bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accelerated Adaptive Backstepping Control of the Chaotic MEMS Gyroscope by Using the Type-2 Sequential FNN
Authors: Zhao Le , Luo Shao hua , Yang Guan ci , Li Jun yang
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we propose an accelerated adaptive backstepping control algorithm based on the type2 sequential fuzzy neural network (T2SFNN) for the microelectromechanical system (MEMS) gyroscope with deadzone and constraints. Firstly, the mathematical model of the MEMS gyroscope is established to perform dynamical analyses and controller design. Then, the phase diagrams and Lyapunov exponents are presented to reveal its chaotic oscillation, which is harmful to system stability. In order to suppress oscillations derived from chaos and deadzone, an accelerated adaptive backstepping controller is proposed wherein an adaptive auxiliary is established to compensate the influence of nonsymmetric deadzone on stability performance, along with the T2SFNN designed to approximate unknown functions of dynamic systems. Furthermore, the speed function is introduced to accelerate convergence speed of the control system, and the problem of complex term explosion in traditional backstepping is successfully solved by a secondorder tracking differentiator. Finally, simulation results show that the proposed control scheme can guarantee asymptotic convergence of all signals in the closedloop system, as well as satisfying states constraints and fulfilling the purposes of chaos suppression and accelerated convergence.
Familia cubana transnacional: imágenes digitales en red y relaciones de poder en el espacio público de las ntic
Authors: Bermudez Arboleda Patricia , Toledo Leyva Yoanna
Published: March 2021

Este artículo hace un acercamiento a las relaciones de socialización de una familia cubana transnacional en contextos virtuales públicos como Facebook e Instagram, a partir del análisis de las imágenes digitales que publican e intercambian en su cotidianidad. De forma paralela se exploran las dinámicas de vigilancia, control y resistencia que emergen desde esta institución primaria, en un contexto marcado por el fenómeno migratorio de múltiples destinos y el uso de las nuevas tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (ntic), en las que el hacer y el trasiego de imágenes desborda los límites tradicionales de la Era Analógica.
El uso de las tecnologías de la información y comunicación en la formación en Trabajo Social: una aventura apasionante.
Authors: Bedoya Calvo Isabel Cristina , López Gómez Jenny Marcela
Published: March 2021

Este artículo es producto de la reflexión de las autoras, desde su práctica docente en tiempos de cuarentena por covid-19, mediada por el uso de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación. Se hace referencia a la formación integral como un punto de partida para pensar el proceso socioeducativo; la discusión sobre los vínculos y la intervención profesional; las tendencias sobre intervención en Trabajo Social virtual; los elementos para comprender el uso de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación en la educación; y, por último, se sugieren algunos aprendizajes y desafíos, producto de la revisión de literatura y la experiencia.
Vitamin D deficiency and the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors:   Department of Paediatrics, Paediatric Nephrology and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland, Lipińska-Opałka Agnieszka , Milart Joanna ,   Department of Paediatrics, Paediatric Nephrology and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland, Kubiak Jacek Z. ,   Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Warsaw, Poland,   UnivRennes, UMR 6290, CNRS, Institute of Genetics and Development of Rennes, Cell Cycle Group, Faculty of Medicine, Rennes, France, Kalicki Bolesław ,   Department of Paediatrics, Paediatric Nephrology and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
Published: March 2021

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble steroid hormone. Its main role is to regulate calcium and phosphate levels, which are strictly associated with ossification and bone homeostasis. However, due to the presence of a nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR) in the majority of cells of the human body, vitamin D also displays multiple effects beyond the bones. Calcitriol (1,25(OH)2D) not only affects cell growth and differentiation, but also stimulates the immune system by, for example, modulating the production of IL-4 and IL-5 anti-inflammatory cytokines. High numbers of VDRs have been found on macrophages, dendritic cells and lymphocytes, among other cells, which can be considered a very strong argument for the participation of vitamin D in autoimmune and anti-inflammatory processes. In recent months we have been witnessing the development of the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the most dangerous consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection is acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by the activation of lung macrophages and the so-called cytokine storm. A recent study on COVID-19 patients suggests that vitamin D activates the innate immune response and suppresses the acquired immune response; the resultant decreased cytokine expression can reduce the severity of inflammation associated with COVID-19. Among older children and adults, vitamin D deficiency is widespread and observed worldwide, including in the Polish population. Based on numerous studies, normal serum vitamin D levels were established. Vitamin D concentration below 20 ng/mL is considered deficient and a level between 20 and 30 ng/mL is regarded as suboptimal. An optimal vitamin D concentration is 30–50 ng/mL.
Diagnosis of secondary osteoporosis – long-term observations in children with myelomeningocele and cerebral palsy
Authors:   Department of Paediatrics, Newborn Pathology and Bone Metabolic Diseases, Medical University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland, Jakubowska-Pietkiewicz Elżbieta , Woźniak Elżbieta ,   Department of Paediatrics, Newborn Pathology and Bone Metabolic Diseases, Medical University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland, Matczak Dominika ,   Maria Konopnicka Paediatric Centre, Central Teaching Hospital of the Medical University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland
Published: March 2021

Background: Cerebral palsy is one of the most common causes of movement disorders in children, whilst myelomeningocele is the most severe form of spina bifida. Both motor dysfunctions result in chronic immobilisation that can lead to secondary low bone mass and even osteoporosis. In this context, risk factors for osteoporosis may also include low calcium and vitamin D intake from diet and long-term use of anticonvulsants or glucocorticosteroids. Long-bone and vertebral fractures in the course of secondary osteoporosis in children with significant motor activity limitation deteriorate their quality of life. The aim of the study was to assess the bone mineralisation status and vitamin D concentrations in children and adolescents with motor disabilities in the course of cerebral palsy and myelomeningocele. Materials and methods: We analysed data from medical records of 35 children aged 3–18 years, including 20 children with cerebral palsy and 15 children with lumbar myelomeningocele. Selected parameters of calcium and phosphate metabolism, including serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, and the results of a bone densitometry, using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in two paediatric measurement programs were assessed. Z-score equal to or lower than −2.0 was considered as criterion of low bone mass diagnosis. In 22/35 children the indications for diagnostics was motor disability (mainly) as well as long-bone and/or vertebral fractures. Results: Low bone mass was diagnosed in 27/35 evaluated patients, while osteoporosis in 16/32 patients. Vitamin D concentration not exceeding 30 ng/mL was found in 21/35 (60%) children. Conclusions: Measurements of bone mineral density in children with motor disabilities should be included in multidisciplinary medical care. In this group of patients the vitamin D in doses depending on its serum concentration may be used either prophylactically – before bone fracture – or curatively – after being diagnosed with osteoporosis.
Parapharyngeal lipoma mimicking parotid tumour in a 4-year-old boy
Authors:   Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, 16150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia, Abdullah Siti Nazira ,   Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Malacca General Hospital, Jalan Mufti Haji Khalil, 75400, Malacca, Malaysia, Karaf Juani Hayyan Abdul ,   Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Malacca General Hospital, Jalan Mufti Haji Khalil, 75400, Malacca, Malaysia, Ramanna Vijayaprakash Rao A/L ,   Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Malacca General Hospital, Jalan Mufti Haji Khalil, 75400, Malacca, Malaysia, Momin Najah ,   Department of Pathology, Malacca General Hospital, Jalan Mufti Haji Khalil, 75400, Malacca, Malaysia, Mohamad Irfan ,   Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, 16150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Published: March 2021

Parapharyngeal space tumour is rare in paediatrics. It can either be a primary tumour arising from parapharyngeal space structures, an extension from the surrounding structures or a metastatic tumour. In adults, salivary gland tumours and paragangliomas are common, while neurogenic tumours predominate in paediatrics. The delicate anatomy in the parapharyngeal space makes the diagnostic procedures more complex, especially in paediatrics. Although tissue biopsy can be obtained under sedation or local anaesthesia, it is histologically difficult to differentiate lipoma from liposarcoma. We present a paediatric case with a large parapharyngeal space mass in a 4-year-old boy and the management used.
Simultaneous bilateral peritonsillar abscess in an adolescent
Authors:   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar, Jalan Rasah, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, Malik Muhammad Fawwaz Meor Abdul , Saniasiaya Jeyasakthy ,   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Jalan Universiti, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Gani Norhaslinda Abdul ,   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar, Jalan Rasah, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Published: March 2021

Aim of the study: The aim of this case report is to emphasise the importance of meticulous history-taking and examination, and to raise the awareness of various possibilities of diagnosis and management. Unilateral peritonsillar abscess is a common complication of acute bacterial tonsillitis. However, bilateral peritonsillar abscess is considered rare, and only a meagre number of cases has been reported to date in the English medical literature. The challenging part involved in the diagnosis of bilateral peritonsillar abscess is the absence of common physical findings of unilateral peritonsillar abscess. Case report: We present a case of a teenage girl who presented with a history of worsening sore throat, odynophagia and muffled voice, which turned out to be bilateral peritonsillar abscess. Oropharyngeal examination revealed bilateral peritonsillar fullness, and pus was aspirated bilaterally. The patient underwent bilateral peritonsillar incision and drainage, and was discharged well after a few days, with no recurrence. Bilateral peritonsillar abscess can present with usual symptoms, but physical findings may vary. Conclusion: Proper history-taking and meticulous physical examination may direct the physician towards correct diagnosis, and an imaging evaluation is warranted if in doubt, so as to avoid unwanted perilous complications.
Differentiating sepsis from similar groups of symptoms at triage level in emergency care
Authors: Molnár G. , Gyarmathy V. A. , Takács J. , Sándor S. , Kiss B. , Fazakas J. , Kanizsai P. L.
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Conditions that have similar initial presentations as sepsis may make early recognition of sepsis in an emergency room (ER) difficult. We investigated whether selected physiologic and metabolic parameters can be reliably used in the emergency department to differentiate sepsis from other disease states that mimic it, such as dehydration and stroke.

Methods

Loess regression on retrospective follow-up chart data of patients with sepsis-like symptoms (N = 664) aged 18+ in a large ER in Hungary was used to visualize/identify cutoff points for sepsis risk. A multivariate logistic regression model based on standard triage data was constructed with its corresponding receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and compared with another model constructed based on current sepsis guidelines.

Results

Age, bicarbonate, HR, lactate, pH, and body temperature had U, V, W, or reverse U-shaped associations with identifiable inflexion points, but the cutoff values we identified were slightly different from guideline cutoff values. In contrast to the guidelines, no inflexion points could be observed for the association of sepsis with SBP, DPB, MAP, and RR and therefore were treated as continuous variables. Compared to the guidelines-based model, the triage data-driven final model contained additional variables (age, pH, bicarbonate) and did not include lactate. The data-driven model identified about 85% of sepsis cases correctly, while the guidelines-based model identified only about 70% of sepsis cases correctly.

Conclusion

Our findings contribute to the growing body of evidence for the necessity of finding improved tools to identify sepsis at early time points, such as in the ER.
Hydrodynamic assessment of combined sewerage overflow chamber in Banská Bystrica
Authors: Šutúš Marek , Hrudka Jaroslav , Rózsa Gergély , Škultétyová Ivona , Stanko Štefan
Published: March 2021

This research deals with creating a hydrodynamic combined sewerage overflow chamber model an ANSYS Workbench 19.2, Fluid Flow (Fluent). The 3D graphics model was created in the SpaceClaim modeling software, which serves as the basis for hydrodynamic modeling. The model was created according to a real combined sewerage overflow chamber in Banská Bystrica. The cores of the work are simulations that should correspond to the estimated flow in the combined sewerage overflow chamber. The aim of this paper is to compare the impact of inflow speed and flow rakes.
Modernization imposed: SOM’s practice in China – A case study of Wuhan
Authors: Tu Kangwei , Reith Andras
Published: March 2021

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Limited Liability Partnership as one of the best ‘localized’ overseas design companies in China, has participated in more than ten large-scale urban design projects in Wuhan, which has greatly changed the urban image and architectural style of Wuhan. Its space model of ‘grid road system + high-rise building’ replaces the traditional urban pattern of ‘street + residence’, causing huge cultural conflicts and historical rupture. Based on the planning of Wuhan Hanzheng street as an example, this paper attempts to uncover the cause of formation, the motivation mechanism of ‘grid road system + high-rise buildings’ space model, and to explore how Chinese cities realize the urban modernization with Chinese characteristics.
Effect of intercropping alfalfa on physiological and biochemical parameters of young grapevine plants cultivated on agricultural and contaminated soils
Authors: JEDER Sabrine , NOUAIRI Issam , MELKI Fadwa , CHEBIL Samir , LOUATI Faten , MHADHBI Haythem , ZRIBI Kais
Published: March 2021

Our research aimed to reveal the capacity of intercropping with Medicago sativa-rhizobia in the amelioration of grapevine growth in agricultural and a Cd/Pb contaminated soils. A local variety of grapevine was cultivated in monocropping and in intercropping with Medicago sativa inoculated or not with its associated rhizobia. Intercropping with alfalfa induced a significant increase in shoot and root biomass of grapevine in the agricultural soil. However, in the contaminated soil, a slight increase in root biomass was observed. Concerning photosynthesis apparatus, we showed that the presence of Cd and Pb in the soil induced a significant decrease in both CO2 assimilation rate and stomatal conductance. Interestingly, intercropping with alfalfa only and with rhizobia alleviate this effect. Similar results are obtained for chlorophyll and carotenoid content. This was associated with a significant decrease in the malondialdehyde level in leaves and roots of grapevine cultivated in intercropping with alfalfa with and without inoculation in the two soils as compared the monoculture treatment. Comparison between treatments revealed also that intercropping with alfalfa induced a decrease in the activities of some enzymes implicated in the defence to the oxidative stress such as catalase and superoxide dismutase. Regarding soluble protein content, it is needed to signal the improvement of this parameter with the intercropping system in the contaminated soil when compared to the monocropping treatment. This work highlights the importance of the use of legumes in intercropping with grapevine as intercrop plant non-competitive for soil nutrient and proving N supply for associated plants.
Changes in plant growth, leaf relative water content and physiological traits in response to salt stress in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) varieties
Authors: MEGUEKAM Tekam L. , MOUALEU Dany P. , TAFFOUO Victor D. , STÜTZEL Hartmut
Published: March 2021

Salinity is the main environmental factor accountable for decreasing crop productivity worldwide. The effects of NaCl salinity on plant growth (leaf relative water content (RWC), leaf dry weight (LDW), shoot length (SL), number of leaves (NL), number of branches (NB) and total leaf area (TLA) and physiological characteristics (stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (TR), net photosynthetic (Pn), yield of photosystem II (ΦPsII) and the intercellular CO2 concentration (CO2int) in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) varieties (‘Vanda’, ‘P244601’ and ‘Pl184948’, widely used in Cameroon, Tanzania and Ghana, respectively, were investigated under hydroponic condition. Plants were subjected to four levels of NaCl (0, 40, 80 and 120 mM) at early seedling growth stage of plant development. Application of NaCl treatment led to a significant decrease in LDW, SL, NL, TLA, Pn, gs, TR and CO2int concentration of ‘Vanda’ and ‘P244601’ compared to untreated plants while the plant growth inhibition was notably noted at 120 mM NaCl in ‘P1184948’ for LDW, SL and NB. The highest depressive effect was detected in gs of salt-sensitive ‘Vanda’ while the lowest were recorded in gs of salt-tolerant ‘P1184948’ at high salinity level. Enhanced NaCl concentrations led to a significant increase in ΦPSII of ‘P1184948’ compared to ‘Vanda’, ‘P244601’ and untreated plants. Leaf CHL content was significantly increased in moderately-tolerant ‘‘P244601’ and salt-tolerant ‘P1184948’ at 80 mM NaCl compared to salt sensitive ‘Vanda’ and untreated plants. The depressive effect of salt on RWC was recorded at 120 mM NaCl in peanut leaves of all varieties. Under salt stress ‘P1184948’ was observed to have relatively higher tolerance on average of all growth and physiological traits than ‘Vanda’ and P244601’ suggesting that it could be grown in salt-affected soils.
Spermidine priming promotes germination of deteriorated seeds and reduced salt stressed damage in rice seedlings
Authors: THEERAKULPISUT Piyada , NOUNJAN Noppawan , KUMON-SA Netnapit
Published: March 2021

Deterioration of seeds is an important problem leading to low germination and uneven crop establishment causing poor crop growth and productivity. Soil salinity is another factor limiting crop cultivation. Spermidine (Spd) is a compound widely reported for diminishing adverse effects of salt stress in plants. In this study, the effects of Spd priming on normal and deteriorated rice seeds were investigated under salt stress during germination and young seedling stages. Rice seeds were primed with H2O and Spd solutions for 24 h before germination. All rice seeds were grown in Petri dishes containing 5 ml of deionized water with 0 (control) or 150 mM NaCl (salt treatment) for 1-10 d. The results showed that priming groups had higher germination percentage (GP) and germination index (GI) in both normal and deteriorated seeds. Moreover, deteriorated seeds primed with 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mM Spd showed significantly higher GP and GI than H2O-primed and non-primed seeds. During early hours of hydration, Spd-primed seeds produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) faster and at higher level than non-priming and H2O priming groups in both control and saline conditions. Earlier accumulation of ROS was associated with more rapid germination. In young seedlings, salinity stress caused a marked decrease in growth and increased membrane damage indicated by higher malondialdehyde (MDA) and electrolyte leakage (EL). Conversely, Spd priming increased growth and reduced membrane damage of rice seedlings established from normal and deteriorated seeds under salt stress. The finding suggested that Spd priming can effectively improve germination of deteriorated seeds and enhance seedling growth under control and salt stress conditions.
Morphometric analysis and sequence related amplified polymorphism determine genetic diversity in Salvia species
Authors: SHAKOOR Abdul , ZHAO Fang , ZAIB Gul , LI Wuyang , LAN Xincan , ESFANDANI-BOZCHALOYI Somayeh
Published: March 2021

Salvia species is a member of the Lamiaceae family, and it also possesses medicinal and horticulture values. The genetic diversity was assessed through sequence-related amplified polymorphism. To uncover genetic diversity and species characteristics in Salvia species were studied through a combination of morphological and molecular data. One hundred forty-five individuals related to 30 Salvia were collected in 18 provinces. A total of 157 (Number of total loci) (NTL) DNA bands were produced through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from 30 Salvia species. These bands were produced with the combinations of 10 selective primers. The total number of amplified fragments ranged from 10 to 20. The predicted unbiased heterozygosity (H) varied between 0.11 (Salvia urmiensis) and 0.31 (Salvia limbata). High Shannon’s information index was detected in Salvia limbata. The genetic similarities between 30 species are estimated from 0.46 to 0.91. Clustering results showed two major clusters. According to the SRAP (Sequence-related amplified polymorphism) markers analysis, Salvia hydrangea and Salvia sharifii had the lowest similarity. Salvia bracteata and Salvia suffruticosa were genetically dissimilar to each other. This study also detected a significant signature of isolation by distance. Present results showed that sequence-related amplified polymorphism has the potential to decipher genetic affinity between Salvia species. Current results have implications in biodiversity and conservation programs. Besides this, present results could pave the way for selecting suitable ecotypes for forage and pasture purposes in Iran.
Germination and growth of radish under influence of nipplewort aqueous extracts
Authors: MOŻDŻEŃ Katarzyna , BARABASZ-KRASNY Beata , STACHURSKA-SWAKOŃ Alina , TURISOVÁ Ingrid , ZANDI Peiman
Published: March 2021

The conducted experiment was aimed at determining the effect of aqueous extracts from dry roots and shoots of common weed nipplewort (Lapsana communis L. subsp. communis) on seeds germination and early growth of radish (Raphanus sativus L. var. radicula Pers.), cultivars ‘Rowa’, ‘Krakowianka’, ‘Półdługa’. The experiment was carried out in the form of Petri dishes tests with 3 different percentage concentrations of extracts (1%, 3% and 5%, respectively). The germination indexes used here revealed that the germination capacity of the radish seeds was significantly inhibited by extracts from the roots and shoots of L. communis subsp. communis. The elongation growth of radish roots and hypocotyls was stimulated to a higher percentage by extracts from nipplewort roots than by extracts from shoots. The fresh and dry mass of the radish seedlings depended on the type (roots/shoots) and concentration of the extract as well as the radish cultivar. The electrolyte leakage was the highest in seedlings watered with 5% extract of nipplewort shoots. The cultivar most sensitive to nipplewort extracts turned out to be ‘Półdługa’, and the least sensitive was ‘Rowa’. The response of radish seeds to nipplewort extracts is probably due to the presence of allelochemical compounds and their synergistic interaction.
Physiological responses of mycorrhizal symbiosis to drought stress in white clover
Authors: LIANG Sheng-Min , JIANG Dao-Ju , XIE Miao-Miao , ZOU Ying-Ning , WU Qiang-Sheng , KUČA Kamil
Published: March 2021

The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of two arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), Funneliformis mosseae and Paraglomus occultum, on leaf water status, root morphology, root sugar accumulation, root abscisic acid (ABA) levels, root malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and root antioxidant enzyme activities in white clover (Trifolium repens L.) exposed to well-watered (WW) and drought stress (DS) conditions. The results showed that root colonization by F. mosseae and P. occultum was significantly decreased by 7-week soil drought treatment. Under drought stress conditions, mycorrhizal fungal treatment considerably stimulated root total length, surface area and volume, as compared with non-mycorrhizal controls. In addition, inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi also increased leaf relative water content and accelerated the accumulation of root glucose and fructose under drought stress. Mycorrhizal plants under drought stress registered higher activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) and ABA levels in roots, while lower MDA contents, relative to non-mycorrhizal plants. As a result, mycorrhiza-inoculated plants represented better physiological activities (e.g. antioxidant defense systems, root morphology, and sugar accumulation) than non-inoculated plants in response to soil drought, whilst P. occultum had superior effects than F. mosseae.
Vegetative propagation and ex-situ conservation of Acantholimon androsaceum and Limonium chersonesum, two promising local endemics of Crete (Greece) available for floricultural and pharmaceutical sustainable exploitation
Authors: GRIGORIADOU Katerina , KRIGAS Nikos , SARROPOULOU Virginia , MALOUPA Eleni , TSOKTOURIDIS Georgios
Published: March 2021

The continual search for new attractive ornamentals and innovative natural medicinal products is the main focus of floricultural and pharmaceutical industries worldwide. Aiming to introduce two new Cretan endemic species in the commercial trade, Acantholimon androsaceum (Jaub. & Spach) Boiss. and Limonium chersonesum Erben & Brullo (Plumbaginaceae) have been selected in the current study. These were derived from a total of 223 local endemic species and subspecies of Crete, which constitute an exceptional wild treasure of the Mediterranean flora. Prior to any commercialization, efficient massive propagation protocols are required. Although sexual propagation using seeds collected from the wild was unsuccessful for these two taxa, the results of vegetative propagation experiments were satisfactory. Wild plant material was used for cuttings in order to develop a reasonable and homogenous number of stock mother plants for propagation trials. As a result of experiments conducted in the current research, two vegetative propagation protocols were developed, which could be used commercially for the massive production of elite clonal plants of A. androsaceum and L. chersonesum. These protocols provide 71.43% successful rooting for A. androsaceum within 40 days, using 2000 ppm IBA, and 80.95% rooting for L. chersonesum within 30 days, using 1000 ppm IBA. This study is part of a strategy and research methodology aiming at the selection of new, rare and endemic native industrial crops for the ornamental and pharmaceutical sector, exploiting sustainably the rich phytogenetic resources of Crete.
La Exposición como Sustrato para la Educación Ambiental de un Museo de Historia Natural
Authors: Rodríguez Iván Borroto , Campos Marília Andrade Torales
Published: March 2021

Resumen: Este artículo discute la presentación del medio ambiente y sus problemas en la exposición del museo de historia natural, así como analiza la presentación del medio ambiente y de problemas ambientales en el caso particular de la exposición del Museu Oceanográfico Univali, de Balneário de Piçarras, estado de Santa Catarina, en Brasil, como substrato para la educación ambiental de sus públicos. Para tal propósito, se desarrolló una investigación en el marco del paradigma cualitativo-interpretativo. Como resultado fue posible identificar a la exposición como una acción de educación ambiental de carácter conservacionista en el marco de un abordaje conductista.
CLIMA ÁULICO EN LA ESCUELA SECUNDARIA DE LA CIUDAD DE MAR DEL PLATA
Authors: Pompa Juan Pablo Paneiva , Bakker Liliana , Rubiales Josefina
Published: March 2021

RESUMEN El presente trabajo analiza el Clima Áulico en instituciones educativas de nivel secundario de la ciudad de Mar del Plata. La muestra estuvo conformada por 40 grupos Áulicos de nivel secundario básico de cuatro instituciones educativas de la ciudad de Mar del Plata (998 estudiantes, 37 docentes y 39 preceptores). Para evaluar el Clima Áulico se utilizó la Escala de Clima Social Escolar (Classroom Environment Scale, CES) desarrollada por Moos y Tricket. Los resultados señalan un Clima Áulico medianamente favorable. Se presentan las fortalezas y debilidades, así también como las diferencias entre docentes, preceptores y estudiantes. Se resalta la importancia del rol de los preceptores en las instituciones educativas. Se espera que los resultados posibiliten futuras líneas de investigación en el diseño de programas de intervención educativa que favorezcan un Clima Áulico positivo.
A emergência da nova variante P.1 do SARS-CoV-2 no Amazonas (Brasil) foi temporalmente associada a uma mudança no perfil da mortalidade devido a COVID-19, segundo sexo e idade
Authors: Freitas Andre Ricardo Ribas , Beckedorff Otto Albuquerque , Cavalcanti Luciano Pamplona de Góes , Siqueira Andre M , Castro Daniel Barros de , Costa Cristiano Fernandes da , Lemos Daniele Rocha Queiróz , Barros Eliana N C
Published: March 2021

Introdução
Desde o final de 2020 tem havido grande preocupação internacional com as variantes do SARS-COV-2: B.1.1.7, identificada no Reino Unido; B.1.351, descoberta na África do Sul e P.1, que emergiu inicialmente estado brasileiro do Amazonas. As três variantes foram associadas a aumento na transmissibilidade e piora da situação epidemiológica nos locais onde se expandiram. A linhagem B.1.1.7 foi associada ao aumento da taxa de letalidade no Reino Unido. Ainda não existem estudos conclusivos sobre letalidade das outras duas variantes. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o perfil de mortalidade antes e depois da emergência da linhagem P.1 no Amazonas.
Métodos
Analisamos os dados do sistema nacional de vigilância epidemiológica, comparando dois momentos epidemiológicos distintos: durante o pico da primeira onda, entre abril e maio de 2020, e em janeiro de 2021, mês em que a nova variante passou a predominar. Calculamos as taxas de mortalidade, letalidade e letalidade entre pacientes internados, todas as taxas foram calculadas por idade e por sexo e determinados os intervalos de confiança de 95%.
Achados
Observamos que na segunda onda houve maior incidência e aumento na proporção de casos de COVID-19 nas faixas etárias mais jovens. Observou-se, também, um aumento na proporção de mulheres entre os casos de SARI de 40% (2.709) na primeira onda para 47% (2.898) na segunda onda e entre mortes por COVID-19 de 34% (1,051) para 47% (1.724), respectivamente. Além disso, a proporção de mortes entre 20 e 59 anos aumentou em ambos os sexos. A letalidade entre os hospitalizados na população entre 20 e 39 anos durante a segunda onda foi 2.7 vezes a primeira onda [razão de taxas sexo feminino=2,71; CI(95%)=1,9-3,9], p<0.0001; razão de taxas sexo masculino=2.70(2.0-3.7)), na população geral as razões de taxa foram 1,15(1,1-1,2) no sexo feminino e 0,78(0,7-0,8) no sexo masculino.
Interpretação
Observamos mudanças no padrão de mortalidade por COVID-19 entre as faixas etárias e sexo simultaneamente à emergência da linhagem P.1, sugerindo mudanças nos perfis de patogenicidade e virulência, novos estudos são necessários para melhor compreensão das variantes do SARS-CoV-2 e suas consequências na saúde da população.
Strategyproof Mechanisms for Additively Separable and Fractional Hedonic Games
Authors: Flammini Michele , Kodric Bojana , Monaco Gianpiero , Zhang Qiang
Published: March 2021

Additively separable hedonic games and fractional hedonic games have received considerable attention in the literature. They are coalition formation games among selfish agents based on their mutual preferences. Most of the work in the literature characterizes the existence and structure of stable outcomes (i.e., partitions into coalitions) assuming that preferences are given. However, there is little discussion of this assumption. In fact, agents receive different utilities if they belong to different coalitions, and thus it is natural for them to declare their preferences strategically in order to maximize their benefit. In this paper we consider strategyproof mechanisms for additively separable hedonic games and fractional hedonic games, that is, partitioning methods without payments such that utility maximizing agents have no incentive to lie about their true preferences. We focus on social welfare maximization and provide several lower and upper bounds on the performance achievable by strategyproof mechanisms for general and specific additive functions. In most of the cases we provide tight or asymptotically tight results. All our mechanisms are simple and can be run in polynomial time. Moreover, all the lower bounds are unconditional, that is, they do not rely on any computational complexity assumptions.
Real-time traffic state predictor based on dynamic traveller behaviour
Authors: Xu Tiandong , Guan Jinping , Hao Yuan , Sun Daniel (Jian)
Published: March 2021

Real-time traffic state prediction is a crucial component of the practical applications of and existing theoretical research on active traffic management (ATM) systems. Dynamic traveller behaviour is a key factor of the complexity of traffic state prediction under information provision. The aim of this study is to consider the influence of travellers’ route-switching behaviour (TRSB) on traffic state prediction for accurate network traffic prediction under information provision. A realistic TRSB model and dynamic traveller behaviour combined with a macroscopic dynamic traffic flow model framework for information-based ATM are proposed. Accordingly, this work establishes an integrated realistic TRSB with traffic state prediction model under the state–space model framework and an extended Kalman filtering solving algorithm. The experimental results on the road network of the traffic guidance demonstration projects reveal that the proposed model can accurately estimate the drivers’ responses to traffic information and the impact of realistic TRSB on traffic prediction and improve the accuracy of traffic state prediction under information provision. Therefore, considering the influence of dynamic travel behaviour on network traffic state prediction under guidance information is necessary to ensure the sustainability of the information-based ATM system.
Dynamic Econometrics in Action: A Biography of David F. Hendry
Authors: Ericsson Neil R.
Published: March 2021

David Hendry has made–and continues to make–pivotal contributions to the econometrics of empirical economic modeling, economic forecasting, econometrics software, substantive empirical economic model design, and economic policy. This paper reviews his contributions by topic, emphasizing the overlaps between different strands in his research and the importance of real-world problems in motivating that research.
DOĞRUDAN YABANCI YATIRIM ÇIKIŞLARININ DIŞ TİCARET ÜZERİNDEKİ ETKİSİ: PANEL VERİ ANALİZİ
Authors: AYDIN Nur
Published: March 2021

Bu çalışmada doğrudan yabancı yatırım çıkışlarının, ana ülkenin dış ticareti üzerindeki etkisi gelişmiş (ABD, Almanya, Fransa, Hollanda, İngiltere, Japonya, Kanada) ve gelişmekte olan ülkeler (Brezilya, Çin, Güney Afrika, Hindistan, Meksika, Rusya, Türkiye) örneğinde araştırılmıştır. Bu kapsamda çalışma, 1993-2018 dönemi için yatay kesit bağımlılığını göz önünde bulunduran panel veri analiz yöntemleriyle gerçekleştirilmiştir. Analiz sonucunda; bu ülkelerde doğrudan yabancı yatırım çıkışlarındaki %10’luk bir artış ana ülkenin ihracatını %0.8, ithalatını ise %0.5 oranında artırmaktadır. Sonuç olarak gelişmiş ve gelişmekte olan ülkelerde doğrudan yabancı yatırım çıkışları ile ana ülkenin dış ticareti arasında tamamlayıcı bir ilişki vardır. Bu nedenle ülkeler, doğrudan yabancı yatırım çıkışlarını teşvik edici politikalar uygulayabilir.
BEYOND A HEALTH-RELATED ISSUE: SOCIOECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF PATIENT MOBILITY IN TURKEY
Authors: SAN Sayın , DELİL Selman
Published: March 2021

Detecting and explaining patient mobility patterns allows us to better understand linkages between socioeconomic facts. This research aims to reveal variables that affect the patient mobility among cities in Turkey. It considers not only the health–related factors but also socioeconomic, demographic, and geographic variables to analyze the patient mobility. The data covers 40 million external patient admission to health facilities between 2010 and 2013. The most common clinics (cardiology, pediatric, obstetric, and internal diseases) selected to focus on branch level differences. The random effects regression model was used due to the presence of time-invariant variables on the basis of gravity model. There are statistically significant positive relationships between migration and patient mobility for all the clinics studied. The distance between two provinces has a negative impact on patient movements. Statistically significant relationships in patient mobility are observed for all clinics when two provinces are contiguous. It is observed that patients are moving from the low-income provinces to those having higher income. As a result, apart from the health-related variables, socioeconomic, demographic and geographical factors also have a substantial effect on patient mobility. While generalizing the results, it should be kept in mind that a limited number of clinics are studied.
TÜREV ARAÇ KULLANIMINI ETKİLEYEN FİNANSAL FAKTÖRLERİN TESPİTİ: BORSA İSTANBUL UYGULAMASI
Authors: AKIN AKSOY Emine Ebru
Published: March 2021

Firmaların risk yönetiminde kullanabilecekleri en etkili yöntemlerden biri türev araçlardır. Firmaların türev araç kullanımlarının artırılmasında türev araç kullanım kararını etkileyen faktörlerin belirlenmesi büyük öneme sahiptir. Bu çalışmanın amacı firmaların türev araç kullanımlarını etkileyen firmaya özgü finansal faktörlerin tespitidir. Çalışmada Borsa İstanbul’da imalat sanayi sektöründe faaliyet gösteren 176 firmanın 2014:12-2018:12 dönemi verileri kullanılmıştır. Türev araç kullanımını etkilemesi beklenen finansal kaldıraç, cari oran, büyüklük ve aktif karlılığı modele alınmıştır. İkili lojistik regresyon analizinin yapıldığı çalışmanın sonucunda türev araç kullanım kararı büyüklük ile pozitif ve diğer değişkenlerle negatif ilişkiye sahiptir. Elde edilen bulgulara göre likidite düzeyi düşük, büyük ölçekli ve karlılığı düşük olan firmalarda risk yönetiminde türev araçlar etkin bir yöntem olarak kullanılabilir.
DEVELOPING A PURCHASING STRATEGY TAXONOMY BASED ON COMPETITIVE PRIORITIES
Authors: AKIN ATEŞ Melek , WYNSTRA Finn , VAN RAAİJ Erik
Published: March 2021

This exploratory study aims to develop a taxonomy of purchasing strategies at the purchase category level. We define strategies based on competitive priorities, an approach that is common in operations management literature, but very novel in purchasing. Analysing data collected from 318 manufacturing firms in ten countries through the use of cluster analysis, we identify five purchase category strategies: “Emphasise All, Cost Management, Product Innovation, Delivery Reliability, and Emphasise Nothing”. We subsequently investigate how this purchase category strategy taxonomy is related to the Kraljic matrix, a purchasing portfolio model utilised frequently in practice. We find that some strategies are more likely to be implemented in certain quadrants of the matrix but that within each quadrant, it is possible to implement various purchase category strategies in an effective way. This finding empirically validates our argument that existing portfolio models alone do not provide sufficient guidance for defining appropriate strategies.
THE EFFECT OF BOARD STRUCTURE ON SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION CAPABILITY: A RESEARCH ON TURKEY
Authors: ÖZTÜRK Seyhan , GEREKAN Bekir
Published: March 2021

The continuous development of information technology under intense competition environment and shortening in the product life cycles based on short-term changes in customer demands lead to complexity and uncertainty in business environments. This situation features the sustainable innovation capabilities of enterprises, highlighting their significance. In this context, the objective of this study is to determine the impact of board structure on the innovation capabilities of businesses. In line with this purpose, the data of the companies included in the Istanbul Stock Exchange 100 Index for the years 2009 – 2017 were examined by panel data analysis method. As a result of regression analysis using the robust estimator developed by Beck-Katz (1995), it was found that gender diversity and role duality in the board of directors had a statistically significant negative impact on sustainable innovation capability. However, it was also observed that the ratio of foreign members in the board of directors and the size of the enterprise had a statistically significant positive impact on sustainable innovation capability.
Short-term outcomes of submuscular bridge plating of length-unstable paediatric femoral shaft fractures in children - Insights from a South African tertiary hospital setting
Authors: Du Toit J , Salkinder R , Burger MC , Du Preez G , Lamberts RP
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Femoral diaphyseal fracture is a common paediatric orthopaedic injury; however, the management of these fractures remains controversial in children between the ages of 6 and 13 years. The preferred approach for children appears to be surgical, enabling early mobilisation. Some studies have reported that submuscular bridge plating (SBP) might be a good alternative treatment method with favourable outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine whether SBP a) leads to union in length-unstable fractures with a low complication rate; b) leads to reasonable alignment and leg length equality; and c) has acceptable clinical outcomes in a South African tertiary hospital setting. METHODS: All patients with predominantly length-unstable femoral diaphyseal fractures who were treated between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2012 were included in this study. Patients were treated with SBP using standard of care techniques, and hardware removal was performed at approximately eight months post-operatively. The nine months post-operative assessment between the affected and unaffected leg was used to assess the effectiveness of the SBP intervention RESULTS: A total of 29 patients (mean age 9±2 years) were included. The majority of the fractures (n=27, 93%) were length-unstable. Two patients (7%) had transverse fractures with >2 cm overlap and/or weighing >45 kg. All fractures healed within expected time frames. No overall leg length discrepancy (p=0.94) or coronal mechanical axis deviation (p=0.51) was observed between the affected and unaffected lower limbs at nine months post-surgery. No differences between the operated and non-operated sides were observed for hip flexion (p=0.88), hip external rotation (p=0.36), hip internal rotation (p=0.12) or knee flexion (p=0.96 CONCLUSION: SBP provides reliable outcomes in children with diaphyseal femoral fractures and is our preferred method of fixation for a) length-unstable fractures; b) fractures close to the metaphysis; and c) children weighing more than 45 kg Level of evidence: Level 4 Keywords: femoral fractures, paediatric, orthopaedic surgery, children
Freedman-Bernstein musculoskeletal competence testing of South African intern doctors: is there a difference between health science faculties?
Authors: Coetzee KP , Gibson NW
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Basic competency in musculoskeletal medicine is necessary for all graduating doctors due to the growing burden of disease. Globally and nationally research has shown deficiencies in musculoskeletal knowledge according to the Freedman-Bernstein test. In South Africa, different health science faculties show different approaches to training; this article considers if any of these demonstrate adequate training and whether significant differences exist between the faculties' results. The aim of the study is to determine whether there are significant differences between musculoskeletal learning outcomes between graduates from different health science faculties METHODS: A multi-centre, cross-sectional study was performed in which medical interns completed the Freedman-Bernstein test after graduation and prior to commencing their formal two-month block in orthopaedics. Data was then analysed to determine whether significant differences existed between the test scores of the eight health science faculties' graduates RESULTS: A total of 259 completed tests were analysed. The mean score was 46% (range 4-88%, 95% CI 44-48%), and 244 of the 259 interns failed the test (94% failure rate). The lowest and highest mean scores, by health science faculty, was 34% (95% CI 28-40%) and 60% (95% CI 55-64%) respectively. An ANOVA test indicated statistically significant differences between test scores of the different health science faculties (p<0.001 CONCLUSION: We have demonstrated competency scores consistent with previous literature from South Africa and shown that there are statistically significant differences between the health science faculties based on Freedman-Bernstein test scores. This evidence suggests differing levels of musculoskeletal knowledge attained at health science faculties in South Africa, and no improvement in undergraduate education in the last decade Level of evidence: Level 4 Keywords: musculoskeletal, competence, Freedman-Bernstein, undergraduate training
Infantile Blount's disease
Authors: Maré PH , Thompson DM
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT Infantile Blount's disease results in multi-planar proximal tibial deformity consisting of varus, procurvatum, internal rotation and shortening. The deformity is attributed to disordered growth of the posteromedial proximal tibial physis. The aetiology is multifactorial. It is associated with childhood obesity and African ethnicity. The ability to differentiate between infantile Blount's disease and physiological bowing depends on the findings of focused clinical examination, X-ray appearance, tibial metaphyseal-diaphyseal angle and tibial epiphyseal-metaphyseal angle. The gold standard of treatment is proximal tibial metaphyseal corrective osteotomy before the age of 4 years. The limb should be realigned to physiological valgus. The recurrence rate after realignment osteotomy is high. Recurrence is associated with age at osteotomy, obesity, higher Langenskiöld stage and medial physeal slope >60°. The surgical management of severe, recurrent or neglected infantile Blount's disease is challenging. Comprehensive clinical examination and multi-planar deformity analysis with standing long leg X-rays are essential to identify all aspects of the deformity. Distal femur coronal malalignment and significant rotational deformity should be excluded. Knee instability due to intra-articular deformity should be corrected by elevation of the medial tibial plateau. Lateral epiphysiodesis should be done at the same time as medial plateau elevation and when medial growth arrest is certain to prevent recurrence. Level of evidence: Level 5 Keywords: Blount's disease, tibia vara, genu varum, recurrence, obesity