bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Error-related negativity: neurocognitive transdiagnostic marker of anxiety disorders
Authors: Sagalakova Olga A. , Truevtsev Dmitry V. , Zhirnova Olga V.
Published: April 2021

The article is devoted to the analysis of the prospects for research on neurocognitive mechanisms of anxiety disorders. In response to limitations and contradictions in the logic of the categorical method of classification of mental disorders, the popularity of the dimensional approach, in which the emphasis shifts to the assessment of the severity of symptoms. The National Institute of Mental Health has developed the promising approach based on the search for systemic neurobiological foundations of mental disorders. Based on the project RDoC (Research Domain Criteria) the search for trans-diagnostic mechanisms of mental disorders has been updated. The logic of RDoC echoes the position of Russian pathopsychology, in which the syndrome of mental activity disorders is considered in dynamics, the mechanisms of the functioning of the psyche are qualified as identical in norm and pathology. In the study of anxiety-related disorders, the obvious commonality of the spectrum of manifestations that acquire nosological clarification against the background of the escalation of the severity of symptoms and secondary compensatory processes has repeatedly been put forward in the center of research attention. The aim of the article is a theoretical and methodological analysis of the neurocognitive basis of the errors monitoring system, characteristic of normal and excessively expressed in anxiety disorders, including ERP component error related negativity (ERN). As a result, it is shown that this neurocogitive marker, experimentally modeled in conflict tasks (e.g., Eriksens flanker task), is expected to be a probable transdiagnostic basis for anxiety-related disorders (social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder). The increase in the amplitude of ERN in internalization, uniting anxiety-depressive symptoms, is explained by individual differences in the readiness to detect error and sensitivity to incorrect decisions. At the moment, the study of ERN retains the tempted of simplified interpretations, the arbitrary establishment of direct causal connections between the neural basis and mental phenomena.
Reporting What’s Going on at the Neighbors from a Distance: Turkish News Channels’ Breaking News Coverage of the 2018 Missile Strikes against Syria
Authors: AKKOR GÜL Ayşen
Published: April 2021

The research variables of this study are “Turkish journalists’ role preferences” and “Turkish television channels’ use of sources” during the first eight hours of breaking news coverage of the 2018 missile strikes against Syria. The researcher employs content analysis to answer mainly two questions: “Did Turkish journalists perform roles other than “traditional disseminator?” and “Was their reporting balanced insofar as conflicting perspectives were treated equitably?” The study identifies that Turkish journalists preferred the “traditional journalist” role when reporting from Turkey but that of “social commentator” when reporting from abroad. Deviations from traditional journalism consisted of “reporting rumors,” “citing anonymous sources,” and “making personal references.” On the other hand, there was a lack of diversity and balance in the use of sources. For instance, no broadcast journalists reflected the opinions of Syrian refugees living in Turkey, and very few reported from anywhere near the scene of the action. Thus coverage was inadequate insofar as reporters largely focused on one side’s perspective.
Assessment of the spatial variability of soil chemical properties along a transect using multifractal analysis
Authors: Dafonte Dafonte Jorge , Valcárcel Armesto Montserrat , Da Silva Dias Rosane , Vidal Vázquez Eva , Paz González Antonio
Published: April 2021

The spatial variability of soil properties can be assessed through concepts of scale invariance, fractals and multifractals. The aim of this study was to characterize the scaling patterns and structural heterogeneity properties of general soil chemical properties along a short (i.e. 52 m large) transect. Field measurements were carried out at the experimental farm of CIAM located in Mabegondo, A Coruña, Spain. The studied transect was marked following land slope, and 66 soil samples were collected at the 0-20 cm depth every 0.8 m. The soil properties analyzed were: pH (H2O ), organic carbon content, exchangeable Ca, Mg and K, exchangeable acidity (H + Al), exchangeable bases (SB), cation exchange capacity (CEC), percent base saturation (V) and extractable P. The soil properties studied showed various degrees of multifractality. The spatial distribution of pH was characterized by quasi-monofractal behaviour; CEC, (H+Al) and OM, presented a relatively low degree of multifractality, and the other soil properties studied showed stronger degrees of multifractality, being the highest one for Olsen extractable P. In general, the scaling features of the properties studied implied a multifractal nature, where the low and high density regions scaled differently.
Vida y muerte de dos mujeres de Brigantium (NW de Iberia) mediante isótopos estables y antropología forense
Authors: Grandal-d'Anglade Aurora , Serrulla Rech Fernando , Tomás Botella Víctor , Pérez Rama Marta , Gómez María , Ramil González Emilio
Published: April 2021

En este trabajo se obtienen datos antropológicos e isotópicos a partir de los restos óseos de dos individuos de edad tardorromana a efectos de reconstruir sus condiciones de vida y las causas de su muerte. Se trata de dos esqueletos femeninos conservados en el Museo Arqueolóxico de A Coruña datados entre los siglos III a VI dC. Se han aplicado técnicas de antropología forense para determinar patologías y lesiones que puedan haber afectado a los individuos estudiados. Para el estudio de paleodieta, se ha extraído colágeno óseo que se analiza mediante espectrometría de masas de relaciones isotópicas. Las relaciones isotópicas de 13C/12C y 15N/14N obtenidas se comparan con datos procedentes de otras poblaciones contemporáneas. Los perfiles antropológicos confirman que se trata de mujeres adultas jóvenes, de posible ancestralidad caucásica, con signos de hiponutrición e infección crónica y cuyas señales isotópicas del colágeno muestran una importante contribución de los moluscos en su dieta. Estos resultados concuerdan con los datos arqueológicos disponibles, reflejando el progresivo empobrecimiento de la ciudad durante la crisis del Bajo Imperio.
Sustainability of stone materials in the built environment of rural regions: a review
Authors: Sanjurjo-Sánchez Jorge , Alves Carlos
Published: April 2021

Stones has been used from pre-historical times with different purposes and this historical use can be seen as an extended record of its sustainability, regarding extraction procedures and consequences, uses in building and maintenance to overcome decay. We discuss in this paper conceptual considerations on the sustainability of local use of rocks in a small scale (what will be assumed to define a “rural” scope), covering both in situ uses, mostly as cave housing, and extracted materials for creation of structures. Our discussion will develop around two main axes: resources consumption (including the rocks themselves and rock wastes resulting from other activities) and pollution impacts (on the surrounding environment and in the users of the rock structures). It will be seen that the main concerns will be related to specific spots with enhanced environmental or cultural value (where small changes can have enormous impacts). Other issues have minimal impact or can be dealt by design options. We consider also possible positive impacts resulting from the use of rock materials, namely in the social and economic components, including the use of rock wastes as resources and the touristic potential of rock quarries, structures and human-made landscapes.
Hand Nicotine and Cotinine In Children Exposed to Cigars: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mahabee-Gittens E. Melinda , Matt Georg E. , Jandarov Roman J. , Merianos Ashley L.
Published: April 2021

Objectives: Past research has not examined secondhand and thirdhand smoke (THS) exposure in children of cigar smokers. We examined hand nicotine and cotinine levels in children of cigar smokers to explore the contribution of cigar smoke to tobacco smoke exposure (TSE). Methods:
Participants were children (N = 24; mean (SD) age = 6.5 (3.6) years) whose parents smoked cigars only or poly-used cigars and/or cigarettes. Primary outcomes were hand nicotine and urinary cotinine levels. Results: All children had detectable hand nicotine (range: 7.6-312.5ng/wipe)
and cotinine (range: 0.3-100.3ng/ml). Positive correlations were found between hand nicotine and cotinine (r = 0.693, p = .001), hand nicotine and parents who also smoked cigarettes (r = 0.407, p = .048), and hand nicotine and number of smokers around the child (r = 0.436, p = .03). Hand nicotine
(r = -0.464, p = .02), but not cotinine (r = -0.266, p = .26), was negatively correlated with child age. Multiple regression results indicated a positive association between hand nicotine and cotinine (p = .002; semi-partial r2 = 0.415), irrespective of child age. Conclusions:
The significant association of hand nicotine with urinary cotinine suggests that THS pollution should be assessed in evaluating children's overall TSE to cigars and other tobacco products, and hand nicotine may be a proxy for overall TSE. Younger children may have increased THS pollutant uptake.
Classification of traumatic integumentary tissue degloving
Authors:   Ilizarov National Medical Research Centre for Traumatology and Orthopedics, Kurgan, Russian Federation, Korostelev M.Yu. , Shikhaleva N.G. ,   Ilizarov National Medical Research Centre for Traumatology and Orthopedics, Kurgan, Russian Federation, Klimov O.V. ,   Ilizarov National Medical Research Centre for Traumatology and Orthopedics, Kurgan, Russian Federation
Published: April 2021

Introduction Detachment or sharp gross prolonged displacement of the skin, subcutaneous fatty tissue from the underlying fascia over more than 1 % of the body surface with disorders of blood supply to these and sometimes underlying tissues results from high-energy mechanical action of various moving objects and force applied at an angle. Purpose to develop a classification of integumentary tissue detachments based on the variety of clinical types, severity, extent, combination of injuries with a possible quantitative assessment of their severity and extent. Methods Analysis of the literature and our own experience of treating 40 patients with detachments of integumentary tissues enabled to identify criteria for classifying patients into groups. Results A classification and rating scales were developed that reflect the area, depth of tissue damage, localization, general condition of the patient and the stage of the pathological process. Discussion The analysis of the literature on this topic showed that, to date, none of the proposed classifications is optimal. There is no clear definition of the area of compromised integumentary tissues relative to the entire surface of the human body. The issue of pathological process staging has not been reflected; damage and crushing of bones, muscle tissue, neurovascular formations have not been reflected; there is no clearly formulated algorithm for treating a patient depending on the stage and severity of tissue damage. Conclusion Application of the classification of integumentary tissue detachments which has been proposed enables to more objectively assess the nature of local tissue damage, taking into account t he general condition of the patient.
Outcomes of the proximal femur fractures repaired with half-pin devices as compared with various types of osteosynthesis
Authors:   Tashkent Medical Academy, Tashkent, the Republic of Uzbekistan, Salokhiddinov F.B.
Published: April 2021

Objective To review outcomes of the proximal femur fractures repaired with half-pin apparatus in comparison with various types of osteosynthesis. Material and methods The study enrolled 86 patients with proximal femur fractures treated at the general hospital of the Tashkent Medical Academy. Of these, 52 were females and 34 were males. The mean age of the participants was 54.1 ± 1.1 years (range, 22 to 92 years). The effectiveness of the treatment was evaluated depending on the treatment method used. The patients were divided into 3 groups: group I included 39 patients who underwent closed percutaneous osteosynthesis with Ilizarov wires; group II consisted of 29 patients who underwent osteosynthesis with bone plates; group III included 18 patients who underwent surgical treatment using the external half-pin fixator we developed. Results Outcomes were evaluated in 58 patients at one to two years. In group I, good results were rated as good obtained in 45.8% (n = 11), as fair in 33.3% (n = 8) and poor in 20.9 % (n = 5) of patients due to nonunited fracture, avascular necrosis of the femoral head and hip joint ankylosis. Group II showed 68.4 % (n = 12) good, 4 (21 % (n = 4) fair and 10.5 % (n = 2) poor results. The latter occurred due to patient noncompliance and unauthorized early removal of the plaster cast. Group III demonstrated 73.4 % (n = 11) good, 13.3% (n = 2) fair and 13.3 % (n = 2) poor outcomes. Patients with poor outcomes developed lesion of the femoral neck following a subcapital femoral neck fracture at 2 months of frame removal that healed with a 2.0 cm limb length discrepancy. Conclusion The external half-pin fixator offered could facilitate stable bone fixation after reduction and gradual dynamic compression for successful bone healing. The bone fixation period with external half-pin fixation device was dependent on the fracture type and averaged to 4 ± 1 months in type A fracture and 5 ± 1 months in type B fractures. Fixation of the proximal femur fractures with half-pin fixation device allows stabilization of the general state of patients, easier postoperative care, prevention of secondary complications and early exercises for the adjacent joints. The technique offered can be a method of choice among the current technologies.
Effectiveness of vascularized and conventional bone grafting in achieving union in humeral pseudarthrosis
Authors:   National Medical Research Center of Traumatology and Orthopedics n.a. N.N. Priorov, Moscow, Russian Federation, Golubev I.O. ,   Peoples Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation, Sarukhanyan A.R. ,   Peoples Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation, Merkulov M.M. ,   National Medical Research Center of Traumatology and Orthopedics n.a. N.N. Priorov, Moscow, Russian Federation, Bushuev O.M. ,   National Medical Research Center of Traumatology and Orthopedics n.a. N.N. Priorov, Moscow, Russian Federation, Shiryaeva G.N. ,   National Medical Research Center of Traumatology and Orthopedics n.a. N.N. Priorov, Moscow, Russian Federation, Kutepov I.A. ,   National Medical Research Center of Traumatology and Orthopedics n.a. N.N. Priorov, Moscow, Russian Federation, Maksimov A.A. ,   National Medical Research Center of Traumatology and Orthopedics n.a. N.N. Priorov, Moscow, Russian Federation, Kapyrina M.V. ,   National Medical Research Center of Traumatology and Orthopedics n.a. N.N. Priorov, Moscow, Russian Federation, Balyura G.G. ,   National Medical Research Center of Traumatology and Orthopedics n.a. N.N. Priorov, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: April 2021

Introduction Humeral fractures comprise from 5 % to 8 % of all fractures. Nonunion rate of humeral fractures is 5.5–8.7% with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) technique and 3–5.6 % with the use of locked intramedullary nailing technique. Its frequent causes are infection, poor vascularity, severe comminution or technical errors. Purpose Analysis of effectiveness of vascularized bone grafting and non-vascularized bone grafting in humeral nonunion and defect treatment. Material and methods Surgical management of 69 patients with humeral nonunion was performed from 2010 to 2017 at a single institution in two groups. Vascularized bone grafts were used in 41 cases and non-vascularized ones in 28 cases. X-rays and CT-scans of all the patients were studied. Results In the vascularized bone grafting group, union was achieved in 36 cases (88 %) after four to 6 months; in non-vascularized bone group union was achieved in 20 cases (71 %) after eight to 12 months. Conclusion In post-traumatic humeral nonunion and bone defects, after two or more failed surgical procedures performed previously, vascularized bone grafting yields more satisfactory results and reduces the total healing time.
Application of the technique of autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis in the treatment of patients with osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint
Authors:   V.A. Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Nurmukhametov M.R. , Makarov M.A. ,   V.A. Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Byalik E.I. ,   V.A. Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Khrennikov Ya.B. ,   FSCC for Specialized Types of Medical Care and Medical Technologies FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation, Byalik V.E. ,   V.A. Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Nesterenko V.A. ,   V.A. Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: April 2021

(OA of the first MTP joint). On the other hand, it is known that the technique of autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis has been successfully used for osteochondral defects in the hip, knee and ankle joints. Therefore, we have proposed to use this technique in the treatment of patients with OA of the first MTP joint. Purpose To study the possibility of surgical treatment of patients with OA of the first MTP joint with the use of chondroplasty utilizing the technique of autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis, to demonstrate the immediate and mid-term results of such operations. Materials and methods Chondroplasty was performed in 15 patients (16 feet) with OA of the first MTP joint. The examination determined the range of motion in of the first MTP joint; the condition was assessed according to such scales as VAS for pain, AOFAS, FFI. Chondroplasty in of the first MTP joint was performed with the technique of induced chondrogenesis using a collagen matrix. The results of the operations were evaluated after 3, 6 and 12 months. Results As early as 3 months after the operation, there was a marked significant increase in the range of motion and a decrease in pain of the first MTP joint. Moderate positive dynamics were observed after 6 and 12 months. Conclusion The results of the operations showed that chondroplasty of the first MTP joint is an effective method of surgical treatment that provides pain relief and significantly improves the quality of life of patients with OA of the first MTP joint. However, it is necessary to study long-term results.
Treatment of a patient with multiple myeloma of the femur
Authors:   Moscow regional clinical and research institute by M.F. Vladimirsky, Moscow, Russian Federation, Shevyrev K.V. , Voloshin V.P. ,   Moscow regional clinical and research institute by M.F. Vladimirsky, Moscow, Russian Federation, Shavyrin D.A. ,   Moscow regional clinical and research institute by M.F. Vladimirsky, Moscow, Russian Federation, Mitina T.A. ,   Moscow regional clinical and research institute by M.F. Vladimirsky, Moscow, Russian Federation, Trifonova E.V. ,   Moscow regional clinical and research institute by M.F. Vladimirsky, Moscow, Russian Federation, Martynenko D.V. ,   Moscow regional clinical and research institute by M.F. Vladimirsky, Moscow, Russian Federation, Oshkukov S.A. ,   Moscow regional clinical and research institute by M.F. Vladimirsky, Moscow, Russian Federation, Stepanov E.V. ,   Moscow regional clinical and research institute by M.F. Vladimirsky, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: April 2021

Introduction Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant tumor that causes widespread bone damage. The bone is involved in 90 % of MM patients, and 60% of patients develop pathologic fractures. Material and methods We report a case of combined surgical treatment and chemotherapy of a multiple myeloma patient who sustained a pathological diaphyseal fracture of the left femur and later presented with a lytic myeloma lesion in the right femur. Closed reduction and interlocking intramedullary (IM) nailing of the left femur was performed for the patient who was diagnosed with bone destruction in the shaft of the right femur a few months later. The right femur was fixed with interlocking IM nail for prophylaxis. Results The left femur consolidated at 6 months. The patient had no pain in the right femur, and enlargement in the bone destruction was not seen in the femur. The patient could ambulate with a cane with signs of deforming arthritis in the adjacent joints of the lower limbs. Discussion Three common surgical approaches used for bone tumors being complicated or not complicated by a pathologic fracture include nailing/plating, bone replacement and joint arthroplasty. Bone tumor replacement with oncological endoprostheses can be produced in specialized oncological orthopaedic units and is not available with regular trauma and orthopaedic services for different reasons. The operating orthopedic surgeon is to choose the appropriate implant to address the tumor involvement. Conclusion Interlocking IM nailing can be the method of choice for a pathologic fracture or for prophylactic bone fixation with appropriate indications identified with the Mirels's scoring system. Intramedullary nailing offers the advantage of minimally invasive stability for the operated limb and early weight-bearing in contrast to plate fixation treatment for fractures and prophylactic plating.
Ferritin status impact on hepcidin response to endurance exercise in physically active women along different phases of the menstrual cycle
Authors: Alfaro Magallanes VM , Barba Moreno L , Peinado AB
Published: April 2021

Serum ferritin has been proposed as a predictor of hepcidin concentrations in response to exercise. However, this fact has not been studied in physically-active women. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to analyse the hepcidin response at different ferritin status before and after running exercise in physically active females. Fifteen eumenorrheic women performed a 40-min running protocol at 75% of VO2peak speed in different menstrual cycle phases (early-follicular phase, mid-follicular phase and luteal phase). Blood samples were collected pre-exercise, 0h post-exercise and 3h post-exercise. For statistics, participants were divided into two groups according to their pre-exercise ferritin levels (<20 and ≥20 μg/L). Through menstrual cycle, hepcidin was lower in both early follicular phase (p=0.024; 64.81±22.48 ng/ml) and mid-follicular phase (p=0.007; 64.68±23.91 ng/ml) for <20 μg/L ferritin group, in comparison with ≥20 μg/L group (81.17±27.89 and 79.54±22.72 ng/ml, respectively). Hepcidin showed no differences between both ferritin groups in either pre-exercise, 0h post-exercise and 3h post-exercise. Additionally, no association between pre-exercise ferritin and hepcidin levels 3h post-exercise (r=-0.091; p=0.554) was found. Menstrual cycle phase appears to influence hepcidin levels depending on ferritin reserves. In particular, physically-active females with depleted ferritin reserves seems to present lower hepcidin levels during the early-follicular phase and mid-follicular phase. However, no association between ferritin and hepcidin levels was found in this study. Hence, ferritin levels alone may not be a good predictor of hepcidin response to exercise in this population. Multiple factors such as sexual hormones, training loads and menstrual bleeding must be taken into account.
An Advance Request: The Accessibility of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) for Patients Who Loose Decision-Making Capacity
Authors: Harris Natasha
Published: April 2021

Since the legalization of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) in Canada in 2016, there have been discussions regarding the extension of this service to patients who lose decision-making capacity but have made a prior advance request for physician-assisted suicide. Both caregivers and physicians have shown some support for allowing patients to make advance requests for MAID. The proposed changes to the legislation would remove the mandatory 10 day waiting period and include a waiver of final consent for those who loose decision-making capacity following their MAID request.
Taxonomic Notes on Smicronyx Schoenherr, 1843 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) from Turkey
Authors: Erbey Mahmut , Bolu Halil
Published: April 2021

Four species of the genus Smicronyx Schoenherr (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) were examined in this study with Smicronyx albosquamosus Wollaston, S. coecus Reich, and S. syriacus Faust reported for the first time in Turkey. Given that S. jungermanniae Wollaston, S. reichii (Gyllenhal), S. sordidus LeConte, and S. fulvus LeConte were previously reported from Turkey, there are now seven species of Smicronyx in the insect fauna of Turkey. Specimens of S. albosquamosus, S. coecus, S. syriacus, and S. jungermanniae were collected from almond trees, Amygdalus communis L., in Eastern Southern Anatolia Region of Turkey and subjected to taxonomic study using primarily genitalia and reproductive structures to provide descriptions of these species with comparisons with previous studies.
Molecular Characterization and Expression Profiling of Chemosensory Proteins in MaleEogystia hippophaecolus(Lepidoptera: Cossidae)
Authors: Li Zhenxiao , Liu Liu , Zong Shixiang , Tao Jing
Published: April 2021

Eogystia hippophaecolus Hua, Chou, Fang et Chen (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) is a notorious carpenterworm pest of sea buckthorn, Hippophae rhamnoides L. (Elaeagnaceae). Chemosensory proteins (CSPs) are thought to be responsible for initial biochemical recognition during olfactory perception by the insect. We examined the structure, function, and expression profiles of these proteins in four structures (e.g., antennae, labipalp, legs, and external genitalia) of male adults. Molecular weight, isoelectric point, hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of proteins, and signal peptide prediction of 18 E. hippophaecolus CSPs (EhipCSPs) were investigated via software. Expression profiles in the four male structures were analyzed by fluorescence quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Bioinformatics analysis showed that most EhipCSPs are low-molecular-weight proteins with hydrophobic regions and a high proportion of alpha-helices, consistent with the general characteristics of insect CSPs. Eight EhipCSPs (EhipCSP2, EhipCSP5, EhipCSP7, and EhipCSP13–17) were predominantly expressed in the labipalp (P < 0.01), and three (EhipCSP6, EhipCSP8, and EhipCSP9) were predominantly expressed in legs (P < 0.01). We speculate that these proteins may be related to contact sensations, host recognition, and other functions. Two EhipCSPs (EhipCSP4 and EhipCSP11) were highly expressed in the external genitalia (P < 0.01), suggesting that they may be involved in spousal positioning or mating activities. Most EhipCSPs were differentially expressed in the four structures, with wide overall expression, indicating an important role in olfactory recognition in multiple tissues. Our findings establish the foundation for further investigation of EhipCSPs and potential development of nonpesticide control measures.
Clinical Presentation of Iranian Patients Affected with COVID-19: A Thousand Faces Disease
Authors: Mostafaei Ali , Ghojazadeh Morteza , Hajebrahimi Sakineh , Abolhasanpour Nasrin , Salehi-Pourmehr Hanieh
Published: April 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Iran is part of the worldwide pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The present study aimed to demonstrate the clinical characteristics of patients affected by COVID-19, in our tertiary teaching hospital. Medical records and compiled data of 668 patients with suspected COVID-19 were obtained retrospectively between January to April 2020. The present study outcomes included demographic features of infected patients, underlying diseases and conditions, the relationship between the results of reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or CT-scan with the manifestations of the disease, mortality rate, and age distribution of fatalities among men and women. The median age of hospitalized patients was 63 years old (from 18 to 94). The patients’ chief complaints in the admission time were cough, dyspnea, fever, and gastrointestinal problems, respectively. Hospitalized patients' common comorbidities were hypertension (HTN), and cardiovascular disease (CVD) (24%), diabetes mellitus (DM) (21.5%), asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (6%), or other underlying diseases (15.5%). One-third of patients had no comorbidity according to the data of medical records. In hospitalized patients, 169 (84.5%) had positive RT-PCR, and 156 (78%) had positive chest CT findings. The mortality rate of males was higher than females (66.3% vs. 33.3%) and in patients with positive RT-PCR compared to patients with positive chest CT-scan findings. The majority of deaths had a history of DM or HTN/CVD in their medical records. The chief complaint of patients was cough. DM and HTN or CVD were the common underlying disease related to death in hospitalized cases. Besides, the hospitalization and mortality rate in males was higher than in females. About 87% of dead hospitalized cases had positive RT-PCR results, and this rate was 82% for chest CT results.
Construction and Characterization of 1F5 Chimeric Anti-CD20 Monoclonal Antibodies: an Efficient Splicing by Overlap Extension-polymerase Chain Reaction Technique
Authors: Khademi Fatemeh , Mohammadi Pantea , Mostafaei Ali
Published: April 2021

Despite the unparalleled success of anti-CD20-targeted immunotherapy, the currently available mAbs are not sufficiently efficacious in the treatment of lymphoma. 1F5 is one of a panel of anti-CD20 mAbs that was used in the B-cell lymphoma serotherapy. Despite the efficacy of murine 1F5 mAbs in lymphoma patients, the 1F5 chimeric antibodies with human effector functionality are yet to be approved and widely used in the treatment of lymphoma. In this study, the conversion of 1F5 mAb from mouse IgG2a to human-mouse chimeric IgG1 was achieved and the chimeric antibody was partially characterized. We constructed the 1F5 chimeric mouse-human anti-CD20 antibody genes using an efficient Splicing by overlap extension-polymerase chain reaction (SOE-PCR) technique and cloned the chimeric heavy and light genes in pBudCE4.1 mammalian expression vector, followed by purification of the expressed chimeric 1F5 mAbs using affinity chromatography. Our investigation also included the biological properties of purified chimeric antibodies. The generated 1F5 chimeric mAbs mediate complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) against Raji and Daudi Burkitt's lymphoma cell lines, which were comparable with rituximab and exhibit superior reduction in cell viability in vitro, compared to rituximab. The current study indicated that the generated chimeric 1F5 mAbs has potential CDC and ADCC activity which was comparable with rituximab whereas it exhibits a superior reduction in cell viability, compared to rituximab. Our work contributes to future studies involving in vivo biological functions and the application of the 1F5 chimeric antibody.
Autologous Natural Killer Cell-enrichment for Immune Cell Therapy: Preclinical Setting Phase, Shiraz Experience
Authors: Rezaeifard Somayeh , Heike Yuji , Masuyama Jun-Ichi , Rezvani Alireza , Vojdani Reza , Erfani Nasrollah
Published: April 2021

Natural killer (NK) cell therapy has proven to be a promising approach for the treatment of malignancies. Osaki method for ex-vivo autologous NK cell expansion has been recently introduced in Japan. To start clinical trial phase I at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in collaboration with the Japanese group, this preclinical setting study aimed to evaluate the proliferative efficacy of the method, the activation status of expanded autologous NK cells, and the likely unwanted contamination of the final cell product. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from 5 healthy individuals' peripheral blood and transferred directly to the specified initial culture bag containing anti-CD52 and anti-CD3 and Interleukin (IL)-2. The cells were cultured for 14-17 days in an incubator, during which the cells received condition media, and underwent several passages into bigger culture bags. All the procedures were carried out in a cleanroom and associated facilities. Before and after activation PBMCs were analyzed for their phenotype and cytotoxic activity; using flow cytometry and cytokine release assay. Our results indicated that NK (CD3-CD16+/-CD56+) cells were expanded 510-fold on average (range 200-1100 fold), and the purity of NK cells per whole lymphocytes exceeded 68%. The expanded cells were highly lytic as indicated by in-vitro cytotoxic assay, with a strong expression of Natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D) and CD16. The prepared final cell products were negative for HCV, HBV, HIV, mycoplasma, and endotoxin. In the preclinical phase, large numbers of activated and un-contaminated NK cells from healthy individuals' peripheral blood were successfully generated. The method seems to provide ample clean cell product with no contamination and has the potential to be used for NK cell therapy in future clinical trials, suitable to be infused back to the donors in phase I clinical trial.
Immunodeficiency, Centromeric Region Instability, and Facial Anomalies Syndrome (ICF) in a Boy with Variable Clinical and Immunological Presentations
Authors: Bemanian Mohammad Hassan , Arshi Saba , Nabavi Mohammad , Vafaee-Shahi Mohammad , Fallahpour Morteza , Shokri Sima , Rezaeifar Afshin , Shahzadi Hossein , Atashrazm Fatemeh
Published: April 2021

Immunodeficiency, centromeric instability, and facial anomalies (ICF) syndrome is a rare primary immunodeficiency disorder characterized by recurrent infections and low immunoglobulin levels due to variable combined immunodeficiency, and centromeric region instability, and facial dysmorphism. We describe a 12-year-old boy with recurrent respiratory tract infections, facial anomalies, scoliosis, and psychomotor retardation. He had recurrent pneumonia with low serum IgG and IgM levels during infancy and preschool age. Later at the age of 10, he developed recurrent ear infections. An IgA and IgM deficiency was found accompanied by a normal B-cell and T-cell count as well as an impaired candida-induced T-cell proliferation. Further evaluations revealed a missense mutation in the DNMT3B gene on chromosome 20. Chromosomal analysis showed a sunburst multi-radial feature on chromosome 1, which is a hallmark of ICF syndrome. The genetic mutation and chromosomal abnormality along with clinical findings are compatible with the diagnosis of ICF syndrome. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that scoliosis is observed in an ICF patient. The additional variable clinical symptoms in the case were the presence of spastic gait as well as hypogammaglobulinemia with immunoglobulin isotype switch at different ages.
Decreased Inhibition of Proliferation and Induction of Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cell Lines (T47D and MCF7) from Treatment with Conditioned Medium Derived from Hypoxia-Treated Wharton’s Jelly MSCs Compared with Normoxia-Treated MSCs
Authors: Widowati Wahyu , Murti Harry , Widyastuti Halida , Laksmitawati Dian Ratih , Rizal Rizal , Kusuma Hanna Sari Widya , Sumitro Sutiman Bambang , Widodo M. Aris , Bachtiar Indra
Published: April 2021

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are an appealing source of adult stem cells for cell therapy due to the high rate of proliferation, self-renewal capability, and applicable therapy. Wharton’s jelly (WJ), the main component of the umbilical cord extracellular matrix, comprises multipotent stem cells with a high proliferation rate and self-renewal capability and has anti-cancer properties. MSCs have been reported to secrete a variety of cytokines that have a cytotoxic effect in various cancers. Oxygen tension affects MSCs proliferation, cytokines level but no in surface markers expression, MSCs’ differentiation. We explored the cytotoxic effect and inducing apoptosis of Wharton’s jelly derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJMSCs) secretions from normoxic WJMSCs (WJMSCs-norCM) (CM: conditioned medium) and hypoxic WJMSCs (WJMSCs-hypoCM) in breast cancer cell lines (T47D and MCF7).
Materials and Methods: Cytotoxic activity was determined using the MTS assay. RT-PCR was performed to measure the expression of apoptosis-inducing genes, specifically P53, BAX, and CASP9, and the antiapoptotic gene BCL-2.
Results: WJMSCs-norCM and WJMSCs-hypoCM were potent inhibitors of the proliferation in both cell lines. WJMSCs-norCM had more anticancer activity in T47D and MCF7. The IC50 value of WJMSCs-norCM on MCF7 was 42.34%, and on T47D was 42.36%. WJMSCs-norCM significantly induced the gene expression of apoptotic P53, BAX, and CASP9 and insignificantly decreased the antiapoptotic gene BCL-2 in both MCF7 and T47D cells. WJMSCs-CM has anticancer activity by inducing P53, BAX, and CASP9 apoptotic genes. Conclusion: WJMSCs-norCM has more anticancer activity than WJMSCs-hypoCM.
Comparison of Long-Acting G-CSF (PD-Lasta) with Short-Acting G-CSF (PD-Grastim) in Neutrophil Recovery Following Consolidation Chemotherapy with High-Dose Cytarabine in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Esfandbod Mohsen , Agha Bararzadeh Fatemeh , Faraz Mona , Zarrabi Fariba , Toogeh Gholamreza
Published: April 2021

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients are often neutropenic as a result of their disease alone or following their chemotherapy. In this randomized clinical trial the efficacy of Iranian short-acting (PD-Grastim) and long-acting G-CSF (PD-Lasta) were compared in term of time to recovery from neutropenia in de novo AML patients following the consolidation chemotherapy.
Materials and Methods: Patients (n = 51) received one or two courses of Cytarabine and Daunorubicin as an induction. If complete remission was achieved, the treatment was followed by high-dose Cytarabine as consolidation chemotherapy. Twenty- four hours after the consolidation chemotherapy, patient were randomized to receive either daily short-acting G-CSF (PD-Grastim) (300 µg/kg) or single-dose long-acting G-CSF (PDLasta) (6 mg).
Results: The median time to recovery of neutrophils was 11.00 and 13.00 days for short-acting G-CSF (PDGrastim) (n=22) and long-acting G-CSF (PD-Lasta) (n=29) groups, respectively (U=186.5, P>0.05 two-tailed). Incidence of adverse effects was similar in both short-acting G-CSF (PD-Grastim) and long-acting G-CSF (PDLasta) groups.
Conclusion: Overall, data show that Iranian long-acting G-CSF (PD-Lasta) was not significantly different with Iranian short-acting G-CSF (PD-Grastim).
Imatinib Efficacy, Safety and Resistance in Iranian Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: A Review of Literature
Authors: Amouei Asiyeh , Daeian Nesa , Khezrnia Seyedeh Sana , Mansouri Ava , Hadjibabaie Molouk
Published: April 2021

Background: Imatinib is the gold standard in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients. Resistance to imatinib is interfering with patients’ responses and their survivals.
Materials and Methods: We designed a systematic search to find relevant studies by applying appropriate keywords in PubMed, Web of science, Scopus, Ovid, ProQuest, Science direct and Google scholar for English studies. We also investigated the aforementioned terms’ correspondence in Magiran, Scientific information database (SID) and Google scholar for Persian articles.
Results: 25 studies were selected for final analysis. Reported hematologic responses from adult studies ranged 86-99% and major molecular responses were estimated in 38.84% of our patients within 12 months of treatment. The most frequent reported adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were edema (n=5 studies, 100%) and fatigue and nausea (n=4 studies, 80%); ADR per capita ratio was 1.46. Only one study informed ADRs in pediatrics demonstrating 93% of patients experienced ADRs after receiving imatinib. Most of the Studies (n=4, 67% from 7 studies) considered BCR/ABL point mutation as main reason of imatinib resistance. Drug-binding site and P-loop regions were two common sites for BCR/ABL point mutation.
Conclusion: Imatinib as the first line treatment for CML has been associated with proper and durable responses in Iranian adults and children CML patients. Moreover, Imatinib life-threatening adverse effects were reported uncommon. Various responses to modified regimens have been reported in resistant patients; therefore, individualized treatment based on mutation type could be recommended.
A Case of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Presenting as Pure Red Cell Aplasia
Authors: Saeed Maria , Sharif Fatima , Ijaz Maira , Kamran Shawana
Published: April 2021

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is an uncommon condition, which is rarely associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Prompt identification and management of the underlying SLE results in correction of anemia. We report the case of a young female who presented due to severe anemia since the last two years. The cause of her anemia on initial investigations was not elicited in these two years, during which response to hematinics was poor and she remained transfusion dependent. Bone marrow biopsy showed PRCA after which autoimmune workup revealed SLE. Subsequently, treatment of SLE with steroids led to normalization of hemoglobin levels within a follow-up period of three months.
In Silico Recognition of Natural Products for Medical Care
Authors: Mirzaei Mahmoud
Published: April 2021

The article's abstract is not available.
SOGI-PLL Aprimorado por Algoritmo de Fourier de um Ciclo
Authors: Lino Fernando , De Andrade Bruna Neves , Jacomini Rogério Vani , Filho Alfeu Joãozinho Sguarezi , Costa Fabiano Fragoso
Published: April 2021

Este artigo propõe um procedimento de filtragem linear para aprimorar o desempenho de um algoritmo de PLL (Phase-Locked-Loop), baseado na estrutura de um integrador generalizado de segunda ordem (SOGI), utilizando um filtro de Fourier de um ciclo (OCF) para filtrar as tensões ab estacionárias geradas diretamente pela estrutura do SOGI. Além disso, faz-se uma comparação entre o SOGI convencional e também com um filtro de média móvel (MAF), sendo que este filtro é aplicado nas tensões dq síncronas produzidas pela transformação alfa/beta para dq na saída da estrutura SOGI. As comparações são realizadas em bancada experimental com emprego de sinais afetados por diferentes distorções harmônicas e com tensões de afundamento semelhantes às obtidas em redes de energia sob condições de falhas. Os resultados das comparações mostram que as duas abordagens, OCF e MAF, melhoram a dinâmica do SOGIPLL convencional para rastrear mudanças abruptas de frequência. Embora a proposta com emprego do OCF apresente um desempenho superior em algumas situações, é também mostrado que as oscilações apresentadas na estimativa de frequência pelo SOGI-PLL para sinais harmonicamente distorcidos são extinguidas.
Canada's National Questions, Free Trade and the Left
Authors: Kellogg Paul
Published: April 2021

It is now more than 30 years since the launch of the bilateral:anada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA), predecessor to the multilateral North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the (now abandoned) Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA). For a generation, these "free trade" initiatives provided an important part of the framework in which political movements developed in Canada, engendering debates and controversies which continue to this day. When a new moment of trade politics emerged with Donald Trump's challenge to NAFTA, some veterans from those earlier anti-free trade battles were unable to see the new, white nationalist terrain upon which Trump was operating. This article - organized principally around the author's own engagement with the anti-free trade movements of the 1980s - suggests that this inability to see clearly the new context of anti-free trade politics was rooted in the incomplete and contradictory left-nationalist theory which underpinned most anti-free trade politics of that earlier era. The article suggests that while there are national questions in Canada - in particular those associated with Indigenous peoples and with Quebec - the attempt to articulate a parallel "national question" in Canada as a whole has proven to be impossible.
subsidio a la demanda educativa en la asistencia a la Educación Media en Uruguay
Authors: Menese Camargo Pablo
Published: April 2021

En Uruguay las tasas de egreso de Educación Media son cercanas al 40%, de las más bajas de toda América Latina. Una de las estrategias de combate a la desigualdad educativa fue, en el año 2008, la ampliación, el refuerzo y la focalización de las Asignaciones Familiares, uno de los programas de transferencia monetaria condicionada más antiguos y de mayor alcance. De este modo, a través del incremento de una partida monetaria mensual se subsidia el gasto educativo privado, y los individuos provenientes de los hogares de menores ingresos pueden afrontar los costos de continuar escolarizados, invirtiendo en capital humano y rompiendo el ciclo de la vulnerabilidad económica. El objetivo de este trabajo es observar el efecto de un programa de subsidio al gasto educativo privado en la asistencia a la Educación Media. Para ello se utiliza una serie armonizada de la Encuesta Continua de Hogares desde el año 2001 al 2017 en la cual, a través de una combinación de cuasi experimentos tales como Propensity Score Matching y Difference in Differences se evalúa el impacto de las Asignaciones Familiares y de la ampliación de régimen desde el año 2008, en la asistencia a la Educación Media Básica y Educación Media Superior. Entre los principales resultados se destaca el efecto significativo y positivo de las Asignaciones Familiares en la asistencia a la Educación Media Básica, con un incremento de la magnitud luego de la reforma de 2008. En cambio, en Educación Media Superior las Asignaciones Familiares tuvieron un efecto nulo previo a 2008, y negativo posteriormente.
COVID-19 Pnömonisi - Brusella spp. Koenfeksiyonu : Olgu Sunumu
Authors: DİNDAR DEMİRAY Emine Kübra , KARAKOÇ Hanife Nur , AKŞİT Hacer , EREN Erdinç , PAŞA Özgür , ŞAHİN Gökhan , DURAN Ömer , GÜLPINAR Fadime , YILDIRIM Saadet , YILDIZ Edip , BEKTAŞ Eren
Published: April 2021

COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) insanlarda orta-şiddetli akut solunum yolu sendromu oluşturan bulaşıcı bir hastalıktır. İlk olarak Çin'in Hubei eyaletinin Wuhan şehrinde keşfedilmiş olan hastalık, dünya çapında yayılarak COVID -19 pandemisine yol açmıştır. COVID-19 tanılı hastaların klinik takibi sırasında hastalıkla beraber diğer enfeksiyon etkenlerine de rastlanmaktadır. Brusellozis çok çeşitli organ tutulumu yapma özelliği nedeniyle farklı klinik tablolarla prezente olabilir. Ender olarak özellikle endemik bölgelerde sepsis sebebi ile izlenen hastalarda altta yatan bir hastalık olarak karşımıza da çıkabilmektedir. Hastalık birçok hastalığı taklit edebildiği için ve klinisyenin gözünden kaçabileceği için tanının gecikmesine neden olabilir. Bu vaka sunumunda; altta yatan kronik obstruktif akciğer hastalığı olan, COVID-19 pandemi sürecinde PCR testi pozitif olarak sonuçlanan hastada saptanan Brusella koenfeksiyonunu vurgulamayı amaçladık.