bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural variations in basal decollement and internal deformation of the Lesser Himalayan Duplex trigger landscape morphology in NW Himalayan interiors
Authors: Dey Saptarshi , Thiede Rasmus , Biswas Arindam , Chakravarti Pritha , Jain Vikrant
Published: June 2020

Abstract. The Kishtwar Window (KW) of the NW Himalaya exposes the northwestern termination of the orogen-parallel anticlinal stack of thrust nappes, termed as the Lesser Himalayan Duplex and its evolution portrays rapid exhumation at least over the last 2–3 Myr. However, speculations remain if it still actively deforming. Here we combine morphometric analyses with structural and field evidences to describe the spatial pattern of internal deformation of the duplex. We suggest that the variations in the geometry of the basal décollement, the Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT) and internal faulting within the duplex define the observed neotectonic deformation. We recognize two significant steep stream segments/ knickzones, one in center of the window, and a second one along its western margin, which we relate to fault-ramps emerging from the MHT. The larger of the knickzones, in the core of the window, show an increase in the angle of foliations towards downstream. Highly-fractured and folded rocks at the base of the steep stream segment, suggest internal deformation of the duplex, possibly linked to surface-breaking thrust fault-ramp at the core of the duplex. The second steepened knickzone coincides with the western margin of the window and is identified by a narrow channel through a comparatively weaker bedrock gorge. Summarizing our findings, we favor a structural and active tectonic control on the growth of the duplex even over geomorphic timescales. Corroborating with previous studies, we suggest that the differential uplift and growth of the duplex is linked to several flat-ramp structures along the MHT.
Space Sound Effects Short Film Festival: using the film festival model to inspire creative art–science and reach new audiences
Authors: Archer Martin O.
Published: June 2020

Abstract. The ultra-low frequency analogues of sound waves in Earth's
magnetosphere play a crucial role in space weather; however, the public
is largely unaware of this risk to our everyday lives and technology.
As a way of potentially reaching new audiences, SSFX (Space Sound Effects) made 8 years
of satellite wave recordings audible to the human ear with the aim
of using it to create art. Partnering with film industry professionals,
the standard processes of international film festivals were adopted
by the project in order to challenge independent filmmakers to incorporate
these sounds into short films in creative ways. Seven films covering
a wide array of topics and genres (despite coming from the same sounds)
were selected for screening at a special film festival out of 22 submissions.
The works have subsequently been shown at numerous established film
festivals and screenings internationally. These events have attracted
diverse non-science audiences resulting in several unanticipated impacts on them, thereby demonstrating how working with the art world can
open up dialogues with both artists and audiences who would not ordinarily
engage with science.
The 2018 northern European hydrological drought and its drivers in a historical perspective
Authors: Bakke Sigrid J. , Ionita Monica , Tallaksen Lena M.
Published: June 2020

Abstract. In 2018, large parts of northern Europe were affected by an extreme drought. A better understanding of the characteristics and the large-scale atmospheric circulation driving such events is of high importance to enhance drought forecasting and mitigation. This paper examines the historical extremeness of the May–August 2018 meteorological situation and the accompanying meteorological and hydrological (streamflow and groundwater) drought. Further, it investigates the relationship between the large-scale atmospheric circulation and summer streamflow in the Nordic region. In May and July 2018, record-breaking temperatures were observed in large parts of northern Europe associated with blocking systems centred over Fennoscandia and sea surface temperature anomalies of more than 3 °C in the Baltic Sea (May, July) and the Barents Sea (July). Extreme meteorological drought, as indicated by the three-month standard precipitation index (SPI3) and precipitation-evapotranspiration index (SPEI3), was observed in May, and covered large parts of northern Europe by July. Streamflow drought in the Nordic region started to develop in June, and in July 68 % of the stations had record-low or near-record-low streamflow. Extreme streamflow conditions persisted in the southeastern part of the region throughout 2018. Many groundwater wells had record-low or near-record-low levels in July and August. However, extremeness in groundwater levels and (to a lesser degree) streamflow show a diverse spatial pattern. This points to the role of local terrestrial processes in controlling the hydrological response to meteorological conditions, including aquifer properties. Composite analysis of low summer streamflow and 500 mb geopotential height anomalies revealed a distinction between summer streamflow variability in western/northern Norway and the rest of the region. Low summer streamflow in western/northern Norway is related to high-pressure systems centred over the Norwegian Sea. In the rest of the Nordic region, low summer streamflow is associated with a high-pressure system over the North Sea and a low-pressure system over Greenland and Russia at similar latitudes, resembling the pattern of 2018. This study provides new insight into different hydro-meteorological aspects of the 2018 northern European drought, as well as identification of large-scale atmospheric circulation patterns associated with summer streamflow drought in the Nordic region.
Coastal mesoscale processes and their effect in phytoplankton distribution and community composition in the SE Bay of Biscay
Authors: Davila Xabier , Rubio Anna , Artigas Felipe , Puillat Ingrid , Manso-Narvarte Ivan , Lazure Pascal , Caballero Ainhoa
Published: June 2020

Abstract. Mesoscale dynamics play a major role in several ocean processes, not only in the transport of momentum, heat, mass, particles and microorganisms but also in the provisioning of nutrients into the euphotic zone. Mesoscale processes can define niches where specific phytoplankton species flourish. However, this effect is not straightforward in coastal areas, which are submitted to a more complex interplay between different oceanic processes. In this context, the ETOILE campaign surveyed the CapBreton canyon area in the South-East of Bay of Biscay in early August 2017. The main objective of this study was to link the occurrence and distribution of phytoplankton with the mesoscale ocean processes. On top of the remote sensing data available for this area, such as High Frequency radar or satellite data, in situ discrete hydrographic measurements were carried out by a CTD and a Moving Vessel Profiler. Likewise, multi-spectral fluorescence casts were performed in selected stations. Other parameters such as temperature, conductivity and in vivo multi-spectral fluorescence were also continuously recorded at surface. From our observations, we discuss on the distinct effect and importance of different factors affecting the phytoplankton distribution. Overall, salinity is the most important parameter modulating not only algae distribution but also the composition of the community in terms of spectral groups. Although below the mixed layer salinity still impacts significantly phytoplankton, vorticity comes into play and becomes the dominant factor determining both distribution and composition. The present study brings into consideration the relevance of the hydrodynamical variables in the study of phytoplankton.
Community attitude towards Community Health Fund on Health Security in Kalambo District, Rukwa Region, Tanzania
Authors: Kasonso Alexander D. , Chingonikaya Emanuel E. , Sikira Anna N.
Published: June 2020

Community Health Fund (CHF) is one among health insurance schemes found in Tanzania. It was established in 1996 with the aim of improving the health of people who work in informal sectors. However, since its formulation, it has not performed well; the majority of HHs are not members, and some members are withdrawing from the scheme. The overall objective was to assess the attitude of community members towards the importance of CHF for health security. Specifically, the paper assesses the attitude towards CHF interventions among members and non-members of CHF and compares the attitude between members and non-members of CHF on health security. Cross sectional research design was used in this study. Simple random sampling technique using the lottery method was employed to select 354 respondents. Data were collected using a household questionnaire survey, Focus Group Discussions guide, Key Informant Interviews checklist and documents’ reviews. Descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and content analysis were used to analyze the data. The findings show that CHF has inclusive benefits to its members as it covers costs of health treatment rather than paying money every time they attend medical treatments. Furthermore, the attitude towards CHF among members and non-members was accounted for 9.3% and 51.9 negative, 2.3% and 4.1 neutral and 88.4 and 44.0 positive. This indicates that the majority of people in the study area had a positive attitude towards CHF services. Thus, the study concludes that a great proportion of members of CHF in Kalambo District have positive attitude towards CHF intervention while the majority of non-members have negative attitude towards CHF intervention because they were not aware of it due to lack of knowledge. It is recommended that the government should mainstream CHF intervention to all communities so that non-members can join the scheme and hence get better health services.  Also, the study recommends that the CHF service providers should put more emphasis on sensitising communities against negative attitudes from non-members of CHF.
PROFESSOR CORREGENTE E O USO DE TECNOLOGIAS EDUCACIONAIS
Authors: Garcia Joyce Cordeiro Heindyk , Camas Núria Pons Vilardell
Published: June 2020

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar e compreender como os professores corregentes, do 3º ano do Ensino Fundamental de Curitiba, utilizam as tecnologias educacionais nas práticas pedagógicas e seu impacto no ensino - aprendizagem. A pesquisa é de caráter qualitativa, do tipo exploratória e teve como procedimento a pesquisa de campo. Foram analisados 18 questionários online e 10 entrevistas semiestruturadas, sob a luz da análise de discurso. Os resultados mostram que todos os docentes pesquisados acessam a internet para a pesquisa. A maioria utiliza e-mails, redes sociais e aplicativos de pesquisas e lazer. Utilizam o computador na escola e em suas casas para preparar aulas e atividades, mas, não há garantia de mudanças nas relações pedagógicas. É preciso avançar no uso das tecnologias educacionais em sala de aula, no trabalho pedagógico com os alunos, ou seja, em práticas significativas, em novas metodologias que aproveitem os potenciais disponibilizados por essas ferramentas.
MENINOS EFEMINADOS EM ESCOLAS RELIGIOSAS: DO COMBATE AO BULLYING À LEGITIMAÇÃO DA VIOLÊNCIA DE GÊNERO
Authors: De Castro Filho Josué
Published: June 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo explorar os desafios que as escolas religiosas enfrentam para lidar com a violência existente em seus ambientes, especificamente com o sofrimento social vivenciado por meninos considerados efeminados. O artigo apresenta um cenário teórico que critica a ideia de uma performance masculina ideal e derivada do sexo biológico e denuncia como esta concepção pode produzir ações de bullying contra alguns meninos de performances não heteronormativas, pode dificultar o combate à violência pelos trabalhadores escolares e pode manter o mal-estar vivenciado por estes meninos que frequentam escolas religiosas, também chamadas de confessionais. A rede de Escolas Adventistas é citada como um exemplo de escola confessional que, a partir de sua ideologia religiosa, pode ter dificuldades em enfrentar o bullying, correndo o risco de ter legitimada a violência de gênero em algumas condutas de seus servidores.
A Comparative Study of the Development of Technology-Intensive Industries: Korean and Romanian Automobile Industries
Authors: Kang Jae Min , Mah Jai S.
Published: June 2020

The automobile industry is a technology-intensive industry that has the potential to create successes in many other related industries. This paper analyzes the approaches taken during the developmental processes of the automobile industries in Romania and Korea. This paper identifies the causes of their rapid growth and compares the experiences of the two nations particularly with respect to the approaches they took during the developmental stages of their automobile industries. Automobile industries in these two countries, Dacia and Hyundai in particular, contributed to economic growth in terms of employment, income generation and development of advanced technologies via the linkage effect. After comparing the merger and acquisition approach in Romania with the technology licensing approach in Korea in light of the government policies which pursued industrialization since the 1960s, it provides policy implications for developing countries which try to develop technology-intensive industries such as the automobile industry.
Thoughts on Competitiveness and Integrated Industrial Policy: A Field of Mutual Convergences
Authors: Vlados Charis , Chatzinikolaou Dimos
Published: June 2020

Competitiveness and industrial policy seem to play a critical role in the development and mutation of different spatialized socio-economic systems. This article aims to review the literature on these two concepts and suggest a novel theoretical framework. First, we identify that, in the relevant literature, industrial policy acquires progressively a repositioned content, described as a new, holistic, multidimensional, or integrated policy that can help create and sustain the competitiveness of the firms, industries, localities, nations, or other socio-economic agglomerations. In this context, we explore the form of an actual integrated industrial policy and propose the theoretical framework of the competitiveness web, in which the co-evolution of micro-meso-macro levels are explored, by placing the dynamics of business innovation at the dialectic center of the overall developmental process. This integrated industrial policy to strengthen competitiveness must also be able to promote innovation in the different local and regional ecosystems and, therefore, we conceive a policy mechanism in the form of the Institutes of Local Development and Innovation (ILDI). The primary purpose of these institutes is to diagnose and strengthen the Stra.Tech.Man physiology (strategy-technology-management synthesis) of the local socio-economic organizations. We believe that this new approach to the integrated industrial policy to strengthen the local competitiveness can contribute to facilitating the adaptation of the socio-economic systems, and especially the less dynamic and developed, to the new emerging challenges of the crisis and restructuring of globalization in the pandemic era.
Econometric Analysis of Tourist Demand in the Absheron Peninsula (Baku-Azerbaijan)
Authors: Bayramli Gadir , Aliyev Vasif
Published: June 2020

In today’s modern world, tourism has become an ascendant business, withal one of the most remuneratively lucrative and dynamic sectors of the economy. The tourism business is correspondingly developing on the Absheron Peninsula (Baku-Azerbaijan), where the development strategy is mainly conducted by the state. Since tourism has an impact on the development of the territory: it avails to replenish the budget, ameliorate convivial and market infrastructure, engender incipient jobs and contributes to the development of employment, the main directions of state measures for the development of the tourism industry of the Absheron Peninsula are withal identified. Since the tourism industry is developing on the Absheron Peninsula (Baku-Azerbaijan), it is suggested to develop new tours and routes, ways to expand cooperation with leading universities of the world in order to develop exchange of experience. The article discusses the historical development of tourism on the Absheron Peninsula (Baku- Azerbaijan). The definition of the rudimental concepts of the tourism industry on the peninsula is provided, the socio-economic factors in this area are deemed. Since the economic factor plays a paramount role in the development of this area, the key development areas are identified. The research results can be applied in the further development of the Absheron Peninsula tourism business (Baku-Azerbaijan). The study is predicated on an analysis of literary and statistical sources. The fundamental data in the research process were designators of the tourism industry in Azerbaijan. The assessment of the prospects of tourism development on the Absheron Peninsula (Baku-Azerbaijan) is presented. Thereafter, the estimation methodology is discussed with a presentation of the univariate characteristics of the data. Determinately, the estimation results are discussed and conclusions are drawn from the findings. The consequentiality of the financial component of scholastic tours that require certain investments is indicated. In the process of research, quandaries were identified along with their solutions.
The Relationship between Psychological Capital, Job Performance and Job Satisfaction in Higher Education Institutions Offering Sports Education
Authors: Biricik Yunus Sinan
Published: June 2020

Psychological capital, which is one of the developing areas of positive organizational behavior, is seen as a psychological resource that can encourage development and performance among employees. In the field of sports education, increasing the psychological capital levels of the employees and increasing the performance and job satisfaction can be effective. The aim of this study is to determine the psychological capital, job performance and job satisfaction levels of academic staff working in higher education institutions offering sports education in terms of various variables and to examine the relationship between them. The study sample consisted of a total of 122 sports science academicians, including 30 female and 92 males, who worked in different regions of Turkey. The Organizational Psychological Capital Scale, Job Performance and Job Satisfaction Scales were used as data collection tools in the study. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Tukey HSD and correlation test. According to the findings obtained in the research, a high level of positive correlation was found between the psychological capital dimensions and job performance. Again, a moderately positive correlation was found between the psychological resilience, hope and self-efficacy dimensions of the psychological capital and job satisfaction.
Analysis of Preschool Period Children's Listening Skill According to Some Variables
Authors: Bay Dondu Neslıhan , Seker Perıhan Tugba
Published: June 2020

This research was carried out to determine the listening skill of the children attending pre-school education institutions and to analyze them according to some socio-demographic variables. The research was carried out in the general survey model, one of the quantitative research methods. The sample of the study wascomprised of 429 children attending kindergarten and nursery classin the central districts of Eskisehir and Usak. The data collection tool used in the research was “The Scale for the Evaluation of Preschool Children’s Listening Skill” developed by Özer Özkan and Coşkun (2015). The listening skill of the children were analyzed according to child's age, gender, birth order, number of siblings, school attendance time, and age, education and employment of the parents. The listening skill scores of the children participating in the research were found to be high. It was found that the scale did not differ significantly according to gender, birth order, school attendance time, education level and employment status of the parents, however, it differed according to the age of the child and the age of the parents.Findings obtained from the research were discussed in line with the related literature and suggestions were submitted.
Cost Benefit Analyses in Managing Late Blight Through Trichoderma asperellum Seed Treatment and Ridomil® Application on Potato
Authors: Jackson Kilonzi M. , Joseph Mafurah J. , Wambomba Nyongesa M. , Nancy Ng’ang’a
Published: June 2020

Fungicides overuse in management of late blight has led to increased cost of production and biodiversity issues. To better understand costs and benefits associated with seed treatment to reduce fungicide application, apical cutting and tuber seed crop were pre-treated by either peridermal injection or dipping using T. asperellum suspension at 33%, 66% and 100% concentration and then sprayed separately with Ridomil® (Metalaxyl 4% + Mancozeb 64%) at 21, 14 and 7 (Manufacturer’s Recommended Regime) days interval. Results showed that apical cuttings had 7.5% higher disease severity and 0.2% lower yield than crop from seed tuber. Untreated and 33% T. asperellum were not significant different (p = 0.05) in disease and yield scores. T. asperellum concentration at 66% and 100% reduced disease severity by 26% and 27% resulting to 30% and 29% yield increment respectively. Spray interval of 14 days did not differ significantly from 7 day spray interval in terms of disease score and yield but the regime MRR% was double 7 day spray interval. Maximum yield loss was observed in unprotected plots followed by treatments sprayed at 21 days interval. Combination of 66% and 100% T. asperellum concentration with 14 days interval resulted to higher yield and marginal rate of return compared to any other combination. Seed dipping was four times profitable than injection. The findings suggest that seed treatment at 66% and 100% T. asperellum concentration by dipping in combination with Ridomil® application at 14 days interval significantly reduced late blight epidemics and improved on yield and consequently increased net farm income.
A Method of Location Selection for Rural Highway Transportation Service Facilities Based on GIS
Authors: Huang Lili , Xu Shuangying , Lu Languang , Xu Liangfei , Li Yanjing , Zhang Yaping
Published: June 2020

To efficiently organize and optimize travel modes, meet safe, convenient and comfortable travel requirements for passengers, and promote the sound development of transportation infrastructure on rural highways, this paper reviews the common location selection methods for highway passenger stations, and compares the advantages and disadvantages of existing methods. Using rural highway passenger station as the research subject, we proposed a scientific, systematic and practical method for location selection based on GIS (Geographic Information System) technology. At the same time, we used AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) to establish, and to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the model—in a scientific and rational framework—to determine the location of the stations. Location input data collected by this method are comprehensive, accurate and quickly-calculated. The entire site selection process is visualized in the form of pictures, which provides a method and theoretical reference value in the future for site selection construction on Rural Highway Transportation Service Facilities. Herein, this paper uses passenger stations as a research object and uses the stated methods above to achieve the desired results.
Distinctive patterns of pulmonary function change according to baseline lung volume and diffusing capacity
Authors: Kang J. , Oh Y-M. , Lee J-H. , Kim E. K. , Lim S. Y. , Kim W. J. , Yoon H. I. , Kim T-H. , Park T. S. , Kim S. O. , Lee S. W. , Lee S-D. , Lee J. S. , KOLD Study Group
Published: June 2020

SETTING: Multicentre retrospective study in South Korea.OBJECTIVE: To longitudinally evaluate changes in lung volume and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) with forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1).DESIGN: A total of 155 patients
with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), whose pulmonary function parameters were measured annually for 5 years, were selected from a prospective cohort in South Korea. A random coefficients model was used to estimate mean annual FEV1, lung volume parameter and DLCO change
rates.RESULTS: Patients were classified into four groups based on baseline DLCO and residual volume/total lung capacity (RV/TLC) measurements. The annual FEV1 decline rate was greater in patients with low DLCO than in those with normal DLCO, with the greatest decline
occurring in patients with low DLCO and normal RV/TLC. RV and RV/TLC declined in patients with high RV/TLC, whereas these increased in patients with normal RV/TLC. DLCO decreased longitudinally in all four groups, with the greatest decline occurring in patients with normal DLCO and normal
RV/TLC.CONCLUSIONS: Different subgroups of patients with COPD exhibited distinctive pulmonary function change patterns. Baseline DLCO and RV/TLC may be used as physiological markers to predict long-term changes in pulmonary function.
Car-free housing estate project – opportunities, possibilities, perspectives
Authors: Szumilas Agnieszka
Published: June 2020

The number of cars in Polish cities increases every year. Despite the coexistence of other means of transport, such as public transport or cycling - the car is still the favorite means of transport for many residents. The significant increase in the number of registered cars, which can be observed consistently since the beginning of the 1990s, has left its mark throughout the city, especially in the human residence zone. Car-free housing estates are an alternative. Residents consciously give up parking space deciding on the city's communication system. The main purpose of the article is to analyse the system of functioning of car-free settlements in Europe and in the world as well as to determine the factors favoring such investments. The complementary goal is to present the possibilities of implementing this type of housing estates in Polish cities, taking into account possible social, planning and spatial barriers.
Wpływ pandemii COVID-19 na powrót polskiej kadry inżynierskiej z emigracji
Authors: Kaczorek Krzysztof
Published: June 2020

Kwestia odpływu kadry inżynierskiej za granicę to jeden z problemów, z którymi od lat zmaga się polski sektor budowlany. Wybuch globalnej pandemii COVID-19 przełożył się na zwiększenie liczby powrotów inżynierów budownictwa z zagranicy. W artykule przeanalizowano powroty specjalistów budowlanych z emigracji w okresie od kwietnia 2019 do kwietnia 2020 roku. Uwzględniono takie czynniki jak okres przebywania za granicą, przyczyny przerwania lub zakończenia emigracji, plany zawodowe w Polsce oraz poziom wynagrodzeń, który zapobiegłyby ponownemu odpływowi inżynierów budownictwa poza granicę państwa.
Scratch na produção de recursos interdisciplinares com disciplinas indígenas
Authors: Rabêlo Hévellyn , De Oliveira Wênnio , Santos Luan , De Araújo Ana Liz , Souza Flávia
Published: June 2020

Integrate computation at primary education is a current challenge. This work is an initiative that provides planning, implementation and evaluation of a course that integrate computational thinking by programming in Art and Culture and Tupi Language disciplines at Indian schools. Scratch was used to produce animations in the contents of indigenous culture. The animations were evaluated by a framework to measure the computational thinking with Scratch code.
Métodos Ágeis em um Núcleo de Práticas Acadêmico: Relato de Experiência
Authors: Almendra Camilo , Magalhães Regis , De Almeida Carlos
Published: June 2020

Há larga evidência da efetividade do uso de métodos ágeis no desenvolvimento profissional de software, sendo essencial sua incorporação na formação de egressos de cursos da área de Computação. No entanto, métodos ágeis exigem experiência e disciplina das equipes e sua adoção na universidade deve levar em conta a falta de maturidade e de experiência natural aos profissionais iniciantes. Esse relato apresenta a experiência do Núcleo de Práticas em Informática do Campus da UFC em Quixadá na adoção de práticas baseadas em métodos ágeis. As práticas relatadas neste trabalho demonstram que seu uso em ambientes acadêmicos trazem benefícios para a qualidade dos produtos e da formação dos alunos, porém devem ser adotadas e adaptadas de acordo com necessidades e restrições acadêmicas.
GSPROJECTS - Ambiente para Simulação da Gestão de Projetos de Software
Authors: Leite Danilo , Delfino Samyr , Mélo Cláudia , Medeiros Álvaro , De Andrade Hálamo
Published: June 2020

A utilização de jogos para educação e treinamento tem um alto poder de atração se comparado a outras formas de aprendizado. Jogos caracterizados por esta finalidade são classificados como jogos sérios, pois associam conteúdos específicos a aspectos lúdicos, proporcionando um engajamento e resultados significantes quando bem modelados. Este artigo traz a proposta do GSPROJECTS, um jogo sério voltado para a gestão de projetos sustentável utilizando cenários reais, no qual alunos da área de Tecnologia da Informação são provocados a utilizar os seus conhecimentos na condução e resolução de problemas dentro de um projeto. O GSPROJECTS estimula as funções cognitivas, associadas à percepção e à aprendizagem, permitindo ao professor editar os desafios por meio do módulo questionário, possibilitando que o jogo se adapte aos diferentes currículos dos cursos de graduação na área de Computação e Informática.
RPG4Sorting - Um Jogo Educacional para Auxílio ao Ensino de Métodos de Ordenação
Authors: Nunes Isabella , Parreira Júnior Paulo
Published: June 2020

Este artigo apresenta um jogo educacional, denominado RPG4Sorting, cujo intuito é aprimorar a interação entre alunos e professores durante o processo de ensinoaprendizagem de métodos de ordenação. O grande diferencial deste jogo em relação aos demais existentes na literatura é o fato de ele ser um jogo de tabuleiro no estilo RPG (Role- Playing Game). A principal vantagem de um jogo de tabuleiro neste estilo é que ele permite a interação em tempo real entre os seus jogadores, o que consiste em um elemento importante para um jogo educacional. Em uma avaliação realizada com alunos de graduação em Ciência da Computação, o RPG4Sorting foi bem avaliado em atributos relacionados à interação social e experiência do usuário, porém, apresentou fragilidades em termos de divertimento e satisfação dos usuários.
Oficinas de Programação com Ambientes Lúdicos para Meninas do Ensino Fundamental
Authors: Souza Suenny , Rios Mirela , Rodrigues Carlos , Dos Santos David , Bittencourt Roberto
Published: June 2020

O baixo interesse e o pouco engajamento feminino na área de tecnologia de informação (TI) têm levado a vários estudos e iniciativas para compreender as razões deste contexto e propor mudanc¸as em direção a um melhor equilíbrio de gênero na área. Uma das alternativas propostas consiste em apresentar a área de TI durante a infância e adolescência de meninas, reduzindo preconceitos e combatendo estereótipos negativos. Neste trabalho, realizamos oficinas de programação de computadores com meninas em uma escola do ensino fundamental utilizando o ambiente lúdico de programação Scratch. Para analisar os resultados, produzimos diários de bordo relatando as impressões das tutoras em cada dia da oficina. As principais lições aprendidas foram: os desafios propostos estimulam a criatividade e instigam o espírito investigativo das estudantes; o uso de jogos e o ambiente Scratch atraem a atenção e o interesse das meninas; identificamos alguns jogos e atividades adequados aos gostos das alunas. Apesar de algumas dificuldades relacionadas a raciocínio lógico e trabalho em grupo, conseguimos chegar a um formato de oficina razoavelmente estimulante e atraente para meninas estudantes do ensino fundamental.
Knowledge-Based Controller Optimised with Particle Swarm Optimisation for Adaptive Path Tracking Control of an Autonomous Heavy Vehicle
Authors: Hafizah Amer Noor , Hudha Khisbullah , Zamzuri Hairi , Rau Aparow Vimal , Faiz Zainal Abidin Amar , Abd Kadir Zulkiffli , Murrad Muhamad
Published: June 2020

This chapter discusses the development of an adaptive path tracking controller equipped with a knowledge-based supervisory algorithm for an autonomous heavy vehicle. The controller was developed based on a geometric/kinematic controller, the Stanley controller. One of the mostly known issues with any geometric/kinematic controller is that a properly tuned controller may not be valid in a different operating region than the one it was being tuned/optimised on. Therefore, this study proposes an adaptive algorithm to automatically choose an optimal controller parameter depending on the manoeuvring and vehicle conditions. An optimal knowledge database is developed for an adaptive algorithm to automatically obtain the parameter values based on the vehicle speed, v, and heading error, ϕ. Several simulations are carried out with different trajectories and speeds to evaluate the effectiveness of the controller against its predecessors, namely, Stanley and the non-adaptive modified Stanley (Mod St) controllers. The simulated steering actions are then compared against human driver’s experimental data along the predefined paths. It was shown that the proposed adaptive algorithm managed to guide the heavy vehicle successfully and adapt to various trajectories with different vehicle speeds while recording lateral error improvement of up to 82% compared to the original Stanley controller.
History and the International Order in Hegel’s Philosophy of Right
Authors: Barile Davide ,   Hegel Society of America
Published: June 2020

For a long time, the sections of the Philosophy of Right dedicated to the relations among states have been neglected by contemporary International Relations theories. However, especially since the end of the Cold War, this discipline has finally reconsidered Hegel’s theory, in particular by stressing two aspects: the thesis of an ”end of history” implied in it; and, more generally, the primacy of the state in international politics. This paper suggests a different interpretation. It argues that, in order to really understand Hegel’s theory of international relations, it is necessary to consider how it is related to the momentous changes that occurred in the wake of the French Revolution and to previous philosophical developments in the Age of Enlightenment. Indeed, the convergence of these two aspects in his own philosophy of history should suggest that, according to Hegel, by the early nineteenth century international politics had finally entered a new era in which states would still interact as the foremost actors, but would be bound nonetheless by an unprecedented awareness of their historical character.
SYNTHESIS AND COMPLETE NMR SPECTRAL ASSIGNMENTS OF NEW BENZYLAMINO COUMARIN DERIVATIVE
Authors: Dekić Vidoslav , Radulović Niko , Ristić Milenko , Dekić Biljana , Ristić Novica
Published: June 2020

This research involves the reaction of 4-chloro-3-nitrocoumarin and (4-methoxyphenyl)methanamine, whereby a novel coumarin derivative 4-[(4-methoxybenzyl) amino]-3-nitro-2H-chromen-2-one was obtained in good yield. The reaction was carried out in ethyl acetate, in the presence of triethylamine. Also, a detailed spectral analysis of a new coumarin derivative is presented. Resonance assignment was achieved using one- (1H NMR and 13C NMR) and two-dimensional NMR techniques (1H-1H-COSY, NOESY, HSQC, and HMBC). The NOESY correlations of protons from arylamino substituent and coumarin core indicate their spatial orientation.
Mystery fiction in culture: evolution of genre and crisis of cultural paradigm of modernity
Authors: Pigalev Sergey
Published: June 2020

The subject of this research is the phenomenon of mystery fiction and its evolution in the context of development of sociocultural project of modernity. The latter is viewed as a complex system, which fundamental principles permeate the entire fabrics of European culture, generating such phenomenon as a mystery fiction plot. The analysis of its varieties deepens the understanding of specificity of modernity and mature of crises that has captured it. Hermeneutic analysis allows going beyond the frames of the narrow-disciplinary analysis of the corresponding texts, allowing to determine the inevident layers within the phenomenon of narration of mystery fiction. The initial methodological point is presented by the concept of V. P. Rudnev, who identified interrelation between the mystery fiction storylines and dominant gnoseological paradigm. The author determines the four levels of narration of mystery fiction: ontological, gnoseological, anthropological, and ethical-normative. The classical (analytical) mystery fiction describes reality commensurable to human reason (ontological level), investigation appears as strict analysis (gnoseological level), detective resembles a “private thinker” who is distant from the society and the crime itself (anthropological level), and a crime is interpreted as a deviation that disturbs harmony of the rational order (ethical-normative level). In this sense, a classical mystery fiction is a reflection of metanarrative of modernity, aimed at building a complete system, and excluding the Other. At the same time, the crisis of the basis of modernity is essentially reflected in metamorphoses of mystery fiction genre. In existential and pragmatic mystery fiction, reality is irrational, and boundaries between the norm and deviation are being diluted. Such situation may be describes as disappointment in metanarrative – in underlines the inability of modern culture to adequately fulfill its fundamental functions. The Other strike roots in the cultural space; however, the space itself exists in accordance with the principles of postmodern anarchy.
MEIS-mediated suppression of human prostate cancer growth and metastasis through HOXB13-dependent regulation of proteoglycans
Authors: VanOpstall Calvin , Perike Srikanth , Brechka Hannah , Gillard Marc , Lamperis Sophia , Zhu Baizhen , Brown Ryan , Bhanvadia Raj , Vander Griend Donald J
Published: June 2020

The molecular roles of HOX transcriptional activity in human prostate epithelial cells remain unclear, impeding the implementation of new treatment strategies for cancer prevention and therapy. MEIS proteins are transcription factors that bind and direct HOX protein activity. MEIS proteins are putative tumor suppressors that are frequently silenced in aggressive forms of prostate cancer. Here we show that MEIS1 expression is sufficient to decrease proliferation and metastasis of prostate cancer cells in vitro and in vivo murine xenograft models. HOXB13 deletion demonstrates that the tumor-suppressive activity of MEIS1 is dependent on HOXB13. Integration of ChIP-seq and RNA-seq data revealed direct and HOXB13-dependent regulation of proteoglycans including decorin (DCN) as a mechanism of MEIS1-driven tumor suppression. These results define and underscore the importance of MEIS1-HOXB13 transcriptional regulation in suppressing prostate cancer progression and provide a mechanistic framework for the investigation of HOXB13 mutants and oncogenic cofactors when MEIS1/2 are silenced.
Spatial patterns of bat diversity overlap with woodpecker abundance
Authors: Kotowska Dorota , Zegarek Marcin , Osojca Grzegorz , Satory Andrzej , Pärt Tomas , Żmihorski Michał
Published: June 2020

Woodpecker diversity is usually higher in natural forests rich in dead wood and old trees than in managed ones, thus this group of birds is regarded as an indicator of forest biodiversity. Woodpeckers excavate cavities which can be subsequently used by several bird species. As a consequence, their abundance indicates high avian abundance and diversity in forests. However, woodpecker-made holes may be also important for other animals, for example, mammals but it has seldom been investigated so far. Here, we examine how well one species, the Great Spotted Woodpecker, predicts species richness, occurrence and acoustic activity of bats in Polish pine forests. In 2011 we conducted woodpecker and bat surveys at 63 point-count sites in forests that varied in terms of stand age, structure and amount of dead wood. From zero to five Great Spotted Woodpeckers at a point-count site were recorded. The total duration of the echolocation calls during a 10-min visit varied from 0 to 542 s and the number of bat species/species groups recorded during a visit ranged between zero to five. The local abundance of the woodpecker was positively correlated with bat species richness (on the verge of significance), bat occurrence and pooled bat activity. The occurrence of Eptesicus and Vespertilio bats and Nyctalus species was positively related with the abundance of the Great Spotted Woodpecker. The activity of Pipistrellus pygmaeus, Eptesicus and Vespertilio bats and a group of Myotis species was not associated with the woodpecker abundance, but echolocation calls of Nyctalus species, P. nathusii and P.pipistrellus were more often at sites with many Great Spotted Woodpeckers. Moreover, the probability of bat presence and the activity of bats was generally higher shortly after dusk and in middle of the summer than in late spring. We suggest that the observed correlations can be driven by similar roosting habitats (e.g., woodpeckers can provide breeding cavities for bats) or possibly by associated invertebrate food resources of woodpeckers and bats. The abundance of Great Spotted Woodpecker seems to be a good positive indicator of bat species richness, occurrence and activity, thus adding a group of relatively cryptic forest species that are indicated by the presence of the Great Spotted Woodpecker.
KIT is involved in melanocyte proliferation, apoptosis and melanogenesis in the Rex Rabbit
Authors: Hu Shuaishuai , Chen Yang , Zhao Bohao , Yang Naisu , Chen Shi , Shen Jinyu , Bao Guolian , Wu Xinsheng
Published: June 2020

Background

Melanocytes play an extremely important role in the process of skin and coat colors in mammals which is regulated by melanin-related genes. Previous studies have demonstrated that KIT is implicated in the process of determining the color of the coat in Rex rabbits. However, the effect of KIT on the proliferation and apoptosis of melanocytes and melanogenesis has not been clarified.

Methods

The mRNA and protein expression levels of KIT were quantified in different coat colored rabbits by qRT-PCR and a Wes assay. To identify whether KIT functions by regulating of melanogenesis, KIT overexpression and knockdown was conducted in melanocytes, and KIT mRNA expression and melanin-related genes TYR, MITF, PMEL and DCT were quantified by qRT-PCR. To further confirm whether KIT influences melanogenesis in melanocytes, melanin content was quantified using NaOH lysis after overexpression and knockdown of KIT. Melanocyte proliferation was estimated using a CCK-8 assay at 0, 24, 48 and 72 h after transfection, and the rate of apoptosis of melanocytes was measured by fluorescence-activated cell sorting.

Results

KITmRNA and protein expression levels were significantly different in the skin of Rex rabbits with different color coats (P < 0.05), the greatest levels observed in those with black skin. The mRNA expression levels of KIT significantly affected the mRNA expression of the pigmentation-related genes TYR, MITF, PMEL and DCT (P < 0.01). Melanin content was evidently regulated by the change in expression patterns of KIT (P < 0.01). In addition, KIT clearly promoted melanocyte proliferation, but inhibited apoptosis.

Conclusions

Our results reveal that KIT is a critical gene in the regulation of melanogenesis, controlling proliferation and apoptosis in melanocytes, providing additional evidence for the mechanism of pigmentation of animal fur.
Comparative Phytochemical and Anti-microbial Studies of Leaf, Stem, Root of Spathodea companulata
Authors: Anarado C. E. , Anarado C. J. O. , Umedum N. L. , Ogbodo Q. M.
Published: June 2020

Aim: To compare the phytochemicals and anti bacterial activities of leaf, stem and root extracts of Spathodea companulata.

Methodology: The leaf, stem and root of Spathodea companulata were collected, washed, air-dried, ground and each extracted with water, methanol, ethyl acetate and n-hexane. The extracts were analysed for the presence of phytochemicals. Antimicrobial analysis was also carried out on the extracts.

Results: Glycosides were present in all the extracts except stem aqueous extract. Steroids were found absent in most of the extracts except methanol stem and n-hexane root extracts. Saponins were found in methanol, aqueous and ethyl acetate extracts of the root and stem, and in methanol and aqueous leaf extracts. Alkaloids were present in methanol and aqueous extracts of the leaf and root, and in ethyl acetate and n- hexane extracts of the stem. Quantity of Alkaloids and tannins were higher in leaf, while flavonoids and glycosides were higher in the stem and the roots contained higher amount of saponins. The extraction solvent polarities played important role in the type of metabolites extracted. The stem extracts were found to be most active against the seven test organisms used.

Conclusion: More work should be done on the isolation and identification of compounds responsible for some of the pharmacological effects of the plant parts and the subsequent development of the compounds in formulation of drugs.
Hazard Quotient and Bioaccumulation Assessment of 26 Organochlorine Pesticides in Water, Sediment and Fish (Tilapia zilli) Warri River, Niger Delta Region - Southern Nigeria
Authors: Edjere Oghenekohwiroro , Ukpebor Justina , Felix Okieimen E. , Thomas Glaettli
Published: June 2020

A pesticide is any substance or mixture of substances used to destroy, suppress or alter the life cycle of any pest. Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) have been known to resist biodegradation, persist in the environment and thus can concentrate through food chains and produce a significant magnification that can pose severe toxic risk to human health. Bioaccumulation and concentration levels of 26 Organochlorine Pesticides were assessed in water, sediment and fish samples from the Warri River, Nigeria. Samples were collected across the two predominant seasons - rainy and the dry season. The results obtained reveal the presence of 22 of the investigated 26 OCPs in the dry season whereas 19 were detected in the rainy season. Results obtained revealed p,p’-DDT, γ-HCH, and aldrin as the most predominant pesticides detected in the water samples with concentrations of 0.588; 0.160 and 0.092 μg/L, respectively. γ-HCH, p’-DDD and aldrin (29.00; 23.00 and 22.00 ng/g, respectively) for the sediment samples. The most predominant contaminants in the fish samples were HCB, o,p’-DDT, γ-HCH (60.00; 29.00 and 27.00 ng/g, respectively). The Hazard Quotient (HQ) analysis was carried out on the fish samples collected revealed factors of 1.34 to 3.17 indicating a moderate hazard while the Bioaccumulation Index (BI) was found to be below 1 indicating their suitability for consumption. However, the risk of toxicity and bioaccumulation arising from long-term consumption of the OCP-contaminated fish may still exist.