bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serbian agricultural cooperatives and their path towards the European Union: Legal aspect
Authors: Ljubojević Gordana , Maksimović-Sekulić Nina
Published: April 2021

The association of farmers as a model of sustainable rural development is a significant factor in the rapid development of agriculture and the improvement of the position of agricultural producers. The economic importance of cooperatives in the world and Europe is continuously growing, especially in the conditions of global and regional economic and financial crises, when cooperatives show a high degree of resistance to the shocks of these crises and a high percent of survival on the market. The European Union recognizes the growing role of cooperatives. The European Commission define the cooperative sector as protector and promoter of the European model of social economy, and as an extremely important factor in building and preserving local "social capital" - trust, mutual assistance and horizontal ties between citizens and organizations. New EU members and candidate countries preparing to join the EU, including the Republic of Serbia, should promote cooperatives as a key aspect of economic development and social policy. The aim of this paper is to analyze the current legal position of agricultural cooperatives in Serbia, and to determine the degree of harmonization with EU regulations and comparative analysis of their legal regulation in the EU Member States. Based on the conducted analysis, recommendations will be proposed in order to improve the legislative framework of agricultural cooperatives in Republic of Serbia in order their future successful functioning on the EU market.
Identifying medium-sized agricultural enterprises with the greatest potential for innovation development
Authors: Đuričin Sonja , Beraha Isidora
Published: April 2021

The aim of the research is to identify medium-sized agricultural enterprises with the greatest potential for innovation development. The subject of the research is the key financial performance of the observed enterprises in 2017. Data were obtained from official financial statements publicly available on the website of the Serbian Business Registers Agency (SBRA). The aim of the research was realized by applying financial analysis methods and the Altman Z-score model. The purpose of the research is to improve the efficiency of limited funds for financing innovative activities in the agricultural sector. The research results are data on enterprises with negligible probability of bankruptcy and which thus have the greatest potential for innovation development.
Current technologies for recycling fiber-reinforced composites
Authors: Jelić Aleksandra , Kovačević Danijela , Stamenović Marina , Putić Slaviša
Published: April 2021

High strength, high toughness, and low weight make fiber-reinforced composite materials important as an alternative to traditional materials. Due to their application in different fields, such as construction, aviation, marine, automotive technologies and biomedicine, their production has increased leading to the increasement of composite wastes. New technologies for managing fiber-reinforced composite wastes have been developed to solve the issue of end-of-life of these materials. The aim of this paper is to emphasize recycling technologies used for fiber reinforced composites, and their potential reusage.
Differential scanning calorimetry and vacuum stability test as methods to determine explosives compatibility
Authors: Fidanovski Bojana , Simić Danica , Dimić Mirjana , Terzić Slavica
Published: April 2021

During production, storage and manipulation of explosive materials it is important to be able to evaluate potential risks when they come in contact with each other or with other non explosives materials. For this reason various analytical and instrumental methods are being developed and implemented to study the chemical compatibility of explosives with other materials. In this research a possibility has been examined of application of thermal method-Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Vacuum Stability Test (VST) as methods to determine the compatibility of often used explosive materials: Octogen (HMX), Pentrite (PETN) and Ammonium Perchlorate (AP) with also often used polymer materials: polyamide 12 (PA 12), Hydroxyl Terminated Polybutadiene (HTPB), fluoroelastomer (Viton A). Standard STANAG4147 was used as criteria to estimate the compatibility between the observed materials.
Quality of life of elderly persons placed in a nursing home
Authors: Egeljić-Mihailović Nataša , Pavlović Jelena , Brkić-Jovanović Nina , Milutinović Dragana
Published: April 2021

Modern society in recent decades is facing a large increase in the share of people over 65 in the total population. The research shows that the trend of increasing the number of the elderly is such that it is estimated that the share of people aged 65 and over in the world population will increase significantly (by 56%), from 901 million (12.3%) in 2015 to 1.4 billion (16.5%) in 2030. Nursing homes for the accommodation and care of the elderly are safe places that provide the elderly with reduced physical and other abilities and a life worthy of a human being. A wide field of interest for the research is the perception and experience of home care users about what a quality life in this environment could represent. As part of the quality of life assessment, different domains are assessed, and a certain degree of subjective assessment is included in the choice of quality of life domains. Given the demographic changes that have led to an aging population, as well as longer life expectancy, new measures of social and health policy towards the elderly are increasingly aimed at raising the quality of life of the elderly, while scientific research is increasingly focused on identifying factors that affect the quality of life of the elderly.
Abuse of psychoactive substances by young people aged 15-24 in Serbia
Authors: Milićević Tanja , Marinković Ana , Radovanović Snežana , Gračić Danijela , Krulj Sanja , Milosavljević Jasna , Gazdić Mirjana , Simović-Šiljković Divna , Mujković Marija , Radivojević Slađana , Stanojlović Predrag
Published: April 2021

Introduction/Aim: The abuse of psychoactive substances among young people is a significant global public health problem. The aim of the study was to examine the prevalence of psychoactive substances use among adolescents in Republic of Serbia. Methods: In this secondary analysis of data, we used data from the Serbian national survey of population health from 2013, which was conducted by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Serbia and Institute of Public Health of Serbia. This cross-sectional study, which was conducted on a representative sample of the population of Serbia, included 1722 respondents aged 15 to 24 years (49% of women and 51% of men). Results: Out of the total number of young people aged 15-24, ⅓ of them declared themselves on the issue of cigarette consumption in the following way: 52.1% consumed cigarettes daily and 20.8% occasionally. Among the respondents, 41.3% were exposed to the indoor tobacco smoke for 1 hour or more daily, while 49.4% were concerned about the harmful effects of smoking on their health. Only a third said that they had never consumed alcohol or had only taken a few sips of alcohol in their lifetime. Men smoked slightly more often (52.2%) and consumed alcohol more often (every day or almost every day 0.7%, 5-6 days a week 0.7%, 3-4 days a week 4.5%, 1-2 days a week 15.7%, as well as 2-3 days a month 16.8%) than women (0.3%; 0.2%; 1.7%; 7.8%; 12%). About ¼ adolescents used 6 or more alcoholic beverages 1-3 days a month for the last 12 months. During the last 12 months, the respondents most often consumed painkillers (20.2%), sedatives (1.7%) and sleeping AIDS (2.3%) on their own initiative. There were 0.7% of users of illicit psychoactive substances (cannabis, cocaine, and glue). Conclusion: The results of the study of psychoactive substances abuse among young people in Serbia point to the necessity to work on the prevention of risky behavior.
Implicaciones teóricas, políticas y metodológicas de la investigación activista feminista
Authors: Castro Sánchez Ana María
Published: April 2021

La reflexión sobre la relación entre la investigación y el activismo es significativa para repensar los procesos de construcción de conocimientos y sus implicaciones en diferentes niveles. Nociones tradicionales y hegemónicas del conocimiento lo ubican en un lugar separado de la realidad que supuestamente pretende descubrir y explicar, lo cual lo aleja de objetivos políticos y de la necesidad de otro tipo de prácticas o acciones que lo retroalimenten. Este texto aborda las implicaciones teóricas, políticas y metodológicas que trae consigo la realización de investigaciones activistas, particularmente desde una perspectiva feminista, teniendo en cuenta que estas implicaciones no se encuentran separadas, por el contrario las decisiones y los modos de hacer en cada uno de estos ámbitos repercute en los otros, en una relación dialéctica. The reflection on the relationship between research and activism is significant in order to rethink the processes of knowledge construction and its implications at different levels. Traditional and hegemonic notions of knowledge place it in a place separate from the reality that supposedly seeks to discover and explain, which distances it from political objectives and the need for another type of practice or action that feed it back. This text deals with the theoretical, political and methodological implications of activist research, particularly from a feminist perspective, taking into account that these implications are not separated, on the contrary, the decisions and ways of doing in each one of them have an impact on the others in a dialectical relationship.
Tecnica di esecuzione di alcuni affreschi della Farnesina
Authors: Varoli-Piazza Rosalia
Published: April 2021

The epochal restoration of the entire interior decoration of the Villa Farnesina, which is currently underway by the Istituto Centrale del Restauro, is revealing the identification of a rich variety of technical issues. Specifically, the campaign in the Sala delle Prospettive, undertaken between 1976 and 1983, focuses on several new matters relating to the Renaissance tradition of Roman fresco painting. Chemical analysis of the intonaco coupled with the detailed reconstruction of the giornate results in a fascinating reevaluation of the frescoes themselves relating to their manufacture. The inspection of the surfaces reveals the exact manner in which the frescoes were constructed, making use of cartoni and spolveri, or on occasion of no final preparatory drawings at all. Secondly, the restoration of 14 pilasters a grottesche in the Sala della Galatea clearly demonstrates the exclusive use of spolveri. The remaining 11 pilasters will be cleaned in 1985. Once this campaign in the room is completed, then the exact nature of this early 16th-century cycle, with its 19th-century ‘restorations,’ will be identifiable, and will subsequently be integrated with the restoration of the Loggia di Psiche, which will commence in 1985.
Plutarco e la cultura figurativa nell’età di Paolo iii : Castel Sant’Angelo, Sala Paolina
Authors: Guerrini Roberto
Published: April 2021

The significance of Plutarch as the major historical source for the iconographical scheme of the decoration in the Sala Paolina, Castel Sant’Angelo (1540s) is discussed. Consideration of the fresco cycle in the room is comprehensively focused on the allusions in the iconographic programme to Paul iii and the ideology of his pontificate. The full range of literary sources is investigated and the primacy of Plutarch shown through detailed reading of each scene on the ceiling and walls. The clear associations between Alexander and Paul iii are also noted. From this, observations are made regarding the programmatic intentions of the cycle as a visualization of the political and cultural aims of Paul iii.
A historicização da herança geracional segundo a teoria freudiana: um imperativo para os estudos psicanalíticos feministas
Authors: Ferreira da Costa Virginia Helena
Published: April 2021

Procuramos expor o pluralismo de leituras da obra freudiana mediante a exploração da hipótese de historicização da formação psíquica dos sujeitos, especialmente relativa ao complexo de Édipo e Supereu. Partindo da perspectiva de estudos feministas, verificamos no corpus teórico freudiano se há a possibilidade de que o avanço sócio-histórico seja um fator de modificação de concepções que, na leitura freudiana clássica, seriam lidas como imutáveis, fixas e rígidas cultural e historicamente. Madelon Sprengnether, Nancy Chodorow e Judith Butler serão retomadas para criticar a leitura clássica e generalizante do complexo de Édipo enquanto “estrutural”, essencializado e substancializado. Sugerimos que, sendo uma lei hegemônica, a vivência edípica não pode ser completamente ultrapassada, mas pode ser performativamente atuada de formas desviantes de sua estrutura classicamente pensada por Freud. Nesse âmbito, a transmissão geracional é nosso enfoque primordial. Ela é debatida ao menos em três momentos complementares: na análise da filogênese, da herança arcaica e do Édipo social exposta em Totem e tabu (1913), na herança narcísica de expectativas e ideais compreendida em Introdução ao narcisismo (1914) e na teoria da perpetuação de valores e tradições morais via identificações geracionais superegoicas que consta nas Novas Conferências sobre Psicanálise (1933).
GH: o feminino como mediação hermenêutica do gênero humano
Authors: Lucchetti Bingemer Maria Clara
Published: April 2021

Este artigo examina uma obra de Clarice Lispector, o romance A Paixão segundo GH. A análise pretende ser feita desde o ponto de vista do feminino como hermenêutica do itinerário realizado pela protagonista da obra. Fazemos essa análise levando em conta as etapas marcadas pela presença do feminino, desde a teologia como perspectiva. Identificamos o caminho da personagem clariceana como kenótico e místico.
Visibilidade e invisibilidade: Interseções literárias do feminino na Bíblia
Authors: Almendra Luísa Maria
Published: April 2021

Este artigo procura uma abordagem da questão da visibilidade e invisibilidade do feminino na Bíblia, procurando debater os diferentes matizes que lhe são inerentes. Procura-se uma verdade e uma redescoberta da estratégia literária bíblica que seja integradora e ampla. O debate supõe conhecer algumas notas prévias e a fragilidade de algumas formulações convencionais. Necessita igualmente de abrir-se a uma visibilidade negativa versus uma positiva, que a amplie e questione. E, neste contexto, que se redescubram os contornos de uma surpreendente invisibilidade do feminino; se desenvolva um novo olhar sobre a própria visibilidade do feminino na Bíblia e sobretudo que toda a reflexão se abra à dimensão invisível de um agir sábio, que é participação no grande mistério desde logo inscrito na própria criação do ser humano.
Pathological obesity a skin diseases. Comparison of the effect of obesity surgical treatment with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on the treatment of dermatological diseases
Authors: Ziajka Piotr
Published: April 2021

Background: Obesity is a worldwide major public health problem with an alarmingly increasing prevalence over the past 2 decades. The consequences of obesity in the skin are underestimated. In this article, we present a comparison of the effect of surgical treatment of obesity using the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on the treatment of dermatological diseases. Materials and Methods: Two study groups were included in the analysis. Study group 40 patients with BMI over 34.9 and control group 40 patients. Results: In both analyzed groups, the following was found: eczema of the lower legs, eczema and folliculitis. All operated persons lost an average of 16% of body weight in the first 3 months. After another 3 months, another 14% of body weight Conclusions: Patients in the Study Group responded to treatment better than patients in the Control Group. Obesity causes changes in skin physiology that predispose obese people to develop a variety of skin symptoms and diseases.
Strategy to improve the accuracy of convolutional neural network architectures applied to digital image steganalysis in the spatial domain
Authors: Tabares-Soto Reinel , Arteaga-Arteaga Harold Brayan , Mora-Rubio Alejandro , Bravo-Ortíz Mario Alejandro , Arias-Garzón Daniel , Alzate Grisales Jesús Alejandro , Burbano Jacome Alejandro , Orozco-Arias Simon , Isaza Gustavo , Ramos Pollan Raul
Published: April 2021

In recent years, Deep Learning techniques applied to steganalysis have surpassed the traditional two-stage approach by unifying feature extraction and classification in a single model, the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). Several CNN architectures have been proposed to solve this task, improving steganographic images’ detection accuracy, but it is unclear which computational elements are relevant. Here we present a strategy to improve accuracy, convergence, and stability during training. The strategy involves a preprocessing stage with Spatial Rich Models filters, Spatial Dropout, Absolute Value layer, and Batch Normalization. Using the strategy improves the performance of three steganalysis CNNs and two image classification CNNs by enhancing the accuracy from 2% up to 10% while reducing the training time to less than 6 h and improving the networks’ stability.
Análisis georreferenciado sobre jóvenes infractores de ley de la comuna de Puente Alto, Santiago de Chile
Authors:   Universidad de las Américas, Santiago, Chile, Sepúlveda Gabriel , Sepúlveda Leonardo ,   Universidad Politécnica de Catalunya, Barcelona
Published: April 2021

A partir de reconocer los efectos indeseados de una política habitacional regida por la maximización de la cobertura implementada en las últimas décadas en Chile, y desde una perspectiva crítica respecto al uso de una georreferenciación estigmatizadora y meramente situacional aplicada a problemáticas delictuales, se propone un uso alternativo de estas técnicas. El objetivo es precisar la concentración sectorial de jóvenes que han infringido la ley tanto para favorecer la discusión en torno a medidas y sanciones en materia de justicia juvenil, como para orientar acciones correctivas a nivel de políticas habitacionales y urbanización, las que deberían inspirarse en la consagración de un verdadero derecho a la ciudad.
La plusvalía como sistema de financiación urbana: estudio comparativo en Ciudad de México y Manizales, Colombia
Authors:   Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México., Isunza-Vizuet Georgina , Castro Edisson ,   Universidad de Manizales, Manizales, Colombia., Munévar Claudia ,   Universidad de Manizales, Manizales, Colombia.
Published: April 2021

Se presenta un análisis de los instrumentos de recuperación de la plusvalía urbana en Ciudad de México y en Manizales, Colombia. Ambos contextos, aunque heterogéneos, tienen referencias contrastables en el marco regulatorio, en los instrumentos de recaudación y en los alcances tributarios. Se parte de una discusión conceptual de la plusvalía y la revisión de experiencias internacionales en los métodos, resultados y limitaciones de los instrumentos utilizados. En seguida se desarrolla un análisis comparativo de las bases normativas e instrumentales de recuperación de la plusvalía. Finalmente, se examinan los alcances recaudatorios en las finanzas públicas locales.
Evolution of Objective Structured Clinical Examination- Actual to Virtual
Authors: Waghmare Tripti K Srivastava , Waghmare Lalitbhushan S
Published: April 2021

Objective Structured Clinical/Practical Examination (OSCE/OSPE) has come a long way since its inception by Harden RM in 1975. Literature offers many studies and reviews about its applicability in assessment and impact in learning outcomes. The present review traces the variants of OSCE as it has evolved over time with need and contextual variations, though still being sought after as one of the most valid tools in assessment of clinical and professional skills. The article reviews various forms viz., Group OSCE, Team OSCE, Objective structured assessments of technical skills, Shadow OSCE, Inter-professional OSCE, Inter-professional OSCE with Allied Embedded Actors, Reverse OSCE, Culture OSCE, e OSCE, Tele OSCE and Virtual OSCE in terms of the method and utility. Inspite of numerous variations, the principle of OSCE remain intact i.e., an effective tool to foster learning and attainment of clinical/practical competencies by direct observation of skills, timely and developmental feedback. The manuscript also gives an example of blueprint for assessment of skills wherein such OSCE variations can be planned depending on the nature and objective of assessment.
From Knowledge to Practice: Are we Prepared to Handle COVID-19 Pandemic? A Health Centre Based Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Singh Surinderpal , Chaudhary Anurag , Satija Mahesh , Sharma Pranjl
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Knowledge is the beginning of prevention, and transformation of knowledge into preventive practices. Knowledge, attitude and practice surveys among populations provide useful information about community behaviour in prevention and control of infectious diseases like Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Aim: To assess the knowledge, perceptions and practices of patients about COVID-19 visiting Outpatient Department (OPD) of a health training centre during lockdown period. Materials and Methods: A health centre based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1st to 15th May 2020 for 15 days in Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC) of Department of Community Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India. All patients (18 years and above) who visited the healthcare facility for the first time (visit) during the study period were included in the study. A total of 485 participants recruited through consecutive sampling were interviewed using adapted World Health Organisation (WHO) and previously published questionnaire on knowledge (15 questions), perceptions (2 questions) and practices (3 questions). Knowledge score ranged from 0 to maximum 15. Analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0 statistical software. Descriptive statistics, t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Chi-square test were used to determine the difference between the groups for different variables at 0.05 level of significance. Results: Mean knowledge score of the participants was 10.6±2.1. Out of 485 participants (mean age 48.8±16.2 years), majority 425 (87.6%) knew about main clinical symptoms and 448 (92.4%) knew isolation and treatment of COVID-19 infected persons as an effective way of prevention and control of COVID-19. However, 284 (58.6%) and 276 (56.9%) participants knew about transmission through respiratory droplets and by touching contaminated surfaces, respectively. Educational status showed an independent association with higher knowledge. Total 190 (39.2%) of the participants agreed on stigma against specific individuals. Regularly washing of hands (77.7%), three layered masks (29.9%) and physical distancing (33.2%) were commonly followed practices. Higher knowledge score was significantly associated with regular handwashing practices (p<0.001) and wearing of three layered masks (p<0.001). Conclusion: Results highlighted good knowledge about COVID-19 of study participants. However, continued efforts over time are required to increase the COVID appropriate behavior regarding usage of face mask and physical distancing.
Haemoglobin Olympia {β Codon 20 (B2) G→A, Val→Met}: A Silent Haemoglobin Variant
Authors: Bhave Abhay A , Iyer Lakshmi , Kazi Nawal , Gorivale Manju , Nadkarni Anita
Published: April 2021

High oxygen affinity haemoglobin variants are rare and often underdiagnosed in persistent erythrocytosis with no apparent aetiology. Here the author present a 29-year-old Indian male patient with a long-standing history of erythrocytosis which was incidentally detected. The proband had a prothrombotic family history of cerebral vessel stroke in his paternal grandfather at a young age and unexplained erythrocytosis in his father and brother. A review of his haemograms showed persistent high haemoglobin values. Routine tests did not reveal any specific aetiology and haemoglobin electrophoresis by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) showed absence of any abnormal peak or unstable haemoglobin. DNA sequencing of the β globin gene revealed heterozygosity for codon 20 {GTG→ATG, Valine (Val)→ Methionine (Met)} mutation confirming the presence of an electrophoretically silent Hb variant - Haemoglobin Olympia in him and his extended family members. This case study emphasises importance of this rare entity of high oxygen affinity haemoglobin variant as a differential diagnosis while screening for erythrocytosis. This is the first case report of Haemoglobin Olympia from India reported in the literature.
Clinico-Biochemical Study of the Safety and Tolerability of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) with Special Reference to SSRI Induced Hyponatremia in Humans and Animals
Authors: Sarkar Suhena , Roy Uttam Kumar , Biswas Supreeti , Mallick Asim Kumar , Mandal Purnendu
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are recommended as first-line anti-depressants in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) because of their relatively benign safety profile. Hyponatremia is under reported and notorious adverse effect of SSRIs shown by few Randomised Clinical Trials (RCTs). There are only few published studies of SSRIs on serum sodium level in human and animal model. Aim: To determine SSRI induced hyponatremia in human and its correlation with age. Materials and Methods: The clinical part is a prospective cohort study whereas second part is experimental study involving animals. In clinical part-Patients of either sex, aged above 18 years, attending the Out-Patient Department (OPD) of Psychiatry of a tertiary hospital and diagnosed as MDD Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) V with the help of a senior psychiatrist, were screened and recruited in the study after satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria by consecutive sampling. Patients were prescribed fluoxetine (n=90), sertraline (n=55), paroxetine (n=30) and escitalopram (n=25). Parameters recorded (serum sodium) at baseline, 4th week, 8th week and 12th week. Symptoms due to hyponatremia and Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR) were also checked. Multiple group comparison at different visits for sodium level was done using one-way ANOVA and repeated measures ANOVA test and relationship of blood sodium level with age were estimated with bivariate correlation. Animal experiment was done in Pharmacology Department, animals were randomised into 5 groups control, fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine and escitalopram (n=6). Blood sodium checked at baseline, 2nd week and 4th week. Kruskal Wallis test and Friedman’s test done to detect changes in sodium level in follow-up period. Results: Mean age ranged between 40-50 years with equal gender distribution. Both within group and between group analysis revealed significant difference in blood sodium level (p-value< 0.0001). Hyponatremia was strongly correlated with age (correlation coefficient >-0.783). Most participants (184 out of 200) developed asymptomatic hyponatremia. Two among sertraline developed seizure leading to discontinuation to therapy. About 72 (38.09%) ADRs belonged to probable, mostly belonging to fluoxetine and sertraline group, developement of hyponatremia was 9 days (median) from starting SSRI. In animal part within group analysis revealed significant change of sodium from baseline in all drug treated animals (p-value<0.0001). Conclusion: SSRI is associated with hyponatremia and is common in elderly patients. Monitoring of serum sodium is necessary for patients on SSRI.
Heavy Metal Content and Physico-Chemical Analyses of Soils under the Litter of some Medicinal Taxa in the Luki Biosphere Reserve, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Mukeba Florent Biduaya , Ngondo Myriam Mukadi , Kadima Nazaire Kabemba , Ilonga Prince Bofati , Bibasuya Patrick Kayembe , Ngelinkoto Patience Mpia , Mutwale Paulin Kapepula , Ngbolua Koto-te-Nyiwa , Mwange Kalima Nkoma , Mukoko Johnny Bopopi , Ngombe Nadège Kabamba , Mpiana Pius T. , Fundu Théophile Mbemba
Published: April 2021

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the texture, mineral element and heavy metal content of the soil under the litter of different selected species in relation to the plan of their pedogenesis.

Methods: The granulometric analysis of the various samples based on laser diffraction, measurements of Total Nitrogen and Total Organic Carbon were performed using the Elemental Analyzer, the Organic Matter content is estimated by the loss of ignition method using a Salvis furnace, In order to estimate the CaCO3 content. The same samples were heated in the oven at 1000°C for 60 minutes and reweighed. The carbonate content is estimated by the loss in mass during this second firing, multiplied by 2.274 which is the molecular weight ratio between CaCO3 and CO2. The heavy metal and mineral composition was evaluated by ICP-AES and AAS.

Results: The granulometric analyses show a sandy texture, according to the FAO classification. The organic matter content thus observed in the soils under the litter of these four species did not show any significant difference. The concentration of major mineral elements recorded in soils under the litter of Blighia welwitchii, Oncoba welwitschii, Zanthoxylum gilletii and Harungana madagascariensis did not show any significant difference. However, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium have a high concentration compared to calcium and sodium. This study showed that the levels of cadmium, lead, arsenic and aluminum in the various samples of litter soils of all plant species including nickel for B. welwitschii are above the standards set by the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment for soil quality. Pollution factors for aluminum are the highest. This indicates that aluminum is the most polluting metal. The low pollution factors for lead and nickel are due to the low fixation of these metals by soils.

Conclusions: Our study took place in the Luki Biosphere reserve and showed that the different soils under litter are polluted by very toxic and persistent heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, aluminum, arsenic and nickel. This study has revealed new aspects of heavy metal pollution. This pollution represents a serious threat to the environment in general and to humans in particular through the food chain.
Design of a Small Capacity Geothermal Power Plant for Cooling and Heating Systems of Health Resort in Jordan
Authors: Badran Omar Othman , Al-Marahleh Ghazi Salem , AlKhawaldeh Al- Faroq Omar , Aldabaibeh Izzeldeen Abed
Published: April 2021

Jordan is a developing non-producing oil country; a major part of its needed energy is imported from the neighboring countries in the forms of oil and gas, the cost of this imported energy creates a heavy financial burden on the national economy which reflects on the development plans and the standard living of the people. Jordan has good potential of geothermal energy at different places. Therefore, several applications are suggested to be utilized in the agricultural and industrial fields. In this study the binary thermodynamic cycle is suggested to utilize the geothermal source into the form of power plant for generating electricity for heating and cooling system of a health resort in the nearby region of the geothermal field. Also in this study, the air- conditioning and heating loads for a health resort are calculated and the underground thermal power plant is designed to provide the suitable power supply to the health resort. It is concluded that the geothermal resources of energy is proved to be one of the good options of renewable energy sectors in Jordan. Therefore the geothermal power plant can be an option for electrical production of the Jordanian volcanic mountains resorts.
Phytochemical Study, Acute Toxicity and Fertility Potential Effect of Sarcocephalus latifolius (Smith) on the Histology of Wistar Rats Testicles
Authors: Nadia Blahi Méa Adélaïde , Emmanuel Affy Mataphouet , Ernest Zougrou N’guessan , Koffi Kouakou
Published: April 2021

Sarcocephalus latifolius is a popular medicinal plant used in treatment of many ailments basically in West Africa and particularly in Ivory Coast. Thereby, this study aims to find out the major chemical groups in the aqueous leaf extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius, its acute toxicity and its fertility potential. In this perspective, a phytochemical study to determine chemical groups was carried out. Furthermore, the acute oral toxicity study was conducted according to OECD guideline 423, using three female rats sequentially. As for the fertility study, it was performed on the histology of the testes of forty albino rats of 60 days of age weighing between 130 g and 170 g and treated for 30 and 60 days, at doses of 250; 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight from the aqueous extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius. The phytochemical screaming of the aqueous leaf extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius revealed the presence of polyterpene sterols, polyphenols, flavonoids, quinonics and alkaloids. In addition, the acute oral toxicity assay did not reveal any signs of toxicity, morbidity or mortality at studied doses. Finally, the histology of testes of the albino rats treated with the plant extract showed a more intense spermatogenesis, seminiferous tubules and more developed interstitial tissue compared to control. To sum up Sarcocephalus latifolius, although rich in phytochemical compounds, might not be toxic in a single dose and might have androgenic effects.
Social Consumption and Production Technologies in the Context of the Landscape of the Hillside Surface in the Municipality of Mucambo-Ce
Authors: Carvalho Bruna Lima , Sobrinho José Falcão
Published: April 2021

The present research aims to study social technology in Mucambo, Pedra de Fogo, and Pajeú, based on an approach to the elements that make up the Coreaú Watershed. The Brazilian Northeast has been a region punished by the lack of water due to irregular rainfall. Such a problem, which has been part of the reality in that region, is, among other factors, accompanied by a population that shows resistance to the difficulties related to water conditions. The manuscript discusses social technology in the Mucambo outback, which stores water during the rainy season to be used by humans and in agriculture in the drought period. This aspect is significant because of the water shortage in the dry season in the location. This way, social technology grant water assistance to the population, providing security for this resource. The results highlight the social technology benefits, being the most significant water source for families living in rural areas. Given the research results, the cisterns are relevant for consumption and production in rural areas since people reported that they store water in good quality.
Study of EBV and Associated Gastric Malignancies
Authors: Supraja B. , Vardarajalu . , Karkuzhali P. , Thanka J.
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Epstein Barr virus (EBV), is a member of the genus Lymphocryptoviridae and Herpesviridae subfamily. It is pervasive and infects more than 90% of the adult population worldwide. In childhood and early adulthood primary infection occurs through salivary contact. The majority of children are asymptomatic, but some adolescents and young adults can develop infectious mononucleosis with harmless clinical manifestations.

Objective: To analyze the expression of Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) Latent membrane protein – 1 (LMP-1) in various histological subtypes of gastric carcinoma.

Materials and Methods: Out of the 43cases, 32 cases were proven to be malignant, out of which 30 cases who had adequate clinical data were included in the study. The materials were processed and sections were cut at 5 microns. Hematoxylin and eosin staining of sections was done. Histopathological examination of these sections was done.

Result: The most common presenting symptom associated with Gastric carcinoma was upper abdominal pain (epigastric pain). Both the LMP-1 IHC positive cases showed a  low score when assessed using the LMP-1 immunohistochemistry scoring system (used in nasopharyngeal carcinomas). This may be due to the older age group of patients. For the effective control of viral cancer, there should be rapid, sensitive, specific, cost-effective diagnostics assays and management.

Conclusion: Hence our study justifies the role of EBV in the oncogenesis of gastric carcinoma. More elaborate and extensive studies are warranted to further emphasize this theory.
Study on Carcinomas of Breast with Special Reference to Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Her 2/neu
Authors: Rout Sharmistha , Varadaraju . , Josephine A. , Srivastava Vindu
Published: April 2021

Carcinoma is a major health issue worldwide. Breast cancer is by far the most common of all cancers diagnosed in women, in the world. The incidence of breast cancer has risen in India (22.9%). Breast cancer cases in India are expected to increase by 26% by 2020. There be existing 2,088,849 new cases of breast cancer worldwide foremost to 626,679 deaths in 2018. Among the Indian women, cancer cervix and breast carcinoma account for 60% of the total cases, of which the incidence of breast carcinoma is 10.4%. Angiogenesis is nothing but the growth of new vasculature from the pre-existing vasculature. This physiological process is involved in organ and embryonic development, wound healing, and reproductive functions in the adults. However, pathologically, angiogenesis is implicated in macular degeneration, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and tumour growth. HER2/neu status has recently become clinically very relevant because it has been demonstrated that HER-2/neu positive tumors have worse prognosis than HER2/neu negative tumors. To correlate the expressions of the Immunohistochemical markers HER-2/neu and Vascular Endothelial Growth factor (VEGF) with the various clinicopathological parameters like age, tumour size, histological type, grade, stage and lymph node metastasis status. It concludes an unequivocal association between the expressions of the two immunohistochemical markers, HER-2/neu and VEGF in breast carcinoma cases and its implication in guiding therapy against HER-2/neu over-expressing tumors.
Role of Immunohistochemistry Markers (p53 and CEA), in Study of Colorectal Tumours
Authors: Lakpa Sapam Chingkhei , Kumar R. Vinoth , Lilly Mary
Published: April 2021

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and the second in women globally. There is a marked variation in the incidence of colorectal carcinoma worldwide, where western countries having high rate compared to others. p53 tumour suppressor gene is one of the most intensively studied tumour markers in the colorectal tumours. Two markers were used, p53 (oncoprotein p53) and CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) in the study. The 102 cases of paraffin-embedded samples were processed for the immunohistochemistry examination. After the analysis of the selected patients regarding the antibodies distribution, statistical analysis was performed. The current study showed that there was a statistically significant correlation existing between p53 and CEA in each tumour type irrespective of its histological grades. The immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed on 4-µm thick sections from 10% formalin- fixed paraffin-embedded tissue blocks.
The predictive value of normal EEGs in dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Briels Casper T. , Stam Cornelis J. , Scheltens Philip , Gouw Alida A.
Published: April 2021

Objective

To determine differences in clinical presentation and disease progression between patients with dementia due to AD with visually normal and abnormal EEG recordings. We hypothesized that patients with normal electroencephalographs (EEGs) are a representation of the heterogeneity of AD. We expected this group to have a phenotype with relatively predominant hippocampal atrophy, memory deficits, and a slower disease progression.

Methods

Patients were included based on diagnosis of dementia due to AD, positive amyloid and tau cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers, and the availability of EEG recordings. Patients were categorized in groups of normal (N = 208) and abnormal (N = 336) EEG recordings based on visual assessment by experienced neurophysiologists. At baseline demographics, cognitive, MRI, and CSF measures were compared between groups. Cognitive data from follow‐up visits were assessed by linear mixed‐effects models (LMMs), and corrected for baseline value, sex, age, and educational level, to compare cognitive deterioration over time between groups.

Results

About 1 in 4.5 patients with AD dementia had a visually normal EEG and this group showed better overall cognitive performance compared to the abnormal group, where memory was the most prominent affected domain. The normal group showed less global and parietal but similar medial temporal atrophy. Follow‐up data showed a slower deterioration on all tested cognitive domains in the normal EEG group.

Interpretation

Patients with dementia due to AD and visually normal EEG recordings showed a milder clinical presentation and had a milder disease progression compared to patients with an abnormal EEG. These results provide evidence of clinical and biological heterogeneity within AD dementia.
Epitaxial Growth of Nanostructured Li2Se on Lithium Metal for All Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Park Hyunjung , Kim Jeongheon , Lee Dongsoo , Park Joonhyeok , Jo Seonghan , Kim Jaeik , Song Taeseup , Paik Ungyu
Published: April 2021

Lithium is considered to be the ultimate anode material for high energy‐density rechargeable batteries. Recent emerging technologies of all solid‐state batteries based on sulfide‐based electrolytes raise hope for the practical use of lithium, as it is likely to suppress lithium dendrite growth. However, such devices suffer from undesirable side reactions and a degradation of electrochemical performance. In this work, nanostructured Li2Se epitaxially grown on Li metal by chemical vapor deposition are investigated as a protective layer. By adjusting reaction time and cooling rate, a morphology of as‐prepared Li2Se is controlled, resulting in nanoparticles, nanorods, or nanowalls with a dominant (220) plane parallel to the (110) plane of the Li metal substrate. Uniaxial pressing the layers under a pressure of 50 MPa for a cell preparation transforms more compact and denser. Dual compatibility of the Li2Se layers with strong chemical bonds to Li metal and uniform physical contact to a Li6PS5Csulfide electrolyte prevents undesirable side reactions and enables a homogeneous charge transfer at the interface upon cycling. As a result, a full cell coupled with a LiCoO2‐based cathode shows significantly enhanced electrochemical performance and demonstrates the practical use of Li anodes with Li2Se layers for all solid‐state battery applications.
In vitro investigation of biophysical interactions between Ag(I) complexes of bis(methyl)(thia/selena)salen and ct‐DNA via multi‐spectroscopic, physicochemical and molecular docking methods along with cytotoxicity study
Authors: Tripathi Mamta , Syed Rabbani , Stalin Antony , Malik Abdul , Pande Rama , Asatkar Ashish K.
Published: April 2021

Four silver(I) (Ag(I)) complexes: 1.PF6, 2.PF6, 1.ClO4 and 2.ClO4 of bis(methyl)thia salen (1) and bis (methyl)selena salen (2) with two different counter anions (PF6− and ClO4−) have been investigated for DNA binding properties. In vitro interactional association between the Ag(I) complexes and ct‐DNA has been examined by performing spectroscopic titrations on absorption spectrophotometer and fluorescence spectrophotometer. A competitive binding study has also been done using a fluorescence spectrophotometer with ethidium bromide as a classical intercalator. The spectroscopic methods revealed a major groove. Viscometry and agarose gel electrophoresis experiments have also been performed as physicochemical methods to confirm the binding of complex molecules with DNA. Molecular docking analysis has been executed to obtain the theoretical insight into the mode of binding. The docking study demonstrated the major groove binding of all four complexes to the DNA with electrostatic metal–phosphate interactions (between the metal and the backbone of DNA) and hydrophobic interactions. Cytotoxicity of the complexes has been studied on the Human Fibroblast foreskin (HFF) cell line. The cytotoxicity results showed positive gesture for moving ahead to the next level of screening; the values were above 10 μM which are appreciated for the normal cell lines.
Late‐occurring infections in a contemporary cohort of hematopoietic cell transplantation survivors
Authors: Sy Andrew , Chanson Dayana , Berano Teh Jennifer , Wong Florence L. , Nakamura Ryotaro , Dadwal Sanjeet , Armenian Saro H.
Published: April 2021

Background

There is a paucity of studies describing the incidence and risk factors for late‐occurring (≥1 year) infectious complications in contemporary survivors of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 641 1‐year survivors of HCT, transplanted between 2010 and 2013 as adults, and in remission from their primary disease. Standardized definitions were used to characterize viral, fungal, and bacterial infections. Cumulative incidence of infections was calculated, with relapse/progression considered as a competing risk event. Fine‐Gray subdistribution hazard ratio estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were obtained, adjusted for relevant covariates.

Results

Median age at HCT was 55.2 years (range 18.1–78.1 years); 54.0% were survivors of allogeneic HCT. The 5‐year cumulative incidence of a late‐occurring infection for the entire cohort was 31.6%; the incidence of polymicrobial (≥2) infections was 10.1%. In survivors who developed at least one infection, the 5‐year incidence of a subsequent infection was 45.3%. Among allogeneic HCT survivors, patients with acute lymphoblastic (HR = 1.82 95% CI [1.12–2.96]) or myeloid (HR = 1.50 95% CI [1.02–2.20]) leukemia, and those with an elevated HCT‐Comorbidity index score (HR = 1.09 95% CI [1.01–1.17]) were more likely to develop late‐occurring infections; there was an incremental risk associated with severity of graft versus host disease (GVHD) at 1‐year post‐HCT (mild: HR = 2.17, 95% CI [1.09–4.33]; moderate/severe: HR = 3.78, 95% CI [1.90–7.53]; reference: no GVHD).

Conclusions

The burden of late‐occurring infections in HCT survivors is substantial, and there are important patient‐ and HCT‐related modifiers of risk over time. These findings may help guide personalized screening and prevention strategies to improve outcomes after HCT.
Traumatic rupture of the posterior deltoid tendon during weight lifting: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Sanderson Brent , Bogard Michael , Jazayeri Reza
Published: April 2021

Deltoid tendon humeral sided avulsion leads to discomfort and functional limitation in the young active population. This report illustrates a case for surgical treatment with a simple suspensory device that allows for early return to activity.