bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of pine self-afforestation on podzolization process in semi-natural grassland areas of Volyn Polissya (Ukraine)
Authors:   Institute of Ecology of the Carpathians, NAS of Ukraine, Kozlovskyy V. , Romanyuk N. ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine
Published: July 2021

Background. Several theories have been proposed to explain the podzolization process. Currently, the role of organic matter in both weathering and immobilization in the illuvial horizon is clearly stated. The origin of soil organic matter and, accordingly, the various mechanisms of its influence on the soil material, create the basis of these theories. We assume that in the base-poor sandy soils under rich herbaceous vegetation with a well developed sod layer, the process of podzolization may also depend on CO2 soil formation agent . Materials and Methods. Four localities along a Pinus sylvestris L. self-afforestation chronosequence with pine stands of 10, 20, 40 yrs and an adjacent semi-natural grassland area were investigated in order to determine the patterns of podzolization process on sandy glacial till deposits. Soil pH, exchangeable base, soil cation exchange capacity, total content of soil organic carbon, amorphous Fe, Si and Al and total contents of Al, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu, Co, Ni, Na, K were determined. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using LibreOffice for Linux. Results. During the pine succession, a previously well differentiated into horizons podzolic soil under the grassland vegetation community gradually degrades. Previously well-defined albic and spodic diagnostic horizons disappear, the soil profile becomes more acidic, the soil organic carbon, the base cation content and the base cation saturation decrease, the leaching rate of aluminium and iron increases. Secondary podzolization features in the soil profiles were detected 40 years after the onset of afforestation. The podzolization has not been intensive enough to develop fully fledged albic and spodic diagnostic horizons over such a short period. Conclusions. Based on the obtained soil morphological, physical and chemical properties, three most important agents of podzolization are proposed as principal for the studied area. The main gent under pine forest is fulvic acids that are produced during coniferous litter decomposition. Low molecular weight organic acids and carbon dioxide produced to the rhizosphere by roots and a root associated microbiota are mainly involved in the podzolization process under the grassland ecosystem.
Prospects for the Development of Payment Institutions in Russia
Authors:   Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russian Federation, Dostov Victor L. , Shust Pavel M. ,   Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russian Federation, Pimenov Pavel V. ,   Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russian Federation
Published: July 2021

The current structure of the Russian payment market is almost ten years old—in the summer of 2011,the Federal Law “On the National Payment System” was adopted. This was the start of a “Russian noncash miracle,” a fantastic increase of non-cash payments in retail turnover. Having solved numerous problems, the new market structure today also needs to be updated. During this decade, the range of challenges faced by the industry and the regulator has changed significantly: those are unbalanced competition, the presence of types of companies with similar functionality on the market, complex licensing procedures, and so on. This article aims to consider a new perspective of market transformation based on the introduction of payment institution into the Russian system. The article analyzes the current and future types of payments; examines in detail the structure of the Russian payment market, its advantages and disadvantages; and describes the payment institution, identifying the risks and prospects of its introduction into Russian banking practice. The authors suggest the feasibility of introducing payment institutions as a more functional version of the payment agents operating in Russia to simplify the complex structure of payment service providers. Payment institutions should become conduits for new payment services (such as PISP and AISP). In addition, payment institutions should be supervised by the regulator. At the same time, the introduction of a new type of companies should not put existing players at a disadvantage. Therefore, existing credit institutions and payment agents should have the ability to easily change their status and transform into payment institutions and back again.
The relationship between international trade and exchange rate variability: A review study
Authors: Huynh Huynh Thi Dieu Linh
Published: July 2021

The paper was conducted to survey and review the effects of exchange rate volatility on trade performance. Since the last review articles by McKenzie and Bahmani-Oskooe and Hegerty, the literature has experienced a surge in the number of articles. Many of the recent studies have been empirical in nature and these deserve specific attention. There is often more than one measure of volatility applied in a study, and some new measures of exchange rate volatility are introduced. Although there are relatively new econometric models being applied in this research area, the determinants of trade performance in recent studies are simple. In addition, the number of studies using bilateral trade data levels has increased over time. Although a large number of studies are reviewed in this study, existing empirical evidence on the trade effects of exchange rate volatility is generally inconclusive. These new contributions set the stage for this review.
Note on abstract elliptic equations with nonlocal boundary in time condition
Authors: HO THİ Kim Van
Published: July 2021

Our main purpose of this paper is to study the linear elliptic equation with nonlocal in time condition. The problem is taken in abstract Hilbert space $H$. In concrete form, the elliptic equation has been extensively investigated in many practical areas, such as geophysics, plasma physics, bioelectric field problems. Under some assumptions of the input data, we obtain the well-posed result for the solution. In the first part, we study the regularity of the solution. In the second part, we investigate the asymptotic behaviour when some paramteres tend to zero.
Predictive analytics as a tool of controlling in decision making process in the marina industry
Authors: Lebefromm Uwe
Published: July 2021

This paper is dealing with predictive modeling based on predictive analytics using computer application system and the usage of the prediction results for decision-making processes. Usually the prediction is based on the experience of decision makers, but the aim of this study is to explain and proof higher predictive efficiency when using predictive analytics based on machine learning as well as more accurate future-oriented business decisions. The marina industry in Croatia is used for this research because of its complexity and necessity to predict future events that influence company success with reliable accuracy. The information for decision-making were obtained from the customer database recorded manually over the past 30 years and according to data from December 2020. The optimized prediction by the vector machine and statistical theory based on the Bayes theorem is used to support more accurate prediction. The quantitative research was carried out using the SAP Predictive Analytics (SAP PA) computer application. The results of prediction models are a perfect basis for making future-oriented strategic and tactical decisions. This research proves that, with knowledge obtained from the results of prediction models it is possible to improve the identification of the target group among applicants and customers that contribute to company success. The research provides a theoretical and an empirical contribution in the usage of predictive analytics in the marina industry in Croatia.
Analysis of customer satisfaction in freight forwarder industry using Servqual, IPA and FMEA methods
Authors: Nurwahyudi Nurwahyudi , Rimawan Erry
Published: July 2021

A company service’s higher quality is indicated by its service performance’s effectiveness and efficiency. This can increase customers’ satisfaction, thus leads to the increase of company income. This research objective was to know the effects of 5 dimensions constructing service quality, including the effects of service quality on customers’ satisfaction in freight forwarder industry. Current research collected data through purposive sampling, by distributing questionnaire to 86 customers continued by data processing by measuring the gap and tested statistically using SmartPLS program, priority scale mapping using Importance Performance Analysis, and improvement using Failure Mode and Effect Analysis. The first findings obtained from this research was analysis result using IPA discovering 10 indicators which require improvement in which 7 indicators were found the same through GAP measurement. The second finding was the biggest component which needs improvement in freight forwarder service in Indonesia, which is reliability dimension. Therefore, concerns need to be given to these matters so that more accurate and reliable service can be provided.
Comparative analysis and estimation of amounts of exhaust gas waste heat from the Tier III-compliant dual-fuel low-speed marine main engines
Authors: Korlak Piotr Kamil
Published: July 2021

Existing and future IMO restrictions on emission of harmful substances contained in exhaust gas have introduced an obligation to implement technical solutions to reduce NOX, SOX and CO2 emissions. Reduction in NOX and SOX emissions has been achieved by systems (i.e. SCR and EGR) ensuring Tier III-compliant exhaust gas composition. SCR and EGR systems have also affected the amount of exhaust gas waste heat. Therefore reduction in CO2 emissions has mostly been dependent on available amount of exhaust gas waste heat to produce electricity using waste heat recovery generator unit instead of medium-speed diesel generating set. Comparative analysis of amounts of exhaust gas waste heat in LNG and MGO modes under ISO ambient conditions has been carried out with particular emphasis on the impact of different variants of SCR and EGR systems. Formulae to estimate the amounts of exhaust gas waste heat have been determined using least squares method.
Evaluating Port Operation Managers’ Competencies Related to the Port Environmental Sustainability Performance
Authors: Tezcan Özgür , Kuleyin Barış
Published: July 2021

The competency characteristics of managers affect decisions that identifying the strategies in an organization. Similarly, the strategies for sustainability issues are also related to the managers’ competency on sustainability. Thus, for better sustainability performance, the managers are expected to possess competencies in this direction. In this context, this study is aimed to evaluate the operations managers’ competencies in terms of environmental sustainability in ports, which have huge effects on the physical and biological environment. For this purpose, one of the Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methods, Analytic Network Process (ANP) was used to evaluate the priority weights of 15 competencies. Within a framework of container ports/terminals, the findings of this study show that “management skill”, “emergency procedures”, and “safety management” are the most primary competencies of port operations manager (POM) in terms of port environmental sustainability performance (PESP). The model used in this study can contribute to human resourcing and personnel training processes of ports.
An approach to greener overseas transport chain planning in FVL
Authors: Beškovnik Bojan
Published: July 2021

The article deals with a very topical issue of environmental suitability of complex transport chains. Overseas transport chains in finished vehicle logistics (FVL) consist of a series of transport routes in which they successively combine rail, road and sea transport. It is necessary to know the input parameters and their impact on the operation of FVL, especially with the aim of evaluating the air pollutants produced and the energy efficiency (EE) achieved. The article gives a systematic approach in defining input parameters and their evaluation for efficient green transport chain planning. The applicability of the approach is demonstrated on an ongoing FVL of the export flow of luxury vehicles from Europe to Asian markets. Transport chains from four production sites in Central Europe to two loading ports in Koper and Bremerhaven, and in maritime RO-RO transport to four Asian unloading ports are analyzed. The results of the study show the need for more comprehensive planning of export FVL, including environmental assessment at the planning stage. Significant savings in energy consumption and reduction in GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions can be achieved by shifting cargo flows to the southern transportation route. The article enriches the current research on sustainable operation of FVL and provides applied results for infrastructural adaptation of the southern transport route.
Analysis of crisis situations in nautical tourism
Authors: Gračan Daniela , Agbaba Romina
Published: July 2021

With rapid industrialization, the current social system is facing a variety of crises that deplete resources, pollute the environment and generate large amounts of waste. Excessive destinations dependence on tourism, as a primary economic activity, make them more vulnerable to global crisis situations and their negative effects. The tourism industry is also sensitive to external disasters and the deterioration of the tourism product, and is becoming more exposed to the crisis, which leads to a growing interest in contingency planning. Economic crisis, the crisis in the world shipping economy and political instability represent some of the crisis situations that developed and developing countries are struggling with. The goal of the research is literature review to determine which crisis situations exist in nautical tourism, which ones occur most often and what is the cause of them. Also, by analyzing the content of selected articles, the aim is to present possible solutions to such situations, applying to a greater extent to the principles of sustainable development. This paper analyzes the scientific literature on the crisis situations and their negative effects on nautical tourism, as relatively new multidisciplinary tourism activity. Contrary to the long history of piracy, terrorist attacks, as a one type of crisis situations that occur in the maritime industry are rare. However, high-energy consumption, high water pollution and increased port production, consequently negatively affect the ecological environment. Pollution created by vessels, in addition to disrupting the natural ecological balance, also encourages climate change, therefore, ecological restoration measures can help improve the quality of the environment on land and in water.
Impact of COVID-19 on the freedom of the merchant ship’s access to foreign ports
Authors: Gutsuliak Vasiliy N.
Published: July 2021

Nowadays, merchant shipping is facing a new challenge in the context of COVID-19. The ships at sea may find themselves in need of immediate medical assistance relating to the crewmembers and/or passengers due to COVID-19. Besides, there is a problem with the change of ship crews in due time and their repatriation. Under international custom, coastal States keep their ports open for merchant shipping but may require the ship’s master to take appropriate action to prevent a threat of danger. In cases of failure or urgency, the coastal State can exercise its authority in taking responsive action appropriate to the threat. The article analyzes the main issue - how reasonable are the actions of states that close their ports to foreign vessels in the light of COVID-19. In this paper, the practice of foreign and Russian ports in the context of the COVID-19 is assessed.
Simulation based calculation of ship motions in extreme seas with a body-exact strip theory approach
Authors: Anil Kıvanç Ali , Danışman Devrim Bülent , Sarıöz Kadir
Published: July 2021

For all design phases of naval vessels, the fidelity of seakeeping calculations in extreme seas is open to discussion due to the inadequacy of the linear theory of ship motions. Currently the computer-generated time series of ship responses and wave height (the real time computer experiments) are utilized to calculate the distribution of the vertical distortion, shear force and bending moment by means of “ship hydroelasticity theory”. Inspired by these studies a simulation based calculation of symmetric ship motions is performed in long crested irregular head seas, in addition with a body-exact strip theory approach. The scope of this study is limited to the ship motions only. Verification is achieved utilizing the spectral analysis procedure which contains the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) and the smoothing algorithms. The results are compared with the experimental data, and the ANSYS AQWA software results. The simulation results provide adequate data for the extreme responses. This state-of-the-art method in addition with a “body-exact strip theory approach” ensures the consistent assessment of the seakeeping performance in extreme sea condition. As a result, it is evaluated that this calculation method can be used in the design stages of naval platforms.
Assessing societal attitudes’ and laws’ independent associations with sexual minority disclosure behaviors
Authors: Katz Benjamin A
Published: July 2021

Sexual minorities (i.e., lesbian women, gay men, and bi/pansexual people) are uniquely challenged with deciding when to disclose their socially stigmatized identity. The current investigation examines how a country’s structural support (i.e., laws and policies related to sexual minorities) and interpersonal tolerance (i.e., public opinion regarding sexual minorities) factor into sexual minorities’ decision to disclose. Study 1 examined a representative population sample (n = 114,098) and found that willingness to spontaneously disclose sexual minority status was predicted by interpersonal tolerance to a moderate degree and structural support to a small degree. Study 2 replicated these findings in a community sample of sexual minorities (n = 93,079), using a dimensional measure of disclosure across contexts. Furthermore, exploratory indirect effects analyses found that these contextual factors impacted disclosure via respondents’ perceptions of their environment. Taken together, the current investigation highlights how sexual minorities assess their environments and manage their public identities accordingly.
Fundamental constraints on distinguishing reality from imagination
Authors: Dijkstra Nadine , Fleming Stephen M
Published: July 2021

Humans are voracious imaginers, with internal simulations supporting memory, planning and decision-making. Because the neural mechanisms supporting imagination overlap with those supporting perception, a foundational question is how reality and imagination are kept apart. Traditional psychology experiments struggle to investigate this issue as subjects can rapidly learn that real stimuli are in play. Here we capitalised on the ability to conduct large-scale, one-trial-per-participant psychophysics via online platforms combined with computational modelling and neuroimaging to investigate perceptual reality monitoring failures in the general population. We find striking evidence for a subjective intermixing of imagination and reality – both behaviourally and neurally. Our data are best explained by a model that evaluates the total strength of intermixed imagined and perceived signals against a “reality threshold” to determine whether it reflects reality. These findings suggest that imagined and perceived signals are not kept separate, nor is the intention to imagine used to identity and discount self-generated signals. Instead, a judgment of reality is based on the intensity of the intermixture between imagination and reality. A striking consequence of this account is that it predicts when virtual or imagined signals are strong enough, they become indistinguishable from reality.
Validation and Generalizability of Machine Learning Prediction Models on Attrition in Longitudinal Studies
Authors: Jankowsky Kristin , Schroeders Ulrich
Published: July 2021

Attrition in longitudinal studies is a major threat to the representativeness of the data and the generalizability of the findings. Typical approaches to address systematic nonresponse are either expensive and unsatisfactory (e.g., oversampling) or rely on the unrealistic assumption of data missing at random (e.g., multiple imputation). Thus, models that effectively predict who most likely drops out in subsequent occasions might offer the opportunity to take countermeasures (e.g., incentives). With the current study, we introduce a longitudinal model validation approach and examine whether attrition in two nationally representative longitudinal panel studies can be predicted accurately. We compare the performance of a basic logistic regression model to a more flexible, data-driven machine learning algorithm––Gradient Boosting Machines. Our results show almost no difference in accuracies for both modeling approaches, which contradicts claims of similar studies on survey attrition. Prediction models could not be generalized across surveys and were less accurate when tested at a later survey wave. We discuss the implications of these findings for survey retention, the use of complex machine learning algorithms, and give some recommendations to deal with study attrition.
Studium als sozialer Raum. Ein Schreibgespräch zwischen Studierenden und Lehrenden.
Authors: Lohner David , Mozer Pia , Schmid-Walz Sabrina
Published: July 2021

Das Studium unter den Bedingungen der Corona-Pandemie ist durch zahlreiche, vorwiegend quanti- tative Studien untersucht worden. Der Beitrag wirft einen qualitativen Blick auf die Erfahrung der Stu- dierenden und Lehrenden der Studiengänge Pädagogik und Ingenieurpädagogik des Karlsruher Insti- tuts für Technologie (KIT). Aspekte eines (teil-)digitalisierten Studiums werden in einem Schreibge- spräch erörtert und durch Aussagen aus Interviews belegt. So zeigt sich, dass frontale Lehrangebote von digital-asynchronen Formaten wie Vorlesungsaufzeichnung oder Blended-Learning profitieren kön- nen, wohingegen diskursives Lernen im digitalen Raum nur teilweise abgebildet werden kann. Die so- zialen Aspekte des Studien-alltags und die zwischenmenschliche Kommunikation sind im Digitalen eingeschränkt. Die Auswirkungen des überwiegend virtuellen Studienbetriebs auf fachlich-inhaltliche und sozial-kommunikative Aspekte am Standort werden im Beitrag beleuchtet. Dabei wird der Frage nachgegangen, wie das Studium in der Zeit nach der Corona-Pandemie aufgestellt werden sollte, um sozialen Austausch zu ermöglichen und weiter der erhöhten Flexibilität und den durch die Digitalisie- rung vergrößerten didaktischen Möglichkeiten Rechnung zu tragen.
Patterns of crime during the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium
Authors: Hardyns Wim , Schokkenbroek Janneke , Schapansky Evelyn , Keygnaert Ines , Ponnet Koen , Vandeviver Christophe
Published: July 2021

This paper describes changes in police recorded crime rates and changes in patterns of self-reported domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020 - December 2020) in Belgium.
Baseline chest radiographic findings among HIV positive adults in a poor resource economy
Authors: Umar Faruk Kabir , Saidu Sule Ahmed , Ma'aji Sadisu , Danfulani Muhammad , Yunusa Garba Haruna , Gele Ibrahim Haruna , Hafsat Akininibosun Raji , Joshua Garba A , Amin Halimat Hassan , Mohammed Yahaya
Published: July 2021

Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection has been known to pose one of the most formidable challenges to progress and development. It is a public health burden associated with high morbidity. Chest radiograph is an important tool in manifesting some of the findings associated with HIV.
Aims and Objectives: To determine the baseline chest radiographic findings among HIV positive adults in a poor resource economy.
Materials and Methods: 140 Newly diagnosed adult HIV positive, HAART naïve, participants were recruited in the Radiology Department of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) Sokoto and had their chest radiograph done using Silhoutte VR System GE diagnostic x-ray equipment. The processed radiographs were viewed using an illuminated viewing box and then reported by the investigator and cross-checked by another consultant Radiologist. Data collated was analysed using SPSS version 23.
Results: The study showed female to male ratio of 2.2: 1. Normal chest radiographic finding was found in 67(47.9%) participants. Pulmonary consolidation 32 (22.9%) constituted the highest abnormal chest finding. The least of the abnormal radiographic findings were emphysematous bullae 1(0.7%) and plate atelectasis 1(0.7%). Majority of the lesions were in the upper zone, 43(30.7%) and on the right side.
Conclusion: The study provides baseline data on the chest radiographic patterns among the HAART naïve HIV positive adult patients in a poor resource economy.
What is the effect of advanced diagnostic methods on sensitivity and survival in the multiple breast cancers? A systematic analysis and comparison
Authors: Acar Hasan Zafer , Ozer Nazmi -
Published: July 2021

The sensitivities of the advanced diagnostic methods appear to be higher than the conventional methods and do have the potential to prolong survival, in multiple (multifocal and multicenter) breast cancers. Thus, the aim of this study is to compare the sensitivities of advanced and conventional diagnostic methods and to reveal their effects on survival. The studies published about diagnosis and treatment methods in multiple breast cancer in literature were searched, analyzed, and the sensitivities obtained with advanced and conventional diagnostic methods were compared, and the results were evaluated statistically. The sensitivity obtained with the advanced diagnostic methods in multiple breast cancers was found to be significantly higher than the conventional methods (p <0.05). The high sensitivities obtained with advanced diagnostic methods were found to have a high potential for survivial prolongation in multiple breast cancers. The use of advanced diagnostic methods in breast cancer screening programs, the investigation of tumor foci with molecular methods, increases the rate of diagnosis in multiple breast cancers. In the treatment of multiple breast cancers, a personalized treatment plan is made with the diagnosis of the molecular structure of the tumor foci. Thus, the recurrence rates are reduced, the survival is prolonged.
Involvement of Mobile phones as a source for Nosocomial infections
Authors: Shukla Priyanka , Khalid Bushra , Yaqoob Shadma , Ahmad Sharique
Published: July 2021

Background: Mobile phones are communication devices for communication nowadays and have emerged as a need of our life. Mobile phones also act as a reservoir for microorganisms. Human skin, wallets, bags, environment and food items are major sources of contamination for mobile phones. Medical students, healthcare workers and other non-teaching staff nowadays use mobile phones for communication in the workplace. Mobile phone contamination spreads from surfaces to hands.
Aims and Objective: Our study was aimed to investigate the contamination of mobile phones by pathogens among health care workers. The objective of this study was to document for the role of mobile phones as sources in nosocomial infections.
Materials and Methods: The study was done in Department of Microbiology and Pathology, Era’s Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, including teaching staffs from hospital and college, health care workers in all laboratories and wards. A total of 200 swab samples from various mobile phones of medical and technical staff of various wards, Outpatient Department Treatment, laboratories was collected after taking informed written consent from them. Culture was done on Blood Agar, MacConkey Agar, and Sabouraud’s dextrose agar. After overnight incubation, colonies were identified by Gram’s stain and Biochemical tests.
Results: Highest mobile phone users are medical students, residents followed by teaching faculty. Smart phones or touch screen mobiles were used by maximum ie.90.5%. Among the isolated bacteria, Bacillus (39.5%), CONS (19%), E.coli (15.5%), Klebsiella (10.5%), Pseudomonas (5.5%), Staphylococcus aureus (4%), Enterococcus (2.5%). No growth was seen in 3.5%mobile phone sample cultures. Not a single fungal pathogen was isolated.
Conclusion: The findings is the present study suggests that the mobile phones used by medical staff and health care workers act as source of transmission vehicles for pathogenic microorganisms.
Prevalence of β-lactamase production and multi-drug resistance among uropathogenic Escherichia coli isolates at a tertiary care hospital of North-western India
Authors: Jain Ruchi , Pal Nita , Hooja Saroj
Published: July 2021

Background: E.coli is the most common organism causing UTI. Inappropriate and widespread use of broad-spectrum antibiotics has resulted in development of multi-drug resistance and β-lactamases producing strains.
Aims and Objective: To assess β-lactamase production and multi-drug resistance among uropathogenic E.coli isolates.
Materials and Methods: A total of 145 E.coli urinary isolates were included in this study. The isolated organisms were identified by conventional microbiological procedures. Antimicrobial susceptibility was performed by Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method. Isolates were screened for extended spectrum β-lactamaseproduction and confirmed by phenotypic confirmatory double disc synergy test. Isolates resistant to cefoxitin were considered potential AmpC producers confirmed by AmpC disc test and modified three dimensionsl test. Isolates resistant to imipenem and meropenem were considered potential carbapenemase producers and confirmed by mCIM test.
Results: Out of 145 isolates 91 (62.76%) were isolated from males and 54 (37.24%) from females. Majority of the isolates were obtained from the age group of 21-30 years (48.96%) followed by 31-40 years (14.48%). Highest susceptibility was seen towards fosfomycin (94.48%), tigecycline (87.59%), nitrofurantoin (77.24%). Highest resistance of 81.38% was observed against ampicillin while more than 70.0% resistance observed with cefazolin, cefotaxime, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and amoxiclav. Multi-drug resistance was observed in 85.51% isolates and 4.14% were found to be possible XDR. Among these isolates frequency of β-lactamase production was ESBL (45.51%), AmpC (28.96%) and caebapenemase (28.96%).
Conclusion: Drug resistance due to β-lactamases production is emerging as a serious threat in UTI; routine screening of these β-lactamases will prevent treatment failures.
Prevalence of helicobacter pylori infection in children with Vitamin B12 Deficiency - A cross-sectional observational study
Authors: Dhayal Rajendra Kumar , Vishnoi Shree Krishan , Jora Rakesh , Choudhary Sandeep
Published: July 2021

Background: Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in children but under diagnosed disorder. Helicobacter pylori infection plays an important role in the development of atrophic gastritis and related malabsorption. There may be a relationship between H.Pylori infection and vitamin B12 deficiency.
Aims and Objective: To find out prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection by endoscopic and histopathological findings, in children aged 2-18 years, with vitamin B12 deficiency.
Materials and Methods: Seventy-eight patients with deficient serum vitamin B12 levels were evaluated. Upper GI Endoscopy was performed in all cases and gastric biopsies were obtained for histopathological examination and evidence of H. pylori infection.
Results: Tissue biopsy revealed chronic atrophic gastritis in 09 patients and chronic antral gastritis in 52 patients. H. pylori infection by histology was positive in 45(57.70%) patients. We found significant correlation between atrophic gastritis and H. pylori infection, as well as between H. pylori infection and B12 deficiency.
Conclusion: H.pylori has an effect on gastric mucosa, which affects the absorption of vitamin B12. Thus individuals with B12 deficiency should be subjected for diagnostic evaluation of H.pylori infection so that appropriate therapy can be initiated.
Comparison between esmolol and verapamil in attenuation of cardiovascular stress response to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation in elective surgery
Authors: Chakraborty Nitisha , Roy Sankar , Sur Debajyoti , Biswas Arunava , Bhattacharya Dipasri , Adhikari Anjan
Published: July 2021

Background: Cardiovascular stress due to reflex sympathetic over activity is a great concern during laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation.
Aims and Objectives: To compare the efficacy and safety of esmolol and verapamil for attenuation of hemodynamic effects (heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure) due to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation in elective surgical cases.
Materials and Methods: A prospective, randomized, double blinded, controlled study was conducted on 60 patients divided equally into 30 each receiving esmolol (2 mg/kg body weight) and verapamil (0.1 mg/kg body weight) respectively. Heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure were recordedat pre-operative stage, after administration of the study drugs, immediately after intubation and at 1 ,3 ,5 minutes after intubation. Data collected were statistically analyzed.
Results: The mean systolic blood pressure was lower in the esmolol group at all times of estimation compared with the verapamil group and the difference was at the time of intubation (p value <0.001).The mean diastolic blood pressure was lower in the esmolol group at all times of estimation compared to the verapamil group which was not statistically significant at any time of estimation. The mean arterial pressure was significantly lower at the time of immediately after intubation (p<0.001) in esmolol as compared to verapamil group. Adverse effects in both the study groups were insignificant.
Conclusion: Esmololand Verapamil can effectively attenuate the cardiovascular stress to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation with the former appears to be a better alternative from efficacy and safety perspectives.
Comparative analysis of combined spinal epidural and spinal plus single shot femoral nerve block as post-operative analgesia in total knee replacement surgery
Authors: Mahure Shirish Mohan , Chavan Ramprasad Pralhad , Dedhiya Kalyanji , Amle Dnyanesh Balkrishna
Published: July 2021

Background: Effective anaesthesia is required to overcome complications of epidural anaesthesia and relieve the patients undergoing lower limb surgeries such as total knee replacement from severe pain.
Aims and Objective: The current study was aimed to study combined spinal- epidural anaesthesia (CSEA) and spinal plus single shot femoral nerve block (SSFNB) for post-operative analgesia in total knee replacement surgeries.
Materials and Methods: This prospective observational and randomized study included 60 subjects undergoing Total knee replacement which were randomized into two groups and administered combined spinal epidural block and single shot femoral nerve block as per standardised protocol for post-operative pain management. Pain as per visual analogue scale and need of rescue analgesia and other haemodynamic parameters were compared between two groups and at different time interval.
Result: Two study groups were found to be matched for age, gender, weigh, height and ASA grading. SSFNB group showed significantly high VAS score at 6 Hr, need for rescue analgesia, compared to CSEA group. CSEA group had significantly high number of patients with motor block. significant difference in the variation of pulse rate was observed within both the groups. Significantly higher systolic blood pressure at 6h, 12h, 24h and 36h., diastolic blood pressure at 6h, 24h and 48h and in mean arterial pressure at 6h, 24h and 36 h was observed in SSFNB group compared to CSEA group.
Conclusion: We concluded that, patients undergoing total knee replacement show better analgesia and hemodynamic stability with CSEA in comparison to SSFNB, but at the cost of more motor blockade on non-operative limb and delayed recovery.
Adult type CML in paediatric age group – a case series from tertiary care hospital
Authors: Tiwari Kshama , Irfan Sumaiya , Ahmad Sharique , Zaidi Noorin , Farheen Zarina
Published: July 2021

Chronic myeloid leukaemia is a clonal disorder arising from hematopoietic stem cell, affecting all the lineage of haematopoietic stem cells. The average age of affection in chronic myeloid leukaemia is 60 to 65 years and is extremely rare in childhood comprising 3% of paediatric leukaemia. An institution-based study to reveal the statistics of paediatric chronic myeloid leukaemia patients in a tertiary health care centre of North India serving mainly an economically under privileged population belonging to minority groups.
Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor and its complicated role in hemodialysis (HD) patients with Covid-19 infection
Authors: Griveas Ioannis , Schoinas Antonios , Balitsari Anthi , Asimakopoulos Gerasimos , Pratilas Evaggelos
Published: July 2021

Background: Soluble urokinase plasminogen receptor (suPAR) is a protein in the blood that has been described to reflect the severity status of systemic inflammation.
Aims and Objective: We investigated the association between admission suPAR levels and severity and outcome of HD patients with Covid-19 infection.
Materials and Methods: In an observational study of adult HD patients hospitalized for Covid-19, we measured suPAR levels in plasma samples. The time table for those measurements were as follows: at the beginning of admission, after hemoperfusion (HP) session for those patients that received them, and just before discharge.
Results: Of the 17 patients (7 were male), 13 patients received HP (mean age: 74 years old). The median suPAR level was 12.94 ng/ml. For those who undertook HP in HD unit median suPAR level was before session 12.95 ng/mil and 6.2 ng/ml at the end of each session (p<0.05). 3 patients had suPAR level below 7 ng/ml. 2 of them survived without developing pleural effusions. 7 patients discharged from the hospital with median suPAR level 12.08 ng/ml which did not differ significantly from the median suPAR level of the diceased ones (13.68 ng/ml).
Conclusion: Admission of suPAR levels in HD patients hospitalized for Covid-19 do not seem to be predictive for their clinical course in general. Chronic Kidney Disease and its relation to suPAR independently of patients’ inflammation status may be the key component for our notice. Despite that, in patients where low levels of suPAR combined with absence of pleural effusions the prognosis was excellent.
The study of clinical profile and vitamin B 12 in dengue fever patients
Authors: Ramalingaiah Mamatha Tittamegalapalya , Jogihalli Mood Jeetendra Kumar , Narayanashetty Satyanarayana , Bhuvaneshappa Rashmi Madappa
Published: July 2021

Background: Dengue is an acute infectious febrile illness characterised by thrombocytopenia and platelet dysfunction leading to bleeding manifestations. Vitamin B12 is required for platelet production in the bone marrow. So, deficiency of vitamin B12 in dengue patients can have severe thrombocytopenia.
Aims and Objective: Study was aimed to know the clinical profile of dengue fever patients and to correlate serum vitamin B12 level with severity of thrombocytopenia, platelet transfusion and duration of hospital stay.
Materials and Methods: This observational study was done on dengue patients for period of 3 months January 2020 to March 2020. Confirmed cases of dengue fever with NS 1 Ag positive & Ig M antibody positive were included in the study. Patient with sepsis, underlying malignancy, autoimmune disorder, hematological disorder, drugs causing thrombocytopenia were excluded from the study. Appropriate statistical methods were applied.
Results: Total 50 subjects were included. Majority of subjects were in the age group 31 to 40 years. 50% were males and females respectively. Most common clinical feature was fever and bleeding manifestations. Mean Vitamin B12 was significantly lower among those with severe thrombocytopenia and highest among those with no thrombocytopenia., there was significant difference in mean Platelet transfusion and duration of hospital stay with respect to severity of Platelet count.
Conclusion: Dengue fever patients with vitamin B 12 deficiency had moderate to severe thrombocytopenia and more bleeding manifestations. Those patients required more platelet transfusion and increased duration of hospital stay.
Assessment of Labial Alveolar Bone Thickness in Maxillary Central Incisor using Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Pradhan Shaili , Shrestha Rejina , Gorkhali Ranjita Shrestha , Koirala Pramod Kumar
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The maxillary anterior region is becoming a major concern due to its aesthetic relevance. The buccal bone thickness is important for implant placement, orthodontic treatment and restorative treatment.

Objective: To assess the thickness of alveolar bone in the maxillary central incisor using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Department of Dental Surgery, Bir Hospital where CBCT of 53 samples from July 2019 till December 2019, the archived CBCT images was assessed retrospectively. The thickness of the labial bone in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the tooth root was measured at a distance of 2 mm from the cementoenamel junction (CEJ). The measurement was taken thrice and the mean measurement was considered.

Results: The labial alveolar bone thickness in maxillary central incisor was found to be 0.55±0.27 mm at a distance of 2 mm from the CEJ. Only 2 (3.8%) of the samples had an alveolar thickness of >1 mm. No statistically significant difference was found with respect to gender and age.

Conclusion: The average thickness of the labial alveolar bone in maxillary central incisor using cone beam computed tomography was found to be thin.
The Impact of Dental Neglect on Oral Health Among 16-30-Year-Olds in Dhulikhel, Kavrepalanchok, Nepal
Authors: Mahanta Swagat Kumar , Humagain Manoj , Upadhyaya Chandan , Prajapati Dilip , Srii Ritesh
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Oral health status is linked to oral health behaviour and dental neglect can be an important parameter for assessment of oral health status. Such evaluation will help in providing and planning appropriate health promotion activities to target population.

Objective: To assess socio-demographic variations in Dental Neglect (DN) and to determine the association between DN and oral health.

Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study done at dental hospital in Dhulikhel from September-November 2020. A sample of 327 aged 16-30 years were selected by convenience sampling technique. Demographic details along with DN were collected through the DN questionnaire. Both self-reported oral health and oral health status were assessed. Oral health status was determined by using the Oral Hygiene Index-simplified (OHI-S) and the Decayed Missing Filled index (DMFT).

Results: Majority 170 (52%) of the sample were from high DN group. A total of 187 (57.2%) of the participants rated their oral health status as all right. Higher number of participants were seen in the fair group of oral hygiene status. Significant correlations were found between education and OHI-S scores. Mean DMFT score was 3.6±1.6 which had higher mean Decayed (D) component as compared to the Missing (M) and Filled (F) components in the index.

Conclusion: Dental neglect is present among the study population and is associated with self-reported oral health status. Disparities were observed between the socio-demographic variables and DN. The DN Scale can be used in dental health promotion and also in evaluation of health promotion interventions.
Examining the effects of psychiatric symptoms, brain injury symptoms, and low self-control on the placement of inmates in administrative segregation and their risk for suicidal ideation
Authors: Chintakrindi Sriram , Capellan Joel , Porter Jeremy R. , Wilson M. Blake , Gupta Suditi
Published: July 2021

Objective: In this study, we are interested in understanding the predictive effects of psychiatric symptoms, brain injury symptoms, and criminological factors on inmate (N=270) risk for placement in administrative segregation and their expression of suicidal ideation. Methods: Using a case-control design, this study seeks to understand the psychological and behavioral risk-profiles of inmates being placed in administrative segregation and those with suicidal ideation. More specifically, we are trying to understand the magnitude of the effect that psychiatric symptoms, brain injury symptoms, and low self-control characteristics has on the risk of inmates being placed in administrative segregation and their risk for suicidal ideation. Results: We found that factor scores for psychiatric symptoms and low self-control levels significantly increase the risk of inmates expressing suicidal ideation when compared to alternative predictive factors.
Implementacija pristupa temeljenog na dokazima učinkovitosti u prevencijskoj znanosti
Authors: Belošević Matea , Ferić Martina
Published: July 2021

Svrha rada je dati kritički osvrt na pristup temeljen na dokazima učinkovitosti, od definiranja ključnih pojmova do analize prednosti i prepreka za njegovu implementaciju u praksu. U radu se raspravlja o pristupu utemeljenosti na dokazima učinkovitosti, odnosno definiraju se pojmovi „praksa temeljena na dokazima učinkovitosti“ i „programi/intervencije temeljene na dokazima učinkovitosti“. Kritički se osvrće na ključne kriterije programa/intervencija temeljenih na dokazima učinkovitosti. Opisane su najznačajnije online baze učinkovitih programa i kategorije koje se koriste pri određivanju razine učinkovitosti programa/intervencija. Nadalje, raspravlja se i kritički osvrće na prednosti, ali i izazove korištenja pristupa temeljenog na dokazima učinkovitosti i kao i pri njegovoj implementaciji. Zaključno su predložene smjernice za buduća istraživanja te djelotvoran i učinkovit odabir i primjenu pristupa temeljenog na dokazima učinkovitosti u prevencijsku praksu.