bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the evaluative activities of teachers in the conditions of updated education
Authors: Tashbolatovna Massimova Khurshidam , Duisenbaevna Utepbergenova Zіnakul , Kaldyhanovna Kerimbayeva Rysty , Koyshibaevna Aizhanova Gulnara , Ulmeken Zhamirova , Gulzat Sembayeva
Published: May 2022

The aim of this research is to reveal the opinions of teachers about the development of assessment activities in updated educational conditions. The study was conducted with the phenomenology pattern, one of the qualitative research designs. The study data were collected with semi-structured interview forms applied to primary, secondary and high school teachers. The participants of the study consisted of 20 primary school teachers, 20 secondary school teachers and 20 high school teachers who were working in various schools in Kazakhstan in the 2021–2022 academic year and agreed to participate voluntarily in the research. As a result of the research, among the answers given to the question about the advantages of online education – financial advantages, time advantages and transportation advantages – the majority of the participants answered the question as financial advantages. Among the answers given to the question about the disadvantages of online education – adaptation problems, problems in social relationships and connection problems – the majority of the participants answered the question as connection problems. Among the answers given to the question about the advantages of evaluation activities in online education – speed–time advantages, storage advantages and alternative methods’ advantages – the majority of the participants answered the question speed–time advantages. Among the answers given to the question about the disadvantages of assessment activities in online education – connection problems, cheating and distractions – most of the participants answered cheating. Among the answers given to the question regarding the development of assessment activities in online education – improving technology, establishing a counselling unit and preventing copying – majority of the participants answered the question as improving technology.

Keywords: online education training, assessment, development of assessment
Post-Soviet Space: between Europe and Asia
Authors:   Institute of Socio-Political Research of FCTAS RAS, Moscow, Russian Federation, Guseletov Boris P.
Published: May 2022

Представленная коллективная монография является результатом междисциплинарного исследования современных политических и социальноэкономических процессов на постсоветском пространстве. В работе даны оценки ведущих российских и зарубежных ученых, касающиеся основных тенденций дальнейшего развития этого пространства, включая влияние на него ключевых внешних (Евросоюза, Китая, США и др.) и внутренних акторов (Россия), а также истории его существования. Основная цель исследования — проанализировать актуальное состояние региона в условиях нелинейного развития процессов глобализации и регионализации. Научный проект реализован по инициативе Отдела политологии ИСПИ ФНИСЦ РАН и Московского бюро Фонда Розы Люксембург. Авторский коллектив выражает благодарность К. Кайзер и В. Фоменко за участие в подготовке монографии.
Novel Recurrence Relations for Volumes and Surfaces of N-Balls, Regular N-Simplices, and N-Orthoplices in Integer Dimensions
Authors: Łukaszyk Szymon
Published: May 2022

New recurrence relations for n-balls, regular n-simplices, and n-orthoplices in integer dimensions are submitted. They remove indefiniteness present in known formulas. In negative, integer dimensions volumes of n-balls are zero if n is even, positive if n = -4k - 1, and negative if n = -4k - 3, for natural k. Volumes and surfaces of n-cubes inscribed in n-balls in negative dimensions are complex, wherein for negative, integer dimensions they are associated with integral powers of the imaginary unit. The relations are continuous for n Î ℝ and show that the constant of π is absent for 0 ≤ n < 2. For n < -1 self-dual n-simplices are undefined in negative, integer dimensions and their volumes and surfaces are imaginary in negative, fractional ones, and divergent with decreasing n. In negative, integer dimensions n-orthoplices reduce to the empty set, and their real volumes and imaginary surfaces are divergent in negative, fractional ones with decreasing n. Out of three regular, convex polytopes present in all non-negative dimensions, only n-orthoplices, n-cubes (and n-balls) are defined in negative, integer dimensions.
Clpp-Deletion Causes Azoospermia, with Meiosis-I Delay and Insufficient Biosynthesis of Spermatid Factors, Due to Mitochondrial Dysfunction with Accumulation of Perrault Proteins ERAL1, PEO1, and HARS2
Authors: Gispert Suzana , Key Jana , Kohli Aneesha , Torres-Odio Sylvia , Koepf Gabriele , Amr Shady , Reichlmeir Marina , N. Harter Patrick , Phillip West A. , Münch Christian , Auburger Georg
Published: May 2022

Human Perrault syndrome (PRLTS) is defined by autosomal recessive inheritance with primary ovarian insufficiency and early hearing loss. Most PRLTS disease proteins modulate mitochondrial transcription or translation. Among the genetic causes are ClpP mutations, which trigger also complete azoospermia, whose cellular and molecular underpinnings are unknown. Here, the ClpP-null mouse model was studied by global transcriptomics, proteomics, RT-qPCR, immunoblots, tissue fractionation, testis histology, and was crossed with STING/IFNAR mutants. Spermatogenesis showed accumulated early spermatocytes, versus deficits of desynapsis and kinetochore factors; excess Dazl/Stra8 and acetylSMC3, versus deficient SHCBP1L, were molecular correlates. Spermiogenesis showed few round spermatids, tsHMG/TFAM in elongated spermatids was absent; transcripts for tail/acrosome factors were downregulated from start. Nuclear anomalies included a failed Rec8 induction, early BRDT deficiency, histone H3 cleavage, and cGAMP increase, among antiviral responses typical of ClpP-mutants. However, deletion of downstream innate immune signals STING/IFNAR failed to reestablish fertility. As mitochondrial triggers, we observed accumulation of ClpX, with PTCD1, POLDIP2, GRSF1, ALKBH7, DNAJA3, AURKAIP1, VWA8, and Perrault proteins ERAL1, PEO1, HARS2, partially showing nuclear redistribution. ClpP-depletion is known to cause extra-mitochondrial release of mispacked mtDNA/mtRNA/protein complexes. Now we define nuclear inflammatory responses and meiotic arrest as consequences, similar to observations in mito-mice and mutator-mice.
An Improved Procedure for Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation of Citrus
Authors: Li Yanjun , Tang Dan , Liu Zongrang , Chen Jianjun , Cheng Baoping , Li Yi
Published: May 2022

Although several protocols for genetic transformation of citrus have been published, it is highly desirable to further improve its efficiency. Here we report treatments of Agrobacterium cells and citrus explants prior to and during co-cultivation process to enhance transformation efficiency using a commercially used rootstock 'Carrizo' Citrange as a model plant. We pre-cultured Agrobacterium cells in a 1/10 MS, 0.5 g/L 2-(N-morpholino) ethanesulfonic acid (MES) and 100 µM acetosyringone liquid medium for 6 hours at 25 ℃ before used to infect citrus explants. We incubated epicotyl segments in an MS liquid medium containing 13.2 µM 6-BA, 4.5 µM 2,4-D, 0.5 µM NAA for 3 hours at 25℃ prior to Agrobacterium infection. In the co-cultivation medium, we added 30 µM paclobutrazol and 10 µM lipoic acid. Each of these three treatments significantly increased the efficiencies of transformation. When the three treatments were combined, we observed that the transformation efficiency was enhanced from 11.5% to 52.3%. The improvement of genetic transformation efficiency mediated by these three simple treatments may facilitate more efficient applications of transgenic and gene editing technologies for functional characterization of citrus genes and for genetic improvement of cultivated citrus varieties.
Describing the Function, Disability, and Health of Adults With Disabilities and Older Adults During the Early Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic Restrictions
Authors: Derakhshan Pegah , Miller William C. , Borisoff Jaimie , Esfandiari Elham , Forwell Susan , Jarus Tal , Mohammadi Somayyeh , Rash Isabelle , Sakakibara Brodie , Schmidt Julia , Tao Gordon , Tregobov Noah , Mortenson W. Ben
Published: May 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 restrictions impacted Canadians' daily living, especially those at higher risk of compromised health conditions. This study aimed to describe the physical, psychological, and social well-being of adults with disabilities, and older adults from May to June 2020. An online survey was used to administer standardized measures of mobility, anxiety and depression, boredom, resilience, technology readiness, social support, social networks, and participation. Seventy-two participants were recruited, with a mean age (SD) of 61.2 (13.8). 69.4% of participants had a disability, and 51.4% were older adults. 27.8% and 16.7% of participants exceeded the anxiety and depression cut-off scores, respectively. Boredom and restriction in participation were experienced by 76.4% and 80.1% of participants, respectively. Participants' mean (SD) resilience and life space scores were 72.4 (14.0) and 51.9 (24.0), respectively. Individuals with disabilities have comparatively higher mean anxiety (5.5 to 3.3), depression (4.8 to 2.9), and boredom (92.2 to 72.3) scores than those without. Individuals with a disability had lower resilience (69.9 to 78.0) and felt more life space restrictions (45.4 to 67.6). Our findings revealed issues with anxiety, boredom, participation, and life space activity. This information may provide supporting evidence when creating policies to mitigate existent health and social inequities.
Immediate Effects of Stabilization Exercises on Trunk Muscle Activity During Jump Header Shooting
Authors: Sekine Chie , Saisu Kazusa , Hirabayashi Ryo , Yokota Hirotake , Hayashi Haruna , Takabayashi Tomoya , Edama Mutsuaki
Published: May 2022

Background: This study aimed to clarify trunk muscle activity during jump header shooting and examine the immediate effects of trunk stabilization exercises on trunk muscle activity. Methods: Nineteen male college students who had played soccer in junior high and high school clubs and youth sports teams for over 5 years were assigned to either the trunk stabilization exercise group (n = 10) or the control group (n = 9). Muscle activity during jump header shooting was measured before and after intervention. The intervention in the trunk stabilization exercise group was trunk muscle training, whereas that in the control group was sitting. The phases of jump header shooting and the effects of the interventions were compared. Results: The internal oblique activity during the push-off phase and early floating phase was significantly greater than that during the late floating phase. The muscle activity of the internal oblique increased from the push-off phase, prior to the increase in muscle activity of the rectus abdominis and external oblique, whereas the muscle activity of all abdominal muscles increased immediately after take-off. The trunk stabilization exercise intervention decreased the muscle activity of the erector spinae during jump header shooting. Conclusions: These results provide useful coaching-related insights for jump header shooting.
RAS, BRAF and EGFR Related Genetic Mutations as Predictive Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ionescu Adriana , Bilteanu Liviu , Geicu Ovidiu Ionut , Iordache Florin , Stanca Loredana , Pisoschi Aurelia Magdalena , Miron Adrian , Serban Andreea Iren , Calu Valentin
Published: May 2022

Background: Biomarker profiles should represent a coherent description of the colorectal cancer (CRC) stage and its evolution. Methods: Using droplet digital PCR, we detected the allelic frequencies (AF) of KRAS, NRAS, BRAF and EGFR mutations from 60 tumors. We employed a pair-wise association approach to estimate the risk involving AF mutations as outcome variables for clinical data and as predicting variables for tumor-staging. We evaluated correlations between mutations AFs and also between the mutations and histopathology features (tumor staging, inflammation, differentiation and invasiveness). Results: KRAS G12/G13 mutations were present in all patients. KRAS Q61 was significantly associated with poor differentiation, high desmoplastic reaction, invasiveness (ypT4) and metastasis (ypM1). NRAS and BRAF were associated with the right-side localization of tumors. Diabetic patients had a higher risk to exhibit NRAS G12/G13 mutations. BRAF’s presence limited the invasiveness in the submucosa, co-existing with NRAS G12/G13 mutations. Conclusions: The associations we found and the mutational AF we reported may help to understand disease processes and may be considered as potential CCR biomarker candidates. In addition, we propose representative mutation panels associated with specific clinical and histopathological features of CRC, as a unique opportunity to refine the degree of personalization of CRC treatment.
The Typology and Topography of Child Abuse and Neglect: The Experience of a Tertiary Children’s Centre
Authors: Debelle Geoff , Efstathiou Nikolaos , Khan Rafiyah , Williamson Annette , Summan Manjit , Taylor Julie
Published: May 2022

Good child protection systems and processes require reliable and accurate data. A retrospective study of the case records of 452 children referred to a major UK children’s tertiary centre for suspected child maltreatment was undertaken to determine whether routinely collected data on a child’s journey through the child protection system, together with a study of related multidimensional factors, can be used to develop an enhanced dataset to protect children in the UK and in other countries. Child maltreatment was substantiated in 65% of referred cases, with the vast majority of referrals coming from children living in the most deprived neighbourhoods in the country. Domestic violence and abuse, and the child’s previous involvement with statutory bodies was associated with case substantiation. Physical abuse predominated, with soft tissue injuries, including dog bites, and burns. Burns were related almost exclusively to supervisory neglect. There were also cases of medical neglect. Emotional abuse was associated with exposure to domestic violence and abuse, and to self-harm. The strengths and weaknesses for single centre data systems were explored, concluding with a recommendation to establish an agreed national and international minimum data set to protect children from maltreatment.
The Emerging Role and Trends of UAE Education Sector in Circular Economy - A Change Management Prospective
Authors: Iyer Shankar Subramanian
Published: May 2022

The Circular Economy is matter of recent discussions and quite popular, however the meaning has not been understood by most Business stakeholders. This Case study proposes to illustrate the Circular Economy importance and its status now. The contribution that UAE education sector can make to the Circular Economy is immense and is the focus of this study. Circular Economy awareness and its inner meaning can be only spread by the education sector and the author emphasizes the role of the education can play in implementing the Circular Economy. The study shows the way for the future Managers and Business stakeholders to participate in this crucial endeavor of Businesses to follow the Circular Economy. The ADKAR change management can be adopted to inspire the CE initiatives of the UAE Education sector.
High Diffusion Permeability of Anion Exchange Membranes for Ammonium Chloride: Experiment and Modeling
Authors: Skolotneva Ekaterina , Tsygurina Ksenia , Mareev Semyon , Melnikova Ekaterina , Pismenskaya Natalia , Nikonenko Victor
Published: May 2022

It is known that ammonium has a higher permeability through anion-exchange and bipolar membranes compared to K+ cation that has the same mobility in water. However, the mechanism of this high permeability is not clear enough. We develop a mathematical model based of the Nernst-Planck and Poisson equations for diffusion of ammonium chloride through an anion-exchange membrane; proton exchange reactions between ammonium, water and ammonia are taken into account. It is assumed that ammonium, chloride and OH− ions can only pass through membrane hydrophilic pores, while ammonia can also dissolve in membrane matrix fragments not containing water and diffuse through these fragments. It is found that due to the Donnan exclusion of H+ ions as coions, the pH in the membrane internal solution increases when approaching the membrane side facing distilled water. Consequently, there is a change in the principal nitrogen-atom carrier in the membrane: in the part close to the side facing the feed NH4Cl solution (pH<8.8), it is the NH4+ cation, and in the part close to distilled water, NH3 molecules. The concentration of NH4+ reaches almost zero at a point close to the middle of the membrane cross-section, which approximately halves the effective thickness of the diffusion layer for the transport of this ion. When NH3 takes over the nitrogen transport, it only needs to pass through the other half of the membrane. Leaving the membrane, it captures an H+ ion from water, and the released OH− goes towards the membrane side facing the feed solution to meet the NH4+ ions. The comparison of the simulation with experiment shows a satisfactory agreement.
Informal Institutional Barriers to Access and Utilisation of Newcastle Disease Vaccines among Women Smallholder Chicken Farmers in Makueni, Kenya
Authors: Simiyu Abel , Chemuliti Judith , Nyamongo Isaac , Bukachi Salome
Published: May 2022

Institutional barriers can hinder effective access and utilisation of Newcastle disease vaccines among smallholder chicken farmers. Many studies have focused on formal institutional barriers with minimal focus on informal institutions - unwritten rules and regulations that govern access and utilisation of Newcastle vaccines. However, informal institutions are more profound and encultured in individuals’ daily activities. This study sought to investigate informal institutional barriers to access and utilisation of Newcastle disease vaccines among women smallholder chicken farmers in Makueni, Kenya. The cross-sectional qualitative study employed in-depth interviews, key informant interviews and focus group discussions as data collection methods. Study informants were conveniently and purposively sampled. Informal institutional barriers to access and utilisation included: fear of Newcastle disease vaccine as a new technology, use of herbal remedies, mistrust of community vaccinators, gender division of labour, ownership of household resources and beliefs that indigenous chickens do not need vaccines. The study concludes that women chicken farmers are constrained by unwritten rules, norms, regulations and gender roles that hinder their access to and utilisation of the Newcastle disease vaccines. The need to examine informal institutions to identify and eradicate barriers to access and utilisation of Newcastle disease vaccines by farmers is recommended.
Postacute Laryngeal Injuries and Dysfunctions in COVID-19 Patients: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lechien Jerome R , Hans Stephane
Published: May 2022

Objective: To investigate postacute laryngeal injuries and dysfunctions (PLID) in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Methods: Three independent investigators performed a systematic review of the current literature studying PLID in patients with a history of COVID-19. The review was performed according to PRISMA Statement. Epidemiological, clinical, hospitalization features, laryngeal diseases and voice outcomes were extracted from the included papers. Results: Eight papers met our inclusion criteria (393 patients) corresponding to 5 uncontrolled prospective and 3 retrospective studies. The most prevalent PLID were vocal fold dysmotility (65%), vocal fold edema (35%), laryngopharyngeal reflux (21%), and muscle tension dysphonia (21%). Posterior glottic stenosis (12%), granuloma (14%), and posterior glottic diastasis (12%) were the most common injuries. Most patients with PLID were obese and had a history of intensive care unit hospitalization, and orotracheal intubation. The delay between the discharge and the laryngology office consultation ranged from 51 to 122 days. The mean duration of intubation ranged from 10 to 34 days. Seventy-eight (49%) intubated patients were in prone position. The proportion of patients requiring surgical treatment ranged from 39% to 70% (mean=48%). There was an important heterogeneity between studies about inclusion, exclusion criteria and outcomes. Conclusion: COVID-19 appeared to be associated with PLID, especially in patients with a history of intubation. However, future controlled studies are needed to evaluate if intubated COVID-19 patients reported more frequently PLID than patients who were intubated for other conditions.
Determinants for Deployment of Climate-Smart Integrated Pest Management Practices: A Meta-Analysis Approach
Authors: Sekabira Haruna , Tepa-Yotto Ghislain T. , Djouaka Rousseau , Clottey Victor , Gaitu Christopher , Tamò Manuele , Kaweesa Yusuf , Ddungu Stanley Peter
Published: May 2022

Following the development and dissemination of new climate-smart agricultural technologies to farmers globally, there has been an increase in the number of socio-economic studies on the adoption of climate-smart integrated pests’ management (CS-IPM) technologies over the years. In this study, we review empirical evidence on adoption determinants of CS-IPM technologies and identify possible science-policy interfaces. Generally, our review shows that socioeconomic and institutional factors are influential in shaping CS-IPM adoption decisions of farmers. More specifically, income was found to positively influence the adoption of CS-IPM technologies while land size owned influences CS-IPM adoption negatively. Registered land tenure (registered secure rights) positively influences CS-IPM technologies’ adoption, implying that efficient land markets that enable competitive and fair distribution and access to land, more so by the vulnerable but efficient smallholder producers do indeed increase the adoption of CS-IPMs technologies. Social capital, achieved via farmers’ organizations is also central in fostering CS-IPM technologies’ adoption, just as markets reforms that minimize market failures regarding access to credit, labor, and agricultural information, which could indirectly hinder farmers’ use of CS-IPM practices. Functional extension systems that improve farmers’ awareness of CS-IPM do also improve CS-IPM technologies’ adoption. However, the adoption of CS-IPM technologies in Ghana and Benin is slow-paced because of factors like lack of access to farm inputs that facilitate uptake of these technologies, lack of credit facilities, and limited extension services among others. Interestingly, our review confirms that CS-IPM technologies do indeed reduce and minimize the intensity of pesticide usage and foster ecosystem (environmental and human) health. Therefore, this review unearths strategic determinants of CS-IPM adoption and makes fundamental guidance around climate-smart innovations transfer and environmental policies that should be prioritized to curb environmental pollution and ensure agricultural ecosystems’ sustainability.
Sequelae of COVID-19 at long-term follow-up after hospitalization
Authors: Pogosova N. V. , Paleev F. N. , Ausheva A. K. , Kuchiev D. T. , Gaman S. A. , Veselova T. N. , Belkind M. B. , Sokolova O. Yu. , Zhetisheva R. A. , Ternovoy S. K. , Boytsov S. A.
Published: May 2022

Aim. To assess long-term sequelae of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients at 3 to 7 months after discharge.

Material and Methods. The whole of 700 patients hospitalized to the temporary COVID-19 treatment center hosted by the FSBI “National Medical Research Center of Cardiology” of the Ministry of Health of Russia from April to June 2020 were invited to participate in a follow-up study. At 3-7 months after the index hospitalization, patients or their proxies were contacted via telephone in order to obtain information on their vital status, cardiovascular and other conditions or their complications, and new hospitalizations. In addition, patients were invited to an outpatient visit under the "COVID-19-follow-up" program, encompassing physical examination and a comprehensive battery of laboratory and instrumental tests, including spirometry, chest computed tomography (CT) and the six minute walk test (6MWT). Further, dyspnea was assessed using the mMRC (Modified Medical Research Council) Dyspnea Scale. 

Results: We were able to contact 87.4% (612/700) of patients or their proxies. At follow-up, 4.4% (27) patients died, of which 96.3% (26) had cardiovascular diseases (CVD). A total of 213 patients aged 19 to 94 years old (mean age 56.8±12.5, median 57 years [49.0; 64.0]; men, 55.4%) agreed come for an outpatient visit and to participate in the “COVID-19-follow-up” program. Since discharge, 8% (17) of patients required new hospitalizations, and more than a half of these patients (58.8%; 10/17) had CVD-related hospitalizations. A total of 8.4% (18) patients experienced worsening of hypertension, 9 (4.2%) patients had newly diagnosed hypertension, 2 (0.9%) – coronary artery disease patients experienced new/recurrent angina symptoms. 4 (1.9%) patients had newly diagnosed coronary artery disease, and one patient had an ischemic stroke. At the outpatient visit, 114 (53.5%) patients had some symptoms, most frequently, shortness of breath (33%), fatigue (27.4%), chest pain (11.3%), and abnormal heartbeats (8.5%). Based on the mMRC Scale, 59% of patients had dyspnea of varying severity. Most patients had a normal vital capacity (VC), which was moderately reduced in 3.3% and severely reduced in 0.5% of patients. Chest CT scans were obtained in 78 (36.6%) patients, whose worst lung damage scores during hospitalization were CT3 or CT4. One in ten patients (10.8%) with severe lung damage during acute infection had persisting ground glass opacities, 35.9% developed fibrotic changes, 79.6% of patients had linear or fine focal opacities. According to the 6MWT data, 12.3% of patients walked less than 70% of the predicted distance, 67% walked 71 to 99% of the predicted distance, and 20.7% of patients were able to walk 100% of their predicted distance.

Conclusion. These data suggest long-term negative sequelae of COVID-19 in more than half of hospitalized patients.
The Use of Levosimendan for the Treatment of Heart Failure and its Potential Organoprotective Effects
Authors: Lebedeva N. B. , Chesnokova L. Yu.
Published: May 2022

The review article is aimed at providing a recent update on the use of levosimendan, an inotropic drug in current use for the treatment of heart failure. The review discusses its mechanisms of action, main hemodynamic effects, clinical trials and obtained evidences that have formed the basis of the current guidelines on its use, as well as the latest clinical and experimental trials evaluating its organ-protective effects. Conclusion: levosimendan has a promising potential for treating heart failure, prescribed even in low doses, and may be regarded as a drug with cerebroprotective and possible nephroprotective effects, requiring further large randomized clinical trials.
COVID NIHILISM IN THE FIGHT AGAINST THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors:   Novosibirsk State Medical University, Novosibirsk, Russia, Emelyanova E.K. , Goroshko N.V. ,   Novosibirsk State Medical University, Novosibirsk, Russia,   Novosibirsk State Pedagogical University, Novosibirsk, Russia, Patsala S.V. ,   Novosibirsk State Pedagogical University, Novosibirsk, Russia
Published: May 2022

Significance. Emergence of such phenomenon as "COVID nihilism" and "COVID dissidents" can’t stop the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the study is to review factors determining COVID nihilism in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in the world and in Russia. Material and methods. The information base of the study included publications in periodicals and the Internet, statistical materials of the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University (JHU), YandexCoronavirus. Statistics and methods: general logical, analytical, statistical analysis and empirical research. Results. The main reasons for COVID nihilism and opposition to vaccine and mask mandates included imposition of freedom, independence of one's own body, belief in conspiracy theories, and concern about the side effects of masks and vaccines. The Internet activity to sabotage anti-COVID measures in the Russian Federation is rather pronounced, yet it failed to result in any riots and pogroms, unlike the EU countries. The share of people vaccinated against COVID-19 in the Russian Federation is twice lower compared to China, for example, due to citizens' concerns about the need for vaccination and fear due to the low level of virology literacy among the population. The main barriers to stop the pandemic are disbelief that the pathogen SARS-CoV-2 exists, disbelief that masks protect against infection and microdroplets containing viral particles, improper face mask wearing (inside out), violation of social distance, misinformation on the virus prevention and spread, anti-vaccine attitude due to misunderstanding of the process of vaccine development and action, social instability and mistrust in the authorities. Consequences of the ongoing pandemic include burden on healthcare system, excess mortality and post-COVID complications affecting quality of life of the entire population and duration of a healthy life. Under-examination and care deficiency, shortage of personnel, and care facility repurposing result in higher mortality from causes not associated with the COVID-19 infection.
USING INDICATORS OF PUBLIC SATISFACTION TO EVALUATE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE STANDARD FOR OUTPATIENT CARE ORGANIZATION
Authors:   Siberian State Medical University, Tomsk, Russian Federation, Protasova L.M. , Kobyakova O.S. ,   Russian Research Institute of Health of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation, Deev I.A. ,   Russian Research Institute of Health of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation, Boykov V.A. ,   Siberian State Medical University, Tomsk, Russian Federation, Shibalkov I.P. ,   Siberian State Medical University, Tomsk, Russian Federation, Baranovskaya S.V. ,   Siberian State Medical University, Tomsk, Russian Federation
Published: May 2022

Significance. The patient-centered approach to organizing medical care is becoming more and more popular in medical organizations of any form of ownership. The experience of medical organizations that have applied these principles demonstrates increase in compliance and continuity of treatment resulting in higher effectiveness, which ultimately leads to a higher level of public satisfaction with medical care. Purpose. To evaluate effectiveness of implementing the Standard for organizing outpatient care delivery using indicators of public satisfaction. Material and Methods. In the Tomsk Region, in order to improve effectiveness of medical care organization, Standard for Organizing Outpatient Care Delivery in the Tomsk Region (hereinafter referred to as “the standard”) was developed and implemented. It was established by the Decree No. 817 of the Tomsk Region Healthcare Department on September 10, 2018. The Standard consists of 14 sections that regulate activities of polyclinic structural divisions and certain aspects of work organization in health care facilities. Satisfaction was evaluated among parents of patients in 24 health care facilities of the Tomsk Region (23 polyclinics with the assigned pediatric population and one clinical and diagnostic polyclinic Regional Children’s Hospital) in 2018-2019. Conclusion. The study results show that the level of satisfaction with medical care can be used as an indicator for assessing performance of medical organizations. It contributes to improving efficiency of interaction between healthcare professionals and patients, which is the key aspect in building a patient-centered healthcare model. Scope of application. The study results can be used by heads of medical organizations and regional health authorities to implement projects based on lean production, evaluate effectiveness of measures aimed at increasing public satisfaction with medical care.
The role of health facility level factors on unintended pregnancy: Evidence from a population- level data linkage study
Authors: Khan Md Nuruzzaman , Harris Melissa L. , Huda Md Nazmul , Loxton Deborah
Published: May 2022

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to investigate the effects of health facility-level factors, including the availability of long-acting modern contraceptives (LAMC) at the nearest health facility and its distance from women’s homes, on the occurrence of unintended pregnancy that resulted in a live birth. Methods We analysed the 2017/18 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey data linked with the 2017 Bangladesh Health Facility Survey. The weighted sample comprised 5,051 women of reproductive age, who had at least one live birth within three years of the survey. The outcome variable was women’s intention to conceive at their most recent pregnancy that ended with a live birth. The explanatory variables were the health facility, individual, household, and community-level factors. A multi-level multinomial logistic regression model was used to assess the association of the outcome variable with explanatory variables. Results Nearly 21% of the total respondents reported that their most recent live birth was unintended at conception. Better health facility management systems and health facility infrastructure were found to be 14-30% protective of unintended pregnancy that resulted in a live birth. LAMC availability at the nearest health facility was associated with a 31% reduction (95% CI, 0.50-0.92) in the likelihood of an unwanted pregnancy that resulted in a live birth. Health facility readiness to provide LAMC was also associated with a 14-16% reduction in unintended pregnancy that ended with a birth. The likelihood of unintended pregnancy that resulted in a live birth increased around 20-22% with the increased distance of the nearest health facility providing LAMC from the women’s homes. Conclusion The availability of health facilities near women’s homes and access to LAMC can significantly reduce unintended pregnancy. Policies and programs to ensure access and affordability of LAMC across current health facilities and increasing the number of health facilities are recommended.
New Formulas for the Trigonometry of Isosceles Triangles
Authors: King Noah
Published: May 2022

This paper discusses a new formula to solve for the angle of isosceles triangles given proportion of differentiated unequivalent edge length versus the always-equivalent edges. The equation is equal to the arcsine of (X/2) multiplied by two. This formula is to be called ‘isn^-1(x)’, short for inverse isosceles sine equivalent. Also discussed is the non-inverse ‘isn(x)’ which is the cyclic function which is determined to correspond as the equivalent of the classic sine formula to isosceles triangles. The formula set is clearly superior and powerful at calculating the angle and measure of any given obtuse or acute triangle of an unclassified type, as well as unifying a simplest-fit formula across all types of triangle. Also discussed are two transform approximation formulas.
Modeling and optimization of adsorption conditions using response surface methodology for tetracycline removal by MnFe2O4/MWCNTs
Authors: Zhao Weigao , Hao Chenjie , Guo Yiping , Guan Chunfeng , Zhang Hongwei , Tian Yimei , Zhao Peng
Published: May 2022

It has previously been reported that MnFe2O4 magnetic multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MMWCNTs) could successfully be employed for the adsorption of tetracycline (TC). In this study, the optimal conditions and effects of external factors on TC adsorption by MMWCNTs were established by a response surface methodology (RSM) for the first time. Batch adsorption experiments demonstrated an increase in dosage and contact time effectively promoted the adsorption of TC, and maximum removal of 97.93%-99.13% was achieved at pH 3-7. The pseudo-second-order model and FT-IR spectra indicated that the mechanism of adsorption may be π-π electron interaction and cation-π electron bonding. Design Expert was utilized to develop a RSM for the analysis and optimization of TC adsorption by MMWCNTs. The Box-Behnken design (BBD) results showed that the optimization exhibited high significance and reliability. The main effect plots and Pareto chart indicated that pH exerted a significant individual effect on the regulation of adsorption, while 3D response surface plots and interaction effect plots exhibited a significant antagonistic interaction between pH and contact time. A maximum TC removal of 99.16 % was achieved under the optimal conditions of 12 mg adsorbent dosage at pH 5.43, with an adsorption time of 120 min. Mathematical and experimental results confirmed the accuracy of the established optimal conditions. These findings provide valuable reference for the industrial application of MMWCNTs for TC adsorption and exhibit an effective optimization method for the improvement of TC adsorption on MMWCNTs.
Ratchet based ion pumps for selective ion separations
Authors: Herman Alon , III Joel Ager , Ardo Shane , Segev Gideon
Published: May 2022

The development of a selective, membrane-based ion separation technology may prove useful in a wide range of applications such as water treatment, battery recycling, ion specific chemical sensors, extraction of valuable metals from sea water, and bio-medical devices. In this work we show that a flashing ratchet mechanism can be used for high precision ion separation. The suggested ratchet-based ion pumps utilize a unique feature of ratchets, the frequency dependent current reversals, to drive ions with the same charge but different diffusion coefficients in opposite directions. We show that ions with a relative diffusion coefficient difference as small as 1% can be separated by driving them in opposite directions with a velocity difference as high as 1.2 mm/s. Since the pumping properties of the ratchet are determined by an electric input signal, the proposed ion pumps can pave the way for simple large-scale, fit-to-purpose selective ion separation systems.
A modular quantum computer based on a quantum state router.
Authors: Zhou Chao , Lu Pinlei , Praquin Matthieu , Chien Tzu-Chiao , Kaufman Ryan , Cao Xi , Xia Mingkang , Mong Roger , Pfaff Wolfgang , Pekker David , Hatridge M.
Published: May 2022

A central challenge for realizing large-scale quantum processors is the design and realization of qubit-qubit connections: we must be able to perform efficient gates between qubits, yet prevent connections from spoiling qubit quality or prohibiting "debugging" the system. In this work, we present a microwave quantum state router that realizes all-to-all couplings among four independent and detachable quantum modules of superconducting qubits. Each module consists of a single transmon, readout mode, and communication mode coupled to the router. The router design centers on a parametrically driven, Josephson-junction based three-wave mixing element which generates photon exchange among the modules' communication modes. We first demonstrate coherent photon exchange among four communication modes, with an average full-iSWAP time of 760 ns and average inter-module gate fidelity of 0.97, limited by our modes' coherence times. We also demonstrate photon transfer and pairwise entanglement between the modules' qubits, and parallel operation of simultaneous iSWAP across the router. The gates demonstrated here can readily be extended to faster and higher-fidelity router operations, as well as scaled to support larger networks of quantum modules.
Grouping effects and cost influencing factors of DRG in orthopedic spine surgery cases
Authors: Luo Ming-wei , Luo Ming-yang , Xie Shi-wei , Pang Jie , Yan Jing
Published: May 2022

Objective: Analyzing the grouping effect of DRG in orthopedic spine surgery and influencing factors of hospitalization expenses, so as to provide the basis for DRG payment reform and control of medical expenses.Methods:The information of 248 cases of spinal surgery in sample hospitals was analyzed statistically, the grouping effect of DRG was evaluated by the coefficient of variation, and the influencing factors of hospitalization expenses were analyzed by single factor analysis and multiple stepwise regression analysis.Results:Patients who underwent orthopedic spine surgery were divided into three DRG groups: IB19, IB21 and IB23, with CV values of 0.37, 0.47 and 0.44, respectively, all of which were less than 0.5. Univariate analysis showed that age, comorbidities, hospital stay, critical illness and anesthesia mode affected hospital expenses, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Payment method and gender did not affect the hospitalization expenses, and the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). Stepwise regression analysis showed that comorbidities, hospitalization time, dying or seriously ill, anesthesia method and age were the main influencing factors of hospitalization expenses.Conclusion: The grouping of DRG in spine surgery cases can objectively reflect the level of medical resource consumption. Hospitals should use DRG payment reform as a breakthrough to promote clinical pathway management, standardize diagnosis and treatment procedures, shorten hospital stay, and control the unreasonable growth of medical expenses.
Redox-dependent Structural Origin of the Temperature Threshold and Sensitivity in the TRPV3 Bio-thermometer
Authors: Wang Guangyu
Published: May 2022

The DNA hairpin with a limited size is sensitive to temperature. However, it is unclear if thermosensitive TRP channels also use temperature-dependent hairpin sizes to govern their activation temperature thresholds and sensitivity. Here, graph theory was used as a novel method to test this hypothesis by analyzing the redox- and state-dependent cryo-electron microscopy structures of TRPV3 with or without the Y564A mutation at different temperatures. The results showed that the largest hairpin topological loop size and a change in total hairpin sizes along the channel gating pathway control the temperature threshold and sensitivity, respectively. This size-dependent hairpin thermodynamics may mediate the thermal stability and activity of biological macromolecules.
Glucose metabolic pattern in adult moyamoya disease with or without cognitive disorder: A 18F-FDG PET study
Authors: Weng Ruiyuan , Ren Shuhua , Su Jiabin , Ni Wei , Yang Chunlei , Gao Xinjie , Xiao Weiping , Zhang Xin , Jiang Hanqiang , Guan Yihui , Huang Qi , Gu Yuxiang
Published: May 2022

Cognitive disorder (CD) is a critical issue in moyamoya disease (MMD). This study aimed to identify the metabolic signature of cognitive disorder in MMD using 18F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose PET (18F-FDG PET). One hundred fifty-four MMD patients who underwent brain 18F-FDG PET scans before surgery were enrolled and classified into a cognitively intact (CI, n = 54) group and a cognitive disorder (CD, n = 100) group according to neuropsychological testing. Using 18F-FDG PET, we found that the CD group showed hypometabolism mainly in the left basal ganglia compared to the CI group. In addition, CD patients exhibited extensive hypometabolism in the bilateral frontal and cingulate regions and hypermetabolism in the bilateral cerebellum, while CI patients showed hypermetabolism only in the cerebellum and slight hypometabolism in the frontal and temporal regions compared to HCs. The SR-based classifier algorithm distinguished between CD and CI patients with an accuracy of 82.4%. This study demonstrated a characteristic metabolic pattern progressing from CI to CD in a large cohort of patients with MMD. Since 18F-FDG PET provides us with an available method to estimate cerebral metabolic patterns, it might be helpful in the early diagnosis of possible cognitive disorder in MMD patients.
T817MA regulates mitochondrial dynamics via Sirt1 and Arc following subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Xu Ye-Ping , Zhang Jing , Mei Xue , Wu Yan , Wang Su-Qin , Jiao Wei , Wang Yu-Hai , Zhang Ai-Qin , Chen Tao
Published: May 2022

Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is an acute neurologic emergency with poor outcomes, and mitochondrial dysfunction is known as one of the key pathological mechanisms underlying the SAH-induced early brain injury (EBI). 1-{3-[2-(1-benzothiophen-5-yl)ethoxy]propyl} azetidin-3-ol maleate (T817MA) is a newly synthesized neurotrophic compound that has been demonstrated to exert protective effects against brain injury. Here, we investigated the effect of T817MA in neuronal injury following experimental SAH both in vitro and in vivo. Primary cultured cortical neurons were treated with oxyhemoglobin (OxyHb) to mimic SAH in vitro, and T817MA at concentrations higher than 0.1 µM reduced OxyHb-induced neuronal injury. T817MA treatment significantly inhibited lipid peroxidation, reduced neuronal apoptosis and attenuated mitochondrial fragmentation. The results of western blot showed that T817MA markedly reduced the expression of mitochondrial fission proteins, fission protein 1 (Fis-1) and dynamin-related GTPase-1 (Drp-1), but prolonged the expression of the postsynaptic protein activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc). In addition, T817MA significantly increased the expression of sirtuin 1 (Sirt1), which was accompanied by preserved enzymatic of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH2) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Knockdown of Sirt1 and Arc via small interfere RNA (siRNA) transfection partially prevented the T817MA-induced protection in cortical neurons. Furthermore, treatment with T817MA in vivo significantly reduced brain damage and preserved neurological function in rats. The decreased expression of Fis-1 and Drp-1, as well as the increased expression of Arc and Sirt1 were also observed in vivo. Taken together, these data indicate that the neuroprotective agent T817MA protects against SAH-induced brain injury via Sirt1- and Arc-mediated regulation of mitochondrial dynamics.
The enhanced relationship between summer rainfall over the eastern Tibetan Plateau and sea surface temperature in the tropical southeastern Indian Ocean
Authors: REN QIAN , Jiang Xingwen , Shi Renrui
Published: May 2022

The summer rainfall in the eastern Tibetan Plateau (TP) is positively correlated with the sea surface temperature (SST) in the tropical southeastern Indian Ocean (SEIO). It is found that their relationship has enhanced significantly during the second period of 1984–2015 (P2) compared to the first period of 1951–1983 (P1). The anomalous anticyclone to the south of the TP is the major factor favoring more tropical moisture transported to the eastern TP (ETP) and the resultant above-normal-rainfall anomalies in the ETP in both the two epochs. However, the anomalous anticyclone and equatorial easterly anomalies associated with the warm SEIO SST anomalies is much stronger in P2 than those in P1. The warm SEIO SST anomalies are accompanied by a stronger El Niño in the preceding winter. It results in simultaneous warmer SST anomalies in the tropical Indian Ocean and colder SST anomalies in the equatorial central Pacific in P2. On the one hand, the excited meridional circulation induces suppressed convection leading to an anomalous anticyclone to the south of the TP. The anomalies of enhanced convection in the tropical eastern Indian Ocean and the downdrafts in the central Pacific favor the stronger equatorial easterly anomalies on the southern flank of anticyclone. On the other hand, the increased warming in the Indian Ocean basin produce an enhanced anticyclone and suppressed convection over the western North Pacific by emanating Kelvin waves. The diabatic cooling of suppressed convection induces the anomalous anticyclone to the south of the TP by exciting westward-propagating Rossby waves.