bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of ABO Blood Group Homozygous and Heterozygous Alpha Thalassemia on the Severity of Falciparum Malaria in India
Authors: Hati Jagannath , Oram Gouri , Karua Purna Chandra
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND Malaria is a global health burden. About 300 - 500 million people suffer from the disease every year, out of whom, about 1 million succumb.1 This study was undertaken, as there has been no such study regarding the possible effect of - thalassemia and ABO blood group in Indian population on falciparum malarial infection. METHODS This is an observational study carried on in all malarial patients admitted in the Department of General Medicine, VSS Medical College & Hospital, Burla, between October 2008 - September 2010. Inclusion criteria: (i) Fever with positive asexual forms of falciparum malarial parasites [thick smear, thin smear, positive quantitative buffy coat (QBC), ICT test]. (ii) WHO criteria for severe falciparum malaria2 . “Controls”: Healthy persons of about same age, sex, ethnicity and locality. Exclusion Criteria: Blood transfusion within 3 months, cases of DM, CKD, hepatitis, SCD, tuberculosis, HIV, chronic liver disease, and COPD. RESULTS 128 cases of malaria, between 15 - 75 years, both sexes, pregnant / non-pregnant were included in the study. For control, the gene frequencies were  /  29 (45.3 %),  3.7 /  27 (42.2 %) and 3.7 / 3.7 8 (12.5 %). For cases, it was found 33 (51.56 %), 25 (39.1 %) and 6 (9.4 %) respectively. In HPLC, HbA0 values of 3.7 / 3.7 (81.83  10) were >  /  (77.11  21.6) >  3.7 / , (64.8 ± 32.42), HbA2 values of  /  (2.1  1.4) >  3.7 /  (1.8 ± 0.8) > 3.7 / 3.7 (1.43  0.27). In HbF, there were nearly same number of cases in all three variants and were negligible in HbS. Anaemia, jaundice, oliguria were the predominant causes of morbidity in alpha thalassaemic patients with severe falciparum malaria. Blood group A patients had significantly higher morbidity than blood group B, AB and O. CONCLUSIONS The percentage of anaemia, coma, convulsion and death was significantly less in homozygous alpha thalassemia cases in comparison to normal alpha thalassemia and heterozygous alpha thalassemia. Above features were also found to be significantly less in blood group O patients, and significantly high in blood group A patients, when compared to other blood groups. Prevalence of heterozygous and homozygous -thalassemia was lower in cases in comparison to controls. MCV was significantly lower in homozygous alpha thalassemia patients in comparison to other genotypes of alpha thalassemia. Anaemia, jaundice, coma, shock, oliguria, being the major co-morbidity conditions, should be detected and treated early. KEYWORDS Severe falciparum Malaria, ABO Blood Group, Homozygous & Heterozygous, -Thalassemia
A Comparative Study of Efficacy of Alcaftadine 0.25 % and Olopatadine 0.2 % in Allergic Conjunctivitis
Authors: Sen Snigdha , Yadav Himanshu Kumar , Singh Prerana
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND Allergic conjunctivitis is one of the commonly found clinical conditions in ophthalmology practice. Diagnostic features consist of itching, redness and swelling of conjunctiva. Cornea is rarely involved. The physiologic basis of allergy is mast cell degranulation releasing histamine and other pro-inflammatory mediators. Mast cells release histamine which is responsible for early acute phase of allergies and pro-inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins, leukotrienes etc. which are responsible for the late phase. Activation of H1 receptors on conjunctival neurons causes itching while that of H1 and H2 receptors on vascular endothelium is responsible for vasodilation (appearing as redness) and endothelial swelling. Itching and inflammation are caused by response of H4 receptors on immune and inflammatory cells. Olopatadine is an H1 receptor antagonist and mast cell mediator release inhibitor. It is available as 0.1 % formulation used twice daily, and 0.2 % and 0.7 % formulations, both used once daily. Alcaftadine has high affinity and specificity for H1 and H2 receptors, and moderate affinity for the H4 receptors. It is an inverse agonist of H1, H2 and H4 receptors and also acts as mast cell stabiliser. Thus, antihistaminic effect relieves the early phase and mast cell stabilisation relieves the late phase of ocular allergic response. Both have become the most important therapy for allergic conjunctivitis. METHODS This was a prospective, observer-masked, single centre clinical trial conducted at outpatient department of ophthalmology, S.N. Medical College, Agra, from February 2018 to July 2019. Subjects with allergic conjunctivitis (n = 136) were registered for a prospective study and followed up for two weeks. Subjects were randomised using computer generated random number tables into one of the two treatment groups: alcaftadine 0.25 % eye drop and olopatadine 0.2 % eye drop. In this study, efficacy of the drug was taken as mean reduction in severity score of the subjects evaluated at one week and two weeks follow up. RESULTS Patients treated with alcaftadine 0.25 % eye drop showed comparatively early alleviation of signs and symptoms in comparison to patients treated with olopatadine 0.2 % eye drop. Alcaftadine 0.25 % treated subjects experienced significantly higher mean reduction in severity score than olopatadine 0.2 % treated subjects at every follow up visit; after 1 week (p = 0.0205) and after 2 weeks (p = 0.0475). No adverse effects were reported with either drug. CONCLUSIONS Once daily alcaftadine 0.25 % eye drop showed higher efficacy than once daily olopatadine 0.2 % eye drop in relieving signs and symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis at both one week and two weeks follow up. Both treatment arms were found to be safe and effective. KEYWORDS Allergic conjunctivitis, Olopatadine, Alcaftadine
A Cross Sectional Study on Risk Factors, Clinical Profile and Aetiology of Acute Pyelonephritis in a Tertiary Teaching Hospital in Kerala
Authors: P.K. Mohammed Shafi , P Rosh
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND Acute pyelonephritis (APN) is one of the most severe forms of urinary tract infections (UTI) with a higher incidence among females compared to males. Escherichia coli is the commonest causative organism isolated in 80 % of the cases in Kerala. Risk factors like structural or functional abnormalities of urogenital system, immunosuppression, comorbidities and virulence & resistance of microorganism play vital roles in predicting the prognosis. Our aim was to study the prevalence of various risk factors of acute pyelonephritis in adult patients, the clinical profile, aetiological agents and their sensitivity to antibiotics, and related complications on their usage. METHODS In a cross-sectional observational study, 100 adult patients with acute pyelonephritis admitted in a tertiary teaching hospital in Kerala were studied between January 2016 and January 2017. Detailed history and clinical examination were carried out. Complete haemogram, random blood sugar, renal function test, urine culture and sensitivity, and ultrasonogram of abdomen and pelvis were done. RESULTS The most common age group was 40 - 49 years with a male to female ratio of 2:3. Dysuria was observed in 82 % of patients followed by increased frequency of micturition in 65 % and vomiting in 42 %. Diabetes mellitus was observed in 55 % of patients and recurrent UTI in 44 %. Escherichia coli was found in 66 % of patients followed by Klebsiella in 23 %. Culture showed that 85 % of the bacteria were sensitive to piperacillin-tazobactam. 44 % of the patients did not respond to the empirical antibiotic, and the failure rate was higher among those empirically treated with ciprofloxacin. 41 % of the patients developed acute kidney injury, which necessitated haemodialysis in 23 %. 14 % of the patients developed septic shock and the mortality was 10 %. CONCLUSIONS Certain risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease and indwelling catheters were associated with increased incidence of complications. Hence, in presence of such risk factors appropriate treatment and preventive measures should be initiated promptly. Among the pathogens, 85 % of the organisms were sensitive to piperacillin–tazobactam. Hence, piperacillintazobactam can be recommended as the first line empirical antibiotic. KEYWORDS Acute Pyelonephritis, Urinary Tract Infection, Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), and E. coli
Prevalence of Coexisting Endometrial Carcinoma in Patients with Preoperative Diagnosis of Endometrial Hyperplasia with Atypia
Authors: Raju Divya Sara , Raveendran Resmy C. , Manivannan Ayswariya
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND Concurrent carcinoma endometrium occurs in around 40 % of hysterectomy specimen done for premalignant endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia. We intend to study the prevalence of coexisting endometrial cancer in patients who were diagnosed with endometrial hyperplasia with atypia and had undergone hysterectomy. METHODS This cross-sectional study conducted at Government Medical College, Thrissur, included all women with a pre-operative diagnosis of endometrial hyperplasia with atypia (WHO) undergoing hysterectomy during the study period. RESULTS A total of 40 women were found to have atypical endometrial hyperplasia in the study period. The mean age of presentation was 51 ± 2. 7 yrs. and was more common in multiparous postmenopausal women. Postmenopausal bleeding was the most common presenting symptom and more than 50 % of women were overweight. The proportion of concurrent endometrial carcinoma in women with atypical endometrial hyperplasia was found to be 37. 5 %. 93 % of cases with concurrent endometrial carcinoma were of grade I endometrioid type. High risk features were defined as > 50 % myometrial invasion, seen in 47 % patients. Stage 2 endometrial carcinoma was seen in 27 % patients. 53 % patients had less than 50 % myometrial invasion. Stage 1a and 1b endometrial carcinoma was seen in 53 % and 20 % of patients respectively. CONCLUSIONS Large dicer of overlap exists between atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) and early-stage endometrial carcinoma. Therefore, we should recognise the limitation of endometrial sampling in distinguishing between these two groups. KEYWORDS Atypical Endometrial Hyperplasia, Endometrial Carcinoma, Endometrial Sampling
Utility of Urine Cytology in Genitourinary Lesions and Implication of Paris System in the Diagnosis of Urothelial Carcinoma - Five Years of Experience from a Tertiary Care Centre at North Karnataka
Authors: Ranade Ranjana Shashidhar , Kori Netra Prakash , Athanikar Vidisha Sharatchandra
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND Urine cytology when combined with cystoscopy remains a gold standard in screening and surveillance of urothelial carcinoma. Paris system for reporting urine cytology (PSRUC) gives seven well defined diagnostic criteria. We aimed to analyse utility of urine cytology in patients with urogenital symptoms, compare existing institutional system (EIS) with PSRUC and assess the performance of both reporting systems in predicting subsequent high-grade urothelial carcinoma on histopathology. METHODS A five year retrospective study included a total of 146 urine samples from 74 patients. Each case was assigned a category according to both EIS and PSRUC system. After cyto-histological correlation, sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of urine cytology in detecting malignancy using PSRUC and EIS were determined. Performance of urine cytology in predicting subsequent high grade urothelial carcinoma (HGUC) was assessed for both reporting systems. RESULTS PSRUC resulted in reduction in number of cases assigned to atypical category (10.5 % vs. 3.4 %) and increase in low grade carcinomas assigned to NGUC category (66 % vs. 100 %). Positive predictive value (PPV) for predicting subsequent high grade urothelial carcinoma for HGUC and SHGUC category remained the same (100 %). Sensitivity (66.67 % vs. 55.5 %), specificity (100 % vs. 85.71 %) and diagnostic accuracy (81 % vs. 68.75 %) was improved with application of PSRUC when compared to EIS. Two cases of genitourinary tuberculosis were diagnosed. CONCLUSIONS PSRUC improves predictive accuracy of subsequent high-grade urothelial carcinoma on histopathology and it ensures uniformity in reporting. Judicious use of urine cytology might aid in early diagnosis of infectious conditions like tuberculosis. KEYWORDS PSRUC, Urine Cytology, High Grade Urothelial Carcinoma
Surgical Site Infections in Abdominal Surgeries - A Clinicopathological Prospective Study
Authors: Mohapatra Biswaranjan , Padhihari Dipesh Kumar , Das Mrutynjay , Sunkara Sai Barath , Sahajada Saikh Kasif
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND Surgical site infection still remains a nightmare for most surgeons even in these times despite many advances in medical science, surgical techniques & better operating room environment. Surgical site infection (SSI) is defined as ‘an infection occurring within 30 days of a surgery (or within 1 year if an implant is left in place after procedure) and affecting either incision or deep tissues at the operation site. METHODS A single observer, cross sectional, prospective study was carried out in the Dept. of General Surgery, in collaboration with Microbiology & Pathology Departments of Hi-tech Medical College and Hospital, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The study included all patients who underwent laparotomy during the period of study, patients of all age groups except neonates and patients with post-operative surgical site infections. RESULTS The prospective study involved culture and sensitivity of 114 patients undergoing clean-contaminated surgeries (group A), contaminated-surgeries (group B) in the Department of Surgery at our institute. The study shows that the maximum number of cases were between 21 to 60 yrs. of age. (78 %) and the mean age in the group A was 39.2 years while in group B, it was 39.8 years. There was a total of 90 patients between 21 - 60 yrs. of age. Mean hospital stay in group A was 5.7 days and group B was 8.9 days. The sex ratio is quite evenly matched, 63 male patients and 51 female patients out of 114 cases. Amongst the 114 subjects, group A comprised of 58.77 % (67) while group B consisted of 41.22 % (47.13) patients. Out of 67, 13 from group A came back as sterile, in group B sterile samples were 10. CONCLUSIONS This study concludes that age, sex, class of wound, peri-operative management, operating time and co-morbidities of the patient, all have a significant effect on the incidence of surgical site infections. KEYWORDS Surgical Site Infection, Laparotomy, Purulent Discharge, Drain
Evaluation of Bacteriological Profile in Active Mucosal Chronic Otitis Media - A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: B Smitha , U.P Swapna , K Salilkumar
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND Active mucosal chronic otitis media (COM) is a disease of the middle ear cleft associated with inflammation and production of pus. The incidence is high in developing countries. It affects all age groups and both genders. If not properly treated, it can lead to complications. The bacterial isolates and their sensitivity pattern vary from place to place and also over time. Early identification of the microorganisms and their antibiotic sensitivity patterns helps in proper selection of antibiotics and quick recovery in COM patients. METHODS Fifty patients with active mucosal COM were selected for the study. The study was conducted over a period of one year. Ear swab from the deep external auditory canal was collected under strict aseptic precautions from these patients before starting antibiotic treatment. Microorganisms were identified by gram staining, growth on different agar plates, and various biochemical tests. Antibiotic sensitivity was done by the Kirby-Bauer method. RESULTS Majority of the patients were in the age group of 21 - 40 years (42 %) with female preponderance (62 %). All patients had a central perforation in the tympanic membrane (100 %). Bacterial growth was seen in 44 samples (88 %). Two samples (4 %) showed fungal growth. Four samples (8 %) showed no growth even after 48 hours of incubation. Single bacterium was isolated in 41 cases (82 %) whereas 3 samples (6 %) showed more than one bacterial growth. The predominant bacteria were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (50 %) followed by Staphylococcus aureus. The other isolates were coagulase negative staphylococci, enterococci, enterobacter, acinetobacter, and E coli. Pseudomonas showed maximum sensitivity to amikacin, imipenem and piperacillin / tazobactam (100 %). The most effective antibiotics for staphylococcus was vancomycin and linezolid. CONCLUSIONS The most common bacteria isolated in active mucosal COM were pseudomonas followed by Staphylococcus aureus. The most effective antibiotics for pseudomonas was amikacin, imipenem and piperacillin / tazobactam. Staphylococcus showed maximum sensitivity to vancomycin and linezolid. KEYWORDS Chronic Otitis Media (COM), Active Mucosal, Ear Swab, Bacteriology, Sensitivity
Coagulation Abnormalities in Covid-19 Positive Patients at Covid Hospital of Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences, Hassan
Authors: Udasimath Shivakumarswamy , K.R Nagesha , H.K. Kumar Naik , R Puruhotham
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND Throughout the world, millions of people are affected by corona virus disease 2019 (Covid-19). 16 % of infected Covid-19 people may need hospitalisation. Patients with severe respiratory or systemic manifestations are at increased risk of venous thromboembolism. Thrombocytopenia, elevated D-Dimer, prolonged prothrombin time, and features of disseminated intravascular coagulation laboratory findings are included in initial reports on Covid-19 patients’ blood samples. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted at pathology laboratory, Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences, Hassan, between June 01, 2020 to August 29, 2020. 4096 patients’ blood samples with Covid-19 positivity in Covid Hospital of Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences, Hassan, were analysed in detail and statistical reports were derived from the fresh samples for platelet count, prothrombin time and D-Dimer. The results were compared with severity of infection. RESULTS Analysis of 4096 Covid-19 blood sample results, revealed significant abnormal mean values in critical cases for platelet count in which it was severely decreased (35,000 cells / cumm), prothrombin time was prolonged for more than 180 seconds and D-Dimer values were 3.74 microgram per ml. CONCLUSIONS As the pandemic is spreading, we highlight the importance of laboratory and clinical findings of coagulation disorders in Covid-19 infected patients. To prevent death of Covid-19 infected patients, noticing the laboratory findings related to coagulation will help in early detection of critical patients. This is very important for relevant treatment and may prevent mortality in Covid-19 infected patients. KEYWORDS Coagulation, Coronavirus, Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), Prothrombin Time, Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
Influence of different agroecological conditions of southern Russia on quality indicators of raw milk
Authors: Gorlov I. F. , Slozhenkina M. I. , Mishina O. Y. , Karpenko E. В. , Mosolova N. I.
Published: January 2021

Aim. To demonstrate the high adaptive abilities of dairy cattle to various ecosystems and natural zones of the Lower Volga at different times of the year. For the study we selected farms located in the steppe and semi-desert natural zones of the Volgograd region where animals of different breeds are reared.Material and Methods. Analysis was undertaken of the main indicators of raw milk quality, amino acid composition and environmental safety. Animals of all farms studied showed fairly high indicators of milk productivity in the climatic conditions of the Volgograd region, according to the standards of the breeds investigated.

Results. The content of essential amino acids in cow milk for all groups varied depending on the breed and period of the year, generally reaching maximum values in winter. The calculation of amino acid scores showed that lysine is a limiting amino acid in animals of the Holstein-Friesian breed in the summer and autumn periods of lactation. The determination of chemical elements in milk during the summer period of lactation showed that all indicators are within acceptable concentrations, including heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury).Conclusion. The research conducted confirms compliance of raw milk with standards in all farms studied for the main controlled indicators of quality and amino acid composition, content of chemical elements and allows recommendation of the milk produced for the production of all types of dairy and fermented milk products.
The use of index images for decoding the vegetation cover of inner mountain Dagestan, Russia
Authors: Radzhabova R. T. , Alekseenko N. A. , Kuramagomedov B. M. , Tazhudinova Z. Sh. , Sultanov Z. M.
Published: January 2021

Aim. Selection and analysis of index images suitable for deciphering the vegetation cover in the conditions of inner mountain Dagestan.Methods. The study was carried out on the basis of multi-temporal satellite images of high spatial resolution, obtained by the imaging system of the Sentinel-2 series satellite, using methods of digital processing of geoimages. Processing was carried out using the capabilities of the Google Earth Engine geoservice.Results. Multi-temporal index images were obtained for the territory of inner mountain Dagestan. The time series of seasonal changes in the indices (NDVI, SAVI, EVI) were analyzed, making it possible to reveal the phenological patterns of vegetation and to map the vegetation cover on this basis. Schemes for decoding vegetation have been created by which areas are distinguished according to the following characteristics: devoid of vegetation, herbaceous vegetation of varying degrees of density or woody (deciduous and coniferous).Conclusion. When studying vegetation cover using index images in a range of natural conditions, it is necessary to take into account the natural features of the territory, as well using additional sources of spatial information including field research methods.
Influence of the quality of drinking water supply sources on the formation of the ecologically-dependent pathology of the population of the Republic of Dagestan
Authors: Daudova M. G. , Bagomedova R. B. , Bekshokov K. K. , Medzhidova M. M. , Nakhibashev S. M. , Bekshokova P. A. , Gasangadzhieva A. G.
Published: January 2021

Aim. Study of the influence of drinking water quality on the ecologically-dependent morbidity of the population of the Republic of Dagestan.Material and Methods. Methods of current and retrospective analysis of regional health indicators and methods of mathematical-statistical and medical-geographical analysis were used. Statistical processing of the results was carried out using the STATISTICA and Excel software packages. When carrying out laboratory studies on the quality of drinking water, we used a Lumex atomic absorption spectrometer "MGA-915MD".Results. Numerous hygiene studies indicate the direct impact of unsatisfactory drinking water quality on the health of a population. The relationship between sanitary and chemical indicators and the incidence rate for a number of nosological forms has been proven. It is generally accepted that human health is influenced by lifestyle factors (working, living and relaxation conditions), heredity and the ecological condition of the area of residence, including the quality of drinking water. Although it is not possible to differentiate the share of the negative effect caused by the consumption of poor quality drinking water but the incidence of certain nosological forms (cancer of the esophagus, gastrointestinal tract and kidney diseases) in the those regions of the Republic of Dagestan under consideration correlates with the characteristics of drinking water.Conclusion. The problem of pollution of water supply sources for the population in the dynamics of the long-term remains a priority concern. The quality and safety of drinking water are decreasing, which cannot but have a negative impact on public health. Correlation linkages between indicators of drinking water quality and oncological morbidity of the population were also established in indicators below the maximum permissible concentrations, which corresponds to a typical logistic model of causal relationships and serves as evidence of the high dependence of health disorders on chemical contamination of water supply sources.
Intramural Valves of Lymphatic Capillaries of Intestinal Villi in Rats
Authors: Kashin A. D. , Dimov I. D. , Zdorikova M. A. , Sesorova I. S. , Karelina N. R. , Mironov A. A.
Published: January 2021

The article highlights a complex of interendothelial connections of the lymphatic capillary of the rat intestinal villi, and focuses on the path of chylomicron transport through the lymphatic capillary wall after lipid loading.

Material and methods. An experimental model was used to exclude a high lipid load; chymus from do- nor rats was injected with a syringe into the initial section of the small intestine in 10 Wistar rats. Chymus was collected from the initial section of the small intestine of donor animals 60 min after oral administration of 1.5 ml of corn oil. The control group consisted of the animals exposed to 12-hour fasting. The material was studied using transmission electron microscopy.

Results. It was shown that most often cells are connected by tile-like (66±2.2%) or simple finger-like (27±2.4%) contacts, reinforced with a tight connection and a point adhesive (at the extreme point of contact). An- chor filaments located on the basal surface of endothelial cells at some distance from the extreme contact point “fixed” the lymphatic capillary wall, ensuring its stretching, changing the pressure inside the capillary and opening the valve. Under low lipid load, the main transport pathway of lipids from the interstitium of the intestinal villus to the lumen of the lymphatic capillary was through adhesive intercellular contacts. No chylomicrons were found in the lumen of plasmolemmal vesicles and kidneys. Caveolae in the endothelial cells of the lymphatic capillary, both after lipid loading and in hungry animals, were few. Caveolosomes were rare in both groups. Under low lipid load, no fusion of vesicles with the formation of transendothelial canals was found.

Conclusions. The detected structure of contacts of the lymphatic capillary endothelium morphologically substantiates the hypothesis of the regulated resorption of interstitial fluid and macromolecules into the lumen of the lymphatic capillary.
Comprehensive Assessment of the Knee Joint Structures in Young Men and Men of the First Period of Adulthood Using Sonography
Authors: Udochkina L. A. , Grinberg E. B. , Galushko T. G.
Published: January 2021

The aim of the study was to comprehensively assess the structure of the knee joint in young men and men of the first period of adulthood with normosthenic constitution using the ultrasonography technique.

Material and methods. V.V. Bunak anthropometry technique (1941), B.A. Nikityuk and V.P. Chtetsov somatotyping (1990) and clinical examination of patients were used to form study groups, 25 people each with Pignet index from 17 to 23 without chronic diseases and pathology of the knee joint. Complex ultrasound examination was performed using ultrasound scanners "Sonoline G-60", Siemens (Germany), and Aloka 5500 Pro-Sound (Japan) with a linear transducer, 10 MHz frequency, and a convex transducer, 3.5 MHz frequency, in Ortho, Carotid and Abdomen modes with the "ZOOM" function. Morphometry was carried out using reference points. The obtained data were statistically processed by methods of variation statistics with a significance level of P≤0.05.

Results. There was detected a significant increase in the transverse and vertical dimensions of the condyles of the femur, and an increase in the thickness of the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments in men of the first period of adulthood compared with the young men. The articular cartilage tended to restructure, this was manifested in thinning of its hypoechoic component and thickening of the hyperechoic component; the appearance of surface defects was more pronounced on the tibia. Ultrasound examination did not reveal age-related changes in the menisci of the knee joint, patellar ligaments and collateral ligaments.

Conclusion. Ultrasound examination of the knee joint in young men and men of the first period of adulthood allowed establishing age-related transformations of the condyles of the femur, cruciate ligaments and articular cartilage.
Tryptase Profile of the Rat Skin Mast Cell Population During the Wound Healing
Authors: Shishkina V. V. , Klochkova S. V. , Alexeeva N. T. , Soboleva M. Yu. , Esaulenko D. I. , Antakova L. N. , Gerasimova O. A. , Samodurova N. Yu. , Samoilenko T. V.
Published: January 2021

Mast cells cyclically synthesize and excrete a wide range of biogenesis products with different biological activities into the extracellular matrix and are regulators of local homeostasis both in normal conditions and in pathology – inflammation, oncogenesis, etc. The relative specificity of classical histochemical methods for detecting mast cells in relation to chromogenic to substrates causes certain difficulties in the selective study of the components of the secretome of mast cells, for example, heparin, histamine, chymase or tryptase. Therefore, immunomorphological techniques have become very popular, which identify specific substrates and allow differentiation of the components of the mast cell secretome. Mediators produced by mast cells promote neoangiogenesis, fibrillogenesis and re-epithelialization during the repair process.

The aim of our work was to study the tryptase profile of the mast cell population of rat skin during the wound processusing an original combined method of immunohistochemical staining.

Material and methods. The experiment involved 12 Wistar rats divided into two groups – intact (n=6) and with the existing wound process of the skin in the withers (n=6). The tryptase profile of mast cells was assessed on the 7th day of the wound process in comparison with the control group.

Results. The results obtained showed a significant increase in the number of tryptase-positive mast cells on the 7th day of the wound process in the skin against the background of a general increase in the population of mast cells. Intragranular tryptase reserve was significantly increased. In contrast to the control, where mast cells with single tryptase-positive granules dominated, during the wound process, cells of this type were practically not detected in the skin (43.69±2.9% and 8.55±0.9%). The content of tryptase-positive mast cells with complete filling of the cytoplasm in the control group and the group of animals with a wound process was 14.24±1.2% and 38.03±2.9%, respectively.

Conclusion. Thus, when modeling a wound, an increase in tryptase synthesis is detected both in individual MCs and within the entire MC population. This fact indicates that mast cell proteases can become a potential therapeutic target for improving wound regeneration by correcting immunogenesis, inflammation and fiber formation.
Aprendizaje automático para detección de problemas cognitivos: una revisión de la literatura
Authors: Rodriguez Guillermo , Díaz Valeria
Published: January 2021

La detección de problemas cognitivos, especialmente en las primeras etapas,  es crítico y el método con el cual se diagnostica es manual y depende de uno o  varios médicos especialistas para diagnosticarse. A la vez que el deterioro cognitivo escala entra en la primera etapa de demencia, como por ejemplo la enfermedad Alzheimer (EA). Las primeras etapas de la EA son muy similares al Deterioro Cognitivo Leve, por esto es fundamental poder identificar los posibles factores asociados con la enfermedad. Actualmente la EA es la sexta causa de muerte en los Estados Unidos y se espera que para el 2050 las personas de 65 años con EA aumenten a 13.8 billones. En este artículo se presenta una revisión de la literatura en la que se describe cómo los algoritmos de Machine Learning ofrecen un método alternativo para la detección y clasificación de variables sobre el diagnóstico de enfermedades cognitivas.
The participation of children in social research. Introduction to the issue
Authors: Zalewska-Królak Aleksandra
Published: January 2021

The perspective of childhood studies has existed in science since the 1990s. Currently, it is considered as a paradigm. The article concerns one of the assumptions of this theoretical orientation – the participation of children in research. The analysis of the concept includes both positive and critical stances expressed in the subject literature. The text contains an analysis of the main assumptions of childhood studies and their relationship to the participatory approach to research. Moreover, it presents types of participatory research with children, considering the degree of their participation. The article refers to numerous examples of both research and specific techniques applied.
The Pakistani community in Spain: social and cultural challenges
Authors: Kosmynka Stanisław
Published: January 2021

This article uses the example of the Pakistani community to explore the phenomenon of multiculturalism in Spain. Although Muslims of Maghrebi origin constitute the most numerous immigrant group on the Iberian Peninsula, the Pakistanis are special in that they represent an exceptionally distinctive and hermetic community. The article analyses social, economic and cultural determinants of this community’s situation in Spain. The Raval immigrant neighbourhood in Barcelona exemplifies the mechanisms under study. The article focuses on determinants of Pakistani immigrants’ situation as well as the challenges that arise against the backdrop of interaction between this community and the host society. The author also reflects on the issue of the ethnocultural distinctiveness of this group in normative and institutional terms, and analyses the consequences of this distinctiveness.
Effect of Biofilm Formation on the Escherichia coli Drug Resistance of Isolates from Pigs in Central China
Authors: Li Jinpeng , Fan Qingying , Mao Chenlong , Jin Manyu , Yi Li , Wang Yang
Published: January 2021

Background: Multi-drug resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) can cause a variety of diseases that lead to considerable economic losses in the swine industry. In the past, the mainstream view believed that most bacterial resistance was caused by planktonic bacteria, but the ability of bacteria to form biofilms was ignored. Here, we isolated and identified 185 strains of E. coli from pigs in central China and analyzed the relationship between their genetics, antibiotic sensitivity and biofilm formation ability. Methods: First, the isolates were classified according to biofilm formation ability by semi-quantitative staining of crystal violet. Then, Phylogenetic group analysis of isolates by polymerase chain reaction. In addition, E. coli with different biofilm-forming abilities were evaluated for antimicrobial susceptibility in its planktonic and biofilm state. Finally, the drug resistance pattern of the isolates with different biofilm formation capabilities were compared. Result: most of the collected strains showed biofilm formation ability (87.57%, 162/185). The isolated E. coli with biofilm formation ability were classified into the following groups: A (16.05%, 26/162), B1 (10.49%, 17/162), B2 (33.33%, 54/162) and D (40.12%, 65/162). Simultaneously, the isolated E. coli were classified into the following groups according to the biofilm formation ability: Strong (34.57%, 56/162), Moderate (33.33%, 54/162), Weak (32.10%, 52/162) and Absent (12.43%, 23/162). Compared with the planktonic cells, the isolates showed a significant increase in the resistance rate in the biofilm form. And the isolates of the strong biofilm-forming ability group had a high drug resistance pattern. This study provides data of the drug resistance of pig-derived E. coli with different biofilm-forming abilities and provides a scientific basis for guiding veterinary clinical treatment and disease prevention.
Degradation of Pyrethroid Insecticide- cypermethrin (25% EC) using Soil Microorganisms and Detection of Degradation Products
Authors: Gurjar M.M. , Hamde V.S.
Published: January 2021

Background: Cypermethrin is used extensively to kill the pests that decreases the crop yield. Excessive use of cypermethrin results in soil and water contamination, thus affecting soil microflora and the aquatic life. Thus, removal of cypermethrin is particularly important. Different physical and chemical methods are available for the cypermethrin removal but are time consuming and costly. So, microbial degradation of cypermethrin is important. The present study aimed to isolate and identify cypermethrin degrading organisms, detection of the cypermethrin degradation product by GC- MS analysis and detection of residual amount of cypermethrin from the medium. Methods: In this laboratory investigation, soil samples were collected from different farms and isolation and identification of microorganisms capable of cypermethrin degradation was performed. Further, detection of residual cypermethrin concentration, cod value and cypermethrin degradation products using GC- MS analysis was performed. Result: Cypermethrin degrading microorganisms were isolated and identified as P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae. These microorganisms degraded 200mg\lit cypermethrin and the cypermethrin degradation products were detected and identified by comparing with the standard database. Residual amount of cypermethrin was detected from the medium by colorimetric method. Residual cypermethrin concentration was decreased with time in the test indicating cypermethrin degradation ability of the P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae. Further, COD value was determined and COD value was found to be decreased in the medium in presence of P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae indicating cypermethrin removal.
Effect of Compaction and Irrigation Regimes on Soil Physical Characteristics, Emergence, Growth and Productivity of Summer Moongbean
Authors: Kahlon M.S. , Singh C.B. , Dhingra Madhu
Published: January 2021

Background: Soil compaction adversely affects mechanical and water transmission characteristics, thus hampering crop growth and productivity. However, under coarse-textured soils, compaction to a certain extent is beneficial concerning restricting water transmission, increasing water retention and improving productivity. The present study was aimed to investigate the effect of compaction and irrigation on soil physical characteristics and productivity of summer moongbean. Methods: A field study was conducted on summer moongbean for two years in loamy sand soil at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India. The treatments comprised three compaction levels i.e. no roller pass (C0), one roller pass (C1) and three roller pass (C3) in main plots and in subplots three irrigation regimes (I0.4, I0.6 and I0.8) with three replicates. Observations included soil bulk density and infiltration rate; seed emergence count, growth traits, yield and yield attributes. Result: Soil bulk density of 5-10 cm depth increased from 1.53 at C0 to 1.62 Mg m-3 at C3. However, infiltration rate of water in soil decreased to 38% with an increase in compaction level from C0 to C3. Seed emergence count was deleteriously affected with increasing compaction level but at 15 DAS, it increased by 33 and 42% at C1 and C3 levels under I0.8 regime as compared to I0.4. Plant height was also minimal at C3 irrespective of irrigation regimes. Compaction reduced the root length density in the surface layers but it increased in the sub-surface layers. Grain and straw yield increased by 15 and 13%, respectively in C1 over C3. An increase in irrigation regimes from I0.4 to I0.8, increased the mean straw and grain yield from 5.10 to 6.10 t ha-1 and 1.13 to 1.32 t ha-1 respectively. However, the irrigation water productivity decreased with an increase in irrigation frequency. These result suggest that compaction up to one roller pass with I0.8 irrigation regime can be beneficial for enhancing grain yield of summer moongbean in loamy sand soil.
Saúde mental no ambiente organizacional: os desafios de uma comunicação não violenta e eficaz com os trabalhadores
Authors: Moretti Sarah de Andrade , Batista Eraldo Carlos
Published: January 2021

A comunicação não violenta é uma ferramenta bastante útil na resolução de conflitos, haja vista, que, por intermédio de sua metodologia inovadora, leva em consideração comportamentos, sentimentos, percepções, necessidades pessoais de si e do outro. O objetivo deste artigo foi analisar a produção literária sobre comunicação organizacional e investigação de modos eficazes de promover o bem-estar geral através da comunicação eficiente e não violenta. Os estudos mostraram que a comunicação não violenta inaugura um modo de comunicação que proporciona a possibilidade de uma conexão real em nossas interações, ao trazer a humanização à tona, com todas as suas necessidades e vulnerabilidades, ela se torna uma valiosa ferramenta de resolução de conflitos e de habilidades sociais.
Riscos Corporativos: um Estudo de Caso em uma Empresa Prestadora de Serviços
Authors: Silveira Michele Domingues Terra da , Matte Juliana , Machado Vanessa de Campos , Da Costa Luana Folchini , Miri Daniel Hank , Chais Cassiane , Ganzer Paula Patrícia , Olea Pelayo Munhoz
Published: January 2021

Os riscos sempre estiveram presentes nos negócios, mas quando não são gerenciados, refletem na economia e na sociedade, visto que o mercado se adapta aos ciclos de eventos financeiros. A partir de 2007, houve uma crescente busca por ferramentas de gestão voltadas à prevenção de riscos, capazes de garantir a continuidade do negócio. Por isso, o objetivo deste artigo foi analisar a implantação de um sistema de gestão para administrar os riscos envolvidos no negócio. A pesquisa possui abordagem qualitativa, através de um estudo de caso único e exploratório. Foram realizadas entrevistas individuais em profundidade por meio de um roteiro de entrevista semiestruturado, que foram realizadas com os gestores envolvidos no processo de implementação de um sistema de gestão de riscos na empresa estudada. Após análise de conteúdo das entrevistas, como principais resultados, foi identificado que houveram mudanças na gestão da organização, que adotou uma postura mais preventiva e estratégica para evitar perdas e essas mudanças trouxeram resultados positivos à gestão da organização.
Desarrollo de un bioimpedancímetro portable para pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica y deportistas de alto rendimiento
Authors: Pineda-Alpízar Andrés Felipe , González-Camacho Federico , Reina-Tosina Javier , Naranjo-Hernández David , Barbarov-Rostán Gerardo
Published: January 2021

El presente artículo da cuenta de la investigación para la innovación, diseño y desarrollo industrial de un dispositivo médico portable que obtiene datos relevantes de la bioimpedancia humana con precisión clínica, desarrollado en el Grupo de Ingeniería Biomédica de la Universidad de Sevilla en conjunto con el Tecnológico de Costa Rica para su diseño industrial. Los sistemas de bioimpedancia son una saliente novedosa en el campo de la e-salud, sin embargo, el incremento de la expectativa de vida y la inclusión de tecnología de monitoreo en aplicaciones deportivas han aumentado la necesidad de dispositivos médicos más portables, precisos y comerciables a nivel masivo, con el objetivo de empoderar al usuario sobre su situación médica. El método utilizado fue una investigación cualitativa centrada en el usuario mediante una metodología guía desarrollada por el autor, el modelo Divergente-Convergente Proyectual (DGC) centrado en el usuario. Los hallazgos más importantes fueron el diseño novedoso de un bioimpedancímetro portable para pacientes con afecciones renales crónicas y deportistas de alto rendimiento, así como el uso de una metodología novedosa para el desarrollo de productos médicos portables.
Neo-globalization Revisited: The Contours of a New Global Economic Order
Authors: Namaki M S S El
Published: January 2021

Disruption induces disequilibrium. Today’s global economy is the case in point.  Powerful sources of disruption are undermining classic premises of global economic equilibrium and, in the process, changing the contours of the world economy. Long cherished globalization premises of free market, open economy, small government, private initiative, and deregulation are being challenged. Sources of this challenge are numerous. There are government and corporate debt, extreme individualism, high industry concentration, slanted income and wealth distribution, self-serving industry practices, and above all self-centered trade policies.

What has gone wrong and is there a way out of this dark environment is the focus of this article. The article addresses the need and premises of a Neo-globalization. It addressed, as a point of start, the failures of the existing paradigm and moves on to address premises for a Neo-globalization.
Locked Inside: Senior Citizens during Pandemic
Authors: Sibal Vatika
Published: January 2021

The right to the city, the right to livelihood, the right to move, the right to work, the right to being in a place have all got disrupted in the past few months. The unprecedented crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic has sent waves of anxiety and panic throughout the world. The infection does not seem to spare any age group but the elderly are at a higher risk.  Elder abuse is a universal pervasive problem of paramount public health importance that garners little attention. Elders suffer from abuse in various ways, like physical, psychological, sexual, material exploitation, and neglect, by their trustworthy caregivers. The elderly face social isolation and one need various ways to mitigate the adverse effects of social isolation. Potential risk factors are social isolation, cognitive impairment, traumatic life events, and dependence on abusers, poor physical and mental health and low social support are some of the concerns.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant social restrictive measures such as lockdown in most places throughout the world, elderly abuse has increased to a great extent. This paper discusses plausible reasons and various socio-cultural factors of elderly abuse. It could lead to the possibility of a menace into a ‘social pandemic’ in the future.
Information Systems: The Changing Scenario of Concepts, Practice and Importance
Authors: Paul P. K. , Aithal P. S. , Saavedra R. , Sinha R.R. , Aremu B. , Mewada S.
Published: January 2021

Information is very important and required in almost all areas and fields. It is close to some of the areas viz. Data, Content and Knowledge. The system is also another concept that deals with the group of interrelated and connected entities, objects, tools, or facets. In other words, combinations of some subsystems are called Systems. Therefore, Systems in respect of the Information is called Information Systems. Information Systems is the way, tools, connected entities that are dedicated or responsible for the information related activities ranging from the collection, selection, organization, processing, management and dissemination. There are different contexts regarding Information Systems, in some contexts, it is also the electronic systems dedicated to information management and delivery to the organizations, institutions. In some contexts, it is the Computational way to preserve and deliver content and information. Information Systems in another context are the apex controlling mechanism of some of the divisional information systems such as Executive Information Systems, Decision Support Systems, etc. which helps in Information related activities to the organizations. Even Information System is also considered as a branch or field of study internationally. This paper is a theoretical one and mentioned the aspects of systems including their foundations, applications of systems, information systems including their foundation, types, nature, and emerging characteristics. The paper also highlights the academic availability and potentiality of Information Systems.