bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Future of anti-VEGF: biosimilars and biobetters
Authors: Kapur Monika , Nirula Suvansh , Naik Mayuresh P.
Published: January 2022

The advent of Anti- VEGFs like Lucentis (Ranibizumab), Eylea (Aflibercept) and off-label Avastin (Bevacizumab) have radically improved visual outcomes in patients of neovascular Age Related Macular Degeneration (nARMD), Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) and Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO). It is a matter of great concern that the US patents for Ranibizumab and Aflibercept expired in 2020 with European patents to expire in 2022 and 2025, respectively. With the expiry of these biologics, Biosimilars can prove to be saviours in the posterior segment pharmacotherapy owing to their cost effectiveness and availability of various options. Numerous biosimilars are expected to gain approval for clinical use from the US-FDA and EMA soon. Biobetters are better than the original biologic in one or more parameters but require more research and development resources. With the emergence of better manufacturing and purification processes it is imperative that the biologics and biosimilars become better. The Ophthalmologists need to have in depth knowledge about these Biosimilars and Biobetters before these molecules take over the mainstream market.
Acceptability and deliverability of an auditory rhythmical cueing (ARC) training programme for use at home and outdoors to improve gait and physical activity post-stroke
Authors: McCue Patricia , Shaw Lisa , Del Din Silvia , Hunter Heather , Lord Sue , Price Christopher I. M. , Rodgers Helen , Rochester Lynn , Moore Sarah A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Although laboratory studies demonstrate that training programmes using auditory rhythmical cueing (ARC) may improve gait post-stroke, few studies have evaluated this intervention in the home and outdoors where deployment may be more appropriate. This manuscript reports stakeholder refinement of an ARC gait and balance training programme for use at home and outdoors, and a study which assessed acceptability and deliverability of this programme.

Methods

Programme design and content were refined during stakeholder workshops involving physiotherapists and stroke survivors. A two-group acceptability and deliverability study was then undertaken. Twelve patients post-stroke with a gait related mobility impairment received either the ARC gait and balance training programme or the gait and balance training programme without ARC. Programme provider written notes, participant exercise and fall diaries, adverse event monitoring and feedback questionnaires captured data about deliverability, safety and acceptability of the programmes.

Results

The training programme consisted of 18 sessions (six supervised, 12 self-managed) of exercises and ARC delivered by a low-cost commercially available metronome. All 12 participants completed the six supervised sessions and 10/12 completed the 12 self-managed sessions. Provider and participant session written records and feedback questionnaires confirmed programme deliverability and acceptability.

Conclusion

An ARC gait and balance training programme refined by key stakeholders was feasible to deliver and acceptable to participants and providers.

Trial registration

ISCTRN 12/03/2018.
Complex vascular anomalies and tissue overgrowth of limbs associated with increased skin temperature and peripheral venous dilatation: parks weber syndrome or PROS?
Authors: Su Li Xin , Sun Yi , Wang Zhenfeng , Wang Deming , Yang Xitao , Zheng Lianzhou , Wen Mingzhe , Fan Xindong , Cai Ren
Published: January 2022

PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum (PROS) is a series of congenital, sporadic disorders that are associated with segmental overgrowth phenotypes and postzygotic, somatic gene mutations in the PIK3CA-ATK-mTOR pathway. The variability and overlapping phenotypes between PROS and other complex vascular malformations make the differential diagnosis confusing and challenging. PROS should be considered for the differential diagnosis with other complex vascular malformations and syndromes with a tissue overgrowth phenotype, such as Parkes-Weber syndrome (PWS).

Herein, we diagnosed one unique clinically challenging case manifested as capillary malformation (CM), limb overgrowth, as well as increased skin temperature and peripheral venous dilatation of lower limb that indicated a potential fast-flow lesion. The patient was initially diagnosed with PWS. Contrary to the previous diagnosis, based on further MR imaging and digital subtraction angiography (DSA), which ruled out the existence of AVMs and AVFs, and molecular analysis with targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) revealing a somatic PIK3CA mutation, we ultimately diagnosed that the patient had a unique form of PROS simulating PWS phenotypes. We suggest that it is important to propose the differential diagnosis of PWS and PROS, two diseases that share a common overgrowth phenotype. We recommended radiological diagnosis such as MRI, CT and DSA as well as further molecular diagnosis to provide more information for the assessment of vascular lesions and to further guide clinical treatment strategies.
Isolation, identification and virulence of indigenous entomopathogenic fungal strains against the peach-potato aphid, Myzus persicae Sulzer (Hemiptera: Aphididae), and the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Ullah Sami , Raza Abu Bakar Muhammad , Alkafafy Mohamed , Sayed Samy , Hamid Muhammad Imran , Majeed Muhammad Zeeshan , Riaz Muhammad Asam , Gaber Nevien M. , Asim Muhammad
Published: January 2022

Background

As different biogeographic strains and isolates of entomopathogenic fungi vary in their genetic, enzymatic and pathogenic characteristics, this study assessed the virulence of 2 indigenous strains of Beauveria bassiana (Balsam) Vuillemin and Metarhizium anisopliae (Metschn.) Sorokin (Ascomycota, Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae), isolated from naturally infected insect cadavers, against the 3rd instar nymphs of Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and 3rd instar larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) using leaf-dip and larval-dip methods, respectively.

Results

Both fungal isolates exhibited considerable pathogenicity against M. persicae and S. frugiperda. Mortality in all bioassays was conidial concentration and exposure time dependent and increased significantly along with both factors (R2 = 0.86–0.99 for B. bassiana and 0.82–0.94 for M. anisopliae). Moreover, M. anisopliae isolate appeared more virulent to S. frugiperda larvae than B. bassiana isolate, while the later fungal isolate was more lethal to M. persicae nymphs than the former one. At the highest conidial concentration (1.0 × 109 conidia/ml), M. anisopliae caused maximum mean mortality of S. frugiperda (88%) and M. persicae (65%) and B. bassiana exhibited maximum mean mortality of S. frugiperda (76%) and M. persicae (94%). Moreover, probit regression analyses showed LT50 values for M. persicae of 4.57 and 6.86 days at 1.0 × 109 conidia/ml for the isolates of B. bassiana and M. anisopliae, respectively, while LC50 values were 7.75 × 106 and 8.70 × 107 conidia/ml after 10th day of application, for the isolates of B. bassiana and M. anisopliae, respectively, against M. persicae. Similarly, LT50 values for S. frugiperda were 7.75 and 7.03 days for 1.0 × 109 conidia/ml concentration and LC50 values were 2.84 × 107 and 8.84 × 105 conidia/ml at 10th day data for the isolates of B. bassiana and M. anisopliae, respectively.

Conclusion

Overall study results demonstrated the effectiveness of B. bassiana and M. anisopliae against M. persicae and S. frugiperda, respectively. However, field evaluations of these indigenously isolated promising fungal strains against these insect pests.
Palm oil extracts protected against cadmium chloride poisoning via inhibition of oxidative stress in rats
Authors: Ichipi-Ifukor Patrick Chukwuyenum , Asagba Samuel Ogheneovo , Nwose Chibueze , Mordi Joseph Chukwufumnanya , Oyem John Chukwuma
Published: January 2022

Background

The probable mechanism of an earlier reported capacity of palm oil extracts to confer protection against high dose cadmium poisoning in rats was reported in this study. Similar experimental design earlier reported by us was retained. Rats therefore were sacrificed at intervals of twelve; twenty four and forty eight hours post CdCl2 insult.

Results

Oxidative stress and antioxidant status (malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione) were assessed in tissues (liver, kidney, heart, brain, muscle) and serum. Oxidative stress indicators showed a significantly (p < 0.05) increased lipid peroxidation and alterations in antioxidant defence systems occasioned by drop in catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes (serum, liver, heart, brain and kidneys) of the rats. Also observed were significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the non-enzymatic antioxidant reduced glutathione over time. Pre-administration of rats with the crude palm oil and its extracts modulated cadmium mediated depletion of the antioxidant capacities of rats acutely exposed to cadmium and rising lipid peroxidation profile.

Conclusions

Regulation of stress and antioxidant response was the underlying mechanism by which the extracts conferred protection against high dose cadmium insult thus suggesting its potential as a viable therapeutic target against its deleterious effects.

Graphical Abstract
Radiological manifestations of benign mesenteric lipoma that presented with acute intestinal obstruction: A case report
Authors: Gan David Eng Yeow , Teng Wei Woon , Surenthiran Theva Darshini , Ng Chiak Yot , Hayati Firdaus
Published: January 2022

Background

Intestinal obstruction is a common surgical emergency that is presented to the hospital with various aetiologies. Among all, mesenteric lipoma is one of the uncommon extraluminal causes of intestinal obstruction. In such conditions, bowel volvulus, compression or even adhesion are the underlying pathologies.

Case presentation

We report a 69-year-old gentleman who presented with a triad of intestinal obstruction which required exploratory laparotomy. Preoperative computed tomography revealed multiple coalescing lobulated hypoattenuating lesions encircling part of a small bowel forming transitional zone. These lesions are comparatively more hypoattenuating in comparison with the surrounding mesenteric fat. Intraoperatively, a giant ileal mesenteric lipoma was identified causing compression and folding to the adjacent small bowel, leading to proximal bowel dilatation. Excision of the lipoma with a few mesenteric lymphadenectomy was done, revealing a benign mesenteric lipoma and reactive lymph nodes. Despite ileus, he made a good postoperative recovery and was discharged well.

Conclusions

Patients with recurrent abdominal pain must have a thorough endoscopic and imaging assessment. Besides common or malignant aetiology, rarities should be considered and actively sought. Mesenteric lipoma is a relatively indolent tumour for which early detection can alter clinical presentation.
Cystic retroperitoneal metastasis from testicular seminoma, radiologically mimicking as lymphangioma
Authors: Sahoo Biswajit , Sultania Mahesh , Jha Shilpy , Patel Ranjan Kumar , Alagappan Alamelu
Published: January 2022

Background

Retroperitoneal nodal metastasis in a primary testicular tumor is not uncommon and usually presents as solid or solid-cystic nodal masses. A completely cystic appearance with fluid attenuation or fluid signal intensity on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), respectively, is an uncommon presentation. There are many case reports of different types of cystic retroperitoneal masses; however, to our knowledge, metastatic retroperitoneal cystic masses showing fluid attenuation/fluid signal intensity on CT/ MRI secondary to primary testicular seminoma masquerading as cystic lymphangioma has been rarely reported in the medical literature. Our case report reports a case of a metastatic retroperitoneal cystic mass in a known case of testicular seminoma patient, which was misdiagnosed as cystic lymphangioma initially based on imaging.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old—patient presented to our hospital with abdominal pain, which was on and off in character. The patient underwent routine ultrasound abdomen, CT and MRI, which revealed multiple cystic lesions in the retroperitoneum. Initially, a provisional diagnosis of cystic lymphangioma was made based on the utterly cystic nature of the lesion and the presence of calcification. However, fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) confirmed the metastatic origin of the lesion and was strengthened by the previous clinical history of orchidectomy.

Conclusion

The treatment strategy for cystic retroperitoneal masses varies depending on the cause and its nature, so differentiation between the cystic masses is essential. Metastasis should also be kept in the differentials in all cystic retroperitoneal masses. Moreover, clinical history and FNAC can assist in making the correct diagnosis.
Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of N-acetylcysteine in ovalbumin-sensitized rats
Authors: Abdel-Fattah Maha M. , Salama Abeer A. A. , Messiha Basim A. S.
Published: January 2022

Background

Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-5 (IL-5) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) as well as immunoglobulin-E (IgE) appear to play a role in asthma. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), an antioxidant, might have clinical benefits in asthma prevention. The possible preventive effects of NAC against experimentally induced asthma in rats are investigated. The rats were allocated into five groups: a normal control, asthma control, a standard dexamethasone (DEXA, 1 mg/kg, orally) group, and two NAC groups (300 and 500 mg/kg, orally, respectively). Ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization was used to trigger asthma, which was then followed by an intra-nasal challenge. Test gents were administrated for 14 days before the challenge and during the three challenge days (20, 21, and 22). The tidal volume (TV) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) as respiratory functions were determined. The pro-inflammatory cytokines as IL-5 and TNF-α were evaluated in lung homogenate. Serum IgE and absolute eosinophil count (AEC) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were measured. In addition, the oxidative markers in lung tissue and nitrosative marker in BALF were assessed; finally, lungs were isolated for histopathological study.

Results

NAC restored lung functions, inhibited the asthma-dependent increase in TNF-α, IL-5, IgE, AEC, nitric oxide, and malondialdehyde levels. NAC further re-established lung glutathione content and superoxide dismutase activity, resulting in milder overall lung pathology.

Conclusions

Experimental bronchial asthma may be protected by NAC. The anti-asthmatic potential of NAC may be explained by its suppressant influence on IgE antibody formation, pro-inflammatory cytokines production, eosinophil infiltration, and oxidative stress.
Implication of plasma gelsolin in systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: Mosaad Ghada M. , Abdel moneam Samia M. , Soliman Amal F. , Ameen Seham G. , Amer Arwa S.
Published: January 2022

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder with more than one organ involvement. Kidney is the foremost commonly affected one. Gelsolin is a protein that induces depolymerization of actin filaments thus preventing downstream stimulation of inflammatory reactions. The aim of this work was to detect the relation of plasma gelsolin to SLE disease activity and severity indices in order to find out if plasma gelsolin could be used as a biomarker of the disease. This study was conducted on 50 SLE female patients and 30 matched control. SLE disease activity Index (SLEDAI) and SLE damage index (SDI) were assessed. All lupus nephritis (LN) patients were subjected to an ultrasound-guided kidney biopsy. Plasma gelsolin level was measured.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 38.5 ± 6.3 years (26–51 years) with median disease duration of 5 (3–9.3) years. Eighteen patients had LN, 11 had cardiac manifestations and 12 had chest manifestations. The mean SLEDAI was 13.1 ± 4.5 (4–22) and the median SDI was 2 (1–3). Plasma gelsolin level was significantly lower in SLE patients (74.9 mg/l; 57.5–98.8 mg/l) compared to control (801.5 mg/l; 225–1008.3 mg/l) (p < 0.001). There were significant negative correlations of gelsolin levels with anti-ds DNA (r = − 0.63, p < 0.001), SLEDAI (r = − 0.79, p < 0.001), and SDI (r = − 0.74, p = 0.001). Plasma gelsolin level was significantly lower in SLE patients with high/very high activity grades compared to those with low and moderate (p = 0.007 and p < 0.001 respectively). A gelsolin level of ≤ 78.95 mg/l significantly predicted renal affection (p < 0.001), with a sensitivity of 100%, specificity 71.9%, and a positive predictive value 66.7%.

Conclusion

A decreased gelsolin level is associated with disease activity in SLE patients. Plasma gelsolin was well related to disease activity and severity with a high predictive value for renal affection comparable to anti-ds DNA titre. Plasma gelsolin is a potentially important predictive biomarker for SLE and LN.
Single-step probabilistic inversion of 3D seismic data of a carbonate reservoir in Southwest Iran
Authors: Heidari Hamed , Hansen Thomas Mejer , Amini Hamed , Niri Mohammad Emami , Madsen Rasmus Bødker , Amini Navid
Published: January 2022

We use a sampling-based Markov chain Monte Carlo method to invert seismic data directly for porosity and to quantify its uncertainty distribution in a hard-rock carbonate reservoir in southwest Iran. The noise that remains in seismic data after the processing flow is correlated with the bandwidth in the range of the seismic wavelet. Hence, to account for the inherent correlated nature of the band-limited seismic noise in the probabilistic inversion of real seismic data, we assume the estimated seismic wavelet as a suitable proxy for capturing the coupling of noise samples. In contrast to the common approach of inserting a delta function on the main diagonal of the covariance matrix, we insert the seismic wavelet on its main diagonal. We also calibrate an empirical and a semiempirical inclusion-based rock-physics model (RPM) to characterize the rock-frame elastic moduli via a lithology-constrained fitting of the parameters of these models, i.e., the critical porosity and the pore aspect ratio. These calibrated RPMs are embedded in the inversion procedure to link petrophysical and elastic properties. In addition, we obtain the pointwise critical porosity and pore aspect ratio, which can potentially facilitate the interpretation of the reservoir for further studies. The inversion results are evaluated by comparing with porosity logs and an existing geologic model (porosity model) constructed through a geostatistical simulation approach. We assess the consistency of the geologic model through a geomodel-to-seismic modeling approach. The results confirm the performance of the probabilistic inversion in resolving some thin layers and reconstructing the observed seismic data. We have evaluated the applicability of our sampling-based approach to invert 3D seismic data for estimating the porosity distribution and its associated uncertainty for four subzones of the reservoir. The porosity time maps and the facies probabilities obtained via porosity cutoffs indicate the relative quality of the reservoir’s subzones.
SH-SH wave inversion for S-wave velocity and density
Authors: Dai Fucai , Zhang Feng , Li Xiangyang
Published: January 2022

SS-waves (SV-SV waves and SH-SH waves) are capable of inverting S-wave velocity ([Formula: see text]) and density ([Formula: see text]) because they are sensitive to both parameters. SH-SH waves can be separated from multicomponent data sets more effectively than the SV-SV wave because the former is decoupled from the PP-wave in isotropic media. In addition, the SH-SH wave can be better modeled than the SV-SV wave in the case of strong velocity/impedance contrast because the SV-SV wave has multicritical angles, some of which can be quite small when velocity/impedance contrast is strong. We derive an approximate equation of the SH-SH wave reflection coefficient as a function of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in natural logarithm variables. The approximation has high accuracy, and it enables the inversion of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in a direct manner. Both coefficients corresponding to [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are “model-parameter independent” and thus there is no need for prior estimate of any model parameter in inversion. Then, we develop an SH-SH wave inversion method and demonstrate it by using synthetic data sets and a real SH-SH wave prestack data set from the west of China. We find that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] can be reliably estimated from the SH-SH wave of small angles.
Writing Centers
Authors: Fitzgerald Lauren
Published: January 2022

Undergraduate-staffed writing centers, tutor-preparation courses, and writing center studies have been and continue to be ideally suited for undergraduate research in English studies. Though requiring resources, planning, and a reconsideration of humanities scholarship, the benefits of writing center undergraduate research are many, including enabling students to develop unique and authentic questions and answers while enhancing their research and tutoring skills, reframing students’ roles within higher education, and preparing humanities majors for a range of career paths.
What's Old Made New
Authors: Garrison John S. , Sharif Saiham
Published: January 2022

This article showcases a guided research project that explores Viet Thanh Nguyen's The Sympathizer (2015) as an adaptation of Hamlet. A digital component to the project further visualizes the reach of Shakespeare's work into that of contemporary writers of color. The discussion underscores how an undergraduate research experience in canonical English literature opens new connections to contemporary depictions of a globalizing world, as well as how digital tools can visualize those connections and grant the student a valuable set of skills.
A Lesson in Ethics
Authors: Trapp Joonna Smitherman , Dozé Mariah
Published: January 2022

This article presents a mentor and student's journey into the world of undergraduate scholarly publication discover a number of unexpected ethical conundrums. The student builds her authority by leaning into her own expertise as a writer and owner of her own work. As the publishing site becomes a site of manipulation, she responds with her growing sense of the ethics of writing for the public. She gains authority in ways that few undergraduate writers can through her decision making.
Perdiendo mi persona
Authors: Herzl-Betz Rachel , Virrueta Hugo
Published: January 2022

Para estudiantes de color who participate in academic research, there is added emotional labor as they make decisions revolving around language, identity, and disclosure. La labor se mantiene invisible para los organizadores de conferencias académicas, y presenta limitaciones a los que son permitidos de participar. Dr. Rachel Herzl-Betz y Hugo Virrueta share a conversation about Hugo's experience writing for one national conference funding application, y muestran como systemic inequality limits who may participate in academic research.
Dishevelled coordinates phosphoinositide kinases PI4KIIIα and PIP5KIγ for efficient PtdInsP2 synthesis
Authors: de la Cruz Lizbeth , Riquelme Raul , Vivas Oscar , Barria Andres , Jensen Jill B.
Published: January 2022

Phosphatidylinositol(4,5)-bisphosphate (PtdInsP2) is an important modulator of many cellular processes, and its abundance in the plasma membrane is closely regulated. We examined the hypothesis that members of the Dishevelled scaffolding protein family can bind the lipid kinases phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase (PI4K) and phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase (PIP5K), facilitating synthesis of PtdInsP2 directly from phosphatidylinositol. We used several assays for PtdInsP2 to examine the cooperative function of phosphoinositide kinases and the Dishevelled protein Dvl3 in the context of two receptor signaling cascades. Simultaneous overexpression of PI4KIIIα (also known as PI4KA) and PIP5KIγ (also known as PIP5K1C) had a synergistic effect on PtdInsP2 synthesis that was recapitulated by overexpression of Dvl3. Increasing the activity of Dvl3 by overexpression increased resting plasma membrane PtdInsP2. Knockdown of Dvl3 reduced resting plasma membrane PtdInsP2 and slowed PtdInsP2 resynthesis following receptor activation. We confirm that Dvl3 promotes coupling of PI4KIIIα and PIP5KIγ and show that this interaction is essential for efficient resynthesis of PtdInsP2 following receptor activation.
Nuclear magnetic resonance reveals a two hairpin equilibrium near the 3′-splice site of influenza A segment 7 mRNA that can be shifted by oligonucleotides
Authors: Kauffmann Andrew D. , Kennedy Scott D. , Moss Walter N. , Kierzek Elzbieta , Kierzek Ryszard , Turner Douglas H.
Published: January 2022

Influenza A kills hundreds of thousands of people globally every year and has the potential to generate more severe pandemics. Influenza A's RNA genome and transcriptome provide many potential therapeutic targets. Here, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments suggest that one such target could be a hairpin loop of 8 nucleotides in a pseudoknot that sequesters a 3′ splice site in canonical pairs until a conformational change releases it into a dynamic 2 × 2-nt internal loop. NMR experiments reveal that the hairpin loop is dynamic and able to bind oligonucleotides as short as pentamers. A 3D NMR structure of the complex contains 4 and likely 5 bp between pentamer and loop. Moreover, a hairpin sequence was discovered that mimics the equilibrium of the influenza hairpin between its structure in the pseudoknot and upon release of the splice site. Oligonucleotide binding shifts the equilibrium completely to the hairpin secondary structure required for pseudoknot folding. The results suggest this hairpin can be used to screen for compounds that stabilize the pseudoknot and potentially reduce splicing.
Αναπαραγωγική Υγεία
Authors: Χωριανοπούλου Μαρία , Βαγενά Δήμητρα
Published: January 2022

Οι τίτλοι που περιλαμβάνονται στην σειρά Εγχειρίδια της Έδρας Βιοηθικής της UNESCO μεταφράζονται με έγγραφη άδεια του Κτήτορα της Έδρας Καθηγητή Amnon Carmi προς το Ελληνικό Κλιμάκιο της Διεθνούς Έδρας Βιοηθικής, το οποίο έχει ιδρυθεί και λειτουργεί στο Εθνικό και Καποδιστριακό Πανεπιστήμιο Αθηνών, και προς το Εργαστήριο Εφαρμοσμένης Φιλοσοφίας του Τμήματος Φιλοσοφίας του Εθνικού και Καποδιστριακού Πανεπιστημίου Αθηνών. Οι πρωτότυποι τίτλοι αποτελούν πνευματική ιδιοκτησία των συγγραφέων και της Διεθνούς Έδρας Βιοηθικής, και διατίθενται ελεύθερα από τον ιστότοπο της International Chair in Bioethics (WMA Cooperation Center). Οι μεταφράσεις αποτελούν πνευματική ιδιοκτησία των μεταφραστών, του Ελληνικού Κλιμακίου της Διεθνούς Έδρας Βιοηθικής και του Εργαστηρίου Εφαρμοσμένης Φιλοσοφίας του Τμήματος Φιλοσοφίας του ΕΚΠΑ, και η διάθεσή τους υπόκειται στις προβλέψεις που διέπουν την άδεια χρήσης Creative Commons (CC) BY NC SA.
“Royal Show” in Qohelet 2:1–11. A māšal – a Mind Exercise
Authors: Iwański Dariusz
Published: January 2022

Much has been written on the so-called royal fiction in Qoheleth. Generally speaking, scholars agree that it is a literary fiction. However, there is no unanimity as far as the interpretation of its role in the Book is concerned. Some would claim that it expresses a hidden critique of monarchy, while others would argue that it is veiled praise of royal institutions. It is striking, though, that commentators rarely recognize the literary genre of the part concerned. The article offers a different approach to the interpretative challenge it presents. It mainly focuses on the core pericope of the royal part – Qoh 2:1–11 – determining its genre as a māšal. It is a “royal show” craftily fashioned by a brilliant teacher Qoheleth. It is meant to be a mind exercise helping the wisdom searcher to reflect upon his own mindset, goals, and expectations.
Prorok Salomon i jego proroctwa w Targumie Koheleta
Authors: Kuśmirek Anna
Published: January 2022

Nauki zawarte w Księdze Koheleta były zbyt odmienne i radykalne, by mogły być przekazywane w tradycji żydowskiej bez sprostowań, zastrzeżeń i modyfikacji, a przynajmniej z ograniczonym zaufaniem. Jednym z tych zabiegów było przypisanie autorstwa Księgi Koheleta Salomonowi po to, by mogła zostać włączona do kanonu Biblii Hebrajskiej. Świadectwa wczesnej interpretacji tej księgi są obecne w jej starożytnych przekładach, między innymi Targumie Koheleta (Tg Koh). Artykuł podejmuje analizę tych fragmentów wersji aramejskiej Koheleta, w których jest zawarta tradycja o Salomonie jako proroku. Przekaz biblijny zyskuje w ten sposób nowe znaczenie oraz wzmacnia potrzebną akceptację w judaizmie rabinicznym. Ponadto ukazuje, w jakim stopniu targum zmieniał oryginalny tekst biblijny.
Pobyt św. Jana Apostoła na Patmos według apokryfu „Dzieje Jana pióra Prochora” a freski w narteksie zewnętrznym Monastyru św. Jana Teologa w Chorze na Patmos
Authors: Berus Justyn Krzysztof
Published: January 2022

Zewnętrzny narteks monastyru św. Jana Teologa na Patmos został ozdobiony różnymi freskami z Pisma Świętego i tradycji prawosławnej. Wśród nich znajduje się 10 fresków ukazujących życie Jana zgodnie z tekstem Dzieje Jana pióra Prochora. Freski powstały w XVIII w. Artykuł opisuje trzy freski ukazujące pobyt Jana na wyspie. Podkreślono ich zgodność ze sposobem ilustrowania stosowanym w kościele prawosławnym. Zwrócono uwagę na oddziaływanie tekstu apokryfu jako swoistego źródła do ich powstania. Główną ideą, którą mają ukazywać, jest zaznaczenie ciągłości obecności chrześcijaństwa na wyspie poprzez monastyr i szczególne, wybrane sposoby życia na wzór św. Jana poprzez życie mnisze. Mają być one również zachętą dla mnichów, że warto iść drogą powołania monastycznego.
La mano di Luca nella parabola del fariseo e del pubblicano
Authors: Blajer Piotr
Published: January 2022

The study aims to answer the question whether Luke 18:9-14 presents an original tradition dating back to the teaching of Jesus or is entirely the work of the third evangelist. As the parable is not found in the other synoptic gospels to compare with the Lucan text, the author approaches the question by first studying the language of the parable and then discussing the possible context in which the parable could have been pronounced. He then examines the other synoptic gospels to see whether a similar teaching exists even though there is no direct parallel passage. Although none of these elements considered on its own is satisfactory to establish the origin of the parable, taken together they provide convincing evidence that it may have had its origin in Jesus’ teaching.
Protestant Providentialism in the Commonwealth of the Nobles: A critical view on Sarmatism
Authors: Kriegseisen Wojciech
Published: January 2022

This study is devoted to providentialism, an element characteristic of Sarmatism – a dominant ideology and culture in the early modern Commonwealth of the nobles. The attachment of special weight to providence’s care of the state and the nobility seems to have been characteristic also of Protestant circles in the sixteenth and early seventeenth century, and therefore the culture of the nobles’ Sarmatism should not be reduced to its late form, dominated as it was by Catholicism in the late seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.
Were Elections in the Socialist Countries Elections at All? The Case of Elections to the Sejm in Communist-Ruled Poland
Authors: Siedziako Michał
Published: January 2022

The article presents the current state of research into parliamentary elections in Poland during the period of communist rule. The author outlines the development of the electoral system of the Polish People’s Republic in the 1940s and 50s, and also analyses its singular features in the years when elections to the Sejm were fully controlled by the ruling Polish United Workers’ Party. The final part of the paper is devoted to elections in the 1980s, when this electoral model collapsed, thereby contributing to the disintegration of the communist dictatorship in Poland.
The English Connection: Jacob and Johann Philipp Breyne, James Petiver and Plants: The Correspondence between the Breynes and Petiver from the 1690s
Authors: Pękacka-Falkowska Katarzyna
Published: January 2022

The article discusses the hitherto unknown correspondence between the Danzig (present-day Gdańsk) botanist Jacob Breyne, his son Johann Philipp Breyne, and James Petiver in the last decade of the seventeenth century. Their correspondence documents contacts between one of the most important naturalists of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in the second half of the seventeenth century and members of the Royal Society. The content of the letters reveals how books, naturalia and various artefacts circulated between Western and East-Central Europe. It also reveals the principles of reciprocity and friendship followed by those who conducted inquiries into natural history.
Difficult Unions: Marital Cases Before the Consistorial Court of Poznań at the Beginning of the Fifteenth Century
Authors: Bracha Krzysztof
Published: January 2022

The utilization of consistorial sources is a research postulate that has been voiced repeatedly over the years. These materials comprise a compact volume of data that are both organized serially and mass-produced, while the fact that they touch upon a wealth of topics and thus have considerable cognitive value for interdisciplinary studies cannot be overestimated. Magdalena Biniaś-Szkopek’s book is a pioneering study and, at the same time, a successful attempt at making comprehensive use of the nine oldest registers of the consistorial court of Poznań. The ledgers cover the years 1404–26 and contain entries devoted to ‘marital issues’ in the broadest meaning of the term, with particular consideration being given to the complex position of women who took part in proceedings before mediaeval ecclesiastical courts.
Administering Empire. Business Diplomacy in Early Modern Sweden: The Cases of Abraham Cabiljau and the Gothenburg Company
Authors: Wirta Kaarle , Tikka Katja , Björklund Jaakko
Published: January 2022

The article illustrates the importance of business diplomacy practised by free agents, who navigated and negotiated between northern European empires for widespread commercial, legal and administrative developments. Abraham Cabiljau’s career is an example from the early modern Swedish empire, which stands on the threshold of a new era. In the Swedish empire, Cabiljau was involved in several different sectors, from military recruitment to the development of state accounting and administration of international trade. He represents the Swedish empire’s vast economic relationships with international merchant networks operating in a broad spectrum of military and commercial arenas. The Swedish empire was economically dependent on the financial resources of the merchants in Amsterdam, and economic prosperity was not the sole contribution of these merchants. The education, knowledge and connections provided by Cabiljau greatly enhanced the administration and organisation of Sweden’s international trade by importing a new legal mindset and organisational culture. In return, northern mining resources and Baltic commerce were alluring for Dutch merchants. We argue that the modelling of international organisations was an essential part of Swedish economic development. However, the first Swedish trading companies remained an experimental attempt to transplant the Dutch East India Company (VOC) model to Sweden. Individuals like Cabiljau represent key actors who ignited, taught and promoted commercial law development in Sweden, on which international commerce was later built upon, with long-lasting impacts.
Russian–Prussian surrender of fugitives and deserters: cartel conventions of the 1840s and 1850s
Authors: Rutkowski Marek
Published: January 2022

The article analyses the extradition cartel conventions concluded between Tsarist Russia and the Kingdom of Prussia during the 1840s and 1850s. The first part is devoted to the discussion of the actual conditions that affected the procedures for the release of fugitives in the Kingdom of Poland after the failure of the November Uprising. The second part offers an in-depth analysis of the Russian-Prussian extradition agreement of 8/20 May 1844. Thirdly, the study examines the convention on the exchange of deserters and fugitives that was agreed upon on 27 July / 8 August 1857 on behalf of Tsar Alexander II and King Frederick William IV of Prussia. The conclusions draw attention to the repetitive character of a number of legal arrangements included in cartel conventions, but also emphasise that some provisions were subject to verification, depending on practical considerations and intentions.
Provincial treatment and care asylums for the mentally ill in East Prussia as forgotten cultural heritage: case study of the asylum in Allenberg (now Znamensk, Russian Federation)
Authors: Bręczewska-Kulesza Daria
Published: January 2022

The article focuses on issues demonstrating the role of architecture in the development of Prussian psychiatry in the nineteenth and the early twentieth century. The Provincial Treatment and Care Institution Allenberg (now Znamensk, Russian Federation) is used as a case study to demonstrate the perception of model solutions used in Prussian asylums located in distant provinces. The asylum discussed in this article met the contemporary requirements, proving that these models and newest trends reached East Prussia very quickly. The asylum complex in Allenberg was a testimony to the development of Prussian and European architectural thought in the service of medicine. Unfortunately, today the former asylum remains in a poor condition and is treated as unwanted legacy rather than a cultural monument.
Faculty of Political Science and International Studies, University of Warsaw
Authors: Pasztor Maria
Published: January 2022

This article deals with the visit of the Belgian Queen Elisabeth to Poland in 1955. The monarch was to be the honorary guest of the Fifth International Chopin Competition. The queen used the opportunity to carry out a diplomatic mission, attempting to resolve issues that negotiations between Brussels and Warsaw failed to disentangle. This article analyses the mission and its political consequences for mutual relations between the two countries.
The role of the Russian Orthodox Church in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian armed conflict
Authors: Baluk Walenty , Doroshko Mykola
Published: January 2022

The article analyses the influence of the religious factor on the internal processes of nation-state consolidation in Ukraine and on the causes and consequences of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. The division of the Ukrainian Orthodoxy into three branches (UAOC, UOC-KP and UOC-MP) did not allow the Church to become a consolidating factor in the formation of a nation-state in independent Ukraine and a generator of social transformation. The situation may change for the better after the creation of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Ukraine in 2018.
The role of ethnopolitical processes in the states of the Eastern European subregion
Authors: Karolak-Michalska Magdalena
Published: January 2022

The article deals with issues related to contemporary ethnopolitical processes (ethnicity politicisation, ethnopolitical mobilisation of national and ethnic minorities) in the states of the Eastern Europe subregion (Republic of Belarus, Republic of Moldova, Ukraine). It presents social and political activity and participation of national and ethnic minorities in authority bodies of the studied states, as well as the consequences of these processes for the security of the subregion.
Ślady świętości w „Zapiskach więziennych” bł. Stefana Wyszyńskiego, Prymasa Polski
Authors: Bednarczyk Rafał
Published: January 2022

Zapiski więzienne kard. S. Wyszyńskiego ukazały się już po jego śmierci i są dziełem, które pozwala wniknąć w jego szczególnie trudne doświadczenia więzienne z lat 1953–1956. Można z nich odczytać jego zmagania z sytuacją zewnętrzną, w jakiej się znalazł, a także wyznania duchowe przekształcające się w intymną rozmowę z Bogiem i Matką Bożą. Z lektury dzieła wyłania się obraz człowieka, który potrafił w tych warunkach dokonać głębokiego wniknięcia w siebie i otworzyć się na Boga. Pozwoliło mu to zostawić na kartach tego dziennika ślady, które dziś świadczą o jego świętości, zwłaszcza dyscyplina pracy i modlitwy, więź z Maryją, heroizm przebaczania, pokora wobec woli Boga i wierność misji kapłańskiej.
Filozoficzna nauka o znakach jako pośrednikach ludzkiego poznania a znakowy charakter liturgii
Authors: Dutkiewicz Tomasz Wojciech , Brzeziński Daniel
Published: January 2022

Filozoficzna refleksja prowadzona w ramach nauki o znakach ukazuje je jako pośredniki umożliwiające poznanie czegoś innego, aniżeli one same. Wyraża to klasyczne, łacińskie określenie aliquid stat pro aliquo, w myśl którego „coś stoi zamiast czegoś innego”. Szczególnym narzędziem, w którym wykorzystane zostają znaki, służącym międzyosobowej komunikacji jest ludzki język. Konieczność posługiwania się znakami w jej procesie zdeterminowana jest faktem, że wszelkie ludzkie poznanie bierze swój początek od zmysłów. Pociąga to za sobą konieczność sięgania po materialne pośredniki także tam, gdzie w grę wchodzi przekazywanie treści najbardziej nawet duchowych i wzniosłych. Również Bóg, komunikując się z człowiekiem, pozostaje niejako „skazany” na posługiwanie się znakami podpadającymi pod ludzkie zmysły.
            Znakowy charakter posiada również święta liturgia, zarówno w swoim wymiarze anabatycznym, jak i w wymiarze katabatycznym. Znakowy charakter posiadają także wszelkie nabożeństwa i pobożność ludowa, w których dominuje – co oczywiste – wymiar anabatyczny, czyli kult oddawany Bogu przez człowieka. Wśród używanych w liturgii znaków szczególną rolę pełnią wyrażenia składające się na język, który – we właściwy sobie sposób – wydaje się spełniać najbardziej charakterystyczne funkcje, na które wskazuje filozoficzna refleksja nad językiem, prowadzona w ramach semiotyki.
"Homo pandemicus" jako nowy paradygmat antropologiczny. Próba określenia przedmiotu filozofii pandemii
Authors: Jaworski Krzysztof
Published: January 2022

Pandemia COVID-19 dotknęła ludzkość nie tylko w aspekcie biologicznym, lecz również w aspekcie psychologicznym i duchowym. Stała się ona okazją do mądrościowej refleksji nad kondycją ludzką w czasie kryzysu. Pandemia ukształtowała w ludziach specyficzny światopogląd i zmusiła ich do określonych zachowań, które przed pandemią nie pojawiały się. W ten sposób ukształtował się nowy paradygmat antropologiczny zwany homo pandemicus.
Celem tej pracy jest zdefiniowanie podstaw dyscypliny zwanej filozofią pandemii. W pierwszej części zostały określone przedmiot, metoda i cel filozofii pandemii, w drugiej części przedstawiono trzy fenomeny ludzkie towarzyszące pandemii, związane z prawdą, wiedzą i wolnością.
Z pomocą człowiekowi grzesznemu, czyli o miłosiernym towarzyszeniu Kościoła
Authors: Zarembski Zbigniew
Published: January 2022

Człowiek został stworzony przez Boga na Jego obraz i podobieństwo. Jednak na skutek grzechu pierwszych rodziców skażona została ludzka natura. Grzech wprowadził nieład w ludzkie życie i oddalił człowieka od Boga. Bóg jednak nie zrezygnował z niego. Z pomocą grzesznej ludzkości przyszedł Boży Syn, który dokonał dzieła odkupienia poprzez ofiarę złożoną na drzewie krzyża. Z tej ofiary płynie zbawcza moc i siła. Jednak człowiek w swej wolności ma możliwość decydowania o swoim szczęściu i opowiadania się po stronie dobra bądź zła. Okazuje się, że człowiek w swej egzystencji ulega ciągle pokusie i popełnia grzech, oddalając się tym samym od Bożej miłości. Bóg jednak nadal przychodzi mu z pomocą, a czyni to we wspólnocie Kościoła, który powołany jest do głoszenia prawdy i urzeczywistniania Bożego miłosierdziu. Tak więc człowiek grzeszny może ciągle liczyć na Bożą pomoc. Ta pomoc przychodzi do niego w słowie Bożym i w sakramentach świętych, a także poprzez miłosierne towarzyszenie Kościoła. Jednak Bóg do niczego nikogo nie zmusza, stąd też decyzja o odrzuceniu grzechu należy do człowieka.
Do entregador de informação a mediação pedagógica por meio das TDIC na educação híbrida: um estudo de caso de professores da educação básica
Authors: Braga Tânia Noemia Rodrigues , Souza Karine Pinheiro
Published: January 2022

O artigo versa sobre uma nova abordagem pedagógica denominada ensino híbrido que propõe o atendimento dos alunos em suas necessidades individuais e interesses com utilização das TDIC. É a ‘personalização do ensino’, tendo como foco o aprendiz, com ênfase na aprendizagem. A pesquisa bibliográfica baseia-se em: Horn & Staker (2015), Bacich et al (2018), Netto (2005), Valente (2014), etc. O objetivo é apresentar modelos do ensino híbrido, tendo em vista a personalização do ensino para promover uma aprendizagem centrada no aluno e explana sobre mediação pedagógica. O método escolhido foi hipotético-dedutivo, empregando a abordagem qualitativa, coleta informações de um estudo de caso em escolas do ensino médio. A partir de um dos eixos da análise de dados: metodologia do ensino híbrido, seus modelos e personalização, percebeu-se que são necessárias mudanças na formação inicial dos docentes, e há necessidade de formação contínua, para uma compreensão do processo de aprendizagem, que se revela de muita importância. Isso implica na mudança de programas, de currículos mais flexíveis e horários adaptados às condições dos alunos, respeitando seu ritmo individual, contribuindo para um ambiente de aprendizado eficiente, para concretização do ensino híbrido e personalização do ensino, criando condições favoráveis para  desenvolvimento de práticas pedagógicas Docentes adquirem papéis diferentes, não serão entregadores de informações, e sim mediadores entre o conhecimento e alunos. Acredita-se que as escolas avançarão rumo a um novo paradigma da educação, em que a presença do EH mediado pelas TDIC vai permear ações educativas, garantindo qualidade de ensino e melhores resultados na aprendizagem.
Um novo tempo, apesar dos perigos: atuação docente na educação básica no contexto da cibercultura - a voz das educadoras!
Authors: Nogueira Aurinete Alves , Sabino de Sousa Francisca Regiane , Lustosa Francisca Geny , Nepomuceno Aleandra De Paiva
Published: January 2022

Esse artigo explicita o contexto do trabalho remoto emergencial (pandemia Covid-19) e o novo “desenho” delineado para o processo de ensino-aprendizagem. O referencial teórico contempla autores como Sperandio (2018), Silva (2010), Lévy (1999), Castells (1999), Moura (2006) e Santos (2006) para reflexões sobre cibercultura e seus dispositivos, desafios e conceitos, e Tardif (2002) sobre saberes e formação docente. Pesquisa de abordagem qualitativa, com assento na cartografia (DELEUZE; GUATARRI, 2011), constituída de narrativas das professoras-pesquisadoras-autoras, registros de diários de campo, planejamentos de aulas no âmbito do trabalho remoto, consulta a normativas, pareceres e portarias designando o ensino remoto nacional e da rede municipal de Fortaleza e informações advindas de duas outras pesquisas realizadas junto a professores(as) da educação básica, no âmbito de todo o país. As narrativas apontam para a emergência de novos saberes-fazeres, além dos desafios, considerando avanços, retrocessos e limites, dentre eles os fatores e dimensões que se tornam mais laboriosas, indicando doenças como cansaço extremo e infotoxidade. Os resultados evidenciam um processo inédito de reinvenção de saberes, em maior grau de intensidade, com apropriação de conhecimentos sobre recursos, produtos, plataformas streaming, etc. Quanto ao fazer pedagógico, vislumbramos precariedades que caracterizam o tipo de inclusão e letramento digital (subalterno, caudário e seletivo), baixas condições socioeconômicas das famílias, que repercutem em impossibilidades de acesso à internet e a equipamentos tecno-informacionais capazes de realizar produções colaborativas, em rede, com interatividade, interconectividade e hipertexto, dentre outras características alinhadas aos contextos da cibercultura.