bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Financial Performances of Hospital Services Subsector By ELECTRE Method
Authors: Bozdogan Cansu , Odabas Alper
Published: May 2021

Measuring and evaluating financial performance in healthcare enterprises is important for decision-makers to evaluate the past and comment on the future. In this study, Turkey hospital services of the sub-sectors of evaluate the financial performance are aimed. For this purpose, the Republic of Turkey's financial performance with ELECTRE method that the Central Bank released was that the industry's financial performance between the data with the help of hospital services sub-sectors of the 2008-2016 years are taken from the balance sheet of the multi-criteria decision-making methods were measured. As a result, Turkey hospital services sub-sectors of the 9-years financial performance is evaluated, starting from the years of exchange between hospital services sub-sectors will contribute to the users about the results we have tried to be included.
A finite element model of the human lower thorax to pelvis spinal segment: Validation and modal analysis
Authors: Fan Wei , Zhao Dan , Guo Li-Xin
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: Several finite element (FE) models have been developed to study the effects of vibration on human lumbar spine. However, the authors know of no published results so far that have proposed computed tomography-based FE models of whole lumbar spine including the pelvis to conduct dynamic analysis. OBJECTIVE: To create and validate a three-dimensional ligamentous FE model of the human lower thorax to pelvis spinal segment (T12–Pelvis) and provide a detailed simulation environment to investigate the dynamic characteristics of the lumbar spine under whole body vibration (WBV). METHODS: The T12–Pelvis model was generated based on volume reconstruction from computed tomography scans and validated against the published experimental data. FE modal analysis was implemented to predict dynamic characteristics associated with the first-order vertical resonant frequency and vibration mode of the model with upper body mass of 40 kg under WBV. RESULTS: It was found that the current FE model was validated and corresponded closely with the published data. The obtained results from the modal analysis indicated that the first-order vertical resonant frequency of the T12–Pelvis model was 6.702 Hz, and the lumbar spine mainly performed vertical motion with a small anteroposterior motion. It was also found that shifting the upper body mass centroid onwards or rearwards from the normal upright sitting posture reduced the vertical resonant frequency. CONCLUSIONS: These findings may be helpful to better understand vibration response of the human spine, and provide important information to minimize injury and discomfort for these WBV-exposed occupational groups.
In vivo stiffness assessment of patellar and quadriceps tendons by strain ultrasound elastography
Authors: Wadugodapitiya Surangika , Sakamoto Makoto , Suzuki Sayaka , Morise Yusuke , Kobayashi Koichi
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: The patellar and quadriceps tendons are responsible for the extension mechanism of the knee joint and frequently become inflamed during sports. Diagnosis and determination of when an athlete can return to sports following these injuries are usually performed by assessing morphological features and functional outcomes. Nevertheless, mechanical properties are not being assessed. OBJECTIVE: To describe the stiffness characteristics of these two tendons over the range of knee flexion and to test the feasibility of using strain ultrasound elastography (SE). METHODS: SE with an acoustic coupler as the reference was performed for nine healthy males. Relative stiffness measurements were obtained using the strain ratio (SR = target tissue strain/reference strain) by placing the knee in five different flexion angles. Lower SR indicates higher relative stiffness. RESULTS: This study showed reliable measurement with good intra- and inter-rater agreement for SR at 30°. SR of the quadriceps tendon decreases as knee flexion increases, indicating increased relative stiffness. In the patellar tendon, no significant difference was observed between 30° and 60°. Beyond 60°, relative stiffness increased constantly. CONCLUSIONS: SE is a reproducible and feasible tool to monitor relative stiffness of the patellar and quadriceps tendons in routine clinical settings.
Numerical simulation of pulsatile blood flow characteristics in a multi stenosed coronary artery
Authors: Kamangar Sarfaraz
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: Coronary artery disease is reported as one of the most common sources of death all over the world. The presence of stenosis (plaque) in the coronary arteries results in the restriction of blood supply, which leads to myocardial infarction. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of multi stenosis on hemodynamics parameters in idealized coronary artery models with varying degrees of stenosis and interspace distance between the stenosis. METHODS: A finite volume-based software package (Ansys CFX version 17.2) was employed to model the blood flow. The hemodynamic stenosis parameters of blood, such as the pressure, velocity, and wall shear stress were obtained. RESULTS: The computed results showed that the pressure drop is maximum across the 90% area stenosis (AS). The pressure drop is increased as the distance between the proximal and distal stenosis is decreased across the proximal stenosis for the model P70_D70 during the systolic period of the cardiac cycle. A recirculation zone is formed behind the stenosis and is restricted by the occurrence of distal stenosis as the interspacing distance decreases, which could lead to further progression of stenosis in the flow-disturbed area. The wall shear stress was found to increase as the distance between the proximal and distal stenosis is increased across the distal stenosis. The maximum wall shear stress was found at 90% AS. CONCLUSIONS: In the clinical diagnosis, an overestimation of distal stenosis severity could be possible. Furthermore, the low wall shear stress zone in between the proximal and distal stenosis may help atherosclerotic growth or merge adjacent stenosis.
Physiotherapy after ultrasound-guided percutaneous irrigation in rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy
Authors: D’Elia Giovanni , Meoni Barbara , Paci Matteo , Parretti Filippo , Roselli Giuliana , Bartolini Marco , Miele Vittorio
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: Rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy (RCCT) is a very frequent and debilitating disease often treated with Ultrasound-guided percutaneous irrigation (UGPI) followed by physiotherapy. OBJECTIVE: A multicenter observational clinical study was designed to assess the effects of physiotherapy after UGPI on the functional recovery of the shoulders of patients suffering from RCCT. METHOD: One hundred sixty-six patients (mean age 50.7± 7.6 years), 121 women, with painful RCCT were treated with UGPI and assessed at the day of UGPI (T0), and at one (T1), 3 (T2) and 6 (T3) months after treatment by the Constant- Murley Score (CMS), Oxford Shoulder Scale (OSS) and Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Patients were divided into 2 groups, Physiotherapy (PT+) and not Physiotherapy (PT-) according to the performance of the rehabilitation program based on personal decision. RESULTS: A significant improvement at T1 in all outcomes in both groups and between T1 and T3 for NRS during movement and OSS was found, but not for NRS at rest and CMS. There was no difference between groups for all outcome measures. In 27,1% of patients symptoms recurred in an average of 13 ± 8 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that post-UGPI not-standardized physiotherapy might not provide additional clinical benefits in short and medium term. Further studies could assess the effectiveness of physiotherapy performed after three months in patients with recurrence of pain.
Infant–Father Attachment in Infants Born Preterm - A Brief Report
Authors: Kissgen Ruediger , Franke Sebastian , Jorjadze Nino , Roth Bernhard , Kribs Angela
Published: May 2021

This study examines the infant–father attachment in infants born preterm (< 1500 g at birth and/or < 37 weeks gestation) in comparison to full-term infants. The infant–father attachment was assessed using the Strange Situation Procedure at a (corrected) age of 15 months. We found at least half of preterm and full-term infants (50.0% and 56.5% respectively) securely attached to their fathers, and no significant overall difference was observed concerning the distribution of attachment quality comparing the two groups. In light of the fact that preterm infants tend to have numerous neurodevelopmental problems, it is encouraging that significant differences were not found in the distribution of the attachment quality among the groups. Therefore, from the perspective of attachment research, it would be highly beneficial to include fathers in the care of their preterm infants.
Algorithm for secure communication of wireless network based on node energy control
Authors: Zhang Shu , Chen Jianhua
Published: May 2021

This paper analyzes the security algorithm and energy cost of wireless sensor networks in depth, and designs and implements a series of energy-optimized security solutions to ensure the secure establishment and operation of wireless sensor networks. This paper proposes an improved Ad hoc network routing protocol based on energy control. It introduces a low-energy balanced routing algorithm to reduce routing transmission energy consumption, balance network traffic, and improve the energy control performance of network routing protocols. The protocol uses a cross-layer design in this way, the route selection combines the information of the link the remaining energy. A joint function is formed by the transmit power level remaining energy. The joint function of all nodes on the path is used as the basis for route selection and applied to the route discovery stage. At the same time, the protocol introduces edge degree parameters in the establishment process, the idea of minimum energy consumption path and the introduction of energy consumption ratio parameters in the cluster skull backbone network generation process are adopted to realize the energy optimization of the path establishment process. At the same time, the protocol uses the message interaction mechanism in the path establishment process to implement a node security authentication scheme based on secret shared information without adding any routing communication messages, which effectively prevents the passive and active attacks of the attacker on the network. The results of simulation experiments prove that the secure routing protocol achieves the network’s balanced energy consumption while ensuring the secure communication of the network, and solves the energy problem.
Picture fuzzy tensor and its application in multi-attribute decision making
Authors: Jin Jiulin , Zhu Fuyang , You Taijie
Published: May 2021

In this paper, picture fuzzy tensor is proposed, and some related properties are studied. In the meantime, the decomposition theorem of picture fuzzy tensors is established by using picture fuzzy cutting tensors and picture fuzzy t-norm. Moreover, we propose the generalized picture fuzzy weighted interaction aggregation (GPFWIA) operator and the generalized picture fuzzy weighted interaction geometric (GPFWIG) operator. Finally, an application of picture fuzzy tensor in multi-attribute decision making (MADM) problems is presented, that is, a method is suggested to solve picture fuzzy MADM problems with multi-dimensional data characteristics. It is found that our proposed method is feasible and effective by a typical application example.
A new bearing fault diagnosis method using elastic net transfer learning and LSTM
Authors: Song Xudong , Zhu Dajie , Liang Pan , An Lu
Published: May 2021

Although the existing transfer learning method based on deep learning can realize bearing fault diagnosis under variable load working conditions, it is difficult to obtain bearing fault data and the training data of fault diagnosis model is insufficient£¬which leads to the low accuracy and generalization ability of fault diagnosis model, A fault diagnosis method based on improved elastic net transfer learning under variable load working conditions is proposed. The improved elastic net transfer learning is used to suppress the over fitting and improve the training efficiency of the model, and the long short-term memory network is introduced to train the fault diagnosis model, then a small amount of target domain data is used to fine tune the model parameters. Finally, the fault diagnosis model under variable load working conditions based on improved elastic net transfer learning is constructed. Finally, through model experiments and comparison with conventional deep learning fault diagnosis models such as long short-term memory network (LSTM), gated recurrent unit (GRU) and Bi-LSTM, it shows that the proposed method has higher accuracy and better generalization ability, which verifies the effectiveness of the method.
Effective communication data transmission based on community clustering in opportunistic social networks in IoT system
Authors: Zhang Xiangxiang , Chang Liu , Luo Jingwen , Wu Jia
Published: May 2021

With the rise of the Internet of Things, the opportunistic network of portable smart devices has become a new hot spot in academic research in recent years. The mobility of nodes in opportunistic networks makes the communication links between nodes unstable, so data forwarding is an important research content in opportunistic networks. However, the traditional opportunistic network algorithm only considers the transmission of information and does not consider the social relationship between people, resulting in a low transmission rate and high network overhead. Therefore, this paper proposes an efficient data transmission model based on community clustering. According to the user’s social relationship and the release location of the points of interest, the nodes with a high degree of interest relevance are divided into the same community. Weaken the concept of a central point in the community, and users can share information to solve the problem of excessive load on some nodes in the network and sizeable end-to-end delay.
Different Alterations of Agonist and Antagonist Binding to 5-HT1A Receptor in a Rat Model of Parkinson’s Disease and Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia: A MicroPET Study
Authors: Vidal Benjamin , Levigoureux Elise , Chaib Sarah , Bouillot Caroline , Billard Thierry , Newman-Tancredi Adrian , Zimmer Luc
Published: May 2021

Background: The gold-standard treatment for Parkinson’s disease is L-DOPA, which in the long term often leads to levodopa-induced dyskinesia. Serotonergic neurons are partially responsible for this, by converting L-DOPA into dopamine leading to its uncontrolled release as a “false neurotransmitter”. The stimulation of 5-HT1A receptors can reduce involuntary movements but this mechanism is poorly understood. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the functionality of 5-HT1A receptors using positron emission tomography in hemiparkinsonian rats with or without dyskinesia induced by 3-weeks daily treatment with L-DOPA. Imaging sessions were performed “off” L-DOPA. Methods: Each rat underwent a positron emission tomography scan with [18F]F13640, a 5-HT1AR agonist which labels receptors in a high affinity state for agonists, or with [18F]MPPF, a 5-HT1AR antagonist which labels all the receptors. Results: There were decreases of [18F]MPPF binding in hemiparkinsonian rats in cortical areas. In dyskinetic animals, changes were slighter but also found in other regions. In hemiparkinsonian rats, [18F]F13640 uptake was decreased bilaterally in the globus pallidus and thalamus. On the non-lesioned side, binding was increased in the insula, the hippocampus and the amygdala. In dyskinetic animals, [18F]F13640 binding was strongly increased in cortical and limbic areas, especially in the non-lesioned side. Conclusion: These data suggest that agonist and antagonist 5-HT1A receptor-binding sites are differently modified in Parkinson’s disease and levodopa-induced dyskinesia. In particular, these observations suggest a substantial involvement of the functional state of 5-HT1AR in levodopa-induced dyskinesia and emphasize the need to characterize this state using agonist radiotracers in physiological and pathological conditions.
Ionization of NO by superhalogens: DFT and QTAIM approaches
Authors: Srivastava Ambrish Kumar
Published: May 2021

Nitric oxide (NO) is a precursor to NO2, toxic gas, and a major air pollutant. Its ionization has been difficult due to its high ionization energy. We propose here the ionization of NO to NO+ using superhalogens. We study the interaction of NO with superhalogens ( X = LiF2, BeF3 and, BF4) using DFT and QTAIM approaches, which lead to the formation of NO- X complexes. These complexes and their isomers are ionic with positively charged NO, which can be stabilized by two F–N bonds and F–O bonds, respectively. This reveals that NO can be ionized by electron transfer to superhalogens. The size of superhalogens has been noticed to play a crucial in the ionization of NO.
Prevalence of malnutrition and stunting among under-five children: A cross-sectional study family of quality of life in agricultural areas of Indonesia
Authors: Susanto Tantut , Rasni Hanny , Susumaningrum Latifa Aini
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND:

Family quality of life (F-QOL) is necessarily issued for in fulfilling nutrition among under-five children that influenced their growth and development.

OBJECTIVE:

To examine the prevalence of malnutrition and stunting among under-five children and their correlation of F-QOL in agricultural areas of Jember regency, Indonesia

METHOD:

A cross-sectional study through a family based-survey was conducted among 424 family farmers in Jember regency of Indonesia November to December 2019 using a self-administered questionnaire consisted the characteristics of parents and children, quality of family life, family welfare, family awareness, and measurements of children’s age, height, and weight to identify stunting and malnutrition. T-tests of independence and the One Way ANOVA test was used to correlate the categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Furthermore, to determine the correlation among constant variables, we used a Product Moment test.

RESULTS:

Prevalence of wasted, stunted, and malnutrition among under-five children in agricultural areas were 3%, 18.9%, and 5%. There was a significant correlation between ethnic of family and type of family with HAZ ( p = 0.007), respectively. Meanwhile, there was a significant correlation between WAZ and age of children ( r = 0.106; p < 0.05). Furthermore, there were significantly correlation between FQOL and WAZ ( r = 0.260; p < 0.01) and HAZ FQOL ( r = 0.209; p < 0.01), respectively.

CONCLUSION:

Malnutrition and stunting are the biggest problems of nutritional status in Indonesia’s agricultural areas correlated with ethnicity and type of family. Meanwhile, the F-QOL is main correlated with stunting and malnutrition among under-five children in agrarian areas.
Upper limbs cycle ergometer increases muscle strength, trunk control and independence of acute stroke subjects: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: da Rosa Pinheiro Douglas Rafael , Cabeleira Maria Eduarda Parcianello , da Campo Luigi Antonio , Gattino Laís Andrielli Ferreira , de Souza Kellen Sábio , dos Santos Burg Laura , Gamarra Blauth Ariane Haydeé Estrada , Corrêa Philipe Souza , Cechetti Fernanda
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: Studies demonstrate the benefits of upper limbs cycle ergometer (ULCE) in subacute and chronic stroke subjects, but the literature still needs to explore the acute phase of the disease. OBJECTIVE: Verify the effects of ULCE on muscular strength, trunk control and independence of post-stroke subjects in hospital acute phase. METHODS: In this randomized clinical trial participants were allocated into two groups. The control group (CG) performed two daily sessions of conventional physiotherapy, while the intervention group (IG) had one daily session of conventional physiotherapy and one of ULCE. The interventions were carried out for 20 minutes for five days. Both groups were assessed before and after the treatment for upper limbs strength by manual dynamometer, trunk control by Trunk Impairment Scale and level of independence by the Modified Rankin Scale. RESULTS: Twenty subjects with mean ages of 63.5±4.5 were enrolled. There was a significant intra-group difference of palmar grip, shoulder abductors, elbow flexor and wrist extensor strength, trunk control and functional independence only in IG. Inter-group difference for all variables showed superiority in IG. CONCLUSIONS: ULCE is an effective device for increasing muscle strength, trunk control and consequently improving the independence of post-stroke subjects in the acute hospital phase.
What’s going on following acute COVID-19? Clinical characteristics of patients in an out-patient rehabilitation program
Authors: Albu Sergiu , Zozaya Nicolás Rivas , Murillo Narda , García-Molina Alberto , Chacón Cristian Andrés Figueroa , Kumru Hatice
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients present long-lasting physical and neuropsychological impairment, which may require rehabilitation. OBJECTIVES: The current cross-sectional study characterizes post COVID-19 sequelae and persistent symptoms in patients in an outpatient rehabilitation program. METHODS: Thirty patients [16 post-ICU and 14 non-ICU; median age = 54(43.8–62) years; 19 men] presenting sequelae and/or persistent symptoms (>3 months after acute COVID-19) were selected of 41 patients referred for neurorehabilitation. Patients underwent physical, neuropsychological and respiratory evaluation and assessment of impact of fatigue and quality of life. RESULTS: The main reasons for referral to rehabilitation were: fatigue (86.6%), dyspnea (66.7%), subjective cognitive impairment (46.7%) and neurological sequelae (33.3%). Post-ICU patient presented sequelae of critical illness myopathy and polyneuropathy, stroke and encephalopathy and lower forced vital capacity compared to non-ICU patients. Cognitive impairment was found in 63.3% of patients, with a similar profile in both sub-groups. Increased physical fatigue, anxiety and depression and low quality of life were prevalent irrespective of acute COVID-19 severity. CONCLUSIONS: The variability of post COVID-19 physical and neuropsychological impairment requires a complex screening process both in ICU and non-ICU patients. The high impact of persistent symptoms on daily life activities and quality of life, regardless of acute infection severity, indicate need for rehabilitation.
Multidisciplinary intensive outpatient rehabilitation program for patients with moderate-to-advanced Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Cohen Noa , Manor Yael , Green Yitzhak , Tahel Gail , Badichi Inbal , Ben-Or Galit , shtainshlaifer Neta , Shiffer Asaf , Gabso-Rajuan Maayan , Kurtzman Hadar , Shtraifler Liat , Furst Tova , Shtein Shlomi , Shulman Juli , Hyute Anat , Levin Issachar , Inbar Noit , Ariela Hilel , Peled Roni , Gheriani Nurit , Ezra Adi , Messer Stav , Geva Noya , Giladi Nir , Gurevich Tanya
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: Intensive, multi-disciplinary, rehabilitation programs for patients with Parkinson’s disease (PWPs) have shown to be effective. However, most programs are based on in-patient service, which is expensive. OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the feasibility of a multidisciplinary, intensive, outpatient rehabilitation program (MIOR) for moderate to advanced Parkinson’s Disease (H&Y≥2). METHOD: The MIOR program takes place at a community rehabilitation center (‘Ezra Le’Marpe’), 3 times a week, 5 hours, 8 weeks, and includes 20 PWPs in each cycle. The multi-disciplinary team includes physical, occupational, speech and hydro therapists. Additional activities include, social work groups, boxing, dancing and bridge. RESULTS: Data was collected retroactively for the first two years. Data analysis includes 158 patient files who completed the program (mean disease duration 10.1±6 and mean H&Y stage 2.8±0.67). Assessments were performed at the beginning and end of the intervention. Positive results were collected: improvement in number of falls (p < 0.0001), Functional Independence Measure (p < 0.0001), quality of life (p < 0.01), balance (p < 0.0001), upper limb function (p < 0.0001) and paragraph reading vocal intensity (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: MIOR is a feasible program, showing positive results in moderate to advanced PWP’s, improving quality of life, daily function, and motor performance. The current outcomes demonstrate feasibility of MIOR in addition to medical treatment.
The effect of robot-assisted gait training on cortical activation in stroke patients: A functional near-infrared spectroscopy study
Authors: Song Kyeong Joo , Chun Min Ho , Lee Junekyung , Lee Changmin
Published: May 2021

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of the robot–assisted gait training on cortical activation and functional outcomes in stroke patients. METHODS: The patients were randomly assigned: training with Morning Walk® (Morning Walk group; n = 30); conventional physiotherapy (control group; n = 30). Rehabilitation was performed five times a week for 3 weeks. The primary outcome was the cortical activation in the Morning Walk group. The secondary outcomes included gait speed, 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT), FAC, Motricity Index–Lower (MI–Lower), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), Rivermead Mobility Index (RMI), and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). RESULTS: Thirty-six subjects were analyzed, 18 in the Morning Walk group and 18 in the control group. The cortical activation was lower in affected hemisphere than unaffected hemisphere at the beginning of robot rehabilitation. After training, the affected hemisphere achieved a higher increase in cortical activation than the unaffected hemisphere. Consequently, the cortical activation in affected hemisphere was significantly higher than that in unaffected hemisphere (P = 0.036). FAC, MBI, BBS, and RMI scores significantly improved in both groups. The Morning Walk group had significantly greater improvements than the control group in 10MWT (P = 0.017), gait speed (P = 0.043), BBS (P = 0.010), and MI–Lower (P = 0.047) scores. CONCLUSION: Robot-assisted gait training not only improved functional outcomes but also increased cortical activation in stroke patients.
Physiotherapy approach in stroke rehabilitation: Development and testing of a survey of current practice
Authors: Ferrarello Francesco , Capolli Lorenzo , Kader Suchi , Di Bari Mauro
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Physiotherapy is a key discipline in stroke rehabilitation. Physiotherapists sometimes select interventions following personal preference rather than a scientific rational. Data on physiotherapy approaches used in stroke rehabilitation may help policy makers and educators to plan education strategies and implement efficient clinical practices, thus improving rehabilitation effectiveness. We aimed to develop and test a questionnaire designed to survey physiotherapy interventions utilized in stroke rehabilitation. METHODS: We used a multistep questionnaire development method (literature review and synthesis; questionnaire drafting; expert validation; cognitive interviewing). Afterwards the survey proceeded to reliability testing; the outcomes of interest were completion time, estimated comprehensiveness of the lists of interventions, and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Retrieved survey tools, their items, and a taxonomy were useful for the questionnaire development. We interviewed four experts; changes were made to the survey following their suggestions. Thirteen physiotherapists participated in cognitive interviewing and further changes were made. Thirty-five raters participated in the test-retest study. Most participants considered the list of physiotherapy interventions and assistive device exhaustive. Median compilation time and time interval between the two compilations were 7 minutes and 21 days. The observed ICC was 0.844 (95% confidence interval, 0.829/0.857). Our method provided a valid and reliable questionnaire, however further methodological considerations of sampling methods and contact delivery modes are needed. CONCLUSIONS: If adequately implemented, the questionnaire can provide information about interventions utilized in stroke rehabilitation practice by physiotherapists. Data eventually acquired could be useful for planning educational strategies and implementing effective clinical practices.
The use of ehealth to promote physical activity in people living with Parkinson’s disease: A systematic review
Authors: McDermott Adam , Haberlin Ciaran , Moran Jonathan
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: People living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) are less active than healthy individuals. Ehealth is an emerging concept in healthcare which presents opportunities to promote physical activity (PA) in people with PD. The aim of this systematic review was to explore the effectiveness of ehealth in the promotion of PA in people living with PD. METHODS: Suitable articles were searched for using EMBASE, PsychInfo, Web of Science and OVID Medline databases using a combination of keywords and medical subject headings. Articles were included if they described an ehealth intervention designed to promote PA in people living with PD. Two reviewers screened studies for suitability and extracted data. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias 2 tool and the Downs and Black risk of bias checklist. Due to the heterogeneity of studies, a narrative synthesis of study interventions and results was completed rather than a quantitative analysis. RESULTS: 1449 articles were screened. Four studies met the eligibility criteria which included 652 participants. Web and mobile applications were used to design the PA interventions. PA levels were measured using self-reported questionnaires, Fitbits, activity monitors and accelerometers. Three of the studies reported improvements in aspects of PA. However, this was not consistently reported in all study participants. No adverse effects, a high level of enjoyment and a relatively low attrition rate (∼12.5%) were reported. CONCLUSION: Ehealth is a safe and feasible intervention to promote PA in this population. It is unclear whether ehealth is effective at promoting PA in people with PD.
Ammonium hexafluorosilicates as potential anti-caries agents: the problem of cation selection
Authors: Гельмбольдт В. О. , Литвинчук І. В.
Published: May 2021

In the last decade, ammonium hexafluorosilicate (AHFS) and ammonium hexafluorosilicates with biologically active cations (AHBAC), which have certain advantages over traditional fluoride medicinal substances, have been actively studied as anti-caries agents. In particular, an important feature of the action of AHFS is its ability to cause prolonged occlusion of the dentinal tubules with a precipitate of calcium fluoride; when using AHBAС there is a possibility of strengthening the anti-caries activity of the substance due to the pharmacological potential of the cation.

The purpose of the review is to analyze the effects of the cation on the physicochemical properties and biological activity of ammonium hexafluorosilicates as potential anti-caries agents.

Research methods – bibliosemantic, content analysis.

It was drew the attention to the peculiarity of the AHBAC structure: salt structures are formed on the basis of systems of strong interionic H-bonds, mainly of the NH···F type, which have a significant effect on the properties of hexafluorosilicates in the crystalline state and their behavior in solutions. It was demonstrated the non-trivial nature of the change of solubility in water of AHBAC with heterocyclic and aromatic cations, which consists in the decrease of solubility with increasing number of hydrophilic fragments in the structure of cations. Adequate 2D QSPR models for interpretation and virtual screening of AHBAC water solubility have been constructed. Accounting for the effect of H-bonds on the solubility of AHBAC was detailed. It was assumed that the process of hydrolysis of AHBAC in aqueous solutions can be stimulated by elongation of the Si–F anion bonds due to the effects of H-bonds. It is shown that the thermal stability of AHBAC with pyridinium cations symbatically correlates with the number of strong and medium H-bonds in salt structures.

The action of the pharmacological effects of the cation on the biological activity of AHBAC is manifested in the form of an increase in the caries-prophylactic efficacy of AHBAC in comparison with a similar effect of AHFS. Attempts to establish a relationship between the anti-caries activity of AHBAC and a certain pharmacological action of the cation have led to mixed results. This obviously reflects the complex mechanism of the influence of the biological activity of the cation on the caries-prophylactic efficacy of hexafluorosilicates, which is not limited to any one, albeit dominant, type of activity.
Development of technology of biogenic stimulator from grass and marc of Sedum maximum
Authors: Бурбан О. І. , Вишневська Л. І. , Зубченко Т. М.
Published: May 2021

One of the areas of rational use of raw materials, increasing the efficiency of medicinal plant raw materials and reducing the cost of medicines is the technology of its complex processing, which allows to obtain several pharmacologically active substances from one plant, also through the use of plant waste.
Information about the potent biological activity of Sedum maximum and its insufficient study prompted us to conduct experimental studies to obtain substances based on it.
The aim of the work is to study the production of an extract from marc of Sedum maximum grass on the basis of its complex processing and to study its quality indicators.
Materials and methods of the research – biblio semantic, pharmacotherapeutic, physicochemical and statistical research methods were used during the research.
Taking into account a number of technological factors, the parameters of obtaining extract from marc of Sedum maximum grass were determined, the quality of juice and Sedum maximum grass extract was studied: description, pH, dry residue, identification, quantitative content of tannins in terms of pyrogalol. Taking into acount the physicochemical and pharmacotechnological properties of the ingredients, technological schemes for obtaining fresh juice from Sedum maximum grass and extract from its marc have been developed and control parameters of the process of their production have been established.
Taking into account a number of technological factors, the parameters of obtaining the extract from marc of Sedum maximum grass were determined: raw material:extractant ratio – 1:2, extraction temperature – 96–98 °С, extraction duration – 15 min. As a stabilizer used sodium chloride in the amount of 0.7%. The study of the following quality indicators of juice and extract of Sedum maximum grass were done and following results obtained: description, pH – 5.72 ± 0.08 and 4.87 ± 0.04, respectively, dry residue – 2.73 ± 0.07 and 2.54 ± 0,10%, respectively, identification, quantification of the amount of tannins in terms of pyrogalol – 0.094 ± 0.002 and 0.095 ± 0.002%, respectively. The technology was developed and technological schemes of complex processing of Sedum maximum grass were drawn up, according to which juice and aqueous extract from marc were obtained after squeezing the juice.
The introduction of alfalfa varieties and their flavonoids
Authors: Гречана О. В. , Сербін А. Г.
Published: May 2021

Flavonoids have attracted the phytochemical scientists attention since their discovery. Today, with the COVID-19 pandemic, have been information about a favorable therapeutic effect in the treatment dynamics of simultaneously taking treatment protocol drugs with traditional Chinese medicine (dietary supplements of plant origin, separate isolated natural compounds) for more than 85% of Chinese patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.
Have been presence and content of flavonoids as a class of natural compounds genetically related to the development and accumulation of benzo-α-pyrone derivatives in the aerial part of 20 alfalfa varieties from different breeding sites in the South of Ukraine introduction. The studies were carried out in 2015–2019. Accounting for the main traits and phenological observations of plant development were carried out according to the method field and laboratory research. The cultivation has been carried out on the territory of the southern part left bank Ukraine (on the border of the forest steppe and steppe zones).
The raw material for analysis (alfalfa herb) was harvested by cutting off the plants in the flowering stage, dried in the shade, under a canopy, turned over periodically.
Solutions for the flavonoids determination were obtained by boiling a crushed raw materials sample with ethanol (70% v/v).
Chromatographic separation has been performed on a Shimadzu LC-20 Prominence liquid chromatograph (Shimadzu, Japan) with a Phenomenex Luna C18 column (2); column temperature 35 °C; detection wavelength – from 270 nm to 520 nm; the separation mode is gradient with a constant rate flow of the mobile phase 1 ml/min. The injection volume is 0.5 μl.
The compounds presence and content in the alfalfa varieties obtained extracts vary widely enough under the same conditions of sowing, processing, and growing.
The Tajik variety Vakhshskaya 233 is the leader in the content of luteolin-7-glucoside. The American variety WL 508 is the richest in routine (0.50920 mg/g). Cinnamic acid was found in maximum quantities in the Mexican variety Tanhuato (0.24406 mg/g), and this component is completely absent in the Ukrainian variety Sinyukha.
Study of the sedative effect of extract from tissue culture biomass of Rauwolfia serpentina
Authors: Ядловський О. Є. , Демченко А. М. , Конвалюк І. І. , Можилевська Л. П. , Бєда О. А. , Матюшок В. І. , Кунах В. А. , Ярмолюк С. М.
Published: May 2021

Several social, psychological and biological factors could be cause for central nervous system disorders, especially anxiety; the latter could lead to more serious neurological and psychosomatical disorders. Sedative medications of plant origin are widely used practically as an alternative and/or additive to traditional pharmacological treatments of anxiety, hyperexcitation and other neuroses. Thus, the search of new effective sedatives based on plant extracts is an actual and perspective task.

Aim of the present work is to investigate the sedative effect of biomass extract from cell culture of Rauwolfia serpentina K-27 strain.

Sedative action of biomass extract from cell culture of Rauwolfia serpentina high-productive strain was determined by open field method on 24 white mice males (no line). Mice weight was in 18–25 g interval. The behavior was assessed by usual behavioristic acts: motor activity, psychoemotional activity and tentative research reaction. Animals were randomized into 3 groups of 8 individuals each. Rauwolfia serpentina biomass extract at doses of 7.5 mg/kg (group 1) or 15 mg/kg (group 2) was administered orally as an aqueous solution. Animals of the control group (group 3) received a solvent (distilled water).

The sedative effect of extract was discovered in doses of 7.5 and 15 mg/kg, that showed a decrease in horizontal motor activity to 63.31 and 79.76% respectively, vertical activity to 82.05 and 71.79%, grooming duration to 57.28 and 60.78% at experimental days 20 to 28. Tentative research reaction demonstrated the direct dependence of sedation intensity on duration of extract administration. As a result of the conducted researches significant differences in the number of fecal bolus of both experimental and control groups of mice were not revealed. No significant difference between the sedative effect and the dose (7.5 and 15 mg/kg) was observed.

The sedative effect of biomass extract from cell culture of Rauwolfia serpentina K-27 strain was proven. This leads to perspective inclusion of the extract to traditional medicine in prophylaxis and treatment of insomnia and of physical and psychological overexcitation.
Cytokines and their role in immune pathogenesis of allergy
Authors:   State Research Institute of Especially Purified Bioproducts, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation, Simbirtsev A.S.
Published: May 2021

Allergy is characterized by inadequate hyperimmune response to one or several antigens with the properties of allergens. A specific pattern of abnormal synthesis of some cytokines (principal molecular mediators of the initiation, development, and regulation of allergic inflammation) has an important pathogenic role in allergy. In recent years, it is generally accepted that allergic disorders are accounted for by impaired immune regulation resulting from increased imbalanced activation of allergen-specific T helper 2 cell clones. Allergic type of immune response is currently referred to as type 2 immune response which normally provides humoral immunity, anthelmintic protection etc. However, pathological response results in allergy. Studies on immune pathogenesis of allergic disorders have improved our understanding of the role of altered synthesis of some cytokines (key mediators of allergic inflammation). Cytokines involved in the initiation and regulation of allergy are produced by epithelial cells, various subsets of leukocytes, innate lymphoid cells, and allergen-activated T helper cell clones. Analysis of the associations of the changes in immune reactivity and clinical manifestations has established pathogenic heterogeneity and identified asthma phenotypes and endotypes. These findings have provided a basis for more reasonable, successful, and personalized approach to biological anti-cytokine treatment for allergic disorders. KEYWORDS: allergy, cytokines, T helper cell clones, phenotype, asthma, anti-cytokine therapy. FOR CITATION: Simbirtsev A.S. Cytokines and their role in immune pathogenesis of allergy. Russian Medical Inquiry. 2021;5(1):32–37. DOI: 10.32364/2587-6821-2021-5-1-32-37.
Important issues of fungal sensitization: aerobiological aspects
Authors:   Medical University ", Mazokha K.S. ,   Reaviz",   , Samara, Russian Federation, Manzhos M.V. ,   Medical University "Reaviz", Samara, Russian Federation, Khabibulina L.R. ,   Medical University "Reaviz", Samara, Russian Federation, Vlasova N.V. ,   Samara National Research University, Samara, Russian Federation, Kavelenova L.M. ,   Samara National Research University, Samara, Russian Federation
Published: May 2021

Aim: to assess the dynamics of mold sporulation in Samara to predict the risk of allergy development and exacerbation. Patients and Methods: mold spore samples were collected from April 1 to September 30 in 2016–2019 using trap impactor and placed on slides coated with Vaseline-wax mixture. Mold spores were calculated and referred to various taxa. Allergy risks were predicted. Thresholds for evoking asthma are estimated to be 100 spores/m3 for Alternaria and 3,000 spores/m3 for Cladosporium. Results: in Samara, average mold vegetative period was 164 days. Cladosporium and Alternaria spores were identified. Their spores were estimated as 34.4% of total atmospheric spores in Samara. Cladosporium spores estimated as 15.3% of total fungal spores were identified during the whole observation period. Maximum concentration was less than 960 spores/m3 having been within the average range. Alternaria spores were estimated as 19.1%. The proportion of days exceeding the threshold value of 100 spores/m3 was 6% to 81% having been the highest in July-September. Conclusion: prerequisites for the development of fungal sensitization were revealed. Regional specificity of sporulation in Samara was illustrated. Major mold taxa were identified. Allergy risks in Alternaria and Cladosporium sensitization were assessed. The highest total average monthly amount of Alternaria spores was during Artemisia and Ambrosia pollination season. This could be challenging for the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from allergic symptom exacerbations during this period. Our findings will improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of allergic disorders in Samara. KEYWORDS: aerobiological monitoring, allergy, mold spores, Cladosporium, Alternaria, fungal sensitization. FOR CITATION: Mazokha K.S., Manzhos M.V., Khabibulina L.R. et al. Important issues of fungal sensitization: aerobiological aspects. Russian Medical Inquiry. 2021;5(1):4–9. DOI: 10.32364/2587-6821-2021-5-1-4-9.
Entrepreneurial intention of engineering students: the role of motivations and barriers
Authors: Bui Bich Huy Hai , Pham Minh Tien
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study is to explore perceptions of entrepreneurial motivations and barriers and to assess their influence on the entrepreneurial intention of engineering students. Using data of 350 respondents who are students at HCMC University of Technology, VNU-HCM, the study identifies the key motives and barriers towards entrepreneurship. The data are then subjected to statistical regression in order to identify causal relationships between the motivations, barriers, and entrepreneurial intention. The results indicate that creativity, independence, and economic motivation have a positive impact on entrepreneurial intention and that the most important motivator for the entrepreneurial intention of engineering students is creativity. On the contrary, lack of knowledge is the only barrier (an internal barrier) that impedes the students' intention of entrepreneurship. These results imply that the students' entrepreneurial intention is more affected by internal factors (for both motivations and barriers) than external factors. In terms of the relative power of the effects of motives and barriers on students' entrepreneurial intention, the results suggest that the impact of motivations is generally more powerful than that of barriers. The findings have important implications for educators and policymakers.
ASSESSMENT OF MANDIBULAR 3RD MOLAR APICES TO THE INFERIOR DENTAL CANAL USING CONVENTIONAL RADIOGRAPHY AND CBCT
Authors: Anand Nehru , Veni M. Ashwin Chandra , Chndrasekar CL. Krithika , Ashokan A. Kannan , Aniyan Yasoda
Published: May 2021

Conventional radiographs provide only a 2 dimensional view of complicated three dimensional structures.  The proximity, angulations, location of impacted teeth, related to the IAN can be adequately determined using conventional 2-D periodical and panoramic radiographs. Computed tomography necessitates the administration of a high dose radiation, especially when the slice width is shortened to increased cost are the negative aspects of computed tomography compared with conventional imaging.

Cone beam computed tomographies are becoming more readily available for use in maxilla facial applications. CBCT provides better image quality of teeth and their surrounding structures, compared with conventional CT and offers high spatial resolution. CBCT seems to be more accurate data about inferior alveolar canal. Hence the present study was undertaken to assess and select roots of third molar with close proximity to inferior dental canal in panoramic radiograph having radiographic signs of darkening of root, disruption of canal cortex and canal deviation and to evaluate the same roots with CBCT using trans axial and coronal sections which is angulated parallel to long axis to tooth, axial and coronal sections for proximity of inferior dental canal with the apices of third molar root.

Keywords: CBCT, IAN