Abstract
In this study, we examine why closing a telephone call in Chinese can trigger intercultural irritations for foreigners. We investigate such irritations by comparing ways in which learners and native speakers of Chinese end phone calls. We follow a tripartite research design anchored in speech acts and interaction. First, we administered Discourse Completion Tests (DCTs) to a group of advanced European learners of Chinese and a group of native speakers of Chinese, investigating how members of these groups close telephone calls. Second, we studied two corpora of telephone closing conversations, including a Chinese and an English as lingua franca corpus. Third, we considered whether the pragmatic differences observed through our DCTs reflect broader Chinese and Western conventions of telephone closing observed through our interactional corpora, and whether the behaviour of foreign speakers of Chinese may have been influenced by pragmatic transfer. Through the research outcomes we interpret the above-mentioned intercultural irritations.
Abstract
This study aimed to perform lactose hydrolysis using free and immobilised β-galactosidase in cow and sheep milk with different fat levels, followed by lactulose synthesis through the isomerisation of glucose to fructose using immobilised glucose isomerase. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in lactose hydrolysis (>95%) using the free enzyme in the different types of milk. In contrast, significant differences were observed for the hydrolysis of whole cow milk (WCM) and skimmed cow milk (SCM) with the immobilised enzyme (IE). WCM required a longer hydrolysis time (43 h). Thus, the fat content may have affected the lactose hydrolysis of bovine milk with immobilised β-galactosidase. No difference was observed for whole sheep milk and skimmed sheep milk hydrolysed by IE, possibly due to the presence of smaller fat globules, which did not affect the lactose hydrolysis. No significant differences were observed for lactulose synthesis in whole milk from the different species evaluated. The lactulose synthesis in cow and sheep milk by the enzymatic route may be a promising alternative, though further studies are required to optimise the production of this prebiotic in situ.
Optimal Layout of Modular Systems by Geometric Perturbations
Moduláris rendszerek optimális kiosztása geometriai perturbációk segítségével
In this study, we investigate the potential of integrating geometric perturbations into the design process to optimise modular systems such as floor coverings, façade claddings, and masonry walls. By allowing small geometry adjustments of the initial design, we achieve significant reductions in material waste or labour requirements, leading to cost-saving and environmental benefits without compromising the design concept. We compared our approach to traditional methods, where the layout of the modular system is determined after the geometry of the design is finalised. To illustrate our method, we present case studies for two- and three-dimensional modular designs.
Abstract
We investigated the feeding ecology of the crested porcupine Hystrix cristata in a semi-arid area of its northwestern Algerian native range over 8 months (September to April). Our results from micro-histological analysis based on faecal pellets revealed that this strict herbivore ate only 10 plant species, 8 wild and 2 cultivated, belonging to 9 families including Lamiaceae, Palmaceae, Poaceae, Ramnaceae and Fabaceae. The autumn diet was dominated by Thymus algeriensis, Ziziphus lotus, Chamaerops humilis and Triticum aestivum, the winter diet by T. algeriensis and C. humilis, and the spring diet by Muscari comosum, with a large amount of Vicia faba and T. aestivum. We confirm the role of this rodent species as a generalist herbivore which barely feeds on cultivated plants when wild resources are diverse and abundant.
Abstract
The genus Issus Fabricius, 1803 is divided into nine groups of species according to the structure of male genitalia. Phylogenetic position of the Canarian species of the genus is inferred with Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood analyses of four gene markers (COI, H3, CytB, 16S) dataset. Results revealed a well-supported basal dichotomy of the genus into two clades, corresponding to the Mediterranean and the Canarian species. This confirms the monophyly of the Canarian complex of Issus species which is divided into four clades corresponding to I. canariensis, I. rarus, I. bimaculatus, and I. hidipus groups of species. Our results contradict a previously published opinion on the primitiveness of the Canarian species, instead confirming the advanced position of this group. Issus canalaurisi Sergel, 1986 is placed in synonymy under I. cagola Remane, 1985, and I. maderensis Lindberg, 1954 – under I. climacus Fieber, 1876. Issus hidipus Remane 1985 is recorded for the first time from La Gomera and Tenerife Islands, I. padipus Remane 1985 – from El Hierro Island, and I. cagola – from Tenerife Island.
Az acromegalia kezelésének nehézségei 12 év próbálkozás tükrében
Difficulties of treating acromegaly in the light of 12 years of experience
Acromegalic patients’ expected survival rate and quality of life are worse than those of the healthy population. This is due to delayed diagnosis and often persistent post-surgical residual hormonal activity of the disease. Therefore, early, effective and individualized endocrine treatment and care are especially important. Our female patient was born in 1965, and has required therapy for tension-type headaches since 2008. In 2012, sella MR examination confirmed a pituitary macroadenoma of 13 mm, which was completely removed by transsphenoidal neurosurgery. Histological examination verified a somatotroph adenoma. Based on the results of post-operative oral glucose load, biochemically active acromegaly was detected, along with a negative sella MR image, thus dopamine agonist treatment was started. Later, due to rising insulin-like growth factor 1 levels and increasing headaches, she was switched to first-generation somatostatin receptor ligand (SRL) therapy. Her developing diabetes mellitus required first biguanide, then later on insulin therapy. Due to progressive complaints, growth hormone-receptor antagonist treatment was started, which resulted in partial disease control. The persistent, severe headaches significantly worsened her quality of life. Therefore, after a decade of different therapeutic approaches, despite the existing diabetes mellitus, second-generation SRL treatment was advised. On pasireotide therapy, her headache stopped immediately, and complete disease control was achieved. The retrospective somatostatin receptor (SSTR) subtype evaluation of the adenoma confirmed dominant SSTR5 expression. Pasireotide could be an optimal choice of first-line therapy in cases of acromegaly complicated by diabetes mellitus, if the adenoma has dominant SSTR5 expression. Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(40): 1587–1593.
A derékfájdalom kezelési lehetőségei: a betegoktatás jelentősége
Treatment options for low back pain: the importance of patient education
Low back pain is the most common musculoskeletal problem worldwide. According to researches, it affected 619 million people globally in 2020. It is responsible for a large percentage of absences from the workplace and visits to the doctor. Since 1990, the number of years spent on disability due to low back pain has increased by more than 50%, largely due to the aging and growth of the population worldwide. The greatest increase can be seen in low- and middle-income countries, where adequate resources are not necessarily available to deal with the problem. Low back pain is now the leading cause of disability worldwide. In acute treatment, it is important to distinguish between specific and non-specific low back pain. Its general prognosis is good, but its prevalence is high, which makes it a significant public health problem. Preventing it from becoming chronic is extremely important. The aim of its treatment is to reduce pain, maintain physical activity and restore working capacity as soon as possible. There is often a wide gap between therapeutic methods based on available evidence and clinical practice. Recommendations include self-management, programs that include education and exercise to support the resumption of everyday activities, and psychological counseling. Treatment methods that include an exercise program and patient education are the most effective in the treatment of chronic low back pain. Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(40): 1562–1569.
Páciensspecifikus implantátumok használata arckoponya-rekonstrukció során
The use of patientspecific implants in maxillofacial reconstruction
The reconstruction of facial skull defects remains a challenging task in our days. In addition to its complex anatomy and multiple complex functions, this area is also of aesthetic importance. In all cases, reconstruction must aim to achieve anatomical or functionally equivalent reconstruction and to restore facial harmony. The advent of modern imaging tools, design software and 3D printers has led to the replacement of traditional titanium miniplates and screws used in maxillofacial traumatology by custom prostheses designed digitally, and manufactured using additive manufacturing technology to suit the patient’s individual circumstances. We carried out a total of 11 cases of facial skull and frontal bone reconstruction using patient-specific implants between 2010 and 2022. The design process and the potential for clinical application are presented through two case studies of our own. In all cases, the implants healed without complications, and no wound healing complication or rejection was observed. The reconstruction was aligned with the virtual plan, resulting in a significant aesthetic improvement. Our experiences to date indicate that patient-specific implants represent a reliable option for the reconstruction of maxillofacial defects. Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(40): 1594–1600.
A telemedicina alkalmazási lehetőségei az otthoni hospice-ellátásban, avagy mit tanultunk a COVID–19-pandémiából?
Opportunities for the use of telemedicine in home hospice care: lessons learned from the COVID–19 pandemic
Introduction: Telemedicine has become increasingly essential in home hospice care, especially during the COVID–19 pandemic, as it was used to substitute for or support face-to-face home visits. Objectives: This retrospective pilot study aimed to investigate the use of telemedicine in home hospice care in Hungary during the pandemic and to explore whether home hospice services still use telemedicine after the end of the restrictions. Methods: An online survey was conducted among hospice coordinators and hospice nurses who worked in home hospice care during the pandemic. Statistical analysis was undertaken using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows software. Descriptive analysis was performed on the data. Results: Telephone contact was the most used method in home hospice care to reduce the number of face-to-face visits during the COVID–19 pandemic, and the pulse oximeter with an app was the only tool for monitoring the patients’ condition. Telephone consultation replaced face-to-face consultation with doctors for advice. Most respondents considered telemedicine helpful, mainly in reducing the staff workload. According to the respondents’ experience, half of the home hospice patients and their caregivers were welcomed to use telemedicine, and most had no problems using it. Some telemedicine-related solutions are still applied in home hospice care, and the staff would like to continue using them. Conclusion: Telemedicine was applied in home hospice care in Hungary during the COVID–19 pandemic, and there is still a demand for the use of it. Telemedicine could also be a solution to reduce differences in accessibility to home hospice care in Hungary. Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(40): 1579–1586.
A vérlemezkében gazdag fibrin alkalmazása a parodontalis sebészetben
Use of platelet-rich fibrin in periodontal surgery
Periodontal disease as a chronic inflammation of multifactorial origins causes the destruction of the supporting tissues of the teeth. Due to intraosseal defects, the prognosis of the affected teeth is questionable. Comprehensive periodontal therapy intends to stop the destruction of the attachment apparatus and reach the regeneration of lost tissues. Periodontal intrabony defects have shown improved regenerative potential due to their morphology. Interest in the use of biological agents to promote periodontal regeneration, including growth factors, has increased significantly in recent decades. Autologous platelet concentrates have been successfully applied in various fields of medicine for more than two decades. Autologous platelet concentrates are being used in more and more areas of medicine. Application of platelet-rich fibrin is the most topical among these therapeutic options. As main advantages, it can be prepared without the addition of anticoagulants, requires only one centrifugation, its high concentration of growth factors is highly supportive for wound healing and can be used in various forms. The application of platelet-rich fibrin may facilitate the successful treatment of periodontal defects. A new generation of platelet-rich fibrin may open up further opportunities, including those in periodontal wound healing. Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(40): 1570–1578.
