bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of a Fat-Restricted Diet in Four Patients with Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome: A Long-Term Follow-Up Study
Authors: Thajer Alexandra , Skacel Gabriele , de Gier Charlotte , Greber-Platzer Susanne
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: Familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS) is a very rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by severely elevated triglycerides and clinical symptoms in early childhood mainly presenting with abdominal pain, acute pancreatitis and hepatosplenomegaly. Primary treatment is a lifelong very strict low-fat diet, which might be challenging in pediatric patients. So far, data about children with FCS are rare. The aim of this study was to show the familial chylomicronemia syndrome traffic light table for pediatric patients and to assess the dietary fat intake and impact on triglycerides in children with FCS. (2) Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis in four children (50% male) affected by FCS from the Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna between January 2002 and September 2020. (3) Results: The four patients presented with classical FCS symptoms and showed baseline triglycerides (TG) exceeding 30,000 mg/dL in two patients, 10,000 mg/dL and 2400 mg/dL in one patient each. After diagnosis, fat percentage of total daily caloric intake was decreased and resulted immediately in triglyceride reduction. In all patients, FCS was genetically confirmed by mutations in genes encoding lipoprotein lipase. Acute pancreatitis and hepatosplenomegaly disappeared under the fat-restricted diet. A FCS traffic light table was developed as a dietary tool for affected families. (4) Conclusions: A restriction of dietary fat between 10% to 26% of the total daily caloric intake was feasible and effective in the long-term treatment of genetically confirmed FCS in children and could reduce the risk for acute pancreatitis. The dietary tool, the pediatric FCS traffic light table and the age-appropriate portion sizes for patients between 1 to 18 years, supports children and their parents to achieve and adhere to the lifelong strict low-fat diet.
New Aspects of Sarcomas of Uterine Corpus—A Brief Narrative Review
Authors: Kostov Stoyan , Kornovski Yavor , Ivanova Vesela , Dzhenkov Deyan , Metodiev Dimitar , Watrowski Rafał , Ivanova Yonka , Slavchev Stanislav , Mitev Dimitar , Yordanov Angel
Published: November 2021

Sarcomas of the uterine corpus are rare malignant neoplasms, which are further classified into mesenchymal tumors, and mixed (epithelial plus mesenchymal) tumors. The main issues concerning these neoplasms are the small number of clinical trials, insufficient data from evidence-based medicine, insignificant interest from the pharmaceutical industry, all of which close a vicious circle. The low frequency of these malignancies implies insufficient experience in the diagnosis, hence incomplete surgical and complex treatment. Additionally, the rarity of these sarcomas makes it very difficult to develop clinical practice guidelines. Preoperative diagnosis, neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemoradiation, target and hormone therapies still raise many controversies. Disagreements about the role and type of surgical treatment are also often observed in medical literature. There are still insufficient data about the role of pelvic lymph node dissection and fertility-sparing surgery. Pathologists’ experience is of paramount importance for an accurate diagnosis. Additionally, genetics examinations become part of diagnosis in some sarcomas of the uterine corpus. Some gene mutations observed in uterine sarcomas are associated with different outcomes. Therefore, a development of molecular classification of uterine sarcomas should be considered in the future. In this review, we focus on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, pathology, diagnosis and treatment of the following sarcomas of the uterine corpus: leiomyosarcoma, low- and high-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas, undifferentiated sarcoma and adenosarcoma. Uterine carcinosarcomas are excluded as they represent an epithelial tumor rather than a true sarcoma.
Corrosion and Biocompatibility of Pure Zn with a Micro-Arc-Oxidized Layer Coated with Calcium Phosphate
Authors: Shi Yixuan , Yang Lijing , Wang Lucai , Zhang Qingke , Zhu Xinglong , Sun Wensheng , Shen Jianwei , Lu Ting , Song Zhenlun , Liu Huinan
Published: November 2021

Recent studies have indicated a great demand to optimize the biocompatibility properties of pure Zn as an implant material. For this purpose, CaZn2(PO4)2·2H2O (CaZnP) was prepared using hydrothermal treatment (HT) combined with micro-arc oxidation (MAO) on pure Zn substrate to generate biodegradable implants. The polarization test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicated that the MAO1−HT coating could modulate the corrosion behavior of MAO1 by filling the crevice between the coating and the substrate. Immersion test evaluation revealed that the osteogenic properties of MAO1−HT coating were better than that of pure Zn substrate, as evidenced by the molar ratio of Ca and P, which increased after soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF) for up to 10 days. In addition, L-929 cells cultured in the 100%, 50%, and 25% extracts of MAO1−HT coated samples exhibited excellent cytocompatibility. Meanwhile, cell adhesion was promoted on the surface with high roughness generated during MAO and HT processes. In summary, the calcified coatings improved biocompatibility and adjusted the degradation rates of pure Zn, broadening the application of Zn alloys.
Investigations on the Influence of Annealing on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Electrodeposited Ni-Mo and Ni-Mo-W Alloy Coatings
Authors: Zhang Chao , Si Wudong , Wang Yin , Dai Sichao , Shu Da
Published: November 2021

Ni-Mo and Ni-Mo-W coatings were electrodeposited on a stainless steel sheet, and then were annealed at 200, 400, and 600 °C. The effect of annealing heat treatment on the microstructure of Ni-Mo and Ni-Mo-W electrodepositions, their nano-hardness, and tribological properties were investigated. It was revealed that the average crystalline are refined and phase separation are promoted with formation of Mo-W related intermetallic precipitates at temperature exceed 400 °C on account of the co-existence of Mo-W elements within Ni-Mo-W coatings. Annealing heat treatment leads to hardening, and the hardness and elastic module increase significantly. The grain boundary (GB) relaxation and hard precipitated intermetallic particles are responsible for the annealing-induced hardening for ≤400 °C annealed and 600 °C annealed Ni-Mo-W coatings, respectively. In addition, both adhesive wear and abrasive wear are observed for coatings, and abrasive wear becomes predominant when annealing temperature up to 600 °C. The wear resistance of coatings is improved eventually by formation of a mixture of lubricated oxides upon annealing at 600 °C and the enhancement of H/E ratio for ≤400 °C annealed Ni-Mo-W coatings.
Water Quality Analysis in a Subtropical River with an Adapted Biomonitoring Working Party (BMWP) Index
Authors: Magallón Ortega Guillermo , Escalera Gallardo Carlos , López-López Eugenia , Sedeño-Díaz Jacinto Elías , López Hernández Martín , Arroyo-Damián Miriam , Moncayo-Estrada Rodrigo
Published: November 2021

Subtropical rivers in developing countries often lack adequate monitoring, which makes it difficult to comprehensively determine their water quality when faced with different anthropic impacts. There are no proper protocols in the regulations to incorporate indicators and adapt them to different biogeographic regions, limiting the potential success of conservation and restoration of river ecosystems. This study proposes implementing macroinvertebrates as bioindicators of water quality in river ecosystems, and modifying the calibration of the widely used Biomonitoring Working Party (BMWP) index for its adaptation in a subtropical river. The Duero River, Mexico, was used as an example in this study. Data were explored with multivariate statistics, and the water quality and habitat values were averaged to obtain the families’ bioindication values and the index categories. The BMWP adequately described a deterioration gradient from the origin to the river mouth (from fair to extremely polluted), with some intermediate recovery points related to the presence of springs. Its performance was compared with other biological indices and exhibited a positive relationship with all of them. In addition, how BMWP changed over time was analyzed by examining previous samples, and highlighted increased river deterioration over time. A calibrated BMWP will allow for long-term monitoring at a low cost.
Best Practice Recommendations for the Implementation of a Digital Pathology Workflow in the Anatomic Pathology Laboratory by the European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP)
Authors: Fraggetta Filippo , L’Imperio Vincenzo , Ameisen David , Carvalho Rita , Leh Sabine , Kiehl Tim-Rasmus , Serbanescu Mircea , Racoceanu Daniel , Della Mea Vincenzo , Polonia Antonio , Zerbe Norman , Eloy Catarina
Published: November 2021

The interest in implementing digital pathology (DP) workflows to obtain whole slide image (WSI) files for diagnostic purposes has increased in the last few years. The increasing performance of technical components and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of systems for primary diagnosis led to increased interest in applying DP workflows. However, despite this revolutionary transition, real world data suggest that a fully digital approach to the histological workflow has been implemented in only a minority of pathology laboratories. The objective of this study is to facilitate the implementation of DP workflows in pathology laboratories, helping those involved in this process of transformation to identify: (a) the scope and the boundaries of the DP transformation; (b) how to introduce automation to reduce errors; (c) how to introduce appropriate quality control to guarantee the safety of the process and (d) the hardware and software needed to implement DP systems inside the pathology laboratory. The European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP) provided consensus-based recommendations developed through discussion among members of the Scientific Committee. The recommendations are thus based on the expertise of the panel members and on the agreement obtained after virtual meetings. Prior to publication, the recommendations were reviewed by members of the ESDIP Board. The recommendations comprehensively cover every step of the implementation of the digital workflow in the anatomic pathology department, emphasizing the importance of interoperability, automation and tracking of the entire process before the introduction of a scanning facility. Compared to the available national and international guidelines, the present document represents a practical, handy reference for the correct implementation of the digital workflow in Europe.
Data Mining to Identify Anomalies in Public Procurement Rating Parameters
Authors: Torres-Berru Yeferson , López Batista Vivian F.
Published: November 2021

The awarding of public procurement processes is one of the main causes of corruption in governments, due to the fact that in many cases, contracts are awarded to previously agreed suppliers (favouritism); for this selection, the qualification parameters of a process play a fundamental role, seeing as due to their manipulation, bidders with high prices win, causing prejudice to the state. This study identifies processes with anomalies and generates a model for detecting possible corruption in the assignment of process qualification parameters in public procurement. A multi-phase model was used (the identification of anomalies and generation of the detection model), which uses different algorithms, such as clustering (K-Means), Self-Organizing map (SOM), Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). SOM was used to determine the level of influence of each rating parameter, K-Means to create groups by clustering, semi-supervised learning with SVM and PCA to generate a model to detect anomalies in the processes. By means of a case study, four groups of processes were obtained, highlighting the presence of the group “null economic offer” where the values for the economic offer do not exceed 1%, and a greater weight is given to other qualification parameters, which include direct contracting. The processes in this cluster are considered anomalous. Following this methodology, a semi-supervised learning model is built for the detection of anomalies, which obtains an accuracy of 95%, allowing the detection of procedures where the aim is to benefit a particular supplier by means of the qualification assignment parameters.
Gate-Voltage-Modulated Spin Precession in Graphene/WS2 Field-Effect Transistors
Authors: Afzal Amir Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Farooq , Eom Jonghwa
Published: November 2021

Transition metal dichalcogenide materials are studied to investigate unexplored research avenues, such as spin transport behavior in 2-dimensional materials due to their strong spin-orbital interaction (SOI) and the proximity effect in van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures. Interfacial interactions between bilayer graphene (BLG) and multilayer tungsten disulfide (ML-WS2) give rise to fascinating properties for the realization of advanced spintronic devices. In this study, a BLG/ML-WS2 vdW heterostructure spin field-effect transistor (FET) was fabricated to demonstrate the gate modulation of Rashba-type SOI and spin precession angle. The gate modulation of Rashba-type SOI and spin precession has been confirmed using the Hanle measurement. The change in spin precession angle agrees well with the local and non-local signals of the BLG/ML-WS2 spin FET. The operation of a spin FET in the absence of a magnetic field at room temperature is successfully demonstrated.
Dual-Band Single-Layer Fractal Frequency Selective Surface for 5G Applications
Authors: Decoster Bram , Maes Stephanie , Cuiñas Iñigo , García Sánchez Manuel , Caldeirinha Rafael , Verhaevert Jo
Published: November 2021

Due to the global growth in popularity of Fifth Generation (5G) cellular communications, the demand for shielding against it has risen for a variety of applications, mainly related to cybersecurity but also to isolation, calm areas and so on. This research paper aims to provide a suitable dual-band fractal FSS (Frequency Selective Surface) for the 5G lower band frequencies: 750 MHz and 3.5 GHz. The unit cell is in the shape of a bow tie, where each of the triangular parts are Sierpiński triangles. One major addition to the unit cell is a central metal strip to make the manufacturing of the FSS more feasible and to tune the operation frequencies and bandwidths. As with each different stage of a fractal antenna, the different stages of the fractal FSS design behave differently. For this application, stage 2 is sufficient, as we are able to cover frequency bands among those included in the FR1 5G spectrum. Some equations were derived using linear regression in order to provide specific design tools for building an FSS. These equations have high accuracy and can be used to adapt the proposed design to other frequencies. Some other parameters, which are not represented in the aforementioned equations, can also be adjusted for minor tweaking of the final design. This design performs well except under large incidence angles. This should be taken into account when proposing the installation of a structure based on it. A good agreement between simulation and measurement results is observed.
A Novel Monte-Carlo Simulation-Based Model for Malware Detection (eRBCM)
Authors: Alrammal Muath , Naveed Munir , Tsaramirsis Georgios
Published: November 2021

The use of innovative and sophisticated malware definitions poses a serious threat to computer-based information systems. Such malware is adaptive to the existing security solutions and often works without detection. Once malware completes its malicious activity, it self-destructs and leaves no obvious signature for detection and forensic purposes. The detection of such sophisticated malware is very challenging and a non-trivial task because of the malware’s new patterns of exploiting vulnerabilities. Any security solutions require an equal level of sophistication to counter such attacks. In this paper, a novel reinforcement model based on Monte-Carlo simulation called eRBCM is explored to develop a security solution that can detect new and sophisticated network malware definitions. The new model is trained on several kinds of malware and can generalize the malware detection functionality. The model is evaluated using a benchmark set of malware. The results prove that eRBCM can identify a variety of malware with immense accuracy.
Availability and Environmental Performance of Wood for a Second-Generation Biorefinery
Authors: Rachid-Casnati Cecilia , Resquin Fernando , Carrasco-Letelier Leonidas
Published: November 2021

The current global climate change, the 2030 Agenda, and the planetary boundaries have driven new development strategies, such as the circular economy, bioeconomy, and biorefineries. In this framework, this study analyzes the potential availability and sustainability of the wood supply chain for a small-scale biorefinery aiming at producing 280–300 L of bioethanol per ton of dry biomass, consuming 30,000 t of dry biomass per year harvested in a 50 km radius. This wood production goal was assessed from Eucalyptus grandis stands planted for solid wood in northeastern Uruguay. Moreover, to understand the environmental performance of this biomass supply chain, the energy return on investment (EROI), carbon footprint (CF), and potential soil erosion were also assessed. The results showed that the potential wood production would supply an average of 81,800 t of dry mass per year, maintaining the soil erosion below the upper threshold recommended, an EROI of 2.3, and annual CF of 1.22 kg CO2−eq m−3 (2.6 g CO2−eq MJ−1). Combined with the environmental performance of the bioethanol biorefinery facility, these results would show acceptable values of sustainability according to EU Directive 2009/28/ec because the bioethanol CF becomes 1.7% of this petrol’s CF.
Emoji for Food and Beverage Research: Pleasure, Arousal and Dominance Meanings and Appropriateness for Use
Authors: Jaeger Sara R. , Jin David , Ryan Grace S. , Schouteten Joachim J.
Published: November 2021

Emoji have been argued to have considerable potential for emotion research but are struggling with uptake in part because knowledge about their meaning is lacking. The present research included 24 emoji (14 facial, 10 non-facial) which were characterized using the PAD model (Pleasure-Arousal-Dominance) of human affect by 165 consumers in New Zealand and 861 consumers in the UK. The results from the two countries were remarkably similar and contributed further evidence that emoji are suitable for cross-cultural research. While significant differences between the emoji were established for each of the PAD dimensions, the mean scores differed most on the Pleasure dimension (positive to negative), then on the Arousal dimension (activated to deactivated), and lastly on the Dominance dimension (dominance to submissive). The research also directly measured the perceived appropriateness of the 24 emoji for use with foods and beverages. The emoji face savoring food, clapping hands and party popper were in the top-5 for the highest appropriateness in food and beverage context for both studies, as was a strong negative expression linked to rejection (Study 1: face vomiting; Study 2: nauseated face). On the other hand, zzz and oncoming fist were considered as the least appropriate to be used in a food and beverage context in both studies. Again, the results from the UK and NZ were in good agreement and identified similar groups of emoji as most and least suitable for food-related consumer research.
Effect of Water Temperature and Time during Heating on Mass Loss and Rheology of Cheese Curds
Authors: Feng Ran , Lillevang Søren K. , Ahrné Lilia
Published: November 2021

During the manufacturing of mozzarella, cheese curds are heated to the desired stretching temperature traditionally by immersion in water, which influences the curd characteristics before stretching, and consequently the final cheese properties. In this study, cheese curds were immersed in hot water at 60, 70, 80 and 90 °C up to 16 min and the kinetics of mass loss and changes of rheological properties were investigated. The total mass of cooked curds increased up to 10% during the first minute, independent of the temperature, as a consequence of water retention. Fat was the main component lost into the cooking water (<3.5% w/w), while the concentration of protein increased up to 3.4% (w/w) compared to uncooked curds due to the loss of other components. Curds macrostructure during cooking showed that curds fully fuse at 70 °C/4 min; 80 °C/2 min and 90 °C/1 min, while after intensive cooking (>8 min) they lost the ability to fuse as a consequence of protein contraction and fat loss. Storage modulus, representing the curd strength, was dependent on cooking temperature and positively, and linearly, correlated with curd protein content (21.7–24.9%). This work shows the potential to modify curd composition and structure, which will have consequences for further processing and final product properties.
Investigation of the Maturity Evaluation Indicator of Honey in Natural Ripening Process: The Case of Rape Honey
Authors: Zhang Guo-Zhi , Tian Jing , Zhang Yan-Zheng , Li Shan-Shan , Zheng Huo-Qing , Hu Fu-Liang
Published: November 2021

Honey maturity, a critical factor for quality evaluation, is difficult to detect in the current industry research. The objective of this study was to explore the changes in the composition and find potential maturity indicators of rape honey at different maturity stages through evaluating physicochemical parameters (moisture, sugars, pH, electrical conductivity, total protein, total phenols, total flavonoids, proline, and enzyme activity), the antioxidant capacity, and volatile components. The relevant results are as follows: 1. As the maturity increased, the moisture, sucrose, and maltose content of rape honey gradually decreased, while the glucose, fructose, and total protein content gradually increased. The activities of diastase, invertase, and β-glucosidase showed a significant increase with the elevation of ripening days, and the activity of glucose oxidase reached the highest before completely capping. 2. The antioxidant capacity of honey increased with the increase in honey maturity. There is a significant and strong correlation between the bioactive components of rape honey and antioxidant capacity (p < 0.01, |r| > 0.857). 3. Thirty-five volatile components have been identified. Nonanal, benzaldehyde monomer, and benzaldehyde dimer can be used as potential indicators for the identification of honey maturity stages. Principal component analysis (PCA) based on antioxidant parameters and volatile components can identify the maturity of honey.
Comprehensive Evaluation of 17 Qualities of 84 Types of Rice Based on Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Shi Shijie , Wang Enting , Li Chengxuan , Zhou Hui , Cai Mingli , Cao Cougui , Jiang Yang
Published: November 2021

Rice quality is a complex indicator, and people are paying more and more attention to the quality of rice. Therefore, we used seven rice varieties for twelve nitrogen fertilizer treatments and obtained eighty-four rice types with seventeen qualities. It was found that 17 quality traits had different coefficients of variation. Among them, the coefficient of variation of chalkiness and protein content was the largest, 44.60% and 17.89% respectively. The cluster analysis method was used to define four categories of different rice qualities. The principal component analysis method was used to comprehensively evaluate 17 qualities of 84 rice. It was found that rice quality was better under low nitrogen conditions, Huanghuazhan and Lvyinzhan were easier to obtain better comprehensive rice quality during cultivation. Future rice research should focus on reducing protein content and increasing peak viscosity.
Effects of Ultrasound Technology on the Qualitative Properties of Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: Manganiello Rossella , Pagano Mauro , Nucciarelli Davide , Ciccoritti Roberto , Tomasone Roberto , Di Serio Maria Gabriella , Giansante Lucia , Del Re Paolo , Servili Maurizio , Veneziani Gianluca
Published: November 2021

The development of innovative technologies in the mechanical extraction process of extra virgin olive oil can improve its quality standards through the modulation of physical, chemical and biochemical processes. Extra virgin olive oil quality and varietal differentiation are influenced by many factors, particularly the extraction. The use of ultrasound technology in the extraction process does not affect the quality, the composition, and the thermal properties of the oil, facilitating its separation from solids, and it allows the release of active compounds from the olive paste, with a positive influence on the phenolic content. In this study, the impact of ultrasound technologies was evaluated on merceological parameters, quality profile, and organoleptic features of extra virgin olive oils extracted from whole and destoned olives of the three main Italian cultivars (i.e., Peranzana, Canino, and Coratina). The parameters analyzed were influenced by both genotype and treatment, in particular, sonication did not lead to significant changes in the nutraceutical profile of the oils. The de-stoned olives were able to determine a great improvement of oil quality both for phenolic and volatile composition with a significant enhancement of health and sensory properties of the product.
Instrumental and Sensory Characteristics of Commercial Korean Rice Noodles
Authors: Lee Ah-Hyun , Oh Seon-Min , Ye Sang-Jin , Kim Hui-Yun , Bae Ji-Eun , Choi Jong-Hyun , Kim Byung-Yong , Baik Moo-Yeol
Published: November 2021

In this study, the rheological properties of several commercial rice noodle strands were investigated. In the bending test, failure stress decreased as the cooking temperature increased from 80 to 90 °C, and the cooking time increased from 3 to 4 min for higher rice content noodles (>60%). The stress–relaxation test and sensory tests were carried out with bundles of noodles to investigate correlations with the bending test. The modulus of elasticity was higher at 80 than 90 °C. However, no correlation was found between cooking temperature and the rheological properties of lower rice content noodles. In the stress relaxation test, the deviation was larger due to the empty space in the bundle. In the correlation analysis, sensory stickiness was correlated with a modulus of elasticity in the bending test. Comparing the bending and stress–relaxation tests, each instrumental variable showed differences in the rheological properties of rice noodles in strands and bundles. However, the bending test measured with noodle strands seemed to be most suitable as a method of measuring the rheological properties of rice noodles.
Untargeted Headspace-Gas Chromatography-Ion Mobility Spectrometry in Combination with Chemometrics for Detecting the Age of Chinese Liquor (Baijiu)
Authors: Chen Shuang , Lu Jialing , Qian Michael , He Hongkui , Li Anjun , Zhang Jun , Shen Xiaomei , Gao Jiangjing , Xu Yan
Published: November 2021

This paper proposes the combination of headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) and chemometrics as a method to detect the age of Chinese liquor (Baijiu). Headspace conditions were optimized through single-factor optimization experiments. The optimal sample preparation involved diluting Baijiu with saturated brine to 15% alcohol by volume. The sample was equilibrated at 70 °C for 30 min, and then analyzed with 200 μL of headspace gas. A total of 39 Baijiu samples from different vintages (1998–2019) were collected directly from pottery jars and analyzed using HS-GC-IMS. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) analysis was used to establish two discriminant models based on the 212 signal peaks and the 93 identified compounds. Although both models were valid, the model based on the 93 identified compounds discriminated the ages of the samples more accurately according to the goodness of fit value (R2) and the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP), which were 0.9986 and 0.244, respectively. Nineteen compounds with variable importance for prediction (VIP) scores > 1, including 11 esters, 4 alcohols, and 4 aldehydes, played vital roles in the model established by the 93 identified compounds. Overall, we determined that HS-GC-IMS combined with PLSR could serve as a rapid and accurate method for detecting the age of Baijiu.
Visitation Rate Analysis of Geoheritage Features from Earth Science Education Perspective Using Automated Landform Classification and Crowdsourcing: A Geoeducation Capacity Map of the Auckland Volcanic Field, New Zealand
Authors: Németh Boglárka , Németh Károly , Procter Jon N.
Published: November 2021

The increase in geoheritage studies has secured recognition globally regarding the importance of abiotic natural features. Prominent in geoheritage screening practices follows a multicriteria assessment framework; however, the complexity of interest in values often causes decision making to overlook geoeducation, one of the primary facets of geosystem services. Auckland volcanic field in New Zealand stretches through the whole area of metropolitan Auckland, which helps preserve volcanic cones and their cultural heritage around its central business district (CBD). They are important sites for developing tourist activities. Geoeducation is becoming a significant factor for tourists and others visiting geomorphological features, but it cannot be achieved without sound planning. This paper investigates the use of big data (FlickR), Geopreservation Inventory, and Geographic Information System for identifying geoeducation capacity of tourist attractions. Through landform classification using the Topographic Position Index and integrated with geological and the inventory data, the underpromoted important geoeducation sites can be mapped and added to the spatial database Auckland Council uses for urban planning. The use of the Geoeducation Capacity Map can help resolve conflicts between the multiple objectives that a bicultural, metropolitan city council need to tackle in the planning of upgrading open spaces while battling of growing demand for land.
Effects of Prehabilitation on Functional Capacity in Aged Patients Undergoing Cardiothoracic Surgeries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fernández-Costa Damián , Gómez-Salgado Juan , Castillejo del Río Andrés , Borrallo-Riego Álvaro , Guerra-Martín María Dolores
Published: November 2021

Background: an increasing number of advanced age patients are considered for cardiothoracic surgeries. Prehabilitation optimizes the patients’ functional capacity and physiological reserve. However, the effectiveness of prehabilitation on physical functioning and postoperative recovery in the scope of cardiothoracic surgery is still uncertain. Objective: to assess the effectiveness of prehabilitation on pre- and/or postoperative functional capacity and physiological reserve in aged patients that are considered for cardiothoracic surgeries. Methods: this systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021247117). The searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane CENTRAL until 18 April 2021. Randomized clinical trials that compared different prehabilitation strategies with usual care on the pre- and-postoperative results in aged patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgeries were included. Methodological quality was assessed by means of the Jadad scale, and the effectiveness of the interventions according to the Consensus on Therapeutic Exercise Training. Results: nine studies with 876 participants aged from 64 to 71.5 years old were included. Risk of bias was moderate due to the absence of double-blinding. The content of the interventions (multimodal prehabilitation n = 3; based on physical exercises n = 6) and the result measures presented wide variation, which hindered comparison across the studies. In general, the trials with better therapeutic quality (n = 6) reported more significant improvements in physical functioning, cardiorespiratory capacity, and in the postoperative results in the participants under-going prehabilitation. Conclusions: prehabilitation seems to improve functional capacity and postoperative recovery in aged patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgeries. However, due to the significant heterogeneity and questionable quality of the trials, both the effectiveness of prehabilitation and the optimum content are still to be determined.
Halotherapy—An Ancient Natural Ally in the Management of Asthma: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Crisan-Dabija Radu , Sandu Ioan Gabriel , Popa Iolanda Valentina , Scripcariu Dragos-Viorel , Covic Adrian , Burlacu Alexandru
Published: November 2021

The increasing production of modern medication emerges as a new source of environmental pollution. The scientific community is interested in developing alternative, ecological therapies in asthma. Halotherapy proved its benefits in asthma diagnosis, treatment, and prevention and may represent a reliable therapeutic addition to the allopathic treatment, due to its ecological and environment-friendly nature, in order to prevent or prolong the time to exacerbations in patients with asthma. We aimed to review up-to-date research regarding halotherapy benefits in asthma comprehensively. We searched the electronic databases of PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE for studies that evaluated the exposure of asthmatic patients to halotherapy. Eighteen original articles on asthma were included. Five studies in adults and five in children assessed the performance of hypertonic saline bronchial challenges to diagnose asthma or vocal cord dysfunction in asthmatic patients. Three papers evaluated the beneficial effects of halotherapy on mucociliary clearance in asthmatic adults. The therapeutic effect of halotherapy on acute or chronic asthma was appraised in three studies in adults and one in children. The preventive role was documented in one paper reporting the ability of halotherapy to hinder nocturnal asthma exacerbations. All studies seem to sustain the overall positive effects of halotherapy as adjuvant therapy on asthma patients with no reported adverse events. Halotherapy is a crucial natural ally in asthma, but further evidence-based studies on larger populations are needed.
The Applications of Molecular Hydrogen in Horticulture
Authors: Li Longna , Zeng Yan , Cheng Xu , Shen Wenbiao
Published: November 2021

Improvements in the growth, yield, and quality of horticultural crops require the development of simply integrated, cost-efficient, and eco-friendly solutions. Hydrogen gas (H2) has been observed to have fertilization effects on soils by influencing rhizospheric microorganisms, resulting in improvements in crop yield and quality. Ample studies have shown that H2 has positive effects on horticultural crops, such as promoting root development, enhancing tolerance against abiotic and biotic stress, prolonging storage life, and improving postharvest quality of fruits, vegetables and cut flowers. In this review, we aim to evaluate the feasibility of molecular hydrogen application in horticulture and the strategies for its application, including H2 delivery methods, treatment timing, and the concentration of H2 applied. The discussion will be accompanied by outlining the effects of H2 and the likely mechanisms of its efficacy. In short, the application of H2 may provide novel opportunities for simple and cost efficient improvements of horticultural production in terms of increased yield and product quality but with low carbon dioxide emissions.
Are the Visegrad countries independent players in European politics and economics?
Authors: Nevskaya Anastasia Alekseevna
Published: November 2021

The article examines the degree of independence of the Visegrad Group countries in the European Union in terms of economic prerequisites and actual implementation. It has been suggested that the countries of the Visegrad Group, having reached a certain level of economic prosperity and diversified their foreign economic relations, began to strive to play a more independent role in making integration decisions in the EU, including on issues of basic common European values. This hypothesis is tested on the example of the negotiation process of the EU countries on the adoption of the MultiYear Financial Plan for 2021–2027 and the creation of a Next Generation EU Fund to work together to tackle the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The main directions of the negotiations, the positions of the participants and the general results are analyzed. Particular attention is drawn to the fact that Poland and Hungary have succeeded in achieving ambivalent language on the issues of linking the allocation of funds to member countries with their provision of the rule of law and observance of other democratic principles. It is shown that in practice the European Commission still does not abandon this linkage. It is concluded that during the EU membership, the Visegrad Group countries have succeeded in demonstrating their economic capabilities, and their ability to influence the solution of common European issues has increased, but the real degree of autonomy of the Visegrad countries within the EU has not reached a qualitatively new level, including and due to contradictions in the positions of countries within the bloc itself.
Transformation of economic systems in countries with emerging markets: the phenomenon of hybrid state capitalism — what is forward?
Authors: Martynov Arkady Vladimirovich
Published: November 2021

The article is devoted to the actual and complex topic of the economic transformation of a number of countries with emerging (growing) markets, which are distinguished by a hybrid systemic structure with a dominant state-capitalist order. A retrospective of the transformation of the entire enclave of emerging market economies in a large number of countries has described. On this ground, the author analyzes the process of the reproduction of economic systems, distinguished by the dominant state-capitalist order, in a separate conglomerate of post-developing and post-socialist countries in the last ten-year period. According to the author, the observed tremendous increase in demand and at the same time in prices for commodities after the peak of the Pandemic in non-Western countries is temporary. It will soon exhaust itself in the face of rapid progress in the efficiency of resource consumption in the largest producing countries, primarily in China and India, and the rapid general process of decarbonization in the world economy. In the future, the fundamental factors of national economic development will play a decisive role. With regard to the conglomerate of considered national economies, the most significant fundamental competitive advantage, at least in a five-year perspective, presents still the preservation of a relatively low cost of production factors. Based on the author’s argumentation and the available research results, a vision of the near and longterm prospects for the transformation of such national economies has supposed. The main conclusion concerns the possibility of successful adaptation of the considered national economic systems to the expected fundamental changes, including those associated with the transition to economic and overall social sustainable development.
Paridad y género
Authors: Smaldone Mariana
Published: November 2021

Este artículo tiene como propósito realizar un aporte teórico-conceptual para el debate sobre la paridad desde una perspectiva de género, a partir del pensamiento feminista materialista de Christine Delphy, especialmente su análisis en Classer, dominer. Qui sont les “autres”? (2008). Allí, la pensadora francesa aborda diferentes problemas –como la opresión, la dominación y la “normalidad”– al poner en evidencia los modos en que opera el género en su entrecruzamiento con la clase y la raza, entre otras cuestiones. A partir del sistema de género, se divide la humanidad en dos grupos jerarquizados y se basa en la organización social en clases, al abarcar las clases o el género. Esta organización social en la que están las mujeres oprimidas y explotadas como grupo se llama patriarcado. Sobre esta base, es necesario reflexionar sobre la legislación, por ejemplo, para la paridad de género. Y, aunque el análisis y la posición delphyana están cargados de la realidad que se vive en el suelo francés, considero que algunos aspectos teóricos-conceptuales nos permiten mantener encendida la crítica en vista de los avances legislativos en Argentina y al sur de América, sin desentendernos de que nuestro enemigo principal continúa combinando la dominación patriarcal, colonialista y capitalista.
Militancia política y feminismo:
Authors: Ochoa Sotomayor Gloria , Ríos López Vicente Alfonso
Published: November 2021

El artículo es una indagación en la militancia política y la forma en que las mujeres se relacionan con el feminismo en dos generaciones de militantes en Chile. Se analizaron entrevistas en profundidad con un enfoque biográfico a ocho mujeres de dos generaciones. La primera, corresponde a mujeres con militancias políticas en las décadas de 1960 y 1970, y luego del golpe de Estado de 1973. La segunda son mujeres con militancias políticas de mediados de los 2000 y activas al momento del estallido social del 18 de octubre de 2019. Se utilizó una metodología cualitativa, un enfoque interpretativo y un diseño no experimental. Se describe una breve historización sobre las mujeres y la participación política desde comienzos del siglo XX hasta la actualidad en el país y se analiza la relación que las mujeres establecen con el posicionamiento político sexo-genérico como mujeres y el feminismo en sus trayectorias militantes, los obstáculos que han encontrado en los partidos políticos y las principales estrategias de resistencia que han desarrollado para continuar con su militancia.
Analysis Of Factors Affecting Auditor Switching In Manufacturing Companies Listed On The Indonesia Stock Exchange
Authors: Bangun Lora Ferbina
Published: November 2021

Auditor switching is the turn of KAP and auditor carried out by the company for a reason or there are certain factors of the company or of the auditor itself. This study aims to determine the effect of audit fees, financial distress auditor size, client size, and management change to the auditor switching on manufacturing companies listed in the Indonesia Stock Exchange 2011-2014 period. This study used secondary data obtained from financial statements published on the internet through the official website of Indonesia Stock Exchange www.idx.co.id.The research sample is manufacturing companies listed in the Indonesia Stock Exchange 2012-2014. Sampling using purposive sampling and obtained a sample of 96 observations of 32 companies sampled in this study. Hypothesis testing is done by using logistic regression. From the test results indicate that audit fees, financial distress, auditor sie, clients size, and management changes do not influence auditor switching.
The Influence Of Business Ethics, Code Of Conduct, Shareholders And Good Corporate Governance (GCG) Policy On The Implementation OF GCG In Bank Sumut
Authors: Sari Karina
Published: November 2021

This research goal is to analyze the influence of business ethics, code of conduct, shareholder and Good Corporate Governance (GCG) policy toward the implementation of GCG at Bank of North Sumatra.The type of research used is the study of causal associative, with a sample of 50 respondents from the employees of Bank of Sumut. The type of data is primary, directly obtained from questionnaires that are sent to respondents. The analysis method that is used in this research is multiple regression analysis. Data quality was authentically tested by validity and reliability test data. Classical assumption tests that are used are normality and heteroscedasticity tests. Furthermore, the significance partial test (t-test) and coefficient of determination test (R2) are used for the hypothesis test. The results of this research shows that business ethics, code of conduct and GCG policy were partially and positively affect the implementation of GCG at Bank of North Sumatra; however, shareholders have no significant impact on the implementation of GCG at the Bank of North Sumatra.
İklim Değişikliğinin Kırsal Alanlara Etkisinin Muhtarlar Üzerinden Değerlendirilmesi: Yozgat Köyleri Örneğinde
Authors: EKİNCİ Emre , ÖKDE Fatma
Published: November 2021

Çalışma, iklim değişikliğinin kırsal alanlara etkisini, konu ile ilgili çıkarımlarda bulunmayı ve sorun alanlarını köy muhtarları ile yapılan görüşmeler ile tespit etmeyi amaçlamaktadır. İklim değişikliği nedeniyle aşırı hava olaylarının ve kuraklığın etkileri kentlerde daha çok hissedilmesine ve daha çok insanı etkilemesine rağmen kırsalda yaşanan etkiler hem gıda üretimini tehdit etmesi hem de kente olan göçü tetiklemesiyle önemli bir hal almaktadır. Bu kapsamda çalışma, öncesinde iklim değişikliğinin genel olarak kırsal alanlara etkilerini değerlendirmeyi, sonrasında ise iklim değişikliğinin Yozgat kırsalına olası etkilerini ve bunlara uyum kapasitelerini araştırmayı amaçlamaktadır. Araştırma, nitel araştırma yöntemlerinin bir çeşidi olan yapılandırılmış görüşme tekniği kullanılarak yapılmıştır. Bu görüşmede, standartlaştırılmış 10 açık uçlu soru ve 6 demografik sorudan oluşan bir form kullanılmıştır. Örneklem ise olasılıklı olmayan örnekleme yöntemlerinden kolayda örnekleme yöntemiyle seçilen 10 köy muhtarından oluşmaktadır. Muhtarlarla yapılan görüşmeler ortalama 15 dakika sürmüş ve tüm görüşmeler kayda alınarak bilgisayar ortamına aktarılmıştır. Aktarılan görüşmeler ise kategoriler halinde içerik analizi yapılarak yorumlanmıştır. Araştırmada, köy muhtarlarının iklim değişikliği konusunda bilgi düzeyi, iklim değişikliğinin köylere olan etkileri, bu etkilere karşı mücadele kapasitesi, olası afet, kuraklık gibi sorunlar için alınacak önlemler, iklim değişikliği ile mücadele için alternatif yönelimler, sorunların çözümü için eğitim ve yönlendirme ihtiyacı gibi konularına ilişkin sorulara cevap aranarak kırsal kesimin iklim değişikliği ile mücadele etme kapasitesinin ne düzeyde olduğu tartışılmaktadır. Bu kapsamda araştırmada, Yozgat özelindeki köylerin iklim değişikliğinin olumsuz etkilerine karşı mücadele etme kapasitelerinin zayıf olduğu sonucu çıkmıştır.