bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LONELINESS AND PREDICTIVE MODELS OF MULTIPLE RISK BEHAVIOR OF ADOLESCENTS IN THE CONTEXT OF ECOSYSTEM METATHEORY AND VIRTUAL INTERNET SPACE
Authors: Kahan Ján , Žiaková Eva
Published: November 2021

The metatheoretical ecosystem construct requires integrating the virtual dimension of the internet in the assessment of human living space.
Objective: The main goal of the present study is to identify possible relationships between loneliness, risk behavior in the use of psychoactive substances of adolescents, based on the ecosystem meta-frame of living space (which also reflects virtual space), as one of the essential factors in the emergence and development of addiction. Based on this, an effort is made to compile predictive models of multiple risk behaviors concerning the use of psychoactive substances.
Methods: Loneliness is determined using the OESL questionnaire (Gierveld & Tilburg, 2021). The RSi questionnaire examines risk behavior (Kahan et al., 2021 in press; Lovašová, 2021). Multiple linear regressions construct predictive models, and subcategories are subjected to correlations and parametric tests. At the same time, data on adolescents' loneliness are compared with data on the loneliness of addicted adult respondents and data on abstainers from another research.
File: The representative sample consists of 744 respondents in the second and third years of secondary schools in the Slovak Republic, of which 263 are men and 481 women. The research file of addicted respondents consists of 138 respondents (100 men, 38 women), and the research group of abstainers is 94 (58 men, 36 women).
Results: Statistically significant gender differences inexperienced social and emotional loneliness are found in adolescents and addicted respondents. For both male and female adolescents, excessive internet use is a significant predictor of psychoactive substance use. The prediction is more robust if, in adolescents, at least one parent suffers or has suffered from some kind of addiction.
Conclusions: Aspects of virtual space act as significant risk factors which, together with loneliness, create multiple risk conditions for risk behavior in the field of psychoactive substance use.
EVALUATION OF THE STATEMENT OF TATIANA MASLOVSKAYA ABOUT THE NEW TRENDS IN ELECTORAL LAW IN THE CIS COUNTRIES IN THE PERIOD FROM 2017 TILL 2019
Authors: Marmilova Ekaterina
Published: November 2021

During the period from 2017 till 2019, there is a tendency of acceptance of new norms in Electoral Codes and Constitutional laws in the CIS countries. The author analyzed the hypothesis by Tatiana Maslovskaya about the evolution of electoral legislation in the CIS countries and new trends as codification, globalization, democratization in electoral law, by making the analysis of the amendments to the Electoral Codes and Constitutional Laws of the CIS countries in the period from 2017 to 2019. The globalization trend of electoral legislation in the CIS countries was not clearly expressed in those amendments, additions that were adopted in the research period.
Conclusions: There is a tendency for individual CIS countries to codify their electoral legislation in codification format since they haven't done it before. The democratization trend is clearly expressed in the amendments.
INFLUENCE OF INTEREST GROUPS IN LATVIA ON CENTRALIZATION
Authors: Pūķis Māris , Seimuškāne Lilita
Published: November 2021

Latvia has experienced four administrative-territorial reforms in 30 years. In 1989, local and regional elections were the first democratic elections in Latvia since 1934. From 1990 to 1992, self-governments were the main authority for re-establishing national independence and transforming the country from totalitarianism to democracy. The transformation process starts with wide decentralization, including substantial fiscal decentralization and substantial administrative decentralization.

The first reform was the centralization (1994) of Rīga city government (1 self-government instead of a two-tier system, with 6 district local governments and 1 city local government).  The second reform abolished elections in 26 regional councils (1998) and replaced them by delegates from local governments. The third reform (2009) was abolishing regional governments and reducing the number of local governments 5 times. The fourth reform will be implemented after June 5 2021, and its content is reduction of the number of municipalities 3 times. Therefore, from 596 local and regional governments in 1990s, Latvia will only have 42 local governments.

All those reforms were directed towards centralization. Official goals of public administration reforms can differ from real intents of pressure groups, who impact ruling political parties and central government decisions. The paper aims to analyze reforms depending on pressure groups, who believe in benefits from centralization. Methods of policy analysis and grouping of statistics about administrative territories are used.

They provided research shows that real goals of all four reforms were an expression of political competition. Dominating interest groups in each case have conflicting interests. Previous reforms facilitated emigration and peripheries effect, while the positive impact on regional development is not achieved. The impact of the last reform will largely depend on the results of the next parliamentary election of 2022.
Embedded Radiation sensor with OBIST structure for applications in mixed signal systems
Authors: Petrashin Pablo , Lancioni Walter , Laprovitta Agustín , Castagnola Juan
Published: November 2021

Oscillation based testing (OBT) has proven to be a simple and effective test strategy for numerous kind of circuits. In this work, OBT is applied to a radiation sensor to be used as a VLSI cell in embedded applications, implementing an oscillation built-in self-test (OBIST) structure. The oscillation condition is achieved by means of a minimally intrusive switched feedback loop and the response evaluation circuit can be included in a very simple way, minimizing the hardware overhead. The fault simulation indicates a fault coverage of 100% for the circuit under test.Keywords: fault simulation, mixed signal testing, OBIST, oscillation-based test, VLSI testing.
Practical considerations for the commissioning and delivery of modular facilities
Authors: Clough Isobel
Published: November 2021

The process of commissioning and planning a new building can be complex, requiring a combination of skills, expertise and motivation from several different stakeholders. The first article in this series on healthcare infrastructure made the case for more modular facilities in the NHS, to increase capacity and help services address the growing care backlog. This article, the second in a series of three, will discuss the process of commissioning a modular facility, drawing on two in-depth case studies to provide insight from healthcare managers who have successfully completed such a project. This includes exploration of the circumstances that led the trusts to consider a modular solution, the challenges they faced, how they overcame those challenges and the benefits they have observed in their services so far. A guide to the key considerations and recommendations for commissioning and planning a modular facility is also provided for trusts looking for ways to expand their service capacity.
Chest compression efficacy of child resuscitators
Authors: Lau Tiffany Wai Shan , Lim Anthony Robert , Len Kyra Anne , Yamamoto Loren Gene
Published: November 2021

Background:

Chest compression efficacy determines blood flow in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and relies on body mechanics, so resuscitator weight matters. Individuals of insufficient weight are incapable of generating a sufficient downward chest compression force using traditional methods.

Aims:

This study investigated how a resuscitator's weight affects chest compression efficacy, determined the minimum weight required to perform chest compressions and, for children and adults below this minimum weight, examine alternate means to perform chest compressions.

Methods:

Volunteers aged 8 years and above were enrolled to perform video-recorded, music-facilitated, compression-only CPR on an audible click-confirming manikin for 2 minutes, following brief training. Subjects who failed this proceeded to alternate modalities: chest compressions by jumping on the lower sternum; and squat-bouncing (bouncing the buttocks on the chest). These methods were assessed via video review.

Findings:

There were 57 subjects. The 30 subjects above 40kg were all able to complete nearly 200 compressions in 2 minutes. Success rates declined in those who weighed less than 40kg. Below 30 kg, only one subject (29.9 kg weight) out of 14 could achieve 200 effective compressions. Nearly all of the 23 subjects who could not perform conventional chest compressions were able to achieve effective chest compressions using alternate methods.

Conclusion:

A weight below 40kg resulted in a declining ability to perform standard chest compressions effectively. For small resuscitators, the jumping and squat-bouncing methods resulted in sufficient compressions most of the time; however, chest recoil and injuries are concerns.
Writing a prescription: the law and good practice
Authors: Bowles Alexandra
Published: November 2021

Paramedic independent prescribing offers an opportunity to improve patient access to medications. However, incomplete, unclear or incorrectly written prescriptions can cause harm to patients. This article in the Prescribing Paramedic series considers: the legal requirements a prescription must meet for prescription-only medicines and controlled drugs; common errors that may occur during prescription writing and potential solutions; and best practice recommendations for prescribers to follow when writing a prescription to minimise errors. The advantages and disadvantages of electronic prescribing are discussed.
Shadowing an advanced clinical practitioner in A&E
Authors: Brown Mitchell
Published: November 2021

In this month's Paramedic Roles, Mitchell Brown shares his experience shadowing an ACP in A&E
Continuous wave terahertz receivers with 4.5 THz bandwidth and 112 dB dynamic range
Authors: Deumer Milan , Breuer Steffen , Kohlhaas Robert , Nellen Simon , Liebermeister Lars , Lauck Sebastian , Schell Martin , Globisch Björn
Published: November 2021

We present photomixers made of iron doped indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs:Fe) as broadband receivers in optoelectronic continuous wave (cw) terahertz (THz) systems. InGaAs:Fe shows higher resistivity and shorter carrier lifetimes compared to the state-of-the-art low-temperature-grown material. These improved material properties translate into an improved frequency response and lower noise level of the InGaAs:Fe photomixers. We were able to measure a bandwidth of 4.5 THz with a peak dynamic range of 112 dB at 30 mW laser excitation around 1550 nm. To the best of our knowledge, these are record high values for cw THz spectroscopy. Furthermore we achieved an increased dynamic range by up to 10 dB for frequencies above 1 THz compared to state-of-the-art photomixing receivers. These improvements enable faster and more precise spectroscopy with higher bandwidth. In industrial non-destructive testing, the measurement rate may be increased by a factor of ten posing a valuable contribution to inline process monitoring.
Wide viewing angle polarization interference filter using double liquid crystal layers with opposite twisted direction
Authors: Niu Rui , Zhang Chi , Li Xiaoshuai , Ma Hongmei , Sun Yubao
Published: November 2021

We demonstrate a wide viewing angle polarization interference filter (PIF), which consists of two crossed polarizers and double liquid crystal layers with opposite twisted direction. The polarization interference effect of the PIF is achieved by the double liquid crystal layers, and an additional compensation layer between the double liquid crystal layers can further improve the optical performance of the PIF. By using the Jones matrix method, we derive the transmittance formula of the PIF with/without compensation layer, which can be used to design any required color filter by selecting the appropriate twist angle and thickness of the liquid crystal layer. We design blue, green and red PIFs and analyze their optical performance. The proposed PIF has a wider viewing angle (±30°), and the color saturation of the PIF is also considerably high.
Observing two-particle Anderson localization in linear disordered photonic lattices
Authors: Xing Yan , Zhao Xuedong , Lü Zhe , Liu Shutian , Zhang Shou , Wang Hong-Fu
Published: November 2021

We theoretically and systematically investigate Anderson localization of two bosons with nearest-neighbor interaction in one dimension under short- and long-time scales, two types of disorders, and three types of initial states, which can be directly observed in linear disordered photonic lattices via two experimentally measurable physical quantities, participation ratio and spatial correlation. We find that the behavior of localization characterized by the participation ratio depends on the strength of interaction and the type of disorder and initial condition. Two-boson spatial correlation reveals more novel and unique features. In the ordered case, two types of two-boson bindings and bosonic “fermionization” are shown, which are intimately attributed to the band structure of the system. In the disordered case, the impact of interaction on the two-boson Anderson localization is reexamined and the joint effect of disorder and interaction is addressed. We further demonstrate that the independence of the participation ratio or spatial correlation on the sign of interaction can be eliminated by employing an initial state that breaks one of two specific symmetries. Finally, we elucidate the relevant details of the experimental implementation in a two-dimensional linear photonic lattice.
Neurocomputational mechanism of controllability inference under a multi-agent setting
Authors: Kim Jaejoong , Lee Sang Wan , Yoon Seokho , Park Haeorm , Jeong Bumseok
Published: November 2021

Controllability perception significantly influences motivated behavior and emotion and requires an estimation of one’s influence on an environment. Previous studies have shown that an agent can infer controllability by observing contingency between one’s own action and outcome if there are no other outcome-relevant agents in an environment. However, if there are multiple agents who can influence the outcome, estimation of one’s genuine controllability requires exclusion of other agents’ possible influence. Here, we first investigated a computational and neural mechanism of controllability inference in a multi-agent setting. Our novel multi-agent Bayesian controllability inference model showed that other people’s action-outcome contingency information is integrated with one’s own action-outcome contingency to infer controllability, which can be explained as a Bayesian inference. Model-based functional MRI analyses showed that multi-agent Bayesian controllability inference recruits the temporoparietal junction (TPJ) and striatum. Then, this inferred controllability information was leveraged to increase motivated behavior in the vmPFC. These results generalize the previously known role of the striatum and vmPFC in single-agent controllability to multi-agent controllability, and this generalized role requires the TPJ in addition to the striatum of single-agent controllability to integrate both self- and other-related information. Finally, we identified an innate positive bias toward the self during the multi-agent controllability inference, which facilitated behavioral adaptation under volatile controllability. Furthermore, low positive bias and high negative bias were associated with increased daily feelings of guilt. Our results provide a mechanism of how our sense of controllability fluctuates due to other people in our lives, which might be related to social learned helplessness and depression.
Harnessing natural variation to identify cis regulators of sex-biased gene expression in a multi-strain mouse liver model
Authors: Matthews Bryan J. , Melia Tisha , Waxman David J.
Published: November 2021

Sex differences in gene expression are widespread in the liver, where many autosomal factors act in tandem with growth hormone signaling to regulate individual variability of sex differences in liver metabolism and disease. Here, we compare hepatic transcriptomic and epigenetic profiles of mouse strains C57BL/6J and CAST/EiJ, representing two subspecies separated by 0.5–1 million years of evolution, to elucidate the actions of genetic factors regulating liver sex differences. We identify 144 protein coding genes and 78 lncRNAs showing strain-conserved sex bias; many have gene ontologies relevant to liver function, are more highly liver-specific and show greater sex bias, and are more proximally regulated than genes whose sex bias is strain-dependent. The strain-conserved genes include key growth hormone-dependent transcriptional regulators of liver sex bias; however, three other transcription factors, Trim24, Tox, and Zfp809, lose their sex-biased expression in CAST/EiJ mouse liver. To elucidate the observed strain specificities in expression, we characterized the strain-dependence of sex-biased chromatin opening and enhancer marks at cis regulatory elements (CREs) within expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) regulating liver sex-biased genes. Strikingly, 208 of 286 eQTLs with strain-specific, sex-differential effects on expression were associated with a complete gain, loss, or reversal of the sex differences in expression between strains. Moreover, 166 of the 286 eQTLs were linked to the strain-dependent gain or loss of localized sex-biased CREs. Remarkably, a subset of these CREs apparently lacked strain-specific genetic variants yet showed coordinated, strain-dependent sex-biased epigenetic regulation. Thus, we directly link hundreds of strain-specific genetic variants to the high variability in CRE activity and expression of sex-biased genes and uncover underlying genetically-determined epigenetic states controlling liver sex bias in genetically diverse mouse populations.
Drug-induced orthostatic hypotension: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Bhanu Cini , Nimmons Danielle , Petersen Irene , Orlu Mine , Davis Daniel , Hussain Hajra , Magammanage Sanuri , Walters Kate
Published: November 2021

Background

Drug-induced orthostatic hypotension (OH) is common, and its resulting cerebral hypoperfusion is linked to adverse outcomes including falls, strokes, cognitive impairment, and increased mortality. The extent to which specific medications are associated with OH remains unclear.

Methods and findings

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the extent to which specific drug groups are associated with OH. EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases were searched from inception through 23 November 2020. Placebo-controlled randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on any drug reporting on OH as an adverse effect in adults (≥18 years) were eligible. Three authors extracted data on the drug, OH, dose, participant characteristics, and study setting. The revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials (RoB 2) was used to appraise evidence. Summary odds ratios (ORs) were estimated for OH using fixed effects Mantel–Haenszel statistics. We conducted subgroup analysis on validity of OH measurement, drug dose, risk of bias, age, and comorbidity. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) tool was used to summarise the certainty of evidence. Of 36,940 citations, 69 eligible RCTs were included in the meta-analysis comprising 27,079 participants. Compared with placebo, beta-blockers and tricyclic antidepressants were associated with increased odds of OH (OR 7.76 [95% CI 2.51, 24.03]; OR 6.30 [95% CI 2.86, 13.91]). Alpha-blockers, antipsychotics, and SGLT-2 inhibitors were associated with up to 2-fold increased odds of OH, compared to placebo. There was no statistically significant difference in odds of OH with vasodilators (CCBs, ACE inhibitors/ARBs, SSRIs), compared to placebo. Limitations of this study are as follows: data limited to placebo-controlled studies, (excluding head-to-head trials), many RCTs excluded older participants; therefore results may be amplified in older patients in the clinical setting. The study protocol is publicly available on PROSPERO (CRD42020168697).

Conclusions

Medications prescribed for common conditions (including depression, diabetes, and lower urinary tract symptoms) were associated with significantly increased odds of OH. Drugs causing sympathetic inhibition were associated with significantly increased odds of OH, while most vasodilators were associated with small nonsignificant differences in odds of OH, compared to placebo. Drugs targeting multiple parts of the orthostatic blood pressure (BP) reflex pathway (e.g. sympathetic inhibition, vasodilation, cardio-inhibitory effects) may carry cumulative risk, suggesting that individuals with polypharmacy could benefit from postural BP monitoring.
The connection between Trypanosoma cruzi transmission cycles by Triatoma brasiliensis brasiliensis: A threat to human health in an area susceptible to desertification in the Seridó, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
Authors: Lima-Neiva Vanessa , Toma Helena Keiko , Abrantes Aguiar Lúcia Maria , Lopes Catarina Macedo , Dias Letícia Paschoaletto , Monte Gonçalves Teresa Cristina , Costa Jane
Published: November 2021

An outbreak of Chagas disease, possibly involving its vector Triatoma brasiliensis brasiliensis, was identified in the state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN). Given the historical significance of this vector in public health, the study aimed to evaluate its role in the transmission dynamics of the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi in an area undergoing desertification in the Seridó region, RN, Brazil. We captured triatomines in sylvatic and anthropic ecotopes. Natural vector infection was determined using parasitological and molecular methods and we identified discrete typing units (DTUs) of T. cruzi by analyzing the COII gene of mtDNA, 24Sα rDNA, and mini-exon gene. Their blood meals sources were identified by amplification and sequencing of the mtDNA cytochrome b gene. A total of 952 T. b. brasiliensis were captured in peridomestic (69.9%) and sylvatic ecotopes (30.4%). A wide range of natural infection rates were observed in peridomestic (36.0% - 71.1%) and sylvatic populations (28.6% - 100.0%). We observed the circulation of TcI and TcII DTUs with a predominance of Tcl in sylvatic and peridomestic environments. Kerodon rupestris, rocky cavy (13/39), Homo sapiens, human (8/39), and Bos taurus, ox (6/39) were the most frequently detected blood meals sources. Thus, Triatoma b. brasiliensis is invading and colonizing the human dwellings. Furthermore, high levels of natural infection, coupled with the detection of TcI and TcII DTUs, and also the detection of K. rupestris and H. sapiens as blood meals sources of infected T. b. brasiliensis indicate a risk of T. cruzi transmission to human populations in areas undergoing desertification.
Semiparametric maximum likelihood probability density estimation
Authors: Kwasniok Frank
Published: November 2021

A comprehensive methodology for semiparametric probability density estimation is introduced and explored. The probability density is modelled by sequences of mostly regular or steep exponential families generated by flexible sets of basis functions, possibly including boundary terms. Parameters are estimated by global maximum likelihood without any roughness penalty. A statistically orthogonal formulation of the inference problem and a numerically stable and fast convex optimization algorithm for its solution are presented. Automatic model selection over the type and number of basis functions is performed with the Bayesian information criterion. The methodology can naturally be applied to densities supported on bounded, infinite or semi-infinite domains without boundary bias. Relationships to the truncated moment problem and the moment-constrained maximum entropy principle are discussed and a new theorem on the existence of solutions is contributed. The new technique compares very favourably to kernel density estimation, the diffusion estimator, finite mixture models and local likelihood density estimation across a diverse range of simulation and observation data sets. The semiparametric estimator combines a very small mean integrated squared error with a high degree of smoothness which allows for a robust and reliable detection of the modality of the probability density in terms of the number of modes and bumps.
Effects of concurrent and staggered dosing of semi-solid enteral nutrients on pharmacokinetic behavior of antiepileptic drugs after oral administration in rats
Authors: Nagai Katsuhito , Ryuno Yoshikazu , Iwanami Yoshihito , Omotani Sachiko , Fukuno Shuhei , Hatsuda Yasutoshi , Konishi Hiroki , Myotoku Michiaki
Published: November 2021

Background

The use of enteral nutrients plays a highly important role in accurate nutrition management, but limited information is currently available on the cautionary points of semi-solid enteral nutrients.

Aim

In this study, we examined whether the pharmacokinetic profiles of sodium valproate (SVA), levetiracetam (LEV), and carbamazepine (CBZ) are affected by altering the dosing time of RACOL®-NF Semi Solid for Enteral Use (RASS), a prescribed semi-solid formula. We also investigated whether the pharmacokinetic interaction observed in this study can be avoided by staggered dosing of the chemical drug and semi-solid enteral nutrient.

Methods

The plasma concentration of SVA, LEV and CBZ after oral administration was measured by LC-MS/MS method.

Results

There was no difference in pharmacokinetic characteristics of SVA and LEV when the dosing time of RASS was altered. On the other hand, the plasma concentration of CBZ after oral administration at all sampling points decreased with the extension of the dosing time of RASS, which was consistent with the Cmaxand AUC. However, no significant difference was observed in the pharmacokinetic profiles or parameters of CBZ between the short-term and long-term RASS dosing groups by prolonging the administered interval of CBZ and RASS for 2 hr.

Conclusion

We concluded that the pharmacokinetic profiles of CBZ, but not SVA and LEV, after its oral administration are affected by the dosing time of RASS, but staggered administration of CBZ and RASS prevented their interaction.
A pattern of platelet indices as a potential marker for prediction of pre-eclampsia among pregnant women attending a Tertiary Hospital, Ethiopia: A case-control study
Authors: Bawore Solomon Gebre , Adissu Wondimagegn , Niguse Berhanu , Larebo Yilma Markos , Ermolo Nigussie Abebe , Gedefaw Lealem
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Preeclampsia is the most serious health risk during pregnancy for both the mother and the fetus. Even though platelet parameters are among the proposed biomarkers for the prediction of preeclampsia, the use of its indices in the diagnosis of preeclampsia is not increasing in Ethiopia. There is little information on platelet patterns in preeclampsia and normal pregnancy. The purpose of this study was to determine the pattern of platelet indices in women with preeclampsia in our study setting.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted among 180 pregnant women who attended anti-natal follow-ups from January 1 to April 3, 2019. An Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid anti-coagulated venous blood was collected and analyzed using a hematology analyzer (MINDRAY®-BC-300Plus, Shenzhen China). The SPSS software version 26 was used to run the Mann Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test, Post-hock test augmented with Benforeni, receiver operating characteristics curve, and Spear Man rank-order correlation. A P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 180 pregnant women were included in the study. Platelet count and platelet crit levels tend to decrease as pre-eclampsia becomes more severe. In contrast, the mean platelet volume and platelet distribution widths were significantly increased with the severity of preeclampsia (P<0.001). Platelet distribution width (rho = 0.731, p<0.001) and mean platelet volume (rho = 0.674, p<0.001) had statistically significant positive relationships with mean arterial pressure. The best metric for predicting preeclampsia was platelet distribution width (AUC = 0.986; 95%CI; 0.970, 1).

Conclusions

Platelet indices, including platelet count, mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, and Platelet crit, have been identified as promising candidate markers for predicting preeclampsia in pregnant women. In the future, a serial examination of these indicators during several trimesters of pregnancy should be conducted.
Does the risk of major customer need to be balanced? The role of customer concentration in corporate governance
Authors: Gao Di , Ma Jiangming , Wang Yiru
Published: November 2021

In the operation and management of the company, major customers may affect a supplier firm’s level of governance. The goal of our study is investigating whether a major customer acts as an important role in corporate governance in emerging markets and exposing the mechanism that how major customers affect corporate decision-making. There is a growing body of literature involving studies about the effect of customer concentration on firm performance of western countries. Few studies have recognized to what degree does customer concentration satisfy the sustainable development of supplier firm. Using a sample of Chinese listed firms, we found a nonlinear relationship between customer concentration and risk-taking, corporate policies and firm performance. Evidence shows that the effect of customer concentration in China resembles an inverted U-shaped curve and major customers are crucial in financial and investment policies. Our results help to provide a broader perspective on the role of major customers, giving a deep explanation about the role of customer concentration in corporate governance.
Silicon-based induced resistance in maize against fall armyworm [Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)]
Authors: Haq Inzamam Ul , Khurshid Aroosa , Inayat Rehan , Zhang Kexin , Liu Changzhong , Ali Shahbaz , Zuan Ali Tan Kee , Al-Hashimi Abdulrahman , Abbasi Arshad Mehmood
Published: November 2021

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a major economic pest in the United States and has recently become a significant concern in African and Asian countries. Due to its increased resistance to current management strategies, including pesticides and transgenic corn, alternative management techniques have become more necessary. Currently, silicon (Si) is being used in many pest control systems due to its ability to increase plant resistance to biotic and abiotic factors and promote plant growth. The current experiments were carried out at the College of Plant Protection, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China, to test the effect of Si on lifetable parameters and lipase activity of fall armyworm and vegetative and physiological parameters of maize plants. Two sources of Si (silicon dioxide: SiO2 and potassium silicate: K2SiO3) were applied on maize plants with two application methods (foliar application and soil drenching). The experiment results revealed that foliar applications of SiO2 and K2SiO3 significantly (P≤0.05) increased mortality percentage and developmental period and decreased larval and pupal biomass of fall armyworm. Similarly, both Si sources significantly (P≤0.05) reduced lipase activity of larvae, and fecundity of adults, whereas prolonged longevity of adults. Among plant parameters, a significant increase in fresh and dry weight of shoot, stem length, chlorophyll content, and antioxidant activity was observed with foliar applications of Si. Root fresh and dry weight was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher in plants treated with soil drenching of SiO2 and K2SiO3. Moreover, SiO2 performed better for all parameters as compared to K2SiO3 and control treatment. The study conclusively demonstrated a significant negative effect on various biological parameters of fall armyworm when plants were treated with Si, so it can be a promising strategy to control this pest.
Polymerization of C9 enhances bacterial cell envelope damage and killing by membrane attack complex pores
Authors: Doorduijn Dennis J. , Heesterbeek Dani A. C. , Ruyken Maartje , de Haas Carla J. C. , Stapels Daphne A. C. , Aerts Piet C. , Rooijakkers Suzan H. M. , Bardoel Bart W.
Published: November 2021

Complement proteins can form membrane attack complex (MAC) pores that directly kill Gram-negative bacteria. MAC pores assemble by stepwise binding of C5b, C6, C7, C8 and finally C9, which can polymerize into a transmembrane ring of up to 18 C9 monomers. It is still unclear if the assembly of a polymeric-C9 ring is necessary to sufficiently damage the bacterial cell envelope to kill bacteria. In this paper, polymerization of C9 was prevented without affecting binding of C9 to C5b-8, by locking the first transmembrane helix domain of C9. Using this system, we show that polymerization of C9 strongly enhanced damage to both the bacterial outer and inner membrane, resulting in more rapid killing of severalEscherichia coliandKlebsiellastrains in serum. By comparing binding of wildtype and ‘locked’ C9 by flow cytometry, we also show that polymerization of C9 is impaired when the amount of available C9 per C5b-8 is limited. This suggests that an excess of C9 is required to efficiently form polymeric-C9. Finally, we show that polymerization of C9 was impaired on complement-resistantE.colistrains that survive killing by MAC pores. This suggests that these bacteria can specifically block polymerization of C9. All tested complement-resistantE.coliexpressed LPS O-antigen (O-Ag), compared to only one out of four complement-sensitiveE.coli. By restoring O-Ag expression in an O-Ag negative strain, we show that the O-Ag impairs polymerization of C9 and results in complement-resistance. Altogether, these insights are important to understand how MAC pores kill bacteria and how bacterial pathogens can resist MAC-dependent killing.
Horizon Volume and Being
Authors: Goché Peter P.
Published: November 2021

Drawing is an innovative practice that provides architects an emancipated spatial apparatus freed from capitalistic pressures such as, deadline, utility and profitability. Through an immersive act to which I refer as experiential criticism, my practice materializes a 1:1 drawing operation with a relative capacity to unite or react or interact with the latent dimensions of the inherited landscape – the post-industrial remains of capitalism and the Midwestern family farm legacies. Utilizes a range of domains as means of exploring not only the tangible but the intangible nature of such material cultivations, the work is based on a series of modulated experimental actions. Reflecting on two bodies of work, Perforated Horizon and InsideOute, this content proposal will consider the practice of drawing as a means of observation and teaching specific to volume, materiality, context and time.
From Being to Existence – The Beginning 0f Hegel’s Logic
Authors: De Rosales Chacón Jacinto Rivera
Published: November 2021

Der Artikel legt dar, was "Anfang" im kreisförmigen System Hegels bedeutet, und untersucht kritisch die ersten Schritte seiner Logik: Sein, Nichts, Werden, Dasein. Die These lautet: das Sein als Sein wird hier in seinem ontologischen Sinne nicht gedacht und ein dialektischer Übergang zwischen Sein und Dasein ist nicht möglich.
The article exposes what "beginning" means in the circular system of Hegel, and critically studies the first steps of his logic: being, nothing, becoming, existence. The thesis is that being as being is not there thought in its ontological sense, and that a dialectical transition between being and existence is not possible.
Plato's Begriff der ἀνάμνησις im Phaidon
Authors: Oliveira Samuel José
Published: November 2021

Dieser Aufsatz betrachtet einige zentrale Aspekte der Charakterisierung der ἀνάμνησις im Phaedo 72e‑ 77a. Er analysiert die innerlich hervorrufende Natur der ἀνάμνησις und die diese Hervorrufung beeinträchtigenden Faktoren von λήθη. Der Phaedo zeigt, 1. dass die ἀνάμνησις einen Zugang zu Bestimmungen ermöglicht, die die Mannigfaltigkeit der αἰσθήσεις übersteigen, d. h. einen Zugang zu den αὐτά, 2. dass unsere gesamte Erfahrung in diesen Bestimmungen verwurzelt ist, und 3. dass die Erfahrung dazu neigt, sich mit den αὐτά selber zu verwechseln. Aus alledem ergibt sich eine Verbindung mit den αὐτά und gleichzeitig ein komplexes Phänomen von λήθη, das sie (und damit auch den wirklichen Sinn der ἀνάμνησις) verdeckt.
Iberismo e Poesia Portuguesa em Maiorca
Authors: Esquirol Jesús Revelles
Published: November 2021

A revista Ponent, publicada entre 1956 e 1983, foi decisiva no estabelecimento de contactos da ilha de Maiorca com Portugal e as suas letras. O seu responsável era o poeta e pedagogo Llorenç Vidal. Nascido em Santanyí, Vidal foi um grande estudioso e incentivador da pedagogia da não- -violência e dos fins pacifistas. Num período inicial, que vai até 1974, foi possível ler na revista originais e traduções de grandes lusitanistas como Manuel de Seabra ou Fèlix Cucurull. No volume 16 da coleção La Font de les Tortugues (dependente de Ponent) foi publicado o decisivo Poetes portuguesos d’ara I (1961), onde se incluíram poemas de José Gomes Ferreira, Domingos Monteiro, Natércia Freire e Carlos de Oliveira, quatro poetes portugueses ligados ao neorrealismo ou realismo social, vigente na época. O artigo que se segue estuda quem eram, que estética perfilhavam e quem foram os tradutores das obras destes autores. Também se contextualizam as tendências iberistas catalanistas do momento para melhor se poder entender e reivindicar este período, um precedente da hoje já sólida tradição entre a ilha de Maiorca e Portugal que se tem mantido até ao dia de hoje com o trabalho de tradutores como Gabriel de la S.T. Sampol ou com a mestria de Perfecto Cuadrado.
Lembrança de Gustavo Adolfo
Authors: Barbosa Antero
Published: November 2021

É conhecida a ligação de Eugénio de Andrade à literatura espanhola. Em Rosto precário o autor confirma esse conhecimento, mas prefere chamar-lhe “relações com a cultura espanhola.” Desse conhecimento destaca-se a idolatria pela poesia de Federico García Lorca, que Andrade considera um dos “grandes encontros (…) da juventude”. Na mesma obra, em que há uma referência muito breve à poesia de Bécquer, Andrade refuta a influência da poesia de Lorca, usando como exemplo a investigação de uma docente italiana, Emanuela Frighi, a qual conclui que as “analogias encontradas, mostram- se insuficientes, dado que pertencem à categoria de lugares-comuns na história da poesia”. Sendo inexistente ou não provada a influência de Lorca, menos provável seria ainda a influência de Bécquer. No entanto, é esse justamente o objetivo deste artigo: proceder a várias indagações, tentando provar a analogia entre as duas poéticas, ao nível do conteúdo no que se refere aos temas do mar, dos elementos naturais, da música e do amor em perda, e ao nível das semelhanças formais no que respeita a elementos estróficos, ocorrências vocabulares e expressões. Influência ou não, acaso ou coincidência, o artigo conclui que há muito de comum acima do lugar- -comum entre as poéticas de Andrade e Bécquer.
Retratos e relatos do/no feminino
Authors: Ribeiro Eunice , Sabarís Xaquín Núñez , Tavares Daniel
Published: November 2021

A partir de uma perspetiva ibérica, mais concretamente galego-portuguesa, propomos neste ensaio uma leitura dialogante da poesia de mulheres-poetas do nosso século que nos oferecem uma visão outra do feminino e da identidade feminina, pondo em jogo uma determinada teologia da feminilidade a par de conceitos que convocam de modo explícito a representação do corpo: Anunciações (2016), da escritora portuguesa Maria Teresa Horta, um romance em verso que reescreve o encontro bíblico entre a Virgem e Gabriel; e O libro da egoísta (2003) da jovem escritora galega Yolanda Castaño, uma obra que integra códigos literários e audiovisuais e onde a reflexão sobre a identidade se desdobra e se multiplica, devolvendo uma imagem construída entre o eu mais íntimo e a perceção pública da autora.
O romance histórico pós-modernista na Península Ibérica
Authors: Dantas Gregório Foganholi , Mazzini Vinicius Gonçalves
Published: November 2021

O romance histórico, atendendo às mudanças da literatura e da sociedade, atualizou-se e transformou-se, possibilitando que a história fosse abordada sob uma nova perspectiva. Linda Hutcheon (1991) define o romance histórico pós-moderno como metaficção historiográfica, na qual a história pode ser contada por um ponto de vista que fuja ao estabelecido pelo positivismo. Nessa vertente, temos as obras de Javier Cercas – Soldados de Salamina (2001) – e João Tordo – Anatomia dos mártires (2013) – nas quais os autores exploram os regimes fascistas que assolaram seus países a partir de um personagem ex-cêntrico. Este artigo analisa as obras desses autores, situando-as histórica e teoricamente, traçando as similitudes existentes entre elas e compreendendo como os autores utilizam do material histórico e das estratégias literárias para trazer à tona um momento tão dolorido do passado de sua pátria. Para análise lançamos mão de autores como Gÿorgy Lucáks (2011), Hayden White (1995) e Linda Hutcheon (1991).
Study of Total Phenolic, Total Flavonoid, Scopoletin Contents and Antioxidant Activity of Extract of Ripened Noni Juice
Authors: Meilawati Lia , Ernawati Teni , Dewi Rizna Triana , Megawati Megawati , Sukirno Sukirno
Published: November 2021

AbstractExtraction of ripened noni juice has been carried out using ethanol and water. The purpose of this study was to determine the total phenolic, total flavonoids, scopoletin, content and antioxidant activity of the ripened noni juice extract. The activity test was carried out on the ripened noni juice extract without and with the addition of ethanol and water solvent. The phytochemical assays of ethanol extract of the ripened noni juice showed that thetotal phenolic content was 3,94 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract, the total flavonoids was 0,59 mg quercetin equivalent /g extract, the IC50 antioxidant activity was 24,92 mg/L, scopoletin content was 2,45 mg/gram.Keywords : Antioxidant, flavonoids, phenolic, ripened noni juice, scopoletin
GOOD GOVERNANCE AND NATURAL RESOURCE CURSE; WHICH HYPOTHESIS IS PREVAILING IN ASEAN ECONOMIES?
Authors: Iskandar Deden , Hendarto Robertus Mulyo , Reza Adhevyo
Published: November 2021

This study aims to find the relevance of the natural resource curse and good governance hypothesis in ASEAN economies post-financial crises 1998. Employing Generalized Method of Moments (GMM), this study finds that good governance practices (Control of Corruption, Political Stability, and Voice and Accountability) play a role in the ASEAN economies after the great financial crisis. Thus, the hypothesis stating that good governance practices will improve economic development is confirmed. On the other hand, the observation of the natural resource curse hypothesis in ASEAN countries returns mixed results. The hypothesis states that natural resource abundance is associated with lower economic performance. This study finds that dependence on the natural resource by itself does not affect GDP. However, the natural resource curse occurs when countries with bad governance (low Control of Corruption) depend on agriculture resources. On the other hand, the natural resource becomes a blessing when the countries that rely on agriculture resources are supported with good governance practices in terms of strong Government Effectiveness, Political Stability, and Voice and Accountability.  Thus, the effect of natural resources on economic development depends on the quality of governance. This paper highlights the importance of observing the natural resource and good governance in interaction instead of in isolation and the relevance of disaggregating the indicators of good governance as well as natural resources.
EMPLOYMENT CONDITION, THE EFFECTS OF HUSBAND’S OCCUPATION, AND EDUCATION ON PARTICIPATION OF MARRIED WOMEN IN THE INDONESIAN LABOR MARKET
Authors: Agusta Muhammad Rizqon Agusta , Ghuzini Diny
Published: November 2021

A previous study has shown that households with both the head and the spouse joining the labor force tend to exit from poverty. In Indonesia, women that actively participated in labor market were relatively small, only around 50% in 2017. Meanwhile, most of the women in Indonesia were married in 2017. A husband was one of the factors affecting their wife’s decision to participate in labor market. This study investigates married women’s employment conditions and the effects of husband’s occupation and education on their labor market participation. The research sample consists of women aged 15-year-old and above, married, and living with their husband. We found that the higher the husband’s education, the lower married women’s probability of participating in the labor market. Husbands with an informal occupation increased married women’s probability to be in the labor force.
Conflict cultures – Qualitative Comparative Analysis of environmental conflicts in forestry
Authors: Hellström Eeva
Published: November 2021

Owing to the internationalisation of the forestry debate and forest policy, there is growing need to conduct comparative forest policy research at an international scale. This research compares environmental confl icts in forestry in seven cases during 1984–1995. The cases include Finland, France, Minnesota USA, Norway, Pacifi c Northwest USA, Sweden and West Germany. The research is based on the notion that each society has its own ‘cultural’ ways of producing and managing environmental confl icts in forestry, depending on the social, political, economic, and resource characteristics of the society. The purpose of the study is to describe these confl ict cultures, to identify and analyse the societal aspects that impact them, and to discuss the implications of understanding confl icts as cultural phenomena. The research is based on focused interviews of multiple actors related to forest management and protection. For the data analysis, a ‘hermeneutic’ (interpretative and understanding) approach is introduced to Qualitative Comparative Analysis, the use of which has been dominated by causal applications. As a result of the analysis, models of confl ict cultures and confl ict management strategies are constructed. The model of confl ict cultures indicates three basic dimensions of confl ict culture, and defi nes how they are related to each other. These dimensions are mild vs. intense confl icts, separatist vs. co-operative relations between actors and stability vs. change in forest resource policy and use. The model of confl ict management strategies indicates to what extent the different cases place emphasis on interactive vs. institutional confl ict management, and the management of confl icting (sub)cultures within the society vs. the confl ict culture of the society.