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Chain mail structures, known for flexibility and adaptability, hold increasing promise for architectural applications, including transportable and reconfigurable systems. However, there is a dearth of knowledge on both systematic methods to design them, and complex behaviours of interlocking modules that comprise the structure. Preliminary studies, in response to this research gap, demonstrate the chain mail's structural potential as programmable architecture. Nevertheless, to validate our models, we must move from the small scale to recognisably viable structures at an architectural scale. Acknowledging the multiscale prototype's significance for developing new architectural systems, this study scales up chain mail structures from a small 1:10 scale to larger 1:2 and 1:1 scales. Employing a Research-Through-Design approach, we systematically addressed the challenges, focusing on module fabrication and prototype construction through analogue computation. Fabrication adjustments involve changing materials and modifying designs to suit manufacturing techniques. Additional design elements and process steps are needed to facilitate programming the larger scale structures due to the increased weight during construction. The research culminated in a full-scale saddle-like structure, illustrating the feasibility of direct scaling from smaller to larger scales and the expansive architectural potential of chain mail structures. In conclusion, the study successfully identified and responded to specific challenges related to the fabrication and construction of upscaled chain mail prototypes, aligning solutions with practical contexts. In doing so, this research contributes a set of considerations to enable more systematic design approaches for chain mail structural systems in architecture. At the same time, scaling up uncovers the inherent intelligence of these structures, providing a foundation for both empirical testing through analogue experimentation, and developing a predictive framework for their development and application in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug resistance represents a significant obstacle in cancer treatment, underscoring the need for the discovery of novel therapeutic targets. Ubiquitin-specific proteases (USPs), a subclass of deubiquitinating enzymes, play a pivotal role in protein deubiquitination. As scientific research advances, USPs have been recognized as key regulators of drug resistance across a spectrum of treatment modalities, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy. This comprehensive review examines the complex relationship between USPs and drug resistance mechanisms, focusing on specific treatment strategies and highlighting the influence of USPs on DNA damage repair, apoptosis, characteristics of cancer stem cells, immune evasion, and other crucial biological functions. Additionally, the review highlights the potential clinical significance of USP inhibitors as a means to counter drug resistance in cancer treatment. By inhibiting particular USP, cancer cells can become more susceptible to a variety of anti-cancer drugs. The integration of USP inhibitors with current anti-cancer therapies offers a promising strategy to circumvent drug resistance. Therefore, this review emphasizes the importance of USPs as viable therapeutic targets and offers insight into fruitful directions for future research and drug development. Targeting USPs presents an effective method to combat drug resistance across various cancer types, leading to enhanced treatment strategies and better patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate differences in dietary factors between young-onset (diagnosed at ages <50) and older-onset colorectal cancer (CRC). CRC patients diagnosed from 1998 to 2018 reported to the Puget Sound Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry were recruited using mail and telephone. Consented patients completed questionnaires assessing demographics, medical history, and CRC risk factors, including dietary factors. We used multi-variable logistic regression to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) comparing dietary intake in young-onset vs. older-onset CRC. Analyses included 1,087 young- and 2,554 older-onset CRC patients. Compared to older-onset CRC, young-onset CRC patients had lower intake of vegetables (OR for highest intake vs. lowest = 0.59 CI: 0.55, 0.64) and fruit (OR for highest intake vs. lowest = 0.94 CI: 0.88, 0.99) and higher intake of processed meat (OR for highest intake vs. lowest = 1.82 CI: 1.11, 2.99) and spicy food (OR for highest intake vs. lowest = 1.69 CI: 1.09, 2.61). There was no statistically significant difference between young- and older-onset CRC patients for red meat consumption. Dietary patterns differed between young- and older-onset CRC; young-onset CRC patients had lower intake of vegetables and fruit and higher intakes of processed meat and spicy food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the development of Pitrufquén (located in the Araucanía Region, Chile, and founded in 1897) from a historical, territorial, urban, and architectural point of view. It is proposed that the city’s development is framed in a new moment, where the Chilean State abandons military criteria and assumes economic-territorial factors where the railroad’s presence is a determining factor. The choice of the site, its particular layout, and the development of its architecture are evidence of this change. From the historical point of view, it is analyzed how, in Pitrufquén, the Mapuche society had cattle raising as the main economic activity, as it had pastures to feed the cattle, the land was suitable for crops, and there was a vital ford to cross the Toltén River. This strategic location was maintained and accentuated by the city’s founding and the railroad’s arrival in 1898, turning the town into a railhead for progress towards the south of the country. In the case of the urban layout, its peculiarity was addressed since, together with Lonquimay, these are the only sections in the La Araucanía region organized based on an ellipse, which, in the case of Pitrufquén, also coexists with a checkerboard layout. The study analyzed its squares, diagonal avenues, and the perimeter ring road. At an architectural level, the article explores the three layers or aspects of the city: The first one studies the wooden architecture with works from the late 19th and early 20th centuries; the second refers to public architecture, represented by buildings such as the municipality, public services, the post office, and others; and a third layer addresses the modern architecture, such as housing and stores from the period between 1940 and 1960. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the importance of translations in Modern Greek Studies and highlights recent English-language translations of Greek literary texts. It focuses on three books: "Condemned" by Konstantinos Theotokis, "Niki" by Christos Chomenidis, and "Time Stitches" by Eleni Kefala. The review suggests that these translations can be used in comparative syllabi or courses on specific topics, expanding the available literature for educators, students, and general readers. The article provides a brief overview of each book, emphasizing their themes and relevance to broader issues of justice, morality, and social systems. The text also praises the translations by Patricia Felisa Barbeito and Peter Constantine for their skill and sensitivity, and encourages readers to explore the growing availability of Greek literature in translation. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the inventive adjustments that have been made to provide uninterrupted delivery services by the postal sector amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach: This is an empirical study on the primary data collected from 354 postal users who use the services during and after pandemic disruption. This study uses regression, partial least square structural modeling and correlation to find out the relationship between dependent and independent variables. Originality/Value: This paper presents an empirical study that examines the determinants of innovation impacting customer satisfaction among postal users in India during the pandemic disruption, addressing the dearth of previous empirical research on the adaptability of the postal system in this context. The results of our study can help the postal sector create more effective strategies for utilizing cutting-edge logistics technology, enabling them to change into delivery service providers that are innovation-driven. Findings: The postal sector incorporates both service and technological innovation. The study also includes the other two constructs of logistics efficiency and customer satisfaction. Both service and technological innovation have a significant impact on customer satisfaction; however, service innovation is found to be the reason behind the survivability of the postal sector during the pandemic disruptive environment. Logistics efficiency positively affects customer satisfaction. However, logistics efficiency partially mediates the relationship between innovation and customer satisfaction. Overall, postal customers' satisfaction improves when innovation and logistics efficiency are present. Theoretical/methodological Contributions: This study connects innovation with logistics efficiency and customer satisfaction in the context of Indian postal system and their adaptability during COVID-19 Social/management Contributions: The impact of innovation on logistical efficiency and consumer perception can be better understood with the help of this study. This can then be used to formulate or adjust strategies to boost the India Post's revenues and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Post Office was the United Kingdom's single largest employer and possessed the majority of female workers in the Civil Service before the First World War. This article concentrates on the self-perception and trade union activities of the Irish women who became permanent postal staff by successfully qualifying in the public examination. It first examines the meaning of educational standard to these women by exploring the decline of open competition from 1902. In this process, it demonstrates their professional commitment and pride which was consolidated and amplified after the breakout of the First World War – attitudes sometimes denounced as inconsistent with feminine propriety. These "unfeminine women" constantly fought against discriminatory social norms amid the attacks from "angry men" and survived in the public sphere even after the war. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Les camps de regroupement en Algérie: Une histoire des déplacements forcés (1954–1962)" by Fabien Sacriste is a meticulously researched history of the forced relocation of Algeria's rural population by the French military between 1954 and 1962. The author examines the bureaucratic infighting and difficult relationships between French military and civil authorities during this period. The book also explores the negative connotations associated with the term "camp de regroupement" and the government's response to the displacement of Algerians. The author sheds light on the relationship between military tactics and modernization efforts in Algeria, as well as the long-lasting impact of the forced relocations. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Remote monitoring (RM) of pacemakers and implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs) is a Class 1, Level of Evidence A recommendation because of its multitude of clinical benefits. However, RM adherence rates are suboptimal, precluding patients from achieving these benefits. There is a need for direct‐to‐patient efforts to improve adherence. Methods: In this national randomized, controlled trial conducted in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), 2120 patients with a pacemaker or ICD who had not sent an RM transmission for ≥1 year (and usually ≥3 years) while under VHA care for their device were randomly assigned to be mailed a postcard (n = 1076) or a detailed letter (n = 1044). The postcard described what RM does and its key benefits (reduced mortality and fewer in‐person visits). The letter provided a similar message but included more details about RM benefits and the process. The primary outcome was an RM transmission sent within 90 days of mailing, and a secondary outcome was an RM transmission sent within 365 days. Results: The primary outcome was achieved in 121 (11.3%) in the postcard and 96 patients (9.2%) in the letter group (p =.12). The secondary outcome was achieved in 266 (24.7%) and 239 (22.9%), respectively (p =.32). Conclusions: This randomized trial showed no significant difference in the proportion of chronically non‐adherent patients who sent an RM transmission after receiving a low‐cost postcard or a detailed, higher‐cost letter encouraging their participation in RM. However, as only a minority of patients responded to either, further work is needed to engage patients in the life‐saving benefits of RM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australian children with visual impairment (VI) are underrepresented in studies exploring engagement in physical activities. Existing research documents that children with VI do not meet recommendations for physical activity guidelines which negatively impacts their physical and mental health. To improve participation, information is needed on what physical activities children with VI participate in and why. The objective of this study was to explore what physical activities children with VI participate in and why how they first got involved in them. A larger study was designed to explore multiple aspects of physical activity participation. This article presents findings relevant to what activities Western Australian children with VI participate in and factors which initiated participation. Findings were collected through a survey returned by 38 families and interviews with 22 families including parents and children with VI. School physical education, swimming, play equipment, and walking were the activities with the highest number of participants. Parent factors which motivated participation were having strong values/beliefs which supported engagement, modelling participation in activities, and seeking specific benefits/outcomes. Child factors which motivated participation included impact of their VI and the child's choice/interest. External factors included advertisements and accessibility of information. Many Australian children with VI and their parents are motivated to engage in physical activities, with initial participation commonly catalysed by external factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terahertz radiation has emerged as a prominent solution for imaging and detection beyond visible and infrared. Active terahertz imaging is a widely used technology in this context especially for security applications and screening. Such systems are built around an illuminating source, a detecting module and a beam shaping system to match the detectors geometry. The overall system performance is largely dependent on an optimized choice of these modules. In this work, an active sub-terahertz scanning system working at 100 GHz frequency is proposed to detect concealed objects in parcels and mail. The system is optimized based on an adapted design of the beam shaper and a preprocessing correction of the images to ensure uniformity of response and cleanness. The proposed system demonstrated through experimentation improved resolution with a uniform response along its detection area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The illegal movement of wildlife poses a public health, conservation and biosecurity threat, however there are currently minimal screening tools available at international ports of entry to intercept wildlife trafficking efforts. This review first aimed to explore the screening tools available or under development for the detection of concealed wildlife contraband at international ports, including postal services, airlines, road border crossings and maritime routes. Where evidence was deficient, publications detailing the use of methods to uncover other illicit substances, such as narcotics, weapons, human trafficking, explosives, radioactive materials, or special nuclear material, were compiled and assessed for their applicability to the detection of wildlife. The first search identified only four citations related to the detection of wildlife, however the secondary search revealed 145 publications, including 59 journal articles and 86 conference proceedings, describing screening tools for non-wildlife illicit contraband detection. The screening tools uncovered were analysed for potential fitness for purpose for wildlife contraband detection, to evaluate the feasibility of their implementation and their ease of use. The deficiencies evident in terms of resource availability and research efforts targeting wildlife trafficking highlights a potentially substantial national and international security threat which must be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enforcement of uncontested or contested fines that have become final following the judicial procedure must be carried out effectively, as the end point of the infringement procedure, in order to fulfil the preventive and punitive roles of the sanction. A fine is the most commonly applied principal penalty for a contravention, with usually generous general and special limits, which allow a fair individualisation of the penalty according to the criteria provided for in Article 21(2) of the Treaty. 3 of GC 2/2001. The person who imposes the fine is usually the official himself, mentioning it in the report, including the possibility for the offender to pay half of the special minimum within 15 days. To the extent that the offender agrees to take advantage of this facility, namely to pay within 15 days half of the special minimum, he does not lose the right to challenge the fine, because payment does not inactivate the presumption of innocence which he enjoys, but only the offender is a prudent and diligent person, who, not being able to know from the outset, objectively, the outcome of a possible legal action, takes the measures that the law recognises in his favour to mitigate as much as possible the future financial loss. Following the two stages of jurisdiction, at first instance and on appeal, the outcome of the infringement complaint may be negative for the offender, if the claim is rejected, or positive, if the fine imposed is re-indexed and a lower fine is definitively imposed, or the fine imposed is replaced by a warning, or the infringement report is annulled on grounds of formal or substantive illegality or unreasonableness. Payment of the fine will be made at the offender's town hall of residence, and it is irrelevant where the offence was committed or where the report was made. The offender can go to the Town Hall, to any Treasury office or to any post office or can choose to pay the fine via the Ghișeul.ro platform or via internet banking. Under Article 165(2) of the Code of Tax Procedure, fines are paid in priority to other taxes owed by the taxpayer. In all cases, if the person sanctioned is a legal person, the communication of final sanctions not voluntarily executed shall be made to the units subordinated to the Ministry of Public Finance – National Tax Administration Agency, in whose territorial district the offender has his tax domicile, as required by Article 39 para. 2 lit. b of OG no. 2/2001. According to Article 230 of the Code of Tax Procedure, enforcement begins with the communication of the summons. If the debt is not extinguished within 15 days of the communication of the summons or if the tax authority is not notified of the intention to initiate the mediation procedure, enforcement measures shall continue. The summons shall be accompanied by a copy of the enforcement order issued by the enforcement body. If this deadline is also ignored by the offender, the enforcement body will proceed to identify the debtor's assets and evaluate them. According to Article 222 of the Code of Tax Procedure, the enforcement body shall carry out the valuation through its own or independent valuation experts. If the fines are small and the offender has regular income, the uncollected fines are covered by distraint, otherwise the offender's assets may be sold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gharee for Economics & Administration Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The logistics of natural history sustained natural history's capacity to acquire, classify and preserve specimens. This mobilization of nature established complex supply-chains, encompassing naturalists, colonial officers, museum curators, and many others, that materialized distinct global infrastructures. In suggesting the notion of Logistical Natures, this special issue renders the intersection of (critical) logistics and nature productive in two ways. First, the essays explore the logistics of natural history and analyze how large-scale, mostly colonial, infrastructures shaped knowledge, practices, and material culture within natural history. Second, Logistical Natures draws attention to the natural history of logistics for these infrastructures, such as postal services, military infrastructures, and railway systems, were also productive of new kinds of nature. Logistical Natures analyzes how modes of circulation materialized as (and in) the bodies, including people and specimens, and knowledge practices of natural history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the challenges of voting by mail in Native American communities, exacerbated by disparities in postal infrastructure and state laws that do not accommodate these realities. Topics include the impact of COVID-19 on election procedures in Arizona, efforts to expand all-mail elections despite legal constraints, and the ongoing electoral isolation faced by Native Americans due to unequal access to postal services, which undermines their voting rights.

The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of Competence, Work Flexibility, and Work Motivation on Employee Performance at the Indonesian Post Office Malioboro, Special Region of Yogyakarta. This study used a non-probability sample with the most saturated sampling technique or census with a total of 80 respondents. This research is primary data and is associative with a quantitative approach using questionnaire instruments. The result of this study is a significant influence between competence, work flexibility, work motivation on employee performance obtained from the t test and sobel test (mediation). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the evolving definition of the word in early Northwest Semitic writing. The author argues that the practice of dividing words did not exist in the early stages of alphabetic writing, but developed over time. The concept of a word is complex and elusive, with no clear and unambiguous definition. The article also discusses the absence of a word for "word" in cultures without a literary tradition and examines evidence from ancient writing systems in Mesopotamia and Egypt. The text discusses the use of word dividers in ancient writing systems, specifically cuneiform and Egyptian hieroglyphs. It explains that cuneiform did not visually mark the divisions between words, making silent reading difficult, while Egyptian hieroglyphs built word division into the writing system. The text suggests that the lack of word dividers in early alphabetic inscriptions was intentional, as these texts were not meant to be read but rather written for specific purposes. The early alphabet was designed to be simple to write but not easy to read, as it was not intended for communication. The text discusses the development and use of word dividers in ancient alphabetic inscriptions. It explains that word dividers were introduced relatively quickly and became a common feature in Late Bronze and Iron Age alphabetic texts. However, there is no clear consensus on the rules governing their use, and different traditions and schools of thought emerged. The text also highlights the inconsistency in word division practices across different dialects and genres of writing. This article discusses [Extracted from the article]

This document provides an overview of healthcare procurement and concessions legislation in Bulgaria, examining its alignment with international and European Union regulations. It discusses the challenges faced by the healthcare sector in Bulgaria and the strategic priorities outlined in the National Health Strategy 2030. The report highlights the limited use of public procurement and concessions in healthcare services and suggests further exploration of their potential to improve healthcare in Bulgaria. Future reports will review the legal framework for non-core health services, works, supplies, and health services-specific legislation. An appendix lists various health and social services. [Extracted from the article]

The text discusses the International Procurement Instrument (IPI) enacted by the European Union to address the lack of access for European companies to public procurement and concession markets in third countries. The IPI aims to eliminate restrictive practices and open up these markets for European operators. The European Commission has the authority to investigate alleged measures or practices by third countries that impair access for European operators. If a measure or practice is found, the Commission can adopt an IPI measure to restrict access to the EU's public procurement or concession markets for economic operators from that third country. The IPI measure may include score adjustments or exclusions for tenders from the third country. The IPI measure is applicable to public procurement procedures above certain thresholds and is subject to review and potential extension or adjustment. Successful tenderers must fulfill certain obligations, and contracting authorities have the option to not implement an IPI measure in exceptional cases. The text also mentions the investigation initiated by the European Commission under the IPI into discriminatory practices in China's procurement market for medical devices. The goal of the investigation is to promote dialogue and eliminate discrimination, with IPI measures being considered if dialogue fails. The IPI is being implemented alongside the Foreign Subsidies Regulation to address market distortions caused by foreign subsidies for public contracts and concessions. [Extracted from the article]

Background: A population-based cervical cancer screening programme is implemented in the Czech Republic. However, participation is insufficient among women over 50 years. This study aimed to estimate the potential improvement in participation through directly mailed HPV self-sampling kits (HPVssk) compared with standard invitation letters in women aged 50-65 non-participating in screening. Methods: The study recruited 1564 eligible women (no cervical cancer screening in the last 3 years or more, no previous treatment associated with cervical lesions or cervical cancer). Eight hundred women were mailed with an HPVssk (HPVssk group), and 764 women were sent a standard invitation letter (control group) inviting them to a routine screening (Pap test). The primary outcome was a comparison of the overall participation rate between study groups using a binominal regression model. Results: The participation rate in the HPVssk group was 13.4% [95% confidence interval (CI) 11.2-15.9%; 7.4% of women returned the HPVssk and 6.0% attended gynaecological examination] and 5.0% (95% CI 3.6-6.8%) in the control group. Using the binominal regression model, the difference between the groups was estimated as 7.6% (95% CI 5.0-10.2%; P<0.001). In the HPVssk group, 22% of women who returned HPVssk had a positive result and 70% of them underwent a follow-up examination. Conclusions: Compared with traditional invitation letters, the direct mailing of the HPVssk achieved a significantly higher participation rate, along with a notable HPV positivity rate among HPVssk responders. This approach offers a potentially viable method for engaging women who have not yet attended a cervical screening programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Charities that fundraise from the public can feel competing pressures to be as efficient as possible in their fundraising efforts and to accurately and ethically reflect their services and beneficiaries in their fundraising materials. At the same time, the number of donors giving to charity is in a long-term decline. These pressures may lead charitable managers to make tradeoffs when designing and implementing their fundraising programs. In this case study, two direct mail solicitations using different types of beneficiaries from one Canadian charity are examined to see how those trade-offs affect fundraising results. When aggregated, the differences between an out-group beneficiary profile and an in-group beneficiary profile appear subordinate to larger market-level externalities when all else is held equal. When disaggregated, there appears to be a change in donor behavior at the lower end of donation amounts in some markets and community types. The results of this study suggest that fundraiser tactics that narrow in on the preferences of a small segment of donors may be contributing to declining numbers of donors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Internet and social media networks usage has increased nowadays and become a prominent medium of communicating. Email is one of the professional reliable methods of communication. Automatic classifications of spam emails have become an area of interest. In order to detect spam emails, this study utilizes a dataset, including spam and non-spam emails. Various techniques are applied to obtain higher accuracy using machine learning techniques. NLP is also utilized for improvising accuracy using embeddings. For that, this work utilizes the BERT model, to achieve satisfactory detection of spam emails. Further, the results are compared with state-of-the-art methods, including, KNN, LSTM and Bi-LSTM. The results obtained by Bi-LSTM and LSTM were 97.94% and 86.02%, respectively. The presented methodology is promising in detecting spam emails due to the higher accuracy achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides an overview of distance education in Zimbabwe, specifically focusing on the role of communication and the use of printed materials. In the 1980s, Zimbabwe implemented distance education to train teachers in response to increased enrollment. The primary mode of communication was through the postal system, with students receiving written assignments and resources. The article emphasizes the importance of effective communication, the use of a distance education syllabus, and interactive study guides to enhance teaching and learning. It also discusses guidelines for designing instructional materials, including the use of appropriate graphic design principles. The article concludes by highlighting the continued relevance of printed materials in distance education when integrated with digital tools. [Extracted from the article]

The article explores the early consular service in the United States from 1776 to 1856, shedding light on its significance and challenges. Consuls played a crucial role in facilitating overseas commerce and protecting American interests abroad, providing services to merchants and sailors at minimal cost. However, they faced issues such as low compensation, leading to the appointment of non-Americans as consuls, and criticisms from merchants and captains. The lack of support and funding from the State Department hindered the effectiveness of the consular service, and meaningful reform only occurred in 1856. This reflects the limited role of the federal government in foreign affairs during this period. [Extracted from the article]