bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reassessing the Impact of Financial Services on Urban Manufacturing Firms: An Impact Evaluation Method in Ethiopia
Authors: Eshete Zerayehu Sime , Kidane Bisrat Legesse
Published: July 2020

The stock of financial literature reveals emerging and conflicting stands on the effect of finance on the performance of the economy. The previous thoughts considered finance into account as an important driving force to growth through its role in intermediation, reduction of transaction costs and risk, and efficient uses of resources. Nevertheless, the newly emerging thoughts focus on the vanishing effect of finance due to its stiff competition over resources with the rest of the economy. The dialogues also reflected in the process of industrialization and promoting the manufacturing sector. Therefore, the general objective of this study is to reexamine the impact of financial services on the performance of manufacturing firms in Ethiopia with a special focus on firms in Addis Ababa. The study used propensity score matching method. The result shows that those who access finance has increased their operating margin profit by 2.6 on average in comparison with the non-treated groups. The treated groups have 0.42 greater net return on a net asset than non-treated groups on average. Therefore, the study suggests that financial institutions should increase their involvement to expand the accessibility of financial products to manufacturing firms that are the expected engines of sustainable growth and economic transformation.
The stability of the world image in creating a global sense of security.
Authors: Ciupka Stanisław
Published: July 2020

The concept of safety has changed over the centuries and has been taken into account by many different factors. This was because some stability only covered some areas of human life and others were subject to change. Often the changes were created by different temporary fashions and trends. By referring to different philosophical concepts over the centuries, we would like to point out that many researchers claim that there is a constant trend to question a stable, certain world picture in global dimensions. If this thesis is true, then it begins to live and function, both in the individual and social dimension in an increasingly dangerous global world.
Threats posed by serious and organised crime for the safety and security of tourism in Poland.
Authors: Martyniak Kamil
Published: July 2020

The growing impact and relevance of safety and security in tourism can be discerned in the increasingly more substantial foreign and Polish academic literature on the subject. Based on the available publications and enhanced by the author’s individual reflections and tourist experiences, the paper attempts to outline a number of issues selected arbitrarily by the author. The goal of this paper is to attempt to define the various threats posed for the safety and security of tourism in Poland, and to look at the salient problems and dilemmas that may, in the nearest future, become the object of further research and enquiries.
Being absorbed by the trip implies that tourists frequently fail to pay enough attention to the dangers that await them. Situations of this sort are, indeed, numerous: some are caused by the people themselves, and the origins of others need to be traced in nature. The role of tourism organisers and travel agencies, as well as tourists themselves, is to strive to make sure that trips made to get some sunshine, bathe in warm water sofexotic seas, and expeditions to the mountains do not turn into a nightmare (Mansfeld 2006). Each type of tourism has its unique specificity that goes with smaller or bigger chances of fortuitous events. It is not just the specific nature of the above types of tourism that can trigger a variety of fortuitous events, but also at the individual stages of consumption of a tourism product (Sanetra&Sanetra-Półgrabi 2018) situations can occur that are caused by factors related to tourist transport, and staying at a given rest spot. Admittedly, the essence of tourism rests on people’s travelling to destinations that pride themselves on outstanding tourist qualities, and that are located beyond the place where tourists reside on a permanent basis. This form of travelling constitutes the basic element of the consumption of tourism. This paper is the fruit of critical literature-based research, and desk research conducted on the subject matter at hand.
The features of anticipative marketing in the process of products promotion.
Authors: Krykavskyy Yevhen , Kuryliak O , Fihun N
Published: July 2020

these instructions give you guidelines for preparing papers for ASEJ Scientific Journal. Use this document as a template if you are using Microsoft Word 2003 or later. Otherwise, use this document as an instruction set. The format of this paper is a letter size, one column text, with 20 mm top and bottom margins and 16,5 mm left and right margins. Do not cite references in the abstract. The abstract should be self-contained and should not exceed 200 words. Follow the style of structured abstracts, but without headings. It should contain main items: place the question addressed in a broad context and highlight the purpose of the study, briefly describe main methods or treatments applied in the paper, summarize the paper's main findings; indicate the main conclusions or interpretations with the proviso that it cannot contain results which are not presented and substantiated in the text.
„Mensch Opa, du bist noch so fit!“
Authors: Stehr Paula , Rossmann Constanze , Geppert Johanna , Lütke Lanfer Hanna , Kremer Tabea
Published: July 2020

Physical activity is an important part of healthy ageing—an issue that has become increasingly important due to demographic change and longer life expectancy. To promote physical activity in the long term, it is necessary to increase older adults’ awareness of the influence of physical activity on health as well as their interest in being active. This project provides a foundation for the evidence-based design of effective and efficient communicative measures.

To this end, the authors identified crucial behavioural determinants and the health information behaviour of people aged 65 and above in Germany using a combination of semi-structured interviews and a standardised telephone survey. On this basis, they were able to outline an evidence-based communication strategy for older adults in Germany in general and in particular for vulnerable target groups.
Liposome-A Comprehensive Approach for Researchers
Authors: Sharma Mani , Joshi Jyoti , Kumar Chouhan Neeraj , N. Talati Mamta , Vaidya Sandeep , Kumar Abhiram
Published: July 2020

Bangham was first to develop these spherical-shaped nano-vesicles called liposomes in the early 1960s. Today, liposomes have emerged as crucial tools for bettering the delivery of drugs that majorly includes-antifungal drug, peptide hormones, enzymes, vaccines antimicrobial agents, drugs against cancer, and genetic materials. Following the different manufacturing practices and versatile properties liposomes can be categorized in various parameters of size, charge, poly-dispersity index, encapsulation efficiency, solubility properties, and lamellarity. Alteration in such parameters elevates the loading and bioavailability of a drug by giving more clear target specification, desired or controlled release. This bibliographic chapter provides a comprehensive overview of methods for the preparation of liposomes with other perspectives that majorly includes—physio-chemical characteristics, dosage regimen, advantages over other delivery systems, approved liposomal based drugs and other ongoing drugs in clinical trials. It will help researchers to breakthrough more structurally successful delivery vehicles depending upon their various physic-chemical properties.
Non-Surgical Management and Post-Surgical Rehabilitation of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: An Algorithmic Approach and Practical Guideline
Authors: Nazarieh Mahshid , Hakakzadeh Azadeh , Ghannadi Shima , Maleklou Faezeh , Tavakol Zahra , Alizadeh Zahra
Published: July 2020

: One of the most common forms of entrapment neuropathy is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). There are various treatment options for CTS. However, there are no clear and structured guidelines. This review classified the existing treatments and developed an algorithm to help physicians to choose the best option for their patients. Treatment options were summarized in three sections: non-surgical management of CTS, post-operative management of CTS, and practical open carpal tunnel release post-op protocol. The physicians can prescribe multiple treatment options to CTS patients. Corticosteroid in oral or injectable form has strong evidence in pain control and functional improvement in the short term. Shockwave therapy and nocturnal wrist splints display moderate therapeutic effects. Post carpal tunnel release rehabilitation can be started a few days after the operation.
Faculty Members’ Satisfaction with the Executive Processes of Educational, Research and Administrative Units of Kermanshah Medical School in 2018
Authors: Niromand Elham , Hosseini Seiydeh Sara , Khazaei Mozafar , Khazaei Mohammad Rasool
Published: July 2020

Background: The management of educational organizations is particularly sensitive since it deals with the professors and students who play a strategic role in the community. Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the satisfaction level of the faculty members with the current status of executive processes and performance of medical school departments regarding service provision. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted at Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences in 2018. The sample population included the faculty members of the clinical and basic sciences departments. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire based on the previous studies. Data analysis was performed using t-test and chi-square, and the data were expressed as mean, standard deviation, numbers, and percentages. Results: Among 187 faculty members, 55 (29.4%) were in the basic sciences department, 132 cases were in the clinical departments, and 65.24% were male. The mean age of the professors was 42.84 ± 5.52 years (range: 30 - 60 years). The mean work experience was 10 years (range: 1 - 30 years), and the academic rank was mainly assistant professor (65.8%) and associate professor (27.3%), with the majority (45.6%) having formal and formal-experiential employment. Management experience at the faculty or university level was 34.6%, while it was 28.9% at the department level. The satisfaction of the faculty members with the performance of the medical school units was favorable, with the highest satisfaction rate belonging to the research units and the lowest belonging to the service units. Conclusions: According to the results, the satisfaction of the faculty members with the provided services in the educational, research, and administrative-financial units of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences was favorable despite the difference between these units in this regard.
The Effect of Resistance Training and Vitamin D on Leptin and HDL-C in Overweight Women
Authors: Najafi Maryam , Fatolahi Hoseyn
Published: July 2020

Background: Exercise training and vitamin D consumption are separately reported to be effective on improving health. However, the simultaneous effect of resistance training and vitamin D is not clear yet. However, there is no information available on the resistance training and the amount of vitamin D prescription. In addition, it is important to examine this issue in women who are known as an active and effective part of society. Methods: The participants (n = 40) of this study were randomly divided into four groups as follows: (1) placebo, (2) resistance training, (3) vitamin D, and (4) resistance training + vitamin D. In this study, interventions were performed for an 8-week period (3 D/W) consisting of resistance training protocol (60% 1-RM) and daily consumption of vitamin D (1000 IU). Anthropometric and laboratory measurements were collected 48 hours before and after the intervention. Results: Changes in HDL-C (P = 0.001, F = 6.3), total cholesterol (P = 0.001, F = 7.8), and leptin concentration (P = 0.001, F = 11.4) were significant. Accordingly, these changes in the study variables showed a better improvement in the resistance training + vitamin D group compared to the other groups (P = 0.001). Conclusions: Probably the most important factor for the observed changes was the reduction of adipose tissue caused by resistance training, as well as the enhancement of signaling pathways resulting from the consumption of vitamin D. However, maintaining muscle tissue caused by resistance training can be effective. Moreover, HDL change due to resistance training and its effect on reverse cholesterol transport may occur faster than LDL-C changes. Also, the improvement in LDL-C appears in response to longer periods of exercise along with drug therapy.
Ou a vida ou o lucro: a disjuntiva neoliberal e a gestão política da morte em tempos de pandemia
Authors: Yazbek André Constantino
Published: July 2020

Partindo da disjuntiva neoliberal entre a vida e o lucro (ou a vida ou o lucro), o propósito deste artigo é o de discutir, no contexto da crise provocada pelo coronavírus, o conceito central de biopolítica em termos de uma gestão da morte ou, mais exatamente, de uma necropolítica.
Measuring perception of service quality of Serbian rural tourism using RURALQUAL scale
Authors: Perić Goran , Dramićanin Sandra , Milenkovski Ace
Published: July 2020

The aim of this research is to measure the perception of services quality in rural tourism in the Republic of Serbia using the RURALQUAL scale, and to determine its factor structure as well. The research was conducted during January and February 2020, using the questionnaire technique, on a sample of 298 respondents. The findings of the descriptive statistical analysis indicate a high assessment of the perception of service quality in rural tourism in the Republic of Serbia, while professionalism and basic advantages were singled out as the most important dimensions of service quality. The assessment of the perception of the actually provided service is the lowest for the tangibility dimension. The principal components analysis singled out three factors that explain 57.87% of the variance. The principal components analysis findings, after rotation produced a clear factor structure with relatively high loading and minimal item overlap, indicating factor independence. Factors are marked as: professionalism and basic benefits; tangibility and reservation; complementary benefits and environment. Therefore, measuring the perception of service quality through the RURALQUAL scale can help owners of rural tourist lodgings in obtaining feedback on the quality service provided, in order to implement an adequate strategy to improve the quality of services in rural tourism. Research limitations are presented and recommendations for future research are given.
“Não somos contra os bois estilizados”: tensões e conflitos entre Estado e artistas populares
Authors: Fontenele Weslley
Published: July 2020

Tácito Borralho (2006) afirma que o bumba-meu-boi pode ser analisado por categorias do teatro de animação, pois apresenta características que possibilitam sua identificação como gênero animado. A partir de entrevistas e de trabalho de campo em Parnaíba/PI (janeiro e abril de 2017), comento a mudança radical no formato do XVII São João da Parnaíba (2017), principal festa popular da cidade. Insatisfeitos com a modificação arbitrária pela Prefeitura, vários grupos de bumba-meu-boi não participaram do evento. Partindo do caso e de itens do regulamento da festa, foi possível perceber que a relação entre Estado e grupos de boi pode se dar de forma autoritária ou aberta aos anseios dos artistas.
Arquiteturas do imaginário: o corpo de atuação e os dramas da matéria. Uma entre(vista) com a Cia Dos à Deux.
Authors: Rossin Elisa de Almeida
Published: July 2020

A entrevista com Artur Ribeiro e André Curti, os fundadores da Cia Dos à Deux, tem como objetivo ampliar a discussão sobre o corpo de atuação integrado as materialidades da cena (ao universo das máscaras, dos bonecos, dos objetos, considerando também a musicalidade e toda a concepção estética). Trata-se de uma imersão no universo criador da companhia para melhor compreender seus fundamentos básicos de trabalho, bem como as motivações e posicionamentos artísticos e pessoais dos atores. As questões se relacionam a criação do espetáculo “Gritos”, criado em 2016, e que teve apresentações censuradas no Brasil em 2019. O material coletado torna-se campo de estudo sobre os dramas da matéria e provoca reflexões sobre a liberdade e a necessidade da expressão artística.Palavras-chave: teatro físico, processo de criação, dramaturgia do corpo, presença e censura.
Títeres, censura e Inquisición en la Monarquía hispánica
Authors: Cornejo Vega Francisco J.
Published: July 2020

Resumen: En los territorios de la Monarquía hispánica los títeres y sus titiriteros sufrieron el rigor de la censura y, en ocasiones, también el de la Santa Inquisición. En esto no hubo diferencias con el teatro de actores y, en general, con la sociedad de los siglos XVII y XVIII. Aquí se exponen algunos casos.Palabras clave: Teatro de títeres. Censura. Inquisición. Siglo XVII. Siglo XVIII.
Um verdadeiro casamento de opostos
Authors: Varley Julia
Published: July 2020

Resumo: Questões de censura e autocensura são confrontadas através da experiência de Julia Varley na animação de uma máscara de caveira sobre pernas de pau, o Sr. Peanut, e um boneco, a Sheherazade. O Sr. Peanut viaja para diversos países latino americanos, e o artigo lembra de episódios em Ayacucho, no Peru, em Santiago do Chile, e o encontro entre soldados e polícia.Palavras-chave: Odin Teatret. Teatro de Animação. Censura. Peru. Chile.
Inquietações artísticas e pedagógicas no Teatro Lambe-Lambe
Authors: Gasperi Marcelo Rocco , Lucenti Maria Gabriela
Published: July 2020

O presente trabalho irá analisar uma proposta artístico-pedagógica acerca do Teatro Lambe-Lambe que, grosso modo, trata-se de espetáculos teatrais de curta duração que ocorrem dentro uma pequena caixa e são assistidos por um ou dois espectadores por vez, propiciando um encontro intimista entre obra e público. Recebe o nome de Teatro Lambe-Lambe por ter sido inspirado nas caixas de fotografia lambe-lambe, muito comuns no decorrer do século XX. O texto expõe um breve panorama acerca da história desta linguagem e propõe uma possível metodologia para o desenvolvimento de trabalhos pedagógicos que buscam utilizar tal linguagem no âmbito escolar.
Thrombin: An Approach to Developing a Higher-Order Reference Material and Reference Measurement Procedure for Substance Identity, Amount, and Biological Activities
Authors: Jackson Craig M. , Esnouf M. Peter , Duewer David L.
Published: July 2020

Thrombin, the proteolytic enzyme that catalyzes the transformation of soluble fibrinogen to the polymerized fibrin clot, participates in multiple reactions in blood coagulation in addition to the clotting reaction. Although reference materials have existed for many years, structural characterization and measurement of biological activity have never been sufficient to permit claims of clear metrological traceability for the thrombin preparations. Our current state-of-the-art methods for protein characterization and determination of the catalytic properties of thrombin now make it practical to develop and characterize a metrologically acceptable reference material and reference measurement procedure for thrombin. Specifically, α-thrombin, the biologically produced protease formed during prothrombin activation, is readily available and has been extensively characterized. Dependences of thrombin proteolytic and peptide hydrolytic activities on a variety of substrates, pH, specific ions, and temperature are established, although variability remains for the kinetic parameters that describe thrombin enzymatic action. The roles of specific areas on the surface of the thrombin molecule (exosites) in substrate recognition and catalytic efficiency are described and characterized. It is opportune to develop reference materials of high metrological order and technical feasibility. In this article, we review the properties of α-thrombin important for its preparation and suggest an approach suitable for producing a reference material and a reference measurement procedure that is sensitive to thrombin’s catalytic competency on a variety of substrates.
Le désistement du crime des adolescents judiciarisés « multiproblématiques » soumis à une ordonnance différée de placement et de surveillance
Authors: C.-Dubé1 Roxanne , F.-Dufour Isabelle
Published: July 2020

En analysant les dossiers de suivi d’adolescents soumis à une ordonnance différée de placement et de surveillance (ODP), cette étude vise à déterminer les interventions qui permettent de soutenir le processus de désistement du crime d’adolescents judiciarisés « multiproblématiques ». Cette étude exploratoire montre que s’ils sont capables d’encadrer les comportements inadéquats, de soutenir la démarche de réhabilitation et de favoriser la (ré)intégration sociocommunautaire, les délégués à la jeunesse peuvent contribuer à l’émergence d’un « projet de vie » qui apparaît indispensable au processus de désistement du crime des adolescents judiciarisés « multiproblématiques » qui, autrement, risquent de s’enliser davantage dans une carrière criminelle sérieuse, violente et chronique. L’analyse se conclut par la présentation de trois recommandations pour améliorer les suivis offerts dans le cadre de l’ordonnance différée de placement et de surveillance.
Simple cicérone au Levant ou véritable truchement ? L’interprète dans les récits journalistiques anglo-saxons
Authors: Léger Benoit
Published: July 2020

Cet article étudie la perception du rôle du fixeur, soit l’interprète professionnel ou ponctuel qui travaille auprès des journalistes étrangers dans une zone de conflit. Robert Fisk, Fred A. Reed, Hugh Pope et Graeme Smith ont couvert le Proche-Orient, l’Asie centrale ou la Turquie pendant des périodes de tensions ou de conflits en faisant appel à des fixeurs qui leur permettent de décrire la situation dans les récits qu’ils publient par la suite. La manière dont ces journalistes décrivent le rôle, la fonction et même l’apparence de leurs fixeurs diffère cependant grandement : certains les mettent au premier plan, évoquant un collaborateur et même une figure parentale, tandis que d’autres mentionnent à peine le besoin d’un médiateur linguistique, et ce, même s’il est évident qu’ils ne maîtrisent pas la langue du pays. La comparaison de ces descriptions du rôle des médiateurs linguistiques éclaire d’un jour nouveau la perception que l’on a de l’interprétation dans les zones de conflit, la fiction d’une communication instantanée entre les langues et, de manière générale, la reconnaissance due aux fixeurs dans le monde du journalisme.
Presidential Address. Starting with Water: Canada, Colonialism, and History at
2019
Authors: Perry Adele
Published: July 2020

How does history look when we begin with water? Here, I want to address
the possibilities of thinking about water, particularly through the its relationship
to colonialism, and especially in the watery, geographical centre of North America
that we might call the western edge of the Annishinaabeg world, and we also might
call the space between modern Winnipeg and the Lake of the Woods. To discuss
histories of water here, I will draw on Indigenous Studies, critical colonial
history, histories of the environment, and urban space, and the questions prompted
by the present of 2019, sitting as it does in the wake of the completion of the
Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in 2015, and the commemoration of the
sesquicentennial of the British North America Act (BNA) in 2017. As the Canadian
Historical Association/Société Historique du Canada (CHA/SHC) approaches its
100th anniversary in 2022, and as we think and act around the role of
scholarly disciplines, including history, in the institutional, social, and
intellectual scaffolding of the ongoing project of Canadian colonialism. These are
some of the questions that water can lead us to. I will begin by talking about
water, history, and settler colonialism, and then turn to histories of water at the
meeting of the Red and Assiniboine rivers, and to histories of dispossession in the
Lake of the Woods watershed before returning to our colonial present, and the role
of histories and historians in that present.
A mechanism for hunchback promoters to readout morphogenetic positional information in less than a minute
Authors: Desponds Jonathan , Vergassola Massimo , Walczak Aleksandra M
Published: July 2020

Cell fate decisions in the fly embryo are rapid: hunchback genes decide in minutes whether nuclei follow the anterior/posterior developmental blueprint by reading out positional information in the Bicoid morphogen. This developmental system is a prototype of regulatory decision processes that combine speed and accuracy. Traditional arguments based on fixed-time sampling of Bicoid concentration indicate that an accurate readout is impossible within the experimental times. This raises the general issue of how speed-accuracy tradeoffs are achieved. Here, we compare fixed-time to on-the-fly decisions, based on comparing the likelihoods of anterior/posterior locations. We found that these more efficient schemes complete reliable cell fate decisions within the short embryological timescales. We discuss the influence of promoter architectures on decision times and error rates, present concrete examples that rapidly readout the morphogen, and predictions for new experiments. Lastly, we suggest a simple mechanism for RNA production and degradation that approximates the log-likelihood function.
Cryo-EM structures of human ZnT8 in both outward- and inward-facing conformations
Authors: Xue Jing , Xie Tian , Zeng Weizhong , Jiang Youxing , Bai Xiao-chen
Published: July 2020

ZnT8 is a Zn2+/H+ antiporter that belongs to SLC30 family and plays an essential role in regulating Zn2+ accumulation in the insulin secretory granules of pancreatic β cells. However, the Zn2+/H+ exchange mechanism of ZnT8 remains unclear due to the lack of high-resolution structures. Here, we report the cryo-EM structures of human ZnT8 (HsZnT8) in both outward- and inward-facing conformations. HsZnT8 forms a dimeric structure with four Zn2+ binding sites within each subunit: a highly conserved primary site in transmembrane domain (TMD) housing the Zn2+ substrate; an interfacial site between TMD and C-terminal domain (CTD) that modulates the Zn2+ transport activity of HsZnT8; and two adjacent sites buried in the cytosolic domain and chelated by conserved residues from CTD and the His-Cys-His (HCH) motif from the N-terminal segment of the neighboring subunit. A comparison of the outward- and inward-facing structures reveals that the TMD of each HsZnT8 subunit undergoes a large structural rearrangement, allowing for alternating access to the primary Zn2+ site during the transport cycle. Collectively, our studies provide the structural insights into the Zn2+/H+ exchange mechanism of HsZnT8.
Spermatogenesis is normal in Tex33 knockout mice
Authors: Zhu Zhendong , Zhang Xin , Zeng Wentao , Zhao Shuqin , Zhou Jianli , Zhou Zuomin , Liu Mingxi
Published: July 2020

Testis expressed gene 33 (Tex33) is a recently reported testis-specific gene and it is evolutionarily conserved in vertebrates. The Tex33 expression is found in cytoplasm of round spermatids in Mus musculus. However, the in vivo function of Tex33 remains unknown. In this study, we made a 62bp in frame deletion on Exon2 of Tex33 gene by CRISPR/Cas9 in C57B/L6 mouse, which cause frame shift mutation of Tex33 gene. Tex33-/-adult male were fertile, and there is no significant change on litter size compared with male wildtype (Tex33+/+) adult. Besides, no overt differences were found in testis/body weight ratios, testicular/epididymal tissue morphology, sperm counts, sperm morphology and spermatozoa motility in adult Tex33-/-male mice (N = 3), in comparison with Tex33+/+ adult (N = 3). TUNEL assay also indicates the germ cells apoptosis ratio was not significantly changed in adult Tex33-/- adult male mouse testis (N = 3), compared with adult Tex33+/+ male (N = 3). Importantly, the first wave of elongating spermatids formation happens in 5w old mice. We find that the first wave of spermiogenesis is not disrupted in both 5-week-old Tex33+/+ and Tex33-/-male mouse testes and three hallmarks of spermatogenesis, PLZF,γ-H2AX and TNP1, are all detectable in seminiferous tubule. All results indicate that Tex33 is a redundant gene to spermatogenesis. This study can help other researchers avoid repetitive works on redundant genes.
Comparative Study of Antimicrobial Potentials of Leaf and Root Extracts of Calliandra portoricensis (Jacq)-benth (Fabaceae) on Some Human Pathogens
Authors: Oguegbulu N. E. , Abo A. K. , Afieroho O. E.
Published: July 2020

The plant Calliandra portoricesis had been widely used over the years in traditional medicine. Such uses included; treatment of swollen gum, tooth ache and inflammation, worm expeller, viperean venom antidote and more. This investigation was aimed at screening and anti-microbial evaluation of various leaf and root extracts of the plant. By this, explore substitution of root with leaf as excessive root harvesting could lead to shrub extinction. The dried and pulverized samples were subjected to successive extraction using solvents of varying polarities; n-hexane, ethyl acetate and 70% aqueous methanol. The respective extracts were concentrated en vacuo in a rotatory evaporator at temperature not exceeding 40°C. Seven human pathogens were selected comprising the G +ve, G-ve, fungi, group that was known to acquire resistance easily and nosocomial strains namely; Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Streptococus fecalis, Candida albican and Aspergillus nigar. Ciprofloxacin and fluconazole solutions served as the control reference standards. Agar well diffusion assay method was used and the Inhibition Zone Diameters (mm) of growth were measured to assess activities for all the extracts. The Minimum Inhibitory Concenyrations (MIC) and Total Activity (TA) were also determined. The experimental values indicated that both leaf and root materials of this plant exhibited anti bacterial and anti fungal properties on the selected human pathogens especially with respect to the reference control standards at P ≤ 0.05. Except for anthraquinones, the leaf though exhibited weaker activities than root for same quantity of materials showed close similarity in activity pattern. In this sense, with an appropriate quantitative adjustments, leaf material could effectively substitute the root for antimicrobial purposes.
Enxergando os mortos com os ouvidos: a reelaboração da memória da escravidão através da figura umbandista dos pretos-velhos
Authors: Rezende Lívia Lima
Published: July 2020

Tendo como base os conceitos de práticas, representações e apropriação de Roger Chartier, memória coletiva de Maurice Halbwachs e memória subterrânea de Michael Pollak, propõe-se uma análise das formas como a figura umbandista dos pretos-velhos é apropriada atualmente. O estudo, pautado pela metodologia da história oral, permitiu analisar as formas como a experiência de se consultar e conviver regularmente com os pretos-velhos influencia na construção das perspectivas, dos valores e das expectativas desses consulentes, por meio da reelaboração da memória da escravidão negra no Brasil. Foi possível notar, sobretudo, a importância que essas entidades possuem para as pessoas que se reconhecem como negras e estabelecem um vínculo mais próximo com essa figura do escravo sacralizado.

Palavras-chave: umbanda - representação - pretos-velhos - história oral -
 memória.

Abstract

Based on the concepts of practices, representations and appropriation (Roger Chartier), collective memory (Maurice Halbwachs) and underground memory (Michael Pollak), this article analyzes contemporary appropriations of Umbanda’s pretos-velhos (“old black” spirits). Using oral history methodology, it investigates how the experience of regularly visiting and consulting with pretos-velhos informs clients’ constructions of perspectives, values and expectations. The focus is on the re-elaboration of the memory of African slavery in Brazil. The analysis illustrates the importance of these entities for those who recognize themselves as black and who establish in this way a closer bond with this figure of a sacralized slave.

Keywords: umbanda - representation - pretos-velhos - oral history - memory.
Mão de obra chinesa em terras brasileiras nos tempos joaninos: experiências, estranhamentos, contratos, expectativas e lutas
Authors: Mac Cord Marcelo
Published: July 2020

O artigo discorre sobre a presença de trabalhadores chineses no Brasil joanino. Do ponto de vista macro, busca compreender os motivos da vinda dessa mão de obra como uma estratégia de redefinição da importância geopolítica do Império Português, com sua metrópole interiorizada no Rio de Janeiro. E conecta essa peculiaridade conjuntural com os problemas globais que anunciavam o fim do tráfico de africanos escravizados e o fomento do trabalho compulsório. Do ponto de vista micro, procura esmiuçar os contratos firmados entre as partes envolvidas, para que seja possível conhecer as reais expectativas dos sujeitos históricos. Por fim, analisam-se os estranhamentos e as lutas dos chineses para que suas vontades fossem impostas, estivessem elas registradas ou não nos documentos por eles firmados.

Palavras-chave: trabalho compulsório - chineses - período joanino - trabalho global.

Abstract

This paper works on the presence of Chinese workers in Brazil in d. João VI era. From the macro view, it aims at understanding the reasons of the arrival of the man power as a resetting strategy of geopolitical importance of the Portuguese Empire, with its country side metropolis in Rio de Janeiro. And links this conjuncture particularity to the global problems that announced the tragic end of the traffic of African slaves and inputs of the compulsory work. From the micro view, in aims at detailing the agreements entered into between the parties, so it is possible to learn the actual expectations of the history subjects. Finally, we analyze the barriers and the struggles of the Chinese so their wills were imposed, were they registered or not in the documents they signed.

Keywords: indentured labor - Chinese - d. João VI era - global workforce.
Um mapa diaspórico nas tramas do cabelo
Authors: Britto Milena
Published: July 2020

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O “Agrupamento Kissanguela” e a canção no pós-independência em Angola (1975-1979)
Authors: Alves Amanda Palomo
Published: July 2020

Este artigo trata de uma importante fase da música popular urbana de Angola que se dá a partir de 1975. Para tanto, daremos destaque ao surgimento e à produção fonográfica do grupo musical Kissanguela a fim de demonstrar a música como um dos caminhos utilizados para a divulgação dos projetos políticos do Movimento Popular de Libertação de Angola, logo após a independência. As mensagens impressas nas letras das canções gravadas pelo conjunto sinalizam para uma nova época, marcada pelo socialismo e sem reminiscências do passado. Apresentaremos, ainda, as capas dos álbuns, fotografias e depoimentos de membros fundadores do “Kissanguela”, fontes ainda inexploradas em nosso país.
Marx, Freud, fetiche, capitalismo e a religião iorubá
Authors: Dias João Ferreira
Published: July 2020

Resenha de:MATORY, J. Lorand. The Fetish Revisited: Marx, Freud, and the Gods Black People Make. Durham: Duke University Press, 2018. 392p.
A physically meaningful relationship between R50% and PTV surface area in lung SBRT
Authors: Desai Dharmin D. , Cordrey Ivan L. , Johnson E. L.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

We propose a novel understanding of two characteristics of the planning target volume (PTV) that affect the intermediate‐dose spill in lung stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) as measured by R50%. This phantom model research investigates two characteristics of the PTV that have a marked effect on the value of R50%: the mean dose deposited within the PTV (Dav) and the surface area of the PTV (SAPTV).

Methods

Using a phantom model provided by a CT of the IROC Thorax‐Lung Phantom® (IROC Houston QA Center, Houston, TX) and Eclipse® Treatment Planning System (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA), we investigate the two characteristics for spherical and cylindrical PTVs. A total of 135 plans with tightly controlled PTV characteristics are employed. A lower bound for R50% (R50%min∆r) is derived and clearly establishes a relationship between R50% and SAPTV that has not been fully appreciated previously.

Results

The study of PTV Dav revealed a local minimum for R50% as a function of the PTV Dav at Dav ≈ 110% of Rx dose. As PTV Dav increases above this local minimum, R50% increases; while for PTV Dav less than this local minimum, the R50% value also increases. The study of PTV surface area (SAPTV) demonstrated that as the SAPTV increases, the R50% increases if the PTV volume stays the same. The SAPTV result is predicted by the theoretical investigation that yields the R50% lower bound, R50%min∆r.

Conclusions

This research has identified two characteristics of the PTV that have a marked influence on R50%: PTV Dav and SAPTV. These characteristics have not been clearly articulated in the vast body of previous research in SBRT. These results could help explain plans that cannot meet the RTOG criteria for R50%. With further development, these concepts could be extended to provide additional guidance for creating acceptable SBRT plans.
Highly Flexible and Self‐Healable Zinc‐Ion Hybrid Supercapacitors Based on MWCNTs‐RGO Fibers
Authors: Ni Tong , Wang Siliang , Shi Junjie , Du Xiaoyu , Cheng Qinghua , Dong Ziyan , Ruan Limin , Zeng Wei , Guo Xiaohui , Ren Xingang , Huang Zhixiang
Published: July 2020

As the flexible wearable devices are developing rapidly, the requirement for energy storage devices with high energy and power density, excellent flexibility, and high reliability is increasing. Fiber‐shaped supercapacitors offering high power density and excellent flexibility have attracted widespread attention. However, the low energy density and poor reliability limit the practical application of these fiber‐shaped supercapacitors. To overcome these problems, a new zinc‐ion hybrid fiber supercapacitor (ZHFSC) is designed and realized. As both capacitor‐type and battery‐type energy storage mechanisms can be used, the energy density of ZHFSC is expected to be improved. Furthermore, the excellent self‐healability of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/Zn(CF3SO3)2 aqueous gel electrolyte contributes to the high reliability of the ZHFSC. As a proof of concept, the maximum power density and energy density of the ZHFSC are, respectively, as high as 1433.2 mW cm−3 and 13.1 mWh cm−3, and the capacitance retention, respectively, has the high values of 87.8% and 70.5% under the bending degree of 150° and after the fifth self‐healing. This study offers an efficient method to realize the high‐performance supercapacitors for flexible wearable devices in the future.
Electromagnetic Pulse Powered by a Triboelectric Nanogenerator with Applications in Accurate Self‐Powered Sensing and Security
Authors: Zhang Steven L. , Roach Devin J. , Xu Sixing , Wang Peng , Zhang Weiqiang , Qi H. Jerry , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: July 2020

Recent advances in the Internet of Things (IoTs) technology have accelerated the realization of micro or nano systems that necessitate not only the development of a self‐powered sensing system, but also devices that are able to protect personal security. Here, a direct ink write (DIW) 3D‐printed ultrathin fuse is fabricated and coupled with a high performance triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). By triggering the high‐AC voltage TENG with a low‐frequency sliding motion, the fuse, which initially has low resistance, can instantly transition from a short‐circuit state to an open circuit state. Utilizing this method, a variety of self‐powered applications can be realized. Here, the first triboelectric, fully self‐powered system is demonstrated, which can accurately detect package drops without the use of a computing element or an external power source. In addition, by coupling the TENG, 3D printed fuse, and logic circuit elements, a self‐powered security device is developed, in which users are able to quickly change sensitive information if it is at risk of exposure by a single sliding motion on the TENG.
Superhydrophobic Cellulose Paper‐Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Water Drop Energy Harvesting
Authors: Nie Shuangxi , Guo Hengyu , Lu Yanxu , Zhuo Jingting , Mo Jilong , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: July 2020

The high‐efficiency conversion of water drop mechanical energy into electrical energy has always been an urgent issue in the development and utilization of raindrop energy. In this work, a novel drum‐like triboelectric nanogenerator (D‐TENG) with robust self‐cleaning superhydrophobic features is developed to harvest water drop energy. An elastic superhydrophobic cellulose paper is created by spray‐coating nanofumed silica dispersed in a thermoplastic elastomer solution, followed by treatment with triethoxy‐1H,1H,2H,2H‐tridecafluoro‐n‐octylsilane. When raindrops hit the D‐TENG surface, the superhydrophobic cellulose paper will vibrate and periodic contact and separation with polytetrafluoroethylene will occur to generate electricity. The results demonstrate that when a 6 mm water drop falls from a height of 2.5 m and hits the D‐TENG, the generated voltage output can reach a peak of 21.6 V and charge transfer of 10 nC. The output power of the D‐TENG can reach 16 µW per droplet, which is more than 13.3 times that generated from the previous TENGs based on the electrostatic induction of water droplets. These results indicate that the superhydrophobic cellulose paper‐based D‐TENG is potentially a strong candidate for harvesting energy from raindrops, thereby making it a promising sustainable energy source for next‐generation electronics.
Chemosteometric regression models of heat exposed human bones to determine their pre‐burnt metric dimensions
Authors: Gonçalves David , Vassalo Ana R. , Makhoul Calil , Piga Giampaolo , Mamede Adriana P. , Parker Stewart F. , Ferreira Maria T. , Cunha Eugenia , Marques Maria P. M. , de Carvalho Luís A. E. Batista
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Heat exposure can lead to apparently random osteometric changes that hinder the application of metric methods used for biological profiling. The impracticality of using objective and burn‐specific osteometric methods reduces the chances of establishing the biological profiles of unknown individuals based on their skeletal remains. We investigated the potential of chemometry analysis based on infrared spectroscopy to predict the amount of heat‐induced osteometric changes and how this reflected into sex estimation.

Material and methods

Bones from 41 identified adult skeletons (24 females and 17 males with ages between 62 and 90 years old) were experimentally burnt to maximum temperatures ranging from 450°C to 1,100°C (attained after 65 to 240 min). Measurements were taken both before and after each experiment and powder samples were analyzed through FTIR‐ATR. Correlations among heat‐induced metric changes and chemometric indices (crystallinity index; B‐type carbonates; carbonate [A + B] to carbonate B ratio; hydroxyl to phosphate ratio; 630 cm−1, 1450 cm−1, 3572 cm−1, and 3642 cm−1) were tested. Significant variables were used to build regression models to predict heat‐induced metric change which were then tested on an independent set of samples. Agreement in sex estimation between the pre‐ and post‐burnt samples was also evaluated.

Results

All indices were significantly correlated to heat‐induced metric changes (α = .01) and the highest correlations were obtained for the 630 cm−1, 3572 cm−1, and crystallinity index. We confirmed that regression models based on chemometrics obtained from infrared spectra through FTIR‐ATR are better at estimating heat‐induced metric changes affecting bone and at sexing remains than other osteometric methods such as those based on correction factors or on metric references specific to calcined bones.

Discussion

Regression models avoid the subjectivity associated with the application of other methods. While the latter can be applied only to calcined bones, which is difficult to assess sometimes, regression models can be applied to all bones regardless of their condition. Also, regression models have the advantage of allowing to infer about heat‐induced metric change on a case‐by‐case basis.
CeO2 hollow nanosphere for catalytic synthesis of dimethyl carbonate from CO2 and methanol: The effect of cavity effect on catalytic performance
Authors: Zhang Jingyang , Huang Shouying , Zhao Yujun , Ma Xinbin , Wang Shengping
Published: July 2020

Hollow nanosphere structure has a favorable catalytic performance in catalysis. Not only the large specific surface area, excellent mass transfer ability but also the special cavity structure. This particular structure was applied in the direct synthesis of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) from CO2 and methanol. A series of CeO2 hollow spheres of varying sizes and shell numbers were fabricated via a facile hard template method. Large specific surface area and exposed active crystal planes gave it the favorable activity. It is also found that a region with high reactant concentration and high density of active sites can be formed inside the hollow spheres. A hollow sphere model was established to help explore the relationship between cavity structure and activity performance. By using dimensional model and function fitting methods, it is demonstrated that the catalytic activity is positively correlated with the number of active sites in per unit volume of the cavity.
Excavating the unique synergism of nanofibers and carbon black in Natural rubber based tire tread composition
Authors: Parameswaran Surya Koodappuzha , Bhattacharya Sanjay , Mukhopadhyay Rabindra , Naskar Kinsuk , Bhowmick Anil K.
Published: July 2020

The article portrays the synergistic reinforcement of new generation nanofillers such as silicon carbide nanofibers (SiCs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphite nanofibers (GNFs) when used along with carbon black (CB) in a typical tire tread composition. The unique synergism in these composites, which were fabricated by a liquid phase mixing method, was reflected in their enhanced failure resistance and dynamic mechanical properties. At 4 phr loading of the nanofiber, the tensile strength, tear strength, modulus at 300% elongation, storage modulus, rolling resistance, and abrasion resistance were improved by 29, 45, 36, 110, 15, and 14%, respectively. The role of nanofibers in the development of a hybrid microstructure was investigated by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Tribological characteristics were studied using a Laboratory Abrasion Tester (LAT 100), and the abrasion loss of the samples was correlated with energy dissipation occurring during the process. The fatigue properties indicated the ability of the CB‐nanofiber dual filler system to arrest crack growth. The study also serves to establish a correlation between the wear loss and fatigue properties of the hybrid nanocomposites containing different fibrous nanofillers. A mechanism of reinforcement by hybrid fillers is proposed.