bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of pulmonary tuberculosis in the republic of Tajikistan
Authors: OI Bobokhojaev , EF Rasulov , AA Abdurakhimov
Published: August 2024

Objective: To study the dynamics and main reasons for the significant detection of pulmonary tuberculosis with a negative sputum test result in the Republic of Tajikistan over the past 5 years. Material and methods: An analysis of the estimated data of the WHO, as well as official statistics on TB incidence using the National TB Data Registry for 2019-2023, was carried out. Definitions of clinically established cases of pulmonary TB are noted. Information is presented on the introduction of the express PCR method of bacteriological verification of TB diagnosis in all regions of the country. Results: Over the past 5 years (2019-2023), WHO estimates on TB incidence in the Republic of Tajikistan have significantly decreased, indicating improved accessibility of the population to specialized anti-TB services. At the same time, during the COVID period (2019-2020), the prognosis was more unfavorable due to deteriorating accessibility to medical and social services than in the post-COVID period (2021-2023). At the same time, official statistics on the detection of new TB cases indicate the opposite dynamics: during the COVID period, the number of TB patients sharply decreased from 5976 to 4299 cases that is, by 1677 cases (more than 28%) and began to gradually increase in subsequent years, but has not yet reached the pre-COVID level. At the same time, in proportion to the indicated data, the number of clinically established cases of pulmonary TB decreased during the COVID period from 1422 to 720 cases (2019-2021), that is, almost twofold, and in the following years (2022-2023) began to gradually increase, still not reaching the pre-COVID period. Conclusion: Thus, despite the active introduction of new innovative methods for verifying the diagnosis of TB and improving the population's access to diagnostic services, including molecular genetic methods for rapid diagnostics of both sensitive and drug-resistant forms of TB, the proportion of clinically established cases of pulmonary TB remains high (34% of all pulmonary forms of TB) and tends to increase.
The effect of liquid feeding period on the growth performance of calves
Authors: Göncü Serap , Güçlü Sucak Mustafa
Published: August 2024

In this research, health records of calves born in a private dairy cattle farms with a capacity of 400 dairy cows in Ereğli between October 2020 and October 2021 were evaluated. The data determined in the 70 days from birth to weaning of the calves were recorded individually. The birth and weaning weights of the calves were measured at monthly intervals with a sensitive electronic scale up to 100 kilograms. Calves were barned in individual calf hutches and roughage and concentrate feed were offered separately and freely in front of them. Calves received colostrum from their mothers for 3 days. For 70 days, they were fed totally 6 litres of milk twice a day. Commercial calf growth feed with 18% crude protein and 2800 Kcal/kg ME energy was purchased and high quality alfalfa grass produced in the farm was used in calf feeding. Health observations of the calves were made by the technician by scoring cough, nasal discharge, condition of eyes and ears and faeces according to the results of the health observations.
Pancreatic trauma with surgical indication. Case series in three centers in Montevideo-Uruguay
Authors: Merino Gimena , Parada Ulises , Elicegui Valentina , Fernandez Lucia , Salada Rocio , Pontillo Marcelo , Guillen Alison
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Pancreatic trauma is a rare event in 0.5-8% of trauma patients, with high morbidity and mortality (8.6-15%). Diagnosis is generally difficult, so clinical suspicion must be high. Associated visceral injuries are the rule. The challenge lies, in addition to the diagnosis, in making a correct classification of these lesions, which will have therapeutic implications that directly influence the morbidity and mortality of this pathology. Objective: To report a series of cases of patients with pancreatic trauma who required surgery. Methods: A retrospective observational analysis was carried out on patients with open or closed abdominal trauma undergoing surgery who presented pancreatic injury. Results: A series of 5 clinical cases of traumatic pancreatic injuries are described, in which penetrating trauma predominates. All required surgical treatment due to the presence of hemodynamic instability and open trauma with evisceration of intra-abdominal organs. Treatment was individualized, using different surgical techniques depending on the degree of pancreatic injury and hemodynamic status. Of the complications, pancreatic fistula was the most frequent and there were no deaths in the series of cases presented.
Petroleum spills and assessment of heavy metals in water, sediment, soil from Afiesere River, Ughelli, Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Okudo Calistus Chidebelu , Nicholas Eno-obong Sunday , Abugu Hillary Onyeka
Published: August 2024

The study which was to determine the concentrations of heavy metals in water, sediment and soil of Afiesere river because of the anthropogenic activities of petroleum exploration and attendant spills in the area. Surface water, sediment, surface soil and sub-surface soil samples were collected from Afiesere River, Ughelli, Delta State. Some physiochemical parameters of water were analysed using standard methods and Hanna water quality checker. The concentrations of five heavy metals, namely; lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and nickel (Ni) were determined in water, sediment, surface soil, and sub-surface soil using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Flame-AAS). The results obtained show the mean values of pH, temperature, total dissolved solid, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, phosphate, nitrate, and sulphate as follows: 6.87 ± 0.18, 27.40 ± 0.28oC, 4.00 ± 0.00 mg/L, 8.67 ± 0.25 µs/cm, 4.23 ± 0.08 mg/L, 0.65 ± 0.17 mg/L, 0.01 ± 0.00 mg/L, 0.01 ± 0.03 mg/L, and 2.17 ± 0.18 mg/L respectively. The heavy metals; Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu and Ni mean concentrations are as follows: in water, 0.06 ± 0.02, 0.02 ± 0.01, 0.46 ± 0.01, 0.03 ± 0.01 and 3.56 ± 0.07 mg/L; in sediment, 0.52 ± 0.03, 0.02 ± 0.00, 0.21 ± 0.02, 0.07 ± 0.01 and 0.26 ± 0.01 mg/kg; in surface soil, 0.50 ± 0.03, 0.02 ± 0.00, 0.07 ± 0.01, 0.03 ± 0.00 and 2.91 ± 0.03 mg/kg; in sub-surface soil, 0.55 ± 0.02, 0.02 ± 0.01, 0.26 ± 0.02, 0.06 ± 0.01 and 0.36 ± 0.08 mg/kg respectively. The results showed a significant difference at P<0.05. The results obtained in this study were within and above the set standard for water, sediment and soil by World Health Organization (WHO). The metals are toxic, can bio-accumulate and are potential carcinogens; therefore treatment of water is very important. Periodic medical examination of the inhabitants of the area must be a top priority.
Prevelance and risk factors of female sexual dysfunction in females attending infertility clinic at Kasr Alainy hospital: a cross-sectional descriptive study
Authors: Lasheen Yossra , Elmohamady Maged , Ashour Ahmed SA , Ibrahim Oweis Islam Abdelsatar , Magdyatta Fatma Mohamed
Published: August 2024

Background: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a common health problem that is inadequately investigated in Egypt. Sexual problems are reported by approximately 40 percent of females worldwide. There is a strong relationship between FSD, quality of life and infertility. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction and also to investigate possible risk factors that may cause sexual dysfunction in the Egyptian infertile women seeking fertility Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional clinic-based survey was conducted at the infertility clinic, in Kasr Al-Ainy Hospital, Cairo, Egypt from October 2023 to February 2024. During this study, 186 women were enrolled and asked to answer the validated Arabic version of the Female Sexual Function Index and World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire- Brief that were provided by female investigators. Results: 186 females were included in our study. The prevalence of FSD was 56 females (30.1%) while 130 females (69.9%) had good sexual function with FSFI >28.1. Also, patients with sexual dysfunction had mean value of QoL that was (38.5±8.7) while females with good sexual function had mean value of QoL that (64.2±11.2) respectively. We found that the most frequent risk factors of female sexual dysfunction were advanced maternal and paternal age, no maternal occupation, duration of marriage <5 years, nulliparous women ,maternal obesity, timed intercourse and number of IVF trials. On the other hand, no relations were reported between female sexual dysfunction and family income, residence, menstrual Rhythm, associated chronic medical diseases, drug intake, contraception, vaginitis, mode of delivery, circumcision and previous episiotomy. Conclusion: FSD is a major health problem that affect 30.1% of women attending infertility outpatient clinic in Kasr Alainy Hospital and greatly affected their quality of life.
Khadimah dan Representasi Perempuan Salehah dalam Novel Bidadari Bermata Bening Karya Habiburrahman El Shirazy
Authors: Abdullah Varatisha Anjani , Ashivah Misbah Nuril
Published: August 2024

The following article deliberates the construction of virtuous woman in Bidadari Bermata Bening, a novel by Habiburrahman El-Shirazy, as an Islamic literature which carries out a religious proselytizing mission. The evolution of Islamic literature in Indonesia post-reformation had open a new space of aspiration for its Muslim community. Particularly for FLP (Forum Lingkar Pena) writers’ community, this democratic-space is utilised as an entertaining propagation of Islam (dakwah-tainment) which mixes Islamic values and melodramatic romance. Furthermore, this article looks into the moral notion applied to characterise virtuous woman. The analysis was performed using Critical Discourse Analysis method. Critical approach was necessary to deconstruct the discourse built by author as an effort to develop knowledge through linguistic medium which then serves as veracity for the readers. Assisted by Islamic gender theories from Muslim feminists, this article exposes Islamic discourse that defines virtuous women through literature. Analysis result showed that a woman’s piety is not identified by common Islamic attributes such as veil and habitual act of worships, but also by the quality of service resembling a servant (khadimah) to her master (a man). The biggest service of a khadimah is giving her purity, virginity and her loyalty in love to the Master, which reinforces patriarchy value, male superiority, and inequality between men and women.
Kognisi Sosial Dalam Narasi Terstruktur, Sistematis, dan Masif (TSM) di Persidangan Pemilu Pilpres 2019 Melalui Uji Linguistik Forensik
Authors: Romdlon Atiq Mohammad , Fidiyanti Murni , Syaikhu Ahmad , Rosyidi Zudan
Published: August 2024

This study analyzes social cognition on TSM (structured, systematic, and massive) narrative created by the lawyers of the presidential election pair (paslon) 2 during the 2019 presidential election dispute hearing at the Constitutional Court (MK). The representation of social cognition is in the form of knowledge which includes the principles of "substantive justice". The research method used refers to linguistic forensics based on Teun A. van Dijk's Critical Discourse Analysis (AWK) approach. The data were transcripts of court conversations made by the Constitutional Court (MK). This study found that the social cognition of the team of lawyers for the 2nd presidential candidate pair is a representation of the principle of substantive justice. This principle consists of four pieces of knowledge, namely the rationality of substantive courts, honesty and abuse of power by government officials, the objectivity of the constitutional court, the impartiality of the government and election organizers. This principle was used by the team of lawyers for the presidential election pair 2 to encourage MK judges not only to recount the votes but also to investigate TSM violations that were allegedly committed by the presidential election candidate pair 1.
An Assessment of the Recent Change to the Doctrine of Baptism in the Holy Spirit in the Australian Christian Churches
Authors: Grey Jacqueline N
Published: August 2024

This article explores the revisions to the doctrinal statements of the Australian Christian Churches (ACC) completed in 2021. It will first briefly explore the development of the ACC from its inception to the current context, highlighting some of the historical developments in their theology that precipitated the recent review of their doctrinal statements. Second, the process undertaken by the ACC to review its doctrine will be described. Third, the outcome of the doctrinal review will be evaluated through the lens of Simon Chan’s ‘traditioning process’, focusing on the statement regarding the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. Chan’s approach requires both retrieval (resourcement) of a community’s early ethos while updating (aggiornamento) their doctrinal statements to meet the needs of the current context. It will be observed that the changes to the ACC’s doctrine of Spirit baptism reflect a weak traditioning process.
Comparison of virtual reality perceptions of teachers working in Türkiye and South Africa
Authors: Kocasaraç Hüseyin , Mlotshwa Handson Fingi
Published: August 2024

With the study reported on here we aimed to determine and compare teacher perceptions of the concept of virtual reality between Turkish and South African teachers using metaphors. We adopted a phenomenological approach, and a questionnaire was administered to a total of 100 teachers in both countries, using random sampling. The study included 4 schools – 2 secondary schools selected from each country. The data obtained were analysed and categorised into themes using the metaphor mismatch technique. The following themes were identified and interpreted, learning, entertainment, technology, art, travel, and imagination. Teachers presented metaphors based on relevance to their area of practice and perceived potential use of virtual reality in teaching and learning. Based on the number of metaphors identified, teachers held a narrow perception in the categories, entertainment, technology, and travel, while more metaphors, with varied sample explanation responses were identified in the categories of learning, art, and imagination. The findings of this study can be used to develop a user road map for teacher professional development and to inform policy on the use of virtual reality in teaching and learning.
Prerogatywy Prezydenta Rzeczypospolitej Polskiej i zakres jego władzy samodzielnej do powoływania sędziów
Authors:   Uniwersytet Śląski w Katowicach, Chorążewska Anna , Grądzka Ilona ,   Katolicki Uniwersytet Lubelski
Published: August 2024

The thesis analyses the extent of the Polish President’s discretionary power to appoint judges. The starting point for the discussion is an examination of the origins of the term prerogative and its appearance in Polish literature, followed by an analysis of the constitutional position of the President of the Republic of Poland in the powers’ system. The paper posits two theses. The understanding of prerogatives in Polish legal science fundamentally differs from that of the British term Royal Prerogatives. The constitutional model of the President’s position in Art. 126 of the Constitution assumes an active presidency. Although the President is not entitled to conduct the affairs of the State, as the head of State, using his powers, he performs the functions of the Constitution’s guardian and the arbiter as a guarantor of the continuity of State authority.
Bundestag Election Verification Procedure – Comments Against the Background of the 2021 Bundestag Elections
Authors:   University of Bialystok, Bezubik Kamila
Published: August 2024

The analysis of the procedure for the verification of the Bundestag elections, based on the experience of the September 2021 elections, raises legitimate concerns about its efficiency and reveals at the same time the need for its thorough reform. The current two-stage process, involving first parliamentary proceedings and then judicial review, can lead to lengthy delays. As the experience of the twentieth-term Bundestag elections has shown, the election verification proceedings took twenty-seven months, i.e. more than half the term of the current Bundestag. Introducing a one-step election verification procedure, leaving it in the remit of the Federal Constitutional Court, would speed up the decision-making process, increase the independence of the adjudication and improve citizens’ confidence in democratic institutions and the regularity of elections.
Neutrophil extracellular traps as a promising marker of poor prognosis in operated patients with infective endocarditisarditis.
Authors: Kotova E. O. , Moiseeva A. Yu. , Kobalava Zh. D. , Pisyaryuk A. S. , Kassina D. V. , Gur’ev A. S. , Gusarova T. A.
Published: August 2024

Aim. To assess the prognostic value of the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in blood smears of operated patients with infective endocarditis (IE).

Material and methods. We prospectively included 46 patients with verified IE and 50 patients with valvular heart disease without IE, hospitalized in a cardiac surgery hospital in 2021-2022 (Moscow), comparable by sex and age. In all patients, NETs were determined upon admission and 7 days after surgery using the MECOS-Ts2 automated microscope (Russia). Patients included in the study were prospectively followed during the in-hospital period (ME [IQR] 30,0 [21,0-41,0] days) for the primary composite endpoint (in-hospital all-cause mortality, embolic, intracardiac, infectious complications) and its individual components.

Results. Patients with IE were predominantly male (n=37, 80,4%) with a median age of 55,5 [44,0-70,0] years. The primary combined endpoint was recorded in 76,1% (n=35) of those examined with IE. The NET level after 7 days was significantly higher in patients with IE who had primary combined endpoint events than in the group of operated patients with heart defects without IE (Me [IQR] 4,4 [0,6-26,6] vs 2,9 [1,1-4,3], respectively, p<0,05). Patients with IE who died in the hospital had a significantly higher NET level compared with surviving patients with IE and the control group as at admission (9,2 [1,8-18,9] vs 4,2 [0,3-28 ,5] and 3,4 [1,76,9], respectively, p<0,05), and in dynamics (18,2 [5,2-26,6] vs 4,0 [1, 0-26,6] and 2,9 [1,1-4,3], respectively, p<0,001). The threshold value of dynamic NET ≥11,2% predicted in-hospital death with high accuracy (sensitivity 80,0%, specificity 90,0%, positive predictive value 66,7%, negative predictive value 100,0%, area under the curve 0,915, p=0,003) and the development of postoperative sepsis (sensitivity 75,0%, specificity 88,0%, positive predictive value 60,0%, negative predictive value 100,0%, area under the curve 0,884, p=0,01). The obtained cut-off values significantly predicted the death (OR 23,9 (95% CI 1,7-344,8, p=0,02)) and sepsis (OR 22,0 (95% CI 1,9-256,8, p=0,01)) in the hospital in operated patients with IE.

Conclusion. The NET level in blood smears of operated patients with IE is a new promising marker for predicting the disease complicated course. NETs ≥11,2% in operated patients with IE increase the probability of hospital mortality by 24 times and postoperative sepsis by 22 times.
Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography and stress computed tomography myocardial perfusion: potential for early imaging of asymptomatic patients with myocardial bridges
Authors: Mirzoev N. T. , Shulenin K. S. , Kutelev G. G. , Tedeev T. G. , Cherkashin D. V. , Ivanov V. V.
Published: August 2024

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of left ventricular (LV) peak global longitudinal strain and potential of computed tomography myocardial perfusion (CT perfusion) for the early diagnosis of asymptomatic patients with myocardial bridges (MBs).

Material and methods. Forty patients were examined (20 with asymptomatic MBs in the area of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery and 20 without MBs) at the S. M. Kirov Military Medical Academy in the period from 2021 to 2023. The patients were divided into 2 equal groups consisting of 20 people (10 with MBs — the main group; 10 without MBs — the comparison group), one of which underwent speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), and the other — stress CT perfusion performed (adenosine triphosphate 160 mg/kg). The results were assessed in accordance with the 17-segment classification of LV proposed by the American Heart Association (2002).

Results. When performing STE, 5 (50%) patients with MBs showed a decrease in LV local strain in the segments, the blood supply of which comes from the LAD artery and its branches, while in the comparison group — 1 (10%) (x2=5; p=0,025). When assessing the global longitudinal peak strain (GLPS), a significant difference was revealed among the study groups, amounting to -20,9±1,5% in patients with MBs and -22,1±0,9% in those without MBs (p=0,04). Using ROC analysis, the effectiveness of GLPS in prediction of asymptomatic MBs was calculated as follows: AUC=0,93 (95% confidence interval: 0,819-1,0; p=0,001), the cut-off point — -20,55% (sensitivity 80%, specificity 100%). According to CT perfusion data, impaired myocardial blood supply in the group of asymptomatic patients with MBs was noted in 6 (60%) cases, and in the comparison group — 2 (20%) (x2=9,8; p=0,002).

Conclusion. Imaging of initial LV changes according to two-dimensional STE and detection of coronary circulatory disorders according to CT myocardial perfusion in asymptomatic patients with MBs makes it possible to timely suspect intramyocardial course of the coronary artery, as well as to consider further management tactics and carry out early prevention of possible cardiovascular events.
Risk stratification of postoperative atrial fibrillation in isolated off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting: focus on left atrial strain characteristics
Authors: Ilov N. N. , Gerasimenko S. M. , Stompel D. R. , Izmailov Kh. Z. , Rashidova T. K. , Karimov I. R. , Kolesnikov V. N.
Published: August 2024

Aim. To explore the potential of using left atrial strain parameters obtained through transthoracic speckle-tracking echocardiography for predicting new-onset postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Material and methods. The study included 111 patients with coronary artery disease referred for elective CABG. There were following exclusion criteria: recurrent or combined cardiac surgery, cerebral stroke, prior atrial tachyarrhythmia episodes, on-pump CABG, patients with NYHA class 4 heart failure. Patients included in the study underwent transthoracic speckle tracking echocardiography before surgery to assess the reservoir, conduit and contractile left atrial (LA) functions. After off-pump CABG, patients were prospectively observed until discharge from the hospital to record the primary end point — the first-time persistent POAF episode.

Results. During follow-up, POAF was recorded in 11 patients (10%). The median endpoint registration was 4 days. The groups formed depending on the end point achievement were comparable in basic clinical and demographic characteristics and analyzed ultrasound parameters. In the majority of the patients studied, a decrease in LA function was detected. Disorders of the conduit (n=94, 85%) and reservoir functions (n=85) were dominant.

Conclusion. The results obtained may indicate that there is no relationship between the LA myocardial strain parameters obtained during preoperative screening and the risk of POAF in patients with coronary artery disease who underwent off-pump CABG.
Telomere length in young and middle-aged patients: relationship with cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Podzolkov V. I. , Bragina A. E. , Druzhinina N. A. , Vasilyeva L. V. , Shikhmagomedov R. A. , Averyeva E. M.
Published: August 2024

Aim. To evaluate the relationship between leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and cardiovascular risk factors in young and middle-aged patients without cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Material and methods. This cross-sectional study involved 450 patients aged 30 [21;42] years. Risk factors and possible exclusion criteria was assessed through questionnaires and anthropometric examination. In all subjects, glucose concentration and lipid profile were assessed using the CardioChekPA express analyzer (USA, 2017), followed by calculation of integral metabolic indices: visceral adiposity index (VAI), body fat percentage, body adiposity index (BAI), lipid accumulation product (LAP). LTL was measured in whole blood samples using fluorimetry (Qubit 4 Singapore 2020) and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (QIAamp Blood Mini Kit, German 2022). Statistical analysis was carried out using the Statistica 10 program.

Results. The prevalence of the studied risk factors in the main group corresponded to the general population. According to the correlation analysis, LTL was associated with age (r=-0,26; p<0,05), smoking (r=-0,35; p<0,05), obesity (r=-0,19; p>0,05), neck circumference (NC) (r=-0,53; p<0,05), diastolic blood pressure (r=-0,31; p<0,05), cholesterol (r=-0,64; p<0,05), high-density lipoproteins (HDL) (r=0,59; p<0,05) and low-density lipoproteins (r=-0,52; p<0,05), triglycerides (r=-0,46; p<0,05), glucose (r=-0,33; p<0,05), LAP (r=-0,4; p<0,05), VAI (r=-0,57; p<0,05) and BAI (r=-0,32; p<0,05). According to the multivariate regression analysis, LTL was associated with age (B=-0,04, Std. Err. of B=0,02, p=0,03), smoking (B=-0,87, Std. Err. of B=0,26, p=0,001), NC (B=-0,23, Std. Err. of B=0,07, p=0,001), total cholesterol levels (B=-0,37, Std. Err. of B=0,87, p<0,001), HDL (B=0,59, Std. Err. of B=0,24, p=0,018), LAP (B=-0,01, Std. Err. of B=0,02, p<0,011), VAI (B=-0,37, Std. Err. of B=0,16, p=0,025).

Conclusion. LTL is interconnected with cardiovascular risk factors, which determines the significance of their participation in CVD development and biological aging in young and middle-aged people.
Potential of predicting mildly reduced and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction in patients in the post-infarction period
Authors: Oleynikov V. E. , Salyamova L. I. , Donetskaya N. A. , Vdovkin A. V. , Chernova A. A. , Vershinina O. D. , Tomashevskaya Yu. A. , Babkina I. A.
Published: August 2024

Aim. To analyze ischemic and reperfusion injury characteristics, as well as myocardial performance, to identify predictors of reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) <50% 24 weeks after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in patients who underwent revascularization.

Material and methods. The study included were 65 patients (age 58 (52; 60) years), who were examined on days 7-10 and after 24 weeks. Based on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), parameters of ischemic and reperfusion injury were determined. Speckle tracking echocardiography was used to evaluate the myocardial function.

Results. All 65 patients completed the study. Based on echocardiography, patients were divided into following groups: 1 — 45 people with LVEF ≥50%, 2 — 20 patients with LVEF <50%. In patients with LVEF ≥50% 24 weeks after STEMI, there was a decrease in the ischemia injury mass by 32,3% (p=0,001) due to regression of the scar mass by 28% (p=0,008) and the peri-infarct heterogeneous zone by 33,3% (p=0,020). In group 2, the indicators did not change. At the repeat visit, there was a decrease in the number of people with microvascular obstruction in the group of LVEF ≥50% from 44 to 16% (p<0,001), while in LVEF <50% — from 65 to 40% (p=0,045). According to echocardiography, global wasted work in group 1 decreased from 77 (50,5; 105,5) to 59 (43; 92) mm Hg% (p=0,042), while in group 2, it increased from 99,5 (59; 181) to 104,5 (58,5; 156,5) mm Hg% (p=0,765). Global work efficiency and global work index prevailed in patients with LVEF ≥50% at two visits (p<0,05). The following predictors of decreased LVEF were determined 24 weeks after STEMI: ischemia injury mass, scar tissue, microvascular obstruction, global contrast index according to MRI; global work efficiency and global work index on echo cardiography.

Conclusion. Contrast-enhanced cardiac MRI and speckle tracking echocardiography are complementary methods that allow quantitative morphofunctional assessment of post-infarction cardiosclerosis and predict the development of mildly reduced and reduced LVEF in the medium term.
Potential and place of efferent therapy in patients with myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock
Authors: Kercheva M. A. , Panteleev O. O. , Ryabov V. V.
Published: August 2024

Myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (MI CS) is the terminal stage of the cardiovascular disease continuum, leading to the death of every second patient in its severe course. Over the past decades, there are no improvement in inhospital mortality rates for MI CS, despite the widespread introduction of early and effective revascularization methods and intensive care techniques. Recently, more and more data have emerged on the significant contribution of the systemic inflammatory response (SIR) to the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndrome and its complications. The characteristics and impact of SIR in MI CS on its course and outcome have not been sufficiently studied. One of the strategies to influence the SIR course, along with the use of anti-inflammatory therapy, is efferent treatment. However, despite all the above-mentioned fundamental prerequisites for the use of an extracorporeal therapy in CS patients, the introduction of these techniques into clinical guidelines and practice requires exploratory and multicenter randomized studies. This review article summarizes modern ideas and characterizes the existing possibilities of using efferent therapy in MI CS.
Comparative assessment of venous congestion severity and hospitalization outcomes in patients with acute decompensated heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Rogozhkina E. A. , Vedenikin T. Yu. , Timofeev Yu. S. , Ivanova A. A. , Afaunova A. R. , Dzhioeva O. N. , Drapkina O. M.
Published: August 2024

Aim. To characterize the potental of additional paraclinical research methods (ultrasound, determination of body composition) for assessing the congestion severity in patients with acute decompensated heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (ADHFpEF) in the intensive care unit.

Material and methods. We examined 82 patients with ADHFpEF aged from 50 to 85 years, who were hospitalized in the intensive care unit of the Veresaev City Clinical Hospital (Moscow). All patients underwent a standard clinical and laboratory examination, including determination of NT-proBNP, as well as echocardiography, chest radiography, bioimpedance analysis, Venous Excess Ultrasound (VExUS), lung ultrasound. Depending on the congestion degree visualized by VExUS, patients were divided into three groups.

Results. The median levels of NT-proBNP, E/A and E/e', number of B-lines in one lung segment, ECW and TBW, and the diuretics' dose used in the hospital in pa tients with ADHFpEF and severe congestion were significantly higher. Signs of congestion obtained as a result of X-ray examination did not differ significantly between groups. In-hospital death was associated with higher values of NT-proBNP, E/A ratio, IVC diameter, number of B-lines in one lung segment, ECW and TBW. The odds of death in patients with VExUS Grade 3 increased 20,9 times compared to Grade 1 (95% CI: 1,125-387,688).

Conclusion. Higher levels of NT-proBNP, the dose of diuretics used in the hospital, and ECW and TBW were associated with congestion severity. The severity of congestion assessed by VExUS and ECW/TBW are positively associated with inhospital mortality
Comparative analysis of hemodynamic monitoring with pulmonary artery catheter and transthoracic echocardiography in patients with cardiogenic shock
Authors: Ryabov V. V. , Syrkina A. G. , Kercheva M. A. , Yolgin I. I. , Panteleev O. O.
Published: August 2024

Aim. To compare main central hemodynamic parameters obtained by pulmonary artery catheterization and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE).

Material and methods. This prospective study included 20 patients with acute myocardial infarction complicated by true cardiogenic shock. In all patients, number of central hemodynamic parameters was measured using a Swan-Ganz catheter and TTE. Comparison of both methods was carried out by Spearman correlation analysis and Bland-Altman plots using the STATISTICA 8.0 program.

Results. We found quite a lot of agreement between the parameters measured by the two methods in the same patient at approximately the same time. Thus, the cardiac index (CI) is well measured by both methods. At the same time, the correlation coefficient was significantly higher when measuring CI using VTI (r=0,81 vs r=0,81) compared to LV volumes. Therefore, we consider the first method to be preferable. The values of total peripheral vascular resistance (TPVR), estimated by right atrial pressure, did not reveal agreement between methods. At the same time, there was agreement in case of central venous pressure. Measurement of pulmonary wedge pressure did not show agreement in me thods. We believe that this is due to the fact that diastolic function assessment in intensive care patients in the focal TTE mode may be difficult and not sufficiently correct.

Conclusion. TTE can be used to monitor central hemodynamics in cases of satisfactory and moderately reduced cardiac imaging. Both the results of CI measurement using the Bernoulli formula and left ventricular volumes, as well as measuring TPVR using central venous pressure, are statistically consistent. Measurement of TPVR using right atrial pressure and measurement of pulmonary wedge pressure did not demonstrate agreement between the different techniques. We believe that TTE can be used to monitor CI and TPVR in patients with myocardial infarction complicated by true cardiogenic shock.
Clinical effectiveness of amlodipine/indapamide/perindopril fixed-dose combination in patients with metabolic disorders: results of post hoc analyzes of the TRICOLOR study
Authors: Karpov Yu. A. , Logunova N. A. , Kvasnikov B. B. , Khomitskaya Yu. V.
Published: August 2024

Aim. To describe antihypertensive effectiveness of triple fixed-dose combination of am lo dipine/indapamide/perindopril and assess predictors of its clinical effectiveness in pati ents depending on body mass index (BMI) and presence of type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Material and methods. This observational prospective study TRICOLOR (NCT03722524) (n=1247) demonstrated high antihypertensive effectiveness and good tolerability of amlodipine/indapamide/perindopril fixed-dose combination. Subgroup analyzes based on BMI included data from 1144 patients. In a second subgroup analysis, 1128 patients were stratified according to concomitant T2D.

Results. In patients with overweight/obesity and diabetes, good antihypertensive effectiveness of amlodipine/indapamide/perindopril was observed, comparable in blood pressure (BP) reduction with the comparison groups (patients with normal BMI and patients without diabetes). At the same time, patients with normal BMI, compared with patients with overweight and obesity, had significantly lower systolic BP (SBP) (after 4 and 12 weeks) and diastolic BP (DBP) (after 2 and 12 weeks). In the subgroups, depending on the diabetes status, there were no significant differences in the decrease in SBP and DBP levels at all follow-up points. By the 12th week, BP decrease in the group of patients with normal BMI was 32,9 (10,5)/15,3 (8,6) mm Hg, in the group with overweight — 33,2 (11,3)/14,2 (8,5) mm Hg, in the obesity group — 33,9 (12,3)/14,1 (8,8) mm Hg (p>0,05 for intergroup comparison). Target BP <140/90 mm Hg already after 2 weeks of therapy achieved a higher number of patients with a normal BMI compared to overweight group (50,8% vs 37,2%, p=0,009). By the 12th week, the vast majority of patients, regardless of BMI and diabetes status, achieved a target BP <140/90 mm Hg, which demonstrates a good and rapid response to triple fixed-dose therapy.

Conclusion. Thus, additional analyzes of the TRICOLOR study demonstrate the high antihypertensive effectiveness of amlodipine/indapamide/perindopril in hypertensive patients, regardless of the presence of diabetes, overweight or obesity.
Predictors of left ventricular dilation and left ventricular aneurysm development in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Tishkina I. E. , Pereverzeva K. G. , Nikiforov A. A. , Nikiforova L. V. , Laut M. V.
Published: August 2024

Aim. To establish predictors of left ventricular (LV) dilatation and post-infarction left ventricular aneurysm (LVA) development in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and/or with Q wave.

Material and methods. This registry study included patients admitted with STEMI and/or with Q wave in the first 24 hours from the disease onset in the period from November 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023. The study included 138 patients. The mean age of the patients was 62±11 years. Treatment and examination were carried out in accordance with the current Russian clinical guidelines (2020) on STEMI. The levels of stimulating growth factor expressed by genome 2 (sST2), proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein were determined in patients by enzyme immunoassay on the first day of the disease. The patients were divided into two following groups: group 1 — patients with LV dilatation/LVA, n=25 (18,1%), group 2 — patients without LV geometry disorders, n=113 (81,9%). Univariate and multivariate regression analyzes were performed to determine independent predictors of LV dilation/postinfarction LVA.

Results. This study showed that with an increase in sST2 levels by 1 ng/L, the probability of LV dilation/LVA formation increase by 1,53 times. Anterior location of myocardial infarction increases the probability of LV dilation/LVA formation by 63,55 times. An increase in eGFR on day 2 of hospitalization by 1 ml/min/1,73 m2 reduces the probability of LV dilatation/LVA formation by 1,07 times.

Conclusion. The study showed that anterior location of myocardial infarction and increased sST2 levels increase the probability of LV dilation/LVA formation.
Prediction of fatal cardiovascular events in patients with newly diagnosed non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Filippov A. A. , Lozhkina N. G. , Shefer E. I. , Ruzankin P. S. , Voevoda M. I.
Published: August 2024

Aim. To study risk factors for fatal cardiovascular events in patients with non-small cell lung cancer over two years of standard treatment.

Material and methods. This pilot retrospective non-randomized cohort study included 179 patients who were consecutively admitted to the chemotherapy department of City Clinical Hospital 1 from January to December 2020 with a confirmed diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer based on the comprehensive examination and morphological verification according to the 2018 clinical guidelines on bronchial and lung cancer. Diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases were carried out according to national clinical guidelines. The follow-up period for non-small cell lung cancer and cardiovascular disease was 2 years. Logistic regression models were considered to assess the risk of cardiovascular death. The model accuracy was assessed by a cross-validation.

Results. The best model in terms of the sensitivity and specificity sum according to a cross-validation was the model with the following explanatory variables: sex, cancer stage, platinum-based chemotherapy, etoposide, immunotherapy, surgical treatment. This model showed a sensitivity of 70,1% and a specificity of 82,1%.

Conclusion. This approach is easy to implement and may optimize treatment for patients with non-small cell lung cancer.
Review and adaptation of European Federation of Internal Medicine clinical guidelines on acute heart failure
Authors: Larina V. N. , Kokorin V. A. , Lunev V. I. , Suvorova N. A.
Published: August 2024

The article discusses the adaptation of European Federation of Internal Medicine clinical guidelines for the management of patients with acute heart failure (AHF). An algorithm has been proposed for the differential diagnostic examination of patients with AHF and acute shortness of breath, signs of congestion, hypoxemia, including the determination of natriuretic peptides (NUPs) and/or cardiac troponin, assessment of the congestion severity using echocardiography, as well as the potential of chest radiography and lung ultrasound in certain clinical situations. Special attention is paid to methods for assessing and treating signs of fluid congestion, which have the most accurate prognostic value in patients hospitalized due to AHF. Assessment of the prognosis and the need for hospitalization of AHF patients in the intensive care unit are highlighted. Treatment strategies for patients with hypotension and low cardiac output are discussed. The latest guidelines for the treatment of patients with AHF, taking into account concomitant diseases, are presented. Indications for hospital discharge of patients with AHF, optimization of the further treatment plan, effective strategies for reducing the risk of rehospitalization and mortality, both at the hospital discharge and outpatient stage, are discussed.
Effects of Meaningful Choices in Serious Games for Meaningful Learning
Authors: Wong Yan , Bothma Theo , Smith Annique
Published: August 2024

This action research study examines how meaningful choice design affects the overall meaningful learning experience of a virtual reality educational serious game. An intervention was developed to teach hazard detection in mines and was tested by mining engineering postgraduate students at the local tertiary institution. The study's findings revealed that meaningful choice design significantly improved the overall learning experience. This design approach empowered players to tailor their experiences based on their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to establish a personalized flow and pace to master the content. Moreover, participants expressed that the inclusion of meaningful choice design enriched their serious game experience and, consequently, enhanced their learning outcomes.Future research on serious games should focus on exploring replayability, quantifying the impact of positive game experiences on learning, and implementing various game design principles in educational serious games. This study advances game-based education by emphasizing the benefits of using game design techniques and positive play experiences for learning.
Impact of a cognitive training on reading of 6-year-old children
Authors: Claudia Reina-Reina  , Eneko Antón  , Jon Andoni Du´ñabeitia
Published: August 2024

Numerous studies explore the effect of cognitive stimulation programmes on reading skills in children and adolescents, with mixed results. Although several studies support that the relationships established between executive functions and reading skills are more robust at early ages, when the process of formal reading acquisition is being consolidated, there are few studies that evaluate the impact of this type of interventions at the beginning of primary school. For this reason, the present pilot study investigates the possible effects of executive functions training on letter identification and decoding, as well as word and pseudoword reading. A cognitive training was carried out using the CogniFit platform in 12 typically developing 6-year-old children, comparing their performance with a control group of 28 children of the same age and similar socioeconomic status. This protocol took place over 8 weeks, with a mean of 19 minutes of training per week. The results obtained indicate that the experimental group showed a higher reading speed in letter recognition than the control group. However, no effect was found in the rest of the reading skills. These promising results indicate that additional research is needed to clarify the lack of convergence reported in the current scientific literature.
İlkokul Birinci Sınıf Öğrencilerinin Okul Stresi ve Sınıf Öğretmenlerinin Görüşlerine Göre Alınması Gereken Tedbirler
Authors: Recepoğlu Ergün , Çınar Hülya
Published: August 2024

Bu çalışmanın amacı ilkokul birinci sınıf öğrencilerinin okul stresini azaltmak için alınması gereken tedbirleri belirlemektir. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu Kastamonu ili ve Devrekâni ilçesinde 5 ilkokulda görev yapan 61 sınıf öğretmeni oluşturmaktadır. Araştırma nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden biri olan fenomenoloji desenine göre tasarlanmıştır. Araştırmanın verileri araştırmacılar tarafından geliştirilen yarı-yapılandırılmış form kullanılarak elde edilmiştir ve veriler içerik analizi yöntemlerinden kategorisel analiz ile analiz edilmiştir. Araştırmada bilgi toplamak için sınıf öğretmenlerinden ‘‘İlkokul birinci sınıf öğrencilerinin okul stresini azaltmak için hangi tedbirler alınmalıdır?’’ sorusunu cevaplamaları istenmiştir ve cevaplar yarı yapılandırılmış formda bulunan 4 kategoriye (ebeveynler, öğretmenler, Milli Eğitim Bakanlığı, diğer) yazılmıştır. Araştırmada sınıf öğretmenleri tarafından 47 farklı tedbir önerilmiştir. Tedbirlerin toplam frekansı 460’tır. Tedbirlerin 15’inin frekansı 10 ya da 10’un üzerindedir. Diğer taraftan frekansı 10’un altında olan 32 tedbir bulunmuştur. Örtüşen tedbirler tekrar gruplandırılmıştır. Araştırmada ilkokul birinci sınıf öğrencilerinin okul stresini azaltmak amacıyla ebeveynler, öğretmenler ve Milli Eğitim Bakanlığı’nın birlikte çalışması gerektiği sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
Kimya Eğitiminde Türk Atasözlerinden Yararlanma
Authors: Aytaş Gıyasettin , Arıer Karaöz Nesrin , Tufan Yüksel
Published: August 2024

İnsanlar arasında en önemli anlaşma araçlarından biri olan dil, diğer taraftan da birey olmanın yanında, bir millete mensup olmanın da en önemli göstergelerindendir. Bir dile sahip olmak, onunla iletişim kurmak her zaman o dilin çok iyi bilindiği anlamına gelmez. Dilin bütün yönleriyle bilinmesi ve bu özelliklerine uygun kullanılması gerekmektedir. Özellikle çağrışımlar bir dilin en zengin kaynaklarıdır. Atasözleri bu bakımdan, dile ait zenginliği göstermenin yanında, bir milletin hafızasını ve zihin dünyasını da sergilemesi bakımından üzerinde durulması gerekmektedir. Uzun tecrübeler sonunda elde edilen birikimin yansıması olan atasözleri, birçok bilim alanından beslendiği gibi kimya bilimi ile de yakından ilgili olduğu görülmektedir. Eğitim ve öğretime verilen önem gün geçtikçe artmakta, bu nedenle eğitim ve öğretimi daha kaliteli hale getirmek için çeşitli çalışmalar yapılmaktadır. Bu çalışmalar daha çok soyut kavramları öğrenciye öğretmek üzere yoğunlaşmıştır. Soyut kavramların öğretiminde anoloji (metafor) tekniği büyük önem taşır. Bireyin yaşanmışlıkları onun bu yaşanmışlığını kullanarak başka konularla ilişki kurmasına olanak sağlar. Kimya dersinde de kimi konular soyut nitelikte olduğu için kimya öğretiminde anoloji kullanılması uygun bir yöntem olabilir. Bu çalışmada çocukluğumuzdan bu yana duyduğumuz atasözlerinin kullanılmasının kimya öğretimindeki etkisi araştırılmıştır. Örneklem olarak seçilen atasözlerinin kimya eğitiminde kullanılmasının etkisi araştırılmış ve bu etkinin somut ve soyut kavramlar arasındaki ilişkilendirmede önemli olduğu anlaşılmıştır. Diğer yandan, atasözleri hakkında yeterli bilgi ve birikime sahip olanların, bunları öğrenme sürecinde daha etkin hale dönüştüreceği de ortaya çıkmıştır.