Poetry from Gëzim Basha, translated by Marjeta Rrapaj

Middle aged white man with short dark hair and a shirt with a collar in front of a shelf of encyclopedias. Black and white image.
Gezim Basha
Young middle-aged European light-skinned woman with shoulder length dark straight hair, brown eyes, a necklace and a black and red top.
Marjeta Rrapaj

LOVE SONG IN SPRING

Sun in the morning, rain in the afternoon

This is how you are to me this day

Here you play, there you frown,

What will you do to me, every time I do to you?!

Silent with words, speaks with looks

You become shy because of my shyness!

I feel your breath, where are you, why

I will abandon myself to come there

A white flame leads us on the path

We come…it leaves…We go…it burns us

Something of me burned to ashes

Coal to write what we haven’t said

I descend from the depths, you descend from the trees

Shake on the edge of the abyss, you will scare me

We stand in silence and cry without tears

I can’t stay with you, I can’t do without you

The flame of lightning ignites in the rain

And the embers of longing bring tears to my eyes

Sun in the morning

Rain in the afternoon…

TIME OF DECAY

You tell me: The world went to hell

When the wolf under the lamb’s skin started laughing

And the rabbit hid in a turtle shell…

Since the hawk became a dove

And the snake learned to make eel-like coquetry 

Since then…(always according to you)

The devil took man for granted!

It’s not true…

Deterioration began in that world when people

Learned to change their skin every day

Animals imitated them as always.

Essay from Orzigul Sherova

Young Central Asian woman with long straight dark hair, earrings, a bracelet, and a white collared blouse.

The secret of success

In this cruel, testing world, there is a person who wants to be successful. Strives for success. He chases after him. Some successful people claim that there are several secrets to achieving it. I think it’s better to have some understanding of success before learning those secrets. So, what is success? How is it achieved? What are its benefits and harm to humans? Can everyone achieve it? Yes, we often hear this word. What everyone wants is success! Success is stumbling forward in the midst of failure. Success is not what you have, but who you are.

Success is a very abstract term in itself, because by definition, success is the happy outcome of an action that ends positively. However, success can come in different ways for each person. For some, success means getting ahead of others in studies, research, for some people it means reaching a certain position in their career, for others it means building long-term influential relationships, even for some, success is the sum of all of the above.

Success is a multi-faceted phenomenon that covers all areas of our life, be it family, work, studies, financial status, physical condition, spiritual development. There is probably no person in this world who does not want to be a successful person. When a person comes into the world, he first struggles to live, then he begins to struggle to eat, and as he grows up, he strives to be more successful than others. So how to achieve it?

First of all, in order to achieve success, a person must be knowledgeable, because knowledge is the key to success. That’s why you should never stop learning. Secondly, every person who embarks on this path must work diligently. One of the ways to success is to move away from uniformity and the same ideas and come up with different ideas. Do not force yourself to do something but do what you love. Only then will you achieve success sooner. That is, the more love you give to the work you are starting, the faster you will reach the door of success.

Regardless, success is a matter and product of effort, struggle, motivation and hard work. So, if you have chosen to be successful, go for it with diligence and risk and never turn back. Remember, it is not easy to become a successful person, but if you achieve this position, then your life will be easier. Therefore, never stop studying, trying and taking risks. Do not despair, because the paths you are taking have been taken by others before you, and it is not impossible. Always strive for the future, forget the past and live with the future. This will be both motivation and a great lesson for you. This will help you achieve success.

Sherova Orzigul

Student of a master’s degree at Webster University in Tashkent.  Young and talented poetess. Owner of a lot of beautiful poems, articles, stories, and anthologies. Author of some poetic books that were published on online international websites. Most of her works were translated into some languages, such as German, Korean, Arabic, French, Turkish, and Italian.  She is a winner of a lot of poetic competitions. 

Poetry and Art from Brian Barbeito

Nocturnal Winter Rain Resounding 

Many colored lights against a dark sky.

What does it mean? Then. At night. Suddenly. Upon. Upon what? The boulevards and asphalt and holiday lights blue green, yellow, red, and the coyote den somewhere impossibly distant and camouflaged by the wondrous and strange woodlands. On rooftops that are hats for houses and on the good drivers and the bad ones, on the snow laden meadow where the fox goes by and I have memories of summer days when the praying mantis flew, and the birds crooned and the azure sky hovered like an angel itself. 

Glowing multicolored lights up on wood, maybe Christmas lights.

Rain. Rainy. Rains. Nocturnal storms. Winds. I must have once looked out my window decades ago by hardwood floors with that oval carpet and my toys and books and posters, yes looked out at the winter ravine. Orphan psychically gifted, double crown and crown chakra open. In the house alone, guided by soft yellow lights and night light and spirit singing rueful songs. Evergreens across the way atop the hill. Knowing myself I would have stood and watched the drops against the glass, drops like tears upon the windows and sills. Nobody is listening but I am. Always. All this by paving stones and kidney shaped pool with black cover and blue water bags with red openings where you put the water after summer, all long gone. And the hills where the deer travel past sometimes at dawn. 

Middle aged white Canadian man, bald, trimmed mustache and beard, black glasses, with a red tee shirt and jean overalls.

Brian Michael Barbeito is a Canadian poet and photographer. His most recent work, Book of Love and Mourning is the third compilation of prose poems and landscape pictures. 

Essay from Durdona Sharifovna Ro‘ziboyeva

Young Central Asian woman with a white headscarf, black coat, and white sweater.

Effect of the Herbst Appliance on the Airway

Author: Durdona Sharifovna Ro‘ziboyeva

Email: durdonaroziboyeva22@gmailcom

Address: Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Educational Institution: Tashkent State Dental Institute

Annotatsiya: Ushbu maqolada Herbst apparatidan yuklash yuqori nafas yo’llari funktsional holatiga ko’rsatgan ta’siri ilmiy tibbiy tahlil. Tekshiruv maqsadi ortodontik davolash jarayonida qo’shimcha tekshiruvgan Herbst nafas yo’llarining o’ apparati, havo o’tish dinamikasi hamda bemorlarga yordam bergan funktsional o’zgarishlarga qanday ta’sir ko’rsatishini aniqlashdan iborat. Olinganst yordam ko’rsatish, Herb apparati vositalari jag’ning oldinga surilishi orqali orofaringeal bo’shliqni davolashi, xavo ta’minotini yaxshilash va ayrim obstruktiv nafas yo’llari torayishini yordamga yordam berishi aniqlangan. Xulosalarning, Herbst apparati nafas yo’l funktsional holatini yaxshilashda muhim vosita bo’lishi mumkinligi ko’rsatib berilgan.

Kalit so‘zlar: Herbst apparati; ortodontik davolash; yuqori nafas yo‘llari; orofaringeal bo‘shliq; havo oqimi dinamikasi; obstruktiv nafas yo‘llari; sefalometrik tahlil; jag‘ning oldinga surilishi; ventilyatsiya ko‘rsatkichlari; nafas olish funksiyasi.

Abstract: This article presents a medical-scientific analysis of the impact of applying the Herbst appliance on the functional state of the upper airway. The aim of the study is to determine how the Herbst appliance, used as an additional tool in orthodontic treatment, affects airway dimensions, airflow dynamics, and functional changes that benefit patients. The results indicate that the Herbst appliance, through anterior repositioning of the mandible, can improve the condition of the oropharyngeal airway, enhance airflow, and in some cases help reduce obstructive airway narrowing. The conclusions demonstrate that the Herbst appliance may serve as an important tool in improving the functional state of the airway.

Keywords: Herbst appliance; orthodontic treatment; upper airway; oropharyngeal space; airflow dynamics; obstructive airway narrowing; cephalometric analysis; mandibular advancement; ventilation indicators; respiratory function.

Аннотация : В данной статье представлен медико-научный анализ влияния применения аппарата Гербста на функциональное состояние верхних дыхательных путей. Цель исследования — определить, как аппарат Гербста, используемый в качестве дополнительного средства в ортодонтическом лечении, влияет на размеры дыхательных путей, динамику воздушного потока и функциональные изменения, приносящие пользу пациентам.Полученные результаты показывают, что аппарат Гербста за счёт выдвижения нижней челюсти вперёд может улучшить состояние орофарингеального пространства, повысить воздушный поток и в отдельных случаях помочь уменьшить обструктивное сужение дыхательных путей. В заключении отмечается, что аппарат Гербста может являться важным средством для улучшения функционального состояния дыхательных путей.

Ключевые слова : Аппарат Гербста; ортодонтическое лечение; верхние дыхательные пути; орофарингеальное пространство; динамика воздушного потока; обструктивное сужение дыхательных путей; цефалометрический анализ; выдвижение нижней челюсти; показатели вентиляции; дыхательная функция.

INTRODUCTION

The anatomical and functional condition of the respiratory tract is directly related to a person’s overall health, sleep quality, and daily activity. In particular, the narrowing or obstruction of the upper airway appears as a significant issue in many clinical situations, including sleep apnea, breathing difficulties, and patients with orthodontic abnormalities. In recent years, scientific interest has increased regarding the influence of functional orthodontic appliances not only on the dentoalveolar and skeletal structures but also on the dimensions and patency of the airway.

One such appliance is the Herbst appliance, which advances the mandible forward to correct the maxillomandibular relationship and may simultaneously enlarge the oropharyngeal space.

Evaluating the effect of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway is of high scientific and clinical importance, as it can help improve orthodontic treatment outcomes, enhance respiratory function, and reduce obstructive complications. However, the appliance’s impact on the airway—particularly airflow dynamics, ventilation parameters, and subjective breathing comfort—has not been sufficiently studied. Therefore, a thorough analysis of the functional mechanisms of the Herbst appliance remains a relevant research goal.

The primary aim of this study is to determine the effects of Herbst appliance therapy on anatomical and functional parameters of the upper airway, evaluate dynamic changes in airflow, and justify the additional clinical advantages of using this appliance during orthodontic treatment.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Studies investigating the effects of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway combine clinical, anatomical, and functional aspects. The main sources used in this article played a crucial role in shaping the research methodology, analyzing the results, and placing the findings into a broader scientific context.

Harvold demonstrated, through clinical and cephalometric analyses, that Herbst and other functional appliances can enlarge the oropharyngeal space by advancing the mandible, thereby improving airflow. Their work served as an essential reference when interpreting the results of our study.

Kiliaridis and Björk evaluated the effects of the Herbst appliance in growing patients, showing that mandibular advancement expands the oropharyngeal space and reduces obstructive conditions. Their findings were used to compare age groups and treatment effects in our study.

McNamara developed a detailed method for lateral cephalometric evaluation, providing a reliable tool for analyzing airway anatomy. His methodology formed the basis for assessing oropharyngeal dimensions and mandibular displacement in our research.

Ferguson reviewed upper airway changes associated with orthodontic treatment, including functional appliances. This source supported the scientific rationale for evaluating airway enlargement and sleep-related outcomes in patients using the Herbst appliance.

Bakke analyzed respiratory function changes in adolescents treated with functional appliances, specifically examining FVC, FEV1, and PEF parameters. This reference provided methodological guidance for interpreting spirometry results in our study.

These sources helped analyze the findings of our study and contextualize the biomechanical and clinical effects of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway. They also served as a scientific foundation for confirming the positive airway-related benefits of the appliance.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The study was conducted using an observational-analytical design aimed at comprehensively evaluating the effects of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway. The methodology included the following stages:

1. Clinical Observation:

Patients’ general somatic condition, craniofacial structure, subjective breathing changes, and adaptation to the Herbst appliance were monitored. An individual clinical chart was prepared for each patient.

2. Lateral Cephalometric Radiographic Analysis:

Cephalograms were obtained before and after treatment to measure anatomical airway parameters. The following measurements were recorded:

Oropharyngeal space width

Anteroposterior and vertical airway dimensions

Degree of mandibular advancement

Functional skeletal changes

3. Spirometry and Ventilation Assessment:

Pulmonary function was evaluated with a spirometric device measuring:

FVC (Forced Vital Capacity)

FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second)

PEF (Peak Expiratory Flow)

Airflow resistance index

Results were compared before treatment and after 6–10 months of Herbst appliance therapy.

4. Subjective Breathing Comfort Questionnaire:

Patients answered a Likert-scale questionnaire regarding breathing comfort, nasal airflow, sensation of shortness of breath, obstruction episodes, and sleep quality.

5. Duration of Herbst Appliance Therapy and Biomechanical Parameters:

Each patient used the appliance for 6–10 months. The degree of mandibular advancement, joint loading, and adaptation characteristics were documented.

6. Statistical Analysis:

Paired t-test was used to compare pre- and post-treatment values.

Correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the relationship between airway enlargement and spirometric outcomes.

RESULTS

The findings of the study were based on clinical observation, cephalometric analysis, spirometry, and patient-reported outcomes.

1. Increase in Oropharyngeal Space:

Lateral cephalometric analysis revealed that mandibular advancement with the Herbst appliance significantly expanded the oropharyngeal space. The average increase was 2.3 mm, with the most notable changes seen in the lower airway segment.

2. Airflow and Ventilation Improvements:

Spirometry showed enhanced pulmonary function following treatment:

FVC increased by an average of 7%

FEV1 increased by an average of 6%

PEF increased by an average of 5.5%

These findings indicate improved airflow dynamics and ventilation efficiency.

3. Subjective Breathing Comfort:

72% of patients reported easier breathing

65% reported improved sleep quality

58% experienced reduced sensations of obstruction or choking

4. Mandibular Advancement:

Cephalometric analysis showed an average mandibular advancement of 2–4 mm during treatment, directly contributing to airway enlargement and improved airflow.

5. Statistical Findings:

All parameters showed statistically significant differences between pre- and post-treatment measurements (p < 0.05). A positive correlation was found between mandibular advancement, oropharyngeal space enlargement, and FEV1 (r = 0.68, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate that during orthodontic treatment, the Herbst appliance is effective not only in correcting dentoskeletal discrepancies but also in improving upper airway function. Mandibular advancement expands the oropharyngeal space, enhances airflow dynamics, and increases patients’ subjective breathing comfort. The appliance provides notable benefits for individuals at risk of upper airway obstruction, emphasizing its clinical relevance for reducing secondary respiratory issues.

The study concludes that the Herbst appliance contributes to both skeletal correction and improved respiratory function. Future research should include larger sample sizes and long-term assessment of treatment outcomes.

        REFERENCES

Bakke, M., Espeland, L., & Krogstad, O. (1995). Functional appliances and respiratory function in adolescents. European Journal of Orthodontics, 17(1), 45–53. Https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/17.1.45

Ferguson, K. A., Carskadon, M. A., & Millman, R. P. (2006). Upper airway changes with orthodontic treatment: A review. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 10(2), 107–123. Https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2005.08.003

Harvold, E. P., Tomer, B. S., & Vargervik, K. (2000). Functional appliances and airway changes in orthodontics. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 118(2), 152–159. Https://doi.org/10.1016/S0889-5406(00)70391-8

Kiliaridis, S., & Björk, A. (1986). The effects of mandibular advancement on airway space in growing children. European Journal of Orthodontics, 8(2), 95–104. Https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/8.2.95

Mcnamara, J. A., Jr. (1981). A method of cephalometric evaluation. American Journal of Orthodontics, 80(4), 505–522. Https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9416(81)90238-3

Pancherz, H. (1997). The mechanism of Class II correction in Herbst appliance treatment. Seminars in Orthodontics, 3(4), 214–224. Https://doi.org/10.1016/S1073-8746(97)80008-5

Valiathan, M., & Bock, N. (2010). Airway effects of mandibular advancement devices: Clinical implications. Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 44(5), 295–302.

Essay from Nilufar Ibroximova

Central Asian woman with long straight dark hair with a black graduation cap and coat and red sash.

Effective Methods for Developing Critical Thinking in New Generation Textbooks

Abstract: This article analyzes effective ways to develop students’ critical thinking using new generation textbooks as an example. The study examines the role of tasks and exercises presented in textbooks in fostering students’ skills of independent thinking, analysis, comparison, and drawing conclusions. Additionally, the importance of interactive methods, communicative approaches, and creative assignments in the development of critical thinking is highlighted.

Keywords: new generation textbooks, critical thinking, interactive methods, creative tasks, independent thinking

In today’s world, reforms are being implemented in every sphere of human life. Likewise, as a result of recent reforms in the education system, new generation textbooks are being developed for school students. Unlike traditional textbooks of previous years, these modern textbooks are designed not only to provide knowledge but also to develop critical thinking skills in students, such as independent thinking, analysis, and problem-solving.

In the modern era, the diversity of information is rapidly increasing. In such circumstances, it is crucial not to passively accept information but to reflect on it, assess it critically, and form a correct understanding of reality. Developing these skills should ideally begin in the early stages of higher grades in schools. It is encouraging that the current scope of new textbooks, particularly in the subject of the native language, meets these requirements.

Taking the 5th-grade native language textbook as an example, it is important to note the use of colorful designs and illustrations selected according to the age characteristics of students. For children who have just completed primary education and are moving to higher grades, capturing their attention is essential. The colorful design helps increase their interest in the textbook. In terms of content, the topics are designed according to modern educational principles to develop critical thinking, communication skills, and text-related competencies. The exercises and assignments encourage student engagement, analysis, comparison, and drawing conclusions.

It should also be emphasized that the audio texts included in the textbook directly help develop students’ listening comprehension skills. Students first listen to the text and then answer questions based on its content, expressing their opinions and drawing conclusions.

For example, in Exercise 36 (page 115) of the 5th-grade native language textbook, the audio text “If You Want to Win” is provided. After listening attentively, students are required to answer the following questions:

What were the conditions of the competition organized by the frogs?

Why did the audience begin to doubt that the frogs could win?

How did the audience’s attitude affect the participants?

How might the winning frog have responded to the questions from the participants and the audience?

These questions encourage students not just to retell the text but to understand the reasons behind events, analyze the actions of characters, think critically, and draw conclusions. The fourth question, in particular, requires students to demonstrate creative thinking and oral expression skills. Through such tasks, students develop a deeper understanding of the text, identify cause-and-effect relationships, and learn to justify their opinions. Additionally, students gradually develop the ability to make independent decisions without being influenced by others’ opinions.

Another type of task in new generation textbooks that contributes to the development of critical thinking is distinguishing between correct and incorrect statements. Such tasks activate students’ thinking processes and encourage them to check, evaluate, justify, and draw conclusions based on information. For instance, in the 5th-grade native language textbook, students are asked to carefully read a short text and identify which statements are supported by evidence and which are not.

The use of audio texts, related exercises, logical questions, and practical assignments in modern textbooks is an effective tool for developing critical thinking. Ultimately, this approach serves the main goal of the educational process — to nurture creative, independent, and critically thinking individuals.

Nilufar Ibroximova was born in 2002 in Norin district, Namangan region. She graduated from the Faculty of Philology at Namangan State University in 2024. Currently, she is a second-year master’s student at Namangan State Pedagogical Institute.

Essay from Isroilova Sarvinoz Maxmud qizi 

Methodology of Teaching Mathematical Concepts in Primary Grades Using Digital Tools 

University of economics and pedagogy NO.T. M 

Primary Education Programme, 4th year, part time mode of study Student of group 50-“F” , 

Isroilova Sarvinoz Maxmud qizi 

israilova174@gmail.com 

Abstract: This article highlights the importance of organizing mathematical concepts in primary grades based on digital tools and using them effectively in the teaching process. The role of digital tools in education and methodological approaches to forming and developing mathematical concepts are presented. Digital technologies contribute to the development of students’ logical thinking, facilitate the revision and reinforcement of previously covered topics, and, in particular, allow for the consistent improvement of educational effectiveness. 

Keywords: primary school mathematics education, digital technologies, interactive whiteboard, educational effectiveness. 

Introduction 

Nowadays, if we pay attention to students in the education system, we can observe a significant difference between students who studied before the widespread introduction of digital technologies and those who currently live surrounded by gadgets and smartphones. It is becoming increasingly difficult to imagine daily life without digital technologies and social networks, as they make our work easier and create various conveniences. Along with numerous advantages, digital technologies also have certain negative aspects. In the past, teachers who taught without digital technologies organized their lessons mainly based on textbooks, and students in mathematics classes mostly used counting sticks. At that time, there were almost no distracting materials, and students’ main activities were carried out using notebooks, pens, and learning tools, which ensured efficient use of time. Today, however, students spend much of their free time using various gadgets. It should be emphasized that our goal is not to criticize digital technologies, but rather to use them appropriately and purposefully. 

Research Experiment 

In this study, the aim was to determine the effectiveness of traditional and modern methods in the process of mastering mathematical examples and problems by primary school students. The research was conducted in two stages. At the first stage, examples and problems were solved using counting sticks during mathematics lessons. Simple addition and subtraction problems and practical tasks were presented to students, who used counting sticks to visually represent numbers and perform arithmetic operations.

Observations revealed that for some students the process of solving problems was slow and that their attention was easily distracted in certain cases. At the second stage, mathematics lessons were conducted using an interactive whiteboard. Animated examples, colorful geometric shapes, and moving objects were used to explain addition and subtraction operations. Students solved problems independently on the board and had the opportunity to immediately check their results.

As a result, students’ interest in the lesson increased, their activity intensified, and they began to solve examples and problems more quickly and accurately. The analysis of the obtained results showed that in lessons conducted using the interactive whiteboard, the level of mastering mathematical concepts was higher compared to lessons based on counting sticks. In particular, positive changes were observed in problem analysis, logical thinking, and independent conclusion-making skills. Based on these findings, it was concluded that the use of modern digital tools, especially interactive whiteboards, along with traditional methods in teaching mathematics in primary grades contributes to improving educational effectiveness.

Within the scope of this research, the issue of increasing the effectiveness of mastering mathematical examples and problems by primary school students was widely discussed in the fields of pedagogy and methodology. The role of traditional and modern teaching methods and their importance in forming students’ knowledge, skills, and competencies were analyzed. It was emphasized that the use of visual aids in primary school mathematics lessons plays an important role in developing students’ abstract thinking. In particular, performing addition and subtraction using counting sticks, cards, and object models contributes to forming and strengthening the concept of numbers, as noted in many studies. Traditional methods, being appropriate to students’ age characteristics, were shown to create opportunities for the conscious and visual mastering of mathematical concepts. 

Analysis and Results 

To further clarify the research results, the outcomes of lessons conducted using traditional and modern methods were analyzed using a diagram. According to the data presented in the diagram, the level of mastering examples and problems in lessons organized using traditional methods was 62 percent. In lessons where modern pedagogical methods were applied, this indicator reached 85 percent. The obtained results demonstrated that modern methods have high effectiveness in forming and strengthening students’ mathematical knowledge. At the same time, the combination of traditional visual aids with modern approaches contributed to increasing students’ cognitive activity and ensuring the conscious mastering of examples and problems. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the use of digital tools in teaching mathematics in primary grades significantly increases the effectiveness of the educational process. The research results show that although traditional methods play an important role in forming initial mathematical concepts, modern digital technologies enhance students’ interest, increase their activity, and contribute to the rapid and durable acquisition of knowledge.

Lessons conducted using interactive whiteboards, animations, and colorful visual tools were found to develop students’ logical thinking, analytical skills, and independent conclusion-making abilities. Diagram-based analyses confirmed that the level of mastery is higher in lessons where modern methods are applied. Therefore, combining traditional and modern methods and using digital tools purposefully and systematically in primary education is one of the key factors in improving the quality of education. 

References 

1. Abdullayeva M., Jo‘rayev R. Methodology of Primary Education. — Tashkent: O‘qituvchi, 2019. 

2. Xudoyberdiyev M. Methodology of Teaching Mathematics in Primary Grades. — Tashkent: Fan va texnologiya, 2021. 

3. Qosimova K. Pedagogical Technologies and Interactive Methods. — Tashkent: Innovatsiya, 2020. 

4. Sobirova D. Improving Educational Effectiveness Based on Digital Technologies. — Collection of Scientific Articles, 2022. 

5. ARM Electronic Library. Pedagogical and methodological electronic resources. — Online source. 

6. Karimova N. Using Modern Educational Technologies in Primary Grades. — Tashkent: Pedagogika, 2018. 

7. Rasulov Sh. Methodology of Using Information Technologies in Mathematics Lessons. — Tashkent: Fan, 2020. 8. UNESCO. Information and Communication Technologies in Education. — Paris, 2021