bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre-service teachers’ mathematical engagement in learning about the total surface areas of geometrical solids
Authors: Siyepu Sibawu Witness , Vimbelo Siphokazi Winniefred
Published: June 2021

In this article we report on pre-service teachers’ mathematical engagement regarding the total surface areas of geometric solids. Despite several attempts at improvement, the poor performance of South African learners in mathematics persists. This is attributed to instructional approaches. In the study reported on here we explored how pre-service teachers communicate conjectures, justifications, and generalisations to develop formulae for geometric solids. We employed a qualitative descriptive case study within the interpretive paradigm. Data were collected through document analysis and students’ written tasks. Four tasks were administered to 30 pre-service teachers to enable the researchers to reflect on their performance. Students’ written tasks were analysed with the aid of the model of mathematical knowledge for teaching, which served as the theoretical underpinning of the study. The findings of the study reveal that students can develop mathematical engagement and reasoning when appropriate tasks are designed to facilitate understanding of key concepts that are the cornerstone of learning about geometric solids. Certain concepts, notably, circles, radii, pi, rectangles, cones, Pythagoras’ theorem, slanting height, congruence, and prism, were crucial elements that should be explored prior to the introduction of the topic of the total surface areas of geometric solids. The study was an eye-opener to South African policy makers, mathematics teachers and lecturers in terms of identifying students’ weaknesses at pre-service level on how to develop logical methods to make sense in the learning of geometrical solids.
Assessment of learners with dyslexia in mainstream primary schools: An investigation
Authors: Nkomo Duduzile , Mulaudzi Peter , Dube Buyisani
Published: June 2021

With this study we sought to investigate the effectiveness of assessment of learners with dyslexia in mainstream primary schools in the Bubi district of Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe. An exploratory case study design of the qualitative approach was adopted. Semi-structured individual interviews and focus group interviews (FGI) were used to collect data from heads of schools and teachers selected for the study. Gathered data were analysed and interpreted thematically. The major findings of the study were that no standardised instruments existed to assess learners with dyslexia in the infant category, the test used for those in the junior school category was not effective enough and most teachers had limited knowledge of dyslexia. We recommend the development of a variety of culturally sensitive assessment tools for infants as well as the junior school category. We also recommend that early diagnosis for early intervention and continuous professional development of teachers to keep abreast of the current trends in the education of learners with dyslexia be implemented.
Learner discipline in the post-corporal punishment era: What an experience!
Authors: Obadire Olufunmilayo Tenidade , Sinthumule Dzivhonele Albert
Published: June 2021

Learner discipline is one of the bases of effective teaching and learning. If learners are not well disciplined, schools will not provide the best possible education. Therefore, it is important that good disciplinary measures and procedures be put in place in any school. In this article we investigate how learners in schools are currently being disciplined without violating their human rights. The nature and the causes of learners’ disciplinary problems are fundamental. A qualitative data-collection approach was employed in this research. Purposive non-probability sampling was used to select the participants for the study. Experienced educators from school disciplinary committees, Representative Councils of Learners (RCLs) and the school principals of 4 schools were interviewed. We found that the common causes of learners’ disciplinary problems varied from school to school. Furthermore, effective school management was found to be at the heart of learner discipline and the general academic performance of the school. We recommend that parents as first teachers should instill values and morals for their children to distinguish right from wrong.
Exploring how science process skills blend with the scientific process: Pre-service teachers’ views following fieldwork experience
Authors: Molefe Leonard , Aubin Jean-Baptiste
Published: June 2021

In science education, only teachers that are competent in skills, methods and procedures relevant to a science discipline can help learners to develop scientific skills and processes associated with investigating natural phenomena. The purpose of this study was to explore views of pre-service science teachers with regard to science process skills that they had developed through various freshwater activities and the stepwise scientific process. Data were collected through a 4-part questionnaire that included various science process skills and the scientific process. Ninety-four 2nd- and 3rd-year pre-service teachers that registered for a Bachelor of Education degree participated in this study. The results from statistical analyses of the teachers’ responses to skills they had developed showed prominence of observing, yet the teachers failed to link observing and communication to formulating a research question. Similar challenges were also evident in designing experiments. While the teachers were able to link science process skills to hypothesising, they experienced relative challenges in linking relevant skills to observation and drawing conclusions and making inferences. The findings suggest potential challenges to teachers on fair testing investigations in terms of questioning, designing of experiments, drawing of associated conclusions and making inferences.
The influence of local worldview presuppositions on learners’ conceptions of Selected Mechanics topics
Authors: Fakudze Cynthia
Published: June 2021

The study is situated within a worldview theory as espoused by socio-cultural constructivists. Science classrooms in secondary schools in Swaziland are culturally largely homogeneous where learners and their teachers have a strong grounding in traditional Swazi culture. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the conceptions held by Grade 11 learners of selected mechanics topics were influenced by the worldview presuppositions prevalent in their socio-cultural environment. The learners were exposed to a socio-culturally-based teaching/learning strategy that integrated selected indigenous knowledge presuppositions into school science. The learners were given a pre-and post-physics achievement test (PAT). At the end of the intervention, a focus group interview was conducted with some of the learners. Data on selected PAT questions were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. The learners’ responses to the focus group interview and the PAT’s open-ended questions were analysed at a later stage using the Ogunniyi’s Contiguity Argumentation Theory (CAT). The findings of the study show that the learners’ post-conceptions on selected mechanics topics were influenced by their local worldview presuppositions and could be analysed according to the CAT worldview categories.
Teaching thinking in South African schools: Selected school leaders’ perceptions
Authors: Green Lena , Collett Karen
Published: June 2021

In this article we argue that school leaders should ensure that teachers experience a supportive professional learning community committed to collaborative, thoughtful inquiry and be enabled to create similar communities in their classrooms. This study followed on one published in 2017 that explored school leaders’ responses to an introduction to cognitive education. The same participants investigated cognitive education practices (ways of teaching thinking) in their schools, with an emphasis on the factors that facilitated or constrained implementation. Using a qualitative research approach an open ended research assignment in the form of a report was completed by 32 teachers in school leadership positions. The data was analysed using the guidelines of grounded theory to identify key themes. The findings suggest a possible starting point for leadership initiatives, although cognitive education practices in the participating schools were constrained by a number of structural, contextual and personal factors. Discussion highlights the importance of the development of professional learning communities that focus on cognitive education and identifies a possible leadership direction, namely, building on the progress already made in training teachers to apply Bloom’s taxonomy to assessment tasks. Although our data is from schools in one area of South Africa, our conclusions are likely to have implications for school leadership generally, with particular reference to the development of classroom and professional thinking and learning communities.
The predictive influence of gender, onset of deafness and academic self-efficacy on the attitudes of deaf learners towards Biology
Authors: Adigun Olufemi Timothy , Nzima Dumisani R.
Published: June 2021

In the study reported on here we examined the attitudes of deaf learners towards biology in Ibadan, Nigeria. Forty-one deaf learners (28 males; 13 females) in the Secondary School II science classes from 3 government-funded secondary schools for the deaf were purposively selected for the study. In the study we adopted a descriptive survey research design of the correlational type. Four research questions were raised and answered. A structured questionnaire, “Deaf Learners and Biology Questionnaire” with a reliability coefficient of 0.81, was used for data collection. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics and inferential statistics of Pearson product moment correlation, multiple regression and t-test at 0.05 level of significance. There was a positively significant relationship between academic self-efficacy and the attitudes of deaf learners towards biology (r = 0.511; p < 0.05); a significant but negative relationship between gender and the attitudes of deaf learners towards biology (r = 0.15; p < 0.05). No significant relationship between the onset of deafness and the attitudes of deaf learners towards biology (r = 0.810; p > 0.05) was observed. A total of 58.1% of the variance of the independent variables accounted for the attitudes towards biology among deaf learners who participated in the study. We conclude that academic self-efficacy has a great effect on the attitude of deaf learners towards biology. Gender contributes to and is inversely proportional to learners’ disposition towards biology. In light of the findings, appropriate recommendations are made.
Deep learning opportunities in the geography classroom
Authors: Naidoo Devika
Published: June 2021

From a cognitivist theory stance, domain-specific subject knowledge is necessary for deep learning and cognitive advance. What opportunities for deep learning and cognitive advance are provided in geography classrooms? This analysis of teaching in geography classrooms is framed by the concepts of deep learning, pedagogic discourse, and a curriculum of engagement. This article draws on Grade 10 and 11 lessons observed, recorded, transcribed, analysed and qualitatively interpreted. Analysis of pedagogic discourse shows diminished opportunities for deep learning and cognitive advance. Geography is being taught in less elaborated ways and more for compliance, thereby hindering deep learning of the epistemic structure of geography. Furthermore, surface features of the curriculum including knowledge as “given” have displaced attention to underlying principles and conceptual meanings. These practices deny learners access to deep learning of powerful knowledge. Implications for social equality and teacher education are raised.
Recruitment and retention of male educators in preschools: Implications for teacher education policy and practices
Authors: Okeke Chinedu Ifedi , Nyanhoto Enock
Published: June 2021

In the study reported on here we employed the interpretivist qualitative approach to explore the recruitment and retention of male educators in preschool centres. Purposive sampling was used to select 2 preschool owners, 2 principals, 4 preschool educators and 2 male educators in the Foundation Phase. Data were obtained by in-depth interviewing and were analysed thematically. Results showed no male educators in preschools in the education district where the study was conducted. Misinterpretation of cultural roles, stigma, fear and prejudice, low educator status within the preschool sector and a lack of male recruitment policies were found to be negatively affecting the recruitment of males into the preschool sector. A gender balance that ensures that both female and male educators are recruited within the preschool sector would appear to be congruent with the philosophical underpinnings of the Social Role Theory (SRT). The Departments of Education and Social Development should, therefore, embark on awareness campaigns to educate all stakeholders on the need for a gender balance within the preschool sector.
Exploring the pre-service teacher mentoring context: The construction of self-regulated professionalism short courses
Authors: Smit Tanya , du Toit Pieter H
Published: June 2021

During work integrated learning (WIL), pre-service mentoring helps prepare final-year education students for the workplace. The pre-service teacher is placed alongside a mentor teacher, and the higher education institution (HEI) stipulates the timeline and the requirements. This study follows a wide-ranging research project, identified by the acronym FIRE (Fourth-year Initiative for Research in Education). In this article we focus on pre-service teacher mentoring experiences, partnerships, roles, and teacher identity development concerning mentor teachers, not mentor lecturers. The results of 2 baseline exploratory research surveys are shared. The attitudes, beliefs, opinions and practices of Senior, Further Education and Training phase mentor teachers and pre-service teachers were gathered, measured and compared. The responses to 2 cross-sectional questionnaires in electronic format provided a competence-base for the design of curricula for 2 short courses about mentoring and self-regulated professionalism. The 2 short courses were created for mentor teachers and pre-service teachers.
Accurate Age Estimations from Dental Cementum and A Childbirth Indicator - A Pilot Study
Authors: MM Ristova , M Talevska , Z Stojanovska
Published: June 2021

This work is a pilot study that introduces an improved method for estimation of a chronological age of a human being using the incremental lines in a dental cementum. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images of longitudinal sections of the tooth roots were subject to SEM analysis. The protocol allows accurate age estimation even if the SEM images reveal a limited number of distinct incremental lines. Micrographs were analyzed with a calibrated thickness measuring tool, such as ImageJ. The study was based on fifteen freshly extracted teeth from adult males and females of a known age. An average cementum thickness (C) and average incremental line thickness (IL) was calculated for each chosen perpendicular level of the tooth root from the SEM image. The number of the incremental lines (nIL) was calculated from the ratio of the mean C and IL, averaged across all levels. Finally, the estimated age is presented as a mean age from the data measured. The proposed protocol for age estimation represents a highly accurate (95%), repeatable and reliable tool for estimation of the chronological age of an individual, using one single SEM scan. Also, from a single case study, we report that an anomalously thick incremental line occurred at the time position which could be related to a childbirth of that female individual. The method can serve forensic purposes.
“Only Cigarette Butt is Left, DNA Fingerprinting Traps the Theft”
Authors: SG Pawar , VS Harel , KD Mahajan , BP More , KV Kulkarni
Published: June 2021

The examination of saliva traces left on cigarette butts as evidences are complicated due to the availability of biological material in trace amounts and its rapid degradation due to extreme effects of environmental factors. This study is aimed to assess the DNA purity and quantify the amount of DNA preserved in saliva found on cigarette butts subjected to various temperatures and humidity. Isolation of cell material from biological traces on forensic evidence is often a serious challenge to solving forensic cases. Successful isolation of high-grade DNA from cell material even in critically low quantity could be achieved in examination of traces. The proper collecting and storage of the material is very important for successful DNA typing from saliva traces and epithelial cells from the lips and oral cavity. Meeting these conditions would increase the chances for successful DNA profiling of biological traces on evidence of an earlier date. In the presented forensic cases the opportunity for solving the crime was given by the vices of the suspects. In this case one cigarette butt found at scene of crime was the only evidence to detect the accused. DNA is extracted from salivary epithelial cells adheres to the cigarette butt and profiled successfully. DNA profiles of suspected accused and the cigarette butt are matched in the source.
Age Related Variation in Feminine Handwriting among Population Groups of Delhi, India
Authors: Deepani Vijit , Kapoor A.K , Saini Monika
Published: June 2021

Background: Handwriting is a uniquely human trait which progresses and evolves during lifetime and declines with age. The aim of the present paper is to assess variation in handwriting features with age among female writers of select population groups of Delhi, India (for roman script). Method: A total of 405 handwritten samples were obtained from female (n=405) writers in the age range of 14-60 years. Writers were stratified into three age groups (≤ 18 years, 19-38 years and ≥39 years) in accordance to population group. Macro- and micro-features of handwriting were extracted from the scanned handwritten samples. These features were subjected to statistical analysis in the objective driven research. Result: The mean difference among age groups for pen pressure, height of handwriting and handwriting connectivity was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Significant difference was also observed among age groups for all micro-features of handwriting selected in the present study, namely, nature of ‘i’ – dot (p < 0.001), nature of lower loop of ‘g’ (p < 0.01); nature of‘d’- stem (p < 0.01), nature of ‘m’-hump (p < 0.05) and ‘r’- shape (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The present study showed that there was a significant variation in both macro- and micro- features of handwriting with respect to age of the writer. Pen pressure, height of handwriting and handwriting connectivity were prominent macro-features that addressed age related variation in handwriting. In addition, significant variation was observed among age groups for all micro-features of handwriting selected in the present study. The present study has immense forensic significance as it can assist to analyze age of the writer on the basis of handwriting characteristics.
Impaired Driving Associated with the Synthetic Cannabinoid 5F-ADB
Authors: KR McCain , JO Jones , KT Chilbert , AL Patton , LP James , JH Moran
Published: June 2021

Synthetic marijuana compounds are more potent than Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and are known to produce a wide variety of clinical symptoms including cardiac toxicity, seizures, and death. Erratic driving by a 45 y/o male was witnessed in the fall of 2017 and roadside evaluation of the driver by the responding law enforcement officer concluded that the driver was intoxicated. Comprehensive analysis of the cigarettes by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry detected the synthetic cannabinoid 5-fluoro-ADB (5F-ADB or 5F-MDMB-PINACA). Validated forensic liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methods were used to detect the 5-fluoro ADB metabolite 7 (26.37 ng/mL) in the driver’s blood sample. No other drugs were detected. This case report is one of the first to conclusively show that designer synthetic cannabinoids, commonly referred to as “K2” and “Spice”, can significantly impair driving at relatively low concentrations.
B-Lines on Chest Ultrasound Predicts Elevated Left Ventricular Diastolic Pressures
Authors: O Maadarani , Z Bitar , K Almeri
Published: June 2021

Background: Echocardiography and lung ultrasound are important tests for assessing left ventricular function in patients presented to the emergency department with acute pulmonary edema. Chest ultrasound is becoming an important tool in diagnosing acute pulmonary edema. Aim: To investigate the relationship between the B profile on ultrasound chest and Spectral tissue Doppler echocardiography (E/e’ ratio) in patients presented with the suspicion of acute pulmonary edema. Methods: This paper reports a prospective observational study of 61 consecutive patients, which was presented with symptoms and signs of pulmonary edema and B - profile detected by echocardiography with a 5 MHz curvilinear probe. Critical care physicians trained in ultrasound examination performed echocardiography and chest ultrasounds. Results: Sixty-one participants were included in the study. Forty-seven of the 61 patients had a B-profile and 14 patients had an A profile. The mean E/e’ level in the patients with B-profile was 20.8, compared with the mean level in the patients with an A-profile of 8.2 (CI = 0.33-0.82). The distribution in the two groups differed significantly (p=0.003). Based on the value of E/e’, the sensitivity and specificity were determined; the sensitivity of B profile on ultrasound was 92% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.812-0.968), and the specificity was 91% (CI =0.623-0.98). The positive predictive value of the B-profile was 97% (CI=0.889-0.996), and the negative predictive value was 71% (CI=0.454-0.883). The systolic function in the subjects with a B-profile was below 50% in 74.3% of the subjects and normal in 25.7% of the subjects. All the subjects with B profile and systolic function > 50% had elevated ProBNP and E/e’ > 15. An A-profile subjects had systolic function > 55%. Conclusions: Detecting the B-profile in lung ultrasound is highly sensitive and specific for elevated left ventricular diastolic pressures regardless of the systolic function of the left ventricle which may help in diagnosing pulmonary edema.
Evaluation of the Mandibular Incisive Canal by Panoramic Radiography and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Tauber Pablo E , Mansilla Virginia , Brugada Pedro , Sánchez P Sara S , Honoré Stella M , Elizari Marcelo , Molina Sergio Chain , Albano FelixA , Corbalán Ricardo R , Castellanos Federico Figueroa , Bioeng Damian Alzugaray
Published: June 2021

Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in Brugada syndrome (BrS) has been performed both endocardially and epicardially. The substrate in BrS is thus unclear. Objectives: To investigate the functional endocardial substrate and its correlation with clinical, electrophysiological and ECG findings in order to guide an endocardial ablation. Methods: Thirteen patients (38.7±12.3 years old) with spontaneous type 1 ECG BrS pattern, inducible VF with programmed ventricular stimulation (PVS) and syncope without prodromes were enrolled. Before to endocardial mapping the patients underwent flecainide testing with the purpose of measuring the greatest ST-segment elevation for to be correlated with the size and location of substrate in the electro-anatomic map. Patients underwent endocardial bipolar and electro-anatomic mapping with the purpose of identify areas of abnormal electrograms (EGMs) as target for RFA and determine the location and size of the substrate. Results: When the greatest ST-segment elevation was in the 3rd intercostal space (ICS), the substrate was located upper in the longitudinal plane of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) and a greatest ST-segment elevation in 4th ICS correspond with a location of substrate in lower region of longitudinal plane of RVOT. A QRS complex widening on its initial and final part, with prolonged transmural and regional depolarization time of RVOT corresponded to the substrate locateded in the anterior-lateral region of RVOT. A QRS complex widening rightwards and only prolonged transmural depolarization time corresponded with a substrate located in the anterior, anterior-septal or septal region of RVOT. RFA of endocardial substrate suppressed the inducibility and ECG BrS pattern during 34.7±15.5 months. After RFA, flecainide testing confirmed elimination of the ECG BrS pattern. Endocardial biopsy showed a correlation between functional and ultrastructural alterations in two patients.
Prevalence of Subclinical Levt Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in Patient with Metabolic Syndrome in West Region of the Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Y Jani
Published: June 2021

Background: Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) has been associated with subclinical changes in cardiac structure and function, including left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) and is strong risk factors for the future development of clinical heart failure, and specifically increases the risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. To date, the evidence on the prevalence of subclinical LVDD in patient with MetS and relation to components of the MetS, in west region of the Republic of Macedonia are scarce. Objective: We sought to determine the prevalence of subclinical LVDD and relation to components of the MetS, in patient with MetS in our region. Methods: We conducted a multicenter observational cross-sectional study. Recruited were 550 consecutive participants,450 with MetS (mean age 50 years,49% women) and 100 controls (no risk factors for MetS; mean 51 years,57% women) , who attended outpatient visits at general cardiology Health Care Clinics in 6 town on western region Republic of Macedonia, during 1 calendar year. Pertcipans underwent echocardiography with tissue Doppler imaging. Results: Participants with MetS, have significantly increased frequency of subclical LVDD grade 1, in comparation with participants without MetS. (39, 7% vs. 6%, p=0.0005). The overall frequency of subclinical LVDD grade 1, in participants with MetS, was 39, 7%; p=0.0005). Subjects with MetS also had worse measures of diastolic function, including: higher Lev Atrial Volum index {(LAVI), (p=0.00), Lower E/A ratio (p=0.00),lower mean e’(p=0.00) and lower E/ e’ ratio(p=0.00), increased Deceleratio time {(DT),(p=0.00)} and Isovolumetric Relaxation time{(IVRT), (p=0.00). Overall, participants with subclinical LVDD, had a worse cardiovascular risk factor profile, including: higher BMI (p=0.001), higher blood pressure{(BP) (p=0.003)}, elevated Weist circumference{(WC)(p=0.001)} and dyslipidemia (p=0.000) in comparation with participants with normal diastolic function. Also, participants with subclinical LVDD,have more risk factors for MetS than participants with normal diastolic function (p=0.002). There was a significant assotiation between subclinical LVDD and: Age (OR=1.108; 95% CI 1.051 -1.168), Females (OR=3.633; 95% CI2.439-5.413), BMI (OR=7.474; 95% CI 4.881-11.443), control of BP (OR=1.763; 95% CI 1.204-2.580) and number of MetS risk factors (OR= 3.609; 95% CI 2.054-6.340). Conclusion: The prevalence of subclinical LVDD in the patients with MetS, in abscence of coronary disease and other well know heart disease, is considerablye high in western region of the Republic of Macedonia and seem to be significantly associated with age, gender, BMI, Levt Ventricular mass index (LVMI) and number of risk factors for MetS.
Health-Related Quality of life of Complete versus Infarct artery-only Percutaneous Coronary Revascularization in Multi-vessel Disease with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: JC Jayaraj
Published: June 2021

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as measured by the EQ-5D (European quality of life-5 dimensions) self-report questionnaire in patients treated with complete revascularization versus infarct artery-only revascularization at index admission. Background: The revascularization strategies for multivessel disease while undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (P-PCI) on HRQoL is uncertain. Methods and Results: STEMI patients with multivessel disease underwent either complete or between April 1, 2012, and March 31, 2014, were subdivided into those who underwent complete revascularization (n = 133) or infarct-related artery (IRA)-only revascularization (n = 139) at index admission. The EQ-5D assessed mobility, self-care, usual activity, pain or discomfort, and anxiety or depression. Patient groups were differed at baseline by gender and prevalence of heart failure. At 2-year follow-up, both mean (±SD) EQ-VAS and EQ-5D utility scores were lower for patients who underwent complete revascularization versus infarct artery-only revascularization (60.00 (±18.8) vs. 59.03 (±16.9), P < 0.03, and 0.68 (±0.02) vs. 0.54 (±0.02), P<0.004, respectively). Conclusion: The clinically significant improvement in QoL was seen in the complete revascularization group compared with treating only the IRA at 24 months.
Impact of Myocardial Revascularization on the Range of Joint Motion of the Superior and Inferior Members
Authors: AL Lisboa Cordeiro , ASF De Lima , RDS Silva Bispo , AL Lisboa Cordeiro , DL Borges , G Gardenghi , AR Guimarães , MS Esquivel , HDC Mascarenhas
Published: June 2021

Introduction: The surgical procedure for myocardial revascularization (MRI) may compromise chest stability, compliance and range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder joint due to sternotomy and knee joint due to saphenectomy. Objective: To evaluate the impact of myocardial revascularization surgery on upper and lower limb ROM Methodology: This is a prospective cohort study, performed with a group of patients submitted to cardiac surgery. In the preoperative period the ROM was evaluated through a goniometer, for flexion, horizontal abduction and vertical abduction of the right and left shoulder, as well as evaluation of the flexo-extension movement of the right knee. On the day of discharge from the Intensive Care Unit, the patients were reassessed. Results:Twenty patients were evaluated during the time of the study. The majority were men 14 (70%), with a mean age of 60 ± 10 years. Regarding ROM, it was verified that all the movements presented a significant reduction in the postoperative period. The right shoulder flexion (75 ± 11ºvs66 ± 8º, p = 0, p <0.01), right shoulder abduction (155 ± 17º vs127 ± 22º, p < (P = 0.02), right vertical abduction (142 ± 24º vs117 ± 22º, p <0.01), left vertical abduction (142 ± 24º vs121 ± 22º, p = 0), left horizontal abduction (79 ± 9º vs70 ± 5º, p=0,02), Knee flexion (100 ± 14º vs75 ± 19º, p <0.01) and knee extension (94 ± 13º vs79 ± 15º, p <0.01). Conclusion: It can be concluded that the surgery promote reduction of the range of joint motion in this sample of patients submitted to myocardial revascularization.
His Bundle Pacing: Short Review of Literature and Technical Aspects
Authors: S Mukherjee
Published: June 2021

History of pacing has evolved from the primitive state of temporary transvenous pacing by large fixed machine to leadless modern technology. The pacing site has also been changed from traditional right ventricular apex to various other sites. The concept behind such experient was due to several complications in the long term from traditional Right Ventricular Apical Pacing (RVAP). The His Bundle pacing results in conduction and contraction similar to and and more often called physiological pacing. This mini review describes short history of evolution of concept of His Bundle pacing and its technical aspects of successful implantation.
Predicting Multi-Drug Inhibition Interactions based on Signaling Networks and Single Drug Dose-Response Information
Authors: HB Fang , H Huang , R Clarke , M Tan
Published: June 2021

Inhibiting multiple pathways/targets with combination drug therapies is widely used to maximize therapeutic benefit in many diseases. Therapeutic success can often be improved by concurrently and/or sequentially inhibiting multiple pathways/targets by combining drugs with different mechanisms of action. It is critical to understand potential drug interactions in developing and optimizing new multidrug regimens. We used data from experiments of single drugs (and few combinations) and existing signaling network knowledge from sources such as KEGG, to develop a statistical rescaling model to describe the effects of drugs on network topology. The model comprises a Hill equation for signals arriving at each receptor, a generic enzymatic rate equation to transmit signals among connecting genes, and a regression model to represent the cumulative effect of genes implicated in activation of the cell death machinery. We performed in silico experiments to derive a global sensitivity index of each term in the functional ANOVA of the dose-response model by generating doses of the drugs with the Quasi Monte-Carlo method. Only terms with large (principal) global sensitivity indices remain in the functional dose-response model. Thus, we reduce a high dimensional problem into one that can be managed experimentally. The model generates an index that indicates potential interactions of the drugs and the principal combinations, those associated with large global sensitivity indices, can be considered as candidates for further experimental validation.
Novel Computational Model of the Brain Water Metabolism: Introducing an Interdisciplinary Approach
Authors: E Titovets
Published: June 2021

Brain water metabolism ensures the processes of cellular communication, transit of the signaling molecules, neurotransmitters, cytokines and substrates, participates in the clearance of pathogenic metabolites. Many neurological conditions that present serious clinical problems arise from altered fluid flow (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease, idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus, migraine, traumatic brain injury and stroke). At present, the orthodox theory fails to explain the accumulated experimental evidence and clinical data on the brain water metabolism. Modeling becomes an important approach to testing current theories and developing new working mechanisms. A novel computational model of brain water metabolism has been developed and explored. Using an interdisciplinary approach the long-recognized nanodimentionality of the brain interstitial space is now viewed as a nanofluidic domain with the fluid flow there governed by the slip-flow principles of nanofluidics. Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) of the astrocyte endfeet membranes ensures kinetic control over water movement across the blood-brain barrier. The pulsatory intracranial pressure presents the driving force behind the transcapillary water flow. The model demonstrates good predictability in respect to some physiological features of brain water metabolism and relevance in explaining clinical conditions. The model may find its use in neurobiological research, development of the AQP4-targeted drug therapy, optimization of the intrathecal drug delivery to the brain tumours, in a research on a broad spectrum of water-metabolic-disorder-related conditions.
Sulak alanlarda potansiyel toksik element (PTE) kaynaklı bölgesel ekolojik risk araştırmalarında kullanılan analitik metotlar
Authors: FURAL Şakir , KÜKRER Serkan
Published: June 2021

Sulak alan ekosistemleri çok sayıda fauna ve flora türüne yaşam ortamı sunan, aynı zamanda insanların faydalandığı önemli doğal kaynak değerleridir. Son yıllarda artan antropojenik etkiler sulak alanlarda PTE kaynaklı ekolojik bozulmaya ve buralardan çeşitli yollarla faydalanan insanlar üzerinde sağlık risklerine neden olmaktadır. Bu nedenle, sulak alanlarda ekolojik bozulma ve sağlık riski analizleri yapmak için analitik metotlar geliştirilmiştir. Zenginleşme faktörü (Enrichment factor-EF), Kontaminasyon faktörü (Contamination factor-CF), Modifiye kontaminasyon derecesi (Modified contamination degree-mCd), Jeoakümülasyon indeksi (Geoaccumulation index-Igeo) ile elementlerin doğal ve antropojenik kaynakları tespit edilmektedir. Modifiye ekolojik risk indeksi (Modified ecological risk-mER) Modifiye potansiyel ekolojik risk indeksi (Modified potential ecological risk-mPER), Kirlilik yük indeksi (Pollution load index-PLI), Toksik risk indeksi (Toxic risk index-TRI), Modifiye edilmiş risk oranı (Modified hazard quotient-mHQ), Ekolojik kontaminasyon indeksi (Ecological contamination index-ECI) ve Kontaminasyon ağırlık indeksiyle (Contamination severity index-CSI) ekolojik risk değerlendirmesi yapılmaktadır. Kanserojen olmayan sağlık risklerinin tespiti için Tehlike indeksi (Hazard index- HI) ve Tehlike oranı (Hazard quotient-HQ), kanser riski tespiti için Yaşam boyu toplam kanser riski indeksi (Lifetime cancer risk index-LCR) hesaplanmaktadır. PTE’lerin ortak kaynaklarını tanımlamak ve taşınma süreçlerini tespit etmek için çok değişkenli istatistiksel analizler ve Coğrafi Bilgi Sistemleri’ne dayalı mekânsal analizler kullanılmaktadır. Bu çalışmada, yukarıda belirtilen metotların kapsamlı bir değerlendirmesi yapılmıştır.
Gökçeada’da sel afeti: 2014
Authors: ACAR Zahide , GÖNENÇGİL Barbaros , ÖZTÜRK Beyhan
Published: June 2021

Ege Denizinin kuzeyinde, 290 km2 yüzölçümü ile Türkiye'nin en büyük adası olan Gökçeada, Çanakkale ilinin 12 ilçesinden biridir. Adrese Dayalı Nüfusa Kayıt Sistemi Sonuçlarından edinilen bilgiye göre, Gökçeada 9440 kişiden oluşan nüfusa sahiptir. Adanın, çevre özellikleri ile sosyo-ekonomik faaliyetleri önemli ölçüde bulunduğu coğrafi alanda etkili olan hava kütleleri ve cephesel sistemlere bağlı olarak şekillenir. Çalışmada, Gökçeada'da 2 Mayıs 2014 tarihinde meydana gelen sel afeti incelenmiştir. Sel afetinin gerçekleştiği Çınarlı yerleşimi geçirgenliğe sahip olan jeolojik birimlerin yüzlek verdiği bir sahadır. 2 Mayıs 2014 tarihinde Gökçeada merkez yerleşim yeri çevresinde gerçekleşen aşırı yağış ile Çınarlı’da taşkın ve sel afetleri yaşanmıştır. Çalışmada, 1/25.000 ölçekli topografya haritaları ile 1/100.000 ölçekli jeoloji haritasından yararlanılmıştır. Topografya haritalarından Gökçeada’ya ait Sayısal Yükseklik Modeli oluşturularak Büyükdere havzası için havza analizi yapılmıştır. Ayrıca yağışlar şiddetine göre sınıflandırılmıştır. Aşırı yağışın neden olduğu afete ilişkin değerlendirmelerin yapıldığı bu çalışmada, benzer bir afetin yaşanmaması adına çeşitli öneriler sunulmuştur. Arazi kullanımı ve akarsu yatağındaki problemlerin devam etmesi halinde bir sonraki şiddetli yağışın aynı alanda benzer bir sonuca yol açacağı sonucuna varılmıştır.
Using polyan: a Python package for modelling polysome profiles from ribosome density data v2
Authors: von der Haar Tobias
Published: June 2021

The assessment of transcriptome-wide ribosome binding to mRNAs is useful for studying the dynamic regulation of protein synthesis in living cells. Two methods frequently applied in eukaryotic cells that operate at different levels of resolution are polysome profiling, which reveals the distribution of ribosome loads across the transcriptome, and ribosome footprinting (also termed ribosome profiling or Ribo-Seq), which when combined with appropriate data on mRNA expression levels can reveal ribosome densities on individual transcripts. we have provided Python functions for relating the information content of these two methods to one another, by reconstructing theoretical polysome profiles from ribosome footprinting data. Modelled polysomes are useful for assessing dataset quality in a simple, visual approach that is useful for validating and analysing ribosome footprinting datasets .
Thai Casinos For Online Gambling v1
Authors: george Alex
Published: June 2021

Top casino provide online casino games.
Full genome PCR amplification of all African Hepatitis B Virus genotypes v1
Authors: S IV Le Clercq Louis , Mary Bowyer Sheila , Mayaphi Simnikiwe
Published: June 2021

This method is and adaptation of the full genome amplification protocol published by Gunther et al., able to amplify most known genotypes. The primers bind near the fold in the genome where the DNA is partially double-stranded. Since genotype A1 of HBV frequently has two point mutations in the reverse primer binding region, a second primer was designed to circumvent them when amplifying A1 isolates. This protocol was used to amplify specimens from occult infections of HBV with genotypes A, D, and E.
Anti-Tumor Activity of Metformin in Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 Positive Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Fathul Huda Fathul Huda , Sari Ekawati Sari Ekawati , Anindy Putri Addina Anindy Putri Addina , Ahmad Faried Ahmad Faried , Afiat Berbudi Afiat Berbudi , Taofik Rusdiana Taofik Rusdiana , Tenny Putri Tenny Putri , Nurul Qomarilla Nurul Qomarilla , Lukman Hilfi Lukman Hilfi , Iwan Setiawan Iwan Setiawan , Bashari Muhammad Hasan
Published: June 2021

Breast Cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer death in women. One BC subtype is very aggressive with amplification of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein. Although specific HER2+ targeting agents are available, most of HER2+ BC patients develop resistant to these agents. Recent studies show that metformin, is able to become anti-tumor in various cancer cells. This research aims to evaluate anti-tumor activities of metformin to HER2+ BC cells in both sensitive and resistant to trastuzumab. A series of assays were performed to evaluate metformin anti-tumor activities in HCC-1954 and SKBR-3 HER2+ BC cells. MTT assay was performed to evaluate cell death, and inhibitory concentration (IC50), while scratch assay was performed to assess inhibition of cell migration and clonogenic assay to assess cell proliferation. p<0.05 was considered to be significant. Metformin could suppress the number of HER2+ BC cells. Viability assay showed suppression of viable cells after metformin incubation of 60 and 600 µM compared to control, 30 and 90%, respectively. Surprisingly, IC50 of metformin was smaller in HER2+ BC HCC-1954 cells that resistant to trastuzumab compare to the sensitive one (SKBR-3). Both were below 1 µM, with R2 more than 0.95. Additionally, clonogenic assay showed less colony number and colony area with at least p < 0.05 in colony number and p < 0.01 in the area. In addition, metformin inhibited cell migration of HER2+ BC cells. Metformin shows a potency as anti-tumor by inducing cell death, inhibiting cell proliferation and cell migration of HER2+ BC cells.
Personalized high-intensity laser therapy for patients with abnormal skin scars
Authors: Kurganskaya Inga G.
Published: June 2021

Background. Scars are an inevitable consequence and the final outcome of the restoration of the skin, after injuries, thermal effects on the skin, and are also formed as a result of the resolution of rash elements in various infectious skin diseases, with adverse wound healing after plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. According to WHO data for 2020, scar complications affect about 10% of the world's population, which is approximately 600 million people. High-intensity laser therapy technologies are considered by experts to be the "gold" standard in the correction of pathological scars, but a significant number of them are updated by the personalized approach developed in the last decade, aimed at individualizing treatment, searching for predictors of the effectiveness of various methods, taking into account a number of basic mechanisms of pathogenesis.
Aims: Scientific substantiation of the concept of personalized high-intensity laser therapy for patients with pathological skin scars.
Materials and methods. We studied 306 patients with atrophic (n=115), hypertrophic (n=100) and keloid (n=91) scars, which were divided into subgroups with emerging (formation period up to 1.5 years) and mature scars. Genetic, phenotypic, clinical, instrumental, laboratory, and medical-sociological methods were used to study the patient's condition and scar tissue. Laser therapy combinations were used: fractional ablative photothermolysis, homogeneous photothermolysis, planar ablative photodestruction, selective angiophotothermolysis, and fractional selective photothermolysis.
Results. It was found that various combinations of high-intensity laser therapy in patients with pathological skin scars cause a significant regression of clinical signs, restore the microrelief of tissues, improve the functional properties of scars (elasticity, elasticity, moisture, vascularization, etc.), which is accompanied by an improvement in the quality of life of patients. The complex of laser technologies forms a pronounced refibromodeling therapeutic effect in patients with pathological skin scars.
Conclusion. The concept of personalized (variant) high-intensity laser therapy in patients with atrophic, hypertrophic and keloid scars, which determines the dependence of the effectiveness of various options for laser correction of pathological scars on the genetic, phenotypic, clinical, morphofunctional and medical-sociological characteristics of patients, is scientifically substantiated. The determinants of the effectiveness of laser technologies have been identified, taking into account which allows the productive use of high-intensity laser radiation in patients with atrophic, hypertrophic and keloid skin scars.
Features of medical rehabilitation of patients who have suffered an ischemic stroke and have a history of obstructive chronic disorders of the respiratory system without exacerbation.
Authors: Vygovskaya Svetlana N. , Voropaev Alexey A. , Konchugova Tatyana V. , Styazhkina Elena M.
Published: June 2021

Background. To date, the study of respiratory function in the clinic is limited, as a rule, to the determination of bronchial conduction indicators, as well as bronchodilation tests, which at the present stage is insufficient for a deep assessment of the functional state of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Aims. The development of personalized medical rehabilitation programs for patients who have undergone ischemic stroke at various stages of rehabilitation, including spa.
Materials and methods. The article considers the effectiveness of the new method of treating neurological disorders in patients suffering from acute cerebral circulation disorder and having respiratory system function disorder at different stages of rehabilitation, based on the complex application of physiobalneotherapy, LFC and mechanotherapy in sanatorium and resort conditions.
Results. After the course of using physical methods of treatment, patients with comorbid pathology showed improvement in health, relief of breathing, reduction of shortness of breath, cough, sputum production, disappearance of wheezing in the lungs.
Conclusion. Patients in the early and late recovery period after acute cerebral circulation disorder with accompanying clinical-functional manifestations of respiratory pathology are shown to include in the rehabilitation complex general gasair carbon dioxide baths, nebulizer inhalations of broncho- and mucolytic preparations, as well as classes on a rowing simulator (rowing) against the background of standard drug therapy and therapeutic exercise in the hall.