bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An XAFS Study on the Electronic Structure Study of the Boron Substituted CuFeO2
Authors: OZKENDİR Osman Murat
Published: May 2021

CuFeO2 is a well known antiferromagnetic material due to its geometrically frustrated antiferromagnetic (AFM) [TN=11K] character. Besides, delafossite CuFeO2oxide crystal is known to be under the influence of oxygen nonstoichiometry as a result of the change in cation valence bands. In this study, boron atoms were substituted in the Fe coordination and the electronic response on irons valence band is probed. Also, the possible influence of boron substitution on the electrical properties via the photoelectrons’ mean free path is investigated. Due to the high difference in the ionic radii of the host and substituted atoms, different crystal structure formation was expected. However, calculations showed that boron atoms tend to locate in Fe coordination and preferred to be part of the host crystal by bonding with the oxygen atoms. In addition, the presence of the light boron atoms was determined to weaken the scattering intensities which cause a longer mean free path for the photoelectrons which means better conductivity of the material.
Buckling Analysis of Rectangular Beams Having Ceramic Liners at Its Top and Bottom Surfaces with the help of the Exact Transfer Matrix
Authors: YILDIRIM Vebil
Published: May 2021

In this study the elastic buckling behavior of beams with rectangular cross section is studied analytically. It is assumed that both the top and bottom surfaces of the beam are ceramic coated. The aluminum (Al) is chosen as a core material while the aluminum-oxide (Al2O3) is preferred as a liner (face) material. The transfer matrix method based on the Euler-Bernoulli beam theory is employed in the analysis. The exact transfer matrix in terms of equivalent bending stiffness is presented together with the exact buckling equations for hinged-hinged, clamped-hinged, clamped-free, and finally clamped-clamped boundary conditions. After verifying the results for beams without liners, dimensionless buckling loads of the beam with ceramic liners are numerically computed for each boundary condition. The effect of the thickness of the ceramic liner on the buckling loads is also investigated. It is found that a ceramic liner enhances noticeably the buckling loads. As an additional study those effects are also examined for the ratios of elasticity modulus of face material to core material in a wide range.
Reflection of Indian Culture in Shashi Deshpande’s A Matter of Time
Authors: Jena Prajesh
Published: May 2021

Shashi Deshpande is a well-known name in the field of Indian literature and is a contemporary writer from Karnataka. She portrays in her novel "A Matter of Time" the truth of Indian society in Indian families. The importance of culture for Indian women is also discussed. Her novels are distinguished for their genuine depictions of the Indians and their history. She used Indian names and the role of Indian Middle Class Women in her novel A Matter of Time through the character Sumi. She talks about Indian Women, Indian Culture, Indian Religion, Indian Family, Religions and Beliefs, Family Traditions, and Emotions, among other topics. A Matter of Time is a multi-generational novel that moves around the plight and predicament of Indian women whose lives are deeply rooted in Indian beliefs, superstitions, conventions and traditions.

Women have been living and breathing silently for thousands of years under the umbrella of patriarchy and with their "gazing." With the foundation of patriarchy, the disparity between man and woman, in its unwritten form, has developed through language, customs, rituals, myths and practises. Myths, rituals, and customs contribute to the evolution and establishment of human society. They are naturally developed, but are indeed societal buildings and help in developing patriarchal ideologies. They are believed to be natural. They are, therefore, essential to women's subjugation in our society.
Formation and development of digital skills in university education
Authors: Bondar Ihor , Komarnitskyi Igor , Rusavska Valentina , Batchenko Liudmila , Honchar Liliia
Published: May 2021

The aim is to develop a concept for implementing a systematic approach to the practice of forming and developing digital skills in higher education institutions. In this research, the methods of analysis and synthesis have been applied to integrate various approaches to the formation of digital skills into university education. Research results. Within the framework of a systematic approach to the formation and development of digital skills, consistent linking of the following approaches is suggested: standard-oriented, expert-oriented, student-oriented, problem-oriented. Integration of these approaches will ensure synergy in a changing technological environment. The main principles of a systematic approach are defined as processability, flexibility, and adaptability, problem orientation, timeliness, creativity. The scientific value of the research lies in the integration of various approaches that are practically used in university education to develop the concept of digital skills management.
Semantic of color in the poetics of Vladimir Mayakovsky
Authors: Goncharov Vitaly Viktorovich , Zheltukhina Marina R. , Slyshkin Gennady G. , Khachmafova Zaineta R. , Makerova Susanna R.
Published: May 2021

This article analyzes the use of color in the poetic works of Vladimir Mayakovsky as a symbolic actualization of the most important aspects of both the reality surrounding the poet and the world of his inner experienceshe authors note that the poet's choice of a particular color palette in his literary works is often determined by a number of objective and subjective factors: personal sensual love experiences, including complicated and fairly long relationships within the love triangle "Lilya Brik - Osip Brik - Vladimir Mayakovsky"; events of the early twentieth century, rapidly replacing each other, in which not only Russia, but the whole world were immersed (World War I, revolution, civil war in Russia, new economic policy, etc.). And, although the poet constantly mentions in his works about the rich color palette of the surrounding world, including thousands of colors, the authors of the article substantiate the position that in reality Vladimir Mayakovsky uses a rather limited number of colors and shades (the most popular with him are gold, red, black and white).
‘World Will Never Be Same’: Phraseologisms during Coronavirus Pandemic
Authors: Chernova O. E. , Osipova A. A. , Pozdnyakova N. V.
Published: May 2021

Issues related to the semantics, structure and functions of new super-word linguistic units that have come into active use during the coronavirus pandemic are considered. Particular attention is paid to the statistics of searching the Internet for a certain phrase for a month and specific digital indicators of its existence as a stable one. The novelty of the research is seen in the fact that identifies phraseologisms of the late XX — early XXI centuries, which need a full-fledged phraseographic description (origin, semantics, examples of use). Phrasemes are combined by the authors into thematic groups: 1) remote work and study, 2) administrative measures to combat coronavirus, 3) features of a new disease and its treatment. It is shown that in the texts of mass communication Phrasemes perform nominative, communicative and pragmatic functions. Investigating stable turnovers, the authors dwell upon their structure, which is represented by three models. It is noted that the result of the work will be a dictionary of phraseological neologisms, which, along with others, will include units that appeared during the coronavirus pandemic.
Medical Prescription Formula: Structural and Linguistic Standardization
Authors: Vasilyeva O. Yu.
Published: May 2021

The traditions of medical prescription design, motivated by the universal-semiotic meaning of Latin as a pharmaceutical metalanguage is examined in the article. The author dwells on the interpretation of the methods of prescribing and linguistic representation of different types of drugs: mixtures, powders, ointment-based drugs and drugs in tablet form. The standardization of text-forming parameters of a medical prescription has been established, which are determined both by its compositional-structural organization and linguistic formula. A comparative characteristic of constant linguistic units (lexical, morphological, syntactic), fixed in ancient prescription recipes and fixed in medical prescriptions of modern times, is offered. The lexico-semantic composition of a medical prescription is determined by a set of stable expressions that have received a formulaic representation to express the methods of administration, control the dosage of a medicinal product, and the mandatory nature of a medical prescription. The dominant methods of verbal-predicative and case-fixed word usage, which are basic for the grammar of the Latin language, are described. The clichéd syntactic constructions still preserved in modern medical prescriptions, which have a specific deictic function, addressed by the doctor to both the pharmacist and the patient (imperative, conjunctive), have been identified. In the final postulates, the author’s functionally conditioned typology of means of expressing linguistic formulaality is presented.
Scythian View of Russian Revolution: Aspects of Axiology
Authors: Solntseva N. M. , Solntseva E. G.
Published: May 2021

The perception of the revolution by the majority of members of the Scythian group (1916—1919) is examined in the article. The relevance of the topic is due to the fact that the views of the Scythians of the 1910s on the revolution correlate with their work, which is actively studied by modern researchers. It is shown that the priority for them was the projection of modernity on the mythologized and poeticized by them historical Scythians, the first was the question of the role of personal energy in opposition to social entropy. The article focuses on the actualization by the group members of the Scythian psychotype in the Russian revolution, on the premonition of their own death in its whirlwind, on the legacy of A. Herzen’s ideas by IvanovRazumnik. The attitude of the group members to the religious content of the revolutions of 1917 is analyzed, the skeptical view of Ivanov-Razumnik, E. Zamyatin, S. Yesenin, N. Klyuev on the Church is presented. The point of view of the spiritual Scythians who dreamed of democracy on the role of the people in the revolution and the future of the country is considered. The apprehensions of M. Prishvin, A. Blok, A. Bely for the fate of a culture threatened with destruction are outlined. It is concluded that there is no single revolutionary axiology in the group and only the relative influence of the ideas of Ivanov-Razumnik on its members.
2013 Political Discussions in Foreign Affairs Committee of British Parliament on Iranian Nuclear Issue
Authors: Kornilov A. A. , Lobanova N. S.
Published: May 2021

The debate on Iran’s nuclear program in the Foreign Affairs Committee of the British Parliament, held in February 2013, in anticipation of the resumption of negotiations between Iran and the “six” of international mediators, is considered. Particular attention is paid to the position of experts invited to the meeting: representatives of academia, public organizations, military analysts. The high expert and analytical level of the meeting, which made it possible to develop effective political initiatives is noted. The most pressing issues raised during the parliamentary debates are considered. It was proved that both the deputies and the invited experts considered the further development of Tehran’s nuclear program dangerous. The authors dwell in detail on theways to resolve the Iranian nuclear problem, recommended by experts at a committee meeting: from increasing sanctions pressure to finding ways of a diplomatic settlement. The relevance of the study is due to the fact that the Iranian nuclear problem continues to be a toxic factor in the Middle East region. The novelty of the study lies in the fact that the attempt is made to reveal the position of the British Parliament members and leading experts on Iranian foreign policy. It is concluded that the political position expressed by the deputies and experts in the parliament testified to the readiness of the parties to negotiate and develop a consensus on the Iranian nuclear program.
‘Gate’ Derivatives and Theory of Variable Interpretation of Reality4
Authors: Gurova I. V.
Published: May 2021

The article is devoted to the study of the intentional construction of new words by the addressee in order to manipulate the consciousness of the addressee of mass communication. The material of the research was the discursive implementations of derivatives with the -gate component in the meaning of ‛scandal’ from the Russian print and electronic media for the period from 1977 to 2020, collected by the author, as well as text fragments extracted from the National Corpus of the Russian. It is shown that in the metonymic conceptualization of the denotative situation of a scandal with the help of derivatives from the gate basis, the addressees of mass communication choose 5 areas-sources: “the object of the scandal”; “participant in the scandal”; “geographic localization of the scandal”; “occupation of the participants in the event”; “Participant in the scandal + occupation of the participants in the scandal”. The author makes a conclusion about the participation of derivatives with the -gate component in the organization of annihilating, fingering and modal transformations of statements, as well as in the implementation of the method of redesignating an object and imposing a presupposition. A correlation has been established between the areas-sources of metonymic conceptualization of the denotative situation of the scandal and the functions of derivatives with the -gate component. It was revealed that among the derivatives from the gate base participating in the implementation of the VIR (variable interpretation of reality) techniques, derivatives with the source region “participant in the scandal” prevail.
Main Directions of Environmental Policy of Greenland at Beginning of XXI Century
Authors: Solovieva V. A. , Tsverianashvili I. A. , Shutman D. V.
Published: May 2021

The individual directions of Greenland’s environmental policy, which have the greatest impact on the modern ecological situation in the autonomy, are considered. The authors of the work referred to these areas as energy, water resources, waste disposal and pollution control. A description of the development of the selected ecological directions is given, an analysis of their current state is carried out. Greenland’s environmental cooperation with Denmark and the European Union is also analyzed. The basis of the source study base of the article is the Greenlandic legislation in the field of ecology. The main documents, programs and cases that influenced the development of the selected environmental directions are considered. The relevance of this article lies in a detailed examination of the environmental policy of Greenland and the construction of general conclusions about the environmental situation of the Danish Autonomous Territory based on the results obtained in the analysis of individual environmental areas. The novelty of the study is seen in an integrated approach to the analysis of the ongoing environmental policy of Greenland. The main positive and negative results in the selected environmental areas are noted. An assumption is made about the ambiguity of the environmental policy of Greenland, and possible outcomes in the implementation of this policy are considered.
Higher School in Bashkir ASSR in 1950s— 1980s
Authors: Suleimanova R. N. , Isyangulov S. N.
Published: May 2021

The issue of the formation and development of the higher education system in the Bashkir ASSR in the 1950s—1980s is considered. The relevance of the study is due to the insufficient study ofthis problem in regional historiography. The novelty of the study lies in the fact that the article for the first time introduces into scientific circulation statistical information that was previously unused by researchers, characterizing the main areas of activity of universities in the republic. On the basis of published and archival sources, an increase in the number of students in full-time, part-time and evening departments of universities, admission, and release of qualified personnel by industry groups of educational institutions is shown in comparison with the all-Union indicators. The number of specialists graduated from universities in the period under review has been determined. The growth of scientific and scientific-pedagogical personnel, the peculiarities of the development of university science during this period are shown. It is concluded that in the 1950— 1980s. in Bashkiria, the formation and rapid development of the university system took place, in which more than half of the scientific potential of the republic was concentrated by the end of the period under study. It is indicated that, at the same time, its use in research work was extremely insufficient.
Soviet Power and System of Public Education in 1920s: Practice of Experiments in Conditions of Building New Statehood
Authors: Shchukin D. V. , Nekrylova O. G.
Published: May 2021

The state policy of the Soviet government in relation to the system of public education in the initial period of the formation of the Soviet state is considered. The relevance of the study is due to the content and organizational side of the transformations of the Soviet power in the field of public education in the 1920s, which is today of substantive interest for modern education from the applied standpoint of pedagogical practices and innovations in terms of their effectiveness and professional suitability. The authors focus on the general nature of managerial experiments that took place in the school system in the 1920s in the context of the general transformation of the country. A detailed analysis of the organizational foundations of the reform of the education system was carried out, the structure of educational institutions of the period under review was studied, its graphical diagram was built, an overview of the content and overview of school education was made. The novelty of the research lies in the presented subject analysis of the content of curricula and school programs of the 1920s, the construction of a consistent line of reforms in education implemented by the Soviet government in the context of their further effectiveness and historical results. Conclusions are made about the content side of these transformations within the framework of a complex of pedagogical ideas and new practices in education.
Simulation of a Power System Considering Active Power Losses and Seasons
Authors: Dulău Lucian-Ioan , Bică Dorin
Published: May 2021

In this paper is presented the simulation of a power system. The simulations performed are considering the seasons (spring, summer, autumn and winter). The system has 39 buses, 46 power lines, 13 generating units, 19 loads and 2 storage units. Of the 13 generating units, 3 are distributed generation sources based on renewable energy. There are also 2 battery storage units. The simulation considers the active power supplied by the generating and storage units, respectively the active power losses. The results give the power supplied by each generating unit for each season.
Satellite-Derived Bathymetry Using Landsat-8 Imagery for Safaga Coastal Zone, Egypt
Authors: Saeed Ramez , Abdelrahman Saad M. , Negm Abdelazim
Published: May 2021

Satellite-Derived Bathymetry (SDB) modeling is used to derive bathymetric data needed for enriching several applications including nautical charting. The nautical charts of Safaga port, Egypt, contains significant gaps as they are based on 50-years old hydrographic survey data and it needs an update. We applied the SDB algorithm (log-ratio approach) using multispectral Landsat-8 OLI images for extracting bathymetry to update the nautical charts of SAFAGA port. The results are verified against the old nautical chart of SAFAGA with a coefficient of determination (R2) varies between 0.42 to 0.71 in areas where hydrographic data are old, unavailable or costly to obtain.
A Simple PSO-Based Method for Power Distribution System Components Reliability Parameters Calibration
Authors: Shojaeian Shahrokh , Rizi Sajjad Hashemi
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a proposed algorithm based on Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is used to present a simple method for data calibration of reliability indices in electrical power distribution networks. The main feature of the proposed method is its comprehensiveness, since the whole reliability indices can be calibrated using a proper objective function. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the suggested algorithm, calculations are made on the well-known IEEE-RBTS Bus2 test system. The results confirm the simplicity and validation of the proposed method, and verify that by applying the proposed method, the computation speed for data calibration can be reduced as well.
Exploratory Factor Analysis for Identifying Comorbidities as Risk Factors Among Patients with Cied
Authors: Dobai Bernadett-Miriam , Iantovics Laszlo Barna , Paiu Andreea
Published: May 2021

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 affected care both for acute and chronic health conditions. Majority of the patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) have multiple comorbidities, which can influence their response to COVID-19. An online survey consisting of 45 multiple-choice question was designed for CIED patients assessing comorbidities and overall health condition during September -December 2020. A multivariate analysis based on principal axis factoring (PAF) was performed on the eligible 184 survey response. Three factors were identified. Ten-year survival rates were calculated with Charlson Comorbidity Index. The extracted factors explained 66.1% of the cumulative variance and were consistent with medical literature data.
Self-Efficacy of Physical and Health Education Student Teachers in the Quebec Context
Authors: Amamou Salem , Vandercleyen François , Desbiens Jean-François
Published: May 2021

Pre-service training is a critical period for establishing the beliefs of future teachers in their ability to successfully assume their responsibilities as teachers. One of the goals of teacher education programs would therefore be to cultivate a high sense of competence among students.

For this purpose, a scale to measure the perception of self-efficacy (PSE) among Quebec physical and health education trainees during teaching has been developed and empirically validated. Teacher trainees (n = 232) enrolled in 3rd and 4th year in the Bachelor of Education in Physical and Health Education (PHE) in four different university programs in Quebec participated in the study.

Subsequent exploratory and quasi-confirmatory factor analyses led to the development of an instrument with 19 items divided into three factors, explaining 66.10 % of the total variance. The convergent and divergent measures of validity are satisfactory, as are those of the reliability of the three scales (upper lower limit: .78 to .93). Finally, the RMSR, CFI, RMSEA and NNFI indices show an excellent goodness of fit of the model obtained.
A Descriptive Analysis of the Leadership Practices of Primary School Principals in Promoting Sustainability Through Motivating Teachers
Authors: Khumalo Shuti Steph
Published: May 2021

Enhancing sustainability in primary schools is apposite because primary schools are the building blocks in any education system. In its examination, the study provides insights on the role of primary school principals in promoting sustainable education through inspiring teachers. Teacher motivation is a very critical focus research area, particularly in the present depressing times and particularly in promoting sustainability. Without ignoring and dismissing other factors that have a bearing on the poor performance of the South African primary schools, teacher discouragement is one of the factors. The purpose of this investigation was to explore the extent in which the leadership practices of primary school principals promote teacher motivation and ultimately achieving sustainable teacher workforce. This study was based on random sampled primary school teachers in South Africa, Waterberg District. Hundred and fifty survey questionnaires were distributed to participating primary schools and only 96 responses were received. The respondents were from a mix of both male and female teachers who responded to the questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was applied to analyse data. Even though the results indicated that there were issues with teacher motivation, to a significant extent, the majority of respondents demonstrated that most primary principals do take efforts in trying to ensure that teachers are motivated. The results of the study deepen the already existing scope of knowledge regarding teacher motivation, particularly in primary schools.
Identifying Assessment Opportunities in Postgraduate Learning for Sustainability
Authors: Gajparia Jaya , Strachan Glenn , Vare Paul , Ferguson Therese
Published: May 2021

This paper offers a rationale for how ESD related learning at postgraduate level can be assessed. It proposes a framework for evaluating whether assessments in Master’s level programmes align with the pedagogical approach of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). If assessment is to contribute to the overall learning process, then the nature of the assessment should reflect the pedagogy, values and principles associated with ESD. Utilising an Appreciative Inquiry model, existing models of competences for sustainable development have been used to develop the framework. The framework is not aimed at the performance of the students; rather, it is applied to the course itself to identify if assessment opportunities are in keeping with an ESD approach. The framework is applied to three examples from Master’s programmes, with which the authors are affiliated in England and Jamaica. The findings identify key characteristics that should feature in assessing learning for sustainability. The framework enabled the authors to gauge the extent to which their assessment regimes are in line with the aims, purpose and content of their programmes. While the examples cited are from the field of education, the framework can be applied to any Master’s programmes containing elements of sustainable development.
Effect of Fracture on ESR Intensity Using a Low-Velocity Rotary Shear Apparatus
Authors: Tanaka Kiriha , Muto Jun , Yabe Yasuo , Oka Toshitaka , Nagahama Hiroyuki
Published: May 2021

We sheared simulated-quartz gouges using a low-velocity rotary shear apparatus and evaluated the relationship between electron spin resonance (ESR) intensity and displacement quantitatively considering problems of contaminants. ESR intensity of E1’ centre increased while OHC and peroxy centre kept constant with the increasing displacement up to 1.4 m. Microstructural analysis showed grain size reduction and fracture of starting gouges; hence, the fracture can affect the change in ESR intensity. ESR measurements were also conducted for starting gouges with variable amounts of contaminants, and it was confirmed that the effect of contaminants on the change in ESR intensity was negligible. Moreover, we estimated the temperature rise by the frictional heating on the surface and between particles, and it was shown that the effect of frictional heating on ESR intensity was also negligible in our experimental condition. Therefore, we could clarify the relationship between ESR intensity and fracturing with various displacements separately from contaminants and frictional heating. The results imply that the zero-setting of ESR signals cannot occur by the fracture with low frictional heating at the shallow depth.
High-throughput sequencing in vaccine research
Authors: Pasik Katarzyna , Domańska-Blicharz Katarzyna
Published: May 2021

The world of vaccines has changed tremendously since the time of Louis Pasteur. In the present day, it is regarded as vaccinology, a discipline which includes not only the knowledge of vaccine production, strategies for its delivery and influence on the clinical course of disease and the response of the host immune system but also regulatory, ethical, economic and ecological aspects of their use. A hundred years after Pasteur created the first vaccine, there was another scientific breakthrough of great importance in this field, i. e. Sanger sequencing. Progress in genome sequencing and other molecular techniques over the intervening 40 years has been enormous. High-throughput sequencing (HTS) platforms and bioinformatics tools are becoming widely available, falling in cost, and results are achieved very quickly. They enable the construction of modern vaccines, as well as the assessment of their safety, effectiveness and impact on the host organism and the environment. These techniques can also provide a tool for quality control of vaccines. Unprecedented possibilities are opened up by the HTS technique, but limiting factors on its implementation have to be contended with such as lack of reference materials and problems with method optimisation or validation. In the face of the current COVID-19 pandemic, a significant role is allotted to this sequencing technique while an effective vaccine against the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 is sough.
Hacking into Cybertherapy: Considering a Gesture-enhanced Therapy with Avatars (g+TA)
Authors: Gerner Alexander Matthias
Published: May 2021

This paper will philosophically extend Julian Leff’s Avatar therapy paradigm (AT) for voice-like hallucinations that was initially proposed for treatment-resistant Schizophrenia patients into the realm of gesture-enhanced embodied cognition and Virtual Reality (VR), entitled g+TA (gesture-enhanced Avatar Therapy). I propose an philosophy of technology approach of embodied rhetorics of triadic kinetic “actions” in the sense of Charles Sanders Peirce that transforms the voice hallucination incorporated by an avatar- and that can confront acousmatic voice-like hallucinations with a method of gesture synchronization and dyssynchronization and gestural refusal of interaction that the player with the Avatar can resist in full embodiment. This paper therefore introduces a gesture-enhanced, extended version of Cybertherapy with Avatars that tackle multimodal bodily experience of voice-like hallucinations beyond mere visual or auditory stimulation. This is put forward theoretically in a 4E-cognition approach that expands Avatar Therapy with gestures into VR.
The Impact of Aerobic Training on Some Brain Neurotransmitters and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Addicted Women
Authors: Koohestani Arezoo , Fathi Mehrdad , Hejazi Keyvan
Published: May 2021

Introduction. Addiction is a chronic disease that needs time-consuming treatment. The medicines used to stop or reduce the tendency have not been successful so far. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of six weeks of aerobic training (morning and afternoon) on some brain neurotransmitters, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and quality of life in addicted females.

Material and Methods. Thirty subjects were selected and divided into intervention (n = 15) and control (n = 15) groups. The aerobic training program consisted of six weeks of aerobic training, 3 sessions per week, and each session lasted for 45 to 60 minutes with a maximum intensity of 50-70% of the maximum heart rate. Paired sample t-test and ANCOVA were used to compare between- and within-group variance changes.

Results. Weight levels, body mass index and body fat percentage significantly decreased (p < 0.05), while the serum levels of serotonin, dopamine and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) increased significantly. The maximum oxygen consumption and quality of life increased significantly at the end of the period. Changes in intra-group mean in weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, dopamine, BDNF, maximum oxygen consumption, physical limitation, general health, vitality, social activity, physical and emotional function and life satisfaction are significantly different between experimental and control groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusions. Six-week aerobic training performed in the morning and afternoon reduces body composition indicators and increases brain neurotransmitters, quality of life and maximum oxygen consumption in addicted females. Therefore, it can be effective in improving physical and mental health.
EMG Activity of Transversus Abdominis, Multifidus and Co-Contraction Index in Different Phases Amongst Varied Level Archers: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Azhar Sheikh , Sharma Saurabh , Sharma Shalini , Tanwar Tarushi
Published: May 2021

Introduction. Core muscle activity is a necessary requirement in most sports. However, its role in archers has not been studied. Therefore, this study sought to determine muscle activity of Transversus abdominis (TA) and Multifidus (MF) and co-contraction index (CCI) using surface electromyography (s EMG) during different phases of shots in archers with different levels of training.

Material and Methods. It was an observational study with a cross-sectional design. Twenty-eight healthy male archers were recruited and grouped according to their level of training: Group A (Beginners (n = 9)), Group B (Trained (n = 10)), Group C (Elite (n = 9)). The muscle activation (%MVIC) for MF and TA for 10 successive archery shots (distance: 10 meters in 200 seconds) was recorded using s EMG for all the phases of the shots along with CCI.

Results. Three-way ANOVA revealed a significant difference for TA activity within groups (p ≤ 0.001) and phases (p = 0.002), A significant difference for MF activity was found within groups (p ≤ 0.001). A significant difference for CCI was found between groups (p ≤ 0.001) and in the interaction between phase × shot (p = 0.001).

Conclusions. The findings of the study showed that elite archers had more activity of the core muscles (TA and MF) and their CCI was found to be much higher with respect to the trained and beginner archers. Therefore, it is essential to incorporate dynamic stabilization exercises into archery training.
Kinesiophobia in Skiers with Knee Injuries
Authors: Jedvaj Helena , Kiseljak Dalibor , Petrak Olivera
Published: May 2021

Introduction. Alpine skiing is one of the most dangerous winter sports that entails a high number of injuries, most commonly affecting the knee. Kinesiophobia is a condition in which an individual experiences fear of physical movement and activity as a result of feeling susceptible to injuries or recurrent injuries. The objective was to examine the level of kinesiophobia in skiers who have sustained knee injuries.

Material and methods. The sample consisted of 22 female and 11 male professional skiers, with the average age of 24 ± 7.391 years. For the purpose of the assessment, the Tampa scale for kinesiophobia (TSK) was employed.

Results. The number of knee injuries in skiers totals at least 1 and 11 at most, on average 2.45, most commonly involving the anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus. There were no significant differences between the left and the right knee or bilateral injuries. The average score in the TSK totals 36 points, which is close to the critical threshold of 37 points. 36% of the participants possess a high level of kinesiophobia. With respect to the general level of kinesiophobia, no significant differences were found in relation to gender, with regard to the number of surgeries or whether one or both knees were affected by injuries. Older skiers have also been found to have significantly lower fear of recurrent injuries.

Conclusions. The number of knee injuries in skiing is high and aggravating, in such a way that almost one third of skiers that have sustained knee injuries experience a critical level of kinesiophobia, and that requires intervention. During rehabilitation, psychological support should also be provided to athletes in order to prevent or reduce kinesiophobia and thus prevent recurrent or new injuries.
Can dynamic imaging, using 18F-FDG PET/CT and CT perfusion differentiate between benign and malignant pulmonary nodules?
Authors: Marin Aleksander , Murchison John T. , Skwarski Kristopher M. , Tavares Adriana A.S. , Fletcher Alison , Wallace William A. , Salapura Vladka , van Beek Edwin J.R. , Mirsadraee Saeed
Published: May 2021

Background

The aim of the study was to derive and compare metabolic parameters relating to benign and malignant pulmonary nodules using dynamic 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18]fluoro-D-glucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT, and nodule perfusion parameters derived through perfusion computed tomography (CT).

Patients and methods

Twenty patients with 21 pulmonary nodules incidentally detected on CT underwent a dynamic 18F-FDG PET/CT and a perfusion CT. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) was measured on conventional 18F-FDG PET/CT images. The influx constant (Ki
) was calculated from the dynamic 18F-FDG PET/CT data using Patlak model. Arterial flow (AF) using the maximum slope model and blood volume (BV) using the Patlak plot method for each nodule were calculated from the perfusion CT data. All nodules were characterized as malignant or benign based on histopathology or 2 year follow up CT. All parameters were statistically compared between the two groups using the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test.

Results

Twelve malignant and 9 benign lung nodules were analysed (median size 20.1 mm, 9–29 mm) in 21 patients (male/female = 11/9; mean age ± SD: 65.3 ± 7.4; age range: 50–76 years). The average SUVmax values ± SD of the benign and malignant nodules were 2.2 ± 1.7 vs. 7.0 ± 4.5, respectively (p = 0.0148). Average Ki
values in benign and malignant nodules were 0.0057 ± 0.0071 and 0.0230 ± 0.0155 min-1, respectively (p = 0.0311). Average BV for the benign and malignant nodules were 11.6857 ± 6.7347 and 28.3400 ± 15.9672 ml/100 ml, respectively (p = 0.0250). Average AF for the benign and malignant nodules were 74.4571 ± 89.0321 and 89.200 ± 49.8883 ml/100g/min, respectively (p = 0.1613).

Conclusions

Dynamic 18F-FDG PET/CT and perfusion CT derived blood volume had similar capability to differentiate benign from malignant lung nodules.
Robotic versus laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer: a case-control study
Authors: Grosek Jan , Ales Kosir Jurij , Sever Primoz , Erculj Vanja , Tomazic Ales
Published: May 2021

Background

Robotic resections represent a novel approach to treatment of colorectal cancer. The aim of our study was to critically assess the implementation of robotic colorectal surgical program at our institution and to compare it to the established laparoscopically assisted surgery.

Patients and methods

A retrospective case-control study was designed to compare outcomes of consecutively operated patients who underwent elective laparoscopic or robotic colorectal resections at a tertiary academic centre from 2019 to 2020. The associations between patient characteristics, type of operation, operation duration, conversions, duration of hospitalization, complications and number of harvested lymph nodes were assessed by using univariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 83 operations met inclusion criteria, 46 robotic and 37 laparoscopic resections, respectively. The groups were comparable regarding the patient and operative characteristics. The operative time was longer in the robotic group (p < 0.001), with fewer conversions to open surgery (p = 0.004), with less patients in need of transfusions (p = 0.004) and lower reoperation rate (p = 0.026). There was no significant difference between the length of stay (p = 0.17), the number of harvested lymph nodes (p = 0.24) and the overall complications (p = 0.58).

Conclusions

The short-term results of robotic colorectal resections were comparable to the laparoscopically assisted operations with fewer conversions to open surgery, fewer blood transfusions and lower reoperation rate in the robotic group.
Predictive impact of the inflammation-based indices in uveal melanoma liver metastases treated with transarterial hepatic chemoperfusion
Authors: Ludwig Johannes M. , Haubold Johannes , Bauer Sebastian , Richly Heike , Siveke Jens T. , Wimmer Julia , Umutlu Lale , Schaarschmidt Benedikt M. , Theysohn Jens M.
Published: May 2021

Background

The aim of the study was to evaluate pretreatment inflammatory markers as prognostic factors in patients with unresectable uveal melanoma liver metastases treated with transarterial hepatic chemoperfusion.

Patients and methods

54 patients (44% male, median age: 61 years) were retrospectively assessed. A median of 3 (range: 1–11) treatment sessions were performed with melphalan (92%) or fotemustin (8%). Inflammatory indices were calculated as follows: neutrophils/nl to lymphocytes/nl ratio (NLR), systemic immune-inflammation index ([platelets/nl × neutrophils/nl]/[lymphocytes/nl]; SII), and platelets/nl to lymphocytes/nl ratio (PLR). The cut-off for dichotomization purposes was set at the median (inflammatory indices, hepatic tumor burden) or the upper level of normal. Kaplan Meier analysis was performed for median overall survival (OS) in months, and Cox proportional hazard model for uni(UVA) and multivariate (MVA) hazard ratio (HR, 95%CI) analyses were performed.

Results

Median OS of the study cohort was 7.7 (6.3–10.9) months. In UVA OS was prolonged for low C reactive protein (CRP) (13.5 vs. 5.2; p = 0.0005), low SII (10.8 vs. 5.6; p = 0.0005), low NLR (11.1 vs. 6.3; p = 0.0045), low aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (11.5 vs. 5.6; p = 0.015), alanine aminotransferases (ALT) (11.5 vs. 5.6; p = 0.01), and tumor burden ≦ 50% (8.2 vs. 4.8; p = 0.007). MVA confirmed low CRP (HR: 0.29, 0.11–0.7; p = 0.005), low SII (HR: 0.19, 0.11–0.7; p = 0.008), and low ALT (HR: 0.13, 0.02–0.63; p = 0.011) as independent predictors for prolonged OS. Patients with ≦ 1, 2, 3 elevated significant MVA-factors survived a median of 14.9, 7.7, and 3.9 months, respectively (p = 0.0001).

Conclusions

Pretreatment inflammatory markers (CRP, SII) and AST were independent prognostic survival markers in patients with uveal melanoma liver metastases treated with transarterial hepatic chemoperfusion. A combination of factors may help to identify patients potentially benefitting from treatment.
Marketing Online Using Change Request Management
Authors: Sas D. , Silaghi H. , Mesaros A. , Neagu M. , Spoialǎ D. , Silaghi A.M.
Published: May 2021

In this paper is presented the change request management approach of a web-based application which represents an online marketplace for local producers. Nowadays, for all type of businesses, working both offline and online is a must. In digitalization era, the fast development of a compact online marketplace platform involves both a well-established project plan and change management control system.
Smart Lighting System
Authors: Diaconu E.M.
Published: May 2021

This paper proposes a system that allows the control of the lights in a house, building/edifice. The system can be controlled by an application that is made in MIT App Inventor for mobile devices that use Android OS(operating system). The application sends data, via Bluetooth, to the control center, the control center powers on the selected light by turning it on and setting its intensity based on the user preferences. The control center is made from an Arduino Nano programing board, the signal used for powering the lights and setting the brightness is a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signal. The system contains the Arduino Nano board, Bluetooth HC-05 module for communication with the mobile application and four LED’s that are used to simulate the lights.
Applications Models Using Beaglebone FPGA
Authors: Soare S. , Predusca G. , Diaconu E.
Published: May 2021

In this paper it is proposed to offer solutions using the BeagleBone Black FPGA development board, together with a series of electronic devices: LEDs, ultrasonic sensors, proximity sensors. The applications were developed using various existing programming languages such as: JavaScript, Python, Ruby but also using various commands specific to the Linux operating system. Also, the entire work was implemented using an online programmable cloud environment, called Cloud9 IDE that allows accessing and modifying applications developed at will from any location with an active internet connection.
Wireless Weather Station Using Arduino Mega and Arduino Nano
Authors: Gheorghe A.C. , Stoica C.I.
Published: May 2021

The study aims for the development of a wireless weather station composed of two modules, the outdoor module that takes the temperature and humidity from the environment through the DHT22 sensor and transmits the information through the n24RFL01+ communication module to the indoor module. The indoor module takes the temperature and humidity from the environment and displays it on a 3.5” TFT display along with the information received from the outdoor module, also the date and time are displayed. The development boards used for the weather station are Arduino Mega 2560 for the indoor module and Arduino Nano for the outdoor module. The n24RFL01+ wireless communication module, depending on the model, can transmit data at a distance of 800+ m and the DHT22 sensor is very accurate. The programming code used for the development of the weather station is made in Arduino IDE. Arduino IDE is an open-source software that is used to write and upload code to the Arduino developing boards.
Modern Concepts of Energy-Efficient Civil and Residential Buildings. Case Study: Analysis of a Residential Building According to Nzeb Criteria
Authors: Vasiliu A. , Nedelcu Otilia , Sălişteanu I. C. , Magdun O.
Published: May 2021

The oil crisis, the measures taken because of global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions, the ecological actions carried out globally and the technical progress in the fields of electronics, energy, IT and telecommunications have led to the emergence Passive House concepts in the construction sector, of Passive Solar Building (passive construction based on solar energy), of Net Zero-Energy Building NZEB, of Plus Energy Building, of nearly Zero Energy Building nZEB, of Low-Energy Building, of Green House, of Zero Carbon House, of Smart House, of Healthy buildings and other equivalents or derivatives.

In this paper, these concepts will be cross-debated and the measures adopted at EU level and the influences exerted on the Romanian legislation on the field of civil and residential constructions will be presented.

Based on a case study, a residential construction will be characterized, representative of the current housing stock, in order to assess the degree of compliance with the minimum requirements of a house with low energy consumption, imposed by Romanian legislation in the field.
Electrical Characteristics Measuring Device for Security Systems
Authors: Ion V. , Gheorghe A. , Diaconu E.
Published: May 2021

The study aims for the development of a device that is capable to measure and store the electrical characteristics of security systems. The development of the device is done by using the Arduino Mega 2650 board, Arduino Ethernet shield 2, SD card module, 1.8” TFT ISP LCD, keyboard module, ASC712 current sensors, A.C voltage sensors and D.C voltage sensors. The measured data from the current and voltage sensors is stored on the SD card module and sent to the user via the ethernet connection. The data obtained from the device is useful to keep track of the power consumption of any security systems. The device is capable to measure the current and voltage from 10 separate security devices (e.g. cameras, motion sensors, DVRs).