bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Certain Investigations on Energy Efficient Techniques on Wireless Sensor Networks over Smart Grid
Authors: P Balamurugan , K Selvakumar
Published: January 2023

Energy efficiency plays biggest role in the wireless sensor network as the sensors are smaller and restricted in
their resource capacity. Due to their nature of restricted resource capacity, data transmission would become more complex.
So, it is required to concentrate more on data transmission strategies, to ensure the interruption avoided data transmission.
There are different examination strategies has been presented before for performing data transmission. Among them most of
research methodologies focused on attaining energy consumption reduced optimal data transmission. The working principlee
and processing flow of previous research methodologies has been discussed here in details. This survey article is to discuss
the research techniques which attempts to perform energy consumption reduced data handling, so that network lifetime of
various sensor nodes can be utilized effectively along with increased data transmission rate. And this research work discussed
the merits and demerits analysed over each research techniques discussed here. Finally, this research work is concluded with
the performance analysis over varying number of nodes. The examination of the analysis work is done in the matlab. The
mathematical qualities have been examined to predict the exhibition level of various examination procedures as far as their
packet transmission rate, delay and energy utilization.
Pédagogie immersive expérientielle : aborder les loisirs inclusifs et thérapeutiques en interagissant avec des personnes résidant dans un foyer de soins
Authors: Zaiane-Ghalia Selma , Benimmas Aïcha
Published: January 2023

Afin de conscientiser les étudiants à la réalité des personnes à besoins spéciaux lors d’activités de loisir inclusif, la présente étude expérimente la pédagogie immersive expérientielle permettant d’éveiller la curiosité et l’intérêt des futurs récréologues inscrits au cours « loisir inclusif ». Les apprenant[e]s ont vécu l’immersion dans la réalité de résident[e]s d’un foyer de soins. Ce contact a pu s’articuler autour d’une activité de loisir axée sur la peinture, l’expression de soi et l’échange en groupe avec le soutien d’un artiste peintre. Vingt-sept étudiant[e]s ont expérimenté un apprentissage expérientiel immersif dans une ambiance de respect et d’empathie. L’analyse qualitative de récits d’expérience, de questionnaires d’appréciation et de notes d’observation directe démontre l’impact formateur de l’approche pédagogique immersive expérientielle. En effet, les résultats révèlent les appréhensions initiales rattachées aux stéréotypes véhiculés concernant la santé mentale, et que l’effet des rencontres et des interactions humaines a aidé à remettre en question.
Impact of Ponpes Izzur Risalah in Increasing the Moral Values of the Sipapaga Village Community, Panyabungan Mandailing Natal District
Authors: Nasution Khofifah Indah Al-Husna , Nst Puli Taslim
Published: January 2023

The Izzur Risalah Islamic Boarding School in Sipapaga Village, Panyabungan Mandailing natal District, makes students become leaders and have religious knowledge and is able to encourage the community to improve community moral values. Izzur Risalah Islamic Boarding School, Sipapaga Village, Panyabungan District, has made various efforts to improve the moral values ​​of the people of Sipapaga Village, Panyabungan District, including conducting recitations every night. The background of the study participants varied from the level of occupational profession, age, gender and education. Besides that, the kyai also provide encouragement and provide role models to the community in their daily behavior. Not infrequently the community consults with the kyai when there are religious problems in the community. This study aims to determine the efforts of the Izzur Risalah Islamic Boarding School in increasing the moral values ​​of the people of Sipapaga Village, Panyabungan, Mandailing Natal district. And to find out the impact of the Izzur Risalah Islamic Boarding School in increasing the moral values ​​of the people of Sipapaga Village, Panyabungan, Mandailing Natal district. This research is a descriptive qualitative research. The research sample consisted of 88 households or 15% of the entire population, using a stratified random sampling technique or random samples. Researchers used a qualitative descriptive analysis technique with percentages.
Analysis of Sharia Economic Law on Vehicle Pawning in PT. Pegadaian (Persero) Cabang Bima, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
Authors: Amrin Amrin , Priyono Adi , Shofita Nailis
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to examine the concept and system of vehicle pawning with a review of Sharia economic law. The research used descriptive qualitative with the type of field research at the Pawnshop Branch Office of the City of Bima, West Nusa Tenggara Province. While the data collection techniques were interviews, observations and documentation with data analysis using data reduction, data presentation and conclusion. The results show that,  first, the practice of vehicle pawning financing products at the Bima City Pawnshop is relatively easy and practical. The view of Islamic law on vehicle pawning practices at the Bima City Pawnshop is considered to be by Sharia principles because it does not contain 3 elements that are prohibited in the practice of vehicle pawning. Such as Gharar, Maysir, and Sury. Because the suitability of the application for pawning vehicles at the Bima City Branch can be seen in three things, namely the pillars, the legal requirements for the pawn, the costs and the mechanism for the settlement of collateral goods. And the practice of pawning vehicles at the Bima City Pawnshop is governed by the Fatwa of the National Sharia Council No.26/DSN-MUI/III/2002 concerning Rahn Emas or similar items such as Vehicles.
The Influence of Price and Quality of Telkomsel Internet Package Products on Reseller Outlet Loyalty in Islamic Economic Perspective
Authors: Setyagustina Kurniasih , Wulansari Reni , Salahuddin Salahuddin , Sauri Sauri , Nurarifah Rina
Published: January 2023

This research is motivated by the case of Telkomsel internet package product competition which is still quite high, where many competitors, both retail players and big players from outside the region enter the Merangin zone area. This study uses quantitative method. Data was collected through a questionnaire which was distributed to 85 respondents at reseller outlets who shopped for Telkomsel products at Telkomsel TAP Merangin. The analysis was carried out by processing data using SPSS 26.0 for windows, then proceeded with validity, reliability, classical assumption tests, multiple linear regression analysis and hypothesis testing using t-test and f-test. The results of the study obtained that the price and quality of Telkomsel internet package products had an effect on resellers’ outlet loyalty, in which there was a simultaneous influence between price and product quality on customers’ loyalty. In the perspective of Islamic economy, price and product quality will have a significant effect on customers’ loyalty, with ethical pricing based on good product quality so that it shows honesty that can increase customers’ trust and they will not be deceived so that their confidence becomes more stable because their rights are protected.
The study of consequences of Mongolians' invasion and establishment of the Ilkhanate dynasty on Iranian culture, art, and architecture
Authors: TABE AFSHAR Solmaz
Published: January 2023

The invasion of Mongolians was one of Iran's most important events in the history of Iran that was accompanied by full-scale consequences, especially political, social, and artistic aspects that have never left Iranian societies and are still current and ongoing. During these destructive wars that eventually led to the establishment of the Ilkhanate dynasty, countless cultural and artistic changes happened both among the Mongolians and also in Iranian society. With help of researches and library studies, and by taking an analytical look into art and architecture of this era, this study aimed to analyze the important political, religious, cultural, and social elements that affected the shaping of new concepts in architecture and art of the Ilkhanate period. Through these investigations, it was concluded that although various artistic and architectural elements were witnessed in the Ilkhanate period, following the presence of the Mongolians in this period, new artistic genres and schools were shaped alongside a spiritual and different atmosphere that was ruling art and architecture which was different from previous periods in Iran.
A comparative study of painting and architecture stylistics of contemporary Iranian and western arts
Authors: Sattari Sarbanqoli Sina , Jamali Sirus
Published: January 2023

Iranian art reflects the spirit and inclinations of Iranians, regardless of place and time of origin. Another point is the diversity of works of art which shows that the ancient Iranians had high skills in different regions. Iranian architecture and painting have always been present side by side and influentially throughout history, and this connection persists until today in contemporary Iranian art. The present article is a research on the features and concepts of architectural and painting styles in contemporary Iranian art and a comparative comparison of these two arts which is centered on the concept of architecture and painting. The contemporary architectural styles and tendencies in question date back to the first and subsequent Pahlavi rule. The general objectives of the research are to apply the styles of painting and architecture in Iranian art to achieve the same conceptualism of these two arts. For this purpose, three main categories have been studied: the first part is contemporary Iranian architecture, the second part is contemporary Iranian painting and the third part is a comparative comparison of contemporary Iranian architectural and painting styles. The present research is an analytical and comparative research and the research method is based on the application of styles and logical reasoning. Documentary and library studies and theories of experts are also the basis of this article.
Analysis of the Components Affecting the Interior Styling of Franchising Cafes
Authors: Müezzinoğlu Menşure Kübra
Published: January 2023

Changes in the supply-demand relationship depending on eating and drinking, one of the basic needs of human beings, have also induced some transformations in the spatial formation of cafes operating in the food sector. Therefore, it is critical to ensure spatial quality by considering the functional, aesthetic and psychological conditions in the formation of cafe interiors. In this study, which was discussed to contribute to the design approach by supporting the theoretical and practical unity in the discipline of interior architecture, the changes and innovations that the franchising system contributed to the interior design understanding of cafes were analysed. Besides the determination of the components in the interior design for cafes, the study also aims to question the relationship between theoretical knowledge and practice. While the study includes literature analysis and evaluation as a method, it also reveals the analysis of the components that affect the interior shaping for each cafe space. The interior design application projects used to support the theoretical dimension in the research are the cafes of the David People brand that serve with the franchise system in the provinces of Isparta, Konya, Mardin and Eskişehir. The spatial components determined through these cafe interiors, which have similar and different dynamics, were analysed and the findings were discussed. As a result, it is assumed that this study contributes to the designer in the design process to develop a new method and create a design proposal that includes the interior components of the cafes set as the sample area.
The iconography of Saint Denis in early French Gothic architecture
Authors: Akande Adeyemi
Published: January 2023

Of the many sculptures on the facades of cathedrals and churches all over France, the curious Head-carriers, also known as Cephalophores, are arguably some of the most thought-provoking sculptural pieces one will come across. This study is concerned mainly with the iconography of St Denis, the first Bishop of France, as articulated on the portals of the Basilica of St-Denis. The events that followed immediately after Denis’ martyrdom by decapitation is mostly regarded as mere fable. Consequently, the symbolic meaning of the unusual movement has evaded scholarship. This work will discuss the symbolism of the Head-carriers and the meaning it gives to the architectural space of the Basilica of St Denis. This study argues that the emblematic ideology behind the sublime interaction between the living and the dead in the Basilica of St Denis, epitomised by the statue of the martyr, is a visual representation of a central message in Christianity which presents death, not as the end, but as a transitory and glorious beginning of oneness with Christ. Through critical visual analysis and metaphysical discussions, the study places Gothic art and architecture in the centre of the enunciation of 16th century Christian doctrine.
Pendekatan STEM dalam Pembelajaran Matematika: Study Literature Review
Authors: Rahmadhani Calista , Pujiastuti Heni , Fathurrohman Maman
Published: January 2023

STEM merupakan salah satu faktor yang mendukung peserta didik terhadap prestasi, sikap, minat, dan motivasi dalam pembelajaran matematika sehingga dapat menyesuaikan teknologi yang semakin pesat. Penelitian ini ditujukan untuk menganalisis studi dalam pembelajaran matematika berbasis STEM. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah Systematic Literature Review (SLR) dengan kriteria inklusi artikel yang terbit pada tahun 2017 sampai 2022, artikel dengan akreditasi minimal Sinta 3 atau jurnal internasional. Terpilih 13 artikel jurnal dari 22 artikel yang ditelusuri dari Google Schoolar untuk dianalisis lebih lanjut. Hasil studi menunjukkan bahwa penerapan STEM dalam pembelajaran matematika membantu mengembangkan pembelajaran matematika melalui implementasi pengembangan dari suatu media, efektif, memberikan pengaruh, serta meningkatkan kemandirian, motivasi dan hasil belajar siswa pada suatu model pembelajaran ataupun kemampuan masalah matematis. Hasil pengembangan media didapatkan 2 artikel E-Modul, 2 artikel E-LKPD, dan 1 artikel aplikasi perangkat lunak. Kemampuan matematis dalam artikel terseleksi diantaranya kemampuan berpikir kreatif, kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematis, kemampuan berpikir kritis, kemampuan penalaran matematis.
Implementation of Teacher and Student Independent Curriculum in Mathematics Learning: Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Bawadi Sanggiti , Novaliyosi Novaliyosi , Pujiastuti Heni , Yuhana Yuyu , Hendrayana Aan
Published: January 2023

Merdeka Belajar kebijakan Pemerintah Indonesia dalam kesiapan guru dan siswa pada implementasi kurikulum baru. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melakukan kajian literatur terkait implementasi kurikulum merdeka guru dan siswa dalam pembelajaran matematika. Metode penelitian yang dipilih dalam penelitian ini adalah metode Systematic Literature Review (SLR). Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan mendokumentasikan dan mereview seluruh artikel terkait pendidikan matematika yang diterbitkan antara tahun 2020 sampai dengan tahun 2022. Artikel yang digunakan dalam penelitian ditemukan sebanyak 156 artikel dan setelah diseleksi terdapat 11 artikel yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi untuk dianalisis terakreditasi nasional. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian ini ditemukan bahwa kesiapan guru dan siswa serta implementasi kurikulum merdeka pada pembelajaran matematika di antaranya (1) guru dan siswa pada Merdeka Belajar siap mengikuti dan mempraktikkan pelaksanaannya; (2) implementasi Merdeka Belajar meningkatkan mutu pembelajaran; (3) pelaksanaan Merdeka Belajar mengikuti indikator, pedoman, regulasi ditetapkan Kemendikbud; (4) saran model pembelajaran digunakan Blended Learning, Discovery, Inquiry Learning, Problem Based Learning dan Project Based Learning; (5) strategi literasi dan numerasi Merdeka Belajar peningkatan hasil program berkualitas; (6) Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar masih dilakukan pengembangan dan pendampingan secara langsung melalui musyawarah satuan pendidikan tingkat Sekolah Dasar, Sekolah Menengah Pertama, Sekolah Menengah Atas serta Perguruan Tinggi.
Pengaruh Gaya Kepemimpinan Transformasional Kepala Madrasah, Motivasi Kerja dan Disiplin Kerja terhadap Kinerja Guru Madrasah Aliyah
Authors: Kurniawati Nur Rohma
Published: January 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan menganalisis pengaruh gaya kepemimpinan transformasional kepala madrasah, motivasi kerja dan disiplin kerja terhadap kinerja guru. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian survei.  Sampel penelitian ini adalah guru Madrasah Aliyah se kabupaten Pemalang sebanyak 100 guru, yang diambil dengan teknik puposive random sampling. Hasil pengumpulan data yang dilakukan melalui kuesioner dan dianalisis dengan regresi linier berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan ada pengaruh yang positif dan signifikan gaya kepemimpinan transformasional terhadap kinerja guru sebesar 45,8%; motivasi kerja terhadap kinerja guru sebesar 50,5%; disiplin kerja terhadap kinerja guru sebesar 53,9%; gaya kepemimpinan transformasional, motivasi kerja dan disiplin kerja terhadap kinerja guru sebesar 64%.
USING THE MODIFIED CLAVIEN GARDING SYSTEM TO CLASSIFY COMPLICATIONS OF BIPOLAR TURP
Authors: Dubey Anurag , tiwari shivendra , patel prashant , thakur avinash
Published: January 2023

introduction: TURP is considered gold standard treatment for BPH. TURP was first introduced in 1929 by Maximilian Stern. Complications in TURP are less but not absolute. Modified Clavien Dindo Grading System is well-established classification for post-operative complications. Objective of this study is to assess complications of BIPOLAR TURP by using the modified Clavien grading system.

Objective: To assess the evaluation of complications after bipolar transurethral resection of prostate using the Modified Clavien grading system.
Materials And Methods: 110 BIPOLAR TURP performed between April 2019 and March 2021 at Meenakshi mission hospital Madurai Tamilnadu India were reviewed retrospectively. All patients with various complications were graded using Modified Clavien grading system in 5 grades.

Results: 110 cases were enrolled in our study out of them 21 (19.9%) patients developed complications there was no mortality. Out of 21; 11 (52.4%) grade I, 5 (23.8%) grade II, 2 (9.5%) grade IIIa, 1 ( 4.8%) grade IIIb, 1 (4.8%) in each grade IVa and IVb.

Conclusion: Modified Clavien Grading System is an easy and feasible classification system for postoperative complications. In spite of various shortcomings, it is very useful to grade end-urological procedure BIPOLAR TURP short-term complications.
A STUDY ON CHANGING TRENDS IN ISOLATION RATE AND ANTIMICROBIAL SUSCEPTIBILITY PATTERN OF KLEBSIELLA PNEUMONIAE ISOLATES IN PEDIATRIC AND ADULT BLOOD STREAM INFECTIONS.
Authors: B udayasri , k madhurima , bhogadi sujatha , G jyothi
Published: January 2023

Back ground:
Blood stream infection is defined as positive blood cultures in a patient with systemic signs of infection.
Aim and objective:
To identify the changing trends in isolation rate and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates from blood stream infection both in adult and paediatric patients.
Materials and Methods:
The study was conducted at Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad. A review analysis of 11,805 cases of clinically suspected blood stream infection was done over a period of 3 years from 2019 to 2022. The study included blood culture data from Niloufer hospital for women and children and Osmania general hospital, Hyderabad.
Results:
Out of 6752 paediatric blood samples 678 were culture positive contributing for 10.5% of positivity rate. Among 5053 adult blood samples 559 were culture positive contributing for 11% positivity rate. Among the blood culture isolates Klebsiella pneumoniae isolation rate was 29.79% in paediatric samples and 16.81% in adult samples. Resistance to amoxiclav is increased in Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates among paediatric age group in last three years (21%(2019), 77%(2020), 83% (2021). Significant reduction in susceptibility towards cefaperazone in Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates in adult samples which shows 100% in 2019, 47% in 2020 and 32% in 2021. Susceptibility of piperacillin/tazobactum was increased in Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates among both adult and paediatric isolates. Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates among paediatric samples sensitivity towards ciprofloxacin and gentamicin is increased, this can be explained by reduced usage of these antibiotics in paediatric population.
Conclusion:
Judiciary use of antimicrobial agent in clinical setting is important to reduce the emergence of drug resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae.
Perceptive social support among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Curval Ana , Igreja Ana , Viana Victor , Guardiano Micaela
Published: January 2023

Introduction
Social support, especially as provided by close family and friends, has been consistently identified as one of the most powerful predictors of psychological adjustment among parents raising children with ASD.
Material and methods
A cross-sectional study including 51 parents of children with ASD was carried out in our pediatric development department. The objective of the study was to verify the degree of satisfaction of the participants regarding their family, friends, intimacy, and social activities.
Results
There was a negative correlation between the children’s age and the degree of parental satisfaction. There was a statistically significant association between the parents' educational level and the degree of satisfaction reported by them in all domains, except for the family domain.
Conclusion
Based on study findings regarding the importance of help from parents’ informal social network, special attention in this regard should be focused on developing services that assist parents in making more effective use of existing sources of support from family members, friends, and other parents of children with ASD.
Hyperprolactinemia among the patients of menstrual disorders in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Mandal Ratan , Hait Narendra , Das Debopriya , Das Brahmarshi
Published: January 2023

Background: Menstrual disorders are a common clinical problem due to multiple causes. Hyperprolactinemia, is disorders of hypothalamic-pituitary axis in young women, is usually associated with amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, anovulation, and ovulatory cycles with short or inadequate luteal phase, and galactorrhoea. Menstrual disorder affects physical and mental health of every woman.

Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to know hyperprolactinemia among the patients of menstrual disorders in a tertiary care hospital.

Materials and Methods: Women with menstrual irregularities attending Gynae outpatient department and admitted initially checked clinically and their serum prolactin level were measured. Women in reproductive age group (15–45 years) with complain of abnormal uterine bleeding were included in the study. Menopausal women, women with organic diseases in uterus and cervix, and pregnant women were excluded from the study.

Results: Prolactin level is statistically significant with age (P = 0.011). The patients from age group of 20 to 35 years had high proportion (14.4%) of hyperprolactinemia followed by age group <20 years. (12.9%) and >35 years (12.9%). The women presenting with menstrual disorders enlisted in the study were evaluated on the basis of their sociodemographic parameters. About (15.5%) were below 20 years. About (27%) were above 35 years and majority of the women (57.5%) enrolled in the study were from age group of 2035 years of age. Serum prolactin level was observed in 15.4% in patients with frequent menses, 9.1% in patients with metrorrhagia and 7.7% in patients with heavy menstrual bleeding. That result was statistically significant with P = 0.039.

Conclusion: Serum prolactin level should be evaluated in every patient of menstrual disorders.
A cross-sectional study to know the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Anand Rakesh , Mandal Partha , Hait Narendra , Das Brahmarshi
Published: January 2023

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a persistent autoimmune disease, the pathogenesis of which remains elusive. Autoimmune factors may be a cause of SLE and thyroid dysfunction. Many studies have revealed that the prevalence of thyroid disorder is higher in SLE patients than in the general population. SLE is a multisystem and hypothyroidism is an organ specific autoimmune disorder and can occur successively or simultaneously.

Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to study the prevalence of thyroid disorder in patients with SLE.

Materials and Methods: Patients admitted with definite clinical features of SLE and Antinuclear Antibodies positive, in medicine ward and healthy blood donors are taken as control. Sample was tested by fully automated analyzer.

Results: Subclinical hypothyroidism was found in 24% of study group and 8% of control group which is statistically significant. Central and secondary hyperthyroidism was found in 10% of study group and 12% of control group but it was statistically insignificant. Several studies have documented an association between SLE and other autoimmune diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and antiphospholipid syndrome. Subclinical hypothyroidism was higher than another thyroid dysfunction such as primary, central, and subclinical hypothyroidism was found to be higher in frequency, probably depicting the slow destructive process which is pathognomic of autoimmune thyroiditis.

Conclusion: Subclinical hypothyroidism was more prevalent in SLE than that of overt hypothyroidism as compared with general population.
Comparative study between modes of teaching techniques in pharmacology among 2nd-year medical students
Authors: Sharp Kumar , Kale Anjali , Teli Shaikh , Ramanand Jaiprakash
Published: January 2023

Background: Every teaching technique has its limitations and the need to evolve with changing times is required. A combination of these techniques may be useful to solve the problems that these methods have individually. However, there are no studies which provide a comparison between the three modes of teaching, that is, blackboard and Power Point presentation (PPT) combined, blackboard only and PPT only.

Aim and Objectives: In this study, we aim to find out the difference between the three modes of teaching, that is, blackboard and presentation combined, blackboard only and presentation only in terms of academic performances of the students in the subject of pharmacology and the feedback received from them.

Materials and Methods: The total batch of 150 students was divided into three groups of 50 students each. Each group was taught one topic through only one mode of teaching such that alternatively every group is exposed at least once to every mode of teaching. Pre-test was taken from all students before the start of the topic and post-test was taken after the end of the topic. Every group also filled a pre-validated feedback form with answers in either yes or no, at the end of the topic. The data were analyzed between the three groups in the form of percentages. One-way ANOVA test was used to find the comparison between mean values of marks scored in the tests and feedback between the three groups.

Results: Blackboard and PPT combined (96.05%) received the highest positive feedback response followed by blackboard only (90.48%) and PPT only (87.42%) modes. The average scores in all the post-tests in all groups were higher than the pre-tests score;, however, the difference between them was not significant.

Conclusion: In this study, we conclude that the combination of blackboard and presentation technique is the best mode of teaching to the students in the subject of pharmacology because it provides the interaction of classroom as well as the visual aid of important topics and images.
Developmental timing and cell fate maintenance in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors:   , Traets Joleen Johanna Helena
Published: January 2023

The development of a multi-cellular organism begins with a single fertilized egg cell, and ends with a fully-grown adult with all kinds of specialized cell types. During this complex developmental process, cells undergo several important developmental events, such as cell fate differentiation, movement and growth. The correct timing of the occurrence and duration of those developmental events is one of the key challenges during development, in order to prevent malformation of tissues. After cells have reached their terminal cell fate, a new important challenge appears, that is the maintenance of their obtained terminally differentiated state, to prevent loss of their specialized functions. Robust maintenance of terminal cell fate is particularly important in cell types that are hardly renewed during the lifetime of an animal, such as neuronal cells. In this thesis, we focused on these two complementary key challenges, of correct developmental timing and long-term cell fate maintenance, that cells face during their lifetime. With the help of the model system Caenorhabditis elegans, we studied how cell growth is timed by gene expression oscillators during development, and what mechanism lies behind the long-term maintenance of terminal cell fate that is controlled by terminal selector genes.
A Glimpse to Botanical Garden: Case Study in the Environment and Ecological Niche of Molave Tree
Authors:   Lecturer VI – Far Eastern University, Institute of Education, Manila, Philippines, Caraig Renelle V
Published: January 2023

A wood species called molave (Vitex parviflora Juss.) naturally grows in tropical nations like the Philippines. In the marginal uplands, molave is also a plant that is advised for afforestation. The ecological niche of the molave tree is significant to the balance of the terrestrial ecosystems. The trees serve as producers of the biotic organism and provide shelter, oxygen and sequester carbon dioxide. The trees also provide support that upholds the land from erosion and landslides. According to FAO (2004), people in the county continue to unlawfully cut these trees despite the Philippines’ restriction on doing so, which results in an annual deforestation rate of roughly 2.48%, compared to 1.4% in the 1990s. Some of the conservation plans of the government include in situ conservation, integrated protected area systems, geographic mapping of species distribution, and education and training activities for conservation planning. Therefore, the molave tree in the Botanical Garden of University of the Philippines Los Banos has a vital role in controlling the balance of the ecosystems together with the living organisms in the area and must be sustained and protected.
Ukrainian crisis in Japan’s domestic political discourse
Authors: Nelidov V. V.
Published: January 2023

The Ukrainian crisis, which came into its active phase in February 2022, led to the collapse of Russia’s relations with many countries, and Japan was no exception. The Japanese government expressed strong criticism of Russia’s actions and joined the anti-Russian sanctions with, probably, most vigor, compared to any other Asian nation. This makes the question about the reasons for such course pursued by Tokyo vis-à-vis Russia a particularly timely one. In Russia, there is a widespread opinion that such position held by Tokyo is caused mostly by pressure from the United States. Yet such view seems to be a gross simplification. This article attempts to analyze the positions of various participants of the Japanese foreign policy making process about the events unfolding in Ukraine. It shows that, even though all key parties, irrespective of their political orientation, take a critical stance towards the actions of the Russian Federation, their statements show some nuances reflecting their ideological priorities. For example, the ruling LDP emphasizes solidarity with the US; its junior coalition partner, Komeito, stresses humanitarian aspects and the role of the UN; the Japan Innovation Party criticizes the government for indecisiveness and calls for more active military policy, while the left-wing populist Reiwa Shinsengumi even refused to support the relevant Diet resolution to demonstrate its principled stance to the voters. There are indeed opinions which can arguably be called apologetic towards Russia. However, those holding such opinions are but a minority and are hardly able to alter the position of the government or the Japanese public as a whole. There is a virtual consensus about the issue, and nuances in the positions of major political forces are inconsequential. One would be justified to assume that, under any probable domestic political situation, Tokyo will not change its policy about the matter.
The Sinitic poetry of Fujiwara Seika and his place in the history of early modern kanbun literature
Authors: Skovoronskikh M. V.
Published: January 2023

Fujiwara Seika (藤原惺窩, 1561–1619) has often attracted scholarly attention as one of the founders of Neo-Confucianism in Japan. Yet his substantial literary oeuvre, which includes works in both literary Sinitic (Jp. kanbun 漢文) and Japanese, remains largely unexplored. Just like most of his educated contemporaries, Seika was well-versed in kanbun composition and left us with a considerable number of Sinitic poems (Jp. 漢詩 kanshi), but the few modern scholars who have commented on his verse have been quite critical in their evaluation of his poetic prowess. According to such scholars, Seika’s kanshi suffer from several serious defects, including a derivative and uninventive diction, a lack of individuality, and an inability to fruitfully engage with indigenous poetic material.

This study turns to a selection of Fujiwara Seika’s Sinitic poems to cast doubt on such claims. It begins by surveying scholarly opinion on Seika’s verse, proceeds to analyze his kanshi poetics by focusing on diction, tone, and the use of Japanese poetic material, and concludes with a brief discussion of Seika’s ideal of “living verse” (Jp. 活句 kakku). The study argues that, far from being a “bad” poet, Seika was capable of producing innovative, personal, and eclectic verse at a stage in the development of kanbun literature often described as one of blandness, literary mimicry, and slavish imitation of Chinese precedent. In so doing, this study challenges conventional scholarly narratives of Fujiwara Seika’s—and, by extension, other early Tokugawa poets’—place in the history of Japanese belles-lettres and points to the importance of treating the kanbun corpus as an academic subject no less serious than the vernacular tradition.
Russian settlement on the island of Urup (1795–1805) and its influence on Japan’s policy towards Ainu from southern Kurils
Authors: Shchepkin V. V.
Published: January 2023

Based on comparative study of published Russian and Japanese sources, the article describes the history of the Russian settlement on the island of Urup in 1795–1805. First, it clarifies the goals of the foundation of the settlement and the reasons for its liquidation. Founded at the initiative of the Siberian merchant Grigorii Shelekhov, the Russian settlement played an important role both in Russo-Japanese relations and in the policy of the Japanese government towards the Ainu and their lands, especially in the southern Kuril Islands, at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. Russians founded the settlement in the view of future trade opportunities with Japan, since, a few years earlier, the Russian envoy Adam Laxman had received a permission to enter the port of Nagasaki to continue negotiations. In the beginning, Russians managed to start exchange of Japanese goods and supplies with the Ainu. After Japanese governmental expedition reached Iturup in 1798, however, information about relations between the Russians and the Ainu led to the transfer of the northeast Hokkaido, Kunashir, and Iturup under the direct control of the bakufu, as well as influenced the nature of Japanese policy towards the local population, the Ainu. The desire to expel the Russians from Urup and thereby stop their relations with the Ainu of the southern Kuril Islands led to the decision of the Japanese government to turn Iturup into a natural fortress and forbid the locals to leave the island, and the Russians and Ainu of the northern and middle Kuril Islands to come there. At the same time, the long stay of Russian settlers on Urup prevented the spread of Japanese influence north of Iturup.
Japan-Iran relations in the post-war era: The Middle Eastern dilemma for Japan
Authors: Bushueva A. S.
Published: January 2023

After the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran did not change its policy towards Japan, which was not only perceived separately from the West, but was also a major customer of its raw resources and a potential economic donor. In turn, Japan had to pursue the policy of unstable balancing towards Iran, by coordinating its Middle Eastern policy with its strategic ally, the United States, and simultaneously trying to preserve close ties with Iran, which were important from the point of view of maintaining energy security. The article shows how Japan tried to maneuver between these two countries: it took steps to realize large-scale economic projects in Iran’s energy sector, to limit sanctions, which were minimal on its side, etc., and simultaneously participated in the anti-Iran campaign pursued by Western countries under the pressure of the US, or under the influence of major crises in the region (for example, the Iran-Iraq War). Japan continues to face this “Middle Eastern dilemma” in present times as well. It could partly have been solved by the signing of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on the Iranian nuclear program in 2015, were it not for the fact that, two years later, under the US administration of Donald Trump, the US-Iran relations worsened significantly. Nevertheless, in this period, Japan successfully tried its mediatory potential, making use of its good relations with both parties of the conflict: on the one hand, it refused to participate in the US operation in the Strait of Hormuz, on the other, it halted the unfreezing of Iran’s funds in its banks, which had been blocked after the introduction of sanctions by the US administration of Donald Trump. Recently, the activization of China in the region has become a factor of risk for Japan’s Middle Eastern policy, as China tries to use the weaking positions of the US and to occupy the vacuum that was left in its wake, which is illustrated by the signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement between Beijing and Tehran in March 2021. This forces Japan to deliberately strengthen its positions and expand its presence in Iran. It appears that Japan’s approaches to solving the “Middle Eastern dilemma” deserve special attention in the future as well.
Evaluation of diagnostic performance of a rapid antigen test in diagnosing COVID-19
Authors:   Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Assuit University, Egypt., Badawy, Eman , Ezz El-Din Azza , El Zohne Randa
Published: January 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is our time's major global health crisis and the greatest health challenge. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is the gold standard technique for diagnosis of symptomatic cases and asymptomatic carriers. By 2020, antigen rapid tests have been approved for use in Covid-19 testing by regulatory bodies all over the world owing to their benefits as they are rapid and cost effective. This work aimed to determine the diagnostic sensitivity and accuracy of the SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen test in the detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection compared to RT-PCR data. The study included 111 symptomatic COVID-19 patients and 20 control subjects. Of the 111 study patients, 91 patients (81.98%) were positive by RT-PCR and 20 patients negative. The BIOZEK antigen COVID-19 Ag rapid test device was evaluated using sera from the 111 symptomatic COVID-19 patients. Of the 91 RT-PCR positive patients, 81 (90.1%) were positive by the antigen rapid diagnostic test (Ag-RDT). The control subjects were negative by both tests. The overall sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy of the Ag-RDT were 91.11%, 100%, 100%, 68.9%, and 91.8%, respectively and these increased as the level of viremia increased. In conclusion, the used Ag-RDT showed high sensitivity and accuracy for detecting of a SARS-CoV-2 infection, especially when the viral load was high. However, the test lacks sensitivity particularly in those with low viral load.
Estimation of immune response (IgG) to SARS-COV2 (COVID-19) after the third COVID-19 wave in Egypt, A cross-sectional Study
Authors:   Department of Tropical Medicine & Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt., Abdelrahman Mona , Hemdan Shimaa , Farag Radwa , Nour Eldin Ahmed , Khalaf Asmaa , Bakheet Tasneem , Shafik Noha
Published: January 2023

Since the start of the pandemic, the number of cases has been increased rapidly. Due to asymptomatic and mild cases and restricted testing in many geographic locations, the overall number of actual COVID-19 cases is likely significantly higher than the number of verified cases. Several COVID-19-related comorbid diseases impair immune system function, which has an impact on COVID-19 responsiveness. So, we evaluated the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 after the third wave of COVID-19 and assessed the effect of comorbid diseases on this immune response. The current cross-sectional study was conducted in August 2021 after the third wave of COVID-19. The study included 287 participants. All participants were asked about their epidemiological data, comorbid diseases, data suggesting COVID-19 infection, and precautions measures to minimize the exposure to the disease. Of the 278 participants, 50% had a positive IgG response to COVID-19. Regarding comorbid diseases, the IgG antibody titer was significantly lower in patients with chronic kidney diseases (CKD) on dialysis, ischemic heart disease, and chronic obstructive lung diseases than other participants (p= 0.01, p= 0.02, p= 0.005, respectively). Neither precaution measures nor comorbid diseases had a role in risk factors of COVID-19 infections in our participants. In conclusion, high seroprevalence (50%) of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody after the third wave of COVID-19 was observed in the current study. Comorbid conditions as hypertension, chronic cardiac diseases, chronic chest problems, and CKD on dialysis could decrease the immune response against COVID-19 infection.
Immunoglobulin G antibody immune response profile following infection with SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19 Egyptian patients
Authors:   Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt., Goda Asmaa , Hefny Hesham , Esmaeel Hend , Fattouh Mona , Abu Al Fadl Esam , Khalifa Amal , Meghezel El-Zahraa , Mohammed Nesreen , Ali Amal
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to report the dynamic profile of IgG-specific antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 infection for 6 months after infection. We conducted a prospective study, recruited 33 recently confirmed covid -19 patients and collected 6 samples from each patient. The first samples were collected one month from the start of symptoms and subsequent samples collected at 30 days interval. We measured the IgG by chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA). According to the disease severity, patients were categorized as asymptomatic 4 (12.1%), mild 14 (42,4%), moderate 9 (27.3%), and severe 6 (18.2%). Patients were 12 (35.3%) females and 21 (64.7%) males. The mean IgG levels maintained a high level till the second month (92.81 ± 110.15 AU/ml) from the onset of symptoms followed by a gradual decrease till the sixth month after infection (17.42 ± 22.61 AU/ml). The patients with severe symptoms significantly exhibited the highest IgG levels, reached the highest level (mean=237.44 ± 164.13 AU/ml) at the second month. While the lowest levels were detected among the asymptomatic patients (mean= 3.04 ± 2.94 AU/ml) at the second month. Older age correlated with higher IgG antibody level (r= 0.350 p=0.046); however, sex was not related to IgG level. In conclusion, Symptomatic COVID-19 disease is followed by protective immunity for more than 6 months. Immunity in asymptomatic patients is low and fades rapidly than symptomatic cases. Patients with severe disease had significantly higher IgG levels compared to mild, moderate, or asymptomatic patients.
Bioactivity of Trigonella foenum (Fenugreek) oil on immunological and biochemical response of Schistosoma mansoni infected miceBioactivity of Trigonella foenum (Fenugreek) oil on immunological and biochemical response of Schistosoma mansoni infected mice
Authors:   Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt., Hassan Elham , Osman Gamalat , Mohamed Azza , Salem Tarek
Published: January 2023

The effect of fenugreek oil (FO) on some parasitological, immunological, and biochemical parameters in mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni were investigated. Chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis of FO revealed that linoleic acid, (E,E)-4­decadienal, and isopropyl myristate are the major constituents of FO. The results showed that treatment of S. mansoni-infected mice with 0.15 ml of FO daily for 10 successive days exhibited a significant reduction in the number of S. mansoni male worms, and coupled worms as compared to an infected control group (p<0.05). Regarding total egg counts and oogram patterns, FO effectively reduced the percentage of hepatic and intestinal egg counts, and elevated immature and dead eggs in ratios closely to praziquantel (PZQ) treated mice. Meanwhile, FO significantly elevated the levels of glutathione and co-enzyme Q-10 (COQ-10) up to 0.33±0.02 ng/ml and 0.28±0.02 ng/ml, respectively. However, when accompanied with PZQ, COQ-10 level was closer to that of the normal control group (0.37 ± 0.021 ng/ml). The result also showed that FO significantly reduced levels of lipid per-oxidation (0.165±0.01 ng/ml) and vascular endothelial growth factor (0.25±0.02 pg/ml) as compared to the PZQ-treated group (0.234±0.02 ng/ml and 0.31±0.008 pg/ml, respectively). Moreover, FO recovered normal values of caspase-7, and when accompanied with PZQ, annexin-V was also significantly reduced. However, treatment of S. mansoni-infected mice with PZQ led to a significant increase in the level of annexin-V as compared to S. mansoni-infected mice group (p<0.05). It can be concluded that FO may have a potential anti-schistosomal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Also, it may have a recovering effect on apoptotic parameters toward the normal values.
Serum total IgE as immunological marker in patients with chronic hepatitis B Virus infection, and hepatitis B related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors:   Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University (Assiut branch), Assiut, Egypt., Khalil Mohammed , Sharaf Eldin Abeer , Ahmed Ahmed , Badr Bahaa , Yassin Ayman
Published: January 2023

This study evaluated the efficacy of IgE in predicting disease progression in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and HBV related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared to normal controls. The study included 60 HBV-infected patients. Of these, 30 patients with chronic hepatitis B but not related to HCC and 30 patients with related HCC. Serum level of IgE was measured by ELISA. Serum level of IgE was higher in HCC patients than non-HCC patients (p< 0.005). Significant correlations were detected between IgE, transaminases (ALT, AST), alpha-fetoprotein and severity scores in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. The level of IgE was correlated with HB viral load. Stronger correlations were evident between IgE, prothrombin time and total bilirubin. In conclusion, IgE levels may be considered as non-invasive markers for monitoring liver disease progression in CHB.