bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation Between Inflammatory Parameters and Thyroid Axis in Patients With COVID-19
Authors: Ilera Veronica , Delfino Laura C. , Zunino Anabela , Glikman Patricia , Drnovsek Mónica , Reyes Adriana , Dios Alicia , Toibaro Javier , Pachioli Valeria , Lannes Nayla , Guida Alberto , Gauna Alicia
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Inflammation plays a critical role in the progression of COVID-19. Nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS) has been increasingly recognized in affected patients. We aim to evaluate the correlation of thyroid hormones with markers of inflammation and association with disease outcome in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, and in two profiles of NTIS (low T3-normal/low FT4 vs low T3-high FT4). Methods: prospective study of 55 patients (50.9% men, median age 56 years) admitted to a non-intensive care unit for COVID-19. Infection was mild in 22%, moderate in 27.1% and severe in 50.8%; 7.41% died. T4, T3, FT4, FT3 and their ratios (T3/T4, FT3/FT4) were correlated with albumin, ferritin, fibrinogen, erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR], C-reactive protein [CRP], lactate dehydrogenase [LDH] and D-dimer. Results: Albumin correlated positively with T3 and hormones ratios, but negatively with FT4. T3, FT3, T3/T4 and FT3/FT4 ratios correlated inversely with ferritin, fibrinogen, ESR, CRP, LDH and D-dimer. FT4 showed direct correlation with fibrinogen and ESR. T3/T4 ratio was lower in severe compared to mild/moderate disease [7.5 (4.5-15.5) vs 9.2 (5.8-18.1); p=0.04], and lower in patients who died than in those discharged [5 (4.53-5.6) vs 8.1 (4.7-18.1); p=0.03]. A lowT3/high FT4 profile was associated with lower albumin, higher ferritin, and severity. Conclusion: In this cohort, thyroid hormones correlated with inflammation and outcome. T3 and T3/T4 ratio correlated inversely with inflammatory markers; a low T3/T4 ratio was associated with severity and poor prognosis. Patients with low T3 but high FT4 had higher ferritin, lower albumin, and more severe disease at presentation.
Creating a scientific solution: local problem solving in the Portuguese Health Examination Survey: a mixed method study
Authors: Lyshol Heidi , Gil Ana P. , Tolonen Hanna , Namorado Sónia , Kislaya Irina , Barreto Marta , Antunes Liliana , Santos Ana J. , Rodrigues Ana P. , Dias Carlos M. , Gaio Vânia
Published: June 2021

Background Participation rates in health surveys, recognized as an important quality dimension, have been declining over the years, which may affect representativeness and confidence in results. The Portuguese national health examination survey INSEF (2015) achieved a participation rate of 43.9%, which is in line with participation rates from other similar health examination surveys. The objective of this article is to describe strategies used by the local teams to increase participation rates and to solve practical survey problems.Methods After a literature search, informal interviews were conducted with 14 public health officials from local health examination teams, regional and central authorities. 41 of the local staff members also filled in a short questionnaire anonymously. The interviews and self-administered questionnaires were analysed using mixed methods, informed by thematic analysis.Results The local teams believed that the detailed manual, described as a "cookbook for making a health examination survey", made it possible to maintain high scientific standards while allowing for improvising solutions to problems in the local context. The quality of the manual, supported by a series of training workshops with the central research and support team, gave the teams the confidence and knowledge to implement local solutions. Motivation and cohesion within the local teams were among the goals of the training process. Local teams felt empowered by being given large responsibilities and worked hard to incite people to attend the examination through a close and persuasive approach.Local teams praised their INSA contacts for being available for assistance throughout the survey, and said they were inspired to try harder to reach participants to please their contacts for interpersonal reasons.Conclusions The theory of organizational improvisation or bricolage, which means using limited resources to solve problems, was useful to discuss and understand what took place during INSEF.A detailed manual covering standard procedures and face-to-face workshops, including role-play, were vital to assure high scientific standards and high participation rates in this health examination survey. Close contacts between the central team and local focal points in all regions and all survey sites were key to accommodating unexpected challenges and innovative solutions.
Changes in Carbon and Nitrogen Mineralization in Soil Organic Matter Under High CO2 Concentrations
Authors: GUO Jun , WANG Li-Ge , WU Ai-Lian , WANG Jin-Song , Dong Er-Wei , JIAO Xiao-Yan
Published: June 2021

To investigate the effects of different organic materials on soil organic carbon accumulation and carbon and nitrogen mineralization under different CO2 concentrations, field topsoil was used as the test soil and chicken manure, cow manure, and straw were mixed with soil samples as organic materials. The changes in organic carbon, carbon and nitrogen mineralization, and utilization of carbon sources by soil microorganisms were measured under high CO2 (800–1000 ppm) and low CO2 (400–500 ppm) concentrations. The results showed that adding organic material to soil can accelerate the mineralization of organic carbon and reduce the mineralization of nitrogen. While the addition of chicken manure and cow manure reduced the content of total organic carbon and active organic carbon in soil, straw increased the content of total organic carbon and active organic carbon in soil and reduced carbon utilization by the soil microbial community. Collectively, our findings revealed that, under high CO2 concentrations, adding organic material to soil can accelerate the mineralization of organic carbon and reduce the mineralization of nitrogen.
Distinctive Clinical and Pathologic Features of Immature Teratomas Arising From Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Injection in a Patient With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Han Lei , He Hao , Yang Yihao , Meng Qingyin , Ye Fan , Chen Gong , Zhang Jing
Published: June 2021

As a new potential cure for diabetes, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are characterized by self-renewal capacity and the ability to differentiate into pancreatic islet β-cells, which will hopefully secrete insulin and rebuild blood glucose balance. The safety and validity of iPSC treatment for diabetes remain controversial. One of the most serious risks is teratoma formation arising from undifferentiated stem cells, but clinical reports are rare. Here, we report a distinctive case of immature teratoma after iPSC treatment for diabetes, which was accidentally treated in our soft tissue sarcoma centre. The patient received islet β-cell injection, in which the cells were differentiated from autologous iPSCs, into the deltoideus muscle. Two months later, a mass located in the injection area formed with enlarged axillary lymph nodes. Here, we present the different clinical, radiological and pathological features of this immature teratoma in detail. Distinctive from typical immature teratomas, the tumour was characterized by rapid growth and local lymph node metastasis. The tumour was not sensitive to typical chemotherapy regimens for immature teratomas. MRI scanning showed heterogeneous enhancement and a rich blood supply to the tumour. The histopathology showed immature endoderm, mesoderm and ectoderm tissues composed of osseous, cartilaginous, vascular and adenoid tissues, which have more cellular atypia than typical teratomas. Staining for both Oct-4 and Sox-2 was positive in the tumour cell nucleus by immunofluorescence assay, but insulin staining was negative. Next-generation sequencing showed many missense mutations, but abnormal gene rearrangement or copy number was not observed. In conclusion, more attention should be given to teratoma formation after iPSC treatment for diabetes, which is more aggressive than typical teratomas. The safety and validity of iPSC treatment for diabetes should be confirmed by more standardized clinical trials.
Epidemiologic and Pathologic Study of Pancreatic Cancer in Hamadan, Iran (2008 to 2018)
Authors: Khanlarzadeh Elham , Nazari Saman , Ghobakhlou Mehdi , Ranjbar Hossein , Nazari Sasan
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Pancreatic cancer is the seventh leading cause of cancer death in cases. The study was conducted to determine the epidemiologic and pathologic of pancreatic cancer Methods: A case series study was conducted retrospectively at Beheshti Hospital in Hamadan, Iran. A total of 409 cases that had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer from 2008 to 2018 were reviewed. The variables included age, gender, occupation, pathological type, location involved, early symptoms, metastasis status, prognosis and treatments, was extracted from the files and recorded in checklist. Data were analyzed by using SPSS/20 software. Results: Pancreatic cancer has been increasing trend in terms of time (2008-2018). Pancreatic cancer was most common age in the sixth decade of life and is more common in men than women. There was a significant relationship between aging and the incidence of pancreatic cancers (P<0.05). Most of the subjects were urban (50.4%). the frequency of smoking, alcohol and drugs were (34.5, 15.6 and 14.0%), respectively. Also, there was no statistically significant relationship between smoking, alcohol and drugs and pancreatic cancer (P>0.05). The frequency of pancreatic cancers included Adenocarcinomas (66.7%), Unknown (25.2%), Mucinous Adenocarcinomas (4.2%) and Carcinoma (3.9%), respectively. Conclusion: Pancreatic cancer has been increasing trend in terms of time. Pancreatic cancer was most common age in the sixth decade of life and is more common in men than women. The most common type of pancreatic cancer was Adenocarcinoma. Diagnosis usually occurs at higher stages. More preventive considerations were found to be beneficial among this population.
Norms and Practices of Gewata Community Toward Maternal and Child Health Services.
Authors: Beharu Mesfin , Ayele Lalisa
Published: June 2021

Background: World Vision Ethiopia is now implementing timely and targeted Counseling, Channel of Hope, Information, Education and communication on Basic Health Service Package using Faith Based Organization with the goal of Contribution in reduction of mothers and New born morbidity and death through further strengthening of the Supportive Supervision and Primary Health Care Unit. The community’s norms, practice, knowledge, accessibility and attitude towards of excellence of service delivered were significant to making choice on utilization of Maternal and Neonate health services. These social gradients apply across family planning, antenatal care assisted delivery and post delivery services.Objective: To assess the norms and practices of Gewata communities toward MCH services during pregnancy, labour and post-partum, South West Ethiopia from March 29- April 20, 2019.Methods: Ethnography study design was employed to describe the norms and practices of Gewata communities toward MCH services during pregnancy, labour and post-partum time. Data were collected through non- probability technique namely in-depth interviews and FGDs. A Total of 14 in-depth interview were and 4 FGD were employed each have 8 members/participants among (Pregnant mothers, Lactating mothers, Health Extension Workers (HEWs) and Health Development Agent Leader (HDAL). Study participants were selected purposively based on maximum variation criteria-based selection. Findings: Currently, it is unhidden reality that the qualities of services, Religious principles, Educational level, Accessibilities of the services, Infrastructure facilities, religious leader perceptions and traditional views have an impact on norms and practice MCH services during pregnancy, delivery and post partum period. On the other hand, the Weradas’ Maternal and Child services are showing some improvements from previous with the improvement of Gewata woreda transportation which mainly indicate impact of infrastructure development on services utilizations. The main tasks ahead include integrating and networking religious healing with modern medical services, improving the underdeveloped medical service infrastructures, improving under developed transportation/road infrastructures and networks, make fit medical services with culture of the community and rising the community’s consciousness of the advantages of Maternal and Child health services.
Molecular Identification and Prevalence of Animal African Trypanosomes Among Cattle Distributed within Jebba Axis of River Niger, Kwara State.
Authors: HABEEB ISSA FUNSHO , CHECHET GLORIA DADA , KWAGA JACOB K. P.
Published: June 2021

Background: Trypanosomiasis is a fatal disease that threatens the economy of at least 37 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa most especially livestock farming. In this study, we sought to investigate the prevalence of trypanosome infection in cattle, the potentials of these livestock as reservoirs of human-infective trypanosomes and the spatial distribution of trypanosome infected herds.Methods: The survey was conducted at the midland between the Northern and Southern part of Nigeria, an area perceived to have harboured migrating animals over the years due to insecurity in the north. A randomized cross-sectional study was conducted along the Jebba axis of river Niger, Kwara state by screening cattle from 36 herd clusters by nested PCR using ITS-1 generic primers. Data generated were analyzed using the Chi square test at 95% confidence interval. Results: Microscopic screening identified 3/398 samples representing 0.75% prevalence while twelve animals, representing 3.02% of the 398 sampled were detected as positive by PCR. Our result showed a decline in the PCV of infected animals (24.7%). The infection rate were categorized as single infection 11/12 (91.67%) and mixed infection 1/12 (8.33%). Animals were more susceptible to Trypanosoma congolense infection (50%) with T. congolense Savannah being the most prevalent Sub-specie (71.4%). Consequently, Trypanosome infections were more prevalent among female animals (4.30%), young animals (10.0%), White Fulani breeds (3.7%), animals with residency period of three years or less (3.18%), Transhumance animals (3.6%), animals with the diseases history (4.05%), animals with no history of drug administration (3.1%), animals close to river Niger (56.2%), larger herds (33.3%) and animals that have travelled to trypanosome endemic areas (50.0%). Aside age and distance of animals from river Niger, statistical difference in every other parameter tested were based on mere probabilistic chance. Spatial data showed that the disease is prevalent among herd located in less than 3Km distance from the river Niger which may represent a key risk factor. Conclusion: It is concluded that our study area may not be classified endemic but the epidemiological significance of this finding is that at least cattle populations may play a vital role in the maintenance and possible resurgence of the disease in the study area.
Correlations and Multivariate Analysis Across Non- Segregation and Segregation Generations in Two Cotton Crosses
Authors: Yehia Waleed , El-Hashash Essam Fathy
Published: June 2021

Background: The cotton crop is one of the most important natural fibers crops for textile manufacture in the world. The present research uses Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multivariate analysis to assess the interrelationships, similarities and dissimilarities among non- segregation (P1, P2 and F1) and segregation (F2, BC1 and BC2) generations for seed cotton yield and yield components in the two crosses Giza 92 x Pima S6 and Giza 93 x C.B. 58.Results: The analysis of variance exhibited highly significant genetic variability among six generations for all studied traits in the two crosses. The F1 performance was higher than the other generations for all the studied traits in the two crosses. The results had positive and high significant correlations between seed cotton yield/plant, lint cotton yield/plant and No. of bolls/plant traits across all six generations in the two crosses. A number of positive correlations were observed among the six generations for all studied traits in the two crosses. The UPGMA hierarchical clustering showed higher level of similarity coefficients among the six generations and among the studied traits. Similarity coefficients ranged from 0.96 to 0.99 and from 0.65 to 0.96, respectively. In the principal component analysis (PCA), the PCA1 extracted had Eigenvalue >1 across six generations for all studied traits in the two crosses. The PCA displayed total variation of 91.84% among the six generations contributed by PCA1 (79.47%) and PCA2 (12.38%) and had mainly distinguished the generations in different groups. The PCA1 and PCA2 were dominated by F1 and segregation generations in the two crosses, respectively, showing high correlations with the first two PCAs. All studied traits as well as boll weight and lint percentage traits contributed positive significant component loadings for the PCA1 and PCA2, respectively. The biplot analysis of the relationship between the six generations revealed that the most appropriate generations for selecting yield traits were F1 in the two crosses and BC1 and BC2 in the cross Giza 93 x C.B. 58. Conclusion: From the obtained results, we recommend considering backcrossing may be done for 2–5 cycles (BC2 – BC5) at C.B. 58 parent for improving Egyptian cotton yield in the future.
Decreasing Boarders in the Emergency Department By Reducing Clerical Work in the Discharge Process of In-Hospital Patients – An Interrupted Time-Series Analysis
Authors: Moroço Diego Marques , Pazin-Filho Antonio
Published: June 2021

Background: Emergency Department (ED) boarding is related to in-hospital patients' discharge. New techniques implemented in hospital institutions, such as digital signature, offer an improvement on these processes.Goals: Evaluate the impact of expediting patient's discharge after medical orders with the number of patients diverted to ED.Methods: We conducted a quasi-experimental study before and after an intervention. It consisted of an encrypted digital signature used to reduce clerical work and expedite the patient's release from the institution after medical discharge. We used Interrupted Time Series Analysis based on administrative data (number of hospital discharge, bed turnover, the time between medical discharge and the appointment's closing) from 2011 to 2019 using.Results: The interrupted time series analysis for the time from medical order to virtually hospital discharge showed an immediate change in level (Coefficient β2 -3.6 hours - 95% confidence interval -3.9; -3.4 - Lag1), but not a difference in the slope of the behavior of the post-intervention curve (β3 0.0005 coefficient - 95% confidence interval -0.0040; 0.0050 - Lag1). For the number of diverged patients to ED, we observed no immediate change in level (Coefficient β2 -0.84 patients - 95% confidence interval -0.33; 0.16 - Lag1), but a difference in the slope of the behavior of the post-intervention curve (β3 0.0005 coefficient - 95% confidence interval -0.0040; 0.0050 - Lag1).Conclusion: Reducing clerical work and so expediting patient discharge was associated with a decrease of potential boarders to ED.
Teachers’ Experiences and Perspectives of Implementing and Use of the Classroom Communication Resource (CCR) Intervention: Post Trial Reflections
Authors: Mallick Rizwana , Kathard Harsha , Thabane Lehana , Pillay Mershen
Published: June 2021

Background: Post-trial interviews were conducted with teachers who administered the Classroom Communication Resource (CCR) intervention to grade 7 learners in a cluster Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT). The intervention addressed teasing and bullying using stuttering and communication as a case example. In alignment with the RCT, the study findings are presented relative to 1. Population, Intervention, Control, Outcome and Timeframe (PICOT); Aim: To describe the teachers’ experiences and reflections of implementing the CCR intervention and the future use of the intervention.Objectives: To describe the teachers’ 1. Suitability of the population at which the CCR was targeted; 2. intervention views including components of the CCR intervention (social story, role-play and discussion), resulting discussion and topics as well as modifications and recommendations; 3. control group researcher observations to contrast findings; 4. outcomes in terms of discussions, behaviour change and teacher observations; 5. time-frame suitability of the CCR. Setting: The Western Cape Metropolitan Urban Area in South Africa. Design: A qualitative exploratory study design was conducted. Teachers, in the intervention groups only, that is those who administered the CCR were interviewed using semi-structured interviews.Participants: Eligible participants included grade 7 teachers from the lower and higher quintile schools who administered the CCR intervention to the grade 7 learners as part of the randomised controlled trial (RCT) study. The participants were not compensated financially for their time. Sample size: A total of six teachers who administered the CCR intervention were interviewed. Analysis: The interviews were transcribed verbatim and a thematic analysis was conducted. The data analysis procedure included: familiarisation with the data and generation of initial codes and categories which were clustered into themes.Results:. Overall, teachers found the CCR suitable for grade 7s (population) as a communication and teasing and bullying centered intervention that could be implemented in future with adaptations as a curriculum-imbedded intervention tool. It was recommended that in terms of timeframe, the CCR be implemented using ongoing and continuous activities within classroom lessons so solidify and consolidate key messages of the intervention. Discussion: This paper showed that extending the RCT was an invaluable and important step in contributing to the main trial findings. The additional layer of findings to the RCT showed that teacher collaboration is important in knowledge production. The paper also showed the need for a shift and the effects thereof on both methodology and paradigms (and vice versa) for knowledge production, clinically and for research. Trial registration: Trails.gov (NCT03111524). Registered on 9 March 2017 prospectively.
Assessment of Viability of Legionella Pneumophila in Environmental Samples: On Filter Application of Ethidium Monoazide Bromide
Authors: Consonni Michela , Grassi Anna , Scuri Stefania , Gori Maria , Tanzi Elisabetta , Tesauro Marina
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Culture method, Real-Time PCR (qPCR) and Ethidium Monoazide Bromide (EMA) qPCR have been compared in order to detect Legionella pneumophila (Lp) in water samples, to identify a method able to speed up the procedures, detect the “viable but not cultivable” bacteria (VBNC) and exclude dead bacteria using a commercial kit for extraction and amplification and modifying the protocol.Methods: Using these three methods, 34 environmental water samples and a series of samples artificially spiked with alive, dead and VBNC Lp ATCC 33152 were analysed. ISO 11731-2-2004 culture method was applied, whereas a commercial kit was selected for both qPCR and EMA qPCR pretreatment.Results: only 35% (12/34) of the environmental samples were positive in both culture and qPCR methods. With regard to EMA qPCR, results showed the absence of dye toxicity on viable and VBNC strains and an incomplete effectiveness on the dead ones. In both viable and VBNC strains a decrease of bacterial DNA amplification was recorded as a function of sample dilution but not of EMA concentration.Conclusions: Discrepancies between culture method and EMA-qPCR were observed and could be due to different causes as membrane-dye interactions, presence of interfering compounds and the relatively low sensitivity of the kit used.Significance and Impact of the Study: In presence of one or more suspected cases of nosocomial legionellosis, the application of a rapid molecular method able to identify only the viable and VBNC Lp would be useful in order to quickly identify the source of infection and to intervene with sanitation treatments. However, because in our experience EMA pretreatment on filter membrane has not given the expected results, it would be necessary to proceed with other experiments and different dyes.
ILRC : A Hybrid Biomarker Discovery Algorithm Based on Improved L1 Regularization and Clustering in Microarray Data
Authors: Yu Kun , Xie Weidong , Wang Linjie , Li Wei
Published: June 2021

Background Finding significant genes or proteins from gene chip data for disease diagnosis and drug development is an important task, and the challenge comes from the curse of the data dimension. It is of great significance to use machine learning methods to find important features from the data and build an accurate classification model.
Results The proposed Method has proved superior to the published advanced hybrid feature selection method and traditional feature selection method on different public microarray data sets. In addition, the results on the cleft lip and palate data set with known biomarkers provided by the cooperative hospital show that compared with other methods, our method can preferentially select these biomarkers.
Method In this paper, a feature selection algorithm ILRC based on clustering and improved L1 regularization is proposed. In this method, the features are first clustered, and the redundant features in the sub-clusters are deleted. Then all the remaining features are iteratively evaluated using ILR, and the final result is output according to the cumulative weight reordering.
Conclusion The proposed method can effectively remove redundant features. The algorithm's output has high stability and classification accuracy and can potentially select potential biomarkers.
Clinico-Epidemiological Characteristics of Pediatric COVID-19 Patients in Bangladesh
Authors: Sarkar Probir Kumar , Ghosh Kinkar , Mobarak Reaz , Kamruzzaman Md , Ahsan Rizwanul , Afroz Shireen , Rahman Maksudur , Akand Nabila , Farzana Nahid , Ashrafi Shah Ali Akbar , Sheefa Maleeha , Nahar Nurun , Ahmed Syed Shafi , Rahman Sheikh Wasik , Macsud Anjim , Hasan Mohammad Jahid
Published: June 2021

Background

To delineate the clinico-epidemiological characteristics of pediatric coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients was the objective of the study.
Method:

This observational study included 290 pediatric patients with a definite diagnosis of COVID-19 admitted to Dhaka Shishu Hospital, Bangladesh, from April 2021 to October 2021. Clinical and epidemiological characteristics were analyzed based on demographic data, medical history, laboratory tests, and outcome information. Data analysis was performed with SPSS 26. Ethical measures were taken in compliance with the current declaration of Helsinki, and final analysis was performed using SPSS 26.
Result

Of all, 42 (14.5%) were neonates (< 28 days), 88 (30.3%) were infants (28 days to < 1 year) and 160 (55.2%) were children (1–17 years). The median age of the children was 18 (0.3–204) months, 58.3% were male, 62% had malnutrition, and presented with various clinical presentations. The main symptoms were fever (5.7%) and breathlessness (20%). Approximately 22% of children were asymptomatic, and 57% had at least one comorbidity. Fever and abdominal pain were predominant presenting symptoms in children compared with neonates and infants (p < .01 for both), while cough and breathlessness were more frequent in infants (p < .01 for both). The infants suffered significantly from neutropenia and lymphocytosis than neonates and children (p < .001 for both). The discharge and death rates were 77.8% with 6.9%. Overall case fatality was higher among neonates than others.
Conclusion

Compared to other pediatric groups, neonatal case fatality was higher, and COVID-19 in neonates, infants, and children has similar epidemiological and clinical manifestations. The findings from this study might help to guide the development of measures to prevent and treat this ongoing global pandemic of these particular age groups.
Riots and Subways: a Relationship Moderated by the Neighborhood’s Income Level
Authors: Cartes Carlos , Asahi Kenzo , Fernández Rodrigo
Published: June 2021

Social disturbances due to socioeconomic and political factors were present in the media during 2019, including places like France, Hong Kong, Chile, Nigeria, Sudan, Haiti, and Lebanon. In October 2019, Chile saw massive demonstrations in the capital city of Santiago. As a result, the cost of damage to infrastructure during the first month of unrest is estimated at US$ 4.6 billion, and the cost to the Chilean economy was about US$ 3 billion, 1.1% of its Gross Domestic Product. This study aims to analyze how the topology of the public transport network affected the locations of the 2019 riots in Santiago. On average, we find a clear association between proximity to the subway network and riot density. This association is significant only in neighborhoods with residents in the highest and lowest income quartiles. When analyzing social unrest and the critical role of public transport, policymakers should consider the crucial role of income in the previous relationship.
Aggravation of fibrin deposition and microthrombus formation within the graft during kidney transplantation
Authors: Berg Tamar A.J. van den , Heuvel Marius C. van den , Wiersema-Buist Janneke , Adelmeijer Jelle , Nieuwenhuijs-Moeke Gertrude J. , Lisman Ton , Bakker Stephan J.L. , Goor Harry van , Pol Robert A.
Published: June 2021

In kidney transplantation, microthrombi and fibrin deposition may lead to local perfusion disorders and subsequently poor initial graft function. Microthrombi are often regarded as donor-derived. However, the incidence, time of development, and potential difference between living donor kidneys (LDK) and deceased donor kidneys(DDK), remains unclear. Two open-needle biopsies, taken at preimplantation and after reperfusion, were obtained from 17 LDK and 28 DDK transplanted between 2005 and 2008. Paraffin-embedded sections were immunohistochemically stained with anti-fibrinogen antibody. Fibrin deposition intensity in peritubular capillaries(PTC) and glomeruli was categorized as negative, weak, moderate or strong and the number of microthrombi/mm2 was quantified. Reperfusion biopsies showed more fibrin deposition (20–100% moderate/strong, p < 0.001) and more microthrombi/mm2 (0.97 ± 1.12 vs. 0.28 ± 0.53, p < 0.01) than preimplantation biopsies. In addition, more microthrombi/mm2 (0.38 ± 0.61 vs. 0.09 ± 0.22, p = 0.02) and stronger fibrin intensity in glomeruli (28% vs. 0%, p < 0.01) and PTC (14% vs. 0%, p = 0.02) were observed in preimplantation DDK than LDK biopsies. After reperfusion, microthrombi/mm2 were comparable (p = 0.23) for LDK (0.09 ± 0.22 to 0.76 ± 0.49, p = 0.03) and DDK (0.38 ± 0.61 to 0.90 ± 1.11, p = 0.07). Upon reperfusion, there is an aggravation of microthrombus formation and fibrin deposition within the graft. The prominent increase of microthrombi in LDK indicates that they are not merely donor-derived.
Female hormones prevent sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction: an experimental randomized study
Authors: Xerri Alexandre , Gallardo Frédéric , Kober Frank , Mathieu Calypso , Fourny Natacha , Tran Thi Thom , Mege Jean-Louis , Singer Mervyn , Lalevée Nathalie , Bernard Monique , Leone Marc
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Although epidemiologic research has demonstrated significant differences in incidence and outcomes of sepsis according to gender, their underlying biological mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we studied the influence of hormonal status by comparing in vivo cardiac performances measured by MRI in non-ovariectomized and ovariectomized septic female rats.Methods: Control and ovariectomized rats were randomly allocated to the following groups: sham, sepsis and sepsis plus landiolol. Sepsis was induced by caecum ligation and punction (CLP). Cardiac MRI was carried out 18 hours after induction of sepsis to assess in vivo cardiac function. Capillary permeability was evaluated by Evans Blue administration and measurement of its tissue extravasation. Variation in myocardial gene expression was also assessed by qPCR in the left ventricular tissue.Results: Sepsis reduced indexed stroke volume, cardiac index and indexed end-diastolic volume compared to sham group in ovariectomized females whereas it had no effect in control females. Landiolol increased the indexed stroke volume by reversing the indexed end-diastolic volume reduction after sepsis in ovariectomized females, while it decreased indexed stroke volume and cardiac index in control. Major differences in the left ventricular expression of genes coding for calcium signalling and contractile proteins were observed in ovariectomized females compared to control after sepsis, partially restored by landiolol. Moreover, in control females, increase of apoptotic genes by sepsis was maintained after landiolol infusion.Conclusions: Sepsis decreased in vivo cardiac performances in ovariectomized females but not in control females, presumably associated with apoptosis and calcium protein-related contractility defects. Administration of landiolol prevents this cardiac dysfunction in ovariectomized females, while it has deleterious effects in control females.
Calculation of erosion scour of cohesive soil
Authors: Виноградов А.Ю. , Зубова О.В. , Парфенов Е.А.
Published: June 2021

Проведен анализ существующих способов оценки размыва грунтов в гидротехнических и водопропускных сооружениях, показывающий, что определение глубины и скорости размыва проводится без учета физических свойств связных грунтов. Таким образом, данные параметры оцениваются по эмпирическим зависимостям и с существенными погрешностями. Опытные данные по размыву связных грунтов доказывают, что большая удельная поверхность и гидрофильность глинистых частиц приводят к разуплотнению и выносу микроагрегатов грунта в поток. Предложена математическая модель расчета глубины размыва связных грунтов в зависимости от касательного напряжения в грунте. Учет показателей сцепления и угла внутреннего трения в данной модели позволит избежать погрешностей в расчетах.

The analysis of existing methods for assessing soil erosion in hydraulic engineering and culverts, showing that the determination of the depth and rate of erosion is carried out without taking into account the physical properties of cohesive soils. Thus, these parameters are estimated using empirical relationships and with significant errors. Experimental data on erosion of cohesive soils prove that the large specific surface area and hydrophilicity of clay particles lead to decompaction and the removal of soil microaggregates into the flow. A mathematical model is proposed for calculating the depth of erosion of cohesive soils depending on the shear stress in the soil. Taking into account the adhesion indicators and the angle of internal friction in this model will avoid errors in the calculations.
Crop and Soil Productivity Response to Corn Residue Removal
Authors: Wilhelm W. W. , Johnson J. M. F. , Hatfield J. L. , Voorhees W. B. , Linden D. R.
Published: June 2021

Society is facing three related issues: overreliance on imported fuel, increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, and producing sufficient food for a growing world population. The U.S. Department of Energy and private enterprise are developing technology necessary to use high‐cellulose feedstock, such as crop residues, for ethanol production. Corn (Zea mays L.) residue can provide about 1.7 times more C than barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), oat (Avena sativa L.), sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) residues based on production levels. Removal of crop residue from the field must be balanced against impacting the environment (soil erosion), maintaining soil organic matter levels, and preserving or enhancing productivity. Our objective is to summarize published works for potential impacts of wide‐scale, corn stover collection on corn production capacity in Corn Belt soils. We address the issue of crop yield (sustainability) and related soil processes directly. However, scarcity of data requires us to deal with the issue of greenhouse gases indirectly and by inference. All ramifications of new management practices and crop uses must be explored and evaluated fully before an industry is established. Our conclusion is that within limits, corn stover can be harvested for ethanol production to provide a renewable, domestic source of energy that reduces greenhouse gases. Recommendation for removal rates will vary based on regional yield, climatic conditions, and cultural practices. Agronomists are challenged to develop a procedure (tool) for recommending maximum permissible removal rates that ensure sustained soil productivity.
Financial Forecasting in Financial Management Strategy: Goals, Objectives, Methods
Authors: Kulakova Aleksandra Vitalevna
Published: June 2021

The activity of the enterprise is inseparable from the adoption of managerial decisions. Forecasting is one of the tools that helps management to assess the future performance. Financial forecasting plays a key role in the development of a company's strategy and is an integral part of financial management. This article discusses the tasks and methods of financial forecasting, as well as the factors on the basis of which the choice of forecasting methodology is made for a successful assessment of the financial position of an enterprise and making the right management decisions.
Theoretical Aspects of the Formation of Dialogical Speech of Preschoolers with General Speech Underdevelopment
Authors: Kobzeva Sofya Vadimovna
Published: June 2021

This article is devoted to the consideration of the theoretical aspects of the formation of dialogical speech in preschool children with general speech underdevelopment. The article examines the essence of dialogic speech, describes the features of the dialogic speech of preschoolers with general speech underdevelopment, offers ideas of activity based on fairy tales for the formation of dialogic speech among preschoolers with general speech underdevelopment.
Organisation of Work on Sensory Development of Children of Junior Preschool Age Through Examination of Visual and Didactic Material
Authors: Koshelchenko Angelina Sergeevna
Published: June 2021

The importance of sensory development in junior preschool age is difficult to overestimate. This age is most optimal for improvement of receptors, accumulation of notions about the world around us. Sensory development is the task of intellectual, aesthetic and physical education. Complete sensory development can occur only in the process of organised sensory education when the notions of form, colour, size and features of different objects and materials, peculiarities of their positioning in space and so on.
Current Problems of the Use of Information and Telecommunication Technologies in Public Administration in the EU Countries
Authors: Bykov Iaroslav Valerievich
Published: June 2021

The article analyzes the problem of using information and telecommunications technologies in the system of public administration in the EU countries. Based on extensive statistical material, the main trends in the use of digital technologies that have begun to have a serious impact on European politics are described. It proves the need to reduce the gap between everyday life (which is firmly embedded in information technology) and traditional practices of public administration.
Distance learning as both a crisis and window of opportunity in student’s perception at Siberian universities
Authors: Trufanov Dmitry O. , Savochkin Dmitry V. , Maltseva Alina D. , Marchenko Tatyana A.
Published: June 2021

The relevance of the topic is related to the need of understanding the positive and negative effects of universities transitioning to distance learning. They should be taken into account in the management of the process of digitalization of education. The aim of this article is to study the perception of students of Siberian universities of the transition to distance learning in 2020. The novelty of our approach to the study of this problem is the use of theoretical premises of the phenomenological paradigm and the ethnomethodological approach. This approach allows revealing the representations of distance learning in the personal reality of students as participants in the educational process. The research method is a semi-formalized in-depth interview. This study involved full-time 2nd-4th year students of three universities of the Krasnoyarsk Region. A total of 24 interviews were conducted. The results show that the majority of students perceived the emergency transition to distance learning as a crisis. The conditions of distance learning came into conflict with the subjective meanings and expectations of students in relation to the educational process. Students express negative assessments of the abrupt transition to distance learning, talk about a decrease in educational motivation, a sense of social deprivation after switching to distance learning. The respondents’ answers indicate the experience of anomie, the blurring of student identity, and the sense of losing the meaning of the educational process. Students with an increased level of subjectivity in educational activities more positively perceived the transition to distance learning and saw in it new opportunities for self-development. They have a higher level of internal motivation to achieve personal educational results, and are able to effectively organize their activities in the context of distance learning. In the course of distance learning, most students have become accustomed to this format: there has been a restructuring of everyday practices, the formation of new dispositions that organize educational activities. Despite this, all respondents consider distance learning as an auxiliary format that complements the traditional classroom form of organizing the educational process. This indicates that at present, digital learning technologies are poorly integrated into the system of higher education, which, according to the authors, has become the main factor in students’ experience of the transition to distance learning as a crisis phenomenon.
The “green economy” as a factor in forming a spiritual and ecological civilization
Authors: Fotieva Irina V.
Published: June 2021

The author analyzes the idea of forming a new spiritual and ecological type of civilization, which attracts the attention of many researchers, in particular, A. V. Ivanov and Yu. V. Popkov, whose paper “Spiritual and ecological civilizational perspective: the value potential of young people in the Siberian context” was published in the previous issue. It is noted that the often encountered skepticism towards this idea, including on the part of young people, is due not so much to objective reasons as to the inability to comprehensively understand the processes taking place in the world, which indicate not only the lack of alternatives to such a civilizational turn at the moment, but also the appearance of signs of this turn. Proving this thesis, based on the formation and development of the “green economy”, is the purpose of this article. Accordingly, the novelty of the study consists in identifying the socio-cultural and moral foundations of the “green economy” and substantiating their role in the global civilizational transformation. The main methods used in this study are: the systemic-structural approach in the analysis of the concept of the “green economy”; socio-philosophical analysis of the problems of consumer ideology (based, first of all, on the works by E. Fromm); the elements of the historical-genetic method when considering the formation of ecological culture. The author emphasizes that the concept of “green economy” has firmly entered the scientific circulation over the past decades, and the phenomena and processes behind it have become a global trend; at the same time, an increasing number of authors consider the “green economy” as uncontested, primarily in connection with the growing global environmental crisis. The main conclusions of the study consist, firstly, in identifying one of the main problems of the development of the “green economy” associated with the slow formation of an ecological worldview and ecological culture. Secondly, the thesis is substantiated that the ecological worldview, in turn, is full and stable only when it is based on more general moral attitudes and values, which underlie the idea of a spiritual and ecological civilization and gradually transform the main spheres of human life activity. Thirdly, it is noted that the formation of this new type of civilizational relations is not guaranteed and requires conscious joint efforts of peoples and countries, without which there is every reason to expect gradual degradation of both the natural environment and society. This is especially significant for Siberia, the increasing role of which in the development of future civilization is becoming increasingly recognized in Russian society.
Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Marcos-Rabal Pilar , González-Fuentes Joaquín , Castro-Vázquez Lucía , Lozano María V. , Rodríguez-Robledo Virginia , Santander-Ortega Manuel J. , Selva-Clemente Jorge , Villaseca-González Noemí , del Mar Arroyo-Jiménez María
Published: June 2021

The rapid pattern of population ageing in recent years increases the risk of appearance of associated
neurodegenerative diseases. Dementias are one of the most feared disorders, and although not necessarily all
elderly people have dementia, the number of people with this disease is increasing rapidly. The causes of dementia
are multiple, and the diagnosis of the different types of dementia is complicated since most patients display
mixed dementias and symptoms overlapping. Personalized diagnosis and treatments would be desirable,
but this requires a deep knowledge of each type of dementia where a multidisciplinary approach would be ideal.
Thus, the aim of this review is to summarize the features of the main types of dementia as well as to compilate
the more recent findings on this subject, ranging from genetic and molecular studies to animal models, including
the use of omics platforms based on powerful hybrid instrumental techniques, and neuroimage techniques.
On the other hand, we consider the aspects that can prevent these disorders and depend on modifiable
factors, such as diet, among others. Finally, new technologies, such as nanotechnology can provide novel strategies
for the administration of effective treatments. In this regard, our purpose is to provide the most updated
and complete overview of state of the art about characteristics of these disorders.