bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refining characteristics of isometric straight bar plates with different bar angles
Authors: Liu Huan , Dong Jixian , Jing Hui , Guo Xiya , Duan Chuanwu , Qi Kai , Yang Ruifan , Guo Haozeng , Wang Bo , Qiao Lijie
Published: July 2021

Bar angle is one of the most important parameters of an isometric straight bar refiner plate and its effects on the change in pulp and paper properties during refining is still unclear. This study investigated the effect of plate bar angle on refining quality and refining efficiency by clarifying the definition of bar angle. Five isometric straight bar plates with different bar angles were used in low consistency refining of bleached sulphate eucalyptus pulp (BSEP). Samples at different refining time intervals were collected, and the fibers, pulp, and paper properties were detected and analyzed. There was a great influence of bar angle on the fibers, pulp, and paper properties. Additionally, a critical static attack angle, or critical bar angle for plates with specific field angle, existed. The modification of fibers and pulp properties was strong when the plate reached a critical bar angle. Meanwhile, there was an optimal static attack angle for a plate with specific field angle, when considering paper properties such as tensile index and tear index. The refining time was shortest when the pulp was refined by the plate with critical bar angle, allowing the paper properties to reach a maximum value. It was shown that the static attack angle of refining should be selected in the range of 45º to 70º, which includes the optimal value and the bar angle was proposed in the range of 11.25º to 23.75º for the plate with common field angle of 22.5º.
Preparation and characterization of regenerated cellulose biocomposite film filled with calcium carbonate by in situ precipitation
Authors: Zhu Qianqian , Wang Jingjing , Sun Jianzhong , Wang Qianqian
Published: July 2021

The application of cellulose hybrid biocomposites filled with calcium carbonate has attracted wide attention in packaging and other fields in recent years. In this study, regenerated cellulose (RC) films filled with calcium carbonate were successfully prepared by dissolution, regeneration, and in situ precipitation of CaCO3. The optical, mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of biocomposites were examined by UV-visible spectroscopy, tensile testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA). The results showed that RC films with different CaCO3 contents exhibited good flexibility, optical properties, mechanical strength, and thermal stability. The RC biocomposite filled with calcium carbonate showed a tensile strength of 84.7 ± 1.5 MPa at optimum conditions. These RC biocomposites filled with CaCO3 may find application in packaging.
Thermal, structural, and mechanical effects of nanofibrillated cellulose in polylactic acid filaments for additive manufacturing
Authors: Gomez-Maldonado Diego , Peresin Maria Soledad , Verdi Christina , Velarde Guillermo , Saloni Daniel
Published: July 2021

As the additive manufacturing process gains worldwide importance, the need for bio-based materials, especially for in-home polymeric use, also increases. This work aims to develop a composite of polylactic acid (PLA) and nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) as a sustainable approach to reinforce the currently commercially available PLA. The studied materials were composites with 5 and 10% NFC that were blended and extruded. Mechanical, structural, and thermal characterization was made before its use for 3D printing. It was found that the inclusion of 10% NFC increased the modulus of elasticity in the filaments from 2.92 to 3.36 GPa. However, a small decrease in tensile strength was observed from 55.7 to 50.8 MPa, which was possibly due to the formation of NFC aggregates in the matrix. This work shows the potential of using PLA mixed with NFC for additive manufacturing.
PERIODICITY SEARCH ALGORITHMS IN DIGITAL SEQUENCES WITH BLOCK CODING BY THEIR CORRELATION PROPERTIES
Authors: Romanov О. М. , Kotiubin V. Yu.
Published: July 2021

Context. To improve the noise immunity of communication and data transmission systems, error-correcting coding is widely used. The most common because of their effectiveness are block coding methods. Under conditions of partial a priori uncertainty of the type and parameters of encoding, before decoding the digital sequence, a preliminary analysis is carried out to determine them. In block coding, to determine the period of a digital sequence caused by the addition of a sync sequence to it, and which can determine the type and parameters of coding, a common approach is to use their correlation properties.

Objective. The object of the research is the presentation of periodicity search algorithms in digital sequences with block errorcorrecting coding under conditions of partial a priori uncertainty of the type and parameters of the error-correcting code.

Method. The article presents two periodicity search algorithms in digital sequences with block coding and describes the principle of their operation. The basis of one algorithm is the calculation of the autocorrelation function, the basis of the other is calculation of the cross-correlation function. It is shown that the length of the digital sequence should be twice as long as the maximum possible period. The operation of both algorithms is illustrated by examples.

Results. Based on the proposed algorithms, special software has been developed. The results of determining the period of digital sequences with block error-correcting coding at different values of the period confirmed the efficiency of the proposed algorithms. Both proposed algorithms give approximately the same result. Experimental dependences of the calculation time of auto- and crosscorrelation functions from the length of the digital sequence and the maximum possible period are established. The period search algorithm in a digital sequence, that use the cross-correlation function of its components, is more efficient due to fewer calculations.

Conclusions. For the first time, two periodicity search algorithms in digital sequences with block error-correcting based on the determination of their correlation functions are obtained. The application of the developed algorithms in practice allows, under partial a priori uncertainty of the type and parameters of the error-correcting code, to determine the period of digital sequences in real time even at large values of the period, and based on it, to identify the type and parameters of block error-correcting codes.
PROCEDURE FOR EVALUATION OF THE SUPPORTING FREQUENCY SIGNAL OF THE SATELLITE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM IN CONTINUOUS MODE
Authors: Turovsky A. L. , Drobik O. V.
Published: July 2021

Context. One of the features of satellite communication systems is the advantageous use in them during the reception of the signal in the continuous mode of phase modulation of signals intended for the transmission of useful information. The use of this type of modulation requires solving the problem of estimating the carrier frequency of the signal. And the estimation itself is reduced to the problem of estimating the frequency of the maximum in the spectrum of a fragment of a sinusoidal signal against the background of additive Gaussian noise. The article considers the process of estimating the carrier frequency of a signal by a satellite communication system in a continuous mode according to the rule of maximum likelihood.

Objective. Development of a procedure for estimating the carrier frequency of a signal received by a satellite communication system in a continuous mode according to the maximum likelihood rule.

Method. The procedure proposed in the work and the algorithm developed on its basis allows to estimate the carrier frequency according to the rule of maximum likelihood, taking into account the conditions of uncertainty of all signal parameters by the satellite communication system in continuous mode.

The results. For the purpose of practical introduction of the specified algorithm in operating schemes of satellite communication, schemes of its hardware realization are offered in work. To illustrate the ratio of the limits of the minimum limiting variance of the carrier frequency estimate, the paper presents dependencies that allow comparing the minimum limiting variance defined by the lower Cramer-Rao boundary and the minimum limiting variance determined taking into account all signal parameters.

Conclusions. Analysis of these dependences showed that in real conditions the minimum dispersion of the carrier frequency of the signal according to the rule of maximum likelihood received by the satellite communication system in continuous mode with uncertainty of all signal parameters may differ significantly from the minimum dispersion obtained by applying the lower Kramer-Rao boundary. Prospective research, development and creation of algorithms and techniques aimed at estimating the carrier frequency at the minimum limiting variance in the conditions of uncertainty of all parameters of the received signal should be aimed at the maximum approximation of the minimum limiting variance of the estimated carrier frequency to the lower Cramer-Rao boundary to estimate the carrier frequency under conditions of certainty of other signal parameters.
DELAY MODELS BASED ON SYSTEMS WITH USUAL AND SHIFTED HYPEREXPONENTIAL AND HYPERERLANGIAN INPUT DISTRIBUTIONS
Authors: Tarasov V. N. , Bakhareva N. F.
Published: July 2021

Context. In the queueing theory, the study of systems with arbitrary laws of the input flow distribution and service time is relevant because it is impossible to obtain solutions for the waiting time in the final form for the general case. Therefore, the study of such systems for particular cases of input distributions is important.

Objective. Getting a solution for the average delay in the queue in a closed form for queuing systems with ordinary and with shifted to the right from the zero point hyperexponential and hypererlangian distributions in stationary mode.

Method. To solve this problem, we used the classical method of spectral decomposition of the solution of the Lindley integral equation. This method allows to obtaining a solution for the average delay for two systems under consideration in a closed form. The method of spectral decomposition of the solution of the Lindley integral equation plays an important role in the theory of systems G/G/1. For the practical application of the results obtained, the well-known method of moments of probability theory is used.

Results. For the first time, a spectral decomposition of the solution of the Lindley integral equation for systems with ordinary and with shifted hyperexponential and hyperelangian distributions is obtained, which is used to derive a formula for the average delay in a queue in closed form.

Conclusions. It is proved that the spectral expansions of the solution of the Lindley integral equation for the systems under consideration coincide; therefore, the formulas for the mean delay will also coincide. It is shown that in systems with a delay, the average delay is less than in conventional systems. The obtained expression for the waiting time expands and complements the wellknown incomplete formula of queuing theory for the average delay for systems with arbitrary laws of the input flow distribution and service time. This approach allows us to calculate the average delay for these systems in mathematical packages for a wide range of traffic parameters. In addition to the average waiting time, such an approach makes it possible to determine also moments of higher orders of waiting time. Given the fact that the packet delay variation (jitter) in telecommunications is defined as the spread of the waiting time from its average value, the jitter can be determined through the variance of the waiting time.
THE AUTOMATIC SYNTHESIS OF PETRI NETS BASED ON THE FUNCTIONING OF ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORK
Authors: Gurskiy A. A. , Denisenko A. V. , Dubna S. M.
Published: July 2021

Context. The important task was solved during the scientific research related to the development of the methods for automatic synthesis of Petri nets while tuning up of the coordinating automatic control systems. The importance of development of these methods is due to the evolution of intelligent systems. These systems provide the automation of labor intensive processes in the particular case this is the tuning of the certain type of complex control systems.
Objective. The purpose of the scientific work is to minimize the time and automation of process in tuning of the multilevel coordinating automatic control systems.
Method. The principle of automatic synthesis of Petri nets and the implementation of certain algorithms for tuning complex control systems based on the functioning of an artificial neural network are proposed. The mathematical description of the method for changing the coefficients in neural connections of network in the synthesis of Petri nets is presented.
Results. The experiments were conducted in the Matlab\Simulink 2012a environment. These experiments were bound to the joint functioning of an artificial neural network and Petri nets. The functioning of Petri nets was presented in the Matlab \ Simulink environment using Statflow diagrams.
As a result of the experiments we have obtained the temporal characteristics of the functioning of artificial neural network providing the composition of Petri nets. The fundamental suitability of using artificial neural network to provide the automatic composition of Petri nets was determined on the basis of analysis of temporal characteristics.
Conclusion. The problem linked to the development of system for the joint functioning of neural network and Petri nets for the formation of algorithms and sequential calculations was solved in this work. Thus the method of automatic synthesis of Petri nets and the method of developing of the certain algorithms based on the functioning of a neural network were further developed.
Modern Toponymy of the Verkh-Yazva Rural Settlement (Krasnovishersk District, Perm Region)
Authors:   Institute for Linguistic Studies of the RAS, Bobrova Maria V. , Zvereva Julia V. ,   Perm State Humanitarian-Pedagogical University
Published: July 2021

The paper observes the current state of onomastics on the territorial residence of Komi-Yazvians, one of the disappearing small peoples of the Perm region. The authors intended to determine the degree of preservation of substrate proper names. The materials for this study were obtained during field expeditions of 2017–2018, undertaken to by teachers and students of the Perm State University to collect unique onomastic material in a small “pocket” of this people’s domicile — in the upper reaches of the Yazva (Verkh-Yazva rural settlement) in the Krasnovishersk district (Perm region). The first part of the article contains basic information on the ethnography and history of studying the language and culture of the Komi-Yazvian people. The factors that contributed to the formation of a unique culture, its preservation, and the formation of the ethnic identity of the Komi-Yazvian people are identified. The focus is on the current situation: the people are subject to strong assimilation processes, language and culture are rapidly fading and are on the verge of extinction. The authors emphasize that the Komi-Yazva onomastics have not received an in-depth study, and proper names still need to be collected and analyzed. The present study deals mainly with the toponymic part, describing the following classes of names: names of settlements of the Verkh-Yazva rural area, names of water bodies, mainly rivers, names of fields, meadows, pastures, and other microtoponymic objects. In total, this makes about 700 studied items. The following conclusions are made: 1) modern toponymy of the upper reaches of the Yazva river is a single and consistent onomastic space, 2) however, it also showcases structural changes due to a significant influence of the Russian toposystem; substrate onomastics, with the exception of hydronyms, is subject to active Russification and washing out of the active vocabulary, 3) the formation of the local toponymic space is influenced by historical and cultural processes, 4) the studied data indicate that macrotoponymy (mainly hydronymy) is more stable compared to the microtoponymy, which is more agile, more responsive to social, cultural, and linguistic processes, 5) it is necessary to immediately record the disappearing substrate names to subsequently consider the obtained data in line with modern theories of onomatology.
Precedent Names in Russian Political Advertising: Representation of Value-Based Standards and Cultural Symbols
Authors:   Ural Federal University, Dmitrieva Anastasia V.
Published: July 2021

The article considers the specificity of precedent proper names as universal value-based standards and cultural symbols in the texts of Russian political advertisement. The axiological aspect is at the core of the pragmatic impact made by political advertising on the target audience. The research material involves political advertising texts issued during presidential and parliamentary campaigns in Russia in 1993–2018. The author distinguishes between the notions of ‘standard’ and ‘symbol’ as ways of conveying value-based meanings. In the first case, it is the connotative use of proper names and the “rating scale” of evaluation that matter the most. In the second case, both denotative and connotative ways of using precedent names are possible while the rating features are optional. Moreover, unlike names-standards, symbolic names express a particular idea implicitly, not explicitly. Precedent names with value meanings can be rendered both verbally and by means of precedent visual phenomena having an associative link with onomastic units. A significant role in forming value-based connotations is played by the context in which proper names are used. The study has allowed to reveal the following axiological categories represented by precedent names and non-verbal signs: standards of hero, heroic deed, creator, scientist, positive traits of character and beauty; symbols of heroism, patriotism, Russian culture and art. It is demonstrated that proper names connected with the latter three values are most frequent in Russian political advertising texts. A special role is played by names associated with the Great Patriotic War and space exploration as well as names conveying orthodox values.
Clinical decision support system for lipid metabolism disorders: relevance and potential
Authors: Alieva A. S. , Pavlyuk E. I. , Alborova E. M. , Zvartau N. E. , Konradi A. O. , Katapano A. L. , Shlyakhto E. V.
Published: July 2021

Current guidelines for the management of patients with dyslipidemia are well known and easily accessible. Despite this, according to research data based on actual clinical practice, selection of optimal tactics for managing patients with dyslipidemia often causes difficulties and leads to a failure to achieve the target levels. Tools such as clinical decision support system (CDSS) can help clinicians follow current clinical guidelines, taking into account the diversity of phenotypic profiles and side effects. This review highlights the effectiveness of CDSS implementation in medical practice as a means for making decisions in managing patients with dyslipidemia, as well as presents the algorithm for CDSS for lipid metabolism disorders created by specialists of the Almazov National Medical Research Center and the University of Milan.
Inovação didática no Ensino de Física: um estudo sobre a adoção do método Instrução pelos Colegas(Peer Instruction) no contexto de Mestrados Profissionais em Ensino no Brasil
Authors: Petter Ana Amélia , Espinosa Tobias , Araujo Ives Solano
Published: July 2021

Entre outros fatores, a melhoria da qualidade da educação escolar demanda investimentos na formação didático-pedagógica dos docentes. Essa não deve ficar restrita à formação inicial, mas também incluir à continuada, os auxiliando a refletirem sobre suas práticas, construírem e adaptarem soluções inovadoras, à altura dos desafios que encontram em seus respectivos contextos educacionais. Ao encontro desse objetivo, apresentamos os resultados de um estudo sobre a adoção de um dos métodos ativos mais utilizados no ensino de física, o Instrução pelos Colegas (IpC), que vem sendo sistematicamente adotado no contexto dos Mestrados Profissionais em Ensino (MPEs) e no qual se demanda a elaboração e implementação de um produto educacional inovador e disseminável. Elegemos os participantes de nossa investigação a partir de uma busca por dissertações de MPE em que os professores utilizaram o IpC em aulas de Física, no período de 2004 a 2020. Foram selecionadas e analisadas 45 dissertações e um questionário sobre a aplicação do IpC enviado aos seus autores sendo investigadas as modificações mais frequentes no método e algumas das justificativas para essas mudanças. As mudanças mais recorrentes identificadas no estudo dizem respeito às atividades de preparação prévia por parte dos alunos e a dinâmica de aplicação dos testes conceituais em sala de aula. Além disso, levantamos hipóteses explicativas para tais modificações que podem servir de ponto de partida para estudos futuros sobre o tema. Apresentamos também algumas considerações sobre esses resultados no contexto educacional brasileiro, comparando com os resultados de estudos norte-americanos.
Dietary supplementation of tilapia juveniles reared in bft (bioflocs) tanks with dl-methionine
Authors: Lima Francisco Roberto dos Santos , Apoliano Marcos Luiz da Silva , Cavalcante Davi de Holanda , Sá Marcelo Vinícius Carmo
Published: July 2021

Abstract The present study aimed at determining the effects of dietary DL-methionine supplementation on the water quality, bioflocs composition and Nile tilapia juvenile’s (initial body weight = 2.76 ± 0.06 g) growth performance in BFT rearing tanks (18 fish/100-L tank). Fish were or not subjected to artificial feed restriction. The experimental treatments consisted of two control groups: 1 - no feed restriction, no methionine supplementation; 2 - feed restriction at 25%, no methionine supplementation. There were also four treated groups: 1 - feed restriction at 25%, dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 0.5%; 2 - feed restriction at 25%, dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 1.0%; 3 - feed restriction at 25%, dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 2.0%; 4 - feed restriction at 25%, DL-methionine supplementation of molasses at 1.0. Supplementation of the commercial diet with DL-methionine has not affected either the water quality of the BFT Nile tilapia rearing tanks or the proximate composition of the bioflocs. After 8 weeks, weight gain of fish reared in tanks with feed restriction and dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 1% or 2% has not differed (P>0.05) from the tanks without feed restriction. In conclusion, it is possible to restrict the daily feed allowances of Nile tilapia juveniles reared in BFT tanks at 25%, with no growth performance impairment, if a minimal dietary DL-methionine supplementation of 1.0% is given.
O cérebro no cinema contemporâneo
Authors: Rodrigues Isadora Meneses
Published: July 2021

Resumo Na cultura ocidental, o cérebro aparece como figura fundamental, referido muitas vezes como lugar exclusivo de origem da mente. Tal cenário configura um regime de visibilidade que tem sido classificado de virada neural. Posto isso, o texto investiga como as imagens midiáticas — em especial a cinematográfica — têm incorporado essa perspectiva neurocêntrica. A partir do conceito de imagem-neuro de Patricia Pisters (2012a) e à luz da filosofia deleuziana, tomamos como exemplo o filme eXistenZ (1999), de David Cronenberg, no intuito de evidenciar que o cinema recente encarna de forma paradoxal essa ideologia do “sujeito cerebral” (VIDAL; ORTEGA, 2019).
Hora de repensar o modelo regulatório das comunicações? As recomendações da OCDE para o sistema público de radiodifusão no Brasil
Authors: Pieranti Octavio Penna
Published: July 2021

Resumo Em outubro de 2020 a Organização para a Cooperação e Desen-volvimento Econômico (OCDE) publicou dois relatórios de avaliação das políticas públicas e da regulação do setor das comunicações no Brasil. Como o país tem ressaltado seu interesse em ingressar na OCDE e vem se adequando às manifestações da organização, as considerações feitas nos relatórios ganham mais relevância. O objetivo deste artigo é analisar as recomendações da OCDE para o modelo regulatório do setor no Brasil, centradas na instituição de um órgão regulador único e convergente, e para o sistema público de radiodifusão, dentre as quais está a revisão de alterações recentes na governança da EBC. Por terem sido recomendados pela OCDE, conclui-se que a mudança do modelo regulatório e os avanços no setor ganham força, porém sua efetiva implementação dependerá da superação de barreiras diversas.
Tuberculosis and diabetes mellitus: sociodemographic and clinical profile in Brazilian municipalities
Authors: Beraldo Aline Ale , Andrade Rubia Laine de Paula , Pinto Érika Simone Galvão , da Silva-Sobrinho Reinaldo Antônio , Saita Nanci Michele , Monroe Aline Aparecida , Villa Tereza Cristina Scatena
Published: July 2021

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the sociodemographic and clinical profile of tuberculosis cases with Diabetes Mellitus in Brazilian municipalities in the states of São Paulo, Paraná and Rio Grande do Norte. Method This is a cross-sectional study, whose population consisted of tuberculosis cases notified between 2010 and 2014. Data were collected from secondary sources. In the data analysis, descriptive analysis and multiple correspondence analysis techniques were used. Results The prevalence of diabetes among tuberculosis cases ranged from 4.5% to 13.4% in the municipalities. Evidence of an association was observed between tuberculosis/diabetes comorbidity and female population, age of 61 years or more, low schooling, negative HIV/AIDS, longer treatment time, self-administered treatment and cure. Conclusion The study showed a greater cure outcome in the profile of people with tuberculosis/diabetes comorbidity, even among those on a self-administered regime, which could favor the development of specific guidelines for the management of tuberculosis in these people.
Vulnerability, family violence and institutionalization: narratives for elderly and professionals in social welcome center
Authors: Ribeiro Dayane Akinara Toledo , Costa Aline Balandis , Mariano Pâmela Patricia , Baldissera Vanessa Denardi Antoniassi , Betioli Susanne Elero , Carreira Lígia
Published: July 2021

ABSTRACT Objective To know the institutionalization process and the functional clinical condition of elderly people who suffered family violence, from the perspective of the elderly and professionals. Methods Qualitative, which used oral history as a data collection technique. Held in a long-term institution for the elderly, using a semi-structured interview script. The participants were three nursing technicians, two nursing assistants, five caregivers for the elderly and eight elderly. Thematic analysis was performed with the aid of the MAXQDA® software. Results Three categories were identified: The condition of vulnerability and the care needs of the elderly, indicating welcoming as an intervention; Suffering and denial of conditions of vulnerability; and Situations of family violence and the positive aspects of reception. Conclusions Long-term institutions are considered important spaces for comprehensive and humanized care, as well as essential for the protection of elderly victims of family violence.
Factors associated with the development of skin allergies in premature newborns in the first year of life
Authors: Jantsch Leonardo Bigolin , Bridi Bruna Paola de Lima , Higashi Giovana Dornelles Callegaro , Arrué Andrea Moreira , Oliveira Diúlia Calegari de , Neves Eliane Tatsch
Published: July 2021

ABSTRACT Objective To identify the factors associated with the development of skin allergies in the first year of life in moderate and late preterm infants. Method: This is a cross-sectional study with 151 moderate and late preterm infants, born between May 2016 and May 2017. Participants were evaluated in the 3rd, 6th, 9th and 12th months of life, in telephone interviews. Statistical analyzes were performed in the SPSS software with frequency comparison tests and logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of skin allergy, in the perception of caregivers, among late and moderate preterm infants was 16%. Factors such as being admitted to neonatal intensive care (p = 0.006) and not being breastfed (p = 0.041) showed a significant association with the development of skin allergies in the 3rd and 12th months of life, respectively. Conclusion: Skin allergy, in the perception of caregivers, is more severe in newborn infants who have clinical respiratory and gastrointestinal manifestations, be it conditioning or cause-effect. Breastfeeding proved to be a protective factor in the first year of life.
Existential transformations in the process of facing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis by the family caregiver
Authors: Costa Lays Pedrosa dos Santos , Comassetto Isabel , Santos Regina Maria dos , Santos Amuzza Aylla Pereira dos , Malta Guilherme Oliveira de Albuquerque , Alves Karine de Melo Cezar
Published: July 2021

ABSTRACT Objective To understand the existential transformations of the family caregiver of a person living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Method Qualitative study based on assumptions of Martin Heidegger Existential Phenomenology, with 12 family caregivers of the person with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, in Alagoas. The testimonies were obtained from June 2019 to March 2020 and analyzed, categorized, and discussed based on the theoretical-philosophical framework adopted and thematic literature. Results Phenomenological sense of the existential transformations of the family caregiver of a person living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, unveiled with the categories: Being the caregiver of the person living with ALS; Being responsible for decision making; Resignifying the existence in view of the possibility of loss; Spirituality influencing the transformation process. Conclusions The family caregiver has an appropriate life due to the inherent vicissitudes of the disease, which provides moving moments that lead him to rethink his existence and to value life.
U.S. Monetary Policy Spillovers to Emerging Markets: Both Shocks and Vulnerabilities Matter
Authors: Ahmed Shaghil , Akinci Ozge , Queralto Albert
Published: July 2021

Using a macroeconomic model, we explore how sources of shocks and vulnerabilities matter for the transmission of U.S. monetary changes to emerging market economies (EMEs). We utilize a calibrated two-country New Keynesian model with financial frictions, partly-dollarized balance sheets, and imperfectly anchored inflation expectations. Contrary to other recent studies that also emphasize the sources of shocks, our approach allows the quantification of effects on real macroeconomic variables as well, in addition to financial spillovers. Moreover, we model the most relevant vulnerabilities structurally. We show that higher U.S. interest rates arising from stronger U.S. aggregate demand generate modestly positive spillovers to economic activity in EMEs with stronger fundamentals, but can be adverse for vulnerable EMEs. In contrast, U.S. monetary tightenings driven by a more-hawkish policy stance cause a substantial slowdown in activity in all EMEs. Our model also captures the challenging policy tradeos that EME central banks face. We show that these tradeoffs are more favorable when inflation expectations are well anchored.
Increased γ-Aminobutyric Acid Content of Germinated Brown Rice Produced in Membrane Reactor
Authors: Sitanggang Azis Boing , Joshua Michael , Munarko Hadi , Kusnandar Feri , Budijanto Slamet
Published: July 2021

Research background. Rice germination is a natural approach to enhance the physical and functional properties of brown rice. Thus, the aim of this study is to investigate the influence of different germination methods on functional properties of germinated brown rice and evaluate the process feasibility.
Experimental approach. Brown rice of IPB 3S variety was germinated with three different methods: (i) complete soaking without water replacement, (ii) complete soaking with water replacement every six hours, and (iii) complete soaking with continuous washing in the developed membrane-facilitated soaking reactor.
Results and conclusions. The application of the membrane reactor for producing germinated brown rice maintained the pH of the soaking solution relatively constant (i.e. 6.8–7.0). This indicated the circumvention of natural fermentation during brown rice germination. Moreover, the mass fraction of γ-aminobutyric acid in germinated brown rice produced in the membrane reactor was about 4.5-fold higher (169.2 mg/100 mg) than in ungerminated brown rice (36.82 mg/100 mg), and also higher than that of the other two soaking methods. The γ-oryzanol mass fractions and the antioxidant capacity expressed as ascorbic acid equivalents of germinated brown rice obtained with the three soaking methods varied from 32 to 38 mg/100 mg and 18 to 28 mg/100 g, respectively. Within this study, germination could also slightly reduce the transition temperatures of germinated brown rice starch gelatinization (to=73–74 °C, tp=76–77 °C and tc=~80 °C, where to, tp and tc are onset, peak and conclusion (final) temperatures). In conclusion, the production of germinated brown rice in the membrane reactor could enhance its γ-aminobutyric acid mass fraction and reduce wastewater production and is therefore considered more feasible.
Novelty and scientific contribution. This study demonstrates the feasibility of germinated brown rice production using a membrane-facilitated soaking reactor with enhancement of bioactive compound content, especially γ-aminobutyric acid, and minimised wastewater production.
The amphibians and reptiles of the Altamaha River, Georgia
Authors: Stevenson Dirk J. , Stackhouse Jill
Published: July 2021

Field surveys of 59 sites conducted in 1999–2012 and a review of existing museum specimens documented 29 species of amphibians (13 salamanders, 16 anurans) and 36 species of reptiles (1 crocodilian, 5 lizards, 19 snakes, 11 turtles) from the Altamaha River, Georgia and lowland habitats within its associated floodplain. Field sampling methods including visual encounter surveys, dipnetting, frog call surveys, and binocular/canoe/swim surveys for turtles. All were conducted in several distinct habitat types: The river mainstem, the river floodplain (which includes bottom-land hardwood forest, alluvial swamps, and oxbow lakes), and perennial seepages associated with north-facing bluffs. Biogeographically, the Altamaha River is a notable influence on the distributions of many amphibians and reptiles. Pitvipers are mostly absent in floodplain habitats along the river; the absence of what is generally perceived as a common semi-aquatic viper (Cotttonmouth, Agkistrodon piscivorus) from floodplain wetlands along much of the Altamaha River is intriguing and merits further study. Continued investigations and regular monitoring of reptilian and amphibian populations along the Altamaha River, a remarkable Coastal Plain stream and a wilderness waterway par excellence, are warranted.
Vertical structure use by the Stout Iguana (Cyclura pinguis) on Guana Island, BVI
Authors: Cheek Christopher A. , Hlavaty Shay , Mougey Krista , Perkins Rebecca N. , Peyton Mark A. , Ryan Caitlin N. , Zavaleta Jennifer C. , Boal Clint W. , Perry Gad
Published: July 2021

The Stout Iguana (Cyclura pinguis) is a critically endangered species endemic to the Puerto Rico Bank and currently restricted to the British Virgin Islands (BVI). Our study on Guana Island, BVI, focused on vertical structure use by adult (n = 4) and juvenile (n = 11) iguanas with tracking bobbins. We recorded structure types used, heights attained on structures, distances between structures, and structure sizes. We found that Stout Iguanas used vertical structure more than previously documented. Trees comprised a significantly greater (P <  0.001) proportion of structures used by juveniles than by adults, whereas rocks comprised the greatest proportion of structures used by adults. In addition to differential structure use, juveniles climbed significantly higher (2.4 vs. 0.9 m on average; P < 0.001) than adults. We found no difference in the diameter or distance between structures used by adults and juveniles. Our results suggest that vertical structure use may be an important habitat element for free-ranging juvenile Stout Iguanas. Habitat management that provides vertical structure may be advantageous for the conservation of this species.
Chinese Alligators
Authors: Liu Victor H.
Published: July 2021

I present previously unpublished data on the breeding habits and related conservation efforts on behalf of the endangered endemic Chinese Alligator (Alligator sinensis) collected through interviews and observations conducted at the Changxing Nature Reserve & Breeding Center for Chinese Alligators. The objective of this study was to provide additional material to supplement that presented in the most current and comprehensive English-language literature on the species. Conservation efforts on behalf of the Chinese Alligator are hindered by heavily polluting industries, such as coal-fired power plants and battery plants, which affect all local fauna. In addition, captive population satistics at Changxing and Xuancheng breeding centers have changed since 2010. Additional observations of the Chinese Alligator include nesting behaviors, ovipositioning, and temperature and humidity conditions in nests. I observed experiments comparing temperature-dependent sex determination to that in the closely related American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). I provide information on reintroduction efforts by both Chinese captive breeding centers in different wild zones and discuss definitioono  of "wild," with which Chinese Alligator reintroduction efforts do not conform. Further species conservation efforts should be facilitated by a master plan and studbook, implemented to maximize genetic variation and minimize the effects of inbreeding depression in captive populations with few founders.
Notes on the Distribution and Natural History of the Eastern Wormsnake (Carphophis amoenus amoenus) in West Virginia
Authors: Diefenbacher Eric H. , Pauley Thomas K.
Published: July 2021

Small fossorial snakes, such as the Eastern Wormsnake (Carphophis amoenus amoenus), are often neglected in studies since they lead a fossorial life and are frequently hard to find. Since it was last studied nearly 40 years ago, we present an update on distribution, habitat preferences, and diet of the Eastern Wormsnake in West Virginia. We found that this species resides in only a fraction of its original range due to habitat destruction by industrial, residential, and commercial developments. Habitat data suggests this species can tolerate a range of soil temperatures (15–24 °C), air temperatures (23.1 degrees Celsius), and relative humidity (24.5-80%), and can be found on nearly all slope directions. Dietary analysis showed annelids make up the majority of their diet but other invertebrate prey are also taken.
Combining Citizen Science with Traditional Biotic Surveys to Enhance Knowledge Regarding the Natural History of Secretive Species
Authors: Smith Walter H. , Slemp Skyla L. , Stanley Conner D. , Blackburn Melissa N. , Wayland Jack
Published: July 2021

The Green Salamander (Aneides aeneus) is a secretive, arboreal cliff specialist distributed discontinuously across the southern and central Appalachian Mountains, USA. While intensively studied in some parts of its range in the Appalachian Plateau  and Blue Ridge Provinces, the distribution of A. aeneus is still poorly understood, particularly in the Cumberland Mountains physiographic province of the Appalachian region. This data deficiency is partly the result of a lack of formal historic surveys across this region, coupled with a high amount of privately owned land that is inaccessible to traditional biotic surveys. We used a combination of citizen science efforts and traditional field surveys to investigate the distribution and status of A. aeneus across the Cumberland Mountains of southwestern Virginia, USA. Local landowners and outdoor recreation enthusiasts reported a relatively high rate of encounters with A. aeneus, verifying the species’ persistence at four historic localities and leading to the discovery of 36 previously unknown populations. Although we are cautious about making inferences about the true conservation status of A. aeneus across this region given the scarcity of current data, these findings suggest that the distribution of A. aeneus in Virginia has been vastly underestimated and that expanded monitoring programs are needed to further ascertain this species’ status. More broadly, our results illustrate the utility of coupling public initiatives with more traditional field surveys to expand the biogeographic knowledge of secretive, difficult-to-study amphibian species.
A Rapid Survey of the Critically Endangered Zapata Toad, Peltophryne florentinoi (Anura: Bufonidae), in Cuba
Authors: Bosch Roberto Alonso , Cobos Cobos Marlon E.
Published: July 2021

We provide new distributional data for the most geographically restricted and threatened Cuban toad, the Zapata Toad (Peltophryne florentinoi), and evaluate this information for its potential conservation implications. Prior to this survey, the species was known from only one locality. Although our records extend the geographic distribution about 20 km to the east from the previous locality, unsuitable habitats limited the species’ true extent of occurrence. Intermittent salt-water lagoons, local lithographic features, and anthropogenic disturbances impede the continuity of the toad’s distribution along the coastal forests. New surveys and long-term monitoring protocols could offer better clues about the distribution, biology, and conservation status of this species.
Distribution of two species of Curly-tailed Lizards, genus Leiocephalus, in a metropolitan park, and the rediscovery of a nominate subspecies
Authors: Landestoy T. Miguel A. , Reyes Francis O.
Published: July 2021

Two Hispaniolan endemic species of lizards in the genus Leiocephalus (L. lunatus Cochran 1934 and L. personatus Cope 1862) are parapatric in an urban park in Santo Domingo, capital of the Dominican Republic. In the course of this study, we unexpectedly rediscovered the long-overlooked nominate subspecies of Leiocephalus lunatus 1 km inland from the vicinity of the type locality as what appears to be a relict population. Two congeners in the same urban setting within their natural ranges is an uncommon scenario. We provide detailed distributional data for both species within the Parque Mirador del Sur, and also report surviving populations of L. l. lunatus west of its type locality.
Using citizen-science reports to document range expansion of the introduced Chinese Water Dragon (Physignathus cocincinus) in Hong Kong
Authors: Mo Matthew
Published: July 2021

The first incursion of Chinese Water Gragons (Physignathus cocincinus) in Hong Kong occurred in October 2004 on Tsing Yi Island. This study identified a further 54 citizen-science reports of dragons in different locations of Hong Kong. Although there were no subsequent reports from Tsing Yi Island, there were recurring reports in five other locations. In Aberdeen, reports started in 2010, concentrating on the grounds of Ocean Park. There were also numerous reports from the Kam Shan Country Park since 2010, the Pok Fu Lam Reservoir since 2011, the Lion Rock Country Park since 2012, and the Sha Tin District since 2014. Dragons were mostly observed in natural areas, but also in urban areas. The highest number of sightings were reported in April. Combinations of males and females were identified in four of the locations with numerous reports, suggesting that these populations are self-sustaining.
SEZARYEN SONRASI SÜTÜR NEDENLİ İYATROJENİK MESANE TAŞI
Authors: KILIÇÇALAN Harun
Published: July 2021

Mesane taşları bayan hastalarda nadiren görülmektedir

ve bu nedenle geçirilmiş pelvik cerrahilere bağlı

iyatrojenik nedenler akla gelmelidir. Mesane cerrahileri

ya da mesaneye yakın pelvik cerrahilerde mesaneden

iyatrojenik sütür geçilmesine bağlı taş oluşabilmektedir.

Bu deneysel hayvan çalışmalarında da

gösterilmiştir. Sezaryen ameliyatı öyküsü bulunan,

sütür materyali etrafında oluşan mesane taşı olgusunu

ve endoskopik tedavisini sunuyoruz.
Processing ddRAD data from raw fastqs to vcf v1
Authors: Nelson Thom , Finseth Findley , Fishman Lila , Sevier Berg Colette
Published: July 2021

This is a pipeline that the Fishman lab uses for processing paired-end ddRAD data, from fastq to vcf. These scripts were written and pipeline developed by Findley Finseth and Thom Nelson.
Measuring Photophysiology of Attached Stages of Colacium sp. by a Cuvette-Type Fast Repetition Rate Fluorometer v1
Authors: Kazama Takehiro , Hayakawa Kazuhide , Shimotori Koichi , Imai Akio
Published: July 2021

Fast repetition rate fluorometer (FRRf) is a beneficial method for measuring photosystem II (PSII) photophysiology and primary productivity. Although FRRf can measure PSII absorption cross section (σPSII), maximum photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm), effective photochemical efficiency (Fq′/Fm′), and non-photochemical quenching (NPQNSV) for various eukaryotic algae and cyanobacteria, almost all FRRf studies to date have focused on phytoplankton. Here, we describe how to measure PSII photophysiology of an epizoic alga Colacium sp.Ehrenberg 1834 (Euglenophyta), in its attached stage (attached to zooplankton) using cuvette-type FRRf. First, we estimated the effects of substrate zooplankton (Scapholeberis mucronata O.F. Müller 1776, Cladocera, Daphniidae) on background fluorescence and σPSII, Fv/Fm, Fq′/Fm′, and NPQNSV of planktonic Colacium sp. To validate our methodology, we recorded photophysiology measurements of attached Colacium sp. on S. mucronata and compared these results with its planktonic stage. Representative results showed how the protocol can determine effects of Ca and Mn on Colacium sp. photophysiology and identify the various effects of Mn enrichment between attached and planktonic stages. Finally, we discuss the adaptability of this protocol to other periphytic algae.
NEODYMIUM CUPRATE SOLID SOLUTION SUBSTITUTIONS OF SUBMICRON DISPERSION
Authors: Nedilko S. , Dzyazko O. , Voitenko T. , Zelenko M. , Fesych I. , Ivanov O.
Published: July 2021

High-temperature superconducting compounds based on rare-earth elements with a perovskite-like structure play an important role in the creation of modern functional materials with special magnetic, superconducting and electrophysical properties. The potential of high-temperature superconducting compounds is widely used in microelectronics, medicine, transport, telecommunications technology, energy and more. Increased functionality, performance and reliability are the driving force for the production, research and application of this class of inorganic functional materials. Solid solutions of the type NdBa2–xNdxCu3O7–δ, are structural analogues of HTSC cuprate YBa2Cu3Oy (Y123). The study of the substitution of Ba2+ atoms for Nd3+ is important for obtaining new promising materials with various electrophysical and magnetic properties, as well as improving the characteristics of existing substances. Compounds of the composition NdBa2-xNdxCu3O7–δ, where x = 0–0.9 were synthesized sol-gel method. The parameters of the crystallattice and the transition temperature to the superconducting state for the synthesized compounds are calculated. The dependence of the parameters and the type of symmetry of the crystallattice of systems on the degree of substitution of x is investigated. It was found that the samples, sol-gel method are single-phase. The unsubstituted sample of NdBa2-xNdxCu3O7–δ, is single-phase, has an orthorhombic syngony of o-Nd123 and a space group Pmmm. Within creasing degree of substitution x in solid solutions of NdBa2–xNdxCu3O7–δ, where x = 0–0.9, there is a transition from the orthorhombic to tetragonal phase (space symmetry group P4/mmm).