bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute administration of Baclofen after spinal cord injury improves locomotor behavior, bladder control and modulates the inflammatory response.
Authors: Sousa Nídia de , Pinho Andreia , Monteiro Susana , Liberato Valentina , Santos Diogo , Campos Jonas , Cibrão Jorge , Silva Nuno , Barreiro-Iglesias Antón , Salgado António
Published: October 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to severe motor and sensory functional
impairments that affect personal and social behaviors. With no effective
treatment, deficits in motor function are the most visible consequence
of SCI. However, other complications produce a significant impact on SCI
patient’s welfare. Spasticity is a neurological impairment that affects
the control of muscle tone as a consequence of an insult in the central
nervous system (e.g., SCI). Baclofen, a GABA agonist, is the most
effective drug for spasticity treatment. This drug activates GABAB
receptors decreasing the neurotransmitters release and neuronal
hyperpolarization, which results in spasticity relief. Interestingly,
emerging data reveals that Baclofen can also play a role on
neuroprotection and regeneration after SCI. Our goal is to highlight the
role of Baclofen as a potential treatment to promote recovery from SCI.
We used a compression SCI mouse model with the administration of
Baclofen at different time-points after injury. Our data showed that
Baclofen is more effective when a single dose is administered acutely,
leading to locomotor improvements in mice. Moreover, Baclofen
administration also led to improved bladder function control in all
experimental groups. Interestingly, acute Baclofen administration
modulates microglia activation state and levels of circulating
cytokines, suggesting a role of Baclofen in the modulation of the immune
response. Although deeper studies must be performed to understand the
cellular/molecular mechanisms that underlie the functional improvements
produced by Baclofen, our data shed light into the pharmacological
potential of Baclofen to promote recovery in a SCI context.
MicroRNA expression profile predicts prognosis of pediatric adrenocortical tumors
Authors: Veronez Luciana , Fedatto Paola , Corrêa Carolina , Lira Régia , Baroni Mirella , Silva Keteryne , Santos Paula , Antonio David , Queiroz Rosane , Antonini Sonir , Jr Silvio Tucci , Neder Luciano , Yunes Jose , Brandalise Silvia , Panepucci Rodrigo , Tone Luiz Gonzaga , Scrideli Carlos
Published: October 2021

Pediatric adrenocortical tumors (ACT) are rare aggressive neoplasms with
heterogeneous prognosis. Despite extensive efforts, identifying reliable
prognostic factors for pediatric patients with ACT remains a challenge.
MicroRNA (miRNA) signatures have been associated with cancer diagnosis,
treatment response, and prognosis of several types of cancer. However,
the role of miRNAs has been poorly explored in pediatric ACT. In this
study, we performed miRNA microarray profiling on a cohort of 37
pediatric ACT and nine non-neoplastic adrenal (NNA) samples and
evaluated the prognostic significance of abnormally expressed miRNAs
using Kaplan-Meier plots, log-rank test and Cox regression analysis. We
identified a total of 98 abnormally expressed miRNAs, which expression
profile discriminated ACT from NNAs. Among the 98 deregulated miRNAs, 17
presented significant associations with patients’ survival. In addition,
higher expression levels of hsa-miR-630, -139-3p, -125a-3p, -574-5p,
-596, -564, -1321, and -423-5p and lower expression levels of
hsa-miR-377-3p, -126-3p, -410, -136-3p, -29b-3p, -29a-3p, -337-5p,
-143-3p, and 140-5p were significantly associated with poor prognosis,
tumor relapse, and/or death. Importantly, the expression profile of
these 17 miRNAs stratified patients into two groups of ACTs with
different clinical outcomes. Although some individual miRNAs exhibit
potential prognostic values in ACTs, only the 17 miRNA-based expression
clustering was considered an independent prognostic factor for five-year
event-free survival (EFS) compared to other clinicopathological
features. In conclusion, our study reports for the first time
associations between miRNA profiles and childhood ACT prognosis,
providing evidence that miRNAs could be useful biomarkers to
discriminate patients with favorable and unfavorable clinical outcomes.
Organizaciones en el desarrollo de una comunidad: el caso de Sitalá, Chiapas
Authors: Campos Saldaña Rady Alejandra , Céspedes Ochoa Elizabeth , López Aguilar Ruth , Rodríguez Larramendi Luis Alfredo , Cruz Macías Wel Olvein
Published: October 2021

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue describir el vínculo que se estableció entre la Alianza Crecer Juntos Sitalá (ACJS) y las personas indígenas del municipio de Sitalá, Chiapas. Se utilizó una metodología participativa que contempló a los habitantes de seis comunidades de Sitalá y a los representantes de las organizaciones sociales que forman parte de esta red. Los instrumentos para la recolección de la información fueron una entrevista y talleres participativos. Dentro de los principales resultados, se encontró que la ACJS es una red de organizaciones que desarrolla acciones conjuntas a través de las cuales logra la participación de la población indígena, así como genera confianza para adoptar nuevas prácticas junto con las ya establecidas en la cultura indígena. Se encontró, además, que la ACJS en Sitalá ha ayudado a mejorar la calidad de vida de la población tanto en lo económico, al generar nuevos ingresos, como en el aspecto social, al propiciar redes de colaboración. Las organizaciones sociales en este contexto son consideradas elementos clave para el desarrollo local de las comunidades rurales en el municipio de Sitalá, ya que aportan beneficios para sus pobladores y proyectos que detonan las capacidades de las personas.
Morphometry of the hyoid bone: a radiological anatomy study
Authors:   DURSUN  AYAZOĞLU   AYYILDIZ  Yadigar KASTAMONİ  ÖZTÜRK  Soner ALBAY, Dursun Ahmet , Ayazoğlu Mehtap , Ayyıldız Veysel Atilla , Kastamoni Yadigar , Öztürk Kenan , Albay Soner
Published: October 2021

Objectives: The hyoid bone occupies a strategic position and participates in vital functions. The aim of this study was to examine the morphometry of the hyoid bone and define its location according to the vertebral level on 3D computed tomography (CT) images. Methods: This study was conducted using 3D–CT images of 216 patients (104 males, 112 females) aged between 10–98 years. The vertebral level of the hyoid bone was determined for each decade. Furthermore, the anterior-posterior length of the hyoid bone, the length and height of the greater horn, the height and width of the body, the distance between the posterior ends of the greater horn, and the distance of the hyoid bone to the vertebral column and the angle between right and left greater horn was measured. Results: The hyoid bone was most commonly located at C3 and C2–C3 vertebral level in females (35.7%) and C3 in males (38.5%). No statistically significant difference was found between right and left sides concerning the length and height of the greater horn. Conclusion: Knowing the radiological anatomy, morphometric properties and vertebral levels of the hyoid bone will contribute to the surgical planning of this region and the hyoid bone. In addition, our study will provide data on the morphometric properties of hyoid bone in forensic and anthropological research.
The contribution of plastinates to teaching complex anatomy of the heart
Authors: Aytaç Güneş , Öğüt Eren , Şekerci Rahime , Gürçay Sezgi , Oğuz Nurettin , Sindel Muzaffer
Published: October 2021

Objectives: The use of plastination can minimize health risks and cost in anatomy laboratories. Plastinates are easy to handle and can facilitate the learning of complex anatomical structures. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the contribution of plastinates to teaching complex anatomy of the heart. Methods: Standard S10 technique was used for heart plastination by fixation, dehydration, impregnation and curing stages. Ninety volunteer first-year medicine students at Akdeniz University, who did not take cardiovascular system anatomy lectures yet, were included. Formalin-fixed heart specimens were used in the lecture of group 1; both formalin-fixed heart specimens and heart plastinates were used in the lecture of group 2. After the lecture, a 10-question exam was administered. Statistical significance between the scores of the two groups was tested with one sample t-test, and post hoc Tukey test was used for multiple comparisons. Results: The pre-test scores of the groups were compared with the scores obtained after the 2 hours of lecture (p=0.002, p<0.05). The test scores of both groups increased significantly after the lecture (p<0.05). The post-test scores of group 2 were significantly higher than group 1 (p= 0.047, p<0.05). The average test scores of those trained with formalin-fixed specimens increased from 23.78±1.94 to 48.22±3.19 (p<0.05). Students gave positive feedback about heart plastinates, and they stated that their rising interest in the anatomy lecture due to the odourless, disinfected and reusable materials. Conclusion: In conclusion, besides being cost-effective, healthy, long lasting and easy to maintain materials, plastinates are useful tools to teach complex anatomical structures.
Morphometric evaluation of nasolacrimal duct
Authors: Erçakmak Güneş Burcu , Vatansever Alper , Demiryürek Deniz , Gümeler Ekim
Published: October 2021

Objectives: Obstructions are very commonly seen in nasolacrimal duct before it opens into the inferior nasal meatus. Detailed anatomical knowledge of the nasolacrimal duct is crucial for physicians to understand the etiology of the obstructions, to plan ideal management option and to reduce unexpected iatrogenic injuries during surgeries. The aim of this study was to investigate morphometric properties of the nasolacrimal duct on computed tomography images. Methods: Three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) of 142 adults (65 females, 77 males) were retrospectively evaluated. Antero-posterior cranial diameter, antero-posterior and transverse diameters and vertical angle of the nasolacrimal duct, distance between distal end of the nasolacrimal duct to anterior surface of the maxilla were measured and the differences evaluated statistically between right and left sides and among females and males and among different ages. All measurements were done using Osirix-Lite version 9 software. Results: None of the morphometric parameters of the nasolacrimal duct showed significant differences between right and left sides. Antero-posterior cranium and transverse diameter of the nasolacrimal duct were longer in men than women. Conclusion: Determining to morphometric properties of the nasolacrimal canal has advantages for understanding the etiology of the NLD obstructions, deciding the ideal surgical technique and reducing to unexpected injuries during surgeries related with this region.
Figurative language and Symbolism Manifested in Bukusu Cultural Songs and Proverbs
Authors: Watulo Aggrey Wafula
Published: October 2021

The paper investigates the place of song, dance and proverbs as manifested in selected cultural practices of Bukusu community. Song, dance and proverbs are notoriously utilized with each having roots and a focus to a specific event.  The objective of the study include the role, occasion and function of such markers of culture that have been utilized during crowded festivities despite the Covid 19 pandemic.  In light of this, the proposition made is that language and culture have a close interplay and promote social ties hence maintaining societal cultural festivities like marriage, burial, circumcision just to list a few.  The trajectory created in such rich cultural festivities has been thwarted by the pandemic. Amid the pandemic, such manifestation of cultural rights are promoted either publicly or in hideout in a number of homes to ensure that culture is passed from one generation to the other.  The argument raised in view of this, is one that ensures that culture is promoted through linguistic ability, oratory skills, song, music and dance with an aim of creating a cohesive society hence building a rich cultural society. Culture is communicated through literary and linguistic tools such as proverbs, song, symbolism and propaganda. Coupled with a myriad of cultural activities among the community the paper forms a base for an analysis of selected festivities that have gained prominence amid the ravages of the pandemic. The study adopts convenience sampling technique to identify subjects. Data was collected through participant observation and focus group discussion of the cultural activities within Bungoma County. The participants were drawn from notorious villages that have continuously promoted the cultural festivities through crowds despite the escalating numbers of Covid 19 victims. The data will be analyzed descriptively.
Bibliometrics Analysis of English Teaching Method in Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Bungsudi Bungsudi , Thresia Fenny
Published: October 2021

Covid-19 requires educators to innovate using the adaptive English teaching method. Various researchers have researched English teaching methods to solve the learning process in the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore multiple studies need to be compiled into one discussion to produce information for the next researchers about future opportunities. This study conducts the Bibliometrics Analysis method to analyze the citation of research articles. The study population adopts article primer data of English teaching method in Covid-19 pandemic by searching through Google scholar with the key “English teaching method in Covid-19 pandemic” using Publish or Perish (PoP) software in December 2020. Based on the initial data search using the Publish or Perish (PoP) application, there were 989 articles. After screening the suitability of the topic, 63 articles were obtained, which became data to discuss. Data mapping results using the VOSViewer Software show the research trend is in the keyword that appears the most of sixty-three articles such as student, pandemic Covid, teacher, education, teaching, and EFL Teacher. Therefore, the next research potential uses other teaching media of the keyword summary presented by VOSViewer.
(Re)Defining Fairy Tales: A Deontology Ethical Approach to Oscar Wilde’s Selected Fairy Tales
Authors: Kiang Chyu Vey , Foong Soon Seng
Published: October 2021

Fairy tales are often used by authors to impart their moral values and principles. This is commonly done through the portrayal of their main characters, including their personalities, actions, and the consequences of their actions. In some cases, authors use death as a moral lesson due to its connotation as a form of punishment for a character’s misdeed. However, Oscar Wilde’s fairy tales contradict the conventional aspect of death in classic fairy tales. His main characters experienced death or physical disfigurement in the end despite their actions which readers would perceive as good or morally permissible. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the theme of morality in Wilde’s selected fairy tales through a Deontology Ethical approach. This study addressed the relationship between the personalities and actions of Wilde’s selected characters, as well as the consequences of their actions. Furthermore, using Kantian Ethics, the study evaluated the moral permissibility of the characters’ maxims underlying their actions. The findings showed that the personalities of Wilde’s characters could be categorised into those who adhere to or oppose Kant’s definition of personality based on their actions. The study also highlighted the varying deaths that Wilde’s characters faced in the end. Additionally, the analysis suggests that the reasons behind the actions of Wilde’s characters could be categorised into “for duty” and “for other means”. At the end of this study, readers would be introduced to a different moral theory in understanding a character without justifying it based on the simple “right versus wrong” principle.
The Impact of Divergent and Convergent Tasks on Iraqi EFL Students Reading Comprehension Success
Authors: Dehham Sabeeha Hamza , Hussein Nadia Majeed
Published: October 2021

This research attempted to explore the effects of divergent and convergent tasks on the successful reading of EFL students at the preparatory stage. To verify the analysis, the null hypothesis was established that states "There are no differences of statistical significance at the level of (0,05) among the mean of scores of the experimental group who study according to divergent and convergent task technique and the mean of the scores of the control group who study according to the regular method".  The experimental approach is used by designing two equivalent experimental groups of 32 students studying the technique proposed, and an 8-week (2019-2020) control group of 32 students, three classes each week using the Google Classroom Platform and Telegram. The present study utilized the platform Google Classroom (GC) and Telegram as an educational platform to assist students during their course learning process. The writing skills test was administered after checking with the experts. The results show that there are statistical differences at level (0,05) between the average of the experimental and control groups' reading skills and those of the experimental group. This difference is because the experimental group uses divergent and convergent tasks.
Tighina-Bender Fortress – (Re)Inventing a Museum
Authors: Musteaţă Sergiu
Published: October 2021

This article discusses the case of the transformation of the Tighina-Bender fortress in a historic museum and tourist attraction site. The fortress is one of the most important medieval fortifications in Eastern Europe and is a national monument registered in the State Register of Protected Monuments of the Republic of Moldova. Paradoxically, but the fortress has not benefited from serious historic and archaeological research so far. It must be because during the Soviet era the fortress was a military base and it was closed to the public. Its recent transformation into a museum, the launch of a rehabilitation project, and ensured access inside this fortification inspire us for the possibility of transforming this site into one of the most attractive tourist places in the Republic of Moldova. But for better interpretation and presentation is strictly necessary to understand the history of the place, its role from regional and European perspectives, the relation of historic place with the local community, etc. (Re)inventing a museum needs, in, first of all, a vision and, secondly, a strategy of museum sustainable development.
The Past as Science: Romanian Cartography at the Paris Peace Congress of 1919
Authors: Anghel Silviu
Published: October 2021

Romanian cartography at the Paris Peace Conference has so far received very little attention. Nevertheless, Romanian scholars produced tens of maps to support Romanian claims, most of them ethnographic ones. Seen as unscientific in 1919, they were quietly brushed aside. The present article argues that Romanian maps of 1919 displayed the same ideas found among Romanian elites. Ethnographic space was for them not just a matter of graphic representation of census results, but also the historical development of ancient and modern Dacia. Romanian cartography was congruous with Romanian culture in a wider sense. The article will review these ideas and then discuss their impact in Paris in 1919 and for Romanian culture since then.
A Theory-Practice Divide in a Museum Showcase
Authors: Bira Monica , Zbuchea Alexandra
Published: October 2021

We aim to map the divide between practice and research in the field of knowledge production and diffusion related to museum studies. In doing so, we draw on the domain literature regarding the evolution of museums as institutions and its implications for the development of a dedicated field of studies. The current research focuses on the publishing work undertaken by museum professionals and researchers, as an essential component contributing to the advancement of research as well as to the diffusion of good practices. More precisely, we scrutinized European journals from the domain available on the Web of Science (WoS) as well as journals not included in the “main” scientific flows and generally published in various languages, other than English.
Good Regulation Reflects Words in Action
Authors: Pečarič Mirko
Published: October 2021

Given the impossibility of binary “yes” and “no” classical general legal rules to anticipate and address the future path of law, this paper imitates the adaptive human nature and frames future legal actions on it. Given this human trait, this paper presents some predispositions for substance and actions that are based on the systemic/cybernetic approach. The latter prioritises values, goals and their weights, with controllable thresholds that, based on feedback loops between events, facts, and intentions, activate different preestablished (legal) scenarios. The paper develops new responses to changed conditions (responsiveness, adaptability, agility and robustness); the first are needed in the law due to inevitability of dynamic changes to present some adaptive regulatory techniques, which could be implemented in practical systems. The paper concludes that such techniques can be used in the law used as sunset clauses, legal experiments, emergent strategies, negative scenarios, adaptable norms, Henry VII clauses, public opinion within collective intelligence and legal experiments. They all can address changed conditions in the environment.
Regional Differences in Revenues from Local Taxes in Comparison to the Socio-Economic Level of the Regions of the Slovak Republic
Authors: Flaška Filip , Rigová Zuzana , Kološta Stanislav , Liptáková Katarína
Published: October 2021

The aim of the article is to reveal regional differences in revenues from local taxation and to compare the development of local government taxation ratios with selected socio-economic indicators within the NUTS III regions in the Slovak Republic. The paper points out the regional differences in local tax revenues in relation to total tax revenues, own current revenues, and total current expenditures with regard to the socio-economic level of the regions. We measure regional disparities through the coefficient of variation and the socio-economic level of regions through the composite index created from selected socioeconomic indicators of the respective regions. Results indicate that the social and economic performance of regions had an impact on revenues from taxation by local governments. We observe a declining trend of the monitored indicators from west to north-east of the country.
Statutory Bar on the Right to Exercise a Mortgage Under the Conditions Applicable in the Slovak Republic and Comparison with the Legal Regulation of the Czech Republic
Authors: Pacalajová Nikola , Kubinec Martin
Published: October 2021

Based on the analysis and comparison of legal regulation and existing case law, the authors present in the paper their opinion on the issue of deleting mortgage with statute-barred claim from public records (Land Registry). The Slovak legal regulation, in contrast with the Czech one, does not include an explicit provision enabling the deletion of mortgage with statute-barred claim from Land Registry. Taking into consideration the aspect of justice, the authors reached the conclusion that even without a normative platform, it is necessary to allow the mortgagor to apply to court to determine that the real estate is not mortgaged and subsequently use the court’s decision as a basis for deletion. However, since the courts decide in this case, using judicial activism, knowingly contrary to the purpose and content of the institute of statutory bar, the authors consider it essential that legislation be adopted as soon as possible to regulate this situation.
Relationship between ECG Findings and Serum Biomarkers in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Perincek Gökhan , Karakayalı Muammer , Avcı Sema
Published: October 2021

Background and aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between ECG findings and blood parameters indicative of inflammation and myocardial injury in COVID-19 patients.

Methods: The study included 159 females and 194 males. Demographics, ECG findings (axis, rhythm, branch block, ST- and T-wave changes, premature ventricular contractions, early repolarization, S1Q3T3, fragmented QRS [fQRS], rate, PR, QRS, QT interval, QTc, P-wave dispersion) and albumin, D-dimer, ferritin, pro-BNP, procalcitonin, protein, troponin T, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), C-reactive protein/albumin ratio (CAR) were recorded.

Results: In the study, 45% of the cases were female and 55% were male. The mean age of the included patients was 45.7 ± 24.4 years. The most frequent comorbidities were chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and hypertension (HT) in both groups. The incidence of fQRS on the 1st day was significantly higher in patients with negative COVID-19 test (23% for positive RT-PCR versus 35.6% for negative RT-PCR, p = 0.016). QTc values on the 3rd and 5th day were significantly higher in patients with negative RT-PCR (p = 0.045 and p = 0.042, respectively). Albumin and procalcitonin were significantly higher in patients with positive COVID-19 test results (p = 0.018 and p <0.001, respectively). Patients with fragmented QRS presented significantly lower serum albumin (40.62 ± 4.73 g/L vs. 42.92 ± 3.72 g/L, p = 0.01), and protein levels (p = 0.02), as well as lower lymphocyte count, and significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein (47.01 ± 65.01 mg/L vs. 24.55 ± 44.17 mg/L, p = 0.001), D-dimer (p = 0.009), neutrophil count, pro-BNP (p = 0.004), troponin T (p <0.001), NRL and CAR (1.28 ± 1.83 versus 0.6 ± 1.11, p <0.001).

Conclusion: Patients with COVID-19 infection presented significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein, D-dimer, neutrophil, pro-BNP, procalcitonin, troponin T, NLR, and CAR, and significantly lower levels of albumin, lymphocyte count, and serum proteins, indicating the level of inflammation and its relationship with myocardial injury. Further follow-up studies are required, on larger patient sets, for the development of risk prediction tools in COVID-19 patients.
Factors Associated with Diabetes-Related Distress in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Duka Karla , Onea Corina Roxana , Cernea Simona
Published: October 2021

Introduction: The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with diabetes-related distress (DRD) in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Material and Methods: This was an analysis of data previously obtained from two cross-sectional studies, in which medical charts review and direct interviews were employed to obtain medical and demographic data. Vital status assessment and anthropometric measurements were performed. The patients filled out specific questionnaires for DRD (DDS-17), symptoms of depression (PHQ-9), and of anxiety (GAD-7). A clinical meaningful threshold for DRD was set at ≥2.0 points. Symptoms of depression and anxiety, number of chronic complications, therapy for T2DM, anthropometric and cardio-metabolic parameters, as well as demographic, socio-economic data, and lifestyle habits were evaluated as factors possibly associated with DRD by univariate and multiple regression analyses.

Results: A total of 271 patients with T2DM were included in this analysis, of whom 25.1% presented a DDS-17 score ≥2 points (and 9.96% a DDS-17 score ≥3). Subjects with a DDS-17 score ≥2 had higher HbA1c levels (p = 0.018), PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores (p <0.0001 for both). The multiple regression model indicated that anxiety (p = 0.026), depression (p = 0.001), and ethnicity (p = 0.002) were significantly correlated with DRD (p <0.0001). With regards to subscales, the HbA1c (p = 0.005) and PHQ-9 score (p <0.0001) were significantly associated with emotional burden, ethnicity (p = 0.001) and depression (p = 0.004) with regimen-related distress, whereas ethnicity (p = 0.010) and GAD-7 score (p = 0.012) with interpersonal distress.

Conclusions: Psychosocial factors like depression, anxiety, or ethnicity significantly contribute to DRD in patients with T2DM, and worse glycemic control is associated with emotional burden.
Inflammatory Biomarkers and Endothelial Alteration in Patients with Heart Failure and Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Buicu Andreea , Licu Răzvan-Andrei , Blîndu Emil , Opincariu Diana , Hodas Roxana , Polexa Alexandra Ștefania , Benedek Theodora
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Systemic inflammation plays a key role in the pathophysiology of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), having a direct effect in promoting the progression and rupture of vulnerable coronary plaques. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between inflammatory biomarkers and the type of ACS (ST-elevation myocardial infarction – STEMI, non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction – NSTEMI, or unstable angina – UA) in patients with confirmed heart failure.

Material and Methods: This study included a total of 266 patients admitted to the Clinical Department of Cardiology of the County Emergency Clinical Hospital of Târgu Mureș – Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) for ACS of various types (UA, NSTEMI or STEMI) between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2020, in whom the diagnosis of heart failure was established based on clinical and paraclinical data. From the total number of patients, 36 were hospitalized for UA and 230 for MI, of which 165 were STEMI and 65 were NSTEMI.

Results: Only hs-CRP and IL-6 were significantly higher in MI compared to UA. Mean hs-CRP was 4.9 ± 4.5 mg/mL in patients with UA vs. 20.4 ± 42.2 mg/mL in patients with MI (p = 0.001), and mean IL-6 was 7.2 ± 13.8 pg/mL in UA vs. 31.6 ± 129.2 pg/mL in MI (p <0.0001). ICAM seems to have had a greater discriminating power between STEMI and other types of ACS in those with heart failure, having a value more than double in those with STEMI (216.1 ± 149.6 ng/mL vs. 448.2 ± 754.4 ng/mL, p <0.0001).

Conclusions: In patients with heart failure, the increase of inflammatory biomarkers such as hs-CRP is associated with the development of an acute myocardial infarction but not with its type. Adhesion molecules, especially ICAM, are elevated in patients with STEMI compared to other types of ACS, indicating a potential role of endothelial alteration in the development of an ACS when it adds to systemic inflammation linked to heart failure.
The Benefit of Benralizumab Monoclonal Antibody Treatment for Severe Eosinophilic Asthma in a Case Series (Pulmonology Clinic Târgu Mureș, Romania)
Authors: László Nimród , Sárközy Hédy Katalin , Man Cristina Alexandra , Ianoși Edith Simona , Mátyás Botond , Ciurba Bianca Emilia , Mărginean Corina , Jimborean Gabriela
Published: October 2021

Background: Monoclonal antibody therapy is currently an additional treatment option to reduce exacerbations and improve symptom control in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma (SEA) that is uncontrolled despite treatment with high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-2 agonists. Benralizumab, a monoclonal antibody that binds to the interleukin-5 receptor (IL-5), significantly reduces symptoms and annual exacerbations, as well as the use of systemic corticosteroids in patients with SEA. However, few studies are available on the effectiveness of this biological treatment in real life. The aim of this case series was to evaluate the efficacy of benralizumab by analyzing changes in clinical parameters and blood eosinophils in patients with SEA.

Methods: We analyzed four patients with SEA who started treatment with benralizumab. The history of symptoms and exacerbations, eosinophil counts, data regarding the oral corticosteroid dose, need for rescue treatment, spirometry measurements and asthma control questionnaires (ACT) regarding the level of asthma control were recorded. A positive response to treatment was defined by a significant reduction in eosinophil counts, increased ACT scores, and lower rates of exacerbations.

Results and conclusions: Benralizumab monoclonal antibody was effective in all four patients. This was shown by a reduction in exacerbation rates, symptom severity, and lower dose of oral corticosteroids and rescue medication. This novel treatment was well tolerated by the analyzed patients, thus indicating that benralizumab is an attractive choice for patients due to eosinophilic count reduction as well as the less frequent dosing schedule. However, further studies are required, on larger populations.
Surface roughness analysis of prepolymerized CAD/CAM dental acrylic resins following combined surface treatments
Authors: Alfouzan Afnan , Alnouwaisar Alhanouf , Alazzam Njood , AL-Otaibi Hanan , Labban Nawaf , Alswaidan Mashaal , AL-Taweel Sara , Alshehri Huda
Published: October 2021

Oral dentures are subjected to mechanical and chemical cleansing processes. However, these processes alter the physical and mechanical properties of denture acrylic resins. This study analyzes the surface roughness of conventional heat-cured (HC) polymethacrylate, light-cured (LC) urethane dimethacrylate, and prepolymerized computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) dental acrylic resins. The materials were subjected to combined surface treatment of mechanical brushing, thermal cycling, and immersion in chemical disinfectants (corega, chlorhexidine gluconate [CHG], and sodium hypochlorite) to simulate 1 year of clinical use. The surface roughness of the resin specimens before and after surface treatment was evaluated using a noncontact profilometer. Statistical tests based on analysis of variance revealed significant interactions between resin type and disinfectants, indicating that the effects of these two factors were interdependent. The highest and lowest surface roughness was observed in HC resins immersed in CHG and CAD/CAM resins immersed in sodium hypochlorite. Among the materials, HC resins demonstrated the overall highest mean roughness, followed by LC and CAD/CAM resins. Regarding the disinfectant use, the highest mean roughness was observed in disks immersed in CHG, followed by those immersed in corega and sodium hypochlorite. The prepolymerized CAD/CAM acrylic resin demonstrated superior surface quality following combined surface treatments. The HC and LC resins exceeded the roughness threshold and the reported roughness values for acrylic resins following surface treatments. Among the disinfectants tested, sodium hypochlorite produced overall low roughness values.
Rethinking Mass Communications in Norway
Authors: Bastiansen Henrik G.
Published: October 2021

The present article discusses the importance of the early years of mass communications in order to understand the shaping of them – the power of creating mass media for whole nations. It begins with references to scholars studying large nations and asks whether their results can be generalized to smaller countries. Therefore, it uses Norway as a case study. To what degree were Norway’s four major mass media – press, film, radio and television – formed institutionally in their early years? And if they were formed in this way, how long did the consequences of such a formation last? These questions have been neglected topics in research, so in order to answer them we also need to rethink the connections between the different media.
Ontology and the Mathematization of the Scientific Enterprise
Authors: Arenhart Décio Krause Jonas R. B. , da Costa Newton C. A.
Published: October 2021

In this basically expository paper we discuss the role oflogic and mathematics in researches concerning the ontology of scientific theories, and we consider the particular case of quantum mechanics. We argue that systems of logic in general, and classical logic in particular, may contribute substantially with the ontology of any theory that has this logic in its base. In the case of quantum mechanics, however, from the point of view of philosophical discussions conceming identity and individuality, those contributions may not be welcome for a specific interpretation, and an altemative system of logic perhaps could be used instead of a classical system. In this sense, we argue that the logic and ontology of a scientific theory may be seen as mutually inftuencing each other. On the one hand, logic contributes to shape the general features of the ontology of a theory; on the other hand, the theory also puts constraints on the possible understanding of ontology and, respectively, on possible systems of logic that may be the underlying logic ofthe theory.
Objects as Limits of Experience and the Notion of Horizon in Mathematical Theories
Authors: Livadas Stathis
Published: October 2021

The present work is an attempt to bring attention to the application of several key ideas of Husserl ‘s Krisis in the construction of certain mathematical theories that claim to be altemative nonstandard versions of the standard Zermelo-Fraenkel set theory. In general, these theories refute, at least semantically, the platonistic context of the Cantorian system and to one or the other degree are motivated by the notions of the lifeworld as the pregiven holistic field of experience and that of horizon as the boundary of human perceptions and the de facto constraint in reaching limit-idealizations. Moreover, 1 try to give convincing reasons for the existence of an ultimate constitutional ‘vacuum’ of a subjective origin that is formally refiected in the application of a notion of actual infinity in dealing generally with the mathematical infinite.
The Worldwood of the Cinematic Image
Authors: Martins José Manuel
Published: October 2021

A close analysis of the specifically cinematographic procedure in Akira Kurosawa’s ‘Dream’ Crows reveals it as an articulated and insightful philosophical statement, endowed with general relevance conceming ‘natural’ perception, phenomenological Erlebnis, mechanical image and aesthetic rapture. The antagonism between the Benjarninian lineage of a mechanical irreducibility of the cinematic image to anthropocentric categories, and the Cartesian tradition of a film-philosophy still relying on the equally irreducible structure of the intentional act, be it the one of a deeply embodied and enworlded counsciousness, in accounting for the essential structure of film and spectator (and their relation), i.e., the antagonism between the decentering primacy of the image and the self-centered primacy of perception, cannot be settled through a simple Phenomenological shift from occularcentric, intentional counsciousness to its embodyment ‘ in-the-world’ as yet another carrier of intentionality.

Still it remains to be explained what is it in the mechanical image that is able to so deeply affect the human flesh, and conversely, to what features in the human bodily experience is its mechanical other, the fascinating image, so successfuly adressing? It should be expected from the anti-Cartesianism of both the early and the late Merleau- Ponty the textual support for an approach to the essential condition of passivity in movie watching, that would be convergent with Benjamin. The Chapter ‘Le sentir’, in Phénoménologie de la perception, will offer us the proper guide to elucidate what we are already perceiving and conceiving in Kurosawa’s film, where the ex-static phenomenological body of the aesthetical contemplator ‘ enters the frame’ like the Benjaminian surgeon enters the body and like the painter - and always already like our deepest levei of ‘sensing’, previously to any act of cousciousness - ‘just looses himself in the scene before him’. The Polichinello secret of cinema watching is nonetheless too evident to be seen, and that is where Phenomenological description and reduction are still required.
Heat effects in the reaction of sulfuric acid with ilmenites influenced by initial temperature and acid concentration
Authors: Jabłoński Maciej , Lubkowski Krzysztof , Tylutka Sandra , Ściążko Andrzej
Published: October 2021

The influence of temperature and sulfuric acid concentration on the enthalpy and the rate of heat release during the reaction of Norwegian and Australian ilmenites with sulfuric acid was determined. The experimental results obtained from calorimetric measurements were compared with theoretical calculations based on the oxide composition and the phase composition of the raw material. Experimentally determined heat of reaction for Norwegian ilmenite (900–940 kJ/kg) and Australian ilmenite (800–840 kJ/kg) showed good agreement with theoretical calculations based on the phase composition of the raw material. It was found that the enthalpy of ilmenites decomposition reaction does not depend on the concentration of sulfuric acid in the concentration range from 83% to 93%. It was also demonstrated that the temperature and concentration of sulfuric acid have a significant impact on the thermokinetics of the decomposition process, increasing the value of the average rate of temperature change.
Thermodynamic analysis on disproportionation process of cyclohexylamine to dicyclohexylamine
Authors: Valeš Roman , Dvořák Bohumír , Krupka Jiří
Published: October 2021

This work deals with a study of the effect of temperature on the cyclohexylamine disproportionation to dicyclohexylamine, conjointly with the thermodynamic analysis of this process. The laboratory experiments were carried out in a glass tubular continuous-flow reactor in a gaseous phase at the reaction temperature 433–463 K over a nickel catalyst. The results show, that the temperature has a trifling effect on equilibrium conversion of cyclohexylamine. However, temperature affects the formation of hydrocarbons, benzene and cyclohexane, and dehydrogenation products of dicyclohexylamine, i.e. N-cyclohexylidenecyclohexanamine and N-phenylcyclohexylamine. The latter one is the dominant product of dicyclohexylamine dehydrogenation. The disproportionation of cyclohexylamine has slightly exothermic character. At the experimental reaction temperature range, the cyclohexylamine disproportionation is spontaneous reaction and other reactions of this process are non-spontaneous.
Quality of Lake Ecosystems and its Role in the Spread of Invasive Species
Authors: Purmalis Oskars , Grīnberga Laura , Kļaviņš Linards , Kļaviņš Māris
Published: October 2021

Lake ecosystems are important elements of hydrological regime, the quality of these ecosystems is affected by anthropogenic actions, and therefore, a variety of organisms, living in these habitats depend on the applied management solutions. Due to human activities freshwater ecosystems suffer from loss of biodiversity and increased eutrophication. Therefore, important aspects related to lake management include knowledge about the water quality, ecosystem response to climate change as well as increased risks of appearance and spreading of invasive species. Water quality, content of oxygen, nutrients, phytoplankton and distribution of macrophytes, including invasive species were analysed in Balvu and Pērkonu lakes. Presence of invasive species Canadian waterweed (Elodea canadensis) was detected, however, common reed (Phragmites australis) can be considered as expansive species. The analysis of current situation and existing management measures indicates persistent spreading of those species. Significant changes of lake water quality and climate may increase possible spreading of other, more aggressive, invasive species, for example – Nuttall’s waterweed (Elodea nuttallii).
Implementation of Phenomenon-based Learning E-Module to Improve Critical Thinking Skills in Thermochemistry Material
Authors: Pratiwi* Bella , Copriady Jimmi , Anwar Lenny
Published: October 2021

The covid-19 pandemic in Indonesia has affected various sectors, one of them is in the education sector. Thus, it interferes with the learning processes conventionally. A solution is needed to respond to the problem in the 21st century. Online learning is one of the alternative ways in utilizing the use of IT-based teaching materials. This study aims to improve the students’ critical thinking skills by using an e-module. The research was the quantitative descriptive method. This study was a quasi-experimental by using a nonequivalent control group design. The samples of the study consisted of 2 classes, namely XI MIPA 1 and XI MIPA 2. The analysis results using independent sample t-test showed a significance value of 0,000 0,05. The data analysis results of critical thinking skills used N-gain score test; the experimental class obtained a score of 0,72, in which it belonged to the high category. Meanwhile, the average N-gain score for the control class was 0,34, in which it belonged to the medium category. It can be concluded that there is a significant difference in the students’ critical thinking skills between the experimental class and the control class. Therefore, the implementation of a phenomenon-based learning e-module can be an alternative to improve the students’ critical thinking skills.
Analisis Miskonsepsi Mahasiswa Pada Konsep Genetika Menggunakan Instrumen Four Tier Diagnostic Test
Authors: Wulandari Sri , Gusmalini* Amelia , Zulfarina Zulfarina
Published: October 2021

Genetic has a broad and complicated topic and abstract material considered difficult by students. The inability to connect and construct between genetic concepts properly causes misconceptions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze students' misconceptions on the concept of genetics using a four-tier diagnostic test. 91 students from the Faculty of Education, Department of Biology, University of Riau were used as samples. The method was descriptive quantitative with a survey research model. The four-tier diagnostic test instrument consists of four levels: the first stage uses multiple-choice questions with four distractors questions and one key answer; the second level is the level of student confidence to choose the answers; the third level is the students' reasons for answering the questions; the fourth level is the level of student confidence to choose reasons. The number of questions tested was 20 questions with six sub-concepts. Confidence Discrimination Quotient (CDQ) and four-tier diagnostic test were used to analyze data on misconceptions and interpretation of student answer patterns. Students experienced misconceptions on 19 answer questions, 13 reason questions, and 16 answer and reason questions. The results of the four-tier diagnostic test described that the category of misconceptions was 65.21%, not understanding the concept was 24.53% and understanding the concept was 10.34%. From the six sub-concepts tested, the highest score of misconception was found in genetic material (75.1%) and the lowest was found in the scope of genetics (44.4%). On average, the students had medium and high categories of misconception
Analisis Pemahaman Konsep, Multirepresentasi, dan Kosistensi Jawaban Siswa SMA pada Konsep Hukum III Newton
Authors: Amaliah* Nur Utami , Purwaningsih Endang
Published: October 2021

Newton's third law is a fundamental concept of Physics that is still not reached by students. The tendency of students who do not understand the concept well can be observed by measuring the ability of multi-representation and solutions when solving Physics problems. Therefore, this study aims to determine the concept of Newton's third law understood by students, the multi-representation students have, and the consistency of students' answers in answering physics questions. The participants numbered 28 students from the second semester of high school, selected using the purposive sampling technique, who had just completed discussions about Newton's Law and were willing to participate in this study. Participants were given 6 two-tier question items that managed the R-FCI questions. The results of the answers were analyzed quantitatively to determine the initial percentage description and then analyzed qualitatively to determine understanding, multi-representation ability, and consistency in depth. Most of the participants had low conceptual understanding and answered the questions consistent-wrong. However, based on the analysis of the answer choices and the reasons given, most students understand the meaning of the representation of the answers given