bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time trajectories and within-subject correlations of matrix metalloproteinases 3, 8, 9, 10, 12, and 13 serum levels and their ability to predict mortality in polytraumatized patients: a pilot study
Authors: Negrin Lukas L. , Carlin Greta L. , Ristl Robin , Hajdu Stefan
Published: April 2024

Background

Managing polytrauma victims poses a significant challenge to clinicians since applying the same therapy to patients with similar injury patterns may result in different outcomes. Using serum biomarkers hopefully allows for treating each multiple injured in the best possible individual way. Since matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play pivotal roles in various physiological processes, they might be a reliable tool in polytrauma care.

Methods

We evaluated 24 blunt polytrauma survivors and 12 fatalities (mean age, 44.2 years, mean ISS, 45) who were directly admitted to our Level I trauma center and stayed at the intensive care unit for at least one night. We determined their MMP3, MMP8, MMP9, MMP10, MMP12, and MMP13 serum levels at admission (day 0) and on days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10.

Results

Median MMP8, MMP9, and MMP12 levels immediately rose after the polytrauma occurred; however, they significantly decreased from admission to day 1 and significantly increased from day 1 to day 10, showing similar time trajectories and (very) strong correlations between each two of the three enzyme levels assessed at the same measurement point. For a two-day lag, autocorrelations were significant for MMP8 (− 0.512) and MMP9 (− 0.302) and for cross-correlations between MMP8 and MMP9 (− 0.439), MMP8 and MMP12 (− 0.416), and MMP9 and MMP12 (− 0.307). Moreover, median MMP3, MMP10, and MMP13 levels significantly increased from admission to day 3 and significantly decreased from day 3 to day 10, showing similar time trajectories and an (almost) strong association between every 2 levels until day 7. Significant cross-correlations were detected between MMP3 and MMP10 (0.414) and MMP13 and MMP10 (0.362). Finally, the MMP10 day 0 level was identified as a predictor for in-hospital mortality. Any increase of the MMP10 level by 200 pg/mL decreased the odds of dying by 28.5%.

Conclusions

The time trajectories of the highly varying individual MMP levels elucidate the involvement of these enzymes in the endogenous defense response following polytrauma. Similar time courses of MMP levels might indicate similar injury causes, whereas lead–lag effects reveal causative relations between several enzyme pairs. Finally, MMP10 abundantly released into circulation after polytrauma might have a protective effect against dying.
Immunoglobulins in COVID-19 pneumonia: from the acute phase to the recovery phase
Authors: Peraire Joaquim , García-Pardo Graciano , Chafino Silvia , Sánchez Alba , Botero-Gallego Maryluz , Olona Montserrat , Espineira Sonia , Reverté Laia , Skouridou Vasso , Peiró Óscar M. , Gómez-Bertomeu Fréderic , Vidal Francesc , O’ Sullivan Ciara K. , Rull Anna
Published: April 2024

Background

COVID-19 pneumonia causes hyperinflammatory response that culminates in acute respiratory syndrome (ARDS) related to increased multiorgan dysfunction and mortality risk. Antiviral-neutralizing immunoglobulins production reflect the host humoral status and illness severity, and thus, immunoglobulin (Ig) circulating levels could be evidence of COVID-19 prognosis.

Methods

The relationship among circulating immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM) and COVID-19 pneumonia was evaluated using clinical information and blood samples in a COVID-19 cohort composed by 320 individuals recruited during the acute phase and followed up to 4 to 8 weeks (n = 252) from the Spanish first to fourth waves.

Results

COVID-19 pneumonia development depended on baseline Ig concentrations. Circulating IgA levels together with clinical features at acute phase was highly associated with COVID-19 pneumonia development. IgM was positively correlated with obesity (ρb = 0.156, P = 0.020), dyslipemia (ρb = 0.140, P = 0.029), COPD (ρb = 0.133, P = 0.037), cancer (ρb = 0.173, P = 0.007) and hypertension (ρb = 0.148, P = 0.020). Ig concentrations at recovery phase were related to COVID-19 treatments.

Conclusions

Our results provide valuable information on the dynamics of immunoglobulins upon SARS-CoV-2 infection or other similar viruses.
A method for correcting InSAR interferogram errors using GNSS data and the K-means algorithm
Authors: Yan Huineng , Dai Wujiao , Xu Wenbin , Shi Qiang , Sun Kai , Lu Zhigang , Wang Rui
Published: April 2024

Correcting interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) interferograms using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) data can effectively improve their accuracy. However, most of the existing correction methods utilize the difference between GNSS and InSAR data for surface fitting; these methods can effectively correct overall long-wavelength errors, but they are insufficient for multiple medium-wavelength errors in localized areas. Based on this, we propose a method for correcting InSAR interferograms using GNSS data and the K-means spatial clustering algorithm, which is capable of obtaining correction information with high accuracy, thus improving the overall and localized area error correction effects and contributing to obtaining high-precision InSAR deformation time series. In an application involving the Central Valley of Southern California (CVSC), the experimental results show that the proposed correction method can effectively compensate for the deficiency of surface fitting in capturing error details and suppress the effect of low-quality interferograms. At the nine GNSS validation sites that are not included in the modeling process, the errors in the ascending track 137A and descending track 144D are mostly less than 15 mm, and the average root mean square error values are 11.8 mm and 8.0 mm, respectively. Overall, the correction method not only realizes effective interferogram error correction, but also has the advantages of high accuracy, high efficiency, ease of promotion, and can effectively address large-scale and high-precision deformation monitoring scenarios.

Graphical Abstract
Potential of hospital wastewater treatment using locally isolated Chlorella sp. LH2 from cocoon wastewater
Authors: Le Tu Thi Anh , Nguyen Truong
Published: April 2024

Chlorella sp. is able to grow and transform inorganic and organic contaminants in wastewater to create biomass. In the present study, Chlorella sp. LH2 isolated from cocoon wastewater was able to thrive in hospital wastewater, then remove nutrients and eliminate E. coli ATCC 8739. The results indicated that optimal cultivation conditions of Chlorella sp. LH2 in hospital wastewater were pH of 8, light:dark cycle of 16:8 at 30oC. The inhibitory effect of chlorination on algae growth was accompanied with the chlorine concentration. BOD5:COD ratio of 0.77 indicated biodegradability of hospital wastewater. The untreated and treated wastewatee samples were collected to investigated the nutrient removal efficiency after 10 days. Untreated and treated results were192 ± 8.62 mg/l 23.91 ± 2.19 mg/l for BOD5; 245 ± 9.15 mg/l and 47.31 ± 5.71 mg/l for COD. The treated value met the required standards for hospital wastewater treatment. The removal efficiency total nitrogen and total phosphorus were 68.64% and 64.44% after 10 days, respectively. Elimination of E. coli ATCC 8739 after 7 days by Chlorella sp. LH2 was 88.92%. The results of this study suggest the nutrients and pathogens removal potential of Chlorella sp. LH2 in hospital wastewater for further practical applications.
A study protocol for a feasibility randomised controlled trial investigating videoendoscopic radical inguinal lymphadenectomy versus open radical inguinal lymphadenectomy in patients with penile cancer (VELRAD)
Authors: Tang Stanley , Akers Clare , Alnajjar Hussain , Ayres Ben , Baldini Cinzia , Embleton-Thirsk Andrew , Gurusamy Kurinchi , Hadway Paul , Kumar Vivekanandan , Lau Maurice , Nigam Raj , Pang Karl , Parnham Arie , Pizzo Elena , Ranieri Veronica , Rees Rowland , Sangar Vijay , Wadke Anvi , Williams Norman , Muneer Asif
Published: April 2024

Background

Penile cancer is a rare male genital malignancy. Surgical excision of the primary tumour is followed by radical inguinal lymphadenectomy if there is metastatic disease detected by biopsy, fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) or following sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with impalpable disease. However, radical inguinal lymphadenectomy is associated with a high morbidity rate, and there is increasing usage of a videoendoscopic approach as an alternative.

Methods

A pragmatic, UK-wide multicentre feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT), comparing videoendoscopic radical inguinal lymphadenectomy versus open radical inguinal lymphadenectomy. Patients will be identified and recruited from supraregional multi-disciplinary team meetings (sMDT) and must be aged 18 or over requiring inguinal lymphadenectomy, with no contraindications to surgical intervention for their cancer. Participants will be followed up for 6 months following randomisation. The primary outcome is the ability to recruit patients for randomisation across all selected sites and the rate of loss to follow-up. Other outcomes include acceptability of the trial and intervention to patients and healthcare professionals assessed by qualitative research and obtaining resource utilisation information for health economic analysis.

Discussion

There are currently no other published RCTs comparing videoendoscopic versus open radical inguinal lymphadenectomy. Ongoing study is required to determine whether randomising patients to either procedure is feasible and acceptable to patients. The results of this study may determine the design of a subsequent trial.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov PRS registry, registration number NCT05592639. Date of registration: 13th October 2022, retrospectively registered
A comprehensive pediatric cardio-oncology program: a single institution approach to cardiovascular care for pediatric patients with cancer and childhood cancer survivors
Authors: Hernandez Nathanya Baez , Shliakhtsitsava Ksenya , Tolani Drishti , Cochran Cindy , Butts Ryan , Bonifacio Judith , Journey Elizabeth , Oppenheim Jenna N. , Pennant Sarah G. , Arnold Kimberly , McCaskill Terri , Bowers Daniel C.
Published: April 2024

Cardiovascular complications related to cancer therapies are broad and variable in onset. These complications are the leading cause of non-cancer related morbidity and mortality in childhood cancer survivors and can also impact ongoing cancer treatment. Despite this understanding, dedicated cardio-oncology programs are lacking in pediatric cardiology. In an attempt to respond to these concerns, a risk-stratified, comprehensive cardio-oncology program was established to address the cardiovascular needs including prevention, early diagnosis, and management of patients with and at risk for cardiovascular complications of cancer therapy. This manuscript describes a single institution’s experience of building and managing a multidisciplinary pediatric cardio-oncology program with close collaboration among cardiologists, oncologists, advanced cardiology and oncology practice providers, and allied health providers such as a dietitian and psychologist to provide comprehensive cardiovascular care for childhood cancer patients and survivors. In developing this program, emphasis was on the childhood cancer survivor population, as various cardiovascular complications can present many years after cancer treatment.
Emergency airway management in the prone position: an observational mannequin-based simulation study
Authors: Rajaleelan Wesley , Tuyishime Eugene , Plitman Eric , Unger Zoe , Venkataraghavan Lakshmi , Dinsmore Michael
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Accidental extubation during prone position can be a life-threatening emergency requiring rapid establishment of the airway. However, there is limited evidence of the best airway rescue method for this potentially catastrophic emergency. The aim of this study was to determine the most effective method to recover the airway in case of accidental extubation during prone positioning by comparing three techniques (supraglottic airway, video laryngoscopy, and fiber-optic bronchoscopy) in a simulated environment.

Methods

Eleven anesthesiologists and 12 anesthesia fellows performed the simulated airway management using 3 different techniques on a mannequin positioned prone in head pins. Time required for definitive airway management and the success rates were measured.

Results

The success rates of airway rescue were 100% with the supraglottic airway device (SAD), 69.6% with the video laryngoscope (CMAC), and 91.3% with the FOB. The mean (SD) time to insertion was 18.1 (4.8) s for the supraglottic airway, 78.3 (32.0) s for the CMAC, and 57.3 (24.6) s for the FOB. There were significant differences in the time required for definitive airway management between the SAD and FOB (t = 5.79, p < 0.001, 95% CI = 25.92–52.38), the SAD and CMAC (t = 8.90, p < 0.001, 95% CI = 46.93–73.40), and the FOB and CMAC (t = 3.11, p = 0.003, 95% CI = 7.78–34.25).

Conclusion

The results of this simulation-based study suggest that the SAD I-gel is the best technique to manage accidental extubation during prone position by establishing a temporary airway with excellent success rate and shorter procedure time. When comparing techniques for securing a definitive airway, the FOB was more successful than the CMAC.
Positive effect of lippia sidoides essential oil associated with carboxymethylcellulose in the control of anthracnose in avocado
Authors: Antonia Barbara Della , de Oliveira Jacqueline , da Silva Paula Porrelli Moreira , dos Mares Biazotto Anaíle , de Toledo Nataly Maria Viva , da Glória Eduardo Micotti , Spoto Marta Helena Fillet
Published: April 2024

The fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, which is the causal agent of anthracnose disease in green-skinned avocados, is responsible for significant postharvest fruit losses. In this context, strategies should be considered to avoid this problem. The use of essential oil (EO) can represent an alternative to contribute to antifungal activity, avoiding the use of chemical products, as their indiscriminate use can have harmful effects on human health. It is known that essential oil (EO) may exhibit antifungal activity and can be used as an alternative to chemical products. Therefore, the potential of using Lippia sidoides EO to control this fungus was investigated through in vitro evaluation (MIC and EC50) on C. gloeosporioides isolated from avocados. Furthermore, the potential of incorporating this oil with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) for postharvest treatment in avocados was assessed in vivo to control anthracnose and maintain their physicochemical and sensory quality. The EO from L. sidoides demonstrated a MIC of 125 μl L−1 and an EC50 of 46.83 μl L−1 against this pathogen. The results indicated that the CMC edible coating associated with L. sidoides EO exhibited a positive effect on fruit quality during cold storage. In terms of sensory aspects, avocados treated with L. sidoides EO associated with CMC showed improved appearance compared to the control treatment. These findings suggest that L. sidoides EO has potential in the postharvest treatment of avocados. Additionally, these results are significant and unprecedented for this crop, as research on the postharvest effects of incorporating this EO with edible coatings in avocados is still limited.

Graphical Abstract
Endoscopic Endonasal Transsphenoidal Resection of Pituitary Adenomas in Patients Presenting With Monocular Blindness
Authors: Gomez David , Cheok Stephanie , Feng Jeffrey J. , Chung Ryan , Pangal Dhiraj J. , Ruzevick Jacob J , Gokoffski Kimberly K. , Shiroishi Mark S. , Wrobel Bozena B. , Carmichael John D. , Zada Gabriel
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Suprasellar tumors, particularly pituitary adenomas (PAs), commonly present with visual decline, and the endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach (EETA) is the primary management for optic apparatus decompression. Patients presenting with complete preoperative monocular blindness comprise a high-risk subgroup, given concern for complete blindness. This retrospective cohort study evaluates outcomes after EETA for patients with PA presenting with monocular blindness.

METHODS:

Retrospective analysis of all EETA cases at our institution from June 2012 to August 2023 was performed. Inclusion criteria included adults with confirmed PA and complete monocular blindness, defined as no light perception, and a relative afferent pupillary defect secondary to tumor mass effect.

RESULTS:

Our cohort includes 15 patients (9 males, 6 females), comprising 2.4% of the overall PA cohort screened. The mean tumor diameter was 3.8 cm, with 6 being giant PAs (>4 cm). The mean duration of preoperative monocular blindness was 568 days. Additional symptoms included contralateral visual field defects (n = 11) and headaches (n = 10). Two patients presented with subacute PA apoplexy. Gross total resection was achieved in 46% of patients, reflecting tumor size and invasiveness. Postoperatively, 2 patients experienced improvement in their effectively blind eye and 2 had improved visual fields of the contralateral eye. Those with improvements were operated within 10 days of presentation, and no patients experienced worsened vision.

CONCLUSION:

This is the first series of EETA outcomes in patients with higher-risk PA with monocular blindness on presentation. In these extensive lesions, vision remained stable for most without further decline and improvement from monocular blindness was observed in a small subset of patients with no light perception and relative afferent pupillary defect. Timing from vision loss to surgical intervention seemed to be associated with improvement. From a surgical perspective, caution is warranted to protect remaining vision and we conclude that EETA is safe in the management of these patients.
Assédio moral no serviço público: panóptico da legislação brasileira
Authors: Brochado Mariah , Porto Lucas Magno de Oliveira
Published: April 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo fazer uma revisão da literatura sobre as fontes na legislação brasileira que regulam, de alguma forma, a prática do assédio moral no serviço público. Primeiramente, a pesquisa aborda a definição conceitual do assédio moral e sua proteção legal no setor público e no privado. Na segunda seção, analisamos o panorama da legislação brasileira em relação à prevenção e repressão do assédio moral no serviço público. Na terceira seção, abordamos a legislação do estado de Minas Gerais relacionada com o assédio moral, a qual apresenta conceitos e procedimentos que podem servir de exemplo para outros estados-membros e para a União. Conclui-se que há uma ausência de legislação sobre o tema no âmbito federal, alguns estados regulam o assédio de forma mais repressiva, enquanto outros de forma mais tímida, limitando-se a programas de conscientização sobre o assédio, deixando uma lacuna grave no que diz respeito ao monitoramento e punição das práticas de assédio moral.
Inovação tecnológica e o experimentalismo regulatório: desafios da “uberização da economia”
Authors: Oliveira Rafael Carvalho Rezende , Carmo Thiago Gomes do
Published: April 2024

O presente artigo tem por objetivo abordar os efeitos dos avanços tecnológicos que, no cenário contemporâneo pós-moderno, têm provocado significativas mudanças nos hábitos e práticas sociais. Como consequência dessas transformações, este estudo pretende ainda tratar o papel da regulação estatal como meio de conferir segurança e incrementar ainda mais a difusão de novas tecnologias na atualidade, destacando, ao final, os principais desafios impostos pelo fenômeno usualmente denominado uberização da economia.
A corrupção em processos licitatórios como fator determinante da formação de cartéis: uma abordagem econômica do ordenamento jurídico no mercado de compras governamentais
Authors: Oliveira Emerson Ademir Borges de , Lobo Jorge Ferreira
Published: April 2024

Este artigo tem por objetivo discutir a prática de fraudes e corrupção perpetradas por empresas e agentes públicos no mercado de compras governamentais e a formação de cartéis, com vistas a demonstrar a necessidade de implementação de controles ex ante e gestão de riscos fundamentada na nova lei de licitações. A partir da literatura sobre a formação de cartéis, pretende-se identificar os mecanismos que explicam as relações espúrias havidas entre os agentes públicos e empresas privadas, concebidas sob a égide da Lei nº 8.666/1993, que levaram à prática de fraudes e corrupção nas contratações públicas. Por fim, apresentamos a estruturação de linhas de defesa, com um sistema de mitigação de fraudes e corrupção, incorporado no novo marco regulatório das licitações. A metodologia aplicada é indutiva, tendo em vista que a análise busca uma conclusão a partir das evidências de casos concretos.
Participação do cidadão na regulamentação: passado, presente e futuro
Authors: Coglianese Cary
Published: April 2024

Os estudiosos do direito administrativo e os reformadores governamentais argumentam que os avanços na tecnologia da informação irão consideravelmente ampliar a participação pública na formulação de políticas regulatórias. Eles defendem que a regulamentação eletrônica, ou seja, a aplicação de novas tecnologias à elaboração de regras administrativas, promete transformar um processo anteriormente isolado em que cidadãos comuns possam regularmente contribuir. Com o governo federal tendo implementado diversas iniciativas de regulamentação eletrônica nos últimos anos, agora podemos começar a avaliar se tal transformação está em curso — ou mesmo no horizonte. Este artigo compara observações empíricas sobre a participação dos cidadãos no passado, antes da introdução da regulamentação eletrônica, com dados mais recentes sobre a participação dos cidadãos após a introdução de vários tipos de inovações tecnológicas. Contrariamente às previsões prevalecentes, a pesquisa empírica mostra que a regulamentação eletrônica faz pouca diferença: a contribuição dos cidadãos continua tipicamente escassa, apesar da facilidade relativa com que os indivíduos podem agora aprender e comentar sobre propostas regulatórias. Esses resultados indicam que as barreiras mais significativas à participação dos cidadãos são de natureza cognitiva e motivacional. Mesmo com a regulamentação eletrônica, um alto nível de sofisticação técnica é necessário para compreender e comentar sobre os procedimentos regulatórios. Além disso, embora a tecnologia da informação reduza o custo absoluto de submeter comentários às agências reguladoras, ela também diminui drasticamente os custos de uma ampla variedade de atividades de entretenimento e comerciais que são muito mais atrativas para a maioria dos cidadãos. Dadas as oportunidades de custo persistentes e outras barreiras à participação dos cidadãos, mesmo os esforços futuros de regulamentação eletrônica parecem improváveis de gerar uma revolução participativa, mas podem ser esperados para fornecer geralmente o mesmo nível de envolvimento dos cidadãos no processo regulatório.
Gestational diabetes mellitus as a risk factor for future Type-2 diabetes mellitus: An experience from a tertiary care diabetes hospital, Karachi - Pakistan
Authors: Riaz Musarrat , Waris Nazish , Saadat Akifa , Fawwad Asher , Basit Abdul
Published: April 2024

Objective: To evaluate the history of gestational diabetes mellitus and other risk factors in women presenting with Type-2 diabetes mellitus at a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out at Baqai Institute of Diabetology & Endocrinology (BIDE), Baqai Medical University (BMU), Karachi-Pakistan from July 2019 to May 2022. Women with Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) visiting outpatient department of BIDE with a previous history of GDM were recruited. Details were obtained on pre-designed questionnaire after taking informed written consent. 

Results: A total of 378 women who had a prior history of GDM were included. Mean age (years) was 43.53±10.17. Mostly women were obese (BMI = 30.53±6.08) and have sedentary lifestyle. Mean HbA1c (%) was 9.08±2.24. This study found family history of T2DM and hypertension were common risk factors in women with GDM history. Mostly, women were diagnosed as GDM during 2nd trimester 153(42%) and was mainly seen in multiparous women (occur in 4th and above pregnancy). We found hypertension as common complication during pregnancy. Around 46% women developed T2DM within one year of GDM diagnosis, and 29.6% between one to five years.

Conclusion: Majority of women with GDM developed T2DM within five years of diagnosis. The potential associated risk factors were age, family history of diabetes, insulin use during pregnancy, trimester of GDM diagnosis, and hypertension during pregnancy. Awareness and life style modifications along with regular post-partum follow up with screening for T2DM should be part of GDM management to prevent or delay the occurrence of this serious complication.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.5.7507

How to cite this: Riaz M, Waris N, Saadat A, Fawwad A, Basit A. Gestational diabetes mellitus as a risk factor for future Type-2 diabetes mellitus: An experience from a tertiary care diabetes hospital, Karachi - Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(5):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.5.7507

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The thermal perceptions of people in relation to meteorological
observations. Case study for the urban agglomeration in
Suceava - NE Romania
Authors: Mihăilă Dumitru , Țiculeanu (Ciurlică) Mihaela , Bistricean Petruț-Ionel , Lazurca Liliana Gina , Silișteanu Sînziana – Călina
Published: April 2024

Abstract: Background: This study by design, approach, duration and number of respondents is the first of its kind for Suceava and Romania. The first objective of the study was to assess the average level of thermal perceptions of the population in the researched area. Methods: The respondents appreciated and wrote the level of comfort/discomfort felt daily, the interdiurnal, interlunar and intertemporal regime of thermal perceptions by reference to the meteorological elements and bio-meteorological indices was also assessed. The biometeorological survey test was conducted from January 1, 2019 to February 28, 2021, and 9321 valid responses were received (on average 11.8 answers/day-1). Results: The overall average of the answers (of -0.55) shows that the respondents perceived the atmosphere of the urban agglomeration as cool, the winters were cold and moderately cold (the answers average = -1.43), whereas the summers were more thermally comfortable than warm (the average of the answers = 0.73). The Pearson correlation coefficients between the averages of the daily answers and the average or extreme values of temperature, respectively of the biome-teorological indices, ranged between 0.65 and 0.88. Conclusions: The PCA analysis reconfirmed high degrees of correlation between the average responses, the examined meteorological and bio-meteorological factors.
Analysis of cognitive status during rehabilitation after hip arthroplasty associated with pre-existing knee arthroplasty on the same leg: Case Presentation
Authors: Chicu Mihaiela , Esanu Irina , Mihailov Liliana , Onofrei Bianca Andreea , Matran-Dan Madalina Ioana
Published: April 2024

Abstract: Introduction: Hip arthroplasty conducted through either cemented or cementless pros-theses must alleviate pain and restore joint mobility and muscle strength. The main goal is to restore mobility, stability and to maintain ADL (Activities of Daily Living) within normal parameters. Current surgical techniques allow for state-of-the-art surgeries to be performed. Yet, the postoper-ative course is strongly influenced by both pre-and postoperative psychological factors, as well as by associated diseases.
Materials and Methods: We present the case of a 79-year-old female patient from Iasi, a retired yet still physically active gym teacher who was admitted an emergency to the Orthopedics Clinic of the ”Sf. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital with a displaced left femoral neck fracture resulting from same-level fall. The patient had for 6 years a Scorpio-Stryker cemented knee prosthesis on the same leg. Through surgical intervention, a cementless bipolar Lépine prosthesis was inserted into the left hip. Then, the patient presented to the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of the Iasi Clinical Railroad Hospital to receive an adequate post-operative rehabilitation program.
Results: The psychosocial factors have been analyzed with the help of various recent and spe-cialized psychological scales. The obtained results confirm the fact that these factors significantly influence the rehabilitation of prosthesis-wearing patients.
Conclusion: Our study emphasizes the psychological impact on standing and walking rehabilita-tion in a patient with two prostheses on the same motor axis.
The role of cardiac rehabilitation in patients with atrial
fibrillation and heart failure
Authors: Ganea Andreea , Guşetu Gabriel , Caloian Bogdan , Zdrenghea Dumitru , Pop Dana
Published: April 2024

Abstract: This review investigates the role and effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation in individuals diagnosed with atrial fibrillation and heart failure. A comprehensive analysis of existing literature, clinical trials, and observational studies was conducted to assess the outcomes associated with cardiac rehabilitation interventions in this specific patient population. The complex and bidirec-tional relationship between atrial fibrillation and heart failure underscores the importance of a patient-centered approach that integrates medical, lifestyle, and rehabilitative interventions for optimal care and outcomes. Results suggest improved functional capacity, enhanced quality of life, and potential favorable cardiovascular outcomes. The review brings new insights to the existing literature, emphasizing the importance of personalized cardiac rehabilitation strategies in opti-mizing the overall well-being of these patients.
Effects of post warm-up short-term inactivity on physical and physiological parameters in female elite team handball players
Authors: Gheorghe Carmen , Michalsik Lars Bojsen , Bădău Dana , Mereuță Claudiu
Published: April 2024

Abstract: In team handball, coaches can make unlimited substitutions, allowing players to enter the game at any time, even if they haven't been active on the bench. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of inactivity following a warm-up on the physical performance and physi-ological responses of female elite team handball players. The secondary aim of the study was to examine a possible connection between the examined parameters. Twelve female adult elite field handball players (n = 12; age, 31.9 ± 4.05 years; weight, 66.1 ± 5.8 kg; height 173 ± 3.8 cm and body mass index, 2.2 ± 0.2 kg/cm2) were examined. All tests were assessed in two distinct situations: (a) immediately after warm-up (T1-AW) and (b) after a 15-minute inactivity period (T2-IP). The physical tests performed were: countermovement jump with arms fixed (CMJ AF), squat jump (SJ), medicinal ball rotational throw test right (MBTT-R) and medicinal ball rotational throw test left (MBTT-L) and 10 m acceleration test (TA 10m). Heart rate (HR) was measured during warm-up and at T2-IP, while body temperature (BT), lactic acid (LA), serum glucose (G), and blood oxygen sat-uration (SpO2) were measured at T1-AW and T2-IP. Significant differences were found at T2-IP for RSI1 (t= 2.88, p < 0.01) and PP (t= 2.24, p < 0.05), specific to CMJ AF and RSI1 (t= 3.88, p < 0.01), and for PP specific to SJ (t= 2.28, p < 0.05). All physical indices correlated positively with the physio-logical ones. In addition, two significant correlations were identified, one between the decrease in the RSI 1-CMJ AF index and the PP-CMJ AF index (r=0.59, p<0.05) and another between the decline in the PP- SJ and Tc (r=0.60, p<0.05). The results obtained from the present study indicate that short-term inactivity can negate some of the physical and physiological benefits that players gain from warming up. The study revealed a significant reduction in certain parameters related to jump tests after a 15-minute period of inactivity. Moreover, it was observed that there is a direct corre-lation between the decrease in body temperature and the reduction in peak power specific to squat jump performance. This implies that lower body temperatures that result from a short period of inactivity can have a negative impact on jumping performance just before players enter the game.
A topical reappreasal on use of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in elderly patients with postischemic stroke statuses - a systematic literature review
Authors: Alecu-Mihai Valeria Madalina , Zamfirescu Andreea , Aurelian Sorina Maria , Onose Gelu
Published: April 2024

Abstract: Introduction: Stroke is a cerebrovascular disease with an impressive potential of disabil-ity, (multi)morbidity, and mortality among elderly patients. After stroke, a series of seque-lae represents a dynamic challenge for rehabilitation, especially for improving motor, cognitive and depressive disorders (1,2). Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive, painless, neuromodulations and neurostimulation method, which uses electromagnetic induction to administer repeated trains of pulses, with thera-peutic, diagnostic and research purposes (3–5).
Method: We performed a systematic literature review of the related literature using a widely international accepted method - Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)(6), by searching, filtering, and selecting profile documen-tary material. Combinations/syntaxes of keywords were searched in the following interna-tional databases: Elsevier(7), PubMed(8), PMC(9), PEDro(10), in ISI indexed journals by Web of Knowledge/Science(11) during 1/01/2019-31/12/2021. Besides the 9 articles selected to enhance our related knowledge base we have also used some works freely identified in the literature.
Results and discussions: 9 articles satisfied all the previous filtering criteria/ PRISMA steps and were selected for qualitative and detailed analysis. The benefits of rTMS, aiming to bring further insight into the responsiveness of motor deficit, depression, and cognitive impairment of the treatment, and through the favorable dynamic progress of the scores of the quantification scales used: HAMD-17/ HDRS, Hamilton Depression Scale; MMSE, Mini-Mental State Examination; MoCA, Montreal Cognitive Assesment; SCWT, Stroop Color-Word Interference Test; WAIS, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale; NIHSS, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale; Barthel Index Score; ADL, Activities of Daily Living; mRS, modified Rankin Scale; FIM, Functional Independence Measures.
Conclusions: Through this systematic review, we wish to present the perspective of the successful use of rTMS among elderly patients. We also intend for this work to be the start-ing point in the development of a doctoral study, which will include post-stroke sequelae, such as motor deficits, depressive and cognitive disorders, and through which we will strengthen scientific confidence in the tolerability and effectiveness of this type of stimula-tion for this segment of age.
The positions of Russia and the United States on nuclear security issues and the prospects for new agreements
Authors: Mizin V. , Sevost'yanov P. , Matyukhin A.
Published: April 2024

In the modern complex system of international relations, in a situation of escalating confrontation between Russia and the United States, increasing tension in relations between Western countries and the "Global South", arms control, primarily nuclear, as well as non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, continues to be one of the most important areas of Russian foreign and defense policy. The Russian Federation pays priority attention to strengthening and developing the system of international treaties in the fields of strategic security and arms control. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to consider the prospects for one of the key aspects of the Russian-American agreements - nuclear arms control and the achievement of sustainable strategic stability. This led to the active use of such methods as analysis and synthesis of data on the current state of nuclear strategic security, a historical approach that identifies the previous context of agreements, as well as a comparative analysis focused on comparing the basic approaches, interests, goals and priorities of the Russian and American sides. Based on foreign policy imperatives, including consolidating Russia's role as a guarantor of international stability and arms control, the authors propose a non-standard scenario for restoring the viability of the key START Treaty of 2010. The article suggests the outlines of possible concrete solutions and potential elements of agreements that can become the basic topic for the resumption of bilateral consultations on strategic stability and an integral part of the new agreement. The authors conclude that reaching mutually acceptable agreements on this topical issue will have a positive impact on reducing the military threat and reducing the risks of unleashing a nuclear conflict, which meets the strategic interests of Russian national security and global stability.
Remote electronic voting: application experience in Russia and abroad
Authors: Alekseev Roman , Kriveshko D.
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the article is to study the use of remote electronic voting (DEG) in Russia and a number of foreign countries that have been using this innovative technology for a long period of time during local and national elections (Estonia and Switzerland), as well as those who refused to use it (Germany) due to various political risks. The cases of four countries (Russia, Switzerland, Germany, Estonia) are considered. The study is conducted using the case study method, which allowed us to identify the positive and negative sides of online voting, identify and propose ways to prevent both obvious and potential political risks associated with the widespread use of DEG in practice. Comparative studies are among the auxiliary tools for comprehensive coverage and analysis of the issues under consideration, which made it possible to compare the forms of DEG, their organizational and legal support in Russian and foreign legislation. The theoretical significance of the study is determined by the results of a comprehensive analysis obtained during an excursion into the history of the testing of DEG and the forecast of its further use both in Russia and abroad, structuring the stages of application during elections of various scales, making this method of expressing the will of voters legally binding, or limiting or prohibiting its use both domestically and abroad. for compatriots living abroad. The practical significance of the work consists in offering effective ways of public control over the course of the DEG, which will contribute to increasing confidence in the results of online voting. The authors propose the gradual introduction of DEG and only in regions capable of providing high-quality technical equipment and the possibility of public control over both voting and vote counting. The voter should have the opportunity to vote using a paper ballot in case he changes his mind and decides to express his will in the traditional way, even on the day of voting. Using the example of the cases of four states in which this technology was used with varying degrees of intensity, the authors conclude that it is necessary to use an inclusive (i.e. open) the DEG model and its various modifications (for example, such as the electoral blockchain), so that potential mobile voters have no doubts about the transparency of this method of expressing their will and the ability to track the cast vote at any stage of the electoral process, which will contribute not only to legitimizing the results obtained, but also to increasing confidence in the electoral system as a whole.
Nordic countries: national and regional branding
Authors: Voronkov V.
Published: April 2024

Currently, global challenges and threats pay much attention to promising political strategies in order to strengthen economic cooperation between states. Therefore, the actions taken by the administrations of the Nordic nations, which are considered to be Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, are worth examining not only for their successful long-term collaboration but also as a model for implementing innovative approaches to regional development through branding and new technologies. This study provides a comparative analysis of cooperation and an assessment of Nordic positioning approaches through the use of national and regional place brands. The purpose of the research is to explore the application of branding technologies of this study is to study the use of branding technologies to strengthen economic cooperation in the Nordic countries. The research methodology is based on conducting a comparative analysis of cooperation and assessing the approaches to positioning the Nordic countries through the use of common and regional brands. The theoretical significance of the work lies in revealing the possibilities of branding technologies for strengthening economic cooperation between states, as well as in studying successful practices of regional development. The practical significance of the work provides possible recommendations for Nordic governments on the use of branding technologies to strengthen economic cooperation. The results of the study allow us to conclude that the use of branding technologies is a widely used tool in the region, and can contribute to successful regional development.
Cognitive possibilities of political science: ask questions about Russian political science
Authors: Kopaev E.
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the work is to raise the question of the cognitive capabilities of political science and to what extent, in this regard, the methodological tools of political science are an adequate means for studying Russian reality. The methodology of the research was a politico-philosophical approach, which used a retrospective method and discourse analysis. The specificity of the social sciences and humanities implies the existence of value positions of the subject of cognition and determines the practice-oriented orientation of his research activity. The model of reality reconstructed by the scientist is based on a value-colored picture of the world, which directly or implicitly influences the interpretation of facts. Political science, being a part of social and humanitarian knowledge, is not devoid of its specificity and is also based on a certain model of the worldview - a paradigm. The science of politics was formed in the bosom of Western society, taking as a basis the corresponding paradigm of thinking. At a certain point, comparative studies begins to occupy a central position in the study of politics, in fact identifying the whole of political science with itself. Its distinctive feature, which has not been overcome to this day, is the attitude to compare the entire diversity of the political world with its own "ideal" of due. Accordingly, everything that does not fit into this value picture of the world is recognized as hostile, backward, imperfect. On such paradigmatic grounds, the study of Russian political life has been carried out for a long time. By adopting such a way of explaining the political sphere of Russian society, we put ourselves in the position of catching up, trying to adjust our own reality to the standards that were formed in other cultural and historical conditions. Based on this, the question arises about the application of the methodology of political science to Russian conditions. Conclusions: the question posed in the work may affect the change of the paradigm in force in Russian political science or, at least, the clarification of its methodological foundations, which opens up a wide scope for research for domestic social scientists.
Partnership in a hospital setting: Consumer perspectives of hospital midwifery care in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Daellenbach Shanti , Dixon Lesley , Anderson Jacqui , Nisa-Waller Arianna , Lockwood Sarah , Neely Eva
Published: April 2024

Background: Midwives in Aotearoa New Zealand, regardless of the setting, practise within a model of midwifery partnership. Soliciting feedback on practice provides an essential mechanism for midwives to work towards improving their practice. The New Zealand College of Midwives provides such a process for consumers of midwifery services to give feedback on their experiences directly to the midwife, via online consumer feedback forms. Aim: To identify the characteristics of midwifery care that contribute to positive and negative midwifery care relationships within the hospital setting. Methods: A retrospective mixed methods approach was used to analyse the consumer feedback on hospital midwives received between 1 January and 31 December, 2019. Quantitative data from feedback forms were analysed descriptively in combination with an iterative and reflexive thematic approach for the qualitative data. The analysis sought to identify characteristics of care that contributed to a positive or negative midwifery care experience in a hospital setting. Findings: There were 1,284 online feedback forms received for hospital midwives. The majority of respondents who completed feedback questionnaires were satisfied with their care (92%), reporting that hospital midwives provided information/explanations to support informed decision-making (94.0%), that they felt involved in planning/decisions about their care (93.7%) and that they experienced respect for decisions made (93.7%); these characteristics having the highest levels of agreement. Via qualitative analysis, we identified four key themes as contributing to the midwifery care experience in a hospital setting. Positive experience themes included: Building trust quickly, Respecting decision-making and Fostering maternal confidence, resulting in Meaningful partnerships. The negative experience themes were found to be the inverse of a positive midwifery care experience in a hospital setting. Specifically, these were: Not giving time and Judgement and disrespect, resulting in an Unsafe space and an Absence of partnership. Conclusion: The data from consumer feedback forms for 2019 affirm that the quality of the relationship with a hospital midwife is important in shaping the maternity care experience of women and birthing whānau in Aotearoa New Zealand. The characteristics of care that contribute to a positive midwifery care relationship in hospital reflect the principles outlined in the model of midwifery partnership.