bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integration Issues of Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in Psychological Research
Authors: Nosulenko V.N.
Published: October 2021

The article discusses the integration of qualitative and quantitative methods in psychological research. It is shown that the idea of such integration is embedded in the B.F. Lomov’s systemic paradigm and is in the general trend of modern research related to the Mixed Methods approaches. Examples of the development of the systemic paradigm in scientific and practical research of cognition and communication are given, in particular, concerning the application of the strategy of triangulation and the principles of inductive analysis for the integration of qualitative and quantitative empirical data. The specific possibilities of multiple triangulation and inductive analysis of not only data obtained by qualitative methods, but also quantitative data obtained by instrumental methods are considered. Studies are presented where qualitative (verbal) data are converted into quantitative ones, to which standard statistical procedures are applicable to identify causal links.
Altruism and Parochialism Among Children and Adolescents: Sex and Age Differences
Authors: Burkova V.N. , Butovskaya M.L. , Dronova D.A. , Adam Y.I.
Published: October 2021

The article presents the results of an experimental study of altruism and parochialism among school- children in Moscow and the Moscow region. The propensity for prosocial behavior in children was assessed using an experimental technique developed by E. Fehr and adapted earlier in our experiments with children (Tanzania). A sample of the study consists of 379 children and adolescents (192 boys and 187 girls) aged 7 to 17 years. Schoolchildren made decisions in six proposed dilemmas — prosocial behavior, envy and altruism. The aim of the study was to identify the sex and age characteristics of altruistic and parochial behavior of children and adolescents from schools in Moscow and the Moscow region. The results of the research show that girls were more prosocial in making decisions in relation to unfamiliar peers in one of the experimental games. But the age of the schoolchildren was more important predictor than sex in decision of the allocation of resources. With age, students were more altruistic in relation to friends and unfamiliar peers. The most important factor influencing altruistic behavior turned out to be belonging to one’s own group (friend- ship) — a significant parochial effect was observed in all six dilemmas.
The Flinn Effect in Russia: Impact of Settlements’ Size
Authors: Sugonyaev K.V. , Grigoriev A.A. , Panfilova A.S.
Published: October 2021

The rise in the intelligence tests scores across the generations, known as the Flynn effect, is widely studied in various countries due to critical role of intelligence as the most important component of human capital. Several explanations for the Flynn effect have been proposed, none of which have a predominant status. At least partly it can be explained by deficiency of studies devoted to the influence of various moderators on the speed and trajectory of the intelligence scores gain. This study presents the results of an analysis of the impact on the Flynn effect of such a poorly studied factor as the settlements’ size of a populated point. Intelligence scores (n = 267116) obtained during large-scale online testing of men aged 18—40 years between 2012 and 2019 were distributed among seven categories of populated points determined by their population size. Significant differences were revealed both in the level of IQ scores and in the rate of its growth, depend- ing on the respondents belonging to these categories. Differences in the level of intelligence of residents of megalopolises and small towns are 7 IQ-points on average, and the dynamics of growth in intelligence scores in the period 1983—2000 differs in some of the categories by more than 2 times. The smallest trend for this period was in cities with a population of 100 to 249.9 thousand people. Possible explanations for the differences are suggested. In particular, the selective migration of the most educated and intellectual part of their population to large cities and capitals may be a possible mechanism for inhibiting the Flynn effect in settlements with a smaller population.
Semantic Similarity and Difference in the Estimate of Verbal Designations of Basic Emotions by Young School Children and Adults
Authors: Khoze E.G. , Basul I.A. , Lupenko E.A. , Yuryeva M.V. , Marinova M.M.
Published: October 2021

The study is devoted to the experimental study of semantic similarities and differences in the assessments of verbal designations of basic emotions in adult and child samples — the focus is on the regularities of assessing basic emotions by children and adults using the semantic differential in terms of affective polar concepts. A comparative analysis of assessments of verbal designations of basic emotions by children and adults was carried out, which showed their coincidence in 72% of cases. The differences between adults and children are that adults rate them more pronounced (with the exception of “surprise”). The semantic differential developed taking into account age characteristics can be used to verify emoji expressions of basic emotions.
Motivation, Will, Goal Setting and the Growth of Sportsmanship of Middle and Long Distance Runners
Authors: Malanov S.V. , Subaeva A.S.
Published: October 2021

The article presents the results of a study aimed at analyzing the characteristics of the psychological organization of sports activities of middle and long distances runners. Based on a level analysis of sports activities, a questionnaire was developed and used to collect data to assess the characteristics of motivation, volitional and intentional-arbitrary goal-setting among athletes. Standardized methods were also used: “a questionnaire to identify the severity of self-control in the emotional sphere, activity and behavior”; “Scale of control over the action” by J. Kuhl; methods of self-assessment of the volitional qualities of a person; “The test of meaningful life orientations.” Calculations were made of the rank correlation between indicators on questionnaire scales and the level of sportsmanship in female and male samples. Significant directions of changes in motivation, goal-setting and volitional qualities in female and male samples were identified, as- sociated with the improvement of sports qualifications.
Legal Foundations of Funding Fundamental Science Projects within the Horizon Europe Programme
Authors: Slepak V. Yu. , Pozhilova N. A.
Published: October 2021

Since the end of the twentieth century, there has been a trend in Europe towards the accumulation of scientific knowledge, increasing the competitiveness of European research and the mobility of scientists themselves. The goals and objectives set by the European Union are being realised through the creation of a common European Research Area and the implementation of special framework programmes. The EU funding for basic research is now being pursued under a new framework programme known as Horizon Europe. Despite a number of changes caused by the increasing complexity of the structure of the bodies involved in funding research projects, grants to researchers, including through the activities of the European Research Council, remain the main sourсe of investment. Horizon Europe provides research and innovation funding for multinational cooperation projects as well as for individual researchers and supports SMEs with a special funding instrument. Attention should also be paid to such aspects of the programme implementation as European partnerships (in various forms) and research infrastructures. However, despite all the positive experiences of the previous framework programmes, the current legal regulations make it very difficult for researchers from third countries to participate in the call for proposals, usually the possible implementation of such projects is subject to the participation of European researchers or research organisations, thereby ensuring EU competitiveness in the international arena.
Geoestadística aplicada a la distribución de arcillas, Yacimiento Inferior, edad Eoceno, al Occidente de Venezuela
Authors: Mundo-Morales Reinaldo Jose , Granado-Parra Riccia Andreina , Urdaneta Jhoan Jose
Published: October 2021

El estudio se desarrolló en la Unidad de Producción Lagomar, en el Campo Urdaneta Lama, yacimiento C-5-X-18. El trabajo de investigación es de tipo proyectiva y está dividido en seis fases, que permitió recopilar, analizar e interpretar información de la propiedad petrofísica denominada volumen de arcillosidad (Vsh), mediante la aplicación de métodos geoestadísticos, para generar un modelo de distribución en el área. Esta investigación se ejecutó a través del estudio del análisis de laboratorio de Difracción de Rayos X (DRX) sobre las muestras de canal (muestras de zanja) de los 13 pozos seleccionados, permitiendo interpretar los datos de los mismos, para la determinación del porcentaje correspondiente a los minerales de arcillas más comunes que conforman el Vsh presente en el yacimiento, obteniendo cuatro tipos de arcilla, tales como: Caolinita como mayor aporte, seguidamente Ilita + Esmectita, después la Ilita y por último la Clorita. A su vez, se identificaron los 25 pozos que atravesaron el yacimiento y poseen registros convencionales y un pozo que posee registros especiales, permitiendo interpretar los mismos mediante las cartas litológicas de perfiles, arrojando un predominio de arcilla como la montmorillonita, Clorita, Ilita y mezcla de arcillas. A su vez, se generaron los variogramas experimentales de cada uno de los tipos de arcilla de los datos de DRX, ajustando todas las curvas con el variograma teórico potencial, con el fin de aplicar el método de estimación de Kriging, para realizar la distribución espacial de los contenidos de minerales de arcillas en zonas donde no existen datos de pozos (DRX). Por último, se generaron los mapas que representan la distribución de los tipos de arcilla del yacimiento C-5-X-18.
Utilización de algoritmos genéticos para la optimización en el cálculo de variogramas basadas en celdas para la simulación de un yacimiento
Authors: Portilla Carlos , Lucín Dennis , Malavé Carlos , Baque Richard , Erazo-Bone Romel , Del Pezo Elvira , Ramírez Juan , Escobar-Segovia Kenny
Published: October 2021

La importancia de analizar la continuidad y regularidad de las características de un yacimiento está en desarrollar una mejor predicción de reservas de petróleo in situ, por lo tanto, es necesario conocer como estos parámetros van a estar dispersos. Incorporando la totalidad de la información de la que se dispone de la zona de estudio, realizamos el proceso de caracterización del reservorio que tiene como objetivo simular un modelo del yacimiento lo más cercano a la realidad posible. Para esto se aplica el análisis de los variogramas como técnica geoestadística, que permite analizar el comportamiento espacial de las variables regionalizadas o propiedades del reservorio. Para dicho cálculo se deben definir algunos parámetros como datos de entrada para el modelamiento. En el presente trabajo se desarrolló un algoritmo que permita automatizar el cálculo de variogramas para la optimización de la selección de los parámetros que se necesitan para su ajuste en el modelamiento geoestadístico. Esta técnica consiste en la implementación de Algoritmos Genéticos (AG), probados por medio de la experimentación, que pueden ser utilizados para la optimización del cálculo de variograma basadas en celdas o malla. La técnica de Algoritmos Genéticos (AG) explota la información histórica (memoria implícita) del reservorio, para considerar nuevas zonas de interés con alto potencial de almacenamiento de hidrocarburo, para lo cual se ha ido construyendo el algoritmo para que mejore el cálculo y el ajuste variográfico.
Effects of high-fat diets on inflammation and antioxidant status in rats : comparison between palm olein and olive oil
Authors: Djohan Youzan Ferdinand , Monde Absalome Aké , Camara-Cissé Massara , Badia Eric , Bonafos Beatrice , Fouret Gilles , Lauret Céline , Dupuy Anne‑Marie , Pinot Edith , Koffi Gervais , Niamké Germaine , Sutra Thibault , Gaillet Sylvie , Lambert Karen , Raynaud Fabrice , Gayrard Nathalie , Jover Bernard , Cristol Jean Paul , Coudray Charles , Feillet‑Coudray Christine
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Palm olein (PO) and olive oil (OO) are widely consumed in the world. PO is considered harmful to health, whereas OO is considered healthy. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of consumption of these oils on antioxidant status and inflammation in rats. This was an experimental study in male wistar rats fed a diet containing 30% of each oil. Rats had free access to food and water. After being fed for 12 weeks, animals were sacrificed and liver and aortic blood were collected. Plasma was used for the determination of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and oxidative stress parameters (Superoxide dismutase -SOD; Gluthation peroxidase - GPx; Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances - TBARS; Thiol groups and isoprostane). The inflammation and oxidative stress status as well as the expression of several genes/proteins were also analyzed in liver homogenate. No significant differences were observed between PO and OO in plasma and liver levels of the studied inflammation and oxidative stress parameters. This study showed that the consumption of PO induces an antioxidant status superimposable to that of OO.
 
Key words : Palm olein - Olive oil - Oxidative stress - Inflammation - High fat diet
Комплексное исследование биоценоза побережья о. Ристисаари и оценка качества пресных вод северной части Ладожского озера
Authors: Сладкова Н.А. , Перепелкин В.В.
Published: October 2021

Произведено комплексное исследование пресноводного биоценоза побережья острова Ристисаари северной части Ладожского озера. Составлена карта растительных ассоциаций, определен видовой состав макрофитов, составляющих фитоценоз побережья острова. Произведен качественный и количественный анализ зообентоса, осуществлена оценка качества вод по индексу Майера и олигохетному индексу Гуднайт – Уотлея.
Treatment of animals without antibiotics
Authors: Rudenok V.A. , Kondrateva N.P. , Krasnolutskaya M.G. , Ovchukova S.A. , Zeynalov R.S.
Published: October 2021

The aim of our study was to develop a technology for treating animals with direct electrochemical blood oxidation. The process of direct electrochemical oxidation of blood occurs on the surface of a platinum wire electrode inserted into the blood vessel along its axis. The wire electrode is not in electrical contact with the DC power source. It is polarized by the current flowing between the additional electrodes. A solution containing a culture of staphylococci was poured into a test tube. After the passage of current through the system, staphylococci die. The cause of their death was not the electric current itself, but the products of sodium chloride electrolysis. Two chlorine atoms form a molecule that interacts with water to form an unstable hypochlorite ion, which decomposes to form atomic oxygen. Atomic oxygen is harmful to bacteria, viruses and their waste products. Positive results have also been obtained in treating dogs and calves for pneumonia.
Мультимедийные технологии в строительной сфере
Authors: Горбачев А.Ю. , Гулякин Д.В.
Published: October 2021

Технологии постоянно меняются в каждом секторе, программное обеспечение постоянно развивается, и значение, которое оно имеет для жизни людей, растет с каждым годом. Строительный сектор не остается в стороне, но внедрение технологий в строительной отрасли идет медленными темпами по сравнению с другими отраслями. Это происходит не из-за отсутствия нужды, а просто из-за того, что требования строительства настолько высоки, что технологиям потребовалось время, чтобы их догнать. В данной статье мы рассмотрим основные технологические тенденции в ближайшие годы, которые, наконец, были усовершенствованы и теперь пригодны для использования в данном секторе.
Обучение робототехнических устройств визуальной идентификации и комплексному анализу данных
Authors: Кокшарова Е.А.
Published: October 2021

В данной работе актуализирована тема разработки программного приложения для роботехнических устройств для реализации технологии визуальной идентификации объектов на основе машинного обучения. Рассматриваются современные подходы к проектированию визуальных сенсоров роботов, выделены актуальные направления работы проектирования оптических сенсоров и моделей зрения для робототехнических устройств. Также в работе приведено подробное описание структуры, и алгоритм работы системы, осуществляющей визуальную идентификацию объектов. В основе представленной системы заложен алгоритм идентификации LBPH, который на данный момент является передовым в области двумерной идентификации по изображению.
Проблемы выбора бизнес-моделей предприятий малого бизнеса при выходе на рынок КНР
Authors: Ли Цзюнь , Юй Шуанюань
Published: October 2021

Различные политические, экономические и социальные изменения в современном мире приводят к тому, что новые компании, в частности компании малого бизнеса, должны уметь адаптировать свои бизнес-модели к условиям изменяющейся внешней среды. В связи этим изменились принципы построения работы предприятий и правила формирования бизнес-моделей. Работа с устаревшими бизнес-моделями уже не приносит результатов. Актуальность темы данной темы исследования заключается в том, что определение существующих проблем выбора бизнес-моделей малых предприятий позволит определить наиболее эффективную стратегию определения бизнес-моделей в условиях изменяющей внешней среды.
Сетевой маркетинг – это мошенничество или будущее?
Authors: Маркосян О.Р. , Пидяшова А.А.
Published: October 2021

В данной работе отражено исследование, в ходе которого было раскрыто понятие сетевого маркетинга и определено его положение в мире бизнеса. Целью данного исследования является определение сетевого маркетинга как мошенничество или как процветающий бизнес. Для этого было изучено множество источников и предприятий, работающих на основе данного вида маркетинга.
Эффективное стратегическое планирование в организации
Authors: Анафиева Р.Р. , Коротицкая В.В.
Published: October 2021

В данной статье дается определение стратегическому планированию. Рассмотрены этапы эффективного стратегического планирования. Приведены тактики для успешной реализации стратегического планирования. Обоснована значимость стратегического планирования в эффективном функционале предприятия.
Effect of Casein Phosphopeptide Amorphous Calcium Phosphate and Xylitol Chewing Gums, and Probiotic Yogurt on Periodontal Parameters: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Mehrabkhani Maryam , Parisay Iman , Mastoory Niayesh , Barati Doghai Vajihe
Published: October 2021

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the effect of casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) and xylitol chewing gums, and probiotic yogurt, as chemical plaque control strategies, on periodontal parameters.
Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial evaluated 120 eligible dental students that were randomly divided into four groups (n=30) for use of (I) CPP-ACP chewing gum, (II) xylitol chewing gum, (III) probiotic yogurt, and (IV) chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash. The oral hygiene index-simplified (OHI-S), Silness and Loe gingival index (GI), and Silness and Loe modified plaque index (PI) were measured before and on days 15 and 30 after using the products. Paired t-test or its non-parametric equivalent was used to analyze the parameters after the intervention compared with baseline. The study groups were compared using one-way ANOVA or its non-parametric equivalent.
Results: The OHI-S did not change over time, and most participants had a good OHI-S. The CHX group had the most favorable, and the probiotic yogurt group had the least favorable GI. Pairwise comparisons of the groups did not reveal a significant difference in GI between the CPP-ACP gum and CHX groups (P>0.05). CHX caused the greatest improvement in PI, with significant differences with other groups.
Conclusion: CHX was the most effective for improvement of periodontal parameters followed by CPP-ACP, which showed better results compared with other groups.
The effect of cognitive-behavioral group training of self-care skills on self-care in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Kashani Lotfabadi Masoud , Bayazi Mohammad Hossein , Rajaei Ali Reza
Published: October 2021

Background & Aim: Self-care is one of the challenges of the health care system in patients with schizophrenia. It has been less studied due to these patients have no insight into the symptoms. This study aimed to determine the effect of cognitive-behavioral group training on self-care skills in patients with schizophrenia.
Methods & Materials: This single-blind randomized controlled clinical trial (blinding of data analysts) was performed on 50 hospitalized schizophrenia patients by convenience sampling method and random block allocation to the intervention (n=26) and control (n=24) groups in Ebn-Sina Psychiatric Hospital of Mashhad, Iran from late July 2020 to mid-January 2021. The intervention group received cognitive-behavioral group training of self-care skills based on Kashani Lotfabadi et al. (2020) protocol in 10 sessions (two sessions per week). The control group was placed on a waiting list. Data collection tools included the Self-Care Requisites Scale (SCRS-H) and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). The data were analyzed by SPSS 25 version, repeated measures of ANOVA test.
Results: 60 % (n=30) of participants were female, and 40% (n=20) were male with a mean age of 32.98±8.35 years. The results of repeated measures of ANOVA indicated a significant difference between the intervention and control groups in terms of descending mean score of total self-care during the test stages (p=0.001).
Conclusion: Cognitive-behavioral group training of self-care skills could promote self-care behaviors in patients with schizophrenia. Therefore, we suggest using this intervention to strengthen self-care skills in patients with schizophrenia.
Editorial – Healthcare Worker Stress and Burnout in the time of COVID-19: A Call for Action
Authors: S. A. El Sayed Ahmed
Published: October 2021

This is an Editorial and does not have an abstract. Please download the PDF or view the article HTML.
Interventional Study on Adherence to Pharmacotherapy and Drug Pattern in Elderly Patients at Civil Hospital of Badin, Pakistan
Authors: Shehnshah Muhammad , Iqbal Arain Mudassar , Ali Ghoto Muhammad , Dayo Abdullah , Shahnaz Saira , Anwar Ramesha
Published: October 2021

Background: To assess the contributing factors to adherence of pharmacotherapy and perception of elderly patients.
Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the outpatient clinic of Civil Hospital Badin, Pakistan from January to June 2019. A total of 300 samples were selected to analyze the results. A self-designed proforma (prescribing indicator form) was used for collecting data including patient demographics, diagnosis, and the current medications prescribed for each patient.
Results: Of the 300 selected participants, 221(73.7%) were male, while 79 (26.3%) were female. Majority of the subjects in the age group of 60–69 (52%) and 70–79 years (27%) followed by those aged >79 (21%). Antibiotics were prescribed to 17.2% and vitamins to 14.7%. Patients’ responses related to nonadherence factor were 92.7% for the cost, 32.7% for the long treatment duration, and 24% for the lack of knowledge. Out of the total patients, 28% were forgetful, 26.7% complained about complex therapy, 26.3% blamed financial problems, 19.7% patients had side effects, and 14.3% were negligent in taking the medication.
Conclusion: Patient conformity can be enhanced by dropping polypharmacy and simplifying complex management, use of extended formulations, rate of medications, and by creating awareness among elderly patients.
Keywords: elderly, polypharmacy, pharmacotherapy, adherence
Item Analysis of Multiple-choice Questions (MCQs): Assessment Tool For Quality Assurance Measures
Authors: Elgadal Amani H. , Mariod Abdalbasit A.
Published: October 2021

Background: Integration of assessment with education is vital and ought to be performed regularly to enhance learning. There are many assessment methods like Multiple-choice Questions, Objective Structured Clinical Examination, Objective Structured Practical Examination, etc. The selection of the appropriate method is based on the curricula blueprint and the target competencies. Although MCQs has the capacity to test students’ higher cognition, critical appraising, problem-solving, data interpretation, and testing curricular contents in a short time, there are constraints in its analysis. The authors aim to accentuate some consequential points about psychometric analysis displaying its roles, assessing its validity and reliability in discriminating the examinee’s performance, and impart some guide to the faculty members when constructing their exam questions bank.
Methods: Databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed were searched for freely accessible English articles published since 2010. Synonyms and keywords were used in the search. First, the abstracts of the articles were viewed and read to select suitable match, then full articles were perused and summarized. Finally, recapitulation of the relevant data was done to the best of the authors’ knowledge.
Results: The searched articles showed the capacity of MCQs item analysis in assessing questions’ validity, reliability, its capacity in discriminating against the examinee’s performance and correct technical flaws for question bank construction.
Conclusion: Item analysis is a statistical tool used to assess students’ performance on a test, identify underperformed items, and determine the root causes of this underperformance for improvement to ensure effective and accurate students’ competency judgment.
Keywords: assessment, difficulty index, discrimination index, distractors, MCQ item analysis
Assessment of Self-medication Practices During COVID-19 Pandemic in Hyderabad and Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Iqbal Arain Mudassar , Shahnaz Saira , Anwar Ramesha , Anwar Khurram
Published: October 2021

Background: Lack of appropriate treatment for COVID-19 infection led the general population of Pakistan toward self-medication and symptomatic treatment; almost 80% of the population collected medications for future use during pandemic. Thus, the current study aimed to assess the use of medication as symptomatic treatment preventive strategy.
Methods: This descriptive cross–sectional study was conducted on a local population of Hyderabad and Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan. The study duration was six months (April– September 2020). A total of 698 responders were selected via random sampling method. The number of participants were recruited based on 95% confidence interval with 5% margin error. Data were transferred into analysis sheet descriptively.
Results: Most participants responded to the use of different over-the-counter (OTC) products for headache. The use of antibiotics with prescription due to allergic conditions, cough, respiratory tract infections including sore throat, and urinary tract infections was also found among the majority. Few respondents had self-medication practice with sedatives due to difficulty in falling asleep, and 9.5% had self-medication practice due to pain. About 20.8% of the population agreed that lockdown was a contributing factor in the self-medication practice.
Conclusion: Pharmacists and healthcare professionals are advised to counsel the general public regarding the use of medication. A close collaboration is required at this stage to fight against COVID-19 and preventing the situation from worsening.
Keywords: self-medication, covid-19, Hyderabad, Karachi, Pakistan
Knowledge and Adherence to COVID-19 Preventive Measures: A Continental Review
Authors: Omotoso Olabode E. , Omotoso Elizabeth F. , Paimo Kehinde O. , Teibo John O. , Olagunju Abolaji O.
Published: October 2021

Background: The burden of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been on the rise since it was first reported in December 2019. COVID-19 has devastated global economy, public health, social interaction, and has claimed millions of lives globally within a few months. Due to the severe effect of some of the instituted guidelines on citizens and the economy, some of the policies in place to curtail the spread were receded. Hence, the present review aims to assess existing literature on the knowledge and adherence of Africans toward the COVID-19 preventive measures.
Methods: Studies focused on Africans’ knowledge and adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures were selected using Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed databases. Preprints that have not been peer-reviewed, reviews, and non-COVID-19 studies were excluded.
Results: All selected studies showed a satisfactory knowledge of respondents about COVID-19 but poor level of adherence to the preventive measures. Good knowledge and satisfactory level of adherence was common mostly among the clinical health workers, highly educated, and those with higher professional qualification, while poor knowledge and poor practice was observed mostly among rural dwellers, people of poor educational background, and those unable to read and write.
Conclusion: This review identified a relatively good knowledge about COVID-19 from all the studies, however, the level of adherence to preventive measures was poor. We recommend that the populace adhere to the laid guidelines to ensure the spread of the virus is curbed while also enhancing the eradication of the pandemic.
Keywords: COVID-19, adherence, knowledge, preventive measures, Africa
Evaluation of Serum Gonadotropin and Prolactin Level among Sudanese Patients with Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Fathalla Maha , Abdrabo AbdElkarim A. , Modawe GadAllah
Published: October 2021

Background: Generally, patients on hemodialysis for chronic renal failure also have endocrine defects and sexual function disorders. In this study, we aimed to assess the serum prolactin (PRL), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in patients with chronic renal failure.
Methods: This hospital-based case–control study was conducted at Jabal Aulia Teaching Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan. The study was carried out between August 2019 and February 2020. A total of 100 subjects were enrolled – 50 chronic renal failure patients and 50 as controls. The serum hormones were estimated using Tosoh 360. SPSS version 25 was used to analyze the results.
Results: The serum PRL, LH, and FSH were significantly increased among chronic renal failure patients than their healthy counterparts (p-value = 0.000). The age of patients was positive correlated with plasma hormones, PRL (r = 0.332, p = 0.001), LH (r = 0.387, p = 0.000), and FSH (r = 0.320, p = 0.001). No correlation was found between the duration of the disease and serum hormones.
Conclusion: Patients with chronic renal failure had a highly significant increase of serum PRL, LH, and FSH and also the age of the patients was positively correlated with serum hormones.
Keywords: chronic renal failure, prolactin, gonadotropin, hemodialysis
The Early Milestones of Team-based Learning: The Key is Sustained Practice
Authors: AbdulAzeem Abdullah Omer Ahmad
Published: October 2021

Background: To explore students’ perceptions of team-based learning (TBL) initial implementation in a medical school in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: This descriptive study used the validated TBL-Student Assessment Instrument (TBL-SAI) to gauge students’ perception of TBL in three subscales: accountability, preference, and satisfaction. Study participants were fourth-year students at the College of Medicine in Prince Sattam Bin Abdul Aziz University, studying a nine-week introductory surgery course in the academic year 2019–2020. Descriptive statistics using the mean scores were used to highlight the results.
Results: Thirty-three students participated in the study. While the mean scores for the three subscales were: accountability 30 (SD 6.6) (neutral score = 24), preference 43.2 (SD 10.8) (neutral score = 48), and satisfaction 25.2 (SD 8.9) (neutral score = 27), the mean of the total questionnaires’ scores was 98.4 (SD 21.8) (neutral score = 99). Students expressed a minor level of accountability, poor preference and satisfaction, and an overall low rating of TBL activities.
Conclusion: Low students’ engagement with TBL is likely attributed to their unfamiliarity with this approach and the hostility that they may experience when challenged to refrain from passive learning habits and take an active role toward their learning. Lack of the necessary skills and experience to facilitate TBL encounters and the educational climate where didactic teaching is pervasive may be other factors. Exposure to TBL may initially be associated with poor students’ perception. Perseverance, strong commitment alongside adequate institutional support are necessarily required to mitigate poor outcomes.
Keywords: active learning, passive learning, team-based learning, Saudi Arabia
Doping in Sport Dental Care Protocol
Authors: Margute Túlio Garcia , Margute Kassia Justo Coelho , Dos Santos Igor Fonseca , Mota da Silva Thiago Quirino , Rosato Andrei Rabenschlag , Ramos Santos João Paulo , Margute Tiago Garcia
Published: October 2021

Every year new formulas and substances are created to circumvent doping protection system created by WADA, companies that benefit itself working in the dark side of sport acting together with technical, nations sports committee’s, etc. With this constant situation, where renewal formulas aimed at improving the performance of athletes, it´s important that health professionals, including the dentists who treat athletes, have knowledge of doping and are up to date in this context. The objective of this study was to create an aid protocol related to doping that help dentists that work in service with amateur and professional athletes. We know the need that a dentist who cares professionals athletes must have about the medicines that causes doping and what to do when he needs to prescribe any from WADA´s list with no harm.
Left Main Disease PCI vs CABG: A Brief Review of Important Literature
Authors: Sarwar Usman , Bardia Nikky , Hussain Ali , Nadeem Muhammad , Tahir Hassan
Published: October 2021

Left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease is defined as > 50% narrowing of vessel diameter; it is the disease of significant morbidity and mortality because it supplies 75% of the left ventricle, so any insult to the left main can lead to severe LV dysfunction, sudden cardiac arrest and arrhythmia. The incidence of left main disease in patients undergoing coronary angiography is 4-6%. The untreated left main disease has mortality around 20% at 1 year [1,2].Initially, the procedure of choice for the significant left main disease was coronary artery by-pass surgery (CABG), as medical therapy carries a high mortality rate as compared to CABG (36.5% vs 16.0%). Nevertheless, with the advancement in percutaneous intervention (PCI), there is a growing interest and passion in the percutaneous intervention of LMCA [3].
European [4] and American [5] guidelines recommend CABG (class I) as the treatment method of choice for LMCA in patients with all anatomical complexities. Current European treatment guidelines give PCI class I along with CABG if SYNTAX score < 22, class IIa if between 23-32, and class III (Harm) if SYNTAX > 33. Current US guidelines currently gives class IIa recommendation for PCI if syntax score is low, class IIb for a score between 23-32 and similar to European guideline's class III (Harm) for SYNTAX score > 33. We reviewed the major landmark trials that compare PCI vs CBAG as a treatment option for left main disease along with important meta-analysis
“Association Between Serum Inﬂammatory Lipoproteins and Adhesive Capsulitis Accompanied By Diabetes-A Case Control Study”
Authors: Islam Sajeda , Alam A.F.M Mahbubul , Emran Mohammed , Hossain Mohammad Ibrahim
Published: October 2021

Background: Adhesive capsulitis is common and can cause stiffness and pain. Diabetes and dyslipidemia are known to be associated with adhesive capsulitis. However, there is no report of any association between serum lipid levels accompanied by diabetes patients.
Objective: To assess association between serum inﬂammatory lipoproteins and adhesive capsulitis accompanied by diabetes.
Methods: This is a case-control study was conducted in Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh. We investigated all the patients who visited our clinic because of their shoulder problems from January to June-2017.  Among those patients, 375 were diagnosed with adhesive capsulitis. Of these, we excluded 44 patients (11%) who had no laboratory results. Individuals with normal shoulder function (bilaterally pain-free, with full range of motion and no shoulder muscle weakness), no thyroid dysfunction, and no previously diagnosed systemic diseases. Individuals in the ﬁrst control group had neither adhesive capsulitis nor diabetes. Individuals in the second control group had newly diagnosed diabetes without adhesive capsulitis.
Results: Demographic data, serum lipid levels, and the prevalence of dyslipidemia for the 25 patients with adhesive capsulitis accompanied by diabetes and 75 individuals of two control groups were matched by age and sex. For the patients with adhesive capsulitis, the mean duration of symptoms was 5.8±2.7 months; the median interval between initial examination and blood sampling was 6.0 days (interquartile range [IQR], 1.0–8.0). Low-density lipoprotein and non HDL were associated with adhesive capsulitis accompanied by diabetes. Speciﬁcally, patients with adhesive capsulitis and diabetes had greater odds ratios of hyperlow-density lipoproteinemia when compared with individuals with neither adhesive capsulitis nor diabetes (OR, 3.19; 95% CI, 1.21–8.38; p =0.019) and when compared with individuals without adhesive capsulitis but with newly diagnosed diabetes (OR, 5.76; 95% CI, 1.67–19.83; p= 0.005). Similarly, patients with adhesive capsulitis accompanied by diabetes had greater odds ratios of hypernonhigh-density lipoproteinemia when compared with individuals with neither adhesive capsulitis nor diabetes (OR, 7.39; 95% CI, 2.72–20.09; p < 0.001) and when compared with individuals without adhesive capsulitis but with newly diagnosed diabetes (OR, 3.26; 95% CI, 1.40–7.61; p = 0.006).
Conclusions: Inﬂammatory lipoproteinemias, particularly hyperlow-density lipoproteinemia and hypernonhighdensity lipoproteinemia, are associated with adhesive capsulitis accompanied by diabetes. Further research is needed to evaluate whether inﬂammatory lipoproteinemias are a cause, a related cofactor, or an aggravating factor in the development of adhesive capsulitis in people who have diabetes.
Nutritional and Sensory Qualities of Soymilk - Kunnu Blends
Authors:   Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Akintunde Tunde , O.A Sowonola ,   Federal College of Agriculture, PMB 5029, Ibadan, F Adedeji
Published: October 2021

Kunnu, a beverage popular among the Northern Nigerians has a low protein value because it is made from cereals. This may have a negative effect on the nutritional status of the people who drink it, especially on the growth rate of infants who are given kunnu as a weaning drink. This is be cause protein is an essential component of the balanced diet required for growth. Research work carried out on the improvement of the nutritional value of cereals, shows that the fortification of carbohydrate-rich foods with protein-rich foods improves its nutritious value. As a result of this, a study was carried out to fortify kunnu with soymilk and the effect on its nutritional and sensory properties was evaluated. Kunnu and soymilk were prepared and it was fortified with soymilk in the ratio 1:1, 2: 1, 3:1 and 4:1, and the proximate composition (protein, fat, ash and moisture content), chemical composition (pH, specific gravity and sedimentation rate) and mineral content (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron content) were determined. The pH, protein and mineral content increased as the amount of soymilk added. The pH value ranged from 4.8 to 4.3, while the protein content increased from 2.35 to 2.45%. The calcium and magnesium content also increased from 0.08 to 0.15% and 0.18 to 0.29% respectively. The fat and ash content, however, decreased respectively from 2.8 to 2.0, and 0.91 to 0.891 with an increase in addition of soymilk. The proximate, chemical and mineral content were significantly different at P < 0.05 while the sensory properties were not significantly different at the same level. The sensory properties (colour, taste, texture, flavor and general acceptability) were, however, observed to decrease with the increase in fortification level of soymilk. The results obtained show that the fortification of kunnu with soymilk will result in a more nutritious beverage, but it may have a low level of acceptance with the local populace.
A Framework of Evaluating Food Security and Nutrition Monitoring Systems
Authors:   International Food Policy Research Institute, Suresh Babu , Ergeneman A.
Published: October 2021

Identifying cost and time-efficient approaches to food security and nutrition monitoring programs is fundamental to increasing the utility and sustainability. Food security and nutrition monitoring systems should be periodically evaluated to ensure that their objectives are met, and re-oriented towards the changing information needs for food policy interventions. In meeting these challenges, the role of continued evaluation of food security monitoring systems - for their impact on food security decision-making - cannot be overemphasized. The linkage between the information generated by these systems, planning and policy processes to improve food security remains weak in several sub-Saharan African countries. This paper aims at developing a framework for evaluating food security and nutrition monitoring systems. Among the criteria used for evaluation are the capacity for data processing, analysis and, reporting, timely generation of information, commitment of decision makers and cost-effectiveness. Using this framework, the paper evaluates the National Early Warning System (NEWS) and the Famine Early Warning System (FEWS) programs in Uganda, to gain useful lessons for other countries in sub-Saharan Africa. A majority of food security monitoring systems continues to be based on macro-level information and operated at the national level. Future challenges in addressing household food security will require devolution of the process of food security monitoring and intervention systems to decentralized levels. The authors also find that a sound food security and nutrition monitoring system is simple, user-driven and has the commitment of relevant decision-makers, who will use the information in planning and policy design. The paper stresses that frequent evaluation of the methods and systems of monitoring food security is essential for sustaining the commitment of decisionmakers. Also, ongoing assessments will facilitate existing monitoring systems to develop into ones that encompass the sphere of livelihood security. The use of the livelihood approach in food security monitoring in turn will support preventive and proactive solutions, rather than curative approaches to food insecurity.
Rola pracowników książki w procesie transferu kulturowego na przełomie XX/XXI wieku na przykładzie biogramów publikowanych w "Słowniku pracowników książki polskiej"
Authors: Walczak-Niewiadomska Agata
Published: October 2021

Książka jest narzędziem transferu kulturowego, pomagającym dzieciom i osobom dorosłym w różnych sytuacjach życiowych (nauka, czas wolny). Za nią stoją ludzie, wydawcy, drukarze, bibliotekarze, którzy kształtują kulturę na różnych poziomach (lokalnym, regionalnym, krajowym, międzynarodowym). Instytucje książki odgrywają znaczącą rolę w procesie transferu kultury – międzypokoleniowym i międzykulturowym. W artykule przedstawione zostały działania Pracowni Słownika pracowników książki polskiej na rzecz rejestracji biograficznej osób związanych z procesem tworzenia, rozpowszechniania oraz gromadzenia druków w Polsce.
​​Performance of Cereals under Need based Nitrogen Management Strategies: A Review
Authors: Karthik Rayapati , Dhaker Devilal , Raising L. Peace
Published: October 2021

Cereals have large nitrogen requirement, but the demand for fertilizer is variable. Divergence between the supply and requirement of nitrogen can potentially hamper the crop growth as well as the environment, resulting in poor nitrogen use efficiency leads to economic losses. A balance between supply and utilization is required to optimize crop growth, economic returns and to maintain environmental sustainability which can be solved through need based nitrogen management which is nothing but application of inputs is according to the needs of the farm. Spatial variability is present in the fields but often they receive a same dose of fertilizers because they are treated by farmers as a homogenous unit. Through need based strategies, farmers will supply nitrogen fertilizers according to the demand of the crop which reduce the losses of N fertilizer. A precision agriculture approach to address the disparate spatial N requirements across a field is the use of a variable rate application guided by crop canopy reflectance sensors. Sensors like SPAD chlorophyll meter, greenseeker, rapid SCAN etc are used for determining the nitrogen need of the field crops. Many researchers across the globe are working on standardization of these sensors for different growth stages of the crop. Precision input management in cereals is lacking at present in most of the growing areas. A good amount of information on crop nutrition is available, but information regarding need based N management is lacking. This article reviews the work done on need based nitrogen management strategies in cereals.
Characterization of 24bp Insertion Polymorphism of Prolactin Gene and its Association with Quantitative Traits in Tellicherry Native Chicken Breed
Authors: Manoharan Azhaguraja , Sankaralingam S. , Anitha P. , Chacko Binoj , Aravindakshan T.V.
Published: October 2021

Background: Over many centuries, the conventional methods of poultry breeding is based on the phenotypic selection of the birds with superior trait in a particular population. Prolactin is a physiological candidate gene that has significant effects on production traits in poultry. The objective of this study was to investigate 24 bp insertion (I) polymorphism of prolactin gene and its association with quantitative traits in Tellicherry native chicken. Methods: A total of 200 blood samples were collected from the randomly selected birds of All India Co-ordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Poultry Breeding, Mannuthy. The isolated DNA samples were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) by using specific set of primers to amplify the 24 bp insertion polymorphism. PCR amplicons were sequenced to study the polymorphism at nucleotide level. Result: PCR amplification revealed the presence of a specific DNA fragment with 130/154 bp contained 24 bp insertion polymorphism. Based on the polymorphic patterns birds were designated with three genotypes as II, ID and DD. The frequency of I (0.6975) allele was found higher than D (0.3025) allele. Our experimental results revealed that 24bp insertion polymorphism of prolactin did not have a significant association with production traits viz, age at sexual maturity, egg weight and egg number in Tellicherry native chicken.