bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Divergent evolution of Corynebacterium diphtheriae in India: An update from National Diphtheria Surveillance network
Authors: Devanga Ragupathi Naveen Kumar , Muthuirulandi Sethuvel Dhiviya Prabaa , Murugan Dhivya , Ranjan Ranjini , Gautam Vikas , Gupta Prashanth , Johnson Jaichand , Sharma Naresh Chand , Mutreja Ankur , Haldar Pradeep , Kumar Arun , Bhatnagar Pankaj , Sangal Lucky , Veeraraghavan Balaji
Published: December 2021

Diphtheria is caused by a toxigenic bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheria which is being an emerging pathogen in India. Since diphtheria morbidity and mortality continues to be high in the country, the present study aimed to study the molecular epidemiology of C. diphtheriae strains from India. A total of 441 diphtheria suspected specimens collected as part of the surveillance programme between 2015 and 2020 were studied. All the isolates were confirmed as C. diphtheriae with standard biochemical tests, ELEK’s test, and real-time PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing for the subset of isolates showed intermediate susceptibility to penicillin and complete susceptible to erythromycin and cefotaxime. Isolates were characterized using multi locus sequence typing method. MLST analysis for the 216 C. diphtheriae isolates revealed major diversity among the sequence types. A total of 34 STs were assigned with majority of the isolates belonged to ST466 (30%). The second most common ST identified was ST405 that was present in 14% of the isolates. The international clone ST50 was also seen. The identified STs were grouped into 8 different clonal complexes (CC). The majority belongs to CC5 followed by CC466, CC574 and CC209, however a single non-toxigenic strain belongs to CC42. This epidemiological analysis revealed the emergence of novel STs and the clones with better dissemination properties. This study has also provided information on the circulating strains of C. diphtheriae among the different regions of India. The molecular data generated through surveillance system can be utilized for further actions in concern.
La violencia invisible de lo cotidiano y la responsabilidad del profesional en ciencias sociales
Authors: Guevara Parra América Celeste
Published: December 2021

El objetivo de este escrito es reflexionar en torno a la indiferencia propia de un mundo regido por el interés personal donde todo ha sido permeado por la lógica productiva, incluso las relaciones entre los seres humanos. La organización del ensayo se estructura en tres apartados correspondientes a los subtemas principales: la violencia cotidiana hacia grupos socialmente desfavorecidos; el discurso de felicidad ligado a la lógica de la productividad como imperativo de la época; y una pregunta por la posición desde la que intervienen los profesionales en ciencias sociales. Se acude al “Método analítico” como herramienta metodológica pues invita a introducir y mantener el cuestionamiento respecto al tema de interés a partir de un saber siempre por constituirse, más que a refugiarse en la comodidad de caminos metodológicos prestablecidos que no dan lugar ni a la sorpresa ni al deseo del investigador. A modo de conclusión, se menciona la incidencia de nuevas formas de agresión que proliferan de manera global, silenciosa y constante en forma de xenofobia, racismo y clasismo hacia sectores a los que les es difícil adaptarse al sistema productivo y se destaca la función de las ciencias sociales como facilitadoras de recursos simbólicos necesarios para tramitar el malestar contemporáneo en sujetos y comunidades que han sido desechados por el sistema.
Effect Of Chitosan Treatment On Shear Bond Strength Of Composite To Deep Dentin Using Self-Etch And Total-Etch Adhesive Systems
Authors: Vasei Fateme , Sharafeddin Farahnaz
Published: December 2021

Objective: To assess the shear bond strength (SBS) of resin composite to deep dentin, using 1 and 2.5% chitosan pretreatment as well as different adhesive systems. Material and Methods: 80 human maxillary molars were randomly divided to eight groups according to the type of adhesive system and dentin pretreatment (n = 10): I) two-step self-etch system (Clearfil SE bond); II) two-step etch-andrinse system (Adper single bond 2); III) 2.5% chitosan + Clearfil SE bond; IV) 2.5% chitosan +etch + Adper single bond 2; V) etch + 2.5% chitosan + Adper single bond 2; VI) 1% chitosan + Clearfil SE bond; VII) 1% chitosan + etch + Adper single bond 2; VIII) etch + 1% chitosan + Adper single bond 2 (chitosan solution (w/v): 2.5 g and 1 g of chitosan (Sigma Aldrich, USA) was dissolved in 100 ml of 1% acetic acid). Plastic molds were positioned on dentin and filled with composite (Z350, 3M ESPE, USA). SBS (MPa) was tested using a universal testing machine. ANOVA tests, Tukey’s test, and independent t test were used to analyze data (p < 0.05). Results: The highest SBS value among self-etch groups was observed with 1% chitosan (p = 0.001). In the etch-and-rinse group, the SBS of 1% chitosan was significantly lower than the other groups. Chitosan treatment following acid etching led to higher SBS in comparison to when chitosan was applied before etching, with the significant difference in 1% concentration (p = 0.030). A predominance of mix fractures was observed in dentin. Conclusion: Improved dentin bond strength can be achieved through immediate dentin pretreatment with 1% chitosan in self-etch adhesive systems. Chitosan Pretreatment may not be advantageous for etch-and-rinse adhesive systems.
Keywords
Adhesive system; Chitosan; Deep dentin; Shear strength.
Age estimation by pulp/tooth area and width ratios in panoramic images of upper and lower canines among the Iranian population
Authors: Bardal Roghieh , Soltani Mitra
Published: December 2021

Objective: One of the techniques of estimating age in forensic medicine, which is associated with the least trauma in both living individuals and corpses, is to use teeth. Accordingly, the present study aims to determine the relationship between chronological age and pulp-to-tooth area ratio and pulp-to-root width ratio in maxillary and mandibular canines on panoramic radiographs among the Iranian population.  Material and Methods: A total of 162 panoramic radiographs were evaluated in the present study. Selected patients were of verified age with the age range of 15-45 years. The pulp-to-tooth area ratio (PTR) and the pulp-to-root width ratio were calculated with AutoCAD 2016 software program in maxillary and mandibular canines at two points of the root. The two points include cemento-enamel Junction (CEJ) and pulp/root width at the quarter of a distance between CEJ and end point of root-canal, which was named WA, WB respectively. The patients’ age was also estimated with the use of linear regression equation. Then each patient’s chronological age and the age estimated using this technique was compared. Results: The relationship between PTR in both canines and WB variable in maxilla with chronological age was inverse and significant (P < 0.05); However, there was no strong correlation coefficient (r Gender had no effect on the results of the study. The mean difference between predicted age and actual age with combined PTR and WB formula was lower than 1 year. When the mean of PTR or WB variables was considered as a predictor, significant results were obtained (P < 0.05), showing a decrease in Standard error of estimation (SEE). The results were not significant when variables of upper PTR and lower PTR and the interaction between them were included in the linear regression model (p > 0.05). Same results were obtained with the variable of WB. Conclusion: Combining the variables of PTR and WB gives better results than using variables alone. Estimation of age with the mean of each variable shows less error than their combination.
 
Keywords
Age determination; Canine; Panoramic radiography.
Randomized comparative study in the treatment of oral leucoplakia with laser and conventional surgery
Authors: Petrov Petko Georgiev , Daskalov Hristo Ivanov , Dinkova Atanaska Spasova
Published: December 2021

Objective: High-energy lasers are used as an alternative to surgical treatment of potentially malignant disorders in the oral cavity. The present article aims to make a prospective randomised comparative clinical assessment of the effect of laser surgery and conventional surgery in the treatment of oral leukoplakia (OL). Materials and methods: In the study were included 89 patients with histologically confirmed oral leukoplakia lesions. Laser excision of the lesions using Er YAG laser was performed in 36 of the patients, while standard surgical excision was used in 53 of the cases. Following clinical assessment comparing the two treatment methods was conducted based on: pain, wound healing, infection and recurrence of the lesions. Results: A statistically significant difference between two groups according pain in the postoperative period was found. Patients treated with laser ablation experienced far less pain than those treated with surgical excision. The healing time was significantly faster in the group treated with Er YAG laser, and regarding the occurrence of postoperative infections, the results of the two methods did not differ significantly. Recurrence was observed earlier in the group treated with laser ablation, but the levels align over a longer period of time. Conclusion: Er YAG laser ablation is a contemporary method for the treatment of oral leukoplakia without dysplasia, providing similar success, compared to conventional surgical excision, with less postoperative discomfort for the patients.
 
Keywords
 Er YAG laser; Leukoplakia; Potentially malignant disorders.
Awareness and precaution attitude of dentists as regards to risks associated with exposure to COVID-19
Authors: Benli Merve , Huck Olivier , Ozcan Mutlu
Published: December 2021

Objective: Dentists need a high level of awareness to limit the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019). This study aimed to evaluate the level of awareness and attitude regarding the risk associated with dental procedures among dentists. Material and Methods: An online questionnaire was submitted to dentists between April- May 2020. The questionnaire form included questions related to demographic data, the transmission characterization of SARS-CoV-2, and treatment of COVID-19 patients. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS V23 and chi-square test (p 0.05). Results: A total of 3825 participants (29.1 7.6 years) were included. In COVID-19, the riskiest dental branch in terms of the risk of contamination through saliva was considered to be Periodontics (32.2%), while the least risky branch was Orthodontics (0.2%). Specific dental treatment procedures considered at high risk of contamination were tooth preparation (69.4%), scaling and root planing (63.5%), filling (53.4%), and pulpectomy (40.5%). The parameters of the study that differed according to gender and professional status were the viability of the virus, the risk assessment, saliva contamination risk, and aerosol-generating activities for COVID-19 (p 0.05). Conclusion: Dentists were aware of the risk assessment and extra precautionary methods. However, they had limited knowledge about the viability of the virus. Dentists should be aware of recommended approaches and update their knowledge about COVID-19 to limit the spread of the disease. Since dentistry is an area suitable for the transmission of the COVID-19, the fact that dentists have information about the viability of this virus will be lifesaving in clinical applications.
Keywords
COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; Dentistry; Risk; Viability.
Las representaciones sociales del profesorado sobre la Historia Reciente Presente de Chile y su enseñanza en sexto año básico
Authors: Díaz Zúñiga Francisca , Santisteban Fernández Antoni , González Monfort Neus
Published: December 2021

El artículo analiza las representaciones sociales del profesorado sobre la Historia Reciente Presente de Chile y su enseñanza en sexto año básico. Es una investigación educativa que se inserta en el Campo de la Didáctica de las Ciencias Sociales. Se analizan los datos obtenidos de 11 cuestionarios y 11 entrevistas en profundidad realizadas a docentes de Historia, Geografía y Ciencias Sociales de establecimientos educacionales de la Región Metropolitana y la Región de Valparaíso de Chile. El objetivo es identificar el origen de sus representaciones. Las cuales permiten aproximarnos a conocer las diversas variantes que influyen en la construcción del pensamiento del profesorado sobre dicho periodo histórico. La construcción de imaginarios es un antecedente que también influye al momento de realizar la enseñanza de los contenidos. Por ello, esta investigación analiza los siguientes aspectos: a) los orígenes de las representaciones sociales sobre la HRP de Chile; b) la influencia del pensamiento del profesorado en la enseñanza de la HRP; c) la periodización de la HRP; d) los contenidos que el profesorado reconoce como parte de la HRP de Chile; e) los contenidos de la HRP de Chile que el profesorado enseña en sexto año básico; f) las finalidades de la enseñanza de la HRP en sexto básico.
Dobra Nowina w środkach społecznego przekazu pod red. Henryka Sławińskiego, Ancilla Verbi, t. 10, Kraków 2020
Authors: Kalbarczyk Adam
Published: December 2021

The Church must tirelessly seek appropriate means and language to effectively proclaim every person’s universal vocation to salvation. Today’s witnesses to the Gospel should use the potential of old and new means of communication in preaching and ministry. Above all, they should revive in themselves the courage to settle on ‘new areopaguses’. The most important goal of evangelization is to bring every person to an encounter with Christ, who is the main content of the proclaimed Good News. The authors of this monograph did not forget about it. By showing both the enormous possibilities and certain limitations of the new media in proclaiming the Gospel to the world, they first asked themselves whether those countless texts, images and sounds that fill today’s periodicals, radio, television, film truly reflect the face of Christ and let His voice be heard.
The second wave of COVID-19 results in outbreak of mucormycosis: diabetes and immunological perspective
Authors: Ahirwar Ashok kumar , Kaim Kirti , Ahirwar Pradeep , Kumawat Rajani
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the potential relationship between COVID-19 pandemic and mucormycosis outbreak.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar were searched for the term “COVID-19 and mucormycosis” up to May 31, 2021.

Results

After the second wave of COVID-19, the mucormycosis outbreak complicates the natural course of COVID-19. COVID-19 patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus with diabetic ketoacidosis, excessive glucocorticoid use, prolonged neutropenia, malnutrition and any underlying immunocompromised conditions are at risk of developing mucormycosis.

Conclusions

Hyperglycaemia impairs the motility of phagocytes and also decreases the oxidative and non-oxidative mechanism of killing the causative pathogen. Chronic hyperglycemia also leads to the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGE), which leads to cross-linking between key proteins of inflammation and connective tissue such as collagen which makes tissue susceptible to immunological dysregulation. The receptor for AGE (RAGE) is expressed on various inflammatory cells including neutrophils and its activation by AGEs leads to activation of many down signaling pathways which ultimately leads to impairment of the inflammatory response. Hyperglycemia also increases serum Nitric Oxide (NO), which decreases neutrophil motility and reduces the synthesis and release of various inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-1β, IL-6. It also decreases the expression of adhesion molecules such as LFA-1 and ICAM-2, on neutrophils. Steroids cause immunosuppression majorly by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway which is a transcription factor involved in the synthesis of many immunological mediators such as Interleukins, cytokines, chemokines, etc., and various adhesion molecules.
Intercultural Dialogues in Third Spaces: A Study of Learning Experiences of Museum Visitors
Authors: Du Juana , Cui Mingshi
Published: December 2021

Bodo (2012) called for the need of museum exhibitions to create “third spaces” where individuals can cross the boundaries of belonging (both physical and psychological) to engage in intercultural dialogues. The imaginary cultural space of museum has propelled us into a realization that we are in an era where interculturality, transculturalism, and the eventual prospect of identifying a cosmopolitan citizenship can become a reality. Predicated on a five-month ethnography work at a provincial museum in British Columbia, Canada, this research explores the following questions: how have cultural and historical museum exhibitions put us in contact with theotherand foster an understanding of theother? And how has transculturalism led to the establishment of a cosmopolitan citizenship? This study lends support to the potentiality of a cultural and historical museum transforming into “third spaces” where visitors may actively engage in exploration of complex multitudes of cultural identities and cosmopolitan citizenship. The findings of this study contribute to the literature on “third spaces” and transculturalism by providing an empirical study of learning experiences of visitors in museums. It reaffirms the notion of transculturalism by proposing a new humanism in recognition of theother, and in expressing oneself in a conscious subjective manner with cultural empathy. From a practical perspective, it suggests that in order to encourage international visitors to cross the cultural and psychological boundaries and engage in dialogues, the museum professionals may design interactive programs in a creative manner. It also suggests that museum administrators improve their services to more diverse groups of visitors to enhance inclusiveness.
Hearing loss and brain disorders: A review of multiple pathologies
Authors: Oluwole Oluwafemi Gabriel , James Kili , Yalcouye Abdoulaye , Wonkam Ambroise
Published: December 2021

Several causative factors are associated with hearing loss (HL) and brain disorders. However, there are many unidentified disease modifiers in these conditions. Our study summarised the most common brain disorders associated with HL and highlighted mechanisms of pathologies. We searched the literature for published articles on HL and brain disorders. Alzheimer’s disease/dementia, Parkinson’s disease, cognitive impairment, autism spectrum disorder, ataxia, epilepsy, stroke, and hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy majorly co-interact with HL. The estimated incidence rate was 113 per 10,000 person-years. Genetic, epigenetic, early life/neonatal stress, hypoxia, inflammation, nitric oxide infiltration, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and excess glutamate were the distinguished modifiers identified. Various mechanisms like adhesion molecules, transport proteins, hair cell apoptosis, and neurodegeneration have been implicated in these conditions and are serving as potential targets for therapies. To improve the quality of life of patients, these understandings will improve clinical diagnoses and management of HL and brain disorders.
Key role of surface plasmon polaritons in generation of periodic surface structures following single-pulse laser irradiation of a gold step edge
Authors: Terekhin Pavel N. , Oltmanns Jens , Blumenstein Andreas , Ivanov Dmitry S. , Kleinwort Frederick , Garcia Martin E. , Rethfeld Baerbel , Ihlemann Jürgen , Simon Peter
Published: December 2021

Understanding the mechanisms and controlling the possibilities of surface nanostructuring is of crucial interest for both fundamental science and application perspectives. Here, we report a direct experimental observation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) formed near a predesigned gold step edge following single-pulse femtosecond laser irradiation. Simulation results based on a hybrid atomistic-continuum model fully support the experimental observations. We experimentally detect nanosized surface features with a periodicity of ∼300 nm and heights of a few tens of nanometers. We identify two key components of single-pulse LIPSS formation: excitation of surface plasmon polaritons and material reorganization. Our results lay a solid foundation toward simple and efficient usage of light for innovative material processing technologies.
Modeling and analysis of 3D radiative heat transfer in combustor
Authors: Zhou Yue , Zhu Xijuan , Guo Qisheng , Qi Pengcheng , Ma Jing
Published: December 2021

Compared with wall emission, gas thermal radiation is much more complicated because of its nongray and volumetric property. In this paper, a numerical method is established to calculate 3D radiative heat transfer in combustor by modelling radiative transfer as well as nongray radiative properties of combustion gases. Energy exchanges caused by thermal radiation and conduction are calculated and compared in a rectangular combustor, which shows the significant role of thermal radiation in heating fuel-air mixtures and prompting internal combustion reactions. Besides, radiative heat flux on the wall is also quite obvious although a non-contacting flow case, revealing the special challenges for thermal protections brought by radiant energy. Lastly, increasing the working pressure means much more participating species in radiative transfer process and the radiative effects will be also magnified. The numerical method in this paper provides a direct technique to analyze the role of thermal radiation in complex thermochemical reactions while the application case proves the necessity of coupling a high-accuracy radiation model when simulating combustion and flame propagation.
LİTYUM KLORİT/DİMETİLASETAMİT ORTAMINDA NANOSELÜLOZUN ASETİK ANHİDRİT VE FARKLI YAĞ ASİTLERİ İLE ESTERİFİKASYONUNUN OPTİMİZASYONU
Authors: ERİNÇ Özlem , ERİNÇ Hakan , MERT Behiç , ÖZBEY Ayşe
Published: December 2021

Sunulan bu çalışmada buğday kepeği, mısır koçanı ve ayçiçeği tablasından mikro-akışkan tekniği kullanılarak nanolifler elde edildikten sonra farklı zincir uzunluklarına sahip yağ asitleri (C6, C12, C18, C18:1) ile farklı derecelerde esterleştirilmesinin optimizasyonu yapılmıştır. İlk olarak, selülozik materyal NaOH ile muamele edildi ve daha sonra nano-selüloz lifi elde etmek için kolloid değirmen ve mikro akışkanlaştırıcıda öğütüldü. Bu liflerde selüloz, lignin ve su tutma kapasitesi analizleri yapılmıştır. Örneklerin selüloz içeriği arttıkça su tutma kapasitelerinin arttığı belirlendi. Bu lifler, farklı esterleşme derecelerinde nanoselüloz-yağ asidi esterleri elde etmek için farklı yağ asitleri ile esterleştirildi. Bu sayede, farklı hidrofilik ve lipofilik gruplara sahip nano-selüloz yağ asidi esterleri elde edildi (esterleşme dereceleri 0,41-2,99). Reaksiyon süresinin ve kullanılan yağ asidi miktarının arttırılması, esterleşme reaksiyonunun yüksek oranda gerçekleşmesini sağladı. Maksimum esterleşme derecesine sahip ürünler, 90°C'de 300 dakika sonunda anhidroglükoz birimi başına ortalama 2.45 asetil grubu ve 0.55 yağ asidi olarak elde edildi. Sonuç olarak, selülozun farklı yağ asitleri ve asetik anhidrit ile DMAc/LiCl ortamında farklı derecelerde esterleştirilmesi sağlandı.
ZEYTİN (Olea europaea L.) YAPRAĞININ FONKSİYONEL ÖZELLİKLERİ VE GIDALARDA KULLANIM POTANSİYELİ
Authors: SALIK Mehmet Ali , ÇAKMAKÇI Songül
Published: December 2021

Tıbbi-aromatik bitkiler, koruyucu ve tedavi edici özelliklerinden dolayı yüzyıllardır kullanılmaktadır. Bunların fitokimyasal profillerinin belirlenmesi, kullanım alanlarının ve endüstriyel potansiyellerinin geliştirilmesi üzerine yapılan çalışmalara ilgi gittikçe artmaktadır. Bu bitkilerden biri de zeytin yaprağıdır. Zeytin yaprağı; Avrupa ve Akdeniz ülkelerinde (Türkiye, Yunanistan, İspanya, İtalya, Fransa, İsrail, Fas ve Tunus) halk hekimliğinde yaygın olarak kullanılmaktadır. İnsan beslenmesinde ekstrakt, bitki çayı ve toz olarak kullanılabilen zeytin yaprağı; antioksidan bileşikler, fenolikler, flavonoitler, sekoiridoitler (oleuropein), triterpenler ve karatenoitler gibi biyoaktif bileşenler açısından zengindir. Zeytin yaprağı, bileşimindeki oleuropein ve fenolik bileşiklerden dolayı antioksidan, antimikrobiyel, anti-inflamatuar, antiaterojenik, antikarsinojenik, antiviral, hipoglisemik ve nöroprotektif gibi farmakolojik etkiler göstermektedir. Biyoaktif bileşikler açısından potansiyel olan ve fitokimyasal profilleri belirlenmiş bitkisel kaynaklar ve tarımsal gıda ve yan ürünleri sağlığı korumak için nutrasötiklerin ve fonksiyonel gıdaların geliştirilmesinde ümit verici görünmektedir. Bu derlemede, zeytin yaprağının fitokimyasal profiline dikkat çekerek, sağlık faydaları ve gıda sanayiinde kullanım potansiyeli ele alınmıştır.
Vacuum brazing of titanium alloy to stainless steel enhance by fiber laser surface texturing
Authors: Sulaiman H. A.J. , M. H. Aiman  , M. Ishak  , M. M. Quazi  , T. Zaharinie  , T. Ariga
Published: December 2021

A method for improving the brazing joining strength of Titanium alloy/Stainless steel fabricated through fibre laser surface texturing is introduced because it is a simple process that does not require the fabrication of complicated interlayers. However, previous research shows that a milimeter scale was fabricated by surface modification for dissimilar brazing join, yielding insignificant results and limiting the application and degree of enhancement. Fiber laser ablation was used in this study to create microscale periodic patterns (grooves) on a stainless steel surface. No defect or damage induced during laser surface texturing process. The groove dimension was tunable by controlling the laser parameters. Vacuum brazing of Ti6Al4V to 316L stainless steel with surface texturing, the average joint strength was 22.1 MPa, 34% of increase of joining strength compared to unprocessed flat surface. The combination of laser surface texturing and brazing proven effectively on joining strength enhancement.
Subacute thyroiditis post-Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccination for COVID-19
Authors: Khan Farooq , Brassill Mary Jane
Published: December 2021

There is emerging evidence of an association between COVID-19 vaccination and subacute thyroiditis. We present the case of a 42-year-old female healthcare worker who was diagnosed with subacute thyroiditis 4 days after receiving her second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Her clinical course followed the classical pattern for thyroiditis with spontaneous return to euthyroidism at 6 months post-presentation. The autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants has been implicated as a cause of autoimmune conditions post-vaccination and is a potential mechanism for subacute thyroiditis in our case.

Learning points

Subacute thyroiditis should be considered in all patients who receive any kind of vaccine for COVID-19 and subsequently develop symptoms or signs of hyperthyroidism or neck pain.

Subacute thyroiditis is a self-limiting condition, and recognising it is important as no specific thyroid treatment (antithyroid drugs or thyroid hormone replacement) is necessary for most patients.

The autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants may be an under-recognised cause of endocrinopathies and should particularly be considered post-vaccination.
Effects of melatonin on the production of GnRH and LH in luteal cells of pregnant sows
Authors: Zhang Wenlong , Zhang Zelin , Peng Jiang , Yang Sitian , Tong Dewen
Published: December 2021

Effects of melatonin on the release and synthesis of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) at the hypothalamus and pituitary levels have been explored in some species, but a similar study in the corpora lutea (CL) has not yet been conducted. In this study, the immunostaining for GnRH and LH was observed in luteal cells of porcine CL during pregnancy, and a significant effect of pregnant stage on the level of GnRH and LH was found; higher values for GnRH and LH immunostaining and mRNA were detected in the early and mid-stages CL than in the later-stage CL (P  < 0.01). Furthermore, the patterns of melatonin membrane receptors (MT1 and MT2) expression were consistent with those of GnRH and LH expression in the CL of pregnant sows; the relative levels of MT1 and MT2 in the early and mid-stages were significantly higher than those in the later-stage (P  < 0.01). In luteal cells, melatonin dose-dependently increased in GnRH and LH secretion and mRNA expression. Melatonin also increased the GnRH-induced accumulation of LH and the LH-induced secretion of P4 in luteal cells. Additionally, the effects of melatonin on luteal GnRH and LH production were blocked by luzindole, a non-selective MT1 and MT2 receptor antagonist. Our results demonstrate the stimulatory effects of melatonin on GnRH and LH production in luteal cells of pregnant sows, suggesting a potential role for melatonin in luteal function through regulating the release and synthesis of GnRH and LH in luteal cells.
Early and Long-Term Outcomes after Direct Bridge-to-Transplantation with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Hébert Mélanie , Noly Pierre-Emmanuel , Lamarche Yoan , Bouhout Ismail , Mauduit Marion , Giraldeau Geneviève , Lelong Bernard , Verhoye Jean-Phlippe , Carrier Michel , Flécher Erwan
Published: December 2021

Background: Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) as direct bridge-to-transplantation (dBTT) remains controversial. We compared the short- and long-term outcomes of adult patients undergoing urgent heart transplantation (HT) with (dBTT) and without (non-BTT) VA-ECMO support at the time of HT.
Methods: Adults who underwent urgent HT in two institutions were assessed (N = 133; dBTT: N = 34 and non-BTT: N = 99). Patient characteristics, donor characteristics, in-hospital outcomes, and overall survival were compared. Mean follow up was 77±38 months and was 100% complete. Mortality predictors were identified using univariate and multivariate analyses.
Results: Before HT, patients with dBTT had higher rates of ischemic cardiomyopathy, acute kidney injury, liver failure, respiratory failure, and longer graft ischemia times. More patients in the dBTT group had complications, such as requiring VA-ECMO postoperatively (dBTT=50% vs. non-BTT=20%, P < 0.01). Hospital deaths (dBTT=23% vs. non-BTT=19%, P = 0.58), one-year (74% vs. 80%) and five-year survival (62% vs. 75%, P = 0.74 for overall survival) were not significantly different. The MELD-XI score and previous cardiac surgery were independent predictors of hospital mortality.
Conclusion: Direct bridge-to-transplantation in patients on VA-ECMO support was not associated with worse long-term outcomes compared with non-VA-ECMO urgent HT, especially in recipients without any associated organ failure and a low MELD-XI score before HT.
Temperature development of cardboard in contact with high-frequency vibrating metal surfaces
Authors: Löwe Albrecht , Hauptmann Marek , Hofmann André , Majschak Jens-Peter
Published: December 2021

The heating of cardboard was studied when it is in contact with ultrasonic sonotrodes, whose vibrations were orientated parallel and perpendicular to the material surface. The parameters that were varied included the contact pressure on the sonotrode, vibration amplitude, and moisture content of the material. It was shown that there was a major decrease in the contact pressure shortly after the beginning of the experiment when the gap between the sonotrode and anvil was kept constant and thus a decrease in the temperature gradient of the material occurred. With parallel vibration, the material heated up from the sonotrode side, whereas heating started from the center of the material in the case of vertical vibration. This suggested that in cases of vertical vibration, heat is mostly generated by internal dissipation, and in cases of parallel vibration, heat is generated by friction losses on the surface. Furthermore, the results revealed the influence of the parameters on the initial temperature gradient, the maximum temperature, and the moisture content of the material.
New Gynandromorph Records for Chirocephalus diaphanus (Branchiopoda, Anostraca, Chirocephalidae)
Authors: Rogers D. C. , Cottarelli V. , Marrone F.
Published: December 2021

We report and describe new Chirocephalus diaphanus Prévost, 1803 gynandromorphs from Tunisia and review the literature of anostracan gynandromorphy and other, possibly associated, somatic aberrations, with comments on their evolutionary significance. Our material has three specimens that are specifically deformed on the left side of the head.
From Telemedicine to the ICU—Fever and Rash in a 9-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Maffei Salvador , De Guzman Marietta , Rochat Ryan , Tran Jennifer , Risen Sarah , Dean Andrea , Coleman Nana
Published: December 2021

A 9-year-old girl presented to her primary care pediatrician via telemedicine during the initial months of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic because of 4 days of warmth perceived by her mother, decreased energy, and a new rash on her upper extremities. After 10 additional days of documented fever >38°C, worsening fatigue, and 1 day of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, she was allowed to schedule an in-person visit with her pediatrician after testing negative for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. She appeared ill on arrival to clinic, and her pediatrician recommended evaluation in an emergency department. Her initial laboratory testing revealed nonspecific elevation in several inflammatory markers and leukopenia, and she responded well to intravenous hydration. Over the next 2 weeks, her fever persisted, constitutional symptoms worsened, and she developed progressively painful cervical lymphadenopathy and pancytopenia. She was evaluated in clinic by several specialists and eventually was urged to present to the emergency department again, at which time she was admitted to the PICU. After consulting additional specialists and waiting for laboratory results, the team reached a definitive diagnosis and initiated therapy; however, she experienced rapid clinical decline shortly thereafter. The specialists who assisted with identification of the underlying etiology of her symptoms were able to work together to manage the subsequent complications.
Relationship between thoracic kyphosis angle, dyspnea perception, and disease-specific health status in patients with COPD
Authors: ERDOĞAN Ahmet , TAŞPINAR Betül , TELLİ ATALAY Orçin , TORU Ümran , TASPİNAR Ferruh
Published: December 2021

Purpose: This study was carried out to examine the relationship between thoracic kyphosis angle, dyspnea perception, and disease-specific health status in patients with COPD and thus to reveal the postural effect.Methods: A total of 105 patients (68.10±8.59 years, FEV1:47.59±21.50%) diagnosed with COPD were included in the study. The thoracic kyphosis angle was evaluated using the Spinal Mouse® device and the dyspnea perception with the Modified Medical Research Council (MMRC) Dyspnea Scale. For the disease-specific health status, the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and the Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ) were used. The patients were separated into three groups according to the thoracic kyphosis angle as Group 1: 20°-50°, Group 2: 51°-60°, and Group 3: 61°-90° and groups were compared.Results: While a significant positive relationship at a low level was observed between the thoracic kyphosis angle and the dyspnea perception (rho=0.23, p=0.02), no relationship was determined with the disease-specific health status (rho<0.20, p>0.05). CAT and CCQ scores were similar between groups (p>0.05). In group 3 with thoracic kyphosis angle>60°, the dyspnea perception was significantly higher (p=0.03).Conclusion: As the thoracic kyphosis angle increase in patients with COPD, the dyspnea perception increases, but the disease-specific health status remains stable. The postures of patients with COPD should be evaluated in detail in physiotherapy and rehabilitation practices due to increased dyspnea caused by thoracic kyphosis. Also, preventive measures such as exercise and ergonomic arrangements should be taken for thoracic kyphosis in the early period.
Promoting the Pedagogical Use of Pictograms
Authors: Vargas Juan Pablo Zúñiga
Published: December 2021

This article reports on the findings of a qualitative research project, in which an instrumental case study with five in-service English teachers graduated from Universidad Nacional (UNA), Costa Rica was carried out. Hence, a hybrid continuing education workshop was designed and conducted, which was focused on promoting the pedagogical use of pictograms in the design of materials for teaching English. As the main product of the workshop, the participants created and used a teaching material which included pictograms. Among the main results obtained in the research project, the students’ facility, motivation, and speed to communicate their ideas in English by using pictograms stood out.
O professor como escritor e pesquisador
Authors: Bizzaro Patrick , Nogara Marina Soares
Published: December 2021

Tradução do artigo “Teacher as Writer and Researcher: The Poetry Dilemma”, de Patrick Bizzaro,2 publicado originalmente em 1983, na revista Language Arts (v. 60, n. 7). No artigo, o autor reflete sobre suas práticas de ensino de escrita de poesia em relação à sua própria escrita poética, ou seja, sobre as implicações da personalidade multifacetada do professor de Escrita Criativa – teórico, escritor e pesquisador – em suas formas de ensinar. Num primeiro momento, embasa suas reflexões nas três abordagens utilizadas no ensino de escrita de poesia levantadas por Lucky Jacobs no artigo “Three Approaches to the Teaching of Poetry Writing” (1977): abordagem por modelos, abordagem por atividades e abordagem por modelos e atividades. Em seguida, reflete sobre o próprio processo de criação, analisando diferentes estágios da composição de um de seus poemas. Por fim, discute as descobertas proporcionadas pelo processo de autoanálise empreendido, estabelecendo pontes entre pesquisa, ensino e criação. Apesar de ter sido publicado há quase 40 anos, o artigo é uma contribuição relevante para o campo acadêmico da Escrita Criativa no Brasil, em seu atual momento de consolidação e expansão.
Literatura staropolska wobec problemu zła. Uwagi wstępne
Authors:   Instytut Badań Literackich PAN, Warszawa, Polska, Lasocińska Estera
Published: December 2021

The article discusses the old Polish ways of explaining evil. The first part briefly presents the philosophical theories struggling with the problem of its existence and origin: Aristotelianism, Platonism, Stoicism and Epicureanism. It was found that the reception of these views can be traced in selected texts of the old Polish literature. Therefore, in the second and third parts of the article, appropriate analyses were carried out on the basis of the literary material provided by “Elegia IV 3” and the epigram “O żywocie ludzkim” (I 101) by Jan Kochanowski, as well as “Tobiasz wyzwolony” and “Adverbia moralia” by Stanisław Herakliusz Lubomirski. They focus primarily on the problem of suffering leading to the question of the essence of God, who, being the omnipotent Creator of the world, is also responsible for the presence of evil in it. Using the Epicurean theory of indifferent deities, Kochanowski presents, close to deism, the concept of the Creator acting for Himself and from heaven viewing His work with the Artist’s eye; Lubomirski, on the other hand, stands on the side of theism and assumes that God is the Creator of good, and that evil only allows the wise man to achieve perfection with His help.
Dlaczego należy się bać? O uczuciach towarzyszących epidemii i zaleceniach w czasie jej trwania według „Przestrogi i lekarstwa na choroby z zarazy morowego powietrza pochodzące” Franciszka Ksawerego Ryszkowskiego
Authors:   Uniwersytet Śląski w Katowicach, Polska, Kocela Weronika
Published: December 2021

The article analyzes the text of one of the many medical handbooks published in Poland in the second half of the 18th century. It concerns emotions and feelings accompanying a person during an epidemic, as well as problems and difficulties that he had to overcome. It also introduces the commonly functioning opinions of doctors about the plague and ways to fight it. The text should also be considered as an attempt to explain the reactions, behaviors and adopting specific attitudes – both of the sick and those managing the specific organization of social life during an epidemic.
Podmioty moralności. Studium porównawcze opowieści o mordercach („African Psycho’ Alaina Mabanckou i „American Psycho” Breta Eastona Ellisa)
Authors:   Uniwersytet Wrocławski, Polska, Poręba Izabela
Published: December 2021

The article is a comparative study of two stories about murderers, characters of the novels “African Psycho” (2003) by Alain Mabanckou and “American Psycho” (1991) by Bret Easton Ellis. The similarities in the construction of the main characters – fascination with popular culture, brutality and vulgarity, identity problems and interest in famous serial killers – are evidence of Mabanckou’s intertextual play with a popular American novel. The essence of this play, however, is rather the moments of distinguishing and negotiating with the original text, among them: cultural, social, economic and political differences in the construction of the world presented, different class positions and motivations for the actions of the murderers. The article investigates also the main characters’ capability to be subjects of moral judgements. Their specific mental state (biographical discontinuity, isolation, desire for evil) is evidence of „depowerment”. Therefore, their capacity for self-understanding and ethical responsibility is questioned.
Wieloimiennna kraina wygnania Edwarda Zymana
Authors:   Uniwersytet Rzeszowski, Polska, Dłuski Stanisław
Published: December 2021

The article is an attempt to discuss the most important issues raised in the publication titled “Światy poetyckie Edwarda Zymana”, edited by Marian Kisiel and Bożena Szałasta-Rogowska. The author refreshes the readers’ memory of Edward Zyman, a poet, prose writer, journalist, and literary critic, and then briefly discusses the articles included in the book. New contexts allow for a reinterpretation of Zyman’s work and enrich the studies on Polish émigré literature.
Pastoralno-teologiczne aspekty straty dziecka poronionego i martwo urodzonego
Authors: Dziedzic Jan
Published: December 2021

Wyzwania pastoralne stojące przed duszpasterzami wobec umierania, śmierci i żałoby po stracie bliskiej osoby są szczególnie trudne, gdy dotyczą straty dziecka. Książka ks. dr. hab. Jana Dziedzica, prof. UPJPII, pt. Pastoralno-teologiczne aspekty straty dziecka poronionego i martwo urodzonego wpisuje się w tę właśnie problematykę badawczą. Podjęta w publikacji tematyka jest aktualna i oczekiwana w środowisku pastoralistów oraz duszpasterzy. W dotychczasowej literaturze brak jest bowiem całościowego omówienia zagadnienia śmierci dzieci w okresie prenatalnym i pastoralnego towarzyszenia jego rodzicom i rodzinie. Problematyka opracowania jest nowatorska i aktualna, wpisująca się we współczesne potrzeby i oczekiwania chrześcijan, jak również ludzi niewierzących.
A differential and diagnostic significance of monocytosis in treatment of moderate COVID-19 forms
Authors: Shperling M. I. , Shperling E. A. , Kovalev A. V. , Vlasov A. A. , Polyakov A. S. , Noskov Ya. A. , Morozov A. D. , Merzlyakov V. S. , Zvyagintsev D. P. , Tishko V. V.
Published: December 2021

Despite the relatively rare comorbidity with bacterial infections, in most cases treatment of COVID-19-associated pneumonia is accompanied by empirical antibiotic therapy. In addition, the occurrence of leukocytosis in response to glucocorticosteroid (GCS) therapy is often perceived as comorbid bacterial flora and is a reason for initiating antibiotic therapy. Therefore, an urgent task is to properly interpret leukocytosis in response to GCS therapy in COVID-19. The aim of the study was to examine dynamic changes in count of venous blood leukocytes, neutrophils and monocytes in patients with moderate COVID-19 after systemic GCS. We analyzed parameters of complete blood count in 154 patients with verified moderate COVID-19, at the Temporary Infectious Diseases Hospital, the “Patriot” Park of the Moscow Region. The comparison group (I) consisted of 128 patients without clinical signs of bacterial infection and leukocytosis observed on admission, who were prescribed GCS therapy. The control group (II) consisted of 26 subjects showing on admission signs of bacterial infection — a cough with purulent sputum combined with neutrophilic leukocytosis. The dynamics in venous blood cell count was assessed in group I of patients before the onset, 3 and 6 days after beginning GCS therapy. We also compared count of leukocytes, neutrophils and monocytes between patients with developed leukocytosis in group I vs. group II. As a result, an increased count of leukocytes, neutrophils and monocytes was revealed according to assessing complete blood count test in patients from group I on days 3 and 6 of ongoing GCS therapy. All patients with developed leukocytosis after GCS admission (103 subjects) had no clinical signs of bacterial infection. Patients with developed leukocytosis from group I had increased count of monocytes (0.90 (0.84; 1.02) on day 3 after GCS onset and 0.94 (0.87; 1.26) on day 6 of GCS) compared with group II (0.61 [0.50; 0.71]), p 0.001. The inter-group count of leukocytes and neutrophils did not differ. Monocytosis after GCS therapy may serve as a differential diagnostic criterion to distinguish between glucocorticoid-induced leukocytosis and comorbid bacterial infection. This may be one of the factors influencing a decision to prescribe antibiotic therapy.
Assessing immunogenicity and protectiveness of the vaccinia virus LIVP-GFP in three laboratory animal models
Authors: Shchelkunov S. N. , Sergeev A. A. , Yakubitskyi S. N. , Titova K. A. , Pyankov S. A.
Published: December 2021

Smallpox eradication and lack of adequate animal model for smallpox infection underlies a necessity to assess immunogenic and protective properties of genetic engineering-created live attenuated smallpox vaccines in several animal models of orthopoxviral infections. Here we compared immunogenic and protective properties of the recombinant vaccinia virus (VACV) LIVP-GFP intradermally (i.d.) inoculated to mice, guinea pigs and rabbits. LIVP-GFP immunization in all animal species was applied at dose of 2 × 104 or 2 × 106 PFU. Control animals were injected with saline. Blood sampling was performed on day 28 after virus LIVP-GFP or saline inoculation. Blood samples were taken intravitally from the retro-orbital venous sinus in mice, heart in guinea pigs or marginal ear vein in rabbits. Serum samples were isolated by precipitating blood cells via centrifugation. The serum anti-VACV IgG titers were determined by ELISA. On day 30 post-immunization animals were intranasally challenged with lethal dose of host specific orthopoxvirus species. Mice were infected by cowpox virus (CPXV) strain GRI-90 at dose 68 LD50, guinea pigs – by VACV GPA at dose 56 LD50, rabbits — by VACV HB-92 at dose 100 LD50. All animals in control group died afterwards, whereas all animals immunized by attenuated recombinant virus LIVP-GFP at dose 2 × 106 PFU survived. In case of the LIVP-GFP immunization at dose 2 × 104 PFU, 88% of mice, 67% of rabbits and 50% of guinea pigs survived after being challenged with species-specific CPXV, VACV HB-92, and VACV GPA. ELISA data for the blood serum samples revealed a correlation between level of VACV-specific antibodies and level of protection in animal species. Based on the data obtained, it could be concluded that all three “animal–orthopoxvirus” models allow to provide with a proper evaluation of immunogenicity and protectiveness for generated modern attenuated vaccines against smallpox and other orthopoxviral human infections. Upon that, it was shown that BALB/c mouse strain was the most convenient investigational host species.