bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Początki wołoskiej autonomii — bitwa pod Posadą według XIV-wiecznej Kroniki Ilustrowanej
Authors: Woszuk Natalia
Published: December 2020

Kronika Ilustrowana, manuskrypt z 1360 r., znana pod łacińską nazwą Chronicon Pictum, kończy się opowieścią o bitwie pod Posadą. Starcie zbrojne, do którego doszło w 1330 r. między Węgrami a Wołoszczyzną, dziś jest pamiętane jako doniosłe zwycięstwo nowo powstałej dynastii Basarabów. Dwie miniatury obrazujące bitwę pod Posadą zawarte na kartach 143 i 146 Kroniki Ilustrowanej, często pomijane w kontekście opracowania historycznego, stanowią integralną część opowieści i uzupełnienie tekstu pisanego. Obraz pełni funkcję zapisu wydarzeń oraz dodatkowo dostarcza informacji na temat ówczesnych strojów, uzbrojenia i artystycznych środków wyrazu. Analiza bitwy pod Posadą na podstawie XIV-wiecznej Kroniki Ilustrowanej stanowi próbę uzupełnienia badań historycznych o analizę malarstwa miniatorskiego.
Seme Border, Nigeria: Safety and Collective Vulnerability
Authors: ESELEBOR Willie Aziegbe
Published: December 2020

The induced border closure at Seme Border, Nigeria, on March 23, 2020 is just one among other closures carried out from 1984-2020. The closure brings to the fore issues of safety and collective vulnerability of the border communities and the existing coping mechanisms for addressing their fears. In the absence of constructive engagement with the vulnerable, the people often resorted to self-help by creating alternate routes (bush paths and waterways) thereby rendering the securitisation of border security (Border Drill) management ineffectual. In decision-making and for a successful implementation, it is important to allow for a buy-in from those affected by such policy.
The Southern French–Italian Border Before, During, and After COVID-19 Lockdowns
Authors: Trucco Daniela
Published: December 2020

This essay focuses on the French–Italian border of the Maritime Alps. Grounded on previous research and on more recent data, it examines both “desirable” (cross-border workers and customers) and “undesirable” (illegalized non-European migrants) circulation before, during and after the COVID-19 French and Italian lockdown.
The Nepal–India Border and Borderland Communities Under COVID-19
Authors: Shrestha Buddhi N.
Published: December 2020

There is an open border regime between Nepal and India since centuries. But all the border-crossings have been closed dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic period. The number of Border Observation Posts increased from 120 to 500 to obstruct movement. So the daily activities of borderland communities were affected.
Closing Time: EU Border Crossings During COVID-19
Authors: Kany Marco
Published: December 2020

There are more than 40 border crossings between the Federal State of Saarland, Lorraine and Luxembourg. In fact, Saarbrücken is the only one of the 16 state capitals of the Federal Republic of Germany on whose territory a state border runs. The urban area of Saarbrücken borders directly on France over a distance of more than 10 km. I was born in 1971 and grew up in a small village, pretty close to the French border. The border points were always easy to pass, even before the Schengen Agreement came into force. Like anybody, I accepted the rare controls. It was perhaps like accepting an annual cold. “After Schengen” the border disappeared more and more from my (and also the collective) consciousness over the years, a state that I still appreciate very much today. All the more it hit me to be confronted with closure of this border for the first time in my life. The obvious consequence for me was the creation of the photo series with which I wanted to document this unpleasant and hopefully unique state. All photos were taken between March 27 and April 10, 2020. For the compelte series, see my website.

» © Marco Kany | marcokany.de «
Serum Levels of Il-12 and Il-23 in Breast Cancer Patients Infected with Toxoplasma gondii: A Case-Control Study
Authors: ASSIM Maha Mustafa , SAHEB Entsar Jabbar
Published: December 2020

Background: The possible risk factor of Toxoplasma infection and its possible correlation with Interleukin-12 (IL-12) and Interleukin-23 (IL-23) in breast cancer patients was investigated.
Methods: Overall, 190 female patients referred to the Oncology Teaching Hospital in the Medical City Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq were enrolled from 2017-2018. All serum samples were tested for T. gondii immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM (antibodies and IL-12, IL-23 levels.
Results: In patients with breast cancer, the results revealed a high positivity percentage for anti- Toxoplasma IgG. In breast cancer patients infected with T. gondii, the IL-12 level was lower than the controls while the mean level of IL-23 was higher than the controls. According to the cancer grade in breast cancer patients infected with T. gondii, the higher mean titer of IgG and IL-23 was in grade 3 in contrast the highest mean titer of IL-12 was in grade 1. Concerning the tumor stages in breast cancer patients infected with T. gondii, the higher mean titer of IgG, IL-12 and IL-23 was in stage (III). According to the tumor size in breast cancer patients infected with T. gondii, the highest mean titer of IgG, IL-12 and IL-23 was in size >3cm.
Conclusion: The levels of IL-23 could be a candidate as a non-invasive primitive marker for earlier prediction of breast cancer stage.
Trypanothione Reductase Gene Mutations in Meglumine Anti-moniate Resistant Isolates from Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Pa-tients Using Molecular Dynamics Method
Authors: FOZONGARI Fatemeh , DALIMI Abdolhossein , ARAB Seid Shahriar , BEHMANESH Mehrdad , KHAMMARI Anahita
Published: December 2020

Background: In this study, mutations in the tripanothion reductase of Leishmania tropica isolated from Iran was investigated using sequencing and simulation of the enzyme by the molecular dynamic method.
Methods: Fifteen susceptible and 15 clinical resistant L. tropica specimens were collected from skin lesions from different regions of Iran in 2017. After DNA extraction, trypanothione reductase (TRYR or TPR), gene fragment was amplified using PCR and sequencing methods. In the case of structural mutations, the components were simulated by molecular dynamics using the GROMACS software.
Results: Some structural mutations were observed in 9 amino acids surrounding the active site of the TRYR gene of L. tropica with three-dimensional trypanothione reductase alteration.
Conclusion: Change in the active site of TRYR of L. tropica, could probably contribute to the development of resistant L. tropica to glucantime. Because of the likely occurrence of mutations in glucantime as well as the ease of development of L. tropica resistant populations, more samples are needed to demonstrate the relationship between mutations in this enzyme and clinical resistance to glucantime. On the other hand, it is recommended that enzymatic studies be performed to confirm the role of mutation in the function and expression of trypanothione reductase in glucantime resistant and susceptible populations.
Toxoplasma gondii: A Possible Inducer of Oxidative Stress in Re-productive System of Male Rats
Authors: HOSEINY ASL NAZARLU Ziba , MATINI Mohammad , BAHMANZADEH Maryam , FOROUGHI-PARVAR Faeze
Published: December 2020

Results: After post inoculation, the variations of the OSMs in the testis tissue of infected rats were as follows: a significant decrease of SOD on day 80 (P=0.03), and CAT activity were detected on day 60 and 80 (P=0.04 and P=0.01) respectively.  In addition, GSH (P =0.01) and TAC (P =0.03) concentration were significantly reduced on day 80. On the contrary, the concentration of MDA (P =0.01) was increased 70 days after infection. In addition, consistent changes with the tissue testis were observed in the serum OSMs of infected rats.
Conclusion: T. gondii infection caused oxidative stress in testis tissue. Thus, the adverse effects of oxidative stress may affect the male rat reproductive system.
Role of Adenosine Deaminase in Patients with Erythematotelan-giectatic Rosacea and Demodex folliculorum Positivity
Authors: SENER Serpil , KARAMAN Ulku , KIRAN Tugba Raika , COLAK Cemil , ASLAN Ali , DIREKEL Sahin
Published: December 2020

Background: Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is an aminohydrolase involved in the catabolism of purine nucleotides and irreversibly deaminizes adenosine and deoxyadenosine to inosine and deoxyinosine. ADA enzyme deficiency results in the loss of functional properties of B and T lymphocytes. Demodex species have been reported to be transmitted between humans through close contact and to play a role in the pathogenesis of rosacea, acne vulgaris, perioral dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, micropapillary-pruritic dermatitis and blepharitis. The present study aimed to compare serum ADA levels in D. folliculorum positive patients with the healthy control individuals.
Methods: Serum ADA levels were examined for 30 patients diagnosed with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea and 40 healthy individuals in Malatya Inonu University in 2017. Standardized skin surface biopsy (SSSB) method was used to diagnose D. folliculorum. A significant decrease was found in the ADA levels of Demodex-positive rosacea patients when compared to the control group.
Results: ADA levels were decreased in the Demodex-positive group. The mean ADA level in patient group was significantly lower than the mean in the control group (P<0.001). There was no significant difference between the patient and control groups in terms of age and gender.
Conclusion: During and after treatment of Demodex-positive rosacea patients, determination of ADA levels may give more detailed information on the immune mechanisms.
Experiences on Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Control in Imposed Iran-Iraq War 1980-1988
Authors: MEHRABI TAVANA Ali
Published: December 2020

The article's abstract is not available.
Genetic Identification of Echinococcus granulosus Isolates from Domestic Animals in Sabzevar, Northeast Iran
Authors: ELYASI Hossein , GOLMOHAMMADI Rahim
Published: December 2020

The article's abstract is not available.
Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide: a systematic review of medical students’ attitudes in the last 10 years
Authors: Gutierrez-Castillo Alejandro , Gutierrez-Castillo Javier , Guadarrama-Conzuelo Francisco , Jimenez-Ruiz Amado , Luis Ruiz-Sandoval Jose
Published: December 2020

This study aimed at examining the approval rate of the medical students’ regarding active euthanasia, passive euthanasia, and physician-assisted-suicide over the last ten years. To do so, the arguments and variables affecting students’ choices were examined and a systematic review was conducted, using PubMed and Web of Science databases, including articles from January 2009 to December 2018. From 135 identified articles, 13 met the inclusion criteria. The highest acceptance rates for euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide were from European countries. The most common arguments supporting euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide were the followings: (i) patient’s autonomy (n = 6), (ii) relief of suffering (n = 4), and (ii) the thought that terminally-ill patients are additional burden (n = 2). The most common arguments against euthanasia were as follows: (i) religious and personal beliefs (n = 4), (ii) the “slippery slope” argument and the risk of abuse (n = 4), and (iii) the physician’s role in preserving life (n = 2). Religion (n = 7), religiosity (n = 5), and the attributes of the medical school of origin (n = 3) were the most significant variables to influence the students’ attitude. However, age, previous academic experience, family income, and place of residence had no significant impact. Medical students' opinions on euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide should be appropriately addressed and evaluated because their moral compass, under the influence of such opinions, will guide them in solving future ethical and therapeutic dilemmas in the medical field.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE DETERMINATION OF A JUDICIAL AUTOMOTIVE EQUIPMENT EXAMINATION FROM THE STANDPOINT OF PROCEDURAL CONTRADICTIONS AND THE PRACTICAL RESULT APPLICATION EFFICIENCY
Authors:   Associate Professor of the Department of Construction Engineering and Engineering Mechanics Head of the Motor Technical Examination Scientific and Technical Center of the Voronezh State Technical University PhD in Engineering, Associate Professor, Tarasov Evgeniy A.
Published: December 2020

From the point of view of tasks and methodology judicial auto technical examination is considered as a means of obtaining reasonable information for objective consideration of circumstances of road accidents and offenses. The purpose of auto technical expertise as a variety or kind of engineering and transport expertise is to establish all the circumstances associated with an accident or a crime in which the car played the role of object, means, evidence, carrier traces. The criteria allowing to classify a specialist to the category of experts with special knowledge in the field of automotive engineering are presented. The types of forensic auto technical expertise are given. It is said that it is part of the competence of the expert-automotive. The competence of the automotive expert allows to conduct research and give conclusions on specific issues related to vehicles and the road situation in its dynamics, the consequences of accidents. The purpose of the article is to draw the attention of interested persons and organizations to the need to accurately determine the forensic automotive expertise and expert-automotive technician to eliminate a number of issues of a procedural and technical nature.
ISSUES OF THE QUALIFICATION OF A MURDER FOR THE PURPOSES OF USING VICTIM’S ORGANS OR TISSUES (CLAUSE М PART 2 ARTICLE 105 OF THE CRIMINAL CODE OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION)
Authors:   Head of the Department of Criminal Law and Criminology of the Moscow Academy of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation PhD (Law), Associate Professor, Ivanov Andrey L.
Published: December 2020

The article substantiates the solution of some of the issues of qualification of murder discussed in theory and practice in order to use human organs or tissues, the results of a study of judicial practice, in which clarifications of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation on this topic were applied.
THE CRIMINAL LAW PROTECTION OF SOCIAL SECURITY: A SCIENTIFIC OVERVIEW OF ARTICLE 207.1 OF THE CRIMINAL CODE OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors:   Professor of the Department of Social and Legal Disciplines of the Federal Tax Service Training Institute Honored Scientist of the Russian Federation Honored Lawyer of the Russian Federation LL.D., Professor, Kuznetsov Aleksandr P.
Published: December 2020

Newly introduced into Criminal Code of the Russian Federation articles 207.1 are examined in the study in terms of legal protection of public relations, provides a scientific commentary on it, recommendations on the qualification of committed acts are suggested.
CONCEPTUAL BASES OF THE ESTABLISHMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS OF LAW ENFORCEMENT EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN CARRYING OUT OF PRACTICAL SESSIONS ON A CRIME SCENE SIMULATION SITE
Authors:   PhD (Law), Associate Professor, Ivanov Konstantin G. , Kryukov Sergey R. ,   PhD (Law), Associate Professor
Published: December 2020

In this article, from a positive and methodologically grounded position, which are based on the theoretical and applied experience of the authors, an attempt is made to consider the possibilities of conducting practical training in the conditions of a forensic testing ground. The conceptual framework is determined by a scientifically based approach to the formation and implementation of innovative technologies in the educational process in the discipline “Forensic science” of the specialty “Legal support of national security”.
THE CRIMINAL LAW PROTECTION OF SOCIAL SECURITY: A SCIENTIFIC OVERVIEW OF ARTICLE 207.2 OF THE CRIMINAL CODE OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors:   Professor of the Department of Social and Legal Disciplines of the Federal Tax Service Training Institute Honored Scientist of Russia Honored Lawyer of Russia LL.D., Professor, Kuznetsov Aleksandr P.
Published: December 2020

Newly introduced into Criminal Code of the Russian Federation articles 2072 are examined in the study in terms of legal protection of public relations; scientific commentary on the articles is provided; recommendations on the qualification of committed acts are suggested.
CRIMINOLOGICAL AND CRIMINAL LAW ASPECTS OF COMBATING CYBER CRIME IN RUSSIA (SOCIOLOGICAL RESEARCH)
Authors:   Associate Professor of the Department of State and Legal Disciplines of the Irkutsk Law Institute (Branch) of the University of the Prosecutor’s Office of the Russian Federation PhD (Law), Associate Professor, Evdokimov Konstantin N.
Published: December 2020

The problem of the evolution of computer crime into high-tech crime, its cross-border, transnational, organized and latent nature, requires the scientific community and law enforcement agencies to develop new conceptual approaches to counter this asocial phenomenon. In the scientific article, the author, taking into account the opinion of computer users, proposes a number of measures to prevent, combat and minimize the harmful consequences of computer crimes in the Russian Federation.
CRIMINALISTIC PECULIARITIES OF “CRIMES OF THE PAST”
Authors:   Department Head of the Research Directorate (Research Institute for Criminalistics) of the Chief Directorate of Criminalistics (Center for Criminalistics) of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation PhD (Law), Khmeleva Alla V.
Published: December 2020

The paper considers the criminalistic features of such a category of criminal cases as “crimes of past years”. Based on the study of investigative practice, the forensic features of crimes of past years are revealed, the reasons why the crimes remained unrevealed.
CONCEPÇÕES DE EDUCAÇÃO AMBIENTAL EM PROCESSOS DE MEDIAÇÃO DE POLÍTICAS PÚBLICAS NA ESCOLA
Authors: Arnaldo Maria Aparecida , Santana Luiz Carlos
Published: December 2020

Este texto analisa as concepções de educação ambiental presentes em processos de mediação de políticas públicas de educação ambiental na escola. A pesquisa, de natureza qualitativa, que deu origem a este artigo foi desenvolvida a partir de seleção de sete escolas de Ensino Fundamental I de um município do interior do estado de São Paulo. As escolas foram selecionadas devido à informação de que possuíam projetos com conteúdos relacionados com a temática ambiental. Os procedimentos de pesquisa foram: entrevistas semiestruturadas, observações e análises de documentos. Os resultados apontaram que os processos que indicam a mediação de políticas públicas de educação ambiental nas escolas pesquisadas são permeados, predominantemente, por uma concepção pragmática da educação ambiental, isto é, estão voltados para a mudança de comportamento, para a reciclagem e para a responsabilização individual, deixando, muitas vezes, de problematizar as questões ambientais, de associar suas causas às questões sociais e de vislumbrar transformações nas estruturas da sociedade.
LISSA Newsletter
Authors:   The University of Southern Mississippi
Published: December 2020

News and events from SLIS student group: Library and Information Science Students Association (LISSA).
Organic Liquid Manures and Bio-Fertilizers: A Tool for Soil and Crop Productivity
Authors: Varshini S.V. , Jayanthi C.
Published: December 2020

Organic farming is an internationally regulated, legally enforced and standardized alternative agricultural paradigm that relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions with the aim of sustaining the health of soils, ecosystems and people. Organic farming utilizes various naturally obtaining substances such as manures, bio-fertilizers. Widely recognized among them are manures and bio-fertilizers. Conventionally they are applied as a solid and carrier based, but modern approach of applying in liquid form is gaining reputation. Application in liquid form facilitates better release of nutrients, enhancement of soil microbial activity, improvement of soil aggregation, soil properties and soil health. Some of the famous liquid manures are jeevamruth, panchagavya, beejamruth, vermiwash, humic acid and sea weed extract. Based on these evidences this paper explores the effectiveness, importance and limitations of most commonly used organic liquid manures. This paper also explains about the usage of liquid bio-fertilizers and their advantages.
Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), an Emerging Disease in India: A Review
Authors: Choudhari A.N. , Moregaonkar S.D. , Gangane G.R. , Markandeya N.M. , Narladkar B.W.
Published: December 2020

As per the literature scanned, outbreaks of LSD in cattle and Buffalo have been reported in certain pockets of world (endemically). Outbreaks of LSD have been reported in late 2019 (as per OIE report) in India. Recently, the outbreaks have been documented in certain parts of Maharashtra, especially Beed district and Marathwada (Karyarambh newspaper, 2020). Therefore, it was found pertinent to publish a review article, highlighting the recent updates of this disease. This would not only help field Veterinarians to tackle this field problem, but also to the laboratory scientists to undertake further research on control and prophylaxis strategies.
High Pressure Processing of Fruits and Vegetables: A Review
Authors: Archana A.K. , Lekshmi P.R. Geetha
Published: December 2020

Fruits and vegetables are considered as protective foods and received importance in healthy diet plan. Postharvest loss in quality as well as quantity of fruits and vegetables is huge due to seasonal production, high perishability, shorter shelf life and preservation through processing is one of the best methods to minimise the loss. Thermal methods are more popular and these traditional methods of fruit and vegetable preservation often affect the quality of final products in terms of color, taste, flavor and nutritional qualities. Demand for fruit and vegetable products with ‘fresh like’ qualities are increasing and there is a shift of thermal methods of processing to non-thermal methods to improve the quality of processed products. Several non-thermal methods of processing are developed in order to meet the consumer demand of which high pressure processing has proven to be extremely valuable for fruit and vegetable products. It is an emerging technology in juice and beverage sector which allow fruit and vegetable juices as well as smoothies to store safely for a longer time with fresh taste while preserving its nutritional quality.
Las redes sociales como medio para la prevención del VIH. Una revisión sistemática
Authors: Ortiz-Rodríguez Blanca
Published: December 2020

Introducción: En 2018 hubo un total de 141.552 nuevos casos de VIH diagnosticados en 50 países. La necesidad urgente de reducir el VIH en la población impulsó el desarrollo de investigaciones innovadoras basadas en internet. Las redes sociales han demostrado ser efectivas y aceptables para realizar actividades de promoción de la salud. Objetivos: Sintetizar la evidencia disponible acerca de la utilidad de las redes sociales como medio para la realización de intervenciones de promoción de la salud para prevenir el VIH en la población joven. Metodología: Revisión sistemática de artículos científicos. Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos: Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cinahl, Cochrane y PsyInfo. Además, se consultaron las revistas AIDS Education and Prevention y AIDS & Behaviour y una revisión de la bibliografía de artículos. La muestra incluyó personas entre los 15 y 39 años con estado serológico de VIH negativo o desconocido. Resultados: Siete artículos cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Se encontraron resultados positivos respecto a los cambios de comportamiento, adquisición de conocimientos, participación y aceptabilidad de la intervención. Conclusión: Las redes sociales han demostrado ser un medio de utilidad a la hora de realizar intervenciones de promoción de la salud para prevenir el VIH en la población joven.
“They are Scared of Me”: Black Male Perceptions of Sense of Belonging in U.S. Public Schools
Authors: Grace Jennifer
Published: December 2020

Using a Critical Race framework, this study examined black male perceptions of their sense of belonging in U.S. public schools. The author conducted semi-structured interviews with ten black males who had been expelled from schools. Findings reveal perceptions of a stark discrepancy in the quality of education provided at schools that are predominantly black vs. schools that are more racially diverse. Furthermore participants describe school as a hostile environment for black males citing microaggressions, isolation, and verbal abuse as indicators. Based on the findings, practical recommendations for supporting the educational experiences of black males are offered.
Editorial
Authors: Nelmi Trevisan Leonardo , Souza Dutra Joel , Fátima Rosa Veloso Elza
Published: December 2020

Cenários mais complexos da atual realidade econômica provocam diferentes reflexos,tanto nas organizações como em todo exercício profissional. As tensões do mercado, emdiferentes instancias, a do consumo, a do investimento, a do orçamento, a do emprego - estaespecialmente - constroem significativas mutações no ambiente de trabalho. Estas mutaçõesatingem, de diferentes maneiras, a gestão de pessoas. E as carreiras, em correlação direta.
Students and Orang Utan Conservation: High School Students’ Perceptions of Orang Utan Sanctuary Establishment in Balikpapan Bay, East Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Sayektiningsih Tri , Sari Ulfah Karmila , Yassir Ishak , Ma'ruf Amir
Published: December 2020

The role of young generations including students was crucial in orang utan conservation. They are not only agent of change, but they are also capable of distinguishing attitudes which are able to influence policy in the future. The purpose of this study was to examine high school students’ perceptions of establishment of the orang utan sanctuary in Balikpapan Bay. We used quantitative and qualitative approaches for data collection with students on the grade of XII as respondent. Data was analyzed descriptively and quantitatively. The findings showed that students had good perceptions towards unreleased orang utan conservation. They agreed that the orang utan sanctuary should be established. Students also had positive perceptions relating to the positive impacts of orang utan sanctuary on the village and environment. However, students had neutral perceptions towards negative impacts of orang utan sanctuary. There were no differences between male and female students’ perceptions towards the establishment of orang utan sanctuary. Conversely, male and female students’ perceptions in regards with the impacts of orang utan sanctuary on the village and environment were differed.
Dito e feito: escrita como leitura (e vice-versa) nas Memórias de Pedro Nava
Authors: Valle Neto Júlio de Souza
Published: December 2020

O presente texto pretende examinar a inter-relação entre escrita e leitura nas Memórias de Pedro Nava. Para isso, serão analisados como ela se manifesta enquanto tema, em episódios selecionados, e enquanto prática, sobretudo considerando-se os paratextos editoriais de Baú de Ossos. Como conclusão, propõe-se que o texto articula os dois níveis, nisso consistindo um dos seus mais marcantes traços distintivos.
Lost Identity: Transgender Persons Inside Indian Prisons
Authors:   Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative, Ghosh Arijeet , Dhanuka Madhurima ,   Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative, Bourothu Sai ,   Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative, Fernandes Fernando Lannes ,   University of Dundee, Singh Niyati , Kumar Chenthil
Published: December 2020

This report sheds light on challenges faced by Transgender persons in Indian prisons. The report analyses the international and legal frameworks in the country which provide the foundation for policy formulations with regard to confinement of LGBT+ persons, with particular reference to the Transgender community. This report also documents the responses received to right to information requests filed to prison headquarters across the country, which in addition to providing the number of Transgender prisoners in Indian prisons between 1st May 2018 to 30th April 2019, also provides relevant information on compliance within prisons with existing legal frameworks relevant to protecting the rights of Transgender persons in prisons, especially in terms of recognition of a third gender, allocation of wards, search procedures, efforts towards capacity building of prison administrators etc. The finalisation of this report has involved an intense consultative process with individuals and experts, including representatives from the community, community-based organisations as well as researcher and academicians working on this issue. This report aims to enhance the understanding of these issues among stakeholders such as prison administrators, judicial officers, lawyers, legal service providers as well as other non-state actors. It is aimed at better informed policy making, and ensuring that decisions made with respect to LGBTI+ persons in prisons recognize and are sensitive of their rights and special needs.
Treatment of genitourinary infections in pregnant women and intrauterine infections in newborns using recombinant interferon alpha-2b: results of the meta-analysis
Authors:   V.A.Almazov National Medical Research Center, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Kosenkova T.V. , Zazerskaya I.E. ,   V.A.Almazov National Medical Research Center, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Klikunova K.A. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
Published: December 2020

We summarized the results of 35 studies published in the last 25 years that evaluated the efficacy and safety of human recombinant interferon alpha-2b (Viferon®) in the treatment of inflammatory genitourinary infections in pregnant women and intrauterine infections in newborns. This drug has a positive effect on clinical manifestations and disease outcome; it promotes the elimination of pathogens, reduces the frequency and duration of viral/bacterial shedding and recurrent infections; it also prevents coinfection with other pathogens; reduces infection-associated morphological changes of the placenta and improves its morphometric parameters; restores normal uteroplacental blood flow, reduces the risk of placental insufficiency and intrauterine hypoxia; it significantly changes the colposcopy pattern, restore vaginal microbiocenosis, substantially reduces the incidence of infectious and inflammatory complications in mothers and incidence of intrauterine infections (including severe ones) in newborns; it decreases the length of stay in hospital and intensive care unit, duration of artificial ventilation, parenteral nutrition, antibacterial therapy in newborns with pneumonia; significantly reduces the frequency of perinatal non-infectious disorders; it improves the immune parameters, including those associated with antiviral protection, as well as the cytokine status in pregnant women with genitourinary infections and newborns with intrauterine infections; the drug caused no side effects or adverse reactions. Key words: pregnant women, intrauterine infection, newborns, recombinant interferon alpha-2b, urogenital infections
Brain metastases from gynaecological cancers
Authors:   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Sevyan N.V. ,   N.N.Blokhin National Medical Research Centre of Oncology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Karakhan V.B. ,   N.N.Blokhin National Medical Research Centre of Oncology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Naskhletashvili D.R. ,   N.N.Blokhin National Medical Research Centre of Oncology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Bekyashev A.Kh. ,   N.N.Blokhin National Medical Research Centre of Oncology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Prozorenko E.V. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Belov D.M. ,   N.N.Blokhin National Medical Research Centre of Oncology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Mitrofanov A.A. ,   N.N.Blokhin National Medical Research Centre of Oncology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Pogosova A.A. ,   N.N.Blokhin National Medical Research Centre of Oncology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Polyakov B.I. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: December 2020

The spread of female genital tract tumours to the brain is a rare and insufficiently studied pathology. The problems of diagnosis and treatment of this group of patients still remain. The article gives a detail account of the clinical picture, radiological and morphological diagnosis, and the principles of treating patients with brain metastases from gynaecological cancers. Conclusion. A probable cause of a rare occurrence of brain metastases from gynaecological malignancies might be a high resistance of nervous tissue to various kinds of tumours. When local control over a brain tumour is achieved, this might improve the patient’s survival and quality of life in some particular cases. Key words: ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, cervical cancer, brain metastases
What factors are Associated with the Development of Contras-induced Nephropathy in Elderly Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome in Real Clinical Practice?
Authors: Gilyarov M. Yu. , Konstantinova E. V. , Kovalets P. V. , Slivin A. V. , Udovichenko A. E. , Nesterov A. P. , Svetlova O. N. , Svet A. V.
Published: December 2020

Aim. To study the factors associated with contrast-induced acute kidney injury in elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).Material and Methods. A retrospective analysis of 514 electronic medical records of patients aged 75 years and over (38% men and 62% women) with confirmed acute coronary syndrome has been performed. The contrast-induced acute kidney injury was defined as an increase in serum creatinine ≥26.5 μmol/L in 48 h or as an increase in serum creatinine in 1.5 times within 7 days after the contrast media exposure. Patients were divided into contrast-induced acute kidney injury and non-contrast-induced acute kidney injury group. Clinical characteristics and in-hospital outcomes were extracted from patients' medical records. Procedural characteristics were obtained from laboratory database.Results. Angiographic intervention was performed in 74% of patients, 32% of them (more often in women, p=0.033) were diagnosed with contrast-induced acute kidney injury. Patients with contrast-induced acute kidney injury are characterized by a higher death rate (17% и 3%, p<0.001) and were more likely to have heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (34% и 21%, p=0.008) and acute heart failure (Killip class II-IV) (24% и 16%, p=0.015). The risk of developing contrast-induced acute kidney injury was related the volume of contrast medium administered.Conclusions. Prevention particular care should be taken to female patients older than 75 years with ACS, with a history of the chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction or acute heart failure (Killip class II-IV), and with a high volume of contrast media, highlighting that a perioperative comprehensive management strategy is needed to improve the prognosis.
Association of Smoking with Indicators of the Structure and Function of Blood Vessels in Middle-aged Men
Authors: Isaykina O. Yu. , Rozanov V. B. , Aleksandrov А. А. , Kotova M. B.
Published: December 2020

Aim. To study the association of smoking with indicators of the structure and function of blood vessels in a sample of middle-aged men.Material and methods. This study is part of a 32-year prospective cohort observation of males starting in childhood (11-12 years). The study included 301 (30.0%) representatives of the original population sample aged 41-44 years. The examination included a survey on a standard questionnaire with an assessment of the status and intensity of smoking, of anthropometric indicators, blood pressure (BP), and determination of the blood lipid spectrum. The stiffness of the arterial wall and central pressure were measured by the method of applanation tonometry. The carotid intima-media thickness of the common carotid artery (C-IMT) was estimated by the method of ultrasonic duplex scanning of the main vessels of the neck.Results. Of the 301 men examined, aged 41-44 years, 92 (30.6%) people never smoked, 73 (24.3%) smoked in the past and 136 (45.2%) people currently smoke. Former smokers were divided by the intensity of smoking in the past as follows: less than 20 cigarettes/day were smoked by 41 (56.0%) people, and ≥20 cigarettes/day - 32 (44.0%) people. Among current smokers, less than 20 cigarettes/day were smoked by 63 (46.0%) people, and ≥20 cigarettes - 73 (54.0%) people. Current smokers have a statistically significantly higher level of triglycerides and lower cholesterol of high density lipoproteins in the blood, augmentation index (AIx), augmentation blood pressure and C-IMT thicker than non-smokers. The thickness of the C-IMT and AIx was statistically significantly greater among current smokers who smoked 20 or more cigarettes daily. Men who smoked in the past had significantly greater body weight, waist circumference and pulse wave velocity. 12.4% of AIx variability was attributable to current smoking combined with variability in alcohol consumption, blood glucose, and heart rate. The body mass index (BMI) and ethanol consumption are independent determinants of peripheral and central systolic pressure, and account for 17.8% and 18.6% of their variance, respectively. The combined contribution of current smoking, age, BMI, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and plasma glucose to the thickness variability of C-IMT was 13.7%. Among men with a smoking duration in the past >10 years, the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and arterial stiffness indicators - AIx, pulse pressure amplification were higher compared to peers with a shorter smoking duration.Conclusion. Current smoking is associated with atherogenic changes in the blood lipid spectrum, impaired structure and function of the main arteries. Moreover, the severity of structural and functional disorders of the arteries is associated with the intensity of current smoking. If you give up smoking, there is a potential possibility of reversibility of these vascular disorders.
Crowing About Confidence: Technological Self-Efficacy in Academic Libraries
Authors: Chalifour Joshua , Cmor Dianne
Published: December 2020

Technological change is a constant in academic libraries and how we assess our ability to learn and use new technologies affects the services that we are able to provide. This article offers an introduction to the concept of technological self-efficacy and its potential relevance to library workers. It also provides a domain-specific measurement tool and ideas on how to build technological self-efficacy in library staff. We also talk about crows, because…the crow knows!
Anytime Collaborative Brain-Computer Interfaces for Enhancing Group Decision-Making in Realistic Environments
Authors: Bhattacharyya Saugat , Valeriani Davide , Cinel Caterina , Citi Luca , Poli Riccardo
Published: December 2020

In this paper we present and test collaborative Brain-Computer Interfaces (cBCIs) that can significantly increase both the speed and the accuracy of group decision-making in realistic situations. The key distinguishing features of this work are: (1) our cBCIs combine behavioural, physiological and neural data in such a way as to be able to provide a group decision at any time after the quickest team member casts their vote, but the quality of a cBCI-assisted decision improves monotonically the longer the group decision can wait; (2) we apply our cBCIs to two realistic scenarios of military relevance (patrolling a dark corridor and manning an outpost at night where users need to identify any unidentified characters that appear) in which decisions are based on information conveyed through video feeds; and (3) our cBCIs exploit Event-Related Potentials (ERPs) elicited in brain activity by the appearance of potential threats but, uniquely, the appearance time is estimated automatically by the system (rather than being unrealistically provided to it). As a result of these elements, groups assisted by our cBCIs make both more accurate and faster decisions than when individual decisions are integrated in more traditional manners.
Protective effect of glycyrrhizin, a direct HMGB1 inhibitor, on post-contrast acute kidney injury
Authors: Oh Hyewon , Seo Nieun , Lim Joon Seok , You Je Sung , Chung Yong Eun
Published: December 2020

Post contrast-acute kidney injury (PC-AKI) is defined as the deterioration of renal function after administration of iodinated contrast media. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between HMGB1 and PC-AKI and the protective effect of glycyrrhizin, a direct inhibitor of HMGB1, in rats. Rats were divided into three groups: control, PC-AKI and PC-AKI with glycyrrhizin. Oxidative stress, mRNA expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) and kidney injury markers (Kim-1, NGAL and IL-18) were assessed. In addition, the serum and intracellular protein levels of HMGB1 were analyzed. Moreover, serum creatinine (SCr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were assessed. Oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines, kidney injury markers and LDH were significantly higher in PC-AKI compared to the controls, but were lower in PC-AKI with glycyrrhizin. Intracellular and serum HMGB1 levels significantly increased after contrast media exposure, whereas they markedly decreased after glycyrrhizin pretreatment. SCr and BUN also decreased in PC-AKI with glycyrrhizin compared to PC-AKI. Our findings indicate that HMGB1 plays an important role in the development of PC-AKI and that glycyrrhizin has a protective effect against renal injury and dysfunction by inhibiting HMGB1 and reducing oxidative stress.
An analysis of the Educational Environment at the Malta Foundation Programme using the Postgraduate Hospital Educational Environment Measure (PHEEM).
Authors: Grech Marco
Published: December 2020

Background Learning from managing patients in a real-world context is by far superior to simulation learning. A substandard educational environment is associated with poor patient care and suboptimal learning outcomes. The measurement of the educational environment provides an insight on what is needed to improve the level of training.Methods This study used the Postgraduate Hospital Educational Environment Measure (PHEEM) to measure the educational environment at the Malta Foundation Programme. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the demographics of the study population. Non-parametric comparative statistics were used to identify statistically significant differences between groups.Results 98 trainees out of 370 (26.5%) completed the online questionnaire. These consisted of 39 FY1s (31.5% of 124), 33 FY2s (24.8% of 133) and 26 Extended FYs (23.0% of 113). The 40-item PHEEM showed good reliability with a Cronbach’s α value of 0.912. These doctors have perceived their educational environment as more positive than negative. There seems to be a dip midway through training with an improvement towards the end of the two-year training period. The three worst scoring items seem to be related to when the trainees are on call.Conclusion Perceptions of role autonomy and of social support are areas where most work is needed. Teaching seems to be moving in the right direction but there is always room for improvement.
Changes in Essential Oil Content and Composition of Salvia Limbata C.A. Mey at Different Growth Stages and Altitudes
Authors: Saffariha Maryam , Azarnivand Hossein , Chahouki Mohammad Ali Zare , Tavili Ali , Ebrahimi Samad Nejad , Potter Daniel , Jahani Reza
Published: December 2020

BackgroundThe present study investigates the effect of growth stage (vegetative, flowering and seed ripening) and altitude (1500, 2000 and 2500 m above sea level) on the content and chemical composition of S. limbata essential oil which belongs to Lamiaceae family.ResultsAccording to the oil analysis, 28 components representing 96.5% to 99.7% of the total volatile oil composition were characterized. The main compounds of S. limbata oils were α-pinene (14.7-38.7%), β-pinene (12.5-26.2%), allo-aromadendrene (9.2-21.7%), germacrene D (4.2-8.3%), bicyclogermacrene (6.5-14.5 %), and spathulenol (7.5-25.4 %).DiscussionThe obtained results showed that the content and constituents of S. limbata essential oil strongly depend on the growth stage and altitude. Our findings revealed that the vegetative stage at 1500 m is the optimal harvest time to obtain the highest content of oil yield. Results of the current study helps to find the optimum situation to gain the highest content of S. limbata essential oil but more researches are needed.
Interprofessional Education on Complex Patients in Nursing Homes: A Focus Group Study 
Authors: Svensberg Karin , Kalleberg Birgitte , Hellesø Ragnhild , Mathiesen Liv , Wøien Hilde , Hove Lene , Andersen Remi , Waaktaar Trine , Schultz Henrik , Sveaass Nora , Rosvold Elin
Published: December 2020

BackgroundAn ageing population leads up to increasing multi-morbidity and polypharmacy. This demands a comprehensive and interprofessional approach in meeting patients’ complex needs. This study describe graduate students’ experiences of working in interprofessional teams with complex patients’ care needs in nursing homes.MethodStudents from advanced geriatric nursing, clinical nutrition, dentistry, medicine and pharmacy at the University of K in Norway were joined to groups to examine and develop a care plan for a nursing home patient during a course. Focus groups were used, where 21 graduate students participated in four groups. Data were collected during spring 2018 and were inductively analysed according to a thematic analysis method (Systematic Text Condensation) and discussed using four previously proposed types of coordination practices. ResultsThree themes were identified: 1) Complex patients as learning opportunities- an eye-opener for future interprofessional collaboration 2) A cobweb of relations, and 3) Structural facilitators for new collective knowledge. Graduate university students experienced IPE on complex patients in nursing homes as a comprehensive learning arena.ConclusionsInterprofessional education in nursing homes disclose challenges and possibilities to develop the health care service for elderly patients with complex care needs. It is important to experience complex situations during professional education, even if frustrating, when students have the possibility to discuss difficulties with each other and the faculty. Educators can arrange their IPE activity to foster more collaborative practices and potentially increase learning outcomes.