bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eficiência da colagem de madeira tratada de Eucalyptus cloeziana F. Muell para produção de madeira laminada colada (MLC)
Authors: Segundinho Pedro Gutemberg de Alcântara , Gonçalves Fabricio Gomes , Gava Geanine Costa , Tinti Vinícius Peixoto , Alves Sabrina Daré , Regazzi Adair José
Published: June 2017

RESUMO Os setores da construção civil, indústria moveleira, indústria de papel e celulose buscam novas alternativas para uma utilização mais racional da madeira que possam diminuir as limitações de seu uso, a exemplo da produção dos painéis reconstituídos dessa matéria-prima, como compensados, aglomerados de partículas, sarrafos, MLC (Madeira Laminada Colada), entre outros. No presente trabalho buscou-se avaliar a eficiência da colagem em taliscas de madeira de Eucalyptus cloeziana preservadas quimicamente com Arseniato de Cobre Cromatado (CCA). Foram utilizados seis adesivos (MUF: melamina-ureia-formaldeído; PVA: poliacetato de polivinila; RF: resorcinol-formaldeído; TF: tanino-formaldeído; UF: ureia-formaldeído; PUR: poliuretano à base de mamona) e foram realizadas avaliações da interface madeira-adesivo por meio de fotomicrografias, da resistência ao cisalhamento, da porcentagem de falhas na madeira e mensuração da espessura da linha de cola. Para a visualização da interface madeira-adesivo retiraram-se cortes anatômicos de cada posição, plano transversal e plano longitudinal da junta colada, após amolecimento em água quente. Apenas nas taliscas unidas com TF não foi possível avaliar a interface. O CCA contribuiu de forma negativa nas propriedades físicas e mecânicas da madeira. O MUF apresentou os melhores resultados, representados por maiores penetrações do adesivo no material utilizado e consequentemente maiores valores de resistência ao cisalhamento e menores valores de delaminação.
Tratamento térmico de austêmpera em ferro fundido nodular com adições de nióbio e de cromo
Authors: Pimentel Amanda Souza Oliveira , Guesser Wilson Luiz
Published: June 2017

RESUMO O ferro nodular austemperado (ADI) é indicado para aplicações que demandam alta resistência ao desgaste abrasivo. Uma de suas variações é o CADI (Carbidic Austempered Ductile Iron), que contém em sua microestrutura carbonetos eutéticos livres. A adição de nióbio em ferro nodular também resulta em formação de carbonetos, porém mais duros e estáveis do que os carbonetos presentes em CADI. Macroadições de nióbio em ADI mostram-se promissoras. O presente trabalho estudou a influência da adição de nióbio no tratamento de austêmpera. Cinco composições distintas, ferro nodular sem adições, ferro nodular com cromo e ferro nodular com três adições de nióbio, foram austemperadas a duas temperaturas e cinco tempos distintos. Os valores de teor de austenita retida foram estimados por metalografia. A adição de nióbio provocou a formação de carbonetos primários poligonais, ao passo que a adição de cromo provocou a formação de carbonetos de padrão dendrítico encontrados nas regiões intercelulares. Verificou-se que as adições de nióbio e, mais intensamente a de cromo, aumentam o teor de austenita retida resultante do tratamento de austêmpera, bem como alteram a morfologia da microestrutura ausferrítica.
Fuzzy model to estimate the number of hospitalizations for asthma and pneumonia under the effects of air pollution
Authors: Chaves Luciano Eustáquio , Nascimento Luiz Fernando Costa , Rizol Paloma Maria Silva Rocha
Published: June 2017

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE Predict the number of hospitalizations for asthma and pneumonia associated with exposure to air pollutants in the city of São José dos Campos, São Paulo State. METHODS This is a computational model using fuzzy logic based on Mamdani’s inference method. For the fuzzification of the input variables of particulate matter, ozone, sulfur dioxide and apparent temperature, we considered two relevancy functions for each variable with the linguistic approach: good and bad. For the output variable number of hospitalizations for asthma and pneumonia, we considered five relevancy functions: very low, low, medium, high and very high. DATASUS was our source for the number of hospitalizations in the year 2007 and the result provided by the model was correlated with the actual data of hospitalization with lag from zero to two days. The accuracy of the model was estimated by the ROC curve for each pollutant and in those lags. RESULTS In the year of 2007, 1,710 hospitalizations by pneumonia and asthma were recorded in São José dos Campos, State of São Paulo, with a daily average of 4.9 hospitalizations (SD = 2.9). The model output data showed positive and significant correlation (r = 0.38) with the actual data; the accuracies evaluated for the model were higher for sulfur dioxide in lag 0 and 2 and for particulate matter in lag 1. CONCLUSIONS Fuzzy modeling proved accurate for the pollutant exposure effects and hospitalization for pneumonia and asthma approach.
Potentially inappropriate medications among older adults in Pelotas, Southern Brazil
Authors: Lutz Bárbara Heather , Miranda Vanessa Irribarem Avena , Bertoldi Andréa Dâmaso
Published: June 2017

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To assess the use of potentially inappropriate medications among older adults. METHODS This is a population-based cross-sectional study with 1,451 older individuals aged 60 years or more in the city of Pelotas, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in 2014. We have investigated the use of medications in the last 15 days. Using the Beers criteria (2012), we have verified the use of potentially inappropriate medications and their relationship with socioeconomic and demographic variables, polypharmacy, self-medication, and burden of disease. RESULTS Among the 5,700 medications used, 5,651 could be assessed as to being inappropriate. Of these, 937 were potentially inappropriate for the older adults according to the 2012 Beers criteria (16.6%). Approximately 42.4% of the older adults studied used at least one medication considered as potentially inappropriate. The group of medications for the nervous system accounted for 48.9% of the total of the potentially inappropriate medications. In the adjusted analysis, the variables female, advanced age, white race, low educational level, polypharmacy, self-medication, and burden of disease were associated with the use of potentially inappropriate medications. CONCLUSIONS It is important to known the possible consequences of the use of medication among older adults. Special attention should be given to the older adults who use polypharmacy. Specific lists should be created with more appropriate medications for the older population in the National Essential Medicine List.
Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia spp. in dogs from urban areas in Paraiba state, northeastern Brazil
Authors: Rotondano Tereza Emmanuelle de Farias , Krawczak Felipe da Silva , Barbosa Werona de Oliveira , Moraes-Filho Jonas , Bastos Fernanda Nieri , Labruna Marcelo Bahia , Azevedo Sérgio Santos de , Melo Marcia Almeida de , Almeida Alzira Maria Paiva de
Published: June 2017

Abstract The aims of our study was to identify Ehrlichia canis and antibodies against Rickettsia spp. belonging to the spotted fever group (SFG) in dogs sampled from Paraiba state, northeastern Brazil. Blood and serum samples collected by convenience from dogs in urban areas of five municipalities were analyzed by real-time PCR for the detection of E. canis DNA and by immunofluorescence assay test (IFAT) for the identification of antibodies against Rickettsia rickettsii, R. felis, R. parkeri, R. amblyommii and R. rhipicephali antigens. E. canis DNA was detected in 8.9% (64/719) of the blood samples, whereas 5.63% (43/763) of the serum samples were positive for at least one of the Rickettsia antigens tested by IFAT. This study showed for the first time the occurrence of E. canis and suggested the circulation of SFG Rickettsia in dogs in the study region of Paraiba state, northeastern Brazil.
Risk factors associated with Toxoplasma gondii infection in free-range chickens in the semiarid region of Brazil
Authors: Sá Silvio Gomes de , Ribeiro-Andrade Müller , Silva Luana Thamires Rapôso , Souza Neto Orestes Luiz de , Lima Débora Costa Viegas , Pedrosa Camila de Moraes , Bezerra Mauro José Gonçalves , Mota Rinaldo Aparecido
Published: June 2017

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the frequency of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in serum from 629 chickens on 39 family farms in seven municipalities in the semiarid region, Pernambuco, Brazil, and to identify risk factors associated with T. gondii infection. The risk factors were studied in 421 samples from 29 farms. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were investigated by indirect fluorescent antibody test with a 1:16 cutoff. The frequency of positive chickens was 27.9% (176/629) and 94.8% of the farms studied had chickens infected by T. gondii. Multivariate analysis showed variables significantly associated with anti-T. gondii antibodies in serum: slaughter of animals on the farm, reproductive disorders in sheep, consumption of fetal adnexa and placentas by chickens, presence of sheep in the property and birth of sheep the property. The results suggest that there is a complex relationship between general management practices for different animal species raised on the same farm and the prevalence of T. gondii infection in chickens. In addition, the results draw attention to the risk of human infection by T. gondii via consumption of infected chicken meat, because the farming conditions and the low human development indices observed in the region studied result in inappropriate meat preparation practices.
Contact angle measurement on rough surfaces: the missing link
Authors: Cwickel Dory , Paz Yaron , Marmur Abraham
Published: June 2017

Wettability of rough surfaces is critical for many processes and materials. The most prevalent technique for characterizing wettability is the measurement of contact angles. Unfortunately, the routine assessment of wettability by contact angle measurement is not as simple as it appears to be. The main reason is that most real surfaces are characterized by a range of seemingly stable contact angles, and not by a single value. Moreover, the technique of contact angle measurement has not been updated to utilize current theoretical understanding with regard to the most stable state of the drop and its symmetry. Here we experimentally demonstrate the validity of the theoretical observation that a sufficiently large drop must be axisymmetric at the most stable thermodynamic state of the system. This is the link missing in current methodology between the measurement of the apparent contact angle and its interpretation in terms of the ideal (Young) contact angle.
Effects of Intensive BP Control in CKD
Authors: Cheung Alfred K. , Rahman Mahboob , Reboussin David M. , Craven Timothy E. , Greene Tom , Kimmel Paul L. , Cushman William C. , Hawfield Amret T. , Johnson Karen C. , Lewis Cora E. , Oparil Suzanne , Rocco Michael V. , Sink Kaycee M. , Whelton Paul K. , Wright Jackson T. , Basile Jan , Beddhu Srinivasan , Bhatt Udayan , Chang Tara I. , Chertow Glenn M. , Chonchol Michel , Freedman Barry I. , Haley William , Ix Joachim H. , Katz Lois A. , Killeen Anthony A. , Papademetriou Vasilios , Ricardo Ana C. , Servilla Karen , Wall Barry , Wolfgram Dawn , Yee Jerry ,   for the SPRINT Research Group
Published: June 2017

The appropriate target for BP in patients with CKD and hypertension remains uncertain. We report prespecified subgroup analyses of outcomes in participants with baseline CKD in the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial. We randomly assigned participants to a systolic BP target of <120 mm Hg (intensive group; n=1330) or <140 mm Hg (standard group; n=1316). After a median follow-up of 3.3 years, the primary composite cardiovascular outcome occurred in 112 intensive group and 131 standard group CKD participants (hazard ratio [HR], 0.81; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.63 to 1.05). The intensive group also had a lower rate of all-cause death (HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.53 to 0.99). Treatment effects did not differ between participants with and without CKD (P values for interactions ≥0.30). The prespecified main kidney outcome, defined as the composite of ≥50% decrease in eGFR from baseline or ESRD, occurred in 15 intensive group and 16 standard group participants (HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.44 to 1.83). After the initial 6 months, the intensive group had a slightly higher rate of change in eGFR (−0.47 versus −0.32 ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year; P<0.03). The overall rate of serious adverse events did not differ between treatment groups, although some specific adverse events occurred more often in the intensive group. Thus, among patients with CKD and hypertension without diabetes, targeting an SBP<120 mm Hg compared with <140 mm Hg reduced rates of major cardiovascular events and all-cause death without evidence of effect modifications by CKD or deleterious effect on the main kidney outcome.
Bacterial Cryopreservation v1
Authors: Steven Wilhelm Dr.
Published: June 2017

Please contact Dr. Steven Wilhelm (wilhelm@utk.edu) for additional information regarding this protocol.
Promoting school efficiency: Dutch school doctors and the meaning of child health (1930-1970)
Authors: Bakker Nelleke
Published: June 2017

This paper explores the meaning of child health as applied by Dutch school doctors and the way it was adapted to the rapidly improving standard of living and the increasing importance of mental health after World War II. It focuses on both the national discourse and school doctors’ daily activities. For the latter the countryside of the Province of Groningen, a relatively poor area, is chosen. Despite assertions that their profession subscribed to a new, positive and inclusive, concept of health, introduced by the WHO in 1948, the Groningen school doctors continued to use a negative concept of a “healthy” schoolchild until well after world War II. It was a child that was not bothered by diseases or infirmities or any other “abnormalities”. They clung to the original aim of school medical inspection: the promotion of the school’s efficiency by the reduction of possible dangers threatening pupils’ learning capacity. In the postwar years these threats were more often found in an unfavorable school climate, with too large classes and too much intellectual work, producing “mental overburdening”. In doing so they made their concept of health more inclusive by linking up physical and mental health.ResumenEste trabajo explora el significado de la salud infantil, aplicado por los médicos escolares holandeses entre 1930 y 1970, y la forma en que ello reflejó el rápido aumento del nivel de vida y la creciente importancia de la salud mental después de la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Este se centra tanto en el discurso nacional como en las actividades diarias de los médicos escolares. En relación a este último, se ha estudiado la zona rural de la provincia de Groningen. A pesar de las afirmaciones de que su profesión se había adherido a un concepto nuevo, positivo e inclusivo de la salud, introducido por la Organización Mundial de la Salud en 1948, los médicos escolares de Groningen continuaron utilizando un concepto negativo de escolares «sanos» hasta mucho después de la Segunda Guerra Mundial: un niño o niña que no había estado afectado por enfermedades o dolencias o cualquier otra "anormalidad". Estos se aferraban al objetivo original de la inspección médica escolar: la promoción de la eficiencia escolar mediante la reducción de las posibles amenazas a la capacidad de aprendizaje del alumnado. En los años de la posguerra, los médicos escolares a menudo asociaban estas amenazas con un clima escolar desfavorable. Las clases excesivamente grandes y las fuertes cargas académicas se consideraron factores que conducían a la "sobrecarga mental." Por lo tanto, los doctores escolares cambiaron su concepto de la salud al vincular salud física a salud mental para que este fuera más inclusivo.
Perspectives on Human Trafficking and Modern Forms of Slavery
Authors: Kara Siddharth
Published: June 2017

Migration, technology, law, and measurement are each among the most topical areas of enquiry in the global human trafficking field, with much work remaining to be done in these and other areas. Beneath these particular intersections lies a crucial truth—slavery is a global business that thrives on the callous exploitation of the labor activity of a vast and highly vulnerable subclass of people whose brutalization is tacitly accepted by every participant in the global economy, from corporations to consumers. I am deeply gratified to edit Social Inclusion’s second issue on human trafficking and modern slavery. The level of scholarly interest in these topics continues to grow, and in this issue the authors explore some of the most pressing manifestations of human trafficking around the world.
Identifying Victims of Human Trafficking at Hotspots by Focusing on People Smuggled to Europe
Authors: Ventrella Matilde
Published: June 2017

Research has shown that smuggling of migrants is associated with human trafficking. Hence, victims of human trafficking amongst smuggled migrants should be identified by EU Member States at hotspots established by the European Commission, to overcome the migrant and refugee crisis. Identified victims should be given a visa and a programme of protection to escape their traffickers. In order to achieve these objectives, research suggests that EU law on migrant smuggling should be amended and the Temporary Protection Directive should be applied to smuggled persons when there is an indication that they may be victims of human trafficking. This approach should be adopted by the EASO in cooperation with police forces investigating smuggling and trafficking at hotspots.
Trafficking and Syrian Refugee Smuggling: Evidence from the Balkan Route
Authors: Mandic Danilo
Published: June 2017

As of March 2016, 4.8 million Syrian refugees were scattered in two dozen countries by the civil war. Refugee smuggling has been a major catalyst of human trafficking in the Middle East and Europe migrant crises. Data on the extent to which smuggling devolved into trafficking in this refugee wave is, however, scarce. This article investigates how Syrian refugees interact with smugglers, shedding light on how human smuggling and human trafficking interrelated on the Balkan Route. I rely on original evidence from in-depth interviews (n = 123) and surveys (n = 100) with Syrian refugees in Jordan, Turkey, Greece, Serbia, and Germany; as well as ethnographic observations in thirty-five refugee camps or other sites in these countries. I argue that most smugglers functioned as guides, informants, and allies in understudied ways—thus refugee perceptions diverge dramatically from government policy assumptions. I conclude with a recommendation for a targeted advice policy that would acknowledge the reality of migrant-smuggler relations, and more effectively curb trafficking instead of endangering refugees.
Neural mobilization as a therapeutic option in the treatment of stroke.
Authors: Santos Alan Carlos Nery dos , Goes Ana Cristina Gusmão de , Lago Rodrigo Medina Vasconcelos , Petto Jefferson
Published: June 2017

Introduction: The neural mobilization is a technique aimed at functional recovery of the nervous system and structures innervated by it. However, little is known about its effects in patients affected by stroke (CVA). Objective: To review and integrate studies that investigated the effects of neural mobilization (NM) in the treatment of patients with stroke. Method: an integrative review of scientific studies with primary and secondary data, both addressing the NM in the treatment of spasticity, flexibility and functionality of stroke patients. The review was carried out by independent authors from July to October 2014. databases were consulted: LILACS, PEDRO, PUBMED and SCIELO. For the selection of manuscripts, we used the following key words: Neural Mobilization, Neurodynamics Mobilization, neurodynamic tests, stroke, spasticity Muscle, joint range of motion, flexibility and their counterparts in English. Studies were screened by reading the titles and objectives. Then deleted resumes in duplicate and performed the reading of articles to verify that met the inclusion criteria. Results: Six studies were selected, one being reviewed. In general, all the research has investigated the effects of NM in stroke patients. Four of the six articles were published in English. Only one study used a control group. As for treatment, there was divergence in relation to the NM application protocol. Conclusion: The reviewed studies indicate beneficial effects of neural mobilization in the control of muscle tone, range of motion and functionality of patients affected by stroke.
Essential phospholipids use in the treatment of drug-induced liver injury in pregnant women
Authors: Palgova Liudmila K , Borisova Irina V , Zhestkova Natalia V , Tarasova Marina A
Published: June 2017

The aim of the study was evaluation the efficiency of essential phospholipids for the treatment of drug-induced liver disease in pregnant women. In the research group included 67 pregnant women with clinical and biochemical manifestations of drug-induced cytolytic syndrome, 58 pregnant women (the main group) were treated with hepatoprotectors, 9 women (the control group) the treatment of essential phospholipids wasn’t carried out. Patients of both groups were eliminated hormonal drugs and other drugs or their dosage is reduced as much as possible. Drug liver disease in pregnancy is manifested by increased transaminase, in some cases accompanied by increased level of gamma glutamyl transpeptidase, liver glutamate dehydrogenase. Against the background of the treatment in both groups decrease in transaminases have been reported. But the rate of decline of aminotransferases was differed, so in the main group decrease of ALT and AST was occurred faster than in the control group.
Demographic indicators of fertility and medico-social influenses on them
Authors: Irina S Lunyova , Ivanova Oksana Ju , Khardikov Aleksander V , Ivanova Tatyana S , Abrosimova Natalya V
Published: June 2017

Aim. For the past hundred years, changes in the dynamics of fertility has been terrific in Russia, the transition has been from traditional to new, modern type of reproductive behavior. The purpose of the study. To study the demographic indicators of fertility and social factors affecting these figures in the Kursk and Belgorod regions for 25 years (1990-2015).

Materials and methods. Based on annual statistical data of RosStat, we researched the dynamics of fertility in the Kursk and Belgorod regions between 1990 and 2015. According to the survey of 1291 women aged 20-34 years living in Kursk, we gave the major factors influencing on the fertility and childlessness.

Results. In the Kursk and Belgorod regions from 1990 to 2000 there is a decrease in the birth rate 34.7% and 38%, respectively, with a minimum value in 2000 (р > 0,05). But in the period from 2000 to 2015 there is an increase of this index in Kursk region 50.6%, in Belgorod – by 43.8%, in Russia – 52.9% (р > 0.05), but the birth rate has not reached the 1990 data and remains below the national average. The increase in the birth rate due to increase in births of the second and subsequent children, mostly in rural areas. At the same time, the total fertility rate, which is calculated for the total population, in rural areas recorded significantly lower than in the city. This is due to a lower proportion of residents of reproductive age in the total population of the village compared with the city. Between 1990 and 2015 significantly increases the share of births over the age of 25 and decreases in the age range 18-24 years.

Conclusion. It is proved that the birth rate is governed by the number of marriages, with the ratio of male and female population of reproductive age, maternal mortality.
Ovarian cancer: current approaches to classification, diagnostics, staging and differential management of patients
Authors: Solopova Antonina G , Bitsadze Victoria O , Solopova Alina E , Makatsariya Aleksandr D , Rozanov Ivan A
Published: June 2017

Purpose of this study: systematic analysis of the data available in the modern scientific medical literature on contemporary aspects of the diagnosis, staging and differential treatment tactics of patients with epithelial ovarian tumors.

Research method used in this article is the systematic analysis of the medical literature, both domestic and western.

Results. This article attempts to summarize the experience of modern medicine and the world’s leading centers for the fight against ovarian cancer of epithelial origin and offer solutions relevant to everyday clinical practice. Problems of the modern classification of forms of the disease are described in detail; description of instrumental diagnostic methods also is given in thus article; problem of lack of effective proved themselves in clinical practice of screening methods also was disccused; and, thus, current understanding of the disease staging and differential tactics for treatment of patients are given.

Conclusion. One of the most important directions of development of gynecological oncology is a decision the existing problems related to the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer: namely, the development of effective screening programs, improving diagnosis and therapy methods, the development of measures of postoperative management of patients with ovarian cancer, including medical rehabilitation measures.
Prospects of metformin in the treatment of endometriosis
Authors: Florova Margarita S , Yarmolinskaya Mariya I , Potin Vladimir V
Published: June 2017

According to recent year studies, the classical biguanide metformin has antiproliferative, proapoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects in addition to the main hypoglycemic effect. There are clinical and experimental studies these effects in the therapy of oncological and benign hyperplastic diseases. There is no data about the clinical efficacy of metformin in the therapy of endometriosis in the domestic literature, and there were a few studies in foreign sources. There was a decrease in the severity of the pain syndrome and an increase of pregnancy rate in two clinical studies with small samples. However, future studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms of the target drug effect and to develop effective regimens for the treatment of endometriosis.
Efficacy of leucosapphire drainage implant use in IOP-lowering surgery in patients with refractory glaucoma
Authors: Naumenko Vladimir V , Pravosudova Marina M , Kladko Marina A
Published: June 2017

Aim. to evaluate the efficacy of leucosapphire explantodrainage implantation in IOP-lowering surgery in patients with refractory course of glaucoma.

Materials and methods. An analysis of surgical treatment results of 58 patients (60 eyes) with refractory glaucoma of different nature was performed. In 29 cases (29 eyes), at IOP-lowering procedure, a leucosapphire drainage was implanted. In 29 cases (31 eyes), standard deep sclerectomy was performed. We estimated immediate and long-term IOP-lowering and functional results of surgeries, as well as complication frequency and character. The follow-up of patients was from 1 to 8 years.

Results. In the first week after surgery, mean IOP after implantation of leucosapphire drainage decreased from 32.4 0.7 to 14.8 1.0 mm Hg (by Maklakov 10 g tonometry), and from 30.8 0.9 to 16.4 1.0 mm Hg after deep sclerectomy. After 12 months, mean IOP was 20.5 0.9 mm Hg and 24.6 1.2 mm Hg in patients who underwent leucosapphire drainage implantation and deep sclerectomy, respectively. By that time, IOP was stabilized in 89.6% of cases after leucosapphire drainage implantation (in 37.9% without additional therapy) and in 61.3% (16.1% without additional therapy) after deep sclerectomy. Perimetry data were ameliorated or stabilized in 69.0% of cases after implantation of leucosapphire drainage and in 48.3% after deep sclerectomy.

Conclusion. The implantation of leucosapphire drainage device is an effective treatment method for patients with refractory glaucoma forms. It provides better IOP control in the late postoperative period in comparison with a traditional technique of glaucoma surgery. The frequency and character of complications were comparable in both groups.
Botulinum therapy in post-traumatic strabismus and diplopia treatment
Authors: Filippova Olga A , Hat´kova Svetlana E
Published: June 2017

In the article, a first-hand experience of paretic post-traumatic strabismus treatment using botulinum toxin type A is presented. Analysis of strabismus angle alteration and of diplopia severity has been performed.
Differential diagnosis of dirofilariasis of the lower lid: a clinical case from Ophthalmological diagnostic center no. 7 for children and adults, Saint Petersburg
Authors: Astakhov Yury S , Sokolov Vitaly O , Morozova Natalya V , Skorobogatov Yuriy V , Drobyshevskaya Ekaterina N , Morozov Mikhail A
Published: June 2017

We present a brief literature review on dirofilariasis and its incidence in Russia. The diagnosis and operative treatment of a patient with dirofilariasis caused by infection with Dirofilaria repens is described. The diagnostic criteria (epidemiological analysis, ultrasonographic, and laboratory-based and parasitological work-up) are presented. Ultrasonography plays an important role in the differential diagnosis of dirofilariasis and cavernous hemangiomas. Different non-surgical and surgical treatment approaches are discussed.
Assessment of regional fibrinolytic activity of tear fluid by determining the levels of D-dimer in patients with retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Moshetova Larisa K , Kosyrev Aleksandr B , Tsikhonchuk Tatiana V , Yarovaya Galina A , Turkina Kseniya I , Neshkova Elena A
Published: June 2017

First defined level of D-dimer in the tear fluid in order to assess regional fibrinolytic activity in patients with retinal vein occlusion. It is shown that normally the level of D-dimer in tear fluid significantly higher than in blood plasma. It has been found to have elevated levels of D-dimer tear fluid in patients with CRVO and BRVO, which may indicate the activation of fibrinolysis, as a component of the inflammatory response. In appointing the anticoagulant and fibrinolytic therapy have a tendency to normalization of D-dimer in the tear fluid.
Reconstructive surgery of post-burn cicatricial ectropion of upper and lower eyelid
Authors: Nuraeva Aуgul B
Published: June 2017

In the article, an outcome analysis of post-burn upper and lower eyelid ectropion repair in 27 patients (49 cases) is presented. The study group included 31 cases (15 males, 2 females, aged 16-67), the control group consisted of 18 cases (5 males, 5 females, aged 2-52). Patients from the control group underwent free skin grafting of upper and lower eyelids. Patients from the study group underwent combined surgery using two different types of Alloplant biomaterial: allogenous tendon fibres and transplant for eyelid plasty. The operation results were assessed by change in ectropion grade, lagophthalmos and interpalpebral width.
Comparison of visual function and patient satisfaction with AcrySof ReSTORSN6AD1 multifocal intraocular compared to monofocal intraocular lenses 5
Authors: Alchinova Aisa S , Morina Ksenia Yu , Rakhmanov Vyacheslav V , Potemkin Vitaly V , Khripun Kirill V , Meshveliani Elena V , Ageeva Elena V
Published: June 2017

Aim. To compare visual function and satisfaction in patients after implantation of AcrySof ReSTOR SN6AD1 multifocal intraocular lens (IOL), AcrySof SA60AТ spherical monofocal IOL, or Akreos АО aspheric monofocal IOL during cataract surgery.

Materials. Overall, 34 patients received SN6AD1 multifocal (group 1, 48 eyes), 19 patients received Akreos АО monofocal aspheric (group 2, 30 eyes), and 13 patients received AcrySof SA60AТ monofocal spherical (group 3, 18 eyes) IOL. Patients with multifocal IOL were closely matched for age, sex, and ocular findings with patients who had monofocal IOL implantation. Six months postoperatively, uncorrected/corrected distance visual acuity (UDVA/CDVA), uncorrected intermediate (60 cm) and near (35 cm) visual acuity (UNVA), defocus curve, contrast sensitivity, and a quality-of-life questionnaire were evaluated. Furthermore, independence from glasses and presence of optical phenomena were assessed.

Results. Patients in group 2 had statistically significant increase in UDVA than that in group 1 (p = 0.037). There was no significant difference in the mean uncorrected intermediate and best corrected distance visual acuities between the groups. UNVA was better in group 1 than that in groups 2 and 3 (p 0.0001). Photopic contrast sensitivity for high spatial frequencies was better in groups 2 and 3. Glare was reported in 5.9% of patients in group 1. Halos occurred in 32.4% of patients in group 1. No one reported undesirable visual symptoms in groups 2 and 3.

Conclusion. Multifocal IOLs provided higher spectacle independence and satisfactory functional vision over a broad range of distances but were associated with increased subjective visual symptoms and reduced photopic contrast sensitivity for high spatial frequencies and distance visual quality compared with monofocal IOLs.
Ocular neovascular-related diseases: immunological mechanisms of development and the potential of anti-angiogenic therapy
Authors: Gadzhieva Banovsha K
Published: June 2017

The paper adresses three ocular diseases - “wet” type of age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema and neovascular glaucoma, which have similar neovascular changes and immunological disorders. The key moment of neovascularization development is an imbalance between pro- and anti-angiogenic factors. Particular attention is paid to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A), pigment epithelial derived factor (PEDF), transforming growth factor-beta (ТGF-β). The paper discusses the “immune privilege” of the eye, ACAID phenomenon, aspects of choroidal neovascularization pathogenesis, inflammation as an important part of neovascularization and the protective response to endogenous and exogenous damage, as well as complement system’s disorders, cytokine status impairment and autoimmune mechanisms. Laser treatment is widely used for treatment of neovascular diseases, but pharmacotherapy is very important too. Anti-angiogenic therapy is extremely promising and is held to provide regression of the newly-formed vasculature and/or normalization of newly formed blood vessels structure and suppress the functional activity of a key proangiogenic factor VEGF-A. Pegaptanib, ranibizumab and bevacizumab are discussed, and results of international clinical trials MARINA, ANCHOR, FOCUS, PrONTO, IVAN, CATT, RESTORE are provided.
Trehalose efficacy in dry eye syndrome treatment after phacoemulsification
Authors: Astakhov Sergey Yu , Tkachenko Natalia V
Published: June 2017

Purpose to estimate the efficacy of “artificial tear” preparation on the trehalose base in dry eye syndrome treatment in cataract patients after phacoemulsification.Materials and methods: in 40 patients with incipient cataract phacoemulsification with IOL implantation was performed. During 1 week, all patients received eye gel with dexpanthenol in addition to postoperative therapy. Then, all patients were divided into two groups (randomization using envelopes): in the main group, the gel was replaced by Thealoz®, in the control group, the gel was discontinued. Special investigation tests (OSDI score, TBUT test, conjunctival hyperemia, corneal confocal tomography) were performed before surgery, in one week and one month after it. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS 9.4 program.Results: all investigated parameters had significant differences with time and between groups (р 0.001). TBUT test result decreased in one week after surgery from 7.4 ± 2.1 to 4.6 ± 1.9 sec in the main group and from 7.5 ± 2.3 to 4.4 ± 2 sec in the control group. Return to baseline results in the control group was slowed down and made 6.4 ± 2.8 sec (compared with 7.9 ± 2.4 sec in the main one). In the trehalose group, OSDI score ameliorated from 35.1 ± 8.7 (in one week) to 14.2 ± 5.3 (in one month), in the control group, from 40.1 ± 11.5 to 24.8 ± 9. Conjunctival hyperemia was also less pronounced in the main group in one month after surgery: 0.45 ± 0.6 (1.6 ± 0.7 in one week), in the control group, these indices were equal to 1.7 ± 0.5 (in one week) and 1.3 ± 0.7 (in one month).Conclusions: Thealoz® use as a part of combined postoperative therapy helps to effectively fight against dry eye syndrome main signs and enhances treatment tolerance.
Status of family planning service delivery for people living with HIV at public hospital settings in Maharashtra: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Joshi Beena N. , Girase Bhushan A. , Kulkarni Ragini N. , Begum Shahina
Published: June 2017

Background: HIV testing and treatment of seropositive pregnant mothers is a much focused and efficiently managed programme as part of convergence plan between National AIDS Control Program and Reproductive and Child Health services under National Health Mission. This paper aims to depict the level of convergence that exists for another most important reproductive health service namely family planning (FP) for PLHIV at public healthcare settings in Maharashtra. Methods: Participatory observations of HIV, FP and STI facilities and key informant interviews of providers at these facilities located in selected secondary (two district hospitals) and tertiary (two teaching hospitals) public hospitals in Maharashtra were conducted as part of larger intervention study. Results: Insufficient health workforce with inadequate knowledge about PLHIV’s eligibility for contraception and discriminated service delivery (25%) was prominent. Only half (50%) key informants were conversant about FP counseling to PLHIV. One-fourth (27%) informants presumed contraceptives as either harmful or contraindicated to PLHIVs. Indenting and supply of FP commodities was extremely inopportune and irregular. More than half of the respondents highlighted many constraints such as no guidelines on convergence, lack of appropriate counseling skills; low staff motivation; inadequate IEC material on dual protection; lack of FP indicators in MIS; over-occupied staff hours; and inadequate M&E for HIV-FP linkages. Conclusions: Despite challenges, sensitizing and training health workforce to eliminate stigma discrimination; reduce delay in service delivery; and improving monitoring of inter-sectoral convergence activities are needed to improve access to reproductive health services for PLHIVs.
Evolocumab: rising momentum as novel antidyslipidemic drug
Authors: Mehani Rekha , Shukla Ajay , Yadav V. K. , Sahu Rimjhim
Published: June 2017

Increased levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol are responsible for the major cardiovascular events. Low density lipoprotein cholesterol reduction has proved to be highly effective in reducing the risk of major cardiovascular (CV) events in various trials. ACC/AHA guidelines recommend lipid-lowering therapy for patients with known cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Statins are the gold standard treatment for all types hypercholeterolemia but still there is need of some other lipid-lowering therapies especially in patients with statin intolerance and in patients responding inadequately to statins. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) was discovered in 2003 and subsequently emerged as a novel target for LDLC-lowering therapy. Evolocumab is a fully human monoclonal immunoglobulin G2 (IgG2) directed against human PCSK9. Evolocumab binds to PCSK9 enzyme rendering it unable to bind to the LDLR. More LDLR are available to bind to LDLC. Evolocumab increase the density of LDLR on the surface of hepatocytes, thereby increasing the uptake of LDL particles and decreasing the LDLC in the blood. Evolocumab has proved its efficacy with LDLC reduction from 53% to 75% and associated with minor side effects. Evolocumab has corroborated its effectiveness in reduction in the levels of LDLC. This drug has shown efficacy in heterozygous and homozygous subtypes of familial hypercholesterolemia. Statin intolerance seen in about 15% of all patients restricts the use of first line drug for dyslipidemia. Evolocumab can be a useful option in statin intolerant patients and in patients responding inadequately to statins.
Self medication practice and associated factors at the regional hospital Bamenda, Cameroon: a prospective study
Authors: Teke Gerald Ngo , Nde Sirri Letisia , Suh Mary Bi
Published: June 2017

Background: Due to paucity of studies on the prevalence and pattern of self medication among Cameroonians and particularly dwellers of Bamenda City, in this research was undertaken to study the practice of self-drug administration among adult out patients at the Regional Hospital Bamenda; identify potential factors influencing self-medication practices; sources of drugs and/or information about medications and finally the reasons for self-drug administration.Methods: Participants (200) of age 18 years and above who came for external consultation during the study period were sampled conveniently after giving their consent. They were administered questionnaires on self-medication practices. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 19.0.Results: The prevalence of self-medication in this study was 86.50% (173/200). The females were more involved in the practice of self-medication (88.18%) than males (85.54%). Participants from deferent occupations had used various classes of drugs through self initiative. Analgesics were most commonly used (84.39%). This was followed by antimalarials (52.60%) and antibiotics (41.62%). While the least represented was the class of laxatives (1.73%). The factors promoting self medication practices were mainly due to mild nature of illness (36.50%) and longtime spent to see the doctor (22.50%). The leading source of information on self-medication prescription and administration came from doctors (78.61%) and pharmacists (34.42%). Over the counter drugs were the most commonly purchased from private pharmacies (76.88%).Conclusions: Self-medication is an important health issue in this area. This study shows the necessity to educate the public on health education and make regulation of pharmacies in limiting self-medication practices.
Drug schedules: knowledge among undergraduate medical students in a government medical college in Eastern India
Authors: Sur Tania , Sengupta Parama , Mandal Ananya , Das Nina
Published: June 2017

Background: In India many of the prescription only drugs (Schedule H) are available without prescription, leading to injudicious use, incidences of dangerous drug interactions, and unnecessary economic burden. Thus awareness among healthcare professionals and among common public are equally important. Objective was to assess the knowledge among undergraduate medical students in a government medical college in Eastern India regarding drug schedules in India.Methods: Willing 3rd semester and 5th semester students participated in the study. We used a pre-tested validated two-part questionnaire to assess the knowledge of undergraduate medical students regarding different drug schedules.Results: 5th semester students gave significantly higher correct answers (P<0.0001) regarding awareness about Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940, different drug schedules in India, expiry period, guidelines for maintaining the details of standards for patent and proprietary medicines, guidelines regarding import and manufacture of new drugs, guidelines regarding import and manufacture of new drugs, any special license is required for the manufacture and sale of psychotropic drugs, drugs marketed only under “generic name”, guideline regarding pack size of drugs, and guidelines regarding good manufacturing practice (GMP)?. Analysis of second set of questionnaires revealed that the 5th semester students identified the different drug categories more correctly compared to the 3rd semester students.Conclusions: Doctors are one of the principle and reliable sources of drug information for the general population. Thus, it becomes relevant that the undergraduate medical students should regularly brush up their knowledge regarding drug regulations even after passing Pharmacology examination in the later years of training.
Effect of amlodipine on blood glucose level in euglycemic and streptozotocin induced diabetic Albino rats and its pharmacodynamic interaction with glibenclamide
Authors: Gari Manju , Debbarma Rati Ranjan , Majhee Lakhan , Choudhury Subhankar
Published: June 2017

Background: Diabetes is one of the largest global health emergencies of the 21st century and its co-existence with hypertension is frequent. These conditions often require polypharmacy with possible risk of drug interaction. This study is conducted to investigate the effect of amlodipine on blood glucose level in euglycemic and diabetic rats and its pharmacodynamic interaction with glibenclamide.Methods: Rats were divided into six groups of 6 rats in each group. Group 1 and 3 were non-diabetic given 1% Gum acacia and amlodipine respectively. Group 2, 4, 5 and 6 were made diabetic by using nicotinamide and streptozotocin injection intra peritoneally and given 1% Gum acacia, glibenclamide, amlodipine and amlodipine + glibenclamide respectively for the period of 28 days. Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) levels were measured before induction of diabetes, 72 hrs after the induction, on day 0, 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th day.Results: Amlodipine produced no significant effect on FBG level in non-diabetic rats but in diabetic rats statistically significant hyperglycemia were observed on day 21st and 28th of study with the ‘p’ value (<0.05). Glibenclamide treated rats shows better controlled FBG level throughout study than concomitant administration of glibenclamide with amlodipine. Significant rise in blood FBG level with ‘P’ value (<0.05) were observed in amlodipine + glibenclamide treated group on 21st and 28th day of study.Conclusions: This study suggest amlodipine produce no effect on the FBG level of normal rats but causes significant hyperglycemia in diabetic rats. Hypoglycemic effect of glibenclamide gets blunted when co-administered with amlodipine.
Cost variation analysis of various brands of anti-epileptic drugs currently available in Indian pharmaceutical market
Authors: Allisabanavar Saiyadali A. , S. Narayana Reddy
Published: June 2017

Background: Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder affecting about 10 million persons in India. The compliance to a particular antiepileptic drug is highly dependent on the cost of the drug which directly translates into success or failure of therapy. Hence there is a need for all clinicians to keep themselves updated with the latest prices and price variation of the commonly prescribed drugs. This study aims to analyze cost variation of various brands of anti-epileptic drugs currently available in Indian pharmaceutical market.Methods: Current Index of Medical Specialities July-October 2016 edition was referred to know the maximum and minimum price in INR of various brands of anti- epileptic drugs in India. Further analysis was done by using Percentage Cost Variation.Results: There is wide variation in the prices of different brands of same antiepileptic agents in Indian market. The highest % cost variation was found for diazepam 5mg tablet (374.42), followed by lorazepam 2mg tablet (213.63), carbamazepine 100mg syrup/5ml-100ml (172.58), levetiracetam 1000mg FC-tablet (168.57), lamotrigine 25mg DIS- tablet (150), clobazam 10mg tablet (147.37), clonazepam 0.5mg tablet (145.90), oxcarbazepine 150mg tablet (89.46), gabapentin 300mg capsule (71.67), valproic acid 200mg FC-tablet (58.62), divalproex sodium 500mg ER-tablet (47.82), topiramate 50mg tablet (41.66) and lowest % cost variation was of phenytoin sodium 300mg tablet (0.23).Conclusions: The average percentage price variation of different brands of same oral anti-epileptic drug in Indian market is very wide. To counter act such cost variation, physicians should be encouraged to prescribe a medication brand with low cost. This in turn reduces the unnecessary economic burden to the patients.