bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFEITOS DAS RELAÇÕES FAMILIARES NO MANEJO DA DOR EM RECÉM-NASCIDO: REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA
Authors: De Assis Vasconcellos Prado Tamires , De Castro Barbosa Leonello Daniela , Dutra Brazão Lelis Beatriz , Escalianti Del'Alamo Guarda Laise , Leite Moraes Adriana
Published: May 2024

Objetivo: Analisar, na literatura, os efeitos das relações familiares no manejo da dor em recém-nascidos. Método: Revisão sistemática com busca e seleção nas seguintes bases de dados: MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Embase, Web of Science, LILACS, IBECS e BDENF. A amostra foi constituída por 17 estudos clínicos, sem delimitação geográfica, temporal ou de idioma. A análise foi realizada de forma descritiva, sendo ainda utilizada a classificação do nível de evidência para caracterizar as produções incluídas. Resultados: A dor constituiu o principal parâmetro de avaliação, especialmente durante a após procedimentos invasivos, sendo mensurada por meio de escalas de medida, assim como de parâmetros comportamentais e laboratoriais. As principais intervenções identificadas foram expressas pelo método canguru e pela amamentação que predominaram na maioria dos estudos incluídos. Outras estratégias evidenciadas envolveram a voz materna e a educação digital em saúde dos familiares. Todas as intervenções identificadas foram descritas como importante método não farmacológico para redução da dor, resultando no controle da duração e da intensidade do choro, da frequência, do nível basal de cortisol e da saturação de oxigênio. Conclusão: A participação materna e familiar pode ser considerada uma importante estratégia não farmacológica para alívio da dor no recém-nascido, estando relacionada a melhorias das condições fisiológicas, laboratoriais e comportamentais durante e após procedimentos dolorosos.
Tackling dietary inequalities in the UK food system: An exploration of stakeholders’ experiences to deliver national recommendations for policy and health care practitioners (a framework for action)
Authors: Lonnie Marta , Crabtree Daniel R , Johnstone Alexandra
Published: May 2024

In this White Paper, we present the findings from two of the FIO Food project stakeholders’ workshops that we ran at the beginning of 2024. We have co-produced knowledge across academics, stakeholders and consumers' lived experience to formulate actions for policy makers and health care professionals. All of these insights were equally needed to explore potential avenues that can be applied in the food system to promote healthier and more sustainable choices in the food retail environment, particularly among those with greater health risks.
Understanding the Neurobiological Differences Between ADHD and Typical Individuals from a Topological Conceptual Perspective
Authors: Montgomery Richard Murdoch
Published: May 2024

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that has been extensively studied for its behavioral symptoms. However, the neurobiological underpinnings remain less understood. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the structural, functional, and topological differences in the brain between individuals with ADHD and those without the disorder. Key structural differences include reduced brain volume in specific regions and compromised white matter integrity. Functionally, altered connectivity patterns and hyperactivity in certain brain regions have been observed. Topologically, the architecture of brain networks in ADHD shows disruptions in small-worldness, modularity, and the role of hub regions. The article concludes with a discussion on the implications of these neurobiological differences for diagnosis andtreatment, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to deepen our understanding of this complex condition.
Mary Had a Little... : Stimulus-Elicited Involuntary Musical Imagery
Authors: White Nathan , Velasquez Anthony , Gazzaley Adam , Morsella Ezequiel
Published: May 2024

We used the reflexive imagery task (RIT) to investigate how musical imagery can arise involuntarily in response to an external stimulus. In the basic RIT, participants are presented with visual objects and instructed not to think of the names of these objects. On a majority of the trials, the participants reported that they thought of the name of the objects. The imagery elicited by RITs are of very short duration (e.g., the time it takes to subvocalize a name). It has been proposed that RIT effects cannot arise for imagery that is of longer duration (e.g., musical imagery). To investigate this matter, in our version of the RIT, participants heard and learned four simple, novel songs. The lyrics for each song consisted of numbers, counting from one to ten. The Low Training condition consisted of 10 presentations of each song; the High Training condition consisted of 30 presentations of each song. After training, participants were presented with fragments of each melody (fragments of different lengths) and instructed to not “sing in their minds” the remainder of the melody. Participants reported whether they involuntarily continued the melody as musical imagery and reported the number associated with the termination point of the experienced imagery. One-third of the participants experienced substantive, involuntary musical imagery. The current finding illuminates the limitations of involuntary mechanisms.
Differential attentional demands on implicit and explicit associative memory in children 8-12 years old
Authors: Davis Emily E. , Thomas Hannah , Price Matthew , Campbell Karen L. , Mahy Caitlin
Published: May 2024

Associative memory improves during childhood, suggesting an age-related improvement in the binding mechanism responsible for linking information together. However, tasks designed to measure associative memory not only measure binding, but also place demands on attention. This makes it difficult to dissociate age-related improvements in memory from the development of attention. One way to reduce attentional demands is to test memory implicitly versus explicitly. In this study, children (8-, 10-, and 12-years-old) completed separate implicit and explicit associative memory tests. For the implicit task, children incidentally encoded pairs of objects by making an object categorization decision. At test, they completed the same task, but unbeknownst to the participants, the pairs were either intact, rearranged, or new. Next, children completed another incidental encoding phase, then an explicit test in which they indicated whether the pairs were intact, rearranged, or new. For the implicit test, all age groups had faster reaction times for intact than rearranged pairs (indicative of implicit associative memory). In the explicit test, memory performance (d’) improved with age. A separate measure of attention related to performance in both the explicit and implicit tasks. Together, these results support that attentional mechanisms are responsible for age-related improvements in associative memory.
Experts’ remote viewing guidelines
Authors: Katz Debra , Tressoldi Patrizio
Published: May 2024

A survey of renowned experts in remote viewing was conducted to gather their opinions on the best procedures and conditions for obtaining the best results in clairvoyance and precognition tasks. The main recommendations from the eleven experts who responded are that participants had at least one year of experience in remote viewing protocols, were in a comfortable and agreeable environment, and had a positive attitude toward those interacting with them. Some experts also recommended practicing meditation before the task and allowing the participants all the necessary time to complete the task which could be carried out solo or as a small group.
Burdening the Predictive Mind: A Predictive Processing Approach to Health-Related Burdens
Authors: Smart Paul Richard , Fair Nic , Fraser Simon , Boniface Michael
Published: May 2024

The notion of burden features as a central aspect of research into the challenges faced by patients and their carers, especially in regard to long-term health conditions and multimorbidity. Research in this area has considered the burdens that stem from the presence of disease (e.g., symptom burden) as well as the burden associated with healthcare interventions (e.g., treatment burden). While there have been a number of attempts to theorize burden, there is, at present, little consensus on how burdens ought to be understood. It is, in particular, unclear what makes something a burden, why certain things are perceived as burdensome, what forces and factors moderate the experience of burden, and how burdensome experiences relate to other experiential constructs, such as wellbeing, despair, and suffering. The present paper seeks to advance our understanding of burden by drawing on predictive processing accounts of brain function. All burdens, it is suggested, have their origins in a reduced capacity to fulfill neurally-realized expectations (or predictions). This is marked by a hypothesized increase in a particular form of prediction error, dubbed expected prediction error. In addition to providing a unitary theoretical approach to burden, the present account supports the effort to apply predictive processing to a wider array of clinical and health-related phenomena.
Beyond Syntax: Exploring Moroccan Undergraduate EFL Learners’ Engagement with AI-Assisted Writing
Authors: Moussa Anass , Belhiah Hassan
Published: May 2024

Amidst the rapid integration of artificial intelligence into education, this research aims to uncover patterns and themes within student-written assignments, shedding light on the diverse impacts of AI tools on the writing process. This study explores the intricate dynamics of undergraduate EFL learners’ interaction with AI-supported writing tools, focusing specifically on writing. The investigation, guided by questions about student use of AI-supported writing tools and the influence of different tools on writing quality, addresses notable gaps in the existing literature. A quasi-experimental study was conducted with purposive sampling of 62 Business Law undergraduates enrolled in a general English course at the International University of Rabat, Morocco, dividing them into two groups: one received structured AI training, while the other acted as a control group. Results revealed positive outcomes in language proficiency, creativity, organizational skills, and vocabulary use with AI assistance, emphasizing the transformative impact of AI on writing. The study also observed shifting preferences in AI writing tools, urging educators and developers to adapt to evolving user choices and promote continuous innovation in AI writing tools.
Locating the Intersection of Generative Artificial Intelligence and Human English Writing Skills: A Comparative Study
Authors: Ali Sadia
Published: May 2024

This paper offers a multi-dimensional comparative analysis of the linguistic characteristics found in the introduction sections of dissertations produced by ChatGPT and those written by Saudi authors. This research paper aims to analyze the linguistic variation in the introduction part of the dissertations written by Saudi writers compared with the introduction produced by ChatGPT. An extensive analysis of more than 150 linguistic features, including lexico-grammatical structures and semantic nuances, is performed using Multidimensional Analysis Tagger (MAT) tagger. A corpus of dissertation introductions written by Saudi students is compiled and analyzed. Furthermore, a corpus is created that comprises introductions produced by ChatGPT. The study investigates the relationship between language produced by AI and human-written content, revealing unique linguistic preferences. The results indicate ChatGPT is more informational, explicit and less non-narrative and non-argumentative than human-written introductions. There is a significant difference in discourse production on dimension five, as human-written introductions produce abstract and ChatGPT produces non-abstract discourse. The study is significant as it highlights the linguistic differences between the writing styles of ChatGPT and Saudi writers, indicating potential areas of improvement for AI-generated texts.
Integration of AI into the Distance Learning Environment: Enhancing Soft Skills
Authors: Borkovska  , Kolosova Hanna , Kozubska Iryna , Antonenko Inna
Published: May 2024

Soft skills have become increasingly essential for success in the modern world, especially in the labor market, where employers value employees’ social and communication skills. Online education, which is an integral part of the educational process in Ukraine, is adjusting to the development of students’ soft skills. Integrating artificial intelligence tools into English language learning is becoming a new direction in soft skills development. This approach opens up new teaching strategies that make learning more effective, engaging, and innovative. While learning English, students develop communication, creativity, and critical thinking skills, which contribute to their educational process and prepare the foundation for employment. The study aims to 1) evaluate the impact of artificial intelligence on the development of students’ soft skills in online learning; 2) identify the most essential soft skills for their effective learning and future employment based on a student survey; 3) develop criteria for an online course using artificial intelligence and outline strategies for integrating the ChatGPT tool into distance learning English classes. To achieve the objectives of our study, we developed and processed a questionnaire, collected quantitative data, and analyzed and interpreted qualitative data; the study sample included 304 students. The questionnaire results showed a generally positive attitude of students towards using artificial intelligence in English for Specific Purposes courses. They opened up prospects for introducing an online course in the English for Specific Purposes program and further research, including an experiment with the introduction of this online course.
Analyzing the Possibilities of Implementation of AI and Social Networks in Teaching Foreign Language Students: Ukrainian Universities Case Study
Authors: Ivanytska Natalia , Vasylivna* Koliasa Olena , Kovalevska Tetiana , Matsera Olha , Tetiana Tkachuk
Published: May 2024

The growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and social networks into the educational landscape has raised questions about their impact on teaching and learning, particularly in foreign language instruction. This study explores the didactic properties of social networks and AI as information and communication technology (ICT) tools in the context of foreign language education at the university level. Through a comprehensive literature review, the researchers analyzed global studies on the integration of AI and social networks in language learning, as well as research specific to the Ukrainian higher education context. A SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis was conducted to systematically evaluate the potential benefits and challenges associated with the implementation of these technologies in foreign language instruction. The findings indicate that using AI-driven language learning applications, and social media platforms can significantly enhance vocabulary retention, language proficiency, and student engagement. However, the study also highlights potential threats, such as risks to academic integrity, entrenchment of discrimination, and the democratization of plagiarism. The research further emphasizes the importance of addressing teachers’ skills in navigating the ethical implications of AI integration in educational settings. The study provides valuable insights for university administrators, language instructors, and educational technology researchers. It underscores the need for a nuanced and informed approach to incorporating AI and social networks into foreign language curricula, balancing the pedagogical benefits with appropriate safeguards to ensure the quality and integrity of the educational process. The findings contribute to the evolving discourse on the role of emerging technologies in transforming higher education and language teaching.
Investigating EFL Faculty Members’ Perceptions of Integrating Artificial Intelligence Applications to Improve the Research Writing Process: A Case Study at Majmaah University
Authors: Mudawy Ammar Mohammed Ahmed
Published: May 2024

The recent mainstreaming of Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications and tools has significantly enhanced EFL educators’ research writing process. Nevertheless, few studies exist regarding how EFL educators understand AI applications and their integration into research writing processes and techniques. The current study aims to investigate the attitudes and perceptions of (n= 40) EFL teachers at Majmaah University concerning integrating AI tools in the Research writing process, by collecting data from mixed-methods source questionnaires and interviews. Thematic analysis was employed for qualitative data, while descriptive and inferential statistics through SPSS were used for quantitative data analysis. The questionnaire results demonstrated that most respondents have positive perceptions toward integrating AI tools, believing they can improve efficiency and quality in the research writing process. However, more familiarity with existing AI applications is needed to ensure this integration process. Moreover, the study affirms the significant impact of training and support on the effective integration of AI tools. Respondents strongly agree about the benefits of AI applications in streamlining literature reviews, aiding in data analysis, reducing errors, and enhancing overall language quality. Interview responses further emphasize the possible benefits of AI tools in the research writing process, highlighting efficiency gains, assistance in various writing tasks, and improved quality of EFL teachers’ research articles. All the participants stress the importance of ethical utilization, maintaining quality, and vigilance when integrating these tools into the research writing process.
Using ChatGPT as a Learning Tool: A Study of Ukrainian Students’ Perceptions
Authors: Pavlenko Olha , Syzenko Anastasiia
Published: May 2024

Artificial intelligence and generative AI in higher education emerge as transformative forces, profoundly impacting educational practices and methodologies. This paper explores students’ experiences using ChatGPT for learning purposes and investigates their satisfaction levels with the support provided by this tool. For data collection, the authors developed a questionnaire, and a study was conducted among a random sample of 247 university students from Ukraine graduating in Business, Engineering, and IT. The findings confirm that students most commonly rely on ChatGPT when searching for information and working on language-related tasks, such as text editing and text improvements. The study contributes to a better understanding of AI tool integration in diverse academic disciplines, highlighting the importance of tailored strategies to meet distinct needs and expectations across various specialisms in higher education. Moreover, the findings suggest high satisfaction among students of all three specialisms with using ChatGPT for learning purposes, including working on tasks and assignments, and a positive attitude toward this tool in promoting the quality of learning. The results of this study may encourage administrators and educators at higher education institutions to incorporate good practices on using Generative AI tools into curricula and instructional practices, with relevant guidelines on the use of AI and a substantial focus on developing students’ skills on how to use generative AI tools effectively for different purposes and in various academic and professional domains.
Tapping into the Pedagogical Potential of infinigoChatIC: Evidence from iWrite Scoring and Comments and Lu & Ai’s Linguistic Complexity Analyzer
Authors: Danping Dong
Published: May 2024

ChatGPT has drawn rapid interest among linguists and language teachers, with academics and industries rushing to tap into its potential. Yet the pedagogical potential of ChatGPT for L2 English writing remains to be further explored academically. This study aims to examine the effects of ChatGPT, or one of its Chinese versions called infinigoChatIC, in improving the quality of L2 writing and in facilitating the development of L2 proficiency among some postgraduate students learning an English reading and writing course in a prestigious university in Southwest China. Specifically, the main research questions focus on how infinigoChatIC-polished L2 English writings perform in comparison to L2 learner writings, and how the improvement of English writing is reflected in the changes of lexical and syntactic complexity, as evidenced by measured data and its pedagogical significance. A set of 24 English writings are collected as part of regular homework assignments, then this set of English writing is polished by the teacher researcher in the infinigoChatIC dialogue box with the prompt “please correct grammatical errors in the following English text so that it is grammatically accurate.” These two sets of writings are scored in iWrite automatic scoring system and then analyzed in Lu & Ai’s web-interfaced linguistic complexity analyzer. The study finds that infinigoChatIC can effectively improve the quality of L2 English writing, with lexical complexity vastly improved and yet surprisingly overall syntactic complexity slightly reduced. Pedagogical implications are discussed.
Harnessing AI Chatbots for EFL Essay Writing: A Paradigm Shift in Language Pedagogy
Authors: Pitychoutis Konstantinos M.
Published: May 2024

In a time when digital technologies are changing educational paradigms, this study delves into integrating Artificial Intelligence chatbots in enhancing English as a foreign language essay writing, marking a significant shift in language pedagogy. With the backdrop of increasing reliance on technology in educational settings, the research foregrounds Artificial Intelligence chatbots’ potential to revolutionise traditional teaching methodologies. This article aims to scrutinise the efficacy of these digital assistants in augmenting the essay-writing skills of English learners, underlining the importance of aligning technological advancements with educational needs. By investigating the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence chatbots into English as a foreign language curriculum, the study highlights their capacity to offer immediate, personalised feedback, fostering a learning environment that supports individual learners’ needs and preferences. The central inquiry revolves around identifying and optimising the mechanisms through which Artificial Intelligence chatbots can contribute to developing writing proficiency among English students. Through a comprehensive review, the paper presents insights into the pedagogical benefits and challenges of using Artificial Intelligence chatbots, including their role in promoting learner autonomy, accommodating diverse learning styles, and providing a safe space for linguistic experimentation. The findings underscore the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence chatbots in language education, advocating for a paradigmatic shift towards more interactive, responsive, and learner-centred teaching approaches. This review not only reaffirms the significance of integrating technology into language learning but also opens new avenues for enhancing the educational experiences of English learners.
Evaluation of the Translation of Separable Phrasal Verbs Generated by ChatGPT
Authors: Alosaimi Basmah Abdulmohsen , Alawad Nouf Abdulaziz
Published: May 2024

Translation is one of the fields that have benefited from the significant growth that Natural Language Processing has witnessed. ChatGPT is one of the prominent products of such development promoted for its capability of producing human-like translation, among many other things. The main aim of this article is to explore the ability of ChatGPT to translate separable phrasal verbs, which can pose a real challenge to translators as one or more words separate their parts. Therefore, the significance of this paper stems from the pressing necessity to evaluate the utilization of such a tool to address such specific translation issues as it attempts to answer the question of to what extent ChatGPT can translate separable phrasal verbs clearly and accurately. This research paper has followed the qualitative method to analyze the accuracy and clarity of the translation of the separable phrasal verbs generated by ChatGPT. The findings revealed that ChatGPT can translate such phrases clearly, yet human intervention is needed to ensure an accurate delivery.
Leptospirose em cadela (Canis familiaris) SRD
Authors: Oliveira Juçara Lopes Ferreira de , Costa Alexandre de Pina
Published: May 2024

The present study aimed to report a clinical case of leptospirosis diagnosed in a mixed breed dog where treatment was chosen without hospitalization. Leptospirosis is an infectious and contagious zoonotic disease caused by the spirochete of the genus Leptospira spp. All pathogenic lineages belong to a single species, Leptospira interrogans. This microorganism can affect both humans and animals, be they domestic, wild or production. Dogs and cats are susceptible, but felines have greater resistance to leptospirosis. Synanthropic rodents in large urban centers or rural areas constitute a major problem, as they end up transmitting it to domestic and stray animals. Animals become infected and end up eliminating spirochetes into the environment through contaminated urine, since leptospirosis has a predilection for the renal tubules. Transmission can be direct through contaminated urine, venereal secretions, placental transfer, bite wounds or ingestion of contaminated tissues. Leptospira can enter the body through intact oral, nasal or ocular mucous membranes, or through skin that is damaged or macerated by moisture. Indirect transmission occurs through contact with contaminated water, soil and food sources. In Brazil, where many locations lack a garbage collection system and sewage disposal is precarious, the tropical climate favors rain during summer, all increasing the role of rodents as vectors of this zoonosis due to flooding. The canine mentioned in this study did not have their vaccination protocol up to date, lived in a place with the presence of rodents, and was diagnosed positive for L. interrogans serovars Bratislava, Pomona and Copenhageni by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), considered the gold standard. The changes in the blood count were limited to normocytic normochromic anemia and hyperproteinemia. No noteworthy changes were observed in the white blood cell count and, in the biochemical tests, liver and kidney changes consistent with the pathology were evident. The therapeutic protocol chosen was antibiotic therapy and supportive therapy, both carried out at the guardian's home, and the prognosis was favorable. Preventive vaccination measures according to the challenge faced in the environment, rodent control and also public policies regarding basic sanitation are important in preventing in zoonosis.
The Territorial Distribution of Incidence with Urogenital Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and their Associated Complications in the Russian Federation
Authors: Abramov A. A.
Published: May 2024

Relevance. Urogenital chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Chlamydia often presents with minimal or no symptoms. However, it can be a major cause of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and ectopic pregnancy in women, as well as epididymitis, orchitis, and infertility in men. Aim. To study the territorial patterns of incidence of urogenital chlamydia, gonorrhea, and their associated complications in the Russian Federation in 2011 to 2019. Materials and methods. Official statistics on the incidence of urogenital chlamydia, gonorrhea, PID, female and male infertility in the Russian Federation were analyzed. Statistical analysis, graphing, table creation, data visualization, and research results analysis were conducted using Microsoft Excel 2010 and IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software. GIS mapping was performed using the GIS «Axioma». Results and discussion. From 2011 to 2019, the Russian Federation observed a decrease in the incidence of urogenital chlamydia, gonorrhea, and PID, while there was an increase in the incidence of male and female infertility. The geographical distribution remained stable, with areas characterized by consistently low and high incidence rates. A correlation was found between the incidence of urogenital chlamydia, gonorrhea, and their complications. The association between gonorrhea and PID was found to be more significant than the association between chlamydia and PID, possibly due to the higher risk of complications associated with gonorrhea. However, no correlation was found between gonorrhea and infertility, possibly because this complication manifests with a time delay and has multifactorial causes. Conclusions. Based on the presented data, it can be concluded that the incidence of urogenital chlamydia and gonorrhea affects the frequency of male and female infertility. Therefore, the implementation of screening examinations for sexually active individuals of reproductive age using appropriate laboratory diagnostic methods, along with the development of preventive measures for sexually transmitted infections, including urogenital chlamydia, is justified and should be widely practiced.
Coronavirus Infection Caused by the Omicron Variant and its Daughter Genovariants in Russia (2022–2023)
Authors: Karpova L. S. , Pelikh M. Yu. , Popovtseva N. M. , Stolyarova T. P. , Volik K. M. , Stolyarov K. A.
Published: May 2024

Relevance. Surveillance of new genetic variants and manifestations of the epidemic process in SARS-CoV-2 is relevant for predicting the epidemiological situation and timely introduction of anti-epidemic measures. Aim. To evaluate changes in the intensity of the epidemic process during the long circulation of the «omicron» variant and its daughter genovariants. Materials and methods. The analysis of the computer database of the WHO National Center for morbidity, hospitalization and deaths from COVID-19 of the population as a whole and by age groups of 54 cities of the Russian Federation was carried out. Results. Since the appearance of COVID-19 in Russia in 2020, the maximum intensity was the V (winter–spring) wave of 2022. The intensity of the VI (autumn) and VII (winter–spring) waves was lower. In the VI wave, the incidence and mortality from COVID-19 of the population of the RF as a whole decreased by 2.5 and 6.5 times, St. Petersburg – by 2.6 and 29.7 times, and Moscow by 1.6 and 26.6 times. In the VII wave, compared with the VI wave, the decrease in morbidity was less. By age groups, the incidence decreased more among children aged 7–14 years (4.3 times in the VI wave) and less among children 0 –2 and people over 65 years (2.0 times), there was a tendency to increase the proportion of people over 65 years from 18% to 27%. The incidence rates of COVID-19 in the population as a whole and in age groups were higher in 4 FD (North-West, Far East, Siberia and the Center). In 2022, an interepidemic period was revealed for the first time in Russia, the duration of which was in megacities for 9 and FD – from 11 to 13 weeks. In the interepidemic period, the incidence was less than in the minimum VII (winter-spring) wave in the RF as a whole – by 4.6 times, in St. Petersburg – by 7.1 times and in Moscow – by 15 times. There were no deaths among children in the observed cities, and an increase in the total coefficient of mortality rate is associated with mortality among people over 65 years of age. Conclusion. The decrease in the intensity of the epidemicprocess in the VI and VII waves is caused by the prolonged circulation of omicron and its daughter genovarians.
Effect of Immunity to SARS-CoV-2 Virus on Blood Cellular Composition
Authors: Tatarnikova V. V. , Dubrovina V. I. , Kiseleva N. O. , Vishnyakov V. A. , Bryukhova D. D. , Pyatidesyatnikova A. B. , Bondaryuk A. N. , Balakhonov S. V.
Published: May 2024

Relevance. The new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) is still a public health problem and a threat to socio-economic well-being. Most studies have focused predominantly on humoral immunity, and there are no data on the cellular composition of blood in dynamics. Aim. To study the dynamics of changes in blood cellular composition depending on the type of immunity formed (natural, hybrid, breakthrough, postvaccinal) to SARS-CoV-2 virus. Materials and Methods. A total of 130 volunteers participated in the study. Immunophenotyping of peripheral blood leukocytes using flow cytometry was performed. The presence of specific IgG antibodies to N-protein SARS-CoV-2, total IgA and cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, IFN-γ, TNF-α) was assessed in serum by ELISA. Results and Discussion. A statistically significant increase in BL was recorded in volunteers with hybrid immunity 1 month (14,0% (12,3–16,4%)) after vaccination compared to healthy volunteers (9,1% (6,4–10,2%), p = 0,0007) and people with primary COVID-19 infection (10,2% (8,3–12,1%), p = 0,0134). In volunteers with natural and hybrid immunity, as well as in revaccinated people, an increase in B1-cells (CD3-CD19+CD5+CD27-) was observed during 3–9 months of observation. It is shown that the increase of B-lymphocytes with «switched» class of synthesized antibodies was detected in people with breakthrough immunity. Increased levels of T-lymphocytes expressing HLA-DR were recorded in all individuals during 6–9 months of follow-up. Volunteers with breakthrough immunity showed a significant increase in the positivity index when assessing the presence of specific IgG class antibodies to the coronavirus N-protein compared with volunteers with natural and hybrid immunity. Conclusions. Vaccination promotes protective immunity sufficient for timely activation of memory T- and B-cells in breakthrough immunity and maintenance of immunologic efficacy in hybrid immunity against COVID-19. The results help to assess the strain of innate and adaptive immunity in novel coronavirus infection and to fill gaps in the understanding of immunopathogenesis in COVID-19.
Multicentral Agent-Based Model of Six Epidemic Waves of COVID-19 in the Nizhny Novgorod Region of Russian Federation
Authors: Hilov A. V. , Saperkin N. V. , Kovalishena O. V. , Sadykova N. A. , Perekatova V. V. , Perekhozheva N. V. , Kurakina D. A. , Kirillin M. Ju.
Published: May 2024

Relevance. To investigate the characteristics of the COVID-19 pandemic and introduce timely and effective measures, there is a need for models that can predict the impact of various restrictive actions or characteristics of disease itself on COVID-19 spread dynamics. Employing agent-based models can be attractive because they take into consideration different population characteristics (e.g., age distribution and social activity) and restrictive measures, laboratory testing, etc., as well as random factors that are usually omitted in traditional modifications of the SIR-like dynamic models. Aim. Improvement of the previously proposed agent-based model [23,24] for modeling the spread of COVID-19 in various regions of the Russian Federation. At this stage, six waves of the spread of COVID-19 have been modeled in the Nizhny Novgorod region as a whole region, as well as in its individual cities, taking into account restrictive measures and vaccination of the population. Materials and Methods. In this paper we extend a recently proposed agent-based model for Monte Carlo-based numerical simulation of the spread of COVID-19 with consideration of testing and vaccination strategies. Analysis is performed in MATLAB/ GNU Octave. Results. Developed multicentral model allows for more accurate simulation of the epidemic dynamics within one region, when a patient zero usually arrives at a regional center, after which the distribution chains capture the periphery of the region due to pendulum migration. Furthermore, we demonstrate the application of the developed model to analyze the epidemic spread in the Nizhny Novgorod region of Russian Federation. The simulated dynamics of the daily newly detected cases and COVID-19-related deaths was in good agreement with the official statistical data both for the region as whole and different periphery cities. Conclusions. The results obtained with developed model suggest that the actual number of COVID-19 cases might be 1.5–3.0 times higher than the number of reported cases. The developed model also took into account the effect of vaccination. It is shown that with the same modeling parameters, but without vaccination, the third and fourth waves of the epidemic would be united into one characterized by a huge rise in the morbidity rates and the occurrence of natural individual immunity with the absence of further pandemic waves. Nonetheless, the number of deaths would exceed the real one by about 9–10 times.
Vaccination against Measles in Patients with Oncological Disease
Authors: Kharit S. M. , Fridman I. V. , Ruleva A. A.
Published: May 2024

Relevance. Growing distrust of vaccines around the world, a decrease in vaccination rates have led to an increase in the incidence of measles and a rise in the vulnerability of people with immunodeficiency status. The aim. To study the efficacy and safety of measles vaccination in children with oncohematological diseases. Materials & methods. The study involved 107 children: 74 of them with a history of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and 33 with solid tumors. All children had a history of receiving standardized polychemotherapy. In all the subjects, the vaccination history was studied, the titers of specific antibodies to measles were determined. Children with non-protective levels of antibodies (53 children) were subsequently vaccinated against measles. Results and discussions. Of the 107 children examined, before cancer, 99 (92.5%) were vaccinated against measles, of which 68 (68.7%) patients were only vaccinated, and 31 (31.3%) had vaccination and revaccination. Protective titers of antibodies against measles were preserved in 51 people (51.5%), and 48 (48.5%) were seronegative. When assessing immunogenicity on days 14, 45 after the introduction of the vaccine, it turned out that by day 14, 27 out of 53 children (50.9%) developed measles antibodies, and by day 45, 33 out of 53 children (62.3%), the rest of the children did not developed a protective level of antibodies, including 3 of 6 revaccinated. Conclusion. Thus, children with malignant diseases, regardless of the number of previous vaccinations and the duration of the end of therapy, become unprotected or have low titers of antibodies to measles in 83.8%, and immunization after treatment is effective in 62.3% of cases.
Epidemiological Assessment of Factors Associated with Myopia in Medical Students
Authors: Agliullina S. T. , Lushanina K. A. , Khasanova G. R. , Shulaev A. V. , Plotnikov D. Yu.
Published: May 2024

Relevance. Myopia in students can lead to various problems with vision and affect quality of life and academic achievement. Aim. To analyze factors associated with the presence of myopia among medical students to develop effective methods of prevention of this disease. Materials and methods. A non-anonymous questionnaire was conducted on myopia among medical students of the first to sixth year. The questionnaire was developed based on the analysis of published data and included the demographic information, questions concerning the medical history, family history and lifestyle. The questionnaire data were supplemented with information from recording medical forms No. 025 «Medical records of patients receiving outpatient care». The data of 323 medical students were analyzed. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed. Adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for each factor were calculated. Results. The median age of students was 21 years [Q1–Q3 = 19–23], min age = 17 years, max = 31 years. According to the ophthalmologist's examination, 68.7% of students had myopia (95% CI 63.4–73.7). Healthy weight and underweight were associated with the presence of myopia compared to those who are overweight or obese: aOR 2.433 (95% CI 1.096–5.403, p = 0.029) and aOR 2.774 (95% CI 1.231–6.253, p = 0.014), respectively. The presence of 8-hour sleep is associated with a decrease in the chances of having myopia by 2,321 times (aOR 0.431; 95% CI 0.190–0.979; p = 0.044). A large number of steps per day was associated with the absence of myopia. Those who walk 10,000 steps or more per day are 7.46 times less likely to have myopia than those who walk less than 2,000 steps per day. Conclusion. We report a high prevalence of myopia in medical students. The findings suggest that health promotion, including adequate sleep and regular physical activity, can be an effective strategy to prevent the occurrence or progression of myopia and other eye complications.
On the Possibility of Using the Topical form of the Recombinant Interferon alpha-2b Drug in the Prevention of Acute Respiratory Viral Infections in Organized Groups
Authors: Kostinov M. P. , Markelova E. V. , Knysh S. V. , Lee Yu. A. , Khasanova A. A. , Solovеva I. L. , Korovkina E. S. , Linok A. V. , Lоktionova M. N. , Khrapunova I. A. , Kharseeva G G.
Published: May 2024

Relevance. Respiratory infections are an urgent problem for organized groups, including military ones, since the transmission of pathogens by airborne droplets and household contact routes, physical and psychological stress on adaptive mechanisms contribute to the development of the epidemic process. There is no doubt that vaccination makes a significant contribution to the prevention of respiratory infections, but the contingent remains vulnerable to other pathogens against which there are no vaccines. Therefore, the search for new methods of non-specific prevention is necessary in maintaining the health of persons permanently residing in collectives. Aim. Evaluation of the possibility of using the topical form of the recombinant interferon α-2b drug for the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections in organized groups. Materials and methods. The work was carried out according to the methodology of a multicenter (3 Centers) double-blind controlled trial involving 3,235 people aged 18 to 22 years, who were divided into three groups: 1 gy. - received a recombinant interferon α-2b (Grippferon) drug 3 drops in each nasal passage 2 times a day in for two weeks; 2 g. - saline solution intranasally according to the same scheme; 3 g. - the volunteers did not receive anything. The frequency of respiratory infections was studied. Results and discussion. Medical monitoring of the study participants, which was carried out for 2 months, showed that in the groups from the Center 1, the incidence of acute respiratory diseases for 2 months in the main group (gr. 1) was 2.3 times lower than in the control (gr. 2) and the comparison group (gr. 3). In the Center 2 The data corresponded to the dynamics of Center 1: the incidence values were 2.4-2.5 times lower in Group 1. In Center 3, the values were 2.0-2.1, respectively. The epidemic effect of intranasal administration of the topical form of the drug recombinant interferon α-2b is due to its effect on the factors of mucosal immunity, which contributes to non-specific protection and increased body resistance against respiratory infections. Conclusions. The presented advantages of the recombinant interferon α-2b drug make it possible to draw attention to the clinical feasibility of its use for preventive purposes in organized groups, including military ones, from the position of high epidemiological effectiveness, both pre-exposure and post-exposure prevention of acute respiratory viral infections.
Revaccination against COVID-19: Current Status of the Problem
Authors: Andreeva N. P. , Racic S. R. , Lezhenina S. V. , Denisova T. G.
Published: May 2024

The considerable success of vaccination against the new coronavirus infection, which has led to a decrease in morbidity and mortality in adults and children, requires the study of the problem of revaccination against SARS-CoV-2. The pathogenic properties of the virus and its unpredictable mutations continue to support an unfavorable epidemic situation in different regions of the world. Revaccination regimens against SARS-CoV-2 are being developed in different countries and populations based on epidemiological indications. The issue of introducing vaccination against a new coronavirus infection into national vaccination calendars for adults and children is debatable and requires further study.
Diplomatic Synergy: Pakistan and Russia in the Modern Era
Authors: Ashfaq Kashif , Ishfaq Uroosa , Khan Hamza
Published: May 2024

This article explores the evolving diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Russia in contemporary times. It delves into the strategic cooperative efforts undertaken by both nations to foster regional stability and address common geopolitical challenges. The article examines the historical contexts, geopolitical factors and shared interests that have facilitated this diplomatic synergy. It also highlights the growing economic, military and political cooperation between Pakistan and Russia, illustrating the significance of their evolving partnership in shaping the dynamics of international relations in the modern era.
Dynamic Relations: Examining the Evolving Landscape of Pakistan-Poland Relations in the 21st Century - Trade Challenges and Strategic Opportunities
Authors: Ali Rafaqat , nil Fehmida , Ismail Muhammad
Published: May 2024

This research explores the evolving landscape of Pakistan-Poland relations in the 21st century, focusing on both trade challenges and strategic opportunities. Despite the geographical distance, both nations have witnessed a gradual enhancement in diplomatic engagements driven by mutual trade, security, and cultural exchange interests. However, significant hurdles persist, including limited trade volume, bureaucratic complexities, and geopolitical constraints. Examining the possibilities for strategic alliances and economic cooperation, this paper explores the many facets of the bilateral relationship. It provides pathways for promoting stronger ties and overcoming current obstacles by looking at trade dynamics, investment opportunities, and geopolitical alignments. It also evaluates the influence of regional and international factors on Pakistan-Poland ties, highlighting the significance of diplomatic endeavours and institutional frameworks in enhancing bilateral collaboration. In the end, this research illuminates potential areas for future cooperation and mutual gain by providing insights into the opportunities and complications present in Pakistan and Poland's diplomatic relationship.
Analysis of the Dependency Theory Concerning India's Rise in Global Politics and Pakistan's Underdevelopment
Authors: Iqbal Sajid
Published: May 2024

The 1947 partition of British India gave rise to India and Pakistan, both grappling with similar socio-economic and political challenges. Despite shared beginnings, India has outpaced Pakistan in development, emerging as a significant global player. India's success is attributed to its commitment to democracy and secularism, economic progress, strategic positioning, and military prowess. Its diverse population, stable democracy, and expanding middle-class position India as a responsible global actor and a trusted ally for democratic nations. Meanwhile, Pakistan faces hurdles such as mass displacement, ongoing tensions with India, political instability, and societal unrest. Factors like military rule, corruption, inefficiency, and lagging development impede democratic and civil growth. Sectarian tensions, violence, and ties with the United States contribute to Pakistan's slower progress. Dependency theory elucidates Pakistan's underdevelopment and India's ascent, highlighting India's pursuit of economic autonomy and a robust domestic industrial base.