bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Inhomogeneity Index Evaluation of a DCT-based EIT Lung Imaging
Authors: Chen Rongqing , Möller Knut
Published: February 2021

Purpose: To evaluate a novel structural-functional DCT-based EIT lung imaging method against the classical EIT reconstruction. Method: Taken retrospectively from a former study, EIT data was evaluated using both reconstruction methods. For different phases of ventilation, EIT images are analyzed with respect to the global inhomogeneity (GI) index for comparison. Results: A significant less variant GI index was observed in the DCTbased method, compared to the index from classical method. Conclusion: The DCT-based method generates more accurate lung contour yet decreasing the essential information in the image which affects the GI index. These preliminary results must be consolidated with more patient data in different breathing states.
Dexamethasone release from photopolymerised PEGDA700 for cochlea drug delivery
Authors: Thomas Eickner , Teske Michael , Rekowska Natalia , Senz Volkmar , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Grabow Niels
Published: February 2021

Sustained local drug release and high local drug concentrations can be achieved by specially designed DDSs, which can be created for different applications. This results in therapeutic drug amounts at the site of action, simultaneously providing a very low drug amount in total. Bodily compartments that contain liquids may be used to transport the drugs from DDS into the tissue, such as the cochlea with the perilymph in the case of cochlea implants. However, predominantly dry environments, such as the middle ear, are lacking such a medium but may deliver enough moisture for the use of swellable DDS through the surrounding mucus membranes. Therefore, DDS with new functionalities are needed to ensure a sustained drug release. In this study, the release of dexamethasone out of a photopolymer system is presented. The system is built from UV-polymerized PEGDA followed by the incorporation of dexamethasone via swelling. The drug release is tested in vitro with isotonic NaCl solution for specified time periods, showing two phases: a swelling phase and a release phase. After the swelling phase the concentration of dexamethasone in the release medium was not controlled by diffusion, although sink conditions were ensured. In contrast, this system can be used to release the drug until equilibrium with a final medium concentration that is far below the solubility of dexamethasone. Hence, such DDS may be useful for dexamethasone delivery into the cochlea through the round window membrane by ensuring a constant concentration in the perilymph.
Optimization Framework to Identify Constitutive Law Parameters of the Human Heart
Authors: Kovacheva Ekaterina , Baron Lukas , Schuler Steffen , Gerach Tobias , Dössel Olaf , Loewe Axel
Published: February 2021

Over the last decades, computational models have been applied in in-silico simulations of the heart biomechanics. These models depend on input parameters. In particular, four parameters are needed for the constitutive law of Guccione et al., a model describing the stress-strain relation of the heart tissue. In the literature, we could find a wide range of values for these parameters. In this work, we propose an optimization framework which identifies the parameters of a constitutive law. This framework is based on experimental measurements conducted by Klotz et al.. They provide an end-diastolic pressure-volume relationship. We applied the proposed framework on one heart model and identified the following elastic parameters to optimally match the Klotz curve: C=313 Pa, bf=17.8, bt=7.1and bft=12A. In general, this approach allows to identify optimized parameters for a constitutive law, for a patient-specific heart geometry. The use of optimized parameters will lead to physiological simulation results of the heart biomechanics and is therefore an important step towards applying computational models in clinical practice.
Approaches for Solution-Processed Encapsulation of Printed Medical Wearable Devices
Authors: Chen Zehua , Gengenbach Ulrich , Koker Liane , Mansour Maher
Published: February 2021

Wearable medical devices offer a great opportunity to monitor human vital signs to improve healthcare. The use of printing technologies is a promising approach to fabricate the wearables. An encapsulation must be applied to achieve longterm stability and reliability of the printed wearables. In this paper, we discuss the encapsulation requirements of printed wearable medical devices. Different encapsulation approaches are illustrated by means of various examples. Thereby, the focus lies upon solution-processed encapsulation, including the compatible materials and printing technologies.
Modelling and prototyping of a microfluidic cartridge for extracting immune cells from small volume blood samples
Authors: Behrens Stephan , Sonntag Frank , Schmieder Florian
Published: February 2021

Within the human blood immune cells assume specific functions to modulate and control the human immune response. Consequently, they are used for the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune and hematologic diseases. Traceless Affinity Cell Selection Technology (Fab-TACS® technology) is a new method for selective isolation of specific immune cells from blood samples. Currently, the technology is used in a 60 mL syringe-like cartridge, which is operated by a control unit (Fabian®). Nevertheless, diagnostic applications require the reduction of the sample volume to several microliters. Therefore, we developed a cartridge for the purification of small blood volumes with the aid of suitable scaling and simulation methods. By implementing a multi domain physical systems model of the established cartridge we could simulate the separation process. Based on that a microfluidic cartridge was designed and several prototypes were manufactured. To operate the microfluidic cartridge a setup and software for fluidic control were created. Afterwards the prototype cartridge and the microfluidic control were used to isolate lymphocytes from a buffy coat. By flow cytometric analysis we could show that it is possible to isolate lymphocytes with a purity that is comparable to the established 60 mL syringe-like cartridge.
Novel dry electrode EEG headbands for home use: Comparing performance and comfort
Authors: Haueisen Jens , Fiedler Patrique , Bernhardt Anna , Gonçalves Ricardo , Fonseca Carlos
Published: February 2021

Monitoring brain activity at home using electroencephalography (EEG) is an increasing trend for both medical and non-medical applications. Gel-based electrodes are not suitable due to the gel application requiring extensive preparation and cleaning support for the patient or user. Dry electrodes can be applied without prior preparation by the patient or user. We investigate and compare two dry electrode headbands for EEG acquisition: a novel hybrid dual-textile headband comprising multipin and multiwave electrodes and a neoprene-based headband comprising hydrogel and spidershaped electrodes. We compare the headbands and electrodes in terms of electrode-skin impedance, comfort, electrode offset potential and EEG signal quality. We did not observe considerable differences in the power spectral density of EEG recordings. However, the hydrogel electrodes showed considerably increased impedances and offset potentials, limiting their compatibility with many EEG amplifiers. The hydrogel and spider-shaped electrodes required increased adduction, resulting in a lower wearing comfort throughout the application time compared to the novel headband comprising multipin and multiwave electrodes.
In situ impedance measurements on postmortem porcine brain
Authors: Poßner Lucas , Laukner Matthias , Wilhelmy Florian , Lindner Dirk , Pliquett Uwe , Petkovic Bojana , Ziolkowski Marek , Knösche Thomas R. , Weise Konstantin
Published: February 2021

The paper presents an experimental study where the distinctness of grey and white matter of an in situ postmortem porcine brain by impedance measurements is investigated. Experimental conditions that would allow to conduct the same experiment on in vivo human brain tissue are replicated.
Water uptake of various electrospun nonwovens
Authors: Wulf Katharina , Senz Volkmar , Eickner Thomas , Illner Sabine
Published: February 2021

In recent years, nanofiber based materials have emerged as especially interesting for several biomedical applications, regarding their high surface to volume ratio. Due to the superficial nano- and microstructuring and the different wettability compared to nonstructured surfaces, the water absorption is an important parameter with respect to the degradation stability, thermomechanic properties and drug release properties, depending on the type of polymer [1]. In this investigation, the water absorption of different non- and plasma modified biostable nanofiber nonwovens based on polyurethane, polyester and polyamide were analysed and compared. Also, the water absorption by specified water wetting, the contact angle and morphology changes were examined. The results show that the water uptake is highly dependent on the surface modification and the polymer composition itself and can therefore be partially changed.
Development of a limbal fixation mechanism for a minimally invasive implantable glaucoma microstent
Authors: Siewert Stefan , Großmann Swen , Brandt-Wunderlich Christoph , Dierke Ariane , Stiehm Michael , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Sahmel Olga , Kischkel Sabine , Schmidt Wolfram , Grabow Niels , Stahnke Thomas , Guthoff Rudolf
Published: February 2021

Glaucoma represents a chronic eye disease that becomes increasingly prevalent worldwide. Therapies are commonly based on the reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP). Implant devices for micro-invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) represent a promising therapy option in refractory cases but suffer from limitations in long term efficacy or from dislocation associated complications. Our approach of an innovative drug-eluting glaucoma microstent for MIGS was presented previously. Within the current work we developed concepts and prototypes of a mechanism for the fixation of our glaucoma microstent in the region of the corneal limbus. A tripod and a haptics design of the fixation mechanism were developed and manufactured. Semifinished products were tested with regard to dimensional stability and mechanical properties according to the standard ANSI Z80.27-2014. Considering the mechanical properties of ocular target tissues, a gelatin based in vitro model for the measurement of microstent retention force was developed. Retention force testing of microstent prototypes in vitro resulted in a proof of concept for the fixation mechanism. Future studies will focus on the use of smaller fixation fibers, for example commercially available suture material, and on an overall miniaturization of the fixation mechanism enabling the use of our applicator device with a 22G x 1½” cannula.
First results of computer-enhanced optical diagnosis of bladder cancer
Authors: Wittenberg T. , Hackner R. , Bocklitz T. , Krafft C. , Becker W. , Braun L. , Pohlmann P. , Miernik A. , Suarez-Ibarrola R. , Lemke M. N.
Published: February 2021

Bladder cancer is the sixth leading cancer cause worldwide. Non-muscle invasive tumors can be diagnosed and treated endoscopically. Based on biopsies alone, pathologists cannot determine the spatial organization of specimens, their relationship with each other, or their complete removal. To extend white light cystoscopy as the gold standard for bladder cancer detection, diagnosis and removal of small or flat lesions, new image-based technologies have been investigated. These include a stereo-cystoscope for improved orientation and navigation, computation of 2D and 3D panoramic images for extended visualization and documentation, as well as label-free fiber-based fluorescence-lifetime imaging (FLIM) and Raman-spectroscopy in combination with statistical data analysis. Combining all these technologies, cystoscopy can will be further enhanced to include new diagnostic possibilities.
A multispectral 3D-Endoscope for Cholesteatoma Removal
Authors: Wisotzky Eric L. , Rosenthal Jean-Claude , Hilsmann Anna , Eisert Peter , Uecker Florian C.
Published: February 2021

We present a stereo-multispectral endoscopic prototype using a filter-wheel to guide the removal of cholesteatoma tissue in the middle ear. An image-based method is used that combines multispectral tissue classification for the detection of tissue to be removed and 3Dreconstruction to determine its metric dimensions. The multispectral illumination used for tissue classification ranges from λ = 400 nm to λ = 500 nm with step-size of 20 nm, which results in six different narrow-band illumination modes. For classical RGB imaging and metric calculations, a broadband illumination mode is applied before and after the narrow-band illumination. The spectral information is augmented into the broadband mode using an overlay technique. The combination of multispectral imaging with stereoscopic 3D-reconstruction results in new valuable visualization of intraoperative data. This allows to generate a 3D-model of the patients anatomy highlighting the identified malicious tissue and compare the anatomical dimensions with pre-operative CT data.
Proof of Concept for Ozone-Based Disinfection of Heater Cooler Units
Authors: Markus Bongert , Jan Wüst , Justus Strauch , Dirk Buchwald
Published: February 2021

Heater Cooler Units (HCUs) are frequently used not only during heart surgery but also in ECMO therapy to regulate the blood temperature of patients. It is known from cardiac surgery that the water circuits of HCUs can be bacterially contaminated and under adverse conditions can lead to a nosocomial infection of the patient. The addition of chemical disinfectants to the water of HCUs is problematic. In addition, it is an increasingly significant cost factor due to the required material and personnel input. The aim of this research project is both the development of an automated device for disinfecting water in HCUs and proof of its effectiveness. The device is based on ozone, a substance with known antimicrobial properties. To prevent ozone from coming into contact with the HCU components, the water is irradiated with UV light (254nm). Two bypasses and ozone sensors guarantee a complete elimination of residual ozone. The effectiveness of the device was tested by series of experiments with the surrogate germ, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The device allows a wide range of ozone concentrations and exposure times to be selected. In previous test series, it has been shown both that a reduction of the bacterial count to drinking water quality can be achieved with a treatment time of only one hour, and that self-cleaning can be carried out effectively before clinical use, and in standby mode. Attention must be paid to the water quality in HCUs as a potential source of infection, regardless of where they are used. The "proof of concept" showed an excellent disinfection effect with simultaneous elimination of excess ozone to drinking water levels. The number of indicator bacteria in the water tank of the dummy HCU was reduced by approx. 98% after only 30 minutes.
Real World Experience with an Optimized Control Scheme for a Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Steingräber Robert , Kiesner Matthias
Published: February 2021

A closed-loop control software for the new mobile Berlin Heart EXCORR driving unit was optimized to balance usability, durability, pump wash out, blood stress and power consumption. The piston of the electro-pneumatic cylinder is moved on a pump-cannula-specific trajectory. A friction and a valve model are adapted online. Verification and real world data show constant flow, low power consumption and the adherence of all limits.
A novel approach for increasing the traceability of 3D printed medical products
Authors: Matvieieva Nataliia , Neupetsch Constanze , Oettel Markus , Makdani Varun , Drossel Welf- Guntram
Published: February 2021

According to the European Medical Device Directive (MDR (EU) 2017/745), medical products of all risk classes are obliged to be labelled with Unique Device Identification Codes (UDI). In order to meet the requirements of the MDR, a novel method of identification for additively manufactured metallic products was developed at the Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology (IWU). The method provides a product traceability within its production process and during the whole product lifespan, and also functions as a counterfeit protection. This paper shows the integration of a unique identification during an additive manufacturing process for a titanium part. The readout of the integrated identification was executed using ultrasonic and eddy current methods, as well as micro computed tomography. Obtained results are discussed in the paper.
Development of a realistic venepuncture phantom
Authors: Engers Marius , Stewart Kent W. , Liu Jan , Pott Peter P.
Published: February 2021

Venepuncture is one of the most common invasive procedures performed worldwide, however, complications still occur. Currently, commercial single layer silicone phantoms used for venepuncture training do not accurately imitate the geometry and mechanical properties seen in the various patient groups. This paper presents the development of a realistic artificial venepuncture phantom. Three multilayered tissue phantoms are developed simulating venepuncture sites of paediatric, adult and geriatric patients. Silicone materials of different stiffnesses were selected to imitate the epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous fat, muscle and superficial veins. Singleaxis indentation tests were carried out on silicone samples and the multi-layered phantom inserts to characterize the material properties. The measured Young's moduli for the artificial dermis, fat and muscle show sufficient agreement with corresponding literature values. However, characterization of the complete phantom inserts showed stiffnesses four times larger than prior in-vivo studies. Future studies will work on developing a more comparable in-vivo study.
DLP 3D printing of Dexamethasoneincorporated PEGDA-based photopolymers: compressive properties and drug release
Authors: Mau Robert , Reske Thomas , Eickner Thomas , Grabow Niels , Seitz Hermann
Published: February 2021

Photopolymerizing, high-resolution 3D printing methods such as Stereolithography (SLA) or Digital Light Processing (DLP) are very promising for the manufacturing of drug-incorporated, patient specific implants. However, a drug-load may be limited by adequately solubility of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in the photopolymer. Furthermore, a drug-load may affect the mechanical properties of the material negatively. Here, we investigate the DLP 3D printing of drugincorporated photopolymers. Polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA, Mn = 700 g/mol) is used as matrix polymer and Dexamethasone (DEX) is used for drug-loading (10 g/L and 20 g/L). Compressive properties, drug release and drug stability of 3D printed test samples were analyzed. DEX was found to be sparingly soluble in the PEGDA-based photopolymer. Not all drug particles can be dissolved at a concentration of 20 g/L and a slurry-like suspension is formed. Drug-incorporated photopolymers of 10 g/L (solution) and 20 g/L (suspension) were processed successfully via DLP. The higher the drug-load, the lower the compressive strength. Mechanical properties can be improved via a post-curing in a UV light curing box. Drug-incorporated 3D printed test samples show burst-release of DEX. The post-curing process does not affect drug release. DEX degrades in 3D-printed test samples significantly (~ 30 %) over a several days time period.
Accelerated Degradation of polymeric surgical suture materials
Authors: Reske Thomas , Eickner Thomas , Grabow Niels , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Siewert Stefan
Published: February 2021

The degradable polymer Polydioxanone (PDO) is used for medical implants since 1981. Manufacturers state a degradation timeframe of <180 days or an absorption duration of 182-238 days [1, 2]. Aim of this study was to find in vitro-conditions to degrade PDO films within four weeks. Therefore the degradation of PDO was performed in accelerated conditions in tempered alkaline glycine NaOH buffer. Molecular weight and mass loss were studied. PDO results were compared with poly lactic-co-glycolic acid P(LLA-co-GA).
Femoral Shape and Size Variability from segmented CT datasets for patient-specific THA planning
Authors: Fleischmann Christopher , Leher Irina , Sesselmann Stefan , Scherb David , Wolf Alexander , Miehling Jörg , Wartzack Sandro
Published: February 2021

Biomechanical functionality of artificial hips strongly correlates with quality of life of patients after total hip arthroplasty. As the numbers of total hip arthroplasty are growing due to increasing life expectancy, biomechanical research is of utmost importance to improve the implants used and the operative procedures applied. Multibody simulation is used to predict forces and moments inside the human body. Generic scaling is usually performed to adapt the human models used in multibody simulation to individual patients. However, since the shape and size of the bones can vary considerably, this type of scaling often is not sufficient. In this work various CT datasets were used to quantify differences of individual femoral shapes, especially with regard to important biomechanical hip parameters, such as the CCD angle or the femoral offset. Our results prove that multibody simulations should be modeled more patientspecific to be able to calculate articular forces and moments more precisely, and thus, to improve surgical planning.
Swipe up to smoke less cigarettes! Introducing a mobile Approach-Avoidance Task Application to fight Smoking
Authors: Eiler Tanja Joan , Haßler Benjamin , Grünewald Armin , Machulska Alla , Klucken Tim , Jahn Katharina , Niehaves Björn , Gethmann Carl Friedrich , Brück Rainer
Published: February 2021

Automatic tendencies to approach addictionrelated stimuli have been linked to the development and maintenance of harmful drug use behavior. Recent studies have shown that these automatic approaches can be directly addressed and modified by cognitive bias modification (CBM). However, the training and treatment effects are rather small and compliance could be impaired by time-consuming, multiple laboratory training sessions. Here we present a mobile variant of the Approach-Avoidance Task (app-AAT), which is evaluated by a feasibility study. The app-AAT is designed to improve the efficiency of CBM training by allowing smokers to access the training at any time, and by offering the option to track consumed cigarettes. Our first run with eight participants showed that the app was rated very positively with 4.2 out of 5 points (engagement: 3.7, functionality: 4.5, aesthetics: 4.4) by using the german Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS-G).
Workflow and Human-Centered Risk Analysis for Novel Mechatronic Rescue Aids I.
Authors: Drobinsky Sergey , Verjans Mark , Schleer Philipp , Kolk Benedikt , Bensiek Henrike , Radermacher Klaus , Janß Armin
Published: February 2021

Paramedics face rising numbers of deployments every year. As obstacles like stairs occur often, paramedics must frequently manually carry patients and are thereby exposed to loads multitudes higher than recommended. This creates the need for patient transport aids (PTA), which can physically support paramedics in a wide variety of transport situations, without slowing down the transport. In this paper a workflow analysis for transport missions in an urban context and basic tasks for PTAs are presented. Subsequently, the high-level task modelling and human-centered risk analysis according to the HiFEM method are presented for the use case of a patient transport over stairs with a passive PTA, like a rescue chair, and an active PTA like the novel SEBARES prototype. The analysis shows that conventional PTA’s have a simple linear use process, however, impose excessive physical workloads, which cause risks like the paramedic or the PTA falling down the stairs. Contrary, active PTA’s reduce physical workloads, however, introduce additional concurrent steps, like identifying and correcting misalignments, which create further risks. In order to mitigate risks with active, stair climbing PTAs either new kinematic designs or intelligent assistance functions, like automatic stair detection, are necessary.
Nurses’ attitudes towards occupational transformation processes brought about by digital care technologies
Authors: Schlicht Larissa , Wendsche Johannes , Lehrke Liliann , Melzer Marlen , Rösler Ulrike
Published: February 2021

Background. Digital technologies increasingly shape today’s world of work. This not only affects sectors such as knowledge work and the automotive industry, but also the care sector. On the one hand, many nurses today use technologies supporting some selected and rather peripheral nursing tasks (e.g., electronic documentation). However, on the other hand, more comprehensive and additionally proximal care-related task devices (e.g., diagnostics via telecare) seem to be used less often. From a psychological perspective, attitudes towards technology are an important antecedent of user behaviour. Therefore, in two studies we aimed to examine if nurses’ attitudes towards four digital technology fields (i.e., electronic documentation ED, ambient assisted living AAL, telecare application and robotics) are differing in relation to the type of task substitution, how technology appraisal and knowledge shape these attitudes, and how attitudes predict user behaviour. Method. We conducted two cross-sectional survey studies with German nurses (Study 1: N = 148, Study 2: N = 252) with well-established scales (i.e., general and work-related positive and negative attitudes towards technologies, ease of use, usability, knowledge, and technology use). Results. We found that it is important to consider positive and negative attitudes towards technology distinctively as intercorrelations were only moderately negative. As expected, we found in both studies that nurses reported stronger positive and less negative attitudes towards technologies assumed to be substituting more specific and peripheral (e.g., ED) than comprehensive and proximal care tasks (e.g., robotics). Moreover, we found that two types of technology appraisal (ease of use and usability) both positively correlated with positive attitudes towards all four technology fields, whereas patterns were more inconsistent and additionally influenced by technology knowledge when predicting negative attitudes. Although inconsistently across both studies and the considered technologies, in general, technology users reported more positive and less negative attitudes than non-users. Conclusion. If technology developers and nursing facility managers want to help nurses successfully adopting new technologies in their work routines, nurses’ technology appraisal and technology attitudes have to be considered already in the pre-development phase. Our study results show that nurses report different attitudes towards the four digital technology fields considered here in relation to the levels and types of task-substitution. More specifically, if core carerelated work-tasks (e.g., direct care) are not substituted, nurses report stronger positive and less negative attitudes towards the supporting technologies and higher user behaviour.
Meijer and carbon management
Authors: Britton Christina , Petrovskis Erik
Published: February 2021

Meijer is a family-owned retailer in the Midwest who pioneered the one-stop-shopping concept. This 85-year-old company is committed to energy, refrigerant, and logistics management to reduce the company’s carbon footprint intensity, not only because it makes business sense, but because it is the right thing to do. Meijer operates 248 superstores and grocery stores in six states with associated greenhouse gas emissions from lighting, heating, cooling, refrigeration, and logistics. Through a combination of focused engineering, and proactive lifecycle management throughout its operations, Meijer has been able to reduce the carbon intensity of its operations as the company continues to grow. Meijer’s dedicated energy and engineering team is well on the way to reducing electricity use in stores by 20% by 2020, based on a 2010 baseline. Implementing energy efficiency projects to meet this goal, along with proactive management of refrigerant systems, has enabled this team to continue to drive down greenhouse gas emissions intensity in the retail area. Meijer’s distribution and logistics teams are also contributing to this reduction through replacement of older tractor trailers with clean diesel and hybrid models in addition to innovations in logistics planning to minimize truck miles traveled. Looking to the future, Meijer sees the next frontier of decarbonizing its operations in proactive lifecycle management, technology, and systems innovation.
First observation of hemoglobin G-Norfolk in the Turkish population
Authors: Ünal Hülya , Atay Aysenur , Yücel Muammer , Narin Figen , Ceylaner Serdar , Canatan Duran
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Hemoglobinopathies are inherited transition blood diseases associated with globin chains of the hemoglobin. However many mutations have been defined, there may be many of them not defined yet. We here report the first case of those mutations, named Hb G-Norfolk in Turkey.

Case presentation

A 15 years-old male patient with erythrocytosis was referred to our laboratory for the evaluation of hemoglobinopathy. In chromatographic analysis, an unidentified peak was observed. A similar identification for variant Hb could not be obtained from High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analyzer’s data library. No definitive diagnosis could also be made by different analyzer. Family screening and molecular genetic DNA sequence analysis were carried out.

Conclusions

Although there were not found any beta gene mutation of neither the patient nor his family, analyses of alpha genes A1 and A2 were performed and abnormal hemoglobines were detected for all of them. This change in the HbA2 gene was at codon85 GAC>AAC (Asp>Asn) in the heterozygous state, known as Hb G-Norfolk [HbA2:c256G>A p.Asp85Asn] based on HbVar database. Abnormal Hb bands detected by HPLC with clinical findings such as erythrocytosis or cyanosis should be investigated by sequence analysis to corroborate alpha and/or beta-globin gene mutations for avoiding misdiagnosis and misinterpretation.
A Neo-Assyrian Sale Contract from the Province of the Chief Cupbearer (rab-šāqê) kept at the Hasankeyf Museum (Batman)
Authors: Toptaş Koray , Akyüz Faruk
Published: February 2021

This Neo-Assyrian conveyance document found near Hasankeyf records the sale of fields and orchards on the mountain of the city of Ilḫina. The tablet was drawn up in the province of the chief cupbearer. Unusually, the document does not have an eponym date, but is instead dated with the phrase “9th year of the chief cupbearer Lâbaši”. The tablet may belong to the final stage of the Neo-Assyrian period.
Fenomenología de la vejez y el cuerpo como anclaje al tiempo: “Se debe ser viejo para reconocer lo breve que es la vida”
Authors: Aurenque Diana
Published: February 2021

La vejez constituye una de las etapas de la vida humana menos estudiada de forma sistemática por la filosofía. Recién en los últimos años, han aparecido más trabajos en torno a la vejez, debido probablemente a los nuevos desafíos éticos, sociales, económicos y políticos que trae consigo el envejecimiento acelerado de la población mundial. ¿A qué se debe que la vejez no haya tomado un mayor protagonismo en la historia de la filosofía? A lo largo de este trabajo mostraré que la marginalidad que han tenido las reflexiones filosóficas acerca de la vejez, no se debe al mero descuido de los cultores de la disciplina, sino que ello parece más bien fundarse en la naturaleza misma -de suyo angustiosa- del fenómeno de la vejez. Como veremos, el envejecimiento constituye un fenómeno que, si bien puede expresarse en distintas especies naturales humanas y no-humanas, éste tiene un impacto particularmente agobiante en nuestravida a causa de nuestra conciencia temporal y espacial. La contribución intenta abordar estas temáticas con el fin de reactivar la productiva e histórica relación que existe entre filosofía y medicina.
Juárez y Maximiliano: cruces entre la literatura y el cine, 1924-1933
Authors: Morales Zea María del Sol
Published: February 2021

A través del análisis comparado y la teoría de la recepción se analizan dos obras, Juarez und Maximilian, drama escrito en Viena por Franz Werfel; y “Juárez y Maximiliano” película dirigida por Miguel contreras Torres en México. Aunque se trata de obras que reflejan el contexto en el que se desarrollaron sus autores tienen similitudes profundas, por lo que su análisis nos permite adentrarnos a las líneas de pensamiento presentes en la primera mitad del siglo XX. Al estudiar la recepción de estas obras podemos entrever los fines que sus autores prefiguraron en el momento de su elaboración, así como la aceptación o rechazo que recibieron. Finalmente, el análisis permite reconocer factores en los procesos de consolidación que se vivieron en el periodo respecto a la concepción del nacionalismo, la identidad nacional y la historia patria.
Lecturas foucaultianas del liberalismo y el neoliberalismo: entre una arqueo-genealogía de las formas del gobierno contemporáneo y la historia de la gubernamentalidad
Authors: Raffin Marcelo
Published: February 2021

Este artículo pretende analizar las líneas generales de los desarrollos que Michel Foucault propone sobre el liberalismo y el neoliberalismo en términos de una arqueo-genealogía de las formas del gobierno contemporáneo y de la historia de la gubernamentalidad, lo que le permitirá afirmar que el liberalismo y el neoliberalismo constituyen las formas ontológico-políticas extremas de la gubernamentalidad contemporánea. En consecuencia, este artículo tiene como objetivos dar un cuadro de situación de las categorías y las herramientas que Foucault elaboró y propuso sobre estas problemáticas, señalar los “puntos ciegos” de ese análisis y destacar la potencialidad de esos aportes para el trabajo de diagnóstico y la interacción con nuestra actualidad.
Habermas y el neoliberalismo
Authors: Ipar Ezequiel
Published: February 2021

La teoría de Habermas no se ocupó directamente del neoliberalismo, pero cuando se analiza su obra se percibe que muchos de los conceptos de este gran “marxista académico” han estado dirigidos a estudiar (y combatir) los efectos duraderos de las transformaciones neoliberales. Desde el punto de vista de la crítica al neoliberalismo, su ética del discurso y su teoría de la democracia pueden ser consideradas como un intento por abrir el horizonte normativo desde el cual confrontar contra la apropiación instrumental e individualista de las instituciones de la libertad y la democracia modernas. Esta reconstrucción en el ámbito de una normatividad todavía posible para nuestras sociedades sirve de contrapeso y permite estudiar los modos en los que el neoliberalismo se sobrepone a sus crisis y enfrenta a sus críticos. Esta reconstrucción en el ámbito de una normatividad todavía posible para nuestras sociedades sirve de contrapeso y permite estudiar los modos en los que el neoliberalismo se sobrepone a sus crisis y enfrenta a sus críticos. La curiosa existencia-zombi de la política neoliberal, su supervivencia a pesar de sus contrastables efectos destructivos y depredadores, la dificultad para llevar a la práctica verdaderas alternativas democráticas a ese neoliberalismo, todos estos problemas forman parte de la teoría crítica en la que Habermas persevera desde hace más de cuarenta años. En este extenso recorrido, Habermas ha dejado el rastro de una verdadera teoría del neoliberalismo contemporáneo que aquí nos proponemos revisar de una manera esquemática y provisoria.
Suction Bucket Foundations under Cyclic Tensile Loading—Physical and Numerical Modeling
Authors: Gütz P. , Achmus M.
Published: February 2021

Although suction buckets are believed to be a promising alternative for multipod foundations of offshore wind turbines, the economic and ecological advantages are still limited because of a lack of knowledge regarding the tensile bearing behavior. Major uncertainties exist in terms of the response under cyclic loading and the assessment of the partially drained loading condition, where negative differential pressure beneath the suction bucket’s lid contributes to the total tensile resistance. This article presents findings from 1-g model tests of suction buckets in sand subjected to various cyclic tensile loads. The suction bucket was installed via negative differential pressure (suction). The results show a strong effect of the applied load magnitude on the evolution of displacement, plug heave, and suction induced. Greater displacement accumulation is observed for the smaller considered frequency. Monotonic tests with varying displacement rates supplement the cyclic tests and serve for the verification of a hydraulic-mechanic coupled finite element model, which is afterward utilized for the back-calculation of cyclic model tests. Although a rather simple elasto-plastic material law was used for the sand, good agreement was found, indicating that the bearing behavior is mainly governed by the hydraulic conditions and only subordinately by the soil mechanics.
Performance of the Tensiometer Method for the Determination of Soil-Water Retention Curves in Various Soils
Authors: le Roux Paul Francois , Jacobsz Schalk Willem
Published: February 2021

The soil-water retention curve (SWRC) describes the relationship between the soil matric suction and the water content of an unsaturated soil. It is an essential tool in geotechnical engineering and agriculture and is, for example, used in the analysis of unsaturated soil conditions such as those found in tailings dams and in analyzing the water retention capacity of agricultural land. Conventional methods used to obtain the SWRC are laborious and often rely on empirically derived equations to describe the curve. These test procedures can take weeks to complete and usually rely on indirect methods of measuring suction. Recent advances in the development of affordable high-capacity tensiometers (HCTs), the only devices capable of producing a direct and continuous measurement of high matric suctions, enable the introduction of the tensiometer method for the rapid determination of continuous SWRCs. The method requires an HCT, a digital laboratory balance, and a means of sample volume measurement if volume changes are relevant. The method involves continuously monitoring the mass and matric suctions generated in a naturally desaturating soil sample. The method has thus far seen limited implementation owing to the need for measuring specimen volume change to describe the hydraulic and volumetric behavior fully. The performance of the tensiometer method was investigated by determining SWRCs of five different soil types and then comparing them to the SWRCs determined from the filter paper method. A novel method, based on photogrammetry, was adopted for volume change measurement to produce SWRCs for soils that undergo shrinkage during drying. Excellent agreement between the methods was found for both the nonplastic soils and plastic soils tested.
Ian Alexander McLaren (1931-2020) – A life in biology
Authors: McLaren Andrew , McLaren Jamie , McLaren Mary , Mills Eric
Published: February 2021

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Decision on Exemptions for Educational Services Provided by the University under the New Legal Regulation
Authors: Dańczak Paweł
Published: February 2021

Higher education in Poland has been constantly reformed for over a decade so that Polish universities can effectively compete with foreign counterparts, and their graduates are attractive to employers. The possibility of learning may depend on paying the appropriate fees. This can put a heavy burden on the student’s budget, but the student may apply for an exemption from these fees under the conditions set by the university. Existing regulations were imprecise in this respect, which is why the adoption of the new law gave the opportunity to solve many related problems. One of the main issues requiring legislative intervention was to clarify what fees universities can charge their students and in what form they should decide to exclude these fees. This goal has only been partially achieved. The catalogue of fees has been defined, but it has not been determined whether the exemption from the obligation to pay them should be made by an administrative decision or any other act of the university body. The analysis of the new provisions leads to the conclusion that the principle should be the adoption of an administrative decision granting exemption from fees for educational services, whereas in the case of other fees referred to in art. 79 § 2 p.w.sz.n., the appropriate decision should be in a different form.
The Status of an Academic Teacher as a Public Officer. Comments in the Context of the Law on Higher Education and Science
Authors: Tabaszewski Robert
Published: February 2021

The subject of this article is the legal status of an academic teacher as a person discharging a public function under the applicable Law on Higher Education and Science of 20 July 2018. It examines whether and to what extent the current regulation has affected the sphere of rights and obligations of an academic teacher who is a public official in special situations. In particular, the legal status of academic teachers and the status of public school teachers are compared. The author shows that the Law on Higher Education and Science does not contain a provision explicitly granting an academic teacher the status of a person performing a public function. This status is recognised in the rulings of common and administrative courts. Lawyers also recognise that an academic teacher, as a person employed at a university, that is, a unit with public funds, performs public functions. The article also describes the degree of legal responsibility of an academic teacher towards other entities.
COVID-19 and Final (State) Examination: Strategies of International and Russian Universities
Authors: Puchkov Evgenii , Knyaginina Nadezhda , Novoselov Ivan , Jankiewicz Szymon
Published: February 2021

COVID-19 pandemic has changed the functioning of all levels of education systems. Schools and universities had to quickly adapt and change their procedures according to conditions created by the epidemic. Long perceived as additional and backup solutions, different distance learning technologies, particularly internet-based, became the main solution for the continuation of education on all levels. Several issues have stood out particularly with this seismic change – one of those is the issue of final examinations in universities. This issue is especially crucial in Russia, where the successful passing of a state final examination, which combines majority of the topics from the study program, is a prerequisite for graduation. This paper aims to analyze and present different strategies which were used for final university examinations in different countries and universities of the world and compare it with the Russian practices.
Factors of Changes in Livelihood Choices for Generation Z and Impact on Farmer’s Families
Authors: Oktav Nugraha Saka Mahardika , Priyanto Agustinus Sugeng , Alimi Moh Yasir
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study is to determine the causes and effects of changes livelihood choices for generation Z children and the impact of social changes in farmer families in Desa Karangmalang. This research used qualitative with the form of case studies. The data is collected through observation, interviews, and documents. The collected data will be analyzed using qualitative analysis, namely by describing the results of research in the form of words or sentences so that the researchers describe in depth the results of the research in accordance with the actual conditions that occurred in the field. The research targets were generation Z children and farmer families. The results showed that the factors of changes in livelihood choices was motivated by the knowledge of generation Z children about farmers, the economic value of the farming family, and the social status of the farmer families for generation Z children. These factors have influenced the social changes of generation Z children to choose livelihoods other than farmers.
Mathematics Creative Thinking Skills in Problem-Based Learning Model Reviewed from Learners’ Curiosity and Gender
Authors: Arifin Mustofa , Suyitno Hardi , Dewi (Nino Adhi) Nuriana Rachmani
Published: February 2021

Creative thinking skills are important to be trained in mathematics learning because solving math problems cannot be separated from these skills. This research described learners’ mathematics creative thinking skills reviewed by curiosity and gender. This research is sequential explanatory research with a mixed methods with quantitative and qualitative approaches. Thirty-five learners of the 10th graders learning group were given a curiosity test to discover their curiosity types. They were stimulated by problem-based learning to develop their mathematics creative thinking skills. The findings showed that learners had various mathematics, creative thinking skills. They were proven by epistemic, perceptual curiosity, and perceptual curiosity diverse learners for both males and females. They were creative. The male learners with epistemic curiosity diverse categories were also creative while the female was very creative. Based on this research, the mathematical creative thinking ability of female gender students with the epistemic curiosity type is more dominant than perceptual curiosity.
The Effectiveness of Storytelling and Roleplaying Media in Enhancing Early Childhood Empathy
Authors: Suryani Ratna , Pranoto Sugiyo , Astuti Budi
Published: February 2021

Kindergarten children’s still have difficulty to work in a team. Some of them still focus on their own activities without regard to their friends. This shows that there are deficiencies in the learning process so that children empathy does not yet develop. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of storytelling and roleplaying media in increasing empathy skills of kindergarten students. The research method was a quasi-experimental design. The subject was kindergarten students who were within the age range of 5-6 in Genuk district in which samples were 31 students as the experimental class and 21 students as the control class. The data analysis technique used descriptive analysis, paired t-test, and independent t-test. The results showed that the storytelling and roleplaying media could significantly increase empathy of early childhood (AUD), the average score of AUD social empathy of the experimental class was higher than that of the control class and 32.46% of AUD social empathy in the experimental class was in the Developing as Expected (BSH). Therefore, it could be concluded that the application of storytelling and roleplaying method was effective in increasing social empathy skills compared to the application of storytelling media only.