bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inequalities for the Euclidean Operator Radius of n-Tuple Operators and Operator Matrices in Hilbert C∗-Modules
Authors: Rashid Mohammad H. M. , Salameh Wael Mahmoud Mohammad
Published: May 2024

This study takes a detailed look at various inequalities related to the Euclidean operator radius. It examines groups of n-tuple operators, studying how they add up and multiply together. It also uncovers a unique power inequality specific to the Euclidean operator radius. The research broadens its scope to analyze how n-tuple operators, when used as parts of 2×2 operator matrices, illustrate inequalities connected to the Euclidean operator radius. By using the Euclidean numerical radius and Euclidean operator norm for n-tuple operators, the study introduces a range of new inequalities. These inequalities not only set limits for the addition, multiplication, and Euclidean numerical radius of n-tuple operators but also help in establishing inequalities for the Euclidean operator radius. This process involves carefully examining the Euclidean numerical radius inequalities of 2×2 operator matrices with n-tuple operators. Additionally, a new inequality is derived, focusing specifically on the Euclidean operator norm of 2×2 operator matrices. Throughout, the research keeps circling back to the idea of finding and understanding symmetries in linear operators and matrices. The paper highlights the significance of symmetry in mathematics and its impact on various mathematical areas.
The Schwarzian Approach in Sturm–Liouville Problems
Authors: Vlahakis Nektarios
Published: May 2024

A novel method for finding the eigenvalues of a Sturm–Liouville problem is developed. Following the minimalist approach, the problem is transformed to a single first-order differential equation with appropriate boundary conditions. Although the resulting equation is nonlinear, its form allows us to find the general solution by adding a second part to a particular solution. This splitting of the general solution into two parts involves the Schwarzian derivative: hence, the name of the approach. The eigenvalues that correspond to acceptable solutions can be found by requiring the second part to correct the asymptotically diverging behavior of the particular solution. The method can be applied to many different areas of physics, such as the Schrödinger equation in quantum mechanics and stability problems in fluid dynamics. Examples are presented.
Bisphenol Chemicals in Surface Soil from E-Waste Dismantling Facilities and the Surrounding Areas: Spatial Distribution and Health Risk
Authors: Zhao Lei , Zhou Fengli , Wang Shuyue , Yang Yan , Chen Haojia , Ma Xufang , Liu Xiaotu
Published: May 2024

Electronic waste (e-waste) dismantling facilities are well-known bisphenol chemical (BP) sources. In this study, non-targeted screening combined with targeted analysis of BPs in surface soil from e-waste dismantling facilities and their surroundings revealed their presence, distribution, and exposure risk. A total of 14 BPs were identified including bisphenol A (BPA) and its novel structural analogs and halogenated BPs. The total concentrations of BPs ranged from 963 to 47,160 ng/g (median: 6970 ng/g) in e-waste soil, higher than those measured in surface soil from surrounding areas, i.e., 10–7750 ng/g (median 197 ng/g). BPA, tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), and bisphenol F (BPF) were the dominant ones from the two areas. Concentrations of TBBPA and its debromination product from the surrounding area significantly decreased with increasing distances from the e-waste dismantling facilities. Estimation of daily intake via oral ingestion of soil suggests that current contamination scenarios are unlikely to pose health risks for e-waste dismantling workers and adults and toddlers living in the surrounding areas, with their intakes generally well below the tolerable daily intakes proposed for several BPs. However, the BPA intakes of workers exceeded the more strict tolerable daily intake for BPA established recently, which merits continuous environmental surveillance.
Associations between PM2.5 Components and Mortality of Ischemic Stroke, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Diabetes in Beijing, China
Authors: Feng Hao , Yang Yisen , Ye Hong , Xu Jing , Zhao Meiduo , Jin Ye , Zhang Shuyang
Published: May 2024

Ischemic stroke (IS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes mellitus (DM) account for a large burden of premature deaths. However, few studies have investigated the associations between fine particular matter (PM2.5) components and mortality of IS, COPD and DM. We aimed to examine these associations in Beijing, China. Data on daily mortality, air pollutants and meteorological factors from 2008 to 2011 in Beijing were collected. Daily concentrations of five PM2.5 components, namely, sulfate ion (SO42−), ammonium ion (NH4+), nitrate ion (NO3−), organic matter (OM) and black carbon (BC), were obtained from the Tracking Air Pollution (TAP) database in China. The association between PM2.5 components and daily deaths was explored using a quasi-Poisson regression with the distributed lag nonlinear model (DLNM). The average daily concentrations of SO42−, NH4+, NO3−, OM and BC were 11.24, 8.37, 12.00, 17.34 and 3.32 μg/m3, respectively. After adjusting for temperature, relative humidity, pressure, particulate matter less than 10 μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2), an IQR increase in OM at lag day 2 and lag day 6 was associated with an increased DM mortality risk (RR 1.038; 95% CI: 1.005–1.071) and COPD mortality risk (RR 1.013; 95% CI: 1.001–1.026). An IQR increase in BC at lag day 0 and lag day 6 was associated with increased COPD mortality risk (RR 1.228; 95% CI: 1.017–1.48, RR 1.059; 95% CI: 1.001–1.121). Cumulative exposure to SO42− and NH4+ was associated with an increased mortality risk for IS, with the highest effect found for lag of 0–7 days (RR 1.085; 95% CI: 1.010–1.167, RR 1.083; 95% CI: 1.003–1.169). These effects varied by sex and age group. This study demonstrated associations of short-term exposure to PM2.5 components with increased risk of IS, COPD and DM mortality in the general population. Our study also highlighted susceptible subgroups.
A Modified Model for Quantitative Heavy Metal Source Apportionment and Pollution Pathway Identification
Authors: Wang Maodi , Yu Pengyue , Tong Zhenglong , Shao Xingyuan , Peng Jianwei , Hamid Yasir , Huang Ying
Published: May 2024

Current source apportionment models have successfully identified emission sources and quantified their contributions. However, when being utilized for heavy metal source apportion in soil, their accuracy needs to be improved, regarding migration patterns. Therefore, this work intended to improve the pre-existing principal component analysis and multiple linear regression with distance (PCA-MLRD) model to effectively locate pollution pathways (traffic emissions, irrigation water, atmospheric depositions, etc.) and achieve a more precise quantification. The dataset of soil heavy metals was collected from a typical area in the Chang-Zhu-Tan region, Hunan, China in 2021. The identification of the contribution of soil parent material was accomplished through enrichment factors and crustal reference elements. Meanwhile, the anthropogenic emission was identified with principal component analysis and GeoDetector. GeoDetector was used to accurately point to the pollution source from a spatial differentiation perspective. Subsequently, the pollution pathways linked to the identified sources were determined. Non-metal manufacturing factories were found to be significant anthropogenic sources of local soil contamination, mainly through rivers and atmospheric deposition. Furthermore, the influence of irrigation water on heavy metals showed a more pronounced effect within a distance of 1000 m, became weaker after that, and then gradually disappeared. This model may offer improved technical guidance for practical production and the management of soil heavy metal contamination.
Molecular Markers and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of Extraintestinal Pathogenic Escherichia coli from Camel Calves Including Colistin-Resistant and Hypermucoviscuous Strains
Authors: Sváb Domonkos , Somogyi Zoltán , Tóth István , Marina Joseph , Jose Shantymol V. , Jeeba John , Safna Anas , Juhász Judit , Nagy Péter , Abdelnassir Ahmed Mohamed Taha , Ismail Ahmed Abdelrhman , Makrai László
Published: May 2024

Extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) strains are capable of causing various systemic infections in both humans and animals. In this study, we isolated and characterized 30 E. coli strains from the parenchymatic organs and brains of young (<3 months of age) camel calves which died in septicemia. Six of the strains showed hypermucoviscous phenotype. Based on minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, seven of the strains were potentially multidrug resistant, with two additional showing colistin resistance. Four strains showed mixed pathotypes, as they carried characteristic virulence genes for intestinal pathotypes of E. coli: three strains carried cnf1, encoding cytotoxic necrotizing factor type 1, the key virulence gene of necrotoxigenic E. coli (NTEC), and one carried eae encoding intimin, the key virulence gene of enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC). An investigation of the integration sites of pathogenicity islands (PAIs) and the presence of prophage-related sequences showed that the strains carry diverse arrays of mobile genetic elements, which may contribute to their antimicrobial resistance and virulence patterns. Our work is the first to describe ExPEC strains from camels, and points to their veterinary pathogenic as well as zoonotic potential in this important domestic animal.
High-Frequency Recombination of Human Adenovirus in Children with Acute Respiratory Tract Infections in Beijing, China
Authors: Wang Fangming , De Ri , Han Zhenzhi , Xu Yanpeng , Zhu Runan , Sun Yu , Chen Dongmei , Zhou Yutong , Guo Qi , Qu Dong , Cao Ling , Liu Liying , Zhao Linqing
Published: May 2024

Recombination events in human adenovirus (HAdV) have led to some new highly pathogenic or infectious types. It is vital to monitor recombinant HAdVs, especially in children with acute respiratory tract infections (ARIs). In the retrospective study, HAdV positive specimens were collected from pediatric patients with ARIs during 2015 to 2021, then typed by sequence analysis of the penton base, hexon and fiber gene sequence. For those with inconsistent typing results, a modified method with species-specific primer sets of a fiber gene sequence was developed to distinguish co-infections of different types from recombinant HAdV infections. Then, plaque assays combined with meta-genomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) were used to reveal the HAdV genomic characteristics. There were 466 cases positive for HAdV DNA (2.89%, 466/16,097) and 350 (75.11%, 350/466) successfully typed with the most prevalent types HAdV-B3 (56.57%, 198/350) and HAdV-B7 (32.00%, 112/350), followed by HAdV-C1 (6.00%, 21/350). Among 35 cases (7.51%, 35/466) with inconsistent typing results, nine cases were confirmed as co-infections by different types of HAdVs, and 26 cases as recombinant HAdVs in six genetic patterns primarily clustered to species C (25 cases) in pattern 1–5, or species D (1 case) in pattern 6. The novel recombinant HAdV of species D was identified with multiple recombinant events among HAdV-D53, HAdV-D64, and HAdV-D8, and officially named as HAdV-D115. High-frequency recombination of HAdVs in six genetic recombination patterns were identified among children with ARIs in Beijing. Specifically, there is a novel Adenovirus D human/CHN/S8130/2023/115[P22H8F8] designed as HAdV D115.
Strain-Dependent Assessment of Powassan Virus Transmission to Ixodes scapularis Ticks
Authors: McMinn Rebekah J. , Gallichotte Emily N. , Courtney Samantha , Telford Sam R. , Ebel Gregory D.
Published: May 2024

Powassan virus (POWV) is an emerging tick-borne encephalitic virus in Lyme disease-endemic sites in North America. Due to range expansion and local intensification of blacklegged tick vector (Ixodes scapularis) populations in the northeastern and upper midwestern U.S., human encephalitis cases are increasingly being reported. A better understanding of the transmission cycle between POWV and ticks is required in order to better predict and understand their public health burden. Recent phylogeographic analyses of POWV have identified geographical structuring, with well-defined northeastern and midwestern clades of the lineage II subtype. The extent that geographic and genetically defined sublineages differ in their ability to infect and be transmitted by blacklegged ticks is unclear. Accordingly, we determined whether there are strain-dependent differences in the transmission of POWV to ticks at multiple life stages. Five recent, low-passage POWV isolates were used to measure aspects of vector competence, using viremic and artificial infection methods. Infection rates in experimental ticks remained consistent between all five isolates tested, resulting in a 12–20% infection rate and some differences in viral load. We confirm that these differences are likely not due to differences in host viremia. Our results demonstrate that blacklegged ticks are susceptible to, and capable of transmitting, all tested strains and suggest that the tick–virus association is stable across diverse viral genotypes.
Antimicrobial Peptide Reduces Cytotoxicity and Inflammation in Canine Epidermal Keratinocyte Progenitor Cells Induced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection
Authors: Hyun Jae-Eun , Hwang Cheol-Yong
Published: May 2024

The direct effects and antimicrobial activity of synthetic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) obtained from dogs, including cBD, cBD103, and cCath, against P. aeruginosa wild-type strain PAO1 and canine keratinocytes were analyzed. Antibacterial effects on planktonic bacteria were assessed by determining the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of AMPs and by a time-kill assay. Antibiofilm effects were assessed using the microtiter plate assay. We also evaluated the effects of AMPs on cell cytotoxicity and host immune response induced by stimulating canine epidermal keratinocyte progenitor (CPEK) cells with PAO1 and its LPS. cBD, cBD103, and cCath all exhibited dose-dependent antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects. In particular, 25 μg/mL cBD103 showed rapid bactericidal activity within 60 min and inhibited biofilm formation. In addition, pretreatment with cBD103 (25 µg/mL) and cCath (50 µg/mL) 1 h before stimulation significantly reduced the cytotoxicity of the CPEK cells by PAO1 and LPS-induced IL-6 and TNF-a expressions. cBD had little effect on the response to PAO1 and LPS in the cells. These results indicate the therapeutic potential of AMPs in P. aeruginosa skin infections. However, further studies on the mechanism of action of AMPs in keratinocytes and clinical trials are needed.
Thermal Comfort of Nelore Cattle (Bos indicus) Managed in Silvopastoral and Traditional Systems Associated with Rumination in a Humid Tropical Environment in the Eastern Amazon, Brazil
Authors: da Silva Welligton Conceição , da Silva Jamile Andréa Rodrigues , Martorano Lucieta Guerreiro , da Silva Éder Bruno Rebelo , de Carvalho Katarina Cardoso , Sousa Carlos Eduardo Lima , Neves Kedson Alessandri Lobo , Júnior Raimundo Nonato Colares Camargo , Belo Tatiane Silva , de Santos Ana Gizela Souza , Araújo Cláudio Vieira de , Joaquim Leonel António , Rodrigues Thomaz Cyro Guimarães de Carvalho , Lourenço-Júnior José de Brito
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the thermal comfort of Nelore cattle (Bos indicus) managed in silvopastoral and traditional systems associated with rumination behavior in a humid tropical environment in the Eastern Amazon, Brazil. The study was carried out on a rural property in Mojuí dos Campos, Pará, Brazil, during the transition period of the year, from June to July 2023. Over these two months, six consecutive data collection days were held. We selected 20 clinically healthy non-castrated male Nelore cattle, aged between 18 and 20 months, with an average weight of 250 kg and body condition score of 3.5 (1–5). These animals were randomly divided into two groups: traditional system (TS) and silvopastoral system (SS). The physiological variables evaluated included RR, RT and BST. The variables were analyzed using the linear mixed model. For agrometeorological variables, higher values were observed between 10:00 a.m. (33 °C) and 6:00 p.m. (30 °C), with the highest temperature observed at 4:00 p.m. (40 °C). The RR showed interactions (p = 0.0214) between systems and times; in general, higher RR were obtained in the Traditional. The animals’ RT showed no significant difference (p < 0.05) between the production systems, but there was a statistically significant difference in relation to the time of collection (p < 0.0001). In the BGHI, it was possible to observe that there was mild stress in the period from 22:00 at night to 6:00 in the morning and moderate stress in the period of greatest increase in temperature, from 10:00 in the morning to 18:00 at night. BST showed no statistical difference between the regions studied or between the SP (35.6 °C) and TS (36.25 °C) systems. RT in the TS showed a positive correlation with AT (r = 0.31507; p = 0.0477). RT in the SP showed a positive correlation with THI (r = 35583; p = 0.0242). On the other hand, RT in the SP (r = 0.42873; p = 0.0058) and ST (r = 0.51015; p = 0.0008) showed a positive correlation with BGHI. RR in the TS showed a positive correlation with BGHI (r = 0.44908; p = 0.0037). The greatest amounts of rumination were carried out by animals in the SP system, generally ruminating lying down (p < 0.05). With regard to rumination behavior in the morning and afternoon, there were higher numbers of WS and LD in the TS (p > 0.05). Most of the time, the cattle were LD during the morning and afternoon shifts, and at night and dawn they were WS in the TS. Therefore, the SP offers more thermal comfort advantages compared to the TS system.
A Novel Rotor Harmonic Winding Configuration for the Brushless Wound Rotor Synchronous Machine
Authors: Arif Farhan , Arif Arsalan , Ali Qasim , Hussain Asif , Imran Abid , Ullah Mukhtar , Khan Asif
Published: May 2024

In the last decade, permanent magnet (PM)-free or hybrid PM machines have been extensively researched to find an alternative for high cost rare-earth PM machines. Brushless wound rotor synchronous machines (BL-WRSMs) are one of the alternatives to these PM machines. BL-WRSMs have a lower torque density compared to PM machines. In this paper, a new topology is introduced to improve the torque producing capability of the existing BL-WRSM by utilizing the vacant spaces in the rotor slots. The new topology has two harmonic windings placed on the rotor which induce separate currents. A capacitor is used between the two harmonic windings to bring the currents in phase with each other. The harmonic winding currents are fed to the rectifier which is also placed on the rotor. Due to additional harmonic winding, the overall field current fed to the rotor field winding has been increased and hence the average torque has also increased. Finite element analysis (FEA)-based simulations are performed using ANSYS Maxwell to validate the proposed topology. The results show that the average torque of the machine has been significantly increased compared to the reference model. The detailed comparison results are provided in this paper.
Social Support and Mental Well-Being of Newcomer Women and Children Living in Canada: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hirani Saima , Shah Zara , Dubicki Theresa Claire , Bandara Nilanga Aki
Published: May 2024

Newcomer women and children are less likely to access and utilize mental health support services as compared to the general Canadian population, despite reporting experiences of mental health issues. This review aimed to map out the social support interventions that are available for promoting the mental well-being of newcomer women and children living in Canada. A search using Medline, Cumulative Index for Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane library was conducted to identify published studies. Studies were screened, extracted, and synthesized by two independent reviewers in line with the methodological approach for scoping reviews. Fourteen articles published in English between 2012–2023 were reviewed. Results identified five types of interventions: art and sand play interventions, support groups and workshops, assessment of existing support services, social media interventions, and short-term cognitive behavioral therapy. Our results suggest that culturally appropriate social support interventions increase mental well-being outcomes, such as self-esteem and social support, and reduce peri-migratory traumas for newcomer women and children in Canada. However, findings from this review underscore the need for more quantitative and participatory research approaches so that newcomer women’s and children’s needs are adequately explored and addressed.
Experience in the Treatment of Heart Failure as Manifestations of Cardiotoxicity of Chemotherapy in Cancer Patients
Authors:   S.M. Kirov Military Medical Academy, Koltsov A.V. , Tyrenko V.V.
Published: May 2024

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of morpholinium-methyl-triazolyl-thioacetate (thiotriazoline) in the treatment of heart failure as manifestations of cardiotoxicity of chemotherapy in patients with lymphomas. Material and methods. 54 patients with lymphomas were examined against the background of course antitumor therapy. All patients underwent a standard examination (physical examination, laboratory tests, including Nt-proBNP, troponin I, electrocardiogram, echocardiography). In case of detection of symptoms of heart failure (n = 21), thiotriazoline was administered intravenously with further transition to tablet form. Results. Signs of heart failure (shortness of breath, edema, positive water balance, increased Nt-proBNP levels) were recorded in 35 (64.8%) patients. According to the results of the control echocardiography, no significant changes in cardiac hemodynamics were detected. Daily assessment of hemodynamic parameters with an assessment of the severity of dyspnea and edema, allowed to verify the initial manifestations of cardiotoxicity by laboratory methods at the initial stages. The use of thiotriazoline allowed to normalize the level of Nt-proBNP and prevent further deterioration of the clinical picture of HF. Conclusion. The use of thiotriazoline makes it possible to prevent and slow down the processes of the cardiovascular continuum, leading to the occurrence of heart failure or decompensation of existing HF in patients receiving treatment for oncological diseases.
Methodology for Assessing the Risk of Bladder Cancer in Employees of the Marine Industry Working with Harmful and Dangerous Cargo
Authors:   Admiral F.F. Ushakov State Maritime University, Leonov M.G. , Ostroverkh L.S. , Selifonova Zh.P. ,   Kuban State Medical University,   N.N. Petrov National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Belyaeva S.A.
Published: May 2024

Prolonged professional contact with oil and its processed products can cause the development of malignant neoplasms of the bladder, skin, larynx, nasal cavity, etc. In their professional activities, these carcinogens are encountered by workers of the oil production, oil refining industry, transshipment complexes and port terminals, members of the crews of the oil fleet and floating drilling rigs. The creation of scientifically-based approaches to risk assessment and early diagnosis of malignant neoplasms caused by exposure to harmful occupational factors provides the necessary information for management, long-term planning and evaluation of the effectiveness of therapeutic and preventive measures that contribute to the improvement of oncological care for this category of patients.
What Do We Know About the Nutritional Status of a Patient with Primary Biliary Cholangitis?
Authors:   A.S. Loginov Moscow Clinical Scientific Center, Timoshchenko A.V. , Vinnitskaya E.V. , Kuzmina T.N.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of the article is to summarize modern ideas about the importance of nutritional status of patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and to draw attention to need of assessment and correction of malnutrition in this patient category. Nutritional disorder of patients with PBC affects prognosis and quality of life. Already at an early stage, the development of energy deficiency, activation of compensatory mechanisms for obtaining energy from fatty acids and amino acids of the somatic pool of proteins with progressive loss of body weight are observed. Violation of bile secretion processes leads to the development of maldigestion and malabsorption, vitamin and mineral deficiency. In turn, insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals causes hypovitaminosis, disturbances in the metabolism of microelements, in particular calcium, the development of osteopenia and osteoporosis. The progressive development of liver failure reduces the protein-synthetic function of the liver, leading to a deficiency of the visceral protein pool and progressive protein deficiency and sarcopenia. Thus, nutritional disorder directly affects the course of disease, response to therapy and prognosis of the disease, which determines the need of assessment and correction of nutritional status during the observation and treatment of patients with PBC.
Pathogenetic Therapy of Chronic Diarrhea in Patients with Small Bowel Resection
Authors:   A.S. Loginov Moscow Clinical Scientific Center, Moscow, Indeykina L.Kh. , Sabelnikova E.A. , Kuzmina T.N. , Silvestrova S.Yu. , Makarova A.A. , Pavlov M.B. , Parfenov A.I. ,   Research Institute of Healthcare Organization and Medical Management of the Moscow Health Department,   Russian University of Medicine, Moscow
Published: May 2024

A clinical case of the observation of a patient with chronic diarrhea, occurred after a resection of the small intestine with an ileoileal anastomosis, is described further. The resection of the small intestine, including the ileum, where the conversion and reabsorption of bile acids (BA) usually occur, leads to their excessive influx into the large intestine, causing chologenic diarrhea. The increased amount of BA has a detrimental effect on the activity of the intestinal microbiota in the anatomically altered intestine and can cause the biliary insufficiency. The exclusion of the ileocecal zone, especially the Bauhinia valve, from the passage of chyme, disrupts the motor activity of the large intestine, reduces water and ion absorption, and promotes regurgitation of intestinal contents from the cecum into the small intestine. Difficulties in identifying the chologenic factor in the development of diarrhea are exacerbated by the lack of available diagnostic methods. Identification of individual pathogenetically significant factors contributing to the development of diarrhea syndrome and their adequate therapeutic correction is the key to successful rehabilitation of patients with post-resection short bowel syndrome.
Diagnostic Utility of Serum IgG4 Determination in the Differential Diagnosis of Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors:   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow University (Sechenov University), Guseva A.K. , Okhlobystin A.V.
Published: May 2024

The aim: to determine the cut-off levels of serum IgG. IgG4 and IgG4/IgG ratio for the differential diagnosis of IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. Material and methods. We conducted a single-center study of 32 and 67 patients with IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. which were verified according to HISORt and EASL criteria. respectively. Patients underwent determination of total IgG and IgG4 in serum by enzyme immunoassay. and the IgG4/IgG ratio was calculated before the initiation of glucocorticoid therapy. The reference values for IgG were 7–16 g/L and for IgG4 ≤ 1.35 g/L. ROC-analysis was used to determine the cut-off values of serum IgG. IgG4. IgG4/IgG ratio for differential diagnosis between primary sclerosing cholangitis and IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis. Results. The mean age at diagnosis of IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis was 59 ± 13 years and primary sclerosing cholangitis was 41 ± 20 years (p < 0.001). IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis was initially misdiagnosed as primary sclerosing cholangitis in 41.2% of patients (95% CI 24.6–59.3). The median time before diagnosis of IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis was 10.5 months. The median serum IgG4 level was 2.7 g/L [1.92; 6.48] in patients with IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis and 0.6 g/L [0.60; 1.45] in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. 33% of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis had blood IgG4 levels exceeded 1.35 g/L. Whereas among patients with IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis. 19.4% had normal values of this parameter. The cut-off values of serum IgG and IgG4 and IgG4/IgG ratios for distinguishing primary sclerosing cholangitis from IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis were 17.1 g/L (sensitivity 75.0% and specificity 72.4%). 1.99 g/L (sensitivity 92.3% and specificity 74.2%). and 0.11 (sensitivity 84.2% and specificity 64.3%). respectively. Conclusions. The cut-off values of IgG. IgG4 concentration and IgG4/IgG ratio in serum can be used for differential diagnosis of primary sclerosing cholangitis and IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis.
Effect of Lanthanum Carbonate on Serum Phosphate, Oxidative Stress, and Vascular Dysfunction in CKD
Authors: Jovanovich Anna , Struemph Taylor , You Zhiying , Wang Wei , Farmer-Bailey Heather , Bispham Nina , Levi Moshe , Schwartz Gregory G. , Nowak Kristen L. , Chonchol Michel
Published: May 2024

Key Points

A key mechanism contributing to vascular dysfunction in CKD is increased oxidative stress.

Lanthanum carbonate did not discernibly affect vascular endothelial function, arterial stiffness, or markers of endothelial oxidative stress.

Background

Vascular endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffness are common in CKD and independently predict cardiovascular disease. Elevated serum phosphorus, even within the normal range, associates with cardiovascular disease and mortality in CKD. Excess phosphorus may increase oxidative stress leading to vascular dysfunction.

Methods

This is a randomized double-blind trial in which we compared lanthanum carbonate, a noncalcium phosphate binder, with placebo on vascular function and endothelial and circulating measures of oxidative stress and inflammation in 54 participants with CKD 3b–4 and normal phosphorus levels. Primary end points were change in brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMDBA) and carotid-to-femoral pulse-wave velocity (cfPWV) at 12 weeks. Mechanistic end points were changes from baseline in FMDBA after ascorbic acid infusion and circulating and endothelial markers of oxidative stress and inflammation.

Results

The age was 65±8 years and eGFR was 38±14 ml/min per 1.73 m2. At 12 weeks, serum phosphorus did not change with lanthanum (3.44±0.47 versus 3.44±0.52 mg/dl; P = 0.94) but tended to increase with placebo (3.42±0.80 versus 3.74±1.26 mg/dl; P = 0.09). FMDBA and cfPWV did not change from baseline in either group: FMDBA lanthanum 3.13%±2.87% to 2.73%±2.48% versus placebo 3.74%±2.86% to 3.09%±2.49% (P = 0.67); CfPWV lanthanum 1214±394 to 1216±322 cm/s versus placebo 993±289 to 977±254 cm/s (P = 0.77). Ascorbic acid infusion to inhibit oxidative stress did not differentially affect FMDBA. Circulating and endothelial markers of oxidative stress and inflammation did not differ between groups.

Conclusions

Lanthanum carbonate did not discernibly affect vascular endothelial function, arterial stiffness, or markers of endothelial oxidative stress among participants with CKD 3b–4 and normophosphatemia.
Consumo sostenible en alimentos: estrategias para las generaciones X, Y y Z
Authors: Roge Rosa María Nava , Bencomo Myrna Isela García , Fierro Juan Óscar Ollivier , Sánchez Brenda Guadalupe Burciaga
Published: May 2024

El tema de consumo sostenible ha cobrado importancia en los últimos años, por incluirse en los objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible. Sin embargo, en México poco se ha hecho para incluir este tipo de consumo en la vida diaria. El objetivo de esta investigación es analizar el comportamiento sobre consumo sostenible de alimentos en la generación X, Y y Z en una ciudad del centro de México, para el desarrollo de estrategias específicas de concientización que aliente a realizar compras inteligentes, preferentemente de productos sostenibles. Se encuestaron a 337 personas entre 18 y 50 años, utilizando un instrumento que toma como base la Teoría del Comportamiento Planificado. Calculando las ecuaciones de regresión para cada generación, se determinaron las variables que más contribuyen a la varianza explicada del consumo sostenible en alimentos: para la generación X la intención de compra y actitud del consumidor, para la generación Y el estilo de vida y la intención de compra y para la generación Z las normas subjetivas. Se propone concientizar a la generación X sobre las consecuencias de actuar con sostenibilidad para el futuro de sus hijos; con la generación Y se deberán realizar acciones para que sientan que son parte de la solución, cambiando los hábitos de consumo; y para la generación Z se sugiere empoderarlos para que sean agentes de cambio en su entorno.
Enhancing instrumental sustainability: a spectrophotometric approach for quantifying iodate in nutritionally significant salts through the adaptation of the classical iodometry method
Authors: Cruz Vanessa Gomes Furtado da , Dias Thiago Silva , Barboza Rodolfo Santos
Published: May 2024

With the primary objective of transitioning from the classical iodometric method to an instrumental approach, preserving precision in the analytical process, this study presents the development of a spectrophotometric method for quantifying iodate (iodine equivalent) in nutritionally significant salts. Therefore, the wavelengths of maximum absorption of the I3- (350.8 nm) and I3-starch (574.1 nm) complexes were determined. The complexes demonstrated stability, as indicated by the respective molar extinction coefficient values (ε) obtained over the course of the reaction time (measured up to 1h, at 5-minute intervals, and at 28°C), for concentrations ranging from 7.81×10-6 to 1.25×10-4 mols/L of KIO3. A linear correlation between concentration and absorbance was established within the specified concentration range, with detection and quantification limits defined as 0.09 and 0.29 mg/L (350.8 nm) and 0.13 and 0.39 mg/L (574.1 nm), respectively, and calculated recovery of 102.9%. The reproducibility of the method was assessed by varying the analyst, the equipment, and the analysis day. Using the developed method, it became feasible to quantify the elemental iodine equivalent in three commercially available salts commonly employed for food purposes. When compared to the classical/traditional iodometric method, the spectrophotometric method for quantifying iodate in salts showcases sustainability with minimized solvent and reagent usage, reduced waste generation, shorter analysis time, and lower sample requirements, aligning with environmentally conscious analytical practices.
Acute adrenal insufficiency and infectious-toxic shock as direct causes of death in meningococcal infection
Authors:   Military Medical Academy named after S. M. Kirov, Nalivkina N. A. , Chirsky V. S. ,   Military Medical Academy named after S. M. Kirov, Kovalenko A. N. ,   Military Medical Academy named after S. M. Kirov, Khairutdinova R. A. ,   Military Medical Academy named after S. M. Kirov, Shabalina A. Yu ,   Military Medical Academy named after S. M. Kirov
Published: May 2024

The purpose of the work is to clarify the criteria for the diagnosis of acute adrenal insufficiency and infectious-toxic shock as the direct causes of death in meningococcal infection. The study is based on a clinical and morphological analysis of 27 archival cases of fatal outcomes of patients with meningococcal infection. Histological examination of the archival preparations stained with hematoxylin and eosin was carried out. The specific volume of capillaries in the lungs, hemorrhages in the medullary and cortical substance of the adrenal glands, necrosis in the cortical and medullary layer of the adrenal glands, as well as preserved adrenal cells were studied quantitatively. According to the results of the study, in Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome, hemorrhages involving more than 1/3 of the adrenal cortex lead to fatal cases. In meningococcal infection with the development of infectious-toxic shock, capillaries occupy more than ½ of the volume of the interalveolar septa of the lung. The analysis of specific volumes of hemorrhages in the cortical substance of the adrenal glands and capillaries in the interalveolar septa of the lungs can be used during clinical and anatomical analysis for differential diagnosis of Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome and infectious-toxic shock.
Conflict parataxis in modern prose
Authors:   Cherepovets State University, Soloveva S. A.
Published: May 2024

Based on the material of modern postmodern prose, the article examines syntactic constructions with conflict parataxis, the conflicting nature of which is created by the internal semantic inconsistency of the components, fragmentation, abruptness, rearrangement of fragments into parallel groups. They include structures of a simple sentence with homogeneous members, complex sentences with parallel subordination and a complex syntactic whole. The process of their structuring correlates with the principles of cognitive processing of objective reality by human consciousness. The diversity of the analyzed structures in terms of lexical-semantic content, valence properties of components, their order forms communicative-pragmatic homogeneity and conflict semantics. The non-prototypicality of constructions with conflict parataxis expands their pragmatic potential, which is demonstrated in fragments of the prose of B. Pasternak, as well as V. Pelevin, T. Tolstoy, Z. Prilepin. Structuring a parataxic series on the basis of some commonality (common seme, mode of expression, function, pretext, historical context) creates a sense of homogeneity in the reader's mind and creates conditions for variable interpretations. The diversity of the analyzed structures in terms of lexico-semantic content, valence properties of the components of the series, the order of their arrangement allow us to speak of a special type of communicative-pragmatic homogeneity of the components of the paratactic series. The analysis of the presented material leads to the conclusion that the conflict parataxis in modern postmodern prose is one of the productive methods that create its simultaneity, fragmentation, and discursiveness.
On accommodating structures and more
Authors: Konyushkevich M. I.
Published: May 2024

The grammatical descriptions of Russian relatively extended compound sentences with an accommodating meaning are analysed, their characteristics in the existing literature are specified. The specificity of the syntactic connection in such sentences is considered on the basis of three components – the content of the main part, the relative чтоand its syntactical position in the subordinatepart. It has been found that the syntaxemic connection between these components is multi-layered and asymmetric, and its regulator is the чтоrelative, which serves as a tool, on the one hand, having semantic breadth to accommodate multiple and diverse content, and on the other hand, having grammatical flexibility to embed the contained meaningful volume into the position of any participant in a typical situation, named in the subordinate part. By its anaphoric and accommodating meaning, the relative что is an indicator of the case relation of the predicate unit, i.e. a kind of “inflection” of the main part, to the same extent as the correlative pronoun то acts as an “inflection” of the subordinate part in the accommodating constructions, with the difference that relative что is anaphoric and refers to the already named antecedent, whereas то is cataphoric and its accommodating meaning is directed to the harbinger, the postcedent. For the denotative level of a compound sentence, it is important what syntaxemes the correlativeand relative pronouns are, what relations they form and in what combinations they form the staple that connects the parts of a compound sentence together. A part of the inventory of staples in relatively extended sentences is demonstrated and the ways in which they are formed and replenishment in the Russian language are shown.
Morphological, syntactic and semantic nature of agreement in Russian
Authors:   Institute of Philology, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kim I. E. ,   Novosibirsk State University
Published: May 2024

The article is concerned with the description of morphological, syntactic and semantic principles of agreement in the Russian language. Among the features of agreement described in the scientific literature, there are at least three that are contradicted by the facts of agreement in modern speech practice: 1) agreement is a syntactic connection that operates within a phrase or a simple sentence; 2) the syntactic connection of agreement is subordinate, one of the components in it is the dominant noun; 3) the direction of dependence is determined by the structural principle “from the main to the dependent”. The first feature is contradicted by the fact that there is an agreement between the anaphoric pronoun and its antecedent, which can be located in different parts of a complex sentence or even in different sentences. The obligatory nature of the second and third features is questioned with the onset of the active phase of the destruction of the case system in the Russian language. The “weakening of the case function” of the Russian noun (M. Glovinskaya) led to the fact that the connection of government is established not with the dependent noun, but with the component of the governed syntactic group that is closest to the verb or other controlling word. In this case, the nearest word is put into the required case form. Such a word can be a noun with a homonymous case form in a coordinative word-combination, with which a noun with non-homonymous cases randomly agrees, for example: Net docheri(Gen./Dat./Loc. case) i *sestre(instead of sestry) ‘There are not the daughter and the sister’. The closest word can be an adjective with a homonymous case form, and a noun with non-homonymous case forms randomly agrees in case with the adjective, for example: Net moiei(Gen./Dat./Instr./Loc. case) *sestre(instead of sestry) ‘There is not my sister’. We propose to call this type of agreement linear or probabilistic agreement.
KONYA İLİ MERKEZİNDE 40 YAŞ ÜSTÜ BİREYLERİN BİRİNCİ BASAMAK SAĞLIK KURULUŞU KULLANIMLARI
Authors: Demir Lütfi Saltuk , Kasapoğlu Enes , İyianlar Beyza , Demir Gizem Sena
Published: May 2024

Birinci basamak sağlık hizmetleri ayaktan tedavi hizmetinin verildiği sağlık hizmetidir. Etkin birinci basamak sağlık hizmeti hastaların %85’inin ihtiyacını karşılayabilmektedir. Hastaların sunulan hizmetten memnuniyetleri de sağlık hizmeti kullanımlarını etkilemektedir. Bu çalışmada Konya ilinde yaşayan 40 yaş ve üzeri bireylerin; birinci basamak sağlık kuruluşu kullanım durumlarının belirlenmesi, aile hekimlerinden memnuniyet düzeylerinin belirlenmesi, aile sağlığı merkezlerinden (ASM) aldıkları hizmetten memnuniyetlerinin sağlık ocağı döneminde aldıkları hizmetten memnuniyetleriyle karşılaştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Katılımcıların %37,0’si herhangi bir sağlık sorunu olduğunda ilk olarak ASM’ye başvuracağını belirtti. Katılımcıların %76,8’i son bir yıl içinde ASM’ye başvurduğunu belirtti. En sık ASM başvuru amacının %52,4 ile muayene olduğu belirlendi. Katılımcıların %50,7’si ASM’lerden aldığı hizmetin geçmişte sağlık ocaklarından aldığı hizmetten daha iyi olduğunu belirtti. İlk başvuruda ASM tercih edenlerin memnuniyet düzeyleri daha yüksek bulundu (p
Doğa Sporu Katılımcılarının Macera Davranışı Arama, Merak ve Keşfetme ile Psikolojik İyi Oluş Düzeylerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: Avşar Reyhan , Güzel Gürbüz Pınar
Published: May 2024

Araştırma Türkiye’de lisanslı ya da lisanssız 18 yaş ve üzeri doğa sporları ile ilgilenen bireylerle yapılmıştır. 118’ i kadın 204’ ü erkek toplam 322 kişiden oluşturmaktadır. Nicel araştırma yöntemi ile tasarlanmış, verilerin toplanmasında; kişisel bilgi formu, Merak ve Keşfetme Ölçeği II, Macera Davranışı Arama Ölçeği ve Psikolojik İyi Oluş Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Independent T testi, One Way Anova testi, Korelasyon analizi ve Regresyon testi kullanılmıştır.
Doğa sporu katılımcılarının macera davranışı arayışı ile merak ve keşfetme eğilimi cinsiyet, medeni durum, lisanslı sporcu olma ve eğitim durumu değişkeni açısından anlamlı bir farklılık göstermektedir.
Doğa sporu katılımcılarının macera davranışı arayışının merak ve keşfetme eğilimi ve alt boyutları ile psikolojik iyi oluş durumları arasında pozitif yönlü orta ve düşük düzeyli anlamlı ilişki tespit edilmiştir. Rekreatif amaçlı doğa sporlarına katılan bireylerin macera davranışı arayışı, merak ve keşfetme eğilimi ve psikolojik iyi oluş düzeyleri incelenmiş ve birbirleri üzerinde anlamlı etkileri olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
Cost-Effectiveness of the Prenatal Detection of Congenital Heart Diseases: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Londoño Trujillo Darío , Castro García Paula A. , Rojas López Kristian K. , Moreno-Medina Karen J. , Dominguez Torres María T. , Dennis Verano Rodolfo J. , Sandoval Reyes Nestor F.
Published: May 2024

Background: Congenital heart disease is the most common congenital condition worldwide, with a prevalence of 80 cases per 10 000 live births. In addition to perinatal morbidity and mortality, it entails long-term consequences such as multiple surgeries, prolonged hospitalizations, lifelong cardiac follow-up, reduced quality of life, risk of heart failure, and premature mortality in adulthood. This significant health and economic burden on healthcare systems and families highlights the relevance of evaluating the cost-effectiveness of methods for early detection of this condition.

Objective: To conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify and analyze existing economic evaluations on prenatal detection of congenital heart diseases through ultrasound, focusing on the reported cost-effectiveness results and the methodological quality of the evaluated studies according to established criteria.

Methods: An SLR of economic evaluations was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A quantitative synthesis of key methodological components of each economic evaluation was performed. The incremental medical costs, effectiveness measures, and cost-effectiveness ratios reported in each study were compiled and compared. The methodological quality was assessed according to compliance with the 24 CHEERS criteria.

Results: We found 785 articles, of which only 7 met all inclusion criteria. Most were cost-effectiveness analyses, with the most common outcome being number of cases detected. Screening with only 4-chamber views interpreted by general practitioners or cardiologists were dominant strategies compared with screening with 4-chamber plus outflow views interpreted by a general practitioner. Fetal echocardiography was most effective but most expensive. Screening with 4-chamber and outflow view, followed by referral to a specialist, were recommended as the least expensive strategy per defect detected. On average, articles met 17 of the 24 CHEERS criteria.

Discussion: While recent cost-effectiveness analyses demonstrated improved methodological quality, there was a lack of homogeneity due to differences in comparators and population subgroups analyzed. Despite this heterogeneity, fetal ultrasonography screening was consistently identified as a cost-effective strategy, with its cost-effectiveness heavily influenced by the expertise of the interpreting physician.

Conclusion: Most studies recommend implementing obstetric ultrasonography screening, without routine fetal echocardiography, for detecting congenital heart diseases.