bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiometabolic disorders, inflammation and the incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A longitudinal study comparing lean and non-lean individuals
Authors: Aneni Ehimen C. , Saeed Gul Jana , Bittencourt Marcio Sommer , Cainzos-Achirica Miguel , Osondu Chukwuemeka U. , Budoff Matthew , Parise Edison R. , Santos Raul D. , Nasir Khurram
Published: April 2022

Background

There is limited knowledge about the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) associated with cardiometabolic disorders in lean persons. This study examines the contribution of cardiometabolic disorders to NAFLD risk among lean individuals and compares to non-lean individuals.

Methods

We analyzed longitudinal data from 6,513 participants of a yearly voluntary routine health testing conducted at the Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Brazil. NAFLD was defined as hepatic ultrasound diagnosed fatty liver in individuals scoring below 8 on the alcohol use disorders identification test. Our main exposure variables were elevated blood glucose, elevated blood pressure (BP), presence of atherogenic dyslipidemia (AD, defined as the combination of elevated triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol) and physical inactivity (<150 minutes/week of moderate activity). We further assessed the risk of NAFLD with elevations in waist circumference and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (HsCRP).

Results

Over 15,580 person-years (PY) of follow-up, the incidence rate of NAFLD was 7.7 per 100 PY. In multivariate analysis adjusting for likely confounders, AD was associated with a 72% greater risk of NAFLD (IRR: 1.72 [95% CI:1.32–2.23]). Elevated blood glucose (IRR: 1.71 [95%CI: 1.29–2.28]) and physical inactivity (IRR: 1.46 [95%CI: 1.28–1.66]) were also independently associated with increased risk of NAFLD. In lean individuals, AD, elevated blood glucose and elevated BP were significantly associated with NAFLD although for elevated blood glucose, statistical significance was lost after adjusting for possible confounders. Physical inactivity and elevations in HsCRP were not associated with the risk of NAFLD in lean individuals only. Among lean (and non-lean) individuals, there was an independent association between progressively increasing waist circumference and NAFLD.

Conclusion

Cardiometabolic risk factors are independently associated with NAFLD. However, there are significant differences in the metabolic risk predictors of NAFLD between lean and non-lean individuals. Personalized cardiovascular disease risk stratification and appropriate preventive measures should be considered in both lean and non-lean individuals to prevent the development of NAFLD.
Innovation concentration in knowledge network
Authors: Zheng Jifeng
Published: April 2022

This paper studies the increase in innovation concentration levels of U.S. industries over the last two decades. I present a model of imperfectly competitive patent market with heterogeneous firms that generate endogenous variable markups. Theoretically and empirically, the price of a firm’s newly invented knowledge, the profit and survival rate of the innovating firm depends on the market share of this firm’s knowledge stock and the position of industry in the knowledge network. In the process of innovating, firm pays a random fixed cost in each period which together with market share largely determines its decision on whether to innovate into different sectors. I find that firms with larger market share not only invest more in R&D but also enter into more sectors. Since innovating firms could create blueprints for new varieties and manufacture the products that have been invented, I bridge the gap between the product and the R&D markets to document the similar concentration trends between them. I prove that large firms in the product market would charge higher price on their product so that they can charge higher profit which is a part of the value of their knowledge. Lastly, the increasing trend of concentration could decrease consumers’ welfare in the industries with high initial concentration levels.
Genetic diversity of the cultivated Salvia miltiorrhiza populations revealed by four intergenic spacers
Authors: Feng Jie , Liao Fang , Kong Deying , Ren Ruihua , Sun Tao , Liu Wei , Yin Yanyan , Ma Haoyu , Tang Jiahao , Li Guanrong
Published: April 2022

For better understanding the genetic diversity and phylogeny of the cultivated Salvia miltiorrhiza populations, four intergenic spacer sequences, ETS, psbA-trnH, trnL-trnF, and ycf1-rps15 of the 40 populations collected from China were Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplified, analyzed both individually and in combination. Haplotype diversity analysis showed that the cultivated S. miltiorrhiza populations had a very rich genetic diversity and an excellent capacity to resist environmental pressure. The best-fit nucleotide substitution models for ETS, psbA-trnH, trnL-trnF, ycf1-rps15, and their combined sequences were HKY+I, T92, T92, T92+G, and T92+G, respectively; the nucleotide conversion frequency in the combined sequences was lower than the transversion, and the relatively high nucleotide substitution frequencies suggests its high genetic variability. Neutral tests showed that the spacer sequences of the populations conform with the neutral evolution model, and there has been no current expansion events occurred. Phylogeny analyses based on both the individual and the combined sequences showed that the 40 populations were clustered in two clades with a very similar topological structure. The discrimination rate of the combined sequence marker is significantly increased to 52.5% (21 populations) over the highest 35% (13 populations) by the single marker of ETS, though still inadequate but a big step forward. Further exploration of more DNA markers is needed. This study for the first time revealed the rich genetic diversity and phylogeny of the currently cultivated S. miltiorrhiza populations in China and provides novel alternative molecular markers for the genetic identification and resources evaluation of the cultivated S. miltiorrhiza populations.
Low cost multifunctional 3D printed image quality and dose verification phantom for an image-guided radiotherapy system
Authors: Wu Jian-Kuen , Yu Min-Chin , Chen Shih-Han , Liao Shu-Hsien , Wang Yu-Jen
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) is used to precisely deliver radiation to a tumour to reduce the possible damage to the surrounding normal tissues. Clinics use various quality assurance (QA) equipment to ensure that the performance of the IGRT system meets the international standards set for the system. The objective of this study was to develop a low-cost and multipurpose module for evaluating image quality and dose.

Methods

A multipurpose phantom was designed to meet the clinical requirements of high accuracy, easy setup, and calibration. The outer shell of the phantom was fabricated using acrylic. Three dimensional (3D) printing technology was used to fabricate inner slabs with the characteristics of high spatial resolution, low-contrast detectability, a 3D grid, and liquid-filled uniformity. All materials were compatible with magnetic resonance (MR). Computed tomography (CT) simulator and linear accelerator (LINAC) modules were developed and validated.

Results

The uniformity slab filled with water is ideal for the assessment of Hounsfield units, whereas that filled with wax is suitable for consistency checks. The high-spatial-resolution slab enables measurements with a resolution up to 5 lp/cm. The low-contrast detectability slab contains rods of 5 different sizes that can be clearly visualised. These components meet the American College of Radiology (ACR) standards for QA of CT simulators and LINACs.

Conclusions

The multifunctional phantom module meets the ACR recommended QA guidelines and is suitable for both LINACs and CT-sim. Further measurements in an MR simulator and an MR linear accelerator (MR-LINAC) will be arranged in the future.
Fashion Politics: Dressing Segregation and Distinction
Authors: Spiegl Andreas
Published: April 2022

This text is aiming to question the relations of (neo-liberal) politics and fashion, based on current developments that are turning politics into a mode of fashion, both structured by the mechanisms of markets and logics of exclusion. Their main issues are segregation and distinctions in order to erase diversity and to depoliticize politics.
Work with the Existing: Be Realistic
Authors: NCCFN
Published: April 2022

NCCFN is a network of fashion, art and cultural workers. This multidisciplinarity characterizes their work as well as their methodology. They redefine the relationship between people and material. The Global fashion industry is one of the leading causes for social and ecological problems. As a consequence NCCFN uses fashion as a medium to deal with these problems in a practical way. They work with the existing, with overproductions of the industry and develop methods to re-address these global products without origin. By appropriating these materials, NCCFN finds existing references in their actual context; it simply creates new economical value. The aesthetical result of their work shows a parodic way of how to get on with reality, and how to consider and question the definition of 'new' and 'raw' nowadays. Exploring the field of design by expanding the perception between creation as a property and its legitimation of aesthetical appropriation. NCCFN works in a local global way: They believe in their multicultural composition as a tool of expanded methodology and sharing of knowledge, labour and crafts. As diverse the group is represented - as diverse is their target group. Meaning NCCFN keeps to provide their products to all people of any society class. Along the line - they do not associate themselves - to any style, class or scene.
GEOGRAFIA LITERÁRIA EM PARQUE INDUSTRIAL DE PATRÍCIA GALVÃO
Authors: Souza Beatriz Santos , Cavalcante Tiago Vieira
Published: April 2022

A industrialização trouxe consigo um desenvolvimento econômico, político e social para o espaço urbano. Para entender esse processo contamos com a contribuição da Geografia das Indústrias. Entretanto, a Literatura, que desde 1970 vem sendo inserida com mais vigor nos estudos geográficos, se mostra também passível de explorar o fenômeno industrial. Relacionando Geografia e Literatura, propomos uma Geografia Literária das Indústrias capaz de examinar nos escritos literários as dinâmicas relacionadas, direta ou indiretamente, à industrialização. O romance Parque Industrial publicado em 1933, de Patrícia Galvão, retrata a vida das operárias do bairro do Brás em São Paulo e é um exemplo da possibilidade de se trabalhar uma Geografia Literária das Indústrias.
INQUIETAÇÕES SOBRE A NATUREZA: ENTRE UTOPIAS E DISTOPIAS ANTRÓPICAS
Authors: Barbosa Cláudia Silva
Published: April 2022

Faz alguns milênios que o ser humano se viu como uma parte fora da natureza. Essa natureza, ao longo do tempo, assumiu diversas roupagens, desde ser considerada como território do sagrado até ser tratada apenas como recurso para benefício do homem.  No processo de dessacralização, a natureza-objeto foi superexplorada, o que gerou impactos, algumas vezes expressos artisticamente em distopias que anunciaram um futuro caótico para a humanidade. Esse futuro se materializou em 2019 sob a forma de um vírus que deu vida para uma nova distopia em âmbito mundial, o SARS-CoV-2. Embora com origem natural, sua rápida propagação estaria atrelada com a ação antrópica. A pandemia que gerou impactos na economia e nas formas de viver humanas, tão arraigadas ao capitalismo moderno, abriu caminho para reflexões sobre narrativas que tratam de outras perspectivas do convívio coletivo, pautado em objetivos comuns e na valorização das sabedorias ancestrais e do reencontro com a natureza. Dentre essas possibilidades estão as propostas levantadas pela etnoconservação e pelo Bem Viver. Talvez novas utopias. Este artigo buscou refletir sobre esse contexto, rastreando bibliografias que abordam a temática.
Notes from the Editors, April 2022
Authors: The Editors -
Published: April 2022

buy this issue

As we write these notes at the beginning of March 2022, the eight-year limited civil war in Ukraine has turned into a full-scale war. This represents a turning point in the New Cold War and a great human tragedy. By threatening global nuclear holocaust, these events are also now endangering the entire world. To understand the origins of the New Cold War and the onset of the current Russian entry into the Ukrainian civil war, it is necessary to go back to decisions associated with the creation of the New World Order made in Washington when the previous Cold War ended in 1991.
The Defense of Nature
Authors: Foster John Bellamy
Published: April 2022

The rapid financialization of nature is promoting a Great Expropriation of the global commons and the dispossession of humanity on an unprecedented scale.
Obfuscation
Authors: Piercy Marge
Published: April 2022

A new poem by Marge Piercy.
Anatomical and Histological Study of Neonatal Human Spleen
Authors: Musleh Anas Hamed , Ali Atyaf Mohammed , Shalal Mahdi Salih
Published: April 2022

The spleen is the human body's largest lymphoid organ. The appearance of the spleen is inflated by a variety of conditions, such as cell abnormalities that lodge within the spleen or storage function disorders. As a result, the spleen's size can be used as a predictor of illness severity. Place and period of study: From July 2019 to May 2020, all of these samples were taken from autopsied bodies in the mortuary room of Kirkuk forensic medicine and the institute of forensic medicine in Baghdad, with legal authority. Study design: Cross-sectional descriptive study. Materials: The current study used 20 autopsy neonate human spleens ranging in age from 1 to 28 days that were collected from available dead undergoing post-mortem examination, were studied macroscopic and microscopic after staining with Hematoxylin and Eosin. Results: The number of notches in this study ranged from zero to five, however the top score of the specimens had one or two notches. The accessory spleen, on the other hand, was not found in the area the spleen's hilum. From the first day forward, the characteristic lymphoid follicle or white pulp could be recognized. During this time, nucleated red blood cells were observed. Purpose of study: Because no data on the standard dimensions of the normal spleen exists in the Iraqi population, the findings of this study may reveal differences in spleen morphology and provide valuable data for parameter standardization, It will be useful for correct clinical diagnosis and treatment of disease by physicians, surgeons, radiologists, and anatomists.
Efek Proteksi Ekstrak Cymbopogon nardus pada Histologi Testis Mencit (Mus musculus) Setelah Induksi Timbal Asetat
Authors: Maghfuroh Lilis , Setyowati Putri Ayu Ika , Solekha Rofiatun , Nisa Khoirin , Savitri Nynda Ayu Nadira
Published: April 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efek perlindungan ekstrak serai wangi Cymbopogon nardus (C. nardus) terhadap induksi timbal asetat. Sebanyak 25 mencit jantan strain BALB/C secara acak dibagi menjadi lima kelompok. Kelompok kontrol negatif hanya mendapat injeksi sub cutan Na-CMC 0,5% selama 30 hari ; kontrol positif  diinjeksi sub cutan timbal asetat sebanyak 7 mg/kg bb selama 5 hari; P1, P2, dan P3 secara berturut-turut diinjeksi sub cutan timbal asetat 7 mg/kg bb selama 5 hari kemudian dilanjutkan dengan injeksi ekstrak C. nardus sebanyak 25, 50, dan 100 mg/kg bb selama 25 hari. Pada akhir penelitian semua mencit dikorbankan dan dilakukan koleksi testis. Jaringan testis diproses menggunakan pewarnaan Hematoxylin-Eosin. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa terjadi peningkatan sel spermatogonia, sel spermatosit, dan sel spermatid serta diameter tubulus seminiferus dibandingkan dengan kelompok positif. Dosis optimal yang paling mampu memperbaiki kerusakan jaringan testis yaitu 25 mg/kg bb. This study aimed to determine the protective effect of Cymbopogon nardus (C. nardus) extract against lead acetate exposure. A total of 25 male mice BALB/C were randomly divided into five groups. The negative control group only received 0.5% Na-CMC subcutaneously for 30 days; positive control was given 7 mg/kg bw of lead acetate subcutaneously for 5 days; P1, P2, and P3 were sequentially injected with 7 mg/kg bw subcutaneously for 5 days followed by injection of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg bw of C. nardus extract for 25 days. At the end of the study all mice were sacrificed and testes were collected. Testicular tissue using Hematoxylin-Eosin staining. The results showed that there was an increase in spermatogonia cells, spermatocytes, and spermatid cells as well as the diameter of the seminiferous tubules compared to the positive group. The optimal dose most capable of repairing testicular tissue damage was 25 mg/kg bw.
The Optimization of Addition of Bromelain Enzyme Catalyst on the Fermentation of Coconut Milk to VCO (Virgin Coconut Oil) Using Tempeh Yeast
Authors: Rahmalia Itta , Kusumayanti Heny
Published: April 2022

Coconut (Cocos nucifera) is one of the most abundant tropical plants in Indonesia. It is proven that in 2020 the total area of coconut plantations in Indonesia reached 3,377,376 hectares. Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) is one of the diversified coconut products with high commercial value. In this study, the production of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) was carried out by fermenting tempeh yeast and with the help of the bromelain enzyme as a catalyst. This is because the bromelain enzyme is a type of protease enzyme that acts as a protein breaker in the oil contained in the coconut milk emulsion. Research has shown that the concentration of the bromelain enzyme affects the yield of VCO. Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) with the addition of 6 grams of bromelain enzyme, 30 hours of fermentation time, and the use of 2 grams of tempeh yeast resulted in the highest yield value of 9.2% and free fatty acids (FFA) of 0.21%. This is because the higher the bromelain enzyme concentration, the more it will bind to protein as a substrate. In addition, the longer the fermentation, the more hydrolysis that occurs in the oil, so that the fermentation time also affects the concentration of free fatty acids of VCO. Analysis of fatty acid content was carried out using the GCMS method and showed that the highest fatty acid content was lauric acid at 54.27%. While the physical characterization of the resulting VCO is in accordance with SNI 7381:2018, which has a distinctive smell of coconut aroma, a distinctive taste of coconut oil, and is colorless.
Chapoutot, J. Zákon krve (Myslet a jednat jako nacista)
Authors: Seltenreich Radim
Published: April 2022

Book review: CHAPOUTOT, J. Zákon krve (Myslet a jednat jako nacista). Praha: Rybka Publishers, 2021, 534 p.
Bily, I. – Carls, W. – Gönczi, K. – Lazar, M. Sächsisch-magdeburgisches Recht in Tschechien und in der Slowakei. Untersuchungen zur Geschichte des Rechts und seiner Sprache
Authors: Starý Marek
Published: April 2022

Book review: Bily, I. – Carls, W. – Gönczi, K. – Lazar, M. Sächsischmagdeburgisches Recht in Tschechien und in der Slowakei. Untersuchungen zur Geschichte des Rechts und seiner Sprache (= Ius Saxonico-Maideburgense in Oriente, Band 5). Berlin – Boston: De Gruyter, 2021, 696 p.
Tvorba ústavy Slovenské republiky z 21. července 1939 a cesta k jejímu přijetí
Authors: Neumann Martin
Published: April 2022

This article deals with the process of creation and adoption of the Constitution of the Slovak Republic in 1939. Firstly, the development of Slovak autonomism and separatism with an emphasis on events following the Munich Agreement is briefly outlined. Secondly, the beginning of the existence of the Slovak state after its proclamation in March 1939 is introduced. Finally, the main part of the article researches ideological concepts applied in the described constitution. Moreover, it concerns itself with the working process of Constitution Commission of HSĽS presidency, which has prepared the government Bill of the Constitution, and changes made by the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee of the Slovak Assembly. In the final chapter, the principal provisions and institutions of the Constitution, including their changes during the legislative procedure and their further changes under conditions of authoritarian or totalitarian state led by far-right HSĽS are being discussed.
Morbidity and Mortality Analysis for Risk-based Pricing in Cattle Insurance
Authors: Doss Steward , Pathak Tiwari Shalini
Published: April 2022

Morbidity and Mortality have also been a reason for concern for the insurers as increased morbidity and mortality contribute to a higher cost of claims including claim frequency. Currently, there are only two rating factors (Age and types of cattle) being adopted by the insurers while determining the premium rates and there is no risk-based pricing adopted for Cattle Insurance in India. The main objective of this paper is to identify the important rating factors influencing the mortality and morbidity trends among different cattle types in India. Secondly, there is a need to examine whether the mortality and morbidity trends vary across different parameters like animal type, breeds, age, gender, agro-climatic zone, types of formers/animal owners, etc. If it varies, then to find out the degree of variations and also measure the impact of these rating factors on cattle mortality. This paper focuses on the analysis of the morbidity and mortality of cattle across different types of cattle, breeds, age groups, gender, and different agro-climatic regions, etc. Further, it also examines the differences in cattle management practices; particularly the frequency and the quantity of feed, types, and quality of feed (nutritional value) given, animal healthcare management, exposure to catastrophic risk hazards, etc., with a view to developing risk-based pricing for cattle insurance. This would help insurers to understand the changes in cattle mortality and morbid trends and also build a comprehensive mortality table across different types and breeds of cattle. This would also immensely help the insurers in determining risk-based premium rates among different types of animals, their breeds, geographic regions, customer types, etc. which would enable in developing sustainable cattle insurance portfolio in the Indian insurance market. The output of the analysis can also be used by the insurers to develop index-based livestock insurance as well as parametric insurance.
Wieder aufbauen nach dem Krieg. Alfred Roth und die in der Schweiz internierten polnischen Architekten
Authors: Schlachetzki Sarah M.
Published: April 2022

During the Second World War, more than 10,000 Polish soldiers were interned in Switzerland. Among them were prominent architects, including Marek Leykam and Bohdan Garliński, who upon returning to Poland, left their mark on postwar modernism. Leykam was later marginalized for his buildings that were allegedly too International in style. Garliński became one of the key ideologists of Socialist Realism in the First General Exhibition of Architecture of the People’s Republic of Poland.

This article is the first to re-trace their years in Switzerland and their contacts with Alfred Roth, CIAM member and former employee of Le Corbusier. During the war, Roth pursued plans for the reconstruction of Europe, and it was he who supplied the internees with architectural literature and support. Their intersections exemplify the larger history of Switzerland’s insular role during the war, and Poland’s immensely complex architectural scene in the early 1950s.
Mit Machine Learning auf der Suche nach Provenienzen – ein Use Case der Bildklassifikation an der Österreichischen Nationalbibliothek
Authors: Krickl Martin , Mayer Simon , Zangger Emanuel
Published: April 2022

Bibliotheken können in vielen Bereichen künstliche Intelligenz einsetzen. Machine Learning bietet vielversprechende Einsatzmöglichkeiten, unter anderem in der Erschließung von digitalisierten historischen Buchbeständen. Der vorliegende Artikel präsentiert eine Anwendung für die Ermittlung von Provenienzen an zwei Beispielen aus dem Bestand der Österreichischen Nationalbibliothek. Als binäre Bildklassifikatoren wurden Convolutional Neural Networks eingesetzt. Zudem soll gezeigt werden, dass mit einem einfachen Setting bereits gute Ergebnisse erzielt werden können.
A case report of CAT gene and HNF1β gene variations in a patient with early-onset diabetes
Authors: Cui Tao , Ju Hai-Bing , Liu Peng-Fei , Ma Yun-Jun , Zhang Fu-Xian
Published: April 2022

Complex forms of diabetes are the ultimate common pathway involving multiple genetic variations and multiple environmental factors. Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is classified as complex diabetes. Varying degrees of insulin deficiency and tissue insulin resistance are two key links to T2DM. The islet β cell dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of T2DM. The decompensation of the islet β cell to insulin resistance is a common mechanism leading to the pathogenesis of T2DM. Available data show that genetic factors mainly affect cell function. At present, a number of susceptibility genes related to T2DM have been reported at home and abroad. In this study, the diabetes-related genes in the case of early-onset diabetes with a significant family history were examined, and our results showed the presence of the intron mutations of catalase (CAT) gene and hepatocyte nuclear factor 1β (HNF1β) gene. The patient enrolled in this study was observed and analyzed, thus, increasing further understanding of the genes associated with diabetes and exploring the pathogenesis of diabetes from the molecular level. This is significant for guiding the prevention, treatment, and prognosis evaluation of diabetes.
The effect of CYP2D6 and CYP2C9 gene polymorphisms on the efficacy and safety of the combination of tramadol and ketorolac used for postoperative pain management in patients after video laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Muradian Andranik Alexandrovich , Sychev Dmitry Alekseevich , Blagovestnov Dmitry Alekseevich , Sozaeva Zhannet Alimovna , Akmalova Kristina Anatolyevna , Zastrozhin Michael Sergeevich , Kerimova Leyla Nabievna , Koroshvili Vadim Teymurazovich , Epifanova Irina Alexandrovna
Published: April 2022

Objectives

One of the key components of ERAS is adequate pain control in the postoperative period. There are no rational schemes for postoperative pain relief. At the same time, adequate postoperative pain relief promotes early activation and early rehabilitation of patients and shortens the duration of the postoperative stay, and does not cause postoperative complications associated with analgesia (weakness, intestinal paresis, nausea and vomiting). The aims of the present study are to assess the possible association of CYP2D6 and CYP2C9 polymorphisms with the efficacy and safety of tramadol and ketorolac in postoperative pain.

Methods

A total of 107 patients were genotyped for CYP2D6 and CYP2C9 polymorphisms. All patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Postoperative pain relief was carried out with ketorolac and tramadol. Postoperative pain syndrome was assessed using a visual analogue scale and McGill pain questionnaire. The profile of side effects was assessed by the dynamics of red blood counts as a possible trigger for the development of gastrointestinal bleeding according to the method of global assessment of triggers.

Results

Pain was statistically significantly lower in CYP2C9*2 carriers, according to visual analogue scale (VAS): after 12 h – by 1.5 (p=0.002); after 24 h – by 1.1 (p=0.012); after 36 h – by 1.05 (p=0.004); after 48 h – by 0.7 (p=0.026). In CYP2C9*3 carriers the results were not statistically significant. In carriers of CYP2D6*4 pain syndromes were higher at all-time intervals, but statistically reliable results were obtained only after 2 h – by 1.01 (p=0.054) and after 24 h – by 0.8 (p=0.035). The profile of adverse reactions for NSAIDs was evaluated by the dynamics of hemoglobin and erythrocyte indices. A more pronounced decrease in the relative difference in hemoglobin levels was noted in CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 polymorphism carriers – by 1.7 (p=0.00268) and-by 2.2 (p=0.000143), respectively.

Conclusions

CYP2D6 and CYP2C9 can predict analgesic effectiveness of tramadol and ketorolac. CYP2C9 can predict the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, including those hidden to ketorolac.
MicroRNAs as novel biomarkers for rivaroxaban therapeutic drug monitoring
Authors: Rytkin Eric , Bure Irina V. , Bochkov Pavel O. , Akmalova Kristina A. , Mirzaev Karin B. , Cherniaeva Marina S. , Ostroumova Olga D. , Smirnov Valery V. , Grishina Elena A. , Saribekian Anna G. , Sychev Igor N. , Sychev Dmitry A.
Published: April 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study is to assess micro-RNAs miR-142 and miR-39 as potential biomarkers for drug-monitoring of rivaroxaban among elderly patients with atrial fibrillation.

Methods

The study involved 57 patients with median (ME) age 87 years [80–94 years old] with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation admitted to a multidisciplinary hospital in Moscow. High-performance liquid chromatography with mass-spectrometry detection (HPLC-MS) was carried out to measure rivaroxaban concentrations. Carriership of CYP3A4 and ABCB1 was detected. MiRNA expression levels were measured. The activity of CYP3A4 isoenzyme was measured as the ratio of the concentrations of 6β-hydroxycortisol and cortisol.

Results

The miR-142 expression levels of patients with CC allelic variant polymorphism ABCB1 3435 C>T (rs1045642) were significantly higher compared to CT and TT variants 31.69 ± 1.60 vs. 34.06 ± 1.66 vs. 33.16 ± 1.77 (p=0.021). Carriers of TT allelic variant polymorphism ABCB1 rs4148738 had a higher concentration of the 6-beta-hydroxycortisol in urine compared to CC and CT variants 3,467.35 ± 1,055.53 vs. 3,453.52 ± 1,516.89 vs. 2,593.30 ± 1,172.52 (p=0.029). As for CYP3A4*22, the carriers of CC allelic variant had higher prothrombin time 14.10 ± 2.17 vs. 11.87 ± 0.60 and INR 1.31 ± 0.20 vs. 1.1 ± 0.06 but lower Quick’s value 74.52 ± 16.84 vs. 97.55 ± 10.54 (p=0.059). A positive correlation between the Ct miR-142 and the aPTT p=0.019 was noted. Also miR-142 has a correlation with Quick’s value p=0.095. There is no statistically significant connection between miR-142 and miR-39 expression levels and the plasma concentration of rivaroxaban (b coefficient=−2.055, SE 3.952, p=0.605 and b coefficient=1.546, SE 9.887, p=0.876 in the linear regression model respectively).

Conclusions

This study has assessed new potential biomarkers for rivaroxaban therapeutic drug monitoring: miR-142 and miR-39.
CYP2D6 phenotype and ABCB1 haplotypes are associated with antipsychotic safety in adolescents experiencing acute psychotic episodes
Authors: Ivashchenko Dmitriy V. , Yudelevich Daria A. , Buromskaya Nina I. , Shimanov Pavel V. , Deitch Roman V. , Akmalova Kristina A. , Kachanova Anastasia A. , Dorina Irina V. , Nastovich Marina I. , Grishina Elena A. , Savchenko Lyudmila M. , Shevchenko Yuriy S. , Sychev Dmitriy A.
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To identify possible associations of CYP2D6, CYP3A4/5, and ABCB1 gene polymorphisms with the efficacy and safety of antipsychotics in adolescents with acute psychotic episodes.

Methods

We examined the associations of pharmacogenetic factors with the efficacy and safety of antipsychotics in 101 adolescents with acute psychotic episodes. The diagnosis on admission was “Brief psychotic disorder” (F23.0–23.9 by ICD-10). All patients were administered antipsychotics for 14 days. Treatment efficacy and safety were assessed using the PANSS, CGAS, CGI-S(I), UKU SERS, BARS, and SAS scales. Pharmacokinetic genotyping was performed for the CYP2D6*4, *10, ABCB1 1236C>T, 2677G>T, and 3435C>T genes.

Results

CYP2D6 intermediate metabolisers had “Micturition disturbances” more often than extensive metabolisers (24.2 vs. 7.4%; p=0.026). “Wild” homozygote ABCB1 3435C>T CC was associated with more prominent akathisia. Haplotype analysis of three ABCB1 polymorphisms revealed that the “wild” alleles “C-G-C” (ABCB1 1236-2677-3435) were associated with higher risk of “Reduced salivation” (OR=2.95; 95% CI=1.35–6.45; p=0.0078).

Conclusions

CYP2D6 intermediate metabolism was associated with the risk of urinary difficulties under treatment with antipsychotics. We found that “wild” homozygotes ABCB1 1236C>T, 2677G>T, and 3435C>T were predictors of adverse drug effects caused by treatment with antipsychotics.
Migraine (Shaqeeqa) and its management in Unani medicine
Authors: Riyazuddin Mohd. , Shahid Arisha , Nagaraj Renuka Bangalore , Alam Md Anzar
Published: April 2022

Out of many disease conditions suffered by mankind since ancient ages, Migraine holds a significant position. It is derived from the word “hemi-crania” and is a type of primary headache. This disease is mentioned in the ancient scriptures dating back to the Mesopotamian era. It has been documented by Hippocrates (460–377 BC) in his treatise, further explored and explained on the basis of cause and location by Galen (131–201 AD). Later its etiopathogenesis clinical features and management was described by Al-Razi (850–923 AD), an eminent Unani physician. Migraine is a disease majorly affecting one side of the head and characterized by recurrent attacks of pulsating headache, mostly associated with nausea, vomiting, photophobia and phonophobia, with or without an aura. It is triggered by noise and light, based on the brightness, intensity, wavelengths or type of light that is being emitted. According to Unani physicians, the word Shaqeeqa is derived from Arabic word ‘Shiq’, meaning ‘a part’ or ‘a side’, hence the name Shaqeeqa. They describe it as a type of headache (Suda) in which pain occurs only in one side of head, and the causative factors for it are the morbid matters and morbid vapours (Bukharat e Radiya) arising from morbid humours which are either excessive in amount, too hot or too cold. It often results due to abnormal substantial temperament (Su-e-Mizaj Maddi) giving two variants acute (Shaqeeqa haar) and chronic (Shaqeeqa barid). The treatment mainly consists of elimination of morbid matter which is accumulated in the body, and strengthening the brain using brain tonics (Muqawwiyat-e-Dimagh).
Debt Spillovers in a Monetary Union: A Novel Rationale for Central Bank Independence
Authors: Campoy Juan Cristóbal , Negrete Juan Carlos
Published: April 2022

Central bank independence has been championed on the grounds that it avoids political business cycles, the time-inconsistency problem of discretionary monetary policy, and political conflicts. However, after the financial crisis, central banks have resorted to unconventional monetary policies and embraced additional tasks, making monetary authorities more exposed to political interference. This new reality has put into question the long-lasting consensus on the desirability of central bank independence. We add to this debate a new argument in support of that independence, namely, it internalizes the fiscal spillovers that arise in a monetary union, which is not a full fiscal union.
The Effectiveness of Fiscal-Budgetary Measures to Counteract the COVID-19 Crisis. Evidence from EU Countries
Authors: Dornean Adina , Oanea Dumitru-Cristian
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study is to analyse the fiscal-budgetary measures, which have been taken by almost all governments around the world, including EU countries, in an attempt to limit the negative impact of the pandemic blockade. In most cases, these measures concerned the granting of technical unemployment, the postponement of tax payments, and the suspension or postponement of loan instalments or their maturity. The present study focuses especially on tax and expenditure measures that EU countries have introduced in response to the COVID-19 crisis. With this purpose, a paired sample t-test and multiple linear regression are used based on balanced panel data for the 27 EU countries for the period 2000Q1–2020Q3. The obtained results show that COVID-19 crisis had a significant negative impact on GDP growth. At the same time, a significant increase in public debt and government deficit occurred due to COVID-19 crisis. However, resuming the findings, the intensity, and implicitly, the effect of these measures depends on the specifics of each economy.
Green synthesis of manganese-doped superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for the effective removal of Pb(ii) from aqueous solutions
Authors: Rehman Ata Ur , Sharafat Uzma , Gul Saima , Khan Murad Ali , Khan Sher Bahadar , Ismail Muhammad , Khan M. I.
Published: April 2022

In the current study, pure and manganese-doped superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (Mn-doped SPIONPs) were successfully prepared by a green approach using a fresh aqueous extract of Asparagus officinalis as a reducing and stabilizing agent. Magnetic behaviors of pure and Mn-doped SPIONPs were measured at room temperature against various field strengths by a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The saturation magnetization was in the range of 5.39–2.07 emu. Absorption at 340 nm in the UV-visible spectrum confirmed the presence of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). The presence of plant extract as a capping agent was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The crystalline nature of IONPs was confirmed by X-ray diffraction. A gradual increase in size was observed with increasing concentration of Mn. The synthesized materials were applied successfully as sorbent for the effective removal of lead ions (Pb(ii)). Experimental results of adsorption were also analyzed by Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm equations at different temperatures. The results suggested that sorption processes were spontaneous, and the synthesized SPIONPs displayed PbII removal capacity at higher loadings with q
m of 21.3 and 29.56 mg·g−1 for undoped and 7% Mn-doped IOPNs, respectively, as compared to the commercial activated carbon.
Effect of stabilizers on Mn ZnSe quantum dots synthesized by using green method
Authors: Nguyen Van Khiem , Pham Duy Khanh , Tran Ngoc Quyen , Dang Le Hang , Nguyen Ngoc Hoa , Nguyen Thanh Mien , Viet Nguyen Thanh , Oh Jin-Woo , Bui Thi-Diem , Luong Bich Thi
Published: April 2022

Herein, the effect of three types of capping polymers, mercaptopropionic acid (MPA), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and starch on the photoluminescence of Mn(2+)-doped ZnSe (ZnSe:Mn) nanoparticles, has been investigated. ZnSe:Mn nanoparticles were successfully prepared with a green method of precipitation in aqueous solutions containing MPA, PEG, or starch as stabilizers. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy had proved the formation of ZnSe:Mn particles and the interaction between them and the capping agents. The resultant nanoparticles with different capping polymers were identical in optical property; however, photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQY) as well as the photoluminescence lifetime varied by capping agents. Starch-capped ZnSe:Mn nanoparticles had the biggest size compared to others, which was confirmed using transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, UV-Vis absorbance and Raman spectroscopy. Also, the PL intensity was significantly enhanced with starch-capped ZnSe:Mn nanoparticles. The PLQYs of starch archived 26%, which was 1.23 or 1.8 times lower than that of ZnSe:Mn nanoparticles capping with MPA or PEG, respectively. Furthermore, the highest decline of PL intensity was detected in PEG, which completely diminished in the 19th week, while both MPA and starch endowed ZnSe:Mn nanoparticles with outstanding PL lifetimes diminished over seven weeks.
Einsatzhärten – Ein Prozess mit neuen Entwicklungen und Perspektiven*
Authors: Edenhofer B.
Published: April 2022

Das Einsatzhärten ist seit vielen Jahren der dominierende Wärmebehandlungsprozess für hoch beanspruchte Bauteile in Motoren, Maschinen, Getrieben, Fahrzeugaufhängungen, Düsentriebwerken usw. Diese herausragende Stellung ist entstanden trotz einiger Nachteile, die mit der klassischen Gasaufkohlung verbunden sind, wie verhältnismäßig langsamer Kohlenstoffübergang und lange Prozesszeiten, Oberflächenanomalitäten, indirekte Prozesskontrolle, hoher Gasverbrauch, Verwendung von Abschreckölen, Emissionen und nicht ganz einfache Arbeitsbedingungen.

Neuere Entwicklungen in der Verfahrenstechnik versprechen jetzt, diese Nachteile zu beheben, und bestimmen somit die Entwicklung des Einsatzhärtungsprozesses von Öfen in separaten Härtereien zu Wärmebehandlungsmaschinen, die in Fertigungslinien integriert sind. Diese Entwicklung wurde durch die Verwendung zweier gasförmiger Medien in Gang gesetzt. Es handelt sich hierbei einmal um Kohlenwasserstoffgase für die Aufkohlung und zum anderen um inerte Gase für das Abschrecken.

In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden die Einflüsse und Wirkungen dieser beiden gasförmigen Medien auf den Kohlenstoffübergang, das Randgefüge, die Prozesssteuerung und das Abschreckverhalten sowie die Anlagentechnik untersucht.
Einfluss des Prozessgases auf Kohlenstoffaufnahme und Rußbildung in Niederdruck-und Plasmaaufkohlungsprozessen*
Authors: Clausen B. , Laumen C. , Holm T. , Hoffmann F. , Mayr P.
Published: April 2022

Niederdruck- und Plasmaaufkohlung sind Aufkohlungstechniken, denen zunehmend Interesse entgegengebracht wird. Beide bieten einen vergleichsweise hohen Kohlenstoffmassenstrom in die Werkstückoberfläche, der gerade bei einer Anhebung der Aufkohlungstemperatur unverzichtbar ist. Das hohe Kohlenstoffangebot bei Niederdruckaufkohlungsprozessen (mit oder ohne Plasma) begünstigt auf der anderen Seite Rußbildung im Ofen. Kohlenstoffablagerungen auf den isolierenden keramischen Bauteilen des Ofens können zu Kurzschlüssen führen und müssen möglichst verhindert werden. Die Keramikbauteile müssen daher spätestens ersetzt werden, sobald sie elektrisch leitend werden. Das Ziel der hier vorgestellten Untersuchung ist, festzustellen, ob die Qualität und die Zusammensetzung der eingesetzten Prozessgase einen Einfluss auf die Rußbildung und den Kohlenstoffmassenstrom in die aufzukohlenden Oberflächen hat. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass sowohl Qualität als auch Zusammensetzung des Prozessgases einen deutlichen Einfluss haben, dass es aber überraschenderweise nicht erforderlich ist, die beste erhältliche Gasqualität einzusetzen, um optimierte Aufkohlungsergebnisse zu erhalten.
Oberflächenhärtung von austenitischen Stählen unter Beibehaltung der Korrosionsbeständigkeit*
Authors: Günther D. , Hoffmann F. , Jung M. , Mayr P.
Published: April 2022

Es wird über Untersuchungen zur Steigerung der Verschleißbeständigkeit austenitischer Stähle durch Aufkohlen berichtet. Randbedingung war, dass die hohe Korrosionsbeständigkeit des austenitischen Werkstoffes nicht beeinträchtigt werden darf. Bei der Prozessführung kommt neben weiteren Parametern der Temperatur eine wesentliche Bedeutung zu, um eine Mikrostruktur einzustellen, bei der sich Kohlenstoff in Lösung befindet und keine Chromcarbide ausgeschieden werden. Die Durchführung der Versuche wird beschrieben und die Ergebnisse werden anhand röntgenographischer, chemischer sowie metallographischer Untersuchungen analysiert und bewertet.
Neue Erkenntnisse zum Plasmaborieren mit Trimethylborat*
Authors: Küper A. , Stock H.-R. , Mayr P.
Published: April 2022

Mit Hilfe von dünnen Nickel-Barriereschichten auf dem Stahl 42CrMo4 konnten in einem plasmaunterstützten Prozess mit der Verbindung Trimethylborat, B(OCH3)3, kompakte Boridschichten der Zusammensetzung (Ni,Fe)2B und Fe2B erzeugt werden. Es wurde der Einfluss der Nickelschichtdicke, des Nickel-Abscheideverfahrens sowie der Prozessparameter Druck und Zeit auf die Boridschichtausbildung untersucht. Je nach Behandlungszeit – bei einer 2 μm dicken Nickel-Barriereschicht – hat die resultierende Boridschicht eine Dicke bis zu 160 μm und weist eine Härte von maximal 2150 HV 0,025 auf.
Das Primärgefüge sprühkompaktierter Stähle
Authors: Schulz A. , Matthaei-Schulz E. , Spangel S. , Tinscher R. , Vetters H. , Mayr P.
Published: April 2022

Sprühkompaktieren ist als ein neu entwickeltes Produktionsverfahren für technische Werkstoffe bekannt, speziell für die Herstellung hochwertiger Stähle. Die Vorteile der Zerstäubung der Schmelze in kleine Tröpfchen begleitet von extrem schneller Abkühlung bedingen eine bemerkenswerte Erhöhung der Homogenität bei der Entstehung des Primärgefüges im Vergleich zum konventionell abgegossenen Werkstoff. Diese Vorzüge werden auch im Halbzeug nach thermisch-mechanischen Behandlungen gefunden. Untersuchungen der sehr homogenen Gefüge an einem Wälzlagerstahl (100Cr6) und einem Schnellarbeitsstahl (HS6-5-2C) zeigen auch die Vermeidung von Poren durch hohe Verdichtung und die Eliminierung von Makroseigerungen.
Energie- und ressourcenschonende Fertigungsprozesse in der Metallbearbeitung*
Authors: Eckebrecht J. , Brinksmeier E.
Published: April 2022

Das Thema Umweltschutz ist in der Metall verarbeitenden Industrie von zunehmender Bedeutung. Das ECO-Centrum des Instituts für Werkstofftechnik beschäftigt sich mit der Weiterentwicklung von Fertigungsverfahren und konzentriert sich in seiner Arbeit insbesondere auf die Umweltaspekte, die mit dem Einsatz unterschiedlicher Fertigungsverfahren verbunden sind. Ein Ziel von besonderer Wichtigkeit ist es hierbei, Betriebe bei Lösungen in diesem Bereich zu unterstützen. Der folgende Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit der umweltverträglichen Gestaltung von Fertigungsprozessen und mit der Problematik des umwelttechnischen Vergleichs alternierender Verfahrensführungen.
Einfluss von Brechwerkzeugen auf die Eigenschaften von Betonrezyklaten
Authors: Diedrich R.
Published: April 2022

Bei der Aufbereitung von mineralischen Abbruch- und Aufbruchmassen werden bevorzugt der Prallbrecher und der Backenbrecher und vereinzelt auch der Kegelbrecher eingesetzt. Im Rahmen eines Forschungsvorhabens sollte geprüft werden, wie sich Beton bei der Zerkleinerung mit diesen Brechern und deren unterschiedlichen Brechwerkzeugen verhält. Dazu wurden die Brecher in verschiedenen Anlagen miteinander kombiniert, so dass aus Betonquadern zweier unterschiedlich fester Betonsorten (B15 und B35) der Abmessung 50 cm × 50 cm × 25 cm ein Korngemisch 0/32 mm für die Wiederverwertung im Beton nach DIN 1045 hergestellt werden kann. Es wurde das Brechgut aus vier Anlagentypen, der Prallbrecheranlage mit Überkornrückführung, der Backen-/Prallbrecheranlage, der Backen-/Kegelbrecheranlage und der Prall-/Kegelbrecheranlage untersucht. In dem vorliegenden Artikel werden nur die Ergebnisse der wichtigsten Untersuchungen aus dem Forschungsprojekt wie die Korngrößenverteilung, Kornform, Widerstand gegen Frost, Kornrohdichte und stoffliche Zusammensetzung vorgestellt. Dabei konnten werkstoffliche Unterschiede zwischen den Rezyklaten aus den verschiedenen Aufbereitungsanlagen aufgezeigt werden. Generell blieb bei allen Anlagen der Betoncharakter (Rohdichte/ Porosität/Widerstand gegen Frost) in den Rezyklatfraktionen 4/8, 8/16 und 16/32 im Wesentlichen erhalten.
The Death and Disposal of Sacred Texts
Authors: El Shamsy Ahmed
Published: April 2022

Both Islamic and Jewish thought display a sensitivity to the treatment of texts, particularly sacred texts. This article investigates Muslim debates on how to dispose of worn-out sacred texts. It argues that these debates were rooted in the precedent formed by the reported destruction of noncanonical copies of the Qurʾān by the third caliph ʿUthmān, and they featured various preferred and rejected methods of text disposal, including burning, washing, shredding, and burying. By the thirteenth century CE, these debates had yielded a robust theorization of worn-out texts as analogous to human corpses and thus deserving of respectful burial.