bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Severe Aortic Valve Stenosis: Impact of Patient Sex and Life Expectancy on Treatment Choice
Authors: Rashedi Nina , Otto Catherine M
Published: December 2022

In adults with severe aortic stenosis, sex and age differences in symptoms and diagnosis may lead to delays in intervention. Choice of intervention partly depends on expected longevity because bioprosthetic valves have limited durability, particularly in younger patients. Current guidelines recommend the following: a mechanical valve in younger adults (aged <50 years) if lifelong anticoagulation is possible and acceptable and a valve-sparing procedure is not possible; surgical mechanical or bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in adults aged 50–65 years; and transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for those aged >80 years based on lower mortality and morbidity compared to SAVR and adequate valve durability. For patients aged 65–80 years, the choice between TAVI and a bioprosthetic SAVR depends on expected longevity, which is greater in women than men, as well as associated cardiac and noncardiac conditions, valvular and vascular anatomy, estimated risk of SAVR versus TAVI and expected complications and patient preferences.
Morphological and immunohistochemical features of the placenta in women in labour with a history of sexually transmitted infections
Authors:   Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Krotik O.I.
Published: December 2022

Purpose - to explore and evaluate macroscopic, histological, morphological and immunohistochemical changes in the placenta, to study the peculiarities of the marker expression of endothelial cells CD34 in the vascular bed of the placental villous tree in women in labour with a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) after pregravid preparation before cycles of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Materials and methods. The analysis of morphological and immunohistochemical examination as well as expression level of CD34 in 50 placentas from women in labour with a history of STIs was conducted. The Group I (main) - 25 placentas from the women in labour who underwent pregravid preparation before the ART cycle, obstetric and perinatal support and delivery in accordance with the medical and organizational algorithms developed by us, prognostic methods and treatment and preventive regimens; the Group II - 25 placentas from the women in labour who received generally accepted prognostic and therapeutic and preventive measures. Results. Histological examination of placentas from the women of the Group I demonstrated the manifestations of compensatory processes prevailed, and there was a much lower severity of pathological changes. The placental coefficient in the women of the Group I was probably higher than in women of the Group II, accounting for 0.17 versus 0.15. There was a decrease in the branching of blood vessels, as a result of which the capillaries occupied mainly the central and paracentral position. Dystrophic and necrotic processes, with the replacement of the chorion epithelium with fibroid masses, were manifested in a small number of terminal villi which belonged to the adaptive mechanisms. The largest area of CD34 expression in the villous chorion of the placenta was observed in the Group I and was 9.49±0.47%, in the Group II it was 1.29 times lower (7.34±0.15%; p<0.01). The highest optical density of CD34 expression in the villi chorion of the placenta was observed in the women of the Group II (0.22±0.01 r.u.), which was 1.25 times higher than in patients of the Group I (0.20±0.01 r.u.; p<0.01). Conclusions. In the case of pregravid preparation before ART cycles and in the case of complex correction of maladaptive disorders in the fetoplacental complex of pregnant women with a history of STIs, all structural mechanisms of placental adaptation are included, which allow to maintain the morphometric and diffusion parameters of the villous tree at the level of stable compensation, which is the most important adaptive tool that helps to maintain fetal viability. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the author.
Effectiveness of in vitro fertilization (IVF/ICSI) programs in patients with a predicted poor ovarian response
Authors:   Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Chayka О.О.
Published: December 2022

Purpose - to show the effectiveness of in vitro fertilization (IVF) programs in infertile women with a predicted poor ovarian response to stimulation with various gonadotropins and to study the course of pregnancy, childbirth and the condition of their newborns. Materials and methods. The Group І is 75 women, the controlled stimulation of superovulation in which by urinary gonadotropins was performed in the protocol with the use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist. The Group ІІ (comparison) is 65 women, the stimulation of superovulation in which was carried out according to an analogical scheme with recombinant gonadotropins. Confirmation or exclusion of biochemical pregnancy was carried out by determining the level of total human chorionic gonadotropin in blood serum 14 days after embryo transfer. Data processing was carried out using the Stat Soft Statistica 8.0 software package. Results. The frequency of cancellation of IVF cycle (IVF/ICSI) in the patients of the Group І was reliably lower than among the patients of the Group ІІ: in the Group І it was 2 (2.7%) cases against 8 (12.3%) cases in the Group ІІ (p<0.05). IVF cycle cancellations among the patients of the Group І was reliably lower than among the women of the Group ІІ (OR=0.205; 95% СІ: 0.048-0.87; p<0.05). Embryo transfer procedure was performed for 73 women of the Group І and 57 patients of the Group ІІ. The frequency of pregnancy on the IVF protocol and embryo transfer was 41.1% (30/73) and 36.8% (21/57), respectively. Absence of the further embryo development after implantation (biochemical pregnancy) was registered in 1 (3.3%) woman of the Group І and 1 (4.8%) patient of the Group ІІ. Non-developing pregnancy up to 12 weeks was diagnosed in 2 (6.6%) women of the Group І and 3 (14.2%) patients of the Group ІІ. Pregnancy that occurred after the IVF/ICSI program resulted in childbirth in 24 (32.9%) women out of 73 of the Group І and 13 patients out of 57 (22.8%) of the Group ІІ. Conclusions. In women who underwent the controlled stimulation of superovulation by urinary gonadotropins in the protocol using gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist compared to women who underwent the stimulation of superovulation with recombinant gonadotropins according to an analogical scheme, the frequency of pregnancy and completion of pregnancy by childbirth was reliably higher. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the author.
Clinical and statistical analysis of obstetric and perinatal complications in pregnant women with an allogeneic fetus
Authors:   Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Romanenko T.G. , Yesyp N.V. ,   Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv
Published: December 2022

Deterioration of women’s reproductive health causes an increase in the general number of oocyte donation and surrogacy programs. The formation of an allogeneic fetus in such cases affects the course of implantation and placentation, which is reflected in the increased frequency of obstetric and perinatal complications. The psychological status of these patients also has a significant impact on the course of pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, which differs from that of women who are carrying their own child and/or have undergone infertility treatment. Purpose - to perform a comparative clinical and statistical analysis of somatic and reproductive history, obstetric and perinatal complications in pregnant women with an allogeneic fetus and pregnant women who were involved in in vitro fertilization (IVF) programs with their own oocytes. Materials and methods. Clinical and statistical analysis of the medical records of 200 patients, who were divided into two groups, was performed: the Group I - 150 pregnant women who were involved in IVF programs with the formation of an allogeneic fetus; the Group II (control) - 50 pregnant women who underwent IVF using the woman's own oocytes. Results. Among patients with an allogeneic fetus, a significantly lower number of various complications of somatic and reproductive anamnesis were recorded. The rates of obstetric and perinatal complications were comparable or higher as in the control group; the criteria for statistical significance of the difference were fulfilled for the indicators of gestational anemia, which was more often registered in the main group. The proportion of deliveries by caesarean section was significantly lower among pregnant women with an allogeneic fetus. The average weight of the newborn of the main group was significantly lower compared to the control. Conclusions. Despite the significantly lower frequency of detection of factors aggravating somatic and reproductive anamnesis, patients with an allogeneic fetus are characterized by comparable or higher rates of obstetric and perinatal complications, which makes it necessary to provide further investigation of the potential causes of this phenomenon, the features of the functioning of the fetoplacental complex, and the influence of the psychological status of the patients in order to improve the algorithm of pregravid preparation and antenatal surveillance. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.
Modern view on the etiology and pathogenesis of preeclampsia as the main cause of perinatal losses
Authors:   Dnipro State Medical University, Ukraine, Yushchenko M.I. , Duka Yu.M. ,   Dnipro State Medical University, Ukraine
Published: December 2022

Preeclampsia (PE) is one of the most important problems of modern obstetrics. There is an opinion that the nature of PE is different when it starts before or after 34 weeks of pregnancy. Early onset of PE correlates with high neonatal morbidity and mortality and maternal complications. Being a multifactorial disease, PE has a number of candidate genes that are involved in the complex regulation of various endothelial functions. The article provides an overview of modern medical literature on the etiology and pathogenesis of PE. For a more detailed understanding of the pathogenesis, each angiogenesis factor is considered separately, as well as variations in the genes encoding them and the influence of these factors on the development of PE. Purpose - to clarify the causes of PE development, the role of timely diagnosis of genetic polymorphisms and angiogenesis markers for constructing an algorithm for diagnosing and predicting the development of PE. It has been established that the main pathogenetic moment in the development of PE is the lack of reconstruction of the junction of the spiral arteries and the trophoblast, which reflects a defect in deep placentation. This contributes to increased production of vasoconstrictor mediators from the very beginning of pregnancy and their progressive increase with gestational age. This does not allow the formation of adequate uteroplacental bleeding, which leads to relative hypoxia in the trophoblastic tissue, thereby causing oxidative stress of the entire placenta. This phenomenon further compromises placental villous angiogenesis and leads to an imbalance in the production of angiogenic and antiangiogenic growth factors. It has been proven that the presence of polymorphism in the angiogenesis genes worsens the pathomorphological conditions caused by PE. This is due to a genetically programmed decrease in the production of angiogenic factors, which further exacerbates the aforementioned imbalance. That is why a comprehensive genetic examination of a woman at the stage of preconception preparation will make it possible to predict the risks of developing PE. This prognosis will provide the possibility of earlier administration of drugs that can improve the effects of primary placentation and reduce rates of gestational complications and perinatal losses. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.
The effectiveness of preconception preparation in patients after unsuccessful attempts at assisted reproductive technologies against the background of chronic endometritis
Authors:   Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Haiduk A.D.
Published: December 2022

Purpose - to evaluate the effectiveness of the complex preconception preparation in patients after unsuccessful attempts at assisted reproductive technologies (ART) against the background of chronic endometritis. Materials and methods. At the stage of pregnancy planning, we conducted complex preconceptional training for 55 women of reproductive age with chronic endometritis and repeated unsuccessful attempts at ART. These women represented the first main group of the study. The group II (comparison) - 40 women of reproductive age with chronic endometritis and repeated unsuccessful attempts at ART, who did not use the preconception training developed by us. Results. The percentage of pregnancy by determining the level of human chorionic gonadotropin for embryo transfer was 47.2% (26 cases) in the group I versus 34.5% (19 cases) in the group II (p<0.05). In the group I women, such complications of pregnancy as the threat of termination of the first half of pregnancy, the threat of premature birth, preeclampsia, placental dysfunction and the syndrome of fetal growth retardation and gestational anemia were significantly lower compared to women in the group II. Term delivery was observed in 21 (86.0%) of women of the group I, while in pregnant women without preconception preparation, the frequency of delivery on time did not exceed 11 (64.7%), (p<0.05). Caesarean section in both groups, performed in almost half of the examined pregnant women (10 (40.0%) versus 9 (52.9%), respectively, p<0.05), varied significantly depending on the indications for caesarean section. In a planned manner, caesarean section was performed in 9 (90.0%) of cases of pregnant women in the group I and 4 (44.4%) of cases in the group II (p<0.05). Of the 28 newborns from mothers of the group I, full-term children were 23 (92.0%) and 5 (8.0%) were premature, of which 3 were born at gestational times of 33-36 weeks and one of the twins at 28-32 weeks. In the group II, term babies were 14 (70.0%) cases, and 6 (30.0%) cases were premature and all of them were twins: the first twins were born at 24-27 weeks, the second twins were born at 28-32 weeks and the third twin was born at 33-36 weeks (p<0.05). Conclusions. The complex pregravid training in patients after unsuccessful attempts of ART against the background of chronic endometritis had a positive effect on the onset of pregnancy, a favorable course of pregnancy, childbirth in the postpartum period and the condition of newborns in this group of patients. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the author.
Strategi Dakwah Dalam Digitalisasi Ziswaf di Era Pandemi
Authors: Asmar Afidatul , Yuanita Lira
Published: December 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan makna digitalisasi ziswaf, mengidentifikasi dan mendeskripsikan cara kerja ZISWAF digital, dan menganalisis strategi dakwah yang bisa diterapkan kepada masyarakat terkait digitalisasi ziswaf. Metode yang digunakan ialah deskriptif kualitatif. Sumber data diperoleh dari studi literatur kemudian dianalisis dan ditarik kesimpulan. Hasil yang didapatkan dari peneliian ini yaitu bahwa digitalisasi ziswaf atau ziswaf digital merupakan inovasi dari transaksi ZISWAF yang dilakukan secara online melalui aplikasi atau platform tertentu yang bekerjasama dengan BAZNAS. Cara kerjanya seperti praktik transaksi ZISWAF pada umumnya, namun melalui online. Strategi dakwah yang bisa diterapkan untuk meningkatkan literasi masyarakat terkait ziswaf digital antara lain: 1) Strategi Tilawah dengan ceramah atau tulisan yang berisi tentang penjelasan aturan dan hukum transaksi ZISWAF, 2) Strategi Tazkiyah, dengan mengajak seseorang yang kotor jiwanya untuk bertaubat melalui ceramah maupun ESQ, dan 3) Strategi Ta’lim, dengan membuatkan kurikulum pembelajaran bertahap terkait ZISWAF digital. Kesimpulannya ialah bahwa strategi dakwah dapat diterapkan untuk meningkatkan literasi masyarakat terkait digitalisasi ZISWAF
Pengaruh Strategi Diferensiasi Terhadap Keunggulan Bersaing Pada Lazis Muhammadiyah Surabaya
Authors: Jubaidiyah Rani
Published: December 2022

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh strategi diferensiasi terhadap keunggulan bersaing pada LAZIS Muhammadiyah Surabaya. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah penelitian kuantitatif jenis hipotesis asosiatif. Teknik yang digunakan penulis untuk menemukan tujuan tersebut menggunakan uji regresi linier sederhana. Penelitian ini menggunakan metodologi kuantitatif dengan jenis hipotesis asosiatif. Penelitian ini berlokasi di LAZIS Muhammadiyah Surabaya dengan jumlah 40 responden. Hasil penelitian ini membuktikan 1 hipotesa. Hipotsa pertama menunjukkan, bahwa strategi diferensiasi terhadap keunggulan bersaing berpengaruh signifikan dengan nilai ? value 0.000 dan nilai korelasi sebesar 0.744. indikator yang paling dominan adalah diferensiasi produk sebesar 0.750. indikator terendah adalah diferensiasi pelayanan sebesar 0.385. Model regresi digunakan peneliti untuk memprediksi tingkat strategi diferensiasi dengan keunggulan bersaing pada masa yang akan datang. Hal ini dikarenakan nilai Standard Eror of the Estimate (SEE) sebesar 5.634 lebih kecil daripada nilai simpangan baku (Std. Deviation). Nilai Standard Eror of the Estimate (SEE) sebesar 5.634 dan nilai simpangan baku (Std. Deviation) sebesar 8.322.
Dakwah Melalui Ekstrakulikuler : Aktivitas Rohis di SMA Negeri 2 Karimun
Authors: Pipir Romadi  , Siti Norhalida
Published: December 2022

Masa remaja sering dipenuhi dengan berbagai keingin tahuan dari rasa keingin tahuan inilah mereka sanggup mengorbankan harga diri mereka, rasa penasaran yang tidak karuan menyebabkan mereka menjadi salah kaprah pergaulan yang tidak sehat menjadikan mereka remaja yang tidak baik pula, tawuran, pergaulan bebas,narkoba bahkan sampai seks bebas sudah tidak asing lagi kita dengar pada kalangan remaja pada saat ini terkhusnya pada kalangan remaja SMA. Oleh karena itu, dibutuhkan peran dari sekolah dalam membangun akhlak para siswa salah satunya yaitu sebagaimana yang diterapkan di SMAN 2 karimun dengan membentuk ekstrakulikuler rohis dengan berbagai  program pembinaan yaitu melalui kegiatan open house, mabit, rihlah, pertualangan fajar,ngerujak dan juga kajian mingguan.
Use of polyclonal antibodies in brain-dead donors in kidney transplantation
Authors: Kuzmin D. O. , Manukovsky V. A. , Bagnenko S. F. , Reznik O. N. , Ananiev A. N. , Vorobyeva O. A. , Vorobyev S. L. , Gogolev D. V. , Daineko V. S. , Kutenkov A. A. , Chichagova N. A. , Uliankina I. V.
Published: December 2022

Objective. The objective of this study is to develop a therapeutic strategy for protecting grafts in order to improve the efficiency of kidney transplantation (KT) using polyclonal antibodies (pAbs) through elimination of activated forms of neutrophils, chemo- and cytokines from the donor’s bloodstream, and a decrease in the level of expression of adhesion molecules on the renal vascular endothelium at the pre-transplant stage.

Materials and methods. In 2017, we developed and for the first time applied a therapeutic strategy for ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) in a brain-dead donor (BDD). Given the limited time interval after brain death has been diagnosed, Timoglobulin (Sanofi Genzyme, France) was administered to the donor at a dose of 8 mg/kg intravenously for 6 hours. Before drug administration and immediately before the start of cold perfusion, a complete blood count and renal transplant biopsy were performed. The study group included 10 BDDs (mean age 39.3 ± 4.4 years) who received anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG). The comparison group included 10 BDDs (mean age 38.5 ± 4.3 years) who did not undergo the new strategy. Donor kidneys were transplanted to 40 recipients (average age 47.5 ± 4.3 years), who were also divided into 2 groups, depending on the graft received (with and without ATG). At the organ donation center, a biobank of specimens from donors of various categories, including those using the IRI therapeutic strategy and recipients for retrospective assessment of the effectiveness of pAbs, was formed.

Results. Clinical blood test results show that in the ATG group, there was stable leukopenia (neutropenia and lymphopenia) of 1.46 ± 0.18x109/l. Fifteen (75%) recipients of kidneys obtained from donors with ATG had immediate graft function; in the control group – 10 (50%) recipients.

Conclusion. Data obtained testify to the prospects of implementing the proposed strategy in clinical practice, which will improve the quality of the resulting grafts and their suitability for subsequent transplantation, prolong graft functioning due to elimination of leukocytes as a factor of IRI, prevention of early allograft nephropathy, increase in the donor pool by using expanded criteria donors (ECDs).
Сoronary paradox
Authors: Chestukhin V. V. , Blyakhman F. A.
Published: December 2022

This work is a scientific and educational analytical review intended for practicing cardiologists. The purpose of the review is to draw physicians’ attention to the role of myocardial contractility in the regulation of coronary circulation. We consider the fundamental phenomenon of arterial compression (squeezing) in the left ventricular (LV) wall, creating an obstruction to blood flow during cardiac systole. This phenomenon formally resembles functional coronary artery stenosis. Based on a review of the literature, the positive role of arterial compression in coronary hemodynamics is interpreted. Understanding the mechanical relationship between the contractile and coronary systems in the cardiac wall may be useful for practicing physicians when choosing treatment tactics for patients, optimizing LV bypass during heart surgeries, and improving the efficiency of adaptation of the transplanted heart.
Risks and ways of preventing kidney dysfunction in drug-induced immunosuppression in solid organ recipients
Authors: Galeev Sh. R. , Gautier S. V.
Published: December 2022

Immunosuppressive therapy (IMT) is the cornerstone of treatment after transplantation. The goal of immunosuppression is to prevent acute and chronic rejection while maximizing patient survival and long-term graft function. However, the expected effects of IMT must be balanced against the major adverse effects of these drugs and their toxicity. The purpose of this review is to summarize world experience on current immunosuppressive strategies and to assess their effects on renal function.
Current view on radiation-induced heart disease and methods of its diagnosis
Authors: Muratov R. M. , Babenko S. I. , Sorkomov M. N.
Published: December 2022

In recent years, cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons are increasingly encountering radiation-induced heart disease (RIHD) in their practice. This complication is described in literature but is poorly understood and clinically challenging. Radiation therapy (RT) is widely used in the treatment of many cancers. Despite the considerable risk of RT complications, it is used in 20–55% of cancer patients. Radiation-associated cardiotoxicity appears to be delayed, typically 10 to 30 years following treatment. Mediastinal irradiation significantly increases the risk of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. Recent reviews estimate the prevalence of radiation-induced cardiomyopathy at more than 10%. Therefore, it is important to understand the pathophysiology of RIHD, consider risk factors associated with radiation injury, and detect the condition early.
Mechanized lymphatic drainage in acute decompensated heart failure. A study on a hydrodynamic test bench
Authors: Buchnev A. S. , Itkin G. P. , Drobyshev A. A. , Kuleshov A. P. , Esipova O. Yu. , Syrbu A. I.
Published: December 2022

Objective: to investigate the effectiveness of a new mechanized lymphatic drainage method in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) modeling through local reduction in venous pressure in the site of lymphatic drainage from the thoracic duct.

Materials and methods. Main components of the device are a catheter with built-in inlet and outlet mechanical valves designed for insertion into the left brachiocephalic vein through the left internal jugular vein. It comes with an extracorporeal drive system made as a valveless pulsator pump with a 10 ml shock discharge and a controller ensuring preset frequency and pressure/rarefaction duty cycle. The operating principle of the device is based on local reduction of venous pressure in the site of lymphatic drainage from the thoracic duct (in the junction of the left internal jugular and subclavian veins).

Results. When modeling hydrodynamics under ADHF conditions on a hydrodynamic test bench, the upper venous flow through the left brachiocephalic vein was 0.4 l/min, the pressure in the site of lymphatic drainage from the thoracic duct, was decreased from 20–25 mmHg to 0–5 mmHg due to operation of the mechanized drainage device with suction/injection phase duration ratio 0.2/0.8 and pulsator pump operating frequency from 30 to 60 beats/min.
Tissue-engineered vascular patches: comparative characteristics and preclinical test results in a sheep model
Authors: Antonova L. V. , Mironov A. V. , Shabaev A. R. , Silnikov V. N. , Krivkina E. O. , Matveeva V. G. , Velikanova E. A. , Senokosova E. A. , Khanova M. Yu. , Sevostyanova V. V. , Glushkova T. V. , Mukhamadiyarov R. A. , Barbarash L. S.
Published: December 2022

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) with patch angioplasty is the most effective treatment for carotid artery stenosis. However, the use of existing vascular patches is often associated with thrombosis, restenosis, calcification and other complications.

Objective: to develop biodegradable patches for arterial reconstruction, containing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or arginyl-glycyl-aspartic acid (RGD), and comparatively evaluate their biocompatibility and efficacy in in vitro experiments and during preclinical trials in large laboratory animal models.

Materials and methods. Biodegradable patches, made from a mixture of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3- hydroxyvalerate (PHBV) and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), were fabricated by electrospinning and modified with VEGF or the peptide sequence RGD in different configurations. In in vitro experiments, the surface structure, physicomechanical and hemocompatibility properties were evaluated. In in vivo experiments, we evaluated the effectiveness of the developed vascular patches for 6 months after implantation into the carotid artery of 12 sheep. The quality of remodeling was assessed using histological and immunofluorescence studies of explanted specimens.

Results. The PHBV/PCL/VEGF patches had physicomechanical characteristics closer to those of native vessels and their biofunctionalization method resulted in the smallest drop in strength characteristics compared with their unmodified PHBV/PCL counterparts. Modification with RGD peptides reduced the strength of the polymer patches by a factor of 2 without affecting their stress-strain behavior. Incorporation of VEGF into polymer fibers reduced platelet aggregation upon contact with the surface of the PHBV/PCL/VEGF patches and did not increase erythrocyte hemolysis. At month 6 of implantation into the carotid artery of sheep, the PHBV/PCL/ VEGF patches formed a complete newly formed vascular tissue without signs of associated inflammation and calcification. This indicates the high efficiency of the VEGF incorporated into the patch. In contrast, the patches modified with different configurations of RGD peptides combined the presence of neointimal hyperplasia and chronic granulomatous inflammation present in the patch wall and developed during bioresorption of the polymer scaffold.

Conclusion. PHBV/PCL/VEGF patches have better biocompatibility and are more suitable for vascular wall reconstruction than PHBV/PCL/RGD patches.
Steered fiber orientation: correlating orientation and residual tensile strength parameters of SFRC
Authors: Medeghini Filippo , Guhathakurta Jajnabalkya , Tiberti Giuseppe , Simon Sven , Plizzari Giovanni A. , Mark Peter
Published: December 2022

Adding steel fibers to concrete improves the post-cracking tensile strength of the composite material due to fibers bridging the cracks. The residual performance of the material is influenced by fiber type, content and orientation with respect to the crack plane. The latter is a main issue in fiber-reinforced concrete elements, since it significantly influences the structural behavior. The aim of this research is to develop a tailor-made composite material and casting method to orient fibers in order to optimize the performance of the material for structural applications. To this aim, a mechanized concreting device that induces such preferred fiber orientation is designed and fabricated. It uses vibration and a series of narrow channels to guide and orient fibers. A composite with oriented fibers is produced using a hybrid system of macro and micro fibers and high-performance concrete. From the same concrete batch, specimens are cast both with and without the fiber orientation device, obtaining different levels of fiber orientation. Three-point bending tests are performed to measure and compare the residual tensile strength capacities with standard specimens cast according to EN 14651. Elements with favorable fiber orientation show a significant increase in residual tensile strength with respect to the standard beams. Finally, computed tomography and an electromagnetic induction method are employed to better assess the orientation and distribution of fibers in the beams. Their results are in good agreement and enable to link the residual tensile strength parameters with fiber orientation.
Effect of a Corrective Exercise Program Using Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Forward Head and Rounded Shoulders with Ergonomic Intervention in Adolescent Age Group
Authors:   Intern, Department of physiotherapy, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences “Deemed to be” University, Karad, Maharashtra, India., Kumta Saumya , Rayjade Amrutkuvar ,   HOD of Manual Therapy, Department of physiotherapy, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences “Deemed to be” University, Karad, Maharashtra, India., Lakkad Siddhi ,   Intern, Department of physiotherapy, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences “Deemed to be” University, Karad, Maharashtra, India.
Published: December 2022

Background: Due to the current lifestyle of adolescents; their bodies have adapted faulty postures that have caused musculoskeletal changes in the body creating symptomatic problems like pain in neck and upper part of back. The static forward bent posture causes deformity like rounded shoulders and forward head posture. This needs to be corrected as early as possible by stretching and strengthening the muscles around the shoulder girdle. Objectives: To investigate the effects of using proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation to correct forward head and rounded shoulders in adolescent children along with ergonomic intervention. Materials and methodology: An experimental study was conducted at Krishna College of Physiotherapy, Karad. A sample of 40 was selected by convenience sampling conducted over a period of 3 months. The participants were selected on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The interpretation of the study will be done on the basis of comparing pre and post test assessment Result: The results of this study showed the pre and post mean±SD of VAS on rest and activity, OTWT, STWT shows <0.0001 which is extremely significant. Conclusion: This study had a positive effect on adolescent children who had forward head and rounded shoulders and PNF can be used for correcting these along with ergonomic interventions KEY WORDS: PNF, Forward head, Rounded Shoulders, Ergonomics, Adolescents.
Efficacy of Aquatic Therapy and VMO Strengthening in Patellofemoral Arthritis
Authors:   Intern, Department of physiotherapy, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences “Deemed to be” University, Karad, Maharashtra, India., Nikam Supriya , Yadav Trupti Saurabh ,   Assistant Professor, HOD Oncogenic Physiotherapy, Department of Physiotherapy, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences “Deemed to be” University, Karad, Maharashtra, India.
Published: December 2022

Background: Arthritis is inflammation of joints which leads to pain and stiffness that worsens with age. Patellofemoral arthritis affects the underside of the patella and the channel-like groove in the femur that the patella rests in. PFPS is an overuse injury in which anterior knee pain is present. The patient with patellofemoral arthritis has kneecap pain, stiffness and often swelling in the front part of the knee that typically worsens when walking on inclined terrain, climbing stairs, squatting. The patients with patellofemoral arthritis have reduced functional ability due to pain. It is important to increase the strength of Vastus Medialis Oblique Muscle which helps in stabilizing the patella during knee joint movements in order to reduce the pain. Aquatic physical therapy is considered as a safe and effective treatment program for managing knee OA as it contribute to the increase in the pain threshold and it also decreases the joint overload and pain symptoms and improves functionality and quality of life. Objective: To compare the effect of aquatic therapy and Vastus Medialis Oblique strengthening on pain and functional ability in patellofemoral arthritis (PFA). Materials and methods: An experimental study was conducted on total of 30 subjects on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria with 15 subjects in group A for VMO strengthening and 15 subjects in group B for aquatic therapy exercise. Outcome measures used were Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Anterior Knee Pain Scale (AKPS). The protocol was conducted for 5 weeks, 3 days a week. Results: A total of 30 patients between the age of 40-65 years were included. Statistically it shows that there was extremely significant difference (p<0.0001) between pre intervention assessment and post intervention assessment. But the subjects treated with aquatic therapy shows more significant difference than the subjects treated with VMO strengthening program. Conclusion: The present study concludes that the aquatic therapy program is more effective than the VMO strengthening program which showed more reduction in pain and increase in functional ability in PFA. KEY WORDS: Patellofemoral arthritis, Patellofemoral pain syndrome, knee pain, VMO strengthening, Aquatic therapy, Visual Analogue Scale, Anterior Knee Pain Scale.
Relationship Between Thoracic Flexibility and Spinal Curvature During Trunk Extension in Healthy Adults
Authors:   Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Science, Kyoto Tachibana University, 34 Ohyakeyamada-machi, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto-city, Kyoto 607-8175, Japan, Yokoyama Shigeki , Nejishima Makoto ,   Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Seirei Christopher University, Higuchi Takashi ,   Department of Physical Therapy, Osaka University of Human Sciences, Ishino Satoshi ,   Department of Physical Therapy, Ando Clinic
Published: December 2022

Background: Non-specific lower back pain is a common medically and economically impactful condition that affects patients’ quality of life. Purpose: This study aimed to determine the relationship between thoracic expansion and spinal curvature angle during trunk extension in healthy participants. Results: The participants comprised 24 men aged 18–21 years. The measurement items included the lateral and longitudinal diameters of the thorax, measured at the level of the xiphoid process and 10th rib, and spinal curvature angle, measured in the upright posture and trunk extension position. The difference in thoracic expansion levels during trunk extension tended to be greater in the lower thorax than in the upper thorax, with the lateral diameter higher than the longitudinal diameter. The inferior thoracic and lumbar curvatures increased with trunk extension. Regarding the relationship between the difference in thoracic expansion and the amount of change in the spinal curvature, the difference in the expiratory lateral diameter of the lower thorax during trunk extension was positively correlated with the superior thoracic curvature during trunk extension. Conclusions: These results indicate that expansion of the lower thoracic lateral diameter increased the thoracic curvature during trunk extension exercises. Consequently, the lumbar curvature may be suppressed. Reduced lower thorax flexibility may enhance lumbar curvature during trunk extension. Therefore, flexibility of the lower lateral thoracic diameter may be a factor when preventing lower back pain. KEY WORDS: Thorax, Lateral Diameter, Longitudinal Diameter, Trunk Extension, Chest Griping.
Functional Capacity Among Healthy Young Females of Saudi Arabia Using 1 Min Sit-To-Stand Test – A Cross Sectional Study
Authors:   Lecturer, Department of Physical Therapy, Jazan university, Saudi Arabia., Balasubramanian Karthick , Qasheesh Mohammed ,   Assitant professor, Department of Physical Therapy, Jazan university, Saudi Arabia., Sanjeevi Ramya Ramasamy ,   Lecturer, Department of Physical Therapy, Jazan university, Saudi Arabia., Saegh Shahad Fahad Yahya ,   Physical Therapy Intern, Department of Physical Therapy, Jazan university, Saudi Arabia., Mohammed Debajey Dalal Mohammed Mousa ,   Physical Therapy Intern, Department of Physical Therapy, Jazan university, Saudi Arabia.
Published: December 2022

Background: Functional capacity of an individual is denoting their physical fitness which can be assessed using 6-minute walk test, 1min sit-to stand test etc. The objectives of our study are to assess the functional capacity of healthy young females of Saudi Arabia using 1 min STS and to investigate the relationship between age, height, weight, heart rate, rate of perceived exertion with 1 min STS test. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 52 young healthy females of Saudi Arabia from 18 to 30 years of age were participated. Results: Fifty-seven participants were voluntarily enrolled for this study, 5 were excluded and totally fifty-two participants were involved in this study. The average repetitions of 1 min sit-to-stand is 38 reps/min. The Pearson correlation analysis indicated that there is a weak and negative correlation between 1 min STS test repetitions and age (r=0.142 p=0.311) height, (r=0.122 p=0.39) and weight (r=0.297 p < 0.05). Weak, positive and significant correlation was observed between HR (T1), percentage of MHR (T1) and 1 min STS test repetitions with (r=0.303 p<0.05, r=0.282 p<0.05) respectively. There was a weak and positive correlation between 1 min STS test and Modified Borg scale (T1) (r=0.167, p=0.238). Conclusion: This study highlights the difference in performances of 1 min STS test between Saudi population and Western countries. The functional capacity of young adult Saudi females is reduced when compared to the western counterpart. This could be because of high prevalence of physical inactivity. KEY WORDS: 1 Min Sit-To-Stand Test, Functional Capacity, Physical Activity, Young Females.
Did Islamic Law Cause Islamic Civilization to Decline?
Authors: Topal Ahmet
Published: December 2022

The question of why Islamic ‘civilization’ declined, and the theories proposed to provide an answer to that question constitute a significant topic of discussion within the field of Islamic studies. This paper focuses on one of the theories advanced to deal with this important question, a theory which claims that ‘the all-embracing Islamic law was one of the primary causes behind Islamic civilization’s decline and its inability to revive’. In an effort to scrutinize the integrity of this theory as it is presented by Saunders, the present work analyzes relevant literature. This paper finds that such a theory relies heavily on certain assumptions of 18th and 19th century Orientalists. Most importantly, it argues that such a theory is self-contradictory because if it was Islamic law that caused the decline of Islamic ‘civilization,’ it could have not allowed it to rise in the first place.
Gazâlî’de Dünya Kavramı Bağlamında Sosyal Hayat: Zâhidâne Yaşam Açısından Hem İmkân Hem Tehlike
Authors: Karakoyunluoğlu Ali
Published: December 2022

Bu makalede Gazâlî’nin, toplum hayatı ile zühd hayatı arasındaki ilişkiye dair düşüncelerinin tespit ve tahlili amaçlanmıştır. Bunun için ağırlıklı olarak başvurduğumuz metinler, İhyâü ulûmi’d-dîn’in yirmi altıncı bölümü olan Zemmü’d-dünya ile yine İhyâ’nın otuz dördüncü bölümünü oluşturan el-Fakr ve’z-zühd’dür. Dünyanın hâricî varlıklardan ibaret olmadığını düşünen Gazâlî, hâricî varlıklardan elde edilen haz ve uğraşıları da dünya kavramına dâhil etmektedir. Bundan Gazâlî’nin dünyaya, hem kendisi açısından hem de kul açısından olmak üzere temelde iki açıdan yaklaştığı anlaşılmaktadır. Onun uğraşılar ile kastettiği, sosyal hayatı mümkün kılan zorunluluklardan saydığı zanâat ve mesleklerdir. Öte yandan Gazâlî, bütün bu zanâat ve meslekleri, icracılarının manevî hayatları açısından zararlı bir uğraşı olarak görmektedir. Ne var ki toplumun selameti için söz konusu zarara göz yumulması gerekmektedir. Aksi takdirde toplum, zayıflayıp çökecek ve bundan zâhidler de zarar görecektir. Bu bakımdan Gazâlî’nin, sosyal hayatı, dinî açıdan zanâatkârlar gibi üyeleri için olumsuz, zâhidler gibi üyeleri için ise olumlu bir durum olarak gördüğü söylenebilir.
C5aR1 shapes a non-inflammatory tumor microenvironment and mediates immune evasion in gastric cancer
Authors: Shen Honghong , Gu Xianhua , Li Xinwei , Xiang Zheng , Zhang Rong , Shi Fan , Tang Mingyue , Li Huiyuan , Zhu Guangzheng , Su Fang , Wang Zishu
Published: December 2022

C5a receptor 1 (C5aR1) is associated with various inflammatory processes, the pathogenesis of immune diseases, and tumor growth. However, its role in the tumor microenvironment of gastric cancer (GC) remains unclear. In this study, the expression of C5aR1 in GC and normal gastric mucosa tissues was compared using data retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases, and the results were validated by in vitro qRT-PCR and immunohistochemical analyses. The relationship between C5aR1 expression and the overall survival of patients with GC was analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier method. Subsequently, enrichment analysis was performed, and the signaling pathways were screened. C5aR1 expression was also correlated with genes related to the immune checkpoint and immune cell infiltration. The results revealed that C5aR1 expression was enhanced in GC tissues compared to normal gastric tissues, and that patients with high expression of C5aR1 had a worse 10-year overall survival compared to those showing low expression of C5aR1. Functional analysis revealed that C5aR1 is a gene related to theimmune system and may play a crucial role in inflammatory and tumor immune responses. Additionally, C5aR1 showed a positive correlation with most immune checkpoint-related genes and a negative correlation with natural killer cells, dendritic cells, and CD8+ T cells. Immune evasion risk was observed to be significantly greater in patients with higher expression of C5aR1 than in those with lower expression. The results of this study reveal that C5aR1 shapes a non-inflammatory tumor microenvironment in GC and mediates immune evasion.
Mediterranean red coral as a spawning ground for cuttlefish
Authors: Federica Maggioni , Lorenzo Bramanti
Published: December 2022

The Mediterranean red coral (Corallium rubrum) is a long-lived and slow-growing gorgonian, which suffered intense exploitation due to its precious calcium carbonate skeleton used in jewelry and traded worldwide [1].
Melissopalynology: The Louveaux method on honey samples in the marche region and their allergenic potential
Authors: Nadia Trobiani , Silvia Bartolacci
Published: December 2022

The research arises from the interest in investigating the pollen contained in the various honey samples analyzed to identify its geographical and botanical origin and to evaluate its allergenic potential. With the Louveaux method, the pollen content shall be observed under a microscope using the same procedure as the aerobiological analysis described in national and European standards. From the microscopic observation of the pollen grains, it is possible to identify the plants that produced them, thus going back to a particular type of vegetation that distinguishes the production area. The percentage values for pollen of nectariferous plants identified have been calculated to establish frequency classes and dominant species. Starting from an exploratory analysis, the results obtained with melissopalynology provide assessments that, combined with sensory and physical analysis, represent a useful control tool to address the growing trend of food fraud as an element of consumer choice. By comparing the percentages of the pollen taxa contained in the honey analyzed with those reported in the characterization cards, it was possible to verify the conformity to the declared botanical origin. The samples were analyzed in duplicate to reduce operator uncertainty and to ensure the identification of the largest number of species/families present and the recognition of botanical families. The results provided a clear picture of a first assessment of the conformity of the reference values; in general, most of the samples examined, both those taken on the market and those of local producers, are in line with the data obtained. Bibliographical research on cross allergies related to the presence of pollen in honey has established that allergic forms to honey are still a rare condition and the incidence does not exceed 0.001%. Studying the few reported cases worldwide, it is difficult to say that pollen proteins are the only and directly responsible for the allergic manifestations that follow the ingestion of honey; however, if we wanted to attribute the responsibility, we could refer in particular to Compositae pollens, such as mugwort, ragweed, and dandelion. This work, while identifying many possible triggers for allergic reactions, has detected a very low number of cases of ingestion of honey; therefore, the study can be a starting point to investigate the allergenic potential.
Modified Promega Wizard Extraction for Barcoding Macrofungi v1
Authors: Douglas Russell Stephen
Published: December 2022

This protocol is best used when preparing macrofungal specimens for Sanger sequencing or as a secondary extraction protocol for ONT nanopore barcoding.