bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Academic Writing: Attitudes and Self-Efficacy
Authors: Nga Tran Thanh
Published: June 2022

Academic writing is an indispensable requirement at tertiary level. The relationship between writing skills and attitudes towards writing has received much attention from scholars. However, less is known about how EFL learners’ attitudes towards academic writing are correlated with their self-efficacy in this particular skill. Thus, the present study aims at examining this relationship among third-year English major learners at a university in Ho Chi Minh City. A total of 89 learners participated in the study by completing a questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using quantitative methods. Results showed that there was no difference in academic writing self-efficacy among the participants whereas the females felt more positive about their academic writing compared to the males. Notably, a correlation exists between academic writing attitudes and self-efficacy. These findings confirmed the need of raising teachers’ awareness of motivational factors that can increase academic writing attitudes and self-efficacy among EFL learners.
Teacher and Peer Supports on EFL Learners’ Autonomy
Authors: Quyen Thach Thi
Published: June 2022

The role of teacher and peer autonomy support place great importance on boosting learners' autonomy. Meanwhile, the first agent enables students to gain the feeling of acceptance and confidence, the second one supports them to deal with challenging tasks. This current research was carried out to dip into such social agents on learners’ autonomy with three main objectives. The purpose of this study is to dip into such social agents on learners’ autonomy with three main objectives. Firstly, the role of teacher autonomy support was examined. Secondly, the role of peer autonomy support was also investigated. Lastly, the role from which side more important in enhancing EFL learners' autonomy was analyzed. A survey through distributing a questionnaire was used to collect data of 58 adolescent participants from three classes, whose age ranges from 12 to 15 years old and whose English level is intermediate in a language center in Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City. The findings revealed that both social supports played a significant role in promoting EFL learners' autonomy. However, teacher autonomy support appeared to be more important than the other. Such roles were deeply acknowledged, as teachers, we can provide students with necessary supports by applying different teaching practices or supplying suitable materials. Cultural aspects and psychological development stages need to be taken into teachers’ consideration to understand students’ behaviours in the classroom. Moreover, the role of peer is also vital to promote learners’ autonomy, which partly makes mixed ability groups become a suitable way in the class discussion.
Factors Influencing Non-English Major Tertiary Students’ Engagement in Vietnamese EFL Classes: An Investigation
Authors: Nguyen Uyen Tran Tu , Pham Yen Hoang , To Thanh Thanh
Published: June 2022

Student engagement plays a vital role in their performance in in-class activities. The importance of student engagement in a foreign language class has been proved in many prior studies. Most of them have mainly focused on students' and teachers’ perceptions towards student engagement in learning English. However, the current paper quantitively analyzed factors affecting student engagement and its correlation between variables. There are two research questions: 1) What factors influence non-English major tertiary students in Vietnamese EFL class; and 2) To what extent do those factors correlate with non-English major students’ engagement in English classrooms? The study’s questionnaire was delivered to 83 non-English major tertiary students studying in a public university in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The findings found that motivation made a more significant contribution to student engagement than the three others (e.g., teacher-student interaction, family engagement, and peer support for learning). In this paper, the correlations between student engagement and those factors were found to be significantly positive. Based on the results, the present study’s implication was that teachers and school managers should form a strong relationship with students’ parents to manage their learning process and share education opinions related to boosting student engagement in EFL classrooms. The study also suggested more future research investigating influences of student engagement with different methods to generalize this field.
Surgical technologies of sutured iris fixation of the dislocated IOL — fibrosed capsular bag complex
Authors: Nikitin V. N. , Ivanov D. I.
Published: June 2022

Purpose. To present various techniques of surgical treatment with the dislocation of the IOL — fibrosed capsular bag complex, and to analyze their clinical and functional results.

Material and methods. 50 patients (mean age 75.7 ± 1.3 years) who received surgery with IOL-capsular bag complex (ICBC) were divided into 2 groups according to the applied treatment tactics. Tactics 1 consisted in suturing ICBC to the iris on the support needle without manipulations with the capsular bag (26 eyes). Tactic 2 involved IOL suturing to the iris in combination with various manipulations on the capsular bag, aimed at partial or complete removal of fibrous tissue (24 eyes). The follow-up period ranged from 4 to 6 years.

Results. The criteria affecting the choice of the treatment technique were determined: integrity of the Zinn ligament, manifestation of capsular bag fibrosis (phimosis of the anterior capsulorhexis, fibrosis of the posterior capsule); impact of changes in the capsular bag structure on the correct position of the IOL (frontal inclination of the IOL, inversion of haptic elements to the optic zone); presence of a prolapse of the vitreous body; Semmering's ring with a high risk of the release of lens masses. A frequency occurrence analysis of the proposed criteria showed their importance in the choice of surgical treatment technique in patients with mixed type ICBC dislocation. Remote functional results of the operations are presented.

Conclusion. The proposed low invasive methods of surgical treatment of patients with the dislocation of the IOL — fibrosed capsular bag complex are reliable and technically simple. Relative indications to choosing the treatment method with dislocation of the IOL-fibrosed capsular bag complex have been determined for various combinations of the proposed criteria.
The structure of human retinal vasculature and interstitium in the terminal stage of primary openangle glaucoma
Authors: Bgatova N. P. , Obanina N. A. , Eremina A. V. , Trunov A. N. , Chernykh V. V.
Published: June 2022

Purpose: to study the structural organization of the vascular bed of human retina in the terminal stage of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).

Material and methods. We performed a comparative immunohistochemical analysis of the content of vessels in the retina of 13 eyes of patients in the terminal stage of POAG, enucleated for medical reasons, and 17 eyes with uveal melanoma, using the markers of blood vessels endothelium CD34. The ultrastructural organization of the interstitium and endothelial cells of retinal microvessels was studied by electron microscopy and morphometry.

Results. A significant increase in the volume density of the interstitium and a decrease in the volume density of CD34+-blood vessels in the retina of patients in the terminal stage of POAG, as compared with uveal melanoma, were revealed. An increased volume density of luminal and basal caveolae and the formation of transendothelial channels in the cytoplasm of endotheliocytes of retinal blood capillaries in the terminal stage of POAG were noted.

Conclusion. In the terminal stage of POAG, the interstitial spaces of the retina are increased and the volume density of blood vessels is dropping. The increased volume density of luminal and basal caveolae and the formation of transendothelial channels in the cytoplasm of blood capillary endotheliocytes indicate the growth of transcytosis and the permeability of the blood-retinal barrier.
Ophthalmic hypertension in patients after vitreoretinal surgery with various tamponades of the vitreal cavity
Authors: Akulov S. N. , Kabardina E. V. , Bronnikova N. S.
Published: June 2022

Purpose. To analyze the cases of ophthalmic hypertension in patients after vitreoretinal surgery with various tamponades of the vitreal cavity.

 Material and methods. We analyzed 344 case histories of patients aged 30 to 80 who underwent vitreoretinal intervention with various tamponades of the vitreal cavity for macular rupture, epiretinal membrane, hemophthalmia, retinal detachment in 2019–2021. To detect ophthalmic hypertension, all patients underwent tonometry before surgery and every month after it during the entire 2-year follow-up period.

Results. Of the 46 patients who were diagnosed with ophthalmic hypertension after vitreoretinal surgery, 18 patients achieved intraocular pressure compensation within the 2 year follow-up and they required no hypotensive therapy. 28 patients, including 4 patients who had glaucoma before vitreoretinal intervention were prescribed hypotensive therapy (carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, 2 adrenomimetics), 2 patients received an implantation of an Express anti-glaucomatous device.

Conclusions. The analysis of ophthalmic hypertension in patients after vitreoretinal surgery showed that post-surgical IOP increase occurs both in cases of applying tamponade with silicon oil and those using sterile air or gasair mixture. Intraocular pressure compensation follows different patterns in every case, so that an individual approach is needed. Using one antihypertensive drug may be insufficient so in some cases a stronger antihypertensive therapy is required and sometimes anti-glaucomatous surgical interventions have to be resorted to.
Bilateral acute angle closure due to choroidal effusion: a case report
Authors: Shteyner I. I. , Zubkova E. Yu. , Zolotarev A. V.
Published: June 2022

In this case study, a bilateral acute angle closure due to choroidal effusion was the initial manifestation of a previously undiagnosed hantavirus infection (hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome). The diagnostic and treatment algorithms are described. Advanced diagnostic technologies and a systematic approach to the analysis of atypical angle closure allowed not only to identify the cause of clinical presentations — choroidal effusion and anterior displacement of the lens–iris complex, but also to reveal the underlying systemic disease. The clinicians’ awareness of acute angle closure mechanisms is important in preserving the patient’s vision and timely diagnosing potentially life-threatening conditions.
Evaluation of morphometric parameters of the optic disc in patients with diverse clinical forms of openangle glaucoma
Authors: Arutyunyan L. L. , Morozova Yu. S. , Anisimova S. Yu. , Anisimov S. I.
Published: June 2022

Purpose. To compare the thickness of the prelaminar layer of nerve fibers and the depth of the lamina cribrosa in patients with diverse forms of open-angle glaucoma, measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Material and methods. 130 patients aged 71.4 ± 9.7 with stage II (advanced) glaucoma were divided into three groups depending on the form of glaucoma: group 1 of 39 patients with primary openangle glaucoma (POAG); group 2 of 26 patients with normal-tension glaucoma (NTG); group 3 of 22 patients with pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PEG). The control group consisted of 43 patients without ophthalmic pathology. All patients were scanned for the optic disc and the macular areas in the OCT Disk + Macula 3D regimen and in the Disk Raster regimen (Optopol Revo 60 OCT device (Optopol Technology, Poland). The depth of the lamina cribrosa (LC) and the thickness of the prelaminar layer of nerve fibers (tPLNF) were calculated.

Results. No significant differences were found between the LC depth in patients with different forms of glaucoma compared with the control group. LC depth averaged 426.9 ± 98.7 μm (p < 0.164) in patients with POAG, 416.9 ± 161.0 μm (p < 0.818) with NTG and 425.5 ± 88.04 μm, (p < 0.18) with PEG. The thinnest layer of prelaminar nerve fibers was found in patients with NTG (134,0 ± 91.4 μM), where the value was half as much as the control (p < 0.001). There were no differences in the tPNFL parameter in POAG (193.2 ± 114.6 μm) and PEG (190.7 ± 115.3 μm) but both were significantly lower as compared to the control group (p < 0.001, p < 0.002) respectively.

Conclusion. The study of LC parameters contributes to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of optic neuropathy in diverse forms of glaucoma. It opens up new opportunities in the differential diagnosis and prediction of the glaucoma course.
Combined surgery for cataract and open-angle glaucoma by a modified technique of partially fistulizing surgery
Authors: Bikbov M. M. , Orenburkina O. I. , Babushkin A. E. , Khusnitdinov I. I. , Israfilova C. Z.
Published: June 2022

Purpose. To evaluate the clinical and functional results of a combined intervention - one-stage cataract phacoemulsification and a newly developed version of partially fistulizing antiglaucoma surgery (PFS) of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) as compared with those of phacoemulsification in combination with penetrating and non-penetrating antiglaucoma intervention.

Material and methods. 61 patients (65 eyes) with a combination of incomplete complicated cataract and previously unoperated stages I–III POAG. were divided into 3 groups: group 1 (control, 17 patients, 17 eyes) with ultrasonic cataract phacoemulsification (PEC) and non-penetrating deep sclerectomy (NPDS); 2 group 2 (control, 25 patients, 28 eyes patients with PEC and trabeculectomy (TE); group 3 (main, 19 patients, 20 eyes) with PEC and the newly developed PFS.

Results. The best long-term results, with approximately equal hypotensive parameters were achieved with combined operations, which included PEC with TE (the absolute effect achieved in 65% of cases) and PFS (in 60%). However, the number of early postoperative complications after PFS turned out to be almost 2 times as small as after a simultaneous intervention with penetrating TE, and was wholly comparable with that after NPDS (15 and 11.8%). At the same time, the best visual results over the relevant period were observed in the main (0.78 ± 0.06) group and the control group 1 (0.64± 0.05).

Conclusion. Combined simultaneous intervention, including cataract phacoemulsification with the newly developed partially fistulizing antiglaucoma surgery, is an effective way to improve visual acuity, normalize intraocular pressure and stabilize glaucomatous optic neuropathy, as well as to reduce the drug load on the patient.
Ocular damages inflicted by criminal injuries
Authors: Gavrilova T. V. , Sobyanin N. A. , Patrushev A. V. , Chereshneva M. V.
Published: June 2022

Purpose: to analyze eyeball and appendage damages inflicted by criminal injuries of patients who sought assistance by the emergency ophthalmological care unit in Perm.

Materials and methods. The data of the patients’register and medical histories of the ophthalmological department of the State Clinical Hospital No. 2 named after Dr. F. H. Gral of Perm for 2018–2020 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results. Out of 30428 cases of domestic injuries, 847 (2.8%) were received under criminal circumstances. The victims, predominantly male (77.6%), and of working age (93.7%), were delivered by ambulance in 51.6% of cases. The majority of people sought assistance within 24 hours (90%). The injuries were inflicted by strangers (59.5%) or acquaintances of the patients. 1257 eyes were injured. The prevailing conditions were contusions (46.9%), while the most common traumatizing factor was first punch (79.6%). Combined damages to the eyeball and appendage were more common, claiming 72.6%. Visual acuity fell below 0.1 in 5.6% of cases, 0.1–0.6 in 57.6%, 0.7–1.0 in 36.8% of cases. 45.9% of all cases were represented by eye burns: mainly they were chemical burns (99.5%) of which the overwhelming type was burns caused by gas spray irritants (97.9%). In burn cases, visual acuity was below 0.1 in 1.4% of cases, 0.1–0.6 in 62.6%, 0.7–0.8 in 36% of cases. The wounds inflicted to the eye amounted to 7.2%, the damaging factors being handgun bullet, glass, metallic objects. Injuries of the eyelids and the eyeball were observed. Most of the injuries were mild (91.3%). 5.83% of the victims needed hospitalization in an ophthalmological in-patient facility.

Conclusion. The eye trauma, especially one of a criminal nature, is a social problem, and its analysis is highly relevant. The data obtained illustrates the need to increase the general culture of the population, to improve sanitary and educational work, and optimize medical care for those suffered.
A method for measuring intraocular pressure using artificial intelligence technology and fixed-force applanation tonometry
Authors: Dorofeev D. A. , Antonov A. A. , Vasilenko D. Yu. , Gorobets A. V. , Efimova K. A. , Kanafin E. V. , Karlova E. V. , Kirilik E. V. , Kozlova I. V. , Orlova E. R. , Tsyganov A. Z.
Published: June 2022

Purpose. To estimate the accuracy of IOP measurement using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and applanation tonometry with fixed strength. Material and methods. 290 patients (576 eyes) underwent applanation tonometry according to Maklakov with tonometer weights of 5, 10, and 15 g using a modified elastotonometry technique followed by an analysis of impression quality and diameter measurements by three independent ophthalmologist experts. The prints were then fed into a neural network to check the repeatability and reproducibility of the measurements. Results. The comparison of the diameters of the Maklakov tonometer prints determined by AI based on the neural network with the measurements data provided by three experts showed that neural network underestimates the measurement results by an average of 0.27 (-3.81; 4.35) mm Hg. At the same time, the intraclass correlation coefficient for all prints was 98.3%. The accuracy of diameter measurements of prints by neural network differs for tonometers of different weights, e.g. for a 5 g tonometer the difference was 0.06 (-3.38; 3.49) mm Hg, for 10 g and 15 g tonometers was 0.14 (-3.8; 3.51) and 0.95 (-3.84; 5.74) mm Hg, respectively. Conclusion. High accuracy and reproducibility of the measurements by the neural network, was shown to surpass the reproducibility of human-implemented measurements.
An intelligent decision-making system for early diagnosis of macular pathology
Authors: Kamenskikh T. G. , Dolinina O. N. , Kolbenev I. O. , Veselova E. V.
Published: June 2022

Purpose: to develop a software technology based on artificial intelligence methods aimed at analyzing large volumes of optical coherent tomography (OCT) data in order to identify early symptoms of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and the transition from dry AMD to neovascular AMD (nAMD).

Material and methods. Patients with dry AMD (1125 eyes), wet nAMD (1200 eyes) and subjects without ophthalmic pathology (1205 eyes) underwent a standard ophthalmological examination and macular OCT (Cirrus HD-OCT 4000, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Germany) according to the MacularCube scanning protocol with a standard ETDRS macular map. The thickness of the retina from the inner limiting membrane to the retinal pigment epithelium and the presence and location of fovea configuration changes were determined.

Results. Two ultra-precise artificial neural networks (ANN) were created: one intended to identify patients with early signs of dry AMD and the other to identify those with signs of nAMD. By the time when 1000 training images were processed, the image interpretation decision-making accuracy in the first ANN increased to reach 97.6%, in the second ANN, to 96.8%, which shows the high efficiency of this technology. The deep learning processes were run on an Amazon Web Service EC2 GPU. The trained ANN model was also tested on healthy eyes at each estimated probability value. The correspondence between the doctor's diagnosis and the decision taken by the ANN was assessed.

Conclusions. A software technology based on artificial intelligence methods has been developed, which answered the need to process a large amount of OCT data. The technology proved effective in identifying early symptoms of dry and wet forms of AMD and in early diagnosis of the transition of the dry form of AMD into neovascular form, the latter requiring immediate treatment.
A clinical and functional system for patients with accommodation disorders subjected to excimer laser correction of hypermetropia
Authors: Kuznetsova O. S. , Balalin S. V.
Published: June 2022

Purpose: to develop a clinical and functional rehabilitation system for patients with mild and moderate hyperopia and accommodation disorders before and after FemtoLASIK surgery and to assess its effectiveness.

Material and methods. 234 patients (234 eyes) with the above conditions, aged 25 to 30 (mean age 27.9 ± 1.2 years) were divided into 2 groups. The control group included 114 patients (114 eyes) who received no prevention measures or accommodation disorders treatment, while the main group (120 patients, 120 eyes) received clinical and functional rehabilitation before and after FemtoLASIK.

Results. The “false myopization” syndrome observed in the main group was 14.2% lower than in the control group. A week after FemtoLASIK, the normalization of accommodation parameters was achieved in 57.5% of the main group cases, and combined accommodation disorders occurred 2.37 less frequently than in the control group. Weak accommodation in patients of this group was 30% less than in the control group. Habitually excessive accommodation in the control group was 2.45 times more frequent than in the main group. According to the CISS test questionnaire, the mean values of indices for the main group patients reached the normal level one month after FemtoLASIK whilst the control group required 6 months.

Conclusion. The clinical and functional rehabilitation system in patients with mild and moderate hyperopia and accommodation disorders applied before and after FemtoLASIK helps achieve maximum clinical and functional results 1 month after the operation and yields the best results in accommodation disorders treatment.
Comparison of keratometry versions in patients with corneal astigmatism
Authors: Kulikov A. N. , Danilenko E. V. , Kozhevnikov E. Yu.
Published: June 2022

Purpose: to compare the corneal power at main meridians, the magnitude and the axis of corneal astigmatism and the reproducibility of measurements taken three times with different types of biometers.

Material and methods. 22 subjects (24 eyes) with regular corneal astigmatism 1.89–8.02 D were given three biometry tests using IOL Master 500, Lenstar LS 900, IOL Master 700, Pentacam and Galilei G6.

Results. The data were divided into groups depending on the principle of mathematical modeling of the corneal surface: group I involved the material processed by IOL Master 500, Lenstar LS 900, IOL Master 700; group II contained maps of the anterior corneal surface; and group III, those of the posterior surface. In group I, Lenstar showed the highest values of keratometry. In group II, the values of K1 , Kave in the 6 mm area were lower than in the pupil diameter area and than any values of K in the 4 mm area; the lowest values of K in this area were obtained on the Pentacam SimK. In group III, in the pupil diameter area (4.0–4.5 mm), all K values obtained with diverse equipment were different whilst in the 6 mm area the values differed only in the flat meridian. Astigmatism within groups I, III showed no difference while in group II the SimK data were different. The astigmatism axes obtained on IOLMaster 500 differed from the respective data provided by other devices. The devices of group I, 6 mm area, were the most stable.

Conclusions. The highest values of keratometry are obtained when only the anterior surface of the cornea is taken into account, the lowest values are characteristic of the posterior surface. The stability of the parameter registered grew with the increase of the measured zone diameters. The biometers of group 1 showed the highest values of astigmatism with the maximum repeatability of the measurements
Modern technologies of refractive lenticular extraction in the correction of myopia
Authors: Mushkova I. A. , Kostenev S. V. , Maychuk N. V. , Obraztsova M. R. , Nosirov P. O. , Malyshev I. S.
Published: June 2022

Purpose. To analyze the clinical and functional results of refractive lenticular extraction using ReLEx SMILE® and CLEAR® technologies in patients with moderate and high myopia.

Materials and methods. 160 patients (160 eyes) aged 18 to 36 years diagnosed with moderate or high myopia, who had binocular vision, average keratometry parameters (43.0–45.0 D), and no contraindications to laser vision correction were operated according to the technology of refractive extraction of lenticula followed up 1 and 3 months after surgery. The patients were divided into 2 groups: (1) SMILE, which included 80 eyes of patients operated with the femtosecond laser VisuMax 500; and (2) CLEAR, including 80 eyes of patients operated using the femtosecond laser FEMTO LDV Z8. Both types of surgery were performed according to standard protocols.

Results. No intraoperative complications were recorded. The analysis of clinical and functional parameters in the correction of myopia using the technology of refractive lenticular extraction performed with VisuMax and LDV Z8 femtosecond lasers demonstrated high and comparable efficiency, safety, predictability and stability.

Conclusion. Both technologies of refractive lenticular extraction can be recommended for wide clinical use in the correction of moderate and high myopia.
Impact of stress on the functioning of the immune system, swine health, and productivity
Authors: SIEMIŃSKA IZABELA , PEJSAK ZYGMUNT
Published: June 2022

Stress can affect many aspects of the body, including the immune response, and stress factors are an inherent element in the life of animals in intensive production, such as pigs. Major pathways involved in these interactions are associated with the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) axis and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. This review is focused on the effects of various stress factors described so far on the swine immune system. The literature data presented here indicate that the effect of stress factors depends not only on the duration and severity of stress, but also on the animal’s temper. Stress, through its influence on the immune system, strongly influences the digestive tract of pigs such as response to pathogens, microbiome disturbance and influence on appetite. Thus, long-term stress has negative effects on the animal’s development, including a high rate of morbidity and mortality, an increase in the feed conversion rate (FCR), and, important in intensive production, weight differentiation of the same age groups of pigs. Therefore, the role of stress and the immune system itself in the production of pigs should not be underestimated. Any decrease in animal stress is crucial.
Zoonotic diseases of potential concern among alpacas MONIKA
Authors: KRAJEWSKA-WĘDZINA MONIKA , ORŁOWSKA BLANKA , PYZIEL-SERAFIN ANNA M. , DIDKOWSKA ANNA , ANUSZ KRZYSZTOF , WEINER MARCIN
Published: June 2022

The aim of the present article is to describe the specific nature of the zoonoses associated with alpacas. Of the potential zoonoses, it is known that tuberculosis (TB), cryptosporidiosis and dermal mite have been transmitted to humans. In addition, associations have been noted between the South American Camelids (SAC) and Escherichia coli human verocytotoxigenic infections (VTECs). The zoonotic potential of TB in camelids primarily poses a threat to veterinarians and owners, it can also be transmitted to the rest of society, as although only a limited number of camelids enter the food chain, alpacas are a very popular in public shows, exhibitions and festivals. Such close contact offers many opportunities to infect humans or other farm animals. The authors presented the potential routes of infection and discussed the clinical symptoms of individual zoonoses in both alpacas and humans.
Determination of selected biochemical parameters of the haemolymph of free-living Cepaea nemoralis (L.) snails. Preliminary study
Authors: ZIĘTEK JERZY , ZIOMEK MONIKA , MAĆKOWIAK-DRYKA MONIKA , WILCZYŃSKA ANNA , SAJDAK SYLWIA , ADASZEK ŁUKASZ
Published: June 2022

The study objective was to determine reference values of selected biochemical parameters of the haemolymph of Cepaea nemoralis snails (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Helicidae). The study determined the activity of aminotransferases (AST and ALT), which was 11.22 ± 10.92 [u/l] and 6.72 ± 3.18 [u/l], respectively, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) at a level of 3.92 ± 2.08 [u/l]. The level of amylase (AMY) in the haemolymph was 2.32 ± 0.74 [u/l], while lipase (LIP) was 0.74 ± 0.79 [u/l]. The concentration of urea (UREA) was established at 2.28 ± 0.48 [mg/dl], creatinine (CREA) at 2.28 ± 0.09 [mg/dl], uric acid (UA) at 0.22 ± 0.16 [mg/dl], calcium (Ca) at 21.24 ± 2.4 [mg/dl], and total protein (TP) at 1.38 ± 0.34 [g/l]. The specific gravity of the haemolymph was 1.0 ± 0.002. The haemolymph was obtained from 211 individuals in the active phase collected from their natural habitat. The biochemical parameters of the haemolymph were determined with a BS 180 apparatus (Mindray), and the specific gravity with a refractometer. The article also desrcibes an intravital technique of collecting haemolymph from C. nemoralis. The results obtained may constitute an aid and a guideline for scientists dealing with the physiology of land molluscs.
Immunomodulation as a tool to reduce antibiotic therapy in intensive poultry production
Authors: TYKAŁOWSKI BARTŁOMIEJ , KONCICKI ANDRZEJ
Published: June 2022

The aim of the present review is to demonstrate the possibility of limiting antibiotic therapy in intensive poultry production through the use of various immunomodulators. In an era of increasing resistance of microorganisms to antimicrobial agents, it is particularly important to improve the efficiency of the immune system, which is indispensable for birds to survive in an environment where this system is constantly exposed to a number of stimuli that directly or indirectly affect its functioning. This is all the more important as the health of birds kept under intensive systems depends mainly on the functional status of their immune system, which determines the level of postvaccination immunity and the effectiveness of treatment. That is because its proper function is needed for the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms, stimulation of repair processes in damaged tissues and protection against reinfection. This paper focuses on the possibilities of modulating immune mechanisms and correcting the reactivity of the immunological system in poultry by using natural or synthetic immunomodulators. The results presented here suggest that methisoprinol and β-glucans are effective in modulating immune processes in turkeys and may find practical application in mass rearing of these birds: β-glucans mainly in prophylactic programmes, whereas methisoprinol both in prevention and treatment of diseases of viral etiology occurring with immunosuppression. It has also been shown that phytoncides contained in well-composed complementary feeds show immunomodulatory effects in broiler chickens and turkeys and are effective in the prevention and treatment of black head disease in turkeys. Considering the key role of the immune system in fighting pathogens, it should be concluded that synthetic and natural immunomodulators, including phytoncides used in the prevention and treatment of poultry diseases, can effectively reduce and, in some cases, replace or support antibiotic therapy.
Use of AHP based Weighted Analysis for Impact Assessment of Coastal Tourism in Ratnagiri District, Maharashtra (India): Respondents’ Point of View
Authors: Navale Sanjay , Bhagat Vijay
Published: June 2022

The MCDM-AHP technique was used for impact assessment of tourism on socioeconomic development in the coastal area with respondents’ point of view. The responses from native people were recorded using questionnaires through interviews about selected nine criteria including accessibility and connectivity, amenities, health care facilities, business, employability, standard of living, cultural values, agriculture and fisheries, and immovable properties. The literature review, fieldwork and experts’ opinions are fundamental keys to select the criteria and determination of ranks. About 35.55% respondents reported higher impact of tourism, 29.14% respondents informed moderate impact, 25.69% respondents reported less impact and 9.62% respondents reported very less impact of tourism activities on development in the region. The development of reported criteria varies according the beach area and relative location of the beaches on the shoreline. The beaches located far south and away from district headquarter show relatively less development. The focus of investment should be concentrated on development of the accessibility and connectivity, required amenities, health care facilities, small-scale business, employability, cultural values, agriculture and fisheries to improve the tourism activities for improving standard of living of native people in the region. The methodology, techniques and results achieved in this study can be useful for planning and monitoring the tourism activities for sustainable and uniform development in the similar areas.
Otizm Spektrum Bozukluğu Olan Çocukların Sesbilgisel Özelliklerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: ASLAN Sevda , ACARLAR Funda
Published: June 2022

Bu çalışmanın temel amacı, farklı dil düzeylerine sahip Otizm Spektrum Bozukluğu (OSB) olan çocuklarda sözel dil performansları ile sesbilgisel özelliklerin ilişkisinin incelenmesidir. Yaşları 2;0 - 7;11 arasındaki OSB olan 36 çocuğun dil düzeylerini belirlemek için Türkçe Erken Dil Gelişim Testi (TEDİL), sesbilgisel özelliklerini belirlemek için Ankara Artikülasyon Testi (AAT) uygulanmıştır. TEDİL sonucunda sözel dil performansı çok zayıf 15, zayıf 5, ortalama altı 6, ortalama 9, ortalama üstü 1 çocuk saptanmıştır. AAT sonucunda sesbilgisel becerilerde çocukların %83.33’inin yaş düzeylerinin altında, %5.56’nin yaş düzeyinde veya yaş düzeyine yakın, %11.11’ünün yaş düzeyinin üstünde performans gösterdikleri saptanmıştır. Çocukların sözel dil performansları ve sesbilgisel düzeyleri arasında ilişki olduğu ve sözel dil performansı arttıkça hata sayılarının azaldığı bulunmuştur. Hedef sesin atılması, yerine başka ses konması şeklindeki hataların ve hata yapılan ses birimlerin sıklıkları incelenmiştir. Çalışmanın bulguları genel dil düzeyi daha iyi olan OSB olan çocukların sesbilgisel performanslarının da daha iyi olduğunu göstermektedir.
Ag+-selective poly(vinyl chloride) Membrane Electrode Based on [N,N- ethylenebis-(3-methoxy salicylaldimine)]
Authors: Topcu C. , Coldur F. , Andac M. , Isildak I. , Senyuz N. , Bati H.
Published: June 2022

A solid state silver selective poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) membrane electrode was developed by using recently synthesized [N, N-ethylenebis-(3-methoxy salicylaldimine)] as an active component of the membrane. The best sensitivity and selectivity for Ag+ ions were obtained for the electrode membrane containing ionophore-NPOE-PVC and KTpClTB in composition of 4:62:33:1 (w/w). The proposed electrode had a Nernstian response (56.0 mV/decade) to Ag+ within the concentration range 1.0 ×10-6 to 1.0×x10-1 mol L-1and with a detection limit of 8.3×10-7 mol L-1. The electrode worked well between pH 3.0 and 8.0 and had a fast response time of 15 s. The electrode was used along 3 months without any significant change in its sensitivity. Potentiometric performance of the electrode in partially non-aqueous medium (up to 10 % (v/v) alcohol) was found satisfactory. The electrode was successfully used in the potentiometric titration of silver ions with standard solution of potassium iodide, and in the direct determination of silver ion in spiked waste water and photographic film developing solutions.
Application of Immunological Techniques (from Vaccination to Final Measurements) in Determination of Pharmaceutical Residues in Environmental Samples
Authors: Kudlak Blazej , Coldur Jacek Namiesnik
Published: June 2022

Numerous biologically active compounds are intuitively produced by humans and are present in the environment. Their fate and the occurrence of their metabolites still remain a great challenge for environmental analysts and risk assessors.

There are a lot of different analytical approaches leading to the determination of residues of pharmaceuticals used both by humans and for veterinary purposes. However, the majority of known analytical approaches are based on the application of indirect methods where proper sample preparation (isolation/preconcentration of analytes prior to final determination of analytes) plays a vital role.

The attention of analysts is oriented towards the direct methods when a special pretreatment of handled samples and during analysis is not needed. These procedures are fulfilling the requirement of sustainable development and can be classified as “green” analytical procedures. Immunoanalytics can be treated as a typical example of this approach.

This paper presents a review of one of the most versatile and direct method of analysis, immunoassaying, focused on the application and determination of pharmaceuticals and their residues' concentration/presence in different environmental compartments.
Analytical Methods for the Determination of Anti-diuretic Peptides in Biological Samples: Challenges and Perspectives
Authors: Chen Yun , Liu Yuan
Published: June 2022

Anti-diuretic peptides are widely used for the control of body water balance. With the growing concerns on their pharmacological characteristics and clinical safety, there is an increasing request of sensitive, selective and robust analytical assays for the determination of anti-diuretics in biological samples. This article provides a perspective review of various methodologies developed and validated in the past, including immunoassay (IA), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and capillary electrophoresis (CE), with detections of radio, UV, fluorescence and mass spectrometry. Systematic description of each technique was given and emphasis was laid on the problems encountered with each assay. Despite the infrequent application of mass spectrometry in anti-diuretics quantitative analysis, it was highlighted here for its remarkable sensitivity and selectivity. The ultimate aim of this review is to demonstrate the analytical options of peptide determination and promote the quantification of peptide-like drugs and biomarkers in respect to fast-expanding peptide market and therapeutics.
Escarificación de endocarpos del jobo (Spondias mombin, Anacardiaceae) debido al paso por el tracto digestivo de monos aulladores de manto (Alouatta palliata mexicana): un vistazo microscópico
Authors: Torres-Anaya Daniela Alicia , Dáttilo Wesley , Rosas Saito Greta Hanako , Serio-Silva Juan Carlos
Published: June 2022

Antecedentes y Objetivos: Diversos estudios han destacado el importante papel de los monos aulladores (Alouatta palliata mexicana) en la dispersión de semillas y, con ello, en la regeneración de las poblaciones de plantas con frutos carnosos de los bosques tropicales. Sin embargo, poca es la evidencia empírica sobre cuáles podrían ser los mecanismos que les permitiría a los monos aulladores favorecer la germinación de las semillas de muchas especies de plantas, incluyendo la escarificación de su cubierta externa. En este trabajo se evaluó si los endocarpos de Spondias mombin (Anacardiaceae), una especie importante en la dieta de los monos aulladores, podrían ser escarificados al pasar por el tracto digestivo de estos primates.
Métodos: Se colectaron endocarpos de las heces de monos aulladores, así como frutos maduros del suelo, en la región de Los Tuxtlas, municipio Catemaco, Veracruz, México. Mediante cortes transversales de los endocarpos y su análisis en el microscopio electrónico de barrido, se tomaron medidas del grosor de la cubierta externa y probaron las diferencias entre ambos tipos de muestras (i.e., endocarpos de frutos y endocarpos que pasaron por el tracto digestivo).
Resultados clave: Se observó que el grosor de la cubierta de los endocarpos en frutos fue mayor (=47.05±9.69 µm) que el de endocarpos en heces (=1.51±3.60 µm) (W=0.48, p<0.001).
Conclusiones: Los resultados evidencian que la ingesta de endocarpos de S. mombin por A. p. mexicana puede tener un efecto de escarificación de los tejidos que conforman su cubierta externa. Esto apoya la versión sobre la función de los frugívoros, como los monos aulladores, reduciendo la cubierta externa de las semillas y aumentando así su capacidad para germinar; siendo, por lo tanto, organismos clave en la dinámica de regeneración de bosques tropicales.
Modeling COVID-19 mortality data in four countries using odd generalized exponential Kumaraswamy-Inverse exponential distribution
Authors:   Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Baharith Lamya A.
Published: June 2022

This study aims to introduce an optimum model to assess the COVID-19 death rate in Saudi Arabia, Canada, Italy, and Mexico. A novel five-parameter lifetime distribution termed the Odd generalized exponential Kumaraswamy-inverse exponential distribution is presented by combining the Kumaraswamy-inverse exponential distribution with the odd generalized exponential generator. The theoretical features of the new distribution, as well as its reliability functions, moments, and order statistics are investigated. The odd generalized exponential Kumaraswamy-inverse exponential distribution is of special importance since its density has a variety of symmetric and asymmetric forms. Furthermore, the graphs of the hazard rate function exhibit various asymmetrical shapes such as decreasing, increasing, and upside-down bathtub shapes, and inverted J-shapes making The Odd generalized exponential Kumaraswamy-inverse exponential distribution suitable for modeling hazards behaviors more likely to be observed in practical settings like human mortality, and biological applications. The proposed distribution parameters are estimated using the maximum likelihood approach and its effectiveness is demonstrated through both numerical study and applications to four COVID-19 mortality rate data sets. The Odd generalized exponential Kumaraswamy-inverse exponential distribution provides the best fit to COVID-19 data compared to other extended forms of the Kumaraswamy and inverse exponential distributions which may attract wider applications in different fields.
India-Bhutan Relations: A Small State’s Quest for Freedom
Authors: Mahmudur Mahmudur
Published: June 2022

Bhutan is located on the eastern ridges of the Himalayas between the Assam-Bengal Plain of India to the south and the Plateau of Tibet of southwestern China to the north. In British India the colonial administration established a classical hegemonic relationship with the remote kingdom. In the Treaty of Punakha (1910) the sovereignty of the Bhutanese Royal government was recognized in exchange for submitting control of foreign relations to the British. In independent India, the Himalayan Kingdoms were sandwiched between India and China, facing an uncertain future about their political sovereignty. India concluded a new Treaty with Bhutan (the India-Bhutan Treaty of Peace and Friendship) in 1949, which was designed to remain in force “in perpetuity,” consolidating the essence of the British hegemonic policy of controlling smaller neighbors, with India being the new imperial power. Bhutan became a member state of the UN in 1971 after India finally agreed to sponsor its application, but the small state has limited authority to conduct foreign relations without prior consent from India, and it does not even enjoy formal diplomatic relationship with any of the five permanent members in the United Nations. Bhutan’s quest to wield control over its own affairs free of the influence of India remains unfulfilled.
Water Quality Analysis (IQA) of Lake Uhe Lajeado in Porto Nacional- TO
Authors: Borges Clóvis Thomaz Soares , Balduíno Dr. Ângelo Ricardo , Targa Dr. Marcelo dos Santos
Published: June 2022

Water is a source of life and an essential element of nature for human survival. Currently, this water resource has gone through a constant crisis over the centuries, especially when it comes to crises caused by the pollution aspect that affects this water resource and affects its efficiency in terms of consumption. The use of water is a demand that is present in several areas, in agriculture it has a resource role with consultative use. The present study aimed to obtain qualitative information about the quality of the water resource available in the lake located in the Araguaia-Tocantins Hydrographic Basin. Monitoring has the purpose of obtaining biological, chemical, physical, ecological information and classification into classes specified in the NSF IQA. In the case study, the water quality monitoring procedure was carried out, through the water quality standards - IQA NSF, carried out with the samples collected at a point of the Lake UHE Lajeado in the municipality of Porto Nacional - TO. These analyzes are important because the site, in the future, will serve as a new point of water collection for public supply. The Water Quality Index was evaluated by permissible limits established by CONAMA resolution nº 357/2005 and NSF - National Sanitation Foundation, which was evaluated in 9 parameters that made it possible to calculate the IQA - Water Quality Index.
Implications of the rural territorial tax (RTT) on Brazilian functionalized property in light of the 1988 Constitution
Authors: Neto Orígenes Rosendo da Silva , Novais Fabrício Muraro
Published: June 2022

This article aims to explore the basic characteristics of the Rural Territorial Tax - RTT - in Brazil, with a focus on achieving the social function of property. For this, it aims to outline the main aspects of the evolution of property rights around the globe, as well as in Brazil, from the occupation of lands by the Portuguese Crown to modern times. The research method addressed is bibliographic, documentary, qualitative and primarily deductive. Meanwhile, it narrates the property with inspiration in the ideals of liberalism and what are the consequences arising from the development in the tax area. Therefore, it explores the main nuances of the State's power to tax, especially with regard to the RTT - when measuring the level of effectiveness of said tax, whether in its fiscal or extrafiscality aspect, within the fundamental bias of the Federal Constitution of 1988.
Management of occupational safety and health (OSH) in university chemical laboratories: A case study at a University Federal Public service in the interior of Paraná - Brazil
Authors: Corso Marla , Cardoso Flávia Aparecida Reitz , Andrade Polyana Ribeiro de , Rezende Luciana Cristina Soto Herek , Sastre Rodolfo Marques
Published: June 2022

The risks associated with academic research are often much lower than those in large-scale process industry operations. While inventories of hazardous materials are lower in the university environment and the number of hazards may be lower, factors such as chemicals used in laboratories and the proximity of researchers to their equipment can equate to a high individual risk for laboratory users. The number of reported laboratory accidents resulting in fatalities, serious injuries, and financial loss demonstrates a need for better risk management practices in academic teaching and experimental research laboratories. Academic and research labs at universities contain various risks, and the associated risks can be significant if not appropriately managed. The misperception that university labs are low risk is partly due to a lack of awareness of the hazards. This paper discusses an approach to applying health and safety practices to chemistry laboratories at a federal university in the interior of Paraná and discusses selected challenges and suggested solutions.