bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of the densification process on dowel tensile performance with different types of glues
Authors: Ercan Ersin , Aydin Kadir , Özder Cansu , Atar Musa 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
This study was performed to determine the effects of the densification process and glue type in wood material on dowel tensile performance. For this purpose, 8 mm and 10 mm diameter dowels were obtained from black poplar (Populus nigra) and Eastern spruce (Picea orientalis L.), which were densified at 50% and 75% ratios. The dowels were bonded with PVAc and D-VTKA glue separately after drilling 18 mm deep holes in the edge of the melamine-coated particleboard. The tensile performance test was determined with the Universal test device according to TS 2475 and ASTM-D 1035 principles. As a result, Eastern spruce wood had the highest tensile performance (kg/cm2), and poplar wood had the lowest (173.66). For the dowel diameter parameter, the highest value (195.11) was found at 8 mm in diameter and the lowest value (161.05) was found at 10 mm in diameter. In terms of glue type, the highest value (185.92) was seen at PVAc while the lowest value (170.24) was seen at D-VTKA. And for the densification ratios, the highest value (191.4) was determined at 75%, while the lowest value was found in control samples at (167.4). According to the wood species, densification ratio, dowel diameter and glue type interaction, the highest value was determined at Es + d75% + 10mm + PVAc as (303.5) and the lowest value was found at P + d50% + 10mm + Dv as (110).
As a result, where the dowel's high tensile performance is sought, using a 10 mm diameter dowel made from 75% densified spruce wood with PVAc glue may be advantageous.
Human resources for forestry in Kazakhstan: Current status, potential and problems
Authors: Kirillov Vitaliy , Pathak Ashutosh , Kabanova Svetlana , Stikhareva Tamara , Turumbayev Sergey , Savazova Dinara , Kerteshev Talgat , Rakhimzhanov Alimzhan 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The aim of this research is to assess the current status, potential and problems of human resources for forestry in municipal state forest management institutions (MSFMIs) of Kazakhstan. A total of 120 MSFMIs are functional in Kazakhstan, with almost 5.5 thousand employees, of which 6.1% are women. Overall 63% are foresters, 13% are masters of the wood, 13% are engineers of forestry of all categories, 7% are forest wardens and 4% are directors. The quality of education of forest workers also varies and a minority of forest workers has a higher education. The scenario also suggested that almost 3000 specialists had taken up the advanced training courses from 2003 to 2019. According to a survey of employees of the MSFMIs of two pilot oblasts (Almaty and East Kazakhstan), the average age of an employee is 44.7 years and 79.2% of employees have a work experience of up to 15 years. The main issues and difficulties observed in the work of MSFMIs staff were low wages, lack of modern technique and equipment for forest service, lack of systematic continuing education of employees, poor quality of education, as well as staff turnover, especially foresters, which consequently affects their professional level.
The introduction of red oak (Quercus rubra L.) in Ukrainian forests: advantages of productivity versus disadvantages of invasiveness
Authors: Hayda Yuriy , Mohytych Vasyl , Bidolakh Dmytro , Kuzovych Vasyl , Sułkowska Małgorzata 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The history and dynamics of the introduction of red oak into forest plantations in Ukraine are presented. The positive and negative consequences of this artificially introduced species are characterised. The anthropogenic factor of a broad representation of the species and the probability of low natural spread out outside the existing plantations are highlighted. The current data on the area of red oak plantations by administrative regions, forest categories, types of forest site conditions and age classes in Ukraine are indicated. The possibility of controlling and limiting the adverse invasive effects of red oak representation in forest stands is pointed out. It is recommended to conduct detailed and systematic interdisciplinary research on the degree of red oak invasiveness impact in Ukraine and effective forest care treatments for controlling its negative role.
Contemporary understanding of the risk factors for chronic kidney disease in cold area
Authors: Wei Xinrui , Wang Yongchen 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients in cold areas is an important task in the daily practice of primary medical and health institutions. An important way to reduce the burden of CKD is to achieve early identification of and implement timely intervention on the relevant risk factors. Studies have shown that diet, alcohol, tobacco, air, sedentary and other factors in cold areas have negative impacts on human kidneys; yet, our current understanding of the effect of cold stimulation on CKD remains blurry. This paper introduces the research progress of risk factors related to CKD in cold areas and analytically summarizes the pathogenesis of CKD caused by cold stimulation, aiming to provide a reference work for the prevention, screening, evaluation, and management of CKD in cold areas.
Prevention of osteoporotic fracture: from skeletal and non-skeletal perspectives
Authors: Wang Xinluan , Yang Wenyao , Qin Ling 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
With the global population aging, especially in China, the prevention and management of osteoporotic fragility fractures has become increasingly important. Bone mineral density (BMD) is an important index of osteoporotic fracture risk, which has become aroutine measurement inclinical practice and thus formed the cornerstone in monitoring treatment efficacy of osteoporosis. In the past 30 years, several pharmacologic therapies have been developed to increase BMD and reduce osteoporotic fractures, especially vertebral fractures. However, the management of nonvertebral fractures and hip fractures remains challenging as low BMD is only one of the multi-factors for these conditions. Hip fractures mainly result from a fall and its incidence is higher in the frigid zone due to low temperature affecting neuromuscular function and high latitude with less sunlight, the conditions rendering less active vitamin D conversion, apart from increased falling. In this paper, we focus on two therapeutic strategies targeting both skeletal and non-skeletal factors, that is, Tai Chi (TC) exercise for improving balance and “kidney-tonifying” traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) against muscle atrophy. TC is a mind-body exercise that has the potential as an effective and safe intervention for preventing fall-related fractures in the elderly. This makes it a promising and feasible physical activity for the elderly in frigid zone to prevent osteoporotic fractures. Several TCM formula popular in northeast of China within frigid zone are also introduced. They are reportedly effective in maintaining or improving BMD and muscle strength with the potential of reducing osteoporotic fracture. However, more rationally designed vigorous basic investigations and prospective clinical trials are highly desired to validate and consolidate the preliminary observations in the future.
Antidiabetic agents: Do they hit the right targets?
Authors: Zhao Yongting , Zhang Xiaofang , Liang Haihai , Wang Lihong 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a progressive metabolic disease characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and caused by different degree of pancreatic islet dysfunction and/or insulin resistance (IR). Long course DM can lead to a variety of macrovascular and microvascular complications which involve artery vessels, heart, kidney, retina, nervous system, etc. In recent years, DM has attracted more and more attention due to its high morbidity and mortality. In addition to achieve effective glycemic control, prevention of complications has also been considered a priority for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview on the pharmacotherapeutics for T2DM and perspectives on the future directions of basic and translational research on anti-diabetic therapy and pharmatheutical development of new drugs.
Iron Deficiency Anaemia and Anaemia of Inflammation in Enteropathies Caused by Commonest Small Intestine Disorders: Current Evidence
Authors: Basina Olesja , Derova Jelena , Derovs Aleksejs , Lejniece Sandra 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
It is no mystery that iron deficiency is the most common anaemia and multiple studies have shown that anaemia is a main factor for decreased quality of life. The focus of our article is an up-to-date review of different enteropathies caused by specific disorders and the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA), starting with the understanding of physiology of iron absorption and regulation in the intestine. The pathologies that we tried to cover were celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)-induced enteropathy and protein losing enteropathy. Unfortunately, not everything still understood and questions still remain. The main questions are associated with our understanding of iron regulation beyond the ferroportin-hepcidin axis and what mechanism is behind changes of epithelium in different conditions. Depending on the study and pathology of enteropathy, almost half of the studied patients had iron deficiency anaemia. However, in all enteropathies, IDA is more an additional finding or an additional symptom that needs further investigations. That is why many authors consider that IDA is caused by secondary mechanisms and not enteropathy per se and should be correlating with undernourishment, severe mucosal atrophy, malabsorption, and bleeding.
A quick guide to diagnosis and treatment of cytomegalovirus infection in the gut: current dilemmas
Authors: Drjagunovs Iļja , Laivacuma Sniedze , Zeltiņa Indra , Derovs Aleksejs 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Cytomegalovirus is a ubiquitous herpesvirus, which, after often asymptomatic primary infection, establishes a life-long latency in different organs, including gut. As there is a close synergistic relationship between mucosal inflammation and viral expression, particularly in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, it is often challenging to distinguish subclinical cytomegalovirus replication from cytomegalovirus-mediated colitis. The outcome for patients with cytomegalovirus reactivation appears to be worse than that for patients without reactivation, but the true role of cytomegalovirus is not entirely clear, as is the dilemma whether specific treatment with antivirals alters the course of inflammatory bowel disease. This review focuses on gastrointestinal tract cytomegalovirus disease, with special emphasis on diagnostic and treatment considerations of cytomegalovirus colitis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
Surgical and non-surgical treatment of paediatric appendicitis: can algorithms help us to predict perforation?
Authors: Eņģelis Arnis , Kakar Mohit , Zviedre Astra , Laizāns Paulis , Zurmutai Timurs , Bormotovs Jurijs , Pētersons Aigars 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The recent interest in and evidence of non-surgical treatment with antibiotic therapy has led to the recurring issue of differentiating acute no-complicated appendicitis (AnA) and acute complicated appendicitis (AcA) when these are presented in an emergency department. To create the initial version of an acute appendicitis (AA) diagnostic and treatment algorithm, we analysed treatment results of 178 children with AnA and AcA treated at the Children’s Clinical University Hospital in Rīga, in the period between 2010 and 2013. Evaluation of the clinical symptoms, laboratory and radiological findings was included in development of the algorithm. The algorithm was created in 2016 and accepted by the hospital administration. We present the algorithm’s updated version of 2020. The introduction of diagnostic scores and algorithms has standardised and improved the diagnosis of paediatric AA. New diagnostic tests with higher sensitivity and specificity may improve the accuracy of diagnostic algorithms. Measuring multiple effective biomarkers simultaneously may improve the accuracy of diagnostic algorithms and predict the severity of paediatric AA. Machine learning algorithms may be able to process a much larger amount of data and provide a faster conclusion, helping the surgeon make the right decision in diagnosing appendicitis in children and prevent unnecessary surgery.
Surgical treatment of achalasia: results and quality of life
Authors: Ļeščinska Anna Marija , Ivanovs Igors 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Achalasia is a primary defect of esophageal motility of unknown aetiology, characterised by peristaltic dysfunction of the esophagus and impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. The most common symptoms are dysphagia, regurgitation, weight loss, and chest burning. There are various treatment options for achalasia: botulinum toxin injections, pneumatic dilatation, Heller myotomy, and peroral endoscopic myotomy. The aim of the study was to access the efficacy and quality of life of patients with achalasia after surgical treatment — laparoscopic Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication. All of the patients after surgery had a high gastrointestinal quality of life index. For all patients, during the follow-up period (median 2.4 years), the intensity of clinical symptoms after the procedure declined. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication is a safe and effective method of treating achalasia and can reduce clinical symptoms and improve patients' quality of life.
Burden of extraintestinal manifestations and comorbidities in treated and untreated ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease: a Latvian nationwide prescription database study 2014–2019
Authors: Teterina Irēna , Mokricka Viktorija , Petrošina Eva , Pokrotnieks Juris 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are frequently accompanied by extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) due to systemic autoimmune processes, which are important in the management of IBD patients and their long-term outcomes. The aim of the study was to determine the occurrence of EIMs comorbidities and their burden in IBD patients, based on the Latvian nationwide reimbursed prescription database from 2012 till 2019. Incident Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) patients between 2014 and 2018 were matched on age and sex with non-treated IBD controls and followed up until 2019. EIMs were selected based on a previously used methodology and grouped into organ systems. The cohort was tested for differences in the timing and occurrence of EIMs, as well as overall cumulating disease burden. The study population included 187 CD and 1137 UC patients. Higher prevalence of EIMs was observed in untreated IBD patients, whereas in the treated IBD patient group prevalence remained numerically similar. Among treated patients, the most common EIMs affected cardiovascular, hepatopancreatobiliary, endocrine, musculoskeletal, respiratory, and the skin and intestinal tract systems, where 28.4–79.9% of IBD patients experienced these EIMs for the first time before their IBD diagnosis. The treated female IBD patients tended to have higher frequency of EIMs compared to male patients. The overall comorbidity burden trend increased with time. The study provides evidence that treated IBD patients have lower risk for EIMs/comorbidities compared to untreated IBD patients.
Mesenchymal stem cell therapy in patients with Crohn’s disease — 5 year follow-up
Authors: Knyazev Oleg V. , Kagramanova Anna V. , Parfenov Asfold I. 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
We investigated the efficacy of combination therapy using bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) and Infliximab (IFX) to achieve “deep remission” in patients with luminal Crohn disease (CD). Our study included 72 patients (age 19–62 years) (Ме = 29) with luminal CD. Patients in the 1st group (n = 21) received standard 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) and glucocorticosteroid therapy in combination with MSC. Patients in the 2nd group (n = 32) were prescribed anti-cytokine therapy IFX. Patients in the 3rd group (n = 19) received MSC and IFX. Clinical and immunobiological (C-reactive protein-CRP and faecal calprotectin-FCP) showed a more significant decrease of local and systemic inflammation activity in the 3rd group of patients. During a 5-year follow-up we observed longer duration of remission in patients who received MSC and IFX compared to the 1st (р = 0,04) and 2nd groups of patients (р = 0.038). Combination therapy of bone marrow-derived MSC and IFL provides “deep remission” in patients with luminal CD and has higher prognostic value for duration of CD remission period.
Frequency and risk factors of thromboembolic complications in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Lishchinskaya Albina A. , Knyazev Oleg V. , Kagramanova Anna V. , Parfenov Asfold I. 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are characterised by chronic immune inflammation of the mucous membrane and/or the thickness of the intestinal wall, and are also accompanied by disorders of the blood clotting system and the development of a hypercoagulation state. The aim of this study was to identify the frequency of thromboembolic complications (TEC) in IBD patients and to determine the influence of acquired and inherited hypercoagulation factors that contribute to the development of TEC. The clinical status of 1238 IBD patients who were treated in 2019 was evaluated. Of these, 748 patients suffered from ulcerative colitis (UC) and 490 had Crohn's disease (CD). Among the UC patients, there were 369 men (49.3%) and 379 women (50.7%). In 10.2% of patients with UC, there were clinically significant TEC. There were 227 men (46.3%) and 263 women (53.7%) among patients with CD. 7.3% of patients with CD had clinically significant TEC. 112 (9.0 %) of 1238 IBD patients had clinically significant TEC. Among patients with UC (n = 748), 76 (10.2%) showed clinically significant TEC. Among patients with CD (n = 490), 36 (7.3%) had TEC. Of 112 IBD patients with clinically significant TEC, 45 (40.2%) had genetic polymorphisms that increased affinity for fibrinogen, increased platelet aggregation, and contributed to a decrease in the activity of folate cycle enzymes, including methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, which may be manifested by a moderate increase in homocysteine levels. Of the 45 IBD patients with clinically significant TEC due to inherited factors, 30 (66.6%) patients had UC and 15 (33.7%) patients had CD (HR – 1.038, 95% CI 0.746–1.444; x2 – 0.049; p = 0.83921). 67 patients with IBD (59.8%) who had clinically significant TEC did not have genetic polymorphisms leading to hypercoagulation. Based on the analysis, we can conclude that risk factors for the development of TEC like the status of a smoker, long bed rest, taking hormonal contraceptives, varicose veins of the lower extremities, high activity of the disease, glucocorticosteroids therapy, the extent of intestinal damage in patients with IBD, and genetic factors, should be taken into account by gastroenterologists in the treatment of patients with UC and CD. The hereditary factor of hypercoagulation equally affects the development of TEC, both in patients with UC and CD.
Impact of iatrogenic post-cholecystectomy biliary duct injury on quantity of diagnostic imaging and hospital re-admission
Authors: Miklaseviča Ilze , Popova Ņina Malika , Lapsa Sintija , Ozoliņš Arturs , Radziņa Maija 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Although the risk of persistent biliary duct injury is low, cholecystectomy is one of the most commonly performed procedures worldwide. The occurrence of bile duct injury (BDI) results in complicated reconstructions, prolonged hospitalisation, repeated diagnostic examinations, and a high risk of long-term complications, leading to cost increase. A wide range of diagnostic methods are used to identify the damage and the associated complications. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of iatrogenic post-cholecystectomy BDI on the amount of diagnostic imaging and hospital re-admission rate. The retrospective cross-sectional study included the analysis of records of 38 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, referred to the Diagnostic Radiology Institute, Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital, who underwent diagnostic imaging. Among those who had iatrogenic BDI due to cholecystectomy, 57.9% (22 patients) underwent abdominal ultrasonography, 47.4% (18 patients) underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, 47.4% (18 patients) underwent percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTCA), 44.7% (17 patients) underwent computed tomography, 42.1% (16 patients) underwent magnetic resonance imaging, 13.2% (five patients) underwent US-guided puncture after cholecystectomy, and 15.8% (six patients) underwent fistulography. 18.4% (seven patients) were re-admitted to hospital once due to post-cholecystectomy complications, 34.2% (13 patients) twice, 15.8% (six patients) three times, 5.3% (two patients) four times, 13.2% (five patients) five times, 2.6% (one patient) seven times, 2.6% (one patient) ten times, 5.3% (two patients) eleven times and 2.6% (one patient) was re-admitted twenty-five times. Statistically significant strong correlation between hospital re-admission rate and PTCA (rs = 0.682, p < 0.001) was found. Iatrogenic post-cholecystectomy BDI significantly affects repeated diagnostic imaging and the hospital re-admission rate and, therefore, negatively affects hospital economics and patient welfare.
Dominating taxonomic composition of the early life gut microbiota and influencing factors in infants up to seven months of age in Latvia
Authors: Zelča Egija , Gudrā Dita , Lūse Ērika , Peterleviča Jana , Ustinova Maija , Fridmanis Dāvids , Rumba-Rozenfelde Ingrīda , Daugule Ilva 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
It has been hypothesised that the establishment of stable adult microbiota is programmed in infancy, and therefore early life gut colonisation may lead to a lifelong microbiota pattern with significant effects on health. The aim of the study was to analyse the composition of gut microbiota and influencing factors in infants up to seven months of age in Latvia. A cross-sectional study was performed at primary healthcare centres. The parents of healthy infants filled out a questionnaire and brought the child’s faecal sample. 16 rRNS gene sequencing was performed to identify the bacterial taxonomic units. The composition of gut microbiota was compared between children with different risk factors. The final participant sample group included 55 infants with median age 4.0 months. The infant gut microbiota of the sample group had typical and rather healthy microbiota — the main phyla detected were Firmicutes and Actinobacteria, the main family was Bifidobacteriacea and genus — Bifidobacterium. A significant effect of the type of delivery and feeding type was identified, as well as negative correlation between Lactobacilli and gestational age. Further, it would be important to analyse the changes of microbiota prospectively to identify the association with environmental factors and health status in dynamics.