bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of some hematological factors in patients with COVID-19 and vaccinated individuals in Kirkuk city
Authors: Jasim Maha Tariq , Noraldeen Mohammed Yawoz , Al-Kadi Najdat Ali
Published: March 2024

Background:

The severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-COV-2), which is considered to be the main reason of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), initiates a multisystem inflammatory condition. The COVID-19 progression is thought to be influenced by hematological abnormalities. A complete blood count (CBC) is a repeatedly used, reasonably priced, and promptly performed testing technique that may be helpful in those processes. The predominance of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism is determined by d-dimer values.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess the hematological factors in patients with COVID-19 and vaccinated individuals in Kirkuk city.

Subject and Methods:

Samples were taken from 167 participants aged 20 to 45 years, including men and women, from December 2021 to March 2022; these samples were taken randomly from patients with COVID-19 who were hospitalized and nonhospitalized, those who had received vaccine, and a control group (healthy people who do not have diseases). Samples of nasopharyngeal swabs were also collected from outpatients infected with COVID-19, and the infection was verified using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Also, PCR was done for control group and performed CBC and d-dimer tests for all samples.

Results:

Concerning to hematological tests, the outcomes have revealed significant results between study groups with WBC (P < 0.0001), RBC (P < 0.0001), lymphocyte (P < 0.0001), granulocyte (P < 0.0001), HB (P < 0.0001), HCT (P < 0.0001), MCH (P < 0.0017), PLT (P < 0.0455), and d-dimer (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Patients with COVID-19 have a reliable pattern of CBC parameter changes and normal values in the vaccinated individual.
Molecular detection of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes and viral loads in chronic hcv infected patients in Kirkuk, Iraq
Authors: Hasan Sarmad Falah , Maded Zeyad Khalaf , Alazzawy Muhannad Abdulla
Published: March 2024

Background:

Hepatitis C is a disease that has a significant global impact. The World Health Organization estimates that over 150 million people are chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV).

Objectives:

The purpose of the study was to make a quantitative determination of the hepatitis C viral load and genotype using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and to determine how these factors relate to the HCV chronicity.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional hospital-based study was carried out in Kirkuk city, Iraq. A total of 50 patients with chronic hepatitis C whose ages ranged from 20 to 75 years were the subjects of the study. The control group consisted of 30 apparently healthy persons admitted to the blood bank for blood donation. Five milliliters of blood were drawn for the molecular detection of HCV load and genotype by RT-PCR, detection of hepatitis C antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and biochemical analysis of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total serum bilirubin (TSB).

Results:

According to the research, 86% of chronic hepatitis C patients with ELISA-detected anti-HCV obtained positive PCR results. Statistically significant (P = 0.01). According to the study, more chronic hepatitis C patients (31 out of 43) had genotype 4 HCV than genotype 1a (27.91%). According to the study, genotype 4 chronic hepatitis C patients exhibited significantly higher viral loads than genotype 1a patients (1901.3 vs. 1693.41 IU/mL; P = 0.01). About 41.94% of men and 58.06% of females with chronic hepatitis C had genotype 4, whereas 33.3% of males and 66.67% of females had genotype 1a. Chronic hepatitis C patients had higher ALT, AST, ALP, and TSB levels than the control group, and the difference was very significant. ALT values were 64.69, 54.8, 285.5, and 4.33 mg/dL. This study found a connection between chronic hepatitis C viral load and ALT, AST, ALP, and TSB levels. Viral load rose as fibrosis progressed, according to this study. Patients without fibrosis had the lowest mean viral load (1235.5 IU/mL), followed by those with stage 1 fibrosis, whereas cirrhosis (stage 4) had the highest (2088.1 IU/mL). Non-fibrotic patients had the lowest virus burden.

Conclusions:

Genotype 4 of HCV was the most predominant genotype in Kirkuk city and there was a strong positive correlations of ALT and viral load with stages of fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C.
Identifying the effect of vitamin D on the HbA1c in patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Mosul city
Authors: Adil Mohammad Azhar , Zaki Bakr Osamah , Daood Ismail I
Published: March 2024

Background:

Diabetes mellitus causes metabolic disturbances and defectiveness in most tissues and cells of the body, especially in the nerves, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and other body tissues. It is known that type 2 diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent diseases in the city of Mosul, due to several reasons, such as excessive carbohydrate intake, psychological disorders, obesity, and lack of exercise. Because of these and other reasons, there was a need to conduct scientific research to clarify the main reasons for diabetes, modify the method of treatment and change the lifestyle to avoid falling into these chronic diseases.

Objective:

Studying the effect of vitamin D deficiency on patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus for the population of Mosul city for the purpose of modifying the metabolism in the body.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty eight study subjects were collected from patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (diagnosed by a specialist and HbA1c test results) with 20 control samples of approximately the same ages and body mass index. Thereafter, We have investigate the durations of improving vitamin D for more than one year and record all medical history of the patients. Eleven study subjects were excluded due to drug interactions. Forty nine subjects of a study comprised 33 females and 16 males who were included in the study after making sure that they did not take medication. None of them were pregnant or breastfeeding. Their mean age was (51.8 ± 0.2 years) and their mean BMI was (26.8 ± 0.5). The examination was carried out using immunofluorescence and dry chemistry using the I CHROMA TM II device with the materials of the device, which were provided by the manufacturer with all the materials for calibration and quality control.

Results:

Forty nine study subjects were examined by HbA1c and vitamin D level by immunofluorescence technique, and the mean results were (9.3 ± 0.1%) for HbA1c and (14.3 ± 1 ng/mL) for vitamin D. After treatment with vitamin D for 1 month. The results showed a good improvement in the results of the HbA1c examination, as their average results were (7.1 ± 0.1%), with an improvement in the results of the vitamin D examination by (48.8 ± 1 ng/mL).

Conclusions:

There was a clear improvement in the level of sugar in the blood of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus after treatment with vitamin D and an improvement in its level in the blood.
Prevalence of asthma control in adult patients in Kirkuk City
Authors: Kamal Bilal Jamal , Khalaf Mohammed Ali
Published: March 2024

Background:

Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases that is widely prevalent worldwide affecting different age groups. Many factors are involved in the pathogenesis and there are many trigger factors that can precipitate acute attacks or interfere with the disease control. Disease controlling inhalers are required to be taken for long duration to control the symptoms, and this is a real problem with the patients to maintain remission and prevent relapse or deterioration in the lung function.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to know the prevalence of asthma control in adult patients in Kirkuk city.

Materials and Methods:

Two thousand and five hundreds asthmatic patients were collected from Azadi teaching hospital and private clinics at Kirkuk city during the period from January 2017 to October 2022 (1775 were men and 725 were women. A proper history was taken from the patients regarding the duration of the asthma, treatment used and compliance, smoking, and presence or absence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The body mass index (BMI) of the patients was also measured. Regarding the asthma control during the past 4 weeks, this was assessed by using the asthma control test.

Results:

From the total 2500 asthmatic patients: 2280 (91.2%) were not well-controlled, 220 (8.8%) at least well-controlled, 1590 (63.9%) of patients were on treatment, 1370 (86%) of those on treatment were not well-controlled, and 220 (14%) were at least well-controlled. Obesity, smoking, passive smoking GERD, and non-adherence to inhalers are all associated with poorly controlled asthma.

Conclusion:

The study shows that most of the asthmatic patients with uncontrolled smoking exposure, GERD, obesity, and non-adherence to controlling inhalers were significantly associated factors. Most of the patients were not on regular controlling inhaler therapy. Rejection of the diagnosis, cost, and technique were all causes for the non-adherence to disease-controlling inhalers.
Possible roles of human cytomegalovirus immunoglobulin G and its avidity to specific human cytomegalovirus antigens in the prevention of abortion among pregnant women
Authors: Qader Staar Mohammed , Al-Azzawy Muhannad Abdullah , Tawfiq Sanarya Kamal
Published: March 2024

Background:

The human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a widespread viral pathogen characterized by strict host specificity and is limited to humans. It has been described as an important etiological agent of intrauterine infection during the pregnancy, that causes lifelong infection and may lead to some serious results such as miscarriage, cerebellar malformation stillbirth, and fetus developmental retardation.

Objectives:

The study was carried out in Kirkuk governorate from the August 2021 to April 2022 to analyze the seroprevalence of HCMV-immunoglobulin G (IgG) against some HCMV antigens and its relation to the history of abortion.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 220 pregnant women were examined for the seroprevalence of HCMV-IgG by using electro-chemo-luminescence technique and then examined their reactivity and avidity for specific HCMV antigens using line immune assay.

Results:

The findings of the study showed that among 120 HCMV-IgG seropositive pregnant women, the rates of IgG antibodies were 161 (73.18%). In terms of reactivity and avidity of HCMV-IgG against different HCMV antigens, the rates were as follows: 67 (55.83%) for HCMV IE1, 52 (43.33%) for CM2, 116 (96.66%) for p150, 68 (56.66%) for p65, 117 (97.5%) for gB1, and 82 (68.33%) for gB2 antigens. Among pregnant women with no previous history of abortion, the prevalence of HCMV-IgG reactivity against gB2 was 75.60%. Furthermore, the rates of HCMV-IgG avidity for HCMV antigens were 90.24% for CM2 and 83.05% for p65 antigens.

Conclusions:

This finding may refer to the possible role of the specificity of HCMV-IgG and its high avidity for specific HCMV antigens in the prevention of abortion among pregnant women infected with HCMV infection.
Modeling Approach for Hybrid Integration of Renewable Energy Sources
with Vehicle-to-Grid Technology
Authors: Al-Shetwi Ali Q.
Published: March 2024

This article presents a technical study on the integration of hybrid renewable
energy sources (RES) with vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, aiming to enhance
energy efficiency, grid stability, and mitigating power imbalances. The growing
adoption of RES and electric vehicles (EV) necessitates innovative solutions to
mitigate intermittency and optimize resource utilization. The study’s primary
objective is to design and analyze a hybrid distribution generation system
encompassing solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind power stations, along with a
conventional diesel generator, connected to the utility grid. A V2G system is
strategically embedded within the microgrid to facilitate bidirectional power
exchange between EV and the grid. Methodologically, MATLAB/Simulink®
2021a is employed to simulate the system’s performance over one day. This
research addresses a critical research gap in comprehensively evaluating the
synergy between hybrid RES and V2G technology within a microgrid context. The
study contributes by demonstrating the potential of EVs as dynamic energy
storage units, effectively mitigating the intermittency of renewable energy (RE)
and supporting grid stability. This is achieved by injecting or absorbing energy
to address frequency deviation events and improve power flow based on demand
needs and generated power from the source. The results highlight the capability
of the V2G system to optimize energy flow, regulate grid frequency, and
alleviate power imbalances. Main findings underscore the significant role of V2G
in enhancing grid resilience and flexibility, especially during RE fluctuations
and unexpected events. Moreover, the study underscores the feasibility of
achieving sustainable energy goals through the coordinated operation of hybrid
RES and V2G systems.
The Impact Of Outsourcing on Hotel Efficiency and Performance
Authors: Wangsa Vanessa , Erwen Ivana Valencia , Natasha Sharren , Shielline Patricia , Poluan Regina Calista , Wulandari Nuraeni , Kalfin Kalfin
Published: March 2024

Outsourcing has become a commonly used strategy in the hotel industry to improve operational efficiency and hotel performance. Hotel performance is very important in maintaining the quality of service provided to consumers. Therefore, this research aims to find out the impact of the use of outsourcing on the efficiency and performance of hotels in the Gading Serpong area. In this research, the data used is hotel data in Gading Serpong. The method used in the research is a qualitative method. Based on the research results, it was found that outsourcing has a big influence on hotel efficiency and performance. The number of hotels in the Gading Serpong area is 8 hotels with a classification of 1 to 5 stars. Every hotel in the Gading Serpong area uses outsourcing as a resource to help meet customer satisfaction by increasing hotel efficiency and performance. These findings provide valuable insights for hotel managers in designing strategies to improve their efficiency and performance. As a result, it is hoped that this research can become an important reference for the hotel industry, especially for hotel managers in the Gading Serpong area, in optimizing the use of outsourcing to improve customer experience and strengthen their market position.
The Effect of Training and Career Development on Company Performance: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Fabian Natanael Tio , Kirani Agnes Neisha , Dewi Puja Kalima , Gracia Ribka , Loei Jonathan , Muyandi Muhammad Rachman , Kalfin
Published: March 2024

Company performance in the business era is something that needs to be considered in maintaining the continuity of a company. Training and career development are one of the variables that affect company performance. Therefore, this study will look at the effect of training and career development on employee performance based on literature review. In this study using article data that has been published in google scholar indexed journals from 2013-2023. This study uses a systematic literature review method in obtaining the expected results. Based on the results of the analysis obtained that training and career development have a role in improving employee performance. Training on employee performance has an important relationship. With training, employees can develop skills, as well as various kinds of new knowledge. Along with the training conducted by the company, the performance produced by employees will also increase which will affect the development of the company. Likewise, with career development in the company, it will trigger employee enthusiasm to work harder, motivate employees, and attract employees to work for a long time in the company.  Based on the results of this study, it is hoped that it can be a reference for companies in improving employee performance. Of course, by paying attention to variables of training and career development.
Digital Health Literacy and Telemedicine in the Information Age: A Comprehensive Review and Future Prospects
Authors: Azahra Astrid Sulistya , Pirdaus Dede Irman , Prabowo Agung
Published: March 2024

In the digital era, advances in information technology have penetrated various aspects of life, including the health sector. This article reviews the importance of health literacy and digital literacy in facing the challenges of health information that is easily produced and disseminated in the digital world. Telemedicine or e-health is in the main spotlight in facilitating access to health services, while this research introduces a health literacy model with three level including functional, interactive, and critical. Digital literacy is described as a key skill in understanding, evaluating, and wisely utilizing online health information. The article also discusses the role played by the government and society in overcoming the spread of hoaxes and increasing digital literacy. Thus, by increasing health literacy and digital literacy, it is hoped that people can access correct health information and avoid misinformation, which will ultimately contribute to improving quality of life and welfare. In an increasingly digitally connected world, the ability to critically sort information and use technology wisely is key to maintaining the health and well-being of society. Therefore, joint efforts between the government, health institutions and the community in increasing health literacy and digital literacy are very important to face this ever-growing digital era.
In the digital era, advances in information technology have penetrated various aspects of life, including the health sector. This article reviews the importance of health literacy and digital literacy in facing the challenges of health information that is easily produced and disseminated in the digital world. Telemedicine or e-health is in the main spotlight in facilitating access to health services, while this research introduces a health literacy model with three level including functional, interactive, and critical. Digital literacy is described as a key skill in understanding, evaluating, and wisely utilizing online health information. The article also discusses the role played by the government and society in overcoming the spread of hoaxes and increasing digital literacy. Thus, by increasing health literacy and digital literacy, it is hoped that people can access correct health information and avoid misinformation, which will ultimately contribute to improving quality of life and welfare. In an increasingly digitally connected world, the ability to critically sort information and use technology wisely is key to maintaining the health and well-being of society. Therefore, joint efforts between the government, health institutions and the community in increasing health literacy and digital literacy are very important to face this ever-growing digital era.
Strategies for Anticipating Speech Production Errors in the Public Speaking Context: Psycholinguistic Analysis and Improving Public Speaking Ability
Authors: Cahyandari Rini , Vimelia Willen , Salih Yasir
Published: March 2024

This research explores and analyzes various aspects related to public speaking and speech production errors in real life contexts. Through a literature review, this research explains the types of speech production errors, their causes, and strategies to anticipate these errors. This research also links speech production errors with public speaking, highlighting the importance of psycholinguistic understanding in this regard. The research results show that anticipating speech production errors is the key to improving public speaking skills. Anticipation strategies include preparing the topic well, maintaining composure, focusing, and using familiar vocabulary. Speech production errors can disrupt the flow of a presentation, so a deep understanding of these aspects is very important in public speaking.
Rituximab for rheumatoid arthritis-related interstitial lung disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Krishna Boppana Tarun , Mittal Saurabh , Madan Karan , Mohan Anant , Hadda Vijay , Guleria Randeep
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at summarizing the evidence of efficacy and safety of rituximab in rheumatoid arthritis- related interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD).

Materials and methods: PubMed and Embase databases were searched until June 22, 2022, to identify studies on RA-ILD treated with rituximab, confined to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed on the included studies to assess the overall stabilization or improvement in ILD, changes in percent-predicted (%-predicted) forced vital capacity (FVC), and %-predicted diffusion capacity of lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) following rituximab therapy.

Results: A total of 15 studies (4 prospective and 11 retrospective studies) were included, with a total of 314 patients. There were 105 (60.7%) females out of 173 subjects for whom sex details were available from seven studies. The overall pooled proportion of patients with stabilization or improvement in ILD was 0.88 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.76-0.96, p=0.02]. Rituximab improved FVC from baseline by 7.50% (95% CI: 1.35-13.65; p=0.02, fixed effect). Similarly, rituximab improved DLCO by 6.39% (95% CI: 1.366-14.43; p=0.12, random-effect). Two retrospective studies reported reduced mortality with rituximab therapy compared to tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors.

Conclusion: Treatment with rituximab in RA-ILD was associated with a significant improvement in %-predicted FVC, as well as stabilization or improvement in ILD after one year of treatment.
The relationship between clinical parameters and ultrasonographic enthesitis assessment in patients with spondyloarthritis
Authors: Er Gunay , Palamar Deniz , Akgün Kenan , Asoğlu İbrahim , Sarı Hidayet
Published: March 2024

Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the role of ultrasonographic assessment of enthesitis in patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) in terms of disease activity, functionality, and quality of life.

Patients and methods: Ninety SpA patients (57 males, 33 females; mean age: 37.5±9.7 years; range, 18 to 60 years) were included in cross-sectional study between November 2016 and January 2017. Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), Short Form-12 (SF-12), and Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life (ASQoL) were utilized for clinical evaluation. The clinical evaluation of enthesitis was performed with the Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) and Maastricht Ankylosing Spondylitis Enthesitis Score (MASES) via an algometer calibrated to 4 kg/cm2 of pressure. Ultrasound evaluation was performed according to Madrid Sonographic Enthesitis Index (MASEI). A total of 2,610 entheseal sites were examined clinically, and 1,080 were assessed ultrasonographically.

Results: A significant proportion of enthesitis (463/1,080) was detected on ultrasonographic evaluation but not with clinical enthesitis score (MASES and SPARCC). Although ultrasonographic entheseal evaluation detected enthesitis in at least one enthesis of all patients, 35 of the patients had no enthesitis with clinical examination. The sites most frequently involved in the entheses were the proximal patellar tendon and Achilles tendon. The MASEI score did not correlate with the MASES, SPARCC, BASDAI, SF-12, and ASQoL but moderately correlated with the C-reactive protein (CRP) level (r=0.348), ASDAS-CRP (r=0.294), and BASFI score (r=0.244).

Conclusion: The association of ultrasonography scores with CRP levels and ASDAS-CRP indicates that ultrasonography is effective in detecting inflammation. The MASEI score weakly correlates with functionality but not with quality of life. Ultrasonographic evaluation is invaluable and merits to be incorporated into SpA disease scoring system.
Performance of the 2022 American College of Rheumatology/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology Classification Criteria for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis in previously diagnosed adult patients from Türkiye
Authors: Yilmaz Sedat , Kucuk Hamit , Sungur Ozgunen Merve , Can Kardas Riza , Tecer Duygu , Vasi Ibrahim , Cinar Muhammet , Akif Ozturk Mehmet
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of the new 2022 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) criteria in Turkish adult patients previously diagnosed with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV).

Patients and methods: One hundred sixty-four patients (96 males, 68 females; mean age: 49.6±14.4 years; range, 18 to 87 years) diagnosed with AAV by experienced rheumatologists between July 2016 and May 2022 were included in this retrospective cross-sectional study and reclassified based on the 1990 ACR criteria, the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) algorithm, and the 2022 ACR/EULAR criteria. For external validation, 83 patients (48 males, 35 females; mean age: 47.3±17.5 years; range, 19 to 81 years) diagnosed with immunoglobulin (Ig)A vasculitis were included.

Results: One hundred twenty-six (76.8%) patients had granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), 13 (7.9%) patients had eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), and 25 (15.2%) patients had microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). According to the criteria, the number of unclassified patients was nine (5.5%) for both the 2022 ACR/EULAR AAV classification criteria and the EMEA algorithm. The new criteria had an almost perfect agreement with the clinician's diagnosis (Cohen’s kappa coefficient [κ]=0.858 for GPA, κ=0.820 for EGPA, and κ=0.847 for MPA). The kappa statistics for agreement of 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria with the EMEA algorithm were found 0.794 for GPA, 0.820 for EGPA, and 0.700 for MPA. None of the 83 patients diagnosed with IgA vasculitis could be classified as GPA, EGPA, or MPA using the new ACR/EULAR AAV classification criteria.

Conclusion: The 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria for AAV showed substantial or perfect agreement with the clinical diagnosis and the EMEA algorithm.
The importance of speckle tracking echocardiography in the evaluation of cardiac functions in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Ebik Müşerref , Taştekin Nurettin , Gürdoğan Muhammet , Ebik Mustafa , Birtane Murat , Emmungil Hakan , Yılmazer Barış , Süt Necdet
Published: March 2024

Objectives: In this study, we aimed to analyze the layer-specific strain values obtained by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) method in the determination of subclinical cardiac dysfunction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.

Patients and methods: Between February 2019 and October 2019, a total of 63 female RA patients (mean age: 51.82±6.07 years; range, 40 and 65 years) who had a confirmed diagnosis were included. Thirty-one age-matched female healthy individuals (mean age: 50.71±5.37 years; range, 40 and 65 years) were selected as the control group. The patients were divided into three groups according to the duration of disease as <5 years, 5-10 years and >10 years. The Disease Activity Score in 28 joint - C-reactive protein (CRP) was used to determine disease activation. The standard assessment included complete serum CRP, anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide, rheumatoid factor, N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and homocysteine. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) analysis was performed with STE.

Results: The NT-proBNP values were found to be higher in RA patients compared to the control group (p=0.044). In terms of conventional echocardiographic parameters, a significant difference between E/A and E/E’ ratios was observed (p<0.001 and p=0.015). Endocardium, transmural, and epicardium GLS values obtained by STE were found to be lower in RA patients (p<0.05). The left ventricular (LV) GLS values worsened, as the duration of disease increased (p<0.05). There was a significant correlation between RA disease activity and LV GLS values, showing that increasing levels of disease activity was associated with worse LV GLS (r=0.583, p<0.01 and r=0.681, p<0.01 and r=0.689, p<0.01 for endocardium, transmural and epicardium, respectively).

Conclusion: Our study results suggest that the layer-specific GLS values obtained by STE decrease in RA patients.
COVID-19 vaccination rates and factors affecting vaccination in children with rheumatic disease
Authors: Aydın Tuncay , Özomay Baykal Gülcan , Karagöl Cüneyt , Haşlak Fatih , Oğultekin Vazgeçer Ebru , Torun Rüya , Kızıldağ Zehra , Kılıç Könte Elif , Aslan Esma , Güngörer Vildan , Çelikel Acar Banu , Sözeri Betül , Kasapçopur Özgür , Makay Balahan
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination rates and factors affecting vaccination in children with rheumatic diseases.

Patients and methods: This multicenter cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted between July 2022 and September 2022. Four hundred seventy-four patients (256 females, 218 males; median age: 15 years; interquartile range, 13 to 16 years) were included in the patient group, and 211 healthy children (124 females, 87 males; median age: 15 years; interquartile range, 13 to 16 years) were included in the control group. A questionnaire was administered to the parents face-to-face during routine outpatient visits.

Results: Of the patients, 220 were followed up with the diagnosis of autoinflammatory disease, 174 with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, 48 with connective tissue disease, 23 with vasculitis, eight with uveitis, and one with sarcoidosis. In the study group, 256 (54%) patients and 115 (54.5%) healthy children received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Parents' concern regarding potential side effects of the vaccine was the most common reason for COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy in both groups. The median patient age, follow-up period, colchicine treatment rates, childhood vaccination and influenza vaccination rates, median parental age, parental vaccination rate, and parental education level were higher in vaccinated patients (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Parents' concerns about safety and side effects were found to be the most important factors affecting vaccination success. Identification of the underlying causes of parental vaccine hesitancy will facilitate the development of effective vaccination strategies for potential future outbreaks.
Biological treatment in elderly and young patients with ankylosing spondylitis: TURKBIO real-life data results
Authors: Uslu Sadettin , Gülle Semih , Urak Özkan , Şen Gerçek , Dalkılıç Ediz , Şenel Soner , Akar Servet , İnanç Nevsun , Cefle Ayşe , Köken Avşar Aydan , Yolbaş Servet , Yılmaz Sema , Soysal Gündüz Özgül , Sarı İsmail , Birlik Merih , Akkoç Nurullah , Önen Fatoş
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the effect of age on disease activity and biological treatment in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Patients and methods: A total of 811 AS patients registered in the TURKBIO registry database between 2011 and 2019 were categorized according to their age at the time of entry into the registry and assigned to one of two groups: young patients, defined as <60 years of age (n=610), and those aged ≥60 years (n=201) were recorded as elderly patients. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics, along with disease activity markers and other follow-up parameters, as well as current and prior treatments, were electronically recorded during each visit using open-source software.

Results: The mean age of the elderly patients was 67±5.8 years, while the mean age of the younger patients was 49.2±10.9 years. Male predominance was lower in the older AS group compared to the younger AS group (p=0.002). During follow-up period, 397 patients (comprising 318 young and 79 elderly individuals) had a history of using at least one biological disease-modifying agent (bDMARD). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of DMARD and bDMARD-use distributions. First tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) retention rates were found to be similar in both groups over 10 years of follow-up. Adverse events were found to be similar in young (19.9%) and elderly (26.8%) AS patients.

Conclusion: Research in the TURKBIO cohort reveals that both older and younger patients with AS exhibited similar disease activity levels with comparable treatment approaches. Moreover, the results of TNFi treatments in elderly patients were the same as those observed in younger patients, with no notable increase in safety concerns.
Early effectiveness and safety analysis of belimumab in addition to standard treatment in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: He Lingyan , Yan Mingming , Wen Rui , Li Jiali
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the early effectiveness and safety of belimumab in addition to standard therapy in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) for 24 weeks.

Patients and methods: This retrospective study was conducted with 60 adult patients with active SLE between June 2020 and August 2022. The patients either received intravenous belimumab in addition to standard therapy (n=31; 24 females, 7 males; mean age: 33.7±14.1 years; range, 18 to 52 years) or only standard therapy (n=29; 22 females, 7 males; mean age: 34.1±13.4 years; range, 19 to 66 years) for 24 weeks. Outcome measures, including safety and effectiveness (Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment–Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index [SELENA-SLEDAI]), changes in biomarkers (double-stranded DNA [deoxyribonucleic acid]), serum complement levels, and immunoglobin G (IgG) were recorded. Adverse events were recorded.

Results: Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were similar between the two groups. More patients in the belimumab group achieved a reduction of ≥4 points in SELENA-SLEDAI at weeks 12 and 24 (week 12, 77.4% vs. 41.4%, p=0.008; week 24, 87.1% vs. 48.3%, p=0.002). The mean score of SELENA-SLEDAI was significantly lower in the belimumab group compared to the standard therapy group at week 12. However, a significant difference was not reached at week 24. Moreover, mean levels of serum C3 and C4 in the belimumab group were significantly higher than those in the standard therapy group at weeks 12 and 24. A higher proportion of patients in the belimumab group had a normal C3 level than in the standard therapy group. In addition, belimumab treatment resulted in a significant decrease in IgG levels at both weeks 12 and 24. At week 24, the belimumab group had a higher reduction in prednisone dose than the standard therapy group. Furthermore, the percentages of patients with more than 50% reduction in prednisone over baseline were significantly greater for belimumab versus standard therapy at week 12 (p=0.002). The occurrence of adverse events was similar between the two groups (standard therapy group, 44.8%; belimumab group, 51.6%).

Conclusion: Intravenous belimumab was well tolerated and significantly improved disease activity in Chinese patients with SLE at the early stage of treatment. More importantly, belimumab treatment could result in a rapid reduction in prednisone dose as early as week 12.
Evaluating the efficacy of Kahoot as a computer-assisted language learning tool in higher education
Authors: Lopatynska Iryna , Bratanych Olha , Biletska Iryna , Cherednychenko Viktoriia , Pustovoichenko Dariia
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to analyse the effectiveness of using the computer tool Kahoot for foreign language learning in higher education, as well as to address the problem of students' lack of motivation in learning English. This study hypothesised that using the Kahoot app in foreign language classes would improve students' motivation through its engaging approach. To test this hypothesis, a survey was conducted among students who had studied English using this tool. The results showed that students who used the Kahoot app in the classroom were significantly more motivated to learn English. This was made possible by the app's ability to vary the learning tool depending on the needs of the students, which encouraged their active participation in the learning process. The effectiveness of Kahoot as a tool in higher education for learning foreign languages is promising. Its engaging and interactive format, instant feedback, and collaborative learning opportunities make it a valuable tool for enhancing language learning. However, it is important for teachers to be aware of its limitations and complement it with other activities to ensure comprehensive language development. Overall, Kahoot can be a valuable addition to the language learning toolkit in higher education.
Realities of developing the research competence of teachers-philologists in wartime
Authors: Kuznetsova Halyna , Serdiuk Halyna , Bazyl Liudmyla , Vyshnyk Olha , Sobko Valentyna
Published: March 2024

The relevance of the research topic is determined by the urgent need to adapt the educational process and professional development of teachers-philologists to wartime conditions. The education sector should swiftly adjust to new realities in light of the challenges posed by the war and global changes, including making use of digital technology to provide access to high-quality education. Martial law makes adjustments not only to teaching methods but also to approaches to teachers’ professional development, emphasizing the need to integrate innovative methods and approaches. In the course of the research, it has been revealed that digital technologies play a crucial role in supporting language education in wartime by offering tools for distance learning and self-education. Innovative teaching methods, such as interactive exercises and online discussions, have been found to be effective in engaging students and motivating them to actively master the language. The reconstruction of the educational system provides an opportunity to revise and improve approaches to language teaching, with an

emphasis on integrating the experience gained during the war. This emphasizes the importance of developing targeted support programs for teachers-philologists in order to enable them to use these technologies and methodologies effectively in their practice. The research findings emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to the renovation and development of language education, with an emphasis on the role of teachers-philologists as agents of change. Ensuring their professional development, adaptation to new challenges, and engagement in intercultural communication are key elements of successful post-war reconstruction. Further studies should focus on the effectiveness of specific innovative methods in language teaching and the development of integrated professional development programs for teachers-philologists, including comprehensive support and development of the relevant competencies in the post-war period.
Analyzing pedagogical strategies for personalized learning to compensate for students' learning losses
Authors: Benkovska Natalia , Kharchenko Nataliia , Kulbach Larysa , Rabokorovka Ganna , Bolotnykova Tetiana
Published: March 2024

The article is a comprehensive study of current methods and approaches used in modern educational practice to support students facing educational difficulties. The purpose is to analyze the effectiveness of individualization and personalization of the educational process in restoring educational losses. The literature review allows us to cover the existing theoretical frameworks of individualization and personalization in education. The analysis of pedagogical practice includes case studies and expert interviews, which provides an overview of successful strategies in real educational scenarios. The article presents a literature review, including current trends in individualization and personalization of education. In addition, the authors analyze pedagogical strategies to improve the level of learning. The study identified pedagogical strategies to compensate for students' educational losses, including differentiation of instruction, use of technol ogy, individual counseling, portfolio and self-assessment, flexible assessment methods, individualized curricula, team learning, and a feedback system. The study includes an analysis of the effectiveness of technological innovations integrated into the educational process, as well as the role of socio-cultural aspects in the successful implementation of individualized approaches, and contains a statistical analysis of the collected data. The results of the study provide practical recommendations for the implementation of successful strategies in educational institutions.
Procrastinación en universitarios colombianos – un estudio a través de la Escala de Procrastinación Irracional (IPS)
Authors: Rosero Bolaños Aldayr David , Chapid Muñoz Quely Sildany , Acosta Pasaje Anggie Estefany , Portilla Ortiz Daniela
Published: March 2024

La procrastinación se entiende como el conjunto de comportamientos que involucran la postergación deliberada de la ejecución de una acción planificada, incluso cuando esto pueda generar dificultades tanto en el presente como en el futuro, impactando en múltiples facetas de la vida del individuo. En cuanto a los objetivos y el método del presente estudio, este contó con dos fases, para la primera orientada a la validación del instrumento “Escala de Procrastinación Irracional” (IPS) en población colombiana, seguido de una fase de carácter descriptivo y la generación de una baremación de los puntajes de la escala para facilitar la interpretación de los datos para futuras investigaciones. El instrumento IPS mostró adecuadas propiedades psicométricas: AFC: CMIN/gl2=2.1; CFI=0.94; TLI=0.92; RMR=0.05; RSMEA= 0.08; GFI= 0.82 Confiabilidad: α=0.86, por lo que se considera un instrumento válido para su aplicación en universitarios colombianos. Se identificó además que un 31.3%, mostró niveles moderados y un 38% niveles altos de procrastinación, por otra parte, se observa que las actividades relacionadas con el uso de aparatos electrónicos y de servicios de internet, así como también las de ocio y descanso se asocian con la presencia de procrastinación, por último, se describen los baremos para los puntajes obtenidos.
Redes del conocimiento basadas en tecnologías de información y comunicación en los procesos de vinculación universitaria
Authors: Jiménez Francis Edgardo , Medina Reyes Adalid
Published: March 2024

El objetivo de la investigación es determinar la relación entre las redes del conocimiento basadas en tecnologías de información y comunicación en los procesos de vinculación universitaria buscando plantear la relación humana organizacional en el logro de objetivos comunes mediatizados por el intercambio de información en los procesos de conocimientos entre expertos, investigadores y empresas para una comunicación fluida y heterogénea que propicien la cooperación, potenciación y generación de conocimientos basados en la experiencia. Con un enfoque cuantitativo, y un nivel de investigación descriptivo correlacional; asimismo se estructuró un cuestionario en escala de Likert, con una confiabilidad de 0.916 de 21 elementos. Los participantes integran la comunidad universitaria como motor de progreso para enfrentar los cambios conectados de evolución en las generaciones del conocimiento. La creación de Redes del Conocimiento tiene como base la utilización de herramientas tecnológicas, estas permiten el acercamiento de personas para el intercambio y actualización de información inmediata, para procesarla y convertirla en nuevos conocimientos; también los procesos de vinculación institucional brindan como resultado la creación de más redes que facilitan la generación de conocimientos.
Features of using innovative technologies in teaching English language in higher education institutions
Authors: Kharkevych Halyna , Kruhlij Olena , Pechko Nina , Sobol Nataliia , Shyba Alona
Published: March 2024

The peculiarities of using innovative technologies in teaching English in institutions of higher education have been clarified. The meaning of the concepts "innovation" and "educational innovation" is revealed. The main criteria of manufacturability, which must be met by pedagogical innovation technology, are shown. The main principles by which innovative activities are carried out in institutions of higher education are highlighted. Approaches containing innovative technologies in teaching English are disclosed. The most effective innovative technologies are grouped and effective technologies for teaching English are considered. that deserve attention in teaching English in institutions of higher education (interactive learning technology, distance learning, multimedia technologies, virtual environment technology). Taking into account the peculiarities of the use of innovative technologies in teaching English in higher education institutions, microlearning (bite-sized learning) technology attracts attention, the content and advantages of which are shown in the article. The advantages of using innovative technologies in teaching English in higher education institutions are shown. The main tasks in high-quality English language teaching are the development of the following basic skills: reading, listening, communication, and writing. The role of each individual skill is shown and the content of technologies that can be applied for improvement and development is revealed.
Application of Probabilistic Data Structures for detecting distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks
Authors: Atti Mangadevi , Yogi Manas Kumar
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the utilization of probabilistic data structures as a novel approach for enhancing the detection and mitigation of DDoS attacks. Traditional methods often struggle to keep pace with the evolving nature of DDoS attacks, leading to high false positive rates and scalability challenges. In contrast, probabilistic data structures offer efficient, scalable, and memory efficient solutions for analyzing large volumes of network traffic and identifying DDoS related patterns and anomalies. Key probabilistic data structures include Bloom filters, Count Min Sketches, and HyperLogLog, each providing unique capabilities for detecting DDoS attacks based on set membership, frequency estimation, and cardinality approximation, respectively. This paper examines the strengths, limitations, and practical considerations of leveraging probabilistic data structures for DDoS detection through a comprehensive analysis of methodology, experimental results, case studies, challenges, and future directions. By exploring the application of probabilistic data structures, this research aims to provide valuable insights and recommendations for cybersecurity practitioners, researchers, and stakeholders involved in combating DDoS attacks and safeguarding critical digital assets.
Growth and Production of Romaine Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) on Several Dosage of Rabbit Urine
Authors: Isnainy Dony Rachim , Manurung Adinda Nurul Huda , Asnur Paranita , Kanny Putri Irene
Published: March 2024

Romaine lettuce is a vegetable with high economic value. Romaine lettuce needs to be grown organically. This research aimed to study the effect of various doses of rabbit urine on romaine lettuce. This research was conducted from June to August 2022 at the Smart and Urban Farming Laboratory Greenhouse, Campus F7, Gunadarma University, East Jakarta, Indonesia. The study used a randomized block design (RBD) with five replications, consisting of 5 treatments, namely: P0: without rabbit urine (control); P1: Concentration of rabbit urine 25%; P2: Concentration of rabbit urine 50%; P3: Concentration of rabbit urine 75%; P4: Concentration of rabbit urine 100%. The results showed that the administration of rabbit urine had no significant effect on the growth and yield of romaine lettuce plants, and the best concentration of rabbit urine for romaine lettuce plants in this study was 80 ml (P2).