bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low temperature and mTOR inhibition favor stem cell maintenance in human keratinocyte cultures
Authors: Nanba Daisuke , Sakabe Jun‐Ichi , Mosig Johannes , Brouard Michel , Toki Fujio , Shimokawa Mariko , Kamiya Mako , Braschler Thomas , Azzabi Fahd , Droz‐Georget Lathion Stéphanie , Johnsson Kai , Roy Keya , Schmid Christoph D , Bureau Jean‐Baptiste , Rochat Ariane , Barrandon Yann
Published: May 2023

Adult autologous human epidermal stem cells can be extensively expanded ex vivo for cell and gene therapy. Identifying the mechanisms involved in stem cell maintenance and defining culture conditions to maintain stemness is critical, because an inadequate environment can result in the rapid conversion of stem cells into progenitors/transient amplifying cells (clonal conversion), with deleterious consequences on the quality of the transplants and their ability to engraft. Here, we demonstrate that cultured human epidermal stem cells respond to a small drop in temperature through thermoTRP channels via mTOR signaling. Exposure of cells to rapamycin or a small drop in temperature induces the nuclear translocation of mTOR with an impact on gene expression. We also demonstrate by single‐cell analysis that long‐term inhibition of mTORC1 reduces clonal conversion and favors the maintenance of stemness. Taken together, our results demonstrate that human keratinocyte stem cells can adapt to environmental changes (e.g., small variations in temperature) through mTOR signaling and constant inhibition of mTORC1 favors stem cell maintenance, a finding of high importance for regenerative medicine applications.
Modeling assessment of power consumption efficiency at iron ore mining enterprises
Authors: Sinchuk Oleg N. , Kobeliatskyi Danyil V.
Published: May 2023

Today's world requires controlling the process of power consumption and supply. The control system should respond proactively and preventively to external disturbances. Among such disturbances for iron ore mining enterprises, the most significant are changes in the technology of operating modes of stationary power receivers, taking into account power costs. General methodological approaches to forming models that relate power consumption indices for a given volume of ore mass mined are investigated. Methods of formalizing components of the power system of iron ore mining enterprises engaged in underground mining of iron ore raw materials are under study. Methods for building a mathematical model of optimal power consumption efficiency are studied. The synthesized model makes it possible to determine the mode of operation required to mine a given amount of ore mass, while minimizing the cost of power consumption. A target function is built considering the cost of power consumed by an iron ore underground mining enterprise. Minimization of the power consumption cost is formed as a task of reducing the functional in terms of the active power consumed at a certain period of time. The proposed solution is limited to the condition that the cost of active power is time dependent, i.e. it is a piecewise-constant function. As a result, the power cost is given by a piecewise-constant function with two values. A qualitative graphical representation of the considered time dependence of the active power cost is presented. Based on visual and graphical analysis, an analytical function of the active power cost according to time of day is formed.
Algorithm for the route’sformation of food raw materials procure-ment on the community territory taking into account the production conditions during emergency situations
Authors: Тryhuba Аnatoliy M. , Koval Nazarii Ya. , Ratushnyi Andrii R. , Тryhuba Inna L. , Shevchuk Victor V.
Published: May 2023

The article concerns the improvement of the ACO (Ant Colony Optimization) ant colony optimization algorithm for the formationof routes of vehicles for the procurement of food raw materials on the territory of the community during emergencies. The purpose of the study is to improve the algorithm for the formation of routes of vehicles for the procurement of food raw materials on the territory of the community during emergencies. The proposed algorithm is based on the classical algorithm of ant colony optimization ACO and, unlike it, takes into account real production conditions during emergencies. The task of the research is to create an algorithm for the formation of effective routes of vehicles for the procurement of food raw materials in the territory of the community during emergencies, as well as its comparison with the classic ACO algorithm for solving various problems of route formation. It was established that the use of the classic algorithm for the optimization of ant colonies ACO, or its known modernizations, does not provide a high-quality solution to the problem of forming routes of vehicles for harvesting food raw materials on the territory of the community during emergencies.This is due to incomplete consideration of specific production conditions. The improved route formation algorithm involves 8 steps and is based on the classic ACO algorithm. In contrast to it, it takes into account real production conditions (damaged sections of the roadway,the presence of partial passage of vehicles, traffic jams caused by an emergency, etc.). The rule of the classic ACO algorithm regarding the selection of the next point in the route using the probabilistic-proportional transition of the k-th ant from the i-th to the j-th node (farm producing food raw materials) is proposed, replaced by one that takes into account the state of production conditions (road surface) be-tween individual nodes. This ensures an increase in accuracy and a decrease in the duration of route formation, as well as an increase in the quality of making appropriate management decisions. The obtained results regarding the comparison of the use of algorithms when solving transport problems with a different number of vertices indicate that the proposed algorithm provides a deviation of the total path in the route, which does not exceed 1%. The proposed algorithm reduces the decision-making time by up to 6% in the presence of up to 50 units of vertices, and by 12...15% in the presence of vertices from 51 to 100 units. The improved vehicle routing algorithm can be used in decision-making support systems to plan the procurement of food raw materials on the territory of the community during emer-gencies, which will increase their efficiency.
Investigation of reconfigurable hardware platformsfor 5Gprotocol stack functions acceleration
Authors: Melnyk Viktor A. , Hamolia Vladyslav V.
Published: May 2023

Open RAN and 5G are two key technologies designed to qualitatively improve network infrastructure and provide greater flex-ibility and efficiency to mobile operators and users. 5G creates new capabilities for high-speed Internet, Internet of Things, telemedi-cine and many other applications, while Open RAN enables open and standardized network architectures, which reduces cost and risk for operators and promotes innovations. Given the growing number of users and data volumes, the purely software implementa-tion of certain functions of the 5G protocol, and especially computationally complex ones, requires significant computer resources and energy.These, for example, arelow-density parity-check (LDPC)coding,FFTandiFFT algorithms on physical (PHY)layer, and NEA and NIA security algorithms on Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP)layer. Therefore, one of the activity areas in the development of means for 5G systems isthe hardware acceleration of such functions execution, which provides the possibility of processing large volumes of data in real time and with high efficiency. The high-performance hardware basis for implementing these functions today is field-programmable gate array(FPGA)integrated circuits.Along with this, the efficiency of the 5G protocol stack functions hardware acceleration depends significantly on the size of the data packets transmitted to the hardware accelerator. As ex-perience shows, for certain types of architecture of computer systems with accelerators, the acceleration value can take even a nega-tive value. This necessitates the search for alternative architectural solutions for the implementation of such systems.In this article the approaches for hardware acceleration using reconfigurable FPGA-based computing components are explored, their comparative analysis is performed, and architectural alternatives are evaluated for the implementation of a computing platform to perform the functions ofthe 5G protocol stack with hardware acceleration of PHY and medium access control(MAC)layers functions.
‘It all depends on why it’s red’: qualitative interviews exploring patient and professional views of a traffic light system for in vitro fertilisation add-ons
Authors: Lensen Sarah , Armstrong Sarah , Vaughan Emily , Caughey Lucy , Peate Michelle , Farquhar Cynthia , Pacey Allan , Balen Adam , Wainwright Elaine
Published: May 2023

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) add-ons are techniques, medicines, or procedures used in addition to standard IVF with the aim of improving the chance of success. The United Kingdom’s IVF regulator, the Human Fertilisation Embryology Authority (HFEA) developed a traffic light system to categorise add-ons as either green, amber, or red, based on results of randomised controlled trials. We undertook qualitative interviews to explore understanding and views of the HFEA traffic light system among IVF clinicians, embryologists, and IVF patients across Australia and the United Kingdom (n = 73). Overall, participants were supportive of the intention of the traffic light system; however, many limitations were raised. It was widely recognised that a simple traffic light system necessarily omits information which may be important to understanding the evidence. In particular, the red category was used in scenarios that patients viewed as having different implications for their decision-making, including ‘no evidence’ and ‘evidesssnce of harm’. Patients were surprised at the absence of any green add-ons and questioned the value of a traffic light system in this context. Many participants considered the website a helpful starting point, but desired more detail, including the contributing studies, results specific to patient demographics (e.g. <35 years and >35 years), and inclusion of more options (e.g. acupuncture). Overall, participants believed the website to be reliable and trustworthy, particularly due to the Government affiliation, and despite some concerns regarding transparency and an overly cautious regulator. The limitations of the traffic light system could be considered in any future updates to the HFEA website and others developing similar decision support tools.

Lay summary

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) add-ons are medical procedures or technologies that may be used in addition to standard IVF. They are usually used with the aim of increasing the chance of pregnancy and live birth. However, most add-ons have not been studied in high-quality clinical trials so it is uncertain whether they are beneficial. The UK’s IVF regulator developed a traffic light system for add-ons. They label them red, amber, or green, depending on whether there is evidence the add-on increases the chance of having a baby from IVF. We interviewed IVF patients, IVF doctors, and embryologists about the traffic light system. Overall, many people thought it was a reliable and trustworthy resource – however, many problems were identified. People generally thought the system was too simple and didn’t give enough information, it had limited detail about the number and types of studies included, and some important add-ons were missing, such as acupuncture.
Memoria y sensibilidad en Walter Benjamin
Authors: Pinilla Burgos R.
Published: May 2023

En muchos de sus escritos, sobre todo en los de carácter más autobiográfico, Walter Benjamin ejercita toda una poética del recuerdo y de la memoria en donde la sensibilidad en todas sus dimensiones cobra un papel determinante. Benjamin evoca y rememora aspectos puntuales y aparentemente secundarios o meramente subjetivos e incidentales; y en el modo de hacerlo no atiende a los cauces dominantes de la visibilidad y el concepto; sino que rescata la imagen o la palabra fugaz o imaginada, y todo un océano de ruidos, sonidos, aromas y sabores. En este ejercicio se reconoce la influencia de los maestros franceses que estudió y tradujo (Baudelaire, Proust). El ejercicio de esta poética del recuerdo afincada en una sensibilidad plural y esquiva y sus posibles influencias apela a una imprescindible congruencia, a veces malograda, con la noción benjaminiana de la historia y sus implicaciones críticas y políticas. Benjamin aporta como pocos pensadores, los elementos para salvar una memoria de lo que, como un aroma, nos asalta de un fogonazo pero casi, por su aparente insignificancia, apenas nos atrevemos a recordar como crónica sustantiva de lo que hemos sido y de lo que somos.
Mujeres irrepresentables. La crítica feminista a la narratividad cinematográfica clásica
Authors: Albizu Ontaneda Natalia
Published: May 2023

Este trabajo se propone realizar un breve recorrido por los inicios de la teoría cinematográfica feminista a partir de la incorporación de la teoría psicoanalítica que llevó a cabo el célebre artículo de Laura Mulvey, “Placer visual y cine narrativo”. El propósito de tal recorrido es poner de manifiesto la problematización de la categoría “mujer” que tanto la teoría como la práctica cinematográficas feministas llevaron a cabo por medio del cuestionamiento de la narración y del lenguaje de la representación. Se trata de mostrar cómo tales aportaciones perfilaron de alguna manera la configuración del feminismo mismo como un campo inestable de problematización.
Au revoir, loi de l´État: El fin del derecho estatal de Bienestar
Authors: Sánchez-Bayón A.
Published: May 2023

¿Cuál de las legalidades estatales de las cinco repúblicas francesas es la auténtica? ¿Cuándo cae la URSS también terminan sus farsas? En la década de 1990, parece que empieza a morir la época del Estado-nación, para que nazca en su lugar la aldea global. Sin embargo, las crisis incompletas y su mala gestión por unas elites de poder (inadaptadas a la realidad en curso), sólo dificultan el tránsito, aumentando la desnaturalización del Derecho y la alienación humana. En este estudio se desmontan las mayores mentiras, para liberar de una vez a los operadores jurídicos del s. XXI, quienes han de pensar más en recuperar la felicidad (para todos) que en depender del bienestar (para pocos).
Judaísmo y política: el caso de Benjamin y el caso Bloch
Authors: Salmerón M.
Published: May 2023

Este artículo se desmarca de un juicio de valor muy habitual que, considerando sus respuestas políticas ante al nacionalsocialismo, valora la resolución de Bloch y desdeña la pusilanimidad de Benjamin. Aun reconociendo la diferencia de sus caracteres y la influencia de su procedencia sociológica en sus actitudes, se distingue en la escritura, el amor por el detalle y el utopismo operativo de ambos un sustrato común propiciado por su cultura judía.
El currículo de clase media y el fracaso del “logro”
Authors: Falk T.
Published: May 2023

Uno oye a menudo la frase “logro escolar” repetirse como un mantra en la retórica educativa actual. Sin embargo, QUÉ es lo que precisamente hay que lograr raramente se aclara. El “logro” se ha convertido en un fin en sí mismo. Desde los inicios del siglo XIX, los críticos de la cultura occidental han identificado esta búsqueda irracional del éxito como uno de los principales ingredientes del malestar moderno. Este ensayo examina la manera en la que esta búsqueda irracional infunde la institución escolar y ciega nuestra cultura frente a la urgente tarea de formular buenos fines educativos. Aunque el criticismo del ensayo emana principalmente desde el sistema educativo de los Estados Unidos, críticas similares pueden aplicarse a occidente y al mundo moderno.
La exigencia y el carácter no reducible de la contingencia en Aristóteles
Authors: Isidoro Giráldez E.
Published: May 2023

Se expone aquí una interpretación del estudio aristotélico de tò sumbebekós contenido en Metafísica VI 2-3 que, partiendo del examen de la noción de stéresis, y haciéndose cargo de la modalidad de la contingencia designada como tò endekhómenon, intenta acceder a una comprensión de la afirmación según la cual “es necesario que haya el ser katà sumbebekós” que permita acogerla no como una doctrina sino como algo pensado de manera esencial por un filósofo griego.
El papel de la motivación en la responsabilidad de los combatientes injustos
Authors: Slawinska B.
Published: May 2023

Considering that unjust combatants do not have the same rights as the just combatants, I will analyze whether motivation plays a crucial role in the moral responsibility of unjust combatants. ‘The motivations’ mean the moral reasons for acceding of combatants to war. I will examine the motivations of soldiers and their influence on moral responsibility and indicate whether this has effect on the unjust combatants’ justification. I would like to underline the connection between neurobiology and ethics which can help to look at this problem from a different perspective.
El pragmatismo trascendental y dialógico de Jürgen Habermas
Authors: Rodríguez Orgaz C.
Published: May 2023

La discusión propuesta se divide en dos mitades. En la primera parte, defendemos una interpretación de la teoría de la pragmática universal en términos de pragmatismo trascendental, muy en la línea de las propuestas firmadas por Karl-Otto Apel. En la segunda parte, nos solidarizamos con la idea de Pere Fabra según la cual el uso comunicativo del lenguaje difícilmente puede sentar las bases de todos los fines ilocutivos en que consisten los actos de habla.
De la Ética a la Justicia
Authors: Aguirre Oráa José María
Published: May 2023

Ética y razón nunca deben quedar separadas, ya que el empeño ético significa encontrar principios morales de acción humana razonables. Una reflexión filosófica sobre la moral nos descubre que el reconocimiento de mi libertad propia y de la libertad de todos, de mi existenciay de la de todos, como un valor a respetar de manera absoluta, sin condiciones ni exclusiones, constituye el principio fundamental de una fundamentación racional ética. Esto encierra una dimensión social y política inexcusable: una organización social y política humana y razonable debe articularse desde el respeto absoluto a la dignidad de todas las personas, desde la justicia para todos. La organización social y política que no lo haga, no merece llamarse ni humana ni racional
Derechos humanos y democracia. Hacia una fundamentación radical
Authors: Darat Guerra Nicole
Published: May 2023

En el presente texto se abordan la fundamentación liberal y la fundamentación republicano-comunitarista de los derechos humanos. Se pondrá particular énfasis en la posición de ambas teorías en torno a las barreras extrademocráticas a la voluntad popular y las consecuencias de estas para la defensa de los derechos humanos.
Teología política, libertad natural, paz relativa y secularización en el estado de naturaleza descrito por John Locke
Authors: SEVERO CHUMBITA Joan
Published: May 2023

El presente trabajo se propone revisar la presencia de la teología política en la obra de John Locke, así como su adecuación al concepto de secularización de Carl Schmitt. En este sentido, en primer lugar se pasara revista de A Letter Concerning Toleration, donde Locke enuncia un nosotros que comprende a las sectas protestantes, se contrapone a católicos y ateos, y se manifiesta tolerante respecto al judaísmo en tanto religión de cuerpos dóciles y productivos. Ello nos permitirá establecer que el sujeto lockeano no puede denominarse meramente cristiano como propone Waldron[1]. En segundo lugar, consideraremos la noción de libertad natural y paz relativa en Two Treatises of Government[2], para destacar el carácter teológico y secular de los argumentos que desvinculan al hombre por nacimiento de cualquier membrecía política. En este sentido, se discutirá con la interpretación de Strauss[3], según la cual Locke propondría una teoría de la propiedad meramente amoral y adquisitiva[1] Waldron, J., “God, Locke and Equality: Christian Foundations in Locke´s Political Thought”, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2002.[2] De aquí en más se empleará la abreviatura T. T., I para referir al primer tratado y T. T., II para referir el segundo. Todas las citas han sido traducidas, conservando las referencias al idioma original.[3] Strauss, L., Natural Right and History, Chicago University Press, Chicago, 1992.
Cyber Literacy Skills of Estonians: Activities and Policies For Encouraging Knowledge-Based Cyber Security Attitudes
Authors: Kont Kate-Riin
Published: May 2023

With the advent of COVID-19, people spent more time at home. Countries, societies, companies and individuals suddenly became dependent on cyberspace overnight. Work, shopping and leisure meant we became more than ever weak to the risks of cyberspace. The human factor makes people the “key” to otherwise technically hardly penetrable systems – criminals play on people’s greed, emotions, happiness, etc.

It is no surprise that Estonians are more active daily internet users compared to the rest of the Europeans. But what is being done in Estonia at the national level, as well as in cyber protection organisational level, to raise the awareness of residents about cyber security? What else should be done to reduce victims among ordinary citizens and how to protect various important public and private organisations from the consequences of the cyber-risky behaviour of their employees? What is the role of libraries in promoting cyber security awareness? A human error is a central target of cyber attacks, phishing scams, and data breaches. Cyber criminals are becoming more and more inventive. It is important to understand that cyber security risks can be managed and mitigated, but not completely eliminated. Increasing security awareness is the only factor that can help limit breaches caused by human frailty.
Evolutionary transition-transversion bias by the example of the cytb gene of palearctic Muridae (Rodentia) and Vespertilionidae (Chiroptera)
Authors: Mezhzherin S.V. , Morozov-Leonov S.Y. , Zhalay O.I. , Kokodiy S.V. , Tereshchenko V.O. , Rostovskaya О.V. , Tsyba A.O.
Published: May 2023

A comparative analysis of the features of the transition-transversion bias of the nucleotide sequence of the cytb gene in microbats (Vespertilionidae, Chiroptera) and mice (Muridae, Rodentia) shows both general regularities and certain family-level features. A common feature of the two families is the fact of the sharp predominance of transitions over transversions at the early stages of the evolutionary process, followed by the equalization of the ts/tv-displace- ment at the species and genus levels of divergences, as well as the fact that the increase in the frequency of transitions in phyletic lineages is gradual, and the transition is intermittent. At the same time, the levels of spontaneous mutations and evolutionary drift, as well as the rate of ts/tv drift compensation, are specific to families. These circumstances do not make it possible to obtain comparable estimates of divergence in different phyla and cause insurmountable difficulties in creating a universal formula for molecular clocks.
Skin eruptions and infectious rash diseases in children in the practice of a primary care physician
Authors:   Department of Paediatrics, Paediatric Nephrology and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland, Leszczyńska-Pilich Michalina , Nidzińska Katarzyna ,   Department of Paediatrics, Paediatric Nephrology and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland, Rustecka Agnieszka ,   Department of Paediatrics, Paediatric Nephrology and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland, Kalicki Bolesław ,   Department of Paediatrics, Paediatric Nephrology and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
Published: May 2023

Skin eruptions sometimes appear as the first signs of disease in children, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment. Examination of the child’s skin is a routine element of the physical examination, which provides valuable information facilitating the correct diagnosis. Distinguishing individual skin eruptions that make up the overall picture of the disease often causes diagnostic difficulties in the context of rash diseases in children in the practice of a primary care physician. These diseases include viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections as well as those of ambiguous aetiology, such as Kawasaki disease. In this paper, individual primary and secondary skin eruptions are characterised. Primary eruptions are typically a direct result of the development of the disease process in the skin; secondary eruptions, in turn, usually develop from primary eruptions, as consequences thereof. A rash is a lesion that affects the appearance and texture of the skin surface. This paper discusses the most common infectious diseases with a rash in the clinical picture. In addition, when differentiating infectious rash diseases in children, attention was paid to other – non-infectious – skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and psoriasis. These are disease entities characterised by a diverse clinical picture depending on the stage of the disease and the age of the child. When diagnosing a high-fever child, life-threatening conditions such as meningococcal sepsis, with petechiae that do not disappear under pressure, should always be considered. Prolonged fever, especially lasting more than 5 days, should prompt the physician to conduct diagnostics towards Kawasaki syndrome – a disease of ambiguous aetiology.
Systemic contraindications for laser vision correction surgery
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland. Head of the Department: Professor Marek Rękas, MD, PhD, Juda Maciej , Wierzbowska Joanna ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland. Head of the Department: Professor Marek Rękas, MD, PhD,   Optegra Eye Clinic, Warsaw, Poland. Head: Jolanta Oficjalska, MD, PhD
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Laser refractive surgery corrects refractive errors by changing the shape of the anterior surface of the cornea and its refractive power by using a laser. Patients with refractive errors and systemic comorbidities pose a challenge for refractive surgeons. According to the guidelines of ophthalmological societies, the coexistence of autoimmune connective tissue diseases or hormonal disorders, some pharmacotherapies, pregnancy and lactation are contraindications for refractive procedures. These recommendations have been formulated on the basis of case reports or recommendations coming from other ophthalmic surgeries. Aim: The aim of the study was to summarise the current literature data on systemic contraindications for laser vision correction. Materials and methods: The literature review included the PubMed database. In the search for relevant articles, the following keywords were used: “refractive surgery”, “contraindications”, “LASIK”, “PRK”, “laser in situ keratomileusis”, “photorefractive keratectomy”. The references of articles that met the criteria were also analysed. Discussion: The main reason for considering some systemic conditions and pharmacotherapy as exclusion criteria for refractive surgery was the concern of an increased risk of postoperative eye inflammation, unpredictable healing and corneal remodelling, as well as a severe dry eye syndrome. In recent decades, a number of articles have been published supporting the safety profile of refractive procedures in patients with inactive autoimmune diseases, well-controlled diabetes or undergoing specific pharmacotherapy. These publications were based on either retrospective studies or case series, with short-term follow-up and their results should be interpreted with caution. Conclusions: Active or uncontrolled autoimmune diseases, pregnancy and lactation are absolute contraindications for laser vision correction. The decision to perform refractive surgery in patients with inactive and well- controlled systemic diseases or risk factors should be made individually and carefully by an experienced surgeon.
Assessment of serum concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases-2, -3 and -9, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 in children with primary hypertension
Authors:   Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland. Head: Professor Katarzyna Ziora, MD, PhD, Banaszak Beata
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Primary hypertension is regarded to be a growing health concern in children. The pathogenesis of primary hypertension is multifactorial. The role of altered levels of matrix metalloproteinases has been proposed. In hypertension, metalloproteinases are engaged not only in vascular remodelling but also in activation of vasoconstrictive agents. Aim of the study: We aimed at comparing the serum concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases-2, -3 and -9, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 in children with primary hypertension and normotensive peers. Materials and methods: We surveyed 23 children with primary hypertension, aged 14.75 years (median; interquartile range, IQR 3.66) and 23 normotensive subjects, aged 14.66 years (median; IQR 6.25). Serum concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases-2, -3 and -9, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent method, and the scores were compared with Mann–Whitney U test, with the level of significance at p ≤ 0.05. Results: In children with primary hypertension, serum concentration of matrix metalloproteinase-2 [178.1 (IQR: 35.84) vs. 99.9 (IQR: 20.1) ng/mL], -3 [6.47 (IQR: 1.75) vs. 2.67 (IQR: 1.08) ng/mL], -9 [191.1 (IQR: 52.75) vs. 58.34 (IQR: 18.99) ng/mL] and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 [863.9 (IQR: 192.9) vs. 335.41 (IQR: 109.99) ng/mL] were significantly higher than in the normotensive controls (p < 0.00001). Matrix metalloproteinase-9/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 ratio [0.22 (IQR: 0.1) vs. 0.18 (IQR: 0.05)] was also significantly elevated in the hypertensive participants (p = 0.008). Conclusions: Elevated serum concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases-2, -3 and -9, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 in children with primary hypertension may indicate their role in the development of hypertension and/or on the presence of vascular remodelling at an early stage of the disease.
An assessment of renal function by neutrophil lipocalin and cystatin C in obese adolescents with or without obesity-induced hypertension
Authors:   Faculty of Health Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland, Radosz Aleksandra , Obuchowicz Anna ,   Faculty of Health Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Obesity and hypertension are associated with organ complications, including kidney diseases. It is necessary to search for the methods of early detection of these complications. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess renal function in obese adolescents, based on lipocalin-2 and cystatin C levels in relation to creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate and leptin levels. Materials and methods: The study included 76 children aged 11–17 years, with obesity or with obesity and obesity- induced hypertension or normosthenic children with tension headaches (control group). Renal function was assessed based on serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (Schwartz equation). Plasma and urine lipocalin-2, serum cystatin C and leptin levels were determined by ELISA. Results: Renal function assessed by creatinine level and estimated glomerular filtration rate was normal in all patients, but mean creatinine levels were significantly higher and estimated glomerular filtration rate was significantly lower in the study groups compared to controls. No significant differences were found in plasma and urine lipocalin-2 levels. Mean cystatin C level was significantly higher in the obese group. We have found a weak positive correlation between plasma lipocalin-2 and creatinine levels and its weak negative correlation with estimated glomerular filtration rate, as well as a positive correlation for leptin and cystatin C levels in the obese group. Conclusion: The role of plasma and urine lipocalin-2 and serum cystatin C in the assessment of renal function in obese adolescents with or without obesity-induced hypertension is ambiguous. The relationship between cystatin C and leptin levels in obese children also requires further research.
Awake craniotomy for low-grade gliomas
Authors:   Department of Neurosurgery, Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland, Podgórski Andrzej , Wrzesień Dominika ,   Department of Neurology, Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland, Koziarski Andrzej ,   Department of Neurosurgery, Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland, Zieliński Grzegorz ,   Department of Neurosurgery, Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
Published: May 2023

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of awake brain surgery for benign glial brain tumours in the Department of Neurosurgery of the Military Institute of Medicine in Warsaw. Materials and methods: Between 2020 and 2021, 9 out of 17 patients with a radiological diagnosis of a low-grade glioma located within or in the vicinity of eloquent brain areas were operated on under awake conditions. The average preoperative tumour volume was 29.6 cm3. Preoperative management included a repeat magnetic resonance imaging supplemented with functional magnetic resonance imaging and tractography, as well as neuropsychological assessment. The cortex and subcortical structures were stimulated intraoperatively at 1.5–4 mA. The intraoperative assessment covered: motor functions, speech, and, additionally in two patients, visual field width and contralateral neglect. Results: Based on magnetic resonance imaging on the first postoperative day, complete removal of the tumour was confirmed in 7 patients. In 2 patients, resection was subtotal due to the fact that part of the tumour that infiltrated eloquent structures was left. In 6 patients, transient neurological deterioration was observed in the early perioperative period, which resolved within 2 months after surgery. In 3 patients, histopathological examination revealed a tumour with a higher grade of malignancy than expected. Conclusions: Our experience confirms that surgical treatment of benign glial tumours using direct electrical stimulation in awake patients is an effective and safe method allowing effective tumour resection with a minimised risk of adverse neurological sequelae.
Unhealthy nutrition among teenagers in the city of Bielsko-Biała
Authors:   Faculty of Health Sciences, The President Stanislaw Wojciechowski Calisia University, Kalisz, Polska, Góra Dariusz
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Unhealthy nutrition results from inappropriate eating behaviours that lead to changes in body weight. Consuming excessive amounts of salt, sugar, carbonated drinks, alcohol combined with physical inactivity causes overweight or obesity. In order to prevent incorrect nutrition, it is necessary to prevent overnutrition and to promote health-promoting behaviours that should be targeted at specific groups of the society. Such initiatives may limit or even exclude the emergence of incorrect nutrition which contributes to an increase in the incidence of lifestyle diseases. Objective: The aim of the article is to present and discuss the forms of spending free time, participation in physical education classes, and dietary habits of third-year secondary school students in the city of Bielsko-Biała (Poland). Materials and methods: An original questionnaire entitled “My health – something I care about” was used for the study. The questionnaire included questions about the diet, forms of spending free time, and participation in physical education classes at school. Results: Based on the questionnaire findings, watching TV is the most common form of spending free time (37% boys and 32% girls). Only 7% of girls and 18% of boys chose participation in sports as a form of spending their free time. 28% of boys and as much as 39% of girls admitted that they did not participate in physical education classes at school. The type of drinks consumed by secondary school pupils was significantly dependent on their gender. Regarding the type of lunch, sweet buns are chosen by 31% of boys and 23% of girls. Fruit is declared as their preferred lunch snack by 28% of the surveyed girls and only 2% of boys. Conclusions and discussion: The study has shown that there are many abnormalities in the diet of adolescents. The widespread belief that a slim figure is an asset nowadays prompts many young people to use various weight loss diets or fasting which, if used excessively, can pose a threat to the developing body systems. Information gathered from the respondents also shows that they do not have sufficient physical activity. Secondary school pupils increasingly choose passive recreation because physical activity does not give them as much satisfaction as, for example, playing computer games.
Combined approach of transnasal and transoral endoscopic surgery in a child with nasal glial heterotopia
Authors:   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia, Afandi Mohd , Saniasiaya Jeyasakthy ,   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia, Kulasegarah Jeyanthi ,   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia, Narayanan Prepageran ,   Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia,   Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia, Seong Man Kein
Published: May 2023

Aim of the study: The aim of this case report is to outline the difficulties associated with managing a child with nasal glial heterotopia. Developmental midline nasal mass, especially of neurogenic origin, poses a great challenge to managing surgeons. Nasal glial heterotopia is among benign congenital midline nasal tumours with aggressive features. Case report: Herein, we report the case of a 5-month-old infant who presented earlier, at 3 months old, with respiratory distress secondary to obstructive nasal mass. Result and discussion: Imaging and bedside flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy showed a localised nasal mass with no intracranial tumour. Following two combined endoscopic intraoral and transnasal tumours, the diagnosis of nasal glial heterotopia was made, and the patient is under surveillance. Conclusion: Multidisciplinary team discussion along with combined endoscopic transnasal and transoral approach ought to be considered in managing challenging congenital nasal tumours in children.
A case of a syndromic preterm neonate in a “can ventilate, can’t intubate” condition: Guedel airway to the rescue!
Authors:   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Singh Deol Balinder , Saniasiaya Jeyasakthy ,   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Kulasegarah Jeyanthi ,   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Upper airway distress associated with craniofacial anomaly has been reported widely. An antenatal scan of craniofacial anomaly should alert the attending team to prepare for respiratory distress in any neonate following delivery. Additionally, a stepwise algorithm is imperative to manage the difficult airway in children with craniofacial anomalies. Aim: To outline a case of difficult airway in a newborn with a craniofacial anomaly. Case study: A premature neonate, born at 36 weeks, was referred to the otorhinolaryngology team following the failure of intubation. Guedel oropharyngeal airway was inserted, and temporarily airway was managed with non-invasive ventilation. However, tracheostomy was subsequently performed, while the neonate was ventilated via face mask. Discussion and conclusion: Prompt management is of dire importance in handling a newborn with craniofacial anomaly in respiratory distress. Guedel oropharyngeal airway is a temporary measure used to secure the airway, while tracheostomy is performed.
Positive impact of cognitive reserve on the dynamics of selected cognitive functions in a 3-month follow-up of adult Poles
Authors:   Institute of Psychology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland, Szepietowska Ewa
Published: May 2023

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3383-0353 Introduction: David Snowden’s 25-year longitudinal Nun Study has contributed to the ongoing interest in the relationship between cognitive reserve and cognitive performance in adults. The term “cognitive reserve” refers to the capital of knowledge and skills. Greater cognitive reserve accounts for good baseline cognitive status of adults and may translate into successful aging. Therefore, research was undertaken to assess the role of cognitive reserve and age in shaping the results of tests assessing cognitive functions and self-report methods. Methods: The study was conducted among adult Poles (N = 80) and involved two measurements (at baseline and after 3 months). The cognitive reserve index included self-report data on past and present involvement in various areas of life, years of occupational activity, level of formal education and occupational status. Each of these categories was scored. Cognitive functions were assessed twice using verbal fluency tests, the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale – Revised (WAIS-R) subtests, the Zoo Map subtest, the Trail Making Test (TMT), self-report tools such as the Dysexecutive Questionnaire – Self (DEX-S) and the Prospective and Retrospective Memory Questionnaire (PRMQ), as well as the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II). Results: Age was negatively correlated with test results, while greater cognitive reserve contributed to better outcomes, which was observed both at baseline and follow-up. The same assessments performed separately for the group of younger (≤55 years of age) and older (≥56 years) adults revealed the negative effect of age in the older group, with less pronounced positive effect of cognitive reserve. Discussion: The results correspond to previous findings. Attention, cognitive flexibility, working memory and planning abilities deteriorate with age. High levels of cognitive reserve account for improvement of these functions both at baseline and at 3 months. However, age, the negative role of which is particularly evident in individuals aged ≥56 years, is the strongest determinant of task performance. Conclusions: The relationship between deteriorated cognitive functions and the protective role of cognitive reserve may vary at different stages of adulthood. Adverse effects of age on cognitive abilities are more pronounced, while the protective effects of cognitive reserve cease in individuals aged ≥56 years. This may indicate that in the presence of other unfavourable factors, such as multimorbidity, cognitive reserve has no significant impact on the ageing trajectory.
Therapeutic approaches for pathological gamblers with psychiatric comorbidities – a literature review
Authors:   Zakład Badań nad Alkoholizmem i Toksykomaniami, Instytut Psychiatrii i Neurologii, Warszawa, Polska, Wieczorek Łukasz , Dąbrowska Katarzyna ,   Zakład Badań nad Alkoholizmem i Toksykomaniami, Instytut Psychiatrii i Neurologii, Warszawa, Polska
Published: May 2023

Research has shown that gambling disorders often coexist with other mental disorders, with worse treatment outcomes in the affected patients than those with a single disorder. This population is also characterised by higher hospitalisation rates, non- compliance and poor response to pharmacotherapy. The aim of this review was to identify, describe and analyse therapeutic approaches used for pathological gamblers with other mental health issues. The EBSCOhost database was used for literature review. Combinations of key phrases referring to gambling disorders and the most frequently identified mental comorbidities were used for the search. The review showed that therapeutic guidelines for gamblers with mental comorbidities are missing. According to previous studies, the cognitive-behavioural approach in individual and group therapy seems to be an effective strategy for gambling disorders overlapping with other psychiatric comorbidities. Motivational interviewing and desensitisation with exposure to stimuli have also been shown to be effective. Pharmacotherapy is an indispensable component of treatment. Therapy via the Internet, which may be particularly attractive for those reluctant to opt for individual or group therapy, is an alternative to traditional sessions. It is necessary to develop treatment guidelines for patients with gambling disorders co-occurring with other mental conditions to provide support for practitioners working with these patients.
Disorders due to substance use in ICD-11. Changes in clinical diagnosis
Authors:   Katedra Psychologii Klinicznej i Neuropsychologii, Instytut Psychologii, Wydział Pedagogiki i Psychologii, Uniwersytet Marii Curie-Skłodowskiej w Lublinie, Lublin, Polska, Modrzyński Robert
Published: May 2023

The latest revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) was published on June 18, 2019. ICD-11 introduces major changes in both the nomenclature and understanding of many health conditions, including disorders due to substance use. The introduced modifications mainly include an updated and extended range of substance classes, additional harmful patterns of substance use, a new category referred to as “a single episode of harmful use”, a category for high-risk substance use, and simplification of diagnostic guidelines for substance dependence. Improvement of clinical utility was the primary goal of the work on the ICD-11 system. It is important to note the demand for treatment, which significantly exceeds the available resources, with the difference ranging from 32% to 78%, depending on the disorder. Due to the above problems, the World Health Organization decided that there is a need to increase the identification and early management of mental disorders at the primary health care level. The aim of the paper is to discuss changes in the diagnostic criteria for disorders due to substance use listed in ICD-11. Categories for different patterns of substance use, definitions and diagnostic criteria have been presented.