bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
МЕХАНІЗМ ФІНАНСОВОГО КОНТРОЛЮ ЗА РОЗПОДІЛОМ БЮДЖЕТНИХ КОШТІВ ЗАЛЕЖНО ВІД РЕЗУЛЬТАТІВ НАУКОВОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ ЗАКЛАДУ ВИЩОЇ ОСВІТИ
Authors: S. Hreben  , I. Mihus  , L. Parashchenko  , S. Laptіev  , V. Alkema
Published: March 2020

Запропоновано механізм фінансового контролю за розподілом бюджетних коштів залежно від результатів наукової діяльності закладу вищої освіти (ЗВО) і його структуру, яка включає: мету і завдання механізму; об’єкти і суб’єкти механізму; основні принцип, на яких ґрунтується механізм; види забезпечення реалізації механізму; важелі впливу та інструменти реалізації механізму; методичні підходи до оцінювання результатів наукової діяльності; заходи фінансового контролю за розподілом бюджетних коштів. Введено поняття «механізм фінансового контролю за розподілом бюджетних коштів залежно від результатів наукової діяльності закладу вищої освіти», під яким пропонуємо розуміти систему заходів і методів впливу державного фінансового контролю на діяльність закладів вищої освіти з метою підвищення ефективності витрачання бюджетних коштів шляхом ухвалення рішення про фінансування ЗВО на основі результатів проведених наукових досліджень. Зазначено, що основними напрямами забезпечення функціонування механізму фінансового контролю за розподілом бюджетних коштів залежно від результатів наукової діяльності закладу вищої освіти є: правовий, нормативний та інформаційний. Систематизовано основні важелі впливу на функціонування запропонованого механізму: ліцензування спеціальності, за якою буде проводитись підготовка здобувачів вищої освіти; акредитація освітніх програм за спеціальностями; державна атестація ЗВО залежно від результатів наукової діяльності; розподіл бюджетних коштів залежно від результатів державної атестації ЗВО. До інструментів реалізації механізму фінансового контролю за розподілом бюджетних коштів залежно від результатів наукової діяльності ЗВО віднесено: фінансовий контроль; державний фінансовий аудит; ІТ-аудит. Запропоновано механізм проведення ІТ-аудиту результатів наукової діяльності ЗВО шляхом пошуку інформації про результати наукової діяльності працівників та її порівняння з інформацією ЗВО, поданою у заявці на проходження державної атестації в частині провадження ним наукової (науково-технічної) діяльності.
СОЦІАЛЬНО-ЕКОНОМІЧНІ ФАКТОРИ СТВОРЕННЯ ОБ’ЄДНАНИХ ТЕРИТОРІАЛЬНИХ ГРОМАД В УКРАЇНІ
Authors: Yu. Petrushenko  , O. Kubatko  , O. Ponomarenko
Published: March 2020

Реформа децентралізації та процес формування спроможних територіальних громад є пріоритетним завданням уряду України. Реформа має на меті сформувати дієву систему місцевого самоврядування задля створення якісного середовища для життя людей, підвищення якості надання муніципальних послуг та забезпечення сталого розвитку регіонів. Реформа базується на європейських принципах організації місцевого самоврядування, що зумовило добровільний характер об’єднання територіальних громад. Було проведено значну підготовчу роботу з впровадження реформи, зокрема затверджено методику формування спроможних громад, що визначала, які соціально-економічні фактори слід ураховувати при ухваленні рішень про добровільне об’єднання та розробленні перспективних планів. Проте результати реформи станом на серпень 2018 року були не досить задовільними: було створено 753 об’єднані територіальні громади, які об’єднали 3 492 окремі місцеві спільноти, хоча відповідно до перспективних планів, затверджених Урядом для 23 областей, 7 913 наявних громад мали утворити 1 206 об’єднаних територіальних громад. Наше дослідження присвячено аналізові процесу добровільного об’єднання територіальних громад у контексті реалізації реформи децентралізації в Україні та виявленню соціально-економічних факторів, що цьому сприяють.

У дослідженні було проведено факторний аналіз процесу добровільного об’єднання територіальних громад в Україні в період 2014—2017 рр., на підставі якого визначено соціально-економічні фактори, що є значущими при ухваленні громадами рішення про добровільне об’єднання. Дослідження проводилось за допомогою методу кореляційно-регресійного аналізу зі застосуванням програмного комплексу STATA, було оцінено вплив 24 демографічні та соціально-економічні фактори. Результати дослідження статистичних характеристик економетричних залежностей виявили, що такими факторами є: середній розмір площі землі одного домогосподарства; частка об’єднаних територіальних громад, створених у попередньому році; розмір паїв землі в одному домогосподарстві (своїх та орендованих) і розмір рівня прибутку фермерських господарств у районі.
Pulse Рhotochemical Decomposition of Phenol in Wastewater
Authors: Gonopol'sky A.M. , Shashkovskiy S.G. , Goldstein Y.A. , Kireev S.G. , Volosatova A.D. , Kulebyakina A.I.
Published: March 2020

Photochemical decomposition of phenol with a concentration of 5 to 24 mg/L using hydrogen peroxide and ultraviolet irradiation (UV/H2O2) was studied. Xenon flash lamp was chosen as a radiation source. It emits high-intensity continuous-spectrum radiation in a wide wavelength range from 200 to 1000 nm. The effect of the initial concentration of hydrogen peroxide and the source average radiation power on the phenol destruction rate were studied. An extremum in the dependence of the phenol decomposition rate constant on the initial concentration of hydrogen peroxide was found. Kinetic model of the process based on the obtained data was developed. It was tested by predicting phenol destruction rate with the different process parameters and gave good accuracy.
Increasing Efficiency of Waste Water Treatment of Wine-Making Enterprises with Simultaneous Production of Bio Surface for Oil Industry
Authors: Burakaeva A.D. , Petrova G.V. , Khlytchiev A.I. , Akhalaia N.A. , Sorokun S.V. , Bashirova Z.A.
Published: March 2020

A method for pre-treatment of wastewater with the simultaneous production of biological surface-active substances (bio-surfactants) by deep cultivation of the microscopic fungus Hypomyces odoratus in the wastewater of a winery has been developed. In wastewater after cultivation of the fungus under aerobic conditions for 12 hours, a steady decrease in BOD was observed by 2.5 times, COD by 3 times, the content of suspended solids, sulfates, phosphates, ammonium ions, nitrates, nitrites, anionic surfactants decreased significantly substances (ACAS), cationic surfactants (CAS), wastewater in chemical composition began to approach the indicators of municipal sewage. The complexity of the composition obtained during the cultivation of the biomass fungus and the isolated exopolysaccharide contributed to a decrease in the surface tension of the oil and indicated that the fungus synthesizes the bio-surfactant complex. After contact with a 12-hour mass of fungus or exopolysaccharide obtained from biomass in highly viscous, water-flooded bituminized oil, an improvement in rheological indices was noted, and the water cut and content of paraffin deposits decreased.
Altered Expression of Circulating miR-377 and miR-98 in Relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Hadi Nasrin , Namazi Faezeh , Ketabchi Fatemeh , Khosravian Farinaz , Ravaghi Parisa , Salehi Mansoor
Published: March 2020

Background and Aims: Multiple sclerosis (MS) has been assumed to be a Complex and indecipherable disease, and poorly understood with regard to etiology which is characterized by relapses and remissions. The expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is known to be associated with the regulation of immune responses. Recently, investigations have reported that miRNA expression profiles in blood cells become changed in MS. The aim of this study was to elucidate the alterations in the expression of circulating miR377 and miR-98 in 60 relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients in comparison with controls.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction method to explore the expression of circulating miR-377 and miR-98 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 60 RRMS patients, 30 of whom were recurring patients, 30 were two months after relapse patients, and 30 others were controls, in order to examine the association of expression level of these miRNAs with RRMS.
Results: Results indicated that the expression of miR-377 significantly increases in recurring patients and two months after relapse patients in comparison with controls (p=0.0017 and p=0.0001, respectively). However, miR-98 demonstrated down regulation in recurring patients and two months after relapse patients (p=0.0002 and p=0.0001, respectively).
Conclusions: It can be concluded that miR-377 and miR-98 may be prospective biomarkers with the potential use for diagnosis of RRMS patients in the future investigations.
IL-8 May Be the Target of Arsenic in Human Breast Milk
Authors: Ghorban Khodayar , Dadmanesh Maryam , Sheikh Fathollahi Mahmood , Rezai Zeynab , Ezati Paria , Salmani Mohammad Hossein , Akrami Mohajeri Fatemeh , YousefiDaredor Hasan , Ebrahimi Hasan , Kennedy Derek , Kazemi Arababadi Mohammad
Published: March 2020

Background and Aims: The critical aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of breast-milk contamination with Nickel and Arsenic, as well as aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) on the milk levels of IL-6 and IL-8.
Materials and Methods: Breast milk was collected from 76 mothers on the 30th day post-parturition and milk levels of AFM1, Nickel, Arsenic, IL-6 and IL-8 were evaluated.
Results: The results showed 8 and 29 out of 76 collected samples being contaminated with AFM1, Nickel and Arsenic, respectively. Levels of IL-6 and IL-8 in the milk samples did not differ in AFM1 and Nickel and Arsenic contaminated milk compared with the normal controls (non-contaminated milks). There was a moderate positive relation between milk levels of IL-8 and Arsenic.
Conclusions: Although AFM1, Nickel and Arsenic are the inducers of cytokine production; they are unable to induce secretion of IL-6 in breast milk. Arsenic can be a trigger of IL-8, which is a strong chemoattract for neutrophils. Thus, it appears that Arsenic may induce an inflammation in milk in IL-8 dependent manner.
Protests Against Controversial Art As a Political Strategy
Authors: Karolina-Dzhoanna Gomes , Konstantinovna Eyngorn Nonna
Published: March 2020

The article discusses the phenomenon of politically motivated public outrage around art in Russia. The history of protests against art in Russia is relatively short but intense. Since 90’s there occurred a number of attacks on art, the majority of which were protests against art that in some way expressed criticism of current state policy or Russian Orthodox Church. It may seem that in Russia the moral majority decides the fate of controversial artistic events, but as this article argues, that conflicts around art are frequently used by religious fundamentalists and nationalist right-wing groups to pursue their own political agendas and gain popularity in the media.
Keywords: hate spin, contemporary art, public censorship, offense, Russia, religious fundamentalism, SERB, vandalism
People and Myths in Mediaspace: On the Question of Cultural Ecology
Authors: . N. B. Kirillova
Published: March 2020

Considering the role of media culture as a factor of the information age, the author argues that media reality – the new socio-cultural environment artificially created during the digital revolution – is mythological. This means that the myth becomes a certain control mechanism; penetrating into the individual’s inner world of, it affects both conscious and unconscious spheres, “programs” them. In this regard, the “cultural ecology” of the media space becomes particularly important. The crucial part of such ecology is the system of edia education contributing to the formation of a new personality type for the 21st century.
Keywords: digital revolution, mediaculture, media reality, media space, myth, mythopoeia, mediaeducation, cultural ecology.
"Brain-mimicking Machine" in Digital Utopias: From Memex to Hypertext and Beyond
Authors: Yu. Stepanchuk
Published: March 2020

Computer-brain analogies are ubiquitous in contemporary culture. They also have a long and relevant history. Throughout the history of computer development, computers as “brain-mimicking machines” were used as blueprints for computer design, as inspiration for new visionary ideas, as tools of liberation and as ideological construct obscuring actually existing power relations. Today, with the growing disenchantment with the results of digital transformation, we are forced to admit that these analogies often underpin relationships between human and technology that are disempowering and increasingly problematic.
Keywords: human-machine symbiosis, augmented reality, memex, hypertext, ideology, Web 2.0, platform capitalism
Homo Informaticus in the Modern Information and Cultural Space: Challenges, Opportunities and Value Orientations
Authors: O. V. Shlykova
Published: March 2020

The author attempts to reveal the specifics of the modern information and cultural space as a phenomenon of being an individual and society – society ”fleeing”, ”elusive picture of the world”, ”fluid modernity”. Given the predictions of futurists with respect to culture ”new features”, its trends, and the role of human ”information” - the Posthuman in the digital civilization. Noting the complexity of understanding the actual culture (polyparadigmality of research positions, transit methodology, etc.), the author focuses on the importance of finding effective mechanisms of harmonization of cultural content and technological ”breakthroughs”, which, despite the axiological risks of cultural mutation and substitution of human artificial intelligence, have the potential for a positive impact on the world order through the institutions of science, education, culture, forming cultural” and human capital.
Keywords: digital culture, information, identity, digital nomads
Liberty, Equality and Not Too Much Fraternity: An Experience in Practical Application of Liberal Education Teaching Techniques
Authors: M. V Vorobyova , E. I. Rabinovich
Published: March 2020

The paper explores an experience in practical application of liberal education teaching techniques. We describe the most frequently used techniques and present sample classroom assignments based on this framework. We also discuss the opportunities and limitations provided by the use of these methods in a classroom setting.
Keywords: teaching techniques, liberal education, writing and analytical reading, humanities teaching.
Cultural Interpretation: From Method to Methodology
Authors: N.A. Simbirtseva
Published: March 2020

The method of cultural interpretation is considered as a way to comprehend the processes of culture in their integrity and particular phenomena from the point of their inclusion in the general cultural context. The interpretation underlying the method is  a complex procedure of interpretation and comprehension of reality.  It is important in research and educational practices. As an alternative, a technique of segmental analysis of the visual image is proposed, which allows to solve general pedagogical tasks.
Keywords: method of cultural interpretation, interpretation, segmental analysis technique, visual image, general pedagogical tasks
Architectural Space of the City As a Value System (On the Example of Karaganda)
Authors: L. R. Zolotareva
Published: March 2020

The research article is dedicated to the 85th anniversary of Karaganda (Kazakhstan), which determines its relevance. The author considers formal, artistic, aesthetic, historical, sacral, public and individual, ideological and other values, which are closely interrelated. On the example of the architectural space of Karaganda, the system of values is analyzed, and this contributes to the formation of a social and ethno-cultural consciousness.
Keywords: architectural space, Karaganda, city history, value system, social and cultural environment
STATURE AND STATUS: HEIGHT PERCEPTIONS AND ASPIRATIONS OF SELECTED FILIPINO YOUTH
Authors: Jonathan O. Taduran Richard
Published: March 2020

Purpose of the study: This study aimed to provide an explanation of the perceptions of height by selected Filipino youth and discuss the factors that shape these perceptions. By exploring these factors, this study gives an overview of the extended height affects an individual's experience and aspirations. Methodology: Both quantitative and qualitative surveys were conducted on 300 youth participants (150 males and 150 females), where they rated 30 statements and answered open-ended questions. Quantitative data were analyzed statistically, and qualitative data were arranged into a comprehensive matrix and thematic coding of responses. Main findings: Height mainly symbolizes three components: advantage, capability, and desirability. Participants believe that being tall is an advantage in playing sports, will open up opportunities for work, and can help in doing everyday tasks. Height can also be a key to attracting the opposite sex. The ‘bigger is better’ prejudice appears to extend to a person’s experiences as well—short people’s experiences differ from those of taller people. Benefits brought by tallness is so sought that many exert extra efforts to grow taller. Tall bodies demonstrate a non-economic advantage that gives higher status and sociopolitical distinction in society. Implications: The topic of body size is potent for analyzing culture and power. This study provides evidence on the biases on height perception by the Filipino youth and can be useful in future studies relating to height. Originality/Novelty of the study: There are either limited or no studies concentrating on cultural perceptions of height conducted in developing countries such as the Philippines. Moreover, the height of Filipinos has rarely been reported, and the data that are available tend to be in relatively obscure publications.
PhD Theses by Faroese scientists or on Faroese subjects defended in 2018
Authors: Editor E.
Published: March 2020

-
May cyproheptadine be a treatment choice for prophylaxis of PFAPA syndrome?
Authors: EKİCİ Arzu
Published: March 2020

No abstract available.
A Justiça Climática e Educação Ambiental nas aprendizagens do cotidiano das mulheres das comunidades tradicionais do Mato Grosso/ Brasil e Galícia/Espanha.
Authors: Manfrinate Rosana , Sato Michèle , Pazos Araceli Serante
Published: March 2020

No contexto das mudanças climáticas, as mulheres das comunidades tradicionais têm se apresentado como um grupo vulnerável em razão da sua ligação com a natureza e da não consideração dos seus saberes tradicionais. Assim, buscamos compreender quais são os princípios dos saberes tradicionais das mulheres dessas comunidades que compartilhados com a Educação Ambiental passem a ser um movimento de pré-existência para a Justiça Climática. A metodologia utilizada foi a Cartografia do Imaginário, especificando o elemento Ar. Entrevistamos mulheres de três comunidades tradicionais: As pantaneiras e quilombolas de Mato Grosso, no Brasil; e as mariscadoras da região da Galícia, na Espanha. Acreditamos, dessa maneira que a Educação Ambiental possa contribuir com novos pensamentos unindo-se ao conhecimento tradicional para construção da Justiça Climática.
Sometimes Hidden but Always There: Assumptions Behind Demographic Inference from Ancient DNA Data
Authors: Loog Liisa
Published: March 2020

Demographic processes directly affect patterns of genetic variation within contemporary populations as well as future generations, allowing for demographic inference from patterns of both present day and past genetic variation. Advances in laboratory procedures and sequencing and genotyping technologies in the last decades have resulted in massive increases in high quality genome-wide genetic data from present day populations and allowed retrieving genetic data from archaeological material, also known as ancient DNA. This has resulted in an explosion of work exploring past changes in population size, structure, continuity and movement. However, as genetic processes are highly stochastic, patterns of genetic variation only indirectly reflect demographic histories. As a result, past demographic processes need to be reconstructed using an inferential approach. This usually involves comparing observed patterns of variation with model expectations from theoretical population genetics. A large number of approaches have been developed based on different population genetic models that each come with assumptions about the data and underlying demography. In this article I review some of the key models and assumptions underlying the most commonly used approaches for past demographic inference and their consequences for our ability to link the inferred demographic processes to the archaeological and climate records.
Multiple Modern Methods of Blood Pressure Measurement and the 2018 European Society of Hypertesion Guidelines
Authors: Gorbunov V. M. , Fedorova E. Y. , Platonova E. V.
Published: March 2020

The new international guidelines on hypertension management have been issued in the past few years. The AHA (2017) and ESH (2018) Guidelines are similar in many key aspects. However, they differ substantially in the area of blood pressure (BP) measurement methodology. In this article, we aim to explain the ESC Guidelines position, specifically the conservative BP thresholds and a wider use of ambulatory BP measurement methods. In our opinion, the main reason behind this position is the introduction and a relatively widespread use of automatic office BP measurement (AOBP). On one hand, this method has questioned the results of the SPRINT trial – the key evidence source for the AHA Guidelines. On the other hand, AOBP has challenged the concept of “traditional office BP measurement”. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the current multiplicity of BP measurement methods and respective threshold values recommended for each method. It is essential to perform the office BP measurement correctly and thoroughly. Throughout all stages of the hypertensive patient management (diagnosis, antihypertensive treatment choice, and long-term observation), the use of out-of-clinic BP measurement is strongly advisable.
Arrhythmias in Patients after Surgical Myocardial Revascularization
Authors: Zakirov N. U. , Kevorkov A. G. , Rasulov A. S. , Tursunov E. Y.
Published: March 2020

This work represents literature review data regarding the study of the effect of surgical myocardial revascularization on the processes of electrical myocardial instability underlying the onset of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, as well as the possibilities for its non-invasive assessment by studying the heart rhythm variability and turbulence. Analyzed data demonstrated that, relying only on the presence of a viable myocardium, it is often impossible to predict the positive effect of revascularization on the prognosis in patients, especially those with reduced myocardial contractility. Considering the well-studied relationship between myocardial remodeling and neurohormonal activation, such non-invasive methods for assessing vegetative regulation of cardiac activity, as heart rate variability and turbulence may provide additional diagnostic information. The literature data indicate that heart failure, ventricular arrhythmias and recurrences of angina and myocardial infarction are the main problems that determine an unfavorable outcome in the postoperative period. There is important evidence that violations of the vegetative regulation of the heart, the heterogeneity of repolarization processes in the myocardium are integral indicators of the morphofunctional changes occurring in the process of coronary heart disease (CHD) progression. The role of indicators of heart rate variability and turbulence as predictors of sudden cardiac death was proved, mainly due to fatal ventricular heart rhythm disorders and cardiovascular mortality. Along with this, changes in these indicators, and their prognostic role in patients with CHD in revascularization are the subject of discussion, which determines the relevance of further studies on the effect of various methods of revascularization on the electrical instability of the myocardium, as one of the most important factors in the development of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias that are predictors of sudden cardiac death, especially in patients who previously had acute myocardial infarction. Besides it is important to study the effect of myocardial revascularization on the indicators of cardiac autonomic regulation and the possibility of their use as prognostic criteria before and after surgery.
A Socio-Cultural approach on learning in the virtual classrooms- key implications for practice
Authors: Bhandari Renu
Published: March 2020

As online classrooms have recently become integral to the teaching of Business Education in the United Kingdom (UK) and as a key challenge here is to use available resources effectively, all business teachers must be proficient in deploying virtual learning. Most international students entering Business Education do not know how to use a virtual learning environment (VLE); many are grappling with the transition to adult life, living alone and away from families. All business teachers are therefore responsible for engaging and involving each of them; by adopting a socio-cultural model in virtual learning classrooms, they can work with students on the gradual development of key business skills and characteristics with potentially broad application. This article discusses: a socio-cultural approach to the online teaching and learning of Business Education, together with implications for practice; the socio-cultural model proposed by Brenton (2014), with its key elements – people (who), shared purpose (why), locating framework and social conditions (where), method (how) and activity (what). This particular model clearly incorporates the social and cultural characteristics of the student in business; it explains to students and develops in them such key business skills as problem-solving, creative thinking, communication, planning and organisation; it encourages in them self-management, self-efficacy, self-monitoring and a sense of responsibility. All of these skills and characteristics enhance employability and pave the way to future success in business enterprise. Understanding what Business Education students each bring to the virtual classroom is therefore essential to the creation of independent learners. The article focuses on the cultivation of collaboration in online classrooms and on developing communities of learning, with ideas for practice; it outlines the role of the lecturer in the virtual classroom, especially in sustaining inclusivity; it concludes by affirming the importance of lecturers’ development of a social collaborative process in virtual classrooms, of their establishment of an inclusive online ethos and of their encouragement of skills that enhance employability and lead to success in business too. Many learners with anxiety, shyness and personal barriers to integration with other business students can benefit from the application of a socio-cultural model in VLEs. There are clear implications for all key stakeholders – students, lecturers, policy makers and developers of online classroom technology.
Role play as a teaching method to improve student learning experience of a bachelor degree programme in a transnational context: an action research study
Authors: Ma Zheng Feei
Published: March 2020

Role play provides additional learning opportunity to students by interacting with other students in classrooms. Modes of delivery in modules for a bachelor degree programme at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool (XJTLU) (a transnational education (TNE) provider) are mainly teacher-led lectures and seminars. Intuitive proactive approach was used in my action research. The modified role play method by Kodotchigova was used. After the role play, a survey with open-ended questions (modified from XJTLU Student Module Feedback Questionnaire) was used to collect the perceptions of students of the role play on their learning experience. A total of 25 students aged ≥18 years (20 females and 5 males) consented to participate. There were 80% of the students who reported that role play helped them to learn and 72% of the students reported that role play stimulated their interest in the module’s subject. In conclusion, role play was a very useful teaching strategy to help students to demonstrate the practical use and apply to real life situations after learning different theoretical perspectives. However, role play might not be suitable to all students because some students might prefer to have it mixed with other teaching strategies in classrooms, particularly in a TNE context.
Lecturer passion: a pre-requisite for inspirational teaching
Authors: Robson Robert
Published: March 2020

With reference to the ever-changing landscape within higher education and the issue of marketplace differentiation, it has been suggested that universities need to prioritise the quality of the overall student experience including the quality of classroom teaching (Holbeche 2012). In the light of this, it is evident that institutions of higher education are attempting to address the upskilling of their lecturers through a blend of initiatives. This is important because research studies have shown that students value effective teaching and expect  their lecturers to possess a range of key teaching qualities. However, results from student evaluations show that concerns over teaching quality persist. I would argue that the true catalyst for transformational change is the passion for teaching which an individual lecturer personally feels. A lecturer with a genuine passion for teaching will be motivated to continually fine-tune and hone their craft and to seek to perfect the art of teaching. Lecturers who are genuinely passionate for their teaching craft will be driven not only by the satisfaction they derive from their classroom ‘performance’,  but also by the eventual learning outcomes for the student. It is the passion for teaching that drives teaching excellence. From the students’ perspective, the ability to inspire is the criterion against which lecturer performance will be measured. Keywords1. Teaching quality2. Inspirational teaching3. Lecturer self-development4. Learning enhancement
Health and health equity among rural poor residents in the context of China’s targeted poverty alleviation policy: evidence from Shaanxi province
Authors: Dai Xiuliang , Wang Lijian , Ren Yangling
Published: March 2020

Background: China’s targeted poverty alleviation policy is having a profound impact on the country’s rural economic and social development now. This study aimed to learn about the health status and health equity of rural poor residents under the implementation of the policy. It further explores the factors affecting the health status and health equity of rural poor residents, in order to contribute to the improvement of the policy.Methods: Data from 1,233 rural poor residents were derived from a questionnaire survey from 12 prefecture-level cities and areas of Shaanxi province in 2017, and a self-evaluation of health was used to reflect the health status. A concentration index was applied to measure the inequity of the health status of rural poor residents. The decomposition method was employed to explore the source of health inequity.Results: The results showed that 44.56% of rural poor residents in Shaanxi province had a poor or very poor health status, which was affected by their economic level, gender, age, the degree of education, and marital status. Additionally, participation in industry development, relocation, health poverty alleviation, and basic living standards were significantly correlated with the health status. The concentration index of the health status of rural poor residents in Shaanxi province was 0.0327. The primary contributors to the health inequity in different regions varied, but the economic level and the degree of education were the most significant factors, and the targeted poverty alleviation policy had a significant impact on the health equity.Conclusions：The results indicated that the health status of rural poor residents in Shaanxi province was generally poor, there was a pro-rich inequity in the health status, and the degree of education and economic level were the primary factors affecting the health status and health equity. The targeted poverty alleviation policy greatly impacted the health status and health equity, and the difference in health status would lead to the inequity of benefits of the targeted poverty alleviation policy. In the future, the policy should focus on ensuring the sustainable development ability of rural residents with poor health status.
The diagnostic value of combined indexes in Acute Renal injury after Cardiopulmonary Bypass Surgery in infants with Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Yu Haifei , Wang Xinrui , Chen Qiang , Xu Liangpu , Cao Hua
Published: March 2020

Objective: To investigate the incidence and risk factors of acute renal injury (AKI) after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) cardiac surgery in infants with congenital heart disease(CHD). Methods: Single-center data from a total of 613 infants with congenital heart disease who underwent cardiothoracic surgery in Fujian Union Hospital.The included patients were divided into two groups according to the occurrence of AKI: AKI group (n = 68) and non-AKI group (n = 92). We obtained clinical data from the electronic hospitalization information system and the laboratory database. All infants were tested for serum creatinine at least twice within 12 hours of admission and after operation. We determined AKI events according to creatinine criteria for improving global prognosis of renal diseases.The general and clinical data of the infants were collected, and the related risk factors were explored by univariate analysis and Logistic regression analysis. Results: 160 patients had congruent lab and echocardiogram data foranalysis. Most of patients are male (56.26%). Original congenital cardiac malformation is similar with our study, the most common is left-to-right shunt CHD(58%), followed by right-to-left shunt CHD(18.75%). All patients showed differences in liver function, renal function, cardiac function and inflammatory indexes within 12 hours of admission and after operation(p<0.05). The AKI group and non-AKI group showed Significant statistical difference in arein age, serum myocardial enzyme , hepatic function, ejection fraction , hemoglobin , platelet count were significantly different meaning (p<0.05). Regression analyses showed that blood oxygen saturation (95%CI 1.003-2.999), CREA(95%CI 1.070-1.253), UREA(95%CI 1.180-3.325), CRP(95%CI 1.006-1.058), BNP(95%CI 0.999-1.000) at 12 hours postoperatively, and in admission to PCT (95%CI 0.461-0.936), Neu(95%CI 0.909-0.995), ALP(95%CI 1.070-1.253) , nadir intraoperative renal regional tissue oximetry to be independent predictors of postoperative kidney damage as measured by blood oxygen saturation, hepatic function, kidney function, cardiac function , Serum myocardial enzyme , inflammatory factor s and blood Routine . Conclusions: Choosing the best age for infants's cardiac surgery, actively preventing preoperative complica- tions, postoperative pneumonia, heart failure and hypoxia play an important role in preventing AKI.
Synergistic bactericidal effect of low-frequency and low-intensity ultrasound combined with levofloxacin-loaded nanoparticles on M. smegmatis in macrophages
Authors: Xie Shuang , Li Gangjing , Hou Yuru , Yang Min , Li Fahui , Li Jianhu , Li Dairong , Du Yonghong
Published: March 2020

Purpose Tuberculosis is a highly infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) which often parasites in macrophages. The present study was to investigate the bactericidal effect and underlying mechanisms of low-frequency and low-intensity ultrasound (LFLIU) combined with levofloxacin-loaded nanoparticles (LEV-NPs) on M. smegmatis (a surrogate of Mtb )in macrophages. Methods and results LEV-NPs were prepared by a double emulsiﬁcation method. The characterization, such as average diameter, zeta potential, polydispersity index and morphology, and in-vitro drug release efficiency of LEV-NPs were investigated. M. smegmatis in macrophages was treated by LEV-NPs combined with 42 kHz ultrasound irradiation at an intensity of 0.13 W/cm 2 for 10 min. The results showed ultrasound could significantly promote phagocytosis of nanoparticles by macrophages ( p <0.05), further ultrasound combined with LEV-NPs could promote the production of macrophage ROS, and the apoptosis rate of macrophages was significantly higher than that of the control ( p <0.05). Transmission electronic microscope showed M. smegmatis cell wall was ruptured, the cell structure was incomplete, and the bacteria received severe damage in the ultrasound combined with the LEV-NPs group. Activity assays showed that ultrasound combined with LEV-NPs exhibited 10-fold higher antibacterial activity against M. smegmatis residing inside macrophages compared with free drug. Conclusion Our data demonstrate that ultrasound combined with LEV-NPs have a great potential to therapy of tuberculosis.
Identifying Muscle Growth-Related Genes of Mandarin Fish (Siniperca chuatsi) by Transcriptome, and Exploring the Expression in Different Sizes and Compensatory Growth
Authors: Liu Xuange , Zeng Shuang , Liu Shuang , Wang Gongpei , Lai Han , Zhao Xiaopin , Bi Sheng , Guo Dingli , Chen Xiaoli , Yi Huadong , Su Yuqing , Li Guifeng
Published: March 2020

BackgroundHow organisms display many different biochemical, physiological processes through genes expression and regulatory mechanisms affecting muscle growth is a central issue in growth and development. In Siniperca chuatsi, the growth-related genes and underlying relevant mechanisms are poorly understood, especially for difference of body sizes and compensatory growth performance. ResultsThe muscle from different sizes of individuals was subjected to transcriptome analysis by RNA-sequencing. Results showed that 8,942 different expression genes (DEGs) were identified after calculating the RPKM. The DEGs involved in GH-IGF pathways, protein synthesis, ribosome synthesis and energy metabolisms, which were expressed at higher level in small individuals (S), whereas in the large fish (L) little expression was found. In repletion feeding and compensatory growth experiments, 8 more significant DEGs were used for further research (GHR2, IGFR1, 4ebp, Mhc, Mlc, Myf6, MyoD, troponin), and this research revealed different temporal and spatial expression patterns of these genes. When food was plentiful, 8 genes participated in and promoted the growth and muscle synthesis, respectively. Starvation can be shown to inhibit the expression of Mhc, Mlc and troponin, and high expression of GHR2, IGFR1 and 4ebp inhibited growth. MyoD can sense and regulate the hunger and work with Mhc and Mlc to accelerate the compensatory growth of S.chuatsi. ConclusionsThis study is helpful to understand the regulation mechanisms of muscle growth-related genes. The elected genes will contribute to the selective breeding in future as candidate genes.
High Resolution Melting Analysis in Leishmania Resistance: The Role of Multi Drug Resistance 1 Gene
Authors: Abadi Maryam Fekri Soofi , Moradabadi Alireza , Vahidi Reza , Rad Iman , Dabiri Shahriar
Published: March 2020

Objective Pentavalent antimonial compounds are currently used to treat Leishmaniasis. Resistance to these drugs is a serious problem. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mutations in the multi-drug resistance 1 (MDR1) gene in biopsy specimens of Leishmania Tropica with high resolution melting (HRM) method.Results In this experimental study, genomic DNA was extracted from 130 patients with skin Leishmaniasis. Then, nucleotide changes were investigated throughout the gene length using HRM and sequencing methods. The results of the nucleotide changes showed that 61% of the samples that were unresponsive to drug had mutations in the MDR1 gene in different groups, which were confirmed by the sequencing method. These mutations can be one of the factors responsible for non-response to the treatment of the disease. HRM method can be used to diagnose drug resistance in Leishmaniasis. It is also recommended that further studies be done regarding the importance of drug resistance in the affected patients.
Demonstration of the temporal evolution of serum markers of skeletal muscle ischaemia reperfusion injury - An observational clinical study.
Authors: GOONERATNE THUSHAN DHANANJA , Homer-Vanniasinkam Shervanthi , Wijeyaratne Serosha Mandika
Published: March 2020

Objective The study aimed to investigate the temporal evolution of markers of skeletal muscle ischaemia reperfusion injury (IRI) to shed more light into its pathogenesis towards finding a clinical therapeutic intervention. P-selectin, Myeloperoxidase and TNF-alpha were selected as markers of IRI based on their role in its pathogenesis. An observational study was conducted on patients with skeletal muscle ischaemia requiring revascularization. Loco-regional venous sampling was performed at 0, +2, +4, +6, +12 and +24 hours post-reperfusion to demonstrate the temporal evolution of surrogate markers of IRI.Results Levels of P-Selectin, Myeloperoxidase and TNF-alpha demonstrated a significant peak elevation during 2h - 4h following reperfusion when compared to baseline values. (P-selectin 59.48pg/ml to 125.91pg/ml, p=0.008; Myeloperoxidase 78.84pg/ml to 116.86pg/ml, p=0.051; TNF-alpha 1.80pg/ml to 34.53pg/ml, p=0.002) All three markers gradually subsided with time and reached baseline pre-perfusion values between 6h – 8h from time of reperfusion. The study suggests that skeletal muscle IRI in humans is associated with an early exaggerated pro-inflammatory response, as supported by increased expression of reperfusion injury markers in the venous effluent. They demonstrate potential for use as markers of IRI for future clinical trials.
Patterns And Correlates Of Substance Use: Cross Sectional Exploratory Study Among Health Care Workers In Bungoma County, Kenya
Authors: Kolongei Titus Kipchirchir , Osero Justus , Gachau Albert
Published: March 2020

Background: This was a cross sectional exploratory study that examined data obtained from health care workers on substance use in Bungoma County Kenya. Methods: This was a cross sectional exploratory study in selected health facilities in three sub counties of Bungoma County. This study used a two-stage cluster sampling technique and systematic sampling to select the respondents. The study sample was (N= 237 ) among health care workers in selected facilities in 3 sub counties of Bungoma county .The study response rate was 96.3 %(237/247) . Self-reported data on substance use during their lifetime, use in the past 12 months and past 30 days was used as key parameters to determine patterns and correlates of substance Results: As compared with females, males were found to have a greater like hood of substance use, having family member with a history of substance use and a colleague who uses substances were key predictors for substance use. Substance use prevalence without generalization to the population of Health care workers (HCWs) in this study shows a high prevalence of lifetime substance use (35.02, 29.17- 41.36) concurs with findings in a study in Machakos and Nairobi (Mokaya et al 2018). Alcohol had the highest lifetime prevalence rate (33%) Conclusion; Alcohol use among HCW had the highest prevalence with socio-demographic factors on gender, family and peer influence associated with substance use among health workers. The study findings suggest preventive interventions against substance use are required at family level and among peers. Further research is needed on substance abuse, dependence, reasons for substance use and how it affects health workers performance Keywords: Substance Use, abuse, dependence, patterns, correlates, lifetime use
Postpartum Depression and Anxiety among Lebanese women: correlates and scales validation
Authors: Hobeika Eva , Outayek Miguella , Malaeb Diana , Hobeika Elie , Salameh Pascale , Kheir Nelly , Obeid Sahar , Sleiman Zaki , Barakat Habib , Hallit Souheil
Published: March 2020

Background The last study conducted in Lebanon about postpartum depression dates back to 2014, whereas no studies have been conducted to assess postpartum anxiety (PPA). The shortage of research in this field and the potential opportunities to provide different aspects of postpartum care that respond to women's needs require a deeper understanding of the various problems faced by postpartum women. The study objectives were to delineate some factors associated with postnatal depression and anxiety among a sample of Lebanese women 4-6 weeks after delivery and validate the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale (PASS) in Arabic language in that sample.Methods This cross-sectional study, carried out between July 2018 and March 2019, enrolled 295 participants who came for a postnatal checkup to four clinics.Results Higher postpartum anxiety (Beta=0.25), higher insomnia (Beta=0.11) and having complications during delivery (Beta=1.81) were associated with higher postpartum depression. Higher postpartum depression score (Beta=1.38) and a premature baby birth compared to those born at term with normal weight (Beta=4.25) were associated with higher postpartum anxiety. The factor analysis for the EPDS and the PASS scales was run over the whole sample. The EPDS and PASS scales items converged over a solution of three and seven factors that had an Eigenvalue over 1 respectively, explaining a total of 64.73% and 65.12% of the variance respectively. High Cronbach’s alpha values were found for the EPDS (0.826) and PASS (0.920) scales.Conclusion Depression and anxiety prevalence rates in the Lebanese population is higher compared to other countries which may in part be due to differences of regional, social, and environmental culture. Different etiological factors could contribute to both depression and anxiety in the postpartum period, which could adversely affect both the mother and the infant.
Integrated analysis profiles of long non–coding RNAs reveal potential biomarkers across brain regions in post–traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Bian Yaoyao , Yang Lili , Wang Zhongli , Li Wen , Wang Qing , Zhang Bin , Zhao Min , Wang Long , Zhi Yicheng , Xu Guihua
Published: March 2020

Background Post–traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by impaired fear extinction, excessive anxiety and depression. However, underlying mechanisms, especially the function roles of long non–coding RNAs (lncRNAs) involved in PTSD is still unclear. We argued that the lncRNAs, co–expressed mRNAs, as well as the associated pathways, are altered and may thus serve as potential biomarkers and key pathways related to PTSD.Methods The gene expression profiles of GSE68077 was downloaded from the GEO database, and the differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs were identified. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway (KEGG) enrichment analysis were performed. Subsequently, protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was analyzed, and module analysis of the differentially expressed mRNAs was performed with Cytoscape software. Finally, lncRNAs–mRNAs co–expression network was constructed and core pair lncRNAs involved in PTSD were mapped.Results A total of 45 differentially expressed lncRNAs and 726 differentially expressed mRNAs were obtained. Among of which, 17 lncRNAs and 86 mRNAs were inter–regulated, and most of the lncRNAs–mRNAs co–expression showed positive correlations. The lncRNAs–mRNAs co–expressed network suggested the potentially functional roles of lncRNAs, regulated mRNAs and related pathways in PTSD. By implication of the core pair network, lncRNA–NONMMUT010120.2 synergistically up–regulated Ppargc1a and down–regulated Cir1, Slc38a9, Atp6v0a2. Moreover, lncRNA–NONMMUT023440.2, NONMMUT034155.2, NONMMUT105407.1 and NONMMUT149972.1 were co–expressed with 10 co–expressed mRNAs, which indicated that lncRNAs involved in PTSD might work by regulating the co–expressed mRNAs.