bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Heavy Metals Pollution Status of the Groundwater around Riruwai Mining Area, Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Badamasi H. , Hassan U. F. , Adamu H. M. , Baba N. M.
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the heavy metals pollution status of the groundwater of Riruwai mining area, Kano State, Nigeria. A total of 31 groundwater samples were collected from five sampling locations which include: underground mining site (RGWI), tap water, (RGW2), surface mining ponds (RGW3), borehole (RGW4) and the well water samples (RGW5) during the dry and rainy seasons. The concentrations of seven heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Mn, Pb and Zn) and some physical parameters (pH, EC, and TDS) were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer and Deluxe Water and Soil Analysis Kit respectively. The results of the analysis revealed that pH, EC and TDS were within the desirable limits recommended by WHO and NSDWQ in all sampling locations except in RGW1 and RGW3 for both seasons. The concentrations of heavy metals ranged as follow: As (ND to 0.15), Cd (ND to 0.1), Cr (ND to 0.25), Hg (ND to 0.09), Mn (0.12 to 0.66), Pb (0.003 to 0.06) and Zn (2.29 to 11.75), and As (0.005 to 020), Cd (0.001 to 0.15), Cr (0.001 to 0.17), Hg (ND to 0.14), Mn (0.16 to 0.92), Pb (0.007 to 0.09) and Zn (2.85 to 14.05) during the dry and rainy seasons respectively. The heavy metals concentrations changed along with the sampling sites in decreasing order of RGW1 > RGW2 > RGW3 > RGW4 > RGW5 in both seasons. The concentrations of all heavy metals were above the desirable limits recommended by WHO and NSDWQ during both seasons except well water samples (RGW5) and some few locations where the heavy metals were not detected. Therefore, it is recommended that water resources of the Riruwai mining area should be monitored closely, and more efforts should be made to reduce heavy metals concentrations level, particularly As, Cd, Cr and Zn.
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis of the Temporal Bone in Children: Two Cases Report
Authors: Labani Y. , Oulghoul O. , Benhoummad O. , Rochdi Y. , Raji A.
Published: May 2021

Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare hematologic disease due to multiplication and accumulation of Langerhans cells, which are immature dendritic cells. The clinical presentation is highly variable and can range from isolated, self-healing skin or bone lesions to life-threatening multisystem disease. We report 2 cases confirmed by Histological and immunohistochemical evaluation of temporal bone biopsies. The first case is a 2-year-old child with chronic bilateral otorrhea and polyuria-polydipsia syndrome. Physical examination showed bilateral retroauricular redness and induration with filling all of the right and left external ear canal. Computed tomography showed osseous lysis of the temporal bone bilaterally. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed the presence of pituitary infiltration. The second case is 2-year-old girl with chronic left otorrhea. Clinical examination objectified the presence of redness and induration in the left mastoid with the presence of an inflammatory polyp filling the entire left external auditory canal. Computed tomography revealed a left temporal bone lysis. Both patients were treated with chemotherapy.
Neonatal Choanal Atresia: A Series of 13 Cases
Authors: Hadid F. , Hakimi M. , Benhommad O. , Rochdi Y. , Raji A.
Published: May 2021

Choanal atresia is a congenital disease that Is manifested at birth when it is bilateral. Unilateral forms can be observed later in life as they are usually well tolerated. Choanal atresia’s frequency is difficult to estimate. It is estimated to be 1 case per 5000 to 8000 births [1]-[3]. Our work is a retrospective study of the cases of choanal atresia that were managed in the ENT department of the Mohamed VI University Hospital during a period of eleven years from January 2010 to December 2020. We identified 13 cases of choanal atresia. The aim of this work is to analyze the elements of the diagnosis, the indications and the surgical techniques as well as our results of the endonasal endoscopic approach in order to identify a therapeutic strategy. The average age of our patients was 21 days, with extremes ranging from 1 day to 28 days. The maximum number of cases was observed in newborns during the first week of life, with a slight female predominance of 7/6. The sex ratio was 0,85. In our series, the delay was most often short with extremes ranging from day 1 of life to day 22. There were 9 bilateral imperforations (69.23%), and 4 unilateral imperforations (30.77%), 2 on the right side (50%) and 2 on the left side (50%). The diagnosis of choanal atresia was confirmed by computed tomography (CT) and nasal endoscopy. All our patients underwent surgical treatment by endonasal endoscopic approach with calibration with a favorable evolution. Through this study, we concluded that the frequent association with other anomalies requires a clinical and paraclinical evaluation and a long-term follow-up. Nasal endoscopy and CT scan have completely revolutionized the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches of choanal atresia, and the endoscopic endonasal approach remains the best therapeutic choice.
Nasopharngeal Tuberculosis Simulating Cancer: About 2 Cases
Authors: Hadid F. , Oulghoul O. , Benjelloun H. , Benhommad O. , Raji A. , Rochdi Y.
Published: May 2021

Primitive tuberculosis of the nasopharynx is rare. Clinical symptoms and paraclinical examinations are often confusing. Pseudotumour forms are frequent, which poses a problem of differential diagnosis with cavum cancer. We reported two cases of nasopharyngeal tuberculosis, followed up in the ear, nose and throat department of the Arrazi Hospital of the Mohammed VI University Hospital in Marrakesh. The first case concerned a 22-year-old female patient admitted to hospital for an etiological assessment of a right spinal adenopathy evolving in a context of altered general condition with weight loss, anorexia, and night sweats. The second case was a 14-year-old patient with a fistulised right spinal adenopathy with nasal obstruction and homolateral deafness. Nasofibroscopy in both patients showed a burgeoning tumour on the right posterolateral wall. A biopsy of the cavum was indicated. The histological study of the biopsies revealed an epithelial-giganto-cellular granuloma with caseous necrosis. This allowed to make the diagnosis of nasopharyngeal tuberculosis, and an antibacillary treatment was instituted. The evolution was favorable.
Bicortical Screw and Needle Welded Together as Effective Implant Technique for Immediate Load of SINGLE Tooth in Aesthetic Zone Characterized by Severe Bony Reabsorption: Cases Report
Authors: Dal Carlo Luca , Pasqualini Marco E. , Rossi Franco
Published: May 2021

After a long period of time in which submerged implants were used just with delayed load, scientific evidence has led to immediate loading, finally re-evaluating the long lasting experience gotten with one-piece implants.

In aesthetic area, if bone is deep and wide, immediate load can be performed with any type of implants, with scarce risk of failure.

Situations in which bone is scarce are frequent and impose to choose between performing a suitable technique compatible with immediate loading or renouncing to immediate loading.

In our experience, implant technique based on the welding-in-mouth of a titanium needle to main implant is regularly destined to success, because the needle implant, deeply anchored to bone, compensates the lateral forces that normally push the tooth forward.

The long lasting experience accrued since over 30 years in our professional offices leads us to suggest this technique as a standard solution while dealing with bone reabsorption in the aesthetic area. We are certain that further studies will confirm our conclusions.
Validation of the Insomnia Severity Index on Patients Recovering from High Impact Car Accidents
Authors: Cernovsky Zack Z. , Litman Larry C. , Nosonova Vitalina
Published: May 2021

Background: The Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) is widely used in clinical assessments of insomnia in patients injured in high impact motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). This study examines the criterion and convergent validity of ISI on this clinical population.

Method: De-identified archival data were available on 112 post-MVA patients (37 men, 75 women, mean age 38.8 years, SD=13.1). They completed the ISI as well as the Brief Pain Inventory, the Rivermead Post-concussion Symptoms Questionnaire, the Subjective Neuropsychological Symptoms Scale (SNPSS), Items 10 to 12 of the Whiplash Disability Questionnaire (ratings of depression, anger, and of anxiety), Whetstone Vehicle Anxiety Questionnaire, Driving Anxiety Questionnaire (DAQ), Steiner’s Automobile Anxiety Inventory, and some of them also completed the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5).

The ISI responses were also available from a community sample of 21 controls (10 men, 11 women, mean age of 39.2 years, SD=18.5).

Results: The mean ISI total score of post-MVA patients (23.6, SD=13.1) was significantly higher than the one of the controls (6.0, SD=5.4) and significant between groups differences in the same direction were also observed on all 7 individual ISI items: the magnitude of these underlying relationships ranged from Pearson point biserial r of 0.68 to 87. The ISI total score also significantly correlated with ratings of post-MVA pain, depression, generalized anxiety, scores on measures of the post-concussion and whiplash syndrome, PTSD, and on Whetstone’s and DAQ measures of post-MVA driving anxiety.

Discussion and Conclusions: The results show an excellent level of criterion and convergent validity of ISI for clinical assessments of insomnia in post-MVA patients.
High Flow Priapism on ¹⁸FDG PET/CT in a Patient with Urothelial Carcinoma: Case Report
Authors: Ouboukdir A. , Benouhoud J. , Lachhab H. , Waffar C. , Ghannam Y.
Published: May 2021

We studied a 52-year-old man diagnosed with a high-grade urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract treated with nephroureterectomy and chemotherapy who presented a benign high-flow priapism with intensive 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake as an unusual finding in the positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) that also showed mediastinal and lumbo-aortic node involvement and liver metastases. Upon examination, the patient had a painless erection that lasted for five days with no episode of recurrence at two-month follow-up.
Evaluation of Salivary Superoxide Dismutase Levels in Oral Submucous Fibrosis – A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Nagar Kavita , Sujatha G.P. , Lingappa Ashok
Published: May 2021

Background: Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) is a potentially malignant disorder with areca nut being the main etiological agent. Increased risk of malignant potential of OSMF necessitates the early diagnosis of the condition. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) scavenges oxygenated free radicals and can be used as a potential biomarker for oral cancer detection.

Objectives: The present study was conducted to estimate and compare salivary SOD levels in patients with OSMF and healthy controls and to compare its levels in different clinical and functional stages of OSMF.

Methodology: The study group (Group 1) included 30 patients of OSMF, and the control group (Group 2) was formed by age and sex-matched healthy individuals. Salivary SOD levels were determined by Nitro Blue Tetrazolium (NBT) chloride method. The levels of salivary SOD were compared between the two groups and the data thus obtained was subjected to statistical analysis using independent sample t-test and one way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) test.

Results: The mean salivary SOD in the study group was 0.583 IU/mL and 0.864 IU/mL in control group and the difference was found to be statistically significant. Thus, the patients with OSMF had significantly lower levels of salivary SOD compared to the controls.

Conclusion: The decrease in the salivary SOD levels in patients with OSMF suggests the role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of OSMF and initiation and progression of carcinogenesis. Thus, it can be used as a prognostic marker for early detection of carcinoma in patients with OSMF and thereby, improving the quality of life patients.
Intense Quench Process in Slow Agitated Water Salt and Polymer Solutions
Authors: Kobasko Nikolai Mykola
Published: May 2021

In the paper it is shown that quenching in slow agitated water salt solution of optimal concentration and in low concentration of inverse solubility polymers is intensive quenching creating maximal temperature gradients at the beginning of cooling. The evidence to support such idea were collected by analyzing quenching process in liquid media where any film boiling process was completely absent. In this case, surface temperature at the beginning of cooling drops closely to saturations temperature of a liquid within the interval 1–2 seconds, independently on nature of water solution, and then during transient nucleate boiling process maintains at the level of boiling point of a liquid which is often called self–regulated thermal process. The computer modeling of such cooling processes provided Kondrat’ev numbered Kn which are strongly linear function of time. At the beginning of cooling Kondrat’ev number is almost equal to 1 while average Kondrat’ev number Kn≥0.8. According to US Patent, intensive quenching starts when Kn=0.8. Based on achieved results, it is possible to perform intensive quenching in slow agitated of low concentration water salt and polymer solutions, usually initiated by hydrodynamic emitters. Along with liquid agitation, emitters generate resonance wave effect which destroys film boiling processes making cooling very uniform and intensive. The proposed IQ process works perfectly when martensite starts temperature Ms>Ts. If saturation temperature Ts≥Ms, intensive austempering process via cold liquids can be successfully performed to replace slow cooling of molten salts and alkalis by intensive quenching in liquid media.
The Validity and Reliability of Turkish Version of Awareness of Narrative Identity Questionnaire (ANIQ)
Authors: SEVİM Erdem , OTRAR Mustafa
Published: June 2021

Purpose The aim of this study is to adopt Awareness of Narrative Identity Questionnaire (ANIQ) developed by Hallford & Mellor into Turkish and examine the validity and reliability of the questionnaire. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study group consists of 539 students from different universities including Marmara University Faculty of Dentistry and various departments of Atatürk Education Faculty, Marmara University Formation and Bilgi University Nursing Department students. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed during adaption of the questionnaire and the data obtained was analyzed by using SPSS.21 and AMOS 25 analysis programs. Findings: As a result of the CFA for construct validity, the fit indices were found to be acceptable. The factor loadings of the scale items ranged from .65 to .91. The internal consistency reliability coefficients of the sub-dimensions of the scale ranged from .84 to .94 and test-retest coefficients ranged from .77 to .95. The meaningful relationship between life satisfaction, general competence, self-esteem and the meaning of life show the criterion-related validity of the scale. Highlights: In line the results of the adaptation of the Awareness of Narrative Identity Questionnaire into Turkish indicate that the Turkish version of the scale can be used in researches as a valid and reliable measurement tool.
Problems of regulation of investment relations in the of energy in the era of digitalization (on the example of coal energy)
Authors: Shpinev Iurii S. , Lizikova Marina S. , Solovyanenko Nina I. , Lebed Konstantin A.
Published: May 2021

This article discusses the development, current situation and medium-term prospects of the Russian coal industry. The issues of the specifics of the industry, investment risks, as well as the legal regulation of investments at the present time are highlighted separately. Based on the current legislation, statistical data and scientific publications on the topic under consideration, the author comes to a number of conclusions regarding the current state, prospects, legal regulation and the appropriate type of investment in the coal industry. In the course of the research, the author, in addition to general scientific methods of synthesis and analysis, used such special methods as historical, comparative-legal, formal-legal.
Technology implementation in the law-making practice of the CIS countries
Authors: Tileubergenov Yerazak Manapovich , Turlybekovich Tuleyev Serik , Zhardenbek Sharivkhan
Published: May 2021

The article is devoted to the implementation of digital technologies in the real legal practice of the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Examples of modern technologies in the legislation of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, the Russian Federation and other countries are given and considered in detail. As a result of the research, the authors come to the conclusion that the informatization of law-making activities is a priority direction for the development of legal theory and practice not only in the CIS countries, but also for the entire legal profession in the world. Given the acceleration of digitalization and informatization of all spheres of society in the post-pandemic world, the authors emphasize the absolute importance of taking into account the risks and contradictions that legislative initiatives may face not only in the CIS countries, but also around the world.
Formation of research competencies in the mathematical education of future lawyers
Authors: Kairdenov Serik Syrlybaevich , Stukalenko Nina Mihailovna , Turtkarayeva Gulnara Baynovna , Tileubergenov Yerazak Manapovich
Published: May 2021

This study is intended to reveal the processes of formation of research competencies in the mathematical education of future lawyer. The process of forming research competencies is presented through the prism of factorization of academic disciplines. The article demonstrates the need to fragment the educational process into segments, taking into account the needs of the student and his personal characteristics. The study confirms the need for a competent approach to the research activities of future lawyers. The importance and necessity of updating mathematical education is given. The authors come to the conclusion that despite some progress in the quality of teaching mathematical disciplines, the methodology of education still needs new approaches and further updating, taking into account the digitalization of education.
The doctrine of the rule of law in the light of the theory of legal interpretation
Authors: Rotan Vladimir Gavrilovich , Koval Vladimir Nikolaevich , Zenin Sergey , Yapryntsev Ivan Mikhaylovich , Chertkova Yuliya Valentinovna
Published: June 2021

The article deals with the problem of the connection of legal norms with the texts of the provisions of legislative acts, in which the legal norms are fixed. The purpose of this article is an attempt to develop such aspects of the doctrine of legal norms that would allow the concept of legal norms to cover almost all the legal content of the recognized theories, law, and practice of legal enforcement sources of law and create a holistic view of the legal norm. There are legal norms that are fixed textually (expressed verbally), and legal norms that are fixed logically. The latter type of norms usually does not fall into the field of view of scholars. The article substantiates the need to study the legal norms that are logically fixed in the provisions of legislative acts and the corresponding development of the doctrine of legal norms.
Gender Analysis of Sexual Misconduct in UN Peacekeeping Operations
Authors: Naramanik Wirantoputri Rikianarsyi Arrassyidinta
Published: May 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi faktor penyebab tetap terjadinya eksploitasi dan pelecehan seksual yang dilakukan oleh pasukan perdamaian PBB terhadap perempuan lokal di negara konflik. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis gender, pendekatan kualitatif dan studi literatur. Hal yang dikaji dalam penelitian ini yakni kebijakan PBB mengenai pelarangan beragam jenis relasi seksual pasukan perdamaian PBB dan perempuan lokal, data laporan tuduhan eksploitasi dan pelecehan seksual yang disampaikan penduduk, dan Indeks Perempuan, Perdamaian, dan Keamanan (WPS Index) dari negara pengirim dan penerima pasukan perdamaian PBB. Penelitian ini berargumen bahwa dalam penugasan misi perdamaian, terdapat aspek gender yang diabaikan oleh PBB, yakni budaya patriarki di kedua kelompok negara, pandangan hyper-masculinism para pasukan militer, dan tujuan berdimensi gender dari negara pengirim yang ingin membentuk dan mempertontonkan identitas mereka sebagai pelindung. Penelitian ini menyarankan kepada PBB agar mengkaji WPS Index negara pengirim sebelum menerima pasukan perdamainnya.

 

Kata Kunci: Analisis Gender, Eksploitasi dan Pelecehan Seksual, Pasukan Perdamaaian PBB, WPS Index
Whose Governance, Which Legitimacy? Myanmar’s Collective Agency In A Domineering Framework On The Rohingya Crisis
Authors: Sesarianto Kevin Ali
Published: May 2021

July of 2017 is the last time the United Nations special rapporteur was allowed into Myanmar to report on the Rohingya crisis. By contrast, the Foreign Minister of Indonesia was well-received to talk about the same problem in 2017. This article sees the problem as a legitimacy crisis: Myanmar did not see the United Nations intervention framework to report on the Rohingya crisis as legitimate due to the perceived lack of the formerâ€™s agency in that framework. This article uses the concept of collective agency to further understand Myanmarâ€™s reception of the United Nations regarding the Rohingya crisis. Myanmarâ€™s rationality â€“ way of seeing things â€“ is seen to be marginalised and even deleted by the United Nationsâ€™ internationalist/cosmopolitan rationality through labels such as â€˜draconianâ€™ and â€˜stagnantâ€™ Indonesiaâ€™s approach is more sensitive to Myanmarâ€™s agency. This article concludes that the exclusionist practice by the United Nations makes the framework lose its support-worthiness.
Evaluating Indonesia's Disaster Diplomacy Practices Under The Jokowi Administration In 2018
Authors: Surwandono Surwandono , Maulana Zain , Retnoningsih Tri Astuti Susanthi , Nugroho Ariyanto
Published: May 2021

Artikel ini mengevaluasi praktik diplomasi bencana Indonesia tahun 2018, di mana beberapa peristiwa bencana berturut-turut menyebabkan korban jiwa yang sangat besar dan kerusakan material. Di satu sisi, bantuan internasional merupakan salah satu variabel penting yang dapat berperan dalam mengurangi risiko bencana. Di sisi lain, bantuan internasional dianggap sebagai faktor yang dapat menurunkan legitimasi pemerintah dalam menangani bencana. Artikel ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan studi kasus untuk memahami bencana dan kebijakan bantuan luar negeri serta implikasinya terhadap keamanan negara dan manusia. Artikel ini menemukan bahwa orientasi pemerintah Indonesia di era Presiden Jokowi dalam penanggulangan bencana cenderung pada kebijakan yang berwawasan ke dalam yang konservatif dimana prioritas pemerintah dalam aspek keamanan negara justru membahayakan aspek keamanan manusia (human security)
Merauke “Food Estate”: Alternatif Penanganan Konflik Di Papua Dalam Perspektif Ekonomi-Sosial Dan Budaya
Authors: Sianipar Binsar , Nurish Amanah
Published: May 2021

This study analyzes food estate in Merauke as a conflict resolution alternative in Papua from economic-social and cultural perspectives. The conflicts in Papua are still happening and no best solution has been found yet. Among the roots of the problem are economic and social disparities as well as cultural disharmony. The government is planning to develop a food estate in Merauke, Papua to enhance national food security and as export commodities. Apart from the Government’s objectives, the analysis used qualitative research methods with a sociological approach through field observation and participation. Adopting Galtung’s theory of violence, it shows the food estate in Merauke can potentially contribute to resolving conflicts in Papua, especially to eliminate direct violence and structural violence
Assessing Russia's Military Strategy In The Eastern Mediterranean Through The Establishment Of An A2/AD (Anti-Access/Anti Denial Zone)
Authors: Perwita Anak Agung Banyu
Published: May 2021

The Eastern Mediterranean has long been the area of interests of Russiaâ€™s military power. Referring to one of the on-going armed conflicts in the region, Russia has expanded its claws by militarily intervening in Syria to prevent the regime from collapsing. As the only left arbiter in the war who prioritize a political settlement in Syria, although there are various interests between the actors that involved, Russia has decided to involve in several military operations with Turkey. As the meaning to actualize its interest in operating an anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) zone in the Eastern Mediterranean, Russia is taking Turkey as its significant partner to simplify and to secure its interest in establishing an A2/AD zone. By analyzing several primary and secondary data, this research concluded that Russiaâ€™s goals have been divided into two, first is the short-term goal which is to keep Assad in power. Second, the long term goal which is to deter the influence of the Western by deploying its advanced armed forces in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Barriers for Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to Pave Road to Supranationalism
Authors: Maulaya Mahbi
Published: May 2021

Considering that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) successfully brings forth intensive cooperation and prompts great intimacy among its members, many states perceive SCO as a promising regional organization for bridging their interests and shouldering their burden. Consequently, participation within SCO has expanded with the arrival of several new members and participants. Having in mind that its notoriety grown by leaps and bounds, can SCO increase its capability and competence as a regional organization by becoming a supranational one? Can SCO input supranationalism norms and values into its mechanism? This study argues that it is futile for us to expect that SCO possesses supranational capacity. The argument derives from the fact that SCO is the agent designed to safeguard its memberâ€™s sovereignty, and it consists of stubborn hegemonic power with bold nationalism. This study generated the aforementioned assessment by addressing the idea of supranationalism and implementing qualitative research and library research method.
World Social Forum Sebagai Eksperimentasi Pengorganisasian Politik Multitude
Authors: Shandy Anggar
Published: May 2021

Â­This article provides an analysis of the resistance model and the proposals of World Social Forum (WSF). With Hardt and Negriâ€™s multitude as a theoretical framework, this article found that as a free and plural movement that serves as a non-state and non-partisan medium, WSF succed to stimulate democratic and reflective debates, submit proposals, share experiences, and form an alliance for movements and organisations who also seek to achieve a democratic and just world. This article also identifies the demands and proposals put forward by the WSF, including those related to economic, political, identity/cultural, ecological problems as well as militarism and war. These proposals are manifestation of the alternative vision to neoliberal globalization offered by the WSF.
COVID-19 immunity and vaccines: what a pharmacist needs to know
Authors: Darwish Rula M.
Published: May 2021

COVID-19 vaccines are being produced using different platforms by different companies, some of which are entering Phase 3 and 4 trials. Due to the pandemic, this production has been accelerated, which leaves a window for speculation on the method of production and safety. Pharmacists are familiar with vaccination; however, COVID-19 vaccines are still new and further work is needed to clarify many aspects, including side effects, methods of storage, and number of doses. Prioritization of vaccination has been implemented to a certain extent, but no clear strategy is available. A comprehensive overview on immunity and immunological principles for the design of COVID-19 vaccine strategies is provided in this narrative review and the current COVID-19 vaccine landscape is discussed, in addition to exploring the principles for prioritization of vaccination using data from articles available in PubMed and from health organizations. Pharmacists should have a better understanding of COVID-19 vaccines and their manufacture. This would also allow better counseling of the public on COVID 19, immunization, and explaining prioritization basis and vaccination programs.
Association of industrial work schedules with development of metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and serum adipokine concentrations
Authors: Ravibabu Kalahasthi , Jakkam Surender , Ravi Prakash Jamalpur , Adepu Vinay Kumar
Published: May 2021

Background

Association of work schedule in industrial workers with the progression of metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and serum adipokine concentrations is incompletely explored.

Objective

To determine the association of work schedule with the progression of metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and adipokine concentrations in industrial workers.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study design of industrial workers we compared metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and adipokines concentration between workers in the day shift (n = 52), rotational shift (n = 21), and night shift (n = 15). The international Diabetes Federation criteria were used to diagnose metabolic syndrome. We used a homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Serum insulin, leptin, and adiponectin concentrations were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Serum glucose, triglyceride, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) concentrations were monitored using Prietest clinical chemistry reagents.

Results

The proportional difference in metabolic syndrome (0.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.036–0.587, P = 0.026), median difference of leptin (0.61, 95% CI 0.186–1.034, P = 0.005), and leptin-to-adiponectin ratio (LAR; 0.45, 95% CI 0.235–0.665, P < 0.001) was significantly higher, and serum adiponectin was lower (–2.00, 95% CI −4.197 to 0.197, P = 0.07) in the night-shift workers compared with that of day-shift workers. Among rotational-shift workers, the proportional difference between metabolic syndrome (0.14, 95% CI −0.098 to 0.378, P = 0.25), median difference of leptin (0.25, 95% CI −0.124 to 0.624, P = 0.19), and LAR (0.09, 95% CI −0.099 to 0.279, P = 0.35) was higher, and serum adiponectin concentration was lower (−0.73, 95% CI −2.660 to 1.208, P = 0.46) compared with that of day-shift workers; however, the altered differences were not significant. We observed a higher proportion of difference in HOMA-IR in shift workers (night and rotation) than in day-shift workers.

Conclusion

Night-shift workers are vulnerable to a higher risk of metabolic syndrome, HOMA-IR, and adipokine changes.
Cytogenetic characteristics of and prognosis for acute myeloid leukemia in 107 children
Authors: Chen Wanzi , Yang Jinghui , Chen Ping
Published: May 2021

Background

Patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in childhood have a poor prognosis. A better understanding of prognostic factors will assist patients and clinicians in making difficult treatment decisions.

Objectives

To understand further the cytogenetic characteristics of and reassess the prognostic value of cytogenetic abnormalities in childhood AML.

Methods

Conventional karyotypes of 107 children with AML were analyzed retrospectively. The cases were divided into 4 groups based on genetic rearrangements; namely patients with: t(15;17)/PML-RARA; t(8;21)/RUNX1-RUNX1T1 or inv(16)(p13;q22) and t(16;16)/CBFB-MYH11; −7 or complex karyotypes; normal karyotypes or other cytogenetic changes. Differences in age, sex, leukocyte count, event-free survival (EFS), and overall survival (OS) were analyzed.

Results

All French-American-British (FAB) subtypes of AML were detected in 107 patients. We successfully cultured 81 of 107 bone marrow specimens, of which 60 cases had abnormal karyotypes. The most common abnormal karyotypes were t(8;21) (17/81 cases), followed by t(15;17) (13/81 cases), –X/Y (10/81 cases). There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in age, sex, or leukocyte counts between the 4 groups. The differences in 3-year EFS and OS between each pair were significant, except for groups of patients with t(8;21)/RUNX1-RUNX1T1 and patients with normal karyotypes or other cytogenetic changes (P = 0.054).

Conclusions

Chromosomal abnormalities may provide important prognostic factors for AML in children and be helpful for risk stratification and individual treatment.
The Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Encapsulated Thyme Essential Oil on Growth, Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines, and Serum Amino Acid Profiles of Broiler Chicks Challenged with Salmonella Typhimurium
Authors: Olfati Ali , Hosseini Seyed Majid
Published: May 2021

Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) causes inflammation and has adverse effects on the growth of broiler chicks. Meanwhile, plant derivations improve the growth performance and decrease inflammation, but they do not have enough stability. Encapsulation of essential oils is a new strategy for decreasing their instability. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of encapsulated thyme essential oil (ETEO) on growth, inflammatory cytokines, and amino acid profiles of broiler chicks challenged with S. Typhimurium. Three hundred one-d-old broiler chicks were assigned into 6 groups, and 5 replications per group. The broiler chicks (3 groups) were challenged with S. Typhimurium on day 21 and birds received basal diet (positive control), encapsulated thyme (P-ETEO), and non-capsulated thyme (P-NETEO), while other groups received the same diets, but under normal as a negative control, encapsulated thyme (N-ETEO) and non-capsulated thyme (N-NETEO). Growth performance, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and serum amino acid profiles were assessed on day 42. The challenged birds in positive control showed lower growth performance, higher concentration for inflammatory cytokines, and disturbed blood serum concentrations for amino acid profiles compared to the negative control (P<0.05). The result showed that dietary supplementation of the ETEO could improve growth performance and amino acid profiles, and also decrease inflammatory responses (P<0.05). In sum, S. Typhimurium had negative effects on growth, immunity, and inflammation, but dietary inclusion of the ETEO could decrease its negative effects.
The Effect of Catabolic Transformations of Proteins and Fats on the Quality and Nutritional Value of Raw Ripened Products from Zlotnicka Spotted and Zlotnicka White Meat
Authors: Węsierska Ewelina , Pasternak Małgorzata , Migdał Władysław , Niemczyńska Katarzyna , Gąsior Robert , Wojtycza Krzysztof
Published: May 2021

The aim of the study was to compare the advancement of the ripening as well as catabolic changes in proteins and fats of Zlotnicka Spotted (ZS) and Zlotnicka White (ZW) meat and their impact on the quality and nutritional value of ready-to-eat products. The meat of the breeds ZS and ZW differed not only in the basic chemical composition but also in the susceptibility to catabolic transformations of proteins and lipids, which translated into a separate technological and nutritional quality as well as the profile of volatile odor compounds. Loins due to their compact histological structure, low pH (5.4) and decreased water activity (0.92–0.93) were characterized by a lower number of coagulase-negative cocci (3.3 log cfu/g) compared to hams. The products of both breeds differed in the content of selected neutral glucogenic amino acids with a pI in the range of 5.6–6.1 mainly. The content of biogenic amines was therefore completely dependent on the metabolic potential of acidifying bacteria. Larger number of lactic acid bacilli (7.5–7.7 log cfu/g) and lactic acid cocci (7.9–8.3 log cfu/g), as well as a higher content of saturated (55.2–53.7%) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (6.4–7.0%) shaped the final pH of hams (5.3). Presence of aldehydes, ketones and alcohols indicated existing fat oxidation despite the small values of the TBA index of hams (1.1 mg/kg) and loins (0.4–0.6 mg/kg). The volatile compounds that differentiated products of ZS and ZW formed by the oxidation and microbial activity, were, primarily: octanal, 1-hydroxypropan- 2-one, 3-methylpentan-2-one, propane-1,2-diol, 2,5-dimethylfuran and 3-hydroxybutan- 2-one, butane-2,3-dione, butane-1,2-diol, respectively.
Association Between ATP Citrate Lyase (ACLY) Gene Polymorphism and Fattening, Slaughter and Pork Quality Traits in Polish Pigs
Authors: Terman Arkadiusz , Woźniak-Męch Katarzyna , Korpal Agnieszka , Polasik Daniel , Tyra Mirosław , Szyndler-Nędza Magdalena , Żak Grzegorz , Rybarczyk Artur , Dybus Andrzej
Published: May 2021

The primary aim of this study was to estimate the relationship between ATP citrate lyase (ACLY) gene polymorphism (c.*523 T>C) and fattening and pork quality traits. Investigations were carried out on 526 pigs represented by three breeds: Polish Landrace (n=269), Polish Large White (n=189) and Puławska (n=68). ACLY genotypes were determined by PCR–RFLP method. It was demonstrated that the analyzed polymorphism had significant influence (P<0.05 and P≤0.01) on several economically important traits in pigs, e.g. average daily gain, average backfat thickness, lean meat percentage. The results obtained allow for application of c.*523 T>C polymorphism in breeding programs to improve the pig population in terms of fattening and slaughter traits. However, this breeding program may have a slight negative effect on meat texture parameters.
The Effect of Storage Duration on Some Quality Traits and Composition of Eggs from Different Housing Systems
Authors: Sokołowicz Zofia , Dykiel Magdalena , Augustyńska-Prejsnar Anna , Krawczyk Józefa
Published: May 2021

The effect of storage time at a temperature of 8°C on the direction and dynamics of changes in quality traits of eggs was investigated in shelled table eggs obtained from different egg production systems (cage system – CS, barn system – BS, free-range system – FRS). After 7, 14 and 28 d of storage, eggs from each housing system were tested for physical characteristics and for cholesterol content and fatty acid profile in the yolk. The weight of eggs from all studied housing systems declined with storage duration. The rate of weight loss was smallest in eggs from CS (P<0.05). Storage duration influenced eggshell traits but the rate and direction of these changes did not differ among the studied housing systems. Albumen height and Haugh unit score for eggs from rearing systems under study declined during storage (P<0.05). The greatest reduction of albumen height (18.85%) after the storage period was observed for CS eggs and the lowest (13.24%) for FRS eggs (P<0.05). No effect of storage duration on yolk colour intensity was observed for eggs from all the studied housing systems (P>0.05). Albumen pH increased with storage duration in eggs from all the egg production systems (P<0.05). The increase in the yolk pH during storage was the highest in FRS eggs and the lowest in the CS eggs. The storage duration of eggs from the different housing systems did not significantly influence albumen foaming capacity but adversely affected foam stability. There was no impact of storage duration of eggs from different housing systems on cholesterol content in the yolk. Eggs obtained from the different housing systems showed diverse fatty acid profiles in the yolk but this parameter did not significantly change during storage (P>0.05).
High-Performance Workwear for Coal Miners in Northern China: Design and Performance Evaluation
Authors: Ke Ying , Zheng Qing , Wang Faming , Wang Min , Wang Yi
Published: May 2021

The design of workwear has significant effects on worker performance. However, the current workwear for coal miners in Northern China is poor in fitness and thermal comfort. In this study, new workwear (NEW) for coal miners was developed with the design features providing better cold protection and movement comfort performance, as compared with a commonly worn workwear (CON). To evaluate the effectiveness of NEW, we conducted human trials which were performed using simulated work movements (i.e., sitting, shoveling, squatting, and crawling) in a climate chamber (10°C, 75% RH). Physiological measurements and perceptual responses were obtained. The results demonstrated that the local skin temperatures at chest, scapula, thigh, and calf; mean skin temperatures,; and thermal comfort in NEW were significantly higher than those in CON. NEW also exerted an improvement in enhancing movement comfort. We conclude that NEW could meet well with the cold protective and mobility requirements.
Public sector innovation performance in Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina: An exploratory factor analysis
Authors: Krndzija Lamija
Published: May 2021

Innovation has nowadays become the main force to cope with challenging times in the fast-changing world. The influence of public sector innovation (PSI) in resolving dynamic economical and societal challenges is undisputable. Regardless of the numerous advantages of innovation in the public sector (PS) which have been recognised worldwide, the concept of public sector innovation is still novel for the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH). Moreover, there is limited empirical evidence which would facilitate the understanding of public sector innovation performance. The purpose of this paper is to identify main components of PSI performance. The primary research data was obtained through a survey with close-ended questions which was completed by the public sector institution employees in FBiH. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used in order to determine the principal components of measuring public sector innovation performance. The EFA returned the factor-structures for all four suggested constructs, innovation capabilities, wider sector conditions for innovation, sources of information and the share of creative occupation, explaining between 65% and 78% of the variance of the innovation performance measurement construct. The results from the exploratory factor analysis provided a distinct estimation on the factor structure of measuring PSI. The paper has provided and analysed the first instrument in measuring public sector innovation performance in FBiH.
The EU's regional trade agreements: How the EU addresses challenges related to digital transformation
Authors: Slok-Wodkowska Magdalena , Mazur Joanna
Published: May 2021

The objective of this paper is to provide insight into the regulatory solutions that refer to the electronic commerce (e-commerce) adopted in the regional trade agreements (RTAs) of the European Union. Our goal is to compare these regulatory measures with the obstacles indicated in the literature as key issues hampering international digital trade. We provide a formal-dogmatic analysis of all of the newly adopted RTAs. The findings resulting from this analysis indicate that even though the regulatory dimension of global economic trade attempts to somehow address the issues resulting from the specific characteristics of the digital economy, the process is still in its infancy. The majority of provisions do not consider the key problems that impede international digital trade. The originality of our work results from its focus on the most recent RTAs, the analysis of which is hardly present in the scholarship.
Machine Learning in Terminology Extraction from Czech and English Texts
Authors: Kováříková Dominika
Published: May 2021

The method of automatic term recognition based on machine learning is focused primarily on the most important quantitative term attributes. It is able to successfully identify terms and non-terms (with success rate of more than 95 %) and find characteristic features of a term as a terminological unit. A single-word term can be characterized as a word with a low frequency that occurs considerably more often in specialized texts than in non-academic texts, occurs in a small number of disciplines, its distribution in the corpus is uneven as is the distance between its two instances. A multi-word term is a collocation consisting of words with low frequency and contains at least one single-word term. The method is based on quantitative features and it makes it possible to utilize the algorithms in multiple disciplines as well as to create cross-lingual applications (verified on Czech and English).
Grammatical Tenses and Communicative Intentions: A case study of the German Perfekt and Präteritum
Authors: Concu Valentina
Published: May 2021

Recent research in syntax and corpus linguistics has shown how the German Perfekt (present perfect) and Präteritum (simple past) are widely used in written language—even though these tenses are commonly described in DAF (German as a foreign language) materials as used respectively in the spoken and written forms. While these analyses only focus on written corpora, an extensive study on the use of tenses in spoken interaction is still missing. In this paper, I try to fill this gap in the literature by exploring the use of Perfekt and Präteritum in the recordings of the Frankfurt Auschwitz trials, held in Frankfurt am Main, from December 20, 1963, to August 19, 1965, and available on the web page of the Fritz Bauer Institute. Textual analyses of the depositions of five former German prisoners of the Polish concentration camp show that German native speakers use both tenses in their spoken interactions. These results widely contradict their depiction in DAF materials, textbooks, and grammars. Furthermore, the types of Präteritum found are far more diverse than is traditionally held by scholars, who claimed that the use of this tense in spoken language is limited to verbs such as sein (to be), haben (to have) and modals, such as können (can), müssen (must), sollen (should), etc. The outcome of this study shows how the difference between Perfekt and Präteritum is determined by the subjective attitude of the speakers in relation to the information they want to convey.
Finite element modeling of continuous drive friction welding of Al6061 alloy
Authors: Tashkandi Mohammed A.
Published: May 2021

Continuous drive friction welding process is widely used in various industrial applications to assemble shafts, tubes, and many other components. This paper's motivation was developing a CDFW model using the Finite Element Method (FEM). The coupling of the process's thermal and mechanical behaviors was considered during the simulation by COMSOL Multiphysics®. The construction of phase transition curves for Al6061 allowed determining several temperature-dependent thermophysical properties of the material. These properties are then injected in a second simulation to study the temperature evolution during welding. Subsequently, these results are compared and analyzed with the experimental outcomes. Excellent comparability between the model and experimental results was achieved. A unique phenomenon in the welding temperature profile was observed and explained through the model and experimental results interpretation.