bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge, attitude and perceptions of dental professionals on patients seeking oral health care from traditional healers in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Dlamini Sibusisiwe , Moodley Ilana , Reddy Mogie
Published: October 2023

BackgroundThe general and oral healthcare needs of communities far exceed the capacity of the current public health system of South Africa (SA). This results in patients deferring treatment or seeking alternative measures in the form of the traditional health practice. It is important for dental professionals in the health system to be aware of such oral health care seeking behaviour within rural communities to initiate joint corporate oral health education programmes and referral systems that resonate with these communities.

Aims and objectivesThe study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitude and perceptions of dental professionals (16 dentists, 25 dental therapists, 4 oral hygienists and 3 dental assistants) regarding patients seeking oral health care from traditional healers.

MethodsThis was an exploratory, cross-sectional study that evaluated dental professionals’ knowledge, attitude and perceptions on patients seeking oral health care from traditional healers. A purposive sampling technique using specific inclusion criteria was used to select 48 qualified dental professionals (oral hygienists, dentists, dental assistants and dental therapists) practising in rural KwaZulu-Natal. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data related to sociodemographic variables and knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of dental professionals were recorded.

ResultsMost (77.1%) dental professionals were aware that their patients were seeking oral health care from traditional healers. They further maintained that the traditional health practice included ideas and methods from which the oral health fraternity could benefit.

ConclusionThis study revealed most of the dental professionals in rural Kwa-Zulu Natal have encountered patients who have consulted traditional health practitioners for oral health care. The dental personnel were accepting of traditional healers and believed that traditional healers could contribute positively to rural oral health care.
Prevalence of dental caries among learners with disabilities attending special education schools in the eThekwini District, KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Gumede Sinenhlanhla , Singh Shenuka , Radebe Mbuyiselwa
Published: October 2023

IntroductionIndividuals with special healthcare needs may have poororal health as a result of systemic and structural issues that make it more difficult to maintain optimal oral healthstatus. As such, these individuals may require specialised, multidisciplinary oral healthcare. Furthermore, determiningthe severity of oral conditions among these people isnecessary to establish the number of people affected and the services required to improve oral healthcare for these affected populations. Aims and objectivesTo determine the prevalence of dental caries among learnerswith disabilities attending special schools education in theeThekwini district, using DMFT/dmft and PUFA/pufa indices.DesignA cross-sectional descriptive study design.MethodsA proportional stratified random sampling method was usedto select learners from 22 special schools in the eThekwinidistrict (n=435). The sample was divided into subgroups known as strata (schools) and a systematic sampling technique was used in each school. The learners were further categorised according to the classification of Special Health Care according to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Data collection comprised an intraoral examination to determine the prevalence of dental caries (using the DMFT/dmft index) and the extent of untreated dental caries using the PUFA/pufa index. ResultsOut of the 488 students in the special schools approached, 435 consented to participate in the study giving a response ate of 89.14%. The prevalence of dental caries in the permanent and primary dentition was 53.6% and 22.5% respectively. The overall D (decayed) component recorded in permanent teeth was 740 (88%), the F (filled) component was 30 (4%) and M (missing) component was 77 (9%). Females had higher mean DMFT and PUFA scores while males had higher dmft and pufa scores. The DMFT and dmft scores recorded were highest in the 18-20 years age group at 3.70 ± 3.83 and the 6-8 years age group at 4.31 ± 4.00 respectively. The relationship between the DMFT and dmft scores and participants’ age was seen as statistically significant, as these increased with age (p <0.001). The highest caries prevalence was found in the intellectual disability group (46.4%; n=393). The “untreated caries to PUFA ratio” was 2.5 to 1, indicating that 26% of the D + d component (in DMFT/dmft) had progressed mainly to pulpal involvement. The PUFA/pufa scores were higher in the 12- 14 years age group at 0.46 ± 1.33 and 6-8 years age group at 2.06 ± 3.45 respectively when compared to the other age groups in the study sample.ConclusionThe high number of dental caries recorded in the permanent and primary dentition and the low number of restored teeth in the study sample highlight the need for promotive, preventive and restorative oral healthcare programmes within this population.
MODULATION OF NEUTROPHILS PHAGOCYTIC ACTIVITY using PRODUCTS MANUFACTURED FROM THE BROWN ALGAE FROM KAMCHATKA
Authors:   Federal State Institution “1477 Naval Clinical Hospital”, Branch № 2, Perervenko O.V. , Medzhidova Kh.M. ,   Federal State Institution “1477 Naval Clinical Hospital”, Branch № 2, Klochkova N.G. ,   Kamchatka Branch of Pacific Geographyсal Institute of FEB RAS
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we present data on the influence of products produced from the kelp seaweeds, such as gel from Hedophyllum bongardianum and extracts from H. bongardianum, Alaria esculenta and Fucus distichus, on the modulation of phagocytic activity of human blood neutrophils. Our experiment involved 16 volunteers who took 15 g of algal gel daily for 30 days. Before and after the experiment, their blood was taken for general analysis and also to study the level of immunomodulation after priming exposure to different concentrations (0.5, 1, 2, 5%) of algal extracts. The nonspecific resistance of the experiment participants' body was assessed by the following indicators: phagocytic activity of neutrophils, phagocytic number, absolute phagocytic index, and sum of phagocytosis. Algal extracts diluted with saline to a concentration of 2% showed the highest priming effect on the blood of examined individuals taken both before and after the consumption of algal gel per os. Low concentrations (0.25 and 0.5%) did not have a stimulating effect. When algal extracts were diluted to 5% concentration, phagocytosis was noticeably inhibited. After 30 days of consuming the algal gel, the phagocytic activity of neutrophils in all participants increased by an average of 23%, phagocytic number by 10%, and absolute phagocytic index from 2.1 to 42%. The immunostimulating effect was greatest for Alaria extracts, and the lowest for Fucus extracts. The experimental results allowed us to recommend products from Kamchatka's kelp seaweeds as adaptogenic substances.
МОРФОЛОГИЯ ЛИЧИНОК SPIRONTOCARIS INTERMEDIA MAKAROV, KOBJAKOVA, 1936 (DECAPODA, THORIDAE) ИЗ ПРИКАМЧАТСКИХ ВОД
Authors:   Kamchatka State Technical University, Sedova N.A.
Published: October 2023

The author identified I–VI zoeal stages of Spirontocaris intermedia (fem. Thoridae) from the plankton marine waters near Kamchatka peninsula. The basic morphological differences of larvae of the corresponding stages were identified. Descriptions and drawings of existing zoeal stages are given. A comparison of larvae with a closely related appearance of S. spinus was carried out. The close relationship of S. spinus and S. intermedia is evidenced by the similar sizes of larvae, the structure of maxillae, carapace, pleon, pereiopods, uropods and telson. There are morphological differences that do not allow these larvae to be attributed to one species: the structure of rostrum, pleopodes, maxillule, the second and third maxilliped, antennules and antennae at the corresponding stages of development, as well as the number of anteroventral spine of carapace. The asymmetry of the structure is characteristic of carapace, maxillule, maxillae, the first maxilliped, scale. According to the degree of development of most appendages, a noticeable lag in the development of S. intermedia is noticeable compared to S. spinus. It is suggested that S. intermedia develops through 7 zoeal stages.
Corrosion resistant degradation of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel exposed to simulated carburizing environments
Authors:   Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Thailand, Peeratatsuwan Chaiyawat , Kanjanangkoonpan Suphasin ,   Faculty of International Maritime Studies, Kasetsart University, Sriracha, Thailand, Reabroy Ratthakrit ,   Faculty of International Maritime Studies, Kasetsart University, Sriracha, Thailand, Chowwanonthapunya Thee ,   Faculty of International Maritime Studies, Kasetsart University, Sriracha, Thailand
Published: October 2023

This paper aimed to evaluate the anti-corrosion performance of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel after exposure to the simulated carburizing environment set up at 600oC, 750oC, and 900oC for 4 hrs. The microstructural alternation was investigated by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Electrochemical Potentiokinetic Reactivation (EPR) was employed to study the anti-corrosion performance of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel after exposure to the simulated carburizing environment. Hardness measurement was also conducted to study the role of carbon atoms released from the simulated environment. The results showed the formation of precipitated chromium carbides along grain boundaries and sensitization degree was found in ascending order: 600oC (Pa =0.23), 750oC (Pa =0.32) and finally 900oC (Pa =0.41). All carburized conditions promote carbon dissociation and diffusion through the substrate of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel, resulting in the increased hardness and decreased corrosion resistance of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel after exposure to the simulated carburizing environment.
Response surface methodology use in optimization of concrete properties using blast furnace slag aggregate and recycled concrete sand
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra, (Haryana) India, Poonam Poonam , Singh VP ,   Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra, (Haryana) India
Published: October 2023

The utilization of waste materials in concrete plays a crucial role in sustainable construction by contributing to environmental conservation and enhancing concrete properties. However, waste management and sustainable construction present significant challenges within the construction industry. This study specifically focuses on the optimization of concrete properties by utilizing Blast furnace slag aggregate (BFSA) as coarse aggregate (CA) and recycled concrete sand (RCS) as fine aggregate (FA). To assess the impact of BFSA and RCS replacement parameters, response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) was employed. The RSM regression equations generated in this study demonstrated high R2 values (>0.8), indicating their capability to explain the variability observed in the responses. To assess the impact of BFSA and RCS replacement parameters, response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) was employed. In conclusion, the implementation of RSM enables the incorporation of waste materials into concrete, resulting in waste reduction without significant effects on concrete properties.
The Cognitive Profile of Intellectual Giftedness
Authors: Asensio David , Fernández-Mera Ana , Duñabeitia Jon Andoni
Published: October 2023

Previous literature has suggested the existence of a close relationship between individuals’ intellectual abilities and their cognitive profile, understood as their performance in tasks tapping into the different cognitive domains. This relationship has typically been discussed in populations characterized as having high intellectual abilities, as is the case of gifted children and adolescents. In this study, the cognitive profile in domains of memory, attention, coordination, perception, and reasoning of a group of gifted children and adolescents was contrasted with a control group similar in age distribution, gender and socioeconomic level but with normotypical development. The results indicated that participants in the gifted group scored higher than those in the control group in all cognitive domains. The differences in cognitive abilities were not consistent across all areas, meaning that some cognitive abilities did not show significant differences, while others did. These results help to identify a more precise cognitive profile of gifted individuals, yielding a better understanding of the relationship between intelligence and cognitive abilities. The study provides evidence that allows delving into the most differential and characteristic aspects of giftedness.
Особенности билингвального обучения в вузе: опыт проведения практического занятия по направлению обучения «Зарубежное регионоведение»
Authors: Колосова Виктория Вольдемаровна , Семёнов Владимир Владимирович
Published: October 2023

Статья рассматривает одну из нетрадиционных форм обучения — бинарное занятие, его задачи, цели и этапы подготовки. Авторы приводят примерный сценарий проведения такого занятия.
Selected clinical and epidemiological features of tuberculosis coinfection, infection caused by human immunodeficiency virus and viral hepatitis
Authors: Dantsev Vladimir V. , Karpushchenko Vitalii G. , Lascheva Zoya D. , Zaretsky Boris V. , Zhuravkova Anna I. , Kuzin Alexandеr A. , Zobov Andrey E. , Belova Elena A.
Published: October 2023

The study estimated the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus infection and viral hepatitis in patients admitted to the tuberculosis hospital in 20182020. Among patients admitted for the treatment of tuberculosis, 36.8% had human immunodeficiency virus infection. Markers of viral hepatitis were also detected in 78.8% of patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection associated with tuberculosis. The most common coinfection was tuberculosis human immunodeficiency virushepatitis C, which was confirmed in 28.2% of the admitted patients. Clinical, X-ray, laboratory, and sonographic indicators were analyzed in 43 patients with tuberculosis having human immunodeficiency virus infection and viral hepatitis in various combinations. All patients were divided into three groups: group 1 included patients with tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency virus infection, and viral hepatitis, group 2 included patients with tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus infection, and group 3 included patients with tuberculosis and viral hepatitis. Anti-tuberculosis therapy was prescribed to all patients based on the spectrum of drug sensitivity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and when a human immunodeficiency virus infection was detected, antiretroviral therapy was prescribed during the first 2 weeks. Patients with viral hepatitis, if indicated, were prescribed hepatoprotective drugs. Control laboratory tests were conducted once every 2 months or more often in the presence of indications. Groups 1 and 2 were more likely to have multiple organ involvement and generalized forms, which determined the severity of the clinical course. In group 1, the activity of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase exceeded the normal limits upon hospital admission. Bilirubin levels were significantly higher in group 3 than in groups 1 and 2. The analysis of sonographic characteristics revealed increased size of the right liver lobe in all groups, without statistically significant differences between the groups. Adverse hepatotoxic reactions were reported in 5 (33.3%) patients of group 1, 4 (26.6%) of group 2, and 4 (30.7%) of group 3. The main manifestations of these reactions were pain in the right hypochondrium and increased activities of alanine aminotransferase and asparate aminotransferase. Patients with hepatotoxic reactions were prescribed hepatoprotective drugs, which made it possible to avoid the cancellation of complex etiotropic therapy
Hypromellose in Ophthalmology
Authors: Butranova O. I. , Zyryanov S. K.
Published: October 2023

Dosage forms for topical ocular administration are the basis of patient management in ophthalmology. The eye is a structure evolutionarily protected from the effects of xenobiotics by a number of physiological and anatomical barriers. The development of dosage forms, the targeted delivery into the eye structures is carried out due to the inclusion of special excipients, is aimed at improving the efficiency of managing patients with eye diseases. The action mechanisms of the most common groups of excipients used in ophthalmology underlie their effectiveness and safety, as well as create a basis for the various dosage forms development. Cellulose derivatives, due to their physicochemical and pharmacological characteristics, are one of the preferred groups for the development of topical dosage forms used in ophthalmology. Hypromellose (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) is one of the most studied cellulose derivatives, which is characterized by a wide range of indications for both the active substance (artificial tear component) and the excipient. The favorable pharmacological properties of hypromellose (the ability to provide long-term exposure to effective concentrations of drugs used topically in ophthalmology, the ability to increase the degree of hydration of the cornea) contribute to the active study of this substance to assess the possibilities of its use in the development of new dosage forms (nanoparticles), as well as expanding the existing list of indications. This review is devoted to the analysis of clinical and experimental studies of the efficacy and safety of hypromellose.
Possibilities of Using Laser Radiation in Vitreoretinal Surgery
Authors: Petrachkov D. V. , Korobov E. N.
Published: October 2023

Currently, laser technologies are widely used in the treatment of diseases of the eye and its accessory apparatus. Basically, they are used in oculoplastic surgery during operations on the accessory apparatus of the eye, in refractive and corneal surgery, laser support for ultrasound cataract surgery, laser treatment of glaucoma, laser coagulation of the retina, thermotherapy of choroidal formations. In the 21st century, Nd: YAG laser treatment of floating opacities in the vitreous body began to be actively popularized with mixed results. In vitreoretinal surgery, which is improving every decade, laser technology remains at the level of the 20th century. In endovitreal surgery, the laser is still used only for endolaser coagulation of the retina, despite the fact that there is a huge potential for using lasers as a “laser scalpel” for removing the vitreous, precision removal of a retinal tear, epiretinal fibrosis, precision retinotomy, and choroidotomy. In this regard, it is necessary to search for the most suitable laser radiation, which will make it possible to carry out thin cuts on the retina and choroid with high accuracy, minimal damage to the surrounding tissues, and a sufficient degree of coagulation to prevent hemorrhages. This laser will allow for surgical interventions in the posterior eye segment with a lower risk of intra- and postoperative complications, as well as better anatomical and functional results. With further development, this new approach to laser ablation may become an alternative to mechanical instruments for surgical dissection and removal of pathological tissue from the surface of the retina.
Results of Accelerated Local Cross-Linking in Keratoconus
Authors: Khraistin H. , Osipyan G. A. , Anisimov S. I. , Dzamikhova A. K. , Jourieh M.
Published: October 2023

Objective of the study. To analyze the effectiveness of accelerated local corneal cross linking in the treatment of keratoconus (KC). Patients and methods. Thirty-four patients (42 eyes) were included in the study: 19 people (24 eyes) with stage II keratoconus, 15 people (18 eyes) with stage III Amsler keratoconus. All patients were examined using the following methods: visometry, refractokeratometry, keratotopography, optical coherence tomography of anterior segment, endothelial cell density calculation before and after surgical treatment in 6 months, 1, 2 and 3 years. Results. Significant increase of uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuity was registered 6 months after operation in KC of the II and III stages. In KC stage II, the NCOZ and EOC were greater, from 0.39 ± 0.14 to 0.61 ± 0.18 by 0.22 ± 0.04 (p < 0.05) and from 0.60 ± 0.15 to 0.77 ± 0.12 by 0.17 ± 0.03 (p < 0.05), respectively, in stage III. — from 0.12 ± 0.03 to 0.23 ± 0.07 by 0.12 ± 0.04 (p < 0.05) and from 0.45 ± 0.10 to 0.53 ± 0.12 by 0.10 ± 0.02 (p < 0.05), due to decreased refractive indices in the central 3.0 mm zone. Refractive indexes of the central corneal zone, UVA and CVA in all patients after one, two and three years, as well as data of minimal corneal thickness and endothelial cell density did not change statistically significantly during the entire observation period.
The First Clinical and Functional Results of Myopia Correction Using a Solid-State Laser Unit
Authors: Maychuk N. V. , Tikhov A. V. , Takhchidi Kh. P. , Sarkhadov N. Sh. , Malyshev I. S.
Published: October 2023

Relevance. Modern keratorefractive surgery (CRS) is a high-tech field of ophthalmology aimed at solving various problems of correcting a wide range of ametropias. Increasing the security of the RFI is one of the priority areas Purpose. To analyze the clinical and functional results of the use of the “Olimp™-2000” solid-state laser system during CRS using the method of superficial and sublamellar laser keratoablation and formulate recommendations for the therapeutic management of patients. Materials and methods. 53 patients (106 eyes) were examined, the average age was 28.5 ± 2.4 years. The inclusion criterion was moderate myopia and the absence of contraindications to CRC. If sufficient, taking into account safety criteria, CRS was performed by sublamellar keratoablation, if insufficient, superficial keratoablation was performed. In both cases, ablation was performed using a domestic solid-state laser machine. The observation period was 3 months. Pharmacological support in all cases was standard, adopted for the management of patients in FCMMG “YourMed”. Results. An analysis of the clinical and functional results of CRS using a solid-state laser device showed full compliance with the criteria set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The accuracy of hitting the target refraction in the range of ± 0.5 diopters was 99.2 %; in 3 months of observation, no regression of the obtained refractive result was observed in any case. There was no loss of lines in any case, the BCVA after the operation corresponded to or exceeded by 1–2 lines the BCVA before the operation. When performing superficial keratoablation, in two cases, the loss of line 1 of the NCVA was noted due to the development of early subepithelial fibroplasia, which required correction of the pharmacological support. Conclusion. The analysis of the clinical and functional results of the correction of moderate myopia using the “Olimp™-2000” solid-state laser device showed high efficiency in terms of efficiency, safety, and predictability, despite little experience in using solid-state ablation in clinical practice. The use of Floas Mono® did not cause side effects in all cases and contributed to the smooth course of the early postoperative period. Thus, this drug is effective in the postoperative period and can be recommended for use in patients after CRC. The generation of ultraviolet radiation by modern solid-state devices for the purpose of correcting ametropia is a promising direction in CRS.
Medical Support of Adaptation to Refractive Errors with Age
Authors: Kovalevskaya M. A. , Antonyan V. B. , Starykh V. I. , Podoprigora A. V. , Sergeeva M. I.
Published: October 2023

Aim: to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment with Optinol on the condition of the ocular surface in people over 35 years of age with refractive error. Patients and methods. The study was carried out in two clinical and in the control group. The first group included 74 patients (148 eyes) with moderate (group 1a) and high (group 1b) myopia, mean age 38.3 ± 0.4 years. The second group consisted of 49 patients (98 eyes) with moderate (group 2a) and high (group 2b) hypermetropia, mean age 42.3 ± 0.5 years. The control group included 25 healthy individuals (50 eyes), mean age 38.2 ± 1.4 years. The anamnesis of patients, complaints and concomitant diseases were assessed by the questionnaire method. Conclusion. The results of the study proved the influence of moderate and high hypermetropia on the likelihood of dry eye syndrome (DES).
Impact of biologicals on chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps in combination with severe asthma
Authors: Timoshenko D. O. , Pavlova K. S. , Kurbacheva O. M. , Dyneva M. E. , Ilina N. I. , Shilovskiy I. P. , Dvornikov A. S. , Khaitov M. R.
Published: October 2023

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is often associated with asthma. This combination aggravates the course of both conditions, including the frequency and severity of asthma and CRSwNP exacerbations. Currently, the main strategy in the treatment of severe asthma is the use of biologicals, which may also impact CRSwNP symptoms, considering the similarity of pathogenic mechanisms of these diseases. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of biological therapy on CRSwNP in combination with severe asthma. Methods. 49 patients with CRSwNP and severe asthma were included in a single-center prospective cohort study. Patients were divided into 4 groups: dupilumab (n = 20), benralizumab (n = 15), mepolizumab (n = 7), and omalizumab (n = 7). Patients received the biologicals for at least 12 months (min – 12.0 months; max – 52.2 months). Asthma control (ACT, FEV1, the number of asthma exacerbations) and CRSwNP control (SNOT-22, the number of nasal and sinus surgeries) were evaluated at baseline and during treatment. The safety of therapy was assessed by the examination results and the reported adverse events. Results. We observed statistically significant improvements in asthma control, respiratory function, and a decrease in the number of asthma exacerbations with the use of biologicals in all groups. However, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups (p > 0.05). As for CRSwNP, we found the statistically significant improvements in symptoms (ΔSNOT-22 – (–67,3) ± 23,7, p < 0,001; (–26,1) ± 24,6, p < 0,001; (–34,0) ± 23,5, p = 0,016; (–35,1) ± 25,1, p = 0,025) and a decrease in the number of surgeries after therapy (Δ number of surgeries – (–5,2) ± 8,6, p < 0,001; (–3,7) ± 3,3, p = 0,002; (–3,6) ± 2,4, p = 0,036; (–1,6) ± 1,4, p = 0,010). in all groups. At the same time, dupilumab showed a greater improvement of CRSwNP control according to the SNOT-22 questionnaire than benralizumab (p = 0.001) and mepolizumab (p = 0.034). Conclusion. Biologicals currently used to treat severe asthma have a beneficial effect on concomitant CRSwNP. However, not all biologicals are characterized by an effect on the processes of polyposis tissue remodeling and formation. Our study confirms the relevance of searching for other potential targets for the development of the new biologicals to address the identified clinical needs.
Efficacy of olokizumab in patients with mild or moderate COVID-19 and risk factors of progression
Authors: Fomina D. S. , Andreev S. S. , Andrenova G. V. , Kruglova T. S. , Demidchik D. M. , Kovalevskaya O. S. , Mutovina Z. Yu. , Dokukina E. A. , Filon O. V. , Petkova A. V. , Khanonina E. K. , Samsonov M. Yu.
Published: October 2023

The COronaVIrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a common infectious disease characterized by hyperactivation of the immune response and the development of a “cytokine storm” upon progression. The aim of this study was to obtain additional information about the efficacy of the drug olokizumab in comparison with the Janus kinase inhibitor upadacitinib in real clinical practice in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 and combined risk factors for disease progression. Methods. A single-center, non-interventional, prospective study was conducted in specialized day hospital patients (n = 125) who received therapy with olokizumab (n = 62) (64 mg once intravenously) and the Janus kinase inhibitor upadacitinib (n = 63) (orally, according to selected dosing regimen). The primary endpoint was the frequency of hospitalizations in the 24-hour hospital over the entire observation period. We also analyzed the frequencies of intensive care unit (ICU) transfer, prescription of respyratory therapy, use of “rescue” therapy (monoclonal antibodies/therapeutic proteins acting on interleukins (IL) and their receptors: IL-6 receptor inhibitors and Janus kinase inhibitors (baricitinib, tofacitinib, upadacitinib, etc.)), mortality, dynamics of laboratory and instrumental parameters, as well as frequency of negative and positive changes according to the clinical progression scale of the World Health Organization. Results. All study subjects showed rapid clinical improvement and recovery. Patients in both groups did not experience any negative clinical events, such as admission to a 24-hour hospital, prescription of respyratory therapy, use of “rescue” therapy, etc. Thus, the hyperinflammatory reaction and adverse clinical outcomes are effectively prevented by the timely use of both drugs. Those who received olokizumab had slightly higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) at baseline than those who received upadacitinib (p < 0.001). The median CRP value returned to normal on the 4th day in both groups. Patients treated with olokizumab showed a more pronounced change in CRP levels relative to baseline values. A similar trend was also established in body temperature. Conclusion. The study confirmed that early administration of olokizumab in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 with several risk factors for the severe course is as effective a method of preemptive anti-inflammatory therapy as the use of Janus kinase inhibitors but more stronger suppression of markers and symptoms of intoxication.
Intralobar bronchopulmonary sequestration: an example of the late onset of this rare congenital pathology
Authors: Tretyakov M. А. , Tretyakov A. Yu.
Published: October 2023

Bronchopulmonary sequestration (BPS) refers to a rare congenital lung malformation with a nonventilated dysplastic fragment of parenchyma separated from the main bronchial tree. This segment has a systemic blood supply through aberrant arteries and venous outflow into the systemic venous bed or pulmonary veins and has a common with the rest of the lung (intralobar BPS) or an independent (extralobar BPS) visceral pleura. Purpose of the study is to describe an unusual late onset of right-sided intralobar BPS characterized by a pseudopneumonic course in a patient with concomitant anomalies of the thoracic spine and diaphragm; to discuss the issues of formation, manifestation, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, complications, and treatment of intralobar BPS, and to consider its combination with other developmental anomalies. Conclusion. BLS should be considered in patients with an unusual course of pulmonary anomalies, especially localized in the basal segments of the left (more common) or right (less common) lung and characterized by abnormal blood supply and other malformations.
Globalização e Metropolização: uma análise das redes de inovação na formação da megarregião brasileira (Rio de Janeiro-São Paulo)
Authors: Tunes Regina
Published: October 2023

O texto aborda a relação entre os processos de globalização e metropolização a partir da análise da constituição da megarregião brasileira, formada por 264 municípios, com elevada concentração e centralização do capital e de maior conexão com os fluxos globais no Brasil. O texto analisa, em especial, a relevância dos processos de inovação e das redes que são constituídas a partir do desenvolvimento das atividades inovadoras como um dos elementos que promovem integração e coesão nesse espaço megarregional. A partir de levantamento bibliográfico e de dados sobre a inovação, as redes e a infraestrutura do território, concluímos que apesar da concentração espacial das atividades inovadoras na megarregião diferenciá-la por meio da densificação das relações econômicas e sociais e constituir redes que se conectam com os fluxos globais, a megarregião se revela também como um espaço contraditoriamente diferenciado, desigual e marcado pelo desenvolvimento geográfico desigual.
Levantamento fitossociológico de plantas daninhas em área de produção de pitaya
Authors: Araújo Romário Guimarães Verçosa de , Cunha Jorge Luiz Xavier Lins , Ferro Maria Gilberlândia Ferreira , Pereira Charles Fraga , Silva Laysa Maria Moreira da Costa , Souza Renan Cantalice de
Published: October 2023

A pitaya tem ganhado destaque no mercado de frutos exóticos no Brasil, no entanto, diversos fatores limitam a produtividade, dentre eles, a interferência provocada por plantas daninhas. Nesse contexto a identificação da dinâmica populacional das plantas daninhas é a primeira etapa para adoção do manejo integrado, contribuindo para um controle eficiente e sustentável, e pode ser realizado através de levantamento fitossociológico. Objetivou-se por meio deste trabalho identificar e quantificar a composição florística de plantas daninhas em um pomar de pitaya, no primeiro ano de implantação, no município de Rio Largo, Alagoas. A fitossociologia foi realizada aos 120 dias após o plantio, utilizando um quadrado vazado de 0,50 m de largura, as espécies foram coletadas, identificadas, contabilizadas e acondicionadas em estufa à 65 °C. Foram calculados os seguintes índices: densidade, densidade relativa, frequência, frequência relativa, índice de valor de importância, abundância, abundância relativa, massa seca, massa seca relativa e índice de importância relativa. A comunidade de plantas infestantes apresentou considerável diversidade, com 24 espécies distribuídas em 12 famílias botânicas, sendo Poaceae e Asteraceae com maiores ocorrências. Observou-se que as espécies Cenchrus echinatus, Ageratum conyzoides, Galinsoga parviflora, Eleusine indica e Eclipta alba apresentaram maior classe de abundância, índice de valor de importância relativo, e devem ser as principais espécies para o controle.
Carcass yield of Oreochromis niloticus deformed by inbreeding process evaluated by morphometry
Authors: Rezende Cicero Eduardo , Galuppo Matheus Ribeiro , Marçal Danielle Cristina Pereira , Fernandes Diana Carla Oliveira , Paulino Renan Rosa , Freitas Rilke Tadeu Fonseca
Published: October 2023

Genetic improvement is the main responsible for the increase in tilapia production in the last decades. However, the toolsused in broodstock selection have increased the mating of related animals, and as a consequence, animals with morphometricanomalies have appeared. In view of the above, this work was carried out with the objective of evaluating the effect of bodydeformities on the meat yield of tilapia. A total of 106 animals from assisted reproduction of the UFLA tilapia breedingprogram were used, among which 53 had visible deformities. The animals were weighed, measured, and photographed witha digital camera and had their body areas measured using computer software. Afterward, the animals were slaughtered andthe fillet from the left side was removed to measure weights and yields. On the right side, cuts were made to measure themeat volume in the carcass. The residues were weighed separately to analyze processing losses. Using the software R-studiothe normality test was applied to all data and afterwards, the tests of means and correlations between morphometries andyields were performed. No morphometric differences were identified between the groups, but deformed animals showedsmaller caudal areas and caudal peduncles and high correlations with fillet weight. However, normal fish showed higherfillet yield and lower residue production. It is concluded that the anomalies imply lower filet yield and a higher amount ofprocessing residues.
Efectos de la Ley N° 27.642 en el menú escolar, Argentina
Authors: Gómez Jaramillo Daniela , Nessier Villaverde María Celeste , Gómez Dieste Paula Virginia , Rovirosa Sánchez Alicia Beatriz
Published: October 2023

Introducción: en Argentina los escolares se alimentan con programas estatales, en el año 2021 se dicta una ley que promueve la mejora del menú en cada centro educativo, una realidad que merece ser estudiada por las implicaciones en la seguridad alimentaria y el rendimiento académico.
Objetivo: analizar el efecto de la Ley N° 27.642 de “Promoción de la Alimentación Saludable” en la oferta de desayuno o merienda escolar en las provincias participantes de Argentina en el 2022.
Metodología: estudio observacional descriptivo; la población incluyó a todas las jurisdicciones del país, participando de la muestra 9 provincias, cuyas listas de menú de desayuno y merienda aportaron 276 alimentos. Se determinó la composición nutricional y la presencia de sellos y mensajes de advertencia regidos por la ley; se categorizaron los alimentos según las Guías Alimentarias para la Población Argentina (GAPA).
Resultados: se encontró que 102 alimentos (37% del total) alimentos serían alcanzados por la nueva normativa, de los cuales 95 productos llevarían al menos un sello por exceso de nutrientes críticos en la primera etapa de aplicación, siendo el sello más frecuente el exceso de azúcares (73%). En la segunda etapa, la totalidad de los alimentos alcanzados llevarían al menos un sello de exceso de nutrientes críticos, siendo los predominantes el exceso de azúcares (82%) y de calorías (81%). En ninguna etapa se hallaron productos que requieran la declaración de leyendas precautorias. Al categorizar los alimentos alcanzados por la normativa según las GAPA, el 88,2% correspondió al grupo de alimentos de consumo opcional, el 9,8% al grupo de leche, yogur y quesos, el 1% al grupo de cereales, legumbres, pan y pastas y el 1% al grupo de frutas y verduras.
Conclusiones: el efecto de la Ley Nº 27.642 encontró que 95 de 276 alimentos tienen exceso de azúcares, en la segunda fase predominaron en alto porcentaje el exceso de azúcares y calorías; no se necesitó declaración de leyendas precautorias.
Prevalencia y factores asociados a la ictericia neonatal
Authors: Macero Méndez Reina María , Piedra Sigcha Joseline Marcela , Plaza Chacha Grace Mariela
Published: October 2023

Introducción: cerca del 60% de los recién nacidos de término y el 80% de los prematuros desarrollan ictericia en la primera semana de vida; aproximadamente el 10% de los recién nacidos alimentados con seno materno también lo muestran.
Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia de la ictericia neonatal y los factores asociados en recién nacidos atendidos en el Centro de Salud "Carlos Elizalde" de la ciudad de Cuenca-Ecuador, de enero 2019 a diciembre 2020.
Metodología: estudio transversal con datos extraídos del sistema de gestión Registro Diario Automatizado de Consultas y Atenciones Ambulatorias (RDACAA) del Ministerio de Salud Pública del Ecuador de la unidad operativa, utilizando historias clínicas de madres y neonatos. Un total de 203 recién nacidos satisficieron los criterios de inclusión establecidos. Los datos fueron procesados en los programas IBM SPSS versión 26 y Microsoft Excel 2019. Se utilizaron medidas de tendencia central para normalidad y desviación estándar para medir la variabilidad. Además, se usó la prueba Chi-cuadrado para identificar los factores de riesgo asociados.
Resultados: el 49% de los neonatos presentaron ictericia clínica, siendo la fisiológica la más frecuente; los factores asociados principales fueron la edad del recién nacido (p=0.001), y la incompatibilidad de sangre ABO (p=0.047); no se halló correlación estadística con la presencia de patologías como sepsis, síndrome de dificultad respiratoria, sífilis congénita, gastroenteritis y conjuntivitis (p=0.083). Además, no se identificaron relaciones significativas con otros factores maternos y neonatales.
Conclusiones: la ictericia neonatal fue predominantemente fisiológica, destacando la influencia significativa de la edad del neonato y la incompatibilidad ABO.
Report on the barriers and facilitators for nurses and therapists allied to health, in developing their knowledge and skills within acute medicine, to support career progression: A Rapid Review
Authors:   Coventry University, UK, Liz Lees-Deutsch Liz Lees-Deutsch ,   University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Kendrick Abby ,   University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Bailey Nicola ,   University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, Burnett Elaine ,   Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, Kelly Tash ,   University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, Laugher Hannah ,   University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
Published: October 2023

During 2022/2023 a collaborative working group met to develop a new/updated career framework for nurses in acute medicine, led by the Society for Acute Medicine (SAM) nurse council representative. The first stage of this work involved a rapid review of evidence to strengthen understanding of the issues and to develop the work. The aim is to understand the barriers and facilitators to knowledge and skills acquisition for career progression in AMUs.
Specialized Manual Therapy Techniques Can Improve Neuromotor Outcome in Patients with Foot-Drop Syndrome
Authors: Sardaru Petrică Dragoș , Onu Ilie , Luca Cătălina , Dan Zaharia-Kezdi , Matei Daniela , Drugus Daniel , Piseru Emanuel-Andrei , Pandea Alin , Iordan Daniel-Andrei , Musat Carmina-Liliana
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Functional rehabilitation of foot-drop syndrome due to lumbar disc herniation it is a problem that concerns many researchers. Study objective was to investigate if specialized manual therapy techniques and functional electrical stimulation alone and combined can influence the overall neuromotor outcome.
Methods: 90 subjects were randomized to 3 groups, 30 subjects allocated to control group (CG) which received physical therapy, 30 subjects in functional electrical stimulation group (FES) and 30 subjects in combined FES with manual therapy techniques (FES-MT). All groups received a number of 20 sessions. We evaluated nerve conduction study, dynamometry, goniometry, functional ankle disability index (FADI), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Numeric Rating Scale (NRS).
Results: For Compound muscle action potential we have found significant modifications when comparing FES-MT vs CG (p<0.011). For dynamometry we registered as follows: FES-MT vs CG (0.0001), FES-MT vs FES (p<0.003). ODI and FADI scores were more significant in FES-MT and FES compare with CG.
Conclusions: Manual therapy techniques utilized for increasing the excitability of neuromuscular spindle can increase the overall functionality of the tibialis muscle in case of foot drop syndrome. The combination between FES and MT showed better functional results than physical therapeutic exercises and FES alone.
The Perception of Physical Activity / Physical Education Among University Employees
Authors: Leuciuc Florin-Valentin , Boca Andreea Gabriela , Petrariu Ileana , Holubiac Iulian-Ștefan , Leuciuc Roxana-Melania
Published: October 2023

Questionnaires are an effective way to assess the level of physical activity. The aim of our study was to assess subjectively the physical activity of university employees by using a self-report scale. The online self-report questionnaire used in our study was applied anonymously in October 2021 and was completed by 126 respondents. To analyze the results, we used analysis of variance and Bonferroni post hoc test for the groups (gender, occupation, area of residence, level of study, and age) included in our research. The analysis by gender revealed that females were more active than males. Participants from rural areas were the most active group in our study compared to those from urban areas, who recorded one of the smallest values. Statistical significance was achieved in all analyses. This study assessed the level of physical activity among university employees, and the results of our analysis showed that over 78% of the participants met the requirements of moderate to high-level physical activity according to the guidelines. Our results and data analysis suggest that the perception of physical activity / physical education in the daily life of university employees is high, but professional activity and leisure time prevail in their schedule.
Warunki środowiskowe i paleogeograficzne znaczenie osadów torfowiska Błonie (środkowa Polska)
Authors: Janas Weronika , Forysiak Jacek
Published: October 2023

Obszar badanego torfowiska stanowi fragment kompleksu mokradeł zajmujących dno pradoliny warszawsko-berlińskiej w rejonie Łęczycy. Na specyfikę tej części pradoliny oraz torfowiska w Błoniu wpływa wododziałowe położenie, a także kłodawski wysad soli kamiennej wieku permskiego. Rozpoznane zostały miąższość i litologia utworów biogenicznych, a w wybranym profilu badawczym oznaczono ich parametry fizykochemiczne i wykonano datowania. Pozwoliło to na zrekonstruowanie najważniejszych faz rozwoju mokradła, odzwierciedlających naturalne i antropogeniczne zmiany warunków środowiska geograficznego, jakie panowały na obszarze pradoliny warszawsko-berlińskiej w odcinku między miejscowościami Łęczyca i Błonie.
Rola Rzecznika Klienta jako elementu systemu ochrony klienta w bankach
Authors: Stanek-Kowalczyk Aleksandra
Published: October 2023

Cel artykułu. Celem niniejszego artykułu jest udzielenie odpowiedzi: jaka jest rola Rzecznika Klienta w bankach jako dobrowolnego elementu systemu ochrony klientów?
Metoda badawcza. Aby udzielić odpowiedzi na to pytanie, w sierpniu 2021 roku przeprowadzone zostało badanie z wykorzystaniem metody CAWI na próbie 509 konsumentów. Dodatkowo, przeprowadzono wywiady pogłębione, częściowo ustrukturyzowane, z trzema Rzecznikami Klienta w bankach działających w Polsce.
Wyniki badań. W celu zagwarantowania i ochrony praw konsumenta w Polsce działa Urząd Ochrony Konkurencji i Konsumenta. Dodatkowo, w celu szczególnej ochrony klientów instytucji finansowych i wspierania ich w sporach z podmiotami rynku finansowego powołany został Rzecznik Finansowy. Oprócz instytucji państwowych, istnieją także niezależne organizacje pozarządowe, powołane w celu wspierania i ochrony konsumentów.
Mimo nadzoru regulatora oraz działalności instytucji chroniących klientów przed nieuczciwymi praktykami rynkowymi w branży finansowej, w tym w bankach, nadal można spotkać się ze zjawiskami, które mają charakter nieuczciwych praktyk, w tym missellingu. W świetle wskazanego problemu branży, cześć banków zdecydowała się podjąć działania samoregulacyjne. Formą takich działań jest między innymi powoływanie w Bankach Rzecznika Klienta, czyli jednostki, której zadaniem jest reprezentowanie interesów klienta w relacji z bankiem.
Wyniki przeprowadzonego badania wskazują, że, mimo potencjału i możliwości, które tworzy funkcja Rzecznika Klienta w bankach, nie jest ona w pełni wykorzystywana, a rola Rzecznika zazwyczaj ogranicza się do działań reaktywnych, podejmowanych w odpowiedzi na nieprawidłowości, które już miały miejsce i nie zostały rozpatrzone przez inne jednostki.