bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sosyal Bilgiler Dersi Öğretim Programlarında Kaynaşıklık Üzerine Sistematik Bir Analiz
Authors: Bahar Yağmur , Bümen Nilay T.
Published: May 2022

Öğretim programlarında öğrenci gelişimini bütüncül bir şekilde ele almayı ve öğrenmelerin transferini sağlayan kaynaşıklık, Türkiye’de henüz yeterince incelenmemiştir. Bu çalışmada 2018 Sosyal Bilgiler dersi öğretim programlarının (SBDÖP) yatay ve dikey kaynaşıklık açısından çözümlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Doküman analizi türündeki çalışmada, ilgili alanyazından yararlanılarak oluşturulan ve uzman görüşleriyle iyileştirilen kılavuz sorular kullanılmıştır. Bulgular, SBDÖP’nin yatay kaynaşıklık açısından (disiplinlerarası özellik gösterme, aynı sınıf düzeyindeki diğer derslerle ilişkilendirme ve bütünleşme) başarılı olamadığını göstermektedir. Programda disiplinlerarası olma özelliğinin kısmen karşılandığı, diğer derslerle ilişkilerin belirli kazanım/öğrenme alanlarıyla sınırlı kaldığı belirlenmiştir. Dikey kaynaşıklıkta, farklı sınıf düzeylerinde tekrar (devam) eden kazanım, beceri, değer, öğrenme-öğretme ve ölçme değerlendirme yaklaşımı bulunmadığından, sürekliliğin zayıf olduğu ortaya çıkmıştır. Ayrıca sınıf seviyesi ilerledikçe üst düzey düşünme becerilerine doğru (çözümleme, yaratma, değerlendirme) ilerleme görülememiş tüm sınıflarda alt düzey bilişsel becerilere odaklanıldığı ortaya çıkmıştır. Kademeler arası kaynaşıklıkta, ilkokuldan ortaokula doğru gidildikçe öğrenme/öğretme yaklaşımında süreklilik sağlanmasa da kavram, beceri ve değerler arasında tutarlılık olduğu görülmüştür. Sonuç olarak, SBDÖP yatay ve dikey kaynaşıklık açısından güçlendirilmelidir.
El control de inventarios y su impacto en la liquidez de la distribuidora "Miguel Sebastián" Manabí-Ecuador 2019-2020.
Authors: Solórzano-Mendoza María , Mendoza-Vera Cristina
Published: May 2022

El control de inventarios en las organizaciones, es una herramienta que permite garantizar capacidad de liquidez en las empresas.  En este sentido, el presente artículo científico se desarrolla con el objetivo de analizar el impacto del control de inventarios en la liquidez de la distribuidora "Miguel Sebastián" Manabí-Ecuador, enmarcando el estudio en una metodología de enfoque cualitativa, exploratoria, con diseño no experimental; presentando entrevistas como técnica aplicada. Entre los principales resultados obtenidos en el estudio, se destaca que la distribuidora cuenta con una política específica para el manejo y control de los inventarios, se lleva registro de las transacciones diarias, el inventario está clasificado por códigos, sin embargo al proceder al requerimiento de compra de los clientes, en algunos casos, el sistema refleja una información diferente de las existencias que se encuentran en físico y no se tiene establecido las cantidades máximas y mininas del inventarios ocasionando acumulación de stock en bodega más allá de un nivel óptimo; por lo que es de suma importancia para la distribuidora mantener un inventario sólido que garantice los productos en existencia para poder hacer frente a la demanda de los consumidores y cubrir con sus obligaciones a corto plazo. Se concluye que un adecuado control de inventarios, contribuye a la optimización de recursos, eficiencia en las operaciones, mejoras en sus procesos internos, disminución de costos y beneficio económico, generando a las empresas aumento en su liquidez, ya que, se reduce la acumulación innecesaria de la mercancía.
Evaluation of an Increase in Roadside Drug Testing in Victoria Based on Models of the Crash Effects of Random and Targeted Roadside Tests
Authors: Cameron Max , Newstead Stuart , Clark Belinda , Thompson Luke
Published: May 2022

Drug driving continues to be overrepresented in both fatal and serious injury crashes in Victoria. As an enforcement countermeasure, preliminary oral fluid tests to detect drug driving were introduced in Victoria, Australia in December 2004. Recent research has modelled the relationships between prevalences of THC and methamphetamine in fatally and seriously injured drivers and (a) the annual numbers of random and targeted drug tests during 2010-2016 and (b) the positive detection rates from these tests. The increase in roadside drug tests in Victoria from 42,000 in 2013 (1% of licensed drivers) to 100,000 per year (2.2% of drivers), particularly targeted tests, is estimated to have saved 33 fatal crashes (13.7% reduction) and at least 80 serious injury crashes (1.4% reduction) per year. Based on the findings from this research, further increases in targeted and random roadside drug tests are warranted, up to at least 390,100 total tests per year, which are estimated to save a further 46 fatal crashes and at least a further 134 serious injury crashes per year.
Habitat preference of two sympatric coastal cetaceans in Langkawi, Malaysia, as determined by passive acoustic monitoring
Authors: Kimura SS , Sagara T , Yoda K , Ponnampalam LS
Published: May 2022

Little is known about the ecology of the Indo-Pacific finless porpoiseNeophocaena phocaenoidesor the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphinSousa chinensisin Southeast Asia. The present study describes the distribution and habitat preferences of these species around the Langkawi Archipelago of Malaysia. Vessel-based passive acoustic monitoring surveys were conducted 5 times between 2012 and 2013. Both species mainly preferred relatively shallow waters, especially on the east sides of the islands at <15 m depth. However, the species differed in number of detections and spatial distribution, preferred distance from shore, chlorophyllaconcentration in the water where they resided, and season in which they were detected, indicating that they have different habitat preferences. The best spatial habitat model for the prediction of finless porpoise distribution included bathymetric depth and longitude. The distribution of finless porpoises was relatively stable around the islands and especially in the eastern waters, whereas humpback dolphins may only seasonally visit specific regions of the waters around the islands. Their detection sites were too patchy to enable distribution modeling. The results of this study provide baseline information that can facilitate conservation planning for these species according to their habitat preferences and core areas.
Long-term assessment of the translocation of an endangered primate into an agroforestry system
Authors: Franquesa-Soler M , Aristizabal JF , Andresen E , Vélez del Burgo I , Shedden-González A , Rodríguez-Luna E
Published: May 2022

Translocation is increasingly being used as a conservation tool in wildlife management, but long-term assessments of the animals’ establishment in the new habitat are rarely done. In addition, finding protected areas for translocations can often be a limitation, but habitat patches managed for productive purposes could potentially be used for translocations. Here, we present a translocation case study of the Endangered Mexican howler monkeyAlouatta palliata mexicanainto a forest fragment managed as an agroforest in the Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve (Mexico). We compared the behavior of the translocated focal group 6 yr after translocation with that observed 1 yr after translocation (Year 1 vs. Year 6), and with reference parameters for conserved forest. We also examined the 14 yr trajectory of the translocated population through published data. We found that in Year 6, monkeys spent less time on locomotion and more time consuming fruit than in Year 1. The focal group in Year 6 had doubled its activity area compared to Year 1. All behavioral parameters during Year 6 were similar to those reported for the species in conserved forest. During the first 14 yr, the translocated population increased at a rate of 1.29 ind. yr-1. We conclude that this translocation succeeded in establishing a thriving population and that certain agroforestry systems may be adequate habitat for primate translocations. We also discuss how the translocation of howler monkeys into defaunated habitats might help restore ecological functions associated with these primates, such as the dispersal of large-seeded plants. Long-term information on successful primate translocations has high practical value for designing adequate conservation strategies in anthropogenic landscapes.
Air Traffic Controllers and Executive Brain Function
Authors: de Freitas Ângela Maria , Wetters Portuguez Mirna , Russomano Thaís , da Costa Jaderson Costa
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the executive functions of air traffic controllers (ATCs) in relation to demographic and occupational characteristics such as length of service, technical qualifications, and work shifts.

METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study based on a convenience sample with sequential selection of 52 Brazilian ATCs using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), questionnaire applied to the ATCs, Student’s t-test, and one-way analysis of variance with post hoc Tukey multiple comparisons of WCST with functional characteristics.

RESULTS: ATCs with 0 to 5 yr of service presented scores significantly above the cohort average in the WCST [0-5 yr: 0.54 ± 0.01 vs. 6-15 yr: 0.31 ± 0.52 vs. 151 yr: -0.02 ± 0.80]. ATCs working a 3-shift pattern presented an efficient performance and fewer perseverative errors in the WCST (3-shift: −0.63 ± 0.38 vs. 4-shift: −0.45 ± 0.43), that did not rise to significance. In a comparison between executive brain functions and technical qualifications, the controllers who worked in the TWR (Aerodrome Control Tower) only, and those who worked in both the TWR and APP (Approach Control Service) showed no differences in the number of completed categories and in perseverative errors.

DISCUSSION:The executive brain functioning of the ATCs, such as mental flexibility, strategic planning and inhibitory control, were identified as being above average when compared to the general population. While alterations in work shifts appear to have a negative (but nonsignificant) impact, newer ATCs showed stronger scores than more experienced ATCs on the WCST. Successful performance as an ATC has complex foundations, such as understanding the context of air navigation and having strong executive function capabilities.

de Freitas AM, Portuguez MW, Russomano, T, da Costa JC. Air traffic controllers and executive brain function. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2022; 93(5):426–432.
Visual Vestibular Conflict Mitigation in Virtual Reality Using Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation
Authors: Pradhan Gaurav N. , Galvan-Garza Raquel C. , Perez Alison M. , Stepanek Jan , Cevette Michael J.
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND: Virtual reality (VR) is an effective technique to reduce cost and increase fidelity in training programs. In VR, visual and vestibular cues are often in conflict, which may result in simulator-induced motion sickness. The purpose of this study is to investigate the integration of Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation (GVS) with a VR flight training simulator by assessing flight performance, secondary task performance, simulator sickness and presence.

METHODS: There were 20 participants who performed 2 separate VR flight simulation sessions, with and without GVS (control). Flight performance, secondary task performance, and electrogastrogram were measured during VR flight simulation. The standardized simulator sickness and presence questionnaires were administered.

RESULTS: Electrogastrogram measures such as dominant power instability coefficient (DPIC) and percentages of bradygastric waves (%B) were lower in the GVS session than the control session in the flight simulation (DPIC: 0.44 vs. 0.54; %B: 21.2% vs. 30.5%) and postflight (DPIC: 0.38 vs. 0.53; %B: 22.8% vs. 31.4%) periods. Flight performance (#hit-gates) was improved in the GVS session compared to the control (GVS: 17, Control: 15.5). Secondary task performance (%hits) was improved with GVS for the Easy task (GVS: 55.5%, Control: 43.1%).

DISCUSSION: This study demonstrates the potential of synchronizing GVS with visual stimuli in VR flight training to reduce visual-vestibular sensory conflict to improve fidelity and performance. These results provide initial evidence, but continued research is warranted to further understand the benefits and applications of GVS in VR simulator training.

Pradhan GN, Galvan-Garza RC, Perez AM, Stepanek J, Cevette MJ. Visual vestibular conflict mitigation in virtual reality using galvanic vestibular stimulation. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2022; 93(5):406–414.
Revisions to Limits for Propylene Glycol in Spacecraft Air
Authors: Ryder Valerie E. , Williams Edward S.
Published: May 2022

INTRODUCTION: The previous Spacecraft Maximal Allowable Concentrations (SMACs) for propylene glycol were established based on a study of rodents exposed to propylene glycol (PG) aerosol for 6 h/d, 5 d/wk for 90 d. This study has been used as the basis for the few existing limits, but all exposure concentrations were well above the saturated vapor concentration of ∼100 ppm for pure propylene glycol at room temperature. For this reason, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry noted that the method used to generate the aerosols for the two published studies of animal exposures are not relevant to exposure conditions for the general public, and most regulatory agencies have not established inhalation limits for propylene glycol, citing lack of data. Since publication of the PG SMACs in 2008, an acute inhalation study was conducted in healthy human subjects which allows us to revise our assessment. This manuscript provides the rationale for increasing the prior limits for PG in spacecraft air from 32 and 17 ppm to 64 and 32 ppm for off-nominal scenarios/releases (1-h and 24-h limits) and from 9, 3, and 1.5 ppm to 32 ppm for all nominal timeframes (7, 30, and 180 d). Due to a lack of longer-term exposure data, NASA has elected to eliminate the 1000-d SMAC limit at this time.

Ryder VE, Williams ES. Revisions to limits for propylene glycol in spacecraft air. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2022; 93(5):467–469.
İletişimsizliğin Çocuk Sağlığına Etkilerinden Biri: Nutrisyonel Rikets
Authors: KURT Fatih , YALÇIN Nilgün , BOLU Semih
Published: May 2022

D vitamini, parathormon ve kalsitonin ile birlikte kemik, böbrek ve bağırsak arasındaki kalsiyum (Ca)-fosfor(P) metobolizmasını ve kemik mineralizasyonunu sağlamaktadır. Nütrisyonel rikets, D vitamini ve/veya kalsiyum eksikliğine bağlı olarak büyüme plaklarında kusurlu kondrosit ve osteoid mineralizasyonundan kaynaklanır. Ülkemizde Sağlık Bakanlığı tarafından 2005 yılından itibaren ilk bir yıl tüm süt çocuklarına ücretsiz 400 IU/gün D vitamini desteği yapılmaktadır. Ülkemizde bulunan göçmen aile bebeklerine D vitamini desteği verilmesine rağmen, aileler birinci basamak sağlık merkezlerindeki görevli sağlık çalışanları ile iletişim kuramadığı için bu destek tedaviyi hangi dozda ve ne zamana kadar kullanması gerektiğini bilmemekte, eksik dozda veya kısa süreli kullanabilmektedir. Biz bu makalede nutrisyonel rikets tanısı ile tedavi verilen hastayı sunarak literatüre katkı yapmak ve göçmen aileler ile iletişim eksikliğine bağlı oluşabilecek sorunlara dikkat çekmek istedik.
Özel Eğitim Öğretmenlerinin Tükenmişlik Düzeyleri ile Memnuniyeti Arasındaki İlişki ve Deneyimleri: Karma Desen Çalışma
Authors: ÖZKAN Filiz , DAĞDELEN Derya
Published: May 2022

Amaç: Bu çalışma özel eğitim öğretmenlerinin tükenmişlik düzeyleri ve yaşam doyumları arasındaki ilişki ve deneyimlerini incelemek amacıyla yapılmıştır.

Gereç ve Yöntemler: Çalışma karma desen kullanılarak, sıralı açıklayıcı tasarımla yapılmıştır. Çalışmanın nicel kısmı 146, nitel kısmı ise 12 öğretmenle tamamlanmıştır. Araştırmanın nicel verileri; Sosyodemografik Form, Diener Yaşam Doyum Ölçeği ve Tükenmişlik Ölçeği-Kısa Formu ile toplanmıştır. Araştırmanın nitel kısmı öğretmenlerin yaşam doyumu ve tükenmişlik median puanları baz alınarak belirlenmiştir. Veriler doygunluk oranına ulaşılana kadar veri toplanmış, çalışmanın nitel kısmı oniki öğretmenle tamamlanmıştır. Öğretmenlerin deneyimleri yarı yapılandırılmış form kullanılarak derinlemesine görüşmelerle toplanmış, tematik içerik analiziyle değerlendirilmiştir.

Bulgular: Çalışmada yaşam doyumu ve tükenmişlik arasında negatif ve önemli düzeyde bir ilişki belirlenmiştir (rho=-0,310, p=0,001). Nitel kısımda dört kategori, dört tema ve temaların altında 12 kod belirlenmiştir. “Yaşamın anlamını değiştirme, çalışma isteğini artırma, sorunlarla başa çıkma ve sorun yaşamama” olmak üzere dört tema ortaya çıkmıştır. Çalışmaya katılan öğretmenlerin potansiyel engelli olma durumunu hissetme, sağlığın öneminin farkına varma, manevi olarak iyi hissetme, hayatın farkına varma ve çocukların durumunu ve masumiyetini fark etmesi nedeniyle hayatının anlamının değiştiğini belirtmiştir. Çalışmadaki öğretmenler farkındalığının artması ve güçlü olma nedeniyle çalışma şevkinin arttığını ifade etmiştir. Problemlerle başa çıkma kategorisinde öğretmenlerin destek alarak, susma-uzaklaşma-sessiz kalma yöntemlerini kullanarak, çözüm arayarak ve kabullenerek problemlerle baş etme yolları geliştirdiğini ifade etmiştir.

Sonuç: Özel eğitimde çalışan öğretmenlerin yaşam doyum ve tükenmişliklerinin belirlenerek, çalışmadaki temalar doğrultusunda eğitimler planlanması önerilebilir.
Şizofreni Tanısı ile Takip Edilen Hastalara Bakım Verenlerin Hastalığa Verdikleri Anlam ve Kullandıkları Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Yöntemlerinin Belirlenmesi
Authors: KUNDAKCI Necla , KARACA Aysel
Published: May 2022

Amaç: Bu çalışma, şizofreni tanısı ile takip edilen hastaların bakım verenlerinin şizofreni hastalığına verdiği anlam ve uyguladıkları geleneksel ve tamamlayıcı tıp uygulamalarının belirlenmesi amacıyla planlanmıştır.
Gereç ve Yöntemler: Bu çalışma kalitatif yöntemlerden derinlemesine görüşme yönteminin kullanıldığı nitel bir çalışmadır. Araştırmanın evrenini Mayıs 2018- Ağustos 2018 tarihleri arasında Bartın Devlet Hastanesi Toplum Ruh Sağlığı Merkezi'ne aktif katılım sağlayan şizofreni tanılı bireylerin bakım vericileri oluşturmuştur. Toplam 21 bakım verici ile derinlemesine görüşme yapılmıştır. Veriler tematik analiz yöntemi ile değerlendirilmiştir.
Bulgular: Bakım verenlerin yaş ortalaması 38’di. Araştırmaya dahil edilen şizofreni tanılı bireylere bakım verenlerin %74’ü kadındır. Bakım verici rolünü en çok anneler üstlenmektedir. Hastaların tamamı ilaçlarını düzenli kullanmaktadır ve çoğunluğu öz bakımını sürdürmekte zorluk çekmektedir. Verilerin değerlendirilmesi sonucunda toplam dört ana tema ortaya çıkmıştır. Bunlar; "hastalığa verilen anlam", "kullanılan GTT yöntemleri", "kullanılan GTT yönteminin sağladığı yarar", "kullanılan GTT uygulamasını sağlık ekibi ile paylaşma"dır. Hastalığa verilen anlam ana temasının alt temaları; "biyolojik bir neden mi?", "doğaüstü güçler", "bu bir sınav mı? çile mi?" olarak belirlenmiştir. Kullanılan GTT yöntemleri ana temasının alt temaları ise; "din görevlisine yönelme ile ilgili uygulamalar", "yenilen/içilen/vücuda sürülen uygulamalar", "vitamin desteği", "diğer terapiler"dir.
Sonuç: Çalışma kapsamındaki bakım vericiler hastalıkla başa çıkmakta, tanımlamakta ve anlamlandırmakta zorluk çekmektedir. Bakım vericilerin büyük çoğunluğu en az bir GTT yöntemi kullanmaktadır. Ancak kullandıkları bu yöntemler tıbbi tedavinin yanında ek olarak kullanılmaktadır. Psikiyatri birimlerinde çalışan hemşirelere, bu konu hakkında bilinçlendirilmesinde ve hastaların kullandıkları GTT yöntemleri belirlemede önemli sorumluluklar düşmektedir.
A new map of the chanonry of the cathedral church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity at Elgin, Morayshire
Authors: Firth David
Published: May 2022

In the Victorian Era, several Morayshire antiquaries attempted to reconstruct the plan of the ancient precincts, or chanonry, of the cathedral church of the Holy Trinity at Elgin. So comprehensive was their work, and such were their reputations, that little has been done since to re-examine their legacy. A discovery in the library of the University of Aberdeen has led to a review of the work that has previously been accepted as showing the layout of the cathedral precincts. It has necessitated the production of a definitive list of the prebends of the cathedral and has provided information regarding some of the chaplainries that were within it. A modified map of the chanonry has been produced based on a previous version which was published by Charles Rampini.
Decellularization of Porcine Carotid Arteries: From the Vessel to the High-Quality Scaffold in Five Hours
Authors: Massaro Maria Stefania , Kochová Petra , Pálek Richard , Rosendorf Jáchym , Červenková Lenka , Dahmen Uta , Liška Václav , Moulisová Vladimíra
Published: May 2022

The use of biologically derived vessels as small-diameter vascular grafts in vascular diseases is currently intensely studied. Vessel decellularization provides a biocompatible scaffold with very low immunogenicity that avoids immunosuppression after transplantation. Good scaffold preservation is important as it facilitates successful cell repopulation. In addition, mechanical characteristics have to be carefully evaluated when the graft is intended to be used as an artery due to the high pressures the vessel is subjected to. Here, we present a new and fast decellularization protocol for porcine carotid arteries, followed by investigation of the quality of obtained vessel scaffolds in terms of maintenance of important extracellular matrix components, mechanical resistance, and compatibility with human endothelial cells. Our results evidence that our decellularization protocol minimally alters both the presence of scaffold proteins and their mechanical behavior and human endothelial cells could adhere to the scaffold in vitro. We conclude that if a suitable protocol is used, a high-quality decellularized arterial scaffold of non-human origin can be promptly obtained, having a great potential to be recellularized and used as an arterial graft in transplantation medicine.
Production of Gluconic Acid and Its Derivatives by Microbial Fermentation: Process Improvement Based on Integrated Routes
Authors: Ma Yan , Li Bing , Zhang Xinyue , Wang Chao , Chen Wei
Published: May 2022

Gluconic acid (GA) and its derivatives, as multifunctional biological chassis compounds, have been widely used in the food, medicine, textile, beverage and construction industries. For the past few decades, the favored production means of GA and its derivatives are microbial fermentation using various carbon sources containing glucose hydrolysates due to high-yield GA production and mature fermentation processes. Advancements in improving fermentation process are thriving which enable more efficient and economical industrial fermentation to produce GA and its derivatives, such as the replacement of carbon sources with agro-industrial byproducts and integrated routes involving genetically modified strains, cascade hydrolysis or micro- and nanofiltration in a membrane unit. These efforts pave the way for cheaper industrial fermentation process of GA and its derivatives, which would expand the application and widen the market of them. This review summarizes the recent advances, points out the existing challenges and provides an outlook on future development regarding the production of GA and its derivatives by microbial fermentation, aiming to promote the combination of innovative production of GA and its derivatives with industrial fermentation in practice.
Parallel Evaluation of Polyethylene Glycol Conformal Coating and Alginate Microencapsulation as Immunoisolation Strategies for Pancreatic Islet Transplantation
Authors: De Toni Teresa , Stock Aaron A. , Devaux Floriane , Gonzalez Grisell C. , Nunez Kailyn , Rubanich Jessica C. , Safley Susan A. , Weber Collin J. , Ziebarth Noel M. , Buchwald Peter , Tomei Alice A.
Published: May 2022

Pancreatic islet transplantation improves metabolic control and prevents complications in patients with brittle type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, chronic immunosuppression is required to prevent allograft rejection and recurrence of autoimmunity. Islet encapsulation may eliminate the need for immunosuppression. Here, we analyzed in parallel two microencapsulation platforms that provided long-term diabetes reversal in preclinical T1D models, alginate single and double capsules versus polyethylene glycol conformal coating, to identify benefits and weaknesses that could inform the design of future clinical trials with microencapsulated islets. We performed in vitro and in vivo functionality assays with human islets and analyzed the explanted grafts by immunofluorescence. We quantified the size of islets and capsules, measured capsule permeability, and used these data for in silico simulations of islet functionality in COMSOL Multiphysics. We demonstrated that insulin response to glucose stimulation is dependent on capsule size, and the presence of permselective materials augments delays in insulin secretion. Non-coated and conformally coated islets could be transplanted into the fat pad of diabetic mice, resulting in comparable functionality and metabolic control. Mac-2+ cells were found in conformally coated grafts, indicating possible host reactivity. Due to their larger volume, alginate capsules were transplanted in the peritoneal cavity. Despite achieving diabetes reversal, changes in islet composition were found in retrieved capsules, and recipient mice experienced hypoglycemia indicative of hyperinsulinemia induced by glucose retention in large capsules as the in silico model predicted. We concluded that minimal capsule size is critical for physiological insulin secretion, and anti-inflammatory modulation may be beneficial for small conformal capsules.
Influence of Shod and Barefoot Running on the In Vivo Kinematics of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint
Authors: Zhang Faning , Ye Dongqiang , Zhang Xini , Sun Xiaole , Zhang Shen , Wang Shaobai , Fu Weijie
Published: May 2022

The biomechanics of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) is affected by different shoe conditions. In the biomechanical research field, traditional skin marker motion capture cannot easily acquire the in vivo joint kinematics of the first MTPJ in shoes. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the differences of the first MTPJ’s six-degree-of-freedom (6DOF) kinematics between shod and barefoot running by using a high-speed dual fluoroscopic imaging system (DFIS). In total, 15 healthy male runners were recruited. Computed tomography scans were taken from each participant’s right foot for the construction of 3D models and local coordinate systems. Radiographic images were acquired at 100 Hz while the participants ran at a speed of 3 m/s ± 5% in shod and barefoot conditions along an elevated runway, and 6DOF kinematics of the first MTPJ were calculated by 3D–2D registration. Paired sample t-tests were used to compare the kinematic characteristics of the first MTPJ 6DOF kinematics during the stance phase between shod and barefoot conditions. Compared with barefoot, wearing shoes showed significant changes (p < 0.05): 1) the first MTPJ moved less inferior at 50% but moved less superior at 90 and 100% of the stance phase; 2) the peak medial, posterior, and superior translation of the first MTPJ significantly decreased in the shod condition; 3) the extension angle of the first MTPJ was larger at 30–60% but smaller at 90 and 100% of the stance phase; 4) the maximum extension angle and flexion/extension range of motion of the first MTPJ were reduced; and 5) the minimum extension and adduction angle of the first MTPJ was increased in the shod condition. On the basis of the high-speed DFIS, the aforementioned results indicated that wearing shoes limited the first MTPJ flexion and extension movement and increased the adduction angle, suggesting that shoes may affect the propulsion of the first MTPJ and increase the risk of hallux valgus.
From Bench to Bed: The Current Genome Editing Therapies for Glaucoma
Authors: He Meihui , Rong Rong , Ji Dan , Xia Xiaobo
Published: May 2022

Glaucoma is a group of optic neuropathies featured by degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and loss of their axons in the optic nerve. The only currently approved therapies focus on lowering intraocular pressure with medication and surgery. Over the previous few decades, technological advances and research progress regarding pathogenesis has brought glaucomatous gene therapy to the forefront. In this review, we discuss the three current genome editing methods and potential disease mechanisms of glaucoma. We further summarize different genome editing strategies that are being developed to target a number of glaucoma-related genes and pathways from four aspects including strategies to lower intraocular pressure, neuroprotection, RGC and optic nerve neuro-regeneration, and other strategies. In summary, genome therapy is a promising therapy for treating patients with glaucoma and has great potential to be widely applied in clinical practice.
Bacteriocin-Producing Probiotic Lactic Acid Bacteria in Controlling Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota
Authors: Anjana  , Tiwari Santosh Kumar
Published: May 2022

Several strains of lactic acid bacteria are potent probiotics and can cure a variety of diseases using different modes of actions. These bacteria produce antimicrobial peptides, bacteriocins, which inhibit or kill generally closely related bacterial strains and other pathogenic bacteria such as Listeria, Clostridium, and Salmonella. Bacteriocins are cationic peptides that kill the target cells by pore formation and the dissipation of cytosolic contents, leading to cell death. Bacteriocins are also known to modulate native microbiota and host immunity, affecting several health-promoting functions of the host. In this review, we have discussed the ability of bacteriocin-producing probiotic lactic acid bacteria in the modulation of gut microbiota correcting dysbiosis and treatment/maintenance of a few important human disorders such as chronic infections, inflammatory bowel diseases, obesity, and cancer.
E3 Ligase FBXW7 Facilitates Mycobacterium Immune Evasion by Modulating TNF-α Expression
Authors: Song Jingrui , Chao Jin , Hu Xiaohong , Wen Xin , Ding Cairong , Li Dan , Zhang Ding , Han Shanshan , Yu Xiang , Yan Bo , Jin Zhu , Song Yinhong , Gonzales Jacqueline , Via Laura E. , Zhang Lu , Wang Decheng
Published: May 2022

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is a crucial factor in the control of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. Pathogenic mycobacteria can inhibit and/or regulate host cell TNF-α production in a variety of ways to evade antituberculosis (anti-TB) immunity as well as facilitate immune escape. However, the mechanisms by which TNF-α expression in host cells is modulated to the benefit of mycobacteria is still an interesting topic and needs further study. Here, we report that macrophages infected with Mycobacterium marinum (Mm)—a close relative of Mtb—upregulated the expression of E3 ubiquitin ligase FBXW7. Specific silencing FBXW7 with small interfering RNA (siRNA) significantly elevates TNF-α expression and eventually promotes the elimination of intracellular bacteria. In turn, overexpression of FBXW7 in Raw264.7 macrophages markedly decreased TNF-α production. Furthermore, partial inhibition of FBXW7 in an Mm-infected murine model significantly reduced TNF-α tissue content, alleviated tissue damage as well as reduced the bacterial load of mouse tails. Finally, FBXW7 could decrease TNF-α in a K63-linked ubiquitin signaling dependent manner. Taken together, our study uncovered a previously unknown role of FBXW7 in regulating TNF-α dynamics during mycobacterial infection, which provides new insights into understanding the role of FBXW7 in anti-tuberculosis immunity and its related clinical significance.
Features of Epstein–Barr Virus and Cytomegalovirus Reactivation in Acute Leukemia Patients After Haplo-HCT With Myeloablative ATG-Containing Conditioning Regimen
Authors: Ru Yuhua , Zhu Jinjin , Song Tiemei , Ding Yiyang , Zhu Ziling , Fan Yi , Xu Yang , Sun Aining , Qiu Huiying , Jin Zhengming , Tang Xiaowen , Han Yue , Fu Chengcheng , Chen Suning , Ma Xiao , Chen Feng , Chen Jia , Wu Depei
Published: May 2022

Background

Haploidentical donor hematopoietic cell transplantation (haplo-HCT) has become a preferred option for patients without HLA-matched donors, but it increases the risk of viral reactivations. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) are common viruses post-HCT, but limited data have been reported in the setting of haplo-HCT.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study enrolling acute leukemia patients who received haplo-HCT with myeloablative conditioning regimen employing ATG in our center from July 2014 to July 2017. All the patients enrolled were EBV-IgM and EBV-DNA negative but EBV-IgG positive, and so were their donors. The same went for CMV as well.

Results

In total, 602 patients were recruited consisting of 331 with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and 271 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). One-year cumulative incidences of EBV (22.9% ± 2.4% vs. 27.4% ± 2.8%, P = 0.169) and CMV (24.7% ± 2.4% vs. 29.4% ± 2.8%, P = 0.190) reactivation were comparable between AML and ALL. EBV and CMV were independent risk factors for each other. In the AML group, male recipients [HR = 1.275, 95% CI (1.001–1.624), P = 0.049] and acute graft-versus-host disease [HR = 1.592, 95% CI (1.001–2.533), P = 0.049] were independent risk factors for EBV reactivation and CMV reactivation, respectively. CMV rather than EBV reactivation was related to a trend of worsened treatment-related mortality (TRM) (15.6% ± 0.1% vs. 10.2% ± 0.0%, P = 0.067) and progression-free survival (PFS) (60.6% ± 4.1% vs. 70.3% ± 2.3%, P = 0.073), while significant impacts were revealed only in the subgroup analysis. CMV reactivation resulted in a remarkable inferior 2-year overall survival (OS) (64.2% ± 5.7% vs. 77.6% ± 3.2%, P = 0.038) and PFS (55.0% ± 5.9% vs. 71.9% ± 3.4%, P = 0.042) in ALL patients. On the other hand, in the EBV+/CMV− subgroup, relapse was lower in ALL patients (8.2% ± 0.2% vs. 32.4% ± 0.8%, P = 0.010) compared with AML patients, which led to a superior 2-year OS (82.0% ± 6.2% vs. 60.3% ± 8.8%, P = 0.016) and PFS (74.5% ± 7.0% vs. 57.5% ± 8.4%, P = 0.036).

Conclusion

We concluded that EBV and CMV reactivations were frequent in acute leukemia patients after haplo-HCT, with possibly distinctive risk factors from HLA-matched HCT. There could be a potential interaction between EBV and CMV, but impacts on transplant outcomes remained complex.
In Vitro Antifungal Activity of Ibrexafungerp (SCY-078) Against Contemporary Blood Isolates From Medically Relevant Species of Candida: A European Study
Authors: Quindós Guillermo , Miranda-Cadena Katherine , San-Millán Rosario , Borroto-Esoda Katyna , Cantón Emilia , Linares-Sicilia María José , Hamprecht Axel , Montesinos Isabel , Tortorano Anna Maria , Prigitano Anna , Vidal-García Matxalen , Marcos-Arias Cristina , Guridi Andrea , Sanchez-Reus Ferran , Machuca-Bárcena Jesús , Rodríguez-Iglesias Manuel Antonio , Martín-Mazuelos Estrella , Castro-Méndez Carmen , López-Soria Leyre , Ruiz-Gaitán Alba , Fernandez-Rivero Marcelo , Lorenzo Damaris , Capilla Javier , Rezusta Antonio , Pemán Javier , Guarro Josep , Pereira Joana , Pais Célia , Romeo Orazio , Ezpeleta Guillermo , Jauregizar Nerea , Angulo David , Eraso Elena
Published: May 2022

Background

Ibrexafungerp (SCY-078) is the newest oral and intravenous antifungal drug with broad activity, currently undergoing clinical trials for invasive candidiasis.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the in vitro activity of ibrexafungerp and comparators against a collection of 434 European blood isolates of Candida.

Methods

Ibrexafungerp, caspofungin, fluconazole, and micafungin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were collected from 12 European laboratories for 434 blood isolates, including 163 Candida albicans, 108 Candida parapsilosis, 60 Candida glabrata, 40 Candida tropicalis, 29 Candida krusei, 20 Candida orthopsilosis, 6 Candida guilliermondii, 2 Candida famata, 2 Candida lusitaniae, and 1 isolate each of Candida bracarensis, Candida catenulata, Candida dubliniensis, and Candida kefyr. MICs were determined by the EUCAST broth microdilution method, and isolates were classified according to recommended clinical breakpoints and epidemiological cutoffs. Additionally, 22 Candida auris from different clinical specimens were evaluated.

Results

Ibrexafungerp MICs ranged from 0.016 to ≥8 mg/L. The lowest ibrexafungerp MICs were observed for C. albicans (geometric MIC 0.062 mg/L, MIC range 0.016–0.5 mg/L) and the highest ibrexafungerp MICs were observed for C. tropicalis (geometric MIC 0.517 mg/L, MIC range 0.06–≥8 mg/L). Modal MICs/MIC50s (mg/L) against Candida spp. were 0.125/0.06 for C. albicans, 0.5/0.5 for C. parapsilosis, 0.25/0.25 for C. glabrata, 0.5/0.5 for C. tropicalis, 1/1 for C. krusei, 4/2 for C. orthopsilosis, and 0.5/0.5 for C. auris. Ibrexafungerp showed activity against fluconazole- and echinocandin-resistant isolates. If adopting wild-type upper limits, a non-wild-type phenotype for ibrexafungerp was only observed for 16/434 (3.7%) isolates: 11 (4.6%) C. parapsilosis, 4 (5%) C. glabrata, and 1 (2.5%) C. tropicalis.

Conclusion

Ibrexafungerp showed a potent in vitro activity against Candida.
To Critique Crisis Communication as a Social Practice: An Integrated Framework
Authors: Wang Huabin
Published: May 2022

Recent years have witnessed a flourishing development in the field of Public Relations (hereinafter as PR), which adjusts its scholarly attention from the quantitatively inclined studies on behavioral effectiveness to more of a critical discussion about social power and ideological influence within PR practice, consequently in favor of an interpretivist approach with a qualitative methodology toward a holistic analysis of a series of PR performances. Driven by the rise of this critical perspective in qualitative PR research, this paper aims to argue for a critical PR approach, tentatively by integrating a linguistic perspective from Critical Discourse Studies to discuss crisis communication as a social practice. Technically drawing on the theories of Political Public Relations (PPR in short) and Critical Discourse Studies, the proposed framework attaches equal importance to ideology, power, and identity instead of merely management function. It is illustrated that a critical investigation of PR performances approaches both media and institutional discourses, which are constructed by different social actors to frame a crisis and issue immediate responses, exercise its power control and maintain stakeholder relationships, and ultimately restore media and institutional images. On the one hand, the embedded ideologies enacted by the institutional control the media power and construct positive image representations. On the other hand, in order to exercise its administrative control, the institution must emphasize the need for all the stakeholders and the affected group to devote to resolving the crisis. The paper then concludes that the integrated framework together with the qualitative method of linguistic analysis offers PR scholars insights into the relationship between discourse, ideology, and crisis communication, as well as proposes implications on the interdisciplinary research from which general qualitative researchers could benefit. Hopefully, this integrated approach to crisis communication will contribute to broadening the research scope of analyzing communication as a social practice toward a comprehensive model.
Device-Related Complications and Inappropriate Therapies Among Subcutaneous vs. Transvenous Implantable Defibrillator Recipients: Insight Monaldi Rhythm Registry
Authors: Russo Vincenzo , Rago Anna , Ruggiero Vincenzo , Cavaliere Francesca , Bianchi Valter , Ammendola Ernesto , Papa Andrea Antonio , Tavoletta Vincenzo , De Vivo Stefano , Golino Paolo , D'Onofrio Antonio , Nigro Gerardo
Published: May 2022

Introduction

In the context of randomized clinical trials, subcutaneous implantable cardiac defibrillators (S-ICDs) are non-inferior to transvenous ICDs (T-ICDs) concerning device-related complications or inappropriate shocks in patients with an indication for defibrillator therapy and not in need of pacing. We aimed at describing the clinical features of patients who underwent S-ICD implantation in our clinical practice, as well as the ICD-related complications and the inappropriate therapies among S-ICD vs. T-ICD recipients during a long-term follow-up.

Materials and Methods

All patients undergoing ICD, both S-ICD and TV-ICD, at Monaldi Hospital from January 1, 2015 to January 1, 2019 and followed up at our institution were included in the present analysis. The clinical variables associated with S-ICD implantation were evaluated by logistic regression analyses. We collected the ICD inappropriate therapies, ICD-related complications (including both pulse generator and lead-related complications), ICD-related infections, appropriate ICD therapies, and overall mortality. Kaplan-Meier (KM) analyses were performed to assess the risk of clinical outcome events between the two subgroups. A time-dependent Cox regression analysis was performed to adjust the results.

Results

Total 607 consecutive patients (mean age 53.8 ± 16.8, male 77.8%) with both TV-ICD (n: 290, 47.8%) and S-ICD (n: 317, 52.2%), implanted and followed at our center for a mean follow-up of 1614 ± 1018 days, were included in the study. At multivariate logistic regression analysis, an independent association between S-ICD implantation and ionic channel disease [OR: 6.01 (2.26–15.87); p < 0.0001] and ischemic cardiomyopathy [OR: 0.20 (0.12–0.35); p < 0.0001] was shown. The KM analysis did not show a significantly different risk of the inappropriate ICD therapies (log rank p = 0.64) between the two subgroups; conversely, a significant increase in the risk of ICD-related complications (log rank p = 0.02) and infections (log rank p = 0.02) in TV-ICD group was shown. The adjusted risk for ICD-related infections [OR: 0.07 (0.009–0.55), p = 0.01] and complications [0.31 (0.12–0.81), p = 0.01] was significantly lower among patients with S-ICD.

Conclusions

The choice to implant S-ICD was mainly driven by younger age and the presence of ionic channel disease; conversely ischemic cardiomyopathy reduces the probability to use this technology. No significant differences in inappropriate ICD therapies were shown among S-ICD vs. TV-ICD group; moreover, S-ICD is characterized by a lower rate of infectious and non-infectious complications leading to surgical revision or extraction.
Carotid Plaque Composition and the Importance of Non-Invasive in Imaging Stroke Prevention
Authors: Geiger Martin Andreas , Flumignan Ronald Luiz Gomes , Sobreira Marcone Lima , Avelar Wagner Mauad , Fingerhut Carla , Stein Sokrates , Guillaumon Ana Terezinha
Published: May 2022

Luminal stenosis has been the standard feature for the current management strategies in patients with atherosclerotic carotid disease. Histological and imaging studies show considerable differences between plaques with identical degrees of stenosis. They indicate that specific plaque characteristics like Intraplaque hemorrhage, Lipid Rich Necrotic Core, Plaque Inflammation, Thickness and Ulceration are responsible for the increased risk of ischemic events. Intraplaque hemorrhage is defined by the accumulation of blood components within the plaque, Lipid Rich Necrotic Core is composed of macrophages loaded with lipid, Plaque Inflammation is defined as the process of atherosclerosis itself and Plaque thickness and Ulceration are defined as morphological features. Advances in imaging methods like Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Ultrasound, Computed Tomography and Positron Emission Tomography have enabled a more detailed characterization of the plaque, and its vulnerability is linked to these characteristics, changing the management of these patients based only on the degree of plaque stenosis. Studies like Rotterdam, ARIC, PARISK, CAPIAS and BIOVASC were essential to evaluate and prove the relevance of these characteristics with cerebrovascular symptoms. A better approach for the prevention of stroke is needed. This review summarizes the more frequent carotid plaque features and the available validation from recent studies with the latest evidence.
Types and Eruption Patterns of the Carboniferous Volcanic Edifices in the Shixi Area, Junggar Basin
Authors: Yiming Abulimiti , Bian Baoli , Liu Longsong , Chen Hailong , Shan Xuanlong , Li Ang , Yi Jian
Published: May 2022

The types of volcanic edifices and volcanic eruption patterns control the accumulation and distribution of oil and gas. By means of drillings, seismic data, and geochemical analysis, the types and distribution of the Carboniferous volcanic edifices in the Shixi area of Junggar Basin were studied, the formation mechanism of magma was clarified, and the eruption patterns of volcanoes were investigated. The results show that the types of the Carboniferous volcanic edifices in the Shixi area mainly include stratovolcanic edifices, shield basic volcanic edifices, and mound superimposed volcanic edifices. Stratovolcanic edifices and mound superimposed volcanic edifices are developed around the Shixi fault, while single stratovolcanic edifices are developed around the Mobei fault. Shield basic volcanic edifices are only developed in the south of the Shixi area. Vertically, volcanic edifices are mainly developed on the hanging walls of the faults. When the faults develop, the volcanic vents are dendritic, forming mound superimposed volcanic edifices in space. On the plane, there are more volcanic edifices in the Shixi salient than in the Mobei salient. Intermediate-acid volcanic edifices are distributed in beaded shapes along one side of the Shixi fault and the Mobei fault, while basic volcanic edifices are distributed in sheet shapes on both sides of the Dinan fault. In the early Carboniferous, the Shixi area was in the island arc environment under the subduction of the oceanic crust. The basic magma came from the melting of the subduction plate, and the intermediate-acid magma came from the partial melting of the crust. In the late Carboniferous, the extensional environment formed by the retraction of the subduction plate led to the formation of large-scale volcanic eruptions. The extensional environment formed by the retreat of the subduction plate in the later stage resulted in large-scale volcanic eruptions.
The Problems of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Higher Education
Authors: Salakhova Valentina B. , Shukshina Liudmila V. , Belyakova Natalia V. , Kidinov Alexey V. , Morozova Natalia S. , Osipova Natalia V.
Published: May 2022

Since the outbreak of the pandemic COVID-19, many studies have been conducted to examine how education has responded to the challenges of a completely new situation that has led to the spread of distance education as the only form of instruction. In this study, data were collected and analyzed to understand the difficulties of distance education that higher education students faced during the pandemic. Our goal was to present the results of a socio-psychological study of accessibility, educational resources, applications, and distance learning technologies. A total of 160 students from different Moscow universities participated in the study. A qualitative research method was used for the study. For this purpose, mainly in-depth interviews were conducted to find out the participants’ views on distance education. The data obtained were analyzed by the researchers using qualitative analysis methods. The results showed that all students faced technical difficulties during distance learning, such as poor internet connection, lack of access to online platforms due to the high number of users, lack of necessary equipment, and individual space for online learning. The results also showed low technical readiness for distance education and low quality of online resources, as well as cyber threats during online courses. In addition, the results showed that most students indicated that they would prefer a hybrid form of instruction that combines distance and face-to-face instruction. Implications for further studies are drawn in the conclusion.