bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shevchenko’s Grateful Readers from Dnieper Ukraine: Volodymyr Antonovych and Mykola Lysenko
Authors: Kharchuk Roxana
Published: March 2019

This paper outlines the portrait of Shevchenko’s reader from the Dnieper Ukraine in the first half of the 19th century based on the example of two prominent figures of Kyiv (Old) “Hromada” Volodymyr Antonovych and Mykola Lysenko. The first one represented the intellectuals from the Right Bank Ukraine, the second one ‒ from the Left Bank part. Under the influence of the Ukrainian national renaissance Volodymyr Antonovych became de-Polonized. He was the first political Ukrainian who understood the significance of Shevchenko’s poetry for the formation of Ukrainian national identity (this is evidenced by his memoirs and promoting Shevchenko’s works). According to M. Starytskyi, Mykola Lysenko perceived “Kobzar” passionately. Not only did he become de-Russificated under the influence of Shevchenko’s poetry, but also made the music to “Kobzar” a matter of his life.

The author of the paper emphasizes that Shevchenko’s works urged the intellectuals from the Right and Left Bank Ukraine, disconnected after the Truce of Andrusovo, to unite in “Hromada” movement. At the same time the Left Bank intellectuals dominated in “Hromada”. On the researcher’s opinion, this fact may be explained by the high level of education in the Cossak Hetmanate Ukraine. “Kobzar” was a cornerstone for the educational program of Ukrainian ‘narodnyks’ and this whole intellectual movement was based on it. Shevchenko’s works essentially contributed to spreading the Ukrainian idea in Galicia.

There is an opinion, that it was the Galician people who separated the Ukrainian national identity from Russian, while in the Left Bank Ukraine both of these identities coexisted. The author of the paper believes that the intellectuals in both parts of Ukraine in 1860s-1870s had an indistinct national identity. Unlike the Galicians the intellectuals from Ukraine under Russian rule, in particular Volodymyr Antonovych, could not speak openly about Ukrainian self-sufficiency. However Shevchenko (born in the Right Bank Ukraine) was first among Ukrainian intellectuals to voice a thesis about the separation of Ukrainians from Russians, about the distinctive Ukrainian history, language and literature that differ from the Russian ones.
Ivan Franko’s Sketch of Drama “To Brazil”: from History of Unfinished ‘Emigrational’ Text
Authors: Hnatiuk Mykhailo , Shostak Olha
Published: March 2019

The paper provides an analysis of I. Franko’s unfinished drama “To Brazil” that deals with the first wave of the Ukrainians’ emigration, especially events of Brazilian Rush in 1895–1897. Since the literary text is based on important historical process, the authors characterize the special features of emigration from East Halychyna to the South American country at the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The research explores I. Franko’s participation in emigration movement and outlines the background of the author’s interest in creating literary work on the theme of emigration. Franko’s sketch of emigrational drama is not lengthy. It contains the list of characters, the author’s stage instruction describing the place of the first action (tavern), the first scene, and the beginning of the second. However based on the first fragment the features of conflict between two contrary characters’ groups are already noticeable. These groups are presented by peasants as eventual emigrants and their antagonist agent Podorozhnyi who acts in cooperation with a subagent Jew renter Moshko. It looks like in the play “To Brazil” the writer intended to highlight only key issues of the problem, in particular the emigrational agitation. Franko’s unfinished drama about the emigration contributed to appearance of the poetic cycle “To Brazil” (1896–1898) where its traditional topoi became somewhat transformed (the characters of peasants-emigrants, the agent, the Jewish subagent, archduke Rudolf, and motive of cheating). The mentioned cycle has an evident theatrical tone due to the dominance of role characters in lyrics. However, in the authors’ opinion, the drama, if it had been finished, could have offered more significant psychological analysis and enriched the presentation of Brazilian discourse in I. Franko’s literary works about emigration.

I. Franko’s unfinished drama is interpreted not only within the author’s ‘emigrational’ text but also in the general context of the Ukrainian literature at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries dealing with emigration in Brazilian direction (L. Lopatynskyi’s dramas “Mother-in-law” (1899) and “To Brazil”; A. Chaikovskyi’s story “Brazilian Welfare” (1896); T. Borduliak’s short story “Ivan the Brazilian” (1899); D. Markovych’s short story “Brazilians” (1896), etc.). The mentioned works have their basis in traditional narrative with its fixed images (agent, emigrant, homeland, outland) and motives (departure agitation, travel obstacles, hard work abroad, comeback).
“Aeneid” by Anatolii Bazylevych: Picturesque Mythologization of Poem by Ivan Kotliarevskyi
Authors: Narivska Valentyna
Published: March 2019

The article analyzes 120 drawings by A. Bazylevych, the outstanding Ukrainian artist of the 20th century, created for the editions of “Aeneid” by I. Kotliarevskyi in 1969 and 1970. The subject matter is a look at the drawings in the status of a picturesque author’s myth. The skill of ‘visual intelligence’ of the artist is demonstrated in the picturesque original reading of the poem by  Kotliarevskyi as a phenomenon of the Baroque with expressive literary methods of ‘image turning’ that contributed to this process and acquired the significance of historical and literary classics. The assumption as for the artist’s mastering of the Baroque concept of Chyzhevskyi that was popular in the 1960s as well as the single-stage development of the Italian-Ukrainian culture of laughter (according to M. Bakhtin) and appreciation of picture poesis (poetry as painting, according to L. B. Alberti) are suggested. This interaction lined up the picturesque myth of Bazylevych through the artistic transformation techniques of ‘image turning’, burlesque travesty of ‘booklore’. This produced the formation of the mythological image of Aeneas as a ‘black knight’ (in the edition of 1969) in the traditions of Western European literature. The view of life through mythological red colour founded by the legendary book cover reveals the content of the ‘red Aeneas’, being signified with red clothing items, shoes, and above all the red Cossack heraldry on the flag, combining Aeneas with Trojan-Cossacks, representing the ‘red world’. Aenei-myth is considered as a Cossack Sorcerer due to the suffix specificity of H. Cohen and physical plastic with folk content that unite the Trojans-Cossacks with the gods.
Effect of work Environment and Cultural Organization through Job Satisfaction on Organization Performance PT. DHARMA Electrindo Manufacturing
Authors: Buhori Buhori
Published: March 2019

This study aimed to determine the effect of the work environment and organizational culture on organizational performance, determine the effect of the work environment on the performance of the organization, knowing the influence of organizational culture on organizational performance, determine the effect of job satisfaction on organizational performance, determine the effect of the work environment and organizational culture on performance through job satisfaction. The study was conducted on the organization of PT. Dharma Electrindo Manufacturing. Sampling using saturated samples involving 92 employees in all parts of the organization. Analysis of data using path analysis. Based on the analysis of the data found that the work environment and organizational culture affect the performance of the organization, work environment variables affect the performance of the organization, the variable of organizational culture affect the performance of the organization, job satisfaction variables affect the performance of the organization, work environment and organizational culture affect the performance organization through job satisfaction.
PENANGGULANGAN PELANGGARAN LALU LINTAS OLEH SATUAN LALU LINTAS POLRES BUKITINGGI TERHADAP PELAJAR
Authors: Yuserlina Anny
Published: March 2019

The use of motorbike vehicles in the city of Bukittinggi is currently very rapid, but not accompanied by an increase will be aware and safe driving, especially for students at the high school/vocational/equivalent level, many who do not meet the safety standards in driving as stipulated in legislation. Bukittinggi is one city that also has a lot of both public and private schools, this also causes the violations committed by the instructor, including not having a SIM (Driving License), not wearing a helmet and changing vehicle standards. The purpose of this paper is to find out and analyze the response to traffic violations committed by students by the Bukittinggi Police Traffic Unit. The problem in this study is how to overcome traffic violations committed by students by the Bukittinggi Police Traffic Unit. To make this system more systematic, the writer uses an empirical juridical approach. The results of this study indicate that in overcoming traffic violations committed by students, the Bukittinggi police traffic unit conducts preventive and respite prevention. The factors that become obstacles in overcoming traffic violations committed by students are: The problem of legal awareness and traffic legal compliance among students is still lacking. Therefore it is necessary to look at the form of response so that it can overcome traffic violations.
Structural Shifts in the Economy of the Amur Region
Authors: Vasilyeva A. V.
Published: March 2019

The article provides an economic and statistical review of the structural changes in the economy of the Amur Region from 2004 to 2016. An analysis of regional statistics on the industrial structure of gross value added (GVA) over the period under review allowed the author to identify quantitative parameters identifying economic activities that determine the characteristics of the modern economy of the region, and those that have not been developed.

Based on statistical calculations, it was concluded that leading economic activities in the Amur Region are «Transport and Communication», «Mining and quarrying», «Wholesale and retail trade».

The primary objective of the study was to determine the degree of intensity of structural shifts in the regional economy and identify the main trends of its development. The «absolute» gains and growth factors of the relative structural components of the GVA for the Amur Region for the period under review were calculated to characterize these structural changes.

According to the author, the calculations indicate the absence of a positive transformation in the structure of the regional economy. Thus, the intensive development of the commodity sectors of the economy continues, and the low growth rates of the manufacturing industries are noted. To carry out a summary assessment of structural changes in the regional economy, the author has calculated the linear and quadratic coefficients of the «absolute» structural changes. The results provide an opportunity to more accurately identify critical areas for investment, as well as support those economic activities that will allow the region to maximize its potential benefits.
What is Bringing the Revised European Statistics Code of Practice to Statistical Experience?
Authors: Sultanova A. A.
Published: March 2019

This article considers the main changes in the European Statistics Code of Practice (Code of Practice) made in 2017; it addresses noticeable processes of transformation of legal frameworks and practices in some countries of the former USSR. There is also a brief analysis of the new opportunities that bring the introduction of this standard.

The paper presents most relevant revisions and additions to the Code of Practice, made in 2017 by the European Statistical System Committee, the main differences of the new version of the Quality Declaration of the European Statistical System. The paper addresses the feasibility of practical implementation of some standards of the revised document as well as information about the processes of transformation of the legal basis and practices in some countries of the former USSR.

The author concludes that the Code of Practice may serve as a basis for national statistical services to establish quality policy while aligning this international standard with national conditions can be beneficial for the development of legal framework for the official statistics.
On the History of International Comparisons of National Income within the Framework of CMEA
Authors: Ivanov Yu. N. , Khomenko T. A.
Published: March 2019

The author considers the history of international comparisons of macroeconomic indicators carried out periodically from 1960th up to the end of the 1980th within the framework of the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (CMEA). As a result of these comparisons extensive information on economies of the countries of this organisation was collected and processed; it was used to establish economic cooperation between the CMEA members. It is noted that the CMEA program is in many respects similar to the ongoing Program of international comparisons of the GDP (ICP) that is carried out following a decision by the UN Statistical Commission. This mainly concerns the computation methods of purchasing power parities. At the same time, the article considers some peculiarities of the CMEA methodology.
Anniversary of Vladimir Leonidovich Sokolin
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: March 2019

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The Use of Mean Platelet Volume for Distinguishing the Causes of Thrombocytopenia in Adult Patients
Authors: Norrasethada Lalita , Khumpoo Wichan , Rattarittamrong Ekarat , Rattanathammethee Thanawat , Chai-Adisaksopha Chatree , Tantiworawit Adisak
Published: March 2019

Establishment and analysis of mean platelet volume (MPV) may be helpful in the discrimination between underproduction or over-destruction of platelets as the causes of thrombocytopenia. The primary objective is to find the cut-off point of MPV for distinguishing causes of thrombocytopenia. The secondary objective is to validate the cut-off value of the MPV by using bone marrow examination. Thrombocytopenic patients were enrolled in a training set and a receiving operating characteristics (ROC) curve was plotted to obtain the cut-off value of MPV. A validation set of patients was recruited to validate the cut-off value. The training set included 240 patients. Half with with underproductive (n = 120) and half with over-destructive thrombocytopenia (n = 120). The best cut-off value of MPV was 8.8 fL. The validation set included 119 patients in total, again in 2 groups, those with underproductive (n = 84) and those with overdestructive thrombocytopenia (n = 35). The sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV when MPV ≥ 8.8 fL indicating over-destructive thrombocytopenia were 77%, 89%, 89% and 77%, respectively. MPV is useful for differentiating the cause of thrombocytopenia. The value of MPV ≥ 8.8 fL has acceptable sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis of over-destructive thrombocytopenia.
A 9-year audit of the efficacy of diathermy for cystitis cystica
Authors: Chen Zhuoran , Bates Lucy , West Nevine Te , Moore Kate H.
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study was to assess whether cystoscopy with diathermy for cystitis cystica in patients with recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) is associated with decreased incidence of UTI. A retrospective 9-year audit was performed in a single urogynaecology centre. Patients with proven recurrent UTI and failed conservative therapy underwent cystoscopy with diathermy to cystitis cystica. The number of UTI’s 12- months pre and post cystoscopy was evaluated using women as their own controls with multivariant analysis of cofounding factors. Of 82 patients with recurrent UTI, 47 patients underwent cystoscopy with diathermy to cystitis cystica (median follow up 2 months [interquartile range, IQR6-31, one patient lost to follow up]). Pre-cystoscopy median UTI per annum was 3 per patient (IQR1-4). Post cystoscopy, median UTI for each woman was significantly reduced (median reduction -2[IQR-5-1], mean -2.14[95%CI -2.94, -1.34], P=<0.001). In the subgroup of patients who had previous vaginal mesh repair for prolapse (n=8) there was no significant benefit from diathermy (median reduction - 1.5[95%CI -0.988, 3.988], P=0.197). In conclusion, cystoscopy and diathermy of cystitis cystica was generally associated with significant reductions in UTI’s in the 12 months following diathermy.
Learning to teach writing through a distance education programme: Experiences of Rwandan secondary school English teachers
Authors: Niyibizi Epimaque , Sibomana Emmanuel , Perumal Juliet
Published: March 2019

Background: Writing is among the most important skills, and globally it has received more emphasis in literature on language teaching than reading, speaking and listening. However, a paucity of studies is observed in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in contexts where English is being taught as an additional or foreign language, as is the case in Rwanda. Research shows that learners who can write well in different genres and for different purposes tend to do well in all curriculum subjects and subsequently beyond school education. The key challenges are the inadequacy of materials and teachers’ inability to teach writing well, especially through distance education programmes.Objectives: This study investigates the effectiveness of materials used at the University of Rwanda-College of Education’s Distance Education programme to train high school teachers on writing pedagogy for English teaching.Method: The study adopted a qualitative approach to report on the findings from textual, document analysis of distance education materials, argumentative essays and focus group discussions with 80 of 599 in-service teachers, who responded to designed and redesigned sections on writing pedagogy.Results: The findings indicate that teachers’ knowledge and skills in both writing and writing pedagogy are not addressed effectively by the materials designed. This negatively affected the quality of their own writing abilities and those of their students.Conclusion: The article recommends reconceptualisation of distance education materials to equip in-service teachers with propositional knowledge and procedural knowledge on writing pedagogy.
Nutrient intake patterns and breast cancer risk among Jordanian women: a case-control study
Authors: Tayyem Reema Fayez , Mahmoud Reema Ibrahim , Shareef Muna Hussien , Marei Lina Salah
Published: March 2019

OBJECTIVES: Breast cancer (BC) is the most common type of cancer worldwide. Globally, BC is rapidly becoming a major common health problem among women. This study aimed to evaluate the association between nutrient intake patterns and BC risk among Jordanian women.METHODS: A total of 400 Jordanian women 20-65 years of age were recruited in this case-control study. Two hundred women recently diagnosed with BC were matched in age, income, and marital status to 200 BC-free women. A food frequency questionnaire was used to assess nutrient intake patterns.RESULTS: In this study, 3 nutrient intake patterns were identified: a high vitamin C and β-carotene nutrient intake pattern; a high calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D nutrient intake pattern; and a high-fat nutrient intake pattern. A significant increase in BC risk was associated with the high vitamin C and β-carotene nutrient pattern (the highest for the fourth quartile; odds ratio [OR], 5.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.11 to 13.91; ptrend=0.001). In the high calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D nutrient pattern, a significant inverse trend was detected for the risk of BC. The high-fat nutrient pattern showed a significant direct association with BC risk in the third (OR, 3.88; 95% CI, 1.58 to 9.51) and fourth (OR, 3.87; 95% CI, 1.53 to 9.77) quartiles (ptrend=0.001).CONCLUSIONS: A significant increase in BC risk was detected for the high vitamin C and β-carotene nutrient intake pattern and the high-fat nutrient intake pattern. However, for the high calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D nutrient intake pattern, a significant inverse trend was observed.
Klassmärkt barndom: En etnografisk studie om social ojämlikhet i förskoleklassen
Authors: Alm Lina , Odenbring Ylva
Published: March 2019

Att som barn växa upp under ekonomiskt svåra förhållanden innebär ökade risker för sämre hälsa, sämre utbildningsmöjligheter och begränsade möjligheter till att skapa sociala relationer med andra barn. Emellertid vet vi idag väldigt lite om hur aspekter kring social ojämlikhet konstrueras och reproduceras i pedagogiska verksamheter riktade till yngre barn. Föreliggande studie baseras på ett etnografiskt fältarbete i en förskoleklass belägen på landsbygden i södra delen av Sverige. Studiens resultat pekar på att sociala skillnader konstrueras i såväl den dagliga verksamhetens rutiner som i barnens interaktion med varandra. Analyserna pekar också på en nästintill omedvetenhet hos den pedagogiska personalen när det handlar om frågor som rör barns olika sociala uppväxtvillkor. Artikelförfattarna understryker betydelsen av att kritiskt studera aspekter rörande social ojämlikhet, detta inte minst för att förbättra förutsättningarna för en mer likvärdig utbildning för yngre barn.
English abstract
Classed childhood. An ethnographic study of social injustice in the preschool-class
As a child, growing up with economic hardship increases the risks of health related problems, reduces educational possibilities and limits social relations with other children. Within the field of early childhood education, there is also limited knowledge about how social injustice is constructed and reproduced. This study draws from ethnographic fieldwork in a preschool-class (children aged 6 years) located in a rural area in the southern part of Sweden. Findings indicate that social injustice is reproduced both in the preschool-class’ daily activities and in children’s interactions. The analysis also shows that practitioners seem unaware of the children’s different living conditions. The authors of this study underline the importance of investigating issues regarding social injustice in early childhood education – not at least to create possibilities of increasing equal education for younger children.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of Business and Management, Vol. 14 No. 4
Authors: Lee Stephen
Published: March 2019

Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of Business and Management, Vol. 14 No. 4, 2019
Dissemination of Health Information through Community Empowerment
Authors: Rodiah Saleha , Budiono Agung , Komariah Neneng
Published: March 2019

The process of information dissemination is a strategic study in information and communication science since a successful information dissemination process will enable to provide significant multiplying effects. This research aimed to identify community empowerment activities in the dissemination of health information to improve the quality of public health in Margajaya village, Ngamprah, West Bandung Regency. The study used a qualitative case study method, by collecting data through observation, unstructured interviews, and literature review. The dissemination of health information used an education strategy in its activities, namely the behavior change through means of education or health promotion, which are efforts or processes to foster awareness, willingness and ability to maintain and improve health. There was involvement of community empowerment agents who received training from relevant agencies, joined voluntarily and committed to participate in health development. The ex-tattoo community is a community that engages in the dissemination of health information. In addition to disposing of its negative image in the village, the community seeks to become a part of empowerment in improving the quality of public health.
The Institutional Challenges and Opportunities for Adopting Landscape-Based Storm Water Management Options in Informal Settlements - Dar Es Salaam City
Authors: Mtwangi-Limbumba Tatu , Herslund Lisa B. , Kombe Wilbard J.
Published: March 2019

Increased flooding caused by climate change impacts is a challenge for many cities both in developing and developed countries. The existing storm water drainage systems in place have to be physically constructed and expanded to meet the water run-off challenge. This is an expensive run-off management undertaking for resource poor countries such as Tanzania. Landscape based storm water management (LSM) is put forward as a sustainable option to manage storm water run-off and it also addresses water scarcity problems in under-served urban settlement. However its implementation in cities that are faced with informal residential development is challenging because among other things, LSM requires land for implementation as well as the collaboration of different institutions, disciplines and actors. Drawing from data and information obtained from the Water Resilient Green Cities Africa (WGA) Project in two cities of Africa, this paper explores the planning and institutional challenges for LSM in Dar es Salaam, a rapidly urbanising city. The paper also presents opportunities inherent in the process some of which suggest that local institutions offer a critical platform to collaboratively plan and implement LSM in rapidly urbanising cities.
ANN and DOE Analysis of Corrosion Resistance Inhibitor for Mild Steel Structures in Iraq
Authors: Yamin Jehad A A , Sheet Eiman Ali Eh. , Al-Amiery Ahmed A
Published: March 2019

Modelling of the effect of newly developed mild steel (MS) corrosion inhibitor in Iraq was investigated using artificial neural network (ANN) and Response Surface Methodology Design of Experiment (RSM-DOE) methods. The most significant parameters among the parameters studied and the optimum coating conditions was also investigated. Weight loss method (WLM) as well as Scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used in the experimental work to obtain data for modelling.

The inhibitor used was made in the center’s laboratories called N-(3-Nitrobenzylidene)-2-aminobenzothiazole. The MS specimens were tested for different immersion times and corrosive solution temperatures. Different concentrations of the inhibitor from of 0, to 1000 mg/L were used in the study.

The results showed that within the concentrations studied, the corrosion inhibition performance increased with increasing N-(3-Nitrobenzylidene)-2-aminobenzothiazole concentration. The ANN model proposed with the Gaussian activation function was accurate for both testing and validation up to 99%. The RSM method used indicated that comparing time and concentration alone, inhibitor concentration was more significant than the immersion time in the corrosive solution. On the other hand, the effect of temperature and time were opposite to one another.

While increasing time of immersion increased corrosion rate, temperature effect was the opposite.
The Inadequacy of the Existing International Maritime Transport Regimes for Modern Container Transport
Authors: Mahafzah Qais A. , Naser Mohammad Amin
Published: March 2019

This article intends to focus on and proves the inadequacy of the provisions that relate to containerization, mainly under the Rotterdam Rules, and partly under the Hague-Visby and Hamburg Rules since these later Rules have dealt with containerization incidentally. The Rotterdam Rules aim to establish a uniform legal regime which takes into account modern transport practices, including containerization. Such aim only seems to be partially achieved. The Rules has a partial door-to-door scope and do not provide a multimodal scope. Although the Rules have given great attention to the effect of containers in transport, most of the provisions relating to container carriage are not necessary or confusing.
UK universities compliance with the Concordat to Support Research Integrity: findings from cross-sectional time-series
Authors: Wager Elizabeth
Published: March 2019

Background. The Concordat to Support Research Integrity published in 2012 recommends that UK research institutions should provide a named point of contact to receive concerns about research integrity (RI). The Concordat also requires institutions to publish annual RI statements.

Objective. To see whether contact information for a staff member responsible for RI was readily available from UK university websites and to see how many universities published annual RI statements.

Methods. UK university websites were searched in mid-2012, mid-2014 and mid-2018. The availability of contact details for RI inquiries, other information about RI and, specifically, an annual RI statement, was recorded.

Results. The proportion of UK universities publishing an email address for RI inquiries rose from 23% in 2012 (31/134) to 55% in 2018. The same proportion (55%) published at least one annual RI statement in 2018, but only 3 provided statements for all years from 2012/13. There was great variation in the titles used for the staff member with responsibility from RI which made searching difficult.

Conclusion. Over 6 years after the publication of the Concordat to Support Research Integrity, nearly half of UK universities are not complying with all its recommendations and do not provide contact details for a staff member with responsibility for RI or an annual statement.
ECOLOGICAL BENEFITS OF GREENING BUILDING ENVELOPES
Authors: Gavrilovic Dragan , Stamenković Marija
Published: March 2019

Extensive urban development brings many adverse impacts which are reflected in degradation of quality of life and health of residents. Some of these impacts are related to increasing impermeable surfaces in city centers, made of concrete, asphalt, glass, etc. From environmental point of view, negative effects of urbanization include increased temperature and the effect of urban heat island which affects global warming, air pollution, flood risks and reduction of space for plants and animals. One of the ways to mitigate these effects is greening building envelope. This paper deals with ecological benefits which can be achieved by covering the building surfaces with greenery. Comparative analyses of buildings covered with greenery and with conventional materials were done based on data from certain studies conducted abroad. The results shown in the paper indicate a significant improvement in the living conditions in green covered buildings, and confirm that integration of vegetation represents a sustainable approach for the envelope of new and existing buildings.
Key words: green roofs, green facades, urban environment, ecological benefits, sustainable design.
Female Genital Mutilation and Obstetric Outcomes in the Far-North Region, Cameroon: A Case - Control Study
Authors: Halle-Ekane G. E. , Guidona N. M. N. , Mbuagbaw L. T. , Mengouo A. M. , Mbu R. E.
Published: March 2019

Various forms of Female Genital Mutilations (FGMs) have been performed for several years and continue to be practiced with serious consequences.

Aims: The study aimed at assessing the socio-demographic profile, prevalence, types of FGM, and associated obstetric outcomes in the Far North Region, Cameroon.

Study Design: Case-control study.

Place and Duration of Study: Four health facilities in the aforementioned region from 4th February, 2017 to 28th April 2017.

Methods: We included 213 parturients matched for age and parity in a proportion of 1:2 (71 with FGM and 142 counterparts). Data was collected on their socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of FGM and obstetric outcomes. Each parturient’s labor was monitored using a partograph and intermittent fetal heart rate auscultation. The mother-neonate dyads were followed up until discharge from the hospital. Data were analyzed using Epi Info™ version 7.

Results: The mean age of parturients was 23.8 years (SD: 5.8 years). The prevalence of FGM was 28.7%. Most participants had FGM before the age of ten for the following reasons: cultural, marital, social acceptability and suppression of sexual desires. Female genital mutilation was significantly associated with Caesarian section (RR:2.91; 95% CI: 1.43-5.93; p=0.002), episiotomy (RR 8.0: 95% CI 1.56-17.26) P=0.03), perineal tears (RR: 3.67; 95% CI: 1.93-6.98; p<0.001), prolonged labor (RR:2.7; 95% CI 1.44-5.09; p<0.001), and neonatal resuscitation (RR:.44; 95% CI: 1.59-12.18; p=0.002). However, only perineal tears (Adjusted RR:5.58; 95% CI: 2.49-12.53; p<0.001) and episiotomy (Adjusted RR 11.52; 95% CI: 1.16-114.69; p= 0.03) were independently associated with FGM on multivariate analysis.

Conclusion: The prevalence of FGM was high. FGMs were associated with maternal and fetal morbidity. Therefore, mass sensitization on the consequences of FGM, utilization of ANC services and health facility child births should be encouraged.
Influence of Pesticides on Azospirillum sp. Population and Its Nitrogen Fixation in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Soils
Authors: Madhavi A. , Anuradha B. , Rangaswamy V.
Published: March 2019

Aim: To study the impact of selected pesticides on Azospirillum sp. population and its nitrification in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) soils.  

Study Design: Black clay and red sandy loam soils with known pesticide history were collected from groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) cultivated fields and were investigated to elucidate the impact of pesticides on Azospirillum sp. population and its nitrification in both the soils.

Place and Duration of Study: The soil samples were collected from groundnut cultivated fields of Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh (A.P) and the study was carried out for 3 months.

Methodology: Ten gram portions of each soil sample were placed in (25 × 150 mm) test tubes and treated with different concentrations of pesticides, (10, 25, 50, 75 and 100 µg g-1 soil) which were equivalent - 1.0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 kg ha-1. Soil samples without pesticides served as controls. The soils with and without pesticides were incubated at room temperature (28 ± 4°C) in the laboratory and moisture content was maintained at 60% water holding capacity (WHC) throughout the experimental period. After 7 and 14 days of incubation, triplicate soil samples were used to estimate the population size of Azospirillum sp. using the MPN method. Five ml aliquots of semi – solid malate medium were added to five MPN tubes and inoculated with 0.5 ml of a soil suspension from 10-1 to 10-5 soil dilutions, and incubated at 37°C.

Results: The population of Azospirillum sp. in both soils increased when pesticides were applied @ 2.5 - 5.0 kg ha-1 and incongruity, when the pesticides concentration increased from 7.5 - 10.0 kg ha-1, the Azospirillum sp. population gradually decreased in both soils.

Conclusion: The present study aimed at determining the influence of selected pesticides such as oxydemeton methyl, emamectin benzoate, dithane Z-78 and benomyl on the population of Azospirillum sp. and nitrogen fixation in black clay soil and red sandy loam soils in groundnut cultivated fields of Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh, India. Insecticides and fungicides applied up to 5.0 kg ha-1, enhanced the population of Azospirillum sp. and its nitrogen fixation also increased significantly after 7 and 14 days of incubation in both soils. However, the population of Azospirillum sp., decreased with increasing period of soil incubation in both treated and untreated soils.
On Radiative Transfer and Gray Body Parameter for Partially Transparent Media
Authors: Manuilov K.
Published: March 2019

We obtained a solution to radiative heat transfer equations, which describes a multi-layer gray semi-transparent medium in terms of an opaque body. It is shown that the thermal disturbance between the layers of a medium qualitatively changes its optical properties. We introduced a gray body parameter, which allowed us to describe multilayer gray semi-transparent media with low thermal conductivity. We propose a method for calculating heat transfer by thermal radiation in a gray semi-transparent medium and present the results of radiative heat transfer calculations for screen-vacuum and powder insulation materials as examples of such media.
Combined plasma and tissue genotyping of EGFR T790M benefits NSCLC patients: a real‐world clinical example
Authors: Wei Bing , Zhao Chengzhi , Li Jun , Zhao Jiuzhou , Ren Pengfei , Yang Ke , Yan Chi , Sun Rui , Ma Jie , Guo Yongjun
Published: March 2019

Acquired resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) is a prevalent clinical problem in the management of advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with TKI‐sensitizing mutations in the EGFR gene. Third‐generation EGFR‐TKIs have demonstrated potent activity against TKI resistance mediated by the EGFR T790M mutation, and standard rebiopsy and liquid biopsy are utilized to assess the T790M status of the NSCLC patients who experienced progressive disease (PD). Here, we conducted a retrospective study to assess 375 patients whose initial biopsy indicated a TKI‐sensitizing mutation (either EGFR 19del or L858R) and who developed PD after treatment with first‐generation TKIs, and assayed for T790M status. We adopted a combination approach in which tissue rebiopsy is preferred, utilizing liquid biopsies when tissue rebiopsy is not feasible. We analyzed the potential predictive clinical factors affecting T790M detection, evaluated the standard rebiopsy and liquid biopsy methods in T790M genotyping, and reported the clinical performance of osimertinib. Our results suggested that primary EGFR 19del, brain metastasis, and longer progression‐free survival of initial EGFR‐TKI treatment are associated with acquired T790M resistance. T790M‐positive patients significantly benefited from osimertinib. In conclusion, the real‐world clinical adoption of the combination approach with both tissue rebiopsy and liquid biopsy for T790M genotyping may provide significant benefits to patients who have developed PD after first‐generation TKI treatments.
Clinical relevance of circulating MACC1 and S100A4 transcripts for ovarian cancer
Authors: Link Theresa , Kuhlmann Jan Dominik , Kobelt Dennis , Herrmann Pia , Vassileva Yana D. , Kramer Michael , Frank Kerstin , Göckenjan Maren , Wimberger Pauline , Stein Ulrike
Published: March 2019

Metastasis‐associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) and S100 calcium‐binding protein A4 (S100A4) are prominent inducers of tumor progression and metastasis. For the first time, we systematically tracked circulating serum levels of MACC1 and S100A4 transcripts in the course of surgery and chemotherapy and analyzed their clinical relevance for ovarian cancer. MACC1 and S100A4 transcripts were quantified in a total of 318 serum samples from 79 ovarian cancer patients by RT‐qPCR and digital droplet PCR, respectively. MACC1 and S100A4 transcripts were significantly elevated in serum of ovarian cancer patients, compared to healthy controls (P = 0.024; P < 0.001). At primary diagnosis, high levels of MACC1 or S100A4 correlated with advanced FIGO stage (P = 0.042; P = 0.008), predicted suboptimal debulking surgery and indicated shorter progression‐free survival (PFS; P = 0.003; P = 0.001) and overall survival (OS; P = 0.001; P = 0.002). This is the first study in ovarian cancer to propose circulating MACC1 and S100A4 transcripts as potential liquid biopsy markers.
Downregulation of CHIP promotes ovarian cancer metastasis by inducing Snail‐mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Park Sun‐Mi , Park Seung‐Ho , Ryu Ki‐Jun , Kim In‐Kyu , Han Hyeontak , Kim Hyo‐Jin , Kim Seon‐Hee , Hong Keun‐Seok , Kim Hyemin , Kim Minju , Cho Bok Im , Heo Jeong Doo , Kim Na Hyun , Hwang Eun Mi , Park Jae‐Yong , Yook Jong In , Cho Hee Jun , Hwangbo Cheol , Kim Kwang Dong , Song Hoseok , Yoo Jiyun
Published: March 2019

The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a pivotal role in the conversion of early‐stage tumors into invasive malignancies. The transcription factor Snail, an extremely unstable protein whose subcellular levels are regulated by many E3 ubiquitin ligases, promotes EMT as well as associated pathological characteristics including migration, invasion, and metastasis. Through yeast two‐hybrid screening, we identified the carboxyl terminus of Hsc70‐interacting protein (CHIP) as a novel Snail ubiquitin ligase that interacts with Snail to induce ubiquitin‐mediated proteasomal degradation. Inhibition of CHIP expression increases Snail protein levels, induces EMT, and enhances in vitro migration and invasion as well as in vivo metastasis of ovarian cancer cells. In turn, Snail depletion abrogates all phenomena induced by CHIP depletion. Finally, Snail and CHIP expression is inversely correlated in ovarian tumor tissues. These findings establish the CHIP–Snail axis as a post‐translational mechanism of EMT and cancer metastasis regulation.
Inhibition of glycolysis disrupts cellular antioxidant defense and sensitizes HepG2 cells to doxorubicin treatment
Authors: Korga Agnieszka , Ostrowska Marta , Iwan Magdalena , Herbet Mariola , Dudka Jaroslaw
Published: March 2019

Increased glucose consumption is a known hallmark of cancer cells. Increased glycolysis provides ATP, reducing agents and substrates for macromolecular synthesis in intensely dividing cells. Therefore, inhibition of glycolysis is one strategy in anticancer therapy as well as in improved efficacy of conventional anticancer chemotherapeutic agents. One such agent is doxorubicin (DOX), but the mechanism of sensitization of tumor cells to DOX by inhibition of glycolysis has not been fully elucidated. As oxidative stress is an important phenomenon accompanying DOX action and antioxidant defense is closely related to energy metabolism, the aim of the study was the evaluation of oxidative stress markers and antioxidant abilities of cancer cells treated with DOX while glycolysis is inhibited. HepG2 cells were treated with DOX and one of three glycolysis inhibitors: 2‐deoxyglucose, dichloroacetate or 3‐promopyruvate. To evaluate the possible interaction mechanisms, we assessed mRNA expression of selected genes related to energy metabolism and antioxidant defense; oxidative stress markers; and reduced glutathione (GSH) and NADPH levels. Additionally, glutamine consumption was measured. It was demonstrated that the chemotherapeutic agent and glycolysis inhibitors induced oxidative stress and associated damage in HepG2 cells. However, simultaneous treatment with both agents resulted in even greater lipid peroxidation and a significant reduction in GSH and NADPH levels. Moreover, in the presence of the drug and an inhibitor, HepG2 cells had a reduced ability to take up glutamine. These results indicated that cells treated with DOX while glycolysis was inhibited had significantly reduced ability to produce NADPH and antioxidant defenses.
Patients’ Perspectives and Experience of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Thematic Synthesis of Qualitative Studies
Authors: Sumpton Daniel , Kelly Ayano , Tunnicliffe David J. , Craig Jonathan C. , Hassett Geraldine , Chessman Diana , Tong Allison
Published: March 2019

Objective

To describe the range and depth of perspectives and experiences of patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis to inform gaps in patient‐centered care.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL to April 2018. Thematic synthesis was used to analyze the findings.

Results

We included 56 studies involving 1,484 adult patients with psoriasis (n = 1,147) and psoriatic arthritis (n = 337). Six themes (and subthemes) were identified: suffering uncontrollable and ongoing upheaval (dictating life choices and course, disrupting family and social roles, limited by debilitating symptoms, unstoppable and far‐reaching fatigue), weighed down by mental load (anxiety provoked by the volatility of symptoms, dreading deterioration, struggling with unrecognized distress, helpless and nihilistic), harboring shame and judgement (marked as unhygienic and contagious, rejected and isolated, hiding away and resenting own appearance, pain and embarrassment in intimacy), demoralized by inadequacies and burden of therapy (disappointed by unmet expectations of treatment benefit, daily drudgery, deterred by unpalatable or inconvenient treatments, disempowered by lack of personalized care), gaining control (making sense of the condition, accepting a new health status, regaining independence and normality, attuning to the body), and making confident treatment decisions (trading off perceptible benefits against safety and convenience, relying on family input, seeking empowering and reassuring relationships).

Conclusion

Patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis contend with disruption in their functioning, roles, and life course and have unmet expectations about treatment. Enhanced therapeutic relationships, addressing treatment expectations and supporting psychosocial needs may improve satisfaction and outcomes.
Body‐Self Unity With a New Hip or Knee: Understanding Total Joint Replacement Within an Embodiment Framework
Authors: Lape Emma C. , Hudak Pamela , Davis Aileen M. , Katz Jeffrey N.
Published: March 2019

Medical research increasingly makes use of embodiment concepts to understand how illness disrupts unity of body and self. However, few have applied embodiment concepts in total joint replacement (TJR), an effective treatment for end‐stage arthritis. In considering why a troubling proportion of TJR recipients have continued pain and functional limitation, we ask: what role might be played by the embodied experience of living with an implant? Relevant theoretical models and prior research on embodiment in musculoskeletal health and transplantation are reviewed. Our findings suggest a research agenda with implications for addressing suboptimal outcomes in TJR.
Bubble Column Enables Higher Reaction Rate for Deracemization of (R,S)‐1‐Phenylethanol with Coupled Alcohol Dehydrogenase/NADH Oxidase System
Authors: Dias Gomes Mafalda , Bommarius Bettina R. , Anderson Shelby R. , Feske Brent D. , Woodley John M. , Bommarius Andreas S.
Published: March 2019

One of the major drawbacks for many biocatalysts is their poor stability under industrial process conditions. A particularly interesting example is the supply of oxygen to biooxidation reactions, catalyzed by oxidases, oxygenases or alcohol dehydrogenases coupled with NAD(P)H (reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) oxidases, which all require the continuous supply of molecular oxygen as an oxidant or electron acceptor. Commonly, oxygen is supplied to the bioreactor by air sparging. To ensure sufficient oxygen transfer from the gas to the liquid phase, stirring is essential to disperse the gas bubbles and create high gas‐liquid interfacial area. Studies indicate that the presence of gas‐liquid interface induces enzyme deactivation by protein unfolding which then readily aggregates and can subsequently precipitate. This contribution has examined the effects of stirring and the presence of gas‐liquid interface on the kinetic stability of water‐forming NAD(P)H oxidase (NOX) (EC1.6.3.2).

These effects were studied separately and a bubble column apparatus was successfully employed to investigate the influence of gas‐liquid interfaces on enzyme stability. Results showed that NOX deactivation increases in proportion to the gas‐liquid interfacial area. While air enhances the rate of stability loss compared to nitrogen, stirring causes faster loss of activity in comparison to a bubble column. Finally, deracemization of 1‐phenylethanol, using a coupled alcohol dehydrogenase /NADH oxidase system (ADH/NOX), proceeded with a higher rate in the bubble column than in quiescent or in a stirred solution, although, inactivation was also accelerated in the bubble column over a quiescent solution.

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