bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilização de um modelo de programação inteira no dimensionamento de frota de um operador logístico: um estudo de caso
Authors: Longaray André Andrade , Guerreiro Rafael Rolim , Chaves Ticiani Gonçalves , Munhoz Paulo Roberto , Tondolo Vilmar Gonçalves
Published: July 2021

O presente artigo relata o estudo sobre o dimensionamento e planejamento da logística envolvendo decisões em níveis estratégicos e táticos de uma frota heterogênea de caminhões de carga, pertencentes a um operador logístico, que tem sua unidade localizada na Bahia e atende a região nordeste do Brasil. O trabalho tem por objetivo apresentar a utilização de um modelo de programação inteira, que dimensiona o tamanho ideal da frota e define em quais rotas esses veículos devem ser utilizadas, assim como a viabilidade econômica da posse de uma frota própria. Quanto ao delineamento da pesquisa, a mesma se enquadra como um estudo de caso, sendo esse método uma estratégia de pesquisa que busca examinar um fenômeno contemporâneo dentro de seu contexto, sendo utilizada de maneira descritiva. Para chegar à solução do problema, encontrando o dimensionamento ideal da frota, usou-se um modelo algoritmo de programação inteira com o propósito de identificar as características e particularidades da empresa, a fim de minimizar os custos totais de transporte e indicando quais clientes cada caminhão deve atender. O modelo foi testado no espaço de doze meses e os resultados obtidos indicam uma redução média de 59% nos custos totais de transporte quando comparados com os dados reais da empresa estudada
In the shadow of plagues:2020 presidential elections in Poland
Authors: Sula Piotr , Madej Małgorzata , Błaszczyński Kamil
Published: July 2021

Presidential elections in Poland have always drawn more voters to the ballot box than parliamentary ones. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the turnout in the 2020 presidential elections was the second-highest since 1989. The glib answer might be that voters were simply availing themselves of the opportunity to leave the house, however briefly, since COVID-19 measures had largely confined people to their homes for most of the year. More likely, albeit paradoxically, heightened voter interest was triggered by political autocratisation, the other plague that Poles have been struggling with, in this case since 2015. The election was won by the incumbent, Andrzej Duda, whose advantage was credited to his appeal among less-educated and older people living in rural areas. In the end, the governing Law and Justice (PiS) party, which had backed Duda’s campaign, managed to avoid cohabitation-related inconvenience for the second time.
„Bezbożny sojusz”? populizm i wiodące religie monoteistyczne
Authors: Chrostowski Mariusz
Published: July 2021

Populizm to jedno z największych wyzwań współczesności nie tylko w rozumieniu kulturowym, społecznym i politycznym, ale także religijnym. Niezależnie od tego, czy to judaizm, chrześcijaństwo lub islam, każda z tych religii wraz z jej symbolami, obrazami, metaforami i przypowieściami, jest narażana na mimowolny i „bezbożny sojusz” z populizmem, który wykorzystuje religię do osiągnięcia własnych celów na drodze politycznej manipulacji, potęgowania postaw antyimigranckich, dewaluacji innych grup społecznych, a także antyestablishmentu i antypluralizmu. Celem niniejszego artykułu jest zatem ukazanie relacji, jakie zachodzą pomiędzy populistyczną „ideologią o cienkim rdzeniu”, a głównymi religiami monoteistycznymi w ramach ideologicznego zawłaszczania religii przez populistów, które posiada każdorazowo jednakowy „punkt styczny”, tj. upolitycznienie religii i sakralizację polityki.
Gastroprotective effects of diosgenin against HCl/ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury through suppression of NF-κβ and myeloperoxidase activities
Authors: Zhao Hengfang , Zhang Xiaoyan , Zhang Bojing , Qu Xiaoyuan
Published: July 2021

Gastric mucosal injury is caused by an imbalance between the mucosal defense and gastro-irritants, leading to gastroenteritis. Diosgenin is a steroidal sapogenin found in the wild Yam plant that has been reported with several pharmacological properties. The aim of this study is to explore the gastroprotective role of diosgenin on gastric mucosal damage caused by HCl/ethanol in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were intragastrically administered with diosgenin (20 mg/kg) before HCl/ethanol (0.15 M HCl in 98 % ethanol) administration. Omeprazole was used as a positive control. Diosgenin-attenuated oxidative stress by enhancing (p < 0.05) antioxidant enzymes, reducing lipid peroxidation (MDA), and modulating nitric oxide (NO) levels. Anti-inflammatory effects of diosgenin were observed by a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines (p < 0.05), decreased myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities (p < 0.05), and histopathological observation of gastric mucosal damage. Western blot analysis provided evidence on the downregulation of NF-κβ by diosgenin. The findings showed that diosgenin has a significant protective role on gastric injury caused by HCl/ethanol, through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory role, and suppression of NF-κβ and MPO activities.
World Literature, Globalization, and The Loss Of Stories: On the Political Economy of Narrative Today
Authors: Hogan Patrick Colm
Published: July 2021

‘World literature’ has several distinct meanings. Most important for the present study, it may refer to the products of increased interaction across literary traditions in a globalized political economy. The resulting ‘global literature’ involves extensive convergence in narrative practices. The result is a diminishing of cultural diversity in storytelling. Globalization may also lead to certain sorts of divergence. This may seem to partially counterbalance the convergence. However, in an unequal, global economy, divergence is most often guided by hegemonic cultural practices, even if this occurs negatively. Specifically, such divergence commonly operates through identity-based repudiation of global standardization with a consequent simplification and distortion of putatively indigenous traditions. Thus, in unequal global conditions, both convergence and divergence have the effect of reducing the diversity of narrative cultures. In consequence, the globalization of literature may have deleterious effects on the aesthetics - and indeed the ethics and politics - of narrative. The essay ends with some possibilities for reversing this trend.
CO2 utilization by dry reforming of CH4 over mesoporous Ni/KIT-6 catalyst
Authors: Tang Congming , Huang Juan , Zhang Dong , Jiang Qingqing , Zhou Guilin
Published: July 2021

The mesoporous Ni/KIT-6 catalysts with different composition were prepared by altering reduction temperatures. In addition, their physicochemical properties were characterized by X-ray diffraction, in-situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller techniques. The results shown that the specific surface area, composition and metallic Ni crystallinity of the Ni/KIT-6 catalyst were significantly affected by reduction temperatures. The catalytic performances of the prepared Ni/KIT-6 catalysts were evaluated via the CO2 reforming of CH4 into syngas and followed the order: RT0 < RT250 < RT300 < RT350 < RT400 < RT450 ≈ RT500. The specific surface area, pore volume, pore diameter, and Ni0 content of the most representative RT450 catalyst among of them were 646.7 m2 g−1, 0.92 cm3 g−1, 6.5 nm, and 30.9%, respectively. The CH4 and CO2 conversions of RT450 catalyst reached to 69.0 and 39.4% under a reaction temperature of 600 °C, respectively. The CO selectivity was greater than 49% and the RT450 catalyst had good stability.
Optimal siting of solar based distributed generation (DG) in distribution system for constant power load model
Authors: Prakash Prem , Meena Duli Chand
Published: July 2021

In this paper optimal location and sizing of Non-dispatchable Distributed Generation (NDG) based distributed generation (DG) is investigated by considering uncertainty of NDG. In present study a solar photovoltaic (SPV) is considered as NDG because SPV based DG has uncertain nature of generated power because it is powered by solar irradiance which has uncertain characteristics. To investigate the uncertainty of intermittent nature of solar irradiance Beta Probability Density Function (BPDF) based PDF is considered for addressing the uncertainty of solar insolation. For determining the optimal size of DG unit an analytical based methodology is developed. In this study optimal capacity of NDG is estimated by deriving the expressions of DG unit at each bus. Further, a multi-objective index factor (MIF) is designed in order to find out the candidate bus for DG placement. The proposed technique is applied on IEEE 33-bus distribution network. The obtained results reveal that proposed technique provide almost similar result to that of other method which is available in literature.
A rare and preventable aetiology of neurodevelopmental delay and epilepsy: familial glucocorticoid deficiency
Authors: Özbek Mehmet Nuri , Demiral Meliha , Unal Edip , Karaşin Nezahat Doğan , Baran Rıza Taner , Demirbilek Huseyin
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Familial glucocorticoid deficiency (FGD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterised by isolated glucocorticoid deficiency. Melanocortin receptor 2 (MC2R) mediates the functions of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the adrenal cortex. MC2R accessory protein (MRAP) is a transmembrane protein involved in the trafficking of MC2R to the cell surface. Mutations in MC2R and MRAP genes cause FGD type 1 and 2. In the present case series, we evaluate the clinical characteristics and long-term follow-up of six cases with FGD due to mutations in MC2R and MRAP.

Case presentation

Data of six cases with FGD (five with mutations in MC2R and one with a mutation in MRAP) who were being followed at our paediatric endocrine centre was evaluated. Diagnosis of FGD was considered in case of elevated ACTH and inappropriately low cortisol level, and exclusion of other aetiologies. The main presenting complaints were hyperpigmentation and hypoglycaemic convulsion in all cases. During a follow-up period of 26–115 months, one patient with homozygous 560delT mutation in MC2R, one female with G226R mutation in MC2R and one female with IVS3ds+1delG mutation in MRAP had a neurodevelopmental delay (NDD), while the other three patients had normal neurodevelopment.

Conclusions

FGD patients due to MC2R and MRAP mutations with early diagnosis and compliance to the hydrocortisone therapy had normal neurodevelopment, while delay in diagnosis and poor compliance was associated with severe hypoglycaemic convulsions and subsequent complications NDD.
The effect of sickle cell anemia on the linear growth of Nigerian children
Authors: Chikani Ugo Nnenna , Bisi-Onyemaechi Adaobi , Ohuche Ijeoma , Onu Justus , Ugege Shalewa , Ogugua Chinwe , Mbanefo Ngozi , Chime Paschal , Emodi Ifeoma
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Despite the high prevalence of children with sickle cell anaemia (SCA) in West Africa, there is paucity of data on the height velocity and prevalence of growth failure in SCA patients. With advances in clinical care of SCA patients, could there be a spatial and secular trend in the growth pattern of these children? Hence, the compelling needs to embark on this study. The objectives of the study were to determine the prevalence of growth failure among patients with SCA and its correlation with age, gender and age at diagnosis.

Methods

A Prospective longitudinal study of a cohort of sickle cell anaemic paediatric patients from Pediatrics SCA Clinic, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku Ozalla. Patients were enrolled over a period of two years using a non-parametric convenient sampling method. Their heights were measured at baseline, three months, six months and at 12 months intervals and subsequently plotted on a standard WHO growth chart. The height velocities at different monthly intervals were calculated and compared with the WHO standard normal linear growth rates) for children (used as control) to identify those with GF. (i.e. <10th percentile). The main outcome measures were the mean height velocities at different months' intervals calculated and compared using the repeated measurement analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Wilcoxon signed test.

Results

A cohort of 316 children aged 1–18 years with SCA was evaluated with a male preponderance of 161 (57.4%). The mean age and age at diagnosis were 11.04 ± 5.56 and 4.2 ± 1.7 years, respectively. The prevalence of growth failure and short stature was 84.7%. The burden of GF was highest among post-pubertal participants (94.1%). The most important predictor of growth velocity deficit was age (R2=0.045, standard β coefficient = −0.22, t=−03.51, p=0.001).

Conclusions

The study demonstrated high prevalence of growth failure in children and adolescents with SCA which intensified with advancement in age and older age at diagnosis.
The use of PAMG-1 testing in patients with preterm labor, intact membranes and a short sonographic cervix reduces the rate of unnecessary antenatal glucocorticoid administration
Authors: Kehl Sven , Weiss Christel , Pretscher Jutta , Baier Friederike , Faschingbauer Florian , Beckmann Matthias W. , Stumpfe Florian M.
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To assess the frequency of antenatal corticosteroid (ACS) administration in cases with shortened cervical length by addition of placental alpha-microglobulin-1 (PAMG-1) testing to sonographic examination.

Methods

Single centre retrospective cohort study. Rate of ACS administration was compared between cases with cervical length between 15 and 25 mm and cases with positive PAMG-1 testing and cervical length between 15 and 25 mm. We evaluated the following outcome parameters: Rate of ACS administration, gestational age at delivery, time to delivery, delivery within seven days, delivery <34 and <37 weeks’ gestation, rate of admission to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Results

In total, 130 cases were included. “PAMG-1 group” consisted of 68 women, 62 cases built the “historical control group”. ACS administration was performed less frequently in the “PAMG-1 cohort” (18 (26%) vs. 46 (74%); p<0.001). The rate of delivery within seven days did not differ (2 (3%) vs. 4 (6.5%); p=0.4239). The rates of delivery <34 weeks’ gestation (7 (10%) vs. 9 (15%); p=0.4643) and <37 weeks’ gestation (19 (28%) vs. 26 (42%); p=0.0939) did not differ. Time to delivery interval was longer in the PAMG-1 group (61.5 vs. 43 days, p=0.0117). NICU admission occurred more often in the “historical control group” (22 (38%) vs. 28 (60%); p=0.0272).

Conclusions

Addition of biomarker testing can help to avoid unnecessary ACS administrations in women with shortened cervical length.
Development and characterization of healthy gummy jellies containing natural fruits
Authors: Teixeira-Lemos Edite , Almeida Ana Rita , Vouga Beatriz , Morais Cátia , Correia Inês , Pereira Pedro , Guiné Raquel P. F.
Published: July 2021

The reduction of sugar and the addition of healthier ingredients in gummy jellies brings some improved health characteristics to a product that usually is devoid of nutrition. Therefore, the aim of this study is to develop gummy jellies using natural ingredients, without added sugars or additives, in two varieties: one including orange juice and slightly sweetened with honey (ORH) and the other including puree made from a mixture of berries (BEM). These were submitted to physicochemical, microbiological, and sensorial analyses. Results of microbiological analyses showed that both gummies were suitable for consumption accordingly to EU legislation. The physicochemical analyses allowed making a nutritional evaluation, so that ORH and BEM presented 73.8 kcal/100 g and 39.8 kcal/100 g, respectively, five and nine times lower than similar commercial products. The contribution of macronutrients of ORH and BEM was as follows: 78.0 and 67% from carbohydrates, 21.7 and 33% from proteins, respectively. Regarding the potential functional properties, the antioxidant capacity was 50.4  ±  4.5 mg/L TE for ORH and 83.7  ±  7.6 mg/L for BEM. Sensorial evaluation showed that although the developed gummy jellies were slightly less appreciated than a commercial counterpart, still they were appreciated by members of a panel and particularly the ORH, which was rated with scores almost equal to those of the commercial sample. In addition, the developed gummies showed lower caloric values and higher antioxidant capacity than similar commercial candies. Overall, ORH and BEM gummy jellies could represent an opportunity to provide consumers with a healthier alternative to the common jelly candies available in the market.
Die Grenzen des Fortschritts
Authors: Zirfas Jörg
Published: July 2021

Die Geschichte Europas wird spätestens seit der Aufklärung dominiert vom „Mythos des Fortschreitens“ (Sting). Fortschreiten bedeutet zunächst in einem formalen Sinne, die Dinge in einer spezifischen Weise wahrzunehmen, d.h. eine bestimmte Interpretation von Veränderungen vorzunehmen, dabei eine spezifische Richtung einzuschlagen, eine spezifische Betonung der Zukunft herauszustellen und letztlich ein spezifisches Ziel in der Zukunft zu realisieren zu suchen, wobei der Fortschritt nicht identisch mit der Erreichung des Ziels ist (Spaemann). Mit der Idee des Fortschritts gelingt eine Sicherung der Unvergeblichkeit jedes Schrittes, wobei er jede seiner Phasen zur bloßen Vorstufe der ihr folgenden herunterstuft (Blumenberg). Mit ihm lässt sich die beste aller Welten noch vervollkommnen, weil das Ziel der Vollendung in die Optimierung integriert wird: Der Fortschritt kennt nur eigene Grenzen bzw. kennt er keine mehr, weil er die Bewegung der Grenzverschiebung ist. Daher kommt er auch nie ans Ziel. Und das gilt nicht nur für Wissenschaft und Technik, sondern auch für die Bildung und den Menschen: Dieser wird zu einem sich stetig selbst überbietenden und optimierbaren Wesen ernannt. Erst die Selbstermächtigung des Menschen als homo faber, eine nicht auf Transzendenz teleologisierte Geschichte und die Depotenzierung Gottes durch den Deismus machen den modernen Fortschritt möglich. Doch mittlerweile droht der Fortschritt „das Ziel zunichte zu machen, das er verwirklichen soll – die Idee des Menschen“ (Horkheimer).
Religion als Perfektion?
Authors: Benner Dietrich
Published: July 2021

Der Beitrag erkennt dem Religiösen eine bleibende Bedeutung auch in modernen Gesellschaften zu und legt diese auf die Dimensionierung religiöser Bildung und Kompetenz nach religiösen Grundkenntnissen sowie religiös-theologischer Deutungs- und Partizipationskompetenz aus. Untersucht werden Entwicklungsaufgaben und -probleme, vor denen die drei monotheistischen Weltreligionen in ihrer eigenen Konfession, in ihrem Verhältnis zu anderen Religionen und mit Blick auf die Kultivierung öffentlicher Religiosität stehen. Die Ausführungen plädieren dafür, die Möglichkeiten und Erschwernisse einer Perfektionierung der genannten Religionen in intra-, inter- und öffentlichen Religionsdiskursen zu thematisieren und zum Gegenstand des öffentlichen Religionsunterrichts an Schulen zu machen.
Das Lob des Imperfekten oder zur angemessenen Rede von Gott und Mensch
Authors: Oorschot Jürgen van
Published: July 2021

Die alttestamentliche Gottesrede kennt in ihren unterschiedlichen Spielarten ein wechselseitiges Verweisverhältnis zwischen Gott und Mensch. Darin begegnet die Perfektion Gottes als Grenzbestimmung und das Imperfekte als Modus der Darstellung Gottes. In der Konsequenz lassen sich weder der Mensch noch Gott in den Vorstellungen des Perfekten oder des Imperfekten allein angemessen erfassen.
Die Unfähigkeit des Menschen zur Vervollkommnung als anthropologische Grundkategorie von Nicht-P in Gen 6-8
Authors: Wagner Andreas
Published: July 2021

Es scheint mir fruchtbar, bestimmte theologisch-anthropologische Grundkonzeption des Alten Testaments im Rahmen des Imperfektibilitäts-Diskurses zu beschreiben. Ausgangspunkt für die besonders an Gen 6,5 (im Kontext von Gen 6-8) anknüpfende Position der „Unfähigkeit des Menschen zur Vervollkommnung“: Alle Reflexionen geschehen in Gen 6,5ff. nur von Gott her und auf das Verhältnis Mensch-Gott hin; es gibt keine individuell/kollektive Unterscheidung bei dieser Problematik, sowohl der einzelne Mensch wie auch die Menschheit sind imperfektibel. Das Konzept ist offen für einen Inklusionsansatz, der vom Differenzprinzip her denkt, verfolgt selbst aber eine andere, theologische, Zielrichtung und führt den Lesenden die Angewiesenheit des Menschen auf Gottes Gnade sowie ihre Zusage vor Augen.
„Und siehe – es ist sehr gut“ (Genesis 1,31)
Authors: Erbele-Küster Dorothea
Published: July 2021

Die Idee der Vervollkommnung des Menschen und der Welt knüpft in der europäischen Geistesgeschichte immer wieder implizit oder explizit an den biblischen Schöpfungsbericht in Genesis 1 an. Wie tragfähig ist diese Vision angesichts der Erfahrung des Imperfekten, der Fragmentarität und des Zusammenbruchs? Der Beitrag untersucht wie es dem literarischen Masternarrativ, das die Alttestamentliche Wissenschaft als Priesterschrift bezeichnet, gelingt, an der Perfektibilität des Menschen und des Kosmos festzuhalten. Die ästhetisch reflexive Haltung Gottes gegenüber der Welt „siehe – es ist sehr gut“, zu der die Rezipierenden in der Mimesis eingeladen sind, impliziert eine ethische Haltung der Anerkennung. Die Utopie der Vollkommenheit ist damit bereits am Anfang gleichsam jenseits der Menschheitsgeschichte verankert
Anleitungen zur Selbstperfektionierung
Authors: Wiedemann Inga
Published: July 2021

Anleitungen zur Selbstperfektionierung wurden geschrieben, um für eine radikale Lebensreform zu werben. Die Kommunikation unter den Reformbefürwortern erfolgte über Schreiben, Lesen und Diskutieren, um Praktiken, Kenntnisse und den Zusammenhalt zu fördern. Da es nur wenigen gelang, sich zeitlebens einem entsagungsvollen Lebensstil zu unterziehen, erwachten immer wieder Bewegungen, die aufs Neue Ängste und Hoffnungen der Menschen artikulierten und zeitgemäße Rezepte für ein glücklicheres Leben lieferten. Ältere Schriften wurden von späteren Generationen verarbeitet und neu interpretiert. Waren die Anleitungen überzeugend, förderten sie über längere Zeit soziokulturelle Prozesse innerhalb der Gesellschaft. Zunächst radikal scheinende Forderungen wurden schließlich allgemein anerkannt.
The stannides Ca1.692Pt2Sn3.308, SrPtSn2 and EuAuSn2
Authors: Klenner Steffen , Reimann Maximilian Kai , Seidel Stefan , Pöttgen Rainer
Published: July 2021

Polycrystalline samples of the stannides Ca1.692Pt2Sn3.308, SrPtSn2 and EuAuSn2 were synthesized directly from the elements, using sealed tantalum ampoules as crucible material. The reactions were performed in muffle or induction furnaces. The phase purity of the samples was studied by X-ray powder diffraction (Guinier technique). The structures of Ca1.692Pt2Sn3.308 and SrPtSn2 were refined from single-crystal X-ray diffractometer data: NdRh2Sn4 type, Pnma, a = 1887.22(13), b = 441.22(3), c = 742.89(4) pm, wR = 0.0626, 1325 F
2 values, 45 variables for Ca1.692(8) Pt2Sn3.308(8) and CeNiSi2 type, Cmcm, a = 462.59(5), b = 1932.8(2), c = 458.00(5) pm, wR = 0.0549, 481 F
2 values, 18 variables for SrPtSn2. The calcium compound shows a homogeneity range Ca1+x
Pt2Sn4−x
with substantial Sn4/Ca2 mixing on one of the 4c Wyckoff positions. The [PtSn2] network is characterized by Pt–Sn (269–281 pm) and Sn–Sn (306–336 pm) bonding interactions. SrPtSn2 contains two different tin substructures: (i) Sn1–Sn1 zig-zag chains (282 pm) and (ii) orthorhombically distorted Sn2 squares (326 pm) with stronger and weaker Sn–Sn bonding. Together, the platinum and tin atoms build up a three-dimensional [PtSn2] network in which the platinum atoms have a distorted square-pyramidal tin coordination with Pt–Sn distances ranging from 261–270 pm. EuAuSn2 also crystallizes with the CeNiSi2-type structure with the lattice parameters a = 453.9(1), b = 2018.9(5) and c = 456.8(1) pm. Temperature dependent magnetic susceptibility studies indicate europium(II) with an experimental magnetic moment of 8.28(2) µB per Eu atom. EuAuSn2 is ordered antiferromagnetically at T

N
 = 14.8(2) K. 151Eu Mössbauer spectra confirm the oxidation state +2 for europium (isomer shift δ = −11.17(2) mm s−1) and the magnetic ordering at low temperature (21.8 T magnetic hyperfine field at 6 K).
The earliest Chinese ceramics in Europe?
Authors: Gutiérrez Alejandra , Gerrard Christopher , Zhang Ran , Guangyao Wang
Published: July 2021

The importation of Chinese porcelain and celadon into Europe has long been thought to have first begun around the thirteenth century AD. A unique group of Chinese ceramic sherds from archaeological contexts in Spain dated to between the ninth and eleventh centuries, however, now represents the earliest Chinese wares identified in Europe. Such an unexpectedly early presence on high-status sites in Western Europe probably reflects changing patterns of commerce in the Indian Ocean and the giving of prestigious gifts at the very highest levels of social and political power across the Islamic Mediterranean world.
Localizing Microemboli within the Rodent Brain through Block-Face Imaging and Atlas Registration
Authors: McDonald Matthew W. , Jeffers Matthew S. , Filadelfi Melissa , Vicencio Andrea , Heidenreich Gavin , Wu Junzheng , Silasi Gergely
Published: July 2021

Brain microinfarcts are prevalent in humans, however because of the inherent difficulty of identifying and localizing individual microinfarcts, brain-wide quantification is impractical. In mice, microinfarcts have been created by surgically introducing microemboli into the brain, but a major limitation of this model is the absence of automated methods to identify and localize individual occlusions. We present a novel and semi-automated workflow to identify the anatomic location of fluorescent emboli (microspheres) within the mouse brain through histologic processing and atlas registration. By incorporating vibratome block-face imaging with the QuickNII brain registration tool, we show that the anatomic location of microspheres can be accurately registered to brain structures within the Allen mouse brain (AMB) atlas (e.g., somatomotor areas, hippocampal region, visual areas, etc.). Compared with registering images of slide mounted sections to the AMB atlas, microsphere location was more accurately determined when block-face images were used. As a proof of principle, using this workflow we compared the distribution of microspheres within the brains of mice that were either perfused or immersion fixed. No significant effect of perfusion on total microsphere number or location was detected. In general, microspheres were distributed brain-wide, with the largest density found in the thalamus. In sum, our block-face imaging workflow enables efficient characterization of the widespread distribution of fluorescent microemboli, facilitating future investigation into the impact of microinfarct load and location on brain health.
Effects of coating Populus nigra wood with nanoclay
Authors: Emampour Mostafa , Khademieslam Habibollah , Faezipour Mohammad Mehdi , Talaeipour Mohammad
Published: July 2021

This study evaluated the effects of coating Populus nigra wood with nanoclay by dip-coating and spin-coating. The samples were coated with nanoclay in concentrations of 3, 5, and 7%, and the products were compared with Abies alba wood as standard control for the morphological and moisture properties. Zycosil was also added into nanoclay as an adaptive material. The crystalline and morphological structures were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Performance parameters including water absorption, contact angle, density, and flexural resistance were investigated. Water absorption was decreased, but the density, flexural resistance, and contact angle were increased in nanoclay treatments compared with the P. nigra control group (P<0.05). The best performance properties were observed at a concentration of 7%. In sum, the concentration of 7% nanoclay in dip-coating decreased water absorption by 250% and increased water angle by 150%, density by 113%, and flexural resistance by 145% compared to P. nigra control group.
Digital phonocardiography of cardiac arrhythmias in dogs – Preliminary experiences
Authors: Balogh Márton , Koch Fruzsina , Siver László , Krima Attila , Vörös Károly
Published: July 2021

Electronic stethoscopes and digital phonocardiograms (DPCGs) can be applied when diagnosing cardiac murmurs, but their use for cardiac arrhythmias is not described in veterinary medicine. Data of 10 dogs are presented in this preliminary study, demonstrating the applicability of these techniques. Although the number of artefacts and the amount of baseline noise produced by the two digitising systems used did not differ, the Welch Allyn Meditron system or similar ones capable of simultaneous recording of electrocardiograms (ECGs) and DPCGs provide a better option for clinical research and education, whilst the 3M Littmann 3200 system might be more suitable for everyday clinical settings. A combined system with simultaneous phonocardiogram and ECG, especially with wireless transmission, might be a solution in the future.
New records of four termite species in the genus Embiratermes Fontes, 1985 (Isoptera, Termitidae, Syntermitinae) from South America
Authors: Scheffrahn Rudolf H.
Published: July 2021

Twelve new localities are reported for the following four Embiratermes species: E. ignotus Constantino, 1991; E. latidens (Emerson & Banks, 1957); E. silverstrii (Emerson, 1949); and E. spissus (Emerson & Banks, 1957). The new localities extend the distribution span from 940 km up to 1,800 km. Embiratermes latidens is recorded beyond Amazonia for the first time. The enteric valve armature for workers of these species is provided.
Bidens L. (Coreopsideae, Asteraceae), a new generic record for Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Sakkir Sabitha , Arunraj Parappurakkal Thazhe , Al Mansoori Maitha , Soorae Pritpal
Published: July 2021

We report a collection of Bidens pilosa L. from an urban habitat in Abu Dhabi. This represents a new generic record of Bidens L. for the emirate. The species has most likely been accidentally introduced and has the potential to affect the native flora because of its fast rate of growth. The new record expands the geographic distribution of the species and highlights the importance of expanding surveys to include urban habitats, which would help track the spread of non-native species within the emirate.
Thismia panamensis (Standl.) Jonker (Thismiaceae): first record for southern Brazil
Authors: de Souza Inti
Published: July 2021

A new southernmost record of Thismia panamensis (Standl.) Jonker in Brazil extends the occurrence of this species to the Atlantic Rainforest. This species was found in Parque Estadual Serra da Baitaca, in Paraná state, where other new records of mycoheterotrophic plants have recently been made. The new record highlights the wide distribution of the species, as it occurs in different ecosystems along a significant latitudinal gradient.
CRITERIA FOR ESTIMATING THE SENSORIMOTOR REACTION TIME BY THE SMALL UAV OPERATOR
Authors: Vakaliuk T. A. , Pilkevych I. A. , Tokar A. M. , Loboda R. I.
Published: July 2021

Context. The rapid development of science and technology predetermines a significant expansion of the fields of application of UAVs different purposes. The key to the effective use UAVs is high-quality training of operators, an important element of which is the PPS of candidates, in particular, the assessment of their sensorimotor reactions. This can be achieved by selecting and justifying appropriate criteria.
Objective. The goal of the work is the justification criteria for estimating the time sensorimotor reactions of a small UAV operator by analyzing the density distribution of statistical data.
Method. A method has been developed to determine criteria for evaluating the time of sensorimotor reactions a small UAV operator based on the accumulation statistical material and its mathematical processing based on the results of a field experiment. The method allows to estimate numerical characteristics the distribution of the average reaction time in three modes: training production, in the conditions overload, in the conditions of overtraining and to obtain a generalized estimation. It was possible, by analyzing the occasional noninterruptible values, which take values within a certain range of values, to establish standards against which the obtained values the sensorimotor reaction time of the small UAV operator are compared and a decision is made on their suitability for training.
Results. We obtained statistical series for the modes of assessment: skill development, under obstacle conditions, under conditions skill restructuring. For a visual representation of the series the corresponding histograms the distribution of the average reaction time duration were constructed. In order to eliminate the representativeness error, statistical series alignment was carried out by selecting a theoretical distribution curve for each series, which displays only essential features of the statistical material. For this purpose, we approximated the histogram of distribution by the polynomialf fourth degree. The interval theoretical density of distribution, in which the time sensomotor reaction of an arbitrary person is considered normal, with a given probability reliability such event – 0.95 has been established. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, algorithms for estimating the sensorimotor reaction time of a small UAV operator in three modes have been synthesized and the corresponding software that implements the proposed algorithms has been developed.
Conclusions. The criteria for evaluating the sensorimotor reaction time for UAV operator to a visual stimulus using specialized software were substantiated. This allowed the previous PPS training candidates to take into account the requirements to the motor skills of the small UAV operator and the specificity his movements. The conducted experiments confirmed the validity of decisions made. Prospects for further research may include expansion of testing modes with justification for appropriate evaluation criteria.
COMBINED NEWTON’S THIRD-ORDER CONVERGENCE METHOD FOR MINIMIZE ONE VARIABLE FUNCTIONS
Authors: Kodnyanko V. A. , Grigorieva O. A. , Strok L. V.
Published: July 2021

Contex. The article deals with the actual problem of numerical optimization of slowly computed unimodal functions of one variable. The analysis of existing methods of minimization of the first and second orders of convergence, which showed that these methods can be used to quickly solve these problems for functions, the values of which can be obtained without difficulty. For slowly computed functions, these methods give slow algorithms; therefore, the problem of developing fast methods for minimizing such functions is urgent.

Objective. Development of a combined third-order Newtonian method of convergence to minimize predominantly slowly computed unimodal functions, as well as the development of a database, including smooth, monotonic and partially constant functions, to test the method and compare its effectiveness with other known methods.

Method. A technique and an algorithm for solving the problem of fast minimization of a unimodal function of one variable by a combined numerical Newtonian method of the third order of convergence presented. The method is capable of recognizing strictly unimodal, monotonic and constant functions, as well as functions with partial or complete sections of a flat minimum.

Results. The results of comparison of the proposed method with other methods, including the fast Brent method, presented. 6954 problems were solved using the combined Newtonian method, while the method turned out to be faster than other methods in 95.5% of problems, Brent’s method worked faster in only 4.5% of problems. In general, the analysis of the calculation results showed that the combined method worked 1.64 times faster than the Brent method.

Conclusions. A combined third-order Newtonian method of convergence proposed for minimizing predominantly slowly computed unimodal functions of one variable. A database of problems developed, including smooth, monotone and partially constant functions, to test the method and compare its effectiveness with other known methods. It is shown that the proposed method, in comparison with other methods, including the fast Brent method, has a higher performance.
ONLINE PROBABILISTIC FUZZY CLUSTERING METHOD BASED ON EVOLUTIONARY OPTIMIZATION OF CAT SWARM
Authors: Bodyanskiy Ye. V. , Shafronenko A. Yu. , Klymova I. N.
Published: July 2021

Context. The problems of big data clustering today is a very relevant area of artificial intelligence. This task is often found in many applications related to data mining, deep learning, etc. To solve these problems, traditional approaches and methods require that the entire data sample be submitted in batch form.

Objective. The aim of the work is to propose a method of fuzzy probabilistic data clustering using evolutionary optimization of cat swarm, that would be devoid of the drawbacks of traditional data clustering approaches.

Method. The procedure of fuzzy probabilistic data clustering using evolutionary algorithms, for faster determination of sample extrema, cluster centroids and adaptive functions, allowing not to spend machine resources for storing intermediate calculations and do not require additional time to solve the problem of data clustering, regardless of the dimension and the method of presentation for processing.

Results. The proposed data clustering algorithm based on evolutionary optimization is simple in numerical implementation, is devoid of the drawbacks inherent in traditional fuzzy clustering methods and can work with a large size of input information processed online in real time.

Conclusions. The results of the experiment allow to recommend the developed method for solving the problems of automatic clustering and classification of big data, as quickly as possible to find the extrema of the sample, regardless of the method of submitting the data for processing. The proposed method of online probabilistic fuzzy data clustering based on evolutionary optimization of cat swarm is intended for use in hybrid computational intelligence systems, neuro-fuzzy systems, in training artificial neural networks, in clustering and classification problems.
Towards the History of Spanish Compound Anthroponyms with the Preposition de (Based on the 16th Century Baptismal Registers of Seville’s Parishes)
Authors:   University of Seville, Rodríguez-Toro José-Javier
Published: July 2021

The paper focuses on Spanish compound names with the preposition de (e.g. María de la Concepción, Juan de los Santos, Catalina de Santiago, etc.) retrieved from baptismal books in Seville prior to 1600. This research was outlined years ago by Ramón Menéndez Pidal who studied names with Marian dedication, based mostly on the 17th and 18th centuries sources. The paper reprises the theme but in a more elaborate way: the study is based on baptismal registers from the century preceding 1600 when Menéndez Pidal began his research and on the baptismal books of all parishes of Seville, which makes it possible to draw reliable quantitative conclusions. Besides, the study considers all kinds of names with the preposition de. The corpus contain two kinds of such names: compounds with Marian dedications and those containing a saint’s name (e.g. Fernando de San Pedro, Elvira de San Vicente, Juan de Santo Agustín, etc.). In the 16th century such names were relatively rare: only 115 children are found to have been baptised with a compound name containing preposition de, such names being based on the combination of a first name with one of only 30 dedicative elements (de San Pedro, de la Concepción, etc.). Female names with Marian dedications were almost twice as frequent as compounds with a saint’s name. The analysis shows that in the last case, the choice of the name depended on the catholic calendar: in the overwhelming majority of cases, the newborn baby got baptised immediately on the corresponding saint’s day or some days around this date (all deviances from this practice are discussed in the paper). It is also found that prior to 1600 names with de were characteristic of the most disadvantaged social groups, especially slaves and abandoned children, where the dedicative element that followed the preposition served as a substitute of a missing second name.
Creating a Toponymic Map of the Middle Volga Region Based on the Materials of the P. S. Pallas Expedition of 1768–1769
Authors:   Samara Federal Research Center of the RAS, Institute of Ecology of the Volga Basin of the RAS, Kuznetsova Razina S. , Senator Stepan A. ,   N. V. Tsitsin Main Botanical Garden of the RAS
Published: July 2021

The paper presents a study of toponyms attested by Academician Peter Simon Pallas during his expedition in the Middle Volga region (on the territory of the modern Samara and Ulyanovsk regions) in 1768–1769. The study data is retrieved from his Travels to Different Provinces of the Russian State, published originally in the German language. The book has never been considered as a source on historical toponymy of the Middle Volga Region which explains the authors’ interest to it. The first part of the paper provides various linguo-statistical data on local toponyms found by Pallas: their distribution by types of geographical objects; phonetic, morphological, structural, and other changes that these place names have undergone over 250 years. The second part contains a toponymic map created from Pallas’s records. The map uses GIS technologies and contains information on the geographical distribution of the mentioned Middle Volga toponyms belonging to different cultural strata: most ancient are Iranian, later ones — Finno-Ugric and Turkic, and the latest are Slavic. On the one hand, these materials help restore the linguo-geographic picture of different ethnic groups formerly attested in the Middle Volga region, and on the other hand, they provide a basis for further linguistic research into the regional toponymy.
Cultural Studies of Stone: Stones and Mountains in Folklore, Rites, and Toponymy. Review of the book: Ageeva, R. A. (2019). Kamen’ i gory v narodnoi kul’ture [Stone and Mountains in Popular Culture]. Moscow: Maska. 250 p.
Authors:   Ural Federal University, Kostylev Yuri S.
Published: July 2021

This paper gives an overview of the book Stone and Mountains in Popular Culture by Ruth Ageeva, a monograph that includes a preface, an introduction, seven chapters, an appendix, and a list of oronyms (proper names for mountains and stones) found in the text. The book presents a functional study of the original word stone and its derivatives in oronymy (chapter 1), analyses proper names of individual stones (chapter 2), considers the symbolic connotations of stones’ colour reflected in their names (chapter 3), deals with the image of the Alatyr stone in folk culture (chapter 4), provides a description of megaliths located across the globe (chapter 5), studies figurative names of mountains and volcanoes (chapter 6) and compares the ways of mountains representation in the cultures of different peoples (chapter 7). The research builds on a large amount of data related to the representation of stones and mountains in various cultures, wherein the evidence of East Slavic languages prevails. Methodologically, the study embraces a wide range of contexts including culture studies, folklore studies, ethnolinguistics, etymology, and others. The review notes both the large amount and the theoretical richness of the material giving the reader a full picture of the subject. As the book declares itself to be intended for a wide readership, the introductory theoretical remarks seem very much appropriate. With all the positive aspects of the book under review, the vastness of material is fraught with some deficiencies in its structure. But still this does not undermine the study’s theoretical and practical relevance as it can be of interest both to the general reader and specialists in linguistics, ethnography, cultural studies, as well as a reference source on the proper names of stones and mountains.
Credit constraints and structure: a theoretical model of extractivism and slow-growth dynamics
Authors: GÓMEZ-RAMÍREZ LEOPOLDO , GARZA NESTOR
Published: July 2021

ABSTRACT We develop a theoretical model that explains the relationship between credit constraints and economic growth in the context of a three-sector economy, including an “extractive” sector. The model belongs in the structuralist tradition and it is inspired by the Colombian economy. In contrast to neoclassic development economics models, we prove that: 1) relaxing the credit crunch would foster formal sector growth but it may nevertheless not imply formal employment growth; and 2) the economy can converge to a pattern where the extractive sector increases while the formal one shrinks.
National policy space: reframing the political economy of globalization and its implications for national sovereignty and democracy
Authors: PALLEY THOMAS
Published: July 2021

ABSTRACT This paper critiques the trilemma framing of the political economy of globalization, and offers an alternative framing based on the construction of national policy space. The paper makes three main contributions. First, building on Stein (2016), it deconstructs the categories used by Rodrik (2011) and introduces distinctions between the “degree”, “type”, and “dimensions” of globalization; “effective” versus “formal” national sovereignty; “content” versus “process” of democracy; and “national” versus “global” democracy. The deconstruction shows countries face choices involving a series of margins, not a trilemma. Second, that suggests reframing the problematic in terms of national policy space, which is the “funnel” through which globalization impacts democracy and national sovereignty. Third, the paper shows a country can be impacted by globalization even if it does nothing because other countries’ actions change its possibility set. The reframing shows globalization is an intrinsically political project. To the extent it is now driving a nationalistic anti-democratic turn in politics, responsibility lies with political elites.
EDUCAÇÃO A DISTÂNCIA NO DISCURSO PUBLICITÁRIO: LEGALIZAÇÃO DA MODALIDADE NO BRASIL E SUAS REPRESENTAÇÕES EM COMERCIAIS DA INICIATIVA PRIVADA
Authors: GONÇALVES CLÉBER DOS SANTOS , COSTA MARIA LUISA FURLAN
Published: July 2021

RESUMO: O objetivo final deste trabalho é a análise de regularidades discursivas presentes em comerciais a respeito da Educação a Distância (EaD), levando-se em conta o processo de formalização legal da modalidade no Brasil. Para tanto, selecionamos a campanha “Histórias Inspiradoras”, composta por cinco vídeos e produzida pela Universidade do Norte do Paraná (Unopar) - Instituição de Ensino Superior (IES) de iniciativa privada que possui mais de 300 mil alunos espalhados pelo país. Antes do processo analítico, feito com contribuições da Análise do Discurso (AD) francesa, exploramos aspectos históricos e políticos ligados à formalização e expansão da modalidade no Brasil, bem como sua relação com a educação superior. Como conclusão, compreendemos que, na busca por um número de alunos cada vez mais volumoso, nem sempre os discursos são fiéis aos ideais iniciais apontados para a regulamentação da EaD, vinculados à democratização do acesso à educação superior, e passam a explorar trajetos discursivos como o da facilidade de obtenção de um diploma de graduação.