bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in structural-phase state and physicochemical properties of tungsten-free TIC-TiNi hard alloys after various types of ion-beam treatment
Authors:   Siberian State Automobile and Highway University, Akimov V. V. , Badamshin A. M. ,   Omsk State Technical University, Nesov S. N. ,   Omsk State Technical University, Povoroznyuk S. N. ,   Omsk State Technical University, Krutko A. A. ,   Omsk State Technical University, Sidorova Ya. A. ,   Siberian State Automobile and Highway University
Published: April 2021

Using experimental methods of analysis, the morphology, elemental composition and chemical state of hard alloys of the «TiC-TiNi» system in the initial state and after various types of ion-beam treatment have been investigated. It is found that the effect of a continuous ion beam leads to an increase in the microhardness of the investigated alloys by 10–12 %. When samples are irradiated with a pulsed ion beam, as a result of destruction of surface layers, the microhardness value decreases by 20 %, as a result of which this type of modification is not preferable for alloys of the TiC-TiNi system
Secondary lymphedema: Pathogenesis
Authors: Varghese Smitha Ancy
Published: April 2021

Secondary lymphedema follows an acquired defect in the lymphatic system. The common causes leading to a defective lymphatic function include infection, inflammation, malignancy, trauma, obesity, immobility, and therapeutic interventions. Understanding the pathogenesis of lymphedema is of prime importance in offering effective treatment. The pathogenetic mechanisms such as lymphatic valvular insufficiency, obliteration/ disruption of lymphatic vessels, and decreased lymphatic contractility aggravate lymphatic hypertension and lymphstasis. Accumulation of lymph, interstitial fluid, proteins, and glycosaminoglycans within the skin and subcutaneous tissue eventually stimulates collagen production by fibroblasts, causes disruption of elastic fibers, and activates keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and adipocytes. These result in thickening of skin and cause fibrosis of subcutaneous tissue. However, the sequence of these pathomechanisms, their inter-relationship and progression vary depending on the specific etiology of the lymphedema. In this article, we discuss the possible cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis. Further studies to delineate the exact sequence of pathogenic processes surrounding the primary triggering event can help to formulate tailored therapeutic approaches.
The effectiveness of concomitant strabismus treatment in children with hyperopia by botulinum toxin type A chemodenervation
Authors:   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Rosello Quesada N.M. , Migel D.V. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow,   Voyno-Yasenetsky Scientific and Practical Center of Specialized Medical Care for Children, Moscow, Ostanina I.A. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Cha V.S. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Sidorenko E.I. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Sidorenko E.E. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow,   Voyno-Yasenetsky Scientific and Practical Center of Specialized Medical Care for Children, Moscow
Published: April 2021

Purpose. Evaluation of the effectiveness of concomitant strabismus treatment in children with hyperopia by botulinum toxin type A chemodenervation. Materials and methods. The effectiveness of using botulinum toxin type A chemodenervation was studied in 115 children (230 eyes) from 8 months to 15 years old with concomitant convergent strabismus and hyperopic refraction. All patients were divided into 3 groups: group 1–17 patients with strabismus angle up to 15° according to Hirshberg, group 2–34 patients with strabismus angle from 15 to 25° according to Hirshberg, group 3–64 patients with strabismus angle more than 25° according to Hirshberg. All children received an injection of botulinum toxin type A into the horizontal oculomotor muscles at an average dosage of 3.4. Results. In most cases (68.70%), a positive effect was achieved after one injection. Two injections were given to 30 patients (26.09%), 6 patients were given 3 injections (5.22%). Repeated injections, most often (19.13%), were required in patients with a strabismus angle of more than 25 degrees. The effectiveness of strabismus treatment depends on the initial value of the angle and the adequately selected dose. Most often, a positive result of treatment was observed after one injection of botulinum toxin type A with a volume of 2 to 4. We did not find any complications when using the denervation method. Conclusion. The method of botulinum toxin type A chemodenervation is effective in the treatment of concomitant strabismus in children with hyperopia. Key words: botulinum toxin type A, concomitant strabismus, chemodenervation, children, hyperopia.
Morphological features of experimental chronic tonsillitis
Authors:   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Obrubov S.A. ,   Children's Clinical Hospital, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Stavitskaya G.V. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Khokonova E.A. ,   Children's City Polyclinic No. 32, Moscow, Gubanov A.A. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Chinenov I.M. ,   Children's Clinical Hospital, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Khaidarov Z.B. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow
Published: April 2021

Purpose. To study the morphological features of the palatine tonsils of experimental animals in normal conditions and during the modeling of chronic tonsillitis. Material and methods. A model of experimental chronic tonsillitis was created on 15 rabbits, 5 animals were included in the control group. Chronic tonsillitis was simulated under general anesthesia. Staphylococcus aureus was injected into the palatine tonsils of animals in a dose of 3 million microbial bodies. Morphological studies of the tissues of the palatine tonsils of animals in the control group and the experimental group were carried out one month after modeling. Results. The results of a morphological study of the tonsils of the experimental group of rabbits clearly demonstrated manifestations of chronic tonsillitis (proliferation of connective tissue in the subepithelial layer, weakening of the muscle tone of the vessels with a simultaneous change in the permeability of the vascular wall, developing hyalinosis). Conclusion. Morphological studies of the tonsils have confirmed the similarity of the modeled chronic pathology with the disease of a similar human organ. Key words: palatine tonsils, rabbits, chronic tonsillitis model, morphological studies.
Treatment strategy for the tumor cyst of the medulla in an eloquent area: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Fedirko Volodymyr O. , Naboichenko Andrii G. , Iehorov Mykola V. , Trеtiakova Albina I. , Malysheva Oleksandra Y.
Published: April 2021

This is a clinical case of a 24-year-old woman with the unrescetable cystic tumor of the medulla because of eloquent area involved and severe neurological symptoms caused by the recurrent cystic component. The patient underwent emptying the cyst twice previously by means of safe entry zone myelotomy. Later there was a recurrence of the cyst with a significant neurological and oweral deterioration which is typical for such neoplasms.
Recurrent cystic mass-effect was resolved with the help of newly designed device implanted. It provided simultaneous stable cisternal drainage and an opportunity for active aspiration via Ommaya reservoir.
Ligand-Metal Charge Transfer Induced via Adjustment of Textural Properties Controls the Performance of Single-Atom Catalysts During Photocatalytic Degradation
Authors: Liu Jiaxu , Zou Yajun , Cruz Daniel , Savateev Aleksandr , Antonietti Markus , Vilé Gianvito
Published: April 2021

Because of their peculiar nitrogen-rich structure, carbon nitrides are convenient polydentate ligands for designing single-atom-dispersed photocatalysts. However, the relation of catalysts textural properties with their photophysical properties and as a result activity in photocatalytic applications is rarely elaborated. Herein we report the preparation and characterization of a series of single-atom heterogeneous catalysts featuring highly-dispersed Ag and Cu species on mesoporous graphitic C3N4. We show that adjustment of materials textural properties and thereby metal single atoms coordination mode enables ligand-to-metal (LMCT) or ligand-to-metal-to-ligand charge transfer (LMLCT), a property tha was long speculated in single-atom catalysis but never observed. We employ the developed materials in the degradation of organic pollutant under irradiation with visible light. Kinetic investigations under flow conditions show that single atoms of Ag and Cu decrease the amount of toxic organic fragmentation products, while leading to a higher selectivity towards full calcination. The results correlate with the selected mode of charge transfer in the designed photocatalysts and provide a new understanding of the surface state of single-atom catalysts. The concepts can be exploited further to rationally design and optimize other single-atom materials.
Automated Construction of Neural Network Potential Energy Surface: The Enhanced Self-Organizing Incremental Neural Network Deep Potential Method
Authors: Xu Mingyuan , Zhu Tong , Zhang John ZH
Published: April 2021

In recent years, the use of deep learning (neural network) potential energy surface (NNPES) in molecular dynamics simulation has experienced explosive growth as it can be as accurate as quantum chemistry methods while being as efficient as classical mechanic methods. However, the development of NNPES is highly non-trivial. In particular, it has been troubling to construct a dataset that is as small as possible yet can cover the target chemical space. In this work, an ESOINN-DP method is developed, which has the enhanced self-organizing incremental neural-network (ESOINN) and a newly proposed error indicator at its core. With ESOINN-DP, One can construct the NNPES with little human intervention, and this method ensures that the constructed reference dataset covers the target chemical space with minimum redundancy. The performance of the ESOINN-DP method has been well validated by developing neural network potential energy surfaces for water clusters and by de-redundancy of a sub-data set of the ANI-1 database. We believe that the ESOINN-DP method provides a novelty idea for the construction of NNPES and especially, the reference datasets, and it can be used for MD simulations of various gas-phase and condensed-phase chemical systems.
Active Machine Learning for Chemical Dynamics Simulations. I. Estimating the Energy Gradient
Authors: Fujioka Kazuumi , Luo Yuheng , Sun Rui
Published: April 2021

Ab initio molecular dymamics (AIMD) simulation studies are a direct way to visualize chemical reactions and help elucidate non-statistical dynamics that does not follow the intrinsic reaction coordinate. However, due to the enormous amount of the ab initio energy gradient calculations needed for AIMD, it has been largely restrained to limited sampling and low level of theory (i.e., density functional theory with small basis sets). To overcome this issue, a number of machine learning (ML) methods have been employed to predict the energy gradient of the system of interest. In this manuscript, we outline the theoretical foundations of a novel ML method which trains from a varying set of atomic positions and their energy gradients, called interpolating moving ridge regression (IMRR), and directly predicts the energy gradient of a new set of atomic positions. Several key theoretical findings are presented regarding the inputs used to train IMRR and the predicted energy gradient. A hyperparameter used to guide IMRR is rigorously examined as well. The method is then applied to three bimolecular reactions studied with AIMD, including HBr+ + CO2, H2S + CH, and C4H2 + CH, to demonstrate IMRR’s performance on different chemical systems of different sizes. This manuscript also compares the computational cost of the energy gradient calculation with IMRR vs. ab initio, and the results highlight IMRR as a viable option to greatly increase the efficiency of AIMD.
Loss of response and frequency of adverse events in patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease when switching from the original infliximab to its biosimilars
Authors: Knyazev O. V. , Zvyaglova M. Yu. , Kagramanova A. V. , Li I. A. , Sabelnikova E. A. , Lishchinskaya A. A. , Kulakov D. S. , Parfenov A. I.
Published: April 2021

Aim. To define the frequency of adverse events and loss of the response in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohns disease (CD), treated with original medicine infliximab (IFX) Remicaide and its biosimilars. Materials and methods. We included 154 patients with IBD: 78 UC patients (50.6%) и 76 CD patients (49.4%), treated with original medicine IFX Remicade and its biosimilars. In our study we did not include patients, who previously underwent induction treatment with IFX and its biosimilar. Results. Among 78 UC patients, IFX was cancelled in 25 (32.0%) patients and they were switched to the other anti-TNF inhibitor or medicine with the another mechanism of action; in patients group, treated with biosimilar 16 (20.5%) and 9 (11.5%) patients, who were interchanged biosimilar and/or original IFX. Among 76 CD patients IFX was cancelled in 20 (26.3%) patients: 11 (14.5%) patients in group, treated with similar trade name biosimilar, 8 (10.5%) patients, who were interchanged biosimilar and/or original IFX and 1 patient (1,3%), receiving original IFX. We found no difference in the secondary loss of response and adverse events in patients with CD and UC, switched from original IFX to biosimilar (p=0.6257 and p=0.6635, correspondingly). The frequency of the secondary loss of response or adverse events in patients with UC and CD, switched from original IFX to IFX biosimilar, was similar (p0.05). Conclusion. Approximately 30% of IBD patients, receiving IFX biosimilar, will be switched to the other anti-TNF therapy or medicine with the another mechanism of action because of secondary loss of response or adverse events.
Biliary sludge: pathogenesis, etiology and drug therapy
Authors: Bakulin I. G. , Avalueva E. B. , Serkova M. U. , Skvortsova T. E. , Seliverstov P. V. , Shevyakov M. A. , Sitkin S. I.
Published: April 2021

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of the use of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) for the treatment of biliary sludge (BS) and to compare the therapeutic effectiveness of the German substance UDCA and generic drugs from other manufacturers. Materials and methods. The study involved 65 patients diagnosed with BS (K80.8). To assess the severity of BS, ultrasound of the gallbladder was performed before treatment, after 1, 3, 6 months during therapy, as well as an assessment of its contractility. All patients were randomized into 2 groups. Patients of the main group received UDCA Ursofalk (Germany) at a dose of 10 mg/kg for at least 6 months. Patients in the comparison group received UDCA (another manufacturer) at a dose of 10 mg/kg for at least 6 months. Results. After 3 months of follow-up, the number of patients with dissolved sludge in the main group was 87.1%, while in the comparison group 50%. In 71% of patients, the normalization of the lean volume of the gallbladder was noted, and in the comparison group only in 47.1%. After 6 months of follow-up, complete resolution of BS in the main group was observed in 93.5% of cases, and in the comparison group in 73.6% of cases. Conclusion. As a result of the study, the high effectiveness of Ursofalk during oral litolysis in patients with stage I GI (BS) in the first 3 months of therapy, as well as the normalization of the contractile function of the gallbladder, were noted.
Semelfactivity in Igbo
Authors:   University of Nigeria, Nigeria, Christian Aboh Sopuruchi , Jennifer Onuorah Amarachi ,   University of Nigeria, Nigeria
Published: April 2021

This paper examines semelfactivity in the Igbo language. It seeks to highlight semelfactive verbs and other semelfactive sentential elements. The data for the study were obtained through introspection which were confirmed by two native speakers of Igbo and were analysed descriptively. From the study, it was discovered that the semelfactive verbs in Igbo that co-occur with bound verb complements for emphasis are takwu ‘whisper’, lo ‘swallow’, nwụ ‘die’ and hụpe ‘glimpse’ whereas kọ ‘scratch’, tabi ‘blink’, ze ‘sneeze’, kụ ‘knock’, ti ‘shout’, wuli ‘jump’ (wu ‘jump’. -li ‘upward’ as opposed to wuda ‘jump downwards)’, gba ‘kick’, nyụ ‘fart’ and kwa ‘cough’ that take inherent complement verbs. The research also revealed that na mberede ‘suddenly’ and na ntabi anya ‘in a twinkle of an eye’ are semelfactive adverbials in the Igbo language. Based on the findings, the paper concludes that in Igbo, semelfactivity entails a one-time action and a spontaneous or instantaneous action.
Variation in Onko Dialect of Yoruba
Authors:   University of Ilorin, Nigeria, Fakuade Gbenga , Tope Aminat Lawal ,   University of Ilorin, Nigeria, Rafiu Adewale ,   University of Ilorin, Nigeria
Published: April 2021

This paper examined variation in Onko dialect using the family tree model and the corresponding comparative method as the theoretical tool. A wordlist of basic items and a designed frame technique were used to gather data for this study. The data were presented in tables and the analyses were done through descriptive statistics. The data were analyzed to determine variation at the phonological, syntactic and lexical levels. The study revealed differences between Standard Yoruba and Onko dialect as well as the variation therein. Two basic factors discovered to be responsible for variations in Onko are geography (distribution of Onko communities) and language contact. The paper established that Onko exhibits variations, which are however not significant enough to disrupt mutual intelligibility among the speakers, and thus all the varieties remain a single dialect.
Crosslinguistic Influence of the First Language: Interlingual errors in the writing of ESL Saudi learners
Authors:   University of Bisha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Ali Ahmed Qasem Fawaz
Published: April 2021

Writing as a productive skill is challenging for the learners as it requires rich linguistic and cognitive abilities to match words with ideas well. A learner of any language as Second Language (SL), for example English, Arabic, Chinese, or German, enters an early, natural, and inevitable stage of making various errors in writing compositions. The errors could be due to dissimilar linguistic systems of the two languages (L1 and L2) or the lack of understanding the SL linguistic rules. This study focuses on investigating the frequent and common inter-lingual errors (the negative influence) committed by Arabic-speaking learners of English as Second Language (ESL). The study is based on Error Analysis (EA) of the essays of a group of English major undergraduate students from the University of Bisha, Al-Namas, Saudi Arabia. Contrastive Analysis Hypothesis (CAH) is included to predict most of the errors in the collected samples. The findings of the study show that common errors in the data are interlingual (54.03%). The errors within the Grammatical Category include the misuse of tenses, dropping the subjects, dropping verb to be-copular and word order misplacement. The majority of errors in the study are due to the interference of L1 linguistic system including the different orthographic, phonological, morpho-syntactic components. For instance, the participants’ dropping subjects in English can be attributed to the fact that Arabic as L1 and as Null Subject Language (NSL), unlike English, allows subject drop. The results also find that within the Lexical Category, preposition and article errors are the most frequent errors and that spelling errors are the most dominant errors within the Mechanics Category. The study gives some pedagogical implications and suggestions to avoid and minimize the interlingual errors of such type. For instance, teachers need to focus more on enlightening their students about the contrastive language systems from the early stage of learning ESL.
EDUCATIONAL LEADERS’ VIEWS ABOUT SCHOOL CULTURE, CLIMATE, LEADERSHIP, AND SUCCESS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF NEW ZEALAND, FINLAND, AND GHANA
Authors: Baafi Darko
Published: April 2021

This comparative project explored educational leaders’ views, practices, and experiences in relation to school culture, climate, leadership, and student success in three international contexts: New Zealand, Finland, and Ghana. Taking an interpretive methodological stance, the study used policy documents, observations, artefacts, and interviews as data sources. A total of twenty-seven participants (school leaders, university experts, and Ministry officials) took part; nine from each of the three countries.

Key insights from the study include identifying positive aspects from each of the three countries. Generally, each of the cases showed positive relationships between students’ success and teacher-teacher, teacher-students, teacher-principal, shared leadership, teamwork, school-based guidance and counselling, and more. Specifically, for New Zealand, positive impetus for students’ success included, respect for teaching, use of local curriculum, a clear and relevant Education Act, and free tuition. For Finland, the positive variables included respect for teaching, local-based curriculum, school-based psychologists, and free tuition and school meals. For Ghana, these included school-based Christian Chaplains and Imams, a free boarding system which included tuition and meals, and a relevant quota system to encourage minority inclusion in education.

While partially confirming the relevant literature on effective school leadership and students’ success, the study argues for a deeper understanding of the subject to include issues of global socio-cultural, socio-political, and socio-economic undercurrents and trends; symbolic capital; and hierarchical decision-making models’.

It is these sociological variables, forms and relationships, and dimensions of a complex education subsystem which act as catalysts for the daily practices of school leadership that influence students’ success.

The study offers (a) a theoretical framework for analysing school leadership and students’ success and (b) key recommendations for Ministries of Education and school administration and leaders.
Public health emergency and crisis management: Case study of SARS-CoV-2 outbreak
Authors: Choi H , Cho Wonhyuk , Kim MH , Hur JY
Published: April 2021

© 2020 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has caused an unparalleled public health crisis, delivering an immense shock to humanity. With the virus’s health consequences largely unknown, different health systems around the globe have pursued various avenues of crisis management. South Korea, troubled early by the virus, was once the second most affected nation in the world. Arrays of measures in South Korea, such as large-scale diagnostic testing and technology-based comprehensive contact tracing, have brought about debates among public health experts and medical professionals. This case study describes the major cluster transmissions in SARS-CoV-2 hotspots in South Korea (such as a religious sect, a call center, logistics facilities, and nightclubs) and offers early observations on how South Korean public health authorities acted in response to the initial outbreak of the virus and to the new waves prompted by re-opening economies. We then discuss the way in which South Korea’s experience can act as a reference for shaping other countries’ public health strategies in pandemic crisis management.
Assessing the South Korean Model of Emergency Management during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kim MH , Cho Wonhyuk , Choi H , Hur JY
Published: April 2021

© 2020, © 2020 Asian Studies Association of Australia. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented global public health crisis, and governments have implemented various responses with varying degrees of effectiveness. South Korea’s approach, which has involved minimal lockdown in order to “flatten the curve”, and which offers an alternative for many democracies, has attracted much attention. Based on in-depth interviews with public health professionals and policy advisors in government agencies, this article analyses how well South Korea’s response to COVID-19 complies with the expectations of good governance, and assesses the strengths and challenges of the Korean model. Our analysis shows that South Korea has been reactive rather than preventive/passive amid waves of clusters such as outbreaks in nightclubs, e-commerce warehouses, schools, hospitals and religious gatherings. The government has used a range of countermeasures, including contact tracing, diagnostic testing, media briefings and text alerts. At the same time, the challenges for the Korean approach have been concerns about privacy, fatigue over emergency alerts and politicisation.
Cross-Sector Partnership in New Zealand Local Government: A Case of Affordable Housing Policy for Older People in Auckland
Authors: Kim Daewook , Cho Wonhyuk
Published: April 2021

No description supplied
Addressing police corruption in Southeast Asia: Politics, participation, and public management reform
Authors: Ngich LM , Cho Wonhyuk
Published: April 2021

© 2020 National Research University Higher School of Economics. All rights reserved. As people’s interests and concerns on public safety have risen in Southeast Asia, academia has witnessed the growth of public management research on police corruption in the region. Little effort has been made to systematically analyse police corruption studies in Southeast Asia, therefore, we investigate what has been researched on police corruption in Southeast Asia in the field of public management. We present what research focuses there have been regarding anti-corruption measures and how they have changed over the last two decades, and then we offer suggestions for future research on this topic. Our analysis shows that political will was the most studied strategy in managing police corruption in the region, while anti-corruption agencies, police institutional reform and public participation have also been emphasized over time. Each Southeast Asian country places different emphases on these themes depending on the country’s unique context and experiences.
Macroscopic and microscopic analysis of friction stir welding ofpolyethylene
Authors:   University of Pitesti, IORDACHE Daniela-Monica , NITU Eduard-Laurenţiu , BOTILA Lia ,   National Institute for Welding and Material Testing ISIM, Timişoara
Published: April 2021

The automotiveindustry is one of the most dynamic, advanced and innovative industries in Europe, being in constant search of solutions to reduce fuel consumption and pollutant emissions while maintaining or even improving the safety of passengers. One of the main directions in which the research of all car manufacturers is focused to reduce the weight of the car, through the increasing use of light metal alloys and polymeric materials. Polyethylene is one of the most widely used polymeric materials in the world, being widespread in many industries.The increasing use of this category of materials has led to the need to develop new reliable and efficient techniques for joining different materials to be used in complex structures. In the aeronautical and aerospace field, polymeric materials are used due to their low weight. The paper presents the macroscopic and microscopic analysis of the joining of these materials by FSW.
Numerical simulation of the orthogonal cutting, using the finite element method
Authors:   University of Pitesti, MALEA Claudiu Ionut , BADULESCU Claudiu ,   The Research InstituteDupuy de Lôme, UBS-UBO-ENSTA Bretagne-ENIB, UMR CNRS 6027, 2,François VernyStreet, 29806 Brest Cedex 9,France
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this article is to create a simulation model for an orthogonal cutting process, using Abaqus which is a finite element analysis software. Thus, a two-dimensional model is defined, describing the shape of the semi-finished product and the cutting toolused, as well as the material parameters needed to be correctly defined and validated. The Johnson-Cook material model anddegradation model, the modelof friction coefficient are defined, as well as the obtaining of test parameters by a shear testto obtain useful parameters. The results are focused on the study of the forces that appear during the process of removing the metallic material.
Overview on the Use of Natural Gas in Spark Ignition Engines
Authors:   University of Pitesti, POPA Robert Marian , NICULESCU Rodica , CLENCI Adrian , IORGA SIMAN Victor
Published: April 2021

As air pollution and global warming become a priority in sustainable mobility, the evolution of vehicles is facing many regulations that are becoming increasingly stringent in terms of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, forcing the automotive industry to search for solutions to make their products more environmentally friendly. In this environmental and legislative context, considerable attention has been given to natural gas (NG) in spark ignition (SI) engines. Many studies have been conducted to assess the impacts of NG use on engine operation.This overview paper discusses some aspects of recent studies on Natural Gas(NG)production, its physico-chemical properties, and also, on the influence of the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) in SI engines: combustion characteristics, performance, and emissions.
Overview on the Cylinder Deactivationtechniques
Authors:   University of Pitesti, DRAGHICU Marcel Alexandru , IORGA SIMAN Victor , CLENCI Adrian , NICULESCU Rodica , IVAN Florian
Published: April 2021

"Temporary downsizing" in the form of deactivation of the cylinders is used as an attractive compromise, as it allows to improvefuel consumptionandat the same time it allows sufficient power reserve to meet the requirements of the driver, maintaining driving pleasure as well as comfort regarding noise and vibration levels.The paper aims topresent an overview on the cylinder deactivation techniques focusing on the stakes and challenges related with their implementation.
A reflexão crítica como elemento potencializador do processo de aprender a ensinar
Authors: Wyzykowski Tamini , Frison Marli Dallagnol
Published: April 2021

Neste artigo socializamos reflexões acerca das contribuições da Formação Inicial no processo constitutivo de professores de Ciências Biológicas, que podem servir de instrumentos para a produção e transformação de ideários ou concepções do ser professor. A pergunta que orienta o desenvolvimento deste texto é: Que elementos da Formação Inicial se mostram potencialmente capazes de produzir e transformar concepções e modelos de ser professor apreendidos durante a vida? A investigação foi desenvolvida a partir de um Estudo de Caso na abordagem qualitativa de pesquisa em Educação, na qual participaram 17 licenciandos e 3 professores formadores de Ciências Biológicas. Os dados foram construídos desde narrativas de formação, questionário e entrevistas semiestruturadas, organizados pelo viés da Análise Textual Discursiva (ATD). Durante a análise emergiram duas categorias: (I) reflexão formativa e (II) professor formador. Os resultados indiciam que os licenciandos ingressam no Ensino Superior com concepções e modelos de docência resultantes do percurso histórico-cultural formativo vivenciado. A Formação Inicial implica constituição dos futuros professores e, para tanto, a reflexão formativa crítica e o professor formador têm papel essencial durante essa etapa formativa.
Uma revisão bibliográfica sobre o uso de software de análise de dados: um olhar para o Octave
Authors: Pastorio Dioni Paulo , Alves Josemar , Fragoso Tainá Almeida
Published: April 2021

Esta revisão bibliográfica tem por objetivo investigar como o software, de código aberto e livre distribuição, GNU Octave vem sendo utilizado como recurso didático-pedagógico nos âmbitos da Educação Básica e do Ensino Superior. Justifica-se a escolha do Octave por ele ser um software livre — característica que torna seu uso viável em diferentes instituições de ensino sem a necessidade do emprego de recursos financeiros adicionais —, bem como por ele ser uma ferramenta computacional compatível com diversos sistemas operacionais. Para tanto, fez-se a análise de publicações nacionais e internacionais, na área do ensino de ciências, buscando responder a questões que possibilitassem reconhecer o estado da arte acerca do uso do Octave no ensino de matemática e física. São exemplos de tais questões: (i) qual a natureza desses trabalhos; (ii) a que níveis de ensino estão relacionados; e (iii) quais os conteúdos abordados. Para o levantamento dos dados, selecionou-se revistas de classificação Qualis Capes A1, A2 e B1 durante todo o período de publicação de cada um dos periódicos considerados. Dez publicações, que incluíam trabalhos teóricos, propostas didáticas e práticas desenvolvidas, foram selecionadas e analisadas. Os principais resultados obtidos indicam: compreensões acerca do uso de um software de livre distribuição para práticas de ensino-aprendizagem; necessidade de integração desse tipo de ferramenta nas atividades didáticas; e relações com a formação de professores nessas práticas pedagógicas.
Relationships between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Evlampieva L. G. , Yaroslavskaya E. I. , Kharats V. E.
Published: April 2021

The review analyzes data from domestic and foreign sources focusing on the current state of a common problem of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The article describes the main mechanisms of development and the possible relationships between the cardiovascular diseases, main risk factors in patients, and the sleep-related breathing disorder symptom-complex. The article provides the status update on the problem of continuous positive  airway pressure (CPAP) therapy consisting in creating positive airway pressure ventilation and provides rationale for studying its effects on cardiovascular risk factors in various subgroups of comorbid patients.
Delirium is one of the many faces of COVID-19. Literature review
Authors: Bagdonaitė A. , Tumas D. , Griškevičiūtė E. , Svirskytė A.
Published: April 2021

Taking into account today’s context of COVID-19 disease, it is very important to acknowledge the serious psychiatric complications that arise during the acute phase of the disease, as well as those that have a delayed onset and are no less dangerous. COVID-19 is most commonly associated with cough, shortness of breath, and fever; however, changes in consciousness can also occur, especially in elderly patients with severely advanced dis- ease. COVID-19 recovered patients often experience symptomatic mental disorders. The purpose of this article is to review the recent literature on COVID-19 induced delirium, its epidemiology, pathophysiological mechanisms, prevention, diagnostic and treatment options. The expectation is that this would help maintain clinical vigilance of healthcare professionals working during the global pandemic. Mention should also be made of the delayed-onset symptomatic psychiatric disorders that occur after recovery from COVID-19 disease, which are also important to recognize and treat in a timely manner, as they impair patients’ quality of life and the course of rehabilitation.
Hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies: a case series report
Authors: Naudžiūnaitė S. , Bunevičiūtė R. , Burnytė B.
Published: April 2021

Hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP) is an autosomal dominant inherited peripheral nerve disorder characterized by recurrent, episodic local reversible peripheral nerve compression neuropathy that occurs spontaneously or after minor trauma.We describe demographic, clinical, and electrophysiological data of seven patients from six families (ages 17 to 74 years) diagnosed with HNPP. All patients had a genetically proven diagnosis of a deletion at 17p12 locus, which contains PMP22 gene. In five patients (71.4%), the first symptoms of HNPP (hypoesthesia, numbness, episodes of pain, and weakness) started in the second or third decade of life. One asymptomatic patient was diagnosed with HNPP based on a positive family history. Three patients (42.9%) reported that symptoms were caused by direct mechanical compression of the nerve. Three patients (42.9%) were found to have atrophy of the legs (calves or feet), hammer deformities of the toes, and pes cavus. Foot drop was observed in four patients (57.1%). In five patients, electroneurography showed signs of demyelinating type, in one – mixed (predominantly axonal).This study highlights the diversity of the clinical course of HNPP and the importance of early diagnosis including electrophysiological studies and genetic testing of copy number variation at 17p12 locus, which can prevent clinical manifestations of the disease and/or complications.
Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan: doctrine and practice (to the 25th anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan)
Authors: Ayupova Zaure , Karaev Alipasha , Mataeva Maygul' , Nechkin Andrey , Ostapovich Igor'
Published: April 2021

This collective monograph is dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan. It conducts a comprehensive study. The Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which mainly considers the historical and theoretical and legal aspects of the development of the Basic Law of the country, as well as its practical component. In addition, special attention is paid to the comparison of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan with the constitutions of other post-Soviet states. The publication is intended for undergraduate and graduate students, postgraduates and teachers of higher educational institutions, as well as anyone interested in foreign constitutional law.
YIELD RESPONSES OF WATERMELON (CITRULLUS LUNATUS (THUMB) IN A COASTAL PLAIN SOIL UNDER VARIABLE FERTILIZER RATES AND IRRIGATION REGIME IN A DRY SEASON PRODUCTION CYCLE
Authors: EGBUCHUA Collins , ENUJEKE Emmanuel Chukudinife
Published: April 2021

Field experiments were conducted during 2017 and 2018 cropping seasons at Illah, Delta North ecological zone of Nigeria to investigate the appropriate rates of NPK fertilizer and irrigation intervals in relation to yield response of water melon (Citrullus lunatus). The site had sandy loam texture, low in organic carbon (0.38%), low in total nitrogen (0.064%), available phosphorus (6.83 mgkg-1) and cation exchange capacity (6.74 cmolkg-1). The fertilizer rates were (0:0:0), (50:25:25), (80:40:40), and (120:60:60) KgN, P2O5 and K2O/ha and irrigation regimes of 6:12:18 days. It was a factorial experiment laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replicates. Results indicated that increase in fertilizer rates from 0:0:0 to 80:40:40 kg/ha significantly increased growth and fruit yield. Further increase to 120:60:60 kg/ha depressed yield. Increase irrigation intervals from 6 -12 days also influenced significantly growth and fruit yield and further increase to 18 days intervals affected negatively the parameters. Interaction effects between fertilizer x irrigation intervals were not significant. Correlation analysis showed that the growth and yield characters were significant and positively correlated with fruit yield. Results indicated that fertilizer rates and 12 days irrigation interval were adequate and recommended for increased production of watermelon in the study area.
Tolaki Tribe's Marriage: The Struggle of Islamic Law and Customary Law
Authors: Ipandang Ipandang , Yuliyanti Ai Yeni
Published: April 2021

This study aims to understand the history and struggles of Islamic law and Tolaki culture in the munakahat fiqh, inherited from the Tolaki community as contained in the Tolaki customary law structure. This study uses a qualitative descriptive method and a phenomenological approach. This research shows that the struggle of Islamic law and marriage culture in the Tolaki community is that the relationship between Islam and Tolaki culture shows adaptation, mutual understanding, and conversation. This relationship means no dominant or mutually dominant camps in this cycle of marriage, Islam, and traditions. Thus, there is a need for the role of traditional leaders, religious leaders, community leaders, and the government to socialize intensely the importance of cultural values in society, nation, and state to preserve existing culture for the continuity of future generations in various activities.Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memahami sejarah dan pergumulan tentang hukum Islam dan budaya Tolaki dalam fikih munakahat yang diwariskan kepada masyarakat Tolaki yang terdapat dalam struktur hukum adat Tolaki. Dengan menggunakan metode deskriptif kualitatif dan pendekatan fenomenologi, Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pergumulan hukum islam dan budaya perkawinan pada masyarakat Tolaki adalah hubungan antara Islam dan budaya Tolaki menunjukkan adaptasi, saling pengertian dan percakapan satu sama lain. Artinya, tidak ada kubu yang dominan atau yang saling dominan dalam siklus pernikahan, Islam, dan tradisi ini. Untuk itulah perlunya peranan tokoh adat, tokoh agama, tokoh masyarakat maupun pemerintah secara intens dan berkelanjutan dilaksanakan berbagai kegiatan yang mensosialisasikan pentingnya nilai-nilai budaya dalam kehidupan bermasyarakat, berbangsa dan bernegara guna melestarikan budaya yang sudah ada demi kelangsungan generasi mendatang.
DEVELOPING THE APPROACH OF E-SERVICES PROVIDING IN TERMS OF DECENTRALIZATION REFORM IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION SYSTEM OF UKRAINE
Authors: Andriienko Anton , Matveieva Olga
Published: April 2021

The purpose of the paper is to describe the approach of e-services providing in Ukraine in terms of decentralization reform. Methodology. We suggest describing the approach of e-services providing. According to the subject of description, methodology could be classified in groups presented below: description of the background (part 3), which reveals the need for digital education; analysis of digital transformation in public administration decentralization reform (part 4); strategic analysis of the vision for public e-services providing (part 5); generalization of the approaches (part 6). The development of the method of descriptive analyses has been based on several sources, namely: studies of the case of public e-services providing in Ukraine; analyses of extant literature on public e-services and their development. Results. Developing innovative and flexible public e-services in Ukraine, capable for adapting to the citizens’ current needs, has become crucial for public administrations. Progress in e-Government tools implementation continues in Ukraine in terms of decentralization reform. The e-Government concept puts into practice as the ambition of Ukrainian decentralized government to use information and communication technology (ICT) to provide more efficient public e-services for citizens. The relationship between citizens and the local government is crucial and it is mediated through modeling the process of e-services developing and deeper understanding current citizens’ needs by governmental officials. Practical implications. Our research aims at developing bases for strategic vision on public e-services in Ukraine as a framework that lays the foundations enabling a public administration to build flexible and innovative system of e-services, by relying on four bases (openness, participation, collaboration and integration). Value/originality. Revealing the current stage of decentralization reform of Ukraine enable to provide a case study of the organizational, institutional and social capacities for digitalization of e-services and form a strategic vision for their systemic development.
Does Human Capital Play an Important Role in Farm Size Growth? The Case of Slovenia
Authors:   Stefan Bojnec, Imre Fertő
Published: April 2021

The paper investigates the drivers of farm size and farm size growth in Slovenia during the period 2007-2017 using a farm-level Farm Accountancy Data Network dataset within a quantile regression framework. Farm size growth is measured by growth in utilized agricultural area per farm. The findings suggest that growth in farm land size is driven by initial farm land size and policy subsidy support. Contrary to expectations, human capital does not play an important role in either farm land size or farm land size growth according to quantile regressions. These findings from inter-quantile comparative analysis are important for farm-related structural and rural development policy.
FARMERS' PERCEPTION REGARDING CLIMATE CHANGE IN SOUTHERN TURKEY: THE CASE OF MERSIN PROVINCE
Authors:   Seyit HAYRAN, Sinan DURU, Burcak KAPUR, Aykut GUL, Yavuz Sahin TURGUT
Published: April 2021

Climate change is responsible for the negative effects in human life causing a decrease in agricultural products, biodiversity, soil fertility, and forest areas. In contrast, climate change increases plant diseases and pests, the cost of agricultural production and risk in food security. This study aims to determine whether climate change is a phenomenon via the analysis of the perceptions of the farmers in the Mersin province conducted over 251 questionnaires. Farmers primarily perceive climate change over production costs and the reduction in yield. Moreover, they are highly aware of its relation to natural events such as floods, drought, and storms. Nevertheless, inappropriate agricultural practices also lead to the negative consequences caused by climate change. In this respect, this study revealed that farmers with high cooperative partnerships and experience perceived climate change significantly.
Using threshold co-integration to estimate asymmetric price transmission in the Turkish milk market
Authors:   Berna Tuncay, Ozgur Bor
Published: April 2021

We investigate the price dynamics between retail milk price and raw milk price in the Turkish fluid milk market. The study uses monthly fluid milk prices for 14 years between January 2003 and December 2016. We analyze the price adjustment in the fluid milk market through an asymmetric error correction model with threshold co-integration. We find that the transmission between the two prices has been asymmetric in both the long term and short term period. Differences between the farm milk prices and retail milk prices may exist due to marketing costs across the supply chain and pricing policies associated with the market structure. Results of the long-run analysis indicate a significant market power in the fluid milk market. Therefore, in this asymmetric case, the deviations are likely to be the reason for the market power of the processors/retailers and the reason for the oligopolistic market structure in the sector.
Code-Switching Between Lingua Francas
The Case of a Plurilingual Facebook Group
Authors: Bienati Arianna , Borghetti Claudia
Published: April 2021

This article reports on English-Italian code-switching in a Facebook group of university students. The aim of the study is to describe the students’ interactional practices and their alternate use of English and Italian as lingua francas. 773 posts and comments written by 81 members of the group were analysed in a pragmatic and conversational perspective. The study shows that code-switching was ruled by precise norms of interaction and served to manage participant constellations. It also facilitated mutual understanding among students with different degree of language competence, and contributed to the creation of the plurilingual ‘small culture’ of the group.