bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pathogenicity of Aphelenchoides pseudogoodeyi on the ornamental plants Asplenium nidus and Lilium speciosum in Brazil
Authors: Santos E. C. , Silva I. L. Da , Rosa R. O. , Oliveira C. M. G. , Buonicontro D. S. 
Published: March 2021

Summary

Aphelenchoides pseudogoodeyi has recently been reported in association with seeds of forage grasses and rice in Brazil and senescent strawberry plants, in the United States. This nematode is likely a mycophagous species; however, so far, its pathogenicity potential to plants is unclear. This study aimed to verify the pathogenicity of A. pseudogoodeyi to two species of ornamental plants. The experiments were conducted by inoculating A. pseudogoodeyi onto Bird’s-Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus) and Oriental Lily (Lilium speciosum) leaves, using two inoculation methods (with and without injury). After 40 days of inoculation (DAI) in Bird’s-Nest Fern and 5, 10, 20 and 40 DAI in Oriental Lily, the pathogenicity and the host efficiency were evaluated by symptoms observation and by severity, final nematode population and reproductive factor (RF), respectively. Additionally, a histopathological study was performed by inoculating A. pseudogoodeyi onto Bird’s-Nest Fern for observing anatomical alterations. A. pseudogoodeyi was able to cause local necrotic lesions on both Bird’s-Nest Fern and Oriental Lily leaves. However, the presence of injury was essential to enable A. pseudogoodeyi to penetrate and cause those symptoms in both plant species. Also, the total population of A. pseudogoodeyi decreased drastically over time and RF was <1, which characterized these species as poor-host or resistant plants. A. pseudogoodeyi penetrated into the foliar tissue and induced a total destruction of the mesophyll and collapse of the cells, with the formation of large intercellular spaces. It is concluded that A. pseudogoodeyi is an opportunistic pathogen as injury was required to induce symptoms in Bird’s-Nest Fern and Oriental Lily.
Technical Education, Non-cognitive Skills and Labor Market Outcomes: Experimental Evidence from Brazil
Authors: Camargo Juliana , Lima Lycia , Riva Flavio , Souza André Portela 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This paper describes the results from an evaluation of a public policy that offers scholarships to current and former public high school students, so that they can attend technical and vocational education courses free of charge. We use a waiting list randomized controlled trial in four municipalities in a southern Brazilian State (Santa Catarina) to quantify the effects of the program on school progression, labor market outcomes and non-cognitive skills. Our intention-to-treat estimates reveal substantial gender heterogeneity two years after program completion. Women experienced large gains in labor market outcomes and non-cognitive skills. Employment rose by 21 percentage points (or approximately 33%) and the gains in earnings are of more than 50%. Also, women who received the offer scored 0.5σ higher on the synthetic index of non-cognitive skills and 0.69σ higher on an extraversion indicator. We find no effects on the male sub-sample. These findings corroborate the evidence on gender heterogeneity in the labor market effects of technical and vocational education programs. We also perform a series of exercises to explore potential channels through which these effects arise.
Thermoluminescence Response of AlN+Y2O3 Ceramics to Sunlight and X-Ray Irradiation
Authors: Cipa J. , Trinkler L. , Berzina B. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
AlN is a wide band gap material with promising properties for dosimetric applications, especially in UV dosimetry. In the present research, the thermoluminescence method is used in order to better understand sunlight and X-ray irradiation effects on yttria doped AlN ceramics. In general, the TL response is characterised by a broad TL peak with maxima around 400–450 K and a TL emission spectrum with UV (400 nm), Blue (480 nm) and Red (600 nm) bands. Compared to the X-ray irradiation, sunlight irradiation creates a wider TL glow curve peak with a maximum shifted to higher temperatures by 50 K.
Furthermore, in the TL emission spectra of AlN irradiated with sunlight the UV band is suppressed. The reasons of the TL peculiarities under two types of irradiation are discussed. Practical application of AlN ceramics as material for UV light TL dosimetry and, in particular, for sunlight dosimetry is estimated.
Gallium Concentration Optimisation of Gallium Doped Zinc Oxide for Improvement of Optical Properties
Authors: Spustaka A. , Senko M. , Millers D. , Bite I. , Smits K. , Vitola V. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The near-band luminescence of doped ZnO is promising for advanced scintillators; however, the dopant type and concentration effects require a detailed study. Undoped and Ga-doped ZnO nanopowders were prepared by a microwave-assisted solvothermal method and the gallium concentration effect on luminescence properties was studied. The near-band luminescence peak position dependence on gallium concentration was observed. Near-band luminescence intensity versus defect luminescence intensity ratio was explored for different gallium concentrations and the optimal value was determined. Samples were prepared with dopant concentrations between 0.2 and 1.5 at%, XRD analysis confirmed that samples contained only zinc oxide hexagonal wurtzite phase. The results of the research showed that ZnO:Ga containing 0.9 at.% gallium was promising for scintillators.
Perceptions of age in contemporary tech
Authors: Rosales Andrea , Svensson Jakob 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This article attends to age stereotypes and ageism in contemporary tech. In academia, little attention has been devoted to this topic. Therefore, we intend to initiate a discussion around ageism in tech by studying perceptions of age in the tech industry. Our study is based on interviews with 18 tech workers around the world of varying age. According to our interviewees, tech workers over 35 are considered old in the tech industry. Older tech workers are expected to become managers, thought to become less interested in new technology, and expected to have more challenges when learning new software. We also look at how tech workers of different age groups experience entrepreneurial values of the company as a playground, staying hungry, and changing the future with technology, and how these values influence their professional careers. We conclude that ageism is reinforced in contemporary tech through several stereotypes related to age.
The influence of electron and gamma irradiation on the properties of starch:PVA films – the effect of irradiation dose
Authors: Cieśla Krystyna A. , Abramowska Anna 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The paper discusses the effect of ionizing radiation on the functional properties of the biodegradable starch:PVA films. The analysis is related to the possible use of the material for packing the products (particularly, food) that are predicted for radiation decontamination and to the potential modification of the material by radiation treatment. Our previous results have shown that the influence of ionizing radiation on the films’ properties varied for the specific compositions (differing in starch:PVA ratio or the type of substrates) and depended on irradiation conditions. However, these studies considered only the irradiation performed in gamma chamber or in e-beam using a dose of 25 kGy. Therefore, the present study deals with the effect of the irradiations performed using various doses on the selected promising starch:PVA composition. The films characterized by starch:PVA weight ratio of 45:55 was obtained by solution casting and irradiated with fast electrons in air and with 60Co gamma rays in nitrogen applying the doses of 5, 10, 20, 25, 30, 50, and 75 kGy. No regular dependence has been noticed between the composition of films (differing in the starch and PVA content) and the intensities of the particular bands in the UV-VIS DRS spectra after irradiation. The results indicated strong interaction of the starch and PVA components in the films and the occurrence of specific reactions in each composition upon irradiation. No special differences were observed between tensile strength and Young’s modulus of the non-irradiated films characterized by the starch:PVA ratio equal to 45:55 and the samples irradiated using doses in the range of 5–75 kGy. Similarly, no differences were observed in both cases between the swelling capability of the non-irradiated and the irradiated films. However, it can be deduced that solubility in water increased when the radiation dose increased. The results show that using the doses till the range 25 kGy does not cause an essential change of all the examined properties of the starch:PVA (45:55) films. Accordingly, starch:PVA (45:55) films might be considered suitable for packing food predicted for radiation decontamination.
Radiological characterization of the phosphate deposit in Al-Jalamid phosphate mining area, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhawsawi Abdulsalam M. , Shababa E. I. , Qutub Maher M. T. , Banoqitah Essam M. , Kinsara A. A. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
It is a known fact that phosphate rocks have high levels of natural radioactivity due to the presence of large concentrations of radionuclides. This work aims to estimate radiation exposure and dose levels at Al-Jalamid site in northern Saudi Arabia. Al-Jalamid area is one of the largest reserves of phosphate worldwide. Ma’aden, a Saudi Government public company, owns the mine and is responsible for all mining activities. Phosphate and soil samples collected from Al-Jalamid phosphate mining area have been analysed for their uranium and thorium content by an α-spectrometer using radiochemical techniques. The quantity of radon gas was measured both in groundwater and in the atmosphere (indoor and outdoor) at the site using a portable radiation survey instrument. Groundwater samples collected from wells surrounding the mining area were analysed using a liquid scintillation counter in addition to an α-spectrometer. Finally, it is found that phosphate rock concentrate products cannot be utilized economically based on the standards set by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), since the average activity concentration does not reach the limit set by IAEA and hence are not commercially feasible.
Comparison of the influence of participation in screen golf on self-esteem, loneliness, depression, social isolation, and life satisfaction between people with and without disabilities in Republic of Korea
Authors: Bum Chul-Ho , Hums Mary A. , Picklesimer Amy , Choi Chulhwan 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Screen golf is a product of the combination of modern technology and leisure. This new form of sport can provide people with disabilities opportunities for positive life experiences through sport participation. This study aimed to investigate differences in the effect of screen golf participation on psychosocial factors (self-esteem, isolation, depression, loneliness, and life satisfaction) in people with and without disabilities. With 293 survey respondents in this study, the Multivariate Analysis of Variances (MANOVA) was performed twice to measure differences between groups after ensuring the validity and reliability of the instrument. Participation in screen golf demonstrated a positive effect for all factors for people with disabilities. Results also showed a more positive effect on self-esteem and life satisfaction for people without disabilities with screen golf experience than for those without any screen golf experience. This study demonstrated that screen golf, as a physical leisure activity, was helpful to all study participants, with greater positive effects observed for participants with disabilities. This finding suggests that ubiquitous leisure activities such as screen golf made possible by advancements in modern technologies offer desirable benefits to many. This study is highly meaningful since it demonstrated how technologies could be helpful to people with disabilities who historically have has less access to leisure activities than able-bodied people.
Concerns of pregnant women and women in childbed during the pandemic
Authors: Tułacz Kinga , Wierzbicka Barbara , Berghausen-Mazur Marta 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Aim. The purpose of the paper was to determine the type of concerns of pregnant women and women in childbed during the announced state of pandemic in the country.

Material and methods. The study included a group of 102 women, including 87 (85.3%) pregnant women and 15 (14.7%) puerperal women. A self-written questionnaire containing 18 questions was used for the study. The comparison of the values of the qualitative variables in the groups was performed using the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test. The statistical analysis was performed in the R program, version 4.0.22.

Results. In the study group, the respondents’ greatest fear was childbirth without an accompanying person. A frequent cause of concern among the respondents was the limitation of follow-up visits to the doctor or midwife providing prenatal care. Limited physical activity during the pandemic also turned out to be a significant concern. Only 11.8% of the respondents did not feel any fear in their current pregnancy. Additionally, among the reasons for their concerns, the respondents mentioned, among others: fear of separation of mother and child after delivery, the need to care for an older child, no visits to specialists, fear of infection with SARS CoV-2 virus. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant correlation between the number of children already owned and the concerns of pregnant women regarding being resourceful in caring for themselves and their child after returning home.

Conclusions. The duration of the pandemic is a significant stress factor for a pregnant woman. A significant group of female respondents was concerned about the deterioration of maternity care and infection with the virus during hospital stay. Therefore, the task of medical personnel is to provide mental support and educate patients.
Selected determinants of spirituality among nurses
Authors: Deluga Alina , Dobrowolska Beata , Jurek Krzysztof , Nowicki Grzegorz , Ślusarska Barbara 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Introduction. Spirituality has a multi-dimensional nature which influences the professional activities of nurses in a caring profession.

Aim. Identifying selected determinants of spirituality among nurses and their relationship with socio-demographic factors.

Material and methods. Research was conducted in 2018 on 144 nurses. All of the respondents were active in their profession. The research was made with diagnostic survey method using standardized research tools, including a Self-Description Questionnaire (SDQ), the Spiritual Transcendence Scale (STS), and the Brief Religious Coping (RCOPE) questionnaire, (BR).

Results. It was established that age and professional seniority positively correlate with Religious Attitude (SDQ), p<0.05; Transcendence Proper (STS), p<0.01; and with positive religious stress-coping strategies (BR), p<0.01. It shows that a declaration of relationship to faith positively correlates with the subscales of the questionnaire (SDQ), i.e. Religious Attitude (r=0.247, p<0.01), Ethical sensitivity (rho=0.230, p<0.01), and Harmony (r=0.218, p<0.05). Moreover, a strong correlation was confirmed with Transcendence Proper (STS), r=0.40, p<0.01, and with positive religious strategies for coping with stress (BR), r=0.505, p<0.01, and declared relationship to faith.

Conclusions. The dimensions of spirituality are significantly related to age, seniority, declaration of attitude to faith, and positive religious stress-coping strategies. Predictors of spirituality among nurses are place of residence, spiritual openness and negative religious stress-coping strategies.
Detection and Genotyping of Human Papillomavirus in Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma Samples
Authors: Lifšics Andrejs , Čistjakovs Maksims , Groma Valērija , Murovska Modra 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The incidence of hypopharyngeal cancer globally is about 0.8 per 100 000. Globally, approximately 38 000 cases of head and neck cancer are considered yearly to be high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) related. Biopsy material fixation in formalin and embedding in paraffin (FFPE) creates many challenges. The extraction of nucleic acid material requires a more complicated approach, and often the extracted DNA is fragmented. The aim of the study was to compare several HR-HPV detection methods in nucleic acid material extracted from FFPE samples. The extracted DNA was analysed with different molecular biology methods to assess DNA quality and to determine the presence of HPV DNA with various HPV detection systems. The results were compared and statistically analysed. There was good agreement between two real-time PCR methods — Anyplex II HPV28 and Sacace HPV High-Risk Screen Real-TM Quant. We failed to reach a conclusion on agreement between real-time PCR methods and HPV16 type-specific primer PCR. There was moderate positive correlation between Anyplex II HPV28 semiquantitative results and Sacace quantitative results. We suggest that real-time PCR assays detecting smaller DNA amplicons are good and reliable methods for detecting HPV genetic material in FFPE samples.
Right Ventricle Involvement in Patients with Acute ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Is Echocardiography Good Enough in Diagnosing It?
Authors: Pičkure Žanna , Kalinin Artem , Lejnieks Aivars 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Right ventricle (RV) dysfunction in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is more common and important than previously considered. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of RV involvement in acute STEMI by using advanced echocardiography (Echo) methods, such as RV longitudinal strain and three-dimensional (3D) ejection fraction, and to prove that RV involvement is not exclusive to right coronary artery damage in STEMI. The study group was formed of 73 patients aged 30 to 60 years with confirmed first-time acute STEMI and coronary angiography performed. Abnormality thresholds for standard and advanced Echo parameters in case of STEMI for predicted RV dysfunction were RV 3D ejection fraction < 49% and RV free wall longitudinal strain > –24.5 %. Using these abnormality thresholds it was possible to detect RV dysfunction in 60% of STEMI cases. The acquired results are close to the cardiac magnetic resonance data found in literature, which is the gold standard for determination of RV systolic function. RV involvement did not depend on the damaged coronary artery, as there was no association detected (p = 0.09); therefore, RV function should be assessed in every STEMI patient, and Echo is an effective method for this purpose.
Detecting Knee Cartilage Structural Changes Using Magnetic Resonance Computed Vision Analysis in Patients with Osteoarthritis: Preliminary Results
Authors: Supe Ingus , Supoņenkovs Artjoms , Platkājis Ardis , Kadiša Anda , Lejnieks Aivars 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Based on epidemiological data, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease of populations of industrialised countries. The increasing prevalence of OA is closely related to an ageing population and a sedentary lifestyle. Load-bearing joints, such as hip, knee, and intervertebral joints, are the primary ones that are being subjected to the degenerative changes. The patho-physiology of the disease is based on progressive damage and gradual deterioration of the micro and macrostructure of hyaline cartilage. In today’s radiological practice, the first-line method for assessing the condition of articular cartilage is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, the sensitivity of standard clinical MRI in articular cartilage assessment is limited. For this reason, for the last five years there has been a rapidly growing interest in developing advanced MRI techniques for cartilage structure evaluation. The purpose of this pilot study was to highlight the possibilities of Artificial Intelligence Computed Vision Analysis (MEDH 3.0 algorithm) in the evaluation of cartilage changes of the knee joint. The study was carried out at Rīga East Clinical University Hospital (RAKUS) and included 25 patients. After assessment by a rheumatologist, the participants were divided into two groups: 15 (60%) participants with OA and 10 (40%) healthy individuals. All patients underwent MRI examinations according to a unified RAKUS Gaiïezers Radiology clinic protocol. MRI data were analysed using the Computed Vision Analysis MEDH 3.0 algorithm. The results showed substantial differences in intensity variance (p < 0.01) parameters, as well as in pixel entropy and homogeneity values (p < 0.01). The results of the pilot study confirmed the potential use of Artificial Intelligence Computed Vision Analysis in further development and integration in the assessment of cartilage changes in the knee joint.
Geotourism Potentials of Geosites in Durrës Municipality, Albania
Authors: Braholli Ermiona , Menkshi Edlira 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Present geological and geomorphological objects are non-living features that can enhance curiosity and increase the knowledge of Earth's history, through the development of geotourism. The municipality of Durrës, located in western Albania represents an active tectonic area with numerous landforms, an evidence of geodiversity and geoheritage. In this paper, the most typical geosites are identified mainly based on their scientific values as well as their geotourism potential. After the defining of 5 geosites, through geological and topographical map, we applied the Geosite assessment model (GAM). GAM is widely used in Europe on different areas and has given good results in the evaluation of geosites. The GAM method involves only experts’ opinions, which are essential for the preliminary development of geotourism in Albania. This method produce different main values (MV) and additional values (AV) score, which are very useful results in preservation, conservation and promotion of the area.
Communication and Information Services – NATO Requirements, Part II
Authors: Farkas Tibor 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Recent publication is the second part of an article which summing up the most important requirements, by which “Heads of State and Government of NATO member countries” have defined the basic tasks and guidelines for the alliance and the member states in order to guarantee their security. These principles and requirements fundamentally defined the needs of command and control’s ICT (Information and Communication Technology) support and its management methodology. Based on these, it introduces the changes in the capabilities and requirements defined by NATO, and the general operational capabilities defining communication and information systems and services in the next 10 years after Bucharest Summit. In this paper, the author analyzes the declarations, summarizes the key directives in the field of ICT, and draws conclusions about the needs for present and future capabilities.