bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ACHIEVING NEW DIRECTIONS IN SECOND LANGUAGE CLASSROOM THROUGH MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES APPROACH
Authors: Nanquil Luisito Manalansan
Published: April 2022

Several classroom cases showed failure or frustration in achieving learning outcomes even if the language teachers have done their best to facilitate and evaluate learning experiences of students. It is the intention of the reviewer/researcher to analyze the book of Armstrong and assess possible insights and practices beneficial to language teachers and other educators in their quest for quality instruction. This paper reflects a lot of classroom realities, challenges, and transitions in relation to how MI approach and instructional strategies should be implemented in the language settings. Other specialties in the classroom may attempt to blend MI approach with other perspectives and practices which could enhance teaching-learning aspects or domains. If all educational centers and institutions will adopt multiple intelligences theory, learners could get the chance to explore their potentials and develop their work skills.
RATER AGREEMENT AND DISAGREEMENT IN THE MEASUREMENT OF ENGLISH ARTICLE ACQUISITION SUPPLIANCE AND ACCURACY
Authors: Upor Rose Acen
Published: April 2022

This study combines language assessment processes and interlanguage analysis techniques to determine rater agreement and disagreement in assessing English article acquisition. Employing native English speaking and non-native English speaking raters, picture sequence narratives that were written by English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners (n=97) were coded and scored for suppliance-in-obligatory context (SOC) and target-like utterance (TLU). Although the kappa statistic revealed a fair agreement between raters (0.17 – 0.33), content analysis methods revealed much higher agreement (88.29% - 94.07%). Furthermore, language background effects between the raters could not be substantiated however the results demonstrated a discernable disagreement pattern between them. Thus, the study recommends the inclusion of a foreign language teaching background as a factor for rater selection to minimize language background effects on rating language assessments.
ACOUSTIC ANALYSIS OF THE LENGTH OF /ʃ/ AND /Ʒ/ IN ENGLISH AFFRICATES
Authors: Al Abdely Ammar A. A. , Hardan Mariam S.
Published: April 2022

To participate in the ongoing debate of whether affricates are single phonemes or a combination of two distinct phonemes, this paper reports the results of an acoustic study of affricates. One of the arguments that supports one phoneme analysis is based on the assumption that the length of /ʃ/ and /Ʒ/ as single phonemes tends to be shorter when they are involved within the affricates    /ʃ/ and /Ʒ/ respectively. However, this assumption has not been acoustically investigated. Thus, this paper measures the duration of /ʃ/ and /Ʒ/: first when they are alone, and second when they are involved in affricates to identify any length variation between the two cases. The study is based on acoustic and statistical analyses of the recordings of Iraqi, British and American speakers of English, who were asked to pronounce words that have the two fricatives /ʃ/ and /Ʒ/ alone and in affricates as well. The results of paired samples t-tests showed a significant difference in the length of /ʃ/ and /Ʒ/ as single phonemes and their length when involved within affricates in the pronunciation of Iraqi, British and American speakers both on the group and the overall levels. These results support the one phoneme analysis of affricates. Moreover, the results indicated that Arab learners and Iraqis in particular count heavily on temporal cues rather than spectral cues in perceiving English sounds. This shows the need for more training on the part of learners and teachers, and more attention on the part of English textbook designers.
EVALUATING FLIPPED CLASSROOM APPROACH IN EFL STUDENTS READING CLASSES
Authors: Maharsi Ista , Wijayanti Yunita Rizky , Astari Tri Retna
Published: April 2022

This paper examines the implementation of flipped classroom approach in an EFL private university in Indonesia. It explores how this approach impacts on students reading comprehension and how students perceive the flipped classroom in their learning process. Under the mixed method design, data were collected from pre-test and post-test, classroom observations, and students reflective notes. There were 47 students in the experimental groups and 25 students in the control groups. Those 72 students from both groups took a compulsory 2-credit Intensive Reading Course in their first year in the pre-service teacher training. Both groups were taught the same reading skills and tasks comprising of the total 14 meetings for the whole semester and each meeting took 100 minutes. Results indicate that students in the traditional classrooms gained an increase in their post-test score compared to their counterpart in the flipped classrooms. This might relate with the teacher-led instructions and scaffolding which are commonly conducted in traditional classrooms where students listen to teachers explanation and students can ask directly. Other reasons arehesitation/inconvenience in using technology in learning, task-related time management, and technology-related workload. However,for many students flipped classrooms are perceived as promoting independent, responsible, active, and free learning. Both benefits and drawbacks of flipped classrooms in this context are also discussed
ERROR ANALYSIS OF INFLECTIONAL AFFIXATION IN ACADEMIC WRITING OF FRESHMAN STUDENTS
Authors: Florianus Clauvico Chesario , Syamsi Vera
Published: April 2022

Errors, defined as mistaken application of linguistic theory done by language learners, are generally seen as negative element in language learning. However, several researchers believed that error analysis can be used to understand how students process a target language. Understanding this will give insights on which areas of language the students find it difficult. Therefore, this study was conducted for this purpose. Descriptive qualitative methodology was employed to examine types of writing errors that are related to inflectional affixation performed by 8 freshman students. The errors that were identified in the students’ written language were described in linguistic and surface category. Authoritative interpretation was conducted to investigate the cause of error occurrence through interview. The study finds that the students still face difficulty in subject-verb agreement, plurals, and past participle. Furthermore, it was also found that the dominant cause of the error occurrence is interlingual factors, negative transfer from their first language.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE READING ANXIETY AMONG THEOLOGY DEPARTMENT STUDENTS: CONTRIBUTING FACTORS AND ALLEVIATING STRATEGIES
Authors: Limeranto Jeane Theresia , Subekti Adaninggar Septi
Published: April 2022

The study investigated factors contributing to English for Theology students’ Foreign Language Reading Anxiety (FLRA) and their strategies to alleviate it. This study was the continuation of a quantitative study involving 63 Theology student participants which found that their FLRA was significantly correlated with their reading achievement negatively. It was also conducted to fill the void in the FLRA literature in the Indonesian university context especially in Theology department necessitating learners to read a lot of passages in English, possibly quite anxiety-provoking for learners. Four selected participants from the previous quantitative study were interviewed and the data were analysed using Thematic Analysis. The study found that low self-confidence, lack of peer support, low self-perceived language competence, low motivation, and unfamiliar vocabulary increased learners' FLRA. Teachers' various methods, emphasising group activities were found to reduce their FLRA whilst whole-class reading activities tended to increase their FLRA. Furthermore, the uses of various reading strategies taught in class to comprehend texts were reported to reduce their FLRA to a certain extent depending on the degree of success of learners in using the strategies. Implications, limitations, and suggested directions for future studies were mentioned in light of the study's findings.
PROCEDURAL ESSAY WRITING: STUDENTS’ PROBLEMS AND STRATEGIES
Authors: Ambarwati Septina , Listyani Listyani
Published: April 2022

Language learners living in the expanding circle certainly face probems that may not be encountered by their counterparts in the inner or outer circle. One of the problems these learners face is in the field of writing. They also need special strategies in overcoming these problems. This study was done to investigate the problems faced by students in writing Procedural Essays as well as the strategies to overcome the problems. This study attempted to answer two research questions: What problems do students face in writing Procedural Essays? and What are students' strategies to overcome the problems in writing Procedural Essays? This study used a qualitative method. To collect the data, the researchers used two instruments, which are open-ended and close-ended questionnaires and interviews. The participants of this research were 27 students from batch 2020 who took Procedural Writing Class in the 2020/2021 Academic Year. The results of this research showed that there were three problems faced by students in writing Procedural Essays. Those problems were problems of topic development, problems with vocabulary, and problems with grammar. The result also indicated the most strategies used by students to overcome the problems, such as receiving feedback from teachers, making an outline, and asking friends for help.
BOOK REVIEW: DEVELOPING COLLABORATIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT USING LEARNER-CENTERED STRATEGIES
Authors: Nanquil Luisito Manalansan
Published: April 2022

To be a competent, dynamic, and effective teacher needs a lot of evaluation and reflection. A product of this thought should be learning outcomes that demonstrate mastery, fluency, and achievement of the learners, who are the main focus of teaching and learning. This paper aims to examine the book authored by Rollins by connecting the observations and experiences of the reviewer to the points, theories, and practices tackled by the author in her book. It is the hope of teachers around the globe to offer collaborative learning environment that will cater to the needs and diversities of learners.
MULTIMEDIA-BASED PRESENTATION AND SELF-CONFIDENCE ANALYSIS: A QUANTITATIVE STUDY ON ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING OF VOCATIONAL COLLEGE STUDENTS
Authors: Indrayanti Iin
Published: April 2022

Technology using multimedia assistance is expected to be able to boost some changes both in the classroom atmosphere in general and individual in particular either cognitive (learning outcomes) or affective (learning attitudes). One of learning media that is well-known among users in education is multimedia presentations or Power Point which combine text, graphics, images, photos, audio, videos, and animation in an integrated manner. One of learning tools featuring those conveniences is Genially. The current study was preliminary in nature regarding the use of Genially online media presentation and to investigate with respect its influence on self-confidence among male and female students. The study focused on one skill of language in delivering selected topic or idea using English. Using a quantitative approach, this study involved 62 students consisting of 42 males and 20 females of sophomore students from one vocational college in a small city in Indonesia. To determine level of self-confidence, students were given a questionnaire responding 12 statements in 4 answer scales. Output of One Way Anova and regression test calculation showed that the use of PowerPoint Genially influenced self-confidence for both genders. Even though this media was capable to lead more pleasant and enjoyable learning atmosphere, the influence performed by the variables was considered less significant. This means that students still feel less confident to use oral English in delivering selected topics to their friends in the class.
Emergency preventing system at production technological objects based on situational mathematical model
Authors: Antonov Oleg Victorivich , Raykova Elena Fedorovna , Muratov Robert Eduardovich
Published: April 2022

The main criterion characterizing the efficiency of the equipment of an industrial facility is its operation without failures and damages. To reduce the emergency rate, there has been proposed an emergency prevention system targeted at identifying the technological situation at the facility, predicting its further development, and also de-veloping the control actions to return the facility to normal operation. The task of identifying pre-emergency and emergency situations for technological objects is realized as a particular task of recognizing a technological situation based on a situational mathematical model of an object. The situational mathematical model of the object is implemented as a set of production rules that reflect the knowledge of experts about the identification of pre-emergency situations at the object, as well as possible trajectories for bringing the control object into normal operation. A three-level grouping of the rules of the situational mathematical model by security levels is proposed. The features of the formation of the rules of the situational mathematical model in the processing of qualitative information about the object are considered. Based on the situational mathematical model, a method for identifying pre-emergency situations is proposed, the stages of the method implementation are described. An algorithm of functioning the emergency prevention system has been developed. The interaction scheme of the proposed emergency prevention system and the process control system based on the SCADA system is determined. The use of the proposed system will improve the safety and stability of the operation of hazardous technological facilities
Applying artificial intelligence methods for solving problems of searching for semantic associates: case of toponym Moskva
Authors: Borovsky Andrei Viktorovich , Rakovskaya Elena Evgenievna
Published: April 2022

Actual problems of toponymy imply the study of individual words in order to restore the conceptual meaning of geographical names lost, to find out how they reflected the characteristic features of the terrain, the type of ac-tivity of the people inhabiting it, etc. The purpose of the study is to determine the origin of the toponym Moskva by using artificial intelligence methods. The GeoWAC fastText embedding model based on the corpus of Russian-language texts of the RusVecteres service is used to calculate semantic similarity between words. The model assumes defining the semantic associates of toponyms by using the vector representation of words in the semantic space and finding the lexical vectors most closely located to the vector of the original word. To analyze a toponym there is applied a methods of semantic associates, a cluster analysis, a combined method based on the method of transformation of a word with a lost meaning and the analysis of semantic associates for a set of word transformants. The method is formalized by using a model that determines the similarity of the studied word and associates based on different versions of the model for one or more text corpora. The associated words obtained by the artificial intelligence are considered as a semantic cluster, and the calculated cosine similarity between vectors is considered as a measure of the similarity of elements in the cluster. To identify various hypotheses of the origin of the toponym Moskva there has been carried out a cluster analysis of the totality of the first ten vector associates for all transformants of this word. As a result, four hypotheses were advanced: “a famous man”, “firearms”, “beekeeping”, “blood-sucking insects”. The probabilities of the occurrence of these hypotheses are based on the study of the frequency of words in the corpus

of the language. The main hypothesis is a “famous person”.
Numerical-analytical transformation method of analyzing nonlinear mathematical models with polynomial structure
Authors: Ivanov Sergei , Televnoy Andrey
Published: April 2022

The article considers a scientific problem of investigating mathematical models with polynomial nonlinearity, which are represented by systems of nonlinear differential equations. There is presented a numericall-analytical transformation method for investigating nonlinear dynamical systems with many degrees of freedom of polynomial structure. As opposed to the analogues, this method allows solving a wide range of problems for nonlinear systems

of general polynomial structure while reducing the computational resource intensity. An algorithm of the method

of transformations for investigating the nonlinear dynamic systems with m degrees of freedom is given. The research of stability of solutions of nonlinear dynamic systems with m degrees of freedom is carried out. Algorithmic formulas of transformation method for the solution of systems with nonlinearity of the fourth degree are given. Computational experiments on solving systems of differential equations with a small nonlinear part in the form of a multinomial

of the sixth degree using the transformation method show fourth order accuracy in computation. A nonlinear mathematical model of the vibration protection system is investigated by the presented method of transformations. The theorem on determination of the stationary state for systems of differential equations of polynomial structure by transformation method is proved. Algorithmic formulas for computation are presented. A general matrix form for vector indices is presented. Formulas for economical computation of right-hand sides of polynomial structure are presented and it is proposed to apply Pan's scheme with coefficient preprocessing. This method allows studying the different modes

of nonlinear models dynamics, for example, to determine such extreme modes as resonance, sub-harmonic, and polyharmonic modes. As an example of the method application, the vibration protection problem of the tower from external periodic influences was solved. The transformed solution takes into account all nonlinear polynomial components. The method allows to investigate the dynamics of a wide range of nonlinear systems with the necessary accuracy
Information and telecommunication resources of critical infrastructures: features of interval security analysis
Authors: Kotenko Igor Vitalievich , Parashchuk Igor Borisovich
Published: April 2022

The object of the research is a new methodological approach to solving the problem of interval analysis

of the security of information and telecommunication resources of critical infrastructures. This approach is one of the variants of practising the methods of the class midvalues (interval calculations). The approach characteristics were analyzed to determine its validity and usefulness for assessing the security indicators of such complex technical systems over a time interval. There have been considered theoretical aspects of building the algorithms for calculating the class midvalues of security levels of information and telecommunication resources of critical infrastructures, factors of calculating the upper and lower class midvalues of security levels. A sequence of calculations and analytical expressions for calculations on the example of a specific security indicator are proposed. The approach offers taking into account the modern requirements of security management subsystems of complex technical systems, the requirements of officials (auditors, security administrators) related to the inertia of decision-making processes, with the duration of cycles of security control and security management of systems of this class. It allows one to obtain not point (instantaneous), but interval estimates of security indicators, while the analysis is carried out with a predetermined frequency and takes into account the uncertainty of the initial data – observed and controlled security indicators. At the same time, interval analysis does not have great mathematical and computational complexity, but it allows one to obtain interval estimates of resource security adequate to control and management tasks, saves computing resources and, ultimately, works

to increase the reliability of security control of modern critical infrastructures
The UK Productivity “Puzzle” in an International Comparative Perspective
Authors:   INSEAD, Fernald John ,   Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Inklaar Robert ,   University of Groningen
Published: April 2022

The UK’s slow productivity growth since 2007 has been referred to as a “puzzle”, as if it were a particularly UK-specific challenge. In this paper, we highlight how the United States and northern Europe experienced very similar slowdowns. The common slowdown in productivity growth was a slowdown in total factor productivity (TFP) growth; we find little evidence that capital deepening was an important independent factor. From a conditional-convergence perspective, most of the UK slowdown follows from the slowdown at the U.S. frontier. From the mid-1980s to 2007, the UK’s relative productivity level moved closer to the level of the U.S. and northern Europe, driven by essentially complete convergence in market services TFP. In contrast, manufacturing lost ground relative to the U.S. frontier prior to 2007, and remains far below the frontier. The relative ground lost after 2007 is modest—cumulating to about 4 percentage points—and is largely attributable to somewhat unfavorable industry weights and industry-specific issues in mining, rather than a systematic UK competitiveness problem.
Sex differences in factors associated with prediabetes in Korean adults
Authors: Ra Jin Suk
Published: April 2022

Objectives: Identifying the factors associated with prediabetes is necessary for the early detection and management of high-risk individuals with prediabetes. The purpose of this study was to identify the factors associated with prediabetes according to sex in Korean adults.Methods: Using the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2015 to 2019, a total of 13,595 adults (5,565 males and 8,030 females) aged ≥20 years were included in the data analysis. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with prediabetes according to sex in Korean adults.Results: In both males and females, age and a family history of type 2 diabetes were associated with prediabetes. In males, current and past smoking habits were associated with increased prediabetes. In addition, low-intensity physical activity was associated with a higher prevalence of prediabetes, while prolonged sedentary behavior was associated with a lower prevalence of prediabetes. Females with a lower education level (less than middle school graduation) showed a higher risk of prediabetes.Conclusion: Sex-specific prevention strategies for prediabetes should be developed. In addition, older individuals and those with a family history of type 2 diabetes should be screened for prediabetes.
Ordenamiento territorial y expansión urbana a través de la incorporación de usos habitacionales en la ciudad de Culiacán
Authors:   , Esquivel Medina Ingrid Citlalli
Published: April 2022

En las últimas décadas, el crecimiento de las ciudades en México se ha caracterizado por el emplazamiento de la vivienda hacia las periferias. Tal característica expresa la forma paralela, no necesariamente coherente, como se llevan a cabo los instrumentos para el ordenamiento territorial, la producción de vivienda y la política ambiental. El artículo 27 constitucional define la función social señalando que “la nación tiene la facultad para imponer a la propiedad las modalidades que dicte el interés público” misma que se ejerce a través de planes y programas de desarrollo urbano. Sin embargo, los instrumentos para el ordenamiento territorial, no han tenido el efecto esperado en cuanto a garantizar la función social del suelo, y en cambio, han sido un reflejo de las acciones de los principales agentes de la producción habitacional. La presente investigación consta de cuatro capítulos en los que se evalúa la eficacia de los instrumentos del ordenamiento territorial para garantizar la función social del suelo y su relación con la producción de vivienda en la periferia. Se sostiene la premisa de que el ordenamiento territorial no dirige el desarrollo de la ciudad, sino que hace representaciones de ésta, legitimando lo que ya sucede en terreno. El área de estudio comprende el municipio de Culiacán, particularmente la cabecera municipal, en donde se usa como referente la normatividad urbana de las últimas tres décadas, así como algunos antecedentes. Dentro de la metodología se documentó lo establecido en dichos instrumentos y se hizo un análisis cartográfico de los usos planificados y la expansión urbana real, identificando los usos previos, así como su relación con las afectaciones ambientales y desastres hidrometeorológicos. Posteriormente se caracterizaron las principales formas de urbanización habitacional, y los principales agentes involucrados en ellas.
Determination of Work Index of Muro Iron Ore Using Marble and Granite as Reference Ores
Authors:   Department of Mineral & Petroleum Resources Engineering, Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria., Nenuwa OB
Published: April 2022

The work index of Muro iron ore was determined using the modified Bond’s method also known as Berry and Bruce method. This study used iron ore obtained from Muro town, a community in Toto LGA, Nasarawa state as the test ore. Marble and Granite which was separately used as the reference ores were obtained from Muro environs. 100 g each of the test ore and the reference ores were subjected to the same grinding conditions in a ball mill. Size analysis of the feed to the ball mill and the product of the ball mill for both test ore and reference ores were carried out and the results tabulated accordingly. The 80% passing particle size of the ball mill feed and discharge for the samples were calculated using the Gaudian Schumann expression. The Bond’s equation was then used to calculate the work index of the Muro iron ore which was found to be 24.84 kWh/ t when marble was used as reference ore and 27.41 kWh/ t when granite was used as reference ore. The average work index of Muro iron ore was calculated as 26.13 kWh/ t, while the energy requirement for grinding the ore was found to be 3.62 kWh/ t. The value of the work index of Muro iron ore is within the limit of work index of iron ore quoted in literatures
An Investigation about the Natural Precursors of Disasters
Authors:   Doctoral Student, Department of Physics, Mahatma Gandhi College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India & Assistant Professor in Physics, St Thomas College, Kozhenchery, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India., SS Praveen
Published: April 2022

Natural disasters were a matter of things which were happening on the other side of the globe or planet especially for the people in Kerala. But disasters starting from 2004 Tsunami, 2017 Ockhi and 2018 floods exposed our vulnerabilities. Just before these disasters there were certain indications by the nature called as natural precursors. But the coastal community was not at all aware of such things and it contributed to the intensity of casualty. This paper is an attempt to identify and showcase those natural precursors during the event of above mentioned natural disasters which happened in Kerala and Tamilnadu. The investigation highlights the need for creating awareness about these kind of precursors especially among the coastal community. This investigation mentions several different, occurred precursors and briefly mentions about the science behind these precursors and urges the need for an in-depth scientific analysis incorporating large samples of heterogeneous nature, physical modelling and numerical modelling for unraveling the causative factors behind this. In-depth understanding about these kinds of precursors should be carried out and it should be backed with scientific evidence. The investigation recommends effective use of both official warnings and natural precursors for accelerating the mitigation activities prior to a disaster.
Pokhara-Butwal Expressway for Socio-Economic Benefits
Authors:   Visiting Faculty, Lalitpur Engineering College, Tribhuvan University, Nepal., Bhattarai Subash Kumar
Published: April 2022

Among the various tourist destination of Small world Nepal, Pokhara and Lumbini are the two most visited places by people, inside as well as outside the country. Pokhara, the beauty of Nepal serves as the capital of Gandaki Province. Pokhara is also considered as the tourism capital in Nepal. Within 30 kilometers (19 miles), the elevation rises from 850 to 7,500 meters. Among the total tourist entering Nepal, more than 20% of them visit PokharaLumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha is a Buddhist pilgrimage site in Rupandehi District of Province - 5. Lumbini has several ancient temples, including the Mayadevi Temple and various new temples, funded by Buddhist organizations from various countries. Most of them have been completed while others are still under construction, which has been encouraging pilgrimage tourism in Nepal. Siddhartha highway connects Mahendra highway at Butwal with a total length of 181 m. It connects Pokhara and Lumbini. The road remains in such a terrible condition that even light vehicles cannot ply on it. Drivers have a hard time operating public buses on the route, as the potholes are so large that they have almost reduced the highway into a one-lane road.At present the travel time from Pokhara to Butwal through Siddhartha Highway is 6 hours with high number of bends increasing the chances of accidents on the road. There have been many cases of vehicles colliding and off-tracking from the road towards the river. To minimize the travel time as well as the distance of travel, we came up with an idea of “Pokhara - Butwal Expressway”.
Diagnosis and management of obstructive urolithiasis in miniature pigs
Authors: Simpson Katharine M. , Oman Rachel E. , Depenbrock Sarah M.
Published: April 2022

This article provides information to assist practitioners in the diagnosis, medical, and surgical management of obstructive urolithiasis in miniature pigs. The article focuses primarily on pigs managed as pets because production swine rarely undergo intensive treatment for urolithiasis. As much as possible, the information in this article is based on published literature, but given the limited number of publications addressing obstructive urolithiasis in pigs, some information is based on the authors’ clinical experience. Medical and surgical management of obstructive urolithiasis of pigs is often similar to management in ruminant and small animal species, but differences in swine anatomy, handling, and temperament create unique challenges. Pigs tend to be more difficult to restrain and examine than other livestock and often require heavy sedation or anesthesia to facilitate physical examination and basic diagnostic procedures. Because pigs are monogastrics, some oral treatments used in small animals may be used effectively in pigs. Clinicians should follow AMDUCA and consult the Food Animal Residue Avoidance Databank prior to extralabel drug use because pet pigs are still considered a major food-producing species in the United States.
Direct Fixation of Fractures of the Posterior Malleolus Through a Postero-Medial Approach
Authors: Andonov Y. , Parashkevova P.
Published: April 2022

Background and objective: Fractures of the posterior malleolus have long been neglected in the past. The decision for their fixation should be based on plain lateral radiographs. Recent studies have emphasized the important biomechanical function of the posterior tibial ridge. This has caused a trend towards more aggressive surgical treatment. The aim of this study was to present our experience with the direct fixation of complex ankle fractures engaging the posterior malleolus. We also tried to clarify the advantages and limitations of the posterior-medial surgical approach.

Materials and Methods: For a period of 1,5 years we have operated 14 patients with posterior malleolus fractures. Their average age was 51 years. Eight of the patients were male, the rest 6 were females. Fractures were classified according to Bartoníček classification system. All patients had type 3 fractures. Direct open reduction was performed in all cases. Posterior buttress plate was used for the fixation of the fracture. Bone grafting was found necessary in one case. Functional assessment was done according to the criteria of the AOFAS (American Orthopedic Foot and ankle score). Follow up was done for an average period of 10 months.

Results: All fractures united for an average period of 9 weeks (8-10 weeks). Six patients achieved an excellent functional result, 5 – a good one and 3 had an average result. The average AOFAS rating score was 84,02 (54-100). The average range of motion was 38° (15°-50°). There were no deep infections or septic arthritis. Three ankles had superficial skin necrosis that healed without any additional procedures. One patient had prolonged and substantial swelling of the leg, despite of the routine antithrombotic prophylaxis. Five patients needed their fibular plates removed due to local irritation.

Conclusion: The direct reduction and fixation of the posterior malleolus fractures allow anatomical restoration of the ankle mortise. This is a prerequisite for an optimal functional recovery and appears to be a safe treatment strategy.
Comparative Evaluation of the Content of Antioxidant Polyphenolic Compounds in Selected Bulgarian Medicinal Plants
Authors: Tsanova-Savova S. , Velikov S. , Paneva S. , Koleva P. , Nikolchova P. , Etugov D. , Savova Z.
Published: April 2022

Polyphenols are strong antioxidants of plant origin that exhibit protective role against the development of several chronic degenerative diseases. Quantitative data on the content of polyphenolic antioxidants in Bulgarian medicinal plants are sporadic and unsystematic.

The aim of the study is to determine polyphenols content in series of extracts, infusions and decocts of selected Bulgarian medicinal plants and fruits and to compare their polyphenolic profile.

Materials and Methods: In the present study 18 Bulgarian medicinal plants and fruits have been analyzed for Total Phenolic and Total Flavonoids content, along with HPLC analysis for their level of the individual flavonoids (+)-Catechin, (-)-Epicatechin and Rutin. Comparative evaluation of the content of antioxidant polyphenolic compounds was performed by hierarchical cluster analysis.

The results show that infusions of Hawthorn (Crategus monogyna) flowers have the highest values of Total Phenolic and Total Flavonoids content, forming a separate Cluster in the analysis of the Agglomeration schedule coefficients. Within fruits, data for Total Phenolics and Total Flavonoids content are more homogenic as the cluster analysis shows distribution of 6 elements in a high mean value group. Elderberry (Sambicus nigra) flowers and fruits are the richest source of Rutin in the selected plants studied.

Conclusion: In the present study new data for polyphenolic content in selected Bulgarian medicinal plants and fruits are presented and their degree of similarity in methanolic extracts, infusions and decocts have been assessed in order to provide new data for development of effective antioxidant medicinal plant compositions.
Three Cases of Encephalopathy / Disseminated Encephalomyelitis in SARS-COV-2 Infection
Authors: Metodiev D. , Toshev Y. , Anachkov K. , Sarbyanova N. , Nachev S.
Published: April 2022

Аs many other viral pandemics, the current SARS-CoV-2 is also characterized by nervous system involvement, mainly in elderly patients with comorbidities. Recent scientific reports indicate that involvement of the nervous system is manifested by a variety of clinical symptoms related to the severity and extent of brain damage. Encephalopathy, encephalitis and polyneuritis are among the complications reported in patients with SARSCoV- 2. These complications have been morphologically proven. As an immune-privileged structure, neural tissue is particularly vulnerable to autoimmune attacks. Therefore, various neurological diseases such as MS, Guillain-Barre syndrome, as well as autoimmune encephalitis and psychosis have also been reported in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Herein, we present three cases of patients who died after infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. We emphasize on the pathomorphological changes found in a detailed study of the brain and cervical spine. The analysis of the inflammatory findings, mainly manifested by perivenous lymphocytic infiltrates, serodiapedesis and erythrocyte depots around the vessels, showed a presence of initial demyelination (in two of the cases). The blood supply of most venous vessels with different size and a pronounced “sludge” phenomenon were the most impressive findings, as in some sections these changes were demonstrated by a presence of thrombosis. Inflammatory manifestations were also observed in the brainstem near to the stem nuclei. The SARS-CoV-2 virus induces a variety of immune system responses. In some patients there is a negligible or no reaction, while in others there is a “cytokine storm” with a system damage of multiple organs – often including the brain.
Long COVID-19 Syndrome: Multiorgan Damage and Recommendations for Follow-Up and Rehabilitation
Authors: Cherneva R. , Cherneva Zh.
Published: April 2022

The majority of the SARS-CoV-2 infected patients fully recover within a few weeks. However, a significant proportion of them, independently of their age, still have multi-organ damage, similar to that during the acute phase of infection, or symptoms for a longer term afte r recovery. “Postacute-COVID-19 (Long COVID-19 Syndrome)” is a term used for COVID-19 patients who are still symptomatic 4 and 12 weeks after the onset of acute symptoms and “Post-COVID-19-syndrome” ‒ for those with symptoms for longer than 12 weeks after the onset of acute symptoms. The severity of the initial infection does not correlate with the probability for and with the severity of long-term symptoms. This review comments on the multiorgan effects of Long COVID-19 Syndrome: respiratory, cardiovascular, hematological, renal, gastrointestinal, neurological, and metabolic ones. Recommendations for follow-up and rehabilitation for the recovery of Long COVID-19 Syndrome patients are discussed in detail.
Controversy: Critical Review of the Stich Trial and Assessment of Viability. “Back to the Future” Or Maybe Not
Authors: Grigorov V. , Grigorov E.
Published: April 2022

The management of patients with coronary artery disease and heart failure has been debated for years. In the 1980’s Braunwald coined the words “viability” and “stunning”. Multiple trials have been done since then. Since the early eighties coronary bypass grafting was considered as gold standard for patients with impaired left ventricular fraction and coronary artery disease. Since then, nuclear imaging studies have been used to evaluate the “viability” of the impaired areas and to decide if revascularisation would be reasonable. Beginning with the CASS study and ending with the more recent STICH study we aim to provide a “bird’s eye view” of the pros and cons for revascularisation. In addition, we aim to shed some light on the daily advancements in medical management, including devices and not just medication. We therefore chose the title “Back to the future” or maybe not.
Geomorphology of the Beqaa Valley, Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon Mountains
Authors: Lemenkova Polina
Published: April 2022

Geomorphology of Lebanon presents a unique pattern of contrasting landforms. These include two notable mountain ranges, the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon Mountains, the Beqaa Valley, the elongated coastal area and a significant amount of karst relief forms. This study focuses on the investigation of the topographic and geologic setting of Lebanon by visualizing datasets covering Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountains and the Beqaa Valley. Data were collected using the open source repositories of the high-resolution data (GEBCO, ETOPO1, DEM embedded in R). Three 3D models of the relief of the country are presented based on the ‘grdview’ package of GMT with azimuth rotations of the view point at 205°/30° and 165°/30°. The geologic map is based on the compiled datasets of the USGS. The R based modelling allowed division of the raster grid into several geomorphological zones according to the slope steepness and aspect orientation. The extreme elevations of the study area range from -2007 m and 2973 m. The key contribution of this work is the topographic and geologic data synthesis for 2D and 3D modelling of Lebanon. Another aspect concerns technical integration of GMT and R scripting approaches with QGIS mapping into the cartographic framework for visualizing of the Lebanese topography as a multi-tool approach. For the future similar studies on Lebanon this paper can serve as a guide for completing a project on the multi-source 2D and 3D data mapping as a conceptual foundation for research on Lebanese environment.
An ontological model to support citizen science in the field of invasive species research
Authors: Milchev Radoslav , Milchev Galin , Tomov Rumen
Published: April 2022

Advances in information technology developments have led to improved ways and means of sharing information and good practices in various areas of social development. Providing the necessary tools enables Citizen Sciences (CS) to play an important role in raising awareness and engaging various stakeholders in the prevention of invasive alien species (IAS). In Bulgaria, up until this point, it is poorly developed, and this is largely due to the lack of information to the general public regarding the categorization of species, pathways of introduction and their negative impact. The article examines the possibilities for introduction and use of an advanced ontological model in the area of invasive alien species research, which will aid the process of involving a wide range of stakeholders in various initiatives that will contribute to preventing the introduction and spread of IAS. The researched approach using the advantages of modern information and communication technologies includes acquaintance with the basic concepts in the area of IAS, the processes related to their introduction and spread, as well as taking into account the existing interrelationships, which would provide opportunities for early detection and the rapid eradication of IAS. The developed model will also be applied to measures and policies put in place to change the attitudes of the general public to the problem of IAS.
Antimicrobial drug resistance against the background of the COVID-19 pandemic in Bulgaria and Europe: A profound review of the available literature sources
Authors: Mihaylova Yordanka , Stamova Sylvia , Georgieva Emilia , Ermenlieva Neli , Beyti Berna
Published: April 2022

Improper use of antibiotics is an extremely worrying trend worldwide. This leads to the development of resistance to these drugs. As a result, antibiotics stop working and bacteria continue to grow. The highest levels of resistance, both in our country and worldwide, are to second and third-generation cephalosporins, some aminoglycosides, and others. The reason is that these antibiotics have been used most irrationally over the years. The pandemic of COVID-19 and Antimicrobial drug resistance (AMR) are parallel and interrelated serious health situations, between which there is a causal link, manifested in high mortality among the human population. This review highlights relations between growth rates of antimicrobial resistance and the Covid-19 pandemic situations in Bulgaria and Europe in this fast-growing research area.
Short peptide analogs of LfcinB synthesized by Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis as an alternative to global microbial resistance
Authors: Georgieva Dimana Dimitrova
Published: April 2022

Antibiotics are the main therapy in the treatment of infections caused by pathogenic bacteria. Their frequent and prolonged use leads to the development and spread of resistant microorganisms. According to the WHO, there is a worrying increase in global resistance to conventional antimicrobial therapy. This in turn poses a serious risk to public health and requires the search for an alternative to traditional pathogen therapy. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are of great interest in this regard. They are produced naturally in all living organisms and are the first line of defense against fungi, viruses and bacteria. An example ofAMP with proven antimicrobial action are lactoferricins. They are cationic amphipathic peptides and have been found in both humans (LfcinH) and other mammals (cattle (LfcinB), mice (LfcinM) and goats (LfcinC). The most powerful antibacterial effect among them shows LfcinB. Using SPPS methods, short peptide molecules were obtained, analogs of LfcinB, which show a stronger antibacterial effect compared to the native peptide. In recent years, lactoferricins have been the subject of a number of scientific studies and represent a potential alternative for the development of new therapies to combat antimicrobial drug resistance.
Seidenfia manikathila (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae, Malaxideae), a new species from south Western Ghats, India
Authors: Mathew Jose , Pichan Salim , Madhavan Radhamany , Sarojini Usha Soman , Madhusudhanan Karadka , Szlachetko Dariusz L.
Published: April 2022

Seidenfia manikathila J.Mathew, P.M. Salim & Szlach. (Orchidaceae), a new species from the southern Western Ghats, Kerala, India, is described and illustrated based on morphological data. We demonstrate that the new species differs from other Seidenfia species both in vegetative and floral characters. The diagnostic morphological characters, distribution and images of the new species are presented in this paper. Images and key to the known species of Seidenfia coming under the section Seidenfia from India (S. densiflora, S. intermedia, S. malabarica, S. rheedi, S. versicolor) is also provided.
Trend Analysis of Water Quality Parameters in the Middle Part of the Danube Flow in Serbia
Authors: Salvai Andrea , Grabic Jasna , Josimov-Dundjerski Jasmina , Zemunac Rados , Antonic Nenad , Savic Radovan , Blagojevic Bosko
Published: April 2022

The Danube River plays significant role not only for preserving natural ecosystems. The aim of this paper is to examine the Middle Danube water quality in the part flowing through Serbia in section Bezdan -Banatska Palanka. Water quality data were examined for seven control points for period 2004-2018, for seven parameters: suspended solids (SS), dissolved oxygen (DO), electrical conductivity (EC), nitrates (NO3
–-N), total phosphorus (Ptot), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) and chemical oxygen demand (COD). Data analyses included the application of ANOVA, linear regression analysis and Mann-Kendall trend test. The Mann-Kendall tests in most (32/49) cases, i.e. in 65 %, confirmed the non-existence of a significant trend. Significant downward trends were confirmed in 17 cases. Water quality improvement was confirmed at following control points: Bezdan for NO3
–-N, Ptot and BOD5; Bogojevo for NO3
–-N, Ptot, COD and BOD5; Novi Sad for Ptot, BOD5 and COD; Slankamen for BOD5 and COD; Smederevo for NO3
–-N and COD; Banatska Palanka for NO3
–-N. Slight deterioration of water quality was confirmed only in two cases, at the Zemun and Smederevo where DO was decreasing. Water quality for the examined period was stable and can be characterised as excellent and/or very good (class I or class II). Results emphasise fact that water quality trends monitoring reveals river sectors where the process of water quality degradation is ongoing. Timely detected critical river sectors can draw the attention of decision-makers, who can improve the existing legislation that would lead to water quality improvement.