bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive Control of Fuel Cell Converter Based on a New Hamiltonian Energy Function for Stabilizing the DC Bus in DC Microgrid Applications
Authors: Thounthong Phatiphat , Mungporn Pongsiri , Pierfederici Serge , Guilbert Damien , Bizon Nicu
Published: November 2020

DC microgrid applications include electric vehicle systems, shipboard power systems, and More Electric Aircraft (MEA), which produce power at a low voltage level. Rapid developments in hydrogen fuel cell (FC) energy have extended the applications of multi-phase parallel interleaved step-up converters in stabilizing DC bus voltage. The cascade architecture of power converters in DC microgrids may lead to large oscillation and even risks of instability given that the load converters considered as loads feature constant power load (CPL) characteristics. In this article, the output DC bus voltage stabilization and the current sharing of a multi-phase parallel interleaved FC boost converter is presented. The extended Port-Hamiltonian (pH) form has been proposed with the robust controller by adding an integrator action based on the Lyapunov−Energy function, named “Adaptive Hamiltonian PI controller”. The stability and robustness of the designed controller have been estimated by using Mathematica and Matlab/Simulink environments and successfully authenticated by performing experimental results in the laboratory. The results have been obtained using a 2.5 kW prototype FC converter (by two-phase parallel interleaved boost converters) with a dSPACE MicroLabBox platform. The FC main source system is based on a fuel reformer engine that transforms fuel methanol and water into hydrogen gas H2 to a polymer electrolyte membrane FC stack (50 V, 2.5 kW).
Best Subordinant for Differential Superordinations of Harmonic Complex-Valued Functions
Authors: Oros Georgia Irina
Published: November 2020

The theory of differential subordinations has been extended from the analytic functions to the harmonic complex-valued functions in 2015. In a recent paper published in 2019, the authors have considered the dual problem of the differential subordination for the harmonic complex-valued functions and have defined the differential superordination for harmonic complex-valued functions. Finding the best subordinant of a differential superordination is among the main purposes in this research subject. In this article, conditions for a harmonic complex-valued function p to be the best subordinant of a differential superordination for harmonic complex-valued functions are given. Examples are also provided to show how the theoretical findings can be used and also to prove the connection with the results obtained in 2015.
Electrophoretic Light Scattering and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Studies of Lipid Bilayers Modified by Cinnamic Acid and Its Hydroxyl Derivatives
Authors: Naumowicz Monika , Zając Marcin , Kusaczuk Magdalena , Gál Miroslav , Kotyńska Joanna
Published: November 2020

Pharmacological efficiency of active compounds is largely determined by their membrane permeability. Thus, identification of drug-membrane interactions seems to be a crucial element determining drug-like properties of chemical agents. Yet, knowledge of this issue is still lacking. Since chemoprevention based on natural compounds such as cinnamic acid (CinA), p-coumaric acid (p-CoA) and ferulic (FA) is becoming a strong trend in modern oncopharmacology, determination of physicochemical properties of these anticancer compounds is highly important. Here, electrophoretic light scattering and impedance spectroscopy were applied to study the effects of these phenolic acids on electrical properties of bilayers formed from 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC), 1,2-diacyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-l-serine (PS) or DOPC-PS mixture. After phenolic acid treatment, the negative charge of membranes increased in alkaline pH solutions, but not in acidic ones. The impedance data showed elevated values of both the electrical capacitance and the electrical resistance. We concluded that at acidic pH all tested compounds were able to solubilize into the membrane and permeate it. At neutral and alkaline pH, the CinA could be partially inserted into the bilayers, whereas p-CoA and FA could be anchored at the bilayer surface. Our results indicate that the electrochemical methods might be crucial for predicting pharmacological activity and bioavailability of phenolic acids.
Effect of Alkali Treatment on the Mechanical Properties of Anion-Exchange Membranes with a Poly(vinyl Chloride) Backing and Binder
Authors: Doi Shoichi , Taniguchi Ikuo , Yasukawa Masahiro , Kakihana Yuriko , Higa Mitsuru
Published: November 2020

An alkali treatment under various operating conditions is conducted on a commercial anion-exchange membrane containing poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) as a backing and binder to study the effect of the treatment on the mechanical properties by both Müllen burst and tensile tests. Contrary to our expectations, the Müllen burst pressure and tensile strain at break improved significantly after the alkali treatment in comparison to the pristine membrane and then decreased as the treatment period progressed. A good correlation is observed between the area below the stress–strain curve and burst pressure. To understand the obtained results, the PVC degradates are recovered by Soxhlet extraction and characterized via nuclear magnetic resonance and gel permeation chromatography. It is discovered that the PVC main chains degraded in the alkali solution. We propose a composite model to explain the burst pressure improvement mechanism by the change in the chemical structure of the PVC binder.
Revisiting the Application of Field Dislocation and Disclination Mechanics to Grain Boundaries
Authors: Fressengeas Claude , Taupin Vincent
Published: November 2020

We review the mechanical theory of dislocation and disclination density fields and its application to grain boundary modeling. The theory accounts for the incompatibility of the elastic strain and curvature tensors due to the presence of dislocations and disclinations. The free energy density is assumed to be quadratic in elastic strain and curvature and has nonlocal character. The balance of loads in the body is described by higher-order equations using the work-conjugates of the strain and curvature tensors, i.e., the stress and couple-stress tensors. Conservation statements for the translational and rotational discontinuities provide a dynamic framework for dislocation and disclination motion in terms of transport relationships. Plasticity of the body is therefore viewed as being mediated by both dislocation and disclination motion. The driving forces for these motions are identified from the mechanical dissipation, which provides guidelines for the admissible constitutive relations. On this basis, the theory is expressed as a set of partial differential equations where the unknowns are the material displacement and the dislocation and disclination density fields. The theory is applied in cases where rotational defects matter in the structure and deformation of the body, such as grain boundaries in polycrystals and grain boundary-mediated plasticity. Characteristic examples are provided for the grain boundary structure in terms of periodic arrays of disclination dipoles and for grain boundary migration under applied shear.
Ultra-Low Frequency Eccentric Pendulum-Based Electromagnetic Vibrational Energy Harvester
Authors: Li Mingxue , Deng Huichao , Zhang Yufeng , Li Kexin , Huang Shijie , Liu Xiaowei
Published: November 2020

With the development of low-power technology in electronic devices, the wireless sensor network shows great potential in applications in health tracing and ocean monitoring. These scenarios usually contain abundant low-frequency vibration energy, which can be collected through appropriate energy conversion architecture; thus, the common issue of limited battery life in wireless sensor devices could be solved. Traditional energy-converting structures such as the cantilever-beam type or spring-mass type have the problem of high working frequency. In this work, an eccentric pendulum-based electromagnetic vibration energy harvester is designed, analyzed, and verified with the finite element analysis method. The pendulum that contains alternative distributed magnets in the outer side works as a rotor and has the advantages of a simple structure and low center frequency. The structure size is well scalable, and the optimal output performance can be obtained by optimizing the coil thickness and width for a given diameter of the energy harvester. The simulation results show that the energy harvester could work in ultra-low frequencies of 0.2–3.0 Hz. A full-scale prototype of the energy harvester is manufactured and tested. The center working frequency is 2.0 Hz with an average output power of 8.37 mW, which has potential for application in driving low-power wireless sensor nodes.
Bioleaching of Gold from Sulfidic Gold Ore Concentrate and Electronic Waste by Roseovarius tolerans and Roseovarius mucosus
Authors: Kudpeng Kanjana , Bohu Tsing , Morris Christina , Thiravetyan Paitip , Kaksonen Anna H.
Published: November 2020

Gold bioleaching mediated by iodide oxidizing bacteria (IOB) has been proposed as a sustainable alternative to conventional technologies such as cyanidation. This study evaluated the ability of two IOB sourced from a commercial culture collection, Roseovarius (R.) tolerans DSM 11457T and R. mucosus DSM 17069T, to bioleach gold from electronic waste (e-waste) (1030 ppm gold) and sulfidic gold ore concentrate (45 ppm gold) using one-step, two-step and spent medium leaching at 1% pulp density over 10 days. Two-step bioleaching of ore concentrate resulted in the highest gold leaching yields (approximately ~100% and 34% for R. tolerans and R. mucosus, respectively), followed by spent medium leaching and one-step leaching. The yields remained low for e-waste with both strains (maximum 0.93% and 1.6% for R. tolerans and R. mucosus, respectively) and decreased over time, likely due to the instability of the solubilized gold at relatively low redox potentials (<300 mV vs. Ag/AgCl). Another limiting factor may be the partial inhibition of bacterial growth in the presence of the ore concentrate and e-waste. Therefore, future studies should evaluate the pre-treatment of the ore concentrate and e-waste to remove inhibitory and oxidant consuming compounds before bioleaching with IOB to optimize leaching yields.
The Role of Toll-Like Receptors in Retroviral Infection
Authors: Browne Edward P.
Published: November 2020

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are key pathogen sensing receptors that respond to diverse microbial ligands, and trigger both innate and adaptive immune responses to infection. Since their discovery, a growing body of evidence has pointed to an important role for TLRs in retroviral infection and pathogenesis. These data suggest that multiple TLRs contribute to the anti-retroviral response, and that TLR engagement by retroviruses can have complex and divergent outcomes for infection. Despite this progress, numerous questions remain about the role of TLRs in retroviral infection. In this review, I summarize existing evidence for TLR-retrovirus interactions and the functional roles these receptors play in immunity and pathogenesis, with particular focus on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Isolation and Characterization of Cold-Tolerant Hyper-ACC-Degrading Bacteria from the Rhizosphere, Endosphere, and Phyllosphere of Antarctic Vascular Plants
Authors: Araya Macarena A. , Valenzuela Tamara , Inostroza Nitza G. , Maruyama Fumito , Jorquera Milko A. , Acuña Jacquelinne J.
Published: November 2020

1-Aminociclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC)-degrading bacteria having been widely studied for their use in alleviating abiotic stresses in plants. In the present study, we isolated and characterized ACC-degrading bacteria from the rhizosphere, phyllosphere, and endosphere of the Antarctic vascular plants Deschampsia antarctica and Colobanthus quitensis. One hundred and eighty of the 578 isolates (31%) were able to grow on minimal medium containing ACC, with 101 isolates (23, 37, and 41 endosphere-, phyllosphere- and rhizosphere-associated isolates, respectively) identified as being genetically unique by enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-PCR. Subsequently, freeze/thaw treatments and ice-recrystallization-inhibition (IRI) activity assays were performed, the results of which revealed that 77 (13%) of cold-tolerant isolates exhibited putative ACC deaminase activity. Significant (p ≤ 0.05) differences in IRI activity were also observed between the studied plant niches. Surprisingly, all the cold-tolerant isolates showed ACC deaminase activity, independent of the plant niches, with 12 isolates showing the highest ACC deaminase activities of 13.21–39.56 mmol α KB mg protein−1 h−1. These isolates were categorized as ‘cold-tolerant hyper-ACC-degrading bacteria’, and identified as members of Pseudomonas, Serratia, and Staphylococcus genera. The results revealed the occurrence of cold-tolerant hyper-ACC-degrading bacteria in diverse plant niches of Antarctic vascular plants, that could be investigated as novel microbial inoculants to alleviate abiotic stresses in plants.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus Markers in Patients with Autoimmune Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases in Italy
Authors: Canzoni Marco , Marignani Massimo , Sorgi Maria Laura , Begini Paola , Biondo Michela Ileen , Caporuscio Sara , Colonna Vincenzo , Casa Francesca Della , Conigliaro Paola , Marrese Cinzia , Celletti Eleonora , Modesto Irene , Peragallo Mario Stefano , Laganà Bruno , Picchianti-Diamanti Andrea , Rosa Roberta Di , Ferlito Claudia , Salemi Simonetta , D’Amelio Raffaele , Stroffolini Tommaso
Published: November 2020

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection may be reactivated by immunosuppressive drugs in patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases. This study evaluates HBV serum markers’ prevalence in rheumatic outpatients belonging to Spondyloarthritis, Chronic Arthritis and Connective Tissue Disease diagnostic groups in Italy. The study enrolled 302 subjects, sex ratio (M/F) 0.6, mean age ± standard deviation 57 ± 15 years, 167 (55%) of whom were candidates for immunosuppressive therapy. The Spondyloarthritis group included 146 subjects, Chronic Arthritis 75 and Connective Tissue Disease 83 (two patients had two rheumatic diseases; thus, the sum is 304 instead of 302). Ten subjects (3%) reported previous anti-HBV vaccination and tested positive for anti-HBs alone with a titer still protective (>10 IU/mL). Among the remaining 292 subjects, the prevalence of positivity for HBsAg, isolated anti-HBc, anti-HBc/anti-HBs, and any HBV marker was 2%, 4%, 18%, and 24%, respectively. A total of 26/302 (9%) patients with γ-globulin levels ≤0.7 g/dL were more frequently (p = 0.03455) prescribed immunosuppressive therapy, suggesting a more severe rheumatic disease. A not negligible percentage of rheumatic patients in Italy are at potential risk of HBV reactivation related to immunosuppressive therapy. Before starting treatment, subjects should be tested for HBV markers. Those resulting positive should receive treatment or prophylaxis with Nucleos (t) ides analogue (NUCs) at high barrier of resistance, or pre-emptive therapy, according to the pattern of positive markers. HB vaccination is recommended for those who were never exposed to the virus.
Detection of Parechovirus A1 with Monoclonal Antibody against Capsid Protein VP0
Authors: Kung Ming-Hsiang , Jan Ming-Wei , Chen Jih-Jung , Shieh Yi-Chien , Chang Tsung-Hsien
Published: November 2020

Parechovirus A (PeV-A; human parechovirus) causes mild infections and severe diseases such as neonatal sepsis, encephalitis, and cardiomyopathy in young children. Among the 19 types of PeV-A, PeV-A1 is the most common type of infection. We have previously established an immunofluorescence assay for detecting multiple PeV-A types with a polyclonal antibody against the conserved epitope of VP0. Although the polyclonal antibody is useful for PeV-A diagnosis, it could not distinguish the PeV-A genotypes. Thus, the development of a specific monoclonal antibody for identifying the common infection of PeV-A1 would be beneficial in clinical diagnosis practice. In this study, the recombinant full-length PeV-A1 VP0 protein was used in mouse immunization; a total 10 hybridomas were established. After evaluation by immunoblotting and fluorescence assays, six hybridoma clones with monoclonal antibody (mAb) production were confirmed. These mAbs, which specifically recognize viral protein PeV-A1 VP0 without cross-reactivity to PeV-A3, will prove useful in research and PeV-A1 diagnosis.
Langmuir Films of Perfluorinated Fatty Alcohols: Evidence of Spontaneous Formation of Solid Aggregates at Zero Surface Pressure and Very Low Surface Density
Authors: Silva Pedro , Nova Duarte , Teixeira Miguel , Cardoso Vitória , Morgado Pedro , Nunes Bruno , Colaço Rogério , Fauré Marie-Claude , Fontaine Philippe , Goldmann Michel , Filipe Eduardo
Published: November 2020

In this work, Langmuir films of two highly fluorinated fatty alcohols, CF3(CF2)12CH2OH (F14OH) and CF3(CF2)16CH2OH (F18OH), were studied. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) images of the films transferred at zero surface pressure and low surface density onto the surface of silicon wafers by the Langmuir-Blodgett technique revealed, for the first time, the existence of solid-like domains with well-defined mostly hexagonal (starry) shapes in the case of F18OH, and with an entangled structure of threads in the case of F14OH. A (20:80) molar mixture of the two alcohols displayed a surprising combination of the two patterns: hexagonal domains surrounded by zigzagging threads, clearly demonstrating that the two alcohols segregate during the 2D crystallization process. Grazing Incidence X-ray Diffraction (GIXD) measurements confirmed that the molecules of both alcohols organize in 2D hexagonal lattices. Atomistic Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations provide a visualization of the structure of the domains and allow a molecular-level interpretation of the experimental observations. The simulation results clearly showed that perfluorinated alcohols have an intrinsic tendency to aggregate, even at very low surface density. The formed domains are highly organized compared to those of hydrogenated alcohols with similar chain length. Very probably, this tendency is a consequence of the characteristic stiffness of the perfluorinated chains. The diffraction spectrum calculated from the simulation trajectories compares favorably with the experimental spectra, fully validating the simulations and the proposed interpretation. The present results highlight for the first time an inherent tendency of perfluorinated chains to aggregate, even at very low surface density, forming highly organized 2D structures. We believe these findings are important to fully understand related phenomena, such as the formation of hemi-micelles of semifluorinated alkanes at the surface of water and the 2D segregation in mixed Langmuir films of hydrogenated and fluorinated fatty acids.
The Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Performance of Nitrogen-Doped TiO2: Surface-Structure Dependence and Silver-Deposition Effect
Authors: Wafi Abdul , Szabó-Bárdos Erzsébet , Horváth Ottó , Pósfai Mihály , Makó Éva , Juzsakova Tatjána , Fónagy Orsolya
Published: November 2020

Catalysts for visible-light-driven oxidative cleaning processes and antibacterial applications (also in the dark) were developed. In order to extend the photoactivity of titanium dioxide into the visible region, nitrogen-doped TiO2 catalysts with hollow and non-hollow structures were synthesized by co-precipitation (NT-A) and sol–gel (NT-U) methods, respectively. To increase their photocatalytic and antibacterial efficiencies, various amounts of silver were successfully loaded on the surfaces of these catalysts by using a facile photo-deposition technique. Their physical and chemical properties were evaluated by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (TEM–EDS), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS). The photocatalytic performances of the synthesized catalysts were examined in coumarin and 1,4-hydroquinone solutions. The results showed that the hollow structure of NT-A played an important role in obtaining high specific surface area and appreciable photoactivity. In addition, Ag-loading on the surface of non-hollow structured NT-U could double the photocatalytic performance with an optimum Ag concentration of 10−6 mol g−1, while a slight but monotonous decrease was caused in this respect for the hollow surface of NTA upon increasing Ag concentration. Comparing the catalysts with different structures regarding the photocatalytic performance, silverized non-hollow NT-U proved competitive with the hollow NT-A catalyst without Ag-loading for efficient visible-light-driven photocatalytic oxidative degradations. The former one, due to the silver nanoparticles on the catalyst surface, displayed an appreciable antibacterial activity, which was comparable to that of a reference material practically applied for disinfection in polymer coatings.
Long-Term Toxicity of ZnO Nanoparticles on Scenedesmus rubescens Cultivated in Semi-Batch Mode
Authors: Aravantinou Andriana F. , Andreou Fytoula , Manariotis Ioannis D.
Published: November 2020

The scope of this study was to investigate the toxic effects of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) on freshwater microalgae, in long-term semi-batch feeding mode at two different hydraulic retention times (HRTs) (20 and 40 days). A freshwater microalgae, Scenedesmus rubescens, was employed and exposed to a semi-continuous supply of ZnO NPs at a low concentration of 0.081 mg/L for a period of 28 d. Experiments were conducted under controlled environmental conditions. Τhe impact of ZnO NPs on S. rubescens, which was assessed in terms of nutrient removal, biomass growth, and algal lipid content. Semi-batch mode cultures showed that low ZnO NP concentrations at an HRT of 40 d did not have any negative effect on microalgae growth after the fourth day of culture. In contrast, algal growth was inhibited up to 17.5% at an HRT of 20 d in the presence of ZnO NPs. This might be attributed to the higher flow rate applied and ZnO NPs load. A positive correlation between nutrient removal and microalgae growth was observed. The algal lipid content was, in most cases, higher in the presence of ZnO NPs at both HRTs, indicating that even low ZnO NPs concentration cause stress resulting in higher lipid content.
Increased Prevalence of Liver Fibrosis and HIV Viremia among Patients with HIV, HBV, and Tuberculosis in Botswana
Authors: Phinius Bonolo B. , Anderson Motswedi , Bhebhe Lynnette , Baruti Kabo , Manowe Godiraone , Choga Wonderful T. , Mupfumi Lucy , Mbangiwa Tshepiso , Mudanga Mbatshi , Moyo Sikhulile , Marlink Richard , Blackard Jason T. , Gaseitsiwe Simani
Published: November 2020

People with concomitant human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) have an increased risk of hepatotoxic reactions due to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and anti-TB therapy (ATT). Concomitant hepatitis B virus (HBV) in these patients may lead to poorer health outcomes. To assess liver enzyme levels and immune response in adults with HIV, HBV, and TB, data from 300 antiretroviral-naïve people living with HIV (PLWHIV) were analyzed. The prevalence of HIV/HBV (cHIV/HBV) and HIV/TB (cHIV/TB) was 28% (95% CI: 23.0–33.4) and 10% (95% CI: 6.8–14.0), respectively. HIV/HBV/TB (cHIV/HBV/TB) prevalence was 5.3% (95% CI: 3.1–8.5). There was a statistically significant difference between the groups of participants in HIV viral load (p = 0.004), hemoglobin levels (p = 0.025), and body mass index (p = 0.011). A larger proportion of cHIV/HBV/TB participants (37.5%) had an aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI) score ≥0.5 (p = 0.013), a lower cutoff for significant liver fibrosis. Immunological non-responders (CD4+ T-cell count <20% gain and HIV viral load <400 copies/mL at 6 months) were observed in all groups except those with cHIV/TB. Our findings support the need to screen for infections that could cause excessive liver damage prior to ATT or ART initiation, such as HBV.
Dual-Core Fiber-Based Interferometer for Detection of Gas Refractive Index
Authors: Chen Haijin , Hu Xuehao , He Meifan , Yu Qianqing , Lian Zhenggang , Yang Zicheng , Wang Heng , Qu Hang
Published: November 2020

We demonstrate a dual-core fiber-based Mach–Zehnder interferometer that could be used for precise detection of variations in refractive indices of gaseous samples. The fiber used here have a solid germanium-doped silica core and an air core that allows gases to flow through. Coherent laser beams are coupled to the two cores, respectively, and thus excite guiding modes thereby. Interferogram would be produced as the light transmitted from the dual cores interferes. Variations in refractive index of the hollow core lead to variations in phase difference between the modes in the two cores, thus shifting the interference fringes. The fringe shifts can be then interrogated by a photodiode together with a narrow slit in front. The resolution of the sensor was found to be ~1 × 10−8 RIU, that is comparable to the highest resolution obtained by other fiber sensors reported in previous literatures. Other advantages of our sensor include very low cost, high sensitivity, straightforward sensing mechanism, and ease of fabrication.
The Late Quaternary Evolution of the Upper Reaches of Fluvial Systems in the Southern East European Plain
Authors: Panin Andrey , Borisova Olga , Konstantinov Evgeny , Belyaev Yury , Eremenko Ekaterina , Zakharov Andrey , Sidorchuk Aleksey
Published: November 2020

Networks of dry valleys (or balkas) and hollows in the upper reaches of fluvial basins in extraglacial areas in the Penultimate Glaciation (Marine Isotope Stage 6—MIS 6) regions of the East European Plain demonstrate clear incision/aggradation rhythms corresponding to global glacial/interglacial climate cycles. The first phase of each incision/aggradation rhythm began after the global glacial maximum and was characterized by a cool and humid climate, permafrost and sparse vegetation, when high surface runoff and active linear erosion formed a dense network of gullies. The second phase occurred at the glacial–interglacial transition and the subsequent interglacial period with its warm and humid climate and dense vegetation. This phase was distinguished by the partial filling of fluvial forms with slopewash deposits, the transformation of gullies into dry valleys (balkas) and the subsequent stabilization of fluvial forms marked by the formation of mature soils on the sides and bottoms of balkas. The third phase of the rapid accumulation of balkas developed during the cold and dry part of the next glacial epoch, resulting in the balkas becoming shallow hollows filled in with sediments. The last full incision/aggradation rhythm occurred in the late MIS 6 to mid-MIS 2. The erosion network formed during the late MIS 6 was almost completely filled by mid-MIS 2, and its manifestation in the modern topography is limited to a network of shallow hollows in the upper parts of the fluvial systems. The modern (incomplete) incision/aggradation rhythm began in the late MIS 2 and caused the formation of the modern erosion landscape in the upper reaches of fluvial systems. This rhythm is now in the stabilization phase, and the main accumulation phase of this rhythm is still far in the future.
The Regulation of Religious Communities in the Late Middle Ages: A Comparative Approach to Ming China and Pre-Reformation England
Authors: Li Teng , Salonia Matteo
Published: November 2020

This article examines the regulation of religious life in the late Middle Ages (14th and 15th centuries), focusing comparatively on Catholic monastic communities in pre-Reformation England and Buddhist monasticism in early Ming China. This comparative approach to two of the most important monastic traditions across Eurasia allows us to problematize the paradigm of ideas and praxes surrounding monastic self-governance in Latin Christendom and to integrate the current scholarship on Ming regulation of religious communities by investigating the pivotal changes in imperial religious policies taking place in the early period of this dynasty. We find that monks and secular authorities at the two ends of Eurasia often shared the same concerns about the discipline of religious men and women, the administration of their properties, and the impact of these communities on society at large. Yet, the article identifies significant differences in the responses given to these concerns. Through the analysis of primary sources that have thus far been overlooked, we show how in early Ming China the imperial government imposed a strict control over the education, ordination and disciplining of Buddhist monks. This bureaucratic system was especially strengthened during the reign of Zhu Yuanzhang (r. 1368–1398), when the figure of the Monk-Official and other tools of secular regulation were introduced, and limits to property claims and economic activities of monasteries were imposed. Instead, during the same period, English monasteries benefited from the previous disentangling of the Church from secular political authorities across Europe. In fact, in late medieval England, the Benedictine tradition of self-governance and independence from the secular sphere was arguably even more marked than in the rest of the continent.
Artificial Intelligence Research and Its Contributions to the European Union’s Political Governance: Comparative Study between Member States
Authors: Reis João , Santo Paula , Melão Nuno
Published: November 2020

In the last six decades, many advances have been made in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Bearing in mind that AI technologies are influencing societies and political systems differently, it can be useful to understand what are the common issues between similar states in the European Union and how these political systems can collaborate with each other, seeking synergies, finding opportunities and saving costs. Therefore, we carried out an exploratory research among similar states of the European Union, in terms of scientific research in areas of AI technologies, namely: Portugal, Greece, Austria, Belgium and Sweden. A key finding of this research is that intelligent decision support systems (IDSS) are essential for the political decision-making process, since politics normally deals with complex and multifaceted decisions, which involve trade-offs between different stakeholders. As public health is becoming increasingly relevant in the field of the European Union, the IDSSs can provide relevant contributions, as it may allow sharing critical information and assist in the political decision-making process, especially in response to crisis situations.
Intergroup Threat and Heterosexual Cisgender Women’s Support for Policies Regarding the Admittance of Trans Women at a Women’s College
Authors: Outten H. , Lawrence Marcella
Published: November 2020

Although spaces once reserved for cisgender women are becoming increasingly accessible to trans women, few studies have examined cisgender women’s responses to such changes. Informed by social identity perspectives, we examined if heterosexual cisgender women’s reactions to two types of women’s college admissions policies pertaining to trans women depended on their appraisals of intergroup threat—or the degree to which they perceived trans women as a threat to cisgender women. Four-hundred-and-forty heterosexual cisgender women completed a measure of intergroup threat and then read 1 of 2 articles about a women’s college’s admissions policy (accept trans women vs. reject trans women). Following the article, they indicated their support for the policy they read about. Overall, participants were significantly more supportive of the admissions policy when it was framed as being inclusive of trans women. The effect of policy type on policy support was moderated by intergroup threat. Specifically, women who were not particularly threatened by trans women expressed significantly more policy support when the policy was described as being inclusive of trans women, rather than as exclusionary. Alternatively, highly threatened women were significantly more likely to show support when the policy was described in terms of excluding trans women.
Modified Newtonian Gravity, Wide Binaries and the Tully-Fisher Relation
Authors: Acedo Luis
Published: November 2020

A recent study of a sample of wide binary star systems from the Hipparcos and Gaia catalogues has found clear evidence of a gravitational anomaly of the same kind as that appearing in galaxies and galactic clusters. Instead of a relative orbital velocity decaying as the square root of the separation, ΔV∝r−1/2, it was shown that an asymptotic constant velocity is reached for distances of order 0.1 pc. If confirmed, it would be difficult to accommodate this breakdown of Kepler’s laws within the current dark matter (DM) paradigm because DM does not aggregate in small scales, so there would be very little DM in a 0.1 pc sphere. In this paper, we propose a simple non-Newtonian model of gravity that could explain both the wide binaries anomaly and the anomalous rotation curves of galaxies as codified by the Tully-Fisher relation. The required extra potential can be understood as a Klein-Gordon field with a position-dependent mass parameter. The extra forces behave as 1/r on parsec scales and r on Solar system scales. We show that retrograde anomalous perihelion precessions are predicted for the planets. This could be tested by precision ephemerides in the near future.
Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria Interference with BCG-Current Controversies and Future Directions
Authors: Verma Deepshikha , Chan Edward D. , Ordway Diane J.
Published: November 2020

The global tuberculosis (TB) epidemic caused by the bacterial pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) continues unabated. The Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccination is widely utilized worldwide to protect against infection with M.tb. BCG vaccine protection against TB has had widely varying results for reasons that are not well understood. BCG vaccine interference by non-tuberculosis (NTM) mycobacterial species has been implicated as the potential cause of reduced BCG vaccine efficacy against M.tb. Ongoing efforts to develop new vaccines for TB requires a thorough understanding of the effect of NTM exposure on BCG vaccine efficacy, which may ultimately be a critical determinant of success. We reviewed the conflicting reports on whether NTM interferes with the BCG vaccine, potential explanations to help resolve the controversy, and strategies for developing better animal models. Further studies are needed to longitudinally track the effects of NTM exposure on BCG vaccine-induced host-protective anti-TB immunity.
Ultrasonographic Monitoring in 38 Dogs with Clinically Suspected Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Puccini Leoni Federico , Pelligra Tina , Citi Simonetta , Marchetti Veronica , Gori Eleonora , Puccinelli Caterina
Published: November 2020

Abdominal ultrasound examinations (AUEs) are commonly used in the diagnostic evaluation of canine acute pancreatitis (AP). The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate and monitor the ultrasonographic changes observed in dogs with clinically suspected AP on consecutive AUEs. The study population was constituted by 38 client-owned dogs hospitalized for no less than 48 h from January 2016 to December 2019. Dogs included in this study were suspected of AP based on the clinical examination and abnormal rapid specific canine pancreatic lipase test performed at admission. Dogs were submitted to two AUEs, the first on the first day of hospitalization, and the second between 40–52 h after the first one. Twelve dogs had both AUEs suggestive of AP. Fourteen dogs received an ultrasonographic diagnosis of AP exclusively on the second AUE. Twelve dogs remained negative on both the first and the second AUE. In 26 out of 38 patients the second AUE was suggestive of AP. If a patient is suspected of AP, it is advisable to carry out ultrasonographic monitoring at least within the first 52 h after admission, since ultrasonographic signs of AP may only become observable later after hospitalization.
Artificial intelligence in economy and policy nowadays. Article 2. Artificial intelligence as goods and service
Authors: Leksin V.N.
Published: November 2020

The second article of the three-part series «Artificial intelligence in the economy and politics of our time» presents the results of research on the development of the market for artificial intelligence (AI). It shows the typicality and specificity of this market and identifies the problems of studying it in the absence of necessary statistics and an acute shortage of legal regulations of the AI market. The main suppliers of artificial intelligence developments are identified and characterized, and market offers for the banking sector are also analyzed. Data on shares of companies implementing artificial intelligence developments are summarized, and an example of the use of such developments in exchange activities is given. Mechanisms of state stimulation of applied artificial intelligence development and creation of alliances and consortia of the largest scientific and technological corporations to accelerate these developments are considered separately.
The regional labour market: demography and economy of the Republic of Karelia
Authors: Rudakov M.N.
Published: November 2020

The interaction between demographic and economical factors of the development of the regional labour market is being considered. The analysis of the dynamics of key economical-demographic indexes is completed on the base of the wholly period of market transformation. The idea that the market transformations determined not only the structural changes of the economy, but also the adequate intersectoral displacement of labour resources and so the labour sphere optimization is approved. The defining reaction of the labour market on the structural dynamics of the economy caused the growth of institutional variety of employment’s forms.
PENGARUH SIKAP KEWIRAUSAHAAN DAN KOMPETENSI WIRAUSAHA TERHADAP KEBERHASILAN USAHA PADA PRODUSEN SEPATU CIBADUYUT KOTA BANDUNG
Authors: Octavia Jayanthi
Published: November 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendapatkan hasil kajian mengenai; (1) Sikap Kewirausahaan, Kompetensi dan Keberhasilan Usaha, (2) Hubungan Sikap Kewirausahaan dan Kompetensi, (3) Pengaruh Sikap Kewirausahaan terhadap Keberhasilan Usaha, (4) Pengaruh Kompetensi terhadap Keberhasilan Usaha.Jenis penelitian yang digunakan adalah deskriptif dan verifikatif. Populasi adalah Para Produsen Sepatu Cibaduyut Bandung. Jumlah sample yang diambil sebanyak 73. penarikan sample dilakukan dengan metode sample acak. Model pengaruh menggunakan path analysis dengan LISREL 8.80.Hasil penelitian ini mempunyai kesesuaian dalam menjelaskan keterkaitan antar variabel. diperoleh hasil bahwa: Sikap Kewirausahaan, Kompetensi dan Keberhasilan Usaha berada pada kategori baik. Sikap Kewirausahaan dan Kompetensi memiliki hubungan yang erat, Sikap Kewirausahaan berpengaruh terhadap Keberhasilan Usaha, dan Kompetensi berpengaruh terhadap Keberhasilan Usaha.
Pengaruh Rekrutmen dan Pelatihan Terhadap Kinerja Atlet pada PB Djarum Indonesia
Authors: Ratnati Ira
Published: November 2020

Penurunan kinerja atlet PB Djarum Indonesia yang dilihat dari pencapaian prestasi di tahun 2012 dan 2013 bisa menjadi merupakan dampak dari perubahan pola rekrutmen dan pelatihan yang dilakukan oleh PB Djarum. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan tujuan untuk mengetahui dan menguji faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi kinerja atlet dengan variabel rekrutmen dan pelatihan pada PB Djarum secara parsial dan simultan.Dalam penelitian ini penulis menggunakan tiga variabel yaitu Rekrutmen dan Pelatihan sebagai variabel independent (X) dan Kinerja sebagai variabel dependent (Y). Sampel yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah 202 atlet PB Djarum. Analisis statistik yang digunakan adalah SEM dengan tingkat signifikan (α) 5% dan dengan bantuan penggunaan program LISREL 8.72.Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dan pembahasan bahwa selama periode penelitian secara parsial rekrutmen berpengaruh tidak signifikan terhadap kinerja atlet dan rekrutmen berpengaruh signifikan terhadap kinerja atlet. Secara simultan rekrutmen dan pelatihan mempengaruhi kinerja atlet. Besarnya pengaruh tersebut adalah 58%. Sedangkan sisanya sebesar 42 % dipengaruhi faktor lain di luar penelitian atau di luar persamaan regresi.
Implementasi Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu dan Shitsuke di PT. Laksana Kurnia Mandiri Sejati Bandung dan Pengaruhnya Terhadap Efektivitas Organisasi
Authors: Hernawan Yosep
Published: November 2020

Dalam penelitian ini peneliti menggunakan lima variabel yaitu seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu dan shitsuke sebagai variabel independent (X) dan efektivitas organisasi sebagai variabel dependent (Y). Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan tujuan untuk mengetahui implementasi dan mengetahui sejauh mana faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi efektivitas organisasi dengan variabel yaitu seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu dan shitsuke di PT. Laksana Kurnia Mandiri Bandung.Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah para operator lantai produksi dan maintenance serta supervisor produksi dan supervisor maintenance. Teknik sampel yang digunakan yaitu teknik sampel Slovin, didapatkan jumlah sampel sebanyak 150 dengan penambahan sampai 200. Analisis statistik yang digunakan adalah analisis jalur, Uji T dan Uji F dengan tingkat signifikan (α) 5% dan dengan bantuan penggunaan program IBM SPSS 20.Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dan pembahasan selama periode penelitian, hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa implementasi seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu dan shitsuke belum diterapkan secara optimal walaupun berdasarkan hasil perhitungan statistik seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu dan shitsuke mempunyai pengaruh terhadap efektivitas organisasi dengan nilai yang berbeda-beda.
ПРОБЛЕМИ ВИЗНАЧЕННЯ ПРАВОВОЇ ПРИРОДИ ДОГОВОРУ ПРО ПОДІЛ СПІЛЬНОГО МАЙНА ПОДРУЖЖЯ
Authors: Пономаренко О. М.
Published: November 2020

The article is devoted to the study of the legal nature of the agreement on the division of the common property of spouses. The author comes to the conclusion about his civil law essence. It is concluded that this agreement is a material agreement, is not aimed at creating obligations between the parties, but at changing the legal regime of the common property of the spouses. The opinion is expressed that the determination of the legal nature of the agreement on the division of spouses’ property as a material civil law contract will significantly affect its regulatory regulation and the choice of ways to protect the violated rights of one of the parties.
ТРУДО-ПРАВОВА ПРИРОДА ВІДНОСИН ЩОДО ВИКОНАННЯ ОБОВ’ЯЗКІВ СУДДІ У ВИГЛЯДІ ЗДІЙСНЕННЯ ПРАВОСУДДЯ
Authors: Власенко М. В.
Published: November 2020

The purpose of the article is to determine the nature of the relationship regarding the performance of the judge's duties in the form of the administration of justice. The labor-legal subtext of the categories used in the Law of Ukraine «On the Judiciary and the Status of Judges» to characterize the relationship of justice by professional judges, despite the complete absence of the words «labor» or «labor relations». The author establishes the criteria that characterize the legal regulation of the judge's activity in the form of administration of justice, which testifies to the labor-legal nature of the relations arising in this connection regarding the performance of judges' duties. Based on them, it is concluded that the judge administers justice as his / her labor function, because the legal regulation of the grounds for carrying out this activity, the organization of support of its professional performance testify to constant, systematically paid, qualified work. Thus, it provides grounds for establishing the labor law nature of the relationship regarding the performance of the judge's duties in the form of administration of justice.
ДО ПИТАННЯ ПРО УПОВНОВАЖЕНОГО ІЗ СОЦІАЛЬНИХ ПРАВ ГРОМАДЯН
Authors: Прийменко О. С.
Published: November 2020

The purpose of the article is to analyze the feasibility of introducing a specialized authorized person (ombudsman) to improve the system of state control over observance of social rights (primarily, the right to social protection). It is noted that the issue of introducing the commissioner for social rights of citizens has not received due attention from scientists. A large number of citizens' appeals to various state bodies regarding violations of social rights is an im­portant argument for regulating the status of the commissioner for social rights of citizens at the legislative level. The article presents a list of the main tasks of the commissioner for social rights of citizens, taking into account the experience of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Commissioner for Human Rights and various specialized ombudsmen.
ПСИХОЛОГІЧНІ ДЕТЕРМІНАНТИ МОДУЛЬНО-РОЗВИВАЛЬНОЇ ВЗАЄМОДІЇ УЧАСНИКІВ ІННОВАЦІЙНОГО НАВЧАННЯ
Authors: Гірняк Андрій
Published: November 2020

Актуальність проблеми. Соціалізація молоді в умовах інформаційної постіндустріальної) формації суспільства потребує нової соціально ефективної, психологічно інтенсивної та індивідуально прийнятної моделі організації та перебігу освітнього процесу, котра б впроваджувалася як інноваційна єдність цілей і завдань, змісту і форм, технологій і методів, засобів і результатів неперервної міжсуб’єктної взаємодії. Одним із перспективних напрямів розробки цієї проблематики є теорія модульно-розвивальної системи освіти, яка на нових методологічних засадах інтегрує здобутки основних концепцій розвивального навчання.

Мета дослідження - обґрунтування на теоретико-методологічному рівні пізнання психологічних детермінант модульно-розвивальної взаємодії суб’єктів освітнього процесу у сучасному ЗВО.

Методи: теоретико-методологічний аналіз інноваційних розвивальних підходів у сфері освіти; критичний аналіз та порівняння моделей організації особистісного розвитку; рефлексія формо-змістових переваг експериментальної модульно-розвивальної системи навчання; теоретичне абстрагування, синтез та узагальнення здобутків закордонних та вітчизняних науковців для обґрунтування психологічних детермінант процесу розвивальної взаємодії учасників інноваційного навчання; моделювання загальних характеристик та сутнісних ознак чотирьох загальноосвітніх принципів (ментальності, духовності, розвитковості і модульності), реалізація котрих уможливлює налагодження безперервної паритетної взаємодії в освітньому процесі сучасного ЗВО.

Результати. Обґрунтовано психологічні детермінанти проективного переходу вітчизняної вищої освіти від директивно-екстенсивних до психологічно інтенсивних моделей соціалізації молоді на засадах паритетності. Окреслено формо-змістові переваги системи модульно-розвивального навчання за котрого створюється соціокультурно опосередкований простір неперервної розвивально-діалогічної взаємодії між суб’єктами освітнього процесу. Обстоюється ідея, що саме остання активізує інформаційний обмін та психодуховні взаємовпливи, а відтак забезпечує гармонійний психосоціальний розвиток кожної особистості. Також у статті уточнюється та конкретизується змістове наповнення чотирьох засадничих загальноосвітніх принципів (ментальності, духовності, розвитковості і модульності), вимоги котрих повновагомо реалізуються завдяки технологіям цілісного модульно-розвивального процесу.