bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Postharvest Losses in Tomato Production in The Savannah Region of Togo
Authors: Goka Mawuena G. , Dufrechou Marie , Picouet Pierre , Soncy Kouassi , Ameyapoh Yaovi
Published: October 2021

Post-harvest losses have been identified as one of the main causes of food shortage problems in most developing countries and in Togo especially. The aim of this study was to examine the determinants of post-harvest losses in tomato production in the Savannah region of Togo. A standardized structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 25 farmers selected through a combination of purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the characteristics of the respondents. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine the determinants of postharvest losses of tomatoes. The typical tomato farmer in the locality is 37 years, married, with a household of three people, and having attained a basic level of education. On average, farmers grow tomatoes on a farm of about 2 hectares and have about 10 years of farming experience. The study showed that 42% of tomatoes during the major season were lost and 90% during the minor season. From the farmers' point of view, the main sources of losses were rotting and bruising due to improper handling, diseases, and pest attacks. Regression analysis showed that farmer gender, household size, farm size, number of days in storage significantly influenced the level of post-harvest losses. Female gender, farm size, and the number of days in storage were positively associated with losses in tomato production. However, household size, membership in cooperatives, and growing improved varieties reduced post-harvest losses. Limited access to credit, lack of storage facilities, and lack of market access are the main constraints faced by tomato farmers. The study recommended periodic training of producers and membership in cooperatives. Education of farmers on growing improved varieties of tomatoes as well as training in proper processing of tomato fruits and derivatives to reduce post-harvest losses.
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Foodborne Pathogens in Sentinel Dairy Farms
Authors: Baluka S. A. , Musisi L.N. , Buyinza L. S. Y. , Ejobi F.
Published: October 2021

Dairy cattle are common carriers of important foodborne pathogens. Escherichia coli, Salmonella and Campylobacter jejuni are among the commonest causes of foodborne diseases. The high prevalence of microbial infections is escalating antimicrobial usage in human health and for growth promotion and prophylaxis in animal health. Overuse of antimicrobials is increasing antimicrobial residues in animal source foods and accelerating antimicrobial resistance. The study collected 184 samples from 33 dairy farms and assessed the prevalence of Escherichia coli, Salmonella and Campylobacter jejuni and their AMR. Sample inoculation for bacterial isolation was by agar surface streaking method and broth dilution. Escherichia coli was isolated on Chromogenic Coliform agar at 37°C for 24 hour forming dark blue colonies confirmed by Indole, Methyl Red, Voges-Proskauer and Citrate biochemical tests. Escherichia coli antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done by a single disc diffusion method against eight standard antibiotics. Sensitive, Intermediate and Resistant system was used for reporting antimicrobial susceptibility testing results. Escherichia coli was isolated in 21.7% samples, Campylobacter jejuni and Salmonella were absent. Escherichia coli was isolated in fecal samples from 48.5% of study farms, 56.9% of fecal and 4.8% of water samples and not isolated in all milk samples tested. All Escherichia coli isolates were susceptible to gentamycin, ciprofloxacin, cefoxitin and cefotaxime but 9 were resistant to ampicillin, oxacillin, ceftazidime, and ceftriaxone, produced 4 penicillinase and 1 beta-lactamase while 4 didn’t exhibit any specific resistance mechanism. Aminoglycosides, quinolones, and furans showed no resistance. When stratified by sample, 7 fecal Escherichia coli isolates showed resistance compared to 2 water isolates. All fecal and water isolates were resistant to oxacillin. The majority of Beta-lactamase and penicillinase producing isolates were from fecal samples. Oxacillin was widely resisted hence it should not be used in routine treatment of bacterial infections to avoid treatment failures. All Escherichia coli isolates were susceptible to gentamycin, ciprofloxacin, cefoxitin and cefotaxime, 9 were resistant to ampicillin, oxacillin, ceftazidime, and ceftriaxone, produced 4 penicillinase and 1 beta-lactamase. Aminoglycosides, quinolones, and furans showed no resistance. There is a need to conduct continuous professional development training programmes for veterinarians and veterinary paraprofessionals to promote prudent use of antimicrobials. Access and use of gentamycin, ciproflaxacin, cefoxitin and cefotaxime by dairy farmers and unqualified people should be restricted to prevent or delay resistance to these four.
Empirical Characterization of Heavy Metals in Crude Oil Spill Sites in Emohua, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Ahiamadu Nnamdi Michael , Nwaogazie Ify L. , Momoh Yusuf O. L.
Published: October 2021

The study assessed the concentration of heavy metals in three oil spill sites in Emohua local government area in Rivers State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected at depth 0-30cm for surface soil samples and up to 10m for sub-surface soil samples depending on the depth of borehole. Groundwater samples were collected from drilled boreholes while the surface water samples were collected from fishponds or water bodies (rivers) close to the oil spill sites. The samples taken from the oil spill sites were analysed to determine the level of concentration of 10 Department of Petroleum Resource (DPR) specified heavy metals (Cd, Zn, Cu, Pb, Cr, Ba, Ni, Hg, As, and Co). BUCK Scientific Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) was used in detecting the concentration of the heavy metals. For the surface soil, Pb concentration in site A and B were significantly higher than what was obtained at site C, with a mean concentration of 219.70, 130.01 and 3.41mg/kg respectively for the three sites. The mean lead (Pb) concentration obtained in the surface soil was within DPR and United State Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) acceptable limits. Barium also has significant concentration in both the surface soil and sub-surface soil. Kruskal Wallis test indicated significant difference in the Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu, Cr and Ba concentration in surface/topsoil among the three sites and also indicated significant difference in the concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, Ba and As in sub-surface soil among the sites. Little heavy metal concentration was found in both the groundwater and surface water. The study showed that even if some heavy metals were detected at the oil spill sites, they do not pose any serious health risk, as all the heavy metals in the four environmental media at the three sampling sites were below the national limit stipulated by the Department of Petroleum Resource (DPR), Nigeria.
Geochemistry and Determination of Mineral Properties of Dolomite Deposit in Ikpeshi Southern, Nigeria
Authors: Omoseebi A. O. , Tanko I. Y.
Published: October 2021

This work focused on the geochemistry and determination of the mineral properties’ distribution of dolomite deposit from Ikpeshi, using variogram analysis, Samples collected from the study area were subjected to laboratory analysis to determine the porosity, water content and geochemical properties. Variograms maps were constructed and fitted to the model. The results of the variogram analysis were used in plotting of predictive maps which show the property distribution of the dolomite. The porosity varies between 0.68%–3.24% and the Water Content varies between 0.1–1.65%. The geochemical analyses reveal that the average concentration of the elemental oxides is 1.790, 0.461, 0.299, 0.045, 20.380 and 46.130 for SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, MnO, MgO and CaO, respectively. CaO and MgO are more abundant when compared with other major elements; the predictive maps of the distribution and directions of the mineral properties and the distribution are not uniform in all directions which indicates that the mineral properties of the dolomite deposit are anisotropic.
Real-time Magnetic Observatory Network: A Review
Authors: Lin Jyh-Woei
Published: October 2021

The International Real-time Magnetic Observatory Network (INTERMAGNET) was based on the Observatory Instruments in Ottawa, Canada in August 1986. After coordination between the United States and British Geological Surveys, this network could use to record Earth’s magnetic field e.g., Disturbance storm time (Dst) index that monitored a large geomagnetic storm. The INTERMAGNET has been used in to access the observed communicating. The production of geomagnetic products could be obtained in real-time. Overseeing the operations of INTERMAGNET, the first geomagnetic Information Node (GIN) was established in 1991, the first CD-ROM/DVD was published in 1991.
Relationship between Quantum Physics and Maxwell’s Equations in the Model of a Hydrogen Atom
Authors: Khoroshavtsev Y. E.
Published: October 2021

An attempt to bring together two different theories – classical electrodynamics and quantum mechanics is made. On the example of a hydrogen atom the problem of the hypothetic electron fall into a nucleus by means of the energy conservation law is examined. The essence of the present approach consists in the assumption, that the energy and momentum of an electron in quantum model are proportional to corresponding electromagnetic fluxes. In order to achieve the result, the new formula of momentum flux density not using Poynting vector was proposed. It states that the momentum flux depends not only on electric and magnetic components of the field, but also on a frequency of an electromagnetic wave. As the main result, it was demonstrated that the total including annihilation energy of an electron in Bohr’s atom model is equal to energy of a free electron mc2 without any mention of Relativity. An electromagnetic field inside an atom occurs quantized for each electron orbit. An additional consequence shows that the two fundamental definitions of quantum energy mc2 and ħω are interrelated. If ħω is admitted according to quantum physics, then mc2 follows automatically and vice versaю
Rotational Ground-State Bands of ¹⁶⁸Hf Nucleus
Authors: Hossain I. , Abdullah Hewa Y. , Saeed M. A. , Alzanbaqi M. O. , Sharrad Fadhil I.
Published: October 2021

This paper has been explained to study the rotational arrangement of even-even 168Hf isotope using the phenomenological fitting, Sood’s semi-empirical formula. The rotational energies from the calculated values were compared to the experimental data. The result shows that in 168Hf, calculated energies fit the experimental values to a remarkable degree of accuracy.
Variation of Velocity and Potential of Orbit Bounded Electron with Free Electron Beam
Authors: Koirala B.
Published: October 2021

The disturbance of free electron to bounded electron (columb potential) with different free velocity cause changes in potential and velocity of bounded electron when passes nearby. This disturbance increases and decrease both the velocity and potential of the bounded electron. The velocity changes due to repulsion between charges and this repulsion change the distance separation between bounded electron and positively charge electron. After passing away the free electron nearby the bounded electron both velocity and potential are regained due to self-energy of bounded electron. The change in potential is symmetric at the instant because the repulsion distance between bounded and free electron is changed symmetrically.
Stability of Quantum Eigenstates and Collapse of Superposition of States in a Fluctuating Vacuum: The Madelung Hydrodynamic Approach
Authors: Chiarelli P. , Chiarelli S.
Published: October 2021

The paper investigates the quantum fluctuating dynamics by using the stochastic generalization of the Madelung quantum-hydrodynamic approach. By using the discrete approach, the path integral solution is derived in order to investigate how the final stationary configuration is obtained from the initial quantum superposition of states. The model shows that the quantum eigenstates remain stationary configurations with a very small perturbation of their mass density distribution and that any eigenstate, contributing to a quantum superposition of states, can be reached in the final stationary configuration. When the non-local quantum potential acquires a finite range of interaction, the work shows that the macroscopic coarse-grained description of the theory can lead to a really classical system. The minimum uncertainty attainable in the stochastic Madelung model is shown to be compatible with maximum speed of transmission of information and interactions. The theory shows that, in the quantum deterministic limit, the uncertainty relations of quantum mechanics are obtained. The connections with the decoherence theory and the Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics are also discussed.
J.R.R. Tolkien: Pioneer of Worldbuilding
Authors: Rawal Ms. Rainysha , Banik Dr. Aparna
Published: October 2021

This paper explains after analysing critical aspects why J. R. R. Tolkien’s efforts are the mere reason for generating huge interests among authors in Fantasy. Among the most prominent novels of 20th century, for considering excellence in any fantasy literature his works stood as a benchmark.

It also highlights about World Building. The greatest contribution belongs to Fantasy Literature is making of new worlds, providing new definition to fantasy and his esteem for different languages made him to use the Language as a constant to create the world from scratch. Tolkien may consider the creator of his own world – Middle-earth which acts as a Universe, it took around 60 years in the creation, has a deep meaning in everything which one can ever expect. He is a prolific artist and his created universe of own geography and history, flora and fauna, languages and cultures, physics and magic proved fine artist constructing the worlds.
UPAYA GURU MENINGKATKAN KOSAKATA ANAK MELALUI METODE BERMAIN PERAN DI TK ALKHAIRAAT 1 PUSAT PALU
Authors: Nurmita  , Nur Asmawaty  , Erniati
Published: October 2021

Penelitian  ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui upaya  guru  meningkatkan  kosakata  pada anak melalui metode bermain peran khususnya  di sekolah Taman Kanak-kanak. Jenis  penelitian  yang  di gunakan  dalam penelitian  ini  adalah  kualitatif deskriptif, yaitu suatu penelitian yang mendapatkan suatu gambaran secara sistematis,  aktual  dan  akurat  mengenai  fakta  dan perkembangan  individu  apa adanya.    Teknik   pengumpulan    data   yang    didapatkan    melalui    observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah reduksi data, penyajian data, dan verifikasi data. Sedangkan keabsahan datanya akan diperkuat dengan melakukan teknik pemeriksaan. Dari hasil penelitian  yang diperoleh  menunjukan  bahwa upaya  guru dalam meningkatkan  kosakata  anak melalui  metode bermain peran  yaitu:  Guru menyiapkan  rencana pembelajaran  harian  (RPPH),  guru memperlihatkan  media gambar  yang  sesuai  dengan  tema,   guru  membicarakan   alat-alat  yang  akan digunakan  oleh  anak untuk  bermain  peran,  guru membagi  tugas  kepada  anak sebelum bermain peran menurut kelompoknya agar tidak berebutan, guru mengumpulkan anak untuk diberi pengarahan, memberi aturan dalam permainana, mengabsen serta menghitung jumlah  anak, guru hanya mengawasi/mendampingi anak   dalam   bermain.   Adapun faktor   pendukung   dan   penghambat   guru   dalam meningkatkan  kosakata anak mealalui meode bermain peran yaitu: Kemampuan guru dalam menerapkan metode bermain peran, sarana dan prasarana, dan faktor pengambat  terdapat pada beberapa  anak yang jarang  hadir di sekolah sehingga anak  tersebut  ketinggalan  mengikuti  kegiatan  pembelajaran   bermain  peran  di sekolah
The Personal Electronic Health Folder and the usefulness of electronic systems to improve health services
Authors: Girtsou Christina , Stergiannis Pantelis , Konstantinidis Theoharis , Martinis Georgios
Published: October 2021

Continuity in patient healthcare shows significant gaps and variations, due to reduced communication between healthcare services. The information transfer to all stages of health structures is often inadequate with many variations, especially at the critical stage after discharge from the hospital, in which patients are usually more vulnerable. The major problem of the lack of interconnection between healthcare services occurs mainly among the elderly, the chronically ill and those who take a lot medication. The main effects of this problem are medication side effects, treatment overlap, poor quality of healthcare and financial costs. Enhancing communication, through the electronic interface and the use of the Personal Electronic Health Folder (P.E.H.F.), which will include the individual details of each patient and information about his clinical status, is aiming at the use of best practices for patient recovery by healthcare providers. The thorough literature review, the strategic analysis PESTEL and the control process, pointed out the need to use the P.E.H.F., to achieve substantial improvements in the quality of patient healthcare. With the practical use of P.E.H.F., the healthcare of all patients will be unquestionably, safe, effective, patient-centered, immediate and fair.
First cases of Hb Lepore in the Russian Federation
Authors: Krasilnikova M. V. , Karamyan N. A. , Litvin E. A. , Mann S. G.
Published: October 2021

Hb Lepore, as the result of fusion of the b- and d-globin genes, leads to decreased amount of non-a-globin chains availability for hemoglobin formation. Hb Lepore, up to now, was not identified among Russian patients. We provide clinical and laboratory information on Hb Lepore Boston–Washington in two cases, one of them familial. A small amount of abnormal Hb was detected by capillary electrophoresis, an abnormal globin chain was shown by HPLC, and the final diagnosis of Hb Lepore Boston– Washington was made by molecular biological analysis of globin genes. Peripheral blood for all affected people revealed RBC’s hypochromia microcytosis and normal Hb concentration. The parents of the patients agreed to use the information, including photos of children, in scientific research and publications.
Inferior vena cava and right atrial thrombosis in children with embryonal tumors
Authors: Akhaladze D. G. , Shatalov K. V. , Arnautova I. V. , Merkulov N. N. , Kachanov D. Yu. , Zarginava G. G. , Krivonosov A. A. , Miakova N. V.
Published: October 2021

Tumor thrombosis of the central venous system in children with embryonal tumors is a rare complication, requiring a comprehensive treatment approach, with chemotherapy and the intervention of a multidisciplinary team of oncologists and cardiac surgeons. The article describes the medical history of a 9-month-old patient with bilateral nephroblastoma and tumor thrombosis of inferior vena cava and right atrium, as well as provides a brief review of the literature. The patient's parents gave their consent to the use of their child's data, including photographs, for research purposes and in publications.
Transperitoneal hernioplasty in a patient with severe hemophilia A on preventive treatment with emicizumab
Authors: Shutov S. A. , Danishyan K. I. , Shcherbakova O. V. , Gorgidze L. A. , Batrov P. A. , Dimitrieva O. S.
Published: October 2021

Performance of surgical interventions in patients with severe hemophilia A on emicizumab requires the development of a protocol for the perioperative period management. Objective. To present the first experience of laparoscopic hernioplasty, hemostatic therapy and laboratory monitoring in a patient with severe hemophilia A on emicizumab. A transperitoneal hernioplasty was performed in a 31-year-old patient with severe hemophilia A on emicizumab. The patient received hemostatic therapy with recombinant FVIII for 5 days. Laboratory parameters (detection of FVIII via chromogenic and clotting methods, thromboelastography, determination of aPTT and FVII inhibitor titer) were monitored for 8 days. For a complete postoperative hemostasis, a significantly smaller amount of FVIII concentrate was required due to the lower frequency of administrations compared to similar surgical interventions in patients with severe hemophilia A who did not receive prophylactic therapy with emicizumab. According to thromboelastrography data, not a single episode of hypercoagulation was recorded. Emicizumab monotherapy can maintain adequate hemostasis during surgical procedures associated with a potentially low risk of perioperative bleeding in patients with hemophilia A. In other situations, the use of standard doses of FVIII concentrate concomitantly with emicizumab makes it possible to control hemostasis during postoperative period without the risk of thrombotic complications. The patient has signed a consent to the use of information, including photos, for research purposes and in publications.
Thrombopoietin receptor agonists for the treatment of severe persistent and chronic immune trombocytopenia in children: clinical data of Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, Immunology
Authors: Suntsova E. V. , Maschan A. A. , Mironenko O. N. , Baydildina D. D. , Kalinina I. I. , Korsantya M. N. , Kotskaya N. N. , Kuzminova Z. A. , Ovsyannikova G. S. , Petrova U. N. , Pshonkin A. V. , Sadovskaya M. N. , Salimova T. Yu. , Trubina N. M. , Fedorova D. V. , Novichkova G. A.
Published: October 2021

Thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RA) – romiplostim and eltrombopag – changed considerably the therapeutic options for severe persistent and chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). The article presents the results of a retrospective study of TPO-RA efficacy and safety in patients under 18 years of age. The study was approved by the Independent Ethics Committee and Scientific Council of the Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology. Sixty-eight children had a total of 89 courses of TPO-RA (44 romiplostim and 45 eltrombopag). Their median age was 6.5 years. The median ITP duration was 15.8 months. All patients received previous ITP therapy (1–6 lines). Before the initiation of TPO-RA, the majority of patients had thrombocytopenia with bleeding. In most cases, the platelet response was achieved within the first 2 months of treatment. The average effective doses of romiplostim and eltrombopag were 10 mg/kg per week and 75 mg per day, respectively. Half of patients in romiplostim group and 62% of patients in eltrombopag group did not require extra therapy. The majority of patients (75.6–81.8%) achieved an overall response, but only near 50% achieved a durable (more than 24 weeks) platelet response. Six patients sustained the response after TPO-RA discontinuation. The most common adverse events (AE) of TPO-RA therapy were transient elevation in hepatic enzymes in eltrombopag group (28.9%) and thrombocytosis (18.2–22.2%) in both groups. In 6 cases the therapy was discontinued due to AEs. Two AEs were serious. Our results demonstrate that TPO-RA could safely increase platelet counts and decrease the risk of spontaneous life-threatening bleeding in nearly half of children with severe persistent and chronic ITP. TPO-RA could help to avoid long-term immunosuppressive therapy and splenectomy or delay them and the ITP remission is possible in some cases.
Clinical case of type I interferonopathy: homozygous STAT2 gain-of-function mutation
Authors: Kozlova А. L. , Leonteva М. Е. , Burlakov V. I. , Nesterenko Z. А. , Laba О. М. , Pisareva М. V. , Kan N. Yu. , Khoreva А. L. , Roppelt А. А. , Yukhacheva D. V. , Rodina Yu. A. , Shvets O. A. , Deordieva E. A. , Kuzmenko N. B. , Mukhina A. A. , Scherbakov A. P. , Abramov D. S. , Tereshchenko G. V. , Konovalov D. M. , Novichkova G. A.
Published: October 2021

The article is devoted to an extremely rare variant of type I interferonopathies associated with a homozygous gain of function (GOF) mutation in the STAT2 gene in a 5-year-old child. This genetic defect was first described in 2019, and so far only 3 cases are known in the world with a similar pathology. Here we present the fourth clinical case and our experience in managing a patient with STAT2 GOF. The article presents the key aspects of the pathogenesis, clinical picture based on the analysis of all known cases of the disease. The absence of established criteria and methods of treatment for this disease is due to the rarity and relative novelty of the described nosology. We present the experience of treatment using a JAK kinase inhibitor, followed by an assessment of the effectiveness of the therapy and side effects. The patient's parents agreed to use the information, including the child's photo, in scientific research and publications.
Immunotherapy in the Treatment of COVID-19
Authors: Malkova A. M. , Starshinovа A. A. , Kudryavtsev I. V. , Dovgalyuk I. F. , Zinchenko Yu. S. , Kudlay D. A.
Published: October 2021

The high mortality rate in COVID-19 can be explained by the development of a hyperinflammatory syndrome, characterized by a cytokine storm and extensive thrombus formation. The main direction for preventing the development of hyperinflammatory syndrome and reducing mortality from COVID-19 is immune therapy, however, the data on the efficacy and criteria for prescribing immune drugs is very heterogeneous. The purpose of this review is to analyze the results of clinical trials on the use of various types of immune therapy and possible criteria for its prescription. Analysis of literature data showed that the most effective among the existing variants of immune therapy were monoclonal antibodies to IL-6, the use of donor plasma in the early stages of treatment. Janus kinase inhibitors, intravenous immunoglobulin improved the clinical characteristics of patients, but did not affect the mortality rate. An analysis of possible predictor-markers of the development of a cytokine storm revealed an increase in the number of neutrophils > 11 × 103/ml, a decrease in the number of lymphocytes > 1000 × 103/ml, an increase in the level of IL-6 > 24 pg/ml, LDH > 300 IU/L, D-dimer > 1000 ng/ml, and CRP > 10 mg/dL as the most informative and accessible in clinical practice at the moment.
The effectiveness of umbilical cord milking/ delayed cord clamping and recombinant human erythropoietin in reducing red blood cell transfusions in extremely and very low birth weight infants
Authors: Sharafutdinova D. R. , Balashova E. N. , Kirtbaya А. R. , Ryndin A. Yu. , Golubtsova J. M. , Ionov O. V.
Published: October 2021

Anemia of prematurity is one of the most common and serious problems of neonatology. The main focus is to prevent of anemia in preterm infants. The aim of the study was to assess effectiveness of umbilical cord milking/delayed cord clamping and erythropoietin therapy in reducing red blood cell transfusions in extremely and very low birth weight infants. This clinical study was approved by the Commission on ethics of biomedical research (Protocol No. 12 November 17, 2016) and approved by the Scientific Council of National Medical Research Center for obstetrics, gynecology and perinatology named academician V.I. Kulakov of the ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation (Protocol No. 19 of November 29, 2016). Analysis of 482 extremely and very low birth weight infants was conducted (from 2008 to 2018). Umbilical cord milking or delayed umbilical cord clamping, both, and in combination with recombinant human erythropoietin therapy, decreasing the phlebotomy losses significantly reduces the need for transfusions of red blood cells in extremely and very low birth weight infants. The effectiveness of erythropoietin therapy, time of its start and various treatment schemes remain controversial, therefore further researches are necessary.
The diagnostics of blastic plasmocytoid dendritic cell neoplasm: report of five cases
Authors: Demina I. A. , Kashpor S. A. , Illarionova O. I. , Dubrovina M. E. , Dudorova A. A. , Olshanskaya Yu. V. , Maschan A. A. , Popov A. M.
Published: October 2021

The diagnosis of rare hematological disorders requires a comprehensive clinical and laboratory investigation with careful interpretation of all test results. Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is one of such rare entities. We have performed a retrospective analysis of the results of immunophenotyping, cytomorphology and cytogenetics of bone marrow tumor cells from 5 patients with BPDCN aged from 8 to 51 years. The study was approved by the Independent Ethics Committee of the Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology. No specific characteristics of blasts were found. No correlation with the treatment and outcomes was noted as well: 3 patients died of progression or relapse (2 and 1, respectively). Bone marrow immunophenotyping is probably the most valuable laboratory test which allows physicians to establish the proper diagnosis in the absence of skin lesions. Flow cytometry immunophenotyping is the only technique used to determine the antigen profile that enables us to distinguish normal plasmacytoid dendritic cells from tumor ones by the presence (or absence) of the expression of CD2, CD7, CD38, CD56, CD303 etc. In the present paper, we provide a detailed description of five cases of BPDCN and main methods for flow cytometry data analysis. The parents of the patients agreed to use the information, including photos of children, in scientific research and publications.
Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma/Kasabach–Merritt syndrome. Сlinical and laboratory characteristics. Analysis of clinical cases
Authors: Khachatryan L. A. , Kletskaya I. S. , Remizov A. N. , Novichkova G. A. , Maschan A. A.
Published: October 2021

Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) is a rare, usually congenital vascular tumor. It resembles Kaposi sarcoma histologically, but etiologically it is not associated with herpes simplex virus type 8. KHE refers to tumors of intermediate malignancy degree. The most severe complication is the addition of thrombocytopenia and consumption coagulopathy, i.e. development of the Kasabach–Merritt syndrome/phenomenon (KMS), which determines the high mortality rate (up to 30%) in this histological variant. The frequency of occurrence of KMS is unknown. Over Patients with KHE/KMS have clear clinical and laboratory characteristics, which in most cases allow make to diagnose without histological confirmation. Over 7-year follow-up period 32 patients with KHE were registered in our center; in 90.6% of cases it was complicated by the development of KMS. The study was approved by the Independent Ethics Committee and Scientific Council of the Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology. In the most of patients the tumor was detected from birth (84%), in half of the cases (52%) hematological complications were diagnosed simultaneously with the detection of the tumor. Сommon local complications include joint contractures, destruction of bone tissue, and invasion of neighboring organs. The half of the patients had changes in the heart function: from minor cardiac pathology to congenital defects. In addition, there were clinical and instrumental changes associated with volume overload: an increase in liver size, myocardial hypertrophy. Despite the presence of clear clinical and laboratory characteristics of KMS, some cases require differential diagnosis with other vascular anomalies accompanied by thrombocytopenia and consumption coagulopathy – with congenital hemangiomas (rapidly involuting congenital hemangioma), multifocal lymphangioendotheliomatosis with thrombocytopenia, kaposiform lymphangiomatosis, venous malformations. The parents of the patients agreed to use the information, including photos of children, in scientific research and publications.
Hate Crimes: Evaluation of Lithuanian Courts’ Decisions in the Light of the Practice of the European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Bilius Mindaugas , Navickienė Žaneta , Velička Vilius
Published: October 2021

In this article, the authors analyse the practice of the Lithuanian national courts and the European Court of Human Rights in hate crime cases, provide insights into the synergy between the decisions made by these courts, and suggest further improvement actions. This research shows that proving the circumstances surrounding various forms of hatred is quite complex, often lacking a more comprehensive, in-depth definition of the totality of circumstances by taking account of the need for special knowledge, the identification of guilt, and the system and intensity of actions. There is often a divide between criminal liability and the possibility of other countermeasures, especially when examining cases related to hate speech. Court decisions draw attention to the fact that it is necessary to consider the totality of the data collected, not individual data or individual fragments of circumstances. Among other things, the decisions emphasize the ultima ratio principle: whether criminal liability is an adequate measure in cases of hate speech. The topical issues examined in the article draw attention to the collection of significant data and the organization of investigations of these crimes, issues relating to proof and the emerging practice of the European Court of Human Rights and the Supreme Court of the Republic of Lithuania in this category of cases, highlighting the two main problematic aspects: first, the determination of the totality of objective and subjective features and second, the fact of identifying a real threat.
Pandemics in Cyberspace – Empire in Search of a Sovereign?
Authors: Gábriš Tomáš , Hamuľák Ondrej
Published: October 2021

Traditionally, the idea of a sovereign is being connected either with an absolutist ruler (later replaced by “the people”) at the national level, or the nation-state at the international level – at least in the conditions of the Westphalian system created in 1648. Today, on the contrary, we are witnessing a “post-” situation in many respects – post-modernism, post-positivism, but also post-statism – basically being a sort of return to the pre-Westphalian system (see Ondrej Hamuľák, “Lessons from the ‘Constitutional Mythology’ or How to Reconcile the Concept of State Sovereignty with European Integration,” DANUBE: Law, Economics and Social Issues Review Vol. 6, No. 2 (2015); or Danuta Kabat-Rudnicka, “Autonomy or Sovereignty: the Case of the European Union,” International and Comparative Law Review Vol. 20, No. 2 (2020)). However, paternalistic views, prevailing especially in times of crisis and uncertainty, desperately search for a sovereign to lead us from the crises. With regard to cyberattacks and insecurity in the cyberspace this means an effort to subordinate cyberspace to state sovereignty. Still, given the limitations of traditional state-based monopolies of power and legislation, the state as an “analogue sovereign” shrinks in the digital cyberspace rather to a co-sovereign, co-ordinator, or in feudal terms a “senior” vis-à-vis their vassals. The actual ensuring of the tasks of state as a “digital sovereign” is namely often being entrusted to non-state (essentially private-owned) entities, under the threat of legal sanctions. The current situation of constructing “digital sovereignty” of traditional states or of the EU is thus marked by the necessity of cooperation between the state power and those non-state entities which are falling under its analogue jurisdiction.
Physicochemical Characterization of the Quality of Groundwater: Case Study of the Tebessa Plain (North-East Algeria)
Authors: Ghrieb Lassaad , Maoui Ammar , Boudjebieur Essia , Gueroui Yacine
Published: October 2021

In order to characterize the physicochemical quality of groundwater, and to examine the behavior of factors influencing water chemism in the Tebessa Plain, which is part of a semi-arid region located in the northeast of Algeria, physicochemical analyses were carried out on 32 water samples from the Mio-Plio quaternary water table. In the east of the study region, in the Djebissa area, most of the Triassic formations form a depression made up of masses of gypsiferous clay, where some outcrops of Triassic dolomites appear together with several blocks of carbonate rocks, torn off during the Aptian- Albian age. In the center and to the west of the plain, carbonate formations are represented by a significant layer of limestone marl and marl from the Cretaceous to Tertiary periods.

The results obtained showed that the quality of the water is influenced by the heterogeneity of the geological formations. The concentrations of chlorides, sulphates, and sodium are high in the eastern part of the study area, which can be explained by the impact of gypsum formations, confirmed by the Sr2+/Ca2+ ratio being greater than 3 ‰ for the majority of samples. In the wells of the Tebessa and Ain Chabro areas, the concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonates increase due to the predominance of carbonate formations of borders. The use of the statistical tool confirmed the evaporitic origin of the anions, especially in the east of the study region.
Recent Studies on the Properties of Pervious Concrete; A Sustainable Solution for Pavements and Water Treatment
Authors: Vijayalakshmi Ramalingam
Published: October 2021

Pervious concrete a sustainable solution with limited fines or no fines and interconnected voids, has many environmental benefits, such as reducing the stormwater run-off, improving the groundwater table, reducing water pollution, and mitigating urban heat island. Many research works have been done in Pervious Concrete (PC) by varying different parameters such as, types of aggregate, aggregate gradation, water-to-cement (w/c) ratio, cement-to-aggregate ratio, geopolymer binder, ultra-high strength Matrix and compaction techniques. All these parameters have direct influences on the strength, porosity, permeability, hydraulic efficiency and durability characteristics of PC. The main aim of this paper is to review the recent work carried out in pervious concrete under six different categories (i) Effect of binders, coarse aggregate, admixtures and fibers used in PC (ii) Mechanical and durability properties (iii) pore structure characteristics (iv) Study on Clogging Effect (v) Role of PC in the water purification process and (vi) Numerical model in PC.
Application of 3D Roughness Parameters for Wear Intensity Calculations
Authors: Bulaha N. , Linins O. , Avisane A.
Published: October 2021

In this paper, calculations of 3D parameter Vm (material volume) of surfaces with irregular roughness and comparison with experimental data were performed, with further application of this parameter in calculations of wear intensity. First, using Mountains Map software for profilometric measurements, 3D roughness processing and determination of material volume Vm at specific relative levels γ were performed. The next step was an additional analysis of the distribution of surface ordinates using a theoretical and experimental Laplace function. The given check confirmed that for mostly surfaces with irregular roughness the ordinate distribution corresponds to the normal Gaussian distribution law, but in cases when the asymmetry of the ordinate distribution function goes outside the permissible limits (|∆Ssk|> 10%), errors> 10 % occur. On this basis, the mathematical formula of the material volume Vm was derived, and the obtained calculations were compared with the measured values. The results showed that the calculated values of the parameter Vm were very close to the experimental data (|∆Vm|<10 %), while at the relative level γ=+3, errors occurred that was related to the deviation from the normal distribution law. It was concluded that the given parameter could be used in the calculations of linear wear intensity, knowing the relative level γ.
Identification of Damage on Stringers By the PSO Method
Authors: Marton Martin , Sokol Milan , Bekö Adrian , Maosen Cao
Published: October 2021

The paper employs the particle swarm optimization (PSO) method for the identification of damage to a stringer web. This method is inspired by a swarm of bees or flock of birds which look for a common solution. It is a heuristic method, that utilizes a particle as a problem-solving candidate. The location of this particle in the search space represents the configuration of all the variables to possible solutions of the problem. As the particle moves into the solution space, the values of the variables change. The particle is defined by a position vector and a velocity vector. The resulting direction of the particle is determined by three components i.e. (1) the moment or inertia, (2) autobiographical or cognitive information and (3) social interaction. The quality of the particle is evaluated by a comparison function.

In this study we tried to locate damage by using this method. The damage is represented by a rusted area on a stringer web, which was simulated as a change in the Young’s modulus. We used the modal calculation of the eigenfrequencies as an evaluation function.
Effect of Glazed Loggias on the Energy Efficiency of a T08b Prefabricated Dwelling – A Case Study
Authors: Ruhig Roman , Ruhigová Ema
Published: October 2021

The topic focuses on current solutions of interspaces in the renovation and modernization of residential buildings, the design of which is conditioned by the principles of sustainable development and construction. It concerns the integration of closed interspaces in renovated buildings from the 1950s to the 1980s. One example is the frequent glazing of loggias/balconies in original panel construction. The form of glazing of loggias and balconies is not regulated and is chosen by the apartment owners. For these reasons, the integration of interspaces in renovated buildings should be supported by research that will bring new insights about their effect on assessments of the energy performance of residential buildings and their effect on the architectural expression of facades. The paper compares alternatives for the integration of interspaces with an emphasis on the efferc of their orientation. The research should serve to help regulate the glazing of loggias in residential panel buildings.
The History of Formation and Anthropogenic Development of the Derkul River Floodplain (West Kazakhstan) in the Mid Holocene
Authors:   Institute of Soil Science and Agrochemistry, Siberian Branch of RAS, Gavrilov Denis A. , Mamirov Talgat B. ,   Margulan Institute of Archeology, Rastigeev Sergei A. ,   Institute of Nuclear Physics named after G.I. Budker, Siberian Branch of RAS, Parkhomchuk Vasiliy V. ,   Institute of Nuclear Physics named after G.I. Budker, Siberian Branch of RAS
Published: October 2021

The article presents the results of soil and archaeological study of the pedo-sedimentation sequence formed in the floodplain of the Derkul River (West Kazakhstan). The aim of the study was to reconstruct the stages of the alluvial sedimentogenesis alternating with relatively prolonged spans of soil formation, corresponding to the periods of floodplain agricultural development. It was established that floodplain sediment layer started to form as a result of stream sedimentation in the early Holocene; then this stage was followed by the relatively long-term soil formation period (5.6–3.8 cal. yr BC) resulting in a humus quasi-gleyic soil in the low floodplain (120–200 cm). The last period of soil formation (4.6–3.6 cal. yr BC) the floodplain was developed by man, which is displayed by the identified cultural horizon containing artifacts and having increased phosphorus content. At the end of the Subboreal period the next stage of alluvial sedimentation, started by the changed river hydrology regime, was found to be chronologically separated from the stage of stationary development of the floodplain by settled humans.
Reconstruction of the Settlement Levoberezhnoe Plan of the Bronze Age (South Ural, Russia)
Authors:   Bulashevich Institute of Geophysics, Ural Branch of RAS, Noskevich Vladislav V. , Fedorova Natalia V. ,   Bulashevich Institute of Geophysics, Ural Branch of RAS, Petrov Fedor N. ,   Chelyabinsk State Historical and Cultural Reserve "Arkaim"
Published: October 2021

In the Southern Urals in 2015–2019 research was conducted on the fortified settlement of the Bronze Age Levoberezhnoe (Sintashta II). An asphalt road was drawn through the settlement, during the construction of which about a third of the monument’s area was destroyed. Excavations of the monument have been carried out since 2015. It has been established that the settlement is multi-layered; it functioned in the Late Bronze Age from the turn of the 3rd–2nd millennium BC until the last quarter of the second millennium BC. Detailed magnetic and topographic surveys were performed on the territory that remaining survived the construction of the road. The location of the external moat was reliably determined by linear positive magnetic anomalies. The base of the outer wall of the settlement had a thickness of about 4 m, the width of the outer moat was 2–2.5 m. It was also possible to accurately localize a number of walls of buildings. The settlement had a rectangular shape, inside there were 26 dwellings. As a result of a comprehensive analysis of the data and aerial photographs of the last century, the layout of the entire settlement was reconstructed.
Experimental Modeling of Large Diameter Holes Based on Materials of Bronze Age Stone Axes
Authors:   Nizhny Tagil State Social-Pedagogical Institute (branch of Russian State Professional-Pedagogical University), Serikov Yuri B. , Grekhov Sergey V. ,   Secondary School № 1
Published: October 2021

In the Urals, there are more than a hundred products with large-diameter holes, some of which are made using a copper tube. Experiments on hollow drilling in the expedition of S. A. Semenov have shown great complexity of this method. In experiments on drilling it was planned to identify labor costs for the manufacture of copper tube, and also reveal various aspects of drilling techniques. The article presents the results of experiments on drilling different types of stone (soapstone, marble, serpentine and jade) with a copper tube. Experiments have shown that drilling with a brace is 1.5 times more effective than drilling with a borer. And using a copper tube as a drill increased the speed of making holes by 4–7 times. It also turned out that the abrasive used is very important for drilling efficiency. The most effective abrasive was emery, whose deposits are known in the southern Urals. The results obtained allow the authors to establish with great accuracy what drills and with application of what equipment stone axes of Bronze Age were drilled. A comparison of the experimental drills with bronze age drills shows that drilling with a copper tube was often, but not always, performed using a special machine tool. Labor-intensive making stone axes with large diameter holes especially made of strong row materials attest about high social status of their owners.