bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methods of forming the creative thinking and learning technology competencies of future biology teachers
Authors: Nogerbek Assem , Ziyayeva Gulnar , Dastan Jylysbayev , Sveta Sikhimbayeva , Childibayev Dzhumadil
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this research is to determine the creative thinking and learning technology competencies of biology teacher candidates and to get their opinions on the methods of creating these competencies. The mixed method, in which quantitative and qualitative methods are used together, was preferred as a research model. The study group of the quantitative part of the research consists of 482 biology teacher candidates studying at various universities in Kazakhstan in the 2021–2022 academic year, and the study group of the qualitative part consists of 25 biology teacher candidates. Two different measurement tools were used in the study. In collecting the quantitative data of the research, the scale of creative thinking and learning technology competencies, and a semi-structured interview form in collecting the qualitative data were prepared by the researchers. As a result of the research, the creative thinking and learning technology competencies of the biology teacher candidates participating in the research were found to be moderate. The creative thinking and learning technology competencies of the biology teacher candidates participating in the research did not show a significant difference according to the gender and the class they are studying in. Considering the qualitative findings of the research, the majority of biology teacher candidates mentioned the importance of giving importance to personal development and participating in creative thinking activities such as courses, seminars and conferences in order to develop creative thinking. Biology teacher candidates stated that in order to use learning technologies effectively in education, it is necessary to be interested in technology and to use technology in education. The vast majority of biology teacher candidates, on the methods of constructing creative thinking and learning technology competencies, suggested creating course content and organising creative thinking and technology seminars in universities.

 

Keywords: Creative thinking, learning technologies, biology teacher candidates;
Seed dormancy and germination: a critical update
Authors:   Wageningen University & Research, The Netherlands, Hilhorst Henk W. M. ,   University of Cape Town, South Africa
Published: August 2022

Seeds are the prime source of food in the world, not only from a nutritional point of view but also as the basis of crop production. A key requirement for farmers is vigorous and fast-germinating seed to guarantee a uniform crop of high yield. This is quite opposite to the natural behaviour of seeds which employ dormancy to spread the risk of premature death over time. This chapter addresses the genetic and molecular mechanisms of dormancy and germination. It highlights some of the most important regulatory principles, particularly in relation to the inherent complexity of the seed as a biological system, entailing numerous layers of organisation and regulation, from cells to the environment.
Biotic sources of seed losses influencing germination and emergence success in crop plants and agricultural weeds
Authors:   University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA, Dalling James W. , Davis Adam S. ,   University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA
Published: August 2022

Yield loss of crop plants to pests, pathogens, and competitors has remained largely undiminished over the last 50 years, representing a significant cost to farmers and a continuing threat to food security. We review the contribution of pathogens and predators to seed losses, distinguishing events that occur before and after seed dispersal. We include both weeds and crop plants because the greatest yield improvements can often result from targeting weed seed survival after crops are harvested. We highlight the strong potential for management practices to enhance predation losses of weed seeds relative to seed pathogen losses, particularly for species with long-lived dormant seeds. Many weed species have coexisted with crop plants for centuries. Studies of the chemical and physical defenses of weed seeds, and of the microbial associates that underpin their success, may also inform new approaches to manage crop seed losses.
Advances in understanding the genetic and environmental factors determining seed longevity
Authors:   Institut Agro, Univ Angers, INRAE, IRHS, France, Buitink Julia , Leprince Olivier ,   Institut Agro, Univ Angers, INRAE, IRHS, France
Published: August 2022

Longevity is defined as the extent to which seeds can remain alive during storage. It is an essential seed trait that serves to bridge the time between seed abscission until germination, and underpins global agriculture and plant species conservation. Over the past decade, the research field in longevity of orthodox seeds has seen major developments. Focussing mostly on data of controlled storage conditions in the laboratory, this chapter highlights the main discoveries in these areas. The areas that will be discussed are related to the extent of seed life spans in Angiosperms, the advances that have been made using natural or induced genetic diversity, and how the genetic programs governing seed longevity are strongly dependent on the growth conditions during seed development in a genotype-dependent manner, reflecting plasticity and adaptation. A final section focusses on the use of various ageing protocols and the limits of extrapolating accelerated ageing conditions.
Enhancing seed defence mechanisms against pathogens
Authors:   Bio-Protection Research Centre, Lincoln University, New Zealand, Hampton John
Published: August 2022

Defence priming is defined as the enhanced sensitivity and responsiveness to stress that results from a prior experience and leads to increased resistance and/or stress tolerance. For plants, priming agents may be microorganisms or chemicals. This chapter reviews defense priming against plant pathogens when the priming agent is associated with seeds, concentrating on microbial endophytes and volatile organic compounds, and, where known, the mechanisms involved in defence responses. Whether these responses can be vertically transmitted between plant generations is also briefly discussed. Answers to nine research questions posed will contribute to turning the promise for seed defence priming into practice.
THE PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT OF YOUNG MEN OF ETHNO-TERRITORIAL GROUPS OF THE REPUBLIC OF MORDOVIA
Authors: Yurtaykina Mariya N. , Chairkin Ivan N. , Mishechkin Maksim M. , Chairkina Natal'ya V. , Rybakov Aleksey G. , Parshin Alexandr A. , Bokov Konstantin V.
Published: August 2022

At present, various ethno-territorial groups are of great interest to researchers in order to study their physical development, morphological and functional indicators in order to identify the body's adaptive responses to environmental factors. To date, research devoted to the study of the level of physical development, features of the morphological and functional state of adolescent males, taking into account ethno-territorial characteristics, have not been conducted in the Republic of Mordovia. The aim of the study was to study the level of physical development and anthropometric status of young men aged 17-21 years, of different ethnicity, permanently residing in the Republic of Mordovia. Random samples of 1612 male students were examined, including 774 Russian males and 838 Mordovian males. The place of birth, length of residence in the Republic of Mordovia and the corresponding ethnicity of the parents for at least three generations were taken into account. As a result, it was found that among young people of the studied populations, individuals with an average head shape with proportional development and normal body weight predominate. Among young men, a normosthenic type of constitution of an andromorph body type is common with an average life index and a low or average strength index. The majority of students of the Russian ethno-territorial group have an average face shape, a narrow chest shape, while the representatives of the Mordovian ethno-territorial group have a wide face shape, a proportional shape of the chest. In the first group of students, body length indicators were also higher, which most likely has a genetic influence. Comparative evaluation of anthropometric and functional indicators of the body of young men showed that in order to establish the morphological and functional features, as well as the level of physical development of adolescent males, the best results are obtained when the researcher works with specific ethno-territorial groups. A distinctive feature for both studied groups is the shape of the face and chest, which depend on heredity and are constant characteristics. The results obtained can be used in the development of university and regional health programs for adolescent males in the Republic of Mordovia.
THE MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE OFFSPRING OF MALE RATS IRRADIATED WITH ELECTRONS AT A DOSE OF 2 GY AND TREATMENT BY PLATELET-RICH PLASMA
Authors: Demyashkin Grigory A. , Tsibulevsky Aleksandr Yu. , Nedorubov Andrey A. , Ivchenko Yuliya V. , Shchekin Vladimir I.
Published: August 2022

One of the most dangerous effects of radiation on health is reproductive dysfunction, often leading to infertility. Available studies on the effects of radiation on spermatogenesis and fertility have not considered the possibility of using restorative therapy. One of the modern methods of infertility treatment is the introduction of autologous blood plasma with an increased content of platelets and native growth factors. Currently, there are no studies on the study of offspring obtained by using this method of infertility treatment and the assessment of its teratogenicity. Purpose of the study: morphological analysis of offspring of male rats irradiated with electrons at a dose of 2 Gy and receiving platelet-rich plasma. Male Wistar rats (n=35) were once subjected to targeted ionizing radiation at a NOVAC-11 pulsed electron accelerator at a dose of 2 Gy. To half (n=15) of the irradiated animals were injected with platelet-rich plasma and insulin-like growth factor-1 for 12 weeks, after which the males of both groups were placed with intact females (n=30) to produce offspring. The state of the developing offspring was assessed by morphological analysis after the removal of pregnant females from the experiment on the 20th day of prenatal development. Pregnancy was observed only in females bred by control males and males treated with platelet-rich plasma. Classical histological methods and X-ray computed microtomography were used. As a result of the study, it was found that the weight and size of the offspring from the control and experimental groups did not have macroscopic differences; light microscopy did not reveal significant changes in their histological structure. Pathological changes in the development of the offspring of males of the experimental group who received platelet-rich plasma after electron irradiation with a dose of 2 Gy using computed microtomography were also not detected. The obtained data indicate about of effectiveness of the treatment of the infertility of irradiated male rats with platelet-rich plasma, as well as the absence of its teratogenic effects.
MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LIVER IN DIFFERENT PHASES OF THE INVASION OPISTHORCHIS FELINEUS IN RABBITS ORYCTOLAGUS CUNICULUS
Authors: Sidelnikova Аlevtina A.
Published: August 2022

Morphological changes in the liver, as the main organ in which Opisthorchis felineus is localized, according to the literature, are characterized by significant structural differences in the acute and chronic phases of the disease. Comparative characteristics of the morphological changes in the liver in different phases of opisthorchiasis in the experiment in rabbits, such as Oryctolagus cuniculus, was not carried out. To simulate the acute and chronic phases of invasion, the animals were divided into two observation groups. The histological material was processed by standard methods, liver tissue sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and according to Van Gieson to identify connective tissue structures. Histological preparations were studied by the methods of light-optical microscopy with immersion, video microscopy with morphometry. As a result of the study, it was found that in the acute phase of opisthorchiasis, the general infiltration of the portal tract area prevails compared to the infiltration of the bile duct wall, in the chronic phase, the thickness of the infiltrate of the bile duct wall approaches the total values. The cellular composition of infiltrates is characterized by the presence of lymphocytes, fibroblasts, epithelioid cells and cells of foreign bodies in both phases, if macrophages predominate in the acute phase of invasion, then fibrocytes and mast cells predominate in the chronic phase. Hepatocytes in the acute phase have disturbances in the tinctorial properties of the karyolemma and cytoplasm, mainly due to grain segregation. In the chronic phase of opisthorchiasis, polyploid hepatocytes are found. The connective tissue of the portal tract region in both phases quantitatively predominates in comparison with the connective tissue of the region of the boundary plates. The maximum amount of connective tissue in the area of ​​the portal tract in the chronic phase increases by 4.4 times compared with the acute phase of the parasitic disease. Thus, morphological changes in the liver of rabbits in different phases are characterized by both commonality and significant differences, consisting in different cellular composition of the invasion zone, the amount of connective tissue formed in different areas of the organ, and changes in hepatocytes.
THE EPOCHAL STABILITY OF THE LENGTH OF THE FEMUR OF MEDIEVAL SMOLENSK NECROPOLIS
Authors: Teykina Ol'ga Yu. , Derevtsova Svetlana N.
Published: August 2022

The study in the Laboratory of osteological monitoring of archaeological excavations of the Department of Human Anatomy of the Smolensk State Medical Institute contains the femurs of adults from the «Pyatnitsky Konets» necropolis in medieval Smolensk. In order to avoid difficulties in interpreting the results of research work with a potentially huge amount of information and to improve it, the osteological material, which, according to archeological data, dates back to the 12th–18th centuries, was systematized. The general theory of systems makes it possible to use the concept of a biological system (mathematical model), on which, as a result of abstraction, adaptation, evolution, and other processes can be reflected to a minimal extent. The aim of this study was to analyze the stability over time of the osteometric parameter of the greatest length of systematized, but initially disparate right and left femurs of human remains of the 12th–18th centuries. The objects of study were 288 left and 295 right femurs of the remains of adults from the necropolis of medieval Smolensk. The osteometric parameter of the greatest length was measured with a modified Reed tripod between the highest point of the femoral head and the lowest point of the medial condyle according to the classical method of Russian anthropologist Valery Alekseev (1966). Epochal stability was determined by statistical analysis of variation series of the parameter using descriptive statistics techniques. The results of a statistical study of two variation series of values of the osteometric parameter of the greatest length of 288 left and 295 right femurs turned out to be close in values. A normal symmetrical distribution with the most negative flat-top kurtosis for both variation series without division into several vertices is obtained. The results reflect the statistical typicality of the parameter, its small oscillations, the homogeneity of the bone objects of the studied osteometric parameter, which have been under the modifying influence of environmental factors for seven centuries. This allows us to conclude that in the statistically artificial system of 583 femurs, the same type of epochal stability of the parameter of their greatest length was found in the time period of several centuries.
APPROBATION OF THE MODEL AND ASSESSMENT OF THE PATHOLOGICAL PICTURE OF DOSED ACUTE TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY
Authors: Saidov Saidmurod S. , Barskov Igor V. , Taktarov Vladimir G. , Saidov Ayubdzhon S. , Breneva Ol'ga A. , Pribyl'nova Irina A. , Chernysheva Elena F. , Sharashova Natal'ya S.
Published: August 2022

In recent years, the incidence of traumatic brain injury has increased significantly, closely related to the increase in the number of high-speed vehicles and other associated factors. The problem of diagnosis and effective treatment of open craniocerebral injuries is one of the most important for emergency physicians and neurosurgeons in providing timely qualified assistance, and is also of interest for studying pathological processes that prevent the development of their complications. The purpose of the study was to create a model of dosed open craniocerebral injury using experimental animals and to assess the dependence of anatomical and functional disorders on the degree of brain damage. In laboratory white rats, the traumatic impact was carried out through a trepanation window with a diameter of 3,5 mm, while maintaining the dura mater. The brain of all animals was examined using a BioSpec 70/30 USR magnetic resonance tomograph on the 9th day after injury and by neurohistological methods. Morphometric measurement of the amount of damage on the 9th day after exposure showed the dependence of the increase in damage to brain structures on the force of impact. Histological studies also confirmed the direct dependence of the volume of brain damage on the magnitude of the damaging factor. Modeling of acute craniocerebral injury also revealed a correlation between the lethality of animals and the magnitude of the damaging factor. With longer follow-up periods, the model makes it possible to evaluate the therapeutic effect of pharmacological drugs and choose the most effective method of treatment. The phenomenon of the presence of exofocal foci with ischemic damaged neurons in the contralateral (intact) hemisphere detected by neurohistological methods was noted. The formation of such ischemic lesions is explained by the development of post-traumatic edema of the brain tissue, which leads to displacement of the subcortical structures and compression of the marginal vessels. The results of the study prove the direct dependence of the morphological picture observed in the brain in acute traumatic brain injury on the degree of exposure to the damaging factor.
THE COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF BLOOD CELL MORPHOLOGY AND ITS BIOCHEMICAL FEATURES IN RABBITS WITH CHRONIC OPISTHORCHIASIS
Authors: Kuvshinov Dmitry Yu. , Sidel'nikova Alevtina A.
Published: August 2022

There are many preconditions for changes in erythropoiesis and leukopoiesis, changes in biochemical parameters of blood, hemostatic system in animals and humans under conditions of opisthorchiasis invasion. The purpose of the study was to analyze morphological and biochemical changes in the blood system in chronic opisthorchiasis using an experimental model of Oryctolagus cuniculus. The experiment was carried out on rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) with modeling of chronic opisthorchiasis. The invasive dose was 50 Opisthorchis felineus metacercariae. The animals were divided into a control group (n=10) and an observation group (n=10). The morphological blood picture wich was studied by the standard method was compared with the previously obtained results of its biochemical analysis for the content of lactate dehydrogenase, muscle creatine kinase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and uric acid. It was established that 1,5 years after infection of rabbits in the observation group, structural heteromorphism of leukocytes is manifested. Pseudo-eosinophils had toxic granularity in the cytoplasm. In 19,5% of pseudoeosinophils, both stab and segmented, vacuolization of the cytoplasm was noted. A significant number of forms of lympholysis (shadows of Botkin-Gumprecht-Klein) was found – 9,6% per 100 leukocytes. In the study of erythrocytes, the presence of poikilocytosis was established; the most common were acanthocytes, dacryocytes. In rabbits of the control group and the observation group, the differences in blood pH are non-significant. Microscopic observation in a thick blood drop revealed that in the control group erythrocytes in vitro retained passive mobility for 59,8±15,2 seconds, in the observation group this figure was 42,6±7,5 seconds, erythrocytes formed aggregates. The blood clotting time in the control group is 101,9±32,1 seconds, and in the observation group – 194,8±35,2 seconds, the differences are significant. A change in the tinctorial properties of the platelet chromomere was noted. Thus, in rabbits with experimentally induced chronic opisthorchiasis, morphological changes in blood cells are observed, a decrease in the activity of the coagulation system with associated changes in its biochemical parameters, which contributes to a more detailed understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms of changes in the blood system in chronic opisthorchiasis.
THE COMPLEX STUDY OF GINGIVAL MICROVESSELS IN YOUNG PEOPLE
Authors: Ibragim Raid Kh. , Kozlov Valentin I. , Gurova Ol'ga A.
Published: August 2022

Morphological and functional features of tissue blood flow are genetically determined, the identification of individual characteristics of microcirculation in the oral mucosa in the gum area can help determine the specifics of periodontal tissue damage in various patients. The aim of the study was to study tissue blood flow and microvessels in different areas of the oral mucosa in young people. In 40 healthy young people, biomicroscopy and laser Doppler flowmetry were used to record blood microcirculation indicators in various parts of the gums in the upper and lower jaws. On cadaveric material, the depth of blood vessels in different parts of the gum was studied. As a result of the study, it was found that the density of microvessels and the intensity of blood flow decrease with distance from the transitional fold to the edge of the gum. In the same areas of the mucous membrane in the upper and lower jaws, the microcirculation indicators do not differ. The most common (in 35 out of 40 subjects) in the vessels of the oral mucosa was the mesoemic type of blood microcirculation, in which the tissue blood flow was of medium intensity and the mechanisms of its regulation were balanced. In other cases, very low (hypoemic type) or high (hyperemic type) indicators of tissue blood flow with weak activity of vasomotor mechanisms of regulation of the state of microvessels of the oral mucosa were recorded. Thus, the use of a set of methods for studying the microvasculature of the oral mucosa in the gingival region allows us to quantitatively characterize the state of microvessels, as well as the intensity of tissue blood flow in different parts of the gingiva of the upper and lower jaws in young people. The richest microvascular network is observed in the region of the transitional gingival fold. As the distance from the transitional fold to the marginal part of the gums, the density of capillaries and the intensity of blood flow in them decrease, the gingival mucosa near the neck of the tooth has the lowest microcirculation rates.
THE LIFETIME MORPHOMETRY OF CARDIOESOPHAGEAL TRANSITION IN PATIENTS WITH HIATAL HERNIA
Authors: Lyashchenko Sergey N. , Demin Dmitry B. , Borodkin Ivan N. , Savin Dmitry V. , Nikogosyan Anush R. , Bokareva Nadezhda S.
Published: August 2022

With the development of X-ray technology and the advent of computed tomography, it became possible not only to accurately diagnose hiatal hernia, but also to conduct morphometry of all its constituent anatomical structures in different projections to use the data obtained at the stage of preoperative planning for its surgical treatment. Currently, due to the improvement in the quality of diagnostics, there is an increase in the detection of patients with this pathology, along with this, the question of choosing the most rational method of treatment is acute. The aim of the study was to study the computed tomographic anatomy of the structures of the cardioesophageal junction in patients with hiatal hernia. A retrospective study of a series of computed tomograms in 53 patients with hiatal hernia, performed on a 64-slice Canon Aquilion Prime tomograph, was carried out. An assessment was made of the diameter of the distal esophagus, the size of the hernia orifice, and the deviation of the axis of the esophagus at the level of the hernial orifice relative to the diaphragm in two planes. As a result of the analysis, it was found that in 79% of cases the esophagus was located on the right and behind the hernial sac, in 13% - behind and in the middle, in 8% - on the left and behind. It was revealed that the diameter of the unchanged part of the esophagus above the hernial sac was 20.9±3.71 mm (min – 15.7 mm, max – 30.2 mm). The dimensions of the hernial orifice varied within 31.21±5.23 mm in the frontal plane (min - 24.7 mm, max - 42 mm) and 32.66±4.36 mm in the sagittal plane (min - 26.2 mm, max - 39.1 mm). The deviation of the axis of the esophagus in the frontal plane was 63.53°±16.74 (min - 19.6°, max - 92.3°). The deviation of the axis of the esophagus in the sagittal plane was 74.12°±21.31 (min - 36.3°, max - 118.1°). Thus, due to the variability in the structure and location of the anatomical structures of the cardioesophageal zone in patients with hiatal hernia, it is necessary to take into account all of the above indicators, including the presence or absence of large branches of the greater omentum in the hernial sac, body type, gender, age of patients, which serves an integral part of preoperative planning of surgical treatment, optimization and reduction of complications, as well as determining the safest method of its surgery.
THE VARIABILITY OF THE VALUES OF ODONTOMETRIC INDICATORS OF THE FEMALE POPULATION OF KRASNOYARSK CITY IN THE 17TH–21ST CENTURIES
Authors: Bayburin Rinat F. , Medvedeva Nadezhda N. , Baksheeva Svetlana L. , Savenkova Tat'yana M.
Published: August 2022

The study of evolutionary changes in human teeth is relevant from the point of view of identifying the geographical, ethnic, constitutional and sexual variability of the dentoalveolar system as a whole. The results of such studies can be used to predict the prevalence of anomalies and deformities of teeth, taking into account their epochal variability. The purpose of the study was to study the variability of the values ​​of odontometric parameters of the teeth of the female population of the city of Krasnoyarsk in the 17th–21st centuries. The studied odontological materials (55 samples) were obtained during archaeological excavations of the necropolises of the city of Krasnoyarsk: 32 samples from the materials of the Pokrovsky necropolis of the 17th–18th centuries; 23 - from the materials of the Vsekhsvyatsky Necropolis of 18th–19th centuries. In addition, the data of studies of modern women (188 people) aged 21-35 years old, who were examined at the Department of Therapeutic Dentistry of the Professor Voyno-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University. Within the framework of the study, the vestibulo-oral and mesio-distal diameters of the crowns of the teeth of the upper and lower jaws were studied, taking into account their group affiliation, anatomical shape, according to the method of Russian anthropologist Aleksandr Zubov. Statistical analysis included non-parametric methods of descriptive statistics and methods for comparing two or more independent samples. Analysis of the variability of the vestibulo-oral diameter of the crowns in the functional group of the molars of the upper and lower jaws showed a stable process of reduction. The mesio-distal diameter of the incisor crowns differed statistically significantly only for the teeth of the lower jaw. A statistically significant decrease in the values ​​of the median of the vestibulo-oral crown diameter was found in all key teeth of this group. The greatest reduction changes were registered in the first molars of the upper jaw. The first lower molars of representatives of different centuries did not have statistically significant differences in the size of the mesio-distal size of the crown of these teeth, as well as premolars. A comparative analysis of the obtained odontometric characteristics of the teeth showed a general trend towards a decrease in the size of the teeth of the female population of the Krasnoyarsk City, taking into account the time vector, which is a confirmation of the epochal reduction of the dentition.
Combat against Neglected Parasitic Diseases in Yemen: The Need for Mapping as a Prerequisite for Elimination
Authors: Abdul-Ghani Rashad
Published: August 2022

Besides poverty, war and social unrest, Yemen is afflicted with the majority of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) listed by the World health organization, particularly parasitic ones. Despite the efforts made by some control and elimination programmes, there is a lack of reliable mapping services that could help to identify the top-priority endemic areas and at-risk populations and to monitor the effectiveness of past and ongoing efforts to eliminate parasitic NTDs. Therefore, most of the NTD burden iceberg in Yemen is still submerged and needs to be assessed, mapped and stratified for the implementation of cost-effective elimination interventions. Availability of accessible data on the burden of parasitic diseases as well as mass drug administration in endemic areas is a prerequisite for any successful cost-effective elimination efforts. The establishment of an open-access national NTDs mapping center in Yemen should be considered as a databank for researchers, policy makers and funding bodies.
Evaluation of Hypoglycemic Activity of Boswellia carterii and Cissus rotundifolia in Streptozotocin/Nicotinamide-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Al-Mehdar Ali A. , Al-Battah Adel M.
Published: August 2022

Objective: To evaluate the hypoglycemic activity of Boswellia carterii and Cissus rotundifolia in rats compared to that of glibenclamide and metformin as common oral hypoglycemic drugs.Methods: Thirty-six male Wistar rats, divided into six groups of six rats each, were assigned into diabetic and non-diabetic groups. Diabetes was induced in rats by single intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin (65 mg/kg b.w.) and nicotinamide (110 mg/kg b.w.). The first two groups were normal and diabetic controls, whereas the other four diabetic groups were treated with water extracts of the medicinal plants; B. carterii (100 mg/kg b.w.) and C. rotundifolia (100 mg/kg b.w.), glibenclamide (5 mg/kg b.w.) and metformin (150 mg/kg b.w.). Body weight and serum glucose were measured on days 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels were also measured.Results: Treatment of diabetic rats with the water extracts of B. carterii and C. rotundifolia for four weeks resulted in a significant (p<0.05) increase in their body weights and a significant decrease in the levels of serum glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides. The effects of the two plant extracts were almost similar to those of glibenclamide and metformin.Conclusion: Water extracts of B. carterii or C. rotundifolia have a hypoglycemic effect resembling those of glibenclamide and metformin, and these findings provide a pharmacological evidence for their anti-diabetic claims in folk medicine.
Factors Associated with Post-Transplant Anemia among Renal Transplant Recipients with Functioning Grafts in Sana’a City, Yemen
Authors: Othman Arwa M. , Abuasba Nagib W. , Saif-Ali Riyadh
Published: August 2022

Objective: To assess the factors associated with anemia in renal transplant recipients with functioning grafts in Sana’a city, Yemen.

Methods: One hundred and thirteen adult renal transplant recipients with functioning grafts were enrolled in this study in the period from Janury to December 2014. Biodata and clinical data were collected using a pre-designeddata collection sheet. Hemoglobin (Hb) concentration was measured, and anemia was defined as Hb concentration less than13.0 g/dLin males and less than 12.0 g/dL in females. The factors associated with anemia were analyzed, and independent predictors of post-transplant anemia (PTA) among renal transplant recipients were identified using a multivariable logistic regression model.

Results: PTA was detected in 23.0% of renal transplant recipients with functioning grafts. Bivariate analysis showed a significant association of PTA with age of 50 years or older (Odds ratio (OR) = 2.7; 95% CI: 1.10–6.72; P = 0.03), history of acute rejection (OR = 3.6; 95% CI: 1.17–11.28; P = 0.019) and delayed graft function (OR = 6.2; 95% CI:1.60–24.16; P = 0.004). Multivariable analysis using a logistic regression model identified history of acute rejection (adjusted OR = 3.9; 95% CI: 1.11–12.94; P = 0.034) and delayed graft function (adjusted OR = 4.6; 95% CI: 1.07–19.81; P = 0.04) as independent risk factors for PTA among recipients. However, no association was found between PTA and recipient’s gender, graft source, immunosuppressive protocols, erythropoietin treatment or use of antihypertensive drugs.

Conclusions: The prevalence of PTA among Yemeni renal transplant recipients is high, with history of acute rejection and delayed graft function being the independent risk factors. Therefore, it is recommended that physicians involved in renal transplantation consider the investigation and follow-up of transplant recipients for PTA and adopt appropriate preventive and therapeutic measures.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Trichomonas vaginalis Infection among Pregnant Women Seeking Primary Health Care in Sana'a City, Yemen
Authors: Al-Mekhlafi Abdulsalam M. , Al-Eryani Samira M. A.
Published: August 2022

Objective: To determine the prevalence and risk factors for Trichomonas vaginalis infection among pregnant women seeking health care in Sana’a city.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women seeking health care in private clinics and governmental primary health care centers in Sana’a during the period from October 2014 to June 2015. Data on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics as well as possible risk factors of T. vaginalis infection were collected from 287 pregnant women using a pre-designed questionnaire by trained researchers. Vaginal discharges were then collected and examined microscopically for motile T. vaginalis trophozoites.

Results: The overall prevalence of T. vaginalis infection was 11.1%, with a higher infection rate among pregnant women aged 26-40 years old, housewives and rural residents. Age, literacy status and the age at first sexual intercourse were signiﬁcantly associated with T. vaginalis infection among pregnant women. Presence of vaginal discharge (OR = 8.33; 95% CI: 2.47–28.03, P <0.001), itching (OR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.02–6.48, P = 0.027) and presence of unpleasant odor (OR = 4.37; 95% CI: 1.63–11.70, P = 0.001) were the clinical manifestations significantly associated with T. vaginalis among pregnant women.

Conclusions: T. vaginalis is prevalent among pregnant women seeking health care in Sana’a, particularly housewives, illiterate women and those coming from rural areas. Presence of vaginal discharge with unpleasant odor and itching are associated with a higher risk of infection among symptomatic women. Further large-scale studies are required to determine the prevalence and risk factors among women of the reproductive age in Yemen.
Assessment of Certain Biochemical Parameters among Petrol Station Workers in Sana’a City, Yemen
Authors: Alhaj Ali , Alqubaty Abdulhabib R. , Nassar Mogahid , Al-qadasi Farouk
Published: August 2022

Objective: To assess hepatic and renal functions among petrol stations workers in Sana’a city, Yemen.

Methods: A case-control study was carried out in Sana’a city, in the period from November 2017 to April 2018. Cases included 109 eligible petrol station workers exposed to petrol for at least six hours daily over a period of six months or more, while 109 apparently healthy office workers were recruited from the University of Science and Technology as controls. Data were collected using a pre-designed questionnaire through face-to-face interview. Then, blood samples were collected from cases and controls and tested for albumin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urea and creatinine in the Laboratory Department of the University of Science and Technology Hospital. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 23.0.

Results: The mean concentration of serum albumin among petrol station workers was significantly lower than the controls. In contrast, the mean level of serum ALP was significantly higher among the petrol station workers than the controls. On the other hand, there were no statistically significant differences in the mean levels of serum ALT and AST between the two groups. Although the mean concentrations of creatinine and urea were higher among the controls than the petrol station workers, the difference was only significantly higher for creatinine among office workers.

Conclusions: Although no specific biochemical abnormalities exist in the hepatic and renal functions of petrol station workers in Sana’a city, these parameters may show evident effects with prolonged exposure to petrol components. Further longitudinal studies with larger sample sizes, longer durations of exposure and regular follow-up are recommended to assess the impact of long-term exposure to petrol on hepatic and renal functions.
Invitro Effect of Bulkfill and Incremental Application Techniques with Different Composite Filling Materials on Marginal Microleakage
Authors: Aulfat A. Albahari  , Ahmed A. Madfa  , Mohammed A. Dubais
Published: August 2022

Abstract                                                                                                 

Objective: To assess the in vitro effect of bulkfill and incremental application techniques on the microleakage of class II dental cavities filled with three different bulkfill composite materials at occlusal and cervical margins.

Methods: Standardized class II cavities were prepared on 120 human premolar teeth extracted for orthodontic treatment, which were randomly divided into two main groups of 60 teeth, corresponding to the two application techniques. Each group wasthen sub-dividedrandomly into three sub-groups based on the type of bulkfill restorative materials as follows: Tetric®N-Ceram BulkFill, Filtek™BulkFill flowable restorative material and X-trafil®BulkFill. All cavities were prepared and etched, and the corresponding self-etch bond adhesive systems were applied. A stereomicroscope was used to assess microleakage after thermocycling and immersion of the specimens in 0.1% methylene blue for 24 hours. Mann-Whitney U test was then used to analyze data.

Results: No statistically significant difference was found in the marginal microleakage between the incremental and bulkfill techniques using the three types of composite materials at both occlusal and cervical margins. The X-trafil®BulkFill showed the lowest score of microleakage with both application techniques compared to other bulkfill composite materials.

Conclusion: Both incremental and bulkfill application techniques using Tetric®N-Ceram BulkFill, Filtek™BulkFill flowable restorative material and X-trafil®BulkFill composite materials have a comparable effect on the marginal microleakage at occlusal and cervical margins of human teeth extracted from dental clinics in Sana’a city. Further studies are recommended to assess the clinical success of bulkfill composite materials using SEM or confocal microscope.
Prevalence of Extended Spectrum Beta‑Lactamase in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from patients at Sharda Hospital, Greater Noida, Western UP
Authors: Sarwat Tarana , Mohan Sneha , P. Singh Satendra , K. Kakru Dalip
Published: August 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an important pathogen causing healthcare-associated infections especially in immunocompromised patients. It poses a threat to public health due to its inherent resistance to various antimicrobial agents and its ability to acquire new resistance through multiple mechanisms. Infections due to extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producing isolates of P. aeruginosa continue to be a challenge for clinicians as these result in high mortality and morbidity due to antimicrobial resistance. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Cefotaximase-Munich (CTX-M) producing strains of P. aeruginosa in Sharda hospital, Greater Noida.

Methods: Strains of P. aeruginosa isolated from various clinical samples were subjected to phenotypic detection for ESBL production by disc combination method. Positive strains were then subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of blaCTX-M gene.

Results: Out of 166 isolates of P. aeruginosa, 54 (32.53%) were phenotypically confirmed to produce ESBL. Out of these 54 isolates, 39 (72.22%) were positive for blaCTX-M gene. Multidrug resistance was found in 70 (42.17%) isolates. Imipenem was the most effective drug with a sensitivity of 64.86% whereas aztreonam was found to be least effective with sensitivity of only 36.74%.

Conclusion: Current study highlights the phenotypic and molecular characterization of CTX-M gene in P.aeruginosa in our hospital set-up. With judicious use of antimicrobials and strict infection control practices, it might be possible to limit the effect of these drug destroying enzymes.

Keywords: CTX-M gene, Extended spectrum beta lactamases, Hospital acquired infections, multidrug resistance,

Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Cooperative Relations of the EAEU with Third Countries and Ukraine
Authors: Krivogouz M. , Fesenko D.
Published: August 2022

The following article is the final of the series of publications on the problems of interregional and intraregional Eurasian Economic Union’s trade in cooperative goods. Also the cooperative status and foreign trade structure of the Ukraine are being analyzed. The conclusion is made that the volumes of the interregional trade in cooperative goods within the Eurasian Economic Union are more than five times less than that of the intraregional. The Ukrainian transition to the West leads to sufficient loss of the volumes of foreign trade and the degradation of the cooperative potential of the Ukrainian industry.
With Aesculapius and a white and red checkerboard in the coat of arms – lt. col. pilot Józef Leoszko, MD (1894-1948) as a witness of the creation and development of aviation medicine in Poland
Authors: Kopociński Zbigniew , Kopociński Krzysztof
Published: August 2022

W artykule przedstawiono sylwetkę ppłk. dr. pil. Józefa Leoszko (1894-1948), jednego z pionierów i twórców polskiej medycyny lotniczej. Urodził się w Wilnie, w czasie I wojny światowej zaangażował się w działalność konspiracyjną Polskiej Organizacji Wojskowej, od końca 1918 r. służył w Wojsku Polskim. W 1919 r. jako żołnierz 41. Suwalskiego Pułku Piechoty brał udział w walkach o wyzwolenie Lidy i Wilna, a w 1920 r. w wyprawie na Kijów i obronie Warszawy. Dyplom lekarza uzyskał w 1924 r. na Wydziale Lekarskim Uniwersytetu Warszawskiego. Był pierwszym w historii polskich sił powietrznych lekarzem, który ukończył szkolenie lotnicze i w 1925 r. uzyskał tytuł pilota. Swoje doświadczenia lotnicze i wiedzę medyczną nabytą podczas studiów w Uniwersytecie Warszawskim, wykorzystywał w badaniach naukowych jako pracownik Centrum Badań Lekarskich Lotnictwa w Warszawie. W swoich publikacjach naukowych skupiał się głównie na szeroko rozumianych zagadnieniach dotyczących bezpieczeństwa zdrowotnego pilotów i z całą pewnością przyczynił się do rozwoju medycyny lotniczej w Polsce. W czasie II wojny światowej był lekarzem Polskich Sił Powietrznych w Wielkiej Brytanii. Zmarł w 1948 r., pochowany na Cmentarzu Lotników Polskich w Newark w Anglii.
Chosen letters from doctors to Seweryn Gałęzowski from the Polish Library in Paris
Authors: Magowska Anita , Pękacka-Falkowska Katarzyna
Published: August 2022

Listy lekarzy do Seweryna Gałęzowskiego w Bibliotece Polskiej w Paryżu – wybór
Fits of Models and Thermodynamic Properties in Drying of Mass of Jambu Leaves
Authors: Gomes Francileni Pompeu , Resende Osvaldo , Sousa Elisabete Piancó de , Célia Juliana Aparecida , De Oliveira Kênia Borges
Published: August 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate the drying kinetics of the mass of jambu leaves and mass of jambu leaves in foam mat at different temperatures (50, 60 and 70 °C and thickness of 1.0 cm). The physicochemical characterization of the materials was performed before and after drying. Twelve different drying models were fitted to the drying kinetics data and the thermodynamic properties were calculated. The physicochemical parameters for the mass of leaves and foam after drying were moisture content from 2 to 7%, ash from 13 to 17%, protein content from 22 to 30%, lipids from 0.6 to 4% and total titratable acidity from 0.20 to 0.28% of tartaric acid. Wang & Singh and Midilli models were recommended for describing the drying kinetics. The use of foam mat promoted higher values of effective diffusion coefficient and activation energy and lower values of enthalpy and entropy, thus enhancing the reduction of drying time.
Horizon of Cryptocurrency Before Vs During COVID-19
Authors: Waspada Ikaputera , Salim Dwi Fitrizal , Krisnawati Astrie
Published: August 2022

Cryptocurrencies are now the most popular investment instruments among millenials. Crypto offers great returns in a short period of time. Prior to COVID-19, Crypto experienced significant price fluctuations accompanied by an increase in the number of high transaction volumes. This situation was disrupted by the presence of the COVID-19 which made the world economy devastated, marked by the decline of stock prices in the world, especially in Indonesia. A paired test was conducted in this study to compare the state of Crypto before and during COVID-19 with the variables of Risk, Transaction Volume, Return, and Sharpe Performance. The results showed that there was a significant difference in the variables of Transaction Volume and Return. However, there was no significant difference in the Risk and Sharpe performance before and during COVID-19. This study shows that despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the enthusiasm of investors who transact crypto assets is not affected and they still get returns in accordance with the investments made. The high risk will be followed by a high standard deviation, so that the Sharpe Performance is small. Cryptocurrencies still have many gaps to research, such as regulation, so that many countries have not legalized Crypto transactions. If there is no regulation for Crypto, it is certain that an increase in cybercrime harms crypto investors and threatens global financial stability. Nevertheles, with or without COVID-19, investment transactions gain and lose based on confidence in the limited market. Therefore, the success of confidence fluctuations in crypto encourages the emergence of alternative coins created by investors to conduct an Initial Coin Offering (ICO).