bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Different Migratory Game Bird Hunter Types to Explore Drivers of Support for Hunter Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation Policies in North Carolina, USA
Authors: Rubino Elena C. , Serenari Christopher
Published: March 2022

Policies designed to retain, recruit, and reactivate hunters have been developed to stimulate a range of motivations, although knowledge of which hunter types are more driven by various motivations remains deficient. To help fill this gap, we use survey responses from two types of migratory bird hunters in North Carolina as a case study to better understand hunter attitudes towards and motivational drivers of support for/opposition against the Sunday hunting of migratory birds. The results indicate that support for the legalization of Sunday migratory waterfowl hunting was driven by the importance of including as many weekends as possible each season, beliefs about increasing youth participation, and the potential for economic benefits, whereas opposition was driven by the importance of providing time for waterfowl to rest from hunting pressure. Opposition to the legalization of Sunday webless migratory bird hunting was driven by the belief that legalization may harm webless migratory bird populations. These findings provide agencies with an understanding of the differences in migratory waterfowl and webless migratory bird hunters’ motivations and encourage the inclusion of both social and ecological motivations when designing recruitment, retention, and reactivation policies.
Compressive Strength of Stabilised Granitic Residual Soil Using Mixture of Pineapple Fibre—Hydrated Lime
Authors: Md Yusof Zeety , Al-Adhami Abdullah Mahgoob Yahya , Mohd Matore Mohd Effendi Ewan
Published: March 2022

Granitic Residual Soil (GRS), referring to the weathered soil from rocks, widely exists all over the world, especially in tropical regions. This type of soil is considered weak for construction due to unsaturated soils and the fact that granitic soil properties can vary from one location to another during formation. As a result, soil stabilisation is necessary. In Malaysia, pineapple fibre (PA fibre) is one of the most widely available waste materials. Chemical stabilisation technology is an attractive stabilisation technique that has been successfully used as a soil stabilising agent for many years. Hydrated lime (HL) is an activation agent and is very commonly used to replace cement application in soil stabilisation. Utilising HL and PA fibre as a soil stabilising agent is an economical and sustainable option as HL contains high pozzolanic characteristics that make it more suitable and reliable to stabilise soil, and PA fibre has high specific stiffness and strength. This study uses the replacement portion of the GRS with stabilising agents—HL and PA fibre, aiming to achieve Malaysia’s green technology goals by balancing economic expansion and environmental privilege. However, the aim of this study is to determine the effect of HL–PA fibre mixture replacement on the performance of mechanical and physical properties enhancements of GRS. GRS is the control sample whereas HL and PA fibre are used as binders. The unconfined compressive strength with the curing period was tested. The result showed that for untreated GRS, the moisture content, Atterberg limit, and specific gravity were 9.44%, 37.3%, and 2.3%, respectively, while the maximum dry density was 1.55 g/cm3 and the optimum moisture was 13.5%, according to the compaction test. Due to weathering conditions, the soil was classified using the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) as well-graded sand soil, based on the sieve analysis. Sieved soil of 2 mm was used to stabilise the GRS mix with HL and PA fibre. The resulting UCS showed that 0 curing days increased strength by 31%, while 7 curing days increased strength by 26% before decreasing the strength by 8.4% to 9%.
Assessment of Street Tree Diversity, Structure and Protection in Planned and Unplanned Neighborhoods of Lubumbashi City (DR Congo)
Authors: Useni Sikuzani Yannick , Mpibwe Kalenga Alex , Yona Mleci Jonas , N’Tambwe Nghonda Dieudonné , Malaisse François , Bogaert Jan
Published: March 2022

Street trees are always considered a vital part of urban green infrastructure in urbanized areas through mitigating the negative effects caused by urbanization taking part in human well-being. However, little is still known about their diversity, structure and protection, mostly in Lubumbashi city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo), where the pace of urbanization is not only rapid but also unplanned. In this study, using an inventory, we have characterized the diversity, structure and protection measures of street trees along a land-use planning gradient in Lubumbashi for both planned and unplanned neighborhoods. From the results, a total of 1596 trees were encountered, comprising 40 species, 33 genera and 17 families, mostly dominated by exotic species (65%). In addition, most of the studied trees (63%) belonged to four species only (Jacaranda mimosifolia, Leucaena leucocephala, Mangifera indica, and Acacia auriculiformis) with Leucaena leucocephala and Jacaranda mimosifolia being highly represented in unplanned and planned neighborhoods, respectively. The most abundant diameter classes in the planned neighborhoods were those with at most 10 cm against the classes larger than 50 cm in the planned neighborhoods. In both neighborhoods, trees with protection equipment represent less than 35%. Furthermore, in planned neighborhoods notably, nearly half of the observed equipment is in a good condition. Despite the benefits associated with street trees, there is a need to reduce the proportion of exotic tree species by planting native utilitarian tree species.
The Moderating Roles of Destination Regeneration and Place Attachment in How Destination Image Affects Revisit Intention: A Case Study of Incheon Metropolitan City
Authors: Nam Suyeon , Oh Yejin , Hong Seungri , Lee Seungwon , Kim Woo-Hyuk
Published: March 2022

We aimed to elucidate both the relationship between destination image and revisit intention and the importance of destination regeneration and place attachment in that relationship. Data were collected from a consumer who visited the destination, after which a total of 200 usable surveys were analyzed. In order to examine the data, we employed structural analysis using AMOS. Based on the results, first, there is a positive relationship between destination image and revisit intention. In addition, there are significant moderating effects of destination regeneration and place attachment between destination image and revisit intention. Those significant findings could contribute to destination development from destination regeneration and place attachment.
Geochemical and Morphological Evaluations of Organic and Mineral Aerosols in Coal Mining Areas: A Case Study of Santa Catarina, Brazil
Authors: Akinyemi Segun A. , Oliveira Marcos L. S. , Nyakuma Bemgba B. , Dotto Guilherme L.
Published: March 2022

Numerous researchers have described the correlation between the short-term contact of nano-particulate (NP) matter in diverse coal phases and amplified death or hospitalizations for breathing disorders in humans. However, few reports have examined the short-term consequences of source-specific nanoparticles (NPs) on coal mining areas. Advanced microscopic techniques can detect the ultra-fine particles (UFPs) and nanoparticles that contain potential hazardous elements (PHEs) generated in coal mining areas. Secondary aerosols that cause multiple and complex groups of particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5, PM1) can be collected on dry deposition. In this study, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) were employed to detect and define the magnitude of particulate matters on restaurants walls at coal mines due to weathering interactions. The low cost self-made passive sampler (SMPS) documented several minerals and amorphous phases. The results showed that most of the detected coal minerals exist in combined form as numerous complexes comprising significant elements (e.g., Al, C, Fe, K, Mg, S, and Ti), whereas others exist as amorphous or organic compounds. Based on the analytical approach, the study findings present a comprehensive understanding of existing potential hazardous elements in the nanoparticles and ultrafine particles from coal mining areas in Brazil.
Who Decides and Who Invests? The Role of the Public, Private and Third Sectors in Rural Development according to Geographical Contexts: The LEADER Approach in Andalusia, 2007–2015
Authors: Cejudo-García Eugenio , Navarro-Valverde Francisco , Cañete-Pérez José Antonio
Published: March 2022

In general, the LEADER programme has had a positive impact, although it has also negative aspects. In this paper, we analyse the role of the three main stakeholders (public sector, private sector and third sector) within the LEADER local action groups (LAGs) in the decision-making process and final execution of the projects, to discover whether there is any relation between those taking the decisions and those carrying out the projects, according to the degree of rurality of the different areas. Our primary source was the files for all the successfully implemented LEADER projects in Andalusia between 2007 and 2015. Relevant findings are: although the public sector plays a leading role in the LAGs and in the decision-making process, most of the projects, as measured by total investment, are carried out by the private sector; the degree of rurality is an important factor, in that private sector investors tend to invest in peri-urban spaces, while public bodies, and especially local councils, invest in remote rural areas. The LAGs play a strategic role, in terms of making up for the almost negligible input from the third sector.
Exploring a Sustainable Approach to Vernacular Dwelling Spaces with a Multiple Evidence Base Method: A Case Study of the Bai People’s Courtyard Houses in China
Authors: Li Zhou , Diao Jiahui , Lu Shaoming , Tao Cong , Krauth Jonathan
Published: March 2022

Both socio-cultural connotations and environmental adaptation are significant for the sustainable development of vernacular dwellings. Previous studies on the sustainable development of vernacular dwellings have mainly focused on either the interaction between physical form and socio-cultural logic or between physical form and environmental adaptation separately. Simultaneously, these studies have mainly discussed the physical condition of vernacular dwellings while ignoring the evolution of the space characteristics of vernacular dwellings. To further understand the sustainable development of vernacular dwelling spaces, this research adopted a “multiple evidence base” method to bring together the socio-cultural connotations of vernacular dwelling spaces and their adaptation to the natural environment. Space syntax theory and Ecotect software were deployed to analyze the socio-cultural logic and to simulate the light environment for environmental adaptation analysis. The Bai people’s courtyard houses in Gusheng village, Dali, Yunnan province were selected to conduct the fieldwork. The results reveal that ongoing social structures are prominent features for the socio-cultural connotations of the Bai people’s vernacular dwellings; the upper floor indoor lighting level has increased while the courtyard scale and the orientation of the dwellings remain unchanged in contemporary Bai people’s dwellings; there is a high synergistic relationship between the traditional living form and socio-culture as well as the natural environment in the traditional vernacular dwellings; the contemporary Bai people’s dwellings continue the living form and socio-culture while moderately adjusting the natural factors based on the modern way of life for sustainable development. This study hence extends the existing knowledge found in the literature and provides a more complete understanding of the sustainable approach to vernacular dwelling spaces.
Advancing Wildlife Policy of Eastern Timber Wolves and Lake Sturgeon through Traditional Ecological Knowledge
Authors: Schley Hannah , West Ilene , Williams Christopher
Published: March 2022

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) is becoming more prominent in wildlife management decisions and policy making. The cooperation of TEK and Western science paradigms have been beneficial for conserving our natural resources and wildlife populations. However, there are still concerns with accepting TEK as part of wildlife management, policy, and regulations. With increasing challenges to wildlife conservation, it is vital to implement Indigenous TEK to form more robust and holistic approaches to wildlife management. Here, we present two case studies in the upper Midwest region of the United States involving the Ojibwe tribe that show the importance of TEK collaboration and how that knowledge can be used for the betterment of ecologically sensitive species—lake sturgeon and eastern timber wolves.
Sustainable Entrepreneurship: Mapping the Business Landscape for the Last 20 Years
Authors: Tunçalp Deniz , Yıldırım Nihan
Published: March 2022

Sustainable entrepreneurship is venturing to shift business practices towards environmental and social sustainability. It gained popularity worldwide, particularly in the US, due to promoting regulations for some sustainability areas, the high availability of impact investment, and the large-scale entrepreneurial ecosystem of the country. However, the literature does not explain what sustainable entrepreneurs undertake in business. This paper investigates (1) what the coverage of sustainable entrepreneurship is, (2) how this coverage has changed in the last 20 years, and (3) which sustainable development goals (SDGs) sustainable entrepreneurs serve. For these questions, the study analyses keyword co-occurrences of companies (n = 2004) from 72 countries and regions listed on the CrunchBase database with sustainability identification. The study shows differences in coverage and changes between the US and the other countries in the last 20 years. The study maps sustainable entrepreneurs to the SDGs they primarily serve, analysing their descriptions and websites. It identifies the distribution of sustainable entrepreneurs over SDGs, locating more popular and less popular SDGs. The paper invites several research streams on sustainable entrepreneurship and suggests policies to promote SDGs among sustainable entrepreneurs.
A Review of Trends in the Energy Use of Biomass: The Case of the Dominican Republic
Authors: Guzmán-Bello Hugo , López-Díaz Iosvani , Aybar-Mejía Miguel , de Frias Jose Atilio
Published: March 2022

This review examines the use of residual biomass as a renewable resource for energy generation in the Dominican Republic. The odology includes a thorough examination of scientific publications in recent years about logistics operations. The use of mathematical models can be beneficial for the selection of areas with a high number of residual biomass and processing centers; for the design of feedstock allocation; for the planning and selection of the mode of transport; and for the optimization of the supply chain, logistics, cost estimation, availability of resources, energy efficiency, economic performance, and environmental impact assessment. It is also essential to consider the exhaustive analysis of the most viable technological solutions among the conversion processes, in order to guarantee the minimum emissions of polluting or greenhouse gases. In addition, this document provides a critical review of the most relevant challenges that are currently facing logistics linked to the assessment of biomass in the Dominican Republic, with a straightforward approach to the complementarity and integration of non-manageable renewable energy sources.
An Assessment of the Effectiveness of Weather Information Dissemination among Farmers and Policy Makers
Authors: Sansa-Otim Julianne , Nsabagwa Mary , Mwesigwa Andrew , Faith Becky , Owoseni Mojisola , Osuolale Olayinka , Mboma Daudi , Khemis Ben , Albino Peter , Ansah Samuel Owusu , Ahiataku Maureen Abla , Owusu-Tawia Victoria , Bashiru Yahaya , Mugume Isaac , Akol Roseline , Kunya Nathern , Odongo Ronald Inguula
Published: March 2022

The changing environment, climate, and the increasing manifestation of disasters, has generated an increased demand for accurate and timely weather information. This information is provided by the National meteorological authorities (NMAs) through different dissemination channels e.g., using radios, Televisions, emails among others. The use of ICTs to provide weather information is recently gaining popularity. A study was conducted in three countries, namely Nigeria, Uganda, and South Sudan to assess the efficiency of an ICT tool, known as “Weather Information Dissemination System”. The study involved 254 participants (Uganda: 71; South Sudan: 133; and Nigeria: 50). The collected primary data were first quality controlled and organized thematically for detailed analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to provide quantitative analysis as well as content scrutinized for qualitative analysis. The results showed that there is a need for timely weather information to plan farming activities such as planting and application of fertilizers and pesticides as well as to manage flood and drought by the water sector and disaster management. Results further showed that the majority of the respondents have access to the technology needed to access weather and climate information. The respondents who received weather information from NMAs noted that the forecast was good. However, they further noted that there is more room for improvement especially with making the forecasts location-specific, ensuring mobile access is adequate in all regions, provision of weather information by SMS (in countries where this service is currently unavailable) and improved timing of the weather information. Finally, uncertainty about the accuracy of weather information and the weather information not meeting specific needs are key barriers to people’s willingness to pay for it (Uganda: 33.3%; South Sudan: 46.1%; and Nigeria: 33.3%). Improved collaborations between the NMAs, ICT service providers, policymakers and farmers will facilitate an effective approach to weather information access and dissemination. Innovative sensitization approaches through the media houses will enable better understanding of weather products and utilization, and access to enabling ICTs would increase access to weather forecasts
Geometric Structures Generated by the Same Dynamics. Recent Results and Challenges
Authors: Ayala Víctor , Da Silva Adriano , Ayala José
Published: March 2022

The main contribution of this review is to show some relevant relationships between three geometric structures on a connected Lie group G, generated by the same dynamics. Namely, Linear Control Systems, Almost Riemannian Structures, and Degenerate Dynamical Systems. These notions are generated by two ordinary differential equations on G: linear and invariant vector fields. A linear vector field on G is determined by its flow, a 1-parameter group of Aut(G), the Lie group of G-automorphisms. An invariant vector field is just an element of the Lie algebra g of G. The Jouan Equivalence Theorem and the Pontryagin Maximum Principal are instrumental in this setup, allowing the extension of results from Lie groups to arbitrary manifolds for the same kind of structures which satisfy the Lie algebra finitude condition. For each structure, we present the first given examples; these examples generate the systems in the plane. Next, we introduce a general definition for these geometric structures on Euclidean spaces and G. We describe recent results of the theory. As an additional contribution, we conclude by formulating a list of open problems and challenges on these geometric structures. Since the involved dynamic comes from algebraic structures on Lie groups, symmetries are present throughout the paper.
Evolution of Microstructure, Texture and Corrosion Properties of Additively Manufactured AlSi10Mg Alloy Subjected to Equal Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP)
Authors: Snopiński Przemysław , Woźniak Anna , Łukowiec Dariusz , Matus Krzysztof , Tański Tomasz , Rusz Stanislav , Hilšer Ondřej
Published: March 2022

In the selective laser melting process (SLM), the region irradiated by the laser beam is melted and quickly solidified, forming solidification lines (laser scan tracks) with symmetrical shapes. Because of the unique (rapid) crystallization conditions, the subgrain structures, typically observed inside these solidification lines, could also have variable geometric symmetrical patterns, e.g., cellular, pentagonal, or hexagonal cellular. The existence of such distinctive microstructures in SLM-made alloys has a significant impact on their superior mechanical and corrosion properties. Thus, any modification of this symmetrical microstructure (due to post-processing) can degrade or improve the properties of SLM-fabricated alloys. This study presents the experimental results on the effects of heat treatment and ECAP on microstructure modification and corrosion behavior of SLM-fabricated AlSi10Mg alloy. Light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used for microstructural analysis. The corrosion properties of the given samples were determined using open-circuit potential (OCP), potentiodynamic polarization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. EBSD observations showed that the imposed strain resulted in an obvious reduction in grain size to ~1.42 µm and ~0.24 µm after the first and second ECAP passes, respectively. Electrochemical tests revealed that the corrosion resistance of the ECAP-processed AlSi10Mg alloy improved significantly, which was confirmed by a nobler Ecorr and lower Icorr values, and higher polarization resistance. The final results indicated that the strain-induced crystalline defects provided more nucleation sites for the formation of a denser and thicker oxide film, thus enhancing the corrosion resistance of the AlSi10Mg alloy.
Exploration of Trauma-Oriented Retreats: Quantitative Changes in Mental Health Measures for Canadian Military Members, Veterans and Royal Canadian Mounted Police with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Moral Injury
Authors: Smith-MacDonald Lorraine , Pike Ashley , Jones Chelsea , Bremault-Phillips Suzette
Published: March 2022

Background: Military members, veterans, and public safety personnel have been noted to have a higher risk of exposure to potentially traumatic events and potentially morally injurious events resulting in operational stress injuries (OSI) such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and moral injury (MI). Treatments that can quickly and effectively address these conditions are desperately needed. The purpose of this research was to identify the impact of participation in a non-evidence-based trauma-oriented retreat for the above populations experiencing PTSD and MI. Methods: This study was an embedded mixed-methods longitudinal study with parallel repeated quantitative measures designed to evaluate outcomes at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after completion of the retreat. Results: Analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in self-reported symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, stress, depression, MI, anger, and emotional dysregulation pre/post-retreat, and an increase in resilience. Self-reported longitudinal results did not see a change in symptom scores, with participants continuing to maintain their clinical diagnoses post-retreat. Conclusions: The results from this study illustrate that trauma-oriented retreats may be a complementary treatment modality for OSI-related conditions but should not be seen as a first-line treatment option. Program evaluation, determination of the evidence-based nature of retreats, and standardization are yet needed.
Update of the Potential Treatments for Psychiatric and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in the Context of the Post-COVID-19 Condition: Still a Lot of Suffering and Many More Things to Learn
Authors: Benzakour Lamyae , Bondolfi Guido
Published: March 2022

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) has defined a post-COVID-19 condition. Some of these symptoms can be categorized as psychiatric long COVID-19 if they appeared in the aftermath of COVID-19, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, somatic symptoms disorders such as hyperventilation syndrome, fatigue, cognitive and sleep disorders. Psychiatric and neuropsychiatric post-COVID-19 present mental health specialists with difficult challenges because of its complexity and the multiple ways in which it integrates into a singular somatic context. Methods: We conducted a systematic research paradigm from SARS-CoV-2 using LitCOVID and Web of Science to search management strategies and potential treatments for psychiatric post-COVID-19 symptoms. Results: Management strategies must be based on a multidisciplinary approach to promote the global evaluation of psychiatric and physical symptoms, systematic detection and prevention. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors appear to be the best choice to treat post-COVID-19 depression and anxiety disorders, and tofisopam could be helpful for anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy techniques adjusted to post-COVID-19 fatigue, functional remediation, extracorporeal apheresis, transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation, monoclonal antibodies, flavonoids, oxytocin or L-carnitine all represent hypothetical therapeutic avenues that remain to be evaluated in clinical trials. Conclusions: Psychiatric and neuropsychiatric post-COVID-19 symptoms occur frequently and are debilitating. Attention should be paid to this condition and studies undertaken to specify the effective treatments.
Human Adenovirus Type 26 Induced IL-6 Gene Expression in an αvβ3 Integrin- and NF-κB-Dependent Manner
Authors: Nestić Davor , Božinović Ksenija , Drašković Isabela , Kovačević Alen , van den Bosch Jolien , Knežević Jelena , Custers Jerome , Ambriović-Ristov Andreja , Majhen Dragomira
Published: March 2022

The low seroprevalent human adenovirus type 26 (HAdV26)-based vaccine vector was the first adenovirus-based vector to receive marketing authorization from European Commission. HAdV26-based vaccine vectors induce durable humoral and cellular immune responses and, as such, represent a highly valuable tool for fighting infectious diseases. Despite well-described immunogenicity in vivo, the basic biology of HAdV26 still needs some refinement. The aim of this study was to determine the pro-inflammatory cytokine profile of epithelial cells infected with HAdV26 and then investigate the underlying molecular mechanism. The expression of studied genes and proteins was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Confocal microscopy was used to visualize HAdV26 cell uptake. We found that HAdV26 infection in human epithelial cells triggers the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, namely IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, and TNF-α, with the most pronounced difference shown for IL-6. We investigated the underlying molecular mechanism and observed that HAdV26-induced IL-6 gene expression is αvβ3 integrin dependent and NF-κB mediated. Our findings provide new data regarding pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine expression in HAdV26-infected epithelial cells, as well as details concerning HAdV26-induced host signaling pathways. Information obtained within this research increases our current knowledge of HAdV26 basic biology and, as such, can contribute to further development of HAdV26-based vaccine vectors.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Diverse Groups in the UK—Is the Driver Economic or Cultural in Student Populations
Authors: Drobniewski Francis , Kusuma Dian , Broda Agnieszka , Castro-Sánchez Enrique , Ahmad Raheelah
Published: March 2022

Studies have identified a greater reluctance for members of the Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities to be vaccinated against COVID-19 despite a higher probability of greater harm from COVID-19. We conducted an anonymised questionnaire-based study of students (recruiting primarily before first reports of embolic events) at two London universities to identify whether economic or educational levels were primarily responsible for this reluctance: a postgraduate core group (PGCC) n = 860, and a pilot study of undergraduate medical and nursing students (n = 103). Asian and Black students were 2.0 and 3.2 times (PGCC) less likely to accept the COVID vaccine than White British students. Similar findings were noted in the pilot study students. As the students were studying for Master’s or PhD degrees and voluntarily paying high fees, educational and economic reasons were unlikely to be the underlying cause, and wider cultural reservations were more likely. Politicians exerted a strong negative influence, suggesting that campaigns should omit politicians.
Aspects culturels au Paléolithique moyen
Authors: Otte Marcel
Published: March 2022

L’homme du Moustérien fut très proche de nous : depuis longtemps il avait franchi les barrières biologiques qui nous séparent de l’animalité et tout son comportement fut exclusivement fondé sur ses relations d’ordre culturel. Des cultures aussi puissantes que celles du Moustérien ont traversé des centaines de millénaires, démontrant leurs aptitudes à l’adaptation. Les sociétés humaines fonctionnent et ont toujours fonctionné de la sorte. Ceci implique une profonde déstabilisation au contact des Hommes modernes, justifiant des différentes formes d’acculturation, attestées par l’archéologie et analogues à celles subies par le Tiers-Monde lors de la colonisation.
The lost art. An overview on the Romanian Palaeolithic art
Authors: Dumitru Florin
Published: March 2022

At the moment, a simple inventory of the objects that can be considered „art” objects or presenting intentional traces of processing without having a utilitarian motivation found in Romania would include 65 objects. Out of these, almost a quarter (23%) has disappeared. Nothing is known about the existence of the ten objects discovered before 1940. Among the existent 50 objects, more than a half (33) was discovered after 1990. Thus we can state that more than half of the Palaeolithic artistic objects existent on the Romanian territory were discovered in the last 15 years.
A clay pot with tamga signs discovered at Şiria (Arad county)
Authors: Berzovan Alexandru , Pădureanu Eugen D.
Published: March 2022

Our interest regarding the ancient Dacian finds from the Arad county has determined us to make a systematization of all the available data and to re-asses the discoveries previsously known in the light of the informations available and novative directions of investigations. In this work, we will present an interesting artifact discovered 37 years ago in the village of Şiria (Arad county). In 1973, during a field investigation, professor Florian Dudaş has found, near the outskirst of

Şiria, a number of shards from a single large clay pot, having incised signs on them. According to professor Florian Dudaş, the pottery shards where found in a clough located on the southern side of the acces road to the summit of Cetatii Hill. In October 2010, we have made an extensive field research near the town of Siria, at the foothils of Cetatii Hill, in order to locate the exact position of the archaeologicall objective where Dudaş had found the incised shards. Unfortunately, we where not able to locate the objective. It might be possible that due to the extensive slumping and landsliding which affects this side of the hill, the local micro-topography could have changed significantly in the last three decades. The ceramic fragments discovered are parts of a large, clumsily executed, hand-made vessel used probably to store provisions. Before burning, five distinctive signs have been etched in its surface. Florian Dudas, who found the vessel, based on etnographic analogies he conducted, has come to the conclusion that the five signs could represent a commercial tally. We believe, based on the analogies and information we have at our disposal, that the five signs are rather Tamga signs. The origin and functionality of the Tamga signs is quite controversial, with some authors believing them to have had their origin in Central Asia, and others attributing their origin to the Iranian region (Asia Minor and Achaemenian Empire). In the North-Pontic area, the Tamga-type signs are used for the first time by the Sarmatian tribes. Through them, the signs start being used in the second half of the Ist Century B. C. in the Bosphoran Kingdom, and starting with the Ist Century A. D., in pre-Roman Dacia. In the Dacian area, Tamga-type signs are utilized both in during the independent kingdom’s period (Ist century AD) as well as in the II-IV A. D by some of the „ free” Dacian tribes mixed with Sarmatians. The Iaziges Sarmatians from the Pannonian Planes do not seem to have used tamga signs frequently. The lack of archeological context and the relatively common shape of the vessel have not allowed for a precise dating. The vessel could have been made at any point between the Ist and IIIrd A. D. Regarding the incised signs, there are numerous similar sings to be found in the North-Pontic area. The significance of these particular signs is difficult to establish at this stage in our research. Our opinion is that they might have had magical functions.
Virtual Prehistory portable art collection of Siberian Mal’ta-Buret’ culture: ways of documenting, classification and representation
Authors: Lbova Lyudmila , V. Kazakov Vladislav , E. Rostiazhenko Tatiana
Published: March 2022

Modern research of museum archaeological collections, their attribution and digitizing are relevant questions of science, culture, and education in the world. The paper presents archaeological materials of the Siberian Upper Paleolithic sites Mal’ta and Buret’ and the ways of their systematization and documentation in a form of an information system on the internet. The system has a full-fledged item attribution, scientific description and extensive multimedia support including 3D models and macro photographs. The collections were obtained during the excavations under the direction of M. M. Gerasimov and A. P. Okladnikov, carried out in the early to mid-20th century ; the unique artifacts from the collections are kept in the funds of various museums in different cities of Russia (Moscow, St. Petersburg, Irkutsk) in a scattered and unsystematic form. Our project is aimed to the developing of the documentation of unique items from the collection of the Upper Paleolithic Mal’ta-Buret’ archaeological culture and presenting the results in a systematic way with visual materials. The collection includes a number of anthropomorphic, zoomorphic, ornithomorphic figurines, ornamented discs and plates, as well as items of personal ornamentation, and other unique artefacts. As part of the project, we took photographs and macro photographs of the objects, their 3D models using the photogrammetry method, made a detailed description and collected all available publications on them, both modern and the earliest. The art objects of the fragmented collection are systematized and presented in the form of a single virtual collection on the Internet – Information System of Mal’ta and Buret’ Mobile Art. Descriptions, photographic images and three-dimensional models of objects, the results of microscopic studies and trace analysis have been published.
Iron Supplementation Improves Skeletal Muscle Contractile Properties in Mice with CKD
Authors: Momb Brent A. , Patino Edwin , Akchurin Oleh M. , Miller Mark S.
Published: March 2022

Key Points

CKD in mice decreased single skeletal muscle fiber force production independent of fiber size.

Iron supplementation in CKD mice improved aspects of contractile function, indicating CKD myopathy was partially mediated by iron imbalance.

Our findings in mice suggest that timely correction of iron imbalance and anemia may improve muscle fiber function in patients with CKD.

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) frequently have compromised physical performance, which increases their mortality; however, their skeletal muscle dysfunction has not been characterized at the single-fiber and molecular levels. Notably, interventions to mitigate CKD myopathy are scarce.

Methods

The effect of CKD in the absence and presence of iron supplementation on the contractile function of individual skeletal muscle fibers from the soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscles was evaluated in 16-week-old mice. CKD was induced by the adenine diet, and iron supplementation was by weekly iron dextran injections.

Results

Maximally activated and fatigued fiber force production was decreased 24%–52% in untreated CKD, independent of size, by reducing strongly bound myosin/actin cross-bridges and/or decreasing myofilament stiffness in myosin heavy chain (MHC) I, IIA, and IIB fibers. Additionally, myosin/actin interactions in untreated CKD were slower for MHC I and IIA fibers and unchanged or faster in MHC IIB fibers. Iron supplementation improved anemia and did not change overall muscle mass in CKD mice. Iron supplementation ameliorated CKD-induced myopathy by increasing strongly bound cross-bridges, leading to improved specific tension, and/or returning the rate of myosin/actin interactions toward or equivalent to control values in MHC IIA and IIB fibers.

Conclusions

Skeletal muscle force production was significantly reduced in untreated CKD, independent of fiber size, indicating that compromised physical function in patients is not solely due to muscle mass loss. Iron supplementation improved multiple aspects of CKD-induced myopathy, suggesting that timely correction of iron imbalance may aid in ameliorating contractile deficits in CKD patients.
Manifestações racistas no contexto escolar
Authors: Pastoriza Ronildo Neumann
Published: March 2022

Este artigo abordou as manifestações racistas no contexto escolar em uma Escola Municipal de Porto Alegre-RS. A relevância desse estudo surgiu a partir da atuação do autor como Diretor desta escola. Durante este mandato, muitas situações foram causando inquietações. A principal delas dizia respeito a queixas de alunos negros, que se sentiam desconfortáveis, incomodados e agredidos, quando colegas se referiam a eles por apelidos étnico-raciais que faziam alusão a cor de sua pele, aos seus traços físicos e até mesmo a sua religiosidade e sexualidade. Através de uma pesquisa qualitativa, esse estudo analisou criticamente essas manifestações, não enquadrando-as como simples brincadeiras entre colegas, mas formas de mecanismos de atuação do racismo e do preconceito se capilarizando no âmbito escolar, com a intenção de macular a imagem dos alunos negros. Também utilizamos uma retrospectiva histórica sobre a história do racismo no Brasil e as várias maneiras de negação do direito negro a educação, ao longo da história do país. A metodologia utilizada foi a entrevista semiestruturada com os alunos ofendidos e, também, com seus agressores, além de acompanhar esses alunos nos espaços físicos da escola, mapeando suas movimentações e diálogos. A partir da constatação dessas manifestações racistas e, após amplos debates com toda a comunidade escolar, a instituição tomou providências pedagógicas de combate a essas práticas discriminatórias. O diálogo, a conscientização de alunos vítimas e alunos agressores, além da valorização da estética negra, foram os pilares metodológicos utilizados para o enfrentamento dessas manifestações preconceituosas, narradas pelos alunos afrodescendentes.
Effect of Nitro-Iodyl Group Replacement on TNT - A DFT Treatment
Authors: Türker Lemi
Published: March 2022

The present density functional treatment (B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p)) within the restrictions of the theory and the basis set employed, considers perturbational effects at the molecular level by the replacement of one of the nitro groups of 2,4,6-trinitro toluene (TNT) with iodyl moiety. The process yield two iodyl isomers which are stable electronically and structurally. Various quantum chemical, IR and UV-VIS spectral properties are investigated and compared with the respective values of TNT. The nitro-iodyl group replacement causes narrowing of the interfrontier molecular orbital gap and increases the impact sensitivity of the systems considered.
Certain Results on Bicomplex Matrices
Authors: Anjali Anjali , Amita Amita
Published: March 2022

This paper begins the study of bicomplex matrices. In this paper, we have defined bicomplex matrices, determinant of a bicomplex square matrix and singular and non-singular matrices in C2. We have proved that the set of all bicomplex square matrices of order n is an algebra.We have given some definitions and results regarding adjoint and inverse of a matrix in C2. We have defined three types of conjugates and three types of tranjugates of a bicomplex matrix. With the help of these conjugates and tranjugates, we have also definedsym metric and skew - symmetric matrices, Hermitian and Skew - Hermitian matrices in C2.
Older adults in the Internet – Internet addiction and its intrapsychic correlates
Authors: Wójciak Aleksandra
Published: March 2022

The aim of the study was to verify the relationship between Problematic Using of the Internet and its selected intrapsychic correlates in a group of people in late adulthood. The analyses conducted so far respond to an insufficient number of domestic and foreign publications on this subject.

Statistical analysis was applied to the results of the study carried out among a group of 44 seniors (the average age 67 years old). The control group consisted of 41 middle adults (the average age was 35). The study applied: Test of Problematic Using of the Internet, Coping Inventory - Mini-COPE, The IPIP-BFM-20 Questionnaire and Brief Resilience Coping Scale. The results of the study have shown a significant correlation between the problematic using of the Internet (PUI) in the surveyed group of seniors and specific strategies of dealing with stress: self-blame (p<0,05, r=0,363) and venting (p<0,05, r=0,354). Moreover, a significant negative correlation between PUI and the personality trait emotional stability has been found among people in late adulthood (p<0,01, r=-0,416). The regression analysis with simultaneous variable selection conducted to broaden the results of the correlation analyses has shown that the tested model is a significant predictor of the Problematic Using of the Internet (PUI). To be exact, the significant PUI predictors are coping strategies: using drugs and the personality trait conscientiousness. It is worth mentioning that the results of the conducted study could constitute an important guideline for developing effective preventive measures addressed to people in late adulthood.
The age of partners and the duration of the relationship versus the quality of close emotional relationships
Authors: Jarecka Karolina
Published: March 2022

The quality of emotional relationships depends on the individual characteristics of the partners but, above all, on the relational factors responsible for integrating or risking disintegrating the relationship. Their assessment requires taking a time perspective into account. Each lasting relationship experiences changes in its quality, which may be related to the age of the partners and the time of their life together.

The aim of the research was to assess the connection between the age of partners and the length of their relationship and the quality of close relationships, including mutual communication, intimacy and conflict behaviour. They are recognised as key to the quality of the relationship, but it is still open to question how they change over time.

The study involved 696 people aged 20-68, including 360 women and 336 men. The respondents were classified into three groups significant for human development, including 16-year age ranges. In the first group, there were 240 people aged 20-35 years (i.e., in early adulthood), the second group consisted of 276 people aged 36-51 years (which is considered appropriate for middle adulthood), and the third group of 180 people aged 52-68 (i.e., in the period associated with the second half of middle age and entering late adulthood).  The respondents were in a lasting relationship from one year to 47 years.

The research used a socio-demographic survey questionnaire and K. Halweg's Partner Relations Questionnaire in the Polish adaptation of I. Janicka.

It was found that with the age of the partners and duration of the relationship, the number of conflict behaviours increase and the intimacy and mutual communication important for its integration weakens. The most vulnerable to these types of changes are spouses in the second half of middle adulthood and entering old age. Potential processes driving these findings are discussed.

The age of the partners and the related seniority of the relationship may lead to changes in its quality. However, they cannot be regarded as sufficient to assess changes in close relationships.
Family, material and worldview values and the process of intergenerational transmission
Authors: Walęcka-Matyja Katarzyna Kamila
Published: March 2022

The aim of the research was to analyze the relationships between family and material values and the worldview of parents and their adult children. 68 parents (34 women and 34 men) and their 51 adult children (33 women and 18 men) participated in the study. Parents were in middle and late adulthood (41-67 years), while their children were in early adulthood (18-30 years). The following psychological questionnaires were used: the Material Values Scale (MVS_PL) in the Polish adaptation of Górnik-Durose (2016), the Scale of World Assumptions Scale in the Polish adaptation of Załuski and Gajdosz (2012), the Familism Scale in the Polish study by Walęcka-Matyja (2020) and a questionnaire. The obtained research results indicate a significant stabilization in the parental transmission of family values and beliefs about the world. Intergenerational differentiation was observed in terms of materialistic values.
Charity and its relation to wisdom by Saint Thomas of Aquinas
Authors: Grochowska Irena
Published: March 2022

Reflection on caritas love and its relationship with wisdom requires understanding and knowing of the essence of Christian love, therefore this article discusses caritas love from the perspective of love in general and its connection with other gifts, especially with the gift of wisdom.  To fully accept and realize the love of caritas one must first accept the truth about man, who was created in the image of the One God, in the image of the whole Trinity. To know the identity of man, Thomas argues, is to realize his vocation to friendship with God, to be a friend of God (Galuszka, 2021, p. 82). Arriving at the essence of the caritas love and its inseparable connection with wisdom, required a reflection on the meaning of one of the theological virtues, the virtue of love. Since the theological virtues are God's endowment of man, it was also necessary to introduce the gifts of the Holy Spirit to indicate the essence and fullness of the caritas love and its relation to God and men.

            For this purpose, the thoughts of Saint Thomas of Aquinas were used, that seem to be more and more relevant and stirring more and more interest among people looking for truth and beautiful love.

Caritas love is beautiful because it consists of loving in God and with God also another human being, not necessarily the one endowed with affection or sympathy, but every human being. Such love can only be realized in the pursuit of an intimate encounter with God. The analysis of the known texts of St. Thomas allowed us to confirm the thesis on the relation between love and wisdom. Love is the principle of all virtues and the source of human action. Love enhances wisdom, it creates for itself this help. Love in its highest degree manifests itself in wisdom. The true union of love and wisdom results in contemplation, which is the result of the cooperation of intellect and will.