bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation, consequences and ways of reducing the state debt of Ukraine
Authors: BILETSKA Olena
Published: October 2021

Introduction. In the current realities of Ukraine, this problem affects all segments of society. The article reflects the peculiarities of the formation, the main consequences of the debt and the directions of its reduction.
The purpose of the paper is to analyze the volume, identify the peculiarities of the formation, highlight the consequences and justify ways to reduce Ukraine's public debt.
Results. The study focuses on the importance of public debt and its impact on economic development. It is emphasized that one of the significant problems is the significant cost of. The dynamics of public debt of Ukraine during 2014–2020 is analyzed. According to the results of the analysis, the signs of dynamism, currency comparison, proportionality of external and internal debt are determined. The positive and negative consequences of the debt are substantiated with the corresponding argumentation. The essence of the positive consequences is the possibility of maintaining Ukraine's gold and foreign exchange balance at a reliable level in compliance with the necessary settlement standards and promoting the stability of the national currency. In addition, it is important formation of a positive image of Ukraine as a country with a stable financial system. The negative consequences are manifested in the fact that significant amounts of debt cause the allocation of budget funds for its maintenance, which is a burden on the implementation of economic and social programs. Negative processes are also being formed in society, as the conditions for providing the next tranches, especially from the International Monetary Fund, affect social problems and do not always find understanding in large sections of society. Relationships with international creditors, in particular the International Monetary Fund, and governments of other countries were assessed. Proposals for debt reduction have been developed with a recommendation to implement measures for the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, relevant ministries of production and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.
Conclusion. The peculiarities of public debt formation are revealed in the work, its influence on the economy of Ukraine is determined and substantiated proposals on reduction of its volumes are developed.
Procedures settlement of customs disputes in the administrative proceedings of Ukraine
Authors: ONISHCHYK Yurii , ABDUKADYROVA Karine
Published: October 2021

It was found that customs disputes in administrative proceedings are resolved in the general claim procedure, simplified claim proceedings and claim proceedings in certain categories of administrative cases. Examples of such administrative cases on customs disputes are given. The procedure for resolving administrative cases on customs disputes in the court of first instance is considered.
It is established that at the stage of preparatory proceedings such procedures for resolving customs disputes in administrative proceedings as the procedure for settling a dispute with the participation of a judge and the procedure for conciliation of the parties are provided. The specifics of these procedures for resolving customs disputes in administrative proceedings are described. It is concluded that in resolving customs disputes in administrative proceedings, the dispute settlement procedure with the participation of a judge can be applied only before the trial on the merits, and the conciliation procedure — at any stage of consideration and resolution of customs disputes in the manner prescribed Code of Administrative Procedure of Ukraine. It is noted that in contrast to the dispute settlement procedure with the participation of a judge, the decision on the results of the conciliation procedure of the parties can be appealed.
It is noted that the forms of review of court decisions have certain features, but in general are carried out according to the general procedure of consideration and resolution of customs disputes in administrative proceedings.
It is stated that the procedures for resolving customs disputes in administrative proceedings are characterized by certain specifics. This is due to the special subject composition (obligatory subjects of resolving customs disputes in court are customs authorities and individuals or legal entities that move items across the customs border), the scope of legal regulation (customs disputes arise from customs relations) and evidence (documents and information required for customs control and customs clearance).
Development of the global pharmaceutical market under the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: POSHYVALOVA Olena
Published: October 2021

The paper examines the peculiarities of development of the global pharmaceutical market under the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been proved that pharmaceutics is currently one of the most dynamic and science-intensive sectors of economy in Ukraine and across the world with its development stipulated by a growing demand for pharmaceutical products and the increase in government expenditures for healthcare. The purpose of the presented work is the analysis of development of the global pharmaceutical market under the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is established that the growth of the global pharmaceutical market is preconditioned primarily by the following trends: growth in the segment of biologically active additives (BAA) and the generic drug segment; epidemiological and economic changes; growth in demand for medication which is effective in the treatment of diseases previously typical only for the developed countries. An analysis has been conducted with regard to the dynamics of health-care costs over the period of 1995–2020 among three groups of countries: with high / medium / low per capita income. According to the results of the statistic analysis of the foreign trade balance of Ukraine in the period of 2016–2020 it was asserted that within the structure of foreign trade operations the importation of pharmaceutical products significantly exceeds its exportation. Contrary to the global market with its upward trend of growing consumption of medicines, Ukraine manifests fairly modest consumption, mainly stipulated by low purchasing power of the population. A ranking of the leading companies in the Ukrainian market of pharmaceutical products has been established with regard to three indicators: the growth of sales, the Evolution Index, the market share. The paper scrutinizes possible risks in the global pharmaceutical market in consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic: disruption of the global supply chain; deficit of medications for intensive care units and emergent of bottlenecks in their production distribution; decline in demand for prescription medicines. Among the local short-term risks for the pharmaceutical market of Ukraine are as follows: a relatively slow recovery of basic macroeconomic indicators; structure of household expenditures; increased fiscal pressure on manufacturers; unstable political and economic situation within the country.
Istanbul convention and the latest approach to preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence
Authors: LOZINSKA Svitlana
Published: October 2021

The paper is devoted to the study of the current model for combating and preventing violence against women and domestic violence, adopted and implemented in the framework of the Council of Europe through the prism of the Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Istanbul Convention). Therefore the purpose of the paper is to establish the content and components of the latest mechanism for preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, enshrined in the provisions of the Istanbul Convention, analysis of the standards embodied in the Convention in this area, their international legal significance and consequences of implementation in national law of Council of Europe member states.
Author, among other things, states that Istanbul Convention is not only an international act aimed at consolidating the fundamental rights and guarantees of protection of women from all forms of violence and discrimination, but also seeks to institutionalize a system for preventing and combating violence against women, based on national, regional and international policies in these areas, offering organizational and legal mechanisms for assistance and cooperation in the international arena and in the context of ensuring the effectiveness of the functioning of the internal law enforcement agencies of the signatory states.
It is concluded that the Istanbul Convention is unprecedented and systematic document of public international law in its objectives and scope, aimed at comprehensively preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence not only within the Council of Europe, but also at the European civilization level in general. Its adoption demonstrates the formation of the latest concept of protection of women's rights and the fight against violence and discrimination, based on the values of modern European society.
Application of digital health for improving medication adherence in MS patients
Authors:   Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran, Mahmoudi Farhad , Mokarram Mahtab , Sabouhi Sadegh , Hashemi Sara , Saberi Parastoo , Zamanian Hadi
Published: October 2021

Review question / Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of digital health interventions in monitoring and improving medication adherence in Multiple Sclerosis patients. Condition being studied: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which leads to focal lesions in the white matter, characterized by selective primary demyelination with partial preservation of axons and reactive astrocytic gliosis. The disease is thought to be due to a complex interaction between different genetic and environmental factors. The prevalence of MS is rising all over the world, due on one hand to earlier diagnosis and prolonged survival, and on the other to a true increase in incidence of the disease. The diagnosis of MS remains clinical despite recent advances in diagnostics and relies on demonstrating dissemination in space and time while excluding alternative diagnoses.
Učinkovite strategije učenja i kreativne metode poučavanja hrvatskoga jezika u razrednoj nastavi
Authors: Lazzarich Marinko
Published: October 2021

Učenje je važan proces u intelektualnom sazrijevanju i socijalizaciji ličnosti, a određuju ga brojne komponente među kojima su najvažnije kognicija, motivacija i emocije. Kako suvremena nastava zahtijeva aktivnu ulogu učenika u procesu učenja, ključni element za uspješno učenje jest kvalitetno poučavanje. Učiteljima je glavni izazov kako pobuditi interes među učenicima za obrazovno područje, stoga se poučavanje treba temeljiti na izboru primjerenih pristupa i postupaka. U ovom radu raspravljalo se o učinkovitim strategijama i oblicima učenja u nastavi Hrvatskoga jezika na nižem stupnju primarnoga obrazovanja, u razrednoj nastavi. Hrvatski jezik složen je nastavni predmet, stoga funkcionalna nastava jezika i književnosti zahtijeva svrhovitost metoda i oblika rada. Motrili smo primjenjivost suradničkoga, iskustvenoga i samoreguliranoga učenja. Priloženi su različiti kreativni postupci u ranoj fazi učenja jezika te ponuđene smjernice za rad s učenicima u razrednoj nastavi. Važno je učenicima omogućiti situacije u kojima će osvijestiti svoj proces učenja i preuzeti odluke o tome kako će ostvariti planirane ishode i ciljeve učenja.
Obrada vokativnih obilježja u suvremenim udžbenicima i školskim gramatikama hrvatskoga jezika
Authors: Božanić Petra
Published: October 2021

Cilj je ovoga rada na korpusu aktualnih udžbenika hrvatskoga jezika za osnovnu i srednju školu, odabranih prema Konačnom rezultatu odabira udžbenika iz „Kataloga odobrenih udžbenika u školskoj godini 2020./2021. – osnovne škole“ i Konačnom rezultatu odabira udžbenika iz „Kataloga odobrenih udžbenika u školskoj godini 2020./2021. – srednje škole“, te četirima suvremenim školskim gramatikama hrvatskoga jezika autora Silića i Pranjkovića (2007), Težaka i Babića (2016), Ham (2017) te Hudeček i Mihaljević (2019), analizirati obradu vokativa i kategorije vokativnosti u okviru nastavnoga predmeta Hrvatski jezik s obzirom na vokativna fonetska, fonološka, morfološka, sintaktička, pravopisna i pragmatičko-semantička obilježja. Rezultati istraživanja upućuju na predstavljanje vokativa kao padeža u kontekstu formalno-gramatičkoga pristupa s isticanjem njegovih oblikotvornih obilježja i sintaktičke autonomije, a komunikacijske vokativne funkcije u okviru funkcionalne jezikoslovne paradigme gotovo su posve zanemarene.
Rapid Radical–Radical Induced Explosive Desorption of Ice-coated Interstellar Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Cheng , Bergantini Alexandre , Singh Santosh K. , Abplanalp Matthew J. , Kaiser Ralf I.
Published: October 2021

The observation of complex organic molecules (COMs) in the gas phase of cold molecular clouds has coined a freeze-out paradox in astrophysics: COMs should be accreted on low-temperature interstellar grains, but not observable in cold molecular clouds. Still, validated mechanisms transporting molecules from the grains back into the gas phase are still elusive, but critical for our understanding of the chemical evolution of the molecular universe. Here we report on the first characterization of rapid radical reactions involving methyl (CH3) and formyl (HCO) radicals in interstellar analogous ices of methane (CH4) and carbon monoxide (CO) upon exposure to proxies of galactic cosmic rays. Rapid radical chain reactions and explosive desorption occurred once the accumulated radicals surpassed critical concentrations of about 1% in the ices at temperatures of cold molecular clouds (5–10 K). These processes may explain the ejection and observation of COMs in the gas phase of cold molecular clouds and potentially rapid outbursts of comets.
Predicting the Magnetic Fields of a Stealth CME Detected by Parker Solar Probe at 0.5 au
Authors: Palmerio Erika , Kay Christina , Al-Haddad Nada , Lynch Benjamin J. , Yu Wenyuan , Stevens Michael L. , Pal Sanchita , Lee Christina O.
Published: October 2021

Stealth coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are eruptions from the Sun that are not associated with appreciable low-coronal signatures. Because they often cannot be linked to a well-defined source region on the Sun, analysis of their initial magnetic configuration and eruption dynamics is particularly problematic. In this article, we address this issue by undertaking the first attempt at predicting the magnetic fields of a stealth CME that erupted in 2020 June from the Earth-facing Sun. We estimate its source region with the aid of off-limb observations from a secondary viewpoint and photospheric magnetic field extrapolations. We then employ the Open Solar Physics Rapid Ensemble Information modeling suite to evaluate its early evolution and forward model its magnetic fields up to Parker Solar Probe, which detected the CME in situ at a heliocentric distance of 0.5 au. We compare our hindcast prediction with in situ measurements and a set of flux-rope reconstructions, obtaining encouraging agreement on arrival time, spacecraft-crossing location, and magnetic field profiles. This work represents a first step toward reliable understanding and forecasting of the magnetic configuration of stealth CMEs and slow streamer-blowout events.
Mapping the 3D Kinematical Structure of the Gas Disk of HD 169142
Authors: Yu Haochuan , Teague Richard , Bae Jaehan , Öberg Karin
Published: October 2021

The disk around HD 169142 has been suggested to host multiple embedded planets due to the range of structures observed in the dust distributions. We analyze archival Atacama Large (sub-) Millimetre Array observations of 12CO (2–1), 13CO (2–1), and C18O (2–1) to search for large-scale kinematic structures associated with other embedded planets in the outer disk. At 125 au, we identify a coherent flow from the disk surface to the midplane, traced by all three CO isotopologues, and interpret it as a meridional flow potentially driven by an embedded planet. We use changes in the rotation speed of the gas to characterize the physical structure across this region, finding that at 125 au the CO emission traces regions of increased gas pressure, despite being at a surface density minimum. Developing a simple analytical model, we demonstrate that the physical structure of the gap can have non-trivial responses to changes in the surface density, consistent both with previous thermo-chemical models and the conditions inferred observationally. Applying this technique to a range of sources will allow us to directly confront theoretical models of gap-opening in protoplanetary disks.
Two Sites of r-process Production Assessed on the Basis of the Age-tagged Abundances of Solar Twins
Authors: Tsujimoto Takuji
Published: October 2021

Solar twins, i.e., stars that are nearly identical to the Sun, including their metallicities, in the solar vicinity show ages widely distributed from 0 to 10 Gyr. This fact matches the orbital history of solar twins in the new paradigm of galactic dynamics, in which stars radially move on the disk when they encounter transient spiral arms. This finding suggests that older twins were born closer to the Galactic center and traveled a longer distance to reach their present location, according to the hypothesis that chemical enrichment occurs more quickly and that solar metallicity is attained on a shorter timescale with a decreasing Galactocentric distance (R
GC). We show that abundance patterns covering a wide range of heavy elements for solar twins sharing similar ages are identical and that their variation among different age groups can be understood on the basis of the age–R
GC connection within the framework of Galactic chemical evolution. This study identifies the Galactic bulge as the birthplace of the oldest solar twins. Based on this scheme, we find that the relation between [r-process/Fe] and R
GC for the inner Galactic region is incompatible with the hypothesis of a sole site for r-process production, that is, neutron star mergers, whose delay time distribution could be approximated by the power-law form (∝ t

n
). Alternatively, this relation suggests the presence of two distinct sites for r-process production: short-lived massive stars, ending with specific core-collapse supernovae, and neutron star mergers that are heavily inclined to emerge with longer delay times, as represented by n = 0−0.5.
Growth potential of Listeria monocytogenes in veal tartare
Authors: Stella Simone , Bernardi Cristian , Tirloni Erica
Published: October 2021

In the present study the growth potential of Listeria monocytogenes in veal tartare was evaluated. A challenge test was performed on three tartare batches at 8°C, aiming to evaluate the growth potential of the pathogen. The data indicated the absence of a significant growth (δ<0.5 log cfu/g) during the entire period. When considering intermediate sampling times, an increase of 0.56 log cfu/g was detected after five days of storage in one of the batches. Microflora of veal tartare was dominated by lactic acid bacteria, that increased gradually during the trial, reaching counts up to 7 Log CFU/g in two of the three batches considered. Spoilage bacteria were present (especially Pseudomonas spp., yeasts and Enterobacteriaceae) but in very low counts and with a limited increase during the period considered. Finally, daily maximum tolerable L. monocytogenes counts were calculated to highlight the maximum acceptable load to avoid the overcoming of the legal limit of 100 CFU/g: a total increase of 0.95 log cfu/g in 12 days of shelf-life was estimated, obtaining a “safety initial concentration” at t0 of 10 CFU/g of the pathogen.
Phenotypic and genotypic study on antibiotic resistance and pathogenic factors of Staphylococcus aureus isolates from small ruminant mastitis milk in South of Italy (Sicily)
Authors: Parco Alessio , Macaluso Giusi , Foti Maria , Vitale Maria , Fisichella Vittorio , Tolone Marco , Loria Guido Ruggero
Published: October 2021

Staphyloccoccus aureus is the major cause of mastitis in small ruminants in the Mediterranean farms causing severe losses to dairy industry. Antibiotic treatment has been the most common approach to control these infections. Aim of this study was to investigate antimicrobial resistance (AMR), virulence factors and biofilm-related genes of 84 Sicilian strains of S. aureus isolated from sheep and goats milk during two different periods δT1 (2006-2009) and δT2 (2013-2015). Kirby Bauer method and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) were utilized to monitor AMR and related genes (mecA, tetK, tetM, ermA, ermC). Moreover, toxin genes (tsst-1, sea-see, seg-sej, and sep) and biofilm genes (bap, ica, sasC) were studied. Twenty-six isolates (30.9%) showed multidrug resistance. The two groups showed similar results with exception for higher values of resistance for tilmicosin and lower for sulfamethoxazole and vancomycin of the second group. MecA gene was detected in one isolate. Tetracycline resistance was higher than 20%, with an increase in δT2 group. Toxin genes were found in 5 isolates (5.9%), belonging of δT2 group, while 57 of isolates (67.8%) showed biofilm related genes. The high presence of multi-resistant isolates suggests the need of more responsible use of antibiotic therapy for the control of these infections.
Effectiveness of alkaline electrolyzed water in reducing bacterial load on surfaces intended to come into contact with food
Authors: Tomasello Federico , Pollesel Marta , Mondo Elisabetta , Savini Federica , Scarpellini Raffaele , Giacometti Federica , Lorito Luna , Tassinari Marco , Cuomo Sean , Piva Silvia , Serraino Andrea
Published: October 2021

Alkaline electrolyzed water (REW) is known for its cleaning action. The aim of this work was to assess REW effectiveness in reducing microbial load on surfaces intended for contact with food. Stainlesssteel surfaces were experimentally contaminated, bacterial inactivation was tested before and after treatment with REW. Treatment with REW was operated spraying it on the contaminated plates until drying. Tests were conducted for Salmonella spp., Listeria spp., Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The treatment revealed different degrees of sanitizing activity of REW on different bacterial species, with higher efficacy on E. coli and Salmonella spp. than S. aureus, Listeria spp.. Statistical analysis revealed a significant microbial load reduction (p<0.01) after treatment with REW, suggesting that it has a good disinfectant activity which, along with its easy and safe use, makes it a good alternative to many other more widely used disinfectants.
Analysis of Retinal Layers' Thickness and Vascular Density after Successful Scleral Buckle Surgery
Authors: Hassanpoor Narges , Milani Amir Eftekhari , Kordestani Alireza , Niyousha Mohamad Reza
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

To investigate retinal layers' thickness and vascular density after successful scleral buckle surgery using the optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) method.

Methods:

In this prospective interventional case-control study, 24 patients with macular-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) were included after performing successful reattachment by scleral buckling. Retinal layers' thickness and vascular density were assessed in the patients using the OCTA method compared to normal fellow eyes as controls 10 months postoperation.

Results:

Inner retinal layers showed no significant difference, but there was a significant reduction in outer central 1-mm retinal layers' thickness. Outer plexiform-Bruch's membrane (153.1 ± 24.3 μm vs. 166.2 ± 15.1 μm, P = 0.003) and ellipsoid zone to Bruch's membrane (51.25 ± 9.3 μm vs. 57.35 ± 3.8 μm, P = 0.009) were thinner in the operated eyes compared to fellow eyes. Vascular density within a 300 μm wide region around the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) (foveal density-300) was significantly lower in the detached eyes (46.28% ± 7.12% vs. 51.01% ± 4.73%, P = 0.016), however, there was no difference in superficial and deep vascular density at 1-mm central circle. Superficial parafoveal vascular density was lower in the operated eyes (46.24% ± 5.30% vs. 49.52% ± 5.93%, P = 0.026) with no significant difference in deep parafoveal vascular density (49.93 ± 4.29% vs. 51.88% ± 4.79%, P = 0.137). There was no difference in FAZ area and perimeter between the two groups.

Conclusions:

Complete recovery of retinal thickness and vascular density did not achieve in the patients with RRD even after 10 months of reattachment by scleral buckling surgery. Superficial capillary vascular density was more affected than deep vascular density almost in the parafoveal area.
Comparison of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes in infertile men with spermatogenic impairment of differing severity
Authors: Ping Ping , Zheng Zhong , Ma Yi , Zou Sha-Sha , Chen Xiang-Feng
Published: October 2021

The extent of spermatogenic impairment on intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes and the risk of major birth defects have been little assessed. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between various spermatogenic conditions, sperm origin on ICSI outcomes, and major birth defects. A total of 934 infertile men attending the Center for Reproductive Medicine of Ren Ji Hospital (Shanghai, China) were classified into six groups: nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA; n = 84), extremely severe oligozoospermia (esOZ; n = 163), severe oligozoospermia (sOZ, n = 174), mild oligozoospermia (mOZ; n = 148), obstructive azoospermia (OAZ; n = 155), and normozoospermia (NZ; n = 210). Rates of fertilization, embryo cleavage, high-quality embryos, implantation, biochemical and clinical pregnancies, abortion, delivery, newborns, as well as major birth malformations, and other newborn outcomes were analyzed and compared among groups. The NOA group showed a statistically lower fertilization rate (68.2% vs esOZ 77.3%, sOZ 78.0%, mOZ 73.8%, OAZ 76.6%, and NZ 79.3%, all P < 0.05), but a significantly higher implantation rate (37.8%) than the groups esOZ (30.1%), sOZ (30.4%), mOZ (32.6%), and OAZ (31.0%) (all P < 0.05), which was similar to that of Group NZ (38.4%). However, there were no statistically significant differences in rates of embryo cleavage, high-quality embryos, biochemical and clinical pregnancies, abortions, deliveries, major birth malformations, and other newborn outcomes in the six groups. The results showed that NOA only negatively affects some embryological outcomes such as fertilization rate. There was no evidence of differences in other embryological and clinical outcomes with respect to sperm source or spermatogenic status. Spermatogenic failure and sperm origins do not impinge on the clinical outcomes in ICSI treatment.
Magnetic-activated cell sorting of nonapoptotic spermatozoa with a high DNA fragmentation index improves the live birth rate and decreases transfer cycles of IVF/ICSI
Authors: Mei Jie , Chen Lin-Jun , Zhu Xin-Xin , Yu Wen , Gao Qing-Qiang , Sun Hai-Xiang , Ding Li-Jun , Wang Jun-Xia
Published: October 2021

The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) in sperm preparation for male subjects with a sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) ≥30%. A total of 86 patients who had undergone their first long-term long protocol were selected. The protocol involvedin vitrofertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles, and the patients were divided into the MACS or control groups. The MACS group included sperm samples analyzed with MACS that were combined with density gradient centrifugation (DGC) and the swim-up (SU) technique (n= 39), and the control group included sperm samples prepared using standard techniques (DGC and SU;n= 41). No differences were noted with regard to basic clinical characteristics, number of oocytes retrieved, normal fertilization rate, cleavage rate, or transplantable embryo rate between the two groups in IVF/ICSI. In addition, the clinical pregnancy and implantation rates of the first embryo transfer cycles indicated no significant differences between the two groups. However, there was a tendency to improve the live birth rate (LBR) of the first embryo transfer cycle (63.2%vs53.9%) and the cumulative LBR (79.5%vs70.7%) in the MACS group compared with the control group. Moreover, the number of transferred embryos (mean ± standard deviation [s.d.]: 1.7 ± 0.7vs2.3 ± 1.6) and the transfer number of each retrieved cycle (mean ± s.d.: 1.2 ± 0.5vs1.6 ± 0.8) were significantly lower in the MACS group than those in the control group. Thus, the selection of nonapoptotic spermatozoa by MACS for higher sperm DFI could improve assisted reproductive clinical outcomes.
Application of the Mathieu combined tunnel technique for repairing glans dehiscence after failed hypospadias repair
Authors: Xie Qi-Gen , Xia Kai , Li Xiang-Ping , Luo Peng , Li Zuo-Qing , Su Cheng , Deng Chun-Hua
Published: October 2021

Repairing glans dehiscence after failed hypospadias repair is challenging for pediatric surgeons. Here, we introduced and evaluated a newly modified Mathieu technique, Mathieu combined tunnel (MCT), which involves multiple custom-designed flaps for the shortage of flap source material after repeated operations; we also constructed a tunnel to avoid the glans incision that may carry new risks of dehiscence. This retrospective study included 26 patients who were consecutively admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (Guangzhou, China) for glans dehiscence repair after failed hypospadias repair from October 2014 to October 2020; sixteen patients underwent surgery using the MCT (MCT group) and ten patients underwent surgery using the tubularized incised plate (TIP) technique (TIP group). The operative time, blood loss, postoperative complications, normal urethral meatus rate, success rate, and Hypospadias Objective Penile Evaluation (HOPE) score were compared between the two groups. The MCT group achieved an overall satisfactory penile appearance and voiding function, with a higher rate of normal urethral meatus (15/16, 93.8%) and a lower rate of glans dehiscence (1/16, 6.2%), compared with the TIP group (70.0% and 30.0%, respectively). However, these differences were not statistically significant, possibly because of the limited number of patients (all P > 0.05). Mean postoperative HOPE scores were similar in the MCT group (mean ± standard deviation: 8.83 ± 0. 89) and TIP group (8.94 ± 0.57) (P > 0.05). No significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of blood loss and success rate, nor in the rates of various complications (e.g., fistula, urethral stricture, and glans dehiscence). In conclusion, the MCT technique appears to be feasible and reliable for repairing glans dehiscence after failed hypospadias repair.
Intensity-modulated radiotherapy in locally advanced head-and-neck cancers in elderly patients
Authors: Jain Neeraj , Jain Sakshi , Sharma Ramita , Sachdeva Kanchan , Kaur Amandeep , Rakesh Abhimanyu , Abrol Deepak , Sudan Meena
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Head and neck cancer is one of the most common malignancies in Indian males. Due to poor socioeconomic status, presentation is usually in advanced stage. Treatment option is limited to radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy. Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) provides highly conformal dose distributions creating nonuniform spatial intensity using different segments in the beam. Concomitant chemoradiation is highly toxic in this age group.

Material and Methods:

During 2016–2017, 44 patients with locally advanced head-and-neck cancers were treated with a curative intent with IMRT. They were in the age range of 65–75. The median age was 69 years. Thirty five were male and nine were female. Histopathologically, all had squamous cell carcinoma. Stage wise, all were T3N2 or more. The standard technique of IMRT was used with sparing of organs at risk and defining treatment volumes: gross, clinical, and planning. Patients were assessed after 4 weeks of completion of treatment for response and toxicities.

Results:

Response vise, 14 patients achieved complete response, 28 patients had partial response, and 2 had stable disease. There was no treatment-related mortality. Six patients had treatment interruptions due to toxicity. Incidence of mucositis was of Grade 1–2 in all patients. No hematological toxicity was seen. Patients having dysphagia during treatment were given nasogastric feed.
A comparative study of gemcitabine and cisplatin versus oral capecitabine alone in metastatic gallbladder cancer
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Rastogi Neeraj , Agarwal Sushma , Mishra Shagun , Kumar Shaleen , Lal Punita , Singh Shalini , Choudhary Sunil
Published: October 2021

Aims:

There is no consensus for palliative chemotherapy regimen in metastatic gallbladder cancer. We did a retrospective study to compare the treatment outcome in patients of metastatic gallbladder cancer treated with either gemcitabine + cisplatin (regimen A) or oral capecitabine (regimen B) alone.

Subjects and Methods:

A total of 67 patients between January 2015 and September 15 treated with either regimen A or regimen B were retrospectively evaluated. Statistical analysis was done in June 2019. Kaplan–Meir and Log rank test were used to compare survival between two arms.

Results:

Out of 67 patients, 31/67 (46%) received regimen A, and 36/67 (54%) received regimen B. Male to female ratio was 1:3. About 42% patients in regimen A and 20% in regimen B required palliative stenting. Median number of chemotherapy cycles was 4 in both regimen A (range 1->6) and regimen B (range 1->6). Patients receiving 3 cycles and 6 cycles of chemotherapy in regimen A and regimen B was 68% and 31% versus 70% and 63%, respectively (P = 0.86). Response assessment as any response (complete response + partial response + disease was stable) after 3 cycles and 6 cycles was 71% and 57% (P = 0.20), 44% and 39% (P = 0.29), in regimen A and B, respectively. Median survival was 23 weeks (range 2–106 weeks) in regimen A and 15 weeks (range 4–83 weeks) in regimen B (P = 0.40).

Conclusions:

The present study shows gemcitabine and cisplatin has nonsignificant better survival compared to oral capecitabine. However, oral capecitabine is more convenient and easy to administer. Studies with larger sample size are needed to further establish the standard chemotherapy guidelines.
Macular Infarction Following Intravitreal Clindamycin Injection
Authors: Hedayatfar Alireza , Zand Amin , Faghihi Hooshang , Gordiz Arzhang , Abdi Fatemeh
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

To report a case of Toxoplasma retinochoroiditis that was complicated by macular infarction following intravitreal clindamycin injection.

Methods:

A 32-year-old otherwise healthy woman with the diagnosis of reactivation of Toxoplasma retinochoroiditis in her right eye, underwent intravitreal clindamycin injection. Shortly after injection, the visual acuity deteriorated, and the fundus examination revealed an extensive area of macular necrosis accompanied by vascular occlusion.

Results:

The patient was observed. Unfortunately, the condition did not improve over time and resulted in a large area of retinal atrophy.

Conclusion:

Macular infarction should be considered a rare but disastrous complication that can result in severe, irreversible visual loss.
The Effect of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Treatment on Sleep Quality
Authors: Zarei-Ghanavati Siamak , Hassanzadeh Samira , Khorasani Abbas Azimi , Ehsaei Asieh
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

To assess the therapeutic efficacy of a combinational therapy, including conventional treatment and intense pulsed light (IPL) technique on sleep quality of patients with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

Methods:

Fifty participants with a clinical diagnosis of MGD were enrolled in this study. Participants underwent three sessions of IPL therapy. There was a 2-week interval between IPL sessions 1 and 2 and 1 month between sessions 2 and 3. Treatment was supplemented with conventional home-based therapy (including lid hygiene, warm compress, eyelid massage, and lid margin scrub) for MGD. Dry eye symptomatology, tear film, and ocular surface parameters were evaluated at baseline (day 0) and days 15, 45, and 75. Sleep quality was assessed before and after the study using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).

Results:

PSQI components improved significantly at day 75 in comparison with the baseline (all P < 0.05). Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score, noninvasive Keratograph tear break-up time (NIKBUT), fluorescein tear break-up time (FTBUT), meibomian gland expressibility, meibum quality score, and tear osmolarity improved at follow-up visits (P < 0.05). Younger patients showed more improvement in NIKBUT, sleep quality, and duration (P = 0.024, P = 0.047, and P = 0.008). Sleep latency decreased with increased NIKBUT and FTBUT and decreased OSDI score (P = 0.001, P = 0.005, and P = 0.041).

Conclusions:

The treatment of MGD is effective for improving sleep quality. Younger patients may preferentially benefit from the treatment.
Descemet's Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty and Phacoemulsification
Authors: Mahmoud Hussien Ahmed Mahmoud Ragab , Elmassry Ahmed , Ghaith Alaa Atef , Badawi Goweida Mohamed Bahgat
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

To compare the outcomes of Descemet's membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) combined with phacoemulsification versus DMEK following phacoemulsification.

Methods:

In this interventional retrospective comparative nonrandomized case series study, patients with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) with either cataract or previous cataract surgery with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation were assigned to one of the two groups according to lens status. Group 1 included patients who had cataract and FECD and would undergo triple procedure (phacoemulsification with IOL implantation and DMEK), whereas Group 2 included patients who had FECD and had phacoemulsification with IOL implantation earlier and would undergo DMEK only as a sequential procedure.

Results:

Postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in both groups at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months revealed a statistically nonsignificant difference between the two groups with mean logMAR BCVA at 6 months of 0.07 ± 0.18 and 0.07 ± 0.19 in Group 1 and Group 2, respectively (P > 0.05). The drop in endothelial cell density by the end of the 6th postoperative month was by 39.44% ±7.92 and 38.73% ±8.10 in the triple-procedure group and DMEK only group, respectively (P = 0.005). Total postoperative complications rate and the rebubbling rate were statistically similar between both groups with 13.5% and 12.5% rebubbling rate in Group 1 and Group 2, respectively (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Visual outcomes, endothelial cell loss, and rebubbling rate are comparable when DMEK is combined with phacoemulsification or when it is performed as staged procedure, without statistically significant difference in the outcomes.
Macular Optical Coherence Tomography before Cataract Surgery
Authors: Alizadeh Yousef , Akbari Mitra , Moghadam Reza Soltani , Medghalchi Abdolreza , Dourandeesh Maryam , Bromandpoor Fariborz
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

To determine the benefits of performing preoperative spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and to identify occult macular pathologies in patients scheduled for routine cataract surgery.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, macular SD-OCT scans were performed on all patients with clinically undetected macular abnormalities who were scheduled for cataract surgery. Patients with clinically evident macular abnormalities were excluded from the study. A retinal specialist reviewed all the scans. The severity of the cataract was determined using the Oxford Clinical Cataract Classification and Grading System.

Results:

Of the 598 evaluated cases, 33 patients (5.52%) had an occult macular abnormality. The most common pathology found in these patients was idiopathic epiretinal membrane, which was detected in 17 eyes (51.52%), followed by vitreomacular traction in nine eyes (27.27%), and dry age-related macular degeneration in four eyes (12.12%). Full-thickness macular holes and a lamellar macular hole were found in two patients (6.06%) and one patient (3.03%), respectively. The frequency of cortical cataracts was significantly lower in patients without macular lesions (P = 0.012) than in those with macular lesions. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age >70 years (P = 0.025 and odds ratio [OR] =11.12), smoking history (P = 0.043 and OR = 3.43), and hypertension were independently associated with occult macular lesions. The surgical plan was changed for five patients (0.83%).

Conclusions:

Macular SD-OCT can be used to detect occult macular lesions and provide useful information about a macula before cataract surgery. Although preoperative OCT found macular abnormalities in about 5% of patients with presumed normal fundus examination, it can result in changing the surgical plan in 0.83% of all patients.
Pseudotumor Cerebri Complicating Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in a Child
Authors: Divya Karuppannasamy , Indumathi Chellappan , Vikrant Kanagaraju , Padmanaban Sundaram
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

To report a case of pseudotumor cerebri (PTC) in a child associated with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), associated with presumed coronavirus disease 2019.

Methods:

A previously healthy 11-year-old female child presented with a 4-day history of fever, headache, vomiting, and loose stools. Laboratory investigations revealed neutrophilic leukocytosis, and markers of inflammation (C-reactive protein, ferritin, and interleukin-6) were significantly elevated. Pharyngeal swab for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) by polymerase chain reaction was negative while anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody was highly reactive. Ophthalmic evaluation for transient visual obscurations during hospital course revealed swelling of the optic disc in both eyes. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography and ultrasonography confirmed the ophthalmoscopic findings. There was no neurologic deficit. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and magnetic resonance venogram revealed no structural lesion. The opening pressure of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was 336 mm of water, and CSF composition was normal.

Results:

A diagnosis of PTC associated with MIS-C was made, and the child was treated with oral acetazolamide. Edema of the optic disc regressed following therapy, and the child is under follow-up.

Conclusions:

PTC can occur in association with MIS-C. Clinicians need to be aware of this potential neuro-ophthalmic complication in MIS-C. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent visual loss.
A Review of Models Suitable for Quantifying the Benefits of Power Connectivity in China’s Belt and Road Region
Authors: Gao Zhiye , Gu Xin , Qin Wenjing , Huang Baoming
Published: October 2021

This note reviews academic research models and reports the selection of an appropriate model that can quantify the benefits of regional power connectivity in the region of China’s Belt and Road Energy Partnership. A top-down macro model is more suitable for assessing the influence of power connectivity. In contract, a bottom-up model reflecting technical characteristics is recommended for measuring the impact of national investment in power facilities on energy structure transformation.
Presentación del dossier: Educación y Lazo Social
Authors: Raquel Gioffredo
Published: October 2021

La pandemia, en el mundo, desde el año 2020 ha modificado nuestras vidas y por ende a nuestra educación. Al punto tal que temporariamente, no pudimos concurrir a las instituciones educativas de modo presencial. De todos modos, dimos clases como se podía. se fue construyendo un recorrido diferente a través de las aulas virtuales, la radio, los materiales enviados por correos electrónicos, el uso del teléfono (…). Hemos aprendido. Docentes, estudiantes, familias. ¿Qué experiencias nos dejaron? Hoy contamos con nuevos saberes que nos pueden orientar para seguir construyendo caminos.
LA VIRTUALIZACIÓN DEL LAZO SOCIAL EN ESCENARIOS DE CONVERGENCIA TECNOLÓGICA Y SU IMPACTO EDUCATIVO
Authors: Ángel Emilio Riva
Published: October 2021

El presente artículo surge a partir del desarrollo y validación de un proyecto de investigación posdoctoral de corte transdisciplinario que se interesa en posibles futuros - de futurum: ‘lo que ha de ser’ - para lo humano en escenarios de aceleración del cambio tecnológico. Intenta conferir sentido a las nuevas realidades que desencadenan los procesos de convergencia tecnológica como nuevos existentes apócales intentando comprender, entre otras cuestiones, la reconfiguración del lazo social en los llamados procesos de virtualización, la emergencia de una nueva matriz epocal global y sus impactos en el ámbito de la educación.  Cuestiona las ideas ingenuas de coevolución armoniosa y neutral entre lo humano y lo técnico con las que este último pretende mostrarse como lo válido, lo necesario, lo posible, lo inevitable, a través de políticas ontológicas.  Políticas que, motorizadas por formas de pensamiento prospectivo estratégico, promovidas desde híbridos organizacionales que responden ideológicamente a posicionamientos tecnocráticos, orquestadas desde centros de poder, están destinadas a generar nuevos compromisos ontológicos a escala global que impactarán en los modos de construcción de lazos sociales a futuro. Avizora en línea generales y prospectivamente la emergencia de nuevos modos de educar y formar, en los cuales contextos y tendencias planetarias son condicionantes de las visiones de expertos y modelos.
LAZOS SOCIALES Y PROCESOS INTERSUBJETIVOS EN LA GESTIÓN DE PRÁCTICAS INCLUSIVAS
Authors: Fernanda Frencia  , Ileana Sorgentoni  , Susana Copertari
Published: October 2021

El trabajo tiene como finalidad describir la constitución de la subjetividad desde el lazo social en favor de la gestión de prácticas docentes inclusivas. Las experiencias se enmarcan en una metodología mixta por las técnicas de recolección de información: entrevistas etnográficas y encuestas; éstas oficiaron referencias de mejora de las prácticas pedagógicas en un contexto virtual. Se enmarca en el profesorado de Psicopedagogía, de la Universidad Abierta Interamericana, en el espacio de Residencia Docente, en el cual debimos acompañar, orientar y aprender junto a estudiantes de 5to año sobre cómo sortear las dificultades que fueron surgiendo en la inmediatez y, en el propio contexto virtual. Problemas de conexión, escasos recursos apropiados para la participación por parte de residentes y docentes co-formadores/as, con dificultades para incluir una educación de forma híbrida. Se tornaron para la experiencia oportunidades de aprendizajes a fin de lograr incorporar y establecer nuevos conceptos o nociones en relación al espacio de residencia, la subjetividad y el lazo social. De lo poco que conocíamos hasta el momento, en relación a la educación a distancia (EaD) y los contextos virtuales como ser: aula invertida, recursos multimedia, TIC, gamificación, sólo por nombrar algunos, se convirtieron en nuevas herramientas de análisis en las prácticas de gestión. El objetivo fue aprender a convivir con una nueva realidad planteada por la crisis pandémica mundial, la cultura digital y el avance tecnológico, desde una perspectiva reflexiva e inclusiva en la gestión de las prácticas docentes. Esta experiencia se retoma en el Proyecto de Intervención final de la Maestría en Gestión y Asesoramiento Pedagógico de la Facultad de Humanidades y Artes de la Universidad Nacional de Rosario con el aval de la Magistra Susana Copertari.