bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Matching Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) in Corneal Transplantation: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Sachdeva Gagandeep Singh , Cabada Joshua Piollo , Karim Syed Saad , Kahandawa Dmitry Lakvin , Thomas Kevin Anil , Kumar Anusha , Barry Robert J. , Butt Gibran Farook
Published: November 2020

BackgroundCorneal transplantation is the most frequently performed transplantation in the UK. Despite this, the therapeutic value of matching Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) subtypes for transplanted corneas remains controversial. Ocular immune privilege was originally deemed to render matching unnecessary; however more recently, matching has demonstrated improved outcomes including graft success, amongst others. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of major and minor antigen matching on graft outcomes in corneal transplantation. MethodsStandard systematic review methodology will be used to identify, select and extract data from observational studies and clinical trials assessing the effects of HLA matching on corneal graft outcomes. Bibliographic databases (Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus), clinical trial registers, abstract and conference proceedings, in addition to dissertation, thesis and grey literature will be searched. Neither date of publication nor language will be restricted, and non-English articles will be translated were necessary. The primary outcome will be to assess corneal graft success for different degrees of HLA matching/mismatching. The precise end outcome measure varies amongst studies and includes graft rejection, immunoreaction, failure and survival. Therefore, data will be extracted across all relevant outcome parameters and grouped for subsequent statistical tests. Risk of bias assessment will be completed, appropriate to each study design. Study selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment will be independently completed by two reviewers. Data will be tabulated, and a narrative synthesis presented. Meta-analysis will be performed where there is sufficient homogeneity between studies to warrant its effective completion. Subgroup and sensitivity analysis will be undertaken if appropriate.DiscussionMany studies have investigated the effectiveness of HLA matching for corneal transplantation. A systematic review is needed to collate and analyse this evidence. Findings of this systematic review may form the basis of evidence-based recommendations on pre-operative HLA typing and matching of corneal grafts for transplantation.Systematic Review RegistrationPROSPERO reference CRD42020198882
Visual Impairment and Medication Safety: A Protocol for a Scoping Review
Authors: Giles Sally J , Panagioti Maria , Riste Lisa , Cheraghi-Sohi Sudeh , Lewis Penny , Adeyemi Isabel , Davies Karen , Morris Rebecca , Phipps Denham , Dickinson Christine , Ashcroft Darren , Sanders Caroline
Published: November 2020

Background: The number of individuals with a visual impairment in the UK was estimated a few years ago to be around 1.8 million People can be visually impaired from birth, childhood, early adulthood or later in life. Those with visual impairment are subject to health inequities and increased risk for patient safety incidents in comparison to the general population. They are also known to be at an increased risk of experiencing medication errors compared to those without visual impairment. In view of this, this review aims to understand the issues of medication safety for VI people. Methods/design: Four electronic bibliographic databases will be searched: MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo and CINAHL. Our search strategy will include search combinations of two key blocks of terms. Studies will not be excluded based on design. Included studies will be empirical studies. They will include studies that relate to both medication safety and visual impairment. Two reviewers (SG and LR) will screen all the titles and abstracts. SG, LR, RM, SCS and PL will perform study selection and data extraction using standard forms. Disagreements will be resolved through discussion or third party adjudication. Data to be collected include study characteristics (year, objective, research method, setting, country), participant characteristics (number, age, gender, diagnoses), medication safety incident type and characteristics. Discussion: The review will summarise the literature relating to medication safety and visual impairment.
Clinical Application of Central Venous Catheter in Closed Thoracic Drainage After Minimally Invasive Surgery for Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Zhao Yang , Bai Zhixia , Wang Tao , Song Dong , Li Tao
Published: November 2020

Objective: To evaluate the clinical safety and practicability of the closed thoracic drainage device after esophageal cancer surgery, so as to reduce the postoperative pain and shorten the length of the hospital stay,speed up the postoperative recovery of the patients.Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent minimally invasive surgery for esophageal cancer in the Second Department of Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University from January 2017 to December 2019. Among them, 44 and 59 patients underwent central venous catheter thoracic drainage and traditional closed thoracic drainage, respectively. Recorded data included postoperative pleural drainage, postoperative extubation time, postoperative complications (postoperative encapsulated pleural effusion, postoperative subcutaneous emphysema, postoperative atelectasis, postoperative pneumothorax, postoperative pulmonary infection, postoperative anastomotic leakage), catheter re-insertion after extubation, postoperative hospital stay,postoperative drainage tube healing time,and postoperative pain score, etc.Results: There was no statistical difference in the postoperative chest drainage (d1) (547.72 ± 64.66 & 536.27 ± 84.67ml), postoperative extubation time (7.61 ± 0.92 & 7.53 ± 1.02min), or postoperative complications between the experimental group and the control group (p > 0.05). Postoperative thoracic drainage (d2-d5), postoperative hospital stay (11.75 ± 2.02 & 13.03 ± 1.29days), drainage tube healing time (5.64 ± 1.12 & 14.02 ± 1.32days), and postoperative pain scores were significantly different between the two groups of esophageal cancer patients (p < 0.05).Conclusion: The central venous catheter used for thoracic drainage is not only safe and reliable, but also greatly reduces postoperative pain and discomfort of patients, and accelerates postoperative recovery of patients. Therefore, it conforms to the concept of enhanced recovery after surgery,an disworthy of clinical application.
NLR combined with SaO2 predict severe illness among COVID-19 patients: a currently updated model
Authors: Zhang zili , Zeng Xiansheng , Wang Jian , Guo E , Fu Minglong , Yang Xuejiao , Bai Yun , Huang Qiaoxin , Li Zhuowei , Xu Jingyi , Li Yuanyuan , Zhang Xiaodan , Liu Fei , Yuan Liang , Xie Xiaohui , Li Qiongqiong , Deng Bingxian , Chen Lingzhu , Gao Yongxuan , Wang Lan , Cai Zhou , Zhu Zhanbei , Lin Fanjie , Liu Wei , Guo Hua , Huang Qinghui , Zhong Nanshan , Lu Wenju
Published: November 2020

Objectives: The pandemic of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continuously poses a serious threat to public health, highlighting an urgent need for simple and efficient early detection and prediction. Methods: We comprehensively investigated and reanalyzed the published indexes and models for predicting severe illness among COVID‑19 patients in our dataset, and validated them on an independent dataset. Results: 696 COVID-19 cases in the discovery stage and 337 patients in the validation stage were involved. The AuROC of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (0.782) was significantly higher than that of the other 11 independent risk indexes in severe outcome prediction. The combination of NLR and oxygen saturation (SaO2) (NLR+SaO2) showed the biggest AuROC calculations with a value of 0.901; with a cut-off value of 0.532, it exhibited 84.2% sensitivity, 88.4% specificity and 86.8% correct classification ratio. Moreover, we first identified that principal component analysis (PCA) is an effective tool to predict the severity of COVID-19. We obtained 86.5% prediction accuracy with 86% sensitivity when PCA was applied to predict severe illness. In addition, to evaluate the performance of NLR+SaO2 and PCA, we compared them with currently published predictive models in the same dataset. Conclusions: It showed that NLR+SaO2 is an appropriate and promising method for predicting severe illness, followed by PCA. We then validated the results on an independent dataset and revealed that they remained robust accuracy in outcome prediction. This study is significant for early treatment, intervention, triage and saving limited resources.
Reference values of respiratory impedance with impulse oscillometry in healthy Chinese adults
Authors: Liang Xiaolin , Gao Yi , Guan Weijie , Du Jing , Chen Li , Han Wen , Liu Jinming , Lu Yong , Peng Yi , Zhao Bingrong , wang Tao , Zheng Jinping
Published: November 2020

Background: Impulse oscillometry (IOS) is a non-invasive pulmonary function test for measuring respiratory impedance. Available reference equations of IOS indices for adults are limited. The aim of this study was to develop reference equations of IOS indices for Chinese adults.Methods: In a multicentral, cross-sessional study of impulse oscillometry in Chinese adults, IOS data from healthy subjects were collected from 19 general hospitals across China was between 2016 and 2018. IOS measurements were conducted in accordance with recommendations of the European Respiratory Society. Multiple linear regression was performed to develop sex-specific reference equations of IOS indices.Results: IOS measurements were performed in 1318 subjects, of which 567 subjects were defined as healthy normal individuals with acceptable IOS data and were included in the final analysis. Reference equations and limits of normal (LLN/ULN) of IOS indices were developed separately for males and females. Height but not age was shown to be the most influential contributor to IOS indices. The reference equations currently used in lung function laboratories predicted higher R5 and X5. Normal ranges of R5 and X5 recommended by the equipment manufacturer were clearly different from the ULN/LLN derived from the reference equations.Conclusions: Reference equations of IOS indices for Chinese adults from a wide region were provided in this study. It is necessary to update new IOS reference equations and adopt ULN/LLN as normal ranges of IOS indices.Clinical Trial Registration: This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as part of a larger study NCT03467880.
Covid-19 and HIV: Not Always an Unfavorable Combination
Authors: Bertozzi Pedro Vieira , Vicente Amanda de Oliveira , Pereira Amanda Siqueira , Sant'Ana João Pedro Espinha de , Mano Rafaela Braga Cabrera , Jorge Luciana Souza , Sardenberg Rodrigo Afonso da Silva
Published: November 2020

BackgroundA 73-years-old-man patient who had a history of Human Immunodefiency Virus (HIV) infection for over 20 years was diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection.Case presentationThe patient was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he remained for 25 days, due to a severe condition. Intubation, hemodialysis and tracheostomy were necessary to maintain homeostasis. In addition to regular treatment with etravirine, dolutegravir, darunavir and ritonavir for highly active antiretroviral therapy, the patient received To-cilizumab, which showed a great recovery in the patient's condition.Conclusion﻿The patient had several risk factors, such as: male gender, age> 70 years and hypertension. The use of To-cilizumab was of great importance in the patient's recovery, since the drug increased his immune response, which is deficient, due to HIV infection.
Cardiorespiratory Coupling is Associated With Exercise Capacity in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease 
Authors: Huang Yu-Chen , Lin Ting-Yu , Wu Hau-Tieng , Chang Po-Jui , Lo Chun-Yu , Wang Tsai-Yu , Kuo Chih-Hsi Scott , Lin Shu-Min , Chung Fu-Tsai , Lin Horng-Chyuan , Hsieh Meng-Heng , Lo Yun Lun
Published: November 2020

Background: Although comorbidites of cardiovascular disease is common in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the interaction between the heart and lungs in COPD patients has yet to be further elucidated. Synchrogram index is a new parameter that can quantify this interaction and has the potential to apply in COPD patients. Aim: Our objective in this study was to characterize cardiorespiratory interactions in terms of cardiorespiratory coupling (CRC) using the synchrogram index of the heart rate and respiratory flow signals in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Methods: This is a cross-sectional and a preliminary data from a prospective study, examining 55 COPD patients. K-means clustering analysis was applied to cluster COPD patients based on synchrogram index. Linear regression and multivariable regression analysis were used to determine the correlation between the synchrogram index and the exercise capacity assessed by six-minute walking test (6MWT).Results: The 55 COPD patients were separated into a synchronized group (median 0.89 (0.64-0.97), n=43) and a desynchronized group (median 0.23 (0.02-0.51), n=12) based on K-means clustering analysis. Synchrogram index was correlated significantly with six minutes walking distance (r=0.42, p=0.001) and distance saturation product (r= 0.41, p=0.001) assessed by 6MWT, and still was an independent variable by multivariable regression analysis.Conclusion: This is the first result studying the heart-lung interaction in terms of cardiorespiratory coupling in COPD patients by the synchrogram index, and COPD patients are clustered into synchronized and desynchronized groups. Cardiorespiratory coupling is associated with exercise capacity in patients with COPD.
Diagnostic Value of Immunohistochemical Markers in Four-grade Histological Classification of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Feiqian , Numata Kazushi , Nakano Masayuki , Tanabe Mikiko , Chuma Makoto , Nihonmatsu Hiromi , Nozaki Akito , Moriya Satoshi , Luo Wen , Ruan Litao , Okada Masahiro , Otani Masako , Inayama Yoshiaki , Maeda Shin
Published: November 2020

Backgrounds: Accurate differential diagnosis regarding histological grades of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is critical for targeted treatment and prognostic evaluation. However, the currently used descriptive diagnosis of histological grading have to observe tedious item of neovascularization, stromal invasion, cellular and structural atypia, which have drawbacks of subjectivity and error-prone. Immunohistochemical (IHC) markers-based diagnosis only needs to determine whether there is staining in the cell membrane, cytoplasm and / or nucleus. Using IHC markers targeted heat shock protein (HSP)70, glypican (GPC)3, glutamine synthetase (GS), and organic anion transport peptide (OATP), we sought to establish an easy method for the diagnosis of the histopathological grades and further explore the best efficacy by their combined or independent application.Methods: We retrospectively conducted a study of 157 patients with 200 histologically confirmed HCCs, which were classified into early (n= 45), well (n=31), moderately (n=68), and poorly (n=56) differentiated (diff.) HCC. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy of HSP70, GPC3, GS and OATP on each histological grade were examined. Results: HSP70 and GPC3 showed difference in most histological grades of HCC ( P < 0.05). GS distinguished early HCC from three other histological grades (p < 0.01). OATP8 only differentiated early HCC from poorly diff. HCC (P=0.019). When any two of the three indicators (HSP, GPC3, and GS) were negatively expressed, the diagnostic efficacy of early HCC was the highest, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.802 and accuracy of 80.5%. The optimal efficacy for poorly diff. HCC detection was obtained when both GPC3 and HSP70 were positively expressed (74.4% accuracy; AUC = 0.703). However, for well and moderately diff. HCC, a relative satisfactory AUC value (>0.60) failed to yield either by the independent or combined diagnosis of any IHC indicators.Conclusion: Using GS, HSP70, and GPC3, early and poorly diff. HCC can be properly diagnosed. IHC markers might be a potential alternative tool for histological differential diagnosis of HCC.
Impact of 1-Hour Bundle Achievement in Septic Shock
Authors: Ko Byuk Sung , Choi Sung-Hyuk , Shin Tae Gun , Kim Kyuseok , Jo You Hwan , Ryoo Seung Mok , Kim Youn-Jung , Park Yoo Seok , Kwon Woon Yong , Choi Han Sung , Chung Sung Phil , Suh Gil Joon , Kang Hyunggoo , Lim Tae Ho , Son Donghee , Kim Won Young
Published: November 2020

Background: Evidence supporting the association between 1-hour bundle achievement and patient outcomes is limited and inconsistent. Hence, this study aimed to address the impact of 1-hour bundle achievement on outcomes in septic shock patients.Methods: A prospective multicentre observational study of septic shock patients with a protocolised resuscitation bundle therapy at emergency departments was conducted from October 2015 to December 2018. In-hospital mortality according to 1-hour bundle achievement from shock recognition were compared using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Patients were also divided into six groups according to the time of bundle achievement and outcomes were compared to examine the difference in outcome for each group over time: group 1 (≤1 h; reference), 2 (1–2 h), 3 (2–3 h), 4 (3–4 h), 5 (4–5 h), and 6 (5–6 h). Results: In total, 1,612 patients with septic shock were included and in-hospital mortality was 18.2%. The 1-hour bundle was achieved in 461 (28.6%) patients. In multivariate analysis, the group achieving 1-hour bundle did not show a significant difference in in-hospital mortality compared to those who did not achieve 1-hour bundle (odds ratio = 0.74, confidence interval: 0.522–1.049, p = 0.091). However, groups 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 showed significantly lower odds ratios of in-hospital mortality compared to those who did not achieve the bundle elements (odds ratio = 0.733, 0.604, 0.541, 0.532, and 0.458, respectively; p = 0.042, 0.001, < 0.001, 0.001, and < 0.001, respectively). There was no significant difference in in-hospital mortality over time for each group compared to that of group 1 used as a reference.Conclusion: One-hour bundle achievement was not associated with improved outcomes in septic shock patients with protocolised resuscitation bundle therapy. However, groups achieving 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-hour bundle were associated more with improved outcome than those who did not. Further clinical trials are needed to clarify the clinical implications of 1-hour bundle achievement.
Knowledge, attitudes and preventative practices (KAPs) towards COVID-19 among international students in China
Authors: Xuelian Wu , Munthali George N. Chidimbah
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Despite the world having history of fighting pandemics the coming of Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which started in Wuhan in China late last year, has had the worst devastating impacts the world has never seen before. The study aimed to find out about the knowledge, attitudes and preventative practices of COVID-19 among international students in China during the pandemic.Material and methods: A cross-section survey was conducted among 300 international students from 13 different universities in Hubei province of China between March and April 2020 which relied upon convenience sampling method. Data was collected through an online Microsoft questionnaire. The analysis of data was done by using software IBM SPSS version 23 with p-value of 0.05 which was considered as statistical significance. Descriptive analysis and multi-linear regression analysis were conducted to find association between variables.Results and discussion : Out of 300 respondents 153 (51%) of the respondents were female students, of which the majority were single, undergraduate students who were doing medicine 163 (54.3%) and engineering-programmes 68 (22.7%). The results indicated that the vast majority of international students had an impressive knowledge on the causes, risks and spread of COVID-19 and that they were no misconception of the pandemic 229 (76%) to 281 (98%) respectively. These students also demonstrated a markedly positive attitude towards the virus and a feeling that they were almost complete safe being in China 264 (84%). Variations were found on Knowledge scores in age group(P<0.01) and majors (P=0.025), attitude scores on major of study (P=0.015) and experience (P<0.01). Furthermore, the results revealed that almost all the students 300 (100%) adhered to and practiced set preventive measures against COVID-19 and that there was a positive correlation between attitudes and preventative practices (r=0.219, P <0.01).Conclusion: This study found that social media platform was contributing enormously towards information dissemination and Chinese universities were commended for their continuous notifications on COVID-19 which helped students to have full knowledge. This, in turn, was instrumental in helping students to form good attitudes and practices towards COVID-19.
DECREASE IN SERUM BILIRUBIN AS AN UNFAVORABLE MARKER OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS
Authors: Strilchuk L. M. , Zimba O. O. , Zhakun I. B.
Published: November 2020

Serum bilirubin, the end product of heme metabolism, is a routine biochemical parameter. Bilirubin is not a liver function parameter exclusively: its concentration correlates with ischemic heart disease (IHD) risk, estimated glomerular filtration rate, retinopathy or neuropathy in diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis etc.
The aim of this paper was to estimate the clinical value of bilirubin analysis according to literature data and own clinical observations in patients with IHD and acute and chronic rheumatologic diseases.
Materials and methods. We conducted a literature overview in Pubmed database and domestic sources and also analyzed the standard examinaions of 515 patients: 353 patients with coronary heart disease (acute forms, coronary bypass grafting – 98; acute myocardial infarction, pharmacotherapy – 75; unstable angina pectoris – 101; stable angina pectoris – 79) and 162 rheumatologic patients (haemorrhagic vasculitis – 71; rheumatic fever – 57; chronic rheumatic heart disease with valvular defects – 34). Control group consisted of 22 patients with gastroduodenal zone diseases without helicobacter (esophagitis, gastritis, peptic ulcer).

Results and discussion. It was revealed that in case of diseases with oxidative stress in their pathogenesis (acute forms of coronary heart disease, haemorrhagic vasculitis, rheumatic fever) bilirubin level was lower than in case of non-oxidative disorders (non-infectious esophagitis, gastritis, ulcer). Increase of inflammation potency was accompanied by bilirubin decrease. Correlation analysis showed that both bilirubin increase and decrease were unfavourable.
Conclusions. Bilirubin concentration correlated with parameters of cytolysis, intoxication, anemia, inflammation, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, heart structure. Bilirubin decrease associated with the increase of stenosis of coronary arteries (left, left circumflex and anterior interventricular) in a logarithmic way. Hypobilirubinemia (< 9.6 mkmol/L) significantly more often accompanied diseases with oxidative stress in pathogenesis, acute forms and more active systemic inflammation.

Keywords
total bilirubin, hypobilirubinemia, coronary heart disease, haemorrhagic vasculitis, rheumatic fever, chronic rheumatic heart disease.
FEATURES OF DIAGNOSIS OF EXTERNAL DIROFILARIASIS
Authors: Duzhiy I. D. , Piatykop H. I. , Gresko I. Ya. , Kravets O. V. , Pererva O. O. , Sytnik O. L.
Published: November 2020

Global environmental problems are gradually changing climatic conditions in different regions and cause significant warming. As a result, high-water beds, lakes and ponds get swamped and are colonized by blood-sucking mosquitoes, which are carriers of a number of diseases, including dirofilariasis. Manifestations of external dirofilariasis may look like ophthalmic, surgical, urological, oncological, dermatological, vascular, psychiatric diseases. The objective manifestation of the disease is the appearance of skin-subcutaneous formation, which periodically changes location.
The purpose of the work: To expand the knowledge about this helminthic infection for the medical community and demonstrate the possibility of timely diagnosis.
Results of the study and discussion. The authors observed 4 patients with external dirofilariasis and described 2 clinical cases. Only after surgical removal, the diagnosis was confirmed.
Conclusions: Climate warming facilitates migration of blood-sucking insects from the southern regions to the north. Economic problems contribute to the increase of stray dogs and cats which are the ultimate hosts of dirofilaria. A person becomes infected through mosquito bites, which has to be considered during anamnesis data collection. The appearance of cutaneous or intradermal formations which tend to move may give grounds to diagnose lipomas, atheromas, phlebitis, lymphodenitis, "allergic reactions" after insect bites. The appearance of other symptoms such as weakness, muscle pain, joint pain, headache, eyeball pain, double vision, and sometimes nausea should suggest the possibility dirofilariasis, and focusing on the indications for surgical intervention.

Keywords
climate change, dirofilariasis, diagnostic and treatment surgical intervention.
BIOPHYSICAL MARKERS OF ISCHEMIC STROKE
Authors: Lychko V.
Published: November 2020

An important and influential factor that directly affects the severity of ischemic stroke (IS) and determines its outcome is the functional state of the membrane-receptor complex (MRC) of cells. One of the most important criteria for assessing this parameter is the β‑adrenergic activity of cytoplasmic membranes (β‑ARM), which plays a leading role in the pathogenesis of IS. The article presents the results of a comprehensive study of the peculiarities of changes in the structural and functional characteristics of brain tissue and β‑adrenoceptors in the acute period of IS to optimize diagnosis.

Measurement of changes in the osmotic resistance of erythrocytes (ORE) under the action of β‑blockers was determined by photoelectron colorimetry.

The work was based on the materials of a comprehensive examination of 350 patients with the new-onset IS on the 1st, 10th and 21st day of the disease. The severity of the condition and the degree of neurological deficit were objectified using the stroke scale of the National Institutes of Health (NIHSS) with a score in the first hours of the disease, in the dynamics of treatment on the 10th and 21st day.
All patients were divided into 2 clinical groups: 1st (n = 183) – patients in moderate severity condition (mean score on the NIHSS scale 11.74 ± 0.33); 2nd (n = 167) – patients in severe condition (mean score on the NIHSS scale 24.06 ± 0.29).
As a result of the study, the indicators of β‑ARM of the control group were within normal limits (15.3 ± 4.4 SU), which corresponds to normal β‑ARM. In patients with moderate IS, the indicator exceeded the control values by 1.97 times, which is typical for the average degree of β‑ARM (21–40 SU), and in severe – 2.8 times and was characterized by a low degree of β‑ARM (> 41 SU). An unfavorable sign for the prognosis of the acute period of IS was represented by a further increase in the levels of β‑ARM in the dynamics, which was observed in clinically severe patients.

Keywords
adrenergic activity, ischemia, erythrocyte, receptor.
Phytochemical Characterization of Native New Mexico Hops
Authors: Rheay Hanah T. , Lombard Kevin , Brewer Catherine , Holguin F. Omar
Published: November 2020

Neomexicanus hops (Humulus lupulus var. neomexicanus) are receiving increased attention within the craft beer and nutraceutical industries. Characterization of bittering acids and essential oils in two neomexicanus varieties revealed wide ranges of bittering acid compositions and distinct essential oil profiles compared with ‘Cascade’ common hops (H. lupulus). Total phenolic content (TPC), expressed as gallic acid equivalent (GAE), in neomexicanus hops ranged from 50 to 100 mg·g−1 GAE, consistently higher than published literature values for hop TPC (2 to 50 mg·g−1 GAE). Results indicate that, compared with ‘Cascade’, neomexicanus hops have unique phytochemical characteristics, which may lead to new applications in brewing and nutraceutical fields.
Comparative evaluation of anesthesia methods for reconstructive carotid surgery
Authors: Neymark M. I. , Shmelyov V. V. , Titova Z. A. , Khaustova S. A. , Shadymov B. A.
Published: November 2020

The objective: to assess the impact of total intravenous and combined anesthesia (consisting of regional block and inhalation anesthesia with sevoflurane) on higher mental functions, frequency and nature of postoperative complications in carotid endarterectomy.

Subjects and methods. A total of 190 patients with ipsilateral carotid stenosis exceeding 70%, or with the unstable atheromatous plaque were examined. CE was performed in 140 (73.6%) patients, while 50 (26.4%) patients underwent plasty with the autovenous patch. 60 patients had total intravenous anesthesia. The other 60 patients had combination anesthesia (cervical plexus block as per A. Yu. Paschuk + non-inhalation anesthesia with thiopental sodium). In 70 patients, low-flow inhalation anesthesia with sevoran and potentiation of the analgesic effect by bolus administration of fentanyl was performed. The parameters of central hemodynamics, cerebral blood flow, markers of cerebral damage, and state of higher mental functions were assessed.

Results. Inhalation anesthesia with sevoflurane was characterized by decrease of total peripheral resistance index by 20% (p = 0.002) and SBP by 13% (p = 0.004) compared to baseline values. Moderate reduction of afterload was accompanied by normalization of cardiac and stroke indices. Optimization of the central hemodynamic parameters led to high levels of the linear velocity of cerebral blood flow and cerebral perfusion pressure which at the main stages of the operation did not differ from the control values. At the end of the operation, a statistically significant insignificant increase in intracranial pressure was noted (on average, by 4 mm Hg exceeded values at the previous stages, p = 0.014) and levels of markers of ischemic neuronal damage: the levels of antibodies to protein S-100 increased by 14% (p = 0.043), and NSE – by 2.8 μg/L. During inhalation anesthesia with sevoflurane, the lowest number of postoperative neurological and cardiac complications was recorded; they developed only in 6 (8.6%) patients and distributed equally. However, more pronounced postoperative cognitive dysfunction was noted when this method of anesthesia was used.

Conclusion. Each method of anesthesia provided an unequal level of cerebral protection from ischemic damage which was manifested by a difference in the severity of disorders of higher mental functions, the number and nature of postoperative neurological complications.
Certain aspects of using Z-score to assess cognitive disorders
Authors: Subbotin V. V. , Dushin I. N. , Kamnev S. A. , Аntipov A. Yu.
Published: November 2020

Detailed psychological testing is needed to identify cognitive impairments after anesthesia and surgery. This problem can be solved by development of the program of combination psychological tests with their assessment based on the Z-score, also known as the standard deviation test.

The objective: to determine reference values of psychological tests to assess the results of Z-score.

Subjects and methods. The study was included 30 healthy volunteers and 43 patients who underwent surgery. The panel of psychological tests consisted of the clock drawing test, oral counting test, assessment of short-term memory, sequence set, Digit Symbol Substitution Test, and the classic Stroop test. The mean values and standard deviations were calculated for each of the groups to evaluate the test results by Z-score.

Results. It was found that using standard deviations obtained in the group of healthy volunteers as reference values for Z-score resulted in a higher percentage of deterioration in the result of repeated tests compared to using reference values obtained in group of patients.

Conclusion: When using Z-score for cognitive tests, it is better to use the means and SD obtained in a group of healthy volunteers taking into account the possibility of finding differences where there are none (type I error).
Myocardial function after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting with combined epidural and inhalation anesthesia
Authors: Paromov K. V. , Volkov D. A. , Nizovtsev N. V. , Kirov M. Yu.
Published: November 2020

There are certain debates regarding epidural anesthesia (EA) and analgesia in cardiac surgery.

The objective: to evaluate functions of left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) function with echocardiography after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) using combined inhalation and epidural anesthesia.

Subjects and methods: 68 patients were randomized into 2 groups, differed by anesthesia techniques. In Group 1 (GA, n = 34), we used general anesthesia with sevoflurane and fentanyl, while in Group 2 (CA, n = 34) – its combination with epidural anesthesia by 0.5% ropivacaine followed by infusion of 0.2% ropivacaine after OPCAB. Parameters of cardiac performance and ventricular function were assessed by echocardiography.

Results. There were no differences in systolic function of LV, RV, diastolic function of LV between the groups. The difference in the left atrial strain was revealed before hospital discharge and made 18.0 (14.5‒21.5) % in CA Group and 24.0 (18.0–26.0)% in GA Group (p = 0.028).

Conclusions. The use of epidural anesthesia and analgesia is not associated with clinically significant changes in inotropic and lusitropic functions of LV as well as RV systolic function after OPCAB.
FORECASTING OF QUALITY OF LIFE OF PATIENTS WITH FRACTURES OF THE PROXIMAL FEMUR
Authors: Hurbanova Tamara
Published: November 2020

The aim of the research: correlation levels of the psychological component of quality of life and medical-epidemiological characteristics of patients with fractures of the proximal thigh. Solved problem: to determine the possibility of predicting the impact of medical-epidemiological and anamnestic characteristics of patients with fractures of the proximal thigh on their quality of life after treatment of fractures of the proximal thigh. Main scientific results: natural increase in comorbidity in the presence of comorbidities, low functional status and an increase in age characteristics were established. The probable influence of comorbidity on the decrease of the functional state according to the ASA classification also stated. An increase in the duration of treatment of patients with surgical treatment and a longer period of injury marked. The decrease in the quality of life of patients with increasing age characteristics, increasing comorbidity and reducing the indicators of functional status according to the ASA classification have been established. Area of practical use of research results: medical institutions of traumatological profile. Innovative technological product: determining the ability to predict the quality of life of patients after treatment of fractures of the proximal thigh, which allows you to predict the results of treatment such patients. Scope of application of the innovative technological product: clinical medical traumatological practice of use of possibilities of forecasting of results of treatment of fractures of proximal hip department.
Features of Problem Based Learning Lesson Plan That Fits into the Realities in the Teaching and Learning of Mathematics for Pre-service Teachers in Ghana
Authors: Boye Eric Sefa
Published: November 2020

The traditional method of teaching Mathematics has been criticised by researchers as learner passive paving the way for Problem Based Learning (PBL) strategy into the teacher education curriculum in Ghana. This development has aroused concerns about the effectiveness of lesson plans designed for teaching using the traditional method. Consequently, the introduction of a PBL lesson plan that is learner-centred, interactive, and involves the cooperation of learners in small group activities has become indispensable. The study seeks to determine the features of the PBL lesson plan that fits into the realities in the teaching and learning of Mathematics for pre-service teachers at the colleges of education in Ghana. The methodology employed in this study involved a literature review of a traditional lesson plan for pre-service teachers in Ghana alongside a proposed PBL lesson plan for pre-service teachers through a qualitative analysis before the enactment of the instructional process. The result and discussions of the two lesson plans placed the PBL lesson plan as a more constructive and a deeper reflection of the three domains of learning (cognitive, affective, and psychomotor) which are crucial in stating instructional objectives and for teaching Mathematics. The paper recommended that the PBL strategy should be integrated into the teacher education curriculum in Ghana since its features better fit into the realities in Mathematics education in Ghana.
Law and the organisational aspects of combating tax crime in Slovakia Republic
Authors:   Academy of the Police Force, Dworzecki Jacek , Nowicka Izabela ,   Military University of Land Forces in Wrocław
Published: November 2020

Fiscal crime in its essence is certainly one of the most dangerous, anti-state phenomena, which constitutes a genuine threat to the entire population of a country. Disturbing opinions on the part of Slovak society regarding the lack of threats to the country’s safety, despite fiscal crimes, cannot be ignored without a reaction from the institutions and state organs as well as aware citizens. Taxes, which played one of the most important roles in economic systems throughout history due to the obligatory cash tributes provided to the ruler and later to the state, are now a basic source of income for state budgets and are regarded by many taxpayers as a necessary evil that must be avoided by any means possible. Significant improvement in the level of activities related to the prevention, identification, and detection of tax delicts has been underway since 2012, which involved the creation of the Tax Administration as a result of the merger of two institutions: Customs Administration and Tax Administration. The article clarifies the legal analysis of the provisions supporting institutions in the fight against tax crime and it presents types of tax crimes in the Slovak Penal Code, using statistical data as well as institutions authorized to combat tax crimes in the Slovak Republic.
Procedural status of the prosecutor in legal proceedings to resolve public law disputes in the Republic of Tajikistan
Authors:   Institute of Philosophy, Political Science and Law named after A. M. Bakhovaddinov, Muzafarova Nargis S. , Davlatzoda Faridjon M. ,   Institute of Philosophy, Political Science and Law named after A. M. Bakhovaddinov
Published: November 2020

This article analyses the procedural status and forms of prosecutor participation in legal proceedings in public law disputes in general jurisdiction courts and special economic jurisdiction in the Republic of Tajikistan. Problems, contradictions, and gaps are identified in the current procedural legislation of the Republic of Tajikistan, which regulates the procedure for resolving public law disputes. Moreover, the article highlights the new approaches of the national legislator in the Civil Procedure Code of the Republic of Tajikistan 2008, the Economic Procedure Code 2008; The Code of Administrative Procedures of the Republic of Tajikistan 2007 which regulates the legal status of a prosecutor in resolving public law disputes in civil, economic, and administrative proceedings. In all these procedural acts in this category of disputes, the prosecutor is defined as a person participating in the case, which implies his legal interest in the ruling. Based on the analysis of national legislation, the article reveals that the objectives of the prosecutor in cases arising from public law relations are to ensure the rule of law and public interest. The authors conclude that the procedural institute of the prosecutor, as a person participating in cases on the resolution of public law disputes, is not new. However, many issues related to the prosecutor in the Republic of Tajikistan remain unresolved. Based on the results of the analysis conducted, the article concludes that there is a necessity to improve legislation that manages the participation of the prosecutor in the consideration of public law disputes.
PRODUKTIVITAS JAMU PADA MASYARAKAT ARGOMULYO DI MASA PANDEMI
Authors: Susilowati Nenden
Published: November 2020

Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh motivasi, disiplin dan pengalaman terhadap produktivitas jamu pada masyarakat Argomulyo di tengah pandemi. Penelitian ini berjenis eksplanatif. Populasi dari penelitian adalah masyarakat di Kelurahan Argomulyo. Sampel sejumlah 35 pedagang jamu tradisional dengan pengambilan sampel melalui teknik purposive sampling. Data yang digunakan adalah data primer dihasilkan dari penelitian lapangan. Data dikumpulkan lewat angket dan proses pengamatan. Analisis data menggunakan analisis regresi berganda. Hasil penelitian adalah sebagai berikut. Pertama, motivasi memberikan pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap produktivitas. Kedua, displin memberikan pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap produktivitas. Ketiga, pengalaman memberikan pengaruh signifikan terhadap produktivitas.  Abstract: This study aims to determine the effect of motivation, the discipline and experience on the productivity of herbal medicine in the Argomulyo community during a pandemic. This research is of an explanative type. The population of this research is the people in Argomulyo Village. The sample was 35 traditional herbal medicine traders with a purposive sampling technique. The data used are primary data generated from field research. Data were collected through questionnaires and observation processes. Data analysis using multiple regression analysis. The results of the study are as follows. First, motivation has a significant effect on productivity. Second, the discipline has a significant effect on productivity. The three, experiences have a significant influence on productivity.
DUA DEKADE TERAKHIR NERACA PERDAGANGAN INDONESIA
Authors: Thirafi Luthfi
Published: November 2020

Abstrak: Era keterbukaan ekonomi mendorong pada terciptanya perekonomian global. Sebagai negara dengan perekonomian terbuka indonesia menjadi bagian dari transaksi internasional tersebut. Untuk itu pemahaman atas neraca perdagangan Indonesia menjadi hal yang sangat penting. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memahami kondisi neraca perdagangan Indonesia selama dua dekade terakhir, termasuk saat menghadapi krisis global yang terjadi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif sederhana yang dilengkapi oleh penjelasan deskriptif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa secara umum neraca perdagangan Indonesia cenderung berada dalam kondisi surplus meski trennya menurun. Neraca perdagangan Indonesia menunjukkan kekuatan tersendiri dalam menghadapi krisis global. Hal yang menjadi perhatian adalah lebih tingginya pertumbuhan impor indonesia dibandingkan dengan pertumbuhan ekspor indonesia. Selain itu Indonesia juga memiliki ketergantungan pada impor barang mentah.  Abstract: The era of economic openness has led to the creation of a global economy. As a country with an open economy, Indonesia is a part of these international transactions. For this reason, understanding Indonesia's trade balance is very important. This study aims to understand the condition of Indonesia's trade balance during the last two decades, including when facing the global crisis that occurred. This study uses a simple quantitative method equipped with descriptive explanations. The results show that in general Indonesia's trade balance tends to be in a surplus condition even though the trend is declining. Indonesia's trade balance shows its strength in facing the global crisis. Of concern, Indonesia's import growth is higher than Indonesia's export growth. Besides, Indonesia also has a dependence on imports of raw goods.
Review and Future Perspectives of the Korea Counseling Center for Fertility and Depression (KCCFD) Counseling Service Based on User Characteristics: Focusing on Infertility
Authors: Kim Jangrae , Chu Kyungjin , Lee ·Seung Jae , Lee Taek Hoo , Chon Seung Joo , Cho Seo-Eun , Tae Chul Min , Chung Ki Hyun , Choi Anna
Published: November 2020

Purpose: This study aimed to review the history and examine the current service system of the Korea Counseling Center for Fertility and Depression (KCCFD) by analyzing the characteristics of its users, and to suggest measures to improve the system.Methods: Data on 883 infertile patients counseled through the KCCFD’s counseling service over the last 2 years were collected for a demographic analysis. The clinical information of 396 female subjects who received regular counseling after registration were analyzed to investigate factors influencing depression. Finally, a matching sample t-test was conducted to verify the effects of the counseling service.Results: The screening test showed that 50.7% of the infertile patients in our study were registered at our centers and received registered counseling. A total of 27.6% of the subjects was identified as being at high-risk for depression, and 71.3% of those at high-risk received registered counseling. The logistic regression analysis showed that being a homemaker, having a history of psychiatric disorder, and having undergone in vitro fertilization three or more times were significant factors that predict moderate or more severe depression. The female infertility patients who underwent counseling showed a significant decrease in depression, anxiety, general stress, and infertility stress.Conclusion: Screening tests need to be performed prior to assisted reproductive technology if any of the 3 risk factors is present. The rate of registered counseling, regular follow-up using psychological tests, and cross-linkages with affiliated agencies should serve as the metrics for the quality control of the counseling service. Early detection of individuals at high-risk for depression calls for an activated liaison among affiliated agencies and expanded regional centers.
A Study on Counseling Experiences of Nurses of Infertility Centers Using a Qualitative Research Method
Authors: Park Jummi , Shin Nayeon
Published: November 2020

Purpose: This study explored the counseling experience of infertility nurses using in depth interview.Methods: The study participants included nurses of infertility centers located “Seoul” city, Korea. The data collection involved fieldwork in nursing at the infertility center of 2 hospitals. Data were analyzed using text analysis and qualitative research was conducted to analyzed the data.Results: The analysis yielded four essential themes: (1) therapeutic communication, (2) identifying the problem of infertile patients and proceeding consultation, (3) professional image and polite attitude, and (4) counseling relaxed comfortably.Conclusion: Infertility nurses’ counseling experience is directed toward the development of an infertility counseling model.