bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taking Detours through the “Transcendental Dialectic”. The Principles of Homogeneity, Specification, and Continuity
Authors: Meer Rudolf
Published: September 2019

In a crucial paragraph (KrV, A 663-664 / B 691-692) of the first part of the “Appendix to the Transcendental Dialectic”, Kant discusses the specific status of the principles of homogeneity, specification, and continuity. In doing so, he refers to an already proven argument and thus to other passages of the Critique of Pure Reason. In search of this argument the “Transcendental Analytic” but in particular the “first book” of the “Transcendental Dialectic” turn out to be possible reference points. Although this contextualisation demands further systematic and editorial reflections, it also allows the clarification of the status of the principles and their justification in relation to a subjective deduction. Kant offers with the subjective deduction, as introduced in the “Preface” (of the first edition of the Critique of Pure Reason) and again in the “first book” of the “Transcendental Dialectic”, a first argumentative strategy, which differs from the objective one but provides “some objective validity” (KrV, A 664 / B 692; Kant, 1998, p. 602) and therefore has systematic importance for the principles of homogeneity, specification, and continuity. My aim is to offer immanent strategies for a justification of the principles of homogeneity, specification, and continuity in the framework of the Critique of Pure Reason.
Deduction of Freedom vs Deduction of Experience in Kant’s Metaphysics
Authors: Semyonov Valeriy E.
Published: September 2019

My aim is to demonstrate the specificities and differences between transcendental deduction of concepts and deduction of the fundamental principles of pure practical reason in Kant’s metaphysics. First of all it is necessary to examine Kant’s attitude to the metaphysics of his time and the problem of its new justification. Kant in his philosophy explicated not only the theoretical world of cognition, but also the practical world of freedom. Accordingly, the fundamental means of proving metaphysics’ claims are the deduction of pure concepts of understanding (deduction of experience) and the deduction of the principles of pure practical reason (deduction of freedom). The underlying premises of the Kantian project of reviving metaphysics, “the Copernican Turn”, the critical methods and basic principles of transcendental (formal) idealism also provide the methodological basis of transcendental deduction, a new method of proving the claims of metaphysics in various spheres of human being. Proceeding from the above, I analyse the essence, structure and the peculiarities as well as the differences between the deduction of experience and the deduction of freedom. I single out the following features of the two types of deduction. First, theoretical use of reason is aimed at objects while practical reason is aimed at noumena, the foundations of will and freedom. Second, the transcendental deduction of space and time, as well as the deduction of categories, is preceded by transcendental reduction, which is absent in the deduction of freedom. Third, Kant orients the methodological movement of deductions in opposite directions. Theoretical deduction proceeds from pure forms of sensible intuition to concepts of understanding and thence to fundamental principles. Practical deduction proceeds from a priori principles to the concepts of the metaphysics of morals and thence to moral feelings. Fourth, deduction in the theoretical sphere forbids speculative reason to go beyond experience. Practical deduction has pointed to the intelligible world and has proved its “legitimacy”.
Kant on Human Dignity: Autonomy, Humanity, and Human Rights
Authors: Fasoro Sunday Adeniyi
Published: September 2019

This paper explores the new frontier within Kantian scholarship which suggests that Kant places so much special importance on the value of rational nature that the supreme principle of morality and the concept of human dignity are both grounded on it. Advocates of this reading argue that the notion of autonomy and dignity should now be considered as the central claim of Kant’s ethics, rather than the universalisation of maxims. Kant’s ethics are termed as repugnant for they place a high demand on the universalisation of maxims as a universal moral principle. As a result, they argue that there is an urgent need to rescue Kant’s ethics from the controversies surrounding maxims and universalisability, and the best way to rescue his ethics is by “leaving deontology behind”. It must be left behind because the categorical imperative is not needed in order to rescue Kant’s ethics, as deontology is often overrated. Consequently, the highest duties of the human being are to ensure that his fellow human beings enjoy unhindered autonomy and receive the honour that their dignity duly deserves, as well as to look after their welfare and treat them with respect, regardless of their dispositions. I review recent literature to appraise this new frontier within Kantian scholarship. I also explore the works of philosophers, such as Herman, Korsgaard, Wood, Höffe, and, specifically, Hill, on Kant’s conception of human dignity in relation to its conception as autonomy, humanity, and the source of human rights.
The ‘cool war’ in the Baltic Sea Region: consequences and future scenarios..
Authors: Khudoley Konstantin K.
Published: September 2019

The relevance of this topic is determined by the Baltic region playing a special role in the current confrontation between Russia and the West, which is most accurately defined by the term ‘cool war’. Russia borders on the EU and NATO in that region. In this study, I aim to demonstrate the impact of the ‘cool war’ on international relations in the region and explain why the preservation of the status quo is the most likely scenario. I conclude that, in recent years, a certain regrouping has occurred in the region: there has been a stepping-up on the activities of the US and NATO, whereas the influence of EU institutions has decreased. A deep rift has developed between Russia and all other states in the region. There are five possible mid-term scenarios, ranging from outright confrontation to effective cooperation: an armed conflict, a dramatic aggravation of the current tensions without an armed conflict, the continuation of the ‘cool war’, the normalisation of relations, and a transition to large-scale cooperation. I argue that the ‘cool war’ scenario is the most likely, and the other four belong to the realm of the politically possible. Although the improvement of relations with the other states in the region is not very probable, Russia will benefit from taking every possible step towards it.
Economic and geopolitical aspects of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline
Authors: Zhiznin Stanislav Z.
Published: September 2019

The Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project (NS 2) along the bottom of the Baltic Sea is aimed to increase gas supply from Russia to Germany and other EU countries. It serves mutual economic interests: the predicted growth in gas demand in the EU markets and the need to strengthen the energy security of the EU. The implementation of the NS 2 project is complicated by the need to allow for the EU energy legislation and by the expanding influence of geopolitical factors on EU – Russia cooperation, including those stemming from the aggressive US energy diplomacy seeking to prevent the project from being successful and thus promoting the geopolitical interests of Washington. In this work, we aim to study the economic and geopolitical stances taken by the project’s supporters and opponents and to evaluate the prospects of NS 2. To this end, we carry out a factor analysis and employ the methods of economic, statistical and geopolitical analysis.We conclude that the project is high on the agenda of both EU-Russia economic relations and world politics. The project has good prospects despite counteraction from its geopolitical opponents. This is explained by it having a decided economic edge over alternative options for the EU. The launch of NS 2 may contribute both to providing the energy security of the EU and to easing the military tensions between NATO and Russia in the Baltic region. The need to ensure the reliable operation of gas supply infrastructure makes any military conflict in the region impossible.
In pursuit of an innovation development trajectory of the Kaliningrad region
Authors: Mikhaylova Anna A.
Published: September 2019

Amid growing inter-state competition, national innovation policies are increasingly seeking to promote the development of regional innovation systems to intensify innovative processes and to enhance the economic competitiveness of territories. An efficient regional innovation policy requires a territorial adaptive approach to the development of mechanisms for innovating socio-spatial systems. These mechanisms should take into account the specific features and inalienable resources of territories. Whereas regional innovation systems are becoming increasingly acknowledged in public administration as versatile, the stage of a system life cycle, which is an equally important factor, often escapes managerial attention. In this article, I analyse the innovation system of the Kaliningrad region at its inception. The Kaliningrad case is of considerable interest for a study into the patterns and characteristics of the governance of innovation systems — a management paradigm aimed to promote regional development during a change in their functioning mode. In this work, I analyse the current structure of the Kaliningrad regional innovation system, of which some elements date back to the Soviet period, paying particular attention to the subsequent change in the framework conditions. I show that a new innovation trajectory requires taking into account the economic and geographical position of the region, its level of socio-economic development and economic specialization. My findings could contribute to both improving the national policy on managing innovation processes in Russian regions and developing the concept of regional innovation systems as regards research into their life cycle stages.
Polish-Russian relations as reflected in the programmes of right-wing political parties in Poland: a quantitative and qualitative analysis
Authors: Żęgota Krzysztof
Published: September 2019

Programmes of political parties are an important element of public discourse. In this article, I present the results of research aimed at defining the place of Russia and Polish-Russian relations in the programmes of several Polish right-wing political groups. I attempt an overview of the political programmes of the right-wing parties as regards their principal features, internal structure, and central postulates. Content analysis shows that relations with Russia are an impor tant element in most political programmes proposed by Poland’s major right-wing political groups. Based on a qualitative analysis, I distinguish between parties that postulate a determined and assertive policy towards Russia, parties committed to a neutral position on Russia, and those that seek the improvement and pragmatisation of Polish-Russian relations. There are two important conclusions from the qualitative analysis. Firstly, international relations have a pronounced influence on the programmes of political parties. Secondly, as to the right-wing parties considered in the Polish political discourse as pro-Russian (the National Revival of Poland, the National Radical Camp), they are either far from being pro-Russian or Russia is quite low on their agenda.
Digital World Communication аnd Translation
Authors: Folaron Debbie
Published: September 2019

The introduction of digital computers, information and communication technologies (ICTs), and the Internet/Web has broadened the scope of communication globally in ways unprecedented in human history. The “digital world” implies more than the technical and instrumental aspects and usage of technology; it equally involves our tangible human social engagement and interface with the tools and technologies themselves. The relevance of digital studies to translation studies, and vice versa, is substantial. Both fields intrinsically deal with language, information, and communication and are inextricably linked to technology. After a brief introduction, the article highlights first the essential informational and communicational foundation of technology development that intertwined with histories of translation technolo­gy. The convergence of these multiple histories has led to today’s 24/7 digital infrastructure. It then considers the social and cultural facets of the digital world, presenting research areas in digital studies that can be explored in relation to translation studies. While the existing analytical and critical approaches to researching translation can arguably be extended and transposed to include elements of the contemporary digital context, there are also compelling and legitimate reasons for contextualizing translation within the broader, global communica­tion universe, positioning it wholly within the digital sphere.
Embedding imagology in Translation Studies
Authors: van Doorslaer Luc
Published: September 2019

Imagology, the study of national and cultural images as represented in textual discourse, is a fruitful approach for disciplines dealing with textual change, such as translation studies. Both imagology and translation studies have gradually extended their area of research, which has revealed growing commonalities. Journalistic texts have for instance been included in research that was previously almost exclusively dealing with literary discourse. Moreover interest in imagological research, sometimes related to the distribution of a promoted national or cultural self-image, has now also grown in countries outside of Europe. Future perspec­tives for findings on image spread through translation are offered through collaboration with existing research in sociology and psychology.
Translation of sociolect texts
Authors: Kharitonova Elena
Published: September 2019

A moment's reflection suffices to convince one that no language is homogeneous, being represented by a set of language variants or language existential forms, reflecting the hetero­geneous character of the national culture. Notwithstanding variable nature of language, lin­guistic theorizing has been mostly based on standardized languages forms, rather than on natu­ral speech dialects. The present research addresses the fundamental issue of variability within a language and aims at studying the specific fragment of the Russian language of the XXth centu­ry — Soviet camp sociolect within the frameworks of contrastive sociolectology. Sociolect nature of the source text is viewed as one of the factors increasing the degree of text untranslatability. The author dwells on the nature of adaptation interventions, which a trans­lator needs to perform to render the specificity of the Soviet camp social dialect in English. The analysis of the ways in which translators processed the source texts under consideration reveals the twofold strategy aimed at maintaining a proper balance between replicating the sociolect text specificity and making the translation readable to the target recipients. Combin­ing explanatory translation, loose translation, occasional equivalents with loan translation translators achieve clarity of the translation, preserving at the same time apparent non-nativeness of the target text, which helps to avoid leveling the sociolect nature of the source texts.
Antibiosis effects of rice carrying Bph14 and Bph15 on the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens
Authors: Qiu Liangmiao , Wang Wuqi , Shi Longqing , Liu Qiquan , Zhan Zhixiong
Published: September 2019

The brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, is the most destructive insect pest in rice production worldwide. The development and cultivation of BPH-resistant varieties is the most economical and efficient strategy to overcome the destruction caused by BPH. In this study, the modified bulk seedling test method was used to identify the BPH resistance level and host feeding choice of rice lines of Liangyou8676 (Bph14/Bph15), Bph68S (Bph14/Bph15), RHT (Bph3), Fuhui676, and TN1 on BPH. Meanwhile, the population, survival and emergence rate, developmental duration, honeydew excretion, female ratio and brachyptery ratio of adults were used as indicators to detect the antibiosis effects of the different rice lines. The results showed that the resistance levels of Rathu Heenati (RHT), Bph68S, Liangyou8676, Fuhui676, and TN1 to BPH were HR, R, MR, S and HS, respectively. The host choice implied that BPH was more inclined to feeding on rice plants with a lower resistance. An analysis of the antibiosis activity of rice lines RHT, BPh68S, and Liangyou8676 carrying resistance genes indicated a significant reduction in the population growth rate, survival and emergence rate of BPH nymphs, significant delay in the developmental duration of nymphs, reduced honeydew excretion of females, decreased female ratio, and a decreased brachyptery ratio of females and males, when compared with rice carrying no BPH-resistant genes.
Application of GIS in the Assessment of Groundwater Quality in the Yenagoa Watershed of the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria
Authors: Karo Oboshenure Kingsley , Egobueze Francis Emeka , Egirani Davidson E.
Published: September 2019

The spatial variations in groundwater quality in parts of the Yenagoa watershed (YWS) in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria has been investigated using Geographic Information System (GIS). An understanding of the factors responsible for groundwater vulnerability could facilitate the use of geographic information system in the control and management of groundwater quality. This study is due to the fact that the spatial distribution maps of groundwater quality in the YWS obtained by GIS modeling are not documented. The quality of groundwater accounts for the environmental and human health status of the residents in the YWS. Therefore, twenty (20) water samples obtained from shallow boreholes were analyzed for physicochemical properties. The physicochemical parameters such as pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids, sulphate, nitrate, sodium, chloride, magnesium, total hardness and iron contents were measured using standard laboratory procedure. Except for the iron content, the results obtained from the physicochemical analyses were within limits of the World Health Organization Standards for drinking water. These results were transformed into spatial distribution maps using GIS modeling and interpretation. The Index Overlay method and Inverse Distance weighted method form component parts of the GIS modeling used in the generation of the spatial distribution maps for each physicochemical parameter. These modeled results were related to the World Health Organization (WHO) Standard for drinking water. The maps generated from GIS modeling indicated zones that were suitable for groundwater extraction as opposed to zones unsuitable for groundwater extraction. In conclusion, 55% of the boreholes in the Yenagoa watershed were affected by high iron content.
Growth and Volume Estimates of Teak (Tectona grandis Linn F.) in Kanya Forest Plantation, Kebbi State, Nigeria
Authors: Dantani A. , Shamaki S. B. , Gupa M. A. , Zagga A. I. , Abubakar B. , Mukhtar R. B. , Sa’idu M.
Published: September 2019

This study was conducted in order to estimate growth and volume production of Teak (Tectona grandis) in Kanya Forest Plantation, Nigeria. The plantation was divided in to six strata-based age classes (A=38, B=37, C=36, D=35, E=34, F=28, years). Five plots were randomly selected from each stratum. Trees within each plot were enumerated and measured. Variables measured include total height, diameter at the base, middle, top, and diameter at the breast height were taken from 30 temporary sampled plots of 25x25 m approximately from the center, 180 dominant trees were selected from 712 trees. Descriptive statistic was used to summarize the results while inferential statistic (correlation) was used to establish relationship growth and yield variables. Basal area and volume of sampled trees were computed using Excel as well as scatter plots, correlation analysis was achieved using SPSS statistical package version 20. The results of growth and yield values obtained from the dominant trees are (B=249.312 m3/ha, D=196.128 m3/ha, F=134.976 m3/ha, C=119.328 m3/ha, E=100.320 m3/ ha and A=86.976 m3/ha). The results showed that B was (37 years) the best and A (38 years) was the poorest. The results of correlation showed positive relationships with most of the tree growth and yield characteristics but negative relationships exist between age and some parameters that is to say as the age increases those parameters are decreasing.
Assessment of Chainsaw Milling Enterprise in Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Sambe L. N.
Published: September 2019

The paucity of information on chainsaw milling enterprise has contributed to poor planning and development of timber resources in Nigeria. This study has accessed the marketing efficiency and structure with a view of evaluating its potential contribution to the livelihoods and economic development of Benue State. Multistage sampling technique and purposeful sampling technique were applied to determine the study sample which was drawn from the three geopolitical zones in the State; Zone A, Zone B and Zone C. Applying a sampling intensity of 30%, seven (7) Local Government Areas (LGAs) were sampled from the 23 LGAs of the State for the study.  Based on this arrangement 79 chainsaw millers were selected and interviewed on the trading activities. Data were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequency distribution. Also gross margin analysis, marketing margin, marketing efficiency, Analysis of variance, T-test Statistics, Index of market concentration (IMC), Rate of return on investment (RORI) and Gross Ratio (GR) were used in the determining the profitability and the efficiency of chainsaw millers trading efficiency in the study area.  The study revealed that the trade is male dominated having 100% of the respondents as males. Similarly, the indigenous groups dominated the chainsaw milling and with the Tiv having the majority of (65.8%), this was followed by the Idoma (13.7%), Igede, (12.5%) and Igbo (5.5%), Igala and Sura 1.4% each. The study identified 18 timber species that were marketed in the study area and that 2,411, 37,733, and 69,492 volumes were marketed in zones A, B and C respectively.  The result of the gross margin and market efficiency showed that that the chainsaw milling activities are profitable and efficient.  It revealed the mean monthly gross margin (GM) of 39,688.00, 128,730, and 84,000 with corresponding RORI of 84.19, 43.93, and 1.80 for the chainsaw millers. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) of GMs were significant with 0.013. The Total Revenue and Total Variable Cost (TVC) equally showed significance with 0.045, 0.000, 0.000. The IMC, Gini coefficient of 0.1891, 0.3218 and 0.1829, indicated that the concentration was low with income inequality but with a competitive market.
Application of Veterinary Cytogenetics in Domestic Animals: A Review
Authors: Yahaya Muhammad Sanusi , Salisi Mohd Shahrom , Isa Nur Mahiza Md. , Haron Abd Wahid , Peter Innocent Damudu
Published: September 2019

Cytogenetics is the study of chromosomes; their structure and properties, chromosome behavior during cell division, their influence on traits and factors which cause changes in chromosomes.  Veterinary cytogenetics is the application of cytogenetics to clinical problems that occur in animal production. It has been applied to understand problems such as infertility and its types, embryonic and fetal death, abnormality in sexual and somatic development and hybrid sterility and also prenatal sex determination and other forms of chromosomal abnormalities. These are achieved through conventional and banded karyotyping techniques and molecular cytogenetic techniques. Although conventional techniques are still useful and very widely applied, the nature of cytogenetics has gradually changed as a result of advances achieved in the molecular cytogenetic techniques for example fluorescent in situ hybridization and array-based techniques. These changes are evident in both molecular diagnostics and basic research. The combination of conventional and molecular cytogenetics has given rise to high resolution techniques which have enabled the study of fundamental questions regarding biological processes. It enables the study of inherited syndromes, the mechanisms of tumorigenesis at molecular level, genome organization and the determination of chromosome homologies between species. It allows the ease with which animals are selected in breeding programs and other important aspects of animal production. In this paper we discussed a number of techniques employed in cytogenetics and their methodologies, and recommend where future focus should be for the benefits of animal production.
Relationship of the Self-perception of Lifestyle with Level of Physical Activity in People with and without Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Perez-Avelino Briseida Mayel , Padilla-Raygoza Nicolás , Benitez-Guerrero Verónica , Padilla María Luisa Sánchez , Beltrán-Campos Vicente , García-Campos María de Lourdes
Published: September 2019

Objective: To determine the relationship of the perception of lifestyle with the level of physical activity in people with type 2 diabetes and without type 2 diabetes.

Study Design: Analytical cross-sectional observational study in Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico.

Methodology: Sample composed of 100 people with type 2 diabetes and 100 people without type 2 diabetes, the lifestyle questionnaire and IPAQ questionnaire were used. Descriptive statistics were calculated for sociodemographic variables; it was calculated Chi-square test and Odds Ratio.  To demonstrate the statistical significance of results, the value of P was set at .05. Statistical analysis was performed in STATA 13.0 ®.

Results: In patients with Type 2 Diabetes predominated females, married, who never went school and elementary and BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2; among patients without Type 2 Diabetes, predominant males, singles, went school or university, BMI ≥25 kg/m2; no relationship was found between lifestyle perception and level of physical activity in adults with type 2 diabetes (X² = 0.0022 gl 1 P = .96) neither it was found a significant relationship between lifestyle perception and level of physical activity in adults without type 2 diabetes (X² = 5.23 gl 1 P = .02 RM = 2.85 95% CI = 0.80 to 10.4).

Conclusion: The results show that self-perception of lifestyle and physical activity is different in people with less age, more schooling, males.
Geotechnical Evaluation of Road Pavement Failure along the Awotan-Akufo Road, Oyo State Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Kazeem Apanpa, A. , Hameed Olayiwola, , Ademola Anjonrin,
Published: September 2019

In order to access the cause(s) of road failure and proffer preventive measures for the future reconstruction of the Awotan-Akufo road, southwestern Nigeria, the geotechnical engineering properties of the subgrade soil, asphalt pavement thicknesses, drainage and traffic load were evaluated. Soil samples were collected from test pits 1 m deep and at an interval of 50 m and subjected to geotechnical analyses in accordance to AASTHO specification. The grain size distribution revealed that 70% of the entire samples from Awotan-Lifeforte and Adaba failed sections along Akufo road contain amount of fines more than 35% passing through sieve No. 200. The Natural Moisture Content range from 5.73 - 20.21% (Awotan-Lifeforte section) and the entire samples from Adaba failed sections have high natural moisture content ranging from 16.20 - 23.20%. From Atterberg limit test, the Liquid limit of 12 - 56% (Awotan-Lifeforte section) and 26.00 - 40.00% (Adaba Section) were obtained. The Plastic Limit and Plasticity Index of the soils ranges from 8.43 to 49.10% and 1.01 to 7.0% (Awotan-Lifeforte section), and 23.10 - 35.50% and 1.50 - 7.10% (Adaba Section) respectively. Linear shrinkage varies from 0.80 to 9.60% and from 3.10 to 8.80% for Awotan-Lifeforte and Adaba sections, respectively. The Maximum Dry Density of the soils ranged from 1.625 - 1.835 mg/m3 at Optimum Moisture Content of 13.4 - 17.3% (Lifeforte-Awotan section), and MDD of 1.752 - 1.975mg/m3 at Optimum Moisture Content of 13.4-17.3% (Adaba section). The unsoaked California Bearing Ratio are 30.08, 70.14, 39.08%, and the soaked California Bearing Ratio values are 26.17, 11.41, 33.41% (Lifeforte-Awotan section) respectively. At Adaba section of the road, the unsoaked California Bearing Ratio is 3.46, 87.70, 70.14%, and soaked California Bearing Ratio values are 3.42, 32.56, 39.83%. The average asphalt pavement thicknesses around Awotan-Lifeforte section range from 0.60 - 1.10 inches, and that of Adaba section range from 0.57 to 1.46 inches. The study concluded that the road pavement subgrade is silty clay and the geotechnical properties rated below the specifications of the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing at some failed portions. Asphalt pavement thicknesses are grossly inadequate and far below NAPA 2007 recommendation. As such the road cannot withstand the heavily loaded trucks that ply it on regular basis. All aforementioned contributed to the untimely failure of the road.
Annual Effective Dose and Lifetime Cancer Risks Due to Natural Radioactivity in Hand –Dug Well Water of Tai Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Ononugbo C. P. , Ndodo N. N.
Published: September 2019

The presence of radionuclide in water poses a number of health hazards, especially when the radionuclide is deposited in the human body through drinking water. The aim of this study was to evaluate natural radioactivity and its associated health risk in hand dug well water of Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria by means of gamma spectroscopy techniques and radiation models. The well water was collected from five selected coastal communities of Tai and chemically treated by adding nitric acid and then pre-concentrated further by evaporating to certain levels and kept in marineli beaker properly sealed for 28 days, after which was counted with NaI(Ti) detector. The mean values of specific activity concentration of 40K, 226Ra and 228Ra(232Th) were  25.90, 19.21 and 18.50 Bql-1 respectively. The annual effective doses for different age categories were estimated taking into consideration the ingested dose conversion factors as well as their yearly average water consumption. The average annual effective dose estimated for infants, children, teenagers and adult population were 0.115, 0.027, 0.071 and 0.013 Svy-1 respectively. The annual effective dose due to ingestion of the sampled water were above the recommended values by WHO, IAEA and UNSCEAR for the age brackets. The paper presents the overview of the techniques used and the summary of the findings. The result of this study gives the radiological baseline data for effective monitoring of the study area.
Microbiological Compliance Assessment of Imported Frozen Fishes and Local Fresh Chilled Fishes Marketed in Northern Benin (West Africa)
Authors: Latifou A. Belco , Toko I. Imorou , Tougan P. U. , Djibril L. , Gouda A. I. , Attakpa E. Y. , Chikou A.
Published: September 2019

Since the food safety and the foodborne diseases are becoming a main health concern in developing countries, the aim of this study is to determine, in accordance with the specific international standards, the compliance of the main frozen imported fish and fresh chilled fishes marketed and consumed in Northern Benin. From December 18 to March 5, 2019, the microbiological quality of the two main imported frozen fish (Scomber scombrus and Trachurus trachurus) and the two main freshwater fish locally produced (Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus) and marketed in Benin were analysed in accordance with ISO standards specific to each germ counted as Colony-Forming Units (CFU). The Mesophilic aerobic flora and fecal coliforms loads in fresh chilled fishes (256,577 and 349.6 CFU, respectively) are significantly higher (p<0.05) than in the frozen fish (143,620 and 157.0 CFU, respectively) marketed in the northern Benin. T. trachurus seems more contaminated (p<0.01) by these germs than S. scombrus, and O. niloticus showed significantly higher loads (p<0.01) of these bacteria than the C. gariepinus. No salmonella colony was observed in all the samples, and in the fresh and frozen fish, Staphylococcus aureus (11.27 and  10.77 CFU, respectively) and Sulfite-Reducing Anaerobes (0.38 and  0.38 CFU, respectively) loads showed no significant differences (p>0,05) both between origin and between species. However,  the microbiological quality of all fish both imported frozen  fishes and fresh fishes analysed during this study have not comply with the requirements of the standard AFNOR (2000) specific to frozen fish and fresh chilled fish. They are so classified as “unsatisfactory hygienic” due to their very high fecal coliforms loads. It would therefore be interesting to raise awareness among stakeholders in the marketing system for fish products on good hygiene practices and the HACCP approach.
Human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived blood products: state of the art and future directions
Authors: Hansen Marten , von Lindern Marieke , van den Akker Emile , Varga Eszter
Published: September 2019

In vitro cultured blood cells for transfusion purposes provide a safe alternative to donor blood, particularly for patients who require recurrent transfusions, and can be used as carriers of therapeutic molecules. In vitro derivation of hematopoietic cell types from human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) allows for a constant, well‐defined production pipeline for such advanced therapeutic and medicinal products. Application of selected iPSC‐derived hematopoietic stem cells and hematopoietic effector cells in transplantation/transfusions would avoid the risk of alloimmunization and blood‐borne diseases, as well as enable the production of enhanced blood cells expressing molecules that enforce blood cell function or endow novel therapeutic properties. Here, we discuss the state of the art approaches to produce erythroid, megakaryoid and myeloid cells from iPSCs and the biological and technical hurdles that we need to overcome prior to therapeutic application.
Factors that influence the androgen receptor cistrome in benign and malignant prostate cells
Authors: Copeland Ben T. , Du Juan , Pal Sumanta K. , Jones Jeremy O.
Published: September 2019

The androgen receptor (AR) plays key roles in the development of prostate tissue and the development and progression of prostate cancer (PC). AR guides cytodifferentiation and homeostasis in benign luminal epithelial cells; however, in PC, AR instead drives the uncontrolled proliferation of these cells. This ‘AR malignancy shift’ (AMS) is a central event in tumorigenesis. Using a ChIP‐seq approach in primary human tissues, cell lines, and mouse models, we demonstrate that the AMS occurs in every sample analyzed, suggesting that it is necessary for PC development. Using molecular and genetic techniques, we demonstrate that forkhead box (FOX)A1, HOXB13, GATA2, and c‐JUN are involved in the regulation of the AMS. AR‐binding sites (ARBS) are enriched for FOX, HOX, and GATA motifs in PC cells but not for c‐JUN motifs in benign cells. We show that the SPOP mutation commonly found in localized PCs can cause the AMS but is not transformative on its own and must be coupled to another mutation to transform cells. We show that the AMS occurs in mouse models of PC as well and that chronic low T, which is associated with increased PC risk and aggressiveness in humans, also causes the AMS in mice. We have discovered a previously unrecognized, fundamental tenet of PC, one which explains how and why AR signaling is different in cancer and benign cells. Our work has the potential to be used to stratify patients with localized PC for specific treatments. Furthermore, our work suggests that the AMS is a novel target for the treatment and/or prevention of PC.
Liquid‐Phase Hot Deformation to Enhance Thermoelectric Performance of n‐type Bismuth‐Telluride‐Based Solid Solutions
Authors: Wu Yehao , Yu Yuan , Zhang Qi , Zhu Tiejun , Zhai Renshuang , Zhao Xinbing
Published: September 2019

Bismuth‐telluride‐based solid solutions are the best commercial thermoelectric materials near room temperature. For their n‐type polycrystalline compounds, the maximum figures of merit (zTs) are often less than 1.0 due to the degraded carrier mobility resulting from the loss of texture. Herein, a liquid‐phase hot deformation procedure, during which the Bi2(Te,Se)3 ingots are directly hot deformed with the extrusion of liquid eutectic phase, is performed to enhance the thermoelectric performance of n‐type Bi2(Te,Se)3 alloys. The deformation‐induced dynamic recrystallization is remarkably suppressed due to the reduction of nucleation sites and the release of deformation stress by liquid phase, contributing to a weakened carrier scattering and enhanced carrier mobility. The liquid eutectic phase also facilitates the rotation of grains and enhanced (000l) texture, further improving carrier mobility. In addition, the dense dislocations and lattice distortion introduced into the matrix reduce the lattice thermal conductivity. As a result, a high zT value of 1.1 at 400 K is obtained, about 75% increment over the normal one‐step hot deformed alloys. This work not only demonstrates a simple and efficient technique for achieving superior n‐type Bi2Te3‐based materials, but also elucidates the important role of liquid eutectic phase in hot deformation.
Supplemented howler monkeys eat less wild fruits, but do not change their activity budgets
Authors: Back Janaína Paula , Bicca‐Marques Júlio César
Published: September 2019

Research on the influence of food supplementation on primate behavior has focused on terrestrial and semiterrestrial species. Its effects on highly arboreal species are poorly known. We assessed the influence of food supplementation on the feeding behavior and activity budget of four adult female and two adult male brown howler monkeys (Alouatta guariba clamitans) belonging to two groups (JA and RO) that inhabited periurban forest fragments in southern Brazil. We used the “focal‐animal” method during 6–8 full days per month from March to August 2017 (916 h of observation) to record the behavior of the study subjects. The feeding events of the focal individual were recorded using the “all occurrences” method. The supplementation was unevenly distributed during the day and accounted for 5–6% of all feeding events of male and female howlers, respectively. JA always received fruit in a platform, whereas RO had access to fruits and processed foods on roofs and directly from humans. The mean biomass of wild foods ingested by each adult per day was >300% higher than the ingested biomass of supplemented foods (females: 395 vs. 109 g/day; males: 377 vs. 120 g/day), but the ingestion rate of supplemented foods was ca. 400% higher than that of wild foods (females: 17 vs. 4 g/min; males: 19 vs. 5 g/min). The activity budgets of females and males were dominated by resting (66–72%) followed by feeding (18–14%), moving (12–11%), and socializing (2%). We found that food supplementation reduced the ingestion of wild fruits, but it did not affect the howlers’ need to ingest a given amount of leaves per day and the time spent resting, feeding, moving, and socializing.
Theory of mind performance in younger and older adults with elevated autistic traits
Authors: Stewart Gavin R. , Wallace Gregory L. , Cottam Martha , Charlton Rebecca A.
Published: September 2019

Little is known about the impact of aging with Autism Spectrum Disorder on theory of mind (ToM). While ToM difficulties appear to abate with age in older autistic populations, this has yet to be explored in the Broad Autism Phenotype (BAP). The current study examined ToM performance among younger (n= 49, aged 18–46) and older adults (n= 47, aged 60–91) who were classified as on the BAP (youngern= 18; oldern= 21) or not (youngern= 31; oldern= 26) using the BAP Questionnaire. ToM was assessed using the ecologically valid Strange Stories Film Task (SSFT) and the dynamic Happé–Frith Triangle Animations task (TA). A 2 × 2 analysis of variance examined the effects of autistic traits (BAP vs. non‐BAP) and age (young vs. old). For both SSFT and TA, results showed autistic trait main effects on task performance (non‐BAP > BAP). Age main effects were observed for some but not all metrics on TA (younger better than older), with no differences in SSFT. An interaction of autistic traits and age was observed in TA Intentionality, with younger non‐BAP and younger BAP performing similarly but older non‐BAP performing better than older BAP. Results show that younger and older adults with elevated autistic traits show poorer ToM performance. Despite ToM difficulties being common in later life in the general population, this effect was not observed when using a ToM task designed to reflect real‐world scenarios. However, results suggest that autistic traits and age could interact to increase risk for poor ToM performance in older adults who endorse elevated autistic traits.Autism Res2020, 13: 751–762. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

The behaviors and characteristics commonly found in autism spectrum disorders have been linked to differences in understanding social situations. Similar difficulties have also been found in older age. We assessed social understanding in younger and older adults from the general population. Both younger and older adults who report more autism‐like characteristics experience more difficulties with social understanding. However, few differences were found between younger and older adults.
Primary school students’ perspectives on questions that bridge science and religion: Findings from a survey study in England
Authors: Billingsley Berry , Abedin Manzoorul , Nassaji Mehdi
Published: September 2019

This article describes the development of a questionnaire to discover primary school students’ perceptions of science, religion and the relationships between them on a range of topics that are known as Big Questions. The questionnaire was administered in 16 primary schools in England with over 750 students aged 10–11. The findings indicate that students in this age group have begun to consider how science and religion relate and that while there is a diversity of positions, a significant proportion perceived science and religion to conflict. Analysis of responses also indicated that primary school students’ epistemic insight was limited in relation to their understanding of the nature of science and, in particular, the idea that science has limitations. The basis and potential consequences of such views are considered and recommendations for teaching practice are presented, together with ideas for future research. It is anticipated that the study will inform teachers and curriculum planners developing approaches and guidance materials in science and religious education.
Structure–function relationships of the 5‐oxoprolinase subunit A: Guiding biological sciences students down the path less traveled
Authors: Oke Muse , Oni Omobukola , Bello Ronke , Samuel‐Omoyajowo Kennedy , Senbadejo Tosin
Published: September 2019

Bioinformatics was recently introduced as a module for both undergraduate and postgraduate biological sciences students at our institution. Our experience shows that inquiry‐based hands‐on exercises provide the most efficient approach to bioinformatic straining. In this article, we report a structural bioinformatics project carried out by Master degree students to determine structure–function relationships of the uncharacterized prokaryotic 5‐oxoprolinase subunit A (PxpA). PxpA associates with the PxpBC complex to form a functional 5‐oxoprolinase enzyme for conversion of 5‐oxoproline to L‐glutamate. Although the exact role of PxpA is yet to be determined, it has been demonstrated that PxpBC catalyses the first step of the reaction, which is phosphorylation of 5‐oxoproline. Here, we provide evidence that PxpA is involved in the last two steps of the reaction:decyclization of the labile phosphorylated 5‐oxoproline to the equally labile γ‐glutamylphosphate, and subsequent dephosphorylation to L‐glutamate. Structural bioinformatics analysis of four putative PxpA structures revealed that PxpA adopts a non‐canonical TIM barrel fold with well‐characterized TIM barrel enzyme features. These include a C‐terminal groove comprising potentially essential conserved amino acid residues organized into putative motifs. Phylogenetic analysis suggests a relationship between taxonomic grouping and PxpA oligomerization. PxpA forms a tunnel upon ligand binding, thus suggesting that the PxpABC complex employs the mechanism of substrate channeling to protect labile intermediates. Ultimately, students were able to form a testable hypothesis on the function of PxpA, an achievement we consider encouraging other students to emulate. © 2019 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 47(6):620–631, 2019.
Subperiosteal Papilla Augmentation With a Non–Animal‐Derived Hyaluronic Acid Overlay Technique
Authors: Spano Stephen J. , Ghilzon Romanita , Lam David K. , Goldberg Michael B. , Tenenbaum Howard C.
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Loss of the interdental papilla, leading to the formation of black triangular spaces just below the contact area of adjacent teeth, is one of the most challenging periodontal conditions to treat and often requires an interdisciplinary approach by the periodontist, restorative dentist, and orthodontist. Although these “black triangles” may appear quite small from a clinician's standpoint, they can have a significant impact on oral health satisfaction for patients. This case series illustrates a novel minimally invasive approach to restore interdental papilla deficiencies.

Case Presentation

Four interdental papilla defects were treated in three females. No patients were lost to follow‐up over 6 months. The surgery consisted of a horizontal incision placed apical to the area of papillary loss in the alveolar mucosa just beyond the mucogingival junction. An interdental subperiosteal tissue space was then created by tunneling toward and under the dental papilla. Once adequate release was achieved, dermal filler was administered into and underneath the deficient papilla. The papillary margins were then sealed with cyanoacrylate and additional dermal filler was injected as needed to achieve ideal papillary fill. Six months after treatment there was an improvement in patient‐satisfaction regarding papilla fill demonstrated by a mean increase in visual analogue scale (VAS) measurements of 62.46%. Mean papilla fill was 1.75 mm.

Conclusion

This surgical technique demonstrates the restoration of deficient interdental papillae between teeth and implants, and perhaps as importantly, a considerable improvement in patient‐based outcomes quantified through VASs.