bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted therapy of brain metastases in patients with ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer: A review
Authors: Sakaeva Dina D. , Bulavina Irina S.
Published: February 2022

The data of recent years indicate the steady increase in the frequency of incidence of brain metastases in many localizations of malignant tumors. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common cause, that can affect the central nervous system (CNS). The study of prognostic factors for NSCLC patients with brain metastases, the development of prognostic models, and taking into account the molecular changes can help to approach the development of treatment tactics for this category of patients. The main prognostic factors are age, gender, the Karnofsky/ECOG status, localization and the number of metastatic foci in the brain, the presence of extracranial metastases, and the histological type of tumor. The discovery of driver mutations and stratification of the cohort of patients with lung adenocarcinoma can open up new potential therapeutic effects in this group of patients, both with primary damage of the CNS and with brain metastases against the background of the therapy. The article deals with the analyzing the literature data and the results of international studies in a group of ALK+ NSCLC patients with brain metastases as well as the mechanisms of lung cancer metastases to the central nervous system and the structure of the blood-brain barrier. The comparative analysis of the treatment of this category of patients using third-generation ALK-inhibitors (alectinib, brigatinib, lorlatinib, crizotinib), the frequency of intracranial response and the possible decision-making algorithm in real clinical practice are presented in detail.
Environmental control of Pub1 (NEDD4 family E3 ligase) in Schizosaccharomyces pombe is regulated by TORC2 and Gsk3
Authors: Wang Tingting , Woodman Philip , Humphrey Sean J , Petersen Janni
Published: February 2022

Cells respond to changing nutrient environments by adjusting the abundance of surface nutrient transporters and receptors. This can be achieved by modulating ubiquitin-dependent endocytosis, which in part is regulated by the NEDD4 family of E3 ligases. Here we report novel regulation of Pub1, a fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe member of the NEDD4-family of E3 ligases. We show that nitrogen stress inhibits Pub1 function, thereby increasing the abundance of the amino acid transporter Aat1 at the plasma membrane and enhancing sensitivity to the toxic arginine analogue canavanine. We show that TOR complex 2 (TORC2) signalling negatively regulates Pub1, thus TORC2 mutants under nutrient stress have decreased Aat1 at the plasma membrane and are resistant to canavanine. Inhibition of TORC2 signalling increases Pub1 phosphorylation, and this is dependent on Gsk3 activity. Addition of the Tor inhibitor Torin1 increases phosphorylation of Pub1 at serine 199 (S199) by 2.5-fold, and Pub1 protein levels in S199A phospho-ablated mutants are reduced. S199 is conserved in NEDD4 and is located immediately upstream of a WW domain required for protein interaction. Together, we describe how the major TORC2 nutrient-sensing signalling network regulates environmental control of Pub1 to modulate the abundance of nutrient transporters.
Legitimate pathway to professional ranks or career termination?
Authors: Chard Chris , Edwards Jonathon , Wigfield Daniel
Published: February 2022

The purpose of the current investigation was to empirically evaluate the career progression of USPORTS men’s varsity hockey players to understand if USPORTS men’s hockey is a legitimate pathway to a professional playing career. To address this, USPORTS men’s varsity hockey rosters, from 2000-2018, were captured and analyzed for athletes who progressed to play professional hockey. Findings indicate that 1,391 USPORTS athletes progressed to professional ranks between 2000-2018, a number representing approximately 70 players, on average, per season. Drawing on expectancy value and legitimacy theories, the findings revealed that USPORTS men’s varsity hockey is a legitimate athlete pathway for players to reach professional levels of competition.
Effect of Bingo Game Instructional Strategy on Pupils’ Achievement in Mathematics in Public Primary Schools in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Tella Adedeji , Fatoki Felicia Motunrayo
Published: February 2022

This study determined the effect of Bingo game instructional strategy on Pupils’ mathematics Achievements of public primary schools in Oyo state, Nigeria. One hundred and twelve public primary school grade 3 pupils participated in the study. This study adopted the pretest-posttest control group quasi-experimental design with a 2x3 factorial matrix. The study deployed Bingo strategy as different patterns that were designed to create fun and variety in teaching mathematics. The pretest was administered before the teaching using Bingo strategy, while posttest was administered immediately after the treatment (Bingo strategy). The control group were left with conventional teaching without any manipulation. Simple random sampling was used to select four primary schools from two local government area in Oyo State, Nigeria. Two constructed standardized and validated instruments by the researchers were used for the study: Pupils mathematics Achievement Test (r = 0.81) and Quantitative Ability Test (r = 0.69). The treatment lasted four weeks. The data were analyzed using Analysis of covariance at 0.05 level of significance. The result revealed that there was a significant main effect of Bingo on pupils achievement in mathematics (F(1, 110) = 3.327; partial η2 = 0.131).There was a significance main effect of quantitative ability (F(1, 110) = 0.603; partial η2 = 0.206) on pupils achievement in mathematics. The high quantitative ability pupils (56.904) benefited from the treatment package more than their counterpart (31.451). There was significant two-way interaction effect of Bingo game and quantitative ability of the participants (F(2, 106) = 1.543; partial η2 = 0.214) in favour of high quantitative ability pupils from Bingo game instructional strategy. The participants in Bingo game (14.07) had a higher mean value than their counterparts in the control (6.61). Bingo game instructional strategy improved pupils’ achievement in mathematics. Primary school mathematics teachers should try to adopt this strategy in their teaching delivery.
Preferred Learning Style of Students of Nangkor Central School, Bhutan
Authors: Timisina Prem Prasad , Tschewang Ugyen , Tshering Nima , Sherab Rinchen , Dawa Karma , Dorji Tschering , Tashi Phurba
Published: February 2022

Students preferentially absorb and process information in diverse ways. Pedagogy should vary accordingly. The knowledge of teachers on the learners’ preferred learning styles plays a pivotal role in better teaching and learning processes, contributing to a better-quality education. Still, little is known about the preferred learning style of learners. In the present study, the VARK (visual, aural, read or write, kinaesthetic) model version 8.01 survey questionnaire was adapted and given to 215 middle and higher secondary students. Using descriptive analysis of correlation, frequency and percentage, the study revealed that the preferred learning styles of students are aural (A) and kinaesthetic (K) with the smallest preference given to visual (V). The findings showed that male and female participants’ preferences were the same, and that high-achiever learners prefer K. Recommendations from the findings apply to both the classroom and teacher training opportunities.
Leveraging Virtual Learning Environments to Strengthen Pre-Service Early Childhood Teacher Preparation: Program Pivots Due to COVID-19 Empowers Future Practice
Authors: Christenson Lea Ann , Cawley Hannah , Daniels Janese
Published: February 2022

This critical reflection illuminates the planning, delivery, and evaluation of the ‘pivots’ an early childhood teacher preparation program made in response to the shift to virtual learning necessitated by the lock down measures prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The challenge was to shift two undergraduate courses from in person to a virtual format, including an inperson internship to an entirely virtual experience while maintaining a high-quality program which meets the certification requirements and professional standards. The process of moving the courses and internship to a virtual setting gave us the unique opportunity to step back and reflect on the essential conceptual knowledge and understandings necessary for teacher candidates to meet professional standards leading to certification and to becoming competent and caring professionals. Results of our critical reflection include lessons learned by the two instructors and department chair on the effective leveraging of technology to meet the challenges posed by COVID-19 leading to modifications to our program post pandemic.
HyFlex Course Delivery: Addressing the Change in Course Modality Brought on by the Pandemic
Authors: Wilson Tonia J. , Alexander Melina
Published: February 2022

Teacher preparation programs need quality training courses that offer flexible, interactive alternatives to isolating online courses and classroom-based programs that limit students to a specific place and time. The HyFlex course design provides a solution by combining internet video instruction (such as Zoom), regular online learning, and face-to-face classroom experiences into one course where students can choose the method that best meets their individual learning needs and even alternate between methods throughout the course session. HyFlex aligns with learner centered instruction and offers a unique opportunity for educators to receive quality licensure courses. This article explores existing literature on the HyFlex course delivery method and discusses a case study done to examine student outcomes resulting from its use in a post-baccalaureate special education teacher licensure program.
Culturally Responsive Practices in a Diverse Elementary Classroom: A Case Study
Authors: Vakil Shernavaz , Smolen Lynn Atkinson , Campbell Jennifer , Alexander Melina
Published: February 2022

The population in the US continues to grow more diverse leaving schools to face the challenge of meeting the needs of students from varied linguistic backgrounds. In order to create successful learning experiences for English learners from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, teachers need to be educated in culturally responsive pedagogy including understanding their students’ backgrounds, creating positive learning environment, using culturally relevant strategies, and fostering positive home school relations. This article presents a single participant case study as described by Merriam (2009), where one teacher provides her experience implementing culturally responsive practices in her classroom after participating in a TESOL (teaching English to speakers of other languages) professional development program.
About this issue
Authors: Taylor Leanne , Mower DeeDee , Byrd David
Published: February 2022

From the Editors: About this issue
Insights into Engineering Education Teaching Practice in Slovenian Primary Schools during the Covid-19 Pandemic: Distance Learning Model
Authors: Urankar Bernarda , Jamšek Janez
Published: February 2022

When the Covid-19 pandemic started in March 2020, the educational process had to be redesigned to meet current needs. At the Faculty of Education of the University of Ljubljana, pre-service engineering and technology teachers (3rd and 4th years of undergraduate two-subject teachers’ study programme) are obliged to complete a teaching practice in educational institutions and submit a teaching practice diary. Due to the closure of primary schools, the teaching practice was transformed to distance/online practice. This empirical study examines a recently developed intuitive model for distance learning, which took place during the teaching practice. Teaching practice diaries served as an instrument for gathering data. The sample size encompasses 56 lesson plan activities for the compulsory primary school Design and Technology subject for students aged 12–15 years at 15 primary schools in different parts of Slovenia carried out during online teaching practice by 11 pre-service technology teachers in the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 academic years. The research methodology is focused on lesson-type determination and model elements analysis in lesson plan making and implementation activity. Distance learning model elements are evaluated with regard to online/offline learning tools from e-learning platforms to engineering education field-specific tools (e.g., technical drawings and electric circuits). Online teaching practice was as new for pre-service technology teachers and teacher-mentors as online learning was new for students. The advantages and disadvantages are highlighted. Furthermore, the distance learning model from the first Covid-19 wave teaching practice was adapted to challenge the second Covid-19 wave. The pandemic has enabled the rise of blended learning, which has been gaining focus in secondary and higher education levels in recent years; however, it encountered obstacles when entering the primary school domain. How to encompass blended learning into the evolved distance learning model will be shown.
Arquitectura, territorio y naturaleza. De la utopía de Broadacre City a la estancia y el jardín en Charlottenhof
Authors: Ramos-Carranza Amadeo , Añón-Abajas Rosa María
Published: February 2022

Este artículo aborda una relación entre arquitectura, territorio y naturaleza, a través de proyectos y obras aparentemente distantes y heterogéneos: por una parte, el modelo de sociedad que Wright propuso para Broadacre City y, por otra, las intervenciones que Schinkel y Lenné realizaron en Charlottenhof. Con ello se pretende observar la capacidad de la arquitectura para crear situaciones en sintonía con el territorio y la naturaleza. Este análisis combinado de proyectos y obras revela el valor de los modelos urbanos a gran escala, a pesar de su dificultad para llevarlos a cabo, y el potencial de las pequeñas arquitecturas, capaces de controlar el espacio abierto y trasladar al jardín, como primera naturaleza antropizada, los ideales y expectativas pensados y diseñados a escala territorial. Analizados mediante el dibujo, los proyectos y obras de Wright y Schinkel muestran la simbiosis alcanzada entre arquitectura, territorio y naturaleza y encuentran en las infraestructuras, en el orden geométrico y en las condiciones geográficas, los argumentos que sostienen la validez de los espacios generados entre arquitectura y naturaleza.
La casa como fragmento de naturaleza. Tres mecanismos de la arquitectura japonesa contemporánea
Authors: López del Río Alberto
Published: February 2022

Para la cultura tradicional japonesa, la casa no puede entenderse sin su vinculación con la naturaleza, hecho que está presente en la configuración de la vivienda y en el valor simbólico de ciertos elementos constructivos. Esto queda reflejado, a principios del siglo XX, en los escritos de algunos autores occidentales que visitaron el país, y en otros de autores japoneses, contraponiendo estas cualidades tan apreciadas de la casa tradicional a los rápidos y sustanciales cambios que se estaban produciendo en la cultura, y por ende en la arquitectura, japonesas. A lo largo del siglo XX, la adopción de las técnicas y lenguajes de occidente y la búsqueda de un lenguaje propio, propiciaron que el interés por la casa y su relación con la naturaleza se alejaran de los principales focos de atención arquitectónicos. No será hasta finales del siglo XX y principios del XXI que la importancia de esta relación vuelva a ser reivindicada por diversos autores, que la colocarán en el centro de las inquietudes proyectuales de algunas de sus obras. En cierto sentido, estas actitudes se verán influidas por los ideales presentes en la tradición, pero sin que prevalezca una imitación del referente. Será a través de la generación nuevos mecanismos proyectuales, tres de los cuales recogeremos en este texto, que se retomará esa búsqueda del acercamiento entre naturaleza y arquitectura.
COLIN ST. JOHN WILSON - La otra tradición de la arquitectura moderna. El proyecto inacabado
Authors: Flores Soto José Antonio
Published: February 2022

Colin St. John Wilson La otra tradición de la arquitectura moderna. El proyecto inacabadoTraducción de Jorge SainzBarcelona: Reverté, 2021. 192 pp. Tapa blanda. Idioma: español. 24,90 €ISBN: 978-84-291-2309-8
Using multiple linear regression to analyze changes in forest area: the case study of Akdeniz Region
Authors: BAŞARAN Neşe , KÜÇÜK MATCI Dilek , AVDAN Uğur
Published: February 2022

Forest area losses are one of the most significant changes in land cover. These losses negatively affect ecosystems and cause severe economic and social life problems. It is necessary to monitor the process carefully and analyze the effects well to minimize all these negative effects in forest land losses and improve the development in urban areas positively. It is of great importance that these analyses are carried out quickly and accurately in terms of developing the natural environment. In this study, the effects that cause forest losses in the Mediterranean Region over the years are examined with the data obtained with the Google Earth Engine (GEE). Within the scope of the study, the changes in forest areas in the Mediterranean Region between 2004 and 2019 have been examined by considering many factors. In the study, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), precipitation, temperature, land surface temperature, aerosol optical depth, ozone, fire, urban areas, and population data were obtained with GEE. The data obtained were analyzed statistically, and the factors affecting the losses in forest areas the most were determined.
Impact of land use/land cover on land surface temperature and its relationship with spectral indices in Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt
Authors: MORSY Salem , HADI Mashaan
Published: February 2022

Land surface temperature (LST) is a direct impact of urbanization and a crucial factor in global climate and land cover changes. In this research, we aim to identify the impact of land use/land cover (LULC) on LST as well as analyze the relationship between LST and three spectral indices using linear, polynomial and multiple regression models. The LST was first retrieved from Landsat imagery using single-channel algorithm. Afterwards, LULC maps were developed using maximum likelihood (ML) classifier and three spectral indices, namely Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI). Finally, regression analysis was conducted to model the relationship between LST and the three spectral indices. Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS imagery of year 2019 of Dakahlia Governorate in Egypt was processed for LST retrieval as well as LULC classification. The ML classifier achieved an overall accuracy and kappa coefficient of 95.14% and 0.857, respectively, while of those based on spectral indices were 94.86% and 0.777, respectively. The results demonstrated an average temperature of 35.8°C, 31.2°C and 27.6°C for urban, vegetation and water, respectively. The LST statistics difference between classification methods of the three land covers was less 2°C. Based on the regression analysis, the NDVI and NDWI indicated a negative correlation with LST, while the NDBI indicated a positive correlation with LST. The polynomial regression analysis of LST against NDVI and NDWI demonstrated a better coefficient of determination (R2) than linear regression analysis of 0.341 and 0.305, respectively. For NDBI, linear and polynomial regression analysis demonstrated very close R2 of 0.624 and 0.628, respectively. The multiple regression analysis of LST against NDVI, NDBI and NDWI revealed R2 of 0.699. Consequently, the three spectral indices can be used as effective indicators for separating terrain into different classes, and hence relate their LST.
RUSSIA AND OTHER COUNTRIES IN THE GLOBAL FRUIT AND BERRY MARKET
Authors:   Timirâzevskaâ selʹskohozâjstvennaâ akademiâ, AGIRBOV YU.I. , ROMANYUK M.A. , ZHANCHAROVA G.K.
Published: February 2022

Among other countries of the world, Russia is one of the crucial subjects of the world market for fruit and berry produce. The objects of this market are numerous types of fruits, berries, and nuts. Most of them have been known to man since ancient times and have been in international trade since the first civilizations. The kiwi, for example, was cultivated relatively recently and did not appear on the world market until the second half of the 20th century. The development of technologies for the production, storage, processing, and transportation of fruit and berry produce and foreign economic liberalization increased both global gross harvests of fruits, berries and nuts, and the corresponding parameters of their export and import. These trends have significantly intensified in the last thirty years. By the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations’ statistics (FAO) of 1992–2019, the authors analyzed the changed volumes of production, export, and import of fruit and berry produce in the world as a whole, as well as in individual leading countries. A change in the positions of some countries, including Russia, was revealed in the global rankings on gross harvest, exports, and imports. Although in 2019, our country ranked only the 31st in the world in terms of fruit and berry production, Russia is one of the world’s largest importers of fruits, berries, and nuts. For example, in 2003–2014 it followed the USA and Germany by this indicator. In 2014–2018 it was the fourth country. In 2019, Russia moved to fifth place in this rating of the leading importers of fruit and berry produce. In 2020, FAO declared 2021 the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables. In this regard, the stated problem of identifying our country’s place in the world market for fruit and berry produce is very relevant both from the point of view of its participation in global production volumes and the parameters of international trade in these types of goods.
DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW POTATO VARIETY IN THE MIDDLE PRE-URAL REGION
Authors:   Timirâzevskaâ selʹskohozâjstvennaâ akademiâ, VLASEVSKAYA E.А. , КASIMOVA Е.А.
Published: February 2022

Purposeful breeding allows scientists to create a variety with good quality and high productivity.Such variety is the cheapest, fastest, and most affordable means of increasing production efficiency in potato farming. The article contains materials of breeding work to create a new potato variety. The research aims to create a high-yielding potato variety adapted to the conditions of the Middle Pre-Ural region, possessing a complex of biological and economically valuable traits. The tuber is elongated, oval, smooth; the tuber color is red; the flesh is creamy; eyes are small, superficial, uncolored. The mass of tubers per bush is 419–598 g; the number of tubers is 13–18 pcs. The average yield in 2014–2016 was 31.3 t/ha. The variety is resistant to golden potato nematode and potato wart disease. Resistance to late blight is 7–8 points.
Co-circulation of SARS-CoV-2 Alpha and Gamma variants in Italy, February and March 2021
Authors: Stefanelli Paola , Trentini Filippo , Guzzetta Giorgio , Marziano Valentina , Mammone Alessia , Sane Schepisi Monica , Poletti Piero , Molina Grané Carla , Manica Mattia , del Manso Martina , Andrianou Xanthi , Ajelli Marco , Rezza Giovanni , Brusaferro Silvio , Merler Stefano ,   COVID-19 National Microbiology Surveillance Study Group
Published: February 2022

Background

Several SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC) have emerged through 2020 and 2021. There is need for tools to estimate the relative transmissibility of emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 with respect to circulating strains.

Aim

We aimed to assess the prevalence of co-circulating VOC in Italy and estimate their relative transmissibility.

Methods

We conducted two genomic surveillance surveys on 18 February and 18 March 2021 across the whole Italian territory covering 3,243 clinical samples and developed a mathematical model that describes the dynamics of co-circulating strains.

Results

The Alpha variant was already dominant on 18 February in a majority of regions/autonomous provinces (national prevalence: 54%) and almost completely replaced historical lineages by 18 March (dominant across Italy, national prevalence: 86%). We found a substantial proportion of the Gamma variant on 18 February, almost exclusively in central Italy (prevalence: 19%), which remained similar on 18 March. Nationally, the mean relative transmissibility of Alpha ranged at 1.55–1.57 times the level of historical lineages (95% CrI: 1.45–1.66). The relative transmissibility of Gamma varied according to the assumed degree of cross-protection from infection with other lineages and ranged from 1.12 (95% CrI: 1.03–1.23) with complete immune evasion to 1.39 (95% CrI: 1.26–1.56) for complete cross-protection.

Conclusion

We assessed the relative advantage of competing viral strains, using a mathematical model assuming different degrees of cross-protection. We found substantial co-circulation of Alpha and Gamma in Italy. Gamma was not able to outcompete Alpha, probably because of its lower transmissibility.
Оцінка сучасного стану осушуваних та деградованих ґрунтів Західного Полісся
Authors: Havrylyuk Volodymyr , Bortnik Andrii , Melymuka Roman
Published: February 2022

У роботі проаналізовано й оцінено якість агроекологічного стану ґрунтового покриву осушуваних та деградованих земель зони Західного Полісся, з метою підвищення, а подекуди й відновлення родючості цих земель. Визначено екологічну ситуа-цію досліджуваних ґрунтів за результатами отриманих аналізів стосовно вмісту радіоактивних сполук, зокрема цезію-137, проведе-но дослідження задля визначення вмісту важких металів у ґрунтовому покриві та здійснено агрохімічний аналіз ґрунту.За результатами досліджень встановлено, що: 1) навіть у зоні радіаційного забруднення не спостерігаються землі із надзви-чайною екологічною ситуацією, а показники не перевищують 15,1 Бк/м2; 2) важкі метали не перевищують гранично допустимі но-рми, а подекуди перебувають у дуже малих кількостях та потребують поповнення; 3) для підвищення продуктивності осушуваних земель потрібно підвищувати вміст елементів живлення у ґрунтовому покриві, адже вміст азоту у ґрунті на дуже низькому та низь-кому рівні, вміст фосфору коливається від дуже низьких до середніх значень, а вміст калію є нижчим за середні значення.Також проведено дослідження, спрямовані на визначення реакції ґрунтового середовища. Результати аналізів показали знач-ну неоднорідність, оскільки показники коливалися від дуже кислих до слаболужних показників, проте більшість досліджуваних ґрунтів характеризується середньокислою та слабокислою реакцією ґрунтового середовища.
A review of several myopathy related to mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Nan Wang , Motuziuk Oleksandr , Davydenko Dmytro
Published: February 2022

The balance of protein production and consumption in muscles depends to a large extent on normal mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial dysfunction is inseparable from the occurrence of myopathy. This study explores the relationships between statin-induced myopathy, steroid myopathy, and skeletal muscle illness caused by alcohol addiction, as well as the relationship between these conditions and mitochondrial abnormalities.Web of Science (WOS) central archive was analyzed for alcoholic myopathy research papers from 1999 to 2021, CiteSpace and WOS databases were used for evaluation the number of written articles, distribution of publications by region, research organizations, co-cited lit-erature analysis, and keyword identification.A total of 1,255 publications were collected after screening, with the number of published articles continually increasing. The annual average number of publications is 54.56. Six countries publish the majority of the literature. The United States has published 383 papers in total, which places it first among all countries. It also has the most centrality, meaning that other countries value its scientific achievements more. There are 34 core authors and 238 papers published. Through cluster analysis, there are 9 categories that are significant clusters. Key words of co-occurrence research show that keywords such as nanoparticles, apoptosis, mitochondrial disorders, and inflammation are very common.
Особливості якісних та кількісних показників крові в осіб із захворюванням серцево-судинної системи
Authors: Kachynska Tetіana , Lysyuk Tetiana , Lavrenuk Natalia , Timoshchuk Anna , Vovk Valentina , Kotsan Ihor
Published: February 2022

Мета дослідження полягага у вивченні якісних та кількісних показників системи крові в осіб із діагнозом ішемічна хвороба серця та інфаркт міокарду. Вибірка досліджуваних склала 40 осіб жіночої статі, віком 36-60 років, які проживали на території Волинської області. Всі досліджувані були поділені на 2 групи: І – жінки із діагнозом ішемічна хвороба серця (20 осіб); ІІ – жінки із діагнозом інфаркт міокарда (20 осіб). Згідно з результатами аналізувалися клінічні показники крові.

Було показано, що у жінок зрілого віку, які мають порушення в роботі серця найбільш чутливими до дії захворювання були показники крові: кількість еритроцитів, тромбоцитів, гемоглобіну, значення гематокриту та швидкості осідання еритроцитів, індекс розправлення еритроцита, а серед параметрів лейкоцитарної формули – нейтрофіли. Досліджувані із хворобою інфаркт міокарду характеризуються гіршими, по відношенню до «норми», значеннями, порівняно із пацієнтками із діагнозом ІХС.
Effect of adaptogen lithium ascorbate on the microbiota of rumen in young ewes
Authors: Ostrenko K. S. , Koloskova E. M. , Ezerskij V. V. , Ovcharova A. N. , Belova N. V. , Il’ina L. A. , Jyldyrym E. A. , Laptev G. Yu.
Published: February 2022

Health and productivity of ruminants directly depend on the state of rumen and digestion in intestinal tract. Normal microflora protects the body from pathogenic microbes, stimulates the immune system, participates in metabolic reactions and plays an important role in energy metabolism. Disturbance of species composition of microflora in rumen under effect of various factors leads to a state of dysbiosis, disorders of products digestibility, changes in enzymatic processes and other disorders. Biologically active substances of an adaptogenic nature can show immunomodulatory and antimicrobial activity. Adaptogen lithium ascorbate has stress-protective, neurotrophic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, immunomodulatory properties. In this paper, using molecular genetic methods, the effect of lithium ascorbate on composition of rumen microbiota of sheep was studied for the first time.  Composition of microbiota was determined by NGS sequencing method. In total, 37 phylums, 76 classes, 98 orders, 225 families and 894 species of microorganisms were identified. It has been determined that introduction of lithium ascorbate at a dose of 10 mg/kg of body weight into the main diet of sheep contributed to increase in proportion of cellulolytic bacteria from 73.6±1.6% to 75.4±0.9% and over 40% decrease in total number of infusoria in rumen content. Cellulolytic activity of rumen fluid in sheep of the experimental group increased by 38% compared to the animals of the control group. The number of pathogenic bacteria decreased from 2.7% in sheep of the control group to 1.6% in animals of the experimental group, while the content of beneficial bacilli increased from 0.3% to 0.5%, respectively. Content of undesirable and conditionally pathogenic microflora decreased in the sheep of experimental group. The obtained data confirm positive effect of adaptogen lithium ascorbate, introduced into diet at a dosage of 10 mg/kg of body weight, on qualitative and quantitative composition of microbiota in sheep rumen. Therefore, lithium ascorbate, a broad-spectrum adaptogen, can be recommended as a feed additive to the main diet of sheep to improve rumen digestion and increase productivity.
Genetic specificity of the white-headed ukrainian breed according to the BоLA-DRB3 gene
Authors: Suprovych T. M. , Biriukova O. D. , Suprovych M. P. , Chepurna V. A. , Karchevska T. M. , Kolodii V. A. , Lesniak Yu. I.
Published: February 2022

The study of the genetic specificity of local breeds is a promising direction in the context of preserving the biodiversity of cattle breeds in the world. The purpose of research was to analyze the allelic polymorphism of the BoLA-DRB3 gene of the White-Headed Ukrainian breed. The study was carried out with blood samples from 49 animals (11 bulls and 38 cows) of this breed. The allelic spectrum of the BoLA-DRB3 gene was detected based on two-step PCR (primers HLO-30, HLO-31 and HLO-32). Restriction was performed with endonucleases RsaI, HaeIII, BstYI. Restriction fragments were separated by electrophoresis in 9-12 % polyacrylamide gel. According to the test results, 29 alleles were detected. Seven alleles (*03, *11, *13, *15, *22, *23 and *24) were determined with a frequency of over 5 %, that was 65.3 % of the allele pool of the breed. The most common was allele *24 with a frequency of 15.3%. In the experimental sample, 37 genotypes were identified. The predominant variant was *11/*24 (16.2%). A slight excess of heterozygotes was detected (Fis = – 0.035). White-Headed Ukrainian breed is characterized by a significant level of differentiation (or specificity) according to the BoLA-DRB3 gene (Wright fixation index He = 0.959, Shannon-Wiener index H` = 2.93), that confirms the thesis of the important role of local breeds in preserving the biodiversity of genetic resources of cattle.
Factors contributing to uncertainty in decision making and strategies to reduce this uncertainty in undergraduate medical students.
Authors: Shahmain Shahzad  , Fahad Ismail
Published: February 2022

Objectives: This study aims to identify the common factors that contribute towards uncertainty in decision making in undergraduate medical students and highlights the strategies that can be used to reduce this uncertainty. Study Design: Qualitative Study. Setting: Riphah International University, Avicenna Medical and Dental College, Lahore. Period: July 2020 to September 2020. Material & Methods: Four focus groups were conducted with a total of 26 participants (2 with faculty members, 2 with final year students). Data was transcribed and analyzed using ATLAS. ti software. Thematic analysis was done. Results: Two main themes were identified: faculty related and student related reasons and strategies. The most common reason for uncertainty in decision making was a lack of knowledge while the most common strategy to reduce this uncertainty was increased patient exposure and enhancing medical knowledge. Conclusion: Uncertainty is ingrained in medical education and is commonly experienced by medical students during their interaction with patients. It is essential to identify the reasons that contribute to this uncertainty in decision making and highlight strategies that reduce it in order to foster competent and confident physicians.
Safety and efficacy of daclatasvir with sofosbuvir and ribavirin in hepatitis C virus infection: A real world experience from South Punjab, Pakistan.
Authors: Waseem Sarwar Malghani  , Farooq Mohyud Din Chaudhary  , Misbah Shahid  , Ahsan Tameez-ud-din  , Romaisa Malik  , Asma Tameez Ud Din
Published: February 2022

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SOF/DCV/RBV combination to treat CHC patients at a tertiary care hospital in South Punjab. Study Design: Prospective Study. Setting: Nishtar Medical University Multan. Period: October 2019 to August 2020. Material & Methods: Patients of CHC of any genotype were enrolled prospectively. They were treated with 12 weeks course of SOF/DCV/RBV combination. Effectiveness was evaluated by end of treatment response (ETR) and sustained virological response (SVR) at 12 and 24 weeks post-treatment. Adverse events were recorded for safety analysis. Results: We analyzed data of 102 patients of CHC (40 males and 62 females). The mean age was 40.04 + 10.22 years. Mean weight was 67.24 + 11.78 kg, while mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.32 + 4.58 kg/m2. Eighty patients belonged to low socio-economic status, while 22 belonged to middle socio-economic status. Sixty-four had a rural background, while 38 were from urban background. Seventy-four patients had no co-morbid condition; 16 (15.7%) had diabetes and 12 (11.8%) patients had co-morbid hypertension. Ninety percent of the patients did not have cirrhosis; 6% had compensated liver disease, while 4 % had decompensated liver disease. All the patients achieved undetectable HCV RNA at the end of treatment and 12 weeks after completion of treatment, while SVR at 24 weeks was achieved in 98% of patients. Only 2 patients discontinued treatment as a result of side effects. The most common side effects reported include fatigue, headache and fever. Conclusion: CHC is a grave problem in developing countries like Pakistan. The SOF/DCV/RBV combination is very effective in eradicating CHC and has a very good side effect profile as well.
Gall bladder stones disease– prediction constructs calculator.
Authors: Mukhtar Mehboob  , Manzoor Ahmed  , Zulfiqar Khosa  , Rubina Naz  , Muhammad Zubair
Published: February 2022

Objective: The objective was to calculate the constructs and determine the predictors of gall bladder stone disease. Study Design: Randomized Control study. Setting: Mohtarma Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Hospital and Sandeman Provincial Teaching Hospital Quetta. Period: 2019 to 2020. Material & Methods: A total of 392 patients were enrolled by non-probability consecutive technique from outpatient department and those referred from medicine department. The inclusion criteria were patients of any age group and gender. The exclusion criteria were the patients who were physically handicap interfering with anthropometric indices and patients suffering from hemolytic disease. The patients were divided into two groups, the disease group (patients having gall bladder stone) were 207 patients and control group (patients without gall bladder stone) were 185 patients. In all patients’ anthropometric indices and lipid profile was performed. The data was collected on prescribed proforma. The constructs were analyzed by using SPSS version 23. Results: The overall mean age of the patients was 43.97 +11.75 years. There were 355 (90.6%) female and 37 (9.4%) male. The height and weight were found significant in female patients (p – 0.012 & < 0.001 respectively). The waist circumference was significant in male (p – 0.017), while hip circumference and waist to hip ratio in female (p -0.015 & <0.001 respectively). The body mass index was above normal in female 122 (62.1%), while in male patients 7 (62.3%) in disease category. In female patients with high risk cholesterol group had 1.5 times more risk than desirable group and low level of HDL had 4 times more risk than normal level. In male patients with elevated LDL was statistically significant. Conclusion: Gall bladder stone disease predictors determinants are female in their late forties or early fifties, raised body mass index, hip circumference and waist to hip ratio and elevated cholesterol level, while male in their late forties or early fifties, raised waist circumference and elevated LDL & Triglycerides.
Job contentment among medical doctors: Warr-Cook-Wall questionnaire based study at an MTI based Tertiary Care Hospital.
Authors: Muhammad Usama  , Umair Toqueer  , Attiya Nasir Siddique  , Sana Khan  , Muhammad Basharat  , Anila Riyaz
Published: February 2022

Objective: To determine job satisfaction level of doctors working at Ayub Teaching Hospital and correlate it to factors that affect job contentment with the help of a standardized tool. Study Design: Cross-sectional Analysis study. Setting: Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad. Period: First Two Weeks of December, 2019. Material & Methods: A self-administered online questionnaire was designed on Google Forms and was used to collect data from the doctors working at the aforementioned facility for more than three months. Data regarding various sociodemographic and professional characteristics as well as respondents’ views about their job as per Warr-Cook-Wall scale were noted. Pearson’s Correlational analysis, student’s t-test and one way ANOVA were applied for data analyze. Results: Among a total of 176 doctors, mean Job Satisfaction Score (JSS) was 37.56±13.35, which is below the neutral level, showing overall discontent and only 72 (40.9%) respondents were actually satisfied with their jobs. Highest content was noted for “Colleagues & fellow workers” and “Amount of Responsibility”, among the scale’s parameters. Whereas doctors were least satisfied with their “income”. Salary had a weak but statistically significant correlation with satisfaction score. Those working at basic medical sciences departments were more satisfied (p=0.006) and so were permanent employees (p=0.024). Professors were significantly more content (p=0.005). 71% of the doctors would like to be a doctor again if given an opportunity, whereas 63.1% would leave the country to serve abroad in case they get such an opportunity. Conclusion: Most of the doctors were not satisfied with their jobs. Among many factors, dissatisfaction with pay structure seems to be the most significant one. This discontent with their jobs is probably the reason most of them are willing to leave the country and serve abroad. Thus further research on the topic should be conducted to explore and implement strategies to alleviate this dissatisfaction.
Comparison of hemorrhoidectomy by conventional technique and suture less technique.
Authors: Muhammad Bilal  , Viqar Aslam  , Khan Zaheer , Waqas Jan
Published: February 2022

Objective: To compare the surgical outcomes of hemorrhoidectomy performed by suture less with conventional technique. Study Design: Randomized Clinical Trial. Setting: DHQ Charsadda. Period: 15 May 2017 to 30 June 2018. Material & Methods: This was done on 60 admitted patients with grade 3 or grade 4 prolapsed hemorrhoids with failed conservative treatment from. These Patients were randomly assigned using sealed opaque envelopes containing computer‐generated random numbers into two groups, Group A, who would undergo scissors excision and group B would undergo diathermy without ligation. Postoperative follow up was carried till 6 months. Data were collected and analysis by using SPSS version 23. Chi square test was used to compare at level of significance <0.005. Results: Median age of Group A was 52 years with range 33-65 while In group B age ranged from 34-65 with a median age was 51 years. Length of hospital stay in both groups ranged 1-5 days, with a median of 3 days. Every patient experienced different pain at different levels but there was no statistical difference in the severity of postoperative pain between the two groups. Follow up results showed five subjects from Group A and two from Group B had mild anal strictures, which dilated with bulk laxatives alone. Conclusion: There are no significant differences in the surgical outcomes of hemorrhoidectomy done by both techniques.
A study on the determination of sex using lip print patterns among indigenes of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Obosi NJ , Akpantah AO , Archibong VB , Duru GO
Published: February 2022

The lip print pattern is the characteristic pattern of the wrinkles and grooves present on the labial mucosa. This study evaluated the determination of sex among indigenes of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria using lip print patterns. 100 subjects (50 males and 50 females), aged 18-25 years participated in the study. With written consent, lip prints were collected from the subjects. Samples were analyzed using Suzuki and Tsuchihashi classification of lip prints. The lip samples were analyzed as a whole and then divided into six portions Right Upper Portions, Middle Upper Portion, Left Upper Portion, Right Lower Portion, Middle Lower Portion and Left Lower Portion and analyzed differently. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and T - test analysis. The result shows that the most prevalent lip print in males considering the lip as a whole is Type I (29%) while that of the females is Type I’ (32%). In six portions, there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the lip print patterns in male and female subjects in the Right Upper Portion (25.960), Left Upper Portion (15.455) and Middle Left Portion (19.948) suggesting that these portions can be effectively used for sex determination among these indigenes. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the thickness of lip in males and in females but, the lower lip was significantly thicker (p < 0.01) than the upper lip in both gender. Results also showed that the length of lips in males was significantly longer (p < 0.01) than that of females. This study, therefore, concludes that determination of sex among indigenes of Akwa Ibom State using lip length and lip print patterns in specific portions of Right Upper Portion, Left Upper Portion and Middle Left Portion can be effectively done.
Corruption in recruitment/Iraq
Authors: Daban Sabir
Published: February 2022

Corruption in recruitment refers to hiring relatives or close friends, regardless of their merits and abilities. It is a permanent risk for the development of the organization, society and individuals itself. The aim of this study is to investigate some aspects of corrupt hiring in Iraq, as well as the forms of corrupt hiring in all public and non-public sectors. Based on the findings, the result of the research shows that in Iraq, not only the recruitment in public and private sectors are implicated with corruption, but even attaining jobs at UN department and NGOs are deeply characterized by corruption and preferential treatment.
Analysis of Coulomb Stress of Sumatera Earthquake Against Pyroclastic Flow of Mount Sinabung as Data Prone Volcano Disaster
Authors: Goldberd Harmuda Duva Sinaga  , Winarto Silaban  , Ady Frenly Simanullang
Published: February 2022

The islands of Sumatra and Sinabung are located southwest of the Sundaland Continent which is a convergence route between the Indian-Australian Plate that infiltrates to the west of the Eurasian/Sundaland Plate. The increase in activity of Mount Sinabung was preceded by large earthquakes to the west and south while the eruption of Mount Sinabung produced pyroclastics. The purpose of this study is to find out the analysis of coulomb stress from the Sumatra Island earthquake to the pyroclastic flow of Sinabung as data on volcanic disasters. This study used the coulomb stress method with coulomb 3.3. The earthquake data analyzed was Mw, depth, and focal mechanism. The results of the analysis in the form of the direction of the spread of stress and the value of increased coulomb stress in Sinabung in 2014-2016. Sinabung's positive stress coulomb value in 2014 was 0.113 bar with a positive coulomb stress spread angle of 90o against sinabung pyroclastic flow. Sinabung's positive stress coulomb value in 2015 was 0.235 bar with a positive coulomb stress spread angle of 90o against sinabung pyroclastic flow. Sinabung's positive stress coulomb value in 2016 was 0.118 bar with a positive coulomb stress spread angle of 90o against sinabung pyroclastic flow. Coulomb stress analysis affects the direction of prioclastic flow by as far as 180o although it is not the same as the results in the field. This is because the peak of Sinabung has landslides in the southeast-south, thus opening a pyroclastic flow road to the southeast-south.