bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-sectional Study of Cholinergic Urticaria Subtypes and Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness
Authors: Katsurada Naoko , Nagano Tatsuya , Yamamoto Masatsugu , Kiriu Tatsunori , Dokuni Ryota , Kamiryo Hiroshi , Yoshioka Ai , Fukunaga Atsushi , Nishigori Chikako , Nishimura Yoshihiro , Kobayashi Kazuyuki
Published: October 2021

BackgroundCholinergic urticaria (CholU) is classified into several subtypes: 1) conventional sweat allergy-type CholU (conventional SAT-CholU), 2) CholU with palpebral angioedema (CholU-PA), 3) CholU with acquired anhidrosis and/or hypohidrosis (CholU-Anhd), and other rare type; 1) and 2) include SAT based on pathogenesis. There have been no studies on differences in the prevalence of bronchial asthma among the CholU subtypes. This is investigated in the present study by evaluating the bronchial responsiveness of each subtype.MethodsPatients 16–80 years of age with CholU were enrolled. We analyzed bronchial responsiveness, respiratory symptoms, and exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). Bronchial responsiveness was assessed using the methacholine dose indicator Dmin.ResultsA total of 11 patients with conventional SAT-CholU, 11 with CholU-PA, and 11 with CholU-Anhd were enrolled. Median log10 Dmin (interquartile range) of patients with conventional SAT-CholU, CholU-PA, and CholU-Anhd was 0.381 (−0.829, 1.079), 0.717 (0.249, 0.787), and 1.318 (0.121, 1.699), respectively (p=0.516). Dmin was lower in patients with SAT (conventional SAT-CholU and CholU-PA) than in those with CholU-Anhd, although the differences among the 3 types were not significant. Respiratory symptoms evaluated using the International Primary Care Airways Group questionnaire were less frequently observed in CholU-Anhd (0 [0, 1]) than in conventional SAT-CholU (1 [0–2]) or CholU-PA (1 [1–3]) (p=0.049). FeNO of patients with conventional SAT-CholU, CholU-PA, and CholU-Anhd was 23 (18.5, 65.0), 39 (32.0, 59.5), and 25 (19.0, 33.0) ppb, respectively (p=0.237). One of 11 conventional SAT-CholU patients (9.1%) and 6 of 11 CholU-PA patients (54.5%) required treatment for bronchial asthma.ConclusionsLog Dmin tended to be lower in patients with SAT-CholU than in those with CholU-Anhd. Distinguishing between CholU subtypes may reveal different degrees of bronchial responsiveness based on a distinct pathogenesis.Trial registration numberUMIN 000025669; https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000027550
Multimessenger approaches to exploring dense matter in neutron stars
Authors:   , Weih Lukas
Published: October 2021

High-energy astrophysics plays an increasingly important role in the understanding of our universe. On one hand, this is due to ground-breaking observations, like the gravitational-wave detections of the LIGO and Virgo network or the black-hole shadow observations of the EHT collaboration. On the other hand, the field of numerical relativity has reached a level of sophistication that allows for realistic simulations that include all four fundamental forces of nature. A prime example of how observations and theory complement each other can be seen in the studies following GW170817, the first detection of gravitational waves from a binary neutron-star merger. The same detection is also the chronological starting point of this Thesis. The plethora of information and constraints on nuclear physics derived from GW170817 in conjunction with theoretical computations will be presented in the first part of this Thesis. The second part goes beyond this detection and prepares for future observations when also the high-frequency postmerger signal will become detectable. Specifically, signatures of a quark-hadron phase transition are discussed and the specific case of a delayed phase transition is analyzed in detail. Finally, the third part of this Thesis focuses on the inclusion of radiative transport in numerical astrophysics. In the context of binary neutron-star mergers, radiation in the form of neutrinos is crucial for realistic long-term simulations. Two methods are introduced for treating radiation: the approximate state-of-the-art two-moment method (M1) and the recently developed radiative Lattice-Boltzmann method. The latter promises to be more accurate than M1 at a comparable computational cost. Given that most methods for radiative transport or either inaccurate or unfeasible, the derivation of this new method represents a novel and possibly paradigm-changing contribution to an accurate inclusion of radiation in numerical astrophysics.
Characterisation and Pathogenicity of Aspergillus tamarii Causing Banana Fruit Rot
Authors: Zakaria Latiffah , Chai Yan Yan , Mohd Masratul Hawa , Kamaruddin Nur Amalina , Azuddin Nurul Farizah
Published: October 2021

Banana fruit rot is a common postharvest disease of the banana fruit. The appearance of rot symptoms on the surface of the fruits reduces the quality and marketability of banana. From rot lesions on banana fruits, three Aspergillus isolates were isolated. Based on morphological characteristics and sequences of Internal Transcribed Spacer, β-tubulin and calmodulin, the isolates were identified as A. tamarii. Pathogenicity tests of the isolates, conducted using mycelial plugs with wounded and unwounded treatments, showed A. tamarii as the pathogen of banana fruit rot. Rot symptoms were highly severe on wounded banana fruits compared to unwounded fruits, and therefore, wounded banana fruits are more susceptible to A. tamarii infection. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of A. tamarii as a causal pathogen of banana fruit rot. This study indicated A. tamarii is one of postharvest rot pathogens of banana.
The effect of contact grouting on support load
Authors: Aleksandr Liskovets , Viktor Tatsienko , Viacheslav Gogolin
Published: October 2021

Introduction. The paper analyzes contemporary methods of frame support design in permanent workings and reveals that contact grouting has received little attention. Contact grouting makes the tight contact between the hardened cement grout and the surrounding rock possible, whereas it is impossible when applying concrete lagging. The paper employs analytical method of arch support, grouting layer, and the surrounding rock calculation considering their softening. Analytical formulae determining support load has been obtained. The formulae take into account strain and strength characteristics of the surrounding rock, hardened cement grout, and support. Support load was calculated under various values of the grouting layer thickness and linear strain modulus and the depth of mining. The dependencies between the support load and the indicated parameters have been obtained, which makes it possible to select the cement grout composition for various mining and geological conditions. Research objective is to determine the effect produced by grouting layer thickness and strain characteristics on arch support load value in order to check its strength in various mining and geological conditions. Methods of research are built upon the physically based analytical methods of geomechanics to solve the problem of interaction between the support, grouting layer, and surrounding rock mass. Results. The results of arched support load calculation are presented for various values of grouting layer thickness, its strain characteristics, and depth of mining. Conclusions. The presence of the grouting layer in the void behind the support has a significant effect on the methods of arch support design. The developed methods take account of the fact that a layer of soft rock develops in the rock mass between the grouting layer and undisturbed rock. When the rock is being broken, its volume in this layer increases, which, in its turn, results in support load transfer growth through the grouting layer. It has been determined that the increase in the hardened cement grout strain and grouting layer thickness reduces support load.
Alkalmazkodási stratégiák a távolléti oktatás során hallgatói, oktatói és intézményi szinten
Authors: Horváth László , Czirfusz Dóra , Misley Helga , N. Tóth Ágnes
Published: October 2021

A magyar felsőoktatás (a világ számos országához hasonlóan) 2020 márciusában a koronavírus kapcsán kihirdetett veszélyhelyzet miatt kényszerű távolléti oktatásra állt át. Az ilyen krízishelyzetekre általában az erőforrások szűkössége jellemző, ahol az innovációelmélet alapján a takarékos (frugal), „barkácsolásra” (bricolage) építő, alulról szerveződő innovációk kerülnek előtérbe. Kutatásunk célja, hogy egy felsőoktatási kar oktatói és hallgatói nézőpontjainak feltárásával mutassa be, hogyan küzdöttek meg az érintettek a kialakuló helyzettel, milyen – elsősorban pedagógiai szempontból releváns – alkalmazkodási stratégiákat alakítottak ki és alkalmaztak. Az eredmények alapján kiemelhető, hogy a szűkebb tanulás-tanítási perspektíván túl fontos figyelembe venni a hallgatók élethelyzetében bekövetkező változásokat (például lakhatás, diákmunka), az oktatók esetében pedig általánosan a munkavégzéshez kötődő változásokat (például adminisztráció). A tanulás-tanítás területén változatos alkalmazkodási stratégiákat észlelhetünk, amelyben fontos szempontnak bizonyul a tanulóközpontú szemlélet és az oktatók digitális kompetenciája. Az általános konzekvenciákon túl a tanulmány a kari esetet felhasználva körüljárja az átállás tapasztalatait, erősségeit és gyengeségeit, bemutatva azt a vezetői és intézményi támogatási környezetet, amelyben a távolléti oktatásra történő átállás megvalósult.
Arctalanság a távolléti felsőoktatásban
Authors: Kálmán Orsolya , Eszes Fruzsina , Kardos Dorottya , Lénárd Sándor , Pálvölgyi Lajos , Szivák Judit
Published: October 2021

Ebben a lapszámban két tanulmány foglalkozik a távolléti oktatás kapcsán a felsőoktatásban felmerült dilemmákkal. Jelen írás a veszélyhelyzeti oktatás első időszakának oktatói és hallgatói dilemmáit, kritikus eseményeit értelmezi. A kutatás fókuszában az állt, hogy a feltárt problémák a tanulás és tanítás milyen területeit érintették, miben hasonlóak és miben térnek el ezek az oktatói és hallgatói kritikus események, dilemmák? A 2020 tavaszán kezdett kvalitatív longitudinális, három adatfelvételből álló vizsgálatban az ELTE 18 oktatója és 44 hallgatója vett részt, akikkel kvalitatív tematikus online interjúk készültek. A tematikus tartalomelemzésre építve öt komplex pedagógiai dilemma került meghatározásra, amit ebben a tanulmányban részletesebben is bemutatunk: (1) az arctalanság, (2) a felelősségvállalás, (3) a túlterheltség, (4) a motivációvesztés és (5) az online tanítás eredményessége, avagy annak kérdése, hogy a távolléti oktatás előrelépés-e vagy sem.
A partnerség lehetőségei
Authors: Kálmán Orsolya , Eszes Fruzsina , Kardos Dorottya , Lénárd Sándor , Pálvölgyi Lajos , Szivák Judit
Published: October 2021

A tanulmányunkban a távolléti felsőoktatás oktatói és hallgatói tapasztalatainak értelmezésére vállalkozunk. Nem elsősorban az új gyakorlatokat helyezzük középpontba, hanem az oktatók és hallgatók tanításhoz és tanuláshoz kapcsolódó dilemmáit, az ehhez kötődő reflexiókat, az értelmezésekben megmutatkozó hasonló és eltérő irányokat. Kvalitatív longitudinális kutatásunk a távolléti felsőoktatás első időszakában kezdődött; a második szakaszban az oktatók és a hallgatók az akkor összegyűjtött dilemmákra adtak reflexiókat: az arctalanság, felelősségvállalás, motivációvesztés, túlterheltség és az előrelépés vagy visszalépés dilemmáira. E reflexiók elemzése azt mutatja, hogy a hallgatókkal való partneri viszony szerepel ugyan a cselekvési lehetőségek között, de a dilemmák értelmezésében ez kevéssé átgondolt, ott inkább az oktatói és hallgatói szerep közti távolság erősödik fel.
A tanulói jóllét és a pedagógus/nők/ foglalkozási és pszichológiai jóllétének kapcsolódásai
Authors: Borbáth Katalin , Horváth H. Attila
Published: October 2021

Az iskolai tanulás teljesen új megközelítését adja az OECD „Iránytű a tanuláshoz” című anyaga azzal, hogy célként a well-being, a jóllét elérését jelöli meg. Úgy látják a szerzők, hogy a jövő komplex és bizonytalan világának ismeretlen feltételrendszeréhez történő alkalmazkodáshoz az úgynevezett transzformatív kompetenciákra van szükség, amelynek kialakítása és működtetése vezet a well-being eléréséhez. Az aktív tanulás folyamatában jelentős funkciót tulajdonítanak a pedagógusoknak a nemzetközi oktatáspolitikai vizsgálatok alapján, egyúttal jelzik, hogy milyen változásokra van szükség a pedagógusszerepben. Ennek a megváltozott pedagógusszerepnek a megvalósításában meghatározó tényező a pedagógusok jólléte. Ennek bizonyításául a pedagógusnők – hiszen ők vannak többségben a pályán – foglalkozási és pszichológiai jóllétének vizsgálatairól hozunk példákat azt követően, hogy számos jóllét-értelmezést vázolunk fel. Az oktatásügy előtt álló feladat megoldásához érdemes áttekinteni, hogy milyen értelmezései, dimenziói vannak a jóllétnek; hogyan lehet ezeket párbeszédbe állítani, a kutatási eredményeket minél jobban felhasználni a fogalom pontos és gazdag értelmezéséhez úgy, hogy az a mindennapi tevékenységek számára operacionalizálható legyen. Ehhez mutatunk be különböző megközelítéseket. Hangsúlyozzuk, hogy a pedagógusnők jólléte szoros kapcsolatot mutat a tanulók jóllétével, tehát a pedagógusok foglalkozási és pszichológiai jóllétének támogatása a minőségi tanulás-tanítás folyamatához, a 2030-ra kitűzött cél eléréséhez elengedhetetlen.
Consolidated Budgets of the Subjects of the Russian Federation in the First Half of 2021: is the Crisis Ended?
Authors: Lykova L V.
Published: October 2021

In the first half of 2021, positive trends in the economy led to a pronounced increase in revenues of the consolidated budgets of RF subjects. Corporate income tax and personal income tax receipts increased most significantly. In most subjects of the Russian Federation, this year’s revenue growth has compensated for last year’s drop, but in a number of regions whose economies have a raw material orientation, the 2019 pre-crisis year indicators have not yet been exceeded. The total amount of the federal transfers remained practically at the level of 2020. At the same time, the structure of this aid has changed significantly. Unconditional grants receipts have decreased and subsidy receipts have increased significantly. The growth of expenditures of sub-federal budgets lags behind the dynamics of revenues, ensuring a pronounced budget surplus. The main areas of spending remain social policy, education and the national economy. Federal subsidies account for a significant portion of the increase in spending on social policy. The high growth rate of expenditures on the national economy is largely ensured by one subject of the Russian Federation Moscow. Health care spending, which grew ahead of schedule in 2020, has declined this year, but remained above precrisis 2019 levels. While in general all subjects of the Russian Federation executed their consolidated budgets in the first half of the year with a surplus, in a number of regions there is a budget deficit. In several regions, the surplus values turned out to be very significant due to the growth of income, which was not predicted.
Debt Burden of the Subjects of the Russian Federation
Authors: Bukina I. S.
Published: October 2021

The growth of regional debts produces risks both at the regional level and in the sphere of intergovernmental relations. The article shows that with a low debt burden at a long-term level, the subjects of the Russian Federation are highly differentiated by the level of debt, and even with a decrease in overall debt, a variation of debt load is growing. On the basis of cluster analysis, four groups of the subjects of the Russian Federation were allocated, depending on the variation of the debt burden and the share of social spending in total regional expenditures. It is concluded that the level of debt burden and its dynamics are explained both by the socio-economic factors for the regional development and the quality of budget management in any subject of the Russian Federation. Accordingly, the procedure for the distribution of intergovernmental transfers and budgetary rules should be agreed with the accounting of objective relationships and institutional effects.
Far East Location in the Prospective Development Model of the Russian Federation
Authors: Stepanov N. S. , Sokolovskaya E. A.
Published: October 2021

The need to transform economic and social policies into more effective policies requires the special attention of the authorities and the expert community to the Far East as a region with significant potential for economic growth. The article, through the prism of historical events, examines the place of the Far East in the world economy within the framework of the current system of international political, foreign trade and financial relations against the background of a decrease in the level of confidence in these areas, which largely depends on excessive regulation of the most significant regional entities and tightening of various kinds of sanctions by the most developed states. The reason for the turn of Russia to the east is justified. Historical milestones of the development and development of the Far East over a 300-year period and its potential, place in the economic activity of the Russian Federation and its foreign economic relations are analyzed in detail. Examples are given to a certain extent confirming the emerging transition from a purely subsidized policy of past decades to an investment strategy for the future development of the region. Optimal forms and mechanisms of interaction aimed at improving the investment climate, developing transport, energy, industrial and tourism infrastructure, as well as ensuring a high level of environmental safety of the region are identified.
Strategic Planning of the Development of Manufacturing Industries in the Russian Federation
Authors: Sibirskaya E. V. , Oveshnikova L. V. , Shakirova D. F.
Published: October 2021

Strategic planning for the development of manufacturing industries in the Russian Federation should be based on the results of a comprehensive analysis of the existing level of industrial development of the regional and national economy, prospects and mechanisms for the development of industrial potential, including the definition of the industry specifics of the subjects of the Russian Federation, planned statistical indicators in terms of the growth of high-tech products and taking into account the implementation of import substitution programs. The article considers the current state of strategic planning in the practice of manufacturing industries of the Russian Federation. The review of the main directions of the state industrial policy in relation to manufacturing industries in the field of strategic planning is given, as well as the key challenges and opportunities for the development of this activity in Russia are considered, the state of the manufacturing industry at the national level is assessed on the basis of statistical reports. The proposals for expanding the presence of manufacturing products on the Russian market under import substitution programs are considered and the prospects and necessary conditions for the development of manufacturing industries in the Russian Federation until 2024 and for the period up to 2035 are predicted.
Therapeutic laser with or without andiroba oil in treating cutaneous wounds by second intention in Wistar rats
Authors: Oliveira Romulo Silva de , Fernandes Mayara Marques Pereira , Mesquita Millena do Nascimento , Cruz Ana Caroline Lima da , Pelizzari Charles , Neves Eduardo Cavalcante das , Peruquetti Rui Carlos , Berón Marina Maurente , Viott Aline de Marco , Souza Soraia Figueiredo de
Published: October 2021

This study’s objective was to evaluate the efficacy of treating cutaneous wounds in Wistar rats using a therapeutic laser alone or in combination with topical application of andiroba oil. Twenty-four Wistar rats were distributed into three groups (T4, T7, and T14) of eight animals. To prepare the wounds, a total of four skin fragments per animal were removed using an 8-mm cutaneous biopsy punch. Each animal was inflicted with four surgical wounds, and each wound was subjected to one treatment. The treatments were as follows: saline solution (control, Cn); laser therapy (L), using a 660-nm laser wavelength and 10-J/cm² energy density; fresh andiroba oil (An); laser therapy followed by topical andiroba oil administration (LAn). All treatments in all animals were conducted for 4- (T4), 7- (T7), and 14- (T14) day periods. Edema and purulent secretion were observed in three animals in the An group, and the appearance of an exuberant crust was also observed in one animal from the same group. The LAn group presented the worst wound healing rate and contraction velocity (p < 0.05). Microscopically, there was no difference between groups regarding the presence of inflammation, necrosis, formation of granulation tissue, fibroplasia, and the presence of types 1 and 3 collagen at different treatment times. It was concluded that laser treatment of cutaneous wounds in conjunction with andiroba oil application did not present benefits in reference to the 0.9% NaCl.
Advanced Copper and Copper Alternatives for Crop Protection -
A Mini-Review
Authors: Pereira Jorge , King Alex , Campos Maria Gabriela Nogueira , Santra Swadeshmukul
Published: October 2021

Copper (Cu) has been used in agriculture for centuries as a standard bactericide/fungicide
due to its low cost, superior disease control efficacy, and relatively low toxicity to humans. However,
the extensive use of copper as a pesticide has caused the development of Cu-tolerant microorganisms
as well as negative environmental impacts due to the accumulation of copper in soil and bodies of
water. Therefore, there is a strong demand for advanced Cu products and alternatives to minimize the
Cu footprint in the environment. This minireview will cover the limitations of Cu usage and the
strategies being investigated to develop advanced Cu materials and alternatives for crop protection
using nanotechnology.
Introduction
Authors: Das R.
Published: October 2021

In this chapter, a summary of different synthetic polymers-based water/gas separation techniques is given. It includes the separation of solutes from wastewater and also the purification of gases from various cocktails. Moreover, a summary of individual chapters of this book entitled ‘Polymeric Membranes for Water Purification and Gas Separation’ is shown in the conclusion section.
Commonly used Polymers for Separation Science
Authors: Sengupta S.
Published: October 2021

Many synthetic and organic (bio-based) polymers have been used for membrane fabrications. In this chapter, we discuss the structure and properties of some commonly used polymers, which have been used for water purification and gas separation applications. To supplement that, we discuss some characterization tools and membrane module testing conditions for performance checks.
Foreign Body Extraction of a Push-pin nail with Granulation Tissue Complication on a Thirteen Years Old Male
Authors: Octavia Umi fatma , Putra Ngakan Putu Parsama
Published: October 2021

Background : Foreign body aspiration is common in children (80% in children under 5 years old) and elderly. The ratio in men is higher than in women. Flexible bronchoscopy is often used as a primary procedure in such cases because of its high sensitivity and specificity. However, in some cases, rigid bronchoscopy might be superior. This is a case report about a patient who came with complaints of bloody cough and chest pain after the ingestion of a push-pin nail. The patient underwent both bronchoscopic procedures.Case : A 13-year-old male presented with complaints of sudden bloody coughing accompanied by chest pain in the middle area. Physical examinations were unremarkable, but images of spikes suggestive of a foreign object on the left hilus were found at the chest x-ray. A flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed immediately. A push-pin nail, located the left main bronchus with a sharp tip embedded in the mucosa and covered by granulation tissue, was identified. Evacuation attempts were unsuccessful. Rigid bronchoscopy was then performed and evacuation was carried out successfully. The patient was then discharged after forty-eight hours of close monitoring.Conclusion: There are two types of bronchoscopy, flexible and rigid. Both have their respective advantages in the handling of patients with foreign bodies. Â Acquiring skills in operating both types of bronchoscopy are important for a bronchologist.Keywords: Foreign body, Aspiration, Granulation tissue, Bronchoscopy
MODEL OF HUMAN METABOLIC AGE
Authors: Pisaruk Anatoliy , Shatilo Valerii , Shchehlova Ivanna , Naskalova Svitlana , Mechova Ludmila
Published: October 2021

With aging, regular changes develop in metabolism, first of all, these are changes in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. With accelerated aging, metabolic disorders are more expressed, which leads to the development of metabolic syndrome. The purpose of the work was to develop a method for calculating metabolic age using available clinical tests and to assess the rate of metabolic aging in people with metabolic syndrome. Materials and methods. The study involved 283 apparently healthy people aged 20 to 80 years and 82 people with metabolic syndrome. Anthropometric parameters and biochemical tests were measured for all people included in the study. The formula for calculating metabolic age was obtained by the method of stepwise multiple regression.Results. The calculation of the metabolic age in healthy people according to the formula we obtained showed that the average absolute error is 6.01 years. In 20.5% of people with metabolic syndrome, metabolic age exceeds chronological age by more than 10 years. At the same time, in the group of healthy people, the share of such people was only 4.2%. Conclusions. The method we have developed for assessing the rate of metabolic aging has a sufficiently high accuracy and can be used to assess the risk of developing metabolic syndrome and other agerelated pathology.
FEATURES OF INSULIN RESISTANCE ASSESSMENT IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS WITH HYPERURICEMIA
Authors: Cherniaieva Anna
Published: October 2021

Topicality. The link between hyperuricemia (HUA) and insulin resistance (IR) has been established in many studies, but the traditional «insulin» indices used to assess the severity of IR, although there are the most informative, sensitive and specific, have not been widely used in clinical practice. The aim of the research is to evaluate the possibility to use calculated «non-insulin» indices in clinical practice to assess IR in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) with HUA. Materials and methods. We examined 395 patients with type 2 diabetes (231 women and 164 men) aged 39 to 81 years, the average — (54.6 ± 12.9) years, who received oral hypoglycemic therapy. Anthropometric indicators were determined — waist circumference (WC) and body mass index (BMI). The author determined the level of fasting blood glucose in capillary blood by glucose oxidase method, the concentration of uric acid (SUA) in the serum, the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG) — by colorimetric method; immunoreactive insulin — by immunochemiluminescent method. The IR severity was assessed by indices HOMA-IR, QUICKI, Caro, visceral obesity index (AVI), triglyceride-glucose index (TyG-index), TyG-BMI index, TyG-WC index, metabolic index (MI) and the ratio of TG/cholesterol-HDL (TG/HDL-C-ratio). Statistical analysis of the obtained data was performed using the software package «Statgraphics Plus for Windows 10.0». Results. Between groups of patients with T2DM on the concentration of SUA in the blood the author found significant differences in WC, BMI and TG level, which affected the calculated «non-insulin» indices: AVI (P = 0.026), TyG-index (P = 0.04), TyG-BMI-index (P = 0.001), TyG-WC index (P = 0.037) and MI (P = 0.03). A positive correlation between HOMA-IR and MI (rs = 0.44, P = 0.0006) and AVI (rs = 0.28, P = 0.01) was established;  QUICKI with MI (rs = 0.32, P = 0.012), TyG-index (rs = 0.29, P = 0.02), TyG-BMI index (rs = 0.25, P = 0.04), TyG-WC index (rs = 0.34, P = 0.004) and AVI (rs = 0.31, P = 0.01). It has been determined that the Caro index at the trend level positively correlates with the TyG-index (rs = 0.23, P = 0.065). Among the studied calculated «non-insulin» indices in patients with T2DM with the concentration of SUA in the blood are significantly associated with TyG-index (rs = 0.19; P = 0.0034), TyG-BMI index (rs = 0.43; P = 0.0001), TyG-WC index (rs = 0.44; P = 0.00001), MI (rs = -0.17; P = 0.012) and TG/HDL-C-ratio (rs = 0.15); P = 0.011). Conclusions. the author established a positive correlation between HOMA-IR and MI and AVI in patients with T2DM with SUA; QUICKI with MI, TyG-index, TyG-BMI-index, TyG-WC-index and AVI. Among the calculated «non-insulin» IR indices with the concentration of SUA in patients with T2DM are significantly associated with TyG-index, TyG-BMI-index, TyG-WC-index, MI and TyG/HS-HDL. To adequately assess the severity of IR in patients with T2DM with HUA, it is advisable to use TyG-index, TyG-BMI-index, TyG-WC-index, MI and TG/HS-HDL.
INTEGRATIVE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM ACTIVITY OF RATS IN GERONTOGENESIS UNDER EXPERIMENTAL HYPERGLYCEMIA
Authors: Basysta Katerina , Rodinskiy Alexander , Guz Ludmila
Published: October 2021

Diabetes mellitus has a major impact on the brain and its cognitive function. The pathogenesis of these disorders is still not well understood. Therefore, it is necessary to find ways of solving these manifestations in hyperglycemia in order to prevent the risk of complications that will lead to a worsening of living conditions.

 In the experiment, the state of conditioned-reflex and orientation-research activity of rats of different ages (middle-aged rats and old rats) in conditions of experimental hyperglycemia was found. The animals were kept under standard vivarium conditions. Experimental hyperglycemia was modeled by intraperitoneal solution injection of alloxan monohydrate (120 mg/kg body weight, Sigma). For 10 days, blood glucose was determined using a portable glucometer «Bionime». On day 10, those animals were selected that had a blood glucose value above 28 mmol/L. The analysis of orientation-research and emotional activity was carried out using the «Open Field» technique. The number of squares crossed, the number of lifts on the hind legs, the number of peeking into the burrows, grooming, and the number of bowel movements were recorded. The conditioned passive avoidance technique was used to study the stable and labile phases of memory. In both age groups, the indicators of orientation-research activity differed significantly (p < 0.05). The decrease in the number of squares crossed, the number of racks up and the study of minks was more pronounced in middle-aged animals with diabetes mellitus. The increase in the number of amnesiac animals was also more pronounced in the middle-aged rats of the research group. A decrease in the latency period was noted in both age groups. Thus, it was found that experimental hyperglycemia had pronounced consequences for the cognitive function of animals, respectively, diabetes mellitus has a negative effect on the brain.
Male fertility: a review of the publications from April – June 2021
Authors: Rogozin D. S.
Published: October 2021

The article provides an overview of the most significant publications on the topic of male infertility. The main selection criteria were considered the practical significance of the article, as well as the impact factor of the journal in which it was published, according to the SCImago Journal Rank (SJR). As a result, a list of 10 works published in the II quarter (April – June) of 2021 was formed. The review includes articles on the following issues: the effectiveness of repeated micro-TESE in non-obstructive azoospermia, the role of COVID-19 in male fertility, the effect of testosterone therapy on spermatogenesis, testicular microlithiasis, electroejaculation as a method of obtaining spermatozoa, harm from carrying cell phones near the genitals, prediction of the effectiveness of intrauterine insemination, the effect of advanced paternal age on sperm aneuploidy, and the importance of the microbiome for male fertility.
The three-dimensional reconstruction of the dilated renal pelvicalyceal system by non-enhanced computed tomography
Authors: Guliev B. G. , Komyakov B. K. , Talyshinskiy A. E.
Published: October 2021

Introduction. The three-dimensional reconstruction of the renal pelvicalyceal system (PCS) is possible when performing enhanced computed tomography (CT). However, the use of a contrast agent has its limitations associated with the presence of allergy and chronic kidney disease.

Purpose of the study. To describe the method of semi-autonomous three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of the PCS based on non-enhanced CT images of patients with upper urinary tract obstruction.

Materials and methods. Five patients diagnosed with renal colic were recruited from April-May 2021. All patients underwent CT-urography after informed consent. Medical Imaging Interaction Toolkit program (MITK) expanded with explainable update were used for 3D-reconstruction of PCS via excretory and native phases. To assess the accuracy of the latter, both contrast and non-contrast models were compared regarding their surface area. Also, the PCS of one patient was used to reconstruct virtual endoscopic views based on enhanced and non-enhanced models. Five urologists estimated their similarity and potential use of non-enhanced models for the interventional planning via a Likert scale questionnaire. The resulting models were also analyzed by programmer-engineers to test their suitability for 3D-printing.

Results. The average surface area of enhanced and non-enhanced models was 3291 mm2 and 2879 mm2, respectively. Obtained models were suitable for their intraluminal reconstruction and potential 3D-printing. Analyzed properties of non-enhanced models were estimated at 4.5 out of 5.0.

Conclusion. The described semi-autonomous reconstruction of the renal PCS based on non-enhanced CT images allows for a short time to reconstruct its 3D-view in patients with the upper urinary tract obstruction.
Types of the prostate blood supply during super-selective embolization of prostatic arteries
Authors: Kapranov S. A. , Zlatovratskiy A. G. , Karpov V. K. , Shaparov B. M. , Kamalov A. A.
Published: October 2021

Introduction. Pelvic arteries have various anatomy and anastomoses with other branches of the internal iliac artery (IIA). This explains the technical complexity of identification and catheterization of prostatic arteries (PA), as well as the possibility of complications associated with non-target embolization of prostatic artery anastomoses.

Purpose of the study. To analyze the most common variants of prostate blood supply and evaluate the effectiveness of methods for identifying prostatic arteries.

Materials and methods. The study included 168 patients treated from 2013 to 2021. For catheterization of the prostatic arteries, 4 – 5 Fr microconductors and 2 – 2.8 Fr microcatheters were used. For embolization, hydrogel microspheres with a diameter of 100 – 300 µm and 300 – 500 µm were used, as well as PVA microparticles with a diameter of 100 – 500 µm. Preoperatively multi-sliced computed tomography (MSCT) angiography of the pelvic organs was performed to determine the type of prostatic angioarchitectonics.

Results. The use of preoperative MSCT angiography in combination with intraoperative digital subtraction angiography made it possible to determine the variations of prostatic artery divergence and identify their anastomoses in 100% of patients (336 pelvic sides). One prostatic artery was detected in 91.4% (307) of the pelvic sides. two independent pAs in 8.6% (29) of cases. Symmetrical anatomy of the prostatic arteries on both sides was revealed in 14.3% (24) patients, the remaining 85.7% (144) patients showed asymmetry on both sides. The absence of prostatic arteries anastomoses was detected in 75.5% (254) of the pelvic sides, and in 24.4% (82) of the pelvic sides, anastomoses were detected. Interlobar intraprostatic anastomoses were found in 10.1% (34) of the pelvic sides, communication with a. dorsalis penis was detected in 8% (27) of cases, with rectal arteries in 5.3% (18) of the pelvic sides and with urinary bladder arteries in 3.6% (12) of cases. Based on the analysis of the small pelvis angioarchitectonics in 168 patients, an anatomical classification of the prostatic arteries anatomy was proposed.

Conclusion. Super-selective embolization of the prostatic arteries is a contemporary minimally invasive method of prostatic hyperplasia treatment with a high safety profile. The pelvic arteries have extremely various anatomy, as well as anastomoses with other branches of the internal iliac artery, which complicates the implementation of super-selective embolization of prostatic arteries. The combination of preoperative MSCT and intraoperative digital subtraction angiography makes it possible to identify the prostatic artery and its anastomoses in most cases.
The changes of the tubular epithelium phenotype in the contralateral kidney nephrons while developing unilateral ureteral obstruction: an experimental study
Authors: Akimenko M. A. , Voronova O. V. , Kolmakova T. S.
Published: October 2021

Introduction. The high prevalence of renal diseases caused by urinary tract obstruction led to the need for experimental research of compensatory and pathological processes with kidney injury. It is also of relevance to study key mechanisms providing a compensatory function of the contralateral kidney for early diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of obstructive renal diseases.

Purpose of the study. To examine epithelial nephron cells phenotype dynamics changes in contralateral kidney using unilateral ureteral obstruction experimental model.

Materials and methods. Model of unilateral ureteral obstruction was established using adult rabbits. The studies were carried out on days 7, 14 and 21 of complete obstruction of the left ureter. Immunophenotyping was performed on contralateral kidney tissue samples using epithelial (cytokeratin 7, E-cadherin) and mesenchymal (vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin) markers.

Results. The contralateral kidney under additional load can maintain the morphological and functional characteristics of the nephron for a long time. The first transmogrify signs in the nephron epithelium phenotype were detected by day 21 as the diffuse appearance of mesenchymal marker vimentin with unaltered visualization of epithelial phenotype markers.

Conclusion. The results obtained allow us to assume that the compensatory reserve of the contralateral kidney is gradually decreasing when the duration of the obstruction increases. Thus, the likelihood of developing negative disorders increases.
Assessment of the infectious factor in transurethral surgery of benign prostate hyperplasia
Authors: Kogan M. I. , Naboka Yu. L. , Ivanov S. N.
Published: October 2021

Performing surgical interventions for benign prostate hyperplasia against the background of chronic urinary tract infection or prostatitis can adversely affect the course of the postoperative period and mediate the development of complications. Therefore, it is important to understand the pre- and postoperative bacterial status of the patients in various endourological surgical techniques and its relationship with possible infectious complications. This review raises the problem of insufficient knowledge regarding the clinical structure of infections during transurethral surgery, assessment of their relationship with the course of the underlying pathology and the severity of symptoms.
Mapping Information Needs of Patients With Sexually Transmitted Infections Using Web-Based Data Sources: Grounded Theory Investigation
Authors: Mulgund Pavankumar , Sharman Raj , Purao Sandeep , Thimmanayakanapalya Sagarika Suresh , Winkelstein Peter
Published: October 2021

Background

According to the World health organization (WHO), more than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired each day across the world. The incidence rates of STIs in the United States are at a record high for the fourth consecutive year. Owing to the stigma associated with the incidence of STI, there is a general reluctance to seek information in person. Instead, web-based information sources remain the primary avenues of information-seeking. However, these sources are designed without a comprehensive understanding of the information needs of individuals who have contracted STIs.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the information needs of individuals who have or suspect they have contracted an STI. A better understanding of their information needs can drive the design of more effective digital interventions.

Methods

This is a qualitative and analytical study of 549 transcripts (consisting of queries posted over the last 10 years) from web-based forums of the American Sexual Health Association (ASHA), which allows patients, volunteers, and health care providers connect anonymously. The analysis follows a grounded theory (GT) approach with multiple coding stages to uncover categories and themes.

Results

Three categories of information needs emerged. The first two, clinical and logistical, are similar to other contexts. However, our analysis shows that there is a significant need for the last category—psychosocial information. Approximately 59% of instances are linked to concerns such as confusion, discretion, remorse, and others. These needs vary across the stages of a patient’s journey from symptom manifestation to treatment maintenance.

Conclusions

Responding to the needs of individuals who have or suspect they have contracted an STI requires compassionate and personalized responses (beyond factual clinical and logistical information). Web-based forums provide anonymity but do not adequately incorporate mechanisms, practices, or incentives to respond to diverse psychosocial concerns. Innovative approaches to add such support can make the digital interventions more effective for this group of individuals.
eHealth Literacy Instruments: Systematic Review of Measurement Properties
Authors: Lee Jiyeon , Lee Eun-Hyun , Chae Duckhee
Published: October 2021

Background

The internet is now a major source of health information. With the growth of internet users, eHealth literacy has emerged as a new concept for digital health care. Therefore, health professionals need to consider the eHealth literacy of consumers when providing care utilizing digital health technologies.

Objective

This study aimed to identify currently available eHealth literacy instruments and evaluate their measurement properties to provide robust evidence to researchers and clinicians who are selecting an eHealth literacy instrument.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of self-reported eHealth literacy instruments by applying the updated COSMIN (COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments) methodology.

Results

This study included 7 instruments from 41 articles describing 57 psychometric studies, as identified in 4 databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and PsycInfo). No eHealth literacy instrument provided evidence for all measurement properties. The eHealth literacy scale (eHEALS) was originally developed with a single-factor structure under the definition of eHealth literacy before the rise of social media and the mobile web. That instrument was evaluated in 18 different languages and 26 countries, involving diverse populations. However, various other factor structures were exhibited: 7 types of two-factor structures, 3 types of three-factor structures, and 1 bifactor structure. The transactional eHealth literacy instrument (TeHLI) was developed to reflect the broader concept of eHealth literacy and was demonstrated to have a sufficient low-quality and very low-quality evidence for content validity (relevance, comprehensiveness, and comprehensibility) and sufficient high-quality evidence for structural validity and internal consistency; however, that instrument has rarely been evaluated.

Conclusions

The eHealth literacy scale was the most frequently investigated instrument. However, it is strongly recommended that the instrument's content be updated to reflect recent advancements in digital health technologies. In addition, the transactional eHealth literacy instrument needs improvements in content validity and further psychometric studies to increase the credibility of its synthesized evidence.
Ransomware attacks in healthcare: vulnerabilities and technical countermeasures (Preprint)
Authors: Kwon Hyeokchan , Chung Byungho
Published: October 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

Ransomware attacks, such as Conti, Ryuk, Petya, and Sodinokibi, that target medical institutions are increasing rapidly. In 2020, in the United States., ransomware attacks affected over 600 separate clinics, hospitals, and organizations, and more than 18 million patient records. The cost of these attacks is estimated to be almost $21 billion USD [1]. The first death related to ransomware attacks was reported by the University Hospital of Düsseldorf in Germany in 2020. The aim of this literature is to study vulnerabilities of cybersecurity in medical institutions, characteristics of ransomware aimed at medical institutions, and technical measures to prevent ransomware. From a security point of view, one of the most important targets of hackers against hospitals is medical devices. Many medical devices in hospitals are equipped with outdated software that is vulnerable to security and have many restrictions on security patches/updates. In addition, it is not easy to install even security functions such as antivirus due to the specificity of medical devices where availability is most important. As introduced in the Medjack report issued by TrapX Labs, in many cases, attackers target medical devices that are relatively insecure and then penetrate deep into more critical network infrastructure, such as EMR servers [2]. In this literature, we discuss various considerations to respond to ransomware while ensuring the availability of medical devices, and present AI-MDIPS (AI-based medical device intrusion prevention system) technology, a non-invasive and manageable security technology applicable to medical devices developed by the Korean government
Community Development, Local Wisdoms, and Ineffective Government Aid: The Case of Lombok Post-Disaster House Reconstruction Project
Authors: Paramastri Mira Ardhya
Published: October 2021

Despite the high frequency of disasters, post-disaster development projects in Indonesia have yet been implemented effectively. Such may not be easily reflected through the number of aid projects given, for the reality is much more complex. This article believes that the significance of development projects should be assessed from the aid recipients' perspective. The excess rebuilding back in Aceh's 2004 post-disaster case is one example that shows the importance of paying attention to recipient needs from their perspective rather than aid giver perceptions. The post-disaster condition in Lombok back in 2018 could serve as an example to show the effectiveness of post-disaster development in Indonesia recently. In accordance, this article aims to show how the post-disaster community development programs implemented by multi-stakeholders in Indonesia, especially government-initiated ones, have yet successfully fulfilled Lombok post-disaster victims' needs. The article also found that active initiation from the locals and careful attention to local potentials and wisdom is crucial to determine post-disaster development's success. Such a conclusion is based on the assessment of whether the programs have fulfilled community development principles, in addition to satisfying the victim's human security.