bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural Radiation Exposure and Carotid Intima-media Thickness Among Women in Karunagappally, Kerala, India.
Authors: Nandakumar Athira , Sreeku Ananthakrishnakurup , Nair Abhilash N , Amma Jayalekshmi Padmavathy , Ahammed Riyaz , Nair Rekha A , Nair Raghu Ram K , Koriyama Chihaya , Sasaki Michiya , Akiba Suminori , Nakamura Seiichi , Konishi Junji , Endo Keigo
Published: May 2021

Background: A cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the relationship between natural radiation exposure and intima-media thickness (IMT), an atherosclerosis indicator, among female residents in Karunagappally, Kerala, South India, which is known to have areas with high natural background radiation (HNBR) derived mainly from thorium.Methods: Cumulative radiation doses received during childhood, adulthood, and entire life were estimated on the basis of annual indoor and outdoor radiation doses and hours spent indoors and outdoors. In 2013-2014, IMT of the carotid artery was measured with ultrasonography among 400 women aged 29-60 years in Karunagappally. Since there were three subjects with outlying maximum IMT values, corrected IMT values excluding those outliers were calculated. For statistical analysis, raw and corrected IMT values were used. Results: The regression analysis adjusting for age and religion showed a statistically significant association of mean and maximum IMT with radiation. The most strongly related radiation dose was with the adult dose. Its association with IMT became stronger when paediatric dose was also taken into account. When adjusted for fasting blood sugar and HbA1c, adult dose was statistically significantly related to raw mean IMT (P=0.008) and corrected mean IMT (P=0.018). Maximum IMT values were also related to adult doses but the association was not statistically significant (raw maximum IMT, P=0.061 and corrected maximum IMT, P=0.138). Conclusions: Among female residents in the HNBR areas in south India, mean IMT statistically significantly increased in relation to the adult dose. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the causal association of the observation.
Are Employees in Oil and Gas Companies More Vulnerable to Hypertension Than the General Population of Working Age? Evidence From Men and Women in Northwest of China
Authors: Liang Ying , Che Tianle , Kyriacou Kyriacos , Liu Siming , Zhang Haiyue , Li Ling , Mi Hai , Shang Lei , Tan Zhijun
Published: May 2021

Objective To examine whether the employees of an oil and gas company in Shaanxi Province are more vulnerable to hypertension than the general residents, aged 18-60, living in the same geographical region. Design Cross-sectional analysis of the hypertension prevalence of two different population by using propensity score matching (PSM). Participants Employees of Changqing Oil Field Filiale took part in Health Risk Factors Survey (2013) and residents took part in the National Health Service Survey (2013) in Shaanxi Province, China. Main outcome measures The primary outcome was hypertention which was defined as systolic blood pressure of at least 140 mm Hg, or diastolic blood pressure of at least 90 mm Hg, or self-reported antihypertensive medication use in the previous 2 weeks, or self-reported history of hypertention. Results Changqing employees were much younger, with a higher proportion of men, and their lifestyle was less healthy, with higher BMI, more drinkers and smokers. Before PSM, hypertension prevalence of Changqing employees was slightly lower than Shaanxi residents (5.8% vs 7.6%). After PSM, the results of the adjusted logistic model showed that Changqing employees were more likely to be hypertensive (OR =1.10, 95% CI =1.02-1.19, P =0.01). Among the male samples, Changqing employees were more likely to be hypertensive (OR =1.43, 95% CI =1.31-1.58, P <0.01), while the opposite was true for the female samples (OR=0.64, 95%CI=0.56-0.73, P<0.01). Conclusion Changqing’s employees, as a whole, and male employees in particular, were more vulnerable to hypertension than the general residents of the region. However, the reverse was found for female employees.
Differential Phenotype of Primary Bilateral Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia and Other Bilateral Adrenal Lesions With Associated Subclinical Hypercortisolism. Study of 98 Patients.
Authors: Rojano Nuria Bengoa , Fernández-Argüeso María , Botella-Carretero Jose Ignacio , Pascual-Corrales Eider , Araujo-Castro Marta
Published: May 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the prevalence of primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) in patients with adrenal incidentalomas (AIs) with subclinical hypercortisolism. Also to analyse the differential phenotype of patients with PBMAH compared to other bilateral adrenal lesions which do not meet PBMAH definition.Methods: Retrospective study of patients with AIs diagnosed in our centre between 2013 and 2019 (n=730). Patients with bilateral disease and associated subclinical hypercortisolism (possible ACS or ACS) were included (n=98). Possible ACS and ACS were defined as a cortisol post-1mg-dexamethasone suppression test (DST)>1.8µg/dl but ≤5.0µg/dl and >5.0µg/dl. without specific clinical signs of Cushing´s syndrome, respectively. PBMAH diagnosis was established in patients with subclinical hypercortisolism, hyperplasia and bilateral adrenal nodules >1cm.Results: PBMAH was confirmed in 31.6% of bilateral AIs with subclinical hypercortisolism. Patients with PBMAH presented a higher prevalence of ACS than non-PBMHA (OR 4.1, 95%CI 1.38-12.09, P=0.010), but differences disappeared after adjusting by tumour size and total adenomatous mass (adjusted OR 2.3, 95%CI=0.65-8.27 and 2.3, 95%CI 0.47-11.21, respectively). However, no significant differences in the cardiometabolic profile of both groups were observed. Tumour size and total adenomatous mass were significantly higher in PBMAH (30.2±12.16 vs 24.3±8.47, P=0.010 and 53.9±20.8 vs 43.3±14.62, P=0.023).Conclusion: PBMAH is common in patients with incidentally detected bilateral adrenals lesions with associated subclinical hypercortisolism. The higher prevalence of ACS in PBMAH compared to non-PBMAH is associated with a higher tumour size and total adenomatous mass in PBMHA, but no differences in the cardiometabolic profile were observed between both groups.
Trichoderma Koningiopsis (Hypocreaceae) has the Smallest Mitogenome of the Genus Trichoderma
Authors: Castrillo María Lorena , Bich Gustavo Angel , Zapata Pedro Dario , Saparrat Mario Carlos Nazareno , Villalba Laura Lidia
Published: May 2021

The complete mitochondrial genome sequence of the mycoparasitic fungus Trichoderma koningiopsis was determined using the Illumina next-generation sequencing technology. We used data from our recent Illumina NGS-based project of T. koningiopsis genome sequencing to study its mitochondrial genome. The mitogenome was assembled, annotated, and compared with other mitogenomes. Trichoderma koningiopsis strain POS7 mitogenome is a circular molecule of 27,560 bp long with a GC content of 27.70%. It harbours the whole complement of the 14 conserved mitochondrial protein-coding genes (PCG) such as atp6, atp8, atp9, cox1, cox2, cox3, cob, nad1, nad2, nad3, nad4, nad4L, nad5, and nad6, also found in other Hypocreales. The mitogenome also contains two ribosomal RNA genes and 26 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), 5 of them with more than one copy. Other genes also present in the assembled mitochondrial genome are a small rRNA subunit and a large rRNA subunit containing ribosomal protein S3 gene. A phylogenetic analysis was done using the 14 PCGs genes of T. koningiopsis strain POS7 mitogenome to compare them with those from other fungi of the Subphyla Pezizomycotina and Saccharomycotina. T. koningiopsis strain POS7 was clustered together with other representatives of Trichoderma lineage, within the Hypocreales group, which is also supported by previous phylogenetic studies based on nuclear markers. The characterization of mitochondrial genome of T. koningiopsis contributes to the understanding of phylogeny and evolution of Hypocreales.
Medical Costs of Children Admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: the Role and Possible Economic Impact of WES in Early Diagnosis
Authors: Keizer R.A.C.M. Olde , Marouane A. , Deden A.C. , Zelst-Stams W.A.G. van , de Boode W.P. , Keusters W.R. , Henneman L. , Amstel J.K. Ploos van , Frederix Gerardus , Vissers L.E.L.M.
Published: May 2021

Objective: The objective of this study is to provide an overview of average healthcare costs for patients admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and to assess possible impact of implementing Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) on these total healthcare costs.Methods: We retrospectively collected postnatal healthcare data of all patients admitted to the level IV NICU at the Radboudumc (October 2013-October 2015) and linked unit costs to these healthcare consumptions. Average healthcare costs were calculated and a distinction between patients was made based on performance of genetic tests and the presence of congenital anomalies (CAs).Results: Overall, €26,627 was spend per patient. Genetic costs accounted for 2.3% of all costs. Healthcare costs were higher for patients with CAs compared to patients without CAs. Patients with genetic diagnostics were also more expensive then patients without genetic diagnostics. When performing trio-WES for all patients instead of current diagnostics, overall healthcare costs will increase with 22.2%. In case only patients with CAs receive trio-WES, average per patient healthcare costs will increase with 5.3%. Performing trio-WES only for patients with multiple CAs did not result in any cost changes.Conclusions: Genetic diagnostic testing accounted for a small fraction of total costs. By implementing trio-WES as genetic diagnostic test for all patients with CAs there is a limited increase in overall healthcare budget. Not only the diagnostic yield of this cohort will increase, but implementing trio-WES for all patients with CAs may also allow for improved personalized treatments options guided by the diagnoses made.
Involvement of subventricular zone shortened the survival of pediatric glioblastoma
Authors: Jiao Yang , Wang Meng , Liu Xueyou , Wang Juankuan , Wang Zeming , Luo Wenzheng , Yu Yang , Sun Hongwei
Published: May 2021

PURPOSE

Glioblastoma involved with subventricular zone (SVZ) predicted a worse outcome in adult, but we know less about it based on children population due to the rarity of pediatric glioblastoma (pGBM). We performed this study to probe into the clinical and prognostic features of glioblastoma involved with SVZ in children.
METHODS

We selected thirty-one patients diagnosed with pediatric supratentorial glioblastoma at our department between January 2015 and January 2020. Clinical data and prognostic results were reviewed retrospectively.
RESULTS

Involvement of SVZ was associated with larger tumor volume (p = 0.007), lower edema index (EI) (p = 0.010), passive adjuvant therapy (p = 0.029), worse progression-free survival (PFS) (p = 0.001) and overall survival (OS) (p < 0.001), it didn’t correlate to age, sex, preoperative KPS, extent of resection (EOR), tumor side, Ki-67, expression of P53 and ATRX and mutation of IDH1 and IDH2 genes. Independent of EOR and adjuvant therapies, involvement of SVZ was a prognostic factor of PFS and OS in pGBM.
CONCLUSION

Involvement of SVZ was an independent prognostic factor of PFS and OS in pGBM, and it associated with large volume, mild edema and passive adjuvant therapy. More research should be developed to optimize the treatment strategy of pGBM involved with SVZ.
Trunk Fat Estimation According To Gender In Childhood Through Basic Somatic Readings. An Opportunity for Improving Girl’S Evaluation
Authors: Moya Manuel , Pérez-Fernández Virginia
Published: May 2021

Background: Easy appraisal of trunk fat and the eventual cardiometabolic risk of pediatric obesity is a present requirement. Its estimators Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR) and Relative Fat Mass pediatric (RFMp, expressed as % of total fat content), can be a complement of widely accepted BMI.Methods: 472 children (39% boys), classified as underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese (Nutritional groups, NG) according to BMI Z-score after their strictly obtained anthropometric initial data, with ad hoc exclusion criteria. Calculation of WHtR and RFMp was done for each nutritional group and sex, as associations through multiple linear regression (MLR) and differences among sexes (medians, IQR).Results: Age (mean (95% CI)), 10.8 y (10.1- 11.1). Estimators values in: All group WHtR 0.5 (0.49 – 0.51), RFMp% 32.3 (31.7 – 33.0); Underweight, WHtR 0.41 (0.40 – 0.41), RFMp (%) 22.8 (21.2 – 24.4); Normal weight, WHtR 0.46 (0.45 – 0.47), RFMp(%) 28.9 (28.1 – 29.7); Overweight, WHtR 0.51 (0.50 – 0.52), RFMp(%) 34.2 (33.3 – 35.1) and Obese WHtR 0.56 (0.55 – 0.57), RFMp(%) 37.8 (36.9 – 38.6). Associations (NG; independent variables): In NG adjusted R² values were between 0.74-0.78. In All group Beta coefficients were for RFMp 3.36 (P< 0.001) for girls; for waist circumference (WC 2.97 (P< 0.001) and for WHtR were respectively -0.01 (p< 0.001) and 0.03 (p< 0.001) Sex differences: BMI were in NG without gender differences (Mann-W’s U). Whereas WHtR (median IQR) differ (M vs F) respectively in: All group 0.49 (0.45 - 0.54) vs 0.52 (0.45 - 0.56), p<0.004; in Overweight 0.51 (0.48 – 0.53) vs 0.54 (0.51 – 0.55), p< 0.001; in Obese 0.55 (0.52 – 0.57) vs 0.57 (0.54 – 0.60), p< 0.004. RFMp (%): in All 29.21 (24.27 – 32.92) vs 36.63 (30.2 – 39.51), p< 0.001; in Overweight 31.24 (28.35 – 32.35) vs 37.95 (35.75 – 38.82), p<0.001 and in Obese 35.89 (32.05 – 36.15) vs 40.63 (38.27 – 42.42), p<0.001.Conclusions: WHtR and RFMp are simple and reliable indexes not requiring centile charts. Their values, including waist circumference, can estimate the different trunk fat component in boys and girls better than BMI, especially if overweight and obese. RFMp proved to be more reliable as it considers gender. Reasonably, both should be included in routine anthropometric readings.
Synthesis and Characterization of CSH/CS/n-HA Composite Scaffold for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Gong Chunhua , Tang Haixia , Wu Yanbo , Guo Juan , Guo Ruixue , bi yongguang
Published: May 2021

In this paper, chitosan/hydroxyapatite (CS/n-HA) were synthesized by ultrasound-assisted precipitation combined with inverse crosslinking-emulsion method. In order to obtain a scaffold material with excellent properties, Calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CSH) were combined with CS-HA obtained CSH/CS/n-HA composite scaffold via setting citric acid as solidifying liquid, which possessed better biodegradability, bioactivity, mechanical properties. The physicochemical, morphological properties of scaffolds were characterized by FTIR, XRD and TFSEM. In addition, explored were the mechanical, degradable, biocompatibility and iron release properties. The mechanical strength study indicated that the compressive strength of the porous composite scaffold was influenced by adding an appropriate amount of CS/n-HA composite microspheres. It was proved that the composite scaffold with 6% CS/n-HA content obtained the highest mechanical strength (17.46±1.29 MPa). The results illustrated that the composite scaffold possessed biodegradability and can form hydroxyapatite by dynamic balance of Ca and P elements. The hemolysis tests demonstrate that materials are non-hemolytic and have good blood compatibility. Therefore, the developed composite scaffolds are safe medical inorganic materials, which can potentially be applied in bone tissue engineering.
“Vaccine-Induced Covid-19 Mimicry” Syndrome:Splice reactions within the SARS-CoV-2 Spike open reading frame result in Spike protein variants that may cause thromboembolic events in patients immunized with vector-based vaccines
Authors: Kowarz Eric , Krutzke Lea , Reis Jenny , Bracharz Silvia , Kochanek Stefan , Marschalek Rolf
Published: May 2021

During the last months many countries have started the immunization of millions of people by using vector-based vaccines. Unfortunately, severe side effects became overt during these vaccination campaigns: cerebral venous sinus thromboses (CVST), absolutely rare under normal life conditions, were found as a severe side effect that occured 4-14 days after first vaccinations. Besides CVST, Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis (SVT) was also observed. This type of adverse event has not been observed in the clinical studies of AstraZeneca, and therefore led immediately to a halt in vaccinations in several european countries. These events were mostly associated with thrombocytopenia, and thus, similar to the well-known Heparin-induced thrombo­cytopenia (HIT). Meanwhile, scientists have proposed a mechanism to explain this vaccine-induced thrombocytopenia. However, they do not provide a satisfactory explanation for the late thromboembolic events. Here, we present data that may explain these severe side effects which have been attributed to adenoviral vaccines. According to our results, transcription of wildtype and codon-optimized Spike open reading frames enables alternative splice events that lead to C-terminal truncated, soluble Spike protein variants. These soluble Spike variants may initiate severe side effects when binding to ACE2-expressing endothelial cells in blood vessels. In analogy to the thromboembolic events caused by Spike protein encoded by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, we termed the underlying disease mechanism the “Vaccine-Induced Covid-19 Mimicry” syndrome (VIC19M syndrome).
Synergistic effects of multiwalled carbon nanotubes and core-shell particles on the toughness and physico-mechanical properties of epoxy resin: a systematic study
Authors: Gharieh Ali , Dorraji Mir Saeed Seyed
Published: May 2021

Here, core-shell impact modifier particles (CSIMPs) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNs) were used as reinforcing agents for improving toughness and tensile properties of epoxy resin. For this purpose, emulsion polymerization technique was exploited to fabricate poly(butyl acrylate-allyl methacrylate) core- poly(methyl methacrylate-glycidyl methacrylate) shell impact modifier particles with average particle size of 407 nm. It was revealed that using a combination of the prepared CSIMPs and MWCNTs could significantly enhance toughness and tensile properties of epoxy resin. Also, it was observed that the dominant factors in enhancing the fracture toughness of the ternary composites are crack deflection/arresting as well as enlarged plastic deformation around the growing crack tip induced by the combination of rigid and soft particles. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with central composite design (CCD) was utilized to study the effects of the amounts of core-shell particles and multiwalled carbon nanotubes on the toughness and tensile properties of epoxy resin. The proposed quadratic models were in accordance with the experimental results with correlation coefficient more than 98%. The optimum condition for maximum toughness, elastic modulus, and tensile strength were 3 % wt. MWCNT and 1.03 % wt. CSIMPs. The sample fabricated in optimal condition indicated toughness, elastic modulus, and tensile strength equal to 2.2 MPa. m1/2, 3014.5 MPa and 40.6 MPa, respectively.
A new regionalization of rainfall patterns based on wavelet transform information and hierarchical cluster analysis in northeastern Algeria
Authors: Zerouali Bilel , Chettih Mohamed , Abda Zaki , Mesbah Mohamed , santos Celso Augusto Guimarães , Neto Reginaldo Moura Brasil
Published: May 2021

Due to its geographical location, Algeria is characterized by high spatiotemporal rainfall variability. In this study, data from 69 rain gauges located in representative humid, semiarid and arid Mediterranean basins in northeastern Algeria were analyzed from 1970–2007 on a monthly scale using continuous wavelet analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis with the aim of regionalizing the rainfall patterns. The analysis shows that northern Algeria (cluster #1), which has a humid climate, is dominated by periodic annual fluctuations in the 8–16-month band. This mode explains most of the total variance, with a contribution between 25 and 60%. In the cluster #2 and cluster #3 regions, the climate varies towards aridity (humid to arid from north to south), and the climate is dominated by long-term periodic phenomena characterizing multiannual fluctuations of 64–128 months to decadal periods greater than 128 months, which explains why the total cumulative contribution exceeds 50% of the total variance. In addition, the regional analysis of the isolated spectral bands of the 3–6-month (3 clusters), 8–16-month (3 clusters), and 1–3-year (4 clusters) scale-average variance revealed, globally and for the different regions, a long period of drought that was most pronounced during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, whereas the wet years were marked by fluctuations that exceeded the 95% confidence level during the study period, with a very remarkable tendency towards wet conditions, particularly since the late 1990s. The obtained results can assist decision-makers in better sustainable development practices, especially in the fields of water resources, agriculture, and energy.
Remote home-based resistance exercise acutely improves mood profile in older individuals under social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Zanini Gabriel de Souza , Correa Matheus Monge Soares , Fernandes Bianca , Amaral Vanessa Teixeira do , Ciolac Emmanuel Gomes
Published: May 2021

Purpose

To assess the effect of a remote home-based resistance exercise session on mood profile in older individuals under social isolation during coronavirus 19 disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
Methods

32 older individuals (20 women; age = 67.7 ± 6.4 y) who interrupted their regular physical activity routine during the COVID-19 pandemic participated in a remote home-based exercise session via video call. The Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS) questionnaire was applied one day before and immediately after a body weight exercise session (three sets of 15 to 30 reps in six exercises) to evaluate participants’ mood state.
Results

Significant post-exercise reductions (P < 0.05) were found in tension (41.2 ± 8.1), depression (61.7 ± 41.8 %), anger (81.2 ± 66.2 %) and mental confusion (42,9 ± 33.1 %), while a significant post-exercise increase (P = 0.023) was found in vigor (18.5 ± 5.1 %). No significant difference between pre- and post-exercise was found in fatigue. The pos-exercise changes on mood state factors resulted in significant reduction (P = 0.032) on total mood disorder score (20.2 ± 11.1 %) after exercise.
Conclusion

A remote home-based resistance exercise session was effective to improve mood profile in older individuals under social isolation during COVID-19 pandemic.
Temporal coherence of mechanical stimulation modulates tactile form perception
Authors: Nakatani Masashi , Kobayashi Yasuaki , Ohno Kota , Uesaka Masaaki , Mogami Sayako , Zhao Zixia , Sushida Takamichi , Kitahata Hiroyuki , Nagayama Masaharu
Published: May 2021

The human hand can detect both form and texture information of a contact surface. The detection of skin displacement (sustained stimulus) and changes in skin displacement (transient stimulus) are thought to be mediated in different tactile channels; however, tactile form perception may use both types of information. Here, we studied whether both the temporal frequency and the temporal coherency information of tactile stimuli encoded in sensory neurons could be used to recognize the form of contact surfaces. We used the fishbone tactile illusion (FTI), a known tactile phenomenon, as a probe for tactile form perception in humans. This illusion typically occurs with a surface geometry that has a smooth bar and coarse textures in its adjacent areas. When stroking the central bar back and forth with a fingertip, a human observer perceives a hollow surface geometry even though the bar is physically flat. We used a passive high-density pin matrix to extract only the vertical information of the contact surface, suppressing tangential displacement from surface rubbing. Participants in the psychological experiment reported indented surface geometry by tracing over the FTI textures with pin matrices of the different spatial densities (1.0 and 2.0 mm pin intervals). Human participants reported that the relative magnitude of perceived surface indentation steeply decreased when pins in the adjacent areas vibrated in synchrony. To address possible mechanisms for tactile form perception in the FTI, we developed a computational model of sensory neurons to estimate temporal patterns of action potentials from tactile receptive fields. Our computational data suggest that i) the temporal asynchrony of sensory neuron responses is correlated with the relative magnitude of perceived surface indentation and ii) the spatiotemporal change of displacements in tactile stimuli are correlated with the asynchrony of simulated sensory neuron responses for the fishbone surface patterns. Based on these results, we propose that both the frequency and the asynchrony of temporal activity in sensory neurons could produce tactile form perception.
La responsabilité de l’Etat pour acte illicite, en situation de pandémie
Authors: Largey Thierry
Published: May 2021

La pandémie due au nouveau coronavirus a frappé la population avec une ampleur exceptionnelle. Afin de combattre la propagation de l’agent pathogène et de préserver les capacités du système de soins en Suisse, les autorités fédérales et cantonales ont adopté une politique sanitaire d’urgence, dans un contexte marqué par d’importantes incertitudes scientifiques. La gestion d’une telle crise donne lieu à des choix de mesures de prévention et de lutte, en fonction des connaissances disponibles. D’éventuels préjudices associés à ces mesures ou à leur insuffisance ouvrent la réflexion sur l’existence d’une responsabilité de l’Etat pour ses actes illicites. Celle-ci se place tant sur le terrain des mesures ordonnées que de l’omission illicite d’en prononcer ; dans ce second cas, l’autorité n’est pas supposée faire tout ce qui possible, mais uniquement ce qui est approprié et raisonnable.

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Die Coronavirus-Pandemie hat die Bevölkerung aussergewöhnlich stark getroffen. Um die Ausbreitung des Erregers zu bekämpfen und die Leistungsfähigkeit des schweizerischen Gesundheitswesens zu erhalten, haben die Behörden des Bundes und der Kantone in einem von erheblicher wissenschaftlicher Unsicherheit geprägten Umfeld eine Notfall-Gesundheitspolitik beschlossen. Die Bewältigung einer solchen Krise führt zu verschiedenen Präventiv- und Kontrollmassnahmen, die jeweils basierend auf dem aktuellen Wissensstand getroffen werden. Mögliche Nachteile, die mit diesen Massnahmen oder deren Unzulänglichkeit verbunden sind, führen den Autor zur Frage der Verantwortung des Staates für seine unerlaubten Handlungen. Dies gilt sowohl für die angeordneten Massnahmen als auch für deren rechtswidrige Unterlassung; im letzteren Fall sollen die Behörden nicht alles Machbare unternehmen, sondern nur das, was geeignet und zumutbar ist.
CHALLENGES OF THE DUAL STUDIES MANAGEMENT: THE CASE OF UKRAINE
Authors: Babenko Vitalina , Shylovtseva Nadiia , Laptieva Anna , Pokhodenko Boris , Samoylenko Hanna
Published: May 2021

The shift to the knowledge-based economy and fast technological development put pressure on higher educational institutions with regard to the modernization of curricula, providing possibilities to overcome the skill gap and finding new tools for ensuring the quality of education services that correspond with the labor market needs. The purpose of the paper is to present the analysis of challenges and results of a currently piloted tool – dual studies – based on best German applied education practices. Authors investigate formal and informal obstacles for the introduction of this innovation in the national context, as well as solutions and potential benefits. The latter are social (decreasing the graduates’ unemployment level), economic (providing the labor market with well-educated labor force equipped with relevant qualifications) and individual (image improvement of companies, advancement of higher educational institution competitiveness and financial support of students, as well as smoothening the shift to the world of work) both short- and long-term. However, despite clear positive socio-economic effects, the dynamics of dual studies introduction as an innovation by stakeholders is far from optimistic due to the unfinished process of the formation of approaches to the dual studies management, which undermines the development of cooperation networks of the three key stakeholders – a higher educational establishment, a company and a student. There is also a current need in updating teaching methodologies, development of new relevant educational programs, curricula, modernization of the content of pre-tertiary and tertiary professional education based on an integrated approach and dual education principles. With regard to the above-listed tasks to be solved and despite a number of structural obstacles, the dual form of education is being implemented in Ukraine, which adds up to building social partnerships between educational institutions, students and employers.
FEATURES AND PROSPECTS OF AGILE APPLICATION IN THE ACTIVITY OF PUBLIC AUTHORITIES IN TERMS OF UKRAINE’S PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION TRANSFORMATIONS
Authors: Mishenina H. , Pavlenko D.
Published: May 2021

The article is devoted to the study of conceptual foundations of the Agile management, the need and prospects for implementing its methods in the sphere of public authorities. Systemic shortcomings of traditional governance in public authorities hinder the effective, prompt solution of important tasks of local socio-economic development and the country as a whole, and do not respond quickly to changes in the external environment. Now, during the period of active transformation of social, economic, political systems caused by the COVID 19 pandemic, the speed and quality of digitalization of all processes play a significant role. In the future, such changes will only deepen, covering all areas of socio-economic relations. Emphasis is placed on the processes of reforming the sphere of public administration and local self-government, in particular in terms of digitalization of public administration elements. The analysis of preconditions of active use of flexible methods of management in the public sphere is carried out. The introduction of the Agile technologies to project-oriented structures of public authorities is argued. The essence and practical aspects of effective application of Scrum methodology are considered, and the scheme of its introduction to work of bodies of regional management and local government is offered. The article analyzes the experience of practical application of the Agile approach in the public sector in some countries of the world (such as Great Britain, USA, Australia) and defines the basis for further «State Agile» development in Ukraine. The relevance of further the Agile approach popularization in public administration is confirmed by the need for changes in public-management relations, and prospects for the public digitalization in the following areas such as: development and implementation of a strategy for digital transformation of regions; implementations of digital solutions for increasing the public authorities' efficiency; ensuring electronic interaction between national, regional and local registries; digital democracy development, and so on.
Przyczyna dalsza wykluczenia nierozerwalności małżeństwa w świetle współczesnego orzecznictwa Roty Rzymskiej (2000-2012)
Authors: Góralski Wojciech
Published: May 2021

Indissolubility is an essential attribute of marriage derived from God's law, and the exclusion of indissolubility renders the marriage null and void (can. 1101 § 2 CIC). In proving exclusio boni sacramenti, an extremely important role is played by the indication of the cause (motive) of the simulation act, including the further cause (causa remota). Although this reason is not directly related to a particular marriage, it – to some extent – influences the will of the spouse rejecting the attribute of indissolubility.

When it comes to the reasons for the further exclusion of the indissolubility of marriage, three basic ones can be discerned in the most recent rotal jurisprudence: a mentality favoring the institution of divorce, the lack of sufficient religious formation and the special personality of contractors.

The postulate of priests, during the canonical pre-wedding examination, to pay close attention to the convictions and views of the spouses regarding the indissolubility of marriage seems fully justified.
Parafilia wyzwaniem dla małżeństwa kanonicznego
Authors: Szymańska Kinga
Published: May 2021

The considerations made in this article justify the conclusion that a paraphilic assesses the marriage from a selfish perspective, because everything he does is aimed at satisfying his pleasure. He does not consider the other person or the possibility of treating him objectively - in other words, a parafilik treats his partner as a thing to satisfy his selfish need for pleasure. Meanwhile, in the marriage relationship, closeness and realization of the good of the other party are sought as an equal partner. On the other hand, paraphilism, which is a sexual impulse, destroys not only the marriage but the spouse and, to a greater or lesser extent, the paraphilic himself. In a marriage with a paraphilic, there is no stability, no realization of the spouse's good, no realization of the community of life and love, only instinctive satisfaction, which is also unnatural. Nevertheless, regardless of the definition of paraphilia in medical sciences and psychology, when conducting a trial in an ecclesiastical court, it should be verified in the light of the concept of Christian anthropology, proper to canon studies. The paraphilia itself does not nullity it, it all depends on the severity of the disorder in question and its impact on the functioning in marriage.
Misja kanoniczna dla doradców życia rodzinnego
Authors: Wybult Witold
Published: May 2021

Code of Canon Law promulgated by John Paul II gave the secular in church the possibility to take part in the service of managing, teaching and sanctifying. Canon 228 seems to be the most significant and fundamental code rule to apply the canonical mission. The first point informs: „Persons who are found suitable are qualified to be admitted by the sacred pastors to those ecclesiastical offices and functions which they are able to exercise according to the precepts of the law”. The following paragraph states: „Persons who excel in necessary knowledge, prudence, and integrity are qualified to assist the pastors of the Church as experts and advisors, even in councils according to the norm of law”.

Code of Canon Law of 1983, which in a very synthetic way formalises the preparation for marriage, draws the attention to some significant pastoral elements and, which is important, leaves the initiative in all not specified matters to specific conferences of Bishops and ordinaries of place.

Polish Episcopal Conference meeting the expectations of the teaching of the Second Ecumenical Council of the Vatican and code norms published „Family Pastoral Directory”, which became the legal foundation for the requirement of demanding the sanction of competent power for family life counsellors to serve in Church, which formally means having missio canonica.

Polish dioceses respectively are developing the norms relative to the requirements set for family life counsellors during diocese synods or outside of them.
Developing Novel Drug Candidates and Repurposed Drugs for Prostate Cancer Based on Molecular Profiles
Authors: Mokou Marika , Frantzi Maria , Mischak Harald , Vlahou Antonia , Latosinska Agnieszka
Published: May 2021

Prostate cancer (PCa) carries a growing burden on society. Lack of curative
treatment and poor prognosis among patients with advanced PCa imply an urgent need
for novel and improved drug identification. This is hampered by the disease's high molecular
heterogeneity and complex molecular pathophysiology, resulting in drugs being efficient
in a few patients and cancer developing resistance to treatment. De novo drug discovery
has proven to be complex and challenging. Along with technological advancements
(mainly linked to –omics approaches) that allow for comprehensive characterization
of the molecular changes underlying disease, and considering respective developments
in bioinformatics, computational drug repurposing has emerged as a promising approach
to shorten the way from discovery to clinical application and address the disease
molecular complexity. With this article, we aimed at reviewing recent studies in which
drugs/ compounds for PCa were defined through the investigation of molecular profiling
(-omics) data and the application of drug repurposing strategies. A brief overview of the
technical requirements and associated challenges with the latter are also provided. For
that purpose, a literature search was conducted using the PubMed database. Numerous
drugs/ compounds have been proposed as potential PCa therapeutics, mostly based on
the investigation of genomics and transcriptomics data. In most cases, further assessment
in disease models is required. Since ultimately proteins are targeted by drugs, expanding
on the use of proteomics profiling data (alone or in combination with other –omics) is expected
to advance further defining new/repurposed drugs for PCa.
Potential Role of Bioactive Lipids in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Torres Wheeler , Chávez-Castillo Mervin , Peréz-Vicuña José L. , Carrasquero Rubén , Díaz María P. , Gomez Yosselin , Ramírez Paola , Cano Clímaco , Rojas-Quintero Joselyn , Chacín Maricarmen , Velasco Manuel , de Sanctis Juan Bautista , Bermudez Valmore
Published: May 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that involves a pathological
inflammatory response against articular cartilage in multiple joints throughout the body. It is a complex disorder
associated with comorbidities such as depression, lymphoma, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease
(CVD), which significantly deteriorate patients’ quality of life and prognosis. This has ignited a large initiative
to elucidate the physiopathology of RA, aiming to identify new therapeutic targets and approaches in its multidisciplinary
management. Recently, various lipid bioactive products have been proposed to have an essential
role in this process, including eicosanoids, specialized pro-resolving mediators, phospholipids/sphingolipids,
and endocannabinoids. Dietary interventions using omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids or treatment with synthetic
endocannabinoid agonists have been shown to significantly ameliorate RA symptoms. Indeed, the modulation
of lipid metabolism may be crucial in the pathophysiology and treatment of autoimmune diseases.
New Horizons in the Treatment of Neurological Disorders with Tailorable Gold
Nanoparticles
Authors: Farheen  , Khan Md. Asad , Ashraf Ghulam Md. , Bilgrami Anwar L. , Rizvi M. Moshahid A.
Published: May 2021

:

Neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, dementia, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease,
occur due to disorganization of the neurons in the nervous system. Disturbances in the nervous system cause
problems with the memory, senses and moods. In order to treat such disorders, scientists have been working
extensively, utilizing different approaches. Nanoneurotechnology has emerged as a promising tool to manage
these complicated disorders, where nanoparticles with their tunable properties such as size, shape, increased
solubility, biodegradability, surface area and sharp penetration through the biological barriers, target the central
nervous system. This technology targets damaged neurons without affecting healthy neurons and the
Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB). In this review, we discuss neurological disorders and challenges in their diagnosis
and treatment by emphasizing on the role of tailorable gold nanoparticles in therapeutic drug approaches.
Cellulosic Nanowhiskers: Preparation and Drug Delivery Application
Authors: Singh Harmeet , Kumar Vineet
Published: May 2021

:

Nanomaterials have applications in almost every field and among them, green nanomaterials
have various biological applications. Green nanomaterials are specifically useful for drug and
DNA delivery applications. Considering that cellulose is the most abundant and easily available
biomolecule, it has been used for preparing greener cellulose nanomaterials. Cellulosic nanowhiskers
are a cost-effective and green alternative to chemical non-viral gene delivery systems. Cellulose
nanowhiskers are commonly extracted from plant sources, and they are generally prepared by sulfuric
and hydrochloric acid hydrolysis of plant cellulose. In this review, the topic of cellulose
nanowhiskers as green biocompatible materials for gene and drug delivery is discussed with several
practical examples.
Structure-based Virtual Screening of Natural Compounds as Potential Anti-Allergy Agents Against Cytokine Alarmins (TSLP and IL-33)
Authors: Adamu Rahma Muhammad , Majumdhar Rita Singh , Uba Abdullahi Ibrahim
Published: May 2021

Background:

Allergic diseases are turning into an expanding occurrence around the globe,
imposing a socioeconomic burden, causing grimness and even death. Allergen encounter initiates the
influx of TH2 cells, triggering the production of TH2 associated cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13), which
in turn promotes the detrimental allergic inflammation associated with asthma, allergic rhinitis, food
allergy, urticaria, atopic eczema, and anaphylaxis. Cytokine alarmins (TSLP and IL-33) produced by
epithelial cells play important roles in the promotion of TH2 cell development and the initiation of allergic
pathogenesis.

Objectives:

To target cytokine alarmins (TSLP and IL-33) as novel therapeutic proteins, using natural
compounds as a potential cure at an early stage of allergic diseases.

Methods:

Structure-based virtual screening of two large natural compounds databases (Universal Natural
product Database (UNPD) and ZINC natural product database) was conducted for the identification
of TSLP and IL-33 inhibitors using Autodock Vina followed by rescoring of the hit compounds. using
Autodock 4.2 software. In silico physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, and toxicity analyses were conducted
to assess the drug-like properties of the hit compounds. The binding mode stability of
UNPD116849, ZINC01448143, and ZINC04096134 in the binding pocket of TSLP and IL-33 was
probed by all-atom 50 ns molecular dynamics simulation.

Results:

Five natural compounds (UNPD111, UNPD116849, ZINC01448143, ZINC15957528, and
ZINC04096134) containing different structural moieties (steroidal, chromone, benzodioxole, and indole)
were identified to inhibit TSLP and IL-33, with limonin (ZINC04096134) found to demonstrate
dual inhibitory activity potential. These compounds were found to be drug-like and toxicity-free using
in silico Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Elimination, and Toxicity (ADME-T) prediction methods.
Taken together, this study suggests the dual inhibition potential of limonin (ZINC04096134)
against the cytokine alarmins.

Conclusion:

Five natural compounds with diverse structural moieties (steroidal, chromone, benzodioxole,
and indole) were virtually identified as hit compounds against cytokine alarmins (TSLP and IL-33),
with limonin showing dual inhibitory potential.
Impact of Physicochemical Parameters on Effective Extraction of Bioactive
Compounds from Natural Sources: An Overview
Authors: Selvaraj Kunjiappan , Theivendren Panneerselvam , Pavadai Parasuraman , Sureshbabu Ram kumar Pandian , Ravishankar Vigneshwaran , Palanisamy Ponnusamy , Gopal Murugananthan , Dharmalingam Senthil Rajan , Sankaranarayanan Murugesan
Published: May 2021

Background:

Bioactive compounds obtained from natural sources like plants, algae,
mushrooms and marine have become of utmost importance in the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic
industries. Many bioactive chemicals have been found to have health-promoting characteristics,
including antioxidant, antidiabetic, antibacterial, and anticancer activities. Extraction of these bioactive
chemicals from natural sources is difficult since they are present in extremely low concentrations
inside the cell.

Methods:

The complete cropping of bioactive compounds from natural sources depends on several
physicochemical parameters such as solvent, solvent concentration, temperature, pressure, time,
etc., and they play a crucial role in determining the efficiency of extraction. Furthermore, these factors
are not inherently connected to one another, but when they are combined, they change not just
the extraction efficiency but also the process cost. As a result, the physicochemical parameters
must be properly adjusted in order to increase the extraction efficiency as well as the biological
characteristics of isolated molecules.

Results:

The article provides a thorough examination of several extraction strategies, as well as the
mechanism and concepts that underpin them. Also, the review highlights the impact of various
physicochemical parameters on the effective extraction of bioactive compounds from natural
sources to meet the standards of industrial requirements.

Conclusion:

Many of the tests have been conducted at the laboratory level; as a result, recommendations
for scaling up the extraction process have been provided in order to assess the performance
of small-scale to large-scale industrial operations.
A Review on Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Symptoms, Therapies
and Recent Case Studies
Authors: Thakur Amandeep , Choudhary Diksha , Kumar Bhupinder , Chaudhary Amit
Published: May 2021

:

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), previously known as battle fatigue syndrome or
shell shock, is a severe mental disturbance condition that is normally triggered by the experience of
some frightening/scary events or trauma where a person undergoes some serious physical or mental
harm or threatened. PTSD is a long-life effect of the continuous occurrence of traumatic conditions,
leading to the production of feelings of helplessness, intense fear, and horror in the person.
There are various examples of events that can cause PTSD, such as physical, mental, or sexual assault
at home or working place by others, unexpected death of a loved one, an accidental event,
war, or some kind of natural disaster. Treatment of PTSD includes the removal or reduction of these
emotional feelings or symptoms with the aim to improve the daily life functioning of a person.
Problems which are needed to be considered in case of PTSD like ongoing trauma, abusive or bad
relationships. Various drugs which are used for the treatment of PTSD include selective serotonin
reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (citalopram, fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, etc.); tricyclic antidepressants
(amitriptyline and isocarboxazid); mood stabilizers (Divalproex and lamotrigine); atypical antipsychotics
(aripiprazole and quetiapine), etc. In this review, we have covered the different risk factors,
case studies related to various treatment options with different age group of peoples with PTSD
and their effects on them. We have also covered the symptoms and associated disorders which can
play a key role in the development of PTSD.
Structure and Properties of Lengthy Rails after Extreme Long-Term Operation
Authors: Yuriev A.A. , Gromov V.E. , Ivanov Yu.F. , Rubannikova Yu.A. , Starostenkov M.D. , Tabakov P.Y.
Published: May 2021

The long-term operation of rails has been studied with focus on (1) the formation and behavior of structural-phase states and nanoscale structures, (2) the modelling of the processes occurring in the surface layers of rails under severe plastic deformation and (3) the methods and techniques for assessing the structural and phase states of rails, internal stresses, and their evolution during the life cycle. The book references 264 original resources and includes their direct web link for in-depth reading.