence, and democracy. Consequently, the Dominican society could be entering a probable distance from the construction of a social state of rights, where citizens know, defend, and practice their privileges and fulfill their duties.
Modeling of internally recycled material in fibreboard production facility as a tool for economic and environmental assessment
Authors: Vititnev Aleksandr , Marchenko Roman , Rubinskaya Anastasiya , Shishmareva Anna
Published: November 2021

A rationale is presented for the wood fibre process modeling of internally recycled content in fibreboard production. Experimental studies were employed to obtain mathematical dependences in order to confirm the possibility of reusing wood fibre at various stages of the technological process. A wood fibre process model of internally recycled content was accrued out in which each processing stage was presented separately. Two methods for the preparation of wood fibre for reuse in fibreboard production were considered. To assess the effectiveness of the technologies proposed, the process modeling of internally recycled content was assessed from an economic and environmental point of view.