bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transhumanistic Aspects of the Artificial Life Mythologeme in the Ancient World
Authors: Gotz L. S.
Published: May 2021

The aim of the paper is to study mythological transhumanism in the context of the problem of artificial life in the ancient world.
The relevance of this study is determined by the significant growth of the role of the posthumanism research in the context of the rapid development of modern high technologies. The study of the features of the mythological transhumanism representation in the ancient world reveals the archetypic patterns of ideas about the essence of human and the limits of humanity — both in traditional and in modern culture, and it provides an insight of the prospects of human existence. Still, there are few studies that reveal the presence or absence of ancient transhumanistic intentions in culture and analyze the ideals associated therewith.
Novelty. This is the first attempt of analyzing the issue of mythological transhumanism in the culture of the ancient world.
Research methodology. The author used comparative mythology, historical­genetic, structural analysis, semiotic, hermeneutic and axiological analyses within the framework of cultural studies.
Results. The phenomenon of mythological transhumanism and the problem of artificial life in the ancient world were studied. In contrast to the common scientific ideas implying that transhumanistic intentions of humanity and reflections on the creation of artificial life are a late cultural phenomenon, the research allows us to claim that mythological transhumanism is already represented in the archaic and ancient world culture. This suggests that transhumanistic thinking is universal in culture. It was found out that the archaic consciousness does not see fundamental difference between the subjects, which create artificial life. In archaic myths, it can be either a person or a demiurge — an ancestor or a deity. The binary opposition “man — god” and “alive — dead” is blurred in archaic thinking. Along with the clarification of hierarchical power structures in the worldview, the mythologeme of the divine creation of artificial life begins to dominate. In the mythology of the ancient world, the anthropogony of the demiurge is often regarded as unsuccessful: the demiurge is like a person and his actions are imperfect. The archetypic image of the “unfinished man”, widespread in ancient myths, represents the ideas of modern posthumanists that human evolution should continue through the enhancement of “human nature” with high technologies.
The practical significance. The information of this article may be useful for the scholars, researchers of culture and for teaching various educational courses.
Sonatas № 2 end № 9 as Milestones in the Evolution of the Piano Style of A. Scriabin
Authors: Lebedeva N. S.
Published: May 2021

The article is devoted to the consideration of two piano sonatas by A. Scriabin, representing in a complex the peculiarities of his piano style as an integral phenomenon. The two-part sonata No. 2, classified as a musical landscape, is considered in comparison with the performing versions proposed by S. Richter and V. Ashkenazy. The one-part Sonata No. 9, called “Black Mass”, is considered in comparison with the performing interpretations of V. Sofronitsky and V. Horowitz.

It is noted that the Scriabin’s piano style is inherently mixed, compositional and performing, and its grandiose macrocycle of 10 sonatas appears as a compendium of the principles of piano thinking for the post-romantic era. The universalism of Scriabin’s writing is confirmed using the comparative method of analysis, for the first time proposed in this article in relation to the works under consideration.

It was revealed that the style in music appears as “a system of stable features of musical phenomena, a way of their differentiation and integration at various levels” (S. Tyshko). The style is distinguished by a tendency to identify the individual, unique, “humanistic” in the broad sense of the word and has a hierarchical structure, within which there is a level characterized as “the style of any kind of music” (V. Kholopova), among which the piano style stands out.

Scriabin’s piano sonatas combine the categories of “instrument style”, “author’s style” and “performer’s style” at the style level.

It was revealed that the figurative and artistic duality of the Second sonata is reflected in the interpretations presented by S. Richter (the “classical” version, focused on the exact observance of the author’s text remarques, sounding in some places even like in Beethoven’s works), and V. Ashkenazy (the “romantic” version containing a whole complex of articulatory means added by the performer, most of all close to Chopin’s “sonic placers”).

The main factor that determines the peculiarities of the performance of the Ninth sonata is the transfer of the playing of harmonic timbre-colors, in which the melodic horizontal turns out to be inert in itself and manifests itself only in harmonic lighting in combination with articulatory attributes. It is noted that A. Scriabin creates in the Ninth sonata actually a special type of texture, accentuating the parameter of depth, based on the stereophonic effect “further — closer”.

In the conclusions on the article, it is noted that the stylistic “arch” of two Scriabin’s sonatas highlighted in it helps to comprehend the holistic character and contextual connections of the sonata-piano style of the great Russian composer-innovator, to find “keys” to actual interpretations of his other piano sonatas, an example of which is analyzed interpretation samples of such masters as V. Sofronitsky and V. Horowitz (Ninth sonata) and S. Richter and V. Ashkenazy (Second sonata).
Desired formality
Authors: Ugarte Sofía
Published: May 2021

Formal work is essential to gain legal residence in Chile and the reason why Latin American and Caribbean migrants purchase fake contracts on the black market. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork with migrant Haitian women applying for work visas in Santiago, this article explores the effects of desired formality and its promises of a good life on contemporary statehood in Chile. The analysis shows how Haitian women’s efforts to become formal workers transform their experiences as racialized and gendered migrants in Chile, and impact how state institutions manage and control migration. Desired formality reveals the paradoxical character of state policies that help create a racialized and precarious labor force within its legal frameworks and explain why migrants attach themselves to fragile good-life projects in new countries.
“Russia My History”
Authors: Konkka Olga
Published: May 2021

This article analyzes the presentation of the Second World War in the multimedia “history parks” of the Russian educational project “Russia My History.” In these exhibition complexes, modern digital technologies offer visitors a “revolutionary” way to discover Russian history. The article first explores the history and conception of the Russia My History project, as a pedagogical tool, a digital museum, a historical narrative, and a response to current memory policies. Next, I focus on the exhibition dedicated to the Second World War (specifically, on its technical, visual, structural, lexical, and historical aspects) and assess the impact of the digitalization and commodification of history on the traditionally rigid official Russian memory of the war. I attempt to show that instead of exploiting digital technologies to develop new approaches to the history of the war, the exhibition neglects the potential of multimedia and provides a narrative close to the one used in Soviet and post-Soviet textbooks.
Pakistani ESL Learners on the Internet: Explorations into Factors Influencing their Online Language Learning Behaviour
Authors: Amjad Muhammad , Hussain Riaz , Siddiq Sadaf
Published: May 2021

The present research explores Pakistani ESL learners' voluntary language learning behaviour. It excludes references to ubiquitous and almost rampant online teaching-learning behaviour caused by the recent global pandemic—COVID-19. A questionnaire containing closed-ended questions was used to collect the data. Cronbach's Alpha test was used to check the reliability of the questionnaire, whereas the validity of the questionnaire was examined by using the Item-Total Correlation Test and Inter-Item Correlation Test. A regression test was conducted to test the current research work hypotheses. Regression results suggest that the following factors urge the learners to benefit from the Internet to learn English. The data analysis and results reveal important information related to learner-psychology. (a) The attitude of Pakistani learners towards Internet-based language learning is positive. (b) The Internet's perceived usefulness urges Pakistani learners to learn English. (c) Learners can afford digital gadgets and money to buy Internet data
Disparities in outcomes after spine surgery: a Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative study
Authors: Macki Mohamed , Hamilton Travis , Lim Seokchun , Telemi Edvin , Bazydlo Michael , Nerenz David R. , Zakaria Hesham Mostafa , Schultz Lonni , Khalil Jad G. , Perez-Cruet Miguelangelo J. , Aleem Ilyas S. , Park Paul , Schwalb Jason M. , Abdulhak Muwaffak M. , Chang Victor
Published: May 2021

OBJECTIVE

Most studies on racial disparities in spine surgery lack data granularity to control for both comorbidities and self-assessment metrics. Analyses from large, multicenter surgical registries can provide an enhanced platform for understanding different factors that influence outcome. In this study, the authors aimed to determine the effects of race on outcomes after lumbar surgery, using patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in 3 areas: the North American Spine Society patient satisfaction index, the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) on the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) for low-back pain, and return to work.

METHODS

The Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative was queried for all elective lumbar operations. Patient race/ethnicity was categorized as Caucasian, African American, and “other.” Measures of association between race and PROs were calculated with generalized estimating equations (GEEs) to report adjusted risk ratios.

RESULTS

The African American cohort consisted of a greater proportion of women with the highest comorbidity burden. Among the 7980 and 4222 patients followed up at 1 and 2 years postoperatively, respectively, African American patients experienced the lowest rates of satisfaction, MCID on ODI, and return to work. Following a GEE, African American race decreased the probability of satisfaction at both 1 and 2 years postoperatively. Race did not affect return to work or achieving MCID on the ODI. The variable of greatest association with all 3 PROs at both follow-up times was postoperative depression.

CONCLUSIONS

While a complex myriad of socioeconomic factors interplay between race and surgical success, the authors identified modifiable risk factors, specifically depression, that may improve PROs among African American patients after elective lumbar spine surgery.
Clinical photographs in the assessment of adult spinal deformity: a comparison to radiographic parameters
Authors: Ryan Devon J. , Stekas Nicholas D. , Ayres Ethan W. , Moawad Mohamed A. , Balouch Eaman , Vasquez-Montes Dennis , Fischer Charla R. , Buckland Aaron J. , Errico Thomas J. , Protopsaltis Themistocles S.
Published: May 2021

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to reliably predict sagittal and coronal spinal alignment with clinical photographs by using markers placed at easily localized anatomical landmarks.

METHODS

A consecutive series of patients with adult spinal deformity were enrolled from a single center. Full-length standing radiographs were obtained at the baseline visit. Clinical photographs were taken with reflective markers placed overlying C2, S1, the greater trochanter, and each posterior-superior iliac spine. Sagittal radiographic parameters were C2 pelvic angle (CPA), T1 pelvic angle (TPA), and pelvic tilt. Coronal radiographic parameters were pelvic obliquity and T1 coronal tilt. Linear regressions were performed to evaluate the relationship between radiographic parameters and their photographic “equivalents.” The data were reanalyzed after stratifying the cohort into low–body mass index (BMI) (< 30) and high-BMI (≥ 30) groups. Interobserver and intraobserver reliability was assessed for clinical measures via intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

RESULTS

A total of 38 patients were enrolled (mean age 61 years, mean BMI 27.4 kg/m2, 63% female). All regression models were significant, but sagittal parameters were more closely correlated to photographic parameters than coronal measurements. TPA and CPA had the strongest associations with their photographic equivalents (both r2 = 0.59, p < 0.001). Radiographic and clinical parameters tended to be more strongly correlated in the low-BMI group. Clinical measures of TPA and CPA had high intraobserver reliability (all ICC > 0.99, p < 0.001) and interobserver reliability (both ICC > 0.99, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The photographic measures of spinal deformity developed in this study were highly correlated with their radiographic counterparts and had high inter- and intraobserver reliability. Clinical photography can not only reduce radiation exposure in patients with adult spinal deformity, but also be used to assess deformity when full-spine radiographs are unavailable.
Relationship of brainstem infarction to rupture of nonsaccular vertebrobasilar aneurysms
Authors: Rinaldo Lorenzo , Nasr Deena M. , Flemming Kelly D. , Lanzino Giuseppe , Brinjikji Waleed
Published: May 2021

OBJECTIVE

Symptomatic nonsaccular vertebrobasilar aneurysms (NSVBAs) are associated with high rates of aneurysm-related death. Anecdotal evidence suggests that brainstem infarction may be a harbinger of aneurysm rupture. The authors aimed to investigate the association between brainstem infarction and subsequent NSVBA rupture.

METHODS

The clinical records and radiographic imaging studies of patients presenting to the authors’ institution between 1996 and 2019 for evaluation and management of an NSVBA were retrospectively reviewed to determine the effect of perforating artery infarction on the natural history of NSVBAs. Kaplan-Meier curves for patients with and patients without perforator infarction were constructed, and predictors of aneurysm rupture were identified using a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

There were 98 patients with 591.3 person-years of follow-up who met the inclusion criteria for analysis. There were 20 patients who experienced perforator infarction during follow-up. Ten patients (10.2%) experienced aneurysm rupture during follow-up and 26 patients (26.5%) died due to aneurysm-related complications, with annual rates of rupture and aneurysm-related death of 1.7% and 4.4%, respectively. Five patients with a perforator infarction later experienced aneurysm rupture, with a median time between infarction and rupture of 3 months (range 0–35 months). On multivariate analysis, the presence of intraaneurysmal thrombus (risk ratio [RR] 4.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–14.44, p = 0.033) and perforator infarction (RR 6.37, 95% CI 1.07–37.95, p = 0.042) were independently associated with risk of aneurysm rupture.

CONCLUSIONS

NSVBAs continue to be extremely challenging clinical entities with a poor prognosis. These results suggest that brainstem infarction due to perforating artery occlusion may be a harbinger of near-term aneurysm rupture.
ПРИЙОМИ ВТІЛЕННЯ ПЛАСТИЧНОСТІ ЯК «УНІВЕРСАЛІЇ» ОРКЕСТРОВОГО МИСЛЕННЯ І. СТРАВІНСЬКОГО (НА ПРИКЛАДІ «КОНЦЕРТНИХ ТАНЦІВ» ТА «БАЛЕТНИХ СЦЕН»)
Authors: Savchenko Hanna Serhiivna
Published: May 2021

Мета роботи – систематизація оркестрових прийомів реалізації пластичності як однієї з універсалій оркестрового мислення І. Стра- вінського та принципу його оркестрового письма. Методологія дослі- дження. У роботі автор спирається на аналітичний, функціональний, компаративний методи дослідження. Наукова новизна полягає в тому, що вперше в українському музикознавстві оркестрове письмо І. Стра- вінського досліджується в аспекті виявлення якісних характеристик пластичності й технічних прийомів його втілення. Висновки. У статті пластичність трактується як одна з «універсалій» (С. Савенко) ор- кестрового мислення І. Стравінського (разом із багатофігурністю та комбінаторністю), а також як властивість (якісна характеристика) його оркестрового письма. Під пластичністю розуміємо такі властивості оркестрової тканини, які (за Н. Коляденко та А. Шмельковою) активізують синестетичне сприйняття із задіянням візуальних та кінестетичних праобразів: формують виразні відчуття руху (різно- спрямованого), об’єму (різновеликого і різнонаповненого), пластики ліній, різноякісної щільності (згущення-розрідження), відокремленості елементів оркестрової тканини, просторовості. На нашу думку, в ор- кестровій тканині пластичність виявляється в діалектичній єдності протилежностей: вона передбачає одночасно ясність, оформленість, опуклість, гнучкість та «перехідність» (статичність та процесуаль- ність). Як принцип оркестрового письма пластичність взаємодіє із принципами багатофігурності та комбінаторності. Аналіз партитур «Балетних сцен» і «Концертних танців» продемонстрував, що втілення пластичності відбувається завдяки комплексу взаємопов’язаних оркес- трових прийомів: гнучкості тембрових передач фігур; рухливості, рит- мо-мелодійній виразності басу; застосування різнофункціональних фігур (складної конфігурації, різноспрямованого руху, кружляння, обертання, закруглених); фрагментарним дублюванням-підсвіткам, гетерофонному розщепленню ліній фактури.
ХУДОЖНЬО-ІНСТИТУЦІОНАЛЬНІ Й ОСОБИСТІСНО-СМИСЛОВІ ЧИННИКИ ОПЕРНОЇ ВОКАЛЬНОЇ ІНТЕРПРЕТАЦІЇ
Authors: Лю Шитін
Published: May 2021

Мета роботи – розкрити взаємодію особистісних смислів виконав- ця та художніх інституціональних настанов оперного твору як засад- ничу інтерпретативну рису оперного жанру й вокально-виконавського оперного стилю; з’ясувати, чому до оперних співаків ставляться як до головних виконавців оперного твору, які мають право не лише відтво- рювати композиторський задум, а й утілювати своє «бачення», влас- не розуміння й розуміння оперного образу та ідеї людини, тобто ан- тропологічного підґрунтя оперної композиції Методологія дослідження зумовлюється поєднанням історіографічного й текстологічного підхо- дів, передбачає включення психологічного ракурсу оцінювання художніх явищ і розширення семантичного методу оперознавства. Запропоноване поняття синергії розглядається в річищі семіологічного музикознавчого підходу. Наукова новизна полягає у виокремленні суттєвих зв’язків між синтетичною природою оперного жанру, багатоскладовістю й динаміч- ністю оперної форми та системною рухливою побудовою людської сві- домості, що набуває холістичності лише на смислових творчих засадах. Доводиться, що явище художньої форми, зокрема оперної, і свідомості, зокрема особистісної, поєднані динамічною природою, призначенням для руху – множини різнорівневих і різноспрямованих рухів. Висновки дають змогу засвідчувати особливу місію оперного театру як функціонального поєднання різних способів і форм художнього діяння на основі музичного мистецтва з виявленням нових мовних можливостей музичного звучан- ня при входженні його до театральної системи персонажно-особистіс- них характеристик. Як важливий факт сучасної оперної практики ви- значається досягнення такого рівня розуміння оперного образу, смислу сценічного буття оперного персонажа, який дає змогу виявляти цілісну історичну траєкторію його мистецького існування, причому ця історія не прописується, але відтворюється в ускладненні почуттєво-мислен- нєвого змісту «долі» персонажа в ході цієї інтерпретації. Тому зростає обсяг «внутрішньої людини», який формується синтетичним художнім шляхом, але найбільше визначається музичними висловленнями, музич- ними характеристиками дійової особи.
ПСАЛМОВІ МОТЕТИ ОРЛАНДО ДІ ЛАССО: ЩОДО ПРОБЛЕМИ СПІВВІДНОШЕННЯ ТЕКСТУ Й МУЗИКИ
Authors: Makarenko Oleksii Volodymyrovych
Published: May 2021

Мета дослідження – розглянути особливості, послідовність і логіку втілення текстів псалмів у мотетах Орландо ді Лассо. Методологія дослідження. У дослідженні використовується метод семантичного аналізу музичного твору, що дає змогу від найдрібніших змістових еле- ментів прослідкувати структуру й логіку розгортання творів на псал- мові тексти. Наукова новизна. Уперше пропонується алгоритм побудови та порівняння структурно-семантичних моделей псалмових текстів і творів музичного мистецтва на їх основі. Висновки. При теоретичному аналізі мотетів на псалмові тексти виникає проблема багатошаровості структурно-семантичної моделі: 1) молитовна ситуація формує струк- турно-семантичну модель поетичного тексту; 2) поетичний текст, у свою чергу, стає вторинною ідеєю для структурно-семантичної мо- делі музичного тексту (у нашому випадку мотетів доби Відродження). Зберігаючи основні контури загальної структурно-семантичної моделі псалма, у творах Орландо ді Лассо формує якісно нові щодо поетичного тексту різновиди структурно-семантичних моделей музичних текстів мотетів, у більшості випадків слідуючи шляхом ускладнення, збагачен- ня змісту при спрощенні вербального тексту, додавання нових аспектів. Для проаналізованих мотетів Орландо ді Лассо взагалі характерно не тільки якнайповніше відображення змісту псалмів, а й певне розширен- ня семантичного поля окремих семантем, упритул до формування до- даткових змістів. Це дає змогу говорити про авторське коментування біблійного тексту силами музики. Більше того, структурно-семантич- ні моделі псалмів у мотетах Орландо ді Лассо можуть бути виявлені як на рівні циклів (коли мотети являють собою низку частин відносно повного псалмового тексту), так і в деяких випадках на рівні окремих композицій (коли композитор відображує структурно-семантичну мо- дель усього псалма ніби конспективно, у рамках лише однієї частини; або зіставляє її з іншими текстами).
SOSIALISASI INOVASI TEKNOLOGI BIDANG PERTANIAN DI KAMPUNG PONDOK BALES DESA LEMAH SUBUR
Authors: Susilawati Susilawati , Dermawan Budi Arif , Haerudin Haerudin
Published: May 2021

ABSTRAKPengabdian masyarakat ini bertujuan untuk mensosialisasikan dan mengaplikasikan inovasi teknologi dalam bidang pertanian, yaitu alat deteksi kesuburan tanah. Peserta yang dilibatkan dalam kegiatan pengabdian ini yaitu perwakilan aparat desa, petani dan para pemuda Karang Taruna. Rangkaian kegiatan ini meliputi 3 tahapan yaitu: Tahap persiapan, tahap pelaksanaaan dan tahap evaluasi. Tahap persiapan meliputi perizinan dan persiapan peserta serta persiapan pemateri. Tahap pelaksanaan meliputi  pembukaan, pemaparan mengenai alat deteksi kesuburan tanah dilanjutkan dengan diskusi dan tanya jawab peserta yang hadir, kemudian mempraktekan cara menggunakan alat deteksi tersebut, serah terima benih beserta tanaman dan alat deteksi untuk dimanfaatkan dan diaplikasikan dimasyarakat. Pada tahap evaluasi, peserta mengisi kuesioner yang telah disediakan, hasil kuesioner yaitu meliputi: aspek presentasi yang disampaikan pemateri memiliki nilai 73%, aspek atensi yang disampaikan oleh pemateri bernilai 76%, aspek komprehensif bernilai 86%, dan aspek hasil dengan nilai 84%. Serta aspek kognitif bernilai 80%, aspek afektif 87% dan aspek konatif 84%. Maka rata-rata semua aspek yaitu bernilai 82%. Kata kunci: pertanian; kesuburan tanah. ABSTRACTCommunity service aims to socialize and apply technological innovations in agriculture, that is a soil fertility detection tool. Participants involved in this service activity were representatives of village officials, farmers and youth from the Youth Organization. This series of activities includes 3 stages, namely: the preparation stage, the implementation stage and the evaluation stage. The preparation stage includes licensing and preparation of participants as well as the preparation of the presenters. The implementation stage includes opening, explaining about soil fertility detection tools, followed by discussion and questions and answers from the participants who attended. Then practice how to use the detection tool, hand over the seeds and plants and the detection tool to be used and applied in the community.  For activity evaluation materials, the results obtained from the questionnaires that have been filled in by the activity participants are: the presentation aspect explained by the speaker has a value of 73%. the attention aspect is delivered by the speaker was 76%. comprehensive aspect  has a value 86%, and the results aspect with a value of 84%. And the cognitive aspect has a value of 80%. 87% affective aspects and 84% conative aspects. Then the average of all aspects is worth 82%. Keywords: agriculture; soil fertility.
The model of training foreign higher education students at V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University
Authors: Ushakova Natalia , Domnich Svitlana , Kushnir Iryna , Trostynska Oksana , Chyrva Iaroslava
Published: May 2021

The problems of developing a model of training of foreign higher education applicants at the VN Kharkiv National University. Karazin. Coordination of educational, scientific, methodological and educational work in order to ensure a high level of training of foreigners is carried out by the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Education. The scientific novelty of the research is that according to the tasks of teaching foreigners receiving higher education in Ukrainian HEIs, the scientific and methodological and cultural bases of designing the intercultural academic educational system have been determined, the process of modeling of educational and vocational training of educational migrants has been systematized, and characteristically characterized. , axiological, socio-cultural, adaptation), which form the basis of professional training of specialists of higher qualification, educational process, academic hell tion of the terms of study at a foreign university, cultural literacy. The stages of realization of tasks of vocational training of educational migrants (preparatory, university), levels of university model corresponding to modern educational levels (bachelor's, master's, training of doctors of philosophy) are determined. The functions of the educational language, which plays the role of educational discipline, the basis of professional, cultural personal development and continuous education of future specialists throughout life, are defined, the process of formation of communicative competence of different categories of educational migrants according to standardized requirements to the level of Ukrainian language by the Ukrainian language is described. The educational process at the university is characterized as an important factor in the adaptation of foreigners to the conditions of non-native educational and socio-cultural environment, describes the main forms and means of non-auditory cultural and educational work.
FOSHU-approved Fibersol®-2 product review
Authors: Martirosyan Danik , Chen Stella
Published: May 2021

Fibersol®-2 is manufactured by Matsutani Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. and is sold as a tasteless powder or liquid to be added to foods or beverages. It is approved by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare as a “Standardized FOSHU (Food for Specified Health Uses)” ingredient that contains the bioactive compound, digestion-resistant maltodextrin. Its current designated functions under FOSHU are as a dietary fiber for improving intestinal regularity and for controlling postprandial blood glucose and triglyceride levels. Furthermore, clinical trials have been done in human and animal subjects to investigate other potential health benefits. This product review focuses on English-language publications of studies that tested Fibersol-2 on human subjects. From these studies, there is evidence that Fibersol-2 plays a role in controlling fasting blood glucose levels, improving intestinal function and metabolic syndrome, and increasing satiety in human subjects. However, more studies are needed to draw definite conclusions about the amounts of Fibersol-2 that are needed to observe each health benefit and to confirm the efficacy and significance of Fibersol-2’s benefits in the larger population, particularly the benefits that aren’t designated under FOSHU.Keywords: Fibersol-2, FOSHU, glucose control, metabolic syndrome, intestinal benefit, microbiome, dietary fiber, satiety
Stem Cells: Novel Technologies, Therapies and Industrial Models
Authors: Feng Chunjing , Stoltz Jean-Francois , Han Zhongchao
Published: May 2021

Stem cells are a kind of cells with the ability of self-renewal and multi-directional differentiation potential. A variety of stem cells or progenitor cells have been shown to be efficacy in the treatment of some refractory diseases. The mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are derived from mesoderm and have the characteristics of differentiation into three germ layers and immune regulation, which means that these cells are suitable for either autologous or allogeneic treatment and are ideal cells for regenerative medicine. MSCs can be isolated from various tissue types, including the bone marrow, fat, and perinatal tissues. From the perspective of ethics, medicine and cell engineering, adult bone marrow and adipose MSCs cannot be used as a mass production source of conventional treatment. Perinatal tissue, including umbilical cord, amniotic fluid and placenta, is a rich source of MSCs with strong immunosuppressive and proangiogeneic activities. These stem cells bring new hope for disease treatment. This paper reviews the research progress of stem cells as novel technology, novel therapies and industrial model in the field of regenerative medicine.
A Comparison of 3 Bioinks for 3D Bioprinting of Articular Cartilage
Authors: Henrionnet Christel , Messaoudi Océane , Pourchet Léa , Gillet Pierre , Loeuille Damien , Marquette Christophe , Pinzano Astrid
Published: May 2021

Background: 3D printing has become a promising tool for cartilage engineering, combining 3D deposition of cells seeded in supporting biomaterials. Objective: Our goal was to evaluate the chondrogenic properties of three different bioinks, seeded with human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (bMSCs). Methods: The three different tested bioinks are seeded with 2 × 106 cells/mL bMSCs. The bioink#1 is composed of gelatin, fibrinogen, and very low viscosity alginate. The bioink#2 has the same composition, excepted for the alginate that is a low viscosity one. The bioink#3 is manufactured by CELLINK®. The cartilaginous substitutes were cultivated for 28 days in the presence of ITS vs TGF-ß1. The extracellular matrix synthesis is evaluated at D28 by histology (Hematoxylin-Eosin-Saffron & Alcian Blue) and immunostaining (type II collagen). Results: The bioink#1 better promoted type II collagen synthesis, although the three bioink were equipotent in terms of proteoglycan content. Despite its universal characteristics, the bioink#3 failed to encourage the hyaline-like matrix synthesis. Conclusion: The bioink#1 containing gelatin, fibrinogen, and very low viscosity seems to be the fittest of the three bio-inks to obtain a cartilaginous substitute presenting a remarkable matrix synthesis. This study confirms the importance of the choice of bioink for cartilage engineering.
Polycaprolactone Based Biomaterials and Sodium Hyaluronate Nanoreservoirs for Cartilage Regeneration
Authors: Smaida Rana , Favreau Henri , Naja Moustafa , Hua Guoqiang , Fioretti Florence , Benkirane-Jessel Nadia , Scipioni Dominique , Kuchler-Bopp Sabine
Published: May 2021

Obstacles persist in the treatment and prevention of articular cartilage defects. Polycaprolactone (PCL) and poly(vinyl-pyrrolidone) (PVP) biomaterials were obtained by electrospinning and electrospraying to inspect their potential application for cartilage regeneration. Sodium hyaluronate (SH) was then added into nanofibers of PCL and particles of PVP. The aim of incorporating sodium hyaluronate to this polymer is to enhance the capacity of articular cartilage to regenerate. Human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) were seeded onto these tissue engineering (TE) products. The cell viability in vitro and the ability of biomaterials to support the chondrogenic differentiation of hBM-MSCs have been assessed. We report here that hBM-MSCs on these biomaterials were not able to regenerate articular cartilage mainly due to unsuitable culture environment.
Online Sexual Victimization among Middle School Students: Prevalence and Association with Online Risk Behaviors
Authors: Longobardi C. , Fabris M.A. , Prino L.E. , Settanni M.
Published: May 2021

In Europe, 82% of minors use a social network (SN). Although SNs offer opportunities for social interaction, they also involve some risks, such as online sexual victimization (OSV). As many as 39% of teenagers are estimated to be at risk of OSV. The literature suggests that risky online behaviors, such as sexting, indiscriminate expansion of SNs, and intimate and face-to-face relationships with strangers met online, can increase the risk of OSV among adolescents. The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of OSV and related risk factors in a sample of early adolescents. A cross-sectional study was conducted based on 310 Italian adolescents (12–14 years old) who completed the Juvenile Online Victimization Questionnaire (JOV-Q). Sixty percent of the sample reported at least one form of OSV, with males more at risk than females. Age, gender, and online risk behaviors are predictors of different kinds of OSV. In the whole sample, the most frequent kind of OSV was unwanted exposure to sexual content, followed by sexual pressure, online grooming, and sexual coercion. Sexting and indiscriminate expansion of one’s network increase the likelihood of having been the target of at least 1 OSV in the past year. Early adolescents can face a higher risk of OSV than adolescents, based on known percentages. The study of the prevalence and risk factors in this age group therefore deserves specific attention in order to design programs to prevent and combat OSV.
Altered Gut Microbiota in Adults with Subjective Cognitive Decline: The SILCODE Study
Authors: Sheng Can , Lin Li , Lin Hua , Wang Xiaoni , Han Ying , Liu Shu-Lin
Published: May 2021

Background: Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is the earliest symptomatic manifestation of preclinical Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Gut microbiota may serve as a susceptibility factor for AD. Altered gut microbiota has been reported in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD dementia. However, whether gut microbial compositions changed in SCD remains largely unknown. Objective: To characterize the gut microbiota in SCD. Methods: In this study, a total of 105 participants including 38 normal controls (NC), 53 individuals with SCD, and 14 patients with cognitive impairment (CI) were recruited. Gut microbiota of all participants isolated from fecal samples were investigated using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) Illumina Miseq sequencing technique. The gut microbial compositions were compared among the three groups, and the association between altered gut microbiota and cognitive performance was analyzed. To validate the alteration of gut microbiota in SCD, we conducted amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) in selected participants and further compared the gut microbiota among subgroups. Results: The abundance of phylum Firmicutes, class Clostridia, order Clostridiales, family Ruminococcaceae, and genus Faecalibacterium showed a trend toward a progressive decline from NC to SCD and CI. Specifically, the abundance of the anti-inflammatory genus Faecalibacterium was significantly decreased in SCD compared with NC. In addition, altered bacterial taxa among the three groups were associated with cognitive performance. The findings were validated in SCD participants with positive amyloid evidence. Conclusion: The composition of gut microbiota is altered in individuals with SCD. This preliminary study will provide novel insights into the pathophysiological mechanism of AD.
Oral and Swallowing Abilities Tool (OrSAT) for Type 1 SMA Patients: Development of a New Module
Authors: Berti Beatrice , Fanelli Lavinia , de Sanctis Roberto , Onesimo Roberta , Palermo Concetta , Leone Daniela , Carnicella Sara , Norcia Giulia , Forcina Nicola , Coratti Giorgia , Giorgio Valentina , Cerchiari Antonella , Lucibello Simona , Finkel Richard , Pane Marika , Mercuri Eugenio
Published: May 2021

We describe the development of a new tool specifically designed to record oral abilities, swallowing and, more generally, feeding in young type 1 SMA patients, to be used during the first 24 months of life.

The tool is composed by a checklist and a separate section summarizing the functional abilities into levels of feeding/swallowing impairment. The checklist includes 12 questions assessing aspects thought to be clinically meaningful for a type 1 SMA population and developmentally appropriate for infants during the first months of life. Each item is graded with a score of 0 or 1, depending on the child’s ability to perform the activity. As some items are age-dependent, the number of items to be used, and therefore the maximum score, changes with increasing age. The levels of feeding/swallowing impairment include four levels that can be identified using easily identifiable clinical criteria.

In an attempt to validate the tool in an untreated population we applied it to 24 type 1 SMA patients (age range: 2.3–24.1 months, mean: 10.8) in whom the same information collected by the new tool had been previously recorded using a less-structured format.

When patients were classified in three groups according to the Dubowitz decimal classification, there was a significant difference both at baseline and at follow-up ( p < 0.001). The items assessing fatigue during the nursing sessions were the most frequently impaired even in infants who did not have any other obvious clinical sign of swallowing difficulties.
Postganglionic Sudomotor Dysfunction and Brain Glucose Hypometabolism in Patients with Multiple System Atrophy
Authors: Kim Seung Woo , Chung Seok Jong , Lee Sangwon , Oh KyeongTaek , Yoo Sun Kook , Lee Phil Hyu , Kim Seung Min , Shin Ha Young , Yun Mijin
Published: May 2021

Background: Sudomotor dysfunction is common in patients with multiple system atrophy (MSA). Postganglionic sudomotor dysfunction in MSA, which can be assessed using quantitative sudomotor axon reflex testing (QSART), results from the degeneration of preganglionic sympathetic neurons and direct loss of postganglionic fibers. Objective: We investigate whether abnormal QSART responses in patients with MSA are associated with disease severity. Methods: In this retrospective study, patients with probable MSA who underwent both 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG-PET/CT) and autonomic function tests were included. Autonomic function test results were integrated divided into three sub-scores, including sudomotor, cardiovagal, and adrenergic sub-scores. The sudomotor sub-score represented postganglionic sudomotor function. Unified Multiple System Atrophy Rating Scale (UMSARS) Part I, Part II, and sum of Part I and II scores (Part I + II) to reflect disease severity and 18F-FDG-PET/CT results were collected. Results: Of 74 patients with MSA, 62.2%demonstrated abnormal QSART results. The UMSARS Part I + II score was significantly higher in the abnormal QSART group than in the normal QSART group (p = 0.037). In the regression analysis, both UMSARS Part I (β= 1.185, p = 0.013) and Part II (β= 1.266, p = 0.021) scores were significantly associated with the sudomotor sub-score. On 18F-FDG-PET/CT, the abnormal QSART group exhibited more severely decreased metabolic activity in the cerebellum and basal ganglia in patients with MSA-P and MSA-C, respectively. The sudomotor sub-score was significantly associated with regional metabolism in these areas. Conclusion: Patients with MSA and postganglionic sudomotor dysfunction may have worse disease severity and greater neuropathological burden than those without.
Which Neuropsychological Tests? Predicting Cognitive Decline and Dementia in Parkinson’s Disease in the ICICLE-PD Cohort
Authors: Lawson Rachael A. ,   on behalf of the ICICLE-PD study group, Williams-Gray Caroline H. , Camacho Marta , Duncan Gordon W. , Khoo Tien K. , Breen David P. , Barker Roger A. , Rochester Lynn , Burn David J. , Yarnall Alison J.
Published: May 2021

Background: Cognitive impairment is common in Parkinson’s disease (PD), with 80% cumulatively developing dementia (PDD). Objective: We sought to identify tests that are sensitive to change over time above normal ageing so as to refine the neuropsychological tests predictive of PDD. Methods: Participants with newly diagnosed PD (n = 211) and age-matched controls (n = 99) completed a range of clinical and neuropsychological tests as part of the ICICLE-PD study at 18-month intervals over 72 months. Impairments on tests were determined using control means (<1-2SD) and median scores. Mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI) was classified using 1-2SD below normative values. Linear mixed effects modelling assessed cognitive decline, while Cox regression identified baseline predictors of PDD. Results: At 72 months, 46 (cumulative probability 33.9%) participants had developed PDD; these participants declined at a faster rate in tests of global cognition, verbal fluency, memory and attention (p < 0.05) compared to those who remained dementia-free. Impaired baseline global cognition, visual memory and attention using median cut-offs were the best predictors of early PDD (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.88, p < 0.001) compared to control-generated cut-offs (AUC = 0.76–0.84, p < 0.001) and PD-MCI (AUC = 0.64–0.81, p < 0.001). Impaired global cognition and semantic fluency were the most useful brief tests employable in a clinical setting (AUC = 0.79, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Verbal fluency, attention and memory were sensitive to change in early PDD and may be suitable tests to measure therapeutic response in future interventions. Impaired global cognition, attention and visual memory were the most accurate predictors for developing a PDD. Future studies could consider adopting these tests for patient clinical trial stratification.
The Parkinson’s Real-World Impact Assessment (PRISM) Study: A European Survey of the Burden of Parkinson’s Disease in Patients and their Carers
Authors: Tolosa Eduardo , Ebersbach Georg , Ferreira Joaquim J. , Rascol Olivier , Antonini Angelo , Foltynie Thomas , Gibson Rachel , Magalhaes Diogo , Rocha J. Francisco , Lees Andrew
Published: May 2021

Background: A greater understanding of the everyday experiences of people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and their carers may help improve clinical practice. Objective: The Parkinson’s Real-world Impact assesSMent (PRISM) study evaluated medication use, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and the use of healthcare resources by people with PD and their carers. Methods: PRISM is an observational cross-sectional study, in which people with PD and their carers completed an online survey using structured questionnaires, including the Parkinson’s Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (PDQ-39), Non-Motor Symptoms Questionnaire (NMSQuest) and Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Results: Data were collected from 861 people with PD (mean age, 65.0 years; mean disease duration, 7.7 years) and 256 carers from six European countries. People with PD reported a large number of different co-morbidities, non-motor symptoms (mean NMSQuest score, 12.8), and impaired HRQoL (median PDQ-39 summary score, 29.1). Forty-five percent of people with PD reported at least one impulse control behaviour. Treatment patterns varied considerably between different European countries. Levodopa was taken in the last 12 months by 85.9% of participants, and as monotherapy by 21.8%. Carers, who were mostly female (64.8%) and the partner/spouse of the person with PD (82.1%), reported mild to moderate burden (mean ZBI total score, 26.6). Conclusions: The PRISM study sheds light on the lives of people with PD and those who care for them, re-emphasising the many challenges they face in everyday life. The study also provides insights into the current treatment of PD in Europe.
Lack of CD44 overexpression and application of concurrent chemoradiotherapy with cisplatin independently indicate excellent prognosis in patients with HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Biesaga Beata , Kołodziej–Rzepa M. , Janecka–Widła A. , Słonina D. , Halaszka K. , Przewoźnik M. , Mucha-Małecka A.
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND:

HPV-16 positivity in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of oropharynx (OPSCC) is associated with better prognosis. However, in more than 40% of HPV infected patients progression of cancer disease is observed, which indicates the presence of cancer cells resistant to therapy. Some studies suggest that there may be a subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which simultaneously exhibit unlimited ability to self-renew and differentiate towards neoplastic cells. The relation between HPV16 infection and biomarkers of CSCs is unclear.

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of the study was to compare the expression of CD44, CD98, ALDH1/2 and P16 in oropharyngeal cancer patients with or without HPV16 infection, as well as to analyze the prognostic potential of selected CSCs biomarkers in these two subgroups.

METHODS:

The study was performed in a group of 63 patients. HPV16 infection status was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, while CD44, CD98, ALDH1/2 and P16 expression by immunohistochemistry. In survival analysis, two endpoints were applied: overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS).

RESULTS:

Among 63 cancers, HPV16 infection was found in 25 tumors (39.7%), overexpression of CD44, CD98, ALDH1/2 and P16 in 43 (68.2%), 30 (47.6%), 33 (52.4%) and 27 (42.9%) cancers, respectively. In the HPV16-positive subgroup, DFS rate of 100% was observed in patients with tumors characterized by lack of CD44 overexpression and those treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy with cisplatin (CisPt-CRT). In the HPV16-negative subgroup 100% of DFS was noticed for patients ( n = 6) with P16 immunopositive tumors. In this subgroup none of the CSCs biomarkers evaluated in the study had any impact on OS or DFS. In patients with HPV16-positive oropharyngeal cancer, lack of CD44 overexpression and application of CisPt-CRT were found to be positive prognostic factors.