bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different Gastrointestinal Microbiota Related to Bile-Acid Metabolism in Hypertensive Patients With or Without Nephropathy
Authors: LI XIN , WANG LI , MA SHAOJUN , LIN SHAOHUI , WANG CHUNYAN , WANG HAIYA
Published: January 2021

Background: The human microbiome is a mixed group of microorganisms and has been verified the relationship between gastrointestinal microbiota and blood pressure. The intestinal microbiota of chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients in the distribution of bacterial species is different from the flora of people with no CKD. The purpose of this research is to study on the different intestinal microbiota of hypertensive patients with and without nephropathy and to find possible bio-markers to diagnose hypertensive nephropathy, as well as one of the basis for hypertensive nephropathy or CKD clinical intervention treatment.

Methods: The study subjects were divided into three groups, normal control, simple hypertension and hypertensive nephropathy. Sequencing, bioinformatics and statistical analysis were performed on the 16S rRNA gene of the flora of the subjects' stool samples.

Results: This research shows the difference of intestinal flora in hypertension patients with and without nephropathy; it investigates the relationship of the differences in the intestinal microbiota with bile-acid metabolism; it also explores bile-acid metabolism mechanism of intestinal microbiota differences of hypertensive with or without nephropathy.

Conclusions: The different gastrointestinal microbiota is related to bile-acid metabolism in hypertensive patients, and can be one of the factors causing CKD.

Trial registration: This article does not report the results of a health care intervention on human participants.
Antibiotic Resistance and Virulence Profiles of Gram-Negative Bacteria Isolated from Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta Caretta) of the Island of Maio, Cape Verde
Authors: Fernandes Matilde Costa , Grilo Miguel L. , Cunha Eva , Carneiro Carla , Tavares Luís , Patino-Martinez Juan , Oliveira Manuela
Published: January 2021

Background: Several studies detected high levels of antibiotic-resistance in loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) and pointed this species as prime reservoirs of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and carriers of potentially pathogenic bacteria. This study aimed to characterize, for the ﬁrst time, the Gram-negative aerobic microbiota of the Cape Verdean loggerhead subpopulation. Cloacal, oral and egg content swab samples from 33 nesting loggerheads (n = 99) of the Island of Maio were analysed regarding the presence of Gram-negative bacteria and their antibiotic resistance and virulence proﬁles. Results: Shewanella putrefaciens (27.78%), Morganella morganii (22.22%) and Vibrio alginolyticus (22.22%) were the most prevalent species isolated from the animals under study. A low incidence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (26%) was detected, and no multidrug-resistant isolates were identiﬁed. Non-Enterobacteriaceae isolates presented the most complex virulence proﬁles, revealing the ability to produce hemolysins (100%), DNases (89%), lipases (79%), proteases (53%), lecithinases (21%), gelatinases (16%), and also bioﬁlms (74%). Moreover, higher virulence indices were obtained for turtles with high parasite intensities compared with apparently healthy animals, and a positive correlation between antibiotic resistance and virulence was observed. Conclusions: Results suggest that this loggerhead population may be less exposed to antimicrobial compounds, probably due to the low anthropogenic impact observed in both their nesting (the Island of Maio) and foraging sites. Nevertheless, the presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria expressing virulence factors may threat both sea turtles’ and humans’ health.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Prevalence of bla and qnr Genes in Salmonella Enterica Isolated from Slaughtered Pork
Authors: Calayag Alyzza Marie B. , Widmer Kenneth W. , Rivera Windell L.
Published: January 2021

Background: Salmonella enterica is known as one of the most common foodborne pathogens worldwide. While salmonellosis is usually self-limiting, severe infections may require antimicrobial therapy. However, increasing resistance of Salmonella to antimicrobials, particularly fluoroquinolones and cephalosporins, is of utmost concern. The present study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial susceptibility of S. enterica isolated from pork, the major contributor in Philippine livestock production.Results: Our results show that 61.2% of the isolates carried antimicrobial resistance genes qnrS and blaTEM. While qnrA (12.9%) and qnrB (39.3%) were found less frequently, co-carriage of blaTEM and one to three qnr subtypes was observed in 45.5% of the isolates. Co-carriage of blaTEM and blaCTX-M was also observed in 3.9% of the isolates. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that majority of the isolates were non-susceptible to ampicillin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, and 13.5% of the isolates were multidrug-resistant.Conclusions: High prevalence rates of S. enterica carrying antimicrobial resistance genes (ARG), specifically the presence of isolates co-carrying resistance to both ß-lactams and fluoroquinolones, raise a concern on antimicrobial use in the Philippine hog industry and on possible transmission of ARG to other bacteria.
Myofascial trigger-point compression therapy as an adjunct to exercise program is superior in alleviating chronic low back pain compared to exercise program alone- A retrospective non-randomized study.
Authors: Masarwa Rawan , Uri Ofir , Peled Givon , Laufer Gil , Gutman Gabriel , Behrbalk Eyal
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Current guidelines for the treatment of low back pain (LBP) endorse physical exercise programs and a range of non-pharmacological complementary therapies. Myofascial trigger points (MTP) compression therapy is a well-established form of manual therapy, which aims to induce temporary ischemia and over-stimulation of mechanoreceptors over a desired area in order to restore tissue normal functional conditions required for healing response. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effect of MTP compression therapy as an adjunct to active exercise program in alleviating chronic non-specific low back pain.Methods: One-hundred and three patients with chronic non-specific LBP were retrospectively reviewed, 45 of them were treated with MTP compression therapy as an adjunct to physical exercise program and 58 were treated with exercise program alone. Pain and functional scores were compared before initiating treatment and at 3-month follow-up. Results: Pain reduction at 3-month follow-up was 5.6 points (0-10 numerical scale) in the combined treatment group compared to 3.6 points in the exercise program alone group (p<0.01). Oswestry Disability Index improved by 36 and 22 points respectively (p<0.01) and SF-12 life quality score improved by 41 and 29 points respectively (p<0.01). Conclusions: Myofascial trigger points compression therapy as an adjunct to active exercise program provides superior pain and disability relief compared to active exercise program alone for patients with chronic LBP.
Candidate Genes and Stable QTL for Grain Yield and Seed Size in Durum Wheat
Authors: Mangini Giacomo , Blanco Antonio , Nigro Domenica , Signorile Massimo Antonio , Simeone Rosanna
Published: January 2021

Background: In wheat grain yield is expressed as the product of different components. Among these, thousand kernels weight (TKW) reflects the combination of several grain related traits including grain length (GL), grain width (GW) and area. Grain weight is also affected by phenological traits, such as heading time (HT) and plant height (PH). To detect stable QTL and candidate genes involved in phenotypic control of grain yield, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from two elite durum wheat cultivars (Liberdur and Anco Marzio) was evaluated for yield components and grain related traits for three growing seasons in southern Italy. The mapping population was genotyped with a 90K SNP array and a high-density genetic linkage map with 5134 markers was obtained.Results: A total of 30 QTL were detected on the durum RIL population including 9 stable QTL for TKW (2 QTL), GL, GW (2 QTL), AREA, HT and PH (2 QTL) distributed on 1B, 2A, 3A and 6B chromosomes. Interestingly, a QTL cluster mapped on 2A included a major QTL for HT explaining at least 70% of phenotypic variance and co-located with a QTL for YLD, TKW, GL and GW and AREA, respectively. In the physical position of this QTL cluster a photoperiod sensitivity gene (Ppd-A1) was found. Serine carboxypeptidase, Big Grain 1 and β-fructofuranosidase candidate genes were mapped in clusters containing stable QTL. Candidate genes involved in auxin metabolism were also found in QTL clusters in which a QTL for AREA was declared. Conclusions: This study showed that yield components and phenological traits had higher inheritances than grain yield, allowing an accurate stable QTL cluster detection. This was a powerful requisite to physically map QTL on the reference durum wheat genome and to identify candidate genes strongly affecting the genetic grain yield network.
Prenatal exposure to consumer product chemical mixtures and size for gestational age at delivery
Authors: Bommarito Paige A , Welch Barrett M. , Keil Alexander P , Baker George P , Cantonwine Dave E , McElrath Thomas F , Ferguson Kelly K.
Published: January 2021

Background: While fetal growth is a tightly regulated process, it is sensitive to environmental exposures that occur during pregnancy. Many commonly used consumer products contain chemicals that can disturb processes underlying fetal growth. However, mixtures of these chemicals have been minimally examined. We investigated associations between prenatal exposure to 33 consumer product chemicals (nine organophosphate ester flame retardant [OPE] metabolites, 12 phthalate metabolites, and 12 phenols) and the odds of small- or large-for-gestational age (SGA and LGA) births.Methods: This case-control study was comprised of SGA (N = 31), LGA (N = 28), and appropriate for gestational age control (N = 31) births selected from the larger LIFECODES cohort. Biomarkers of exposure to consumer product chemicals were quantified in maternal urine collected from up to three study visits during pregnancy. In a single-pollutant approach, odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of SGA and LGA associated with an interquartile range (IQR)-increase in exposure biomarkers were estimated using multinomial logistic regression. In a multi-pollutant approach, quantile g-computation was used to jointly estimate the OR (95% CI) of SGA and LGA per simultaneous one quartile-change in all biomarkers belonging to each chemical class. Results: Among the 33 biomarkers analyzed, 20 were detected in at least 50% of the participants. After adjusting for potential confounders, we observed reduced odds of LGA in association with higher urinary concentrations of several exposure biomarkers. For example, an IQR-increase in the OPE metabolite, diphenyl phosphate, was associated with lower odds of LGA births (OR: 0.40 [95% CI: 0.18, 0.87]). Using quantile g-computation, we estimated lower odds of an LGA birth for higher OPE metabolite concentrations (OR: 0.49 [95% CI: 0.27, 0.89]) and phthalate metabolite concentrations (OR: 0.23 [95% CI: 0.07, 0.73]). Associations between consumer product chemicals and SGA were largely null. Conclusions: Joint exposure to OPEs and phthalates was associated with lower odds of delivering LGA. Associations with LGA could indicate a specific impact of these exposures on the high end of the birth weight spectrum. Future work to understand this nuance in the associations between consumer product chemical mixtures and fetal growth is warranted.
The observed thermal anomaly as an earthquake Precursor: A case study from the 1993 Latur earthquake prone area in Western India
Authors: Dimri Vijay P , Padhy Simanchal , Mondal N C , Reddy G K , Ramacharyulu G G. , Singh V S , Sonkamble S , Shanker C
Published: January 2021

We report and discuss monitoring of short-term variations of widely used multi-geophysical parameters in Latur-Killari area in western India, the region that witnessed a major devastating earthquake in 1993. An abnormal rise in atmospheric temperature of more than 20°C at 11200 m height was observed in the air-flight just 100 km away from Latur during a monsoon period. We investigated the cause of such abnormal rise in temperature in relation to the seismicity of the area for the 1993 Latur earthquake along with the continuous monitoring of ground water level and soil Helium gas for a week under a precursory 'quick please' operation in the study area. There were no seismic signals associated with this precursor rise that led to the suspension of the operation after a week time. It is also observed that this thermal anomaly is not followed by any major earthquake over the area, which has larger implications in atmosphere research area, suggesting a detailed investigation of such anomaly that may provide a better insight into the precursory behavior of the observed thermal anomaly by overcoming the constraints of accurate retrieval of temperature due to inadequate penetration of Satellite based thermal sensor into thick clouds. Findings of this study certainly call for continuous monitoring of temperature over the earthquake prone areas to gain insight into the physics of short-lived variation in temperature over spatially limited extent, especially over the earthquake prone areas for improved seismic hazard assessment.
Rootstock Affects Scion Nutrition and Fruit Quality during Establishment and Early Production of ‘Honeycrisp’ Apple
Authors: Valverdi Nadia A. , Kalcsits Lee
Published: January 2021

‘Honeycrisp’ apple is susceptible to bitter pit, which is associated with fruit mineral nutrient composition. Rootstock genotypes can affect nutrient acquisition, distribution, and fruit yields, which all affect fruit nutrient composition and bitter pit susceptibility. However, the changes of these traits among different rootstock genotypes in response to abiotic stress under semiarid conditions are relatively unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of different rootstocks and irrigation on nutrient uptake and partitioning with ‘Honeycrisp’ apple grown in an irrigated, semiarid environment. ‘Honeycrisp’ apple trees were grafted on four different rootstocks, Geneva 41 (‘G.41’), Geneva 890 (‘G.890’), M.9-T337 (‘M.9’), and Budagovsky 9 (‘B.9’), and these were planted at high density (3000 trees/ha). Irrigation was applied as either a water-limited treatment where volumetric soil water content was maintained near 50% field capacity (FC) and a well-watered control where soil water content was maintained near 100% FC. ‘G.890’, the most vigorous rootstock, had lower nitrogen and higher potassium content in leaves, while ‘B.9’, the least vigorous rootstock, had lower potassium and higher nitrogen content. Rootstock genotype did not affect calcium uptake. Interestingly, water-limited conditions increased the nutrient content in root and stems but not in leaves. Water-limited trees partitioned more nitrogen and calcium to roots, while well-watered trees in the control partitioned more nutrients to the stems. Fruit size was the largest for ‘G.890’ and smallest for ‘B.9’. Both ‘G.41’ and ‘G.890’ had higher bitter pit incidence, which was associated with higher potassium content in leaves and fruit. These results suggest that rootstock-induced vigor and irrigation can both contribute to nutrient imbalances in leaves and fruit that could affect the development of physiological disorders in ‘Honeycrisp’ apple.
Comparison of Various Techniques of Anesthesia for Surgical Management of Diabetic Foot
Authors: Kapil S. Divekar  , Karishma D. Mehta  , Mehta Pancham , Payal P. Prajapati  , Mehta Kamla H.
Published: January 2021

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a multisystem disease caused by an absolute or relative deficiency of insulin secretion or resistance or a combination of both. Anesthesia in them is of special concern because of complex polypharmacy, an inappropriate dose of oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin and errors in converting IV insulin to usual medication. The objective is to compare the various techniques of anesthesia for surgical management of diabetic foot in terms of intraoperative hemodynamic stability, perioperative problems related to anesthesia techniques, postoperative analgesia. Subjects and Methods: Sixty adult diabetic patients of both gender of ASA grade II-III, aged 35years undergoing surgical management of diabetic foot were elected and separated into three groups, Group A: general anesthesia with tracheal intubation, Group B: unilateral spinal anesthesia with injection 0.5% bupivacaine heavy 1.5ml (7.5mg), Group C: popliteal nerve block via lateral approach by injecting 30 ml 0.5% bupivacaine. Parameters like pulse rate, mean arterial blood pressure, respiratory rate and SpO2 were recorded at regular intervals. Postoperative pain, perioperative side effects, complications and problems related to anesthetic techniques were noted. The analysis is done by unpaired t-test and chi-square test. Results: Group C patients were hemodynamic stable than Group A and B. Post-op analgesia was prolonged in Group C. Perioperative side effects were more found in Group A. Conclusion: Popliteal nerve block and unilateral spinal anesthesia provide better hemodynamic stability and postoperative analgesia with negligible side effects as compared to general anesthesia for surgical management of diabetic foot.
Betamethasone Versus Ketamine for Attenuation of POST in Patients Undergoing Surgeries Under GA with Endotracheal Intubation- A Clinical Study
Authors: S. Ankalagowri Sankardevar  , N R Arjun  , Hegde Uthkala B
Published: January 2021

Background: Postoperative sore throat is one of the most common complications after endotracheal intubation. The present study was conducted to assess the role of betamethasone gel applied over the endotracheal tube cuff for attenuation of POST in patients undergoing surgeries under GA with endotracheal intubation and compare it with ketamine nebulization. Subjects and Methods : This is a randomized controlled prospective study conducted in 90 patients of either sex between 18-70 years of age divided into three groups. Group I patients received ketamine 50 mg, group II received 3 ml of water soluble 0.05% betamethasone gel, group III received 3 ml of water soluble 2% lignocaine. POST was graded on a four-point scale (0–3); 0 = no sore throat; 1 = mild sore throat (complains of sore throat only on questioning); 2 = moderate sore throat (complains of sore throat on his/her own); 3 = severe sore throat (change of voice or hoarseness, associated with severe throat pain). Results: The mean duration of surgery in group I was 128.5 minutes, in group II was 131 minutes and in group III was 134.5 minutes. There were 6 (20%), 7 (23.3) and 14 (46.6%) cases in group I, II and III respectively. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). At 0 hour there were 3 cases in group I, II and 10 in group III, at 2 hours was 3, 5 and 12 in group I, II and III respectively, at 6 hours was 5,4 and 14 cases in group I, II and III respectively, at 12 hours was 3, 3 and 12 cases in group I, II and III respectively and at 24 hours was 2, 2 and 12 cases in group I, II and III respectively. Conclusion: Authors found that POST can be equally managed with nebulisation with ketamine preoperatively and application of betamethasone gel over endotracheal tube cuff.
Usefulness of 0.5% Hyperbaric Bupivacaine with Dexmedetomidine on Spinal Anaesthesia in Lower Limb Orthopaedic Patients
Authors: N R Arjun  , Nischala Reddy G  , K. Narayana Prasad  , Uthkala B Hegde
Published: January 2021

Background: The present study was conducted to assess the usefulness of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine with dexmedetomidine on spinal anesthesia in lower limb orthopedic patients. Subjects and Methods: This study involved 50 patients with ASA Grade I and II of both genders. Patients were randomly allocated into group I (n=25) Patients received Dexmedetomidine 0.5 µ g/kg over 15 minutes using an infusion pump 20 minutes prior to SAB and group II (n=25) Intraoperatively HR, BP and SpO2 were measured and noted. Results: The mean heart rate at baseline was 80.00 8.49 in group I and 81.80 8.74 in group II. The mean heart rate at 5 minutes was 73.80 13.38 in group I which was significantly higher (p=0.02) compared to 65.63 12.45 in group II. The mean arterial pressure at baseline was 97.64  5.24 in group I and 97.73  6.96 in  group II suggesting MAP in both groups was comparable. The MAP at 5 minutes was 90.73 14.65 in group I which was significantly higher (p=0.01) compared to 81.22 11.64 in group II, suggesting a greater fall from the baseline in group II compared to group I. The MAP in both groups was found to be comparable at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105, 120 minutes (p>0.05). The oxygen saturation in both groups was found        to be comparable at all time intervals. The duration of onset of sensory blockade (Time is taken to reach T10 level) in 53.33% of patients in Group I is between 1 to 2 minutes (60 to 120 seconds) and less than 1 minute (60 seconds) in 46.67% of patients. The average mean time and standard deviation of onset of sensory blockade in Group I is 66 44.14 seconds. Conclusion: Authors found that dexmedetomidine was given intravenously as premedication before spinal anaesthesia using injection bupivacaine results in a quicker onset of analgesia, prolonged duration of sensory, motor block and well balanced hemodynamic parameters.
Study on Histomorphological Findings in Placenta in Cases of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension
Authors: Kumari Rekha , Choudhary Nakul , Prasad Rashmi
Published: January 2021

Introduction: PIH is a common condition associated with changes in placenta. It leads to increased perinatal mortality. The present study was conducted to assess the morphological and histopathological changes in placenta in cases of pregnancy induced hypertension. Subjects and Methods: The present comparative study included 49 cases of PIH and 49 normotensive mothers. Clinical details and placental morphology were noted. Results: That the two groups are similar with no significant difference. Placental weight and diameter were similar in PIH and control groups (p>0.05). However, placental thickness and number of cotyledons were greater in PIH group (p=0.00) while placental volume was lower with significant difference (p=0.01). PIH group showed greater proportion of infarction, calcification, hyalinised area per 10 lpf and intervillous haemorrhage (p=0.00). Conclusion: PIH leads to gross and microscopic changes in placental morphology.
Role of Morphometry of Placenta in Determination of Birth Weight of Fetus in Hypertensive Mothers
Authors: Yousuf Begum  , Syeda Ayesha Fatima  , Syeda Khadija Fatima
Published: January 2021

Background: The present study was conducted to assess the association of morphometry of the placenta and birth weight of fetus in hypertensive mothers. Subjects and Methods: The present study was conducted on 74 pregnant women with an uncomplicated pregnancy and those with pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH). The following morphometric parameters of each placenta were recorded: weight, volume, thickness, transverse diameter, and shape. Gestational age of mothers, sex and birth weight of newborns were recorded. Results: The majority of male babies with weight > 2500 grams had > 37 weeks of gestational age and the majority of female babies with weight >2500 grams had >37 weeks of gestational age. The mean weight of placentae in male babies was 416.7 grams, the mean surface area was 226.5 sq cm, mean volume was 372.2 ml and mean thickness were 2.04 cm. while the mean weight of placentae in female babies was 407.5 grams, the mean surface area was 220.4 sq cm, mean volume was 354.6 ml and mean thickness was 2.10 cm. Statistics show that the highest sensitivity and specificity for determining the low birth weight of babies in hypertensive mothers was seen with a surface area of the placenta which was 82.3% and 75.6% respectively. The positive predictive value for the weight of the placenta was 65.4%, for the surface area it was 67.8% and for the volume of the placenta, it was 64.2%. Conclusion: To conclude, it was found that placental morphometry like weight, surface area, volume and sex of the baby determined the birth weight efficiently in hypertensive mothers.
A CT Scan Study Showing Prevalence of Haller Cells in Patients with Sinonasal Complaints
Authors: Raag Reeti  , Md Jawed Akhtar  , Avanish Kumar  , Rishi Mani Srivastava
Published: January 2021

Background: Anterior ethmoid cells that extend into the maxillary sinus roof are known as Haller cells. They are commonly seen on the floor of the orbit. They may cause sinusitis symptoms by blocking the infundibulum, may get infected and also sometimes complicate the Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS). The present study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of Haller cells on CT scans in patients having sino-nasal complaints. Subjects and Methods : This was a descriptive observational study carried out on 150 patients who presented with various sino-nasal complaints and underwent a CT Scan in the Department of Radiodiagnosis, Bangur Institute of Neurosciences, Kolkata. Their CT scans were studied retrospectively for the presence of Haller cells. Radiological variations data were summarized by routine descriptive statistics namely counts and percentages for categorical variables. Fisher’s Exact Tests and were applied to calculate the ‘p’ value to find out any statistically significant difference between males and females. Results: Haller cells were found in 12% (18 cases) in the present study, 5.33% in males and 6.67% in females. ‘p’ value in this case was 0.616 on applying Fisher’s Exact test. Conclusion: Anatomical variations of the paranasal sinus region like Haller cells are quite common and they must be searched for by the surgeons planning any endoscopic sinus surgery. This study attempted to provide the prevalence of the Haller cells in Eastern India which will definitely help the FESS surgery and its outcomes.
Morphology and Anthropometry of Rhomboid Impression of Clavicle and its Clinical Applications – A South Indian Population Study
Authors: K.V. Sarala Devi  , Sulochana Sakthivel
Published: January 2021

Introduction: The medial end of clavicle is connected to the upper surface of anterior end of first rib and its costal cartilage by rhomboid ligament which assist the movements of pectoral girdle as well as resist the pull of medial end of clavicle by pectoralis major and sternocleidomastiod muscles. Consequently, the attachment of it on the clavicle produces various patterns like tubercles, grooves, etc. called as the rhomboid impression. This normal variant of rhomboid impression may be interpreted sometimes as pathological lesions like necrosis, osteomyelitis, and tumour. Also, the morphology of rhomboid impression varies in different population. Such study in South Indian population is very much sparse and so this study is planned for. The objective is to it is aimed to estimate the prevalence of various morphology of rhomboid impression, to measure the anthropometry of impression and the distance from the medial end of impression to medial end of clavicle. Subjects and Methods: This descriptive study was carried in 200 adult human dry clavicles of both sides and various patterns of rhomboid impression, anteroposterior and transverse diameter of impression and distance between the medial end of impression and medial end of clavicle was measured with digital vernier caliper. Statistical analysis was done and p-value of < 0.05 is considered to be significant. Results: The most common pattern observed was depression and rough (29%) followed by elevated and rough (28.5%). The resection length of the medial end of clavicle was 11 mm from the medial end of impression to medial end of clavicle. Conclusion: The findings of the present study on the morphology and anthropometry of rhomboid impression of adult human clavicles and the resection length of medial end of rhomboid impression from the medial end of clavicle will provide guidance for the anthropologists, orthopedicians, radiologists, vascular surgeons and in forensic investigations.
A Morphometric Study of Adult Human Sterna from the Galloway Osteological Collection
Authors: Gonzaga Gonza Kirum  , John Kukiriza  , Gerald Tumusiime
Published: January 2021

Background: Morphometric knowledge of the sternum is of great significance in cardiac surgery as variations in sternal dimensions have been considered a risk factor for translocation of suture material during median sternotomy, leading to poor outcomes. Fatalities attributed to subnor- mal sternal thickness have also been reported during sternal biopsies. Fractures of the sternum secondary to chest injury or cardio-pulmonary resuscitation may also be influenced by sternal thickness. Elongated xiphoid process can be mistaken for an epigastric mass which can be painful on palpation. Morphometric studies of African sterna are rare. The objective is to the study sought to describe the morphometry of adult sterna from the Galloway bone collection, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda. Subjects and Methods: This study employed a descriptive cross sectional design to collect and analyze quantitative data. Eighty five dry adult sterna (75 males and 10 females) were examined at the Department of Human Anatomy, Makerere University. Data analysis at univariate and bivariate levels were performed using SPSS version 21.0 statistical software. Results:A significant difference in the average length of the mesosternum was found between males at 94.6 mm (SD 11.2) and females at 82.2 mm (SD 15.2) (P=0.002). Two cases (9.5%) presented with elongated xiphoid process and one (1.2%) with subnormal mesosternal thickness. Conclusions: Our study highlights the importance of knowledge of the sternal morphometry in sex identification, physical examination, sternal puncture and other thoracic procedures, calling for increased awareness of the findings.
DNA authentication technologies for product quality monitoring in the wine industry
Authors: Lazareva E. G. , Gilmanov Kh. Kh. , Bigaeva A. V. , Mikhailova I. Yu. , Semipyatny V. K. , Vafin R. R.
Published: January 2021

Identification of wine product authenticity is a topical question in theRussian Federation. A solution to this problem can be DNA authentication of wines, which is a technological process of product authenticity control using genetic identification of the main plant ingredient — wine grape varieties. This type of wine verification is carried out by analyzing residual amounts of Vitis vinifera L. nucleic acids extracted from cell debris of final products by molecular genetic methods. The aim of this work is the analysis of the existing methods for extraction of nucleic acids from grapes, wine raw materials and commercial wines, as well as description of the molecular genetic approaches to technical genetic identification of grape varieties and authentication of wines made from them. The obtained data suggest suitability of DNA authentication of wine products as a supplement to earlier approved analytical methods (documentary, visual, sensory, physico-chemical).
Methodological aspects of the use of dry components of chicken eggs for feeding children with phenylketonuria
Authors: Bykova S. T. , Kalinina T. G. , Bushueva T. V. , Borovik T. E.
Published: January 2021

Currently, one of the most important tasks facing science and production is the creation of functional product technologies for use in different diets of the population in order to preserve and improve health, as well as reduce the risks and consequences of various diseases, including hereditary ones, such as phenylketonuria (PKU). The All-Russian Research Institute of Starch Products develops technologies for the production of low-protein starch-based products/semi-products enriched with functional ingredients and intended for therapeutic nutrition of patients with PKU. As part of the pilot production, the production of these products is organized. Purpose of work:to justify the possibility of using dry components of chicken eggs (melange, protein, yolk) to enrich low-protein starch products (noodles, vermichel, «spider») intended for feeding children over 3 years old with phenylketonuria;evaluate organoleptic properties and efficiency of low-protein starch products enriched in hypophenylalanine diet of patients with phenylketonuria older than 3 years.
Research on the possibility of extending the shelf life of cheese raw material and heat-treated cheese by their freezing for further use in HoReCa
Authors: Sviridenko G. M. , Kalabushkin V. V. , Shishkina A. N. , Uskova E. E.
Published: January 2021

The article presents the results of a study of the regularities of changes in the functional properties and quality indicators of heat-treated cheeses made from frozen cheese raw material or frozen after thermomechanical processing for further use in HoReCa. The objects of the study were: Caliatta cheese — a semi-hard ripening cheese intended as the main raw material in the production of heat-treated cheese, as well as heat-treated «pizzacheese», subjected to freezing at temperatures of minus 14 ±2 °Cand minus 55 ±2 °Cand low-temperature storage at a temperature of minus 14 ±2 °Cfor 270 days, followed by defrosting at a temperature of 20 ±2 °C. To confirm the possibility of using the freezing technique in order to increase the shelf life of both the original cheese raw material and heat-treated cheese, their microbiological and physicochemical indicators were determined by standardized methods. Studies of structural and mechanical (rheological) properties were carried out on a Weissenberg rheogoniometer, recording changes in the elastic modulus (G’) and dynamic viscosity (h’). The length of the cheese thread, as one of the main functional properties of the «pizza-cheese», was assessed with a fork test after baking. Organoleptic characteristics were assessed by flavor, texture and appearance. Research results have shown that low-temperature storage of frozen cheese can be considered as a way to retard biological and physicochemical changes, which is a safe way to increase shelf life. Freezing cheese raw material increases the length of the cheese thread in proportion to the temperature and duration of the low-temperature storage. When obtaining heat-treated cheese from both unfrozen and frozen cheese raw material, a significant deterioration in the desired functional properties is observed. Thus, the receipt of heat-treated cheese from the original cheese raw material for further use in the production of pizza is justified only by economic feasibility. Freezing «pizza-cheese» at a temperature of minus 55 ±2 °C, made from unfrozen cheese raw material, ensures the preservation of functional properties and increases the shelf life up to 150 days.
Porosity of CHA Zeolite Driving the Formation of Polyaromatic Coke Species in the Methanol to Olefins Reaction
Authors: Florindo Bianca , Catuzo Gabriel , Martins Leandro
Published: January 2021

The pore size of the chabazite structure is exceptionally suitable for the methanol to olefins (MTO) reaction. The reaction has an induction period required for the formation of a hydrocarbon pool (HP), usually composed of aromatic compounds of different sizes. HP is alkylated by methanol and afterward cracked, leading to the formation of olefins. Despite the importance of HP, its formation and growth in size are exceedingly dependent on the porosity of the catalyst. The ideal is that the formed HP remains stable throughout the reaction because the growth in its size causes blockage of the small catalyst pores, decreasing its capacity. Herein we studied chabazite zeolites with different porosity and structure, caused by variation in the particle size and pores’ volume. Porosity influenced the formation of HP species in quantity (as revealed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)) and polymerization degree (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometer (GC-MS) analysis) and, consequently, the MTO reaction’s performance.
Morfologi Bahasa Arab: Reformulasi Sistem Derivasi dan Infleksi
Authors: Luthfan Muhammad Aqil , Hadi Syamsul
Published: January 2021

Morphology, in the study of Arabic linguistics known as the discipline ‘ilm al-ṣarf, as part of grammar which examines the internal structure of words, has an urgency to be studied in depth. Especially in the context of Arabic studies that embrace typologies of complex inflective languages. This article examines the Arabic morphological system from a modern linguistic perspective, especially on derivational and inflectional changes. The discussion begins on the conception of derivation and inflection in the view of modern linguistics, as an introduction to see the system of derivation and inflection changes in Arabic linguistics. Morphological theories of Arabic grammars, in this article developed and communicated with modern linguistic theories. From this development a new formula was produced in the study of Arabic morphology which is expected to provide a more systematic description of the understanding of the Arabic morphological system.
Improving wastewater treatment plant performance by applying CFD models for design and operation: selected case studies
Authors: Patziger M.
Published: January 2021

Hydrodynamic simulation (CFD: computational fluid dynamics) is one of the major tools for planning the reconstruction and operation of the structures in wastewater treatment plants, and its routine use is commonplace because of the cost savings and efficiency gains that can be achieved. This paper provides examples of how CFD can contribute to substantial improvements in the overall efficiency of wastewater treatment plants.The case studies presented in the paper include rarely investigated issues, such as the operation of aerated grit chambers, performance of primary settling tanks, mixing performance in oxidation ditches and return sludge control. The results show that: (1) air intake rate can be strongly decreased in most of the grit chambers, (2) optimization of the inlet geometry design of primary settling tanks is crucial, especially at high loads caused by storm events, (3) mixer performance design based on current design guidelines is often of an unnecessarily high capacity, (4) sludge recirculation rate should be optimized by CFD investigations based on secondary settling tank performance.
SHIFT LABOR AS A SOCIAL PHENOMENON: ITS PLACE IN REGIONS’ SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT AND THE PROBLEMS OF THE LEGAL REGULATION
Authors: Silin Anatoly N. , YUDASHKIN Valentin A.
Published: January 2021

This article examines the social aspects of the mobile living conditions of people living in the south of the Tyumen Region and working in the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Area. The methodological foundations of the analysis include the ideas on the social space of life, which allow revealing the place, role, meaning of interaction, and spatio-temporal movements of social actors, who have certain social positions and social connections.
Since 2005, the authors have studied the practice of rotational organization of labor in the implementation of large economic projects in Yamal, as well as in other northern and Arctic regions of Russia, the social well-being of rotational workers and their families living in the south of the Tyumen Region. Based on these studies, the authors show the lack of understanding of rotational labor as a technology for staffing economic projects, the need for its interpretation and research as a social phenomenon — a complex of interrelated social phenomena and processes in the social space of the territories of hiring and labor of shift workers, which are generated by their multilocal way of life or are its consequence. In addition, this paper authors demonstrates the insufficiency of modern regulatory and legal support of rotational work and describes the scheme of legal relations arising during its use requiring settlement.
The graduates of Kazakhstani universities through the eyes of employers
Authors: Abdirayimova Gulmira S. , Verevkin Alexey V. , Lifanova Tatiana Yu.
Published: January 2021

This article studies the employment of Kazakhstan university graduates in the professional labor market. The problem of matching the needs of employers and the interests and competencies of graduates of higher education institutions of the Republic of Kazakhstan is of great importance and yet insufficiently studied. This article aims to analyze the possibility of employment and assessment of professional training of the graduates of Kazakhstan universities from the position of employers. Using the expert survey method, the authors present the main results obtained from Kazakhstan employers on the problems of employing young specialists and defining the requirements to their qualification. 643 employers from all regions of Kazakhstan took part in the survey. The analysis showed that Kazakhstan employers in certain professions look for the graduates of higher degrees (i. e. Masters and Ph.Ds.), but most employers in this study consider the training of students at the undergraduate level sufficient to enter the labor market. The study provides an insight into the main trends in the labor market for Kazakhstani graduates and how these trends affect the skills that graduates should possess; the key characteristics that employers pay attention to when employing higher education graduates; and the skills that graduates should possess in order to be successfully employed. The conclusion is that the institutions of higher education are concerned with developing an institutional narrative that is based on building long-term strategies to enhance the development of competencies for employing graduates. Currently, there is a dual situation in the evaluation of educational programs’ performance, caused by the gap between the goals that educational institutions set and the expectations of employers. This problem remains relevant even in conditions of a sufficiently high level of employment of graduates. In other words, the demand for certain groups of specialties on the labor market does not yet provide young professionals with competitiveness due to the quality of training. Accordingly, the interviewed employers note the need for qualified specialists capable of realizing the organization’s tasks.
Carotid Arterial Stiffness and Cerebral Blood Flow in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Tomoto Tsubasa , Sugawara Jun , Tarumi Takashi , Chiles Collin , Curtis Bryon , Pasha Evan P. , Cullum C. Munro , Zhang Rong
Published: January 2021

Background:

Central arterial stiffness is an emerging risk factor of age-related cognitive
impairment and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms
remain unclear.

Objective:

We tested the hypothesis that carotid arterial stiffness is associated with reduced cerebral
blood flow (CBF) and increased cerebrovascular resistance (CVR) in patients with amnestic mild cognitive
impairment (MCI), a prodromal stage of AD.

Methods:

Fifty-four patients with amnestic MCI and 24 cognitively normal subjects (CN) of similar
age and sex to MCI patients underwent measurements of CBF and carotid β-stiffness index using ultrasonography
and applanation tonometry. Total CBF was measured as the sum of CBF from both the
internal carotid and vertebral arteries, and divided by total brain tissue mass (assessed with MRI) to
obtain normalized CBF (nCBF).

Results:

Relative to CN subjects, MCI patients showed lower nCBF (53.3 ± 3.2 vs 50.4±3.4 mL/100
g/min, P < 0.001) and higher CVR (0.143 ± 0.019 vs 0.156 ± 0.023 mmHg/mL/min, P < 0.015). Multiple
linear regression analysis showed that nCBF was negatively associated with carotid β-stiffness
index (B = -0.822, P < 0.001); CVR was positively associated with carotid systolic pressure (B = 0.001,
P < 0.001) after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, and MCI status.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that carotid artery stiffening may contribute at least in part to the
reduced nCBF and increased CVR in patients with MCI associated with augmented carotid arterial
pulsatility.
Crocus Sativus L. (Saffron) in Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment: Bioactive Effects on Cognitive Impairment
Authors: D’Onofrio Grazia , Nabavi Seyed Mohammad , Sancarlo Daniele , Greco Antonio , Pieretti Stefano
Published: January 2021

:

Crocus sativus L. (saffron) appears to own neuroprotective effects on cognitive impairment
in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The purpose of this work is to review evidence
and mechanisms of saffron-induced therapeutic outcomes and measureable cognitive benefits in
AD.

:

The literature was reviewed, and preclinical and clinical studies were identified. In vitro and in
vivo preclinical studies were selected according to these criteria: 1) development of saffron pharmacological
profile on biological or biophysical endpoints; 2) evaluation of saffron efficacy using animal
screens as an AD model, and 3) duration of the studies of at least 3 months. As for the clinical
studies, the selection criteria included: 1) patients aged ≥ 60, 2) AD diagnosis according to National
Institute on Aging-Alzheimer's Association (NIAAA) criteria, and 3) appropriate procedures to
assess cognitive, functional, and clinical status. A total of 1477 studies published until November
2020 were identified during an initial phase, of which 24 met the inclusion criteria and were selected
for this review.

:

Seventeen in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies have described the efficacy of saffron on cognitive
impairment in animal models of AD, highlighting that crocin appears to be able to regulate glutamate
levels, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate Aβ and tau protein aggregation. Only four clinical
studies have indicated that the effects of saffron on cognitive impairment were not different
from those produced by donepezil and memantine and that it had a better safety profile.

:

Saffron and its compounds should be further investigated in order to consider them a safer alternative
in AD treatment.
Vortioxetine vs. Other Antidepressants in Patients with Major Depressive Episode With or Without Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Kotzalidis Georgios D. , Lombardozzi Ginevra , Matrone Marta , Amici Emanuela , Perrini Filippo , Cuomo Ilaria , De Filippis Sergio
Published: January 2021

Background:

Major Depressive Episodes (MDEs) may characterise many psychiatric disorders.
Its pharmacotherapy is laid with unmet needs, rendering the testing of new drugs necessary.

Objective:

To compare the effects of vortioxetine with those of other antidepressants (OADs) in a
1-year naturalistic setting.

Methods:

We included 126 adult patients with anMDE in the course of major depressive (MDD),
bipolar (BD), or schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSOPDs), with or without substance use disorder
(SUD), who received 5-20 mg/day oral vortioxetine, and compared them with 100 patients receiving
OADs at baseline and after 1, 3, 8, and 12 months on their scores on the MADRS, the CGIS,
the 24-item BPRS, the YMRS, the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, a Visual Analogue Scale for
craving, the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale, and the WHOQOL-BREF.

Results:

Patients on vortioxetine improved similarly to those on OADs on all measures, independently
from having or not a comorbid SUD. However, they improved with time better than their
OADcounterparts if affected by BD or SSOPDs, but not MDD, on the CGI-S, BPRS depression,
anxiety, and manic symptoms. SUD hampered the response of anxiety to treatment. Men improved
on depression with time better than women.

Conclusion:

MDEs responded to vortioxetine similarly to OADs by improving in depression, general
psychopathology, anxiety, suicidal thinking, and quality-of-life, independently from SUD comorbidity.
MDEs of patients with BD or SSOPDs on vortioxetine responded better than that of patients
on OADs. Clinical Trial Registration No. 17354N.