bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Audio-visual speech perception of plosive consonants by CG learners of English
Authors: Kkese Elena , Dimitriou Dimitra
Published: June 2023

Second language (L2) speech perception can be a challenging process, as listeners have to cope with imperfect auditory signals and imperfect L2 knowledge. However, the aim of L2 speech perception is to extract linguistic meaning and enable communication between interlocutors in the language of input. Normal-hearing listeners can effortlessly perceive and understand the auditory message(s) conveyed, regardless of distortions and background noise, as they can endure a dramatic decrease in the amount of spectral and temporal information present in the auditory signal. In their attempt to recognise speech, listeners can be substantially assisted by looking at the face of the speaker. Visual perception is important even in the case of intelligible speech sounds, indicating that auditory and visual information should be combined. The present study examines how audio-visual integration affects Cypriot-Greek (CG) listeners’ recognition performance of plosive consonants on word-level in L2 English. The participants were 14 first language (L1) CG users, who were non-native speakers of English. They completed a perceptual minimal-set task requiring the extraction of speech information from unimodal auditory stimuli, unimodal visual stimuli, bimodal audio-visual congruent stimuli, and incongruent stimuli. The findings indicated that overall performance was better in the bimodal congruent task. The results point to the multisensory speech-specific mode of perception, which plays an important role in alleviating the majority of moderate to severe L2 comprehension difficulties. CG listeners’ success seems to depend upon the ability to relate what they see to what they hear.
Rethinking ‘errors’
Authors: Potapova Irina , Gallagher John , Escobedo Alicia , Pruitt-Lord Sonja
Published: June 2023

All children produce non-adult-like grammatical forms (e.g., omissions, substitutions) in the process of acquiring the language(s) in their environment. Often, use of these forms is part of typical language development; in other cases, non-adult-like forms are indicative of developmental language disorder (DLD). For children acquiring multiple languages, additional variability in language use is expected, as their experiences with each language vary. For accurate assessment in speech-language pathology, measures must differentiate typical and atypical development within the variability of dual language learning. Recent research indicates that measuring productivity – or the diversity and flexibility of children's morphosyntactic skills – may be helpful in meeting this need: across speaker populations, typical language development is characterised by relatively greater productivity. However, available work has largely prioritised productivity within accurate productions. Presently, we ask: what are patterns of productivity in the context of non-adult-like forms in the spontaneous language samples of preschool-aged Spanish-English bilinguals? Analyses were conducted in both languages, and, as predicted, typically developing bilinguals (n = 15; age range = 3;11-4;11 [years;months]) produced non-adult-like forms that demonstrated productivity, or the (over)use of grammatical markers (e.g., substitutions, overregularisations) in both Spanish and English. Conversely, non-adult-like forms produced by three bilingual peers with DLD (ages 3;10, 4;1 and 4;3) were primarily characterised by limited productivity (i.e., omissions). Patterns observed here align with previous research and with the profile of DLD, in which children demonstrate difficulty learning and using grammatical markers. Additionally, present findings revealed cross-linguistic differences in productivity across English and Spanish, likely stemming from differences in grammatical structures between languages and, relatedly, differences in grammatical forms prioritised in assessment for each language. Present findings motivate further work in descriptive analyses of language use (i.e., identifying productive vs. non-productive forms) to improve our understanding of bilingual language development and to support clinical decision-making.
Voluntary use of two languages when counting in bilingual contexts
Authors: Romañach Alvarez Ana , Guzzardo Tamargo Rosa E.
Published: June 2023

Puerto Rican Spanish-English bilingual adults can occasionally switch between their languages within a counting sequence; i.e., if they start counting in one language, they may choose to switch into the other language while counting the same set of objects. The present study explores the contexts in which a language switch within a counting sequence occurs. The participants read sentences and counted images in monolingual and bilingual conditions. The overall results display a preference to count in Spanish and maintain its use throughout the counting process when allowed to use their languages as desired. Five participants performed voluntary language switching within a counting sequence in bilingual conditions. Many participants also alternated their use of Spanish and English for counting across stimuli sets in these conditions. The participants’ performance is described and analysed with respect to variables such as the initial language of use for counting, language proficiency and language history.
DESTINATION SEQUENCED DISTANCE VECTOR ROUTING TAKING INTO ACCOUNT SIGNAL TO NOISE FOR FLYING AD HOC NETWORK
Authors: Vo Thanh Tu , Binh Le Huu , Phan Dinh Nguyen Vu
Published: June 2023

Flying ad hoc network (FANET) is becoming more popular in both military and civilian applications. The primary characteristic of the FANET is high mobility, which results in a constantly changing topology. This is a significant challenge for protocols that control data transmission from nodes to base stations. As a result, many research groups have recently been attracted to the study of data transmission control protocols in FANET, typically routing protocols. This paper presents the application of the Destination Sequenced Distance Vector (DSDV) routing protocols for FANET. We improve the DSDV routing protocol by considering signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) when discovering new routes. The simulation results show that the improved DSDV algorithm outperforms the traditional DSDV algorithm in terms of network throughput, end-to-end delay and SNR.
Spiritual Healing: A Study of Modern Sufi Reflexology Therapy in Indonesia
Authors: Islamy Mohammad Rindu Fajar , Purwanto Yedi , Romli Usup , Ramdani Alwan Husni
Published: June 2023

There have been advances achieved in modern medicine but traditional treatment methods using certain spiritual approached have become increasingly popular in many parts of the world. Certain Sufi practices, among others, is used in medical treatment to support the healing process. Based on a case study on the practice of Sufi therapy conducted by Akang Syamsudin in the Limbangan Garut area, West Java, Indonesia this article attempts to explore the conversion process and dynamics of the development of Sufi healing. Employing a qualitative approach and Miles and Huberman landscape approach, and supported with interviews, observations, and documentation the research finds that Syamsudin’s Sufi therapy method combines physical and spiritual principles. Syamsudin’s therapeutic approach is based on the following seven factors, are: 1) belief that every disease has a cure; 2) balance and moderation are directly proportional to physical health; 3) spiritual factors dominate over physical factors; 4) the importance of blood circulation; 5) the efficacy of positive suggestion; 6) belief and submission to God’s will; 7) the effectiveness of patience and consistency. The research implications open a new paradigm in the field of non-invasive treatments. This article suggests that modern medical treatment should be complemented with spiritual therapy in order to achieve more positive healing outcomes for patients.
Application of stem cells in guided bone regeneration
Authors: Chumakov N. S. , Khlystova K. A. , Sarkisyan N. G. , Fadeev F. A. , Mamedov M. M.
Published: June 2023

Modern medicine allows us to study and develop materials and methods of restorative treatment that would be based on the immunological mechanisms of bone repair. One of the promising directions in guided bone regeneration is the use of mesenchymal stem cells. Interest in MSCs is associated with their ability to regulate the inflammatory process, and directly participate in the formation of new bone structures, thereby providing a physiological repair process. The effector impact of MSCs on the inflammatory process due to their ability to form a specific microenvironment. Low expression of MHC-II and CD80/CD86, the production of PGE2 and NO determines their low immunoconflict, and the production of TGF-b1, IDO and IL-10 has an immunomodulating effect. The ability of MSCs to differentiate into an osteogenic phenotype is accompanied with the synthesis of ALP, BSP and, subsequently, Gla-protein and OPN determine the synthesis of the extracellular matrix and its subsequent mineralization. This process is provided by the action of Runx2, which activates the differentiation of MSCs along the osteogenic pathway. These effects of MSCs were taken as the basis for the development of a new method for the treatment of bone atrophy. To accomplish the task set, a model of bone tissue atrophy and a drug containing MSCs was developed, and an experimental study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed methodology. As the main criteria, data from clinical and laboratory studies were taken. Visual changes in the studied area were taken into account, compared with a similar area in the developed model of atrophy, the parameters of the complete blood count (CBC) were evaluated. The performed study allows us to determine the developed treatment method as capable of fully recreating the conditions of bone repair processes, taking into account the optimization of the body’s immune reactions and repair processes, without additional external influence, to obtain predictable and controllable results.
Changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota, associated with IL-6 deficiency
Authors: Gubernatorova E. O. , Polinova A. I. , Yurakova T. R. , Nedospasov S. A. , Drutskaya М. S.
Published: June 2023

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a broad-spectrum cytokine involved in the immune, nervous, and endocrine regulation of many biological processes. IL-6 performs both homeostatic and pathogenic functions. It is one of the key factors in the cytokine storm in COVID-19, and it also controls the production of acute phase proteins during inflammation. IL-6 is involved in the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis and is required for both the induction of inflammation and the repair of the injured intestinal tissue. In turn, the commensal microbiota, represented by eukaryotes, prokaryotes, and viruses, is one of the key factors modulating the immune response in the gut. The predominance of certain groups of commensal microorganisms is associated with the development of intestinal inflammation, while probiotics and antibiotics are successfully used to control inflammatory bowel disease. IL-6 is also necessary to maintain the barrier function of the intestine by modulating the proliferation of intestinal cells, which is necessary for their timely renewal both in homeostasis and inflammation. It has been established that the genetic inactivation of IL6 contributes to the development of intestinal inflammation, while the involvement of IL-6 in the control of the gut microbiota composition remains unclear. To investigate this issue, we analyzed stool samples from wild-type naive mice and mice deficient in IL6 (IL-6 KO) generated on the C57Bl/6 genetic background. It has been determined that IL-6 KO shows significant changes in some taxonomic groups of commensals, which may explain the sensitivity of IL-6 KO to the development of colitis. Interestingly, the relative contents of Firmicutes and Clostridiales are significantly reduced, whereas Bacteroides are increased in IL-6 KO as compared with wild-type mice. Our data on the reduction of Firmicutes, Lactobacillaceae, and other large taxa in IL-6 deficient mice suggest that the microbiota composition of IL-6 KO mice is somewhat similar to that of mice with chronic intestinal inflammation. Our study serves as a perspective for further research on the contribution of IL-6-mediated changes in the microbiota composition to the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis and the development of chronic gut inflammation.
Effect of CFP-10/ESAT-6 secretory proteins on long-term non-specific immunological memory in mouse macrophages
Authors: Lykov А. P. , Belogorodtsev S. N. , Nemkova Е. К. , Vetlugina А. , Terekhova Т. М. , Schwartz Ya. Sh.
Published: June 2023

Innate immune cells (monocytes/macrophages, NK) can also develop immune memory, which means that these cells are trained after their first encounter with pathogens so that they exhibit a nonspecific immunological response to the same or another pathogen. Bacilli Calmette–Gu rin (BCG) induces nonspecific innate memory (trained immunity) in innate immune cells. We examined nonspecific innate memory in macrophages of BALB/c mice in response to mycobacteria with or without the RD1 region in the genome. Mice were immunized with BCG vaccine, and peritoneal macrophages were isolated on day 7, and then stimulated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide, CFP-10, or ESAT-6. In addition, mice were immunized with Mycobacterium tuberculosis uro-BCG vaccine (RD1-) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain H37Rv (RD1+) subcutaneously or intravenously; peritoneal macrophages were isolated and stimulated with lipopolysaccharide on day 4. Alveolar macrophages were obtained from lung explants of mice infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain H37Rv mice, were expanded to confluence 70-80% and further stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. Lactate, cytokines, and glucose levels were examined in conditioned macrophage medium. Peritoneal macrophages from mice primed with BCG vaccine were shown to increase IL-1b, TNFa, and lactate production in response to CFP-6 and ESAT-10 (p < 0.05). Of note is the fact that lipopolysaccharide also increased production of IL-1b, TNFa, and also increased glucose uptake by peritoneal macrophages primed with BCG vaccine (p < 0.05). Peritoneal macrophages primed with Uro-BCG were shown to increase spontaneous production of IL-1b and decrease spontaneous production of TNFa (p < 0.05). When macrophages were primed by subcutaneous or intravenous administration of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain H37Rv differentially affected cytokine production, by decreasing IL-1b production and increasing TNFa and IL-10, was observed. In response to lipopolysaccharide, peritoneal macrophages increased IL-1b, TNFa, IL-10 production and glucose consumption (p < 0.05). The mode of priming of macrophages with Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain H37Rv also led to multidirectional levels of cytokine production. Alveolar macrophages were shown to retain trained immunity, as they produced elevated levels of IL-1b, TNFa, and IL-10 (p < 0.05). Thus, mouse macrophages formed a trained immunity phenotype in response to different types of mycobacteria, which persists for a long time after primary contact with the pathogen, particularly in alveolar macrophages.
Effect of pregnancy-specific β1-glycoprotein on myeloid-derived suppressor cell differentiation
Authors: Timganova V. P. , Shardina K. Yu. , Bochkova M. S. , Uzhviyuk S. V. , Usanina D. I. , Zamorina S. A.
Published: June 2023

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous cell population that primarily suppress T lymphocytes in healthy pregnancies and pathologies. MDSCs are one of the key regulators of immune responses. Finding ways to control them is important for the treatment of cancer, autoimmune diseases, miscarriage, and post-transplant complications. The mechanisms of immune suppression by MDSC are: expression of CD73, ADAM17, PD -L1, production of Arg 1, iNOS, IDO, IL -10 and TGF-b1.

Pregnancy-specific b1-glycoprotein (PSG) has modulatory effects on dendritic cells and macrophages that mediate the shift of T cell phenotypes toward Th2 and Treg. We have previously shown that native PSG suppresses Th17 differentiation and cytokine production, stimulates the production of IDO by monocytes and the differentiation of Tregs.

Considering the immunomodulatory properties of PSG and the key role of MDSCs in pathologies, the aim of our work was to investigate the effect of native and recombinant PSG on the differentiation of MDSCs in vitro.

MDSCs were differentiated from CD11b+ peripheral blood cells. Cells were cultured for 7 days and received stepwise GM-CSF, IL-1b, and LPS. Native (n) (1; 10 and 100 mg/mL) and recombinant (r) (1 and 10 mg/mL) PSG were introduced into the cultures three days before the end of incubation. Flow cytometry was used to determine the percentage of MDSC among the cells in culture and the percentage of M-, PMN-, and e-MDSC among the total number of MDSCs.

It was found that rPSG (1 mg/mL) increased the percentage of MDSCs in culture. Both nPSG (1 and 10 mg/mL) and rPSG (10 mg/mL) increased the proportion of M-MDSC, whereas rPSG (10 mg/mL) decreased the number of PMN-MDSC.

Thus, the cytokine background in CD11b+ cell cultures favored the differentiation of predominantly M-MDSC, similar to the tumor microenvironment, whereas native and recombinant PSG enhanced this effect. Thus, nPSG and rPSG are able to modulate the differentiation of MDSCs by increasing their number, mainly due to the monocytic subpopulation. This fact opens perspectives for new research on targeted manipulation of MDSCs.
Fibrogenic and fibrolytic potential of differently activated human macrophages
Authors: Maksimova A. A. , Sakhno L. V. , Ostanin A. A.
Published: June 2023

Macrophages are involved in the regulation of fibrogenesis and turnover of the extracellular matrix. One way to perform this function is through the production of profibrotic and fibrolytic factors including fibronectin, laminin, collagen, and extracellular matrix proteases. The production of most of them has been well studied in experimental models; however, much remains unclear regarding human macrophages. Therefore, the aim of this study was to study the content of extracellular matrix proteases (MMP-2 and MMP-9, cathepsin L), their inhibitors (TIMP-1), and collagen (type I) in supernatants of differently activated human macrophages. We compared macrophages differentiated by M-CSF or GM-CSF and further polarized in M1 with lipopolysaccharide, in M2a with IL-4, and in M2c with dexamethasone. Macrophages was obtained from peripheral blood monocytes. The content of MMPs, TIMP, cathepsin, and collagen was determined using appropriate ELISA kits. The results obtained demonstrate that differentiation factors are more important for the production of the above factors compared to polarizing stimuli (lipopolysaccharide, IL-4, dexamethasone). Moreover, macrophages differentiated by M-CSF showed predominantly antifibrotic activity because of pronounced MMPs production, while GM-CSF-induced cultures, on the contrary, were characterized by profibrotic properties due to the high level of TIMP-1 and type I collagen. M1, M2a, and M2c, induced by M-CSF, differed only in MMP-2 production, and M2a produced this metalloproteinase more than other subtypes. In the case of GM-CSF-differentiated cells, a higher level of production of TIMP-1 and, to a lesser extent, type I collagen was characteristic of M1, whereas M2c have minimal concentration of them among GM-CSF-induced macrophage subtypes. Concerning the level of cathepsin L production was relatively constant and did not depend on the generation conditions (differentiation and polarizing signals). Thus, the data obtained help to identify macrophage subtypes with anti- or profibrotic potential and may be useful for the development of cell therapy for diseases associated with fibrogenesis dysregulation.
Human NK cells internalize recombinant major stress protein HSP70
Authors: Shevchenko M. A. , Garbuz D. G. , Davletshin A. I. , Boyko A. A. , Evgen'ev M. B. , Sapozhnikov A. M.
Published: June 2023

Heat shock proteins 70 kDa (HSP70) protect intracellular proteins from the damaging effects of stress factors of various natures. Moreover, HSP70 play an important role in the vital activity of cells under normal physiological conditions, performing chaperone functions. These functions are realized in the intracellular space; however, in some cases, these proteins are also found on the cell surface and in the extracellular environment. The causes and mechanisms of HSP70 translocation to the cell surface and secretion into the extracellular space have not yet been well understood, but such an unusual localization of HSP70 activates the immune system. The surface HSP70 and their extracellular pool stimulate the cytotoxic activity of NK cells. However, direct experimental evidence for the internalization of HSP70 molecules by NK cells has not yet been demonstrated. This paper presents the results of the interaction of the extracellular HSP70 pool with NK cells from the peripheral blood. The results demonstrated the confirmation of the internalization of exogenous HSP70 molecules by NK cells. To this end, fluorescently labeled recombinant stress-inducible human HSP70 were obtained. The electrophoretic data indicated the absence of protein degradation during the labeling process, the purity and stability of the modified protein. To assess the interaction of HSP70 with NK cells, the fluorescently labeled HSP70 was added to an in vitro culture of NK cells isolated by magnetic separation from the peripheral blood mononuclear fraction and analyzed by confocal microscopy. This analysis indicated that living NK cells internalize extracellular HSP70 with localization both in lysosomes and in phagosomes. Our experiments illustrated for the first time the process of penetration of the extracellular form of HSP70 into these cells. The results suggest that the activation of NK cells under the action of exogenous HSP70 could be associated with the internalization of these protein molecules.
Mutation hot spots in MICA/MICB extracellular domains
Authors: Stolbovaya A. Yu. , Smirnov I. V.
Published: June 2023

MICA and MICB are non-classical MHC molecules that indicate cellular stress. They act as ligands for NKG2D receptors found on NK cells, thereby triggering a cytotoxic response against damaged, infected, or transformed cells. The production of soluble forms of MICA/MICB occurs via the cleavage of their extracellular domains (ECDs). The expression of MICA/MICB molecules in tumor sections or the levels of their soluble forms in blood have potential as diagnostic tools for cancer. They can predict important clinical outcomes for cancer patients, such as overall and recurrence-free survival. However, their extensive molecular polymorphism complicates the development of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for diagnostic use. Therefore, the diagnostic value of mAb-based assays may vary depending on the frequencies of allelic variants in local human populations. We examined the ECD amino acid sequences of more than 280 MICA and 50 MICB allelic variants. Additionally, we identified 172 and 58 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located in the coding regions of the respective genes and resulting in amino acid replacements. The most frequent amino acid replacements (> 10%) in the ECD occur at 11 and 4 sites of MICA and MICB, respectively. We found that the frequencies of SNPs in the identified hot spots strongly correlate with each other in different human populations, despite the diversity of allelic variant frequencies. The functional role of only one site is known. The replacement of valine with methionine at position 152 enhances the affinity of MICA to NKG2D receptor. As the hot spots are dispersed throughout the entire ECD sequences, they may play a role other than modulating affinity with the NKG2D receptor interaction. We recommend that Ag sets used to validate anti-MICA/MICB mAbs meet two criteria. First, they should include both MICA and MICB alleles, as these genes have highly similar sequences. Second, the alleles should cover the variability observed in the identified hot spots.
Melatonin in Th17/Treg differentiation: the contribution of the hormone's own production by T lymphocytes
Authors: Glebezdina N. S. , Kuklina E. M. , Nekrasova I. V.
Published: June 2023

The hormone melatonin is involved in regulation of functioning of almost all organs and systems of the organism. In the immune system, T lymphocytes are an important target of melatonin: they express specific melatonin receptors with different affinities – membrane MT1 and MT2 and nuclear RORa, as well as intracellular molecules that nonspecifically bind melatonin at high concentrations. Moreover, many in vitro studies reveal their own production of melatonin by T lymphocytes in response to polyclonal activation and its involvement as autocrine or paracrine factor in the induction of IL-2 and IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) synthesis by T cells, with melatonin receptors involvement in implementation of these effects. Since IL-2/IL-2R-dependent signal is a key event in T lymphocytes proliferative response induction, intrinsic melatonin seems to be directly involved at least in the clonal expansion of these cells. In this work, we investigated the contribution of T cells’ melatonin to regulation of the next stage of T lymphocyte activation, namely, the differentiation of T helper populations Th17 and Treg. It was shown that blockade of both membrane and nuclear melatonin receptors did not cause statistically significant changes in Th17 differentiation, although the trend was fixed for a decrease. Simultaneously, CD4+FoxP3+Т cells level decreased under the nonselective blockade of membrane hormone receptors, and Treg-associated cytokine TGF-b concentration in activated cultures supernatants decreased both in case of MT1/MT2 nonselective blockade and MT2 selective blockade. The data indicate that melatonin produced by T lymphocytes in culture can contribute to the control of naive CD4+T cell differentiation into Treg in vitro, and the hormone effects are mediated by membrane melatonin receptors. The presence of a large number targets with different affinities for melatonin in T lymphocytes determines the key role of the hormone concentration in its effects on these cells. And when interpreting data on melatonin-dependent regulation of Treg, it is important to take into account the hormone’s own production by lymphocytes, since T cells’ melatonin can mask the exogenous hormone effects or interfere with its action due to competitive binding to hormone receptors.
Regulation of kisspeptin-54 activity of indolamine-2,3-dioxygenase and apoptosis of peripheral blood lymphocytes
Authors: Gorbunova O. L. , Shirshev S. V.
Published: June 2023

Pregnancy is a phenomenon of natural semi-allogeneic transplantation, since the fetus is half alien due to the expression of paternal antigens. It was found that the hypothalamic hormone kisspeptin during pregnancy is produced by the syncytiotrophoblast of the placenta and participates in the formation of a new specific hormonal background. Several forms of the hormone circulate in the blood of pregnant women: kisspeptin-10, kisspeptin-14 and kisspeptin-54 (according to the number of amino acid residues in the hormone molecule), but the main active form is kisspeptin-54. The main mechanism for the formation of immune tolerance during pregnancy is the induction of the expression of the enzyme indolamine-2,3- dioxygenase (IDO) by antigen-presenting cells of peripheral blood, resulting in the catalysis of tryptophan (Trp) to kynurenins (KYN) blocking the activation and causing apoptosis of cytotoxic CD8+T lymphocytes in the zone of contact of maternal immune cells with placental-fetal complex antigens. In addition, during pregnancy, an important role is assigned to the process of apoptosis, since activated cells can be potentially dangerous for the developing fetus. Immunocompetent blood cells express a specific membrane receptor of kisspeptin (KISS-1R). Since kisspeptin-54 enters the systemic circulation only during pregnancy, the hormone has an effect on immune cells only during this period.

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of kisspeptin-54 in concentrations comparable to its level

during physiological pregnancy on IDO activity and apoptosis of peripheral blood lymphocytes.

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) obtained from 10 healthy non-pregnant women of reproductive age (from 23 to 32 years) were used as the object of the study. Lymphocyte apoptosis was assessed in PBMC suspension by staining with annexin-V and propidium iodide. The determination of the number of cells in the early and late stages of apoptosis was carried out in the isolated gate of lymphocytes. IDO activity in PBMC was determined spectrophotometrically by changes in the concentration of KYN, the first stable metabolite of the Trp decay pathway.

It was found that kisspeptin-54 at a concentration of 4.6 pM corresponding to the second trimester of pregnancy significantly enhances the activity of IDO, increases the number of cells in the early and late stages of apoptosis. Thus, kisspeptin-54 is an important mechanism for controlling these processes during pregnancy, aimed at protecting the semi-allogeneic fetus from adverse immune reactions of the mother and the favorable development of pregnancy.
MEDICAL RESIDENCE IN ORTHOPEDICS AND TRAUMATOLOGY – NATIONAL OVERVIEW AND ANALYSIS OF EVALUATION CONCORDANCE BETWEEN CNRM/SBOT DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: PETERLE VIVIANE CRISTINA ULIANA , KIMURA LUIZ KOITI , BEZERRA JUNIOR PAULO EMILIANO , PEREIRA ANNE CAROLINE CASTRO , FRANÇA BRUNA PAIVA DE , RAMOS NATHALIA MOURA
Published: June 2023

ABSTRACT Objective Describe the national scenario of the orthopedics and traumatology Medical Residency Program (MRP) in 2020/2021, showing the distribution of vacancies by states and regions of Brazil, the number of residents and the percentage of agreement between the accredited services that offer the program by the Brazilian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology (SBOT) and by the National Commission for Medical Residency linked to the Ministry of Education (CNRM/MEC). Methods This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study. Data from the CNRM and SBOT system referring to residents attending orthopedics and traumatology Programs in 2020/2021 were analyzed. Results In the analyzed period, there were 2.325 medical residents in orthopedics and traumatology in vacancies authorized by the CNRM/MEC in Brazil. The southeast region was predominant, with 57.2% of vacancies, totaling 1.331 residents. Compared to other regions, the south region with 16.9% (392), the northeast with 15.1% (351), the midwest with 7.7% (180), and the north with 3.1% (71). In addition, there was an accreditation agreement of 53.8% in evaluating services between the SBOT and CNRM, with distinctions among the states. Conclusion The analysis showed differences between regions and states, considering the vacancies of PRM in orthopedics and traumatology and the concordance of evaluations by institutions accredited by MEC and SBOT. It is aim to work together with a view to qualifying and expanding residency programs for the training of specialist physicians, in accordance with the needs of the public health system and adequate medical practice, is necessary. The analysis during the pandemic period, associated with the restructuring of several health services, demonstrates the stability of the specialty in adverse scenarios. Level of evidence II; Economic And Decision Analyzes – Developing an Economic or Decision Model.
COMPARING GAIT AND HIP SCORES IN FEMORAL NECK AND INTERTROCHANTERIC FRACTURES
Authors: AKTI SEFA , ZEYBEK HAKAN
Published: June 2023

ABSTRACT Objective Treatment modality is controversial in the unstable IT fractures. Ideal hemiarthroplasty treatment for unstable IT fractures should be comparable to that for FN fractures. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare patients who underwent cementless hemiarthroplasty for a diagnosis of FN and unstable IT in terms of clinical outcomes, functional scores, and smartphone-based gait analysis data. Methods Case matching was applied to 50 patients with FN fracture and 133 patients with IT fracture who underwent hemiarthroplasty treatment, they were compared in terms of, preoperative and postoperative walking status, and Harris hip scores. Smartphone-based gait analysis was applied to 12 patients in the IT group and 14 patients in the FN group who could walk without support. Results There was no significant difference between patients with IT and FN fractures regarding Harris hip scores, preoperative, and postoperative walking status. In the gait analysis, gait velocity, cadence, step time, step length, and step time symmetry values were observed to be significantly better in patients in the FN group. Conclusion Cementless hemiarthroplasty operations for unstable IT fractures have similar hip scores to FN fractures. However, the walking speed and walking symmetry data were seen to be worse. This result should be considered in the selection of appropriate treatment. Level of evidence III; Retrospective study.
PROXIMAL HUMERAL LOCKING PLATE: A VIABLE ALTERNATIVE FOR FIXATION OF DISTAL FEMORAL FRACTURES IN CHILDREN
Authors: VALENZA WEVERLEY RUBELE , SONI JAMIL FAISSAL , BODANESE BRUNO HENRIQUE SCHUTA , ROSSETTO DEIVIDE MATEUS , KOSOVITS FRANCISCO GUILHERME DE PAULA , CORDEIRO PEDRO IVO PEDRONI
Published: June 2023

ABSTRACT Distal femoral metaphyseal fractures are rare in children, and the proximity of the fracture to the growth plate makes their approach challenging. Objective Evaluate outcomes and complications of treatment of distal femoral metaphyseal fractures in children with proximal humeral locking plates. Method Retrospective study between 2018 and 2021, including seven patients. The analysis included general characteristics, trauma mechanism, classification, clinical and radiographic outcomes, and complications. Results The mean follow-up was 20 months, the average age was nine years, five patients were boys, and six fractured on the right side. Five fractures were caused by car accidents, one by falling from their own height and one by playing soccer. Five fractures were classified as 33-M/3.2 and two as 33-M/3.1. Three fractures were open, Gustilo IIIA. All seven patients recovered mobility and resumed their pre-trauma activities. All seven healed, and one fracture was reduced to 5 degrees valgus, without any other complications. Six patients had the implant removed and did not present refracture. Conclusion Treatment of distal femoral metaphyseal fractures with proximal humeral locking plates is a viable option that offers good results and fewer complications, saving the epiphyseal cartilage. Level of Evidence II; Controlled study without randomization.
Photodynamic therapy in cancer treatment: properties and applications in nanoparticles
Authors: Younus L. A. , Mahmoud Z. H. , Hamza A. A. , Alaziz K. M. A. , Ali M. L. , Yasin Y. , Jihad W. S. , Rasheed T. , Alkhawaldeh A. K. , Ali F. K. , Kianfar E.
Published: June 2023

Abstract Most of the treatment strategies for tumors and other disorders is photodynamic therapy (PDT). For several years, increasing the efficiency of nanostructured treatment devices, including light therapy, has been considered in different treatment methods. Light Dynamics The use of nanomaterial in this method's production and progress. The use of nanoparticles as carriers is a promising accomplishment, since all the criteria for an ideal photodynamic therapy agent can be given with these nanomaterials. The kinds of nanoparticles that have recently been used in photodynamic therapy are mentioned in this article. Latest advancements are being explored in the use of inorganic nanoparticles and biodegradable polymer-based nanomaterial as carriers of photosynthetic agents. Photosynthetic nanoparticles, self-propagating nanoparticles, and conversion nanoparticles are among the successful photodynamic therapy nanoparticles addressed in this report.
Assimetria informacional, poder e sistemas deliberativos: uma análise de conflitos ambientais em Minas Gerais
Authors: Motta Filipe Mendes , Mendonça Ricardo Fabrino
Published: June 2023

RESUMO Introdução: Discutimos como a assimetria informacional é um fator crucial para a desestruturação de processos deliberativos. Essa questão está relacionada com o poder dos atores envolvidos e com os potenciais e limites para a tomada de boas decisões por sistemas deliberativos. Materiais e métodos: A partir de uma abordagem interpretativa, analisamos constrangimentos e assimetrias informacionais em conflitos ambientais sobre mineração no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Foi feito um acompanhamento sistemático de arenas de participação institucionalizadas (conselhos de políticas públicas) e do ativismo de atores da sociedade civil (como o Movimento pelas Serras e Águas de Minas). Foram feitas 45 entrevistas semiestruturadas com integrantes da sociedade civil atingidos pela mineração, burocratas e funcionários de mineradoras, dentre outros atores. Resultados: A análise enumera um conjunto de questões críticas, tais como: o risco da centralização de produção de informações sobre questões públicas por atores do mercado; a omissão ou disponibilização de informações dispersas para dificultar o posicionamento de opositores frente a novos projetos mineradores ou propostas de alterações de normativas; e o problema do uso de linguagem tecnocientífica sobre as questões tratadas, que dificulta a participação da sociedade civil. Discussão: Há duas camadas de injustiças epistêmicas que limitam o debate e envolvem a assimetria informacional: i) fatores estruturais como a oferta de informação sobre o problema discutido e as regras e formatos de espaços de participação; e ii) fatores mais contingentes ligados a diferentes ações estratégicas que envolvem desde a manipulação deliberada de conteúdo, até o uso estratégico de regras existentes. Nas conclusões sugerimos como criar condições para o surgimento de brechas nas discussões em torno da questão.
Racismo e Construção da Carreira: Estratégias de Enfrentamento Adotadas por Universitários Negros
Authors: Ancillotti Caio Gracco Lima , Silva Priscilla de Oliveira Martins da
Published: June 2023

Resumo O racismo é um fenômeno que impacta a vida da população negra, direcionando-a para uma condição de marginalização social, inclusive profissionalmente. Diante disso, o presente estudo, qualitativo, objetivou analisar as estratégias de enfrentamento ao racismo adotadas por universitários negros de uma instituição pública de ensino superior no processo de construção de suas carreiras. Adotando-se como referencial a Teoria de Construção da Carreira, 27 entrevistas semiestruturadas foram conduzidas com graduandos (16 do gênero feminino e 11 do gênero masculino) autodeclarados negros de uma universidade situada na região Sudeste do Brasil. Os dados coletados foram submetidos a Análise de Similitude, por meio do software IRaMuTeQ, que demonstrou, a partir de uma árvore máxima, que os discursos dos participantes estiveram centrados no termo “racismo” e em quatro troncos de similitude relacionados aos vocábulos: “negro”, “falar”, “situação” e “acontecer”. Os resultados indicaram que o racismo é um dos fatores que impactam a carreira dos sujeitos, sobretudo por sustentar práticas discriminatórias veladas e limitar oportunidades profissionais. Em resposta a ele, quatro estratégias de enfrentamento foram identificadas: a) diálogo com sujeitos próximos; b) busca por suporte junto à rede de apoio constituída na universidade; c) denúncia de seus impactos; e d) adoção de ações individuais de transformação da realidade. Os achados permitem identificar a adoção de diferentes estratégias individuais e coletivas de enfrentamento ao racismo, que devem ter seu desenvolvimento estimulado pelas instituições de ensino superior, a fim de que se tornem práticas sistematizadas que favoreçam a discussão sobre o fenômeno em âmbitos acadêmico e profissional.
The impacts of visual comfort on pediatric oncology intensive care units
Authors: Lima Mariana Zuliani Theodoro de , Serra Márcia Milena Pivatto , Piva Suelene Silva , Righetto Adriana Volpon Diogo
Published: June 2023

Abstract Patient's discomfort in hospital Intensive Care Units (ICUs) regarding infrastructure, the lack of natural light and complementary artificial light, as well as colours found in these environments are important humanization concerns directly affecting the physical and emotional well-being of patients, caregivers and the multidisciplinary team, especially in paediatric oncology ICUS, which are stressful environments. This paper sought to answer relevant questions about visual comfort and traces of stress experienced by caregivers and a multidisciplinary team in a paediatric oncology ICU. For this purpose, a Visual Comfort Questionnaire and a Lipp’s Stress Symptoms Inventory were applied to obtain participants´ feedback at a [hospital] in Brazil. The results showed that caregivers and employees pointed out the need to have more windows in the environment, addressing the importance of natural light for physical and emotional well-being. Based on this, a significant number of employees and companions associate stress to the everyday life in the ICU, which occurred mainly in the intermediate (resistance) or final (exhaustion) phases, according to the Lipp scale. These results showed the importance of a broader approach to hospital humanization.
Efeitos da incorporação de muros no comportamento da ventilação natural em habitações populares térreas
Authors: Costa Isabely Penina Cavalcanti da , Labaki Lucila Chebel , Lages Athos
Published: June 2023

Resumo A ventilação natural é uma importante estratégia de resfriamento passivo das edificações em climas tropicais. Entretanto, o aproveitamento desse recurso pode ser prejudicado por anteparos presentes no entorno das edificações, tais como os muros. Contudo, escassos estudos se dedicaram a quantificar a influência desses elementos no comportamento dos ventos. O objetivo dessa pesquisa foi investigar os efeitos da incorporação de muros nas condições de ventilação natural em habitações populares térreas. Com a utilização de simulações CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics), foram analisados quatro cenários: (1) edificação sem fechamento do lote; (2) com fechamento parcial; (3) com fechamento total e muro frontal sólido; e (4) com fechamento total e muro frontal vazado. Os resultados indicaram que a incorporação dos muros agravou as condições de ventilação existentes na edificação. O pior cenário para o aproveitamento dos ventos foi o fechamento total do lote com muros sólidos. A substituição de muros frontais sólidos por muros com componentes vazados gerou um incremento de 42% nos valores de velocidade do vento dentro da edificação. Assim, destaca-se que a inclusão de elementos vazados pode aliar a necessidade de delimitação do lote com menores impactos nas condições de ventilação natural.
Atualização do cenário da reciclagem de resíduos de construção e demolição no Brasil: 2008-2020
Authors: Paulino Rafaella Salvador , Lazari Carlos Humberto , Miranda Leonardo Fagundes Rosemback , Vogt Vanessa
Published: June 2023

Resumo A reciclagem de resíduos de construção e demolição (RCD) no Brasil tem se intensificado nos últimos 20 anos. Este artigo apresenta uma atualização do cenário da reciclagem de RCD no Brasil entre 1986 e 2008, exposta por Miranda et al. (2009), com atualizações até 2020. A compilação de dados foi realizada por meio do acesso à literatura científica, a normas e às Pesquisas Setoriais da Associação Brasileira para Reciclagem de Resíduos da Construção Civil e Demolição (Abrecon). A atividade de reciclagem de RCD no Brasil começou na década de 1980, com fraco crescimento até o final da década de 90. Em 2002, havia poucas usinas de reciclagem de RCD instaladas no país. A partir desse ano, com a publicação da Resolução Conama nº 307, percebeu-se tênue aumento na taxa de crescimento desse tipo de instalações. Com o aquecimento do setor, entre 2007 e 2013, e a aprovação da Política Nacional de Resíduos Sólidos (PNRS), a reciclagem de RCD se intensificou. Ainda assim, a distribuição das usinas no território nacional é bastante desigual, com maior concentração na região Sudeste. Até 2008, apenas 3,6% do RCD de todo o país era reciclado e, em 2018, esse valor aumentou para 45%. Uma possibilidade de minimizar o problema dos RCD em pequenos municípios com instrumentos de baixo investimento é a instalação de usinas móveis.
Life cycle assessment application in the optimum design of reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Angelin Andressa Fernanda , Bento Ricardo Couceiro , Gavioli Letícia Missiatto , Rossignolo João Adriano
Published: June 2023

Abstract The objective of this research was to evaluate the use of the Life Cycle Assessment methodology to assist decision-making in structural projects of reinforced concrete. Were studied structural models for an eight-story building, with classes of compressive strength (fck) of concrete ranging from 25 to 50 MPa. Also, were evaluated changes in the dimensions of structural elements, as well as the consumption of component materials of the structure. Results showed that the structural models for classes C40 obtained the best results for 67% of the categories of potential impacts assessed, with potential impact values ranging from 7.4% to 21.2%, including the possibility of saving 18 thousand kg of CO2 emitted. After carrying out an economic analysis, was observed that the structural model for the C40 concrete presented the optimal environmental-economic solution. The results of this research indicate the feasibility of using the Life Cycle Assessment methodology and economic analysis as tools to assist in decision-making during the design process of reinforced concrete structures.
Painéis aglomerados com resíduo de Pinus caribaea var. caribaea com adesivo bicomponente sustentável
Authors: Souza Matheus Viana de , Silva Sérgio Augusto Mello da , Cazella Pedro Henrique da Silva , Rodrigues Felipe Reis , Carneiro Tainah Eduarda Boian , Pinto Edna Moura , Martins Aline Redondo , Aouada Márcia Regina de Moura , Christoforo André Luis
Published: June 2023

Resumo Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo produzir e avaliar painéis aglomerados com resíduo de pinus medianteuma metodologia de produçãoaplicada para painéis homogêneos e outra para heterogêneos. Os painéis homogêneos e heterogêneos foram produzidos com densidade inicial de 0,550 g/cm³ e com 10% e 12% de resina de poliuretano derivado do óleo de mamona (PUR) respectivamente. Os parâmetros de prensagem foram de 5 MPa, com temperatura de 100 ºC e 10 min de prensagem, com um intervalo de 30 s. Os ensaios realizados seguiram a normativa NBR 14810-2 (ABNT, 2018). Observou-se que a reorganização das partículas dos painéis heterogêneos somada ao aumento do adesivo foram fatores que melhoraram as propriedades finais desses painéis, classificados para ser utilizados como objetos de decoração e na indústria moveleira, enquanto os painéis homogêneos não obtiveram classificação.
PREFACE: COMPUTATIONAL HEAT AND FLUID FLOW IN POROUS MEDIA (PART 1)
Authors: Tang Gui-Hua , Xie Gongnan , Gong Liang
Published: June 2023

This is the Preface of the Special Issue dedicated to the 8th Asian Symposium on Computational Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow (ASCHT 2021).
Silenus Boxes
Authors: Heuer Christopher
Published: June 2023

A review of Angela Vanhalen, The Moving Statues of Seventeenth-Century Amsterdam: Automata, Waxworks, Fountains, Labyrinths. Pittsburgh: Penn State Press, 2022, 236 pages, ISBN: 978-0-271-09160-0