bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DEBT SECURITY OF UKRAINE
Authors: Demianchuk Olha , Panova Olha
Published: May 2024

This study scrutinizes Ukraine’s debt security amidst internal and external challenges, including war impacts and geopolitical shifts. It dissects the escalation of national debt and its configuration, focusing on repercussions for the economy and national equilibrium. Recommendations are proposed for expediting economic growth, refining debt administration, and equilibrating the debt acquisition framework. Background: From 2009 to January 2024, Ukraine witnessed its state debt mushroom from UAH 316,884.6 million to a staggering UAH 5,154.47 billion. Notably, external liabilities constituted 64.72% of this quantum. Key Findings: The ongoing conflict and geopolitical dynamics have substantially magnified Ukraine’s debt load, casting shadows on economic steadiness and sovereign integrity. There’s an urgent call for debt administration enhancements to lighten the fiscal load and bolster sustainability. Recommendations: Propel economic advancement to boost state revenues, thus diminishing the debt-to-GDP quotient. Refine debt governance through debt portfolio restructuring and maturity prolongation. Harmonize the borrowing mix by elevating the proportion of internal debt, simultaneously diminishing external borrowing dependency. Conclusion: Upholding debt security emerges as a pivotal factor for Ukraine’s fiscal stability and national safeguarding. Through the execution of these advisories, Ukraine aims to alleviate its debt pressure, augment credit standing, and navigate towards enduring progress.
MASS MILITARY PSYCHOSIS IN CONTEMPORARY RUSSIA: THE PERFORMATIVE DIMENSION OF COUNTERMEASURES
Authors: Karpenko Zinoviia
Published: May 2024

The article examines how to counteract the mass militaristic psychosis (MMP) in modern Russia that is unfolded in discourses and narratives of the hostile media and is consistent with societal psyche intentions. The study’s purpose is to substantiate the methods (collective and individual) counteracting causes, manifestations and consequences of MMP in the aggressor country in the context of the performative approach in psychotherapy. Research methods: analysis of everyday discourse and media content to identify leading intentions of ideological influence, including observation and comparative analysis of the effectiveness of various psychotherapeutic methods, and axiopsychological reinterpretation of some psychotherapeutic practices. The results. The study revealed limited possibilities for implementing psychological education and encouraging critical thinking of the militaristic propaganda recipients. Instead, in the era of dominance of performance, when contemplation has been replaced with actions, the techniques of “emotional judo” become useful that introducing careful counterarguments to remove leaders – demagogues and dictators – from power and to apply real changes in life circumstances (primarily, to achieve Ukraine’s victory in the war). The forms of individual resistance to MMP, the imperial “rashism” ideology are derived from M. Seligman's PERMA formula. This is an axio-psychological interpretation of its emotional, intellectual, communicative and physical (acts) components. The article considers types of shaming used by political bloggers due to the total influence of Internet communications and widely spread invective practices in media content. The features of limited shaming in counter-propaganda are described. Conclusions. The antidote to MMP in the latest era of Meta-modernism means the performative exposition of its causes, manifestations and consequences to achieve real value transformation in the population affected by the imperial ideology. Axiopsychological reinterpretation of the positive psychological formula PERMA consists of the following steps: emotional rejection, reflexive criticism, value-orientation unity, reliance on a sense of dignity, defense of universal values and the will to defeat an existential enemy.
Bipolar membrane capacitive deionization for the selective capture of lithium ions from brines and conversion to lithium hydroxide
Authors: Kulkarni Tanmay , Al Dhamen Aliya Muhammad I , Zhang Xiaoliu , Chiu Chan-Wen , Zhang Hanrui , Shi Feifei , Kumar Revati , Arges Christopher
Published: May 2024

Meeting the increasing demand for lithium in vehicle electrification and renewable energy storage requires innovations in lithium-ion (Li+) separations. Traditional solar evaporation methods for lithium recovery are slow and consume tremendous volumes of water and secondary chemicals (acids and bases). This study introduces a bipolar membrane capacitive deionization (BPM-CDI) unit for direct lithium extraction (DLE) and LiOH production without the external addition of acids and bases. Utilizing de-lithiated lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) coated carbon cloth electrodes, the BPM-CDI unit demonstrates selective Li+ capture over competing ions. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and H-cell experiments elucidate pH inversion mechanisms during Li+ release, yielding LiOH. The BPM-CDI platform efficiently removes Li+ from synthetic brines featuring 8x higher Mg2+ concentrations (200 ppm Mg2+) and 26x higher Na+ concentrations (682 ppm Na+), achieving a LiOH concentration of 36 ppm after 8 cycles of recirculation. Post-mortem analysis confirms electrode integrity and stability. BPM-CDI integrated with selective electrodes is a promising electrochemical separation-reactor platform for lithium recovery while producing LiOH.
Highly Stereoselective Radical Cyclopropanation of Olefins via Cobaloxime-Based Metalloradical Catalysis
Authors: Tan Liming , Boehme McKay , Papworth Lorenzo , Wu Keyang , Li Gang
Published: May 2024

Metalloradical catalysis (MRC), predominantly exemplified by metalloporphyrin complexes, has emerged as a promising strategy for regulating radical reactions and broadening their synthetic applications. In this paper, we report that cobaloxime complexes, functioning as a surrogate for metalloporphyrin systems, can mediate radical cyclopropanation of olefins using donor/acceptor-type carbene precursor α-aryl diazoacetates through the MRC process. The reaction proceeds under mild conditions, yielding cyclopropane derivatives in good yields with high stereoselectivity. The reaction exhibits extensive substrate tolerance, encompassing gram-scale transformations and the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds. Our discoveries underscore the potential of cobaloxime-catalyzed cyclopropanation as a valuable asset in organic syntheses and further expand the repertoire of metalloradical systems in catalysis.
Computational Analysis of Fully Activated Orexin Receptor 2 Across Various Thermodynamic Ensembles with Surface Tension Monitoring
Authors: Dolezal Rafael
Published: May 2024

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations play a crucial role in understanding dynamic biological processes at nanoscale, yet predicting non-equilibrium phenomena like receptor activation presents significant challenges. In such cases, the primary objective isn't merely achieving stable MD trajectories; rather, it's imperative to remove all artificial restraints in order to unveil suppressed mechanical modes within the simulated systems, and thus advancing computer-aided drug design. In this study, we investigated the stability of the fully activated conformation of the orexin receptor 2 (OX2R) embedded in a pure 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine (POPC) bilayer using MD simulations. Various thermodynamic ensembles (i.e. NPT, NVT, NVE, NPAT, µVT and NPγT) were employed to explore the system's dynamics comprehensively. 11 physical quantities, including so called OX2R activation distance, essential protein dynamics, membrane thickness, hydrogen order parameters, and ligand-protein potential energies, across 104 MD trajectories covering 10.4 µs of chemical time were calculated and profoundly analyzed. Special attention was given to assessing surface tension within the simulation box, particularly under NPγT conditions, where 21 nominal surface tension constants were evaluated. Notably, our findings suggest that traditional thermodynamic ensembles like NPT may not adequately control physical properties of the POPC membrane, impacting the plausibility of the OX2R model. In general, the performed study underscores the importance of employing the NPγT ensemble for computational investigations of membrane-embedded receptors, as it effectively maintains zero surface tension in the simulated system. These results offer valuable insights for future research aimed at understanding receptor dynamics and designing targeted therapeutics.
Simulating Metal-Imidazole Complexes
Authors: Li Zhen , Bhowmik Subhamoy , Sagresti Luca , Brancato Guiseppe , Smith Madelyn , Benson David , Li Pengfei , Merz Kenneth
Published: May 2024

One commonly observed binding motif in metalloproteins involves the interaction between a metal ion and histidine's imidazole sidechains. Although previous imidazole-M(II) parameters established the flexibility and reliability of the 12-6-4 Lennard-Jones (LJ)-type nonbonded model by simply tuning the ligating atom’s polarizability, they have not been applied to multiple-imidazole complexes. To fill this gap, we systematically simulate multiple-imidazole complexes (ranging from one to six) for five metal ions (Co(II), Cu(II), Mn(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II)) which commonly appear in metalloproteins. Using extensive (40ns per PMF window) sampling to assemble free energy association profiles (using OPC water and standard HID imidazole charge models from AMBER) and comparing them to DFT calculations, a new set of parameters was developed to focus on energetic and geometric features of multiple-imidazole complexes. The obtained free energy profiles agree with the experimental binding free energy and DFT calculated distances. Further investigation of the simulations revealed the existence of ligand-ligand hydrogen bonds and partial π-stacking while one ligand dissociates from the complex. To validate our model, we show that we can close the thermodynamic cycle for metal-imidazole complexes with up to six imidazole molecules in the first solvation shell. Given the success in closing the thermodynamic cycles, we then used the same extended sampling method for six other metal ions (Ag(I), Ca(II), Cd(II), Cu(I), Fe(II), and Mg(II)) to obtain new parameters. Since these new parameters can reproduce the one-imidazole geometry and energy accurately, we hypothesize that they will reasonably predict the binding free energy of higher-level coordination numbers. Hence, we did not extend the analysis of these ions up to six imidazole complexes. Overall, the results shed light on metal-protein interactions by emphasizing the importance of ligand-ligand interaction and metal-π-stacking within metalloproteins.
Structure-guided discovery of orexin receptor-binding PET ligands
Authors: Distler Katharina , Maschauer Simone , Neu Eduard , Hübner Harald , Einsiedel Jürgen , Prante Olaf , Gmeiner Peter
Published: May 2024

Molecular imaging using positron emission tomography (PET) can serve as a promising tool for visualizing biological targets in the brain. Insights into the expression pattern and the in vivo imaging of the G protein-coupled orexin receptors OX1R and OX2R will further our understanding of the orexin system and its role in various physiological and pathophysiological processes. Guided by crystal structures of our lead compound JH112 and the approved hypnotic drug suvorexant bound to OX1R and OX2R, respectively, we herein describe the design and synthesis of two novel radioligands, [18F]KD23 and [18F]KD10. Key to the success of our structural modifications was a bioisosteric replacement of the triazole moiety with a fluorophenyl group. The 19F-substituted analog KD23 showed high affinity for the OX1R and selectivity over OX2R, while the high affinity ligand KD10 displayed similar Ki values for both subtypes. Radiolabeling starting from the respective pinacol ester precursors resulted in excellent radiochemical yields of 93% and 88% for [18F]KD23 and [18F]KD10, respectively, within 20 minutes. The new compounds will be useful in PET studies aimed at subtype-selective imaging of orexin receptors in brain tissue.
Consumer Bankruptcy and Unemployment Insurance
Authors: Legal Diego , Young Eric R.
Published: May 2024

We quantitatively evaluate the effects of UI on bankruptcy in an equilibrium model of labor market search and defaultable debt. First, we ask whether a standard unsecured credit model extended with labor market search and matching frictions can account for the negative correlation between UI caps and bankruptcy rates observed in the data. The model can account for this fact only if estimated with the employment rate among bankruptcy filers as a target. Not matching this employment rate underestimates the consumption smoothing benefits of UI cap increases, as the model assigns too much importance to unemployment shocks for driving default, and implies large welfare losses from increasing the cap rather than negligible gains. Second, with bankruptcy available, there are significant welfare gains from increasing the replacement rate above the calibrated value, but not in the absence of default.
Educação à distância no ensino superior: interlocução, interação e reflexão sobre a UAB na UnB
Authors: Fernandes Maria Lidia Bueno
Published: May 2024

Este livro nasce de reflexões ligadas ao tema da educação superior a distância, tendo como pano de fundo a Universidade de Brasília-UnB, mas com um olhar abrangente, identificando pesquisadores de grande prestígio nacional e internacionalmente que poderíam contribuir para que essas reflexões ganhassem maior profundidade. Assim, ancorados no aprendizado de mais de trinta anos de experiência com educação a distância e conscientes do impacto positivo que o Programa Universidade Aberta do Brasil-UAB representou para nossa instituição, fundamentados ainda na perspectiva de dar respostas aos enormes desafios referentes à educação superior a distância em um país de dimensões continentais e com contradições sociais exorbitantes, debruçamo-nos sobre alguns temas candentes dessa modalidade de ensino e realizamos, em 2011, o II Simpósio de Educação a Distância no Ensino Superior: interlocução, interação e reflexão. As discussões levadas a cabo naquele evento têm respaldado nossas ações devido à abrangência de olhares e perspectivas apresentadas naquela ocasião. Este livro não traduz integralmente todas as dimensões do debate, entretanto, aglutina os desdobramentos das reflexões em uma série de capítulos articulados, que embasam nossa atuação ante a gestão desse significativo projeto da UnB.
CrowdFunding Using Ethereum BlockChain
Authors:   Asst. Professor, Computer Science and Engineering Vemana Institute of Technology,  Bengaluru, India, Reddy Shilpa
Published: May 2024

Crowdfunding has emerged as a popular method for raising capital in various domains, providing a platform for entrepreneurs and innovators to access funds from a broad audience. This paper explores the application of Ethereum blockchain technology to enhance crowdfunding processes, emphasizing decentralization, transparency, and security. Ethereum's smart contract capabilities enable the creation of decentralized crowdfunding platforms, offering a trustless environment where contributors and project creators interact directly without relying on intermediaries. The use of Ethereum's native cryptocurrency, Ether(ETH), facilitates seamless, borderless transactions, eliminating the need for traditional banking systems and reducing transaction costs. Decentralized crowdfunding on the Ethereum blockchain enhances transparency through the immutability of transactions recorded on the blockchain. Contributors can verify the allocation offunds, ensuring that they are used as intended by the project creators.
The Influence of Hybrid Threats on the Modern National Security of Ukraine
Authors: Karamyshev Dmytro , Sobol Roman , Myrna Nadiia , Yevdokymov Vadim
Published: May 2024

The article reviews the current state of the impact of hybrid threats on modern national security in Ukraine. The concept of "hybrid threats" and important countermeasures are clearly identified. Weak points (dangers) and hybrid threats to the security of Ukraine and society at the current stage are highlighted.
Kajian Penerapan Kerja Sama Pemanfaatan Bandara Radin Inten II Lampung Dengan Pendekatan Manajemen Aset
Authors: Fithri Dadang Noor , Usman Kristianto , Kustini Ika
Published: May 2024

Dalam optimalisasi pengelolaan infrastruktur transportasi udara di Indonesia, Pemerintah melakukan perjanjian kerjasama dengan PT Angkasa Pura II (Persero) berupa Kerja Sama Pemanfaatan (KSP) Barang Milik Negara (BMN) pada UPBU Bandara Radin Inten II Lampung. Kerjasama ini bertujuan meningkatkan pelayanan Bandara Radin Inten II dalam mendukung tumbuhnya sektor perekonomian, industri, dan pariwisata di Lampung, dan serta menghemat APBN. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui mekanisme penerapan kebijakan Pemerintah atas KSP pengelolaan Bandara Radin Inten II dan manajemen pengelolaan aset atas KSP ditinjau dari aspek manajemen investasi aset. Desain pada penelitian ini berupa penelitian deskriptif dengan menggunakan teknik kualitatif dan kuantitatif. Kualitatif berupa kajian literatur atas administrasi dan mekanisme penerapan kebijakan Pemerintah atas KSP, dan kuantitatif berupa kajian manajemen investasi aset/tekno ekonomi dilihat dari indikator kelayakan yaitu NPV, BCR, IRR, dan PP. Dari hasil penelitian diketahui bentuk kerjasama pengelolaan Bandara Radin Inten II berupa Kerja Sama Pemanfaatan (KSP) selama 30 tahun. Dari KSP ini Pemerintah mendapatkan penerimaan negara berupa kontribusi tetap per tahun selama masa KSP dan pembagian keuntungan dari hasil pendapatan. Hasil analisis kelayakan indikator keuangan atas kerjasama menghasilkan NPV positif sebesar 177,8 miliar rupiah, BCR sebesar 1,284 (≥1), dan IRR sebesar 14,97% (di atas discount rate 10,97%), serta PP selama 15 tahun.
Value Engineering Pekerjaan Arsitektur pada Proyek Rumah Sakit X
Authors: Sihite Mikhael , Setiawan Theresita Herni
Published: May 2024

Dalam suatu proyek konstruksi gedung, umumnya paket kerja arsitektur memiliki biaya lebih besar dibandingkan paket pekerjaan yang lain, sehingga berpeluang untuk dapat dilakukan rekayasa nilai. Rekayasa nilai seringkali disebut juga value engineering merupakan suatu cara pendekatan kreatif dan terencana dengan tujuan mengidentifikasi dan mengefisienkan biaya-biaya. Value engineering digunakan untuk mencari alternatif yang bertujuan menghasilkan biaya yang lebih rendah dari harga yang direncanakan sebelumnya dengan tetap mengacu pada standar yang ditentukan. Pada proyek pembangunan rumah sakit X, paket kerja arsitektur memiliki biaya yang paling besar. Dengan demikian rekayasa nilai paket kerja arsitektur diterapkan dengan menggunakan metode value engineering job plan yang terdiri tahapan berikut: pengumpulan informasi, analisis fungsi, kreatif, evaluasi, dan rekomendasi. Analisis pekerjaan dinding dan pekerjaan lantai pada pekerjaan arsitektur memiliki biaya konstruksi pada pekerjaan dinding sebesar Rp 11.775.628.931,32 dan pada pekerjaan lantai sebesar Rp 4.806.411.839,30. Diperoleh simpulan penelitian pada pekerjaan dinding terjadi penghematan pada biaya konstruksi sebesar Rp 5.033.001.503,48 atau sebesar 42,74%. Dan pada pekerjaan lantai terjadi penghematan biaya konstruksi sebesar Rp 2.736.509.616,48 atau sebesar 56,93%.
Kata kunci: job plan, paket kerja arsitektur, penghematan biaya, value engineering
Assessment of the risk of venous thrombosis and embolism in operated patients with acute surgical pathology of abdominal organs against the background of COVID–19
Authors: Fedchyshyn Н. R. , Gerich G. I. , Kavka M. R.
Published: May 2024

Objective. To evaluate the risk of venous thrombosis and embolism in urgently operated patients with acute abdominal surgical pathology and coronavirus disease.
Materials and methods. The single–centre study was based on the analysis of 741 medical records of inpatients admitted to a surgery centre between April 2020 and February 2022. The study analysed 78 medical records of patients operated on for acute abdominal surgical pathology with confirmed COVID–19. 8.9% of patients died, including 5.1% from massive pulmonary embolism with the development of acute cardiovascular failure. Thromboembolic complications were diagnosed in 26.9% of patients.
Results. The scores that assessed the risk factors for venous thrombosis and embolism were determined. A score of up to 15 points corresponded to a low risk, 15–35 points to an average risk, and more than 35 points to a high risk.
Conclusions. The incidence of venous thrombosis and embolism in patients with coronavirus disease in the postoperative period in the low risk group is 8%, medium – 25%, and high – more than 40%. The real risk of thromboembolic complications is underestimated and requires consideration of the specifics of the course of coronavirus disease in patients with acute abdominal surgical pathology.
The Implementation of Psychoreligious Therapy to Overcome Drug Addiction in Santri in At-Tauhid Islamic Boarding School Semarang
Authors: Fikha Rizky Ardlillahtul , Seedat Mohamed
Published: May 2024

Drugs are one of the problems currently being faced by Indonesia. Drugs have a negative impact on the abuser both physically, psychologically and spiritually. The purpose of this research is to find out the implementation of psychoreligious therapy in dealing with drug addiction among Islamic students at the At-Tauhid Islamic Boarding School, Semarang. This study uses a qualitative approach with a type of field research research. Data collection is done by observation, interviews and documentation. By using the data analysis techniques of the Miles and Huberman model. In this analysis, there are several steps including: the data collection stage, the data reduction stage, the data presentation stage, and the conclusion stage. The results of this study indicate that the condition of a drug addict has changed after applying Psychoreligious Therapy both physically, psychologically and spiritually for students who are addicted to drugs. The methods or methods applied in Psychoreligious Therapy at the At-Tauhid Islamic Boarding School in Semarang include: dhikr, congregational prayers, bathing in repentance, fasting and prayer.
Batik Cloth and Ecosufism in Pekalongan City
Authors: Hermawan Raji , Zulfa Nadhifatuz
Published: May 2024

Pekalongan City, known as the center of world batik, presents cultural richness through the art of batik cloth. This article aims to explore the relationship between batik cloth production and the concept of ecosufism in Pekalongan, revealing how and whether local traditions can be in line with sustainability thinking in maintaining the balance of nature. This research is a literature study and exploration in the field, with data collection techniques in the form of literacy studies, field observations and documentation, while data analysis techniques use data reduction, data presentation and drawing conclusions. The results of the research: the ecosophistic behavior of the Pekalongan batik craftsmen community has begun to fade, as indicated by the existence of batik production that does not pay attention to environmental sustainability in the form of batik waste pollution in the rivers of Pekalongan city. This is in contrast to the principles in ecosufism which link a servant's close behavior and direct experience with God accompanied by maintaining ecological sustainability and preserving nature. It also contrasts with the characteristics of religious batik craftsmen. On the other hand, traditional Pekalongan batik cloth has a meaning of great spirituality, one of which is the typical Pekalongan batik motif, namely Jlamprang. Jlamprang has a symbolic meaning of the relationship between the human world and the divine world. This meaning also contrasts with the waning ecosufism of batik craftsmen. The hope is that with this research, the community, especially batik craftsmen, will be able to re-cultivate the spirit of ecosufism in producing batik cloth, thereby creating harmony in the relationship between creatures and their Khaliq, as well as the relationship between humans and the natural surroundings. In fact, humans as Allah's caliphs on earth are servants of Allah who not only have a good relationship with the Khaliq, but also have a good relationship with His creatures, including the universe created by Allah SWT.
Efficient Modified Adomian Decomposition Method for Solving Nonlinear Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Al-Mazmumy Mariam , Alyami Maryam Ahmed , Alsulami Mona , Alsulami Asrar Saleh
Published: May 2024

Based on the application of the standard Adomian method, the current paper proposes two modification approaches for the classes of the fractional differential equations and the system of fractional differential equations, which are featured through initial-value problems. Certainly, the constructed iterative schemes for the two classes are shown to be reliable, considering a number of test problems for demonstration, and upon deploying other existing numerical approaches for contrasting. In fact, the proposed schemes are found to portray less error, rapidity, accuracy and consume less computational time among others.
An Algorithm for Nonlinear Problems Based on Fixed Point Methodologies With Applications
Authors: Ma Zhenhua , Bashir Hamza , Alshejari A. A. , Ahmad Junaid , Arshad Muhammad
Published: May 2024

This research presents a highly efficient fixed point algorithm for the computation of fixed points for a very general class of nonexpansive mappings called generalized (α, β)-nonexpansive mappings within the context of uniformly convex Banach space. Our research establishes both weak and strong convergence theorems of the scheme. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the class of generalized (α, β)-nonexpansive mappings contain many classes of nonlinear mappings of the classical literature. Then, we perform various numerical computations to prove the efficiency of the proposed approach. We also study the convergence analysis of the scheme for two dimensional space with taxicab norm. Moreover, we show that our new result gives an alternative approach for solving Caputo fractional differential equation in a novel mappings setting.
EXPERTS CONDUCTED AN ECOLOGICAL EXPEDITION ON THE BALTIC SEA COASTS IN THE KALININGRAD REGION
Authors: Terleeva N. V. , Ivanov A. Yu. , Zgurovsky K. A. , Tyryshkin S. V.
Published: May 2024

In the end of August 2023 specialists of Shirshov Institute of Oceanology conducted a field ecological expedition on the coasts of the Baltic Sea in the Kaliningrad Region. Based on the results of the expedition the locations of the sewage sources were detected and characterized, and the interactive map of their discharges was updated.
THE INFLUENCE OF LOCALIZATION OF POSITIVE SST ANOMALIES IN THE EQUATORIAL PACIFIC OCEAN ON TROPOSPHERESTRATOSPHERIC DYNAMICS IN IDEALIZED MODELING
Authors: Sobaeva D. A. , Zyulyaeva Yu. A. , Gulev S. K.
Published: May 2024

The paper shows the features of the dynamics of the Arctic stratospheric polar vortex (SPV) in winter under various large-scale ocean surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the equatorial zone of the Pacific Ocean. Based on the analysis of idealized modeling data, it was shown that positive SST anomalies in the Niño 3 (canonical El Niño) and Niño 4 (El Niño Modoki) regions lead to SPV weakening of varying degrees. In the experiments, SST anomalies were increased relative to observational data. With equal amplitude of SST anomalies in experiments with boundary conditions corresponding to canonical El Niño (CEN) and El Niño Modoki (ENM), in ENM experiment the vortex is on average 50 % weaker relative to the control experiment for the winter period (November–March), and in CEN experiment, – by 40 %. Analysis of the vertical component of the wave activity showed that in the ENM experiment there is a more intense propagation of Rossby waves from the troposphere to the stratosphere, the main differences are observed in the quasi-stationary planetary wave 2. Moreover, in contrast to some modern studies, it was found that the response of the pressure field in the mid-troposphere to El Niño Modoki is similar to the response to canonical El Niño and is expressed in an intensification of the Pacific-North American Oscillation. The only difference is that in the ENM experiment the negative geopotential anomalies are shifted to the south relative to the Aleutian low, and the maximum positive anomalies are located to the west of the area where they are located in the CEN experiment.
Personalidad Grit y rendimiento anaeróbico en taekwondistas estadounidenses
Authors: Louise Laurin Lynda , Sáez Abello Guillermo Andrés , Ariza-Viviescas Andrés Mauricio
Published: May 2024

El propósito de este estudio fue evaluar la relación entre el rendimiento anaeróbico y la personalidad Grit en taekwondistas estadounidenses, su grado de influencia, así como las diferencias que puedan existir entre sexos. Este estudio tuvo una metodología cuantitativa, descriptiva-correlacional, realizada en una población de (n=121) taekwondistas, vinculados a la USAT. La personalidad Grit fue medida mediante la escala Grit, y el rendimiento anaeróbico a través de la prueba del sprint anaeróbico basado en la carrera (Rast). De acuerdo con los resultados se pudo identificar en hombres, una correlación positiva y significativa entre la capacidad y potencia anaeróbica con el Grit (p<0.005 y p<0.007 respectivamente). Asimismo, estas dos variables se relacionaron significativamente con el Grit (p<0.001) en el total de la muestra. En el caso de las mujeres, no hubo relaciones significativas. El índice de fatiga no presentó correlaciones significativas. La personalidad Grit influyó hasta un 14% en la capacidad y potencia anaeróbica en hombres (p<0.001 y p<0.002, respectivamente) y un 12% en estos dos mismos aspectos para la muestra total (p<0.000 en ambos casos). Finalmente, los hallazgos indican una relación entre la potencia, capacidad anaeróbica con la personalidad Grit en hombres y en el total de la muestra, con una influencia significativa del Grit en el rendimiento anaeróbico. No se encontraron tales relaciones en mujeres. Aunque no se hallaron diferencias significativas por sexo en el Grit, capacidad y potencia anaeróbica, sí que se encontró en el índice de fatiga, indicando una disparidad en la resistencia a la fatiga entre sexos.
Prevalence of Infertility among Young Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Authors: , Shoaibunisa , Memon Shahneela , Khatoon Firdous , Abro Kousar Jahan , Lakahn Hazoran , . Mahjabeen
Published: May 2024

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of infertility among young women trying to conceive. Most of the times due to lack of awareness, women remain undiagnosed and unable to seek treatment at young age when the success rates of conceiving are higher. Objective: To determine the true prevalence of infertile young women diagnosed with PCOS. Study Design: Prospective study. Settings: Department of Gynecology and obstetrics, Ghulam Muhammad Mahar Medical College, Sukkur Pakistan. Duration: July 2022 to June, 2023. Methods: All young women (18 years – 35 years) diagnosed as PCOS, and failure to conceive for more than 1 year were included for this study. Data were collected regarding baseline and clinical characteristics. Outcome variable was presence or absence of infertility among young women with PCOS. Results: Final analysis was performed on 124 young women diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The mean age and standard deviation was 27.84 ± 4.21 years and BMI was 25.14 ± 6.33 kg/m2. More than 80% of women were housewives (n = 101) and had lower socioeconomic background, 60.48% (n = 75). The prevalence of infertility was 62.90% (n = 78) and 37.09% (n = 46) did not have infertility. Infertility was more common among young women with higher mean age (26.34 ± 2.67 years), higher BMI (26.34 ± 2.67 kg/m2), and women addicted to chewable tobacco, p value <0.05. Conclusion: Higher infertility rate is observed among young women diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Fertility rate can be increased among such women by providing awareness regarding the disease and treatment plan.
Caroli’s Disease vs Caroli Syndrome: Clinical and Radiological Spectrum, with disease Outcome at a Teaching Hospital in Lahore
Authors: Anjum Muhammad Nadeem , Alvi Muhammad Arshad , Hamdani Syeda Sara Batool , Fatima Tehreem
Published: May 2024

Background: Caroli disease and Caroli syndrome are part of the clinical spectrum of ductal plate (DP) malformations, also referred to, as the fibrocystic liver diseases. This article aimed to study both these conditions, in terms of clinical features and disease outcome at a teaching hospital. Objective: To describe the clinical spectrum, laboratory and imaging findings, management course and outcome of fibrocystic liver diseases in children, at the University of Child Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan. Study Design: Cross-sectional Study. Settings: Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Child Health Sciences, Lahore Pakistan. Duration: January 2014 to July 2017. Methods: The study included patients with Caroli disease and Caroli Syndrome, confirmed on the basis of characteristic findings on magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. SPSS v.20 was used for statistical analysis. Results: The mean age of 15 patients included in the study was 6.54 ± 4.18 years. Among them, 7/15 (46.7%) had Caroli’s disease (CD), whereas 8/15 (53.3%) had Caroli’s syndrome (CS). Male to female ratio was 4:1. CS pre-dominantly affected male children (8:0), while CD affected both genders almost equally (4:3). CD commonly presented with recurrent cholangitis (6/7, 85%), while CS as portal hypertension (7/8, 87.5%). Renal involvement was found in 5/15(33.33%) patients; mostly in CS (4/5,80%) and one (6.66%) patient progressed to end stage renal disease. One patient of CD underwent lobectomy and one died of end stage liver disease. Two patients of CS were treated with shunt surgery with partial splenectomy. Six patients are doing well after endoscopic variceal band ligation and propranolol prophylaxis. Conclusion: Caroli disease and Caroli syndrome are two sides of the same coin; it is important to differentiate the two disorders, especially from management point of view. CS is more common in our set up, leading to portal hypertension, which can be treated with sclerotherapy, endoscopic band ligation or shunt surgery. CD leads to cholangitis, which is managed with antibiotics.
Unleashing the Potential: Apple Peel Extract as a Resilient and Future-proof Immunomodulatory Solution for Body Weight, and Organ Weight Optimization
Authors: Kamal Iram , Qayyum Muniza , Zaidi Sana Nisar , Rashid Nazia , Kanwal Fouzia , Chiragh Sadia
Published: May 2024

Background: Apple peel extract has garnered attention for its documented inhibitory effects on cancer cell growth, migration, and invasion. It has also shown intriguing correlations with two important physiological parameters: body weight and organ weight. These parameters are known to have profound implications for immune function, further highlighting the multifaceted impact of apple peel extract on overall health. Objective: The objective of this research is to investigate the immunomodulatory properties of apple peel extract in mice that have been rendered immunosuppressed by prednisolone administration. This study examines the impact of apple peel extract on the body weight, as well as the weights of the spleen and lymph nodes, in mice. Study Design: Experimental Study. Settings: Post graduate medical institute and Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore Pakistan. Duration: 1 year. Methods: 40 adult albino male mice were isolated in 5 groups. Group A (Normal control), was given distilled water only. Group B (Disease control), was given prednisolone 4mg/kg orally, once daily for 14 days. Groups C, D & E (Experimental groups), were given prednisolone along with apple peel extract at 3 separate doses: 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, orally once daily. After 14 days, mice were dissected and lymph nodes and spleen were taken out and weighed. Results: Prednisolone treated group showed a reduction in body weight & immune organs weight as compared to the normal group. Low dose treated mice showed a significant enhancement in these parameters whereas medium and high dose treated didn’t show any improvement in body weight & organ weights. Conclusion: Apple peel extract in low dose shows an improvement in body weight and immune organs weight (spleen, lymph nodes).
Comparison of Efficacy and Safety of Caffeine and Aminophylline in Apnea of Prematurity
Authors: Tabassum Arshia , Qadir Wahab , Shahzad Sohail , Rafique Arshad , Sohail Azka
Published: May 2024

Background: Apnea of prematurity usually occurs in neonates having gestational age of less than 36 weeks. Caffeine and aminophylline both drugs are available as a treatment option for apnea of prematurity. Objective: Our objective is to compare the efficacy and safety of standard recommended doses of caffeine and aminophylline in the treatment of apnea of prematurity. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial. Settings: Department of Paediatrics, Central Park Teaching Hospital, Lahore Pakistan. Duration: 12 months from May 5th, 2022 to May 4th, 2023. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the NICU Department of Central Park Teaching Hospital, Lahore which included 160 preterm neonates and efficacy and adverse effects of both drugs were compared. Results: There was a significant difference in the means of the rate of apnea of both the groups over the span of 7 days with caffeine being more effective. There was a decrease in duration of hospital stay and duration of oxygen inhalation along with reduced patients with tachycardia and tachypnea in caffeine group with significant p- value. Caffeine proved to be safer in terms of lesser side effects as compared to aminophylline. Conclusion: This study concludes that caffeine has a greater efficacy and a better safety in comparison with aminophylline, while treating apnea of prematurity.
The Extent of Beta-Thalassemia Mutations in Couples Referred for Chorionic Villus Sampling: A Collaborative Single Center Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Akhtar Muhammad Saleem , Arooj Amna , Akhter Zareen
Published: May 2024

Background: Beta Thalassemia is the most pervasive single gene disorder of hemoglobin. As thalassemia is a preventable disease, its prevention must be our priority. Prenatal diagnosis in the form of chorionic villous sampling is a very important tool for its prevention. Objective: The purpose of our study is to ascertain the results of chorionic villous sampling performed for prenatal diagnosis of couples at a risk of having thalassemia major child and to scrutinize the extent of beta thalassemia mutations in accordance with region and ethnicity. Study Design: Retrospective cross-sectional study. Settings: Patients referred at regional Centre of Punjab thalassemia prevention program (PTPP) of Sahiwal Teaching Hospital. Duration: From October, 2020 to August, 2022. Methods: After taking informed consent, chorionic villous sampling (CVS) was done of 75 women at gestational age of 11-15 weeks, referred to regional center of Punjab thalassemia prevention program of Sahiwal Teaching Hospital. Following Sops of sample taking and transportation, genetic analysis of sample was done at PTPP, Lahore. Results: The results of CVS in our study showed that 21.4% turned out to be unremarkable (no mutation detected). 58.6 % were found to have thalassemia trait/carrier while 20.0% were positive for mutation of thalassemia major. The most common mutation in our study detected in thalassemia major fetuses was Fr 8-9 (+G) followed by IVS I-5 (G-C) and Cd 30 (G-C). Although region wise distribution of mutations remained statically non-significant in our study. Conclusion: We concluded that certains mutations of thalassemia major are common in region that must be included in screening panel.
Perceived Stress and Coping Strategies among Medical Undergraduates in Pakistan
Authors: Masood Saleha , Wasti Hina , Bakhat Shaista , Noman Beenish Hussain , Riaz Mibah , Daud Erum
Published: May 2024

Background: Stress is very common and alarming problem among medical students now days. There are so many outcomes related to chronic stress like certain negative mental and physical health consequences can occur due to long standing stress. Objective: This study explores possible outcomes of the condition of stress among the medical students and their coping strategies. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Settings: All five years of medical students of Jinnah Medical and Dental College, Karachi Pakistan. Duration: This study duration was 1st January’21 to 31st December’21. Methods: This study constitutes total of 264 students whom actively get engaged in the study. As well this purposeful sample covered senior students who had already fulfilled various clinical rotations in tertiary care hospital. Among the participants semi structured interviews were conducted, in which many structured questionnaire was utilized. Results: The study revealed that about 264 out of 300 students 300 (88%) was filled in the questionnaire. Out of 264 students, 150 were females and 114 were males. Ninety-four percent of the male share physiological and emotional stress. The entire senior under graduate students belongs form fourth and a final year of Jinnah Medical and Dental College feels more stress which exceeds approximately 95%and 98% respectively. Mood swings, poor concentration and loss of temper perceived as common symptoms. Powerful stress during the academics and exams. Coping mechanisms include sports, music or hanging out with friends. Conclusion: It has been observed by the study that although student life is very much exciting and fruitful but it can also be very much affected by environmental conditions and several others challenges by others, because of its transitional duration. Apart from it there are so many challenges which the students can face practically. So there is need to consider not only the education and knowledge of medical students as well as their professional training but there is need to evaluate and enhance their quality of life during the whole tenure (in between and after medical school years for their upbringings in professional life and career growth. It has been concluded that Medical students are those pupils whom always trying and still struggling for the achievement of their goals by certain healthy and justified fruitful and healthy stress coping strategies. In this regard the substantial need for the implementation of stress management programs in order to stimulates the students’ coping capabilities.
Frequency of Co-Morbidities in Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Ahmed Umair , Shaukat Aamir , Aamir Hooria , Arif Muhammad , Ahmed Awais , Yaqoob Urwa
Published: May 2024

Background: This very contagious virus and the pandemic that resulted from its effects on human health resulted in major disruptions and has virtually interrupted every aspect of daily human life including transportation, business, education, and health care delivery worldwide. Patients of COVID-19 having various co-morbidities have worse outcomes when compared with patients without any co-morbidities. Patients with COVID-19 having history of diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, obesity, hypertension and chronic lung disorders have poor prognosis and often lead to worsening outcomes like Pneumonia & ARDS. Old patients, patients with chronic kidney disease and patients with various cancers are not only at risk for acquiring COVID-19, but there are increased chances of mortality among these patients. Objective: The objective of our study was to determine frequency of co-morbidities in patients with COVID-19 Pneumonia. Study Design: Retrospective Cross-sectional Analytical study. Settings: Isolation Wards/HDU of Allied Hospital, Faisalabad Pakistan. Duration: 06 Months from April 16, 2021 to October 15, 2021. Methods: 100 Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 according to definition and inclusion criteria were included in the study. Following demographic features of the patients admitted in Isolation wards/ HDU’s of Allied Hospital were collected: age; sex; clinical presentation; smoking history; duration between onset of disease and presentation to hospital; history of co-morbid factors like hypertension, diabetes mellitus Obesity, Cardiovascular Disease, Malignancy, history of intake of Immunosuppressive agents. Mean ± SD was calculated for the age of the patients, oxygen saturation of patients and lung involvement of patients. Frequency and percentages were calculated for the Co-Morbidities for COVID-19 pneumonia, gender of the patients, symptoms of patients. Comparative analysis of lung involvement with co-morbidities of patients was done with p value of ≤ 0.05 being considered significant. Results: Our study included 100 patients. 52 patients (52%) were males while 48 (48%) were females. Mean Age of patients was 54.91 ± 15.56 and mean oxygen saturation was 90.88 ± 5.8. Mean lung involvement of patients with COVID-19 was 30.82 ± 16.27. Fever was the commonest symptom amongst the patients included in the study (40%), followed by cough (33%) and shortness of breath (29%). Amongst the co-morbidities in patients with COVID-19, diabetes was found in 54% of the patients, followed by hypertension 34% and ischemic heart disease 6%. Conclusion: Our study concludes that individuals having underlying chronic diseases are more prone to contract COVID-19 virus and eventually develop more severe disease as compared to normal healthy persons. Thus, vaccination of this segment of society and early identification of disease among these people can help reduce morbidity and mortality.
Keywords: Co-Morbidities, COVID-19, Diabetes, Hypertension.
Socio Economic Factors Associated with Prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases Among Adults In Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmad Farhan , Anwar Sofia
Published: May 2024

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes are leading causes of global mortality and disability. Addressing the impact of NCDs aligns with sustainable development goals. Objective: The objective of this paper is to use individual data to investigate the risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among adults in Pakistan. Study Design: Questionnaire-based cross-sectional study. Settings: A sample of 376 patients was selected using a single population proportion due to a lack of data. Participants were chosen through consecutive sampling in three cities: Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Layyah Pakistan. Duration: Over 14 months. Methods: Descriptive and multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the relationship between various factors and the prevalence of specific non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Results: This study seeks to identify NCD determinants to inform effective prevention and intervention strategies. Age emerges as a primary predictor, with individuals aged 36–55 and above exhibiting higher odds of NCD prevalence than those under 35. Gender also matters, as females have a higher likelihood of NCDs. Urban living is linked to elevated NCD risk due to sedentary lifestyles. Income shows a positive association with NCD susceptibility, although it decreases at higher levels. Smoking, excessive caffeinated or carbonated drink consumption and eating out elevate NCD risk. Conversely, consuming fruits and vegetables, engaging in physical activity, and getting sufficient sleep lower susceptibility. A positive family NCD history increases the likelihood of experiencing NCDs. Conclusion: These findings underscore the need for comprehensive policy interventions to alleviate the NCD burden. Addressing modifiable risk factors like smoking and unhealthy diets is critical. Public awareness, community engagement, and regulatory measures are recommended. Collaborative efforts across sectors are essential for promoting health and preventing NCDs, while also addressing disparities and healthcare access. Overall, this study offers valuable insights for effective NCD combat strategies.