bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinctive characteristics of granulation tissue in laparotomy wounds with underlying oncological processes
Authors: Morar Igor Kalynovych ,   Department of Oncology and Radiology, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine,   * Corresponding Author: Igor Kalynovych Morar, Department of Oncology and Radiology, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine. E-mail: igor.morar82@gmail.com, Ivashchuk Oleksandr Ivanovich ,   Department of Oncology and Radiology, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine, Rohovyi Yurii Yevhenovych ,   Department of Pathological Physiology, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine, Bodiaka Volodymyr Yuriyovych ,   Department of Oncology and Radiology, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine, Antoniv Aliona Andriivna ,   Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Pharmacology and Occupational Diseases, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effects of malignant neoplasms on the morphological characteristics of laparotomy wound granulation tissue in the muscular-aponeurotic layer. The study involved a sample of 34 deceased individuals who had undergone abdominal organ surgery. Biopsy samples were taken from the muscular-aponeurotic layer of the anterior abdominal wall and subjected to histological examination, including staining with hematoxylin and eosin and methylene blue/Chromotrope 2B using N.Z. Slinchenko’s method. Descriptive methods and morphometry were used to evaluate pathomorphological changes. The results suggest that malignant neoplasms significantly impede and decelerate the maturation of laparotomy wound granulation tissue. Surgeries performed at the late stages of abdominal organ malignant neoplasms result in an uneven and slow maturation of the tissue, characterized by a higher prevalence of lymphoid cells, increased blood vessel volume, reduced optical density of stained collagen fibers, and pronounced chromotropophilia of collagen fibers. These distinct features should be considered to prevent postoperative eventration, a complication that is more likely to occur in this patient group. Clinicians should be aware of the possible consequences of malignant neoplasms on laparotomy wound granulation tissue, which may require additional measures to prevent postoperative complications in these patients.
Brain imaging and morphological plasticity in glioblastoma: a literature review
Authors: Idu Andreea-Anamaria ,   Department of Neurosurgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, Créteil, France,   * Corresponding Author: Andreea-Anamaria Idu, Department of Neurosurgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, Créteil, France. E-mail: anamaria.idu@gmail.com, Bogaciu Nicolae-Stefan ,   Department of Neurosurgery, Annecy-Genevois Hospital, Annecy, France, Ciurea Alexandru Vlad ,   Department of Neurosurgery, Sanador Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   Clinical Neurosciences Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
Published: May 2023

This article provides a comprehensive review of the role of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in characterizing neural plasticity in glioblastoma patients. Glioblastoma, the most common primary brain tumor, has a rapid growth rate and infiltrative nature that leads to the disorganization of the normal brain network. Neuroplasticity, still not fully understood, is the foundation for the development of brain functions during the growth and recovery of certain brain functions after a brain lesion such as a tumor, trauma, or vascular event. Functional MRI has the capacity to identify the regions that activate at rest or when performing a task. It can determine the extent to which these regions, responsible for a specific function, are impacted by a tumor and eventually after surgical excision. Likewise, it can help evaluate to which extent activation changes when recovery of function occurs. In this article, we aimed to understand the significance of fMRI in the management of glioblastoma by analyzing representative articles from the literature.
Impact of smoking intensities on sleep quality in young Saudi males: a comparative study
Authors: Al-Mshari Arwa ,   Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Hofuf, Saudi Arabia, AlSheikh Mona Hmoud ,   Physiology Department, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia, Latif Rabia ,   Physiology Department, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia, Mumtaz Sadaf ,   Physiology Department, Dental College, HITEC-Institute of Medical Sciences, Taxila, Pakistan, Albaker Waleed ,   Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal, Dammam, Saudi Arabi, Al-Hariri Mohammed ,   Physiology Department, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia,   * Corresponding Author: Mohammed Al-Hariri, Physiology Department, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia. E-mail: mtalhariri@iau.edu.sa
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to compare various components of sleep quality between cigarette smokers of various intensities and non-smokers in young Saudi males. In total, 73 healthy male participants (31 smokers and 42 non-smokers) aged 17–33 years were recruited over three months (August 2018 to October 2018). All participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire. The smokers were then divided into three groups, according to their Smoking Index* (SI) (Cigarettes Per Day (CPD) X Years of Tobacco Use), into mild, moderate, and heavy smokers. The PSQI was significantly higher in heavy smokers than in mild smokers (P=0.022) or non-smokers (p=0.013). A significant positive correlation was observed between the PSQI and the smoking index (p=0.005). Sleep duration was significantly longer in heavy smokers compared to mild (p=0.032) and nonsmokers (p=0.047). Sleep disturbance was significantly higher in moderate than nonsmokers (p=0.035) and moderate than mild smokers (p=0.028). Sleep latency was significantly longer in heavy than nonsmokers (p=0.011). Daytime dysfunction was significantly higher in moderate than mild smokers (p=0.041). Habitual sleep efficiency was significantly greater in moderate than in either mild (p=0.013) or nonsmokers (p=0.021). The use of sleep medication was significantly higher in moderate than nonsmokers (p=0.041). The findings suggest that poorer sleep quality is positively associated with smoking intensity among young Saudi males. Considering the importance of sleep quality for well-being and health, these results suggest exploring how improving sleep quality could inform future smoking cessation interventions.
Main factors determining the use of free MS-TRAM and DIEP flaps and comparing the results of breast reconstruction
Authors: Smolanka Ivan Ivanovich ,   National Cancer Institute, Ministry of Health, Kyiv, Ukraine, Galych Sergiy Petrovich ,   National Institute of Surgery and Transplantology, Kyiv, Ukraine, Movchan Oleksii Volodimirovich ,   National Cancer Institute, Ministry of Health, Kyiv, Ukraine, Bagmut Irina Yuriivna ,   Kharkiv Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Sheremet Michael Ivanovich ,   Department of Surgery No.1, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine,   * Corresponding Author: Michael Ivanovich Sheremet, Department of Surgery No.1, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine. E-mail: mihayl71@gmail.com, Kolisnyk Igor Leonidovich ,   Kharkiv Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Bagmut Oleksandr Vasyliovych ,   Faculty of Computer Sciences, Karazin Kharkiv National University, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Lyashenko Andriy Oleksandrovich ,   National Cancer Institute, Ministry of Health, Kyiv, Ukraine, Dosenko Irina Viktorivna ,   National Cancer Institute, Ministry of Health, Kyiv, Ukraine, Ivankova Oksana Mykolaivna ,   National Cancer Institute, Ministry of Health, Kyiv, Ukraine, Maksymyuk Vitaliy Vasilyevich ,   Department of Surgery No.1, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine, Tarabanchuk Volodimir Volodimirovich ,   Department of Surgery No.1, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to compare the results of free MS-TRAM and DIEP-flap based on the volume of the transplant and the unique characteristics of blood flow in the tissues. The study included 83 patients, 42 in the MS-TRAM-flap reconstruction group and 41 in the DIEP-flap breast reconstruction group. In the MS-TRAM-flap group, 35 patients received delayed reconstruction, and 7 received one-stage breast reconstruction, including one case of bilateral transplantation. In the DIEP-flap group, 5 patients received one-stage reconstruction, and 36 received delayed reconstruction. Complications associated with the flap tissue were observed in 7 (16.67%) in the MS-TRAM-flap group and 8 (19.51%) cases in the DIEP-flap group. The total level of fat necrosis in MS-TRAM-flap was 7.14% (p=0.033), and in DIEP-flap, it was 9.75% (p=0.039) (2 patients had a substantial amount of fat necrosis, while 2 patients had a modest amount of focal fat necrosis). The number and diameter of perforators (including veins), as well as the transplant volume, are the primary determinants of whether to use a DIEP- or MS-TRAM-flap. DIEP-flap is preferred if there are 1–2 large artery perforators (≥1 mm) and tissue volume of 700–800 grams, while MS-TRAM-flap is used when the tissue volume is significant (>2/3 of standard TRAM-flap).
Nutritional status of children and adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Baghdad: a case-control study
Authors: Hussein Sawsan Ali ,   Pediatric Department, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq,   * Corresponding Author: Sawsan Ali Hussein, Pediatric Department, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq. E-mail: Sawsanali1989@uomustansiriyah.edu.iq, Ibrahim Basma Adel ,   Pediatric Department, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq, Abdullah Wasnaa Hadi ,   Pediatric Department, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: May 2023

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major life-long non-communicable illness correlated with obesity and chronic undernutrition. It is particularly important to monitor the nutritional status of children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), as they are still growing and may be affected by the disease or associated conditions like celiac disease. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional status of children and adolescents with T1DM in Baghdad city and identify possible risk factors for undernutrition. A single-center, case-control study was conducted in Central Child's Teaching Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq, over 9 months from November 2021 to July 2022. The study included patients with T1DM and healthy controls. Detailed history, clinical examination, and anthropometric measures were performed for all participants in the study. The mean age of the sample was 10.0 ±3.73 years and 8.68±3.1 years in diabetic patients and controls, respectively. Anthropometric measures in patients with type 1 diabetes were significantly lower than those of controls (P<0.001). All patients within the undernourished group were from large-size families compared with 75.76% of the normally nourished group, with a significant difference. The mean age of disease onset in the normal nourished group was 6.61 ± 2.78 years which was significantly earlier than that of the undernourished group (8.83 ± 2.89). Weight-for-age and BMI z-score had a significant negative correlation with HbA1c (r=-0.312, p=0.004, and r=-0.295, p=0.006, respectively). Patients with T1DM had significantly lower anthropometric measures than the normal population. Older children, female gender, large family size, and disease duration are independent predictors of undernutrition in T1DM. BMI and weight-for-age have a significant negative correlation with metabolic control of diabetes represented by HbA1c.
Assessing setup errors and shifting margins for planning target volume in head, neck, and breast cancer
Authors: Alabedi Hayder ,   Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Baghdad University, Baghdad, Iraq,   * Corresponding Author: Hayder Alabedi, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Baghdad University, Baghdad, Iraq. E-mail: haydar.h@comed.uobaghdad.edu.iq
Published: May 2023

Accurately calculating setup errors is crucial in ensuring quality assurance for patients undergoing radiation therapy treatment. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the systematic, random, and planning target volume (PTV) margin errors for patients with head and neck cancer (n=48) and breast cancer (n=50). The treatment setup was performed using electronic portal imaging (EPIDs) and irradiated using Elekta linac. The errors were calculated using the van Herk formula. The systematic error for the head and neck was 0.89, 0.43, and 1.49 mm on the x, y, and z-axis, respectively, and 0.39, 0.74, 0.38 for the breast cases. The random error was 0.82, 0.68, 0.94 mm for the head and neck and 0.66, 0.72, 0.79 mm for the breast. The PTV margin shifting error for the head and neck were 2.79, 1.55, and 4.38 mm, while it was 1.43, 2.35, and 1.50 mm for the breast. The setup errors varied according to the tumor location. The study highlights the potential benefits of using EPIDs for reducing uncertainties in setup verification procedures.
A single session of education for a patient with negative beliefs about low back pain: A case report of 16-month follow-up
Authors: Alshami Ali Muteb ,   Department of Physical Therapy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia,   * Corresponding Author: Ali Muteb Alshami, Department of Physical Therapy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia. E-mail: alshami@iau.edu.sa
Published: May 2023

The effectiveness of education in patients with low back pain (LBP) remains controversial and inconclusive. This case report describes the long-term effects of a single educational session on the rehabilitation of a patient with chronic LBP (CLBP). A 57-year-old woman presented with the main complaint of LBP and inability to prostrate for several years. The intervention consisted of a single session of patient-specific education that targeted negative cognitive beliefs. This education included instructions about the obtained findings, spinal anatomy, patient reassurance, the relationship between imaging findings and patient symptoms, proposed treatment, and a home exercise program. The patient was able to independently complete the prostration task immediately after the session without pain. This improvement was maintained for at least 16 months, as demonstrated by the Numeric Pain Rate Scale, Patient-Specific Functional Scale, Fear Avoidance Belief Questionnaire, and the Keele STarT Back Screening Tool. In conclusion, a single session of patient-specific education was effective, both immediately and over the long term, in addressing pain and function in patients with CLBP.
The outcomes of a healing environment and clustering nursing care on premature infants' vital signs, pain, and sleeping
Authors:   Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt,   * Corresponding Author: Abdelaziz Hendy, Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt. E-mail: Abdelaziz.hendy@nursing.asu.edu.eg, Hendy Abdelaziz , Alsharkawy Sabah Saad ,   Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt,   Faculty of Nursing, October University, Giza, Egypt, El-Nagger Nahed Saied ,   Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
Published: May 2023

Our study aimed to assess the effects of creating a healing environment and clustering nursing care on premature infants' vital signs, pain, and sleeping. The study had an experimental research design for the control and study group, each with 53 premature infants. We collected the data through the Vital Signs Sheet, Premature Infant Pain Profile, and Neonatal behavioral state. We used T-tests and chi-square tests to assess the differences between groups. There was a highly statistically significant difference between the study and control groups concerning respiration (p-value<0.01) and heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and O2 saturation (p-value<0.05). 90.6% of participants in the study group had a mild total premature infant pain profile, while 37.7% of the control group had a moderate total premature infant pain profile score. Applying a healing environment and clustering nursing care significantly improved respiration, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and systolic blood pressure. Furthermore, it increased sleep time and decreased wake state and pain score.
Factors associated with child abuse among children and adolescents in a Peruvian public hospital
Authors: Quille-Mamani Gabriela Miriam ,   Faculty of Health Sciences, Jorge Basadre Grohmann National University, Tacna, Peru, Quispe-Prieto Silvia Cristina ,   Professional School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jorge Basadre Grohmann National University, Tacna, Peru, Navarro Enaidy Reynosa ,   Professional School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, César Vallejo University, Trujillo, Peru,   * Corresponding Author: Enaidy Reynosa Navarro, Professional School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, César Vallejo University, Trujillo, Peru. E-mail: ereynosa@ucv.edu.pe
Published: May 2023

The study's objective was to investigate the factors associated with child and adolescent abuse in the MAMIS program at Hipólito Unanue Hospital in the Tacna-Peru region during 2019–2021. The study used a quantitative, retrospective, cross-sectional, and correlational approach to analyze 174 cases of child abuse. The study found that the majority of child abuse cases involved children between the ages of 12–17 (57.4%), with a secondary level of education (51.15%), females (56.9%), and not consuming alcohol or drugs (88.5%). Prevalent household characteristics included single-parent families (48.28%), parents aged 30–59 (58.5%), divorced (37.3%), with secondary level of education (68.9%), independent occupation (64.9%), no history of parental violence (91.3%), no addiction or substance abuse issues (95.4%), and no psychiatric disorders (95.4%). The most common types of abuse were psychological (93.68%), followed by neglect or abandonment (38.51%), physical (37.93%), and sexual (27.0%). The study determined a significant relationship (95% confidence level) between socio-demographic characteristics, such as age, sex, and substance use, and specific types of child abuse.
Stress as a possible cause of a high incidence of hypertension and diabetes and a low incidence of asthma in the Iraqi population
Authors: Al-Isawi Zahraa ,   Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq,   * Corresponding Author: Zahraa Al-Isawi, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq. E-mail: zahraaj.kadhim@uokufa.edu.iq, Kadhim Salim ,   College of Pharmacy, University of Alkafeel, Kufa, Iraq,   Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK, Yahya Yahya ,   College of Pharmacy, University of Alkafeel, Kufa, Iraq, Hadi Najah Rayish ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq
Published: May 2023

Hypertension and diabetes represent a significant public health burden worldwide and are significant risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Nevertheless, Iraqi people, in particular, experience higher levels of stress due to political instability and economic issues. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of common morbidities among Iraqi patients and the possible relationship with exposure to stress. The data was collected from patients (n=500) who attended the health center in Najaf, Iraq, between 25 August 2021 and 30 September 2021. The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and asthma among Iraqi people was determined along with patients’ awareness and control of these conditions. In addition, patients were asked about their experiences with stress, including the type of stress they encountered. Our findings revealed that nearly 47% of patients involved in this study had hypertension, with the highest percentage in patients over 40. Moreover, the incidence of diabetes was 12%, with the highest incidence in the age group of 40-59. The incidence of asthma was lower in all groups. Data analysis concerning exposure to stress demonstrated that about 60% of patients suffer from a stressful life. We found that the incidence of hypertension and diabetes was high while the incidence of asthma was low. This study also reveals that a considerable number of people were unaware of their hypertension and diabetes. Exposure to daily life stress among Iraqi people may play a role in the observed incidence of these morbidities.
Prevalence and risk factors of patients with chronic bronchitis among Iraqi adults
Authors: Abbas Ali Hussein ,   Community Health Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Al-Muthanna, Al-Muthanna, Iraq, Mustafa Mohammed Abdulkareem ,   Adult Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Al-Kufa, Kufa, Iraq,   * Corresponding Author: Mohammed Abdulkareem Mustafa, Adult Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Al-Kufa, Kufa, Iraq. E-mail: mohammeda.aljanabi@uokufa.edu.iq, Abozaid Mohammed ,   Department of Chest Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with chronic bronchitis among patients seeking medical attention for respiratory conditions in Al-Najaf Al-Ashraf city, Iraq. The study employed a case-control design and recruited 134 participants using convenient sampling. Data was collected using a questionnaire consisting of four parts which included demographic characteristics, individual factors, family history, and seasonal, environmental, and nutritional factors. The majority of participants were males aged between 21 and 35 years, with 71.8% of the study group residing in rural areas and 66.3% of the control group living in urban areas. We found that asthma was the most prevalent associated disease among chronic bronchitis patients, with 64.1% reporting it. The risk factors associated with chronic bronchitis were residency, smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, respiratory sensitivity, dust sensitivity, spring sensitivity, hay fever, asthma, pulmonary obstruction, pneumonia, pertussis, and family history. The study highlights the need for smoking cessation, physical fitness, and healthy eating habits to prevent chronic bronchitis. The findings of this study are important for healthcare professionals in Iraq to design and implement effective prevention and management strategies for chronic bronchitis.
Semaglutide in renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in mice
Authors: Tiba Al-Tameemi ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq, Qassam Heider ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq, Hadi Najah Rayish ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq,   * Corresponding Author: Najah Rayish Hadi, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq. E-mail: drnajahhadi@yahoo.com
Published: May 2023

Ischemia and reperfusion injury (I/R) is a serious condition leading to organ failure, characterized by poor blood supply followed by rapid resuscitation of blood flow and reoxygenation. Renal failure caused by renal ischemia has high mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to explore the potential role of Semaglutide as a novel and effective therapeutic strategy for acute renal failure. Additionally, we aimed to assess the possible protective effect of Semaglutide on kidney I/R injury in mice through modulation of the inflammatory and oxidative pathways via phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/adenosine triphosphate (PI3K/AKT) activation. We employed twenty-eight albino mice to induce the I/R injury model by clamping the renal artery for 30 min followed by a period of reperfusion for 2 hours. The control group was exposed to I/R injury, while the Semaglutide-treated group was pretreated with the drug 12 hours before induction of ischemia at a dose of 100 nmol/L/kg via the intraperitoneal route (i.p). In addition, the DMSO-treated group was subjected to similar conditions to the Semaglutide-treated group. At the end of the experiments, kidneys and blood samples were collected for investigation. Semaglutide could act as a protective agent against acute kidney injury by reducing inflammatory molecules such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and its cognate receptor, TNF-α R, interleukine-6 (IL-6). Furthermore, Semaglutide reduced F8 isoprostane levels, increased PI3K and AKT levels in renal tissues, and mitigated renal damage. Semaglutide had renoprotective effects via modulation of the inflammatory response and oxidative pathway by targeting the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
The influence of psychological characteristics on managers efficiency within medical institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lefterov Vasyl ,   Department of Psychology, National University Odesa Law Academy, Odesa, Ukraine, Artyomenko Volodymyr ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Odesa National Medical University, Odesa, Ukraine,   * Corresponding Author: Volodymyr Artyomenko, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Odesa National Medical University, Odesa, Ukraine. E-mail: vartyomenko2017@gmail.com, Gutsol Vasylyna ,   Communal Non-Profit Enterprise Center of Primary Health Care No. 18, Odesa, Ukraine, Harkavets Serhii ,   Department of Psychology and Sociology, Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University, Severodonetsk, Ukraine, Volchenko Larysa ,   Department of Psychology and Sociology, Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University, Severodonetsk, Ukraine
Published: May 2023

This article examines the theoretical and practical aspects of the activity of medical managers, the social and psychological climate within teams, and interpersonal relations. The goal of the study was to investigate the interpersonal interaction styles and intragroup relations between team members and managers, as well as to determine the impact of managers' psycho-emotional characteristics on their effectiveness during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 158 medical workers participated in the study, which was conducted in 2021 using a self-developed questionnaire. The expert evaluation method and standardized psychodiagnostic methods were used. We identified negative factors that affected the management of medical institutions during the pandemic, such as deficiencies in material and economic support, low levels of managerial competence, violation of collegiality and fairness principles during duties and rewards distribution, and deficiencies in manager recruitment. The most psychologically challenging aspects of managing or working in a medical facility during a pandemic include excessive emotional tension and stress, high levels of responsibility, lack of management experience and/or competence in crisis conditions, physical overload, work outside of working hours, and lack of adequate rest. A mini-personality profile of the effective manager of medical institutions in pandemic conditions was developed. One of the psychological regularities of a manager's performance identified is the presence of self-regulative skills in negative emotional states, pronounced activity and energy, mobility, and a strong desire for action.
Investigating the renoprotective effect of C21 in male mice with sepsis via modulation of p-AKT/PI3K expression
Authors: Jabber Huda ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Iraq, Mohammed Bassim ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Iraq, Hadi Najah Rayish ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq,   * Corresponding Author: Najah Rayish Hadi, Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq. E-mail: drnajahhadi@yahoo.com
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to investigate if C21 could prevent acute renal injury induced by sepsis by regulating the expression of p-AKT/PI3K. Five equal groups of 25 adult male Swiss-albino mice were randomly divided (n=5): sham (laparotomy without CLP), CLP, vehicle (equivalent amount of DMSO one hour before CLP), and C21 (0.03 mg/kg, one hour before CLP). ELISA was used to measure serum inflammatory mediators, and the expression of PI3K and P-AKT was determined using PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC), respectively. TNF, TNF receptor, F8-isoprostane, urea, creatinine, and IL-6 blood levels were considerably lower in the CLP group (p<0.05) compared to the sham group, whereas the C21 treated group had significantly (p<0.05) greater levels of these inflammatory mediators. The IHC analysis revealed that P-AKT expression was significantly lower (p<0.05) in the CLP group compared to the sham group, while the C21 pretreatment group had significantly higher levels of P-AKT expression compared to the CLP group (p<0.05). The PI3K expression in the CLP group was significantly lower than in the sham group (p<0.05), according to PCR results, whereas the PI3K expression in the C21 pretreatment group was significantly greater than in the CLP group (p<0.05). This study showed that C21 might reduce levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-, IL-6, and TNF receptor, by modulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathways, which can, in turn, reduce renal dysfunction during CLP-induced sepsis in male mice.
Determining the relationship between the knowledge on self-management and levels of asthma control among adult asthmatic patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ghozali Muhammad Thesa ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Management, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia,   * Corresponding Author: Muhammad Thesa Ghozali, Department of Pharmaceutical Management, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. E-mail: ghozali@umy.ac.id, Urrohmah Ulfah Aulia ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Management, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Published: May 2023

The primary aim of asthma management is to improve the patient's quality of life and keep the symptoms under control, therefore improving the patient's daily activities. Asthmatic patients who know and understand how to control their symptoms could be able to prevent further attacks. Many previous studies have shown the role of patient knowledge regarding asthma self-management in improving asthma control. It was why this study mainly aimed to determine the relationship between patient knowledge of self-management and asthma control levels among adult asthmatic patients in the rural community. The design used analytical observation with a cross-sectional approach to collect data. It involved 100 asthmatic outpatients from two private hospitals owned by the Muhammadiyah Society in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from February to August 2022. Most participants had a low level of knowledge (66%;n=66), followed by a good level of knowledge (34%;n=34). Regarding the levels of asthma control, it could be confirmed that 61% (n=61) of study participants had uncontrolled asthma, followed by partially controlled (35%;n=35), and controlled (4%;n=4). In terms of the relationship between two variables (patient knowledge of self-management and asthma control levels), the results of Pearson Chi-Square showed a p-value of 0.001, highlighting a relationship between the patient's knowledge of self-management and levels of asthma control. This study concluded that there was a strong relationship between knowledge regarding asthma self-management and asthma control levels.
In Situ Propellant Alternatives for a Lunar Ascent/Descent Vehicle
Authors: Nikitaeva Daria , Dale Thomas L.
Published: May 2023

Recently, NASA has pushed for returning humans to the moon sustainably with in situ resource utilization as the central focus. The moon has an abundance of water that is proposed to be electrolyzed into hydrogen and oxygen to be used as propellant. Other volatiles such as ammonia, carbon dioxide, and methane are also present. A mission architecture for a lunar ascent/descent vehicle (LADV) from the Polytechnic University of Turin and nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) engine models from the University of Alabama in Huntsville were used to compare in-situ-derived propellants for a LADV. This study considered a LADV originating from the lunar surface, delivering a payload in the lunar distant retrograde orbit, and returning to the lunar surface for retanking. This research analyzed the impacts on this mission of using hydrogen NTP, water/ammonia NTP, liquid-oxygen augmented nuclear thermal rocket, and Aeon 1 methane–oxygen engines using the selected architecture and tools. The results were compared to the reference hydrogen–oxygen RL10 engine. The propulsion system comparison analysis showed that combustion engines will offer better overall performance than NTP-based engines due to a 50% decrease in propellant volume, a 20% decrease in dry mass, and a lower propellant mass than the water and ammonia NTP systems. Both the hydrogen–oxygen and methane–oxygen propulsion systems will have similar propellant masses when compared to other systems. This is due to the order of magnitude higher mass of the NTP engines, with the highest mass contribution coming from the reactor. However, both water and ammonia alternative propellant NTP engines can still be viable candidates for the usage of these minimally processed propellants to satisfy this mission.
Numerical Simulations of Fuel Shape Change in Paraffin–Oxygen Hybrid Rocket Engines
Authors: Migliorino Mario Tindaro , Gubernari Giorgio , Bianchi Daniele , Nasuti Francesco , Cardillo Daniele , Battista Francesco
Published: May 2023

Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations with submodels of turbulence, chemistry, fluid–surface interaction, and radiation are performed in this work to rebuild the internal ballistics of an experimentally tested hybrid rocket engine with paraffin and gaseous oxygen as propellants. Firstly, the effects of the prechamber and postchamber cavities at the initial, average, and final diameter of a reference burn are assessed to be negligible. Then, numerical simulations modeling the fuel shape change in space and time are compared to simulations performed at uniform port radius. The latter provide reasonable regression rate, pressure, and final grain profile predictions with reduced computational cost. On the other hand, the more computationally expensive fuel shape change simulations improve the model prediction capabilities providing a more accurate comparison with experimental data. The fuel shape change approach is finally applied with success to simulations of a throttled burn.
Aerodynamic Optimization and Fuel Burn Evaluation of a Transonic Strut-Braced-Wing Single-Aisle Aircraft
Authors: Chau Timothy , Zingg David W.
Published: May 2023

This paper presents an assessment of the potential fuel burn savings offered by the transonic strut-braced-wing configuration within the single-aisle class of aircraft relative to a modern conventional tube-and-wing aircraft through aerodynamic shape optimization based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations. A representative strut-braced-wing aircraft is first developed through conceptual multidisciplinary design optimization based on the Airbus A320neo, with current technology levels assumed. A concept for the conventional tube-and-wing configuration is also developed to represent the Airbus A320neo as a performance baseline. Single-point aerodynamic shape optimization is then performed on wing–body–tail models of each aircraft to address aerodynamic design challenges and to provide more accurate performance estimates. Results indicate that shock formation can be mitigated from the wing–strut junction of the strut-braced wing at Mach 0.78 and a relatively high design lift coefficient of 0.750, providing an 8.2% reduction in block fuel over a 1000 n mile nominal mission when compared to the conventional tube-and-wing aircraft. Multipoint aerodynamic shape optimization is then performed to build toward a more credible estimate of fuel burn performance, with results showing a reduction in the fuel burn savings to 7.8% at the nominal design point relative to the conventional tube-and-wing aircraft to maintain a 7.6–8.0% improvement over the envelope of operating conditions, which includes design points at even higher Mach numbers and lift coefficients. These results demonstrate the viability of the transonic strut-braced-wing configuration for transport aircraft within the single-aisle class and its potential for reducing commercial fleet fuel burn.
HLPW-4/GMGW-3: High-Order Discretization Technology Focus Group Workshop Summary
Authors: Galbraith Marshall C. , Karman Steve L.
Published: May 2023

This paper summarizes the High-Order Technical Focus Group (HO-TFG) submissions for the joint 4th AIAA High Lift Prediction (HLPW-4) and 3rd Geometry and Mesh Generation Workshop (GMGW-3). The goal of the workshop was to assess the state-of-the-art in mesh generation and computational fluid dynamics software. The Common Research Model High-Lift (CRM-HL) variant served as the primary focus of the workshop, and a two-dimensional airfoil section from the CRM-HL was used as a verification test case. The HO-TFG was tasked with generating high-order curved meshes for both geometries, and computing high-order solutions using both Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes and scale-resolving formulations. While limited by computational resources, the final results demonstrate the potential of higher-order methods to increase solution accuracy with a lower degree-of-freedom count relative to second-order discretizations.
Study of Nonlinear Stiffness and Damping Effects on Shimmy and Flutter
Authors: Padmanabhan Madhusudan A. , Dowell Earl H.
Published: May 2023

This work deals with the fundamentally similar dynamic behavior of two apparently different aircraft systems, namely, landing gears and all-movable control surfaces. Both systems typically contain stiffness and damping nonlinearities, leading to shimmy/flutter limit cycle oscillations (LCOs). In a series of earlier papers the authors have developed highly efficient computational methods, based on describing functions, to construct LCO responses for dynamic systems with concentrated nonlinearities in stiffness or damping. These methods are extended in the present paper, and the focus is on the physical insights that can be obtained by using them for systems with multiple nonlinearities. The model parameters are varied to obtain an array of interesting results. For example, each branch of the landing gear response is attributable to a particular nonlinearity. Based on this, a possible reason is advanced for the occurrence of shimmy in the F/A-18 aircraft. On the other hand, the entire flutter response of the all-movable surface can be viewed as being shaped by one nonlinearity and modified by the other. Finally, the well-known Wright Air Development Center wind tunnel flutter test results for an all-movable horizontal tail with freeplay are reinterpreted and explained in the light of the present findings.
Reduced-Order Static L2-Gain Control of Rotorcraft with Guaranteed Rotor–Fuselage Stability
Authors: Yang Shu
Published: May 2023

A reduced-order control design method for rotorcraft is proposed in this work. Explicit constraints on the closed-loop fuselage–rotor stability are considered in the fuselage dynamics-based control design, aiming for the [Formula: see text]-gain performance for the fuselage dynamics under pole placement constraints and the guaranteed fuselage–rotor stability. Sufficient conditions for the control design problem are presented, formulated as a feasibility problem based on bilinear matrix inequalities. Such an NP-hard problem is approximated using convex relaxation techniques and the cone complementary linearization method, leading to an iterative control design algorithm. An altitude–velocity vector tracking concept is also proposed in this work, integrated with the proposed control design method to design rotorcraft trajectory controllers. Performance of the resultant rotorcraft trajectory controllers is examined via numerical simulations against representative maneuvers from the ADS-33E specification.
Overview of Autoignition and Flame Propagation Properties for Ammonia Combustion
Authors: Cai Tao , Zhao Dan
Published: May 2023

With the increasingly stringent [Formula: see text] emission, next-generation propulsion systems with chemical reaction combustion involved need to operate with carbon-free fuels, such as ammonia or hydrogen. During the past few decades, intensive research has been conducted on ammonia combustion, which is growingly regarded as a potential alternative fuel to be applied in gas turbines for power generation and aviation propulsion systems to reduce the [Formula: see text] footprint and increase carbon-free fuel flexibility. Two major technical challenges with applying such fuel in practical engines are poor ignition and flame propagation behaviors. The present work provides a technical review by presenting state-of-the-art advances in ammonia combustion science and technology by clarifying the fundamental combustion properties and the corresponding enhancement strategies. Experimental techniques applied to measuring the ignition delay time are first introduced and overviewed, along with passive and active means to accelerate them. Then, the laminar burning velocities of ammonia-based dual-fuel combustion at varying operating conditions and their temperature and pressure dependences are described. This is followed by the spin-off applications of ammonia-fueled detonation engines. Finally, we show the prospects and challenges of ammonia combustion and suggest critical topics in aerospace and power generation applications that could benefit from further investigations.
Dynamic Performance of Hygrothermal Mechanically Preloaded Variable-Stiffness Composite Fairing Structures
Authors: Sciascia Giuseppe , Oliveri Vincenzo , Weaver Paul M.
Published: May 2023

Since the introduction of variable-stiffness composites, the design philosophy for high-performance lightweight composite structures has broadened greatly. Indeed, variable-stiffness composites have been shown to increase buckling performance and dynamic stability, as well as to modify the dynamic response by tailoring stiffness distributions. Thus, efficient linear analysis tools play a significant role in the early design of variable-stiffness structures, allowing designers to identify many viable solutions when considering preloaded dynamically excited aerospace components. To address this need, a Ritz-based method for eigenfrequency and dynamic instability analysis of hygrothermal and mechanically prestressed variable-stiffness laminated doubly curved payload fairing structures is presented. Flexibility in modeling and design is achieved using Sanders–Koiter-based shell kinematics that allow general orthogonal surfaces to be modeled without further assumptions on the shallowness or on the thinness of the structure. The efficiency of the proposed Ritz method is enabled by using Legendre orthogonal polynomials as displacement trial functions. By comparing the present approach with finite element solutions for variable-curvature, variable-angle tow fairing shell geometries, excellent accuracy is shown, accompanied by an order-of-magnitude reduction in variables by the present method. Original solutions are presented comparing the dynamic behavior of prestressed constant and variable-stiffness composite shell structures, showcasing the viability of the variable-stiffness concept to significantly increase the structural performance of critical doubly curved variable-curvature components such as launch vehicle payload fairings.
Hearing impairment in patients with alopecia areata
Authors: Shakoei Safoura , Mohammadnia Elahe , Saedi Babak , Ghandi Narges , Khamisabadi Saeedeh
Published: May 2023

Background

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that damages hair follicles and follicular melanocytes can be involved in the autoimmune process. Therefore, similar to vitiligo, there may be a relationship between sensorineural hearing loss and alopecia areata.

Aims/objectives

This study aimed to investigate potential hearing impairments in patients with alopecia areata.

Methods

A total of 42 subjects with alopecia areata and 42 healthy individuals enrolled in this cross-sectional study. The hearing was evaluated by vestibular evoked myogenic potential, otoacoustic emission and pure tone audiometry tests in the patients and control subjects.

Results

A normal otoacoustic emission was reported in 59.5% and 100% of subjects with alopecia areata and the controls, respectively (P = 0.02). Higher speech recognition thresholds (P = 0.02) and speech discrimination scores were reported more in subjects with alopecia areata than in controls (P < 0.001); however, the most comfortable level of speech was not significantly different between the groups (P = 0.06). The greatest increase in the hearing threshold was recorded at a frequency of 8000 Hz, while at frequencies of 500 and 1000 Hz, the patients and controls did not significantly differ (P > 0.05). About 6 (14.3%) and 2 (4.8%) of patients with unilateral and bilateral involvement, respectively, demonstrated no vestibular evoked myogenic potential response in the alopecia areata group. The patients and controls did not significantly differ in terms of amplitudes of the vestibular evoked myogenic potential test (P = 0.097).

Limitation

Small sample size and qualitative measurement of otoacoustic emission were limitations of our study.

Conclusion

Hearing loss was more common in alopecia areata patients than in healthy individuals. Follicular melanocytes may be involved in the alopecia areata inflammatory process, and destroying melanocytes may impact hearing function in the inner ear. However, there was no significant relationship between the duration and severity of alopecia areata and hearing loss.