bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Features of the immunoreactivity T and B lymphocytes subpopulations and cytokine imbalance in patients with hepatosplenomegaly of different etiology
Authors: Klimova O. M. , Kordon T. I. , Sushkov S. V. , Drozdova L. A. , Lavinska O. V. , Merezhko O. S. , Bychenko K. O.
Published: October 2021

The aim was to study the mechanisms of immunological dysregulation of cytokine and immunoglobulin production, changes in the CD expression of T and B lymphocyte subpopulations in patients with hepatosplenomegaly of different etiology.
Materials and methods. We examined 73 patients with liver cirrhosis complicated by portal hypertension, hepatosplenomegaly, and bleeding from phlebectasia. We identified three groups of patients depending on the triggering factors of cirrhosis: the first (I) group – HBV/HCV; the second (II) group – CMV/VEB; the third (III) group – hereditary enzymopathies. The study material was lymphocytes and blood serum. We used the methods of ELISA, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry.
Results. An increase in the concentration of IgA and IgM was revealed against the background of normal number of CD22+ B lymphocytes with HBV/HCV (I group), high level of IgM and their producers, B lymphocytes, with CMV/VEB (II group), in group III with hereditary enzymopathies, the concentration of all immunoglobulins was normal with an increased content of B lymphocytes. Multidirectional changes in the content of cytokines were revealed: in group I the synthesis of anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4, IL-10 and in group II – pro-inflammatory IL-1β, INF-γ, TNF-α dominated; in group III the concentration of IL-6 and vascular growth factor (VEGF) was maximally increased. The number of activated CD3+CD4+CD25+ T cells was reduced in groups I and II – by 2.3 and 2.0 times respectively, in group III – increased by 1.2 times. The number of regulatory T lymphocytes CD3+CD4+CD25+CD127neg was reduced by half in I and II groups. Expression of co-stimulatory molecules CD3+CD4+CD28+ was low in all groups and the maximum decrease was in group III. In patients with HCV/HBV, an increase in the expression of the late activation marker of lymphocytes CD3+HLA-DR+ by an average of 63 % was noted.
Conclusions. The revealed immune disorders in hepatosplenomegaly of different etiology are characterized by multidirectional changes. Approaches to the treatment of these patients should be complex, taking into account the trigger factors that cause dysregulation of immune responses, which leads to further destruction, and focuses at remodeling target organs.
Immunohistochemical features of gastrointestinal stromal tumors and the role of expression of p16ink4A, Ki-67, VEGF and MMP-9 in their behavior
Authors: Yakovtsova I. I. , Miroshnichenko Ya. M. , Chertenko T. M.
Published: October 2021

Aim: to clarify the prognostic value of cytoplasmic p16ink4A, VEGF, MMP-9 and Ki-67 expressions in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and connection of different levels of these markers expression with aggressive transformation of GISTs.
Materials and methods. Our study included 36 samples of primary tumors and 10 relapses of GIST and metastases in liver after primary combined treatment (surgery and chemotherapy with imatinib). The immunohistochemical study was performed with 4 primary antibodies: Ki-67, p16ink4A, VEGF and MMP-9. We used formalin fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue samples for immunohistochemical study.
Results. In our study we showed significant connection between levels of cytoplasmic expression of p16ink4A in primary GISTs and such markers of tumor aggressive behaviour as Ki-67, MMP-9 and VEGF (Fisher’s exact P-value = 0.000753; 0.000101 and 0.000048 respectively). Between cytoplasmic expression of p16ink4A and VEGF and also between p16ink4A and MMP-9 strong direct correlation was found (γ = 0.829, P < 0.05 and rs = 0.961, P < 0.05 respectively). The correlation between expression of Ki-67 and p16ink4A was also direct and strong (rs = 0.754, P < 0.05), but with some exclusions, that’s why this correlation needs further investigation in larger groups with preciser molecular analysis. Analysis of metastatic GISTs samples showed prominent levels of MMP-9 and VEGF expression.
Conclusions. Our study has shown very important role of cytoplasmic expression of p16ink4A in GIST as one of the markers of aggressive behavior, which can be used in complex with other markers for more accurate prognosis of GISTs progression. Prominent levels of MMP-9 and VEGF expression in metastatic GISTs can be a marker of resistance to imatinib. So probably evaluation of MMP-9 and VEGF expression can be used as a tool for correct choice of chemotherapy for patients with GISTs.
Investigation of catalytic oxidation of 4-nitroethylbenzene by ozone to 4-nitroacetophenone – an intermediate in the synthesis of antibiotics
Authors: Halstyan A. H. , Bushuiev A. S.
Published: October 2021

4-Nitroacetophenone is an important intermediate for the manufacture of broad-spectrum antibiotics, in particular chloramphenicol. Existing methods of ketone synthesis are imperfect. The disadvantage of the simplest of them (the oxidation of 4-nitroethylbenzene by oxygen at atmospheric pressure and temperature of 135 °C, in the presence of manganese oxide) is the low yield and the need for the process in a heterogeneous environment. Therefore, the development of affordable and inexpensive ways to obtain 4-nitroacetophenone is an actual task.
The aim of the work is to investigate the products and kinetics of the reaction of catalytic oxidation of 4-nitroethylbenzene by ozone in acetic acid and to develop a new low-temperature synthesis of 4-nitroacetophenone.
Materials and methods. The experiments were used 4-nitroethylbenzene, 4-nitroacetophenone and 1-(4-nitrophenyl)ethanol by company Acros organics qualification “puriss.”; manganese (II) acetate qualification “puriss.”; as a solvent – glacial acetic acid by company Sigma qualification “puriss.”.
A spectrophotometric method was used to continuously monitor the current concentration of ozone in the gas phase. A Teflon flow cell with quartz windows was installed in the measuring chamber of the SF-46 LOMO spectrophotometer, which allowed the measurement of the optical density of the gas flow in the UV region. The concentration of ozone at the inlet and outlet of the reactor was determined by recording the results on the potentiometer KSP-4 in the form of an ozonogram when passing ozone-containing gas through a cuvette at a wavelength of a monochromatic light source 254–256 nm. The quantitative content of the reaction mixture was performed using gas-liquid chromatography, calculations of the concentration of components were performed by the method of internal standard.
Results. The products and kinetics of the reaction of ozone with 4-nitro-ethylbenzene in the presence of a catalyst – manganese (II) acetate were studied. It was found that at a temperature of 20 °C the oxidation process proceeds mainly along the side chain, while the yield of 4-nitroacetophenone reaches 98.5 %, also the system identified trace amounts of 1-(4-nitrophenyl)ethanol. This fact is explained by the fact that ozone under catalysis conditions preferably reacts not with the substrate, but with Mn (II) with the formation of the active form of Mn (IV) which, in turn, is reduced by reaction with 4-nitroethylbenzene, and thus initiates oxidation of the substrate. on the side chain.
Conclusions. Catalytic oxidation of 4-nitroethylbenzene by ozone in acetic acid solution proceeds mainly along the side chain to form 4-nitroacetophenone with a yield of 98.5 %. The optimum reaction temperature is 20–30 °C, as its increase deepens the oxidation process and the ketone begins to be converted into 4-nitrobenzoic acid.
Chromato-mass-spectroscopic research of chemical composition of Elaeagnus angustifolia L.
Authors: Panasenko O. I. , Mozul V. I. , Denysenko O. M. , Aksonova I. I. , Oberemko T. V.
Published: October 2021

The aim of the work was chromato-mass-spectroscopic research of chemical composition of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. fruits and leaves and identifying further prospects for the use of this plant in medicine.
Materials and methods. Raw materials of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. were selected as objects of study. The tincture was obtained by maceration and the raw material was extracted with methyl alcohol at room temperature for 10 days according to the method of making tinctures. The study of the chemical composition of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. was carried out using gas chromatograph Agilent 7890B GC System (Agilent, Santa Clara, CA, USA) with mass spectrometric detector Agilent 5977 BGC/MSD (Agilent, Santa Clara, CA, USA) and chromatographic column DB-5ms (30 m × 250 mkm × 0,25 mkm).
Results. 23 compounds (1 in the isomeric state) in fruits and 20 compounds (2 in the isomeric state) in the leaf of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. were identified. The main components of fruits were sitosterol (phytosterols) – 12.53 %, propyl acetate (esters of carboxylic acids) – 12.60 %, chamazulene (terpenes) – 11.97 % and palmitic acid (fatty acids) – 8.28 %. The main component of leaves were sitosterol (phytosterols) – 17.57 %, 1-(2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-ethanone (ketone) – 8.35 %, phytol (terpenes) – 6.10 %.
It is known from the literature that chamazulene has antioxidant, antinociceptive, cytotoxic activity. Sitosterol has anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic activity. Hexadecanoic (palmitic) acid has antimicrobial, antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. Phytol is characterized by a wide range of biological action – antimicrobial, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and cytotoxic.
Conclusions. Based on the above, the olive can be considered as a source of antimicrobial, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic and cytotoxic drugs.
The impacts of COVID-19 on the sustainable management of the forestry sector in Southern Africa
Authors: Chirwa P.W. , Kamwi J.M. , Kabia G. , Makhubele L. , Sagona W. , Matakala N. , Gondo P.
Published: October 2021

The objective of the study was to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sustainable forest management in southern Africa. The study employed a targeted approach, also referred to as purposive sampling, to select respondents from the various sectors. The results show that COVID-19
had an 80% impact on forest management operations. The COVID-19 pandemic did not have a significant effect on the conversion of land from forest to other land uses. However, there was severe illegal logging and moderate to severe fires. The COVID-19 pandemic also had a severe impact on the
agriculture, environment and ecotourism sectors, with nature reserves completely closed. From the forest production perspective, the impact of COVID-19 on production, supply, demand and the price of timber was generally low due to the commercial nature of the forestry sector in South Africa;
the largest economy in SADC being classified as an essential sector.
Házassági formák és női vagyonjog a magyar társadalomfejlődés korai szakaszában
Authors: Gáspár Gabriella
Published: October 2021

In the early Hungarian society, multiple forms of cohabitation and marriage were present, often overlapping each other. Separating these forms can only be done by examining certain elements of matrimonial property laws formed by the customary laws of the time. We can only learn about the property laws during the Era of the Arpad Dynasty from written deeds about how these laws were implemented. This study outlines how the different forms of marriage were related to each other and to the property rights of women. It is inaccurate to believe that women in the Middle Ages were disenfranchised, the various forms of marriage had corresponding property laws. Each law and the frequency of their occurrence in these examined documents is discussed in the conceptual system of legal and social history.
Comparison and Evaluation of Different Test Methods and Models for Determining Zero Shear Viscosity of Asphalt Binder
Authors: Wang Honglei , Liu Jianfeng , Qin Hua , Wang Xue , Tao Zhuohui , Shen Shihui
Published: October 2021

Zero shear viscosity (ZSV) has been proven to be a reasonable indicator for characterizing the high-temperature performance of asphalt binders. Various test methods and models have been used in the literature to determine the ZSV, while no consistent result can be obtained. In addition, the differences and similarities among these methods are not yet clear, which can often bring difficulties and confusion to researchers when trying to implement the ZSV methods. This paper aims to evaluate the applicability of different test methods and rheological models in determining the ZSVs of asphalts. The shear rate sweep test, frequency sweep test, and creep test were performed on 60/80 and 80/100 pen grade base asphalts and styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified asphalt, and ZSVs were determined using Carreau’s model, Carreau-Yasuda model, Cross/Sybilski’s model, Cross/Williamson’s model, Burger’s model, the threshold method, and the ratio method. The test results showed that the shear rate sweep test and the creep test have lower variability and better applicability than the frequency sweep test, and the four rheological models and the threshold method used in the shear rate sweep test could determine the ZSV well. In the frequency sweep test, the Cross/Sybilski’s model failed to determine the ZSVs of all asphalts, and the ZSV of SBS asphalt could only be calculated by the ratio method. Under different test methods and models, the ZSVs of each base asphalt were similar, while that of SBS asphalt were significantly different. Considering the time consumption and applicability of the test, the shear rate sweep test seems to be the most promising test method for determining ZSVs.
Evolution of Gross Forelimb and Fine Digit Kinematics during Skilled Reaching Acquisition in Rats
Authors: Bova Alexandra , Ferris Kenneth , Leventhal Daniel K.
Published: October 2021

The ability to learn dexterous motor skills is a fundamental aspect of human behavior. However, the underlying neural circuit mechanisms for dexterous skill learning are unclear. Advancing our understanding of motor skill learning requires the integration of modern neuroscientific techniques with a rigorously characterized dexterous task. The development of automated rodent skilled reaching with paw tracking allows detailed analysis of how reach-to-grasp kinematics evolve during learning. We assessed how both “gross” forelimb and “fine” digit kinematics changed as rats learned skilled reaching. Rats whose success rates increased (learners) consistently reduced the variability in their reach trajectories. Refinement of fine digit control generally continued after consistency in gross hand transport to the pellet plateaued. Interestingly, most rats whose success rates did not increase (non-learners) also converged on consistent reach kinematics. Some non-learners, however, maintained substantial variability in hand and digit trajectories throughout training. These results suggest that gross and fine motor components of dexterous skill are, on average, learned over different timescales. Nonetheless, there is significant intersubject variability in learning rates as assessed by both reaching success and consistency of reach kinematics.
ANALYSIS OF THE REVERSING MECHANISM OF LIGHT INDUSTRY EQUIPMENT
Authors:   Kyiv National University of Technology and Design, Koshel S. , Koshel G. ,   Open International University of Human Development “Ukraine”
Published: October 2021

To create reliable and highly efficient, en- ergy-saving machines for light industry, it is necessary to study the dynamic processes of movement of the links of the mechanisms of which they are composed. Especially such studies should be given attention for machines, the mechanisms of which have a cyclic nature of action. During the execution of a technological operation in light industry machines with a periodic cyclic movement of the working bodies, an uneven movement of the main shaft occurs. This is caused by the movement of the links of the mechanism with certain accelerations and taking into account the periodic nature of the action of technological loads, which vary in magnitude and direction. The uneven nature of the movement leads to the appearance of additional loads in the kinematic pairs of mechanisms, mechanical vibrations in the mechanical trans- mission systems of motion, leads to the appearance of vibrations and violations in the positioning of the working bodies, affects the techno- logical process of the equipment. Uniform and stable tension of the threads is the key to a high-quality performance of the loop formation process in knitwear. Additional dynamic loads affect the technological tension of textile threads during equipment operation. These loads are caused by the accelerated movement of the links of the mechanism, which is especially important for technological equipment with the pres- ence of a reverse working stroke of its links. In such mechanisms, the values of the angular acceleration of the links and the linear accelera- tion of their individual points can acquire critically permissible values. It is possible to ensure the movement of the working bodies of the machine according to the law for which the tension of the threads will be optimally necessary. To do this, you need to choose the right type of mechanism that sets them in motion. The aim of the work is to conduct a structural-kinematic research of the mechanism of the reversible movement of the needle drum of a knitting machine, which will justify the selection of the required type of mechanism for such equipment. The confirmation of the improvement of the conditions for the formation of loops when knitting on a knitting machine with a reversible needle drum movement, made on the basis of a rocker mechanism, has been obtained.
Zero Mother Mortality Preeclampsia Program: Opportunity for a Rapid Acceleration in the Decline of Maternal Mortality Rate in Indonesia
Authors: Pribadi Adhi
Published: October 2021

Objectives: Maternal mortality rate (MMR) in Indonesia was reported to be 305 per 100,000 live births. Preeclampsia is the first target to decrease because it is one of the preventable pregnancy complications. Currently, preeclampsia has patterns for treatment from early detection to delivery; therefore, reasonable chances of decreasing the MMR rapidly and significantly should be considered in Indonesia. Materials and Methods: The reasons for choosing preeclampsia for reducing MMR included an early detection method, availability of affordable medication for the prevention of preeclampsia, development of a national guideline for medical practice regarding preeclampsia, establishment of health institutions by government and the private sector in remote areas, and availability of sufficient health personnel. Results: Early detection of risk factors of preeclampsia is of great importance. Recommended preventive medication includes a combination of acetyl salicylic acid and calcium for 12 weeks for a high-risk group. National guidelines for the management of preeclampsia should be distributed to all hospitals including those covered by national health insurance. Conclusions: The goal of zero mother mortality preeclampsia program is to make policies for all health workers and the general public so that the prevention process can take place. Delivery of all cases with hypertension should be performed in the hospital without exception so no delivery should be performed at home without specialist supervision.
Comparison of Oocyte and Embryo Quality in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and the Control Group Candidate for In Vitro Fertilization and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
Authors: Afiat Malihe , Khadem Nayere , Nayeri Elnaz , Jalali Roya , Akhlaghi Saeed , Akhgari Elahe , Attaranzadeh Armin , Borzoee Fateme , Khazaie Azade , Souizi Behnaz
Published: October 2021

Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of female infertility. The aim of this study was to compare the oocyte and embryo quality between the PCOS women with the control group candidate for in vitro fertilization/ intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI). Materials and Methods: The present study was designed at the Infertility Research Center of Milad in the prospective cohort format and was carried out on 100 cases of infertile women with confirmed PCOS (case group) and the male factor (control group) as the first IVF cycle candidates. Both groups underwent the ovary stimulation cycle and ICSI under the standard antagonist protocol. The collected data were then processed and analyzed using the SPSS software, version 16. Results: The average age of study cases was 35±3, and oocyte necrosis was the underlying pathological factor in both groups (28% and 26% in the PCOS and control groups, respectively). In addition, most embryones belonged to either grade 1 or 2 or were 8-cell embryos. Furthermore, the highest number of transferred embryos among the patients was related to the 8-cell and grade 1. The occurrences of biochemical pregnancy in the PCOS and control groups were up to 31.91% and 22%, respectively, leading to 72.73% and 60% childbirth in cases of both groups. Finally, there were no significant differences observed with respect to the quality and the quantity of the embryones, the oocyte, the transferred embryo, the germinal vesicle oocytes, and the rate of pregnancy among the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusions: According to the results of the present study, no differences were found concerning the oocyte quality, embryo, and the pregnancy rate between PCOS cases and any other patients requiring ICSI. Therefore, such cases can similarly benefit from ICSI methods as well.
Assessment of the Relationship of Anthropometric Indices With Vitamin D, Zinc, and Fasting Blood Sugar Levels in Women With and Without Infection Following Abdominal Hysterectomy: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Mousavi Sanaz , Owaysee Osquee Hamid , Haghdoost Seyed Mehdi
Published: October 2021

Objectives: It is necessary to prevent postoperative infection following abdominal hysterectomy. The present study aimed to assess the relationship of anthropometric indices with vitamin D, zinc (Zn), and fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels in women with and without infection following abdominal hysterectomy in order to determine the exact effects of these factors on infection. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted in three teaching hospitals affiliated with Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in an 18-month period leading up to 2020. The participants consisted of 90 women who were candidates for abdominal hysterectomy. Anthropometric indices and vitamin D, Zn, and FBS levels were measured before the surgery. These factors were compared in the two groups of women with and without infection using the independent t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient, and P<0.05 was statistically significant. Results: No significant relationship was found between vitamin D, Zn, and FBS levels and anthropometric indices except for body mass index (BMI) that had a significant negative relationship with vitamin D blood levels (r = -0.20 and P = 0.043) while a significant positive relationship with FBS levels (r= +30 and P = 0.036) in infected patients. Therefore, patients with a higher BMI showed lower vitamin D whereas higher FBS levels in the group with infection. Conclusions: In general, vitamin D levels decreased and FBS levels increased by an increase in the BMI. These factors altogether increased the risk of postoperative infection following abdominal hysterectomy.
Protective Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Orange Peel on PCNA and FSH-R Gene Expression in Histological Damage and Oxidative Stress Due to Ovarian Torsion in Adult Rats
Authors: Tafrishi Nejad Seyedeh-Roza , Khaki Arash , Abbasalizadeh Shamci , Shokoohi Majid , Ainehchi Nava
Published: October 2021

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of orange peel on proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSH-R) gene expression in histological injuries and acid stress caused by ovarian torsion in adult rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 32 adult female rats were randomly divided into 4 groups. In group 1 (Sham), the abdominal wall was cut without applying torsion and in group 2, ovarian torsion was performed for 2 hours, followed by detorsion for 2 weeks. The hydro-alcoholic extract of orange peel was added to their diet for two weeks in group 3, followed by ovarian torsion for 2 hours and detorsion for 2 hours. Group 4 received the orange peel extract for two weeks and after then ovarian resection for the evaluation of histological damage and blood sampling to examine the serum level of antioxidant enzymes, as well as the expression of PCNA and FSH-R genes in the ovarian tissue. Results: Histological changes in the ovary tissue of rats showed that torsion and detorsion have destructive effects on the ovarian tissue, and torsion/detorsion led to a reduction in the expression of PCNA and FSH-R (P < 0.05). Based on biochemical and hormonal results, the ovarian torsion resulted in an imbalance in the oxidative stress markers and hormone profile of rats. Finally, the administration of the hydroalcoholic extract of orange peel due to its high antioxidant properties improves these effects. Conclusions: In general, administering an appropriate dose of the hydroalcoholic extract of orange peel for two consecutive weeks in the diet had a protective effect on the ovarian tissue at the risk of torsion/detorsion.
Alterations of Uterine Blood Flow During the Follicular Phase in Patients With Recurrent Implantation Failure: A Doppler Ultrasonographic Study
Authors: Amini Marjan , Ranjkesh Mahnaz , Nikanfar Saba , Fattahi Amir , Farzadi Laya , Hamdi Kobra
Published: October 2021

Objectives: The dynamics of blood flow in the endometrium plays a crucial role during the implantation process. This study aimed to assess the uterine perfusion during the follicular phase in patients with a history of recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and healthy fertile women using the transvaginal ultrasound color Doppler method. Materials and Methods: To this end, 50 patients with RIF and 50 age-matched healthy fertile women were recruited in this case-control study. The transvaginal color Doppler ultrasonography was used to evaluate the pulsatility index (PI) and resistance index (RI) of the uterine, arcuate, and sub-endometrial arteries during the follicular phase in both groups. Results: The RI and PI of both right and left uterine arteries were higher in the RIF group compared to the fertile women (P<0.05). Our results showed that the PI and RI of sub-endometrial blood flow and the RI of arcuate arteries were substantially higher in the group with a history of RIF in comparison with the control group. However, the PI of arcuate arteries was not significantly different between the groups. Conclusions: Adequate uterine perfusion and sub-endometrial blood flow are necessary to achieve successful implantation and pregnancy since our results demonstrated the higher resistance of uterine and sub-endometrial arteries in patients with a history of RIF. Thus, the assessments of uterine perfusion indices during the follicular phase could be used as a non-invasive method in the evaluation of patients with RIF.
Laparoscopic Repair of a Post-myomectomy Uterocutaneous Fistula in a Nulligravida: A Case Report
Authors: Rao Ashwin , Nanjappan Saravanan
Published: October 2021

Introduction: An abnormal passage connecting the skin and the uterus is the uterocutaneous fistula. It is rarely observed after a cesarean section or a gynecological surgery involving the uterus. The presence of an infection further complicates the management. In countries such as India where tuberculosis is highly prevalent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis should be ruled out. Case Presentation: A 29-year-old nulliparous woman who had undergone a laparotomy for removal of a large fibroid for primary infertility presented with complaints of abdominal pain and discharge from the scar site. These symptoms did not resolve with antibiotics and analgesics. An ultrasonography was performed and a fistulous tract extending up to the endometrium was revealed. She underwent a laparoscopic resection of the fistulous tract following which she was symptom free. Conclusion: One of the rarely observed complications following laparotomies and cesarean section is a uterocutaneous fistula. It is even rarer in women with no previous pregnancies. The management involves adhesiolysis and layer by layer closure of the uterus and abdomen wall after excising the tract. Most often a repeat laparotomy is performed to treat the condition, but in the current times it is well known that repeated open surgeries in the peritoneal cavity increase the chances of adhesions which can reduce the chances of pregnancies in nulliparous women. Hence, this article shows a successful outcome of laparoscopic uterocutaneous fistula repair.
Migration of Neglected Vaginal Pessaries: A Case Report
Authors: Bae Hyun A , Choi Jeong In , Chung Soo-Ho , Sang Jae Hong
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Vaginal pessaries are commonly used to manage pelvic organ prolapse. Pessaries are usually tolerated although some severe complications can occur in cases of negligence, including vesicovaginal and rectovaginal fistulas. Case Presentation: This is a report of two cases of a neglected vaginal pessary and migration into the rectovaginal space to form a vaginal orifice. Based on examinations, no vaginal pessaries in both cases migrated into the rectum. These pessaries were removed by cutting and rotating movements. Finally, the two patients were discharged after surgery without any complications. Conclusions: Neglected pessaries can lead to serious complications. Thus, patient education, local estrogen treatment, and careful follow-ups are important to prevent such complications.
Reverberation! A New Wave in Disability Art
Authors: Bridger Maggie , Erlikh Sydney , Yi Chun-shan
Published: October 2021

Graduate student scholar/artists Sydney Erlikh, Maggie Bridger, and Sandie Yi reflect on their experiences of having attended VIBE: Challenging Ableism and Audism Through the Arts. The three were struck by the diversity and range of unique experiences reflected in the work of the presenting artists. Each author takes the lead on one of three themes they collectively identified: what constitutes disability art, how community shapes artistic and scholarly practice, and how boundaries of the field are evolving. The article explores the ways in which disabled artists are defining creative processes and aesthetic approaches outside of the mainstream art world and its ableist productivity demands. They also take note of how artists with non- apparent disabilities are actively moving the field in new directions. Finally, they examine the ethical dimensions of artistic “ownership” in the collaboration between artists with and without disabilities, particularly around those with intellectual disabilities and their allies. The authors ultimately offer a description of a new wave of disability art that is pushing the field to think through questions of process, collaboration, ethics, visibility, creative scholarship, and relationship to disability studies. This new work, they argue, is creating space for a more sustainable, community-based practice.
Diabetes, Art, and Data Resonance
Authors: Thulin Samuel
Published: October 2021

This paper presents the project Hemo-resonance #1, the first in a series of art works that aim to open alternative pathways for thinking about and practicing diabetes. I begin by discussing the centrality of data collection via self-tracking for the management of Type 1 diabetes, and the ways this data collection orients understandings of diabetes and the diabetic body. Diabetic self-management is typically aimed at finding patterns in one’s data, establishing cause and effect relationships, and understanding trends in the body’s operation so that the diabetic can modulate behaviour to optimize health outcomes. Arguing that approaching data in different ways can provide insights into diabetic experience and relationships that extend beyond the goal-oriented approach of always doing better, I offer “data resonance” as a way of following other trajectories of data and bodies. Data resonance provides sensory-rich materialisations of data in ways that seek to detach themselves from the typical focus on the legibility or interpretability of the data. This suspension of habitual orientations to data makes space for thinking of bodies, data, and the relationships between the two in new ways, and offering meditations on the value of co-corporeality, human-non-human relationships, and bodily difference.
Saying “Thank You” for Quality Closed Captions: A Promising Shift in Inviting Access
Authors: Green Cheryl
Published: October 2021

Even as deaf and hard of hearing filmmakers and activists repeatedly call for quality captions on all video content, many non-deaf filmmakers have managed to remain unaware of the need for and purpose of captions. Implicit biases drive many filmmakers to exclude access from their budgets and their films. These biases include a notion that caption users are not a viable audience, concerns that captions will threaten the beauty of video images by covering part of the screen, and an audist attitude that any level and quality of transcription of spoken dialogue must be adequate. The author is a hearing captioner and filmmaker. In this essay, she reflects on how she advocates for film accessibility through captions. She describes her strategy, how she frames “onscreen real estate,” and responses from filmmakers for captions, including the hopeful way that some say thank you. Quality captions are contrasted against woefully inadequate captions—or “craptions”—provided automatically by YouTube and by companies with cut-rate services. The author considers a focus on inviting access rather than waiting for a compliance-based method of only captioning a film when the filmmaker learns it is required.
I AM A GENIUS DOES ANYONE HERE KNOW ME?
Authors: Brown Lois
Published: October 2021

Lois Brown attended VIBE International Symposium at Concordia University, November 30 - December 2, 2018, where she performed a twenty-minute solo version of I AM A GENIUS DOES ANYONE HERE KNOW ME? This performance was based on a 70 minute piece also titled I AM A GENIUS DOES ANYONE HERE KNOW ME? created by Lois Brown and composed by James O’Callaghan.

Trailer: https://vimeo.com/289326915
Individual Multilingualism of Students and Their Commitment to Learning German: A Pilot Study of the Faculty of Philology at Vilnius University
Authors: Babušytė Diana , Daunorienė Justina
Published: October 2021

The importance of promoting individual multilingualism is repeatedly emphasised worldwide in didactic, sociolinguistic and psycholinguistic studies. The prior knowledge of the learners and the networking of languages is pointed out in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. For this reason, the principles and methods of multilingual didactics play an important role in foreign language teaching due to their positive effects. Therefore, the question is increasingly being addressed how individual differences and progress of the learners regarding their linguistic backgrounds can be taken into account in language teaching.This article examines the question of whether and how Lithuanian university students see their multilingual repertoire as a resource for learning German. For this purpose, a survey was carried out among the Philology students of Vilnius University who study German as an optional course. The aim of this pilot study was to find out whether the students' previous knowledge of other languages helps them to learn German, or whether they see the influences of their mother tongue and other foreign languages as an obstacle that affects them negatively. The data obtained from the questionnaire presents the students' attitudes towards multilingualism, their multilingual skills and language awareness, as well as their language-related experience in acquiring German as a foreign language. The respondents' answers were processed using the method of the qualitative content analysis with a deductive-inductive approach. The results of the survey show that the majority of the students encountered the methods of multilingual didactics and see the multilingual competence as an important advantage for learning other foreign languages. Despite the language interference, the benefits of language skills outweigh the learning process. The students give examples based on their experience of how they use other languages for learning German and show well-developed metalinguistic awareness (e.g. language comparisons) and metacognitive skills (e.g. learning strategies).It is planned to continue this study by interviewing students from other faculties of Vilnius University (Medicine, Law, etc.) comparing their multilingual skills and metalinguistic awareness with the Philology students.
Darbdavio prekės ženklo vertės poveikis vartotojų suvoktai paslaugos prekės ženklo vertei ir elgsenos ketinimams
Authors:   , Ščiukauskė Indrė
Published: October 2021

The impact of the employer brand equity on the consumers perceived service brand equity and behavioral intentions
Impact of alcohol consumption on the health of pregnant women and their children – a review of studies
Authors:   Department of Cancer Prevention, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland, Dulęba Marta , Chądzyńska Małgorzata ,   Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland, Kozakiewicz Barbara ,   Department of Cancer Prevention, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Alcohol is one of the strongest teratogens. Since the 1960s, information campaigns have been conducted to address its harmful effect and promote quitting drinking, especially by pregnant women. The aim of this paper includes a review of literature concerning research on alcohol use by pregnant women and learning about their knowledge of the detrimental effects of ethanol on the health of themselves and their unborn children. This paper shall also assess social campaigns devoted to informing this group of women about the harmful effects of alcohol consumption. Description of state of knowledge: The review explicitly confirmed data on the harmful effect of alcohol on the formation of morphological and behavioural changes stigmatising children, which are not always visible from birth, and often take the form characteristic of foetal alcohol syndrome only in schoolchildren. The results of molecular and psychological tests have raised the question as to whether the acceptable limits for blood alcohol content in pregnant women should be established. The toxic effects of alcohol and its metabolites depend not only on the amount consumed, but also on the body condition, style of drinking, and age. Summary: Studies covering 11 European countries have shown that drinking alcohol during pregnancy is more and more common, especially in better-educated women with higher earnings and from larger cities. Therefore, information campaigns that stress the harmfulness of the so-called risky drinking by pregnant women should be targeted primarily at this group.
Adrenal crisis as a life-threatening condition
Authors:   Department of Emergency Medicine, Military Medical Academy Memorial Teaching Hospital – Central Veterans’ Hospital, ORCID: 0000-0003-3469-6766, Łódź, Poland, Ciastkowska-Berlikowska Agnieszka , Zawadzki Dariusz ,   Department of Paediatric Emergency Medicine, II Department of Paediatrics, Medical University of Lodz, ORCID: 0000-0003-4560-0440, Łódź, Poland
Published: October 2021

Adrenal crisis is a medical emergency, which requires quick, accurate diagnosis and the implementation of adequate treatment. It usually occurs in patients taking glucocorticoid therapy due to chronic adrenal insufficiency in conditions that demand increased glucocorticoids, such as infection, trauma, surgery, myocardial infarction, stroke, exercise or acute stress. The disease follows a course of shock that does not respond to catecholamines. Prodromal symptoms include decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, joint or muscle pain, and fatigue. This is followed by fluctuating consciousness, as well as reduced blood pressure and tachycardia, which are symptoms of shock. These symptoms result from the following metabolic disorders: hyponatremia, hyperkalaemia, hypoglycaemia and mild hypercalcemia. Due to the absence of characteristic symptoms in adrenal crisis, the basis for correct diagnosis in a prehospital setting is a carefully collected medical history, followed by a detailed physical examination that should pay particular attention to discoloration of the skin (so-called melasma suprarenale) that is not exposed to light: the hands (especially creases), elbows, areolae, scars and buccal mucosa, which is one of the symptoms of primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease). The therapeutic approach consists in the administration of intravenous hydrocortisone (to moderate cortisol deficiency), modifying fluid and electrolyte imbalances and abnormalities of acid-base balance, and treating the disease that has led to decompensation of the patient’s clinical condition, which in many cases is an infection. Adrenal crisis left untreated leads to patient death.
The role of monacolin in the treatment of dyslipidaemia
Authors: Ozierański Krzysztof , Grabowski Marcin
Published: October 2021

Dyslipidaemia is one of the major modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. According to the current epidemiological data, excessively high serum cholesterol levels are found in 64% of women and 70% of men aged ≥20 years in Poland. Statins are the treatment of choice in patients with high-to-very high cardiovascular risk and high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. At the other end of the spectrum, there is a group of patients with low-to-moderate cardiovascular risk and low or moderate LDL cholesterol levels, who should be put on well-planned and appropriately adjusted therapy involving lifestyle modification and, if needed, pharmacotherapy. In such cases, the current guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology make it possible to use monacolin, a nutraceutical which is a natural statin (chemically identical to lovastatin). Monacolin is found in red yeast rice and its action is based on the known mechanism of inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in endogenous cholesterol synthesis. Data on the efficacy and safety of monacolin come from many clinical trials showing a significant decrease in triglycerides, total and LDL cholesterol, resulting in a reduced number of cardiovascular events in the absence of significant adverse effects. Monacolin is likely to become an effective pharmaceutical to combat dyslipidaemia in the growing group of (relatively young) patients with low-to-moderate baseline cardiovascular risk and lowto- moderate LDL cholesterol levels, without concomitant indications for statins. This paper summarises the current knowledge on the efficacy, safety and potential indications for the use of monacolin in the treatment of dyslipidaemia.
The impact of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on the rate of wound healing in Fournier’s gangrene
Authors:   Department of General, Functional and Oncological Urology, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland, Grabińska Agnieszka , Michalczyk Łukasz ,   Department of Urology and Urologic Oncology, Praski Hospital, Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland, Ząbkowski Tomasz ,   Department of General, Functional and Oncological Urology, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland, Grabińska Anna ,   Aesthetic Medicine for Doctors, Wojciech Korfanty Upper Silesian School of Economics, Katowice, Polan, Kwiatkowski Andrzej ,   Department of General, Oncological, Metabolic and Thoracic Surgery, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland, Syryło Tomasz ,   Department of General, Functional and Oncological Urology, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
Published: October 2021

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on the rate of wound healing in Fournier’s gangrene. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of 13 patients treated for Fournier’s gangrene at the Military Institute of Medicine from October 2017 to November 2020. The study group consisted of males (n = 13) aged 24 to 83 years. Two groups of patients were distinguished: group 1 – patients who underwent hyperbaric oxygen therapy as an adjuvant treatment, group 2 – patients who did not undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Results: In the first group, hyperbaric oxygen therapy was used as an adjuvant treatment of wound healing in in 8/13 patients (62%) with Fournier’s gangrene. In this group, significant acceleration of this process and shorter hospital stay were observed (mean = 29 days). In the second group, the hospitalisation time was significantly longer (mean = 51 days) in 5 out of 13 patients (38%). There were no deaths in either group 1 or group 2. Conclusions: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is an effective adjuvant therapy in the treatment of Fournier’s gangrene. It has an impact on the rate of wound healing and shorter hospitalisation time.
The role of glucocorticoids in the treatment of acute anaphylactic reaction
Authors: Rustecka Agnieszka , Węgrzynek Maria , Tomaszewska Agata , Kalicki Bolesław
Published: October 2021

Food allergy is a growing health problem, which is particularly common among the youngest children. Anaphylaxis, which is defined as a sudden-onset and potentially fatal response to an allergen, is an indication for urgent treatment. Although intramuscular epinephrine is the treatment of choice, all therapeutic algorithms also recommend glucocorticoids. They play an important role in reducing the risk of late allergic reaction, and, due to their non-genomic effects, are also increasingly often mentioned in the context of early response to shock. This effect is directly proportional to the dose of the drug, and a reduced duration of the symptoms of anaphylactic shock is achieved with the use of high doses of glucocorticoids. The paper presents a case of a 3-month-old girl with an anaphylactic reaction after consuming a modified milk preparation. After systemic administration of glucocorticoids, a satisfactory therapeutic effect was observed in the child.
Severe paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 in a 13-year old boy – case report
Authors:   Intensive Care Unit, Jan Bogdanowicz Children’s Hospital, Warsaw, Poland, Jurszewicz Paweł , Górska-Kot Aneta ,   Department of Paediatrics, Jan Bogdanowicz Children’s Hospital, Warsaw, Poland, Kowalska Agnieszka ,   Intensive Care Unit, Jan Bogdanowicz Children’s Hospital, Warsaw, Poland, Topka Paulina ,   Intensive Care Unit, Jan Bogdanowicz Children’s Hospital, Warsaw, Poland, Gąsiewska-Drazba Anna ,   Intensive Care Unit, Jan Bogdanowicz Children’s Hospital, Warsaw, Poland, Sarnecka-Kaczor Monika ,   Intensive Care Unit, Jan Bogdanowicz Children’s Hospital, Warsaw, Poland, Szczepanik-Bartoszcze Magdalena ,   Intensive Care Unit, Jan Bogdanowicz Children’s Hospital, Warsaw, Poland, Jabłoński Łukasz ,   Intensive Care Unit, Jan Bogdanowicz Children’s Hospital, Warsaw, Poland, Czady-Jurszewicz Katarzyna ,   Intensive Care Unit, Jan Bogdanowicz Children’s Hospital, Warsaw, Poland,   Department of Paediatrics, Jan Bogdanowicz Children’s Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
Published: October 2021

Paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS) is a recently detected syndrome whose criteria were first established in May 2020 (Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health). The clinical course varies from mild to severe, life-threatening cases. This paper presents a case of an extremely severe course of PIMS with symptoms resembling Kawasaki syndrome in a previously healthy 13-year-old boy with obesity. A complication of the severe course of PIMS was the development of critical illness polyneuropathy in the patient.