bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of radiation dose level and excess lifetime cancer risk associated with dust samples collected from selected nursery and primary schools in Ife Central and Ife East, Osun State, Nigeria.
Authors: Akinlade Grace O. , Maza Danjuma D. , Badmus Zainab , Olaniyi Victor I. , Inuyomi Samuel O. , Alani Yemisi T. , Oyekunle John A. O. , Ojo Joshua O.
Published: January 2024

Primordial radionuclides are, among others, sources of radiation exposure to man. In this study, dust from some 24 nursery and primary schools in Ife Central and Ife East Local Government Areas (LGA) of Osun State were collected and analysed for 238U, 232Th, and 40K using CsI scintillation detector connected to a Universal Radiation Spectrum Analyser (URSA II) for spectrum analysis. From the specific activity concentrations of 238U, 232Th, and 40K, absorbed dose rates and radiological parameters were calculated. The mean activity concentrations of 238U, 232Th, and 40K in Bq/kg were found to be (45±2, 46±2), (56±5,60±5) and (669±76, 744±86) respectively for Ife Central and Ife East LGAs, however, the difference between the data sets from the two communities were not statistically significant. The total mean ± S.D (standard deviation) calculated over the whole study area were as follows; 238U= 45±11; 232Th=58±15 and 40K=702±196. The values of these radionuclides’ activities were higher than the world averages of 33, 45, and 420 for 238U, 232Th, and 40K respectively set by UNSCEAR. The mean absorbed dose rate in the air (in nGy/h) for Ife Central was 85±7 while for Ife East was 92±8. Both values were higher than the world average of 55 nGy/h. Also, the excess lifetime cancer risk was 1.66 × 10-3 for Ife Central and 1.8 × 10-3 for Ife East LGAs. Generally, Ife East LGA has higher activity concentrations than Ife Central LGA although the difference is not statistically significant.
Comparative Study of Polyphenol Profile after Stimulated Post-intestinal Digestion of Raw and Dried Ginger Leaves
Authors: Okpoghono Joel , Jacdonmi Omasan , Igue Udoka B. , Precious Iyeh , Isoje Endurance F. , Okom Solomon U. , Stephen-Onojedje Queen O.
Published: January 2024

The present study aimed to determine bioaccessibility (BA) of polyphenols (PPs) and flavonoids (FLs) compounds of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) leaves extract after simulated gastrointestinal digestion (GID). One hundred grams of Z. officinale leaves (raw and dried) was extracted with 200 mL of distilled water. Determination of PPs and BA index were carried on the extract before digestion (BD) (undigested), post-intestinal digestion without enzymes (PI-DWOEs) and post-intestinal digestion with enzymes (PI-DWEs) using standard methods. The results showed significant decrease in proanthocyanidins (PCs) and anthocyanins (ACs) of dried and raw Z. officinale in PI-DWEs when compared to PCs and ACs level in BD. A total of nine major PPs compounds were detected in raw Z. officinale leaves in BD and PI-DWOEs, whereas eight PPs were detected in PI-DWEs. In PI-DWOEs, sinapinic acid (6.68 ng/mL) was the most prominent whereas p-coumaric (7.74 ng/mL) was the most protuberant in PI-DWEs. The concentration of total PPs were as follows; BD (41.39 ng/mL) > PI-DWEs (13.6 ng/mL) > PI-DWOEs (19.20 ng/mL). In conclusion, after the in vitro GID of the extract, a good BA index was observed, of which some PPs and FLs contents were near to 100%. However, the reason most PPs and FLs in the extract cannot be available or absorbed intact after digestion could be due to the fact that they undergo a series of reactions with intestinal enzymes. Additionally, not all polyphenols are absorbed equally well. Before it is feasible to predict how PPs will be assimilated by cells, they must first be bioaccessible.
Effect of 90 Days Sub-chronic Administration of Omeprazole (A Proton Pump Inhibitor) on Haematological, Biochemical, Antioxidant, Reproductive and Histopathological Parameters in Male and Female Rats
Authors: Akindele Abidemi J. , Oyerinde Adedayo E. , Olatoye Francis J. , Isinkaiye Adetutu O.
Published: January 2024

Despite the widespread use of omeprazole (OME), there are still concerns about its long-term safety and tolerability, especially with long-term or indiscriminate use. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of 90 days sub-chronic administration of OME on haematological, biochemical, antioxidant, reproductive and histopathological parameters in male and female rats. Forty-eight (48) Wistar rats of both sexes were divided into 4 groups of 6 male and 6 female animals each. Group I received 10 mL/kg normal saline, while Groups II – IV received 0.12 mg/kg, 0.57 mg/kg, 2.85 mg/kg of OME respectively for 90 days. At the end of 90 days, 5 mL blood sample was collected, and vital organs were harvested for relevant analyses. In this study, OME did not elicit any significant (P>0.05) change in the body weight or weight of vital organs, but elicited a significant (P<0.05) reduction in sperm count at the supratherapeutic dose (2.85 mg/kg). The supratherapeutic dose of OME produced significant increase in cholesterol (P<0.0001) and LDL (P<0.0001) in female rats. OME did not generally produce a significant change in haematological parameters. OME elicited a significant decrease in CAT (P<0.05) in female and combined animals. Additionally, histopathological presentations of vital organs were generally non-abnormal. From this study, it can be concluded that long term administration of OME is generally safe and tolerable, especially at lower doses. Findings from this study suggest that OME may potentially induce changes in sperm characteristics (in relation to male rats), hepatoxicity, hypercholesteremia, hyperlipidemia and thrombocytosis over a long duration, at higher doses and especially in female animals.
Studies on some engineering properties of dried egg powder reference to its bulk handling
Authors: Adewale Adebayo W. , Aanuoluwa Oladipo A.
Published: January 2024

This study investigated some physicochemical and engineering properties of dried egg powder concerning to its bulk handling with the view to promote its usage. The egg was deshelled to have whole egg, egg white and yolk; oven-dried in convective air at 60 °C (± 1 °C), milled and screened with a sieve size with a mesh size of 500 µm. The physicochemical and engineering properties analyses were carried out using standard procedures. The moisture contents ranged from 2.64 to 2.69%, loose and packed bulk densities ranged between 0.45 g/ml and 0.66g/ml (loose), 0.57 g/ml and 0.71g/ml, (packed). The least gelation concentration (LGC) of egg white and whole egg powder occurred at 10%, and, 12% respectively with egg yolk having poor LGC. The density ratio of egg white, whole egg and egg yolk powder were 92%, 76% and 77%, respectively. Egg white, whole egg and egg yolk powder samples had 7.80, 23.43 and 22.12% porosity, respectively The foaming stability of egg white, whole egg and egg yolk powder are 25.05, 28.41 and 26.01, respectively Similarly, the Carr index and Hausner ratio of dried egg white, whole egg and egg yolk powder are 24.48, 7.29 and 22.80; 1.18, 1.35 and 1.32, respectively indicating the egg powder samples were free-flowing. The emulsifying activity index of egg white, whole egg and dried egg powder are 3.84, 1.78 and 5.96, respectively while emulsifying stability index of the same samples are 503.30, 57.83 and 37.87, respectively. The colour intensity determined for egg white, whole egg and egg yolk powder was 61.75, 41,15 and 52.45, respectively Also, the thermal properties of the samples measured using differential scanning calorimeter ranged between 79.3 ⁰C - 92.8 ⁰C, 106.4 ⁰C - 121.2 ⁰C, 106.2 ⁰C - 122.8 ⁰C, 56.75 J/g - 278.6 J/g, 21.4 ⁰C - 94.743.5 ⁰C, 10.95 J/(gK) - 20.28 J/(gK), 0.50 w/m⁰C - 0.70 5 w/m⁰C, and 0.090 m2/s - 0.094 m2/s for onset temperature, peak temperature, end temperature, enthalpy, temperature range, specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity respectively. The study therefore, provides engineering data about process design, control and bulk handling to extend the usage of dried egg powder samples in food process industries.
Ensemble Algorithm for Simulated Corrosion Data-tentative
Authors: Yinka-Banjo Chika O. , Akinyemi Mary I. , Yama Blessing B.
Published: January 2024

The application of robotics continues to advance and lends itself to various disciplines. Previous work has shown how Markov decision processes can be integrated in an algorithm to handle pipeline inspection. This has been extended to building models and addressing the errors in the model from the data collected. This paper made use of data collected by simulated robots in a pipeline environment, to build an ensemble. Five models were explored and analysed viz: Linear model, Generalised linear model, K-nearest neighbour, Neural network, and Random Forests models. The models were used to explore the responses acquired from the pipeline corrosion data. The performance of each of the ensembles are evaluated based on the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Adjusted R2 and Mean Absolute Error. Model evaluation show that although the averaging ensemble has a better fit (34.56%) than the stacking ensembles (17.22% and 16.98% respectively) considered, it also has the higher RMSE,(81.90) than the stacking models ( 40.91 and 38.53 respectively) forcing the decision maker to make a trade-off between fit and precision.
Investigating the Impacts of Tropospheric Parameters on Received Signal Strength of the Mobile Communication System
Authors: Akinwole Bukola H. , Yussuff Abayomi I.O.
Published: January 2024

Radio communication systems are crucial for information transmission, but they face challenges like interference and fading, which significantly impact network efficiency. Understanding propagation-related issues is crucial for optimizing networks. This study examined the influence of tropospheric parameters on the Received Signal Strength (RSS) of the Globacom communication system in Rivers State. Four tropospheric variables (air temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, and wind speed) are collected from the River State University of Science and Technology (RSUST) Environmental and Climatic Observatory Program. The results of the correlation analysis indicated a direct linear correlation between air temperature and RSS. In contrast, wind speed displayed an indirect relationship, while the remaining parameters demonstrated an inverse linear relationship. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and multiple linear perceptron (MLP) models were developed to accurately predict the impacts of tropospheric parameters on RSS. A supervised-learning three-layered MLP feed-forward neural network was employed, consisting of 10 distinct MLP NN models. The Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) learning algorithm was used in training and validating the MLP NN models. The MLP 4-40-1 model showed an exceptional understanding of the non-linear relationship between the tropospheric parameters and RSS. The MLR model exhibited a weaker correlation coefficient of 0.2164, while the MLP demonstrated a stronger correlation coefficient of 0.7942. Additionally, the MLP 4-40-1 model outperformed the MLR model in terms of Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), achieving an accuracy of 0.2480 RMSE and 12.9963% MAPE, while the MLR model had 1.6880 RMSE and 27.3787% MAPE. These findings highlight the efficiency of the MLP 4-40-1 model in estimating the exact relationship between the tropospheric parameters and the signal strength of the mobile network in Rivers State. The study provides valuable insights into optimizing network design and emphasizes the significance of including tropospheric parameters in enhancing mobile communication performance.
Preliminarily investigation on the In-vitro Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activities of Sorindeia warneckei Extracts
Authors: Osamudiamen Paul M. , Durodola Bamidele , Osamudiamen Fisayo T. , Nwude Davies O. , Aiyelaagbe Olapeju O.
Published: January 2024

Phytochemicals that are naturally occurring in plants are known to be potentially bioactive, having anti-oxidative, antimicrobial and enzyme inhibiting potentials. This study investigated the antimicrobial, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the methanol and dichloromethane extracts of the leaf and stem Sorindeia warneckei. The plant extract showed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, glycosides, coumarins, steroids, alkaloids, anthraquinones and reducing sugars. The antioxidant potential was evaluated using DPPH radical scavenging assay while the antidiabetic activity was evaluated using an in-vitro α-amylase inhibitory assay. The DPPH free radical scavenging activity was expressed in % inhibition with L Ascorbic acid as standard showing IC50 0.69μg/ml with methanol extract while dichloromethane leaf extract having the highest activity at 0.45μg/ml. The α-amylase assay showed that the extracts exhibited potent alpha amylase inhibitory activity in a dose dependent manner with the leaf methanol extract having an IC50 of 2.33µg/L. The antimicrobial screening using the agar diffusion and agar dilution methods against the bacteria isolates Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhirimurium, Escherichia coli and Streptococcus mutans and the fungal isolates Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Rhizopus oligosporus showed a good positive result. Preliminary investigation reveals that Sorindeia warneckei, contain bioactive compounds that possess promising pharmaceutical potentials that could be exploited.
Zero-Inflated Poisson Regression Modeling of Plant Protein Consumption
Authors: David I. J. , Ikwuoche P. O. , Kolo R. L.
Published: January 2024

This research fitted a discrete distribution for modeling count data. Specifically, Zero-Inflated Poisson (ZIP) regression was used to model plant protein consumption by 400 randomly sampled individuals in Wukari. The data was collected by questionnaire. The ZIP regression model was used based on its ability to model data with excess zeros present in the collected data. Variables considered and used for the analysis are Age, Body Mass Index, Blood Pressure, Occupation, Gender, Weight, Height, Body Reaction, and Consumption Class. The parameters of the ZIP model were estimated using the maximum likelihood estimation technique. The model was tested for Goodness of Fit (GoF) using deviance, scaled deviance, Pearson–χ
2 and scaled Pearson–χ
2 statistics. The results obtained showed that Age, Gender, and Reaction were significant at 5%, and the GoF tests revealed that the Zero-Inflated Poisson regression produces a good fit and is a good model for overcoming the overdispersion effect.
Fujiwara’s inequality for synchronous functions and its consequences
Authors: Otachel Zdzisław
Published: January 2024

The theory of inequalities is an essential tool in all fields of the theoretical and practical sciences, especially in statistics and biometrics. Fujiwara’s inequality provides relationships between expected values of products of random variables. Special cases of this inequality include important classical inequalities such as the Cauchy–Schwarz and Chebyshev inequalities.

The purpose of this article is to prove Fujiwara’s inequality in abstract probability spaces with more general assumptions for random variables than those associated with monotonicity as found in the literature. This newly introduced property of random variables will be called synchronicity. As a consequence, we obtain inequalities originated by Chebyshev, Hardy–Littlewood–Pólya and Jensen–Mercer under new conditions.

The results are illustrated by some examples constructed for specific probability measures and specific random variables. In biometrics, the obtained inequalities can be used wherever there is a need to compare the characteristics of experimental data based on means or moments, and the data can be modeled using functions that are synchronous or convex.
Functional relationships between yield of maize (Zea mays L.) and its components
Authors: Szulc Piotr , Ambroży-Deręgowska Katarzyna , Kardasz Przemysław , Nowaczyk Rafał , Neumann Małgorzata
Published: January 2024

A field experiment was carried out in the years 2017–2019 on the fields of the Experimental Station in Chrząstowo, belonging to the Research Centre for Cultivar Testing in Słupia Wielka. It was carried out for 3 years in the same split-plot design with 2 experimental factors in 3 field replicates. The following factors were studied: A – 1st order factor – maize variety: A1 – ES Bombastic (FAO 230-240) – single cross hybrid (SC), A2 – ES Abakus (FAO 230-240) – three-way cross hybrid (TC, stay-green), A3 – ES Metronom (FAO 240) – single cross hybrid (SC, stay-green + roots power). B – 2nd order factor – type of nitrogen fertilizer: B1 – control (without N application), B2 – ammonium nitrate, B3 – urea, B4 – ammonium nitrate + N-Lock, B5 – urea + N-Lock, B6 – Super N-46, B7 – UltraGran stabilo. In this study, we investigated whether there was a functional relationship between maize grain yield and ear number, TSW (thousand-seed weight), and seed number per ear. Additionally, we investigated whether there was a functional relationship between maize grain yield and ear number, TSW, and seed number per ear for each type of fertilization in a given study year, as well as for each type of fertilization regardless of year.
Structure identification for a linearly structured covariance matrix: part II
Authors: Mieldzioc Adam
Published: January 2024

Covariance matrices with a linear structure are widely used in multivariate analysis. The choice of covariance structure can be made from a set of possible linear structures. As a result, the most appropriate structure is determined by minimizing the discrepancy function. This paper is a continuation of previous work on identifying linear structures with an entropy loss function as a discrepancy function. We present extensive simulation studies on the correctness of identification with the assumed pentagonal banded Toeplitz structure.
Estimation methods for a linearly structured covariance matrix
Authors: Mieldzioc Adam
Published: January 2024

Covariance matrices with a linear structure are widely used in multivariate analysis. The choice of the most appropriate covariance structure can be made from a class of possible linear structures. Once we have made the choice, an important question is how we can estimate the covariance matrix for a given covariance structure. This article describes methods used to estimate the structured covariance matrix, and indicates the advantages and disadvantages of the selected methods.
Family Firm Succession Plans of Students in the Visegrad Countries
Authors: Gubik Andrea S.
Published: January 2024

The recognition of the social and economic role of entrepreneurship has brought to the fore the question of what influences entrepreneurial ideas and how entrepreneurship can be encouraged. One possible route to an entrepreneurial career is to take over the family business. This article focuses on the pre-succession period and examines the factors determining students’ decisions to take over the family business, using the sample of Visegrad countries from the 2018 GUESSS (Global University Entrepreneurial Spirit Students’ Survey) database. Our results show that some factors influencing the family business’s succession are company-specific (such as the size and performance of the company). Others depend on the students’ commitment (ownership, involvement in the work) and individual characteristics (attitudes, self-efficacy) and are also determined by the perception of the student’s environment about the succession.
Assessing the Vulnerability to Human Trafficking Amidst Migration Patterns: A Case Study of Kazakhstan
Authors: Khamzin Amangeldy , Khamzina Zhanna , Nurmanbetkyzy Zhumakhan , Kenzhibekova Elmira , Buribayev Yermek
Published: January 2024

Kazakhstan, with its open borders with CIS nations and significant migration flows, emerges as a key origin, transit, and destination point in human trafficking. While acknowledging Kazakhstan’s modest progress in combating human trafficking, this study aims to develop comprehensive proposals for enhancing the protection of trafficking victims’ rights in Kazakhstan. It seeks to identify legal and enforcement gaps, analyze available social and legal protections, and address key issues in victim rights protection. The study aligns with the burgeoning academic discourse on human trafficking, which has significantly influenced policy and methodological approaches in estimating trafficking prevalence. It encompasses research focusing on defining human trafficking, factors contributing to its incidence, and evaluating the effectiveness of countermeasures. Addressing a relatively nascent area of research in Kazakhstan’s context, this study will enhance existing knowledge and contribute to developing effective anti-trafficking strategies within the country. The overall assessment underscores a lack of consistency in Kazakhstan’s approach to its mandate to curtail human trafficking. Despite this, the study presents a promising path forward, concluding that with the introduction of a dedicated anti-human trafficking law and strategic organizational reforms, substantial advancements could be realized to reinforce legal accountability and prevent such exploitation.
Sectors on the Czech Labour Market
Authors: Bílková Diana
Published: January 2024

This paper deals with the situation on the Czech labour market from the point of view of the sectors, namely Agriculture and Mining Sector, Manufacturing Industry, Energy, Construction Sector, Service Sector Requiring Mostly Personal Contact, Service Sector Rather without Personal Contact and Service Sector Usually Provided by the Public Sector. Wages and salaries together constitute the investigated variable. The main aim is not only to capture the wage and salary level in individual sectors, but an equally important objective is the construction of models of the entire distribution of wages and salaries in individual sectors. Special attention is paid to employees of individual sectors, separated into men and women, whose remuneration for work is at the level of the minimum wage. An important aim is to determine the most frequent occupations of the CZ-ISCO classification in individual distinguished sectors, while this classification codes are considered for the first three digits. Important attention is paid to the representation of foreign nationals in the position of employees in individual sectors, separated into men and women. Three-parametric lognormal curves are used in the construction of wage and salary distribution models. The amount of the minimum gross monthly wage valid on January 1 of the previous year represented the beginning of the curves, the other two parameters were estimated using the maximum likelihood method. Accuracy of lognormal curves is evaluated using Akaike and Bayes information criterion. The results show that the highest levels of wages and salaries are mainly achieved by men in the Service Sector Rather without Personal Contact. In all five monitored sectors, the level of wages and salaries of women is lower than the level of wages and salaries of men. The overall distribution of women’s wages and salaries is more skewed, with higher skewness, but with lower level and variability compared to the overall distribution of men’s wages and salaries.
Factors Influencing Adherence to New Vaccine Recommendations - The Experience of Covid-19
Authors: Șovăilă Silvia , Purcărea Adrian , Neculau Andrea Elena , Gavris Claudia
Published: January 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical role of medical doctors in vaccine recommendation adherence. This study aimed to explore the factors influencing adherence to COVID-19 vaccine recommendations among Romanian medical doctors, one year into the vaccination campaign. We conducted a cross-sectional voluntary survey, and data from 94 physician respondents were analysed. We found that specialty, fear of adverse effects, and inflexible thinking were significant factors influencing vaccine recommendation adherence. General practitioners have higher adherence, while surgical specialists are more reluctant. Political and religious views don't associate with adherence to vaccine recommendations. These findings emphasize the importance of educational interventions to improve adherence and mitigate fear among medical doctors.
The Role of Biomarkers in Distinguishing Infectious From Non-Infectious Diseases
Authors: Melinte Violeta , Radu Maria-Adelina , Văcăroiu Maria Cristina , Călinoiu Amalia , Rusu Adina , Cismaru Ioana Miriana , Tudor Alexandra-Daniela , Gheorghiţă Valeriu
Published: January 2024

Background. The use of C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) as guiding biomarkers in treating severe infections could improve the use of antibiotics. Biomarker dynamics are more reliable than single values in predicting sepsis when making the diagnosis and evaluating the response to antibiotic therapy. Both CRP and PCT used protocols have to be consistent with the clinical context and patient populations.

Objectives: reviewing the use of PCT and CRP in various clinical contexts and the patient population

Sources. We analyzed the most recent studies of these biomarkers for antimicrobial stewardship, including meta-analyses and original trials.

Content. According to several studies, critically ill patients who get antibiotic treatment under the guidance of CRP and PCT see a decrease in antibiotic exposure and related adverse effects. When patients are hospitalized in intensive care units (ICUs), CRP and PCT can be used to distinguish between viral and non-infectious causes of systemic inflammation. In septic patients, CRP levels are reliable to show a high negative predictive value (NPV), especially on day 1 of ICU admission. Consequently, CRP levels decrease during therapy with appropriate antibiotics in the next 3 days.

Implication. In addition to other clinical and laboratory parameters, CRP and PCT provide information about the risk of the bacterial infection worsening or improving under appropriate treatment. These improve antibiotic treatment decisions, allowing individualized treatment regimens with reduced overall antibiotic exposure.
Persistent Anterior Thoracalgia in a Patient with Mediastinal - Pulmonary Sarcoidosis
Authors: Mălăescu Andreea-Nicoleta , Mihălţan Florin Dumitru , Constantin Ancuţa Alina
Published: January 2024

Sarcoidosis is a systemic condition characterized by the formation of non-caseating granulomas in any organ or tissue, with a predominant impact on the lungs and intrathoracic lymph nodes(1). The heterogeneity of the disease is reflected in the broad possibilities of the clinical and paraclinical evolution, which can range from the incidental identification of the disease in an asymptomatic patient to the progressive chronic involvement of the affected organs. Commonly, sarcoidosis initially manifests through nonspecific respiratory symptoms, characterized by dry cough, dyspnea, chest pain, and fatigue(2,3). Generally, it is considered that this condition occurs in individuals with a susceptible genetic background, exposed to certain environmental factors or antigens that remain unknown, despite numerous existing hypotheses(4).

Cardiac involvement in sarcoidosis has a significant negative impact on prognosis. Although this location of the disease is predominantly silent, 5% of cases present with dilated or restrictive cardiomyopathy, progressive heart failure, high-grade atrioventricular blocks, and ventricular arrhythmias(5).

The authors present the case of a young patient who, although at the onset of the disease, exhibited a typical clinical and imaging profile of sarcoidosis, myocardial involvement - a rare localization of this pathology - was detected during the course of the condition. Patients with sarcoidosis may have normal spirometry, may present with a restrictive syndrome (similar to diffuse interstitial lung diseases), or an obstructive syndrome, secondary to the involvement of small bronchi and bronchial distortions caused by the disease, often with an unfavorable prognosis.
Management of Severe Persistent Asthma Stage 4 Gina Associated with Multiple Pulmonary Complications
Authors: Cehan Teona , Mantea Ana-Maria , Costache Alexandru-Dan , Mitu Florin
Published: January 2024

We present the case of a 42-year-old female patient, known with the diagnosis of severe persistent l asthma stage 3 Gina since 2012, for which she is on treatment with Formoterol/Budesonid (Symbicort) 160mcg/4.5 mcg 1 puff/12 h, inhaler, daily and Salbutamol (Ventolin) 100 mcg, 2 puffs as needed, maximum 6 puffs/24 h, inhaler, who is being treated for exacerbation of respiratory symptoms. It is important to mention the onset of asthma - at the age of 1 year, with rapidly progressive evolution towards the severe stage and association of multiple pulmonary complications. In order to determine the evolutionary stage of the disease and the therapeutic management, spirometry, DLCO examination and native thoraco-pulmonary CT was performed, the patient presenting an important atopic field: multiallergy-environmental factors and iodine. After the establishment of the therapeutic step and the degree of severity, a complex, multimodal treatment was initiated, with a relatively good evolution and prognosis, provided the patient's compliance.
Isoniazid-Resistant Tuberculosis - A Series of Clinical Cases
Authors: Butnaru Teodora , Mihălţan Florin Dumitru , Bivolaru Sorin , Constantin Ancuţa
Published: January 2024

The emergence of M. tuberculosis strains resistant to Isoniazid (INH) and Rifampicin (RIF), the two most potent drugs of first-line anti-TB treatment is termed multidrug drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis has been a severe medical and epidemic problem worldwide.

We present a series of clinical cases consisting of two patients diagnosed with isoniazid-resistant tuberculosis. Histopathological examination supports the diagnosis of tuberculous granulomas. The pathology molecular examination revealed the presence of Isoniazid-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis 1, 2 via the following mutation c.947G>A; p. Gly316Asp. Isoniazid-resistance is associated with mutations in the furA-katG and fabG1-inhA operons and in the ahpC gene. 64% of the isoniazid-resistance phenotypes were associated with the kat G 315 mutation worldwide. The second most common mutation is inhA-15, reported in 19% of the Isoniazid-resistant isolates. The significant association between the two mutations, inhA c-15 and kat G 315 respectively, and the high-level resistance is of interest in the interpretation of current and future molecular diagnostic testing, as an early prediction of the level of Isoniazid-resistance is essential to decide the benefit of high-dose Isoniazid use.
Multimorbidity in a Patient with COPD: Hard to Overcome Challenges
Authors: Movilă Vera , Donica Alexandra Lori , Moaleș Andreea , Cozma Corina Dima , Mitu Florin
Published: January 2024

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) frequently suffer from multimorbidity, defined as the presence of 2 or more comorbidities in a patient, the most common of which are cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, lung cancer, diabetes, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, anxiety and depression. In patients with COPD, comorbidities can develop syndemically, that is, they can evolve simultaneously in response to common risk factors and through common pathogenetic mechanisms. The authors present the case of a patient with multimorbidity, with a history of a common risk factor (smoking) for some of the associated comorbidities and challenges occurred in his therapeutic approach.
Performance study of the M/M(a,b)/1/MWV queuing system with types of breakdowns
Authors: Lidiya P. , Julia Rose Mary K.
Published: January 2024

This paper analyses the M/M(a,b)/1/MWV queuing model with various types of breakdowns. During peak times, the system has breakdown due to server unavailability. The model considers system with two types of breakdowns. The system may breakdown in two different ways during busy and working vacation stages. Customer arrives to the system with parameter λv
which follows Poisson distribution and server provides service in regular busy period with parameter µrb
and under the multiple working vacations it provides service with parameter µwv
with exponential distribution. In this model batches of customers are served under General Bulk Service Rule. The system may breakdown at any time. The breakdown that occurs during working vacation is denoted as βv

1 and the breakdown during busy state is denoted as βv

2. The steady-state equation, the performance of measures for the system and particular cases of described model are derived. Finally, a real life example demonstrated the validity of the model in a proper way.
Some new fixed point results in Intuitionistic fuzzy cone-b metric spaces
Authors: Kapoor S. , Gupta V. , Saini A.
Published: January 2024

The foremost target of the proposed work focuses on establishing fixed point theorems for the new concept named Intuitionistic fuzzy cone-b metric space (in short IFCbMS). Various definitions like compatible mappings, weakly-compatible maps (WC maps) and E.A. property are also used to prove new results for IFCbMS. The proofs of fixed points for FMS, IFMS, NFMS in the setting of E.A. property are taken as base for this research. Examples mentioned in the paper are increasing the importance of the research done. An application is also given to show the importance of the result proved. The application of this paper leads to the solution of an integral equation in context of implicit functions.
Accelerated Carbonation of Binders Containing SCM at High CO2 Concentration
Authors: Rivera Alexander Oliva , Malaga Katarina , Mueller Urs
Published: January 2024

Accelerated carbonation of recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) could be an efficient way to reduce the carbon footprint. High CO2-concentration under optimal relative humidity could accelerate the CO2 binding capacity of the hydrated cement paste in the RCA. The latter is the topic of this paper. The study looks into the forced carbonation of crushed cement pastes as a basis to understand the CO2 uptake in relation to various binders containing supplementary cementitious materials (SCM) such as fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS). Samples include three cement pastes: ordinary Portland cement, substitution rate of 30 % FA and 50 % GGBS respectively at a water/binder ratio of 0.45. All binders were graded to 0/2, 2/4 and 4/8 mm fraction sizes and preconditioned before exposed to CO2 concentration of 10 % under controlled temperature at 20 °C and 65 % RH. All tested binders presented a high CO2 uptake within the first hours of exposure with clear differences concerning the fraction sizes and the composition. The phase content before and after carbonation was observed by X-ray diffraction and the portlandite and calcite were quantified by thermogravimetric analyses and their derivative curves for fraction size 4/8 mm.
Relationship between Chloride Migration, Bulk Electrical Conductivity and Formation Factor of Blended Cement Pastes
Authors: Ranger Maxime , Hasholt Marianne Tange
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the links between the non-steady-state chloride migration coefficient, the bulk electrical conductivity and the formation factor of blended cement paste specimens. 18 different binders were tested: two Portland cements (low- and high-alkali) in combination with limestone filler, fly ash, calcined clay, two biomass ashes, sewage sludge ash and crushed brick, as well as two Portland composite cements. In addition, the latter and the low-alkali Portland cement were tested in concrete as well for comparison.

Mixes with high-alkali cement showed better resistance to chloride transport, and the effect of supplementary cementitious materials was found to be strongly linked with their reactivity. Moreover, the results showed a clear correlation of the migration coefficient with the bulk electrical conductivity and, to a lesser extent, with the formation factor. However, these relationships are strongly influenced by the methods used to determine conductivities and they need to be validated for higher maturities. Finally, the results suggested a fairly good correspondence between the results obtained on paste and concrete.
Towards the Application of Mesostructures in 3D Concrete Printing – Evaluating Load-bearing Performance
Authors: Westerlind Helena , Vargas José Hernández , Silfwerbrand Johan
Published: January 2024

In concrete structures, material performance is typically determined at the level of the concrete mix (the microscale) and the overall shape and dimensions of a building element (the macroscale). However, recent developments in the field of 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) are demonstrating that the design of concrete now also can take place at a previously impossible intermediate scale involving the shaping and placement of the material at the level of the printing nozzle (the mesoscale). By focusing directly on the design of print paths, advanced surface effects and internal porous material distributions can be achieved that significantly affect the aesthetic experience and structural performance of 3DCP structures. This ability to design the distribution of concrete according to local architectural, structural, and functional design criteria is an especially interesting application of 3DCP that could be exploited to customise material performance while at the same time optimising material use and reducing the self-weight of building elements. This paper specifically examines how four different three-dimensional print patterns produce distinct material structures at the mesoscale (mesostructures) and presents an experimental procedure for evaluating their load-bearing capacity.
The Use of Slag in Accelerated Shotcrete for Rock Support: A Pilot Study on the Influence on the Early Compressive Strength
Authors: Brodd Elin , Sjölander Andreas , Östlund Lina
Published: January 2024

Today, the world is facing an enormous challenge where the emissions of greenhouse gases must be reduced significantly to stop the increasing mean temperature. For the construction industry, this challenge means that structures must be designed more carefully, and materials must be used and produced more efficiently. Concrete is one of the most widely used materials, and cement production alone contributes to around 8 % of the world’s total CO2 emissions. This paper presents a pilot study in which part of the cement clinker content in accelerated shotcrete is replaced with ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS). Shotcrete is widely used as part of the rock support for tunnels in hard rock and has a large cement content. Thus, the environmental impact must be reduced significantly to meet future demands. However, introducing GGBS will slow down strength development, which is a crucial part of shotcrete. Thus, this paper aims to investigate the early strength development, i.e., after one and seven days. The results show that an average compressive strength of 18 MPa can be reached after 24 hours when 35 % of the cement clinker content is replaced with GGBS. Finally, some important topics for further studies are pointed out.
Impact of Built-up Areas Surrounding the International Baghdad Airport on Aviation Meteorology
Authors: Al-Jiboori Monim H. , Mohowes Zeina T.
Published: January 2024

This study focuses on the development of urbanization around International Baghdad Airport and its impact on aviation meteorology in terms of the vertical changes of air temperature and wind. Based on the results published in [Zeina, Al-Jiboori 2023], built-up areas were calculated using the satellite images of Landsat in ArcGIS 10.7 software in the month of July in five-year intervals between 1985 and 2020: 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020. The result shows that surface air temperature has the lowest value, at 34.85 °C, in 1985, and the highest one, at 39.55 °C, in 2020. Variations in wind shear were also observed in 1990, 2005 and 2015 with a value of 0.06 s-1, while 2000 and 2020 both had a value of 0.054 s-1. In representing the relationship between the extracted areas and their meteorological parameters, we found a weak positive relationship between Built-up Index (BUI) area and air temperature, and a significant positive correlation between BUI areas and wind shear.
Socially Dangerous Sexual Paraphilias: Description of the Problem
Authors: Požarskis Anatolijs , Požarska Rita
Published: January 2024

This article deals with the study of the prevalence, aetiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of paraphilias such as sexual sadism, exhibitionism, voyeurism, and autoerotic asphyxiation. The aim of this study was to summarise all available literature on socially dangerous paraphilias. Based on the PRISMA guidelines, the current review brings together all the existing literature on socially dangerous paraphilias. Socially dangerous paraphilias may be caused by biological, psychological, and social factors and are treated with antiandrogens, gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors as well as psychotherapy. High-quality placebo-controlled studies on the treatment of socially dangerous paraphilias are lacking. Clinicians should be aware that the prevalence of socially dangerous paraphilias is not negligible and that people with deviant sexual urges should be encouraged to seek professional help before committing a crime or a self-injurious act. More extensive epidemiological studies are required to clarify the actual prevalence of socially dangerous paraphilias in the population and methods of their treatment alongside with destigmatisation of patients with paraphilias.
Nutrition and Bone Health Among Postmenopausal Latvian Women
Authors: Aumeistere Līva , Siksna Inese , Neimane Lolita Vija , Kampara Māra , Ļubina Olga , Ciproviča Inga
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of yoghurt consumption on bone health among postmenopausal Latvian women. In the study, 52 participants were divided into two groups — control (n = 26) and experimental group (n = 26). Both study groups were able to consume a self-selected diet, but the experimental group had to additionally consume 175 g of plain organic milk yoghurt on a daily basis for eight weeks. 72-hour food diaries were obtained prior to and after the eight-week experiment. To evaluate bone mass density, a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was performed prior to the eight-week experiment. 25-OH-Vitamin D and calcium blood serum levels were evaluated prior to and after the eight-week experiment. DEXA revealed osteoporotic values at the lumbar spine or femoral neck region for ten participants. The 25-OH-Vitamin D blood serum level among the participants was sufficient (30.0–44.9 ng·ml−1). Calcium blood serum levels were within reference values (2.1–2.6 mmol·l−1) for all participants. No significant difference was found regarding yogurt consumption and calcium blood serum levels (p = 0.400). Although the majority of participants noted milk and milk product consumption on a daily basis, the daily calcium intake only reached the lowest recommended value for adults (800 mg). Vitamin D intake from food and dietary supplements significantly varied (0 to 302.08 µg a day). For the prevention of osteoporosis, it is necessary to promote the consumption of fermented milk products and vitamin D supplementation among postmenopausal women.
Influence of Mucosal Tissue Thickness on Peri-Implant Bone Stability: Retrospective Radiological Study
Authors: Apse Ingus Arnolds , Lācis Rihards , Gončarova Alīna , Šalms Ģirts , Akota Ilze , Neimane Laura
Published: January 2024

Gradual bone loss around the implants is an ongoing concern. Mucosal tissue thickness is considered as a contributing factor that influences bone remodelling after implantation. It has been suggested that tissue thickness thinner than 2.5 mm may contribute to more peri-implant bone loss, eventually affecting implant bone stability. Measuring mucosal thickness prior to surgery may be a predictor of the bone changes and could modify the surgical methods. In this study mucosal tissue thickness was measured retrospectively on radiographs before implant insertion, one year and at least three years after implantation. Within the limits of this study, no influence of initial mucosal tissue thickness on long term peri-implant bone stability was found.
Structure of Collembola Communities in the Urban Gradient of Rīga City
Authors: Juceviča Edīte , Grīna Vendija , Melecis Viesturs
Published: January 2024

The world’s increasing urbanisation and the deterioration of human quality of life in major cities have redirected the focus of urban planning toward green infrastructure improvement and, as a result, increased the research of urban ecosystems. This article analyses changes in the structure of Collembola communities in soil in the urban-rural gradient in the city of Rīga, Latvia. Soil samples were collected in 21 randomly selected sample plots within six urban habitats: street edge grasslands, downtown parks, private houses, cemetery grasslands, and urban and suburban forests. Soil samples were taken at the end of September/beginning of October 2017. A steel soil corer (D 50 mm, surface area 19.6 cm2, depth 10 cm) was used. In each plot, three soil samples were taken with a soil corer. Collembola were extracted from pooled samples from each habitat using a Berlese-Tullgren extractor. Nonmetric Multidimensional Scaling (NMS) ordination of Collembola data in sample plots yielded three statistically significant axes (p < 0.01). The first axis explaining 49% of the data variation coincided with the urban-rural gradient. Species richness declined towards the city centre, while the Simpson’s Dominance Index increased. The species Mesaphorura macrochaeta predominates in the central habitats, while Parisotoma notabilis dominates in suburban forests.
miR159c Expression Under Nanoparticle Stress in Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) Calli
Authors: Kokina Inese , Jermaļonoka Marija , Plaksenkova Ilona
Published: January 2024

The rapid development of nanotechnologies has raised great interest in the use of engineered nanoparticles (NPs) and their release in the environment. The interaction between nanoparticles and crops is currently a topical problem, as nanoparticles are capable to enter the soil, plant cells and to translocate in plants. MicroRNA (miRNA) is an endogenous small RNA with a significant regulatory role in plants, cleaving or repressing the translation of a particular mRNA in response to multiple biotic and abiotic factors. In this work, the expression of miR159c in Linum usitatissimum L. calli cultures caused by various concentrations of Fe3O4 nanoparticles was studied. The obtained results showed an increase in miR159c expression with a decrease in the concentration of Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The results obtained are important in explaining the potential of nanoparticle utilisation to provide plant immunity responses.