bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluación de variables meteorológicas modeladas para determinar el clima de ciudades costeras argentinas
Authors: Ferrelli Federico , Bustos María Luján , Perillo Gerardo Miguel Eduardo , Piccolo María Cintia
Published: May 2021

El conocimiento del clima de las ciudades costeras es importante para el ordenamiento del espacio urbano. Para su estudio, se necesitan series superiores a 30 años que suelen ser escasas o inconsistentes. En este contexto, los modelos numéricos favorecen la generación de datos meteorológicos. Por ello, el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la precisión y ajuste entre datos de temperatura del aire, humedad relativa y precipitación obtenidos con el Reanalysis NCEP/NCAR y observaciones in situ para ocho ciudades costeras marinas y fluviales de Argentina localizadas en distintas regiones climáticas. Para ello, se compararon series meteorológicas del período 1960-2019 y las provenientes del Reanalysis. Ambas se evaluaron considerando distintas escalas espacio-temporales, utilizando diferentes métodos estadísticos. Los mismos favorecieron el conocimiento del ajuste entre las series en periodos normales, pero también se analizaron los valores extremos de las series a partir de una regresión por cuantiles. La temperatura del aire se ajustó mejor en las escalas climática (60 años), mensual y modelada. La humedad relativa tuvo más correlación en la escala estacional, en invierno y otoño, excepto para las ciudades de clima cálido y húmedo. Finalmente, en las precipitaciones el ajuste fue mejor en todas las escalas temporales para los climas templados y áridos. Los resultados generados representan una base de datos esencial para la toma de decisiones orientada a mejorar la calidad de vida de la población y el ambiente costero.
Autodeterminación en el ámbito educativo en adolescentes con trastorno del espectro autista
Authors: Sánchez Casado Soraya , Martín-Pastor Elena , Calvo Álvarez Isabel
Published: May 2021

La autodeterminación constituye una de las dimensiones clave en la definición de la calidad de vida de las personas. Este trabajo se centra en analizar dicha dimensión en adolescentes con Trastorno del Espectro Autista (TEA) en el contexto escolar, como uno de los espacios de mayor relevancia y desarrollo personal de esta etapa vital. Concretamente se presenta una revisión sistemática con la finalidad de conocer el estado de autodeterminación que presentan los adolescentes con autismo en el ámbito educativo, variables que más influyen en su consecución e intervenciones desarrolladas para un mayor logro de conducta autodeterminada. De una búsqueda inicial de 414 trabajos, únicamente siete cumplieron los criterios definidos. Los principales resultados obtenidos se concretan en niveles bajos de autodeterminación para este colectivo, donde variables como el nivel de discapacidad, el género, la edad, etc., se convierten en las principales barreras. A ello se suma la escasez de programas de mejora de la conducta autodeterminada. Lo anterior desvela la necesidad de que la autodeterminación adquiera mayor protagonismo en el diseño de los programas educativos.
El trastorno del espectro autista en la Unión Europea (ASDEU)
Authors: Posada de la Paz Manuel , Canal-Bedia Ricardo
Published: May 2021

La mejora de los servicios de apoyo para las personas con trastorno del espectro autista (TEA) y a sus familias en Europa requiere conocer su realidad epidemiológica, así como identificar las experiencias y procedimientos para la detección, diagnóstico, tratamiento y apoyo más eficaces y mejor valorados por los receptores de estos servicios. El proyecto “El Trastorno del Espectro Autista en la Unión Europea” (ASDEU) ha impulsado entre 2014 y 2018 un conjunto de estrategias de investigación que han permitido aplicar un modelo de salud pública sobre los TEA centrado en los métodos de estimación de la prevalencia, los programas de detección precoz y la mejora del diagnóstico y la intervención temprana. En este artículo se presenta un resumen de los resultados obtenidos, así como de las conclusiones principales. Se destaca la necesidad de contar con un sistema fiable de medición de la prevalencia de los TEA en la Unión Europea, siendo la versión metodológica más eficiente la basada en registros de TEA de base poblacional; así mismo se propone fortalecer las estrategias de detección para hacerla más sistemática a nivel poblacional; mejorar los procesos de diagnóstico para que sean más rápidos, incluyan información sobre las necesidades de apoyo de la persona e incorporen a las familias; y potenciar la intervención temprana con mayor participación de las familias y vinculación al entorno habitual del menor.
Suppression effect of thyme and carvacrol nano-emulsions on Aspergillus fumigatus isolated from patients in the intensive care unit of Assiut University Hospital, Egypt
Authors: Hassanien Alshimaa A. , Elsherif Walaa M. , Hamed Rasha , Hussein Asmaa A. A.
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: Aspergillus fumigatus is a zoonotic fungus that causes several diseases in humans ranging from allergic reaction to fatal disseminated invasive infection, especially in immunocompromised patients. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of invasive A. fumigatus in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of Assiut University Hospital, highlight the factors associated with their infection, and determine the antifungal effect of thyme nano-emulsion (TNE) and carvacrol nano-emulsion (CNE) on isolated A. fumigatus strains.

Materials and Methods: Mycological culture method and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used in the identification of A. fumigatus in 630 blood samples collected from 210 patients. TNE and CNE at five concentrations (1%, 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%) and average sizes of 90.3 and 75.6 nm, respectively, were characterized by transmission electron microscopy. Their effect on A. fumigatus isolate growth was evaluated by the well-diffusion method and SEM, which was used for the detection of the degenerative effect of A. fumigatus ultrastructure.

Results: A. fumigatus was detected in 54 of 210 (25.7%) patients in the ICU. Advanced age and chronic diseases were considered important risk factors for invasive aspergillosis, especially in patients with more than 1 clinical disease. TNE and CNE showed an inhibitory effect on A. fumigatus isolates, which significantly increased with high concentrations. The respective values for TNE at concentrations of 6% and 8% were 6±0.41 mm and 15±0.67 mm. CNE completely inhibited A. fumigatus growth at concentrations of 4%, 6%, and 8%, while mean inhibition zones of 22±0.68 mm and 30±0.32 mm appeared at concentrations of 1% and 2%. SEM demonstrated degenerative changes in A. fumigatus structure.

Conclusion: TNE and CNE can be used in bioactive treatments against A. fumigatus, and additional studies are required to determine the safe and effective doses and best method for application in human and veterinary medicine.
Genetic variation in the first intron and exon of the myostatin gene in several Indonesian cattle populations
Authors: Prihandini Peni Wahyu , Primasari Almira , Aryogi Aryogi , Efendy Jauhari , Luthfi Muchamad , Pamungkas Dicky , Hariyono Dwi Nur Happy
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: Myostatin (MSTN), a member of the transforming growth factor-β family, is a negative regulator of muscle mass. This study aimed to detect the genetic variation of the 1160 bp fragment of exon 1 and part of intron 1 of the MSTN gene in several cattle populations raised in Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: Polymerase chain reaction products of the MSTN gene amplified from 92 animals representing 10 cattle populations (Peranakan Ongole [PO], Belgian Blue x PO cross, Rambon, PO x Bali cross, Jabres, Galekan, Sragen, Donggala, Madura, and Bali) were sequenced, compared, and aligned with bovine MSTN of Bos taurus (GenBank Acc. No. AF320998.1) and Bos indicus (GenBank Acc. No. AY794986.1).

Results: Four nucleotide substitutions (nt 1045 and 1066 in intron 1; nt 262 and 418 in exon 1) and two indels (nt 807 and 869 in intron 1) were synonymous mutations. Among these substitutions, only the nt 262G>C and nt 418A>G loci were polymorphic in all populations, except Bali cattle. The frequencies of the nt 262C (0.82) and nt 418A (0.65) alleles were highest. For the nt 262G>C locus, the CC genotype had the highest frequency (0.66) followed by GC (0.30) and CC (0.03). For the nt 418A>G locus, the AG genotype had the highest frequency (0.52) followed by AA (0.39) and GG (0.09).

Conclusion: The results, showing genetic variations in exon 1 and intron 1 of the MSTN gene, might be helpful for future association studies.
Sarcomatoid Carcinoma Arising in a Gastric Duplication Cyst
Authors: Ahmed Mohamed A. H. , Liyanaarachchi Kanchana Sanjeewani , Preston Shaun R. , Hewish Madeleine , Bagwan Izhar N.
Published: May 2021

Malignancy arising within a gastric duplication cyst (GDC) is extremely rare; only 15 cases have been reported in the literature. We present a 70-year-old woman who was referred with a history of vague postprandial abdominal discomfort. Subsequent imaging identified a gastric cystic mass. A laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy of a 90 × 60 × 60-mm cystic mass was performed. Histopathological examination showed the presence of a sarcomatoid carcinoma arising within a GDC. The patient, unfortunately, died 5 months after surgery with metastatic disease. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of sarcomatoid carcinoma arising within a GDC.
Recurrent Candida-Associated Esophageal Strictures in an Immunocompetent Patient
Authors: Narang Natasha , Pinillos Hugo , Amog-Jones Glenda , Gomez Adam , Alishahi Yasmin
Published: May 2021

Esophageal stricture due to Candida esophagitis is a rare complication reported among immunocompromised patients in only limited case reports. We describe a unique case of a 36-year-old man with chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis without underlying immunocompromise who experienced over 10 years of recurrent dysphagia due to esophageal strictures from candidiasis. His symptoms were initially believed to be due to eosinophilic esophagitis; however, numerous biopsies from the esophagus were negative for eosinophils. Several upper endoscopies, however, did reveal fungal elements consistent with Candida spp. He experienced recurring episodes of dysphagia and persistent esophageal stricture, requiring multiple antifungal courses and endoscopic balloon dilatations.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis in a Pediatric Patient With Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: Lehan Emily , Wang Tao , Soboleski Don , Acker Amy , Kehar Mohit
Published: May 2021

We describe a case of a 15-year-old adolescent boy with neurofibromatosis type 1 who presented with inflammatory bowel disease and primary sclerosing cholangitis. The literature available on the association of neurofibromatosis type 1 with inflammatory bowel disease is limited to 7 clinical case reports, and none had comorbid primary sclerosing cholangitis. We present a review of the published literature on this rare association and add the findings of our patient.
Macroeconomic Immigration Determinants: an Analysis of ‘Pull’ Factors of International Migration to South Africa
Authors:   University of the Western Cape, Dinbabo Mulugeta , Nyasulu Themba
Published: May 2021

This research empirically examines the macroeconomic determinants of ‘pull’ factors of international migration in South Africa. Using the neoclassical economic model of international migration, an Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression was run on time-series data from the World Bank data base for the period 1990-2012. Relevant data from the South African Department of Home Affairs’ Annual Reports were also used. GDP per capita, inflation rate, real interest rate, employment rate and public health expenditure were found to be the key determinants which entice migrants away from their countries and direct them to “better off” destinations. The country’s public education system, on the other hand, is not a significant attraction for foreign migrants. The study concludes that the South African government urgently needs to implement not only skilled worker-attractive immigration policies but also appropriate fiscal and monetary restructuring policies aimed at growing the economy and creating employment opportunities.
The Migration-Development Nexus in Somaliland: Critical Voices from the Somali Diaspora
Authors: Fagioli-Ndlovu Monica
Published: May 2021

International development agencies have recently started to mobilise the Somali diaspora for state-building programmes. Somali diaspora experts and government officials are critical of state-building programmes run by UN agencies. By relaying critical voices from Somali diaspora experts involved in state-building programmes in Somaliland, this article looks at the emergence of the idea of migration for development. After reviewing recent critical works by transnational migration scholars, this article also draws on the work of African diaspora scholars. The latter have critiqued the mobilisation of the African diaspora as a way to serve only the Millenium Development’s Goals, yet failing to empower the African state (Clark, 2010; Zeleza, 2010). The article discusses how Somali diaspora experts are mobilised by international organisations in development and state-building programmes in Somaliland, and yet excluded from decision-making processes involved in those programmes. Despite the exclusion of Somali government officials and diaspora experts from the design of programmes run by UN agencies, the Somali diaspora and some local officials have been particularly active in creating the economic and political foundations that have enabled a re-emergence of the state in Somaliland and Somalia.
Clima adverso y respuestas institucionales en Puerto Rico (1823-1837)
Authors: Luque Azcona Emilio José
Published: May 2021

Durante el gobierno de Miguel de la Torre en Puerto Rico (1823-1837) se produjeron fenómenos de clima adverso, entre ellos uno de los huracanes más virulentos hasta entonces conocido, el de Santa Ana de 1825. Este artículo analiza los efectos que estos fenómenos tuvieron sobre la isla y las respuestas institucionales que se articularon para paliar sus consecuencias. Con ello pretendemos aportar una nueva mirada y complementaria a la existente sobre la gestión llevada a cabo por el capitán y gobernador general Miguel de la Torre durante su mandato, de manera conjunta con otras instituciones, como el intendente o el Cabildo de San Juan. También, analizar la posible influencia de las ideas de la Ilustración en las medidas adoptadas, destacando los aspectos más novedosos de su gestión, el uso político de estas actuaciones y las reacciones que despertaron en algunos de los sectores de la población más afectados.
Santa Marta en el Siglo XVIII. Edgar Rey Sinning (Compilador), Grupo editorial CAJAMAG, Santa Marta, 2017. 242 pp. ISBN 978-958-56322-0-2
Authors: Guerra Adriano Israel
Published: May 2021

La estación del miedo o la desolación dispersa, así tituló su libro el historiador Hermes Tovar Pinzón sobre el siglo XVI en el Caribe colombiano. De igual forma, Adolfo Meisel Roca llamó a una de sus investigaciones Puertos vibrantes y sector rural vacío: El Caribe neogranadino a finales del periodo colonial. Los títulos anteriores y sus planteamientos concretan la tesis sobre la idea de dispersión y desolación poblacional que ha atravesado la historia del Caribe. Lo anterior supone quizás una realidad histórica, pero también un discurso que se ha construido a lo largo del tiempo. Una conciencia del saber histórico y una identidad de desarrollo que se traza en una delgada línea entre riqueza y pobreza, entre abundancia y escasez.
Construcción de identidad como aprendices de inglés en prácticas de escritura
Authors: Camusso Paula Alejandra , Lorenzatti María del Carmen
Published: May 2021

En el presente trabajo se presentan avances de un proyecto de tesis doctoral que estudia la construcción de la identidad de jóvenes y adultos como aprendices de inglés. Desde un enfoque socioantropológico de corte etnográfico, nos proponemos explorar las manifestaciones de identidad en la escritura de un grupo de mujeres que estudian en los Centros de Tutorías, en la ciudad de Villa María (Córdoba, Argentina) para finalizar sus estudios secundarios. En este artículo analizamos avances del trabajo de campo en relación con la intersección de distintos constructos teóricos: identidad en una lengua extranjera, identidades imaginadas, inversión e identidad letrada. Finalmente, identificamos algunas líneas analíticas que permiten argumentar que las prácticas de escritura constituyen un espacio social en el que se negocia y construye la identidad de los estudiantes de inglés a partir de su participación en actividades junto con otros actores, lo cual le imprime a la identidad su carácter social e individual.
Pediatric reference interval verification for common biochemical assays on the Abbott Alinity system
Authors: Bohn Mary Kathryn , Wilson Siobhan , Hall Alexandra , Massamiri Youssef , Randell Ed , Adeli Khosrow
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The quality of clinical laboratory service depends on quality laboratory operations and accurate test result interpretation based on reference intervals (RIs). As new analytical systems continue to be developed and improved, previously established RIs must be verified. The Canadian Laboratory Initiative on Pediatric Reference Intervals (CALIPER) has established comprehensive RIs for many biomarkers on several analytical systems. Here, published CALIPER RIs for 28 chemistry assays on the Abbott ARCHITECT were assessed for verification on the newer Alinity system.

Methods

An analytical validation was first completed to assess assay performance. CALIPER serum samples (100) were analyzed for 28 chemistry assays on the Alinity system. The percentage of results falling within published pediatric ARCHITECT reference and confidence limits was determined for each analyte. Based on Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines, if ≥90% of test results fell within confidence limits of ARCHITECT assay RIs, they were considered verified.

Results

Of the 28 assays assessed, 26 met the criteria for verification. Reference values for calcium and magnesium did not meet the criteria for verification with 87% and 35% falling within previously established ARCHITECT confidence limits, respectively. However, both assays could be verified using pediatric RIs provided in the Abbott Alinity package insert.

Conclusions

In this study, CALIPER ARCHITECT RIs were verified on the Alinity system for several chemistry assays. These data demonstrate excellent concordance for most assays between the Abbott ARCHITECT and Alinity systems and will assist in the implementation of the Alinity system in pediatric healthcare institutions.
Hepatic stellate cells: current state and open questions
Authors: Kordes Claus , Bock Hans H. , Reichert Doreen , May Petra , Häussinger Dieter
Published: May 2021

This review article summarizes 20 years of our research on hepatic stellate cells within the framework of two collaborative research centers CRC575 and CRC974 at the Heinrich Heine University. Over this period, stellate cells were identified for the first time as mesenchymal stem cells of the liver, and important functions of these cells in the context of liver regeneration were discovered. Furthermore, it was determined that the space of Disse – bounded by the sinusoidal endothelium and hepatocytes – functions as a stem cell niche for stellate cells. Essential elements of this niche that control the maintenance of hepatic stellate cells have been identified alongside their impairment with age. This article aims to highlight previous studies on stellate cells and critically examine and identify open questions and future research directions.
Evaluation of reproductive hormones in Egyptian workers occupationally exposed to di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP): a cross-sectional study
Authors: Metwally Fateheya M. , Elfiky Asmaa M. , Sharaf Neven E. , Rashad Hend
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is ubiquitous, known as an endocrine disruptor. DEHP is a widespread prevalence in general and occupational populations which raised great public concerns due to its potentially harmful health effects on the male reproductive system. We aimed to assess occupational levels of DEHP on gonadotropin and gonadal hormones including luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), total testosterone (TT), and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and evaluate its potential effects on Asp327Asn polymorphisms SHBG gene.

Methods

We measured the levels of DEHP of 90 male workers in one of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) industry plant using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Sex hormones were examined and Asp327Asn polymorphisms SHBG gene were detected by PCR-RFLP in all participants.

Results

The workers were divided into low- and high- DEHP exposed groups based on the geometric mean (GM) levels (183.86 U/L) in serum. TT and TT: LH ratio were negatively correlated to DEHP levels (r=−0.213, p=0.038), (r=−0.225, p=0.027), respectively. The linear regression analysis revealed that a 10-fold increase of serum DEHP was found to be associated with 2.07 fold decreased in TT and a 2.26 fold decreased in TT/LH ratio.

Conclusions

Serum testosterone is negatively associated with DEHP exposure in occupational workers.
A critical review of optical switches
Authors: Singh Ompal , Paulus Rajeev
Published: May 2021

Optical packet switching has gained lot of popularity in last a few years due to its advantages like, large speed, more bandwidth and very less crosstalk. But due to immature optical fabrication and designing technology OPS is still beyond reality. However, many of the optical components are commercialized and some of them are still in laboratory. Thus, for optical switches which are considered as future generation routers, many switch architectures are proposed by using different sets of optical components. This paper presents a detailed review of notable switch designs in past 20 years, and also presents a comprehensive literature survey of the notable papers related to optical packet switch designs.
The Multiple Regulator Model: A Case of Too Many Cooks?
Authors: Perai Nur Azam Anuarul
Published: May 2021

Regulation protects the third sector from mismanagement, provides data for policy development, and increases public trust and confidence in its organisations. Different agencies regulate Malaysian third sector organisations (TSO), based on their legal forms and varying activities or functions. Yet, can different regulations governing organisations with similar objectives effectively address issues affecting the sector as a whole? This study provides an overview of the Malaysian third sector regulatory landscape and examines the operational challenges caused by the multiple regulator environment. Third sector actors and regulators were interviewed to understand how they navigate legal and regulatory requirements. Findings show that regulation is hampered by discrepancies surrounding the interpretation and application of laws. This Malaysian study shows that regulatory inconsistencies affect the sector’s operational efficiency and diminish trust between the TSOs and regulators. Based on these findings, uniformity in regulation is crucial to build trust in the sector, as well as between actors and regulators.
Der Handschlag von Therwil – Einsichten in die Aushandlungsdynamiken von Religion zwischen lokaler Interaktion, nationaler Politisierung und globaler Skandalisierung: Eine Einleitung
Authors: Hetmanczyk Philipp , Walthert Rafael
Published: May 2021

Im November 2015 ereignete sich an einer Schweizer Sekundarschule ein Vorfall, der in der Folge als sogenannter „Handschlag von Therwil“ Schlagzeilen machte. Mit diesem Topos ist jedoch nicht nur die Entscheidung zweier Schüler gemeint, ihrer Lehrerin unter Verweis auf religiöse Motive den Handschlag zu verweigern, sondern ebenso die medialen, schulischen, politischen und rechtlichen Konsequenzen, die sich an diese Episode anschlossen. Die folgende Einleitung zu dieser Thematik bietet, neben einer Schilderung des Vorfalls, eine Rahmensetzung, die sich mit dem religionswissenschaftlichen Stellenwert lokaler Aushandlungsprozesse von Religion befasst. Es wird argumentiert, dass lokale Aushandlungen von Religion weder rein binnenreligiös noch in den sozialen und räumlichen Grenzen ihrer Lokalität vollzogen werden. Stattdessen sind sie in eine Vielzahl nicht-religiöser und translokaler Kontexte eingebunden. Daraus ergibt sich eine Reihe von Fragestellungen: Unter welchen Umständen werden lokale Religionsthematiken zum Verhandlungsgegenstand anderer, nicht-religiöser Gesellschaftsbereiche? Wie wirken diese Dynamiken auf lokale Aushandlungsprozesse zurück und welche Themen fungieren dabei als Kristallisationspunkte? Nicht zuletzt stellt sich zudem die Frage nach geeigneten Konzepten und Ansätzen, anhand derer die Aushandlungsprozesse von Religion in nicht religiösen Kontexten adäquat erfasst werden können. Die vorliegende Einleitung stellt verschiedene Beiträge vor, die sich in ihrer Analyse des Therwiler Handschlags auf unterschiedliche Weise diesen Fragen angenähert haben.
Extended visible light driven photocatalytic hydrogen generation by electron induction from g-C3N4 nanosheets to ZnO through the proper heterojunction
Authors: Zada Amir , Khan Muhammad , Hussain Zahid , Shah Muhammad Ishaq Ali , Ateeq Muhammad , Ullah Mohib , Ali Nauman , Shaheen Shabana , Yasmeen Humaira , Ali Shah Syed Niaz , Dang Alei
Published: May 2021

The alarming energy crises has forced the scientific community to work for sustainable energy modules to meet energy requirements. As for this, ZnO/g-C3N4 nanocomposites with proper heterojunction were fabricated by coupling a proper amount of ZnO with 2D graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) nanosheets and the obtained nanocomposites were applied for photocatalytic hydrogen generation from water under visible light illumination (λ > 420 nm). The morphologies and the hydrogen generation performance of fabricated photocatalysts were characterized in detail. Results showed that the optimized 5ZnO/g-C3N4 nanocomposite produced 70 µmol hydrogen gas in 1 h compare to 8 µmol by pure g-C3N4 under identical illumination conditions in the presence of methanol without the addition of cocatalyst. The much improved photoactivities of the nanocomposites were attributed to the enhanced charge separation through the heterojunction as confirmed from photoluminescence study, capacity of the fabricated samples for •OH radical generation and steady state surface photovoltage spectroscopic (SS-SPS) measurements. We believe that this work would help to fabricate low cost and effective visible light driven photocatalyst for energy production.
Lagerverhalten unter Prognoseunsicherheit mit dynamischen Bestellpolitiken
Authors: Fritzsch Benjamin , Müller Domenic , Nitsche Andreas , Nyhuis Peter
Published: May 2021

Bei der Produktion von Lagergütern stehen produzierende Unternehmen einem unsicheren Kundenbedarf gegenüber. Um Unsicherheiten zu begegnen, ist ein erhöhter Lagerbestand notwendig, um die Kundenbedarfe anforderungsgerecht bedienen zu können. Die entstehenden Kosten sind bei gegebener Prognoseunsicherheit durch das Bestellverhalten beeinflusst. Das Bestellverhalten wird maßgeblich von der Bestellpolitik bestimmt. Daher wurde der Einfluss von Prognoseunsicherheit und der Bestellpolitik auf die entstehenden Lagerkosten mittels Sensitivitätsanalysen untersucht. Prognoseunsicherheiten bedürfen bei der (t, S)-Politik demnach größerer Bestände als unter der (s, q)-Politik.
Anwendungen des maschinellen Lernens in der Produktion aus Auftrags- und Produktsicht
Authors: Denkena Berend , Dittrich Marc-André , Noske Hendrik , Kramer Kathrin , Schmidt Matthias
Published: May 2021

Das maschinelle Lernen als Teilgebiet der Künstlichen Intelligenz kann in der Fertigung dazu beitragen, Prozesse beschleunigt auszulegen, Zykluszeiten und Ausschuss zu reduzieren und Produktionskapazitäten besser auszuschöpfen. Dieser Beitrag gibt einen systematisierten Überblick über Anwendungen des maschinellen Lernens für produkt- und auftragsbezogene Prozesse und unterstützt Praxisanwender dabei, Einsatzfelder gezielt zu identifizieren und Wertschöpfungspotenziale zu erschließen.
Magnetführung in der Optikfertigung
Authors: Denkena Berend , Bergmann Benjamin , Schmidtmann Jan-Philipp
Published: May 2021

Im Exzellenzcluster „PhoenixD“ forschen Wissenschaftler der Leibniz Universität Hannover an Methoden zur produktiven Herstellung von präzisionsoptischen Bauteilen. In einem Teilprojekt wird am Institut für Fertigungstechnik und Werkzeugmaschinen (IFW) ein Linearaktor mit elektromagnetischer Führung entwickelt. Mit dem Aktor können die Bauteile in den Herstellungsprozessen präzise ausgerichtet werden, Prozesskräfte angepasst und alle wichtigen Prozessgrößen in Echtzeit gemessen werden.
Software für eine automatisierte mehrdimensionale Fabriklayoutoptimierung
Authors: Aurich Paul , Stonis Malte , Nyhuis Peter
Published: May 2021

Die Layoutplanung ist eine komplexe Planungsaufgabe im Rahmen einer Fabrikplanung, welche bisher meist manuell ausgeführt werden musste. Zwar wurden in der Vergangenheit viele Optimierungsverfahren für die zugrundeliegende Problemstellung entwickelt, jedoch waren diese nur für einen kleinen meist universitären Expertenkreis anwendbar. Daher wurde in einem Forschungsprojekt eine einfach anwendbare Software zur Layoutplanung entwickelt, um Unternehmen einen Zugang zu diesen Optimierungsverfahren zu bereiten.
ENHANCING GLOBAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE THROUGH REFLECTING ON CONCEPTS OF SECURITY AND CARE IN LIGHT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Bansal Rishi , Godkhindi Parnika
Published: May 2021

As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to spread like wildfire across the world, our society has been brought to a shuddering halt. In a world now characterized by extreme uncertainty and invisible threats to personal safety, people tend to respond instinctively. These responses can be productive or destructive, but in all cases, are reflective of deeply held societal beliefs of security and care that are brought to bear during a pandemic. Literary works offer a unique lens to further interrogate these notions. In particular, Barbara Gowdy’s “Disneyland” demonstrates that individual actors are tied to their communities, and neither party can achieve security while the other remains vulnerable. Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis” forces its readers to realize that caring for each other must address social and familiar needs in addition to physical needs. Finally, Obasan and Beloved provide successful models of community-based care wherein communities come together to build the resilience necessary to face and overcome adversity, together. Each literary work explores themes that complicate the notions of security and care, but ultimately demonstrate the power of unity in building resilience and strength. We would do well to use these lessons to inform our emergency response as the pandemic continues and new challenges arise.
LAND ETHICS IN CONFLICT
Authors: MacLean YaoYao
Published: May 2021

Purpose: This paper explores the underlying forces, specifically the “land lifeworlds” behind land-use laws, at the heart of land-use conflicts between the Ontario government and Indigenous communities. Approach: I examine the research of Anishinaabe and Canadian legal scholars on the “land lifeworlds” or ethics underlying Anishinaabe and Canadian land-use law. This research takes the form of anthropological observation, historical analysis of the formation of property law, and close textual analysis of key legal documents. I then apply this research to observe the role these land lifeworlds play in a particular land-use conflict case study. Results: The land lifeworlds underlying the actors’ land-use laws are fundamentally opposed. The lifeworld underlying Ontario land-use law prioritizes an ownership-exploitative relationship to the land. In contrast, the land lifeworld of Anishinaabe law advocates a reciprocal relationship to the land, where the land is envisioned as a member of the community deserving of the highest respect. Regarding the case study, the opposing nature of these two lifeworlds manifests itself in the non-recognition of an Ontario judge toward the legitimacy of the Anishinaabe stewardship position. Conclusion: These results suggest a possible path toward a more just resolution of land-use conflicts between Indigenous communities and the Ontario government: the provincial government must make a fundamental, not merely surface level, change in its land-use policy. This means changing the land lifeworld underlying land-use law such that a reciprocal relationship with the land as a moral agent worthy of rights can be recognized as legitimate.
THREATS OF THE HIJAB: HOW FRANCE’S COLONIAL FABRICATION OF THE ISLAMIC HEADSCARF AFFECTS ITS MUSLIM WOMEN
Authors: Khan Maryam
Published: May 2021

Discourse in France on the Islamic headscarf is omnipresent, even if its presence in schools is not. There are polarizing views in literature on whether Muslim women can truly integrate into French society if their religiosity and headscarf appears to go against the republic’s principles of equality, liberty, and fraternity. While this inquiry may be prevalent, there has been little interdisciplinary discussion on what invokes such negative reactions from the majority of the French population towards the Islamic headscarf. There has been even less discussion and reports on the impact of this reaction on Muslim women in France. This paper seeks to contribute to those apertures in scholarly literature. Using the French ban of 2004 as a case study, I explore how France’s colonial fabrication of the Islamic headscarf is pervasive and impacts the identity and livelihood of Muslim women in France. The term ‘hijab’ in this paper refers to Islamic headscarf Muslim women wear to meet religious requirements. I start by analyzing France’s colonial history with Algeria and its depiction of the hijab during that period. Then, I illustrate its importance in French understandings of the headscarf by highlighting parallels between arguments used for the ban on headscarves and France’s historical repackaging of the Muslim headdress. Concluding illustrations will reveal the harrowing impact of the hijab ban on the rights, identity, education and socioeconomic class of Muslim women in France.
MADNESS AND THE MAN IN THE MIRROR: MAPPING FREEDOM
Authors: Balaranjan Sarun
Published: May 2021

Contemporary narratives of freedom have been dominated by the static conception that it can be achieved through a dissociation from the oppressor. This essay aims to uncover what modes of freedom have been left underdeveloped by highlighting its depiction in Wolf’s Cassandra and Cervantes’ Don Quixote. By coupling the character arcs of the eponymous protagonists with the personal experiences of the author, a roadmap away from static freedom will begin to emerge. This essay aims to identify a methodological approach towards dynamic freedom by analyzing madness as an exercise of non-conformity, self-perception as an act of affirming identity and heroism as a subject of rejection.
Considerations for the Physical Preparation of Freestyle Snowboarding Athletes
Authors: Dann Rick A. , Kelly Vincent G.
Published: May 2021

The rapid growth in trick progression for competitive snowboarding over the past 20 years has resulted in increased physical demands required from snowboarding athletes. Despite a wealth of knowledge surrounding strength and conditioning principles for other sports, researchers are yet to address the novel strength and conditioning challenges faced by the freestyle nature of competitive snowboarding. This article, therefore, offers practitioners strategies to address the unique considerations surrounding cultural qualities, injury prevention, unstable surface training, skill acquisition, and recovery strategies for the effective implementation of strength and conditioning interventions for snowboarding athletes.
“Pixels May Lose Kelp Canopy”: The Photomosaic as Epistemic Figure for the Satellite Mapping and Modeling of Seaweeds
Authors: Jue Melody
Published: May 2021

This article shows how the photo-mosaic characterizes epistemic practices in contemporary oceanography, particularly through the satellite survey and ecological modeling of marine macroalgae (seaweeds). Drawing on John Murray’s 1912 formulation that oceanographic knowledge relies “upon a patiently put together mosaic representation of the discoveries” and Nancy Cartwright’s description of theory in science as a patchwork, I examine the mosaic as both an organizational form for oceanographic knowledge-making and as an aesthetic that emerges in remote surveillance. Through a comparative analysis of the visual and computational media surrounding sargassum and giant kelp, I analyze how a photo-mosaic epistemics and aesthetics emerges through the squareness of pixels and mapping interfaces, and through the ways that discrete instances of sampling and observation are assembled into provisional pictures of understanding. Moreover, I argue that the visibility of sargassum and giant kelp to a satellite depends on what I call their “photo-availability,” or the physical and metabolic qualities that make them sensible to satellite detection. In this way I consider seaweeds as active agents in the distributed media system of satellite imaging, rather than the passive objects of surveillance and monitoring, where epistemic mosaicking emerges as a strategy for knowledge and control.
The Relationship of Judicial and Prosecutorial Elections to the Availability of Sentencing Data in the United States
Authors: Hotchkiss Niki
Published: May 2021

The availability of statewide sentencing information can increase the transparency of the criminal justice system by allowing courts, practitioners, and the public to see trends and anomalies in sentencing. The existence of such information may create expectations and political pressure that affect the elections of judges and prosecutors. However, research has found that lower independence and higher accountability through elections does not necessarily come to bear as expected due to unique characteristics of judicial and prosecutorial elections. Given the potential impact of widely available sentencing data on the election of prosecutors and judges, this article examines if there is any association between the type of selection for judges and prosecutors and the availability of sentencing data. Further, it explores if there are examples of available sentencing data being used negatively during campaigns in a small sample of states. The evidence presented here suggests that concerns about decreased independence of the judiciary and malicious political use of information are not strong enough to outweigh the benefits of data availability nor have these potential problems come to bear in selected states with available sentencing data.
SHMT2 expression as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for thyroid cancer
Authors: Jin Meihua , Lee Woo Kyung , You Mi-Hyeon , Jang Ahreum , Cheng Sheue-yann , Kim Won Gu , Jeon Min Ji , Lee Yu-Mi
Published: May 2021

Background

Catabolism of serine via serine hydroxymethyltransferase2 (SHMT2) through the mitochondrial one-carbon unit pathway is important in tumorigenesis. Therefore, SHMT2 may play a role in thyroid cancer.

Methods

Thyroid tissue samples and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were used to evaluate SHMT2 expression in thyroid tissues and the association with clinical outcomes.

Results

SHMT2 protein expression was evaluated in thyroid tissues consisting of 52 benign nodules, 129 papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC) and matched normal samples, and 20 anaplastic thyroid carcinomas (ATC). ATCs presented the highest (95.0%) positivity of SMHT2 protein expression. PTCs showed the second highest (73.6%) positivity of SHMT2 expression, which was significantly higher than that of benign nodules (19.2%, P = 0.016) and normal thyroid tissues (0%, P < 0.001). Analysis of TCGA data showed that SHMT2 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression was significantly higher in tumors than in normal tissues (P < 0.001). When we classified thyroid cancer into high and low groups according to SHMT2 mRNA expression levels, the thyroid differentiation score for the high SHMT2 group was significantly lower than that of the low SHMT2 group (P < 0.001). There was also a significant correlation between SHMT2 mRNA expression and the stemness index (r = 0.41, P < 0.001). The high SHMT2 group had more advanced TNM stages and shorter progression-free survival rates than the low SHMT2 group (P < 0.01 and P = 0.007, respectively).

Conclusion

SHMT2 expression is higher in thyroid cancers than normal or benign tissues and is associated with de-differentiation and poor clinical outcomes. Thus, SHMT2 might be useful as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for thyroid cancer.
MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Papillary thyroid microcarcinoma: toward an active surveillance strategy
Authors: Molinaro Eleonora , Campopiano Maria Cristina , Elisei Rossella
Published: May 2021

In the last decades, the incidence of thyroid cancer (TC) has more than doubled, but the disease-specific mortality rate was stable. To date, 30–40% of all TC is represented by papillary microcarcinomas (mPTC), an indolent tumor, that probably remained undiagnosed before routine ultrasound use. In 1993, Miyauchi was the first who hypothesized a conservative approach for low-risk mPTC and introduced the concept of active surveillance (AS) in its clinical management. The progression rate of mPTC during AS was low and delaying surgery did not impact the efficacy of treatment or outcome. Since then, several authors from all over the world have reported their experience of AS in mPTCs. As suggested by current guidelines, AS can be considered as an alternative to immediate surgery to avoid overtreatment in low-risk mPTC and may be the strategy to avoid complications from unnecessary surgery. In the last years, AS inclusion criteria have been extended to both bigger tumors and to younger/healthier patients. The adoption of AS should take into consideration not only tumor characteristics but also patient psychological profiles and medical team expertise. Its safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in long-term outcome studies and in other types of tumors; however, skepticism in patients, families and physicians should be overcome by strong recommendations coming from scientific guidelines. This review analyses the several and different experiences of AS and the potential obstacles in implementing it as a routine approach in mPTC patients.
Hypothyroidism induces oxidative stress and DNA damage in breast
Authors: Peixoto Milena Simões , de Vasconcelos e Souza Andressa , Andrade Iris Soares , de Carvalho el Giusbi Carolina , Coelho Faria Caroline , Hecht Fabio , Miranda-Alves Leandro , Ferreira Andrea Claudia Freitas , Carvalho Denise Pires , Fortunato Rodrigo S
Published: May 2021

Breast cancer and thyroid dysfunctions have been associated for decades. Although many studies suggest a biological correlation, the mechanisms linking these two pathologies have not been elucidated. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can oxidize lipids, proteins, and DNA molecules and may promote tumor initiation. Hence, we aimed at evaluating the mammary redox balance and genomic instability in a model of experimental hypothyroidism. Female Wistar rats were treated with 0.03% methimazole for 7 or 21 days to evaluate ROS generation, antioxidant enzyme activities, and oxidative stress biomarkers, as well as genomic instability. After 7 days, lower catalase, GPX, and DUOX activities were detected in the breast of hypothyroid group compared to the control while the levels of 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) were higher. In addition, hypothyroid group showed an increase in γH2Ax/H2Ax ratio. Twenty-one days hypothyroid group had increased catalase and SOD activities, without significant differences between groups in the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers and DNA damage. TSH-treated MCF10A cells showed a higher extracellular, intracellular, and mitochondrial ROS production. Additionally, greater DNA damage was observed in these cells, demonstrated by a higher comet tail DNA percentage and increased 53BP1 foci. Finally, we found that TSH treatment was not able to alter cell viability. The Genome Cancer Atlas (TGCA) data showed that high TSHR expression is associated with more invasive breast cancer types. In conclusion, we demonstrate that oxidative stress and DNA damage in breast are early events of experimental hypothyroidism. Moreover, high TSH levels induce oxidative stress and genomic instability in mammary cells.
Reduction in lignin peroxidase activity revealed by effects of lignin content in urea crosslinked starch under aerobic biodegradation in soil
Authors: Majeed Zahid , Ajab Zainab , Guan Qingjie , Abbasi Abdul Zahir , Mahmood Qaisar , Mahnashi Mater H. , Alyami Bandar A. A. , Alqarni Ali O. , Alqahtani Yahya S. , Mansor Nurlidia
Published: May 2021

This study characterized the lignin peroxidase (LiP) activity of soil via an enzyme assay to determine the reaction rates and activation energies for 5 wt%, 10 wt%, 15 wt%, and 20 wt% lignin loads in urea crosslinked starch biocomposites. The results revealed that a mixed mode of LiP inhibition occurred after the soil was mixed with these biocomposites with different loads of lignin. Loading of lignin at 5 wt% and 10 wt% lignin resulted in higher values of catalytic activity of LiP: -39.58 and 49.14 µM h-1 g-1 soil, respectively. In comparison, with higher loading of lignin at 15 wt% and 20 wt%, decreases in the catalytic activity of LiP were found and were 28.72 to 37.25 µM h-1 g-1 soil, respectively. The activation energy of LiP increased approximately 1.11- to 1.22-fold when 15 and 20 wt% of lignin was loaded in biocomposites. Research findings established the possibility of unfavorable binding of the LiP to lignin with an increase in the load of lignin, possibly due to the complex structure of intact lignin and presence of inhibitory biodegradation products of lignin accumulates during lignin biodegradation in biocomposites. It was concluded that higher lignin contents (15 wt% and 20 wt%) were effective in reducing the activity of the soil LiP. Hence, higher lignin content possibly protects against losses of lignin, while acting as a filler in the formulation of biocomposites.
A perspective of lignin processing and utilization technologies for composites and plastics with emphasis on technical and market trends
Authors: Kropat Marcel , Liao Mochen , Park Hyeonji , Salem Khandoker S. , Johnson Shelly , Argyropoulos Dimitris S.
Published: May 2021

This effort is focused on work completed publicly and privately within academic research and industrial sectors on the utilization of lignin to produce thermosets, thermoplastics, foams, hydrogels, and rubbers. The size of the plastics market and the current and projected influence of lignin on it were evaluated. Further, an analysis of patent activity was employed to show the direction of and interest for lignin in these markets. The market trends documented in the literature, when coupled with detailed patent research, offer a new approach to evaluate potential markets and future directions. The analysis of the commercial market sizes of bioplastics and segmentation showed low penetration of actual lignin-based bioplastics. This exposed the contradiction between the abundance of technologies for lignin-based materials and their little practical use. In addition, this finding highlighted a severe gap between lignin research and development and the actual market.