bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Double-barrel STA-MCA bypass for cerebral revascularization: lessons learned from a 10-year experience
Authors: Kan Peter , Srinivasan Visish M. , Srivatsan Aditya , Kaufmann Ascher B. , Cherian Jacob , Burkhardt Jan-Karl , Johnson Jeremiah , Duckworth Edward A. M.
Published: May 2021

OBJECTIVE

In select patients, extracranial-intracranial (EC-IC) bypass remains an important tool for cerebral revascularization. Traditionally, superficial temporal artery–middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) bypass was performed using one limb of the STA only. In an attempt to augment flow and to direct flow to different ischemic areas of the brain, the authors adopted a “double-barrel” technique in which both branches of the STA are used to revascularize distinct MCA territories.

METHODS

A series of consecutive double-barrel STA-MCA bypasses performed between 2010 and 2020 were reviewed. Each anastomosis was directed to augment flow to a territory most at risk based on preoperative perfusion studies, cerebral angiography, and intraoperative indocyanine green data. CT perfusion and CTA were routinely used to evaluate postoperative augmentation and graft patency. Patient perioperative outcomes, surgical complications, and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores at the last follow-up were reported.

RESULTS

Forty-four patients (16 males, 28 females) successfully underwent double-barrel STA-MCA bypass on 54 cerebral hemispheres: 28 operations were for moyamoya disease, 23 for atherosclerotic disease refractory to medical therapy, 2 for complex cerebral aneurysms, and 1 for carotid occlusion as a sequela of cavernous meningioma growth. Ten patients underwent multiple operations, 9 of whom had moyamoya disease/syndrome, with the subsequent operation on the contralateral hemisphere. The average patient age at surgery was 45.1 years (range 14–73 years), with a mean follow-up time of 22.1 months. Intraoperative graft patency was confirmed in 100% of cases, and 101 (98.1%) of the 103 anastomoses with imaging follow-up were patent. Perfusion to the revascularized hemisphere was improved in 88.2% of cases. Perioperative ischemic and hemorrhagic complications occurred in 8 procedures (2 were asymptomatic), whereas remote ischemic and hemorrhagic events occurred in 7 cases. There was no mortality in the series, and the mean patient mRS scores were 1.72 at presentation and 1.15 at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The high rates of intraoperative and postoperative patency support the feasibility of dual-anastomosis STA-MCA bypass for revascularization. The perioperative complication rate is not significantly different from that of single-anastomosis bypass. The functional outcomes at follow-up and perfusion improvement postoperatively support the efficacy and safety of this method as a treatment strategy.
MONITORING OF THE BENCHES AND SIDES STABILITY OF THE QUARRIES
Authors:   Karaganda Technical University, Kazakhstan, Nizametdinov Farit , Ozhigin Sergey ,   Karaganda Technical University, Kazakhstan, Nizametdinov Nail ,   Karaganda Technical University, Kazakhstan, Oralbay Aldiyar ,   Karaganda Technical University, Kazakhstan
Published: May 2021

The increase in the volume of opencast mining is facing the main problem of ensuring the stability of the open pit slopes on the planned contour. To achieve this goal, required reliable geomechanical support of the parameters of the slopes of quarry benches and sides, then placing them on the planned contour using special technological schemes of the slopes and constant instrumental monitoring of their condition in an automated mode. The main emphasis in the work has been given to the method of instrumental monitoring of the quarry’s arrays state using modern instruments with the analysis of their measurement’s accuracy. The approved instrumental methods of monitoring at the open-pit mines of Kazakhstan are presented.
PRINCIPLES OF OPTIMIZATION OF THE FUEL AND ENERGY COMPLEX BASED ON MINIMIZING THE DESTRUCTIVE IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT
Authors:   National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Ukraine, Kovshun Natalia , Moshchych Svitlana ,   National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Ukraine, Malanchuk Larisa ,   National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Ukraine, Kostrychenko Valentyna ,   National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Ukraine, Veretin Ludmyla ,   National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Ukraine
Published: May 2021

In the context of the social and economic crisis, the energy sector plays a strategic role in terms of Ukraine's sectorial structure: filling the budget, additional export revenues, and other economic and social benefits. However, further exploitation of existing technologies for extraction, transportation and conservation of mineral resources has a negative impact on the environment, which ultimately leads to a loss of quality of energy resources themselves. Achieving the goals set by the Energy Strategy of Ukraine until 2035, as well as other sectorial programs, among which integration into European energy markets is important, requires large-scale modernization and reform. The subject of the research is the methodological principles of bi-criteria substantiation of investments in energy projects, which provide for the assessment of the economic feasibility of such projects taking into account the possible environmental consequences. The research methodology includes consideration of methodological bases of ecological regulation of national energy development in the conditions of implementation of European ecological requirements, analysis of conditions of achievement of strategic priorities of national economy development, formalization of methodical bases of ubstantiation of investments in energy projects using multivariate approach. The purpose of the study is to develop an algorithm for economic and environmental justification of investments in energy projects, taking into account environmental impacts and economic interests of energy market participants. The conducted research, in order to solve the outlined problems of the branch, requires the implementation of the proposed practical recommendations of bringing the ecological regulation of the national energy complex to the requirements of the European Energy Community.
SELECTED PROBLEMS OF RHEOLOGY IN THE CONTEXT OF ROCKS BEHAVIOUR. VARIABILITY OF THE MODULUS OF ELASTICITY AS AN EXAMPLE OF THE INFLUENCE OF TIME AND STRESS FACTORS
Authors:   Silesian University of Technology, Poland, Tomiczek Krzysztof
Published: May 2021

Most of the solutions to the problems of rock mechanics, rock mass mechanics, but also soil mechanics and geotechnics ignore the influence of the time factor. The solutions are here and now, at the moment. Meanwhile, plastic-viscosity properties, when rocks are in a 3D stress state, play more and more importance in the course of time. The deformability variability is of particular importance, as measured by the modulus of elasticity E. This chapter analyzes the magnitude of this modulus obtained in uniaxial short-term tests and creep tests of a well-known and described, typical sandstone, at different stress values 0=const
PROSPECTS OF METHANE MINING IN THE WESTERN REGION OF UKRAINE
Authors:   National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Ukraine, Chukharev Serhii , Lozynskyi Vasyl ,   Dnipro University of Technology, Ukraine, Zaiets Vitalii ,   National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Ukraine, Solvar Liubomyr ,   Chervonograd State College of Mining Technology and Economics, Ukraine, Okseniuk Roman ,   National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Ukraine
Published: May 2021

Methane reserves of coal mines of Ukraine are analyzed, and comparisons with other coal mining countries of the world are made. It is determined that Ukraine is among the countries with the largest reserves of mine methane. Data on the need to reduce methane emissions and its negative impact as one of the main greenhouse gases on global warming and climate change are presented. The world experience of methane extraction and processing from coal mines is studied, the advantages and disadvantages of different types of methane neutralization are determined. The priority directions of this activity for Ukraine are determined.
MODERNIZATION OF METALLURGICAL EQUIPMENT WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN INNOVATIVE METHOD OF COILING HOT-ROLLED STRIPS
Authors:   Satbayev University, Republic of Kazakhstan, Yelemessov Kassym , Rysbekov Kanay ,   Satbayev University, Republic of Kazakhstan, Baskanbayeva Dinara ,   Satbayev University, Republic of Kazakhstan, Igbayeva Akzhan ,   Satbayev University, Republic of Kazakhstan
Published: May 2021

The report presents the results of laboratory studies on the use of a combined (water and air) method of coiling hot-rolled strips on a coiler of a continuous broadstrip mill 1700. An innovative method of coiling strips allows to completely abandon the mechanical formation of hot-rolled coils. In order to study the hydraulic formation in laboratory conditions, a model of a coiler was created, which was structurally tied to the existing laboratory rolling mill "DUO-100". Studies carried out on the laboratory model of a coiler with hydraulic roll formation confirmed the fundamental possibility of using the proposed coiling method for working with various materials. Aluminum and lead strips were used as hot rolled strip. The results of laboratory work indicate a sufficient convergence of calculations with experimental data, which allows using the results obtained as recommendations for the creation of industrial installations. A method for calculating the flow rate and pressure of water and air is proposed. The calculation of the clamping force of the front end of the strip and the refined selection of the number of collectors and the maximum angle of rotation of the nozzle are carried out. The use of the combined principle for the formation of the first turns of the roll avoids contact between the rolled metal and the strip, expands the adjustment limits and reduces the requirements for its accuracy. The results obtained make it possible to recommend the use of a combined method of strip coiling in rolling production.
RESULTS OF PHYSICO-CHEMICAL STUDIES OF ORE ROCKS AND ELEBARATION THEWAY OF EXTRACT USEFUL COMPONENTS FROM THEM
Authors:   Kyrgyz State University of Geology, Mining and Natural Resources Exploitation named after Academician U.Asanaliev (KGGU),  Kyrgyzstan, Toktosunova Batma , Sultankulova Alyima ,   Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University named after B. N. Yeltsin (KRSU), Kyrgyzstan, Kushnazarova Sapargul ,   Kyrgyz Institute of Mineral Resources (KIMR), Kyrgyzstan, Aitkulov Beksultan ,   Kyrgyz Institute of Mineral Resources (KIMR), Kyrgyzstan, Toktosunov Narmat ,   Kyrgyz Institute of Mineral Resources (KIMR), Kyrgyzstan
Published: May 2021

This paper work determinesthe results of research on the physico-chemical properties of ore minerals from the deposits of the Sarijaz Ore Area of the Berkutsk Group of the Kyrgyz Republic.Mechanical processing of test minerals according to known method was carried out.The influence of particle dispersion in test samples on the expression of some metals in ore minerals has been studied.The effect of the sample size on the yield of the useful components has been determined.It is shown that in a finely fragmented sample the output of the noble metal is several times higher than the control metal.
STUDY OF SOLIDIFYING MIXTURES IN MINING KRYVYI RIH IRON ORE DEPOSIT “KIROV”
Authors:   Kryvyi Rih National University, Ukraine, Pysmennyi Serhii , Pozdniakov Valerii ,   Polytechnic Institute of Gamal Abdel Nasser University of Conakry,  Republic of Guinea, Biluk Victoria ,   Kryvyi Rih National University, Ukraine
Published: May 2021

The work addresses the issue of selecting a solidifying mixture when mining deposits of naturally lean iron ores by open stoping systems to decrease mining costs without the concern for surface subsidence. Magnetite quartzites are mined by systems applied to mining naturally rich iron ores that provide for leaving significant reserves in pillars. In view of the above, when mining magnetite quartzites, it is reasonable to consider application of open stoping with backfilling. Application of polymer additives in the backfill instead of cement allows decreasing costs for water and binders while retaining its strength. As they are able to couple with any binders and fillers, polymers can be added to not only concretes and cement grouts. This provides opportunities to widely use mining and concentrating wastes, i.e. slag and waste rock. Advantages of applying mixtures with plasticizers are: lower labour costs, reduced risks of cracking, increased abrasion resistance, lower shrinkage, increased resistance to temperature fluctuations, backfilling without vibrations, a longer concrete mixture lifecycle. Aggregate technical and economic indicators demonstrate that with similar physical properties of the backfill, polymer-based backfilling is 2-3 times cheaper as compared with the cement-based one. Thus, when stoping with backfilling at Artem underground mine, it is advisable to use a polymer blast furnace slag backfill as a solidifying mixture.
THEORY AND PRACTICE OF DETERMINING THE CATEGORY HAZARD OF COAL MINES BY THE GAS FACTOR
Authors:   Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University, Ukraine, Filatieva Elvira , Oleinichenko Aleksandr ,   Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University, Ukraine, Filatiev Mykhailo ,   Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University, Ukraine, Sokolenko Valerii ,   Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University, Ukraine
Published: May 2021

A comparative analysis of the theoretical and practical definition of the category hazard of coal mines by gas factor based on experimental data obtained in real conditions of mining gas-bearing coal seams is presented. The mine's hazard category by gas factor is determined in accordance with the current regulatory document. The processing of experimental data obtained in field studies leads to contradictions in the requirements for the safe mining of gas-bearing coal seams. The necessity of changing the regulatory framework for predicting methane release and establishing the category hazard of mines by gas factor is substantiated, as well as the theoretical part of the research is experimentally confirmed and practical proposals are given to improve the requirements of regulatory documents for the safe mining of gas-bearing coal seams. The gas release from seven possible sources, the exposed surface of the working face, the undermined adjacent seams and their enclosing rocks, the overworked adjacent seams and enclosing rocks, the worked-out space of the stopped lavas, are accepted for consideration. The studies have shown that by removal the bottom from cut and the area of the mined-out space of the operated section and the wing of the mine field, taking into account the stopped longwalls, it is possible to predict the processes of rock displacement that determine the absolute gas release from the undermined sources.
STRUCTURAL BONDS DEVELOPMENT IN THE BACKFILL MASS WHEN CHANGING THE DISPERSION OF THE BINDING MATERIAL
Authors:   Dnipro University of Technology, Ukraine, Petlovanyi Mykhailo , Zubko Serhii ,   PJSC “Zaporizhzhia Iron Ore Plant”, Ukraine, Sai Kateryna ,   Dnipro University of Technology, Ukraine, Khalymendyk Oleksii ,   Dnipro University of Technology, Ukraine
Published: May 2021

Purpose. Theoretical and experimental research on the structural and strength peculiarities of the backfill mass formation during the ore deposits development by activating the binding material of the backfill mixture using fine grinding at the stage of its preparation. Methods. An integrated methodological approach is used, consisting of laboratory studies on determining the properties of backfill mixtures and the structural internal bonds of the backfill mass using scanning electron microscopy. Some laws of the binding material chemistry are used and systematized in the course of theoretical research. Findings. Based on theoretical and experimental research, the interaction and the hydration products of the backfill mixture binding components with water have been studied. The use of a finely ground combined binding material made of slags and limestone improves and strengthens the structural bonds of the backfill mass through a large gap in the covalent bonds of silica and slags, the transition of ions of a weak ionic bond to the formation of other compounds and equalizing the ratio of Si and Са ions in solution. Originality. It has been determined that with an increase in the specific surface area of the binding material particles, the shape of structural new formations of the backfill mass improves, has high strength, and the basicity of its new formations increases. Practical implications. Using the results, it is possible to rationally choose the binding material dispersion, obtain high strength of the backfill mass and increase the stability of its outcropping.
FEATURES OF FORMATION OF GROUNDWATER MASSES OF THE SIVERSKYI DONETS RIVER BASIN
Authors:   State Regional Geological Enterprise “Donetskgeologiya”, Ukraine, Zhykalyak Mykola
Published: May 2021

The introduction in Ukraine in 2016 of basin integrated principles in the zoning and management of water resources of the state in ccordance with the Directives of the European Union was an extremely relevant and progressive measure. However, when adopting the relevant normative acts and regulations, the iverskodonetsk river basin was unreasonably lowered to the sub-basin of the Don River. Geomorphological and hydrological analysis of geographical maps at a scale of 1:200000-1:500000 of the south-eastern regions of Ukraine and border regions of the Russian Federation allowed to substantiate the basin status of the Siverskyi Donets River, to allocate 17 sub-basins and and their man-made changes, as well as to offer a water monitoring system.
PRISE EN CHARGE DES TRAUMATISMES OPERATOIRES DES VOIES BILIAIRES A ORAN
Authors: Tidjane Anisse
Published: May 2021

INTRODUCTIONLe Traumatisme opératoire des voies biliaires (TOVB) est une complication rencontréeprincipalement après réalisation des cholécystectomies (CH), qu’elles soient laparoscopiques(CH-L) ou ouvertes (CH-O), L’incidence des TOVB avoisine les 2 pour 103 CH.MATERIELS ET METHODESUne étude analytique était réalisée, incluant tout les patients admis et pris en charge pourTOVB au service de chirurgie hépatobiliaire et greffe du foie de l’EHU-1er Novembre 1954d’Oran, sur la période qui s’étendait du 01 janvier 2010 au 31 mai 2018. Les objectifs étaient :l’étude des caractéristiques épidémiologiques des patients, la description des facteursfavorisant la survenue des TOVB, une description des lésions anatomiques provoquées par leTOVB, et une analyse de la morbi-mortalité postopératoire des patients bénéficiant d’unechirurgie de réparation biliaire pour TOVB.RESULTATSDurant cette période 63 patients était pris en charge pour TOVB, le Sex-ratio était de 0,23avec une moyenne d’âge de 45,52 ± 14,02, les TOVB étaient dus à une CH-L chez 50,8% descas, à une CH-O chez 39,7%, à une chirurgie pour Lithiase de la voie biliaire principale chez3,2%, à une chirurgie pour kyste hydatique du foie chez 3,2% et à une chirurgie pour cancerde la vésicule biliaire chez 3,2%. Plus de 36% de nos patients avaient subi une chirurgie deréparation biliaire auparavant dans d’autres hôpitaux et 14,3% étaient pris en charge enurgence à leur admission pour collection biliaire intra péritonéale. Le principal facteurfavorisant retrouvé chez les patients victimes de TOVB était la cholécystite aigue (42,6%).Les lésions biliaires étaient classées selon la classification de Strasberg, le Type Areprésentait (3,2%) des cas, le B (0%), le C (3,2%), le D (1,6%) , le E1 (6,3%), le E2 (36,3%),le E3 (31,7%), le E4 (14,3%)et le E5 (3,2%), Une lésion vasculaire était présente chez 8,8%des patients. La médiane de délai de réparation était de 06 mois avec des extrêmes de 0 à 171mois.Cinquante-sept patients avaient bénéficié d’une chirurgie de réparation biliaire, la mortalitépostopératoire immédiate était de 3,5%, des complications postopératoires étaient retrouvéeschez 31,6% des patients, la médiane de séjour postopératoire était de 8 jours. Tous nospatients avaient des résultats de réparation classés de grade I et II selon la classification deTerblanche. La moyenne de recule chez nos patients était de 36,12 ± 25,99 mois.CONCLUSIONLes caractéristiques épidémiologiques de nos patients se rapprochent de ceux des publicationsinternationales, les résultats de nos réparations sont bons et cela s’expliquerait par le respectde notre équipe des recommandations pour assurer une bonne chirurgie de réparation, par lefaible taux de plaie vasculo-biliaire et par le recule que nous jugeons moyen. Le délai deréparation long est dû au retard de transfert des patients à notre structure.
CONNECTING THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVES AND PRAXIS ON AFRICAN WOMEN LEADERSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT AGENDA
Authors: Costa King , Ngcetane-Vika Thelela
Published: May 2021

African women are becoming increasingly relevant in the continent's development and growth agenda. For decades, African women have been seen as a backbone and connective tissue for spiritual growth and sustainable societies, in fields such as religion, culture, economics, and politics, to name a few. This review is part of PhD studies on African women leadership development. The aim of this paper is to explore a functional connection between theoretical perspectives and practical application in real life regarding the agenda on developing leadership capabilities for women. A qualitative evidence synthesis was used as a method of inquiry and thematic expressions were developed using the COSTA QDA Technique. Results culminated in three thematic expressions that explicated a disconnect between popular theories on women development agenda and practical application in a collaborative approach. However, an emphasis was made on the requirement for women in influential leadership positions to coach and mentor others. Findings further indicated that women at grassroots level were enthusiastic and ready for programmes and environments that enable leadership capabilities, development and growth. The study concluded that formal and sustainable mentorship and coaching programmes that integrate all stakeholders (males and females) in a collaborative approach should be developed.
Analysis Good Governance of Corruption Eradication toward Penta Helix Model in Indonesia
Authors: Sarjito Aris , Ghazalie
Published: May 2021

Transparency International released an annual report on the corruption perception index in 2018. The survey results of 180 countries showed a bad score because more than two-thirds scored less than 50. The highest score is 100, which means very clean or free of corruption, and the lowest is zero which means it is very corrupt. Indonesia must learn from New Zealand and Australia who have succeeded in helping improve the corruption perception index in their country, even though Indonesia's corruption perception index experienced an upward trend in 2014-2018. In an effort to analyze Good Governance in eradicating corruption in Indonesia, the researchers applied the Penta Helix Model, better known as the ABCGM concept, namely Academicians, Business, Community, Government, and Media to reduce the level of corruption in Indonesia. This research method is qualitative to investigate, find, describe, and explain the quality or features of social influences that cannot be explained, measured or described through a quantitative approach. The Penta Helix model is considered to have a positive influence in eradicating corruption.
Immunotherapy: New insights in breast cancer treatment
Authors: Alshehri Bader
Published: May 2021

Breast cancer being the most malignant and lethal disease persistent among women globally. Immunotherapy as a new treatment modality has emerged in understanding the loopholes in the treatment of breast cancer which is mainly attributed to the potential of tumor cells to evade and survive the immune response by developing various strategies. Therefore, improved understanding of the immune evasion by cancer cells and the monoclonal antibodies against PD- and PD-L1 can help us in the diagnosis of this malignancy. Here in this article, I have highlighted that in addition to focusing on other strategies for breast cancer treatment, the involvement of immune system in breast cancer is vital for the understanding of this malignancy. Further, the complete involvement of immune system in the relapse or recurrence of the breast tumor and have also highlighted the role of vaccines, PD-1 and CTLA-4 with the recent advances in the field. Moreover, in addition to the application of immunotherapy as a sole therapy, combinations of immunotherapy with various strategies like targeting it with MEK inhibitors, Vaccines, chemotherapy and PARP inhibitor has shown to have significant benefits is also discussed in this article.
Protective effect of a new heterocyclic compound on acute tracheobronchitis via reducing IL-6 and TNF-α content and PKA-NF-κB pathway activation
Authors: Han Ai-Ping , Li Li
Published: May 2021

The new heterocyclic compound 4-methyl-3-((4-(pyridin-3-yl) pyrimidin-2-yl) amino) benzoic acid (1) designed utilizing methyl 3-amino-4-methylbenzoate (2) as a starting material was successfully fabricated and eventually characterized utilizing single crystal X-ray crystallography, 1H NMR and IR. In biological study, to evaluate the protective effect of compound on acute tracheobronchitis ICR mice model, the ELISA assay was performed to determine the level of inflammatory mediators IL-6 and TNF- α in serum. Then, the western blot was performed to determine the activation of PKA-NF- κB pathway in tissues.
Molecular docking and anticancer activity determination of 5,10-dihydro-7,8-dimethyl alloxazine derived from lumichrome of riboflavin
Authors: Etu Shafia Farhana , Hossain M. Alamgir , Rouf Abu Shara Shamsur , Alqahtani Ali , Qais Nazmul
Published: May 2021

Cancer is accountable for the demise of numerous lives worldwide annually. In this research a derivative of lumichrome, 5,10-dihydro-7,8-dimethyl alloxazine was assessed for its anticancer property through docking study. It was appraised after performing molecular docking study of the 5,10-dihydro-7,8-dimethyl alloxazine, there was a strong interaction between multiple oncogenic target proteins like CDK2/CCNE2 (–8.5 kcal/mol), TDP2 (–8 kcal/mol), NAD-SIRT2 (–10.9 kcal/mol) and lung cancer and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Additionally, according to ADMET analysis, the synthesized compound 5,10-dihydro-7,8-dimethyl alloxazine also has good physicochemical characteristics to be a drug candidate. Consequently, these verdicts will assist the development of a novel anti-lung cancer and anti-leukemic agent which will eventually improve the endurance of cancer patients.
Velocity dependent measure of spasticity: Reliability in children and juveniles with neuromotor disorders
Authors: Marsico Petra , Frontzek-Weps Victoria , van Hedel Hubertus J.A.
Published: May 2021

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to create a clear, standardized test description to rate spasticity severity into four categories according to the definition given by Lance [1], referred to as the Velocity Dependent Measure of Spasticity (VDMS). METHOD: Muscle groups of the upper and lower limbs of children with neuromotor disorders were evaluated on their response to passive movement in a fast-versus slow-velocity test condition. The interrater and test-retest reliability were assessed using Gwet’s alpha one (95%-CI) and the percentage agreement. RESULTS: Two physiotherapists independently assessed 45 children and youths (age 4–19 years). The interrater reliability of the VDMS was substantial to almost perfect (Gwet’s alpha one: 0.66–0.99, n= 45) while the test-retest reliability was almost perfect as well (Gwet’s alpha one: 0.83–1.00, n= 42). CONCLUSION: The VDMS can be recommended as a reliable assessment with a standardized procedure to assess spasticity of the extremities in children with neuromotor disorders.
Operations Management in Ambulatory Care in Switzerland
Authors: Uhr Vinzenz , Gauch Marc T. , Denecke Kerstin
Published: May 2021

Practice efficiency is influenced by its operations management. We aim at studying implementation of operations management in Swiss medical practices and we develop a dashboard that allows controlling and managing resources. To study operations management and relevant indicators in ambulant care, we distributed questionnaires by e-mail and conducted 6 interviews. In collaboration with a group practice, we collected requirements regarding a dashboard for operations management, developed a mockup and finally a prototype. This prototype was deployed and implemented in daily routine. From the assessments we learned that practice information systems (PIS) are not sufficiently supporting production planning and control. Relevant indicators include processing time per patient or waiting time for quantifying efficiency and identify potential improvements in production. Within 5 weeks of implementation of our dashboard in a group practice, we learned that calculating indicators and support of operations management by means of a dashboard is well appreciated by practice employees. Indicators are considered extremely useful for operations management.
A Design Method of Tele-Rehabilitation Platforms for Post-Stroke Patients Based on Consumer Technology
Authors: Arrigoni Alberto , Cumetti Michele , Greco Andrea , Soliveri Luca , Vitali Andrea
Published: May 2021

Background: Telerehabilitation represents a new cutting-edge method in the treatment of patients suffering from motor and cognitive disorders caused by stroke. Even if there exist dedicated devices able to track patients’ movements to evaluate the performed rehabilitation exercises, they require specific settings necessary for a correct and simple use at the patient’s home. If we consider the recent pandemic situation and the lockdown condition, which made difficult the access to these products, post stroke patients may be not able to perform home rehabilitation. Objectives: the goal of this work is the design of a specific method to develop a tele-rehabilitation platform for post-stroke patients using consumer technologies without involving ad-hoc devices. Method: Open-source tools have been investigated for speeding up the development starting with the medical knowledge. Results: a group of four healthcare technologies engineering students with no specific skills about computer science has developed a platform in four months using the design method. Conclusion: the presented method allowed the development of a clinical knowledge-based web platform for post-stroke patients totally based on consumer technology.
Reporting of Studies Conducted on Austrian Claims Data
Authors: Sunjic-Alic Andrea , Zebenholzer Karin , Gall Walter
Published: May 2021

In healthcare studies, the analysis of claims data is gaining an increasingly important role. Observational studies should be reported in a manner that promotes internal and external validity assessment, with the exact and standardized description of items. Several international guidelines and checklists for reporting on secondary data are available. The aim of this work was to analyse the applicability of reporting guidelines especially for claims data. The STROSA-2 guidelines recommendations were evaluated by means of a report on a study on triptan medications in Austria. Six items were identified which could be expanded to support complete and transparent report on Austrian claims data. Therefore, we would suggest to add some details in the STROSA-2 guidelines concerning study design, legal foundations, data protection, data flow, descriptive results and risk of bias. The guidelines for reporting on Austrian claims data were successfully compiled with additional items. New guidelines should be further processed and tested with strong recommendations to focus on data limitations and legal aspects.
Pathway-Supporting Health Information Systems: A Review
Authors: Scheplitz Tim
Published: May 2021

Care pathways and supporting health information systems (HIS) have been permeate the discipline of Health Information Systems Research (HISR) over years. Traditional objectives of workflow assistance are increasingly extended by interdisciplinary goals from technology, medicine, management and public health research. A systematic literature review is dedicated to this integrating character. It examines the interdisciplinary mesh of objectives associated with care pathways and pathway-supporting HIS in the HISR literature. From 47 identified articles, 6 thematic themes were derived. Their consolidation supports in particular design and development processes as it describes the solution space of future pathway-supporting HIS addressing requirements stated by multiple stakeholders.
Health Pandemic and Social Media: A Content Analysis of COVID-Related Posts on a Telegram Channel With More Than One Million Subscribers
Authors: Mehdipour Simin , Jannati Nazanin , Negarestani Mozhgan , Amirzadeh Saber , Keshvardoost Sareh , Zolala Farzaneh , Vaezipour Atiyeh , Hosseinnejad Maryam , Fatehi Farhad
Published: May 2021

Background: Mobile-based social media play an important role in the dissemination of information during public health emergencies. Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the contents and trends of public messages posted on Telegram during Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods: A content analysis of the 1781 messages, posted in a public Telegram channel with more than one million subscribers performed over 9-weeks. The messages were categorized into seven categories. Results: In total, 39% (n=703) of all messages were related to COVID-19. With the official confirmation of the case of COVID-19 in Iran, the number of COVID-related massages started to rise. Overall, the most frequent messages were of joke and humor (n=292, 41.5%), followed by educational messages (n=140, 19.9%). Conclusion: Our study showed that the most popular messages during first weeks of COVID pandemic were satirical, indicating that people may not had taken the risks of this pandemic seriously. It is crucial for health organizations to develop strategies for dissemination of reliable health information through social media.
Machine Learning Based Risk Prediction for Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events
Authors: Schrempf Michael , Kramer Diether , Jauk Stefanie , Veeranki Sai P. K. , Leodolter Werner , Rainer Peter P.
Published: May 2021

Background: Patients with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) such as myocardial infarction or stroke suffer from frequent hospitalizations and have high mortality rates. By identifying patients at risk at an early stage, MACE can be prevented with the right interventions. Objectives: The aim of this study was to develop machine learning-based models for the 5-year risk prediction of MACE. Methods: The data used for modelling included electronic medical records of more than 128,000 patients including 29,262 patients with MACE. A feature selection based on filter and embedded methods resulted in 826 features for modelling. Different machine learning methods were used for modelling on the training data. Results: A random forest model achieved the best calibration and discriminative performance on a separate test data set with an AUROC of 0.88. Conclusion: The developed risk prediction models achieved an excellent performance in the test data. Future research is needed to determine the performance of these models and their clinical benefit in prospective settings.
Enabling FAIR Discovery of Rare Disease Digital Resources
Authors: Kaliyaperumal Rajaram , Queralt Rosinach Núria , Burger Kees , Bonino da Silva Santos Luiz Olavo , Hanauer Marc , Roos Marco
Published: May 2021

Background: Integration of heterogenous resources is key for Rare Disease research. Within the EJP RD, common Application Programming Interface specifications are proposed for discovery of resources and data records. This is not sufficient for automated processing between RD resources and meeting the FAIR principles. Objective: To design a solution to improve FAIR for machines for the EJP RD API specification. Methods: A FAIR Data Point is used to expose machine-actionable metadata of digital resources and it is configured to store its content to a semantic database to be FAIR at the source. Results: A solution was designed based on grlc server as middleware to implement the EJP RD API specification on top of the FDP. Conclusion: grlc reduces potential API implementation overhead faced by maintainers who use FAIR at the source.
Comparison of the finger plethysmography derived stroke volumes by Nexfin CO Trek and suprasternal aortic Doppler derived stroke volume measurements in adults with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and in healthy controls
Authors: van Campen C. (Linda) M.C. , Verheugt Freek W.A. , Rowe Peter C. , Visser Frans C.
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: Finger plethysmography derived stroke volumes are frequently measured during tilt table testing. There are two algorithms to determine stroke volumes: Modelflow and Nexfin CO Trek. Most tilt studies used Modelflow, while there are differences between the two algorithms. OBJECTIVE: To compare stroke volume indices by Nexfin CO Trek (SVINexfinCOTrek) with suprasternal Doppler derived SVI (SVIDoppler) in healthy controls (HC) and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) patients during tilt testing. These patients may have a large SVI decrease during the tilt enabling a large range of SVI to be studied. METHODS: One hundred and fifty-four patients and 39 HC with a normal tilt test were included. Supine and end-tilt SVIDoppler and SVINexfinCOTrek were compared using the Bland-Altman analysis. Also, the effect of calibrating supine SVINexfinCOTrek to SVIDoppler was studied. RESULTS: Supine and end-tilt SVINexfinCOTrek were significantly higher than SVIDoppler: both P< 0.005. Bias, limits of agreement, and percent error (PE) were high with PE’s between 37 and 43%. The calibration procedure resulted in an acceptable variance with a PE of 29%. CONCLUSIONS: SVINexfinCOTrek overestimates stroke volumes compared to SVIDoppler, leading to high PE’s. Calibration reduced variance to an acceptable level, allowing SVINexfinCOTrek to be used for assessment of SVI changes during tilt testing.
Isolation and potential biocontrol of the fungus causing anthracnose in longan in Vietnam
Authors: Huyen Phan Thi , Thi Xuan Huong Vo , Thanh Nhan Do
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Longan is a crop plant of very high economic value, and both its fruit and flower are beneficial for human health. Longan has been increasingly cultivated in Vietnam due to the increasing demand for domestic consumption as well as export of its fruit. However, the widespread emergence and spread of anthracnose, a group of fungal disease affecting a wide range of plant species, in longan has seriously affected both the longan fruit yield and quality in Vietnam. Current methods for the prevention of anthracnose in longan depend mainly on the use of fungicides which are very harmful to human health as well as disruptive to microbial community structures in different ecosystems. In order to obtain an environmentally friendly method of control for this disease, the agent causing anthracnose in longan must first be identified. Therefore, the aim of this study was to isolate and identify the causal anthracnose agent in longan in Vietnam.
Methods: Experiments were first carried out with pieces of anthracnose longan leaves pressed onto the surface of potato-dextrose agar (PDA) and incubated for days at 30◦C. Colonies, varying in appearance, were repeatedly isolated and purified on PDA agar, and the anthracnose-causing agent was initially recognized on the basis of colony characteristics and cell morphology. The suspected isolate was then tested for its ability to decompose healthy longan leaf in vitro, and its rDNA region was cloned and sequenced to determine its taxonomy. Antifungal activity testing was performed using the co-culture method.
Results: We obtained a fungal isolate with septate hyphae, ovoid appressoria, and conidia (which were cylindrical in shape with rounded ends). This isolate showed a clear ability to decompose healthy longan leaves. At the molecular level, the isolate was determined to be a fungal species belonging to genus Colletotrichum, and therefore named Colletotrichum sp. strain BKHCM. We also found that its growth was inhibited when co-cultured with Streptomyces flaveus, an actinomycete originating from soil.
Conclusion: For the first time, we isolated a fungal species belonging to genus Colletotrichum from anthracnose-infected longan leaves in Vietnam. We also showed that the growth of this fungus could potentially be biocontrolled.
ACUTE HEMODYNAMIC RESPONSE TO ACAPELLA FOLLOWING ABDOMINAL SURGERY
Authors: Brahmini A. , Sankarganesh A.
Published: May 2021

Background: The effectiveness of standard chest physiotherapy (CPT) has been confirmed by many studies. Airway CPT is considered the base of physiotherapy and is characterized as “gold standard” of physiotherapy. Chest physiotherapy is a routinely used therapy to prevent post-operative pulmonary complications after abdominal surgery. There are different types of devices used to deliver PEP but one of the most commonly used is Acapella. It has more stable wave form and a wider range of PEP at low air flow.

Objective: To find out the effect of hemodynamic response to acapella in abdominal surgery patients.

Methodology: Study design is Quasi experimental, study type is pre-test - post-test type, and sampling method is convenient sampling, sample size is 36, study duration of 4 weeks, study setting in SRM medical college hospital research centre, Kattankulathur. Procedure: Acapella device was selected depending upon the patient’s ability to maintain an expiratory flow of 15 litres per minute. Patients were explained with complete procedure prior to examination. Mouthpiece was used during exhalation. Patients were asked to breath from diaphragm taking deep breath. Hold breath for 2-3 seconds. They were asked to Perform 10-20 PEP breaths and then asked to remove the mouthpiece and perform 2-3 ‘huffs’ coughs to raise secretions as needed. This was repeated 3- 4 times. Results: There is no significant improvement by using acapella in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, arterial oxygen saturation rate.

Conclusion: This study concludes that there was an increase in hemodynamic variables during the usage of acapella which return back to normal values in post 30 minutes of training. Thus, acapella is safe, effective to use for airway clearance.

Key words: abdominal surgery, acapella, airway clearance, hemodynamics.
Audit and Assurance Engagement: The Theoretical and Practical Aspects
Authors:   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Honcharuk S. M.
Published: May 2021

The article substantiates the need to develop audit functions related to the accomplishing of assurance engagements. The research used methods of structural and logical analysis, comparison and generalization of the requirements of the International Quality Control, Auditing, Review, Other Assurance, and Related Services Pronouncements, as well as the current legislation. The purpose of assurance is to increase the users’ trust in the information verified by the auditor, which must be reliable and logically grounded. The auditor who performs the assurance engagement concludes that it is intended to increase the degree of trust of future users in the results of the evaluation or comparison of the subject of the engagement with the relevant criteria. The article provides outcomes of an analysis of the market of audit services in Ukraine for 2017–2019, which indicate that the audit market is functioning and is being transformed. The volume of accomplished engagements compared to 2017 has increased by almost UAH 898 million. It is substantiated that the audit firm should adhere to a number of principles that would ensure the assurance of users in the accuracy of information. These can include the following: integrity, continuity, relevance, optimality, efficiency, attracting and preserving customers, monitoring. It is proposed to develop audit in the direction of ensuring the requirements for public awareness about its activities, carrying out inspections of quality control systems, ensuring transparency of contractual relations, the results of the implementation of assurance engagements, as well as the introduction of additional requirements for them, etc.
Blockchain Technology: The Essence and Prospects for Use in the Public Finance System of Ukraine
Authors:   Kharkiv National University of Construction Engineering and Architecture, Solodovnik O. O. , Dokunina K. I. ,   Kharkiv National University of Construction Engineering and Architecture
Published: May 2021

Historically, new investment projects, advanced technologies and financial innovations appear during the crisis period. However, the issues of using modern technologies in the public finance system are at the formation stage, which actualizes the task of arguing the use of innovative technologies that can provide simplicity, speed, and most importantly, the security of most financial transactions in the sphere of public finance. The article is aimed at researching and systematizing existing approaches to defining the essence of the concept of «blockchain» in order to substantiate the directions of improvement of the public administration system and the implementation of blockchain technology in the sphere of public finance. The definition of «blockchain» is studied and its interpretation is proposed as follows: this is a distributed database with registered and ordered economic transactions which, subject to certain conditions, can be connected and to which a specific transaction can be performed. The advantages and disadvantages of using blockchain technology are determined. It is established that blockchain has significant potential for use in various spheres of public life and, despite certain shortcomings, allows to improve the system of public administration. It is argued that to ensure the efficiency, information transparency and security of operations with budget funds, it is advisable to use innovative blockchain technology. It is proved that the implementation of this technology in the sphere of public finance will contribute to solving accumulated problems. It is determined that the modern paradigm of blockchain technology has become the basis for the implementation of smart contracts, but the issue of the use of this technology in such contracts is under formation and needs to be improved in terms of developing the conceptual basis for signing smart contracts by various economic entities.