bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chaim Potok and the Holocaust
Authors: Sidky Sean
Published: February 2021

This article investigates the scholarly treatment of the place and function of Holocaust in Chaim Potok’s novels The Chosen and The Promise. Tracing a reception history of Potok’s work in the academy, this article argues that previous studies of Potok’s novels have relegated the Holocaust to a background historical event that informs the internal religious and ideological conflicts of the novels. Reading the two novels together, this article argues that the novels, through the characters of Danny and Reuven, explore a variety of ideological positions that each demand particular action in response to the Holocaust. The Promise, I argue, sees Reuven discern another possibility, one that engages with the ostensible incomprehensibility of the Holocaust as a generative force for sympathetic engagement with irreconcilable ideological positions, offering a new model for Jewish continuity in his post-Holocaust United States.
Acoustic evidence for affix classes: A case study of Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Gilbert Madeline
Published: February 2021

In languages that assign stress differently according to morphological structure, affixes often fall into different categories. In Brazilian Portuguese, normal suffix words have one stress (Base: [kaˈfɛ] ‘coffee’; suffixed: [kafe-ˈtejɾa] ‘coffee pot’). Special suffix words are claimed to have two stresses, one of which falls in the same location as in the independent base ([ka ˌfɛ-ˈzĩɲu] ‘coffee-DIM’). The special suffixes include diminutive -(z)inho, superlative -íssimo, and adverbial -mente. This paper reports on a production study showing that stress maintenance on the base of special suffix words is acoustically present through longer duration and marginally higher intensity, and through maintenance of vowel height for mid vowels. Phonologically, the special suffixes are often analyzed as attaching to an independent prosodic word base (e.g.Collischonn 1994; Moreno 1997; Vigário 2003; Guzzo 2018). I cast the analysis in Distributed Morphology (Halle & Marantz 1993): the phonological differences between special and normal suffixes are due to morphosyntactic differences. Under this analysis, differences between special and normal suffixes are principled rather than arbitrary. Morphological and prosodic structure are both necessary, and prosodic structure mediates between morphology and phonological processes.
Descentrando a Europa: contribuições da teoria pós-colonial e do giro decolonial ao conhecimento situado
Authors: Restrepo Eduardo , De Araújo Juliana Maria
Published: February 2021

Em contraste às concepções de conhecimento que o têm como algo universal e não localizado, este artigo percorre diferentes autores e posições teóricas que discutiram a situacionalidade do conhecimento. Um dos efeitos de assumir essa situacionalidade é explorado neste artigo a partir da noção de Provincialização da Europa (sugerida por Chakrabarty) como deslocamento e descentralização epistêmica e política da Europa hiper-real. Considerando que esse deslocamento e essa descentralização não significam uma apologia ao relativismo ou uma fetichização de uma noção de alteridade como exterioridade ou pureza, na parte final do artigo discute-se a noção de pensamento próprio.
“Should I stay or should I go?” Indicators of Dropping Out Thoughts of Doctoral Students in Computer Science.
Authors: Alfermann Dorothee , Holl Christopher , Reimann Swantje
Published: February 2021

Evidence in the literature indicates that doctoral candidates may experience increased levels of stress and worry about successfully completing their doctorate degrees. As a result, a significant number of doctoral candidates drop out. In our study with 424 doctoral students in computer science (113 women, 311 men), we ask about the frequency of dropout thoughts as an indicator of possible premature termination. By means of machine learning algorithms, we extract variables associated with higher or lower likelihood of dropout thoughts. In particular, satisfaction with advisor’s support, experiencing a crisis, professional self-efficacy, choice of advisor, and perceived meaningfulness of additional work tasks proved to be of central importance. Based on these results, we suggest taking steps to improve professional and social support for doctoral students. Recommendations include implementing more intensive supervision in the early stages of the doctorate, improve the match between doctoral candidates’ expectations and the requirements of the respective institute, monitor progress during the doctorate (e.g., with the help of an advisor agreement), and increase the qualifications of advisors to include leadership and communication skills.
The usefulness of quality indicators of preanalitical phase in medical labs, according to the Quality standards requirements, ISO 15189:2013 and WG-LEPS recommendation, Jan 2017
Authors: Pietruczuk Mirosława , Kraszula Łukasz , Jasińska Anna , Kuna Piotr , Eusebio Makandjou-Ola
Published: February 2021

This paper presents the usefulness of pre-analytical process in medical diagnostic laboratories, recommended by WG-LEPS, according to departmental requirements and ISO 15189, with regard to clinical hospital laboratory. It is known that the pre-analytical process generates over 70% of all laboratory errors. The tested materials are laboratory test referrals data for a period of one year (2017), mainly from the Laboratory Information Management System. The study includes the mean annual pre-laboratory error rates. The results showed low error rates in the areas related to the laboratory testing. The highest error rates were found in the field relevant to clinical information and data that are not related the laboratory processing.
Cortisol – inspection in the physiology and stress
Authors: Musiała Nikola , Hołyńska-Iwan Iga , Olszewska-Słonina Dorota
Published: February 2021

Cortisol, also called “the” stress hormone is a glucocorticoid secreted by the adrenal cortex. This hormone plays a significant role in
maintaining homeostasis, according to the body’s total stress. Cortisol interferes with many organs, affects glucose and fatty acids metabolism
and neurotransmitter secretion. Predominantly, cortisol influences the carbohydrate metabolism, stimulating gluconeogenesis
in the liver and inhibiting glucose utilization in peripheral tissues. As it is an element “fight or flight” it also stimulates central nervous
system and enhances blood flow. To some extent cortisol influences also the renal handling of electrolytes, namely: increasing sodium
resorption, and renal excretion of potassium, calcium and phosphates. Through its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive character
this glucocorticoid modulates the immune system functioning. Cortisol has a circadian rhythm following ACTH (adrenocorticotropic
hormone) secretion. Increased cortisol levels are observed physiologically during stress and pathologically in Cushing’s syndrome.
Chronic hypercortisolism is harmful or the body, and its effects present an extremely wide spectrum, including insulin resistance, obesity,
insomnia and even depression. Thus, laboratory diagnosis of cortisol level is important for the diagnosis, monitoring and evaluate the
effectiveness of hypercortisolism treatment.
Prognostic value of Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR)
and IL-6 in patients with small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wójcik Ewa , Stasik Zofia , Rychlik Urszula , Tarapacz Jadwiga , Kanty Kulpa Jan , Sas-Korczynska Beata
Published: February 2021

Background: In order to identify patients with the most favourable prognosis, the effect of baseline level of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and
platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) on survival was analysed in patients with small cell lung cancer.
Material and Methods: 159 patients with small cell lung cancer were enrolled. Full blood count enabling computing the PLR, as well as
NSE, ProGRP and IL-6 levels were done in all participants.
Results: We demonstrated significant effect of disease stage, performance status, sex, initial NSE, ProGRP and IL-6 levels as well as PLR
on survival of patients with SCLC. In subgroups with normal initial levels of ProGRP (below 50.36 ng/L) and NSE (below 20.95 μg/L), the
IL-6 level above 6.0 ng/L worsens the prognosis by 28% and 29%, respectively. In a subgroup with elevated initial ProGRP, the difference
in survival between patients with normal vs elevated IL-6 level at baseline was 25%, whereas in a subgroup with elevated initial NSE it
was 14%. The between-subgroup differences in PLR were less considerable. There was a significant effect of PLR on patient survival in
a subgroup with normal initial NSE level and elevated initial ProGRP level.
Conclusion: In subgroups of SCLC patients identified based on initial tumour marker levels, IL-6 level can be a source of reliable prognostic
information, whereas the effect of PLR is less marked. Patients with normal tumour marker levels and IL-6 below 6 ng/L at baseline
have the most favourable prognosis.
Qproteome FFPE Tissue Kit is not suitable for protein analysis
using Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer
Authors: Janecka-Widła Anna , Adamczyk Agnieszka , Majchrzyk Kaja , Cichocka Anna , Niemiec Joanna
Published: February 2021

Introduction: The chip-based protein separation using Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer is a promising tool for proteomic analysis. However, it
has not been defined if the above-mentioned device is suitable for analysis of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) proteins extracts.
The aim of the study: Therefore we performed the analysis aimed at testing if extracts from FFPE tissues are suitable for proteins detection
using Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer.
Material and methods: FFPE tissues and cell cultures were used for experiments. Proteins were extracted from them using Qproteome
FFPE Tissue Kit and RIPA buffer, respectively. For protein analysis Bioanalyzer Instrument, Western Blot and immunohistochemistry
(IHC) were applied.
Results: In FFPE extracts, using Bioanalyzer we failed to detect β-actin. However, Western Blot analysis proved β-actin presence in them.
One of possible explanations of this phenomenon might be lack of antibody-antigen interaction during immunoprecipitation preceding
Bioanalyzer analysis. We suspected that, Extraction Buffer (from Qproteome FFPE Tissue Kit) or β-mercaptoethanol (both present
in FFPE protein extracts) might be responsible for the above-mentioned blockade. Therefore, we applied IHC with detection of CD34
because, CD34 staining is robust against small methodological variations and this marker is always present in tumor tissue sections.
Anti-CD34 antibody was diluted in Tris saline buffer with Extraction Buffer, β-mercaptoethanol or without. We did not observe CD34
immunopositivity only in the presence of Extraction Buffer.
Conclusion: Qproteome FFPE Tissue Kit is not suitable for protein analysis using Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer, because the Extraction Buffer
from the kit prevents an interaction between antibody and antigen during immunoprecipitation procedure.
Sparganosis as an accidental human parasitic disease
Authors: Czyżewska Jolanta , Matowicka-Karna Joanna
Published: February 2021

Sparganosis is an endemic or potentially endemic parasitic disease which has already been noted in 48 countries, most cases occur in
Asian countries (South Korea, Japan, Thailand and China). Sparganosis can manifest through a variety nonspecific symptoms, such as
discomfort, local pain, palpable bumps, headaches. The infection may be caused by ingestion of water or raw meat of frogs or snakes
and skin wraps of the above mentioned animals.
Serum level of sVAP-1 in relation to the severity of inflammation, predictive marker of prognosis in patients scheduled for colorectal surgery
Authors: Stasik Zofia , Rychlik Urszula , Tarapacz Jadwiga , Wójcik Ewa , M. Wysocki Wojciech
Published: February 2021

Background: VAP-1, like other adhesion molecules, can exist as soluble circulating form (sVAP-1). Elevated serum sVAP-1 levels were observed in both type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients, in subjects with primary biliary cirrhosis and alcoholic liver cirrhosis, while patients with rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease did not exhibit significant alterations in sVAP-1 level when compared to healthy individuals. Only scarce and controversial information is available on the serum sVAP-1 levels in cases of malignant neoplasms. The purpose of our study was to assess the relationship between the level of soluble vascular adhesion protein 1 and the concentration of inflammatory markers, as well as to assess the predictive value of sVAP-1 in patients with colorectal cancer scheduled for surgery. Methods: Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test were performed to assess the correlation between sVAP-1 levels and the clinical outcomes on disease-free survival (DFS). Results: Compared to healthy individuals, patients suffering from colorectal cancer, expressed a significantly lower levels of sVAP-1 (p < 0.000002) and significantly higher concentrations of CEA (p = 0.003), IL-6 (p = 0.0001), CRP (p = 0.0001), AAG (p = 0.0001), and haptoglobin (p = 0.0001) in the serum. In the studied group of patients, a significant negative correlation between the serum levels of sVAP-1 vs. CRP (r = – 0.195; p = 0.031), sVAP-1 vs. AAG (r = – 0.234; p = 0.009), sVAP-1 vs. HAP (r = – 0.226; p = 0.012) were found. 3-year DFS of the patients with pretreatment levels of CEA ≥ 5 μg/L was significantly lower than the patients with pretreatment levels of CEA < 5 μg/L (47.4% vs. 82.9%, p = 0.00005). 3-year DFS of patients with pretreatment concentrations of sVAP-1≤ 185 μg/L was significantly lower than the patients with pretreatment concentrations of sVAP-1 > 185 μg/L (59.4% vs. 77.4%, p = 0.0378). Conclusions: In patients scheduled for colorectal cancer surgery, serum concentrations of sVAP-1 are related to the tumour stage and the severity of acute phase reaction. Increased CEA concentrations or decreased sVAP-1 levels before surgery is associated with shorter time to disease progression following resection of colorectal cancer.
IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 in cancer patients
Authors: Stasik Zofia
Published: February 2021

Growth factors called somatomedins have been isolated from human plasma and described in the seventies of the last centry. Insulin-like growth factors and their binding proteins are synthesized mainly in the liver, this process is regulated by the growth hormone.
Insulin-like effects of IGF-1 are primarily stimulating the uptake of glucose by adipocytes and muscle cells. Moreover, IGF-1 stimulates
cell division, plays a significant role in the processes of differentiation, maturation, repair of damaged DNA and apoptosis.
Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins by binding IGF-1 modulate its biological activity, counteract the potentially carcinogenic
activity of unbound IGF-1. Furthermore, IGFBPs, especially IGFBP-3, have independent effects on cell growth, for example, IGFPB-3 has
proapoptotic activities. Elevated level of IGF-1 with simultaneously reduced concentration of its binding protein are considered risk
factors for the development of a number of diseases, including neoplastic diseases. High serum concentrations of IGF-1 and low levels
of IGFBP-3 are associated with increased risks of lung, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers.
Prognostic value of red cell volume distribution width in patients with stage 5 chronic kidney disease treated with maintenance dialysis
Authors: Chmiel Elżbieta , Kuśnierz-Cabala Beata , Gala-Błądzińska Agnieszka , Dumnicka Paulina , Mazur-Laskowska Małgorzata , Kuźniewsk Marek , Kucharz Jakub , Maziarz Barbara , Solnica Bogdan
Published: February 2021

Introduction: In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the 5th stage, nearly 50% of deaths are related to cardiovascular complications. In various populations, the red cell volume distribution width (RDW-CV), index of anisocytosis was shown to be a significant predictor of mortality. Aim of the study was to evaluate the value of RDW-CV with reference to parameters used in monitoring patients treated with chronic hemodialysis, including laboratory markers useful in diagnosis of anemia. Material and Methods: The study group consisted of 79 patients (29 women and 50 men) in middle age 61 ± 13 years, treated with hemodialysis in the Department of Clinical Nephrology, Krakow, Poland due to stage 5 CKD. The average time of renal replacement therapy was 7.41 ± 6.5 years. Eleven patients died within a year from the start of the study The results showed a statistically significant differences of RDW-CV among hemodialyzed patients depending on the degree of anemia. The highest values of RDW-CV occurred in patients who have died. A cut-off point of RDW-CV = 14.8% allows prediction of death within 1 year from laboratory measurements with diagnostic sensitivity of 73% and diagnostic specificity of 75% (AUC 0.799; odds ratio = 3.027). Conclusions: Determination of RDW-CV is a simple and easily available marker obtained during routine blood counts assessment. Analysis of changes over time carried out in CKD patients treated with hemodialysis can serve as a prognostic indicator correlated with mortality.
Occult blood fecal tests for self-control and point of care testing
Authors: Charchut Aleksandra , Wójcik Magdalena , K. Kościelniak Barbara , J. Tomasik Przemysław
Published: February 2021

Fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) is a non-invasive and easy-to-carry, self-performed assay. It is often conducted in the diagnosis of various gastrointestinal diseases, especially as a screening test for colorectal cancer. This test is aimed at detecting blood which is not visible macroscopically in a stool sample. The purpose of this paper is to discuss various types of FOB tests: chemical, immunochroma- tographic and DNA tests. Despite the similarity in their performance, these tests use different methods and thus differ in their ability to detect blood from different parts of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, the interfering factors in the various assays and the proper preparation of the patient before the test are discussed in detail. The knowledge of the differences between these tests will allow to correct performance and interpretation of the results obtained with each tests.
Therapeutic monitoring of methotrexate in chemotherapy
Authors: Szpak Ewelina , Lewandowski Krzysztof , Kowalski Robert , Bogomas-Woźnicka Barbara , Irga-Jaworska Ninela
Published: February 2021

Methotrexate is a cytostatic drug, folic acid antagonist, used in chemotherapy and immunosuppression in adults and in children. Its use in high doses is an absolute indication for therapeutic drug monitoring. Methotrexate is a highly toxic drug and requires dosage of specific antidote, calcium folinate. This rescue therapy helps to prevent methotrexate toxic effects and bone marrow suppression. Monitoring methotrexate concentration also helps to diagnose patients with decreased MTX elimination rate, who would benefit from glucarpidase treatment, an enzyme which degrades methotrexate molecules or theophylline, which is neuroprotective and increases renal elimination. Based on methotrexate serum concentration also time of forced diuresis and urine alkalinization is appointed in order to prevent acute nephrotoxicity. Of great importance is the fact that delayed elimination may be result of drug-drug interaction, part of which may be prevented. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the role of therapeutic drug monitoring in the prevention of methotrexate toxic effects.
CTC – Proposta de uma arquitetura para Testbed Universitária
Authors: Tavares Thales Nicolai , Rodrigues Alexandre Silva , Da Silva Bolivar Menezes
Published: February 2021

A necessidade de realização de pesquisas de computação em larga escala vem estimulando a criação de redes de experimentação. Ao mesmo tempo, a virtualização de recursos computacionais através das clouds vem se demonstrando uma ferramenta muito atraente para as instituições, por prover economia, bom desempenho e melhor disponibilidade dos serviços. Contudo, o acesso a ambas as tecnologias ainda não é bem difundido nas instituições públicas de ensino. Assim, este trabalho propõe uma arquitetura de computação que integra cloud computing e testbeds dentro das universidades, a Campus Test Cloud.
Combinando Técnicas de Mineração de Dados para Melhorar o Processo de Detecção Automática de Arritmia Cardíaca
Authors: Gomes Christian , Rocha Leonardo
Published: February 2021

Algoritmos de Classificação Automática são ferramentas promissoras no auxílio de diagnósticos de Arritmia Cardíaca (AC), entretanto sofrem com dois problemas: (1) muitos atributos numéricos gerados na decomposição de um Eletrocardiograma (ECG); e (2) o número de pacientes com ACs é muito menor do que aqueles tidos como normais (bases desbalanceadas). Nesse trabalho, combinamos técnicas de mineração de dados (i.e. clustering, feature selection e oversampling) para criar modelos de classificação mais eficazes. Em nossas avaliações, utilizando uma coleção da UCI, melhoramos significativamente a eficácia do algoritmo Random Forest, alcançando uma acurácia de 88%, valor superior ao melhor já reportado na literatura.
FAiR: Framework de Avaliação e Caracterização em Sistemas de Recomendação
Authors: Carvalho Diego , Silva Nícollas , Rocha Leonardo
Published: February 2021

Sistemas de Recomendação (SsR) tornaram-se essenciais em e-commerces. Estratégias de SsR vêm sendo propostas para auxiliar usuários na tomada de decisão. O processo de avaliação de SsR é hoje um grande ponto de divergência, uma vez que não existe um consenso de quais métricas são necessárias para se consolidar um novo SR. Nesse trabalho, realizamos um amplo estudo dessas métricas organizando-as em três grupos: Effectiveness-based, Complementary Dimensions of Quality e Domain Profiling. Consolidamos um framework denominado FAiR, capaz de auxiliar pesquisadores na avaliação de SsR frente a essas métricas, além de identificar as características das coleções de dados que possam intrinsecamente influenciar no desempenho deles.
pdpk - Uma definição de pacote de software para o ambiente Pure Data
Authors: Oliveira Lucas Nascimento , Schiavoni Flávio Luiz
Published: February 2021

Este artigo apresenta uma ferramenta de gestão de atualizações para um ambiente de programação musical chamado Pure Date. A definição do sistema de gerenciamento inclui também a definição de pacote, um conjunto para distribuir novos plugins, e um repositório mínimo para armazenar os plugins. Neste artigo apresentamos as decisões de projeto para criar a ferramenta, tal como o nome padrão, a extensão do pacote, a estrutura, o descritor e afins. Apesar do fato de este artigo apresentar decisões de projeto a cerca do ambiente de desenvolvimento Pure Data, ele pode ser também usado para criar um ferramenta semelhante para qualquer outro software que aceite extensões.
Dispositivo de Automação Residencial Usando Princípios de Sistemas Distribuídos.
Authors: Sousa Costa John Lennon
Published: February 2021

O dispositivo proposto neste artigo é desenvolvido usando a plataforma de prototipagem eletrônica Arduino, é apresentado também os componentes e suas relações necessárias para o funcionamento, em seguida, é desenvolvido o algoritmo que usa princípios de sistemas distribuídos para controlar outros dispositivos conectados à rede de computadores da residência. Com a apresentação da parte física, da montagem dos componentes e o algoritmo, o dispositivo mostrou-se simples de instalar e operar, pois o usuário não precisa modificar a fiação elétrica já existente na residência, o dispositivo usa a rede de computadores já existente e o usuário controla todos os dispositivos na residência através de um só dispositivo.
The Effect of Laser Scanning Speed on Microstructure and Performance of Cr3C2-NiCr Cermet Fabricated by in-situ Laser Cladding
Authors: LOU Deyuan , YANG Shaokun , MEI Sheng , LIU Qing , CHENG Jian , YANG Qibiao , LIU Dun , HE Chunlin
Published: February 2021

To explore the effect of laser scanning speed on the microstructure and performance of Cr3C2-NiCr cermet layers fabricated by in-situ laser cladding, Cr3C2-NiCr cermet layers were laser cladded from Ni/Cr/Graphite (25:65:10 wt.%) elemental powder mixtures. The microstructures of the laser cladded cermet layers and the formation mechanism were investigated. In addition, the effect of laser scanning speed on the microstructure, friction and corrosion performance of the Cr3C2-NiCr cermet layers was studied. The results indicated that the in-situ laser cladded Cr3C2-NiCr cermet layers were composed of NiCr binder and Cr3C2. The laser scanning speed had a significant influence on the carbide content, composition and size. Furthermore, it affected the in-situ laser cladded cermet layer’s hardness and wear resistance. The corrosion resistance of the in-situ laser cladded cermet layer was superior to that of laser cladded nickel-based alloy and was improved with decreasing laser scanning speed.
Design Techniques in Rock and Soil Engineering
Authors: Ur Rehman Zahid , Hussain Sajjad , Mohammad Noor , Gul Akhtar , Nawaz Bushra
Published: February 2021

At the initial stage of tunnel design, the tunnel stability can be assessed by different design techniques which are broadly classified into three categories i.e. Mathematical Analysis, Empirical Methods and Numerical Analysis. Mathematical methods or closed form solutions are more precise methods; however, its use is limited to simple geometries and almost impossible for complex geometries due to complex and tedious calculations involved. In practice, Empirical and Numerical Methods are usually used for stability analysis of tunnels. It should be noted that it is not the replacement of final design. Empirical design methods use information about the structural geology and other rock mass properties as input that can be easily obtained at the initial stage of a project. Numerical Methods commonly require mechanical properties, especially strength and deformation of rocks. Numerical methods are also considered as precise due to provision of allowance for variable inputs and geometry and having ability for sensitivity analysis. It is good practice to evaluate the stability of tunnels using at least two Empirical methods and validated through Numerical methods.
AI Overview: Methods and Structures
Authors: Dahlquist Erik , Rahman Moksadur , Skvaril Jan , Kyprianidis Konstantinos
Published: February 2021

This paper presents an overview of different methods used in what is normally called AI-methods today. The methods have been there for many years, but now have built a platform of methods complementing each other and forming a cluster of tools to be used to build “learning systems”. Physical and statistical models are used together and complemented with data cleaning and sorting. Models are then used for many different applications like output prediction, soft sensors, fault detection, diagnostics, decision support, classifications, process optimization, model predictive control, maintenance on demand and production planning. In this chapter we try to give an overview of a number of methods, and how they can be utilized in process industry applications.
Use of Renewable Energy in Buildings
Authors: Yüksek İzzet , Karadağ İlker
Published: February 2021

Owing to factors such as high living standards and digitalization, energy use is growing. However, the proportion of renewable energy sources is also rising in all energy consumption. Given this use of renewable energy, global warming and environmental issues are still rising. Fossil-based energy species are more polluting and resource-stricken than others. Studies on environmental pollution show that fossil-based energies are the most important pollutants. Fossil-based energy source is still the most consumed type of energy. Besides, the renewable energy sources’ consumption is very low. Therefore, it is important to increase the use of renewable energy, which creates cleaner and less emissions. Buildings should have the right clean energy use incentives. The needs such as heating, refrigeration, and lighting can be met by renewable energy. This research aims to explore and demonstrate how renewable energy can profit when fulfilling public building functions. Through using both conventional methods and creative methods together, the rate of use of renewable resources such as solar, wind, and geothermal resources in buildings can be increased. Therefore, major contributions to reducing the environmental issues caused by energy consumption can be made.
AI and Digital Platforms: The Technology [Part 2]
Authors: Larsson Örjan
Published: February 2021

This essay aims to describe the dynamics at play in the field of industrial AI, where the significant efficiency potential is driving demand. There are rapid technological development and increasing use of AI technology within the industry. Meanwhile, practical applications rather than technical development itself are creating value. The primary purpose of the article is to spread knowledge to industry. It is also intended to form the basis of the Swedish innovation program PiiAs ongoing work around open calls and targeted strategic innovation projects. The basic approach taken is to investigate both industry demand for AI and how the supply of technology is developing. AI takes in a broad and dynamic range of concepts, but it should also be considered in the even broader context of industrial digitalisation. It is not just a question of technology development, but equally about application knowledge. Realising the full potential of AI requires the ability for change within individual companies, but also to handle exchanges and interactions in changing ecosystems. The article has been divided into two sections: The Market, in which we assess the development and the consequences on the factory floor; and The Technology, which provides a more in-depth understanding of the structures of industrial IT and machine-learning technology. The article concludes with four practical examples from the industry.
Investigation and Management of Endocrinopathies in Thalassaemia Major
Authors: Al-Hourani Kinda , Lee Siew Hua Jessica , De Parijat
Published: February 2021

A combination of sub-therapeutic chelation and subsequent iron overload are regarded as the principal drivers of endocrine dysfunction in thalassaemia. The clinical presentation of endocrine complications and their timing of onset can be highly variable, in part due to population heterogeneity but also variation in chelation strategies. Endocrinopathies commonly associated with thalassaemia include: growth delay; pubertal delay; gonadal dysfunction; thyroid disorders; parathyroid and adrenal gland impairment; impaired bone metabolism; and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this chapter we summarise the main presentations of endocrine disorder in thalassaemia, summarising their epidemiology, clinical presentation and pathophysiologic basis. Furthermore, we review screening, monitoring and treatment strategies, with particular regard to the UK Thalassaemia Society’s 2016 National Standards.
Effects of Antibiotics on Impacted Aquatic Environment Microorganisms
Authors: Caroline Alexandre de Araújo Lívia , Maria da Silva Sivoneide , Artur de Queiroz Cavalcanti de Sá Rafael , Vitoria Araujo Lima Ana , Virginia Barbosa Amanda , dos Santos Silva Jaqueline , Massari Leite Kaleen , Jose do Nascimento Júnior Wellenilton , da Mota Silveira-Filho Vladimir , Lucena Mendes-Marques Carina , Henrique Da Silva Francisco , Betânia Melo de Oliveira Maria
Published: February 2021

Due to their mass production and intense consumption in human medicine, veterinary, and aquaculture, antibiotics have been widely detected in different ecosystems, leading to a growing worldwide concern. These and their byproducts are being continuously discarded in natural ecosystems via excretion of human and animal urine and feces, also domestic and hospital effluents. Residues of these drugs can persist in natural environments through bioaccumulation due to their difficult biodegradation. Also, they have a gradual deposition in sediments, aquatic surfaces, and groundwater. Studies have shown the presence of these drugs in aquatic environments, which can trigger severe changes in the composition and structure of the bacterial community, such as the ability to develop and propagate genes resistant to these pollutants. In this context, this review aims to address the effects of the antibiotics on microorganisms present in impacted aquatic environments.
Distributed Sources Optimal Sites and Sizes Search in Large Power Systems
Authors: Mosbah Mustafa , Djamel Mohammedi Redha , Arif Salem
Published: February 2021

The integration of renewable sources into the power system has now become an unavoidable necessity for these technical and economic advantages and for the protection of the environment. In this chapter, a study is given for the integration of the Distributed Source (DS) in an optimal way and this by looking for the best location (sites) and the best power to be injected (size). The optimization technique used is based on genetic algorithms under technical and safety constraints, with the aim of minimizing active network losses and maximizing voltage stability. These objective functions are handled as a single and multi-objective problem. This study is applied on the standard IEEE 30 bus network under the MATLAB code.
Enterococcus Present in Marine Ecosystems and Their Potential to Degrade Azo Dyes
Authors: María Manjarrez Paba Ganiveth , Baldiris Ávila Rosa
Published: February 2021

Azo dyes are frequently used at an industrial level to restore the color of raw materials once it has faded away, make an original color more vibrant or with the purpose of giving a material a different color that is considered more attractive. These processes however, have a negative impact on the environment, evidenced in colored wastewater that is subsequently dumped into water bodies, causing disruptions in the natural balance of ecosystems and deteriorating human health. Traditional strategies for the treatment of effluents contaminated with azo dyes are limited to physical and chemical processes that have a high energy and economic cost. For these reasons, current challenges are focused on the use of microorganisms capable of transforming dyes into less toxic products. This chapter will present a description of the main characteristics of azo dyes and the different methods used for their treatment, with special emphasis on the benefits associated with biological treatment. Likewise, it will provide relevant information about Enterococcus and show its potential to degrade azo dyes.
Climate Change: A Forced Choice Ethical Paradigm
Authors: Londyn Menkes Daniel
Published: February 2021

Notwithstanding the political debates in the media, climate change presents a unique set of ethical challenges faced by all the planet’s inhabitants. To understand the current challenges facing humanity, it is important to retrace the evolution of human society as this underlies the ethical foundations that internalize a group’s beliefs and norms. Humans have modified the environment on a global scale that is unsustainable that has resulted in climate change-a disease process with dire implications. Understanding the root causes of a disease process is the best means of devising a treatment plan. Climate change solutions must be syntonic with a biopsychosocial model that addresses culture and belief systems. The six main ethical theories-utilitarianism, egoism, deontology, virtue, divine command, and relativism all have their inherent flaws. Beauchamp and Childress concatenated these constructs into the four main bioethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-malfeasance, and justice. Of these, autonomy is least applicable to climate change as decisions made by a subgroup of one species will have an impact on all terrestrial lifeforms both present and future. Humanity must accept the reality of climate change and effect solutions based on these four principles. Failure to act will lead to catastrophic climate changes that may lead to the sixth mass extinction. Effective climate change solutions must embrace an integrative approach by supporting leaders who will embrace science and will advocate for universal human rights.
Individual Glycation Sites as Biomarkers of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Soboleva Alena , Vashurina Natalia , Frolov Andrej
Published: February 2021

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a widely spread metabolic disease, the initial stages of which are asymptomatic and have no clinically recognizable manifestation. At the molecular level, T2DM is manifested with essential non-enzymatic structural changes of intra- and extracellular proteins, mostly represented with oxidation and glycation of multiple residues. Protein glycation is one of the most universal markers of T2DM, and is recognized as an indirect, but adequate indicator of plasma glucose levels over prolonged periods of time. Unfortunately, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) – the universally accepted T2DM marker, is insensitive for short-term excursions of blood glucose, which are known to precede the onset of disease. Therefore, new generation biomarkers, giving access to the time dimension of Maillard reaction in blood, are desired. In this context, establishment of individual glycation sites of plasma proteins as new T2DM biomarkers might be a promising approach. Indeed, involvement of proteins with different half-life times in such analysis will make the time dimension of protein glycation in blood available and will allow early recognition of blood sugar fluctuations, occurring within few weeks or even days.
Doping Effect on Piezoelectric, Magnetic and Magnetoelectric Properties of Perovskite—Ferromagnetic Magnetoelectric Composites
Authors: A. Islam Rashed
Published: February 2021

This chapter explains the effect of compositional modification on the magnetoelectric coefficient in sintered piezoelectric – magnetostrictive composites. It was found that 15 at% doping of Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 [PZN] in Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 [PZT] enhances the piezoelectric and magnetoelectric properties of a PZT – 20 at% Ni0.8Zn0.2Fe2O4 [NZF] composite. The effect of doping on the ferromagnetic phase was also investigated. With increases in Zn concentration, it was found that the coercive field and Curie temperature of Ni(1-x)ZnxFe2O4 [NZF] decreases, while its saturation magnetization has a maxima at 30 mole% Zn. X-ray diffraction revealed that the lattice constant of NZF increases from 8.32 Å for 0 at% Zn to 8.39 Å for 50 at% Zn. The magnetoelectric coefficient was found to have a maxima of 144 mV/cm.Oe at 30 at% Zn. To understand better, the effect of 40% (by mole) Zn substitution on structural, piezoelectric, ferromagnetic and magnetoelectric properties of Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 - CoFe2O4 (PZT - CFO) sintered composite is also explained. X-ray diffraction of Co0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4 (CZF) showed the shift in almost all diffraction peaks to lower diffraction angle confirming the increase in lattice parameter in all three direction from 8.378 (for CFO) to 8.395 Å for (Co,Zn)Fe2O4 (CZF). SEM and TEM results showed defect structure (cleavage, twins, strain fields) in the CZF particle, which is a clear indication of misfit strain developed due to lattice expansion. Magnetic properties measured over temperature (5 K – 1000 K) showed increased magnetization but lower magnetic Curie temperature in PZT - CZF particle. Magnetoelectric coefficient measured as function of ferrite concentration showed an increase of more than 100% after doping the CFO phase with 40% Zn. This enhancement can be attributed to increase in the lattice strain, magnetic permeability and decrease in coercivity.
Aflatoxins in Mozambican Online Mainstream Press
Authors: Cambaza Edgar , Sineque Alberto , Mongo Edson , Gatambire Aline , Mateonane Edirsse , Chissumba Raquel
Published: February 2021

Aflatoxins gained increased recognition in Mozambique due to their negative impact on health, food security, and trade. Most contamination occurs in peanuts, maize, and their products. Nevertheless, there is little awareness, probably because the press and mass media do not disseminate enough information. This study analyzed the quantity and quality of information on aflatoxins in Mozambique’s leading online newspapers between 2009 and 2018. After analyzing articles using Atlas.ti, the information was synthesized and compared to scholarly sources. Mozambique requires more press and media coverage of aflatoxin research and development activities. Awareness campaigns should be reinforced, distribute information to multiple organizations, and use multiple means, including online mainstream press, spreading information to reach a broad range of people, given the diversity of cultures and villages’ remoteness. Organizations providing information, including universities, need to translate the highly technical information published in scientific journals to help reporters understand the research’s implications. Furthermore, there is a need to identify groups that do not receive messages from current campaigns and appropriate methods for reaching those populations.
Artificial Intelligence Assisted Innovation
Authors: Samid Gideon
Published: February 2021

Artificial Intelligence Assisted Innovation (AIAI) is a technology designed to improve innovation productivity by helping human innovators with all the support tasks that kindle the creative spark, and also with sorting out innovative propositions for their merit. Innovation activity is mushrooming and hence innovative history is an ever growing data accumulation. AIAI identified a universal innovation map, which is processed like the tape in a Turing machine, only here in the Innovation Turing machine, marking an innovation pathway. By mapping innovative history onto these maps, one enables the growing record of innovation history to guide current innovation as to merit, expected cost, estimated duration, etc. Using Monte Carlo and Discriminant Analysis, an Artificial Innovation Assistant runs a dialog with the human innovator with a net effect of accelerated innovation. Users of AIAI are expected to exhibit a commanding lead over innovators guided only by their creativity.
Analysis, an Anathema: Is That a Fervent Diatribe of Lean?
Authors: Jacob Sajit , Kothandaraman Krishnamurthy
Published: February 2021

Should there be an understanding that rigor in analysis must be out-of-bounds for Lean initiatives? Will this rigor not facilitate a benchmarking of Lean initiatives? Why not a Lean initiative cause-consequence assessment not performed for building future fault tolerance? The effectiveness of a company’s strategy is critical to its success or failure. Lean strategy seems to be claimed as a widely recognized factor for business success and competitive advantage. However, empirical evidences do not promote the idea that Lean has delivered results every time. Study results indicate that success or failure of lean initiatives strongly depends on how companies approach it and on whether company has created their own curated philosophy towards Lean. Then, success is not dependent alone on a strategy, but on how daily operations are aligned to strategy. This chapter aims to address the above questions and a greater number of questions that we experience on a day-to-day basis with regard to Lean applications in the real world. Chapter Learning Objectives: Understanding Lean, Lean failure modes, and Lean initiative precautions.
Riders, Rights and Collective Action
Authors: Köhler Holm-Detlev
Published: February 2021

The aim of this chapter is to develop a conceptual framework for analysing the collective actions and organisational practices of delivery and transportation gig-workers, building on Rosa Luxemburg’s colonisation concept and on the power resources theory employed in current trade union analysis. The empirical bases are recent surveys and studies on platform work, the analysis of websites and social media communities for the collective action of platform workers and conversations with platform activists in several European countries. The specific characteristics of platform workers’ collective actions and organisational practices are examined with a view to identifying their potential and the opportunities they afford in the light of different trade union power resources.
Un ámbito sin límite ni salvedad. La fenomenología como ciencia abierta y la recepción en Heidegger y Marion del "Principio de todos los principios"
Authors: Moreno-Marquez César
Published: February 2021

Este ensayo intenta pensar la renovada relevancia de la intuición en el husserliano Principio de todos los principios (Ideen I, 1913) como requisito inexcusable del compromiso de la Fenomenología. En este sentido, son muy ilustrativas las lecturas de Heidegger y Jean-Luc Marion. Heidegger, aunque en Das Ende der Philosophie (1966) critica el Principio, sin embargo, en Die Idee der Philosophie und das Weltanschauungsproblem (1919) había defendido el Principio como una prueba del vitalismo de la Fenomenología. Marion, por su parte, evoluciona hacia una postura cada vez más radical (desde Reducción y donación (1984-1989) a Étant donné (1997)) con respecto a la importancia concedida a la intuición sin concepto. La afirmación implícita en el Principio permite reinterpretar algunos recursos decisivos de la fenomenología husserliana de 1913, así como permite inferir algunas claves para una ética basada en valores extraídos de la apertura de la Fenomenología.This essay attempts to think the renewed relevance of Intuition in Husserl's Principle of all principles (Ideen I, 1913) as a inexcusable requirement of the Engagement of the Phenomenology. In this sense, are very illustrative the readings of Heidegger and Jean-Luc Marion. Heidegger, although in Das Ende der Philosophie (1966) criticizes the Principle, however, in Die Idee der Philosophie und das Weltanschauungsproblem (1919) he defended the Principle as a proof of vitalism of Phenomenology. Marion, meanwhile, evolves to an increasingly radical stance (from Réduction et donation (1984-1989) to Étant donné (1997)) regarding the importance given to intuition without concept. The implicit claim in Principle allows reinterpret some important resources of the Husserlian Phenomenology (1913), and also allows infer some keys for a Ethics based on values extracted from the openness of the Phenomenology.
Percepción y conceptos: McDowell y Husserl sobre los contenidos de la experiencia
Authors: Serrahima Carlota
Published: February 2021

En este artículo se presentan algunas consideraciones relativas al debate sobre si el contenido de la experiencia perceptiva es o no conceptual. En particular, se pretende formular una crítica general al proyecto conceptualista de John McDowell apelando a algunas de sus asunciones de fondo –asunciones relativas a los requisitos que toda teoría sobre la relación entre percepción y juicio ha de cumplir, y que en su caso le conducen a considerar necesaria la tesis de que los contenidos de la percepción son conceptuales. Se argumentará que la postura desarrollada por Husserl en Erfahrung und Urteil ofrece una alternativa en la cual se cumplen aquéllos requisitos sin necesidad de apelar a conceptos en el nivel de los contenidos perceptivos. Finalmente, se sugerirá que la perspectiva genética husserliana permite ofrecer un retrato de la experiencia perceptiva que, a diferencia del de McDowell, permite respetar ciertas intuiciones que parecen relevantes acerca de la misma.In this paper I present some considerations on the debate about whether the contents of perceptual experiences are conceptual or not. In particular, I intend to formulate a general critique to John McDowell’s conceptualist project appealing to some of its background assumptions –assumptions regarding the requirements that any theory about the relation between perception and judgment should meet, and which lead him to take as necessary the thesis that the contents of perception are conceptual. It will be argued that the stance expounded by Huserl in Erfahrung und Urteil offers an alternative in which those requirements are met without the need to appeal to concepts at the level of the contents of perception. Finally, I will suggest that the Husserlian genetic perspective, unlike McDowell’s stance, ends up offering a picture of perceptual experience that can accommodate certain intuitions about it that seem relevant.