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Introduction: Armenia's and Georgia's high rates of smoking and secondhand smoke and recent implementation of smoke-free laws provide a timely opportunity to examine factors that increase compliance, like social enforcement and support for governmental enforcement. Methods: Using 2022 data from 1,468 Armenian and Georgian adults (Mage=42.92, 48.6% male, 31.6% past-month smoking), multilevel linear regression examined tobacco-related media exposures, social exposures, and perceptions/attitudes in relation to: 1) likelihood of asking someone to extinguish cigarettes where a) prohibited and b) allowed; and 2) support of fines for smoke-free violations (1=not at all to 4=very). Results: There was low average likelihood of asking someone to extinguish cigarettes where allowed (M=1.01, SD=1.12) or prohibited (M=1.57, SD=1.21) and "little" agreement with fines for smoke-free violations (M=2.13, SD=1.06). Having fewer friends who smoked, greater support for indoor smoke-free laws, and no past-month cigarette use were positively associated with all 3 outcomes. Greater exposure to media and community-based action supporting smoke-free policies, and witnessing more requests to stop smoking where prohibited were associated with higher likelihood of asking someone to extinguish cigarettes where allowed or prohibited. Less exposure to news stories opposing smoke-free policies and cigarette ads and higher perceived harm of cigarettes were also related to higher likelihood of asking someone to stop smoking where prohibited. Higher perceived harm of cigarettes was also associated with greater agreement with fines for smoke-free violations. Conclusions: Comprehensive strategies targeting social norms, media exposure, and risk perceptions are needed to effectively facilitate strategies to enhance smoke-free law enforcement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is categorized by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) as a notifiable disease that has a negative economic impact on the agricultural industry. To control this disease, homologous vaccines based on a live attenuated LSD virus and/or heterologous vaccines based on the sheep and goatpox viruses are used. We have previously reported that a sheeppox vaccine is safe in cattle and does not induce viremia or clinical symptoms, which can occur with homologous vaccines. Our initial studies with a sheeppox vaccine in cattle identified an 86% population immunity at 30 days, but information on the duration of immunity, to confirm the utility of yearly vaccination, was lacking. We have identified that immunity wanes rapidly in young cattle after receiving a sheep pox vaccine, which suggests they should receive a booster vaccination 4–6 months after their first vaccination, followed by yearly boosters using a sheep pox-based vaccine. The transmission of lumpy skin disease (LSD) occurs through ticks, mosquitoes, and flies. The most effective way to combat LSD is to conduct large-scale vaccination, covering the entire cattle population with safe and effective vaccines, while introducing restrictions on the movement of livestock. The first and only LSD cases that occurred in Armenia happened in 2015,and they were controlled with the use of a once yearly heterologous sheep pox vaccine for cattle in high-risk areas. We have previously reported on the safety and immunogenicity of this vaccine in cattle, but information on the duration of immunity is lacking. Our aim was to determine the duration of immunity to the LSD virus (LSDV) in cattle when utilizing a heterologous sheep pox vaccine. We have evaluated antibodies in cattle blood prior to and post-vaccination (1, 6, and 11 months). We have utilized an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to follow the development and waning of LSDV antibodies in vaccinated cattle in two age groups: 1) young unvaccinated cattle ≤12 months of age and 2) adult cattle that had previously been vaccinated. Our results were consistent with our previous study in Armenia, showing a high level of population immunity, 80.0–83.3%, in both age groups at 1 month, with a significant (p = 0.001) drop for young cattle at 6 months. Previously vaccinated adult cattle showed a longer duration of immunity at 11 months for this heterologous sheep pox vaccine. Based on these data, we advise that young cattle receive an additional booster vaccination 4–6 months after their first vaccination, and then yearly vaccinations in high-risk areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local coalitions can advance public health initiative but have not been widely used or well-studied in low- and middle-income countries. This paper provides (i) an overview of an ongoing matched-pairs community-randomized controlled trial in 28 communities in Armenia and Georgia (N = 14/country) testing local coalitions to promote smoke-free policies/enforcement and (ii) characteristics of the communities involved. In July-August 2018, key informants (e.g. local public health center directors) were surveyed to compare their non-communicable disease (NCD) and tobacco-related activities across countries and across condition (intervention/control). More than half of the informants (50.0-57.1%) reported their communities had programs addressing hypertension, diabetes, cancer and human papilloma virus, with 85.7% involving community education and 32.1% patient education programs. Eleven communities (39.3%) addressed tobacco control, all of which were in Georgia. Of those, all included public/community education and the majority (72.7-81.8%) provided cessation counseling/classes, school/youth prevention programs, healthcare provider training or activities addressing smoke-free environments. Informants in Georgia versus Armenia perceived greater support for tobacco control from various sectors (e.g. government, community). No differences were found by condition assignment. This paper provides a foundation for presenting subsequent analyses of this ongoing trial. These analyses indicate wide variability regarding NCD-related activities and support across communities and countries.

Community coalitions depend on their members to synergistically pool diverse resources, including knowledge and expertise, community connections and varied perspectives, to identify and implement strategies and make progress toward community health improvement. Several coalition theories suggest synergy is the key mechanism driving coalition effectiveness. The Community Coalition Action Theory (CCAT) asserts that synergy depends on how well coalitions engage their members and leverage their resources, which is influenced by coalition processes, member participation and satisfaction and benefits outweighing costs. The current study used mixed methods, including coalition member surveys (n  = 83) and semi-structured interviews with leaders and members (n  = 42), to examine the process of creating collaborative synergy in 14 community coalitions for smoke-free environments in Armenia and Georgia. Members, typically seven per coalition representing education, public health, health care and municipal administration sectors, spent an average of 16 hr/month on coalition-related work. Common benefits included making the community a better place to live and learning more about tobacco control. The greatest cost was attending meetings or events at inconvenient times. Members contributed various resources, including their connections and influence, skills and expertise and access to population groups and settings. Strong coalition processes, greater benefits and fewer costs of participation and satisfaction were correlated with leveraging of member resources, which in turn, was highly correlated with collaborative synergy. Consistent with CCAT, effective coalition processes created a positive climate where membership benefits outweighed costs, and members contributed their resources in a way that created collaborative synergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Annually, approximately 200 new ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed in Armenia, which is considered an upper-middle-income country. This study aimed to summarize the survival outcomes of patients with relapsed ovarian cancer in Armenia based on the type of recurrence, risk factors, and choice of systemic treatment. Methods: This retrospective case-control study included 228 patients with relapsed ovarian cancer from three different institutions. Results: The median age of the patients was 55. The median follow-up times from relapse and primary diagnosis were 21 and 48 months, respectively. The incidence of platinum-sensitive relapse was 81.6% (186), while platinum-resistant relapse was observed in only 18.4% (42) of patients. The median post-progression survival of the platinum-sensitive group compared to the platinum-resistant group was 54 vs. 25 months (p < 0.001), respectively, while the median survival after relapse was 25 vs. 13 months, respectively; three- and five-year post-progression survival rates in these groups were 31.2% vs. 23.8%, and 15.1% vs. 9.5%, respectively (p = 0.113). Conclusions: Overall, despite new therapeutic approaches, ovarian cancer continues to be one of the deadly malignant diseases affecting women, especially in developing countries with a lack of resources, where chemotherapy remains the primary available systemic treatment for the majority of patients. Low survival rates demonstrate the urgent need for more research focused on this group of patients with poor outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the most common solid malignancies in children worldwide, including in Armenia. The current study aims to analyze epidemiological data, treatment, and outcomes of children and young adults (≤25 years) with CNS tumors in Armenia during the last 26 years. Methods: We collected data from pediatric and young adult patients treated in selected sites in Armenia from 1st January 1995 to 31st December 2020. Incidence by sex, age at diagnosis, time from first complaints to diagnosis, histopathology results, treatment strategies, complications, and overall survival (OS) rates were calculated. Results: The multicenter data analysis revealed 149 patients with diagnosed primary CNS tumors over 26 years. Among them, 84 (56.4%) were male. The median age at diagnosis was 7 years (range, 3 months to 25 years), and the median time from the first complaints to diagnosis was 2 months (range, 1 week to 70 months). Medulloblastomas and other embryonal tumors (47), low-grade gliomas (32), and high-grade gliomas (22) were the most commonly diagnosed malignancies. Ependymomas, craniopharyngiomas, germ cell tumors, and other malignancies were observed in 22 patients. For 26 patients, no histopathological or radiological diagnosis was available. Follow-up information was available for 98 (65.8%) patients. The 5-year OS rate for the whole study group was 67.7%. Conclusion: Consistent with international data, embryonal tumors, and gliomas were the most commonly diagnosed CNS malignancies in Armenia. Multimodal treatment was often not available in Armenia during the study period, especially for early cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shortly after the establishment of African swine fever virus (ASFV) genotype II in 2007, cases of acute fatal infection were observed. However, after several years of circulation in the Eurasian region, the clinical signs of the disease changed. Currently, this disease can occur acutely, subclinically, chronically, or asymptomatically. Cases of the complete recovery of infected pigs, and the disappearance of ASFV from their tissues and secretions have been described. This form of the disease first appeared in Armenia at the end of 2011. This virus was described and identified as the Dilijan2011IMB strain. The goal of our research was to study the main features of clinical, pathological, immunological, virological, and genetic parameters involved in the development of new forms of African swine fever (ASF). Chronic ASF was characterized with low titers of the virus and a decrease in the intensity of hemadsorption. Additionally, a reduced intensity in clinical symptoms and pathoanatomical results was noted. The absolute, but not the relative number of immune cells changes; the neutropenia (in bone marrow and spleen), lymphopenia (in bone marrow), lymphocytosis (only in spleen), lymphoid cell depletion (in bone marrow), and pancytopenia (in bone marrow) observed in the chronic form of ASF were less pronounced compared to in the acute form. When comparing the late stage of chronic ASF to the acute form, the key cytological indicators in the spleen, lymph nodes, and blood were less severe in the chronic stage. Bone marrow failure in the chronic form, expressed in a pronounced decrease in all cell types, generally coincided with the data in the acute form of ASF. The same data were obtained after assessing serum TNF-alpha levels. Thus, we can conclude that the chronic form of ASF occurs due to a less pronounced immune response, as well as a decrease in virus titers in the blood and tissues of infected pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a high impact viral disease of livestock for which vaccines are extensively used for limiting the spread of infection. Armenia shares a border with both Turkey and Iran where FMD is endemic, making vaccination an important component of Armenia's control strategy. Additionally, Armenian veterinary services utilize both passive and active monitoring for prevention control. Methods: We sought to determine the immune status of animals vaccinated against FMD and to evaluate the effectiveness of our vaccination policy in Armenia. This was conducted in three regions including Shirak, Armavir, and Ararat Region which are located in the buffer zones that border Turkey and Iran. Through active monitoring in 2020, we studied blood serum samples from cattle and sheep using an enzyme immunoassay to determine the level of immune animals in these regions following the use of a polyvalent inactivated vaccine containing FMDV serotypes A, O, and Asia-1 that are relevant for this region. ELISA titers were assessed at 28, 90, and 180 days after vaccination in cattle of three age groups at the time of initial vaccination: 4–6 months, 6–18 months and ≥ 24 months of age with sheep of all ages. Results: The 3 age groups of cattle had similarly high levels of immunity with over 90% of the cattle showing a ≥ 50% protective titer 28 days after the first vaccination. By day 90, titers in cattle from the initial 4–18-month age groups dropped below 58% across the 3 serotypes and at or below 80% for the oldest cattle ≥ 24 months. Re-vaccination of cattle at 120 days did improve protective titers but never reached the level of immunity of the first vaccination. Sheep showed a similar rapid drop to less than 50% having a ≥ 50% protective titer at 90 days emphasizing the need for continual revaccination. Conclusions: The results of this study have important implications for the current FMD vaccine policy in Armenia and improves our understanding of the rapid loss of protective titers over short periods. Since small ruminants are only vaccinated once per year and vaccination titers drop rapidly by 90 days suggests that they are vulnerable to FMD and that vaccination protocols need to be updated. Cattle should continue to be vaccinated every 3–6 months depending on their age to maintain a protective level of antibodies to protect them from FMD. More studies are needed to understand the possible role of small ruminants in the epidemiology of FMD and to evaluate revaccination at shorter intervals. These results show the concerns of rapid loss of protection to both cattle and small ruminants following 1 or more doses of commercial vaccines and that additional vaccines need to be evaluated in both groups to know how often they must be vaccinated to provide full protection. The addition of challenge studies should also be considered to better understand the level of protection as measured by serology and how it relates to protection from challenge. These results should be considered by anyone using these vaccines in cattle and sheep at longer than 3 month intervals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Arab Journal of Plant Protection is the property of Arab Society for Plant Protection and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of the research is to reveal the biological removal, balance and coefficient rates of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium use from soil, organo-mineral fertilizers and microbiological concentrates by tomato and sweet pepper in the conditions of Ararat Plain of Armenia. Field experiments were carried out in 2017-2019, on typical irrigated meadow brown soils in triplicate. It has been established that at tomato yields of 50-75 t ha-1, the biological removal of nitrogen ranges from 110 (without fertilizers) to 178 kg ha-1 (N150P80), P2O5: 61-89, K2O5: 166-289 kg ha-1, and at pepper yields of 23-32 t ha-1, respectively - 55-76, 38-49 and 77-106 kg ha-1. Tomato utilization rates from the soil (unfertilized version) are: N: 118, P2O5: 37, K2O: 8%, and the negative balances are respectively: 107, 67 and 109 kg ha-1, similar data for pepper were recorded at: N: 59, P2O5: 23, K2O: 4% and 52, 44, 20 kg ha-1. From fertilizers, tomato absorbs 27-45% nitrogen, 11-48% P2O5 and 48-72% K2O with negative balances (N: 15-55, P2O5: 14-76, K2O: 34-79 kg ha-1), in poultry litter the balance P2O5 = + 94.2 kg ha-1. For pepper, however, these data were respectively amounted to: N: 6-14, P2O5: 10-15, K2O: 9-20%, and the balances were positive. Microbiological concentrates (Azoto + phosphate Barvar) showed poor effectiveness as compared to organo-mineral fertilizers. It was also found that the lower the amount of a mobile element in the soil, or in the fertilizer dose, the higher its utilization rate and vice versa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION Since March 2022, Armenia introduced a comprehensive smoking ban on all types of tobacco products in indoor and outdoor areas of hospitality venues. We aimed to rapidly appraise the implementation of the ban in the dining areas of the capital Yerevan and explore any differences in compliance and enforcement patterns between indoor and outdoor areas of the venues. METHODS We used a mixed-methods approach through quantitative air quality monitoring, qualitative observations, and in-depth interviews (IDIs). We visited one venue in each remote district of the city and more venues from the central districts that have a much higher density of dining areas. Overall, we made 24 measurements of PM2.5 particles, 24 unobtrusive observations in the 19 visited venues, and 11 IDIs with six visitors and five workers. We used Stata13 for the analysis of numerical data and completed direct deductive content analysis of the textual data. RESULTS Active tobacco use was observed in 12 out of 24 venues (50.0%) with more cases of smoking in outdoor areas (10 out of 12; 83.3%). No warning by workers or no reports to the police were observed. We detected elevated levels of PM2.5 particles in indoor and outdoor areas. The IDIs revealed predominantly negative attitudes towards the outdoor ban and the lack of awareness of and readiness to engage in the enforcement measures. The lack of enforcement by the owners and the respective bodies was mentioned as a contributor to continued violations of the ban. The change in the dynamic and the characteristics of the visitors, cleaner air, and less unpleasant work were mentioned as important positive aftermaths of the ban. CONCLUSIONS The Government of Armenia should enhance the monitoring and enforcement activities and organize tailored awareness-raising campaigns to inform the general public and the hospitality industry of the health and social implications of the ban. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nearly 122 scientific journals are currently being published in Armenia—of which only six are indexed by WoS and/or Scopus databases. The majority of the national journals are published in the Armenian language, solely possessing abstracts written in English, although there are also English-language and multi-language journals with articles not only in Armenian but also in other foreign languages. The aim of this article is to study the visibility of the (non-indexed) national Armenian journals in the WoS database through citation analysis. In consideration of the existence of a relevant Armenian "diaspora" in the world, this article also attempts to estimate its impact in terms of citation statistics. For this end, we have identified citations to the national/domestic Armenian journals in the WoS database in comparison with the share of citations received from "diaspora" researchers (researchers of Armenian origin born in foreign countries and those originally from Armenia who have emigrated to foreign countries). Among the 116 Armenian domestic journals analyzed (not indexed by WoS), only 47 were found to be cited in WoS. Of these journals, almost 12% are citations by "diaspora" researchers, most of which concern Social Science and Humanities journals. Although the surnames of Armenians end with -i(y)an, sometimes, the Diaspora Armenians, surnames are changed or modified or they are not ending with -i(y)an, in this case we may fail to identify them. This study can help to build new, more deep and comprehensive relations with scientific diasporas. This study offers a new understanding of multifaced research collaboration with scientific diasporas and their role in internationalization of domestic journals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is an economically important viral disease of cattle caused by the lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) of the Poxviridae family. It was first reported in Armenia in 2015 when the disease was rapidly identified with no further spread from the initial outbreak. This was followed by a vaccination campaign to help keep the disease from returning. Vaccination can be a powerful tool for preventing the spread of transboundary diseases, but there is currently no single vaccine that protects cattle from all strains of LSD, with many vaccines providing various results. We sought to assess the quality of vaccination currently used in Armenia by evaluating the antibody response of a dry culture sheep pox virus-based vaccine against LSD in cattle. Cattle were able to produce protective antibodies >80%, which should protect against lumpy skin disease, based on previous observations, but suggests more work is needed. We have also observed no adverse side-effects in cattle following vaccination. In an area that is not suffering from continuous outbreaks, we suggest this vaccine could be a safe alternative for protection from LSD in cattle. Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a highly infectious viral disease of cattle caused by LSD virus (LSDV), which was first reported in Armenia in late 2015. It was identified in pasture-raised cattle near the border with Iran. Currently, vaccination plays a key role in preventing further incursion of disease in high-risk areas. The purpose of this work was to assess the quality of vaccination currently used in Armenia by determining the immune response of the heterologous dry culture sheep pox virus-based vaccine against LSD in cattle. Seroprevalence and seroconversion testing was carried out using an ELISA to detect specific antibodies against LSD before and 30 days after vaccination in three adjacent regions of Armenia (Ararat, Armavir, Gegharkunik). Ixodes ticks were also examined for the presence of LSDV via real-time PCR. We found that the heterologous vaccine used in Armenia creates a high level of population immunity of 86.09% (83.83–87.97%) and no adverse side effects were observed in cattle. Of the 6 types of Ixodes ticks identified and tested, we found no evidence of LSDV circulating in these vectors. These results suggest that regular serological monitoring via ELISA and heterologous vaccination should continue in areas of Armenia at high risk for incursion of LSD to reduce the spread of this highly infectious transboundary disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article serves to describe the medical education system of Armenia, a country located in the cross-section of Europe and Asia. Similar to other countries in the region, its medical education system is structured into undergraduate (6 years), postgraduate (1–4 years), and continuing education components. Its largest medical university, Yerevan State Medical University (YSMU), is the predominant institute for medical education and has enrollment of not only Armenian citizens, but also international students from India, Iran, Russia, and other countries. According to publication metrics, research activity at YSMU is increasing. Finally, the unique relationship between the country and its global diaspora has facilitated collaborative efforts in not only medical education, but also the delivery of care and capacity building. Significant challenges remain for each stage of medical education, such as the lack of standardized licensing or board examinations and oversight of the number of resident physicians per specialty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of sulfur anhydride sorption from roasted molybdenum concentrate gaseous wastes by modified natural zeolites has been studied. Clinoptilolite from Nor Koghb deposit (Noyemberyan, Armenia) has been used as natural zeolite. The modification of zeolite has been done by thermic, acidic and alkaline treatments. It has been established that both thermally and chemically modified zeolites of Nor Koghb deposit are effective sorbents for sorption of sulfur anhydride; moreover, it is determined that the alkaline modified samples of zeolite have the highest sorption ability. Sulfur anhydride has been produced by the three following sources: pure molybdenum disulfate, non-treated molybdenum concentrate from Zangezur Copper Molybdenum Combine (.Armenia) and the same molybdenum concentrate after thermal treatment. The highest effectiveness of sulfur anhydride sorption is obtained when pure molybdenum disulfide is used as a sulfur anhydride source This result is quite predictable because pure molybdenum disulfide practically all turns to sulfur anhydride while additives are present in molybdenum concentrate, which do not produce sulfur anhydride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective models for aligning public health and civil society at the local level have the potential to impact various global health issues, including tobacco. Georgia and Armenia Teams for Healthy Environments and Research (GATHER) is a collaboration between Armenia, Georgia and U.S. researchers involving a community randomized trial testing the impact of community coalitions to promote smoke-free policy adoption and compliance in various settings. Community Coalition Action Theory (CCAT) was used to guide and describe coalition formation, implementation and effectiveness. Mixed methods were used to evaluate 14 municipality-based coalitions in Georgia and Armenia, including semi-structured interviews (n = 42) with coalition leaders and active members, coalition member surveys at two timepoints (n = 85 and n = 83), and review of action plans and progress reports. Results indicated successful creation of 14 multi-sectoral coalitions, most commonly representing education, public health, health care, and municipal administration. Half of the coalitions created at least one smoke-free policy in specific settings (e.g., factories, parks), and all 14 promoted compliance with existing policies through no-smoking signage and stickers. The majority also conducted awareness events in school, health care, and community settings, in addition to educating the public about COVID and the dangers of tobacco use. Consistent with CCAT, coalition processes (e.g., communication) were associated with member engagement and collaborative synergy which, in turn, correlated with perceived community impact, skills gained by coalition members, and interest in sustainability. Findings suggest that community coalitions can be formed in varied sociopolitical contexts and facilitate locally-driven, multi-sectoral collaborations to promote health. Despite major contextual challenges (e.g., national legislation, global pandemic, war), coalitions were resilient, nimble and remained active. Additionally, CCAT propositions appear to be generalizable, suggesting that coalition-building guidance may be relevant for local public health in at least some global contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since ancient times, Armenians have used wild plants in their diet in both fresh and processed forms. Their gastronomic traditions, knowledge about useful plants, and methods of their application have been passed from generation to generation. In this review we analyse the species composition of plants that are used as spices in the national cuisine, how many there are, and what prospects there are for their use. Field surveys were conducted to collect ethnobotanical data of the use of aromatic plants in all of regions in Armenia during the years 2016–2022. 58 informants (42 women and 16 men) were interviewed after obtaining their prior informed oral consent. The informants included farmers, housewives and cooks engaged in preparing the national cuisine. All the informants participated voluntarily and shared their life experience, knowledge received from grandmothers and their professional skills. For the first time, a list of spicy plants of the flora of Armenia which were used in the preparation of national dishes is presented. Some species are no longer used, because classic spices are already available for sale, but some species of plants are still used today as a seasoning in national dishes. In the flora of Armenia there are 142 species of spicy aromatic plants belonging to 115 genera and 46 families. Studies have shown that the largest number of spicy-aromatic plants grow in Central and Southern Armenia (Armeno-Iranian floral province). On the basis of this rich plant resource, it is possible to organize the cultivation of organic spicy plants and spices in order to use them in various branches of the food industry. The recollected knowledge of our ancestors in the area of cheesemaking, winemaking, beermaking, combining centuries of experience with today's new technologies and use of spice plants can be used to develop the country's economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia. Mechanics is the property of National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The ongoing feminist struggle in post‐Soviet Armenia to imagine a world without patriarchal social arrangements, militarization, and capitalism is multidirectional, involving intimate relations at home, with fellow leftists, and in public political life. Instead of divesting from afforded systemic privileges, both material and representational, leftist men often extend patriarchal power relations to their political work, creating what I call civic patriarchy, an extension of patriarchal power relations leftist men‐comrades practice within feminine‐designated civic work. To the extent that leftist men are invested in patriarchal sociopolitical arrangements, they remain in stronger solidarity with those upholding the existing social order than with their leftist feminist comrades committed to upending it. Drawing on a collaborative project on leftist activism in Armenia today, I examine the work feminists do on the political left to resist their erasure as political actors and to orient the political consciousness of their leftist men‐comrades away from civic patriarchy and toward a more equitable collective life. I argue that a nonhierarchical politics of cultivating relationality that not only sustains our embodied lives in all their materiality but also attunes us to each other with collective life‐sustaining care is key to building broad feminist coalitions across differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of the seven-year study on the state of arable lands and wastewaters in the districts of mining enterprises in Armenia. An assessment of the ecological and toxicological state of wastewaters and contaminated areas was carried out. Methods for their purification are proposed aimed at their further use and obtainment of environmentally safe agricultural products. An area of about 0.5 ha, next to the rural community of Syunik in southern Armenia, has been polluted for many years by mining sludges from the nearest mine watertight cofferdam of the Zangezur copper-molybdenum combine. Activities have been carried out to clean up the soil in this area. After plowing, soil improvers (zeolite, bentonite, and manure) were introduced into the soil. On-site treatments, soil tillage, and the introduction of soil improvers into the soil was implemented in late autumn. Soil and plant samples were taken to determine the content of heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Pb, Co, Mo, Ni). In the following spring, the area was planted with potatoes, eggplant, and peas. A rather high yield was obtained. Analysis of plant samples showed that the content of heavy metals does not exceed the permissible level of the international food safety standard. At the same time, soil studies were carried out in the adjacent areas of the Sotk mine, located to the southeast of Lake Sevan. It was revealed that due to the increase in the volume of the mining industry and the amount of rock dumps, the organoleptic and chemical indicators of the waters of the Sotk and Masrik rivers deteriorated. Compared to the previous decade, the amounts of suspended particles per 1 L of water have increased by 210...317.0%, in the waters of Sotk—by 32.1 mg/L, and in the waters of Masrik—by 13.2 mg/L. The same tendency is observed regarding the amounts of nitrates, sulfates, and hydrogen index, which is mainly due to the chemical composition of rocks. They contain a large amount of Ca, K, Na, Mg, etc. This trend is especially noticeable along the rivers, where intensive agriculture, primarily livestock farming is carried out. The material of the work solves a complex of environmental and economic problems. It is aimed at ensuring environmental safety, improving the ecological and resource properties of soils, increasing the productivity of cultural phytocenoses and the sanitary and hygienic quality of food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial activity of aqueous, acetone, methanol, and ethanol extracts of saxicolous lichen Lecanora muralis sampled from Odzun, Lori province of Armenia were studied. Aqueous extract was not demonstrated any significant antibacterial activity neither Gram positive nor Gram negative bacteria. All other extracts exhibited antimicrobial activity only against only tested Grampositive bacteria. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of acetone extract was 57 μg/μl against Bacillus subtilis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this audio-textual performance woven as an Armenian fairy tale from ethnographic research, poetry, and songs, I employ the performative as part of a feminist aesthetic and pedagogical praxis. Through this feminist performative storytelling I affectively study and mourn the immobilizing effects of the densely interconnected processes of death-making whether it be through colonization, ecological extraction, militarization and war, or sex-selective abortions. Drawing on transnational feminist knowledge, I suture life-sustaining moments of respite and healing, however transient and quick, into this protracted study and mourning to practice living in the wake of ongoing catastrophes and crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Armenia. Over the past two decades, the country has seen a significant rise in cancer morbidity and mortality. This review aims to provide up-to-date info about the state of cancer control in Armenia and identify priority areas of research. The paper analyzes published literature and local and international statistical reports on Armenia and similar countries to put numbers into context. While cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment are improving, the prevalence of risk factors is still quite high and smoking is widespread. Early detection rates are low and several important screening programs are absent. Diagnosis and treatment methods are not standardized; there is a lack of treatment accessibility due to insufficient government coverage and limited availability of essential medicines. Overall, there is room for improvement in this sector, as research is limited and multidisciplinary approaches to the topic are rare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 provides essential information on viral evolution, transmission, and epidemiology. In this paper, we performed the whole-genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 using nanopore and Illumina sequencing to describe the circulation of the virus lineages in Armenia. The analysis of 145 full genomes identified six clades (19A, 20A, 20B, 20I, 21J, and 21K) and considerable intra-clade PANGO lineage diversity. Phylodynamic and transmission analysis allowed to attribute specific clades as well as infer their importation routes. Thus, the first two waves of positive case increase were caused by the 20B clade, the third peak caused by the 20I (Alpha), while the last two peaks were caused by the 21J (Delta) and 21K (Omicron) variants. The functional analyses of mutations in sequences largely affected epitopes associated with protective HLA loci and did not cause the loss of the signal in PCR tests targeting ORF1ab and N genes as confirmed by RT-PCR. We also compared the performance of nanopore and Illumina short-read sequencing and showed the utility of nanopore sequencing as an efficient and affordable alternative for large-scale molecular epidemiology research. Thus, our paper describes new data on the genomic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 variants in Armenia in the global context of the virus molecular genomic surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hearing has a great importance for normal speech development and social integration of a child. Hearing disorders in children can be acquired during early childhood and may stay unnoticed by parents and teachers. Neonatal screening system was introduced in Armenia in December 2007. In the policlinics of the Republic of Armenia, all children get ENT consultation at the age of six, however no hearing screening is conducted. The goal of this research was to detect hearing loss among the preschool and school age children using a screening program. A total of 3560 children were included in this study. The pure tone audiometry with signal of 25 dB of air conduction at frequency rates of 500, 1000, 2000, 4000 and 8000 Hz has been used for screening. The 5.2% of examined children (185 children) did not pass the screening, and were sent to specialized clinics for further work up. The results of further work up in those 185 showed that 109 of them (3.06% of total number) had been diagnosed with different otic diseases and disorders. In this group, 7 children were diagnosed with uni- or bilateral sensorineural hearing loss; at the same time neither the parents nor the children were aware of the disease. The large-scale screening held for the first time among preschool and school age children in Armenia. It results showed, that this group is key in terms of early identification of hearing loss and prevention of subsequent complications to ensure and improve the health of the younger generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 left many ex-republics in a financial and administrative crisis for the ensuing two decades. Previously centralised processes like recertification of doctors and healthcare workers and continuing medical education fell by the wayside. Continuing medical education and continuing professional development in Armenia have evolved through multiple phases from Soviet, to immediate, mid and late-transitional post-Soviet periods, to current modernising efforts. This manuscript describes the phases of evolution of continuing medical education chronologically and details the legislative and regulatory framework surrounding each stage of development. Armenia is currently implementing a credit system of continuing medical education with the aim to introduce and adopt new and efficient approaches in this field. Continuing education credits fall into three categories: didactic or theoretical knowledge, practical skills and self-education/self-development. To recertify, professionals must collect credits from all three groups with specified minimum amounts according to their degrees. Armenia's guiding principle is to harmonise the continuing medical education and professional development model with internationally accepted criteria in order to contribute to the international mobility of healthcare workers and to provide for true on-going professional development and knowledge that will benefit our doctors, nurses and above all our patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to wide range of secondary metabolites, lichens were used from antiquity as sources of colorants, perfumes and medicaments. This research focuses on exploring the antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of methanol, ethanol, acetone extracts and aqueous infusions of corticolous lichens sampled from Armenia. Methanol, ethanol and acetone extracts from all tested lichens were active against Gram-positive bacterial strains. The most effective solvent to retrieve antimicrobial compounds was methanol. Aqueous infusions of tested lichens didn't show any significant antibacterial and antifungal activity. The highest antimicrobial activity was observed for methanol extract of Ramalina sinensis. The minimum inhibitory concentration of methanol extract of Ramalina sinensis were 0.9–1.8 mg mL− 1. Pseudevernia furfuracea demonstrated antifungal activity (Ø 12 mm). Methanol extract of Parmelia sulcata demonstrated largest 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging activity (71 %). The cytotoxicity was measured on human HeLa (cervical carcinoma) cell lines using microculture tetrazolium test assay. The IC50 values estimated for methanol extracts of Peltigera praetextata, Evernia prunastri, Ramalina sinensis and Ramalina farinacea species in HeLa cell line were within 1.8–2.8 mg mL− 1 and considered as non-cytotoxic. Obtained results suggest that studied lichens can be prospective in biotechnologies as alternative sources of antimicrobial and antioxidant substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a new phenomenon in atmospheric physics—222Rn progeny circulation during thunderstorms. The enhancement of the natural gamma radiation during thunderstorms was measured with precise gamma ray spectrometers. Results of measurements performed at Aragats mountain in Armenia during summer 2020 demonstrate the Rn progeny lifted to the atmosphere by a near‐surface electric field are returned backward to the ground by rain precipitation. Thus, thunderstorms not only return negative charge to the Earth by lightning flashes but also maintain Rn progeny circulation in the atmosphere; it this way, significantly enlarging natural gamma radiation above the Earth surface and Radon concentration in the atmosphere. Plain Language Summary: Radon gas and its daughter products account for more than half of the total human radiation dose from natural and man‐made radionuclides in the environment. Radioactive radiation contributes to the processes that lead to lung cancer. According to the WHO, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after tobacco smoking. In the letter, we describe a new phenomenon in the terrestrial atmosphere‐ the circulation of Radon and its progenies during thunderstorms. Measurements performed at Aragats mountain in Armenia during summer 2020 demonstrate the identity of the Rn progeny lifted to the atmosphere by a near‐surface electric field, and progenies returned to the ground with rain droplets. Thus, thunderstorms not only return negative charge to the Earth but also maintain Radon progeny circulation in the atmosphere during thunderstorms; it this way, significantly enlarging natural gamma radiation. Key Points: We describe a new phenomenon in atmospheric physics—Rn‐222 progeny circulation during thunderstormsThe Rn progeny lifted to the atmosphere by a near‐surface electric field are returned back to the ground by rainThe enhancement of the natural gamma radiation during thunderstorms was measured with precise gamma ray spectrometers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to introduce a new concept and term into the scientometric discourse and research—scientometric implosion—and test the idea on the example of the Armenian journals. The article argues that the existence of a compressed scientific area in the country makes pressure on the journals and after some time this pressure makes one or several journals explode—break the limited national scientific area and move to the international arena. As soon as one of the local journals breaks through this compressed space and appears at an international level, further explosion happens, which makes the other journals follow the same path. Design/methodology/approach: Our research is based on three international scientific databases—WoS, Scopus, and RISC CC, from where we have retrieved information about the Armenian journals indexed there and citations received by those journals and one national database—the Armenian Science Citation Index. Armenian Journal Impact Factor (ArmJIF) was calculated for the local Armenian journals based on the general impact factor formula. Journals were classified according to Glänzel and Schubert (2003). Findings: Our results show that the science policy developed by the scientific authorities of Armenia and the introduction of ArmJIF have made the Armenian journals comply with international standards and resulted in some local journals to break the national scientific territory and be indexed in international scientific databases of RISC, Scopus, and WoS. Apart from complying with technical requirements, the journals start publishing articles also in foreign languages. Although nearly half of the local journals are in the fields of social sciences and humanities, only one journal from that field is indexed in international scientific databases. Research limitation: One of the limitations of the study is that it was performed on the example of only one state and the second one is that more time passage is needed to firmly evaluate the results. However, the introduction of the concept can inspire other similar case study. Practical implications: The new term and relevant model offered in the article can practically be used for the development of national journals. Originality/value: The article proposes a new term and a concept in scientometrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We investigated short- and long-term indicators of malnutrition and diet before and after the community-based 'Breaking the Cycle of Poverty' multidisciplinary intervention.Design: A historically and geographically controlled study using data collected in 2013 and 2016. We compared the prevalence of short-term indicators (anaemia, breast-feeding duration and minimum dietary diversity) and long-term indicators (stunting and wasting) in exposed communities at two time points. We then compared these factors in geographic areas exposed or not exposed to intervention. We conducted logistic regression analyses on the 2016 sample to measure associations between living in intervention communities and child growth indicators.Setting: Berd region, a chronic conflict zone near the north-eastern border of Armenia and Azerbaijan.Participants: Children aged 6 months to 6 years.Results: Analyses included data from 2013 comprising 382 children, and data from 2016 comprising 348 children living in communities where the programme was implemented, and 635 children from unexposed communities. Anaemia prevalence in exposed communities was significantly lower in 2016 v. 2013 (10·9 v. 19·1 %, P < 0·01). Minimum dietary diversity (79·0 v. 68·1 %, P < 0·001) and breast-feeding duration (13·0 v. 11·5 months, P < 0·002) were significantly improved in exposed communities. Prevalences of stunting (11·5 v. 10·2 %, P = 0·57) and wasting (4·8 v. 2·0 %, P = 0·07) were not significantly different. Odds of anaemia were significantly lower (OR = 0·24, 95 % CI 0·16, 0·36) in intervention communities.Conclusions: Exposure to a community-based multidisciplinary intervention reduced the rate of anaemia and improved dietary indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process of accumulation and economic growth of national wealth has traditionally been linked in theory and in practice to the geographical position of the country, mineral wealth, high-quality human capital, historical events. The article attempts to break this stereotype by linking the country's economic progress with the national value system. To this end, philosophical interpretations of the peculiarities of the Armenian people's national value system are made, analyzing the nation-wide advantages and disadvantages that directly affect the economic progress of the country. In particular, the manifestations of national values that impede Armenia's economic progress are revealed. In this respect, philosophical interpretation is given for Armenians, doing more effectively implement their entrepreneurial skills abroad, rather than in their homeland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Darevskia rock lizards were tested as a model for in situ genetic monitoring. • Comet assay results show elevated genetic damage in lizards from polluted sites. • Global DNA methylation results show decreased levels in lizards from polluted sites. • DNA damage and global methylation in lizards correlate with metal content in soil. • Age influences DNA damage and global DNA methylation, while sex has no effects. Widely distributed in Armenia bisexual and parthenogenetic species of Darevskia rock lizards have the potential to be considered as bioindicators of the effects of environmental pollutants. Juvenile and adult bisexual D. raddei and parthenogenetic D. armeniaca lizards were sampled from four locations with different levels of soil contamination. The comet assay, micronucleus (MN) test and global DNA methylation detection were applied in peripheral blood erythrocytes to assess genotoxic and epigenetic effects of pollutants. The concentrations of heavy metals were analyzed in the corresponding soil samples. In polluted areas levels of DNA damage were significantly higher and levels of global DNA methylation were significantly lower in both species than in reference sites. The levels of comets and global DNA methylation decreased with age but did not depend on sex. MN test did not show significant differences among localities or between sexes and age groups. The positive correlation between DNA damage and contents of Cr, Cu, As and Mo and negative correlation between global DNA methylation and contents of Cr, Cu, Zn, Mo and Pb were shown for D. raddei. The positive correlations between DNA damage and contents of Cr, Zn and Pb and negative correlations between global DNA methylation and contents of Cr, Zn, Mo, Cd and Pb were revealed for D. armeniaca. The correlation results for some metals are different in juveniles and adults. D. armeniaca showed higher sensitivity toward environmental pollution than D. raddei in their common habitat. Genetic homogeneity of parthenogenetic lizards permits to evaluate the effects of environmental pollutants independently from inter-individual genetic variation. In conclusion, the current study suggests that DNA damage and global DNA methylation may be applied to Darevskia lizards as a sentinel organism for assessing the effects of environmental pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The "Child Certificate" program, launched in Armenia in 2011, made hospitalization for children less than seven years free in order to improve access to hospitalization, reduce out-of-pocket expenses and ensure Universal Health Coverage. We aimed to estimate trends in the number of outpatient and hospitalized acute respiratory infection (ARI) cases and related under-five mortality. Methodology: Cross-sectional study using data from national databases before (2008-2011) and after (2012-2017) Program implementation. The diagnosis of ARI was based on the International Classification of Disease (ICD-10). Results: The average hospitalization per 1000 children under 14 and infants increased by 85% and 75% respectively, compared with the period before the introduction of the Program, while the frequency of outpatient visits remained unchanged. The ARI-related mortality in children less than five years and in infants decreased by 11% and 19%, respectively. Financial allocations for ARI-associated hospitalizations amounted to 2.1 billion Armenian drams in 2011 and increased to 3.3 billion drams in 2016 (an increase of 57%). For pneumonia, this increase was 108% (from 0.35 to 0.72 billion). Conclusions: The introduction of free hospitalization for ARI led to an increase in the hospitalization rates. There was a favorable decline in under-five mortality and an exponential increase in financial allocations. The reasons for hospitalization should be investigated to ensure rational hospitalization with parallel improvement of primary care to reduce delayed presentations. It is necessary to find ways addressing the growing financial allocations for ARI-associated hospitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The incidence of brucellosis in Armenia in 2010 was twice as high as in other countries of the Caucasian region and has almost doubled over the last three decades. This study aimed to investigate factors associated with acute or chronic forms of presentation of human brucellosis. Methodology: Retrospective study using data from medical records of 455 patients hospitalized for the first time at the Nork Republican Infectious Disease Referral Hospital in Yerevan, Armenia between the years 2006 and 2016. We undertook descriptive analysis of cases, compared acute and chronic cases, and identified factors associated with acute and chronic cases using regression. Results: The majority of brucellosis cases had acute case presentation (73.0%), were males (70.3%), between the ages of 20-60 years (66.2%) and unemployed (89.9%). About two-thirds of cases reported a history of consumption of raw unpasteurized milk. The multivariate analysis revealed that factors associated with the form of brucellosis were age, symptom duration preadmission, fever, antibody titer, and hospitalization outcomes. Conclusion: This study revealed that brucellosis is unevenly distributed across different age groups, as well as regions of Armenia. Affected individuals did not seek medical attention after the onset of the symptoms for about 2 months. Therefore, the targeted educational campaigns could be of crucial importance to prevent the disease in humans, contribute to its early diagnosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: First cases of clinically uncommon African swine fever (ASF), caused by virus genotype II are described in this article. These cases occurred in Armenia, Tavush region, Dilijan municipality in 2011. The aim of this study was to identify and describe the new pathogenic forms of ASF in Armenia. Materials and Methods: The isolation and identification of ASF virus (ASFV) were carried out using conventional techniques. Clinical signs of infection were recorded daily. Gross anatomical pathology characteristics were observed during routine postmortem examinations. Blood and serum were obtained by puncture of the jugular vein using a vacutainer system. Results: The presence of ASFV DNA in the spleens was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Sequenced sections of p72 showed phylogenetic identity to genotype 2. The pathology exhibits unusual manifestations of the main disease. The unusual form of ASF demonstrates characteristics of a subacute form of the disease, with the possibility of conversion to a chronic form. Decreased lethality, low level of hemorrhages, and absence of severe pancytopenia in smears from spleen, lymph nodes, and blood are common features of the new form of ASF. Unlike severe thrombocytopenia in the typical ASF, the unusual form exhibited moderate or minor decrease of this feature. Despite a moderate decrease in hemadsorption titers, the unusual pattern of the disease was characterized by viremia and the presence of the virus in the visceral organs, including the brain. Conclusion: Our data allow assuming that new nosological form of ASF (genotype II) may present as a transitional form of the disease with the possibility of chronization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of the anti-crisis measures implemented in Armenis is estimated rather low in terms of the anti-crisis measures implemented to ensure strategic and long-term economic growth. Taking this into account, in order to effectively handle future crises, it is necessary to develop a set of specific criteria and guidelines for the selection of the core directions of anti-crisis measures that can be applied in the development of policies aimed at overcoming crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current post-Soviet Republic of Armenia (RA) government is deeply entrenched in the crippling consequences of neoliberal economic processes its predecessors and current members unleashed. The RA has no diplomatic relations with two of its neighbors, Turkey and Azerbaijan, and finds itself at an intersection of various geopolitical interests of powerful actors, such as the European Union and Russia. Public officials and media manipulate these circumstances to package ethnonational belonging in neotraditionalist terms, which always hinges on heteropatriarchy and ethnic absolutism, among other things. This article suggests that through its queering activism around normative ideologies, a women's group, called Queering Yerevan Collective, creates a vital feminist formation that challenges these dominant, if corrupt, narratives of belonging. The feminist formation of the Collective is informed by multiscale intellectual and artistic decolonization of gendered individual and collective Soviet and post-Soviet experiences and knowledge, as well as the social and civic spaces and transnational feminist theoretical approaches they engage. This project of queering is a radicalizing effort, bringing a microlevel social change that the Collective makes possible by engendering new knowledge and activist tools through these decolonized (re)conceptualizations of past and present sociopolitical realities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our previous articles we have mentioned about the fact, that the family of dormouse (Myoxidae) is the least studied representatives of rodents not only in Armenia, but also throughout the region. In 1954, S.K. Dahl presented only two types of dormouses, namely edible dormouse (Glis glis) and forest dormouse (Dryomys nitedula) for the Armenian Mammal's Fauna, but later our scientific group disocovered and described species which had never been described before, the garden dormouse (Eliоmys quercinus). In this article the goals, methods and results of cytogenetic research on representatives of the dormouse family are presented. The research was conducted in the scope of grant with the Institute of Zoology of the PAN in Warsaw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Despite the trend of increasing prevalence of childhood anaemia in Armenia, no studies exploring its risk factors have been conducted in the country. The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence and determinants of childhood anaemia in rural Armenia.Design: Blood Hb level was measured among a representative sample of children using the HemoCue Hb201+ analyser. The revealed cases with anaemia were compared with randomly selected non-anaemic controls. Mothers of cases and controls were interviewed. Logistic and linear regression models were fitted to identify the risk factors of anaemia and low Hb level, respectively.Setting: Talin communities, Aragatsotn Province, Armenia.Subjects: Children under 5 years of age in Talin region.Results: Of the 729 studied children, 32·4% were anaemic with 14·7% having moderate/severe anaemia. Infants were the most affected group with 51·1% being anaemic before 6 months and 67·9% at 6-12 months of age. Fitted regression models identified the following predictors of anaemia: younger age, male gender, shorter birth length, anaemia during pregnancy, lower meal frequency per day, lack of meat in the diet, using dung cakes for heating and living in a community that received an incomplete set of nutrition interventions.Conclusions: The study identified several modifiable risk factors that could be targeted to reduce childhood anaemia in rural Armenia and, possibly, in rural areas in other low-/middle-income countries. The suggested interventions include prevention and treatment of anaemia during pregnancy, provision of adequate complementary feeding to children with inclusion of meat in their daily diet and reduction of their exposure to biomass fuel smoke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helminthic infections of reptiles habiting in the territory of Armenia are examined. Seven species of helminths new for reptiles from Armenia are registered: Parapharyngodon skrjabini, Oswaldocruzia goezei, Neoxysomatium sp., Telorchis assula, Nematotaenia tarentolae, Mesocestoides lineatus and Spirometra erinacei europea. Descriptions and pictures of them are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on interviews with journalists, this article shows that online media in Armenia have overcome some of the challenges that broadcast media have faced, thus creating a more benevolent environment for the freedom of expression. The ability to start an online publication without a licence has eliminated the control mechanisms by Armenian regulatory commissions, contributing to the growth of many independent online media. The latter have created a diverse and highly competitive media environment and have diminished the influence of ownership and political bias of pro-governmental and oppositional publications on content. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Reptiles are large class of wild vertebrates', which are components of different biocenosis and have irreplaceable role. Being definitive, intermediate and paratenic hosts for helminthes there are important links in helminth circulation. In spite of their large distributuion, we have a scant information about retiles' helminthic infections and this sphere needs a minutely examination. In our paper helminthofauna of 15 species of reptiles habiting in Armenia are examined. 12 species of helminthes detected: Spauligodon saxicolae Sharpilo, 1961; Spauligodon lacertae Sharpilo, 1966; Parapharyngodon skrjabini Vakker, 1969; Hexadontophorus ophisauri Kreis, 1940; Oswaldokruzia goezei Skrjabun et Schulz, 1952; Neoxysomatium sp. Ballesteros Marquez, 1945; Telorchis assula Dujardin, 1845; Nematotaenia tarentolae Lopez-Neyra, 1944; Ophiotaenia europea Odening, 1963; Mesocestoides lineatus Goeze, 1782; Spirometra erinacei europea Rud, 1819; Macracanthorhynchus catulinus Kostilew, 1927. Hosts, prevalence and intense of infection, life-cycles of helminthes are presented.Seven species of helminthes new for reptiles distributed in researched territory are registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the development of geographical atlases for the All-Union republics. Armenian scholars participated in the creation of such atlases, calling them as a scientific-informational cartographic publication. Information on the ethnographic maps published in Volume B of the "National Atlas," in 2008, is given. The article also describes the methods and principles used to map the ethnographical materials.

Objective: The aim of this research is to demonstrate the possibilities of a new device and propose the method of noninvasive evaluation of the integral physiologic state of biologic objects. Design: This study was a series of experiments with an elaborated device carried out on different living systems, including plants, animals, and people. Setting: Experiments were performed in the Laboratory of Integrative Biology at Orbeli Institute of Physiology of National Academy of Science of the Republic of Armenia. Methods: The working principle of the device is based on a change of the amplitude of light reflected from the sensor when a biologic object is placed some distance from the device. The obtained signals were monitored and analyzed by computer. Comparative studies were performed by standard electrophysiologic methods. Participants: The experiments were performed mainly on laboratory rats, but some research was done with people. Results: Various biologic objects exert different influence on the device; also, signals from the photodetector are changed depending on the functional state of the studied object subjected to the physical or medical influence. The device does not respond to inanimate objects at room temperature. Conclusions: The existence of a remote influence of biologic objects on surrounding objects is discovered by means of a novel elaborated device complex. The device can be used for objective distant evaluation of a functional state of biologic objects. Particularly, it can be employed for distant registration of signals from acupuncture points and zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One Trematoda species (Telorchis assula) and two Cestoda species (Ophiotaenia europea and Spirometra erinacei europea) of helminthes were found and described for widespread Dice snake Natrix tessellata (Laurenti, 1768) in Armenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Natural zeolites from Armenia modified by chemical treatment and electron irradiation were studied for water and benzene vapor absorption and structural change. A significant influence of irradiation on the sorption property of zeolites was obtained: with increase of the irradiation dose the sorption of water vapors increased, while for benzene vapors it changes slowly. The results are discussed in terms of structural change and charge state variations induced by irradiation in the zeolite framework. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Mortality rates in Western Europe have fallen significantly over the last 50 years. Maternal mortality now averages 10 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births but in some of the Newly Independent States of the former Soviet Union, the ratio is nearly 4 times higher. The availability of skilled attendants to prevent, detect and manage major obstetric complications may be the single most important factor in preventing maternal deaths. A modern, multidisciplinary, scenario and model based training programme has been established in the UK (Managing Obstetric Emergencies and Trauma (MOET)) and allows specialist obstetricians to learn or revise the undertaking of procedures using models, and to have their skills tested in scenarios. Methods: Given the success of the MOET course in the UK, the organisers were keen to evaluate it in another setting (Armenia). Pre-course knowledge and practice questionnaires were administered. In an exploratory analysis, post-course results were compared to pre-course answers obtained by the same interviewer. Results: All candidates showed an improvement in post-course scores. The range was far narrower afterwards (167-188) than before (85-129.5). In the individual score analysis only two scenarios showed a non-significant change (cord prolapse and breech delivery). Conclusion: This paper demonstrates the reliability of the model based scenarios, with a highly significant improvement in obstetric emergency management. However, clinical audit will be required to measure the full impact of training by longer term follow up. Audit of delays, specific obstetric complications, referrals and near misses may all be amenable to review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]