bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beneficial postoperative micro-rheological effects of intraoperative administration of diclophenac or ischemic preconditioning in patients with lower extremity operations – Preliminary data
Authors: Turchanyi Bela , Korei Csaba , Somogyi Viktoria , Kiss Ferenc , Peto Katalin , Nemeth Norbert
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND: Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) may worsen blood rheology that has been demonstrated by clinical and experimental data. It is also known that anti-inflammatory agents and preconditioning methods may reduce I/R injury. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to analyze hemorheological alterations in elective knee operations and the effects of intraoperative nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) administration and application of ischemic preconditioning. METHODS: Hemorheological variables of 17 patients with total knee replacement or anterior crucial ligament replacement were analyzed. The ischemic (tourniquet) time was 92±15 minutes. Seven patients did not receive NSAID (Control group), 5 patients got i.v. sodium-diclophenac 10 minutes before and 6 hours after reperfusion. Five patients had ischemic preconditioning (3×15 minutes). Blood samples were collected before the ischemia, 10 minutes after reperfusion, on the 1st and 2nd p.o. day. RESULTS: Whole blood viscosity didn’t show notable inter-group differences, except for a slight decrease in the preconditioning group. RBC deformability decreased, erythrocyte aggregation enhanced by the 1st and 2nd p.o. days in Control group. In NSAID and preconditioning groups the changes were moderate, aggregation values significantly lowered compared to the Control group. CONCLUSION: Intraoperatively administered diclophenac or ischemic preconditioning could moderate the deterioration in micro-rheological parameters caused by I/R in patients.
Influence of sterilization conditions on sulfate-functionalized polyGGE
Authors: Zhou Shuo , Xu Xun , Ma Nan , Jung Friedrich , Lendlein Andreas
Published: August 2021

Sulfated biomolecules are known to influence numerous biological processes in all living organisms. Particularly, they contribute to prevent and inhibit the hypercoagulation condition. The failure of polymeric implants and blood contacting devices is often related to hypercoagulation and microbial contamination. Here, bioactive sulfated biomacromolecules are mimicked by sulfation of poly(glycerol glycidyl ether) (polyGGE) films. Autoclaving, gamma-ray irradiation and ethylene oxide (EtO) gas sterilization techniques were applied to functionalized materials. The sulfate group density and hydrophilicity of sulfated polymers were decreased while chain mobility and thermal degradation were enhanced post autoclaving when compared to those after EtO sterilization. These results suggest that a quality control after sterilization is mandatory to ensure the amount and functionality of functionalized groups are retained.
Coronary venous therapy to improve microvascular dysfunction
Authors: Gori T.
Published: August 2021

The coronary circulation is a complex system in which vascular resistances are determined by an interplay of forces in at least three compartments: the epicardial, the microvascular, and the venous district. Cardiologists, and particularly interventional cardiologists, normallly place the focus of their attention on diseases of the epicardial coronary circulation as possible causes of coronary syndromes and neglect the importance of the other two compartments of coronary circulation. The study of the coronary microcirculation, an increasingly recognized source of ischemia, has long been disregarded, but is witnessing a revival since the (re-)introduction of diagnostic tools in the better equipped catheterization laboratories. Unfortunately, to date our understanding of coronary microvascular disease remains incomplete and the numerous proposed classifications fail to reflect its complexity. Further, no specific therapy for these disorders is available. The coronary venous circulation is an even more neglected third vascular district. Its role in regulating coronary resistances is almost completely unexplored, but inital evidence suggests that the modulation of venous pressure might help improve coronary perfusion. Coronary sinus interventions are a group of invasive techniques (both surgical and catheter-based) that are designed to treat ischaemic heart disease by increasing coronary venous pressure and therefore redistributing coronary blood flow towards the endocardium. In this review paper, we revise the role of these interventions with particular focus on acute and chronic coronary microvascular disease.
Effects of Peroral Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial—The OmegAD Study
Authors: Tofiq Avin , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Basun Hans , Cederholm Tommy , Eriksdotter Maria , Faxén-Irving Gerd , Hjorth Erik , Jernerén Fredrik , Schultzberg Marianne , Wahlund Lars-Olof , Palmblad Jan , Freund-Levi Yvonne
Published: August 2021

Background: Studies have suggested a connection between a decrease in the levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We aimed to assess the effect of supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FAs) on biomarkers analyzed in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients diagnosed with AD. Objective: To investigate the effects of daily supplementation with 2.3 g of PUFAs in AD patients on the biomarkers in CSF described below. We also explored the possible correlation between these biomarkers and the performance in the cognitive test Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Methods: Thirty-three patients diagnosed with AD were randomized to either treatment with a daily intake of 2.3 g of n-3 FAs (n  =  18) or placebo (n  =  15). CSF samples were collected at baseline and after six months of treatment, and the following biomarkers were analyzed: Aβ 38, Aβ 40, Aβ 42, t-tau, p-tau, neurofilament light (NfL), chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), soluble IL-1 receptor type II (sIL-1RII), and IL-6. Results: There were no significant differences between the groups concerning the level of the different biomarkers in the CSF at baseline. Within the treatment group, there was a small but significant increase in both YKL-40 (p = 0.04) and NfL (p = 0.03), while the other CSF biomarkers remained stable. Conclusion: Supplementation with n-3 FAs had a statistically significant effect on NfL and YKL-40, resulting in an increase of both biomarkers, indicating a possible increase of inflammatory response and axonal damage. This increase in biomarkers did not correlate with MMSE score.
Functional Neurophysiological Biomarkers of Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease: A Perspective of Network Hyperexcitability in Disease Progression
Authors: Tok Sean , Ahnaou Abdallah , Drinkenburg Wilhelmus
Published: August 2021

Network hyperexcitability (NH) has recently been suggested as a potential neurophysiological indicator of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), as new, more accurate biomarkers of AD are sought. NH has generated interest as a potential indicator of certain stages in the disease trajectory and even as a disease mechanism by which network dysfunction could be modulated. NH has been demonstrated in several animal models of AD pathology and multiple lines of evidence point to the existence of NH in patients with AD, strongly supporting the physiological and clinical relevance of this readout. Several hypotheses have been put forward to explain the prevalence of NH in animal models through neurophysiological, biochemical, and imaging techniques. However, some of these hypotheses have been built on animal models with limitations and caveats that may have derived NH through other mechanisms or mechanisms without translational validity to sporadic AD patients, potentially leading to an erroneous conclusion of the underlying cause of NH occurring in patients with AD. In this review, we discuss the substantiation for NH in animal models of AD pathology and in human patients, as well as some of the hypotheses considering recently developed animal models that challenge existing hypotheses and mechanisms of NH. In addition, we provide a preclinical perspective on how the development of animal models incorporating AD-specific NH could provide physiologically relevant translational experimental data that may potentially aid the discovery and development of novel therapies for AD.
Preventing Delirium and Promoting Long-Term Brain Health: A Clinical Trial Design for the Perioperative Cognitive Enhancement (PROTECT) Trial
Authors: Atkins Kelly J. , Scott David A. , Silbert Brendan , Pike Kerryn E. , Evered Lis
Published: August 2021

Background: Perioperative neurocognitive disorders (PND), including postoperative delirium (POD), are common in older adults and, for many, precipitate functional decline and/or dementia. Objective: In this protocol, we describe a novel multidisciplinary, multicomponent perioperative intervention that seeks to prevent or reduce POD and associated cognitive decline. Methods: We will conduct a prospective, single-blind, pragmatic, randomized-controlled trial to compare our tailored multi-disciplinary perioperative pathway against current standard of care practices. We will recruit a total of 692 elective surgical patients aged 65 years or more and randomize them in a 1:1 design. Our perioperative intervention targets delirium risk reduction strategies by emphasizing the importance of early mobilization, nutrition, hydration, cognitive orientation, sensory aids, and avoiding polypharmacy. To promote healthy behavior change, we will provide a tailored psychoeducation program both pre- and postoperatively, focusing on cardiovascular and psychosocial risks for cognitive and functional decline. Results: Our primary outcome is the incidence of any PND (encapsulating POD and mild or major postoperative neurocognitive disorder) at three months postoperative. Secondary outcomes include any incidence of POD or neurocognitive disorder at 12 months. A specialized delirium screening instrument, the Confusion Assessment Method (3D-CAM), and a neuropsychological test battery, will inform our primary and secondary outcomes. Conclusion: Delirium is a common and debilitating postoperative complication that contributes to the cognitive and functional decline of older adults. By adopting a multicomponent, multidisciplinary approach to perioperative delirium prevention, we seek to reduce the burden of delirium and subsequent dementia in older adults.
Autophagy Induction and Accumulation of Phosphorylated Tau in the Hippocampus and Prefrontal Cortex of Adult C57BL/6 Mice Subjected to Adolescent Fluoxetine Treatment
Authors: Sierra-Fonseca Jorge A. , Rodriguez Minerva , Themann Anapaula , Lira Omar , Flores-Ramirez Francisco J. , Vargas-Medrano Javier , Gadad Bharathi S. , Iñiguez Sergio D.
Published: August 2021

Background: Fluoxetine (FLX) represents the antidepressant of choice for the management of pediatric mood-related illnesses. Accumulating preclinical evidence suggests that ontogenic FLX exposure leads to deregulated affect-related phenotypes in adulthood. Mood-related symptomatology constitutes a risk-factor for various neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), making it possible for juvenile FLX history to exacerbate the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Objective: Because AD is characterized by the pathological accumulation of hyperphosphorylated tau, which can result from impaired function of protein degradation pathways, such as autophagy and the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), we evaluated the long-term effects of adolescent FLX exposure on these pathways, using mice as a model system. Methods: We subjected C57BL/6 adolescent male mice to FLX (20 mg/kg/day) from postnatal day (PD) 35 to PD49. Twenty-one days after the last FLX injection (i.e., adulthood; PD70), mice were euthanized and, using immunoblotting analysis, we evaluated protein markers of autophagy (Beclin-1, LC3-II, p62) and the UPS (K48-pUb), as well as AD-associated forms of phosphorylated tau, within the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Results: Juvenile FLX pre-exposure mediated long-term changes in the expression of protein markers (increased LC3-II and decreased p62) that is consistent with autophagy activation, particularly in the prefrontal cortex. Furthermore, FLX history induced persistent accumulation of AD-associated variants of tau in both the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex Conclusion: Adolescent FLX treatment may have enduring effects in the neuronal protein degradation machinery, which could adversely influence clearance of abnormal proteins, potentially predisposing individuals to developing AD in later life.
Depressive Symptoms Imputed Across the Life Course Are Associated with Cognitive Impairment and Cognitive Decline
Authors: Brenowitz Willa D. , Zeki Al Hazzouri Adina , Vittinghoff Eric , Golden Sherita H. , Fitzpatrick Annette L. , Yaffe Kristine
Published: August 2021

Background: Depressive symptoms may increase risk for dementia, but findings are controversial because late-life depression may be a prodromal dementia symptom. Life course data on depression and dementia risk may clarify this association; however, data is limited. Objective: To impute adult depressive symptoms trajectories across adult life stages and estimate the association with cognitive impairment and decline. Methods: Using a pooled study of 4 prospective cohorts (ages 20–89), we imputed adult life course depressive symptoms trajectories based on Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale-10 (CESD-10) and calculated time-weighted averages for early adulthood (ages 20–49), mid-life (ages 50–69), and late-life (ages 70–89) for 6,122 older participants. Adjusted pooled logistic and mixed-effects models estimated associations of imputed depressive symptoms with two cognitive outcomes: cognitive impairment defined by established criteria and a composite cognitive score. Results: In separate models, elevated depressive symptoms in each life stage were associated with cognitive outcomes: early adulthood OR for cognitive impairment = 1.59 (95%CI: 1.35,1.87); mid-life OR = 1.94 (95%CI:1.16, 3.26); and late-life OR = 1.77 (95%CI:1.42, 2.21). When adjusted for depressive symptoms in the other life-stages, elevated depressive symptoms in early adulthood (OR = 1.73; 95%CI: 1.42,2.11) and late-life (OR = 1.43; 95%CI: 1.08,1.89) remained associated with cognitive impairment and were also associated with faster rates of cognitive decline (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Imputing depressive symptom trajectories from pooled cohorts may help expand data across the life course. Our findings suggest early adulthood depressive symptoms may be a risk factor for cognitive impairment independent of mid- or late-life depressive symptoms.
An Online, Person-Centered, Risk Factor Management Program to Prevent Cognitive Decline: Protocol for A Prospective Behavior-Modification Blinded Endpoint Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lim Yen Ying ,   on behalf of the BetterBrains Research Group, Ayton Darshini , Perin Stephanie , Lavale Alexandra , Yassi Nawaf , Buckley Rachel , Barton Christopher , Bruns Loren , Morello Renata , Pirotta Stephanie , Rosenich Emily , Rajaratnam Shantha M.W. , Sinnott Richard , Brodtmann Amy , Bush Ashley I. , Maruff Paul , Churilov Leonid , Barker Anna , Pase Matthew P.
Published: August 2021

Background: Several modifiable risk factors for dementia have been identified, although the extent to which their modification leads to improved cognitive outcomes remains unclear. Objective: The primary aim is to test the hypothesis that a behavior modification intervention program targeting personalized risk factors prevents cognitive decline in community-dwelling, middle-aged adults with a family history of dementia. Methods: This is a prospective, risk factor management, blinded endpoint, randomized, controlled trial, where 1510 cognitively normal, community-dwelling adults aged 40–70 years old will be recruited. Participants will be screened for risk factors related to vascular health (including physical inactivity), mental health, sleep, and cognitive/social engagement. The intervention is an online person-centered risk factor management program: BetterBrains. Participants randomized to intervention will receive telehealth-based person-centered goal setting, motivational interviewing, and follow-up support, health care provider communication and community linkage for management of known modifiable risk factors of dementia. Psychoeducational health information will be provided to both control and intervention groups. Results: The primary outcome is favorable cognitive performance at 24-months post-baseline, defined as the absence of decline on one or more of the following cognitive tests: (a) Cogstate Detection, (b) Cogstate One Card Learning, (c) Cogstate One Back, and (d) Cognitive Function Instrument total score. Conclusion: We will test the hypothesis that the BetterBrains intervention program can prevent cognitive decline. By leveraging existing community services and using a risk factor management pathway that tailors the intervention to each participant, we maximize likelihood for engagement, long-term adherence, and for preserving cognitive function in at-risk individuals.
Incremental Healthcare Utilization and Cost Burden of Comorbid Insomnia in Alzheimer’s Disease Patients
Authors: Qureshi Zaina P. , Thiel Ellen , Nelson James , Khandker Rezaul
Published: August 2021

Background: Insomnia is associated with worsened clinical outcomes among Alzheimer’s disease dementia (AD) patients, increased caregiver burden, and healthcare utilization. Objective: This study aimed to characterize the incremental healthcare burden of insomnia in AD using real-world data. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on AD patients selected from the IBM® MarketScan Commercial and Medicare Supplemental Databases. AD patients with claims-based evidence of insomnia were direct matched to a non-insomnia cohort based on demographic factors. Healthcare utilization and associated costs were assessed for a 12-month follow-up period. Results: A total of 3,500 insomnia AD patients and 9,884 non-insomnia AD patients were analyzed. The insomnia cohort had a higher comorbidity burden at baseline (mean score on Charlson Comorbidity Index 2.5 versus 2.2, p < 0.001) and higher proportions of patients with baseline diagnoses for other conditions including depression: 40%, insomnia cohort versus 25%, non-insomnia (p < 0.001). AD patients with insomnia were more likely to have a claim for inpatient hospitalizations (39.8%versus 32.3%), emergency room services (56.4%versus 48.0%), and skilled-nursing services (42.6%versus 31.9%) (all p < 0.05). Mean total annual healthcare costs during the 12-month follow-up period were significantly higher among AD patients with insomnia as compared to those without. (Mean costs: $37,356 versus $27,990, p < 0.001). Conclusion: AD patients with comorbid insomnia are more likely to use higher-cost healthcare services such as inpatient hospitalization, and skilled nursing, and have higher total healthcare costs. This real-world analysis provides evidence that AD disease management should consider proper treatment of comorbid insomnia due to the incremental burden and cost implications.
Using a Signal Flow Analysis to Develop Prototypes of Sensing Machine Elements
Authors: Kirchner Eckhard , Schork Stefan , Vorwerk-Handing Gunnar , Vogel Sven
Published: August 2021

A mandatory requirement for the concept of intelligent systems and of digital or cyber-physical twins is the availability of high-quality data. Therefore, the authors investigate the possibility to integrate sensors, actuators and information technologies in standardized machine elements such as screws, bearings and couplings. In this paper, the focus is on sensing machine elements, which are a sub-category of mechatronic machine elements. To gain insights about those in development as well as to verify and validate their functionality, prototypes are needed. Those prototypes should help the designer to gain knowledge about the product in development and they should preferably be developed with low efforts. Therefore, a method is proposed to analyse concepts of mechatronic machine elements, especially sensing machine elements, regarding critical aspects that may interfere with the functionality of the product. The method is based on analysing the flow of the signal that is used for the measurement, starting from its mechanical origin and ending at the analysis unit. Different examples of sensing machine elements are given in this article and the respective flow of the usable signal is analysed, leading to the identification of subsystems that can be tested individually. Based on this, prototypes for the subsystems are developed and introduced.
Law of large numbers for the sequence of uncorrelated fuzzy random variables
Authors: Guan Li , Zhang Jinping , Zhou Jieming
Published: August 2021

This work proposes the concept of uncorrelation for fuzzy random variables, which is weaker than independence. For the sequence of uncorrelated fuzzy random variables, weak and strong laws of large numbers are studied under the uniform Hausdorff metric d H ∞ . The results generalize the law of large numbers for independent fuzzy random variables.
Time for a New 3-D Image for Globus Pallidus Internus Deep Brain Stimulation Targeting and Programming
Authors: Wong Joshua K. , Hilliard Justin D. , Holanda Vanessa M. , Gunduz Aysegul , Wagle Shukla Aparna , Foote Kelly D. , Okun Michael S.
Published: August 2021

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective neuromodulatory therapy for Parkinson’s disease (PD). Early studies using globus pallidus internus (GPi) DBS for PD profiled the nucleus as having two functional zones. This concept disseminated throughout the neuromodulation community as the “GPi triangle”. Although our understanding of the pallidum has greatly evolved over the past 20 years, we continue to reference the triangle in our clinical decision-making process. We propose a new direction, termed the spatial boundary hypothesis, to build upon the 2-dimensional outlook on GPi DBS. We believe an updated 3-D GPi model can produce more consistent, positive patient outcomes.
An old entity, a new trigger: Post COVID-19 vaccine pityriasis rubra pilaris
Authors: Sahni Mukesh Kumar , Roy Kanika , Asati Dinesh Prasad , Khurana Ujjawal
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND: Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is a rare, acquired, chronic papulosquamous dermatosis which can occur in all ages. PRP can be associated with infection, autoimmunity, drugs and malignancies, and can be idiopathic. OBJECTIVE: PRP following vaccination has been rarely described in the literature. To the best of our knowledge, we report the first case of PRP two weeks following COVID-19 vaccination (Covishield). CASE REPORT: A 72-year-old male presented to the outpatient dermatology department at All India Institute of Medical Sciences – Bhopal with minimally pruritic superficial plaques since one week. The patient was vaccinated against COVID-19 with Covishield two weeks earlier. The lesions developed as erythematous scaly follicular papules and plaques over axilla that rapidly spread to the trunk in the following weeks and involved palms and soles as well as thickening and fissuring. The clinical features suggested PRP. The histopathology showed epidermal acanthosis with hypergranulosis alternating with parakeratosis and orthokeratosis with broad rete ridges with follicular plugging. The patient had started taking topical corticosteroids and emollients, which proved effective. There was no recurrence after receiving a second dose on follow-up. CONCLUSION: In patients presenting with new onset PRP in this COVID-19 era, the possibility of vaccine as a trigger should be taken into consideration, and further dosing should be carefully monitored in view of possible recurrence.
A review on the role of CAFs and CAF-derived exosomes in progression and metastasis of digestive system cancers
Authors: Zarin Bahare , Rafiee Laleh , Daneshpajouhnejad Parnaz , Haghjooy Javanmard Shaghayegh
Published: August 2021

Cancers evolve as a result of the accelerated proliferation of cancer cells in a complicated, enriched, and active microenvironment. Tumor microenvironment (TME) components are the master regulators of any step of cancer development. The tumor microenvironment is composed of many cellular and noncellular components that contribute to the evolution of cancer cells. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are activated fibroblasts in the TME that implicate in tumor progression and metastasis dissemination through secretion of oncogenic factors which are carried to the secondary metastatic sites through exosomes. In this review, we aimed to assess the role of CAF-derived exosomes in TME construction and pre-metastatic niche formation in different cancers of the digestive system in order to better understand some important mechanisms of metastasis and provide possible targets for clinical intervention. This review article is divided into two thematic parts explaining the general mechanisms of pre-metastatic niche formation and metastasis and the role of CAF-derived exosomes in different digestive system cancers including colorectal, gastric, esophageal, pancreatic, and liver cancers.
COVID-19 anxiety and hygiene status in vocational schools of health services students in Turkey: A multicenter study
Authors: Pirincci Edibe , Arca Muhammed , Sen Mehmet Ali , Atici Erhan , Varsak Suleyman , Yarasir Ezgi , Kurt Osman , Oguzoncul Ayse Ferdane , Deveci Suleyman Erhan
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND: While the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic creates fear and anxiety on the students’ academic achievement, the risk of an infectious disease may negatively affect education by reducing the concentration ability of students. Thus, it is essential to evaluate the knowledge, behaviors, anxiety levels, and hygiene status of students. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, behavior change, anxiety, and hygiene status of university students about COVID-19. METHODS: The investigation was conducted with students of three vocational schools of health services located in different provinces of Turkey (n = 1055). Data collected by an online survey consisted of knowledge questions about COVID-19, items about behavior change, the hygiene behavior scale (HBS), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7) scale. RESULTS: The knowledge scores of women were significantly higher than the scores of men. Of the students, 59.6%showed positive hygiene behaviors, and 31.5%had anxiety. Female students’ total HDC scale score was significantly lower than that of men, and the total HDC scale score of those who received hand hygiene education was significantly lower than that of participants who did not receive training, which shows a positive hygiene behavior. The total GAD-7 scale score of women was significantly higher than that of men. More than half of the students showed positive hygiene behaviors, and about a third had anxiety. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the study’s results, psychological support and training should be provided to students.
Assessment of healthcare professionals’ perceptions and attitudes towards the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey
Authors: Türktemiz Halil , Ünal Özgün , Aydın Dilek Bingöl
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND: Determining the healthcare professionals’ perceptions and attitudes towards the COVID-19 pandemic will contribute to managing and struggling their efforts against COVID-19. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the perceptions and attitudes of healthcare professionals who are at the forefront in the fight against this pandemic. METHODS: In the study, the survey technique used as the data collection method and 216 participants agreed to participate. The questionnaire consisted of three sections. Reliability analysis and descriptive statistical methods used to analyze the data obtained using the SPSS package program. RESULTS: According to the study results, 80.4%of the participants perceive the probability of being infected with the COVID-19 to be very high, and 64%of them consider that the conditions are very favorable for them to be infected. More than half of them are afraid of being infected and believe that if they contract COVID-19, adverse effects may continue for a long time. Furthermore, almost all participants (96.20%) consider personal protective equipment beneficial and will protect them from the COVID-19 as a wise preventive measure. However, 82.30%of the participants stated that using personal protective equipment is uncomfortable, and 76.60%said it is challenging to take care of patients while using personal protective equipment. CONCLUSIONS: The current study results show that healthcare professionals are aware of how serious COVID-19 is, understand the importance of protective equipment in protection from COVID-19, and are seriously afraid of COVID-19. Given that the fears of healthcare professionals may have adverse effects on them, it is recommended that healthcare administrators take measures to comfort healthcare workers and ensure that they maintain their positive attitude towards COVID-19.
Job satisfaction and creativity at work among occupational therapy practitioners: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Oven Alenka , Domajnko Barbara
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND: Creativity is essential to the work of occupational therapy practitioners. Nonetheless, little is known about the way it influences their work satisfaction. OBJECTIVE: This study explores several internal and external factors related to organizational, personal, and socio-relational sources of creativity. Our main hypothesis was that occupational therapy practitioners are more satisfied when creative. METHODS: A mixed-methods study included a qualitative (n = 22) and a quantitative (n = 250) phase. Data were gathered using focus group interviews and an online survey, where a novel assessment instrument –the Creativity in Occupational Therapy Questionnaire –was administered. RESULTS: The synthesis of the results revealed that factors connected with the client, the practitioner’s personal characteristics, the work environment, relationships with colleagues and relationships with superiors all influenced the creativity of occupational therapy practitioners, in negative or positive ways. Professional autonomy and a supportive work environment were found to be important for the creativity of occupational therapy practitioners. Creativity at work had a statistically significant influence on work satisfaction of occupational therapy practitioners (B = 0.575, t = 6.267, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate the importance of creativity for job satisfaction of occupational therapy practitioners and suggest a dynamic reciprocal relationship between different factors and circumstances that should be considered when fostering creativity at work.
Automated vessel segmentation in lung CT and CTA images via deep neural networks
Authors: Tan Wenjun , Zhou Luyu , Li Xiaoshuo , Yang Xiaoyu , Chen Yufei , Yang Jinzhu
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND:

The distribution of pulmonary vessels in computed tomography (CT) and computed tomography angiography (CTA) images of lung is important for diagnosing disease, formulating surgical plans and pulmonary research.

PURPOSE:

Based on the pulmonary vascular segmentation task of International Symposium on Image Computing and Digital Medicine 2020 challenge, this paper reviews 12 different pulmonary vascular segmentation algorithms of lung CT and CTA images and then objectively evaluates and compares their performances.

METHODS:

First, we present the annotated reference dataset of lung CT and CTA images. A subset of the dataset consisting 7,307 slices for training and 3,888 slices for testing was made available for participants. Second, by analyzing the performance comparison of different convolutional neural networks from 12 different institutions for pulmonary vascular segmentation, the reasons for some defects and improvements are summarized. The models are mainly based on U-Net, Attention, GAN, and multi-scale fusion network. The performance is measured in terms of Dice coefficient, over segmentation rate and under segmentation rate. Finally, we discuss several proposed methods to improve the pulmonary vessel segmentation results using deep neural networks.

RESULTS:

By comparing with the annotated ground truth from both lung CT and CTA images, most of 12 deep neural network algorithms do an admirable job in pulmonary vascular extraction and segmentation with the dice coefficients ranging from 0.70 to 0.85. The dice coefficients for the top three algorithms are about 0.80.

CONCLUSIONS:

Study results show that integrating methods that consider spatial information, fuse multi-scale feature map, or have an excellent post-processing to deep neural network training and optimization process are significant for further improving the accuracy of pulmonary vascular segmentation.
ANALYSIS OF DISSERTATIONS SUBMITTED TO THE SPECIALIZED SCIENTIFIC COUNCIL D26.056.09 AT THE KNUCA IN 2019-2021
Authors: Isayev Alexander , Cherednichenko Petro
Published: August 2021

The results of the work of the Specialized Scientific Council at Kyiv National University of Civil Engineering and Architecture for the period from 2019 to 2021 are outlined. The main components of the defended dissertations are considered.
APPLICATION OF NEURO-FUZZY MODELS IN THE SYSTEM FOR ASSESSING THE PROFESSIONAL ABILITIES OF APPLICANTS
Authors: Riabchun Yuliia , Skrypak Roman , Riabchun Olena , Aznaurian Iryna
Published: August 2021

The work is devoted to solving a problem of assessing the professional abilities of entrants to higher education institutions. The subject of the study is the process of automatic support of entrants' decisions in conditions of fuzzy uncertainty caused by the need to communicate "online". The object of the study is a supporting means of the decisions of applicants to choose the direction of study "online". The main purpose of the work is to substantiate the technology of decision support for choosing a direction of study using an infocommunication system, the work of which has based on a neuro-fuzzy output system. Particular attention has paid to overcoming the problems that accompany the creation of infocommunication systems, which has designed to support decision-making on the choice of field of study in conditions of unclear uncertainty caused by the limitation of offline communication. The article presents the results of a study of the criteria for admission to higher education institutions in different countries. The structural model of the Specialized Intellectual System of Identification of Abilities of Entrants has offered. The system has designed to support the decision to choose a specialty of higher education institution. It has shown that to substantiate the recommendation conclusion based on the results of professional game; it is advisable to use a fuzzy neural network Takagi-Sugeno-Kanga. To solve the problem of substantiation of expert decisions at the stage of formation of a priori base of rules of fuzzy knowledge base of fuzzy inference system, it is expedient to use Mamdani model, which operates with linguistic variables and fuzzy sets.
THE NEW METHOD FOR ACCURACY ASSESSMENT OF IMAGE CLASSIFICATION OBTAINED USING UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES BASED ON A WEIGHTED CONFUSION MATRIX AND ITS ACCURACY COEFFICIENTS
Authors: Alpert Sofiia
Published: August 2021

The proposed new method for accuracy assessment of image classification in UAV-based Remote Sensing can be applied in solution of different ecological and practical tasks. Nowadays thematic maps play an important role in solution of different remote sensing tasks. Thematic maps are applied for forest classification, determing of soil types and properties, environmental monitoring, exploring of oil and gas. That’s why the accuracy assessment is necessary to evaluate the quality of thematic maps. It is important to know the accuracy of thematic maps before they are used for further scientific investigations. Users and producers of maps compare several maps to see which is best, or to check how well they agree. It was proposed to use Weighted confusion matrix for accuracy assessment of thematic maps. Proposed Weighted confusion matrix was considered with Confusion matrix. It was noted, that Confusion matrix needs in large samples and can not take into account the “seriousness” of errors. It also were shown main advantages of Weighted confusion matrix. It was noted, that Weighted confusion matrix gives different weights for different mistakes of classification. Proposed Weighted confusion matrix gives a partial credit for classification results. This property of the Weighted confusion matrix is very important, when not all mistakes are equally serious and rough for user. Proposed method uses the Weights matrix for Confusion matrix that contains weights for each element in the Confusion matrix. Accuracy coefficient of the Weighted confusion matrix, such as: Overall accuracy, User’s accuracy, Producer’s accuracy and Weighted average of the weights for each class and their main properties were described in this work too. It was also considered a numerical example of calculation of accuracy coefficients of Weighted confusion matrix. This proposed new method for accuracy assessment of image classification can be applied in land-cover classification, environmental monitoring, exploring for minerals, numerous agricultural tasks.
SIMULATION OF THE INITIAL STAGE OF ENGINEERING NETWORK DESIGN
Authors: Poltorachenko Natalia
Published: August 2021

The work contains an analysis of the current state of centralized utilities, which form the basis of engineering networks in the country. The problems actualizing questions of mathematical modeling of system process of designing of new and reconstruction of old engineering networks in the conditions of their perspective development are resulted. The analysis of researches in the field of designing of engineering networks taking into account uncertainty of the information is given. The main material of the article is devoted to the construction of a mathematical model of the problem of distribution of work volumes at different stages of construction or reconstruction of the engineering network, taking into account the long-term development of the system. The list of questions to be answered when designing a network is given. A topological model of the design area is proposed. It consists of sites for which design is carried out, indicators of reliability of assignment of design sites to various stages of construction or reconstruction of an engineering network, quality criteria and characteristics of resource constraints. The basic mathematical model of the problem is built, which takes into account the conditions of perspective development of the engineering network. It is solved by Boolean programming methods. Another view of the introduced variables is offered, which allows to consider them as functions of belonging of sites of the territory of designing to this or that stage of construction or reconstruction of an engineering network. The introduction of indicators of reliability of the design sites to different stages of construction or reconstruction of the engineering network leads to the discontinuous nature of the allowable values of variables, which makes the task dichotomous. The solution to this problem is the problem of partial-integer linear programming. Another approach to taking into account the uncertainty of information at the initial stages of design of engineering networks – the use of algebra of interval numbers. With the help of interval numbers it is possible to reproduce the expert opinion on the scattering of the initial data. The analysis of efficiency of application of interval algebra is resulted and formulated the need for further research on this topic.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SERUM D DIMER LEVELS WITH QUANTIFICATION OF ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE
Authors: Sisodia Vipin , Khoiwal Rajesh , Sharma Somshekhar
Published: August 2021

Background: Acute ischemic stroke has been known to be a severely debilitating affliction with a steep disability and co-morbidity curve. Various tools and methods have been attempted to ascertain if the diagnosis and prognosis of stroke can be achieved faster as it aids in effective management as well as reduces the resultant damage to the brain. Aim: The present study was designed to assess if serum D Dimer levels can be used as a marker as well as a volumetric determinant of stroke. Methods: The study involved a patient pool of 50 patients and corresponding controls who were matched for age and gender. The data collected included demographic data, baseline clinical parameters, serum D Dimer levels and a radiological assessment of the volume of infract. Findings: The study revealed that a relationship exists between the levels of circulating D Dimer and DW MRI weighted images showing infarcts. The relationship was direct in nature. Conclusion: D Dimer levels can provide a estimate of the area under infarction and thus prove to be a prognostic as well as diagnostic marker.
Keywords: Acute ischaemic Stroke, D Dimer, Volumetric Association
TO STUDY RIGHT VENTRICLE (RV) AND LEFT VENTRICLE ( LV) DYSFUNCTION IN TRANSFUSION DEPENDENT BETA THALASSEMIA CHILDREN AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN NORTH WEST RAJASTHAN
Authors: Kulhari Sandeep , Choudhary Deepak , Choudhary Dinesh , Gupta Himanshu , Patel Rajneesh , Bugalia Jaipal , Budania Sunil , Berwal P K
Published: August 2021

Background- Regular blood transfusions used for long term survival in  ß-thalassemia major patients cause a secondary state of tissue iron overload. Myocardial iron deposition can result in cardiomyopathy, and heart failure remains the leading cause of death. This study was planned to see the Right Ventricle (RV) and Left Ventricle(LV)dysfunction in beta thalassemia  transfused patients.

Method- Patients of ß thalassemia major above 2 years of age received regular blood transfusions at least for 1 year duration, attending OPD in the Department of Pediatrics, S P Medical College, Bikaner were included.Echo  was  correlated with serum ferritin Level(SFL).

Results- Tissue Doppler imaging(TDI) parameters of 50 patients at mitral annulus e.g. Em septal, Em Lateral, Am septal, Am lateral, Sm Septal and Sm Lateral were abnormal(<2SD and >2SD)in 70% & 0%, 50% & 4%, 10% & 46%, 34% & 24%, 40% & 22% and 60% & 10% patients respectively.TDI parameters at tricuspid valvee.g. Et, At and St were abnormal(<2SD)in 98%, 96% and 98% patients respectively. The differences in mean values of Et, At and St, when compared in the SFL groups <2500,2500-5000 and>5000, was non significant(p>0.05).

Conclusion- TDI is superior to conventional echocardiography in giving an early evidence of diastolic myocardial dysfunction in asymtopmatic and normal LV function patients.TDI can be applied as an integrated part of assessment of children & adolescents with ß-thalassemia. Septal Sm, Em & lateral Em, Sm, Am and RV Et, At, St were reduced early in majority of patients. Our study showed early involvement of septum and RV in thalassemic patients.

Key Words: ß-thalassemia major ;Right Ventricle (RV) and Left Ventricle ( LV) dysfunction; Echocardiogram ;Tissue Doppler Imaging
E-GOVERNMENT AS A METHOD FOR LEGAL COMMUNICATION BETWEEN CIVIL SOCIETY AND PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Authors: Makeieva Olena , Shapenko Liudmyla , Vodolaskova Kateryna
Published: August 2021

E-government is a form of public administration which promotes efficiency, openness and transparency of public authorities and local governments with the use of information and telecommunications technologies to form a new type of state focused on meeting the needs of citizens. E-government is studied as a way, a form, the concept, system and mechanism of cooperation between the state (public administration) and public sectors (civil society). As a method for legal communication between civil society and public administration, e-government plays the role of a means of public self-government, which involves interactivity and continuity of interaction between citizens and the state, the presence of public control over the activities of public authorities. This article is dedicated to reveal the role of e-government for realizing the goals of legal communication between its participants in public life. However, further in-depth analysis requires understanding the role of e-government as a means of legal communication, changing the focus and direction of its development in the digital age, as well as exploring promising areas of legal regulation of virtual legal relations between public authorities and civil society. The implementation of e-government in Ukraine should be provided on a qualitatively new level to develop efficient legal communication between government and society as a whole, strengthen confidence in the state and its policies, improve cooperation between public authorities and local governments, business, citizens and civil servants. The authors of this article adhered to its purpose, which is to analyze the understanding of the role of e-government as a means of legal communication, changing the focus and direction of its development in the digital age, and exploring promising areas of legal regulation of virtual legal relations between government and civil society.
THE GIST OF THE WORLD CUSTOMS ORGANIZATION
Authors: Perepolkin Serhii , Trostianska Polina
Published: August 2021

In this article there is for the first time offered a theoretical justification for understanding the purpose (goals), tasks and functions of the World Customs Organization as interrelated categories. Emphasis is placed on the fact that the explanation of the essence of any international organization should begin with a description of its purpose (goals), objectives and functions. The position of the authors was formed taking into account the results of the generalization of doctrinal approaches of scientists to understand the essence of the World Customs Organization. Particular attention was paid to the characteristics of the provisions of the Convention establishing the Customs Cooperation Council of December 15, 1950, which is a constituent act of the World Customs Organization, as well as other international conventions, resolutions, declarations and recommendations adopted by this organization. It is emphasized that in contrast to the list of functions of the organization were specified in Art. III of the Convention establishing the Customs Cooperation Council of December 15, 1950, in its text there is no clear and unambiguous statement of the purpose (goals) and objectives of WCO. As a result of the study, the authors note that the purpose of WCO determines the desired result, the achievement of which should be aimed at the activities of the organization and is to promote cooperation between the governments of its members. And the achievement of this goal necessitates the solution of common tasks for WCO members, which specify the purpose of the organization. It was also investigated that the WCO objectives provided for in the Preamble to the Convention on the Establishment of Customs Cooperation Council do not exhaust their full list, the gradual expansion of which takes place through the adoption of legal acts by the WCO Council. It is also determined that objectives of WCO are subordinated to the functions of WCO.