bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ta-C hardness effect on wear properties under MoDTC contained boundary lubrication
Authors: Tokoroyama T. , Wang S. , Umehara N. , Murashima M. , Lee W.-Y.
Published: July 2023

The wear acceleration of hydrogenated amorphous carbon under lubrication with molybdenum dithiocarbamate (MoDTC) is one of the problems to apply it to engine components. It is assumed that using high hardness tetrahedral amorphous carbon (ta-C) can easily solve the wear problem regardless of chemical wear by Mo degradable materials, however, we still do not know the effect of ta-C coating hardness on wear of itself with MoDTC. Because, amount and structure of Mo degradable material is assumed to relate contact pressure. It suggested that even if ta-C coating has high hardness, the wear amount changes with normal load. In this study, we prepared four different hardness ta-C coatings (such as approximately 18.2, 22.1, 46.6, and 53.6 GPa) and conducted friction tests to clarify the effect of ta-C hardness on wear characteristics under boundary lubrication with MoDTC. Eventually, chemical analysis (Raman, EDS and XPS) was conducted to reveal the chemical spices existence of tribofilm for three hardness ta-Cs, especially for 22.1 GPa as a representative low hardness ta-C coating. As a result, the wear suppression was achieved when the contact pressure was higher than 200 MPa regardless of the coating hardness.
FUS Unveiled in Mitochondrial DNA Repair and Targeted Ligase-1 Expression Rescues Repair-Defects in FUS-Linked Neurodegeneration
Authors: Hegde Muralidhar , Manohar Kodavati , Wang Haibo , Gao Wenting , Mitra Joy , Hegde Pavana , Provasek Vincent , Rao Vikas , Vedula Indira , Zhang Aijun , Mitra Sankar , Tomkinson Alan , Bosch Ludo Van Den , Hamilton Dale
Published: July 2023

This study establishes the physiological role of Fused in Sarcoma (FUS) in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) repair and highlights its implications to the pathogenesis of FUS-associated neurodegenerative diseases such as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Endogenous FUS interacts with and recruits mtDNA Ligase IIIα (mtLig3) to DNA damage sites within mitochondria, a relationship essential for maintaining mtDNA repair and integrity in healthy cells. Using ALS patient-derived FUS mutant cell lines, a transgenic mouse model, and human autopsy samples, we discovered that compromised FUS functionality hinders mtLig3's repair role, resulting in increased mtDNA damage and mutations. These alterations cause various manifestations of mitochondrial dysfunction, particularly under stress conditions relevant to disease pathology. Importantly, rectifying FUS mutations in patient-derived induced pluripotent cells (iPSCs) preserves mtDNA integrity. Similarly, targeted introduction of human DNA Ligase 1 restores repair mechanisms and mitochondrial activity in FUS mutant cells, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach. Our findings unveil FUS's critical role in mitochondrial health and mtDNA repair, offering valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying mitochondrial dysfunction in FUS-associated neurodegeneration.
Symptomatic Intraventricular Choroid Plexus Cysts. Illustrative Case and Systematic Review
Authors: Stanishevskiy Artem , Gavrilov Gaspar , Svistov Dmitriy , Cherebillo Vladislav , Kurnukhina Mariia
Published: July 2023

Background.
Although choroid plexus cysts are a frequent incidental neuroimaging finding, symptomatic ones are rare – series of more than five cases are hard to find. In the absence of high-volume studies, there are no generally accepted algorithms for diagnosis and treatment for this pathology. Proposed surgical techniques include microsurgical excision or fenestration and endoscopic excision or fenestration with or without additional shunting. No definitive conclusions exist about the superiority of a certain technique. Here we introduce an illustrative case of a patient with a symptomatic choroid plexus cyst in the trigone of the lateral ventricle and a systematic review of 65 additional published cases with the aim of identifying epidemiological features, variants of localization of the cysts, their symptoms, persistence of concomitant obstructive hydrocephalus, and treatment modalities.
Materials and methods.
A PRISMA-based literature search was performed on the PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Knowledge databases. We include in the review case reports and case series of symptomatic choroid plexus cysts with full-texts or valuable abstracts available online in English and published by April 2023. All abstracts of retrieved studies were assessed by two independent researchers to avoid bias. Only descriptive statistics were used for the presentation of the results.
Results.
48 studies (39 case reports and 9 case series) with 65 depicted cases met the eligibility criteria. The review showed a slight predominance of choroid plexus cysts in men. The most common localizations of cysts were the trigone and the body of the lateral ventricle. Obstructive hydrocephalus is often present in patients with choroid plexus cysts. The most common symptoms of cysts were signs of increased ICP: headaches and vomiting. The main treatment approaches for symptomatic choroid plexus cysts were microsurgical excision, microsurgical fenestration, endoscopic fenestration, and total endoscopic excision. The tendency has been noted to shift from microsurgical to endoscopic procedures over the past two decades. Some data on the classification of cysts of the central nervous system and the underlying mechanisms of the pathogenesis of choroid plexus cysts are also presented.
Conclusion.
Although symptomatic cases of choroid plexus cysts are rare, by summarizing currently available data, one could clarify their common features and identify a preferable treatment modality.
Efficacy of Management and Employees’ Involvement in HRD Initiatives: The Case of PNG Power Limited
Authors: Manohar Ponnusamy , Rayel Joyce , Sause Lawrence
Published: July 2023

Organizational investment in human resource development (HRD) has risen rapidly over the years. The rise in HRD investment is undoubtedly triggered by the belief that HRD is the key to strengthening personal and organizational performance. Yet despite heavy investment in this area, the outcomes achieved are often mixed with varied results. A key issue is the choice of HRD initiatives adopted and how they are implemented to achieve the desired HRD outcomes. Poor initiatives that do not realistically target HRD gaps, combined with poor implementation measures, are most likely to fail. Regular measurement of such is significant not only to determine the impact on key outcomes but is also essential to learn, accumulate evidence, and then use such evidence for improving HRD investment and/or policy. The study’s main objective is to analyse the training and development activities in PNG Power Limited (PPL) from the lenses of management and employees. This research highlights management and employees’ involvement in HRD initiatives which is paramount for organisational development. The study employed a mixed method of analysis and used surveys and interviews to collect data and information. The findings revealed that PPL has organised training programs to develop management skills of non-technical staff and competency-based training for technical employees. However, these training and development activities are perceived to be moderately effective regarding how management and employees are involved. This research concludes that the effectiveness of HRD initiatives through training and development activities is significantly determined by the degree of management and employee involvement. This study contributes to the knowledge of HRD in developing countries, particularly in the Pacific Region. It is hoped that this study will be helpful to improve specific areas requiring change identified in this study and may well serve as inspiration for organisational and policy change across other service organisations in PNG.
The Teaching of English Conversation at Oxford Public School Morarkhera: A Case Study in India
Authors: Wahid Muhammad
Published: July 2023

This study was intended to describe the phenomenon of the implementation of the teaching of English conversation at Oxford Public School Morarkhera in India. Case study qualitative research was implemented in this study.  To gain the data, the subjects of the study were chosen. The subjects in this study were the students of Oxford Public School Morarkhera who took the English Conversation class. They were from first grade to fifth grade. Data collection instruments used are interviews, observation, and documentation. Data analysis was analyzed using the model of Miles et al. consists of four stages, namely the data collection, data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results show a lower percentage of speaking lessons at the school, which can be attributed to the priority given to reading and writing. In the first year, only 50% of the available teaching material is devoted to speaking, as it is considered the second skill to be mastered by students. Nevertheless, speaking skills must not be neglected in the English curriculum. The portion is sufficient as speaking activities will be integrated with other English skills. The teacher primarily uses English rather than Hindi during the teaching-learning process, which can lead to student stress due to a lack of comprehension. It is important for students to participate actively in speaking class activities, as mastering the English language, particularly speaking skills, is crucial for their success. The finding suggests that the communicative approach may require adaptation, and the schools should create an environment that supports and encourages English-speaking mastery among their students.
Assessing the Professional Preparedness of English Studies Graduates in Morocco: An Alumni Perspective on the Applied Linguistics Track
Authors: Bahnasse Ayoub , Harrizi Meriem , Loutfi Ayoub , Zaidoune Said
Published: July 2023

This paper evaluates the effectiveness of the sixth semester of applied linguistics in the English studies track in preparing students for the job market in Morocco. A questionnaire survey was conducted with alumni of the program to assess the extent to which the program facilitated their employment, career advancement, and fulfillment of professional expectations. The results revealed that involving alumni in the development and renewal of the track is crucial. However, a significant number of participants expressed dissatisfaction with the current curriculum, citing difficulties in professional integration. The findings suggest that incorporating practical training and offering more elective courses could better equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the job market. Based on these findings, the paper concludes with recommendations for enhancing the English studies track, including the routine evaluation of academic programs to align with market needs and promote curriculum changes and innovations. It is believed that these recommendations will ultimately improve students' professional integration in the job market.
Learner Autonomy during COVID-19: The Case of Moroccan EFL Undergraduates com
Authors: Khoudri Insaf , Zeriouh Mohammed
Published: July 2023

Learner autonomy is one of the predictors of academic performance. Many researchers have argued that moving from secondary to higher school is a big transition. Shifting the focus from teacher-centeredness to learner-centeredness, learners in higher school display less reliance on their teachers to carry on their learning. Throughout this process, learners develop their autonomy and boost their independence. However, numerous studies revealed that most students are unaware of this shift. The purpose of this paper is to assess the autonomy of Moroccan EFL undergraduate students during the Covid-19 pandemic. Equally, this study aims at developing awareness of some strategies and techniques students use to increase their autonomy and self-independence. To achieve this purpose, the study employed a quantitative approach. A Likert scale-based questionnaire was administered to 100 (55 males and 45 females) EFL Moroccan undergraduate students. The research data was generated and analyzed using SPSS. Statistical analysis revealed that during the Covid-19 pandemic (69%) of EFL students were not aware of their role as independent and autonomous learners. Likewise, only (30%) of them were involved in syllabus design. Nevertheless (49%) of EFL students revealed their readiness to be part of decision-making concerning the teaching-learning process. The study results suggest that the use of the internet, self-managerial skills, peer and teacher collaboration are among the effective strategies students employ to increase their autonomy and self-independence alike.
Teacher Appraisal Systems of Critical Incidents Experienced in Iranian EFL Classroom Context
Authors: Abdulhay Husain
Published: July 2023

This study sought to solicit, through the Geneva Appraisal Questionnaire (GAQ), Iranian EFL teachers’ emotional experiences and their ensuing control and authority practices. In so doing, a total of forty university instructors in Iran were recruited to participate in the study by filling in the instruments, of which thirteen were returned back. The content analysis of the data was quantitatively and qualitatively done to pinpoint the frequency of the occurrences of the emotional events and to scour the teachers’ feelings, behaviors, and reactions to the encountered situations. The data gleaned from both female and male teachers in this study disclosed the recalling of the negative events more than the positive ones. The teachers’ reservations and expectations and the lack of dexterity to confront the unprecedented behaviors were witnessed to be the main causes of experiencing negative emotions. However, the teachers’ commiseration and empathetic teaching styles were reported as the reasons for their experiences of positive feelings. The results of this study may have some practical implications and suggestions for language teacher education.
An in-silico study of the type II NADH: Quinone Oxidoreductase (ndh2). A new anti-malaria drug target
Authors:   , Baye Bertha Cinthia
Published: July 2023

Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites, spread to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. This study focuses on all 5 (Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium knowlesi, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium vivax) parasites that cause malaria in humans. Africa is a developing continent, and it is the most affected with an estimation of 90% of more than 400 000 malaria-related deaths reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) report in 2020, in which 61% of that number are children under the ages of five. Malaria resistance was initially observed in early 1986 and with the progression of time anti-malarial drug resistance has only increased. As a result, there is a need to study the malarial proteins mechanism of action and identify alternative treatment strategies for this disease. Type II NADH: quinone oxidoreductase (NDH2) is a monotopic protein that catalyses the electron transfer from NADH to quinone via FAD without a proton-pumping activity, and functions as an initial enzyme, either in addition to or as an alternative to proton-pumping NADH dehydrogenase (complex I) in the respiratory chain of bacteria, archaea, and fungal and plant mitochondrial. The structures for the Plasmodium knowlesi, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium vivax were modelled from the crystal structure of Plasmodium falciparum (5JWA). Compounds from the South African natural compounds database (SANCDB) were docked against both the NDH2 crystal structure and modelled structures. By performing in silico screening the study aimed to find potential compounds that might interrupt the electron transfer to quinone therefore disturbing the enzyme‟s function and thereby possibly eliminating the plasmodium parasite. CHARMM-GUI was used to create the membrane (since this work is with membrane-bound proteins) and to orient the protein on the membrane using OPM server guidelines, the interface produced GROMACS topology files that were used in molecular dynamics simulations. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed in the Centre for high performance computing (CHPC) cluster under the CHEM0802 project and the trajectories produced were further analysed. In this work not only were hit compounds from SANCDB identified, but also differences in behaviour across species and in the presence or absence of the membrane were described. This highlights the need to include the correct protein environment when studying these systems.
Osmanlı Devleti’nin Son Dönemlerinde Manisa Merkez Hapishanesi (1870-1920)
Authors: GÜNEŞ Mehmet , DEVE Gözde
Published: July 2023

Suçluların hapsedilmesini sistematik bir şekle sokan hapishaneler, XIX. yüzyılın ikinci yarısından itibaren yaygınlaşmaya başlamış, Batı’da olduğu gibi Osmanlı Devleti’nde de ceza sistemi içerisinde yerini almıştır. Bilhassa Tanzimat’la birlikte kabul edilen yeni ceza kanunları ve daha sonra yayımlanan nizamnameler ile hapis cezası ve bu cezanın mekansal boyutunu oluşturan hapishaneler ön plana çıkmıştır. Ancak bu durum önemli sorunları da beraberinde getirmiştir. Hapishaneler hususunda en önemli sorunlardan birisi bina sorunu olarak ortaya çıkmıştır. Devletin içerisinde bulunduğu ekonomik durum, çoğu zaman yeni hapishane binaları inşa edilmesine müsaade etmediği gibi, hapishane amacıyla kullanılan mevcut yapıların tamiratına da imkan sağlamamıştır. Mahpusların son derece izdihamlı mekanlarda yaşama zorunluluğu, sağlık ve güvenlik gibi sorunları da beraberinde getirmiştir. Osmanlı Devleti'nin son dönemlerinde Manisa hapishanesi de bütün bu olumsuzlukları üzerinde bulundurması bakımından tipik bir örnek teşkil etmektedir.

Bu çalışmada, ağırlıklı olarak Cumhurbaşkanlığı Devlet Arşivleri Başkanlığı Osmanlı Arşivi'nde yer alan muhtelif tasniflerdeki belgelerden istifade ederek, Aydın vilayetine bağlı Saruhan sancağı Manisa kazası hapishanesinin 1870-1920 yılları arasındaki vaziyeti incelenmeye çalışılmıştır. Bu bağlamda mezkur hapishanenin fiziki yapısı, tamirat ve inşası ve bunun için yapılan masraflar, mahkum ve tutuklular, hapishane görevlileri ve ücretleri ile ilgili bilgiler verilmeye çalışılmıştır. Aydın vilayeti ve dahilindeki diğer bazı liva ve kaza hapishaneleri ile ilgili birkaç çalışma mevcut olmakla birlikte Manisa merkez hapishanesi ile ilgili kapsamlı bir çalışma yapılmamış olup, bu çalışma ile bu konudaki eksikliğin giderilmesi amaçlanmaktadır.
Fransız Basınında Sakarya Zaferi
Authors: SÖNMEZ Şinasi
Published: July 2023

Öz
Osmanlı Devleti’nin Mondros Ateşkes Antlaşması ile Birinci Dünya Savaşı’ndan çekilmesi sonrasında Türk milleti için yeni bir dönem başladı. İtilaf Devletleri, Ateşkes Antlaşmasının maddelerini yeniden şekillendirecekleri bir Osmanlı Devleti için hazırlamışlardı. Anlaşmanın imzalanmasından kısa bir süre sonra İngiltere, Fransa ve İtalya doğrudan işgallere başladı. İtilaf Devletlerinin saflarına sonradan katılan (1917) Yunanistan ise İngiltere’nin desteği ile İzmir’e asker çıkararak işgalini Batı Anadolu’dan Sakarya nehrine kadar genişletmiştir. Ülkenin batısından başlayarak genişleyen Yunan işgali Türk halkının tepkisini daha çok çekmiş, Milli Mücadelenin direncini arttırmıştır.
Fransa, İngiltere ile daha önce yaptığı gizli anlaşmalar doğrultusunda Türkiye’nin kendine ayrılan bölümlerini işgal etmeye başladı. Dönemin Fransız basını, Türk topraklarında bulunan ordularının Ateşkes Antlaşması doğrultusunda ülkelerinin çıkarlarını, Hıristiyanlar ve Ermenilerin can güvenliğini koruduğunu yazmaktaydı. Başlangıçta Türkiye ile ilgili haberler İstanbul’da bulunan haber ajansları veya gazetelerin muhabirleri aracılığıyla veriliyordu. Ayrıca İşgaller karşısında Türk halkının tepkileri ya doğrudan kendi gözlemleri ya da Türk basınında çıkan haberlere dayanılarak aktarılıyordu. Atatürk’ün önderliğinde başlatılan Milli Mücadele ile ilgili haber ve yorumlar ise genellikle “Kemalistler” veya “Kemalist Ordular” başlığı altında verilirken, Yunan işgali ile ilgili haberler başlangıçta Atina muhabirlerinin izlenimleri doğrultusunda aktarılıyordu. Yunan işgaline karşı girişilen Milli Mücadele hareketi gazetelerin büyük bir çoğunluğu tarafından “Türk- Yunan Çatışması” başlığı altında anlatılıyordu Sakarya Zaferinden sonra Fransız basınında, Türk- Yunan savaşının sadece haberlerini değil, bu savaşın nedenlerini de sorgulamaya başladığını görüyoruz.
Türkiye Büyük Millet Meclisi’nin İlk Musevi Mebusu: Samuel Abravaya Marmaralı
Authors: DAĞLI Erkan
Published: July 2023

Osmanlı, bünyesi içinde yaşayan toplumu yani tebaayı bazı özelliklerine göre özellikle de dini inancına göre sınıflandırmıştır. Osmanlı Devleti çok farklı kıtadaki yönetimi altındaki insanları “Millet Sistemi” içerisinde bir arada tutmuştur. Millet sisteminde baz alınan ölçüt o toplumun ırkından ziyade dini inancı ön planda tutulmuş ve Müslüman olsun olmasın Osmanlı adaleti millet sistemi ile bütün Osmanlı milletine uygulanmıştır. Osmanlı, I. Dünya Savaşı sonrasında da dağılmış ve yerine Türkiye Cumhuriyeti kurularak din yapılı millet sisteminden, ırk bazlı vatandaş sistemine geçilmiştir.

Türkiye’de 1923’te Cumhuriyet ilan edilerek rejimin adı belli olmuştur. Bu kapsamda seçim yoluyla halkın kendi hür iradesiyle ülkeyi yönetecek mebusların millet meclisinde temsil edilmesi demokrasinin ana şartı olmuştur. Ülkedeki her kesimden insanın hür düşüncesinin savunulması ve farklı din ile ırka mensup vatandaşların da bu mecliste yer alması demokrasiyi daha da kuvvetlendirmiştir. Bu çerçevede Atatürk çok partili demokrasiyi desteklese 1930’da Serbest Cumhuriyet Fırkası’nın kendini feshetmesiyle ikinci deneme de başarısızlıkla sonuçlanmıştır. Çok partili adımlardan netice alamayan Atatürk, 1931’deki genel seçimlerden önce demokratik adımlardan vazgeçmeyerek Gayrı Müslim adaylar ile müstakil mebuslar politikasını uygulamıştır. Müstakil mebuslara iktidara kısmi güdümlü muhalefet rolü verilse de asıl amaç farklı duygu ve düşüncedeki Türkiye Cumhuriyeti vatandaşlarının mecliste temsil edilmesi hedeflenmiştir. Bu çalışma Atatürk döneminde 1935 ve 1939 seçimlerinde Musevilerin temsilcisi olarak Niğde’den müstakil mebus olan Samuel Abravaya Marmaralı’nın hayatı ve faaliyetlerini kapsamaktadır.
Abbâsîler Döneminde Irak Hac Kafilelerine Düzenlenen Saldırılar
Authors: ATAŞ Haci
Published: July 2023

Hac yollarının güvenliği meselesi İslâmiyet öncesine kadar giden ve bölge insanını yakından ilgilendiren konulardan biridir. Çöllerde, hayatlarını yağma ve soygunla sürdüren Araplar, hac kervanlarını bir geçim aracı olarak görür ve fırsat bulduklarında bu kervanları yağmalardı. Bu yüzden Araplar on iki aydan dördünü haram ay olarak ilan etmek suretiyle bu problemin üstesinden gelmeye çalışmışlardır. İslâm’ın bölgede güç kazanmasıyla beraber Araplar’ın büyük çoğunluğu İslâm’ı tercih etmiştir. Müslüman olmadan önce çöllerde, geçimlerini baskın ve soygunlarla yürüten Bedevî Araplar’ın büyük bir kısmı İslâm ordusuna dâhil edilmiştir. Bu uygulama onların fetihlerle meşgul olmasını sağlamıştır. Böylece Müslümanlar uzun yıllar güvenli bir şekilde hac yolculuğuna çıkabilmiştir. Ancak Abbâsîler’in ilk asrından sonra siyasî istikrarın bozulmasıyla birlikte hac yollarının güvenliği yeniden önem kazanmıştır. Özellikle, Horasan ve Irak tarafından yola çıkan kafileler uzun ve meşakkatli bir yolculuğu göze almak zorundaydı. Buna bir de yağmacı grupların saldırıları eklenince bu yol iyice tehlikeli bir hâl almıştır. Abbâsîler dönemindeki otorite boşluğundan faydalanarak hac kafilelerine saldıran gruplar arasında çeşitli kabilelere mensup bedevî Araplar bulunmaktadır. Dinî, siyasî ve ekonomik sebeplerle ortaya çıkan Karmatîler de hac kafilelerini hedef alan diğer bir gruptur. Bu saldırıların çoğu ciddi oranda mal ve can kaybı ile sonuçlanmıştır. Bu çalışmada Abbâsîler döneminde Irak hac kafilelerine düzenlenen saldırılar ele alınmıştır. Bu saldırıların arkasında yatan sebepler ve bunlara karşı alınan tedbirler de çalışmamız kapsamında değerlendirmeye tabi tutulmuştur. Siyasî ve ekonomik istikrarın kaybolduğu dönemlerde, hac kafilelerine yönelik saldırıların artış gösterdiği görülmüş; bu süreçte, bazı bedevî kabileler ve isyancı grupların hac kafilelerini bir geçim kaynağı olarak gördüğü tespit edilmiştir.
Statistical refinement of the North American Multi-Model Ensemble precipitation forecasts over Karoon basin, Iran
Authors: Yazdandoost Farhad , Zakipour Mina , Izadi Ardalan
Published: July 2023

An effective postprocessing approach has been examined to improve the skill of North American Multi-Model Ensemble (NMME) precipitation forecasts in the Karoon basin, Iran. The Copula–Bayesian approach was used along with the Normal Kernel Density marginal distribution and the Kernel Copula function. This process creates more than one postprocessing precipitation value as results candidates (first pass). A similar process is used for a second pass to obtain preprocessed values based on the candidate inputs, which helps identify the most suitable postprocessed value. The application of the technique for order preference by similarity to the ideal solution method based on conditional probability distribution functions of the first and second passes leads to achieving final improved forecast data among the existing candidates. To validate the results, data from 1982–2010 and 2011–2018 were used for the calibration and forecast periods. The results show that while the GFDL and CFS2 models tend to overestimate precipitation, most other NMME models underestimate it. Postprocessing improves the accuracy of forecasts for most models by 20%–40%. Overall, the proposed Copula–Bayesian postprocessing approach could provide more reliable forecasts with higher spatial and temporal consistency, better detection of extreme precipitation values, and a significant reduction in uncertainties.
Spatial-dynamic heterogeneity of the COVID-19 epidemic process in the Russian Federation regions (2020–2023)
Authors:   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Zaitseva N.V. , Kleyn S.V. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Glukhikh M.V. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation
Published: July 2023

The coronavirus pandemic has produced considerable effects on medical and demographic processes worldwide and in Russia in particular. The epidemic process involved a sequence of circulating SARS-CoV-2 virus strains with different mutations and this reflected in registered levels of incidence and mortality against spatial heterogeneity of socioeconomic factors in different RF regions. The aim of this study was to analyze spatial-dynamic heterogeneity of the COVID-19 epidemic process in the RF regions in 2020–2023. We performed retrospective analysis of incidence and mortality at the national and regional levels. The analysis relied on departmental statistical data provided by Rospotrebnadzor as well as public data that described the intensive indicators of the COVID-19 epidemic process and results obtained by sequencing of biomaterial samples to identify COVID-19 in them in 2020–2023. In 2020–2023 we identified five ‘waves’ of the COVID-19 epidemic processes that interchanged sequentially. Within these waves, RF regions reached local peaks in incidence with different speed. According to available data, the highest primary incidence among all the RF regions in 2021–2022 was established in Saint Petersburg (12,821.8 cases and 17,341.2 cases per 100 thousand people); the highest mortality in 2021 was detected in the Tver region (427 cases per 100 thousand people) and in the Arkhangelsk region in 2022 (350.9 cases per 100 thousand people).The greatest number of the RF regions where the incidence due to the disease was higher than its average annual level was established in October, November, December 2021 and February 2022 (51, 68, 51 and 82 RF regions accordingly). The established spatial-dynamic heterogeneity of the epidemic process may indicate that this process can be largely determined by differences in the initial socioeconomic, medical and demographic characteristics of the RF religions. Limitations of the study are related to the used statistical data on registered incidence and mortality as well as the concept of the epidemiological ‘wave’ accepted in it. The identified territorial differences in the COVID-19 epidemic process should be considered when developing optimal regulatory impacts including those aimed at predicting probable emergent infections.
Sprawozdanie z konferencji naukowej „Wokół Ukrainy” 28.05.2022 r., Centrum Myśli Jana Pawła II, Warszawa
Authors: Baran Dominika B , Lesiewicz Anna
Published: July 2023

Stypendyści m.st. Warszawa im. Jana Pawła II zorganizowali projekt społecznonaukowy „Wokół Ukrainy”, który zaowocował konferencją naukową o takim samym tytule. Konferencja została podzielona na trzy zakresy tematyczne. Pierwszy skupiał się na sytuacji prawnej obywateli Ukrainy w Polsce w związku z konfliktem zbrojnym na terytorium tego państwa, drugi dotyczył aspektów psychologicznych wojny, natomiast trzeci, ostatni, panel poruszał temat prawa kanonicznego w odniesieniu do prawosławnych obywateli Ukrainy w Polsce.Na potrzeby niniejszego sprawozdania Autorka skupi się na pierwszym panelu dotyczącym sytuacji prawnej obywateli Ukrainy w Polsce w związku z wojną na terytorium Ukrainy, ze stanem prawnym na dzień 28.05.2022 r..
Prosument a prosument wirtualny w świetle przepisów prawa energetycznego
Authors: Baran Dominika
Published: July 2023

Artykuł omawia różnicę między prosumentem a prosumentem wirtualnym w świetle przepisów prawa energetycznego. Ponadto omawia cel wprowadzenia nowego modelu prosumenckiego na rynek energii odnawialnej.
Podstawy kasacyjne w orzecznictwie Naczelnego Sądu Administracyjnego
Authors: Adamczyk Magdalena
Published: July 2023

Skarga kasacyjna w postępowaniu sądowoadministracyjnym jest zwyczajnym środkiem zaskarżenia orzeczenia wydanego w pierwszej instancji. Wniesienie skargi kasacyjnej jest obwarowane szczegółowymi wymogami formalnymi, których spełnienie wywoła skutek w postaci merytorycznego rozpatrzenie sprawy. Zasadniczo przedmiotowe rozstrzygnięcie podejmowane jest przez Naczelny Sąd Administracyjny, choć możliwe jest także wydanie tego rodzaju rozstrzygnięcia przez wojewódzki sąd administracyjny w trybie autokontroli (na podstawie art. 179 p.p.s.a.). Jednym z podstawowych warunków jest podniesienie zarzutów kasacyjnych, których charakter i sposób sporządzenia określany jest nie tylko w art. 174 p.p.s.a., ale także – w szczególny sposób – przez orzecznictwo Naczelnego Sądu Administracyjnego. Podstawy kasacyjne stanowią niezbędny element skargi kasacyjnej, jednocześnie określający granice późniejszego orzekania przez sąd. Celem artykułu jest podkreślenie fundamentalnych założeń wskazanych przez Naczelny Sąd Administracyjny, których uwzględnienie znacznie ułatwia prawidłowe zrozumienie problematyki będącej przedmiotem rozważań.
Dental Microbiology
Authors: Kalra Namita , Tyagi Rishi , Kulood Khadeeja
Published: July 2023

This chapter introduces the student to oral microbiology. Dental plaque is a
known common denominator for caries and periodontal diseases. The colonization of
plaque is an important concept. The microbial basis of caries is discussed in this
chapter along with gingivitis, periodontics, periimplantitis, and cellulitis.
Dental Pathology
Authors: Kalra Namita , Khatri Amit , Yangdol Padma
Published: July 2023

The chapter focuses on the dental pathology. It covers the pathology related
to teeth and epithelium. Congenital defects of the oral cavity and developmental defects
of teeth are also elaborated. It explains inflammation in general with an emphasis on
pulp and periapical inflammation and disease. Squamous cell carcinomas are also
discussed along with their etiology.
Common Drugs Used in Dental Practice
Authors: Verma Savita
Published: July 2023

The chapter provides an insight into the common drug therapy practiced in
dental clinics for patients. Various routes of administration of drugs are explained. The
responsibilities of the patient attendant are highlighted, which is very important and
cannot be overlooked, considering the legal liabilities. Most of the important drugs are
also described in this chapter.
Hand Washing
Authors: Kalra Namita
Published: July 2023

The chapter deals with the practice of washing hands and its importance. It
is a simple process, and its importance is reinforced. The small act of handwashing is
an activity that has been repeatedly shown to be very useful in controlling the spread of
nosocomial infections. Eye protection and alcohol-based rubs are also discussed. The
use of other protective gear is also stressed.
Recent Progress in Metal-Organic Frameworks and their Derivatives as Advanced Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reactions
Authors: Li Jingsha , Guo Chunxian
Published: July 2023

Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) plays an important role in clean energy storage and conversion devices, such as metal-air batteries and fuel cells. However, the slow kinetic has impeded their large-scale applications. Hence, it is necessary to develop highly efficient electrocatalysts to accelerate the reaction rate of ORR. Owing to their ordered structure, ultrahigh specific surface area, abundant channel and functional adjustability, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their derivatives were explored to catalyze ORR. In this chapter, we present a timely review of pristine MOFs and MOF-derived porous carbon-based materials as advanced electrocatalysts for ORR. We start with the introduction of the fundamentals of electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), followed by surveying various forms of MOFs and MOFderived nanomaterials as advanced electrocatalysts towards ORR, including metal-free heteroatom-doped carbon-based materials, transition metal and nitrogen co-doped carbon (M-Nx-C), carbon-supported single-atom catalysts (SACs). Additionally, we briefly outline the challenges and prospects of this research filed.
Eficiência técnica das instituições de microfinanças na região da União Econômica e Monetária do Oeste Africano (UEMOA)
Authors: Mohamed Abdoulaye Aboubacari , Almeida Felipe Miranda de Souza , Ervilha Gabriel Teixeira , Lima João Eustáquio de
Published: July 2023

This paper examine the efficiency of microfinance institutions (MFIs) in WAEMU (West African Economic and Monetary Union). Using DEA (Data Envelopment Analysis), we calculate the technical efficiency scores in a sample of 80 savings and credit cooperatives in 2014. We find higher levels for social efficacy than for financial efficiency. The comparative analysis of effectiveness according to the country of origin of the microfinance institution shows that no country has a monopoly on good performance. One of the important conclusions is that inefficiency is better explained by pure technical ineffectiveness rather than by scale. Therefore, improving the effi-ciency of MFIs involves improving technical capa-bility by promoting training, better equipment and quality of management.
Security and Sustainable Development in Africa: What Role for AFRICOM in the Continent
Authors: Aty Mourad
Published: July 2023

Since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development, the United Nations has been actively disseminating seventeen (17) sustainable develop-ment goals (SDGs). The agenda calls for global partnerships for what it called “peace and prosperity for people and the planet”. SDG number sixteen (16) seeks to promote peace, justice and institutional effi-ciency. This seems to be a long and complex process when it comes to Africa. The African continent is the most fragile in terms of sustainable development given that most of its regions are conflict-torn. When it comes to peace and stability as a prerequisite to sustainable development, it is clear that the northern, western, and Horn regions are now the most unstable in the whole continent. Amidst all this, the United States Africa Command was created in 2007 to safe-guard peace, bring stability and provide prosperity in the region. Drawing on source materials, mainly from the US Department of Defense and its Africa Center for Strategic Studies (ACSS), along with the AFRICOM Posture Statements to Congress of 2018 through 2022, this paper argues that the creation of the US Africa Command did not achieve any of the set mission goals. To the contrary, it was an attrac-tion factor to terrorist groups which spread all over the region. Through several datasets, the paper also shows that more threats became imminent and more countries were plunged into bloodshed. More failed states in the region would make it impossible for the implementation of any of the 2030 Agenda’s SDGs
Whither Diversion or Broadening the Bargaining Space: Why Africa Needs New Non-traditional Partners in Development Cooperation
Authors: Mudzengerere Armstrong
Published: July 2023

The study seeks to develop a research agenda on why Africa needs new non-conventional partners like Viet-nam and the United Arab Emirates in Development Cooperation (DC). Existing studies have focused more on conceptual dissections of strategies towards Africa in the trendy Africa+1 summit binge overlooking the lessons and complementarities that can emerge from reciprocal direct cooperation between African countries and new non-traditional partners. The paper suggests that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Vietnam are offering opportunities for shared learning, technology transfer, information sharing and “learning by doing together” in agriculture trans-formation and digitalization for intra Africa trade. In proposing this avenue of thought for new non-traditional partners, the paper seeks to recenter the discourse on the specific investment needs of Africa, “putting money where Africa needs it”.
Japanese Versions of Korean Classics
Authors:   The Association of DaeDong-Hanmun, Lee Changhee
Published: July 2023

This paper adumbrates the current status of Japanese Editions of Korean Classics produced domestically and internationally. Japanese Translation of Korean Classics has been conducted relatively earlier than that of any other target language within the geopolitical, historical context, along with which investigations into the current state of Japanese versions of Korean Classics also has drawn much attention of domestic and foreign researchers. Most of the existing catalogues, however, paid specific attention to only some genres such as novels or tales. When it comes to Korean Classics, too much focus is mainly on translations from Chosŏn Collectanea (朝鮮叢書, Chosŏn Ch'ongsŏ) produced during the colonial period, resulting in a number of significant translations not being included in the existing lists. Even in the case of anthologies, what literary works are included in each is not written in some of the lists. This paper, while supplementing the existing catalogues, aims to conduct an exhaustive investigation into what Korean Classics have been translated and introduced so far, based on which this paper also explores the current state of Japanese translations of Korean Classics by year, work, and translator.
Geleefde theorie. Over de autobiografische dimensies van wetenschap
Authors: Meijer Maaike
Published: July 2023

Wetenschap kan autobiografisch geïnspireerd zijn. Werken in genderstudies hielp mij mijn eigen raadselachtige gender te doordenken. Mijn boek Radeloze helden (2023) getuigt daarvan. Het gaat over mannelijkheid in literatuur en film én over mij. Ik zet mijn eigen ‘mannelijkheid’ in om de transgenderbeweging te bevragen.
The Influential Antioxidant Role Of Coenzyme Q10 and Dehydroepiandrosterone against Carbon Tetrachloride Induced Liver Damage In Male Rats
Authors: K.K. Al-Rekabi Bassim , Hussein Ali M. , Al-Shwilly Hatim A.J. , Obaid Qayssar A.
Published: July 2023

This study evaluated the protective role of exogenous CoQ10 and DHEA and their combination on CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in adult male rats. Thirty adult male rats 225-250 grams, 12-14 weeks old, were used in this study and randomly divided into five equal groups, 6 animals each as in the following: Control group (G1): 6 male rats received DMSO 0.5ml/ animal/day orally, First treated group (T1): 6 male rats received daily CCl4 1ml/kg (1:1 olive oil, IP), Second treated group (T2): 6 male rats received CCl4 1ml/ kg and after 1hour injected daily with CoQ10 200 mg/kg IP, Third treated group (T3): 6 male rats received CCl4 1ml/kg and after 1hour injected daily with DHEA 25 mg/kg IP, Fourth treated group (T4): 6 male rats received CCl4 1ml/kg and after 1hour injected daily with a combination of CoQ10 200 mg/kg + DHEA 25 mg/kg IP. The experiment lasted for 28 successive days. The obtained results illustrated that male rats received CCl4 (1ml/kg) caused a significant increase in hepatic enzyme function AST, ALT and ALP, as well as MDA levels, and caused a significant decrease in antioxidant enzyme activity GPx, SOD and CAT levels. In addition, CCl4 also caused various degrees of liver damage, such as dilation and congestion of the central vein with hemorrhage, apparent fatty degeneration and infiltration of inflammatory cells compared to the control group. Whereas, the group treated with CoQ10 200 mg/kg and DHEA 25 mg/kg showed a significant decrease (P< 0.05) in serum AST, ALT and ALP as well as MDA value, and significantly increased in GPx, SOD with the decline in CAT levels compared to the group treated with CCl4 intoxication. It is also observed from the results that the combination of CoQ10 and DHEA caused a highly significant (P < 0.05) decline in AST, ALT and ALP as well as MDA levels, and a significant elevate in GPx, SOD and decline in CAT, and almost return to average level compared to control. As well as, the histopathological examination of the liver revealed that rats treated with CoQ10 and DHEA and their combination had usual central veins and hepatocytes compared to groups treated with CCl4 due to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties. It has been concluded that CoQ10 and DHEA have a protective effect against liver damage induced by CCl4 through improving antioxidant enzyme activity in CCl4 treated group leading to a declined MDA level and reduced lipid peroxidation. Thus, CoQ10 and DHEA are potential therapeutic antioxidant agents on hepatotoxicity by suppressing hepatic oxidative stress.

Keywords: CoQ10, DHEA, antioxidant, CCl4, hepatic damage, male rat.
Electropolymerization of some amino acids on platinum electrode
Authors: Hassen Taleb F. , Gharbi Tijani , Cattey Helene , Herlem Guillaume
Published: July 2023

This paper studied the anodic oxidation of L-amino acids on smooth platinum and modified Pt electrodes (Pt/AAO). The oxidation of L-amino was carried out by cyclic voltammetry coupled with electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM). The Amino acid concentration, pH of the electrolyte and the scan number effects on cyclic voltammetry were examined. Spectroscopic analysis, such as attenuated total reflectance FT infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), characterize the resulting thin film coatings. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is used to study the morphology of thin film surfaces and their solubility. Spectroscopic measurements favor L-amino acids electropolymerization into poly-L-amino acids in an irreversible way. The electrosynthesis of poly-L-amino acids was used as a proton receptor for the solid-state pH solid sensor.
Keywords. Anodic oxidation, L-amino acids, electropolymerization, pH sensor.
Molecular detection of Escherichia coli efflux pumps genes isolated from UTI in pregnant women
Authors: Adil Kadhim Wedad , Ibrahim Mubarak Kareem
Published: July 2023

Sixty-three clinical samples from midstream urine samples were collected from pregnant women with urinary tract infections. After microscopic examination, culture and biochemical tests and the final diagnosis using the VITEK-2 system, 25 Escherichia coli isolates were discovered. Antimicrobial susceptibility results showed that E.coli isolates were resistant to gentamicin (%92), amikacin (%28), norfloxacin (%52), Ciprofloxacin (%56), ofloxacin (%60), trimethoprim (%8), chloramphenicol (%80), colistin sulfate (%20), tetracyclin (%68), azithromycin (%48), cefoxitin (%40), amoxicillin-clavulanate (%96), ampicillin (%92). The prevalence of capsule posses, hemolysin production, biofilm formation, and efflux pumps wrer%24,%16,%72 and %44 respectively. The result of efflux pumps genes acrA and acrB gene detection was 100. The acrA and acrB gene expression increased after treatment with the antibiotic Ciprofloxacin. Because of the primary role of Escherichia coli in urinary tract infection and the presence of a high ratio of Multidrug Resistance ( MDR ), and the importance of The efflux pumps in antibiotics resistance, the current study was conducted to determine the MDR isolates from UTI in pregnant women's in Baquba city, the percent of acrA and acrB genes among strains and the effect of Ciprofloxacin treatment on gene expression.
Keywords. Escherichia coli, efflux pumps, acrA gene, acrB gene
Online Physician-Patient Interaction and Patient Satisfaction: Empirical Study of the Internet Hospital Service
Authors: Wu Doris Chenguang , Zhao Xianduo , Wu Ji
Published: July 2023

Background

In China, a form of online health service called the internet hospital became a prominent means of patient care when face-to-face visits were not possible during the COVID-19 pandemic to minimize transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Patients’ internet hospital experiences largely depend on online physician-patient interaction. Yet, little is known about how physicians can improve patient satisfaction by using specific communication strategies online.

Objective

This study aimed to identify specific communication strategies to help physicians deliver better quality internet hospital services. We also outline recommendations for hospitals to operate internet hospital platforms more effectively.

Methods

A longitudinal data set was collected from an internet hospital platform operated by a top hospital in China. By extracting communication patterns from approximately 20,000 records of online health care services and by controlling the features of service requests, we tested the impacts of response load, more detailed style, and emotional comfort on patient satisfaction. We further explored the effects of these communication patterns in different service contexts.

Results

Physicians with a low response load, a more detailed style, and expressions of emotional comfort received more positive patient feedback. Response load did not affect patient satisfaction with free online health service, whereas a more detailed style and emotional comfort enhanced satisfaction with free service. Response load significantly reduced patient satisfaction with paid online health service, while a more detailed style had no effect. Compared with free service, emotional comfort more strongly promoted patient satisfaction with paid service.

Conclusions

The communication strategies identified can help physicians provide patients with a better internet hospital experience. These strategies require hospitals to schedule each physician’s online service period more appropriately. In addition, tailoring the strategies to service situations can facilitate more targeted and effective internet hospital service for patients.