bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical treatment of paralytic instability and paralytic deformities of the knee joint
Authors: Chernov A. P.
Published: February 2022

There were 2675 patients with the consequences of poliomyelitis, of which 773 (28.9%) had paralytic instability with deformity of the knee joint. Arthrodesis of the knee joint was performed in 316 patients, transplantation of the tibial flexors to the patella in 235 patients. For the treatment of paralytic deformities of the knee joint, operations should be used to restore the axis of the limb and aimed at preventing gonarthrosis. New ways of treating deformities developed by the author are described.
The role of the autonomic nervous system in the regulation of nonspecific immune responses of the body
Authors: Ismagilov M. F. , Korshun Yu. V.
Published: February 2022

Recently, interest has increased in studying the role of the nervous system in the regulation of immunological and nonspecific mechanisms. Nonspecific resistance factors and specific immune responses of the body to antigen administration are closely related. Lymphocytes and macrophages take part not only in immunogenesis, but also are regulators of morphogenesis, biochemical and physiological reactions. Insufficiency of complement synthesis is accompanied by immunodeficiency. Removal of the thymus reduces the activity of cellular (phagocytosis) and humoral (complement, lysozyme, -lysines) factors of nonspecific resistance of the organism. The functioning of nonspecific resistance mechanisms is of great importance in the formation of an immune response both at the beginning of a specific process, its development, and in the effector phase and the outcome of the immune process. Therefore, changes in nonspecific resistance factors are regarded both as an indicator of the severity of the immune process, and as an indicator of the activity of the body's protective and adaptive reactions during antigenic irritation.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of surgical methods for the treatment of uncomplicated compression fractures of the spine
Authors: Karpov S. P. , Lastukhin I. V.
Published: February 2022

In the clinic of traumatology and pediatric surgery of the Chuvash University named after I. N. Ulyanov, from 1973 to the present, 704 patients with uncomplicated compression fractures of the spine (NCF) in the lower thoracic and lumbar regions have been treated. Of these, 126 (18%) patients underwent surgical fixation of the posterior section of the damaged area of the spine. The patients were aged 16 to 60 years.
Hemisplenectomy for ruptured splenic cyst
Authors: Sotnichenko B. A. , Makarov V. I.
Published: February 2022

The threat of developing immunodeficiency and various purulent-septic complications after splenectomy encourage surgeons to perform organ-preserving operations on this organ. In the clinic, 3 patients were operated on for spleen cysts. The correct diagnosis before surgery for ruptured cysts can only be established using laparoscopy (performed in 2 patients) and angiography. The operation of choice for this pathology is splenectomy. We give a description of the organ-preserving operation for ruptured spleen cysts.
The state of the blood coagulation system in patients with thyrotoxicosis
Authors: Kabanov N. Ya. , Kharitonov B. S.
Published: February 2022

The state of the blood coagulation system in thyrotoxicosis has been studied for a long time, but there is still no unambiguous opinion on this issue: both hypocoagulable and hypercoagulable changes in hemostasis have been stated. There is an opinion that blood clotting in this disease does not change at all.
Working conditions in the production of isoprene rubber from isobutylene and formaldehyde
Authors: Pigalev S. A.
Published: February 2022

The production of synthetic isoprene rubber (SKI-3) is one of the main branches of the new chemistry. In the literature there is some information about the toxic properties of isoprene, which is the main occupational hazard of this production [1, 2, 3, 4], and there is no data on the hygienic characteristics of working conditions and the state of health of workers in this production [5].
Working conditions and health status of workers in the production of liquid thiocol
Authors: Kamchatnov V. P. , Golubovsky I. E. , Titova N. I. , Kovyazin V. G. , Shakurov R. Sh. , Fateeva N. I. , Vaganova Z. I.
Published: February 2022

In the production of liquid thiocol, two stages are distinguished: the synthesis of di--chloroethyl formaland the production of the final product based on it. In the course of the technological process, the air environment of the working premises is polluted with harmful chemicals.
Development Without Displacement and Equitable Development
Authors:   , Pinsky Clara V. , Zitcer Andrew
Published: February 2022

In many large U.S. cities, the displacement of long-time low-income and minority communities is an increasing concern for the communities themselves, local activists, nonprofits serving those communities, and city officials. In the last decade, this wide range of stakeholders have all used the terms "development without displacement" and "equitable development" to describe a diverse set of strategies aimed at stemming displacement and mitigating the harm of gentrification, but there has been little comparative analysis to date. In the pursuit of equity and justice, it is dangerous to assume various actors mean the same thing when they use these two terms. This thesis examines different conceptions of development without displacement and equitable development, comparing perspectives from the grassroots level with those of private and public sector actors. Following case studies of development without displacement and equitable development initiatives in San Francisco and Philadelphia, I present a comparative analysis of key themes that emerged from qualitative interviews, focusing on definitions, outcomes, accountability, and representation. I then offer four recommendations for stakeholders looking to shape neighborhood change in their community or city. These recommendations include: prioritizing specificity around language, defining success, identifying metrics, and funding implementation as well as planning efforts.
Conceptual Structure of Emotions
Authors:   , Kelly Alexandra E. , Chrysikou Evangelia
Published: February 2022

We rely on emotion concepts, an important subset of our conceptual space, to distinguish between a wide array of internal states. A sizable body of work debating the manner in which this space is divided-as well as an array of studies reporting the influence of emotions on attention, decision making, language comprehension, and other cognitive processes- demonstrate that interest in this area is active. However, the underlying structure of emotion concepts has received considerably less attention. Theories of conceptual knowledge have traditionally prioritized the examination of concrete concepts pertaining to inanimate objects and natural kinds (e.g., plants, birds, vehicles). As a result, accounts of the conceptual representation of emotions have almost exclusively focused on their abstract nature. In contrast, in the present study we hypothesized that differences between the experience of emotions and the experience of other abstract concepts (e.g. equality, tyranny), specifically regarding the relative importance of interoceptive states, might drive distinctions in the dimensions along which emotion concepts are represented. Participants performed a property generation task in which they listed features of emotion concepts and a matching number of concrete and abstract, non-emotion concepts. Features were coded into categories derived from the literature. Analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in the distribution of features among the category types by condition (i.e., emotion, abstract, and concrete). Our results reflect subtle differences between the structure of emotion concepts and the structure of, not only concrete concepts, but also other abstract concepts. These findings contribute to our understanding of emotional conceptual representations and their role in cognition and memory.
Volumetric Video
Authors:   , Horwath Stephen , Mathe Nathalie
Published: February 2022

Volumetric video, a new performance capture technology, is enabling independent filmmakers and virtual reality developers to tell stories and create emotions for both films and virtual reality experiences. However, the artistic vocabulary and instructional pipeline information remains uncodified, making it difficult to explore this new medium. In this thesis, a knowledge acquisition framework was constructed to bridge this gap. The results reveal new themes and ideas professionals are currently exploring and pipeline practices they are using. Furthermore, we present a map of possible workflows creators can navigate the medium with and a short volumetric VR experience to validate the data.
Clinical and diagnostic significance of sialic acids determination in biological material
Authors: Volkhina I.V. , Butolin E.G.
Published: February 2022

Sialic acids (SA) are derivatives of neuraminic acid; they are located at the terminal position in the chains of monosaccharide residues of various glycoconjugates. SA play a dual role, they either mask recognition sites, or, on the contrary, represent biological targets that can be recognized by receptor proteins and serve as ligands. The desialylation/sialylation processes can be viewed as a dynamic modification regulated by sialyltransferases and sialidases in response to external or internal stimuli. This review describes the structural and functional diversity and the potential use of SA fractions as biomarkers for various pathological conditions. Almost any extreme effects on the body and inflammatory processes lead to an increase in the level of both total and free SA in the blood and tissues. Possible reasons for the increase of sialoglycoconjugate metabolism indicators in biological material include activation of the hepatocyte synthesis and secretion of various acute-phase proteins, many of which are sialoglycoproteins, violation of the membrane integrity and destruction of body cells, and also high activity of sialidases (neurominidases) and sialyltransferases. Most acute and chronic liver diseases are characterized by the decrease in the total level of SA in the blood serum (because many plasma proteins are synthesized and glycosylated in hepatocytes). Aberrant sialylation results in changes of sialoglycoconjugate structure, its ability to perform biological functions and half-life. Glycosylation is the most common post-translational modification of proteins in the virus, which not only promotes the formation of specific conformation of viral proteins, but also modulates their interaction with receptors and affects host cell recognition, viral replication and infectivity. Serum total SA concentration increases in some benign and inflammatory conditions, which indicates a lack of specificity and limits their use for early detection and screening of neoplastic diseases. Nevertheless, determining blood SA level and measuring concentration of existing biomarkers can be used to improve diagnostic indicators, to stage and monitor therapeutic response in some types of cancer, when the need for specificity is less than for diagnosis. Clinical and diagnostic value of determining the sialoglycoconjugate metabolic indicators, including changes in the content of both SA fractions and specific proteins in various biological fluids and tissues, lies in establishing the causes and mechanisms of biochemical changes in the body in certain diseases.
Efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy of pancreatic stone in chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Khan A. Q. , Shah Shanu B. , Kumar Sanjeev K.
Published: February 2022

Background: To study overall outcome of ESWL therapy in large pancreatic duct stone as first line therapy in chronic pancreatitis.Methods: A prospective, observational study which took place in MGM medical college and the patient were admitted in general surgery department. Patients were selected based on the inclusion criteria composed of upper abdominal pain, weight loss, oily stools and presence of pancreatic stones or ductal irregularity/ parenchymal atrophy determined by various radiological investigations.Results: In this study 11 patients with pancreatic stones were recruited in duration of 2 years. Among 11 patients included in this study 63.33% were males and 36.375% were females. The mean age of males and females were 35.57 and 40.50 years respectively. It was observed that all study subjects had abdominal pain and history of pancreatitis. 36% patient had single calculi and 64% patient had multiple calculi. 18% calculi were present in the body of pancreas and 46% calculi in head of pancreas. All these patient had undergone ESWL procedures with minimum number of 400 shocks and maximum number of 4600. Among the patients it was noted that 73% had successful complete clearance of calculi, 18% had partial clearance and 9% had no clearanceConclusions: ESWL is efficient tool for the treatment of pancreatic calculi but can be used alone it is adjunct tool to ERCP. Endoscopy, etc.
A comparative study between Mannheims peritonitis index and Boeys score in predicting the morbidity and mortality in perforated pertic ulcer patients in a tertiary health care center in Bangalore
Authors: H. R. Harindranath , V. P. Mamatha
Published: February 2022

Background: Peptic ulceration is one of the major health problem encountered all around the world. Peptic ulcers are associated with complications like bleeding, perforation and obstruction with perforation being the most frequent complication. Objectives of current study were to compare the efficacy of MPI and Boey score in predicting the morbidity and mortality of patients with perforated peptic ulcer in a tertiary health care center in Bangalore which helps in stratification of the patients into different categories based on the likelihood of morbidity and mortality for more appropriate intensive care and management.Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in a span of 9 months in the department of general surgery in Bangalore medical college and research institute. All the patients over 18 years with perforated peptic ulcer peritonitis who underwent laparotomy were included in the study. Data was appropriately tabulated; MPI and Boey score calculated and statistically analysed to predict morbidity and mortality of the patients.Results: Total number of subjects in this study was 75. Mean age was 44.53 years. Overall mortality was 32% (24 patients). Most common complication noted in this study was surgical site infection followed by pulmonary complications.Conclusions: Both MPI and Boey score were accurate in predicting the morbidity and mortality in PPU with higher scores having increased risk of morbidity and mortality. However, Boey score was more specific in predicting mortality and it can be used pre-operatively in predicting morbidity and mortality when compared to MPI which requires intra-operative findings for prediction.
Role of C-reactive protein in enhancing the diagnosis of acute appendicitis
Authors: Naqvi Raheel Hussan , Mani Abhinav , Rometra Sahil , Singh Gurbir
Published: February 2022

Background: Acute appendicitis is one of the common surgical emergencies. This study analysed C- reactive protein as a diagnostic marker of acute appendicitis.Objective of the current study was to investigate the efficacy of C-reactive protein in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis.Methods: A prospective study done on patients coming to hospital with clinical diagnosis of acute appendicitis and underwent appendectomy. Operative and histopathological findings were compared and analyzed with C- reactive protein.Results: A total of 100 patients were included in the study. CRP was more than 6mg/l in 89 patients, and out of 89 patients, 87 patients had histopathologically inflamed appendix and serum CRP estimation in diagnosis of acute appendicitis yield sensitivity of 90.6%, specificity of 50%, positive predictive value of 97.75% and negative predictive value of 18.2%.Conclusions: CRP was raised in patients with acute appendicitis and it aids as a marker for diagnosing acute appendicitis and decreasing the rate of negative appendectomy.
Cholelithiasis with epigastric hernia in down’s syndrome: a case report
Authors: Kankaria Jeevan , Madagond Santosh
Published: February 2022

Down’s syndrome is associated with various congenital anomalies, musculoskeletal abnormalities and also various anatomical variation in organ systems. In this report we are presenting a case of cholelithiasis with Epigastric hernia in 42 years Male down’s syndrome patient, on laparoscopic exploration found multiple rectus sheath defects in epigastric region and Moynihan hump. A rare case of Down’s syndrome with multiple anterior abdominal wall defects.
Granulomatous fat necrosis of breast a diagnostic dilemma: a rare case report
Authors: Mukesh Aswin , A. Murugan , K. V. Rajan
Published: February 2022

Fat necrosis in breast is a rare benign condition, which can mimic carcinoma and Tuberculosis (TB) of breast in both clinical and radiological assessment. Histopathology in such cases may distinguish granulomatous lesion from carcinoma, however granulomas are identified in both fat necrosis and tuberculosis which is difficult to differentiate. Fat necrosis in breast is often not associated with axillary lymph nodes, which can differentiate fat necrosis from tuberculosis and breast carcinoma. But high index of suspicion is always required. We hereby report a case of a 40-year old female, who presented with lump in the right breast which lead to diagnostic dilemma.
Primary lymphedema of the left lower limb in a new-born boy: a case report
Authors: Sharath A. P. , Ghritlaharey Rajendra K.
Published: February 2022

A 7-day-old boy was admitted with a history of swelling involving his left lower limb since birth. He was born normally to a Gravida 1, Para-0, to a 22-years-old mother. Antenatal history was nothing significant. His clinical examination revealed left lower limb swelling and was suggestive of primary lymphedema. It involved from the ankle area up to the groin of the left side of the limb. His right lower limb and both upper limbs were normal. His other systemic examination was also normal. He was treated with aseptic needle aspiration of the lymphatic fluid, and a compression dressing was applied. He suddenly died of an unknown reason while sleeping at around 4.00 AM on the third post aspiration day.
A penetrating thoracoabdominal injury with arrow head: a case report
Authors: De Suman , Dey Rudra , Biswas Siddhartha
Published: February 2022

Penetrating injuries to the chest present a frequent and challenging problem. The majority of these injuries can be managed non-operatively. The selection of patients for operation or observation can be made by clinical examination and appropriate investigations. A 17 years old male patient presented with an arrow inserted in his chest wall 5 cm. below right nipple. The patient was stable hemodynamically with no signs and symptoms of pneumothorax. Imaging of chest and abdomen, followed by laparotomy and removal of the arrow head from left lobe of liver performed.
Unusual presentation following blunt trauma abdomen: isolated gallbladder perforation
Authors: Rajendran Theakarajan , Kothagattu Ranjith , Verma Shikar , Gopal Balasubramanian
Published: February 2022

The gallbladder is a well-protected organ. Hence, injury to the gallbladder following blunt trauma is infrequent. The clinical presentation of gallbladder injury is variable, resulting in a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Isolated gallbladder perforation is a diagnosis of exclusion. Ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced CT are valuable assets in diagnosis. Cholecystectomy remains the procedure of choice. Mortality and morbidity is high in late presentations with biliary and bacterial peritonitis. It is thus necessary that the clinician be aware of this entity to have a high index of suspicion and to treat early.
Management of penetrating abdominal trauma in a resource limited setting of a district medical college, during COVID-19 pandemic: a case report
Authors: Bharti Ramesh , Bhatia Arvind , Dutt Sunil , Taneja Parvez , Sood Saloni , Chaudhary Rajesh
Published: February 2022

Penetrating trauma abdomen is a leading cause of injuries in the modern times. Most common causes are stabbing, gunshot wounds and industrial accidents. We present a case of penetrating trauma abdomen caused by a small metallic foreign body which entered through the anterior abdomen wall, caused jejunal perforation below umbilicus and was found in the lesser sac. It was a management challenge as we are a resource limited, newly established district medical college where the next referral centre is nearly 150 km away. The patient underwent a successful laparotomy where the perforation of the intestine was closed primarily and the foreign body was retrieved.
COVID-19 associated anxiety and perceived risk among the pregnant women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nooruddin Shanila , Khan Tooba Jawed , Nausheen Sidrah , Nasir Fouzia , Shaikh Ghulam Abbas , Shaikh Asif , Sadiqa Ayesha , Abbas Shabnam , Rizvi Arjumand , Soofi Sajid , Habib Muhammad Atif
Published: February 2022

Background: COVID-19 is an infectious disease, categorized as a global pandemic. Daily implications and coping strategies of pregnant women with coronavirus outbreak is currently unknown. This study will assess their knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP), risk perceptions, anxiety and concerns related to COVID-19.Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in Karachi. Self-reported questionnaires including KAP, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) scale and perception of pregnancy risk questionnaire were administered. Descriptive statistics were calculated for continuous variables and were reported as mean ± standard deviation. Frequencies and percentages were computed for categorical variables. Pearson correlation was calculated to explore linear associations among the perception of pregnancy risk, age, body mass index (BMI), and gestation. All data analysis was done using STATA 16.0.Results: The 575 pregnant women were enrolled with an average age of 26.07 years and 27.22±8.99 gestational age. Their knowledge showed that 92.2% knew that coronavirus causes COVID-19 and 72.30% knew the importance of wearing masks. Regarding attitudes, 96.3% felt safe to breastfeed their newborns, 80.20% considered changing their birth method whereas 54.6% were not concerned about the outbreak and around 70-80% cancelled their social gatherings. 72% trusted healthcare frontline staff with their struggle towards COVID-19. The 43.82% women were more anxious (scoring ≥7) and 56.17% were less anxious (<7) on GAD scale. The mean score for perceived risk for baby and mother was 22.95±13.72 and 19.40±0.57 respectively.Conclusions: Considering the burden of COVID-19, pregnant women’s perception is a major contributor to her and her baby’s health and wellbeing. Well-planned strategies by media, healthcare providers and government would significantly support such pregnant women during COVID-19.
Using the theory of planned behavior to understand student intent to use tobacco in California universities
Authors: Agroia Harit K. , Nelson Anna
Published: February 2022

Background: Most tobacco use, including addiction, starts between 18-26 years of age. To prevent this, the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) have implemented system-wide tobacco-free policies in recent years. The objective of this study was to investigate the association of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) constructs: attitude, subjective norms (SN), and perceived behavioral control (PBC) with intention to use tobacco among students in tobacco-free universities in California. Additional objectives were to understand whether these primary TPB constructs were influenced by various policy enforcement levels (i.e., communication and signage), and the availability of smoking cessation programs on campus.Methods: In this cross-sectional study conducted during March-May 2018, a survey was administered among students within select UC and CSU campuses. Students were recruited by cold-calling and emailing faculty to request assistance in disseminating an electronic survey to their students.Results: There was a total of 167 survey respondents (mean age=18-24 years). Results indicated that attitude (β=0.12, p<0.025), SN (β=0.18, p<0.001), and PBC (β=0.33, p<0.001) were significantly and positively associated with student intention. Results showed no significant differences between different enforcement levels and TPB constructs but did show significant positive differences in student attitude between campuses that offer smoking cessation programs and campuses that do not (t=2.55, f=6.50, p<0.001).Conclusions: Findings indicate tobacco-free policies positively influence shifts in student attitude and intention to use tobacco on California university campuses. Administrators are encouraged to tailor enforcement messages to increase compliance.
Perceptions of users and providers on barriers to utilizing skilled birth care in Surkhet district of Nepal: a qualitative study
Authors: Shah Sunil
Published: February 2022

Background: Although skilled birth care contributes significantly to the prevention of maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality, utilization of such care is poor in mid- and far-western Nepal. This study explored the perceptions of service users and providers regarding barriers to skilled birth care. Method: We conducted 24 focus group discussions, 12 each with service users and service providers from different health institutions in mid- and far-western Nepal. All discussions examined the perceptions and experiences of service users and providers regarding barriers to skilled birth care and explored possible solutions to overcoming such barriers.Results: Our results determined that major barriers to skilled birth care include inadequate knowledge of the importance of services offered by skilled birth attendants (SBAs), distance to health facilities, unavailability of transport services, and poor availability of SBAs. Other barriers included poor infrastructure, meager services, inadequate information about services/facilities, cultural practices and beliefs, and low prioritization of birth care. Moreover, the tradition of isolating women during and after childbirth decreased the likelihood that women would utilize delivery care services at health facilities.Conclusions: Service users and providers perceived inadequate availability and accessibility of skilled birth care in remote areas of Nepal, and overall utilization of these services was poor. Therefore, training and recruiting locally available health workers, helping community groups establish transport mechanisms, upgrading physical facilities and services at health institutions, and increasing community awareness of the importance of skilled birth care will help bridge these gaps.
Campus administrator perceptions of the effectiveness of tobacco-free policies in California universities
Authors: Agroia Harit K. , Nelson Anna
Published: February 2022

Background: In response to high levels of tobacco use among university students, the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems adopted tobacco-free policies in recent years. While few existing studies capture student response to these policies, there is no research that captures campus administrator perceptions on the effectiveness of these policies. This study was conducted to understand campus administrator perceptions of student compliance to tobacco-free policies in California universities.Methods: This was a qualitative study to understand campus administrator perceptions of student compliance to the tobacco-free policies on select California universities. Data collection took place between March-May 2018 and included key informant (KI) interviews and a focus group (FG) with campus administrators from selected universities. Content analysis using Atlas.ti software was conducted to interpret results.Results: Nine campus administrators participated in KI interviews and four further participated in a FG. Overall analysis of the results indicated that all administrators believe tobacco-free policies on their respective campuses are effective in reducing student tobacco use. Additionally, some administrators believed punitive methods were needed, while others felt creation of a cultural norm would be most effective, and all administrators believed smoking cessation programs were helpful resources to ensure policy compliance. Participants further agreed stronger implementation strategies relating to communicating policy provisions are needed to ensure student understanding of policy.Conclusions: Administrators perceive that tobacco-free policies are effective in reducing tobacco use among university students. It is recommended that additional strategies are utilized to increase student awareness of the policy.
Awareness and knowledge about refractive errors and strabismus in South Indian population
Authors: Pallerla Srinivasa Reddy , Khanna Rohit C. , Krishnaiah S. , Keeffe Jill
Published: February 2022

Background: To assess the awareness, knowledge about refractive errors and strabismus among the general public in southern Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.Methods: A cross sectional population-based survey used a semi structured questionnaire on awareness, knowledge on refractive errors and strabismus done as part of knowledge, attitude and practices study (KAP). Stratified multistage cluster random sampling method was used with a sample size of 867 adults- ≥16 years. Having heard of refractive error and strabismus was defined as awareness and having knowledge of the type of error for which spectacles were worn, was considered as knowledge. A pilot study was conducted to validate the questions used in the main study. Statistical package SPSS (version 19) was used for analysis to calculate logistic regression and odds ratios for gender, age, education and urban-rural areas.Results: A total of 782/867 (90.1%) subjects participated in the survey with females 47.4%. 581 subjects (74.3%) were aware of refractive error. 690 subjects (88.2%) were aware of squint. With multiple logistic regression about awareness of refractive error to various variables, subjects who were educated 11th class to degree had a higher awareness (OR: 2.40; CI: 1.25-4.60). With multiple logistic regression about awareness of squint to various variables, females had a higher awareness of squint (OR: 1.98; CI: 1.19-3.31).Conclusions: Awareness of squint and refractive error was high among the general public, but the knowledge of it was limited.
Effectiveness of structured teaching programme on knowledge regarding acute respiratory tract infections among mothers of under five children in selected rural area
Authors: . Sujata , Kumar Rohitash , Kumari Reema
Published: February 2022

Background: Acute respiratory tract infections cause the death of 4 million children under the age of 5 (annually). The factors of acute respiratory tract infections can be grouped into two categories, namely host and environment. Host includes factors such as malnutrition, immunization status, vitamin A deficiency, absence of breast-feeding, low birth weight and young age.Methods: Quasi experimental one group pre-test-post-test research design was adopted to conduct the study among 45 mothers of under five children residing in Mati, Rural area of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, who matched the inclusion criteria were selected through non-probability purposive sampling technique. On first day one pre-test followed by structured teaching programme was conducted and after seventh day post-test was taken. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.Results: The results revealed that the mean post-test knowledge score was higher than mean pre-test knowledge score with standard deviation 15.31±1.84 and 7.06±1.25 respectively. The improvement of knowledge score is the mean difference of 8.25 which shows that there was a significant change in knowledge level of mothers of under five children.Conclusions: The study concluded that the structured teaching programme was effective in improving the level of knowledge regarding acute respiratory tract infections among mothers of under five children.
Comparative study of tear film evaluation among healthy pregnant women and gestational diabetes: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Antony Cruse Jayakumar , Kumaran Samuel Livingstone , Pachiyappan Tamilselvan
Published: February 2022

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the risk factors for dry eye. This study aimed to estimate the characteristics of tear film by measuring the tear secretion, tear evaporation rate, conjunctival impression cytology and also ocular surface disease index (OSDI) scoring through a questionnaire for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and healthy pregnant women (HPW).Methods: Total of 40 subjects which included 20 subjects who were HPW in group-1 and 20 subjects who were GDM in group-2. After examining their ocular status, the subjects were initially administered with OSDI questionnaire followed by dry eye evaluation procedures such as non-invasive tear breakup time (NIBUT), Schirmer’s 1 and 2, tear film break up time (TBUT) and conjunctival impression cytology (CIC).Results: The gathered data was checked for normality. Mean and standard deviation was compiled for each parameter for their respective groups. A statistical comparison with independent t test was performed between the groups which compared OSDI scores, NIBUT, Schirmer’s 1 and 2, TBUT and CIC for both HPW and GDM group women. Statistically significant difference (p<0.01) was observed with OSDI scores, Schirmer's test 2, TBUT and NIBUT whereas Schirmer's test 1 and CIC were not statistically significant (p>0.01). OSDI scores represented mild symptoms for GDM women.Conclusions: Tear film of GDM women was affected more than HPW suggesting evaporative dry eye. Assessing tear film as a part of routine eye examination for women with GDM is essential to avoid the occurrence of complications due to tear film abnormalities.
Assessment of knowledge and practice regarding menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls in government school of Kanpur Nagar: a descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: Singh Sapna , Tyagi Preeti , Anand Deepak , Gupta Rashmi
Published: February 2022

Background: Adolescent population makes one fifth of world population and in India 21% of the population falls in this group. Social prohibitions and traditional beliefs prevalent in our society lead to inadequate hygiene practices.Methods: Study was done in 304 adolescent girls in a government girls school of Kanpur Nagar by  pretested printed questioners in a awareness program on menstrual hygiene. It was a descriptive cross sectional study among 304 school going adolescent girls of 13-19 year age.Results: The mean age of menarche was 13.23 years while mean age of study participants was 15.69 years. Nearly 96.68% used sanitary pads during menses whereas 3.31% use house hold materials. The most common symptom during menstruation was dysmenorrhoea which was recorded in 22.85% study participants.  In 79.47% cases first informant was mother about menstruation knowledge while 79.47% girl did not report any social discrimination during menstruation.Conclusions: In this study menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls in a government girls school of UP was satisfactory probably because of various government scheme like menstrual hygiene management (MHM), provision of clean water and sanitation facility and distribution of free sanitary pads at monthly interval to all menstruating adolescent girls. Mother was the first informant on menstruation in most cases. Here school teacher can play a pivotal role in educating all adolescent girls and their mother about menstrual hygiene practices.
Screening for HIV among presumptive and microbiologically confirmed tuberculosis patients in a tertiary care hospital, Puducherry
Authors: Pradeep Kumar , Velavan Anandan , Niranjan Rajasekar , Samundeswari Gopinathan , Purty Anil J.
Published: February 2022

Background: Screening of presumptive cases of TB for HIV is a challenge as it requires pre-test counselling and informed consent of the patients. This study aims to measure the proportion of presumptive TB cases who were screened for HIV status and their outcome.Methods: The present study was a record based cross sectional study comprising of all presumptive and confirmed cases of tuberculosis patients who visited PIMS during the study period, from June 2019 to June 2021. Percentage and proportions were used to express the outcome variable.Results: A total of 862(39.3%) out of 2,193 presumptive tuberculosis patients were screened for HIV in the last 2 years, out of which 9 patients (1%) turned positive. Out of 328 microbiologically confirmed tuberculosis patients we have screened 325(99%) patients and 6 (1.8%) patients were found to be positive.Conclusions: As per provide initiated HIV testing and counselling guidelines, screening of presumptive cases of TB yielded positive results in identifying additional cases of HIV positive patients.
MER Signal Acquisition of STN-DBS Biomarkers in Parkinson`s: A machine learning auto regression approach
Authors: Rama Raju Venkateshwarla , Rani Balmuri Kavitha , Srinivas Konda , Madhukar G.
Published: February 2022

Microelectrode recording (MER) or microelectrode signals recording of local field potentials by means of subthalamic-nuclei deep brain stimulation is highly successful for construing or deducing Parkinson disease (PD) signal analysis acquiescent to elucidation are fetching ever more germane. These signals are supposed to emulate STN neurons action-potential movement and, these potential frequency modulations are coupled to spiking-events. The method uses auto regression stochastic (random nature) model machine learning approach and, other standard techniques as of system identification field. A usual conventional local field potential implication involves computing spectral-densities, i.e., power (P S Ds) of these signals—waveforms, that confines power on different frequencies. But, P S D s is second-order statistics might not confine non trivial temporal-dependencies which subsist in unprocessed data. Hence, we suggest L F Ps technique which is valuable in support of relating or unfolding distinctive plus sole features of temporal-dependencies in L F P waveforms. This technique is derived as of auto-regression (A R) modeling originating as of the systems plus control theory in fastidious systems-identification. We have distinctively, built A R models of L F P movement activity plus inferred, and also verified statistically major differentiations in temporal-dependencies among damaged tissues of nuclei plus protective areas in Parkinson`s receiving innocuous microelectrodes via deep brain stimulator (D BS). Differentiations in spectral-densities of field-waveforms amid the two conglomerates were not statistically-significant.
Neuroscience & outer space travel: The final frontier
Authors: Mishra Ritwik , Shashivadhanan S
Published: February 2022

Space travel is soon going to be a reality. With already 700 people signed up for commercial trip the scientific community is being pushed to limits which knows no boundaries. Over the past Six Decades outer space has slowly been unraveling itself in a manner which has transformed from a generating a response of fear to that of challenge. Because of the harsh environment in space, astronauts are at risk of both short- and long-term health risks. The 2 major challenges associated with spaceflight are radiation effects and the physiologic consequences of a microgravity environment. Many of the immediate risks (decompression, thermal injury, arcing injuries) are mitigated by the design of the spacecraft and spacesuits. The biologic effects of long-term exposure to space radiation are still unclear. It may range from, development of cataracts and concerto altered neurobiology.
A comparative study of the role of cytopathology, staining for acid-fast bacilli and genexpert MTB/RIF assay in the diagnosis of tubercular lymphadenopathy
Authors: Ahmed Saqib , Ansari Hena A , Fatima Nazish
Published: February 2022

The diagnosis of tubercular lymphadenopathy can be made by FNAC combined with staining for AFB along with newer methods like GeneXpert assay. India carries one of the largest burdens of TB accounting for twenty-seven per cent of worldwide cases.

To evaluate the role of cytopathology, AFB staining and GeneXpert assay in the rapid diagnosis of tubercular lymphadenopathy along with the usefulness of GeneXpert assay in the diagnosis of indeterminate aspirates.

A total of 372 patients presenting with lymphadenopathy and clinical suspicion of a tubercular aetiology were included in the analysis.183 patients (56%) were adults (20-59 years) followed by 66 patients (20%)in the paediatric age group. 189 were females(57.3%) and 141 were males (42.7%). The cervical group of lymph nodes were most commonly involved (66%).69.1% were AFB positive in 201 smears with features favouring tubercular infection (positive cytology) which increased to 183 (91%) when GeneXpert Analysis was done, while 72 cases (55.8%) were AFB positive on cases with indeterminate cytology which showed an increment to 108 cases (83.7%) on the application of GeneXpert.

FNAC combined with ZN staining and GeneXpert has a much higher diagnostic accuracy, GeneXpert further prevents underdiagnosis and enables rapid and accurate diagnosis in cases with indeterminate/inconclusive FNAC and ZN staining.
Primary testicular T cell Non Hodgkin Lymphoma with unusual histomorphology: A rare case
Authors: Rani R Nisarga , K Madan , Biswas Siddhartha , Rao Anuradha C K
Published: February 2022

Primary testicular non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is an uncommon extra nodal lymphoma presentation, constituting 1-2% of all lymphomas. Majority are of B-Cell type, with very few cases being primary T-Cell phenotype.

A 28 years male presented with painless, unilateral testicular swelling with elevated serum LDH levels, beta HCG and AFP serum levels were within normal limits.

Gross evaluation of high inguinal orchidectomy specimen showed an enlarged homogenous, grey white lobulated mass with adjacent entrapped testicular parenchyma. Microscopy showed diffuse sheets of medium sized, monomorphic atypical lymphoid cells with sparing of adjacent seminiferous tubules. A panel of Immunohistochemistry markers done were suggestive of T-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

Testicular T cell NHL are extremely rare amongst the testicular lymphomas, constituting for 5% of all testicular tumours. This case is being presented for its rarity in literature, especially in young age group and the unusual histomorphology.
Canada's foreign policy agenda after the 2021 elections
Authors: Issraelyan Evgenia
Published: February 2022

After winning the elections, each new government begins to form the priorities of domestic and foreign policy. The authorities are guided by the ideology and traditions of their party, the assessment of global challenges, their own vision of the national interests of the country and its role in the world. The foreign policy program of the Liberal Party, which won the elections in 2021, was outlined in a special section of its electoral platform, which is called "A Principled Approach to Foreign Policy". The foreign policy agenda of the Government of Justin Trudeau maintains continuity of principles and contains new approaches which take into account the realities of the modern world order.
The Current State of Russian-Canadian Economic Relations
Authors: Khoroshilov Evgeny
Published: February 2022

The article analyzes the current state of Russian-Canadian economic relations, examines trends in bilateral trade and accumulated direct investments. It is shown that Russian exports to Canada are now back to the levels seen before 2014, while Canadian exports to Russia have not been able to recover from the consequences of a sharp deterioration in bilateral relations. It is concluded that Canada supplies Russia mainly with products with high added value, while Russian exports to the Canadian market are dominated by raw materials and low-value products. It is indicated that the scale of Russian-Canadian investment cooperation has significantly decreased after 2014. However, there is noticeable Russian presence in the Canadian metallurgical industry and agricultural machinery engineering, while Canadian companies have strong positions in Russian mining sector and vehicle engineering. It is noted that Russian-Canadian economic relations remain hostage to the hostile policy of the ruling circles of Canada towards Russia.
Dermatoglyphics – A Concise Review on Basic Embryogenesis, Classification and Theories of Formation of Fingerprints
Authors: Bommanavar Sushma , Anj Moham , Karuppaiah Muthu , Ingale Yashwant , Ingale Manjusa
Published: February 2022

The study of fingerprints known as Dermatoglyphics, has been utilized for individual identification in forensics for greater than 2000 years. They have been fully analyzed from various points of views such as embryogenesis, patterns of fingerprints and empirical mechanisms on how they are formed. Several studies have also linked them to certain human features such as gender, etc. This review paper is a systematic compilation on basic embryogenesis, classification of fingerprints and several canonical mechanisms involved in fingerprint formation. The knowledge about this is essential and can open new innovative areas for researchers working in forensics that can help solve the criminal disputes and cases.
Microalgae growth and diversity in anaerobic digestate compared to synthetic media
Authors: Ermis Hande , Güven-Gülhan Ünzile , Çakır Tunahan , Altınbaş Mahmut
Published: February 2022

Economizing microalgal cultivation is a considerable milestone targeted by efforts put into microalgal biorefineries. In light of that, the present study was aimed to explore the potential of using anaerobic liquid digestate (ALD) as culture media to grow microalgae and compared it with three different synthetic media (i.e., N8, BBM, and M8) in terms of biomass yield, fatty acid composition, and nutrient utilization/recovery. Moreover, a mixed culture of wild-type microalgae was employed in this study owing to the ability of mixed cultures to survive extreme conditions, eliminating the risk of losing the culture easily, as it mostly happens with pure cultures. The highest nutrient yield coefficients were achieved when the mixed microalgae culture was cultivated in ALD, where the yield coefficient for nitrogen (YN) and yield coefficient for phosphorus (YP) were 10.7 mg biomass mg-1 N and 98 mg biomass mg-1 P, respectively. The highest lipid content (34%) and the highest concentrations of C16:0 (114 mg L-1) and C18:0 (60.9 mg L-1) were also recorded when the mixed microalgae culture was cultivated in ALD. Furthermore, the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) content also increased significantly in ALD, a beneficial phenomenon as PUFAs in microalgae allow them to adapt more effectively to extreme conditions. Based on the microbial community analysis performed using the multi-marker metabarcoding approach, Diphylleia rotans, Synechocystis PCC-6803, Cyanobium gracile PCC 6307, and Chlorella sorokiniana were identified as the most abundant species in the ALD growth. Overall, based on the findings of the present study, ALD could be used as a promising cultivation medium for microalgae, offering a process integration approach to combine anaerobic digestion and algae cultivation as an effective way to simultaneously treat the high-strength dark-colored ALD and valorize it into profitable byproducts.