bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Speed and Unified ECC Processor for Generic Weierstrass Curves over GF(p) on FPGA
Authors: Awaludin Asep Muhamad , Larasati Harashta Tatimma , Kim Howon
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we present a high-speed, unified elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) processor for arbitrary Weierstrass curves over GF(p), which to the best of our knowledge, outperforms other similar works in terms of execution time. Our approach employs the combination of the schoolbook long and Karatsuba multiplication algorithm for the elliptic curve point multiplication (ECPM) to achieve better parallelization while retaining low complexity. In the hardware implementation, the substantial gain in speed is also contributed by our n-bit pipelined Montgomery Modular Multiplier (pMMM), which is constructed from our n-bit pipelined multiplier-accumulators that utilizes digital signal processor (DSP) primitives as digit multipliers. Additionally, we also introduce our unified, pipelined modular adder/subtractor (pMAS) for the underlying field arithmetic, and leverage a more efficient yet compact scheduling of the Montgomery ladder algorithm. The implementation for 256-bit modulus size on the 7-series FPGA: Virtex-7, Kintex-7, and XC7Z020 yields 0.139, 0.138, and 0.206 ms of execution time, respectively. Furthermore, since our pMMM module is generic for any curve in Weierstrass form, we support multi-curve parameters, resulting in a unified ECC architecture. Lastly, our method also works in constant time, making it suitable for applications requiring high speed and SCA-resistant characteristics.
Techniques for Temperature Monitoring of Myocardial Tissue Undergoing Radiofrequency Ablation Treatments: An Overview
Authors: Zaltieri Martina , Massaroni Carlo , Cauti Filippo Maria , Schena Emiliano
Published: February 2021

Cardiac radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has received substantial attention for the treatment of multiple arrhythmias. In this scenario, there is an ever-growing demand for monitoring the temperature trend inside the tissue as it may allow an accurate control of the treatment effects, with a consequent improvement of the clinical outcomes. There are many methods for monitoring temperature in tissues undergoing RFA, which can be divided into invasive and non-invasive. This paper aims to provide an overview of the currently available techniques for temperature detection in this clinical scenario. Firstly, we describe the heat generation during RFA, then we report the principle of work of the most popular thermometric techniques and their features. Finally, we introduce their main applications in the field of cardiac RFA to explore the applicability in clinical settings of each method.
Fiber Bragg Grating Wavelength Drift in Long-Term High Temperature Annealing
Authors: Grobnic Dan , Hnatovsky Cyril , Dedyulin Sergey , Walker Robert B. , Ding Huimin , Mihailov Stephen J.
Published: February 2021

High-temperature-resistant fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) are the main competitors to thermocouples as sensors in applications for high temperature environments defined as being in the 600–1200 °C temperature range. Due to their small size, capacity to be multiplexed into high density distributed sensor arrays and survivability in extreme ambient temperatures, they could provide the essential sensing support that is needed in high temperature processes. While capable of providing reliable sensing information in the short term, their long-term functionality is affected by the drift of the characteristic Bragg wavelength or resonance that is used to derive the temperature. A number of physical processes have been proposed as the cause of the high temperature wavelength drift but there is yet no credible description of this process. In this paper we review the literature related to the long-term wavelength drift of FBGs at high temperature and provide our recent results of more than 4000 h of high temperature testing in the 900–1000 °C range. We identify the major components of the high temperature wavelength drift and we propose mechanisms that could be causing them.
On the Synergy between Nonconvex Extensions of the Tensor Nuclear Norm for Tensor Recovery
Authors: Hosono Kaito , Ono Shunsuke , Miyata Takamichi
Published: February 2021

Low-rank tensor recovery has attracted much attention among various tensor recovery approaches. A tensor rank has several definitions, unlike the matrix rank—e.g., the CP rank and the Tucker rank. Many low-rank tensor recovery methods are focused on the Tucker rank. Since the Tucker rank is nonconvex and discontinuous, many relaxations of the Tucker rank have been proposed, e.g., the sum of nuclear norm, weighted tensor nuclear norm, and weighted tensor schatten-p norm. In particular, the weighted tensor schatten-p norm has two parameters, the weight and p, and the sum of nuclear norm and weighted tensor nuclear norm are special cases of these parameters. However, there has been no detailed discussion of whether the effects of the weighting and p are synergistic. In this paper, we propose a novel low-rank tensor completion model using the weighted tensor schatten-p norm to reveal the relationships between the weight and p. To clarify whether complex methods such as the weighted tensor schatten-p norm are necessary, we compare them with a simple method using rank-constrained minimization. It was found that the simple methods did not outperform the complex methods unless the rank of the original tensor could be accurately known. If we can obtain the ideal weight, p=1 is sufficient, although it is necessary to set p<1 when using the weights obtained from observations. These results are consistent with existing reports.
Vacuum Microwave-Assisted Aqueous Extraction of Polyphenolic Compounds from Avocado (Persea Americana) Solid Waste
Authors: Skenderidis Prodromos , Leontopoulos Stefanos , Petrotos Konstantinos , Giavasis Ioannis
Published: February 2021

The extraction efficacy of avocado fruit peels (AP) and seeds (AS) with the use of vacuum microwave-assisted aqueous extraction (VMAAE) was optimized in this study, with regard to extract’s total phenolic content (TPC), maximum antioxidant activity and minimal operational cost. Temperature (79.64 and 78.11 °C for AP and 43.90 and 45.26 °C for AS), time (11.89 and 11.75 min for AP, 10.18 and 10.28 min for AS), ratio of water to raw material (16.45% and 10.02% for AP, 38.73% and 37.65% for AS) and microwave power (5708.04 and 5699.10 W for AP, 5549.08 and 4797.29 W for AS) were estimated statistically as the optimal conditions in order to achieve high rates of extracts with high TPC and antioxidant activity using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH●) scavenging radical methods, respectively. VMAAE performed under these conditions resulted in received extracts with TPC (0.352 gallic acid equivalent-GAE/g fresh AP/min and 0.124 GAE/g fresh AS/min). Furthermore, it was calculated the DPPH● radical scavenging activity was equal to 100 mg/L expressed in L of 0.104 L/min for AP and 0.045 L/min for AS. The results of our study may give a promising solution to avocado processing companies for further utilization of their waste.
Conceptualising Teacher Education for Inclusion: Lessons for the Professional Learning of Educators from Transnational and Cross-Sector Perspectives
Authors: Beaton Mhairi C. , Thomson Stephanie , Cornelius Sarah , Lofthouse Rachel , Kools Quinta , Huber Susanne
Published: February 2021

Despite policy calling for enhanced inclusive practice within all schools and colleges, educators across Europe are facing increasing challenges when providing effective inclusive education for all students as a result of increased diversity within European society. This paper focuses on the development of our understanding of how to support educators’ professional learning around issues of diversity and inclusion. Specifically, it aims to explore what diversity looks like across countries, sectors, and roles, what challenges and dilemmas are posed for educators, and how new approaches to professional learning can support the educators across all sectors. The exploratory study described in the paper emerged from work undertaken as part of an Erasmus+ Strategic Partnership project called PROMISE (Promoting Inclusion in Society through Inclusion: Professional Dilemmas in Practice). Traditional approaches to professional learning to support teachers’ inclusive practice have tended to focus on discrete courses which address specific learning needs such as autism, literacy difficulties, or behavioural issues. The paper presents findings from a transnational study which indicate that the professional dilemmas facing educators are complex and unpredictable and argues, therefore, that educators require professional learning that is collaborative, interprofessional, and acknowledges that the challenges they face are multifaceted.
Optimal Scheduling of a Regional Power System Aiming at Accommodating Clean Energy
Authors: Chen Xing , Lou Suhua , Liang Yanjie , Wu Yaowu , He Xianglu
Published: February 2021

The regional power system is an essential mechanism to solve the unbalanced distribution of resources and achieve more efficient resource allocation. In this paper, an optimal scheduling model of the regional power system is developed, to maximize social welfare and minimize clean energy electricity curtailment. This model can realize the optimal allocation of power generation resources and the maximum accommodation of multiple types of clean energy, by minimizing the sum of the electricity purchase cost and the dynamic penalty cost of clean energy. Meanwhile, it considers the modeling of the key AC/DC hybrid tie-line in the regional power grid. To this end, the modeling methods of power transmitted by AC/DC tie-line, the net loss of the tie-line, the stair-like operation of the DC tie-line power, the operation constraints of the DC tie-line are proposed. Then a simulation example study is conducted to verify the effectiveness of the model, which proves that the regional power system can stimulate the resource optimization potential better than the provincial power system.
Major Elements to Consider in Developing Ammonia Emission Factor at Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Incinerators
Authors: Kang Seongmin , Roh Joonyoung , Jeon Eui-chan
Published: February 2021

NH3 is one of the major substances contributing to the secondary generation of PM2.5; therefore, management is required. In Korea, the management of NH3 is insufficient, and the emission factor used by EPA is the same as the one used when calculating emissions. In particular, waste incineration facilities do not currently calculate NH3 emissions. In the case of combustion facilities, the main ammonia emission source is the De-NOx facility, and, in the case of a power plant with a De-NOx facility, NH3 emission is calculated. Therefore, in the case of a Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) incinerator with the same facility installed, it is necessary to calculate NH3 emissions. In this study, the necessity of developing NH3 emission factors for an MSW incinerator and calculating emission was analyzed. In addition, elements to be considered when developing emission factors were analyzed. The study found that the NH3 emission factors for each MSW incinerator technology were calculated as Stoker 0.010 NH3 kg/ton and Fluidized Beds 0.004 NH3 kg/ton, which was greater than the NH3 emission factor 0.003 NH3 kg/ton for the MSW incinerator presented in EMEP/EEA (2016). As a result, it was able to identify the need for the development of NH3 emission factors in MSW incinerators in Korea. In addition, the statistical analysis of the difference between the incineration technology of MSW and the NH3 emission factor by the De-NOx facility showed a difference in terms of both incineration technology and De-NOx facilities, indicating that they should be considered together when developing the emission factor. In addition to MSW, it is believed that it will be necessary to review the development of emission factors for waste at workplaces and incineration facilities of sewage sludge.
Determinants of Animal Welfare Disclosure Practices: Evidence from China
Authors: Sun Yanqi , Ip Pui San , Jones Michael , Wang Jenny Jing , An Yi
Published: February 2021

Public awareness of farm animal welfare has been growing. However, the animal welfare disclosure, as an important element of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reporting, has not been sufficiently explored. This paper investigates animal welfare disclosure practices as well as the determinants of animal welfare disclosure practices of 2019 corporate reports using a sample of Chinese A-share listed food firms. Content analysis of corporate reports is employed for exploring animal welfare disclosure practices and an animal welfare disclosure index is adopted as the instrument for content analysis. The analysis reveals that animal welfare reporting is still in its embryonic stage in China. It is further found that firm size, board size, and board independence positively affects animal welfare disclosure practices, while CEO duality has a negative impact. As the first to examine the determinants of animal welfare disclosure practices, this paper would have some implications for academics, practitioners, and policymakers.
Dynamic Complex Network Analysis of PM2.5 Concentrations in the UK, Using Hierarchical Directed Graphs (V1.0.0)
Authors: Broomandi Parya , Geng Xueyu , Guo Weisi , Pagani Alessio , Topping David , Kim Jong Ryeol
Published: February 2021

The risk of a broad range of respiratory and heart diseases can be increased by widespread exposure to fine atmospheric particles on account of their capability to have a deep penetration into the blood streams and lung. Globally, studies conducted epidemiologically in Europe and elsewhere provided the evidence base indicating the major role of PM2.5 leading to more than four million deaths annually. Conventional approaches to simulate atmospheric transportation of particles having high dimensionality from both transport and chemical reaction process make exhaustive causal inference difficult. Alternative model reduction methods were adopted, specifically a data-driven directed graph representation, to deduce causal directionality and spatial embeddedness. An undirected correlation and a directed Granger causality network were established through utilizing PM2.5 concentrations in 14 United Kingdom cities for one year. To demonstrate both reduced-order cases, the United Kingdom was split up into two southern and northern connected city communities, with notable spatial embedding in summer and spring. It continued to reach stability to disturbances through the network trophic coherence parameter and by which winter was construed as the most considerable vulnerability. Thanks to our novel graph reduced modeling, we could represent high-dimensional knowledge in a causal inference and stability framework.
Embodied Carbon as a Material Selection Criterion: Insights from Sri Lankan Construction Sector
Authors: Nawarathna Amalka , Siriwardana Muditha , Alwan Zaid
Published: February 2021

The choice of materials is crucial in responding to the increasing embodied carbon (EC) impacts of buildings. Building professionals involved in material selection for construction projects have a vital role to play in this regard. This paper aimed to explore the extent to which building professionals in Sri Lanka considered EC as a material selection criterion. A questionnaire survey was conducted among a sample of building professionals in Sri Lanka. The results indicated that the consideration of EC as a material selection criterion remained low among key professionals, such as architects, engineers, and sustainability managers, despite their reasonable influencing powers and knowledge of EC. Those respondents who had considered EC as a selection criterion said they had been primarily driven by green building rating systems and previous experience. Those respondents who had not considered EC during material selection commonly reported that they had been prevented from doing so by the lack of regulations and the lack of alternative low carbon materials. Respondents believed that the involvement of actors, such as the government, professional bodies, environmental organizations, activist groups, and the public, may be significant in promoting the greater consideration of EC during material selection.
Identifying Challenges and Improvement Approaches for More Efficient Procurement Coordination in Relief Supply Chains
Authors: Wankmüller Christian , Reiner Gerald
Published: February 2021

Coordinating humanitarian organizations in the procurement of urgently needed relief items is complex and characterized by decentralization and isolated decision-making. The decentralized coordination of associated tasks often results in the duplication of efforts and redundant/incorrect relief items supplies into single disaster regions, having negative impacts on the most vulnerable ones. This paper devotes attention to the challenges that exist in the coordination of procurement activities in relief supply chains and asks for improvement approaches to facilitate more efficient demand satisfaction in disaster situations. Therefore, the authors apply multiple case study research including expert interviews with procurement agents and heads of logistics from international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), humanitarian start-ups and military logistics centers. Results indicate that a lack of incentives to cooperate, poor communication, unclear division of competences and noncompliance to standards and regulations constitute substantial challenges in procurement coordination. Moreover, expert interview results show that social media integration, procurement flexibility, cluster and collaborative coordination have potential to support improving the coordination of NGOs’ procurement activities. By presenting several theoretical propositions, this paper complements already existing literature and provides a reference point for future research. Practitioners can benefit from findings as they are provided with a guide that allows redesigning certain processes in procurement coordination.
Planning for the First and Last Mile: A Review of Practices at Selected Transit Agencies in the United States
Authors: Mohiuddin Hossain
Published: February 2021

A transit trip involves travel to and from transit stops or stations. The quality of what are commonly known as first and last mile connections (regardless of their length) can have an important impact on transit ridership. Transit agencies throughout the world are developing innovative approaches to improving first and last mile connections, for example, by partnering with ride-hailing and other emerging mobility services. A small but growing number of transit agencies in the U.S. have adopted first and last mile (FLM) plans with the goal of increasing ridership. As this is a relatively new practice by transit agencies, a review of these plans can inform other transit agencies and assist them in preparing their own. Four FLM plans were selected from diverse geographic contexts for review: Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro), Riverside (CA) Transit Agency (RTA), and Denver Regional Transit District (RTD), and City of Richmond, CA. Based on the literature, we developed a framework with an emphasis on transportation equity to examine these plans. We identified five common approaches to addressing the FLM issue: spatial gap analysis with a focus on socio-demographics and locational characteristics, incorporation of emerging mobility services, innovative funding approaches for plan implementation, equity and transportation remedies for marginalized communities, and development of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructures surrounding transit stations. Strategies in three of the plans are aligned with regional goals for emissions reductions. LA Metro and Riverside Transit incorporate detailed design guidelines for the improvement of transit stations. As these plans are still relatively new, it will take time to evaluate their impact on ridership and their communities’ overall transit experience.
Consumers’ Responses to Corporate Social Responsibility: The Mediating Role of CSR Authenticity
Authors: Afzali Hajir , Kim Sang Soo
Published: February 2021

This study uses information processing and stakeholder theories as its conceptual foundation to explore the effect of authenticity on the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities and three key customer responses: corporate evaluation, product association, and purchase intention. We conducted a survey in South Korea to test the hypotheses. The results of the analysis of our sample consisting of 417 individuals showed that perceived CSR was positively associated with corporate evaluation, product association, and purchase intention. In addition, the mediating test results indicated that CSR authenticity mediated the relationship between perceived CSR and the three CSR customers’ responses to CSR. This study contributes to research on CSR authenticity and specifically adds to the conversation on the four CSR building blocks, namely, ethical codes, philanthropic contribution, organizational credibility, and resource accommodation in connection with CSR authenticity as a potentially valuable lens in the context of CSR. Managerial implications of these findings are also discussed.
Econometric Estimation of the Factors That Influence Startup Success
Authors: Díaz-Santamaría Carlos , Bulchand-Gidumal Jacques
Published: February 2021

Technology startups are important regional economic engines that are recognized as drivers of sustainable economic growth. Understanding the factors that influence their success is of interest both to the scientific community and to practitioners. However, there is currently no consensus in the literature on how to define the success of a technology startup. Startup success has multiple dimensions and different theoretical approaches and empirical contexts. Therefore, in the present work, our aim is to identify ways of measuring the success of a technology startup. Using a review of the literature and interviews with entrepreneurs and venture capital investors, we identified two common success indicators: achieving significant revenue and obtaining financing. We then analyzed the factors that have the greatest impact on startup success using 340 startups. We used a multivariate model based on independent econometric estimates for each of the two ways of defining the success of a technology startup. The main conclusion is that there are four factors that have a significant influence on the two ways of measuring success: the location of the startup, the promoting partners’ dedication, the age of the company, and the existence of nonpromoting partners.
On Generalizations of Sampling Theorem and Stability Theorem in Shift-Invariant Subspaces of Lebesgue and Wiener Amalgam Spaces with Mixed-Norms
Authors: Zhao Junjian , Kostić Marko , Du Wei-Shih
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we establish generalized sampling theorems, generalized stability theorems and new inequalities in the setting of shift-invariant subspaces of Lebesgue and Wiener amalgam spaces with mixed-norms. A convergence theorem of general iteration algorithms for sampling in some shift-invariant subspaces of Lp→(Rd) are also given.
Assessing Renewable Energy Production Capabilities Using DEA Window and Fuzzy TOPSIS Model
Authors: Wang Chia-Nan , Dang Thanh-Tuan , Tibo Hector , Duong Duy-Hung
Published: February 2021

Climate change and air pollution are among the key drivers of energy transition worldwide. The adoption of renewable resources can act as a peacemaker and give stability regarding the damaging effects of fossil fuels challenging public health as well as the tension made between countries in global prices of oil and gas. Understanding the potential and capabilities to produce renewable energy resources is a crucial pre-requisite for countries to utilize them and to scale up clean and stable sources of electricity generation. This paper presents a hybrid methodology that combines the data envelopment analysis (DEA) Window model, and fuzzy technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (FTOPSIS) in order to evaluate the capabilities of 42 countries in terms of renewable energy production potential. Based on three inputs (population, total energy consumption, and total renewable energy capacity) and two outputs (gross domestic product and total energy production), DEA window analysis chose the list of potential countries, including Norway, United Kingdom, Kuwait, Australia, Netherlands, United Arab Emirates, United States, Japan, Colombia, and Italy. Following that, the FTOPSIS model pointed out the top three countries (United States, Japan, and Australia) that have the greatest capabilities in producing renewable energies based on five main criteria, which are available resources, energy security, technological infrastructure, economic stability, and social acceptance. This paper aims to offer an evaluation method for countries to understand their potential of renewable energy production in designing stimulus packages for a cleaner energy future, thereby accelerating sustainable development.
Eupatilin Inhibits Reactive Oxygen Species Generation via Akt/NF-κB/MAPK Signaling Pathways in Particulate Matter-Exposed Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Lee Dong Chang , Oh Jeong-Min , Choi Hyunsu , Kim Sung Won , Kim Soo Whan , Kim Byung Guk , Cho Jin Hee , Lee Joohyung , Kim Ji-Sun
Published: February 2021

Background: Eupatilin is an active flavon extracted from the Artemisia species and has properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer. We examined the effect of eupatilin using fine particulate matter (FPM) and human bronchial epithelial cell line (BEAS-2B) to confirm the potential of eupatilin as a therapeutic agent for respiratory diseases caused by FPM. Methods: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were checked by flow cytometry to identify if FPM and eupatilin affect ROS production. Western blotting was performed to identify the mechanism of action of eupatilin in FPM-exposed BEAS-2B cells. Results: When cells were exposed to FPM above 12.5 μg/mL concentration for 24 h, ROS production increased significantly compared to the control. When eupatilin was added to cells exposed to FPM, the ROS level decreased proportionally with the eupatilin dose. The phosphorylation of Akt, NF-κB p65, and p38 MAPK induced by FPM was significantly reduced by eupatilin, respectively. Conclusion: FPM cause respiratory disease by producing ROS in bronchial epithelial cells. Eupatilin has been shown to inhibit ROS production through altering signaling pathways. The ROS inhibiting property of eupatilin can be exploited in FPM induced respiratory disorders.
The COVID-19 Pandemic: Disproportionate Thrombotic Tendency and Management Recommendations
Authors: Karim Sabina , Islam Amin , Rafiq Shafquat , Laher Ismail
Published: February 2021

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS COV-2 virus. Patients with COVID-19 are susceptible to thrombosis due to excessive inflammation, platelet activation, endothelial dysfunction, and circulatory stasis, resulting in an increased risk of death due to associated coagulopathies. In addition, many patients receiving antithrombotic therapy for pre-existing thrombotic diseases can develop COVID-19, which can further complicate dose adjustment, choice and laboratory monitoring of antithrombotic treatment. This review summarizes the laboratory findings, the prohemostatic state, incidence of thromboembolic events and some potential therapeutic interventions of COVID-19 associated coagulopathy. We explore the roles of biomarkers of thrombosis and inflammation according to the severity of COVID-19. While therapeutic anticoagulation has been used empirically in some patients with severe COVID-19 but without thrombosis, it may be preferable to provide supportive care based on evidence-based randomized clinical trials. The likely lifting of travel restrictions will accelerate the spread of COVID-19, increasing morbidity and mortality across nations. Many individuals will continue to receive anticoagulation therapy regardless of their location, requiring on-going treatment with low-molecular weight heparin, vitamin K antagonist or direct-acting anticoagulants.
Which patients miss appointments with general practice and the reasons why: a systematic review
Authors: Parsons Joanne , Bryce Carol , Atherton Helen
Published: February 2021

Background

Missed GP appointments have considerable time and cost implications for healthcare services.

Aim

This systematic review aims to explore the rate of missed primary care appointments, what the reported reasons are for appointments being missed, and which patients are more likely to miss appointments.

Design and setting

This study reports the findings of a systematic review. The included studies report the rate or reasons of missed appointments in a primary care setting.

Method

Databases were searched using a pre-defined search strategy. Eligible studies were selected for inclusion based on detailed inclusion criteria through title, abstract, and full text screening. Quality was assessed on all included studies, and findings were synthesised to answer the research questions.

Results

A total of 26 studies met the inclusion criteria for the review. Of these, 19 reported a rate of missed appointments. The mean rate of missed appointments was 15.2%, with a median of 12.9%. Twelve studies reported a reason that appointments were missed, with work or family/childcare commitments, forgetting the appointment, and transportation difficulties most commonly reported. In all, 20 studies reported characteristics of people likely to miss appointments. Patients who were likely to miss appointments were those from minority ethnicity, low sociodemographic status, and younger patients (<21 years).

Conclusion

Findings from this review have potential implications for targeted interventions to address missed appointments in primary care. This is the first step for clinicians to be able to target interventions to reduce the rate of missed appointments.
Lesbianidade e feminilidade(s) na visão do Teste de Apercepção Temática
Authors: Inaba Clara Maki , Miguel Fabiano Koich
Published: February 2021

Esta pesquisa objetivou analisar a autopercepção de mulheres lésbicas sobre sua feminilidade, ressaltando as dissonâncias entre mulheres lésbicas e heterossexuais. O instrumento utilizado foi o Teste de Apercepção Temática segundo o sistema morvaliano. Participaram 40 mulheres, entre 25 e 35 anos, metade se identificando como lésbica e a outra metade, como heterossexual. As categorias cujas diferenças de médias resultaram significativas foram Casal, Divertimento, Idealização do Herói, Excitação, Autonomia Antissocial, Dupla, Nutrição Exercida e Conformismo. Pode-se considerar que não haveria uma feminilidade “típica” que diferencie mulheres lésbicas e heterossexuais, uma vez que a feminilidade aparenta provir de vivências subjetivas.
Statistical Analysis of the Dynamics of Performance Indicators of Russian Universities
Authors: Melikyan A. V.
Published: February 2021

The article presents the results of a study based on statistical methods for analyzing trends in the Russian higher education system over the ﬁve-year period preceding the global crisis provoked by the coronavirus pandemic COVID-19. This study is one of the ﬁrst attempts at a large-scale analysis of the growth rates of the performance indicators of universities in recent years. Its results, according to the author, make it possible to form both a general picture of changes in Russian higher education and a detailed picture for individual groups of universities.

The author has analyzed the dynamics of six indicators of the activity of organizations of higher professional education (535 universities from 80 constituent entities of the Russian Federation): the passing score of the Uniﬁed State Examination (USE), the qualiﬁcations of academic staff, their publication activity, the internationalization of the student body, the proﬁtability of activities and the provision of educational and laboratory premises. Trends in the change in the values of these indicators are revealed depending on the form of ownership, specialization and status of the university.

It was found that, in general, the average values of the indicators for ﬁve years increased: the passing score of the USE - by 5%; the share of the teaching staff with an academic degree in the total number of teaching staff - by 5%; the number of publications per one scientiﬁc and pedagogical worker (SPW) - 2.2 times; the share of foreign students in the total number of students - 1.5 times; proﬁtability of activities - 1.3 times; the total area of educational and laboratory premises - by 8%.

At the same time, in non-state universities, the USE passing score has decreased, and they lag behind state universities in terms of growth in the publication activity of the teaching staff and the internationalization of the student body. However, their results are higher in terms of the growth of proﬁtability of activities and provision of educational and laboratory premises.

Specialized universities have achieved an increase in the indicators of the publication activity of academic staff and the internationalization of the student body. Among the negative trends, a decrease in the passing score of the USE in medical universities, as well as in the equipment of teaching and laboratory facilities of medical and sports universities, was revealed.

The highest growth in the publication activity of SPW was observed in national research universities (24.5%), and in the internationalization of the student body - in federal universities (33.3%).

Changes in the operating conditions of universities during a pandemic are likely to have an ambiguous effect on the analyzed indicators in subsequent periods. For their adequate assessment, it may be necessary to adjust the methodology for calculating indicators of the activity of higher education institutions, taking into account their intensive use of distance learning technologies.
On the Global International Comparison of GDP for Reference Year 2017
Authors: Ivanov Yu. N. , Khomenko T. A.
Published: February 2021

The article outlines main results of global international comparison of GDP on purchasing power parities (PPPs) for 2017 published by the World Bank in July 2020. This comparison is the project of international statistics, which secures unique data on the world economy, on the place of countries in the world and regional economies, on standards of living in different countries, on differences between purchasing power parities and exchange rates, and so forth. These data are of interest to the government in relation to the development of economic policy. This comparison required collaboration between the World Bank as the overall project coordinator, regional coordinators and statistical offices producing baseline data on GDP in national currency.

In the body of the article, the authors consistently consider the following issues: the basic methodology used in the International Comparison Program, main ﬁndings, limitations and the degree of reliability of the results of the international global comparisons. In this context issues of methodology of comparison and features of direct binary and multilateral comparisons are considered, in particular the formula for the computation of PPPs, which ensures transitivity (mutual consistency of results).

The article concludes by emphasizing the multifaceted tasks of the International Comparison Program based on purchasing power parities, led by the World Bank.
Geography and Statistics: On the Anniversary of the Russian Geographical Society
Authors: Zavarina E. S.
Published: February 2021

The article is dedicated to the anniversary of the Russian Geographical Society (RGS), primarily to the interaction between geography and statistics. The author examined in detail the evolution and stages of this interaction, noting that since its foundation, despite all the political storms, the Society has not ceased its activities, preserved continuity and traditions established by its founders.

The article opens with the analysis of the historical background and economic prerequisites for the foundation of geographical societies worldwide. The author gives a detailed account of the founding history of the Russian Geographical Society (following in the footsteps of France, Germany and England), focusing on trials and tribulations that accompanied the foundation and naming of the Society. The author provides biographical information on statesmen and scholars who are founders and organizers of the RGS, describes the functions speciﬁed in the Charter. One of the four branches in the structure of the RGS was the department «Statistics», which allowed the author in the following sections to consider the interaction between statistics and geography.

A separate section of the article addresses the historical relationship between geography and statistics, which has resulted in the development of a methodological and analytical tool for management decision-making on social and economic development of countries and regions. The article also describes a new direction of scientiﬁc activity in the world «Regional science», combining a multitude of sciences into its research, including statistics, economic geography and demography. In conclusion, in the twentieth century, statistics and geography were within the same scientiﬁc discipline, complementing and enriching one another and giving an impetus to social development.

The article concludes with information on the celebration of the 175th anniversary of the Russian Geographical Society in the Russian Federation and prospects for the development of a modern public organization.
Editorial
Authors: Silva Glaydson José da , Francisco Gilberto da Silva
Published: February 2021

Editorial
Comparative Approach to Interaction of Zinc Dication with Theobromine and Theophilline-A DFT Treatment
Authors: Türker Lemi
Published: February 2021

Two isomeric methylxanthines, theobromine and theophilline, and their Zn+2 containing composites are considered within the restrictions of density functional theory (B3LYP/ 6-31++G(d,p)). Certain quantum chemical, thermodynamic and spectral data have been harvested, compared and interpreted. The results revealed that theophilline+Zn+2 system is thermodynamically more exothermic, more favorable and electronically stable compared to the analogous system, theobromine+Zn+2.
The Robots with soul and the use of the ontologies in the human-robot communication
Authors: Mogoș Elena , Dumitriu Luminiţa
Published: February 2021

Robots with soul become an important field of robotics and have several issues. An interesting issue is their ability to perceive human emotions differently as the human brain. In order to recognize the human emotions a robot with soul needs to focus on Artificial Intelligence and an Artificial Neural Network, recognizing the words, the languages and the specific patterns and identifying the context and the user’s intention. In this work we propose a robot with soul, which uses an emotional ontology – based Artificial Neural Network, created in Matlab 2019, offering to the humans more privacy, a personalized conversation and a new emotion’s achievement.
Antioxidant and phenolic constituents of Hypoxis Colchicifolia
Authors: Suggessan Moodley , Depika Dwarka , Himansu Baijnath , Mellem John
Published: February 2021

Hypoxis colchicifolia is extensively used in traditional medicine in Southern Africa. Providing a rationale and indicating the toxicity of the plant is essential for its future use as a natural therapeutic agent. In this study H. colchicifolia corm and leaf extracts were qualitatively assessed for phytochemical constituents and total phenolic content. The antioxidant potential of the extracts was evaluated using the 1,1-Diphenyl-2- picryl-hydrazyl assay, 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazolline)-6-sulfonic acid assay, phosphomolybdenum assay, cupric ion reducing capacity assay and the ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. All extracts indicated the presence of key phytochemical constituents and no toxicity. The extracts showed good antioxidant potential against various free radicals. Most extracts exhibited a lower IC50 than that of the positive control (rutin) against free radicals, thus indicating the good antioxidant potential of the extracts. The extracts of leaves and corms cannot be used interchangeably due to differences in the phytochemical composition. Acetone and methanol extracts show the most favorable results demonstrating the solvents’ effectiveness in the phytochemical extraction of H. colchicifolia. The study also sheds light on the use of H. colchicifolia leaves as a natural alternative, which has not been previously explored. The H. colchicifolia extracts exhibit promising antioxidant potential, validating their use as a tonic for good health.
Violencia intrafamiliar versus acoso laboral a los trabajadores del GAD Parroquial de Shell
Authors: Andrade-Santamaría Danilo Rafael , Velázquez Manuel Ricardo , Calles-Quinaluiza Jocelyne Leonela , Castro-Fiallos José Luis
Published: February 2021

El objetivo general de la presente investigación es difundir mediante charlas a los trabajadores del GAD Parroquial de Shell acerca de la violencia intrafamiliar y la figura del acoso laboral. Metodológicamente fue de tipo descriptiva, la muestra poblacional estuvo conformada por 20 trabajadores. Se ha determinado que el 65% de los trabajadores desconocen que el Código de Trabajo reconoce la figura del acoso laboral, el 75% de los trabajadores si han denunciado violencia intrafamiliar. La violencia en cualquiera de sus formas es, sin lugar a duda, la expresión más cruda del ejercicio del poder: el hombre sobre la mujer, el adulto de ambos sexos sobre los niños y niñas, el rico sobre el pobre y en general el fuerte sobre el débil, las sociedades humanas han tratado de regular, mediante la promulgación de leyes, el ejercicio arbitrario de la violencia, fundamentalmente con el fin de proteger a los más vulnerables.
Compensación económica ante el retiro voluntario del Servidor Público
Authors: Macías-Bermúdez Jorge Manuel , Gonzabay-Medina Guisella Fernanda
Published: February 2021

El objetivo de la investigación es determinar la incidencia de la compra de renuncia con indemnización en el ejercicio de los derechos constitucionales de los servidores públicos en la República de Ecuador, por cuanto los derechos consagrados en materia laboral se ven vulnerados con esta figura jurídica inconstitucional. De tipo descriptivo, con enfoque cuantitativo, descriptiva de campo no experimental, cuya estrategia metodológica fue sistematizada mediante el análisis sintético con el cual es posible realizar un examen de la situación actual, que presentan los servidores del estado. apoyada en la revisión y análisis documental de las diferentes leyes y normas en materia laboral, se aplicó una encuesta constituida por 5 interrogantes a un grupo de 15 docentes jubilados de la Universidad Estatal de Milagro, cuyo resultado arrojó que son vulnerados los derechos de los servidores públicos, lo que conspira contra la estabilidad laboral y el derecho al buen vivir.
La Mediación como solución de conflictos en el sistema escolar de la unidad educativa Babahoyo
Authors: Del Pozo-Franco Patty , Lynch-Becilla Kevin Marcos
Published: February 2021

La investigación tiene como objetivo analizar la eficacia de la Ley de Arbitraje y Mediación, en el sistema escolar de Unidad Educativa Babahoyo(UEB). Se desarrolló bajo el enfoque cuantitativo de tipo descriptiva, de campo no experimental, teniendo como población los miembros de la comunidad educativa de Babahoyo, se aplicó el procedimiento de muestreo aleatorio esterificado por afijación proporcional obteniendo lo siguiente: estudiantes 494, padres de familia 466, docentes 22 y administrativo 2, constituyendo así la muestra, a los cuales  se procedió a aplicar la encuesta conformada por  un cuestionario de 10 preguntas, se eligió como técnica el análisis documental y la encuesta. Se sugiere que, para la promoción de un ambiente favorable en la unidad educativa, se bebe divulgar una adecuada interpretación del alcance del Artículo 52 de la Ley de Arbitraje y Mediación, así como promover su modificación y creación de un centro de mediación.
El estado de embriaguez y su incidencia en los accidentes de tránsito
Authors: Cruz-Piza Iyo Alexis , Pozo-Lucio Jefferson Andrés , Gómez-Naranjo Víctor Leonel
Published: February 2021

El alcohol, es uno de los trascendentales elementos que contribuyen a las contravenciones de tránsito en Ecuador y el mundo, principalmente ocasionando lesiones y muertes. El objetivo de esta investigación es fundamentar jurídica y doctrinariamente el significado de los accidentes de tránsito a causa del estado de embriaguez de los conductores. Se realizó una revisión de las normas y estadísticas de los hechos ocasionados por este flagelo. Se apoya la presente indagación en la descripción documental que contribuye al análisis de diversas entidades observables en la realidad. Con un diseño bibliográfico contribuyó. Así mismo se empleó el método analítico sintético nos permite analizar los fenómenos y causas. Se obtuvo una de muestra de 21 personas, a los cuales se les administró un cuestionario. En conclusión, los encuestados ratifican que la mayor parte de accidentes de tránsito se dan por ingerir alcohol, y no existe control por parte de los agentes de tránsito.
Despido Ineficaz y Protección al derecho al trabajo a grupos prioritarios
Authors: Ochoa-Díaz Cesar Eduardo , Guerrero-Alarcón Fabiana Nicole , Cepeda-Cando Dennis Gisell
Published: February 2021

La investigación tiene por objetivo analizar el despido Ineficaz y Protección al derecho al trabajo a grupos prioritarios en el Ecuador. Se trabajó metodológicamente en función de un tipo descriptiva documental. En virtud de que el trabajador o trabajadora, exige estabilidad laboral, por cuanto el despido acarrea conflictos personales, económicos, entre otros. Cabe señalar que para exigir la institución jurídica del despido ineficaz el trabajador deberá cumplir con los requisitos solicitados en la ley. El procedimiento del derecho ineficaz es un procedimiento abreviado, es decir que tiene que solicitar dentro de los treinta días de haberse producido el despido, este mismo requisito debe ser exigido a las personas discapacitadas, personas víctimas de accidentes laborales que necesitan reintegrarse al mismo trabajo, personas mayores adultas, grupo LGTBI, a fin de no manejarse con criterios distintos, por lo que es necesario; la reforma en el texto legal.
Violencia Intrafamiliar durante el período de confinamiento por pandemia COVID-19
Authors: Colcha-Ramos Laura Alicia , Córdova-Requena Letty Elizabeth , Salguero-Abarca Erika Guadalupe
Published: February 2021

La investigación tiene por objetivo principal analizar la violencia Intrafamiliar durante el período de confinamiento por pandemia covid-19 en la ciudad de Riobamba – Ecuador. De carácter metodológico descriptivo con diseño bibliográfico no experimental. Se identificaron un total de 1695 atenciones relacionadas con casos de violencia intra familiar. Se puede evidenciar que la pandemia por COVID-19, ha generado que varias familias pierdan el trabajo, dando así a que los estudiantes no puedan acceder a la educación porque no cuentan con los medios suficientes, debido a que sus padres no gozan de un trabajo estable y los problemas en el hogar son diariamente siendo más propensos a que sufran de violencia intrafamiliar.