bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical approach to description of stressed state of syntactic foam microstructure
Authors:   Krylov State Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia, Dodonov P.А.
Published: May 2022

Object and purpose of research. The object of research is a composite material of the syntactic foam type (SF), which forms a heterogeneous medium consisting of a polymer matrix filled with spherical inclusions- micro spheres. The paper suggests that distribution of micro spheres in SF should be used as a qualitative measure for estimation procedures. Comparison of such distribution for various models can be used for explaining the SF efficiency estimations. Materials and methods. The initial data inputs for the study were the composition and structure of syntactic foam and characteristics of its components: polymer matrix and glass micro spheres. Numerical studies were carried out using the earlier developed structural model of SF deformation and damage. The structural model assesses the stressed-strained state of large micro sphere assemblies (models with a number of spheres about 105 are used in the study). Results obtained by the model let us use statistical methods of processing the stress raisers and identify patterns of distributions for predicting the SF strength. The results are verified by comparison with estimations by finite element models. Main results. The structural model of deformation and damage is highly effective in calculation of the stressed-strained state of micro structures with a number of micro spheres of about 105 and more. Conclusion. The structural model developed for SF makes it possible to accurately assess the stresses of its components under external hydrostatic pressure considering a large number of micro spheres. The results show excellent convergence of the stressed-strained state estimates with detailed estimations by FE models. With accurate data on the stressed-strained state of micro structure one can predict how the damage would develop and calculate the process to failure and full loss of buoyance.
LNG bunkering tankers in marine ports: validation of demand in numbers
Authors:   St. Petersburg State Marine Technical University, St. Petersburg, Russia, Vlasiev М.V. , Demeshko G.F. ,   St. Petersburg State Marine Technical University, St. Petersburg, Russia
Published: May 2022

Object and purpose of research. The paper considers specialist vessels for re-fueling gas-engined ships, so-called LNG bunkering tankers (LNG bunkering ship as per the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping). The purpose is to formulate recommendations regarding the bunkering tanker fleet configuration for a marine port taking into consideration their functioning model and projected demand for natural gas motor fuel. Materials and methods. Operational experience of the ship type under consideration as well as the performance factors have been generalized and analyzed. Statistics of bunkering companies operating on the St. Petersburg port market have been collected and systematized enabling us to give recommendations for the projected fuel demand. Main results. Operational characteristics of bunkering tankers in the port bunkering infrastructure have been generalized. An approach is suggested for justifying the required number of LNG re-fueling tankers based on the game theory. The main factors defining the volumes of LNG fuel required in port are highlighted. A case study is given for validation of the bunkering tanker demand in numbers for the port of St. Petersburg. Conclusion. Bunkering tankers are a key link in the bunkering infrastructure of any harbor. LNG tankers are growing in numbers every year, which is related to more stringent requirements for environment pollution and reduced discharges from vessels in operation. This study enables justification of bunkering tanker numbers early in the design of a port bunkering infrastructure.
Degradation mechanisms of zinc-air batteries used in hearing aid
Authors:   Department of Biomedical, Industrial and Human Factors Engineering, Wright State University, Dayton, OH 45435, USA, Hunt Kelly , Bates Mallory ,   Department of Biomedical, Industrial and Human Factors Engineering, Wright State University, Dayton, OH 45435, USA, Simon Gerald Klint ,   Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, OH 45433 USA, Goswami Tarun ,   Department of Biomedical, Industrial and Human Factors Engineering, Wright State University, Dayton, OH 45435, USA
Published: May 2022

Hearing aid devices are powered by the oxidation of oxygen and zinc that occurs within zinc-air batteries. Zinc-air batteries have an average discharge time of 7 days. Therefore, hearing-aid devices need frequent battery replacement. In this paper, degradation mechanisms of zinc-air batteries investigated where a competition mechanism between zinc passivation and dendritic formation dictates the battery life. This research included exposure time from none to 9 days and to document dendritic growth with time. Scanning electron microscope images were taken to quantify the damage growth as well energy dispersive X-ray tests were conducted to comment on the composition changes. The results confirmed an increase in oxygen in exposed batteries from unexposed. These results matched findings from past literature. Exposure time was investigated to optimize battery lifespan. In conclusion, life of zinc-air batteries depends on the competition mechanism of zinc passivation and dendritic formation caused by oxidation and our investigation shows that this occurs within the first 7 days.
The clinical value of IMA and SCUBE1 in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in children
Authors:   RECEP TAYYIP ERDOGAN UNIVERSITY, FACULTY OF MEDICINE, DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE, RIZE, TURKEY, Altuntaș Mehmet , Altuntaş Gürkan , Calapoğlu Ahmet Salih , Bedir Recep , Atak Mehtap
Published: May 2022

Objectives. This study aims to show the clinical value of ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) and Signal Peptide, Complementary C1r/C1s, Uegf and Bmp1–Epidermal Growth Factor Like Domain Containing 1 (SCUBE1) protein in pediatric appendicitis. Methods. Eighty-one pediatric patients hospitalized in the pediatric surgery ward with acute appendicitis and a control group of 62 pediatric patients with unspecific abdominal pain were included in this prospective case-control study. Thirty-nine patients whose pathology specimens confirmed acute appendicitis made up the final appendicitis group. Results. Patients with appendicitis had higher IMA (p<0.001) and SCUBE1 (p<0.001) levels than the control group. In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, areas under the curve (AUC) were 0.991 (sensitivity=97.4%, specifity=100%, positive likelihood ratio (+LR) infinity, negative likelihood ratio (-LR)=0.03, positive predictive values (+PV)=100%, negative predictive value (-PV)=98.3% for IMA and 0.803 (sensitivity = 89.7%, specificity =64.5%, +LR=2.53, -LR=0.16, +PV=61.4%, -PV=90.9%) for SCUBE1. Conclusions. The present study shows that IMA may be a reliable marker for a more accurate diagnosis of appendicitis. SCUBE1 can be used to exclude diagnosis if used in combination with other laboratory and clinical data.
Accuracy of C-reactive protein and leukocyte count in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis compared to histopathological examination
Authors:   DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SURGERY, PES INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES AND RESEARCH (PESIMSR), KUPPAM, ANDHRA PRADESH, INDIA, Rajashekar N. , Satish Ammapalem , Reddy Prashanth , Vidyadhar CY
Published: May 2022

Background. One of the most common causes of acute surgical abdomen is acute appendicitis. The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of C-reactive protein (CRP) and the total leukocyte count (TLC) with the postoperative histopathological examination in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Methods. It is a prospective observational study over a period of 18 months, on patients who underwent emergency appendectomy. Purposive sampling method and Chi square test were used for the study to find significant association between the variables. Results. The mean age of the participants was 24.06 ± 8.61 years (74.7% men and 25.3% women). All cases had abdominal pain, and 86.7% anorexia, 57.3% migraine, 49.3% vomiting, 38.7% fever. In the case of the normal appendix, TLC was positive in 31% of cases; in cases with inflamed appendix 65% of cases were positive for TLC, while in cases with gangrenous and/or perforated appendix all cases were positive for TLC. CRP had a sensitivity of 88.7%, 69.23% specificity, 93.22% PPV and 56.25% NPV for diagnosis. When both TLC and CRP were used, they have a high sensitivity (90.32%) compared to single use and reported to histopathological findings, and a high PPV value (93.33%). Conclusions. The combined sensitivity and specificity values of TLC and CRP were higher in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis, thus reducing the number of negative appendicectomies and the need for a CT scan, which is generally expensive and associated with the risk of radiation.
The diagnostic value of FNAC in cervical lymphadenopathy
Authors:   DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SURGERY, GOVT T D MEDICAL COLLEGE, ALAPPUZHA, KERALA, INDIA, Balaprasanth J. , Vinod P.B.
Published: May 2022

Background. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is the basic investigation that can be performed even in small centers, with low costs, without major complications and with good patient compliance. The broad spectrum of diseases can be classified into inflammatory conditions, malignancies or lymphoma, which allows the planning of the treatment strategy or further investigation that is necessary for diagnosis. Materials and Methods. A prospective study was performed on 100 individuals with enlarged cervical lymph nodes who underwent FNAC and surgery, from 2017 to 2019. The histopathological reports of the patients were correlated with the preoperative cytological reports. Results. Of the studied cases, reactive lymphadenopathy was the most common - 43%, followed by tuberculous lymphadenopathy - 21%, granulomatous lymphadenopathy - 16%, and malignancy - 16%. Among malignancy, the most common is the secondary from squamous cell carcinoma – 11 cases (68.75%) followed by metastasis from thyroid carcinoma – 4 cases (25%) and metastasis from adenocarcinoma – 1 case (6.25%). By the age of 40, the most common malignancy is metastasis from thyroid carcinoma, while over 40, the secondary tumor from squamous cell carcinoma is the most common. Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of FNAC are high in carcinomatous (93.75%, 100%, 99%), lymphomatous (75%, 98.96%, 98%) and tuberculous lymphadenopathy (95.24%, 96.20%, 96%). Conclusions. FNAC is a simple and safe test, with a good accuracy of diagnosis and low complications, being therefore an effective diagnostic tool.
A prospective study of union rates of midshaft clavicle fractures with plate osteosynthesis
Authors: Singh Sardar Jaideep , Sree Usha , Srinivas Shanmukha , Pasula Sujatha
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Internal fixation is the current treatment approach for displaced clavicle fractures, which ensures firm immobilization and pain relief, thus preventing complications such as non-union, shortening and deformity. Aims. The aim of the study is to investigate the union rates with plate osteosynthesis, in order to be able to compare the clinical results obtained by several treatment modalities, in terms of movements, pain relief, return to normal activities and work. Materials and Methods. This is a prospective study on 30 patients with middle third clavicle fractures treated with plate osteosynthesis between December 2018 and October 2020, at Santiram Medical College and General Hospital, Nandyal. The study included patients older than 18 years. Results. The road accident was the most common cause of this fracture in our study, 70% being males and 63% with a right-sided injury. All patients were operated on within one week of the injury. Robinson Type-2B1 was the most commonly observed in our study and was approximately 53%. Twenty patients (66%) were treated with a Recon plate, nine patients (30%) were treated with an anatomical locking compression plate, one patient (3%) was treated with 1/3 tubular plate. All patients were immobilized in an arm sling, allowing a passive range of movements for 2-3 weeks. The duration of hospitalization was six to seven days, while the duration of the union varied from 8-14 weeks. Evaluation of functional outcome was based on Constant-Murley score, showing excellent results in 20 patients. Conclusions. In displaced midshaft clavicle fractures, open reduction with internal fixation has led to good union rates with excellent functional outcomes.
Esophageal perforation due to acute esophageal necrosis: A case report and a comprehensive literature review
Authors:   GENERAL AND DIGESTIVE SURGERY DEPARTMENT. VALL D´HEBRON HOSPITAL UNIVERSITARI. UNIVERSITAT AUTONÒMA DE BARCELONA. BARCELONA, SPAIN, Chacón Carlos Petrola , Boix Sandra Castro , Conde Nivardo Rodríguez , Madina Amaia Gantxegi , Jofra Mariona , Sala Daniel Gil , Carrasco Manel Armengol
Published: May 2022

Background. Acute esophageal necrosis is a rare and potentially lethal entity. The pathogenesis is multifactorial, generally presenting with symptoms of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. We present a case that presents atypically with initial esophageal perforation. Case presentation. A 46-year-old man with a history of alcoholism and cocaine use, an active smoker, and a ruptured celiac trunk aneurysm treated by embolization, who, after acute chest and epigastric pain, is diagnosed with a Stanford B thoracoabdominal aortic dissection, being repaired endovascularly by placing an aortic endoprosthesis. Due to clinical suspicion of mesenteric ischemia complicated with esophageal/gastric perforation, a postoperative tomography was performed, revealing perforation of the esophagus distal to the left pleura and ischemic cholecystitis. Transhiatal esophagectomy, cervical esophagostomy, Witzel-type decompressive gastrostomy, Witzel-type feeding jejunostomy, classic cholecystectomy, and mediastinum drainage were performed. During the postoperative period, the patient remained in critical condition, dying as a result of hypoxic encephalopathy. The histopathological study reported acute transmural esophageal ischemia. Discussion. Tissue hypoperfusion plays a dominant role in the pathogenesis of acute esophageal necrosis. Esophageal perforation is a serious complication and can occur in the early stages, with esophagectomy and deferred digestive reconstruction being the appropriate treatment. Conclusion. Ischemia is a fundamental mechanism of acute esophageal necrosis; its diagnosis must always be established in the various complications that may occur in patients with hemodynamic compromise, in order to obtain a timely treatment.
An appendiceal diverticulitis patient presenting with acute appendicitis symptoms
Authors:   POURSINA MEDICAL AND EDUCATIONAL CENTER, GUILAN UNIVERSITY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES, DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SURGERY, GUILAN, IRAN, Torabi Hossein , Shirini Kasra , Ghaffari Rona , Ashoorian Yalda
Published: May 2022

Appendiceal diverticulitis is a very infrequent cause of pain in the right lower quadrant of the abdominal area. To have good management, it is essential to understand its clinical evolution, whether it is symptomatic or discovered incidentally during an appendectomy or barium enema. So far, few cases of appendiceal diverticulitis in different people have been reported. It is important in this case to avoid misdiagnosis in the form of another disease, especially acute appendicitis and/or possible complications. In this report we present the case of a 45-year-old man who came to the emergency room with symptoms of acute appendicitis. CT scan showed suspicious mass-like tissue in the appendiceal region, while pathological examination showed inflammation with no malignancy. An open appendicectomy was performed in this patient and appendicular diverticulitis was established as the final diagnosis.
Clinicopathological study of malignancy in solitary thyroid nodule
Authors:   DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SURGERY, GOVERNMENT MEDICAL COLLEGE, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, KERALA, INDIA, Samson Seuz C. , Kumar Santhosh
Published: May 2022

Objectives. To study proportion of malignancy in patients with solitary thyroid nodule who had underwent hemi/total thyroidectomy. Methodology. Study design: Cross sectional study. Study setting: Patients in the Out-patient and In-patient Department of General Surgery, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram. Sample size: 150 patients Study Procedure: Data was collected using a structured proforma. An informed consent written in the local language was read out to the study subjects and signature was obtained. All the questions in the proforma were read to the study subjects and responses recorded. Investigation reports and previous medical reports were used for filling relevant parts of the proforma. Analysis: Data collected was entered in excel sheets and analyzed using SPSS software. Results. 150 patients were operated for clinically detected STN. 16 (10.67%) were malignant. Papillary thyroid cancer was the most common type (93.75%). Mean age of patients with malignancy (n = 58) was 39.94 ± 14.83 years. Out of them 12 were females and 4 were male patients (F: M = 3: 1). 134 STNs were benign (23 males and 111 females). Malignant STN was reported in 14.81% males and 9.76% females. No significant correlation between tumour size and the risk of malignancy (P = 0.338). Altered thyroid function status is not a predictive factor for malignancy (P=0.801). FNAC (P=0.002) and USG (P=<0.001) were predictive of malignancy. Complications were more associated with total thyroidectomy (53.57%). Most frequent complication was transient hypocalcemia (15.4%). Hospital stay were more in patients who had underwent total thyroidectomy (P=<0.001). Conclusions. STN has high malignant potential compared to MNG. Preoperative evaluation with thorough history, physical examination, USG and FNAC could diagnose STN as benign or malignant. Strong predictors of malignancy include male gender, micro calcification and cervical lymphadenopathy. Complications are more associated with Total thyroidectomy. Hypocalcemia was the most common complication following thyroid surgery.
Diagnostic challenges in urethral calculi; an initial tertiary care study
Authors:   DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SURGERY, MAYO INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES, GADIA, BARABANKI, INDIA, Pandey Pooja , Gupta Ashutosh , Singh Sandesh B. , Maurya Arun Kumar
Published: May 2022

Background. Kidney stone disease possesses a significant health burden not only to the family but also to the society. Sometimes, urethral stones are not expressed by typical manifestations, which can mislead clinicians in making the diagnosis. Materials and Methods. The investigation covers a period of 1 year and 6 months (Oct. 2020-Jan. 2022), carried out after obtaining the written informed consent of 22 symptomatic patients. KUB and pelvis X-ray (with or without perineal ultrasound) were performed after ethical clearance in a single center tertiary care hospital. Results. This study reveals male preponderance with no female patients, mostly in the age groups of 35-50 years (all being symptomatic). 54.54% have retention of urine and 45.45% with features of voiding lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS); in 20% of cases, additional perineal ultrasound was performed to confirm the diagnosis. It is found that 63.63% of the stones were in the anterior part and 36.36% of the stones are in the posterior part of the urethra, 4.5% of the stones being radiolucent. Two patients were treated by meatotomy and 20 patients were treated by retrograde manipulation and fragmentation of stone by pneumatic lithoclast. Conclusions. In an extremely clinically suspicious case, an effective investigation, such as an X-ray of the pelvis and pelvis and/ or perineal ultrasound, can be used as the best diagnostic tools for urethral stones.
ROLE OF HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS GENOTYPE 16 IN PATHOLOGY OF CERVICAL CANCER
Authors:   Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, Grodno, Belarus, Jalil A. T. , Karevskiy A. E. ,   Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, Grodno, Belarus
Published: May 2022

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common malignant neoplasm in women worldwide and the third in Iraq. One of the reasons accounting for this is the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is found in 70% of Iraqis. The present study is aimed at finding the mechanism of pathogenesis which the HPV16 genotype possesses in this disease.
BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF CURCUMIN AND PERSPECTIVES FOR ITS PHARMACOLOGICAL USE
Authors:   Belarusian State University, Minsk, Belarus, Kostyuk V. A.
Published: May 2022

Curcumin, a polyphenolic pigment from Curcuma longa rhizome, possesses antioxidant properties and effectively acts on various intracellular signaling pathways, providing anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-cancer, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective and antiviral effects. Its efficacy and safety in cancer patients, alone or in combination with other anti-cancer drugs, has been proven in several clinical studies in humans. However, the therapeutic use of curcumin and its analogs is limited by chemical instability and low oral bioavailability, which makes relevant the use of nanotechnology for the production of new dosage forms of curcumin.
DIAGNOSTIC ISSUES OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY FORMS OF MEMBRANOUS NEPHROPATHY
Authors:   Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus, Dmitrieva M. V. , Komissarov K. S. ,   Minsk Scientific and Practical Center of Surgery, Transplantology and Hematology, Minsk, Belarus, Savosh V. V. ,   Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus, Bragina Z. N. ,   Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus, Tikhonovetskaya E. Yu. ,   Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus, Letkovskaya T. A. ,   Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus
Published: May 2022

Background. Diagnosis of primary and secondary forms of membranous nephropathy (MN) is based on identifying the clinical features of the course of the disease and morphological changes in the kidney tissue. Objective: to give a comparative description of the main manifestations in primary and secondary forms of MN. Material and methods. Clinical data and results of kidney biopsy of 45 cases of MN were studied, a case from clinical practice was demonstrated. Results. Patients with secondary forms were older (U=91.5; p=0.001), leukocytes in the capillary loops of the glomeruli were more often observed in the kidney tissue (F=0.06; p=0.035), the percentage of global glomerulosclerosis (U=149.0; p=0.037) and interstitial fibrosis (U=144.0; p=0.047) was higher. Conclusion. Diagnosis of primary and secondary forms of MN is important to optimize patient care.
CORRELATION BETWEEN HYPERURICEMIA AND STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL CARDIAC PARAMETERS IN PATIENTS WITH HYPERTENSION AND ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Barysenka T. L. , Snezhitskiy V. A. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Kurbat M. N. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Madekina G. A. ,   Grodno Regional Clinical Cardiology Center, Grodno, Belarus, Chernaja E. N. ,   Grodno Regional Clinical Cardiology Center, Grodno, Belarus, Epifanova Zh. G. ,   Grodno Regional Clinical Cardiology Center, Grodno, Belarus
Published: May 2022

Background. Cardiovascular diseases predominate in overall morbidity, disability and mortality of the population both in Belarus and in many other countries. The study of additional risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases including hyperuricemia is of undoubted interest. A rise in serum uric acid level is increasingly associated not only with the possible risk of such a classic disease as gout, but also with such pathological processes as hypertension and atrial fibrillation. The aim of the study is to study purine metabolism and the frequency of hyperuricemia in patients with hypertension and atrial fibrillation. Material and methods. The study results of products of purine metabolism in 104 patients with hypertension and/or atrial fibrillation under the age of 65 are presented. The serum uric acid level was determined by an enzymatic colorimetric method. The activity of the xanthine oxidase enzyme was measured via solid phase “sandwich” method using ELISA Kit Cat. for enzyme immunoassay. Xanthine, hypoxanthine, adenosine, inosine was measured by a highperformance liquid chromatography. Results. High serum uric acid level was revealed in 22.1% of 154 patients in the study. The patients with persistent and permanent atrial fibrillation had higher uricemia than the ones with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The patients with hyperuricemia were more likely to have permanent (33.3%) and persistent (39.4%) atrial fibrillation. Xanthine oxidase activity in 54% of subjects with hypertension and atrial fibrillation exceeded normal values. A significant correlation was found between elevated uric acid levels and left atrial dilatation (U=1616.0, p=0.002, rrb=-0.379). Hyperuricemia may be associated with the value of the left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with hypertension and atrial fibrillation (U=831.0, p=0.017, rrb=0.291). Conclusion: Hyperuricemia occurs in 22.1% of patients with hypertension and atrial fibrillation and is associated with cardiac remodeling.
MEMBRANE-ASSOCIATED THIAMINE KINASE FROM PIG'S BRAIN: DISTRIBUTION IN SUBCELLULAR FRACTIONS AND BRAINS, AMINO ACID COMPOSITION
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Chernikevich I. P. , Kostenevich N. N. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Ivanova A. D. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus
Published: May 2022

Background. Thiamine kinase is a medical enzyme, genetically determined "breakdowns" during the synthesis of which lead to a number of neurodegenerative diseases. Knowledge of the distribution of the enzyme in the compartments of the brain, the regulatory capabilities of the globule in the formation of the coenzyme form of vitamin B1 – thiamine diphosphate, will enable to perform targeted correction of pathological conditions. Purpose of the study. To determine the localization of the enzyme in the pig's brain, the role of hydrophobic and hydrophilic interactions in association on membranes, the nature of amino acid residues that determine the structure of the protein. Material and methods. To obtain membranes, fresh brain, cleaned from membranes and vessels, filled with 4 volumes of chilled Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM, pH 7.4) with 0.2 mM EDTA and homogenized (2000 rpm–1) for 5 cycles. The homogenate was centrifuged for (60 min at 30,000 g), the supernatant was discarded into the membranes remaining in the pellet and subjected to solubilization with the initial buffer containing 0.05-1 % of detergents. The enzyme activity was assessed by the rate of thiamine diphosphate formation. Protein hydrolysis was carried out in evacuated ampoules with 6 M HCl at 110 °C for 18, 22, 48, and 72 h. The isoelectric point (pI) was calculated from the amino acid composition and using the isoelectric focusing method. The isoionic point, was determined by dialysis of thiamine kinase, followed by measuring the pH in the dialysate. Results. It was found that hydrophobic detergents have a more pronounced solubilizing effect compared to hydrophilic ones. At high values of the critical concentration of micelle formation (1 %), both of them change the conformational state of the macromolecule, affecting its affinity for substrates and effectors. Thiamine kinase is fairly evenly dispersed in all parts of the brain. However, the subcellular localization is different. Low enzymatic activity is observed in the mitochondrial fractions. The enzyme is characterized by an increased concentration of amino acids, contributing to the α-helicalization of the protein globule, while at the same time a low content of residues that bind polypeptide chains and high - carry out its sharp rotation by 130 °, incompatible with the course of the α-helix. Conclusions. Brain thiamine kinase is a membrane-associated protein. Hydrophobic forces are mainly involved in the interaction with the lipid bilayer of membranes. Depending on the concentration of the detergent, the solubilization process is accompanied by a change in the conformation of the globule. The main amount of thiamine kinase is concentrated in mitochondrial membranes.
NERVE AND HUMORAL PATHWAYS OF INTESTINAL ENDOTOXINS INFLUENCE ON INTEROCEPTIVE REFLEX REACTIONS
Authors:   Institute of Physiology of the NAS of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus, Soltanov V. V. , Komarovskaya L. M. ,   Institute of Physiology of the NAS of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus
Published: May 2022

In acute experiments on rats, an increase and decrease in afferent activity in the mesenteric nerves of the intestine as well as vagus under the diaphragm, depending on the site of lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 10 μg) injection into the intestinal lumen, has been established. In addition, the effect of endotoxin on the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is manifested in a reflex change in the efferent nerve impulses. The reactions of the cervical sympathetic, splenic, cranial and caudal mesenteric nerves as well as vagus under the diaphragm are represented by an increase or decrease in the spontaneous activity of efferent fibers and depend on the zone of LPS infusion in the GIT. In general, inhibitory responses to endotoxin predominate, especially in the mesenteric nerves. According to experiments, the reflex responses of sympathetic efferent fibers caused by balloon distension of the colon are regularly weakened or completely suppressed after the infusion of LPS into the lumen of this organ. Under conditions of complete external decentralization of the GIT by transection of the vagus, all mesenteric nerves and the colon at the border with the rectum, the effects of modulation of the activity of both peripheral and central nervous structures under the influence of LPS are preserved due to the humoral pathway included in the complex neurotransmitter mechanism for controlling autonomic functions.
ON THE HISTORY OF THE GRODNO COMMUNITY OF SISTERS OF MERCY OF THE RUSSIAN RED CROSS SOCIETY IN THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Sitkevich S. A. , Cherepitsa V. N. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus
Published: May 2022

Last year the Belarusian Red Cross Society originated from the Russian Red Cross Society which at the beginning of the 20th century united numerous communities of sisters of mercy from all the provinces of the country celebrated its 100th anniversary. During the years of the Russo-Japanese War and World War I, they provided significant medical assistance to a huge number of sick and wounded soldiers. However, their noble activities for a number of reasons have up to now not been studied well. This article is the first attempt in Belarusian historiography to collect and comprehend all the materials currently available to the authors related to the history of the Grodno community of sisters of mercy of “the Russian Red Cross Society” during the hostilities of 1904-1915. When writing the article, in addition to the general scientific principles of scientific knowledge, historical-genetic, historical-comparative methods, as well as a value-based approach, were used. On the basis of the given sources and modern research methods the key milestones of the Grodno community of sisters of mercy, the number of its members, the list of their names and the level of their professional training were identified; some aspects of the community's activities at the beginning of the 20th century were considered.
The Effect of Static Stretching Exercises at Different Times on Heart Rate Variability Before Anaerobic Capacity Test
Authors: ALPARSLAN Tuncay , ARABACI Ramiz , GÜNGÖR Ali Kamil , ŞENOL Levent , KÜÇÜK Nuran
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to examine the acute effect of different durations of static stretching on heart rate variability (HRV) and, the anaerobic capacity of moderately physically active men during the Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT) at two different pre-exercise periods. Sixty-five healthy young male volunteers performed 10 s static stretching (STS) and 30 s static stretching (LTS) consisting of five static stretching exercises before WAnT on two non-consecutive days. HRV was measured pre (60 s), during (30 s) and post (60 s) WAnT after two different periods of static stretching. Anaerobic capacity variables were also measured during WAnT. STS and LTS had similar effects on other HRV parameters except for Mean-RR during the WAnT. There was no significant difference between the protocols applied in any of the anaerobic capacity test values. But there was a negatively significant relationship between the average power output of 30 s static stretching and pNN50. This result has shown that STS and LTS exercises have a similar effect during maximal exercise, so if the practitioners carry out static stretching exercises before maximal or high-intensity exercise, it is recommended to perform the STS exercise in terms of the economy of the exercise.
The Bitter Taste Receptor TAS2R14 as a Drug Target
Authors: Waterloo Lukas A. W. , Löber Stefan , Gmeiner Peter
Published: May 2022

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) mediate most of our physiological responses to hormones, neurotransmitters and environmental stimulants. Besides human senses like vision and olfaction, taste perception is mostly mediated by GPCRs. Hence, the bitter taste receptor family TAS2R comprises 25 distinct receptors and plays a key role in food acceptance and drug compliance. The TAS2R14 subtype is the most broadly tuned bitter taste receptor, recognizing a range of chemically highly diverse agonists. Besides other tissues, it is expressed in human airway smooth muscle and may represent a novel drug target for airway diseases. Several natural products as well as marketed drugs including flufenamic acid have been identified to activate TAS2R14, but higher potency ligands are needed to investigate the ligand-controlled physiological function and to facilitate the targeted modulate for potential future clinical applications. A combination of structure-based molecular modeling with chemical synthesis and in vitro profiling recently resulted in new flufenamic acid agonists with improved TAS2R14 potency and provided a validated and refined structural model of ligand–TAS2R14 interactions, which can be applied for future drug design projects.
Reverse-Design toward Optimized Labeled Chemical Probes – Examples from the Endocannabinoid System
Authors: Guberman Mónica , Kosar Miroslav , Omran Anahid , Carreira Erick M. , Nazaré Marc , Grether Uwe
Published: May 2022

Labeled chemical probes are of utmost importance to bring drugs from the laboratory through the clinic and ultimately to market. They support and impact all research and discovery phases: target verification and validation; assay development; lead optimization; and biomarker engagement in the context of preclinical studies and human trials. Probes should display high potency and selectivity as well as fulfill specific criteria in connection with absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicology (ADMET) profile. Progress in fields such as imaging and proteomics increased the need for specialized probes to support drug discovery. Labeled probes carrying an additional reporter group are valuable tools to meet specific application requirements, but pose significant challenges in design and construction. In the reverse-design approach, small molecules previously optimized in medicinal chemistry programs form the basis for the generation of such high-quality probes. We discuss the reverse design concept for the generation of labeled probes targeting the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex lipid signaling network that plays a key role in many human health and disease conditions. The examples highlighted include diverse reporter units for a range of applications. In several cases the reported probes were the product of mutually rewarding and highly cross-fertilizing collaborations among academic and industry research programs, a strategy that can serve as a blueprint for future probe generation efforts.
Never Gonna Give You Up – Current Developments in Covalent Protein Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Hillebrand Laura , Gehringer Matthias
Published: May 2022

Covalent inhibitors have recently seen a revival in medicinal chemistry. Inhibitors addressing non-catalytic cysteine residues with weakly reactive electrophiles have been very successfully employed to target protein kinases, one of the major druggable protein families. Here we provide an overview of irreversible and reversible covalent protein kinase inhibitors in clinical development and beyond. We further spotlight recent advances in targeting amino acids other than cysteine and the reactive groups utilized in covalent protein kinase inhibitors.
Protein Phosphatases: A Neglected Target Family for Drug Discovery
Authors: Lewis Joe , Müller Gerhard
Published: May 2022

The gene family of protein phosphatases is a rich but under-exploited source of therapeutically validated drug targets modulating signal transduction pathways. Unlike the kinase family, research and development activities have not yet yielded any approved small-molecule drugs against a phosphatase. Approximately 20 years ago, the phosphatase family was classified as undruggable and intractable. This was primarily due to the spectacular failure of the cumulated industry-wide drug discovery efforts to develop PTP1B inhibitors. Recently, allosteric inhibitors against SHP2, a member of the phosphatase family, have entered clinical trails, which has reawakened industry’s interest towards this neglected enzyme family. This contribution reviews the recent R&D trends around small-molecule efforts towards phosphatase modulators over the last years, rather than providing an exhaustive review of the field of allosteric phosphatase inhibitors.
Analisis peran wanita dalam aktivitas fisik gerakan masyarakat hidup sehat (GERMAS)
Authors: Atiya Ummi , Anam Khoiril
Published: May 2022

Gerakan Masyarakat Hidup Sehat (Germas)  merupakan Instruksi Presiden Nomor 1 Tahun 2017 dikeluarkan melalui Kementerian Kesehatan RI untuk mengurangi Penyakit Tidak Menular di Indonesia. Salah satu fokus kegiatan Germas yaitu aktivitas fisik yang dicanangkan di seluruh Indonesia termasuk di Desa Kendaldoyong. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui peran wanita dan  hambatannya dalam aktivitas fisik Germas. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode deskriptif kuantitatif, pengambilan data menggunakan angket tertutup. Populasi penelitian ini adalah seluruh masyarakat Desa Kendaldoyong, dengan teknik purposive sampling, jumlah sampel 40 orang wanita. Hasil Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa peran wanita dalam aktivitas fisik Germas di Desa Kendaldoyong termasuk dalam kategori “sedang” dengan persentase 70%. Minat olahraga rehabilitasi/kesehatan yaitu olahraga senam setiap akhir pekan (Sabtu-Minggu) dengan mengajak anak serta temannya, sedangkan untuk melakukan aktivitas kegiatan sehari-hari responden melakukan kegiatan menyetrika. Meskipun hambatan termasuk dalam kategori “sedang” seperti memiliki kegiatan lain atau kegiatan sedang padat. Simpulan dalam penelitian ini yaitu peran wanita dalam aktivitas fisik Germas di Desa Kendaldoyong berkategori “sedang” meskipun terdapat beberapa hambatan. Saran untuk masyarakat harus terus meningkatkan kesadaran untuk melakukan Germas aktivitas fisik dan membuat jadwal kegiatan supaya mempermudah untuk melakukan aktivitas fisik secara rutin.
Efektifitas terapi musik terhadap tingkat kecemasan atlet petanque sebelum bertanding
Authors: Susanto Nugroho , Syafrianto Donald , Alimuddin Alimuddin , Pranoto Nuridin Widya , Ikhsan Nurul , Anam Khoiril , Prasetiyo Rahayu
Published: May 2022

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk melihat bagaimana terapi musik mempengaruhi tingkat kecemasan atlet sebelum turnamen pada atlet Petanque FIK UNP. Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi oleh efektivitas terapi musik terhadap tingkat kecemasan atlet sebelum bertanding belum dapat ditentukan pada atlet petanque FIK UNP. Penelitian ini menggunakan model desain eksperimen semu dengan kelompok kontrol yang tidak setara. Teknik pengambilan sampel systematic sampling dengan jumlah sampel 20 atlet (10 atlet kelompok perlakuan dan 10 atlet kelompok kontrol). Skala kecemasan olahraga mengukur kecemasan. Untuk menilai perbedaan antara terapi musik pada kelompok perlakuan dan kelompok kontrol pada kecemasan, peneliti menggunakan analisis deskriptif, uji normalitas dengan uji Kolmogrov-Smirnov, analisis homogenitas dengan uji Levene, dan uji t. Rata-rata skor kelompok perlakuan 52,15 dalam kategori kecemasan rendah, sedangkan skor rata-rata kelompok kontrol 56,72 dalam kategori kecemasan sedang. Nilai p untuk analisis t-test adalah 0,035 < 0,05 , menunjukkan bahwa ada perbedaan yang signifikan antara terapi musik dan kelompok kontrol pada kecemasan sebelum bertanding. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa terapi musik dapat mengurangi stres sebelum bertanding pada pemain petanque.
Cyclometalated Iridium-Coumarin Ratiometric Oxygen Sensors: Improved Signal Resolution and Tunable Dynamic Ranges
Authors: Wu Yanyu , Sutton Gregory D. , Halamicek Michael D. S. , Xing Xinxin , Bao Jiming , Teets Thomas S.
Published: May 2022

In this work we introduce a new series of ratiometric oxygen sensors for hypoxic environments based on phosphorescent cyclometalated iridium centers partnered with organic coumarin fluorophores. Three different cyclometalating ligands and two different pyridyl-containing coumarin types were used to prepare six target complexes with tunable excited-state energies. Three of the complexes display dual emission, with fluorescence arising from the coumarin ligand, and phosphorescence from either the cyclometalated iridium center or the coumarin. These dual-emitting complexes function as ratiometric oxygen sensors, with the phosphorescence is quenched under O₂ while fluorescence is unaffected. The use of blue-fluorescent coumarins results in good signal resolution between fluorescence and phosphorescenc. Moreover, the sensitivity and dynamic range, measured with Stern-Volmer analysis, can be tuned two orders of magnitude by virtue of our ability to synthetically control the triplet excited-state ordering. The complex with cyclometalated irdium 3MLCT phosphorescence operates under hyperoxic conditions, whereas the two complexes with coumarin-centered phosphorescence are sensitive to very low levels of O¬2 and function as hypoxic sensors.
Enhancing Photovoltage of Silicon Photoanodes by a High Work-function Coordination Polymer
Authors: Aroonratsameruang Ponart , Klahan Kanokwan , Loget Gabriel , Pattanasattayavong Pichaya
Published: May 2022

A metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) structure based on an inhomogeneous junction has been recently proven to be highly efficient at photoelectrochemical (PEC) water oxidation. Engineering the surrounding layer of the MIS nanojunction is crucial to maximize the photovoltage. Specifically, for an n-type photoanode, a high work-function material is desired to create a large Schottky barrier that assists the hole transfer to oxidize water while blocking the electron transfer. We demonstrate the use of copper(I) thiocyanate (CuSCN), a transparent p-type coordination polymer semiconductor with a high work function, to surround the n-Si/SiOx/Cu nanojunctions, resulting in an increased effective barrier height from 0.71 to 1.03 eV. This phenomenon, known as the pinch-off effect, is also applied to improve the performance of the planar n-Si/SiOx/Cu electrode via a PEC dissolution method that creates an inhomogeneous surface covered with CuOx. The Cu/CuSCN nanojunction still shows superior performance due to the favorable energetics of CuSCN.
Ultra-high-rate CO2 reduction reactions to multicarbon products with a current density of 1.7 A/cm2 in neutral electrolytes
Authors: Inoue Asato , Harada Takashi , Nakanishi Shuji , Kamiya Kazuhide
Published: May 2022

CO2 electrolysis to value-added products is a promising technology to close the carbon cycle and sequester anthropogenic CO2 into chemical feedstocks; an increase of the current density for multicarbon products is one of the requirements for practical implementation. We have successfully increased the partial current density for gaseous CO2 reduction reactions to multicarbon products (C2+) over Cu nanoparticles on gas diffusion electrodes in neutral electrolytes to a record value of 1.7 A/cm2. The faradaic efficiency for multicarbon products increased with the current density and reached 76% at a total current density of 1.6 A/cm2. The turnover frequency for the production of C2+ per Cu atoms exceeded 2.8 s-1. The optimal porosity and thickness of the catalyst layer are confirmed as factors that elicit the high-turnover frequency of Cu atoms, resulting in the record partial current density for C2+.
Neuroprotective Effects of σ2R/TMEM97 Receptor Modulators in Neuronal Model of Huntington's Disease
Authors: Jin Jing , Arbez Nicolas , Sahn James , Lu Yan , Linkens Kathryn , Hodges Timothy , Tang Anthony , Wiseman Robyn , Martin Stephen , Ross Christopher
Published: May 2022

Huntington's disease (HD) is a genetic neurodegenerative disease caused by an expanded CAG repeat in the human Huntingtin gene (HTT) that yields an expanded polyglutamine (polyQ) repeat in exon-1 of the human mutant huntingtin (mHTT) protein. The presence of this polyQ repeat results in neuronal degeneration, and there is no cure nor treatment that modifies disease progression. Small molecules that bind selectively to the recently-cloned sigma 2 receptor (2R), which is identical to TMEM97, have been shown to have neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer's disease, traumatic brain injury and several other neurological disorders. To assess whether modulating pathways involving 2R/TMEM97 can provide protection in HD, we used an HD cell model to evaluate the effects of 2R/TMEM97 ligands on mHTT induced neuronal toxicity. We first synthesized a set of compounds designed to bind to 2R/TMEM97, and binding profiles (Ki) of these ligands were determined. Modulators with high selectivity for 2R/TMEM97 relative to 1Rwere then tested in our HD cell model. Primary cortical neurons were cultured in vitro for seven days and then co-transfected with either normal HTT construct (Htt N-586-22Q/GFP) or mHTT construct (Htt-N586-82Q/GFP). Transfected neurons were treated with 2R/TMEM97 or 1R modulators for 48 h. After treatment, neurons were fixed and stained with Hoechst, and condensed nuclei were quantified to assess cell death in transfected neurons. Significantly, 2R/TMEM97 modulators reduce the neuronal toxicity induced by mHTT, and their neuroprotective effects are not blocked by NE-100, a selective 1R antagonist. These results indicate for the first time that 2R/TMEM97 modulators can protect neurons from mHTT induced neuronal toxicity, suggesting that targeting 2R/TMEM97 may provide a novel therapeutic approach to treat HD patients.