bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the agricultural sector of Uzbekistan and prospects for trade cooperation with Russia
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Institution «Institute of economics» of RAS, Moscow, Russia, Siparo Konstantin A.
Published: December 2021

The article highlights the development of agricultural sector of the economy of Uzbekistan, relations with partner countries, in particular, with Russia. The flow of investments in this area, support and interest from both the state itself and external partners is researched. The influence of Uzbek agricultural products on the Russian markets has been studied with details on the nomenclature. The indicators of 2020, the impact of the pandemic on the agricultural sector are considered, its strengths and weaknesses are identified. Based on the data obtained, conclusions are drawn about the prospects for further development of the agro-food republic.
INVESTIGATION OF THE DEPENDENCE OF CHANGES IN THE VOLUME OF INDUSTRIAL STOCKS ON THE AVERAGE CAPACITY OF PEAT DEPOSITS Strikha
Authors:   Polissya National University, Strikha Volodymyr , Zhoukov Serhii ,   Polissya National University, Svitelskiy Mykola ,   Polissya National University, Yaremenko Olga ,   Polissya National University, Krynytska Maria ,   Polissya National University
Published: December 2021

Purpose. One of the aspects of energy saving and increasing the level of the state energy security is the replacement of expensive imported energy by cheaper domestic ones. The surface location of peat deposits and the relatively low cost of organizing and conducting mining operations make this mineral a potentially efficient resource and energy saving tool. Currently, in the development of peat deposits, a mandatory element of the source data for the project is the availability of detailed exploration materials, which requires significant material costs and time, so it is proposed to develop a simplified method of calculating industrial reserves, based on studying the dependence of the industrial reserves size on the depth of the deposit. The use of the method proposed by the authors allows to develop multivariate solutions, both individually and in different deposits. The positive aspect of the methodology is also the minimum amount of initial data: balance sheets and average capacity of the deposit. Methodology. To obtain the dependences of the balance stocks utilization ratio on the average depth of the deposit, the tightness of the connection was previously estimated by the pairwise correlation coefficient (r). Analytical expressions of these dependences were detected using a regression analysis apparatus. 21 peat deposits were selected for the study, which are located in 10 regions of Ukraine. Results. Balance reserves and reserves within development; deposit losses taking into account different options; industrial stocks and utilization of balance stocks were determined during analyzing the types of losses in deposits. To determine the balance reserves of the deposit, the deposit was divided into layers and the area of the deposit was calculated for each of them. Based on the performed calculations, a study of the dependence of the utilization ratio of balance reserves on the average depth of the deposit was conducted. It has been found that balance stocks utilization ratios are closely related to the average depth of the deposit. Thus, for the maximum utilization ratio of balance stocks r = +0.854, and for the minimum r = + 0.932. Analytical expressions of these dependences were detected using a regression analysis apparatus. Practical significance. According to the results of research, the part of each type of losses was determined. The received technique allows: to select raw material base for the enterprise, to minimize quantity of source data (are accepted from available sources), to receive multivariate decisions, simplifies calculations of volumes of industrial stocks. Key words: peat use, peat resources, balance stocks, industrial stocks, technological indicators, stock utilization ratio.
PECULIARITIES OF MODERN GAS MIGRATION IN THE COAL COAL-ROCK MASSIFS OF THE DONETS BASIN
Authors:   cientific Center for Mining Geology, Geoecology and Infrastructure Development of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Vergelska Nataliia , Skopychenko Ihor
Published: December 2021

Purpose. Investigate the change in indicators of qualitative and quantitative gas composition in coal massifs,when the state of the coal rock massif changes, including in gas-dynamic situations. Methodology. The paper uses traditional structural-geological methods, generalization methods and developed and patented by the authors of the method for determining the gas state of coal massifs on the basis of gas chromatography. Results. The change of the residual gas component in coal massifs is investigated.The stages of change of qualitative and quantitative gas composition in coal massifs at gas – dynamic phenomena are established.The ways of gas migration in coal massifs and technogenic reservoirs are determined.The concept of rate gas saturation of a coal massif, which is controlled by the action of discontinuous tectonics, is introduced. Scientific novelty.For the first time, the conditions for the formation of modern gas-saturated zones in coal massifs due to gas migration and rate gas saturation have been determined.The influence of discontinuous tectonic disturbances on the migration and accumulation of gases in coal massifs has been established. Practical significance. The influence of gas migration on the formation of gas-saturated zones in coal-bearing massifs and man-caused reservoirs of the spent space of operating mines is established,which is important to ensure the safe operation of coal mining enterprises and degassing of coal massifs. Key words: gas-bearing, gas migration, tectonic disturbances, coal massif, man-caused collectors, Donets basin.
INFLUENCE OF HEAVY METALS ON ANTIOXIDANT SYSTEM AND BIOCHEMICAL INDEXES IN RATS
Authors:   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kalinin I. V. , Tomchuk V. A. ,   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Gryshchenko V. A. ,   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine
Published: December 2021

The study was undertaken to examine the effect of heavy metals on antioxidant system and biochemical indexes in the organism of rats. The influence of heavy metals on indexes The influence of heavy metals on the indicators of the antioxidant system (activity of the antioxidant system enzymes – glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase) and the processes of lipid peroxidation (content of hydroperoxides and products of thiobarbituric acid) was determined. It is established, that the antioxidant system functions more intensively in blood and liver of rats under the action of heavy metals. The study of enzyme activity showed the activation of the latter under conditions of heavy metal intoxication in 1.5–2.0 times (depending on heavy metal) compared with the control. We found that blood levels of total and direct bilirubin, creatinine, and urea increased in intoxicated rats from all experimental groups compared with intact animals. However, a decrease in the content of albumin, total protein, cholesterol, and triglycerides was also found in all experimental groups, in comparison with intact rats. Under the action of heavy metals, the activity of total α-amylase, lactate dehydrogenase, and glucose concentration increases in blood of rats. According to the results of studies in intoxicated animals compared with the intact group, there was a change in the cation-anion pool, in particular, a tendency to decrease the content of sodium and inorganic phosphorus and increase chlorides, magnesium, calcium, and potassium.
Serial verbs in modern standard Arabic
Authors: Hameed Alotaibi Yasir
Published: December 2021

This paper aims to discuss serial verb constructions in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). It argues against the claim that this structure does not exist in MSA. We examined parallel structures in this paper: being verbs and what is called albadal ‘apposition’ in the traditional grammar of the Arabic language. This paper argues that the first structure should be analyzed as an auxiliary structure that contains two clauses, while the second structure should be analyzed as a serial verb structure as it denotes, among others, a complex situation, shares the same subject, and contains one clause. Finally, this paper provides a brief syntactic analysis for being verbs and serial verbs in MSA within the lexical functional grammar (LFG) framework, showing the differences between the two structures.
Implementation of User Centered Design Method on e-Catalog Information System of UMKM in South Aceh Agency
Authors: Fardiansyah  , Pulungan Anhar , Sitorus Ridha , Rizky Muharratul Mina
Published: December 2021

The utilization of digital technology produces efficiency, effectiveness and accountability that can support the UMKM (Usaha Mikro, Kecil, Menengah) so that the Regional Government (PEMDA) in this case the Koperasi and UKM Office of South Aceh agency can contribute in providing services and education for UMKM which are expected to be able to improve productivity and profit of UMKM in their region. To using of the UCD (User Centered Design) model involves the user in the development process. This study focuses on the implementation of the use of the UCD development model after going through the evaluation process of the user context, analysis and design of solutions based on recommendations from users.  Based on the evaluation results, it is known that the implementation of UCD method to the system have a good response from users.
Tibetan policy of the Mongols (1205–1235)
Authors: Drobyshev Yuliy I.
Published: December 2021

The article discusses the relationships of the Mongols with Tibet in the short period between the first Mongol campaign against the Tangut state of Western Xia (Xi Xia) in 1205 and the Great Kurultai of 1235 to resolve the issue of the intentions of the two first Mongol khans to subjugate Tibet. Tibetan and late Mongolian historiographies are full of reports about an invasion of Tibet by Genghis Khan himself and about his successfully implemented plans to annex this country, as well as about his adoption of Buddhism; however, this information is legendary. An analysis of the whole set of sources at our disposal as well as the experts’ opinions reveals the following. Most likely, during the lifetime of Genghis Khan and Ogedei, the Mongols had no plans to seize Tibet, and all reports concerning Mongol military operations in this country refer only to the border areas in Eastern Tibet, through which nomads encompassed the hostile states of Jin and later – Southern Song from the right flank. The results fully confirm the conclusions already made by some scholars: the vast, desolate, remote from trade routes and poor lands of Tibet were not of primary interest to the Mongols. Despite the decision taken in 1235 to conquer most of the countries known to the Mongols, the first reconnaissance recorded in the literature took place only in 1240, and the real inclusion of the “Land of Snows” into the Mongol Empire dates back even later.
On the Printed Fragment in Classical Mongolian Script from the Collection of IOM, RAS
Authors: Sidorovich Sergey V.
Published: December 2021

The Institute of Oriental Manuscripts of the Russian Academy of Sciences possesses a xylographed fragment in classical Mongolian script with a handwritten text on the reverse side (call mark G 110 recto), which was obtained in 1909 during P. K. Kozlov’s expedition in Khara-Khoto. The printed text in classical Mongolian script with several interlinear glosses in Chinese and a page footer (of the transcription of the Chinese name of the chapter and the page number) was read by the Soviet Orientalist N. Ts. Munkuyev more than 50 years ago. Munkuyev dated it by the XIV century based on the paleographic peculiarities. Moreover, based on the official history Yuan shi, he supposed that the text might be a Mongolian translation of the legislative code Da Yuan tong-zhi and suggested two possible versions of original Chinese name of the chapter, out of which an incorrect one was unfortunately chosen. Since Da Yuan tong-zhi was not preserved in full and the major part of the written monument including the chapters of interest were lost, it was impossible to find the text in scope, and the mistake in the reconstruction of the chapter name also could not be detected. However, in 2002 in South Korea a part of Zhi-zheng tiao-ge code was found, which was promulgated in 1346 and was intended to replace the outdated Da Yuan tong-zhi. In one of his previous articles, the author has shown that both codes were built according to a general pattern elaborated as far back as the Tang epoch (618–907). This enabled reconstruction of the name of the chapter mentioned in the fragment. Fortunately, the surviving part of the Zhi-zheng tiao-ge code contains the required chapters, and the Chinese glosses in the fragment allowed us to find the original Chinese text, which turned out to be a document dated 1303 and, according to the date, was evidently included in both codes. The article also contains the Chinese text of the document and its annotated translation.
The study of Yezidis by Vladimir Gordlevsky
Authors: Mossaki Nodar Z.
Published: December 2021

In this article, the author analyzes the scholarly heritage of Vladimir Gordlevsky (1876–1956), a Member of the Russian Academy, preserved in the Archive of the Russian Academy of Sciences. This heritage reveals Gordlevsky’s interest in the Yezidis, the fact, which was previously not known. Some notes and remarks by V. A. Gordlevsky regarding the Yezidis from the Khnys of the Erzurum region, refer to the mistakes and in accuracies found in the work of the famous Irish geographer and traveller H. F. B. Lynch (1862–1913) wrote about the alleged absence of the Yezidi population in Khnys. In addition, the article analyzes the extensive bibliographic material about the Yezidis, prepared by V. A. Gordlevsky and small notes that confirm his interest in this ethnoreligious group as well as the preparatory material, which was collected by him for an article about the Yezidis. Various records from V. A. Gordlevsky’s archive reveal the breadth of his scholarly erudition, his ability to create a fundamental bibliographic background, even on very poorly researched topics. They also are clear evidence of his deepest knowledge about even the smallest details, which pertain to the history and culture of the Ottoman Empire. These data are also valuable for the scholars of Yezidi studies since they mention some now little-known sources.
Some aspects of the authorship of the treatise “Xiao Jing”
Authors: Blazhkina Anastasia Yu.
Published: December 2021

The article deals with the authorship of the Confucian treatise Xiao Jing (“The Classic of Filial Piety”). Xiao Jing is one of the classical treatises that constitutes a part of the Confucian corpus Shisan Jing (“The Thirteen Classics”). This confirms the importance and high significance of this text for the traditional philosophical thought of China. The earliest mention of the title “Xiao Jing” was recorded in the work from the 3rd century BC, Lu shi chun qiu (“Spring and Autumn of Mr Liu”), which indicates the terminus ante quem non for the treatise Xiao Jing. According to some Russian scholars, the treatise Xiao Jing was compiled in the IV-II centuries BC. The Chinese scholarship acknowledges eight main versions of authorship, and therefore dating of Xiao Jing. The author stresses the importance to establish the authorship of the Xiao Jing treatise since this can be a piece of additional information for a comprehensive understanding of the philosophical heritage of the Confucian tradition of this text. After presenting an outline of the main versions of authorship of the Xiao Jing treatise, the author states that this issue can hardly be solved unambiguously. Therefore, this article can be considered as a preliminary essay for further research. The appendix offers a complete Russian translation of the Xiao Jing made by the author of the present article.
Emerging Christianity: what do we know and how?
Authors: Desnitsky Andrey S.
Published: December 2021

This article, the second in a series, briefly describes the main problems connected with the reconstruction of emerging Christianity. First of all, it is the scarcity of historical sources. They speak almost exclusively about religious beliefs and leave aside all other aspects of life. Then, it is the clearly expressed interest of both ancient authors and modern researchers to present a “rightful” and ideal picture. As a result, emerges an idealized image of such a Christian community that a modern scholar would like to belong to. A possible methodological solution to this problem can be found in the model of religious studies suggested by the modern German scholar Gerd Theissen. Concerning the practical method, one can suggest an analysis of the polemics as reflected in the early Christian texts, mainly epistles.
Importance of tranexamic acid in pediatric monosutural craniosynostosis surgery
Authors: Eustache Gabriel , Nardi Nicolas , Rousseau Chloé , Aouaissia Sandra , Aillet Sylvie , Delahaye Larralde Severine , Wodey Eric , Riffaud Laurent
Published: December 2021

OBJECTIVE

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic drug that has achieved significant reduction in perioperative blood loss and the quantity of blood transfused in many pediatric surgical procedures, without morbidity. Despite the accumulation of evidence regarding its effectiveness in craniosynostosis repair surgery, TXA is not unanimously employed by pediatric neurosurgery teams. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of the routine use of TXA in a homogeneous population of children who underwent open surgery for monosutural craniosynostosis.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed 3 cohorts of patients that were subdivided from 2 cohorts surrounding the initiation of TXA (group 1, TXA− [2008–2011] and group 2, TXA+ [2011–2013]) and a third cohort of more recent patients (group 3, TXA+ [2016–2017]). TXA was administered using the same protocol comprising a loading dose of 10 mg/kg over 15 minutes after induction of general anesthesia followed by a 10 mg/kg per hour infusion until skin closure. Patients in all 3 groups underwent similar standardized procedures for scaphocephaly, trigonocephaly, and unicoronal craniosynostosis by the same pediatric neurosurgeon.

RESULTS

Overall, 102 infants were included in the study: 32 infants in group 1, 36 in group 2, and 34 in group 3. Significant reductions in transfusion of packed erythrocytes (PE) and fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) were observed between the TXA− and TXA+ time periods. The median volume of PE transfusion was reduced by > 50% with the use of TXA (42.8 mL/kg in the TXA− group vs 20.0 in the TXA+ groups, p < 0.0001). Reduction in PE transfusion was 100% postoperatively in the TXA+ groups (20.0 mL/kg in the TXA− group vs 0.0 in the TXA+ groups, p < 0.0001). The median volume of FFP transfusion was reduced by 100% with the use of TXA (12.8 mL/kg in the TXA− group vs 0.0 in the TXA+ groups, p < 0.0001). All children in group 1 received a transfusion, whereas 3 children (8%) and 7 children (20%) in groups 2 and 3, respectively, did not. Significant reductions in postoperative drain output were also noted between the TXA− and TXA+ time periods. The total hospital length of stay was significantly lower in the TXA+ groups (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of TXA reduced blood loss and the need for transfusions but also decreased the hospital length of stay and, thus, minimized overall medical care costs. Intraoperative administration of TXA in craniosynostosis repair surgery should be routinely used in all centers that practice these procedures.
A taxonomy for brainstem cavernous malformations: subtypes of midbrain lesions
Authors: Catapano Joshua S. , Rumalla Kavelin , Srinivasan Visish M. , Lawrence Peter M. , Larson Keil Kristen , Lawton Michael T.
Published: December 2021

OBJECTIVE

Anatomical taxonomy is a practical tool that has successfully guided clinical decision-making for patients with brain arteriovenous malformations. Brainstem cavernous malformations (BSCMs) are similarly complex lesions that are difficult to access and highly variable in size, shape, and position. The authors propose a novel taxonomy for midbrain cavernous malformations based on clinical presentation (syndromes) and anatomical location (identified with MRI).

METHODS

The taxonomy system was developed and applied to an extensive 2-surgeon experience over a 30-year period (1990–2019). Of 551 patients with appropriate data who underwent microsurgical resection of BSCMs, 151 (27.4%) had midbrain lesions. These lesions were further subtyped on the basis of predominant surface presentation identified on preoperative MRI. Five distinct subtypes of midbrain BSCMs were defined: interpeduncular (7 lesions [4.6%]), peduncular (37 [24.5%]), tegmental (73 [48.3%]), quadrigeminal (27 [17.9%]), and periaqueductal (7 [4.6%]). Neurological outcomes were assessed using modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores. A postoperative score ≤ 2 was defined as a favorable outcome; a score > 2 was defined as a poor outcome. Clinical and surgical characteristics and neurological outcomes were compared among subtypes.

RESULTS

Each midbrain BSCM subtype was associated with a recognizable constellation of neurological symptoms. Patients with interpeduncular lesions commonly presented with ipsilateral oculomotor nerve palsy and contralateral cerebellar ataxia or dyscoordination. Peduncular lesions were associated with contralateral hemiparesis and ipsilateral oculomotor nerve palsy. Patients with tegmental lesions were the most likely to present with contralateral sensory deficits, whereas those with quadrigeminal lesions commonly presented with the features of Parinaud syndrome. Periaqueductal lesions were the most likely to cause obstructive hydrocephalus. A single surgical approach was preferred (> 90% of cases) for each midbrain subtype: interpeduncular (transsylvian-interpeduncular approach [7/7 lesions]), peduncular (transsylvian-transpeduncular [24/37]), tegmental (lateral supracerebellar-infratentorial [73/73]), quadrigeminal (midline or paramedian supracerebellar-infratentorial [27/27]), and periaqueductal (transcallosal-transchoroidal fissure [6/7]). Favorable outcomes (mRS score ≤ 2) were observed in most patients (110/136 [80.9%]) with follow-up data. No significant differences in outcomes were observed between subtypes (p = 0.92).

CONCLUSIONS

The study confirmed the authors’ hypothesis that taxonomy for midbrain BSCMs can meaningfully guide the selection of surgical approach and resection strategy. The proposed taxonomy can increase diagnostic acumen at the patient bedside, help identify optimal surgical approaches, enhance the consistency of clinical communications and publications, and improve patient outcomes.
Comparison of frailty metrics and the Charlson Comorbidity Index for predicting adverse outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for spine metastases
Authors: Hersh Andrew M. , Pennington Zach , Hung Bethany , Patel Jaimin , Goldsborough Earl , Schilling Andrew , Feghali James , Antar Albert , Srivastava Siddhartha , Botros David , Elsamadicy Aladine A. , Lo Sheng-Fu Larry , Sciubba Daniel M.
Published: December 2021

OBJECTIVE

Frailty—the state defined by decreased physiological reserve and increased vulnerability to physiological stress—is exceedingly common in oncology patients. Given the palliative nature of spine metastasis surgery, it is imperative that patients be healthy enough to tolerate the physical insult of surgery. In the present study, the authors compared the association of two frailty metrics and the widely used Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) with postoperative morbidity in spine metastasis patients.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of patients who underwent operations for spinal metastases at a comprehensive cancer center were identified. Data on patient demographic characteristics, disease state, medical comorbidities, operative details, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Frailty was measured with the modified 5-item frailty index (mFI-5) and metastatic spinal tumor frailty index (MSTFI). Outcomes of interest were length of stay (LOS) greater than the 75th percentile of the cohort, nonroutine discharge, and the occurrence of ≥ 1 postoperative complication.

RESULTS

In total, 322 patients were included (mean age 59.5 ± 12 years; 56.9% of patients were male). The mean ± SD LOS was 11.2 ± 9.9 days, 44.5% of patients had nonroutine discharge, and 24.0% experienced ≥ 1 postoperative complication. On multivariable analysis, increased frailty on mFI-5 and MSTFI was independently predictive of all three outcomes: prolonged LOS (OR 1.67 per point, 95% CI 1.06–2.63, p = 0.03; and OR 1.63 per point, 95% CI 1.29–2.05, p < 0.01, respectively), nonroutine discharge (OR 2.65 per point, 95% CI 1.74–4.04, p < 0.01; and OR 1.69 per point, 95% CI 1.36–2.11, p < 0.01), and ≥ 1 complication (OR 1.95 per point, 95% CI 1.23–3.09, p = 0.01; and OR 1.41 per point, 95% CI 1.12–1.77, p < 0.01). CCI was found to be independently predictive of only the occurrence of ≥ 1 postoperative complication (OR 1.45 per point, 95% CI 1.22–1.72, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty measured with either mFI-5 or MSTFI scores was a more robust independent predictor of adverse postoperative outcomes than the more widely used CCI. Both mFI-5 and MSTFI were significantly associated with prolonged LOS, higher complication rates, and nonroutine discharge. Further investigation in a prospective multicenter cohort is merited.
Staged radiosurgery alone versus postoperative cavity radiosurgery for patients with midsize-to-large brain metastases: a propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Yomo Shoji , Yako Takehiro , Kitazawa Kazuo , Oguchi Kazuhiro
Published: December 2021

OBJECTIVE

The authors investigated and compared the results of staged stereotactic radiosurgery (S-SRS) alone and those of postoperative cavity SRS (C-SRS) for patients with midsize-to-large brain metastases (BMs).

METHODS

Patients with BMs who had undergone S-SRS or C-SRS during the period from 2010 to 2020 were retrospectively identified from an institutional database. The two treatment groups were generated by propensity score matching (PSM; match ratio 2:1) based on 13 potential prognostic covariates: sex, age, Karnofsky Performance Status, type of primary cancer, timing of BM diagnosis, extracranial disease status, driver mutations, molecular target therapy, neurological symptoms, number of BMs, location of BMs treated with S-SRS or C-SRS, maximal tumor or cavity volume, and cumulative intracranial tumor volume. Patient survival and control of intracranial disease were compared between the S-SRS and C-SRS groups using time-dependent analyses taking into account competing events.

RESULTS

In total, 110 patients in the S-SRS group and 62 in the C-SRS group were selected by PSM. In the S-SRS group, the median interval between the two radiosurgical sessions was 21 days, and the median total prescription dose was 28 Gy at 50%. In the C-SRS group, the median time from surgery to C-SRS was 16 days, and the median prescription dose delivered to the surgical cavity was 15 Gy at 55%. At the time point of data set fixation, 129 patients had died, 43 were alive, and none had been lost to follow-up. The 2-year survival rates for the S-SRS and C-SRS groups after the initial intervention were 33% and 37% and the median survival times were 14.8 and 17.5 months, respectively (p = 0.33). The 2-year cumulative neurological mortality rates were 11% and 9%, respectively (p = 0.65). The 2-year local failure rates were 32% and 12% (p = 0.036) and the 2-year distant recurrence rates were 55% and 58%, respectively (p = 0.53). The 2-year leptomeningeal disease development rates were 9% and 25%, respectively (p = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study revealed no significant difference in overall survival or cumulative neurological mortality between the S-SRS and C-SRS groups. The local control failure rate was significantly higher in the S-SRS group, whereas the incidence of leptomeningeal disease development was significantly higher in the C-SRS group.
Neuropalliative care for the neurosurgeon: a primer
Authors: Shlobin Nathan A. , Garcia Roxanna M. , Bernstein Mark
Published: December 2021

Many neurosurgical conditions are incurable, leading to disability or severe symptoms, poor quality of life, and distress for patients and families. The field of neuropalliative care (NPC) addresses the palliative care (PC) needs of individuals living with neurological conditions. Neurosurgeons play an important role within multidisciplinary NPC teams because of their understanding of the natural history of and treatment strategies for neurosurgical conditions, longitudinal patient-physician relationships, and responsibility for neurosurgical emergencies. Moreover, patients with neurosurgical conditions have unique PC needs given the trajectories of neurosurgical diseases, the realities of prognostication, psychosocial factors, communication strategies, and human behavior. PC improves outcomes among neurosurgical patients. Despite the importance of NPC, neurosurgeons often lack formal training in PC skills, which include identifying patients who require PC, assessing a patient’s understanding and preferences regarding illness, educating patients, building trust, managing symptoms, addressing family and caregiver needs, discussing end-of-life care, and recognizing when to refer patients to specialists. The future of NPC involves increasing awareness of the approach’s importance, delineating priorities for neurosurgeons with regard to NPC, increasing emphasis on PC skills during training and practice, expanding research efforts, and adjusting reimbursement structures to incentivize the provision of NPC by neurosurgeons.
Is L5/S1 interbody fusion necessary in long-segment surgery for adult degenerative scoliosis? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cavagnaro María José , Orenday-Barraza José Manuel , Khan Naushaba , Kisana Haroon , Avila Mauricio J. , Dowell Aaron , Strouse Isabel Martha , Ravinsky Robert , Baaj Ali A.
Published: December 2021

OBJECTIVE

There is no consensus regarding the best surgical strategy at the lumbosacral junction (LSJ) in long constructs for adult spinal deformity (ASD). The use of interbody fusion (IF) has been advocated to increase fusion rates, with additional pelvic fixation (PF) typically recommended. The actual benefit of IF even when extending to the pelvis, however, has not been vigorously analyzed. The goal of this work was to better understand the role of IF, specifically with respect to arthrodesis, when extending long constructs to the ilium.

METHODS

A systematic review of the PubMed and Cochrane databases was performed to identify the relevant studies in English, addressing the management of LSJ in long constructs (defined as ≥ 5 levels) in ASD. The search terms used were as follows: “Lumbosacral Junction,” “Long Constructs,” “Long Fusion to the Sacrum,” “Sacropelvic Fixation,” “Interbody Fusion,” and “Iliac Screw.” The authors excluded technical notes, case reports, literature reviews, and cadaveric studies; pediatric populations; pathologies different from ASD; studies not using conventional techniques; and studies focused only on alignment of different levels.

RESULTS

The PRISMA protocol was used. The authors found 12 retrospective clinical studies with a total of 1216 patients who were sorted into 3 different categories: group 1, using PF or not (n = 6); group 2, using PF with or without IF (n = 5); and group 3, from 1 study comparing anterior lumbar interbody fusion versus transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion. Five studies in group 1 and 4 in group 2 had pseudarthrosis rate as primary outcome and were selected for a quantitative analysis. Forest plots were used to display the risk ratio, and funnel plots were used to look at the risk of publication bias. The summary risk ratios were 0.36 (0.23–0.57, p < 0.001) and 1.03 (0.54–1.96, p = 0.94) for the PF and IF, respectively; there is a protective effect of overall pseudarthrosis for using PF in long constructs for ASD surgeries, but not for using IF.

CONCLUSIONS

The long-held contention that L5/S1 IF is always advantageous in long-construct deformity surgery is not supported by the current literature. Based on the findings from this systematic review and meta-analysis, PF with or without additional L5/S1 interbody grafting demonstrates similar overall construct pseudarthrosis rates. The added risk and costs associated with IF, therefore, should be more closely considered on a case-by-case basis.
News Content: from Event to Viewer
Authors: Tsimokh Nataliia , Yakym Bohdana
Published: December 2021

The purpose of the research is to analyze the way of news information from the event to the screen, to identify the extent to which the use of new technologies affects the audience, to determine the role of a journalist, an editor, a video editor and a sound engineer in this chain, to prove the importance of verifying information. The research methodology is based on a comprehensive theoretical analysis and descriptive-analytical approach, which combines methods of observation, comparison and generalization. The method of theoretical analysis of television stories, scientific publications, as well as determining the role of each employee of the channel, who works on the release of information on the air. Scientific novelty is a detailed analysis of news content on television, determining aspects of interdependence, efficiency and reliability of information when submitting news. Conclusions. Trends in the dynamic development of television have led to significant transformation processes and the use of the latest technologies to influence the audience in news content. The article analyzes the work with information at different levels, elaborates on each stage of news verification, summarizes news factors, approach to writing news stories.
Features of Street Photography and Its Similarities with Cinematography
Authors: Bordeniuk Serhii , Gavran Iryna , Hrymalska Valeriia
Published: December 2021

The purpose of the study is to analyze the visual features of street cinema photography and techniques for its implementation; establish the role of light, colour, composition and historical features of the street genre of photography; to prove the importance of conscious departure from the established laws of photocomposition for the implementation of creative ideas. The research methodology consists in the application of the following methods: theoretical – for the study and analysis of scientific publications, articles and photo albums of street photography masters; empirical – to observe and compare visual elements between cinema and photography. Scientific novelty. The detailed analysis of the main compositional methods designed to simplify the composition and analysis of the main components of a spectacular visual image that enhance the visual impact of cinematic photography on the viewer were conducted. Conclusions. The article describes in detail the visual features of creating cinematic street photography. The elements of street photography, the affinity of style with cinematography are generalized, the components for creating a strong visual effect on the audience are identified.
Master’s Photo Art Project ‘Ethnic Language of the Sacred’
Authors: Bezruchko Oleksandr , Bardyn Volodymyr
Published: December 2021

The author’s idea of this master’s photographic art project was to create a series of photographs that should draw attention to the current state of the sacred heritage of Boykivshchyna with the aim of their future preservation.

The series of works consists of photographs that convey archaic architecture, a special style of icon painting, church objects, carvings and interior paintings that are typical of the Boyko ethnos.
Review of the Monograph “Advertising as an Integral Part of a Film” by Yuliia Shevchuk
Authors: Bezruchko Oleksandr
Published: December 2021

The topic of Yu. S. Shevchuk's monograph "Advertising as an integral part of the film"involves the interdisciplinary nature of the study. Its disclosure required the scientist to have a thorough knowledge of film material, the ability to analyze the visual and audiovisual series of cinema in combination with the use of categorical apparatus and methodology of social communication research.
The Roles of English in the Development of Tourism and Economy in Indonesia
Authors:   Universitas Mahasaraswati, Widiastuti Ida Ayu Made Sri , Astawa I Nengah Dasi ,   Undiknas, Mantra Ida Bagus Nyoman ,   Unmas Denpasar, Susanti Putu Herny ,   UNHI
Published: December 2021

Tourism is very necessary to continue to be developed to improve the economy in Indonesia and increase the position of the country geographically, which is very strategic for tourism and the world economy. For this reason, the ability to communicate in English is absolutely necessary, in order to compete with workers from other countries, so that they can contribute to the improvement of the national economy. The ability to communicate in English is a strategic sector in the development of highly competitive human resources in the tourism industry sector and in the global economic community. By having good English communication skills, it will be easier to grab market share in the tourism industry sector and the economic sector. The tourism sector as one of the prime industrial development is developed in order to further increase the rate of national development. For this reason, it is necessary that the government continues to increase its resilience, policies, and increase the development of tourism with a view to further developing the community's economy and increasing the ability to speak English so that human resources are able to compete in various tourism industries so that the economy will increase.
The effect of rose hip on experimental anti-GBM glomerulonephritis in systemic lupus erythematosus murine models
Authors: Martirosyan Danik , Min So-Youn , Xie Chun , Yan Mei , Bashmakov Anna , Williams Samantha , Mohan Chandra
Published: December 2021

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is a chronic autoimmune disease with ominous end organ manifestations significantly affecting the kidneys and joints. One of the most frequent manifestations is glomerulonephritis (GN), a renal disease distinguished by inflammation of the glomeruli that often leads to end stage kidney failure. Treatments often have severe side effects. Rose hip (RH) is derived from Rosa canina L. and has been used as a medicinal plant for centuries; it contains numerous beneficial constituents, and has the capacity to counter lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Methods: Nephritis was induced in 129/svJ strain mice using anti-glomerular basement membrane antibodies (anti-GBM). The experimental group was fed whole RH preparation (100mg/kg body weight per day) by oral gavage from D5 to D10; the control group was fed the diluent used to dissolve RH (10 mice per group). Mice were sacrificed on D11 and phenotyped for disease. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and proteinuria were measured; flow cytometry of kidneys was performed on both groups.  Results: RH treatment decreased proteinuria, blood urea nitrogen, CD4+, CD8+, CD11b+Gr-1+ (neutrophil), and CD11b+CD11c+ (myeloid cells) compared with nephritis control. The presence of vitamin C was confirmed. RH largely maintained its total antioxidant capacity and some vitamin C content for 24 hours, as well as at least 7 days after preparation. Conclusion: Our preliminary results confirmed that RH has antioxidative properties, significant anti-inflammatory effects, and may be useful in managing glomerulonephritisKeywords: Rose hip, glomerulonephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, lupus, proteinuria, blood urea nitrogen, CD4+, CD8+, CD11b+Gr-1+(neutrophil), and CD11b+CD11c+ (myeloid cells)
Mini-review: The market growth of diagnostic and therapeutic monoclonal antibodies – SARS CoV-2 as an example
Authors: El Abd Yasmine , Tabll Ashraf , Smolic Robert , Smolic Martina
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND: The emergence of novel viruses poses severe challenges to global public health highlighting the crucial necessity for new antivirals. MAIN BODY: Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are immunoglobulins that bind to a single epitope. Mouse mAbs are generated by classic hybridoma technology and are mainly used for immunodiagnostics. For immunotherapy, it is critical to use monoclonal antibodies in their human form to minimize adverse reactions. They have been successfully used to treat numerous illnesses, accordingly, an increasing number of mAbs, with high potency against emerging viruses is the target of every biopharmaceutical company. The diagnostic and therapeutic mAbs market grows rapidly into a multi-billion-dollar business. Biopharmaceuticals are innovative resolutions which revolutionized the treatment of significant chronic diseases and malignancies. Currently, a variety of therapeutic options that include antiviral medications, monoclonal antibodies, and immunomodulatory agents are available for the management of COVID-19. SHORT CONCLUSION: The invasion of mAbs in new medical sectors will increase the market magnitude as it is expected to generate revenue of about 300 billion $ by 2025. In the current mini-review, the applications of monoclonal antibodies in immune-diagnosis and immunotherapy will be demonstrated, particularly for COVID-19 infection and will focus mainly on monoclonal antibodies in the market.
Total Cholesterol and APOE-Related Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease in the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Authors: Dunk Michelle M. , Driscoll Ira ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: December 2021

Background:

APOE ɛ4 allele confers greatest genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), yet mechanisms underlying this risk remain elusive. APOE is involved in lipid metabolism, and literature suggest relationships between high total cholesterol, APOE, and AD. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the potential role of total cholesterol in AD risk.

Objective:

To investigate the relationship between total cholesterol and APOE-related AD risk in the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative.

Methods:

Participants ( N = 1,534) were classified as controls (cognitively normal; N = 404), early mild cognitive impairment (MCI; N = 294), late MCI ( N = 539), or AD ( N = 297). Total cholesterol levels were compared across APOE genotype and diagnosis. Mendelian randomization was performed to examine causality between total cholesterol and AD risk using APOE as a genetic instrument.

Results:

Total cholesterol was higher in APOE4+ compared to APOE3 and APOE2+ ( ps < 0.04) carriers. Those with AD and late MCI ( ps < 0.001) had higher total cholesterol than the control group. Comparing APOE4+ to APOE3 carriers, the predicted odds ratios per mg/dL greater total cholesterol were 1.11 for MCI (95% confidence interval, 1.04–7.32), 1.05 for early MCI (1.01–3.22), 1.13 for late MCI (1.05–11.70), 1.21 for AD (1.09–54.05), and 1.13 for composite dementia (MCI or AD; 1.06–11.59) ( ps < 0.05, F-statistics > 10).

Conclusion:

Higher total cholesterol may be a significant contributor to AD risk, particularly in APOE4 carriers who, based on existing literature, tend to have impaired cholesterol metabolism. Our findings highlight a possible mechanism by which APOE confers AD risk and indicate potential for AD risk modification through maintenance of healthy total cholesterol levels.
Isoform-Dependent Effects of Apolipoprotein E on Sphingolipid Metabolism in Neural Cells
Authors: Kurano Makoto , Tsukamoto Kazuhisa , Sakai Eri , Hara Masumi , Yatomi Yutaka
Published: December 2021

Background:

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) and ceramides have been implicated in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) isoforms are also involved in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

Objective:

We aimed at elucidating the potential association of the ApoE isoforms with sphingolipid metabolism in the central nervous system.

Methods:

We investigated the modulations of apolipoprotein M (apoM), a carrier of S1P, S1P, and ceramides in Apoeshl mice, which spontaneously lack apoE, and U251 cells and SH-SY5Y cells infected with adenovirus vectors encoding for apoE2, apoE3, and apoE4.

Results:

In the brains of Apoeshl mice, the levels of apoM were lower, while those of ceramides were higher. In U251 cells, cellular apoM and S1P levels were the highest in the cells overexpressing apoE2 among the apoE isoforms. The cellular and medium contents of ceramides decreased in the order of the cells overexpressing apoE3 > apoE2 and increased in the cells overexpressing apoE4. In SH-SY5Y cells, apoM mRNA and medium S1P levels were also the highest in the cells overexpressing apoE2. The cellular contents of ceramides decreased in the order of the cells overexpressing apoE3 > apoE2 = apoE4 and those in medium decreased in the order of the cells overexpressing apoE3 > apoE2, while increased in the cells overexpressing apoE4.

Conclusion:

The modulation of apoM and S1P might partly explain the protective effects of apoE2 against Alzheimer’s disease, and the modulation of ceramides might be one of the mechanisms explaining the association of apoE4 with the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
Exploration of the Mechanism Underlying the Association of Incident Microinfarct and Motor Deficit: A Preliminary Functional MRI Study
Authors: Luo Xiao , Hong Hui , Wang Shuyue , Li Kaicheng , Zeng Qingze , Hong Luwei , Liu Xiaocao , Li Zheyu , Fu Yanv , Jiaerken Yeerfan , Xu XiaoPei , Yu Xinfeng , Huang Peiyu , Zhang Minming
Published: December 2021

Background:

Cerebral microinfarcts (CMIs) might cause measurable disruption to brain connections and are associated with cognitive decline, but the association between CMIs and motor impairment is still unclear.

Objective:

To assess the CMIs effect on motor function in vivo and explore the potential neuropathological mechanism based on graph-based network method.

Methods:

We identified 133 non-demented middle-aged and elderly participants who underwent MRI scanning, cognitive, and motor assessment. The short physical performance battery (SPPB) assessed motor function, including balance, walking speed, and chair stand. We grouped participants into 34 incident CMIs carriers and 99 non-CMIs carriers as controls, depending on diffusion-weighted imaging. Then we assessed the independent CMIs effects on motor function and explored neural mechanisms of CMIs on motor impairment via mapping of degree centrality (DC) and eigenvector centrality (EC).

Results:

CMIs carriers had worse motor function than non-carriers. Linear regression analyses showed that CMIs independently contributed to motor function. CMIs carriers had decreased EC in the precuneus, while increased DC and EC in the middle temporal gyrus and increased DC in the inferior frontal gyrus compared to controls ( p < 0.05, corrected). Correlation analyses showed that EC of precuneus was related to SPPB (r = 0.25) and balance (r = 0.27); however, DC (r = –0.25) and EC (r = –0.25) of middle temporal gyrus was related with SPPB in all participants ( p < 0.05, corrected).

Conclusion:

CMIs represent an independent risk factor for motor dysfunction. The relationship between CMIs and motor function may be attributed to suppression of functional hub region and compensatory activation of motor-related regions.