bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decentralization as an Institutional System, Prospects and Retrospect: Case of Four Weredas of Tigrai
Authors: Fissha Sintayoh , Berhanu Meheret
Published: June 2018

Following the demise of the Derg regime in 1991, the most important reform agenda of Ethiopia was to restructure the country and its civil administration along ethnic lines, and to establish ethnicity as the defining principle of political, social and economic discourse. Consequently the country’s political map was redrawn along ethnic lines, which gave way to “Regional states”. The regional states secured administrative and legislative power within a federal framework. . Success stories of decentralization encouraged policy makers to launch fiscal decentralization which extended the regions’ planning and resource allocation powers to each district (wereda)level. This apparently enabled them to improve service expansion and development.Despite this general perception this study seeks to critically review the impacts of decentralization (both fiscal and administrative) on districts considering four weredas of Tigrai regional state (northern part of Ethiopia). To conduct this study both primary and secondary data sources was and analyzed using simple descriptive, and statistical method of analysis. Results obtained based on the three variables (measures effect of decentralization on community participation good governance, and minimizing revenue expenditure gap) reveals positive progress. Indeed, there are promising changes related to administrative matters and of community participation in designing and implementation of development plans. These changes also are enhanced individuals’ participation in productivity, which expedited poverty reduction as well, as indicated by the growing improvements in local livelihoods. However, the gains of decentralization on governance and minimizing revenue expenditure gap are far from satisfactory. As long as the real participation of locals and problems of local capacity remains at stake but is still suffered more from resource limitations. This study recommends some adjustments with the decentralization approach, and appropriate implementation modalities so as to solve the procedural and skill related problems, and to minimize misuse of resource in a way that assists to be more effectively.
Preparing a First Change Laboratory Session Linked to the Issue of Homework and Addressing Methodological Challenges
Authors: Deslandes Rollande , Barma Sylvie
Published: June 2018

The issue of homework has been generating debates not only in schools but also in scientific circles and the media. In response to the challenging questions regarding that issue, the Conseil supérieur de l’Éducation (2010) recommended a collective consideration of homework at the local level. In this study, we focus on the methodological challenges of the preparation, implementation and analysis of a first session of a Change Laboratory (CL) undertaken in a low SES elementary school. Building on the principle of double-stimulation and focusing on the expansive learning actions taken by 11 teachers, we identified the transformative actions expressed in their discourse. Findings revealed a predominance of expressions related to explicating and criticising. It was possible to make sense of the participants’ statements to prepare the next steps of the intervention.
“Watch the Screen”: Biofeedback Can Improve Mindfulness for Chronic Pain
Authors: Rosenthal Saul
Published: June 2018

Chronic pain has a significant impact on the quality of lives for millions of people. Because it is resistant to traditional medical intervention, the optimal approach to chronic pain management relies on a biopsychosocial understanding of health and treatment. To date, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been the treatment of choice. However, CBT's emphasis on active control can prove counterproductive because the cognitions, behaviors, and emotions related to pain are difficult to directly confront. More recently, CBT has begun to integrate mindfulness, shifting toward paradigms of accepting sensations rather than trying to change them. This is difficult for individuals with chronic pain, who frequently spend significant resources avoiding and trying to minimize sensations. Biofeedback can be a useful tool for shaping mindfulness because it allows a focus on an external signal that in fact reflects the internal process. Over time, individuals can learn to integrate mindfulness techniques in their daily life that minimize the influence of pain, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their lives.
Using the Master's Tools to Dismantle the Master's House:The FountainheadReadsDoctor Faustus
Authors: Gerard Allison
Published: June 2018

Largely by the use of allegory, Ayn Rand's novel The Fountainhead repurposes and reinterprets the religious morality of Christopher Marlowe's Doctor Faustus to espouse an Objectivist, rather than theist, view of salvation and damnation. The Faustian narrative no longer belongs to Faustus alone, but is read against itself in order to theorize that giving up one's ego and independence, rather than giving up one's membership to the societal collective, is the straightest road to perdition.
Émigrés on the October Revolution: The Suicide of Russia in the Novels of Ayn Rand and Mark Aldanov
Authors: Grigorovskaya Anastasiya Vasilievna
Published: June 2018

The events of the Russian Revolution, which took place one hundred years ago in October 1917, are reflected in Ayn Rand's first novel We the Living. This article shows Rand's relationship to the Russian Diaspora—though her name is not usually associated with Russian émigré authors. This article compares Rand's work with the novels of another Russian émigré writer—Mark Aldanov (Escape, Suicide)—which shows a common comprehension of the October Revolution in the works of both writers, with similar art images, interpretations of the reasons for the revolution, and an understanding of its harmful consequences for Russia.
Ayn Rand's Companions
Authors: Seddon Fred
Published: June 2018

This essay reviews a recent book in the Blackwell Companions to Philosophy series: A Companion to Ayn Rand, edited by Gregory Salmieri and the late Allan Gotthelf. The author expresses his discontent with the volume's exclusion of many contributors who are not affiliated with the Ayn Rand Institute. He is displeased, as well, by the lack of any essays of a critical nature, which is a hallmark of other Companion-type works. His review focuses on six (out of eighteen) key essays in this volume: (1) Gregory Salmieri on both values and epistemology; (2) John David Lewis and Salmieri's discussion of Rand's political and cultural commentary; (3) Allan Gotthelf on the morality of life; (4) Harry Binswanger on aesthetics; (5) Jason Rheins on the Objectivist metaphysics; and (6) James Lennox on Rand's view of the history of philosophy.
What Do We Need to Know?
Authors: Campbell Robert L.
Published: June 2018

How We Know is intended as a summary (and a modest extension) of Objectivist epistemology. Binswanger's treatment of a wide range of epistemological issues is examined. Because his theory of propositions is inadequate and his philosophy of mind is an extreme form of dualism, Binswanger has added little to previous efforts by “official” Objectivists. As a work of epistemology in the broad sense, Binswanger's effort is fatally impaired. It is undone by his bifurcation between consciousness and the physics of the brain, which, if accepted, would largely deprive psychology and even computer science of their subject matter.
How to Manage the Cop21 Policies?
Authors: Lane Jan-Erik
Published: June 2018

While the climate and earth scientists now launch the new theory of abrupt climate change with overwhelming evidence about CO2s and the positive feedback lopes from Arctic meltdown and methane emissions from permafrost, the UNFCCC does not speed up the implementation of its promised policies. The social sciences have yet to come up with management plans for global decarbonisation. Resilience is no longer an option when the tipping point is muck closer in time than earlier believed. The key nations are not taking steps towards the saving of mankind from run away global warming.
Has Fiscal Rules changed the Fiscal Behaviour of Union Government in India? Anatomy of Budgetary Forecast Errors in India
Authors: Chakraborty Lekha S , Sinha Darshy
Published: June 2018

We analyse the fiscal marksmanship of the macro-fiscal variables of Union Government ex-ante and ex-post to the formulation of fiscal rules in India. The fiscal marksmanship is the accuracy of budgetary forecasting. The fiscal rules have been legally mandated in India in the form of fiscal responsibility and budget management Act (FRBM Act) in 2003, with a criteria of fiscal-deficit to GDP threshold ratio of 3 per cent and gradual phasing out of revenue deficit. Using Theil’s inequality coefficient (U) based on the mean square prediction error, the paper estimates the magnitude of errors in the budgetary forecasts in India during the period ex-ante and ex-post to fiscal rules, and also decomposed the errors into biasedness, unequal variation and random components. The decomposition of errors is to analyze the source of error in both the regimes. Our results found that in both regimes, the proportion of error due to random variation has been significantly higher, which is beyond the control of the forecaster. In other words, the error due to bias of the policy maker in preparing the Union Budget has been negligible in the period ex-ante and ex-post to fiscal responsibility and budget management (FRBM) Act in India. The estimates also showed that the errors due to policy maker’s bias has comparatively reduced in the regime ex-post to fiscal rules. The analysis related to efficiency of forecasts showed that no significant improvement in forecasts over time. This result has significant policy implications especially in the context of repeal of 2003 FRBM Act in India and the Union Government has announced clauses for a ‘New FRBM Act’ in India in the Finance Bill 2018.
Building Bridges and Growing Wings through Doctoral Education: A Literary Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rominger Ryan Austin
Published: June 2018

Doctoral education evolves amidst changing international social and educational pressures. New programs emerge, while current programs re-evaluate educational processes. This literary meta-analysis reviewed national and international literature in order to understand what issues are currently debated within higher education. Results indicate three main categories: Connection with Non-Doctoral Education Groups; Re-visioning the Doctoral Education Process; and Aligning Dissertation/Capstone Projects with Type of Doctoral Program. Within the categories, eleven themes also emerged. Implications of the study include emphasis for new and revised doctoral programs to remain aware of the increasing influence of industry, the main employment location for most doctoral graduates.
Reverse-reamed Intercalary Allograft: A Surgical Technique
Authors: Wilke Benjamin , Cooper Anna , Gibbs C. Parker , Spiguel Andre
Published: June 2018

Allograft reconstruction of large segmental intercalary bone defects after tumor resection is a well-accepted surgical technique. Although results generally have been satisfactory, nonunion at the allograft-host bone junction site remains a notable concern. Various reports have described attempts to enhance junctional healing with a variety of complex osteotomies, often complicating an already complex procedure. The use of an innovative reverse reaming technique can decrease the level of intraoperative difficulty mating the allograft-host junction and theoretically may improve junctional healing by enhancing stability and increasing the contact surface area.
Escherichia Coli Transfer to Food by Fruit Flies during Short Time Exposure
Authors: Buyukyavuz Ahmet , Benson Eric , Song Jinbo , Ellis Brittany , Han Inyee , Dawson Paul
Published: June 2018

Two separate experiments were conducted to determine the transfer of E. coli by fruit flies during short term exposure to apple slices and bologna. Short time exposure (1, 5 and 15 min) of flies to inoculated apple slices were tested in the first experiment to determine the transfer of E. coli to flies. No difference (P≤0.05) in the number of bacteria transferred to flies were found due to these exposure times. In the second experiment the transfer of E. coli from inoculated apple or bologna slices (5 min exposure) to un-inoculated slices (1, 5 and 15 min exposure) were tested. More bacteria were transferred to bologna at 1 and 5 min compared to apple while the number transferred did not differ at 15 min exposure. The percentage of E. coli transferred from inoculated food to flies was low (<0.5%) while the percentage transferred from flies to un-inoculated food was relatively high (>50%). This study found that flies can pick up and transfer bacteria to food in short exposure times.
Autogenous transplants of adrenal fragments in an animal model.
Authors: Dworzyńska Agnieszka , Paduszyńska Katarzyna , Pomorski Lech
Published: June 2018

Introduction Adrenal insufficiency is a typical complication after surgical treatment of adrenal tumors, especially after the removal of both adrenal glands. Human beings are not able to survive without adrenal glands and without proper hormonal substitution. Autotransplantation of a fragment of the adrenal gland may prevent this complication. This can be done by transplanting the entire adrenal glands or its fragment, such as the adrenal cortex cells. In the case of adrenal tumors, the entire adrenal gland can not be transplanted. However, it is possible to transplant cells from the tumor-free part. Succesful adrenal autografts may result in a new treatment of adrenal insufficiency. Materials and Methods: Autograft transplantation was performed on 3 groups of Sprague Dawley rats. In the first group, physiological corticosterone concentrations were determined. These animals were not operated. In the second group, both adrenal glands were removed. Corticosterone concentrations were determined after bilateral adrenalectomy. The third group was divided into two parts. In the first subgroup, bilateral adrenalectomy was performed simultaneosly with adrenal transplant into the omentum. In the second subgroup, right adrenalectomy was performed simultaneosly with and adrenal transplant into the omentum followed a month later by left adrenalectomy. During the experiment, corticosterone concentrations were measured at 4 time points. Results. The statistical difference between corticosterone concentrations in rats after two timed adrenalectomies and rats after bilateral adrenalectomy was statistically different, but these results were far from physiological concentrations.
Initial experience with endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty in Poland
Authors: Pyda Przemysław , Sowier Aleksander , Sowier Sebastian , Borucka Anna-Maria , Kapturzak Joanna , Białecki Jacek , Wójtowicz Stanisław
Published: June 2018

Introduction: Obesity is becoming one of the major public health problems. Bariatric procedures are considered the most effective methods of treating this condition but they are costly and entail a high risk of complications. Thus, there is a need to look for better bariatric treatment solutions. One of the newest, highly promising bariatric methods is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG), which is comparably effective to other bariatric procedures in terms of weight loss but at the same time it is much less invasive.
Materials and methods: Eight obese patients underwent ESG. Under general anaesthesia, an endoscope was inserted into the stomach, where a row of 4-5 running stitches was placed (from the pyloric part towards the GE junction). Each of the stitches was cinched tight, which resulted in gastric lumen reduction comparable to that achieved with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.
Results: The procedures were performed without any severe peri-operative complications. The only adverse event was a minor haemorrhage in one of the patients, which did not require any surgical intervention. After the surgery, the patients reported a substantial weight loss. Mean %TBWL was 8.6%, 15.4% and 19.6% at 1, 2 and 3 months, respectively.
Conclusions: Minimally invasive and highly effective in body weight reduction, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is a promising method of treating obesity. The procedure requires appropriate tools and equipment. The method guarantees gastric volume reduction comparable to that achieved with sleeve resection. The initial results confirm that the effectiveness of the surgery in terms of body weight loss is similar to that seen in other forms of bariatric treatment.
Discussion: Compared to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is substantially less invasive. Also, it requires shorter procedure time and shorter hospital stay. Data from other medical centres demonstrate somewhat lower dynamics of total body weight loss but these results need to be verified in a long-term follow-up.
A comprehensive review on Primary gall bladder tuberculosis
Authors: GUPTA AMIT , GUPTA ASHISH , AGRAWAL SAUMYA , ANJUM ROHIK , MALLIK DHIRAJ
Published: June 2018

Tuberculosis (TB) is a infectious disease that can involve any organ system of the body. Abdominal TB can be gastrointestinal, lymphnodal, visceral or perironeal. Gall bladder(GB) is rarely involved as a primary organ in abdominal TB. On extensive research the literature on gall bladder TB is limited to case reports. There has been no review on this rare abdominal pathology. The GB tuberculosis is a difficult diagnosis preoperatively. It is a rare differential among the more common gall bladder pathologies like cholelithiasis, or a gall bladder malignancy. Typical histopathology of the resected specimen helps establish this rare diagnosis. Subjecting every specimen to histopathological examination followed by medical treatment offers the chance of cure. Through this review the authors are trying to provide an insight into this entity.
The impact of the magnetization direction on the static and dynamic parameters of an electromagnetic linear actuator
Authors: Just Krzysztof , Piskur Paweł
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a simulation analysis of the impact of magnetization direction on the static and dynamic parameters of an electromagnetic linear actuator. The simulation analysis computations were completed for three different magnetization configurations of permanent magnets (i.e. axial, radial, and a Halbach array). The finite element method (FEM) was applied which provided a good representation of the properties of actual physical objects. The computations enabled an investigation into and an assessment of the impact of the runner magnetization method on the static and dynamic properties of the drive.
Keywords: modelling and simulation, electromagnetic actuator, finite element method, field analysis, Halbach array
Analysis of speech synthesis algorithms for the purposes of deployment in embedded device
Authors: Zacniewski Artur , Kleinszmidt Marcin
Published: June 2018

The article presents consecutive stages of speech synthesis and also the ways of dealing with particular fragments of a text. The results of performance measurement for the text content normalization algorithms are shown. These algorithms were developed for the Toucan Eye project – an embedded device with an artificial intelligence system able to help people with impaired sight. It was shown how essential is the choice and optimization of the applied algorithms for the implementation process in order to increase the end-user’s comfort.
Keywords: speech synthesis, assisting persons with impaired sight, Toucan Eye
Research of speed and accuracy of speech synthesis methods for the purposes of deployment in embedded device
Authors: Zacniewski Artur , Zdunek Radosław
Published: June 2018

In the article, the methods concerning speech synthesis were analysed, having in mind their usage in an embedded device. Research was carried out on the devices with mixed parameters, and the criteria were accuracy and speed of the given method. The research is a part of the Toucan Eye project – an embedded device with an artificial intelligence system able to help people with impaired sight. It was shown how important is optimization of the applied methods in the phase of an engineer project to ensure better quality of a working device and the end-user’s comfort.
Keywords: speech synthesis, assisting persons with impaired sight, Toucan Eye
Fatigue life of materials claded with the method of explosive welding
Authors: Kwiatkowski Grzegorz , Rozumek Dariusz
Published: June 2018

This paper describes the comparison of fatigue life on bending of two claded materials with the base material. The base material was the carbon steel P3335NH of the thickness of 10 mm and the clad materials was austenitic steels 254SMO and 316L. As a part of the work, ultrasonic testing of static tests such as tensile tests, shear tests, bending tests and impact tests were performed. The hardness distribution tests in the cross-section of the sample was subsequently carried out. Last tests were the cyclic bending tests at four different loads. Surveys show that the plates are connected to the entire surface with the exclusion of technological margins of approximately 30 mm per side and the detonation initiation point, which, as a rule, is always a non-connected area. Hardness distribution tests shown that the explosive plating process has resulted in an increase in the hardness of materials near the joint line. The bending studies show that the highest fatigue life is the same as the base material compared to the cladding materials. For each sample, the crack initiation always started in the base material.
Keywords: explosive welding, fatigue life, bending, austenitic steels
Perioperative calcium and vitamin D supplementation in patients undergoing thyroidectomy – literature review
Authors: Grzegory Anna , Pomorski Lech
Published: June 2018

Sentence recommending the content of work:
Due to the health and economic consequences of postoperative hypocalcemia, it is necessary to disseminate knowledge about non-invasive methods of limiting it that can be used in everyday clinical practice such as routine perioperative calcium and vitamin D supplementation.
Abstract
Introduction: Postoperative hypocalcemia is a narrow but significant problem for patients undergoing thyroid and parathyroid surgery. It is the most common complication after thyroidectomy. It is associated with transient or permanent hypoparathyroidism. It could potentially be life-threatening for patients and increases the costs of hospitalization. The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of studies that routinely administrated calcium and/ or vitamin D during the postoperative period.
Materials and Methods: In this article, a literature review – 15 studies that used routine perioperative calcium (7 studies), vitamin D (2 studies) and calcium with vitamin D (11 studies) supplementation was performed. Supplementation effectiveness in prevention of postoperative hypocalcemia was compared to no prophylaxis in 10 studies. Five studies compared the effect of combined administration (calcium and vitamin D) to calcium alone. The number of works dealing with this problem is not particularly large.
Results: Supplementation significantly decreased the rate of laboratory and symptomatic hypocalcemia. It was also effective in reducing the severity of symptoms. The combination calcium with vitamin D was the most effective strategy. No hypercalcemia or parathyroid hormone inhibition was observed in the supplemented groups. Routine supplementation was less expensive than performing laboratory tests in the course of treatment of hypocalcemia.
Conclusions: The results of analyzed studies showed the clinical and economic advantage of routine perioperative prophylactic supplementation of vitamin D and/ or calcium as compared to no prophylaxis. However, the majority of studies showed a significant range of variability in patients’ characteristics. Numerous studies did not evaluated the preoperative 25-hydroxycholecalciferol level - a risk factor for postoperative hypocalcemia.
Discussion: The use of routine prophylactic supplementation of calcium and vitamin D in the perioperative period can be useful in everyday clinical practice. Further research is needed to draw clear guidelines regarding prophylactic calcium and vitamin D therapy for patients after thyroidectomy.
The concept of a prefabricated structure for protection of critical infrastructure facilities
Authors: Sobczyk Kamil , Chmielewski Ryszard , Duda Krzysztof
Published: June 2018

The paper presents the concept of a protective structure in the form of a prefabricated reinforced concrete protective dome intended for protection of a single critical infrastructure facility [1]. Unlike non-movable cast-in-place reinforced concrete structures, the protective structure can be assembled and disassembled repeatedly with the use of dedicated joining sockets. To provide the concept with a high mobility, the dimensions of single modules of the prefabricated reinforced concrete protective dome meet the transport limits dictated by the horizontal and vertical clearance of roads. A numerical computational analysis facilitated a determination of the distribution of internal forces in the protective stricture and dimensioning of the required reinforcement system [3]. The computations included standardized cases of steady and dynamic loads, and combinations thereof, complete with parameters of dynamic loads from an explosion impulse.
Keywords: building engineering, protective structure, prefabricated dome
Simultaneous Extraction and Determination of Allura Red (E129) and Brilliant Blue FCF (E133) in Foodstuffs by Column Solid-Phase Spectrophotometry
Authors: Bişgin Abdullah Taner
Published: June 2018

Background: Allura Red (AR) and Brilliant Blue FCF (BB) are highly water-soluble synthetic food dyes used to color baked goods, beverages, candies, jellies, sausages, etc. Although AR and BB are not entirely toxic, they can lead to health problems in humans. Objective: The aim of the study was to develop a column solid-phase extraction (SPE) and preconcentration method based on the adsorption on a Diaion HP-20 polymeric resin for simultaneous spectrophotometric determination of AR and BB. Methods: The column SPE method was used, and the analytical parameters of the SPE method, such as pH, sample flow rate, sample volume, etc., were systematically investigated and optimized. Results: The detection limits of AR and BB ranged between 0.90 and 0.19 μg/L and quantification limits between 2.59 and 0.53 μg/L, respectively. Preconcentration factors were obtained at 80 and 100 for AR and BB, respectively. The RSDs of the method were lower than 4% for both dyes. The method was successfully applied to foodstuffs. AR and BB contents in foodstuffs were determined between 9.48–407.34 and 2.96–137.12 μg/g, respectively, for solid samples; 52.28 and 5.91 μg/mL of dye contents of liquid samples were determined for AR and BB, respectively. Conclusions: Satisfactory recoveries show that the method will be more useful for future food quality and control applications. Highlights: The developed method exhibited simplicity and reliable, simultaneous determination of AR and BB in foodstuffs.
Alguns temas religiosos em Platão - DOI 10.5752/P.1983-2478.2014v10n17p113
Authors: Pinheiro Marcus Reis
Published: June 2018

ResumoEste artigo busca apresenta dois temas religiosos em Platão: a sua noção de deus e a ascese erótica do Simpósio. Em um primeiro momento, o artigo apresenta alguns aspectos da noção de deus em Platão, mais especificamente no Timeu e na República, e depois, em uma segunda parte, apresentará a importância de Eros como motor do conhecimento filosófico na Simpósio. Apresento de forma resumida os argumentos principais no diálogo Timeu de Platão que descrevem o Demiurgo, artesão do Cosmos, suas atividades e suas características. Como modo a complementar certos traços do que se poderia chamar de deus em Platão, apresento ainda algumas passagens em que se fala sobre deus e seus aspectos na República. Por fim, na segunda parte do artigo, analiso a Escada Erótica descrita por Diotima como sendo parte dos mistérios elevados do Eros, presente no Simpósio 210a.Palavras-Chave: Platão. Deus. Eros. República. Timeu. Simpósio ResuméCet article veut montrer deux thèmes religieux en Platon : sa notion de dieu e la ascese erotique présent dans le Symposium. En premier lieu, l’article montre quelques aspects de la notion de dieu chez Platon, en particulier dans le Timée et la République. Puis, en deuzième partie, on montrera l’importance d’Eros comme moteur de la conaissance philosophique dans le Syposium. On résumera les principaux arguments du Timée qui décrivent le Démiurge, artisan du cosmos, sés activités et sés caractéristiques. Afin de compléter certains aspects de ce qu’on pourrait appeler dieu chez Platon, l’article présente encore quelques passages où on parle de dieu et sés aspects dans la République. Enfim, dans la seconde partie du texte, j’analyse l’Échelle Érotique, décrite par Diotime comme partie des Mystéres Élevés d’Eros et présente dans Symposium 210a.Mot-Cles: Platon. Dieu. Eros. République. Timée. Symposium.
A EXPERIÊNCIA DAS MULHERES NA HERMENÊUTICA BÍBLICA - DOI 10.5752/P.1983-2478.2014v10n17p200
Authors: Souza Candiotto Jaci de Fátima
Published: June 2018

ResumoO artigo apresenta uma reflexão sobre a hermenêutica teológica feminista, composta de diversos movimentos interpretativos dos textos sagrados, porém sem a pretensão de elevar-se em novo método teológico. A experiência das mulheres é enfatizada como um dos exemplos de movimento hermenêutico a partir da proposta de Elizabeth Schüssler Fiorenza, em seu livro Caminhos da Sabedoria. A partir deste referencial teórico analisa-se a maneira como algumas teólogas, especialmente latinoamericanas, utilizaram este movimento hermenêutico para percorrer na tradição bíblica veterotestamentária a experiência de proteção e destruição da vida, assim como as experiências da pobreza, da emigração e da solidariedade.Palavras-Chave: Hermenêutica. Experiência. Bíblia. Mulheres. Teologia. AbstractThe article focuses on feminist theological hermeneutics. This hermeneutic is composed of several movements that indicate new perspectives of interpretation of sacred texts, without, however, want to constitute a new theological method. It emphasizes the category of experience as one of the examples of the Wisdom dance, as Elizabeth Schüssler Fiorenza proposed in his book Wisdom Ways: Introducing Feminist Biblical Interpretation. Finally, we study how some Latin American theologians used this hermeneutic turn to theologizing experience of protection and destruction of life, as well as the experiences of poverty, emigration and solidarity.Keywords: Hermeneutics. Experience. Bible. Women. Feminist theology.
Common Worship
Authors: Cockayne Joshua , Efird David ,   The Society of Christian Philosophers
Published: June 2018

People of faith, particularly in the Judeo-Christian tradition, worship corporately at least as often, if not more so, than they do individually. Why do they do this? There are, of course, many reasons, some having to do with personal preference and others having to do with the theology of worship. But, in this paper, we explore one reason, a philosophical reason, which, despite recent work on the philosophy of liturgy, has gone underappreciated. In particular, we argue that corporate worship enables a person to come to know God better than they would otherwise know him in individual worship.
Truth and Truthfulness in Politics
Authors: Pashkova Valeria , Pashkov Mikhail ,   DePaul University
Published: June 2018

In light of the recent debate over post-truth or post-fact politics, Arendt’s work provides important insights on the relationship between truth and politics. While some scholars argue that Arendt regards truth as antagonistic to politics, others focus on her notion of truth of facts in politics. We assert that, for Arendt, truthfulness is essential for politics, but the truthfulness of political actors involves more than the willingness to acknowledge and recognise facts. We read Arendt’s essay “Socrates” and elicit three expectations regarding the truthfulness of political actors: the willingness to constitute one’s own doxa, the willingness to actively engage in dialogue with others and relate one’s doxa to theirs, and the willingness to develop an ongoing practice of “enlarged thought” by sustaining a mental conversation with a variety of doxai in one’s imagination. We find that this threefold notion of truthfulness is of ultimate political importance since it plays an essential role in the human ability to bring to life relationships of plurality and to constitute a “common world.” Our analysis allows us to articulate the challenges associated with practicing truthfulness in the contemporary political realm and the conditions that could enable political actors to take on this practice.
Design principles of a microtubule polymerase
Authors: Geyer Elisabeth A , Miller Matthew P , Brautigam Chad A , Biggins Sue , Rice Luke M
Published: June 2018

Stu2/XMAP215 microtubule polymerases use multiple tubulin-binding TOG domains and a lattice-binding basic region to processively promote faster elongation. How the domain composition and organization of these proteins dictate polymerase activity, end localization, and processivity is unknown. We show that polymerase activity does not require different kinds of TOGs, nor are there strict requirements for how the TOGs are linked. We identify an unexpected antagonism between the tubulin-binding TOGs and the lattice-binding basic region: lattice binding by the basic region is weak when at least two TOGs engage tubulins, strong when TOGs are empty. End-localization of Stu2 requires unpolymerized tubulin, at least two TOGs, and polymerase competence. We propose a ‘ratcheting’ model for processivity: transfer of tubulin from TOGs to the lattice activates the basic region, retaining the polymerase at the end for subsequent rounds of tubulin binding and incorporation. These results clarify design principles of the polymerase.
Genetic differentiation, local adaptation and phenotypic plasticity in fragmented populations of a rare forest herb
Authors: Gentili Rodolfo , Solari Aldo , Diekmann Martin , Duprè Cecilia , Monti Gianna Serafina , Armiraglio Stefano , Assini Silvia , Citterio Sandra
Published: June 2018

Background

Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, numerous forest species are subject to severe population decline. Investigating variation in genetic diversity, phenotypic plasticity and local adaptation should be a prerequisite for implementing conservation actions. This study aimed to explore these aspects in ten fragmented populations ofPhysospermum cornubiensein view of translocation measures across its Italian range.

Methods

For each population we collected environmental data on landscape (habitat size, quality and fragmentation) and local conditions (slope, presence of alien species, incidence of the herbivorous insectMetcalfa pruinosaand soil parameters). We measured vegetative and reproductive traits in the field and analysed the genetic population structure using ISSR markers (STRUCTURE and AMOVA). We then estimated the neutral (FST) and quantitative (PST) genetic differentiation of populations.

Results

The populations exhibited moderate phenotypic variation. Population size (range: 16–655 individuals), number of flowering adults (range: 3–420 individuals) and inflorescence size (range: 5.0–8.4 cm) were positively related to Mg soil content. Populations’ gene diversity was moderate (Nei-H = 0.071–0.1316); STRUCTURE analysis identified five different clusters and three main geographic groups: upper, lower, and Apennine/Western Po plain. Fragmentation did not have an influence on the local adaptation of populations, which for all measured traits showed PST < FST, indicating convergent selection.

Discussion

The variation of phenotypic traits across sites was attributed to plastic response rather than local adaptation. Plant translocation from suitable source populations to endangered ones should particularly take into account provenance according to identified genetic clusters and specific soil factors.
Suitable oasis scales under a government plan in the Kaidu-Konqi River Basin of northwest arid region, China
Authors: Fu Aihong , Li Weihong , Chen Yaning , Liu Yuting
Published: June 2018

The Yanqi Basin and the Konqi River Basin of the Kaidu-Konqi River Basin were chosen as the study sites in this paper in order to investigate suitable scales of natural and artificial oases with a specified water resource and water quantity planned by the local government. Combined with remote-sensing images from 2013, water resources in 2013, 2025 and 2035, and weather and socioeconomic data, suitable scales of oases were analyzed. The results showed that: (1) The total available water quantities in the Yanqi Basin and the Konqi River Basin without river base flow, and the input of water into Bosten Lake and Tarim River, over high-, normal and low-flow periods, in 2025 and 2035, were 19.04 × 108 m3, 10.52 × 108 m3, 4.95 × 108 m3, 9.95 × 108 m3 and 9.95 × 108 m3, as well as 21.77 × 108 m3, 13.95 × 108 m3, 10.11 × 108 m3, 12.50 × 108 m3, and 9.74 × 108 m3. (2) The water demand of the natural oasis in the Yanqi Basin and the Konqi River Basin was 2.59 × 108 m3, and 4.59 × 108 m3, respectively. (3) The total water consumption of the artificial oasis in 2013, 2025, and 2035 were 10.51 × 108 m3, 10.99 × 108 m3 and 10.74 × 108 m3 in the Yanqi Basin, respectively, and 18.59 × 108 m3, 14.07 × 108 m3 and 13.30 × 108m3 in the Kongqi River Basin, respectively. (4) Under government planning, the optimal area in 2025 and 2035 should be 5,100.06 km2 and 5,096.15 km2 in the Yanqi Basin oases, and 6,008.53 km2 and 4,691.36 km2 in the Konqi River Basin oases, respectively, under the different inflow variations, and 4,972.71 km2 and 4,969.22 km2 in the Yanqi Basin oases, and 5,975.17 km2 and 4,665.67 km2 in the Kongqi River Basin oases, respectively, under the appropriate proportion. (5) The artificial oases in these basins should be greatly decreased in the future due to limited water resources.
Long-term experimental in situ farming of Crambe crambe (Demospongiae: Poecilosclerida)
Authors: Padiglia Andrea , Ledda Fabio D. , Padedda Bachisio M. , Pronzato Roberto , Manconi Renata
Published: June 2018

Background

The marine sponge Crambe crambe was chosen as an experimental model of sustainable shallow-water mariculture in the Sardinian Sea (Western Mediterranean) to provide biomass with high potential in applied research.

Methods

Explants were cultured in four long-term experiments (19 and 31 months at ca. 2.5 m depth), to determine the suitability of new culture techniques by testing substrata and seeding time (season), and monitoring survival and growth. Explants were excised and grown in an experimental plant close to the wild donor sponge population. Percentage growth rate (GR%) was measured in terms of surface cover area, and explant survival was monitored in situ by means of a digital photo camera.

Results

Explant survival was high throughout the trial, ranging from 78.57% to 92.85% on travertine tiles and from 50% to 71.42% on oyster shells. A few instances of sponge regression were observed. Explant cover area correlated positively with season on two substrata, i.e., tiles and shells. The surface cover area and GR% of explants were measured in the starting phase and monitored up to the end of the trial. High GR% values were observed both on tiles (>21%) and on oyster shells (>15%).

Discussion

The data on the behaviour and life-style of cultured fragments, together with an increase >2,400% in cover area, demonstrate that in situ aquaculture is a viable and sustainable method for the shallow-water biomass supply of Crambe crambe.
Identifying the predisposing factors, signs and symptoms of overreaching and overtraining in physical education professionals
Authors: Viana Ricardo B. , Gentil Paulo , Lorenço Vinício S. , Vieira Carlos A. , Campos Mário H. , Santos Douglas A.T. , Silva Wellington F. , Andrade Marilia S. , Vancini Rodrigo L. , de Lira Claudio A.B.
Published: June 2018

Background

It is possible that physical education professionals, especially those who participate in aerobic activities, have predisposing factors, signs and symptoms of overreaching (OVR) and overtraining (OVT) due to a high load and volume of exercise followed by suboptimal recovery time. The present study aimed to identify the predisposing factors, signs and symptoms of OVR and OVT in physical education professionals.

Methods

A questionnaire consisting of 42 questions (10 questions group) about predisposing factors and signs/symptoms was answered by 132 physical education professionals from both sexes (83 men and 49 women) who were allocated into a resistance training group (RG, n = 74), aerobic training group (AG, n = 20) and resistance and aerobic training group (RAG, n = 38). A mean score was calculated ranging from 1 (completely absent) to 5 (severe) for each question group. A low occurrence of predisposing factors and signs and symptoms of OVR and OVT was considered to be a question group score 4 or lower. Profile of Mood State Questionnaire (POMS) was also applied.

Results

A mean score of 2.5 ± 0.7, 2.7 ± 0.7 and 2.7 ± 0.8 was found for all question groups for RG, AG and RAG, respectively. Of the total sample, 40.6% trained at least five times/week. The POMS revealed that 67.5% of the RG (n = 50), 80% of the AG (n = 16) and 60.5% of the RAG (n = 23) were classified as having no mood disorders and a standard graphic iceberg was presented. There were no statistical differences (p > 0.05) in the total mood disorders among RG (13.9 ± 24.5), AG (10.3 ± 25.1) and RAG (14.6 ± 27.9) groups.

Conclusion

Despite the volume of training/body working performed by the physical education professionals surveyed being greater than the recommended to achieve improvements on physical fitness, they did not show predisposing factors, signs or symptoms of OVR and OVT.
Multivalent Interactions between 2D Nanomaterials and Biointerfaces
Authors: Tu Zhaoxu , Guday Guy , Adeli Mohsen , Haag Rainer
Published: June 2018

2D nanomaterials, particularly graphene, offer many fascinating physicochemical properties that have generated exciting visions of future biological applications. In order to capitalize on the potential of 2D nanomaterials in this field, a full understanding of their interactions with biointerfaces is crucial. The uptake pathways, toxicity, long‐term fate of 2D nanomaterials in biological systems, and their interactions with the living systems are fundamental questions that must be understood. Here, the latest progress is summarized, with a focus on pathogen, mammalian cell, and tissue interactions. The cellular uptake pathways of graphene derivatives will be discussed, along with health risks, and interactions with membranes—including bacteria and viruses—and the role of chemical structure and modifications. Other novel 2D nanomaterials with potential biomedical applications, such as transition‐metal dichalcogenides, transition‐metal oxide, and black phosphorus will be discussed at the end of this review.
Monolayer Transition Metal Dichalcogenides as Light Sources
Authors: Pu Jiang , Takenobu Taishi
Published: June 2018

Reducing the dimensions of materials is one of the key approaches to discovering novel optical phenomena. The recent emergence of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) has provided a promising platform for exploring new optoelectronic device applications, with their tunable electronic properties, structural controllability, and unique spin valley–coupled systems. This progress report provides an overview of recent advances in TMDC‐based light‐emitting devices discussed from several aspects in terms of device concepts, material designs, device fabrication, and their diverse functionalities. First, the advantages of TMDCs used in light‐emitting devices and their possible functionalities are presented. Second, conventional approaches for fabricating TMDC light‐emitting devices are emphasized, followed by introducing a newly established, versatile method for generating light emission in TMDCs. Third, current growing technologies for heterostructure fabrication, in which distinct TMDCs are vertically stacked or laterally stitched, are explained as a possible means for designing high‐performance light‐emitting devices. Finally, utilizing the topological features of TMDCs, the challenges for controlling circularly polarized light emission and its device applications are discussed from both theoretical and experimental points of view.
Stable Metal Anode enabled by Porous Lithium Foam with Superior Ion Accessibility
Authors: Hafez Ahmed M. , Jiao Yucong , Shi Jianjian , Ma Yi , Cao Daxian , Liu Yuanyue , Zhu Hongli
Published: June 2018

Lithium (Li) metal anodes have attracted much interest recently for high‐energy battery applications. However, low coulombic efficiency, infinite volume change, and severe dendrite formation limit their reliable implementation over a wide range. Here, an outstanding stability for a Li metal anode is revealed by designing a highly porous and hollow Li foam. This unique structure is capable of tackling many Li metal problems simultaneously: first, it assures uniform electrolyte distribution over the inner and outer electrode's surface; second, it reduces the local current density by providing a larger electroactive surface area; third, it can accommodate volume expansion and dissipate heat efficiently. Moreover, the structure shows superior stability compared to fully Li covered foam with low porosity, and bulky Li foil electrode counterparts. This Li foam exhibits small overpotential (≈25 mV at 4 mA cm−2) and high cycling stability for 160 cycles at 4 mA cm−2. Furthermore, when assembled, the porous Li metal as the anode with LiFePO4 as the cathode for a full cell, the battery has a high‐rate performance of 138 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C. The beneficial structure of the Li hollow foam is further studied through density functional theory simulations, which confirms that the porous structure has better charge mobility and more uniform Li deposition.
Hovering Microswimmers Exhibit Ultrafast Motion to Navigate under Acoustic Forces
Authors: Louf Jean‐François , Bertin Nicolas , Dollet Benjamin , Stephan Olivier , Marmottant Philippe
Published: June 2018

The goal of this study is to engineer 3D‐microswimmers containing a bubble that can be stimulated and guided with acoustic waves emitted by transducers. By using 3D‐microfabrication techniques, 20 × 20 × 26 µm swimmers are designed with a trapped air bubble pointing toward the substrate, thus mimicking a hovercraft. Acoustic vibrations are then remotely applied to the bubble, which generates a strong steady flow (0.1–2 mm s−1), an effect referred as acoustic streaming, resulting in a jet below the hovercraft. It is found that the motion of the swimmer relies on two parameters, namely the frequency and amplitude of the acoustic wave. The swimmer velocities are measured and a very wide distribution from 0.05 to 350 mm s−1 or 17 500 body lengths is observed. Such a high velocity in terms of body length makes this swimmer one of the fastest among the different microswimmers reported in the literature. The motion of the swimmer is found to be a combination of two forces orientated in different directions: the streaming force and the radiation force. While the first one is reducing adhesion, the second one is helping the motion. Using different transducers orientated toward different directions, the swimmer is enabled to be navigated into different directions as well.