bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self Reported Hearing Impairments And Associated Risk Factors Among Metal And WoodWork Workers in Gondar Town, North West Ethiopia, 2020.
Authors: Abera Eshetu , Yallew WalelegnWorku , Wami Sintayehu Daba
Published: April 2021

Background

Globally, the prevalence of occupational noise-induced hearing loss ranges from 16–24%. Moreover, occupational noise exposure is a major public health problem among metal and woodwork workers in sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. However, there is limited evidence about the risk of hearing impairments and level of noise exposure in Ethiopia.
Methods

In this cross-sectional study 580 metal and woodwork employees in Gondar town were surveyed from February10-March 25/2020. The data were collected through an interviewer-administered questioner and the noise exposure level was measured using an ICE 651 type II sound pressure level meter. The data were entered into EPI info version7 and analyzed using SPSS20 version software. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with hearing impairments.
Result

The overall prevalence of self-reported hearing impairment was 20.7% [95%CI: (17.4–24)]. From the total participants, 11.2% of the woodwork and 9.5% of metal workers reported hearing impairments. The mean (± SD) noise exposure level in both industries was 96.63 ± 3.7 dBA. Listening to music using earphones for more than two hours per day [AOR = 5.33, 95% CI (1.29, 21.9)] and playing music with loud volume (AOR = 3.75 (1.13, 12.43) were significant risk factors for hearing impairments.
Conclusion

The prevalence of hearing impairment is comparable in metal and woodwork worker, but higher noise exposure level is recorded in woodwork industry and the majority of the employees exposed to the noise level above the permissible exposure limit. Therefore, the hearing conservation program shall be implemented in both wood and metalwork industries.
Development and Validation of a Nomogram for Predicting Postoperative Pulmonary Infection in Esophageal Cancer
Authors: LI Shuang , Su Jingwen , Sui Qiyu , Wang Gongchao
Published: April 2021

Objective: The main aim of this study is to construct and validate a nomogram for estimating the risk of POI by investigating how perioperative features contribute to POI. Material and Methods: This cohort study enrolled 637 patients with esophageal cancer. Perioperative information on participants were collected to develop and validate a nomogram for predicting postoperative pulmonary infection in esophageal cancer. Predictive accuracy, discriminatory capability and clinical usefulness were evaluated by calibration curves, concordance index (C-index) and decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that length of stay, albumin, intraoperative bleeding, and perioperative blood transfusion were independent predictors of POI. The nomogram for assessing individual risk of POI indicated good predictive accuracy in the primary cohort (C-index, 0.802) and validation cohort (C-index, 0.763). Good consistency between predicted risk and observed actual risk was presented as the calibration curve. The nomogram for estimating POI of esophageal cancer had superior net benefit with a wide range of threshold probabilities (4–81%). Conclusions: The present study provided a nomogram developed with perioperative features to assess the individual probability of infection may conducive to strengthen awareness of infection control and provide appropriate resource to manage patients at high-risk following esophagectomy.
Long-Term Outcomes in COVID-19 ICU Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Veenendaal Nadine Van , Meulen Ingeborg Van der , Onrust Marisa , Paans Wolter , Dieperink Willem , Voort Peter Van der
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUNDThe COVID-19 pandemic causes high rates of intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. After ICU-discharge patients and family members can suffer from persisting impairments known as ‘Post Intensive Care Syndrome’ (PICS) and PICS-family. Since COVID-19 is relatively new, there is barely any knowledge on the long-term outcomes of COVID-19 ICU-survivors and their family members.OBJECTIVESThis study aims to gain insight in the long-term physical, social and psychological functioning of COVID-19 ICU-survivors and their family members at three- and six-months following ICU discharge.METHODSA single-center, prospective cohort study was conducted in COVID-19 ICU-survivors and their family members. Enrolled participants received questionnaires at three and six months after ICU discharge. The MOS Short-Form General Health Survey, Clinical Frailty Scale, spirometry tests, McMaster Family Assessment Device (FAD-GF6+), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and return to work were used to evaluate physical, social and psychological functioning.RESULTSSixty COVID-19 ICU-survivors and 78 family members participated. Physical functioning was impaired in ICU-survivors as reflected by a score of 33.3 (IQR 16.7-66.7) and 50 (IQR 16.7-83.3) on the physical functioning subscale at 3- and 6-months follow-up respectively. Diffusion lung capacity was reduced in 69% of patients. Ninety percent of the ICU-survivors reported persistent symptoms after 6 months. Social functioning was impaired as 90% of the COVID-19 ICU-survivors did not reach their pre-ICU employment level, 6 months after ICU-discharge. Psychological functioning in ICU-survivors was normal. Family members experienced worse employment status in 35% and 34% including a decrease in employment rate of 18.3% and 7.4% at 3- and 6-months post ICU-discharge, respectively. Psychologically, 63% of the family members reported ongoing impaired well-being due to the COVID-19 related mandatory physical distance to their relatives.CONCLUSIONWe have shown that COVID-19 ICU-survivors suffer from a prolonged burden of disease, prominent in physical- and social functioning, worse employment status and persisting symptoms in 90%. In addition, family members also report long term effects expressed by a reduction in return to work and impaired well-being. Further research needs to extend the follow up and to study the effects of standardized rehabilitation in COVID-19 patients and their family members.
The Effect and Underlying Mechanism of Statins in the Prevention of Post-Contrast Acute Kidney Injury: A Multicenter Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Lin Maoning , Xu Tian , Zhang Wenjuan , Li Duanbin , Li Ya , Hong Xulin , Luan Yi , Zhang Wenbin , Wang Min
Published: April 2021

Background: Post-Contrast acute kidney injury (PC-AKI) is a severe complication of coronary angiography (CAG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). At present, the mechanism and effect of statins on PC-AKI and its mechanism are still unclear. Methods: It was a multicenter retrospective obeservational study. We reviewed 4386 patients who underwent CAG or PCI, with serum creatinine recorded pre- or post-procedure within 72hrs after PCI, from December, 2006 to December, 2019 admitted to Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and its medical consortium hospitals. Multivariate logical regression was used to explore whether preoperative use of statins was a protective factor for PC-AKI, and then path analysis model was used to explore the specific mechanism of statins. Results: In total, 4386 patients were enrolled in the study, the mean age was 67 yrs old, 17.9% with PC-AKI, 83.3% with pre-operative statin therapy. The incidence of PC-AKI was significantly lower in statin therapy group than non-statins therapy group. Multivariate regression indicated that pre-operative statin therapy was significantly negatively associated with percentage of elevated creatinine (β: -0.118, p<0.001) and PC-AKI (OR: 0.575, p<0.001). In pre-operative statin therapy group, no statistically significant deference was detected between atorvastatin and rosuvastatin group (OR: 1.052, p=0.558). Pathway model analysis indicated the direct protective effectiveness of pre-operative statin therapy on PC-AKI (p<0.001), but neither with its lipid-lowering effect (p=0.277) nor anti-inflammatory effect (p=0.596). Furthermore, It was found that “LDL-C→CRP” mediated the relationship between pre-operative statin therapy and PC-AKI (p=0.007); however, only explained less than 1% of the pre-operative statin therapy’s protective effects on PC-AKI. Conclusion: Pre-operative statin therapy is an independent protective factor of PC-AKI, which is not affected by the type of statins and not achieved by lipid-lowering effect or anti-inflammatory effect. Keywords : post-contrast acute kidney injury, statins, path analysis, mediation analysis.
Development of Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo) Lines Carrying Vat Gene with Favorable Fruit Traits
Authors: Jariani Parisa , Ramshini Hossein , Lotfi Mahmoud , Amini Fatemeh , Abtahi Hassan , Ahmadvand Rahim
Published: April 2021

The most popular Iranian cantaloupe ‘Samsoori’ is highly susceptible to devastating viruses transmitted by Aphis gossypii. A dominant gene (Vat) causing resistance to the aphid and viruses was detected in ‘Ginsen Makuwa’ in spite of its low fruit quality. They were crossed and the segregating offspring were assessed for combining favorable traits with Vat gene. In the F2 population, moderate to high broad-sense heritability estimates were found for measured traits including, fruit weight (0.78) and soluble solid content (SSC) (0.7). The F3 families were significantly different from each other for earliness, fruit shape indices, cavity, flesh thickness, SSC, and fruit numbers per plant. Resistant and susceptible plants were determined by genotyping 210 plants in F4 generation using a dominant DNA marker for the resistant allele of Vat gene. Out of 15 selected F3 families, four were susceptible, three were homozygote resistant and six showed segregation in their progeny for the Vat gene. Selection assisted by Vat gene marker was a very useful and applied approach for the identification of healthy plants along with phenotypic selection.
Changes in soil physicochemical properties and soil bacterial community in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) / oat (Avena nuda L.) intercropping system
Authors: Liu Xiaojing , Zhao Yajiao , Tong Changchun , Wu Yong
Published: April 2021

Aims Semi-arid region in northwest China is characterized by barren soil, high soil pH and high carbonate content.Methods In order to improve the soil health status in this area, we studied the effects of alfalfa/oat intercropping on rhizosphere soil nutrients and bacterial community by Illumina MiSeq technology in the 3rd year.Results The results showed that SOM significantly increased in the rhizosphere soil of intercropped compared with monoculture. AN, AP and AK of intercropping were significantly higher than those of monoculture of oat. Bacterial reads number, population taxonomic unit, richness and diversity all showed that intercropping were greater than monoculture. In terms of bacterial phylum, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Chloroflexi, Actinobacteria, Planctomycetes and Acidobacteria were dominant populations. The abundances of Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Cyanobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes were greater in intercropping systems than that in monoculture systems. At genus level, Opitutus, Pseudomonas, Gemmatimonas and Flavobacterium in intercropping were all higher than those in monoculture. At the same time, proteobacteria, bacteroidetes and actinobacteria were significantly positively correlated with SOM, TN and AN.Conclusions This result indicated that alfalfa/oat intercropping can reduce the pH and significantly improve the microbial environment and nutrients of rhizosphere soil in northwest semi-arid region. Meanwhile, the rhizosphere soil microbial community and nutrients interact and regulate each other. Therefore, alfalfa/oat intercropping is an effective measure that improve soil environment in northwest semi-arid region.
Agrochemical properties of soils of land plots of the Park «Tikhiy Otdykh» of Saint Petersburg
Authors: Ковязин В.Ф. , Демидова П.М. , Иванова Е.А.
Published: April 2021

Статья посвящена актуальной проблеме формирования устойчивости парковых насаждений, произрастающих на почвах с различными физико-химическими свойствами. Приведены характерные агрохимические свойства почв парка «Тихий отдых» Санкт-Петербурга. По каждому агрохимическому показателю почвы разработаны с использованием современных географических информационных систем (ГИС) тематические карты в масштабе 1:10000 с применением программного комплекса AutoCAD. С использованием данного комплекса рассчитаны площади земельных угодий, имеющих различные физико-химические свойства почвы. В настоящее время данная проблема городских садово-парковых объектов мало изучена и требует дальнейших исследований, именно этой тематике и посвящены изложенные в статье результаты исследований.

The article is devoted to the current problem of forming the stability of Park stands growing on soils with different physical and chemical properties. The characteristic agrochemical properties of the soils of the Park «Tikhiy Otdykh» of St. Petersburg are given. For each agrochemical indicator of the soil, thematic maps were developed using modern geographical information systems (GIS) at a scale of 1:10000 using the AutoCAD software package. Using this complex, the areas of land with different physical and chemical properties of the soil are calculated. At present, this problem of urban garden and Park objects is poorly studied and requires further research. These results presented in the article are devoted to this topic.
Towards quality charcoal briquettes
Authors: Павлов Н.А. , Спицын А.А. , Минич М.И. , Бахтиярова А.В.
Published: April 2021

Исследовались характеристики и свойства древесно-угольных брикетов, используемых для кальянокурения, влияющие на их эксплуатационные возможности. Проведён сравнительный анализ древесно-угольных брикетов из кокосового, берёзового и соснового сырья. Кокосовый уголь является дорогостоящим сырьём. Предложено заменить кокосовый уголь на берёзовый, что экономически целесообразно. Для получения образцов угля проведён пиролиз кокоса, берёзы и сосны. Полученные образцы в дальнейшем исследовались методами ТГА и ДТГ. Определялись влажность, зольность, содержание нелетучего углерода. Проведено исследование, моделирующее рабочее состояние брикета, что позволило определить важнейшие характеристики древесно-угольного брикета используемого для кальянокурения. Выявлено, что основными эксплуатационными характеристиками являются: запах и прочность брикета в рабочем состоянии, характер разрушения при интенсивном воздействии воздухом. Определено влияние на качество брикетов следующих факторов: сырьё для угля, фракционный состав угля, тип связующего, количество связующего, давление прессования. Полученные брикеты из берёзового угля не уступают кокосовым брикетам по ряду характеристик, что позволяет снизить затраты на изготовление древесно-угольных брикетов при использовании берёзового сырья вместо кокосового. Выявлена перспектива использования берёзового угля в качестве замены кокосовому, а также предложена формула получения конечного продукта.

The work investigated the characteristics and properties that affect the operational capabilities of charcoal briquettes used for hookah smoking. A comparative analysis of charcoal briquettes from coconut, birch and pine raw materials. The main raw material for the production of hookah briquettes is coconut coal, which is an expensive raw material. The paper proposes to replace coconut coal with birch, which is economically feasible. To obtain coal samples, pyrolysis of coconut, birch and pine was carried out. The obtained samples were further investigated by the TGA and DTG methods, moisture, ash, and non-volatile carbon content were determined. A study simulating the working condition of the briquette was carried out, which made it possible to determine the most important characteristics of the charcoal briquette used for hookah smoking. It is revealed that the main operational characteristics are: the smell and durability of the briquette in working condition, the nature of the destruction under intense exposure to air. The influence of the following factors on the quality of briquettes was determined: raw materials for coal, fractional composition of coal, type of binder, amount of binder, pressing pressure. The obtained birch charcoal briquettes are not inferior to coconut briquettes in a number of characteristics, which allows to reduce the cost of producing charcoal briquettes when using birch raw materials instead of coconut. The prospect of using birch coal as a substitute for coconut coal is revealed, and a formula for obtaining the final product is also proposed.
Organization of activities of TB medical units in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Baryshnikova L. A. , Kabaeva M. N. , Voekova N. A. , Loginova N. A. , Sirotko I. I.
Published: April 2021

The article analyzes the organization of work of N.V. Postnikov Samara Regional Clinical TB Dispensary in 2020. The special procedure has been developed for COVID-19 tests in patients referred to TB department. All cases of the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) in tuberculosis patients that occurred in the Samara region in 2020 (n = 31) were studied. Infection control activities are the following: separate filter boxes have been provided for personnel and patients in each department; two observational departments have been organized where patients are admitted depending on the type of medical care. The polymerase chain reaction has been used to examine patients for COVID-19 before admission to TB hospital for planned medical care, and express tests for immunoglobulins M and G have been used when patients were admitted in an emergency. Of the 30 cases of intravital detection of concurrent infections (tuberculosis + COVID-19), in 56.7% (17 people), COVID-19 was treated in the in-patient unit specializing in treatment of the new coronavirus infection, and in 43.3% (13 people), treatment was outpatient; lethality made 1/30 (3.33%).
Tolerability of individual chemotherapy regimens in children suffering from respiratory tuberculosis and exposed to multiple and extensive drug resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Gubkinа M. F. , Khokhlovа Yu. Yu. , Petrаkovа I. Yu. , Yukhimenko N. V.
Published: April 2021

The objective of the study: to assess the tolerability of anti-tuberculosis drugs (TB drugs) in children with respiratory tuberculosis and exposure to multiple and extensive drug resistant tuberculosis treated by individual chemotherapy (CT) regimens.

Subjects and methods: Totally, 89 children (2-12 years old) with respiratory tuberculosis, they all were exposed to multiple and extensive drug resistant tuberculosis. Patients were divided into three groups: Group 1 (17 patients) – minor forms, the chemotherapy regimen consisted of 3 TB drugs, Group 2 (35 patients) – limited lesions, the chemotherapy regimen consisted of 4 TB drugs, Group 3 (37 patients) – the disseminated disease, the chemotherapy regimen consisted of 5 TB drugs. The following TB drugs were used in Group 1: Pto ‒ in 94.1%, Z ‒ in 76.5%, PAS ‒ in 76.5%, Am – in 35.3%, E – in 17.6%, and Cs – in 5.9% of cases. In Group 2: PAS – in 94.3%, Z – in 80.0%, Pto – in 68.6%, Am – in 48.6% and Fq – in 45.7%, Cs ‒ in 37.1%, and E – in 25.7% of cases. In Group 3: Z – in 97.3%, PAS – in 89.2%, Pto – in 81.1%, Fq ‒ in 73.0%, Am – in 70.3%, Cs – in 51.4%, and E – in 37.8% of cases.

Results. In general, chemotherapy was well tolerated by 50.6% (45 people) of children, and poorly - by 49.4% (44 people), p> 0.05. Toxic reactions were observed statistically significantly more often versus allergic ones: 63.6 ± 7.3% (28 persons) and 36.4 ± 7.3% (16 persons), p < 0.05. The culprits drugs causing toxic reactions were prothionamide (24 patients), pyrazinamide (2 patients), cycloserine (1 patients), and levofloxacin (1 patients), toxic reactions - amikacin (16 patients). Adverse reactions statistically significantly more often occurred when five-component regimen (67.6 ± 7.7%) was used versus three- and four-component regimens (29.4 ± 11.4 and 40.0 ± 8.3%, respectively), p <0.05.
Contemporary aspects of tuberculosis in children without BCG vaccination
Authors: Kondаkovа M. N. , Аgаfonovа A. N. , Zаkhаrovа O. P. , Kovаlevа R. G. , Elkin A. V. , Khаbirov V. V.
Published: April 2021

The objective of the study: to analyze the changes in tuberculosis incidence among children not vaccinated with BCG taking into account clinical and epidemiological indicators.

Subjects and methods. The data of 66 children who were not vaccinated with BSG and developed tuberculosis were analyzed. The data were obtained from medical files of St. Petersburg TB Dispensary from 2006 to 2019 inclusive.

Results. From 2006 to 2019 in St. Petersburg, 66 children not vaccinated with BCG fell ill with tuberculosis, of them, 44 (66.7%) cases were detected in 2013-2019, and the major reason (22.7%) of the lack of BCG vaccination was the unmotivated refusal of parents.

The incidence of complicated course of tuberculosis in unvaccinated children made 45.4%. In the structure of medical contraindications to BCG vaccination, HIV infection was the most prevalent (58.2%), including both as prenatal exposure to the mother and HIV positive status of the child.

In 61.4% of cases, unvaccinated children who developed tuberculosis were exposed to adult tuberculosis patients.

The lethal outcome (for the period 2013-2019) was registered in 3/44 children, all under 1 year, all had a congenital pathology which made the cause of death.
Specific parameters of iron metabolism in tuberculosis
Authors: Аbdullаev R. Yu. , Komissаrovа O. G. , Terentievа O. R.
Published: April 2021

The review presents data from 55 publications about specific parameters of iron metabolism in the human body including those ill with tuberculosis. It describes processes aimed at isolating iron from pathogens and promoting the acquisition of iron by pathogens from the host. A decrease in the level of iron circulating in the blood serum in the case of tuberculosis is primarily a component of the systemic inflammatory response and belongs to the mechanisms of innate immunity that limit the reproduction of an infectious agent in the human body. However, its true deficiency can be involved in the decrease in the level of circulating iron.
Current Controlling Challenges in Small and Medium-sized Companies on the Specific Example of Falling Profits and Accurate Sales Planning in a Family Business
Authors: Moser Martin A.
Published: April 2021

The globalization of the markets is not only a challenge for large companies. Small and medium-sized companies are also becoming more involved in new markets more than assumed and statistically recorded. They are required to position themselves more strongly on foreign markets due to increased competitive pressure, insufficient potential on the domestic market and narrower fields of market activity. Small and medium-sized companies are only exposed to minimal obligations under commercial law. This is due to their size, the organizational form and the lack of reference to the capital market. Since the annual balance sheet is often created with the aim of tax directives, there is only limited adequate reflection on the business profitability of the organization. A detailed internal cost accounting only exists in exceptional cases and cost monitoring is only carried out on the basis of historical data and not on a planned cost basis. This paper deals with a concrete practical question from the topic of controlling and the analysis of an existing company based on the organization’s financial documents. On the basis of the results and statements available, the objective of this paper is to develop recommendations for action for the supervisory board and then to discuss and evaluate them accordingly.
The Level of Corporate Social Responsibility Implementation in all Social Responsibility Aspects in Jordan’s Zain Telecommunication Company
Authors: Noor Ahmad Mahmood Alkhudierat
Published: April 2021

A relatively new concept in the business world, corporate social responsibility (CSR) has resonated widely in the global economy. As well as integrating into the cultures of many organizations, CSR has become an important business strategy component of corporations worldwide. Many large companies in Jordan realize the importance of adopting social responsibility, especially companies that help build society as well as develop and increase productivity by providing distinct programs for small projects, as these contribute to solving problems of unemployment and poverty. This study explores the extent to which Zain Telecom in Jordan covers the three aspects of social responsibility in the same depth and level. The research methodology is qualitative analytical and is based on secondary data such as previous studies and the analysis of Zain’s annual report of social responsibility for 2018. The study concluded that the abovementioned company is significantly concerned with the social and employee aspects of CSR, but pays little attention to environmental aspects. The study made a number of recommendations, including focusing on all dimensions of social responsibility equally.
Impact of UV irradiation on disinfection by-product formation and speciation from post-chlorination of dissolved organic matter
Authors: Zhao Ziming , Ray Madhumita B. , Mao Ted , Sun Wenjun
Published: April 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of combined low-pressure ultraviolet (UV)irradiation and chlorination on the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) from different dissolved organic matter (DOM) as DBP precursors. Commercially available humic acid (HA), extracellular organic matter (EOM) from green algae, cyanobacteria, and diatom, namely Scenedesmus quadricauda (SQ), Merismopedia sp. (Msp), and Phaedactylum tricornutum (PT), were used as the sources of DOM. The DBP formation increased with increasing total residual chlorine; EOM from PT presented the highest formation potential followed by HA, Msp, and SQ. The low dosage of 40 mJ/cm2 UV irradiation is insignificant to change the DBP formation from HA and SQ; however, it decreased the DBP formation from bromide-containing EOM of PT and promoted the DBP formation from EOM of Msp at various total residual chlorines. The DBP formation of each DOM correlated well with total residual chlorine. The maximum DBP formation potential (DBPFP) reduction of 42.25 and 13.75% for haloacetic acid formation potential (HAAFP) and trihalomethane formation potential (THMFP) was obtained at the UV irradiation dosage of 300 mJ/cm2 for EOM of PT. However, for the EOM derived from Msp, a maximum increase of 58.1 and 51.1% for HAAFP and THMFP was observed after UV-chlorination.
An entropy-based approach for the optimization of rain gauge network using satellite and ground-based data
Authors: Bertini Claudia , Ridolfi Elena , de Padua Luiz Henrique Resende , Russo Fabio , Napolitano Francesco , Alfonso Leonardo
Published: April 2021

Accurate and precise rainfall records are crucial for hydrological applications and water resources management. The accuracy and continuity of ground-based time series rely on the density and distribution of rain gauges over territories. In the context of a decline of rain gauge distribution, how to optimize and design optimal networks is still an unsolved issue. In this work, we present a method to optimize a ground-based rainfall network using satellite-based observations, maximizing the information content of the network. We combine Climate Prediction Center MORPhing technique (CMORPH) observations at ungauged locations with an existing rain gauge network in the Rio das Velhas catchment, in Brazil. We use a greedy ranking algorithm to rank the potential locations to place new sensors, based on their contribution to the joint entropy of the network. Results show that the most informative locations in the catchment correspond to those areas with the highest rainfall variability and that satellite observations can be successfully employed to optimize rainfall monitoring networks.
Numerical investigation of the turbulence characteristics and energy dissipation mechanism of baffle drop shafts
Authors: Yang Qinghua , Yang Qian
Published: April 2021

The baffle drop shaft is widely used in deep tunnel drainage systems due to its fine applicability and high energy dissipation. To fully study the turbulence characteristics and energy dissipation mechanism of baffle drop shafts, a 1:25 scale physical model test and a numerical simulation based on the Realizable k-ε model and Volume of Fluid (VOF) method were performed. The results showed that a baffle spacing that is too dense or too sparse is not conducive to energy dissipation and discharge. The minimum baffle spacing is the optimal structural design at the design flow rate when the flow regime is free-drop flow. The energy dissipation calculation model established in this paper has high accuracy for calculating the energy dissipation rate on the baffles in free-drop flow. The energy dissipation modes of the shaft can be divided into inlet energy dissipation, baffle energy dissipation, and shaft-bottom energy dissipation. Baffles play a major role in the energy dissipation at low flow rates, and the proportions of inlet and shaft-bottom energy dissipation increase with the increase in flow rate.
Enhanced removal of cadmium from wastewater with coupled biochar and Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Ding Jing , Chen Weiguang , Zhang Zilan , Qin Fan , Jiang Jing , He Anfei , Sheng G. Daniel
Published: April 2021

Shortcomings of individual biochar or microbial technologies often exist in heavy metal removal from wastewater and may be circumvented by coupled use of biochar and microorganisms. In this study, Bacillus subtilis and each of three biochars of different origins (corn stalk, peanut shell, and pine wood) were coupled forming composite systems to treat a cadmium (Cd, 50 mg/L) wastewater formulated with CdCl2 in batch tests. Biochar in composite system enhanced the activity and Cd adsorption of B. subtilis. Compared with single systems with Cd removal up to 33%, the composite system with corn stalk biochar showed up to 62% Cd removal, which was greater than the sum of respective single B. subtilis and biochar systems. Further analysis showed that the removal of Cd by the corn stalk composite system could be considered to consist of three successive stages, that is, the biochar-dominant adsorption stage, the B. subtilis-dominant adsorption stage, and the final biofilm formation stage. The final stage may have provided the composite system with the ability to achieve prolonged steady removal of Cd. The biochar-microorganism composite system shows a promising application for heavy metal wastewater treatment.
A participação cidadã na perspectiva de uma cidade inteligente
Authors: Ferreira Andrea Cristina Lima Duarte , Coelho Taiane Ritta
Published: April 2021

Este projeto se propõe a investigar o meio pelo qual gestores públicos procuram estreitar sua relação com os cidadãos em uma cidade inteligente, envolvê-los e aproximá-los da tomada de decisão. Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo analisar o impacto da participação cidadã na escolha das prioridades orçamentárias destinadas ao desenvolvimento da cidade de Curitiba, na perspectiva de uma cidade inteligente, utilizando para isso a plataforma de participação, on line, Fala Curitiba. O Fala Curitiba – Programa de Consulta Pública Municipal é o modelo de consultas públicas da Prefeitura Municipal de Curitiba, no qual a população participa de maneira decisiva da construção das peças orçamentárias do Município. Como o foco principal de discussão são as áreas da informação, tecnologia e gestão, a pesquisa será realizada por meio de um estudo de caso, utilizando uma abordagem com enfoque exploratório de forma descritiva e analítica dos fenômenos observados. Como resultados pretende-se demonstrar que a participação cidadã em plataformas tecnológicas busca um aumento da contribuição do cidadão, o seu engajamento na construção de políticas públicas, a proximidade e o entendimento das limitações orçamentárias de uma cidade inteligente. Contudo, será necessário demonstrar os benefícios e os desafios da implementação de uma plataforma de participação, visando a produção coletiva e os resultados obtidos, obtendo com isso a ampliação da participação popular, o empoderamento do cidadão em relação a tomada de decisão no governo e a ampliação do uso da tecnologia para todos.
Retinoblastoma brachytherapy (literature review)
Authors: Kotova E. S. , Yarovoy A. A. , Volodin D. P. , Kotelnikova A. V.
Published: April 2021

Данный обзор литературы посвящен проблеме брахитерапии у больных ретинобластомой и включает обобщенные данные об истории развития метода и его эффективности, технике операции, видах офтальмоаппликаторов и радиоизотопов, рекомендуемых дозах облучения и возможных осложнениях. Особое внимание в данной статье уделено изотопам рутения (Ru-106) и стронция (Sr-90) ввиду их использования на территории Российской Федерации. Для формирования обзора были использованы отечественные и зарубежные источники литературы, опубликованные в период с 1931 г. по настоящее время.
Ortaokullarda Görev Yapan Öğretmenlerin Örgütsel Güven Algıları
Authors: Karakuş Burak , Doğan Soner
Published: April 2021

Bu araştırmada, ortaokullarda görev yapan öğretmenlerin çeşitli değişkenlere göre örgütsel güvene ilişkin algılarını nın değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır. Tarama modeline göre desenlenen araştırmanın çalışma grubunu 2018-2019 eğitim-öğretim yılında Sivas il merkezindeki 14 ortaokulda görev yapan 278 öğretmenin tamamı oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada veri toplama aracı olarak Yılmaz (2006) tarafından Türkçe' ye uyarlanan ''Örgütsel Güven Ölçeği'' kullanılmıştır. Örgütsel güven ölçeği 3 boyutlu olup toplam ölçeğin güvenirlik katsayısı .91 olarak belirlenmiştir. Veriler SPSS (Statistical Packet for Social Students) 18 programı kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir. Araştırma bulgularına göre ortaokulda görev yapan öğretmenleri örgütsel güvene ilişkin genel algısı yüksek düzeydedir. Alt boyutlar bazında incelendiğinde ise paydaşlara güven boyutu hariç (orta düzey) diğer alt boyutlardaki örgütsel güven puanları yüksek düzeyde olduğu saptanmıştır. Ortaokul öğretmenlerinin algıları medeni durum, eğitim durumu ve branş değişkenlerine göre anlamlı bir farklılık göstermemiştir. Cinsiyet, yaş, meslekteki hizmet süresi ve okuldaki hizmet süresi değişkenlerine göre ortaokul öğretmenlerinin görev yapılan okullarının örgütsel güvene ilişkin algılarında anlamlı bir farlkılığın olduğu sonucu ortaya çıkmıştır. Araştırmanın son değişkeni olan okuldaki hizmet süresi değişkeninde ise belirlenen anlamlı farklılığın paydaşlara güven boyutunda olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Sonuç olarak, öğretmenlerin çalışma ortamlarında örgütsel güven algılarını olumlu yönde geliştirmek amacıyla okul ortamında öğretmenlerin daha çok etkileşime girebilecekleri organizasyonların hayata geçirilmesi önerilebilir.
Regulatory Considerations, Challenges and Risk-based Approach in Nanomedicine Development
Authors: Csóka Ildikó , Ismail Ruba , Jójárt-Laczkovich Orsolya , Pallagi Edina
Published: April 2021

The translation of nanomedicines from the lab level into marketed product
faces several challenges, including characterization of physicochemical properties, pharmacodynamics,
pharmacokinetics, process control, biocompatibility, and nanotoxicity,
scaling-up as well as reproducibility. The challenges of nanomedicine development are
in connection with the different requirements from the patient (clinical and therapeutic
use), industry (production), and regulatory bodies (authorization process). This paper
aims at reviewing the status and regulatory aspects of nano-based drug delivery systems
with a focus on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicine
Agency (EMA) regulations. In addition to discussing the risks accompanied by the development
of nanomedicine, the potential of following a risk-based methodology from the
early stage of the R&D phase is emphasized here to ensure safety and efficacy when developing
novel nano-based dosage forms. The R&D of nanomedicines is a complex and
multidisciplinary approach, and there are still many challenges in their regulation and legislation.
In general, the most critical considerations for nanomedicines are the product
quality assessment (physicochemical characteristics, quality control, manufacturing process)
and product safety assessment (pharmacokinetics, biodegradation, accumulation,
and nanotoxicity). The paper presents a promising paradigm in the development and marketing
authorization of nanomedicines, namely the Quality by Design (QbD) approach.
Sufficient knowledge on the quality, safety, and efficacy of nanomedicines is necessary
to obtain a significant focus on establishing robust, standardized methods for evaluating
the critical quality attributes of nanomedicines. The QbD-based submission is highly recommended
and required by the regulatory authorities, enabling a smooth clinical translation
of the novel nanomedicines.
Torasemide in Hypertension and Heart Failure: Re-inventing Loop Diuretic Therapy?
Authors: Manolis Athanasios , Kallistratos Manolis , Doumas Michael
Published: April 2021

In heart failure (HF) patients, current European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines recommend
the use of three loop diuretics (furosemide, torasemide, bumetanide) in order to not only reduce HF hospitalizations
but also improve symptoms and exercise capacity in patients with signs and/or symptoms of congestion.
In addition, for the first time in hypertensive patients, European Society of Hypertension (ESH) guidelines recommend
the use of torasemide. This review aimed to summarize the mode of action of loop diuretics, to present
their pharmacokinetic characteristics, and to discuss their place in the management of arterial hypertension
and heart failure, with special emphasis however on torasemide.
Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Alzheimer’s Disease: Current
Advances
Authors: Sharma Smriti
Published: April 2021

:

The recent developments in the field of extracellular vesicles (EVs) point to
their potential use for predicting and treating neurodegenerative diseases. This review
focusses on the importance and latest advances in this field, especially with respect to
Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Increasing evidence shows that the progression of amyloidbeta
and tau brain pathology is correlated to the cognitive decline associated with AD.
Lot of experimental data suggests the involvement of EVs with these processes, for
instance EVs are known to circulate the misfolded proteins involved in AD. The currently
available information on the role of EVs in neurodegenerative disorder especially in AD
have also presented the knowledge gaps on which future research efforts should be
focused.
Radiological Assessment of Giant Cell Tumour of Bone in the Sacrum: From Diagnosis to Treatment Response Evaluation
Authors: Langevelde Kirsten van , Vucht Niels Van , Tsukamoto Shinji , Mavrogenis Andreas F. , Errani Costantino
Published: April 2021

:

Giant cell tumour of bone (GCTB) typically occurs in young adults from 20-40 years
old. Although the majority of lesions are located in the epi-metaphyses of the long bones, approximately
one third of tumours are located in the axial skeleton, of which only 4% in the sacrum.
Sacral tumours tend to be large at the time of presentation, and they present with aggressive features
such as marked cortical destruction and an associated soft tissue component. The 2020 World
Health Organisation classification of Soft Tissue and Bone Tumours describes GCTB as a neoplasm
which is locally aggressive and rarely metastasizing. The tumour contains three different cell
types: neoplastic mononuclear stromal cells, macrophages and osteoclast-like giant cells. Two tumour
subtypes were defined: conventional GCTB and malignant GCTB. Only 1-4% of GCTB is
malignant. In this review article, we will discuss imaging findings at the time of diagnosis to guide
the musculoskeletal radiologist in reporting these tumours. In addition, imaging for response evaluation
after various treatment options will be addressed, such as surgery, radiotherapy, embolization
and denosumab. Specific findings will be presented per imaging modality and illustrated by cases
from our tertiary sarcoma referral center. Common postoperative and post-radiotherapy findings in
GCTB of the sacrum on MRI will be discussed.
A Low-Fat Diet Combined with Moderate-Intensity Aerobic Exercise is More Effective than a Low-Fat Diet or Aerobic Exercise Alone on Dyslipidemia and Depression Status in Obese Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Abdelbasset Walid Kamal , Nambi Gopal , Alsubaie Saud F. , Elsayed Shereen H. , Eid Marwa M. , Soliman Gaber S. , Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Abdelaziz Mohamed A.
Published: April 2021

Background::

Exercise and dietary interventions are used to control dyslipidemia and depression
in obese individuals, whilst rare investigations have examined the concurrent effects of a
low-fat diet and moderate-intensity aerobic exercise training (MIAET) on dyslipidemia and depression
in obese patients. Hence, we assessed the potential influences of a low-fat diet combined with
MIAET on blood lipids and depression in those individuals.

Methods::

Forty-two obese patients aged 30-50 years have been enrolled in this randomized controlled
trial. They have been randomized equally into MIAET group (n=14, 60-70% of the maximum
heart rate (Max HR), three sessions a week), a low-fat diet group (n=14, fat, 30% Kcal/day),
and a low-fat diet plus MIAET (n=14) for 10 consecutive weeks. Body mass index (BMI), lipid
profile, and Hamilton depression rating scale (HDRS) have been assessed on two occasions, pre
and post- 10 weeks.

Results::

It was demonstrated that a low-fat diet group showed an improvement in total cholesterol
(T-Ch), p=0.046, with no changes in triglycerides (TGs), p=0.343, low-density lipoproteins (LDLs),
p=0.187, and high-density lipoproteins (HDLs), p=0.224; however, MIAET group showed an
improvement in TGs, p=0.042, HDLs, p=0.038 with no changes in T-Ch, p=0.126, and LDLs,
p=0.368. Regarding the low-fat diet plus MIAET group, significant improvements were identified
in TGs, p=0.003, T-Ch, p<0.001, LDLs, p=0.004, and HDLs, p<0.001. For the depression status,
all groups showed a significant improvement in HDRS, p<0.001, with a low-fat diet plus MIAET
group showing greater advantages, p<0.05.

Conclusion::

The results of the current trial suggest an important implication for promoting improvement
in blood lipids and a reduction in depression status in obese patients with dyslipidemia
following 10-week of a concurrent low-fat diet and moderate-intensity aerobic exercise more than
low-fat diet or MIAEt alone.
Exploring Therapeutic Potential of Invasomes, Transfersomes, Transethosomes,
Oleic Acid Vesicles, and Cubosomes Adopting Topical/Transdermal
Route
Authors: Verma Shivani , Utreja Puneet
Published: April 2021

Background:

Transdermal drug delivery is considered a better alternative to oral administration
of drugs like proteins or peptides that are susceptible to extensive degradation via first pass
metabolism. This delivery route also shows high patient compliance due to no use of painful injections.
Conventional delivery systems like creams and gel show poor skin permeation and high dosing
frequency.

Objective:

The objective of this work was to investigate the role of highly advanced micro and
nanocarrier systems like invasomes, transfersomes, transethosomes, oleic acid vesicles, and cubosomes
for transdermal drug delivery exploring literature survey.

Methods:

Literature survey for these advanced micro and nanocarrier systems was carried out using
search engines like Pubmed and Google scholar.

Results:

Results of literature investigations revealed that advanced micro and nanocarrier systems
discussed earlier have the caliber to enhance skin permeation of various bioactives, show sustain release,
and target particular areas of skin better compared to old nanocarriers like liposomes.

Conclusion:

The present review concludes that advanced micro and nanocarrier systems like invasomes,
transfersomes, transethosomes, oleic acid vesicles, and cubosomes are better alternatives
for transdermal delivery of therapeutic agents compared to old nanocarriers like liposomes and conventional
delivery systems like creams and gels.
PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PEDAGOGICAL ASPECTS OF EDUCATION IN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY STUDENTS WITH ENGLISH LANGUAGE OF TEACHING
Authors: Yakubovska І. О. , Wanjura Ya. L. , Wanjura І. Yu. , Volynskyi D. А. , Churpiy І. К.
Published: April 2021

Резюме. Розглянуті результати власного дослідження.

Мета аналіз психологічних, методичних та якісних показників академічної освіти, визначення основних проблем у навчанні англомовних студентів.

Методи дослідження. Теоретичні: аналіз, синтез, узагальнення теоретичних напрацювань з досліджуваної проблеми; емпіричні: вибіркове скринінгове дослідження шляхом анонімного авторського анкетування. Вибірка емпіричного дослідження, яке проводилося у 2018−2019рр. склала  82 студенів 5-го та 6-го курсів. Аналізували мотиваційну, психологічну, морально-етичну, комунікаційну, навчально-методичну складову, рівень самоорганізації у навчанні, самооцінювання знань з  позиції студента.  Анкета складалася з 22 запитань, в тому числі 7 відкритих. Більшість англомовних студентів є мотивованими на навчання, знають свій потенціал, цілі і критично оцінюють досягнені результати. Ціннісним для них є практичне спрямування в опануванні медицини,  вони потребують додаткових роз’яснень, дискусії та відточування практичних навичок. Для  третини  першорядним є психологічний клімат на занятті, професіоналізм викладача і його дружнє вимогливе ставлення. Більше половини шкодують, що недостатньо володіють українською мовою, а це обмежує їх можливості до практичної роботи з пацієнтами. Опитані визнали, що 12% студентів 5-6 року навчання не  орієнтовані та не  мотивовані на освітній процес навчання у медичному ЗВО та  не володіють навиками відповідними навиками. Проте,  навіть при недостатньому рівні володінні англійською мовою, та при невисокому рівні базових знань, можна досягнути середнього і навіть високого рівня професійних знань. Визначальним є мотивація, наполегливість та активна взаємодія з тим, хто навчає. І навіть достатня базова підготовка та вхідні  високі компетентності в англомовному спілкуванні при низькій мотивації не принесуть успіху у навчанні.
PROGNOSTIC CRITERIA OF RECURRENCE AND FATAL OUTCOME OF PATIENTS WITH COLORECTAL CARCINOMA
Authors: Yakovtsova І. І. , Yakimenko А. S. , Protsenko О. S. , Ivakhno І. V.
Published: April 2021

Резюме. В структурі смертності від злоякісних новоутворень (ЗН) колоректальний рак (КРР) займає 2 місце після ЗН дихальної системи. Рецидивування КРР виникає в 30-40% та може характеризуватися швидкою генералізацією пухлинного процесу.

Мета дослідження: пошук прогностичних критеріїв рецидивування та летального наслідку КРР за даними морфологічного дослідження оперативно видаленого матеріалу та аутопсії.

Матеріали та методи. Були обрані випадки КРР ІІВ, ІІІВ стадії, Т3 за системою TNM. Сформовані групи дослідження: І – первинні КРР, що не рецидивували, ІІ – КРР з появою рецидиву впродовж 5 років та без летального наслідку (ІІА), з летальним наслідком (ІІВ).

Результати обстеження. Місцеве рецидивування було в 12,5% випадків, у 82,5% рецидиви були представлені метастазами у внутрішні органи, в 5% випадків рецидиви були одночасно місцевими та з метастазами у внутрішні органи. В 70,0% рецидиви були у перші 2 роки. Виявлена статистично значуща залежність (р<0,05) між приналежністю КРР до ІІ групи дослідження та наявністю наступних критеріїв: метастазів у реґіонарних лімфатичних вузлах, васкулярної інвазії, малої відстані від краю резекції, відсутності ад’ювантної хіміотерапії, що свідчить про прогностичне значення цих факторів щодо рецидивування КРР після видалення пухлини. При дослідженні ІІ групи рецидивуючих КРР летальний наслідок від прогресії пухлиного процесу асоціювався з местастазуванням у реґіонарні лімфатичні вузли (р<0,05), відсутністю ад’ювантної хіміотерапії (р<0,05), раннім терміном появи рецидиву (р<0,03).

Висновки: при дослідженні первинних КРР ІІВ, ІІІВ стадії та рівнем інвазії Т3 виявлені прогностичні критерії рецидивування та летального наслідку, що рекомендовано враховувати для індивідуалізованного підходу до лікування пацієнтів.