bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ilio-Deep Femoral Bypass – an Alternative Treatment Strategy to Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI)
Authors: Muresan Vasile Adrian , Cosarca Mircea Catalin , Russu Eliza , Niculescu Raluca , Soimu Mihai
Published: July 2021

Background: Critical limb ischemia is considered the most severe form of peripheral artery disease. High morbidity and mortality rates are associated with this pathology due to poor economic management of complications. Case summary: A 68-year-old female patient underwent a routine Doppler ultrasound which revealed the obstruction of both the common and superficial right femoral arteries, as well as the right deep femoral artery. In this case, an iliofemoral bypass was performed using the right deep femoral artery as the outflow artery. Conclusion: Revascularization of the deep femoral artery has a reasonable chance of preserving the ischemic lower limb whenever the common and superficial femoral arteries suffer major atherosclerotic blockages.
Cone Beam Computed Tomography Study on the Incidence of Endodontic Filling Biomaterials Resorption in Patients With/Without Orthodontic Treatment
Authors: Bud Eugen , Păcurar Mariana , Vlasa Alexandru , Bica Cristina , Martha Krisztina , Eșian Daniela , Bukhari Csilla , Lazăr Luminita , Bud Anamaria
Published: July 2021

Background: The differential diagnosis of endodontic and periodontal diseases can sometimes be clinically difficult, but it is vital to establish a correct diagnosis so that predictable treatment can be offered. Aim: The aim of this study was to highlight the prevalence of endo-periodontal lesions in the frontal dental group of the lower jaw depending on the degree of bone resorption as well as endodontic filling resorption in different patients, some of them with orthodontic treatment, using conical beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and methods: A number of 31 CBCT imaging volumes and the medical records of these patients were selected for analysis by an experienced examiner. The sites selected for analysis were divided into two subgroups, one where the endodontic treatment was performed with Endomethasone™ (Colthene, Creteil, France) (7 patients), and the other where it was performed with Adseal™ (Meta Biomed, Seoul, South Korea) (6 patients). Results: The mean age of the study population was 24.1 years, and 35.8% presented previous orthodontic treatment in their medical history. There were no statistically significant differences (p = 0.54) between groups regarding the length of the endodontic filling, the Endomethasone group showing a total length of 11.24 millimeters while the Adseal group showed a total length of 10.85 millimeters. Conclusions: The image obtained in clinical situations in which patients present combined endodontic-periodontal lesions is of real help because in many cases, with the help of CBCT, the starting point of a combined lesion can be highlighted, whether it is endodontic or periodontal.
Assessment of Eating Behavior During the COVID-19 Pandemic Period. A Pilot Study
Authors: Nitu Ionel , Rus Victoria Ancuta , Sipos Remus Sebastian , Nyulas Tiberiu , Cherhat Maria Paula , Ruta Florina , Tita Constanta Corina Nitu
Published: July 2021

Background: In order to counter and control the spread of the new COVID-19 pandemic, at the beginning of March 2020, the Romanian government decided to apply strict isolation and quarantine measures. Objective: In the present study, we aimed to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and isolation/quarantine at home on lifestyle and daily diet, and to identify changes caused by the pandemic related to the nutritional status and food preferences of the Romanian population. Material and Method: We conducted a prospective observational study based on a structured questionnaire that included 30 items for investigating multiple aspects regarding the dietary habits in the context of the pandemic, quarantine and social isolation imposed by the new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The questionnaire was disseminated on various online platforms accessible from any device with an internet connection in Romania, on social media groups between January and March 2021. The questionnaire was made online, using the Google Forms platform, this method being very useful for carrying out the proposed evaluation, as it facilitated the national dissemination of the evaluation questionnaire. The final study group consisted of 620 respondents from 35 counties of Romania. Results: Regarding weight status, we found that the respondents showed significantly more frequent weight fluctuations during the pandemic than before (p <0.0001). The results showed an increase in the mean weight of the respondents during the pandemic vs. their mean weight before (p = 0.04). In contrast, there were no statistically significant differences between the BMI calculated before and during the pandemic (p = 0.3). Respondents, who had a chaotic diet (40.64%) before the pandemic, became significantly more organized in this regard during the pandemic (35.96%) (p = 0.008). Conclusions: We can state that the pandemic period and isolation at home analyzed in terms of eating habits had positive consequences for about half of the study participants which adopted an organized, diversified eating behavior and balanced lifestyle.
Preliminary System Safety Hazard Analysis of a Transport Helicopter SHM System
Authors: Klimaszewski Sławomir , Sajda Krzysztof , Szawłowski Sergiusz
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this paper is to provide the Mi-8/17 helicopter Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) System Preliminary System Safety Hazard Analysis (PSSHA). The PSSHA identifies and classifies potential hazards, and the actions necessary to reduce or eliminate the risks resulting from the installation and operation of SHM System on board of the helicopter. The overall objective of the PSSHA is to establish that the potential Mi 8/17 helicopter modification does not introduce unacceptable hazard conditions to both the helicopter and personnel. The MIL-STD-882 risk assessment methodology is applied to assess hazards and risk acceptance levels for both hardware and software elements of the SHM system.
Small UAV SHM System Functional Hazard Analysis
Authors: Klimaszewski Sławomir , Sajda Krzysztof , Szawłowski Sergiusz
Published: July 2021

The safety assessment process tailored to Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) applications has been discussed briefly. The modified Hazard Reference System for STANAG 4703 Category UAV including Non Safety Effect (NSE) severity category has been proposed. The Functional Hazard Analysis (FHA) for small Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) system has been conducted.
Diagnostics of Turbine Blades, Based on Estimation of Frequency Response Function
Authors: Kotkowski Jerzy , Rokicki Edward , Lindstedt Paweł , Spychała Jarosław , Perczyński Jerzy , Karbowiak Hieronim
Published: July 2021

The aim of the study is to propose a diagnostics method based on blade’s vibration model in frequency domain. Amplitude spectrum A(ω) and phase spectrum φ(ω) have been experimentally identified which define transfer function G(jω) = P(ω) + jQ(ω) and their real P(ω) and imaginary Q(ω) parts. Transfer function G(jω) and resulting frequency, amplitude, phase characteristics and real P(ω) and imaginary Q(ω) parts are parts of blade’s diagnostics model. Changes in those characteristics are directly related to changes in the technical condition of the blades. It has been noticed that small changes in the technical condition cause large changes in frequency characteristics, which proves their usefulness in the diagnosis process.
The Impact of Standard Deviation of Wind on the Bomb Flight in Atmospheric Turbulence
Authors: Kowaleczko Grzegorz , Grajewski Krzysztof , Kobiela Szymon , Kaźmierczak Romuald
Published: July 2021

The paper provides the simulation results of a small-diameter guided training bomb released during atmospheric turbulence. The simulation utilized a guided bombed devised at ITWL. Aerodynamic characteristics of the bomb were obtained from wind tunnel tests and from calculations made by the PRODAS programme. The simulation programme was developed based on a mathematical model describing a spatial motion of an aerial bomb moving in atmospheric turbulence. To describe a turbulence component, the model of stochastic processes proposed by Shinozuki was used. The manuscript includes examples of diagrams of basic parameters showing the bomb flight in a disturbed atmosphere. The analysis of the impact of the standard deviation of the wind on the change in the parameters of bomb flight was performed. The relationships between the parameters of bomb flight and the possibility to hit the target were provided.
Use of Electric Motors in the Context of Glider Aviation
Authors: Kozuba Jarosław , Wojnar Tomasz , Mrozik Magda , Stołtny Bartosz
Published: July 2021

In sailplane aviation, I attach great importance to the achieved aerodynamic parameters due to the main idea of sailplane flights, which is the flight of a sailplane without external energy supply for staying in the air and only in favourable weather conditions, e.g. increasing thermal movements of the air. Only during take-off, external devices, such as a winch or a towing plane, can be used. Therefore, the use of a propulsion installed in sailplanes and operating only during take-off is a very convenient solution. This is a step towards facilitating the access to flying for a wider group of people due to the reduction of costs related to the take-off processes, and also increases the level of safety of sailplane flights by enabling the use of propulsion at critical moments of the flight. The study presents the current trends in the development of gliding, in particular motor gliders. Additionally, as a result of research works, the energy storage system was shown, which is the weakest element of the system, and at the same time the one with the greatest development potential.
Measures Taken by the European Union Agency for Aviation Safety to Ensure Aviation Safety
Authors: Fortońska Agnieszka
Published: July 2021

The author will discuss the subject of aviation safety. The measures taken by EASA to maintain the high standard of aviation safety will be identified. At the same time, the paper will present the genesis of the establishment of the European Union Agency for Aviation Safety.
Reaction Wheel Control System for Cubesat Nanosatellite
Authors: Ślęczek Jakub , Zaborowski Filip
Published: July 2021

Nanosatellites, although originally developed for educational purposes, are increasingly being used for commercial sense. Continuous increase in the application and use means that they require continuous improvement of performance to cope with new challenges. An important issue is the control of the position of the satellite sufficiently accurate and fast to enable it to efficiently carry out its mission. This paper includes a project consisting of a modelled test system and a presented method of control with simulation. Then, the obtained results and resulting conclusions are discussed.
The Impact of Technological Changes of PVC Light Partitions and Glazing on the Risk Connected with the Organization of International Transport
Authors: Karaś Rafał
Published: July 2021

The Author of the article proves that in practice the suitable result concerning the balanced development and the effective use of resources should be controlled simultaneously. The setting of the parameters of thermal isolation for constructional products such as light partitions and glazing (windows and doors) with respect to technological development of products is not enough. Production, the product and its transport makes the whole arrangement of processes that influence the entirety resulting from ecology, transport and the effective use of resources. The only way to meet the demands of the strategy described in the EU documents is to implement such product design that assumes for example the optimal transport possibilities.
The IraunIK and IraunIR Questionnaires: Assessment of Transversal Competencies for Sustainability
Authors: Rekalde-Rodríguez Itziar , Gil-Molina Pilar , Cruz-Iglesias Esther
Published: July 2021

This article shows the design and validation of two questionnaires addressed to students and teachers. The aim is to find out their perception about the competencies and learning outcomes for sustainability that students develop through their participation in the international cross-border project of the Bordeaux-Euskampus “Ocean i3: Blue Skills for the Development of the Blue Economy in the Basque-Aquitaine Cross-Border Coast”. The study population consisted of all the participants of the project: 37 students majoring in Biology, Law, Advertising, Business Administration and Management, Pedagogy, Criminology, Nursing, Engineering and Sports Sciences at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) and the University of Bordeaux (UBx), and 33 undergraduate and postgraduate lecturers from both universities. The article describes the procedure followed for their validity and reliability, and annexes both questionnaires. They may be transferable to other studies that share the same or similar objectives of this study.
Ecologized Collaborative Online International Learning: Tackling Wicked Sustainability Problems Through Education for Sustainable Development
Authors: Adefila Arinola , Arrobbio Osman , Brown Geraldine , Robinson Zoe , Spolander Gary , Soliev Ilkhom , Willers Bret , Morini Luca , Padovan Dario , Wimpenny Katherine
Published: July 2021

Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is increasingly embedded in higher education (HE) due to the current emphasis on tackling the environmental crisis. Similarly, Civic Society Organisations are expanding their mobilization and practical action in communities. These approaches can reach almost all people on the planet and open avenues for effective global action around sustainable development. It is important to connect both learners and develop agents of change in society. In this paper, we focus on how digital resources can support democratization of knowledge production and improve equitable citizen participation in ESD and practical action at the local and global levels.

The paper investigates structures, processes and components that support transnational collaboration in digital spaces, particularly, around the enhancement of sustainable environmental attitudes. We use Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) as a basis to develop EcoCOIL as a versatile model for expanding coalition building tools and principles, to promote environmental citizenship and develop multi-layered communities of practice. Stakeholders include university students and staff, technical experts, business leaders and entrepreneurs, social innovators, policy makers, Community Social Organisations (CSOs), etc. EcoCOIL focuses on co-created wisdom sharing across intercultural, intergenerational and transdisciplinary actors; it brings an innovative, participatory angle to curriculum development by integration of lifelong learning principles and practical facilitation of sustainable behavior within communities in real time.
What Does Education for Sustainable Development Offer in Initial Teacher Training? A Systematic Review
Authors: Pegalajar-Palomino Ma del Carmen , Burgos-García Antonio , Martinez-Valdivia Estefania
Published: July 2021

Promoting Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in higher education implies an improvement and quality in the exercise of responsible citizenship, being the key in the training of future teachers as the main agent of change and transition towards sustainability in society. The aim of this study is to collect and analyze scientific evidence on the attitudes, competences and training of future teachers towards ESD. Therefore, a qualitative methodology has been carried out based on a systematic review of the most important scientific databases (WoS and Scopus). One of the most interesting results shows that there are favorable attitudes of our education students towards sustainability and their commitment to the environment. However, we can conclude that, in the training of our teachers, there is a deficit in the development of professional skills needed to implement ESD (teaching practice) to contribute to social welfare.
The Professional Development of Academic Staff in Higher Education Institution
Authors: Pham Duc Huu
Published: July 2021

Higher education is given increasing recognition by national governments and international agencies throughout the world to become a crucial incentive for sustainable development goals. In the national development of intellectual force at present, the Vietnam policy of education and training, which is of great importance, is the decisive factor for the economic growth and social development as set out by the government. Therefore, the educational development is the responsibility of both the government and the society. It is now clear that the academic staff in higher education institutions is the core force, playing a decisive role in ensuring the quality of higher education as in the case of the International University – Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City. The paper investigated the research studies by the university academic staff through their annual publications and the number of lecturers with Doctoral degrees and professorship. The results showed their research studies contributed to the development of the institution in particular, and at the same time predicted how much the stakeholders benefited from this in general. This study may contribute to developing the quality of higher education institutions regarding the promotion of international publications by the higher education faculties.
Chemiosemiosis and Complex Patterned Signals: A Chemosemiotic Hypothesis of Language Evolution
Authors: Lewis Amelia
Published: July 2021

Olfaction, as a semiotic modality, receives relatively less attention than other sensory modalities. However, chemiosemiosis and semiochemicals are fundamental components of zoosemiosis, occurring across animal taxonomic groups. Indeed, olfaction is thought to be one of the most ancient sensory modalities from an evolutionary perspective and significantly, even unicellular organisms, such as the bacterium Escherichia coli, utilize a form of chemiosemiosis when foraging for nutrients, as part of a process known as ‘chemotaxis’. Further, many taxonomic groups have evolved to produce dedicated ‘semiochemicals’ (often known as pheromones or allomones) which have the sole purpose of being diffused into the environment as a social signal. In this paper, I highlight the importance of Umwelt theory when studying animal communication, by reviewing the less conspicuous and intuitive chemiosemiotic modality, across animal taxa. I then go on to discuss chemiosemiosis within a linguistic framework and argue that complex pattern recognition underpins linguistic theory. Thus, I explore the concept that chemiosemiosis has features in common with language, when the factor of time, in the transmission and decoding of a signal, is taken into account. Moreover, I provide discursive evidence in support of a unified theory of sensory perception, based on structural and functional aspects of signal transmission and cognitive complex pattern recognition. I conclude by proposing a chemosemiotic hypothesis of language evolution.
Rats, Mice and Humans
Authors: Delahaye Pauline
Published: July 2021

This paper will introduce the results of a study conducted in 2019 about how humans perceive species they have to live with, despite not wanting to do so—liminal species—, specifically rats and mice. The results presented here are part of a wider study about rats and mice in cities, their relationship with humans, the nuisances they generate as well as the various and important roles they play in the urban ecosystem, introduced at the Gatherings in BIosemiotics 2020.

The study originally focused solely on rats, which are in a difficult societal context in France, especially in Paris: due to heat waves, planned works and floods, rats are becoming more and more present on the surface, instead of being invisible underground as they used to be. However, some of the results suggest that a significant number of participants are not completely positive about being able to distinguish between a rat and a mouse. In order to present a more precise and detailed overview, it was decided to study the difference not only between the cohabitation issues humans may have with actual rats and/or mice, but also between the semiotic relationships that humans have with the symbolic rat and symbolic mouse. As such, this paper will present the results for both species, with their similarities and divergences.

It shows that a significant part of nuisances and cohabitation issues are more “believed” than factual. The paper focuses on how the cultural and emotional backgrounds of participants influence their semiotic relationship with these species, and how the perceived nuisances, threats or issues can vary according to these parameters.

This study aims to develop a better understanding of the different elements that play a part in issues of cohabitation between humans—especially urban humans—and liminal species—especially rodents. It will show how some of the nuisances can be addressed, not by coercive methods on the actual animals, such as extermination, repellents or removal, but through semiotic work and education on the symbolic animal, its related myths, superstitions, fears and phobias.
Imitation as Mechanism for Mimicry
Authors: Jarosek Stephen
Published: July 2021

The neo-Darwinian paradigm is unable to account for the resilient, complex forms that evolve in nature and persist across time. Random mutations do not explain the occurrence of organisms that mimic complex forms in often astonishing detail. In the absence of God as creator, or random mutations as the basis for adaptive traits, there is something else going on. The case that I present in this article is that the only possible mechanism for mimicry in nature is imitation.
Metaphors to Survive by: Mimicry as Biometaphors, Embodiment of Sign and Cognitive Tools (not only) in Animals?
Authors: Bohát Róbert
Published: July 2021

Can Cognitive Metaphor Theory (CMT) be applied productively to the study of mimicry in zoosemiotics and ethology? In this theoretical comparison of selected case studies, I would like to propose that biological mimicry is a type of biosemiotic metaphor. At least two major parallels between cognitive metaphors in human cognition and mimicry among animals justify viewing the two phenomena as isomorphic. First—from the semiotic point of view—the argument is that both metaphor and mimicry are cases of semiotic transfer (etymologically: metaphor) of the identity / sign of the source onto the perceived identity / sign of the target. This identity transfer, in turn, triggers appropriate changes in the response (behavior) of the surrounding (human or animal) interpreters (e.g. predators). Semiotically, the mimicry turns the body of its bearer into a sign of something else, resulting in the interpreters’ (e.g. predators’) perception of species X as species Y—hence, a type of embodied sign and cognitive metaphor. Second, ecologically, a species occupying one niche (e.g. a moth: non-venomous, herbivorous primary consumer) is perceived and identified as an occupant of a different niche (e.g. a hornet: venomous, omnivorous predator). Thus, a potential predator’s Umwelt is affected by its perceiving a hornet moth as “a hornet” where there is, in fact, a moth, and its response to this stimulus will not be predation but avoidance. In terms of CMT, we could call this a biosemiotic metaphor (bio-metaphor), e.g. “A MOTH IS A HORNET” or “PREY IS A PREDATOR”. Further correspondences between mimicry and metaphor include the fact that this bio-metaphorical identification by mimicry does not typically require a “perfect” resemblance between the source and the target sign (or species); this seems to correspond to the prototype categorization in CMT where categories are “open-ended” and only a partial similarity is sufficient for metaphorical identification (compare Lakoff, Johnson 1980; Rosch 1983). Such an identification of mimicry as metaphor could be based on Prodi’s argument that “hermeneutics is not a late product of culture, but the same elementary movement of life that is born because something obscurely interprets something else” (Eco 2018: 350; Kull 2018, 352—364). Inasmuch as animal Umwelten are interconnected inter alia by this natural hermeneutics, the trans-disciplinary approach to the study eco-zoosemiotic interpretants on the basis of metaphor-mimicry isomorphism could open new opportunities in comparative studies of semiosis in human and animal cognition and interactions.
Isolation Rate of Campylobacter Spp. and Detection of Virulence Genes of Campylobacter jejuni Across the Broiler Chain
Authors: Angelovski Ljupco , Popova Zagorka , Blagoevska Katerina , Mojsova Sandra , Manovska Marija Ratkova , Prodanov Mirko , Jankuloski Dean , Sekulovski Pavle
Published: July 2021

The aim of the study was to identify the isolation rate of thermotolerant campylobacters in a small-scale broiler-meat production farm over a one-year period. The second deliverable of the study was to determine the potential virulence markers. The laboratory investigation was performed on 283 samples (cloacal swabs, caeca, carcass swabs) collected on three sampling points (farm, slaughter line, and cold storage). The isolates obtained with the conventional microbiological method were confirmed with multiplex PCR for identification of campylobacters. The presence of 10 virulence genes was analyzed in the C. jejuni isolates (flaA, racR, virB11, dnaJ, wlaN, cadF, ciaB, cdtA, cdtB, cdtC). Out of 283 samples, 169 (59.7%) were confirmed as Campylobacter spp., 111 (39.2%) C. jejuni, and 43 (15.2%) C. coli. C. jejuni was the most prevalent in all sampling points. Campylobacter spp. showed a characteristically seasonal prevalence with the highest isolation rate during the warmer period of the year. We detected the cadF and ciaB genes in all C. jejuni isolates. The flaA gene was present in 50% of the examined strains. The cdt genes (cdtA, cdtB, and cdtC) were confirmed in 52.8%, 52.8%, and 47.2% of the C. jejuni strains, respectively. C. jejuni showed 15 profiles of virulence patterns with four predominant profiles.
Packaging as a Purchase Determinanton the Dietary Supplement Market in Poland
Authors: Ankiel Magdalena , Majewska Paulina , Urbaniak Maciej
Published: July 2021

Unit packaging of dietary supplements - an inherent element of their manufacturing, without which they would be impossible to market — has numerous interlocking functions to fulfil, including the protective, transport, information, functional, ecological and marketing functions. The information function, however, is one of the priority functions of dietary supplement packaging. In the era of the continual development of online and self-service stores (including pharmacies), such packaging has become one of the key sources of information about dietary supplements’ features and properties, while also serving as a brand image creator and a carrier of promotional information. This raises the questions of whether and to what extent the unit packaging of dietary supplements influences the purchasing decisions of consumers, what features and elements of such packaging are crucial for consumers in the purchasing process, and what significance supplement packaging has in the purchasing process against the background of other purchasing determinants. Seeking to address these questions, herein we present selected results of an original study conducted in 2019 with a purposely selected sample of 468 dietary supplement consumers in Poland, whose main purpose was to identify the role and significance of packaging as a determinant of purchase in relation to three selected categories of dietary supplements..
Shape and Size of Particles Scaled from Concrete Surfaces during Salt Frost Testing and Rapid Freeze/thaw in Water
Authors: Brun Marte Beheim , Shpak Andrei , Jacobsen Stefan
Published: July 2021

Thickness (T), Length (L), Width (W) and size distribution of scaled concrete particles in frost testing were measured. T (mm) increases with particle size surprisingly similarly for different concrete qualities and frost test methods. 2T/(L+W) reduces as function of size and is lowest for the largest particles of the salt scaling test: 0.1 – 0.15 but increases if large aggregate particles scale. Particle size distributions from salt frost testing peak for particles of 1-2 mm. The particles are flakier compared to particles from freeze/thaw in water which also have flatter size distribution no matter type of concrete or degree of damage. Scaling in water is not so efficiently reduced by air voids despite protecting very efficiently against internal damage and scaling in salt frost testing. Comparisons with T predicted by the glue spall model (≈3/4 × ice thickness) and the air void dependent (≈3× critical air void spacing) model proposed by Fagerlund are difficult due to the size dependent flake thickness. Image analysis could well describe shape. Further studies of concrete flake thickness scaled at varying thickness of ice layers are proposed.
Locally Produced UHPC: The Influence of Type and Content of Steel Fibres
Authors: Lande Ingrid , Thorstensen Rein Terje
Published: July 2021

Ultra-high performance concrete might be a competitive alternative to normal concrete for some purposes. But despite research efforts during decades, utilisation is still not widespread. Reasons include limited competence and material availability. This paper presents one step of a research initiative aimed at facilitating the use of UHPC in Norway. The step presented here comprises the accumulated results from investigations on the influence steel fibres (content, type, and hybrid combination) have on material strength and deformation behaviour of locally produced UHPC, made with constituents found in southern Norway. 231 specimens were tested, spanning nine UHPC mixes. Digital Image Correlation (DIC) was successfully used to study crack propagation. Compressive strength of 166 MPa and E-modulus of 46 GPa were obtained, not being influenced by fibre content. The flexural tensile strength was found to be strongly dependent on variations in steel fibre properties and mix design. The highest flexural tensile strength was obtained for prisms with micro straight steel fibres alone, or in 50% combination with macro hooked-end fibres. The experimental results are considered in a theory-informed discussion. Suggestions are made on the use of steel fibres in locally produced UHPC, potentially lowering the cost by 30%.
Decreasing Carbon Footprint of Block of Flats – Concrete Technology Possibilities
Authors: Lahdensivu Elina , Lahdensivu Jukka
Published: July 2021

Construction business along with other businesses have set carbon neutrality goals in the following years. To reach these goals a lot needs to be done fairly quickly. The high impact of concrete production on carbon emissions has been known for years and solutions for this problem are studied in this paper through supplementary cementing materials.

Ordinary Portland cement can be replaced partly but not completely with cement replacing materials since the strength properties are lost at replacement level higher than 80%. These replacing binders can be pulverized fly ash, blast furnace slag or silica fume.

The use of the new low-carbon products can half the embodied carbon for the bearing frame of the building. The total area of a certain structure type is important since replacing its cement can have much higher impact on the total carbon footprint than replacing it for a single structure type that has fairly small area in the building.
Challenges of the Output-Employment Growth Imbalance in Transition Economies
Authors: Mihajlović Vladimir , Marjanović Gordana
Published: July 2021

The trade-off between output and unemployment has become an essential part of modern macroeconomics and is known as Okun’s law. However, in transition and emerging markets economies’ context, the output-employment nexus has a much more important role as these countries strive to significantly improve the growth dynamics of both variables. This paper aims to analyze the particularities of this relationship in selected Central- and South-Eastern European transition (and former transition) countries to find out a discrepancy between the output and employment growth. Therefore, the employment elasticity coefficients are calculated. The estimated results suggest that, in the observed period, economic growth has not contributed to satisfactory employment growth, which is commonly referred to as a “jobless growth” hypothesis. Accordingly, this paper attempts to single out the main challenges of the output-employment growth misbalance in these countries and propose adequate policy measures that could reduce it. The industrial policy that differentiates from the “one-size-fits-all” paradigm is emphasized as the most important part of macroeconomic policy in transition economies to make their development more balanced. Additionally, short-run stabilization policy, especially the one focused on the labour market, has a significant role in these economies.
Market Efficiency of Euro Exchange Rates and Trading Strategies
Authors: Bošnjak Mile , Novak Ivan , Vlajčić Davor
Published: July 2021

This paper tests the hypothesis on market efficiency for returns on the euro against fifteen currencies while assuming predictability of returns, dependent on the sign and magnitude of endogenous shocks. Considering the properties of exchange rate returns, the quantile autoregression approach was selected in empirical analysis. Based on the research data sample, consisting of daily exchange rates between January first, 1999, and April thirty, 2020, the paper suggests profitable trading strategies depending on a currency pair. In the case of six out of fifteen currency pairs, exchange rate returns were found non-predictable or almost non-predictable. In the case of nine considered currency pairs, there was a significant linkage between current and past exchange rate returns, found as dependent on the sign and magnitude of endogenous shocks in exchange rate returns. Finally, the paper considered possible factors of inefficiency and suggested further research of the topic.
Sustainable Transport of Goods Using Combined Transport Solutions: The Case of EU
Authors: Minárik Marek
Published: July 2021

This paper analyzes the importance of bimodal solutions in the rail-road transport of goods with an emphasis on the aspect of ecology within the geographical region of EU-28. Using the panel regression analysis in the period from 2010 to 2019, we are trying to confirm the dependence between the road and rail transport of goods by applying several freight units’ measures: the freight transport performance in tonne-kilometres, the freight transport performance in tonne-kilometres per thousand of USD, and the amount of goods transported in thousands of tonnes. The application of data to all selected freight units’ measures in the regression models confirms a relationship between road and rail transport. A direct relationship between these two modes of transport confirms the complementarity effect, which means that, in most cases, the goods transport solutions require the combination of road and rail mode, where the railway should be considered as the main transport/carrier, the road transport, however, should have the role of short pre-transport or post-transport. The ecological aspect of such bimodal solutions can also be emphasized since the railway transport is considered as an ecological mode.
Elderly Population and Labour Market Stabilization in Europe - The Case of Slovenia
Authors: Ovin Rasto , Divjak Marko , Čič Živa Veingerl , Maček Anita
Published: July 2021

The growing share of the retired population in Europe worsens the balance of the social costs as social consensus in most European countries rests on extensive social transfers for this population group. With its 25% share in GDP and 50% share in social transfers, the European (continental) model is indeed not sustainable when compared globally. The current prevailing model of “rejuvenation” of the labour market through immigration did not prove as a sustainable solution. The same is valid for the perspective of fast technological change. It is based on filling the labour market with low-paid jobs enabling host economies to leave aside the imperative permanent change in the labour market structure. This paper discusses the case of Slovenia and tries to search the reasons for the absence of elderly population in the labour market in this country. Based on the data comparison and disposable studies, authors try to identify the main issues when endeavouring to keep elderly population in the labour market.
The resilience of Rubiaceae to anthropogenic factors: a case study from the Himalayan range of Western Bhutan
Authors: Tobgay  , Jamtsho Tenzin , Sridith Kitichate
Published: July 2021

The study about the resilience of Rubiaceae to the influence of anthropogenic factors was conducted along the altitudinal gradient of 300–3900 m asl. in Western Bhutan. The survey covered three types of forest, categorized based on the prevalence of anthropogenic disturbances and assessed the diversity of Rubiaceae species in each forest type. The study recorded a total of 54 Rubiaceae species belonging to 41 genera from the study sites. The high diversity of Rubiaceae in the intermediately disturbed forest as revealed by Simpson and Shannon-Wiener diversity analysis and further strengthened by a between-group one-way ANOVA analysis contradicts the presumed description of Rubiaceae as ecologically sensitive. The wider adaptability range exhibited by Ceriscoides (Hook.f.) Tirvendadum, Himalrandia Yamazaki, Uncaria Schreber, and Leptodermis Wall. showing presence in all the forest categories indicates a higher survival rate of these genera. On the contrary, the species showing a higher rate of confinement to a specific habitat bears higher risk of extinction due to ever-rising anthropogenic disturbances. As such, an exhaustive research assessing the impact of different categories of anthropogenic factors on different species of Rubiaceae is required to understand the overall resilience of the family to the anthropogenic disturbances.
Immediate Effects of Prescribed Burning on Soil Mite (Acari: Oribatida) Communities in a Scots Pine (Pinus Sylvestris) Forest, Latvia
Authors: Šķērstiņa Rebeka , Kagainis Uģis
Published: July 2021

Prescribed burning is used to maintain and restore habitats, to protect and increase species bio-diversity. Knowledge about soil fauna is limited, especially on community responses to fire disturbances. The aim of this study was to determine the immediate effects of prescribed burning on soil armoured mite (Acari: Oribatida) communities, vegetation cover and soil physiochemical properties in a boreal Scots pine forest in Latvia. Soil samples were collected on the day of the prescribed burning in the protected landscape area “Ādaži” and 16 days after. No significant changes in abiotic factors were found. Fire significantly decreased the vegetation cover. After the burning, the total number of oribatid mites decreased by 93%, and the number of species by 77%. Changes in oribatid mite communities were significantly influenced by fire severity. The number of individuals decreased among all taxa, except Brachychthonioidea spp. and Cosmochthonius lanathus. A significant decrease in abundance was observed in previously abundant species — Suctobelbella spp., Oppiella nova and Tectocepheus velatus. After the burning, Suctobelbella spp. was an eudominant and Tectocepheus spp. was a dominant genus.
Imaging the Other Side of the Iron Curtain: Then and Now. Oral History Research Conducted in Eastern Slovakia
Authors: Otčenášová Slávka
Published: July 2021

For forty years, the Iron Curtain was a symbol of a Europe divided between Soviet and Western influence. Powers on each side of the border invested huge efforts into creating ideologically motivated images of theOther. The article presents the outcomes of biographical research which offers an insight into how aged people in Eastern Slovakia remember their pre-1989 perceptions of the Western Block and how they think of life in the West today, focusing on the main element of their memories in this respect – emigration. It is the outcome of a broader oral history project being conducted in Slovakia since 2017, aiming to obtain and analyse current images of socialism, as communicated today by the generation of witnesses who were living their adult lives during the period spanning between the 1960s and the 1980s; and understanding the relations between the current attitudes and values of the respondents and their experience of life in state socialist regimes.
“vírus” da exclusão socioeconômico-digital no ensino superior em tempos de COVID-19
Authors: Freitas Marinaide , Freitas Antonio , Torres Andresso , Santos Ana Luísa
Published: July 2021

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar os achados de uma pesquisa matriz denominada “Pandemia e educação: narrativas de estudantes do ensino superior público do Estado de Alagoas, Brasil” que, no ano de 2020, problematizou: qual a situação dos/as estudantes em termos de acesso à Internet e aos equipamentos disponíveis para a participação de aulas on-line durante a fase mais aguda da Covid-19? A partir da abordagem quantiqualitativa, e na tentativa de “responder” essa problemática, utilizamos como fontes questionários e sessões conversa on-line com estudantes dos cursos de licenciatura em Pedagogia e de bacharelado em Jornalismo do Campus Maceió, da Universidade Federal de Alagoas. Nesse percurso, caracterizamos os sujeitos estudantes como praticantespensantes, heróis anônimos, que reinventaram novas maneiras de fazer e de estudar, nos âmbitos pessoal, doméstico e acadêmico. As narrativas demonstraram a preexistência do vírus da desigualdade nos contextos socioeconômicos e digitais dos/as estudantes dos cursos investigados antes do estado pandêmico, que foram desvelados durante a tragédia provocada pela Covid-19, na história presente (2020-2021).

 

Submetido: 05.02.2021

Aceite: 21.05.2021
ensino on-line em período de confinamento
Authors: Batista Paula , Amaral-da-Cunha Mariana , Silva Elsa , O’Hara Kelly , Graça Amândio
Published: July 2021

Explorar as vozes de estudantes estagiários/as de Educação Física acerca do processo de reconfiguração do ensino presencial para o ensino on-line foi o propósito deste estudo. Foram incluídas 48 narrativas de estudantes-estagiários/as de quatro instituições de ensino superior de formação de professores de Educação Física em Portugal. A análise temática teve como conceitos sensibilizadores os elementos essenciais para a transação educativa (Garrison et al.), as caraterísticas pedagógicas que influenciam as experiências dos/as alunos/as no uso de dispositivos digitais (Kearney et al.) e o papel das emoções no aprender a ser professor/a (Zembylas). O empobrecimento do currículo, focado nas áreas da aptidão e dos conhecimentos, aliado à ausência de corpos (dos/as próprios/as estagiários/as e dos/as alunos/as) e de ‘toque’ comprometeu a aprendizagem de alunos/as e estagiários/as. A tecnologia, quando usada para promover o envolvimento, a comunicação e as interações, evitou que o espaço virtual se tornasse num ‘não lugar’. Os imperativos burocráticos, de regulação e controlo, comprometeram a aprendizagem e a função formativa da avaliação. O sentimento dos/as estagiários/as foi de perda por não interagirem presencialmente com os/as seus/suas alunos/as, mas também foi um desafio e um reconquistar de espaço de agenciamento junto aos/às orientadores/as.

 

Submetido: 15.02.2021

Aceite: 20.05.2021
Awareness, attitude, and acceptance of teenage girls toward going to gynecology clinic
Authors: Abudoraehem Ohoud , Alhindi Ghada , Alosaimi Amal , Khaled Mohammed , Felemban Razan
Published: July 2021

Background: Adolescence is the teenage phase; this period involves a transition and development from childhood to adulthood. Puberty in girls occurs earlier than males; females in the puberty phase experience various changes, including the menstrual cycle. Some abnormalities may occur during puberty, such as menstrual bleeding abnormalities, urogenital dysfunction, and inflammatory process, requiring consulting a gynecologist. This study was aimed to assess the awareness, attitude, and acceptance of teenage girls toward visiting the gynecological clinic.
Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study performed using a non-probability sampling technique. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed online. All statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software version 22.
Results: This study included 512 teenage females; the large majority was Saudi, 97.3%, and the mean ± SD age of all participants was 16.25 ± 1.6. The primary source of information about puberty was friends, and the most significant proportion of females, 34.2%, reported the first period at 12 years of age. There were 80.3% who knew about puberty; the knowledge of puberty among females was significantly influenced by age (p = 0.0001), education of the mothers (p = 0.01), income (p = 0.04), and source of information about puberty (p = 0.01). Only 19.5% reported visiting gynecology clinics before; each age, level of education of the mother and the father significantly affected the visiting of females (p = 0.009, 0.04, 0.02) respectively.
Conclusion: This study revealed that teenage girls have good knowledge about puberty; the primary source of information was friends. The teenage girls have a positive attitude to visit the gynecologists, and they were aware of the necessity of the services provided by the gynecologist.
“Want to hear my story?” Developing Latino children’s written narratives through culturally relevant family photographs
Authors: Alanís Iliana , Cataldo Raquel
Published: July 2021

Research supports the importance of developing early literacy skills through culturally relevant activities and school/home partnerships as essential ingredients in high quality early learning environments (Bentley & Souto-Manning, 2019; Gay, 2000). Educators, however, frequently dismiss the significance of honoring a child’s first language, family, and culture when developing early literacy skills (Purcell-Gates, Melzi, Najafi, & Orellana, 2011). Integrating children’s linguistic and cultural understandings, however, is valuable and meaningful for their academic success and overall development (González, Moll, & Amanti, 2005). The purpose of this study was to explore children’s narratives as a culturally relevant practice that promotes early writing. Using student data from a prekindergarten dual language classroom, we found that using family pictures from home provided multiple iterations of children’s stories and demonstrated how Latino families’ cultural experiences are significant for the development of children’s emergent writing development. Implications for practice are discussed.