bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial intelligence based model for establishing the histopathological diagnostic of the cutaneous basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Dragomir Andrei Calin , Cocuz Iuliu Gabriel , Cotoi Ovidiu Simion , Azamfirei Leonard
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Artificial intelligence (AI), a component of computer science, has the ability to process the multitude of medical data existing in the medical system around the world. The goal of our study is to build an AI model, based on Machine Learning, capable of assisting pathologists around the world in the diagnosis of the basal cell carcinoma of the skin.

Material and Method: Our study is represented by the development of a Mask-RCNN (Mask Region-based Convolutional Neural Network) model, for the detection of cells with typical basal cell carcinoma tumoral changes. A number of 258 digitized histological images were used. The images emerged from Hematoxylin&Eosin stained pathology slides, diagnosed with cutaneous basal cell carcinoma between January 2018 and December 2021, at the Pathology Service of the Mureș County Clinical Hospital.

Results: All the used images have the unique resolution of 2560x1920 pixels. For the learning process, we divided these images into two datasets: the learning dataset, representing 80% of the total images; and the test dataset, representing 20% of the total images. The AI model was trained using 1000 epochs with a learning rate of 0.00025 and only one classification category: basal cell carcinoma.

Conclusions: The AI model successfully identified in 85% of the cases the areas with pathological changes present in the input images.
Non-surgical approach to a paediatric pilocytic astrocytoma with MRI follow-up. Case report and brief literature review
Authors: Fülöp Andrei-Cristian , Opriș Zeno , Fülöp Eugen-Francisc , Ghilință Ioana-Geanina , Zagan Catalin Andrei , Kövecsi Attila
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Pilocytic astrocytoma is a common tumour in paediatric patients. A low-grade glioma, it is most commonly treated by surgery, with various post-surgical side effects. New methods of treatment and follow-up are constantly evolving to offer alternative options to paediatric patients whose nerve structures are developing.

Case presentation: A 9-year-old patient diagnosed with a pilocytic astrocytoma by MRI and histopathological examination underwent a biopsy and evacuation procedure of the cystic component after which the patient’s condition improved significantly. The ‘wait-and-see’ approach using MRI instead of total surgical excision of the tumour was preferred, and the patient had favourable results on control imaging.

Conclusions: Paediatric patients suffering from pilocytic astrocytoma with favourable imaging and histopathological features may consider MRI follow-up instead of surgical excision until the character of the tumour changes or until the brain has reached full development.
Nano-scale surface modification of dental implants – An emerging boon for osseointegration and biofilm control
Authors: Sachin Palekar Gouri , Uppoor Ashita S. , Nayak Sangeeta U.
Published: January 2023

Implant therapy is a commonly based method of replacing missing teeth. A range of physical, chemical, and biological modifications have been applied to the surface of titanium implants to improve their biological performance and osseointegration outcomes. Implant surface characteristics play an important function in several peri-implant cellular and molecular mechanisms. Clinicians are commonly placing dental implants with various surface roughness and modifications including plasma-sprayed, acid-etched, blasted, oxidized, hydroxyapatite-coated, or combinations of these procedures. Surface modifications are to facilitate early osseointegration and to ensure a long-term bone-to-implant contact without substantial marginal bone loss can be accomplished. It is apparent that different modifications have a range of beneficial effects, it is essential to consider at what time point and in what conditions these effects occur. This article reviews existing surface modification technologies of mainstream dental implants and the correlation between implant surface coatings and their performance of osseointegration or anti-bacterial ability it needs to be evaluated.
Alpha adrenergic receptors in clinical practice – Present and future
Authors: Lechsner Patrick , Ban Erika-Gyongyi
Published: January 2023

In this review we discuss the adrenergic pathways for alpha 1 and alpha 2 receptors and the current as well as potential future medication targeting these receptors. Overall, there is ongoing research into a multitude of directions with a promising outlook for alpha 1 and alpha 2 adrenergic receptors. The alpha 1-adrenergic receptor subfamily is currently modulating only a modest number of nervous system functions due the fact, that only a relatively small number of selective commercial products are available. Chronic stress can affect the long-term depression of alpha 1 receptors. Recent studies are searching for new molecular targets which might act on these receptors. Presynaptic alpha 2 receptors play an important role in modulating release of several neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. The future of alpha 2 adrenergic receptors in clinical practice looks even more promising and versatile than that of alpha 1 adrenergic receptors. Alpha 2 adrenergic receptors show different responses, especially regarding hypertension and heart failure treatment, and current research suggests a genetic component as a cause, which is being explored further.
Hereditary hemochromatosis: Retrospective study on clinical data from Emergency County Hospital Mures
Authors: Sigmirean Victor
Published: January 2023

Objective: Hereditary hemochromatosis, or primary hemochromatosis, is a recessive genetic liver disorder caused by iron accumulation in tissues. This study evaluates patients with hereditary hemochromatosis to determine correlations between clinical and laboratory data.

Methods: The data analyzed in this study was gathered from the discharge records from 2019 to 2021 of the Gastroenterology Department of the Mures Country Emergency Clinical Hospital. 15 patients with hemochromatosis were sampled during the studied period.

Results: Hepatic cirrhosis is present in 67% of the studied group of patients, 40% of patients presented hypertension and 20% of patients showed diabetes mellitus and portal hypertension. Positive correlations were obtained between serum iron and alkaline phosphatase (r=0.8536), between serum iron and lactate dehydrogenase (r=0.7381), and between serum iron and urea (r = 0.79). Positive, strong correlation between ferritin and serum iron (r=0.7719), GOT (r=0.778) and GPT (r=0.6108). total bilirubin and direct bilirubin (r = 0.85), between total bilirubin and GOT (r = 0.68) and GPT (r = 0.82).

Conclusions: Excess iron stored is influencing organ function trough reactive oxygen species, the hepatic signs being a main participant in the clinical presentation, while serum iron cause damage to other tissues such as myocardium, pancreas and kidneys. Treatment for hemochromatosis includes phlebotomies, and iron chelation with Deferoxamine.
Post maxillectomy definitive rehabilitation in post-covid mucormycosis patients using conventional and 3D printed obturator: A twin case report
Authors: Rathee Manu , Divakar Santhanam , Jain Prachi , Singh Sandeep , Chahal Sujata
Published: January 2023

Maxillectomy is the surgical removal or resection of the maxilla or upper jaw bone. Maxillectomy may be total or partial. It is performed during surgical treatment of cancer and infections (bacterial. fungal) of the oral cavity, nasal cavity and maxillary sinuses. Patient affected from post-Covid mucormycosis require local debridement or surgical resection resulting in maxillectomy. After surgery, patient has difficulty in mastication, speech, and swallowing because of communication between oral and nasal cavity. This may also give rise to psychological challenges and social exclusion. The prosthodontic rehabilitation of such patient using obturator provide a separation between oral and nasal cavity and improve the quality of life of the patient. There are various techniques and materials used for fabrication of definitive obturator. This article discusses the prosthodontic rehabilitation after maxillectomy in post-covid mucormycosis patients using obturator by conventional and 3D printed techniques.
Digitally designed fixed dental prosthesis with stress breaking effect using non-rigid connector for pier abutment: A case report
Authors: Rathee Manu , Divakar Santhanam , Jain Prachi , Singh Sandeep , Chahal Sujata , Tomar Sarthak Singh
Published: January 2023

Rigid connectors between pontic and retainer are preferred way of fabricating fixed partial dentures for many decades as they provide desirable strength, retention and stability to the prosthesis. However, it is not ideal for cases such as lone-standing abutments (pier abutment), maligned teeth where occlusal stress can extrude the restoration. This may lead to marginal leakage and secondary caries on the abutment teeth. Conversely, it is recommended to use non-rigid connectors which act as a stress breaker, where the tensile stresses are concentrated on the surrounding bone and not on the connectors. With advancement in digital technology in dentistry, the non-rigid connectors can be fabricated using additive manufacturing technology. The present case report discusses the Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) designed fixed dental prosthesis with key and keyway (Tenon and Mortise) non-rigid connector for rehabilitation of pier abutment in maxillary posterior region.
Precision Analysis of the Turning Tools with Indexable Inserts, Along Y-Axis
Authors: Beju Livia Dana , Purcar Carmen Maria
Published: January 2023

In order to obtain good quality of the machining surfaces, it is necessary for the cutting tools to be correctly positioned in relation to the workpiece. In the case of turning on CNC machines, the tip of the cutting insert must be placed in the axis of the semi-finished product without additional adjustments on this axis. The paper analyzes the precision of a turning tool because the problem (studied for an insert) can be used for a larger number of inserts placed on more complex tools. The key point that allows the correct design of the insert pocket on the tool body is specified. Also, the dimensional chain on the Y direction of the turning tool and the non-linear tolerance specifications of the cutting tool body have been established.
Determining the Forming Limit Diagram by Experimental Methods
Authors: Rusu Gabriela-Petruța , Popp Mihai-Octavian , Chicea Anca Lucia , Popp Ilie-Octavian
Published: January 2023

In general, a large part of the time is devoted to the design and production of reliable parts where extensive knowledge is required for the design engineers to come up with an optimal solution for the tooling and sheet metal forming processes. Most of the time, the principle of trial and error is used to get the desired shapes for the products. This is because the prediction of deformations occurring in sheet metal elements is not available and is highly dependent on the geometry of the part, the tools and the deformation process. Prediction is limited by the proper location of necking, shear breakage, and puckering of the material. Searching for a robust deformation process by trial and error is expensive and inefficient. The use of numerical simulations provides engineers with an alternative efficiency for developing a tool and process to produce quality parts in a more efficient and lower cost. Computer simulation is an extension of theoretical science that is based on mathematical models. Such models attempt to characterize the physical prediction or consequences of scientific theories. The purpose of this work is to present the way of determining the forming limit diagram by various experimental methods.
Study of Two-Phase Induction Motor with Non-Orthogonal Stator Windings in Sensorless Systems
Authors: Crăciunaş Gabriela
Published: January 2023

In this paper, the operation of a two-phase induction motor (TPIM) with non-orthogonal stator windings is studied, in a stationary reference frame. Through modeling and simulation on the Matlab/Simulink environment, the influence of the electrical shift angle stator windings on the magnetic and electromechanical quantities of the machine, in transient mode, will be highlighted. Also, another problem studied refers to the determination of the rotor flux of the TPIM by the estimation method, thus avoiding the use of the flux sensor. It was decided to use estimators derived directly from the machine equations written in motor mode, estimators used in electrical drives with analog control. And in this case, simulation was used to highlight, in a transient regime, the performance of using these flux estimators.
Problems of the Application of Recourse Against a Person Who Has Caused Damage by Illegal Acts in Criminal Proceedings: The Case of Lithuania
Authors: Gruodytė Edita , Šalčius Marijus
Published: January 2023

The need to compensate for material and moral damage caused to a person is a constitutional principle, which is implemented in Article 6.272 of the Civil Code of the Republic of Lithuania, establishing the non-contractual liability of the State for damage caused by pre-trial investigation officers, a prosecutor, a judge, or a court (hereinafter referred to as the “Officials”). Furthermore, Article 6.272(4) of the Civil Code provides that if the damage is caused by the intentional actions of the Officials, the State shall acquire the right of recourse in accordance with the procedure laid down by law. In Lithuania, the number of cases of compensation for damage caused by unlawful acts of the Officials is increasing, while the recourse procedure has not yet been applied even though 20 years have passed since the above-mentioned rule of the Civil Code came into force. The authors of the article search for the answer why the recourse procedure is not applied in practice by analysing the legal regulation of the regression and the content of intentional fault using theoretical, comparative, linguistic, historical, jurisprudence analysis, and related legal methods.
Evolution of Administrative Justice in the Baltic States in 1918–1940
Authors: Deviatnikovaitė Ieva , Danovskis Edvīns , Pilving Ivo
Published: January 2023

At the beginning of the twentieth century, administrative courts were established one after another in European countries. In this article, scholars review the origins of administrative justice in three Baltic states – Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia – when all three states declared their independence. In the article, the authors reveal the legal regulation of administrative justice, the procedural provisions of judicial review, the system of institutions that supervised the legality of administrative acts, and their jurisdiction during the period from 1918 to 1940 in the Baltic states.
Criminal Liability Nuances of Medical Negligence During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Pranka Darius
Published: January 2023

Under normal circumstances, the medical negligence of doctors in most European (continental) states is assessed within the limits of criminal liability under the criminal laws of each state, without exception in the case of COVID-19 or another pandemic. The author raises the question of whether doctors, in the performance of their duties and in the provision of treatment services during the COVID-19 pandemic, deserve any relief from their liability due to errors or negligence in the performance of their duties that have resulted in the consequences of damage to health or life loss of patients. The article provides an analysis of the special laws created for such situations and adopted in Poland and Italy while presenting the shortcomings and advantages of such legal regulation and distinguishing the discussion issues raised by legal scholars and practitioners of the abovementioned states. The author criticises the attempt to adopt a similar legal act in Lithuania and at the same time proposes to discuss the possibility of changing the existing legal regulation and setting limits on the criminal liability of doctors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Digital Transformation of Legal Services and Access to Justice: Challenges and Possibilities
Authors: Kiršienė Julija , Amilevičius Darius , Stankevičiūtė Dovilė
Published: January 2023

The pandemic affected the access to justice situation in terms of the never rapid shift to digitalisation of legal services, and in this article, we evaluate whether artificial intelligence (AI) and its state-of-the-art technologies like machine learning and human language technologies have the potential to improve access to legal services. For this purpose, we not only examine and identify problematic areas, but also share the empirical data and insights of the practical application of AI technologies, especially human language technologies. In the first part of the article, we explore how the internet has created the foundations for a new paradigm of society including institution law. The second part of the article is devoted for analysis of challenges for access to justice in post pandemic world. In the third part, we elaborate on questions about technical feasibility, legal and moral acceptability of the digitalisation of legal services. Then follows the case analysis of the practical application of human language technologies in legal domain.
A unique type of industrial railway – the sand railways of southern Poland
Authors: Krzysztofik Robert , Dragan Weronika , Soida Krzysztof
Published: January 2023

Since the mid-twentieth century, the Polish rail network has been experiencing a systematic decline of its lines and this includes railway lines serving only freight services. One of the most striking examples of freight transport is the sand railways in southern Poland. This world-unique system for transporting backfill sand used in hard coal mining was one of the most spectacular types of specialized rail transport. The general crisis of railways in Poland, the restructuring of the hard coal mining industry and changes in the technology for securing the underground parts of mines, have all resulted in a sharp decline in the role of sand railways as the carrier of backfill sand. The infrastructure system, as well as the companies involved in the exploitation of sand and its transport, have had to face the fundamental question about their future. This article indicates the essence of these challenges in the context of the role of sand railways in the freight rail system in general. The function of sand railways in the rail transport system has been recognized in relation to their specific unique features that have constituted important elements of their functional and spatial existence.
Climate change education in Czech and Polish geography textbooks
Authors: Baarova Barbara , Hibszer Adam
Published: January 2023

The article contains a comparative analysis of climate change education in geography education in Czechia and Poland. The topic of climate and its changes is one of the most current challenges for school education at the beginning of the 21st century. The aim of the research was to establish the similarities and differences in the content of teaching climate change in the core curricula and selected textbooks for teaching geography in both countries. Using the method of text analysis, the study covered the core curricula of geography and 22 geography textbooks for primary and secondary school students, including 11 Czech and 11 Polish. The quantitative analysis of the content (the term “climate” and its derivatives, and “climate change”) and the qualitative analysis of the content of curriculum documents and school textbooks led to the basic conclusion that Czech and Polish students using textbooks for learning geography have the opportunity to learn content on: 1/ factors influencing climate change, 2/ causes of climate change, 3/ global warming, 4/ deforestation, 5/ desertification, 6/ melting of glaciers, 7/ consequences of climate change, and 8/ methods of counteracting climate change. By implementing the assumptions of the geography core curricula relating to climate change education and using textbooks during geography lessons, teachers can influence the pro-ecological attitudes of school children.
Impatiens glandulifera (Balsaminaceae) in Ukraine: its current distribution, ecological and coenotic features
Authors: Koniakin Serhii M. , Gubar Liubov M. , Budzhak Vasyl V.
Published: January 2023

Data on the spontaneous distribution (529 sites) of Impatiens glandulifera in the territory of Ukraine have been collected and studied comprehensively. I. glandulifera invades plant communities of the Phragmito-Magnocaricetea class (1 alliance), Salicetea purpureae (1 association), Alnetea glutinosae (1 association), Robinietea (2 associations), and Epilobietea angustifolii (2 associations). The species phytoindicative assessment, which considered 12 ecological factors, revealed that in its secondary distribution range I. glandulifera shows charactericstics of a stenotopic hygromesophyte, subacidophile and is a semi-eutrophic species. In the studied areas, the environmental niche of I. glandulifera is limited mainly by soil water response (Hd) and saline (Sl) regimes, and soil carbonate content. A thermal regime (Tm) response of the species to an increase in the average annual air temperature by 1, 2, and 30С has been predicted. A temperature increase of 20С could, lead to a critical shift in the values of soil acidity (Rc) and salinity regimes (Sl) that might cause a decline of the species’ potential niches in the studied area. The obtained data have the potential to be useful in limiting the spread of I. glandulifera into new territories and reducing its transforming effect in plant communities of river valley corridors.
Worth the wait? Time course of supine shifts in body water compartments on variables of bioelectrical impedance analysis
Authors: Ducharme Jeremy B. , Hall Holly , Fennel Zachary J. , Gerard-Osbourne Avadney , Houck Jonathan M. , Clark Chloe , Gibson Ann L.
Published: January 2023

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) reference values are based on supine assessments. Little is known regarding the effects of time course shifts in body water compartments after assuming a supine position. The aim of this study was to characterize these effects and provide recommendations regarding the optimal waiting time to perform BIA. Thirty-eight healthy adults underwent BIA via the RJL Quantum Legacy analyzer immediately upon lying down and every 5 minutes for 15 minutes. Differences in resistance (R), reactance (Xc), intracellular (ICW), extracellular (ECW), total body water (TBW), body fat percentage (%BF), and phase angle (PhA) were assessed. There were small but significant increases in R, Xc, and %BF (all p<0.001), as well as small but significant decreases in ICW, ECW, and TBW (all p<0.001) over 15 minutes. No difference was observed for PhA (p=0.065). Average values changed over 15 minutes by +7.14Ω, +1.36Ω, -0.2L, -0.2L, -0.4L, +0.05° and +0.1% for R, Xc, ICW, ECW, TBW, PhA and %BF, respectively. BIA measurements are affected by shifts in body water compartments after assuming a supine position, but these differences lack clinical significance in healthy adults. Technicians working with healthy adults can perform BIA within 15 minutes after participants assume a supine position.
Probing deep lung regions using a new 6-electrode tetrapolar impedance method
Authors: Mobarak Mahjabin , Kadir Muhammad Abdul , Siddique-e Rabbani K
Published: January 2023

Probing deep regions of the lung using electrical impedance is very important considering the need for a low cost and simple technique, particularly for the low and medium income countries. Because of complexity and cost, Electrical Impedance Tomography is not suitable for this envisaged application. The simple Tetrapolar Impedance Measurement (TPIM) technique employing four electrodes is the age old technique for bioelectrical measurements. However, it has its limitations in respect of organ localisation and depth sensitivity using skin surface electrodes. Recently, a new 6-electrode TPIM with two current electrodes but two pairs of appropriately connected potential electrodes positioned on the front and back of the thorax, proposed by one of the authors, came with a promise. However, this work gave a qualitative proposal based on concepts of physics and lacked a quantitative evaluation. In order to evaluate the method quantitatively, the present work employed finite element method based COMSOL Multiphysics software and carried out simulation studies using this new 6-electrode TPIM and compared the results with those from 4-electrode TPIM, with electrodes applied either on the front or at the back of the thorax for the latter. Initially, it carried out a sensitivity distribution study using a simple rectangular volume conductor which showed that the 6-electrode TPIM gives better depth sensitivity throughout the lung region. Next it used a near life like thorax model developed by another of the authors earlier. Using this model, extensive studies were carried out to quantify the overall sensitivity over a target lung region, the contribution of the target lung to the total measured impedance, and several other parameters. Through these studies, the 6-electrode TPIM was established on a stronger footing for probing deep regions of the lungs.
Prenylated Benzophenones from Vismia guianensis Reduced Nematode Growth and Chemotaxis
Authors: Gerald Carresse , Howard Rick-Kia , Adesina Rachael , Hamer Seon , Christian Omar E.
Published: January 2023

Biopesticides are generally considered a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional pesticides. Plant metabolites display a range of pest specific activity ranging from antimicrobial to larvicidal and nematocidal. We herein describe the evaluation of a Guyanese collection of Vismia guianensis (Clusiaceae) for anthelmintic activity. The bioassay-guided evaluation of the hexane extract yielded the new prenylated benzophenone 8,9-epoxyvismiaphenone F (1). The final structures were elucidated based on spectral analysis and comparison to the known metabolite. To evaluate the anthelmintic efficacy of these compounds, Caenorhabditis elegans were exposed to the compounds via a ring assay model. Post-exposure, the numbers of live C. elegans in the compound (middle), bacteria ring were recorded for 3 d, as well as the total number of live worms for each plate. Compound 1 reduced C. elegans’ overall growth and reproduction, suggesting that these prenylated benzophenones may hold some promise as natural pesticides.
Opportunities and constraints in the job search by public health graduates in their opinion
Authors: Rydlewska-Liszkowska Izabela , Zdęba-Mozoła Agnieszka , Strzelecka Agnieszka , Rybarczyk-Szwajkowska Anna
Published: January 2023

Strengthening of the professionalism of public health (PH) specialists may be the response to changes in health care systems. The aim of the study was to explore the potential and restrictions associated with job search by PH graduates, as well as to examine their opinions on their position on the labor market. The survey was conducted using questionnaire (CAWI) on 107 respondents from two medical universities in 2019. The average age of the respondents was 24.5. 5.61% and 17.76% of graduates from both universities respectively declared that the university prepared students well. Most respondents indicate internships, apprenticeships organized by employers (78%) and accepting graduates without professional experience (64%) as employers’ activities which facilitate entering the labor market. Graduates considered the most important obstacles in finding work to be: low interest in PH graduates work, insufficient contacts and relationships and insufficient professional experience. Their competencies do not coincide with the expectations of employers. Employers and universities do not establish sufficient cooperation. Although the dependency between the place of study and the graduates’ perception of the role of university and employers facilitating entry into the labor market and re-selection of the study is not strong, it should not be ignored in shaping education programs.
Occupational lead intoxication from terracotta tiles manufacturing: a case study
Authors: Mocanu Cristina-Manuela
Published: January 2023

We report the case of a 63-year-old terracotta tiles manufacturer who presented with acute abdomen and normocytic anaemia. The patient presented with elevated levels of urinary delta-aminolaevulinic acid without any increase in the levels of urine porphobilinogen or urine coproporphyrin. Detection of elevated lead blood levels (1939 µg/dL one month before hospital admission in the occupational medicine clinic and 44.70 µg/dL at hospital admission, values come from two different laboratories) confirmed the diagnosis of chronic lead poisoning due to occupational exposure. Chelation therapy with D-penicillamine resulted in the improvement of clinical symptoms and lead blood levels. Clinicians should be aware that lead poisoning caused by occupational exposure can still occur sporadically in terracotta tiles manufacturing workers, lead poisoning being a neglected diagnosis in abdominal pain.
An unexpected effect of teleworking: acute clinical manifestations of a hypersensitivity pneumonitis to home parrots
Authors: Mutu Andreea , Belaconi Ionela , Toma Claudia Lucia , Oțelea Marina Ruxandra
Published: January 2023

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is a complex inflammatory and/or fibrotic immune-mediated disease that involves lung parenchyma and small airways caused by an inhaled antigen in susceptible individuals. It is currently the third most frequent interstitial lung disease (ILD) after idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and connective tissue disease with ILD. Diagnosis of HP is often challenging as identifying a causative agent is one of the main arguments in diagnosis along with specific serum IgG testing, suggestive HRCT and/or BAL, and in some cases histopathological findings. However, in up to 60 % of cases, exposure is not identified despite a thorough exposure history. HP is more frequent associated with occupational exposures, up to 20%, but non-occupational environmental exposure remains an important cause. We present a case of bird fancier’s lung that illustrates the challenges and the importance of identifying the culprit antigen as the elimination of exposure in combination with corticosteroids can lead to improvement in lung function, symptoms and leads to a better prognosis and may stop of evolving in sever fibrotic forms of HP.
Occupational medicine and ergonomics: a new paradigm for improved management of ergonomic risks
Authors: Boatcă Maria-Elena , Rașcu Agripina
Published: January 2023

Despite the existence of numerous initiatives and methods to prevent occupational risks and improve workplace well-being, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) remain a major health concern in European countries. Without doubt, the cause of this worrying situation is multifactorial, and various disease management approaches have been proposed in the scientific literature. However, the authors of this article identified a gap that should be considered: collaboration between occupational health professionals and ergonomists would lead to more efficient ergonomic interventions and proper implementation of proactive measures for occupational health and safety. The paper presents a brief literature review and proposes a methodological framework that englobes the cooperation of occupational health professionals and ergonomists for implementation of ergonomic interventions.
Epidemiology of occupational diseases in Romania and Israel: silicosis as a national concern
Authors: Georgeta Popescu Florina , Mihaela Stoia , Ioan Morariu Stelian
Published: January 2023

Background: Historically, silicosis is a disease of miners, but the last decade witnessed outbreaks in occupational settings not traditionally associated with silica exposure. Evidence from other countries may ground awareness and control of re-emergent risks.

Methods: Incident cases of occupational diseases, ranking and trends were analysed within the period 2005-2016 using a cross-national comparative study. Labor force profile and occupation were additional data used to identify similarities and differences between Romania and Israel. The incidence rates for silicosis extracted from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017 were compared to national, continental, and global level.

Results: Between the two countries, the ratio was 1:1 for silicosis, musculoscheletal disorders, hearing loss, and chronic bronchitis. Regarding silicosis, two major diffences were found, namely: the trend of incidence (ascending in Israel; descending in Romania) and the occupational setting (coal miner in Romania; artificial stone worker in Israel). Globally, Romania was among countries with high incidence of silicosis in 2017.

Conclusion: Silicosis was a national issue of concern at the time, but vigilance should continue, given the severity of this disease and the occurrence of other silica-related diseases.
The psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic among the medical-sanitary staff, a new challenge
Authors: Luchian Nicoleta , Popa Maria Valentina , Duceac Mădălina , Gurzu Irina Luciana , Gurzu Bogdan , Handra Claudia , Duceac Letiția Doina
Published: January 2023

The general perception is that the COVID-19 pandemic has been one of the biggest challenges for the health system. While touching every aspect of life, the COVID-19 pandemic has requested a prompt response from the health system and other structures and coordination systems that intervene in daily activity.

The data presented were obtained following the application of a questionnaire to the average care staff of the Pascani Municipal Emergency Hospital, which monitored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their professional activity and emotional state. The results revealed not only feelings of panic, fear, and worry but also determination and stubbornness in the fight against the disease.

The results of the study indicated the adherence of the medical staff to initiatives that promote a holistic approach to the patient, addressing all the patient’s sufferings (physical, psychological, social, or spiritual), as well as finding new ways of relieving, treating, and healing them. The therapeutic act was difficult to fulfill because it had to consider the COVID-19 protocols, modified in dynamics, and applied to patients and staff. The use of complete protective equipment, as well as other adjustments to the working conditions, were perceived as an additional effort.

To achieve this desideratum, teamwork, continuous medical education of the medical staff, and efficient communication between the medical assistant-nurse team with the patient and their relatives were of particular importance. Clear, transparent communication on the patient’s actual clinical condition and prognosis to his family members is essential to avoid and overcome possible conflictual situations.
Hydro-dynamic and geochemical assessment of three successive cutoff meanders of the Danube Delta
Authors: Duţu Laura , Secrieru Dan , Duţu Florin , Catianis Irina , Vasiliu Dan
Published: January 2023

Hydrological and sedimentological data were collected on several cross-sections of both natural and artificial canals of three cutoff meanders (Mahmudia, Dunavăţul de Sus, and Dunavăţul de Jos meanders) of the Sfântu Gheorghe branch at the beginning of June 2017. The hydrological data shows a heterogeneous distribution of water discharges: on the meanders of Mahmudia and Dunavăţul de Jos, most of the liquid flow passes through artificial channels. In the case of the Dunavăţul de Sus meander, the cut meander is the main transport channel for the liquid flow. The statistical analysis of chemical data evidenced an excellent quality of the bottom sediments, with few parameters exceeding the limits (for Ni, Cu, and Cr). These results correlated with the hydrological measurements made on each investigated cross-section.
The pennate benthic diatoms of the sand beach of Kruglaya Bay (the Black Sea)
Authors: Ryabushko Larisa , Begun Аndrey , Barinova Sophia , Lishaev Denis
Published: January 2023

For the first time in the Kruglaya Bay of the Black Sea, 25 taxa of Bacillariophyta from 17 genera were found, three of them were new for the Crimea and the Black Sea Halamphora tenerrima, Amphora tenuissima, and Navicula antonii. Marine (40%), coastalbrackish (32%) and boreal-tropical (32%), arctic-boreal-tropical (24%), boreal and cosmopolitan (20% and 16%, respectively) prevailed. The morphological characteristics of the species in the SEM (scanning electronic microscope) and LM (light microscope), as well as the occurrence, ecology, phytogeography, and general distribution in various regions of the World Ocean are given.
Habitat preferences of small fish species in rivers at the eastern edge of Europe
Authors: Askeyev Arthur , Askeyev Oleg , Askeyev Igor , Monakhov Sergey , Sparks Tim Hugo
Published: January 2023

We studied the probability of occurrence, distribution and abundance of eight small fish species in 512 small rivers at the eastern edge of Europe in a region of high geographical and environmental heterogeneity. Stone loach, common minnow, and gudgeon were recorded in more than 50% of the study sites. Common minnow was the most abundant species, contributing 66% of all captures. Elevation, depth, and width of the river were the main environmental factors influencing the distribution of more than half of the studied fish species. Our research in the eastern edge of Europe shows that fish preferences in terms of probability of occurrence, abundance, and niche breadth for environmental factors can vary greatly, even among closely related species. depth.
In Vitro and in Vivo Studies of the Antiparasitic Effect of Aspirin Against Dactylogyrus Extensus (Monogenea) Invasion in Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Secer Faik Sertel , Urku Cigdem , Yilmaz Bilgenur Harmanşa , Yildiz Hijran Yavuzcan
Published: January 2023

Aspirin is one of the most widely used medications globally as an analgesic and antipyretic drug. Aspirin use as an antiparasitic against fish parasites has never been tested. The parasite Dactylogyrus is considered a serious threat to freshwater aquaculture in relation to considerable losses. The present study is aimed to evaluate the antiparasitic effect of aspirin against Dactylogyrus extensus on Cyprinus carpio and alteration in gill histopathology. In vitro, aspirin exhibited antiparasitic activity with median effective concentration (EC50) values at one and six minutes of 8.137 g/L−1 and 1.629 g/L−1, were assessed for the first time. In vivo antiparasitic efficacy of aspirin to D. extensus was found to be 46.49%. Severe lesion profile was observed in histopathological evaluations of the gills.
The Invasive alien species in the Black Sea coast of Georgia
Authors: Varshanidze Madona , Mgeladze Marina , Gvarishvili Tsiuri , Mikashavidze Eteri , Mikeladze Ramaz , Vadachkoria Paata
Published: January 2023

The aim of the present paper is to compile a list of the invasive alien species on the Black Sea coast of Georgia. The results have been received from an assessment of data collected from different sources. According to recent data, the greatest number of species (36%) has arrived into the Black Sea from the Mediterranean as a consequence of expanding the natural range or coming through the ballast waters. This proportion has increased with the rising water temperatures of the upper layer. Only a few of these species have become abundant and almost none have reached other seas of the Ponto-Caspian. Among these species are the representatives of micro-, phyto- and zooplankton, demersal plankton, macrophytes, zoobenthos and fish.
Nutrient composition and organoleptic assessment of fish Kilishi from Clarias glariepinus and Mormyrus rume
Authors: Ibrahim Abubakar , Adaka Godwin
Published: January 2023

Fish samples from fresh fish, cleaned/washed fish; first stage dried, infusion slurry, and second stage dried, finished product and stored kilishi were analysed. Evaluation was carried out on finished products using a 10-point Hedonic scale. Microbial count and moisture content showed significant differences (ρ < 0.01). Proximate composition of sun and oven dried kilishi (T1) record significantly of higher protein (34.13 ± 0.01), higher ether extract (29.45 ± 0.01), higher nitrogen free extract (17.45 ± 0.35), and have moisture content of (10.92 ± 0.29) despite having highest ash content (5.76 ± 0.69) with crude fibre (2.29 ± 0.23). Kilishi (T2) significantly higher protein (27.13 ± 0.01), higher nitrogen free extract (37.18 ± 0.64), higher ether extract (19.45 ± 0.58), higher ash content (6.09 ± 0.06), despite having higher crude fibre (1.77 ± 0.06) with moisture content of (8.45 ± 0.52); the high proportion of departed groundnut dough mixture resulted in low protein of fish kilishi.
Machine learning and external auditor perception: An analysis for UAE external auditors using technology acceptance model
Authors: Hayek Ahmad Faisal , Noordin Nora Azima , Hussainey Khaled
Published: January 2023

Research Question: Do external auditors in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) perceive the ease of use and usefulness of Machine Learning (ML)? Motivation: This study aims to investigate external auditors' perceptions of the ease of use and usefulness of Machine Learning in auditing in the UAE. In addition, the study intends to examine the difference in perceived ease of use of Machine Learning between local and international audit companies in the UAE. Data: Data for this study were gathered from 63 external auditors working for local and global audit firms in the UAE. The study's population comprises external auditors from national and international audit companies in UAE. Tool: The questionnaire was deployed through an online survey tool. Findings: The results have shown that the findings do not support the idea that there is a different perception of the Perceived Ease of Use of Machine Learning in auditing between local and international audit firms. According to the conclusions of this study, external auditors have a restricted perception of the simplicity of use and utility of Machine Learning. Practical implications: The importance of the findings of such research stems from the lack of research evidence on the perceived ease of use and usefulness of Machine Learning in external auditing in the UAE. As a result, this paper provides new empirical evidence by assessing external auditors' assessments of the usage of Machine Learning in the UAE.
The moderating role of good corporate governance on the relationship between corporate social responsibility and real earnings management
Authors: Khlifi Sawssen , Zouari Ghazi
Published: January 2023

Research Question: Does Good Corporate Governance have a moderating effect on the relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility and Real earnings management? Motivation: Nowadays, the relationship between responsible governance and REM has gained momentum in the accounting and financial studies. In this context, the present work will provide more insight into the relationship between responsible governance factors (GCG, CSR) and REM in the presence of R&D and M&A. Idea: this paper is to examine the moderating effect of good corporate governance (GCG) on the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and real earnings management (REM) level in innovative firms during mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transactions. Data: Using the corporate governance ratio and CSR scores calculated by the Thomson Reuters Eikon ASSET4 database, this study was developed to investigate these issues on a sample of 113 U.S. S&P 500 index firms between 2015 and 2021. This study adopted a sampling process that divides the total sample into two sub-samples according to whether the companies are involved in M&A transactions (test sample) or not (control sample). Tools: Multiple regressions on panel data is used to estimate our hypotheses. Findings: The empirical results reveal that CSR score has a negative and statistically significant effect on REM in highly R&D-intensive firms involved in M&A. Furthermore, the findings suggest that that good corporate governance variable plays a moderating role in the relationships between CSR and REM of these firms but not for the non-merged ones. Contribution: This research contributes to the literature by providing the significant links between some CSR, good corporate governance and the REM level within R&D-intensive firms in the American M&A market.
Gegen Calvin; Contra libellum Calvini - Übersetzt und kommentiert von Uwe Plath, herausgegeben von Wolfgang F. Stammler
Authors: Castellio Sebastian
Published: January 2023

In diesem erstmals ins Deutsche übersetzten Buch spitzt sich die Auseinandersetzung zwischen Castellio und Calvin, die mit dem «Manifest der Toleranz» begonnen hatte, noch weiter zu. In ihm findet sich auch der später berühmt gewordene Satz: «Einen Menschen töten heißt nicht, eine Lehre verteidigen, sondern einen Menschen töten.» Calvin hatte nach der durch ihn veranlassten Verbrennung des «Ketzers» Miguel Servet 1553 in Genf und nach dem Sturm der Entrüstung, der über ihn nach Castellios Kampfschrift De haereticis an sint persequendi (Über Ketzer und wie man mit ihnen verfahren soll) eine Rechtfertigungsschrift verfasst, in der er die Richtigkeit seines Vorgehens begründet. Castellio gab dies die Gelegenheit, sich mit Calvins Argumenten auseinanderzusetzen, und hat diese in seinem Contra libellum Calvini Satz für Satz zerpflückt.
Die Kunst des Zweifelns und Glaubens, des Nichtwissens und Wissens; De arte dubitandi et confidendi, ignorandi et sciendi - Übersetzt von Werner Stingl und kommentiert von Hans-Joachim Pagel,
herausgegeben von Wolfgang F. Stammler
Authors: Castellio Sebastian
Published: January 2023

Dieses Buch gilt als das heimliche Hauptwerk, die summa summarum von Castellios Denken und Schaffen. Anlass für das Buch, das Castellio 1563, in seinem letzten Lebensjahr, schrieb, waren die unsäglichen Wirren und Zerwürfnisse der Reformation, unter denen er auch persönlich zu leiden hatte. Der Streit ging im Wesentlichen um das «richtige» Verständnis der Bibel, die sich dem Leser vielerorts als dunkel und nicht selten auch als widersprüchlich präsentiert. Dies schuf Raum für viele einander ausschließende Deutungen, die zu dogmatischen Abgrenzungen und Verfestigungen führten.
In seinem Buch zeigt Castellio Wege auf, wie man sich aus den Fesseln solch dogmatischer Zwänge zu befreien lernt und damit die Kunst, um die es ihm wesentlich geht: das zu Bezweifelnde von dem zu Glaubenden und das Wissende von dem zu wissen nicht Notwendigen zu unterscheiden und am Ende zu der einem jeden Menschen innewohnenden Wahrheit zu gelangen.
Über Krieg und Frieden. Die Friedensschriften des Erasmus von Rotterdam
- Herausgegeben von Wolfgang F. Stammler, Hans-Joachim Pagel und Theo Stammen. Aus dem Lateinischen von Hans-Joachim Pagel, Wolfgang F. Stammler und Werner Stingl. Mit einführenden Beiträgen von Theo Stammen, Mariano Delgado und Volker Reinhardt
Authors: von Rotterdam Erasmus
Published: January 2023

Krieg und Frieden – dieses Thema hat Erasmus von Rotterdam (ca. 1466–1536) im Verlauf seines Lebens immer wieder in seinen Schriften beschäftigt. Erstaunlich daran ist: Sie klingen gerade heute in Zeiten immer wieder aufbrechender und scheinbar sinnloser Kriege genau so aktuell wie vor 500 Jahren. Die in diesem Band versammelten Friedensschriften des Erasmus lassen auch heute kaum jemanden unberührt. Sie rühren an die einem jeden Menschen innewohnende Sehnsucht nach Versöhnung mit dem scheinbar Unversöhnbaren. Sie sind auf eine geheimnisvolle Weise nicht weniger machtvoll als alles Aufrüsten mit Worten und Waffen: Sie sind als Schrift das wirkmächtig gewordene Gewissen einer im Bann des Bösen sich immer wieder selbst an den Abgrund führenden Welt. In Zeiten wie diesen will dieser Band, der erstmals sämtliche Friedensschriften des Erasmus in sich vereint, dazu beitragen, diese Sehnsucht nach Frieden im Geist des Erasmus aufrecht und lebendig zu erhalten.