bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manipulating Light with Tunable Nanoantennas and Metasurfaces
Authors: Rocco Davide , Locatelli Andrea , De Ceglia Domenico , Tognazzi Andrea , Zilli Attilio , Celebrano Michele , Finazzi Marco , Ferraro Antonio , Caputo Roberto , De Angelis Costantino
Published: September 2022

The extensive progress in nanofabrication techniques enabled innovative methods for molding light at the nanoscale. Subwavelength structured optical elements and, in general, metasurfaces and metamaterials achieved promising results in several research areas, such as holography, microscopy, sensing and nonlinear optics. Still, a demanding challenge is represented by the development of innovative devices with reconfigurable optical properties. Here, we review recent achievements in the field of tunable metasurface. After a brief general introduction about metasurfaces, we will discuss two different mechanisms to implement tunable properties of optical elements at the nanoscale. In particular, we will first focus on phase-transition materials, such as vanadium dioxide, to tune and control the resonances of dipole nanoantennas in the near-infrared region. Finally, we will present a platform based on an AlGaAs metasurface embedded in a liquid crystal matrix that allows the modulation of the generated second harmonic signal.
Building Smart System by Applied Deep Learning and Spatial Indoor Agent Based Model for a New Adaptation University Learning Process Post Covid-19
Authors: Yudono Adipandang , Wibowo Sapto , Meidiana Christia , Surjono Surjono , Nurika Irnia , Martati Erryana , Akhbar Pamungkas Yan
Published: September 2022

The impact of COVID-19 implied various restrictions on people’s mobility, especially for the higher education communities, by implementing the Learning from Home approach. This approach has altered the behavior of a human on a daily basis for a year long. Subsequently, the global vaccination program has been the advent of a “New Normal” approach as it reenables the direct human interactions by following health protocols to abide such as social distancing. This study investigated the pedestrian flow in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning (DURP) lecture building, Brawijaya University, and predicted the potential crowd spots using the Integrated Agent-Based Model (ABM), Computer Vision, and the Geographical Information System on an Indoor scale. Additionally, alternative designs of pedestrian flow were proposed to prevent crowds from occurring. The results showed the East and West entrance paths of the DURP building have high traffic, so the proper response is to organize the Southside door as an alternative entrance for pedestrian access. Moreover, the opening of the south gate could reduce the crowd spots on the 2nd Floor of the DURP lecture building.
Numerical Simulations and Validation of Engine Performance Parameters Using Chemical Kinetics
Authors: Arshad Muzammil
Published: September 2022

Use of detailed chemistry augments the combustion model of a three-dimensional unsteady compressible turbulent Navier–Stokes solver with liquid spray injection when coupled with fluid mechanics solution with detailed kinetic reactions. Reduced chemical reaction mechanisms help in the reducing the simulations time to study of the engine performance parameters, such as, in-cylinder pressure in spark ignition engines. Sensitivity analysis must be performed to reduce the reaction mechanism for the compression and power strokes utilizing computational singular perturbation (CSP) method. To study a suitable well-established surrogate fuel, an interface between fluid dynamics and chemical kinetics codes must be used. A mesh independent study must be followed to validate results obtained from numerical simulations against the experimental data. To obtain comprehensive results, a detailed study should be performed for all ranges of equivalence ratios as well as stoichiometric condition. This gives rise to the development of a reduced mechanism that has the capability to validate engine performance parameters from stoichiometric to rich mixtures in a spark ignition engine. The above-mentioned detailed methodology was developed and implemented in the present study for premixed and direct injection spark ignition engines which resulted in a single reduced reaction mechanism that validated the engine performance parameters for both engine configurations.
Hydraulic Fracturing in Porous and Fractured Rocks
Authors: Satya Subrahmanyam Duvvuri
Published: September 2022

There are various methods to determine in situ stress parameters, each having its own advantages and limitations. Among the methods available, the hydraulic fracturing method is the most adopted method for in situ stress measurements because of its simplicity and reliability. But the legitimacy of this method becomes questionable in fractured and porous rocks as the amount of experimental work has thus far been limited, especially in the case of its validity in fractured and porous rocks. The relatively slow rates of pressurisation have ensured that when fracture initiation occurs, the sudden increase in volume may lead to a marked drop in pressure in the fractured section, which is easily recognised from the pressure record. This is because pressure cannot be developed if the rate of leakage in the formation is equal to or higher than the flow rate applied for fracture initiation.
Physical Quality of Soils in a Toposequence of a Forest Fragment under Livestock Activity in a Watershed in South Brazil
Authors: Schuch Lemos Venzke Tiago , Miguel Pablo , Pagani Junior Adão , Vitor Peroba Rocha José , Diego Leidemer Jeferson , Domingues Nachtigall Stefan , Maria Fernandes de Araujo Mélory , Stumpf Lizete , Bertaso de Garcia Fernandez Maria , Silva de Oliveira Maurício , Milech Robe Giovana , Fernando Spinelli Pinto Luiz
Published: September 2022

The conservation of native forests is fundamental to the preservation of hydric resources in the landscape. The use of animals in forest fragments has resulted in degradations in the soil, resulting in the grating of these. Thus, soil classes were studied and physical parameters of forest soils were evaluated in areas without and with cattle grazing in the “Arroio Pelotas” watershed, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, extreme south of Brazil. The results were submitted to statistical analysis with the Kruskal–Wallis nonparametric test with a significance level of 5%. The means of the physical parameters of soil in the same toposequence and layers with and without the presence of livestock were compared. By analyzing soil physical attributes (density, macroporosity, and microporosity) it can be seen that the structural quality of the soil is affected by the access of animals inside the forest fragments, especially in the upper layer of the soil (0–5 cm deep). In forest fragments without access to animals, the physical structure of the soil presented the best conditions of macroporosity and, consequently, greater protection of nutrients, microorganisms, and water resources. Therefore, it is concluded that conservation by the isolation of protective forests in rural property planning benefits the quality of forest soils.
Evaluation of Current and Future Diagnostic and Prognostic Techniques for Traumatic Pericarditis in Cattle
Authors: Hall Jennifer , Barker Emily , Best Adam , Sian Rutland Catrin
Published: September 2022

Pericarditis in cattle can be classified as traumatic pericarditis (TP), idiopathic haemorrhagic, secondary to neoplasia or septic pericarditis due to haematogenous spread of organisms, such as Colibacilli or Pasturella. In cattle, pericardial disease most commonly develops from traumatic reticuloperitonitis (TRP). Bovine cardiac disease often has a poor prognosis, and this is worsened when clinical manifestations of heart failure are present. Euthanasia is the treatment of choice in many cases, but for pregnant or high value animals, treatment of disease is often the preferred option and an early diagnosis can provide a better prognosis in these cases. This chapter looks at the anatomy, physiology and presentation of TP. In addition, a more in depth look at cardiac troponin is presented alongside present and future diagnostic and prognostic methods, in addition to treatment options surrounding this clinically important problem.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and Angio-OCT Imaging Techniques in Multiple Sclerosis Patients with or without Optic Neuritis
Authors: Mihaylova Bilyana , Cherninkova Sylvia
Published: September 2022

The visual system is typically affected in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The most common ocular manifestation during the clinical course of the disease is optic neuritis (ON). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is well-established tool for biomedical imaging that enables detection of retinal nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell layer thickness reduction – biomarkers of axonal damage and neuronal loss in MS. And OCT angiography (angio-OCT) is another imaging method for assessing retinal and choroidal vessels with no need of contrast dye injection. In our prospective study, we investigate parafoveal and peripapillary microvascular retinal networks in 18 MS patients (35 eyes) through angio-OCT (AngioVue, OptoVue). According to our results, early structural changes in MS patients without previous history of acute ON episode are unable to be detected. As a follow-up imaging technique, OCT is very useful for changes in axonal thickness and defines the progression rate of the disease. Angio-OCT vis-à-vis OCT investigation detects the ocular perfusion reduction before the appearance of structural changes. From all investigated structural and density parameters only those in superficial capillary plexus show significant changes in MS patients without ON. For accurate diagnostic and following-up process, both structural and vascular parameters need to be assessed in MS patients.
Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam): A Review of Modern Varieties and Production Guidelines for Enhanced Food and Nutrition Security
Authors: Balasubramanian Vethaiya
Published: September 2022

Sweet potato is an important root crop that feeds millions of people, mostly the poor. Being a versatile crop, it is generally adapted to varying environments. The potential of sweet potato as food, feed, and industrial raw material has not been fully realized due to the: (a) dominance of subsistence farming with local varieties and poor-quality vine cuttings; (b) low or no knowledge and awareness of the new high-yielding yellow-fleshed sweet potato (YFSP) varieties rich in beta-carotene and micronutrients that could alleviate hunger and malnutrition globally; (c) high soil nutrient depletion by the crop under continuous cultivation with low or no nutrient inputs; (d) huge (40–80%) losses of roots after harvest due to poor postharvest management; and (e) inadequate farmers’ access to sweet potato value chain. This review shows how to increase farmers’ productivity and income and simultaneously sustain soil health by using improved, drought-tolerant varieties and climate-smart integrated crop and resource management technologies; reduce harvest and postharvest losses through improved postharvest management; reduce malnutrition by producing and consuming YFSP varieties; and increase sweet potato product lines to boost market demand and farmers’ income, which in turn will encourage farmers to intensify sweet potato production with adequate inputs.
CSR Policies in Different Countries: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Goel Anupama , Rathee Himangshu
Published: September 2022

This chapter discusses the policies pertaining to CSR and their implementation in different countries in comparison to Indian CSR. Precise mandate of CSR is to achieve better management of all the stakeholders and to ensure greater accountability. It may be based upon philanthropy or inclined towards transparency, ethics or community good. Environment, social and economic dimensions are the foremost priorities of almost all the nations, but main focus areas vary depending upon the national history, policies, laws etc. along with people’s preferences. The implementation of CSR is also affected by the active or passive role being performed by the government. The thrust of the chapter will be to analyse the role of the government, its goals, priorities and policies, which go in a long way to impact CSR. The legislative mandate of CSR and its implementation in India will be analysed specifically, in comparison to USA and Norway, which have better CSR rankings than India. Keywords: CSR, policies, implementation, government, ranking.
Boron Nitride Fabrication Techniques and Physical Properties
Authors: A. Tabbakh Thamer , Tyagi Prashant , Anandan Deepak , J. Sheldon Michael , Alshihri Saeed
Published: September 2022

The III-nitride semiconductors are known for their excellent extrinsic properties like direct bandgap, low electron affinity, and chemical and thermal stability. Among III-nitride semiconductors, boron nitride has proven to be a favorable candidate for common dimension materials in several crystalline forms due to its sp2- or sp3-hybridized atomic orbitals. Among all crystalline forms, hexagonal (h-BN) and cubic (c-BN) are considered as the most stable crystalline forms. Like carbon allotropes, the BN has been obtained in different nanostructured forms, e.g., BN nanotube, BN fullerene, and BN nanosheets. The BN nanosheets are a few atomic layers of BN in which boron and nitrogen are arranged in-planer in hexagonal form. The nanostructure sheets are used for sensors, microwave optics, dielectric gates, and ultraviolet emitters. The most effective and preferred technique to fabricate BN materials is through CVD. During the growth, BN formation occurs as a bottom-up growth mechanism in which boron and nitrogen atoms form a few layers on the substrate. This technique is suitable for high quality and large-area growth. Although a few monolayers of BN are grown for most applications, these few monolayers are hard to detect by any optical means as BN is transparent to a wide range of wavelengths. This chapter will discuss the physical properties and growth of BN materials in detail.
Biofilm Formation by Pathogenic Bacteria: The Role of Quorum Sensing and Physical - Chemical Interactions
Authors: Das Theerthankar , C. Young Brandon
Published: September 2022

Pathogenic bacteria cause infectious diseases, mainly when the host (humans, animals, and plants) are colonised by bacteria, especially in its biofilm stage, where it is known to cause chronic infections. Biofilms are associated with resistance to antimicrobial agents, including antibiotics, antiseptics, detergents, and other therapeutic approaches. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest public health challenges of our time and is termed a ‘silent pandemic’ by the United Nations. Biofilm formation, pathogenicity and the associated AMR are regulated through a bacterial cell-to-cell communication system termed “Quorum Sensing (QS)’. As the bacterial cells sense the fluctuations in their population, they biosynthesise and secrete the signalling molecules called autoinducers (AI). In gram-negative, the signalling molecules are primarily homoserine lactones (AHL) whereas in gram-positive the signalling molecules are autoinducing peptides. The AI binds to receptor and regulator proteins in the bacterial cells to activate the complete QS system, which controls the regulations of various genes that are essential for the biosynthesis of virulence factors, extracellular biopolymers (EPS) production, biofilm formation and bacterial fitness.
Recent Advancements in Genetic Improvement of Food Legume Crops
Authors: Punia Monika , Kumar Rolaniya Lalit , Lal Jat Ram
Published: September 2022

Legumes are the second-largest source of food after cereals, all over the world, and an essential protein source in the vegetarian diet. These crops remain essential to subsistence production as they have the inherent capacity to survive in an adverse ecosystem and require minimum investment for their management. The increasing challenge of feeding a rapidly growing population places excessive pressure on current food production systems, which can no longer be sustained by traditional plant breeding alone. Therefore, modern breeding methods with increased genetic gains are required to meet the food demand of the increasing population. In the past few decades, the efficiency of legume crop breeding programs has increased considerably using novel and multidisciplinary approaches in breeding programs. A multidisciplinary approach combining conventional plant breeding, mutation breeding, plant biotechnology, and molecular breeding is strategically ideal for production of new and improved crop varieties. This chapter focuses on recent advancements in plant biotechnology, related molecular methods, phenomics, and their application in breeding of legume crops.
Predictors of Child Well-Being or What Makes Children Happy
Authors: Bruk Zhanna , Ignatjeva Svetlana
Published: September 2022

In order to understand what makes children happy, it is important to hear what children have to say about their lives themselves. Their voices do not always resonate with the widespread discourse of adults about what children need, and the very awareness of children’s well-being diverges between adults and children. This chapter presents an analysis of overall life satisfaction and subjective well-being of 2,000 children living in the Tyumen region, Russia. The survey was conducted as part of the international collaboration Children’s Worlds (ISCWeB). The authors study the influence of various predictors (family, friends, school, safety, area of residence, etc.) on the subjective well-being of children. The results prove that the objective availability of everything necessary for a full-fledged life of a child does not always determine subjective well-being and a sense of happiness. Children may have not everything they want and still be happy. Conversely, a child may claim to have everything a child could dream of and still feel unhappy. These results are discussed in the context of policy and programming to promote and sustain well-being among all children.
Perspective Chapter: Endocannabinoids in Renal Physiology – From Tissue Homeostasis to Precision Medicine
Authors: M.R.S. Grelle Gloria , S. Sampaio Luzia , Einicker-Lamas Marcelo
Published: September 2022

Body homeostasis is fully dependent on the different physiological systems working together in an orchestrated way. Different hormones, autacoids, and other bioactive molecules are known to play a role in the modulation of such events, either during a normal response to different stimuli or upon any harmful condition that will impact tissue or organ. The kidneys are very important for whole body homeostasis as they are responsible for the control of blood pressure, maintenance of the water compartments volume and composition, detoxification, reabsorption, pH regulation, and even some hormone production. Here we will discuss the ability of cannabinoids (phyto- or endocannabinoids) as modulators of renal physiology, which may open new perspectives for the development of new therapeutic drugs or the discovery of new patterns of endocannabinoids that may be explored as biomarkers for nephropathies or kidney repair toward precision medicine initiatives.
Liposomes for Targeting RNA Interference-Based Therapy in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: M. Alfagih Iman
Published: September 2022

The discovery of RNA interference (RNAi) in mammalian cells in 2001 opened up a new class of candidate therapeutics for hard-to-cure diseases like inflammatory bowel diseases. The main challenge for the development of RNAi-based therapeutics is the efficient and safe delivery of RNAi since the RNAi machinery is housed in the cytoplasm. Among the various approaches to active targeting, liposome-based delivery systems are innovative and promising systems to transport and control RNAi molecules release and overcome some of their limitations. Many RNAis in lipid formulations have progressed through various stages of clinical trials, with the measurable improvements in patients and no side effects. For colon targeting, liposomes can be manipulated by different methods. This chapter discusses the progress in delivering RNAi molecules to the colon using liposomes.
Type 1 Regulatory T Cells and Their Application in Cell Therapy
Authors: Gu Chao , Oh SangKon
Published: September 2022

Critical roles of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the maintenance of immune homeostasis by controlling unwanted types of immune responses have been well documented. Therefore, Treg-based therapeutic strategies for inflammatory diseases have long been investigated. Type 1 regulatory T (Tr1) cells and Foxp3+ Tregs are two major subsets of regulatory CD4+ T cells. In contrast to Foxp3+ Tregs, the master transcription regulator for Tr1 cells still remains elusive. Nevertheless, Tr1 cells are generally defined as a specialized subset of CD4+ T cells, which are induced in the periphery during antigen exposure in tolerogenic condition. As one of their key features, Tr1 cells express immunosuppressive cytokine IL-10, which can repress the function of effector immune cells independently of Foxp3 expression. In this book chapter, we discuss the recent developments in the field of Tr1 cells, including major characteristics of Tr1 cells, methods for Tr1 induction as well as their therapeutic potentials in immune-mediated diseases.
New Trends in Clay-Based Nanohybrid Applications: Essential Oil Encapsulation Strategies to Improve Their Biological Activity
Authors: Saad Houda , Ayed Ameni , Srasra Mondher , Attia Sameh , Srasra Ezzeddine , Charrier-El Bouhtoury Fatima , Tabbene Olfa
Published: September 2022

Essential oils (EOs) are used in medicinal, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, agricultural, and food industries thanks to their key properties and multiple benefits. Several techniques and embedding materials are used to nanoencapsulate EOs, in order to keep them from environmental conditions and boost their bioefficiency by controlled release. In recent years, the interest for clay nanoparticles as nanoencapsulation materials for EOs is increasing owing to their abundance in nature, low cost, inertness, and special structure. Thus, this chapter focuses on highlighting data and contributions dealing with EOs incorporation into nanoclay particles, their current applications and nanohybrid formation benefits on the stability, bioavailability, and sustained release of EOs. An overview about nanoclays used for EOs nanoencapsulation is highlighted in the beginning of this chapter followed by a brief description of EOs’ chemical composition and properties.
Recent Applications of Gas Chromatography in Bioanalysis
Authors: David Victor , C. Moldoveanu Serban
Published: September 2022

Bioanalysis involves a broad range of chemical analyzes. These analyzes include that of biotics, such as natural components of living organisms, as well as xenobiotics, such as drugs and their metabolites in biological systems. Because many biotics and xenobiotics are not volatile molecules, the main technique for bioanalysis is high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and the limitation of GC utilization is caused by the fact that GC is applicable only to volatile samples. However, gas chromatography (GC) in particular coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) as detection is also a very useful technique in bioanalysis. A considerable number of analytes in bioanalysis are volatile or can be made volatile following, for example, derivatization. As a result, GC (and GC/MS) are commonly utilized for the analysis of biotics, such as amino acids, fatty acids, various metabolites in biological fluids, and in particular of a large number of xenobiotics, such as drugs, drug metabolites, toxicants, and certain metabolic compounds caused by toxicants. The chapter will present progress in the GC methodology for extending its applicability to bioanalysis and will provide a review of more recent applications.
Transgenic Approaches for Nutritional Enhancement of Potato
Authors: S. Datir Sagar , Regan Sharon
Published: September 2022

Potatoes provide an excellent source of carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, carotenoids, anthocyanins, and several other metabolites which play an important role in human nutrition. These bioactive compounds are effective in preventing diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart-related issues. In addition to their industrial uses, potatoes are a major focus of genetic engineering programs for the modification of nutritional properties. Several important candidate genes operating in phenylpropanoid mechanism, ascorbic acid biosynthesis pathway, carbohydrate metabolism, steroidal glycoalkaloid biosynthesis pathway, and other-related metabolic steps have been cloned and characterized at the biochemical and molecular levels. Overexpression and down regulation of genes operating in these pathways has revealed important insights into improved nutritional quality. Expression of a transgene has successfully resulted in increasing carotenoids, anthocyanins, and vitamin content in transgenic tubers. Reduction in glycoalkaloid content, enzymatic browning, flesh color, and chipping quality has been achieved via modification of the genes involved in the respective biochemical pathway in potatoes. Transgenic approaches not only resulted in improved quality but also helped in understanding the biochemical and molecular mechanisms associated with the regulation of genes in these pathways. Although the commercialization of transgenic potatoes is still hindered by consumers approval and ethical restrictions, the Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 system holds promise as a non-transgenic alternative for developing nutritionally enhanced potatoes.
One Health Concept against Schistosomiasis: An Overview
Authors: Inceboz Tonay
Published: September 2022

Schistosomiasis (bilharziasis) is a parasitic disease caused by Schistosoma spp. that belongs to trematode worms. These worms are known as “blood parasites”. This disease is included in “neglected tropical diseases” and “water-borne diseases”. The main species are Schistosoma (S.) haematobium, S. japonicum, S. mansoni, S. intercalatum, S. mekongi, S. guineensis and S. intercalatum, though there are more than 20 different species. The parasite in the definitive host may affect many organs and systems. The disease may become chronic and lasts 3–8 years and even up to 20–30 years. The definitive host is primarily human; however, in endemic areas animals such as monkeys, cattle, horses, rodents, cats, dogs are reservoirs. According to World Health Organization (WHO), schistosomiasis affects 250 million people, and causes 1.9 million deaths yearly in endemic areas. Moreover, due to global warming, the spread of the disease may increase. The effective way to fight against schistosomiasis is following the “one-health system”. Indeed, to overcome or “eradicate” this disease, we have to strive against different forms at different evolutionary stages of the worm such as, forms in humans, domestic or wild animals, and freshwater snails. If we combine the knowledge of professionals, we may achieve this goal.
Chronotherapy Advances in the Management of Chronic Neurological and Cardiovascular Diseases: Complex Interactions of Circadian Rhythm Environmental Inputs, Nutrition and Drug Administration and Their Impact on Human Health
Authors: Crenguța Nicolae Alina , Dumitrescu Ion-Bogdan , Cristina Diaconu Camelia , Elena Ritivoiu Mirela , Adella Sirbu Carmen , Manuela Drăgoi Cristina
Published: September 2022

New scientific evidence raises awareness concerning the human-specific interplay among primary environmental conditions, such as the light–dark cycle, activity–rest alternation, nutritional patterns, and their reflection on the physiological and pathological characteristics that are displayed uniquely by every individual. One of the critical aspects in the clinic is to understand the role of circadian rhythms as remarkable modulators of the biological effects of drugs and to aim for an optimal overlapping of the time of administration of medicines with the physiologic release of certain hormones, the time-dependent expression of genes, or the key-regulatory protein synthesis, which are all circadian-driven processes. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics profiles, as well as the possible drug interactions of neurotropic and cardiovascular agents, are intensely subjected to endogenous circadian rhythms, being essential to identify as much as possible the patients’ multiple risk factors, from age and gender to lifestyle elements imprinted by dietary features, sleep patterns, psychological stress, all the way to various other associated pathological conditions and their own genetic and epigenetic background. This review chapter will highlight the involvement of biological rhythms in physiologic processes and their impact on various pathological mechanisms, and will focus on the nutritional impact on the circadian homeostasis of the organism and neurologic and cardiovascular chronotherapy.
Application of Artificial Neural Network in Solar Energy
Authors: Du Bin , D. Lund Peter
Published: September 2022

Accurate prediction of system performance is very important for the optimal planning of solar energy systems. The latest research of artificial neural network (ANN) technology for predicting the efficiency of solar thermal systems and the performance of photovoltaic system is reported here. Application of ANN to performance assessment of solar collectors is briefly reviewed including novel all-glass straight-through evacuated tube collectors. An overview of the most recent work of ANN for combined photovoltaic/thermal panels (PV/T) and concentrating photovoltaic collectors is also provided.
(In)tangible Heritages: A Critical Review for an Alternative Heritage Discourse (ALHD) Perspective in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Balah Ryal-Net Marcus , Chanle Sati Yohana , Omoikhefe Ola-Adisa Erekpitan
Published: September 2022

Heritage conversation has continuously elicited genuine concern from stakeholders, evokes controversies, and creates disputes in determining its worldview that is truly considered universal. The concern on the adopted Eurocentric perspective of Authorised Heritage Discourse(AHD) and the emerging calls for an Alternative Heritage Discourse (ALHD) constructivist and transformative post-modernist worldview. The sustainability concerns for all indigenous and national cultures that are in accordance with their unique value system are here considered paramount. The study essentially, undertook a critical review of the historical evolution of the heritage discourse, through the three major charters and conventions of 1964, 1972, and 2003 towards contextualising the discourse perspective. The study was undertaken through a critical review of relevant literature chronologically on the heritage subject matter. The study product is the development of a framework for ALHD that is conscious of the indigenous communities’ value systems within Sub-Saharan Africa. The study recommended the use of an integrated heritage discourse framework for the identification, documentation, and conservation of indigenous heritage features and landscapes jointly by all stakeholders towards ensuring that sustainable transgenerational heritage is bequeathed.
Sero-epidemiology and Risk Assessment of Hepatitis E Virus Among Blood Donors in North Lebanon
Authors: Ghazzawi Joyce , Moubayed Sara , Khalife Sara
Published: September 2022

Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the causative agent of over 50% of acute viral hepatitis cases. The blood transfusion route has emerged as a possible route of transmission of HEV. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of IgM and IgG anti-HEV among blood donors in North Lebanon and to assess the risk factors associated with its occurrence. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November to December 2020. Blood samples were collected from 78 healthy blood donors. A standardized questionnaire containing sociodemographic, food consumption, lifestyle, and health-related characteristics, was filled out to assess the risk factors of HEV exposure. Serum samples were tested for IgM and IgG anti-HEV by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The seroprevalence of IgM and IgG anti-HEV antibodies was reported in our study, and it reached 1.09% (1/78) and 12.82% (10/78), respectively. The use of private wells as a drinking source and the travel history to endemic countries have been identified as risk factors for HEV infections (P
Investigation of the Microbial Contamination of the Hands of Healthcare Workers in Different Wards of Sheikh Hospital in Mashhad
Authors: Avestan Zoleikha , Jami Mohammad , Mirzaei Marziyeh , Amini Yousef , Ghazvini Kiarash , Safdari Hadi , Gholobi Aida , Farsiani Hadi
Published: September 2022

Background: Many nosocomial infections, which cause death and cost society, may be transmitted through healthcare workers’ contacts. Preventive health measures greatly reduce their prevalence. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the microbial contamination of healthcare workers’ hands in different wards of Sheikh Hospital. In addition, the alcohol-based hand sanitizers’ ability to reduce microbial load of nosocomial infections was evaluated. Methods: The present study was performed in spring 2019. Thirty-two nurses’ hand samples were obtained from different wards of the hospital, including emergency, ICU, surgery, peritoneal dialysis, nephrology, and hematology-oncology. Biochemical tests determined the isolates. Participants’ hands were cleaned using a standard procedure using soap and 70% isopropyl alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Results: Different species, including coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CoNS), Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus, Klebsiella oxytoca, Acinetobacter baumannii, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Burkholderia cepacia complex were isolated. Following hand hygiene procedure, the most effective decontamination for a wide variety of organisms was observed. Conclusion: Separation of dangerous pathogenic bacteria such as S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, and E. coli from healthcare workers may be a great warning sign for these infections in the hospital. Therefore, hand hygiene procedures may be considered an appropriate method to decrease nosocomial infections.
Effect of Environmental Temperature on Working Memory in Military Personnel
Authors: Zarghami Esmaeil , Yazdanfar Seyed Abbas , Hosseini Yekta Nafiseh , Dadras Faezeh
Published: September 2022

Background: Working memory is one of the essential cognitive functions. Achieving the highest cognitive performance is especially important in critical jobs such as military and crisis management-related jobs. The thermal environment can cognitive functions. Humans have different thermal sensations in the same fixed temperature environments. Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the effect of thermal environment and thermal sensation on working memory. Methods: Each of 20 male adult participants, physically and mentally healthy aged 19 - 29 years, experienced seven thermal conditions (office room climate: 14°C, 17°C, 20°C, 23°C, 26°C, 29°C, and 32°C) over four months. Before the test, they waited 40 minutes in the room for adaptation. The thermal sensation questions were asked from them, and working memory was measured with the n-back test. Results: In this experiment, 140 working memory data were collected. The relationship between air temperature and working memory was significant in two of six conditions. The relationship between thermal sensation and working memory was significant in all six conditions. Participants had various thermal sensations in the same fixed thermal environment. Conclusions: Thermal sensation significantly affected the working memory of the environment users. Working memory was more related to changes in people’s thermal sensation than changes in ambient temperature. Adjusting the ambient temperature based on the user’s thermal sensation increases cognitive performance and prevents working memory loss.
Preface
Authors: Rasmussen Jesper Lundsfryd
Published: September 2022

No abstract
En moralfilosofisk undersøgelse af sporten
Authors: Bysted Møller Rasmus
Published: September 2022

Abstract: Sport er frugtbar jord for moralsk karakterdannelse. Den idé er lige så gammel som sporten selv. Og åbenlyst til gavn for sportens image… Men er den sand? Den empiriske forskning på området peger på det modsatte: Sport opfordrer til selviskhed – ikke moral. Konfronteret med den slags empiri lyder forsvaret at det bare er en ’måling’ af den forventelige korrumperende indflydelse fra medier, kommercielle interesser osv. Faktorer som ødelægger sporten udefra. Sporten selv, bygger på fairness og er ret beset et samarbejde mod et fælles mål - nemlig intense oplevelser og dygtighed, lyder påstanden. I denne artikel forsøger jeg at udvikle en sportsetisk teori som åbner for en ny forståelse af forholdet mellem sport og moral.
At bo med Heidegger: En læsning af beboelsesproblematikken i det sene forfatterskab
Authors: Krejberg Knudsen Nicolai
Published: September 2022

"Denn es bedarf der Besinnung, ob und wie im Zeitalter der technisierten gleichförmigen Weltzivilisation noch Heimat sein kann." - Martin HeideggerDette er den sidste sætning, som Martin Heidegger skrev før sin død i 1970. Sætningen, der afslutter noget så ufilosofisk som en hilsen [ein Grußwort] til et andet bysbarn fra Meßkirch, sammenkæder imidlertid en række temaer fra Heideggers sene tænkning på en måde, der opstiller en udfordring for den filosofiske Besinnung: Er hjemstavnen eller hjemligheden mulig under teknologiens overherredømme?Problemformuleringen fra Heideggers sidste dage bør vi ikke sidde overhørigt, da den udpeger et centralt og endnu ikke adækvat gennemarbejdet aspekt af Heideggers sene tænkning, der alt for ofte reduceres til en blot og bar teknologikritik eller -pessimisme. I kondenseret form afslører citatet, at teknologikritikken blot er det negative aspekt af Heideggers modernitetskritik og -tænkning, og at dette i sine positive udforming indebærer en betænkning af hjemmet. Som et forsøg på at tænke det moderne forhold mellem teknik og hjemlighed i Heideggers sene tænkning, vil jeg her præsentere en måde at forstå beboelsesproblematikken med afsæt i to centrale fortolkningsproblemer i "Bauen Wohnen Denken" fra 1951.
How (not) to justify ethical criticism
Authors: Gøttcke Leander Møller
Published: September 2022

As the title of my paper reveals, the question that I want to discuss is a simple one: How should we justify ethical criticism of literature? To try to answer this question may, however, seem like a strange task for two very different reasons.
The question of unreliability in autobiographical narration
Authors: Hansen Nils Gunder
Published: September 2022

In the year 2001 Kristian Ditlev Jensen, a young Danish journalist and former literary student, published a book by the title Det bliver sagt (“It will be told”). Here he told of the sexual abuses he suffered as a child in a relationship with a pedophile adult friend, called Gustav in the book.The book became a sensation, not only due to its shocking content but also because of its astonishing literary qualities. It has the suspense of a page turner and at the same time it is an analytical intelligent autobiography: it tells the everlasting story of how an individual person on his specific terms is confronted with the world and struggles to find his place in it. It is furthermore a kind of journalist documentary, where the same person is the investigator and part of the story being investigated. How should one read and respond critically to a book of this complex nature?
Hegel on Historicity and the Methodology of Philosophy
Authors: Wolsing Peter
Published: September 2022

No abstract.
Det negative absolutte: Logikbegrebet i Hegels Jena-skrifter
Authors: Mathorne William Toke
Published: September 2022

No abstract
Logikkens nærmere begreb og inddeling
Authors: Ploug Anna Cornelia
Published: September 2022

No abstract
Spinoza og Rousseau: Tendenser og modtendenser i tidlig demokratiteori
Authors: Beck Holm Andreas
Published: September 2022

Demokratibegrebet er i de senere år blevet nytænkt på forskellig vis af teoretikere som eksempelvis Jacques Rancière (1999, 2005) og Chantal Mouffe (2000). Karakteristisk for først og fremmest Rancières arbejde med begrebet er, at han kombinerer radikal og original nytænkning af dets semantik med inspirationen fra klassisk filosofi, først og fremmest Platon. I Rancières perspektiv har Platon netop (i modsætning til moderne demokratiteori) forstået, at demokrati tværtimod at være en styreform er det anarki, ethvert styre søger at fortrænge – det er netop derfor, han er antidemokrat.

Det er naturligvis interessant, at man kan bruge Platon til at udvikle moderne demokratiteori, selv om han står som en af filosofihistoriens mest indædte antidemokrater. Så meget desto mere interessant er det, hvad de få klassiske filosoffer, der faktisk har tilsluttet sig demokratiet som styreform, har at lære os i dag. Det er det spørgsmål, der skal belyses i det følgende, hvor Spinoza og Rousseau er i centrum.

På trods af åbenlyse forskelle mellem deres forfatterskaber, deler de to det afgørende fællestræk, at de er de første betydende filosoffer i den vestlige tradition, der argumenterer for demokratiet som styreform. Det gør Spinoza i sin Teologisk-Politiske Traktat fra 1670, Rousseau i Samfundspagten fra 1762. Det er i sig selv tankevækkende, at vi skal så langt op i tiden, før vi finder tænkere, der åbent anbefaler en styreform, der i dag almindeligvis ligefrem er definerende for politisk legitimitet, men siden Platon i Staten brændemærkede folkestyret som tøjlesløst anarki, havde man i den politiske filosofi taget afstand fra det – og det i en sådan grad, at Spinoza og Rousseau endnu langt op i 1800-tallet stod alene med deres synspunkt.

På baggrund af dette fællestræk kan det ikke undre, at der er en lang tradition for at sammenligne de to forfatterskaber. Det er da også ubestrideligt, at de er enige om meget, i særdeleshed når det gælder spørgsmålet om netop demokratiet. Alligevel vil fokus i det følgende ikke først og fremmest være på det, Spinoza og Rousseau har til fælles, men derimod på forskellene mellem dem. Konkret skal der gennem en marxistisk inspireret analyse argumenteres for, at en sammenligning af demokratiforståelsen hos de to forfattere viser, hvordan Spinozas tilgang er væsentligt mere radikal end Rousseaus, og derfor også mere interessant, når det handler om at udfordre og udvikle moderne demokratiteori.
Valor, satisfacción y lealtad en el voluntariado. Aplicación a un megaevento religioso
Authors: Floristán Imízcoz Elena , Servera-Francés David , Arteaga Moreno Francisco , Fayos Gardó Teresa , Gallarza Granizo Martina G.
Published: September 2022

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo principal profundizar en el estudio del voluntario como agente esencial en el éxito de cualquier evento, al tiempo que ofrecemos recomendaciones para mejorar la gestión de Megaeventos. Para alcanzar este objetivo proponemos un modelo estructural que analiza la multimensionalidad del valor como antecedente del valor percibido al tiempo que este influye sobre la satisfacción y ésta sobre la lealtad. La población analizada está constituida por los voluntarios que participaron en la Jornada Mundial de la Juventud celebrada en 2011 en Madrid con un total de 1427 casos. Los resultados obtenidos respaldan todas las hipótesis presentadas en el modelo propuesto. De tal forma que se confirma que la multidimensionalidad de la variable valor (espiritualidad, valor social, entretenimiento y eficiencia) es antecedente del valor percibido al tiempo que se confirma la cadena de consecuencias valor-satisfacción-lealtad. El antecedente más importante es el entretenimiento lo que demuestra que el voluntariado es entendido como un divertimento, y no como un trabajo.
Determinantes de la confianza del consumidor hacia el comercio electrónico: Una aplicación al caso de Puerto Rico
Authors: Aponte Vega Jorge
Published: September 2022

El comercio electrónico es la nueva tecnología de las empresas para ofrecer sus productos y servicios a bajos precios y de variedad a los consumidores. Existen consumidores que se pregunta cuán seguro es ofrecer datos personales al momento de realizar transacciones comerciales. Esta investigación estaba dirigida a la determinación de los posibles factores más relevantes que afectan la confianza del consumidor al utilizar el comercio electrónico y cuál es su percepción. Temas como la seguridad, la privacidad, el riesgo, la experiencia en la Internet y la calidad de los portales fueron explorados y se aplicaron a un modelo de confianza. Se recopilaron 200 cuestionarios de una universidad privada. Los resultados mostraron que existen diferencias significativas en la confianza hacia el Comercio Electrónico entre los consumidores con mucha y poca seguridad percibida, privacidad percibida, riesgo percibido y la percepción de la calidad de los portales. Sin embargo, el factor experiencia en la Internet evidenció que no existe diferencia significativa en la confianza del consumidor hacia el comercio electrónico. El estudio sugiere que las empresas virtuales adopten estrategias innovadoras en sus infraestructuras.
Los fondos Next Generation UE y las políticas activas de empleo en las regiones españolas: un análisis comparativo
Authors: Molina Belmonte Jesús , Ruiz Peñalver Soraya María , Camacho Ballesta José Antonio , Rodríguez Molina Mercedes
Published: September 2022

Los fondos europeos que se derivan de las acciones puestas en marcha por la UE para hacer frente a la pandemia COVID-19, han obligado al gobierno de España a diseñar una estrategia económica “España Puede” plasmada en el Plan de Recuperación, Transformación y Resiliencia para España. Estos fondos, se han distribuido en distintas componentes, dos de ellas, centradas en políticas de empleo. Ante este hecho, las comunidades autónomas españolas han visto incrementadas sus partidas de gastos para políticas activas de empleo (PAE) y han reeditado los objetivos de sus políticas motivado por el aumento presupuestario. Sin embargo, el reparto ha sido desigual, y el trabajo presenta la heterogeneidad entre comunidades autónomas del gasto en PAE por desempleado. Igualmente, el trabajo analiza la evolución en las distintas comunidades autónomas del número de contratos y tasa de paro regionales, determinando la inexistencia de una relación directa entre aumento de gasto en PAE y mejoras en los datos de contratación o tasa de paro. Siendo necesario un cambio en los objetivos y reparto de fondos de las PAE hacia modelos más funcionales, basados en el territorio o región donde vayan a desarrollarse.
Empirical mode decomposition using deep learning model for financial market forecasting
Authors: Jin Zebin , Jin Yixiao , Chen Zhiyun
Published: September 2022

Financial market forecasting is an essential component of financial systems; however, predicting financial market trends is a challenging job due to noisy and non-stationary information. Deep learning is renowned for bringing out excellent abstract features from the huge volume of raw data without depending on prior knowledge, which is potentially fascinating in forecasting financial transactions. This article aims to propose a deep learning model that autonomously mines the statistical rules of data and guides the financial market transactions based on empirical mode decomposition (EMD) with back-propagation neural networks (BPNN). Through the characteristic time scale of data, the intrinsic wave pattern was obtained and then decomposed. Financial market transaction data were analyzed, optimized using PSO, and predicted. Combining the nonlinear and non-stationary financial time series can improve prediction accuracy. The predictive model of deep learning, based on the analysis of the massive financial trading data, can forecast the future trend of financial market price, forming a trading signal when particular confidence is satisfied. The empirical results show that the EMD-based deep learning model has an excellent predicting performance.