bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute subdural hematoma in the elderly: outcome analysis in a retrospective multicentric series of 213 patients
Authors: Trevisi Gianluca , Sturiale Carmelo Lucio , Scerrati Alba , Rustemi Oriela , Ricciardi Luca , Raneri Fabio , Tomatis Alberto , Piazza Amedeo , Auricchio Anna Maria , Stifano Vito , Romano Carmine , De Bonis Pasquale , Mangiola Annunziato
Published: October 2020

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to analyze the risk factors associated with the outcome of acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) in elderly patients treated either surgically or nonsurgically.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective multicentric analysis of clinical and radiological data on patients aged ≥ 70 years who had been consecutively admitted to the neurosurgical department of 5 Italian hospitals for the management of posttraumatic ASDH in a 3-year period. Outcome was measured according to the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) at discharge and at 6 months’ follow-up. A GOS score of 1–3 was defined as a poor outcome and a GOS score of 4–5 as a good outcome. Univariate and multivariate statistics were used to determine outcome predictors in the entire study population and in the surgical group.

RESULTS

Overall, 213 patients were admitted during the 3-year study period. Outcome was poor in 135 (63%) patients, as 65 (31%) died during their admission, 33 (15%) were in a vegetative state, and 37 (17%) had severe disability at discharge. Surgical patients had worse clinical and radiological findings on arrival or during their admission than the patients undergoing conservative treatment. Surgery was performed in 147 (69%) patients, and 114 (78%) of them had a poor outcome. In stratifying patients by their Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, the authors found that surgery reduced mortality but not the frequency of a poor outcome in the patients with a moderate to severe GCS score. The GCS score and midline shift were the most significant predictors of outcome. Antiplatelet drugs were associated with better outcomes; however, patients taking such medications had a better GCS score and better radiological findings, which could have influenced the former finding. Patients with fixed pupils never had a good outcome. Age and Charlson Comorbidity Index were not associated with outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Traumatic ASDH in the elderly is a severe condition, with the GCS score and midline shift the stronger outcome predictors, while age per se and comorbidities were not associated with outcome. Antithrombotic drugs do not seem to negatively influence pretreatment status or posttreatment outcome. Surgery was performed in patients with a worse clinical and radiological status, reducing the rate of death but not the frequency of a poor outcome.
Long-term pain outcomes in elderly patients with trigeminal neuralgia: comparison of first-time microvascular decompression and stereotactic radiosurgery
Authors: Raygor Kunal P. , Lee Anthony T. , Nichols Noah , Wang Doris D. , Ward Mariann M. , Barbaro Nicholas M. , Chang Edward F.
Published: October 2020

OBJECTIVE

Common surgical treatments for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) include microvascular decompression (MVD) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). The use of MVD in elderly patients has been described but has yet to be prospectively compared to SRS, which is well-tolerated and noninvasive. The authors aimed to directly compare long-term pain control and adverse event rates for first-time surgical treatments for idiopathic TN in the elderly.

METHODS

A prospectively collected database was reviewed for TN patients who had undergone treatment between 1997 and 2017 at a single institution. Standardized collection of preoperative demographics, surgical procedure, and postoperative outcomes was performed. Data analysis was limited to patients over the age of 65 years who had undergone a first-time procedure for the treatment of idiopathic TN with at least 1 year of follow-up.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-three patients meeting the study inclusion criteria underwent surgical procedures for TN during the study period (54 MVD, 24 MVD+Rhiz, 115 SRS). In patients in whom an artery was not compressing the trigeminal nerve during MVD, a partial sensory rhizotomy (MVD+Rhiz) was performed. Patients in the SRS cohort were older than those in the MVD and MVD+Rhiz cohorts (mean ± SD, 79.2 ± 7.8 vs 72.9 ± 5.7 and 70.9 ± 4.8 years, respectively; p < 0.0001) and had a higher mean Charlson Comorbidity Index (3.8 ± 1.1 vs 3.0 ± 0.9 and 2.9 ± 1.0, respectively; p < 0.0001). Immediate or short-term postoperative pain-free rates (Barrow Neurological Institute [BNI] pain intensity score I) were 98.1% for MVD, 95.8% for MVD+Rhiz, and 78.3% for SRS (p = 0.0008). At the last follow-up, 72.2% of MVD patients had a favorable outcome (BNI score I–IIIa) compared to 54.2% and 49.6% of MVD+Rhiz and SRS patients, respectively (p = 0.02). In total, 0 (0%) SRS, 5 (9.3%) MVD, and 1 (4.2%) MVD+Rhiz patients developed any adverse event. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis demonstrated that procedure type (p = 0.001) and postprocedure sensory change (p = 0.003) were statistically significantly associated with pain control.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study cohort, patients who had undergone MVD had a statistically significantly longer duration of pain freedom than those who had undergone MVD+Rhiz or SRS as their first procedure. Fewer adverse events were seen after SRS, though the MVD-associated complication rate was comparable to published rates in younger patients. Overall, the results suggest that both MVD and SRS are effective options for the elderly, despite their advanced age. Treatment choice can be tailored to a patient’s unique condition and wishes.
Peripheral nerve stimulator for terminal sciatic nerve neuromas in an amputee
Authors: Daggubati Lekhaj C. , Davanzo Justin R. , Rizk Elias B.
Published: October 2020

Neuromas are a difficult-to-treat peripheral nerve pathology that can cause crippling pain. Optimal treatment is widely debated as pharmacological intervention frequently is not sufficient and surgical interventions are plagued with recurrence. The majority of amputees report severe and chronic stump pain. Avoiding complex surgery at the stump site would prevent infection or wound dehiscence. Recent advances in neuromodulation with external pulse emitters allow for pain relief with localized nerve stimulation. The authors describe the novel placement of a sciatic nerve stimulator in a 77-year-old man for painful stump neuromas of the common peroneal and tibial nerves.

The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/96kKs3qjtqc
Brachial plexus avulsion neuropathic refractory pain: association of spinal cord stimulation and DREZotomy for complex pain
Authors: Marques Rômulo A. S. , Cavalcante Rodrigo A. C. , Pimenta Lucas M. C. E.
Published: October 2020

A 52-year-old male was involved in a car accident 30 years ago. He presented with complete motor paralysis of the left upper limb. This evolved into severe neuropathic pain (mainly shocking and burning sensation) distributed from C5 to T1 dermatomes. He was first treated with spinal cord stimulation (SCS), which did not show efficacy for pain control, maintaining high visual analog scale (VAS) scores. He then received complementary treatment with left cervical DREZotomy to mitigate suffering and preserve SCS function to control “mirror pain.”

The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/iTvbLAZ3odM
Hubungan Kepercayaan Diri dengan Kecerdasan Kinestetik Anak Usia 5-6 Tahun di TK IT Al-Ittihad Rumbai Pesisir Kota Pekanbaru
Authors: Mastura  , Novianti Ria , Puspitasari Enda
Published: October 2020

This research is based on observations of researchers at TK IT Al-Ittihad Rumbai PesisirPekanbaru City. In this observation the researchers concluded that kinesthetic intelligence requires good self-confidence. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of Confidence with Kinesthetic Intelligence in Children Aged 5-6 Years at TK IT Al-Ittihad Rumbai Pesisir, Pekanbaru City. This research is a quantitative study with the type of correlation research. The study population was children aged 5-6 years in TK IT Al-Ittihad Rumbai Pesisir Pekanbaru City, with the sample used amounted to 30 children aged 5-6 years. The data collection technique used is observation. Analysis of the study used Pearson product moment correlation test with nominal data characteristics with the help of SPSS IMB ver.24. Based on the calculation results of the correlation test, the results of the bivariate correlation coefficient obtained between Confidence with kinesthetic intelligence of rxy = 0.964. This shows that there is a relationship between self-confidence with kinesthetic intelligence. As an evaluation criterion, if probability> 0.05 then Ho is accepted, whereas if probability <0.05 then Ho is rejected (Syofian, 2014). In the correlation test table results obtained a probability number of 0,000, where 0,000 <0.05 then Ho is rejected. This means that there is a significant positive relationship between the two variables.
Belajar Melalui Musik Dengan Menerapkan Metode Orff
Authors: Ridwan  , Wulandari Hayani , Ardiyanti Dhea
Published: October 2020

Artikel ini berfokus pada penanaman belajar melalui musik dengan menggunakan metode orff bagi guru maupun calon guru Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini (PAUD). Hubungannya pada aspek perkembangan anak, melalui metode ini dapat menumbuhkan rasa musikalitas anak dengan melalui kegiatan-kegiatan dasar seperti bernyanyi, menari, beracting dan memainkan alat musik. Bentuk memainkan alat musik disini bukan hanya memainkan alat musik yang pada umumnya, akan tetapi dapat juga memanfaatkan dari barang-barang yang ada dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode eksperimen dengan desain pre-eksperimen one-shot case study. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan melalui kegiatan webinar dengan peserta guru dan calon guru Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini (PAUD). Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk memberikan gambaran dengan jelas kepada para pendidik maupun calon pendidik mengenai pelaksanaan pembelajaran melalui musik yang kreatif pada anak usia dini melalui penggunaan metode Orff. Memiliki pemahaman akan metode Orff ini sangat diperlukan baik itu secara teoritis maupun praktis sehingga guru dan calon guru tidak hanya dapat meningkatkan pengetahuan mereka, akan tetapi dapat mengaplikasikan pembelajaran yang kreatif, inovatif dan menarik pada Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini (PAUD) tentunya tetap disesuaikan dengan karakteristik anak.

Kata Kunci : Musik, Metode Orff, Anak Usia Dini
A Watermarking Method for Selective Image Authentication Tollerant to JPEG Compression, Brightness and Contrast Adjustments
Authors: Zhuvikin A.
Published: October 2020

One of the most promising application of the digital watermarking is the selective image authentication (SIA) systems. In order to implement such a system one requires an embedding algorithm with an appropriate capacity. In addition, an embedding method is to be robust for the class of non-malicious manipulations which the SIA system is designed for. We propose the new method which has a significant embedding capacity while still being tolerant to JPEG compression, brightness and contrast adjustments. This was possible due to the extension of the well-known discrete wavelet transform embedding technique. We propose two-step embedding scheme and the use of image histogram equalisation and recovering operations. The experiment results show acceptable tolerance to JPEG compression, brightness and contrast adjustments with good visual quality in terms of PSNR just after embedding.
Equivalent to the Probability of Error with Block Error Correction Codes
Authors: Bliadze A. , Gurevich V.
Published: October 2020

The probabilities of bit and code errors are compared when using non-redundant
and noise-resistant block codes in a digital radio system for transmitting information. The analysis results are accompanied by graphs that allow you to select the bit rate of the noise-tolerant code necessary to ensure the specified probability of code errors.
Meter of Two Angular Coordinates with a Space-Time Radiated Signal
Authors: Orlov V. , Poddubny S.
Published: October 2020

The article describes the development of an algorithm of operation of a monopulse meter of two angular coordinates with two receiving channels with using complex space-time emitted signal. The azimuth of the target estimates by using the received space-time signals. The elevation estimates by using the phase monopulse method. Calculations of the Ambiguity Functions (AF) of space-time signals, their anal-ysis to identify the influence of the angular code on the form of AF and measuring precision of angular coordinates. The calculation of discriminating characteristics of the position angle and azimuth meters is performed.
Overview of current research in Mobile Health
Authors: Zaharov M. , Kirichek R. , Koucheryavy A.
Published: October 2020

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in attention to such a topic as e-Health, as well as one of its main areas - mobile e-health (mHealth). This is due to global trends, such as the increased attention of state institutions to the health of their citizens, the desire of people to maintain their health and improve the quality of life, digitalization and qualitative growth in the level of medical services, the development and dissemination of personal wearable electronic equipment and ICT technologies. The article discusses a typical architecture of a network for providing mHealth services, which includes a user's smart phone or tablet with specialized software, various mHealth devices, such as an analyzer of the composition of food and drugs or a wearable biometric sensor, as well as a remote cloud server for processing and long-term storage of user data, for connection to Internet is used. The article provides an overview of works on the mHealth topic. In particular, it is noted that at present, Russian and foreign scientists are actively studying the architecture of networks, the characteristics of the generated mHealth network traffic. Peculiarities of using mHealth mobile applications for collecting and analyzing primary data on the user's health are considered. Active research is underway on the performance of mHealth devices, such as portable personal infrared micro spectrometers, which are capable of highly efficient field analysis of food and drug composition. It is noted that such devices and related services may become quite popular in the very near future.
auto antibodies in Iraqi patients with spinal cord injury
Authors: Mahdi Battool M. , Halabia Sana'al , Sadiq Zahraa mahdi
Published: October 2020

backgrund:
Serological markers “CEA test & sAPRIL test” in Iraqi patients with colon cancer
Authors: Mahmood Aqeel H. , Zeiny Sarmad M.H. , Mahmood Aqeel Sh.
Published: October 2020

Background: Colonic cancer is a very common disease world-wide being fourth most common cancer characterized by abnormal proliferation of the inner wall of colon then taking full colon wall thickness then spreading to surrounding lymph nodes and tissues and finally distant metastasis. It is one of most complicated diseases with debilitating symptoms which becomes more sever , prominent and specific with advancing stage with high percent of fatality and relatively short survival if diagnosed late or if left untreated.Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of serum CEA & sAPRIL levels in the diagnosis and screening of colon cancer and their validity for this.Patients and methods: This study was applied on 35 patients with colonic cancer, 35 patients with benign polyps and 15 negative controls. All individuals were subjected to blood sampling for measuring their serum CEA & sAPRIL using ELISA technique.Results: In this study, majority of patients with colon cancer were presented at ages between 53-82 years of age (mean 68.5±6.4 years). Serum levels of sAPRIL & CEA were significantly elevated in those patients with advancing stages (C & D) compared with stages (A & B) and lower levels were found in patients who had surgical removal of tumor or received chemotherapy. Also a positive relation was found between sAPRIL & CEA with alcohol intake and smokingConclusion: according to this study sample it was found that sAPRIL and CEA together are strong indicators for colon cancer screening & diagnosis, and by this will reduce the need for more invasive screening & diagnostic tools.
Partial Mole Coexistence with a Normal Live Fetus in Twin Pregnancy
Authors: Alkateeb Saabh I. , Alkhalidy Hala M.
Published: October 2020

We present a case of dizygotic diamiontic twin pregnancy in which one fetus was normal with normal placenta, the 2nd fetus was normal appearing with partial molar placenta. All required investigation and clinical assessments were carried out and revealing partial molar pregnancy in one fetus and normal placenta of the other one. Maternal BhCG was high for  gestational age.The patient was a 31-year-old presented to Central Private Hospital; her gestational age was 22 weeks +5 days following IVF (after 10 years of primary infertility) of diazygotic diamiontic twin pregnancy as a case of vaginal bleeding from 8 weeks of gestation with uterine contractions.
The patient had gestational DM & hyperthyroidism. Appropriate treatment regarding her conditions was implemented
All appropriate management was implemented. The patient continued to bleed. Within few days of admission she had premature uncomplicated labor with normal vaginal delivery (gestational age was23 Wks +3 days), both babies appeared normal, one placenta morphologically &histologically typical of H.mole. The other one completely was normal.
Monitoring of serum BhCG and follow up transvaginal US was done until BhCG level returned to normal after 3 months of delivery without chemotherapy.
Close monitoring of pregnancy from early stages and discussing the possible complications to mother and baby (such as baby may be chromosomally abnormal &may not survive) with parents is important to manage such complications.
It is also necessary to have post-natal close follow up for maternal BhCG levels to assess any possibility of invasive mole or choriocarcinoma.
Attitude of Medical Students University of Baghdad toward Psychiatry:Clinical significance and as future career
Authors: Younis Maha S. , Mahdi Abbas alrubayee Fadhil
Published: October 2020

Background: Psychiatry is an important branch of medicine and has been an integral part of the academic curriculum in Baghdad College of Medicine since its establishment. Medical students have a different attitude towards it as a medical profession like other specialties of medicine and as future medical career.
Objectives: This study aims to explore the attitudes of medical students towards psychiatry in general and as a future career after their course of clerkship in the Department of Psychiatry in Baghdad Teaching Hospital.
Patients and Methods: During the year 2016, 158 male and female students of fifth and sixth years participated in a brief five-question survey derived from the international questionnaire-Attitude towards Mental Illness (AMI) assessing their perspectives toward importance of psychiatry as medical discipline to study and as their future career choice.
Results:   The female to male ratio was 2:1. Of all the respondents, 86.6% indicated the clinical significance of psychiatry as a profession. Only 23% said that they would choose psychiatry as their future career. Nearly half of them attributed improvement of their attitudes to the positive effect of tutoring. Generally, there were no prominent gender differences in the responses 
Conclusion: The vast majority of the students had a positive attitude towards psychiatry in general yet it wasn’t preferred as their future career. It is thought that education and training of psychiatry may ameliorate the negative attitude towards the clinical importance but it may not affect their career aspiration.
Etiological factors of cholestasis ininfancy andearly childhood in Children Welfare Teaching Hospital
Authors: Ibraheem Mohammad Fadhil , Mahmood Adnan Y. , Salih Jasim M.
Published: October 2020

A
Background: Neonatal cholestasis is defined as prolonged elevation of the serum level of conjugated
bilirubin beyond the first 14 days of life. There are many causes of neonatal cholestasis which must be  identified because early intervention may result in a better outcome , such as surgical intervention in biliary atresia within two months from birth , or effective dietary management in metabolic disorders like  galactosemia.
Objective:To determine the causes of early childhood cholestasis in children attending the Children Welfare
Teaching Hospital in Baghdad and to study some of associated factors in infancy and early childhood  cholestasis.
Patient and method: This is a cross sectional descriptive study conducted on 48 patients attending the  Children Welfare Teaching Hospital in Baghdad for the period of 1Novembe r 2015 to 15 January 2016. These cases were evaluated by thorough history, examination and investigations. Results:O the 48 patients enrolled in this study, 30 (62.5%) lived in Baghdad, and the remaining 37.5% were referred from other governorates .  the mean age of the patients was 11.1 ± 12.4 months, with 20 females (41.7%) and 28 males (58.3%). The  Results revealed that 11(22.9%)were the result of congenital infections , 9 (18.8%) were idiopathic in origin, 8
(16.7%) were caused by biliary atresia, 8 (16.7%) of unknown origin, 5 (10.4%) were caused by sepsis (mainly
staphylococcus, streptococcus species, E coli, staphylococcus aureus) , 2 (4.2%) were caused by progressive
familial intrahepatic cholestasis and 1 (2.1%) case was caused by each of the following causes: Alagille  snyndrome, Choledochal cyst, Galactosemia, hypothyroidism and Tyrosinemia.
Conclusion: Congenital infections were the most common cause in this study, of which the most common is cytomegalovirus ( CMV ). Clay color stool and high alkaline phosphatase levels were found mostly in biliary  atresia. No method by itself is sufficient to diagnose the cause of neonatal cholestasis. D iagnosis can only be established using all available methods.
Ultrasound Findings of MammographicallyDense Breasts in a Sample of Iraqi Female PatientsDOI:https
Authors: Mohson Khaleel , Kareem Tara F. , Awn Anas K.
Published: October 2020

Background: Breast problems including breast cancer have been increasing in Iraq during the recent years. Yet, early detection and screening programs using mammography mainly with complementary ultrasound had dramatically decreased the mortality rates from this emerging disease.
Objective: To assess the dense breast detected by mammography for the presence of any hidden
suspicious lesion by using ultrasound.
 Patients and methods:  this is a cross - sectional study on 53 female patients who came for breast cancer
screening or attended the Breast Clinic in the Oncology Teaching Hospital of the Medical City Complex in Baghdad –Iraq. The study was conducted from January to October 2018. Two -view mammography was done for each breast, and those with dense breasts underwent further ultrasound assessment done by a board-
certified radiologist.
Results: The mean age for the 53 patients included in the study was 48 years. Mammographic findings
showed that heterogeneous fibroglandular tissue density was present in (89%) of the study population.
Suspicious or clearly defined mass(es) by mammograph were seen in 16 (30%) of the patients, while no
mass was identified in (22%). Ultrasound findings we re as follows: Suspicious mass in (75%) of the cases
and benign lesions such as simple cysts or fibroadenoma in (9%). The results showed that ultrasound has
upgraded 12 cases that were diagnosed as BI -RADS I/II to BI-RADS IV/V and this represented (23%) of
the cases. On the other hand, the mammogram and the ultrasound were in concordance for BI  RADS
IV/V in 28 cases (54%). The positive predictive value of the ultrasound and the mammogram for BI -
RADS IV and V breast lesions is 72% for BI - RADS IV and 95% for BI - RADS V for ultrasound and that  of mammograph is 83% for BI - RADS IV 80% for BI- RADS V, while the negative predictive value of  mammograph is 55% for BI - RADS I/II 25% for BI - RADS III.
Conclusion: Dense breast is still an important problematic issue in mammographic screening as it may
obscure small lesions, for which, ultrasound is proved to be a complementary and essential targeting tool
in the assessment process.
Risk factors of hearing defects and their relationship to the outcome of hearing screening among neonates
Authors: Hameed Numan Nafie , Malih Mokhalad Ghazi
Published: October 2020

Background: Increased exposure to risk factors of hearing loss leads to a high susceptibility to deafness
among neonates admitted to neonatal care units in developing countries.
Objective: This article aims to study the prevalence of risk factors for neonatal hearing defect and determine their effect on the result of transient evoked otoacoustic emissions hearing test ( TEOAE). Methods: A longitudinal study was carried out for a period of one year from 1st October, 2016 to 30 th September, 2017 in the CWTH, Medical city, Baghdad, Iraq Demographic characteristics and certain risk factors were recorded for screened neonates. TEOAE test was done and if they failed to pass two  steps, they were referred to
autom ated auditory brainstem - response (AABR).
Results: Out of 400 neonates, 342 (85.5%) passed from step 1TEOAE, while 58 (14.5%) were referred to step 2. From 58, 26 (44.8%) have passed step 2 and 32 (55.2%) not pass step 2 and were referred to AABR. From those 32 neonates with suspected hearing defect, NICU stay >7 days, ototoxic drugs >7days, use of ventilator >7 days, birth weight <1500gm, and craniofacial malformations were the main risk factors for hearing defects occurring in (90.6%), (90.6%), (59.4%), (40.6%), and (21.9%) respectively. 
Conclusions:  Low birth weight , long intensive care stay, mechanical ventilation, drugs ototoxicity and
craniofacial malformation of neonates are the main risk factors for failed TEOAE test
The Prevalence of Physical Disability in Elderly SAMPLE in Primary Health Care Centers (PHCs) in AL-Resafa Sector /Baghdad/2018
Authors: Hassan Rana A. , Hasan Lamyaa Ali
Published: October 2020

Background
The proportion of older population throughout the world is continuously increasing, and becomes a challenge worldwide, since it may lead to an increasing number of disabled populations, and to a rise of the national health burden, and so there is greater need to look into their physical disability aspects, which is otherwise neglected.
Objectives
To estimate the prevalence of Activity of Daily Living dependency(ADL) in primary health care centers(PHCs)  in AL Resafa health sector in Baghdad, and to find association between dependency and some sociodemographic factors.
Method
A Descriptive cross- sectional study was carried out in all PHCs in AL Resafa health sector in Baghdad and 250 elderly were interviewed using pretested questionnaire which covered some Sociodemographic factors and Barthal index scale( a 10 item instrument measuring functional independence in personal Activities of Daily Living).
Results
250 participants all of them are aged 60 year and older, those aged 60 to 69 years were 47.6%, minority aged 80 years and older , elderly female were slightly more than male (51.6%,48.4% ), Most of participants 97.6% were living in company with their families, 82.0% were not currently employed, 48% overweight , According to Barthal index scale score: 78.0% were independent while ADL with assistance observed in 15.2% and those of ADL with severity 6.8%. There was a significant association between increase in age, Female gender, low education and obesity with decrease in ADL.
Conclusion
Preserving functional capacity of elderly is a great challenge to public health, subjects categorization on the basis of  Barthel index to correlates functional disability will be of value for a better quality of life.
Epidemiology of the domestic and repatriation (Covid-19) Infection in Al Najaf province , Iraq
Authors: Al-Shaibani Ahmed H. Al- Shareef
Published: October 2020

ABSTRACT
Background: Al-Najaf province , Iraq , has experienced an outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of (Covid-19) infection have been reported but a detailed clinical course and risk factors for mortality including medical comorbidities and severity of illness at time of presentation , have not been well described.
Methods: From February 24 to April 7, 2020, a case series study done on 123 PCR-confirmed cases of (Covid-19) admitted to Al-Hakeem Hospital And Quarantine Center (AHQC), in Al-Najaf Province, Iraq. Demographics, clinical and laboratory data  gathered from a local database at (AHQC). SPSS(statistical package for social sciences) used for statistical analysis. Frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation used as descriptive statistics. Chi square or Yates corrected chi square used as needed.(P value≤0.05) regarded significant.
Results: In total of 123 Patients, most infections occur  inside Iraq 96(78%) .The cohort included 67 (54.5%) females and 56 (45.5%) males, mean age was 32.58±18.56 years. most infections were mild or asymptomatic (72.3%). The most common symptoms was fever (74.8% ) , followed by cough (66.7%), headache (59.3%), and dyspnoea (28.5%). Most  patients 108(87.8%) recovered and four patients (3.3%) died. There is a significant association between medical comorbidities , severity of illness and  patients outcome (P value  <0.001).
Conclusions: The potential risk factors of medical comorbidities and severity of illness could help clinicians to identify patients with poor prognosis at an early stage and provides the rationale for a treatment strategy of infected patients and optimal antiviral interventions in the future.
Berufsbildung für eine nachhaltige Entwicklung am Beispiel des Ausbildungsberufs Milchtechnologin/Milchtechnologe – Der Modellversuch NaMiTec
Authors: Beer Mareike
Published: October 2020

Dieser Beitrag widmet sich der Frage, wie nachhaltigkeitsbezogene Kompetenzen innerhalb der dualen Berufsausbildung in der Milchtechnologie gefördert und wie entsprechende Lernsituationen, orientiert an den konkreten beruflichen Handlungsfeldern, entwickelt werden können. Dabei liegt ein besonderer Fokus des Beitrags auf dem zugrunde liegenden Kompetenzmodell sowie auf der Implementierung in die Ausbildungsstrukturen.
Die Wertschöpfungskette der Lebensmittelindustrie alsResonanzraum – Ein offenes Lernaufgabenkonzept im betrieblichen Einsatz
Authors: Pranger Jan , Hantke Harald
Published: October 2020

Inwiefern können für den betrieblichen Teil der dualen Ausbildung Lernaufgaben entwickelt werden, die an die betrieblichen Alltagserfahrungen der Lernenden anknüpfen und gleichzeitig nachhaltigkeitsorientierte Wahrnehmungs-, Reflexions- und Gestaltungsräume ermöglichen? Mögliche Antworten auf diese Frage gibt ein offenes Lernaufgabenkonzept, das im Rahmen des Modellversuchs NaReLe in der Domäne der Lebensmittelindustrie entstanden ist.
Trans-Sustain – Transversales Kompetenzmanagement für mehr Nachhaltigkeit in den Berufsbildern des Fleischerhandwerks und der Fleischwarenindustrie
Authors: Reißland Jens , Müller Claudia , Reinhardt Kai , Schwarzkopf Julia , Ermer Carolin
Published: October 2020

Trans-Sustain steht für die Erforschung und Entwicklung eines ganzheitlich und transversal angelegten Kompetenzrahmens. In diesem Beitrag wird der Ansatz des transversal angelegten Kompetenzmanagements als ein Weg, zur Umsetzung von komplexen Lernzielen vorgestellt. Mit einem transversalen Kompetenzmanagement wird es möglich, die Systeme und Inhalte zum systematischen Kompetenzaufbau zu gestalten und damit die Systemebenen zwischen Praxis und anwendungsorientierter Bildung durchlässiger und anschlussfähiger zu machen.
Methodology for compiling a microbial resistance passport for dairy farms
Authors: Krivonogova Anna , Donnik Irina , Isaeva Al'bina , Moiseeva Kseniya
Published: October 2020

Abstract. The article presents the results of the work, the purpose of which was to create a microbial resistance passport for a dairy farm. Methods. Conducted studies of opportunistic pathogenic microflora in various technological areas, there were taken samples of feed, water, air, bedding, washings from the wool and mucous membranes of cows and calves, washings from surfaces, fences, technological equipment, and livestock care equipment. There were determined the frequency of occurrence and the proportion of microorganisms in the structure of the opportunistic microbiocenosis. Results. It was found that on all surveyed dairy farms, the nucleus of opportunistic microbiocenosis was represented by Ent. faecium, Ent. faecalis, S. aureus, S. epidermidis, S. saprophyticus, P. aeruginosa, P. vulgaris, P. mirabilis, Echerichia coli, Aspergillus spp. and C. albicans – the frequency of occurrence of these microorganisms in samples exceeded 15 %. We studied the two-year dynamics of the microbiocenoses composition on farms. It was found that the main nucleus of the microbiocenosis remained stable in species composition, and the percentage of stocks was subject to slight changes. There were carried out he studies of the sensitivity of all detected stocks to antibiotics, based on the results of which were compiled resistances profiles, methods were developed for the analysis of general indicators of microbial resistance throughout the enterprise and in individual technological areas, and were established the ways of spreading resistant stocks on the farm. On the basis of four criteria, including the effectiveness of the antibiotic against the target microorganism, the effectiveness against the non-target microorganism in vitro, the degree of growth inhibition, the minimum inhibitory concentration, the antibiotic susceptibility analysis of the main pathogenic microorganisms was carried out in points. The results obtained were used to predict the expected effectiveness of antibiotics in different technological areas of the farm. The novelty of the researches is in the development of an algorithm for compiling a passport of microbial resistance of a dairy farm, which includes analysis of opportunistic microbiocenosis, analysis of antibiotic sensitivity of microorganisms and prediction of the expected effectiveness of antibacterial drugs.
Search for polymorphic variants of the LCORL gene using Senger sequencing in chickens of various directions of productivity
Authors: Larkina Tat'yana , Krutikova Anna , Peglivanyan Grigoriy , Dement'eva N.
Published: October 2020

Abstract. The effect of polymorphic variants of the LCORL gene in many species of farm animals was revealed. It is believed that the LCORL gene is associated with skeleton sizes in chickens, but has not yet been adequately studied. Therefore, we are faced with the task of finding new polymorphic variants in the LCORL gene in gene pool breeds. The aim of the work is to search for and analyze polymorphic variants in the LCORL gene using Senger sequencing in breeds of various types of productivity. Methodology and methods. The studies were carried out on the basis of the laboratory of molecular genetics of All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Animals. The object of the experiment was populations of 4 breeds of chickens of different directions in productivity of the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Animals Biological Resource Collection “Genetic Collection of Rare and Endangered Breeds of Chickens” (Pushkin, St. Petersburg): Kornish, Kitayskaya shelkovaya, Ital’yanskaya kuropatchataya, Pushkinskaya. 61 DNA samples served as the material for the study. amplification was performed on a Thermal Cycler T100 instrument (Bio-Rad, USA). Nucleotide sequences were determined on an Applied Biosystems 3500 automated sequencer (Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., USA) at the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Animals Laboratory of Molecular Genetics. The Big Dye Terminator Cycle Sequencing Kit (Applied Biosystems, USA) was used for sequencing. Biometric data processing was performed using Microsoft Excel. Results. The study revealed genetic variation in polymorphic variants A30G, G82C, G236T, A342G, A450C, A503G, A508G in the intron of the LCORL gene of chicken populations of different directions of productivity. The results suggest that the polymorphic A30G variant of the LCORL gene can be considered as a DNA marker for the sign of “skeleton size” in chickens.
Improvement of the grapes propagation technology in vitro
Authors: Lekonceva Tat'yana , Fedorov Aleksandr
Published: October 2020

Abstract. The aim of research is improvement of the production technology in vitro of the grapes Pamyati Dombkovskoy. Methods. Methods generally accepted in the practice of clonal micropropagation of plants were applied. There are sterilization of the starting material, introduction into culture, clonal micropropagation, and in vitro rooting, followed by adaptation to in vivo conditions. The study object was micro cuttings grapes of the cultural variety Pamyati Dombkovskoy. The experiments were set up in three replicates, one replication was at least 10 test tubes. Statistical processing of the data obtained was carried out by the dispersion method according to B. A. Dospekhov. The following parameters were taken into account: micro-shoots and microplants heights, leaves number, proliferation coefficient. Root development was assessed in points. The success of adaptation was considered as the percentage of adapted microplants to the total number planted in the substrate. At the stage of adaptation, we applied supplemented and developed by us technique during clonal micropropagation of the Angelica rose. Research result. Success of estanlishment explants was 40 % on Murashige and Skoog growing medium with a reduced content of macronutrients, when introduced into a sterile culture in vitro. The optimal concentration of 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BAP) was determined at the proliferation stage – 1 mg/l. There are decrease in the proliferation coefficient from 4.4 pcs/cutting to 3.3 and 2.9 pcs/cutting respectively with an increase in the concentration of cytokinin 6-BAP to 2.0 and 3.0 mg / l (LSD05 = 1.0). It was revealed that the best growing medium for rooting micrograpes is the environment according to Zlenko and others, when the best microplants development is achieved according to such morphometric parameters as microshoots height, leaves number and root system. On the medium Zlenko and others, microplants height was higher by 4.3 mm than the control with LSD05 = 2.7, the number of leaves was more by 0.5 with LSD05 = 0.3, and the root system of microplants is better developed by 0.4 points (LSD05 = 0.2). Scientific novelty. Positive results were received when rooted grapes cuttings were adapted after 14 days of cultivation on rooting medium, which allows to reduce the duration of micro grapes in a test tube in 2–4 times compared with the conventional method. The use of the biological product “Trichoderma Veride” for watering the soil substrate with the subsequent spraying of adaptable microplants with the organosilicone fertilizer “Siliplant” is recommended.
Frost Damage of Carinata Grown in the Southeastern US
Authors: Mulvaney Michael J. , Seepaul Ramdeo (Andy) , Small Ian M. , Wright David L. , Paula-Moraes Silvana V. , Crozier Carl , Cockson Paul , Whipker Brian , Leon Ramon
Published: October 2020

Brassica carinata is an annual oilseed crop used for the commercial production of jet fuel. One of the challenges to commercialization of this crop in the southeastern United States has been frost damage. This 4-page fact sheet discusses symptomology and ways to minimize risk of frost damage to carinata. Written by Michael J. Mulvaney, Ramdeo Seepaul, Ian Small, David Wright, Silvana Paula-Moraes, Carl Crozier, Paul Cockson, Brian Whipker, and Ramon Leon, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, May 2018. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ag420
Cost and Return Estimates of a Mamey Sapote Grove in South Florida, 2017
Authors: Ballen Fredy H. , Singh Aditya , Evans Edward A. , Crane Jonathan H.
Published: October 2020

The objective of this 6-page fact sheet written by Fredy H. Ballen, Aditya Singh, Edward A. Evans, and Jonathan Crane and published by the UF/IFAS Food and Resource Economics Department is to provide an estimate of the costs and returns associated with an established mamey sapote orchard in south Florida.https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fe1039
The Migration Pattern of Florida Seasonal Farmworkers
Authors: Guan Zhengfei , Qushim Berdikul , Wu Feng , Whidden Alicia J.
Published: October 2020

This article investigates the migration pattern of seasonal farmworkers in the Florida strawberry industry based on a worker survey conducted in 2016. In the survey, we asked workers where they were working and what crops they were working on before this job. We also asked where they would migrate and what crops they would be working on after this job.  We found most workers were from Florida, Michigan, North Carolina, California in that order, and similar percentages of workers would migrate to these states after the job. Blueberries, tomatoes, and apples were the top three crops they were working on before and after the job.
Pest Identification Guide: Bondar’s Nesting Whitefly: Paraleyrodes bondari
Authors: Casuso Nicole A , Smith Hugh A.
Published: October 2020

Bondar’s nesting whitefly (Paraleyrodes bondari) is an emerging pest in Florida that targets ficus species, hibiscus, sugar apple, guava, and citrus, among others. Learn to identify these tiny flies with this handy, 2-page guide written by Nicole A. Casuso and Hugh A. Smith and published by the UF/IFAS Entomology and Nematology Department.https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1204
Anthracnose on Southern Highbush Blueberry
Authors: Phillips Douglas A , Velez-Climent Maria C. , Harmon Philip F. , Munoz Patricio R.
Published: October 2020

Information contained in this 4-page publication is intended for Florida blueberry growers to use as a guide in the identification of anthracnose, a group of fungal pathogens that affects a wide range of plants, including southern highbush blueberries (SHB). Written by Douglas A. Phillips, Maria C. Velez-Climent, Philip F. Harmon, and Patricio R. Munoz and published by the UF/IFAS Plant Pathology Department, May 2018.https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pp337
Recreational Harvest of the Florida Bay Scallop: Wakulla County
Authors: Barry Savanna
Published: October 2020

This handy brochure includes a full-color map identifying access routes to the boat ramps and marinas in Wakulla County, plus the latest information on scallops and scalloping, the recommended equipment you will want to bring, and a few tasty recipes for preparing Florida’s best summertime catch. Written by Savanna Barry and published by the UF/IFAS Extension Florida Sea Grant College Program. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/sg149

Revised May 2019.
Helping Agritourism Visitors Learn During their Visits
Authors: Stofer Kathryn A , Rumble Joy N
Published: October 2020

Agritourism is a growing industry in Florida, and combines two of the state’s major assets: tourism and agriculture. This 4-page document outlines ways that agritourism operators can incorporate meaningful educational opportunities into their operation. Written by Kathryn Stofer and Joy N. Rumble and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication, June 2018.https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wc308
EFFICACY OF PHENYLEPHRINE OVER EPHEDRINE IN CONTROLLING FALL OF BLOOD PRESSURE: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING LOWER SEGMENT CAESAREAN SECTION
Authors: Agrawal Keshav Saran , Mahanta Aruna
Published: October 2020

Background: most of the lower segment caesarean sections are done under spinal anesthesia and in more that 80% of the cases, maternal fall in blood pressure can be observed intraoperatively. Throughout history many vasopressor drugs have been evaluated for the treatment. Aim: our research was conducted to compare the effect of phenylephrine with ephedrine given for the prophylaxis of prevention of intraoperative fall in blood pressure in females who are undergoing LSCS. Materials and Methods: a total of 100 cases were considered for our study and were randomly distributed in two groups. Group A cases were administered Phenylephrine while ephedrine was given to group B cases just after spinal anesthesia. Results: most of our study subjects were in the age group of 21-25 years who were in the range of 51-55 kgs. Spinal anesthesia was given by using bupivacaine & block level was checked at 2 & 5 mins. Phenylephrine was found to be superior in control of fall in blood pressure as more than 90% of the cases were brought back to their preoperative levels in less than 4 mins after spinal anesthesia. Whereas in group B, ephedrine took much more time of around 10 mins for control of BP. Conclusion: with proper monitoring of heart rate, phenylephrine is superior to ephedrine in controlling the fall in blood pressure.

Keywords: Ephedrine, Phenylephrine, Hypotension, Bradycardia.
EFFECT OF NICOTINE SMOKE ON LIVER AND KIDNEYS OF ADULT MALE ALBINO RATS: AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY
Authors: Syed Midhat , Shangloo Prenika
Published: October 2020

Apart from heart and lungs, being cited as the main affected organs by nicotine smoke and hence, contributing for the morbidity and mortality, other organs like kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, liver, reproductive organs, endocrine glands, skin etc. are also affected. In the current study we planned to evaluate the effects of nicotine smoke on liver and kidneys. The study was conducted on 12 inbred adult Wistar albino rats; 6 animals acting as control and remaining 6 acting as test group. The animals of control group were given only sterile water where as animals of test group were exposed to smoke produced from the nicotine wrapped in a cotton wool in the dose of 6mg/day three times a day for each session of 5 minutes each for 5 days. Each rat was exposed to the smoke produced due to nicotine separately in a closed inhalational chamber and not in groups. The rats were sacrificed after the period of experimentation and testis were dissected out and subjected further to tissue processing for histological examination. The histological examination of tissue sections of liver of test group animals revealed distorted or normal lobular architecture of hepatic lobules with dilated and congested central vein, portal venule and hepatic sinusoids. Also, there was presence of focal inflammatory aggregates especially around bile canaliculi at portal triads. On the other hand, the tissue sections of liver of control group showed normal hepatic architecture with normal hepatocytes. The renal specimens of the control group also demonstrated normal renal architectural pattern; with glomeruli surrounded by urinary space and renal tubules present in cortex and medulla composed of collecting tubules, loop of henle and convoluted tubules. On the contrary, the renal sections of test group showed dilation of urinary space, shrunken and distorted glomeruli with some renal tubules showing solid cord like pattern and some showing eosinophilic material in lumen, focal inflammatory infiltrates and renal congestion.

Keywords: Nicotine smoke, liver, kidney
A REVIEW ON CONTROLLED RELEASE MATRIX TABLET
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Sharma Vijay , Rathore D.S.
Published: October 2020

Oral route is the most convenient route of drug administration. So far so many oral dosage forms have been developed to improve the patient compliance. The drugs with less half life are eliminated from the body with in short period of time. Different types of extended release matrix tablet have been explained briefly along with the various formulation which mainly by wet granulation or direct compression method or by dispersion of solid particle within a porous matrix formed by using different polymers. This review highlights the types of matrices, mechanisms involved and evaluation studies.

 Keywords: Controlled release, matrix tablet, Polymer, Diffusion