bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Papaya (Carica papaya L.) Leaf Area Estimation and Single-leaf Net Photosynthetic CO2 Assimilation Rate Following Leaf Defoliation and Fruit Thinning
Authors: Zhou Lili , Reyes Maria Eloisa Q. , Paull Robert E.
Published: October 2020

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) leaves are large, up to 70 cm wide, and frequently deeply lobed, with seven to 13 major veins. The scan width of current handheld digital leaf area instruments is generally less than 15 cm. A rapid method is needed to estimate the total leaf area of a plant in the field with leaves at different stages of growth from the apex. The length of the main and side veins of papaya leaves can be used to estimate the area of a single leaf and the total leaf area of the plant. The relationship between main vein lengths and total leaf area was determined for mature leaves from the cultivars Sunset, Line-8, and Kapoho. A simple relationship exists between leaf area and the length of the two main side midribs (L3 and L4): Leaf area (cm2) = −2280 + 87.7*L3 + 55.6*L4 (P > F = 0.0001; r2 = 0.969), explaining ≈94% of the variation between estimated leaf area and leaf area. The most recently matured leaf is the third or fourth discernable leaf from the apex, with a positive net photosynthetic CO2 assimilation rate and an average area of 2331 cm2 that could fix up to 1.6 g carbon per 10-hour day under full sun. The rate of photosynthesis declined with leaf age, and the overall net photosynthetic CO2 assimilation rate of the plant can be predicted. Following 80% leaf defoliation of the plant, the net photosynthetic CO2 assimilation rate of the most recently matured leaf increased 30% to 50% on days 11 and 19 after treatment when the photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) was approximately half of that on day 15 under full sun when no difference in net photosynthetic CO2 assimilation rate was seen. Fruit removal did not affect the net photosynthetic CO2 assimilation rate. Papaya adjusts its single-leaf net photosynthetic CO2 assimilation rate under lower light levels to meet plant growth and fruit sink demand.
Análise da inclusão da educação ambiental no processo de licenciamento de empreendimentos no sul do Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil
Authors: Sousa Amanda Domingas Ediodato de , Freire Cleir Ferraz , Silva Felipe Zauli da , Correa Fernando da Costa , Imperador Adriana Maria , Botezelli Luciana
Published: October 2020

O licenciamento ambiental é uma exigência legal administrativa a partir da qual o Poder Público promove o controle ambiental e dentro deste processo é obrigatório a inserção de programas de Educação Ambiental. Visando a verificar a efetividade e importância dadas ao tema nos empreendimentos licenciados com Estudo de Impacto Ambiental (EIA) e respectivo Relatório de Impacto Ambiental (RIMA) no sul de Minas Gerais foram consultadas as informações indicadas pela Secretaria de Estado de Meio Ambiente e Desenvolvimento Sustentável de Minas Gerais dos processos de licenciamento desta modalidade entre os anos de 2015 e 2019. A partir das informações fornecidas foi realizada a sistematização e tabulação dos dados encontrados relacionados a aspectos de educação ambiental. Apesar de 28% dos empreendimentos não citar ou abordar a temática nos processos, muitos dos demais não dispunham de um projeto consistente neste tema. Mesmo com experiências negativas de desastres ambientais no Estado de Minas Gerais demonstrando a importância da educação ambiental nos processos de licenciamento e que a exigência de um programa robusto neste sentido continua sendo negligenciado.
Emergence of PT-symmetry breaking in open quantum systems
Authors: Huber Julian , Kirton Peter , Rotter Stefan , Rabl Peter
Published: October 2020

The effect of \mathcal{PT}𝒫𝒯-symmetry
breaking in coupled systems with balanced gain and loss has recently
attracted considerable attention and has been demonstrated in various
photonic, electrical and mechanical systems in the classical regime.
However, it is still an unsolved problem how to generalize the concept
of \mathcal{PT}𝒫𝒯
symmetry to the quantum domain, where the conventional definition in
terms of non-Hermitian Hamiltonians is not applicable. Here we introduce
a symmetry relation for Liouville operators that describe the
dissipative evolution of arbitrary open quantum systems. Specifically,
we show that the invariance of the Liouvillian under this symmetry
transformation implies the existence of stationary states with preserved
and broken parity symmetry. As the dimension of the Hilbert space grows,
the transition between these two limiting phases becomes increasingly
sharp and the classically expected \mathcal{PT}𝒫𝒯-symmetry
breaking transition is recovered. This quantum-to-classical
correspondence allows us to establish a common theoretical framework to
identify and accurately describe \mathcal{PT}𝒫𝒯-symmetry
breaking effects in a large variety of physical systems, operated both
in the classical and quantum regimes.
Conductas adictivas al juego Fortnite: evidencias experimentales de ejercicios de relajación en escolares
Authors: Holguin-Alvarez Jhon , Andrade Paredes Pool
Published: October 2020

El comportamiento adictivo digital en la actualidad se ha incrementado en el público escolar en los últimos años, sobre todo en la adicción hacia los videojuegos. Este estudio se interesó por indagar en la reducción de las conductas adictivas hacia el juego Fortnite mediante una técnica de relajación basada en el método Koeppen. Se empleó un diseño de tipo preexperimental de investigación en 70 niños (χ = 10.8 años) de nivel socio económico medio bajo, utilizando encuestas preliminares para determinar la selección de los sujetos consumidores; para la medición aplicamos el test de dependencia hacia los videojuegos – TDV y el cuestionario de experiencias relacionadas con los videojuegos - CERV. Se concluyó como primera evidencia que los sujetos redujeron sus conductas compensatorias (dependencia y evasión), a su vez, el tiempo de permanencia en el consumo (horas y lugares) se redujo considerablemente. Sin embargo, las evidencias en la reducción de emociones hacia el juego permitieron aducir que la técnica de Koeppen presentó efectos reductivos del estrés escolar sin influir en la emocionalidad, debido a que los hallazgos describieron datos poco significativos para el estudio.
GIS-based MCDA for Gully Vulnerability Mapping Using AHP Techniques
Authors: Bashir Ishaku , Sallau Rachel , Sheikh Abubakar , Aminu Zuni , Hassan Shu’aib
Published: October 2020

This paper explores the potentiality of GIS-based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) for gully vulnerability mapping. Multilayer information of basin characteristics, such as drainage density, Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), Stream Power Index (SPI), slope aspect and land use land cover (LULC), were used in this study to develop a Gully Vulnerability Index (GVI). A weighted approach was implemented on each criterion relative to their inferred influence on gully vulnerability and validated by determining the Consistency Ratio (CR). Findings show a varying magnitude of gully vulnerability across the study area. The low to medium gully vulnerability class was dominant covering a land area of 6557ha (21.25%), and mostly confined to developed areas. Still, it is noteworthy to observe that the severe gully vulnerability class covers a substantial land area of 5825ha (18.88%), which presents a great risk to infrastructural development and human settlements in the study area. The study has a model predictive capability with accuracy rate of 84.62%. The integration of the MCDA and AHP into GIS workflow is an effective approach critical to minimize the limitations associated with gully occurrence analysis, using a singular basin characteristic. The results obtained in the study will equally be important in determining gully risk zones, circumspect urban development, tracking and proper infrastructure construction plans for long-term gully disaster mitigation.
O ENFRENTAMENTO DAS OPRESSÕES DE GÊNERO NUMA UNIVERSIDADE PÚBLICA: O PAPEL DOS COLETIVOS NA ÓTICA DO FEMINISMO DECOLONIAL
Authors: Amaral Isabela Grossi , Naves Flávia
Published: October 2020

Esse trabalho discute qual o papel dos coletivos feministas no enfrentamento das opressões de gênero no âmbito da universidade pública. Esta reflexão ocorre por meio do feminismo decolonial, que desconstrói opressões convergindo questões de gênero, raça, classe, assumindo um ponto de vista não eurocêntrico. A abordagem da pesquisa é qualitativa, caracterizando-se como descritiva e explicativa. Foram realizadas entrevistas entre fases de observações, seguindo com uma interpretação compreensiva nas análises. Teve papel central na pesquisa o conhecimento das mulheres sobre a atuação dos coletivos e enfrentamentos como: o poder e hierarquia na sala de aula; o corpo subalterno; a culpa; o silenciamento; autoafirmação e a auto-opressão relacionadas de forma interseccional. Os coletivos são espaços de refúgio, aconselhamento e suporte para mulheres, rompendo com estruturas opressivas.
Optimal design parameters of air suspension systems for semi-trailer truck. Part 1: modeling and algorithm
Authors: Tuan Nguyen Van , Quynh Le Van , Thao Vi Thi Phuong , Duy Le Quang
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this paper is to improve the performance of air suspension systems for a semi-trailer truck in the direction of reducing the dynamic wheel load acting on road surface (Part 1: modeling and algorithm). To achieve the goal of finding the optimal design parameters for the air suspension systems, a half-vehicle dynamic model under the road-vehicle interaction with 12 degrees of freedom (d.o.f) is established for searching the optimal design parameters of vehicle suspensions using genetic algorithm (GA). Dynamic load coefficient (DLC) is considered as a target function. Two optimal conditions: optimal design of geometrical parameters of air spring suspension systems (Case 1) and optimal design of parameters of air suspension systems (Case 2) are selected in this study. The results of this paper are the basis for optimization and discussion in Part 2 as the results and discussion.
Optimal design parameters of air suspension systems for semi-trailer truck. Part 2: results and discussion
Authors: Tuan Nguyen Van , Quynh Le Van , Thao Vi Thi Phuong , Duy Le Quang
Published: October 2020

Based on the results of model and algorithm in Part1 for searching the optimal design parameters of vehicle suspensions using genetic algorithm, in Part 2, the simulation results with MATLAB Simulink combined with an optimal program are written to search the optimal design parameters of vehicle air suspension systems in two optimal conditions. The optimal results indicate that the DLC values at all axles of vehicle respectively reduce by 9.09 %, 10.71 %, 11.11%, 10.81 %, 8.82 % (in Case 1) and 14.29 %, 19.23 %, 20.00 %, 17.14 %, 12.12 % (in Case 2) in comparison with the original air suspension systems when vehicle moves on the ISO class C road surface at v= 20 m/s and full load. All these things indicate that using the genetic algorithm optimization method does not only reduce the tire dynamic loads acting on road surface but also improves the ride comfort. Finally, the optimum performance of vehicle suspension systems is considered and reassessed under different operating conditions. The evaluation results indicate that the optimum performance of the air suspension systems has better potential to improve the road friendliness which provides a ride comfort for road surfaces and vehicle.
Effect of electric battery mass distribution on electric vehicle movement safety
Authors: Wang Peiling
Published: October 2020

In order to increase the stability and movement safety of electric vehicles (EV) under various operation conditions, the battery mass distribution on the EV floor and its load dynamics are concerned in this study. An EV dynamic model with the different battery mass distributions on the EV floor is established and investigated. The EV dynamic equations are then solved via the Simulink model built on Matlab software. The acceleration responses at centre of gravity of the EV and wheel dynamics are two objective functions for evaluating the EV movement safety. The research results show that the optimal position of the battery mass distribution on the EV floor and the ratio between the battery mass and the EV body mass should be reached with x from 1.2 to 1.4 m and λ≤ 0.6, and the EV’s velocity should be from 20 to 35 m/s, therefore, the EV movement safety is remarkably improved.
Multiscale attribution analysis for assessing effects of changing environment on runoff: case study of the Upstream Yangtze River in China
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wang Manlin , Chen Juan , Zhong Ping-an , Wu Xiufeng , Wu Shiqiang
Published: October 2020

Evaluating the changes in runoff and analyzing its attribution under the changing environment is of great significance to water resources management. In this study, eight hydrological stations at the outlets of tributaries of the Upstream Yangtze River are selected. Based on the observed runoff data from 1951 to 2013, the spatial-temporal characteristics in runoff change are identified from time series analysis. Our results show that runoff in the Upstream Yangtze River decreases significantly with a rate of −7.6 km3 per ten years in general. The most significant declines in runoff are observed in the mainstream, Minjiang River, Tuojiang River, and Jialing River, while slight increase in runoff is found in the source area of the Yangtze River. Furthermore, the effects on runoff change from climate change and human activities are evaluated using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and modified Fixing-Changing (MFC) method at multiple scales. Our results suggest that the main contributions to runoff change are from climate change variabilities (70%), land use/cover change (LUCC, 10%), and other human influence (20%). When examined at different spatial and temporal scales, climate change always appears to be the main cause of runoff change, although its contribution decreases over time.
Spatio-temporal variation of nitrate and nitrite levels in groundwater samples
from Romania
Authors: Pirvu Florinela , Paun Iuliana , Chiriac Florentina Laura , Niculescu Marcela , Vasilache Nicoleta , Pascu Luoana Florentina , Galaon Toma
Published: October 2020

This study investigated the spatial and temporal distribution of nitrate and nitrite concentration in groundwater from different geographical regions, in Romania. A special emphasis was put on a descriptive statistical analysis of data, namely on the determination of seasonal indices during dry and wet seasons. Nitrate and nitrite concentrations were monitored in 24 groundwater sources situated in different areas,
between January 2016 and February 2020. The obtained data showed that the values of nitrate concentrations were situated between 8.03 mg/L in the North-Eastern part of Romania, 6.37 mg/L in the South-Eastern part of the country, and 3.55 mg/L in the
Western part towards the center of the country. Nitrite concentration values were situated under the national maximum admitted limit, 0.5 mg/L, in all the investigated areas. The obtained data shows small changes in water quality during the monitoring period, which leads to the conclusion that, in this long interval of time, there were no significant groundwater contaminations with nitrate and nitrite. For adequate control of water pollution and rigorous management of groundwater sources, seasonal indices were calculated.
Acid neutralizing capacity, an important waste management parameter
Authors:   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Cernica Georgiana , Catrina Gina Alina , Arama Georgeta Madalina , Serbanescu Agnes , Cuciureanu Adriana , Stanescu Bogdan
Published: October 2020

The paper presents the influence of acid neutralization capacity in industrial waste samples as a decision indicator. For the analysis of the acid neutralization capacity, six samples of wastes from different sectors of activity were subjected. A successful method that can be applied to determine the properties of waste is acidneutralizing capacity. The acid-neutralizing capacity was evaluated with HCl 1 N by neutralizing the excess with NaOH 0.5 N after 15 min stirring. From the results obtained it is found that the acid neutralization capacity can provide essential information for the subsequent management of the waste.
Os corpos do poema: as aporias do lugar de fala em um texto da Escrita Não Criativa
Authors: Abreu Luis Felipe Silveira de
Published: October 2020

This article begins by reading “The Body of Michael Brown”, by Kenneth Goldsmith. An exemplary text of Uncreative Writing, the poem opens a field of thought on the theory and practice of copy and appropriation writings. Through the construction of the text and its reception, with criticisms of a political nature, we were able to identify the place and responsibilities of the enunciation as proble-ms dear to the poetics of the unoriginal. In order to study how this problem is constituted, we take as object the statements of the texts involved in the event of this poem. We resume, from it, the conceptual basis of Uncreative Writing. Oppose to this, we read theories that dispute “the problem of speaking for others”, such as Spivak and Alcoff. Among the contradictions of these perspectives, it ends up showing an instability of appropriation, as well as the need to study it in a broader, post-autonomous context, which takes into account its contexts and effects.
Yoga to Reduce Leisure Constraints for Residents of Assisted Living Facilities
Authors: Adams Em V. ,   Herbert H. Lehman College, Bronx, NY , USA ; E- Mail: emilie.adams@lehman.cuny.edu,   Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA,   Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO , USA, Puymbroeck Marieke Van , Crowe Brandi M. , Pury Cynthia L. S. , Schmid Arlene A.
Published: October 2020

Residents of assisted living facilities face leisure constraints (barriers to leisure activities) at higher rates than their community-dwelling peers. Past research suggests yoga may be an effective intervention to decrease leisure constraints to physical activity. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of an eight-week yoga intervention on the leisure constraints of residents of assisted living facilities. The study employed a convergent mixed methods design to assess the impact of a 50-minute group yoga intervention, offered twice a week for eight weeks by a Certified Yoga Therapist. The intervention was implemented at four different assisted living facilities in the Southeastern United States. Pre- and post-quantitative measures were collected to assess overall leisure constraints, limitations in functional fitness, and pain interference. Qualitative data were collected via focus groups post-yoga intervention to determine participants’ perspectives on changes in leisure constraints. A total of 15 participants completed the study. Data analysis revealed significant improvements in two of the four functional fitness measures: upper body endurance (measured by the Arm Curl Test), and trunk stability (measured by the Function in Sitting Test). No significant improvements were observed in pain interference, or overall leisure constraints. Qualitative results indicated participants used yoga to help engage in daily activities such as housework, sleeping, and walking. Additionally, participants reported using yoga to help manage pain. In this sample, yoga appears to be a promising intervention to help reduce specific leisure constraints such as a reduction in functional fitness. Additionally, yoga shows some promise as a pain management strategy, warranting further research.
Directly Observed Therapy to Measure Adherence to Tuberculosis Medication in Observational Research: Protocol for a Prospective Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ragan Elizabeth J , Gill Christopher J , Banos Matthew , Bouton Tara C , Rooney Jennifer , Horsburgh Charles R , Warren Robin M , Myers Bronwyn , Jacobson Karen R
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

A major challenge for prospective, clinical tuberculosis (TB) research is accurately defining a metric for measuring medication adherence.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to design a method to capture directly observed therapy (DOT) via mobile health carried out by community workers. The program was created specifically to measure TB medication adherence for a prospective TB cohort in Western Cape Province, South Africa.

METHODS

Community workers collect daily adherence data on mobile smartphones. Participant-level adherence, program-level adherence, and program function are systematically monitored to assess DOT program implementation. A data dashboard allows for regular visualization of indicators. Numerous design elements aim to prevent or limit data falsification and ensure study data integrity.

RESULTS

The cohort study is ongoing and data collection is in progress. Enrollment began on May 16, 2017, and as of January 12, 2021, a total of 236 participants were enrolled. Adherence data will be used to analyze the study’s primary aims and to investigate adherence as a primary outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

The DOT program includes a mobile health application for data collection as well as a monitoring framework and dashboard. This approach has potential to be adapted for other settings to improve the capture of medication adherence in clinical TB research.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02840877; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02840877
Peer Review of “A Machine Learning Explanation of the Pathogen-Immune Relationship of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), and a Model to Predict Immunity and Therapeutic Opportunity: A Comparative Effectiveness Research Study” (Preprint)
Authors: Abbott Eric
Published: October 2020

UNSTRUCTURED

This is a peer review report.
Mortality Prediction of Patients With Cardiovascular Disease Using Medical Claims Data Under Artificial Intelligence Architectures: Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Tran Linh , Chi Lianhua , Bonti Alessio , Abdelrazek Mohamed , Chen Yi-Ping Phoebe
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the greatest health problem in Australia, which kills more people than any other disease and incurs enormous costs for the health care system. In this study, we present a benchmark comparison of various artificial intelligence (AI) architectures for predicting the mortality rate of patients with CVD using structured medical claims data. Compared with other research in the clinical literature, our models are more efficient because we use a smaller number of features, and this study could help health professionals accurately choose AI models to predict mortality among patients with CVD using only claims data before a clinic visit.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to support health clinicians in accurately predicting mortality among patients with CVD using only claims data before a clinic visit.

METHODS

The data set was obtained from the Medicare Benefits Scheme and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme service information in the period between 2004 and 2014, released by the Department of Health Australia in 2016. It included 346,201 records, corresponding to 346,201 patients. A total of five AI algorithms, including four classical machine learning algorithms (logistic regression [LR], random forest [RF], extra trees [ET], and gradient boosting trees [GBT]) and a deep learning algorithm, which is a densely connected neural network (DNN), were developed and compared in this study. In addition, because of the minority of deceased patients in the data set, a separate experiment using the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) was conducted to enrich the data.

RESULTS

Regarding model performance, in terms of discrimination, GBT and RF were the models with the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (97.8% and 97.7%, respectively), followed by ET (96.8%) and LR (96.4%), whereas DNN was the least discriminative (95.3%). In terms of reliability, LR predictions were the least calibrated compared with the other four algorithms. In this study, despite increasing the training time, SMOTE was proven to further improve the model performance of LR, whereas other algorithms, especially GBT and DNN, worked well with class imbalanced data.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with other research in the clinical literature involving AI models using claims data to predict patient health outcomes, our models are more efficient because we use a smaller number of features but still achieve high performance. This study could help health professionals accurately choose AI models to predict mortality among patients with CVD using only claims data before a clinic visit.
On the verge of a new era in tobacco control: determining the perceptions and attitudes of IQOS users in Turkey (Preprint)
Authors: Uznay Fatih , Gumus Sevtap
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

IQOS is a heated tobacco product which has been spreading worldwide. The manufacturer of the product claims that IQOS is less harmful than conventional cigarettes.

OBJECTIVE

This study determined the perceptions and attitudes of IQOS users in Turkey and evaluated the possible impacts of heated tobacco products (HTPs) on tobacco control policies and their implementation in the future.

METHODS

HTPs are banned in Turkey. However, obtaining IQOS in the black market is easy. We conducted a survey consisting of 30 questions by reaching 100 IQOS users within 13 months in the city of Izmir. We used descriptive statistics to analyse the data.

RESULTS

Of the 100 IQOS users surveyed, (1) 98% stated that IQOS is less harmful than conventional cigarettes (CC); (2) 98% experienced positive changes to their health after completely switching to IQOS from CC; (3) 76% used IQOS in closed spaces; (4) 82% did not reduce their daily tobacco consumption; (5) 62% stated that IQOS encourages ex-smokers to relapse; (6) 80% stated that IQOS stimulates children and young people to start smoking; (7) 86% stated that the smoking satisfaction from IQOS is very close/equal to that from CC; (8) 56% stated that IQOS makes a positive contribution to their personal image; and (9) 40% claimed that quitting IQOS can be easier than quitting CC.

CONCLUSIONS

HTPs could cause the tobacco epidemic to grow by undermining smokers’ efforts to quit and encouraging ex-smokers, children and young people to start smoking. The idea that IQOS is less harmful than CC, together with the emerging misleading suggestion that nicotine may block COVID-19 symptoms, could trigger the proliferation of HTPs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Diminished Protective Effects of Household Income on Internalizing Symptoms among African American than European American Pre-Adolescents
Authors: Assari Shervin , Islam Sondos
Published: October 2020

Aim: To investigate the differential role of race on the effect of household income on pre-adolescents’ internalizing symptoms in a national sample of U.S. pre-adolescents. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that used data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. Wave 1 ABCD data included 5,913 adolescents between ages 9 and 10 years old. The independent variable was household income. The primary outcome was internalizing symptoms measured by the teacher report of the Brief Problem Monitor (BPM) scale. Results: Overall, high household income was associated with lower levels of pre-adolescents internalizing symptoms. Race showed statistically significant interaction with household income on pre-adolescents’ internalizing symptoms, controlling for all confounders, indicating weaker protective effect of high household income on internalizing symptoms for African American than European pre-adolescents. Conclusion: High household income is a more salient protective factor against internalizing symptoms of socially privileged European American pre-adolescents than of historically marginalized African Americans pre-adolescents. Elimination of internalizing behavioral gaps across racial groups requires more than equalizing socioeconomic status. Future research should study the moderating role of institutional and structural racism experienced by African American families across all income levels. Such research may explain why pre-adolescent African Americans with high household income remain at high risk of internalizing symptoms.
Safety attitudes and behavioral intentions of municipal waste disposal drivers
Authors: Stephen Swartz M , Douglas Matthew A
Published: October 2020

The Theory of Planned Behavior was used to study factors useful for predicting Behavioral Intentions to commit unsafe acts while driving for commercial drivers working for municipal waste management operations centers. The Theory of Planned Behavior was found to be moderately effective in predicting behavioral intentions, particularly through the constructs of Attitude and Perceived Control. Driver perceptions of safety climate, self-assessed personal safety performance, risk aversion, and attitudes toward behavioral factors associated with engaging in risky behaviors while operating motor vehicles were studied. Risk aversion and driver perception of their own safety performance were also useful predictors of intention.
An exploratory analysis of factors driving intermodal transportation usage
Authors: Evers Philip T , Emerson Carol J
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study is to investigate certain aspects of a transportation choice model proposed by Krapfel and Mentzer (1982) pertaining to the influence of shipper perceptions on the selection of a mode. Specifically, this study attempts to identify the impact that shipper perceptions of intermodal and over-the-road truck service, as well as other characteristics of the shipper, have on intermodal usage. The research findings support the notion that shipper perceptions affect modal usage and indicate areas in which intermodal providers should focus their attention to improve intermodal usage.
Terrorism and the global supply chain: where are your weak links?
Authors: Dobie Kathryn , Glisson L Milton , Grant James
Published: October 2020

For many years, managers have chosen to ignore the risks associated with acts of terrorism that can potentially and catastrophically affect the global supply chain. As producers and suppliers become more tightly tied through long term relationships, common communications and information technology, events affecting one member of the supply chain can have a profound impact on the ability of the rest of the network to operate. The purpose of this discourse is to highlight the linkages which leave a supply chain vulnerable in the case of direct or indirect disruption caused by unexpected terrorist activity.
¿Cultura para consumir? Los yagua y el turismo cultural en el Trapecio Amazónico
Authors: Gallego Acevedo Lina Marcela
Published: October 2020

El turismo en el Amazonas promueve encuentros entre nativos amazónicos y turistas occidentales en los que escenifican su diferencia cultural en términos de polaridades yuxtapuestas, mediadas por transacciones económicas. A partir del recuento de la inserción de la comunidad yagua de La Libertad en los circuitos del turismo, y de la descripción de la escena típica que se repite en estos encuentros, el artículo se aproxima a las interacciones entre turistas e indígenas, en un escenario en el que el turista se comporta como un consumidor de la autenticidad de la vida indígena asociada con la preservación de la selva amazónica, que el indígena le vende para conseguir productos y objetos asociados con la cultura y la sociedad del turista de los cuales depende. Su relación esta mediada por discursos sobre el desarrollo regional, los operadores turísticos de diferente envergadura y una marginal, pero creciente, dependencia de los indígenas del acceso a recursos monetarios.
Etnización y multiculturalismo en el bajo Atrato
Authors: Restrepo Eduardo
Published: October 2020

En este artículo busco examinar, para un lugar específico (el bajo Atrato, en el departamento del Chocó), algunos efectos del multiculturalismo. Para ello me enfoco en los alcances y límites del proceso de etnización de las “comunidades negras”, resaltando los efectos performativos de la legislación inspirada en el giro al multiculturalismo que constituye, en la imaginación jurídica y política, a estas comunidades como un “grupo étnico”. Me interesa más el examen de la emergencia del proceso de etnización que presentar un diagnóstico de la situación organizativa actual del bajo Atrato y de las intervenciones que entidades no gubernamentales (colombianas y extranjeras) o el Estado realizan hoy de acuerdo con el derecho internacional humanitario.
To the 20 anniversary of ICA Commission on Map Projections of the International Cartographic Association (2003–2023)
Authors: Lapaine М. , Usery E.L. , Nyrtsov M.V.
Published: October 2020

The Commission on Map Projections (CoMP) of the International Cartographic Association (ICA) was chartered and began aсting in 2003. The Commission has been active in promoting and distributing map projections research, education, and knowledge through its individual members, conferences and workshops of the ICA. Among the developments of the CoMP there are published papers of the workshops, conference sessions at the International Cartographic Conferences, and other international conferences in cartography and geoinformation. The CoMP has developed and maintained a public website with tutorial information on map projections, published research, decision systems to help in projection selection, news and announcements of the events, and an archive of the Commission’s activities. Among the publications of the CoMP there are research papers, conference proceedings, book chapters, and a book on Choosing a Map Projection. The CoMP are going to continue research and education activities, workshops, conferences, and publications to advance map projections with the 2019 to 2023 term.
AS RELAÇÕES BRASIL-ÁFRICA: DO NEXO ESCRAVISTA À CONSTRUÇÃO DE PARCERIAS ESTRATÉGICAS
Authors: Pereira Analúcia Danilevicz
Published: October 2020

As relações do Brasil com o continente africano, após um longo período de afastamento, ganharam um novo impulso a partir dos anos 2000.  Os laços históricos, a consolidação de uma política africana brasileira e as importantes mudanças no continente africano estão presentes na visão brasileira sobre a necessidade de aproximação e cooperação. O discurso e a prática diplomática brasileira convergem para a construção de alianças preferenciais com parceiros no âmbito das relações Sul-Sul. Nessa perspectiva, o continente africano representa uma das áreas de maior investimento em termos diplomáticos dos últimos governos. E ainda, a construção de um espaço estratégico que ligue o Brasil à costa africana, transforma o Oceano Atlântico em uma área a ser preservada para a cooperação por ambos os lados. Nesse sentido, este estudo busca avaliar a interação entre o Brasil e o continente africano, especialmente com África lusófona, e analisar as relações Brasil-África nos marcos da Cooperação Sul-Sul.
UNIÃO AFRICANA: A POLÍTICA DA ÁFRICA DO SUL DE MBEKI PARA A ÁFRICA
Authors: Affonso Luiza Bizzo , Lengruber Vitor Ferreira
Published: October 2020

Marcada por calamidades que enfatizam visões estereotipadas sobre si, a África se apresenta ao século XXI com uma crescente expectativa pessimista em relação a seu futuro e potencial no campo internacional. Como resposta a este desafio, dentre outros, Thabo Mbeki, presidente da África do Sul no período, populariza o conceito de Renascença Africana, cuja proposta oferece soluções, na esfera política e econômica, para enfrentar as adversidades. Para além da orientação política e econômica, a Renascença Africana, entendida como parte da estratégia de Pretória para a África, também possui notável atuação na estruturação da União Africana, criada em 2002 como aprofundamento da Organização da Unidade Africana. Dessa forma, o presente trabalho busca analisar o papel sul-africano na alteração da dinâmica política e econômica observada na África no início do século XXI.
CONFIANÇA NO PODER POLÍTICO E NAS INSTITUIÇÕES GOVERNATIVAS EM MOÇAMBIQUE: 2014-2018
Authors: Xavier Zeca Kátia Sara Henriques
Published: October 2020

Tendo sido realizadas seis eleições gerais (1994, 1999, 2004, 2009, 2014 e 2019), desafios são enfrentados no processo democrático moçambicano, entre eles entender a confiança do eleitorado nas instituições governativas. O objetivo deste artigo é compreender a confiança por parte dos eleitores nas instituições do poder político em Moçambique. Recorrendo a uma revisão documental, mediante uma abordagem teórica que permitirá entender as questões da democratização num sentido mais amplo, com enfoque para Moçambique no período de 2014 a 2018, pretende-se utilizar os dados do Afrobarometer, da ronda 6 (R6) 2014-2015 para analisar a confiança do eleitorado em relação às instituições do poder político, bem como dos seus líderes, o entendimento sobre a democracia e o grau de satisfação em relação à mesma. Destaca-se que mais de 50% dos inquiridos concordam que existem alguns problemas em relação à democracia em Moçambique e que existe uma necessidade de melhorar os processos em torno de alguns órgãos de gestão eleitoral.
EVA-based financial performance measurement: An evidential study of selected emerging country companies
Authors: Goel Kushagra , Oswal Sunny
Published: October 2020

This paper aims at examining the claims that economic value added (EVA) is a superior performance indicator than the traditional performance indicators like ROCE, NOPAT, EPS, OCF, and RONW. This study investigates the relative explanatory power of EVA measure of non-financial Indian companies with respect to two measures, market value added and stock returns used as a proxy for shareholder value. The analysis is performed for a sample of 46 Indian companies for the period of 2009-2019. The panel data regression models are employed to test the relative and incremental information content of EVA and other audited accounting-based measures. Relative information content tests reveal that NOPAT and OCF appear to be more value-relevant than EVA in explaining the market value of Indian companies. It was also found that ROA is more closely associated with stock market returns than EVA. Additionally, incremental information content tests suggest that EVA underperforms in comparison with NOPAT and OCF in analysing market value added. It was also found that EVA does not add any incremental information content to that provided by ROA and ROE accounting measures in explaining stock returns. Overall, the findings do not support the purported superiority of EVA to established accounting variables in association with market value or stock market returns of the firm. It is concluded that non-financial variables such as research and development, customer satisfaction, internal business process efficiency, innovation, employee satisfaction, CSR, product quality apart from financial variables drive market value and should be considered by investors in developing their investment strategies
“Muzarah” Share-Cropping and “Musagah” Irrigation as Methods of Partnership for Financing Agricultural Sector and Micro Finance Projects Practiced by Islamic Banks.
Authors:   Faculty of Shariah and Islamic Sciences  University of Alwasl Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Omar Ahmed El-Murdi Saeed
Published: October 2020

In this paper, the researcher expected to explain provisions of Islamic financial jurisprudence in respect to the related and selected commercial contracts and to relate their implantation to Islamic Banking system. The objectives are to tell the reader: (1) how the pioneer Muslim scholars compiled and documented the provisions of Muzarah and Musagah as essential methods for partnership recently in Islamic Banking systems. The researcher adopts the APA style that is well known method for referencing to evaluate literature. Findings from the research showed that (1) Sharing corps is a contract allowed within Hanbali School of thought and in the view of Abu Yousuf and Mohammed bn Al-Hassan Alshybaini. (2) for the validity of share cropping conditions of: The land that should be cultivated, the seeds, the employees, the profit and the duration of the contract should be well stated. (3) Share cropping could be valid or vitiated. (4) The contract of Musagat or irrigation will be formed by offer and acceptance. (5) Contract of irrigation is handling tree to workers for purpose or irrigation or harvesting. (6) Contract of Musagah and Muzarah sharing the same conditions. (7) Both of the contracts bearing the same reasons of void or invalidity. The researcher recommends that relevant academic area of knowledge in particular Department sof: economics, banking and finance, law, Islamic Sciences, Business and Management to include the Islamic methods of investment in business, in their curriculums and syllabus at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Keywords: “Muzarah”, Share-Cropping, “Musagah”, Irrigation, Partnership, Financing, Agricultural Sector, Micro Finance, Projects, Islamic Banks.
Posisjonering i kunnskapsrelasjoner: En kasusstudie om FoU-veiledning i grunnskolelærerutdanningen
Authors: Olsen Rigmor
Published: October 2020

Formålet med studien er å analysere FoU-veiledning for å få innsikt i samhandlingen som skjer når flere lærerutdannere veileder de samme studentene. FoU-veiledning er en veiledningssituasjon i grunnskolelærerutdanningen som er lite forsket på. Studiens primærdatamateriale er lydopptak av veiledningssamtaler hvor en gruppe lærerstudenter får FoU-veiledning fra tre lærerutdannere fra skolen og universitetet i adskilte dyader. Materialet analyseres ved hjelp av posisjoneringsteori kombinert med teori om kunnskapsrelasjoner. Analysen viser lærerutdannere som dominerer både kvantitativt og semantisk, og som posisjoneres i ulike kunnskapsrelasjoner med studentene. På tvers av dyadene posisjoneres lærerutdannerne med avstand til hverandres kunnskap. Studien gir innsikt i hvordan lærerutdanneres kunnskapsbidrag spiller inn i studentenes praksisrettede FoU-arbeid.
English abstract
English title: Positioning in knowledge relations: A case study on R&D mentoring within Initial Teacher Education in Norway
The purpose of this research is to analyze R&D mentoring to gain an insight into interaction when several teacher educators are mentoring the same students. R&D mentoring is a littleresearched mentoring situation within Initial Teacher Education in Norway. The primary data is comprised of audio dialogues recorded over the course of one year, where a group of student teachers receive mentoring from one school-based mentor and two university lecturers in three separate dyads. The material is analyzed using positioning theory combined with theory of relations of knowledge. The analysis shows that teacher educators dominate both quantitatively and semantically, and that they are positioned in different relations of knowledge with students. Across the dyads, the teacher educators are positioned at a distance from each other’s knowledge. The study provides an insight into how different teacher educators’ contributions of knowledge influence students’ practice-oriented R&D work.
Venous resections and reconstructions in surgery of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Kit Oleg I. , Katelnitskaya Oksana V. , Maslov Andrey A. , Gevorkyan Yuriy A. , Kolesnikov Evgeniy N.
Published: October 2020

Aim. To evaluate results of venous resections in tumor infiltration of venous wall in pancreatic cancer (PC).
Materials and Methods. The study included 74 patients with PC and tumor invasion of the wall of the mesenteric-portal system (T3 N0-1 M0). The control group included patients (n=53), receiving palliative chemotherapy. The average age of patients in the group of surgical treatment was 61.89.8 years, in the control group 63.210.1 years (р0.05), the average diameter of the tumor was 39 mm and 43 mm, respectively (р0.05). In 62 cases of the group of surgical treatment the tumor was located in the head of pancreas (P), the patients were conducted pancreaticoduodenal resection with venous resection. In the rest of cases (n=12) the tumor was located in the body of P, corporocaudal resection of P was conducted with venous resection.
Results. In the early postoperative period 2.7% of patients developed thrombosis of the reconstruction zone, 1.4% developed bleeding. 30-Day postoperative lethality was 4.1%. Median survival in surgical treatment of PC with venous resection was higher in comparison with palliative chemotherapy: 19 months vs 13 months, р0.05. In the group of venous resection the lowest annual survival (46.2%) was noted in patients with marginal resection of the vein. No significant differences were found in the parameters of survival with use of direct venous anastomose and venous prosthetics (66.7% vs 63.2%, p0.05).
Conclusions. Angioplastic interventions permitting to achieve microscopically complete resection of the tumor in PC with tumor infiltration of mesenteric-portal system, permit to improve survival of patients in comparison with palliative chemotherapy.
Participation of ABCA1 transporter in development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Kotlyarov Stanislav N. , Kotlyarova Anna A.
Published: October 2020

Despite all achievements of the modern medicine, the problem of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) does not lose its relevance. The current paradigm suggests a key role of macrophages in inflammation in COPD. Macrophages are known to be heterogeneous in their functions. This heterogeneity is determined by their immunometabolic profile and also by peculiarities of lipid homeostasis of cells.
Aim. To analyze the role of the ABCA1 transporter, a member of the ABC A subfamily, in the pathogenesis of COPD. The expression of ABCA1 in lung tissues is on the second place after the liver, which shows the important role of the carrier and of lipid homeostasis in the function of lungs. Analysis of the literature shows that participation of the transporter in inflammation consists in regulation of the content of cholesterol in the lipid rafts of the membranes, in phagocytosis and apoptosis.
Conclusion. Through regulation of the process of reverse transport of cholesterol in macrophages of lungs, ABCA1 can change their inflammatory response, which makes a significant contribution to the pathogenesis of COPD.
Non-invasive diagnostics of endometriosis: review of modern biomarkers of peripheral blood and endometrium
Authors: Kiselev Mikhail A. , Repina Natalya. B.
Published: October 2020

Endometriosis is a chronic progressing estrogen-dependent disease with a high incidence among females characterized by pelvic pain (40-80%) and infertility (25-80%).
Aim. To analyze and estimate the modern literature data on the possibility of using potential biomarkers of endometriosis in its non-invasive diagnostics.
In recent years, researchers have made significant advances in understanding the disease-specific molecular pathways that regulate the development of ectopic foci of endometriosis, by examining the blood, peritoneal fluid, and eutopic endometrium in women with the disease. Along with understanding the pathophysiology of endometriosis, the question of finding an adequate biomarker that will provide an effective early non-invasive diagnosis of endometriosis and, accordingly, preserve the reproductive health of millions of women, remains relevant.
Conclusion. Most reasonable in diagnostics of endometriosis is a combination of different biomarkers that also minimizes false positive and negative results in differential diagnosis.