Visibility Threshold: Some Considerations on Data Mining Applied to the Study of Eblaite Society

Accounting is a routine activity. Through repetition, the scribes of the Ebla Archives (Syria, 24th cent. BCE) have been able to record thousands of transactions. They organized and stored accounting data referred to more than thirty years of the Palace G activities. The recurring textual patterns characterizing the administrative corpus are a byproduct of this routine-based approach. The ability to see recurring patterns in the textual record is fundamental when dealing with an administrative corpus: however, this ability fails when the patterns are buried in data. In this paper, I argue that theoretical aspects of data mining are not far from theoretical and methodological tenets of the historical approach. Data mining is a useful technique for the identification of document clusters and relevant information which would otherwise remain hidden. Furthermore, textual pattern recognition is critical to address topics such as the study of society: belonging to a category of complex problems, any socio-historical investigation requires dealing with multiple interconnected variables. However, not all research topics require such an approach. I define the line beyond which digital approaches are extremely useful (if not indispensable) as 'visibility threshold’. The position of this interface is relative and subjective.

First report of tomato fruit blotch virus infecting tomatoes in Brazil

Recently, a new blunervirus was reported in tomatoes showing fruit chlorotic lesions. This virus, named tomato fruit blotch virus (ToFBV), was found associated with the tomato fruit blotch disease in Italy and Australia, even though Koch’s postulates were not fulfilled and no viral particles were seen in leaf dips observed with an electron microscope (Ciuffo et al. 2020). In December 2019, symptoms of circular or irregular chlorotic blotches were observed in tomato fruits in an organic farm in Distrito Federal, Brazil. Five different tomato cultivars (2100 plants of cv. Sweet grape, 1700 of Giacomo, 560 of Grazianni, 160 of Tropical, and 160 of DRC 5640) were being grown in two greenhouses and all of them presented the symptoms in at least one fruit, particularly in older fruits. No virus-like symptoms were observed in young and middle leaves, but older leaves could not be examined because they were removed as a routine activity of the farm; and also due to the moderate infestation of the tomato russet mite Aculops lycopersici, associated with leaf and stem necrosis. No viral particles were observed in an electron microscope analysis of symptomatic fruit tissues, and sap inoculation and grafting of stems did not produce any symptom in indicator plants. Two young and asymptomatic plants with the first fruits still in development were removed from another greenhouse of the farm and transported to our greenhouse, but the typical blotch symptoms neither appeared in the fruits nor the necrosis symptoms in the leaves. Serological tests performed for all collected leaf and fruit samples using antibodies produced in-house against common tomato-infecting tospoviruses and potyviruses were negative, as well as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection test for begomoviruses (Rojas et al. 1993). Total RNA from newly collected samples consisting of one symptomatic fruit sample and five asymptomatic leaf samples from distinct plants were individually extracted using RNeasy Plant Mini Kit (Qiagen, Hilden, Germany) and pooled for next generation sequencing (NGS). The library was constructed using TruSeq Stranded Total RNA with Ribo-Zero Plant (Illumina, San Diego, USA) and sequenced at Macrogen, Inc. (Seoul, South Korea) in an Illumina Novaseq6000 platform. The 4,621,977,958 reads obtained were trimmed using Trimommatic 0.35 (Bolger et al. 2014) and contigs were assembled using Velvet (Zerbino and Birney 2008). Following tblastx analysis on Geneious 9.1.8 (Biomatters Ltd.) and BLAST on the NCBI platform (Altschul et al. 1990), seven contigs matching tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV) and five contigs matching ToFBV were identified. Sequences for each of the four genome components of ToFBV (MK517477-MK517480) already present in databases were used as reference using the Map to Reference function in Geneious. A total of 338,402, 78,039, 555,302 and 461,474 reads mapped to virus genome components 1 to 4, respectively, with >99% coverage for each. Four final consensus sequences were used for BLAST analyses on NCBI and presented 97 to 99.7 % nucleotide identity with those used for mapping. These sequences were deposited in GenBank as isolate MAL under accession numbers MW546267 (RNA 1, 5770 nt), MW546268 (RNA 2, 3612 nt), MW546269 (RNA 3, 2826 nt) and MW546270 (RNA 4, 1950 nt). The primer pair Bluner1F (5’-ATTCCTGTTCCTTCGGATAAACTCGT-3’) and Bluner1R (5’-CACACGTGCAGGAAATGGAAAGA-3’) directed to RNA 1 was used to specifically detect the virus. Three leaf samples and two fruit samples, each from a different plant with typical symptoms, were tested positive for ToFBV and negative using ToCV-specific primers in RT-PCR (Dovas et al. 2002). This confirmed that although some plants pooled in the HTS library were infected with ToCV, the chlorotic blotch symptom was clearly associated with the presence of ToFBV. Furthermore, the ~0.5 kbp amplicon for ToFBV-specific primers from one randomly selected sample was sequenced with both primers and the resulting sequence shared 100% nt identity with the RNA 1 of ToFBV isolate Fondi2018 from Italy (MK517477). Then, the virus was detected in the tissue from the surface of another fruit, but not from its internal part, suggesting a superficial infection. The findings presented here are of high phytosanitary significance, given the strong symptoms associated with tomato fruit blotch disease and the identification of ToFBV in the tomato samples from Brazil.

Cyber victimization within the Routine Activity Theory Framework in the Digital Age

This quantitative-based research determined whether the routine activity theory influences cyber victimization. To measure the dimensions of the theory, defined as exposure to a motivated offender, suitable online target, and absence of a capable guardian, a valid and reliable questionnaire was used. The cyber victimization questionnaire developed by Álvarez-García, Dobarro, and Núñez was applied to 1,285 students selected at random from schools in Colombia. Findings: 46% are identified as exposed to a motivated offender, 37.5% are suitable online targets, and 29.8% have no capable guardians. The interdependence of these three elements revealed that 3.9% of students are at risk due to their routine activities, which had a significant influence on cyber victimization. It is proposed that these findings should be considered in the design of communicative and educational policies aimed at a responsible use of technologies.

MEMBANGUN DAN MEMELIHARA KOMUNIKASI DALAM KONSELING

ABSTRACTCommunication in daily life is a routine activity carried out by social creatures. Success in building good communication is determined by components effectively, empathy, and good manners between fellow educators, education staff, parents, students, and people. This study aims to find out how to create a communication relationship in counseling between BK teachers and students at Muhammadiyah Senior High School 1 of Yogyakarta. The author uses several methods to collect data, such as interviews and observations. The results of this study explain that the communication process in counseling between BK teachers and students includes several stages, namely: The first start by collecting data about students through a questionnaire tool to several problems and a list of problem notes, the second was the teacher provides opportunities for students to convey the problem they face, the third was empathize with students with verbal and non-verbal language, and the fourth was mentoring continuously to optimize students potential (every student who is naughty or problematic must have a positive side). Establishing and maintaining communication requires the following steps, these are relationship building, problem identification and assessment, facilitating counseling change, and evaluation and termination.Keywords: Communication, Counseling. ABSTRAKKomunikasi dalam kehidupan sehari-hari merupakan aktivitas rutin yang dilakukan oleh setiap makhluk sosial. Keberhasilan dalam membangun komunikasi yang baik sangat ditentukan oleh seluruh komponen secara efektif, empati, dan santun, baik antara sesama pendidik, tenaga kependidikan, orang tua, siswa dan masyarakat. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bagaimana konsep membangun hubungan komunikasi dalam konseling antara guru BK dan peserta didik di sekolah SMA Muhammadiyah 1 Yogyakarta. Penulis menggunakan beberapa metode dalam pengumpulan data diantaranya wawancara dan observasi. Hasil penelitian ini menjelaskan bahwa proses komunikasi dalam konseling antara guru BK dan siswa meliputi beberapa tahapan yaitu: 1). Diawali dengan mengumpulkan data-data tentang siswa melalui kuisioner alat ungkap masalah dan daftar catatan masalah, 2). Guru memberikan kesempatan kepada siswa untuk menyampaikan masalah yang dihadapi, 3). Berempati kepada siswa dengan bahasa verbal dan non verbal, 4). Pendampingan secara terus-menerus untuk mengoptimalkan potensi siswa (setiap siswa yang nakal atau bermasalah pasti ada sisi positifnya). Membangun dan memelihara komunikasi diperlukan langkah-langkah sebagai berikut: membangun hubungan, identifikasi dan penilaian masalah, memfasilitasi perubahan konseling, serta evaluasi dan terminasi.Kata Kunci: Komunikasi, Konseling.

Contribution of Lifestyle Related Shaming in Drug Relapse Management in Indonesia

In the statistical calculation of the National Narcotics Board of the Republic of Indonesia or so called BNN, there were 70% of drug offenders with the status of drug relapse in 2019 reached (BNN: 2019). Such condition illustrates that the social rehabilitation mechanism for drug offenders in Indonesia still has the opportunity to present shameless people. Therefore, this study is intended to observe the significance of Lifestyle Related Shaming as an effort to reduce the number of drug relapses in Indonesia. Lifestyle Related Shaming is supported by 3 (three) macro theories, namely reintegrative shaming theory proposed by John Braithwaite, desistance theory proposed by Farral and routine activity theory proposed by Hiddlenlang The literature review method was applied here through the utilization and effort to develop an existing theory (grounded theory) by presenting certain concepts (variables) in accordance with the affordability of study data. In addition to qualitative approach, this research also performed a quantitative approach through survey method among respondents who experienced drugs relapse in Indonesia as well as in-depth interviews with drug relapse residents with various backgrounds and educational levels at the Center for Drug Rehabilitation of the Republic of Indonesia at Lido Bogor. It is expected that this study may provide a broad understanding to the government to prepare the best program for solving the drug relapse phenomenon, especially drug abuse in Indonesia. For the science, this study is expected to be a basis for the implementation of shaming in Indonesia. Furthermore, this study is also expected to be able to provide input in the process of drug relapse management in Indonesia, especially in an effort to prevent residents from falling into a shameless condition.

Commuting in Almaty agglomeration: an analysis of pilot survey results

Commuting is a process that occurs frequently, usually in bigger cities and agglomerations. People living in the periphery tend to travel to work that is located in the center of agglomeration. The choice to commute can vary among the population, and that is explained by internal and external factors such as the economic and financial situation of people, labor market, etc. Even though a routine activity is a central concept of commuting, it takes place in different forms and ways and is impacted by various sociodemographic, economic, and spatial aspects. Hence, it is these social and economic changes in commuting tendencies, characters, and behaviors that this study aims to classify, analyze, and comprehend. Almaty is one of the most populated cities in Kazakhstan. Due to the urbanization processes and urban development, the city captures new territories and becomes an agglomeration. This leads to increased daily human mobility. People living in the periphery of the agglomeration, but working in downtown, travel to their workplace. Therefore, they conduct commuting. Studying commuting is important for the city’s development. The purpose of this article is to identify the characteristics of pendulum migration based on the analysis of the results of a pilot survey conducted in the Almaty region. The methods of descriptive statistics are used for the analysis of the survey results.

Identifying food fraud vulnerability factors in food fraud incidents – a review of global incidents 2000–2018

PurposeGlobal food fraud incidents are regularly reported and are on the rise due to the ineffectiveness of traditional food safety intervention strategies. The increase in food fraud opportunity is prevalent in the state of the COVID-19 pandemic as well. Food fraud vulnerability assessment (FFVA) is acknowledged as a critical requirement by the Global Food Safety Initiatives (GFSIs) and the World Health Organisation for an effective food fraud mitigation plan. However, there is no clear direction or ways to identify and analyse food fraud vulnerability factors based on real-data.Design/methodology/approachCombining the barrier analysis technique and the routine activity theory to review the 580 cases of food fraud recorded in the Decernis database, this paper identified new food fraud vulnerability dimensions and insights pinpointed to three categories of opportunity, motivation and countermeasures.FindingsNew dimensions of food fraud vulnerability factors are identified in this paper over the period 2000–2018. Where possible, new insights related to each food fraud vulnerability factor and dimension were identified, and literature evidence was used to confirm their contribution.Originality/valueThere is a gap observed in the first step of FFVA in the literature. This paper is the first study to undertake a FFVA based on evidence recorded in a global food fraud database. This paper offers critical insights into global food fraud regulations by exploring the new emerging root causes of food fraud and analysing them, supporting developing effective food fraud prevention plans (FFPPs).

Office hysteroscopy: a review

With the invention of new techniques and modalities “see and treat” has become the norm of management now a days. Diagnostic hysteroscopy combined with histological examination of an endometrial biopsy is considered the ‘gold standard’ in the diagnosis of intrauterine abnormalities. The importance of office hysteroscopy lies in the fact that there is no need of any anesthesia and after the procedure the patient can return into his routine activity only with the minimal aid of NSAIDs. Two different types of hysteroscopes are used worldwide: flexible or rigid, which are made in different sizes. Optic miniaturization has been one of the greatest technological advancements in the field of hysteroscopy, both for rod-lens and fiberoptic scopes. The main concerns in office hysteroscopy are the need for necessary expertise, pain management and management of the complications in the office setting and the high cost of the equipment needed for the procedure. But office hysteroscopy has already demonstrated good correlation of findings compared with inpatient hysteroscopy, providing distinct advantages such as reduced anesthesia risks, enhanced time and cost-effectiveness, and faster recovery with less time away from work and home.

Achieving Spread, Scale Up and Sustainability of Video Consulting Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic? Findings From a Comparative Case Study of Policy Implementation in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

Requirements for physical distancing as a result of COVID-19 and the need to reduce the risk of infection prompted policy supporting rapid roll out of video consulting across the four nations of the UK—England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Drawing on three studies of the accelerated implementation and uptake of video consulting across the four nations, we present a comparative and interpretive policy analysis of the spread and scale-up of video consulting during the pandemic. Data include interviews with 59 national level stakeholders, 55 health and social care staff and 30 patients, 20 national documents, responses to a UK-wide survey of NHS staff and analysis of routine activity data. Sampling ensured variations in geography, clinical context and adoption progress across the combined dataset. Comparative analysis was guided by theory on policy implementation and crisis management. The pandemic provided a “burning platform” prompting UK-wide policy supporting the use of video consulting in health care as a critical means of managing the risk of infection and a standard mode of provision. This policy push facilitated interest in video consulting across the UK. There was, however, marked variation in how this was put into practice across the four nations. Pre-existing infrastructure, policies and incentives for video consulting in Scotland, combined with a collaborative system-level approach, a program dedicated to developing video-based services and resourcing and supporting staff to deliver them enabled widespread buy-in and rapid spread. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, pre-existing support for digital health (e.g., hardware, incentives) and virtual care, combined with reduced regulation and “light touch” procurement managed to override some (but by no means all) cultural barriers and professional resistance to implementing digital change. In Northern Ireland and Wales, limited infrastructure muted spread. In all three countries, significant effort at system level to develop, review and run video consulting programs enabled a substantial number of providers to change their practice, albeit variably across settings. Across all four nations ongoing uncertainty, potential restructuring and tightening of regulations, along with difficulties inherent in addressing inequalities in digital access, raise questions about the longer-term sustainability of changes to-date.