Impact of the home literacy environment on the L1 reading frequencies of Thai university students: Implications for the learning of an L2

In the Information Age, reading is a critical skill for accessing information and updating skills. However, reluctant readership in L1 may prevent many societies from fully participating in the global community. This reluctance to read may also slow the acquisition of an L2 such as English. This paper will present the findings of an MA dissertation which investigated pleasure reading rates in L1 at a Thai university, to understand better the issue of reluctant readership in L2. Results from a survey of six hundred students found that the home literacy environment may account for some of the differences in students’ L1 reading frequencies. Though the size effects were small, parental reading to children, book ownership, and past reading rates of parents, were all found to have significant associations with students’ present day reading frequencies and attitudes. Implications for SLA theories and reading strategies in the classroom will be discussed, as will the role of schools in promoting literacy

Network Analysis of the Walkability of Denver’s Light Rail and Bus Rapid Transit Network and How This Can Be Improved

This study evaluates how well the existing and proposed light rail and bus rapid transit lines in Denver serve residents who want to get by without a car. The number of residents and jobs within half mile and one mile walking distances of stations are calculated using network and buffer analysis methods. Results are compared to determine the accuracy benefit of conducting a network analysis rather than the more common buffer analysis. The study looks at ways to boost the number of residents and employees within walking distance by maximizing access around each station. It also quantifies the available land for Transit Oriented Development around each line since this type of development helps maximize the benefit of transit

An analysis of the cost-volume relationships within the aircraft program of the Naval Air Rework Facility, Alameda, California

The purpose of this research project is to examine the cost behavior of the Naval Air Rework Facility, Alameda, California, aircraft program in relation to variations in aircraft rework workloads, and to develop cost-volume relationships useable in support of pricing and workload decisions. Analysis of four years of quarterly direct and indirect cost data provided the base from which total cost-volume models were derived for the four aircraft program segments (A-6, P-3, S-3, and A-3). The results of this study indicate that significant cost-volume relationships exist not only with the direct costs but also with many associated indirect aircraft program costs. The study further suggests that other factors, such as rate and direction of volume changes and levels of personnel strengths, may have predictable affects on aircraft reworks costs.http://archive.org/details/analysisofcostvo00ferrCommander, United States NavyApproved for public release; distribution is unlimited

MRI features of perifibrinous deposits in the placenta due to COVID-19

COVID-19 has been linked to pregnancy complications and loss (1). Infection during pregnancy is usually mild (2). The risk is highest in the third trimester with increased hospital admission rates and maternal and fetal compromise (3). Post-COVID placentitis is uncommon but the effect on the placenta and the fetus is extensive (4). We present a case correlating clinical, imaging, and pathological findings. Case Report: A 29-year-old para 2 gravida 1, with a normal fetal anomaly scan at 22 weeks gestational age (GA) contracted COVID at 24 weeks gestation. Fully recovered but reported reduced fetal movements at 27 weeks and 1 day. Imaging: US scan showed bright echoes within the brain, small lungs, and oligohydramnios. MRI showed abnormal brain signals, small lungs, and oligohydramnios but also a very abnormal placenta. Reduced and heterogeneous T2 signal and a marked reduction in the DWI signal intensity. The placental size was markedly reduced (volume 785.6 cm3 expected for GA is 5604.8–5952.4 cm3. The surface area of attachment was 3220 mm2, expected 22180.4–29293.2 mm2). Pathology: The placenta was small (fifth centile) with massive perivillous fibrin deposition and multifocal chronic deciduitis. Histology revealed placental chorionic villi showing diffuse sclerotic changes surrounded by perivillous fibrin deposition in the intervillous space. The basal plate revealed multifocal chronic deciduitis. When imaging the fetus, it is important to examine the placenta and correlate any abnormalities. The placenta is a forgotten organ and should be routinely included and assessed to allow the detection of important abnormalities

Latin America and the Caribbean: Assessment of the Advances in Public Health for the Achievement of the Millennium Development Goals

To improve health and economy of the world population, the United Nations has set up eight international goals, known as Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), that 192 United Nations member states and at least 23 international organizations have agreed to achieve by the year 2015. The goals include: (1) eradicating extreme poverty and hunger; (2) achieving universal primary education; (3) promoting gender equality; (4) reducing child mortality; (5) improving maternal health; (6) combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases; (7) ensuring environmental sustainability; and (8) developing a global partnership for development. Having been in the midway from the 2015 deadline, the UN Secretary-General urges countries to engage constructively to review progress towards the MDGs. This paper aims to evaluate advances in public health, with special reference to gender inequalities in health, health sector reform, global burden of disease, neglected tropical diseases, vaccination, antibiotic use, sanitation and safe water, nutrition, tobacco and alcohol use, indicators of health, and disease prevention in Latin America and the Caribbean region (LAC). The paper also identifies areas of deficits for the achievement of MDGs in LAC