bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Variation of Water Supply and Demand Balance under Drought Risk and Its Relationship with Maize Yield: A Case Study in Midwestern Jilin Province, China
Authors: Ma Yining , Zhang Jiquan , Zhao Chunli , Li Kaiwei , Dong Shuna , Liu Xingpeng , Tong Zhijun
Published: September 2021

Under the background of global warming, the frequent occurrence and long-term persistence of drought events have substantial negative effects on agricultural production. As the main maize production area in midwestern Jilin Province, frequent drought and a shortage of irrigation water pose substantial threats to the production of maize. We analyzed the balance of water supply and demand in each growth period and the degree of maize yield affected by drought. The results indicate that the FIO-ESM climate model can effectively simulate the changes in temperature and precipitation, and was highly applicable to the study area. From 1980 to 2020, the drought risk indices for the sowing to jointing, jointing to tasseling, tasseling to milk-ripe, and milk-ripe to maturity stages were 0.62, 0.52, 0.48, and 0.60, respectively. In the future, the chances of a RCP8.5 scenario drought risk and an enhanced RCP4.5 scenario have eased. Spatially, the high-risk areas shift in a “west−central−southwest” pattern. Effective precipitation will decrease in the future, while the increasing water requirement of maize increases the dependence on irrigation water. The irrigation requirement index is more than 70% for all periods, particularly in the milk-ripe to maturity stage. The relative meteorological yields were positively correlated with the CWDI of the whole growth period, with the rate of reduction in maize yield and the yield reduction coefficient of variation at a high level of risk between 1980 and 2020. In the future, the negative impact of drought risk on the yield of maize lessened with no obvious trend in production. In particular, the rate of reduction and reduction coefficient of variation for the RCP8.5 scenario were 1.24 and 1.09, respectively.
Effects of Sodium Chloride on Algae and Crustaceans—The Neighbouring Links of the Water Trophic Chain
Authors: Sikorski Łukasz
Published: September 2021

Salinity limits the habitable living environment for aquatic organisms. Algae and crustaceans are widely used as bioindicators in freshwater environmental risk assessments. This study aimed to use biotests (Algaltoxkit and Daphtoxkit) to determine the effect of sodium chloride (NaCl) on algae Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata and crustaceans Daphnia magna. Standard biotests were extended to include NaCl effects on algal chlorophyll fluorescence and crustaceans swimming and heart rate. It was found that after 7 days, a 0.24 M of NaCl reduced the growth rate of the algae by 50% (EC50). A NaCl of 0.27 M inhibited the minimum (Fo), maximum (Fm) and variable (Fv) fluorescence by 50%, on average. The crustaceans also responded to NaCl. Those exposed to 0.19 M NaCl during 15 min swam slower by 50% and a 0.27 M immobilised three organisms (EC50). The crustacean immobilisation was less modified by NaCl than swimming. To determine the lethal effect in non-swimming organisms, the heart rate was examined. At 0.35 M of NaCl, all organisms were dead after 30 min, as their hearts did not beat. These studies suggest that physiological and behavioural features are sensitive indicators of the toxic effects of NaCl in algae and crustaceans, before morphological changes are observed.
Simulating Rainfall Interception by Caatinga Vegetation Using the Gash Model Parametrized on Daily and Seasonal Bases
Authors: Lopes Daniela C. , Steidle Neto Antonio José , Silva Thieres G. F. , Souza Luciana S. B. , Zolnier Sérgio , Souza Carlos A. A.
Published: September 2021

Rainfall partitioning by trees is an important hydrological process in the contexts of water resource management and climate change. It becomes even more complex where vegetation is sparse and in vulnerable natural systems, such as the Caatinga domain. Rainfall interception modelling allows extrapolating experimental results both in time and space, helping to better understand this hydrological process and contributing as a prediction tool for forest managers. In this work, the Gash model was applied in two ways of parameterization. One was the parameterization on a daily basis and another on a seasonal basis. They were validated, improving the description of rainfall partitioning by tree species of Caatinga dry tropical forest already reported in the scientific literature and allowing a detailed evaluation of the influence of rainfall depth and event intensity on rainfall partitioning associated with these species. Very small (0.0–5.0 mm) and low-intensity (0–2.5 mm h−1) events were significantly more frequent during the dry season. Both model approaches resulted in good predictions, with absence of constant and systematic errors during simulations. The sparse Gash model parametrized on a daily basis performed slightly better, reaching maximum cumulative mean error of 9.8%, while, for the seasonal parametrization, this value was 11.5%. Seasonal model predictions were also the most sensitive to canopy and climatic parameters.
Dissolved Inorganic Nitrogen Input via Net Nitrogen Mineralization under Antibiotics and Warming from the Water Level Fluctuation Zone of a Three Gorges Tributary
Authors: Lin Junjie , Yan Chang , Liu Dan , Du Yaling , Xiong Chunmei , Yang Xiaoxia , Nie Qingyu
Published: September 2021

The water level fluctuation (WLF) zone is one of the dominant sources of total dissolved inorganic nitrogen (TDN) export via net nitrogen (N) mineralization in the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR). However, antibiotics pollution may impact the process of TND exports from WLF zone in the TGR, especially under drying-rewetting processes and climate warming, and thus increasing the risk of eutrophication in the tributaries of the TGR. The effects of the antibiotics Griseofulvin (GIN) and Fosfomycin (FIN) with 0, 0.2 and 0.4 g kg−1 net N mineralization rate (NMR) from WLF-zone soil in the Pengxi river, a typical tributary of the Yangtze River, under 25 and 35 °C were estimated in 30-day flooding and drying incubations. The results showed that GIN concentrations, temperatures and their interaction significantly affect net-nitrification rates (NNR) and NMR under drying and did not significantly affect NNR under flooding. FIN concentrations and temperatures solely influenced the NNR under flooding. The amounts of TDN exports via NMR without antibiotics from the WLF zone of Pengxi River are 6883.8 (flooding, 25 °C), 9987.3 (flooding, 35 °C), 9781.6 (drying, 25 °C), and 27,866.5 (drying, 35 °C) t year−1, which is 21.0, 29.8, 30.4 and 84.8 times of the permissible Class A discharge in China according to (GB18918-2002). Thus, the NMR of WLF zone should be controlled whether there is antibiotics pollution or not, especially during the dry period for alleviating water eutrophication. This study will be helpful for the assessment of nitrogen budgets in the WLF zone to eutrophication in the Three Gorges Reservoir.
PHILOSOPHICAL AND PEDAGOGICAL DREAMS AND REAL ACTIONS OF THE OUTSTANDING SCIENTIST OF CONTEMPORARY TIME
Authors: Nychkalo Nellia
Published: September 2021

The article outlines the philosophical and pedagogical views of the outstanding ukrainian scientist I. Ziaziun, who dedicated his life and work to the master in all his hypostases. In his active work, new ideas, author's theories and concepts were born, which today cause dissatisfaction with the conservatives, who are a lot in state bodies and in the educational field.The problem of freedom of the personality in the space of pedagogical action, technology and techniques of personality development of freedom of subjects of learning; epistemological and culturological dimensions of the educational system, preparation of teachers for the educational process as the  expected  responsible action – are extremely important and predictive layers of scientific knowledge, which are substantiated in the writings of the scientist. Particular attention is paid to the disclosure of the provisions concerning: logistical model of the pedagogical outlook, new approaches to teacher training in Ukraine; university teacher training for profile education of senior students; the leading role of pedagogical departments in the training of future teachers; epistemological and culturological dimensions of the educational system; continuous education, its conceptual foundations, models, content and forms.The scientist's dream of a high teacher status in Ukraine was combined with a philosophical belief that teacher's teacher's skills would become a powerful and at the same time a subtle tool that will open the hearts of children and parents, will strengthen love for family, friends and open up children's talents. Scientists have substantiated, confirmed and really introduced the concept of pedagogical skill, which has deep roots, reaching sources of ukrainian history, culture, ethno-national traditions, wisdom of our people. For many years the scientist has crystallized theoretical and methodological positions and non-traditional interdisciplinary principles of pedagogical skill.It was emphasized that academician Ivan Ziaziun's legacy should be studied in different directions: philosophical, ethical, psychological, pedagogical, methodological and others. The scientific value is its prognostic views on psychodiagnostics.  The  constant  search  for  innovative  approaches  enabled  the methodological substantiation of psycho-pedagogical principles of pedagogical skill as a system of professional competences.
IN THE ORIGINS OF THE ASSOCIATE MAKARENKO STUDIES
Authors: Tkachenko Andriy
Published: September 2021

The name of THE academician I. Ziaziun is inextricably linked with all major events of the last decades in the field of Makarenko studies, among which the most important is the creation of the International Makarenko Association, an international association of scholars, which brings together individuals and organizations interested in the study, propaganda and creative introduction of the pedagogical heritage of A. S. Makarenko. Having taken up the position of the rector of PoltavaV. G. Korolenko State Pedagogical Institute (1975), I. A. Ziaziun deeply realized the integrity of the world process of Makarenko studies, the urgent need to combine international studies. For the first time, the idea of creating International Makarenko Association was fixed in the celebration of the 100th anniversary of Makarenko, whose training was led by I. Ziaziun. International Makarenko Association project was discussed at the 6th International Makarenko Symposium, supported by researchers from 15 countries. International Makarenko Association was created at a conference in Poltava Pedagogical Institute on September 23-28, 1991 – the charter and governing bodies were approved, Poltava Pedagogical Institute was recognized as the association's scientific and organizational center. Presidents of International Makarenko   Association   were   elected:   M. Yarmachenko,   I. Ziaziun,   G. Khillig, T. Korablova, N. S. de Kumis. The objectives of International Makarenko Association are: studying the life, activities and creative heritage of A. S. Makarenko, mastering and developing his legacy in modern conditions, studying, propagating and disseminating the experience of Makarenko followers. While maintaining the organizational integrity of the Academic Ziaziun, today the activities of International Makarenko Association include the following: coordination and organization of scientific meetings, discussion of research issues, presentation of Makarenko studies publishing projects, exchange of information and literature, support and consultation of the relevant Internet resources, initiation and conduct of public-pedagogical actions and memorial events, etc.
PIANO WORKS OF THE POLTAVA COMPOSERS IN THE EDUCATIONAL REPERTOIRE OF THE MUSICAL INSTRUMENT
Authors: Glushkova Svetlana
Published: September 2021

The question of the formation of personality and professionalism of the future music teacher with national repertoire is analyzed. Peculiarities of development of musical art of different periods of the 19th-20th centuries are characterized. National educational value of piano works of Ukrainian national school of composers XІX – XX century; their didactic and cognitive potential reasonably allows you to include them, along with the works of Western European and Russian composers, into learning repertoire of students of music of higher educational institutions. Significant creative achievements, active educational activities of well-known and little-known figures of Ukrainian national composer school of Poltava region from the beginning of the 19th and  the  middle  of  the  20th  century  –  A. Yedlychki,  M. Lysenko,  P. Shchurovsky, M.   Kolachevsky, L. Lisovsky, S. Shevchenko is highlighted. Inclusion of their piano works in the modern educational repertoire of students of higher pedagogical educational institutions in the mastering of «Musical Instrument» course  is considered. Their piano pieces are played in concerts, exams, performances. Study of the musical repertoire of the Ukrainian composers of Poltava region, understanding the characteristics of its various genres, creates ample opportunity for spiritual formation of the future music teachers.
THEORETICAL ASPECTS OF THE FORMATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL CULTURE OF STUDENT
Authors: Onipko Valentyna , Diachenko-Bohun Maryna
Published: September 2021

The article deals with aspects of increasing the effectiveness of the formation of the environmental culture  of students.  The most effective  ways and  directions of environmental work with students are offered. Environmental protection represents the holistic development of the individual, society in the global plan, the preservation and development of cultural, civilization forms of life. In this context, the development of the student's personality should be considered, precisely because of the close interaction with the university community, and the environment, in providing support and assistance to the student in self-realization and creativity, readiness to assert his independence and responsibility, in developing his ability to independently solve problems. Information about environmental protection, in addition to the study of special subjects of natural and geographical profile at higher educational institutions, is actualized and finds demand.The authors highlight some aspects related to environmental activities of students, because the result of this work with students should be the creation of such a model of environmental education and upbringing, which will create an educational environment comfortable for all students, and necessary for their environmental development and self-realization.
A CHILD WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS AT POLISH PRESCHOOL INSTITUTION
Authors: Pleskura Magdalen
Published: September 2021

The article examines the possibilities of preschool education at Polish kindergartens for children with special educational needs (hereinafter referred to as "SEN"). The emphasis is on inclusive education, which aims at ensuring individual development of the child with SEN and the proper functioning of the inclusive group. The author reveals the methodology of construction of an individual educational and therapeutic program. It is developed during the first thirty days of the child's staying at preschool institution by a multidisciplinary team appointed by the director, based on an interdisciplinary assessment sheet of the level of functioning of each child.The role of an assistant teacher in adapting the child with special educational needs to the preschool environment is described in detail. It helps to establish social contacts with other children, to achieve self-service standards, initiates games, strengthens the child's self-esteem, mobilizes for tasks, explains to other children the behavior and reaction of children with SENs, encourages socially acceptable behaviors, reacts to aggression and auto aggression, etc. The assistant teacher applies a wide range of techniques (positive reinforcement, behavioral therapy elements, training to replace aggression, games, etc.).The author distinguishes the professional competences of inclusive education specialists, in particular the ability to diagnose and interpret their results, provide continuous observation and psycho-pedagogical research, introduce advanced educational experience, readiness for abnormal work according to the needs of the child, knowledge of the medical issues about the nature of the disease / child's dysfunction, identification of a positive emotional attitude towards pupils, belief in the value of integration of education and training of children with disabilities.
MODERN TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION IN THE DEVELOPED EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
Authors: Bliznyuk M. , Debre O.
Published: September 2021

The article analyses the state of technology education integration in economically developed foreign countries in accordance with today’s requirements. The world’s leading trends in the context of providing comprehensive, equitable, and quality technology education as one of the leading goals of sustainable development, approved by the United Nations, are considered.

The structure of technology education in Germany and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is described; features of technology education integration in France are considered. The importance of technological literacy and technological competence for the development of modern education, in general, is substantiated.

The experience of such economically developed countries as Germany, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, France, and others shows that professional training for work in various fields is carried out today with the help of various educational disciplines. The content of these disciplines is a synthesis of new knowledge about nature, technology, and human activity in all spheres of life. Different terms of technology education are considered as synonyms of one universal goal of labour training by the world scientific and pedagogical community. It is the formation of students’ technological literacy through the development of knowledge and understanding of technology, developing technical skills, and understanding the links between technology and society. The main purpose of primary pupils’ technology education in these countries is the formation of technological literacy and technological competence.

A characteristic trend of the studied countries is that the previously existing labor training in school, based only on the study of materials, tools, and technological processes of materials processing, is considered insufficient and outdated. Thus, the educational process in economically developed countries means primarily students who study changes in technology, and knowledge in this area should be flexible and provide a wide range of applications. Specific emphasis in the curriculum is made on practical activities, which include the following methods: work with means of labour; design product research; excursions and observations; project development; practical assessment; and history of technology development.
CULTURE AND COMMUNICATION CENTRES AT THE FORMER PRODUCTION FACILITIES AS A DRIVER OF THE URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Stavtsev E. , Kolesnikova T.
Published: September 2021

The article reveals the importance of cultural and communication centers in the development of the modern urban environment, outlines their relationship with the existing models of urban development. The prerequisites and reasons for the emergence of creative clusters on the territory of industrial facilities that have lost their original function are considered. The author defines the concept of "cultural and communication center". Several successful domestic examples of the creation of such centers on the site of former or irrationally used production facilities are described. The most important, in the author's opinion, foreign projects of creative spaces are highlighted. Based on domestic and world experience, the features of renovation characteristic of cultural and communication centers have been identified. Developed by the author an experimental project of a cultural and communication center in the city of Oryol on the territory of the former industrial zone "ORLEKS" is described. A pre-design analysis of this territory is presented, taking into account the characteristics that are most essential for the renovation process. It is concluded that the renovation of industrial territories by adapting them to cultural and communication centers increases the efficiency of using the urban area and improves its architectural appearance, promotes the development of small and medium-sized businesses, stimulates the activity of creative communities. In addition, it plays an important role in the formation of cultural identity of the city.
UK Healthcare Workers’ Experiences of Major System Change in Elective Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Reflections on Rapid Service Adaptation
Authors: Singleton Georgina , Dowrick Anna , Manby Louisa , Fillmore Harrison , Syverson Aron , Lewis-Jackson Sasha , Uddin Inayah , Sumray Kirsi , Bautista-González Elysse , Johnson Ginger , Vindrola-Padros Cecilia
Published: September 2021

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted the delivery of elective surgery in the United Kingdom. The majority of planned surgery was cancelled or postponed in March 2020 for the duration of the first wave of the pandemic. We investigated the experiences of staff responsible for delivering rapid changes to surgical services during the first wave of the pandemic in the United Kingdom, with the aim of developing lessons for future major systems change (MSC). Methods: Using a rapid qualitative study design, we conducted 25 interviews with frontline surgical staff during the first wave of the pandemic. Framework analysis was used to organise and interpret findings. Results: Staff discussed positive and negative experiences of rapid service organisation. Clinician-led decision-making, the flexibility of individual staff and teams, and the opportunity to innovate service design were all seen as positive contributors to success in service adaptation. The negative aspects of rapid change were inconsistent guidance from national government and medical bodies, top-down decisions about when to cancel and restart surgery, the challenges of delivering emergency surgical care safely and the complexity of prioritising surgical cases when services re-started. Conclusion: Success in the rapid reorganisation of elective surgical services can be attributed to the flexibility and adaptability of staff. However, there was an absence of involvement of staff in wider system-level pandemic decision-making and competing guidance from national bodies. Involving staff in decisions about the organisation and delivery of MSC is essential for the sustainability of change processes.
What You Don’t Know About the Codex Can Hurt You: How Trade Policy Trumps Global Health Governance in Infant and Young Child Nutrition
Authors: Russ Katheryn , Baker Phillip , Byrd Michaela , Kang Manho , Siregar Rizki Nauli , Zahid Hammad , McCoy David
Published: September 2021

Background: International food standards set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC), have become more prominent in international trade politics, since being referenced by various World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements. We examine how this impacts implementation of the World Health Organization (WHO) International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes. Methods: Using trade in commercial milk formulas (CMFs) as a case study, we collected detailed data on interventions across various WTO bodies between 1995 and 2019. We used language from these interventions to guide data collection on member state and observer positions during the CAC review of the Codex Standard for Follow-up Formula (CSFUF), and during CAC discussions on the relevance of WHO policies and guidelines. Results: Exporting member states made 245 interventions regarding CMFs at the WTO, many citing deviations from standards set by the CAC. These did not occur in formal disputes, but in WTO Committee and Accession processes, toward many countries. In Thailand, complaints are linked to weakened regulation. Exporters also sought to narrow the CSFUF at the CAC in a way that is at odds with recommendations in the International Code. Tensions are growing more broadly within the CAC regarding relevance of WHO recommendations. Countries coordinated during WTO committee processes to advocate for reapportioning core WHO funding to the CAC and in order to further influence standard-setting. Conclusion: The commercial interests of the baby food industry are magnifying inconsistencies between health guidelines set by the WHO, standard-setting at the CAC, and functions of the WTO. This poses serious concerns for countries’ abilities to regulate in the interests of public health, in this case to protect breastfeeding and its benefits for the health of infants, children and mothers.
Microbiological analysis of contact lens cases and effective health behaviors
Authors: Eslami Fatemeh , Ghasemi Basir Hamid Reza , Moradi Abbas , Bayat Mina
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Contact lenses are increasingly being used for cosmetic or therapeutic purposes, followed by subsequent contamination and complications such as keratitis. The lens case is one of the most common places to find the cause of contamination. Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the health behaviors affecting the lens case contamination and its relationship with the result of lens case culture which can help in prevention of complications. Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional study that was performed in northwest of Iran, 150 asymptomatic participants were assessed for health behaviors affecting the lens case contamination and their lens cases were sampled for culture and antibiogram. Data were analyzed with SPSS-16 software. Results: The frequency of positive microbial culture in medical and cosmetic contact lens cases was 30.7% and 66.8%, respectively and 32.7% in general. Among the isolated bacteria observed in positive cultures, Alcaligenes,Enterobacter aerogenes, gram-positive Diphtheroid bacilli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus epidermidis were the most common microorganisms, respectively. Conclusion: A significant proportion of contact lens cases, especially those used for cosmetic purposes had bacterial contamination. Failure to replace the lens case for more than 9 months and the mismatch of the lens solution brand with its storage case will increase bacterial contamination. Washing the lens case with soap and water, and drying it after washing, will reduce bacterial contamination.
Investigation of hematological parameters related to the severity of COVID-19 disease in Mashhad, Iran
Authors: Seddigh-Shamsi Mohsen , Nabavi Mahali Shima , Mozdourian Mahnaz , Allahyari Abolghasem , Saeedian Neda , Emadzade Maryam , Ebrahimzadeh Farnoosh , Javidarabshahi Zahra , Khatami Shohre , Akbari Rad Mina , Ravanshad Sahar , Naghavi Maryam , Mozaheb Zahra , Moeini Nodeh Mohammad , Rahimi Hossein , Bary Alireza , Kamandi Mostafa , Ataei Azimi Sajad , Yaghoubi Mohammad Ali , Rezaei Borojerdi Zahra
Published: September 2021

Introduction:Human coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging respiratory disease that has become pandemic worldwide. The patients have a range of mild to severe symptoms, such as pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, arrhythmia, shock, and other organs involvement. Clinical and hematological evidence can serve as a prognostic factor to detect severe cases of COVID-19. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate hematological parameters related to the severity of the disease in COVID-19 patients in Mashhad, Eastern Iran. Patients and Methods: All the individuals with positive real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction test results and the patients with clinical symptoms whose computed tomography scan results were matched with the diagnosis of viral pneumonia were included in the study. The hematological examinations and complete blood count of the patients were performed by the healthcare personnel through collecting blood samples at the time of admission and discharge from the hospital. Results: In total, 189 COVID-19 patients were included in the study, 47.6% and 58.73% of whom were over 60 years old and male, respectively. Investigation of the hematological parameters revealed that the number of white blood cells, mean value of corpuscular volume, number of platelets, and lymph count had significantly increased at the time of discharge (P<0.01). On the other hand, red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and red cell distribution width values were significantly higher at the time of admission in comparison to discharge (P<0.01). Furthermore, it was found that male gender had a significant relationship with the development of lymphopenia in the patients (P=0.021). Conclusion: It can be concluded that hematological parameters and inflammatory biomarkers in COVID-19 patients could potentially act as the independent factors and affect the prognosis of the disease.
Clinical course and outcome in diabetic patients with COVID-19
Authors: Davoudi Zahra , Alavi Darazam Ilad , Saberian Farnaz , Homaee Sina , Shokouhi Shervin , Shabani Minoosh , Gachkar Latif
Published: September 2021

Introduction: As diabetes is highly prevalent worldwide, understanding particular dimensions of COVID-19 infection in diabetic patients is of significant importance. Objectives: The present research aimed to evaluate the outcome of diabetic patients with COVID-19 infection, and the clinical and biochemical characteristics in survived and non-survived patients. Patients and Methods: The present single-center, cross-sectional study examined laboratory and clinical features of 160 patients with diabetes who had moderate to severe criteria. The obtained data were categorized as survived or non-survived patients and then we compared the clinical characteristics in two groups. Results: In this study, 160 diabetic patients (75 men and 85 women) admitted with moderate to severe Covid-19 were evaluated. The mean age of studied patients was 51-90 years old, with diabetes duration of 5 to 15 years. One hundred thirty-one patients (81.9%) survived, but twenty-nine patients (18.1%) did not survive. Regarding the comparison of symptoms, only the loss of consciousness on admission was higher in non- survived patients; however, a majority of the non-survivors have been admitted to ICU, 23(79.3%) and 26 (89.6%) needed invasive mechanical ventilation; in comparison to survived patients also had a shorter duration of hospital stay (5.5±5.1 versus 8.4±6.1days). Non–survivors more probably suffer from high blood pressure [23 (79.3%) patients versus 80 (61%) patients] and chronic kidney disease [20 (69%) patients versus 9 (6.9%) patients; P<0.001]. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of more than 9%, and high fasting blood sugar, severe inflammatory response, hepatic, renal, and coagulation impairment was higher in non–survived than those who survived. Conclusion: Multifactorial parameters result in the poor prognosis in diabetic patients; therefore, it is critical for identifying the key clinical, as well as laboratory characteristics of COVID-19 cases that lead to severe disease and increase the risk of death.
Conjunctivitis and other ocular manifestation following COVID-19; updated information about transmission of COVID-19 by eye
Authors: Mirshamsi Mohsen , Ghiasi Nasrin , Heidari Sharareh , Hosseinpour Parisa , Hassanlouei Babak , Hashemipour Seyed Mohammad Amin , Samadi Aidenloo Naser , Valizadeh Rohollah
Published: September 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported in Wuhan, in late December 2019 and was became a pandemic health problem worldwide. In this review, the current evidence related to the ocular transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and its common manifestations was studied. According to this review, 7% to 69.4% of patients had at least an ocular symptom following COVID-19. Ocular symptom are bilateral or unilateral conjunctivitis, increased secretion, eye itching and foreign body sensation, epiphora, dry eye, conjunctival congestion, eye pink, conjunctival hyperemia, and chemosis. SARS-CoV-2 particles were found in tears and conjunctiva. Therefore, the transmission of COVID-19 by conjunctiva is possible. Then, it is essential to wear eye shield to protect against developing ocular involvement by COVID-19 because personal glasses and contact lenses cannot protect from COVID-19.
Gut microbiota in COVID-19 treatment
Authors: Sadighpour Tella , Tolouian Audrey
Published: September 2021

A novel coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus [SARS-CoV-2]), has been causing a COVID-19 pandemic of acute respiratory syndrome in humans since December 2019. It appears to be similar in structure to the virus that caused the SARS-CoV outbreak of 18 years ago. However, in addition to the respiratory disorders, the COVID-19 patients might suffer extra-pulmonary disorders, including gut dysfunction or liver dysfunction complications, which show as gut–lung crosstalk. Fecal specimens should be considered as a source of detection of SARS-CoV-2 as one of the routine diagnostic tests in order to guide hospital’s liberation and release of quarantine of patients.
Kidney ultrasound biometric data dynamics in women with gestational hypertension
Authors: Morozova Tatiana Evgenievna , Konyshko Natalya Aleksandrovna , Samokhina Elena Olegovna , Konyshko Artem Sergeevich
Published: September 2021

Introduction: The stable level of morbidity in the Russian Federation of pregnant women with gestational arterial hypertension (GAH) and as a consequence of the disability of women of working age and their offspring actualizes the search for early ultrasound markers of kidney damage as a target organ urgent. Objectives: Despite the variety of publications on ultrasound semiotics of the kidneys, there are no specific biometric parameters of the kidneys in pregnant women without somatic pathology, which actualizes this study. Patients and Methods: A comprehensive clinical examination of 183 outpatients and inpatients (mean age 27.9 ± 4.7 years) with gestational hypertension performed. Results: There is a significant increase in the volume of the right kidney, the left kidney shape index, the diameter of the renal calyces and pelvis, the coefficient of asymmetry, the ratio of the diameter of the renal calyces to the volume of the right kidney with an increase in the degree of gestational hypertension. Conclusion: Structural changes of kidneys are interconnected with hemodynamic parameters observed and can be expressed by mathematical model.
A survey on lymphocyte T CD3, CD4 and CD8 in peripheral blood of kidney transplant recipients using mycophenolic acid
Authors: Dung  Do Thi Mai , An Ha Phan Hai , Le Van Dong , Huynh Quang Thuan
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Immunological monitoring could indirectly measure the suppressive effects of the drugs and provide early guidance on necessary preventive interventions in transplant recipients. Objectives: Our goal was to determine whether mycophenolic acid (MPA) modulates peripheral blood lymphocyte T in kidney transplant recipients. Patients and Methods: We assessed T lymphocytes CD3, CD4 and CD8 in peripheral blood in 30 donors and 35 recipients one day before and 10 days after transplantation using Becton Dickinson’s direct immune fluorescent light. Results: Comparisons showed that the number of T lymphocytes CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ in peripheral blood of transplant recipients were lower than donors (TCD3 was 1690.31±503.45 versus 2280.73± 522.48; TCD4 was 549.51 ±211.72 cell/µL versus 766.37± 341.72 cell/µL and CD8 was 1134.37 ±431.07 cell/µL versus 1523.4± 349.23 cell/µL with P<0.001; P=0.001 and P= 0.0002 respectively). Additionally, post-transplantation lymphocytes TCD4 decreased in 10/35 of recipients and increased in 22/35 of recipients (P=0.036). Conclusion: The T lymphocytes CD3, CD4 and CD8 in peripheral blood should be monitored at multiple post-transplant times to make early predictions of transplant rejection during follow-up treatment.
The coexistence of membranous glomerulonephritis and its cause in the same biopsy: the two faces of IgG4-related kidney disease
Authors: Fortarezza Francesco , Rossini Michele , Grazia Fiore Maria , Piscitelli Domenico , Gesualdo Loreto , Resta Leonardo , Rossi Roberta
Published: September 2021

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a systemic immune-mediated disease characterized by fibroinflammatory tumor-like masses that show the peculiar morphological features of storiform fibrosis, lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates rich in IgG4 positive plasma cells and obliterans phlebitis. The disease affects virtually any organ or apparatus and is often associated with increased serum IgG4 levels. Many previously described conditions (e.g. autoimmune pancreatitis, Mikulicz’s syndrome, Küttner’s tumor, and Riedel’s thyroiditis) are now classified to be part of IgG4-RD with the characteristic clinic, serologic and pathologic features. The kidney represents an important target-organ of the disease, mainly as tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN). Nevertheless, some cases of glomerular disease, especially membranous glomerulonephritis (MNG), have been described in IgG4-related TIN. We report a case of IgG4-related kidney disease in which the two pathological patterns, TIN and MNG, were observed simultaneously in the same biopsy.
Concordance of triage performed with emergency severity index in the emergency departments of Rasoul Akram and Haft Tir hospitals
Authors: Tavakoli Nader , Abbasi Saeed , Tayebi Afrooz
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Triage is prioritizing patients by disease severity in the shortest possible time. Proper triage increases the quality of patient care services, increases patient’s satisfaction, decreases patient waiting time, decreases mortality, and enhances emergency department efficiency. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the concordance of triage performed by nurses with ESI standard, at Rasoul Akram and Haft Tir hospitals, which are the most important educational centers of Iran University of Medical Sciences. Patients and Methods: This is a cross-sectional design study done in 2019. The study population is patients referred to Rasoul Akram and Haft Tir hospitals. A sample of 800 patients was selected. In this study, we determined how triage level were determined and compared with triaging by emergency medicine assistant. Data were analyzed by SPSS 23. Results: Out of 800 samples, the highest triage level was related to level three (79.1%) and levels two, four and one were in the next levels. 13.5% of the cases were not properly triaged according to the ESI standard and the adaptation coefficient (kappa) between the triage level specified in the patient file with the emergency severity index (ESI) triage level between physician and nurse was 58%, which was a significant difference (P<0.001). The relationship between correct triage leveling and patients’ complaints was significant (P<0.001). Conclusion: Nurses triage education about appropriate triage and ESI tool should be one of the most urgent topics and priorities of the studied hospitals. Over triage causes resources wasted and under triage may harm the patient’s health.
Prevalence of benign and malignant tumors in thyroidectomy specimens
Authors: Derakhshan Maryam , Baradaran Azar , Kamrad Faranak , Pezeshki Amir Hossein , Rafiei javazm Amirreza
Published: September 2021

Introduction: The most common type of endocrine malignancy is thyroid cancer (TC). TC is the 7th, 14th, and 11th most common cancer in women, men, and both sexes, respectively. Objectives: The aim of this research was to establish the frequency of benign and malignant tumors in thyroid surgery specimens performed in Al-Zahra hospital in Isfahan from 2011 to 2017. Patients and Methods: This is a retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study. 1345 patients who underwent thyroid surgery were enrolled using census sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (IBM statistics for windows, version 16) using descriptive statistics, mean, standard deviation, frequency, chi-square, and ANOVA. A significance level of less than 0.05 was analyzed. Results: Of 1345 participants, 237 (17.6%) were males, and 1108 (82.4%) were females. The mean age of benign patients was 46.48, malignant 39.31, and healthy patients for 37.50 years. Since the level of significance is less than 0.05, there is a significant relationship between the mean age of patients and the frequency of thyroid surgery specimens. The most prevalent benign and malignant thyroid tumors were goiter (76.8%) and papillary carcinoma (92.6%), respectively. Conclusion: The results showed that there was a significant relationship between age, gender, and benign and malignant type. Also, the most prevalent benign and malignant thyroid tumors were goiter and papillary, respectively.
Examination of IQ in 7 to 14 years old children with sickle cell disease compared with healthy children
Authors: Alghasi Arash , Hassanpour Zohreh , Bahadoram Mohammad , Ashrafi Somayeh , Nourbakhsh Seyed Mohammad Kazem
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder that can be diagnosed by early onset screening tests. In embryos and newborns with sickle cell syndrome, the anatomic development and brain circulation is less than the normal people, and brain circulation plays an important role in brain development. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of IQ in children with SCD. Patients and Patients and Methods: The study was a descriptive-epidemiologic. The population of the present study was all children aged 7-14 years old with SCD in Ahvaz. The sample of this study was 50 children with SCD. They were selected from among clients referring to the hepatitis clinic of Shafa hospital in Ahvaz. About 50 healthy children were selected from the first or second-degree family members of the patients with SCD as the control group. The data was collected using Raven’s Progressive Matrices (RPM) and demographic information questionnaire. Results: The mean and standard deviation of IQ scores of the patients with SCD was 94.52 ± 14.41, and the mean and standard deviation of IQ scores of healthy subjects was 105.86 ± 11.38. The results showed a significant difference between the two groups in terms of IQ score (P<0.05). Moreover, the results showed that IQ level in patients with SCD was significant regarding their place of residence (P<0.05), however IQ level was not significant in patients with SCD regarding gender and race (P>0.05). Conclusion: The results showed that IQ in children with SCD is lower than that of the healthy subjects. Thus, the present study showed the importance of SCD on children’s IQ.
Evaluation of diagnostic value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in younger and older pediatrics suspect to acute appendicitis in Imam Hossein hospital
Authors: Baradaran Azar , Naimi Azar , Pirpiran Elahe , Akhlaghi Masoud
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Acute appendicitis in children is the most common acute surgical condition in children. Each year, 80000 children in the United States suffer from appendicitis. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate diagnostic value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in younger and older pediatrics suspect of acute appendicitis in Imam Hossein hospital. Patients and Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted at Imam Hossein hospital from 2015-2017. The study population was all children with suspected appendicitis who refer to Imam Hossein medical center in Isfahan. The sample size was 423 people. The collected data were imported into SPSS software version 22 and analyzed with appropriate statistical tests. The significance level in the present study was less than 0.05. Results: The average age of participants was 7.2 ± 3.8 years. In both study groups, it was observed that the mean NLR in the normal and reactive follicular groups was significantly lower than the appendicitis and complication groups (P<0.05). The results of the present study showed that NLR diagnostic test can be a good predictor for the evaluation of appendicitis in both groups under 4 years and over 4 years. For more than 4 years’ group; AUC=0.74, P<0.001 and for less than 4 years’ group; AUC=0.69, P<0.001. For less than 4 years’ group, the cut-off score for appendicitis diagnosis was 2.3. In this cut-off, the sensitivity and specificity were equal to 0.65% and 0.72%. Additionally, for more than 4 years’ group, the cut-off for the diagnosis of appendix was 3.5. In this cut-off, the sensitivity and specificity were equal to 0.73% and 67%. Conclusion: This analysis demonstrates that NLR, in the context of appropriate clinical assessment of patients with a high a priori probability of appendicitis, has a greater diagnostic accuracy in supporting the diagnosis of appendicitis.
Relationship of serum irisin levels and various demographic and biochemical factors in non-diabetic hemodialysis patients
Authors: Rafi’i Fereshteh , Hosaini Seyed Mohsen , Yalameha Banafsheh , Nasri Hamid
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Irisin is a myokine secreted from the skeletal muscle. Preliminary studies showed that the serum irisin level was decreased in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly in hemodialysis patients. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the relationship between serum irisin level and different demographic and biochemical factors in non-diabetic hemodialysis patients. Patients and Methods: This study was conducted on 61 non-diabetic stable hemodialysis patients. Serum level of irisin was measured by ELISA method. Demographic information was recorded for all subjects. In addition, biochemical factors were assessed using standard methods. Results: In this study serum irisin level was 8.15±4.24 ng/mL. There were positive correlations of serum irisin with gender (P=0.014) (higher serum value of irisin in males) and hemodialysis doses (r=0.32, P=0.01). Additionally, a negative correlation of serum irisin with body mass index (BMI) was detected (r= 0.26, P=0.036). Conclusion: The positive correlation of serum irisin with hemodialysis doses and a negative correlation of serum irisin with BMI requires further investigations in other patients with more patients.
The relationship between serum vitamin D level and COVID-19; a review study
Authors: Koohshoori Yasaman , Ramanian Ehsan , Moradi Nasrin , Shadabi Shahrzad , Motahhar Minoo , Mousavi Masoumeh Sadat , Banoore Mahmood
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is one of the most important epidemiological events in the past 100 years has become, the consequences for public health and economic systems around the world. Vitamin D is an important micronutrient that has been reported to improve immunity and protect against respiratory diseases. In this study, we intend to review articles that examine the relationship between COVID-19 and vitamin D. Methods: This is a review that uses articles from studies published in 2020 on the relationship between COVID-19 and vitamin D in databases such as; Web of Science, Science Direct, SID, Magiran, Google Scholar and PubMed. Keywords used included; serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, vitamin D, COVID-19, SARS-COV-2 and coronavirus 2. With this search, 32 articles were finally selected for this purpose and their results were reviewed Results: Of the 32 studies reviewed, only three showed no association between vitamin D levels in the blood and COVID-19 disease. Other studies had a relationship between the severity of the disease, mortality rate and length of hospital stay, in different age, gender and location groups. Conclusion: It seems that the level of vitamin D in the blood has a potential effect on COVID-19 disease. Checking the serum vitamin D levels and supplementation in people with hypovitaminosis D can be a good solution to reduce the complications and problems caused by COVID-19.