bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiological profile of multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis among Congolese patients
Authors: Elion Assiana Darrel Ornelle , Abdul Jabar Babatunde Pacôme Achimi , Linguissi Laure Stella Ghoma , Epola Micheska , Vouvoungui Jeannhey Christevy , Mabiala Albert , Biyogho Christopher Mebiame , Ronald Edoa Jean , Adegbite Bayodé Roméo , Adegnika Ayola Akim , Elton Linzy , Canseco Julio Ortiz , McHugh Timothy D. , Ahombo Gabriel , Ntoumi Francine
Published: December 2021

Background

There is paucity of data on the prevalence and distribution of multidrug- Resistant-Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in the Republic of Congo. Among the challenges resides the implementation of a robust TB resistance diagnostic program using molecular tools. In resource limited settings there is a need to gather data to enable prioritization of actions. The objective of this study was is to implement molecular tools as a best of diagnosing MDR and XDR-TB among presumptive tuberculosis patients referred to reference hospital of Makelekele in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo.

Methods

We have conducted a cross-sectional study, including a total of 92 presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis patients and who had never received treatment recruited at the reference hospital of Makelekele from October 2018 to October 2019. The socio-demographic and clinical data were collected as well as sputum samples. Rifampicin resistance was investigated using Xpert (Cepheid) and second-line TB drugs Susceptibility testing were performed by the Brucker HAIN Line Probe Assay (GenoType MTBDRsl VER 2.0 assay) method.

Results

From the 92 recruited patients, 57 (62%) were found positive for the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. The prevalence of rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (RR-TB) was 9.8% (9/92) and importantly 2.2% were pre-XDR/XDR.

Conclusion

This study showed a high rate of rifampicin resistance and the presence of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis in the study area in new patients. This study highlights the need for further studies of TB drug resistance in the country.
A study of sharp coefficient bounds for a new subfamily of starlike functions
Authors: Ullah Khalil , Srivastava H. M. , Rafiq Ayesha , Arif Muhammad , Arjika Sama
Published: December 2021

In this article, by employing the hyperbolic tangent function tanhz, a subfamily$\mathcal{S}_{\tanh }^{\ast }$Stanh∗of starlike functions in the open unit disk$\mathbb{D}\subset \mathbb{C}$D⊂C:$$\begin{aligned} \mathbb{D}= \bigl\{ z:z\in \mathbb{C} \text{ and } \vert z \vert < 1 \bigr\} \end{aligned}$$D={z:z∈C and |z|<1}is introduced and investigated. The main contribution of this article includes derivations of sharp inequalities involving the Taylor–Maclaurin coefficients for functions belonging to the class$\mathcal{S}_{\tanh }^{\ast } $Stanh∗of starlike functions in$\mathbb{D}$D. In particular, the bounds of the first three Taylor–Maclaurin coefficients, the estimates of the Fekete–Szegö type functionals, and the estimates of the second- and third-order Hankel determinants are the main problems that are proposed to be studied here.
On a nonlocal implicit problem under Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo fractional derivative
Authors: Alnahdi Abeer S. , Jeelani Mdi Begum , Abdo Mohammed S. , Ali Saeed M. , Saleh S.
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we study a class of initial value problems for a nonlinear implicit fractional differential equation with nonlocal conditions involving the Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo fractional derivative. The applied fractional operator is based on a nonsingular and nonlocal kernel. Then we derive a formula for the solution through the equivalent fractional functional integral equations to the proposed problem. The existence and uniqueness are obtained by means of Schauder’s and Banach’s fixed point theorems. Moreover, two types of the continuous dependence of solutions to such equations are discussed. Finally, the paper includes two examples to substantiate the validity of the main results.
Lower Circulating Sertoli and Leydig Cell Hormone Levels During Puberty in Obese Boys: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Rerat Solene , Amsellem-Jager Jessica , L’hour Marie Clemence , Bouhours-Nouet Natacha , Donzeau Aurelie , Rouleau Stephanie , Levaillant Lucie , Emeriau Fabienne , Moal Valerie , Boux de Casson Florence , Lahlou Najiba , Coutant Regis
Published: December 2021

Context

Alterations in semen characteristics and circulating Sertoli and Leydig cell hormones have been described in obese male adults. Whether hormonal alterations occur before adulthood has not been fully evaluated.

Objective

We describe circulating Sertoli and Leydig cell hormone levels in overweight–obese (ow/ob) boys through childhood and adolescence in a cross-sectional study.

Methods

Monocentric study in the Pediatric Endocrinology Unit of Angers University Hospital. Three hundred and fifty-one obese and overweight boys aged 5-19 years underwent physical examination, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry for body composition, oral glucose tolerance test on insulin and glucose, and measurements of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), inhibin B, testosterone, and estradiol. Hormonal levels were compared with normative data obtained from 652 healthy nonoverweight nonobese boys of similar age or Tanner stage.

Results

Median inhibin B and testosterone levels during puberty were significantly lower in ow/ob than in healthy boys (1) from age >12 years and thereafter for inhibin B, and (2) from age >14 years and thereafter for testosterone. At Tanner stages 4 and 5, 26%, 31%, and 18% of inhibin B, testosterone, and AMH values were below the 5th percentile in ow/ob subjects (P < .01). In multiple regression analyses, estradiol and total bone mineral density Z-score were negative predictors of inhibin B, fat mass percentage was a negative predictor of testosterone, and insulin was a negative predictor of AMH.

Conclusion

Lower Sertoli and Leydig cell hormone levels during puberty were observed in the ow/ob boys.
High Prevalence of Early Endocrine Disorders After Childhood Brain Tumors in a Large Cohort
Authors: González Briceño Laura Gabriela , Kariyawasam Dulanjalee , Samara-Boustani Dinane , Giani Elisa , Beltrand Jacques , Bolle Stéphanie , Fresneau Brice , Puget Stéphanie , Sainte-Rose Christian , Alapetite Claire , Pinto Graziella , Piketty Marie-Liesse , Brabant Séverine , Abbou Samuel , Aerts Isabelle , Beccaria Kevin , Bourgeois Marie , Roujeau Thomas , Blauwblomme Thomas , Di Rocco Federico , Thalassinos Caroline , Pauwels Christian , Rigaud Charlotte , James Syril , Busiah Kanetee , Simon Albane , Bourdeaut Franck , Lemelle Lauriane , Guerrini-Rousseau Léa , Orbach Daniel , Touraine Philippe , Doz François , Dufour Christelle , Grill Jacques , Polak Michel
Published: December 2021

Context

Endocrine complications are common in pediatric brain tumor patients.

Objective

We aimed to describe the endocrine follow-up of patients with primary brain tumors.

Methods

This is a noninterventional observational study based on data collection from medical records of 221 patients followed at a Pediatric Endocrinology Department.

Results

Median age at diagnosis was 6.7 years (range, 0-15.9), median follow-up 6.7 years (0.3-26.6), 48.9% female. Main tumor types were medulloblastoma (37.6%), craniopharyngioma (29.0%), and glioma (20.4%). By anatomic location, 48% were suprasellar (SS) and 52% non-suprasellar (NSS). Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) prevalence was similar in both groups (SS: 83.0%, NSS: 76.5%; P = 0.338), appearing at median 1.8 years (−0.8 to 12.4) after diagnosis; postradiotherapy GHD appeared median 1.6 years after radiotherapy (0.2-10.7). Hypothyroidism was more prevalent in SS (76.4%), than NSS (33.9%) (P < 0.001), as well as ACTH deficiency (SS: 69.8%, NSS: 6.1%; P < 0.001). Early puberty was similar in SS (16%) and NSS (12.2%). Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism was predominant in SS (63.1%) vs NSS (1.3%), P < 0.001, and postchemotherapy gonadal toxicity in NSS (29.6%) vs SS (2.8%), P < 0.001. Adult height was lower for NSS compared to target height (−1.0 SD, P < 0.0001) and to SS patients (P < 0.0001). Thyroid nodules were found in 13/45 patients (28.8%), including 4 cancers (4.8-11.5 years after radiotherapy). Last follow-up visit BMI was higher in both groups (P = 0.0001), and obesity incidence was higher for SS (46.2%) than NSS (17.4%).

Conclusion

We found a high incidence of early-onset endocrine disorders. An endocrine consultation and nutritional evaluation should be mandatory for all patients with a brain tumor, especially when the tumor is suprasellar or after hypothalamus/pituitary irradiation.
Hypothalamic miR-1983 Targets Insulin Receptor β and the Insulin-mediated miR-1983 Increase Is Blocked by Metformin
Authors: Chalmers Jennifer A , Dalvi Prasad S , Loganathan Neruja , McIlwraith Emma K , Wellhauser Leigh , Nazarians-Armavil Anaies , Eversley Judith A , Mohan Haneesha , Stahel Priska , Dash Satya , Wheeler Michael B , Belsham Denise D
Published: December 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) expressed in the hypothalamus are capable of regulating energy balance and peripheral metabolism by inhibiting translation of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Hypothalamic insulin resistance is known to precede that in the periphery, thus a critical unanswered question is whether central insulin resistance creates a specific hypothalamic miRNA signature that can be identified and targeted. Here we show that miR-1983, a unique miRNA, is upregulated in vitro in 2 insulin-resistant immortalized hypothalamic neuronal neuropeptide Y-expressing models, and in vivo in hyperinsulinemic mice, with a concomitant decrease of insulin receptor β subunit protein, a target of miR-1983. Importantly, we demonstrate that miR-1983 is detectable in human blood serum and that its levels significantly correlate with blood insulin and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance. Levels of miR-1983 are normalized with metformin exposure in mouse hypothalamic neuronal cell culture. Our findings provide evidence for miR-1983 as a unique biomarker of cellular insulin resistance, and a potential therapeutic target for prevention of human metabolic disease.
Pthlha and mechanical force control early patterning of growth zones in the zebrafish craniofacial skeleton
Authors: Hoyle Diego J. , Dranow Daniel B. , Schilling Thomas F.
Published: December 2021

Secreted signals in patterning systems often induce repressive signals that shape their distributions in space and time. In developing growth plates (GPs) of endochondral long bones, Parathyroid hormone-like hormone (Pthlh) inhibits Indian hedgehog (Ihh) to form a negative-feedback loop that controls GP progression and bone size. Whether similar systems operate in other bones and how they arise during embryogenesis remain unclear. We show that Pthlha expression in the zebrafish craniofacial skeleton precedes chondrocyte differentiation and restricts where cells undergo hypertrophy, thereby initiating a future GP. Loss of Pthlha leads to an expansion of cells expressing a novel early marker of the hypertrophic zone (HZ), entpd5a, and later HZ markers, such as ihha, whereas local Pthlha misexpression induces ectopic entpd5a expression. Formation of this early pre-HZ correlates with onset of muscle contraction and requires mechanical force; paralysis leads to loss of entpd5a and ihha expression in the pre-HZ, mislocalized pthlha expression and no subsequent ossification. These results suggest that local Pthlh sources combined with force determine HZ locations, establishing the negative-feedback loop that later maintains GPs.
Intermediate progenitor cells provide a transition between hematopoietic progenitors and their differentiated descendants
Authors: Spratford Carrie M. , Goins Lauren M. , Chi Fangtao , Girard Juliet R. , Macias Savannah N. , Ho Vivien W. , Banerjee Utpal
Published: December 2021

Genetic and genomic analysis in Drosophila suggests that hematopoietic progenitors likely transition into terminal fates via intermediate progenitors (IPs) with some characteristics of either, but perhaps maintaining IP-specific markers. In the past, IPs have not been directly visualized and investigated owing to lack of appropriate genetic tools. Here, we report a Split GAL4 construct, CHIZ-GAL4, that identifies IPs as cells physically juxtaposed between true progenitors and differentiating hemocytes. IPs are a distinct cell type with a unique cell-cycle profile and they remain multipotent for all blood cell fates. In addition, through their dynamic control of the Notch ligand Serrate, IPs specify the fate of direct neighbors. The Ras pathway controls the number of IP cells and promotes their transition into differentiating cells. This study suggests that it would be useful to characterize such intermediate populations of cells in mammalian hematopoietic systems.
The POLO (Partially Omitted Lobe) approach to safely treat in-breast recurrence after intraoperative radiotherapy with electrons
Authors: Leonardi Maria Cristina , Kouloura Andriana , Rojas Damaris Patricia , Zaffaroni Mattia , Intra Mattia , Veronesi Paolo , Morra Anna , Gerardi Marianna Alessandra , Fodor Cristiana Iuliana , Zerella Maria Alessia , Camarda Anna Maria , Cattani Federica , Luraschi Rosa , Viola Anna , Riva Giulia , Miglietta Eleonora , Orecchia Roberto , Dicuonzo Samantha , Jereczek-Fossa Barbara Alicja
Published: December 2021

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to evaluate feasibility of salvage 4-week hypofractionated whole breast radiotherapy (WBRT) in patients with in-breast recurrence after receiving intraoperative radiotherapy with electrons (IOERT) for primary breast cancer (BC).

Methods:

BC patients who had repeated quadrantectomy underwent modified WBRT with intensity-modulated radiotherapy using Helical Tomotherapy to underdose the IOERT region. This approach, called POLO (Partially Omitted Lobe), excluded the IOERT volume from receiving the full prescription dose.

Results:

Nine patients were treated with this approach, receiving 45 Gy in 20 fractions. A simultaneous integrated boost of 2.5 Gy in 20 fractions was delivered in 6/9 patients. Dose constraints and planning objectives were reported. No severe toxicity was reported while local control and overall survival were 100%.

Conclusion:

The POLO approach is technically feasible and capable to achieve a significant reduction of radiation dose delivered to the previous treated IOERT area.

Advances in knowledge:

The study demonstrates the technical and dosimetric feasibility of conservative salvage whole breast radiotherapy, while sparing the area already treated with IORT, in patients with in-breast recurrence.
The role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in diagnosis and treatment evaluation for ocular adnexal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma
Authors: Wang Weifang , Ni Xiaochen , Tang Tianci , Wang Jie , Li Yi , Song Xinmao
Published: December 2021

Objective:

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the value of fluorine-18-fludeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET)/CT in the diagnosis and treatment evaluation of ocular adnexal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma.

Methods:

70 patients with OAML who received radiotherapy were recruited in our study. All the patients had the 18F-FDG PET/CT examination before the treatment. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records, pathological reports, laboratory results, and imaging features of all patients. The associations between 18F-FDG PET/CT parameters and Epstein-Barr virus antibodies, treatment response, MRI data, and Ki-67 expression were investigated.

Results:

The PET/CT scan indicated that 80% (56/70) of the patients showed orbital FDG avidity. The median level of maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of the lesions was 4.65 ± 3.00 (range:1.2–13.5). 92.0% (46/50) of the mass-forming lesions showed 18F-FDG avidity, while only 50.0% (10/20) of the non-massive lesions had 18F-FDG avidity (χ2 = 13.23, p=0.01). The SUVmax in orbit, conjunctiva, and lacrimal gland lymphoma were 5.6, 2.9, and 3.7, respectively. A significant difference was identified of SUVmax among the three locations’ lymphoma using one-way ANOVA analysis (F = 5.039, p = 0.01). After completion of radiotherapy, the complete remission rate was achieved in 30.8% (4/13) of the patients without 18F-FDG avidity, and 70.4% (38/54) in cases with 18F-FDG avidity (χ2 = 5.43, p = 0.02). The correlation between high Ki-67 score and 18F-FDG avidity was confirmed (χ2 = 3.916, p = 0.048); however, no significant correlation was found between the SUVmax and Ki-67 score of the lesions (p = 0.971). Three patients (3/70, 4.3%) were upregulated the stage via PET/CT.

Conclusion:

18F-FDG PET/CT had some potential values in the diagnosis and assessment of treatment response in patients with OAML.

Advances in knowledge:

The value of 18F-FDG PET/CT for patients with OAML.
Multiparametric MRI prostate PI-RAD scoring in a district general hospital: correlating PI-RADS 3 results with histological findings
Authors: Aslam Sarmad , Tsang Jeffrey , Bickle Ian , Saiepour Ali
Published: December 2021

Objective:

Prostate cancer is the most common male cancer in the UK. In many hospitals, patients are now being referred for a multiparametric (mp) MRI scan of their prostate as part of an evaluation for the presence of prostate cancer, prior to an ultrasound-guided biopsy. Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) score of 3 are defined as “equivocal” for the presence of prostate cancer. Thus, a PI-RADS 3 lesion does not confidently determine whether there is significant prostate disease or not.

Our aim is to determine the correlation of PI-RADS 3 prostatic lesions with histology proven, clinically significant cancer.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective review on a cohort of 143 consecutive patients. Each patient underwent a mp-MRI scan of their prostate given a PI-RADS score. PI-RADS 3 lesions were analysed further based on histology and categorised into malignant and non-malignant lesions. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) results and prostatic volume of PI-RADS 3 lesions were also analysed.

Results:

We identified 45 patients with PI-RADS 3 lesions out of 143 patients. 32 patients subsequently underwent transrectal/transperineal ultrasound-guided biopsy. 43% of patients were found to have had a malignant prostatic adenocarcinoma on histology. The remaining 56% had non-malignant findings. Of those with malignant disease, there was a higher median PSA and lower mean prostatic volume.

Conclusion:

The study confirms that a score of PI-RADS 3 does not accurately differentiate between malignant and non-malignant lesions. Further investigations such as ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy and PSA parameters are required to accurately ascertain the nature of a prostate lesion with PI-RADS score 3.

Advances in knowledge:

An ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy in patients with PI-RADS 3 remains of paramount importance when distinguishing malignant vs non-malignant lesions. Multicentre data of MRI findings with PI-RADS 3 scores is required to yield a sample size large enough to carry out statistical analysis.
Clinical utility of postprocessed low-dose radiographs in skeletal imaging
Authors: Kolck Johannes , Ziegeler Katharina , Walter-Rittel Thula , Hermann Kay Geert A. , Hamm Bernd , Beck Alexander
Published: December 2021

Objectives:

Radiography remains the mainstay of diagnostic and follow-up imaging. In view of the risks and the increasing use of ionizing radiation, dose reduction is a key issue for research and development. The introduction of digital radiography and the associated access to image postprocessing have opened up new opportunities to minimize the radiation dosage. These advances are contingent upon quality controls to ensure adequate image detail and maintenance of diagnostic confidence. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical applicability of postprocessed low-dose images in skeletal radiography.

Methods:

In our study setting, the median radiation dose for full dose X-rays was 9.61 dGy*cm2 for pelvis, 1.20 dGy*cm2 for shoulder and 18.64 dGy*cm2 for lumbar spine exams. Based on these values, we obtained 200 radiographs for each anatomic region in four consecutive steps, gradually reducing the dose to 84%, 71%, 60% and 50% of the baseline using an automatic exposure control (AEC). 549 patients were enrolled for a total of 600 images. All X-rays were postprocessed with a spatial noise reduction algorithm. Two radiologists assessed the diagnostic value of the radiographs by rating the visualization of anatomical landmarks and image elements on a five-point Likert scale. A mean-sum score was calculated by averaging the two reader’s total scores. Given the non-parametric distribution, we used the Mann-Whitney U test to evaluate the scores.

Results:

Median dosage at full dose accounted for 38.4%, 48 and 53.2% of the German reference dose area product for shoulder, pelvis and lumbar spine, respectively. The applied radiation was incrementally reduced to 21.5%, 18.4% and 18.7% of the respective reference value for shoulder, pelvis and lumbar spine. Throughout the study, we observed an estimable tendency of superior quality at higher dosage in overall image quality. Statistically significant differences in image quality were restricted to the 50% dose groups in shoulder and lumbar spine images. Regardless of the applied dosage, 598 out of 600 images were of sufficient diagnostic value.

Conclusion:

In digital radiography image postprocessing allows for extensive reduction of radiation dosage. Despite a trend of superior image detail at higher dose levels, overall quality and, more importantly, diagnostic utility of low-dose images was not significantly affected. Therefore, our results not only confirm the clinical utility of postprocessed low-dose radiographs, but also suggest a widespread deployment of this advanced technology to ensure further dose limitations in clinical practice.

Advances in knowledge:

The diagnostic image quality of postprocessed skeletal radiographs is not significantly impaired even after extensive dose reduction by up to 20% of the reference value.
Psychophysiological Adaptation of a Patient with Acute Radiated Sickness of Average Degree and Acute Leukemia
Authors: Metlyaeva Nelya , Bushmanov A. , Galstyan I. , Davtyan A. , Sukhova M. , Skorobogatykh E. , Shcherbatykh O.
Published: December 2021

Purpose: Clinical and psychophysiological assessment of the adaptation of a patient who suffered from acute radiation sickness of moderate severity after the Chernobyl accident and acute leukemia, which began 30 years after the transferred ARS.

Material and methods: A clinical and psychophysiological examination of a patient who suffered from acute radiation sickness of moderate severity after the Chernobyl accident and acute leukemia that occurred 30 years after the Chernobyl accident was carried out. The object of the study was the patient D.R.I., born in 1950, deputy. Head of the Chernobyl NPP workshop, participant in the liquidation of the consequences of the 1986 Chernobyl accident. On April 26, 1986, during an emergency, he underwent relatively uniform beta-gamma radiation with the development of ARS II (moderate) severity. Within 3.5 hours after the accident was in the premises of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. In the structure of ARS, bone marrow syndrome of the second degree and oropharyngeal syndrome of the first degree of severity were observed. The radiation dose, according to a cytogenetic study, was 3.4 Gy. A psychophysiological study was carried out using the MMPI methodology, the Cattell’s 16 Personality Factors Test, the Expert automated software and methodological complex, designed to study the personality characteristics of a person, the cognitive and intellectual characteristics of a person, the Raven’s Progressive Matrices, simple and complex sensorimotor reactions and reactions to a moving object, 15 (2001) and 30 years (2016) after the Chernobyl radiation accident.

Results: The clinical and psychophysiological assessment of the personality and the actual mental state made it possible to determine the demonstrative-hypochondriacal type of disturbance in the psychophysiological adaptation with the tendency for the anxiety-depressive behavior of the patient to progress to a state of increasing depression, more pronounced in dynamics.

Conclusion: The psychophysiological assessment of the personality and current mental state of the patient who had ARS, moderate and, 30 years after the Chernobyl accident, acute leukemia showed a demonstrative-hypochondria type of adaptation disorder, as a variant of a disharmonious combination of hypochondria, anxiety-depressive and demonstrative tendencies with a predominance of demonstrativeness (the first, second and third scale of the MMPI methodology) with a significant decrease on the ninth scale in the form of an increase in depression in dynamics. The prevalence of demonstrativeness over growing depression in a person with high intellect, good figurative and logical thinking, and a lack of sensorimotor inhibition is a manifestation of optimism and resistance to a serious illness.
Analysis of Relation Between Lifetime Rates and Incorporation of Plutonium-239 in Atomic Production Workers Regarding Tumor and Non-Tumor Causes of Death
Authors: Tel'nov V. , Legkikh I. , Okatenko P.
Published: December 2021

Purpose: The objective of the study was in quantitative assessment of the effect of internal exposure to lifetime in Mayak PA workers based on analyzing dependence of certain lifetime rates on incorporation of plutonium-239 regarding tumor and non-tumor causes of death.

Material and methods: The cohort of deceased Mayak PA workers employed in1948–1958 with known Pu-239 body burden comprising 2343 individuals, of them 1739 males and 604 females, was investigated. Using regression analysis we have assessed dependence of general lifetime and lifetime after start of work as well as of proportion of individuals who did not survive until standard age in general and after start of work from incorporated Pu-239 separately for workers of different age regarding tumor and non-tumor causes of death. Statistical values were defined using Statistica software.

Results: It was stated that in case of increase of plutonium-239 body burden in males and females reliably increased shortening of lifetime and lifetime after start of work was observed as well as increased proportion of individuals who did not survive until standard lifetime rate and until standard lifetime after start of work. Reliable regression equations for dependence of the studied lifetime values from radionuclide incorporation rate were obtained based on regression analysis. Generally, changes in the studied characteristics of lifetime after start of work were more evident than in general lifetime characteristics.

Conclusion: Reliable dependence of shortening of lifetime and lifetime after start of work, of increased proportion of individuals who did not survive until standard lifetime and lifetime after start of work among Mayak PA workers of different gender from incorporation of plutonium-239 regarding tumor and non-tumor causes of death was stated. Dependence of lifetime after start of work on incorporated plutonium-239 was higher than of general lifetime that could be probably due to direct contact of workers with radionuclide after start of work. The results obtained indicate feasibility of using not only general lifetime but also lifetime after start of work in assessment of lifetime among workers who are in contact with production hazardous factors.
Merchants of Pherae. The role of maritime trade in relations between the Thessalian tyrants and Athens in the 4th century B.C.
Authors: Sprawski Sławomir
Published: December 2021

According to Plutarch, the Athenians honoured Alexander of Pherae with a bronze statute. It is difficult to explain such a high award with the ephemeral political cooperation between Pherae and Athens. The Author aims to show that the honour could have resulted from the involvement of the family of the Pheraean tyrants in maritime trade with Athens. To substantiate this thesis, the Author collects arguments showing the existence of trade relations between Pagasae and Pireus and the Pheraeans’ involvement in maritime trade.
The Oath of a New Burgess from the Comparison Point of View
Authors: Komárková Hana
Published: December 2021

The Oath of a New Burgess from the Comparison Point of ViewThe role of immigration in the life of the late medieval and early modern town was important. A key part of this process (and best captured in the sources of urban origin) was the integration of a new burgher into existing urban social and economic structures. Like most of the power-economic relations of this time, the individual-burgher relationship to the group was based on mutual guarantees confirmed by an oath taken by a newly-accepted member. The essay will focus on the relevance and usability of early modern and modern codifications of urban oaths to explore the development of urban structures in the late Middle Ages and Early Modernity. It will also focus on comparing the content of the oath of the new burgher both in the general context of the oaths used in the urban environment and in the context of the specific development of the urban community in the area under consideration (Silesian and north Moravian towns based on Magdeburg rights) compared to the situation in the Western part of Holy Roman Empire.
Wychowanie i polityka. Szkoła Szymona Askenazego we wspomnieniach Antoniego Plutyńskiego (1880-1965)
Authors: Hoszowska Mariola Małgorzata
Published: December 2021

The memoirs of a lawyer, economist and entrepreneur Antoni Plutyński, who listened to lectures and worked in a private seminar of Szymon Askenazy, provide important information on the didactic activity of the outstanding historian from Lviv. His intelligence, broad knowledge, literary talent and ability to draw attention attracted ambitious students for whom the idea of history referring to life seemed extremely attractive. Askenazy, striving primarily for the scientific development of young people, did not refuse to help a group of politically active students with national views. In this kind of commitment, he sought achieving the goal to prepare the elite for the reborn Polish state.
Pietas and impietas as the characteristics of “good” and “bad” citizens and politicians in Rome during the decline of the Republic
Authors: Kowalski Henryk Bolesław
Published: December 2021

Abstract: The article discusses the use of religious elements (the contrast between the concepts of pietas vs. impietas) in the characterisation of Roman politicians and citizens during the declining years of the Republic. Pietas symbolised people possessing virtues of divine character, which, consequently, ensured their exceptional position. Accusations of impietas covered a number of cases of violation of religious regulations: inter alia, negligence of rites or sacrifices (neglegentia), profanation of worship or a sacred place, encroaching on or destruction of temples (templa, aedes, fana, sacella), places (e.g. groves – luci) or objects (e.g. altars – arae, statues – simulacra) recognised as holy, as well as tombs (violatio), sacrilegium (sacrilege), violation of the principles of divinatio (contra auspicia), as well as waging a war contrary to religious principles (bellum impium).Abstrakt: Artykuł poświęcony jest wykorzystaniu elementów religijnych (zestawienia pojęć: „pietas” - „impietas”) w charakterystyce rzymskich polityków i obywateli epoki schyłku Republiki. Pietas symbolizowała ludzi, którzy skupiali w sobie te cnoty, które miały boski charakter i w związku z tym zapewniały im wyjątkową pozycję. Oskarżenia o impietas obejmowały szereg przypadków naruszenia przepisów religijnych: m.in. zaniedbanie rytuałów bądź ofiar (neglegentia), znieważenie kultu bądź miejsca świętego, naruszenie, bądź zniszczenie: świątyń (templa, aedes, fana, sacella), miejsc (np.gajów – luci) lub rzeczy (np. ołtarze – arae, posągi – simulacra)  uznanych za święte, a także grobów (violatio), „sacrilegium” (świętokradztwo), naruszenie zasad „divinatio” ( contra auspicia), a także prowadzenia niezgodnej z zasadami religijnymi wojny (bellum impium).
Ad exemplum rei publicae. Roman private colleges and the civitas
Authors: Wojciechowski Przemysław
Published: December 2021

The starting point for these studies is the opinion that Roman colleges were to be a copy of the respublica. I have attempted to prove that 1. with regard to organisation, copying municipal (civic) solutions was usually limited to adopting the nomenclature (names of corporate offices) and some institutions (corporate treasury, gatherings (meetings) of corporate members) known from public life. 2. In the sphere of symbols, referring to civic ideals/civic ethos was one of the bases of corporate identity. Both the system of values and the tools used to create the college’s image, founded on this system, were identical for colleges and the community of citizens. In other words, an ideal college member was also an ideal citizen.
Models and Algorithms for the Bin-Packing Problem with Minimum Color Fragmentation
Authors: Mehrani Saharnaz , Cardonha Carlos , Bergman David
Published: December 2021

In the bin-packing problem with minimum color fragmentation (BPPMCF), we are given a fixed number of bins and a collection of items, each associated with a size and a color, and the goal is to avoid color fragmentation by packing items with the same color within as few bins as possible. This problem emerges in areas as diverse as surgical scheduling and group event seating. We present several optimization models for the BPPMCF, including baseline integer programming formulations, alternative integer programming formulations based on two recursive decomposition strategies that utilize decision diagrams, and a branch-and-price algorithm. Using the results from an extensive computational evaluation on synthetic instances, we train a decision tree model that predicts which algorithm should be chosen to solve a given instance of the problem based on a collection of derived features. Our insights are validated through experiments on the aforementioned applications on real-world data.

Summary of Contribution: In this paper, we investigate a colored variant of the bin-packing problem. We present and evaluate several exact mixed-integer programming formulations to solve the problem, including models that explore recursive decomposition strategies based on decision diagrams and a set partitioning model that we solve using branch and price. Our results show that the computational performance of the algorithms depends on features of the input data, such as the average number of items per bin. Our algorithms and featured applications suggest that the problem is of practical relevance and that instances of reasonable size can be solved efficiently.
Influencing Social Media Influencers Through Affiliation
Authors: Pei Amy , Mayzlin Dina
Published: December 2021

This paper studies how firms can strategically manage product reviews by social media influencers.
O projeto americanista, a campanha pelo ferro e petróleo nas missivas de Monteiro Lobato e Arthur Neiva (1927 – 1942)
Authors: Leal Rhaiane Mendonça
Published: December 2021

Este artigo propõe a pensar as temáticas das correspondências trocadas entre o literato Monteiro Lobato e o cientista Arthur Neiva, entre 1927 e 1942. O objetivo é compreender os diálogos entre os referidos intelectuais acerca da aplicação do projeto americanista, do desenvolvimento da metalurgia e da campanha do petróleo no Brasil. A metodologia empregada se deu por intermédio da análise dos arquivos do Centro de Pesquisa e Documentação de História Contemporânea no Brasil (CPDOC/ FGV). A questão nacional é apresentada nos projetos e concepções escritas em missivas de Lobato e Neiva, bem como as formas de engajamento com os debates intelectuais do período, e o repertório acionado para transformar o país em uma nação viável.
Luís da Câmara Cascudo e Mário de Andrade, uma amizade epistolar
Authors: Maciel Raquel Silva
Published: December 2021

A epistolografia caracteriza-se como uma forma essencialmente dialogada que expõe dados biográficos, literários e históricos e possibilita instituir uma proximidade a partir da continuidade da correspondência ou da tentativa de estabelecê-la. Tudo que pode ser dito e/ou escrito é capaz de ser objeto da carta, essas se expressam não só pelas palavras que contém, mas por elementos como os silêncios, portanto, são significativas para a compreensão das sociabilidades instituídas entre um conjunto de pessoas, que são ligados por interesses comuns, como os intelectuais. Nessa perspectiva, apresentamos considerações acerca da escrita epistolar, a partir da prática desenvolvida entre Luís da Câmara Cascudo e Mário de Andrade, atentando para o uso da epistolografia como espaço propício para o processo de criação intelectual e para o florescimento de relações afetivas fortes e duradouras.
A crise da América Latina em tempos de pandemia da Covid-19
Authors: Sarmiento da Silva Erica , Payan Tony
Published: December 2021

Apresentação do dossiê
Determination of Factors and Indicators of Efficient Port Functioning
Authors:   Azov Maritime Institute National University ", Makarenko M. ,   Odessa Maritime Academy", Barskiy I. ,   Azov Maritime Institute National University "Odessa Maritime Academy", Popov V. ,   Azov Maritime Institute National University "Odessa Maritime Academy"
Published: December 2021

The article emphasizes the lack of a systematic and unified approach to measuring the performance of ports with different properties. The analysis of practical and theoretical approaches and the comparative analysis of indicators of efficiency of port are carried out. Measuring efficiency plays a significant role in assessing production in its current and future state. With the appropriate performance measurement, the system in the organization can be set up to move in the desired direction by analyzing behavioral responses and understanding the impact of different performance indicators on port performance. However, incorrectly defined performance indicators will lead the organization in the wrong direction and cause unforeseen negative consequences. Port efficiency can have a major impact on the region's economic growth, as ports connect maritime transport and inland transport. They are also important suppliers for ships, cargo and inland transport. Port performance analysis gives operators a clear idea of how much port resources are being used and helps them compare their strengths and weaknesses. Measuring port efficiency improves port development and maintains its competitiveness in an increasingly competitive commercial environment. Therefore, it is important to first conduct a comprehensive study to determine the performance of the port, relevant to the activities of ships, cargo and terminals. By assessing the efficiency of ports using certain indicators, you can get an idea of comparing their efficiency, even internationally. A review of practical and theoretical approaches to the comparative analysis of port efficiency indicators over the past three decades and summarized the main differences in these studies found the lack of a systematic and unified approach to measuring the performance of ports with different properties. Recent studies have aimed to analyze the performance of port terminals, as they are the most important component of ports, operations for the transfer of berths and court operations in the terminals fundamentally determine the efficiency of the port. Port bandwidth is one of the most widely used indicators of port efficiency. Productivity growth is seen as direct evidence of port activity. One of the most important aspects of measuring seaport efficiency is performance, and the popular database analysis (DEA) method is commonly used to evaluate it. There are several other models used for cross-sectional and panel data, such as software. To assess port efficiency, this study examines the analysis of the DEA and FDH database through its ability to analyze multiple outputs and inputs simultaneously.
Features of Strategic Management of Innovative Development of Industrial Enterprises
Authors:   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Korzh M. , Belikova E. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Fomichenko I. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Barkova S. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy
Published: December 2021

The article considers the main aspects of strategic management of industrial development. A model of strategic management of an industrial enterprise has been developed. It is proved that the combination of integration of strategic and innovation management leads to the improvement of enterprises' competitive position in the market by creating competitive advantages. Peculiarities of formation of strategic management of innovative development at the industrial enterprise are investigated, the main of which is perspective orientation of innovative activity on inquiries of consumers, flexible reaction and continuous updating of parameters of business model, proceeding from competition requirements, towards achievement of steady advantages by development of creativity and intellectual potential of the enterprise, which causes the growth of its importance in the management system of a modern enterprise in terms of innovative development. It is determined that the main advantages of strategic thinking in terms of leadership and management of the enterprise are: the ability to subordinate all activities to a key aspect of strategy; the ability to more clearly respond to changes in the internal environment and the environment by the owners and management of the enterprise; the ability of enterprise managers to assess alternatives for capital investment and staff development, which provides opportunities for redeployment of resources to strategic areas and strategic projects for enterprise development and others. The stages of strategic innovation management are outlined, which will ensure the achievement of the desired results through the implementation of innovative implementations in the future.
Formation of a System of Management Indicators Electronic Business in the Conditions of Modern Economic Conjuncture
Authors:   Polotsk State University, Pavlov K. , Ilyin S. ,   Polotsk State University
Published: December 2021

The article presents the author's formalized approach to the formation and evaluation of the system of indicators for conducting electronic business in static and dynamic states, contributing to the detailed disclosure of the interaction of factor and resultant parameters by which organizations will be able to justify the decisions taken by entrepreneurs in modern economic conditions to ensure the best final and intermediate benchmarks for themselves. The purpose of the study is aimed at creating a reliable system that integrates general and private indicators of e-business for the subsequent balancing of results, costs and extraction of marginal financial benefits. The objectives of the study are focused on annotating the activities of organizations that operate and implement business processes in the current economic environment, as well as integrating indicators based on it that reflect static and dynamic cause-and-effect relationships in the field of commerce. The methods for performing the research were chain substitutions supplemented with mathematical analysis, which will allow organizations to obtain complete and reliable information about the quality of e-business. The work is intended for managers and specialists of commercial organizations, educators and scientists engaged in the study of the economics of entrepreneurship.
Substantiation of Directions of Development of Rural and Settlement Territorial Communities of the Luhansk Region
Authors:   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, Savchenko A.
Published: December 2021

In connection with the completion of the administrative-territorial reform and the creation of 1469 territorial communities (TGs) in Ukraine, which function on the basis of direct relations with the central budget of the country, the issue of summarizing the results of the activities of previously created communities to generalize the directions of their development is being updated. An analysis of the activities of previously created TGs, which have worked on the terms of direct relationships with the state budget for 1 to 3 years, shows a very different level of their effectiveness. Therefore, the issue of economic efficiency of TG activities should become an object of thorough research in order to determine the factors and substantiate the directions of development of territorial communities. Based on a study of the performance indicators of 17 rural communities in the Luhansk region, results were obtained that show certain patterns of variability in the specific indicators of income, capital and current costs per capita, depending on the general indicators of TG, such as the number of inhabitants and the area of TG territory. As a result, for the rural territorial communities of the Luhansk region, functioning in the same climatic and industrial conditions, ideas about relevant areas of community development, in particular, through more efficient use of land resources, assistance to the development of entrepreneurship, limiting the costs of maintaining the community management apparatus, taking into account objective trends in the change in indicators depending on the size and area of the territory of communities.