bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
К вопросу о роли материнского фактора при дакриоцистите новорожденных
Authors:   Children's Regional Clinical Hospital, Krasnodar, Akopova E.K. , Komarovskikh E.N. ,   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Sakhnov S.N. ,   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar,   Fyodorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution, Krasnodar branch, Podtynnykh E.V. ,   Fyodorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution, Krasnodar branch
Published: June 2021

Purpose. To study the characteristics of neonatal dacryocystitis, taking into account the state of health of their mothers and its possible impact on the development of neonatal dacryocystitis. Material and methods. A retrospective analysis of 724 outpatient medical records and case histories of children with neonatal dacryocystitis (868 eyes) and an assessment of the health status of their mothers were carried out. Results. It was found that children with neonatal dacryocystitis had concomitant somatic pathology in 11.6% of cases and congenital eye pathology in 2.3%. Among the somatic pathology, there were diseases of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, disorders of the musculoskeletal system and lesions of the central nervous system, as well as other unexplained diseases. The burdened heredity according to neonatal dacryocystitis was found in 23.5% of children. Mothers of children with neonatal dacryocystitis suffered from somatic diseases in 14.4% of cases and gynecological pathology in 8.5% of cases. Sexually transmitted diseases were in 19.5% of mothers. Influenza or acute respiratory viral infection in the first trimester of pregnancy was suffered by 65.9% of mothers of children with DN. The pathological course of the first trimester of pregnancy was observed in 74.7% of mothers. Conclusion. The frequency of somatic, gynecological diseases, genital infections, influenza or acute respiratory viral infections during pregnancy, the pathological course of pregnancy in mothers of children with neonatal dacryocystitis, and somatic diseases in newborns, in addition to inflammation of the lacrimal sac, suggest the presence of the so-called, “maternal factor” – maternal health, contributing to the development, along with neonatal dacryocystitis, pathological clinical conditions due to possible intrauterine infection of the fetus, which corresponds to the infectious-inflammatory theory of development of neonatal dacryocystitis. Key words: children, maternal factor, inflammation of the lacrimal sac, neonatal dacryocystitis.
Keratoconus in Children
Authors:   Fyodorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution, Moscow, Markova E.Y. , Avakyants G.V. ,   Fyodorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution, Moscow
Published: June 2021

The review presents current data on the development and treatment of keratoconus in children, on the possible manifestation of keratoconus as one of the symptoms of connective tissue dysplasia, as well as on possible methods for preventing progression. Key words: keratoconus, keratoconus in children, corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL).
Identifying and ranking new product factors of fashion industry (case study Iranian menswear brand)
Authors: Nazemi Siamak , Bagherzade Roohollah
Published: June 2021

In fashion industry, creative ideas and new products appear in new collections of brands presented in several ways, such as fashion week, exhibition etc. Iranian menswear also had the same strategy, but because of features of their customers, usually they use same designs and products in their new collections. Achieving new products in fashion industry can be related to design and technology aspect. Here we are looking for important factors affecting new products in Iranian menswear and also aiming at understanding which strategy are utilized in these product lines. Firstly this is done by gathering data from the Iranian Fashion association and 3 big Iranian menswear brands, secondly by interviews with experts from Iranian menswear brands, looking for answers of the study question. Twelve factors released from literature of study are divided in four sections: fabric sector, garment and accessories sector, and market sector. In 2010-decade, Iranian menswear brands focused on the technology factor in their new products, but during recent years, they changed their mind and now change direction to design departments. These phenomena happen due to the impact of social media on Iranian culture, with social media changing the behavior of the Iranian customer. Generally, accessing the directors of menswear brands was difficult, and during their interview they tried to hide some information. New products were an important factor in increasing market of any menswear brand. This study helps them to utilize the best strategy depending on their customers and market. This study confirms a new product’s impact on customer behavior and culture which could be difference with time.
The effect of fabric’s structure on the breathability and the drying rate Properties
Authors: Chakroun Mohamed Ghaith , Benltoufa Sofien , Fayala Faten
Published: June 2021

Many parameters affect sportswear comfort. Therefore, we selected five sportswear fabrics designed for jogging and hiking T-shirts to study their structural characteristics and to investigate the influence of these characteristics on the clothing comfort properties. The areal weight, the thickness, the loop length and the course and wales densities were calculated. Investigations were performed on air permeability, water vapor resistance and drying time/rate properties of selected fabrics. We found that an increase in the mass per square meter and in thickness decreases the air permeability and increases the water vapor resistance of knitted fabrics. The air permeability is proportional to the loop length, while the water vapor resistance is inversely proportional to the loop length. Finally we did not find any significant relation between the fabric’s structure characteristics and the drying time/rate.
Variations in the Impact Spatter Patterns due to Blunt Weapons Inflicted by Different Gender and Age Groups
Authors:   Department of Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Pakistan, K Wafa , M Butt ,   Department of Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Pakistan, AA Khan ,   Department of Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Pakistan, MJ Aslam ,   Department of Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Pakistan, H Nadir ,   Department of Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Pakistan, MA Tahir ,   Director General of Punjab Forensic Science Agency Lahore, Pakistan, KS Feras ,   Department of Trace Chemistry, Punjab Forensic Science Agency Lahore, Pakistan, MI Ashiq ,   Department of Trace Chemistry, Punjab Forensic Science Agency Lahore, Pakistan
Published: June 2021

Bloodstain pattern analysis makes use of the mechanics of bloodstains to estimate the time, nature and the sequence of events at the crime scene. In this study, a quantitative methodology was developed which includes manually calculating the average size of the bloodstains and the synthetic bloodstains to distinguish the impact stain patterns created by different gender and age groups using the two blunt weapons. Impact stains were created by hitting sponges soaked in blood and synthetic blood using a hammer and a cricket bat. A smaller bloodstain size was observed of the group of males aged between 18 to 30 years. Greater amount of spatter and the distribution of the blood spatter were observed with the bat as compared to hammer due to larger surface area of bat. Cast off patterns were studied and were observed to be produced only by the bat which can be attributed to its higher surface area. Results showed difference in the bloodstain diameter produced from human blood and synthetic blood evaluating if the synthetic blood is suitable for use, as well as variation in the average stain size between produced by the four groups using both the fluids.
Asymmetric Dense Breast is an Independent Breast Cancer Risk Factor
Authors:   Department of Radiology, Cancer Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, A Alikhassi , R Shariatalavi ,   Department of Radiology, Cancer Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, B Moradi ,   Department of Radiology, Advanced Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Published: June 2021

Objectives: There are multiple known breast cancer risk factors, but most women with breast cancer do not have any of them, so there should be some other unknown risk factors. We hypothesized that asymmetric breast densities could be another breast cancer risk factor. Method: In this study, we defined two case and control groups with 136 women with breast cancer and 136 who did not have breast cancer, respectively. Any different type of asymmetry in either breast was recorded in both groups. Result: The frequency of focal asymmetry in cases was 47 (34.6%), which was statistically more significant than in the control group (28 (20.6%)) (p=0.010). There were three (2.9%) and five (3.7%) global asymmetries in the case and control groups, respectively (p=0.735). The frequency of one view asymmetry in the case and control groups was not significant (16 (11.8%) and 9 (6.6%) respectively) (p=0.142). In the case group, 59 (43.4%) women had at least one type of asymmetry, compared to 41 (30.1%) in the control group (p=0.02). We identify focal asymmetries (likelihood ratio, 1.215; p=0.027) is risk factors for breast cancer. Conclusion: Breast density asymmetry is a breast cancer risk factor that could be scored, thus enhancing risk stratification for screening and prevention.
Male Breast Cancer: Current Essentials & Review
Authors:   Department of Surgical Oncology, Vedant Cancer & Multispecialty Hospital, Mumbai, India, SS Kadam , T Kadam ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Conwest & Jain Superspeciality Eye Hospital, Mumbai, India
Published: June 2021

Background: Breast cancer in male is a very rare condition but some of the reported case series had shown that its incidence is increasing over the last 25 years. The etiology of breast cancer in males differs from that of females in many ways. The literature lacks the prospective randomized evidences supporting the treatment of male breast cancer. Only retrospective evidences are available and all guidelines are extrapolated from the best available data of treatment of female breast cancer. Therefore, we have reviewed, compiled and tried to present the best available literature which highlights the treatment of male breast cancer .The reported incidence of breast cancer in men is around 1.2%-2% of all cancers in males and less than 1% of all breast cancers in both sexes. If it involves both breasts then it becomes an extremely uncommon condition which accounts for only 1% of all male breast cancer. Elderly males are most commonly diagnosed with breast cancer and they are approximately 5 to 10 years older than the women. The most common reason of breast cancer in males is excess of estrogen in the body and all conditions which leads to hyperestrogenism are responsible for increasing the risk of cancer.
Enhanced Thymopoiesis as an Alternative Therapeutic Option for COVID-19
Authors:   Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Fátima, Sevilla, Spain, M Genebat , A Calderón ,   Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Fátima, Sevilla, Spain, L Tarancón-Díez ,   Immunology Section, Laboratorio Inmuno-Biología Molecular (LIBM), Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IISGM), Madrid, Spain, MA Muñoz-Fernández ,   Immunology Section, Laboratorio Inmuno-Biología Molecular (LIBM), Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IISGM), Madrid, Spain, M Leal ,   Infectious Diseases and Immunology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Viamed Santa Ángela de la Cruz, Sevilla, Spain
Published: June 2021

The pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19 disease) has expanded worldwide. Currently, it is well known that advanced age is an independent predictor of mortality and severe clinical outcome, apart from other comorbidities [1]. Underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms that could explain the severe clinical outcome among elderly subjects are not well known [2], although it has been described that both immunosenescence and a low-level systemic inflammation (inflamm-aging) could also play a relevant role [3,4]. Now a days, apart from an effective vaccine development, research efforts are focused on therapeutic approaches that could minimize both the viral replication and the further inflammatory cascade driving to respiratory distress and multiorgan failure; however, up to now, no specific therapy for SARS-CoV-2 infection has been established [5]. Awaiting for definitive and conclusive results from prospective clinical trials, antiviral and immunomodulatory drugs currently employed in SARS-CoV-2-infected subjects are based on their biological plausibility according to the mechanism of action or in vitro efficacy, but not in a definitive scientific evidences. Taken altogether, alternative hypothesis about underlying mechanisms driving to an impaired clinical outcome in COVID-19 disease are required. In this sense, even the universally accepted role of the cytokine storm has been questioned [6]. Hence, the greater hypothesis is considered the greater and more beneficial therapeutic options could be tested. Recently, our group has suggested that thymic dysfunction could play a relevant role in the impaired clinical outcome observed in elderly SARS-CoV-2-infected subjects [7]. Thus, the main objective of the present opinion paper is to explore a new therapeutic option for COVID-19 disease, based on enhancing thymic function.
The Effect of Antibiotics on Lucilia sericata’s Maggot in the Treatment of Patients with Osteomyelitis
Authors:   Department of Medical Microbiology/Traditional, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, and Complementary Medicine Application and Research Center, Turkey, E Polat , N Matlabi ,   Department of Medical Microbiology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Turkey, Z Kutlubay ,   Department of Dermatology and Venereal Diseases/ Traditional, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Turkey
Published: June 2021

Objective: Applying antibiotics and maggot of Lucilia sericata, in our study, it was aimed to treat patients with osteomyelitis who had been treated with antibiotics, hyperbaric oxygen, vacuum, classical treatment methods and surgical debridement for a long time but did not show any improvement. Methods: Between July 2008 and September 2018, Maggot Debridement Therapy (MDT) was planned for 257 patients with osteomyelitis, 74 women and 183 men. Before starting the treatment, the material was taken from the wounds of the patients and sent to the microbiology laboratory. The antibiotic treatment that was initiated in the patients was continued and L. sericata maggot were placed in their wounds twice a week, and they were removed from the wound after being held for 48-72 hours. Results: From 165 patients with ongoing oteomyelitis treatment, 156 patients (94.5%) were treated, but 9 patients (5.5%) were untreated.
Hepatitis B Virus Infection among Prison Inmates in Borno State: Determination of Prevalence of Surface Antigen (HBsAg) and Possible Risk Factors of Disease
Authors:   Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Maiduguri, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Nigeria, S Lawan , AD Elyuguda ,   Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Maiduguri, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Nigeria, SN Gimba ,   Department of Basic Nursing, Shehu Sule College of Nursing and Midwifery Damaturu, Nigeria, H Sabo ,   Department of Basic Nursing, Shehu Sule College of Nursing and Midwifery Damaturu, Nigeria, HM Dadile ,   Department of Basic Nursing, Shehu Sule College of Nursing and Midwifery Damaturu, Nigeria
Published: June 2021

An epidemiological study on hepatitis B virus infection among prison inmates in Borno state, Nigeria, was carried out using a questionnaire survey to determine the possible risk factors of the disease and serological method [using an Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)] to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among the inmates. The study was conducted in correctional facilities in Maiduguri, Biu and Bama local government area of Borno State. Out of a total of 300 sera tested, 49 (16.3%) had detectable ELISA antibody to HBsAg. A significant difference (p<0.001) in seroprevalence of HBsAg among inmates of different educational qualifications was observed and those with higher education had the highest prevalence (20.9%). Although there was no significant difference in prevalence of HBsAg among the different age groups, the age group 60-69 years had the highest infection rate (33.3%). Homosexuality and duration of stay in prison are shown to be significantly associated with HBsAg infection (P<0.05) among inmates. A significant gender difference was noted among inmates with the males (16.1%) having higher prevalence when compared with females (20.0%). Analysis of spatial distribution of prevalence of HBsAg showed that Maiduguri prison had (20.5%), followed by Biu prison (12.7%) and Bama prison (6.7%) and there was significant difference (P<0.05) in prevalence between prisons. There was no significant (P>0.05) association of prevalence of HBsAg with marital status or occupation of prison inmates. In conclusion, hepatitis b virus infection was found to be prevalent among prison inmates in Borno state with homosexuality and duration of stay in prison as risk factors.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Hepatitis B among Informal Caregivers at Ndola Teaching Hospital
Authors:   Copperbelt University, MicHeal CHilu fva data-8cHool of Medicine, Ndola, Zambia, SC Killard
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Hepatitis B is a highly contagious infection. It is 50 to 100 times more infectious than HIV. It is the world’s most common liver infection, which is caused by a DNA-virus, the hepatitis B virus and is transmitted between people through blood, semen, vaginal fluids and mucous membranes. Basic knowledge about hepatitis B is necessary; with more knowledge people take preventive actions against hepatitis B, such as using stick proof cannulas. The general objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of HBV infection among informal caregivers at Ndola Teaching Hospital, Ndola, Zambia. Method: A Cross sectional study was carried out at Ndola Teaching Hospital from June 2020 to September 2020. Systematic random sampling was used using questionnaire based interviews to consenting informal caregivers above the age of 18 years who were waiting for their patients in Gynecological ward, surgical wards and internal medicine wards. Results: A total number of 165 informal caregivers at Ndola Teaching Hospital were interviewed using a pretested questionnaire. The highest age group (44.2%) interviewed was between 25 to 34 years of age. The majority of informal caregivers (52.1%) went up to secondary education level and 63.0% of the informal caregivers were females. Most informal caregivers (53.3%) only had an average knowledge about hepatitis B infection. Informal caregiver’s education level was directly associated with the level of knowledge about Hepatitis B (p-value<0.001). Majority (87.3%) of the informal caregivers had good attitude towards hepatitis B. There was a direct association (p value <0.001) between informal caregiver’s knowledge on hepatitis B with their attitude. All the informal caregivers (100%) had bad practices on Hepatitis B and majority of the respondents 159 (96.4%) were not vaccinated only 6 (3.6%) were vaccinated against HBV. Conclusion: Hepatitis B is a major health problem globally casting an enormous burden on the health-care system a major source of patient’s misery. This illness or disease is preventable. In this study, the majority of the participants had good attitudes making knowledge as the main determinant of their practices. Therefore, primary prevention approach be taken by extensively and frequently teaching all informal care givers in all hospitals and clinics on how to protect themselves from the disease. Pictorial Posters depicting the proper way of handling patients by informal caregivers be displayed in health centers (wards and OPDs).
The Pivotal Role of Signal Regulatory Protein α in Exacerbating Pulmonary Fibrosis Complicated with Bacterial Infection
Authors:   Graduate School of Medical Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, Kumamoto, Japan, R Yamaguchi , A Sakamoto ,   Graduate School of Medical Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, Kumamoto, Japan, M Haraguchi ,   Graduate School of Medical Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, Kumamoto, Japan, S Narahara ,   Graduate School of Medical Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, Kumamoto, Japan, H Sugiuchi ,   Graduate School of Medical Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, Kumamoto, Japan, Y Yamaguchi ,   Graduate School of Medical Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, Kumamoto, Japan, R Yamaguchi ,   Department of Neuroscience, Kyoto University, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
Published: June 2021

The pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis remains unknown. However, bacterial infections in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis are a serious complication that exacerbate the disease. Serum levels of Surfactant Protein D (SPD) are known to be elevated in patients with pulmonary fibrosis, but the role of SPD in pulmonary fibrosis complicated with bacterial infection is unknown. Lipopolysaccharide upregulates Interleukin (IL)-12p40 expression and IL-12p40 promotes Interferon Gamma (IFNγ) production to induce the T helper cell 1 (Th1) immune response via Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription 4 (STAT4) signaling. A lack of IFNγ shifts the immune response from Th1 to Th2. IL-4 is a profibrotic Th2 cytokine that activates fibroblasts. Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor induced by IL-1 and TNFα during the Th1 immune response upregulates Signal Regulatory Protein α (SIRPα) expression. Interferon Regulatory Factor 1 (IRF1) functions as the promoter activator of IL-12p40 after stimulation with LPS. SPD is a ligand for SIRPα, and SPD/SIRPα ligation activates the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK)/Extracellular Signal-Related Kinase (ERK) signal cascade; ERK downregulates Interferon Regulatory Factor 1 (IRF1) expression. Consequently, the SPD/SIRPα signaling pathway decreases IL-12p40 production in human macrophages after exposure to LPS. IL-12p40 is a key immunoregulatory factor in bacterial infection that promotes production of IFNγ by T lymphocytes. Pulmonary fibroblasts are activated by IL-4/IL-4R ligation. IFNγ induces IRF1 via STAT1 signaling, and IRF1 acts as the promoter repressor of IL-4 to attenuate its production. IFNγ also inhibits IL-4R expression. A reduction in IFNγ induced by IL-12p40 deficiency via the SPD/SIRPα signaling pathway enhances IL-4 and IL-4R expression to augment the activity of fibroblasts. This finding indicates that pulmonary fibrosis is exacerbated by SPD/SIRPα signaling during bacterial infection.
Driver Gene Mutations and Risk of Lymph Node Metastasis in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors:   Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, Z Feiyue , Z Li ,   Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, Bing Zhang ,   Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, Benchao Chen ,   Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, Shuting Wang ,   Department of Thoracic Tumor Surgery, Yunnan Cancer Center, Kunming, China, Yu Du ,   Department of Thoracic Tumor Surgery, Yunnan Cancer Center, Kunming, China, L Gaofeng ,   Department of Thoracic Tumor Surgery, Yunnan Cancer Center, Kunming, China
Published: June 2021

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) lymph node status is closely related to its diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. The lymph node status is an important basis for formulating clinical treatment strategies of NSCLC, therefore comprehensive and profound understanding of risk factors for lymph node metastasis is essential. There are many known factors for lymph node metastasis in NSCLC, such as pathological subtypes, tumor size, tumor location. Meanwhile, whether the mutation of the driver gene affects the lymph node metastasis is still lacking enough research. This article aims to elaborate the relationship between NSCLC driver gene mutation and lymph node metastasis, from NSCLC lymph node metastasis-related risk factors, driver genes and lymph node metastasis, metastatic lymph node mutation status analysis and detection these several aspects to summarize the latest research progress in NSCLC driver gene mutation and lymph node metastasis risk. It also fully explained the correlation between driver gene mutations and NSCLC tumor biological behaviors such as lymph node metastasis.
Stem Cells Applications in Therapeutics and Site-Specific Genome Editing Through CRISPR Cas9 System
Authors:   Department of Biotechnology, University of Gujrat, Pakistan, M Mukheed , A Kha ,   Department of Biotechnology, University of Gujrat, Pakistan
Published: June 2021

Stem cells are immature cells that have ability to differentiate into all specific and mature cells in body. The two main characteristics of stem cells are selfrenewable and ability to differentiate into all mature, functional and adult cells types. There are the two major classes a) pluripotent stem cells which have potential to differentiate in all adult cell and b) multipotent stem cells which have capacity to differentiate into many adult cells but not in all cell types. Due to the self-renewable ability stem cells are used in therapeutics, tissue regeneration, disease modeling, regenerative medicines and to treat cardiovascular diseases, neural disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and most importantly to treat carcinomas. The human induced pluripotent stem cells provide a great platform to study and treatment of human diseases because these are able to differentiate into many functional and specialized adult cells of body. The genome editing tools such as CRISPR Cas9 system and TALENs are used to generate multiple DNA variants in hPSCs by inducing site specific mutations, frame shift mutation and deletion. In present days CRISPR Cas9 is more efficient and frequent method for genome editing which is derived from bacterial cell.
Involvement of Inflammation in Venous Thromboembolic Disease
Authors:   ¹Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Intensive Care, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia, P Poredos , P Poredos ,   ¹Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Intensive Care, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia
Published: June 2021

Recent evidence has been established that the inflammatory process is involved in the pathophysiology of Venous Thrombotic Events (VTE) and may have a significant role in prediction of the disease. It is likely that classical and non-classical risk factors modulate thrombosis through inflammatory mediators. Inflammation of the venous wall promotes the release of tissue factor inhibit the release of anticoagulant factors and hamper endogenous fibrinolysis. Recent studies also indicated that increased inflammatory response (interleukin storm) is related to prothrombotic state and thromboembolic events in patients with COVID-19. Inflammatory markers are also negatively related to thrombolysis and restoration of blood flow in the acute phase of Venous Thrombosis (VT). Despite the growing evidence of the involvement of inflammation in pathogenesis of VTE, the importance of anti-inflammatory treatment of this disease was overlooked. Aspirin was shown to be effective in the prevention of recurrent venous thrombosis after treatment with anticoagulant drugs. Some anti-inflammatory drugs like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents may have prothrombotic effect and increase risk of VTE. Therefore, the recent research was dedicated to searching new specific anti-inflammatory drug inhibitors of inflammatory markers, which were shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of VTE. As thrombus formation is based on the activation of coagulation system, provoked by inflammation, prevention and treatment of VTE, should include both anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory agents. To reduce bleeding complications of combined treatment, sub-therapeutic doses of both drugs should be used to improve the efficacy of management of VTE without increasing risk of bleeding.
Ethnic-racial inequity in health insurance in Colombia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Viáfara-López Carlos Augusto , Palacios-Quejada Glenda , Banguera-Obregón Alexander
Published: June 2021

Objective.Characterize the relationship between ethnic-racial inequity and type of health insurance in Colombia.

Methods.Cross-sectional study based on data from the 2019 Quality of Life Survey. We analyzed the type of health insurance (contributory, subsidized, or none) and its relationship to ethnic-racial status and predisposing variables (sex, age, marital status), demographic variables (area and region of residence), and socioeconomic variables (education, type of employment, income, and unmet basic needs) through simple and multivariate regression analyses. The association between ethnic-racial status and type of health insurance was estimated using odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals, through a multinomial logistic model.

Results.A statistically significant association was found between ethnic-racial status and type of health insurance. In comparison with the contributory system, the probabilities of being a member of the subsidized system were 1.8 and 1.4 times greater in the indigenous population (OR x 1.891; 95%CI: 1.600-2.236) and people of African descent (OR = 1.415; 95%CI: 1.236-1.620), respectively (p <0.01) than in the population group that did not identify as belonging to one of those ethnic-racial groups.

Conclusions.There is an association between ethnic-racial status and type of insurance in the contributory and subsidized health systems in Colombia. Ethnic-racial status is a structural component of inequity in access to health services and heightens the disadvantages of people and population groups with low socioeconomic status.
Equity, intercultural approaches, and access to information on traditional, complementary, and integrative medicines in the Americas
Authors: Gallego-Pérez Daniel F. , Abdala Carmen Verônica Mendes , Amado Daniel Miele , Carvalho de Sousa Islândia Maria , Aldana-Martínez Natalia Sofía , Ghelman Ricardo
Published: June 2021

Access to information and intercultural approaches in the field of health are essential for the elimination of inequities in health access and care. Intercultural models such as traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) are an important part of health care in most countries and often contribute to expanding access to primary health care. Despite legal recognition and policies to integrate TCIM into health systems, their contribution to health, well-being, and people-centered care to achieve universal health is still underestimated. This article presents the progress (2017-2020) achieved by the Virtual Health Library specialized in the TCIM (VHL TCIM Americas), an initiative created as a tool to reduce the gaps in the production and access to validated information on TCIM. Through collaborative network work, VHL TCIM Americas contributes to the democratization of health, access to verified scientific data, visibility of non-conventional knowledge, strengthening of research capacities, and exchange of experiences for informed decision-making.
Pharmacological Properties of Zinc Drugs
Authors:   OO Bohomolets National Medical University. 13, T. Shevchenko Boulevard, Kyiv 01601, Ukraine, Zaychenko G. V. , Gorchakova N. A. , Shumeiko O. V. , Klymenko O. V. , Doroshenko G. I.
Published: June 2021

The review represents data about biochemical and physiological zinc properties, its pharmacological influence. Among the trace elements, zinc is one of the most used elements in biology and medicine. Zinc preserves molecular integration, influences the growth and division of cells, is included in some enzymes. Metallothioneins bind zinc with high affinity and serve as intracellular zinc reservoir. They may release free intracellular zinc when needed and mediate physiological zinc role, maintain zinc homeostasis in brain synaptic activity. Metallothioneins are strong radical scavengers that is why zinc plays the main role in oxidative stress. It is intracellular regulator, which influences apoptosis, osteogenesis, keratogenesis, provides intracellular support to proteins during molecular integration. It is a structural component in nucleonic acids and gene regulator proteins. Zinc deficiency has been detected in neurological and psychic diseases. Zinc supplement was effective in patients with stroke and brain injury. Zinc has a positive impact on memory and reduces hyperactivity in children. Zinc is involved in signals neurotransmission. Its deficiency in brain is connected with Alzheimer`s disease, depression, schizophrenia that is why it is used for the treatment of these diseases. Vitamin C is the zinc synergist in the treatment of neurological and psychic diseases as it has antioxidant properties, takes place in detoxication. Zinc plays the important role in autistic disorders in children and is included in the pharmacotherapy of this status. Zinc deficiency leads to liver diseases, hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and gastrointestinal disturbances such as appetite loss, diarrhea, and anorexia. In chronic liver diseases, zinc corrects amino acids disbalance, capacity to synthesize albumin, metabolize ammonium. It was shown that zinc as a heavy metal has antimicrobial action in diarrheas, cholera and other gastrointestinal diseases. It was detected that zinc has antiviral effects in herpes diseases and diseases of upper respiratory ways. Conclusion. Zinc deficiency is connected with some autoimmune diseases such as asthma, eczema and other dermatological diseases. The supply of human organism with zinc and vitamins A, C, D and E is a promising approach because it is a cofactor of 118 proteins aimed at antiviral protection of the human body including interferon-1-dependent proteins against coronavirus. It was shown that zinc helps to inhibit «cytokine storm» characteristic of COVID-19, reduces chronic systemic inflammation and compensates for comorbid pathologies of cardiovascular system in patients with COVID-19. Zinc may influence other systems such as reproductive function, pregnancy, fetus, testosterone synthesis
The Effect of Tear Film Quality on Protective Properties against SARS-CoV-2 and on Further Risks of Infection in Dry Eye Disease
Authors:   VN Karazin Kharkiv National University. 4, Svobody Sq., Kharkiv 61022, Ukraine, Protsenko E. S. , Remnyova N. A. , Panchenko N. V.
Published: June 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is a new coronavirus causing global pandemic COVID-19 throughout the world, the clinical manifestations of which may include not only respiratory syndrome and systemic manifestations, but also eye symptoms. The purpose of the study. This study processed and presented to the scientific community the latest scientific evidence from the world literature regarding the effect of tear film quality on protective properties against SARS-CoV-2 and on further risks of COVID-19 infection in dry eye disease. Many studies have proven the presence of ACE2 as well as TMPRSS2 expression in the conjunctival and corneal epithelium and detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the tear fluid of infected patients, which indicates the ocular tissue tropism to the virus and its possible transmission through the ocular surface. The detection of SARS-CoV-2 in conjunctival or tear samples may depend on viral load and secretion, as well as on sampling time during the course of the disease. It has been suggested that SARS-CoV-2 is prone to exist on the surface of the eye in the early stages of conjunctivitis, and the viral load decreases after a few days. However, cases of virus detection without conjunctivitis may indicate that SARS-CoV-2 can cause latent and asymptomatic infection. With the introduction of protective anti-epidemic measures such as protective masks, the rapid increase and progression of dry eye disease has begun, which leads to decreased ocular surface immune mechanisms, and could potentially increase the risks of SARS-CoV-2 virus transmission. The mechanisms of protection of the healthy ocular surface and possible ways to combat SARS-CoV-2 were reviewed. And the potential causes of increased ocular surface infections during a pandemic were also shown. Through wearing of protective masks, there is additional dispersion of air around the eyes and accelerated evaporation of tear fluid with its thinning and rupture, which contributes to the progression of the prevalence of dry eye disease. The information confirmed by research has already appeared in the literature. This ocular surface condition has been defined by the term "MADE" – dry eye associated with wearing a mask. Dry eye disease, in turn, is a multifactorial ocular surface disease that results in tear film instability, hyperosmolar stress, and a cascade of inflammatory responses. This initiates ocular surface damage, impaired immune status, pathological apoptosis of conjunctival and corneal cells, and loss of basic protective function. Conclusion. Thus, given the obvious decrease in the immune defense mechanisms of the ocular surface in dry eye disease, which is a vulnerable place for virus penetration, this area deserves further in-depth study
Histomorphological Characteristics of the Placenta in Women with Obesity and Preeclampsia
Authors:   Poltava State Medical University. 23, Shevchenko St., Poltava 36011, Ukraine, Zelinka-Khobzey M. M. , Tarasenko K. V.
Published: June 2021

Reducing the incidence of preeclampsia is an important issue in modern obstetrics, as preeclampsia is still remaining one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. This problem is especially relevant for pregnant women with concomitant obesity, since they are at high risk for preeclampsia. Placental ischemia can result in the development of endothelial dysfunction and, as a consequence, can lead to the emergence of gestational endotheliosis, which is a leading pathogenetic segment in the preeclampsia pathogenesis. The purpose of the study is to investigate the histomorphological features of the placenta in women with physiological body weight and concomitant class II obesity in preeclampsia, who took the therapeutic and prophylactic complex, designed to prevent preeclampsia in pregnant women with class II obesity. Materials and methods. We studied 25 placenta samples from women with physiological body weight and class II obesity, whose pregnancy was complicated with the development of preeclampsia. 5 study groups were formed: group I consisted of women with class II obesity, whose pregnancy was complicated by preeclampsia; group II included women with physiological body weight, who developed preeclampsia; group III included women with class II obesity, who took the therapeutic and prophylactic complex; group IV involved women with class II obesity who did not receive the therapeutic and prophylactic complex, and group V was the control one. A comprehensive assessment of the structural characteristics of the placenta included macroscopic diagnosis, organometry and examination histology. Results and discussion. Dominant and clinically significant histological parameters of the structure of pathologically altered placental tissue from women whose pregnancy was complicated by the preeclampsia development have been found out. Pathomorphological changes in the tissue of the studied placentas and their severity indicate a significant impairment of placental circulation that initiates the development of processes of adaptation and compensation along with the lack of compensatory-adaptive reactions. Conclusion. We have revealed involutive-dystrophic compensatory processes and moderate compensatory responses within the gestational normal limits without fixing pathological morphological changes in placental tissue in placental samples from women with concomitant class II obesity, who received the therapeutic and prophylactic complex (acetylsalicylic acid, L-arginine, calcium preparations) and semisynthetic diosmin in order to prevent preeclampsia; no pathological morphological changes in placental tissue were detected. No cases of preeclampsia associated with endothelial dysfunction in pregnant women with concomitant class II obesity, who received therapeutic and prophylactic complex, proves its effectiveness in managing this cohort of patients
Relationship between the Activity of Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 and -9 in Myocardial Homogenate with Changes of the Cells Composition in the Coronary Arteries Wall in the Experiment
Authors:   Dnipro State Medical University. 9, Vernadsky St., Dnipro 49044, Ukraine, Tryasak N. S. , Kozlova Yu. V.
Published: June 2021

Matrix metalloproteinases are involved in a complex multifactorial process of atherosclerotic plaque formation and play a leading role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix components and increase the migratory activity of cellular elements of the vascular wall. Despite a number of scientific studies, it is necessary to identify clear biochemical markers for the development of atherosclerotic lesions. The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between the activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in myocardial homogenate with changes of the cells composition in the coronary arteries wall in experimental atherosclerosis. Materials and methods. The studies were performed on 76 nonlinear rats, which were divided into 3 groups: group Ia was the control (n=20) – animals, injected intracutaneously with 0.1 ml of 0.9 % sodium chloride solution; Ib – comparison group (n=20) – animals injected with incomplete Freund’s adjuvant at the dose of 0.1 ml intracutaneously and II – experimental group (n=36), which were immunized with native human low-density lipoprotein at a single dose of 200 μg, diluted in 0.1 ml of incomplete Freund’s adjuvant, regardless of the weight. The experiment lasted for 20 weeks. Material sampling was performed, starting from the 4th week after the drug administration. From the coronary arteries and the adjacent myocardium, microslides were made according to the generally accepted technique, which were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, according to the methods of Van Gizon, Mallory and Sudan III. The activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 was determined by enzyme-zimografic method. Results and discussion. The growth of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity in atherosclerotic lesions showed stages of degradation of extracellular matrix components: the dynamics of matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity during the experiment increased from 109.1±1.23 % at the 12th week to 127.32±0.99 % at the 20th week. The increased activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 was associated with an increase in the number of leukocytes and macrophages, including foam cells. The activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 reached the highest values of 98.24±0.82% at the 8th period from the onset of changes to the final level of 86.26±0.54% at the maximum terms of the experiment. Conclusion. The growing activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 indicated the development of early atherosclerotic lesions, while the high level of activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 indicated significant structural changes in the wall of the coronary arteries
REFERENCE POINT OF GEOLOGICAL TIME
Authors:   S.I. Vavilov Institute for the History of Science and Technology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Aksenov Gennady
Published: June 2021

In the earth sciences, there is a persistent contradiction between modern ideas about the age of the planet and the concept of V.I. Vernadsky about the geological eternity of life. According to Vernadsky, the absolute age of the rock indicates only the time of its last metamorphism, but not the age of the Earth. It is no coincidence that the pregeological substance of a cosmic formation of the planet has not been found. Such substance does not exist because any mineral complex and rock begins to form in the hypergenesis zone. Vernadsky argued that geological history was equal in duration to the existence of the biosphere and its duration was measured by biological time. His concept is confirmed by current biogeochemistry. The history of the biosphere practically coincided with the "canonical" age of the Earth. In a cosmological sense, the picture of the universe cannot be built without the concept of the geological eternity of the biosphere.
TERMINOLOGY OF PALEOZOIC PLACODERM FISHES (ANTIARCHI) EXOSKELETAL ELEMENTS
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moloshnikov Sergey
Published: June 2021

The terminology and morphology of plates of the posterior part of the antiarch head shield (Placodermi, Antiarchi) are discussed. The terms «zatilochnaya» and «bokovaya (kraevaya) zatilochnaya» was previously accepted in antiarch skulls and are suggested for use in Russian-language literature. These terms are more correct and clearly define a position and development of these plates in the head shield of antiarchs. The titles «zagrivkovaya (nuchalnaya)» and «bokovaya zagrivkovaya (paranuchalnaya)», recently applied to them in Russian-language literature may indicate a connection in development with an anterior part of a trunk. A similar term is used for acipenserid exoskeleton. The acipenserid «nuchalnaya kost’» is located posterior to the «verchnezatilochnaya» (after Gurtovoi), and embryonically developed in an anterior part of the trunk over basidorsals and bones of the shoulder girdle. The name «pervaya spinnaya plastinka» (first dorsal scute: after Hilton and others) is also use for this bone. The term «zagrivkovaya plastinka» is used in other vertebrate skeletons, for example, in turtles; this name denotes the unpaired element of a carapace (postcranial skeleton). Using the terms «zagrivkovaya (nuchalnaya)» and «bokovaya zagrivkovaya (paranuchalnaya)» in the morphology of antiarchs and other placoderms may lead confusion in the terminology of skeletal elements at early vertebrates, incorrect conclusion of their homology, structure and development of the head shield of these unusual fishes.
O “(re)aportuguesamento” através da cultura popular: do séc. XIX aos nossos dias
Authors: Rodrigues José
Published: June 2021

A motivação para este estudo nasceu do interesse em clarificar o desempenho do SPN (Secretariado para a Propaganda Nacional) e do SNI (Secretariado Nacional de Informação) na concretização da “Política do Espírito” através da mitificação da paisagem e dos valores culturais adulterados pelas implicações do nacionalismo. O objetivo principal consistiu na indagação da evolução da cultural popular, via etnografia e folclore, do séc. XIX aos nossos dias, servindo-nos de uma metodologia qualitativa mediante a leitura de especialistas em bibliografia física e digital. Estabelecemos um plano de trabalho com seis tópicos, destacando-se o “reaportuguesamento” no ideário estado-novista. Concluímos que a cultura popular – no âmbito do património tangível e intangível - tem servido, nos últimos 150 anos, os regimes políticos de forma díspar, alcançando, nos nossos dias, um patamar de transversalidade social.