bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in the Expression of DNA Methylation Related Genes in Leukocytes of Persons with Alcohol and Drug Dependence
Authors: Krasteva M. , Koycheva Y. , Taseva T. , Simeonova S.
Published: November 2020

Background and objectives. Though numerous studies have shown that the dysregulation of the epigenetic control is involved in disease manifestation, limited data is available on the transcriptional activity of DNA methylation related genes in alcohol and drug addiction. With regard to this, in this study we analyzed the expression levels of genes involved in DNA methylation, including DNMT1, DNMT3a, MeCP2, MBD1, MBD2, MBD3 and MBD4, in blood samples of alcohol and drug dependent persons in comparison to healthy abstainers.

Methods. The study included 51 participants: 16 persons with alcohol dependence, 17 persons with drug dependence and 18 clinically healthy controls. To detect the relative mRNA expression levels of the studied genes, Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis was applied.

Results. Of the seven studied genes, four showed altered expression. MeCP2 and MBD1 were downregulated in the alcohol dependent group (FC = 0.805, p = 0.015 and FC = 0.846, p = 0.034, respectively), while DNMT1 and MBD4 were upregulated in the group with drug dependence (FC = 1.262, p = 0.001 and FC = 1.249, p = 0.005, respectively). No statistically significant changes in the relative mRNA expression were found for DNMT3a, MBD2 and MBD3 genes.

Conclusions. Our results are indicative for a role of DNA methylation related genes in alcohol and drug addiction mediated through changes in their transcriptional activity. Studies in this direction will enable better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of addictions supporting the development of more effective therapeutic strategies.
Outcome After Azacitidine Treatment in Patients with High-Risk Myeolodysplastic Syndrome, Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia Type 2 and Acute Myeloid Leukemia – A Single Center Experience (Preliminary Data)
Authors: Varbanova V. , Anastasova-Postadzhiyan A. , Nedeva A. , Nikolov I. , Kindekov I. , Kuyumdzhieva Y. , Petkova N. , Vikentieva E. , Lubomir M. , Raynov J.
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Hypomethylating agents have become a standard therapy for certain myeloid malignancies.

Aim: The aim of this preliminary study was to assess efficacy and safety of azacitidine in patients with myelodysplas tic syndromes (MDS), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia with 10-29% blasts (CMML-2) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated in a single center.

Material and Methods: Twenty-six (69% male and 31% female, median age 67.8 years) patients (MDS, = 15; CMML-2, n = 2; AML, n = 9) treated with azacytidine in the period April 2017 to October 2018 year were included in the study. Disease assessment was performed after the 3rd cycle, 6th cycle, and at progression.

Results: The median number of administered cycles was 6 (1-16). Erythroid response was achieved in 46.7% after 3rd cycle and 66.7% after 6th cycle. Platelet response was reached in 72.7% after 3rd cycle and 40% after 6th cycle and neutrophil hematological improvement in 27.3% and 50%, respectively. Only one patient (8.3%) progressed after the 6th cycle, stable disease or better marrow response was achieved in the others. The median progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 7.9 and 10.7 months in the MDS group and 9.7 and 11.5 months in the AML group, respectively. None of the patients with CMML-2 progressed at the end of the study. The only found factor to correlate with shortened PFS and OS was IPSS high risk MDS. The most frequent grade ≥ 3 adverse events was neutropenia 38.5%, followed by anemia 15.4% and thrombocytopenia 11.5%.

Conclusion: The therapy with azacitidine is an option for elderly patients with high-risk MDS, AML and CMML-2 that provides PFS and OS for approximately one year irrespective of age or nosological subgroup. These are preliminary data and larger patient cohort and longer follow-up period are needed for clinical conclusions.
Changes in Bone Metabolism and Structure in Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Yankova I. , Shinkov A. , Kovatcheva R.
Published: November 2020

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a key regulator of bone turnover. Depending on the duration of action, the hormone causes catabolic and anabolic effects by binding with specific receptors (PTHR1) in the bone. Various cells expressing PTHR1 on their surface are involved in the process – osteoblasts, osteocytes, bone marrow stromal cells, T-lymphocytes and macrophages. In physiological conditions PTH balances the bone metabolism. Intermittent pharmacological doses of PTH lead to the prevalence of bone formation and are used in the treatment of osteoporosis. Persistently elevated levels of PTH stimulate bone resorption by impacting mainly the cortical bone. New imaging and analysis techniques show that high PTH levels can also have an adverse effect on trabecular microarchitecture. Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a disease characterized by increased bone metabolism, decreased bone mineral density (BMD), inadequate osteoid mineralization and an increased risk of fractures. Prolonged overproduction of PTH leads to stimulation of bone resorption and defects in bone formation, mainly causing loss of cortical bone mass, while in the trabecular bone predominate demineralization processes. One explanation of these findings is the enhanced stimulation of RANKL expression by osteoblasts with decreased OPG expression and bone formation at the same time.
Overcoming bacterial resistance to antibiotics: the urgent need – a review
Authors: Stachelek Magdalena , Zalewska Magdalena , Kawecka-Grochocka Ewelina , Sakowski Tomasz , Bagnicka Emilia
Published: November 2020

The discovery of antibiotics is considered one of the most crucial breakthroughs in medicine and veterinary science in the 20th century. From the very beginning, this type of drug was used as a ‘miraculous cure’ for every type of infection. In addition to their therapeutic uses, antibiotics were also used for disease prevention and growth promotion in livestock. Though this application was banned in the European Union in 2006, antibiotics are still used in this way in countries all over the world. The unlimited and unregulated use of antibiotics has increased the speed of antibiotic resistance’s spread in different types of organisms. This phenomenon requires searching for new strategies to deal with hard-to-treat infections. The antimicrobial activity of some plant derivatives and animal products has been known since ancient times. At the beginning of this century, even more substances, such as antimicrobial peptides, were considered very promising candidates for becoming new alternatives to commonly used antimicrobials. However, many preclinical and clinical trials ended without positive results. A variety of strategies to fight microbes exist, but we are a long way from approving them as therapies. This review begins with the discovery of antibiotics, covers the modes of action of select antimicrobials, and ends with a literature review of the newest potential alternative approaches to overcoming the drug resistance phenomenon.
Effects of Melatonin on Cadmium Accumulation and Haematological Parameters in Cadmium Intoxicated Prussian Carp (Carassius gibelio B.)
Authors: Drąg-Kozak Ewa , Łuszczek-Trojnar Ewa , Socha Magdalena , Bojarski Bartosz
Published: November 2020

The present study was performed to determine the effect of melatonin on cadmium accumulation and haematological parameters changes in females of Prussian carp (Carassius gibelio B.). The fish were exposed to a sublethal concentration of cadmium (0.4 and 4.0 mg/L) without or with melatonin implant (containing 18 mg melatonin hormone) for 1, 4, 7, 10 and 13 weeks. After the 7th week, Cd-exposed fish were divided into two groups. The first group of fish were subjected to depuration in clear water, while the second group remained exposed to the same concentrations of cadmium. After the 10th and 13th weeks of exposure the kidney, spleen, heart and blood were taken in order to determine the cadmium concentration and to analyse haematological parameters. The results of this study showed an increase in the concentration of cadmium in the tissues and blood in fish exposed to the highest dose (4.0 mg/L) of cadmium in water with a dependence on the exposure duration. Additionally, it was shown that melatonin administration reduced the cadmium concentration in the tissues and blood, and melatonin had a protective effect against cadmium accumulation. Moreover, the results showed a significant increase in blood parameters (RBC, Ht and Hb) in fish treated with the highest dose of cadmium. However, implantation of melatonin in cadmium-treated fish resulted in marked improvements in haematological parameters. Thus, melatonin can be a good implementation to alleviate, at least partially, the toxicity of cadmium.
Route selection, migration speed, and mortality of silver eel passing through two small hydroelectric facilities
Authors: Dębowski Piotr , Bernaś Rafał , Skóra Michał , Morzuch Jacek
Published: November 2020

The European eel is a highly threatened species according the European Inland Fisheries Advisory Commission (EIFAC) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The recruitment of this species has collapsed over the last fifty years primarily because of the destruction of free migration routes and overfishing. One of the most important factors linked to population decline is mortality during catadromous migration caused by hydroelectric facilities. The aim of the present study was to assess the mortality rate of silvers eel passing through two small hydroelectric facilities. Total mortality at the site was 5%, but it was 15% for fish passing through the two hydroelectric facilities. However, the cumulative mortality in the river basin studied, which has many hydroelectric facilities, indicated that silver eel escapement from the Słupia drainage basin was very low.
Histoanatomy and surface ultrastructure of the olfactory organ of the freshwater tank goby, Glossogobius giuris (Hamilton, 1822)
Authors: Ghosh Saroj Kumar
Published: November 2020

Characteristic features of histology and fine morphology of the olfactory organ in the tank goby, Glossogobius giuris (Perciformes, Gobiidae, Gobiinae), were investigated with light and scanning electron microscopy. The olfactory cavity contained single lamellae that were exposed to the aquatic environment by small anterior and posterior nostrils. Typical olfactory rosettes were not observed. Histologically, each lamella consisted of two layers of epithelium; wrapping the central core that was composed of connective tissue stroma with nerve fibers and blood capillaries. The mucosal lining of lamella was merged with sensory and non-sensory olfactory cells, identified on the basis of structural characters, surface specializations, and staining features. The principal sensory elements were ciliated receptor cells that were characterized by apical dendritic processes expanded from cell soma and microvillous receptor cells equipped with multiple tiny dendrons on the mucosal surface. The bead-like appearance of several labyrinth cells, mucous cells with secreted mucin, scattered lymphatic cells, stratified epithelial cells bearing microfolds, and condensed ciliated supporting cells were observed in the non-sensory epithelia. Undifferentiated basal cells were embedded in the deeper zone of the epithelium above the basement membrane. The cellular organization of the olfactory lining was interpreted with chemoreception of the fish concerned.
Feeding habits of oriental sole (Brachirus orientalis) on the Bushehr coast of the Persian Gulf
Authors: Alghada Dima , Keivany Yazdan , Paykan-Heyrati Fatemeh
Published: November 2020

The feeding habits of oriental sole, Brachirus orientalis (Bloch & Schneider) were investigated using 300 male and female specimens collected from coastal waters of Bushehr Province (Persian Gulf) between June 2015 and July 2016. The total length of females and males ranged from 16.2 to 38.5 cm and 14.1 to 29.1 cm, respectively. Of the total number of stomachs examined, 225 were empty (vacuity index = 77%). This index varied significantly over the year (P < 0.05), with maximum values in April and September and minimum in October and May. The B. orientalis diet was composed of nine prey species belonging to five classes. The most important prey items were Crustacea and Mollusca (Bivalvia and Gastropoda). Diet composition showed little seasonal variation, and Crustacea, Bivalvia, and Gastropoda were the most important prey items in all seasons. Sex did not appear to have any significant effects on dietary composition, and the main prey items were consumed by both males and females (P > 0.05).
Successful Extensive Multiorgan Resection of Malignant Duodenal Tumor: A Case Report
Authors: Spiridonova Ilva , Sīviņš Armands
Published: November 2020

Duodenal adenocarcinoma is one of the rarest tumours of all gastrointestinal malignancies. Due to rarity and late symptoms, duodenal cancers are diagnosed in late stage, but overall survival rate is high. We present a case of locally advanced duodenal adenocarcinoma with successful surgical treatment including multiorgan resection.
Thrips (Thysanoptera) associated with onion (Allium cepa L.) and Welsh onion (Allium fistulosum L.)
Authors: Olczyk Marta , Pobożniak Maria
Published: November 2020

We determined the abundance, species composition, sex ratio and seasonal dynamics of thrips on one cultivar of Welsh onion (Allium fistulosum) and eight cultivars of onion (Allium cepa) in South Poland within three vegetation seasons (2014–2016). Nine species of Thysanoptera were identified on A. cepa and A. fistulosum. Irrespective of the onion cultivar, Thrips tabaci was the dominant species (64.4% of all collected thrips specimens), while Frankliniella intonsa also occurred in high numbers (28.3%). Conversely, Welsh onion was most often inhabited by F. intonsa (62.7%), although T. tabaci was also numerous (28.3%). The predatory Aeolothrips intermedius accounted for 4.5% on A. cepa and 2.9% on A. fistulosum. In the most numerous species, T. tabaci, F. intonsa and A. intermedius populations were formed mainly by females. The cultivar most colonised by thrips was Kroll of A. fistulosum. The tested cultivars of A. cepa demonstrated varying degrees of attractiveness to thrips in the subsequent years. The relationship between populations of T. tabaci, F. intonsa and A. intermedius changed in the subsequent months of the growing season. In June, mainly T. tabaci and F. intonsa occurred on onion plants, while from July, the percentage shares of F. intonsa and the predatory A. intermedius in the thrips population on many onion cultivars increased. The level of attractiveness of A. cepa related to onion thrips, which is reported as a main pest of onion, varies depending on the year and cultivar.
Efficacy of Miltefosine and Artemether on infected Biomphalaria alexandrina snails with Schistosoma mansoni: immunological and histological studies
Authors: Abdel-Azeem H. H. , Osman G. Y. , El Garhy M. F. , Al Benasy K. S.
Published: November 2020

Biomphalaria alexandrina snails have received much attention due to their great medical importance as vectors for transmitting Schistosoma mansoni infection to humans. The main objective of the present work was to assess the efficacy of miltefosin a synthetic molluscicidal drug and artemether a natural molluscicidal drug. The correlation between immunological and histological observations from light and electron microscopy of the hemocytes of B. alexandrina post treatment with both drugs was also evaluated. LC50 and LC90 values were represented by 13.80 ppm and 24.40 ppm for miltefosine and 16.88 ppm and 27.97 ppm for artemether, respectively. The results showed that the treatment of S. mansoni-infected snails and normal snails with sublethal dose of miltefosine (LC25=8.20 ppm) and artemether (LC25=11.04 ppm) induced morphological abnormalities and a significant reduction in hemocytes count.
Experimental infection with Baylisascaris potosis in chickens
Authors: Taira K. , Ueda M. , Ooi H. K.
Published: November 2020

The larvae of the genus Baylisascaris can cause larva migrans in mammals and birds. This study investigated the larval migration of Baylisascaris potosis, the roundworm of kinkajou (Potos flavus), in chickens and the associated clinical manifestations of the host. Thirty-six 3-week-old chickens divided into 6 groups were orally inoculated with 3,000 B. potosis eggs/chick. Each group of chicken was necropsied at days 1, 2, 3, 7, 30 and 90 PI (post inoculation), and the number of larvae in various organs were counted until day 90 PI. No clinical signs were observed in chickens during the study. Larvae were detected from the liver, lungs or breast-muscles of 13/36 (36.1%) chickens. The mean total number of larvae in the liver, lungs and breast-muscles at days 1, 2, 3, 7, 30 and 90 PI were 0.34, 0.17, 1.66, 1.01, 0.17 and 0, respectively. No larvae were found in the brain, eyes, hid-limb muscles, heart, kidneys and spleen. Although infectivity of larvae in egg-inoculated chickens was low, the present study demonstrated that B. potosis larvae can migrate in chickens tissues up to day 30 PI. The result suggests that chickens can serve as a paratenic host for B. potosis and may underline a public health importance of B. potosis infection as a potential foodborne disease in humans.
The Association between Researchers’ Conceptions of Research and Their Strategic Research Agendas
Authors: Santos João M. , Horta Hugo
Published: November 2020

Purpose

In studies of the research process, the association between how researchers conceptualize research and their strategic research agendas has been largely overlooked. This study aims to address this gap.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzes this relationship using a dataset of more than 8,500 researchers across all scientific fields and the globe. It studies the associations between the dimensions of two inventories: the Conceptions of Research Inventory (CoRI) and the Multi-Dimensional Research Agenda Inventory—Revised (MDRAI-R).

Findings

The findings show a relatively strong association between researchers’ conceptions of research and their research agendas. While all conceptions of research are positively related to scientific ambition, the findings are mixed regarding how the dimensions of the two inventories relate to one another, which is significant for those seeking to understand the knowledge production process better.

Research limitations

The study relies on self-reported data, which always carries a risk of response bias.

Practical implications

The findings provide a greater understanding of the inner workings of knowledge processes and indicate that the two inventories, whether used individually or in combination, may provide complementary analytical perspectives to research performance indicators. They may thus offer important insights for managers of research environments regarding how to assess the research culture, beliefs, and conceptualizations of individual researchers and research teams when designing strategies to promote specific institutional research focuses and strategies.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to associate research agendas and conceptions of research. It is based on a large sample of researchers working worldwide and in all fields of knowledge, which ensures that the findings have a reasonable degree of generalizability to the global population of researchers.
Changes in the Secondary Landscape Structure in Hruby Jesenik Mountains (Czech Republic)
Authors: Dostal Adam , Machar Ivo , Mackovcin Peter
Published: November 2020

This study deals with the analysis of changes in the secondary landscape structure of the territory of the Jeseniky Mountains (Czech Republic) monitored in the years 1946, 1953, 1962, 2000, and 2016. The study analysed georeferencing aerial geodetic images in the QGIS 2.18 program. On the basis of the land use classification key that was created, historical changes were identified in the following categories of land use; forest, arable land, orchards, water surfaces, wild life refuges and scattered greenery, river networks, permanent grass stands, meadows and pastures, gardens and built-up areas, courtyards and hard surfaces. The surface areas of land use categories were utilized for the calculation of change indicators regarding the structure of the landscape (landscape similarity index, coefficient of ecological stability, and change index). The maps for land use created for individual historical periods functioned as the starting point for a comprehensive assessment of the landscape by means of a SWOT analysis, which created the basis for a proposal for permanently sustainable utilization of the landscape in the area that was monitored. The study results indicate that the analysis of the historical development of the secondary landscape structure may be utilized as a decision support tool when planning sustainable landscape management.
Examining Organic Acid Root Exudate Content and Function for Leafy Vegetables Under Water-Stressed Conditions
Authors: Kasukawa Naho , Miyazawa Kae
Published: November 2020

At the plants’ exposal to abiotic stress, organic acids, including citric acid, are exuded through their roots. Previous studies have suggested that the exogenous application of citric acid increases antioxidant activity within the plant. Thus, we postulated that organic acids released into the surroundings during times of environmental stress may function as signaling molecules to increase antioxidant enzyme activity. To gain further insight into this phenomenon, we identified individual organic acids exuded from the roots of leafy vegetables under drought stress. We then analyzed enzyme activity and the root/shoot lengths of seedlings after treatment with the types of organic acids found to be exuded from the studied leafy vegetables, including acetic, citric, lactic, and tartaric acids. There was a significant increase in catalase and ascorbate peroxidase enzyme activity in Napa cabbage (Brassica rapa var. pekinensis) after exogenous citric acid application. Root lengths of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) and Napa cabbage seedlings were significantly longer in citric and lactic acids pretreated seedlings compared to those of the control. The above results support the conclusion that exogenous application of citric acid alleviates drought stress. However, there is insufficient evidence to prove that organic acids act as signaling molecules to prime neighboring plants for upcoming stress.
The Impact of the State of Emergency on the Supply of Services and Passenger Demand for Public Transport
Authors: Konečný Vladimír , Brídziková Mária
Published: November 2020

The paper deals with the research of the demand and supply of public passenger transport services in the state of emergency caused by the COVID-19 disease. The extraordinary situation has been affecting the behaviour and decision-making of passengers and their demand for public transport not only in the Slovak Republic but globally. The situation has caused a significant decline in passenger transport as well as changes in the structure of passengers who still use the public transport system. Several operators have responded to declining demand by reducing the transport services supply, to reduce operating costs. The declining demand is reflected in a decrease in transport revenues and an increase in the demonstrable loss of operators providing public passenger transport services.
Subsolidus solution and ionic conductivity of rock-salt structured Li3+5xTa1−xO4 electroceramics
Authors: Shari S. , Tan K.B. , Khaw C.C. , Zainal Z. , Lee O.J. , Chen S.K.
Published: November 2020

Lithium tantalate solid solution, Li3+5xTa1−xO4 was prepared by conventional solid-state reaction at 925 °C for 48 h. The XRD analysis confirmed that these materials crystallized in a monoclinic symmetry, space group C2/C and Z = 8, which was similar to the reported International Crystal Database (ICDD), No. 98-006-7675. The host structure, β-Li3TaO4 had a rock-salt structure with a cationic order of Li+:Ta5+ = 3:1 over the octahedral sites. A rather narrow subsolidus solution range, i.e. Li3+5xTa1−xO4 (0 ⩽ x ⩽ 0.059) was determined and the formation mechanism was proposed as a replacement of Ta5+ by excessive Li+, i.e. Ta5+ ↔ 5Li+. Both Scherrer and Williamson-Hall (W-H) methods indicated the average crystallite sizes in the range of 31 nm to 51 nm. Two secondary phases, Li4TaO4:5 and LiTaO3 were observed at x = 0.070 and x = −0:013, respectively. These materials were moderate lithium ionic conductors with the highest conductivity of ~2.5 × 10−3 Ω −1 ˙ cm−1 at x = 0, at 0 °C and 850 °C; the activation energies were found in the range of 0.63 eV to 0.68 eV.
Comparison of electrical properties of CuO/n-Si contacts with Cu/n-Si
Authors: Özmenteş Reşit , Temirci Cabir
Published: November 2020

In this study, CuO/n-Si/Al heterojunction contacts were fabricated by thermal evaporation technique. Electrical characteristics of the samples were investigated with the current-voltage (I-V), capacitance-voltage/frequency (C-V/f), and conductancevoltage (G/V) measurements at room temperature. Also, Cu/n-Si/Al Schottky contact was produced as a reference sample to investigate the electrical properties of the samples. The values of ideality factor (n), barrier height ( Φb) and series resistance (Rs) of the samples were calculated from the forward bias current-voltage (I-V) and reverse bias capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristics. Also, for checking the consistency of the results, Cheung and Norde functions were used. The experimental result values of CuO/n-Si contact were compared with the values of the reference Cu/n-Si Schottky diode. It was observed that the values of the ideality factor and barrier height of the CuO/n-Si heterojunction were higher than those of the Cu/n-Si Schottky contact, while the series resistance was lower. Also, it has been observed that the value of capacitance decreased with increasing frequency and after a certain value of frequency it was almost constant. The ideality factor of CuO/n-Si/Al heterostructure is about 2.40 and so, it is not close to the ideal behavior.
Migrant and Non-Migrant Origin Pre-Service Teachers’ Beliefs about Multilingualism and Teaching in Multilingual Classrooms: Convergences and Divergences
Authors: Llompart Júlia , Birello Marilisa
Published: November 2020

This article reports findings from an investigation into migrant and non-migrant origin pre-service teachers’ beliefs about multilingualism and the relationship between their linguistic trajectories as students and how they perceive themselves as future teachers. We analize the beliefs of around seventy pre-service teachers taking part in a university course, collected through an individual reflection tool based on a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) and a group discussion in which students had to discuss their ideas and create a collective document. In this article we focus on the discourse of four pre-service teachers, two of whom had migration backgrounds and two of whom who did not. Findings suggest that pre-service teachers’ life and learning experiences contribute to different emotions and feeling about language and teaching in a multilingual setting. They also influence the perception the pre-service teachers have of themselves as future teachers. Pre-service teachers regard the preparation received at the university negatively and express insecurities. Findings illustrate that migrant origin pre-service teachers feel more prepared in the sense they believe that their migration experience can help to understand newcoming students and be empathic with them.
Lithuanian and French Sounds: Comparative Analysis of Articulatory Features
Authors: Boizou Loïc , Kazlauskienė Asta
Published: November 2020

The aim of this article is to analyze the differences between Lithuanian and French sounds and to provide a general outlook of the Lithuanian articulatory phonetics mainly intended for French speakers. Such a comparative analysis is relevant because (a) there is no consistent equivalent between written and spoken language, even in Lithuanian, which has a relatively young written language, (b) the international phonetic alphabet does not always accurately reflect differences in pronunciation, (c) the contrastive perspective helps learners to focus on differences that could be unnoticed. Besides the articulatory aspects, the orthographic issues where the spoken form cannot be directly deduced from the written form by a simple relation from grapheme to sound but depends on the graphemic context (mainly related to some assimilation processes) are given a special attention. The questions that remain controversial between Lithuanian phoneticians (such as the retroflex status of the phonetic counterparts of <š> and <ž>) are also mentioned. The comparative analysis shows that the two systems exhibit significant differences: most sounds are not shared. Nevertheless, differences are often slight, so that it is more an issue of orthoepics. Attention should be paid to the differences in the duration and qualitative characteristics of long and short vowels and the relation of graphemes  to sounds. From the point of view of consonants, [], [r, rj], [x, ] are problematic, their pronunciation must be learned separately. The pronunciation of palatalized consonants as simple consonants, and not as clusters with [j] as the second element, is also challenging for French speakers.
Networking for sustainable supplier development; evidence from a Finnish industrial cluster
Authors: Kauppila Osmo , Jounila Henri , Reiman Arto
Published: November 2020

This article examines a network approach to sustainably developing suppliers in the context of a Finnish industrial cluster. The approach (HSEQ AP) aims to assess and develop the health, safety, environmental and quality-related capabilities of the suppliers of the buying companies that form the cluster. In this study, the impact of this approach, which has been operating for more than a decade, is examined through a mixed-methods approach. Suppliers that have been audited two times or more (n = 29) were quantitatively analyzed in terms of safety performance, consecutive assessment scores and the relationship between assessment scores and financial indicators. To support the quantitative analyses, interviews were conducted with buyers and suppliers. The results suggest that the HSEQ AP can be linked to improvement in operational results and to enhancing social sustainability in the supply network, and that the suppliers and buyers generally find it a worthy investment. The antecedents for this network approach are partially similar to supplier development in general: Buyer demonstration of commitment, particularly through purchasing processes, is crucial and not fully realized in all cases. The use of a competent, trained third-party assessor was seen to bring value, and the suppliers also rated buyer participation very highly. Interestingly, no significant improvement was found regarding environmental capabilities. The HSEQ AP can be viewed as a CSR practice, but the results show there could be further potential to unlock.
Occupational exposure to noise in the extractive industry and earthworks – a systematic review protocol
Authors: Duarte J. , Castelo Branco Jacqueline , Santos Baptista J.
Published: November 2020

Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) is one of the most recognised occupational diseases globally. Mining and earthworks are among those with the greatest impact in this matter. A systematic review addressing the noise exposure characterisation, in order to develop a preventive design, is being proposed in this protocol. The Preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines were used to draw the research outline, where the study and report characteristics are provided. All of the selected keywords and databases/journals were priorly identified and are now presented. The search methodology is clarified, and an example for Scopus is provided. A methodology to deal with bias within studies is proposed, and all the systematic review narrative processes of the systematic review are discussed in the protocol, including information that will be extracted from the selected records. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis guidelines will be used to help develop the review.
Monetization of big data technology: Information costs modeling
Authors: Karpychev V.Yu. , Shal'nova Yu.P.
Published: November 2020

Subject. The article addresses information costs associated with the creation and use of big data technology.
Objectives. We focus on specification and analysis of information costs as a parameter that determines the possibility to monetize big data technology; identify the main sources, the nature and factors impacting these costs; develop approaches to assessing and reducing them.
Methods. The study employs methods of systems approach, classification, functional modeling, functional cost analysis.
Results. We propose a conceptual functional model of big data technology. Using the model, we explore the structure, content and nature of investment costs involved in creation and implementation of big data technology, as well as operating costs at the data preprocessing stage. The paper shows the transactional nature of information costs of big data technology, points out the need for cost minimization to monetize the technology, offers a methodology for assessing the information costs, which integrates modern methods for business process investigation.
Conclusions. Prospects for monetization and extensive use of big data technology in economic activities are determined by the possibility of reducing the information costs inherent in the technology. To overcome existing difficulties, special scientific studies in the field of technology and economics are needed.
Analyzing the impact of payments infrastructure on the efficiency of the national payment system functioning
Authors: Varvus S.A. , Buevich A.P.
Published: November 2020

Subject. We consider the status, problems, trends and prospects for the development of the national payment system of the Russian Federation. Objectives. We focus on disclosing the content and problems of the modern stage of operation of the national payment system of the Russian Federation, and the analysis of its possible prospects for development. Methods. The study employs the institutional and systems approach to scientific knowledge. On its basis, we apply the situational, factor, statistical and other methods of analysis. Results. The existing national payment system is a complex and not quite independent entity. It is demonstrated by the practice of numerous legislative and regulatory supporting mechanisms that need not only the perception and assimilation of international experience, but also the establishment of proper in-house practice. Regions of the country have significant differences in the quality of payment services provided. Conclusions. To solve the problems of prospective development of the national payment system of the Russian Federation, it is necessary to increase its centralization, create a mobile universal and internally consistent and receptive to innovation legal mechanism of functioning. The revival and growth of the country's economy, stimulating the demand and supply of payment services, will facilitate the solutions. Further development of the system depends on the increase in the scale of operation, alignment of regional and corporate levels of service for individuals and business entities, qualitative improvement, taking into account the international standards and the best foreign practices.
Improving the performance of corporate leaders: Theoretical and practical consideration
Authors: Khomenko Ya.V.
Published: November 2020

Subject. The article evaluates the performance of corporate leaders in today's economy.
Objectives. I unfold principles for evaluating the performance of a business leader, and review the substance of corporate governance and distinctions in managerial approaches that exist in a transportation company.
Methods. The study relies upon the process-based and systems approaches, economic and mathematical methods, statistical methods for data processing and comparative analysis.
Results. I analyzed types of corporate governance and notes that the entity should primarily ensure a growth in the productivity and financial result (profit). Therefore, as for the substance of corporate leader's performance, it seems to ensure the relationship of all management elements. Hence, I review a closed chain of the business leader's governance ensuring the working process and comprising five phases. The article outlines an algorithm for evaluating the performance of managers, illustrating the case of a transportation company. Based on available theoretical data, I determine that the microanalysis seems to be an option to improve the performance of corporate leaders, since it detects challenges at the initial phase, examines the management process and finds methods to eliminate any issues. I analyze how the organizational culture is examined, and conclude that the organizational culture in the transportation company is developing, thus ensuring the effective performance of the company.
Conclusions. The substance of management translates into its functions and tasks shaping the specifics of the working process. A corporate leader deals with a big deal of functions, managing the staff, establishing the cooperation between corporate departments, collecting and processing the information for tasks they have to handle. The microanalysis and the implementation of the corporate governance mainly serve for raising the performance of corporate leaders. The findings can prove useful to various entities.
Analisis Deformasi dan Tegangan Pada Bascule Bridge Akibat Pengaruh Sudut Angkat Jembatan
Authors: Dahniel Dahniel , Supartono F.X.
Published: November 2020

Bumi sedang menghadapi masalah pemanasan global yang besar sehingga membuat es di kutub mencair dan menambah tinggi muka air, juga mengurangi luas daratan. Dalam mengatasi masalah tersebut dibutuhkan suatu akses yang menghubungkan transportasi darat dan juga transportasi laut, jembatan bergerak merupakan solusi untuk mengatasi masalah tersebut. Jembatan bergerak memiliki banyak jenis, salah satunya adalah jembatan bascule, jembatan bascule adalah jembatan bergerak yang bergerak arah vertikal dan horizontal untuk memberikan akses kendaraan laut dan darat. Jembatan bascule ini menggunakan rangka batang yang biasanya digunakan untuk jalur kereta api, tetapi jembatan kali ini untuk jalur kendaraan beroda. Model Jembatan bascule dibuat dengan menggunakan program Midas Civil menggunakan wizard rangka batang yang bergerak vertikal dengan sudut 0º, 30º, 45º, 60º. Hasil dari analisis menggunakan program Midas Civil menunjukkan bahwa untuk jalur kendaraan beroda, jembatan bascule tipe rangka batang bisa digunakan dengan ketentuan seperti dalam penelitian ini dengan menahan tegangan dan defleksi akibat beban mati dan beban hidup.  Kata kunci: Jembatan Bascule, Rangka Batang, Tegangan, Defleksi, Midas Civil.   The earth is facing a big problem of global warming that makes the polar ice melt and increase the water level, also reduce the land area. In overcoming this problem, we need an access that connects land transportation and also sea transportation, moving bridges are a solution to overcome these problems. Moving bridges have many types, one of which is the bascule bridge, the bascule bridge is a moving bridge that moves vertically and horizontallyto provide access to sea and land vehicles. This bascule bridge uses truss which is usually used for railroad lines, but this time the bridge is for wheeled vehicles. The bascule bridge model was created using the Midas Civil program using steel wand truss that moves vertically with angles of 0º, 30º, 45º, 60º. The results of the analysis using the Midas Civil program show that for wheeled vehicle lines, the truss type bascule bridge can be used with the provisions as in this study by holding stress and deflection due to dead load and live load. Keywords: Bascule Brdege, Truss, Stress, Deflection, Midas Civil.
PENGARUH ELECTRONIC ROAD PRICING TERHADAP KONDISI LALU LINTAS RUAS JALAN KUNINGAN
Authors: Nathaniel Fernando , Najid Najid
Published: November 2020

Electronic road pricing is a prepaid road which is used to decrease the traffic volume with using Electronic road pricing gate on the road that applied ERP and using In-Vehicle Unit device. The high number of vehicle volume at jakarta become one of the main reason of applying electronic road pricing. On this study will be discussed about the condition of Kuningan road traffic situation, this road is a main access for people especially to work and shopping. to analyze the vehicle volume will be using direct observation method to got the volume, velocity and intensiveness of the traffic. direct observation will be used to watch vehicle such as motorcycle, light vehicle and weight vehicle. with observation data we will get graphic about the connectivity between velocity and intensiveness that will be modified with questionnaire. questionnaire data will be spreaded out to get the percentage of decreased volume and estimated price for electronic road pricing. This study is expected to learn the electronic road pricing with most efficient price to decreased the vehicle volume at Kuningan road. ABSTRAKElectronic Road Pricing adalah jalan berbayar yang digunakan untuk mengurangi kemacetan lalu lintas dengan cara memasangkan gate Electronic Road Pricing pada jalan yang akan dikenai ERP dan memasang In-Vehicle Unit. Tingginya volume kendaraan di Jakarta menjadi alasan utama diterapkan Electronic Road Pricing. Pada penelitian ini, dibahas mengenai kondisi lalu lintas jalan Kuningan, ruas jalan ini merupakan akses pengguna jalan untuk menuju perkantoran dan tempat perbelanjaan. Untuk menganalisa volume kendaraan akan digunakan metode observasi langsung untuk mendapatkan volume, kecepatan dan kepadatan lalu lintas. Observasi langsung dilakukan dengan memperhatikan kendaraan bermotor roda dua, kendaraan ringan dan kendaraan berat. Dengan data observasi akan didapat grafik hubungan antara kecepatan dan kedapatan yang akan dimodifikasi dengan data kuesioner. Data kuesioner disebar untuk mendapatkan persentase penurunan volume dan perkiraan harga Electronic Road Pricing untuk mengurangi volume lalu lintas. Diharapkan pada analisis penelitian ini dapat mengetahui biaya Electronic Road Pricing yang paling efisien untuk mengurangi volume kendaraan pada ruas jalan Kuningan.
Electrochemical Deposition of Hydroxyapatite Co-Substituted By Sr/Mg Coating on Ti-6Al-4V ELI Dental Alloy Post-MAO as Anti-Corrosion
Authors: AlMashhadani Haider Abdulkareem , Saleh Khulood Abed
Published: November 2020

This work involved the co-substitution of the two bioactive ions of strontium and magnesium into the hydroxyapatite (HA) coating which was then electrochemically deposited on Ti-6Al-4V ELI dental alloy (Gr.23) before and after treatment by Micro Arc Oxidation (MAO). The deposited layers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The adhesion strength of the coating layer was estimated by using pull-off adhesion test. The adhesion strength of Sr/Mg-HA on the Ti-6Al-4V ELI dental alloy after MAO treatment was 1.79 MPa, which was higher than that before MAO treatment (1.62 MPa). The corrosion behavior of the alloy in artificial saliva environment at temperature ranged 293-323K was assessed by means of electrochemical techniques and potentiodynamic polarization curves. The corrosion protection to the alloy at 293K was increased from 67.98% before treatment by MAO to 75.87% after treatment. The antimicrobial properties of the coated alloy were evaluated against different bacteria and oral fungi (Candida).
Water Quality Index of Euphrates River Near Al- Musayyab Power Plant
Authors: Makki Ikhlas M. , Manii Jwad K.
Published: November 2020

This research deals with analyzing samples of water from the Euphrates River before and after (50m, 200m, 500m, and 1000m from the outflow)the power plant of AL-Musayyab. A Water Quality Index (WQI) analysis was performed, which is a helpful tool for rapid estimation of the quality of any water resource.. Water quality of  the river was classified into good, poor, very poor, and unsuitable for drinking, based on physico-chemical parameters such as pH, total hardness (TH), and concentrations of the major ions of calcium (Ca+2), sodium (Na+), magnesium (Mg+2), potassium (K+), nitrate (NO3-2), sulphate (SO4-2), phosphate (PO4-2), and Chloride (Cl-), which indicate the extent of pollution. The study shows the deterioration of water quality, with the main candidate causes of being the direct discharge of the power plant into the river and high anthropogenic activities.
Descolonizar la naturaleza: preguntas, tensiones, contradicciones y utopías
Authors: Cornejo Puschner Sascha Miguel
Published: November 2020

Partiendo de la premisa de un proceso actual de politización de la naturaleza, este artículo pretende investigar la compleja articulación entre discursos basados en imaginarios de lo indígena, la naturaleza y la modernidad. El texto desarrolla las tensiones inherentes de la apropiación discursiva de un imaginario de los derechos de la naturaleza como campo político, simbólico y utópico. La línea de desarrollo de este artículo, va desde la problematización de la naturaleza como sujeto legal;  la critica al concepto de naturaleza desde la inteligencia filosófica del norte global (abordado desde una perspectiva post-colonial); y la relación aporética del tiempo-espacio constitutivo de la modernidad, en vista a restablecer el lugar de una utopía basada en la defensa del territorio y la naturaleza.
Tandem reaction for the synthesis of bicyclic ortho-aminocarbonitrile derivatives using DMAPA as a cheap and efficient catalyst
Authors:   Weihai Ocean Vocational College, Weihai 264300, China, Wu Lisha , Yan Shiqiang ,   Shandong Dyne Marine Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Weihai 264300, China & College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China, Li Yinta ,   Weihai Ocean Vocational College, Weihai 264300, China
Published: November 2020

To develop a new method for the synthesis of bicyclic ortho-aminocarbonitrile derivatives. Reaction of aromatic aldehydes, cycloketones and malononitrile with catalytic amount of 3-(dimethylamino)- 1-propylamine (DMAPA) in ethanol via Knoevenagel-Michael cascades. The bicyclic ortho-aminocarbonitrile derivatives were obtained with good to excellent yields along with short reaction times. The universality, excellent yields, mild reaction and easy collection through simple filtration indicate the preparation of orthoaminocarbonitriles derivatives is an efficient and suitable protocol, which use one-pot multicomponent reaction of aromatic aldehyde, cycloketone, and 2 equiv. of malononitrile under the catalytic amount of DMAPA in ethanol.