European Union Standards Research Articles

Online Forum Conversations on Abortion in Poland: Navigating Medical, Emotional, and Legal Challenges

Abstract Background Abortion is a common medical procedure worldwide, but access is restricted in Poland, forcing many women to seek abortions without medical supervision. This can lead to health risks and reflects broader challenges regarding reproductive rights and healthcare. Methods We conducted a qualitative and quantitative analysis of online forums discussing abortion to understand the challenges faced by women in Poland. Data was gathered from popular abortion forums identified through Google searches, with a pilot study refining the research focus. Results A total of 13,397 responses from 370 threads across 4 forums were analyzed. The most prevalent theme was the ‘Abortion Process Progression,’ indicating a strong need for information and support. Discussions on ‘Emotional and Psychological Aspects’ and ‘Medical and Pharmacological Aspects’ highlighted the need for holistic care. This suggests that legal restrictions and fear of repercussions hinder women’s access to professional assistance, exacerbating health disparities and inequalities. Conclusions This study offers a general look at the abortion experiences of Polish women, revealing challenges that often go unnoticed by policymakers and healthcare professionals. By analyzing online forums, it uncovers nuanced issues such as the lack of access to medical supervision, information gaps, and emotional support, highlighting discrepancies between policy and needs. The findings call for decriminalizing abortion, launching educational campaigns to combat misinformation, and strengthening support systems, aligning Poland’s reproductive health services with European Union standards, ensuring women’s access to safe and supportive healthcare. Key messages • This study shows how Poland’s restrictive abortion laws push women to online forums, revealing medical, emotional, and logistical challenges, emphasizing the need for care and accurate information. • The research highlights the need for decriminalizing abortion, addressing misinformation, and support Poland’s reproductive health services with EU standards, ensuring safer care for women.

From neighbour to member: Assessing Moldova’s EU membership perspectives

This article examines Moldova’s prospective membership in the European Union (EU) in the wake of the EU’s renewed enlargement drive which was prompted by Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. It explores the dynamics shaping Moldova’s accession path, spotlighting obstacles to integration that official reports appear to overlook or underplay. The article compares EU and Moldovan documents, civil society reports, and insights from interviews with Moldovan officials and civil society representatives to gain a nuanced picture of the evolving situation. Attention is also given to the distinct characteristics of the currently unfolding enlargement process, including its sense of urgency and geopolitical significance which have led to calls for an expedited or ‘fast-track’ accession. Findings note that despite Moldova’s impressive progress in aligning with EU standards in many areas, substantial hurdles in justice reform, combating corruption and de-oligarchisation persist. Incomplete public administration reforms, uneven civil society involvement in decision-making, and issues associated with the Transnistria conflict also have consequences for Moldova’s EU prospects, especially if an expedited version of enlargement occurs.

Organization of remote work: Ukrainian legislation and standards of the European Union

The article explores remote work in Ukraine and its alignment with European Union (EU) standards. It analyses the Ukrainian Labour Code and the 2002 EU Framework Agreement on Telework. It is emphasized reveals both similarities and differences between the two documents. Both emphasize the voluntary nature of telework, ensuring equal rights and protections for remote workers as those on-site. They prioritize health, safety, privacy, and confidentiality, mandating employers to provide necessary equipment and maintain safe working conditions. The author emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the concepts of “remote work” and “home-based work”. It is established that the term “remote work” differs from “telework” in its international understanding and encompasses a broader scope than home-based work. However, a comparison between the definitions of telework provided in the European Framework Agreement on Telework of 2002 and remote work as outlined in the Ukrainian Labour Code concludes their synonymity. Other differences have also been scrutinized in the article: Ukraine allows employees combine remote work with office work (hybrid work), while the EU doesn’t address this yet. Ukraine also guarantees the right to disconnect, allowing remote workers to switch off after work. The EU is working on updates to cover these areas and create a more consistent approach across member States: This might include the right to disconnect, equal treatment for remote workers, and clearer rules for hybrid work. It was concluded that both regions need further development: Ukraine needs to address remote work abroad and data security, while the EU needs to modernize its framework.

Effectiveness of physiotherapy rehabilitation approaches for Parkinson's disease: A Durrës case study.

The article's significance lies in the substantial rise in the risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD), necessitating the exploration of various approaches to rehabilitation and medical treatment. The purpose of the article is to detect the direct effect of physiotherapy for patients with PD and to identify how it helps in slowing down cardio-pulmonary failure, improving the posture, balance, bradykinesia and tremor. The research utilised clinical data from 407 PD patients aged 30-100 years at the Central Polyclinic of Durrës, spanning 2011-2022, and included a systematic literature review and statistical analysis comparing physiotherapy outcomes with European Union standards. The research demonstrates the efficiency of physiotherapy in the short and long term in the treatment of PD for patients and medical personnel. All information can be used to increase the functional abilities of patients and minimise complications after physiotherapy and to estimate the effectiveness of different exercises in delaying PD. Older adults, particularly those aged 71-80, are most affected by PD, with males more likely to be diagnosed. Physiotherapy rehabilitation improves motor symptoms, posture, and balance in 30-80-year-olds, but its effectiveness declines with age. Advanced rehabilitation methods in Italy lead to better outcomes, suggesting the potential for improvement in Durres disease. The study emphasises the need for improved rehabilitation strategies for older patients by recommending tailored programs, advanced methods, standardisation, training, and long-term monitoring. Further research should concentrate on the long-term sustainability of physiotherapy benefits, the development of targeted interventions for older patients, and the integration of innovative therapeutic approaches.

The transformative role of the European Union on Turkish civil society a legal framework analysis from recognition to protection

Under the influence of the European Union (EU), the legal framework of civil society in Turkey has undergone significant changes. However, have the normative framework and policy demands of the EU been able to play a transformative role in shaping the legal organization of civil society in Turkey? In this study, we aimed to examine the transformative role of the EU in shaping the legal structure of civil society in Turkey. In the study, the Turkey Progress Reports published by the EU since 2005 were systematically examined, and the legal development of civil society was analyzed. The transformative role of the EU in shaping the legal structure of civil society in Turkey is of critical importance for democratization and strengthening the rule of law in the country. Efforts to align with EU standards have increased the legal recognition and protection of civil society in Turkey. Additionally, the financial and technical support provided by the EU has encouraged legal reforms aimed at enhancing the capacity of civil society organizations in Turkey. Nevertheless, further steps are necessary to fully strengthen and protect the legal structure of civil society.

Securing Privacy: Safeguarding Against Cyber Threats in the UAE and Morocco

This research evaluates the effectiveness of the current legal frameworks in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Morocco in organizing cybersecurity risks and safeguarding the privacy of individuals in the digital world. The research focuses on assessing the response of the legislation of these countries to the constantly evolving cybersecurity threats and determining its adequacy in ensuring the protection of the privacy of individuals while complying with European Union (EU) standards. The study explores different legal perspectives on protecting privacy rights by comparing the legislation from Morocco and the UAE with recent EU regulations. It recommended that effective control over electronic services be sought to mitigate illegal forms of privacy and personal data abuse. The legislative body of the UAE is urged to develop legislation on the right to information, taking cues from the legislative actions of Morocco. Furthermore, the Moroccan legislature emphasizes expanding the definition of personal data beyond the confines of sound and image.

Nigeria's Relations with the European Union: An Analysis of the Economic Partnership Agreement

The Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Nigeria and the European Union (EU) aims to enhance economic cooperation and trade liberalization. However, it has sparked significant debate due to its potential implications for Nigeria's economic development and sovereignty. This paper critically analyzes the EPA, focusing on the key issues, challenges, and implications for Nigeria. The core concern is whether the EPA's benefits, such as increased market access and development aid, outweigh the drawbacks, including potential revenue loss, unfair competition, and stringent EU standards that could disadvantage Nigerian industries. The analysis employs a qualitative approach, reviewing existing literature, policy documents, and expert opinions to assess the economic, social, and political impacts of the EPA on Nigeria. This includes a comparative analysis of similar agreements between the EU and other African countries to draw relevant parallels and insights. The findings reveal that while the EPA offers opportunities for market access and development aid, it also poses significant risks to Nigeria's economic stability and sovereignty. The paper concludes that Nigeria must carefully weigh these factors, considering its economic priorities and readiness to meet the agreement's requirements. Future relations between the EU and Nigeria will depend on managing these challenges and opportunities, ensuring the partnership promotes mutual growth without compromising Nigeria's autonomy.

Levels of organochlorine pesticides in onion and tomato samples from selected towns of Jimma Zone, Ethiopia

This study aimed to determine residues of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in tomato and onion samples collected from selected markets in the Jimma zone. A QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) method was used for sample preparation followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for OCPs analysis. The method used showed wide linear ranges from 5-50 μg/L for all eight pesticides, with R2 values ≥ 0.992. The LOD values for the pesticides tested ranged from 0.14 μg/kg for p,p'-DDE to 2.40 μg/kg for p,p-DDT. LOQ values ranged from 0.46 μg/kg for p,p-DDE to 8.32 μg/kg for p,p'-DDT. The recoveries ranged from 74.84 – 109.45 % except for β-BHC (67.82 %). While most of the OCPs in the onion and tomato samples met European Union (EU) and Codex standards, some exceeded the limits. Methoxychlor and p,p'-DDT in onions, and methoxychlor, p,p'-DDT, α-BHC, and δ-BHC in some tomatoes, were detected above the permitted levels. Specific OCPs were not detected in some samples including aldrin in Meki Tomato (Mek-T), γ-chlordane in Agaro Tomato (Ag-T), and p,p'-DDE in Gera Tomato (Ger-T). The residual concentrations of OCPs varied among the samples. Among tomatoes, Gera had the highest percentage of detected OCPs contaminants (37 %), followed by Agaro (34.34 %) and Meki (28.55 %). Similarly, Sire onion (SrO) had the highest percentage of detected OCPs (28 %) compared to Minjer (25.16 %), Shewa Robit (25.10 %), and Sudan onion (22.25 %). In conclusion, most tomato and onion samples analyzed in this study contained OCP residues highlighting the importance of conducting a consumer health risk assessment.

Asean Legal Framework for Cooperation against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (iuu): Significance, Challenges and Proposed Solutions

Abstract Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (iuu) fishing is an act that is provided for in many international legal instruments, causing enormous impacts on biodiversity and the environment, sustainable development as well as entailing serious economic impacts. For that reason, the European Union has taken strict action against fishing vessels and iuu-supporting countries through the mechanism of “yellow card”, and even “red card” on aquatic products imported into the EU, based on meeting EU standards for iuu fishing. Not only Vietnam but many countries in asean have also been sanctioned by such cards from the European Union (EU). Not only has this measure greatly impacted each country’s export industry, but it also harms asean as a whole. Establishing and developing an asean cooperation mechanism for combating iuu fishing is meaningful in that context. The article stresses on the importance of a legal framework for combating iuu fishing in asean; and discusses the challenges to developing such a framework. Finally, the article proposes solutions to realize asean’s cooperation model.

Aircraft-related noises increased but compensation decreased in Chinese airports

The rapid development of the aviation industry has brought convenience and noise hazards, altering the modes of travel but adversely affecting public health. Noise pollution is one of the essential factors affecting public health. This study offers a comprehensive examination of noise pollution data associated with the aviation industry, focusing on an array of airlines operating over 400 domestic routes within China from 2014 to 2019. It scrutinizes the noise emissions during the Lateral, Flyover, and Approach phases. It employs European Union standards to derive a formula for noise compensation relative to passenger volume, elucidating the quantum of noise indemnity allocable per passenger. (1) An upward trend in noise emissions is observed annually within China's civil aviation sector, with marked disparities in emission levels across various airports and airlines. (2) The mean annual value of noise compensation has shown a general decline, with China Express Airlines assuming a principal role in these compensations. (3) There is a correlation between noise compensation, noise emissions, and passenger volumes. Utilizing aircraft with low-emission and high passenger capacities significantly reduces airline compensation costs and safeguards the health of passengers and nearby residents.

ევროპის საბჭოს 2023 წლის რეკომენდაცია დაზარალებულის უფლებების, სერვისებისა და მხარდაჭერის შესახებ (მისი მნიშვნელობა და ნოვაციები)

Since 1985, the Council of Europe has actively worked to enhance the legal standing of victims within the criminal justice system. It has adopted several legal acts that establish European standards for victims. In response to events occurring at the international level and the findings of victimological studies, the Council of Europe recognized the need to enhance the mechanisms for victim protection. Therefore, on March 15, 2023, the Ministerial Committee adopted a recommendation on the rights, services, and support for victims. Although non-binding, this recommendation holds great significance for member states because of the standards it establishes. It introduces innovations, expands on European Union standards, and reaffirms the victim's importance in the criminal justice system.

Bridging Gaps in Translation Studies: Implementing European Union Standards in Uzbekistan

Bridging Gaps in Translation Studies: Implementing European Union Standards in Uzbekistan

Plasmonic AgNPs reinforced flexible hydrogel Surface-Enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensor for in-situ detection of curved samples

In-situ detection of analytes on curved surfaces is a persistent and great challenge in the application of SERS technique. A hydrogel-based flexible SERS substrate demonstrates a unique charm for providing close contact to the real-sample surface but limited by its weak enhancement capability in the quantitative analysis. Herein, we report a reinforced hydrogel by reduction of plasmonic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on a PNIPAM membrane with the aid of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) surfactant. The modification of AgNPs on PNIPAM endows the AgNPs/PNIPAM composite hydrogel with good mechanical properties and reinforced swelling property. Moreover, the AgNPs/PNIPAM hydrogel-based SERS sensor exhibits an enhanced SERS sensitivity as well as improved signal uniformity (RSD ＜10 %), and the detection concentration for pesticide molecules can be down to 10-9 M. Due to the fingerprint feature of SERS, multicomponent detection of pesticide mixtures was readily realized. In addition, the flexible AgNPs/PNIPAM hydrogel was successfully applied to the curved apple surface for SERS detection. Notably, it is capable of achieving qualitative and quantitative analyses of different pesticides, which has lower analytical concentrations than European Union (EU) standards, indicating the potential applications in rapid in-situ pesticide analysis.

Commercialisation of Intellectual Property: A Comparative Analysis of Georgia and Estonia

Abstract Commercialisation of intellectual property (IP) constitutes a vital part of a state’s economy and signifi cantly contributes to the development and success of any innovative project. At the same time, commercialisation of IP is directly linked to the adopted legislation on patent rights as it regulates the protection and exploitation of IP. This article seeks to compare the IP commercialisation frameworks in Georgia and Estonia and identify the challenges encountered in patent protection mechanisms in Georgia. Estonia and Georgia are both located in the Eastern European region and share similar legal systems and constitutions. By aligning its legislative framework with European Union standards and supporting universities and fostering a culture of innovation, Estonia sets a notable example in IP commercialisation. However, Georgia’s legislative framework still lacks certain elements that are crucial for developing IP commercialisation. The low number of registered patent applications in Georgia indicates the challenges and obstacles in this fi eld. The comparison of legal frameworks and practices in these countries can provide important insights into the challenges and solutions in IP commercialisation. The article examines how inefficient legislative framework leads to inconsistent patent protection mechanisms in Georgia, creating barriers in IP commercialisation, while underlining Estonia’s success in innovation and the establishment of a progressive IP commercialisation landscape. The article also presents a set of recommendations for Georgia to align its framework with EU standards, initiating joining the European Patent Convention, strengthening IP enforcement, and promoting open IP policies in universities, following Estonia’s model.

Legal amendments on the reorganization of business entities

Legal amendments on the reorganization of business entities

CHALLENGES AND PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN TRANSLATING LEGAL AND TECHNICAL TEXTS IN THE FOOD PRODUCTION INDUSTRY

Translating scientific and technical literature in the field of engineering and technology for the food industry is both challenging and intriguing, much like any translation work in scientific and technical domains. This area has distinct characteristics that set it apart. Practical experience with food product features and their verbal representation through taster's perception of a property involves individual professional experience and knowledge of analysis methodology, alongside unique complex compromise. This compromise stems from terms used in sensory analysis suggests that each combination of mental attitudes shaped by characteristics of the tasters, such as theanatomical structure and condition of each individual's oral cavity. Consequently, a single term may vary in its connotation each time it is used, reflecting different understandings. The practical outcomes of translation work focusing on profile structure analysis are documented in a multilingual glossary of pertinent terms. Examples of translation activities are provided, illustrating the application of professional terms from the meat industry, covering both products and specialized technological equipment. To ensure effective information retrieval from scientific and technical sources in countries with established beet-sugar production, a glossary of terms related to beet-sugar production was compiled. This glossary encompasses 444 terminological phonemes in Ukrainian, with corresponding terms in English, German, French, and three Slavic languages. The glossary includes fundamental terminology and groups terminological phonemes by stages in the beet-sugar production process, with each group covering related processes, equipment, materials, and products. Additionally, the article discusses the organizational and practical aspects of translating regulatory texts as part of harmonizing with European Union standards (EN), specifically those governing safety and hygiene rules for food industry equipment. This section underscores the significance of precise translation to ensure compliance with these standards and maintain industry safety.

Albania and the European Integration

This study delves into the evolution of Albania's European integration process, focusing on various critical aspects. We examine the legislative and institutional reforms undertaken by Albania to meet the Copenhagen criteria and European Union standards. Specifically, we scrutinize the sectors of justice, public administration, and fundamental rights, assessing both progress made and lingering challenges. Furthermore, we explore the economic impact of European integration on Albania, evaluating how opening up to European markets and adopting common norms have influenced economic growth, employment, and the country's competitiveness. We also analyze social dynamics, examining how the integration process has shaped Albanian society, impacting culture, education, and social cohesion. From a geopolitical perspective, we consider Albania's strategic position in the Western Balkans and how this may affect regional dynamics and the country's role within the European Union. Finally, we discuss future prospects, exploring remaining challenges and outlining the opportunities that European integration could offer to Albania politically, economically, and socially. Received: 25 December 2023 / Accepted: 25 February 2024 / Published: 23 April 2024

Food-Grade Expression of Two Laccases in Pichia pastoris and Study on Their Enzymatic Degradation Characteristics for Mycotoxins.

Mycotoxin contamination poses substantial health risks to humans and animals. In this study, the two laccases PpLac1 and AoLac2 from Pleurotus pulmonarius and Aspergillus oryzae were selected and heterologously expressed in Pichia pastoris in a food-grade manner to detoxify aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), zearalenone (ZEN), and deoxynivalenol (DON). Both laccases exhibited degradation activity toward these three mycotoxins, while the efficiency of these for DON was relatively low. Therefore, molecular docking between these laccases and DON was conducted to analyze their potential interaction mechanisms. Furthermore, the degradation conditions of AFB1 and ZEN by the two laccases were optimized, and the optimal degradation rates for AFB1 and ZEN by PpLac1 reached 78.51 and 78.90%, while those for AFB1 and ZEN by AoLac2 reached 72.27 and 80.60%, respectively. The laccases PpLac1 and AoLac2 successfully transformed AFB1 and ZEN into the compounds AFQ1 and 15-OH-ZEN, which were 90 and 98% less toxic than the original compounds, respectively. Moreover, the culture supernatants demonstrated effective mycotoxin degradation results for AFB1 and ZEN in contaminated feed samples. The residual levels of AFB1 and ZEN in all samples ranged from 6.61 to 8.72 μg/kg and 3.44 to 98.15 μg/kg, respectively, and these levels were below the limit set by the European Union standards. All of the results in this study indicated that the two laccases have excellent application potential in the feed industry.

Development of Green and Facile Sample Preparation Method for Determination of Seven Neonicotinoids in Fresh Vegetables, and Dissipation and Risk Assessment of Imidacloprid and Dinotefuran.

A facile procedure for extracting and determining seven neonicotinoids was developed. Water was the only extraction solvent without phase separation and cleanup steps. The method was validated according to European Union standards, and the values obtained were compared with the criteria. The accuracy values were between 99.8% (thiamethoxam) and 106.8% (clothianidin) at the spiking levels of 0.01, 0.1, and 1 mg/kg in the tested matrices. The precision as pooled RSD values was ≤6.1% (intra-day) and ≤6.9% (inter-day). The limit of quantification was set and tested at 0.01 mg/kg. The matrix effect was evaluated, and all matrices had a suppressive effect. The matrix of the cucumber was the most effective, with -20.9% for dinotefuran and an average of -9.8% for all compounds, while the tomato matrix had the slightest effect. Real marketed samples were analyzed using the developed and QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) methods; the results were not significantly different. A supervised field trial was conducted in the open field to study the dissipation patterns of imidacloprid and dinotefuran in tomatoes. The dissipation of both compounds followed first-order kinetics. The half-life (T½) values were 3.4 and 2.5 days, with dissipation rates k of 0.2013 and 0.2781 days, respectively. Following the EU-MRL database, the calculated pre-harvest interval (PHI) values were 7 and 14 days for imidacloprid and dinotefuran, respectively, and 3 days for both compounds following Codex Alimentarius regulations. The risk of imidacloprid and dinotefuran residues was estimated from chronic and acute perspectives. The risk factors of dinotefuran were lower than those of imidacloprid. Nonetheless, the highest expected residues of both compounds were below the tolerance limits.

Characteristic Features of Kolludere Valley (Bitlis-Hizan) Honey

This study was carried out to reveal the characteristic features of honey produced in the Kolludere Valley, which is located within the borders of the Hizan district of Bitlis province. This area is isolated as there are no seasonal migratory beekeepers. In 2022, a flora study was carried out in the area and 133 plant taxa belonging to 19 families from which bees receive nectar or pollen were identified. 23 of these taxa are endemic. Content analysis of honey samples taken from the study area was carried out. Proline value, which is an important parameter of honey quality, was determined as 809.41 mg kg-1, diastase number 28.9, HMF 2.9 mg kg-1, and sucrose 0.2 g/100g. All other parameters (humidity, acidity, pH, fructose+glucose, fructose/glucose, saccharose, maltose, electrical conductivity) were also met standart according to the values of the Food Codex Honey Communiqué and European Union Standards. In addition, pollen analysis of honey samples was made and the data were compared with the flora. In honey samples, pollen is generally minor or rare, and pollen of a dominant taxon was found in only one sample. For this reason, most of the honey produced in the Kolludere Valley was evaluated as flower honey.