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THE PROBLEM OF REPARATIONS FOR THE GENOCIDE OF HERERO AND NAMA PEOPLES IN THE INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS OF NAMIBIA AND THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY The aim of this article is to present Namibian and German discourses on the reparations for the genocide of the Herero and Nama peoples. Guided by the social‑constructivist epistemology, the authors sought to present the German government’s and Namibians’ understandings and positions on the issue of reparations instead of the complex explanation of this phenomenon. The authors conclude that while the Namibian government does not want to allow the Herero to negotiate unilaterally with Germany (this position is supported by the German government), the German government has admittedly stated that the crime committed during the Second Reich would have been genocide (“by today’s standards”) but simultaneously it does not intend to take any financial responsibility for the first genocide of the 20th century.

BackgroundEpilepsy requires continuous management and treatment to optimize patient outcomes. The advancement of digital health has led to the development of various mobile health (mHealth) tools designed to enhance treatment adherence among individuals with epilepsy. These solutions offer crucial support through features such as reminders, educational resources, personalized feedback, assistance with managing costs, shared decision-making, and access to supportive communities. To design effective medication adherence mHealth solutions, it is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of existing mHealth tools, understand the unique circumstances of different patients, and identify the roles of health care professionals within the digital care pathway. Existing studies on epilepsy primarily focus on self-management, whereas the effectiveness and usability of medical adherence mHealth solutions often remain overlooked. Furthermore, the involvement of health care professionals in digital care pathways for epilepsy as well as the impact of adherence mHealth solutions on the patient experience have not been adequately explored. ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the effectiveness of current mHealth solutions designed to improve medical adherence among patients with epilepsy. Furthermore, the study will examine the experiences of patients using mHealth solutions for maintaining medical adherence in epilepsy care. Finally, this review intends to determine the roles of health care professionals within mHealth systems aimed at supporting adherence to medication among patients with epilepsy. MethodsA systematic literature review has been selected as the appropriate method to address the research questions, adhering to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The inclusion and exclusion criteria have been carefully selected, and both qualitative and quantitative analyses will be used to analyze the results. The expected results will mainly focus on the comparison, classification, and analysis of the effectiveness of current medical adherence mHealth tools. Moreover, the patient experiences using available medical adherence mHealth tools for epilepsy will be assessed. Finally, the role of health care professionals in the epilepsy digital care pathway will be explored, with emphasis on medical adherence. ResultsThe initial search, full-text screening, and data extraction have been carried out. Thirty-three papers were included in the final stage of the review. The study is expected to be completed by October 2024. ConclusionsTo enhance the digital care pathway for epilepsy, a medical adherence mHealth solution should be personalized, manage medications, include an alarm system, track seizures, support consultations, and offer updated treatment plans. This study aims to understand how findings from the research questions can improve mHealth solutions for individuals with epilepsy. Insights from this research on the effectiveness of current mHealth adherence solutions will provide guidance for developing future mHealth systems, making them more efficient and effective in managing epilepsy. Trial RegistrationPROSPERO CRD4202347400; https://tinyurl.com/48mfx22e International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)DERR1-10.2196/55123

This article examines the transformation of political discourse on women’s rights and women-oriented NGOs in Tanzania, focusing on successive state administrations within the same political party, led by John Pombe Magufuli and Jakaya Kikwete. The analysis unfolds through three key phases: first, characterizing the habitus of Tanzanian women’s NGOs; second, examining the evolving narratives in government-NGO relations; and third, briefly exploring the political discourse during the Kikwete and Magufuli presidencies. The research methodology is based on extensive desk research and two field studies conducted in Tanzania. Rather than adhering to a preconceived theory, our research approach is guided by theorems and selected frameworks. Pierre Bourdieu’s theoretical concepts, particularly ‘habitus’ and the ‘exchangeability of different forms of capital,’ underpin our argument and interpretation of the data. The study shows that while elements of anti-feminism are evident in Magufuli’s political discourse, accusations of promoting toxic masculinity are mainly unfounded. At the same time, it argues that the critique of women’s empowerment and women-focused NGOs can be attributed to Magufuli’s unique mode of accumulating political and economic capital, leading to heightened distrust in the relationship between these NGOs and the Tanzanian government.

Objective: A change in handwriting is an early sign of Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, significant inter-person differences in handwriting make it difficult to identify pathological handwriting, especially in the early stages. This paper reports the testing of NeuroDiag, a software-based medical device, for the automated detection of PD using handwriting patterns. NeuroDiag is designed to direct the user to perform six drawing and writing tasks, and the recordings are then uploaded onto a server for analysis. Kinematic information and pen pressure of handwriting are extracted and used as baseline parameters. NeuroDiag was trained based on 26 PD patients in the early stage of the disease and 26 matching controls. Methods: Twenty-three people with PD (PPD) in their early stage of the disease, 25 age-matched healthy controls (AMC), and 7 young healthy controls were recruited for this study. Under the supervision of a consultant neurologist or their nurse, the participants used NeuroDiag. The reports were generated in real-time and tabulated by an independent observer. Results: The participants were able to use NeuroDiag without assistance. The handwriting data was successfully uploaded to the server where the report was automatically generated in real-time. There were significant differences in the writing speed between PPD and AMC (P

In this article, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), acting as a transmitter, employs different power adaptation strategies in order to enhance the ergodic capacity of the wireless channel between it and a receiver on the ground. We present the derivation of closed-form expressions for the channel capacity of the recently developed UAV-to-ground fading channels under different power adaptation strategies. The power adaptation strategies considered in this paper are optimal rate adaptation with fixed power (ORA), optimal power and rate adaptation (OPRA), channel inversion with fixed rate (CIFR), and truncated channel inversion with fixed rate (TIFR). In addition to ergodic capacity analysis, precise analytical formulas for the effective capacity of the UAV-to-ground fading channels are derived. Additionally, all of these closed-form expressions are verified by comparing them with numerical results obtained through Monte Carlo simulations.

Objectives Women who inherit a pathogenic BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation are at substantially higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer than average. Several cancer risk management strategies exist to address this increased risk. Decisions about which strategies to choose are complex, personal and multifactorial for these women. Decision aids (DAs) are tools that assist patients in making health-related decisions. The aim of this scoping review was to map evidence relating to the development and testing of patient DAs for cancer unaffected BRCA mutation carriers.Design Scoping review conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI’s) scoping review methodological framework.Data sources MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science. No restrictions applied for language or publication date. A manual search was also performed.Eligibility criteria for selecting studies Studies on DAs for cancer risk management designed for or applicable to women with a pathogenic BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation who are unaffected by breast or ovarian cancer.Data extraction and synthesis Data were extracted using a form based on the JBI instrument for extracting details of studies’ characteristics and results. Data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers. Extracted data were tabulated.Results 32 evidence sources relating to development or testing of 21 DAs were included. Four DAs were developed exclusively for cancer unaffected BRCA mutation carriers. Of these, two covered all guideline recommended risk management strategies for this population though only one of these was readily available publicly in its full version. All studies investigating DA effectiveness reported a positive effect of the DA under investigation on at least one of the outcomes evaluated, however only six DAs were tested in randomised controlled trials.Conclusion This scoping review has mapped the landscape of the literature relating to developing and testing, DAs applicable to cancer unaffected BRCA mutation carriers.

Introduction and purpose Sleep apnea is a disturbance of sleep that affects about 10% of adult population and is not easily detected due to unspecific symptoms. The aim of this literature review is to present, respectively, obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea symptoms and integrate the available data in the literature regarding the pathogenesis and treatment methods. Materials and methods A review of literature was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar database. The search criteria included keywords such as sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea treatment, central sleep apnea treatment. State of knowledge Sleep disturbances that involve breathing can be categorized as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea. First one is associated with the obstruction of the upper airways and the second one – with malfunctioning breathing generator in the pontomedullary breathing pacemaker. Symptoms are unspecific which makes diagnostic process difficult. However, the right diagnosis and treatment may prevent patients from developing many cardiovascular diseases. Treatment options for OSA include: CPAP, reducing body weight, changing sleep position, braces and surgeries; for CSA: CPAP and acetazolamide. Conclusions OSA and CSA need to be further investigated in order to find more precise ways of diagnosis and treatment, as these diseases remain underreported. It is worth noting, that these conditions predispose to serious diseases, e.g. stroke. Therefore, developing new treatment techniques would beneficial for the health of population.

Introduction: Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic X-linked recessive disorder. This condition is characterized by progressive loss of muscle tissue. Thus, it results in deterioration and inability to perform basic motor skills such as independent movement or breathing. Due to progressive muscle weakness, patients with advanced stages of DMD require mechanical ventilation, feeding, and rehabilitation. Furthermore, alterations in cardiac muscle lead to cardiomyopathy. Despite advanced supportive treatment, DMD is a fatal disease. Purpose: The aim of the paper is to present, using a case study description, the current standards of treatment for patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy as well as the current state of knowledge and new discoveries regarding this medical condition. Material and methods The patient's medical records were analyzed and available literature in PubMed was reviewed to write this article using the keywords: „Duchenne muscular dystrophy”; „cardiomyopathy”; „mechanical ventilation”; „gene therapy”; Conclusions Early detection of respiratory and circulatory insufficiency improves the patient's quality of life. Many patients with an advanced stage of Duchenne muscular dystrophy need specialized treatment, for example, in the intensive care unit. Therefore there is an urgent need for new treatment methods, such as gene therapies, which can slow down or break the course of the disease. New discoveries and the implementation of new treatment standards can enhance the quality of life for patients and extend their lifespans.

Introduction and purpose Cariprazine is an atypical antipsychotic drug approved for the treatment of schizophrenia, as well as manic and mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. It functions as a dopamine multifunctional agent, a partial agonist at dopamine and serotonin receptors. Unlike the majority of antipsychotics, which primarily target positive symptoms through dopaminergic antagonism, often neglecting negative, cognitive, and affective symptoms, the unique cariprazine's pharmacological profile, particularly potent blockade of D3 dopamine receptors, suggests the potential for numerous clinical applications. The aim of this study is to present current knowledge of cariprazine, focusing particularly on its mechanism of action, potential applications, adverse effects, and pharmacokinetic properties that could impact its clinical use. Methods and materials A review of the literature available in the PubMed database was performed using the key words: cariprazine; atypical antipsychotic drug; antipsychotic medication; schizophrenia treatment; bipolar disorder treatment; mania treatment; depression treatment, dopamine agonist. Conclusions Cariprazine demonstrates a unique pharmacological profile, offering potential benefits in managing a wide range of psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (mania, depression, mixed episodes), unipolar depression, and co-occurring substance use disorders. Clinical studies have shown efficacy in reducing symptoms and improving negative and cognitive function, with a favorable metabolic profile, minimal impact on cardiovascular system, and generally mild adverse effect profile. However, further research is necessary to explore its full therapeutic potential and optimize its clinical use in diverse patient populations.

BackgroundThere is great potential for delivering cost-effective, quality health care for patients with chronic conditions through digital interventions. Managing chronic conditions often includes a substantial workload required for adhering to the treatment regimen and negative consequences on the patient’s function and well-being. This treatment burden affects adherence to treatment and disease outcomes. Digital interventions can potentially exacerbate the burden but also alleviate it. ObjectiveThe objective of this review is to identify, summarize, and synthesize the evidence of how digital interventions impact the treatment burden of people with chronic conditions. MethodsThe search, selection, and data synthesis processes were designed according to the PRISMA-P (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols) 2015. A systematic search was conducted on October 16, 2023, from databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ACM, PubMed Central, and CINAHL. ResultsPreliminary searches have been conducted, and screening has been started. The review is expected to be completed in October 2024. ConclusionsAs the number of patients with chronic conditions is increasing, it is essential to design new digital interventions for managing chronic conditions in a way that supports patients with their treatment burden. To the best of our knowledge, the proposed systematic review will be the first review that investigates the impact of digital interventions on the treatment burden of patients. The results of this review will contribute to the field of health informatics regarding knowledge of the treatment burden associated with digital interventions and practical implications for developing better digital health care for patients with chronic conditions. Trial RegistrationPROSPERO CRD42023477605; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=477605 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)DERR1-10.2196/54833

Neurofibromatosis is one of the most common genetic diseases. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. It is divided into two genetically distinct subtypes, characterised by multiple skin lesions and tumours of the peripheral and central nervous system. Neurofibromatosis type 1, or Recklinghausen's disease, is the most common phakomatosis. The disease is genetically determined by a mutation of the neurofibromin- 1 gene on chromosome 17. Neurofibromatosis type 2 accounts for 3% of all cases. The disease is genetically determined - caused by a mutation of the neurofibromin-2 gene on chromosome 22. The diagnostic and therapeutic process of neurofibromatosis is a major challenge for clinicians. Given the complexity of the problem, we have reviewed the literature on the diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities of the disease.

The average incidence of epilepsy worldwide is estimated at 7.60 cases per 1,000 inhabitants, with an average annual incidence of 67.77 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases. However, it is not a disease entity, but a set of symptoms that may occur against the background of various morphological and metabolic changes in the brain. Symptoms of epilepsy include epileptic seizures, i.e. temporary disturbances in the bioelectric activity of brain nerve cells. Epilepsy is a brain disorder characterized by a persistent predisposition to trigger seizures, and the condition has neurobiological, cognitive, psychological, and social consequences. Effective treatment of epilepsy may require the use of various methods. In this paper, we would like to present a case report on the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy using a vagus nerve stimulator (VNS). The described case may prove the effectiveness of treatment of focal drug-resistant epilepsy using vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). Choosing an appropriate, effective method of treating children with drug-resistant epilepsy is crucial; it is especially worth thinking about innovative methods such as VNS.

Background/Objectives: BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM, and CHEK2 are known cancer predisposition genes (CPGs), but tumor risk in patients with simultaneous pathogenic variants (PVs) in CPGs remains largely unknown. In this study, we describe six patients from five families with multiple cancers who coinherited a combination of PVs in these genes. Methods: PVs were identified using NGS DNA sequencing and were confirmed by Sanger. Results: Families 1, 2, and 3 presented PVs in BRCA2 and ATM, family 4 in BRCA2 and BRCA1, and family 5 in BRCA2 and CHEK2. PVs were identified using NGS DNA sequencing and were confirmed by Sanger. The first family included patients with kidney, prostate, and breast cancer, in addition to pancreatic adenocarcinomas. In the second family, a female had breast cancer, while a male from the third family had prostate, gastric, and pancreatic cancer. The fourth family included a male with pancreatic cancer, and the fifth family a female with breast cancer. Conclusions: The early age of diagnosis and the development of multiple cancers in the reported patients indicate a very high risk of cancer in double-heterozygous patients associated with PVs in HR-related CPGs. Therefore, in families with patients who differ from other family members in terms of phenotype, age of diagnosis, or type of cancer, the cascade testing needs to include the study of other CPGs.

Abstract The LAGOS‐US RESERVOIR data module classifies all 137,465 lakes ≥ 4 ha in the conterminous U.S. into three categories using a machine learning predictive model based on visual interpretation of lake outlines and a lake shape classification rule. Natural Lakes (NLs) are defined as naturally formed, lacking large, flow‐altering structures; Reservoir Class A's (RSVR_A) are defined as lakes likely human‐made or human‐altered by a large water control structure; and Reservoir Class B's (RSVR_Bs) are lakes likely human‐made but are not connected to streams and have a shape rare in NLs. We trained machine learning models on 12,162 manually classified lakes to predict assignment as an NL or RSVR, then further classified RSVRs based on NHD Fcodes, isolation, and angularity. Our classification indicates that > 46% of lakes ≥ 4 ha in the conterminous U.S. are reservoir lakes. These data can be easily combined with other LAGOS‐US modules and U.S. national databases for the broad‐scale study of reservoir lakes and NLs.

Abstract Background High fat diet impairs nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, and induces insulin resistance. The link between NO availability and the metabolic adaptation to a high fat diet is not well characterized. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of high fat diet on metabolism in mice with decreased (eNOS-/-) and increased (DDAH overexpressed) NO bioavailability. Methods eNOS-/- (n = 16), DDAH (n = 24), and WT (n = 19) mice were fed a high fat diet (HFD) for 13 weeks. Body weight, biochemical parameters, adipokines and insulin were monitored. The matrigel in vivo model with CD31 immunostaining was used to assess angiogenesis. Gene expression in adipose tissues was analyzed by microarray and Real Time PCR. Comparisons of the mean values were made using the unpaired Student t test and p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results eNOS-/- mice gained less weight than control WT and DDAH mice. In DDAH mice, a greater increase in serum adiponectin and a lesser increment in glucose level was observed. Fasting insulin and cholesterol levels remained unchanged. The angiogenic response was increased in DDAH mice. In adipose tissue of DDAH mice, genes characteristic of differentiated adipocytes were down-regulated, whereas in eNOS-/- mice, genes associated with adipogenesis, fatty acid and triglyceride synthesis were upregulated. Conclusions Our results indicate that increased NO availability attenuates some HFD induced alterations in metabolism and gene expression associated with insulin resistance.

This paper presents a review of composite structures in which aluminium alloys are used. Current trends in the research of composite structures with aluminium girders and their possible applications in structural engineering were shown. In the presented solutions, advantageous properties of aluminium alloys were exploited, such as high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance and recyclability. The authors demonstrated the structural behaviour of aluminium-concrete and aluminiumtimber composite beams based on their own tests as well as investigations presented in the literature. Furthermore, aluminium-concrete composite columns, a composite mullion made of an aluminium alloy and timber, and a military bridge consisting of aluminium truss components, a stay-in-place-form, reinforcement and concrete were presented. In addition to the description of the structural elements, the main conclusions from their experimental, theoretical and numerical analyses were also demonstrated in this paper. The connection of aluminium girders with concrete or timber slabs provided for the increase of the load-bearing capacity and stiffness, and it eliminated the problem of local buckling in girder flanges and lateral-torsional buckling of girders in the analysed solutions.

Abstract Background Obesity and its complications lead to vascular injury, atherosclerosis, diabetes and pathological angiogenesis. One of the models to study the obesity and its entanglements is the New Zealand Obese mice model. Aim of this study was to check the effect of high fat diet on changes in biochemical parameters as well as on process of angiogenesis in NZO mice. Methods NZO mice were fed with standard (ST) or high fat (HF) diet for seven weeks. Body weight and serum biochemical parameters were monitored. The PECAM1 positive vessel-like structures immunostaining, as well as the gene expression of the matrigel penetrating cells by microarray (confirmed by real-time PCR method) were analyzed. Results Mice fed with HF diet developed obesity. Number of newly created vessels with lumen was correlated with hyperglycemia and animal weight gain. The number of PECAM1 positive cells in matrigel tended to increase during HF diet. Microarray results revealed changes in gene expression (activation of the oxidative stress and insulin resistance, inhibition of apoptosis and cell differentiation), however without markers of endothelial cell network maturation. Conclusion Observed changes in the NZO mice on HF diet argue for the hyperglycemia related activation of angiogenesis, leading to the formation of pathological, immature network.

Background: The direct lateral (DL) approach to total hip arthroplasty is more commonly used than the newer direct anterior (DA) approach. Both approaches use collared or collarless femoral stems. We sought to assess implant stability of stem designs implanted with the DL approach and compare outcomes from this cohort with those of a previously reported cohort of patients who underwent arthroplasty with a DA approach. We also sought to determine if early recovery influences differences in migration. Methods: Patients underwent total hip arthroplasty using the DL or the DA approach and were randomized to receive either a collared or collarless, cementless femoral stem. On the day of surgery and at 6 follow-up visits through to 1 year, patients underwent supine radiostereometric imaging to track implant migration. At follow-up visits, patients performed an instrumented walking test to assess their functional ability and logged an average daily step count to assess their activity levels. We assessed whether patient function and activity were correlated with migration. Results: Stem design did not have a significant effect on migration for the DL group (p = 0.894). Compared with the DA group, the DL group migrated significantly less for both collared (p = 0.031) and collarless (p = 0.002) stems. Migration was not correlated with function or activity at any time point (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Most implant migration occurred from the day of surgery to 2 weeks after the operation and stabilized thereafter, suggesting adequate fixation and a low risk for aseptic loosening in both patient groups. Contexte : La voie laterale directe (LD) est utilisee plus frequemment pour effectuer une arthroplastie totale de la hanche (ATH) que la voie anterieure directe (AD), plus recente. Les 2 approches utilisent des tiges femorales avec ou sans collerette. Nous avons evalue la stabilite des modeles de tiges implantes par voie LD et compare les issues de cette cohorte a celles d'une cohorte de patients ayant deja fait l'objet d'une etude qui avaient subi une arthroplastie par voie AD. Nous avons aussi cherche a determiner si le debut du retablissement avait une influence sur des differences dans le risque de migration. Methodes : Des patients devant subir une arthroplastie par voie LD ou AD ont ete repartis aleatoirement en 2 groupes : tiges femorales sans ciment avec ou sans collerette. Le jour de l'intervention et durant 6 visites de suivi la premiere annee, les patients ont subi un examen d'imagerie radiostereometrique en decubitus visant a mesurer la migration de l'implant. Durant les visites de suivi, ils ont fait un test de marche instrumente visant a evaluer leur capacite fonctionnelle et enregistre leur nombre moyen de pas quotidiens, ce qui permet d'evaluer leur niveau d'activite. Nous avons cherche a determiner s'il y avait une correlation entre la migration observee, et la capacite fonctionnelle et le niveau d'activite des patients. Resultats : Le modele de tige n'a pas eu d'effet significatif sur la migration pour le groupe LD (p = 0,894). Par contre, comparativement au groupe AD, on a enregistre chez les patients du groupe LD une migration significativement inferieure pour les tiges avec collerette (p = 0,031) et sans collerette (p = 0,002). Aucune correlation n'a ete observee entre la migration et la capacite fonctionnelle ou le niveau d'activite, peu importe le moment de l'evaluation (p > 0,05). Conclusion : L'essentiel de la migration des implants est survenu dans les 2 semaines suivant l'intervention, puis le processus s'est stabilise, ce qui semble indiquer une fixation adequate et un faible risque de descellement aseptique dans les 2 groupes de patients., Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the only viable treatment for patients with end-stage osteoarthritis of the hip, and is successful and reliable in improving patients' quality of life, restoring function [...]

The paper presents a comparison of three strain measurement methods. The mechanical parameters of S355 grade steel (yield strength, tensile strength, modulus of elasticity) were determined in tensile tests. Strains were measured using high resolution measuring instruments: an extensometer, a strain gauge and an ARAMIS 3D DIC system. In this paper, these three instruments have been used simultaneously in tensile tests for the first time. The results indicate that the values of the Young’s modulus obtained using different techniques were similar when each instrument measured strain on the same side of the sample. Small differences were connected with different gauge lengths and their locations. The values of the Young’s modulus determined on the opposite sides of the samples were more varied even when the same method was used (strain gauge measurements). For this reason, it is recommended to use double-sided averaging instruments when the Young’s modulus is determined. The strain-curves obtained from the strain gauge measurements were incomplete and they came to an end at the end of the yield plateau due to the fact that they were damaged when the values of strain were relatively high. The extensometer was used up to the point where the strain reached 0.3% and then the strain was measured based on the distance between the machine clamps. The stress-strain curves obtained from the DIC system were complete because the system was able to monitor the sample until the very end of the tests.

This study researched the use of biofilms to remove nitrogen compounds from municipal sewages at low temperatures, especially in winter. An aluminosilicate substrate was used to create a biofilm, which has an affinity for ammonium ions. The selection of biofilm-forming microorganisms has been shown to occur on aluminosilicate. This substrate is mainly inhabited by microorganisms that remove nitrogen compounds. As a result, microorganisms protected against external factors in the biofilm effectively remove nitrogen compounds. The TN content in sewage treated at a temperature of 10 °C was of a 4 mg/L order and was 3–5 times lower than in the reference system (classical conditions). This process involves shortened nitrification/denitrification such as Anammox. As a result of a given process, CO2 emissions were reduced and much smaller amounts of NOx were produced, positively impacting the ongoing climate changes. Microbiological DNA/RNA tests have shown that the biofilm is primarily composed of archaea and bacteria that remove nitrogen compounds, including those that oxidize ammonia.

BACKGROUND: The Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) showed a good prognosis in Erbil city. However, a number of deaths were reported. The monitoring and treatment strategies of HL had improved in the last decade. AIMS: The aims of this study were to evaluate the prognostic value of interim positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scan in HL patients and predicting the survival outcome in addition to effect on progression-free survival (PFS) of HL patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in Nanakali Hospital in Erbil city, Kurdistan region, Iraq, through reviewing data of patients with HL from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2019, on a sample of 75 HL patients. The diagnosis of HL was accomplished by the physician regarding lymph node biopsy by the World Health Organization criteria. The PET/CT scan was done after two treatment cycles. PET/CT of HL patients was done in a private center in Erbil city (Media Diagnostic Center). RESULTS: The mean overall survival duration of HL patients was 5.39 years with an overall survival rate of 92%, and the mean PFS duration of HL patients was 5.04 years with PFS rate of 76%. The mean overall survival of HL patients with positive interim PET/CT (4 years and rate 75%) was lower than the mean overall survival of HL patients with negative interim PET/CT (7.2 years and rate of 95.2%) with a significant difference (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The interim PET/CT scan is useful in prognosis of patients with HL and predicting overall survival and mortality.

BACKGROUND: Adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has a dismal outcome within the optimal situations as the 5-year overall survival (OS) is not reaching 40%. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcome of adult ALL in Erbil, Iraq, and to see the factors predicting better survival among them. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We analyzed data from 71 adult ALL patients aged 14–81 years (mean age: 28.6 years). Diagnosis is based on the peripheral blood film, bone marrow examination, and flow cytometry. RESULTS: The median OS was 21 months and the median relapse-free survival (RFS) was 13 months. The 3-year OS and the 3-year RFS were 49.3% and 40.8%, respectively, while the 5-year OS and the 5-year RFS were 37.5% and 32.5%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Factors predicting better survival included in the study; age at diagnosis, remission achievement at first induction, risk assessment, and allogeneic stem cell transplantation optimal response.

Introduction and purpose Sleep apnea is a disturbance of sleep that affects about 10% of adult population and is not easily detected due to unspecific symptoms. The aim of this literature review is to present, respectively, obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea symptoms and integrate the available data in the literature regarding the pathogenesis and treatment methods. Materials and methods A review of literature was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar database. The search criteria included keywords such as sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea treatment, central sleep apnea treatment. State of knowledge Sleep disturbances that involve breathing can be categorized as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea. First one is associated with the obstruction of the upper airways and the second one -- with malfunctioning breathing generator in the pontomedullary breathing pacemaker. Symptoms are unspecific which makes diagnostic process difficult. However, the right diagnosis and treatment may prevent patients from developing many cardiovascular diseases. Treatment options for OSA include: CPAP, reducing body weight, changing sleep position, braces and surgeries; for CSA: CPAP and acetazolamide. Conclusions OSA and CSA need to be further investigated in order to find more precise ways of diagnosis and treatment, as these diseases remain underreported. It is worth noting, that these conditions predispose to serious diseases, e.g. stroke. Therefore, developing new treatment techniques would beneficial for the health of population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurofibromatosis is one of the most common genetic diseases. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. It is divided into two genetically distinct subtypes, characterized by multiple skin lesions and tumors of the peripheral and central nervous system. Neurofibromatosis type 1, or Recklinghausen's disease, is the most common phakomatosis. The disease is genetically determined by a mutation of the neurofibromin-1 gene on chromosome 17. Neurofibromatosis type 2 accounts for 3% of all cases. The disease is genetically determined - caused by a mutation of the neurofibromin-2 gene on chromosome 22. The diagnostic and therapeutic process of neurofibromatosis is a major challenge for clinicians. Given the complexity of the problem, we have reviewed the literature on the diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the authors analysed several variants of connections between a block rail (60 mm × 60 mm) and a crane runway beam (IKS 800-6). They compared local vertical compressive stress in the crane runway beam web, calculated using an analytical approach and numerical simulations. In the case of the continuous block rail rigidly fixed to the beam flange, satisfactory convergence was obtained. For the remaining types of connections the results based on the analytical method were different from the results of the numerical simulations. The difference resulted from the fact that the analytical method did not take into account the crane rail joint. Furthermore, the impact of the elastomeric bearing pad on the local stress value was taken into account in a simplified manner in the analytical method by increasing the effective length by approximately 30%. The local vertical compressive stress in the crane runway beam web was significantly affected by the connection between the rail and the crane runway beam, the crane rail joint type, the use of the elastomeric bearing pad, the length of the elastomeric bearing pad, and the crane rail wear.

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common public health problem in metabolism. Metformin is the oral hypoglycemic agent used as a first line together with life style modification in type 2 diabetes patients worldwide. Continuous metformin therapy increases the risk of vitamin B12 insufficiency, and its medical consequences in T2DM patients. Objective: To detect the prevalence of serum vitamin B12 deficiency in T2DM who has been treated with metformin in Erbil Province. Patients and Methods: The study involved 200 cases (100 patients and 100 controls) that met the study's basic criteria. A completed questionnaire, and a blood test for serum vitamin B12 levels were performed. A deficiency of vitamin B12 is defined as

Abstract Background The spread of the COVID‐19 pandemic has led to a rapid reorganization in all human and hospital activities, with impact on cancer patients. Aim An analysis of cancer patients fears, and awareness of COVID‐19 has been done in this study. Methods and results We analyzed cancer patients' reactions to the pandemic and their perception of oncological care reorganization, through a 12‐item survey, proposed at the peak of pandemic and 3 months later. Overall, 237 patients were included in the study. During the peak of pandemic 34.6% of patients were more worried about COVID‐19 than cancer versus 26.4% in the post‐acute phase (p = .013). Although 49.8% of patients in the acute phase and 42.3% in the post‐acute phase considered their risk of death if infected ≥50%, and more than 70% of patients thought to be at higher risk of complications, the majority of them did not consider the possibility to stop or delay their treatment. Patients were more interested in following news about COVID‐19 than cancer and they complied with all preventive measures in more than 90% of the cases. Conclusions Although cancer patients worried about COVID‐19 and evaluated the risk of complication or death due to COVID‐19 as extremely high, they were still asking for the best oncological treatment.

This paper presents a study of laminated veneer lumber panels subjected to bending. Laminated veneer lumber (LVL) is a sustainable building material manufactured by laminating 3-4-mm-thick wood veneers, using adhesives. The authors of this article studied the behaviour of type R laminated veneer lumber (LVL R), in which all veneers are glued together longitudinally – along the grain. Tensile, compressive and bending tests of LVL R were conducted. The short-term behaviour, load carrying-capacity, mode of failure and load-deflection of the LVL R panels were investigated. The authors observed failure modes at the collapse load, associated with the delamination and cracking of veneer layers in the tensile zone. What is more, two non-linear finite element models of the tested LVL R panel were developed and verified against the experimental results. In the 3D finite element model, LVL R was described as an elastic-perfectly plastic material. In the 2D finite element model, on the other hand, it was described as an orthotropic material and its failure was captured using the Hashin damage model. The comparison of the numerical and experimental analyses demonstrated that the adopted numerical models yielded the results similar to the experimental results.

The aim of this article is to present Namibian and German discourses on the reparations for the genocide of the Herero and Nama peoples. Guided by the social‑constructivist epistemology, the authors sought to present the German government’s and Namibians’ understandings and positions on the issue of reparations instead of the complex explanation of this phenomenon. The authors conclude that while the Namibian government does not want to allow the Herero to negotiate unilaterally with Germany (this position is supported by the German government), the German government has admittedly stated that the crime committed during the Second Reich would have been genocide (“by today’s standards”) but simultaneously it does not intend to take any financial responsibility for the first genocide of the 20th century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Caesarean sections often have no urgent indication and are electively planned. Research showed that elective caesarean section should not be performed until 39 + (0–6) weeks of gestation to ensure best neonatal and maternal health if there are no contraindications. This was recommended by various guidelines published in the last two decades. With this systematic review, we are looking for implementation strategies trying to implement these recommendations to reduce elective caesarean section before 39 + (0–6) weeks of gestation. Methods We performed a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and CINAHL on 3rd of March 2021. We included studies that assessed implementation strategies aiming to postpone elective caesarean section to ≥ 39 + (0–6) weeks of gestation. There were no restrictions regarding the type of implementation strategy or reasons for elective caesarean section. Our primary outcome was the rate of elective caesarean sections before 39 + (0–6) weeks of gestation. We used the ROBINS-I Tool for the assessment of risk of bias. We did a narrative analysis of the results. Results We included 10 studies, of which were 2 interrupted time series and 8 before-after studies, covering 205,954 elective caesarean births. All studies included various types of implementation strategies. All implementation strategies showed success in decreasing the rate of elective caesarean sections performed < 39 + (0–6) weeks of gestation. Risk difference differed from − 7 (95% CI − 8; − 7) to − 45 (95% CI − 51; − 31). Three studies reported the rate of neonatal intensive care unit admission and showed little reduction. Conclusion This systematic review shows that all presented implementation strategies to reduce elective caesarean section before 39 + (0–6) weeks of gestation are effective. Reduction rates differ widely and it remains unclear which strategy is most successful. Strategies used locally in one hospital seem a little more effective. Included studies are either before-after studies (8) or interrupted time series (2) and the overall quality of the evidence is rather low. However, most of the studies identified specific barriers in the implementation process. For planning an implementation strategy to reduce elective caesarean section before 39 + (0–6) weeks of gestation, it is necessary to consider specific barriers and facilitators and take all obstetric personal into account. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42017078231

Abstract Area analysis of thermal images can detect delayed healing in diabetes foot ulcers, but not venous leg ulcers (VLU) assessed in the home environment. This study proposes using textural analysis of thermal images to predict the healing trajectory of venous leg ulcers assessed in home settings. Participants with VLU were followed over twelve weeks. Digital images, thermal images and planimetry of wound tracings of the ulcers of 60 older participants was recorded in their homes by nurses. Participants were labelled as healed or unhealed based on status of the wound at the 12th week follow up. The weekly change in textural features was computed and the first two principal components were obtained. 60 participants (aged 80.53 ± 11.94 years) with 72 wounds (mean area 21.32 ± 51.28cm2) were included in the study. The first PCA of the change in textural features in week 2 with respect to week 0 were statistically significant for differentiating between healed and unhealed cases. Textural analysis of thermal images is an effective method to predict in week 2 which venous leg ulcers will not heal by week 12 among older people whose wounds are being managed in their homes.

Introduction and purpose: A collection of symptoms known as cerebral palsy first manifest in early childhood and result in profound physical impairment. Cerebral palsy is thought to affect 1 in 500 live births, or roughly 17 million people worldwide. The type of cerebral palsy determines the clinical symptoms. Movement coordination disorders, epilepsy, muscle weakness, and feeding difficulties are the most common symptoms. The purpose of this article is to familiarize readers with the options for nutritional therapy for cerebral palsy patients. Material and methods The following review was based on articles from the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Key search terms included cerebral palsy; nutrition; treatment; gut microbiota.. State of knowledge Early identification of malnutrition symptoms and appropriate interventions, such as the implantation of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube in patients who are unable to swallow food, are the cornerstones of nutritional therapy for cerebral palsy patients. Dysphagia is a major problem in the population of patients with cerebral palsy, and multidisciplinary therapy is necessary for them. Patients' serum vitamin D levels are also influenced by their diet; 50% of those with cerebral palsy have a deficiency in this nutrient. Conclusions For people with cerebral palsy, nutrition is very important. Premature death may arise from malnutrition brought on by the disease's advancement. As a result, individuals with cerebral palsy need to receive specialized care that keeps an eye out for warning indicators and stops malnutrition from getting worse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]