bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short- and medium-term clinical outcomes of culture-negative and culture-positive periprosthetic joint infection
Authors: Xu Zhiyang , Cai Yuanqing , Fang Xinyu , Huang Zida , Zhang Chaofan , Li Wenbo , Zhang Wenming
Published: December 2019

Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of culture-negative periprosthetic infection (CN PJI) with those of culture-positive periprosthetic infection (CP PJI).Methods The clinical data of 77 patients with prosthetic infections were collected retrospectively. The mean follow-up time was 29.2 months (12-76 months). The remission rates of CN PJI and CP PJI were compared. The effects of the culture results on the curative effect were further compared by survival analysis. The correlations between sex, age, underlying diseases, sinus, disease course, joint involvement, surgical strategy, culture results and clinical outcomes were further analyzed by logistic regression.Results In total, there were 24 cases of CN PJI, with an incidence of 29.63%. The overall success rate of CN PJI was 86.4% (19/22),and overall success rate of CP PJI was 87.5% (42/48). There was no significant difference in the success rate between CN PJI and CP PJI. The incidence of antibiotic-related complications for CN PJI was significant higher than that for CP PJI, with 58.3% for CN PJI and 11.3% for CP PJI, respectively.Conclusion CN PJI was treated according to the strict standards for the diagnosis and treatment, and the success rate of treatment for CN PJI was similar to that for CP PJI. The incidence of antibiotic-related complications from CN PJI was higher than that from CP PJI.
Pattern of Fasting Blood Sugar, Blood Pressure and Body Mass Index among Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC) Pills Users in Chencha, Southern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kofole Zelalem , Haile Diresbachew , Solomon Yerukneh , Girma Eyayu
Published: December 2019

Background: The use of contraceptives has become prevalent among women in Ethiopia. Oral contraceptive use has been suggested to trigger changes in glucose metabolism, energy expenditure, blood pressure, and body weight, among the various populations and ethnic groups. Objective: To elucidate the pattern of fasting blood sugar (FBS), blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) among combined oral contraceptive (COC) pills users, taking into account other confounding factors including socioeconomic conditions and physical activity status. Methods: An institution based cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 110 healthy women using pills were recruited as cases. Another 110 healthy women not using any hormonal contraceptives were recruited as matched controls. A study was conducted between October 2018 and January 2019. Fasting Capillary blood sample was collected from the study participants for the estimation of the FBS level. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured and means arterial blood pressure was calculated for each participant. Body weight and height were measured to compute body mass index. Data obtained was entered and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 23 software packages. Results: FBS level in users was significantly increased compared to controls (88.55 ± 7.89 vs. 86.00 ± 9.85 in users and controls respectively, P = 0.025). There was a significant difference in mean arterial blood pressure of users compared to controls (88.2 ± 8.48 vs. 86.0 ± 6.74 respectively, P=0.04). The mean weight and body mass index of users were significantly increased (P = 0.03 and P = 0.003, respectively). Changes in mean fasting blood sugar level and mean weight of users were independent (P = 0.27 and P = 0.46) to the duration of use (3-12, 13-24 and ≥ 25 months). On the other hand, changes in mean body mass index and mean arterial blood pressure of users were dependent of the duration of use (P = 0.03 and P = 0.000 respectively). Conclusions: Overall, oral contraceptive pills use appears to cause a 2.9% increase in fasting blood glucose level, a 2.5% increase in mean arterial blood pressure and a 3.9% increase in body mass index among the users.
Assessment of government health center needs to implement long-acting reversible contraception services in rural Rwanda
Authors: Mazzei Amelia , Ingabire Rosine , Karita Etienne , Mukamuyango Jeannine , Nyombayire Julien , Parker Rachel , Tichacek Amanda , Allen Susan , Wall Kristin M
Published: December 2019

Background. There is unmet need for family planning in Rwanda. We previously developed an evidence-based couples’ family planning counseling (C)FPC program in the capital city that combines: 1) fertility goal-based family planning counseling with a focus on long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) for couples wishing to delay pregnancy; 2) health center capacity building for provision of LARC methods, and 3) LARC promotion by community health workers (CHW) trained in community-based provision (CBP) of oral and injectable contraception. From 2015-2016, this service was integrated into eight government health centers in Kigali, reaching 6,072 clients and resulting in 5,743 LARC insertions. Methods. From May-July 2016, we conducted health center needs assessments in 30 rural health centers using surveys, key informant interviews, logbook extraction, and structured observations. The assessment focused on the infrastructure, materials, and human resources needed for LARC demand creation and provision.Results. Few nurses had received training in LARC insertion (41% implant, 27% intrauterine device (IUD)). All health centers reported working with CHW, but none trained in LARC promotion. Health centers had limited numbers of IUDs (average 16.4), implants (average 56.1), functional gynecological exam tables (average 2.3), and lamps for viewing the cervix (average <1). Many did not have backup power supplies (40%). Most health centers reported no funding partners for family planning assistance (60%). Per national guidelines, couples’ voluntary HIV counseling and testing (CVCT) was provided at the first antenatal visit at all clinics, reaching over 80% of pregnant women and their partners. However, only 10% of health centers had integrated family planning and HIV services. Conclusions. To successfully implement (C)FPC and LARC services in rural health centers across Rwanda, material and human resource capacity for LARC provision will need to be greatly strengthened through equipment (gynecological exam tables, sterilization capacity, lamps, and backup power supplies), provider trainings and follow-up supervision, and new funding partnerships. Simultaneously, awareness of LARC methods will need to be increased among couples through education and promotion to ensure that demand and supply scale up together. The potential for integrating (C)FPC with ongoing CVCT in antenatal clinics is unique in Africa and should be pursued.
What is the real level of physical disability among elderly Chinese? A comparative study based on four national social surveys
Authors: Qiao Xiaochun , Chen He , Liu Yan , Wu Xiaolan
Published: December 2019

BackgroundAlong with the increasing availability of national surveys on elderly health, the real level of physical disability among elderly Chinese is still a myth due to the data incomparability. This study aims to add knowledge on this topic by improving data comparability across surveys.Methods Data were drawn from four national surveys, including Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) 2014, Sample Survey of the Aged Population in Urban/Rural China (SSAPUR) 2015, China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) 2015, and China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS) 2014. The study subjects were people aged 65 years or above living in communities. The final sample size in four surveys analyzed was between 5008 in CHARLS and 144.0 thousand in SSAPUR. Katz activities of daily living (ADL) index was used to assess physical functioning. A series of measures were taken to harmonize ADL index across surveys. The reliability and validity of index was examined with Cronbach’s alpha, confirmatory and exploratory factor analysis. A standardized physical disability prevalence was computed by applying sex and age structure in 2015 China national 1% sample survey to the crude prevalence.Results All the Katz ADL indexes in four surveys had good internal consistency with Cronbach’s alpha higher than 0.80 and good construct validity according to confirmatory and exploratory factor analysis results. After standardization, the physical disability prevalence remained significantly different across surveys, ranging from 10.21% (9.47%-10.95%) to 18.07% (17.88%-18.27%). The total number of older population with physical disability in China was between 14.68 million and 25.98 million, which was a wide range. The variation in physical disability prevalence was higher with respect to older age, rural residence, and mild disability.Conclusions Considering all the surveys have both advantages and disadvantages in assessing ADL disability, it’s difficult to conclude the best data source on this topic. We suggest that future studies on, such as elderly physical disability and long-term care need, use multiple data sources at the same time to produce robust results.
Effects of in vivo cyclic compressive loading on the distribution of local type II collagen and superficial lubricin in rat knee articular cartilage
Authors: JI XIANG , Ito Akira , Nakahata Akihiro , Nishitani Kohei , Kuroki Hiroshi , Aoyama Tomoki
Published: December 2019

Background This study aimed to examine the effects of a single episode of in vivo cyclic loading on rat knee articular cartilage (AC) in mid-term observation and investigate relevant factors associated with the progression of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Methods Twelve-week-old Wistar rats underwent one episode of 60 cycles of dynamic compression of 20 N or 50 N on their right knee joint. The spatiotemporal changes in the AC after loading were evaluated using histology and immunohistochemistry at 3 days, 1, 2, 4 and 8 weeks after loading (n=6 for each condition). The chondrocyte vitality was assessed at 1, 3, 6 and 12 hours after loading (n=2 for each condition). ResultsA localized AC lesion on lateral femoral condyle was confirmed in all subjects. The surface and intermediate cartilage in the affected area degenerated after loading, yet the calcified cartilage remained intact. The expression of type II collagen in the lesion cartilage was upregulated after loading, whereas the superficial lubricin layer was eroded in response to cyclic compression. However, the distribution of superficial lubricin gradually recovered to the normal level 4 weeks after loading-induced injury.ConclusionWe confirmed that 60 times cyclic loading exceeding 20 N could result in cartilage damage in rat knee. Endogenous repairs in well-structured joints work well with rebuilding protective layers on the lesion cartilage surface, which could be the latent factor in delaying the progression of PTOA.
Does switching to anatomically pre-contoured clavicle plates lead to fewer failures and removals than reconstruction plates? - a propensity score matched retrospective cohort study of 114 patients
Authors: Fang Christian , Liu Ruiping , Yee Dennis King Hang , Chau Jackie , Lau Tak-Wing , Chan Rebecca , Woo Siu-Bon , Wong Tak-Man , Fang Evan , Leung Frankie
Published: December 2019

Background: Plate fixation is frequently used to treat displaced midshaft clavicular fractures, however the ideal plate choice remains subject to discussion; reconstruction locking compression plates (RLCPs) are cheaper and can be easily contoured, whereas anatomically pre-contoured locking compression plates (ALCPs) are thought to provide better stability and therefore lower rates of mechanical failure. Objective: To compare the incidence of mechanical failures, functional and radiological outcomes in patients with midshaft clavicular fractures treated with ALCPs versus RLCPs. Methods: A propensity score matched retrospective cohort study was conducted across two trauma centers. 114 consecutively recruited patients with displaced midshaft clavicular fractures, who were treated with plate fixation and had a minimum follow-up of 6 months, were matched on gender, age, fracture grading, energy of injury, and fracture location. The resulting groups included 53 ALCP-treated fractures and 53 matched controls treated with RLCPs. Results: During a mean follow-up of 20.5 months, there were no implant deformities in the ALCP group whereas the RLCP group had 6 patients (11.3%, p=0.012) with implant deformities (5 occurrences of plate bending with fracture union, and 1 plate breakage with nonunion). Despite the higher rate of plate deformities in the RLCP group, there were no statistically significant differences in number of patients recovering full shoulder range of motion (ALCP 90.6%, RLCP 88.7%, p=0.751), incidence of rest pain (ALCP 13.2%, RLCP 9.4%, p=0.542), or implant removals (ALCP 49.1%, RLCP 56.6%, p=0.439). Conclusion: ALCPs may be superior to RLCPs in terms of implant stability but appear to produce similar clinical results. Keywords: anatomical plate; locking plate; clavicle fracture; plate fixation; midshaft clavicle
Comparative Study of Imaging and Pathology of Sacroiliac Joint in Normal Rats Based on IVIM-DWI and DCE-MRI
Authors: Qin Jian , Yao Qianqian , Ge Xubo , Zhu Jianzhong , Yin Zhaoliang , Li Xiaoqian , Li changqin
Published: December 2019

Background There are few reports describing the relationship between functional MRI findings and pathology of normal sacroiliac joint (SIJ). Furthermore, the pathology of SIJ is difficult to access, so animal models have special value.Aims We undertook this study to explore the relationship between parameters of Intravoxel incoherent motion(IVIM-DWI), Dynamic contract enhance(DCE-MRI) and pathology in SIJ of rats in different ages.Methods Thirty 7 week-old male wistar rats were included in the study. The parameters of IVIM-DWI and DCE-MRI in bone marrow and synovial membrane of SIJ were measured respectively at 8th, 13th, 18th, 23th, 28th and 33th weeks, then the pathological features of SIJ were gotten. One-way ANOVA were used for statistical analysis.Results The values of D in the sacrum, ilium marrow of normal rats in different age groups decreased with the increase of age, and ANOVA indicated a significant difference in D values among different age groups( P= 0.000). The normal values of D*, f, Fenh%, Senh(s -1 ) in the sacrum, ilium marrow, and the synovial membrane in SIJ of normal rats were obtained. In six groups of rats with different weeks of age, the pathology of SIJ surface was smooth and clear, the cartilage cells were intact, and no thickening or pannus formation was found.Conclusions The range of IVIM-DWI and DCE-MRI parameters of sacrum, ilium bone marrow and synovial area of joint space in normal rats were obtained. It provides a basis for further clinical study of SIJ lesions.
Statistical analysis plan for early mobilisation by head-up tilt with stepping versus standard care after severe traumatic brain injury – a randomised clinical feasibility trial
Authors: Riberholt Christian Gunge , Gluud Christian , Jakobsen Janus Christian , Ovesen Christian , Mehlsen Jesper , Møller Kirsten
Published: December 2019

Background: Early mobilisation on a tilt table with stepping versus standard care may be beneficial for patients with severe brain injury, but data from randomised clinical trials are lacking.
Methods: This detailed statistical analysis plan describes the analyses of data collected in a randomised clinical feasibility trial for early mobilisation by head-up tilt with stepping versus standard care after severe traumatic brain injury. Primary feasibility outcomes are the proportion of included participants who were randomised out of all screened patients; the proportion of participants allocated to the experimental intervention who received at least 60% of the planned exercise sessions; and safety outcomes such as adverse events and reactions and serious adverse events and reactions. Exploratory clinical outcomes are suspected unexpected serious adverse reactions; and functional outcomes as assessed by Coma Recovery Scale – Revised at four weeks; Early Functional Ability Scale and Functional Independence Measure at three months. The description includes the statistical analyses including use of multiple imputation and Trial Sequential Analysis.
Conclusions: The present statistical analysis plan serves to minimise potential trial reporting bias and selective P hacking and to improve transparency. This trial will inform the feasibility of a potential future multicentre randomised clinical trial.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02924649. Registered on 3 October 2016.
O que conhecemos de todos o cosmos?
Authors: Velten Hermano Endlich Schneider
Published: December 2019

As observações astronômicas realizadas durante o eclipse solar ocorrido em Sobral em 29 de maio de 1919 constataram que a Teoria da Relatividade Geral de Einstein corretamente predizia o fenômeno da deflexão da luz. Este grande feito coloca esta teoria em um patamar único na história da ciência, do qual nunca mais saiu. A observação de outros fenômenos astronômicos, também preditos pela teoria de Einstein, ao longo do século XX, nos fazem ter a certeza absoluta que esta é a teoria que descreve a interação gravitacional. No âmbito cosmológico, no entanto, ao aplicar as equações da relatividade geral para a dinâmica de um modelo de universo homegêneo, isotrópico e em expansão aos mais recentes dados observacionais verifica-se que apenas 5\% do universo é composto por partículas conhecidas. A natureza e origem dos restantes 95\% do conteúdo do universo, denominado de setor escuro, representa um dos grandes problemas que a ciência enfrentará no século XXI. Nosso objetivo nesse artigo é discutir sobre alguns fatos que promoveram a transição da gravitação Newtoniana para a relatividade geral e mostrar como os conceitos de matéria escura e energia escura surgiram ao longo do século XX. Com isso, seremos levados a uma visão geral do conteúdo material do universo e sua evolução dinâmica.
Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities of Different Extracts of Silybum marianum Collected from Duhok (Iraq)
Authors: MOHAMMED Falah Saleh , PEHLİVAN Mustafa , SEVİNDİK Mustafa
Published: December 2019

In this study, antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal activities of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn. collected from Duhok (Iraq) were determined. Ethanol, methanol and dichloromethane extracts of the fruit part of plant were obtained. Antioxidant potential was determined with TAS and TOS kits using ethanol extracts. Antibacterial and antifungal activity were determined using agar dilution method. Antibacterial activity was determined against 6 bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, S. aureus MRSA, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii). Antifungal activity was determined against Candida albicans, C. krusei and C. glabrata. As a result of the studies, it was determined that plant extracts have high antioxidant activity. It was also found to be effective against bacteria at 25-400 µg/mL concentrations.  Plant extracts were found to be more effective against gram negative bacteria. It was found to be effective against Candida species at 400-800 µg/mL concentrations. As a result, it was determined that the fruit parts of plant could be a natural antioxidant and antibacterial source.
OUTCOME BASED EDUCATION DALAM PENDIDIKAN KEDOKTERAN DI INDONESIA
Authors: Suryanto Yanti Ivana
Published: December 2019

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SOCIO-ECONOMIC APPROACH AS A PROMISING INTERVENTION TO REDUCE LEPROSY-RELATED STIGMA
Authors: Kristiansari Anindya Rahadyani
Published: December 2019

The context of the journal is about people with leprosy-related stigma have low self-esteem not only because their physical impacts such as deformity and the color of their skin, but also their psychological aspect like negative feeling and emotion about their body. In social aspect, they may feel rejection, discrimination, loneliness, and fear to interact with others. Further more, they may loose their job and make financial disruption. In this journal intervention research, the researchers have a goal to make a better life for people with leprosy and dissolve the stigma.
Twine como herramienta digital para el desarrollo de la competencia lingüística y literaria en el marco de la Educación Superior
Authors: Elías González Cristina I. , Rodríguez Rodríguez María Nayra
Published: December 2019

El siguiente artículo presenta un estudio de campo basado en la aplicación de la herramienta digital Twine, como recurso para el desarrollo de los contenidos lingüísticos y literarios en el marco de la Educación Superior. El objetivo principal de esta investigación se sitúa en ofrecer una estrategia para los profesores que quieran dinamizar sus sesiones, implementar el uso de las TIC y favorecer la adquisición de las competencias clave mediante una metodología innovadora. Los resultados que obtuvimos a partir de un cuestionario ad hoc, que realizó un total de quince alumnos, nos permitió valorar su idoneidad y reflexionar sobre los procesos de enseñanza-aprendizaje de nuestros discentes. Las conclusiones nos permiten destacar que Twine es un recurso que favorece la motivación y mejora el rendimiento académico de los estudiantes universitarios.
Análisis situacional: hacia la planificación estratégica en educación a distancia en el Tecnológico de San Luis Potosí
Authors: Valdez Martínez Ludy Magnolia , Guerrero Posadas Martin , Oliva Garza Dubelza Beatriz , Ávila Delgadillo Olivia Guadalupe
Published: December 2019

La investigación tuvo como objetivo desarrollar el análisis situacional para determinar el grado de aplicación del Modelo de Educación a Distancia y del Lineamiento de Operación desarrollados por Tecnológico Nacional de México en la Unidad de Educación a Distancia del Instituto Tecnológico de San Luis Potosí. La metodología constó de dos fases, en la fase preliminar se realizó la planeación de la metodología. En la segunda fase se diseñó la estrategia y los instrumentos, además se hizo la aplicación, procesamiento de la información y se desarrolló el informe final. Se diseñaron tres instrumentos y una lista de cotejo, las respuestas a los ítems fueron “Si” o “No”, para determinar concretamente si es una fortaleza, debilidad, amenaza u oportunidad. Los resultados identificaron los elementos y actores en los que se está aplicando correctamente el modelo y aquellos que presentan un área de oportunidad.
Antibacterial silver-diatomite nanocomposite ceramic with low silver release
Authors: Qi Xiaopeng , Chen Junwei , Li Qian , Yang Hui , Jiang Honghui , Deng Yangwu , Song Qiuhua , Liang Tongxiang
Published: December 2019

There is an urgent need for an effective and long-lasting ceramic filter for point-of-use water treatment. In this study, silver-diatomite nanocomposite ceramic filters were developed by an easy and effective method. The ceramic filters have a three-dimensional interconnected pore structure and porosity of 50.85%. Characterizations of the silver-diatomite nanocomposite ceramic filters were performed using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Silver nanoparticles were confirmed to be formed in situ in the ceramic filter. The highest silver concentration in water was 0.24 μg/L and 2.1 μg/L in short- and long-term experiments, indicating very low silver-release properties of silver-diatomite nanocomposite ceramic filter. The nanocomposite ceramics show strong bactericidal activity. When contact time with Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) of 105 colony forming units (CFU)/mL exceeded 3 h, the bactericidal rates of the four different silver content ceramics against E. coli and S. aureus were all 100%. Strong bactericidal effect against E. coli with initial concentration of 109 CFU/mL were also observed in ceramic newly obtained and ceramic immersed in water for 270 days, demonstrating its high stability. The silver-diatomite nanocomposite ceramic filters could be a promising candidate for point-of-use water treatment.
Rapid defluoridation of drinking water by calcium carbonate nanoadsorbent: characterization, adsorption studies and application to real samples’ treatment
Authors: Zawar Masooma , Nazir Rabia , Hamid Almas , Lima Eder C. , Shah Muhammad Raza
Published: December 2019

Groundwater contamination of fluoride is a serious global issue leading to its excessive intake and subsequently numerous adverse health issues. This research was designed to assess the efficiency of nanoadsorbent for removal of fluoride levels from water. For this purpose, calcium carbonate nanoparticles (average particle size 14.6 nm) were prepared and later applied for effective removal of fluoride from simulated as well as real drinking water (DW) samples collected from different areas of Lahore, Pakistan. The particles were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Physico-chemical parameters were studied in batch mode which revealed high adsorption capacity (i.e. 754.36 mg g−1) at room temperature and neutral pH within 10 min. The kinetic isotherms (general, pseudo-first, and pseudo-second order), diffusion studies (intra-particle diffusion and particle diffusion models), and adsorption models (Langmuir, Freundlich, Liu, and Redlich–Peterson) were also applied to evaluate the suitability of adsorption process. The applicability of nanoadsorbent to fluoride-contaminated real DW samples led to 98–100% efficacy of defluoridation.
A study on the differences in the flocculation of dredged slurries and the influencing mechanisms
Authors: Wu Silin , Zhu Yuyang , Zhu Wei , Shu Shi , Cui Yan
Published: December 2019

In the water treatment process of natural water bodies, a large amount of dredged slurry with high water content is generated and required for treatment. The coagulation–flocculation method can improve the efficiency of separation, and a suitable scheme is of great significance. It is unclear whether there is a significant difference in flocculation and separation of dredged slurries from different sources and which constituents dominate this process. Facing these problems, the tests were conducted for dredged sediments from 10 different sources, including rivers, lake, and ocean. Under the same flocculation conditions, the difference in the increment of particle size d10, the specific resistance of filtration, and the suspended solids (SS) of the supernatant after sedimentation are 0–4.6 times, 0–2.4 orders of magnitude, and 0–4 orders of magnitude, respectively. It was found that the main constituents in the dredged slurries, such as clay minerals, fulvic acid and humic acid, impact on flocculation and separation effects by affecting the zeta potential of the particles. However, there is no single constituent in the dredged slurry which dominates the flocculation and separation effect. When these constituents are incorporated, the zeta potential exhibited in the slurry determines the difference in flocculation and separation effects.
Technology for the development and use of electronic educational resources in the educational process of a university
Authors: Makhmutova M. V. , Senicheva E. I. , Akimova O. A.
Published: December 2019

Purpose of the study.  The aim of the work is to consider the possibility of improving the quality and accessibility of teaching and educational resources through the development and use of electronic educational resources (hereinafter referred to as EER) using the example of the module “System Design”. The article presents a solution to the problem that is of significant importance in the field of information technology implementation in education. The relevance of the research problem is determined by the fact that through the use of interactive tools in the learning process, users, as a rule, a student and an educator, can actively interact with these information tools. Interactivity implies the existence of conditions for educational dialogue, one of the participants of which is a means of informatization of education.

Materials and methods.  To solve these tasks, the general scientific system approach was used as the main one, the basis of which is to consider educational facilities as systems functioning in a certain environment, as well as methods of analysis and comparison. The study was conducted in accordance with the pedagogical conditions of student learning and the methodological requirements for the educational product. We reviewed methodological recommendations on the use of e-learning in the educational process of the university, the main regulatory documents of distance education technologies in the implementation of additional professional programs, the Moodle distance learning system, guidelines for practical exercises, as well as reference materials on the Moodle system.

Results.  The study revealed the problem of the use of electronic educational resources, their positive and somewhat negative impact on the goals and results of the educational process, as well as existing technologies for their creation. Based on the analysis of a variety of development technologies for various characteristics, a decision was made to use the LMS Moodle environment. The structure of the module “System Design” was developed, and this module was implemented in the LMS Moodle environment and tested in the educational process, it was revealed that the level of knowledge and skills mastering, as well as their possession is higher among students who studied on the electronic educational resource.

Conclusion.  Thus, the results of the study allow us to recommend the introduction of electronic educational resources in the learning process. Since the use of the presented development will not interrupt the learning process in cases where the student can not attend classes, and also contributes to improving the formation of students’ competence level.
Redo aortic root operations in late prosthetic endocarditis: clinical case series
Authors: Skopin I. , Kakhktsyan P. , Latyshev M. , Murysova D. , Kupriy T. , Zhangeriev I. , Khasigova E. , Enokyan L.
Published: December 2019

Prosthetic aortic valve endocarditis is a severe disease that quickly leads to heart failure. Owing to microorganisms and their toxins constantly entering the bloodstream, bypassing biological barriers, and hemodynamic disturbances, systemic embolism develops quite quickly, leading to sepsis and multi-organ failure. Conservative antibiotic therapy is often not effective because the infectious focus is located in the avascular zone. The presence of an implanted foreign body promotes adhesion of bacteria on the surface of the prosthetic tissue with simultaneous isolation from the action of phagocytes. Conservative treatment of prosthetic infectious endocarditis has an extremely unfavourable prognosis. Hospital mortality without operation is approximately 80%. Operations for prosthetic infectious endocarditis of the aortic valve are technically complex and require a highly qualified operating surgeon. The most difficult operations involve extension of the abscess to the aortic root, area of mitralaortic continuity and left ventricular outflow tract. In such situations, it is necessary to perform complex reconstructive operations on the aortic root, mitral-aortic continuity and left ventricular outflow tract. This study presents an overview of a series of complex redo operations on the aortic root and the ascending aorta in late prosthetic infectious endocarditis, with an analysis of the main tactical and technical aspects of the operations. Moreover, similar operations can be performed with good results by an experienced cardiac surgeon. In this case, it is necessary that prior to operation, the surgeon develops an algorithm of actions and determines 1) optimal access to the heart, 2) perfusion scheme, 3) type of implantable conduit, 4) cardiolysis performance features, 5) myocardial protection scheme and 6) features of the treatment of the infectious focus.Received 29 October 2019. Revised 19 December 2019. Accepted 23 December 2019.Funding: The study did not have sponsorship.Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest.Author contributionsDrafting the article: I.I. Skopin, P.V. Kakhktsyan, M.S. Latyshev, D.V. Murysova, T.A. Kupriy, I.A. ZhangerievCritical revision of the article: I.I. Skopin, P.V. Kakhktsyan, M.S. Latyshev, D.V. Murysova, T.A. Kupriy, I.A. Zhangeriev, E.V. Khasigova, L.Zh. EnokyanSurgical treatment I.I. Skopin, P.V. KakhktsyanDiagnostics: L.Zh. EnokyanTreatment: D.V. Murysova, T.A. KupriyAssistance in surgery: M.S. Latyshev, E.V. KhasigovaFinal approval of the version to be published: I.I. Skopin, P.V. Kakhktsyan, M.S. Latyshev, D.V. Murysova, T.A. Kupriy, I.A. Zhangeriev, E.V. Khasigova, L.Zh. Enokyan
Aortic root and aortic valve surgery: History and modernity
Authors: Komarov R. , Katkov A. , Puzenko D. , Odinokova S. , Nikolenko V.
Published: December 2019

Heart valve surgery, including aortic valve surgery, began to develop in the first half of the 20th century with the advancement of reconstructive procedures. Thereafter, the progress of science and technology led to the development of mechanical and biological prostheses, homografts and plastic materials, which continue to improve and transform. This review focuses on the historical aspects of the development of aortic root and aortic valve surgery, mentions the initial interventions and presents the contributions of Soviet and Russian surgeons to global surgery. The article will be interesting to cardiovascular surgery specialists as well as a wide range of readers who intend to learn more regarding the history of medicine and cardiovascular surgery.Received 8 November 2019. Revised 10 December 2019. Accepted 12 December 2019.Funding: The study did not have sponsorship.Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest.
What Echocardiography Can Reliably Tell Us About Our Pulmonary Hypertension Patients
Authors: Vedage Natasha A. , Vaidya Anjali
Published: December 2019

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a complex, multi-organ system disease that is broadly defined by an elevation in pulmonary artery pressures. There are key biologic differences in the pathophysiology among the different PH subgroups that warrant a targeted approach to clinical care of these patients. The complex geometry of and wide array of clinical tools to assess the right heart in PH add another layer of complexity in patient care. Echocardiography can be used as a powerful tool to discriminate among the subgroups of PH, a critical first step in evaluating a new case of PH. In this article, we will explore novel approaches using echocardiography that go beyond simply estimating pulmonary pressures and provide a readily accessible means of adding diagnostic and prognostic accuracy in the clinical setting.
Removal and Extraction of Carboxylic Acids and Non-ionic Compounds with Simple Hydroxides and Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Rodriguez Luis E.G. , Bail Alesandro , Castillo Rodolfo O. , Arízaga Gregorio G.C.
Published: December 2019

Carboxylic acids are an important natural component as a final product or intermediates for syntheses.
They are produced in plants, animals and also as products from biotechnological processes. This review presents
the use of single hydroxide particles and layered double hydroxides as alternative adsorbents to remove carboxylic
acids from liquid media. The proposal to use hydroxide particles is based on its affinity to adsorb or intercalate
carboxylic acids. Besides, the change in properties of the adsorbate-sorbate product evinces that this intermediate
can be used as a vehicle to transport and release carboxylic acids. Additional examples will also be presented
to prove that layered hydroxides are capable of removing non-ionic compounds from wine, milk and tomato.
The use of layered compounds to remove active ingredients could reduce the number of separations steps,
costs and reduce or eliminate solvents, thus encouraging the design of industrial processes of separation using
hydroxides particles.
Highly Selective Hydroiodination of Carbon-Carbon Double or Triple Bonds
Authors: Yamamoto Yuki , Kawaguchi Shin-ichi , Kodama Shintaro , Nomoto Akihiro , Ogawa Akiya
Published: December 2019

Iodine is an element that exhibits characteristic features of heavy halogen, and
several compounds containing iodine constitute important synthetic intermediates due to
synthetically easy manipulation. To utilize iodine units for organic synthesis, a highly regio-
and stereoselective introduction of iodine to versatile building blocks is significant,
and a lot of research works for the selective introduction of iodine to alkynes or alkenes
have been conducted. In this review article, we describe regio- and stereoselective hydroiodination
to multiple bonds of building blocks, and its synthetic applications as key
intermediates to construct several important compounds in organic chemistry.
Medicinal Plants in the Treatment of Peptic Ulcer Disease: A Review
Authors: Ardalani Hamidreza , Hadipanah Amin , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: December 2019

:

Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) is the most common disorder of the stomach and duodenum, which is associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. PUD occurs due to an imbalance between offensive and defensive factors and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI), Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics are frequently used for the treatment. Recently, medicinal plants have emerged as efficacious, safe and widely available alternative therapies for PUD. The aim of this review was to study the medicinal plants and phytochemicals, which have been used for PUD treatment to evaluate the potential role of natural compounds to develop herbal remedies for PUD. Information was obtained using a literature search of electronic databases, such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, Sci Finder, Reaxys and Cochrane. Common and scientific names of the plants and keywords such as ‘peptic ulcer’, ‘gastric ulcer’, ‘stomach ulcer’ and ‘duodenal ulcer’ were used for search. Eventually, 279 plants from 89 families were identified and information on the plant families, part of the plant used, chemical constituents, extracts, ulcer model used and dosage were abstracted. The results indicated that most of the anti-PUD plants were from Asteraceae (7.1%) and Fabaceae (6.8%) families while flavonoids (49%), tannins (13%), saponins (10%) and alkaloids (9%) were the most common natural compounds in plants with anti-PUD activity.
Association Between Mean Platelet Volume and Hemorrhagic Transformation in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Wang Changyi , Wang Lu , Deng Linghui , Qiu Shi , Zhang Shihong , Liu Ming , Wu Bo
Published: December 2019

Background:

Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) is a frequent complication of acute
ischemic stroke (AIS). Mean platelet volume (MPV) is a marker of platelet function. The relationship
between MPV and HT remains unclear.

Methods:

From January 1st, 2012 to December 31st 2016, we consecutively enrolled AIS patients
admitted to the Department of Neurology of West China Hospital. MPV was measured on admission.
HT was diagnosed by brain imaging and classified into hemorrhagic infarct (HI) and parenchymal
hematoma (PH). Moreover, subjects were divided into tertiles according to MPV levels.
Confounders were identified by univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression was performed
to explore the association between MPV and HT as well as HT subtypes. Also, a generalized
additive model was used to investigate whether a non-linear association existed between MPV and
HT.

Results:

A total of 783 AIS patients were included. 63 patients (8.0%) developed HT: 34 (4.3%)
HI and 29 (3.7%) PH. It was observed that MPV positively correlated with HT. After adjustment
for confounders, patients in the highest MPV tertile had a significantly increased risk of HT compared
to patients in the lowest tertile (odds ratio 2.3, 95% confidence interval 1.0-5.4, P=0.04).
The risk of HT increased step-wise across MPV tertiles (P for trend=0.04). MPV tertiles significantly
correlated with HI rather than PH. The generalized additive model demonstrated a nonlinear
association between MPV and HT (P=0.02).

Conclusion:

The risk of HT increased with increasing MPV level in a dose-dependent manner.
Patients with elevated MPV levels were more likely to develop HI rather than PH.
Cardiovascular Disease in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Recent Data on Epidemiology, Risk Factors and Prevention
Authors: Kostopoulou Myrto , Nikolopoulos Dionysis , Parodis Ioannis , Bertsias George
Published: December 2019

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is associated with increased risk for accelerated atherosclerosis and cardiovascular (CV) events including coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular and peripheral artery disease. CV events occur both early and late during the disease course, with younger patients being at much higher risk than age-matched counterparts. The risk cannot be fully accounted for by the increased prevalence of traditional atherosclerotic factors and may be due to pathophysiologic intermediates such as type I interferons and other inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, activated granulocytes and production of extracellular chromatin traps, antiphospholipid and other autoantibodies causing dysfunction of lipoproteins, altogether resulting in endothelial injury and pro-atherogenic dyslipidaemia. These mechanisms may be further aggravated by chronic intake of prednisone (even at doses <7.5 mg/day), whereas immunomodulatory drugs, especially hydroxychloroquine, may exert antiatherogenic properties. To date, there is a paucity of randomized studies regarding the effectiveness of preventative strategies and pharmacological interventions specifically in patients with SLE. Nevertheless, both the European League Against Rheumatism recommendations and extrapolated evidence from the general population emphasize that SLE patients should undergo regular monitoring for atherosclerotic risk factors and calculation of the 10-year CV risk. Risk stratification should include diseaserelated factors and accordingly, general (lifestyle modifications/smoking cessation, antihypertensive and statin treatment, low-dose aspirin in selected cases) and SLE-specific (control of disease activity, minimization of glucocorticoids, use of hydroxychloroquine) preventive measures be applied as appropriate. Further studies will be required regarding the use of non-invasive tools and biomarkers for CV assessment and of risk-lowering strategies tailored to SLE.
A New Perspective on the Relation Between Obesity and Knee Osteoarthritis: Omentin
Authors: Gundogdu Gulsah , Gundogdu Koksal , Miloglu Fatma Demirkaya , Tascı Seymanur Yılmaz
Published: December 2019

Objective:

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is defined as a chronic degenerative joint disease.
Obesity is a significant risk factor for KOA. Omentin is an adipose tissue-induced adipokine. The
aim of the present study was to investigate the correlation between obesity and serum omentin levels
in patients with KOA.

Methods:

This study included 60 patients with KOA, 34 obese individuals (O-KOA) and 26 nonobese
individuals (NO-KOA) and 40 controls, 17 obese individuals (OC) and 23 nonobese individuals
(NOC) matched in terms of age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) who were recruited from the
same polyclinic. Blood samples and knee radiographs were obtained from all the subjects, and
clinical features, BMI, and laboratory parameters were recorded. The Kellgren–Lawrence (KL)
grade and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) index were used
to classify the radiographic and clinical findings, respectively. Serum omentin levels were determined
using an ELISA.

Results:

Serum omentin levels in patients were significantly lower than those in the controls (p <
0.05). When the BMI values and KL scores were considered, serum omentin levels significantly
decreased in severe O-KOA versus in mild-to-moderate O-KOA. There was no statistically significant
decrease in severe NO-KOA versus mild-to-moderate NO-KOA. There was a significant negative
correlation between the serum omentin level and BMI and WOMAC index. All findings were
supported by a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Conclusions:

Serum omentin levels were inversely related to obesity and the severity of KOA. The
data indicate that omentin may be a new biomarker of KOA to our knowledge and may aid the diagnosis
of early-stage O-KOA, if our findings are supported by further studies involving much
more samples.
Chemical Properties and Therapeutic Potential of Citral, a Monoterpene Isolated from Lemongrass
Authors: Sharma Sandeep , Habib Shagufta , Sahu Debasis , Gupta Jeena
Published: December 2019

Background:

Citral is one of the main components of lemongrass oil present at a concentration
of 65-85% approximately and is generally separated by steam refining. It is an important
component in the manufacturing of scents, citrus chemicals, cosmetics, food and pharmaceutical
products.

Objectives:

This article aims at reviewing the published literature to highlight the metabolism, extraction
strategies and therapeutic significance of citral for improving the scope of its application
in the food and pharma industry.

Discussions:

Apart from steam refining, there are other techniques like solvent extraction, supercritical
fluid extraction and ultrasonication by which citral can be extracted and the method of extraction
defines its quality. It is an unstable molecule and undergoes rapid deterioration on exposure
to air. Citral is biosynthesized by the plants through the 5 carbon precursor isopentenyl
diphosphate (IPP) units utilizing two diverse biochemical pathways, acetate– mevalonate (acetate–
MVA) pathway or 2C-methylerythritol-4-phosphate (MEP). Orally Citral was absolutely digested
in the gastrointestinal tract and its metabolism leads to the discharge of metabolites which include
a number of acids and a biliary glucuronide. There is no scientific evidence about the long term
bioavailability of citral in the body and it has no adverse effect on tissue related to its accumulation
and delayed excretion. Citral exhibits various important therapeutic properties like antimicrobial,
antioxidant, anticancer, anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory.

Conclusions:

Citral is a potent biomolecule with various important biological activities and
therapeutic implications. Strategies are required to increase the stability of citral which could
increase its applications.