Diverse Contexts Research Articles

In search of maximum non-overlapping codes

AbstractNon-overlapping codes are block codes that have arisen in diverse contexts of computer science and biology. Applications typically require finding non-overlapping codes with large cardinalities, but the maximum size of non-overlapping codes has been determined only for cases where the codeword length divides the size of the alphabet, and for codes with codewords of length two or three. For all other alphabet sizes and codeword lengths no computationally feasible way to identify non-overlapping codes that attain the maximum size has been found to date. Herein we characterize maximal non-overlapping codes. We formulate the maximum non-overlapping code problem as an integer optimization problem and determine necessary conditions for optimality of a non-overlapping code. Moreover, we solve several instances of the optimization problem to show that the hitherto known constructions do not generate the optimal codes for many alphabet sizes and codeword lengths. We also evaluate the number of distinct maximum non-overlapping codes.

A Culturally Responsive Narrative Retell Approach for Stuttering in the RSK Region

The present study investigates a tailored narrative retelling approach adapted for individuals experiencing stuttering in the RSK region, with a particular emphasis on addressing cultural responsiveness at the level of assessment tools. Initial findings emphasize the need for assessment tools that are both culturally and linguistically attuned. Positive participant reactions to culturally responsive interventions highlight their effectiveness. Proficient responses affirm the positive impact of cultural and linguistic adaptation, while participants are categorized as Emerging and Minimal points to specific areas requiring intervention. The retelling task and thematic analysis of interview questions offer a comprehensive framework, revealing the demand for more refined assessment tools. This research provides valuable insights for developing inclusive interventions in diverse cultural contexts, laying a foundation for future research and advancements in the RSK region.

Housing movement coalitions in the United States: Trends from big networks among urban civil society leaders

Coalitions of formal housing, civil rights and anti-poverty organisations play an important role in urban housing movements. However, the extent and dynamics of these ‘housing movement coalitions’ are not well understood. In this article, I document the geography of housing movement coalitions across 148 US cities using leadership networks among 11.8 million civic leaders. I show that cohesive coalitions of formal housing, civil rights and anti-poverty leaders exist in a wide range of US cities, including in conservative states. In terms of change, housing coalitions have only grown in a handful of politically liberal cities since the global financial crisis, and most housing coalitions have stagnated and some have declined. Finally, change score regression models indicate that economic insecurity is associated with housing coalition emergence, but municipal austerity and hostile political environments may weaken the opportunities for coalitions to expand. These findings suggest movement scholars should widen their focus to include housing coalitions in more diverse contexts, and more closely examine how municipal funding shapes housing coalitions and their relationship to grassroots activism.

The making of anti-nuclear Scotland: activism, coalition building, energy politics and nationhood, c.1954-2008

ABSTRACT This article contributes to understanding how civil nuclear power shaped post-war British history through studying opposition to nuclear energy in Scotland. Over the second half of the twentieth century, pessimistic assessments challenged the optimism that had developed during the 1950s. Under devolution, Scottish administrations have used planning policies to block future nuclear generating plants, institutionalising a marked distinction with the rest of the UK. The origins of these differences are traced to anti-nuclear protests and the growth of a social movement coalition that linked anti-nuclear activism with growing public sentiment and electoral politics, particularly through the Scottish National Party (SNP). Reflections from oral history interviews are used to examine diverse local protest contexts supplemented by archives from the anti-nuclear movement and the SNP. During the 1970s, protests against Torness power station in East Lothian and the drilling of test bores for waste disposal in South Ayrshire were given a national orientation by SNP politicians. Over the course of the 1980s, the anti-nuclear coalition broadened through growing opposition to Torness and in response to the Chernobyl disaster. These changes encouraged a lasting symbiosis between pro-devolution and anti-nuclear sentiments which were subsequently embodied in policies pursued by devolved administrations during the 2000s.

Analysis of the Impact of Monetary Policy on the Housing Market

Monetary policy, a pivotal tool in macroeconomic management, wields significant influence over the intricate interplay of supply and demand within the housing market. This study aims to dissect the repercussions of monetary policy on this crucial dynamic. By synthesizing insights and case studies from diverse global contexts, and employing a spectrum of analytical models, this article endeavor to elucidate the outcomes stemming from both expansive and restrictive monetary approaches. Notably, the ebb and flow of interest rates instigate distinctive effects on housing supply and demand. This research scrutinizes the intricate relationship between monetary policy and the real estate market. Under loose monetary conditions, a surge in home purchases is anticipated, paralleled by an expansion in real estate investments by astute investors. Conversely, as monetary policy tightens, the propensity to buy homes wanes, with a corresponding contraction in investment activity. This shift inevitably reverberates through the real estate sector, precipitating a discernible downturn.

Using Big Data Approach to Create a Treebank of Informal and Formal Indonesian

This research presents a comprehensive Big Data Approach that was utilized to create a Treebank of Informal and Formal Indonesian (TINTA). The study focuses on the dynamic spectrum of language usage in Indonesia. It incorporates extensive data collection, preprocessing, and annotation strategies to construct a dual-tiered corpus encompassing formal and informal linguistic expressions. Through leveraging advanced computational techniques, the creation of TINTA aims to capture the nuanced variations in Indonesian language structures across diverse contexts. This annotated treebank provides a valuable resource for advancing Natural Language Processing (NLP) applications and linguistic research endeavors by facilitating more profound insights into the grammatical intricacies and semantic nuances prevalent in informal and formal Indonesian language.

A Qualitative Study on Problem and Challenges Involved in Multitasking

The purpose of this study to identify why is difficult for the employees to do Multi tasking in manufacturing plant. In our fast-paced and interconnected world, individuals often find themselves engaged in various tasks simultaneously, a phenomenon commonly known as multitasking. This qualitative study aims to delve into the intricate web of problems and challenges associated with multitasking, shedding light on the cognitive, emotional, and social aspects that individuals grapple with in their daily lives. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, this research seeks to uncover the nuanced experiences of individuals engaged in multitasking across diverse contexts, such as work, education, and personal life. The study will explore the cognitive load imposed by multitasking, investigating how individuals manage and allocate their attention across different tasks. Additionally, the emotional impact of multitasking will be examined, considering stress, fatigue, and the potential effects on overall well-being.

Comparative analysis of habitat suitability for a crop and its primary insect herbivore: providing insights for crop planting and pest management strategies

Habitat suitability analysis using species distribution models (SDMs) presents a valuable approach for determining appropriate land utilization strategies and crop planting decisions, which are vital to achieve optimal agricultural productivity and ensure environmental sustainability in the context of rapid global change. Aside abiotic conditions, pests emerge as the most important biological factor affecting crop growth. It can be an effective avenue to comprehensively assess land use suitability by building and integrating SDMs for both crops and their pests. Using the MaxEnt model and a bivariate map, we predicted and integrated the habitat suitability of tea (Camellia sinensis) and its primary insect herbivore (Empoasca onukii) in China. Our study explicitly revealed spatial heterogeneity in suitability between the two species, despite finding that they shared common environmental predictors (i.e., temperature, elevation, and soil pH). Results support South China and Southwest China as the most favorable areas for tea cultivation, while highlighting the adverse climatic challenges on tea growth in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and in the northern regions of the Yangtze River. Meanwhile, analyses emphasize the necessity of sustainable leafhopper management strategies in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and in regions along the southeast coast. These findings demonstrate the significance of comparative analysis on the habitat suitability of both crops and insect herbivores, providing valuable insights for agricultural production planning and sustainable pest management. Furthermore, the methods employed in this study hold potential for the application in diverse context, ranging from the control of invasive species to the conservation of endangered biodiversity.

Similar and different? A cross-cultural comparison of the prevalence, course of and factors associated with suicidal thoughts and behaviors in first-episode psychosis in Chennai, India and Montreal, Canada.

Data from high-income countries (HICs) show a high risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) in first-episode psychosis (FEP). It is unknown, however, whether rates and associated factors differ in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We therefore aimed to compare the 2-year course of STBs and associated factors in persons with FEP treated in two similarly structured early intervention services in Chennai, India and Montreal, Canada. To ensure fit to the data that included persons without STBs and with varying STBs' severity, a hurdle model was conducted by site, including known predictors of STBs. The 2-year evolution of STBs was compared by site with mixed-effects ordered logistic regression. The study included 333 FEP patients (168 in Chennai, 165 in Montreal). A significant decrease in STBs was observed at both sites (OR = 0.87; 95% CI [0.84, 0.90]), with the greatest decline in the first 2 months of follow-up. Although three Chennai women died by suicide in the first 4 months (none in Montreal), Chennai patients had a lower risk of STBs over follow-up (OR = 0.44; 95% CI [0.23, 0.81]). Some factors (depression, history of suicide attempts) were consistently associated with STBs across contexts, while others (gender, history of suicidal ideation, relationship status) were associated at only one of the two sites. This is the first study to compare STBs in FEP between two distinct geo-sociocultural contexts (an HIC and an LMIC). At both sites, STBs reduced after treatment initiation, suggesting that early intervention reduces STBs across contexts. At both sites, for some patients, STBs persisted or first appeared during follow-up, indicating need for suicide prevention throughout follow-up. Our study demonstrates contextual variations in rates and factors associated with STBs. This has implications for tailoring suicide prevention and makes the case for more research on STBs in FEP in diverse contexts.

Cultural Correlates of Adult Attachment Dimensions: Comparing the US and Turkey

Mainstream attachment literature has chiefly employed WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich and Democratic) samples, yet cross-cultural studies investigating attachment dynamics outside of Western world corroborated universality of the basic tenets of attachment theory and normativity of attachment security. Importantly, these studies revealed country-level differences in the prevalence of insecure attachment tendencies. Of note, this line of work bears the limitation of reducing culture to country and relying on the individualism versus collectivism dichotomy. The present study offers a novel examination of individual-level links between distinct cultural mindsets and distinct attachment orientations. We investigated two community samples ( NTurkey = 368, NUSA = 350) from two diverse cultural contexts by employing an assorted battery of cultural value measures, including both overt and covert measures of cultural indicators. Results revealed distinct relationships between attachment anxiety and the interdependent mindset and attachment avoidance and the independent mindset in both cultural contexts. Findings are discussed in light of cultural implications.

Exploring the complexities of 1C metabolism: implications in aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

The intricate interplay of one-carbon metabolism (OCM) with various cellular processes has garnered substantial attention due to its fundamental implications in several biological processes. OCM serves as a pivotal hub for methyl group donation in vital biochemical reactions, influencing DNA methylation, protein synthesis, and redox balance. In the context of aging, OCM dysregulation can contribute to epigenetic modifications and aberrant redox states, accentuating cellular senescence and age-associated pathologies. Furthermore, OCM's intricate involvement in cancer progression is evident through its capacity to provide essential one-carbon units crucial for nucleotide synthesis and DNA methylation, thereby fueling uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor development. In neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, perturbations in OCM pathways are implicated in the dysregulation of neurotransmitter synthesis and mitochondrial dysfunction, contributing to disease pathophysiology. This review underscores the profound impact of OCM in diverse disease contexts, reinforcing the need for a comprehensive understanding of its molecular complexities to pave the way for targeted therapeutic interventions across inflammation, aging and neurodegenerative disorders.

The Impact of Demographic Factors on Information Communication Technology Use: A Case of Mathematics Teachers in Kathmandu District

The use of information and communication technology (ICT) is an important issue for teaching learning activities due to global changes; however, the success of this use depends on the readiness of the teachers. This study investigated the effect of demographic variables on the use of ICT among secondary-level mathematics teachers in the Kathmandu district. This study describes a research hypothesis testing the absence of statistically significant differences in ICT use based on demographic variables such as gender, age, marital status, teaching experience, educational level, job position, and school location. For quantitative research, an online survey design was used. The data were collected through a validated online survey questionnaire, which consisted of seven demographic variables and seven items on the use of ICT. The online survey questionnaire was administered to 287 subjects. The response of mathematics teachers was only 59.23%. The response data was downloaded into Excel and cleaned. Frequency, percentage, independent sample t-tests, and one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the cleaned data using the JAMOVI software. The results revealed no statistically significant differences in ICT use across demographic variables. Specifically, gender, marital status, age groups, teaching experience, educational level, job positions, and school locations did not significantly affect the use of ICT among secondary-level mathematics teachers. The small effect sizes limited practical significance, despite the absence of statistical significance. The findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between demographic factors and ICT integration in education. Further research should validate these results in diverse educational contexts in Nepal.

Leaking my face via payment: Unveiling the influence of technology anxiety, vulnerabilities, and privacy concerns on user resistance to facial recognition payment

As biometric identification techniques for authentication continue to gain prominence, the demand for mobile payment systems employing facial recognition payment (FRP) in diverse business contexts has increased significantly. Leveraging the antecedent-privacy concern-outcome (APCO) model, this study constructs a comprehensive research framework for FRP and subjects it to examination through an online survey involving 1058 Chinese users. The study's results reveal that technology anxiety exhibits significant relationships with technology, provider, legal, and user vulnerabilities. However, it is noteworthy that technology anxiety does not exert an influence on privacy concerns. Conversely, technology, provider, legal and user vulnerabilities are found to be significantly associated with privacy concerns. Furthermore, the research highlights that privacy concerns have a positive association with user resistance to FRP. The current study also provides practical implications for cooperation and governments.

Non-traditional Gender Role Parents on the LGBTQ+ Community in Chengdu, China: A Cultural and Psychosocial Examination

The impact of non-traditional gender role parenting on the LGBTQ+ community in the Chengdu area, especially in an urban environment like Chengdu, which is known for its openness and multiculturalism is worthy of academic attention. The study was conducted primarily through both quantitative and qualitative methods: online surveys and census data were used for quantitative analysis, while in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were used for qualitative analysis. This study proposes four main hypotheses: 1) there are more parents with non-traditional gender roles relative to traditional gender roles in Chengdu; 2) children from families with non-traditional gender roles are more likely to be open about their sexual minority identities; 3) non-traditional gender role family environments may be more encouraging of children's exploration and acceptance of gender perceptions of their sexual orientations; and 4) Chengdu's social and cultural environments, specifically perceptions related to gender roles, are associated with the flourishing of the LGBTQ+ community in the city. Preliminary results show that the relative activity and openness of the LGBTQ+ community in Chengdu is significantly higher than in other regions, which is related to the higher proportion of non-traditional gender role households in Chengdu. This study emphasizes that although sexual orientation is considered an intrinsic and inherent characteristic, family environment and socio-cultural factors also play an important role, especially in a more diverse and open urban context such as Chengdu. This provides a valuable perspective for further research on the cultural and social acceptance of sexual minorities within China.

The Effect of Gamified and Blended Modules on English as a Foreign Language Learners’ Language Skills

Gamification is among the trendiest topics in the context of English language teaching. Despite numerous studies on the impact of gamified language learning, further research is essential to comprehend its dynamics across diverse contexts. Therefore, this study aimed to explore high school language learners’ certain language skills after seven weeks of gamified and blended language learning experience. A mixed-method research design was employed to understand the impact of gamified content on learners’ reading, vocabulary, grammar, and writing skills. Students’ reading, vocabulary, and grammar skills were measured with proficiency tests administered before and after the intervention whereas their writing competence was investigated through grading their written assignments. In addition, learners’ opinions regarding the experience were collected to relate the statistical findings to qualitative data. As a result, it was found that the gamified learning experience improved language learners’ language skills and learner opinions explained these outcomes adequately.

Reflections on Our Journeys to Foregrounding Students’ Experiences Through Literature in a Pre-Service Teacher Education Programme

ABSTRACT In this essay, four teacher educators explore their journeys towards foregrounding students’ lived experiences when teaching literature. Data about our teaching of literature in different contexts were generated through our personal reflective narratives and ensuing dialogic critical friend conversations. Inductive thematic analysis of the narratives revealed that in spite of our diverse initial teaching contexts and trajectories, we initially all taught in much the same teacher-centred way. We also came to the realisation, however, that over the years our informal conversations had played a role in our teaching, allowing us to move beyond our educations. Collaborative teaching relationships developed out of incidental corridor conversations and these have been instrumental in reshaping our teaching of literature, enabling us to make literary texts relevant to societal issues and the lived experiences of our students.

Enhancing Business Competencies in Library and Information Science Program: A Case Study of Eötvös Loránd University, Hungary

In an era of evolving information landscapes, where emerging technologies and dwindling budget allocation are increasingly challenging, librarians have found themselves in unfamiliar territory. This study investigates the development of business competencies among librarians by analyzing the Library and Information Science (LIS) program at Eötvös Loránd University. Using a literature analysis method, the study offers insights into the alignment of the curriculum with emerging industry trends and needs. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on the role of business expertise in library and information science education, with potential implications for curriculum enhancement to ensure that future librarians are well-prepared to excel in diverse professional contexts.

Understanding the "Berg limit": the 65° contact angle as the universal adhesion threshold of biomatter.

Surface phenomena in aqueous environments such as long-range hydrophobic attraction, macromolecular adhesion, and even biofouling are predominantly influenced by a fundamental parameter-the water contact angle. The minimal contact angle required for these and related phenomena to occur has been repeatedly reported to be around 65° and is commonly referred to as the "Berg limit." However, the universality of this specific threshold across diverse contexts has remained puzzling. In this perspective article, we aim to rationalize the reoccurrence of this enigmatic contact angle. We show that the relevant scenarios can be effectively conceptualized as three-phase problems involving the surface of interest, water, and a generic oil-like material that is representative of the nonpolar constituents within interacting entities. Our analysis reveals that attraction and adhesion emerge when substrates display an underwater oleophilic character, corresponding to a "hydrophobicity under oil", which occurs for contact angles above approximately 65°. This streamlined view provides valuable insights into macromolecular interactions and holds implications for technological applications.

Representation of the Green Color in Russian and French Linguo-Cultures

This article represents an in-depth linguistic analysis of the use of green color in the Russian and French languages. The richness of phraseological expressions and lexical turns associated with this color is examined in diverse contexts. The primary focus is on denoting plants, nature, and metaphorical meanings, such as associations with youth and emotions. The study covers various domains of green color use, including its connection with playing cards, money, and alcohol. The author aims to uncover how the color interacts with cultural concepts and perceptions in different linguocultural environments of Russian and French languages, providing a profound understanding of the multilayered semantics of the color green. The research is based on a comprehensive analysis of linguistic materials, including a comparative analysis of phraseological units in Russian and French. Methods of semantic analysis, cultural context, and historical-linguistic comparison are applied. The work relies on authentic texts and integrates cultural and linguistic history to reveal nuanced aspects of green color usage. The study offers a deep analysis of phraseological units involving the green color, identifying their cultural, linguistic, and semantic aspects in the context of Russian and French languages. The work unveils common features and unique characteristics of green color usage, providing readers with a profound understanding of its significance in various linguistic and cultural paradigms. The scientific novelty lies in the full-scale analysis of linguistic material and the exploration of the influence of cultural factors on color perception in language. The research enriches linguistic science, offering valuable insights into the realm of cultural interaction through the language prism. It inspires further investigations into the semantics of color and linguistic anthropology, introducing new perspectives and understanding into discussions on the impact of color perception on cultural norms and customs.

The Evolving Complexities of MAID Care in Canada From a Nursing Perspective

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) legislation has evolved rapidly in Canada with significant impacts on nursing practice. The purpose of this paper is to describe evolving complexities in legislative context and practice standards that influence the experiences nurse practitioners and registered nurses have with MAID. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 25 registered nurses and 10 nurse practitioners from diverse contexts across Canada. Participants described their practices and considerations when discussing MAID as part of advance care planning; their use of, and challenges with, waivers of consent; their practice considerations in negotiating the complexities of clients for whom death is not reasonably foreseeable; and their moral wrestling with the inclusion of MAID for persons whose sole underlying medical condition is mental illness. Findings illustrate the moral complexities inherent in the evolving legislation and the importance of robust health and social care systems to the legal and ethical implementation of MAID in Canada.