bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Education Research in German Non-Medical Health Care Professions compared to International Developments: a Bibliometric and Content-Related Publication Analysis
Authors: Kuka Sandra , Ehlers Jan P. , Zupanic Michaela
Published: February 2020

Background In Germany academic degree programs for non-medical health care professions (nursing, physical, occupational and speech language therapy, midwifery) have been established only recently, even if they play a key role in today´s complex patient-centered health care. The aim of this study was to evaluate the development and current state of German education research in these professions as well as to conduct a comparison to international research activities in this field.Method To achieve these objectives a bibliometric and content-related publication analysis was performed from 2008 to 2017 in four international high-impact journals. Based on appropriate inclusion criteria (bibliographical and biographical criteria, focus on first and last author, original study) and their development into a coding scheme, articles were recorded systematically and results analyzed quantitatively and content-wise. Group comparisons between German and international health care professions as well as interdisciplinary comparisons between the individual professions were performed.Results On the whole, 11.891 articles were analyzed for participation of the respective target groups, either as first or as last author. Of these, 164 original studies met the inclusion criteria with 157 publications pertaining to international and only seven to German health care professionals. The majority of authors belonged to the discipline of nursing science (n=138). North America (36.63%), Australia (18.32%) and Asia (14.85%) rank among the regions that publish most frequently. Publications by German health care professionals are rare but showed an overall high level of quality.Conclusion International publication activities by non-medical health care professionals have been on the rise in recent years. Specific funding measures as well as transnational and interdisciplinary collaborations may be potential ways of strengthening and expanding education research in countries with only young academic experiences.
Efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine Guanxinshutong capsule for the treatment of chronic heart failure with ejection fraction decrease (<50%) caused by coronary heart disease: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Yu , Xu Jiaping , Yang Jie-hong , Zhang Ling , Pan Yuan-jiang , Dou Li-ping , Zhou Peng , Xu Yi-zhou , Li Chang , He Yu , Zhou Hui-fen , Yu Li , Chen Jing-wen , Huang Shu-wei , Fu Wei , Wan Hai-tong
Published: February 2020

Background Chronic Heart failure (CHF) is a global epidemic and common cardiovascular disease with high mortality and poor prognosis, which bring heavy burdens to society and family. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been extensively used in China as an adjunct treatment for CHF. Guanxinshutong capsule (GXST), approved by the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) in 2002 (No. Z20020055), is commonly used Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) for the treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD) currently. Both experimental research and small-sample clinical trials have shown that GXST could attenuate CHF. However, the effects of GXST on CHF as an adjunct therapy are lack of high-quality clinical evidence. This study is a large-scale, multi-center, double-blinded clinical trial to explore the efficacy and safety of GXST in CHF with ejection fraction decrease (<50%) caused by CHD. Methods This study is a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. After 1week baseline period, a total of 480 participants will be randomly assigned to the intervention group and placebo group in ratio 2:1. Based on routine medications, the intervention group will be treated with GXST while the control group will be treated with placebo (both 0.3g/capsule, op, 3 capsules/time, thrice daily) for 12 weeks, and then be followed-up for another 40 weeks. The primary outcome is the effect of 6 min walk test (6MWT). The secondary outcomes include NT-proBNP, classification of the New York Heart Association (NYHA) heart function, Minnesota heart failure quality of life scale (MLHFQ), echocardiographic parameters, blood stasis syndrome symptom scale and clinical endpoint events. Metabolomics and proteomics will also be assessed. Adverse events (AEs) will be monitored throughout the trial. All the data will be recorded in electronic case report forms (eCRF) system database and analyzed in accordance with a predefined statistical analysis plan. Ethical approval of this trial has been granted by the Research Ethics Committee of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (ID: 2019-Y-003-02). Written informed consent of patients will be required. The results will be disseminated to the public through peer-reviewed journals and academic conferences. Discussion This study integrates the advantages of TCM and western medicine in the treatment of CHF, the result of this study will offer the efficacy and safety evidence of GXST on CHF with ejection fraction decrease (<50%).
Development and evaluation of an eHealth self-management intervention for chronic kidney disease patients in China: protocol for a mixed-method hybrid type 2 trial
Authors: Shen Hongxia , Kleij Rianne van der , Boog Paul JM van der , Song Xiaoyue , Wang Wenjiao , Zhang Tongtong , Li Zhengyan , Lou Xiaoping , Chavannes Niels
Published: February 2020

Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant public health concern. In CKD patients, interventions that support disease self-management have shown to improve health status and quality of life. At the moment, the use of electronic health (eHealth) technology in self-management interventions is becoming more and more popular. Evidence suggests that eHealth-based self-management interventions can improve CKD patients’ health-related outcomes. However, knowledge of the implementation and effectiveness of such interventions in general, and in China in specific, is still limited. This study protocol aims to develop and tailor the evidence-based Dutch ‘Medical Dashboard’ eHealth self-management intervention for patients suffering from CKD in China and evaluate its implementation process and effectiveness. Methods To develop and tailor a Medical Dashboard intervention for the Chinese context, we will use an Intervention Mapping (IM) approach. A literature review and mixed-method study will first be conducted to examine the needs, beliefs, perceptions of CKD patients and care providers towards disease (self-management) and eHealth (self-management) interventions (IM step 1). Based on the results of step 1, we will specify outcomes, performance objectives, and determinants, select theory-based methods and practical strategies. Knowledge obtained from prior results and insights from stakeholders will be combined to tailor the core interventions components of the ‘Medical Dashboard’ self-management intervention to the Chinese context (IM step 2-5). Then, an intervention and implementation plan will be developed. Finally, a 9-month hybrid type 2 trial design (N=60) will be employed to investigate the effectiveness of the intervention using a pilot randomized controlled trial with two parallel arms, and the implementation integrity (fidelity) and determinants of implementation (IM step 6). Discussion Our study will result in the delivery of a culturally tailored, standardized eHealth self-management intervention for CKD patients in China, which has the potential to optimize patients' self-management skills and improve health status and quality of life. Moreover, it will inform future research on the tailoring and translation of evidence-based eHealth self-management interventions in various contexts.
Psychosocial distress associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders: A qualitative study
Authors: Alnaser Musaed
Published: February 2020

Background Millions of working hours are lost globally as a result of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). American health care professionals spend approximately 13 days away from work as a result of such injuries. There is a significant body of research on the different ways in which psychosocial factors contribute to the cause of WMSDs. However, there is insufficient evidence on the psychosocial distress acquired by WMSDs and their effect on an individual’s overall health and wellbeing. The purpose of this study was to investigate psychosocial distress among workers with WMSDs from different occupational fields.Methods A phenomenological qualitative approach was used. Eight participants with work injuries were interviewed. The interview guide comprised eight semi-structured, open-ended questions. Phenomenological analysis was used to develop patterns, categories, and themes.Results Analysis of the interviews revealed three themes: the materiality of work, development of psychosocial distress, and adaptation strategies. Participants demonstrated positive working attitudes, values, and beliefs. Work provided a sense of self-worth and meaning to life. However, work injuries disrupted and challenged all aspects of the participants’ lives including work, home, family, and personally, resulting in psychosocial distress.Conclusion This study concludes that WMSDs could negatively affect the psychosocial health of workers. Depending on the severity of WMSDs and the significance of materiality of work, the amount and magnitude of psychosocial distress occur accordingly. Individual attempts using different adaptation strategies to regain control over the environment are required to reduce psychosocial distress and physical symptoms, promote family stability, and perform expected roles and responsibilities. Employers should develop and carry out health promotion programs to improve the health and well-being of people at work.
Correlations between Cortical and Locomotor Muscle in the Seven Gait Phases during Treadmill Walking
Authors: Wei Pengna , Zhang Jinhua , Wang Baozeng , Hong Jun
Published: February 2020

Background: Previous researchers have found that cortex is involved in the regulation of treadmill walking. However, cortico-muscular interaction analysis in a ‘fine’ gait phase (such as seven phases of the gait cycle) remains lacking in the time-frequency domain.
Methods: In this investigation, we used beta band electroencephalogram (EEG) data to find that eight muscle-related cortices are inconsistent at the end of the swing and stance phases. The eight muscle-related cortices differ at each phase according to gamma band EEG data. Firstly, slope sign change (SSC) and mean power frequency (MPF) features of EEG and surface electromyography (sEMG) were used to recognize the seven gait phases, which are loading response (LR), mid-stance (MST), terminal stance (TST), pre-swing (PSW), initial swing (ISW), mid-swing (MSW) and terminal swing (TSW). Following this, the time-frequency cross mutual information (TFCMI) method, a novel time-frequency analysis method, was applied to examine the eight muscle-related cortices in seven gait phases using beta and gamma band EEG data.
Results: We firstly found that the feature set comprising SSC of EEG as well as SSC and MPF of sEMG was available for seven gait phases recognition, and secondly that TFCMI values between each sEMG channel and EEG differed significantly in the seven gait phases.
Conclusions: This suggests that analysis of the seven gait phases is beneficial. These insights enrich previous findings from authors carrying out cortico-muscular interaction analysis as well as providing critical information for rehabilitation physicians.
The Effect of Adding Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide Monoclonal Antibodies to Onabotulinum Toxin A Therapy on Headache Burden: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Ozudogru Seniha , Bartell Jared , Yuan Heidi , Digre Kathleen , Baggaley Susan
Published: February 2020

Background The calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibody medications represent a novel and effective group of treatment options that can be added on to existing regimens such as onabotulinum toxin A injections for the treatment of refractory chronic migraine. Mechanistically, calcitonin gene-related peptide antibodies have been shown to inhibit Aδ fibers while onabotulinum toxin A modulates C fibers. Due to the differing loci of effect and anecdotal observations, a synergistic effect between these therapies is a theoretical possibility. The aim of this study was to investigate this relationship. Methods Patients from the University of Utah Headache Clinic having received at least two rounds of injections of onabotulinum toxin A who responded partially but not completely to therapy were started on a calcitonin gene-related peptide antibody medication. The patients’ responses to a brief headache burden questionnaire prior to their onabotulinum toxin A administration at the time of each visit were collected. Parameters we monitored included the number of headaches experienced while receiving onabotulinum toxin A therapy, the initial timing of the of the wear off period, and the number of headaches after that the wear off period began. Results Half of the 36 patients included in the study demonstrated an improvement in their headache burden based on at least one parameter from their questionnaire. These 18 patients reported an average increase of 2.0 additional weeks for the beneficial effects of the onabotulinum toxin A to wear off. Twelve patients reported no change in onabotulinum toxin A efficacy while 6 patients showed greater headache burden or lower onabotulinum toxin A treatment efficacy following the initiation of one of the monoclonal antibodies. Conclusions Our study highlights the potential of calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies to serve as an effective add-on therapy for chronic migraine patients receiving onabotulinum toxin A injections, especially those designated “responders” but still experiencing the drug wear off prior to the next round of injections. Larger sample sizes and more frequent at-home questionnaire data are needed to corroborate these results.
CYPB upregulates and promotes cell proliferation in endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Liu Jing , Zuo Ying , Qu Gui-Mei , Song Xiao , Liu Zhong-Hui , Zhang Ting-Guo , Zheng Zhu-Hua , Wang Hong-Kun
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

The molecular pathogenesis of endometrial cancer is not yet completely understood, preventing the development of successful therapies. Here, we determine the effect of CYPB on the growth of endometrial cancer.

METHODS

In this study, we examined the expression of CYPB in endometrial cancer tissues using immunohistochemistry. CYPB silencing in the human cell line HEC-1-B was used to evaluate the role of CYPB in the malignant phenotype of endometrial tumor cells, while CCK-8 and colony formation assays were performed to assess its effect on tumor cell proliferation. Furthermore, microarray analysis was carried out to compare the global mRNA expression profile between the normal and CYPB-knockdown cell. Gene ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed to determine the potential function of different expressed genes related to CYPB.

RESULTS

We found that CYPB was upregulated in endometrial cancer, while cells with suppressed expression of CYPB exhibited markedly reduced migration. We identified 1536 differentially expressed genes (onefold change, p< 0.05), among which 652 genes were upregulated and 884 genes were downregulated, and most of them were enriched in cell cycle, glycosphingolipid biosynthesis, adherens junctions, and metabolism pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study suggest that CYPB may serve as a novel regulator of endometrial cell proliferation, thus representing a novel target for gene-targeted endometrial therapy.
Effect of High Body Mass Index on Short- and Long-term Outcomes of Patients who Underwent Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Advanced Gastric Cancer: A Case Control Study
Authors: Luo Tianqi , Chen Guoming , Liang Chengcai , Jiang Kaiming , Lei Kai , Yuan Shuqiang , Qiu Haibo , Liang Yao , Chen Ying-Bo
Published: February 2020

Background High body mass index (BMI) is thought to be a preoperative risk factor for surgical treatment. Until now, few studies have investigated the long-term impact of preoperative high BMI on advanced gastric cancer (GC) patients who underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG). Therefore, the present study was designed to compare clinical outcomes between high BMI and normal BMI patients who underwent LG. MethodsWe retrospectively investigated 282 pathological stage II~III GC cases who underwent radical LG plus D2 lymphadenectomy from February 2009 to May 2018. Based on the China BMI classification, the patients were classified into a high (BMI ≥ 24 kg/m2) or normal (BMI < 24 kg/m2) BMI group. The clinical characteristics, intraoperative findings, short-term and long-term outcomes of the two groups of patients were then compared. Results The high BMI group had longer operation time (160.1 ± 36.0 minutes vs. 147.7 ± 33.7 minutes; P = 0.005) and greater intraoperative bleeding (138.3 ± 239.4ml vs. 86.6 ± 67.7ml; P = 0.002) compared to the normal BMI group. Moreover, shorter time to flatus, starting the soft diet, removing drain tube and length of stay (all P < 0.05) were observed in the high BMI patients. However, there was no significant difference in relapse-free survival or overall survival between the two groups. Conclusion Patients with high BMI was associated with longer operation time and greater amount of intraoperative bleeding but had faster recovery as compared to those with normal BMI. Also, LG can be considered as safe with no significant difference in terms of short- and long-term outcomes on the peri- and post-operative outcomes between the two BMI groups of patients. Nevertheless, these surgeries for high BMI patients should be performed by experienced surgeons.
Splenic enlargement induced by preoperative chemotherapy is a useful indicator for predicting liver regeneration after resection for colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Konishi Takanori , Yoshidome Hiroyuki , Shimizu Hiroaki , Yoshitomi Hideyuki , Furukawa Katsunori , Takayashiki Tsukasa , Kuboki Satoshi , Takano Shigetsugu , Miyazaki Masaru , Ohtsuka Masayuki
Published: February 2020

Background: Conversion chemotherapy may downsize unresectable colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs), but may cause liver injury and splenic enlargement. The effect of preoperative chemotherapy on liver regeneration after liver resection remains undetermined. The aim of this study was to examine whether splenic enlargement induced by preoperative chemotherapy is an indicator to identify high-risk patients for impaired liver regeneration and liver dysfunction after resection.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 118 Japanese patients with CRLMs. Fifty one patients had conversion chemotherapy. The other 67 patients underwent upfront liver resection. We clarified effects of conversion chemotherapy on splenic volume, liver function, and postoperative liver regeneration. Perioperative outcome was also analyzed.
Results: A ratio of the splenic volume before and after chemotherapy (SP index) in the oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy group was significantly greater than other chemotherapy groups after 9 or more chemotherapy cycles. Patients whose SP index was 1.2 or more had significantly higher indocyanine green retention rate at 15 min (ICG-R15) than patients without chemotherapy. Analyses of covariance showed liver regeneration rate after resection was decreased in patients whose SP index was 1.2 or more. The incidence of postoperative liver dysfunction in patients whose SP index was 1.2 or more was significantly greater than patients without chemotherapy. Multivariate analysis showed SP index was a significant predictive factor of impaired liver regeneration.
Conclusions: Splenic enlargement induced by preoperative chemotherapy was a useful indicator for impaired liver regeneration after resection and a decision-making tool of treatment strategy for unresectable CRLMs.
Probing the beam-induced heating effect inside a transmission electron microscope by nanoparticle labels
Authors: Zhang Lei , He Longbing , Yang Yufeng , Hong Hua , Tang Luping , Sun Litao
Published: February 2020

Beam-induced heating effect on nanoscale samples is a crucial question as it strongly influences the interpretation of observed unusual behaviors. This question is currently under debate without a convincing conclusion. Here, using silver nitride (Ag 3 N) nanoparticles as temperature labels, we perform an investigation on this heating effect inside a transmission electron microscope (TEM) under normal imaging conditions. Combined with experimental measurements and semi-quantitative calculations, a temperature increase of more than 100 K is estimated and confirmed in the graphite carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4 ) films. Strong temperature gradients are found to exist in the single-end fixed g-C 3 N 4 films. The influencing factors of heat accumulation are also investigated and discussed. Findings in this paper may shed some light on the understanding of the abnormal behaviors of nano-objects observed inside TEM.
New recognition of hepatic perivascular epithelioid cell tumours (PEComa): a retrospective analysis of 35 cases
Authors: Yang Xiao , Wang Qing Yuan , Zhou Xiao , Zhou Haoming , Jia Wen Bo , Hu Chun Yang , Chu Jian , Kong Lian Bao
Published: February 2020

Purpose Our primary objective was to investigate the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of hepatic perivascular epithelioid cell tumours (PEComa).Patients and Methods Thirty-five cases of pathologically proven hepatic PEComa that were treated in the Department of Hepatobiliary Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2008 to February 2019 were retrospectively analysed, and the literature was reviewed.Results Twenty-nine females and 6 males were included in this study. The mean age of these patients was 48.0 years (range, 21-75 years). Thirteen patients complained of upper abdominal pain and discomfort, but the tumours in the other patients were identified by performing an imaging examination. Hepatic PEComas tended to occur in the right lobe of the liver (20 cases in the right lobe, 13 in the left lobe and 2 in the caudate lobe). Two cases were characterized by multiple tumours, and the remaining cases were single lesions (range, 1.2-12 cm). Only 8 cases were correctly diagnosed by the preoperative imaging examination, and the correct diagnosis rate was only 22.9%. The postoperative immunohistochemistry analysis showed that hepatic PEComas are positive for human melanoma black 45 (HMB-45), Melan-A and smooth muscle actin (SMA), with the exception of 1 case that was negative for Melan-A. All patients undergoing an operation accepted regular follow-up, and the average time was 66.5 months (range, 3-132 months). Two patients who experienced tumour recurrence and 1 patient who died due to cardiovascular disease, but the remaining patients showed no evidence of tumour recurrence or metastasis during the follow-up period.Conclusions Hepatic PEComa is a rare type of tumour that mainly occurs in young and middle-aged women. The lack of clinical manifestations and imaging findings increases the difficulty of determining a preoperative diagnosis, which mainly depends on the pathological examinations. Surgery is currently the only effective treatment, and long-term clinical follow-up is necessary due to the aggressive behaviour and relapse of hepatic PEComa in some cases.
Implementation of the policy on standard protocol for care of septic and aseptic wounds in selected public health facilities in Ghana: an analytic case study
Authors: Alhassan Robert , Karley Benedicta Quarshie-Odoo , Ackah Francis Ennin , Adodoaji Irene
Published: February 2020

Background It is estimated that millions of patients are affected by healthcare associated infections (HAIs) each year. In Ghana, high prevalence of HAIs in relations to septic and surgical wounds has been largely attributed to poor adherence to standard policy protocols on wound management by clinical staff especially nurses. Objective Explore the extent to which nursing staff adhere to the policy protocol on management of septic and surgical wounds in selected public health facilities in Ghana. Methodology An analytic cross-sectional study among nursing staff (n=140) in three government facilities in the Volta region of Ghana. Subjective and objective performance scores of staff on adherence proxies were compared using the Wilcoxon Signed-rank test, and univariate ordered logistic regression analysis used to predict staff likelihood of adherence to standard policy protocols on septic and surgical wound care. Findings Overall, staff self-rated themselves higher on subjective performance proxies relative to their objective scores (p<0.05). Staff with more years of work experience did not translate into a higher likelihood of adhering to standard protocol on wound healing (Coef.= -0.49, CI=-0.93 -0.05, p=0.036). Conversely, being a senior nursing officer relative to other professional ranks increases staff likelihood of complying with standard policy protocol for wound care (Coef. 5.27, CI=0.59 9.95, p=0.027) relative to lower rank of nurses. Conclusion There is the need for accelerated in-service training for staff on standard protocols for wound are coupled with supportive supervisions. Staff adherence to standard quality care should be a pre-requisite for licensing of health facilities by regulatory bodies like Health Facilities Regulatory Agency and National Health Insurance Authority.
Effect of dexmedetomidine on prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting in pediatric strabismus surgery: A randomized controlled study
Authors: li shuangshuang , Liu Tingjie , Xia Junming , Jia Jie , Li Wenxian
Published: February 2020

Background : Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are common side-effects following strabismus surgery. The present study aimed to compare the effects of different doses of dexmedetomidine (DEX) on PONV incidence in pediatric patients undergoing strabismus surgery. Methods : In this prospective randomized double-blinded study, 126 pediatric patients undergoing strabismus surgery were randomized into one of three groups: Placebo group, normal saline; DEX1 group, 0.3 ug/kg dexmedetomidine, and DEX2 group, 0.5 ug/kg dexmedetomidine. Oculocardiac reflex (OCR) events were recorded during surgery. PONV or postoperative vomiting (POV) was recorded for 24 hours in the ward. Pediatric anesthesia emergence delirium (PAED) scale and emergence agitation (EA) scale were recorded in the recovery room. Results : Intraoperative OCR was significantly reduced in DEX2 group (42%) as compared to that of Placebo group (68%) (p=0.0146). During the first 24 hours post-op, the overall incidence of PONV was significantly lower in DEX2 group (10%) than that of Placebo group (32%) (p=0.0142). There was no significant difference in POV among the three groups. PAED or EA scores among the three groups were similar during recovery time. Conclusion : Dexmedetomidine (0.5 ug/kg) reduced OCR and PONV without lengthening extubation time or recovery time in pediatric patients undergoing strabismus surgery.
CREDIT CAPACITY ASSESSMENT OF COMMERCIAL BANK BORROWER
Authors: Bondarenko A. , Moiseienko M. , Gordienko V. , Dutchenko O.
Published: February 2020

The purpose of the article is to study the essence of solvency of the enterprise, to determine the approaches to assessment and analysis of solvency.
Since the assessment of the borrower's solvency is the key to the successful functioning not only of the financial and credit institution, but also of the enterprise itself, so in the conditions of formation and development of market relations lenders need to have an accurate idea of the borrower's solvency.
Relevance of the research topic is explained by the fact that today the solvency of the enterprise requires a thorough and comprehensive research in terms of the solvency of enterprises and the development of a scientific justification for a common algorithm that borrowers can use to calculate their credit obligations.
Today, there is no single algorithm for determining a borrower's solvency. Each banking institution uses its own methodology, which, in its opinion, is the most effective and takes into account a wide range of financial indicators.
According to the valuation specificity for the assessment of legal entities regulated by the NBU, determining the borrower's solvency involves analyzing its financial and economic characteristics Requirements of the Regulations on the determination of the size of credit risk by the banks of Ukraine established the calculation of the credit risk indicator, which provides for the definition of the integral indicator, calculation of the borrower's financial class and the probability of default.
Within the limits of the given research the complex estimation of Technologia JSC solvency has been carried out, by results of which the quantitative indicators received as a result of construction of the integral model, are included into the range of values corresponding to the second class of the borrower. Calculation of the overall qualitative indicator confirmed the high level of solvency of the studied enterprise, with a minimum probability of default.
In order to improve the quality of the solvency assessment of the borrower we propose, in further studies, to consider the competitiveness of the enterprise as a factor of more accurate determination of its financial condition and solvency.
Keywords:
solvency, borrower, financial standing, financial factors.
FEATURES OF REFORM OF ENERGY USING "SMART" TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: Matvieieva Iu. , Kotiuk Kotiuk R.
Published: February 2020

The article investigates the features of energy reforms, that based on the use of «smart technologies». Such reforms based on the principles of regulation, privatization, restructuring and competition have been analyzed. The advantages and disadvantages of energy reforms have been identified in the articles. The main problems of reforms in the energy sector in developing countries are highlighted. Thus, the challenges of implementing of reforms in the energy sector of developing countries include: political challenges; the need to take into account the initial conditions of operation of the energy sector; identifying individual approaches, methods, tools and technologies in the process of implementing energy reforms for individual territories; realization of the target tasks. An analysis of the goals, objectives and benefits of Ukraine's energy strategy until 2035 was conducted. The study substantiates the importance of implementing of «smart» technologies in the energy sector. The most popular innovative energy saving technologies are described. Particular attention is paid to smart-grid technologies.
It has been proven that «smart» technologies have made a positive contribution from the economic and social spheres, which have been generally achieved in order to achieve targeted development and to exist in other spheres.
The paper argues that «smart» technologies are positively linked to economic and social sustainability, aimed at achieving the goals of sustainable development and environmental protection.
It is proposed to take into account the synergistic effects of the use of «smart» technologies in three-dimensional format: environmental, social and economic effects.
As a synergistic effect of the introduction of "smart" technologies in energy reforms is expected to increase the level of socio-ecological-economic development; scale effect, integration effect, integrated benefits effect, conglomerate effect; synergies with other infrastructures.
Keywords:
energy reforms, smart technologies, energy strategy of Ukraine, smart grid, synergistic effect.
Disaggregated Short-Term Inflation Forecast (STIF) for Monetary Policy Decision in Sierra Leone
Authors: Jackson E.A. , Tamuke E. , Jabbie M.
Published: February 2020

The study focuses on developing a model of short-term inflation forecasting (STIF) in the context of monetary policy conceptualization. The research toolkit is accompanied using the Box-Jenkins Time Series Approach (ARIMA) to analyze inflation and its risks in Sierra Leone. The proposed model is based on diagrams characterizing the constituents of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as the primary means of communication to inform the general public about the uncertainty surrounding the dynamics of prices in Sierra Leone. The author points out that such an approach to monetary policy forecasting will allow the use of expert judgment to stabilize the economy in the formation of key areas of monetary policy functioning and development. The article focuses on the interpretation of risks for each of the components of the CPI, which will enhance confidence in the financial and economic decisions made by the financial management of the Bank of Sierra Leone [BSL]. Empirical findings have shown that CPI components such as food and non-alcoholic beverages, housing and health indicate that financial shocks occurring in or outside Sierra Leone can significantly affect the overall CPI. It is stated that such a trend causes a fleeting effect of rising prices on consumer spending in the short term. The study postulates the uniqueness of the component model in the context of turning the key focus of financial management of business structures and government organizations to target sectoral events. As a result of the study, the conclusion is drawn about the need to monitor price volatility by empirically evaluating the components of the CPI basket in the forward-looking perspective. The importance of forecast is been resounded all around the globe, given its relevance in addressing the dynamics of macroeconomic variables and their significant implications for economic stabilisation and decision-making. Keywords: financial management, inflation, forecasting, consumer price index, CPI components; Sierra Leone.
Sustainable Development: Is This Paradigm The Remedy of All Challenges? Does Its Goals Capture The Essence of Real Development and Sustainability? With Reference to Discourses, Creativeness, Boundaries and Institutional Architecture
Authors: Bhandari Medani P.
Published: February 2020

This paper summarizes the arguments and counterarguments within the scientific discussion on the issue of sustainable development with reference to discourses, creativeness, boundaries and institutional architecture. The main purpose of the research is to understand current global challenges – environmental, geographic, socioeconomic – poverty, hunger, health and inequality. Sustainability is a complex issue which interchangeably in use with sustainable development. The term sustainability discourse stands to maintain the equilibrium between nature and society and fulfill the societal demands (which could be environmental, economic and social. The boundaries of sustainable development can also be seen and evaluated in terms of institutionalization process and organizational process. More importantly, United Nation has been vigorously working to overcome with these challenges through various initiatives. In this regard, United Nation has been pioneering to minimize global challenges throughout its history. United Nation declared four decades (1960-1990) as development decade with the objective of total development primarily in the developing world. In 1990, UN presented Human Development Report 1990, and in 2000 UN declared millennium development goals (2000-2015). However, Goals were only partially achieved. With this experience, UN declared “Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which declared 17 Sustainable Development Goals and 169 targets. The investigation of the topic in the paper is carried out in the following logical sequence: 1) what is the epistemological stand of sustainable development; 2) how discourses are developed, what is the limitation; 3) boundaries, how creativeness is incorporated in the sustainability domain and are SDGs are achievable; 4) are governments are ready to cope with the domestic and international challenges. The results of the research can be useful for many scholars, international organizations, governments, civil societies. Keywords: United Nations, Human Development, Millennium Development Goals, Discourses, Boundaries, Creativeness, Institution, Sustainable Development, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, South Asia, Environmental Problems, Over Population, Poverty, Hunger, UNESCO, WHO, Epistemology.
ANÁLISE DA SUBSTITUIÇÃO PARCIAL DE AGREGADOS POR RESÍDUOS DE PNEUS EM BLOCOS SEXTAVADOS
Authors: Morais Pâmela Pimentel , Sperandio Kastelli Pacheco
Published: February 2020

A busca por soluções construtivas que sejam eficientes e capazes de minimizar os impactos ambientais provenientes da construção civil tem intensificado a pesquisa por materiais alternativos. Esses materiais visam agregar aspectos sustentáveis e modernos, proporcionando, assim, uma melhoria ao ambiente construído com o emprego de um volume reduzido de recursos naturais. Dessa forma, o presente artigo, faz uma análise experimental da substituição parcial de agregados miúdos por resíduos da borracha de pneus na fabricação de blocos sextavados, a fim de verificar a sua viabilidade na construção civil, além de demonstrar a sua contribuição para o segmento da sustentabilidade. Foram moldados blocos convencionais, servindo, dessa maneira, como parâmetro de comparação e blocos com substituição da areia pelos resíduos de pneus. Aos 28 dias de cura foram realizados ensaios de absorção de água e de resistência mecânica à compressão. Os testes de absorção de água se mostraram satisfatórios para ambos os traços. Quanto aos ensaios de resistência à compressão, os corpos-de-prova com incorporação dos resíduos sofreram uma redução significativa de resistência, não atingindo o mínimo exigido em norma. Contudo, é válido a sua aplicação em ambientes de leves solicitações, como jardins, praças e calçadas. Contribuindo, dessa forma, com o meio ambiente a partir da redução do consumo excessivo de agregados naturais; além de proporcionar um destino ambientalmente adequado para os resíduos provenientes da recauchutagem de pneus.
PERSPECTIVA DOCENTE SOBRE A INCLUSÃO DE ALUNOS PORTADORES DO ESPECTRO AUTISMO
Authors: Yamaguchi Klenicy Kazumy de Lima , Souza Rayene Monteiro , Silva Rubenita Minguim
Published: February 2020

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar as perspectivas docentes sobre as dificuldades e o processo de inclusão na integração dos alunos portadores do transtorno do espectro do autismo nas escolas públicas do município de Coari (Amazonas). A metodologia utilizada contou com o diagnóstico da quantidade de discentes atendidos nas escolas públicas e da aplicação de um questionário semiestruturado para analisar a perspectiva dos docentes sobre a inclusão desses alunos. Os resultados descritos nesse trabalho identificaram as principais dificuldades metodológicas dos professores, sendo a interação social um dos maiores obstáculos para a adaptação desses discentes nas escolas. Além disso, detectou-se lacunas na formação acadêmica dos professores e a ausência de diagnostico para crianças que apresentam caraterísticas dessa alteração. Esse trabalho abre a perspectiva para estudos mais detalhados sobre pesquisas educacionais inclusivas e contribui para a busca de um ensino igualitário no Brasil.
Principles of Functional Planning of House Zoning in Small Towns of Tajikistan
Authors: Zokirov Rakhimdzhon Sharifovich , Normurotov Bekmurod Validzhonovich
Published: February 2020

The article discusses the basic principles of functional planning of house zoning native to small towns in Tajikistan, taking into account the national specifics and demographic features. The dynamic population growth in the region allows the development of existing settlements and the emergence of new cities.
Impact of Climatic Factors on Settlement Formation
Authors: Zokirov Rakhimdzhon Sharifovich , Kaiumov Abdulakim Abdukaiumovich
Published: February 2020

The article considers the influence of various natural and climate conditions of the Republic of Tajikistan on the formation of new towns and cities. The climate conditions are closely interconnected with the landscape, namely valleys, foothills, low mountains, and the highland nature of the terrain, and requires various architectural and planning adjustments.
A Theoretical Study and Analysis of Competitiveness in a Regional Economy
Authors: Myskova Anastasiya Evgenievna
Published: February 2020

The article considers theoretical and practical approaches to determining the competitiveness of a region and the factors that determine it. A general analysis of regional competitiveness indicators has been performed. A study of economic regional development and growth and its connection with the real standard of living of the population of this region is carried out.
The Role of Family Upbringing Style in Development of Independence in Younger Preschool Children
Authors: Feliksova Valentina Vladimirovna
Published: February 2020

The article is focused on the topical issue of developing independence in younger preschool children. The author investigates the influence of family upbringing style on development of independence. The study includes an analysis of scientific research on this issue; the methods chosen for this study and its results are presented.
The Interplay Between Depression and Parkinson´s Disease: Learning the Link Through Ca2+/cAMP Signaling
Authors: Bergantin Leandro Bueno
Published: February 2020

Background:

Parkinson´s disease (PD) and depression have an interplay at multiple cellular
levels, a phenomenon which is translated into clinical data showing that depressive patients presented
an enhanced risk for developing PD. The pathogenesis of both diseases is under intensive debate as
correlated to dysregulations related to Ca2+ signaling.

Objective:

Then, revealing this interplay between these diseases may provide novel insights into the
pathogenesis of them.

Methods:

Publications involving Ca2+ signaling, PD and depression (alone or combined) were collected
by searching PubMed and EMBASE.

Results:

Not surprisingly, calcium (Ca2+) channel blockers (CCBs), classical antihypertensive medicines,
have been demonstrated off-label effects, such as alleviating both PD and depression symptoms.

Discussion:

A mechanism under debate for the antiparkinsonism and antidepressant effects associated
to CCBs is focused on the restoration of Ca2+ signaling dysregulations. In addition, previous studies
have observed that CCBs can affect Ca2+/cAMP signaling.

Conclusion:

Thus, this article discussed the role of Ca2+/cAMP signaling in the interplay between
depression and PD, including the implications for the pharmacotherapy involving CCBs.
Pharmacological Applications of Phlorotannins: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Javed Ahsan , Hussain Muhammad Bilal , Tahir Ali , Waheed Marwa , Anwar Ahsan , Shariati Mohammad Ali , Plygun Sergey , Laishevtcev Alexey , Pasalar Mehdi
Published: February 2020

Background:

Seaweeds, including marine brown algae, are traditional food sources in
Asia. Phlorotannins, as the product of the polyketide pathway, are mainly found in brown algae.
Different properties have been attributed to this group of marine products ranging from antiallergic
to anticancer activity. Mechanism of action is not obvious for all these properties, but
there are some explanations for such effects.

Objective:

The current study aimed to review the phlorotannins and to assess the beneficial uses
in medicine.

Methods:

Different databases were explored with the exact terms “Phlorotannin”, “Seaweed”
and “Brown Algae”. Data assembly was finalized by June 2019. The papers showing the effects
of phlorotannins in medicine were gathered and evaluated for further assessment.

Results:

General physiological aspects of phlorotannins were firstly evaluated. Different arrays
of pharmacological properties ranging from anti-diabetic activity to cancer treatment were found.
The mechanism of action for some of these beneficiary properties has been confirmed through
rigorous examinations, but there are some features with unknown mechanisms.

Conclusion:

Phlorotannins are characterized as a multifunctional group of natural products. Potential
antioxidant characteristics could be attributed to preventive and/or their curative role in
various diseases.
Water Pollution Monitoring through Remote Sensing
Authors: Vallidevi Krishnamurthy , Gopinath Kannappan P. , Nagarajan Krishnan K. , Prakash D. Gnana , Sudhamsu Gadug , Sudhish S. , Al-Zahrani Salma A.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Water is undoubtedly a very precious resource that helps life thrive on this planet, and its pollution is a problem which is potent of erasing almost all forms of life on earth. Hence, considering the magnitude of this problem, studies and experiments have been focused (from the day water pollution was recognised as an eminent issue) on monitoring and finding possible solutions for water pollution. While the latter deals with treating and purifying water using a variety of concepts, monitoring deals with the continuous assessment of water quality of a waterbody.

Methodology:

There are several methods for monitoring purposes, and remote sensing is a popular choice, thanks to its wide applicability and flexibility in implementation. Remote sensing basically deals with collecting data about a place (which is to be monitored) and sending the data to another ‘remote’ location for analysis. This article aims to provide a description of some methods employed in recent times for the purpose of remote sensing and a short section which deals with the analysis of the remotely sensed data using machine learning / deep learning models, hence making the reader aware of the concept of remote sensing and its scope for monitoring water pollution (or any form of pollution) in the future.

Conclusions:

The detailed comparative analysis of these methods showed that sensor based water quality monitoring with Geographical Information System (GIS) will be more efficient in detection of water pollutants. The further research in this field may introduce many advancements to enable efficient water pollution detection techniques.
Design and Development of Solid Dispersion of Valsartan by a Lyophilization Technique: A 32 Factorial Design Approach
Authors: Shirsath Nitin Rajendra , Goswami Ajaygiri Kamalgiri
Published: February 2020

Background:

Valsartan is a poorly water-soluble drug having limited oral bioavailability. Its absorption and onset of action are mostly depending on solubility, it needs to enhance their solubility for maximum therapeutic action.

Objective:

The aim of this work is to formulate valsartan-mannitol solid dispersions (SDs) by bottom-up process based-freeze drying (lyophilization) techniques for solubility enhancement of valsartan.

Methods:

Valsartan is BCS class II drug having low aqueous solubility and low oral bioavailability. It
needs to improve its solubility for the fastest onset of action. SDs were prepared using water as a solvent
and tertiary butyl alcohol (TBA) as anti-solvent. A 32 (three level-two factors) response surface methodology
was used to detect the effect of independent variables such as the amount of valsartan (X1) and the
amount of mannitol (X2) on dependent variables such as solubility (Y1) and particle size (Y2).

Results:

Prepared SDs were characterized by employing solubility, particle size determination, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), zeta potential, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The optimum values of solubility and particle size were 115.14µg/L and 242.5 nm respectively.

Conclusions::

Solid dispersions of valsartan-mannitol were successfully prepared by simple lyophilization techniques and seem to be promising for enhancing dissolution rate (solubility) and oral bioavailability of valsartan.