bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined School/Public Libraries in Israel at the High School Level: Some Results of an Exploratory Field Study
Authors: Hiram Miriam , Yitzhaki Moshe
Published: April 2021

The issue of combined school-public libraries has long concerned researchers and practitioners in the field and is well documented in literature. A literature survey reveals opinion articles as well as empirical field studies, especially in the US, Canada, UK, Australia and Germany, which attempt to determine the advantages and disadvantages of this model, and possible factors associated with its success in practice. Despite the importance of the topic and its potential of budget savings and greater efficiency in use of resources, no large-scale empirical study of the extent and performance of combined school-public libraries in Israel has been conducted.

The study aimed to empirically investigate the combined school-public libraries on the high school level existing in Israel. The main research tools were three different written closed questionnaires sent to the school librarian, school principal and one of the school teachers. In 1996 questionnaires were mailed to all 65 schools known to have some type of combination libraries: 26 had a combined school-public library, while in the remaining 39 schools the library was a branch of a regional or municipal public library. Questionnaires were also mailed to 40 randomly-chosen schools, having a 'regular' (i.e. not combined) library, to serve as a control group. Response rate was about 50% and the final sample included 51 libraries: 18 -combined, 11-'branches', and 22-'regular' ones.

Main findings were: the number of combined libraries has risen constantly over the decades which seems to be an interesting trend, especially in view of the recent decline reported in the US and Canada. Regarding space and seats the situation in the regional libraries was much better than in the urban ones. Concerning opening hours the urban combined libraries were open longer than the regional combined ones and the control group. The combined libraries, mainly the urban ones, were open for more afternoon hours, all of them were open during school vacations, and they had a higher average number of weekly librarian hours per school. Regional combined libraries had a much larger number of books per student and periodicals and computers per library than the urban combined ones and the control group. The mean number of users of the reading-room was about the same (usually low) in all types of libraries in afternoon hours, but differed considerably in the mornings, probably due to different teaching methods.

About half the librarians, the school principals and the teachers in the combined libraries rated their combined library as 'very successful', while the rest rated it as only 'partially successful', or expressed dissatisfaction, pointing out serious problems. Regional librarians were much more satisfied with the combined model, compared to their urban colleagues. Findings indicated that the combined model is more likely to succeed in a regional library, in a rural setting, than in an urban one.
Gender Interest Differences with Multimedia Learning Interfaces
Authors: Passig David , Levin Haya
Published: April 2021

In this study we examined whether there are gender differences in leaming interest from different designs of multimedia interfaces. In the study we assumed that design characteristics add to the interest in learning and we developed taxonomy of design of efficient user interfaces both for boys and girls. The research included ninety children from three indergarten class, who were exposed to interactive multimedia stories. The researchsubjects, with the help of a Polymeter (Lampert 1981), answered to questionnaires, which examined their previous experience with a computer, their level of time on task and their level of satisfaction with the various interfaces. The research findings indicate that there is a significant difference between boys and girls in the influence of the design of the learning interfaces on their level of time on task as well as on their level of satisfaction with the different interfaces. Boys on the one hand had a higher level of time on task, and were more familiar with computer games and looked for assistance through navigational buttons. Girls on the other hand tended to ask for help with the game. Girls preferred to include writing into the game and preferred colorful screens full of drawings, which changed slowly. We also found that boys preferred green and blue colon, whilst the girls preferred red and yellow. Generally speaking we found that girls preferred the components of the Mise-en-scene interface, and boys preferred the components of the Montage interface.
Will Minority Languages Survive in the Information Society? An Israeli Point of View
Authors: Seymour Chaim
Published: April 2021

The article raises the role of the minority national language within a global information society. The Hebrew language is a unique case of the revival of a classic language. In the early twentieth century a project was carried out to establish a technical university in what was then called Palestine The founders preferred to teach in Gem an, the dominant international scientific language technology. They daimed that Hebrew was unsuitable for scientific discourse. The opposition succeeded in defeating the founders and thus guaranteed the use of Hebrew in the fields of science and technology. The changing relationships and tension between the local language and the international lingua franca is still subject to debate today and the events of the so-called language war have much to teach us.
Individual Research Projects (with emphasis on Biology) Conducted by Students in Academic High Schools in Israel
Authors: Statter S. , Tamir P.
Published: April 2021

In this study we examined, and described in detail, how research projects are carried out in Israeli high schools, with emphasis on the subject of biology. We attempted to specify the problems and difficulties invoked and, where possible, to suggest improvements that can help the student who does a research project to attain the status of independent study.

The work was done in the framework of two methods, namely, the quantitative approach and the qualitative approach, and in three stages:

Stage 1: A national survey by means of a questionnaire (was sent to the principals of high schools). It was found that: The research projects are generally optional; In some of the schools an individual or goup project is required. The principals provided profiles of the student who is qualified to do a research project

Stage 2: Review of proposaLs, evaluations, and achievements of students who did research projeds in biology. It was found that: Close to half of those who submit proposals do not complete their projects, instead dropping out at one stage or another of the project. The assessments concentrated on three areas: (1 ) the extemal form of the research paper; (2) the use of scientific tools; and (3) the project as a whole.

Stage 3: Mutidisciplinary workshop dass for doing research projects. From the inormation that was obtained from the different questionnaires, it emerged that: The research projects influenced the development of personal and interpersonal skills, and strengthened self-confidence, initiative, responsibility, and independence.
From Net Surfers to Net Seekers: The WWW, Critical Literacies and Learning Outcomes
Authors: Todd Ross J.
Published: April 2021

This paper provides a conceptual discussion of the critical and information literacies that underpin the effective integration of Internet based information into leaming. The analysis and documentation of a case study of classroom use of the Internet during a class research assignment is provided to highlight the importance of developing these critical literacies. The paper recognizes the substantial contribution of Celeste McNicholas, Director of Information Services at Marist Sisters' College, Woolwich, Sydney where the case study was undertaken.
Censorship in High School Libraries in Israel: An Exploratory Field Study
Authors: Yitzhaki Moshe
Published: April 2021

The issue of censorship in school libraries has long concerned researchers and practitioners in the field and is well documented in literature. A literature survey reveals dozens of opinion articles as well as research papers reporting empirical field studies, especially in the US, which attempt to determine the extent and objects of censorship and its underlying factors. Although school libraries have existed in Israel for several decades, some of them dating back to the 50's, the issue of censorship has not been studied. The objective of the present exploratory study was to empirically assess the current state of censorship in a sample of high school libraries in the country. The sample comprised 25 high schools, from both the 'religious' and 'non-religious' sectors. The main research tool was a two-parts questionnaire, designed to be filled out during researchers visit to the library. Most librarians reported that some form of control, restriction or censorship was, always or very often, applied to books to be added to the collection, usually by the head librarian. No library had any kind of written document, or even some permanent unwritten statement specifying instructions or policy regarding book acquisition. None of the librarians mentioned any external pressure to censor the existing collection or books to be acquired, and it was dear that the only censorship was an internal one, initiated by the librarians themselves and other members of the school staff. In both sectors there was wide agreement on banning titles which included violence, hard pomography, racism and drugs, but there were considerable differences regarding 'soft' pornography, Holocaust denial, sexual pemissiveness and books degrading the Jewish religion or its values, principles or commands. A comparison of four lists of specific titles against the catalogs showed that the `non-religious' libraries owned three times the percentage from the first list (explicit violence and sex), but only half the percentage from the fourth list ('Judaism), compared to the 'religious' one. Interestingly, the religious group had lower percentages of both the 'rightist' and 'leftist' lists, due to its smaller collections, but relatively more from the 'rightist' list than the 'leftist' one.
Critical Thinking: Tools for Internet Information Evaluation
Authors: Fitzgerald Mary Ann
Published: April 2021

This qualitative study describes strategies employed by sophisticated adult World Wide Web users as they evaluate authentic Web information with the purpose of adapting these strategies for children in K-12 settings. The participants in this study followed think-aloud protocols and answered interview questions about two Web documents containing numerous misinformation devices. Evaluative strategies from these verbalizations were extracted and analyzed. Findings include a list of strategies and a description of three evaluative “styles.” Finally, suggestions for the use and teaching of these strategies in elementary school through middle school are made.
Information Skills: The Reflections and Perceptions of Student Teachers
Authors: Wilson Kay
Published: April 2021

Part of the “information rich but knowledge poor” discussion concerns physical access to information, but another aspect relates to whether people can use the information they have accessed effectively. In education this is in relation to pupils, but it also concerns teachers. If teachers fail to understand the value and relevance of information skills to themselves as learners, will this create problems in developing those skills in their own pupils? This paper focuses on interviews with (1) professionals who have expectations of student teachers regarding information skills, (2) student teachers reflecting on their own information skills. The data is set within the context of information skills development and the present teacher training ethos in Scotland. Results so far indicate three main issues: first, a lack of understanding about the term information skills; second, a general inability to view information skills as generic skills in a holistic way; and third, an inability and/or lack of opportunity, in many cases, to reflect on abilities and shortfalls.
An Interdisciplinary Model for Assessing Learning
Authors: Grover Robert , McMahon Lakin Jacqueline , Dickerson Jane
Published: April 2021

During the 1994-95 school year the Kansas Association of School Librarians Research Committee conducted a literature review and held a two-day summer institute to develop an interdisciplinary model for assessing learning across the curriculum. Participating were teachers, administrators, library media specialists, and Kansas State Board of Education curriculum specialists. During the 1995-96 school year the committee presented the model to teachers and library media specialists at professional meetings and workshops for reactions. The model has been revised and is being tested in Kansas schools during the 1996-97 school year.

The model is based on the “Big Six” model for information problem-solving by Eisenberg and Berkowitz (1990) and is derived from an analysis of Kansas content standards for language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, reading, and library media. The model divides student assignments in these six subject areas into five parts, using terminology from the standards for each subject. Rubrics have been developed for each of the five parts of an assignment. This paper will recount development of the model, delineate elements of the model, reveal preliminary findings of the current research project which tests the model, and discuss implications for implementing the model.
Information Literacy: Teacher's Perspectives of the Information Process
Authors: O'Connell Judy , Henri James
Published: April 2021

Teaching within a student-centered paradigm in an information society means accepting the responsibility of teaching for the acquisition of integrated information habits and fully adaptable lifelong information skills. Information literacy is critical, yet not enough has changed in education to make in an understood part of the pedagogy of the classroom. Australian studies point the way for developing a sense of clarity for practical change.
The Impact of a Technology-Rich Environment
Authors: Meghabghab Dania B. , Price Catherine
Published: April 2021

The lottery funding for technology in the state of Georgia has reshaped the directions of K-12 schools and redefined education at all levels. The use of technology has improved information access and provided new means for information retrieval.The impact of technology integration on teaching and learning is evident in many of Georgia’s schools. The discrepancies in the allocation of state funding across school levels and among regions, however, have widened the gap between the “information rich” and the “information poor.” This paper describes the impact of Georgia’s Technology Initiative on information access, teaching, and learning. It will address key issues for creating a technology-rich environment and provides recommendations for technology implementation.
A Reality Check: The Challenges of Implementing Information Power in School Library Media Programs
Authors: McCarthy Cheryl Ann
Published: April 2021

How well are school library media programs realizing the mission, objectives and challenges set by Information Power? Teacher-librarians are struggling to realize its ideals in less than ideal circumstances. To gain a broader understanding of their work and success, this paper studies 48 good library media programs in New England Region, U.S. using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods to ensure the perceived success of participating programs in conforming to the national guidelines.
Accepting Tolerance and Diversity
Authors: Hoss Madeleine , Wylie Roslyn
Published: April 2021

Exploring diversity instills in children an awareness and respect for themselves and others. Research projects that address stereotyping, race relations, and prejudice within ourselves can be developed through collaboration between the librarian and classroom teacher (who may themselves be of different cultures). These research projects help children to understand that the world is made up of interrelated people; that people must not be judged on appearance or background alone; and that individuals and their contributions to society are of primary importance. These projects encourage children to be more tolerant of others and to savour the rich diversity of the changing world culture.
Teacher-Librarian? What's in a Name? Making Meaning from Metaphor
Authors: Henri James
Published: April 2021

Under what title should teacher-librarians be known? What is in a name? This paper provides an Australian background to the questions about the name that should be given to those who work as information specialists in schools. The authors review metaphorical analysis as a research tool and outline a qualitative research project employing the metaphor technique in an attempt to discover the conceptions that stakeholders (teacher-librarians, principals, classroom teachers, others) hold about three alternative titles that could be employed by the teacher-librarian profession. This research was undertaken with a number of groups in New South Wales, Australia.
Providing Potential for Progress: Learning Support for Students with Special Educational Needs
Authors: Evans Margaret Kinnell , Heeks Peggy
Published: April 2021

This paper considers the purposes, methods, findings and significance of the British Library LESSEN (Learning Support for Special Educational Needs) Project. The focus was on Year 7 students, i.e., in their first year of secondary education (aged 11-12 years), in ten English secondary schools who were on the Special Educational Needs (SEN) register because of their learning difficulties. Case studies were undertaken in 10 schools located in five Local Education Authorities (LEAs). Data were collected from documents, observation and an extensive interview program, both within schools and with LEA and schools library services staff. Work with individual children was also undertaken, supporting in subject lessons and in the SEN base, as well as assisting in the library, to provide an action research element to the investigation. Varying levels of library and staffing were found and recommendations were made as to future progress. The project report, Learning support for special educational needs is due for publication in 1997 by Taylor Graham.
Handling of Overdispersion in the Poisson Regression Model with Negative Binomial for the Number of New Cases of Leprosy in Java
Authors: Ulfa Yopi Ariesia , Soleh Agus M , Sartono Bagus
Published: April 2021

Based on data from the Directorate General of Disease Prevention and Control of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, in 2017, new leprosy cases that emerged on Java Island were the highest in Indonesia compared to the number of events on other islands. The purpose of this study is to compare Poisson regression to a negative binomial regression model to be applied to the data on the number of new cases of leprosy and to find out what explanatory variables have a significant effect on the number of new cases of leprosy in Java. This study's results indicate that a negative binomial regression model can overcome the Poisson regression model's overdispersion. Variables that significantly affect the number of new cases of leprosy based on the results of negative binomial regression modeling are total population, percentage of children under five years who had immunized with BCG, and percentage of the population with sustainable access to clean water.
Management of hypertension in Nigeria: The barriers and challenges
Authors: Nelson I Oguanobi
Published: April 2021

In recent years there has been increasing concern about the growing burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in developing countries. Systemic hypertension remains the commonest form of CVD and is identified as a key modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular adverse events are public health priorities. This review highlights the potential barriers and challenges to hypertension care in Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria, and proffers relevant recommendations.
TITIK TETAP INVERS TRANSFORMASI BILINEAR DAN TRANSFORMASI BILINEAR KONJUGAT
Authors: Ansar Ahmad
Published: April 2021

Bilinear transformation is one of the basic transformations studied in complex function analysis and it has many applications in various fields. This article discusses about the fixed point of bilinear transformation and its properties. The results obtained are used to investigating the fixed point invers bilinear transformation. This article also explains the fixed point of the conjugate bilinear transformation.
PEMODELAN REGRESI SPASIAL INVESTASI LUAR NEGERI YANG MASUK KE INDONESIA
Authors: Susila Muktar Redy , Putri Rizfanni Cahya , Arini Dian
Published: April 2021

One of the important factors in the growth of a country's economy is investment. Sources of investment are divided into two, namely foreign investment and domestic investment. There are many benefits of foreign investment. These benefits are such as for development, employment, tax revenue, increasing foreign exchange, international trade, strengthening friendship with foreign countries and much more. The purpose of this research is to modeling of foreign investment in Indonesia using spatial regression. The predictor variables used are the number of labor and the net monthly salary. Based on the results of research analysis obtained information that the West Java province is the highest province to get investment funds from abroad. The highest net monthly salary in Indonesia is DKI Jakarta province. The highest number of labor in Indonesia is West Java Province. Based on the results of the Lagrange Multiplier test which showed a significant Lagrange Multiplier (lag) with a p-value < α = 5%. That's shows for the number of labor, the net monthly salary, and the foreign investment in Indonesia fulfill the spatial dependencies assumption. Based on the spatial regression model shows the number of labor, the net monthly salary, and the weighting has a significant impact on foreign investment in Indonesia.
ANALISIS PERTUMBUHAN DAN PERKEMBANGAN BUAH PALA (Myristica fragrans) MENGGUNAKAN FUNGSI BOLTZMANN
Authors: Dalengkade Mario Nikolaus , Karwur Ferry Fredy
Published: April 2021

Buah yang berasal dari Myristica fragrans merupakan sumber minyak atsiri dengan nilai ekonomi tinggi. Penelitian mengenai buah M. fragrans selama ini hanya memfokuskan pada indentifikasi senyawa bioaktif, penerapannya, dan yield-nya. Tapi penyelidikan mengenai perubahan fisik yakni diameter buah belum adanya pengkajian. Sehingga dalam penelitian ini memfokuskan pada perubahan diameter buah menggunakan fungsi Boltzmann , dan penggunaan fungsi yang dimaksud menunjukan luaran berupa garfik sigmoid semilogaritma. Dari grafik tersebut mencirikan tiga fase perubahan kumulatif diameter. Fase pertama terjadi selama tiga minggu, fase ke dua delapan minggu, dan fase ketiga yakni dua minggu. Disamping itu interpretasi  mampu menjelaskan sebab akibat perubahan diameter tersebut.
Hesitant Fuzzy-Stochastic Data Envelopment Analysis (HF-SDEA) Model for Benchmarking
Authors: Abdullah Dahlan , Hartono - , Erliana Cut Ita
Published: April 2021

The Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method is a method commonly used in benchmarking. The Dynamic Data Envelopment Analysis (DDEA) method was proposed to improve the DEA method in the benchmarking process. The DDEA method proposed can determine the effectiveness of the Decision Making Unit (DMU). The disadvantage of the DDEA model is that it cannot handle problems that involve benchmarking for stochastic data. To improve the DDEA method, the Stochastic Data Envelopment Analysis (SDEA) method is proposed which can be used for benchmarking involving stochastic data. The SDEA method itself has weaknesses in dealing with noise and uncertainty problems that will appear in the assessment process. The purpose of the research conducted by the researcher was to use the Hesitant Fuzzy method in optimizing the SDEA method so that the Hesitant Fuzzy model - Stochastic Data Envelopment Analysis (HF-SDEA) could be carried out benchmarking process in a situation where the assessment contained many elements of uncertainty. The results of this study are benchmarking methods that can do benchmarking for stochastic data on conditions that contain elements of uncertainty.
Making Wall Art Products and Using e-Commerce as Marketing Media
Authors: Puspita Khairani , Irwansyah Irwansyah , Daifiria Daifiria
Published: April 2021

Technology today plays an important role in all aspects, both in education and in business, such as sales. Currently in business, the role of technology is needed, especially in product sales. E-commerce is a way of doing business that makes it very easy for sellers to market their products. SMA Swasta Budi Agung Medan is one of the schools that is required to produce graduates who can compete and be entrepreneurial. By carrying out this community service, it is aimed at providing insight and knowledge in utilizing technology as an opportunity in entrepreneurship by utilizing e-commerce platforms such as shopee. In addition, students will also be given knowledge about how to make a product using used materials or materials that are available around us. In this training, the products made are wall art products or wall hangings. These products will later be sold or marketed through the e-commerce platform, namely shopee. So, with the implementation of this service, students are expected to be able to be creative and entrepreneurial by utilizing technology properly and correctly.
Hubungan jarak kelahiran dan jumlah balita dengan dengan status gizi balita di Puskesmas Sapta Jaya, Aceh Tamiang
Authors: Kasad Kasad , Keumalahayati Keumalahayati
Published: April 2021

Background: Indonesia ranks fifth for the country with the number of stunted children with an estimated 7.7 million children under five. Globally, WHO states that around 45% of under-five mortality is due to malnutrition and Indonesia has undernutrition problems that cannot be resolved. The factors causing the high nutritional problems include the number of children under five in the family and the support of the close distance between the births of the babies.Objectives: To measure the relationship between birth spacing and the number of children under five with the nutritional status of children under five at the Sapta Jaya Health Center, Aceh Tamiang.Methods: This study was used a cross-sectional design. The sample size as many as 31 people, using the sampling technique by simple random sampling. The data collection technique used a questionnaire and conducted interviews, as well as anthropometric measurements of weight for age to assess nutritional status. Statistical analysis used the Chi-Square test at a significance level of 95%.Results: There is a number of children under five who experience malnutrition, namely 25.8%. The number of children under five in the family had no relationship with the nutritional status of children under five (p= 0.952), while the birth spacing had a relationship with the nutritional status of children under five at the Sapta Jaya Community Health Center, Aceh Tamiang (p= 0.031). Conclusion: The number of children under five has no relationship with nutritional status, but birth spacing has a significant relationship with the nutritional status of children under five.
Pengetahuan dan praktik masyarakat Indonesia dalam menghadapi pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Yunianto Andi Eka , Atmadja Taufiq Firdaus Al-Ghifari , Yuliantini Emy , Haya Miratul , Faridi Ahmad , Suryana Suryana
Published: April 2021

Background: Increasing cases of COVID-19 in Indonesia every day and creating new clusters. One of the reasons for the increase in cases is the level of knowledge about COVID-19. Knowledge is a person's foundation in practicing his activities every day. A good practice is based on a good level of knowledge.Objectives: The research objective is to see an overview of the knowledge and practices of Indonesian society in dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak.Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design with 6,557 respondents, the criteria were above 16 years old who live in Indonesia. The research was conducted in June 2020. The questionnaire is an e-survey using google form media and is distributed via social media (Whatsapp, Facebook, and Instagram). The knowledge and practice of the people in this statistical analysis used only univariate analysis.Results: The results show that in general the knowledge of the Indonesian people is correct from the 12 questions asked. The mean score of knowledge of male respondents was 75.13±29.47, while for women it was 77.16±26.50. The average practice score of male respondents was 81.33±19.95, while the female respondents were 87.18±16.13.Conclusion: The higher the knowledge, the better the community practices in preventing and reducing the transmission of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Pengaruh konseling menggunakan media booklet terhadap pengetahuan dan sikap pada pasien diabetes melitus
Authors: Trisda Riza , Bakri Saipul
Published: April 2021

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) or diabetes is a health disorder in the form of a collection of symptoms that arise in a person caused by an increase in blood sugar levels due to insulin deficiency or insulin resistance and metabolic disorders in general.Objective: To determine the effect of counseling with booklet media on knowledge, attitudes in type II diabetes mellitus patients at Iskandar Muda Kindergarten II HospitalMethods: This study is a Quasi Experiment with one group pre-test post-test design using total sampling. This research was conducted at Kindergarten II Iskandar Muda Hospital Banda Aceh in 2018. The descriptive univariate analysis includes frequency distribution and percentage, bivariate test with dependent t-testResults: It shows that there is a significant effect of counseling using booklet media in increasing knowledge (p= 0.000) and attitudes (p= 0.001) of diabetes mellitus patients in Iskandar Muda Kindergarten II hospital.Conclusion: Counseling using booklet media can increase knowledge and attitudes of type II diabetes mellitus patients.
Literature Review: Pendidikan kesehatan melalui diskusi kelompok dan curah pendapat terhadap pengetahuan dan sikap Pasangan Usia Subur (PUS) Akseptor KB AKDR
Authors: Nazirah Nazirah , Santy Putri , Ramli Nurlaili , Purwita Eva
Published: April 2021

Background: There has been a decrease in the number of IUD family planning acceptors in the last three years, from 3.69% in 2016 to 3% in 2017 and 2018. One factor in the low use of IUD contraceptives is public perception. The way to change people's negative perceptions about the IUD is to provide health education.Objectives: To review several journals about effect of health education about iud (intrauterine) device uses group discussion and brainstorming on the level of knowledge and attitudes fertile age couples.Methods: The study is a literature review method based on the articles searched on Google Scholar and PubMed. The keywords used to find articles were using the keywords "Health Education, IUD, Group Discussion, Brainstorming, Knowledge, and Attitudes". The data obtained were compiled, analyzed and concluded by looking for similarities, inequalities providing views, comparing and summarizing.Results: Literature review shows that there is an effect of health education with the method of group discussion and brainstorming on a person's knowledge and attitudes.Conclusion: Health education using the group discussion method has more influence on increasing knowledge and attitudes. It is hoped of the health institutions can improve health services by providing information through health education to the public about the benefits of intrauterine contraceptives (IUDs).
The Salaries of Officials and Officers in the Russian Empire
Authors: Mironov Boris N. , Surer Jan
Published: April 2021

This article analyzes changes in both the nominal and real salaries of Russian officials and officers. The study draws upon data concerning provincial administrations, which employed a significant portion of officials, and the infantry, in which most of the officer corps served, from the introduction of monetary salaries in 1763 (for officials) and in 1711 (for officers) to 1913. A table of the changes in nominal salaries was compiled from legislative and regulatory documents, and, with the use of a consumer price index constructed by the author, time series of the real salaries of officials and officers of various ranks were obtained by decades over 150 years.
Constitutional Reform and the Value of Social Citizenship
Authors: Smyth Regina , Sokhey Sarah Wilson
Published: April 2021

Viewed through the lens of social policy, Russia’s 2020 constitutional reform codifies existing priorities without addressing the issues that have fragmented the meaning of social citizenship. Placing these changes in theoretical and historical context, we identify the core causes of inequity in the social welfare system, the sustained gap between state promises, and Russians’ lived experience. Our case studies highlight the sources of shared social grievances and the obstacles to national collective action that maintain stability in the facing of increased localized protest actions. We conclude by emphasizing the importance of observing the opposing forces of continuity and change in Russian politics as they define and redefine the meaning of social citizenship.
From Constitution to Law: Implementing the 2020 Russian Constitutional Changes
Authors: Noble Ben , Petrov Nikolay
Published: April 2021

Although 4 July 2020 saw the coming into force of constitutional changes in Russia, this was far from the end of the story. Most clearly, these changes to the 1993 constitution required implementation, including through amendments to, and the writing of new pieces of, federal legislation. In part, this process was the mundane work of legal bureaucrats, tweaking and creating many pieces of legislation to reflect the new constitutional text. But the implementation process also reveals much more about the broader constitutional reform project. This article reviews the implementation process, discussing its complexity, the improvisation shown when fleshing out certain new constitutional details, its relationship with other political developments, and the chasm laid bare between Putin’s promise of the rebalancing of power in his 15 January 2020 Address to the Federal Assembly versus the reality of reform in practice.
MWF technology use to reduce environment factor impact upon stability of polymeric composite structures to transverse load effect
Authors: Zlobina Irina
Published: April 2021

The results of three-point bend comparative tests of carbon and glass-fiber samples checked and treated in the MWF electromagnetic field after external environment factor impact in the course of eight months are shown. It is defined that the modification of carbon fiber in a hardened state in the MWF electromagnetic field decreases a negative impact of external environment of strength decrease after eight-month exposure by 44.3…73%, glass-fiber – by 6%. The MWF treatment is offered as a finishing technological operation at manufacturing polymeric composite design elements.
Science intensive grinding technology ensuring life increase in machinery friction surfaces
Authors: Bishutin Sergey
Published: April 2021

A new approach to the realization of machinery friction surface finish grinding ensuring parts life increase is offered. There are shown results of experiments on working mode impact upon surface wear-resistance. A procedure for the choice and correction of friction surface finish-grinding modes taking into account wear-resistance required is presented.
Broad and dynamic neurochemical alterations in the brain of alcoholic rats
Authors: Luo Li , Min Xiao-Li , He Xiang , Shang Fei-Fei
Published: April 2021

Ethanol is the active ingredient in alcoholic beverages. As ethanol consumption increases from zero to very high, it is still unknown which metabolites are present at different times and which are essential to normal functioning. In this article, we used an intermittent-access 20% ethanol drinking paradigm to make Wistar male rats voluntarily drink large amounts of ethanol for 10, 20, 30, and 50 days, respectively. A hydrogen-1 nuclear magnetic resonance approach was used to investigate the time-dependent neurochemical metabolites spectra in the hippocampus, striatum, nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex. Multivariate pattern recognition techniques were used to analyze the hydrogen-1 nuclear magnetic resonance spectra data. Metabolic profiling was obtained, differentiating the ethanol-treated and control rats. The ethanol-affected metabolites disrupted processes associated with neurotransmitters, oxidative stress, energy metabolism and amino acids. Together, our findings demonstrate broad, dynamic, and time-dependent endogenous metabolic alterations in rats treated with ethanol.
The action of aripiprazole and brexpiprazole at the receptor level in singultus
Authors: Alefishat Eman , Aloum Lujain , Baltatu Ovidiu C , Petroianu Georg A
Published: April 2021

The hiccup (Latin singultus) is an involuntary periodic contraction of the diaphragm followed by glottic closure, which can be a rare side effect of aripiprazole. In contrast to the structurally closely related aripiprazole, brexpiprazole was not associated with this particular adverse drug reaction. Having two very similar drugs that differ in their ability to induce hiccups represents a unique opportunity to gain insight into the receptors involved in the pathophysiology of the symptom and differences in clinical effects between aripiprazole and brexpiprazole. The overlap between maneuvers used to terminate paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and those employed to terminate bouts of hiccups suggests that activation of efferent vagal fibers can be therapeutic in both instances. Recent work seems to support a pivotal role for serotonin receptors in such vagal activation. It is unlikely that a unique receptor-drug interaction could explain the different effects of the examined drugs on hiccup. The different effect is most likely the consequence of several smaller effects at more than one receptor. Brexpiprazole is a highly affine (potent) α2⁢C antagonist and, therefore, also an indirect 5-HT1⁢A agonist. In contrast, aripiprazole is a partial 5-HT1⁢A agonist (weak antagonist) and an HT3 antagonist. Activation of 5-HT1⁢A receptors enhances vagal activity while HT3 blockade reduces it. Vagus nerve activation is therapeutic for hiccups. A definitive answer continues to be elusive.
Estrogen receptor 2 mediates intraspecific aggressive behaviors of the female Cricetulus barabensis in the estrous cycle
Authors: Xu Jin-Hui , Xue Hui-Liang , Wang Zhe , Fan Chao , Wu Ming , Xu Lai-Xiang
Published: April 2021

The social behavior mechanisms have not been thoroughly reported in the solitary female striped dwarf hamster (Cricetulus barabensis). In this study, the handling bag test and neutral arena measurements were used to detect the changes of aggression in the face of rivals of different genders of wild striped dwarf hamsters. We found that female hamsters had the highest aggressive performance in proestrus, followed by estrus, and the lowest in metestrus and the dioestrus, and the increased aggression during the proestrus or estrus period was low-intensity aggression such as intimidation, shock, boxing and counterattack, or even ritualized non-harmful behaviors to drive away opponents. When confronted with male individuals, aggression in females decreased significantly during estrus. The concentration of plasma estradiol was the highest in estrus and the lowest in metestrus and dioestrus. In contrast, estrogen receptor 2 relative expression in the hypothalamus is the lowest in proestrus and highest in metestrus and dioestrus. Besides, both estradiol levels in plasma and estrogen receptor 2 mRNA in the hypothalamus were associated with aggression. These results will broaden our understanding of the molecular mechanism of how breeding phenotype is an essential driver in changing the social behavior of female Cricetulus barabensis.
The emerging role of non-coding RNAs from extracellular vesicles in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Xu Yu-Zhong , Cheng Ming-Gang , Wang Xiong , Hu Yu
Published: April 2021

Alzheimer’s disease is an age-dependent neurodegenerative disease. Recently, different non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, have been found to contribute to Alzheimer’s disease’s pathogenesis. Extracellular vehicles could be enriched in ncRNAs and in their role in mediating intercellular communication. Signatures of extracellular vesicular ncRNAs have shown them to be a potential biomarker in Alzheimer’s disease. This perspective discusses the potential role of extracellular vehicle ncRNAs in Alzheimer’s disease, providing a theoretical basis for extracellular vesicular ncRNAs in Alzheimer’s disease, from pathogenesis to diagnosis and treatment.
Sudden cardiac death: epidemiology, pathogenesis and management
Authors: Kumar Akshay , Avishay Dor Mordehay , Jones Calvin Richard , Shaikh Juber Dastagir , Kaur Roopvir , Aljadah Michael , Kichloo Asim , Shiwalkar Nimisha , Keshavamurthy Suresh
Published: April 2021

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is an unexpected sudden death due to a heart condition, that occurs within one hour of symptoms onset. SCD is a leading cause of death in western countries, and is responsible for the majority of deaths from cardiovascular disease. Moreover, SCD accounts for mortality in approximately half of all coronary heart disease patients. Nevertheless, the recent advancements made in screening, prevention, treatment, and management of the underlying causes has decreased this number. In this article, we sought to review established and new modes of screening patients at risk for SCD, treatment and prevention of SCD, and the role of new technologies in the field. Further, we delineate the current epidemiologic trends and pathogenesis. In particular, we describe the advancement in molecular autopsy and genetic testing, the role of target temperature management, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and transvenous and subcutaneous implantable cardioverter devices (ICDs).
TRPC5 in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Du Sheng-Li , Jia Zeng-Qin , Zhong Jiu-Chang , Wang Le-Feng
Published: April 2021

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), especially acute myocardial infarction, are the leading cause of death, morbidity and disability across the world, affecting millions of people each year. Atherosclerosis (AS) is the major cause of CVD, and is a chronic inflammation involving different cell types and various molecular mechanisms. Ca2+ dynamics of endothelial cells (ECs) and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) exert a significant influence on many aspects of CVD. Transient receptor potential channel 5 (TRPC5) is a member of the transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, which consists of a large number of nonselective cation channels with variable degrees of Ca2+-permeability. As a Ca2+-permeable cation channel, Human TRPC5 is expressed in a number of cell types, including ECs and muscle cells, as well as lungs and kidneys. TRPC5 is involved in renal, tumorous, neuronal and vascular diseases. In recent years, the roles of TRPC5 in CVD have been widely implicated in various disorders, such as AS, cardiac hypertrophy and blood pressure regulation. The TRPC5 mechanism of action may be associated with regulation of calcium homeostasis, oxidative stress and apoptosis. In this review, we highlight the significant roles of TRPC5 in the heart, and evaluate the potential of therapeutics targets which block TRPC5 for the treatment of CVD and related diseases.
Transcatheter mitral valve repair with MitraClip in patients with pulmonary hypertension: hemodynamic and prognostic perspectives
Authors: Mandurino-Mirizzi Alessandro , Tua Lorenzo , Arzuffi Luca , Demarchi Andrea , Somaschini Alberto , Tournas Georgios , Crimi Gabriele , Androulakis Emmanuel , Briasoulis Alexandros , Cornara Stefano
Published: April 2021

Transcatheter mitral valve repair with MitraClip has emerged as a possible therapeutic option for patients with severe mitral regurgitation (MR) with high risk for surgical valve repair. MitraClip intervention has demonstrated to improve haemodynamics and clinical outcomes in selected patients in observational and randomized studies. Preoperative pulmonary hypertension (PH) is known to affect prognosis in patients undergoing surgical mitral valve intervention. The aim of the present review is to discuss the available literature focused on the haemodynamic and clinical effects of MitraClip in patients with severe MR and PH.
Impact of mechanical circulatory support on donor heart allocation: past, present, and future
Authors: Tatum Robert T. , Massey H. Todd , Tchantchaleishvili Vakhtang
Published: April 2021

The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) recently revised its heart allocation policy to address numerous shortcomings of the previous system. Implemented in 2018, the changes sought to reduce waiting list mortality, clearly define urgency status based on objective physiologic variables, decrease exemption requests, and introduce geographic modifications to ensure organ distribution favors the highest urgency candidates. In large part, UNOS policy revisions were driven by the growing use of continuous flow left ventricular assist devices (CF-LVADs) and the relevant device complications that led to an unacceptably high number of status exemptions. The new 6-tiered system assigns a comparatively lower urgency status to patients supported on CF-LVADs and higher urgency to patients supported on short-term mechanical circulatory assist (MCA) such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) counterpulsation. LVAD use as bridge to transplant (BTT) therapy increased steadily throughout the preceding decade due to technological improvements and increased physician familiarity, but the recent policy changes introduce incentives for physicians to withhold this life-saving therapy in order to achieve higher urgency status for their patients. This paper will explore the technological evolution of MCA and the pertinent clinical trials that have led to their FDA approval as BTT and destination therapy. A review of the inception and development of the donor allocation system will be provided before examining available post-policy outcome data. Finally, we will highlight successes and shortcomings of the implemented changes before commenting on areas to potentially expand upon the existing policy.
Sildenafil-triggered multi-culprit ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: a case report
Authors: Yoon Byung Woo , Hong Ji Yeon
Published: April 2021

Sildenafil citrate and its generic forms are widely used to treat erectile dysfunction worldwide. Sildenafil citrate associated myocardial infarction is rarely reported in patients with no previous coronary artery disease. Herein, we present a case of a 40-year-old man with no cardiovascular risk factors other than heavy smoking and heavy drinking with no known previous ischemic symptoms, who had an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction after receiving sildenafil citrate. From this case report, we emphasize that as sildenafil is increasingly being used as a recreational drug as it is widely available without a physician’s prescription, physicians should be aware that it may reveal the underlying cardiovascular problem. Thus, physicians must also consider the underlying medical conditions when prescribing sildenafil.