bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large Deformation Finite Element Analyses for 3D X-ray CT Scanned Microscopic Structures of Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Iizuka Makoto , Goto Ryohei , Siegkas Petros , Simpson Benjamin , Mansfield Neil
Published: February 2021

Polyurethane foams have unique properties that make them suitable for a wide range of applications, including cushioning and seat pads. The foam mechanical properties largely depend on both the parent material and foam cell microstructure. Uniaxial loading experiments, X-ray tomography and finite element analysis can be used to investigate the relationship between the macroscopic mechanical properties and microscopic foam structure. Polyurethane foam specimens were scanned using X-ray computed tomography. The scanned geometries were converted to three-dimensional (3D) CAD models using open source, and commercially available CAD software tools. The models were meshed and used to simulate the compression tests using the implicit finite element method. The calculated uniaxial compression tests were in good agreement with experimental results for strains up to 30%. The presented method would be effective in investigating the effect of polymer foam geometrical features in macroscopic mechanical properties, and guide manufacturing methods for specific applications.
The Pertinent Literature of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery Programs: A Bibliometric Approach
Authors: Li Cheng , Cheng Yang , Li Zhao , Margaryan Donara , Perka Carsten , Trampuz Andrej
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: The programs of enhanced recovery after surgery are the new revolution in surgical departments; however, features of this concept have not been systematically explored. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS)-related research using bibliometric analysis. Materials and Methods: The search strategy of ERAS programs was conducted in the Web of Science database. Bibliometric analysis was further performed by Excel and Bibliometrix software. The relationship between citation counts and Mendeley readers was assessed by linear regression analysis. Results: 8539 studies from 1994–2019 were included in the present research, with reporting studies originating from 91 countries using 18 languages. The United States (US) published the greatest number of articles. International cooperation was discovered in 82 countries, with the most cooperative country being the United Kingdom. Henrik Kehlet was found to have published the highest number of studies. The journal Anesthesia and Analgesia had the largest number of articles. Linear regression analysis presented a strong positive correlation between citations and Mendeley readers. Most research was related to gastrointestinal surgery in this field. Conclusion: This bibliometric analysis shows the current status of ERAS programs from multiple perspectives, and it provides reference and guidance to scholars for further research.
A Comparative Study of Mining Control in Latin America
Authors: Aguilar-Pesantes Alby , Peña Carpio Elizabeth , Vitvar Tomas , Koepke Ronald , Menéndez-Aguado Juan M.
Published: February 2021

This study analyzes various regulatory framework mechanisms applied to prevent, minimize, and mitigate environmental accidents and disasters, within the extractive mining industry, in seven Latin American countries. The selected countries offer an ample view of the mining industry specter since each one of them is at the different development stages, such as Chile, Bolivia, Mexico, and Brazil. Nevertheless, some of the countries have similar technical characteristics, as is the case of Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador. Controls and regulations employed in each of the countries reveal particularities that should be appreciated and understood. In conclusion, the existence of mining regulations has not diminished the occurrence of environmental accidents in those countries. However, the existing environmental controls allow authorities to quantify with substantial precision the degree of impact coming from Latin America’s mining industry. Furthermore, for more than a decade, mining industries have been subjected to several global initiatives to integrate elements of corporative social responsibility into their management systems—mainly in strong cooperation with different governmental formalization programs. The key focus is, cooperation among different scales (industry and small-scale and artisanal mining) which challenged, but also improved the capacities of environmental authorities and the effectiveness of different legal frameworks.
Synthesis of New Naphthyl Aceto Hydrazone-Based Metal Complexes: Micellar Interactions, DNA Binding, Antimicrobial, and Cancer Inhibition Studies
Authors: Ahmad Fawad , Alkahtani Muneera D. F. , Taj Muhammad Babar , Alnajeebi Afnan M. , Alzahrani Seraj Omar , Babteen Nouf Abubakr , Alelwani Walla , Bannunah Azzah M. , Noor Sadia , Ayub Rabia , Tirmizi Syed Ahmad , Alshater Heba
Published: February 2021

In the present study, naphthyl acetohydrazide (HL) ligand was prepared and used for the synthesis of new six amorphous transition metal (Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), Pb(II), Cd(II)) complexes. All the compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, UV-vis, FT-IR, 1H- and 13C-NMR, and Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (MALDI). The solubilization study was carried out by estimating the interaction between the metal complexes with surfactants viz. sodium stearate (SS) and Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). UV-Visible spectroscopy was employed to determine partitioning and binding parameters, whereas electrical conductivity measurements were employed to estimate critical micellar concentration (CMC), the extent of dissociation, and free energy of micellization. The CT-DNA interaction of synthesized compounds with DNA represents the major groove binding. The synthesized ligand and metal complexes were also tested against bacterial and fungal strains and it has been observed that Cu(II) complex is active against all the strains except Candida albicans, while Cd(II) complex is active against all bacterial and fungal strains except Pseudomonas. Among all compounds, only the Pd(II) complex shows reasonable activity against cervical cancer HeLa cell lines, representing 97% inhibition.
Nd(III) and Gd(III) Sorption on Mesoporous Amine-Functionalized Polymer/SiO2 Composite
Authors: Salih Khalid A. M. , Hamza Mohammed F. , Mira Hamed , Wei Yuezhou , Gao Feng , Atta Ayman M. , Fujita Toyohisa , Guibal Eric
Published: February 2021

The strong demand for rare-earth elements (REEs) is driven by their wide use in high-tech devices. New processes have to be developed for valorizing low-grade ores or alternative metal sources (such as wastes and spent materials). The present work contributed to the development of new sorbents for the recovery of rare earth ions from aqueous solutions. Functionalized mesoporous silica composite was synthesized by grafting diethylenetriamine onto composite support. The physical and chemical properties of the new sorbent are characterized using BET, TGA, elemental analysis, titration, FTIR, and XPS spectroscopies to identify the reactive groups (amine groups: 3.25 mmol N g−1 and 3.41 by EA and titration, respectively) and their mode of interaction with Nd(III) and Gd(III). The sorption capacity at the optimum pH (i.e., 4) reaches 0.9 mmol Nd g−1 and 1 mmol Gd g−1. Uptake kinetics are modeled by the pseudo-first-order rate equation (equilibrium time: 30–40 min). At pH close to 4–5, the sorbent shows high selectivity for rare-earth elements against alkali-earth elements. This selectivity is confirmed by the efficient recovery of REEs from acidic leachates of gibbsite ore. After elution (using 0.5 M HCl solutions), selective precipitation (using oxalate solutions), and calcination, pure rare earth oxides were obtained. The sorbent shows promising perspective due to its high and fast sorption properties for REEs, good recycling, and high selectivity.
Viburnum stellato-tomentosum Extract Suppresses Obesity and Hyperglycemia through Regulation of Lipid Metabolism in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice
Authors: Cho Seona , Lee Hwa , Han Jisu , Lee Haneul , Kattia Rosales Ovares , Nelson Zamora Villalobos , Choi Sangho , Kim Soo-Yong , Park Ho-Yong , Jeong Hye Gwang , Jeong Tae-Sook
Published: February 2021

The potential biological activities of Viburnum stellato-tomentosum (VS), a plant mainly found in Costa Rica, have yet to be reported. Supplementation of VS extract for 17 weeks significantly decreased body weight gain, fat weight, fasting glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and triglyceride levels in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed C57BL/6J mice. The molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-obesity and glucose-lowering effects of VS extract were investigated. VS extract suppressed adipocyte hypertrophy by regulating lipogenesis-related CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα) and insulin sensitivity-related peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (Pparg) expression in adipose tissue (AT) and hepatic steatosis by inhibiting C/EBPα and lipid transport-related fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4) expression. VS extract enhanced muscular fatty acid β-oxidation-related AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and PPARα expression with increasing Pparg levels. Furthermore, VS extract contained a much higher content of amentoflavone (AMF) (29.4 mg/g extract) compared to that in other Viburnum species. AMF administration decreased Cebpa and Fabp4 levels in the AT and liver, as well as improved insulin signaling-related insulin receptor substrate 1 (Irs1) and glucose transporter 1 (Glut1) levels in the muscle of HFD-fed mice. This study elucidated the in vivo molecular mechanisms of AMF for the first time. Therefore, VS extract effectively diminished obesity and hyperglycemia by suppressing C/EBPα-mediated lipogenesis in the AT and liver, enhancing PPARα-mediated fatty acid β-oxidation in muscle, and PPARγ-mediated insulin sensitivity in AT and muscle.
Novel Synthetic Routes to Prepare Biologically Active Quinoxalines and Their Derivatives: A Synthetic Review for the Last Two Decades
Authors: Khatoon Hena , Abdulmalek Emilia
Published: February 2021

Quinoxalines, a class of N-heterocyclic compounds, are important biological agents, and a significant amount of research activity has been directed towards this class. They have several prominent pharmacological effects like antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial. Quinoxaline derivatives have diverse therapeutic uses and have become the crucial component in drugs used to treat cancerous cells, AIDS, plant viruses, schizophrenia, certifying them a great future in medicinal chemistry. Due to the current pandemic situation caused by SARS-COVID 19, it has become essential to synthesize drugs to combat deadly pathogens (bacteria, fungi, viruses) for now and near future. Since quinoxalines is an essential moiety to treat infectious diseases, numerous synthetic routes have been developed by researchers, with a prime focus on green chemistry and cost-effective methods. This review paper highlights the various synthetic routes to prepare quinoxaline and its derivatives, covering the literature for the last two decades. A total of 31 schemes have been explained using the green chemistry approach, cost-effective methods, and quinoxaline derivatives’ therapeutic uses.
A Fish-Derived Protein Hydrolysate Induces Postprandial Aminoacidaemia and Skeletal Muscle Anabolism in an In Vitro Cell Model Using Ex Vivo Human Serum
Authors: Lees Matthew J. , Nolan David , Amigo-Benavent Miryam , Raleigh Conor J. , Khatib Neda , Harnedy-Rothwell Pádraigín , FitzGerald Richard J. , Egan Brendan , Carson Brian P.
Published: February 2021

Fish-derived proteins, particularly fish protein hydrolysates (FPH), offer potential as high-quality sources of dietary protein, whilst enhancing economic and environmental sustainability. This study investigated the impact of a blue whiting-derived protein hydrolysate (BWPH) on aminoacidaemia in vivo and skeletal muscle anabolism in vitro compared with whey protein isolate (WPI) and an isonitrogenous, non-essential amino acid (NEAA) control (0.33 g·kg−1·body mass−1) in an ex vivo, in vitro experimental design. Blood was obtained from seven healthy older adults (two males, five females; age: 72 ± 5 years, body mass index: 24.9 ± 1.6 kg·m2) in three separate trials in a randomised, counterbalanced, double-blind design. C2C12 myotubes were treated with ex vivo human serum-conditioned media (20%) for 4 h. Anabolic signalling (phosphorylation of mTOR, p70S6K, and 4E-BP1) and puromycin incorporation were determined by immunoblotting. Although BWPH and WPI both induced postprandial essential aminoacidaemia in older adults above the NEAA control, peak and area under the curve (AUC) leucine and essential amino acids were more pronounced following WPI ingestion. Insulin was elevated above baseline in WPI and BWPH only, a finding reinforced by higher peak and AUC values compared with NEAA. Muscle protein synthesis, as measured by puromycin incorporation, was greater after incubation with WPI-fed serum compared with fasted serum (P = 0.042), and delta change was greater in WPI (P = 0.028) and BWPH (P = 0.030) compared with NEAA. Myotube hypertrophy was greater in WPI and BWPH compared with NEAA (both P = 0.045), but was similar between bioactive conditions (P = 0.853). Taken together, these preliminary findings demonstrate the anabolic potential of BWPH in vivo and ex vivo, thus providing justification for larger studies in older adults using gold-standard measures of acute and chronic MPS in vivo.
Energy, Sugars, Iron, and Vitamin B12 Content of Commercial Infant Food Pouches and Other Commercial Infant Foods on the New Zealand Market
Authors: Katiforis Ioanna , Fleming Elizabeth A , Haszard Jillian J , Hape-Cramond Tiana , Taylor Rachael W , Heath Anne-Louise M
Published: February 2021

There has been an important shift in the New Zealand infant food market over the past decade, with the majority of complementary foods now sold in “pouches”. Along with the increasing market share of commercial infant food pouches internationally, there have been growing concerns about their nutritional quality. However, research examining the nutritional quality of these pouches compared to other forms of commercial infant foods in New Zealand has not been undertaken. Nor have any studies reported the free sugars or added sugars content of these foods. To address this knowledge gap, a cross-sectional survey of infant foods sold in New Zealand supermarkets was conducted in 2019–2020. Recipes and nutrient lines were developed for the 266 foods identified (133 food pouches). The energy, iron, vitamin B12, total sugars, free sugars, and added sugars content of infant food pouches and other forms of commercial infant foods per 100 g were compared, both within food groups and by age group. Infant food pouches contained similar median amounts of energy, iron, and vitamin B12 to other forms of commercial infant foods but contained considerably more total sugars (8.4 g/100 g vs. 2.3 g/100 g). However, median free sugars and added sugars content was very low across all food groups except for “dairy” and “sweet snacks”. All “dry cereals” were fortified with iron whereas none of the infant food pouches were. Therefore, consuming food pouches to the exclusion of other commercial infant foods may place infants at risk of iron deficiency if they do not receive sufficient iron from other sources.
Developing a Vaccine to Block West Nile Virus Transmission: In Silico Studies, Molecular Characterization, Expression, and Blocking Activity of Culex pipiens mosGCTL-1
Authors: Bakhshi Hasan , Fazlalipour Mehdi , Dadgar-Pakdel Javad , Zakeri Sedigheh , Raz Abbasali , Failloux Anna-Bella , Dinparast Djadid Navid
Published: February 2021

Background: Mosquito galactose-specific C-type lectins (mosGCTLs), such as mosGCTL-1, act as ligands to facilitate the invasion of flaviviruses like West Nile virus (WNV). WNV interacts with the mosGCTL-1 of Aedes aegypti (Culicidae) and facilitates the invasion of this virus. Nevertheless, there is no data about the role of mosGCTL-1 as a transmission-blocking vaccine candidate in Culex pipiens, the most abundant Culicinae mosquito in temperate regions. Methods: Adult female Cx. pipiens mosquitoes were experimentally infected with a WNV infectious blood meal, and the effect of rabbit anti-rmosGCTL-1 antibodies on virus replication was evaluated. Additionally, in silico studies such as the prediction of protein structure, homology modeling, and molecular interactions were carried out. Results: We showed a 30% blocking activity of Cx. pipiens mosGCTL-1 polyclonal antibodies (compared to the 10% in the control group) with a decrease in infection rates in mosquitoes at day 5 post-infection, suggesting that there may be other proteins in the midgut of Cx. pipiens that could act as cooperative-receptors for WNV. In addition, docking results revealed that WNV binds with high affinity, to the Culex mosquito lectin receptors. Conclusions: Our results do not support the idea that mosGCTL-1 of Cx. pipiens primarily interacts with WNV to promote viral infection, suggesting that other mosGCTLs may act as primary infection factors in Cx. pipiens.
Nitrogen Fertilization Modified the Responses of Schima superba Seedlings to Elevated CO2 in Subtropical China
Authors: Chen Zhan , Ye Siyuan , Cao Jixin , Shang He
Published: February 2021

There are very few studies about the effects of relatively higher CO2 concentration (e.g., 1000 μmol·mol−1) or plus N fertilization on woody plants. In this study, Schima superba seedings were exposed to ambient or eCO2 (550, 750, and 1000 μmol·mol−1) and N fertilization (0 and 10 g·m−2·yr−1, hereafter: low N, high N, respectively) for one growth season to explore the potential responses in a subtropical site with low soil N availability. N fertilization strongly increased leaf mass-based N by 118.38%, 116.68%, 106.78%, and 138.95%, respectively, in different CO2 treatments and decreased starch, with a half reduction in leaf C:N ratio. Leaf N was significantly decreased by eCO2 in both low N and high N treatments, and N fertilization stimulated the decrease of leaf N and mitigated the increase of leaf C:N by eCO2. In low N treatments, photosynthetic rate (Pn) was maximized at 733 μmol·mol−1 CO2 in August and September, while, in high N treatments, Pn was continuously increased with elevation of CO2. N fertilization significantly increased plant biomass especially at highly elevated CO2, although no response of biomass to eCO2 alone. These findings indicated that N fertilization would modify the response of S. superba to eCO2.
Passive Remote Sensing of Ice Cloud Properties at Terahertz Wavelengths Based on Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Liu Lei , Weng Chensi , Li Shulei , Husi Letu , Hu Shuai , Dong Pingyi
Published: February 2021

Ice clouds play a critical role in the balance of the earth–atmosphere radiation system, but there are some limitations in the existing remote sensing methods for ice clouds. Terahertz wave is expected to be the best waveband for retrieving ice clouds, with terahertz wavelengths in the order of the size of typical ice cloud particles. An inversion method for the remote sensing of ice clouds at terahertz wavelengths based on genetic algorithm is proposed in this paper. First, suitable channel sets in the terahertz band, which are mainly a combination of absorption lines and window regions, are determined. Then, to improve the efficiency of the generation of the retrieval database, based on the brightness temperature simulated by the atmospheric radiative transfer simulator (ARTS) for different cloud parameters, a fast forward operator is constructed using three-dimensional interpolation to simulate the brightness temperature difference between clear sky and a cloudy scene. Finally, an inversion model to retrieve the ice cloud base height, the effective particle diameter and the ice water path is established based on the genetic algorithm, and an analysis of the inversion errors is performed. The results show that the forward operator, constructed by the nearest interpolation, can accurately calculate the brightness temperature difference at a high speed. The proposed inversion method at terahertz wavelengths based on the genetic algorithm can achieve the expected scientific requirement. The absolute error of the cloud height is around 0.2 km, and the absolute error of the low ice water path (below 20 g/m2) is small, while the relative error of the high ice water path is generally maintained at around 10%, and the absolute error of the effective particle diameter is mostly around 4 μm.
Fiber Optic Sensing Technologies for Battery Management Systems and Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Su Yang-Duan , Preger Yuliya , Burroughs Hannah , Sun Chenhu , Ohodnicki Paul
Published: February 2021

Applications of fiber optic sensors to battery monitoring have been increasing due to the growing need of enhanced battery management systems with accurate state estimations. The goal of this review is to discuss the advancements enabling the practical implementation of battery internal parameter measurements including local temperature, strain, pressure, and refractive index for general operation, as well as the external measurements such as temperature gradients and vent gas sensing for thermal runaway imminent detection. A reasonable matching is discussed between fiber optic sensors of different range capabilities with battery systems of three levels of scales, namely electric vehicle and heavy-duty electric truck battery packs, and grid-scale battery systems. The advantages of fiber optic sensors over electrical sensors are discussed, while electrochemical stability issues of fiber-implanted batteries are critically assessed. This review also includes the estimated sensing system costs for typical fiber optic sensors and identifies the high interrogation cost as one of the limitations in their practical deployment into batteries. Finally, future perspectives are considered in the implementation of fiber optics into high-value battery applications such as grid-scale energy storage fault detection and prediction systems.
Intense L-Band Solar Radio Bursts Detection Based on GNSS Carrier-To-Noise Ratio Decrease over Multi-Satellite and Multi-Station
Authors: Yang Fan , Zhu Xuefen , Chen Xiyuan , Lin Mengying
Published: February 2021

Intense solar radio bursts (SRBs) can increase the energy noise and positioning error of the bandwidth of global navigation satellite system (GNSS). The study of the interference from intense L-band SRBs is of great importance to the steady operation of GNSS receivers. Based on the fact that intense L-band SRBs lead to a decrease in the carrier-to-noise ratio (C/N0) of multiple GNSS satellites over a large area of the sunlit hemisphere, an intense L-band SRB detection method without the aid of a radio telescope is proposed. Firstly, the valley period of a single satellite at a single monitoring station is detected. Then, the detection of SRBs is achieved by calculating the intersection of multiple satellites and multiple stations. The experimental results indicate that the detection rates of GPS L2 and GLONASS G2 are better than those of GPS L1 L5, GLONASS G1, and Galileo E1 E5. The detection rate of SRBs can reach 80% with a flux density above 800 solar flux unit (SFU) at the L2 frequency of GPS. Overall, the detection rate is not affected by the satellite distribution relative to the Sun. The proposed detection method is low-cost and has a high detection rate and low false alarm rate. This method is a noteworthy reference for coping with interference in GNSS from intense L-band SRBs.
Windows of Opportunity in the CoPS’s Catch-Up Process: A Case Study of China’s High-Speed Train Industry
Authors: Huang Han , Xiong Jie , Zhang Junfang
Published: February 2021

Over the last 20 years, the rapid development of high-speed Chinese trains has provided valuable guidelines to countries and companies eager to develop their complex product and system (CoPS) sectors. CoPS refers to the high cost and technology-intensive systems, networks, infrastructure and engineering constructs, and services. Although established studies highlight the importance of CoPS to the economy and development of a country, especially those that have yet to develop high-speed rail, scholars have not paid much attention to investigating the catch-up of CoPS industries from the windows of opportunity perspective. We aimed to fill in this research gap by analyzing the successful catch-up of Chinese high-speed trains. Based on a longitudinal case study of this industry, we analyzed and detailed the mechanisms of the catch-up process of a typical CoPS sector and its development. Our results enrich the literature of the catch-up process, CoPS, and the studies of windows of opportunity. In particular, we show that the windows of opportunity that emerge in the catch-up process of CoPS have the characteristics of endogeneity, asymmetry, and relevance. Moreover, our study further indicates that the endogenous windows of opportunity regarding policy result in the development of later windows of technology and demand. We also find that the technology’s windows of opportunity consist of the window to broaden the technology width and the window to deepen the technology depth of latecomers. In addition to theoretical contributions, our findings can help policymakers of latecomer countries better formulate CoPS industrial policies, followed by a gradual progress in successfully catch-up with the leading countries.
Proportionated Distributions in Spatiotemporal Structure of the World Cultural Heritage Sites: Analysis and Countermeasures
Authors: Yao Ya , Wang Xinyuan , Lu Linlin , Liu Chuansheng , Wu Qiang , Ren Hongge , Yang Shu , Sun Ruiqi , Luo Lei , Wu Kai
Published: February 2021

Asia, Europe, and Africa, connected by the maritime silk road (MSR) and the land silk road (LSR), as the cradle of ancient civilizations, contain rich cultural heritage resources. While aiming to achieve differentiated and targeted application, protection, and development of world cultural heritage (WCHS), it is essential to identify the temporal-spatial distribution features of WCHS on these three continents. For these WCHS elements, based on big earth data, we semi-quantitatively describe the features of spatial-temporal distribution, material types, civilization and religion characters, capital investment capacity, and risks by data cleaning, spatial analysis, and risk assessment. Our findings reveal features in these WCHS elements, including temporal and spatial distribution, the amount of different ancient civilizations and cultural diversity, and the need for preservation and funding capacity. Finally, this study’s results indicate that we should take full advantage of the potential of cultural heritage, digital technologies, and the scientific protection of cultural heritage along with the MSR and LSR. Moreover, declarations of heritage in Africa and Central Asia should be extended to realize the precise “poverty alleviation” of WCHS protection in these regions. For further planning of WCHS sites along the Silk Road, we propose countermeasures to protect the global cultural heritage in the future and also provide theoretical guidance and specific scientific implementation directions to “strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage,” as proposed by the United Nations.
Human Resources Training Needs in the Small and Medium Enterprises from Cross-Border Area Romania-Ukraine-Republic of Moldova
Authors: Chașovschi Carmen Emilia , Nastase Carmen , Popescu Mihai , Scutariu Adrian-Liviu , Condratov Iulian-Alexandru
Published: February 2021

The research aim was to identify the training needs of entrepreneurs and employees within small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from the Suceava, Chernivtsi, and Bălți regions, to analyze the specific training practices in the cross-border area, and to identify the common features or the disparities. The research contains an exploratory survey, based on a semi-structured questionnaire that investigates the training needs in the SMEs and specific training practices with a comparative approach. The results relate to the challenges faced by transformation economies and by the specificities of SMEs from these remote areas. Additionally, the research connects the factors involved in planning and delivering training programs for employees in SMEs in this EU peripheral area with the weaknesses of the companies in facing the market competitive economy. The results of the survey disclosed some common features and specificities related to training needs, training responsibilities, and interests in the SMEs from this cross-border area. The discussions are relevant for different categories of stakeholders, at the micro-level, for the management of the companies, but also on a larger scale, in planning the new development programs for the labor market in the targeted areas.
Scaling up Action on Urban Sustainable Food Systems in the United Kingdom: Agenda Setting, Networking, and Influence
Authors: Jones Mat , Hills Sarah
Published: February 2021

There has been an increasing focus on the potential of city-based initiatives to address the negative impacts of the global food system. Adopting a meso-level policy perspective, this study aimed to explore whether, how, and why the UK non-government organisation led Sustainable Food Cities (SFC) programme has influenced this food agenda at the level of city governance. The research fills a gap in our understanding of the detailed processes through which trans-local food networks influence the capacity of local food partnerships to effect change, sustain themselves, and through a collective effort, to shape the attention of national and international decision-makers. Based on documentary evidence from 29 of the most active member cities and interviews with a purposive selection of stakeholders, the analysis suggests that SFC provided a point of origin for solutions and inspiration on a major and complex issue. However, the absence of a national sustainable food policy framework and little formal national-government recognition of local food governance together with the paucity of funding opportunities threatens the long-term viability of local food partnerships and ultimately places significant constraints on the ability of the programme to effect long-lasting, systemic change.
Effect of Fertilization with Urea and Inhibitors on Growth, Yield and CBD Concentration of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)
Authors: Kakabouki Ioanna , Kousta Angeliki , Folina Antigolena , Karydogianni Stella , Zisi Charikleia , Kouneli Varvara , Papastylianou Panayiota
Published: February 2021

Field experiments were conducted during 2019 in two different locations in Greece (Athens and Farsala) to evaluate the effect of urea and urea fertilization with inhibitors on the agronomic yield and quality characteristics of two cannabis varieties (Cannabis sativa L.), “Uso31”and “Fedora 17”. The experimental design was split-plot with four different fertilization treatments—control, Urea (U), urea with Urease Inhibitor (UI), and urea with Nitrification Inhibitor (NI) and urease inhibitor (UI). The significance of differences between treatments was estimated by using Tukey’s test with a significance level of p = 0.05. The plant height was significantly affected by the different fertilizations and different varieties as well as by the two locations. The maximum plant height was 197 cm for “Fedora 17”in Farsala. The seed yield was higher forthe urea with inhibitors treatment in both varieties. The Cannabidiol (CBD) content was significantly affected by the fertilization—it was higher in urea with inhibitors in “Uso31”and “Fedora 17” treatments. The lowest CBD content value was 1.29% (control) and the highest was 1.69% (urea NI + UI). In conclusion, in both varieties, it seems that urea with inhibitors has a positive effect on their growth, as well as on the increase in cannabidiol (CBD) content.
Implementation of a TeamWork-HBIM for the Management and Sustainability of Architectural Heritage
Authors: Nieto-Julián Juan E. , Lara Lenin , Moyano Juan
Published: February 2021

The benefits of Building Information Modelling (BIM) accrue from the needs of the interoperability of applied technologies. This scope is strongly related to heritage buildings. Protection plans encompassing phases of heritage conservation, interpretation, intervention and dissemination could lead to a sustainable model through a TeamWork-HBIM project. This work develops a step by step semantically enriched 3D model, from accurate data acquisition to the creation of a container of artistic assets. TeamWork-HBIM acts as a database for movable assets, i.e., parametric objects (GDL) with graphical and semantic information, which are valid for recording, inventory and cataloguing processes. Thus, heritage properties were created and used to create recording and inventory sheets related to movable assets. Consequently, a parametric object was edited in the HBIM project, so a new category called “Heritage Furniture” was available. Data from the monitoring of the artistic asset were included in that category. In addition, the specialist technicians from the TeamWork-HBIM team catalogued a dataset related to artistic, historical and conservation properties. Another advantage of the system was the reliability of the structure of the HBIM project, which was based on the actual geometry of the building provided by the point clouds. The information was valid for both modelling works and specialists in virtual monitoring. Moreover, the reliability of metadata was collected in a common data environment (CDE), which was available for everyone. As a result, the Teamwork-HBIM-CDE project meets the needs of private institutions, such as the Foundation of the Church of the Company of Jesus in Quito, related to the sustainability of the historic site. This sustainability is shown by the implementation of a methodology that strengthens the interdisciplinary information flow by including all disciplines of historical heritage.
Safety Study on Ketoprofen in Pigs: Evaluating the Effects of Different Dosing and Treatment Scheme on Hematological, Hepatic, and Renal Parameters
Authors: Fazzio Luis , Raggio Santiago , Romero Juan , Membrebe Juver , Minervino Antonio
Published: February 2021

A safety study on ketoprofen 10% was carried out on pigs using a different dosing and treatment scheme. Forty healthy crossbreed pigs with similar age, weight, and body condition score were distributed into five treatment groups. The pigs were intramuscularly injected once with different doses of ketoprofen: 3 mg/kg (group 1X), 6 mg/kg (group 2X), 9 mg/kg (group 3X). In addition, the 3 mg/kg dosis was administered on three consecutive days (group 1X ext.). Intramuscular injections of saline solution were used in control group (CTL). The pigs were clinically examined throughout the trial and blood samples were taken for hematological and biochemical evaluation on days −4 (before treatment), +3, +7, and +14 (the end of the trial). Any unusual behaviour or clinical signs were reported as potential toxic effects of ketoprofen. Serum measurements showed that none of the ketoprofen doses produced changes in renal or hepatic biochemical parameters, liver enzymes, or total bilirubin. Likewise, hematological assessment indicated no altered parameters or hematocrit percentage in the study groups. These results demonstrate that ketoprofen has no adverse effects in pigs when the doses and scheme evaluated in this study are applied.
Constraints on the performance and competitiveness of Tanzania’s manufacturing exports
Authors: Misati Roseline , Ngoka Kethi
Published: February 2021

This study sought to examine the main constraints to manufacturing export competitiveness in Tanzania. Using panel data for the period 1997–2018, the study established that supply-side factors dominate demand-side factors in explaining manufacturing export competitiveness. Specifically, the results revealed that foreign direct investment and tariffs have a negative and significant effect on export competitiveness in Tanzania, while infrastructure, total investment, labour productivity, and high institutional quality enhance manufactured exports. The study also showed scope for quality upgrading through technology diffusion as well as deeper integration of Tanzania’s nascent global value chains by building on existing competencies and negotiating deep trade agreements to increase market reach. Accordingly, measures to increase investment in infrastructure, strengthen institutional frameworks, and further develop human capital can boost export competitiveness in Tanzania. In addition, export competitiveness can be enhanced through reduction of tariffs and incentives to use cheaper value-adding intermediate inputs.
Valoración nutricional y características sociodemográficas de adolescentes escolarizados
Authors: Posso-López Doménica Vanesa , Posso-López Giovanna Paulina
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: Realizar la evaluación del estado nutricional y sus características sociodemográficas de los adolescentes de la Unidad Educativa Alberto Enríquez, Imbabura, Atuntaqui, Ecuador Método: Se utilizó el enfoque cuantitativo de tipo descriptivo y corte transversal, con una población en estudio de 66 adolescentes. Resultados: Predominio en el sexo femenino con un 60.6% frente al sexo masculino con el 39,4%, con un predominio en la etnia mestiza con el 71,2%. Con respecto a la evaluación nutricional dietética se evidenció que existe un gran consumo de sal, grasas, cereales y frutas, con un bajo consumo de hortalizas y tubérculos. Conclusión: El consumo elevado de grasas y sal puede afectar el normal desarrollo y crecimiento de los adolescentes, el mismo que predispone al desarrollo de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles.
Actitud comunitaria en la prevención del contagio por COVID-19
Authors: Durán-Ávila Narcisa Liliana , Esmeralda-Pincay Virginia , Zamora-Cevallos Ángel Luis , Alcázar-Pichucho Tania Mercedes
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: El estudio de la actitud comunitaria en la prevención del contagio por COVID -19 del Cantón de Jipijapa. Metodología: de enfoque cuantitativo y una tipología descriptiva con un diseño no experimental, de campo y transaccional. La población la constituyeron 250 habitantes de las comunidades del Cantón de Jipijapa.  Conclusión: Fue posible evidenciar que un alto porcentaje de las personas investigadas asumen una actitud comunitaria asociada al cumplimiento de las medidas de prevención implementadas por el sistema de salud y la región, lo cual puede verse entorpecido por la actitud individual de los habitantes, dado el desconocimiento de la evolución de la epidemia y su incidencia en los grupos vulnerables de las comunidades afectadas.
Transversalidad de las Ciencias Sociales en el desarrollo de las Ciencias de la Salud y de la vida
Authors: Ojeda-de-López Dra. Juana Cecilia
Published: February 2021

Transversalidad de las Ciencias Sociales en el desarrollo de las Ciencias de la Salud y de la vida
An Approach to the Teaching of Architectural History
Authors:   University of Pretoria, Bakker Karel
Published: February 2021

The questions posed by this paper are whether a different approach to the teaching of Architectural History might assist an evolving process of cultural co-construction which transcends the confines of ideologies posed by power ecologies, and whether there is need for a peculiar, context specific approach to teaching Architectural History in South Africa (A society currently involved in an evolutionary process of social Reconstruction and Development)?
The Position of Humanities in the Curriculumn of Architects and Urban Planners
Authors:   Technical University of Brno, Schmeidler Karel
Published: February 2021

The place of sociology and related humanities in the curriculum of the Faculty of Architecture of the Technical University of Brno and other schools of architecture in the Czech Republic. Critical comments on the present situation. Sociology as a counterpart to the technically – oriented and limited approach of fine arts? Linlung to other subjects, continuity, optimisation of tuition in the present and future system of professional education.
Towards a Reinterpretation of the So-Called Brazialian Neo-Classical Architecture
Authors:   Federal University of Paraiba, Sousa Alberto J.
Published: February 2021

Brazilian architectura d historians have identified in Brazilian architecture a style of classicist nature, adopted during the period ranging broadly from 1810, which has been regarded as the Brazilian version of European Neo-classicism – and therefore has been named Neo-classical – and as a language derived mainly from French models. The have said, at the same time, that the French architect Grandjean de Montigny (who lived in Rio de Janeiro from 18 16 until his death in 1850) was the main propagator of that style and also the most prominent of the designers who made use of it. A careful research that I undertook during more than two years led me to an understanding which differs from these views.
The Care of Time
Authors:   Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Poole Scott
Published: February 2021

An aspect of contemporary life, which appears to be growing as this century comes to a close, is an obsessive urgency in the present. Images of speed from the world of technology dominate our consciousness and suggest, by implication, that haste itself is basic to human existence. ‘Velocity,’ it seems, is the dominant and foregone conclusion.
Islamic Perspectives On Character Education
Authors: Felta Felta
Published: February 2021

Karakter merupakan pilar utama dalam memajukan manusia tangguh, baik secara individu maupun kelompok. Dalam Islam, karakter lebih baik dikenal sebagai akhlaq Nabi ketika dia diutus sebagai utusan Allah di bumi. Didasarkan pada semangat pendidikan karakter saat ini, Makalah ini mengulas tentang bagaimana pendidikan karakter yang sebenarnya Islam. Padahal pendidikan karakter dalam Islam sedang terbentuk dalam istilah akhlakul karimah. Berdasarkan aspek metodologis. Metode pembiasaan dan keteladanan adalah cara terbaik untuk berkarakterpendidikan, yang membiasakan hal-hal baik hingga dianggap sebagai budaya dengan pikiran, perasaan dan tindakan. Dan Contoh hal yang baik kepada siswa sehingga nilai-nilai itu ditransfer ke dalam jiwa mereka, maka itu akan terjadi menghasilkan pengetahuan, serta terwujud dalam tindakan.
Sosialisasi Edukasi Literasi Keuangan Pasar Modal Bagi Masyarakat Kelurahan Srengseng Sawah Kecamatan Jagakarsa Jakarta Selatan
Authors: Nawasiah Nana , Freddy Hotman , Prakoso Roy
Published: February 2021

Public awareness, interest and knowledge of the Capital Market is still very low. In an effort to introduce to the public related activities in the capital market, socialization activities are needed. Capital Market Socialization was carried out in the Srengseng Sawah Village District of Jagakarsa District, which was the first activity of capital market socialization. This capital market socialization is one of the education programs which is expected to increase public awareness and interest in the capital market, so that the number of investors in Indonesia can increase and the investment climate becomes better to improve the Indonesian economy. In addition, the community is getting smarter in investing their funds, and is expected to provide benefits for family welfare.
Pemberdayaan Santri untuk Kemandirian Keuangan Ponpes melalui Fundraising & Pelatihan E-commerce
Authors: Kaban Reny Fitriana , Hadiyati Puji , Prihandini Wiwiek
Published: February 2021

Empowerment for orphan and poor students in Islamic Boarding School Hidayatulah at Bojongilir, Bogor needs to be done by Community Engagement team of Perbanas Institute. This effort has been done by fundraising and e-commerce training in order to create financial independence of the boarding school. The methode for the fundraising is as follows: 1). Collect data on the needs of boarding schools and the students, namely personal computers (PCs) and 200 portable tables for learning process. 2).Look for funding sources from outside the campus to improve the procurement of these stuffs. 3). Submit the community engagement proposals to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of PT Waskita Karya and HIbah Ristek Dikti Program 2018. While provide assistance in e-commerce training is to support entrepreneurial activities, such as raising patin/ tilapia/catfish and making dried potatoes in packs in order to be marketed in modern way. The training was given in two stages with material themes “Digital Entrepreneur in the Industrial Age 4.0 For Students” and “How to Transact in E-commerce”. Before and after training the participants were given a test to determine the level of knowledge about e-commerce. At the end of the training a satisfaction survey was conducted on the training for the participants. This training has a positive impact on increasing the digital marketing motivation, knowledge and skills of the students.
Pemetaan Potensi Ekonomi Berbasis Budaya Usaha Mikro Kecil Menengah Setu Babakan
Authors: Mulyadi  , Tuzzahara Alkaf Fatima
Published: February 2021

This activity is carried out with the aim as a form of community service for the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Pancasila, while participants participating in this service are expected to be able to achieve (1) Maximize their potential, (2) increase their knowledge and ability in managing their businesses, (3) build confidence to succeed as an SME actor and (4) develop awareness of the potential of tourism villages with cultural diversity and traditional culinary. From the results of the mapping of these activities, the MSMEs Setu Babakan Srengseng Sawah Jagakarsa South Jakarta has the potential to be developed. Because Setu Babakan is a cultural attraction based on Betawi that continues to grow. The products produced by Setu Babakan MSMEs are products based on local culture both culinary (pletok beer, laksa, egg crust, crocodile bread, other Betawi special foods), processing and other services and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are mostly businesses which was pioneered from generation to generation. This can be known by the business they started more than 10 or 20 years ago.
Asistensi Akuntansi Keuangan Desa Marga Mulya
Authors: Bayu Kristanto Septian
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study is to identify problems related to management of the village fund and to provide a guidance of village fund management. This study is conducted in Marga Mulya village in Tanjung Kait, Tangerang. This study used observation and interview method. The result showed that the main problem related to village fund is the lack of knowledge of the village head in implementing financial management of village fund based on Regulation No. 113/2015. It is coupled with a lack of facilitators from Government officers to assist the management of the village fund. This study purposed a computerized system for implementing the financial report is the solution to overcome these obstacles. By using this computerized system, reporting village fund will be done quickly and the financial statements will also be more reliable than reporting manually.
Micromagnetics of Nd–Fe–B magnets at finite temperature
Authors: Bao Lingbo , Wei Dan , Yun Guohong , Cao Yongjun , Bai Narsu
Published: February 2021

A three-dimensional micromagnetic model for Nd–Fe–B magnets, where the polycrystalline grain size and grain boundary width are adjustable, is built to calculate the finite temperature magnetic properties by the Hybrid Monte Carlo method. At 300 K, it is found that the increase of the energy product (BH)max of Nd–Fe–B is mainly contributed by the higher saturation magnetization M
s. M–H loops are simulated from 300 to 450 K, and the measured temperature-dependent coercivity H
c(T) and remanence M
r(T) are explained quantitatively and fit well with experiments.