bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ministererlaubnis für Kartellfälle: Kooperation im Sinne des Gemeinwohls?
Authors: Budzinski Oliver , Stöhr Annika
Published: December 2020

Mit der Umsetzung der 7. Novelle des Gesetzes gegen Wettbewerbsbeschränkungen (GWB) wurde im Jahr 2005 die Ausnahmeregelung des sog. Ministerkartells nach § 8 GWB ersatzlos gestrichen. Ähnlich dem noch bestehenden Instrument der Ministererlaubnis für Fusionen nach § 42 GWB konnte bis dahin der amtierende Bundeswirtschaftsminister aus „überwiegenden Gründen der Gesamtwirtschaft und des Gemeinwohls“ (§ 8 Abs. 1 GWB) sowie bei unmittelbarer „Gefahr für den Bestand des überwiegenden Teils der Unternehmen eines Wirtschaftszweigs“ (§ 8 Abs. 2 Satz 1 GWB) eine Ausnahme vom Kartellverbot nach § 1 GWB aussprechen. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden zunächst die Ausgestaltung und die ökonomische Sinnhaftigkeit des Instrumentes an sich beleuchtet. Dabei wird insbesondere auf potenzielle Gemeinwohlgründe eingegangen, welche in der aktuellen wissenschaftlichen und politischen Diskussion im Vordergrund stehen: Umwelt- und Tierschutz, sowie die Bildung und Unterstützung von sog. National Champion Unternehmen. Abschließend wird ein Vergleich der Instrumente Ministerkartell und Ministererlaubnis für Fusionen vorgenommen, welcher zeigt, dass ein ministererlaubtes Kartell häufig weniger starke negative Wettbewerbswirkungen hätte als eine irreversible Fusion. Aus ökonomischer Sicht wäre somit ein Ersatz des vieldiskutierten Instrumentes der Ministererlaubnis nach § 42 GWB durch eine Regelung zur Ausnahmeerlaubnis von Kartellen zu erwägen. Allerdings würde jedes derartige Instrument erheblicher Absicherungen gegen eine ungeeignete oder missbräuchliche Anwendung bedürfen, ohne welche ein Verzicht die bessere Lösung darstellt.
Staatskapitalismus und Chancengleichheit
Authors: Kühling Jürgen , Reinhold Philipp , Weck Thomas
Published: December 2020

Die Globalisierung hat dazu beigetragen, dass Unternehmen aus Drittstaaten wie z. B. China in der EU in wachsendem Maße tätig sind. Der chinesische Staat greift im System einer „sozialistischen Marktwirtschaft mit chinesischen Merkmalen“ allerdings in vielfältiger Weise in die Wirtschaft ein, unter anderem mit Subventionen. Die zunehmende Bedeutung Chinas für die Weltwirtschaft bringt es mit sich, dass sich derartige Eingriffe zunehmend spürbar zum Nachteil europäischer Unternehmen auswirken. Der Wettbewerbsschutz im EU-Binnenmarkt ist nach den bestehenden Regeln gerade im Fall drittstaatlicher Subventionen lückenhaft. Die Außenhandelsregeln stellen zwar Instrumente bereit, um auf „unfaire“ Handelspraktiken zu reagieren. Auch diese Instrumente gewährleisten aber keinen umfassenden Schutz des Wettbewerbs im EU-Binnenmarkt. Zu einem solchen Schutz könnte ein Drittlandsbeihilfeinstrument (DBI) beitragen, mit dem drittstaatliche Subventionen und mitgliedstaatliche Beihilfen im Grundsatz gleichgestellt würden.
Increasing the efficiency of an interceptor system for rocket engine thrust vector control
Authors:   Institute of Technical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and the State Space Agency of Ukraine, Strelnykov H.O. , Tokareva O.L. ,   Institute of Technical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and the State Space Agency of Ukraine, Ihnatiev O.D. ,   Institute of Technical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and the State Space Agency of Ukraine, Pryadko N.S. ,   Institute of Technical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and the State Space Agency of Ukraine, Ternova K.V. ,   Institute of Technical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and the State Space Agency of Ukraine
Published: December 2020

This work is concerned with studying the static and dynamic characteristics of the gas-dynamic (interceptor) subsystem of a combined system for thrust vector control and identifying ways to increase its efficiency. The combined control system includes a mechanical and a gas-dynamic subsystem. The gas-dynamic thrust vector control subsystem is the most important and reliable part of the combined control system. Consideration is given to disturbing the supersonic flow by installing a solid obstacle (interceptor) in the middle part of the rocket engine nozzle. An important advantage of this method to gas-dynamically control the rocket engine thrust vector is that the thrust vector control loss of the specific impulse is nearly absent because the control force is produced without any consumption of the working medium. Injection through the interceptor protects it against exposure to the nozzle supersonic flow and produces an additional lateral force. By now, the optimum height of the mass supply opening in the interceptor that maximizes the control force has not been determined, and the dynamic characteristics of this system have not been studied. The aim of this work is to find the optimum position of the opening for working medium supply through the interceptor that maximizes the added control force and to determine the effect of the transfer functions of the interceptor system components on the characteristics of the control force production transient. As a result of the study of the static characteristics of the supersonic flow disturbance in a nozzle with an interceptor through which a secondary working medium is injected, it is concluded that in terms of thrust vector control efficiency and interceptor protection the injection opening should be situated in the upper part of the interceptor. The transfer function of interceptor control of the liquid-propellant rocket engine thrust vector is obtained with account for the production of an additional control force by the injection of a liquid propellant component. It is found that the loss of stability of the operation of an injection interceptor unit depends on the transient of the working medium injection control valve.
Study of the applicability of porous pressings of aluminum and aluminum alloys as energy-absorbing elements
Authors:   Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, Lednianskyi O.F. , Bisyk S.P. ,   Central Scientific Research Institute of Armament and Military Equipment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Sanin A.F. ,   Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, Poshyvalov V.P. ,   Institute of Technical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and the State Space Agency of Ukraine
Published: December 2020

This work reports the results of experimental studies on the applicability of porous pressings of aluminum alloys to passive safety systems. The porous pressings were made from aluminum and aluminum alloy powders with a particle size up to 200 ?m using a hydraulic press. The porosity was varied by varying the pressure in the press hydrosystem and the pressing force. The specimens were not sintered, and no plasticizer was added. To determine which specimen characteristic, the mass or the porosity, is more important, specimens of the same mass (0.01 kg) were used [the deviation did not exceed (2.7 ? 2.8) % ]. To determine the impact absorption ability of the porous pressings of aluminum and aluminum alloy powders, a vertical impact testing machine was used. The ram mass was 22.5 kg (weight 220 N), the fall speed was 5 m/s, and the fall energy was 300 J. The impact absorption ability of the porous pressings was determined by comparing the accelerations and rebound height of the ram in the presence of a porous pressing with their calculated free-fall values. The experiments showed that the use of specimens of maximum porosity decreases the impact energy by the value of the plastic work of deformation and the fracture energy. A comparison of the performance of different specimens showed that the energy absorption ability increases with porosity. As demonstrated by the experiments, porous pressings of aluminum and aluminum alloys can be used as energy -absorbing elements of passive safety systems for commercial and armored combat vehicles, and the impact absorption ability of porous fillers, in particular porous pressings of aluminum and aluminum alloys, can be determined using vertical impact testing machines. Using porous pressings of aluminum and aluminum alloys as an energy-absorbing material decreases the impact acceleration by a factor of 30 to 85 at an impact speed up to 5 m/s. The ability of a pressing to reduce the impact acceleration depends on its dimensions and porosity to a greater extent than on its mass. The greatest decrease in impact acceleration is provided by porous pressings of maximum porosity, in which the impact energy is converted to the plastic work of deformation and the fracture energy.
Early Physical Abuse and Adult Outcomes
Authors: Lansford Jennifer E. , Godwin Jennifer , McMahon Robert J. , Crowley Max , Pettit Gregory S. , Bates John E. , Coie John D. , Dodge Kenneth A.
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND:

Because most physical abuse goes unreported and researchers largely rely on retrospective reports of childhood abuse or prospective samples with substantiated maltreatment, long-term outcomes of physical abuse in US community samples are unknown. We hypothesized that early childhood physical abuse would prospectively predict adult outcomes in education and economic stability, physical health, mental health, substance use, and criminal behavior.

METHODS:

Researchers in two multisite studies recruited children at kindergarten entry and followed them into adulthood. Parents completed interviews about responses to the child’s problem behaviors during the kindergarten interview. Interviewers rated the probability that the child was physically abused in the first 5 years of life. Adult outcomes were measured by using 23 indicators of education and economic stability, physical health, mental health, substance use, and criminal convictions reported by participants and their peers and in school and court records.

RESULTS:

Controlling for potential confounds, relative to participants who were not physically abused, adults who had been abused were more likely to have received special education services, repeated a grade, be receiving government assistance, score in the clinical range on externalizing or internalizing disorders, and have been convicted of a crime in the past year (3.20, 2.14, 2.00, 2.42, 2.10, and 2.61 times more likely, respectively) and reported levels of physical health that were 0.10 SDs lower. No differences were found in substance use.

CONCLUSIONS:

Unreported physical abuse in community samples has long-term detrimental effects into adulthood. Pediatricians should talk with parents about using only nonviolent discipline and support early interventions to prevent child abuse.
Deadlock Detection using Static Analysis
Authors: Polyakov Sergey Andreevich , Borodin Alexey Evgenevich
Published: December 2020

The paper describes an extension to summary based static program analysis to find deadlock errors. Summary based analysis is a popular approach aimed at the detection of bugs in programs due to its high performance and scalability. At the same time, the implementation of deadlock detectors in such an analysis is nontrivial, because there is no information about the locks held higher in the call stack during the process of function intraprocedural analysis. A lock graph, which is built during the main analysis, is used to model the semantics of multithreaded programs. Lock graph is a modification of call graph which contains additional information about held locks. After the lock graph is built, the deadlock detector is launched. Both the construction of the lock graph and the deadlock detection algorithm do not require significant processor time. On the performed measurements, the total analysis time increased by 4%. Based on the results of the analysis of 8 open source projects in C/C++/Java with a total size of more than 14 million lines of code, the proposed algorithm showed a high level of true positives. The described algorithms were implemented in the Svace tool.
Synthesis of a Machine Learning Model for Detecting Computer Attacks Based on the CICIDS2017 Dataset
Authors: Goryunov Maxim Nikolaevich , Matskevich Andrey Georgievich , Rybolovlev Dmitry Aleksandrovich
Published: December 2020

The paper deals with the construction and practical implementation of the model of computer attack detection based on machine learning methods. Among available public datasets one of the most relevant was chosen - CICIDS2017. For this dataset, the procedures of data preprocessing and sampling were developed in detail. In order to reduce computation time, the only class of computer attacks (brute force, XSS, SQL injection) was left in the training set. The procedure of feature space construction is described sequentially, which allowed to significantly reduce its dimensions - from 85 to 10 most important features. The quality assessment of ten most common machine learning models on the obtained pre-processed dataset was made. Among the models (algorithms) that demonstrated the best results (k-nearest neighbors, decision tree, random forest, AdaBoost, logistic regression), taking into account the minimum time of execution, the choice of random forest model was justified. А quasi-optimal selection of hyper parameters was carried out, which made it possible to improve the quality of the model in comparison with the previously published research results. The synthesized model of attack detection was tested on real network traffic. The model has shown its validity only under the condition of training on data collected in a specific network, since important features depend on the physical structure of the network and the settings of the equipment used. The conclusion was made that it is possible to use machine learning methods to detect computer attacks taking into account these limitations.
Application of HDBSСAN Method for Clustering scRNA-seq Data
Authors: Akimenkova Maria Andreevna , Maznina Anna Anatolyevna , Naumov Anton Yurievich , Karpulevich Evgeny Andreevich
Published: December 2020

One of the main tasks in the analysis of single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data is the identification of cell types and subtypes, which is usually based on some method of clustering. There is a number of generally accepted approaches to solving the clustering problem, one of which is implemented in the Seurat package. In addition, the quality of clustering is influenced by the use of preprocessing algorithms, such as imputation, dimensionality reduction, feature selection, etc. In the article, the HDBSCAN hierarchical clustering method is used to cluster scRNA-seq data. For a more complete comparison Experiments and comparisons were made on two labeled datasets: Zeisel (3005 cells) and Romanov (2881 cells). To compare the quality of clustering, two external metrics were used: Adjusted Rand index and V-measure. The experiments demonstrated a higher quality of clustering by the HDBSCAN method on the Zeisel dataset and a poorer quality on the Romanov dataset.
ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY IN THE CONTEXT OF SMART CITY CONCEPT: TECHNOLOGICAL ASPECT
Authors:   ФГАОУ ВО «Российский университет дружбы народов ", Олег Гришин
Published: December 2020

The problems of ensuring environmental safety through the prism of the Smart City concept are analyzed. Emphasis is placed on the technologies of the “smart city”. The effects of the use of such technologies in the environmental sphere are considered. The problem of radiophobia in Moscow is illustrated. The costs of operating the media in covering environmental issues are indicated. Let us give an example of a radiation-ecological monitoring system.
URBAN TRAFFIC PROBLEMS: THE CONTRIBUTION OF TRADITIONS,SOCIAL ENGINEERING AND INSTITUTIONAL CHANGES
Authors:   ФГБОУ ВО «Пермский национальный исследовательский политехнический университет», Михаил Рубинов
Published: December 2020

Urban studies need theoretical approaches. The article reviewed criteria for such approaches’ selection. Selected approaches greatly emphasize the entrepreneurship contribution to public goods’ provision, specifically, in the field of urban traffic. The barriers for solving of urban traffic problems were identified due to these approaches supplemented supplies with comparative historical method. The principles of such problems’ solving were offered.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE NOVOSIBIRSK AGGLOMERATION TRANSPORT SYSTEM
Authors:   Сибирский государственный университет путей сообщения, Анна Сотник , Александр Герман ,   Сибирский государственный университет путей сообщения
Published: December 2020

The importance and laboriousness of the development of the transport system of the agglomeration of Novosibirsk is demonstrated. The article presents all kinds of strategies for improvement and development, the disadvantages and advantages of the existing agglomeration. The role of agglomeration in Novosibirsk and the Novosibirsk region is shown. The conclusion is made about the importance of the development of the agglomeration of Novosibirsk.
DIRECTIONS FOR OPTIMIZING BUDGET EXPENDITURES FOR FINANCING MUNICIPAL INSTITUTIONS OF CULTURE (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE CITY OF PERM)
Authors:   ФГБОУ ВО «Пермский национальный исследовательский политехнический университет», Евгения Вшикова
Published: December 2020

The issues of optimization of budget expenditures for financing municipal cultural institutions are analyzed. The following directions of optimization are considered: unification (optimization) of municipal cultural institutions and the introduction of unified accounting. Based on the traditional analysis of documents, conclusions were drawn about the need to solve key problems of organizing and financing municipal cultural institutions of the city of Perm, and appropriate recommendations were developed.
INFLUENCE OF THE PLACEMENT OF HIGH-TECH COMPANIES IN THE REGIONS ON THE STRUCTURE OF THE CONCEPT OF SMART CITY IN THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors:   АНО ВО «Институт законоведения и управления ВПА», Андрей Жуковский
Published: December 2020

This article shows that the deployment of modern high-tech companies in the regions affects the development of smart cities. In particular, it was noted that high-tech companies not only create high-tech products, but also are an example of optimization of management processes, economical consumption of various types of resources, and also serve as one of the factors for the accumulation of intellectual capital and the quality of life of the population in the regions. It is shown that modern advanced technologies of a smart city affect not only the social aspects of the region’s development, serve to improve its legislative, managerial and social foundations, but also encourage megacities to solve the problems of efficient use of the environment.
LOCAL ELITES INTERRELATIONS IN TRANSFORMED MUNICIPALITIES: DOES THE ENLARGEMENT OF TERRITORIES LEAD TO ELITE CONSOLIDATION? (ON THE EXAMPLE OF MUNICIPALITIES IN PERM REGION)
Authors:   Пермский федеральный исследовательский центр УрО РАН, Виталий Ковин
Published: December 2020

The article examines the levels of political loyalty of Permskii Krai citizens through the analysis of their participation in Russian General Voting on amendments to the Constitution and Permskii Krai Governor Elections held in 2020. Based on the analysis of electoral statistics, the article makes a conclusion that the electoral base of the current political regime is moving away from the population of large cities. The response from “urban” voters on presidential initiatives turned out to be much weaker than that of “rural” voters and their electoral support is much lower than their share of the general population of the region.
CULTURAL SYMBOLS OF THE CITY OF PERM IN THE EYES OF STUDENTS OF THE AERIAL ENGINEERING
Authors:   КГАПОУ «Пермский авиационный техникум им. А.Д. Швецова»., Андрей Крюков
Published: December 2020

The article discusses a topic that is relevant for the modern Russian city: the cultural development of the city, its creative potential, identifying development prospects, identifying problems that impede cultural development. The purpose of the article is to analyze the cultural symbols of the city of Perm based on the results of a sociological survey. In the work, the method of sociological survey, the interview method and the method of constructing a sociological model are used.
URBAN PLANNING POLICY: THE SPECIFICS OF WORKING WITH VISUAL IMAGES AND THE TRANSITION FROM CLASSICAL MEDIA TO THE SPACE OF NEW MEDIA
Authors:   Комплекс градостроительной политики и строительства Москвы, Дмитрий Антипин , Олег Шишков ,   ГБУ «Мосстройинформ», Яна Пархоменко ,   ФГБОУ ДПО «Академия медиаиндустрии»
Published: December 2020

The basic principles of content production for coverage of urban policy issues are analyzed. Content is divided into two types, and a definition is entered for them. The article considers the features of production, and raises the question of changing the basic principles of content production during the transition to the New media space.
COWORKING IS A PUBLIC SPACE IN A SMART CITY
Authors:   ФГБОУ ВО «Пермский национальный исследовательский политехнический университет», Александра Соларева
Published: December 2020

The article analyzes coworking as a public place in a smart city. The idea of coworking appeared with the development of freelancing, since its main drawback is the lack of a workplace, a team, and a generally "working" atmosphere. Coworking spaces are in demand and are gaining popularity in Russian cities in modern economic conditions, in the context of a pandemic and digitalization. To determine the significance of various parameters of the coworking organization, the author conducted a research. It examined three cities: Perm, Yekaterinburg, and Samara, and used content analysis to study the expectations of coworking users.
Actitudes del personal de enfermería ante la muerte de sus pacientes
Authors:   Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Morales Ramón Fabiola , Ramírez López Fabiola , Cruz León Aralucy , Arriaga Zamora Rosa Ma , Vicente Ruíz María Asunción , De la Cruz García Carmen , García Hernández Nallely
Published: December 2020

Introducción: El proceso de morir se ha desplazado a lo largo de la historia desde la familia y el hogar hasta los profesionales de salud y los hospitales. Cuidar demanda actitudes, conocimientos y destrezas que se deben adquirir y perfeccionarse durante la formación disciplinar. Objetivo: Explorar las actitudes que muestra el personal de enfermería que labora en áreas hospitalarias críticas ante el proceso de la muerte de pacientes. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, bajo un muestreo no probabilístico por conveniencia se obtuvo una muestra final de 71 enfermeras profesionales que laboran en áreas críticas de dos hospitales de alta especialidad en Tabasco, México. El instrumento utilizado fue “Actitudes ante la muerte” (CAM-2), traducido del original de Martin y Salovely. Resultados: Los profesionales de enfermería que participaron en el estudio tienen una edad promedio de 32.5 años (DE=7), donde el 71.8% de los participantes pertenecen al sexo femenino. El 67.6% del personal de enfermería muestra una actitud de indiferencia ante la muerte, solo un 9.9% muestra una actitud positiva. Con relación a la perspectiva de actitud de temor el 46.5% manifiesta que pensar en la muerte les genera ansiedad, mientras que el 39.4% ve la muerte de los pacientes como algo natural. Conclusiones: El personal de enfermería posee sentimientos de indiferencia ante el cuidado del paciente ante la muerte, sin embargo, consideran que aceptar su propia muerte los lleva a cuidar con más libertad.
The State and Human Rights: The Problems of Restrictions in the Pandemic
Authors: Pozharova Lyubov , Kosolapova Natalia
Published: December 2020

Introduction: in the context of modern life related to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, human rights and their implementation whose main goal is the existence of important social, economic and political relations are forced to be limited by the state. In this regard, the authors of the paper aim to analyze the problems that arise when the state interferes with the private sphere, and suggest the solutions that can serve as the additional guarantees of the full exercise of their rights by citizens. Methods: when writing the paper, the provisions of dialectical materialism and such methods as deduction and induction, analysis and synthesis, system, logical and other general scientific methods were used. Results: as a result of the analysis of the prevailing political and environmental conditions, it is possible to state that in an emergency situation, people often mistakenly perceive measures coming from the state as restrictions on their rights, which causes them to feel insecure and vulnerable. This may exacerbate a pre-existing sense of discrimination and inequality among certain social groups that require special economic and social support from the state. The research focuses on the problem of creating the necessary conditions for the state to ensure that individuals exercise and protect their rights without putting their lives and health at risk. The authors also consider the aspects related to citizens’ access to participation in solving socially significant issues of public administration. Conclusions: as a result of the research, the main problems that arise from the state’s restricting the rights in the pandemic are considered, as well as possible solutions that allow the state to effectively ensure stability in society, guaranteeing the implementation of basic human and civil rights and freedoms, and creating equal and stable social relations.
Low dosis of alteplase, for ischemic stroke after Enchanted and its determinants, a single center experience
Authors: Brunser Alejandro Michel , Mazzon Enrico , Cavada Gabriel , Mansilla Eloy , Rojo Alexis , Almeida Juan , Olavarría Verónica Viviana , Muñoz-Venturelli Paula , Lavados Pablo Manuel
Published: December 2020

Abstract Background: Low-dose alteplase (LrtPA) has been shown not to be inferior to the standard-dose (SrtPA) with respect to death/disability. Objective: We aim to evaluate the percentage of patients treated with LrtPA at our center after the ENCHANTED trial and the factors associated with the use of this dosage. Methods: Prospective study in consecutive patients with an acute stroke admitted between June 2016 and November 2018. Results: 160 patients were treated with intravenous thrombolysis, 50% female; mean age 65.4±18.5 years. Of these, 48 patients (30%) received LrtPA. In univariate analysis, LrtPA was associated with patient's age (p=0.000), previous modified Rankin scale scores (mRS) (p<0.000), hypertension (p=0.076), diabetes mellitus (p=0.021), hypercholesterolemia (p=0.19), smoking (p=0.06), atrial fibrillation (p=0.10), history of coronary artery disease (p=0.06), previous treatment with antiplatelet agents (p<0.000), admission International Normalized Ratio-INR (p=0.18), platelet count (p=0.045), leukoaraiosis on neuroimaging (p<0.003), contraindications for thrombolytic treatment (p=0.000) and endovascular treatment (p=0.027). Previous relevant bleedings were determinants for treatment with LrtPA. Final diagnosis on discharge of stroke mimic was significant (p=0.02) for treatment with SrtPA. In multivariate analysis, mRS (OR: 2.21; 95%CI 1.37‒14.19), previous antiplatelet therapy (OR: 11.41; 95%CI 3.98‒32.70), contraindications for thrombolysis (OR: 56.10; 95%CI 8.81‒357.80), leukoaraiosis (OR: 4.41; 95%CI 1.37‒14.10) and diagnosis of SM (OR: 0.22; 95%CI 0.10‒0.40) remained independently associated. Conclusions: Following the ENCHANTED trial, LrtPA was restricted to 30% of our patients. The criteria that clinicians apply are based mostly on clinical variables that may increase the risk of brain or systemic hemorrhage or exclude the patient from treatment with lytic drugs.
Depression is a major determinant of sleep abnormalities in patients with epilepsy
Authors: KARAPINAR Edanur , YUNUSOĞLU Ceren , TEKIN Betül , DEDE Hava Özlem , BEBEK Nerses , BAYKAN Betül , GÜRSES Candan
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT Introduction: We aimed to identify sleep disorders in patients with epilepsy and compare this group with a healthy population. We also analyzed the features of sleep disorders in patients with epilepsy to demonstrate the effect of seizures and seizure types on sleep. Methods: Our study assessed 43 patients with epilepsy and 53 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. The demographic and clinical data of all participants were recorded. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group Rating Scale, Berlin Questionnaire, and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) were administered to all study subjects. The interview used to evaluate insomnia is based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition - DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Results: Twenty-four patients (55.8%) and 26 controls (49.1%) are women. The mean age of patients and controls was 34.2±11.37 (16-71) and 34.6±11.28 (16-77), respectively. Patients with epilepsy had depression more often than controls, a result that was statistically significant (p<0.0001). We found no statistically significant difference between sleep parameters of patients and controls with normal BDI scores (p>0.05). Patients with depression had worse results on the Berlin Questionnaire and PSQI total score, with statistical significance (p=0.002). Nocturnal seizures, seizure type, and drug treatment had no effect on sleep (p>0.05). Conclusion: We concluded that depression rather than epilepsy negatively affects sleep, suggesting that all patients should be asked about their mood and sleep complaints.
Diagnostic characteristics of Xpert MTB/RIF assay for the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis and rifampicin resistance in Southern Brazil
Authors: de Almeida Sergio Monteiro , Kussen Gislene Maria Botão , Cogo Laura , Carvalho José Henrique , Nogueira Keite
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT Background: The timely diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is challenging. Molecular diagnostic tools are necessary for TBM, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Objectives: We aimed to calculate the diagnostics characteristics of Xpert MTB/RIF for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and the frequency of rifampicin (RIF)-resistance in the CSF samples. Methods: A total of 313 consecutive CSF samples were studied and categorized into TBM definite, probable, possible, or not TBM cases based on the clinical, laboratory, and imaging data. Results: For the definite TBM cases (n=7), the sensitivity, specificity, efficiency, and positive likelihood ratio were 100, 97, 97, and 38%, respectively. However, for the TBM definite associated with the probable cases (n=24), the sensitivity decreased to 46%. All CSF samples that were Xpert MTB/RIF-positive were RIF susceptible. Conclusion: Xpert MTB/RIF showed high discriminating value among the microbiology-proven TBM cases, although the values for the probable and possible TBM cases were reduced. Xpert MTB/RIF contributes significantly to the diagnosis of TBM, mainly when coupled with the conventional microbiological tests and clinical algorithms.
Uric acid as a marker of severity of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome in older patients
Authors: SÖKÜCÜ Sinem Nedime , ÖZDEMİR Cengiz , AYDIN Şenay , ÖNÜR Seda Tural , KAHYA Özlem
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT Objective: Uric acid has been shown to be related to the severity of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) in adults. We assessed the role of uric acid in OSAS in a cohort of older patients. Methods: A total of 164 patients aged >65 years, admitted to our sleep laboratory between January 1st, 2016 and July 1st, 2018 with a complaint of snoring, underwent overnight polysomnography and were retrospectively evaluated. Results: A total of 126 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria (mean age 69.16±3.68 years, 56% men) were included. The control group was comprised of 14 patients, while the OSAS group consisted of 112 patients (31 mild, 44 moderate and 37 severe cases). No differences were observed in age, sex, hip circumference, waist/hip ratio or comorbidities between the groups. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale score, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference were significantly higher in OSAS patients than in controls (p=0.001, p=0.02, and p=0.36, respectively). Uric acid was not correlated with any of the sleep parameters, and no significant differences were detected between the groups. Hyperuricemic patients were similar in terms of sleep parameters and comorbidities in comparison with the other patients. Conclusions: No relationship was observed between uric acid level and OSAS severity, as defined by the apnoea-hypopnea index. Further studies are needed to determine the value of uric acid as a marker of OSAS, after controlling for cardiovascular comorbidities, in older patients with this syndrome.
The use of e-ASPECTS in acute stroke care: validation of method performance compared to the performance of specialists
Authors: FERRETI Lucas Andrade , LEITAO Cleverson Alex , TEIXEIRA Bernardo Corrêa de Almeida , LOPES NETO Francisco Diego Negrao , ZÉTOLA Viviane Flumignan , LANGE Marcos Christiano
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT Background: The rapid evaluation of non-contrast-enhanced computed tomography (NCCT) brain scans in patients with anterior stroke symptoms saves time and favors optimal and prompt treatment. e-ASPECTS is a tool that automatically calculates the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) values, leading to a more accurate and timely image evaluation. Objective: To determine the ability of e-ASPECTS in differentiating images with and without injury. Methods: One-hundred sixteen patients admitted to a stroke unit in a Brazilian tertiary hospital underwent a CT scan at admission and at least one control brain imaging (NCCT or magnetic resonance imaging - MRI) 24 hours after admission. ASPECTS evaluation was performed by three neuroradiologists, three neurologists, and three neurology residents, all blinded to the symptoms and the injury side. The scores were compared to the ground truth, and an ASPECTS score was provided by two independent non blinded evaluators. Sensitivity and specificity were analyzed, and receiver operating characteristic curves, Bland-Altman plots with mean error score, and Matthews correlation coefficients (MCCs) were obtained for ASPECTS scores, assuming values equal to 10 for images without injury and values other than 10 for images with ischemic injury. Results: e-ASPECTS demonstrated similar performance to that of neuroradiologists and neurologists, with an area under the curve of 0.78 and an MCC value of 0.48 in the dichotomous analysis. The sensitivity and specificity of e-ASPECTS were 75% and 73%, respectively. Conclusion: e-ASPECTS is a validated and reliable tool for determining early signs of ischemia in NCCT.
Heart rate variability as an autonomic biomarker in ischemic stroke
Authors: Buitrago-Ricaurte Natalia , Cintra Fátima , Silva Gisele Sampaio
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and disability worldwide. Autonomic dysfunction after ischemic stroke is frequently associated with cardiac complications and high mortality. The brain-heart axis is a good model for understanding autonomic interaction between the autonomic central network and the cardiovascular system. Heart rate variability (HRV) analysis is a non-invasive approach for understanding cardiac autonomic regulation. In stroke patients, HRV parameters are altered in the acute and chronic stages of the disease, having a prognostic value. In this literature review we summarize the main concepts about the autonomic nervous system and HRV as autonomic biomarkers in ischemic stroke.
Differentiation of relapsing-remitting and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis: a magnetic resonance spectroscopy study based on machine learning
Authors: EKŞİ Ziya , ÇAKIROĞLU Murat , ÖZ Cemil , ARALAŞMAK Ayse , KARADELİ Hasan Hüseyin , ÖZCAN Muhammed Emin
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT Introduction: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most important tool for diagnosis and follow-up in multiple sclerosis (MS). The discrimination of relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) from secondary progressive MS (SPMS) is clinically difficult, and developing the proposal presented in this study would contribute to the process. Objective: This study aimed to ensure the automatic classification of healthy controls, RRMS, and SPMS by using MR spectroscopy and machine learning methods. Methods: MR spectroscopy (MRS) was performed on a total of 91 participants, distributed into healthy controls (n=30), RRMS (n=36), and SPMS (n=25). Firstly, MRS metabolites were identified using signal processing techniques. Secondly, feature extraction was performed based on MRS Spectra. N-acetylaspartate (NAA) was the most significant metabolite in differentiating MS types. Lastly, binary classifications (healthy controls-RRMS and RRMS-SPMS) were carried out according to features obtained by the Support Vector Machine algorithm. Results: RRMS cases were differentiated from healthy controls with 85% accuracy, 90.91% sensitivity, and 77.78% specificity. RRMS and SPMS were classified with 83.33% accuracy, 81.81% sensitivity, and 85.71% specificity. Conclusions: A combined analysis of MRS and computer-aided diagnosis may be useful as a complementary imaging technique to determine MS types.
Jules Bernard Luys: from a description of the subthalamic nucleus to hypnotism
Authors: MEIRA Alex Tiburtino , PRODÓSSIMO Anieli Fagiani , FROEHNER Gabriel Sampaio , FRANKLIN Gustavo Leite , DE MENESES Murilo Sousa , MUNHOZ Renato Puppi , TEIVE Hélio Afonso Ghizoni
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT The authors review the role of Jules Bernard Luys in the discovery of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) over 150 years ago. The relationships between the STN and movement disorders, particularly hemiballismus and Parkinson’s disease, are well known. The academic life of Jules Bernard Luys can be divided into two periods: a brilliant start as a neuroanatomist, culminating in the discovery of the STN, followed by a second period marked by a shift in his academic activity and an increased interest in topics such as hysteria, hypnotism and, eventually, esotericism.
Derrida: tradução, testemunho e “otobiografia”
Authors: Seligmann-Silva Márcio
Published: December 2020

Resumo O trabalho faz um percurso por passagens das obras de Santo Agostinho, Nietzsche e Walter Benjamin a partir de certos temas propostos por Jacques Derrida, com destaque para a questão da tradução e da escrita como inscrição de si. O problema (o Aufgabe benjaminiano, ou seja, tarefa necessária e impossível) é como traduzir o intraduzível, a saber, a vida, a necessidade e impossibilidade dessa tradução, narrada a partir da filosofia desses quatro autores.
Percursos de uma revista brasileira no mundo dos estudos neolatinos
Authors: González Elena Palmero , Labriola Rodrigo
Published: December 2020

Resumo Fundada em 1999 pelo Programa de Pós-Graduação em Letras Neolatinas da UFRJ, Alea funcionou ao longo de mais de vinte anos como uma revista de referência incontornável da ciência brasileira e latino-americana na área de Letras, estabelecendo um sólido nexo de pesquisa acadêmica com instituições e pesquisadores do Brasil e do mundo no âmbito dos estudos neolatinos, assim como de áreas afins como a literatura comparada, os estudos culturais, os estudos de tradução, a teoria da literatura e a estética. Assim, o artigo estuda o papel da revista no desenvolvimento e atualização do conhecimento sobre as literaturas hispânicas e as de língua francesa e italiana produzido no Brasil, com destaque para as contribuições de artigos, traduções, documentos de arquivos e resenhas dos últimos cinco anos, através da sistemática colaboração com universidades e pesquisadores do exterior. Organizado segundo uma divisão historicizada em três grandes temas (internacionalização da pesquisa brasileira; ética e qualidade editorial; e perspectiva de inserção no projeto Ciência Aberta), serão propostos diversos percursos de leitura que, dando conta da trajetória das publicações de Alea, compõem um panorama atualizado das questões e objetos de pesquisa e discussão na área dos estudos neolatinos no Brasil e no mundo.
Perrone-Moisés e a escritura: fidelidades e neologismos
Authors: Ferraz Paulo Procopio
Published: December 2020

Resumo: As relações entre Leyla Perrone-Moisés e Roland Barthes passam por uma questão que reaparece constantemente nos escritos da autora: a fidelidade. O tema da fidelidade atinge, ao mesmo tempo, a crítica literária e a tradução, duas atividades praticadas por Perrone-Moisés. Ele está ligado a dois temas importantes nos textos barthesianos: a escritura e o neologismo. A escritura, além de ser, ela mesma, resultado de um processo de neologismo, é, por definição, produtora de novos sentidos. Para traduzir o termo francês, écriture, Perrone-Moisés propõe uma distinção entre “escritura” (o texto literário) e “escrita” (a escrita instrumental, próxima do texto intelectual). Essa distinção opera através de um tipo de neologismo particular, batizado de “paleologismo”, curiosa figura que se situa na fronteira entre fidelidade e infidelidade.
Hair as a tool for identification of predators and prey: a study based on scats of jaguars (Panthera onca) and pumas (Puma concolor)
Authors: Souza Fernanda C. , Azevedo Fernando C.C.
Published: December 2020

Abstract: Microscopic hair identification is a non-invasive, simple, and economical method applied in scientific studies to identify mammal species. In ecology, this method is used mainly in mastofaunistic inventories and dietary studies. In the last decade, the number of dietary studies using the microscopic identification of hairs has grown substantially, but the application of this technique as a tool for the identification of both predators and prey species is still scant. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify predator and prey hairs in scat samples from the two largest species of carnivores in the Neotropical region, the jaguar (Panthera onca Linnaeus, 1758) and the puma (Puma concolor Linnaeus, 1771). We examined a total of 100 scat samples being 50 from the Pantanal of Mato Grosso do Sul and 50 from the Atlantic Forest of Paraná. We used different identification categories that included the hair microscopic and macroscopic identification, as well as the use of hooves and nails present in the scats associated with tracks and kills found in the field. We identified 57 prey items in the Pantanal samples and 61 in the Atlantic Forest samples. Predator´s hairs were identified in 34% of Pantanal samples and in 46% of Atlantic Forest samples. The combination of hair microscopic and macroscopic characteristics was efficient in the identification of different taxonomic levels, with most identifications reaching the level of the species. However, the methodological protocol for microscopic hair identification was not fully effective in obtaining all the microstructural patterns of the studied mammals. Adjustments in the technique are necessary to differentiate microstructural characteristics of species belonging to the same family. We recommend macroscopic identification of scat content items (hairs, hooves or nails) of both prey and predators to be used to complete the microscopic hair identification technique in dietary ecological studies.
Horses fed meal contaminated with mycotoxins performing short-term exercises
Authors: Braga Auro César , Almeida Fernando Q. , Silva Vinicius P. , Almeida Maria I.V. , Keller Kelly M. , Diegues Vinícius A. , Thomes Freddy R. , Rosa Carlos A.R.
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT: This research was carried out to evaluate the effect of mycotoxins on the performance of horses through physiological parameters, and hematology and serum biochemistry analyses. The essay lasted 40 days, with 12 days for adaptation and 28 days of experimentation. In the experimental stage, the horses were distributed in a completely randomized design, with three treatments with four animals each. The treatments used were 0 (control), 50 ppb and 100 ppb of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) added to a concentrate in a basal diet. The basal diet contained mycotoxins from feedstuffs naturally contaminated. The exercise test was performed over the 21th day of the experimental stage. The exercise consisted in an interval training test with a warm-up of 17 mins at a trot followed by three gallops of 450m/min. The heart rate was monitored between the gallops. Before the exercise test and immediately after the third gallop, the physiological and blood parameters were evaluated, and continued up to 48 hours after the exercise. The results of the physiological, hematological and biochemical parameters were submitted to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and compared by the Tukey test at 5% of significance. The presence of AFB1 in the diet influenced the alkaline phosphatase activity, which presented higher values in horses fed diet with inclusion of 100 ppb AFB1, suggesting a hepatotoxic activity associated with the others mycotoxins naturally present in the feedstuffs.
Periodontal disease and its complications in cats from a shelter in the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Maciel Roberto M. , Mazaro Renata D. , Silva João P.F. , Lorenzetti Douglas M. , Herbichi Alana , Paz Milena C. , Danesi Cristiane C. , Fighera Rafael A.
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT: Periodontal disease is the most common infectious disease that occurs in feline patients. Although it occurs in both sexes, different age groups, and any breeds, the prevalence and severity seem much higher in cats living in animal shelters. This paper aimed to describe the clinical, radiological, cytopathological, and virological aspects of periodontal disease and its complications in cats, based on these aspects and, consequently, on the importance it brings to cat feline medicine in shelter cats. For this, nine cats with periodontal disease from a single animal shelter were evaluated. These cats demonstrated a disease characterized by halitosis, excessive salivation, and oral discomfort. Lymphadenomegaly of the mandibular and retropharyngeal lymph nodes was observed in 44.4% of the cases. Oral lesions consisted of varying degrees of gingival hyperemia, complete loss of free gingival margins, and consequently gingival retraction, dental calculus deposition, dental mobility, complete exposure of the furcation of premolars and molars, and dental roots of canines and incisors, loss of bone radiopacity due to alveolar bone resorption and tooth loss. Complications included chronic ulcerative paradental stomatitis (22.2%), faucitis (22.2%), and chronic gingivostomatitis (11.1%). None of the cats affected by periodontal disease was positive for FIV or FeLV. In 33.3% of the cases, cats were carriers of feline calicivirus, but not feline herpesvirus.