bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of neurofilament light chain in the context of neurological disorders
Authors: Taluntienė V. , Motiekaitytė R. , Kizlaitienė R. , Giedraitienė N. , Kaubrys G.
Published: April 2021

Neurofilament light chain (NFL) is a structural neuronal protein highly expressed in large myelinated axons. Axonal damage leads to increased NFL levels in cerebrospinal fluid and blood. Therefore, it could be a potential diagnostic biomarker for various neurological disorders, especially caused by neurodegeneration and inflammation. New sensitive immunoassays for NFL measurement in the blood offer possibilities of monitoring disease progression and assessing treatment response. An increasing amount of data suggests that NFL could also be a prognostic marker for many disorders. The purpose of this article is to review the literature on the role of NFL in the context of dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological diseases.
Dance therapy in neurology
Authors: Šeduikienė M. , Matonis V.
Published: April 2021

A review of recent dance therapy publications shows that most of the research is devoted to the treatment of neurological disorders or the relief of symptoms through dance. Tango, salsa, rumba, marengue, ballet, and other dance forms are employed in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, etc. The increase in treatment cases shows the growing need for the healthcare system to use the possibilities of dance neurotherapy more effectively. The reviewed literature is divided into six sections: 1) increasing research into the therapeutic role of dance and growing popularity of dance therapy, 2) dance as an important neurotherapeutic means of motor, cognitive, emotional, spatio-visual, and social activation, 3) the role of dance in symptom alleviation in Parkinson’s disease, 4) limitations and possibilities of enlargement of neurologic dance therapy, 5) the impact of aesthetic experience of dance on the nervous system, and 6) the growth of the need for dance in healthcare programs. Surprisingly, this important area of investigation and treatment through dance has yet to be named. Taking into account both the scope and specifics of dance therapy activities, it would be appropriate to refer to specialized dance therapy for the treatment of neurological disorders as dance therapy in neurology (DTN). Many of the beneficial effects of dance have great potential to alleviate the symptoms of nervous system disorders and correspondingly expand the possibilities of DTN.
Impact of cognition and psychoemotional status on falls in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Godelienė R. , Sukockienė E. , Danielius V. , Stankunavičiūtė V. , Mickevičienė D.
Published: April 2021

Background. More than 50% of multiple sclerosis patients experience falls associated with accumulating disability, bladder dysfunction, and imbalance. However, impact of psychoemotional factors, including depression, anxiety, and cognition, on the risk of falling has not been studied in Lithuania so far. Data on the influence of psychoemotional factors on the falls are also controversial.Materials and methods. The study was carried out from April 2018 to January 2019 at the Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Neurology Department. Inclusion criteria: remission of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, patients on disease-modifying treatment, EDSS score from 0 to 6.5, absence of mobility impairment due to other conditions, absence of psychiatric comorbidity. A self-reported questionnaire about falls in past 6 months was provided for the participants. Neurological examination, EDSS assessment, and symbol digit modality test (SDMT) were performed; anxiety and depression were rated using HAD scale, fatigue was rated using visual analog scale.Results. A total of 129 participants were enrolled in the study: 40 (31.0%) men and 89 (69.0%) women, mean age 43.6±11.1 years. Falls were experienced by 42 (32.6%) patients. There was no significant difference between fallers and non-fallers by gender (p=0.678). Mean age in fallers was 44.6±11.4 years, in non-fallers – 41.7±11.6 years, p=0.185. Disease duration in fallers was 115.55±74.9 months, and in non- fallers – 100.00±72.2 months (p=0.291). EDSS score was higher in patients who experienced falls than in those who did not (3.66±1.4; 2.31±1.2, p<0.001). SDMT score did not differ significantly between the groups (45.0±12.8; 48.76±12.9; p=0.823); however, fallers had higher fatigue (5.81±2.3; 4.78±2.5; p=0.026), anxiety (9.36±8.8; 5.86±3.7; p=0.003), and depression (7.43±9.1; 3.33±3.4; p<0.001) levels. Falls were predicted by higher EDSS (Exp(B)=1.649; p=0.028) and higher depression scores (Exp(B)=1.221; p=0.045).Conclusions. In our study, falls were experienced by one-third of the patients, they had higher disability. We found no impact of cognition on falls; however, fallers had higher anxiety, depression, and fatigue levels. It is important to take into account not only physical disability as a risk factor for falls in multiple sclerosis but also psychoemotional factors, and to apply individual preventive measures, regardless of the patients’ age or disease duration.
An overview of methods for the treatment and diagnosis of dementia with Lewy bodies. Clinical case analysis
Authors: Markevičiūtė M. Š. , Karnickas M. , Bagdonaitė A.
Published: April 2021

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a progressive neurodegenerative, rarely diagnosed dementia of unknown origin that manifests as fluctuations in cognitive function, complex visual hallucinations, parkinsonism, and REM sleep behavior disorder. A distinctive pathological feature of DLB is the multiple Lewy bodies – eosinophilic hyaline inclusions in the cytoplasm of neurons that are detected in the brain at autopsy. Although DLB is the third most common type of dementia in the elderly, after Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, it is still too rarely diagnosed. Meanwhile, diagnosed cases of DLB are often detected late because diagnosis at an early stage is difficult as DLB can present in symptoms similar to Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, vascular dementia, delirium, and other disorders. In this article, by presenting a clinical case of a patient with DLB and discussing the literature and the most recent diagnostic criteria, we seek to remind that patients with DLB experience a wide range of symptoms, including delusions, anxiety, aggression, and depression. We also discuss the latest DLB diagnostic criteria published in 2017, which drew more focus on REM sleep behavior disorder than previously. The main purpose of the article is to remind that the management of DLB is a multidisciplinary task for psychiatrists and neurologists. The treatment of DLB is also complex and challenging due to the high risk of adverse drug reactions. A drug prescribed to control one symptom of the disease may worsen other symptoms. Patients may be exceptionally sensitive to antipsychotics for the control of delirium and hallucinations, therefore pharmacological treatment should be individualized.
Value of EEG in the differentiation of glial tumor and encephalitis: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Jokubaitis M. , Mameniškienė R. , Barkauskienė A. , Valaikienė J.
Published: April 2021

We report a case of a 24-year-old acute encephalitis patient presenting with epileptic seizures. Glial tumor was suspected due to initial changes seen on magnetic resonance imaging. The findings of electroencephalography (EEG) were indicative of a functional impairment, therefore additional tests were performed that revealed changes characteristic for inflammation. In this case of histologically unconfirmed diagnosis of brain tumor, EEG became the most significant method for suspecting atypical encephalitis. The article also reviews similar cases described in the literature and EEG changes characteristic of infectious and autoimmune encephalitis.
Knowledge and attitude of medical students towards breastfeeding practices
Authors: Waseem Jamalvi  , Sidra Hassan  , Sadia Saeed  , Mahwish Raza
Published: April 2021

Background: Breastfeeding is the supreme economical and certainly accessible absolute nutrition for every newborn baby. The child health indicators are alarming in our country and enable us to understand the importance of investing in mother's and children's nutrition.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 250 undergraduate MBBS students at Hamdard University from April 2019 till June 2019, and the samples were collected by convenient sampling technique. The sample size was calculated online by open epi website. All the undergraduate MBBS students from Hamdard University were included, and other students from Hamdard University was excluded. Oral informed consent was obtained, and the research ethics committee approved the study protocol. SPSS Version 19 was used to analyze the data.

Results: Among all 250 students, there were 106(42%) males, and year wise participation were presented. Upon asking about bottle feeding's adverse event, 160(64%) opted 'yes' answer. The majority 128(51%) oppose the statement that 'Pre-lacteal feed is the food except mother's milk can be provided to a newborn before initiating breastfeeding. It was well-known among most of the participants, 149(60%), that breastfeeding duration is two years. It was found that 76 (30%) thought that it is easy to digest, 61(24%) thought that it is an easily available product and prevent diarrhea and acute respiratory infections among babies, 27(11%) rated it cheap, 25(10%) opted sterile among advantages of breastfeeding.

Conclusion: Medical students can benefit from targeted programs to increase breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes and confidence in guiding breastfeeding mothers.
Effectiveness of Bone Marrow Biopsy for the Diagnosis of Pyrexia of Unknown Cause
Authors: Sajjad Mehwish , Kousar Shaheen , Arshad Fatima , Fatima Ambreen , Tauheed Muhammad Sohaib , Minhas Saima , Mehmood Mehreen , Qadri Hira , Mansoori Huma
Published: April 2021

Background: Diagnosis of fever of unidentified cause remains challenging despite the availability of modern diagnostic techniques. Pyrexia of Unknown Origin (PUO) may result from various etiologies, among which infectious diseases are largely responsible. Many diagnostic approaches are currently applied. A detailed history with a complete general physical examination followed by baseline investigations with other specific tests like imaging, microbiological tests, and biopsies is employed to diagnose PUO. This study was designed for the evaluation and effectiveness of bone marrow biopsy in the identification of PUO and highlighted the existing spectrum of diseases involved in PUO.

Methodology: This Cross-sectional study was conducted at Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi from 2015 to 2018 evaluated the records of patients who had bone marrow aspiration and biopsy Patients included in this study had a history of fever due to an Unfamiliar cause and met the Peters Dorf and Beeson criteria for PUO, i.e. fever for more than 3 weeks before diagnosis. Informed consent was taken from all patients.

Results:  We analyzed the medical histories of 67 patients (48 males and 19 females) who were recommended bone marrow biopsy and aspiration for the assessment of PUO. The mean age was 38 years. The most common clinical symptoms found in patients of PUO were fever, hepato-splenomegaly followed by abdominal pain and weight loss. Anemia was the most common hematological parameter found in this study. The most frequent diagnosis in biopsies of PUO patients was Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in about 25% of patients.

Conclusion: Certain laboratory and clinical parameters can detect major hematological diseases like malignancies when bone marrow biopsy is used for the workup of pyrexia of unknown origin. Bone marrow biopsy should be regarded as a constitutive part of the workup and diagnosis of pyrexia of unknown origin in conjunction with clinical findings.
Comparing mean healing time of low fistula in Ano treated by Fistulotomy v/s Fistulectomy
Authors: Parveez Usra , Faridi Salman
Published: April 2021

Background: Fistula in ano is a chronic abnormality usually lined by some degree of granulated tissue that runs outward from the anorectal lumen, from internal to an external opening on perineum skin or buttock. The current study aimed to compare the mean healing time of low fistula in ano treated by fistulotomy v/s fistulectomy.

Methodology: A randomized controlled trial was conducted at Liaquat National Hospital in Karachi-Pakistan, for six months after the approval of the synopsis by the CPSP. A total of 60 patients selected who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in this study, with 30 patients in each group. Patients were divided into two groups randomly, i.e. Group-A: Fistula in Ano treated by Fistulotomy and Group-B Fistula in Ano treated by Fistulectomy. All the data was collected from the Department of General Surgery's inpatient services at Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi. The Patients were approached in clinics weekly until complete epithelization of the wound.

Results: The overall mean age of patients was 41.83 ± 4.07 years. In Group A (Fistulotomy), the mean age was observed to be 39.83 ± 6.8, and in Group B (Fistulectomy), the mean age was 44.1±5.9. The mean duration of symptoms was observed to be 3.37 ± 0.81 weeks. Comparatively, the duration of symptoms was found to be statistically insignificant (p-value: 0.511). Whereas the mean healing time was found to be highly significant between the two groups. (P-value: 0.000).

Conclusion: It is concluded from the study results that there is a highly significant difference in terms of wound healing between fistulotomy and fistulectomy in fistula in ano treatment. Fistulotomy offers an earlier wound healing as compared to fistulectomy.
Interventions to support early childhood development in times of COVID-19: A systematic review protocol.
Authors: Bhamani Shelina , Rahim Komal , Tabani Alaina , Lassi Zohra
Published: April 2021

Background: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), which came as an emerging disease, was announced as a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. In an attempt to limit this virus's spread, strict measures were taken, amongst which closure of schools and child care facilities were also present. This impacted the holistic well-being of the children. This systematic review aimed to identify early childhood development (ECD) interventions conducted and reported during the COVID-19 pandemic in low and middle-income countries and identify the barriers and facilitators to taking up ECD activities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methodology: A systematic literature explores all published and pre-print studies done during this pandemic starting from 31 Dec 2019 onwards using PRISMA guidelines. Databases such as MEDLINE, Embase, ERIC, CINAHL, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Google Scholar, and the WHO COVID-19 database would be searched. All types of studies that are reporting ECD interventions and outcomes will be considered. 

Discussion: The review will be one of the initiatives to support and provide directions for the programmatic agencies and academia to support post-Covid-19 interventions for the young children living in lower middle-income countries. By gathering the data pertinent to the interventions that were done during the times of lockdown for early childhood will also provide evidence to the programs of what has worked and how well it has worked for the nurturing care of children and their families.

Systematic review registration number: PROSPERO CRD42020202541
Error correction by Reed–Solomon codes using its automorphisms
Authors: Lipnitsky V. A. , Semyonov S. I.
Published: April 2021

The article explores the syndrome invariants of АГ-group of automorphisms of Reed–Solomon codes (RS-codes) that are a joint group of affine and cyclic permutations. The found real invariants are a set of norms of N Г-orbits that make up one or another АГ-orbit. The norms of Г-orbits are vectors with 2 1 Cδ− coordinates from the Galois field, that are determined by all kinds of pairs of components of the error syndromes. In this form, the invariants of the АГ-orbits were cumbersome and difficult to use. Therefore, their replacement by conditional partial invariants is proposed. These quasi-invariants are called norm-projections. Norm-projection uniquely identifies its АГ-orbit and therefore serves as an adequate way for formulating the error correction method by RS-codes based on АГ-orbits. The power of the АГ-orbits is estimated by the value of N2, equal to the square of the length of the RS-code. The search for error vectors in transmitted messages by a new method is reduced to parsing the АГ‑orbits, but actually their norm-projections, with the subsequent search for these errors within a particular АГ-orbit. Therefore, the proposed method works almost N2 times faster than traditional syndrome methods, operating on the basic of the “syndrome – error” principle, that boils down to parsing the entire set of error vectors until a specific vector is found.
Matrices, based on nanostructured porous anodic alumina, for functional applications
Authors: Fedosyuk V. M.
Published: April 2021

Two-step electrochemical anodization was used for obtaining matrices based on porous anodic alumina (MPAA). Three series of experimental samples were made: 1 – PAAM with thickness 1.3–2.5 μm and 70 nm diameter, 2 – 70.0 μm thickness and 50–75 nm diameter and 3 – 13.5–60.0 μm thickness and 100–200 nm diameter. The pore filling of MPAA was realized using electrochemical deposition. As a result Ni nanopillars, Ni and multilayered Cu/CoNi nanowires were formed. The scanning electron microscopy, vibrating magnetometry, voltammetry techniques and four-probe method were used for experimental samples investigations. The magnetic characteristics of Ni nanowires showed that nanowires in MPAA have ferromagnetic properties, since the coercitivity riches up to 750 kOe and squareness ratio up to 0.65. The study of the electrochemical behavior of the Ti/Al2O3/Ni nanocomposite material in the potential range from –450 to +450 mV in 0.9 % NaCl aqueous solution demonstrated its high corrosion resistance properties. The correlation of the GMR of multilayered Cu/CoNi nanowires to the topological parameters of MPAA, the number of layers, the MPAA and partial layers thickness, and chemical purity has been determined. Thus, it has been demonstrated the prospects of use of matrices based on porous anodic alumina as a base material for the template synthesis of functional ferromagnetic nanomaterials for various practical applications.
The Legal Istinbâth of Ibnu Qayyim Al-Jauziyah in the Terms of Medication and Health
Authors: Khatib Suansar
Published: April 2021

The problem concern in this research is how the method of legal istinbâth of Ibn Qayyim al-Jauziyah about medication and health and its relevance with modern theory.This is normative legal research with library research methods, in the form of character studies. The source of the primary material is al-Thibbal Nabawi, supported by secondary materials, al-Dâ’u wa al-Dâwa’, and other relevant materials.Data analysis employed content analysis techniques, the material contained in the text was elaborated by comprehending the contents, then interpreted to obtain the legal istinbâth method regarding the method of medication and health. The results of this study showed that the method of legal istinbâth of Ibnu Qayyim al-Jauziyah in terms of medications, is guided by dilâlah ‘ibârah or ibârat nash, namely the Quran, Yûnus [10]: 57, Al-Isra’ [17]: 82, and clarified by the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad PBUH. While the method of legal istinbâth of Ibn Qayyim al-Jauziyah in health issues was refering to dillah ‘ibârah or ibârat nash, Al-Maidah [5]: 6, Al-’Araf [7]: 31, and made clear by the hadith. In terms of modern medication and health, the theory of therapy related to the process of medical action, is by maintaining body health through preventive action and expelling dangerous substances within the body.Fokus permasalahan dalam penelitian ini adalah bagaimana metode istinbâth hukum Ibnu Qayyim al-Jauziyah tentang pengobatan dan kesehatan?, dan bagaimana relevansi metode istinbâth hukumnya dengan teori pengobatan dan kesehatan modern?. Jenis penelitian ini merupakan penelitian hukum normatif dengan metode penelitian kepustakaan, dalam bentuk studi tokoh. Sumber bahan primernya yakni al-Thibbal-Nabawi,didukung oleh bahan sekunder yakni al-Dâ’u wa al-Dâwa’, dan bahan lainnya yang relevan. Analisis data menggunakan teknik analisis isi, materi yang terdapat dalam kandungan naskah dielaborasi dengan memahami makna yang terkandung dalam teks,lalu dilakukan interpretasi guna mendapatkan metode istinbâth hukumnya tentang metode pengobatan dan kesehatan. Hasil penelitian ini menemukan pertama,metode istinbâth hukum Ibnu Qayyim al-Jauziyah dalam masalah pengobatan berpedoman kepada dilâlah ‘ibârah atau ibârat nash yaitu Alquran surat Yûnus [10]: 57, Al-Isra’ [17]: 82, dan diperjelas oleh hadis Nabi. Sedangkan metode istinbâth hukum Ibnu Qayyim al-Jauziyah dalam masalah kesehatan merujuk kepada dilâlah ‘ibârah atau ibârat nash surat al-Maidah [5]: 6, Al-‘Araf [7]: 31, dan diperjelas oleh hadis Nabi. Relevansinya dengan pengobatan dan kesehatan modern, salah satunya teori tentang terapi yang terkait proses tindakan medis, yaitu dengan menjaga kesehatan tubuh melalui tindakan preventif dan melakukan proses pengusiran zat di tubuh yang menerima campuran zat berbahaya.
Combination of Microwave, Ultrasonic, Enzyme Assisted Method for Curcumin Species Extraction from Turmeric (Curcuma Longa L.) and Evaluation of their Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Wang Chengke , Yang Hanli , Li Jiangyu
Published: April 2021

The combination of microwave irradiation, ultrasonication treatment, and enzyme‐assisted extraction approach was applied to study the extraction efficiency and antioxidative activity of curcumin from turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) using Response Surface Optimization (RSM). The effects of the power and treatment time of microwave irradiation and ultrasonication treatment, the types of enzymes, the amounts, and interaction time of pectinase on the extraction efficiency were studied. RSM was used to select the optimum extraction conditions by implementing Box–Behnken design. The extraction ratio and antioxidant activity of extracted species are 2.89% and 83.95% under the optimal conditions, respectively, which are close to the predicted values, and are much higher than the single extraction approach. Our results show that a versatile approach for biological compounds extraction from agricultural and natural products was successfully developed, and the bioactivity of extracted species could be kept well by using our proposed combination extraction methods.
CLASSICAL PHILOSOPHICAL FOUNDATIONS OF FUNDAMENTAL SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH’ INSTITUTIONALIZATION IN COGNITIVE SOCIETY
Authors: Levchenko Oleksandr , Ameen Saif Ali Al-Ghazali
Published: April 2021

The subject of publication is the theoretical generalization of the philosophical foundations of fundamental scientific research (FSR). The stages of institutionalization of attitude to the FSR are considered, from the stage of critical discussion of the conditions for obtaining true knowledge of the Hellenistic period to the developed system of teaching about the transcendental logic of Kant and Hegel’s logical teaching about being, essence and concept in the context of fundamental scientific research. The methodology is based on generalization of the most radical points of view and approaches of representatives of different philosophical schools and research programs to clarify the essence and ways of FSR. The causes and gnoseological origins of the FSR scientific method change to the modern form of the method of verification toleration of scientific theories of post-positivism and metapositivism (Popper, Lakatos, Kuhn, Feyerabend) are described. As a result of the study, it was concluded that the period of radical rethinking of the classical paradigm of fundamental theoretical research, which is set out in the teachings of researchers of the ancient period, the New Time, classical German, Marxist philosophy, has started. Instead of the deterministic method of scientific thinking, the verification logic of substantiation of the process of generating new knowledge (line Descartes&Pascal), the method of verification toleration/refutation of Popper is adopted by scientists. At the same time, the justification for the truth of the FSR is based on the development of Descartes’ teachings about the method. The applied result of the practical application of the Popper’s concept in the field of FSR implementation is a deliberately probabilized style of scientific cognition, the principle of verifying the intermediate interpretation of the truth, updating practical approaches to demarcation procedures, justifying the partial and permissible value of scientific theories as “points of invariability” in the continuum of continuous inaccuracy and uncertainty (Hume/Berkeley vs. Bacon/Newton line).
METHODS OF RISK MANAGEMENT OF INVESTMENT PROJECTS’ EXPERTISE OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE ENTERPRISES
Authors: Kovalskyi Andrii
Published: April 2021

The issue of risk assessment of investment projects at the state level is not given much attention and there is no proposed method for assessing such risks. Considering the transition of public utilities under the conditions of decentralisation to the need for self-sufficiency, the latter must use a well-established methodology for assessing risks and uncertainties, which is carried out by private sector entities expert assessments, or methods of mathematical statistics when evaluating their investment projects. A partial answer to the lack of a methodology for assessing the risk levels of investment projects should be the concept of modelling decision-making under uncertainty. The concept of modelling decision-making is based on two essential properties that constitute the very essence of the modelling process. Firstly, the model must be similar to the object under study; secondly, it must be more direct than the object under study to be considered. The main purpose of the model is the ability to conduct experiments with the model, analysis and study, which are impossible with the object under study. The paper develops the concept of modelling decision-making in conditions of uncertainty for investment projects’ expertise of municipal infrastructure enterprises, the essence of which is to develop different scenarios for the business entity using the technique of modelling decision-making, taking into account different parameters and characteristics under uncertainty. Uncertainty decision-that decision-making is based on the fact that the probabilities of different scenarios for the entity making the risk decision are unknown.
DYNAMICS OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATIONS IN THE NATIONAL ECONOMY OF UKRAINE
Authors: Pustovarov Anatolii
Published: April 2021

The purpose of the paper is to analyse the quantitative changes dynamics in the development and application of information and communication technologies in production and sale of information, traditional goods and services, provision of public services, as well as in everyday life of citizens. Methodology. The main method of research is the trend analysis of statistical data provided on the official website of the State Statistics Service of Ukraine. Results of the survey showed dynamics of digital transformations in the information sector of national economy of Ukraine, the level of use of information and communication technologies by enterprises outside the information sector, as well as the population and government agencies (2016-2019). Practical implications. Positive and negative changes in the information sector because of digital transformations in national economy of Ukraine are found. There are positive changes: annual growth of the information sector; growth of production volumes with the use of medium-high technologies; increase in sales of services with computer equipment; level of use of fixed broadband Internet access by enterprises higher than the average; positive dynamics of Internet use by the population; availability of Internet access in 94% of surveyed government agencies. There are negative changes: reduction of indicators of the use of information and communication technologies at the enterprises outside information sector; insufficient provision of enterprises with specialists in information and communication technologies; a small number of companies with official website and cloud technology; low indicators of e-business development according to the B2B interaction model; lack of generally accepted methodology and list of evaluation indicators; unsatisfactory level of collection, grouping and provision of statistical data about dynamics of digital transformations of the national economy by the State Statistics Service of Ukraine; unsatisfactory level of use of e-democracy instruments. Value/originality. The findings can be used to improve the mechanisms and measures of state regulation of digitalization of the national economy.
ECONOMICS AND TAXATION OF WEALTH
Authors: Sverdan Mykhailo
Published: April 2021

The purpose of the paper is to study current issues of wealth, which is due to current sustainable trends in wealth growth and increasing the number of wealthy individuals. The aim is to determine the essence, prerequisites for the emergence and development of wealth, as well as to reflect the historical aspects of the evolution of wealth and its current state. The topic of the article is caused by the need to reveal the modern social stratification of population by the level of wealth, the formation of a wealthy class of society and its growth, the processes of creating and increasing wealth. At the same time, the purpose of the article is to study wealth as an object of taxation. In this regard, an economical essence of the wealth tax and its introduction preconditions are considered, the specificity of functioning of wealth tax in a market economy, the most important features of wealth tax functioning are determined. Methodology. Proper analysis of the social structure of society in terms of material wealth allows to evaluate the efficiency of the economy and the quality of public policy in the system of creating and distributing public revenues, public goods and wealth. Fatal mistakes in choosing the state priorities of socio-economic policies and making the best decisions in the financial sphere appear without the results of these calculations. The survey is based on a comparison of data of wealth tax in different countries. Results. The question and the modern specifics of wealth are investigated. The value of wealth for society and the state is determined. The wealth tax is an effective fiscal tool of the state in the distribution of public revenues. The wealth tax exists in many countries in various forms. Practical implications. The possibilities of improving well-being and increasing wealth are explored. Adequate assessment of the level of well-being and wealth would enable the state to carry out a balanced and effective socio-economic and financial policy to stabilize society and adopt a stable public order. The financial essence of the wealth tax and its introduction preconditions are investigated. The specificity of functioning of wealth tax in a social market economy is considered. Value/originality. It has been found that wealth is a comprehensive, multi-faceted category, which can be characterized as a specific feature of the socio-economic structure of society, which determines its condition, results, dynamics and development tendencies. Wealth characterizes the ability to achieve a positive result (effect) in market conditions of managing and using the existing social and economic potential in the community, as evidenced by its level of civilization development. The peculiarities of the functioning of the wealth tax in different countries of the world are considered. The using of the wealth tax as a fiscal instrument in the state tax system is suggested.
CONCEPTUAL PRINCIPLES OF PRICING IN THE AERATED CONCRETE MARKET IN UKRAINE IN THE CONTEXT OF ECONOMIC CYCLICALITY
Authors: Skrypnyk Olha
Published: April 2021

The purpose of the paper is to identify patterns of influence of macroeconomic and sectoral factors on the dynamics of prices of aerated concrete products during 2015-2020. The method of factor analysis was used to identify the degree of influence of a number of macroeconomic indicators and raw material prices on the pricing of aerated concrete products. Using the graphical method, the patterns of change in the growth rate of aerated concrete prices at different phases of the economic cycle during this period were identified. Methodology. The study is based on the identification of correlation regression relationships between the price of aerated concrete products and raw materials for their production and some macroeconomic factors, as well as on the analysis of changes in the degree of influence of relevant factors on aerated concrete prices at different phases of the economic cycle. Re-search results. The article summarizes the theoretical approaches to the classification of pricing factors, defines the time limits of the phases of economic cycles in the economy of Ukraine during 2014-2020, identifies the main factors of price formation in the aerated concrete market of Ukraine and analyses the degree of their impact on prices of aerated concrete products in 2015-2020. Practical implications consist of identifying a number of correlations, as well as trends in aerated concrete prices at different phases of the economic cycle, which can be used to improve pricing in the construction industry. Value/originality Methodological approaches used for factor analysis of pricing of aerated concrete products can be used for timely price adjustment within the chosen pricing strategy, based on forecasts of macroeconomic development of the economy.
PROVIDING A MECHANISM FOR IMPLEMENTING THE STRATEGY FOR IMPROVING THE COMPETITIVENESS OF UKRAINE’S MARITIME TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE
Authors: Stepanenko Vladyslav
Published: April 2021

The purpose of the article is to develop a mechanism for implementing a strategy for increasing the competitiveness of the Ukrainian maritime transport infrastructure. Methodology. The mechanism for implementing the strategy for increasing the competitiveness of Ukraine’s maritime transport infrastructure should have a systemic and comprehensive nature, all its elements should be interconnected and aimed at achieving a common goal that can guarantee the implementation of the strategic goals and priorities of the proposed concept. Results. The article is devoted to the formation of a mechanism for the implementation of the strategy of increasing the competitiveness of the Ukrainian maritime transport infrastructure, taking into account the European integration orientation. The proposed mechanism consists of key planes and their elements: methodological: (political, administrative, legal, organizational, economic, social methods; principles of consistency and complexity, flexibility, strategic importance, synergy, congruence, integration, innovation, adaptability, consistency, hierarchy; functions: goal setting – planning – organization – motivation – control – coordination); organizational and resource (institutional, organizational, financial, technological, information, socio-economic support); operating room, including a sequence of five stages (I – III stages. Development and adoption of the MTI development program of Ukraine and measures to implement the strategy at all levels of government (mega, macro, meso, micro. IV stage. Implementation of developed measures. V stage. Evaluation of the implementation of the strategy to increase the competitiveness of MTI of Ukraine). Practical implications. The directions of increasing the competitiveness of the Ukrainian maritime transport infrastructure are determined, namely: financial, personnel, regulatory, organizational, information technology and environmental. An algorithm for the implementation of the strategy to increase the competitiveness of the Ukrainian maritime transport infrastructure is presented. Value/originality. It is noted that the proposed mechanism for implementing the strategy for increasing the competitiveness of Ukraine’s maritime transport infrastructure in the context of European integration will ensure the constant, efficient, competitive, stable development of Ukraine’s maritime transport infrastructure.
SOCIO-CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT AND CULTURAL POLICY OF UKRAINE: EXPERIENCE OF FORMATION AND IMPLEMENTATION
Authors: Zlenko Nataliia
Published: April 2021

The paper is devoted to the analysis of the state cultural policy in the context of development of socio-cultural space. Scientific research is based on understanding of the basic values, the place and role of culture in the modern world, its true significance for the state, which claims the title of civilized, and therefore understanding of culture as a priority of the state policy. Therefore, the aim of the paper is the generalization of the Ukrainian experience of state cultural policy and identification of the significant achievements in this area. Methodology. The methodology of science of interdisciplinary level is applied in the research. The integration of interdisciplinary knowledge and the unification of disparate characteristics into the system allowed to obtain the new scientific knowledge in part of cultural policy characteristics on different sides and of view of the Ukrainian cultural policy in its entirety. The paper analyzes the main milestones of the Ukrainian cultural policy formation from independence to the present. The main achievements and imperfection of the state cultural policy in the political, cultural, institutional and financial aspects are summarized. Results. It is concluded that despite the failure of systemic cultural reforms in the past, a number of important changes have taken place in the cultural policy of Ukraine. The state cultural policy acquires signs of integrity and system. An organic entry into the context of the European system of values with the preservation and development of the own cultural heritage takes place. Value / originality. Analysis and systematization of the reformist projects and institutional decisions of the cultural policy of Ukraine in 1990-2020 can be used as the theoretical addition to research of the field of state cultural policy of Ukraine. Practical implications. From our point of view, the practical implications of the cultural policy research will help to get closer to understanding the reasons of the many reforms failures, to find the new effective practical solutions and to develop optimal approaches for the future state cultural policy of Ukraine.
Immunological and molecular detection of rotavirus genotype in children with gastroenteritis in Diyala-Iraq
Authors: Ammar Talib Nasser  , Abdulrazak Shafiq Hasan  , Amer Khazaal Saleh  , Mohammad Kassem Saleh
Published: April 2021

Aim: To explore the prevalence along with the molecular detection and genotyping of group A rotavirus (RVA) among children up to 5 years old complaining of gastroenteritis in Diyala province-Iraq. Methods: This is a cross sectional study conducted in Diyala province-Iraq during the period of 2019-2020. One hundred children up to 5 years old with gastroenteritis were enrolled. 54% were males and 46% were females. They were attending hospitals or primary healthcare centers. All were vaccinated with rotavirus vaccine. Blood and fecal samples were collected from each subject. Serum anti-rotavirus IgM and IgG plus fecal rotavirus Ag were tested for using ELISA techniques. Stool samples positive for rotavirus Ag were submitted for conventional PCR and for G and P genotyping thereafter. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 25 and P values ≤ 0.05 were considered significant. Results: The anti-rotavirus IgM and IgG positivity rates among children were 71% (P = 0.001) and 81% (P = 0.0001), respectively. Additionally, the rotavirus stool antigen was positive in 75% of the children (P = 0.001). Among 61 stool samples submitted for conventional PCR technique, the rotavirus RNA was detected in 25 (40.9%). The sequencing and genotyping investigation of 10 PCR positive products revealed that all investigated viral samples belonged to G1P[8] rotavirus A genotype. Conclusion: The current strains analyzed belonged to the G1P[8] rotavirus A genotypes, indicating high coverage of current rotavirus vaccines and affirming the importance of continuous characterization of circulating rotavirus strains and monitoring vaccine efficacy.
Hydrocarbon solubilisation by oil and cellulose-degrading Chitinophaga terrae isolated from the rumen.
Authors: Ogochukwu Ann Udume  , Herbert Okechukwu Stanley  , Gideon O Abu
Published: April 2021

This study investigated the capacity of cellulose and hydrocarbon degrading bacterium isolated from the rumen of a cow to solubilise hydrocarbon. The bacterium was isolated from the rumen fluid of cow and its capacity to degrade cellulose was screened on carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC) agar plate and the ability to degrade crude oil was carried out using Bonny Light crude. Solubilisation of hydrocarbon was determined by carrying out emulsification index (E24) using kerosene. Other bio-surfactant characteristics such as blood haemolysis, tilted slide capacity and oil displacement were tested also. The bacterium was identified based on phenotypic, biochemical and molecular characteristics. The isolate achieved 48.17% degradation of total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) within 14 days with emulsification index of 54.5%. The isolate also produced clear zone on agar plate containing CMC as the sole carbon source. Phylogenetic tree analyses classified the bacterial isolate as Chitinophaga terrae. The sequences have been deposited to GenBank under the accession number KJ076216.1. This study has demonstrated that the novel strain of Chitinophaga terrae used in this study not only has the capacity for multiple substrate utilization, but also has the capacity to produce bio-surfactant. Considering that the isolate was obtain from the rumen of cow it shows that rumen content may harbour bacteria with diverse economical and ecologically-friendly product, which may be utilized for bioremediation of crude oil contaminated systems.
Perbedaan Kualitas Tidur Pada Lansia Sebelum Dan Sesudah Diberikan Rendaman Kaki Dengan Air Hangat
Authors: Roufuddin Roufuddin , Syaifuddin Mohammad
Published: April 2021

Gangguan tidur dapat mengakibatkan masalah serius bahkan menurunkan kualitas hidup, hal ini sering terjadi pada lansia. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui perbedaan kualitas tidur pada lansia sebelum dan sesudah pemberian rendam kaki dengan air hangat di Desa Sukolilo Barat Bangkalan.

Jenis penelitian ini adalah pra-experiment design, dengan pendekatan one-group pretest-posttest design. Populasi sebanyak 41 lansia di Desa Sukolilo Barat, dan jumlah sampel sebanyak 30 lansia yang ditentukan dengan teknik purposive sampling. Variabel independen penelitian adalah rendam kaki dengan air hangat, variabel dependennya kualitas tidur pada lansia. Alat ukur dengan kuesioner PSQI. Uji statistik menggunakan Wilcoxon Rank Test.

Kualitas tidur sebelum dilakukan rendam kaki dengan air hangat dengan kualitas tidur kurang sebanyak 15 lansia (50%), 12 lansia cukup (40%), dan baik sebanyak 3 lansia. Kualitas tidur sesudah dilakukan rendam kaki dengan air hangat dengan kualitas tidur baik sebanyak 13 lansia (43,3%), 15 lansia cukup (50%), dan 2 lansia kurang. Dengan menggunakan uji Wilcoxon didapatkan nilai p value 0,000 (p<  0,05). Sehingga dapat disimpulkan ada perbedaan kualitas tidur pada lansia sebelum dan sesudah diberikan rendam kaki dengan air hangat.

Kualitas tidur bisa ditingkatkan bila lansia mengatahui faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi kualitas tidur seperti faktor usia, lingkungan, makanan dan cara meningkatkan kualitas tidur dengan baik dan benar.
KARAKTERISTIK JIWA KEHIDUPAN MASYARAKAT (VOLKSGEIST) INDONESIA TERHADAP OMNIBUS LAW
Authors: Nugroho Fiska Maulidian
Published: April 2021

Omnibus Law merupakan teknik/metode penyederhanaan hukum (simplikasi hukum) yang dituangkan pada terciptanya Undang-Undang Cipta Kerja. Sebuah momentum yang akan dikaji menggunakan aliran filsafat sejarah hukum yang dipelopori oleh beberapa ahli hukum terdahulu, ikon pada saat itu adalah F.K. von Savigny. Ia menolak Mazhab Hukum Alam dan Positivisme Hukum untuk Unifikasi/Kodifikasi Hukum Jerman pada waktu itu, ia lebih memilih Kodifikasi yang dibentuk menggunakan karakter jiwa bangsa (Volksgeist). Oleh karena itu, pendekatan yang digunakan untuk menganalisis UU Cipta Kerja yang menggunakan teknik Omnibus Law dirasakan bertentangan dengan karakteristik pembentukan hukum berdasarkan Aliran/Mazhab Sejarah Hukum (Historical Jurisprudence) ini. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan Metode Penelitian Hukum Normatif dan Yuridis Sosiologis.
Effects of resveratrol and 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosurea combination on YKG1 glioblastoma cells
Authors: PEKTAŞ Gökhan , ASLAN Esra , GÜZEL Hilal , DEMİRCİLER YAVAŞ Betül , ÇELİK Sefa
Published: April 2021

Glioblastoma is a primary malignant brain tumor that can be treated with 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosurea (BiCNU/carmustine). Resveratrol is a natural phenol that can interfere with apoptosis. This study aims to investigate how the combination of BiCNU and resveratrol affects glioblastoma cells in vitro. Accordingly, YKG1 glioblastoma cells were treated with different amounts of resveratrol (50 and 100 µM) and BiCNU (10 and 20 µM) either alone or in combination. Cell viability tests and immunochemical studies were conducted on these cells. According to results, increasing the amount of resveratrol and BiCNU decreased cell viability. Additionally, when these maximal doses of resveratrol and BiCNU (100 µM resveratrol plus 20 µM BiCNU) were applied, viability decreased to the highest cytotoxicity levels. Immunohistochemical analysis also revealed the significantly upregulated H scores of beclin-1 and caspase-3 in treated groups with the highest value in maximally combined concentration. These results indicated the cumulative effects of concurrent administration of BiCNU and resveratrol on the cytotoxicity of malignant human YKG1 glioblastoma cells in vitro.
Can the Nile Generate Output, Income and Employment in Egypt? A Mixed Multiplier Analysis
Authors:   Rehab Osman, Emanuele Ferrari, Alfredo Mainar Causape, Sofia Jiménez Calvo
Published: April 2021

Nile water availability is one of the major constraints for agricultural development in Egypt. This study conducts a mixed multiplier analysis, under water and land constraints, to identify the seasonal agricultural activities with high output and income multipliers. It uses a 2008/09 SAM for Egypt with detailed representation for Nile-related production factors employed by agricultural activities across irrigation seasons. The results demonstrate the significance of addressing Nile water constraints not only for agriculture, but also for the overall economy. Policies that enhance water productivity, particularly in winter season, generate outstanding increases in output, income, and employment through sizable multiplier effects.
An Operational Model for Online Language Teaching: The Digital Didactic Unit
Authors: La Grassa Matteo
Published: April 2021

Referring to teaching Italian language online, the general tendency has been to use the same patterns for both face-to-face and e-learning courses. Moreover, teaching Italian online has been considered mainly as scaffolding for teaching Italian in classroom (e.g. in several blended courses). Although many e-learning activities can also be successfully exploited in face-to-face lessons, currently a process of ‘separation’ between the two different teaching/learning contexts is ongoing: these two educational channels have today different status and are bounded by a ‘non-competitive’ correlation. In this framework the need arises to elaborate new operational models suitable for e-learning. This article will present the main characteristics of a model, specifically elaborated to be used in technological learning environment, that we called Digital Didactic Unit.