bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comportamiento de consumo a raíz de la pandemia en Bucaramanga y AMB
Authors: Prieto Cuentas Narcy Carolina , Theran Barajas Carmen Elisa
Published: September 2021

La presente investigación, es de tipo exploratoria cualitativa y su objetivo es establecer cambios en el comportamiento de consumo en habitantes de Bucaramanga y su Área Metropolitana (AMB), durante la pandemia. Esta investigación se desarrolla a partir del establecimiento del panorama parcial de la investigación para “Comportamiento de consumo” con Scopus, desde el inicio de la propagación del virus (2020) hasta abril del año 2021; indicado las tendencias y cambios para la temática de estudio, desde la literatura en este periodo y su correlación con información primaria tomada desde la población económicamente activa de Bucaramanga y su AMB. Como principales hallazgos se tiene un incremento en el consumo de productos de la canasta familiar en un 45%, productos de aseo y limpieza (53%), una disminución en el consumo de licores en un 51%, productos para mascotas (34%), calzado y textiles (54%), electrodomésticos (37%) y cosméticos (50%). Los servicios turísticos y de entretenimiento presentan el mayor detrimento con una disminución del 77% y un 78% respectivamente. Concluyendo que en el territorio un 66% de los consumidores ha cambiado la forma de adquirir sus productos a raíz de la pandemia, de forma similar a la registrada en la literatura.
Investigating the impact of Electroacoustic Music in Greek Culture, through a portfolio of Electroacoustic Music works which explore religious and mythological aspects of Greece.
Authors: EPAMEINONDAS P. FASIANOS
Published: September 2021

My research investigated the viability of various electroacoustic music compositional approaches, which were used in a series of works that explored specific relationships between real-world and abstracted sound materials, through the strategic use of pitched, melodic, and non-pitched materials (as well as specific characteristics and behaviours of those materials) as integral elements in the composition. All of the compositions were linked to Greece in various ways, either directly or symbolically. My primary goal was to present transformed aspects of Greece while exploring all of these different levels musically through electroacoustic music. Furthermore, I attempted to explore new electroacoustic music territories by embarking on a journey from real-world instrumental and concrete soundworlds based on aspects of Greek culture (religion, mythology) to abstract soundworlds. Real-world soundworlds are made up of sounds, spaces, and places that have the potential to communicate human experiences such as familiar impressions, aural images, and evocations for the listener. Abstract soundworlds that emerge from real-world ones via various transformation processes include specific sounds, spaces, and places that can be notably different from those that emerge from real-world soundworlds. My main overall goal was to develop innovative techniques and processes that explore the intersections, contrasts, connections, and discourse between the two.
auto-ethno r/c
Authors: christian scott
Published: September 2021

performing autoethnography requires writing that is dangerous, messy, risky.
The politics of creative justice: Conversations on creative processes
Authors: Srivi Kalyan
Published: September 2021

This exposition explores the question of creative justice in creative processes and pedagogy. Through an evolving conversation on a chat app, a mentor shares her creative process of a painting that she is emerging with her students at the Masters level. And interwoven through these, they evolve a pedagogy of artistic research, decolonization, reflective inquiry into self, aesthetic encounters with their own cultures, Indian aesthetics and philosophies, meandering and pondering together. The exposition is constructed in four parts. Part 1:Utopia and the politics of creative justice. Part 2: The Conversations through chats. Part 3 - Student responses and reflections. Part 4:
Part 4: Teaching as philosophy of a way of being. The mentor journeys through over twenty five years of her practice, inviting her students to participate, question, reflect and ponder with her, offering a creative pedagogy for artistic research that is also bound in the politics of creative justice.
Methods of Exchange – Digital Residency
Authors: Emma J Fishwick
Published: September 2021

Methods of Exchange – Digital Residency
Perth – Seoul
2021

Over a few months in early 2021, Emma Fishwick & Serena Chalker (AU) worked in parallel to Gong-Won (KR) through Seoul Dance Centre (SDC) and their Digital Residency program.
Developing creative relationships during these uncertain times, this digital canvas captures process as product and is part of a broader program of international engagement through dialogue, documentation and artistic sharing. This website attempts to capture our artist-led peer-to-peer mentorship, cultural & skills exchange, facilitated by this virtual residency.

Things that we have talked about: labour, process as the artwork, language across form and geographies, mapping of place and self, virtual Vs physical, place Vs placelessness and asking ‘what is a digital residency’? We have been finding connection between the seemingly disconnected threads in our works and in turn our worlds. We landed on ways of expressing space and time that is not linear or hierarchical through layering of memory, ideas, form and so on.

The work is doing the work of figuring out what the work is. The labour of being an artist is made visible: always questioning, reformulating, reworking.

All content on this page is created by Serena Chalker, Emma Fishwick, Gong-Won – 2021.
Serena Chalker (www.serenachalker.com) | Gong-Won (https://www.hellosuyoung.com) | Emma Fishwick (www.emmafishwick.com)
Assessment of needle tip geometry during infusions into a brain phantom gel
Authors: Orozco Grajales Gustavo Alejandro , Casanova García Fernando , García Álvarez Jose Jaime
Published: September 2021

Convection-enhanced delivery (CED) is a promising method to deliver therapeutic drugs directly into the brain that has shown limited efficacy, mainly attributed to backflow, in which the infused drug flows back along the needle track rather than forward into tissue. This study evaluates the effect of sharp and blunt needle tips on backflow length under different flow rates via CED. Infusions were performed in a transparent 0.6% (w/v) brain phantom agarose hydrogel. Backflow length was significantly higher using sharp-tip needles for higher flow rates. No significant differences were observed between tip shapes for lower flow rates. In conclusion, sharp-tip needles present limitations for higher flow rates, which are needed to deliver more drug during shortest times.
Mapeo y caracterización de servicios ecosistémicos en fincas cultivadas con plátano, Quindío, Colombia (septiembre 2019)
Authors: Botero Arango Alberto Javier , Feijoo Martinez Alexander , Molina Rico Ligia Janneth , Quintero Vargas Heimar
Published: September 2021

La manera como los agricultores perciben los SE en los agroecosistemas, permite identificar escenarios de interacciones y brindan información de los vínculos entre los humanos y su entorno, y contribuyen con la indagación de las maneras de reducir los impactos futuros en la sociedad ante los constantes cambios ambientales. Se mapearon los indicadores relacionados con los Servicios Ecosistémicos de Regulación, Aprovisionamiento y Culturales, a partir de entrevistas semiestructuradas de propietarios y administradores de 32 fincas con cultivos de plátano, en Quindío Colombia se realizaron tres visitas por predio y se utilizaron métodos etnográficos como medio de recolección de datos, tales como, el diálogo, acercamiento a los agricultores y sus familias y la entrevista semiestructurada. Se tomaron fotografías aéreas, con el fin de efectuar la división de los lotes. En dichos lotes se tuvo en cuenta la posición geoespacial de los indicadores de los SE. Los mapas se crearon por medio del software Argis 10.1.1 una herramienta de Sistema de Información Geográfica (SIG). La combinación del mapeo participativo de los indicadores asociados con los servicios ecosistémicos, con la herramienta SIG y el análisis jerárquico de conglomerados, permitió agrupar las fincas, facilitando la identificación de los lotes en que se presentan tanto amenazas como fortalezas en la generación de dichos servicios ecosistémicos. Las percepciones de los agricultores se pueden representar en mapas, que les permiten visualizar más fácilmente para la toma de decisiones. En la literatura estudiada no se encontró documentación relacionada con el mapeo participativo y la caracterización de los servicios ecosistémicos, dirigido específicamente a fincas con cultivos de plátano, por lo que los aportes de este artículo contribuyen como una primera aproximación real sobre la investigación propuesta.
Nanocompuestos de quitosano aplicados al campo de la medicina regenerativa. Una revisión sistemática
Authors: Arias-Andrade Yeidy Viviana , Veloza Luz Angela , Sepúlveda-Arias Juan Carlos
Published: September 2021

El quitosano es un biopolímero obtenido de la quitina presente en el exoesqueleto de crustáceos, insectos, arácnidos y en la pared celular de los hongos. Investigaciones recientes han confirmado el uso del quitosano como biomaterial prometedor debido a características como estructura porosa, facilidad de modificación química, alta afinidad hacia macromoléculas in vivo, entre otras. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar las aplicaciones del quitosano como biomaterial en medicina regenerativa. Se realizó una búsqueda de la literatura en el período comprendido entre 2013-2018 en las bases de datos PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science y Embase. En esta revisión, la herramienta “ToxRTool” (Toxicological data Reliability Assessment Tool) se usó para evaluar la calidad y confiabilidad metodológica de los estudios evaluados. Los nanocompuestos de quitosano se están evaluando con metodologías in vitro (92.59%), empleando diversos componentes de acople y en múltiples aplicaciones. Sin embargo, la falta de información metodológica con relación al uso de controles en los estudios dificulta la reproducibilidad de los mismos e introducen limitaciones para el posterior desarrollo de estudios in vivo. La herramienta ToxRTool fue útil para identificar ocho estudios (29.6%) como “Confiable sin restricciones” y 19 estudios (70.4%) como “Confiable con restricciones”, indicando que se requieren estudios más cuidadosos con relación a la toxicidad de los nanocompuestos de quitosano. El quitosano es un biomaterial versátil lo que ha permitido su incorporación en una amplia variedad de componentes mejorando sus propiedades biológicas, mecánicas y físicas, obteniendo así nanocompuestos cada vez más útiles y eficaces para uso nanomedicina.
Automatización del proceso de limpieza del filtro tipo canastilla y malla del sistema buque tanques de la terminal marítima Pozos Colorados
Authors: Gasca-Mantilla Maira Cecilia , Castillo Mario N. , Montes Castilla Edgar Eduardo , Camargo Ariza Luis Leonardo
Published: September 2021

El artículo presenta una solución tecnológica para mejorar un proceso en la terminal marítima petrolera Pozos Colorados. El objetivo de la solución es automatizar el lavado de los filtros tipo canastilla y malla del sistema de filtrado Buquetanque empleado en el recibo de hidrocarburos. El propósito de la solución es mejorar las condiciones de seguridad industrial y salud ocupacional de los trabajadores que realizan esta función de forma manual, y optimizar el proceso de recepción de hidrocarburos al mejorar los tiempos de operación. Para la elaborar la propuesta se emplea la metodología fundamenta en la ingeniería básica y de detalle, aplicada a la ingeniería de automatización, contemplando la narrativa: de proceso, de diseño y de evaluación. La propuesta entrega el diseño de: el sistema hidráulico, el sistema eléctrico y el sistema de control. La solución contempla: captar el agua de la piscina de almacenamiento, y por medio de una electrobomba de presión controlada transportar el fluido hasta la zona del filtrado; y posteriormente limpiar los filtros utilizando un ramal de aspersores ubicados dentro la canasta. El proceso de lavado es manipulado por medio de electroválvulas y un variador de velocidad, estos están gobernadas por un controlador lógico programable, este recibe información de las variables involucradas por medio de sensores. El modelado, simulación y evaluaciones de la propuesta sustentan la posibilidad de implementar la automatización realizando algunas adecuaciones a la infraestructura existente y adicionando unos elementos eléctricos, mecánicos y electrónicos
A Bilevel Attacker-Defender Model for Enhancing Power Systems Resilience with Distributed Generation
Authors: López Lezama Jesús María , Restrepo Cuestas Bonie Johana , Hernández Valencia Juan Pablo
Published: September 2021

Electric transmission and distribution systems are subject not only to natural occurring outages but also to intentional attacks. These lasts performed by malicious agents that aim at maximizing the load shedding of the system. Intentional attacks are counteracted by the reaction of the system operator which deploys strategies to minimize the damage caused by such attacks. This paper presents a bilevel modeling approach for enhancing resilience of power systems with high participation of distributed generation (DG). The model describes the interaction of a disruptive agent that aims at maximizing damage to a power system and the system operator that resorts to different strategies to minimize system damage. The proposed mixed integer nonlinear programming model is solved with a hybrid genetic algorithm. Results are presented on a benchmark power system showing the optimal responses of the system operator for a set of deliberate attacks. It was observed that the higher the participation of DG the lower the impact of the attacks was. The presence of DG also influenced the optimal strategies of the attacker which in some cases deviated from optimal attack plans to suboptimal solutions. This allows concluding that the presence of DG benefits the power system in terms of less expected load shedding under intentional attacks.
Análisis de algunas técnicas iterativas para sistemas de ecuaciones lineales y su estudio de la convergencia a través del número de condicionamiento
Authors: Mesa Fernando , Devia Narváez Diana Marcela , Correa Vélez German
Published: September 2021

At present, numerical analysis provides us with powerful tools to determine the solution of various problems whose mathematical model can be represented by a system of linear equations, these tools correspond to a number of direct and iterative methods, among which are Carl's method. Gustav Jakob Jacobi and the Doolittle and Crout method, which we analyze and compare in this document. To do this we will initially explore the concepts of conditioning the problem to determine how stable is the system from which the model was obtained, until we reach the decomposition of LU arrays proposed in the Doolittle and Crout method. As a result of the analysis and comparison in this document, depending on what is sought when solving a system of equations, either very large or small enough for our computer, we can choose an approximation that will bring a short-term result with an error. Due to the starting point as proposed in the Jacobi method, or it is possible to reach a direct result by implementing fewer iterations as proposed in the Doolittle and Crout metho
CMMSE: Combinatorial structures and finite-dimensional alternative algebras
Authors: Ceballos Manuel
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the link between combinatorial structures and alternative
algebras is studied, determining which configurations are associated
with those algebras. Moreover, the isomorphism classes of each
2-dimensional configuration associated with these algebras is analyzed,
providing a new method to classify them. In order to complement the
theoretical study, two algorithmic methods are implemented: the first
one constructs and draws the (pseudo)digraph associated with a given
alternative algebra and the second one tests if a given combinatorial
structure is associated with some alternative algebra.
Human papillomavirus infection with anogenital warts in a patient with chronic psoriasis: A case report
Authors: Hsieh Wu-Feng , Pu Ta-Wei , Kang Jung-Cheng , Chen Chao-Yang , Hu Je-Ming , Lin Kuan-hsun
Published: September 2021

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease with characteristic skin
manifestations. Several pathogens can cause flare-ups of psoriasis. The
risks of skin infections are increased in patients receiving
immunomodulators. A patient with chronic psoriasis presented with human
papillomavirus infection and anogenital warts and was treated surgically
with acceptable results.
TEACHER'S DISTRIBUTION PATTERN AS DETERMINANTS OF EFFECTIVE TEACHING AND LEARNING IN NIGERIA SECONDARY SCHOOLS
Authors: Ekere Scott , Olurotimi Ogunlade J , Olusola Adeleye J
Published: September 2021

The study investigated teacher’s demographic factors to ascertain teaching learning issues in Nigeria. As a descriptive survey, teachers and students in senior secondary schools in Ekiti State constituted the study population. The sample comprised of 288 teachers and 1920 students, randomly selected from 32 schools that were stratified, selected and drawn from 16 local government areas in Ekiti State. Four different measuring instruments were used to collect data. The data collected were subjected to statistical analysis using t-test. Findings from the documentary evidence revealed there is uneven distribution of teachers between sex and location, while statistical calculation results revealed that there is a difference between the effectiveness of male and female teachers as well as teachers from both urban and rural locations in the improvement of teaching and learning. The study recommended that government should do more to monitor implementation stages of its education policy with special regard to gender and locations of teachers. Serious and genuine implementation of policy is as important as its formulation. The inspectorate division of the ministry of education should take seriously the distribution of teachers and monitoring of what goes on in our classrooms, especially schools in rural areas where students expect ”miracle” passes.
Beware of the ambiguous enemy of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adult (MIS-A) following Covid-19 infection or vaccination.
Authors: Bishawi Ahmad Al , Ali Maisa , Al-Zubaidi Khaled , Hadi Hamad Abdel
Published: September 2021

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome is a rare and novel clinical
presentation described during the evolving Covid- 19 pandemic. The
condition is usually presenting as a sepsis-like syndrome leading to
secondary multiorgan dysfunction post-COVID-19 infection. Although the
syndrome has been mainly described in children, rare adults’ form has
been similarly described.
Exploring Performance in Air Force Science and Technology Programs
Authors: Plack MSgt Eric A. , Ritschel Jonathan D. , White Edward D. , Koschnick Lt Col Clay M. , Drylie Lt Col Scott T.
Published: September 2021

Science and technology (S&T) programs serve an important function in the defense acquisition process as the initial phase leading to discovery and development of warfighting technology. The results of these programs impact the larger Major Defense Acquisition Programs, which integrate the technologies in subsequent phases of the life cycle. Despite this important role, little prior research has examined the performance of S&T programs. In this study, the authors investigate the impact of technological maturation as a critical success factor in Air Force S&T programs. The results suggest that S&T programs with mature technologies are more likely to experience above average cost growth and larger contract values while less likely to experience schedule growth. Additionally, the authors find the partnership method between the government and contractor matters for both technological maturation and schedule growth. Lastly, the nature of the S&T program is important, with aerospace programs more likely to technologically mature than human systems programs.
Aligning Program Management Competencies to Industry Standards
Authors: Karnes First Lt Jonathan L , Mortlock COL Robert F.
Published: September 2021

The 2020 National Defense Authorization Act mandated that acquisition career fields realign their certification requirements to be based on the nationally recognized standards of an accredited third party. This study offers recommendations for improving the DoD program management (PM) training standards by providing traceability between the DoD PM competencies and the Project Management Institute (PMI)’s standards for project, program, and portfolio management. The study elaborates on the extent of alignment, finding that 96% of the DoD PM competency elements align to PMI standards. Areas of misalignment identify opportunities to augment DoD PM training and highlight areas where DoD PM training deviates from industry standards.
Detecting the relations between meteorological elements and alpha and beta activity concentration at Al-Tuwaitha site, Baghdad
Authors: Naif Salwa S. , Al-Rbayee Thoalfaqar , Al-Jiboori Monim H.
Published: September 2021

In this study, 50 samples of air particulates collected from different places in- and outside the Al-Tuwaitha nuclear site, south of Baghdad were used to measure daily gross alpha and beta activity concentrations (AAC and BAC) for the period from 28 January 2015 to 13 April 2017. At the same time, several meteorological factors such as air temperature, wind speed, wind direction, air pressure, relative humidity, and solar radiation, were also measured. Air stability classes were also derived from wind speed and solar radiation. AAC/BAC variations in the surface air layer were discussed in relation to these factors. The results show that there are inverse relations between AAC/BAC and wind speed and temperature, linear relations between AAC/ABC and air pressure and weak relations between AAC/BAC and relative humidity and solar radiation. Lastly, AAC/BAC measurements in unstable air are as large as in neutral air.
Approaching of May maximum surface air temperature to characteristic summer season for Baghdad city
Authors: Muter Sara A. , Kadhum Jasim H. , Hassan Ahmed S.
Published: September 2021

Seasonal variability is the complex non-linear response of the physical climate system. There are two types of natural variability: those external and internal to the climate system. In any given season, natural variability may cause the climate to be different than its long-term average. This study examines with the seasonal variation of the maximum temperatures during the summer season. In addition, the maximum temperatures in May become close to the characteristics of the summer season. The monthly data for maximum temperature of May, June and July were used from Iraqi Meteorological Organization and Seismology (IMOS) for 47 years from 1970 to 2017 for Baghdad city. This period was long enough to estimate the range of approaching maximum temperature (Tmax) May to summer. Results revealed a significant Tmax for Baghdad during the second period (1992–2017) and ?shown similar behavior of Tmax in May to June and July; on the contrary that first period (1970–1991). In second period, two phases have been found out, positive phase and negative phase. The positive phase were happened in 1995, 1999, and 2006, and the negative phase was four cases (1992, 2004, 2013, and 2016), while a few cases recorded in first period. The amplitudes of monthly variability had same distance of leaner correlation especially in 1999 and 2013 that represent coherent wave with summer seasons. The variance difference for Tmax between May and June approximately was 2°C for second study’s period, while exceed this range in first period. This variance change to 7.5°C when found difference between July and May.
Mesoscale modeling of fracture in cement and asphalt concrete
Authors: Al-Jelawy Haider M. , Al-Rumaithi Ayad , Fadhil Aqeel T. , Naji Alaa J.
Published: September 2021

In this paper, mesoscale modeling is performed to simulate and understand fracture behavior of two concrete composites: cement and asphalt concrete using disk-shaped compact tension (DCT) tests. Mesoscale models are used as alternative to macroscale models to obtain better realistic behavior of composite and heterogeneous materials such as cement and asphalt concrete. In mesoscale models, aggregate and matrix are represented as distinct materials and each material has its characteristic properties. Disk-shaped compact tension test is used to obtain tensile strength and fracture energy of materials. This test can be used as a better alternative to other tests such as three points bending tests because it is more convenient for both field and laboratory specimens in addition to its accurate results. Comparing the numerical results of the mesoscale models of cement and asphalt concrete specimens with experimental data shows that these models can predict the behavior of these composite materials very well as seen in the curves of load-crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD). Also, the mesoscale modeling highlights the variability of crack direction where it is dependent on the random distribution of aggregate.
Sustainable acoustic insulation for prefabricated concrete homes in Andean zones
Authors: Paredes Marcel , Lopez Fausto , Castillo Tito , Andrade Alexis , Arroba Valeria
Published: September 2021

The construction sector is undoubtedly one of the main promoters for economic and social development. The modern concept of the prefabrication of elements originated from the industrial revolution to reduce costs and increase production through the mechanization of work, increasing the quality and ease of control in the plant. Prefabricated concrete homes are aimed at the popular sectors, however, when talking about acoustic habitability comfort we refer to constructive solutions used in a building to minimize the transmission of sounds (noise pollution) from outside or from an adjoining enclosure. This is achieved with the use of acoustic insulation materials. In the present research, through a bibliographic review, the updated state-of-the-art search methodology is developed, supported by the Delphi and AHP (hierarchical analytical process) methods and with the opinion of experts to compare the properties of acoustic insulating materials; in order to publicize the best acoustic insulators to be installed inside prefabricated concrete homes. Within the bibliographic review, new technologies with sustainable materials found as feasible prototypes were investigated in Ecuador, where thanks to its diversity of ecosystems and the necessary existing technology, the natural fibers used in the prototypes for insulation/absorption are easily found acoustics in homes.
Comparison inequalities of Bernstein-type between polynomials with restricted zeros
Authors: Mir Abdullah
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we establish certain comparison inequalities of Bernstein-type for a linear operator between complex polynomials under certain constraints on their zeros. A variety of interesting results follow as special cases from our results.
A critical account of the concept of de-objectified hatred
Authors: Losoncz Mark
Published: September 2021

This paper looks at Thomas Szanto?s theory of hatred that suggests that
hatred has an indeterminate affective focus and that it derives its
intensity from the commitment to the attitude itself. Contrary to Szanto?s
theses, this paper claims that the hated properties are not necessarily
fuzzy. On the contrary, in many cases we can clearly reconstruct the
quasi-rational genesis of hatred, by relying on the deep structures behind
the social dynamics (as demonstrated by the example of anti-Semitism).
Furthermore, the paper states that even though in certain cases hatred is a
truly empty of content, these cases are marginal in comparison to other,
more important forms of hatred.
Some remarks on unfocused hatred: Identity of the hated one and criteria of adequacy
Authors: Cvejic Igor
Published: September 2021

Thomas Szanto has recently argued that hatred could not be a fitting emotion
because of its blurred focus. It thus cannot trace the properties of its
intentional object. Although I agree with the core of Szanto?s account, I
would like to discuss two connected issues that might be of importance.
First, I want to address whether the unfittingness of hatred has anything to
do with the possibility that the hated person does not identify with what
they are hated for. I conclude that if the focus of hatred is blurred,
hatred does not trace the identification of the hated person or group. Next,
I propose a possibility that (certain) criteria of adequacy of hatred (why
someone is treated by members of society as hateworthy) are embedded in the
cultural and social framework in such a way that they are not necessarily
intelligibly justified by their relation to the focus and import it has.
Under such circumstances, with hatred still being unfitting, these criteria
create quasi-correctness of hatred (actually, they trace properties of
someone being hateworthy). If this is correct, it will enable us to keep the
thesis that hatred cannot be fitting. At the same time, we could use
political vocabulary to tackle hatred that is common in cases when a group
will not give up their commitment to hatred and argue that some people or
group of people is not to be hated under the hating group?s own criteria.
Warfare and group solidarity: From Ibn Khaldun to Ernest Gellner and beyond
Authors: Malesevic Sinisa
Published: September 2021

Ibn Khaldun and Ernest Gellner have both developed comprehensive yet very
different theories of social cohesion. Whereas Ibn Khaldun traces the
development of intense group solidarity to the ascetic lifestyles of nomadic
warriors, for Gellner social cohesion is a product of different material
conditions. In contrast to Ibn Khaldun?s theory, where all social ties are
generated through similar social processes, in Gellner?s model the patterns
of collective solidarity change through time, that is, different societies
produce different forms of social cohesion. While Ibn Khaldun argues that
asbiyyah is the backbone of group unity in all social orders, Gellner
insists that modern societies are underpinned by very different type of
collective solidarity than their premodern counterparts. In this paper I
offer a critique of Ibn Khaldun?s and Gellner?s theories of social cohesion
and develop an alternative explanation, which situates the social dynamics
of group solidarity in the organisational and ideological legacies of
warfare.
An ethics-based ‘identity-proof’ of god’s existence. An ontology for philotherapy
Authors: Fatic Aleksandar
Published: September 2021

A resurgence of scholarly work on proof of God?s existence is noticeable over
the past decade, with considerable emphasis on attempts to provide ?analytic
proof? based on the meanings and logic of various identity statements which
constitute premises of the syllogisms of the ?proof?. Most recently perhaps,
Emmanuel Rutten?s ?modal-epistemic proof? has drawn serious academic
attention. Like other ?analytic? and strictly logical proofs of God?s
existence, Rutten?s proof has been found flawed. In this paper I discuss the
possibility of an ?ethics-based? identity proof of God?s existence. Such a
proof, the first version of which, I believe, has been offered, indirectly,
by Nikolai Lossky, utilizes the form and structure of the analytic proof,
but fundamentally rests on the perception of moral values we associate with
God and Godliness. The nature of the proof shifts the focus of the very
attempt to ?prove? God?s existence from what I believe is an unreasonable
standard, unattainable even in ?proving? the existence of the more mundane
world, towards a more functional, practical and attainable standard. The
proof proposed initially by Lossky, and in a more systematic form here, I
believe, shows the indubitable existence of God in the sense of his moral
presence in the lives of the faithful, at least with the same degree of
certainty as the presence or ?existence? of anything else that can be
epistemically proven in principle.
Anterior openbite malocclusion in adults:
Authors: Gu David , Leroux Brian , Finkleman Sam , Todoki Lauren , Greenlee Geoffrey , Allareddy Veerasathpurush , Jolley Cameron , Vermette Michael , Shin Kyungsup , Kau Chung How , de Jesus-Vinas Jaime , Dolce Calogero ,   The National Dental PBRN Collaborative Group, Huang Greg
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To investigate stability and satisfaction in adult anterior open bite (AOB) patients at least 9 months post-treatment, as well as patient and practitioner factors that may be associated with stability and satisfaction.

Materials and Methods

Practitioners and their adult AOB patients were recruited through the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network. Data on patient and practitioner characteristics, treatment recommendations and factors were previously collected. Treatment stability was determined by assessing post-treatment intraoral photographs. Patient satisfaction was determined from post-treatment questionnaires. Treatment was categorized into aligners, fixed appliances, temporary anchorage devices, and orthognathic surgery. Extractions were also investigated. Retention type was categorized into vacuum-formed, Hawley-style, or bonded retainers, and regimens were classified as full-time or part-time wear.

Results

Retention data collected from 112 patients had a mean post-treatment time of 1.21 years. There were no statistically significant differences in stability between treatment groups. Depending on whether a qualitative index or a millimetric measure was employed, stability ranged from 65% to 89%. Extractions and less initial lower incisor proclination were associated with higher stability in patients treated with fixed appliances only. High satisfaction was reported by patients at retention. There were no clear differences in stability or satisfaction among retention types or regimens.

Conclusions

The stability of adult AOB orthodontic treatment was high, regardless of treatment or retainer modality. Satisfaction in adult AOB patients was high, regardless of retention type or regimen.
Imeglimin Ameliorates β-Cell Apoptosis by Modulating the Endoplasmic Reticulum Homeostasis Pathway
Authors: Li Jinghe , Inoue Ryota , Togashi Yu , Okuyama Tomoko , Satoh Aoi , Kyohara Mayu , Nishiyama Kuniyuki , Tsuno Takahiro , Miyashita Daisuke , Kin Tatsuya , Shapiro A.M. James , Chew Resilind Su Ern , Teo Adrian Kee Keong , Oyadomari Seiichi , Terauchi Yasuo , Shirakawa Jun
Published: September 2021

The effects of imeglimin, a novel antidiabetes agent, on β-cell function remain unclear. Here, we unveiled the impact of imeglimin on β-cell survival. Treatment with imeglimin augmented mitochondrial function, enhanced insulin secretion, promoted β-cell proliferation, and improved β-cell survival in mouse islets. Imeglimin upregulated the expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)–related molecules, including Chop (Ddit3), Gadd34 (Ppp1r15a), Atf3, and Sdf2l1, and decreased eIF2α phosphorylation after treatment with thapsigargin and restored global protein synthesis in β-cells under ER stress. Imeglimin failed to protect against ER stress–induced β-cell apoptosis in CHOP-deficient islets or in the presence of GADD34 inhibitor. Treatment with imeglimin showed a significant decrease in the number of apoptotic β-cells and increased β-cell mass in Akita mice. Imeglimin also protected against β-cell apoptosis in both human islets and human pluripotent stem cell–derived β-like cells. Taken together, imeglimin modulates the ER homeostasis pathway, which results in the prevention of β-cell apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo.
Association of Type 2 Diabetes, According to the Number of Risk Factors Within Target Range, With Structural Brain Abnormalities, Cognitive Performance, and Risk of Dementia
Authors: van Gennip April C.E. , Stehouwer Coen D.A. , van Boxtel Martin P.J. , Verhey Frans R.J. , Koster Annemarie , Kroon Abraham A. , Köhler Sebastian , van Greevenbroek Marleen M.J. , Wesselius Anke , Eussen Simone J.P.M. , Backes Walter H. , Jansen Jacobus F. , Schram Miranda T. , Henry Ronald M.A. , Singh-Manoux Archana , van Sloten Thomas T.
Published: September 2021

OBJECTIVE

Type 2 diabetes is associated with increased risks of cognitive dysfunction and brain abnormalities. The extent to which risk factor modification can mitigate these risks is unclear. We investigated the associations between incident dementia, cognitive performance, and brain abnormalities among individuals with type 2 diabetes, according to the number of risk factors on target, compared with control subjects without diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Prospective data were from UK Biobank of 87,856 individuals (n = 10,663 diabetes, n = 77,193 control subjects; baseline 2006–2010), with dementia follow-up until February 2018. Individuals with diabetes were categorized according to the number of seven selected risk factors within the guideline-recommended target range (nonsmoking; guideline-recommended levels of glycated hemoglobin, blood pressure, BMI, albuminuria, physical activity, and diet). Outcomes were incident dementia, domain-specific cognitive performance, white matter hyperintensities, and total brain volume.

RESULTS

After a mean follow-up of 9.0 years, 147 individuals (1.4%) with diabetes and 412 control subjects (0.5%) had incident dementia. Among individuals with diabetes, excess dementia risk decreased stepwise for a higher number of risk factors on target. Compared with control subjects (incidence rate per 1,000 person-years 0.62 [95% CI 0.56; 0.68]), individuals with diabetes who had five to seven risk factors on target had no significant excess dementia risk (absolute rate difference per 1,000 person-years 0.20 [−0.11; 0.52]; hazard ratio 1.32 [0.89; 1.95]). Similarly, differences in processing speed, executive function, and brain volumes were progressively smaller for a higher number of risk factors on target. These results were replicated in the Maastricht Study.

CONCLUSIONS

Among individuals with diabetes, excess dementia risk, lower cognitive performance, and brain abnormalities decreased stepwise for a higher number of risk factors on target.
Diabetes Microvascular Disease Diagnosis and Treatment After High-Deductible Health Plan Enrollment
Authors: Wharam J. Frank , Wallace Jamie , Argetsinger Stephanie , Zhang Fang , Lu Christine Y. , Stryjewski Tomasz P. , Ross-Degnan Dennis , Newhouse Joseph P.
Published: September 2021

OBJECTIVE

The Affordable Care Act mandates that primary preventive services have no out-of-pocket costs but does not exempt secondary prevention from out-of-pocket costs. Most commercially insured patients with diabetes have high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) that subject key microvascular disease–related services to high out-of-pocket costs. Brief treatment delays can significantly worsen microvascular disease outcomes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This cohort study used a large national commercial (and Medicare Advantage) health insurance claims data set to examine matched groups before and after an insurance design change. The study group included 50,790 patients with diabetes who were continuously enrolled in low-deductible (≤$500) health plans during a baseline year, followed by up to 4 years in high-deductible (≥$1,000) plans after an employer-mandated switch. HDHPs had low out-of-pocket costs for nephropathy screening but not retinopathy screening. A matched control group included 335,178 patients with diabetes who were contemporaneously enrolled in low-deductible plans. Measures included time to first detected microvascular disease screening, severe microvascular disease diagnosis, vision loss diagnosis/treatment, and renal function loss diagnosis/treatment.

RESULTS

HDHP enrollment was associated with relative delays in retinopathy screening (0.7 months [95% CI 0.4, 1.0]), severe retinopathy diagnosis (2.9 months [0.5, 5.3]), and vision loss diagnosis/treatment (3.8 months [1.2, 6.3]). Nephropathy-associated measures did not change to a statistically significant degree among HDHP members relative to control subjects at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

People with diabetes in HDHPs experienced delayed retinopathy diagnosis and vision loss diagnosis/treatment of up to 3.8 months compared with low-deductible plan enrollees. Findings raise concerns about visual health among HDHP members and call attention to discrepancies in Affordable Care Act cost sharing exemptions.
Karabük – Zonguldak Hattında Demiryolu Hat Kapasitesinin Modellenmesi
Authors: AKAY Mehmet Emin , AYGÜN Hilmi
Published: September 2021

Bu çalışmada, Karabük-Zonguldak parkurundaki tek hatlı demiryolunda yolcu treni işletmeciliği incelenmiştir. Bu demiryolu hattında bekleme ve gecikmelerle ilgili sorunlara çözüm aranarak, en optimum tarife bulunmaya çalışılmıştır. Araştırmada 10 istasyonlu ve günlük çift yönlü 8 adet yolcu treninin çalıştığı Karabük-Zonguldak hattında, çalıştırılabilecek “günlük tren kapasitesi” incelenmiş, parçacık sürüsü optimizasyonu (PSO) tabanlı programlama modeli uygulanmıştır. Bu modelde Karabük-Zonguldak arasındaki 116,6 km’lik parkur ele alınmıştır. Önerilen yöntemin benzetim çalışması MATLAB programı ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Modelleme sonucunda, sağlanan verilere göre, tren hareket saatleri yeniden düzenlenerek, gecikmelerde % 65 oranında iyileşme sağlandığı benzetim ile ortaya konulmuştur.
Avances en el desarrollo de nuevos herbicidas biológicos a partir de extractos vegetales fitotóxicos aplicados in vitro
Authors: Cruz-Ortiz Luis , Flores-Méndez Mariana
Published: September 2021

La agricultura es afectada por la aparición de malezas que reducen la producción de los cultivos, estas se controlan con químicos agrícolas que desequilibran el ambiente y la salud humana. Recientemente se ha reportado el empleo de extractos biológicos de plantas, donde se demuestra que poseen propiedades bioactivas fitotóxicas que alteran la estructura celular, por lo que  surge la necesidad de extraer los compuestos bioactivos de estos, con el fin de producir y aplicar bioherbicidas potentes, que inhiban la propagación de malezas que perturban los sembradíos. El objetivo de esta revisión bibliográfica fue reportar los avances en el desarrollo de nuevos herbicidas biológicos, a partir de extractos vegetales fitotóxicos aplicados in vitro. La presente revisión describe los compuestos con capacidad fitotóxica en las plantas y su actividad biológica fitotóxica, como los polifenoles, taninos, alcaloides, quinonas, saponinas antagónicas y los glucósidos, por mencionar algunos, mediante los métodos experimentales más usados, que incluyen la extracción, la determinación y la cuantificación de los metabolitos. Además, se hace mención de las variables respuestas que se consideraron para evaluar el efecto de estas sustancias activas biológicas, donde se incluyen el porcentaje de inhibición de la germinación, el crecimiento y la longitud radical en plantas.
Hvilke forhold påvirker lærerspesialistens arbeid? En nærstudie av 25 logger skrevet av lærere på videreutdanning for lærerspesialister i norsk
Authors: Lønnum Marthe , Kringstad Trude
Published: September 2021

Lærerspesialist er en ny rolle i skolen. Denne artikkelen tar utgangspunkt i 25 refleksjonslogger skrevet av lærere som tar videreutdanningsemnet Lærerspesialist i norsk med vekt på lesing og skriving 1.–10. trinn ved Universitetet i Stavanger (UiS). Gjennom systematisk å studere hva studentene rapporterer som forhold som kan sies å fremme og hvilke faktorer som kan hemme utøvelsen av funksjonen som lærerspesialist i skolen, setter artikkelen fokus på hvilke forutsetninger som bør være til stede for at lærerspesialistene skal kunne fungere som bidragsytere i skolebasert kompetanseutvikling. Denne kunnskapen vil være relevant for mange aktører i skolesystemet, som lærerspesialistene selv, lærerspesialistenes kollegaer, skoleledere, skoleeiere samt lærere og forskere i universitets- og høgskolesektoren.
What conditions affect the work of the teacher specialist? A study of 25 logs written by in-service students at the teacher specialist training in Language Arts
The role of the teacher specialist is new to the Norwegian school system. This article draws on 25 reflection logs written by teacher students enrolled in the Norwegian language study program that focuses on reading and writing for teacher specialists at the University of Stavanger (UiS). By systematically studying what the students highlight as factors that potentially promote and inhibit the performance of the role of teacher specialist in school, the article focuses on the prerequisites necessary to enable the teacher specialists to act as contributors in school-based competence development. This knowledge will be relevantto many actors in the school system, such as the teacher leaders themselves, the teacher leaders’ colleagues, principals, local school authorities as well as teachers and researchers in the university and college sector.
Incorporating CEFR bands and ICT-competences in grammar syllabuses of English Language Education Study Program in Indonesia
Authors: Sulistyaningrum Siti Drivoka , Purnawati Purnawati
Published: September 2021

The incorporation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into the educational field has been widely implemented as 21st century skill. Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is one of the global standard languages required for global standard. However, in Indonesian context, there is lack of syllabuses incorporating CEFR bands and ICT-competences. This study explores the CEFR levels and ICT-competences incorporating in grammar syllabuses of ELESP in Indonesian universities. A content analysis method is used. Fifteen syllabuses of the grammar of the ELESP from 8 universities in Indonesia were selected purposely based on the proportion of private and public universities. All the grammar syllabuses are identified as Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced grammar. The findings revealed that: basic grammar, the CEFR level was A1-B1, intermediate grammar, the CEFR level was A1-B2, while the advanced grammar showed that CEFR level was B2-C2. In addition, the ICT-competences in entire syllabuses showed insufficient utilization which dominated Knowledge Acquisition and less intended for Knowledge Deepening and Knowledge Creation. These findings contribute as a reference to adjust and re-align the existing syllabuses to be in line with the CEFR bands framework and enriched with ICT-competencies.