bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of Using a MEMS Microphone Array for Pedestrian Detection in an Autonomous Emergency Braking System
Authors: Izquierdo Alberto , Val Lara del , Villacorta Juan J.
Published: June 2021

Pedestrian detection by a car is typically performed using camera, LIDAR, or RADAR-based systems. The first two systems, based on the propagation of light, do not work in foggy or poor visibility environments, and the latter are expensive and the probability associated with their ability to detect people is low. It is necessary to develop systems that are not based on light propagation, with reduced cost and with a high detection probability for pedestrians. This work presents a new sensor that satisfies these three requirements. An active sound system, with a sensor based on a 2D array of MEMS microphones, working in the 14 kHz to 21 kHz band, has been developed. The architecture of the system is based on an FPGA and a multicore processor that allow the system to operate in real time. The algorithms developed are based on a beamformer, range and lane filters, and a CFAR (Constant False Alarm Rate) detector. In this work, tests have been carried out with different people and in different ranges, calculating, in each case and globally, the Detection Probability and the False Alarm Probability of the system. The results obtained verify that the developed system allows the detection and estimation of the position of pedestrians, ensuring that a vehicle travelling at up to 50 km/h can stop and avoid a collision.
Spatially Ordered Matrix of Nanostructured Tin–Tungsten Oxides Nanocomposites Formed by Ionic Layer Deposition for Gas Sensing
Authors: Gorokh Gennady , Bogomazova Natalia , Taleb Abdelhafed , Zhylinski Valery , Galkovsky Timur , Zakhlebayeva Anna , Lozovenko Andrei , Iji Michael , Fedosenko Vladimir , Tolstoy Valeri
Published: June 2021

The process of layer-by-layer ionic deposition of tin-tungsten oxide films on smooth silicon substrates and nanoporous anodic alumina matrices has been studied. To achieve the film deposition, solutions containing cationic SnF2 or SnCl2 and anionic Na2WO4 or (NH4)2O·WO3 precursors have been used. The effect of the solution compositions on the films deposition rates, morphology, composition, and properties was investigated. Possible mechanisms of tin-tungsten oxide films deposition into the pores and on the surface of anodic alumina are discussed. The electro-physical and gas-sensitive properties of nanostructured SnxWyOz films have been investigated. The prepared nanocomposites exhibit stable semiconductor properties characterized by high resistance and low temperature coefficient of electrical resistance of about 1.6 × 10−3 K−1. The sensitivity of the SnxWyOz films to 2 and 10 ppm concentrations of ammonia at 523 K was 0.35 and 1.17, respectively. At concentrations of 1 and 2 ppm of nitrogen dioxide, the sensitivity was 0.48 and 1.4, respectively, at a temperature of 473 K. At the temperature of 573 K, the sensitivity of 1.3 was obtained for 100 ppm of ethanol. The prepared nanostructured tin-tungsten oxide films showed promising gas-sensitivity, which makes them a good candidate for the manufacturing of gas sensors with high sensitivity and low power consumption.
Challenging the Fundamental Premise of White Supremacy: DNA Documents the Jewish Origins of the New England Colony
Authors: Hirschman Elizabeth C.
Published: June 2021

The English Puritans of New England are a foundational element in the current racist ideology of White Supremacy. Depicted in history books as stalwart British Protestants who braved bitter winters and Native predations to establish a “City on the Hill”—a beacon to the world of freedom and liberty—the Puritans became ideals in the American consciousness. But what if this is a misrepresentation, created largely in the mid and late 1800s to serve as a political barrier against Catholic, East European, Jewish, and Asian immigrants who threatened the “American way of life”? The present research uses genealogical DNA data collected from descendants of the New England settlers to demonstrate that these original “Yankees” were of Jewish ancestry. The WASP origination of New England is shown to be a false narrative.
Online Education in the Russian Arctic: Employers’ Confidence and Educational Institutions’ Readiness
Authors: Zaikov Konstantin S. , Saburov Aleksandr A. , Tamitskiy Aleksandr M. , Nikiforov Aleksey S.
Published: June 2021

The rapid spread of online learning demonstrates that it is becoming one of the trends in the development of vocational education in the modern world. Along with the obvious advantages of online learning such as cost reduction, cross-border opportunities for receiving it, and adaptability for students, educational institutions encounter specific difficulties: a lack of optimal teaching methods, inflexibility of the institutional environment to the use of new teaching technologies, the transformation of communication between teachers and students, and technological unpreparedness for the development of online learning. At the same time, the need to solve the problem of accessibility of education and fill the shortage of labor resources in Russia, in particular its Arctic zone (AZRF), will contribute to the spread of online learning practices. To consider developing online education, this article, on the one hand, presents the results of a study of the regional employers’ confidence in education in a non-traditional format and, on the other hand, shows the readiness of vocational educational institutions to implement training programs in a distance format. The main research method was a questionnaire survey, in which 2240 organizations and 344 professional educational institutions located in the Russian Arctic took part. The survey results indicate that more than half of employers (58%) declared the applicability of online learning in the Russian Arctic, but about 40.6% of companies do not consider applicants with a diploma from online education. At the same time, employers’ confidence in distance learning in higher education is lower than in vocational secondary education. Additionally, the majority of institutions of higher education (62.5%) believe in the possibility of using distance education in the Russian Arctic, while organizations of vocational secondary education (64.98%) have the opposite opinion. Based on the results of the study, recommendations for federal and regional authorities were prepared.
CFD Investigation of Vehicle’s Ventilation Systems and Analysis of ACH in Typical Airplanes, Cars, and Buses
Authors: Pirouz Behrouz , Mazzeo Domenico , Palermo Stefania Anna , Naghib Seyed Navid , Turco Michele , Piro Patrizia
Published: June 2021

The simulation of the ventilation and the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems of vehicles could be used in the energy demand management of vehicles besides improving the air quality inside their cabins. Moreover, traveling by public transport during a pandemic is a concerning factor, and analysis of the vehicle’s cabin environments could demonstrate how to decrease the risk and create a safer journey for passengers. Therefore, this article presents airflow analysis, air changes per hour (ACH), and respiration aerosols’ trajectory inside three vehicles, including a typical car, bus, and airplane. In this regard, three vehicles’ cabin environment boundary conditions and the HVAC systems of the selected vehicles were determined, and three-dimensional numerical simulations were performed using computational fluid dynamic (CFD) modeling. The analysis of the airflow patterns and aerosol trajectories in the selected vehicles demonstrate the critical impact of inflow, outflow, and passenger’s locations in the cabins. The CFD model results exhibited that the lowest risk could be in the airplane and the highest in the bus because of the location of airflows and outflows. The discrete CFD model analysis determined the ACH for a typical car of about 4.3, a typical bus of about 7.5, and in a typical airplane of about 8.5, which were all less than the standard protocol of infection prevention, 12 ACH. According to the results, opening windows in the cars could decrease the aerosol loads and improve the low ACH by the HVAC systems. However, for the buses, a new design for the outflow location or an increase in the number of outflows appeared necessary. In the case of airplanes, the airflow paths were suitable, and by increasing the airflow speed, the required ACH might be achieved. Finally, in the closed (recirculating) systems, the role of filters in decreasing the risk appeared critical.
Cardiac Effects of a Rowing Training Program in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Gavala-González Juan , Gálvez-Fernández Ismael , Mercadé-Melé Pere , Fernández-García José Carlos
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to determine whether a rowing training program could improve cardiac function in women (n = 28) with the mean age of 52.30 ± 3.78 years who survived breast cancer (stage 1: 4.55%; 2: 36.36%; 3: 54.54%; and 4: 4.55%) diagnosed 4.68 ± 3.00 years previously and underwent subsequent surgery (preservation: 56.52%; total mastectomy: 39.13%; and double mastectomy: 4.35%). Participants completed a 12-week training program consisting of three weekly sessions lasting 60–90 min with a progressive intensity increase according to the Börg scale. The assessments performed were blood pressure and pulse measurements both at rest and after performing the six-minute walk test to collect data on cardiac behavior and aerobic performance. The results showed statistically significant differences in cardiovascular system efficiency measured on the basis of heart rate both before (−12.63 ± 14.68 bpm) and after the six-minute walk test (−11.46 ± 28.39 bpm), increase in the distance achieved in the aerobic endurance test (51.56 ± 48.26 m) as well as decrease in diastolic (−13.6 ± 7.85 mm Hg) and systolic (−6.60 ± 9.10 mm Hg) blood pressure. These results suggest that rowing training programs could be a strategy to consider in this population for the benefits observed in heart rate, blood pressure and aerobic performance, which would lead to improved general health and quality of life.
“We Need such a Space”: Residents’ Motives for Visiting Urban Green Spaces during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Luo Shixian , Xie Jing , Furuya Katsunori
Published: June 2021

Since the outbreak of the Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia in 2019, several cities have been blocked to prevent the expansion of the infection. This qualitative study aimed to determine the motives of urban residents for visiting urban green spaces during the epidemic (especially within the context of the city blockade), and what might weaken these motives. In total, 47 residents (17 men and 30 women) were recruited from Chengdu, in China, to participate in interviews. A thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data. According to the results, the motives of the respondents were divided into strong motives and weak motives. These strong motives for visiting UGS can be divided into four themes: “A place for health”, “Escape”, “Social support”, and “A safe and important place for outdoor activities”. Residents classified as the weak motive primarily considered the reasons of “Keep distance with others”, “Potential infection risk” and “Seek compensation”. The results of this study are significant for current and future urban management, green space planning, and social well-being.
Managerial Risk Perceptions of Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure: Evidence from the Forestry Sector in China
Authors: Lu Feifei , Wang Zhaohua , Toppinen Anne , D’Amato Dalia , Wen Zuomin
Published: June 2021

Understanding how managers perceive risks in the decision-making process of corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure is vital, especially in sectors with high social and environmental demands on sustainability. The main aim of this study was to explore the impact of managerial risk perceptions and influencing factors on CSR disclosure in the forestry sector of China and to improve the sustainable development of forestry. Utilizing survey data of 214 managers from Chinese forestry enterprises, we analyzed how manager backgrounds, including six variables (gender, age, education level, degree major, number of years working as a manager, and work experience) related to the managers’ risk perceptions of CSR disclosure via a two-stage model. The analyses of the two-stage model revealed that the influence factors differ in the two stages of risk perception. According to our results, influencing factors were not the same at various stages of the CSR reporting process. This requires decision makers to take practical driving factors into account and select managers with different characteristics to carry out the CSR disclosure of forestry enterprises.
For the Future Sustainable Career Development of College Students: Exploring the Impact of Core Self-Evaluation and Career Calling on Career Decision-Making Difficulty
Authors: Shen Xueping , Gu Xueying , Chen Huaruo , Wen Ya
Published: June 2021

As one of the important factors to predict future sustainable development, the difficulty of career decision-making has aroused widespread concern in psychological research. Core self-evaluation and career calling have a positive impact on college students’ career development, employees’ organizational behavior, life satisfaction, and life meaning, thus promoting individual sustainable development. Based on the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), this study mainly discusses the positive role of core self-evaluation and career calling in overcoming college students’ career decision-making difficulties, which provides support for strengthening theory and proposing educational countermeasures. This study investigates the relationship among core self-evaluation, career calling, and career decision-making difficulties for 483 Chinese college students. The results show that core self-evaluation positively predicts career calling, while core self-evaluation and career calling negatively predict career decision-making difficulties. Accordingly, career calling plays a partial mediating role between core self-evaluation and career decision-making difficulties. Therefore, college students’ career calling can be enhanced by improving their core self-evaluation, so as to further solve the difficulties in career decision-making. In the future, effective strategies should be taken to reduce the career decision-making difficulty for students’ sustainable development.
Energy Cost Performance of Thermal Power Industry in China Considering Regional Heterogeneity: A Meta-Frontier Cost Malmquist Productivity Decomposition Approach
Authors: Zhu Zhigang , Zhang Xuping , Wang Yujia , Chen Xiang
Published: June 2021

Since thermal power generation is still one of the main sources of carbon emissions in China, the economic benefits and productivity of the thermal power generation industry have been seriously affected in recent years with the increasingly strict environmental regulations and restrictions on carbon emissions, as well as by the sharp fluctuations of coal prices. Therefore, it has been an important issue to improve the productivity performance of the thermal power industry. Due to the regional heterogeneity among different regions of China, we introduced a meta-frontier framework into the energy cost productivity model to develop a meta-energy cost productivity model. The energy cost gap between the group-specific and meta-frontiers was also utilized to assess the convergence rate of the group-specific frontier to the meta-frontier. The estimated results present that the energy cost efficiency of the eastern region outperformed that of the other two regions, and the cost Malmquist (CM) productivity of these three regions all showed positive growth, in which the progress of allocative efficiency and price effect were the main driving factors. Additionally, the central and western regions displayed the convergence of group-specific CM productivity towards the meta-frontier.
Drivers of Residents’ Home Composting Intention: Integrating the Theory of Planned Behavior, the Norm Activation Model, and the Moderating Role of Composting Knowledge
Authors: Rastegari Kopaei Hamid , Nooripoor Mehdi , Karami Ayatollah , Petrescu-Mag Ruxandra Malina , Petrescu Dacinia Crina
Published: June 2021

Home composting is judged as an effective municipal waste management option in which household contribution is essential, but it has a low adoption. The objectives of the study were to determine the factors that influence home composting intention and identify the moderating role of composting knowledge in the model, using the combined model of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and norm activation model (NAM). A structured questionnaire was applied to a sample of 367 residents of Isfahan city, Iran, randomly selected. Data were analyzed using cluster analysis, discriminant analysis, PLS-SEM, and PLS-MGA. Cluster analysis grouped the three clusters based on the constructs of the integrated model, and this result was confirmed by discriminant analysis. Findings show that attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavior control can predict the intention to compost. Study results confirmed the positive effect of awareness of the consequences of composting on ascribed responsibility to compost at home, of responsibility to the personal norm, and of the personal norm on intention to compost at home. Furthermore, it was observed that composting knowledge moderates the relationship between subjective norm and behavioral intention, and the one between perceived behavioral control and behavioral intention. The integrated model had more predictive power than the TPB model. The fit statistic of the integrated model was good and 71% of the variance for intention behavior toward home composting. The insights on factors affecting residents’ intention to compost obtained from this study can be used in measures and programs that reinforce and stimulate home composting.
An Experimental Study on Mechanical Behaviors of Carbon Fiber and Microwave-Assisted Pyrolysis Recycled Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Li Yeou-Fong , Li Jie-You , Ramanathan Gobinathan Kadagathur , Chang Shu-Mei , Shen Ming-Yuan , Tsai Ying-Kuan , Huang Chih-Hong
Published: June 2021

In the last decade, waste carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) products have not been properly recycled and reused, and they sometimes cause environmental problems. In this paper, the microwave-assisted pyrolysis (MAP) technology was utilized to remove the resin from the CFRP bicycle frame, which was recycled into carbon fiber. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) and single filament tensile test were used to observe and compare the difference between recycled carbon fiber and normal carbon fiber. The mechanical performances of carbon fiber-reinforced concrete (CFRC) were investigated with static and dynamic tests under three different fiber/cement weight proportions (5‰, 10‰, and 15‰). Three different kinds of carbon fiber were used in this study, normal carbon fiber, carbon fiber without coupling agent, and recycled carbon fiber. The experimental program was tested according to ASTM C39-01, ASTM C293, and ACI 544.2R standards for compression, flexural, and impact test, respectively. From the experimental results, addition of 10‰ of carbon fiber into the concrete exhibited maximum compressive and flexural strength. The impact performance of recycled carbon fiber improved the highest impact number compared with normal carbon fiber under different impact energy.
Health Risk and Water Quality Assessment of Surface Water in an Urban River of Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan Md. Foysal , Nur-E-Alam Md. , Salam Mohammed Abdus , Rahman Hafizur , Paul Shujit Chandra , Rak Aweng Eh , Ambade Balram , Towfiqul Islam Abu Reza Md.
Published: June 2021

Despite significant contributions to the national economy of Bangladesh, various urban developments, massive industrial and growing shipping activities are making the water of many urban rivers, including Karnaphuli River, extremely polluted. To find out the pollution sources and their possible health effects, 45 water samples were collected from 15 sampling stations. Investigation of six physicochemical parameters (pH, temperature, total dissolved solids, conductivity, salinity, and turbidity) through in-situ measurements and eight heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) status using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) was carried out in this research. Both the physicochemical parameters and heavy metals exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO)’s permeable threshold limit. The calculated hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) ingestion values indicate non-carcinogenic risk both for adults and children, but dermal exposure was within the safety limit. Carcinogenic risk analysis revealed that Cd could cause a risk of cancer in those using the river water for a long period. Spatial analysis and metal pollution index (MPI) results exhibit that downstream of the river water is more polluted than upstream of the river. Overall, the findings of this study imply that polluted water is a threat to human health and the results will also help to undertake proper management strategies and incorporate monitoring programs that study river water for the implementation of safety measures to protect human health.
How Can SMEs Become More Sustainable? Modelling the M-Commerce Consumer Behaviour with Contingent Free Shipping and Customer Journey’s Touchpoints Optimisation
Authors: Nichifor Eliza , Lixăndroiu Radu Constantin , Sumedrea Silvia , Chițu Ioana Bianca , Brătucu Gabriel
Published: June 2021

Digital technology is leading the transformation of business models into sustainable ones, expanding and changing the competitiveness scenario. This paper aims to promote a new sustainable retailer model shaped by contingent free shipping theory and the optimisation of the customer’s journey, enriching the scientific literature by proposing a consumer behavioural model that highlights the contribution of four selected touchpoints to the sustainable transformation of SMEs. The research was elaborated by deploying a framework that presents five analysis methods, namely, an additive function construction, a TOPSIS method, a Spearman rank correlation coefficient calculation, a content analysis and an analytic hierarchy process, which engender the new model. Discovering nine distinguished categories of e-tailers, the sustainable retailer profile was developed and the touchpoint with the greatest contribution to the transformation process was identified. The results of the study allowed the authors to propose the model as a solution to withstand the preponderant negative experience provided by analysed e-tailers to digital buyers, representing the opportunity for SMEs’ sustainable transformation and long-term growth in a competitive, ever-growing market.
Eco-Efficiency and Human Capital Efficiency: Example of Small- and Medium-Sized Family Farms in Selected European Countries
Authors: Polcyn Jan
Published: June 2021

Small- and medium-sized family farms are places to live and sources of income for about half of the population. The aim of this analysis was to determine the relationship between eco-efficiency and human capital efficiency on small- and medium-sized family farms. The analysis was carried out using an economic measure (value of agricultural production per work hour calculated per hectare) and two synthetic measures (human capital and environmental measures). The synthetic measures were determined using the TOPSIS-CRITIC method by defining weights for variables used in the measures. The analysis covered five countries: Lithuania (960 farms), Moldavia (532 farms), Poland (696 farms), Romania (872 farms) and Serbia (524 farms). All of these countries are characterised by a high fragmentation of agricultural holdings. The analysis allowed us to formulate the following conclusions: eco-efficiency and human capital efficiency indices increased with area for small- and medium-sized family farms. An increase in the eco-efficiency index with an increase in farm area suggests that the smaller the farm area, the more extensive the agricultural production that was carried out. In addition, an increase in human capital efficiency with an increase in farm area indicates that there was inefficiency in the utilisation of human capital resources on the agricultural farms studied.
Effect of Commercialization on Tourists’ Perceived Authenticity and Satisfaction in the Cultural Heritage Tourism Context: Case Study of Langzhong Ancient City
Authors: Zhang Tonghao , Yin Ping , Peng Yuanxiang
Published: June 2021

Although some studies claim that tourism commercialization can promote the authentic experience and behaviour of tourists, there is a lack of empirical support. The main purpose of this study is to identify whether tourism commercialization can positively impact tourists’ perceived authenticity and tourist satisfaction in the context of cultural heritage tourism. We divide tourism authenticity into objective authenticity, constructive authenticity, existential authenticity and postmodern authenticity and propose a relationship model of tourism commercialization, the four authenticities, tourist satisfaction and loyalty. A survey was conducted in Langzhong Ancient City, a representative millennium-old county in China. A total of 618 valid domestic tourist questionnaires were collected. The partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) suitable for theory development was used for the conceptual model validation. The results indicate that tourism commercialization positively affects objective, constructive, existential and postmodern authenticity and tourist satisfaction; the four authenticities positively affect tourist satisfaction, while only objective and existential authenticity and tourist satisfaction positively affect tourist loyalty. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Effects of a Targeted Exercise Program on Inter-Leg Asymmetries in Patients with Patellofemoral Pain
Authors: Manojlović Denisa , Zorko Martin , Spudić Darjan , Šarabon Nejc
Published: June 2021

Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is often associated with impaired muscle strength, flexibility, and stability. It has been suggested that inter-leg asymmetries have an important role in increasing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries, including PFP. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify significant asymmetries and determine the effects of a symmetry targeted exercise program in patients with PFP. Eighteen patients aged 13 to 54 years (24.17 ± 12.52 years) with PFP participated in this study. Strength, flexibility and stability outcomes of the trunk, hip, knee and ankle muscles were assessed. A single-group pretest–posttest design was used to assess changes in inter-leg and agonist–antagonist asymmetries resulting from the 8-week period of the supervised exercise program. Results indicated a significant improvement in inter-leg symmetry regarding bilateral stance in a semi-squat position (p = 0.020, d = 0.61, df = 17) and ankle plantarflexion (p = 0.003, d = 0.32, df = 17) and ankle dorsiflexion strength (p < 0.001, d = 0.46, df = 17). In addition, the ratio of ankle dorsiflexion/plantarflexion (p = 0.036, d = 1.14, df = 17) and hip extension/flexion (p = 0.031, d = 0.94, df = 16) changed significantly during the intervention period. To our knowledge, this was the first study to evaluate inter-leg asymmetries resulting from a period of a supervised exercise program. The results indicate that an exercise program focusing on individual asymmetries may influence specific deficits and contribute to better rehabilitation outcomes.
Hamiltonicity of Token Graphs of Some Join Graphs
Authors: Adame Luis Enrique , Rivera Luis Manuel , Trujillo-Negrete Ana Laura
Published: June 2021

Let G be a simple graph of order n with vertex set V(G) and edge set E(G), and let k be an integer such that 1≤k≤n−1. The k-token graph G{k} of G is the graph whose vertices are the k-subsets of V(G), where two vertices A and B are adjacent in G{k} whenever their symmetric difference A▵B, defined as (A∖B)∪(B∖A), is a pair {a,b} of adjacent vertices in G. In this paper we study the Hamiltonicity of the k-token graphs of some join graphs. We provide an infinite family of graphs, containing Hamiltonian and non-Hamiltonian graphs, for which their k-token graphs are Hamiltonian. Our result provides, to our knowledge, the first family of non-Hamiltonian graphs for which it is proven the Hamiltonicity of their k-token graphs, for any 2<k<n−2.
Integrability of Riemann-Type Hydrodynamical Systems and Dubrovin’s Integrability Classification of Perturbed KdV-Type Equations
Authors: Prykarpatskyy Yarema A.
Published: June 2021

Dubrovin’s work on the classification of perturbed KdV-type equations is reanalyzed in detail via the gradient-holonomic integrability scheme, which was devised and developed jointly with Maxim Pavlov and collaborators some time ago. As a consequence of the reanalysis, one can show that Dubrovin’s criterion inherits important parts of the gradient-holonomic scheme properties, especially the necessary condition of suitably ordered reduction expansions with certain types of polynomial coefficients. In addition, we also analyze a special case of a new infinite hierarchy of Riemann-type hydrodynamical systems using a gradient-holonomic approach that was suggested jointly with M. Pavlov and collaborators. An infinite hierarchy of conservation laws, bi-Hamiltonian structure and the corresponding Lax-type representation are constructed for these systems.
An Inventory Ordering Model for Deteriorating Items with Compounding and Backordering
Authors: Çalışkan Cenk
Published: June 2021

We consider the optimal order quantity problem for exponentially deteriorating items where the opportunity cost is based on compound interest and backorders are allowed. Our objectives in this research are to develop a model that accurately models deterioration, compound interest and backordering, and determine a near-optimal and intuitive closed-form solution for the proposed model. Deteriorating items include various chemicals, gasoline and petroleum products, fresh produce, bulk and liquid food products, batteries, and some electronic components. These items incur losses over time due to spoilage, evaporation, chemical decomposition, breakdown, or deterioration in general. Exponential deterioration is commonly used to model this phenomenon, which results in a negative exponential inventory level function, which is asymmetric in the sense that the rate of depletion is highest at the beginning of an ordering cycle, and lowest at the end. On the other hand, the rate of deterioration for individual items is the same at both ends of the cycle, which means it is symmetric. Compounding also leads to exponential terms in the opportunity cost function. Both of these factors result in a total cost function that does not have a closed-form optimal solution. We therefore approximate the total cost function using a Taylor series expansion approximation of the exponential function and derive a closed-form solution that is simple and logical, and very close to the exact optimum, which makes it attractive to the practitioners as a quick and accurate calculation. Our closed form solutions for both the basic and the planned backorders models are very close to the exact optimum, as shown by extensive numerical experiments.
High Levels of Antibiotic Resistance Patterns in Two Referral Hospitals during the Post-Ebola Era in Free-Town, Sierra Leone: 2017–2019
Authors: Koroma Zikan , Moses Francis , Delamou Alexandre , Hann Katrina , Ali Engy , Kitutu Freddy Eric , Namugambe Juliet Sanyu , Harding Doris , Hermans Veerle , Takarinda Kudakwashe , Thekkur Pruthu , Wurie Isatta
Published: June 2021

The Post-Ebola era (2017–2019) presented an opportunity for laboratory investments in Sierra Leone. US CDC supported the Ministry of Health and Sanitation to establish a microbiological unit for routine antimicrobial sensitivity testing in two referral (pediatric and maternity) hospitals in Freetown. This study describes resistance patterns among patients’ laboratory samples from 2017 to 2019 using routine data. Samples included urine, stool, cerebrospinal fluid, pus-wound, pleural fluid, and high vaginal swabs. Selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility. Of 200 samples received by the laboratory, 89 returned positive bacterial isolates with urine and pus-wound swabs accounting for 75% of positive isolates. The number of positive isolates increased annually from one in 2017 to 42 in 2018 and 46 in 2019. Resistance of the cultures to at least one antibiotic was high (91%), and even higher in the pediatric hospital (94%). Resistance was highest with penicillin (81%) for Gram-positive bacteria and lowest with nitrofurantoin (13%). Gram-negative bacteria were most resistant to ampicillin, gentamycin, streptomycin, tetracycline, cephalothin and penicillin (100%) and least resistant to novobiocin (0%). Antibiotic resistance for commonly prescribed antibiotics was high in two referral hospitals, highlighting the urgent need for antimicrobial stewardship and access to reserve antibiotics.
Diversity and Distribution of Viruses Infecting Wild and Domesticated Phaseolus spp. in the Mesoamerican Center of Domestication
Authors: Chiquito-Almanza Elizabeth , Caballero-Pérez Juan , Acosta-Gallegos Jorge A. , Montero-Tavera Victor , Mariscal-Amaro Luis Antonio , Anaya-López José Luis
Published: June 2021

Viruses are an important disease source for beans. In order to evaluate the impact of virus disease on Phaseolus biodiversity, we determined the identity and distribution of viruses infecting wild and domesticated Phaseolus spp. in the Mesoamerican Center of Domestication (MCD) and the western state of Nayarit, Mexico. We used small RNA sequencing and assembly to identify complete or near-complete sequences of forty-seven genomes belonging to nine viral species of five genera, as well as partial sequences of two putative new endornaviruses and five badnavirus- and pararetrovirus-like sequences. The prevalence of viruses in domesticated beans was significantly higher than in wild beans (97% vs. 19%; p < 0.001), and all samples from domesticated beans were positive for at least one virus species. In contrast, no viruses were detected in 80–83% of the samples from wild beans. The Bean common mosaic virus and Bean common mosaic necrosis virus were the most prevalent viruses in wild and domesticated beans. Nevertheless, Cowpea mild mottle virus, transmitted by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci, has the potential to emerge as an important pathogen because it is both seed-borne and a non-persistently transmitted virus. Our results provide insights into the distribution of viruses in cultivated and wild Phaseolus spp. and will be useful for the identification of emerging viruses and the development of strategies for bean viral disease management in a center of diversity.
Inhibition of p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Impairs Mayaro Virus Replication in Human Dermal Fibroblasts and HeLa Cells
Authors: Sugasti-Salazar Madelaine , Llamas-González Yessica Y. , Campos Dalkiria , González-Santamaría José
Published: June 2021

Mayaro virus (MAYV) hijacks the host’s cell machinery to effectively replicate. The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) p38, JNK, and ERK1/2 have emerged as crucial cellular factors implicated in different stages of the viral cycle. However, whether MAYV uses these MAPKs to competently replicate has not yet been determined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of MAPK inhibition on MAYV replication using primary human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and HeLa cells. Viral yields in supernatants from MAYV-infected cells treated or untreated with inhibitors SB203580, SP600125, U0126, or Losmapimod were quantified using plaque assay. Additionally, viral protein expression was analyzed using immunoblot and immunofluorescence. Knockdown of p38⍺/p38β isoforms was performed in HDFs using the PROTACs molecule NR-7h. Our data demonstrated that HDFs are highly susceptible to MAYV infection. SB203580, a p38 inhibitor, reduced MAYV replication in a dose-dependent manner in both HDFs and HeLa cells. Additionally, SB203580 significantly decreased viral E1 protein expression. Similarly, knockdown or inhibition of p38⍺/p38β isoforms with NR-7h or Losmapimod, respectively, affected MAYV replication in a dose-dependent manner. Collectively, these findings suggest that p38 could play an important role in MAYV replication and could serve as a therapeutic target to control MAYV infection.
Organization Of Medical Personnel Training During A New Type Of Coronavirus Pandemic: Experience Of The Medico-Biological University Of Innovation And Continuing Education (Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center Of Federal Medical Biological Agency)
Authors: Kuznetsova Olga
Published: June 2021

The article is devoted to the problems of organizing training of doctors during a new type of coronavirus pandemic. The author describes the experience of the Federal research center in training doctors to work in infectious diseases hospitals. Much attention is paid to the organization of the educational process for residents and postgraduates. The describes the experience about the importance of the experience gained for understanding the prospects of the education system and the great role of the teaching staff in overcoming the difficulties caused by the COVID-2019 pandemic.
REVISÃO BIBLIOGRÁFICA E ANÁLISE DA PREVALÊNCIA E MORTALIDADE DA NEOPLASIA MALIGNA DO ESTÔMAGO NO BRASIL NOS ÚLTIMOS 10 ANOS
Authors: Vargas Rafael Otero Amaral , Ragoni Pedro Henrique de Moura , Povill Yuri Gonçalves , de Azeredo Henrique Rabelo , Hadid Leonardo , Espasandin Viviane Lozano
Published: June 2021

Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico observacional transversal, com o objetivo de analisar a prevalência, taxa de mortalidade e óbitos decorrentes da neoplasia maligna de estômago no Brasil, por região nos últimos 10 anos e comparar as diferenças entre gêneros e a distribuição no território nacional. A análise foi feita através de dados secundários obtidos pelo sistema do DATASUS, com as variáveis epidemiológicas: sexo, números de internações, óbitos e taxa de mortalidade de acordo com o critério cronológico das internações hospitalares autorizadas no período compreendido entre maio/2010 e maio/2020. Durante o período houve 251.835 internações pelo câncer de estômago no Brasil, destas, 162.908 (64,69%) pela população masculina e 88.927 (35,31%) pela feminina; o número total de óbitos foi 42.042, sendo 27.139 (64,54%) na população masculina e 14.910 (35,46%) na população feminina; além de uma taxa de mortalidade de 16,7%, sendo 16,66% na população masculina e 16,77% na feminina. A região Sudeste apresentou o maior número de internações, 115.333 (45,80%), e o maior número de óbitos, 21.243 (50,52%), enquanto a região Norte apresentou a maior taxa de mortalidade, 21,4%. Apesar de notar-se um paulatino aumento no número de internações e mortes no período, o que se revela como um aumento no número de casos, pode ser interpretado como um dado positivo, pois sugere um maior acesso às promoções de saúde e a diagnósticos mais precoces, refletindo na diminuição da taxa de mortalidade da doença na última década.
Türkçe Ders Kitabındaki Metinlerin Değerler Eğitimi Açısından İncelenmesi ve Öğretmen Görüşlerine Göre Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: DERSE Gizem Ezgi , COŞKUN Hatice
Published: June 2021

Çalışmanın amacı Türkçe ders kitabındaki metinleri değerler eğitimi açısından incelemek ve öğretmen görüşleri bağlamında değerlendirmektir. Nitel araştırma yöntemine göre düzenlenen bu çalışmada veri toplama aracı olarak yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme ve doküman inceleme teknikleri kullanılmıştır. Çalışma dokümanı 6. sınıf Eksen Yayınları Türkçe ders kitabıdır. 10 Türkçe öğretmeni ile değer algıları ve değer aktarımında 6. sınıf Türkçe ders kitabındaki metinler ile ilgili görüşmeler yapılmıştır. 6. sınıf Türkçe ders kitabında bulunan 40 metinde 27 değerin 247 defa geçtiği tespit edilmiştir. Metinlerde en çok rastlanan değer sorumluluk değeridir. Metinlerde estetik duyguların geliştirilmesi ve alçakgönüllülük değerlerine ise hiç rastlanmamıştır. Değerlerin en fazla yer aldığı metin türü hikâye edici metinler, en az yer aldığı metin türü ise şiirlerdir. Bilgilendirici ve hikâye edici metinlerde en fazla sorumluluk değerine, şiirlerde ise en fazla vatanseverlik değerine rastlanmıştır. Öğretmen görüşleri incelendiğinde değerler eğitimi kavramıyla ilgili öğretmenlerin en sık bahsettiği değerler hoşgörü, sevgi ve yardımseverlik olmuştur. Öğretmenler, olumsuz olarak değerlerin eğitim boyutuyla sınırlandırılması, değerler eğitimine gerekli önemin verilmemesi ve sistemden kaynaklanan sorunlar nedeniyle değerlerin geri plânda kalması görüşlerini belirtmişlerdir. Öğretmenlerin metinlerde en çok yer verilmesini istedikleri değerin saygı değeri olduğu görülmektedir. Görüşmeler sonucunda değerlerin ders kitaplarındaki metinler aracılığıyla verilmesi gerektiği sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
Kırsalda ve Kentte Yaşayan Kadınların Aile Değerlerinin Karşılaştırılması
Authors: ÖZYÜREK Arzu , AYDIN Ayşenur
Published: June 2021

Bu çalışmada, kırsalda ve kent merkezinde ikamet eden evli kadınların aile değerlerinin kişisel bazı değişkenlere göre incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Çalışma grubunu, kırsalda ikamet eden 60 ve şehir merkezinde ikamet eden 84 kadın olmak üzere toplam 144 evli kadın oluşturmuştur. Verilerin toplanmasında Aile Değerleri Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Veriler, kırsaldaki kadınlardan bireysel görüşme yoluyla, şehir merkezindeki kadınlardan çevrimiçi katılım yoluyla toplanmıştır. Verilerin analizinde normallik dağılımı dikkate alınarak Mann Whitney U ve Kruskal Wallis H testleri ile Spearman Brown Korelasyon katsayısından yararlanılmıştır. Sonuç olarak; kırsalda yaşayan kadınların kentte yaşayanlara göre daha fazla oranda aileyi geleneksel olarak değerlendirdikleri, çocuk bakımında anneye önem atfettikleri, çocuk yetiştirme rolüne önem verdikleri, ailede demokratik katılım olması gerektiğini düşündükleri, ailenin sosyal ve ekonomik bir yapı olarak algıladıkları, akraba ilişkilerine önem verdikleri ve geniş aileye olumlu baktıkları belirlenmiştir. Kentte yaşayan kadınların kırsalda yaşayanlara göre daha fazla cinsellikle ilgili konularda serbestlikten yana oldukları, konvansiyonel olmayan değerleri önemsedikleri, eşler arası sadakate önem verdikleri ve aile saadeti için şiddeti meşru gördükleri belirlenmiştir. Kadınların çalışıp çalışmama durumu, yaşı, öğrenim durumu, evlilik süresi ve çocuk sayısı ile aile değerlerine bakışları arasında anlamlı farklılıklar belirlenmiştir.
Leverage, Tata Kelola Perusahaan, dan Manajemen Laba Riil
Authors: Prabowo Ananto , Pangestu Indah Sari
Published: June 2021

Earnings management is conducted by key internal personels within a firm through the utility of accounting policy judgements which then mislead financial reports. The level of leverage and corporate governance have the ability to influence the degree of earnings management implementation. This research has an objective to examine the leverage and corporate governance mechanisms influence on real earnings management. This research population is included in 50 companies with the best corporate governance implementation in Indonesia for the period of 2012-2018. By using the purposive sampling method, 126 observations fit the sample criteria. This research uses a quantitative approach and secondary data with a random effects’ regression model. This research shows leverage and corporate governance mechanisms, when combined, affect real earnings management. This research's supplementary results show that leverage cannot limit real earnings management practice and consecutively on corporate governance mechanism. Independent board of commissioner negatively and significantly exert influence on real earnings management, followed by the audit committee, reducing real earnings management practice. Meanwhile, institutional and managerial ownership do not present a significant merit on real earnings management. This research implicates the policy maker in justifying good corporate governance and practioners to look upon the possibility of real activities manipulation.
Interface entre pédopsychiatrie et pédiatrie – illustré par le concept bâlois du traitement interdisciplinaire des troubles fonctionnels de la défécation
Authors: Bolten Margarete , Légeret Corinne
Published: June 2021

Les troubles de la défécation sont une cause fréquente de consultation en pédiatrie. Par ce terme on entend toutes les difficultés à éliminer la nourriture ne pouvant être expliquées par des causes organiques ou biochimiques uniquement. Des troubles typiques de ce spectre sont la constipation chronique, les douleurs à la défécation, les lésions péri-anales ou des selles de gros calibre. Peuvent aussi se manifester une perte d’appétit, des douleurs abdominales récidivantes, une encoprésie ou énurésie. Chez les enfants avec des troubles fonctionnels de la défécation apparaissent souvent des symptômes secondaires sous forme de troubles du comportement tels un comportement oppositionnel ou agressif, mais aussi anxieux, dépressif ou de retrait relationnel.
Santé psychique lors de maladies chroniques à l’exemple de l’hémophilie
Authors: De Gaudenzi Martina , Kremer Hovinga Johanna A. , Rössler Jochen , Kaess Michael , Kartal-Kaess Mutlu
Published: June 2021

La prévalence des maladies chroniques et des handicaps pendant l’enfance et l’adolescence atteint en Suisse env. 6-10%. Pour ces enfants et leurs familles, mais aussi la société ils représentent un défi à vie. Les personnes concernées se voient confrontées pendant toute leur existence à de nombreux enjeux et risques pour leur santé, elles doivent donc être considérées comme particulièrement vulnérables. Pour les parents et tous les membres de la famille, la maladie chronique peut représenter une énorme charge physique, émotionnelle, psychique et financière.
Doğadan Esinlenen Optimizasyon Algoritmaları Tabanlı Kesir Dereceli PID Denetleyicilerle Kontrol Edilen Bir Santral Modelinin Performansının İncelemesi
Authors: SEZER Kunter Sercan , BAYHAN Nevra
Published: June 2021

Bu çalışmada, klasik oransal-integral-türev (PID) kontrolörlerin gelişmiş hali olan kesir dereceli oransal-integral-türev (FOPID) kontrolörlerden faydalanılarak basitleştirilmiş gaz türbinli bir santral modeli için denetlemenin hassas şekilde yapılabilmesi sağlanmıştır. Klasik PID kontrolörler (denetleyiciler) üç parametre içerirken, kesir dereceli PID kontrolörler beş parametre içerir. Parametre sayısının fazla olması daha hassas denetlemenin yapılabilmesine olanak sağlar, ancak bu durum kontrolörün optimizasyonunu zorlaştırır. Kesir dereceli PID kontrolörlerin geleneksel matematiksel yöntemler ile optimizasyonu zor olduğu için; bu çalışmada, doğadan esinlenen (meta-sezgisel) optimizasyon algoritmaları arasında yer alan balina optimizasyon algoritması (BOA), salp sürüsü algoritması (SSA), yapay arı kolonisi (YAK) ve atom arama optimizasyon algoritması (AAO) kullanılmıştır. Bu dört farklı algoritmayla optimize edilen FOPID kontrolör parametreleri, basitleştirilmiş gaz türbini enerji santrali modeline uygulanmış ve sistem çıkış sinyallerinin geçici yanıt performansları karşılaştırılmıştır. Bu amaçla yerleşme süresi ve yüzde en büyük aşım, karşılaştırma kriteri olarak kullanılmıştır. Simulasyon sonuçları, yapay arı kolonisi (YAK) algoritmasıyla optimize edilmiş FOPID kontrolörün, bu santral modeli için yerleşme süresi ve yüzde en büyük aşım kriterleri açısından diğer algoritmalarla optimize edilmiş FOPID kontrolörlere göre daha iyi performans sergilediğini göstermektedir.