bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O reordenamento da rede escolar de Fortaleza no período pós-LDB
Authors: Vidal Eloisa Maia , Do Amaral Soares Erineuda
Published: January 2022

O artigo analisa o processo de reordenamento da rede escolar municipal de Fortaleza, no período pós-LDB. O estudo é de natureza quantitativa, com uso de dados do Censo da Educação Básica e utiliza pesquisa documental para ampliar o entendimento. A análise mostra que o reordenamento da rede municipal pode ser dividida em três etapas: 1996 – 2006, em que houve predomínio da decisão de municipalização do ensino fundamental por parte do governo do estado; 2007 – 2012, com a desaceleração do processo de municipalização, criação do Fundeb e Ideb e 2013 – 2019, com especialização de parte das escolas, que passam a oferecer anos iniciais ou anos finais do ensino fundamental. Essa mudança de paradigma ocorrida a partir de 2013 adota como princípio a racionalidade técnica e a gestão por resultados e tem como consequência o aumento do número de alunos que usam transporte escolar. Conclui-se pela necessidade de estudos adicionais para aprofundar o tema, levando em conta outros indicadores educacionais.
The Collective Unconscious and the Media Sphere
Authors: Kazlev M. Alan
Published: January 2022

A synthesis of Marshall McLuhan's typology of media, Carl Jung's theory of the Collective Unconscious, Teilhard de Chardin's Evolution, and Rudolf Steiner's Anthroposophy is used to explain the current crisis of Western Civilisation, as well as suggest possible responses. McLuhan described the transition from print to electronic (and now digital) media. Jung explored the collective unconscious and the power of the archetypes. Teilhard posited three evolutionary spheres; here, a further stage is added, the Psychosphere, equated with the Jungian unconscious. And Steiner referred to a threefold polarity of spiritual hierarchies that influence human consciousness and society. Conspiracism and the disinformation crisis comes about through archetypes working through the lower psychecological zones. Orientation to positive epigenetic, imaginal, and divine realities, with their high degree of holism and mythopoetic creativity, offers an alternative to both the paranoia of conspiracism and the reductionism of materialism.
Preparation of a Novel Cement from Red Mud and Limestone
Authors: Nguyen Hoc Thang , Do Quang Minh
Published: January 2022

Red mud (RM) is an industrial waste obtained from the Bayer process which is usually discharged into marine or disposed into a landfill causing pollution for the surrounding water, air, and soils. Thus, disposal of RM is an environmental concern, and it should be recycled effectively. Because RM consists of iron- and aluminum-rich phases, it is possible to be processed into cementitious material and utilized for construction purposes. This research fabricated a type of cement from the mixture of RM and limestone. The mixture was sintered at temperature of 1180 °C to obtain the clinker of the novel hydraulic cement with C2S, C3A, and C4AF minerals. In which, C2S, C3A, and C4AF are respectively belite, alite, and tetra-calcium aluminoferrite compounds that are characteristic hydraulic minerals of Portland cement clinker. The specifications of this cement were tested and evaluated in this study such as chemical and mineralogical compositions, fineness, specific surface area, mechanical strength after 3, 7, and 28 days.
Optimal Replacement of Granite Modified with Ife Iron and Steel Slag on Strength Properties of Concrete
Authors: Adedokun Solomon I. , Anifowose Mukaila A.
Published: January 2022

Steel is produced from iron ore and purification of metal scrap, leading to manufacture of hundreds of tonnes of steel slag each year. This study investigated the optimum replacement of granite with Ife Iron and Steel Nigeria Limited (ISN) slag that produce maximum Compressive Strength (CS), Split Tensile Strength (STS) and Flexural Strength (FS) of concrete using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) from Design Expert Version 7.0. The outcome of the study showed that the optimum replacement of granite with ISN was 28.85% ISN at 0.47 W/C.
Production and Characterization of Pulp from Banana Pseudo Stem for Paper Making via Soda Anthraquinone Pulping Process
Authors: Melesse Emiru Yidnekachew , Bedru Tesfaye Kassaw , Meshesha Beteley Tekola
Published: January 2022

The need for pulp and paper currently in the whole world has become shooting up massively. The generation of the pulp, as well as paper from woody materials, has a challenge due to deforestation, huge chemical and energy consumptions. Now, an alternative source for paper is lignocelluloses wastes, because of low cost, low energy, and chemical consumption. Among them, the banana pseudostem was best for the input of pulp and paper production. This investigation was on the production and characterization of pulp from Banana Pseudo Stem for Paper Making via Soda Anthraquinone pulping process. The amount of cellulose (41.45%), ash (12.4%), hemicellulose (23.37%), extractive (12.72%), and lignin (10.46%) contents were obtained at the initial compositional evaluation of the pseudostem. It has excellent fiber length (1.75mm), fiber diameter (22.15μm), an acceptable Runkle ratio (0.55), and flexibility coefficient (159.64). The effect of temperature (130,140 and 150 °C), cooking time (45, 60, and 75 minutes), the concentration of soda (10, 12.5, and 15%), were examined. The maximum pulp yield and kappa number was 36.7% and 22.8 respectively obtained at 10% of soda concentration, at 150 °C, and 63 minutes of cooking time from oven-dried raw material. The produced paper from the banana pseudostem has a tensile index, tearing index, smoothness, and porosity were 78.75 Nm/g, 19.1 mN.m2/g, 500-530μm, and 50 sec/100ml air respectively. This study indicates that high strength mechanical property and good surface properties paper can be produced from banana pseudostem pulp with a more environmentally friendly pulping process.
Inorganic Polymeric Materials Based on Natural Silicate and Aluminosilicate Raw Materials
Authors: Sahakyan Emma , Arzumanyan Avetik , Muradyan Nelli
Published: January 2022

The prospects of implementing the mechanochemical activation method of volcanic silicate and aluminosilicate rocks - perlites, tuffs, pumice, etc. are being considered for the production of a wide range of building materials using energy-conserving technologies. The thermodynamic and kinetic parameters of interaction in the systems of aluminosilicate – NaOH have been presented, indicating low-temperature sintering of volcanic rocks with sodium hydroxide. According to the degree of activity, the rocks have the following order: perlites, tuffs, obsidian, microcline. Kinetic parameters are presented: concentration, temperature, conversion degree, reaction rate constant, time of complete reaction and product layer thickness.
Modification of Irind Mine Pumice Surface
Authors: Kalantaryan Marine , Chilingaryan Nikolay , Meymaryan Armine
Published: January 2022

In the last decade, a continuous increasing research activity is focused on the surface modification of natural porous materials for the efficient removal of oil contaminants from water. A continuous in-situ oil/water separation technique for oil spill cleanup had been designed using surface modified Irind mine pumice as a sorbent. Irind mine pumice is an aluminosilicate rock, with well-developed porosity, mechanical strength, high buoyancy, chemically inert and eco-friendly, therefore it must exhibit certain water-and oil absorption capacities. The modified pumice absorbs a broad variety of oils and organic solvents with high oil absorption capacity and negligible water take-up at both static and dynamic conditions. Irind mine pumice have been used with grain sizes ranging from 2.5 ... 5.0 mm. Oligomethylhydride siloxane is used as a modifier.
Comparative Analysis of the Use of Thermal Insulation Materials Depending on Climatic Conditions and Comfort Microclimate Supply Systems
Authors: Egnatosyan Siranush , Hakobyan David , Sargsyan Spartak
Published: January 2022

The use of thermal insulation materials to reduce the heating and cooling demand of the building in order to provide energy efficiency is the main solution. But there is a wide range of these products on the market and, therefore, the choice and application of these materials is a rather difficult task, since many factors must be taken into account, such as environmental safety, cost, durability, climatic conditions, application technology, etc. Basically, comfort microclimate systems are designed based on normative standards, where the thickness of the thermal insulation material is selected depending on the required heat transfer resistance. These values are calculated taking into account climate conditions, that is the duration of the heating period, as well as taking into account sanitary and hygienic requirements. This article discusses the thermal performance of building materials, and also provides a comparative analysis of the use of thermal insulation materials depending on climatic factors and on the system providing comfort microclimate. Based on the calculations by mathematical modeling and optimization, it is advisable to choose the thickness of the thermal insulation, taking into account the capital and operating costs of the comfort microclimate systems. Comparing the optimization data with the normative one, the energy efficiency of the building increases by 50-70% when applying the optimal thickness of the thermal insulation layer, and when the thermal insulation layer is increased, the thermal performance of the enclosing structures has improved by 30%, which contributes to energy saving.
Preparation of TiO2 Coatings on Carbon Fibers
Authors: Gallyamova Rida , Safiullin Rustam , Dokichev Vladimir , Musin Fanil F.
Published: January 2022

Carbon fibers have been TiO2 coated. Previously, the carbon fiber surface has been heat-treated to remove the sizing. The TiO2 layer has been formed on the fiber surface using the sol-gel technique by immersion in a solution. After coating, the samples have been dried at room temperature and annealed at 500 °C in air for 30 minutes. The phase composition of the coating obtained has been studied using X-ray diffraction. X-ray diffraction analysis of the coating and sol has shown that the rutile phase and the average size of TiO2 crystallites grow with an increase in the annealing temperature. The results of studying TiO2 coating antioxidative properties within 500-800 °C are given. Studying the morphology of the TiO2 coating on the fiber surface and the burnout rate (weight change) have shown that the coating exhibits good oxidation resistance up to 600 °C.
Experimental Studies of Radiation-Protective Properties of a Modified Titanium Hydride
Authors: Karnauhov A.A. , Yastrebinskii R.N.
Published: January 2022

The results of experimental studies of the protective properties of titanium hydride with respect to neutron and gamma radiation in order to determine the optimal conditions for their use in the composition of the structural radiation protection of the nuclear reactor are presented. The weakening of the basic functionals in the thickness of protection, including the density of fast, intermediate and thermal neutrons, and the dose rate of gamma radiation is established. The functions of weakening the density of neutron flow and the dose rate of gamma radiation are measured in the conditions of "barrier" geometry. Determination of the protective properties of the structure was carried out when the modified titanium hydride fraction was placed in aluminum containers with a filling coefficient of a volume of container 0.63. The relaxation lengths for all neutron groups are close and on average are 9.8 cm. The functions of weakening the dose rate of gamma radiation of point sources Cs-137 and Co-60 are exponential. The weakening of radiation occurs with a constant relaxation length. For energy 0.661 MeV, the relaxation length is 7.1 cm, for energy 1.25 MeV, the relaxation length is equal to 10.1 cm. On the basis of the experimental studies, the high efficiency of the modified fraction of titanium hydride was confirmed during its use in protecting nuclear power plants.
Phase Equilibrium and Synthesis in Ionic Melts of the System Na2WO4-K2WO4-Pb2WO4
Authors: Kochkarov Zhamal A. , Baysangurova A.A. , Bisergaeva Radima A. , Isaev M.M. , Khasanov A.I.
Published: January 2022

Interest in a comprehensive study of lead tungstate single crystals is due to its scintillation properties [1-5]. It was found that lead tungstate occupies an exceptional position in the family of tungstates with a scheelite structure. Lead tungstate single crystal is a scintillation material [1] used in the LHC electromagnetic calorimeter and photon detector in the ALICE experiment at CERN [1, 2]. Now it can be said unequivocally that lead tungstate is the most promising scintillation material in the next decade.
Process Relationship in High-Stress Friction Coupled with Complex Shaped Counterbody and Friction Stir Welding Al-Mg-Sc-Zr Alloy
Authors: Chumaevskii Andrey , Gurianov Denis , Gusarova Anastasiya , Zykova Anna , Panfilov Aleksandr , Knyazhev Evgeny , Beloborodov Vladimir , Zhukov Leonid
Published: January 2022

Model research tests of plastic deformation, fragmentation and flow of aluminum alloy material of Al-Mg-Sc-Zr system under high loaded friction in pair with a steel counterbody of a complex shape and comparison of the obtained result with the structure formed by friction stir welding have been carried out. The conducted studies show that the structure formed by extrusion of the material from the friction zone and its compaction in the channel of the counterbody is, in general, close in structure to the structure formed by friction stir welding of similar material. The distinguishing features of the structure formed in the model experiments on friction include the introduction into the stirring zone of material with deformed large-crystal structure, increased grain size of the stirring zone, the presence of defects and differences in the geometry of the stirring zone.
Research of Post-Treatment Effect on Structure of Alloys Manufactured Using Additive Technologies
Authors: Remshev Evgeny , Ignatenko Vitaly , Voinash Sergey , Teterina Irina , Malikov Vladimir , Sokolova Victoria Alexandrovna , Ivanov Andrei
Published: January 2022

The effect of cold isostatic pressing of EP648 alloy after selective laser sintering is researched. The effect of cold isostatic pressing on the porosity of the structure of a material manufactured by additive technologies (AT) has been established. It is proposed to consider cold isostatic pressing as a method of subsequent treatment of products ("post-treatment") made by selective laser sintering.
FEM-Based Comparison of Mandrel Wear Resulting from Elongation of Pipes Manufactured from Various Materials on a Two-Roll Screw Rolling Mill
Authors: Nguyen Quang , Aleshchenko Alexander Sergeevich
Published: January 2022

The present article discusses the cylindrical mandrel wear change during rolling using MISIS - 130 D mill depending on the type of rolled billets materials used. The research on the mandrel wear of the screw rolling mill during pipes elongation was carried out using the finite element method (FEM). The results of the wear modeling showed that the depth of the metal removed on the mandrel surface during stainless steel pipes elongation was higher as compared to alloyed and carbon steel pipes. The significant wear of the mandrel during stainless steel pipe rolling can be explained by the rise in the applied metal force resulting from the introduction of alloying components such as chromium and nickel into rolled billets materials. Consequently, the obtained modeling results can allow predicting the service life of working tools.
Antimicrobial Effect of Polyphenols Enriched Fractions of Moringa oleifera Lam. Leaves at the Flowering Stage Against Microbial Strains Causing Oral and Wound Infections
Authors: Jayasuriya W. J. A. B. N. , Jayaweera N. D. , Adurapotha H. , Meedin F. D. , Uluwaduge D. I. , Arawwawala L. D. A. M.
Published: January 2022

Purpose: Various parts of Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae) are used in traditional systems of medicine. This study investigates the antimicrobial activity of the crude aqueous extract and polyphenol enriched fractions of M. oleifera leaves at the flowering stage against microbial strains causing oral and wound infections.
Methods: Polyphenol enriched fractions (hydroalcoholic extract, methanol fresh leaves extract, methanol dry leaves extract and decoction) were prepared using four different methods and total polyphenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) of the extracts were determined. Crude aqueous extract and the fractions were tested against ATCC reference strains of Escherichia coli and Candida albicans (oral pathogens) and Streptococcus aureus and Staphylococcus pyogenes (wound pathogens) using agar well diffusion method. Gentamycin and clotrimazole were used as the positive controls for bacteria and fungi respectively and distilled water was used as the negative control.
Results: Methanol dry leaves extract demonstrated highest values of TPC (11.92 ±0.39 mg GAE/g) and TFC (41.68±0.82 mg QE/g). Each polyphenol fraction demonstrated antibacterial activity against E. coli, S. aureus and S. pyogenes at concentrations of 500 - 1000 mg/ml. Hydro-alcoholic and methanol (fresh leaves) extracts demonstrated antifungal activity against C. albicans. The crude aqueous extract exhibited dose dependent antibacterial activity against S. aureus. All extracts demonstrated less antibacterial activity against S. pyogenes compared to S. aureus.
Conclusion: Polyphenol rich fractions of M. oleifera leaves at the flowering stage possessed antimicrobial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, S. pyogenes and C. albicans.
The Value Relevance of Financial Statements and Stock Price Returns: With Reference to the Companies at Colombo Stock Exchange
Authors: Lakmal S. M. D. , Swarnapali R. M. N.C.
Published: January 2022

Purpose: The study aimed to examine whether the financial statements of the listed companies at the Colombo Stock Exchange are value-relevant and what impact they have on stock price returns. Methodology: A model based on red flag ratios that have been proven to be possible fraud indicators of falsified financial statements in various contexts was developed and employed. Furthermore, the accruals quality was measured by discretionary and non-discretionary accruals and estimated using the Modified Jones Model (MJM). Data were collected from a sample of 91 non-financial listed companies in Sri Lanka from 2014 to 2018, and panel regression analysis was utilized to achieve the study objectives. Findings: The majority of the ratios indicated poor financial performance and condition. In contrast, some ratios yielded contradicting results, attesting that financial information disseminated by financial statements of the Sri Lankan context is less value-relevant. The findings revealed that ratios of net profit to total assets and receivables to sales ratios negatively influence stock returns. The ratios of net profits to sales and working capital to total assets, on the other hand, have a positive impact. Moreover, both forms of accruals play a vital role in explaining stock price movements, with non-discretionary accruals becoming increasingly essential. The findings show that earnings variability is determined by both company conditions and managerial interventions, with business conditions appearing to be more critical. Originality / Value: The study contributes to expanding existing literature by investigating the issues of value relevance of financial statements within the Sri Lankan context, incorporating both red flags and accrual components.
Reduced avian predation on an ultraviolet-fluorescing caterpillar model
Authors: Czarnecki Chapin , Manderino Rea , Parry Dylan
Published: January 2022

Many caterpillars exhibit patterns of ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence, although its purpose is unclear. We used realistic plasticine models of a fluorescing caterpillar species, the Polyphemus moth, Antheraea polyphemus (Lepidoptera; Saturniidae), adorned with fluorescent paint treatments and unpainted controls to quantify bird predation in two hardwood forested regions of New York State, United States of America. In separate field studies, significantly more birds struck deployed model caterpillars that had no UV fluorescence. More strikes on unpainted and clear paint treatments suggest paint itself did not impact predation, whereas similar predation attempts on bird and human-visible fluorescent dummies suggest that UV fluorescence and not UV reflectance was responsible for the observed effect. A second study found the dummy’s location on the tree was also important, but the low number of bird strikes limited analyses. Although our results do not identify a mechanism, fluorescence may function to deter or avoid predation. Our study contributes to a growing body of work investigating the importance of UV patterns in arthropods and highlights a potentially fruitful area of future research on predator–prey relations.
LA TRANSIZIONE FALLITA. DIECI ANNI DI POLITICA MOZAMBICANA (2009-2019)
Authors: Bussotti Luca
Published: January 2022

Per diverso tempo, dopo la firma degli Accordi Generali di Pace (AGP) a Roma, il 4 ottobre del 1992, fra il governo mozambicano guidato dal FRELIMO (Fronte di Liberazione del Mozambico) e la RENAMO (Resistenza Nazionale del Mozambico), una buona parte della comunità internazionale e accademica aveva considerato il Mozambico come un raro caso di successo in Africa. La realtà si è rivelata assai più complessa rispetto alle previsioni iniziali, nonostante l’illusione di un paese pacificato e sulla via di una democrazia stabile sia stata propagandata a lungo, anche a causa di un incremento medio annuo del PIL pari al 7,2% fra il 2000 e il 20161. Questo studio offre una riflessione su come la “transizione” dalla Prima alla Seconda Repubblica – ossia da uno Stato socialista con un regime a partito unico a uno democratico e multipartitico, non abbia seguito il percorso che era stato auspicato e previsto durante tutti gli anni Novanta e per buona parte del nuovo secolo. Al contrario, vi è stata una deriva autoritaria associata a nuovi conflitti interni. Non si è trattato di un fenomeno improvviso, ma costante, a partire dal 2009 circa fino a oggi, come tutti i principali indicatori su democrazia, libertà di espressione, diritti umani evidenziano.
Guida alla politica mediorientale
Authors: Di Peri Rosita , Mazzucotelli Francesco
Published: January 2022

Non disponibile.
Relationship with Maternal Gut Bacteria Dysbiosis and Gestational Weight Variation
Authors: Yadufashije Callixte , Grace Ishimwe Gatete , Mwanzia Lydia , Muhimpundu Liliane , Munyeshyaka Emmanuel , Mucumbitsi Joseph , Sangano Georges Bahati , Habyarimana Thierry
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

Dysbiosis is often used to describe the state where there is a disruption in the balance of organisms in the microbiota. Dysbiosis of gut microbiota has been associated with disorders within and without the gut. This study aimed to identify the microbiota composition and to determine the association between gut microbiota and gestation weight amongst women attending Muhoza health Center.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study design was used where ninety stool samples were collected amongst pregnant women attending antenatal click of Muhoza health center. The samples were transported to Ines microbiology laboratory for microbiological analysis. Laboratory techniques including culturing, gram stain, and biochemical tests were performed for gut microbial identification. Analysis of variance was used to test the mean bacterial difference in pregnancy trimesters, a t-test was performed to test for the mean bacterial difference in the gestational weight gain (GWG) and gestational weight loss groups, and Chi-square test was used to test for association with gut bacteria imbalance and the gestational weight variation.

Results:

Lactobacillus 23.28% was the most predominant observed in the gut. The gut bacterial variation throughout pregnancy trimesters was observed (F = 4.437904575, P = 0.022909599). The gut bacterial mean difference was statistically significant in the weight gain and weight loss (t = 3.45, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.1487–0.5154, P = 0.005428) in the GWG and loss. There was statistical association with gut microbiota dysbiosis and gestational weight amongst pregnant women with Escherichia coli (P = 0.030197, 95% CI: 0.0741–0.4611, x2 = 7), Pseudomonas (P = 0.018316, 95% CI: 0.0941–0.4781, x2 = 8), and Citrobacter (P = 0.00046, 95% CI: 0.7855–0.9014, x2 = 15.38). The overall association (P = 0.001869, 95% CI: 0.9697–0.9868, x2 = 46.19) was statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Gut bacterial alteration contributes to gestational either weight gain or loss. During antenatal care, gut bacteria should be tested to maintain the gestational weight.
Association between LPA rs6415084 and rs6919346 Variants and Serum Lipoprotein(A) Levels amongst Apparently Healthy Individuals
Authors: Roby Dyna Ann , Bhandary Roopa Rani , Shetty Sukanya , Kulkarni Vineet , Roby Calvin
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) synthesised by the liver consists of low-density lipoprotein which contains apoB-100 linked to apolipoprotein(a) (apo[a]) by disulphide bridge. LPA gene codes for highly polymorphic apo(a). The serum Lp(a) levels are highly varied amongst individuals and ethnicities, which could be attributed to the genetic polymorphisms present in LPA gene. Hence, this study aimed to analyse the association between LPA genetic variants, rs6415084 and rs6919346, with serum Lp(a) levels in apparently healthy subjects.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 56 apparently healthy subjects were recruited after obtaining informed consent. Serum Lp(a) levels were measured by immunoturbidimetric assay, and the genotyping of the variants was determined by the real-time polymerase chain reaction. Spearman's correlation test was used to find the association between single-nucleotide polymorphism and serum Lp(a). P < 0.05 is considered statistically significant.

Results:

The median level of serum Lp(a) amongst the study subjects was found to be 26.75 mg/dL, which is higher in males (35.50 mg/dL) when compared to females (21.85 mg/dL). The analysis of LPA gene variant rs6415084 showed 58.9% of the subjects with computed tomography (CT) genotype, 17.85% with CC and 5.3% with TT genotype. In the case of the rs6919346 variant, 80% of the subjects had CC genotype, 8.9% with CT and 5.3% with TT genotype.

Conclusion:

Overall, a weak significant association was observed between heterozygous alleles of LPA gene variant rs6415084 with increased serum Lp(a) level.
Evaluation of L-Platelet-Rich Fibrin in Non- and Post-COVID-19 Patients and its Role in Periodontal Regeneration – A Microscopic Analysis
Authors: Panchal Anita , Khan Faizan Ather , Khan Ather Hussain , Lakshmi Praveena , Pandya Maitri K , Pandya Rachana K.
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a term for autologous platelet concentrates generated from the patient's own blood (PRF). PRF and its derivatives (L-PRF, A-PRF, i-PRF) have been used for delicate tissue restoration in a variety of dental procedures. The quantity of leucocytes and other growth factors in PRF of healthy and post-COVID-19 people differs, according to the literature, and these influence wound tissue healing.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty healthy volunteers and 30 post-COVID-19 volunteers (age range 24–60 years). For PRF preparation, a REMI PR-23 table centrifuge and a blood collection kit consisting of a 19G needle and 10 ml blood collection tubes were used. The analysis was performed by dividing the subject groups into three test groups (Group 1 – post-COVID-19, 0–30 days; Group 2 – post-COVID-19, 31–90 days; Group 3 – normal patients). Group 1, 2 and 3 consisted of 23, 7 and 30 patients, respectively.

Results:

The result was statistically significant between the normal and posted COVID-19 patient groups (P = 0.00). Not much statistical significance was found between post-COVID-19 patients from 0–30 days to 31–90 days (P = 0.370). Considering the limitations of the study, our findings imply that typical patients' PRF clots or membranes comprise the majority of platelets and half of the leucocytes present in the first blood collection.

Conclusion:

Within the fibrin network, platelet growth factors are stuck, but the PRF clot or membrane of the post-COVID-19 patients contains a reduced/negligible number of leucocytes. Thus, the growth factors which is released are also less. Therefore, usage of PRF in post-COVID-19 patients for periodontal regenerative therapies should be avoided, at least for the first 60 days, to replenish the reduced leucocyte count and growth factors in the blood.
From azoospermia to macrozoospermia, a phenotypic continuum due to mutations in the ZMYND15 gene
Authors: Kherraf Zine-Eddine , Cazin Caroline , Lestrade Florence , Muronova Jana , Coutton Charles , Arnoult Christophe , Thierry-Mieg Nicolas , Ray Pierre F
Published: January 2022

Thanks to tremendous advances in sequencing technologies and in particular to whole exome sequencing (WES), many genes have now been linked to severe sperm defects. A precise genetic diagnosis is obtained for a minority of patients and only for the most severe defects like azoospermia or macrozoospermia which is very often due to defects in the aurora kinase C (AURKC) gene. Here, we studied a subject with a severe oligozoospermia and a phenotypic diagnosis of macrozoospermia. AURKC analysis did not reveal any deleterious variant. WES was then initiated which permitted to identify a homozygous loss of function variant in the zinc finger MYND-type containing 15 (ZMYND15) gene. ZMYND15 has been described to serve as a switch for haploid gene expression, and mice devoid of ZMYND15 were shown to be sterile due to nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). In man, ZMYND15 has been associated with NOA and severe oligozoospermia. We confirm here that the presence of a bi-allelic ZMYND15 variant induces a severe oligozoospermia. In addition, we show that severe oligozoospermia can be associated macrozoospermia, and that a phenotypic misdiagnosis is possible, potentially delaying the genetic diagnosis. In conclusion, genetic defects in ZMYND15 can induce complete NOA or severe oligozoospermia associated with a very severe teratozoospermia. In our experience, severe oligozoospermia is often associated with severe teratozoospermia and can sometimes be misinterpreted as macrozoospermia or globozoospermia. In these instances, specific AURKC or dpy-19 like 2 (DPY19L2) diagnosis is usually negative and we recommend the direct use of a pan-genomic techniques such as WES.
To Not Lose the Loss of Silhouette Sign
Authors: Mahendra M. , Gandhi Preethi Rajeshwari , Siddesh N. , Madhumathi R.
Published: January 2022

The silhouette sign is a commonly used radiological terminology, useful in diagnosis. The term is a misnomer and the loss of silhouette sign is what is to be mentioned. Whenever there is a loss of silhouette sign in a chest radiograph the differential diagnosis of consolidation, pleural effusion, collapse. etc., needs to be considered.
Supplement use pre-conceptually and in the first trimester of pregnancy in Birmingham, UK
Authors: Khattabi Marwa , Jolly Kate
Published: January 2022

Background/aim

Sufficient levels of vitamins in the periconceptual period are important for embryonic and fetal development. It is well known that periconceptual folic acid supplementation prevents neural tube defects; however, evidence suggests that periconceptual supplement uptake is suboptimal. The aim of the study was to investigate the uptake of periconceptual supplements in women. The secondary aims were to characterize preconceptual supplement users by age, parity, level of education, ethnicity, first language, and presence of chronic health problems and to identify types of supplements used.

Patients and methods

This was a descriptive cross-sectional survey. A total of 180 women aged 16 years or older in their first trimester of pregnancy attending for their dating scan in Birmingham, UK. Percentages and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of periconceptual supplement users were calculated. Statistical tests were carried out to examine the association of age, ethnicity, first language, parity, level of education, and presence of chronic health problems with preconceptual supplement use. Information about types of supplements used was also gathered.

Results

Supplements were taken preconceptually by 39.0% (95% CI: 32.1–46.2) of participants. However, 11.5% started using supplements in the first trimester of pregnancy, and 89 (49.4%, 95% CI: 42.2 to 56.7) participants had not used any supplements. Disparities in the use of preconceptual supplements were seen across a range of characteristics, although none of the differences were statistically significant.

Conclusion

Despite recommendations, periconceptual supplement uptake remains suboptimal. Strategies to improve supplement uptake might include active participation from primary health care professionals targeting all women of reproductive age, education campaigns, and population-based food folic acid fortification.
Mammary not otherwise specified-type sarcoma with CD10 expression
Authors: Sucharita Soumya , Sahu Nageswar , Giri Ranjana , Sahu Subrat Ku
Published: January 2022

Although mammary carcinoma is one of the most common malignancies among women, sarcoma taking origin from the breast tissue is extremely rare. Most of the mammary sarcomas represent a specific entity such as malignant phyllodes tumor, liposarcoma, or angiosarcoma. However, some cases do not fit into any specific category of sarcoma. These cases are diagnosed with breast sarcoma–not otherwise specified (NOS) type. They constantly express CD10 and are called as NOS type sarcoma with CD10 expression. Herein, we report a case of primary mammary sarcoma-NOS type with CD10 expression in an 80-year-old male. It was misdiagnosed with carcinoma breast on fine-needle aspiration. However, on histology, it was a high-grade tumor without any specific differentiation. Immunohistochemical results showed diffuse strong expression of vimentin and CD10, whereas pancytokeratin, desmin, and CD34 were negative. These tumors are considered a variant of sarcoma with myoepithelial differentiation.
Nephron-Sparing Surgery in Nonsyndromic Unilateral Wilms' tumor
Authors: Sarin Yogesh Kumar
Published: January 2022

Background:

Unilateral Wilms' tumor (uWT) is the most common renal malignancy in the pediatric population. Although the onset of surgical intervention like radical nephrectomy (RN) has substantially reduced the mortality rate, recent evidence has raised concerns regarding several postoperative complications associated with this procedure. Nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) has been reported to avoid such postoperative complications and have high technical success rate. However, not much literature is available comparing the efficacy of RN and NSS for managing nonsyndromic uWT, which makes it less acceptable globally.

Materials and Methods and Results:

A systematic identification of the literature was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines on four academic databases: MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, and CENTRAL. Out of 1017 records, 20 manuscripts including 312 patients were included in the review; 4 patients treated by the author (unpublished data) have also been included. The studies included 7 retrospective case series with no comparison group, 4 retrospective case series with comparison group, 4 retrospective series with a cursory mention of NSS in uWT, 2 case reports, 1 protocolized prospective trial with comparison group, 1 administrative database analysis with comparison group, and 1 randomized controlled study. In all, 316 patients with nonsyndromic uWT were studied. The pretherapy volumes of the WT ranged from 2.4 to 640 ml. Majority of them were administered preoperative chemotherapy. About half of the patients (n = 159) (50.3%) were Stage I tumors. Stage II, III, and IV tumors were seen in 23 (7.3%), 20 (6.3%), and 3 (1%) patients. Stage was not specified in 111 (35.1%) patients. Majority of them were “intermediate risk” WT. All these tumors were nonanaplastic. Surgical margins were reported positive in 13 (4%) patients. Overall and event-free survivals were 100% in most of the studies; only handful of relapses were noted in this systematic review.

Conclusions:

This qualitative systematic review recommends the use of NSS for nonsyndromic uWT. The procedure accounts for higher postoperative renal function and lesser incidence of hypertension as compared to the radical nephrectomy. Overall and event-free survivals are comparable or even better with NSS.
Esophagogastric Fistula Associated with Paraesophageal Hernia in a 5-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Iwade Tamaki
Published: January 2022

Esophagogastric fistula is a rare complication related to severe gastroesophageal reflux disease, previous surgery, or malignancy. We describe an unusual case of esophagogastric fistula associated with paraesophageal hernia in a 5-year-old girl. This is the first report in pediatric patients.
Adrenal Castleman's Disease
Authors: Raja Anand , Malik Kanuj , Mahalingam Sivakumar
Published: January 2022

Castleman's disease is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder of poorly understood etiology. It is most commonly located in the mediastinum. Castleman's disease mimicking adrenal neoplasm is a very rare differential diagnosis and unusual presentation. We report a rare suprarenal unicentric hyaline vascular variant of the disease in a 16-year-old boy with atypical symptoms mimicking an adrenal neoplasm.
Metachronous Venous Malformation Masquerading as an Obscure Gastrointestinal Bleed
Authors: Patil Neehar , Shetty Jeevak , Kadamba Padmalatha S. , Somashekhar Manjiri , Kumari M. K. Kalpana
Published: January 2022

Vascular malformation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract along with metachronous lesions elsewhere in the body is extremely rare. We report an unusual case of a female child, with a history of venous malformation excision over the right leg presenting with severe iron-deficiency anemia. Although venous malformations of the small bowel are a rare cause of occult GI bleed, in the presence of cutaneous vascular lesions, there should be a high index of suspicion of a vascular malformation, along with the other causes of GI bleed in children.
Complicated Pylephlebitis Secondary to Perforated Appendicitis in an Adolescent
Authors: Mehta Sagar Jayesh , Malhotra Smita , Panwar Ashok , Sibal Anupam
Published: January 2022

Septic thrombophlebitis of the portal vein or pylephlebitis is a rare cause of morbidity and mortality in children. The common causes include infective intra-abdominal pathology (acute appendicitis or diverticulitis) or inflammatory conditions (acute pancreatitis and inflammatory bowel disease). Management involves a multidisciplinary team approach for favorable outcome. We present a case report of pylephlebitis secondary to perforated appendicitis with incomplete resolution of thrombosis.
Correlation of Urethral Ratio and Bladder Wall Thickness with Cystoscopic Findings in Posterior Urethral Valve Patients to Assess Residual Valves
Authors: Motiwala Tanmay , Sinha Arvind , Rathod Kirtikumar J. , Manchanda Vivek , Yadav Taruna , Jadhav Avinash , Pathak Manish , Saxena Rahul
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

Posterior urethral valve (PUV) is life threatening congenital anomaly of urinary tract. Aim of the study was to correlate urethral ratio (UR) and bladder wall thickness (BWT) with cystoscopic findings in PUV patients to assess residual valves and to validate UR as a diagnostic tool for residual valves. It also aimed to assess the utility of bladder wall thickness in diagnosis of residual valves.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 31 patients were included in the prospective study done from 2017 to 2019. Calculation of UR was done in oblique VCUG films by dividing maximum posterior and anterior urethral diameter without the catheter insitu. Measurement of BWT was done at dome and bladder neck at full distension with feeding tube insitu and was done at same volume in follow up. The procedure was repeated at 3 months follow up. The findings were compared with cystoscopic findings for the status of residual valves as gold standard. Each patient served as control for self in the study.

Results:

Median age of presentation was 1 years with range of 1day to 10 years. The most common complains at the time of presentation in our study was straining (35.48%) followed by antenatally diagnosed patients (25.81%) and recurrent UTI (19.36%). Pre fulguration median UR was 2.45. Post Fulguration median UR was 1.20. It showed a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.001) after fulguration. Pre fulguration median BWT was 4 mm. Post fulguration median BWT was 2.5 mm. BWT showed a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.001) after fulguration as well. ROC curve was plotted for UR and BWT. BWT more than 1.95 mm (sensitivity-80%) and UR more than 1.2 (sensitivity-70%) indicates residual valves.

Conclusion:

A step ladder approach including BWT, UR and check cystoscopy can serve as a new diagnostic algorithm for the assessment of residual valves thereby avoiding extra radiation and general anesthesia exposure.
Effectiveness of flipped classroom among nursing students on venous thromboembolism (VTE)
Authors: AL-Mugheed K , Bayraktar N
Published: January 2022

Background:

Modern innovative education approaches are crucial to be incorporated into nursing education that leads to improving evidence-based teaching strategies, and closes the gap between theory and practice, as well as to prepare the nursing students to their future workplaces.

Aim:

Aim of the study was evaluation the effectiveness of the flipped classroom method among nursing students regarding VTE basic knowledge, risk factors, and prophylaxis.

Subjects and Methods:

This study was implemented in a Faculty of Nursing in Northern Cyprus at Nicosia, and used pre-test and post-test, and interventional design. A total of 100 bachelor-degree nursing students were composed the sample of the study. The Implementation of the study was conducted in three phases including pre-test, educational intervention, and post-test. Data were evaluated using the independent-sample t test.

Results:

The findings of the study showed statistically significant improvement in the overall mean scores of all VTE after the educational intervention through flipped classroom. Students classified the strength points with four themes; deep motive learning, technology support, team-based learning, and satisfaction.

Conclusions:

Our results support the effectiveness of the flipped classroom method in nursing education; the method may be useful for developing of educational strategies in nursing.
Thumb talc granuloma mimicking squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Babalola OF , Salawu AI , Okunlola AI , Abdullahi YO
Published: January 2022

Application of topical powdery substances to the wound is an age old practice. Talc containing powdery substances are however commonplace and predominant in our environment. This insoluble mineral has been linked to chronic granulomatous reaction particularly in the lungs. We present a case report of a fifty-year-old man with prolonged application of talc containing powdery substances to the left thumb wound and excitation of exuberant granuloma mimicking squamous cell carcinoma. He had complete excision of the mass and satisfactory first dorsal metacarpal artery flap coverage of the soft tissue defect.
The complex microbiome of caries-active and caries-free supragingival plaques in permanent dentition
Authors: Çelik ZC , Çakiris A , Abaci N , Yaniikoğlu F , Ilgin C , Ekmekçi SS , Celik H , Tağtekin D
Published: January 2022

Background and Aim:

Dental caries is one of the most common diseases seen in the oral cavity in all periods of deciduous, mixed, and permanent dentition. A comprehensive study of the oral microbiome is required to understand its polymicrobial etiology. The aim of this study was to reveal the plaque microbiome of caries-active and caries-free adults.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 52 samples were collected from 26 caries-active patients and 26 caries-free controls. Dental supragingival plaque samples were collected from each subject and the bacterial 16S rDNA, expanded V3–V4 region, was amplified using next generation sequencing.

Results:

The core microbiome was defined with 235 shared bacteria in genus level, and among all microbiome 14.8% of all bacteria showed significant difference (P < 0.05). The bacteria responsible of caries may be listed as Anaeroglobus, Atopobium, Bifidobacterium, Centipeda, Cryptobacterium, Desulfobulbus, Filifactor, Howardella, Lactobacillus, Leptotrichiaceae (unclassified), Megasphaera, Mycoplasma, Olsenella, Phocaeicola, Propionibacterium, Pseudoramibacter, Scardovia, Schwartzia, Treponema, and Veillonellaceae (unclassified).

Conclusion:

The present study provides comprehensive knowledge of the microbiological etiology of caries in permanent dentition.
Consequences of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis on ocular parameters of anterior and posterior segments
Authors: Doğan M , Halilova V , Sabaner MC , Eroğul Ö , Gobeka HH
Published: January 2022

Aims:

To investigate consequences of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) on the ocular anterior and posterior segment parameters.

Materials and Methods:

Forty healthy participants (mean age: 25.90 ± 5.7 years, 20 females, 20 males) and 40 patients with SAC (mean age: 26.20 ± 5.7 years, 20 females, 20 males) were included in this prospective study. The anterior segment parameters including central corneal thickness (CCT) and anterior chamber depth (ACD) were measured by Scheimpflug imaging system. Axial length (AL) was measured by optical biometry. The posterior segment parameters, including retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), subfoveal choroidal thickness, and central macular thickness were measured by optical coherence tomography.

Results:

Similar values of the ACD, AL, RNFL as well as central macular thickness between healthy participants and patients with SAC were revealed. Despite the CCT being thinner in SAC, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. On the other hand, SAC was found to be associated with an increase in subfoveal choroidal thickness, the condition of which may be attributed to the inflammatory nature of the disease.

Conclusion:

The present study has managed to demonstrate non-significant alterations in the ocular anterior and posterior segment parameters of patients with SAC. Yet, the increase in subfoveal choroidal thickness may be linked to the accompanying inflammation of both the conjunctiva and other ocular tissues, particularly the choroidal layer.
The role of simulator and digital technologies in head and neck reconstruction
Authors: Alfouzan AF
Published: January 2022

This review summarizes the development of digital technology in the field of head and neck surgeries. Advances in digital technology assist surgeons during preoperative planning, where they can simulate their surgeries with improvement in the resulting accuracy of the surgery. In addition to digital technologies having many applications in the surgical field, they can be used in medical devices, surgical and educational models, and tissue engineering.