bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Feature Descriptor for Face Anti-Spoofing Using Texture Based Method
Authors: Raghavendra R. J. , Kunte R. Sanjeev
Published: October 2020

In this paper we propose a novel approach for face anti-spoofing called Extended Division Directional Ternary Co-relation Pattern (EDDTCP). The EDDTCP encodes co-relation of ternary edges based on the centre pixel gray values with its immediate directional neighbour and its next immediate average directional neighbour, which is calculated by using the average of cornered neighbours with directional neighbours. The proposed method is robust against presentation attacks by extracting the spatial information in all directions. Three Experiments were performed by using all the four texture descriptors (LBP, LTP, LGS and EDDTCP) and the results are compared. The proposed face anti-spoofing method performs better than LBP, LTP and LGS.
Managerial accounting in the implementation of deliverology using the example of Ukraine
Authors: Buriachenko Andrii Y. , Zhyber Tetiana V. , Paientko Tetiana
Published: October 2020

The article is devoted towards the application of managerial accounting for deliverology development at the local government level in countries and comparing them to the stage of fiscal decentralisation implementation in Ukraine. The aim of the article is to show how the application of the managerial accounting approach in the public sector can contribute to the introduction of deliverology at the local level using Ukraine as an example. The methodology is based on the application of Difference in Difference method for the implementation of deliverology at the local government level. It has been proved that the use of multi-criteria decision-making methods in the analysis of the performance of budget programmes at the local level will contribute to the improvement of public services delivery. The main contribution of this study is to provide the basis for developing recommendations for the use of a single or uniform standard of electronic databases on regional development indicators and local budgets. This will help to ensure operational control over deviations of actual indicators from planned ones, as well as identify regions where local authorities are using resources inefficiently.
Effects of histamine and sodium hypochlorite on prooxidand state in the rats erytrocytes
Authors: Harasym Nataliya , Mandzynets Svitlana , Sanahursky Dmytro
Published: October 2020

We studied the simultaneous influence of histamine and sodium hypochlorite (SH) on lipid peroxidation processes, as well as the level of structural changes in membranes (via the content of sialic acid) in rat erythrocytes. We established that histamine affects lipid peroxidation processes with the formation of lipid hydroperoxides, damages proteins and reduces the content of sialic acids, which leads to changes in the surface charge of red blood cells. However, the simultaneous action of histamine and low SH concentration has a positive effect in that it corrects the pro-oxidant state of erythrocytes. Hence, the content of lipid hydroperoxides, TBA-active products, carbonyl groups of proteins and sialic acids were mainly reduced after the simultaneous action of histamine and SH at all studied concentrations during the rehabilitation period.
Comparative analysis of the nerve transfer methodologies used during surgical treatment of peripheral facial paresis
Authors: Tsymbaliuk Iaroslav , Medvediev Volodymyr , Tsymbaliuk Vitalii , Tretyak Igor , Gatskiy Oleksandr , Tatarchuk Mykhailo , Draguntsova Nataliya
Published: October 2020

Introduction. When considering the array of biomedical problems associated with facial nerve palsy (FNP), it is apparent that the problem of choosing an effective type of facial nerve transfer is of paramount relevance. Hence, it is to the pursuit of a solution to the above stated problem that our study is devoted.

Materials and methods. We analyzed the data obtained as a result of assessing the outcome of 149 patients with trauma-caused FNP who had undergone surgical treatments in the period between 2001-2018. The FN nerve transfer techniques utilized were as such: for group 1 – the use as a donor nerve the branch of the accessory nerve innervating the sternocleidomastoid muscle (n=87); group 2 – the descending branch of the hypoglossal and the branch of the accessory nerve (n=62).

Results. In groups 1–2, the FN nerve transfer significantly improved FN function (p <0.01; Wilcoxon Matched Pairs Test), and most patients (n=135; 90.6%) noted an improvement in the clinical status up to degree II-III on the House-Brackmann scale (good result).

Conclusion. The use of the accessory nerve branches to the sternocleidomastoid muscle, as donated, ensures restoration of FN function to levels II-III on the House-Brackmann scale in 89.7% of all operated patients, and the results it achieves do not differ from those of the technically more complex nerve transfer of FN by descending branch of the hypoglossal nerve with combination of branches of the accessory nerve.
Bromelain-based chemo-herbal combination effect on human cancer cells: in-vitro study on AGS and MCF7 proliferation and apoptosis
Authors: Raeisi Elham , Aazami Mathias Hossain , Aghamiri Seyed Mahmud Reza , Satari Atefeh , Hosseinzadeh Safoura , Lemoigne Yves , Heidarian Esfandiar
Published: October 2020

Aim. Chemo-herbal combinations promise new clinical anticancer therapeutic modalities. The current study investigated and compared the in vitro effects of a bromelain-based chemo-herbal combination to/with cisplatin or 5-FU, with regard to the proliferation and apoptosis of human gastric AGS and breast MCF7 cell lines.

Material and methods. AGS and MCF7 cells were either treated with different concentrations of bromelain, cisplatin or 5-FU; or with bromelain-cisplatin and bromelain-5-FU combinations for 48h. Cell proliferative inhibition and inductive apoptosis were appraised using MTT assay and flowcytometry, respectively. Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn’s tests were used to analyze differences in cell groups’ means.

Results. AGS proliferation was adversely affected by single treatments of bromelain and cisplatin (p <0.003) or 5-FU (p <0.05). The anti-proliferative impact of single treatments was more pronounced on MCF7 cells. The bromelain-cisplatin combinations displayed synergistic effect on MCF7 cells (CIs ≤1), while being additive or antagonistic with cisplatin IC30 and IC40 to AGS cell proliferation, respectively. In addition, bromelian-5-FU combinations showed synergistic effect on AGS cells, while antagonistic to MCF7 cells. In terms of cell apoptosis induction, bromelain (IC30)-cisplatin (IC20) displayed additive effect on MCF7, compared to cisplatin single treatment (p <0.04), while bromelain (IC40)-5-FU (IC10) and bromelain (IC30)-5-FU (IC20) afforded additive apoptotic effects on AGS (p <0.04) and MCF7 (p <0.05), respectively, in comparison to 5-FU single treatment.

Conclusion. A bromelain-based combination using cisplatin showed concordant effects on cell proliferation impediment and apoptotic induction on MCF7, while the same results were noticed with a bromelain-5-FU combination to AGS cells. The bromelain-based chemo-herbal pathways should further be investigated in the frame of multi-chemotherapeutic drugs researches.
Feeding Ecology of Pachypterus atherinoides (Actinopterygii; Siluriformes; Schilbeidae): A Small Freshwater Fish from Floodplain Wetlands of Northeast India
Authors: Gogoi Budhin , Das Debangshu Narayan , Saikia Surjya Kumar
Published: October 2020

The feeding ecology of Pachypterus atherinoides was investigated for two consecutive years (2013-2015) from floodplain wetlands in the Subansiri river basin of Assam, North East India. The analysis of its gut content revealed the presence of 62 genera of planktonic life forms along with other animal matters. The organization of the alimentary tract and maximum Relative Mean Length of Gut (0.511±0.029 mm) indicated its carnivorous food habit. The peak gastro-somatic index (GSI) in winter-spring seasons and summer-rainy seasons indicated alteration of its feeding intensity. Furthermore, higher diet breadth on resource use (Levins’ and Hurlbert’s) with zooplankton compared to phytoplankton and total plankton confirmed its zooplanktivore habit. The feeding strategy plots also suggested greater preference to zooplankton compared to phytoplankton. The organization of its gill rakers specified a secondary modification of gut towards either carnivory or specialized zooplanktivory. So, the fish may be a carni-omnivore with preference to zooplankton.
Use of Natural Zeolites as a Detoxifier of Heavy Metals in Water and the Flesh of Reared European Seabass Dicentrarchus labrax
Authors: Aly Hadir A. , Abdel-Rahim Mohamed M. , Sallam Ghada R. , Lotfy Ayman M. , Abdelaty Basem S.
Published: October 2020

A study was conducted to investigate the effects of natural zeolites as a water clarifier on the heavy metal removal efficiency from the underground saltwater used for rearing Dicentrarchus labrax fry. Five concentrations of zeolites were tested: 0 (Z0), 2.5‰ (Z2.5), 5‰ (Z5), 7.5‰ (Z7.5) and 10‰ (Z10). Fry with an initial body weight of 1.53±0.018 g/fish were stocked in 15 aquaria at a density of 10 fry/aquarium. The fish were fed a commercial diet (42% protein and 12.34% lipid) twice daily (09:30 and 14:00) at 5% of their body weight per day for 42 days. Growth, feed utilization, survival and heavy metal removal efficiency were evaluated. The growth performance and feed utilization indices gradually improved with increasing zeolite concentration, with the most significant (P≤0.05) values detected at Z10. The survival rate decreased significantly at Z10 compared with the control (Z0). Increasing the zeolite concentration significantly (P≤0.05) improved the removal efficiency of heavy metals in the rearing water with adsorption selectivity of Pb˃Cd˃Fe˃Cu˃Zn. Furthermore, an increase in the detoxification rate of heavy metals in fish flesh with increasing zeolite level was detected with the removal selectivity of Fe˃Cu˃Zn˃Pb˃Cd. In conclusion, it can be stated that natural zeolites can be used effectively to reduce heavy metals in polluted waters and subsequently in fish flesh in addition to improving fish performance.
How Does the Engineering Species Affect Forest Ecosystems? Changes in Germination and Development Rate of Non-Forest Species Under the Nests of Ardea cinerea L.
Authors: Hryń Wiktoria , Czarnecka Joanna , Kitowski Ignacy , Franczak Magdalena , Bartmiński Piotr
Published: October 2020

An ecosystem engineer is a species that indirectly changes the availability of resources for other organisms via physical modification of the habitat. A good example of such species is Ardea cinerea L. – a big waterbird that forms colonies up to a few hundreds of nests during the breeding season. The colonies modify the habitat in the close vicinity of the nests mainly through heavy input of organic matter (feces, dropped or regurgitated food leftovers, eggshells, dead birds, etc.), which in turn affects vegetation. In our previous study, we observed that the probability of occurrence of non-forest species under the nests was 29.5 times higher in control plots in two types of forest vegetation (oligotrophic pine forest and riparian mixed forest). Adaptation for long-distance dispersal turned out to be insignificant for the probability of species occurrence, which suggested that the diaspores of those species must have been present in the forest soil before the establishment of the grey heron colony. In the present study, we used the seedling emergence method to compare the structure of the soil seed bank in breeding sites and control plots in two forest ecosystems mentioned above. We also tested whether the increased amount of nitrates in soil had a positive effect on the rate of germination and growth of seedlings. The results have shown that some reservoir of ruderal species was indeed present in the control plots, although their amount was higher under the heronries. We have proved that the number of germinating seeds of ruderal species depends on the concentration of nitrate in the soil of the pine forest. Comparison of the dry weight of 30- and 60-day-old seedlings of Rumex acetosella (pine forest) and Betula pendula (riparian forest) from the control and breeding sites showed an increased size of seedlings coming from the breeding sites of both forest communities.
Flea Communities on Small Mammals in Lowland Environment
Authors: Baláž Ivan , Zigová Martina
Published: October 2020

The landscape of south-western Slovakia is characterised by anthropogenous reshaping, while fragments of undisturbed, waterlogged habitats have been preserved in what remains of the meandering ancient Žitava River. These refuges are inhabited by various small mammal species and their blood-sucking ectoparasites. Between 2014 and 2018, research on them was carried out in Slovakia’s Danubian Lowland (Podunajská nížina) during three out of the four seasons (spring, summer and autumn). The small mammals were captured at 27 localities. The occurrence of nine flee species from the Hystrichopsyllidae, Ctenophthalmidae and Ceratophyllidae families was documented on 12 small burrowing mammals. During the course of all the seasons in which research was conducted, Ctenophthalmus agyrtes, C. assimilis, Megabothris turbidus a Nosopsyllus fasciatus were found, among the most dominant species to be seen on small burrowing mammals.
Migration of the Banking Sector to Digital Banking in Poland
Authors: Kozak Sylwester , Golnik Bartosz
Published: October 2020

Subject and purpose of work: The aim of the article is to present selected aspects of the digitization process of the banking sector in Poland, including the role of the digital channel in the sale of banking products.

Materials and methods: The research is of comparative character and is based on data from the financial website PRNews.pl, NBP, KNF and the ECB Bank.

Results: Mobile banking in Poland is highly concentrated. In 2016-2019, the five largest banks serviced 82% of all mobile banking customers, and their number increased by 27% annually.

Conclusions: Digitization simplifies the process of obtaining and processing information and contributes to reducing operating costs. However it also forces banks to prepare appropriate security and implement costly technological investments. It increases the availability and quality of banking services, and moves customer service from banking branches to the digital channel. Additionally it contributes to reducing the network of branches and the number of employees employed in them.
Transformative Tourism as an Innovative Tool for Rural Development
Authors: Vidickienė Dalia , Vilkė Rita , Gedminaitė-Raudonė Živilė
Published: October 2020

This conceptual article identifies major changes in the 21st century society that gave birth to a new generation of cultural tourists and to an innovative type of cultural tourism business that meets their needs – transformative tourism. The transformative tourism business is analysed as an integral part of a transition from the paradigm of industrial to post-industrial servitized economic system by implementation of three major paradigm innovations. The research related to the development of paradigm innovations in cultural tourism provides an opportunity to supplement the existing knowledge not only about innovative ways of cultural tourism development in rural regions, but also about general challenges facing the rural development in the post-industrial society.
Cultural Tourism as a Possible Driver of Rural Development in Czechia. Wine Tourism in Moravia as a Case Study
Authors: Šťastná Milada , Vaishar Antonín , Ryglová Kateřina , Rašovská Ida , Zámečník Silvie
Published: October 2020

The paper connects culture, tourism and rural development. It tries to make an overview of various forms of cultural tourism in Czechia. Attractions of cultural tourism are identified and ranked according to their cognitive function. Their list includes cultural heritage in spheres of archaeological sites, architecture, arts, folklore, pilgrimages, technical works, cultural events or protected landscape areas. The culture of wine in Southern Moravia has been chosen as an example. Its analysis was elaborated using the Importance/Performance Analysis. Czechia has great potential for the cultural tourism development in rural areas but it seems to demand a great deal of work when one needs to be constantly reconciling the changing interests of tourists with the potential of the regions. One of the important goals is to attract tourists into rural areas and thus limit their concentration in the most attractive places. Rural cultural tourism seems to be a significant aspect in this respect. The part of the study is the example of the adaptation of the current situation with COVID-19 to properly support the development and cultural potential of domestic tourism in South Moravian region in relation to the economic impacts on international tourism.
Artificial Intelligence Research Community and Associations in Poland
Authors: Nalepa Grzegorz J. , Stefanowski Jerzy
Published: October 2020

In last years Artificial Intelligence presented a tremendous progress by offering a variety of novel methods, tools and their spectacular applications. Besides showing scientific breakthroughs it attracted interest both of the general public and industry. It also opened heated debates on the impact of Artificial Intelligence on changing the economy and society. Having in mind this international landscape, in this short paper we discuss the Polish AI research community, some of its main achievements, opportunities and limitations. We put this discussion in the context of the current developments in the international AI community. Moreover, we refer to activities of Polish scientific associations and their initiative of founding Polish Alliance for the Development of Artificial Intelligence (PP-RAI). Finally two last editions of PP-RAI joint conferences are summarized.
Phytopythium: origin, differences and meaning in modern plant pathology
Authors: Tkaczyk Miłosz
Published: October 2020

The genus Phytopythium is a relatively new group of organisms distinguished from the Pythium genus. These are organisms closely related to Pythium and Phytophthora, with similar structure and biology. Despite many similarities, this genus is characterised by several morphological features that allow it to be easily identified. Until now, more than 20 species belong to this genus, most of which are saprophytic organisms. However, there is also a group of species particularly dangerous to plants. These species include, among others, Pp. litorale, Pp. helicoides and Pp. vexans. The purpose of this work was to collect information about these organisms and present them in a condensed form. The study contains basic information about the history of the type of separation, differences in morphology distinctive genus of Phytopythium, Phytophthora and Pythium and information about diseases and host plants. Information is also provided on the potential threat posed by these organisms to forest ecosystems.
Harvendusraiete tasuvuse analüüs ja pikaajalise mõju simulatsioonid Järvselja õppe- ja katsemetskonnas
Authors: Kaimre Paavo , Vellak Priit , Teder Meelis
Published: October 2020

The results of the analysis of profitability and impact of thinning on wood production in Järvselja Training and Experimental Forest Centre are presented in the article. The profitability was assessed on the basis of harvesting income and costs of logging operations in 2015–2017. The impact of thinning on the wood production was assessed using the MOTTI simulation program. Three different scenarios for the management of the stand were compared: 1) stand management in accordance with the Finnish forest management recommendations (Tapio recommendations), 2) management according to the Estonian Forest Management Regulations and 3) stand development without thinning. The results revealed that 61 thinnings out of the 70 were profitable. The average net income from thinning was 344 euros per hectare. Fuel wood accounted for 45% and pulpwood for 30% of the harvested timber. Net present value was applied as a criterion to assess the profitability of long-term management scenarios. Considering Tapio's recommendations, the total net present value was 33% higher and following Estonian forest management rules, it was 23% higher compared to the simulations without thinning. The results indicated that thinning is economically viable in the long run. In simulations without thinning, timber production is the highest, but the net present value of management is lower compared to simulations with thinning.
Response of Three Nigerian Breeds of Sheep Experimentally Infected with Trypanosoma vivax to Diminazene Aceturate Therapy
Authors: Oyewusi I. K. , Takeet M. I. , Oyewusi A. J. , Talabi A. O. , Sonibare A. O. , Otesile E. B.
Published: October 2020

The efficacy of diminazene aceturate in three Nigerian breeds of sheep [West African Dwarf (WAD), Yankassa and Ouda] experimentally infected with Trypanosoma vivax was studied. Five rams of each breed were administered 0.5 ml of goat blood containing 2.5 × 106
T. vivax per millilitre intravenously, while three rams of each breed served as uninfected controls. The treatment with diminazene aceturate was intramuscularly administered to the infected sheep, when their packed cell volume (PCV) fell to 15 %, at a dosage of 7 mg.kg−1 b. w. The parameters measured were parasitaemia, live weight gain and PCV. By 24 hours post treatment (pt.), no trypanosomes were detected by either the Haematocrit Concentration Technique (HCT) or the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) in the blood of any of the treated sheep. However, a relapse of parasitaemia occurred 17 to 32 days pt. in 46.7 % of the treated rams and these were retreated with 14 mg.kg−1 b. w. diminazene aceturate. There were gradual increments in the live weight gain and the PCV of the treated rams until the resurgence of parasitaemia. Ouda had the highest cases of relapse (80 %), the least mean live weight gain and was the only breed in which mortality was recorded despite the treatment. In conclusion, diminazene aceturate administered at 7 mg.kg−1 b. w. cleared the trypanosomes in the blood of all the treated sheep within 24 hours and this was accompanied by the restoration of lost weight and the reversal of anaemia. However, the subsequent resurgence of parasitaemia indicated that a dosage of 7 mg.kg−1 b. w. was no longer reliable for complete elimination of trypanosomes from all the tissues of the host.
Ultrastructure of Granulosa Cells of Bovine Ovarian Antral Follicles in Relation to Atresia
Authors: Pivko J. , Olexiková L. , Dujíčková L. , Makarevich A. V.
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to describe the most common forms of ovarian follicle atresia in large antral follicles of cows and quantify the occurrence of different cell structures in each form. Atresia of antral follicles in ovaries was determined on the basis of ultrastructural images acquired by electron microscopy of ultrathin sections contrasted with uranyl acetate and lead citrate to visualize cell organelles. All forms of atresia in large follicles are accompanied by regressive changes of the granulosa cells. The initial form of atresia is characterized by enlarged intercellular spaces after the disruption of the gap junctions and desmosomes. Small collapsed cells with pyknotic nuclei, substantially reduced the cytoplasm and a higher incidence of lysosomes are located on the surface of the granulosa layer. The stratum granulosum wall collapses and the basal membrane is swollen with a rupture of the lamina basalis. Obliterative atresia is characterized by a multiplied loose connective tissue consisting of collagen fibers, fibroblasts, histiocytes, blood capillaries and sporadically granulocytes. The cystic form of atresia is characterized by small collapsed, pyknotic granulosa cells settled in one or two layers. In luteinization-associated atresia, granulosa cells are hypertrophied, their cytoplasm contains smooth endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria with tubules. In conclusion, the initial atresia of large antral ovarian follicles is associated with processes of cell death, followed by multiplication of the loose connective tissue cells, its dystrophy and hyalinization of the collagen fibers. Ultrastructural examination could be used as a complementary method to improve histopathological diagnostics of cow reproductive organs in veterinary practice.
Morphometric Study of Microscopic Cysts of Sarcocystis Sp. in Sheep Carcasses
Authors: Dahmani As. , Aissi M. , Zenia S. , Harhoura K. , Kadour R. , Saadi A.
Published: October 2020

Muscular samples of the oesophagus and diaphragm of 335 sheep collected from the slaughterhouse of El Harrach were analyzed by the histopathological method to describe the morphology of two species of Sarcocystis: S. arieticanis and S. tenella. The cysts were counted and measured with a micrometer for their dimensions. A total of 895 cysts were measured. The width, length, shape index (length/width), the thickness of the wall and the length of the projections were recorded. The thick-walled cysts of S. tenella were 10—450 μm long (the mean ± SD value was 50.35 μm ± 1.380) and 1—110 μm (the mean ± SD value was 27.51 μm ± 0.533) wide. The cyst walls were 0.5—4 μm thick (the mean ± SD value was 1.547 μm ± 0.020) and provided with radial striations. The shape index was 1—14 μm (the mean ± SD value was 1.93 ± 0.045). While in the S. arieticanis, the cyst wall was thin and had long hair-like protrusions, the cysts measured 8—780 μm (the mean ± SD value was 123.13 μm ± 12.799) in length and 5—100 μm (the mean ± SD value was 37.00 μm ± 1.68) in width. The hair-like protrusions reached a length of 3—14 μm (the mean ± SD value was 5.428 ± 0.353) and the shape index was 1—17 μm (the mean ± SD value was 3.10 ± 0.281). For the length, the width and the shape index, the differences were statistically significant between thin-walled cysts and thick-walled cysts. The general structural features of the cysts, previously described by other authors, were confirmed.
Media portrayal of panic buying: A content analysis of online news portals
Authors: Yasir Arafat S.M. , Kar Sujita Kumar , Menon Vikas , Marthoenis Marthoenis , Sharma Pawan , Alradie-Mohamed Angi , Mukherjee Srijeeta , Kaliamoorthy Charanya , Kabir Russell
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Media reporting has an influential role in panic buying (PB). We aimed to evaluate the media portrayal of PB during this COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We searched, collected, and analysed the news reports from the English media discussing the PB events. The search was done between 23 and 30 May 2020.

Results

A total of 525 news reports were analysed. Approximately half (49.3%) discussed the government action to handle the situation, 36.4% discussed the expert opinion regarding PB, 20.6% discussed the psychology of PB, 21.5% discussed the rumours, and 18.5% suggested remedial measures. Concerning the negative aspects, 96.6% of the titles mentioned panic buying, 75.4% mentioned the cause, and 62.3% mentioned the photos of empty shelves. The media in low–middle-income countries are 1.5 times more likely to include expert opinion (p = 0.03), 2.1 times more likely to discuss rumours regarding PB (p = 0.001), almost thrice more likely to report the cause of PB (p = 0.001), and thrice more likely to mention its impact (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Media has been portraying more negative aspects of PB. Further, there are variations in reporting patterns between high-income and low–middle-income countries.
The Movement of Repetition: Incorporation through Mimetic, Ritual and Imaginative Movements
Authors: Wulf Christoph
Published: October 2020

The movement of repetition is irrevocably linked to the constitution of the human body and is therefore a human condition. The process of hominisation makes this clear. In the body of Homo sapiens and in his movements a connection between nature and culture is created. The movement of repetition is of central importance. Repetition is essential for the evolution of Homo sapiens, the development of communities and individuals. Repetitions are mimetic; they lead to productive imitations in which new elements and events also emerge. Mimetic movements and the repetitive aspects they contain open up the historical and cultural world to people. Repetitions in rituals lead to the acquisition of an implicit silent practical body knowledge. The emotions arising in mimetic processes are movements through which an orientation in the world takes place. The imaginations based on the eccentricity of the human being and on movements of repetition contribute to the development of a collective and individual imaginary.
Seeing the Situational Gestalt - Movement in Therapeutic Spaces
Authors: Buchholz Michael B.
Published: October 2020

This paper starts with a short review of recent developments in psychotherapy process research and analyzes that a medical, or better, technical approach in process research – using words such as ‘intervention’, ‘effect’ and ‘outcome’ – is gradually acknowledged as only one side of psychotherapy; the other, more human or ‘humanistic’ side, is ‘conversation’, described by prominent authors as ‘low technology’. Conversation analysis cannot study psychotherapy as a whole. Sessions are subdivided into ‘situations’. What are situations? I make a proposal to answer this question by three components: open up, select and control options. Then, 11 transcribed extracts from psychoanalytical therapy sessions are used to describe three types of situations and the special kind of requirements they demand from a therapist. Obviously, such situations appear during a session, they can be handled if therapists are sensitized for certain difficulties to arise. Shift-of-situation and double meaning are new observations in this approach to define the situational gestalt and train ‘seeing’ it.
Learning outcomes physiotherapy in neurology – a structured consensus finding of the Austrian University Network Physiotherapy in Neurology (ÖHPN) / Learning Outcomes Physiotherapie in der Neurologie – eine strukturierte Konsensfindung des österreichischen Hochschulnetzwerkes Physiotherapie in der Neurologie (ÖHPN)
Authors: Lotter Karin , Kidritsch Anita , Aftenberger Hannes , Mayrhofer Gabriele , Polanz Karin , Riedl Tanja , Seiringer Lisa , Wess Theres , Winkler Agnes , Wolf Brigitte , Pilsl Elisabeth , Bauer-Horvath Heike
Published: October 2020

Background

European Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in tertiary education at Universities of Applied Sciences recommend a high level of competence orientation. This can be achieved and evaluated by the definition of Learning Outcomes. Furthermore, these Outcomes can assure a comparison of the level of education after graduation. Efforts should be made to achieve this form of Quality Assurance for the professional education of physiotherapists.

Objective

The aim of this paper is to state consensus of the Austrian Universities of Applied Sciences Network for Physiotherapy in Neurology through the definition of shared Learning Outcomes for the field of Neurology for undergraduate physiotherapy students.

Methods

Based on the guidelines of the European Qualification Framework (EQF), Physio Austria (Austrian Association of Physiotherapists) published the competency profile for physiotherapists describing learning outcomes of EQF levels 6 as the first study cycle with Bachelor degree. Specific learning outcomes for Physiotherapy in Neurology were added for the further development and differentiated assurance of Quality Standards in coordination with experts from the Universities of Applied Sciences in Austria.

Results

In addition to the Learning Outcomes described in the competency profile of Physio Austria, this consensus paper describes those specifically for the EQF Level 6 of physiotherapy in neurology. Specifications in neurology were made for the following roles: Expert in Physiotherapy, Communicator, Teamworker, Health Promoter, Innovator, Health Professional.

Conclusion

Recommendations for quality assurance in tertiary education are actively pursued across all participating Universities of Applied Sciences. This allows a better comparability of the educational standards in Physiotherapy in Neurology in Europe as well as internationally. This is of great importance for physiotherapists as health professionals.
Assessment of the European Commission's proposals for financing the EU budget in 2021–20271
Authors: Kawecka-Wyrzykowska Elżbieta
Published: October 2020

A major problem in all European Union (EU) budgetary negotiations is the approach of Member States in net return terms (the fair-return approach). EU members compare their contributions to the EU budget with transfers that they receive from the budget. Net payers tend to reduce the size of the budget to contribute less. Brexit has aggravated the problem of the size of revenue (due to the United Kingdom's position as a big net payer). Also, new expenditure needs have arisen (for protecting external borders and climate, innovation, etc.). To address those needs, in 2018, the Commission submitted three proposals to supplement the current resources to finance the EU budget after the expiry of the principles of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2014–2020 at the end of 2020. The article aims to indicate whether the Commission's proposals are good instruments for the financing of the EU budget. The assessment relies on selected criteria based on theory. It also takes account of the feasibility of the proposals. The main conclusion is that none of the proposals meets well theoretical criteria of “genuine” EU revenue. Also, for practical reasons, it will be difficult for the Member States to come to an agreement on new budgetary resources. All proposals would be relatively costly for Poland.
The importance of social media on the FMCG market in Bangladesh
Authors: Bednarz Joanna , Orelly Patricia
Published: October 2020

Objective

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to identify the general use of the internet and examples of main social media used by residents of Bangladesh and second, to discover their potential in building marketing communication between FMCG manufacturers and consumers.

Methods

The research method used is a quantitative survey (face-to-face interviews) on the sample of 100 consumers conducted in September 2019 in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh.

Key findings

The majority of respondents have regular access to internet facilities and mainly two social media platforms are used: Facebook and YouTube. Product informations are sent to these media platforms for making purchasing decisions of the products of the FMCG market. Mostly males and the youngest group of respondents show the highest interest to social media.

Originality

This study contributes to the literature to develop the understanding of marketing communications from the perspective of FMCG manufacturers entering Bangladesh, as it is being the emerging market.
Will shared leadership engenders innovative work behaviors among salesmen toward improved performance?
Authors: Ayodele Oniku , Kehinde Mokwenyei Anita
Published: October 2020

Studies have shown that issue of shared leadership is directly related to leadership style adopted in the organization, which is germane and strategic to teamwork to effectuate high business performance across industries. The study looks at the relationship between the different leadership styles and innovative work behaviors (IWBs) that would ultimately lead to improved performance in financial sector among sales team. Thus, the study examines the operational frameworks of the different leadership styles and the effects on IWBs vis-à-vis sales team work in the financial industry. The case of financial industry stems from the fact that operations are currently changing from arm-chair marketing to aggressive selling strategy to improve customer base and financial inclusion in the economy. The study found out that leadership styles—transformational leadership, individual empowering leadership (IEL), team empowering leadership, and participative leadership (PL) are very strategic to sales teamwork, but IEL and PL are more strategic and performance-enhancing to behaviorIWB in financial sector sales teamwork.
Quality Attributes of Local and Imported Honeys Commercialized in Algeria
Authors: Dahmani Kheira , Houdeib Jinane B. , Zouambi Amina , Bendeddouche Badis , Fernández-Muiño Miguel , Osés Sandra M. , Teresa Sancho M.
Published: October 2020

This study was aimed to assess quality, authentication parameters and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) of Algerian and imported honeys sold in Algerian markets. Results indicated that 80% Algerian samples fulfilled international standards, whereas only 21.4% imported honeys were in agreement with the current regulations. 13.3% Algerian samples and 7.1% imported honeys showed values of proline lower than 180 mg/kg, which is the recommended limit for authentic honeys. Comparing Algerian and imported honeys, electrical conductivity, degrees Brix, diastase activities and proline contents were higher in Algerian honeys, in contrast to moisture percentages, hydroxymethylfurfural contents and acid phospatase activities that were higher in imported honeys. Methanolic extracts of Algerian samples were richer both in total phenolics and flavonoids determined in alkaline medium. There were not significant differences between Algerian and imported samples concerning pH, free acid, invertase, total carotenoid, total phenolics of raw honeys and TEAC, as well as regarding total flavonoids determined in neutral medium and o-diphenols of honeys’ methanolic extracts. Principal components analysis showed a good separation between Algerian and imported samples, only one multifloral Algerian honey being misclassified. Our research showed that a legal frame for Algerian honeys is of utmost importance. Spurge-labeled honeys were grouped, showing interesting common features that should be taken into account in a future regulation, in which a protected designation of origin for spurge honeys could be considered.
Influence of channel reservation on the handover calls flow in mobile network
Authors: Lebl Aleksandar , Mitić Dragan , Markov Žarko , Matić Vladimir
Published: October 2020

In this paper the properties of handover traffic are analyzed in the system with channel reservation. The reservation of several traffic channels only for handover calls leads to probability of handover calls congestion decrease to the level of per mill or even lower. The congestion of all traffic channels in the neighbouring cells is the cause that handover traffic process deviates from the Poissonian distribution and this deviation is negligible, because handover calls congestion probability is very low. This low handover calls probability is also the reason why implementation of one equivalent cell instead of 6 neighbouring cells surrounding the central cell does not model satisfactory the traffic flow in the mobile network. The randomness of handover calls arrival to the central cell is tested by our originally developed simulation program. Coefficient of variation of time between handover calls arrival to the central cell is calculated as the result of simulation. We introduced the ratio of the coefficient of variation of the time between new handover calls appearance in the central cell to the value of this coefficient for surrounding cell as the measure of handover calls randomness: the nearer this ration to 1, the more random is handover calls arrival to the central cell.
Assessment of Landscape Change of Lesser Himalayan Road Corridor of Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Sur Ujjwal , Singh Prafull
Published: October 2020

The spatio-temporal monitoring and understanding of the pattern of land-use and land-cover (LULC) change in the Himalayas are essential for sustainable development, especially from environmental planning and management perspective. The increasing anthropogenic activities and climate change in the Siwalik and Lesser Himalayas have substantially experienced rapid change in the natural landscape; however, detailed investigation and documentation of such observed changes are limited. This study aims to assess the LULC changes along the Kalsi-Chakrata road corridor located in the Lesser Himalayan region of Uttarakhand state of India using remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) for the periods 2000-2010 and 2010-2019. The LULC maps were generated from multi-temporal satellite images of the Landsat -7 Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) series for 2000 and 2010, and the Linear Imaging Self-Scanning System IV (LISS IV) images from Resourcesat-1 for 2019. The extent of spatial landscape changes occurred in different LULC classes was performed through the cross-tabulation change matrix in the GIS module up to the individual village level. The results indicate that the forest cover of the area was intensively converted to open areas, sparse vegetation, and different land-use categories. These included agricultural land, built-up areas, and decreased from 47.27 % in 2000 to 36.66 % in 2019. During the same period, the open areas and agricultural areas were increased by 15.86 % and 4.49 %, respectively. Moreover, the built-up areas (both urban and rural settlements) were progressively increased from 0.33% in 2000 to 0.56 % in 2019. The conversion of forests and sparsely vegetative areas to agricultural land and rural settlements is closely associated with the increasing anthropogenic activities due to population growth, tourism, movement of heavy vehicles for mining and other economic activities. The changes in land-cover to land use classes are more prominent in Samalta Dadauli, Nithala, Bhugtari, and Udapalta villages located between Kalsi and Sahiya town. The reported maximum transition of forest areas into the open area, agricultural land, and sparse vegetation indicates the possible scarcity of water, which could link with the incidence of climatic or seasonal variation in the Lesser Himalayan terrain to the hydro-geomorphic and anthropogenic processes. The trend in LULC change at the village level gave the insight to help to prioritize future mitigation planning and sustainable development that are exceedingly convenient for the planners, policymakers, and local authorities for comprehensive forest management, biodiversity strategies, and necessary conservation
A P4 medicine perspective of gut microbiota and prediabetes: Systems analysis and personalized intervention
Authors: Huang Qiongrong , Fang Qiaojun , Hu Zhiyuan
Published: October 2020

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) accounts for approximately 90% of diabetes worldwide and has become a global public health problem. Generally, individuals go to hospitals and get healthcare only when they have obvious T2D symptoms. While the underlying cause and mechanism of the disease are usually not well understood, treatment is for the symptoms, but not for the disease cause, and patients often continue to progress with more symptoms. Prediabetes is the early stage of diabetes and provides a good time window for intervention and prevention. However, with few symptoms, prediabetes is usually ignored without any treatment. Obviously, it is far from ideal to rely on the traditional medical system for diabetes healthcare. As a result, the medical system must be transformed from a reactive approach to a proactive approach. Root cause analysis and personalized intervention should be conducted for patients with prediabetes. Based on systems medicine, also known as P4 medicine, with a predictive, preventive, personalized, and participatory approach, new medical system is expected to significantly promote the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases such as prediabetes and diabetes. Many studies have shown that the occurrence and development of diabetes is closely related to gut microbiota. However, the relationship between diabetes and gut microbiota has not been fully elucidated. This review describes the research on the relationship between gut microbiota and diabetes and some exploratory trials on the interventions of prediabetes based on P4 medicine model. Furthermore, we also discussed how these findings might influence the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diabetes in the future, thereby to improve the wellness of human beings.
Safety and efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for difficult-to-retrieve common bile duct stones: A ten-year experience
Authors: Manzoor ul Haque Muhammad , Hassan Luck Nasir , Ali Tasneem Abbas , Mudassir Laeeq Syed , Mandhwani Rajesh , Hanif Farina M. , Ullah Lail Ghulam
Published: October 2020

Background and Objective

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) for common bile duct (CBD) stones has been used in the past, but experience is limited. We report our experience of ESWL in the management of difficult CBD stones.

Methods

Patients with difficult-to-retrieve CBD stones were enrolled and underwent ESWL. Fluoroscopy is used to target the stones after injection of contrast via nasobiliary drain. CBD clearance was the main outcome of the study.

Results

Eighty-three patients were included (mean age 50.5 ± 14.5 years); these patients were mainly females (43; 51.8%). Large stones >15 mm were noted in 64 (77.1%), CBD stricture in 22 (26.5%) and incarcerated stone in 8 (9.6%) patients. Patients needed 2.1 ± 1.2 sessions of lithotripsy and 4266 ± 1881 shock waves per session. In 75 (90.3%) patients, the fragments were extracted endoscopically after ESWL, while spontaneous passage was observed in 8 (9.6%). Total CBD clearance was achieved in 67 (80.6%) patients, partial clearance in 5 (6%) and no response in 11 (13.2%). Failure of the treatment was observed in large stone with size ≥2 cm (P = 0.021), incarcerated stone (P = 0.020) and pre–endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography cholangitis (P = 0.047).

Conclusion

ESWL is a noninvasive, safe and effective therapeutic alternative to electrohydraulic lithotripsy and surgical exploration for difficult biliary stones.
Cytotoxic and apoptotic effect of nanoclinoptilolite on canine osteosarcoma cell lines
Authors: Ulutaş Pınar Alkım , Kıral Funda , Ulutaş Bülent , Aşıcı Gamze Sevri Ekren
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Clinoptilolite has antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties due to its biological activities. In various cancer cell culture studies, it has been reported effective against tumour cells and gave positive results in treatment of various tumours in dogs. No study was found on the effects of the nanoparticulate form, nanoclinoptilolite, on cancer cells. The aim of this study was to determine its cytotoxic and apoptotic effects in canine osteosarcoma (OSA) cell culture.

Material and Methods

Doses at 50% inhibitory concentration were determined by measuring the dose- and duration-dependent cytotoxicity of nanoclinoptilolite on canine D-17 osteosarcoma cells by methylthiazol tetrazolium (MTT) test for 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h. Murine caspase-3 and -7 activity and expression levels of the BAX and BCL2 genes were measured using RT-PCR to investigate the apoptotic effect.

Results

Nanoclinoptilolite decreased cell viability and induced caspase-3- and -7-mediated apoptosis in treated canine OSA cells. Furthermore, its application to canine OSA cells downregulated the expression of BCL2 and upregulated the expression of proapoptotic BAX.

Conclusion

Clinoptilolite, which was previously demonstrated to have anticancer properties, decreased cell viability effectively and rapidly and increased the apoptotic cell ratio in a novel use in nanoparticle form, exhibiting this effect by increasing the BAX/BCL2 ratio.