bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanvuranlat, an L-type amino acid transporter (LAT1) inhibitor for patients with pretreated advanced refractory biliary tract cancer (BTC): Primary endpoint results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 study.
Authors: Furuse Junji , Ikeda Masafumi , Ueno Makoto , Furukawa Masayuki , Morizane Chigusa , Takehara Tetsuo , Nishina Tomohiro , Todaka Akiko , Okano Naohiro , Hara Kazuo , Nakai Yousuke , Ohkawa Kazuyoshi , Sasaki Takashi , Sugimori Kazuya , Yokoyama Naoyuki , Yamamoto Kouji
Published: February 2023

494

Background: LAT1 is a transporter ( SLC7A5) of L-type amino acid. Overexpression in cancer cells supports aggressive proliferation. High expression of LAT1 in tumor specimens has been identified as a predictor of poor prognosis in patients with various cancer types, including BTC. The efficacy and safety of nanvuranlat (JPH203), a first-in-class, single agent that selectively inhibits LAT1, was evaluated in patients with pretreated, advanced, refractory BTC in a placebo-controlled randomized trial. Methods: Patients with four different subtypes of advanced BTC were enrolled: intrahepatic (IHC), extrahepatic (EHC), gallbladder (GBC) and ampulla of Vater (AVC). All were refractory to or intolerant of standard chemotherapy and other investigational medicines. Patients were pre-classified as non-rapid acetylators via N-acetyltransferase 2 ( NAT2), to maximize efficacy/safety by minimizing the metabolism of nanvuranlat. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS), assessed by blinded independent center review (BICR), using RECIST 1.1. Results: At data cut-off (February 28, 2022), 211 BTC patients were consented at 14 centers in Japan. Using NAT2 testing for classification, a total of 106 patients were randomized (2:1) to nanvuranlat (n = 70) or placebo (n = 36). Nanvuranlat met its primary endpoint and demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in PFS by BICR in comparison with the placebo group (Hazard Ratio = 0.557; 95% CI, 0.3435 – 0.9029; one-sided p = 0.0164). The disease control rate (DCR) in the nanvuranlat group was approximately 25% (average = 24.6%) across all BTC subtypes, while it was 11.4% in the placebo group. Grade 3 adverse events were reported in 30.0% for nanvuranlat vs 22.9% for placebo. Treatment-related adverse event rates were respectively 41.4% and 57.1% in the nanvuranlat and placebo groups. No patient had adverse events leading to nanvuranlat treatment discontinuation, dose reduction, or death. Conclusions: The study met the primary endpoint. LAT1 inhibitor monotherapy with nanvuranlat demonstrated useful clinical efficacy in patients with four different subtypes of pre-treated, advanced, refractory BTC. Safe and highly tolerated profile was also documented. Clinical trial information: UMIN000034080 .
A Novel Cervical Vertebral Bone Quality Score Independently Predicts Cage Subsidence After Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion
Authors: Soliman Mohamed A. R. , Aguirre Alexander O. , Kuo Cathleen C. , Ruggiero Nicco , Khan Asham , Ghannam Moleca M. , Rho Kyungduk , Jowdy Patrick K. , Mullin Jeffrey P. , Pollina John
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND:

Surgeons can preoperatively assess bone quality using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry or computed tomography; however, this is not feasible for all patients. Recently, a MRI-based scoring system was used to evaluate the lumbar spine's vertebral bone quality.

OBJECTIVE:

To create a similar MRI-based scoring system for the cervical spine (C-VBQ), correlate C-VBQ scores with computed tomography-Hounsfield units (HU), and evaluate the utility of this scoring system to independently predict cage subsidence after single-level anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF).

METHODS:

Demographic, procedure-related, and radiographic data were collected for patients. Pearson correlation test was used to determine the correlation between C-VBQ and HU. Cage subsidence was defined as ≥3 mm loss of fusion segmental height. A multivariate logistic regression model was built to determine the correlation between potential risk factors for subsidence.

RESULTS:

Of 59 patients who underwent single-level ACDF, subsidence was found in 17 (28.8%). Mean C-VBQ scores were 2.22 ± 0.36 for no subsidence levels and 2.83 ± 0.38 (P < .001) for subsidence levels. On multivariate analysis, a higher C-VBQ score was significantly associated with subsidence (odds ratio = 1.85, 95% CI = 1.39-2.46, P < .001) and was the only significant independent predictor of subsidence after ACDF. There was a significant negative correlation between HU and C-VBQ (r2 = −0.49, P < .001).

CONCLUSION:

We found that a higher C-VBQ score was significantly associated with cage subsidence after ACDF. Furthermore, there was a significant negative correlation between C-VBQ and HU. The C-VBQ score may be a valuable tool for assessing preoperative bone quality and independently predicting cage subsidence after ACDF.
Leukocyte-Rich and Platelet-Rich Fibrin for Skull Base Reconstruction After Endoscopic Endonasal Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Constanzo Felipe , Pinto Jaime , Ledermann Cristian , Schmidt Thomas
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND:

Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is one of the most common complications after endoscopic endonasal approach to the skull base.

OBJECTIVE:

To analyze the effect of leukocyte-rich and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) as part of a standardized endonasal skull base repair protocol on postoperative infection and CSF leak rate.

METHODS:

One hundred three patients who underwent an endoscopic endonasal approach and were reconstructed using a standard technique (Group A) were compared with 139 patients using the same protocol with the addition of L-PRF (Group B). Postoperative intracranial infection and CSF leak at 6 months were analyzed.

RESULTS:

In patients with intraoperative CSF leak, postoperative leak occurred in 10.8% in Group A and 2.6% in Group B (P.024), and in patients with intraoperative high-flow leaks, the incidences were 11.7% and 3.1%, respectively (P.048). L-PRF reduced postoperative CSF leak by 76% in cases with intraoperative CSF leak (relative risk 0.24, 95% CI 0.06-0.87) and by 73% of patients with high-flow leak (relative risk 0.27, 95% CI 0.07-0.99). In patients undergoing surgery for diagnoses other than adenomas, there were no cases of postoperative leak in Group B, whereas in Group A occurred in 13.4% of those with intraoperative leaks (P.047) and 15.8% with high-flow intraoperative leaks (P.033). No significant differences were found in patients with pituitary adenoma. Meningitis occurred in 0.97% in Group A vs 2.16% in Group B (P.639), without differences between subgroups.

CONCLUSION:

L-PRF reduced the rate of postoperative CSF leaks in patients with intraoperative leaks, without differences on postoperative meningitis.
Ultra-low-dose CT is feasible for torsion measurement of the lower limb in patients with metal implants
Authors: Keller Gabriel , Grünwald Leonard , Springer Fabian
Published: February 2023

Objectives:

Patients who need torsion measurement of the lower limb often have metal implants hindering e.g. MRI. A new ultra-low-dose (ULD-)CT protocol might be feasible for torsion measurement at cost of relatively low radiation exposure.

Methods:

We retrospectively included all patients with clinically indicated torsion measurement in the period July 2019 to June 2021 and metal implants in the scanning field. The ULD-CT protocol comprised automated tube current time product and automated tube voltage with reference settings of 100kV/20mAs (hip), 80kV/20mAs (knee) and 80kV/10mAs (ankle). Femoral neck anteversion, tibial, intra-articular knee and overall leg torsion measurements were performed by two radiologists independently. Diagnostic confidence regarding the delineation of the relevant cortical bone was rated on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = non-diagnostic, 5 = excellent).

Results:

102 consecutive patients could be included (BMI 27.38 ± 5.85) with 154 metal implants. Median total dose length product of the ULD-CT-torsion measurement was 16.5mGycm [11-39]. Both readers showed high agreement with a maximum torsional difference of 4.1°. Diagnostic confidence was rated best (5/5) in 92.2% (reader 1) and 93.1% (reader 2) with a worst rating of 3/5.

Conclusion:

The new ULD-CT protocol is feasible for torsion measurement of the lower limb – even in patients with metal implants.

Advances in knowledge:

Metal implants are not an obstacle for ULD-CT torsion measurements of the lower limb.
Research should remain a priority in 21st century radiology recruitment to training
Authors: Jenkins Paul , Mandal Indrajeet , Zhong Jim , Goh Vicky
Published: February 2023

Research drives innovation, however, recently Clinical Radiology has been overwhelmed by increased clinical demand, workforce shortages and lack of funding/protected research time. The newly released 2023 radiology speciality application process gives research a lower priority compared to other domains such as audit which is concerning given the current lack of research culture within the speciality. It is vital for the future radiology workforce to engage with research and in order to fulfil the Royal College of Radiologist’s new curriculum aims of strengthening research within training, we must continue attracting the brightest and best candidates and ensure research remains a priority.
Σχεδιασμός και κατασκευή μη παραμετρικών διαγραμμάτων ελέγχου για την ανίχνευση μετατοπίσεων στην παράμετρο θέσης
Authors: Αλεβιζάκος Βασίλειος
Published: February 2023

Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή πραγματεύεται με τον σχεδιασμό και την κατασκευή μη παραμετρικών (ή ελεύθερης κατανομής) διαγραμμάτων ελέγχου για την ανίχνευση μετατοπίσεων στην παράμετρο θέσης μίας άγνωστης κατανομής. Το κύριο πλεονέκτημα των μη παραμετρικών διαγραμμάτων ελέγχου είναι ότι τα χαρακτηριστικά της εντός ελέγχου κατανομής του μήκους ροής παραμένουν ίδια για κάθε συνεχή (και σε ορισμένες περιπτώσεις συμμετρική) κατανομή. Στο πρώτο Κεφάλαιο, δίνουμε ορισμένες βασικές έννοιες αναφορικά με τα διαγράμματα ελέγχου, ενώ στο δεύτερο Κεφάλαιο, παρουσιάζουμε τη δομή και τις ιδιότητες ορισμένων γνωστών παραμετρικών διαγραμμάτων ελέγχου σχεδιασμένα για την κανονική κατανομή και επίσης προτείνουμε δύο νέα σχήματα, ένα με τρεις εκθετικά σταθμισμένους μέσους και ένα με δύο ομοιογενώς σταθμισμένους κινούμενους μέσους. Στα επόμενα δύο Κεφάλαια, μελετάμε μη παραμετρικά διαγράμματα ελέγχου με χρήση της συνήθους προσημικής και προσημικής-βαθμολογικής στατιστικής συνάρτησης και υπολογίζουμε τις αποδόσεις τους χρησιμοποιώντας τα χαρακτηριστικά του μήκους ροής με τη μέθοδο των προσομοιώσεων Monte Carlo. Επιπλέον, προτείνουμε νέα διαγράμματα ελέγχου τα οποία είναι πιο αποδοτικά από τα υπάρχοντα, ιδιαίτερα για μικρές μετατοπίσεις στην παράμετρο θέσης. Στο τελευταίο Κεφάλαιο, παρέχουμε τα συμπεράσματα και ορισμένα θέματα για μελλοντική έρευνα.
ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE TECHNOLOGY FOR SYNTHESIZING TITANIUM TRICHLORIDE FOR THE NEEDS OF VARIOUS INDUSTRIES
Authors: Kuzin Evgenii N. , Nosova Tatyana I. , Kruchinina Natalya E.
Published: February 2023

The authors have assessed the possibility of electrochemical synthesis of a wide range of reagents based on titanium trichloride as part of the work. Despite the growing demand for titanium trichloride and its derivatives, the production technology of this reagent has not been improved for a long period. Traditional technologies feature high environmental and industrial hazards, and the process itself has high energy consumption and a complex hardware scheme. As part of preliminary work, the possibility of obtaining titanium trichloride from aqueous solutions of titanium tetrachloride is established, while the proposed technology is distinguished by reduced energy consumption and safety. At the first stage of experiments in the anodic dissolution of aluminum, binary solutions of titanium trichloride and aluminum chloride are obtained. The degree of conversion TiCl4 → -TiCl3 is 65%–35% for a current density of 10–30 A/dm2, respectively. In the process of reducing an aqueous solution of titanium tetrachloride with iron electrodes, the yield of titanium trichloride is approximately 76%–66% for a current density of 10–30 A/dm2, respectively. The resulting solution is heavily contaminated with iron (II) compounds. The results of the experiments show the high efficiency of this solution in the processes of purification of wastewater from galvanic production from chromium (VI) compounds. For the production of high-purity titanium trichloride, titanium electrodes are used, while the yield of titanium trichloride is 59%–3% for a current density of 10–30 A/dm2, respectively. Depending on the production technology and electrode material, solutions are obtained that can be used to produce high-purity titanium dioxide for the production of dye-sensitized solar cells, reagents for water purification, and a Ziegler-Natta catalyst and a reagent for organic synthesis.
NEW PROMISING AGENTS FOR PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY
Authors: Shevchenko Olga V. , Plekhova Natalya G. , Korshunova Oksana V. , Tananaev Ivan G. , Apanasevich Vladimir I.
Published: February 2023

The problem of oncological diseases has acquired a social and medical character. In this regard, the rapid development of new drugs and methods, as well as modification of existing methods in order to increase their effectiveness, is currently required. The paper aims to develop and study two promising agents for photodynamic therapy. We discussed a new binary complex based on the widely used photosensitizer chlorin E6 with europium, which can solve one of the main disadvantages of drugs for photodynamic therapy: it can be used to treat deeper tumors and act more effectively by transferring luminescence energy between europium and chlorin E6. Our other agent was copper-containing chlorophyllin. Chlorophyllin is a natural component, which is always promising in the development of new drugs. The optical and fluorescent parameters of the agents were determined using physicochemical methods; their ability to generate reactive oxygen species in the presence of two fluorescent probes was studied: 2ʹ, 7ʹ-dichlorodihydrofluorescein and dihydrofluorescein. Thus, we showed the effectiveness of chlorophyllin in comparison with chlorin E6 by 1.92 times at 50 μg / ml E6 and showed the effectiveness of the binary complex even at the minimum concentration of 10 μg / ml. Further research in cell cultures will develop the ways of the possible use of new substances as photosensitizers.
A METHOD FOR ASSESSMENT OF RESULTS OF SPECIALISED “DENTAL HEALTH LESSONS” IMPLEMENTATION AS AN EFFECTIVE TOOL FOR PREVENTION OF MOST COMMON DENTAL DISEASES IN CHILDREN WITH VISION PATHOLOGY
Authors: Surdo Elvira S. , Galonisky Vladislav G.
Published: February 2023

The “dental health lessons” are an effective tool for prevention of dental diseases in healthy children and children with health limitations. This technology was developed for children with vision pathology. Therewith, objective assessment of its implementation from the standpoint of digestion of theoretical material and practical skills remains relevant.

Aim of study. To increase the efficacy of prevention of most common dental diseases in children with visual sensory deprivation based on development and practical implementation of objective control of qualitative characteristics related to the effectiveness of specialised “dental health lessons”.

Materials and methods. A method for objective control of practical implementation of remedial “dental health lessons” for children with vision pathology based on sociological research methods and on universal mathematical technologies for interpretation of the results obtained has been developed. The efficacy of practical implementation of the aforementioned method in specialised type III and IV pre-school educational institutions and schools in Krasnoyarsk has been evaluated.

Results and discussion. The results of practical implementation of the developed method revealed the sufficient quality of the assessment tools: questionnaires and check-lists for assessment of the knowledge and practical skills obtained accounting for the specifics of the general somatic and psychophysiological condition of the blind and vision-impaired children based on the pedagogy for blind and vision-impaired students adjusted for different age-related developmental stages. The method is highly informative, objective and reliable for diagnostics of the presence of relevant knowledge and skills in vision-impaired children and makes it possible to determine the necessity and the tactics of further remedial classes.

Conclusion. The method developed makes it possible to perform objective and reliable assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills related to dental disease prevention based on numerical evaluation. The method is non-invasive and harmless for the subjects, highly informative, simple in application, does not require expensive equipment and special training of the personnel, which provides the possibility of its application in pre-school educational institutions and schools without additional time expenditure by the dental practitioner.
DETERMINING CONSUMER APPEAL OF SELECTED GARDEN STRAWBERRY VARIETIES (FRAGARIA × ANANASSA DUCH.)
Authors: Luk’yanchuk Irina V. , Zhbanova Ekaterina V. , Lyzhin Alexander S.
Published: February 2023

Improving the biochemical strawberry fruit composition and aroma is an important goal to develop the assortment of strawberry plants because only a few present-day varieties combine the high quality and aroma in strawberry fruits with increased accumulation of the biochemical composition components. The paper aims to assess hybrid strawberry seedlings based on a range of properties in strawberry fruits to select the most promising genotypes. Strawberry aroma and its consumer appeal were evaluated organoleptically. The biochemical component was tested in the laboratory according to standard methods, and the strawberry aroma was evaluated using DNA markers.

The research identified promising genotypes showing a high level of different characteristics: 75-30 (Tokado × Elianny) – consumer appeal (5.0 points), flavor (4.5 points), polychlorinated biphenyl levels [PCB] (9.2% Brix), and vitamin C (72.1 mg/100 g); 34-2 (922-67 × Privlekatelnaya) – consumer appeal (5.0 points), strawberry aroma (FaOMT gene), flavor (4.5 points), РСВ levels (14.7% Brix), and sugars (10.8%); 153-41 (Senga Sengana × Redcoat) –consumer appeal (5.0 points), strawberry aroma (FaOMT gene), PCB levels (12.8% Brix), sugars (10.2%), and vitamin C (76.1 mg/100 g); 153-60 (Senga Sengana × Redcoat) – consumer appeal (5.0 points), strawberry aroma (FaOMT gene), flavor (4.6 points), PCB levels (11.7% Brix), and sugars (10.5%); 35-16 (922-67 × Maryshka) – flavor (4.6 points) and anthocyanins levels (90.7 mg/100 g); 72-25 (Privlekatelnaya × Bylinnaya) – combination of FaOMT and FaFAD1 strawberry aroma genes.
MYCOPLASMA CONTAMINATION OF BULL SEMEN USED FOR ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
Authors: Yatsentyuk Svetlana P.
Published: February 2023

Technologies of artificial insemination of cattle are actively used in livestock farms in Russia. At the same time, quality control of semen production does not involve testing the bull semen for microorganisms of the genus Mycoplasma. The active use of molecular genetic methods allows for the rapid determination and species identification of pathogenic mycoplasmas; however, it does not indicate the viability of the identified pathogen. The paper aims to study mycoplasma contamination of semen products presented on the Russian market and determine the conformity of the results of the Polymerase Chain Reaction [PCR] method and the traditionally used microbiological method. The paper presents the results of the first Russian study of the occurrence and viability of pathogenic species Mycoplasma bovis, M. bovigenitalium, M. californicum, and Ureaplasma diversum in semen production. We investigated 447 samples of cryopreserved semen of bulls-producers of various breeds from Russian breeding centers and breeding farms of the USA, Great Britain, and the Netherlands, supplying these products to the Russian market. The analysis shows a high frequency of occurrence in the bull semen of DNA of microorganisms of the genus Mycoplasma (up to 70.9%). Besides, M. bovigenitalium appeared to be the most frequently detected type of mycoplasma from those tested. Cases of identifying several types of mycoplasmas in one sample were revealed: in 58.8% of the studied samples of semen products from Russian farms and 15% of semen samples from international breeding centers. The viability of mycoplasmas that were positive according to PCR analysis when testing 65 samples was demonstrated using the microbiological method for 94% of samples. The correspondence of the results of microbiological and molecular genetic detection of mycoplasmas and ureaplasmas was 88.3%. The results obtained indicate the prevalence of mycoplasmas in semen production and the need to improve the control system of breeding material in order to prevent the spread of mycoplasma infections of cattle using artificial insemination technologies.
FEATURES OF TEAM BUILDING AT AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES
Authors: Petrov Sergey V.
Published: February 2023

Background. Team building is one of the most effective tools to improve the effectiveness of both human resources and the entire organization. For agricultural enterprises there is its own specifics of the implementation of team building activities, which is considered in this study.

Purpose. The goal is to study the experience of team building, taking into account the specifics of the agricultural industry and to identify the most common and significant trends associated with the development and implementation of teambuilding tools in enterprises of agricultural complex.

Materials and methods. Information from various publicly available sources, as well as the author’s own observations and conclusions in the process of analysis and development of the author’s methods on the subject of research. General scientific methods used are analysis, systematic approach and modeling; special scientific methods used are historical and logical methods.

Results. The following should be considered the most important results:

1. Key factors that have the greatest influence on the specifics of team building in agricultural organizations are described.

2. The main tendencies of agricultural development and some aspects of team building in agricultural enterprises are described.

3. Algorithm of implementation of team building in agricultural enterprises is developed and described.

Conclusion. The study and implementation of the world’s best practices in team building in the domestic agricultural enterprises will significantly increase the motivation of staff, which will increase the realization of the potential of human resources of the agricultural complex, the result will be the growth of efficiency of Russian agricultural enterprises. Further research should be carried out in the direction of each of the stages of the author’s algorithm of team building in agricultural enterprises.
MEAT PRODUCTIVITY OF FRENCH-BRED BULLS DUE TO ADAPTIVE TECHNOLOGY IN WESTERN SIBERIA
Authors: Sheveleva Olga M. , Bakharev Aleksei A.
Published: February 2023

The study of meat productivity of introduced cattle breeds in Western Siberia using adaptive technologies is of scientific and practical interest. We carried out the experiment on five cattle groups of Hereford, Limousin, Charolais, Aubrac and Salers bull calves. Furthermore, we determined the indicators of weight growth from birth to 18 months and meat productivity at the age of 18 months. At birth, live weight control was carried out at 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months when weighing animals in the morning before feeding and watering. We studied meat productivity during the control slaughter of animals at the Yalutorovsky meat processing plant. Three heads from each group were slaughtered. The slaughter was carried out according to the Lenin All-Union Academy of Agricultural Sciences [VASKhNIL] method. The experimental material was processed by the method of variation statistics using the Microsoft Excel software application. Steers of French meat breeds surpass Hereford cattle breeds in terms of live weight and average daily growth. The carcass weight of Charolais animals is 329.5 kg, which is 75.3 kg more than in Hereford bulls, P≥0.999. The results of the chemical analysis indicate that the highest fat content is contained in the minced meat of Hereford bulls – 10.6%. Introduced cattle breeds, when bred under new conditions, showed a fairly high level of meat productivity, carcasses were obtained during slaughter, with an optimal ratio of tissues and chemical composition of carcasses, in terms of the yield of edible parts in the carcass and the meat content coefficient, they surpass the Hereford cattle breed. Thus, French meat breeds are promising for beef production in Western Siberia.
APPROACHES TO RATIONAL NUTRITION OF THE POPULATION OF INDUSTRIALIZED REGIONS EXPOSED TO AEROGENIC IMPACT OF AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS
Authors: Zemlyanova Marina А. , Koldibekova Yuliya V. , Peskova Ekaterina V.
Published: February 2023

In the process of sustainable development of regions, negative consequences arise in the form of (1) depletion of natural and energy resources, (2) reduction of biological diversity, (3) violation of the stability of ecosystems, and (4) pollution of environmental objects, including atmospheric air. The constant prolonged chronic aerogenic impact of aromatic hydrocarbons on the human body can make a significant contribution to the formation of additional morbidity and mortality in the population. The ability to neutralize and correct the effect of these compounds is ensured not only by continuous monitoring of the quality of atmospheric air and its impact on human health but also by specifically selected food rations. The analysis of modern theoretical data of international and Russian scientific literature was conducted within the methodological approaches to organizing food for the population in conditions of chemical pollution of atmospheric air. We searched for scientific information in bibliographic and abstract databases. Besides, we presented the average long-term data on (1) the content of benzene and phenol in the atmospheric air and blood in children living under conditions of high chemical aerogenic load with these substances; (2) the state of the antioxidant and conjugation-elimination functions of the benzene biotransformation system; (3) the assessment of the secretion of proteolytic digestive enzymes; and (4) the state of liver cells and excretory-concentration function of the biliary tract. There are examples of food products, the systematic inclusion of which in the diet accelerates the modification and elimination of chemicals; moreover, it has a membrane-stabilizing, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant effect. Acceleration of biotransformation and elimination of toxic substances can be done by including food products with a high content of fiber and pectins in the diet. The acceleration of the metabolism of toxic substances can be carried out by including in the diet foods with a high content of fiber and pectins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidant vitamins. The importance of the availability of special diets for all groups of the population living in industrially developed regions under conditions of aerogenic chemical load, including aromatic hydrocarbons, is shown to minimize the negative impact of human-made chemicals and prevent diseases caused by an increased level of atmospheric air pollution.
Young Adults’ Experience of Social (In)justice
Authors: Przybylska Ewa , Wajsprych Danuta
Published: February 2023

This article attempts to present the ways in which the phenomenon of social (in)justice is experienced by young adults from large urban areas. In the presented study, the category of (in)justice fulfils the function of a criterion for evaluating social relations as actually experienced, thus playing the role of a principle/template of an ethical and moral idea, being at the same time the effect of individual and community action. Based on the assumption that the experience of this phenomenon is continuous and strictly relational, it was assumed that the meanings given to (in)justice as a result of interlocutors’ personal experiences, allow an insight into the processes of assimilation of social order, identical to the phenomenon of lifelong learning. Consciously going beyond the methodological framework imposed by phenomenography, the Authors aim at understanding the rationality of participation in the social order, dominant in today’s Poland (and social justice is its dominant part), shaped as a result of negotiations between the learning subject and the external world.
Non-invasive telemonitoring and quality of life in heart failure: part one—developing a mixed-methods systematic review protocol
Authors: Tavares Sara , Morini Simone
Published: February 2023

Advances in technology and the social distancing measures implemented in 2020–21 have put remote monitoring and digital health initiatives in the limelight as promising strategies to reduce adverse events associated with chronic disease, while enhancing patient satisfaction. This article is the first in a two-part series, reporting on a mixed-methods systematic review, which sought to evaluate the effectiveness of non-invasive remote monitoring on quality of life among patients with chronic heart failure. As quality of life is a subjective concept regarding how individuals perceive their health status and satisfaction with life, a mixed-methods approach was deemed appropriate. The review questions were: is telemonitoring effective in improving quality of life among patients with chronic heart failure in the community, and how do these patients perceive and experience telemonitoring in terms of their quality of life? The mixed-methods review follows a convergent segregated approach, drawing evidence-based and credible recommendations for clinical practice and policy decision making. This article will describe the development of the review protocol.
The power of the lived experience: improving awareness of cardiovascular care for minority ethnic service users
Authors: Jones Lorna
Published: February 2023

In this month's BANCC column, Lorna Jones, head of nursing in urgent and emergency care at George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, reflects on her talk at the BANCC study day about her experience as a Black minority ethnic nurse in leadership.
Highlighting the latest research: January 2023
Authors: Palmer Sarah Jane
Published: February 2023

Sarah Jane Palmer presents a selection of recently published articles of interest to nurses working in cardiovascular nursing. The aim of this roundup is to provide a brief overview of the research papers selected. A full reference is provided for those who wish to look at the research in further detail
Small animal Review
Authors: Gough Alex
Published: February 2023

This issue's Small Animal Review features studies that seek to answer the long-standing question of the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in preclinical myxomatous mitral valve disease. Previous recommendations have suggested they are beneficial for use in dogs before they present with clinical signs, if cardiomegaly was present on radiographic or ultrasonographic examination. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are considered the highest form of evidence and they can be helpful in answering questions when single trials do not have sufficient power to be conclusive.samples in measuring exposure to aromatic amines.
It's time to define the pet homelessness crisis
Authors: Rowan Andrew
Published: February 2023

There have been few serious attempts to understand how many companion animals there are globally, let alone how many are left homeless. Accurate data are essential to manage and address any crisis, yet even our definition of what constitutes a ‘homeless’ companion animal has been unclear. If we are to address the pet homelessness crisis, we must first define it.
Otitis externa: a review
Authors: Neuber Ariane
Published: February 2023

Otitis, or inflammation of the pinna, ear canal and possible middle or internal ear structures, is a very common clinical presentation in dogs. Often patients with otitis suffer from recurrent disease. This can be very frustrating for the pet, owner and attending vet alike. It is important to adopt a logical approach to these cases to avoid a vicious cycle of otitis, treatment, temporary improvement and relapse. Numerous factors are part of the disease and it is crucial to identify and correct as many of these factors as possible.
La música tradicional en la formación del profesorado de música: una propuesta en el contexto chileno
Authors: Durán Bustamante Fabian , Casals Albert
Published: February 2023

La presencia de músicas tradicionales chilenas y latinoamericanas en la formación del profesorado de música en Chile se ha venido incrementando en los últimos años, de la mano de investigaciones sistematizadas y propuestas vinculadas principalmente al ámbito interpretativo. Esta incorporación es coherente con la documentación oficial de referencia en que se indica que los saberes en torno a las músicas tradicionales forman parte de las competencias necesarias para el futuro profesor de música. En este marco, el presente trabajo muestra una propuesta didáctica enfocada al desarrollo pedagógico de futuros maestros de música chilenos basada en las músicas tradicionales, pero explorando su potencialidad como repertorio para la creación. Para el diseño de esta propuesta, se han estudiado por un lado las músicas tradicionales desde un planteamiento etnomusicológico y, por el otro, se han buscado referentes en torno a improvisación y la composición en la formación musical y didáctica. El diseño resultante se ha discutido y consensuado con los docentes que implementarán dicha propuesta en tres universidades chilenas. Finalmente, ha sido sometida a un proceso de revisión y validación por parte de expertos. El artículo expone los elementos básicos de la propuesta (planteamiento y objetivos, secuencia, evaluación, materiales y orientaciones didácticas) y termina discutiendo las aportaciones de esta. Entre ellas, se destaca la necesidad de repensar el trabajo con músicas tradicionales en la formación del profesorado de forma que incluya los procesos de creación musical que le son propios.
Análisis comparativo entre profesores y estudiantes frente al uso de MOODLE en la Educación Superior en tiempos de pandemia
Authors: Hidalgo-Cajo Byron , Hidalgo-Cajo Iván , Mayacela-Alulema Angel , Hidalgo-Cajo Diego , Satán-Gunza Luis
Published: February 2023

La educación superior en tiempos de pandemia de COVID 19 provocó un cambio drástico en el proceso educativo reemplazando la modalidad presencial a un entorno totalmente virtual (eLearning) con sesiones sincrónicas y asincrónicas donde la telemática dio lugar a un entorno de conexión virtual entre los actores educativos. Desde esta perspectiva es importante identificar la aceptación y uso del LMS MOODLE en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje contrastando las diferentes hipótesis planteadas en función del modelo de aceptación de tecnologías (TAM) en los docentes y estudiantes. La metodología aplicada ha sido cuantitativa con un diseño de investigación experimental de campo cuasi-experimental descriptivo correlacional-causal, de recogida de datos transversal. El análisis de datos se realizó por medio de estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Los resultados tanto en profesores como en estudiantes son significativos superando la media en la autoevaluación en función de la aceptación y uso de MOODLE en el proceso enseñanza-aprendizaje mediante el TAM de manera unidimensional. Al analizar y contrastar las diferentes hipótesis planteadas se puede mencionar que los resultados son concluyentes al determinar que la variable externa competencia tecnológica se correlaciona con la utilidad, facilidad y el disfrute de uso percibido por parte del profesorado que también influyen positiva y significativamente en la actitud e intención de uso de MOODLE. Resultados similares se obtienen para los estudiantes con la diferencia de que la variable competencia tecnológica no se correlaciona con la dimensión disfrute percibido que tampoco influye en la actitud e intención de uso percibido de MOODLE. Por último, en la variable género no existen diferencias significativas en las dimensiones utilidad, facilidad y el disfrute de uso percibido lo cual no influye en la adopción y uso de la tecnología ni en profesores ni en estudiantes.
Exploring novel fluorine-rich fuberidazole derivatives as hypoxic cancer inhibitors: Design, synthesis, pharmacokinetics, molecular docking, and DFT evaluations
Authors: Taj Muhammad Babar , Raheel Ahmad , Ayub Rabia , Alnajeebi Afnan M. , Abualnaja Matokah , Habib Alaa Hamed , Alelwani Walla , Noor Sadia , Ullah Sami , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Simsek Rahime , Babteen Nouf Abubakr , Alshater Heba
Published: February 2023

Sixteen fuberidazole derivatives as potential new anticancer bioreductive prodrugs were prepared and characterized. The in vitro anticancer potential was examined to explore their cytotoxic properties by employing apoptosis, DNA damage, and proliferation tests on chosen hypoxic cancer cells. Eight substances (Compound5a, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5g, 5h, 5i,and5m) showed promising cytotoxicity values compared to the standard control. The potential of compounds was also examined through in silico studies (againsthuman serum albumin), including chem-informatics, to understand the structure-activity relationship (SAR), pharmacochemical strength, and the mode of interactions responsible for their action. The DFT calculations revealed that only the5bcompound showed the lowest ΔET (2.29 eV) while 5ishowed relatively highest βtot (69.89 x 10–31 esu), highest αave (3.18 x 10–23 esu), and dipole moment (6.49 Debye). This study presents a novel class of fuberidazole derivatives with selectivity toward hypoxic cancer cells.
COVID-19 stress syndrome in the German general population: Validation of a German version of the COVID Stress Scales
Authors: Jungmann Stefanie M. , Piefke Martina , Nin Vincent , Asmundson Gordon J. G. , Witthöft Michael
Published: February 2023

The COVID Stress Scales (CSS) are a new self-report instrument for multidimensional assessment of psychological stress in the context of the pandemic. The CSS have now been translated and validated in over 20 languages, but a validated German version has not yet been available. Therefore, the aim was to develop a German version of the CSS, to test its factor structure, reliability, and validity, and to compare it with international studies. In an online survey (08/2020–06/2021),N= 1774 individuals from the German general population (71.5% female; Mage= 41.2 years, SD = 14.2) completed the CSS as well as questionnaires on related constructs and psychopathology. After eight weeks, participants were asked to participate again for the purpose of calculating retest reliability (N= 806). For the German version, the 6-factor structure with good model fit (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation, RMSEA = 0.06) was confirmed, with the six subscales: Danger, Socio-Economic Consequences, Xenophobia, Contamination, Traumatic Stress, and Compulsive Checking. Internal consistencies ranged from ω = .82–.94 (except Compulsive Checking ω = .70), and retest reliability from rtt= .62–.82. Convergent and discriminant validity were confirmed for the German version. Related constructs such as health anxiety, general xenophobia, obsessive-compulsive behavior, and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms correlated moderately with the respective subscale and lower with the other scales. With anxiety and depression, Traumatic Stress showed the strongest correlation. Overall, there was a high degree of agreement in an international comparison. The CSS can help to identify pandemic-related psychological stress and to derive appropriate interventions.
Forecasting shipping index using CEEMD-PSO-BiLSTM model
Authors: Li Chengang , Wang Xuan , Hu Yongxiang , Yan Ying , Jin Han , Shang Guofei
Published: February 2023

Shipping indices are extremely volatile, non-stationary, unstructured and non-linear, and more difficult to forecast than other common financial time series. Based on the idea of "decomposition-reconstruction-integration", this article puts forward a combined forecasting model CEEMD-PSO-BiLSTM for shipping index, which overcomes the linearity limitation of traditional models. CEEMD is used to decompose the original sequence into several IMF components and RES sequences, and the IMF components are recombined by reconstruction. Each sub-sequence is predicted and analyzed by PSO-BiLSTM neural network, and finally the predicted value of the original sequence is obtained by summing up the predicted values of each sub-sequence. Using six major shipping indices in China’s shipping market such as FDI and BDI as test data, a systematic comparison test is conducted between the CEEMD-PSO-BiLSTM model and other mainstream time-series models in terms of forecasting effects. The results show that the model outperforms other models in all indicators, indicating its universality in different shipping markets. The research results of this article can deepen and improve the understanding of shipping indices, and also have important implications for risk management and decision management in the shipping market.
Electrophysiological evaluation of an anticancer drug gemcitabine on cardiotoxicity revealing down-regulation and modification of the activation gating properties in the human rapid delayed rectifier potassium channel
Authors: Wei Mengyan , Wang Pu , Zhu Xiufang , Morishima Masaki , Liu Yangong , Zheng Mingqi , Liu Gang , Osanai Hiroki , Yoshimura Kenshi , Kume Shinichiro , Kurokawa Tatsuki , Ono Katsushige
Published: February 2023

Gemcitabine is an antineoplastic drug commonly used in the treatment of several types of cancers including pancreatic cancer and non–small cell lung cancer. Although gemcitabine-induced cardiotoxicity is widely recognized, the exact mechanism of cardiac dysfunction causing arrhythmias remains unclear. The objective of this study was to electrophysiologically evaluate the proarrhythmic cardiotoxicity of gemcitabine focusing on the human rapid delayed rectifier potassium channel, hERG channel. In heterologous hERG expressing HEK293 cells (hERG-HEK cells), hERG channel current (IhERG) was reduced by gemcitabine when applied for 24 h but not immediately after the application. Gemcitabine modified the activation gating properties of the hERG channel toward the hyperpolarization direction, while inactivation, deactivation or reactivation gating properties were unaffected by gemcitabine. When gemcitabine was applied to hERG-HEK cells in combined with tunicamycin, an inhibitor of N-acetylglucosamine phosphotransferase, gemcitabine was unable to reduce IhERG or shift the activation properties toward the hyperpolarization direction. While a mannosidase I inhibitor kifunensine alone reduced IhERG and the reduction was even larger in combined with gemcitabine, kifunensine was without effect on IhERG when hERG-HEK cells were pretreated with gemcitabine for 24 h. In addition, gemcitabine down-regulated fluorescence intensity for hERG potassium channel protein in rat neonatal cardiomyocyte, although hERG mRNA was unchanged. Our results suggest the possible mechanism of arrhythmias caused by gemcitabine revealing a down-regulation of IhERG through the post-translational glycosylation disruption possibly at the early phase of hERG channel glycosylation in the endoplasmic reticulum that alters the electrical excitability of cells.
Factors associated with unskilled birth attendance among women in sub-Saharan Africa: A multivariate-geospatial analysis of demographic and health surveys
Authors: Addo Isaac Yeboah , Acquah Evelyn , Nyarko Samuel H. , Boateng Ebenezer N. K. , Dickson Kwamena Sekyi
Published: February 2023

Background

Several studies have shown that unskilled birth attendance is associated with maternal and neonatal morbidity, disability, and death in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, little evidence exists on prevailing geospatial variations and the factors underscoring the patterns of unskilled birth attendance in the region. This study analysed the geospatial disparities and factors associated with unskilled birth attendance in SSA.

Methods

The study is based on data from thirty (30) SSA countries captured in the latest (2010–2019) demographic and health surveys (DHS). A total of 200,736 women aged between 15–49 years were included in the study. Geospatial methods including spatial autocorrelation and hot spot analysis as well as logistic regression models were used to analyse the data.

Results

There were random spatial variations in unskilled birth attendance in SSA, with the main hotspot located in Chad, whereas South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo showed coldspots. Residence (urban or rural), wealth status, education, maternal age at the time of the survey and age at birth, desire for birth, occupation, media exposure, distance to a health facility, antenatal care visits, and deaths of under-five children showed significant associations with unskilled birth attendance.

Conclusion

Random geospatial disparities in unskilled birth attendance exist in SSA, coupled with various associated socio-demographic determinants. Specific geospatial hotspots of unskilled birth attendance in SSA can be targeted for specialised interventions to alleviate the prevailing disparities.
Low energy multiple blue light-emitting diode light Irradiation promotes melanin synthesis and induces DNA damage in B16F10 melanoma cells
Authors: Zhou Siqi , Yamada Ryusuke , Sakamoto Kazuichi
Published: February 2023

Visible light is present everywhere in our lives. Widespread use of computers and smartphones has increased the daily time spent in front of screens. What effect does this visible light have on us? Recent studies have shown that short-wavelength blue light (400-450nm) irradiation, similar to UV, inhibits the cell proliferation and differentiation, induces the intracellular oxidative stress, promotes the cell apoptosis and causes some other negative effects. However, it’s unusual that directly face to such short-wavelength and high-energy blue light in daily life. Therefore, the effects of blue light with longer wavelength (470nm), lower energy (1, 2 J/cm2) and multiple times (simulated daily use) exposure on cells have been studied in this experiment. In our results, low energy density multiple blue light inhibited cell proliferation and metastatic capability with a weak phototoxicity. Blue light also promoted intracellular reactive oxygen species and caused DNA damage. Furthermore, the melanin synthesis was also promoted by low energy density multiple blue light exposure. Together, these results indicate that longer wavelength and low energy density blue light multiple exposure is still harmful to our cells. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to screens likely induces dull skin through induction of melanin synthesis. These results further mentioned us should paid more attention to controlling the daily use of digital device.