bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Perception of the Generational Assessment of Selected Social Behaviour – A Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Stanimir Agnieszka
Published: April 2021

Research background: The search for stable factors affecting latent variables that reflect the assessment of quality of life in three areas of an individual’s functioning is the background of the study. In the analysis was assumed the existence of the relationships between QoL assessment and subjective factors related to socio-economic aspects.

Purpose: The aim of the study was to recognize assessments in given areas of transferring subjective satisfaction with a level of social factors and checking the stability of the assumed relationship between factors describing three areas of functioning: household, country of residence, EU. The next goal was to compare the results obtained in the study of natural relationships between factors with the given systems of these factors in the areas of an individual’s functioning. Characteristics of behaviour were compared in three generations of Europeans. The application objective of the study was to indicate the usefulness of SEM in the research problem.

Research methodology: The Standard Eurobarometer, autumn 2018, provided data describing adults from the generations Y, X, and BB. Structural equation models were used.

Results: The effect of the used method is the determination of the factors that affect the assessments made by three European Generations in the areas of an individual’s functioning: direct, close and further.

Novelty: The analysis showed the usefulness of structural equation models to achieve the goals of the study.
Identification of Outliers in High Density Areas with the Use of a Quantile Regression Model
Authors: Szkutnik Tomasz
Published: April 2021

Research background: The study exemplifies the issues presented in the international trade data, which can affect the efficiency of customs controls in clearance systems.

Purpose: The purpose of the research is to find a method of identifying suspicious transactions in datasets, where the risk factor is related to the overvaluation of goods covered under export procedure and data that are affected by areas of extra high density.

Research methodology: The proposed methodology is two-step. Firstly, to eliminate areas of extra high density, with the use of a sampling scheme set reciprocally to the intensity point pattern, defined by means of a two-dimensional kernel estimator. Next, based on sampled data, a quantile regression model is built. Moreover, the inference about the type of model is provided by using the Khmaladze test.

Results: The example highlights the benefits of the use of the two-step approach in model building. The proposed methodology provides the foundation for the inference by means of the Khmaladze test. The reliable threshold for selecting the suspicious transactions can be built.

Novelty: The paper addresses some of the previously identified issues in a two-dimensional intensity assessment. Moreover, the proposed methodology based on quantile regression and the Khmaladze test provides the foundation for the customs gap measure in export data.
The Relationship Between Consumer Behaviour, Attitudes and Acceptance of Public Policy Tools Advancing Sustainable Food Consumption
Authors: Wielicka-Regulska Anna
Published: April 2021

Research background: The great importance of food consumption for the sustainability of food systems means that active public policy in this area can have a lot of positive effects.

Purpose: The purpose of the paper is to present the challenges facing the agri-food sector and to study consumer attitudes towards seasonal and organic food, local food, urban agriculture, food waste and meat consumption, carbon footprints and how these attitudes relate to the acceptance of public policy tools (a tax on junk food, a green public procurement, a deposit on plastic bottles, a tax-free donation of food to public benefit organisations, a fee for wasted food for large retailers) that could transform food distribution and consumption.

Research methodology: cardinality tables and interdependence analysis using Pearson’s linear correlation coefficient

Results: The study revealed that most respondents buy seasonal food when possible and limit meat consumption to some extent. They are rarely influenced by the impact of food on the climate. Most people are in favour of offering dishes based on local food in public institutions with catering (hospitals, schools, prisons, etc.). Most respondents were negative about gardening for food production. Involvement in local food was associated with a higher acceptance for green public procurement and higher VAT on junk food.

Novelty: Both the range of considered policy instruments and the analysis of their acceptance in the context of selected behaviours and attitudes have not been previously studied and make up a new area of inquiry essential in the debate on sustainable food consumption.
Green Marketing: The Environmentally-Friendly Attributes of Products and Decision to Purchase
Authors: Witek Lucyna
Published: April 2021

Research background: Currently the degradation of the environment which consumers contribute to is an important problem. Purchase behavior plays a key role as it is associated with the choice of products by consumers who are increasingly taking into account environmentally-friendly criteria. The effective implementation of marketing strategies that take into account the principles of sustainable development is possible under the condition of changes in the behavior of purchasers.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the importance of environmentally-friendly attributes for product purchasers.

Research methodology: The research was conducted among 650 Polish consumers. An online survey method was applied.

Results: The study confirms that environmentally-friendly attributes do not play a primary role while choosing products. Hedonic, health and economic benefits take place before environmental benefits. For women, eco-friendly attributes were more important when choosing products, while men were more driven by economic and functional benefits. Young people are hedonists guided by taste and aesthetics, and they do not pay much attention to the environmentally-friendly attributes of products. In turn, older respondents are economical and pragmatic buyers for whom energy efficiency and product durability are of particular importance.

Novelty: The research adds the value as for understanding the phenomenon of the green purchase gap, especially in developing countries where positive attitudes towards green products are not translated into real purchasing behavior. The research quotes some implication for marketing, especially for marketing communication strategies.
Renamings and a Condition-free Formalization of Kronecker’s Construction
Authors: Schwarzweller Christoph
Published: April 2021

In [7], [9], [10] we presented a formalization of Kronecker’s construction of a field extension E for a field F in which a given polynomial p ∈ F [X]\F has a root [5], [6], [3]. A drawback of our formalization was that it works only for polynomial-disjoint fields, that is for fields F with F ∩ F [X] = ∅. The main purpose of Kronecker’s construction is that by induction one gets a field extension of F in which p splits into linear factors. For our formalization this means that the constructed field extension E again has to be polynomial-disjoint.

In this article, by means of Mizar system [2], [1], we first analyze whether our formalization can be extended that way. Using the field of polynomials over F with degree smaller than the degree of p to construct the field extension E does not work: In this case E is polynomial-disjoint if and only if p is linear. Using F [X]/
 one can show that for F = ℚ and F = ℤ
n
the constructed field extension E is again polynomial-disjoint, so that in particular algebraic number fields can be handled.

For the general case we then introduce renamings of sets X as injective functions f with dom(f) = X and rng(f) ∩ (X ∪ Z) = ∅ for an arbitrary set Z. This, finally, allows to construct a field extension E of an arbitrary field F in which a given polynomial p ∈ F [X]\F splits into linear factors. Note, however, that to prove the existence of renamings we had to rely on the axiom of choice.
Refined Finiteness and Degree Properties in Graphs
Authors: Koch Sebastian
Published: April 2021

In this article the finiteness of graphs is refined and the minimal and maximal degree of graphs are formalized in the Mizar system [3], based on the formalization of graphs in [4].
Formalization of Quasilattices
Authors: Kulesza Dominik , Grabowski Adam
Published: April 2021

The main aim of this article is to introduce formally one of the generalizations of lattices, namely quasilattices, which can be obtained from the axiomatization of the former class by certain weakening of ordinary absorption laws. We show propositions QLT-1 to QLT-7 from [15], presenting also some short variants of corresponding axiom systems. Some of the results were proven in the Mizar [1], [2] system with the help of Prover9 [14] proof assistant.
Decline of Black Alder Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn. along the Narewka River in the Białowieża Forest District
Authors: Malewski Tadeusz , Topor Robert , Nowakowska Justyna Anna , Oszako Tomasz
Published: April 2021

Black Alder Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn. is an important tree commonly growing in Poland. Alders are actinorhizal plants that play an important ecological role in riparian ecosystems through atmospheric nitrogen fixation, filtration and purification of waterlogged soils as well as providing a refuge for terrestrial and aquatic organisms thus helping to stabilize stream banks. Black alder used to be considered a very pest and disease resistant species but, the situation changed in 2000, when an unprecedented decline of Alders was observed in Poland. In the Białowieża Forest District, this decline has been observed on wet meadow habitats and along rivers or watercourses.

Currently, there are several hypotheses explaining Alder dieback, among them climatic changes and Phytophthora infections. In terms of climate, Black Alder requires a high atmospheric humidity during all phases of its reproductive cycle. It tolerates neither long-term summer flooding nor a significant decrease in the groundwater level. In terms of pests, oomycete pathogens of the genus Phytophthora are the most destructive plant pathogens known and many of them are present in forests and nurseries all over Europe.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the health of Black Alder along the Narewka River in the Białowieża Forest District. Selected areas were monitored in 2012 and 2018, but no relationship between drought and alder health was found. A preliminary analysis of soil and water samples by real time PCR revealed the presence of two Phytophthora species: P. alni and P. cactorum. Further and more detailed research is required to elucidate the role of these pathogens in Alder dieback.
Relationship between Canine Lymphocyte AgNOR Counts and Haematological Indices of Health
Authors: Antia R. E. , Ogunsola J.
Published: April 2021

A modified agyrophil technique was applied to peripheral blood smears to determine the mean AgNOR counts (MAC) of lymphocytes and ultimately assess the state of the lymphoid system in various clinical conditions of dogs. Fifty dogs, from clinically normal to pets with leukaemia, presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, were recruited. Blood smears from each dog were stained with routine Romanowsky and modified agyrophil stains. Signalment, clinical diagnoses and hematologic parameters of the dogs were related to the MAC. An AgNOR proliferative index (AgPI) — percentage of lymphocytes with 3 or more AgNORs, was determined, and correlated with MAC. The statistical significance was determined at P < 0.05. MAC ranged from 1.17 in clinically healthy patients to 6.00 in leukaemic patients. The MAC was 2.00 in patients (n = 26) with lymphocyte counts within reference intervals (900—2400 per microliter); 2.23 in patients (n = 4) with lymphopenia; 2.18 in patients with lymphocytosis (n = 18) and 4.73 in patients (n = 4) with lymphocytic leukemia. Also, the MAC was 2.00 in non-anemic dogs while it was 2.47, 2.49 and 3.06 in patients with mild, moderate and severe anaemia, respectively. The MAC correlated strongly with AgPI (r = 0.91). The ancillary AgNOR technique provides a cheaper, more rapid and sensitive tool than routine lymphocyte counts in assessing the state of lymphoid proliferation in a variety of conditions in the dog.
Detection of Residues of Antimicrobial Compounds in Eggs by the Rapid Screening Methods
Authors: Krišová M. , Kožárová I.
Published: April 2021

Eggs belong to the most frequently consumed products of animal origin worldwide, and therefore the safety of eggs is a substantiated issue. Conventional poultry rearing involves the use of antimicrobials added to their feed or potable water particularly for disease treatment, however, in some countries also for the prevention of diseases, promotion of growth and better utilisation of the feed. Thus, effective control of residues of such substances in eggs is very important for the protection of the public health. The aim of this study was to detect the potential presence of antimicrobial residues in fresh hen eggs using commercially available rapid screening methods (Premi®Test and EXP Ampulle test) and compare the results of both of these tests. We examined 22 samples randomly selected from among 66 samples purchased in 11 European countries. We respected the procedures as supplied by the manufacturers of the tests together with their respective test kits. The examination of eggs by the Premi®Test did not detect the presence of antimicrobial residues in the samples, while the EXP Ampulle test provided 8 positive and 6 dubious results. Our results allowed us to conclude that the EXP Ampulle appears to be more sensitive and allows one to carry out more effective control of the presence of antimicrobial residues in hen eggs intended for human consumption.
Comparison of Equivalent Doses Obtained with Various post-IR IRSL Dating Protocols of K-Feldspar
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Li Sheng-Hua , Wang Xulong , Hao Qingzhen , Hu Guiming , Chen Yiwei
Published: April 2021

Five dating protocols with post-infrared infrared (IR) stimulated luminescence signals (i.e. pIRIR) were performed on the K-feldspar of loess samples. Two of them were the single-aliquot regenerative-dose protocol (SAR) with two-step pIRIR stimulation, with the first IR stimulation at 50°C or 200°C and the second at 290°C (pIR50IR290, pIR200IR290). Two of them were the SAR protocols with five-step or six-step IR stimulation at multiple elevated temperatures to 250°C or 300°C (MET-pIRIR250, MET-pIRIR300). The final one was the multiple-aliquot regenerative-dose (MAR) protocol with the MET-pIRIR300 signal, together with a 500°C heat treatment administered before the test dose (‘MAR with heat’). The results show that when the equivalent dose (De) of the sample was less than 500 Gy, all of the protocols gave consistent results; however, when De exceeded 750 Gy, all of the SAR protocols underestimated De. The pIR50IR290 signal had the highest degree of underestimation, while the pIR200IR290, MET-pIRIR250 and MET-pIRIR300 signals had similar De values and similar degrees of underestimation. Possible reasons for the SAR De underestimation are discussed. We suggest that only the ‘MAR with heat’ protocol is suitable for samples with De exceeding 750 Gy.
Positive, Negative or Not at All? What Drives Consumers to Post (Accurate) Product Reviews?
Authors: Moe Wendy W. , Schweidel David A.
Published: April 2021

Online consumer reviews are a convenient, valuable pool of information for potential buyers as well as for marketers. But how reliable is this information? A closer look at the motives behind posted product reviews shows that online opinions should indeed be interpreted with care. The study results reveal that the composition of the customer base can exert a substantial influence on the posted online opinion. Due to selection bias and adjustment effects over time, the content posted may not necessarily reflect the customer base’s overall opinion of the product. Individuals were more likely to submit ratings when they were either very satisfied or not satisfied. In addition, consumers were more likely to post an opinion when the ratings already posted were more positive. Highly engaged consumers who frequently post their opinions tend to be more negative than less-engaged individuals. Even though decision-makers can gain valuable insights from the analysis of this pool of information, they should not rely on this source exclusively.
Covid 19 between globalisation, mobility and complexity
Authors: Figus Alessandro , de Serio Ludovico
Published: April 2021

In the article, the authors analyse how Covid 19 have influenced and modified the dynamics generated by the globalization processes in the last decades, in comparison with other recent global crises. Globalization is here treated as a complex phenomenon, that led to major changes in every aspect of modern society, on a large scale and on a small one. To this purpose, an in-depth analysis of the current socio-economic scenario in both developed and developing countries is carried out, with a focus on the data regarding the sectors that were most influenced by the pandemic outbreak.
HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS comparison of the chemical composition of flowers from two Arnica species grown in Poland
Authors: Kimel Katarzyna , Krauze-Baranowska Mirosława , Godlewska Sylwia , Pobłocka-Olech Loretta
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Arnica flowers are used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry. According to EMA only endangered Arnica montana provides the medicinal plant material. However, some European countries also allow the use of A. chamissonis flowers, whose chemical composition is not known in detail.

Objective: The aim of the study was to recognize and compare the chemical composition of A. montana and A. chamissonis flowers collected from plants cultivated in Poland.

Methods: HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS analysis comprised phenolic acids, flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones.

Results: Thirty eight flavonoids and phenolic acids were recognized and quantified, with patuletin, 6-methoxykaempferol and quercetin present only in A. chamissonis flowers. Moreover, helenalin and acetyl-dihydrohelenalin were identified.

Conclusion:
A. montana and A. chamissonis flowers from plants grown in Poland possess similar composition of simple phenols and polyphenols, present in concentration slightly higher in A. montana. Helenalin and dihydrohelenalin esters identified in arnica flowers from various regions of Europe were not detected.
In vivo immuno - and angiomodulatory effects of Aloe arborescens folii recentis extractum siccum (AAES) in mice
Authors: Zdanowski Robert , Bałan Barbara J. , Schönknecht Karina , Skopiński Piotr , Stelmasiak Marta , Skopińska-Różewska Ewa , Lewicki Sławomir
Published: April 2021

Introduction

AAES is a powdered form of Biostymina, herbal medicinal product of Phytopharm Klęka S.A., a water extract of Aloe arborescens Mill. leaves. Aloe arborescens Mill. (woody aloe, tree-like aloe) is known to have several traditional medicinal properties including anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral and antimicrobial activity.

Objective

The aim of this work was to study the in vivo effect of AAES on cellular (leukocyte-induced cutaneous angiogenesis, LIA test, and proliferative response to PHA) and humoral (anti-SRBC antibody response) immunity in mice.

Methods

Balb/c mice were fed AAES from 0.5 to 75 mg/kg body mass for seven days before grafting their splenocytes intradermally to F1 (Balb/cxC3H) recipients (LIA test). Neovascular reaction was evaluated 72 h later in dissection microscope. Spleen cell cultures were incubated with 0.5, 1 and 2 μg/ml of PHA. After 48 h of incubation, tritiated thymidine was added. After further 24 h, cells were harvested (Skatron) and incorporation of tritiated thymidine was measured using Beta-scintillation counter. Balb/c mice were fed for 7 days with AAES, then immunized intraperitoneally with 5% SRBC suspension and 7 days later the antibody response was measured with hemagglutination test.

Results

Neovascular reaction was significantly higher in groups grafted with splenocytes collected from all AAES fed donors than from the controls. The proliferation of splenocytes taken from mice fed AAES at doses ranging from 0.5 mg/kg to 7.5 mg/kg was stimulated in all cultures. Suppression of proliferation was observed in cell cultures derived from mice fed with higher doses of AAES. Stimulation of anti-SRBC antibody production was seen in mice fed both 2.5 and 7.5 mg/kg dose of AAES.

Conclusion

Powdered form of Biostymina (AAES) might be useful in the treatment of patients with ischaemia of tissues and organs (myocardial infarction, stroke, necrosis) and in deficiency in the production of immune cells and growth factors (infections, chronic wound healing, ulceration and bone fusion).
Vegetation period of genetic resources of flax (Linum usitatissimumL.)
Authors: Silska Grażyna
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Institute of Natural Fibres and Medicinal Plants (INF&MP) is involved in gathering and evaluation of genetic resources of flax (Linum usitatissimumL.), hemp (Cannabis sativaL.) and medicinal plants, because Poland has signed the Convention on Biological Diversity. Field trials were carried out in 1990–2001 in the Experimental Station in Wojciechów located in Opolskie region. The research material was accessions of genetic resources from the collection of flax, stored at the Institute of Plant Breeding and Acclimatization Institute in Radzików near Warsaw.

Objective

The aim of the publication was to evaluate the following biological features of flax: time of beginning of flowering and vegetation period to yellow maturity.

Methods

The characteristics data for flax accessions are presented according to the methodology of development of the International Flax Database. Each flax accessions from the world collection of flax genetic resources received one of the following assessments of two vegetation periods: very short, short, medium, long and very long. Descriptors of biological features of flax were used, presented in “List of flax descriptors (L. usitatissimumL.)” edited by Janka Nozkova, published in 2011. These descriptors are used to develop the International Flax Database, which in turn helps in the rapid evaluation of theL. usitatissimumgenetic resource collection. Carrying out a detailed characterization of biological features ofL. usitatissimumaccessions is very helpful for breeders in selecting genetic material for breeding new varieties of flax.

Results

The following results were obtained from the time of the beginning of flowering and the vegetation period to yellow maturity. Time of beginning of flowering was the following: very short – 0 accessions, short – 97 accessions, medium – 20 accessions, long – 2 accessions and very long – 0 accessions of flax. The genotypes tested were characterized by the following results in terms of vegetation period from sowing to yellow maturity: very short – 0, short – 37, medium – 62, long – 0 and very long – 0 accessions of flax.

Conclusions

Time of beginning of flowering and the vegetation period to yellow maturity shall be revalorised to the International Flax Database for thoseL. usitatissimumaccessions that did not receive the same assessment of the biological features tested in the two or three years of the study.
Introduction
Authors: Szabó Levente T. , Berszán István
Published: April 2021

In the first part of the Introduction Levente T. Szabó introduces Hungarian Studies Yearbook revealing its purpose to serve as a new scholarly hub and focal point for Hungarian studies oriented both towards methodologically challenging experiences and an evidence-based, resource-oriented Hungarian studies. In the second part of the introduction István Berszán presents the thematic issue “Kinetic Spaces – the Challenge of Complexity by Practical Rhythms”, which initiates interdisciplinary research into the rhythm of practices and occurrences in order to open fields of orientation that are larger than recent paradigmatic spaces.
‘IF’: Planning, Research and Co-creation of an Existential Installation-performance
Authors: Sebestyén Rita
Published: April 2021

In her article “‘IF’: Planning, Research and Co-creation of an Existential Installation-performance” Rita Sebestyén offers an account of the research period and performances of the experimental, action-research based and interdisciplinary performance ‘IF’. The installation-performance was co-created by a group of Norwegian, Danish, Swedish and Hungarian artists, and conceived and produced for an international audience. ‘IF’ poses a series of existential questions throughout four interactive installations that allow the audience to interact and become co-creators of the performance, together with the performer-facilitator. Using biology, anthropology, mathematics, elements of gamification, sociology and futurology, this performance is a cross-disciplinary and cross-genre experience, and its research cycles are of both scientific and artistic interest, as the author points it out.
Genetics and Ethics: “Do not Go Alone”!
Authors: Falus András
Published: April 2021

In his article “Genetics and ethics: ‘Do not go alone’”! András Falus presents genomics as a network science triggering an entirely new trend in contemporary biology. Based on the advent of molecular biology the complete sequence of human and other genomes has been determined and since all information is available on internet-based databanks, the huge mass of data is being analysed by advanced methods of informatics. The author is focusing on the upcoming ethical aspect of genetics and genomics, then, in the second part of the article he answers the questions of the editor concerning the genetic approach to ethics and ethical approach to genetics.
The glocal as scale and provocation in Hungarian Studies
Authors: Fazakas Emese , Szabó Levente T.
Published: April 2021

This introduction reconstructs the arguments of the editors and contributors of a thematic cluster of the Hungarian Studies Yearbook that focuses on the possible methodological uses of the glocal both as a scale and as a methodological challenge for contemporary Hungarian studies.
Digital Genealogy
Authors: Fenyvesi Anna
Published: April 2021

This paper demonstrates how methods of digital genealogy can be used to trace personal histories in innovative ways to uncover potentially significant details of settlement history where information in historical sources is scarce. It uses the example of a mid-18th century Roman Catholic settler and his family in Szentes, a small town on the Great Hungarian Plain, at a time when mass migration into this region was happening from overpopulated regions of the Kingdom of Hungary. Records of the settlement history of the town are meagre at best, but this important aspect of social history can be supplemented through meticulous research into the Family Search genealogy database.
Loanwords and Expressions Denoting Hues in Old Hungarian
Authors: Fazakas Emese
Published: April 2021

The study presents loanwords and expressions referring to hues in the old Hungarian language. It relays mostly on data collected from the Historical Dictionary of Hungarian Language from Transylvania (SzT.), and it also uses data from the Hungarian Etymological Dictionary (TESz.). A number of studies have been written about the Hungarian colour terms presenting usage and distribution, yet only few of them dealt with their etymology and their historical usage. The present paper focuses on the etymology of terms denoting hues, and aims to present reasons for naming and using these loan colour terms. The study investigates whether these terms appearing in old Transylvanian texts were loanwords, loan expressions or they were simply used as a result of linguistic interference.
Two Relative Contact Phenomena in the Language use of Hungarians in Transylvania
Authors: Benő Attila
Published: April 2021

The paper discusses two peculiarities of language use generally taken to be relative contact phenomena in case of Hungarian in bilingual, non-dominant context: the preference of analytical linguistic variants and non-standard plural forms. The data come from two sociolinguistic surveys conducted in Transylvania (in 1996 and 2009). The surveys were carried out with the participation of a representative sample of speakers. The 1996 survey was conducted with a quota sample (N = 216 in Romania and N = 107 in Hungary) and the 2009 sample with a representative sample (N = 4058 in Romania). The hypothesis that Romanian-dominant bilingual speakers tend to exhibit relative contact phenomena to a larger extent was supported with respect to these two issues. The results show that the occurrence of these phenomena is determined both by the language competence of the dominant language and by the regional characteristics of the bilingualism. The results confirm the possibility that the spoken-language properties under discussion are relative contact phenomena.
Kettlebell Training for Female Ballet Dancers: Effects on Lower Limb Power and Body Balance
Authors: Grigoletto Davide , Marcolin Giuseppe , Borgatti Elena , Zonin Fabio , Steele James , Gentil Paulo , Galvão Luan , Paoli Antonio
Published: April 2021

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of 5 month kettlebell-based training on jumping performance, balance, blood pressure and heart rate in female classical ballet dancers. It was a clinical trial study with 23 female dancers (age = 21.74 ± 3.1 years; body height = 168.22 ± 5.12 cm; body mass = 53.69 ± 5.91 kg) took part in the study. Participants were divided into two groups: a kettlebell group (n = 13), that followed a commercial kettlebell training protocol named the “Simple & Sinister protocol”, and a traditional dance training control group (n = 10). In the kettlebell group, kettlebell training completely replaced the jump and balance section of dance classes. Both groups performed balance and jumping tests before and after the training period. Blood pressure and the heart rate were also measured. The kettlebell group showed significant improvements in the balance tests (antero-posterior and medio-lateral oscillation) with both legs and eyes open as well as in all types of jump exercises (unrotated: +39.13%, p < 0.005; with a turnout: +53.15%, p < 0.005), while maximum and minimum blood pressure and the heart rate decreased significantly (max: -7.90%, p < 0.05; min: -9.86%, p < 0.05; Heart rate: -17.07%, p < 0.01). The results for the control group were non-significant for any variable. Comparison between groups showed significant differences for all variables analyzed, with greater improvements for the kettlebell group. Our results suggest that specific kettlebell training could be effective in improving jump performance and balance in classical dancers to a significantly greater degree compared to classical dance training.
Caffeine Increases Muscle Performance During a Bench Press Training Session
Authors: Giráldez-Costas Verónica , González-García Jaime , Lara Beatriz , Coso Juan Del , Wilk Michal , Salinero Juan José
Published: April 2021

Previous investigations have established the ergogenic effect of caffeine on maximal muscle strength, power output and strength-endurance. However, these investigations used testing protocols that do not replicate the structure of a regular strength training session. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of acute caffeine ingestion on muscle performance during a simulated velocity-based training workout. In a double-blind, randomized and counterbalanced experiment, 12 participants performed two experimental trials after ingesting 3 mg/kg/b.m. of caffeine or a placebo. The trials consisted of 4 sets of 8 repetitions of the bench press exercise at 70% of their one-repetition maximum performed at maximal velocity. Bar velocity was recorded with a rotatory encoder and force, power output and work were calculated. Regarding the whole workout, caffeine increased mean bar velocity (+7.8%; p=0.002), peak bar velocity (+8.7%; p=0.006), mean force (+1.5%; p=0.002), mean power output (+10.1%; p=0.003) and peak power output (+8.2%; p=0.004) when compared to the placebo. The total work performed in the caffeine trial was superior to the placebo trial (7.01±2.36 vs 6.55±2.20 kJ, p=0.001). These results suggest that the acute intake of 3 mg/kg/b.m. of caffeine before a velocity-based strength workout increased muscle performance and the total work performed across the whole training session. Thus, caffeine can be considered as an effective strategy to enhance muscle performance during the bench press training sessions.
Genetics of Muscle Stiffness, Muscle Elasticity and Explosive Strength
Authors: Maciejewska-Skrendo Agnieszka , Leźnicka Katarzyna , Leońska-Duniec Agata , Wilk Michal , Filip Aleksandra , Cięszczyk Paweł , Sawczuk Marek
Published: April 2021

Muscle stiffness, muscle elasticity and explosive strength are the main components of athletes’ performance and they show a sex-based as well as ethnicity variation. Muscle stiffness is thought to be one of the risk factors associated with sports injuries and is less common in females than in males. These observations may be explained by circulating levels of sex hormones and their specific receptors. It has been shown that higher levels of estrogen are associated with lower muscle stiffness responsible for suppression of collagen synthesis. It is thought that these properties, at least in part, depend on genetic factors. Particularly, the gene encoding estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) is one of the candidates that may be associated with muscle stiffness. Muscle elasticity increases with aging and there is evidence suggesting that titin (encoded by the TTN gene), a protein that is expressed in cardiac and skeletal muscles, is one of the factors responsible for elastic properties of the muscles. Mutations in the TTN gene result in some types of muscular dystrophy or cardiomyopathy. In this context, TTN may be regarded as a promising candidate for studying the elastic properties of muscles in athletes. The physiological background of explosive strength depends not only on the muscle architecture and muscle fiber composition, but also on the central nervous system and functionality of neuromuscular units. These properties are, at least partly, genetically determined. In this context, the ACTN3 gene code for α-actinin 3 has been widely researched.
Privacy and Proportionality: Examining Mass Electronic Surveillance under Article 8 and the Fourth Amendment
Authors: Carpenter Christine
Published: April 2021

An individual citizen’s right to privacy has found extensive protection in the modern democratic state. However, with the increase of technological innovation and new kinds of threats, democratic states must grapple with balancing a problem that can never be wholly solved—governments seeking to create the optimal degree of security inevitably conflicts with citizens’ optimal degree of privacy. This article examines one vehicle through which governments have prioritized national security at the expense of individual privacy: mass electronic surveillance. Employing the case study method, this article compares three cases where mass electronic surveillance measures were challenged before the European Court of Human Rights under Article 8 against four cases where such measures were challenged in the U.S. judicial system under the Fourth Amendment. This article seeks to determine how the treatment of privacy infringements created by mass electronic surveillance differs when examined in these two different privacy regimes. I argue the Strasbourg Court’s use of what is known in the literature as the “proportionality analysis” provoked by Article 8(2) allows for more substantial protections of privacy rights in Europe than under the Fourth Amendment in the U.S..
Victims of crime and harmonization of the legal regulation of their rights in the EU and the Czech Republic
Authors: Malacka Michal
Published: April 2021

This study reflect the international sources of law and documents relating to the protection and support of crime victims from the global and European point of view following the global and European Union concept and the importance of the Directive 2012/29/EU of the European Parliament and of the European Council of 25 October 2012. Establishing minimum rules on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime. This study will also introduce the most important sources of law and international context related to the victims of crime as an existing category of victims in general. The EU member states are obliged to reflect the views and needs of victims, to respect human dignity and the right to privacy, enable the possibility to receive fair compensation from the perpetrator or other sources, and to provide victims with material, medical, psychological and social assistance from state and non-governmental organizations. Concerning the other documents, what is also essential for victims to access their rights and influenced national Victims of Crime Acts is especially the Council Directive 2004/80/EC of 29 April 2004, relating to compensation to crime victims and Directive 2012/29/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 establishing minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime to be mentioned.
Giant Retroperitoneal Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma: A Case Report
Authors: Dimitrov Dobromir D.
Published: April 2021

Retroperitoneal soft tissue sarcomas comprise a relatively rare entity with incidence rates of less than 1% of all malignancies. The surgical treatment of these tumors is challenging. We present a case of a 70-year-old patient who underwent radical surgery at the Department of Surgical Oncology at the University Hospital in Pleven for giant dedifferentiated liposarcoma. The patient presented with cachexia, anemia, dull abdominal pain, and a huge abdominal mass. After ultrasound and CT, the tumor was assessed as resectable. The removed tumor mass weighed 5.7 kg. Nowadays, complete resection of such tumors remains the most important predictive factor for local recurrence and overall survival.
Meningeal Melanocytoma of the Middle Cranial Fossa: A Case Report
Authors: Valkov Iliya V. , Mladenovski Milan N.
Published: April 2021

The term meningeal melanocytoma was first introduced by Limas and Tio in 1972 to figure out lesions of the central nervous system that, under light microscope view, have meningioma characteristics, and ultrastructural characteristics of melanocyte neoplasm, respectively. Meningeal melanocytomas (MM) represent 0.06-0.1% of brain tumors. The annual incidence is about 1 per 10 million. This type of neoplasm is rarely seen in clinical practice. A few cases have been reported in the literature. A 62-year-old man was admitted, complaining of trigeminal pain in the area of the I and II branches of CN V on the left of his face. He underwent two surgeries in a row. First, malignant melanoma, and then meningeal melanocytoma were histologically verified. Neurological examination demonstrated hyperpigmented left iris, neuralgic pain in I and II branches of CN V, latent central hemiparesis and hemihypesthesia for the right extremities, positive Babinski reflex on the right, positive axial pathological reflexes, and partial motor aphasia.

Primary intracranial meningeal melanocytoma is difficult to diagnose preoperatively because of the tumor’s non-specific clinical and neuroradiological characteristics. So electron microscopy and immunohistochemical additional diagnostic confirmation are mandatory. Immunohistochemical findings - the presence of S-100 protein, vimentin, and antimelanocyte antigen HMB-45, no reaction for EMA and ultrastructural (melanosomes in different maturation, contacts type zonula adherens) are all in favour of the histopathological diagnosis of MM. Meningeal melanocytoma is a slow-growing tumor, biologically benign, and attempts for surgical radicalism are recommended. It is not entirely clear whether a malignant transformation of these tumors is possible. The role of chemotherapy also remains questionable and has not been documented as effective.
Presence of EBV and HPV Infection in Lymphoepithelioma-Like Carcinoma in the Uterine Cervix
Authors: Strateva Diana S. , Yordanov Yordan D. , Malkodanski Ivan Tsv. , Mihaylov Ilia I.
Published: April 2021

Squamous cell carcinoma is the cause in most cases of cervical cancer. A very unusual subtype of squamous cell carcinoma is lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma, found in less than 1% of the neoplasm processes in the uterine cervix. Histologically it looks like a large nest of big-sized tumor cells with large vascular nuclei. Immunohistochemical markers used for LELC are p63, p16, human leukocyte antigen-D related (HLA-DR), and B-cell lymphoma 2. Even though it has aggressive morphological features, it has a better prognosis than most carcinoma cases of the uterine cervix. The condition is treatable, with a hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy as the most common method. There are rare cases of pelvic lymph node dissection reported in the literature.

There is data that lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma is associated with the Ebstein-Barr virus and human papillomavirus. According to a survey by Tseng et al. and Chao et al., EBV is associated with LELC in Asian women, while HPV is associated with Caucasian women.

Due to the small number of studies found in the literature, no conclusion can be drawn concerning the said viruses’ involvement in Asian and Caucasian patients.
Use of Platelet-Rich Fibrin for Jaw Osteonecrosis: A Case Report
Authors: Kanazirska Petya G. , Hristamyan-Cilev Mery A. , Kanarinski Nikolay D.
Published: April 2021

We present tooth extraction in a patient treated with bisphosphonates (BPs) for cancer and at risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw. The administration of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is an innovative method of promoting wound healing that allows hermetic closure at the surgical site after extraction without mucoperiosteal flaps or periosteal release sections. Here, we describe the case of a 60-year-old man who had osteonecrosis of the upper jaw and underwent surgery for prostate cancer in 2012. In 2014, bone metastases were detected, and the patient was treated with Xgeva and Zometa: a two-year therapy with Xgeva, followed by treatment with Zometa. In 2018, after extraction of a tooth in the upper right jaw, a healing wound of extraction and stripping of the maxillary bone occurred. The patient was admitted for hospital treatment and underwent surgery to remove the osteonecrotic lesion, sequester and administer PRF (platelet-rich fibrin), and sew tightly. As a result of the treatment, complete re-epithelialization of the wound without infection occurred. Generally, in more invasive surgical procedures, the use of PRF to close the wells after extraction in patients receiving BP appears to be a promising alternative. Additional clinical trials will be essential t to clarify the effectiveness of PRF in preventing BP-related osteonecrosis after tooth extraction.
Sectra 3 D Human Body Visualization Table Use in Brain Abscess Diagnostics in a Child: A Case Report
Authors: Mirchev Stefan I. , Valkov Alexandar V. , Milkov Mario P. , Nikolov Georgi N. , Duhlenski Boris I. , Yildiz Malik
Published: April 2021

Brain abscess in children is a rare and particularly severe complication of acute otitis media/Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM). Presenting a child with brain abscess, which was developed as a pre-surgical complication of CSOM with cholesteatoma. Visualization of the abscess on a 3-D Sectra Visualization table was performed.

An 8-year-old child who often suffered from untreated runny ear was admitted in a critical state. The history and clinical and laboratory data suggested severe chronic inflammation of the right middle ear. The examination did not reveal signs of meningeal irritation, increased intracranial pressure, excitation, sensory disorders, or focal symptoms.

Surgical treatment was performed as a radical mastoidectomy with the removal of a cholesteatoma. After a three-day uneventful postoperative period, the patient worsened. A CT scan visualized a brain abscess in the right temporal lobe. A craniotomy was performed by opening the brain abscess, with an aspiration of pus, and lavage of the cavity. After surgical and conservative treatment, the child was discharged clinically healthy on the fourteenth day. Processing the image check-ups on a Sectra 3-D visualization table helped determine the size and localization of the abscess and the choice of surgical access.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Burnout in Healthcare Professionals During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ilias Ioannis , Mantziou Vassiliki , Vamvakas Efstratios , Kampisiouli Efstathia , Theodorakopoulou Maria , Vrettou Chariklia , Douka Evangelia , Vassiliou Alice G. , Orfanos Stylianos , Kotanidou Anastasia , Dimopoulou Ioanna
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Healthcare professionals who are directly involved in the diagnosis, treatment, and general care of patients with SARS-CoV-2 are at risk of developing adverse psychological reactions. A cross-sectional study of healthcare professionals aimed to determine the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the mental health of healthcare professionals in two of the largest referral hospitals in Athens, Greece.

Methods

The study was conducted in the two largest SARS-CoV-2 referral hospitals in Athens, Greece. An assessment and the interrelationship of post-traumatic stress disorder, using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised [IES-R]) and burnout, using the Maslach Burnout Inventory [MBI]) was carried out.

Results

A total of 162 subjects were enrolled in the study. Fifty-six (35%) had an IES-R score > 33, suggesting post-traumatic stress disorder. Forty-nine (30%) had an MBI score > 27. Seventy-five (46%) had a personal accomplishment score of < 33 and 46 (28%) had a depersonalization score >10. Stepwise backward logistic regression revealed that the only independent variable that was retained regarding the presence of post-traumatic stress disorder was the emotional exhaustion score of the MBI (at a cut-off of 24 in this scale, the 95% CI of the odds ratio for the presence of post-traumatic stress disorder was 1.077-1.173).

Conclusions

In this sample of first-line Greek healthcare professionals against SARS-CoV-2, most of them were proven to be quite resilient to this challenge. One-third of them had post-traumatic stress disorder, which depended on their degree of emotional exhaustion. Healthcare professionals, as represented by this study, performed their duties without feeling helpless and developing adverse psychological reactions.