bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feedback Spillovers across Unrelated Tasks
Authors: Sinyakova Ekaterina A. , Mirzoyan Ashot G.
Published: December 2024

In this paper we describe the results of a laboratory experiment involving 130 students of Lomonosov Moscow State University. The participants were asked to perform unrelated tasks involving different skills: a test of analytical skills and a capitals quiz. After the first task, participants in the treatment group are given feedback on whether they did better or worse than half of the other participants in their group. This feedback is uninformative about the new task, as success or failure in the analytical ability test is not related to whether the individual knows the countries and their capitals. It is revealed that students respond to negative feedback: participants from the group that received negative feedback significantly lower their probability of success in the next task. The peculiarity of the work is to conduct the experiment within 2 days in order to avoid the occurrence of the “hot hand error” described in previous studies. Statistical tests and regression analysis as well as bootstrap are used to test the hypotheses. A time-stable effect of uninformative relative to the new task feedback is obtained.
Self-Assessment of Skills Gap by University Graduates, or What Is Not Taught in Higher Education
Authors: Varshavskaya Elena Ya.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of the paper is to analyse the perceptions of recent university graduates about skills gap; to identify the factors that determine the evaluation of the skill as insufficient. The empirical basis of the study is the microdata of the All-Russian survey of graduates who received secondary professional and higher education, conducted by Rosstat in April-September 2021. In order to solve the tasks, a subsample was formed, including employed respondents with higher education (9684 people). Methods of data analysis are descriptive, cluster and regression analysis.
It has been established that at the beginning of careers graduates almost equally experience a lack of hard and soft skills. Among the leaders in scarcity there were both hard (professional (technical) skills and the ability to use professional documentation) and soft skills (stress resistance, the ability to take responsibility and multitasking). It is shown that the lack of professional (hard) skills and knowledge is more likely to be reported by graduates working in “technological” sectors (industry, construction, transport), as well as educated in mass areas of training (engineering and technology, economics and management, pedagogy). Working in a specialty increases the likelihood of assessing the majority of hard skills as scarce. The perception of many soft skills (communication, the ability to teamwork, take responsibility, self-management) as insufficient decreases with age. A universal factor that is significant for assessing hard and soft skills as scarce is recognition of knowledge and skills as important for the satisfactory performance of job duties. The obtained results can be used to improve the subject content of training programs in universities, in the development of areas of work with young professionals in companies.
Who an Instructional Designer Is: A Competency Profile and the Choice of a Training Model
Authors: Chernobay Elena V. , Lytaeva Maria A.
Published: December 2024

The article analyses research papers that aim to identify the professional competences of a pedagogical designer. The literature review allowed to identify typical (most frequently mentioned) competences of a pedagogical designer in the field of learning theory, soft skills and business communication skills, ability to analyse the needs of the target audience and select adequate tools for designing educational materials, etc. The obtained competence portrait was compared with a set of requirements of Russian employers to specialists in the field of instructional design, which allowed us to conclude that the researchers' approach to defining the competences of instructional designers looks more complete and detailed than the employers' approach. At the same time, the professional characteristics of instructional design specialists identified by researchers and formulated by employers can be used as a basis for designing or redesigning educational programmes for training such specialists.
The article contributes to the research in the field of designing the training of instructional designers within the Russian research agenda, as there are no publications in the Russian-language segment that would present similar material devoted to the analysis of research and employers' requirements and their consideration in the design of higher education programmes.
The article demonstrates the applicability of one of the pedagogical design models, namely the 4/c id model, to the design of educational programmes for the training of pedagogical designers in demand on the labour market. The article ends with conclusions on how to improve the development of educational programmes in accordance with the professional portrait of such a specialist described in research works, the needs of employers and the possibilities of using the four-component model.
What Is the Difference between a "Top" and a "Rather Prestigious" University? Career Expectations of Students of Leading and Non-Selective Universities
Authors: Malinovskiy Sergey S. , Shibanova Ekaterina Yu. , Maslova Ekaterina A.
Published: December 2024

The research analyses how perceptions of career start are related to the institutional characteristics of universities of different statuses using data from 44 interviews with undergraduate students in three Russian regions. Students had similar and vague career images when they entered university, which were operationalised over the course of their studies, but in different ways, depending on their perception of employability capitals and self-efficacy in using them. As perceived by students of top universities, higher education provides them with universal competences, a strong signal to employers, long-term social connections, knowledge of professional culture, practical information, and developed services to support their transition to the labor market. Students of non-selective universities rely on favorable major specialization, tend to underestimate the university's reputational capital, are poorly informed about the "rules of the game," and are passive in the use of university infrastructural capital. Despite the relatively slight variance in the selectivity of universities, differences in the perceptions of the institutional environment lead to a significant stratification of expectations and career entry opportunities. Students from leading universities appropriate the image of a successful middle-class career, have the advantage of trying out different career fields, and a funneled pathway to start from higher positions in prestigious industries and companies. Non-selective university students have less defined and ambitious career visions. They are focused on more modest and incremental development within their chosen major, starting from the lowest rungs of the ladder, but commonly begin their careers in low-skilled and casual jobs.
Higher Education in the Context of Modern Civilizational Gaps. Review of the Book by E. Galazhinsky "Conversations about Difficult Things. Management Practices and Reflections"
Authors: Khakhalkina Elena V.
Published: December 2024

The book “Conversations about the difficult” is a publication of blog entries by the rector of the National Research Tomsk State University Eduard V. Galazhinsky in 2022-2023 and several interviews with the author about current trends in the development of higher education in Russia and the world. The review raises questions about the role and place of technological progress in the learning process, the model of a new generation university in the logic of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and changing approaches to knowledge as one of the educational tools and products. Special attention is paid to the assessment of the Bologna system, its positive and negative impact on the Russian higher education system, the consequences of Russia's withdrawal from it, and the civilizational gaps of modernity against the background of geopolitical realities. In the reviewed book the classical university with its centuries-old traditions and their organic intertwining with the innovations of the time considers as one of the key elements of an effective model of higher education. According to the author of the review, this book can be useful to anyone who is interested in the development of higher education in Russia, its achievements, difficulties and prospects.
BHT-QAOA: Generalizing Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm to Solve Boolean Problems as Hamiltonians v1
Authors: Al-Bayaty Ali , Perkowski Marek
Published: December 2024

The BHT-QAOA is a hybrid classical-quantum algorithm that solves arbitrary classical Boolean problems as Hamiltonians in the quantum domain, using the quantum approximate optimization algorithm (QAOA) [1]. The BHT-QAOA stands for the "Boolean-Hamiltonians Transform for QAOA" [2]. Research and studies are mainly focused on solving combinatorial optimization problems using QAOA, e.g., the MaxCut problem [1]. However, the BHT-QAOA adds an additional capability to QAOA to find all optimized approximated solutions for classical Boolean problems, as expressed in the following steps and demonstrated in the figure below. Design classical Boolean problems into quantum Boolean oracles in different logical structures, such as POS, SOP, ESOP, CSP-SAT, XOR-SAT, just to name a few. Convert these quantum Boolean oracles into quantum Phase oracles. Transform these quantum Phase oracles into the Hamiltonians (HC and HM) of QAOA. Please observe that, from the aforementioned steps, the total utilized numbers of qubits and quantum gates are significantly reduced for the final generated Hamiltonians (HC and HM) of QAOA. Accordingly, the BHT-QAOA will provide broad opportunities to solve many classical Boolean-based problems as Hamiltonians, for the practical engineering applications of several algorithms, digital synthesizers, robotics, machine learning, just to name a few, in the hybrid classical-quantum domain.
MEDIATING ROLE OF PERCEIVED USEFULNESS OF WEBROOMING IN THE IMPACT OF PERCEIVED EASE OF SEARCHING ONLINE ON ATTITUDE TOWARD WEBROOMING
Authors: Tüzemen Mehmet Kürşat , Bilgin Turna Gülçin
Published: December 2024

“Webrooming” refers to the practice where consumers search products online before purchasing them in a physical store. Webrooming is a complex behavior driven by the need for detailed research, the desire for a tangible product experience, convenience, trust, and social considerations. The main purpose of this study is to examine the effect of Internet users’ perceived ease of searching online (PESO) on their attitudes toward Webrooming (ATW) while analyzing the possible mediating role of perceived usefulness of webrooming (PUW) in this effect. Besides, difference analyses are adopted to understand whether PESO, ATW and PUW values change according to gender, age, education, marital status and income level. 322 surveys collected online by convenience sampling method were analyzed. The results show that perceived ease of search in the online environment affects the attitude toward webrooming. In addition, the perceived usefulness of webrooming is a full mediator in the effect of perceived ease of searching online on attitude toward webrooming. This finding suggests the convenience and effectiveness of online research translate into a perceived benefit, enhancing the overall attractiveness of webrooming.
Correction of F508del in CFTR using CRISPR/Cas9 in cells derived from cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Kondrateva Ekaterina V. , Demchenko Anna G. , Volodina Olga V. , Ryzhkova Oxana P. , Kovalskaia Valeriia A. , Tabakov Vyacheslav Yu. , Lavrov Alexander V. , Smirnikhina Svetlana A.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common fatal and incurable genetic disease. The most frequent reason is the F508del mutation in the CFTR gene, which can theoretically be corrected by genome editing. Currently, pressing issue is the search for the most effective CRISPR/Cas9-based editing system for this mutation, as well as the selection of target cells that could support self-renewal and provide differentiated progeny of lung cells. Such promising targets can be presented by human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and human induced airway basal stem cells (hiBCs).
AIM: To correct the F508del mutation in the CFTR gene in hiPSCs and hiBCs derived from CF patients using CRISPR/Cas9 technology.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: We obtained three hiPSCs lines by reprogramming fibroblasts from patients with CF and three hiBCs lines by targeted differentiation of these hiPSCs. Based on three different variants of the Cas9 nuclease, three single guide RNAs, and two single-stranded oligodeoxyribonucleotides we created eight systems for editing the F508del mutation and transfected them into hiPSCs and hiBCs by electroporation. Then we analyzed the levels of non-homologous end joining, indels, and directed homologous repair in the transfected cells by deep target sequencing.
RESULTS: Eight editing systems were tested on hiPSCs. The highest efficiency of non-homologous end joining, indels, and directed homologous repair was observed when using SpCas9(1.1). The mutation was significantly corrected using a combination of this nuclease with the guide RNA sgCFTR#sp1 (with an efficiency up to 6.6% of alleles in transfected cells). Only two editing systems), which seemed to be most effective on chiPSCs, were tested on hiBCs. The mutation was significantly corrected using both systems (with efficiency up to 20% of alleles in transfected cells).
CONCLUSION: We demonstrated the possibility of highly effective correction of the F508del mutation in the CFTR gene in cells obtained from patients with CF using a designed system for editing this mutation based on the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Since hiBCs can be transfected and edited quite successfully, and can also be obtained in satisfactory quantities from hiPSCs, they are a promising platform for the development of gene therapy for cystic fibrosis.
ПОВСЕДНЕВНОСТЬ СЕЛЬСКИХ ЖИТЕЛЕЙ ИРКУТСКОЙ ГУБЕРНИИ НАЧАЛА ХХ в.: МЕТОДОЛОГИЧЕСКИЕ ПОДХОДЫ К ИЗУЧЕНИЮ ИСТОЧНИКОВ
Authors:   Бурятский государственный университет имени Доржи Банзарова, Н. Е. Жукова , Б. Б. Ангархаев ,   Новоселенгинская средняя общеобразовательная школа
Published: December 2024

В статье показано применение базовых теоретических и методологических представлений для анализа описаний повседневности сельских жителей Иркутской губернии начала ХХ в., содержащихся в разнообразных источниках личного происхождения. Авторы перечисляют основные понятия теории повседневности, методы ее анализа, которыми можно апеллировать при реконструировании такой едва уловимой материи, как сельская повседневность на восточной периферии Российской империи. Центральным источником данного исследования стали дневники бурятского этнографа Матвея Николаевича Хангалова, в которых он и изображал сельскую повседневность, однако они дополнены рядом других источников, делающих изучаемую картину более объективной. Применение терминов, понятий и методов истории повседневности позволяет исследователям выявить «вторые» и «третьи» пласты содержания дневников М. Н. Хангалова. Изучение эго-документов ученого насыщает историческую ткань подробностями и деталями жизни «обычных» сельских жителей.
«ИНОСТРАННЫЕ» ГОРОДА КИТАЯ: ШАНХАЙ В ОТЕЧЕСТВЕН-НЫХ ТРАВЕЛОГАХ ВТОРОЙ ПОЛОВИНЫ XIX — НАЧАЛА XX в.
Authors:   Бурятский государственный университет имени Доржи Банзарова, Т. В. Паликова , Е. Н. Хантакова ,   Бурятский государственный университет имени Доржи Банзарова
Published: December 2024

Статья представляет собой продолжение изучения отечественных «travel writing» о Китае и посвящена интересному явлению в жизни страны середины XIX — начала XX в., связанному с формированием иностранных концессий в ряде китайских портов, вынужденно открытых для европейцев. В числе авторов-травелогов миссионеры, ученые, военные, моряки, врачи, писатели, путешественники, которые, посетив Китай в разное время, оставили свои описания и суждения о сеттльментах, дополняющие и расширяющие друг друга. Базовыми стали описания Шанхая, как отмечают экспедиционеры, «государства в государстве», в которых авторами статьи выделены лишь три основных аспекта: структура и внешний облик города, отношения между китайцами и европейцами и взаимодействие культур. Несмотря на активный наступательный характер европейской цивилизации она не оказала существенного влияния на многовековой китайский тренд, поскольку, во-первых, длительность и непрерывность китайской культуры создали прочные традиции развития на ментальном и материальном уровне, во-вторых, иноземное влияние было локально ограничено и, в-третьих, ставило вполне конкретные колониальные цели.
ФОРМИРОВАНИЕ СОЦИАЛЬНОГО РЕЙТИНГА: КИТАЙСКИЙ ОПЫТ
Authors:   Бурятский государственный университет им. Доржи Банзарова, А. Н. Мяханова , Т. И. Эрхитуева ,   Бурятский государственный университет им. Доржи Банзарова
Published: December 2024

Китайская Народная Республика стала первой страной, в которой правительство начало внедрять систему социального рейтинга с помощью современных цифровых инструментов и технологий. Такая система построена на оценивании граждан, где каждому человеку присваивается определенный статус в обществе на основе его поведения и социальной активности. Система социального рейтинга в Китае имеет как положительные стороны, так и некоторые недостатки. Данная система смогла встроиться в правовую систему Китая. Как полагает правительство КНР, внедрение системы социального кредитования направлено на установление добродетельного состояния и социальной гармонии в стране, при которой поощряются честные, заслуживающие доверия и законопослушные люди и наказываются те, кто проявляет признаки нечестности, совершают коррупционные и иные правонарушения. Отмечается, что общий уровень преступности после введения системы социального рейтинга в Китае снизился.
ТРАНСФОРМАЦИЯ СИСТЕМЫ ОБЩЕГО ОБРАЗОВАНИЯ: ВКЛАД УНИВЕРСИТЕТСКОЙ ОБЩЕСТВЕННОСТИ (1990‒2010-е гг.)
Authors:   Бурятский государственный университет имени Доржи Банзарова, А. М. Шойдонова
Published: December 2024

В статье представлена информация о трансформации системы общего образования в Российской Федерации на основе материалов о развитии школьного образования в Республике Бурятия с 1990-х по 2010-е гг. Осуществлена попытка определить вклад университетской общественности, прежде всего профессорско-преподавательского коллектива БГПИ-БГУ, в модифицирование школьных естественно-научных и гуманитарных циклов, внедрение научных технологий в школьное образование путем сотрудничества отдельных преподавателей с рядом ученических коллективов школ республики. На основе опубликованных документов и материалов можно сделать вывод о фундаментальной роли высших образовательных кадров в формировании новых подходов к системе школьного образования.
МАТЕРИАЛЬНО-ТЕХНИЧЕСКОЕ СОСТОЯНИЕ ТУРКИНСКОЙ ГРАЖДАНСКОЙ БОЛЬНИЦЫ И МИНЕРАЛЬНЫХ ВОД ВО ВТОРОЙ ПОЛОВИНЕ XIX — НАЧАЛЕ XX в.
Authors:   Бурятский государственный университет имени Доржи Банзарова, Я. Р. Казанцев ,   Государственный архив Республики Бурятия
Published: December 2024

В статье идет речь о материально техническом состоянии Туркинских минеральных вод, одного из старейших лечебно-минеральных заведений в Забайкалье во второй половине XIX — начале XX в. Научная новизна исследования состоит во введении в научный оборот архивных делопроизводственных источников фонда ГАРБ Ф–183 «Контора Туркинской гражданской больницы и минеральных вод». Приводятся сведения о хозяйственном обеспечении курорта, оплаты труда и кадровой составляющей курорта, даются ценные сведения об имущественном фонде больницы и стоимости недвижимого имущества больницы в денежном выражении. Кроме того, в работе отражена специфика двойного административного подчинения Туркинских минеральных вод, а также влияние на хозяйственную жизнь заведений до передачи в Забайкальское областное начальство. Освещен процесс ремонтных и строи-тельных работ на территории вод в конце XIX — начале XX в. Подчеркивается роль врача В. М. Муратова в поднятии курортного потенциала и внешнего облика Туркинских минеральных вод.
Influence of nutritional anemia on outcomes of colorectal cancer hospitalizations: a national inpatient sample database study
Authors: Changela Madhav , Pandey Sagar , Bahirwani Janak , Patel Nishit , Kaneriya Maulik , Shah Mihir , Basida Sanket , Manvar Kapilkumar , Adhikari Samaj , Panigrahi Kalpana
Published: December 2024

Background: Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer related death globally. Prevalence of Nutritional Anemia is high among CRC patients. We aim to evaluate the role of Nutritional anemia on outcomes of CRC hospitalization.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database, including all adult CRC patients hospitalized in the United States from 2016 to 2019. Patients were stratified into those with and without nutritional anemia (16.19% vs 83.81%) which included iron, B12, folate deficiency and other nutritional anemia per ICD-10 coding. Mortality was the primary outcome whereas length of stay (LOS), total charges, acute kidney injury (AKI), pulmonary embolism (PE), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), colonoscopy, abdominal surgery and lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding were secondary outcomes. Multivariate regression model was used to estimate the outcomes of CRC hospitalization after adjusting for potential confounders.
Results: A total of 504,515 patients were hospitalized for CRC. Among two groups, patients with anemia were older in age. Mortality was significantly lower among patients with nutritional anemia. Lower GI bleeding and colonoscopy during inpatient stay were significantly higher among CRC cohort with nutritional anemia. Similarly, LOS, total hospitalization charges, AKI, PE and DVT were also significantly higher among anemia cohort. However, need for abdominal surgery was significantly lower among CRC patients with nutritional anemia.
Conclusions: Nutritional anemia in CRC patients is associated with longer length of stay, increased cost, higher risk of in-patient complications. Therefore, it should be corrected to optimize outcomes among CRC patients.
Role of selective neck dissection over anti-TB therapy in retreating patients
Authors: Assaduzzaman Liton M. , Rifat Mahmud Asif , Abdullah Al-Mamun S. , Hashim Reza I. M. , Salahuddin Al Azad M.
Published: December 2024

Background: Tuberculous cervical lymphadenopathy (TCL) remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in developing countries. This study aimed to analyze the demographic characteristics, treatment responses, and management outcomes in patients with TCL, focusing on the effectiveness of standard anti-TB medication and the role of surgical interventions in non-responsive cases.
Methods: This retrospective comparative analysis was conducted at the Department of Otolaryngology, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh, from July 2019 to July 2023. The study included 189 patients diagnosed with TCL. Patients were categorized based on their response to standard anti-TB medication over a period of one year and the subsequent management strategies adopted for non-responsive or slow-responsive cases.
Results: The study predominantly involved younger individuals (71.43% aged 15-30 years) with a higher representation of females (68.25%). A significant majority (61.38%) reported symptoms for more than one month. After six months of treatment, 33.86% showed a response to medication, increasing to 46.56% after one year. However, 19.58% exhibited slow or no response. Among non-responsive or slow-responsive cases, 18.92% opted for neck dissection, while 59.46% eventually showed a complete response to medication. The incidence of TB relapse was 6.35%, with the majority occurring at the primary infection site.
Conclusions: The study underscores the effectiveness of standard anti-TB medication in most TCL cases, with surgery as a secondary option for specific non-responsive or complicated cases. These findings highlight the need for early detection and individualized treatment strategies, emphasizing medical management as the cornerstone of TB treatment, with surgical interventions reserved for select scenarios.
Continuous glucose monitoring in critically ill adult patients: results of a pilot study in Greece
Authors: Myrou Athena D. , Didaggelos Triantafyllos P. , Geka Hellen G. , Pertsas Evangellos M. , Ginas Dimitrios K. , Didaggelos Matthaios B. , Aslanidis Theodoros K. , Barmpagiannos Konstantinos G. , Theodoridis Andreas I. , Spanou Styliani A. , Kotzakioulafi Evelina E. , Savopoulos Christos G.
Published: December 2024

Background: Continuous glucose monitoring has emerged as a promising tool in managing glycemic control for patients with type 2 diabetes admitted to the intensive care unit. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the potential benefits, challenges, and implications associated with continuous glucose monitoring utilization in intensive care unit settings for type 2 diabetic patients.
Methods: In a prospective observational study continuous glucose monitoring systems were applied in adult intensive care unit patients in two centers. Eighty patients were randomly assigned into 2 groups: one with continuous glucose monitoring system one with standard glucose monitoring, previous medical history, reason for intensive care unit admission, demographic characteristics and laboratory parameters were recorded.
Results: Recordings from six patients were excluded from analysis. Patients on home insulin and tablet combination therapy had worse glycemic control than subjects on insulin monotherapy or oral tablets alone.  There was no difference in the glycemic profile of patients before and within the unit between those who were Covid-19 positive and those who had different reasons for admission to the unit. However, obese subjects had significantly worse glycemic control. Glucose measurements with continuous glucose monitoring and standard method were in almost total agreement.
Conclusions: While continuous glucose monitoring benefits may allow a more personalized therapeutic strategy, further research is necessary to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and long-term implications of continuous glucose monitoring implementation in the intensive care unit setting.
Comparison of plasma calcium, albumin, and total cholesterol in severely malnourished vs. healthy children in Bangladesh: a case-control study
Authors: Paul Arup Ratan , Shahidullah A. S. M. , Sen Bina , Tumpa Manisha Paul , Farzana Shahnur , Suny Nayem Sultana
Published: December 2024

Background: Malnutrition poses a significant threat to the health and development of children in developing countries. The purpose of the study was to compare plasma calcium, albumin, and total cholesterol levels between severely malnourished and healthy children in Bangladesh. The aim of the study was to compare plasma calcium, albumin, and total cholesterol levels between severely malnourished and healthy children in Bangladesh.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included 120 subjects, consisting of 60 severely malnourished children aged 18 months to 5 years in Group I (Case) and 60 healthy children in Group II (Control), conducted at Mymensingh Medical College & Community Based Medical College Bangladesh from July 2008 to June 2009. Serum calcium, albumin, and total cholesterol levels were measured and analyzed using SPSS version 22.0, applying descriptive statistics and Student’s unpaired t-test for group comparisons.
Results: In this study, Group I (severely malnourished children) had a significantly lower mean weight (10.70±2.20 kg) compared to Group II (healthy children) at 14.30±2.30 kg (p<0.001). Group I also exhibited significantly lower serum calcium (7.3±1.5 mg/dl vs. 8.6±0.55 mg/dl; p<0.001), albumin (3.1±0.32 g/dl vs. 4.5±0.22 g/dl; p<0.001), and cholesterol levels (117.0±17.0 mg/dl vs. 127.0±17.6 mg/dl; p = 0.004).
Conclusions: The study found significantly lower levels of plasma calcium, albumin, and total cholesterol in severely malnourished children compared to healthy controls, indicating critical nutritional deficiencies that require targeted interventions.
Cardiovascular risk and acute coronary syndrome management in chronic kidney disease patients: a prospective observation study
Authors: Hossen Mobarok , Khan Enamul Kabir , Haq Mohammad Nazmul , Islam Mohammad Saiful , Pervin Shanaz
Published: December 2024

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly elevates the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) due to both traditional and uraemia-related risk factors, leading to accelerated atherosclerosis and increased cardiovascular events. This study aims to evaluate the clinical and therapeutic characteristics of CKD patients with ACS, assess CKD's impact on ACS severity and outcomes and identify effective management strategies for this high-risk group.
Methods: This prospective study included 104 ACS patients admitted across various medical centers in Cumilla, Bangladesh between June 2023 and June 2024. Data were collected on demographics, clinical history, diagnostics and therapeutic interventions, with rigorous ethical considerations and informed consent. Statistical analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics to explore the clinical and therapeutic characteristics of ACS in patients with CKD.
Results: The study examined a diverse patient group with an average age of 34.2 years, predominantly male (55.8%). Smoking was reported by 26.9%, with hypertension (38.5%) and diabetes (28.8%) being common. LVEF was normal in 50%, mildly reduced in 25% and moderately reduced in 25%. Chest pain was the most common symptom (26.9%). ACS patients with chronic kidney disease had higher complication rates, including reinfarction (27.9%), cerebrovascular events (21.2%) and an in-hospital mortality rate of 14.4%, underscoring the severity of their cardiovascular risks.
Conclusions: In conclusion, chronic kidney disease (CKD) markedly amplifies the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) by combining traditional cardiovascular risk factors with those related to uraemia, resulting in heightened morbidity and mortality.
Optimization of post-PCI outcomes: the role of early rehabilitation in cardiopulmonary recovery and life satisfaction in patients with heart failure
Authors: Chowdhury Ziaur Rahman , Shoma Farzana Khan , Nadim Kamal M. , Imamur Rashid M. , Abul Kalam Azad M. , Rahman Nadia , Shabnam Mita , Islam Mohammad Asraful , Moniruzzaman Khan M.
Published: December 2024

Background: Early rehabilitation following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in heart failure patients may enhance cardiopulmonary recovery and quality of life while reducing hospital readmissions and complications. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of early rehabilitation on post-PCI outcomes.
Methods: A total of 50 patients with heart failure who underwent PCI were enrolled and divided into two groups: the early rehabilitation group (n=25) received a structured rehabilitation program, while the control group (n=25) received standard post-PCI care. Key outcomes, including cardiopulmonary function, quality of life, hospital readmissions, and complications, were assessed over a 6-month period.
Results: Significant improvements in cardiopulmonary function were observed in the early rehabilitation group. Ejection fraction increased from 40.5±7.8% to 47.1±5.9% (p=0.001), VO2 max improved from 16.1±4.1 to 21.2±3.5 ml/kg/min (p=0.003), and the 6-minute walk distance increased by 64.5 meters (p=0.004). Quality of life improved, with SF-36 physical and mental health scores rising by 30% and 34%, respectively, and the MLHFQ score decreasing by 17 points (p=0.002). Hospital readmissions and major cardiovascular events were significantly lower in the early rehabilitation group (p=0.040 and p=0.031, respectively).
Conclusions: Early rehabilitation significantly improves cardiopulmonary function and quality of life while reducing hospital readmissions and complications in heart failure patients post-PCI. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating structured rehabilitation into post-PCI care to optimize recovery.
Evaluation of the chondroprotective effect of doxycycline in monosodium-iodoacetate induced osteoarthritis in Wistar rats
Authors: A. S. Kulkarni , A. D. Parhe , T. A. Jaju , Y. C. Shetty
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT
Background: Osteoarthritis is a chronic, progressive disease with drugs providing symptomatic relief but limited by side effects. Doxycycline has demonstrated protection against cartilage degradation and promoted chondrocyte proliferation in histopathological studies. However, biomarkers indicative of chondroprotection have not been thoroughly assessed. This study aimed to reconfirm the protective effects of doxycycline in osteoarthritic rats using behavioral tests, histopathology, and evaluation of Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP) and Matrix Metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) levels.
Methods: After IAEC approval, 30 rats were divided into four groups [n=8 disease control (DC), positive control (PC), test group(TG) n=6 in sham control (SC)]. Behavioral tests were conducted at baseline, and on the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th days. Histopathology and biomarker analysis were performed on the 28th day. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05, using ANOVA for parametric data and Kruskal-Wallis tests for non-parametric data.
Results: For locomotor activity, number of squares crossed was significantly higher in TG and there was a significant decrease in the immobility time in TG when compared DC group. Number of falls on Rota-rod test was significantly lower in TG group. Hot plate test indicated higher latency time to paw licking in the TG, and grip strength significantly improved. Histopathological examination showed a 10-20% reduction in osteoarthritis severity in TG compared to 30-50% in DC. Furthermore, MMP-13 and COMP levels were significantly decreased in the TG compared to DC.
Conclusions: Doxycycline has shown antiarthritic effect by virtue of its chondroprotective action.
Comparative analysis of different RNA extraction kits used in detection of COVID-19 virus
Authors: Jhajharia Abhishek , Bhargava Riya , Malhotra Bharti , Tak Amit , Gupta Parul
Published: December 2024

Background: COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, was first reported in December 2019 and declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the WHO. While various diagnostic methods exist, rRT-PCR remains the gold standard for detecting viral genes (N gene for SARS-CoV-2 and the E gene for all sarbecoviruses). Thus, ample RNA should be extracted for the efficient performance of the RT-PCR.
Methods: We compared the specificity, sensitivity, and efficiency of three automated nucleic acid extraction kits: Perkin Elmer®, HiPurA, and Zybio. A total of 96 known NP/OP samples from a biorepository were processed using these kits according to their respective protocols. Magnetic Bead method was employed for the same, followed by rRT-PCR using Quantiplus Multiplex COVID-19 detection kit. The JASP version 0.16.2 and MATLAB 2019a were used for statistical analysis.
Results: Both Perkin Elmer® and Zybio kits demonstrated 100% sensitivity, while the HiPurA kit showed 97.9% sensitivity compared to the original results. All three kits exhibited 100% specificity.
Conclusions: Based on the comparison of sensitivity, specificity, efficiency, cost, turnaround time etc. Perkin Elmer® followed by Zybio are recommended as the preferred extraction kits. Both Perkin Elmer® and Zybio performed well with 100% sensitivity. This study provides alternatives in high demands during surge and in places of limited resources.
Exploratory analysis of epidemiological and clinicopathological characteristics of soft tissue sarcomas: a single institutional study in Chennai
Authors: Parai Shaoni , Ramkumar B. , Raja G. , J. G. Atul , Sharma Manish Kumar , Narasimman Vasanth Rooban
Published: December 2024

Background: Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) from mesenchymal origin form diverse and complex group. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)s are most common mesenchymal neoplasm of gastrointestinal system. Better comprehension of clinicopathological profile needed to improve overall prognosis. The objective is to study the epidemiological, clinicopathological characteristics, treatment outcome and other prognostic factors predicting overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS) in STS.
Methods: This study was conducted in Medical Oncology Department, Govt Royapettah Hospital, Chennai. It is a retrospective study, data retrieved from recorded files of patients with soft tissue sarcomas presented from Jan 2017-Dec 2021, and two years follow up data collected till Dec 2023.
Results: In this study 92 patients with soft tissue sarcoma were analysed. Most commonly found histological subtype was GIST (29.3 %). In our study OS rate at 2 years (years) was 0.80. PFS rate at 2 years was 0.70. Surgical status, staging showed correlation with PFS in GIST in cox regression analysis and both PFS, OS in non-GIST sarcomas. In non-GIST sarcomas grade had correlation with PFS and Staging found as an independent factor associated with PFS. Site of primary in GIST and histopathology in non-GIST STS also showed correlation.
Conclusions: In this study median OS and PFS not reached till the last date of follow up. Surgical status and staging found to be significant prognostic factors for both GIST and non-GIST sarcomas and grade in non-GIST sarcomas.
Evaluation of risk factors of cardiovascular diseases among patients at RIMS hospital in Ranchi, Jharkhand
Authors: Anand Anushil , Ghosh Deepra , Kumar Prakash , Lenka Pritam , Biswas Bappa , Ghosh Sajalendu
Published: December 2024

Background: The substantial death toll and disability caused by the global rise in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) can be largely reduced by assessing and managing the associated risk factors. The 40-69 years age group is most vulnerable to CVDs, accounting for 45% of all deaths. Data on this context for the state of Jharkhand is lacking and the present study was initiated to bridge the gap.
Methods: Risk assessment of common people and patients of CVD was done following WHO’s STEP-wise approach to the surveillance of chronic disease risk factors (WHO 2001) using a structured questionnaire, measurement of anthropometrical parameters, and biochemical analysis of blood samples.
Results: The incidence of CVD is higher in men than in women (8:2), and common risk factors were abnormal lipid parameters and obesity. Compared to asymptomatic common people not under any treatment, CVD patients not under therapeutic intervention to lower lipid levels had a 48-, 34-, and 17-fold higher chance of having aberrant total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and cholesterol ratio (CR), respectively. Low serum levels of HDL are 3.37 times more likely to occur in females than males. The majority of female patients develop CVD between the ages of 40 and 69; however, 89% of all patients were in the 30-50-year-old age range.
Conclusions: Males are more prone than females to develop CVD mainly due to deranged lipid profiles; nevertheless, between 40 -69 ages, the occurrence of female (68%) patients outnumbers male (63%) patients mainly due to menopause and related metabolic syndromes.
An online cross sectional survey study regarding awareness of thalassemia in students of homoeopathic medical college in rural area of Gujarat
Authors: Patel Vijay , Joshi Nidhi , Agrawal Sneha
Published: December 2024

Background: Thalassemia is one of the significant public health concerns as the carrier rate and disease numbers are increasing worldwide. The increase in number is because of cognate marriage which has a deep‑rooted norm among many people globally. The objective of this study was to identify knowledge and awareness among the fresher students of homoeopathic medical college in rural area.
Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was undertaken in the homoeopathic college in rural area of Gujarat. The questions were in the questionaries analysed to identify differences with sociodemographic variables. Responses to the questions on thalassemia awareness were analysed to identify differences in the domains.
Results: Out of the 171 responses received over 5 days, 200 were included for analysis. Awareness regarding thalassemia in college fresher is seen in more from rural area 59%, urban area 39% and tribal 2%. In this survey, as per the questionnaires 83.6% students knew about the disease. When asked about cause of disease i.e. genetic disease 99.4% students knew that. 89.4% students know about thalassemia is transmitted by parents to offsprings.
Conclusions: In this survey, it was observed that college students have knowledge about thalassemia but certain myths or misconceptions were also present, and it is also evident that use of screening survey in medical is needed due to lack of awareness of its usefulness in wide range of diseases and disorders.
Evaluation of cardiopulmonary function and health outcomes among petrol pump attendants in Lucknow district
Authors: Singh Hari , Singh Seema , Raza Syed T.
Published: December 2024

Background: Petrol pump attendants face heightened health risks due to prolonged exposure to gasoline fumes, which contain harmful chemicals like benzene and particulate matter. This community is generally neglected regarding their health. This study investigates the impact of such occupational exposure on the lung and cardiovascular functions of petrol pump workers in Lucknow, India.
Methods: A case-control study of 80 petrol pump workers and 80 healthy controls in Lucknow measured physical and physiological parameters, including systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse pressure (PP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), pulse rate, and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). Analysis utilized independent t-tests and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.
Results: Petrol pump workers exhibited significantly higher SBP (126.7 mmHg versus 113.2 mmHg, p<0.001), DBP (81.2 mmHg versus 72.3 mmHg, p<0.001), PP (45.4 mmHg versus 41.0 mmHg, p=0.007), MAP (96.1 mmHg versus 85.3 mmHg, p<0.001), and pulse rate (85.4 bpm versus 72.5 bpm, p<0.001) compared to controls. PEFR was significantly lower in petrol pump workers (365.3 l/min versus 478.9 l/min, p<0.001), indicating reduced lung function. ROC curve analysis demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy for PEFR (AUC=0.84) and pulse rate (AUC=0.88) in distinguishing between cases and controls.
Conclusions: Petrol pump workers in Lucknow exhibit significantly impaired lung function and elevated cardiovascular parameters, likely due to prolonged exposure to gasoline fumes. These findings underscore the need for improved protective measures and health monitoring for this occupational group.
Integrative management of hematological disorders: a case series on Healzen’s pro therapeutic PRO therapeutic protocol
Authors: Ahirrao Apurva , Kadam Pandurang , Jain Ria , Dubey Dharmendra Kumar , Menon Kavita
Published: December 2024

Hematological disorders present significant treatment challenges due to their complex etiology and need for personalized management. This case series evaluates the effectiveness of HealZen’s pro therapeutic protocol (PTP) in managing conditions like immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and severe anemia through an integrative approach. Five patients were treated at HealZen Clinic, including a pediatric case of acute ITP and four adult patients with severe anemia and related complications. Each patient received a tailored treatment regimen as part of the PTP, which integrated functional nutrition therapy (FNT), platelet therapy, targeted supplementation such as liquid chlorophyll, liquid spirulina, immunoglobulin, Kinotakara foot patch, Carica papaya, and propolis, and supportive therapies with conventional medical care. The case series demonstrated significant improvements across all patients. The pediatric patient with acute ITP experienced a substantial increase in platelet counts, reducing the need for invasive treatments and hospitalizations. In the adult cases, the PTP led to noteworthy enhancements in hemoglobin levels and a decrease in dependency on blood transfusions. Patients reported improvements in overall well-being, symptom management, and reduced frequency of complications. The integrative approach facilitated better patient adherence and satisfaction with the treatment process. HealZen’s PTP appears to be a promising integrative approach for managing hematological disorders, showing beneficial outcomes in both pediatric and adult patients. The combination of conventional and alternative therapies not only improved clinical parameters but also enhanced quality of life. These findings suggest the potential for broader application and warrant further investigation through controlled trials to validate and optimize this holistic treatment strategy.
A rare case of Mayer-Rokitansky Küster-Hauser syndrome with ectopic kidney
Authors: Shil Kishore K. , Mahrukh Hafsa , Ferdousi Tahmina , Banu Hurjahan , Sultana Nusrat , Hasanat Muhammad A.
Published: December 2024

Mayer-Rokitansky Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a congenital anomaly of female reproductive system and is the second most common cause of primary amenorrhea. Utero-vaginal agenesis also may be associated with different other congenital anomalies and mostly involve the renal and skeletal system. Karyotyping and gonadal development are normal. So, patient’s anthropometric measurement, secondary sexual characteristics and hormonal profile are usually normal. Transabdominal sonography and MRI can confirm the absence of uterus, cervix and upper part of vagina, as well as can identify another associated congenital anomaly. We report the case of 25-year-old women presented with primary amenorrhea and normally developed secondary sexual characteristics with normal external genitalia. Transabdominal sonography and MRI revealed agenesis of uterus, normal ovary and ectopic right kidney. MRKH syndrome with ectopic kidney is a rare form of mullerian agenesis.
A clinical case of a patient with left atrial myxoma and obstructive coronary atherosclerosis
Authors: Ludhmila Kalatsei , Shafran Mohamed , Hafeel Aysha , De Silva Pumudu
Published: December 2024

A 74-year-old patient, who was under examination, presented several symptoms, including weakness, cough, rapid heartbeat, tenderness and pain behind the sternum. With the help of transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiography the patient was diagnosed with left atrial myxoma. When coronary angiography was performed, the patient was diagnosed with obstructive coronary atherosclerosis, including occlusion of left anterior descending artery and 75% stenosis of right coronary artery.  After confirmation of the diagnosis patient underwent surgery, which included CABG and excision of myxoma in left atrium. Although the patient experienced some postoperative complications such as post cardiotomy syndrome, bilateral hydrothorax, mild anaemia and left lung pneumonia, she was discharged from the hospital with a stable condition. The patient was also given several recommendations to help overcome her complications, including dietary changes, wearing a chest compressor brace, and taking several medications, including antiplatelet agents, diuretics, beta-blockers and ARBs.