bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamics of ideal illumination: a novel figure of merit for characterizing illumination efficiency
Authors: Ferry Jonathan , Jiang Lun , Winston Roland
Published: December 2019

The advancement of modern lighting technologies has led to many revolutions in lighting efficiency and presentation. The progression from filament bulbs, to CFL, and now LED technologies have produced a bounty of energy-efficient lighting options for design engineers and consumers. As the light-producing elements of a lighting fixture improve, the limiting factor in efficient illumination is no longer the light source, but the optical system itself. There are many characterization methods and standards for defining light for illumination in terms of color and human response. With concerns of how things like light pollution and energy requirements impact our society and the world around us, it is critical to understand how well a lighting fixture can illuminate a desired area while minimizing light lost to the environment and maximizing the total radiative intensity (radiance) of a space. This work presents two figures of merit, one for over-illumination and another for under-illumination, to characterize the optics of a lighting system based on a ray tracing methodology. Five common simplified optical design, with four varying beam angles, were simulated to present these new figures of merit. Results showed that common imaging optical systems such as parabolic and ellipse reflectors struggled to produce a well-lit area without over illumination, while nonimaging alternatives like the compound parabolic and compound elliptical reflectors were able to reach the thermodynamic ideal of a fully illuminated area without light lost to the environment. This work hopes to inform illumination engineers and lighting designers to help improve their optical design to maximize performance and minimize waste.
Experiments all the way in programmatic design research
Authors: Bang Anne Louise , Eriksen Mette Agger
Published: December 2019

Experiments take various forms, have various purposes, and generate various knowledge; depending on how, when and why they are integrated in a design research study with a programmatic approach. This is what we will argue for throughout this article using examples and experiences from our now finalized Ph.D. studies. Reviewing the prevailing literature on research through design the overall argument is that design experiments play a core role both in conducting the research, in theory construction and in knowledge generation across the different design domains and methodological directions. However, we did not identify sources that explicitly discuss and operationalize roles and characteristics of design experiments in different stages of programmatic design research. The aim of this article is therefore to outline a (tentative) systematic account of roles and characteristics of design experiments. Building upon Schön’s definition of experiments in practice we propose adding to the prevailing understanding of experiments in research through design understanding and operationalizing design experiments (1) as initiators or drivers framing a research programme, (2) as ways to reflect on and mature the research programme serving as vehicles for theory construction and knowledge generation and finally (3) as a ‘designerly’ approach to the written knowledge dissemination and clarification of research contributions.
Gathering “Mouse Roots,” Among the Naukan and Chukchi of the Russian Far East
Authors: Jernigan Kevin , Belichenko Olga , Kolosova Valeria , Orr Darlene , Pupynina Maria
Published: December 2019

The authors worked from 2014–2016, with 67 Naukan and Chukchi participants in six villages on the subject of “mouse roots,” a category of edible plants, including tubers of five species, taken from caches of Microtus voles. Only eight out of 44 Chukchi and none of the Naukan respondents said that they still actively gather these foods. However, 43 out of 44 Chukchi and 21 out of 23 Naukan participants still possess specific knowledge of the process, for example: how to find nests, proper techniques and etiquette for gathering, storage, preparation, or botanical identity of species found. This reflects the rapid cultural changes that occurred during the Soviet period, including collectivization and consolidation of the population into larger villages. The maintenance of knowledge about resources that no longer play a large role in subsistence never-the-less aids in the resilience of local people to potential economic hardship and food insecurity. This particular relationship between humans, rodents, and plants provides an opportunity to examine the strengths and limitations for applying the concept of perspectivism in this cultural setting. These Chukotkan “mouse root” traditions show commonalities with similar practices among the neighboring Iñupiaq and Central Alaskan Yup’ik communities. Most notably, species gathered from rodent nests are similar on both sides of the Bering Strait as are rules for how to show proper respect to the animals when gathering. However, methods of preparation differ significantly between Chukotkan and Alaskan cultures.
Insights on the Cenozoic Geology of North Beirut (Harbour Area): Biostratigraphy; Sedimentology and Structural history
Authors: Noujaim Clark Germaine , Boudagher-Fadel Marcelle
Published: December 2019

The biostratigraphy and sedimentology of the outcrops and bedrock exposed in archaeological excavations around the harbour area of Beirut (~5 km
2) unlock the geological and structural history of that area, which in turn are key to understanding the hydrocarbon and hydrogeological potential of the region. A key location (Site 2) of a studied outcrop section and newly uncovered bedrock is on the northern foothill cliff of East Beirut (Achrafieh). The outcrop section of carbonates is of Eocene beds overlain by conformable Miocene beds. The excavation of the slope bordering the outcrop uncovers a bedrock section of an early Pliocene shoreline of carbonate/siliciclastic sands at its base and a beach-rock structure at top. The age of the shoreline section is dated by an assemblage of
planktonic foraminifera including
Sphaeroidinellopsis subdehiscens,
Sphaeroidinella

dehiscens, and
Orbulina universa. The Eocene carbonates of Site 2 extend the coverage of the previously reported Eocene outcrops in the harbour area. They form a parasequence of thin bedded chalky white limestones that includes the youngest fossil fish deposits in Lebanon (
Bregmaceros filamentosus). The deposits are dated as early Priabonian by their association with the planktonic foraminiferal assemblage of
Porticulasphaera tropicalis,
Globigerinatheka barri,
Dentoglobigerina venezuelana,

Globigerina praebulloides,
Turborotalia centralis and
Borelis sp. The Middle Miocene carbonates that conformably overlie the early Priabonian parasequence, include a planktonic foraminiferal assemblage of
Globigerinoides trilobus, Orbulina universa and

Borelis melo. Elsewhere, in the harbour area, the preserved Eocene limestones are equally directly overlain by conformable Miocene carbonate parasequences of the Langhian - Serravallian age. Younger argillaceous limestone beds of the Mio/Pliocene age occur in the eastern central part of the harbour area and enclose an assemblage of
Truncorotalia crassaformis,
Globorotalia inflata, and
Orbulina universa. The three markers of old and recently raised structural blocks in the harbour area are a Lutetian/Bartonian marine terrace in the south west corner, a lower Pliocene shoreline carbonate section in the north east side and a Holocene raised beach of marine conglomerates in the north east corner of the area. The locations of these paleo-shorelines, less than 2 kms apart, indicate a progressive platform narrowing of North Beirut since the Paleogene. This study underpins the geological complexity of the region and contributes to understanding the underlying geology which will be needed for future archaeological, hydrocarbon and hydrogeological exploration.
IgG4-associated disease in differential diagnosis of inflammatory orbitopathy
Authors: Grusha Yaroslav O. , Ismailova Dilyara S. , Sviridenko Natalya Yu. , Novikov Pavel I. , Kovrigina Alla M.
Published: December 2019

IgG4-associated disease (IgG4-RD) is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by tumorlike sclerosing masses in different organs. Differential diagnosis in orbital IgG4-RD includes majority of conditions, such as thyroid eye disease (TED), sarcoidosis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis, idiopatic orbital inflammation, limphoproliferative diseases and others. A case of IgG4-RD with different organs involvement and complicated differential diagnosis is presented. This case demonstrates very uncommon manifestation of IgG4-RD, when orbital involvement was very similar with TED. Systemic process was not recognized during a long period of time and diagnosis of IgG4-RD was established only after biopsy of abnormally increased lacrimal gland. Differential diagnosis included other systemic diseases, first of all sarcoidosis, GPA, and lymphoma. Biopsy results were consistent with the gold standard of diagnosis, e. g. more than 40% of plasma cells were IgG4 positive. This case demonstrates the necessity of orbital biopsy before starting immunosuppression to avoid inappropriate treatment strategy.
Between race and class
Authors: Avelar Marcus Vinicius
Published: December 2019

In this essay, I investigate (socio)linguistic scholarship on African continuities in Brazilian Portuguese to analyze the semiotic ideologies that inform academic literature on this topic. I argue that there are two main schools of thought within this field: the one that sees race as a prominent analytical category, and the one that favors social class over race. I claim that there are three commonalities to different frameworks analyzed here: (1) racialized speech is often equated with Africannes; (2) Africanness is commonly treated as an index of pre-modern times; and (3) Africanness is perceived as foreign to the modern present. In addition, I also suggest that authors who privilege social class over race – as an analytical tool – might be aligned with the ideology of racial democracy.
O deslocamento populacional como fator propulsor da mudança linguística
Authors: Lucchesi Dante
Published: December 2019

O artigo analisa o efeito do deslocamento populacional na implementação de mudanças linguísticas em uma variedade do português popular brasileiro, o português afro-brasileiro, no contexto da polarização sociolinguística do Brasil. O algoritmo da polarização sociolinguística prevê um nivelamento linguístico, com a difusão das variantes linguísticas de prestígio nas grandes cidades para todas as classes sociais e para todas as regiões do país, desencadeando mudanças “de cima para baixo” na norma popular do português brasileiro, em que as antigas formas produzidas pelo contato entre línguas no passado estão sendo substituídas pelas formas urbanas com prestígio social. O deslocamento de indivíduos de comunidades rurais para os centros urbanos em busca de trabalho e o seu retorno às suas comunidades de origem têm sido um fator que impulsiona essas mudanças. Para comprovar essa hipótese, foram computados os resultados quantitativos da variável explanatória referente ao deslocamento populacional produzidos por dez análises sociolinguísticas sobre aspectos da morfossintaxe em variação na fala de comunidades rurais afro-brasileiras isoladas. Os dados empíricos comprovaram a hipótese, demonstrando que o deslocamento populacional é realmente um fator propulsor da mudança linguística no contexto social observado.
Português de contato com alemão como língua de imigração em uma comunidade rural brasileira
Authors: Battisti Elisa , Link Eugenio Roberto
Published: December 2019

O artigo investiga a elevação variável das vogais médias /e, o/ postônicas finais (film[e] ~ film[ɪ], tud[o] ~ tud[ʊ]) no português de contato com alemão em uma comunidade rural do sul do Brasil na perspectiva da sociolinguística variacionista (LABOV, 1972). Os baixos índices de elevação, 3,2 % de aplicação a /e/, 13 % de aplicação a /o/, são motivados por um traço morfossintático da língua de imigração e condicionados pelos contextos fonológico precedente e seguinte.
Ionospheric induced plasma disturbances afore the m7.9 eastern Sichuan china earthquake of 12th may, 2008
Authors: E. Thomas Jewel , J. George Nyakno , M. Ekanem Aniekan , E. Ekpenyong Nsikak
Published: December 2019

A great number of earthquakes occur yearly in different areas and almost 100 -120 of them have a magnitude above 5. These seismic activities are very harmful for the inhabitants. Findings reveal that this seismo-electro-magnetic abnormality is a mirror image of some processes, which originated a few weeks before the main event and stay until few days after it. Plasma ion analyser (IAP) and Instrument Sonde de Langmuir (ISL) sensors) experiments available on Detection of Electromagnetic Emissions Transmitted from Earthquake Regions (DEMETER) and Total Electron Content (TEC) from Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites, were employed to study the variations of electron and ion density for ionospheric disturbances before the M7.9 Eastern Sichuan China earthquake of 12th May, 2008. The study revealed seismo-ionospheric induced perturbations exactly three weeks afore the earthquake in all four investigated parameters. Electron density recorded 16.94 cm-3, electron temperature revealed - 2.25 o C while total ion density displayed 6.57 cm-1. The total electron content ranged from 4.28 to 3.6. The disturbance storm time (Dst) and planetary 3-hourly range (Kp) indices were used to classify pre-earthquake anomalies from the other anomalies associated with geomagnetic activities and was seen that this day (-21days relative to the earthquake) was devoid of geomagnetic storm, thus the observed perturbations were seismo-induced but not geomagnetic induced.
Normalized multi-bump solutions for saturable Schrödinger equations
Authors: Wang Xiaoming , Wang Zhi-Qiang
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we are concerned with the existence of multi-bump solutions for a class of semiclassical saturable Schrödinger equations with an density function:

$$\begin{array}{} \displaystyle -{\it\Delta} v +{\it\Gamma} \frac{I(\varepsilon x) + v^2}{1+I(\varepsilon x) +v^2} v =\lambda v,\, x\in{{\mathbb{R}}^{2}}. \end{array}$$

We prove that, with the density function being radially symmetric, for given integerk≥ 2 there exist a family of non-radial,k-bump type normalized solutions (i.e., with theL2constraint) which concentrate at the global maximum points of density functions whenε→ 0+. The proof is based on a variational method in particular on a convexity technique and the concentration-compactness method.
Mechanical characterization of pore-graded bioactive glass scaffolds produced by robocasting
Authors: Barberi Jacopo , Nommeots-Nomm Amy , Fiume Elisa , Verné Enrica , Massera Jonathan , Baino Francesco
Published: December 2019

Since the discovery of 45S5 Bioglass® by Larry Hench, bioactive glasses have been widely studied as bone substitute materials and, in more recent years, have also shown great promise for producing three-dimensional scaffolds. The development of additive manufacturing techniques and their application in bone tissue engineering allows the design and fabrication of complex structures with controlled porosity. However, achieving strong and mechanically-reliable bioactive glass scaffolds is still a great challenge. Furthermore, there is a relative paucity of studies reporting an exhaustive assessment of other mechanical properties than compressive strength of glass-derived scaffolds. This research work aimed at determining key mechanical properties of silicate SiO2-Na2O-K2OMgO-CaO-P2O5 glass scaffolds fabricated by robocasting and exhibiting a porosity gradient. When tested in compression, these scaffolds had a strength of 6 MPa, a Young’s modulus around 340 MPa, a fracture energy of 93 kJ/m3 and a Weibull modulus of 3, which provides a quantification of the scaffold reliability and reproducibility. Robocasting was a suitable manufacturing method to obtain structures with favorable porosity and mechanical properties comparable to those of the human cancellous bone, which is fundamental regarding osteointegration of bone implants.
The Use of Alliteration in a Norwegian Medieval Law – just for Fun?
Authors: Landro Torgeir
Published: December 2019

The article explores the use of alliteration in an ecclesiastical law from medieval Norway. While earlier scholars considered alliteration to be a remnant from preliterate times, von See’s and Ehrhardt’s studies revealed that alliteration was more frequent in younger laws, and therefore supposedly introduced by the Church and the royal government. The material from the Norwegian law confirms that the alliterative formulations are added later on. However, in this particular case, the alliteration has contributed to corrupting the content, an observation which clashes with the ideal of clarity, which was also important in medieval canon law. This fact, in turn, leads to the conclusion that the paragraph draws on different legal traditions, both native, customary law and learned, canon law.
Krise, kærlighed og katastrofe. Den knap så opbyggelige rejses erotik i Jan Sonnergaards roman Frysende våde vejbaner
Authors: Wenusch Monica
Published: December 2019

In Jan Sonnergaard’s novel Frysende våde vejbaner (2015) the interconnection between travelling and eroticism constitutes a crucial element of the text’s structure. On his journey the novel’s main protagonist, Jesper, a middle-aged man, experiences liberation and relief from his everyday frustrations through erotic indulgence. The journey, the indulgence as well as the erotic love are capable of healing Jesper from his severe existential crisis. Nevertheless, Jesper is heading towards disaster, as his new life eventually turns out to be based on his girlfriend’s well-thought-out lies and her deception. Consequently, Jesper’s regained optimism falls apart again.

From a narrative point-of-view the article focuses on, how the aspects of travelling and erotic love are interconnected. The obsersations regarding the implications of eroticism in the novel are primarily based on Plato’s discussions of eros (vs. logos), as presented by the Greek philosopher in his Symposion. Furthermore, the significance of the space defined by travel for the experience of eroticism is examined. A number of significant contrasts inherent in the novel (logos and eros, home and abroad, the private and the public space) is also made part of the close-reading-analysis.
”Jeg kunde for Længsel ej sove” Holger Drachmann og den erotiske rejse
Authors: van der Liet Henk
Published: December 2019

Inspired by the spatial turn in literary criticism, this article seeks to combine a traditional biographical approach of the versatile oeuvre of the late 19th Century Danish poet, painter and bon vivant Holger Drachmann (1846–1908), with a space-oriented perspective. One of the key concepts of the Scandinavian literature of the latter half of the 19th Century, the era of the so-called Modern Breakthrough, was to promote a literature that dealt with contemporary social issues; at the same time, many of the artists who adhered to this program turned their backs on everyday routine, by frequently travelling and living abroad for long periods. Especially Southern Europe, and in particular Italy was a favorite destination. In Drachmann’s oeuvre too, the lure of the South is omnipresent, but his initial infatuation with Italy shifts radically between his first (1867) and second (1876) journey to the country, from an Orientalist notion of Italy as an eroticised Nirvana, to a horrendously degenerate country. This case study proposes a spatial reading of one of Drachmann’s still well-known poems, ”Sakuntala” (1879), where the lure of travel, exoticism and erotic enticement are brought together in a poem, in which travel is a mere metaphor for the state of mind in which exotic landscapes morph into erotic spaces, while eroticist desire remains forever unfulfilled.
Power Distribution Systems Using Bit-Shift Operator Based MOSOA
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Ghosh Ayan , Samantaray S.R. , Jha Sumit Kr.
Published: December 2019

This paper presents a new approach based on the application of a bit-shift operator based multi-objective seeker-optimization-algorithm (BS-MOSOA) for designing of combined primary and secondary power distribution system (CPDS) considering both system cost and reliability. In number of researches works the planning of secondary power distribution system (PDS) has not been considered for planning strategy. However, it is observed that the total investment and operational cost components of secondary PDS plays an important role in the overall system cost. Thus, in this proposed research a CPDS has been considered for comprehensive planning of complex PDS. Furthermore, a reliability index called Contingency-load-loss-index is used for the reliability assessment of the network. The algorithm uses a modified version of seeker-optimization-algorithm (SOA), which is based on the status of changing switches and shift operator to generate a group of non-dominated solutions. Also, fuzzy theory approach is used for selection of most suitable solution among the non-dominated solutions from the obtained Pareto-front. The proposed method is illustrated on a real test case consist of a residential primary and secondary network of 75 electrical nodes. Furthermore, a qualitative comparison is made with existing traditional and classical methodologies, to show the efficacy of the proposed planning approach.
Improving solubility and dissolution of meloxicam by solid dispersion using hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 2910 3 cps and nicotinamide
Authors: Fathanah Ana , Setyawan Dwi , Sari Retno
Published: December 2019

Background

Solid dispersion (SD) represents a good method for enhancing the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs. Meloxicam (MLX), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug has poor solubility in water. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) 2910 3 cps, a hydrophilic carrier and nicotinamide (NC), a hydrotropic agent can be used as matrix of SD. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of HPMC 2910 3 cps and NC as SD matrix on the solubility and dissolution rate of MLX.

Methods

The SD of MLX was prepared by solvent evaporation method using methanol as solvent. The SD formulations composed of HPMC and NC in different ratios (1:1:1, 1:1:2, 1:2:1, 1:2:2). The physical state of MLX SD were characterized by Differential Thermal Analyzer (DTA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffractometer (PXRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The solubility and dissolution of the MLX SD were also evaluated.

Results

The results of differential thermal analysis (DTA) showed that the melting point of MLX SD was lower than MLX further the X-ray diffractogram showed a decrease of the crystallinity of MLX in SD. Those indicated that MLX was dispersed molecularly in SD. The SD showed a widening transmission peak at 3000–3500 cm−1 which resembled the peak of pure MLX transmission. It indicated that intermolecular hydrogen bonds were formed between MLX, HPMC, and NC. The solubility and the dissolution efficiency (ED60) of SD with MLX-HPMC 2910 3 cps-NC = 1:2:1 increased 3.59 times and 1.50 times higher then MLX substance.

Conclusions

MLX-HPMC-NC SD system increased the solubility and dissolution of MLX. The SD with MLX-HPMC 2910 3 cps-NC ratio of 1:2:1 had the highest solubility and ED60 compared to the other SD formulas.
The prescription patterns of second-generation antipsychotics in schizophrenia outpatient setting
Authors: Julaeha Julaeha , Athiyah Umi , Hermansyah Andi
Published: December 2019

Background

Schizophrenia is a chronic disorder that requires long-term treatment to achieve symptom remission and quality of life improvement. Antipsychotic medications are primary treatments for schizophrenia patients. Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) have been recognized as first-line drugs in the treatment of schizophrenia. This study aimed at determining the prescription patterns of SGAs in schizophrenia outpatients in the National Mental Hospital in Indonesia.

Methods

A retrospective study with descriptive analysis was conducted between October and December 2018, exclusive to data of the patients with schizophrenia only. Data were collected from the prescription records of schizophrenia outpatients. This study performed a descriptive analysis of patient characteristics, percentage of SGAs prescribed, regimen doses of SGAs, average number of SGAs prescribed per patient, and pattern of antipsychotics prescribed.

Results

The most commonly used SGAs were risperidone 55%, followed by clozapine 38%, aripiprazole 3%, quetiapine 3%, and olanzapine 1%. Antipsychotics were generally prescribed in their recommended doses. Almost all SGAs were prescribed as polypharmacy, and the most common combination of SGAs were risperidone and clozapine.

Conclusions

This study highlighted that risperidone was the major choice for treatment in the outpatient setting. Polypharmacy is the most common pattern prescription of SGAs in the National Mental Hospital in Indonesia. New studies should focus on the analyses of polypharmacy prospectively, and the role of pharmacist in collaboration with other health professionals in the managing of schizophrenia therapy.
Visualising Ostia’s Processional Landscape Through a Multi-Layered Computational Approach: Case Study of the Cult of the Magna Mater
Authors: Crawford Katherine A.
Published: December 2019

Ostia, the ancient port of Rome, had a rich religious landscape. How processional rituals further contributed to this landscape, however, has seen little consideration. This is largely due to a lack of evidence that attests to the routes taken by processional rituals. The present study aims to address existing problems in studying processions by questioning what factors motivated processional movement routes. A novel computational approach that integrates GIS, urban network analysis, and agent-based modelling is introduced. This multi-layered approach is used to question how spectators served as attractors in the creation of a processional landscape using Ostia’s Campo della Magna Mater as a case study. The analysis of these results is subsequently used to gain new insight into how a greater processional landscape was created surrounding the sanctuary of the Magna Mater.
Die Vorlesung
Authors: Wenzl Thomas
Published: December 2019

Als ein sich an viele Studierende gleichzeitig richtendes und damit zu der Idee eines individualisierten akademischen Unterrichts in Spannung stehendes Lehrformat ist die Vorlesung vielfacher Kritik ausgesetzt. Vor diesem Hintergrund arbeitet der Beitrag eine Funktion der Vorlesung für die universitäre Lehre heraus, die diese nicht trotz, sondern gerade wegen ihres kollektiven Charakters erfüllt. Es wird argumentiert, dass die Vorlesung dem allgemeinen Interaktionssituationstypus der „Rede“ entspricht, für den in allen gesellschaftlichen Kontexten, in denen er angetroffen werden kann, kennzeichnend ist, dass er seine Dignität der Anwesenheit möglichst großer öffentlicher Zuhörerschaften verdankt. Vor allem durch eine Analogiebildung zu der Situation der religiösen Rede, also der Predigt, werden einige elementare bildungsbedeutsame Erfahrungen herausgearbeitet, die die Vorlesung als Lehrformat sowohl Studierenden als auch Lehrenden ermöglicht.
A note on the eigenvalue free intervals of some classes of signed threshold graphs
Authors: Anđelić Milica , Koledin Tamara , Stanić Zoran
Published: December 2019

We consider a particular class of signed threshold graphs and their eigenvalues. If Ġ is such a threshold graph and Q(Ġ ) is a quotient matrix that arises from the equitable partition of Ġ , then we use a sequence of elementary matrix operations to prove that the matrix Q(Ġ ) – xI (x ∈ ℝ) is row equivalent to a tridiagonal matrix whose determinant is, under certain conditions, of the constant sign. In this way we determine certain intervals in which Ġ has no eigenvalues.
Protection Against XY Gonadal Sex Reversal by a Variant Region on Mouse Chromosome 13
Authors: Livermore Catherine , Simon Michelle , Reeves Richard , Stévant Isabelle , Nef Serge , Pope Madeleine , Mallon Ann-Marie , Wells Sara , Warr Nick , Greenfield Andy
Published: December 2019

XY C57BL/6J (B6) mice harboring a Mus musculus domesticus-type Y chromosome (YPOS), known as B6.YPOS mice, commonly undergo gonadal sex reversal and develop as phenotypic females. In a minority of cases, B6.YPOS males are identified and a proportion of these are fertile. This phenotypic variability on a congenic B6 background has puzzled geneticists for decades. Recently, a B6.YPOS colony was shown to carry a non-B6-derived region of chromosome 11 that protected against B6.YPOS sex reversal. Here. we show that a B6.YPOS colony bred and archived at the MRC Harwell Institute lacks the chromosome 11 modifier but instead harbors an ∼37 Mb region containing non-B6-derived segments on chromosome 13. This region, which we call Mod13, protects against B6.YPOS sex reversal in a proportion of heterozygous animals through its positive and negative effects on gene expression during primary sex determination. We discuss Mod13’s influence on the testis determination process and its possible origin in light of sequence similarities to that region in other mouse genomes. Our data reveal that the B6.YPOS sex reversal phenomenon is genetically complex and the explanation of observed phenotypic variability is likely dependent on the breeding history of any local colony.
The Effect of Electronic Payment Systems on Financial Performance of Microfinance Banks in Niger State
Authors: Sakanko Musa Abdullahi , David Joseph
Published: December 2019

This study employs the cross sectional survey research design and the descriptive and ordinary least square regressions to examine the impact of Electronic-Payment Systems on the financial performance of Microfinance Banks and Institutions in Niger state, Nigeria. The results of the analysis indicate the presence of e-payment systems  in the bank, which enjoys impressive acceptability, due to its ease of use and convenience. In addition, ATM facility, Internet payment options, e-payment cards, and mobile banking platforms shows a significant positive impact on the financial performance of COE-Minna microfinance bank. In essence, the improvement and review of e-payment platforms’ security, so as to attract more users, coupled with the reduction of charges associated with the use of the platforms as well as sensitization of potential users were recommended.
Full Issue Vol. 9(2), 2019
Authors: Esensi Jurnal
Published: December 2019

Full Issue Vol. 9(2), 2019
Mobile Display Advertising: Perilaku Niat Pembelian Konsumen pada High Involvement vs Low Involvement Product
Authors: Nata Jiwangga Hadi , Kurniawan Aries
Published: December 2019

This study uses the theory of Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) using a quantitative approach. Sampling using non-probability sampling method, using purposive sampling technique. Respondents in this study were 200 respondents in the purchase intention category in the High Involvement product and also 200 in the Low Involvement product category. The analysis technique used in this study is Partial Least Square (PLS). The results showed that browsing activities on Instagram for both the High and Low Involvement categories of the product had a positive influence on flow conditions, online trust, and purchase intentions. Then online trust in an account on Instagram has a positive influence on flow conditions. Likewise, the flow condition variable and online trust also have an influence on the purchase intention of the latest items on Instagram. There is no difference in consumer behavior towards purchase intentions in the online domain between High and Low Involvement products.
Heuristic possibilities of the block approach in the formation of the management structure of public servants
Authors: Шпекторенко І. В.
Published: December 2019

In the article, the author investigated the heuristic possibilities of the block (or block) approachin the formation of the structure of managerial activity of a public servant. To implement this task,the article explores the essence of the block approach, in particular, in the analysis and constructionof various systems (which are based on the structure of something).To date, the only attempt to apply a block approach to the structure of activity is an attempt byV. D. Shadrikov (1994), which expanded the ideas of scientists and practitioners about the contentof the latter. An interesting model of V. D. Shadrikov’s activity in the sense of understanding thestructure of managerial activity (from the perspective of a process approach to management), thatis, taking into account management functions.The author of the article, relying on the scientific potential of V. D. Shadrikov, substantiatedsuch blocks in the structure of managerial activity: personnel management; the meaning andmotives of the activity for the individual; reflection of objective and subjective conditions ofactivity; informational basis of activity; definition of a problem; statement of the goal of theactivity (goal of the activity) presentation of the results and program (process) of the activity;organization (management) concepts, methods, means (means), tools, mechanisms of activity;regulatory environment; making decisions; individual qualities of the subject (subsystem ofactively important qualities); the control; orientation and correlation of activities; action mapping;display of results parameters; display of the results of actions (result) reflection.
Influence of row spacing and seeding rate on crop yields cultivated by “No-Till” technology in Kulunda steppe (Altai Region)
Authors: Belyaev V. I. , Meinel T. , Rudev N. V. , Grunwald L.-Ch. , Sokolova L. V. , Kuznetsov V. N. , Matsyura A. V.
Published: December 2019

The long-term field experience has been carried out in the LLC Farm Enterprise “Partner”, Mikhailovsky District of the Altai Region, one of the basic sites of the “Kulunda” project. The field experience was founded in 2013, implemented over the next four years in a similar way; the alternation of crops was carried out in accordance to the crop rotation. In total, there were four sets of experiments in eight variants in triple number of replications. There were four variants of row spacing implemented: 25.0 cm, 33.3 cm, 37.5 cm, and 50.0 cm. We also used two seeding rates for every crop: spring wheat - 75 and 120 kg/ha; rapeseed – 2 and 4 kg/ha; peas – 140 and 180 kg/ha. The sowing was made with an expimental grain seeder “Cornor-DMC” with chisel-shaped copying coulters, the “Amazone” company production. Combine harvesters “Lexion” (peas and rapeseed) and “Sampo” (wheat) carried out harvesting in August-September. As an object of research, the technological process of cultivation of agricultural crops in the crop rotation of spring wheat–pea–spring wheat–rape was considered. The influence of the row spacing and the seeding rate on the yield was evaluated. An increase in row spacing from 25 cm to 50 cm leads to an almost linear decrease in the yield of crops. The increasing of the seeding rate in the studied limits leads to the yield enhancement. The obtained data will allow substantiating the rational row spacing, design of the sowing complex and seeding rate. This is extremely important for introducing the “No-Till” technology in the arid steppe of the Altai Region.
Оptimization of blackberry clonal micropropagation
Authors: Borodulina I. D. , Plaksina T. V. , Panasenko V. N. , Sokolova G. G.
Published: December 2019

One of the modern methods widely used in the propagation of various garden crops is clonal micropropagation. Research in this direction is ongoing to optimize each stage of reproduction. The paper presents the results of a study of the clonal micropropagation of blackberry varieties Brzezina of Polish selection. For clonal micropropagation, sterile BlackBerry microshoots were used. In order to induce adventitious and axillary shoot formation, we tested various variants of culture medium: hormone-free medium, mediumsa with growth regulators (6-benzylaminopurine, β-indolyl-3-butyric acid, gibberellic acid). It was revealed that blackberry microshoots can take root on medium without growth regulators, but the resulting roots are thin, do not have root hairs. Such microshoots does not adapt to ex vitro conditions. A high reproduction rate (96%) was observed when rooting blackberry microshoots in a culture medium ½ MS + 2.0 μM IBA. Adaptation of regenerated plants to ex vitro conditions is more effective (97% survival rate) on a sand + vermiculite substrate (3: 1).
Short-term isolation of the bunchgrass steppes of the Southern Kulunda
Authors: Elesova N. V.
Published: December 2019

The article considers the results of the experiment to improve the condition of the degraded bunchgrass steppes of the Southern Kulunda at different stages of pasture degradation by the conservation method (2013-2018). The change in the species composition, structure of the grass stand, supply of aboveground phytomass and its components as a result of decreasing pasture load is presented.
Environmental and landscape significance of steppe mega-projects
Authors: Levykin S. V. , Chibilev A. A. , Gulyanov Yu. A. , Silantieva M. M. , Kazachkov G. V. , Yakovlev I. G.
Published: December 2019

For the development of fundamental bases of strategy of rational steppe land use and its realization we analyzed the most significant steppe megaprojects - "Stalin's plan to transform the nature of forest steppe and steppe", the Virgin Lands Campaign of 1954-1963, Agrarian Reform of the 1990s. Both specific consequences of each project and their cumulative impact determining the modern appearance of steppe landscapes and their agro-ecological problems are established. The Altai Territory, primarily the Kulunda steppe, is considered a special arena of megaprojects in the steppes of Siberia, bearing all the features of the old-developed region, where the most positive effect of these projects was achieved. The interrelation between the main problems of modern steppe land use and the results of the considered megaprojects has been presented. The main problems of agrarian steppe land use have been revealed. Taking into account modern tendencies of development of agrarian and industrial complex three most probable scenarios of development of steppe agriculture landscapes are considered. They are neo-wildland, stagnation, and optimization scenario with adaptation of agricultural lands structure to natural-climatic conditions and requirements of market conditions, with concentration of intensive agriculture on the best lands and transformation of low-productive lands into long-term managed steppe fodder lands of adaptive animal husbandry.
Adaptation to ex vitro conditions of Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Hemsl. regenerants
Authors: Khlebova L. P. , Orazov A. , Titova A. M. , Pirogova A. V.
Published: December 2019

Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Hemsl. belongs to Asteraceae family and is of great importance for pharmaceutical and food industries. Stevioside obtained from the leaves of this plant is regarded as a valuable natural sweetener. Low seed fertility is one of the most important problems in stevia production. It multiplies almost exclusively in a vegetative way. Plant tissue culture is an efficient method for mass propagation of S. rebaudiana. We studied the effect of various concentrations of auxins on rooting stevia shoot cuttings under in vitro conditions. We found that adding 0.6-1.0 mg l-1 IBA or 0.2 mg l-1 IAA to the В5 medium is effective forrooting the shoot fragments of this species. The regenerants were adapted to ex vitro conditions for 3 weeks on a hydroponic setup filled with a solution of mineral salts according to the quarter-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium modified by the content of KH2PO4 and NH4NO3. Using a triple concentration of KH2PO4 (510 mg l-1) during the first week of adaptation and a fullconcentration of NH4NO3 (1650 mg l-1) over the next 2 weeks ensures 100% acclimatization of stevia regenerants to ex vitro conditions. The replacement of agar in the nutrient medium with a perlite-vermiculite mixture in the ratio of 1 : 3 stimulated the transition of regenerants to the photomyxotrophic type of nutrition. The use of a porous substrate provided a decrease in humidity inside the culture vessels, which led to forming both leaves with well-functioning stomata and a branched root system with root hairs. The stevia regenerants propagated in vitro on a porous substrate did not require special conditions for the ex vitro acclimatization. The yield of surviving plants in the greenhouse was 100%.
Biological features of lactic acid bacteria in distinct ecological niches
Authors: Orlova T. N. , Dorofeev R. V. , Irkitova A. N. , Funk I. A. , Grebenshchikova A. V.
Published: December 2019

Lactic acid bacteria are ubiquitous and occupy various ecological niches. These microorganisms are widely used in various industries due to their high and diverse enzymatic activity. Industry collections of microorganisms with technological valuable properties are created for the construction of bacterial sourdough compositions. The aim of our study was to study mesophilic Lactococci isolated from various ecological niches. Only 9 cultures (out of 100 strains of mesophilic Lactococci isolated from plants) can be attributed to promising for further use in industry. The proportion of strains with industrially valuable properties among animal lactobacilli was 19% higher. Therefore, objects of animal origin are the most appropriate source for isolation of mesophilic Lactococci strains, promising for use in the dairy industry.
Influence of recreation on the forest ecosystems of Altai Region low lands
Authors: Sokolova G. G.
Published: December 2019

The paper describes the results of studying the dynamics of the species composition and changes in the structure of forest ecosystems in the lowlands of the Altai Territory under the influence of recreation. The study revealed five types of forest disturbance. Three groups of herbaceous plants were distinguished depending on the response to trampling. Recommendations on permissible loads in recreational forests are given.
The natural transformations of the Northern Kulunda in the second half of the Holocene based on studying the microbiomorphic profile of swampy phytocenosis
Authors: Paradossky V. L. , Pechatnova Yu. V. , Solomonova M. Yu.
Published: December 2019

The article presents the analysis of the microbiomorphic soil profile of the swampy meadow. Phytoliths, spicules of sponges and Rhizopoda shells are abundant in the soil. There are spores of fungus and mosses, as well as zoogenic material. The change in the natural conditions of the object during the second half of the holocene was reconstructed based on the obtained data. Differences in the content of microbiomorphs in different horizons of the soil profile of the swampy meadow correspond to the general regional and local processes of climate and vegetation dynamics in Northern Kulunda and adjacent territories.
Age and size characteristics of alien mollusks Viviparus viviparus L. in the coastal thanatocoenosis of Novosibirsk reservoir
Authors: Yanygina L. V. , Volgina D. D.
Published: December 2019

Viviparus viviparus L. is the most numerous alien species of the Novosibirsk reservoir. In some parts of the reservoir V. viviparus creates settlements with a very high density. After the death of mollusks in the bottom sediments and on the banks of the reservoir, large areas of accumulation of empty shells are formed. Due to their strong structure, the shells are poorly decomposed and can serve as a generalized indicator of the state of the mollusk population over a long time. We analyzed the size and age characteristics of the V. viviparus shells in thanatocenoses of the Novosibirsk reservoir coast. Empty shells of river snails were collected on the shores of the middle (near the village of Chingis, Ordynskoye and in the Karakansky Bay) and the lower (near the village of Borovoye, Bystrovka, Leninsky and in the Berdsky Bay) parts of the Novosibirsk Reservoir in May, 24–26, 2018. Shells height and width were measured with an electronic caliper with an accuracy of 0.1 mm. Age of mollusks was determined by the marks of a winter growth stop on the shell. It is shown that in the thanatocenoses of the middle part and in the bays of the reservoir, shells of young mollusks (the second and third years of life) prevailed. In the lower part of the reservoir, the coastal thanatocoenosis contained larger shells of adult mollusks (fourth and fifth years of life). In general, the most of V. viviparus individuals in the Novosibirsk reservoir die before they reach the age limit. It is suggested that the premature death of most river snails can be caused by significant seasonal fluctuations in the water level of the reservoir, during which the littoral is drained.
Implementing the organic farming concept in strategies of sustainable development: European and Russian perspectives
Authors: Voronkova O. , Vysotskaya O.
Published: December 2019

The tradition of organic agriculture is at present increasingly strengthening its position in European countries and becoming a paradigm for building up sustainable development strategies, ecological and economic security of regions. A more ecological model becomes a necessity today. It offers a great opportunity for European producers of organic products to get a long-term sustainability and competitive advantages. The world economic crisis has further influenced and forced the interest of producers and consumers in high-quality and safe products. The article considers approaches to implementing the organic farming concept as part of building up strategies of sustainable development of EU regions in comparison with the Russian Federation, analyzes the main state mechanisms of this process.
Ways to reduce adverse effects of stress in pigs using nutritional factors
Authors: Bogolyubov N. V. , Chabaev M. G. , Fomichev Yu. P , Tsis E. Yu. , Semenova A. A. , Nekrasov R. V.
Published: December 2019

Modern intensive technologies for handling and growing highly productive animals are accompanied by significant changes in their homeostasis causing stress and adversely affecting their health and the quality of the products obtained from them. Depending on the cause, stress is classified as social (technological), environmental, dietary, and immunological. Various types of stress adversely affect the body and contribute to endocrine, energy balance, and carbohydrate-lipid metabolism disturbances, which adversely affects the animal resistance to diseases, productivity and reproductive characteristics. Stress leads to metabolic disorders and changes in the ratio of muscle and fatty tissues. Every year, the manifestations of antemortem and postmortem pathological changes in the microstructure of animal muscle tissue are increasingly noted. Moreover, the affected structures of muscle fibers are characterized by hyper contraction, disruption of cell membranes, and formation of extracellular protein substance represented by denatured forms of proteins reducing the nutritional value and consumer characteristics of the final product. The use of antioxidants in pig diets, including natural ones, helps to reduce the impact of environmental stress factors on animals and increase their adaptive capacity. This review focuses on the ways to reduce stress and the effect of flavonoids, including quercetin, whose properties have been extensively studied in recent years, in order to increase the resistance of highly productive animals to various stress factors.