bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Phage Therapy in COVID-19 Infection: Future Prospects
Authors: Kumar Singh Amresh , Gaur Vivek , Kumar Ankur
Published: April 2021

The pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first reported in Wuhan City, China, in 2019. After that, the outbreak has grown into a global pandemic and definite treatment for the disease, termed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is currently unavailable. The slow translational progress in the field of research suggests that a large number of studies are urgently required for targeted therapy. In this context, this hypothesis explores the role of bacteriophages on SARS-CoV-2, especially concerning phage therapy (PT). Several studies have confirmed that in addition to their antibacterial abilities, phages also show antiviral properties. It has also been shown that PT is effective for building immunity against viral pathogens by reducing the activation of NF kappa B; additionally, phages produce the antiviral protein phagicin. Phages can also induce antiviral immunity by upregulating expression of defensin 2. Phages may protect eukaryotic cells by competing with viral adsorption and viral penetration of cells, virus mediated cell apoptosis as well as replication. Moreover, by inhibiting activation of NF-κB and ROS production, phages can down regulate excessive inflammatory reactions relevant in clinical course of COVID-19. In this chapter, we hypothesize that the PT may play a therapeutic role in the treatment of COVID-19.
Determination of Aflatoxins by Liquid Chromatography Coupled to High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Arroyo-Manzanares Natalia , Campillo Natalia , López-García Ignacio , Viñas Pilar
Published: April 2021

The most common mycotoxins are aflatoxins (AFs), which are produced by strains of various species of molds in the genus Aspergillus (A. flavus, A. parasiticus, A. nomius and A. tamarii) and can grow on many foods, mainly peanuts, maize and cottonseed. AFs are currently considered to be the most hazardous mycotoxins to health, in particular because of their hepatocellular carcinogenic potential. The main aflatoxins are B1 (AFB1), B2 (AFB2), G1 (AFG1) and G2 (AFG2) although many other derivatives have been described. In addition, animals consuming contaminated feeds are able to metabolize them by hydroxylation in a certain position, yield for example aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) and aflatoxin M2 (AFM2) from AFB1 and AFB2, respectively. Nowadays, only the four main AFs and one hydroxylated metabolite (AFM1) are routinely analyzed. High resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) using Orbitrap or time-of-flight (TOF) mass analysers is a trend for AFs determination, allowing to determine AFs and their derivatives for which there are no commercial standards available, in order to carry out metabolization studies, exposure assessment or monitoring modified AFs in food. The aim of this study is to show the recent trends in analytical methods based on LC-HRMS for determination of AFs.
Functional Uses of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Seed Storage Proteins
Authors: Singh Apekshita , Nath Raina Soom , Sharma Manisha , Chaudhary Manju , Sharma Suman , Rani Rajpal Vijay
Published: April 2021

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important grain legume crop of tropics and subtropics. It is increasingly being accepted as a functional food and protein extender in developing countries. The seed contains 36% to 54% oil, 16% to 36% protein, and 10% to 20% carbohydrates with high amounts of P, Mg, Ca, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, vitamin E, resveratrol and amino acids. Seed contains 32 different proteins comprised of albumins and globulins. The two-globulin fractions, arachin and non-arachin, comprise approximately 87% of the peanut seed proteins. Peanut worldwide is mainly used for oil production, consumption as raw, roasted, baked products, peanut butter, peanut flour, extender in meat product formulations, confectionary and soups. Peanut proteins have many properties such as good solubility, foaming, water/oil binding, emulsification that make them useful in various food products. Very limited studies have been carried out in peanut functional properties, which has been reviewed in the present article. Adequate modifications can be done in protein functionality that are influenced by pH, temperature, pressure etc. However, some individuals develop severe IgE-mediated allergies to peanut seed proteins. Thus, methods to improve nutrition and reduce allergenicity have also been discussed. Within the last decade, manipulations have been done to alter peanut chemistry and improve nutritional quality of peanuts and peanut products. Hence, improved comprehensive understanding of functional properties and nutritional chemistry of peanut proteins can generate better source of food grain to meet nutritional requirement of growing population. In the present review, composition of peanut seed proteins, functional properties, nutritional components and nutraceutical value have been discussed with respect to beneficial aspects to health, reducing hunger and usage in food end products.
Beyond Mapping Functions and Gradients
Authors: Barriot Jean-Pierre , Feng Peng
Published: April 2021

Mapping functions and gradients in GNSS and VLBI applications were introduced in the sixties and seventies to model the microwave propagation delays in the troposphere, and they were proven to be the perfect tools for these applications. In this work, we revisit the physical and mathematical basis of these tools in the context of meteorology and climate applications and propose an alternative approach for the wet delay part. This alternative approach is based on perturbation theory, where the base case is an exponential decay of the wet refractivity with altitude. The perturbation is modeled as a set of orthogonal functions in space and time, with the ability to separate eddy-scale variations of the wet refractivity.
Solar Thermal Conversion of Plasmonic Nanofluids: Fundamentals and Applications
Authors: Chen Meijie , Chen Xingyu , Wu Dongling
Published: April 2021

Plasmonic nanofluids show great interests for light-matter applications due to the tunable optical properties. By tuning the nanoparticle (NP) parameters (material, shape, and size) or base fluid, plasmonic nanofluids can either absorb or transmit the specific solar spectrum and thus making nanofluids ideal candidates for various solar applications, such as: full spectrum absorption in direct solar absorption collectors, selective absorption or transmittance in solar photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems, and local heating in the solar evaporation or nanobubble generation. In this chapter, we first summarized the preparation methods of plasmonic nanofluids, including the NP preparation based on the top-down and bottom-up, and the nanofluid preparation based on one-step and two-step. And then solar absorption performance of plasmonic nanofluids based on the theoretical and experimental design were discussed to broaden the absorption spectrum of plasmonic nanofluids. At last, solar thermal applications and challenges, including the applications of direct solar absorption collectors, solar PT/V systems, solar distillation, were introduced to promote the development of plasmon nanofluids.
Nemajetková újma při ublížení na zdraví a její vyrovnání prospěchem (compensatio lucri cum damno)
Authors: Smrž Ivo , Doležal Tomáš
Published: April 2021

Předmětem článku je problematika vyrovnání újmy prospěchem (compensatio lucri cum damno) v civilním deliktním právu v souvislosti s náhradou nemajetkové újmy při ublížení na zdraví, tedy v českém právu s bolestným, náhradou za ztížení společenského uplatnění a za další nemajetkové újmy. Nejprve bude v článku pojednáno obecně o úskalích souvisejících s vyrovnáním nemajetkové újmy na zdraví nabytým prospěchem. Následovat bude rozbor jednotlivých doktrinárních a judikatorních názorů a kritérií, podle nichž je možné relevantní případy posuzovat, včetně dostupné (německé a rakouské) judikatury. Závěr článku bude věnován typickým skupinám případů této oblasti v návaznosti na relevantní kritéria pro jejich posuzování.
In the News
Authors: Free David
Published: April 2021

Welcome to the April 2021 issue of C&RL News. In the latest installment of our International Insights column, “Learning from each other,” Diljit Singh of the University of Malaysia reflects on the role of academic libraries in the promotion of international understanding, especially in the time of COVID-19.
The time to lead: ACRL seeks nominees for section offices
Authors: Of College and Research Libraries Association
Published: April 2021

Standing for ACRL section office is an opportunity to become involved with important issues affecting academic and research librarians in the 21st century, gain leadership experience, and build ties with colleagues. It is also an opportunity to be of service to your ACRL section community, ensuring that it continues to nurture the development of new members and forge deeper connections to the profession.
People in the News
Authors: Galloway Ann-Christe
Published: April 2021

May Hong HaDuongLeslie SharpLuiza WainerChris GilmanRaymond PunChristopher Taijiro MurphyAnne Mackereth
Fast Facts
Authors: Pattillo Gary
Published: April 2021

College student enrollmentCollege student retentionSocial media usersIn-person classes and COVID-19Online harassment
Estimating the Value of a Depository Collection
Authors: Psyck Elizabeth
Published: April 2021

In the fall of 2018, I was asked to calculate the value of Grand Valley State University’s (GVSU) general collection (defined as everything except Special Collections and University Archives) as part of risk mitigation planning and updating insurance coverage. Records indicated that our collection’s value was last calculated 11 years earlier, and we lacked both written documentation and institutional memory regarding the process used to calculate that value. While there is a fairly significant body of knowledge around calculating the value of monographs, I struggled to find guidance on calculating the monetary value FDLP collections. There is a robust body of scholarship on promoting the intrinsic value of being a member of the FDLP to library administration and other stakeholders, but very few of them focus on detailed financial benefits of tangible collections.
Motivation factors of engineers in private sector construction industry
Authors: Sugathadasa P.T.Ranil , Lakshitha Mavin , Thibbotuwawa Amila , Bandara K.A.C.P.
Published: April 2021

Human resource in today's world is recognized as a strategic asset which drives organizations to superior in the industrial competition. With the effective identification of employee attributes, all the determinants of productivity can be obtained. This research assesses engineers' motivation factors in the construction industry's private sector and further examined their response to various attributes, including age and gender. A structured and self-administrated systematic qualitative approach was utilized to collect data from 120 engineers. Twenty-six motivational factors were grouped according to Maslow's need theory, and the paper presents a comprehensive analysis based on the relative importance and response percentages of the identified factors. The most influential need level among them was statically determined as the esteem needs to be followed by basic needs, belonging needs, safety needs, and self-actualization needs. Out of the twenty-six factors, good work discipline is the most influential motivational factor for female engineers, whereas company name and stability have become the most important factor for male engineers. A variation of those factors' relative importance is also determined for various age groups. These results would help senior management to formulate effective policies to improve employee retention in the construction industry
Optimizing the velocity of ring shape parameter for designing the nozzles using CFD
Authors: Younis Obai , Ahmed Reem , Hamdan Ali , Ahmed Dania
Published: April 2021

This study aims to optimize the velocity of ring shape parameter for designing the nozzles using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and investigated the flow in nozzles using ANSYS, Inc. simulation software. The model geometries were defined using ANSYS FLUENT-Design Modeler platform. All nozzles were designed on unstructured triangular elements comprising of 1200000 mesh nodes. The differential governing equations were applied in ANSYS FLUENT based on a finite volume method. The distance and dimensions of ring location significantly influence the velocity of water during flow where the maximum velocity at double rings reduces the surface area at distance of 7mm and 15mm and 2x2 mm dimensions. Considering 8, 10, and 12 bar liner proportions, there was an increase in the velocity at maximum points in ring shapes.
Assessment of the haematological profile after appendectomy using linear titanium stapler clips: An experimental study in rats
Authors: Bajrić Amela , Katica Muhamed , Katica Aida , Smajović Alisa , Sivić Mujo , Rukavina Dunja , Čelebićić Mirza , Zahirović Amir , Bajrić Ajla , Delibegović Samir
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The technique of closing the appendiceal stump using linear titanium stapler clips is being used more and more frequently in laparoscopic surgery, despite the good practice in the use of resorbable single endoloop vicryl ligatures and/or the non-resorbable plastic hem-o-lok clips. No light has been shed on potential undesirable effects on the haemathological profile of the use of titanium stapler clips. This experimental study aimed at establishing any possible undesirable effect of linear titanium stapler clips and single resorbable vicryl endoloop ligatures on the blood cells in rats following appendectomy. Methods: A total of 70 adult rats were used, divided into a control group (n = 10), and two experimental groups (n = 30 + 30). The appendices were removed from the rats in the first experimental group using titanium stapler clips and in the second experimental group the appendiceal stump using resorbable endoloop vicryl ligatures was closed. In both experimental groups three sub-groups with ten animals each were formed, from which peripheral blood from a tail vein on days 7, 28 and 60 was removed postoperatively, in order to assess the usual haematological parameters. Stained blood smears were also analysed in order to establish any poikilocytotic erythrocytes present. Results: In the first experimental group, with the titanium stapler clips, more than 25 % neutrophils were found on day 7, which is a significantly different result (p < 0.05) to the control group. In the second experimental group, there were more neutrophils than in the titanium stapler clips group, especially on days 7 and 60 and the results of these two sub-groups differ statistically significantly, p < 0.05. Hypochromia was found in the endoloop vicryl ligatures group, as well as in the titanium stapler clips sub-group on day 28, due to lower haemoglobin values which were significantly different to the control group, p < 0.05. Moderate levels of annulocytes, spherocytes and stomatocytes were found in most experimental groups. Conclusion: The results of this study favour the use of linear titanium stapler clips over resorbable single endoloop vicryl ligatures, because a less unfavourable effect was established on the blood cells of the experimental rats with their use.
Indian COVID-19 dynamics: Prediction using autoregressive integrated moving average modelling
Authors: Tak Amit , Dia Sunita , Dia Mahendra , Wehner Todd
Published: April 2021

Background: The forecasting of Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) dynamics is a centrepiece in evidence-based disease management. Numerous approaches that use mathematical modelling have been used to predict the outcome of the pandemic, including data-driven models, empirical and hybrid models. This study was aimed at prediction of COVID-19 evolution in India using a model based on autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA). Material and Methods: Real-time Indian data of cumulative cases and deaths of COVID-19 was retrieved from the Johns Hopkins dashboard. The dataset from 11 March 2020 to 25 June 2020 (n = 107 time points) was used to fit the autoregressive integrated moving average model. The model with minimum Akaike Information Criteria was used for forecasting. The predicted root mean square error (PredRMSE) and base root mean square error (BaseRMSE) were used to validate the model. Results: The ARIMA (1,3,2) and ARIMA (3,3,1) model fit best for cumulative cases and deaths, respectively, with minimum Akaike Information Criteria. The prediction of cumulative cases and deaths for next 10 days from 26 June 2020 to 5 July 2020 showed a trend toward continuous increment. The PredRMSE and BaseRMSE of ARIMA (1,3,2) model were 21,137 and 166,330, respectively. Similarly, PredRMSE and BaseRMSE of ARIMA (3,3,1) model were 668.7 and 5,431, respectively. Conclusion: It is proposed that data on COVID-19 be collected continuously, and that forecasting continue in real time. The COVID-19 forecast assist government in resource optimisation and evidence-based decision making for a subsequent state of affairs.
Body scrub containing Virgin Coconut Oil, coffee grounds (Coffea arabica Linn) and carbon active coconut shell (Activated carbon Cocos nucifera L) as a moisturiser and a skin brightener
Authors: Desi Eka , Djamil Ratna , Faizatun Faizatun
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) contains a lot of medium chain fatty acids. VCO combined with coffee grounds (Coffea arabica Linn) and activated carbon (Activated carbon Cocos nucifera L) has the potential to form a preparation that can moisturise and brighten the skin. The purpose of this study was to make cosmetic cleansing preparations containing three natural ingredients. Methods: This study evaluated the organoleptic body scrub preparations, homogeneity, dispensability and pH for three different formulations. In vivo test for irritation (oedema and erythema) was carried out on albino rabbits (n = 3) for each treatment group. Clinical irritation testing was performed on the forearm of healthy volunteers, 17 - 45 years of age with no history of allergies (n = 30). Determination of skin moisture content and melanin index was carried out as a measure of effectiveness. Results: Organoleptic and homogeneity tests showed that preparations had dark black colour, the distinctive smell of coffee, it was homogeneous, spread ability was in the range of 4 cm with the pH at a safe pH for the skin. Irritation results also did not show any oedema and erythema in in vivo testing. In clinical testing no irritation occurred by testing the body scrub samples. Body scrubs routinely used by volunteers for 2 months increased moisture on the skin as well as brightness (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Body scrub creams containing VCO, coffee grounds and activated carbon are preparations that have the potential to be cosmetic cleansers.
Biogas equipment for electricity and heating
Authors: Prvulović Slavica , Tolmac Jasna , Joksimović Milica , Dragičević Dafina
Published: April 2021

The paper gives an example of a biogas plant used for electricity and heat production. First, the role and importance of the biogas plant is presented, then an overview of the raw materials used for biogas production is given, a project of the biogas plant with constituent elements is given, as well as a description of the technological process and elements of the biogas plant. The calculation of biogas consumption for the needs of the power plant of 0.999 MW has also been performed.
Combined and comb RCIED activation messages jamming: Two different strategies with similar names
Authors: Lebl Aleksandar , Mileusnić Mladen , Radivojević Jovan
Published: April 2021

The characteristics of combined and comb jamming of RCIED activation messages are presented in this paper. Combined jamming signal is formed as the sum of swept sinusoidal signal and noise signal, while comb jamming signal means that its spectrum has a number of simultaneous discrete equally distant sinusoidal components, eventually further swept. The performances of combined jamming are compared to pure sweep and pure barrage jamming. They are determined on the base of originally developed simulation program implementation. Comb jamming is analyzed based on its generation from rectangular pulse train. It is presented how the selection of ratio of pulse duration to its period and the number of frequency components in comb signal influence the obtained jamming signal characteristics. It is proved that comb jamming is especially advantageous in relation to sweep jamming when RCIED activation message duration is significantly lower than the sweep cycle period.
Effect of sensitization on corrosion properties of TIG welded Al-Mg alloy
Authors: Radović Ljubica , Marinković Jelena
Published: April 2021

The effect of sensitization on the intergranular corrosion (IGC) of TIG welded AlMg6Mn was investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and corrosion NAMLT tests. The as-received hot rolled AlMg6Mn alloy plates with a thickness of 8 mm were welded by TIG welding with S-AlMg5 as a filler material. Specimens were sensitized at 100°C for 7 days. It was found that welded specimens are sensitive to IGC. The. mass loss in NAML test was 106.7 mg/cm². The welding increases the susceptibility to IGC, since the mass loss of the base metal at the same test was 70.7 mg/cm². The increase of susceptibility to IGC is attributed to significant continually precipitated Mg-rich phase along the grain boundaries during the sensitization treatment.
COMPRENDRE LES DÉFIS CONJUGAUX DES PARENTS D’ENFANTS AYANT UN TSA : PROPOSITION D’UN MODÈLE ÉCOSYSTÉMIQUE
Authors: Brien-Bérard1 Marie , des Rivières-Pigeon Catherine
Published: April 2021

Les parents d’enfants et d’adolescents ayant un TSA vivent de nombreux défis, notamment dans leur relation conjugale. L’analyse qualitative d’entrevues individuelles conduites auprès de 42 parents, a permis de révéler quatre défis conjugaux particuliers à l’autisme : une perception d’iniquité dans les contributions de chacun à la vie familiale, un décalage des perceptions et réactions entre les mères et les pères concernant l’autisme, une difficulté à avoir des moments de qualité en amoureux et des difficultés émotives et psychologiques. Le modèle écosystémique proposé permet de mieux comprendre ces défis et de les situer à l’intérieur du contexte familial et social.
The Presumption of Restraint and Implicit Law
Authors: Plaxton Michael
Published: April 2021

Appellate courts have frequently held that the ambit of criminal offences is more restricted than a plain reading of their text would suggest. In doing so, they have not relied on the canon of strict construction or the doctrine of de minimis non curat lex. They have instead applied what I have elsewhere called a “presumption of restraint”—a rebuttable presumption that offences provisions should not be read in such a way that they criminalize courses of action that are widely regarded by the public as benign or laudable.

Drawing on the work of Lon Fuller, I argue that the presumption of restraint is compatible with parliamentary sovereignty and purposive interpretation, and that it reflects ideas about the circumstances under which legislation is capable of providing guidance to the public.
Concevoir la matrice juridique dans un monde en constante évolution : essai sur l’approche fonctionnelle du droit
Authors: Martin-Bariteau Florian
Published: April 2021

L’approche fonctionnelle du droit, les principes d’équivalence fonctionnelle et de « neutralité » technologique sont trop souvent contraints au droit des technologies — et présentés comme y étant nés. Pourtant, l’approche et ses outils ont été développés bien avant les enjeux présentés par le numérique et présentent d’intéressantes perspectives pour concevoir le droit dans un monde en constante évolution. Le présent essai se propose ainsi de discuter et présenter l’approche fonctionnelle du droit. Loin de présenter une théorie du droit, notre objectif est de présenter une méthode qui nous semble à même d’établir des législations pérennes et stables, d’accueillir les évolutions sociétales et contextuelles, et d’appliquer les règles de manière à ne pas discriminer des situations fonctionnellement équivalentes.

Dans une première partie, cet essai présente les origines et fondations théoriques de l’approche fonctionnelle du droit. Dans la seconde partie, nous exposons l’approche fonctionnelle comme une manière de concevoir et de rédiger le droit afin de lui permettre d’accueillir le futur, notamment par l’entremise des notions fonctionnelles. Dans la troisième partie, nous étudions le volet interprétatif de l’approche fonctionnelle, qui offre des méthodes d’analyse, d’adaptation, d’application et de comparaison des règles de droit reposant sur l’équivalence fonctionnelle.
Les causes économiques et socio-politiques du passage de la régionalisation à la départementalisation en Haïti
Authors: Altenor Acheton
Published: April 2021

Les années 1970 marquèrent le début des préoccupations en matière de disparités spatiales et d’organisation rationnelle de l’espace en Haïti. Les différentes études qui furent menées au cours des années 1970 et au début des années 1980 soulignèrent la nécessité de faire le choix de l’approche régionale pour lutter contre les disparités spatiales à travers une politique d’aménagement du territoire centralisée. Cependant, environ six ans après l’élaboration du premier schéma national d’aménagement du terroir du pays, l’approche régionale fut abandonnée au profit de la départementalisation à partir du vote de la constitution du 29 mars 1987 qui prône la décentralisation territoriale. Cet article se propose d’expliquer les causes économiques et socio-politiques du passage de la régionalisation à la départementalisation en Haïti. Plus spécifiquement, l’auteur soutient qu’un ensemble d’événements du contexte économique et socio-politique mondial des années 1970 et 1980, combinés à une situation économique et socio-politique interne, ont rendu inenvisageable le maintien de l’approche régionale telle qu’elle a été conçue et expérimentée en Haïti.
Des ressources en ligne pour les jeunes en deuil : un projet innovant
Authors: Croyère Nicole , Tête Caroline
Published: April 2021

Cet article partage les résultats d’une étude menée auprès de jeunes en deuil. La mort, qui survient dans une étape de la vie déjà lourde de mutation, vient frapper le jeune dans son psychisme et dans sa vie quotidienne. Des ressources ont déjà été identifiées pour aider les professionnels de l’Éducation nationale à soutenir des élèves qui traversent un deuil. À partir de ces ressources, l’étude a eu pour but de repérer celles qui sont aidantes pour le jeune, comment et à quelles conditions. Quatre groupes de discussion – avec 13 jeunes en deuil et 28 témoins – et des entretiens téléphoniques avec des jeunes endeuillés ont fait émerger des propositions intéressantes sur ces outils et la manière de les proposer. Les jeunes ont exprimé leur reconnaissance pour l’intérêt porté sur ce sujet et la volonté de les impliquer dans la réflexion.
L’âge éphémère : les définitions de la jeunesse à la lumière du temps
Authors: Longo María Eugenia
Published: April 2021

Les études sur l’âge en sciences sociales ne problématisent pas toujours la manière de définir les frontières des groupes analysés. Des aspects biologiques, psychologiques, sociaux ou culturels sont mis de l’avant en oubliant les temporalités diverses – chronologique, sociale et vécue – que ces aspects mettent en jeu. À partir du cas spécifique de la jeunesse et en échappant à la dominance de la temporalité chronologique pour cerner ce groupe d’âge, le présent article souligne l’importance de prendre en compte des critères divers, susceptibles d’inclure théoriquement et méthodologiquement une pluralité de temporalités. Cette pluralité ressort des récits de jeunes argentins interrogés dans le cadre d’une recherche qualitative et longitudinale portant sur les parcours professionnels et biographiques. Ces récits montrent le positionnement singulier des jeunes par rapport à l'âge, la diversité des sens récurrents qu'ils lui attribuent, la combinaison des critères de définition, les différents rapports au temps et l'évolution de la définition de l'âge. Nous allons souligner à la fin l’intérêt des certains outils appropriés comme l’étude des phénomènes par les moments de choix ou le recours aux méthodes longitudinales.
Locating Feminist Progress in Professional Military Education
Authors: Brown Vanessa
Published: April 2021

A continuing debate in feminist scholarship on gender, security, and the military has been whether militaries can facilitate feminist progress and be forces for good. Feminists committed to working outside of militaries note that gender perspectives have often been used to advance the military’s goals of winning wars rather than commitments to feminist social transformation of military institutions and societies. However, influences from international normative frameworks on Women, Peace and Security; Canada’s feminist foreign policy; and an emphasis on diversity and inclusion within Canada’s Defence Policy have presented the Canadian Armed Forces with a solid platform from which it has begun to make change. The central tenets of this broad feminist platform have begun to permeate Canadian Professional Military Education (PME) through the collective efforts of educators, staff, and military students at Canada’s defence colleges. Drawing on a review of policy and programmes as well as a qualitative analysis of interviews with educators, staff, and military students, the article demonstrates that feminist transformational change by military members is possible by exploring its nascent reality. The article highlights the challenges and benefits of incorporating feminist perspectives in Canadian PME and demonstrates how and under what conditions military graduates with this education have begun to apply gender and cultural learning to make local feminist interventions both within and outside their institution. Ultimately, this research shows that collective efforts toward localized and incremental changes by military members are paving the way for meaningful feminist progress within the military.
Troubling Diversity and Inclusion: Racialized Women’s Experiences in the Canadian Armed Forces
Authors: George Tammy
Published: April 2021

This article centers on the lived experiences of racialized servicewomen in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Drawing on qualitative interviews with racialized servicewomen, I problematize the function of contemporary diversity and inclusion initiatives within the CAF. Focusing on the intersection of race and gender in their lives provides a way to think through structural inequities within the Canadian military. By examining how these structures of power operate within the CAF, we are better situated to understand how current diversity and inclusion initiatives work to consolidate hegemonic power. Informed by feminist critical race theories and critical geography, I trace the experiences of racialized servicewomen to understand how they make sense of their inclusion and belonging and how they assess their everyday experiences in the context of diversity and inclusion strategies presented by the CAF. Their lived experiences reveal the importance of race and gender in their lives, and expose the limits of diversity and inclusion practices, particularly, in their inability to address deeper structural issues of white supremacy, heteronormativity, and patriarchy within the CAF. While concepts of diversity and inclusion are typically concerned with the inclusion of those on the margins, this research suggests that we must seriously interrogate the theoretical, practical, and political work of diversity and inclusion initiatives within a multicultural context. Troubling inclusion and diversity in the CAF demands we disrupt structures of dominance and reflect on how to re/conceptualize and re/integrate meaningful difference more substantially throughout institutional life in multicultural Canada.
Transformation of camp system of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the USSR in accordance with the Decree of the Council of Ministers of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics “On the Changes to the Development Plan of 1953”
Authors: Vorobeva Ekaterina Evgenevna
Published: April 2021

The subject of this research is the examination of the first stage of reforms of camp economy: its transformation after adoption of the Decree “On the Changes to the Development Plan of 1953”. The goal of this work consists in determination of consequences of the large-scale reduction of the economic activity of the GULAG. The question of impact of the Decree on the Changes to the Development Plan upon economic activity of forced labor has not previously been the subject of a separate research. The author analyzes the incidence of reduction of economic activity of the GULAG, as well as generalizes the data on the activity and fate of the forced labor camps assigned to the constructions under liquidation. The conclusion is made that the changes to the development plan of 1953 became the first and crucial step in the GULAG reforms, which predetermines its final liquidation in 1960. After adoption of the decree, work was immediately halted on twenty largest construction objects of the GULAG, combined cost of which amounted to 49.2 billion rubles.
Uji Stabilitas Sediaan Mikroemulsi Menggunakan Hidrolisat Pati (DE 35–40) Sebagai Stabilizer
Authors:   Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Indonesia, Jufri Mahdi , Anwar Effionora , Utami Putri Margaining
Published: April 2021

Various solubilization techniques have been developed to enhance the bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs. One of the solubilization techniques is preparation of microemulsion. Microemulsion is a potential carrier in drug delivery system because it has many advantageous characteristics. In this research, hydrophobic drug was made in a dosage form of oil in water (O/W) microemulsion using ketoprofen as a model and investigated the influence of adding starch hydrolisates with dextrose equivalent (DE) 35-40 in variety concentrations (0,0%; 1,5%; 2,0%; 2,5%) to the stability of this microemulsion system. This microemulsion consisted of isopropyl miritate as oil phase, tween 80 and lechitin as surfactants, ethanol as cosurfactant, propylene glycol as cosolvent, starch hydrolisates DE 35Â–40 as stabilizer, and water as external phase. The evaluation was stability test both phisically and chemically. The result showed that the stability of microemulsion system increased significantly by adding starch hydrolisates DE 35-40 at 2,5%.
A Liberdade na República dos modernos: teoria e história do liberalismo político francês (1789-1848)
Authors: Cassimiro Paulo Henrique Paschoeto
Published: April 2021

Estuda o pensamento político na França, em um período crucial para a sociedade, compreendido entre a revolução de 1789 e a restauração, concluída em 1848 com a revolução de 22 de fevereiro. O autor discute a constituição de uma linguagem política liberal e de conceitos como república, democracia, soberania, liberdade, opinião pública e sociedade civil. Com este objetivo, analisa o pensamento político vigente, de intelectuais como Madame de Staël, Benjamin Constant, François Guizot, Visconde de Chateaubriand e Alexis de Tocqueville. O livro explicita pontos de consenso ou desacordo desses intérpretes da vida política e suscita reflexões sobre uma grande transformação operada na modernidade, com o aprofundamento do protagonismo do indivíduo na lógica de constituição do corpo político. É no interior desse conflito entre o social e o político que se distinguirá a experiência política que começa a tomar forma com a Revolução Francesa.
Lack of Excess Cardiovascular Risks among First Degree Relatives of Persons with Diabetes Mellitus: Is Lifestyle the Cause?
Authors: Raimi Taiwo H , Dele-Ojo Bolade Folasade , Dada Samuel A , Fadare Joseph O
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is rising worldwide with a projected increase of more than 50% in next three decades. Family History of Diabetes (FHD) is a recognised risk factor for DM, but development of DM in relatives of people with the disease, who carry susceptible genes, is dependent on interaction with other factors such as nutrition, physical activity and environment. Aim: To determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and impact of lifestyle on the CVD risk factors among adult Nigerian with FHD. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study among staff and students of Ekiti State University and Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. Eighty-six participants with FHD were age and sex-matched with 86 participants who had no FHD. Relevant demographic and lifestyle information were obtained, and clinical measurements of Body Mass Index (BMI), waist and hip circumferences and blood pressures were obtained by standard protocols. Fasting plasma glucose and lipid panel were determined. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation criteria (IDF). The clinical, laboratory and other variables of the people with FHD and those without FHD were compared with Pearson’s Chi-Square and Student’s t-test. Results: The age, clinical, anthropometric and laboratory parameters were similar between the two groups. Participants with FHD consume more poultry (17.6% vs 3.5%) and less red meat (27.1% vs 37.2%) than those without FHD (p=0.036), but the level of physical activity and consumption of fruits/vegetables, and smoking did not differ between the two groups. Metabolic syndrome was equally prevalent between the people with or without FHD (p=0.846). There was no significant difference (p>0.05), in the prevalence of CVD risk factors, such as hypertension, hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia, and obesity between the two groups. Conclusion: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was similar among people with or without FHD. Healthy lifestyle may explain the lack of excess CVD risk factors among people with FHD.
Secondary Hyperparathyroidism in Patients with Chronic Renal Failure Attending a Tertiary Health Care Hospital- A Cross-sectional Study in Saurashtra Region of Gujarat, India
Authors: Parmar Jaiminkumar Naginbhai , Panjwani Madhu , Bariya Bhaveshbhai Rameshbhai
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a known and early complication of Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) patients. Renal hyperparathyroidism leads to a host of bone and cardiovascular problems that ultimately can cause fractures, decreased quality of life, and an increased risk of death. Aim: To determine the hospital-prevalence of secondary hyperparathyroidism in CRF patient and establish the correlation between Serum Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) level, Serum calcium and Serum phosphorus level. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study conducted on 50 patients with CRF at Government Hospital of Bhavnagar, Gujarat. Detailed medical history and blood investigations were done as a tool for data collection. The study variables were described by using statistical parameters like proportion, mean and standard deviation. Correlation coefficient was used for analysing relationship between Serum PTH, calcium and phosphorus. Results: Mean age of the patients was 42.57 (SD 15.19) years with almost equal representation of both genders. Hypertension was the most common aetiological morbidity (62%) among the study participants followed by diabetes (20%). The hospital prevalence of secondary hyperparathyroidism was 86% in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Serum PTH negatively correlated with serum calcium and positively correlated with serum phosphorus with correlation coefficient value of -0.32 and 0.15, respectively. Conclusion: Parathyroid abnormalities and disorders of mineral metabolism are common among patients with CKD. Parathyroid abnormalities detected early may prevent future long term extra-renal complications.
Management of Locally Advanced Breast Cancer: Challenges and Treatment Outcomes in an Emerging Tertiary Hospital in South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Olaogun Julius Gbenga , Agodirin Olayide Suleiman , Etonyeaku Amarachukwu Chiduziem , Omonisi Abidemi Emmanuel , Joseph Olanrewaju
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Patients presenting with advanced breast cancer is a common phenomenon in Nigeria and many developing countries. At this stage, patients’ high expectations of survival conflict with the realities of the clinical outcome, thus creating enormous challenges to the attending surgeon practicing in a resource-poor setting. Aim: To evaluate patients who presented with Locally Advanced Breast Cancer (LABC), management challenges and treatment outcomes. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients with LABC at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti between January 2016 and December 2018. The variables of interest were patients’ demographics, findings of triple assessment, presentation, diagnosis, treatment intervals, the treatment received and follow-up outcomes. Results were presented using descriptive statistics mean±SD, median and Interquartile Range (IQR) Results: Seventy-eight patients had LABC in the study period. ages ranged from 24-94 years (mean 50.1±14.0). Total 77 (98.7%) were females and patients had breast lump ranging in size from 3-22 cm (mean 8.7±3.3, median 8, IQR 6-10). A vast majority of patients (84.6%) had tumour >5 cm in size. More than two-thirds (69.2%) were clinical stage IIIB. The duration of symptoms was 2-42 months (mean 10.1±7.8). The duration between presentation and cancer confirmation ranged from 7-140 days (mean 40.1±32.1, median 28.5, IQR 16.5-60.0). There was no facility to determine the receptor status of the tumours. Forty-six (59.0%) patients were routinely placed on tamoxifen (hormone therapy). Fifty-six (71.8%) patients had Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM). Only 30 (38.5%) completed the chemotherapy schedules while the rest had them haphazardly, mainly due to financial reasons. Five out of 22 (22.7%) referred for radiotherapy received it after an average of 5.2 months. Postmastectomy, 7 had loco-regional recurrence at one year and 15 within three years. Overall, 40 were alive, 16 were dead while 22 were lost to follow-up at three years. There was significant difference in 3-year survival among those who had chemotherapy and mastectomy compared to those who had just one of the two (Fisher’s-exact p=0.002). Conclusion: Delayed presentation, diagnostic and treatment inadequacies are the common challenges of management of LABC. Early diagnosis, adequate provision of diagnostic facilities and subsidisation of all aspects of care will be a reasonable panacea to some of the challenges.
Virtual Examination for Final Year Orthopaedics Postgraduate Residents during COVID-19: Is it a Viable Alternative?
Authors: Farooq Munir , Ringshawl Zubair Younis , Wani Mubashir Maqbool , Rakshan Ibreez
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Final year examinations for postgraduate residents of medical colleges in India were scheduled according to a defined protocol where doctor patient relationship was given utmost importance. Due to the currently prevailing pandemic, it has become extremely unsafe to conduct such an examination. So, an innovative method was devised by the Department of Orthopaedics, GMC Srinagar to ensure safety of the examiners and candidates as well as maintaining the required standard of the examination. This method was employed successfully in conducting exit examinations of final year postgraduate residents in this department. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness by a preformed questionnaire (developed by the faculty of Department of Orthopaedics, GMC Srinagar), Jammu and Kashmir, India of virtual pattern for exit examinations of final year postgraduate residents of medical colleges in India. Materials and Methods: A total number of 10 candidates appeared in the final year (MS Orthopaedics) examination. The conventional format which consisted of assigning patients to the candidates was replaced by a digital presentation format. In this format, the cases were prepared by the faculty, in the form of individual digital presentations for long as well as short cases. Presentation format consisted of detailed history, clinical examination, photographs of any deformity, elicited clinical signs and radiological imaging. A mock test was conducted four weeks before the date of the exam so that the candidates were familiar with the new virtual pattern. A questionnaire was designed to assess the acceptability of the virtual examination. It comprised of 10 questions and each answer was graded on a three point Likert point scale, producing a maximum score of 2 and a minimum score of 0 for each question. Results: Mean total scores for both the groups (examiners and candidates) were 18.25 and 16.9, respectively. The overall outcome regarding the responses was satisfactory in both the groups. The scoring was highest for the safety of the examination in examiner as well as the candidate group. In addition, overall satisfaction also scored the highest among the examiner group. Conclusion: This virtual pattern of examination presents a viable interim alternative to the traditional face to face examination, though it may not replace the latter. The time frame of the pandemic and its trend is difficult to imagine at this point of time, so, the virtual pattern might have to be used for future examinations as well. In addition, this pattern may even be utilised by other departments to frame their examinations.
Feasibility of Prophylactic Bilateral Salphingectomy during Vaginal Hysterectomy- A Prospective Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Gupta Nupur , Singh Ritu , Gupta Taru , Gupta Sangeeta , Nain Apoorva , Waghmare Surbhi
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Fallopian tubes are not commonly removed during vaginal hysterectomy because of inadequate surgical training or fear of increased morbidity. Aim: The primary objective of this study was to estimate the proportion of planned bilateral salpingectomies successfully completed vaginally. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, interventional longitudinal cohort study conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at ESI, PGIMSR, Basaidarapur, New Delhi. From December 2018 to November 2019, all women undergoing vaginal hysterectomy for benign conditions were offered prophylactic salpingectomy. Operative time, blood loss and reason for non completion for salpingectomy were recorded. Patients were followed-up for six weeks. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 17.0. Continuous variables were described with mean and the categorical variables were described with frequencies and percentages. Results: Thirty-five patients were enrolled in the study. The most common indications for vaginal hysterectomy for benign conditions included uterovaginal prolapse in 21 (60%) patients and adenomyosis and fibroids in 10 (30%) and 4 (10%) patients respectively. Of the 35 patients, vaginal salpingectomy was successful in 31 (88.5%) patients. Factors which led to non completion of salpingectomy were pelvic adhesions and atrophic ovaries in 2 (5.7%) patients each. Mean operating time for bilateral vaginal salpingectomy was 14.05±2.75 minutes. Mean Estimated Blood Loss (EBL) for bilateral salpingectomy was 19.86±6.88 mL. Conclusion: Bilateral prophylactic salpingectomy with vaginal hysterectomy for benign conditions is feasible in most of the patients. Routine salpingectomy should be offered to women undergoing vaginal hysterectomy for benign conditions to prevent risk of ovarian carcinoma in future.