bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RISK MANAGEMENT AND IT'S FINANCIAL BENEFITS NET
Authors: Ivanović Zoran , Ivanović Vanja
Published: June 2021

The aim of this article was to attract attention on the importance of risk management. Here we are dealing with the definition of the risk as something that happens in the future but cannot be predicted exactly today because there is uncertainty, further more we are giving the highligts on risk decisions and balancing risk against reward. We are also giving the guidelines concerning identification and categorization of risk and some types of risk measurement.
NET CURRENT ASSETS IN FEASIBILITY STUDIES
Authors: Ivanović Vanja , Mujačević Elvis
Published: June 2021

Net current assets consist primarily of cash, marketable securities, receivables and inventory. The balances in these accounts can be highly volatile as they respond quickly to changes in the firm’s operating environment. Medium-term planning and immediate reactions to changes in forecasts and conditions are required for effective management of the net current assets. Net current assets management is the functional area of finance that covers all the current accounts of the firm. It is concerned with the adequacy of current assets as well as the level of risk posed by current liabilities. We can say that net current assets management is a discipline that seeks proper policies for managing current assets and liabilities and practical techniques for maximizing the benefits.
FRENCH TERMINOLOGICAL DICTIONARIES ON THE INTERNET
Authors: Škunca Jadranka
Published: June 2021

Rapid development of technology and globalisation as a result of it, have already changed our lives. This is, however, just the beginning of what is to happen in communication in the years to come. In French language of tourism and hospitality management, among others, there are many enological and gastronomic terms. The exact definitions and explanations of those terms are given in terminological, specialised, i.e. enological/ gastronomic dictionaries. Today the development of communication and information technologies enable us quickly find practically every information on the Internet, including the explanations of terms included in electronic dictionaries displayed on the Internet. The number of those dictionaries increases every day. The article shows the results of our research on monolingual, bilingual and multilingual enological and gastronomic French dictionaries on the Internet.
INTERACTION BETWEEN ACCOUNTING AND QUALITY MANAGEMENT
Authors: Peršić Milena , Drljača Miroslav
Published: June 2021

Quality costs represent financial result of management decision in system of total quality management. The assignment to recognize these costs in management information system and evaluate them belongs to the accounting. Financial reporting presented to management, is oriented to the quality improvement, or on the present consequences of decisions on keeping the same quality level. For creating methodological basis of including these costs, the accounting department should ensure relevant information from the surrounding (outer aspects), especially from the process and activities in the business system (inner aspects). Recognizing the interests and needs of quality management as well as ISO standards, the catalogue on quality costs is being created in accordance with information requests. Therefore, the certification on ISO standards requires reorganization of accounting information system, which has to ensure relevant information for managing costs, which is the subject to this research.
REAL AND NOMINAL GDP GROWTH DYNAMICS IN POLAND IN THE YEARS 1995-2001
Authors: Misiak Tomasz
Published: June 2021

The present work states the analysis as well as opinion of dynamics of Gross Domestic Product real and nominal for Poland. The special equations of movement to analysis of dynamics were applied. The empirical data being acknowledged as reliable originate from statistical year-books of the Polish central statistical office GUS form the years 1995 - 2002, the websites of Eurostat and own calculations as well. The values of the Gross Domestic Product of the countries under research are expressed in US dollars so that the analysis of them is easier and they can be compared regarding time and space.
A BREAKDOWN OF THE DECISION PROCESS APPLIED BY MANAGERS IN THE HOTEL INDUSTRY OF ISTRIA AND THE COAST
Authors: Brajdić Igor
Published: June 2021

In theory, the decision process evolves through stringently established stages and sub-stages. If managers were placed in a situation requiring them to view their problems in this context, it would be interesting to observe their interpretations of the individual stages of the decision process with regard to real-life problem situations. To this end, an empirical study was conducted to examine the various stages o f decision-making in actual problem situations applied by managers in the hotel industries of ¡stria and the Coastal region. The majority of managers showed an interest in the study, and interview were conducted to determine the characteristics of managerial decision-making. The study has revealed that only to modest degree do managers solve problems in the proper manner i.e. according to the stages prescribed by the theory of decision-making.
INTERACTION OF PERSONALITY AND INTERPERSONAL RELATIONS
Authors: Mihailović Dobrivoje , Lojić Ranko
Published: June 2021

The nature of interaction between the personality phenomenon and the interpersonal relations phenomenon is a very complex and dynamic one. Which of these two phenomena, interwoven set of personality or interpersonal relations, will be more dynamic and deciding in shaping the other is difficult to estimate. Specificity of these interactions is not sufficiently researched.
INCREMENTO DE NITRÓGENO EN Thalassia testudinum POR EL APORTE DE NITRÓGENO DISUELTO INORGÁNICO DE AGUAS RESIDUALES DURANTE PRECIPITACIONES EXTRAORDINARIAS
Authors: Anguas Cabrera Dilian , Ortiz Hernández María Concepción , Camacho Cruz Karla , Sánchez González Alberto
Published: June 2021

Las lagunas de arrecife del Caribe mexicano son ecosistemas oligotróficos, donde las descargas de agua residuales (DAR) asociadas a la actividad turística, en algunos casos son vertidas a los acuíferos subterráneos, suministrando nitrógeno inorgánico disuelto (NID) a las mismas. El aporte de NID puede ser exacerbado en años con precipitación extraordinaria (2013 con > 2500 mm) en el Caribe mexicano. Por su parte, el pasto marino Thalassia testudinum se caracteriza por un contenido de nitrógeno < 2 % en peso seco. Si el flujo de NID se incrementa debido a precipitaciones excepcionales, es de esperar que el contenido de nitrógeno en T. testudinum aumente con respecto a la precipitación promedio histórica (1200 mm) de los últimos 30 años. En el presente trabajo se cuantificó el contenido de nitrógeno en T. testudinum mediante un analizador elemental, para determinar cambios asociados con las DAR durante la época seca y lluviosa entre los años 2010 a 2016 en la Bahía de Akumal. En los años de 2010, 2012, 2015 y 2016 el contenido de nitrógeno fue similar entre épocas y en los años 2013 y 2014 fue mayor en la época de lluvias con respecto a la época seca. Esto sugiere que, en periodos de precipitaciones extraordinarias el flujo de NID a las lagunas costeras del Caribe incrementa haciendo disponible este nitrógeno para T. testudinum.
Edu VR: Design and Implementation of Virtual Classroom Environment in VR for Remote Learning
Authors: K V Karan , B Yashwanth Krishnan , R Ranjana , T Subha
Published: June 2021

Due to the unanticipated, forced migration of classroom activities to a fully remote format because of the coronavirus pandemic, there is a critical need for progress in the online education system. Not only that, but online education is the way of the future, and its infrastructure must be enhanced for teaching and learning to be effective. Engaging the students and enhancing their focus is one of the major concerns in the current video calling-based system. In this research, we propose a VR and AR-based virtual classroom environment system called "Edu VR" which encourages students to learn with a high level of involvement and attentiveness. We have divided the system into 2 distinct categories. one amongst which incorporates the virtual reality classroom, wherever the students can have a similar feel of actual school with peer-to-peer-based interactions and student-to-teacher interactions with Unity3D. We are able to conjointly deploy AR models with Vuforia, which permits the teachers to take classes more efficiently with student’s engagement. The other category involves the AI-based classroom assessment system, which enables teachers to produce assessments, which in turn are proctored by Artificial Intelligence. The results are automatically sent to the student within a short period, with the assistance of text similarity analysis for evaluating the answer scripts with Machine learning. This approach solves the drawbacks of video call-based systems with enhanced focus and engagement.
Current Knowledge on the Background, Pathophysiology, and Treatment of Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia – Literature Review.
Authors: Hutny Michał Jan , Hofman Jagoda Maria , Klimkowicz-Mrowiec Aleksandra , Gorzkowska Agnieszka
Published: June 2021

Levodopa remains the primary drug for controlling motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease through the whole course, but over time complications develop in the form of dyskinesias, which gradually become more frequent and severe. These abnormal, involuntary, hyperkinetic movements are mostly characteristic of the ON phase and reflect an excess of exogenous levodopa. They may also occur during OFF phase, or in both phases. Over the past 10 years, the issue of levodopa-induced dyskinesia has been the subject of research into both the substrate of this pathology and potential remedial strategies. The purpose of the present study was to review the results of recent research on the background and treatment of dyskinesia. To this end, databases were reviewed using a search strategy that included both relevant keywords related to the topic and appropriate filters to limit results to English-language literature published since 2010. Based on the selected papers, the current state of knowledge on morphological, functional, genetic, and clinical features of levodopa-induced dyskinesia, as well as pharmacological, genetic treatment and other therapies such as deep brain stimulation are described.
Hydrochloric Acid Modification and Lead Removal Studies on Naturally Occurring Zeolites from Nevada, New Mexico, and Arizona.
Authors: Huntley Garven M , Luck Rudy Lin , Mullins Michael E , Newberry Nick K
Published: June 2021

Four naturally occurring zeolites AZLB-Ca and AZLB-Na (Bowie, Arizona), NM-Ca (Winston, New Mexico), and NV-Na (Ash Meadows, Nevada) were studied to evaluate structural modifications after treatment with HCl acid. AZLB-Ca and AZLB-Na are chabazite-like species and become amorphous when boiled in concentrated HCl acid as confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction. In contrast, NM-Ca and NV-Na which are clinoptilolite-like species withstood boiling in concentrated HCl acid. This treatment removes calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, aluminum, and iron atoms or ions from the framework while leaving the silicon framework intact as confirmed via X-ray fluorescence and diffraction. SEM images on calcined and HCl treated NV-Na were obtained. BET surface area analysis confirmed an increase in surface area for the two zeolites after treatment, NM-Ca (20.0(1) to 111(4) m2/g) and NV-Na (19.0(4) to 158(7) m2/g). 29Si and 27Al MAS NMR were performed on the natural and treated NV-Na zeolite and the data for the natural NV-Na zeolite suggested a Si:Al ratio of 4.33 similar to that determined by X-Ray fluorescence of 4.55. Removal of lead ions from solution decreased from the native (NM-Ca, 0.27(14), NV-Na, 1.50(17) meq/g) compared to the modified zeolites (30 min HCl treated NM-Ca 0.06(9) and NV-Na, 0.41(23) meq/g) and also decreased upon K+ ion pretreatment in the HCl modified zeolites.
What are University Professors’ Motivations? A Realistic Approach to Self-perception of Spanish University Professors’ Professional Development
Authors: Espejo-Antúnez Luis , Corrales-Serrano Mario , Zamora-Polo Francisco , González-Velasco Miguel , Cardero-Durán Maria de los Ángeles
Published: June 2021

Background: The university must take on the challenges that arise at all levels. Within this mechanism, university professors play an important role as facilitators of knowledge. Aim: To analyse the motivations that influence the professional performance of Spanish university professors. Methods: 102 university professors from 9 Spanish public universities participated in the study. [Male: 54 (52.9%); Female: 48 (47.1%)]. A questionnaire of 22 closed-ended Likert-type questions was designed, scoring from 0-10 (do not agree at all, strongly agree). Results: The questionnaire, finally composed of 17 items, showed good internal consistency. (Cronbach's alpha=0.858). The validity analysis showed a value of 0.822 (>0.5) ) in the sample adequacy measure KMO (Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin) and Bartlett's sphericity test (p<0.0001). The exploratory factor analysis showed a clustering in 4 factors (2 for internal goods and 2 for external goods), explaining 64.33% of the total variance. Comparisons between each factor scores by gender (male and female) showed differences statistically significant by gender for factor F1 (higher for females) and F2 (higher for males). Finally, Q1 and Q13 showed a statistically significant correlation (p≤0.05) with years of teaching experience. Conclusions: The motivations of Spanish university professors seem to be associated with the age and gender of the teacher.
Transition Modeling for Low Pressure Turbines Using Computational Fluid Dynamics Driven Machine Learning
Authors: Akolekar Harshal D. , Waschkowski Fabian , Zhao Yaomin , Pacciani Roberto , Sandberg Richard D.
Published: June 2021

Existing Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes based transition models do not accurately predict separation induced transition for low pressure turbines. Therefore, in this study, a novel framework based on computational fluids dynamics driven machine learning coupled with multi-expression and multi-objective optimization is explored to develop models which can improve the transition prediction for the T106A low pressure turbine at an isentropic exit Reynolds number of Re2is=100,000. Model formulations are proposed for the transfer and laminar eddy viscosity terms of the laminar kinetic energy transition model using seven non-dimensional pi groups. The multi-objective optimization approach makes use of cost functions based on the suction-side wall-shear stress and the pressure coefficient. A family of solutions is thus developed, whose performance is assessed using Pareto analysis and in terms of physical characteristics of separated-flow transition. Two models are found which bring the wall-shear stress profile in the separated region at least two times closer to the reference high-fidelity data than the baseline transition model. As these models are able to accurately predict the flow coming off the blade trailing edge, they are also able to significantly enhance the wake-mixing prediction over the baseline model.
Beyond the Usual Suspects: Physiological Roles of the Arabidopsis Amidase Signature (AS) Superfamily Members in Plant Growth Processes and Stress Responses
Authors: Moya-Cuevas José , Pérez-Alonso Marta-Marina , Ortiz-García Paloma , Pollmann Stephan
Published: June 2021

The evolutionary success of land plants largely relies on their ability to cope with constant environmental fluctuations, which negatively impact their reproductive fitness and trigger adaptational responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. In this challenging scenario, comprehensive research efforts so far aimed at depicting the roles of well-known phytohormones, mainly auxins, along with brassinosteroids, jasmonates, and abscisic acid, although the signaling networks coordinating the crosstalk among them remains vaguely understood. Accordingly, this review focuses on the Arabidopsis Amidase Signature (AS) superfamily members, highlighting the hitherto relatively underappreciated functions of AMIDASE1 (AMI1) and FATTY ACID AMIDE HYDROLASE (FAAH), as crucial coordinators of the growth-defense response trade-off by modulating auxin and ABA homeostasis.
İbn Sînâ’da Sıddıkîn Delili: Tanrı Kanıtlaması
Authors: YİĞİT Fevzi
Published: June 2021

Bu çalışmada İbn Sînâ’nın Tanrı ispatlaması konu edinilmiştir. İbn Sînâ, Zorunlu Varlık’tan Tanrı’ya, Tanrı’dan da âleme ulaşarak verdiği hükme “sıddıkların hükmü” adını verir. Konuyla ilgili diğer çalışmalardan farklı olarak bu çalışmada aklın ve vehmin rol aldığını, sıddıklar yanında halkların da Tanrı’nın şahitliğine mazhar olduğu ileri sürülmüştür. Peygamberlerin Tanrı’ya sadece söyledikleriyle değil varlıklarıyla da delil olduklarına işaret edilmiştir. Ateist ve agnostiklerin Tanrı’nın mahiyetine yönelik karşı koyuşlarının makul ancak bir tür yetersizlik ve yine varlığın apriori bilgisinden gafil kalmalarından dolayı Tanrı’nın varlığını yadsımalarının güçlü bir yanılgı olduğu söylenmiştir. İbn Sînâ’ya göre Tanrı, mahiyetinin olmaması sebebiyle zihinsel/rasyonel açıdan ispatlanamaz. Öte taraftan Tanrı, varlığının apaçıklığı ve aklın da menşei olması itibariyle ispata bile konu olmayacak kadar açık bir varlıktır. Bu hükmü/burhanı, ontolojik delilinden farklı kılan özelliği “Tanrı vardır.” önermesindeki “varlık” yükleminin özne pozisyonuna çekilmesi yani varlığın mahiyetin bir sıfatı olarak asla değerlendirilemeyeceğidir. Ulaştığımız sonuca göre Tanrı varlığıyla bütün kâinata şahitse sıddık kimseler yanında bütün bir halkın da bu şehadetin bir parçası olması lazım gelir. İşte ezan ve kelime-i şehadet bunun bir ifadesidir. Halk; itikat yönünden Tanrı konusunda şaşkın ve kararsızken vehim gücünün olumlu gücü sayesinde inancında net ve kararlılık içerisindedir.
Din Kültürü ve Ahlak Bilgisi Öğretmenlerinin Öğrencilere Problem Çözme Becerisi Kazandırma Yeterliği Üzerine Bir Alan Araştırması (Türkiye Örneği)
Authors: YİĞİT Yasin
Published: June 2021

Eğitim öğretim sürecinde öğrencilerin çeşitli bilgi, beceri, tutum ve davranışları kazanması amaçlanmaktadır. Türkiye’de beceri temelli öğretim yaklaşımın benimsenmesiyle birlikte Milli Eğitim Bakanlığı, öğrencilerin üst düzey beceriler kazanmalarına daha çok önem vermeye başlamıştır. Bir işi uygun zamanda beklenen nitelikte yapabilmeye beceri denir. Öğretim sürecinde söz konusu olan becerilerden biri problem çözme becerisidir. Problem çözme becerisi, bir sorunla karşılaşan bireyin, kısa zamanda uyum sağlayabilmesi ve aklını kullanarak, planlı bir şekilde problemi ortadan kaldırabilmesine denir. Hayatın doğal bir parçası olarak her insan yaşam problemleriyle karşılaşmaktadır. Bu nedenle eğitimde öğrencilerin problem çözme becerisi kazanabilmesinin önemi büyüktür. Bu araştırmada din kültürü ve ahlak bilgisi öğretmenlerinin öğrencilere problem çözme becerisi kazandırma yeterlikleri ele alınmaktadır. Araştırma beceri temelli öğretim anlayışının din öğretiminde pratiğe yansımasına katkıda bulunması açısından önemlidir. Araştırmada Türkiye’nin farklı coğrafi bölgelerinde görev yapan 442 öğretmene Öğretmen Problem Çözme Becerisi Kazandırma Yeterliği Ölçeği uygulanmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda öğretmenlerin öğrencilere problem çözme becerisi kazandırma yeterliklerinin yüksek olduğu saptanmıştır.
İlahiyat Fakültesi Öğrencilerinde Psikolojik İyi Oluş ve Dindarlık
Authors: KARSLI Necmi
Published: June 2021

Bu çalışmanın amacı psikolojik iyi oluş ve dindarlık arasındaki ilişkinin tespit edilmesidir. Araştırmanın örneklemi Trabzon Üniversitesi İlahiyat Fakültesi’nde öğrenim görmekte olan 515 bireyden oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada ölçme araçları olarak Çok Boyutlu Psikolojik İyi Oluş Ölçeği ve İçsel Dini Motivasyon Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Araştırmada öncelikle bazı demografik değişkenler ile psikolojik iyi oluş ve içsel dini motivasyon arasındaki ilişkilere bakılmış, daha sonra psikolojik iyi oluş ile içsel dini motivasyon arasındaki ilişkiler incelenmiştir. Elde edilen verilerin analizi sonucunda şu sonuçlara ulaşılmıştır. Kadınların psikolojik iyi oluş ve içsel dini motivasyon düzeyleri erkeklerinkinden anlamlı derecede daha yüksektir. Üst sınıflarda okuyanların içsel dini motivasyon düzeyleri alt sınıflarda okuyanlarınkinden anlamlı derecede daha düşüktür. Sosyo-ekonomik durum ile içsel dini motivasyon arasında negatif ilişki bulunmuştur. Psikolojik iyi oluş ile içsel dini motivasyon arasında pozitif ilişki tespit edilmiştir.
İslam Eserlerinde Kullanılan Kare Tabanlı Geometrik Desenlerin Çözümlenmesine Yönelik Yeni Bir Yaklaşım
Authors: ERYILMAZ Halil İbrahim , SELİMGİL Bahar
Published: June 2021

Geometrik desenler Emevi, Abbasi, Karahanlı, Gazneli ve Büyük Selçuklu dönemlerinde, coğrafi bölge ve kullanılan malzemenin türüne bağlı olmaksızın çokça uygulanmıştır. Süslemenin her alanında çeşitli malzemelerle uygulanmış olan geometrik kompozisyonlar bitkisel, yazı ve figürlü kompozisyonlar ile birlikte, Selçuklu, beylikler ve Osmanlı devirlerinde de sürekli olarak kullanılmıştır.

İslam eserlerinde kullanılan geometrik desenler kare, beşgen, altıgen, yedigen, sekizgen, dokuzgen, ongen, on altıgen, yirmi dörtgen, daire gibi birbirinden farklı geometrik şekillerden oluşmaktadır. Bu çalışmamızda Fas, Hindistan, İran, İspanya, Mısır, Özbekistan, Suriye, Türkiye ile Almanya, Amerika, Fransa ve İngiltere’deki bazı müze ve kütüphanelerde tespit edilen toplam 141 eserdeki 33 farklı kare tabanlı geometrik desen, 9 grup halinde incelenmiştir. Bu desenler IV.-XX. yüzyıllar arasında üretilmiş olan eserlerde yer almaktadır. Bu desenleri daha doğru ve kolay çizebilmek için tarafımızdan kare tabanlı yeni bir ızgara sistemi oluşturulmuştur. Sözünü ettiğimiz yeni yaklaşım budur. İlave olarak birbirine benzer ya da birbirinin akrabası olabilecek desenler gruplandırılmış, ortaya konulan yeni ızgara sayesinde desenlerin detaylı çizimleri gösterilmiştir. Makalenin sınırları gereği detaylı desen analizi yapılamamıştır. Sadece desenlerin ızgaraya yerleşme biçimi gösterilmiştir.
Synsedimentary to Diagenetic Cu±Co Mineralization in Mesoproterozoic Pyritic Shale Driven by Magmatic-Hydrothermal Activity on the Edge of the Great Falls Tectonic Zone–Black Butte, Helena Embayment, Belt-Purcell Basin, USA: Evidence from Sulfide Re-Os Isotope Geochemistry
Authors: Saintilan Nicolas J. , Sheldrake Thomas E. , Creaser Robert A. , Selby David , Zieg Jerry , Boyce Adrian , Chelle-Michou Cyril
Published: June 2021

The ca. 1,500 to 1,325 Ma Mesoproterozoic Belt-Purcell Basin is an exceptionally preserved archive of Mesoproterozoic Earth and its paleoenvironmental conditions. The Belt-Purcell Basin is also host to world-class base metal sediment-hosted mineralization produced in a variety of settings from the rift stage of basin evolution through the subsequent influence of East Kootenay and Grenvillian orogenies. The mineral potential of this basin has not been fully realized yet. New rhenium-osmium (Re-Os) data presented here for chalcopyrite, pyrite, and black shale contribute to refine a robust genetic model for the origin of the Black Butte copper±cobalt±silver (Cu±Co±Ag) deposit hosted by the ca. >1,475 Ma Newland Formation in the Helena Embayment of the Belt-Purcell Basin in Montana, USA. Chalcopyrite Re-Os data yield an isochron age (1,488±34 Ma, unradiogenic initial 187Os/188Os composition Osi-chalcopyrite=0.13±0.11) that overlaps with the geological age of the Newland Formation. Further, the Re-Os data of synsedimentary to diagenetic massive pyrite yield evidence of resetting with an isochron age (1,358±42 Ma) coincident with the timing of the East Kootenay orogeny. The unradiogenic Osi-chalcopyrite at ca. 1,488 Ma (0.13±0.11) argues for derivation of Os from a magmatic source with a 187Os/188Os isotopic composition inherited from the upper mantle in the Mesoproterozoic (Osmantle 1,475 Ma=0.12±0.02). The unradiogenic Osi-chalcopyrite also suggests limited contamination from a continental crustal source. This source of Os and our new sulfur isotopic signatures of chalcopyrite (–4.1 to +2.1‰-VCDT) implies a dominantly magmatic source for metals. We integrate our new results and previously published geological and geochemical evidence to conceptualize a genetic model in which Cu and metals were largely contributed by moderate-temperature, reduced magmatic-hydrothermal fluids carrying reduced sulfur species with a magmatic origin and flowing as highly metalliferous fluids within the shale sequence. A subsidiary derivation of metals during thermally forced shale diagenesis is possible. Chalcopyrite mineralization replaced locally massive synsedimentary to diagenetic pyrite units close to the sediment-water interface, i.e., an ideal locus where magmatic-hydrothermal fluids could cool and the solubility of chalcopyrite would fall. We suggest that Cu mineralization was coeval with the timing of an enhanced thermal gradient in the Helena Embayment triggered until ca. 1,455 Ma by tholeiitic dike swarm that intruded into Archean basement rocks and intersected the NE-SW-trending Great Falls Tectonic Zone.
RNA-seq analysis of ischemia stroke and normal brain in a tree shrew model with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zhao Ling , Huang Shiying , Liao Qiwei , Li Xia , Tan Shufen , Li Shuqing , Ke Tingyu
Published: June 2021

Background: Nowadays, similar strategies have been used for the treatment and prevention of acute stroke in both diabetes mellitus (DM) and non-DM populations. These strategies were analyzed to provide an experimental basis for the clinical prevention and treatment of stroke in patients both with and without DM.Methods: Tree shrews were randomly divided into control, DM, ischemic stroke (IS), and DMIS groups with 18 animals in each group. Serum biochemical indicators were used to assess metabolic status. Neural tissue damage was determined using triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining, H-E staining, and electron microscopy. Differential gene expression of neural tissue between the DM and control groups and the IS and DMIS groups was measured using RNA-seq analysis. Results: The serum glucose levels of the DM and DMIS groups were significantly higher than other groups. In the DMIS group, the infarct size was significantly larger than in the IS group (19.56 ± 1.25%), with a more obvious abnormal ultrastructure of neural cells. RNA-seq analysis showed that the expression of IL-8, C-C motif chemokine 2 (CCL2), and alpha-1-antichymotrypsin was significantly higher in the DM group than in the control group. The CCL7, ATP-binding cassette sub-family A member 12, and adhesion G protein-coupled receptor E2 levels were significantly higher in the DMIS group than in the IS group.Conclusions: For the prevention and treatment of stroke in patients with DM, reducing the inflammatory state of the nervous system may reduce the incidence of stroke and improve the prognosis of neurological function after IS.
Attitudes And Preferences of Wildlife And Their Relationship With Childhood Nature Experience Amongst Residents In A Tropical Urban City
Authors: Ngo Kang Min , Hosaka Tetsuro , Numata Shinya
Published: June 2021

How people relate to biodiversity and whether they are supportive of conservation programs and policies has implications on global and local biodiversity conservation efforts. Nature experiences in childhood has been shown to be strongly correlated to positive attitudes towards nature and wildlife in adulthood. In this study, we examined wildlife experience, attitudes and willingness to coexist with 26 vertebrates and invertebrates amongst residents in a highly urbanized tropical city, Singapore. A total of 1004 respondents were surveyed and their childhood nature experience and various socioeconomic variables were obtained. The animals were grouped by their likeability and preferred habitat from the respondents’ answers. Three main groups of animals were discerned – unfavorable animals, mammals, and favorable animals. Singapore residents generally had high direct experiences of animals that are common in urban settings, for both favorable and unfavorable animals, such as butterflies, dragonflies, crows and bees, but low direct experiences of forest-dependent wildlife. Animals that were well-liked and acceptable near homes include the common urban ones and some forest-dependent ones, while animals that were disliked included stinging insects (bees and hornets) and reptiles (snakes and water monitors). The apparent mismatch between greening policies and people’s willingness to coexist with wildlife may be problematic as urban development further encroaches on forest habitats, and this study highlights the importance of preserving forest habitats so that young children and adults have opportunities to be exposed to them.
On the Cluster Validity Test (s) in Unsupervised Machine Learning TDA Approach for Atmospheric River Patterns on Flood Detection in Nigeria
Authors: Ohanuba Felix Obi , Ismail Mohd Tahir , Ali Majid Khan Majahar , Alih Ekele , Ezra Precious Ndidiamaka
Published: June 2021

TDA (i.e., Topological Data Analysis) has recently been a reliable and current research area in Statistics for extracting shape (information) from data. In this study, the researchers proposed an automated method that uses TDA & ML in identifying floods (ARs) in big data. Our process gives vital details on time series trends, which help mitigate the negative effect of ARs, such as flooding. The spatial data (between 1970 - 2018) from Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) on four weather parameters were used. The daily datasets were converted to monthly datasets before the proposed method was applied. Python Software is used to develop code in the implementation of our process. Mostly, the outcome facts studied will drastically reduce disasters due to extreme events like floods and achieve some SDG goals related to the flood. The second objective is to identify potential flooding and no flooding in each zone. The work successfully used a real dataset and four variables that other studies have not used to fill a gap. After our model's training process, we obtained the best group at k = 2, where we have the highest Silhouette coefficient in each of the seven states. We have found a reasonable structure in the study considering the total average range (0.3 - 0.8). That gives an efficiency outcome of approximately 80%. Summary of clustered feature pattern shows the potential flood zone and no flood zone. We conducted cluster validity of our results using R software codes and, the test validated the best group at the same cluster k = 2. The Gap statistic shows efficiency ranging between 65% to 80% in the seven states. We found from figure 11 that only the Silhouette plot obtained optimal values at exactly k = 2; The researchers got the extent of the spread from the centroid using Excel software.
Performance analysis and modeling: atmospheric turbulence and crosstalk of WDM-FSO network
Authors: Elsayed Ebrahim E.
Published: June 2021

A wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) access network using high-speed free-space optical (FSO) communication for the distribution link is proposed. This Paper investigates terrestrial atmospheric of WDM-FSO communication systems operating under the influence of turbulence-induced scintillation, beam spreading, optical interchannel crosstalk, amplified spontaneous emission noise and pointing errors.On-off keying-non–return-to-zero and digital pulse position modulation are the modulation schemes used for the calculations.
Urban Tree DBH Response to Fast Urbanization— A Case from Coastal City Zhanjiang, China
Authors: Cheng Xia-Lan , Nizamani Mir Muhammad , Balfour Kelly , Qureshi Salman , Liu Shuang , Zhu Zhi-Xin , Wu Si-Si , Wang Huafeng
Published: June 2021

Trees perform various ecosystem functions within urban green space, yet little is known about the magnitude of change in urban tree DBH, and its potential response to urbanization. Field investigation was used to determine current tree DBH within Urban Function Units (UFUs) in the coastal city Zhanjiang in China. The cover of each UFU was determined via visual interpretation of satellite images. We recorded 12,434 individuals within Zhanjiang green space belonging to 185 species, 137 genera, and 51 families. The dominant DBH range was 5-15 cm, which accounted for 43.72% of the total stems. The DBHs of 33 individuals were larger than 90 cm - 20 of these individuals were Ficus species. The average tree DBH within commercial areas was (32.29 cm ±1.74 cm), which was the highest among all UFU types, and lowest within woodland areas (7.11 cm ± 0.56 cm). Tree DBH was significantly positively correlated with imperious surface rate, and significantly negatively correlated with green space surface rate. Variation partitioning analysis showed that impervious surface rate had the highest explanatory power, followed by construction age, then patch density. These three prediction variables, however, only explained 20% of the total observed variation - this suggests that DBH was strongly influenced by several additional factors. Understanding urban tree DBH structure and its influencing factors can promote the stable development of the urban forest.
Self-Delayed Feedback Based Car Following Control With Velocity Uncertainty of Preceding Vehicle On Gradient Roads
Authors: Zhai Cong , Wu Weitiao
Published: June 2021

Uphill and downhill roads are prevalent in mountainous areas and freeways. Despite the advancement of vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication technology, the driving field of vision is still largely limited under such a complex road environment, which hinders the sensors accurately perceiving the speed of the front vehicle. As such, a fundamental question for autonomous traffic management is how to control traffic flow associated with the velocity uncertainty of preceding vehicles? This paper seeks to develop a controlling framework for corporative car following control under such complex road environment. To this end, we first propose a traffic flow model accounting for the uncertainty effect of preceding vehicles velocity on gradient road. We further design a new self-delayed feedback controller based on the velocity and headway difference between the current time step and historical time step, in an aim to enhance the robustness of traffic flow. The sufficient condition where traffic jam does not occur is derived from the perspective of the frequency domain via Hurwitz criteria H∞ and norm of transfer functions. The bode diagram reveals that the robustness of closed-loop traffic flow model has been significantly enhanced. We also conduct simulations to verify the theoretical analysis.
Violent crime and extremism in South Sudan: The modus operandi of organised criminal groups and political corruption
Authors: Ding Dau
Published: June 2021

Environmental Criminology (EC) theories are regularly employed by law enforcement practitioners within their efforts to disrupt the criminal activities of motivated offenders. However, EC theories have not been utilised to combat the illicit activities of “State-supported” offenders. This study explored organised crime in South Sudan by applying EC theories and large group population psychoanalysis. A null hypothesis - “violent crime in South Sudan is not associated with ideological extremism” - was postulated and assessed. Fifty-Four South Sudanese government officials participated in semi-structured interviews. Violent crime and organised crime were reported to be common in South Sudan. Both were identified as being facilitated by political corruption. The study concludes that there is no association between ideological extremism and violent crime; including ethnic and tribal extremism. EC theories and population psychoanalysis may be cogently employed to practically inform stakeholders’ efforts in combating the criminal activities of State-supported motivated offenders. The EC crime triangle is a useful tool for highlighting State-supported illicit activities that: Challenge democratic governance in failing or failed Nation-States; Undermine the international rules of law and human rights, and; Threaten global peace and security via transnational criminal activities, including the financing of foreign terrorist organisations.
Chemerin Promotes Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase / Extracellular Regulated Protein Kinases Activation to Induce Inflammatory Factor Production in Rat Synoviocytes
Authors: wang chen , Zhang Songrui , Huang Longao , Liu Jianyi , Du Gang , Lao Shan
Published: June 2021

AimChemerin is a chemokine from adipose tissue that specifically binds to the G protein-coupled receptor ChemR23 and has a chemotactic effect on macrophages and dendritic cells. A correlation between chemerin levels in synovial fluid and disease severity has been demonstrated in patients with osteoarthritis. However, the specific mechanism by which chemerin exerts its effects on osteoarthritis remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of chemerin-associated synoviocyte inflammation.MethodsCell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assays were used to identify concentrations of chemerin that had an effect on normal rat synoviocytes. The expression changes of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) pathway marker genes, including MEK, ERK, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 and MMP-13, were detected by fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The phosphorylation of MEK, ERK1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38MAPK) by chemerin was analyzed by Western blotting, and the production of inflammatory factors after chemerin treatment was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). For in vivo assessment of chemerin function, rats were subjected to knee operation to provide a model for arthritis. The knees were then injected with normal saline or recombinant chemerin, and three weeks later, the synovium and knee joint tissue were harvested for HE staining observation and the synovial tissue was harvested for ELISA.ResultsChemerin was demonstrated to enhance the proliferation of synoviocytes in a dose-dependent manner. The stimulatory effect of chemerin on synoviocytes was shown to involve the activation of MEK, ERK1/2 and p38, which was associated with the production of MMP-13, MMP-3, interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1β by synoviocytes. Inhibition of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway significantly inhibited chemerin-induced MMP-13, MMP-3, IL-6 and IL-1β production. HE staining showed that the degree of synovial hyperplasia and articular cartilage abrasion was more severe in chemerin-treated rats after knee operation. The articular cartilage surface was damaged, and the synovial tissue showed inflammatory cell infiltration. In rats that underwent operation without chemerin treatment, there was a slight inflammatory infiltration and higher levels of inflammatory factors as compared to unoperated rats; however, secretion of the downstream inflammatory factors IL-6, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-3 and MMP-13) and IL-1β was significantly greater in the drug-treated group (P<0.05).ConclusionChemerin enhances the production of inflammatory factors in synoviocytes by activating the MEK/ERK signaling pathway.
Quercetin Synergistically Potentiates the Anti-Angiogenic Effect of 5- Fluorouracil on HUVEC Cell Line
Authors: rashidi mojtaba , Mohammadzadeh Ghorban , Sanaei arash
Published: June 2021

background: Since tumors need oxygen and nutrients to grow and spread, angiogenesis has an essential role in cancer growth and metastasis. So, inhibition of angiogenesis at the initial stage of cancer is a critical strategy in metastasis inhibition. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a chemotherapy drug that has also been shown to have anti-angiogenic effects. Quercetin, a natural polyphenolic compound, has anti-angiogenic effects. The present study was conducted to investigate the enhancement of the anti-angiogenic effect of 5-FU in combination with Quercetin (Que) and compare it with the application of 5-FU alone.Method and Results: Following the treatment of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with Que, 5-FU and their combination, the cell viability, migration, and gene expression of VEGFR2 and VEGFR1 were assessed through MTT assay, wound healing assay, and real-time RT-PCR, respectively. In vivo angiogenesis was evaluated using chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. Our study showed that cell viability, migration, gene expression of VEGFR2 and VEGFR1, and angiogenesis significantly decreased following Que and 5-FU alone treatment, and the decrease in combination state was significant compare to 5-FU alone.Conclusions: In summary, the present study showed that the combination of Que with 5-FU improves its anti-angiogenic effects. Therefore, this combination can be suggested for future in vivo studies.
Metagenomic Analysis for Taxonomic and Functional Potential of Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) Degrading Bacterial Communities in Steel Industrial Soil
Authors: Sandhu Monika , Paul Atish T. , Jha Prabhat Nath
Published: June 2021

Iron and steel industries are the major contributors to persistent organic pollutants (POPs). The microbial community present at such sites has potential to remediate these contaminants. The present study highlights the metabolic potential of resident microbial community of PAHs and PCB contaminated soil nearby Bhilai steel plant, Chhattisgarh (India). The GC-MS/MS analysis of soil samples MGB-2 (sludge) and MGB-3 (dry soil) resulted in identification of different classes of POPs including PAHs {benzo[a]anthracene (nd; 17.69%), fluorene (15.89%, nd), pyrene (nd; 18.7%), benzo(b)fluoranthene (3.03%, nd), benzo(k)fluoranthene (11.29%; nd), perylene (5.23%; nd)} and PCBs (PCB-15, PCB-95, and PCB-136). Whole-genome metagenomic analysis by Oxford Nanopore GridION Technology revealed Proteobacteria (44.3%; 50.0%) to be the prominent phylum followed by Actinobacteria (22.1%; 19.5%) in MBG-2 and MBG-3, respectively. The sample MGB-3 was richer in terms of macronutrients (C, N, P) supporting high microbial diversity than MGB-2. Taxonomic vis-à-vis functional analysis identified Burkholderia, Bradyrhizobium, Mycobacterium, and Rhodopseudomonas as the keystone degrader of PAH and PCB. Overall, our results revealed the importance of metagenomic together with physicochemical analysis of contaminated site which improves the understanding of metabolic potential and adaptation of bacteria growing under stressful environment.
Performance of Finite Energy Airy Hermite Gaussian Beam in Strong Atmospheric Turbulence
Authors: BAYRAKTAR Mert
Published: June 2021

This paper presents intensity evolution of finite energy Airy Hermite Gaussian(FEAHG) beam and its scintillation performance under strong atmospheric conditions. Atmosphere is modeled utilizing split step propagation. Our results reveals that, beam evolves into elliptic shape during propagation. Point like scintillation reduction is obtained for all setting of FEAHG beam. For selected apertures less scintillation index is provided by FEAHG beam. We think that our results are used in free space optical communication systems.
Children's Mental and Behavioral Health, Schooling, Sociodemographic and Socioeconomic Characteristics During School Closure in France Due To COVID-19: The SAPRIS Project.
Authors: Monnier Maëva , Moulin Flore , Thierry Xavier , Vandentorren Stéphanie , Côté Sylvana , Barbosa Susana , Falissard Bruno , Plancoulaine Sabine , Charles Marie-Aline , Simeon Thierry , Geay Bertrand , Marchand Laetitia , Ancel Pierre-Yves , Melchior Maria , Rouquette Alexandra , Galera Cédric
Published: June 2021

Background: COVID-19 limitation strategies have led to widespread school closures around the world. The present study reports children’s mental health and associated factors during the COVID-19 school closure in France in the spring of 2020. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the SAPRIS project set up during the COVID-19 pandemic in France. Using multinomial logistic regression models, we estimated associations between children’s mental health, children’s health behaviors, schooling, and sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the children’s families. Results: The sample consisted of 5702 children aged 8 to 9 years, including 50.2% girls. In multivariate logistic regression models, children’s sleeping difficulties were associated with children’s abnormal hyperactivity-inattention (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 2.05; 95% Confidence Interval 1.70-2.47) and emotional symptoms (aOR 5.34; 95% CI 4.16-6.86). Factors specifically associated with abnormal hyperactivity/inattention were: male sex (aOR 2.29; 95% CI 1.90-2.76), access to specialized care prior to the pandemic and its suspension during school closure (aOR 1.51; 95% CI 1.21-1.88), abnormal emotional symptoms (aOR 4.06; 95% CI 3.11-5.29), being unschooled or schooled with assistance before lockdown (aOR 2.13; 95% CI 1.43-3.17), and tutoring with difficulties or absence of a tutor (aOR 3.25; 95% CI 2.64-3.99; aOR 2.47; 95% CI 1.48-4.11, respectively). Factors associated with children’s emotional symptoms were the following: being born pre-term (aOR 1.34; 95% CI 1.03-1.73), COVID-19 cases among household members (aOR 1.72; 95% CI 1.08-2.73), abnormal symptoms of hyperactivity/inattention (aOR 4.18; 95% CI 3.27-5.34) and modest income (aOR 1.45; 95% CI 1.07-1.96; aOR 1.36; 95% CI 1.01-1.84). Conclusions: Multiple characteristics were associated with elevated levels of symptoms of hyperactivity-inattention and emotional symptoms in children during the period of school closure due to COVID-19. Further studies are needed to help policymakers to balance the pros and cons of closing schools, taking into consideration the educational and psychological consequences for children.
Factors Associated With Non-Adherence To Antidiabetic Medication Among Patients at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda
Authors: Faisal Karekoona , MEKURIYA TADELE , Tusiimire Jonans
Published: June 2021

Background

Non–adherence is a major concern in treatment of diabetes mellitus and undermines the goals of treatment. The objective of this study was to determine the magnitude of non-adherence and its contributing factors among diabetes mellitus patients attending the Diabetes mellitus clinic at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital.
Objective

To assess the factors contributing to non-adherence to antidiabetic medication among diabetes mellitus patients in the Diabetic clinic at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital
Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was done at the Diabetes clinic, Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, between July and October 2020. Study participants were systemically sampled and data regarding their medication non-adherence was collected using a structured questionnaire, based on the Hill-Bone medication adherence scale. Data entry was done using Microsoft Excel Version 2010 and analysis was carried out using STATA version 13.
Results

A total of 257 participants were recruited with 100% response rate. More than one third (98, 38.1%) of the participants were non-adherent to their antidiabetic medication. Age above 60 years (AOR = 6.26, 95%CI = 1.009–39.241, P = 0.049), and duration of diabetes mellitus above 5years (AOR = 1.87, 95%CI = 1.034–3.392, P = 0.038) were independently associated with non-adherence to antidiabetic medication.
Conclusion

The prevalence of non-adherence to antidiabetic medication was higher than that revealed in previous studies in Uganda. Patients with age above 60 years were six times more likely to be non-adherent to their antidiabetic medications. Patient education is important to address the challenge of medication non-adherence.