bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Putative Linkage Signals Identified for Breast Cancer in African American Families
Authors: Ochs-Balcom Heather M. , Sun Xiangqing , Chen Yanwen , Barnholtz-Sloan Jill , Erwin Deborah O. , Jandorf Lina , Sucheston-Campbell Lara , Elston Robert C.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Background: Genome-wide association studies have identified polymorphisms associated with breast cancer subtypes and across multiple population subgroups; however, few studies to date have applied linkage analysis to other population groups.

Methods: We performed the first genome-wide breast cancer linkage analysis in 106 African American families (comprising 179 affected and 79 unaffected members) not known to be segregating BRCA mutations to search for novel breast cancer loci. We performed regression-based model-free multipoint linkage analyses of the sibling pairs using SIBPAL, and two-level Haseman–Elston linkage analyses of affected relative pairs using RELPAL.

Results: We identified −log10 P values that exceed 4 on chromosomes 3q and 12q, as well as a region near BRCA1 on chromosome 17 (−log10 P values in the range of 3.0–3.2) using both sibling-based and relative-based methods; the latter observation may suggest that undetected BRCA1 mutations or other mutations nearby such as HOXB13 may be segregating in our sample.

Conclusions: In summary, these results suggest novel putative regions harboring risk alleles in African Americans that deserve further study.

Impact: We hope that our study will spur further family-based investigation into specific mechanisms for breast cancer disparities. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(2); 442–7. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Spectrum of Immune-Related Conditions Associated with Risk of Keratinocyte Cancers among Elderly Adults in the United States
Authors: Yanik Elizabeth L. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Freedman D. Michal , Weinstock Martin A. , Cahoon Elizabeth K. , Arron Sarah T. , Chaloux Matthew , Connolly M. Kari , Nagarajan Priyadharsini , Engels Eric A.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Background: Elevated keratinocyte carcinoma risk is present with several immune-related conditions, e.g., solid organ transplantation and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Because many immune-related conditions are rare, their relationships with keratinocyte carcinoma have not been studied.

Methods: We used Medicare claims to identify cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) cases in 2012, and controls matched on sex and age. All subjects were aged 65 to 95 years, of white race, and had attended ≥1 dermatologist visit in 2010–2011. Immune-related conditions were identified during 1999–2011 using Medicare claims. Associations were estimated with logistic regression, with statistical significance determined after Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons.

Results: We included 258,683 SCC and 304,903 BCC cases. Of 47 immune-related conditions, 21 and 9 were associated with increased SCC and BCC risk, respectively. We identified strongly elevated keratinocyte carcinoma risk with solid organ transplantation (SCC OR = 5.35; BCC OR = 1.94) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (SCC OR = 1.62; BCC OR = 1.25). We identified associations with common conditions, e.g., rheumatoid arthritis [SCC OR = 1.06, 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.04–1.09] and Crohn's disease (SCC OR = 1.33, 95% CI, 1.27–1.39; BCC OR = 1.10, 95% CI, 1.05–1.15), and rare or poorly characterized conditions, e.g., granulomatosis with polyangiitis (SCC OR = 1.88; 95% CI, 1.61–2.19), autoimmune hepatitis (SCC OR = 1.81; 95% CI, 1.52–2.16), and deficiency of humoral immunity (SCC OR = 1.51, 95% CI, 1.41–1.61; BCC OR = 1.22, 95% CI, 1.14–1.31). Most conditions were more positively associated with SCC than BCC. Associations were generally consistent regardless of prior keratinocyte carcinoma history.

Conclusions: Many immune-related conditions are associated with elevated keratinocyte carcinoma risk and appear more tightly linked to SCC.

Impact: Immunosuppression or immunosuppressive treatment may increase keratinocyte carcinoma risk, particularly SCC. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(7); 998–1007. ©2017 AACR.
Data from The Oncogenic Role of miR-155 in Breast Cancer
Authors: Mattiske Sam , Suetani Rachel J. , Neilsen Paul M. , Callen David F.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
miR-155 is an oncogenic miRNA with well described roles in leukemia. However, additional roles of miR-155 in breast cancer progression have recently been described. A thorough literature search was conducted to review all published data to date, examining the role of miR-155 in breast cancer. Data on all validated miR-155 target genes was collated to identify biologic pathways relevant to miR-155 and breast cancer progression. Publications describing the clinical relevance, functional characterization, and regulation of expression of miR-155 in the context of breast cancer are reviewed. A total of 147 validated miR-155 target genes were identified from the literature. Pathway analysis of these genes identified likely roles in apoptosis, differentiation, angiogenesis, proliferation, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. The large number of validated miR-155 targets presented here provide many avenues of interest as to the clinical potential of miR-155. Further investigation of these target genes will be required to elucidate the specific mechanisms and functions of miR-155 in breast cancer. This is the first review examining the role of miR-155 in breast cancer progression. The collated data of target genes and biologic pathways of miR-155 identified in this review suggest new avenues of research for this oncogenic miRNA. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(8); 1236–43. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Cancer in Africa 2012
Authors: Parkin D. Maxwell , Bray Freddie , Ferlay Jacques , Jemal Ahmedin
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Background: Noncommunicable diseases, and especially cancers, are recognized as an increasing problem for low and middle income countries. Effective control programs require adequate information on the size, nature, and evolution of the health problem that they pose.

Methods: We present estimates of the incidence and mortality of cancer in Africa in 2012, derived from “GLOBOCAN 2012,” published by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Results: There were 847,000 new cancer cases (6% of the world total) and 591,000 deaths (7.2% of the world total) in the 54 countries of Africa in 2012, with about three quarters in the 47 countries of Sub-Saharan Africa. While the cancer profiles often differ markedly between regions, the most common cancers in men were prostate (16.4% of new cancers), liver (10.7%), and Kaposi sarcoma (6.7%); in women, by far the most important are cancers of the breast (27.6% of all cancers) and cervix uteri (20.4%).

Conclusions: There are still deficiencies in surveillance systems, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and, specifically, of their most vital component, population-based cancer registries. With the number of annual cancer cases and deaths likely to increase by at least 70% by 2030, there is a pressing need for a coordinated approach to improving the extent and quality of services for cancer control in Africa, and better surveillance systems with which they can be planned and monitored.

Impact: The results are the best data currently available and provide a reasonable appraisal of the cancer situation in Africa. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(6); 953–66. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Lifetime Physical Activity and the Risk of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Boyle Terry , Gallagher Richard P. , Gascoyne Randy D. , Connors Joseph M. , Le Nhu D. , Spinelli John J.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Research regarding the association between physical activity and the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is limited and inconsistent, and few studies have investigated whether the intensity and timing of physical activity influence the association. A case–control study of NHL was conducted in British Columbia, Canada, in 2000 to 2004. Data were collected on various NHL risk factors, including moderate-intensity and vigorous-intensity physical activity performed over the lifetime. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between physical activity and the risk of NHL. This analysis included 818 controls and 749 cases. Lifetime vigorous-intensity physical activity was inversely associated with NHL risk. Participants in the second, third, and fourth quartiles of lifetime vigorous-intensity physical activity had an approximately 25% to 30% lower risk of NHL than those in the lowest quartile [adjusted odds ratios, 0.69 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.52–0.93); 0.68 (95% CI, 0.50–0.92); and 0.75 (95% CI, 0.55–1.01), respectively]. No consistent associations were observed for total or moderate-intensity physical activity. There were no apparent age periods in which physical activity appeared to confer a greater risk reduction. In this study, we found that lifetime vigorous-intensity physical activity was associated with a significantly reduced risk of NHL. Given this finding, more research on physical activity intensity and timing in relation to NHL risk is warranted. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(5); 873–7. ©2015 AACR.
Data from The Impact of Receiving Predictive Genetic Information about Lynch Syndrome on Individual Colonoscopy and Smoking Behaviors
Authors: Kim Joanne Soo-Min , Coyte Peter C. , Cotterchio Michelle , Keogh Louise A. , Flander Louisa B. , Gaff Clara , Laporte Audrey
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Background: This study investigated whether receiving the results of predictive genetic testing for Lynch syndrome, indicating the presence or absence of an inherited predisposition to various cancers, including colorectal cancer, was associated with change in individual colonoscopy and smoking behaviors, which could prevent colorectal cancer.

Methods: The study population included individuals with no previous diagnosis of colorectal cancer, whose families had already identified deleterious mutations in the mismatch repair or EPCAM genes. Hypotheses were generated from a simple health economics model and tested against individual-level panel data from the Australasian Colorectal Cancer Family Registry.

Results: The empirical analysis revealed evidence consistent with some of the hypotheses, with a higher likelihood of undergoing colonoscopy in those who discovered their genetic predisposition to colorectal cancer and a lower likelihood of quitting smoking in those who discovered their lack thereof.

Conclusions: Predictive genetic information about Lynch syndrome was associated with change in individual colonoscopy and smoking behaviors but not necessarily in ways to improve population health.

Impact: The study findings suggest that the impact of personalized medicine on disease prevention is intricate, warranting further analyses to determine the net benefits and costs. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 25(11); 1524–33. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Viral Load of High-Risk Human Papillomaviruses as Reliable Clinical Predictor for the Presence of Cervical Lesions
Authors: Schmitt Markus , Depuydt Christophe , Benoy Ina , Bogers Johannes , Antoine Jerome , Pawlita Michael , Arbyn Marc
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Background: Infections with high-risk human papillomaviruses (Hr-HPV) can cause malignant transformation of the human cervical epithelium. HPV DNA tests generally are very sensitive to detect cervical neoplastic lesions but also identify transient HPV infections. As a consequence, the specificity and positive predictive value are low.

Methods: We analyzed viral load of Hr- and possibly Hr-HPV types more than seven orders of magnitude (on a log10 scale) in 999 consecutive BD-SurePath liquid-based cervical cytology samples from routine cervical screening enriched with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (n = 100), low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL; n = 100), and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL; n = 97) using type-specific multiplex quantitative real-time PCR and the BSGP5+/6+-PCR/MPG assay. In the 36-month follow-up, 79 histologically verified CIN2+ and 797 double-negative cytology cases were identified.

Results: Viral loads in LSIL and HSIL were significantly increased compared with no intraepithelial lesion or malignancy in both the quantitative PCR (qPCR) and BSGP5+/6+-PCR/MPG assay (P < 0.0001). The mean viral loads in LSIL and HSIL were not significantly different. Using a newly determined high viral load cut off for 14 Hr-HPV types, the sensitivity for prevalent CIN3+ remained at 100% for both assays compared with the minimal detection threshold. The specificity (corresponding to double-negative cytology at subsequent screening episodes) increased substantially (qPCR, from 91.1% to 95.7%; BSGP5+/6+-PCR/MPG, from 79.8% to 96.2%).

Conclusions: Compared with DNA positivity alone, high Hr-HPV viral loads could reduce the amount of false positive results detected by the BSGP5+/6+-PCR/MPG and qPCR by 81.4% and 52.1%, respectively.

Impact: Quantitative type-specific HPV DNA assays show high flexibility in defining thresholds that allow optimizing clinical accuracy for cervical cancer precursors. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(3); 406–14. ©2013 AACR.
Mecanismos de ocorrência de dor
Authors: Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen
Published: March 2023

Vários mecanismos estão envolvidos na ativação e supressão das unidades nociceptivas. Traumatismos físicos e químicos ambientais ativam e sensibilizam os nociceptores nos tecidos. Disto resulta liberação tecidual de neurotransmissores excitatórios que sensibilizam e ativam as vias nociceptivas no sistema nervoso periférico e central. No sistema nervoso central das unidades envolvidas nos mecanismos sensitivo-discriminativos, afetivomotivacionais e quantitativo-avaliativos da sensibilidade. Nas unidades nervosas periféricas, nos gânglios sensitivos e nas unidades neuronais da medula espinal e encefálica há mecanismos supressores de dor; são ativados pela liberação de neurotransmissores inibitóriosquando da apresentação de estímulos discriminativos. Do desbalanço da atividade das vias excitatórias e da vias supressoras ocorre a dor.
Observations of a Filamentous Intrusion and Vigorous Submesoscale Turbulence within a Cyclonic Mesoscale Eddy
Authors: Hu Zhendong , Lin Hongyang , Liu Zhiyu , Cao Zhiyong , Zhang Fangtao , Jiang Zongpei , Zhang Yao , Zhou Kuanbo , Dai Minhan
Published: March 2023

Oceanic submesoscale flows are considered to be a crucial conduit for the downscale transfer of oceanic mesoscale kinetic energy and upper-ocean material exchange, both laterally and vertically, but defining observations revealing submesoscale dynamics and/or transport properties remain sparse. Here, we report on an elaborate observation of a warm and fresh filament intruding into a cyclonic mesoscale eddy. By integrating cruise measurements, satellite observations, particle-tracking simulations, and the trajectory of a surface drifter, we show that the filament originated from an anticyclonic eddy immediately to the west of the cyclonic eddy, and the evolution of the filament was mainly due to the geostrophic flows associated with the eddy pair. Our observations reveal the mass exchange of the eddy pair and suggest that submesoscale flows can degrade the coherence of mesoscale eddies, providing important implications for the transport properties of mesoscale eddies. Vigorous submesoscale turbulence was found within the eddy core region, due to filamentous intrusion and frontogenesis. Our findings have thus offered novel insights into the dynamics and transport properties of oceanic submesoscale flows, which should be taken into account in their simulation and parameterization in ocean and climate models.

Significance Statement

Mesoscale eddies, with a spatial scale from tens to hundreds of kilometers, are ubiquitous in the global ocean. Carrying the largest proportion of oceanic kinetic energy, mesoscale eddies play a key role in ocean dynamics and have important applications for marine biology. Although mesoscale eddies have been studied extensively over the past decades, there are two major issues that remain inconclusive: (i) How do mesoscale eddies dissipate? (ii) Can eddies coherently trap waters when moving over a long distance? Recent studies, mostly through computer simulations, suggest that oceanic submesoscale processes, with a typical scale of a few kilometers, are highly relevant to the above two issues. This study presents a rare observation of a filament intruding into a cyclonic eddy. Because of this filament intrusion, submesoscale activities are enhanced near the eddy core area, in contrast to previous observations that normally suggest weaker submesoscale activities in the eddy core area than at eddy peripheries. Such dedicated process-oriented observations provide unique opportunities for better understanding the dynamics and transport properties of mesoscale eddies and submesoscale processes.
TREM2 acts as a receptor for IL-34 to suppress acute myeloid leukemia in mice
Authors: Xie Xiaoling , Zhang Wuju , Xiao Min , Wei Tiantian , Qiu Yingqi , Qiu Jingyang , Wang Hao , Qiu Zeyou , Zhang Sheng , Pan Yating , Mao Linlin , Li Yuhua , Guo Bin , Yang Wanwen , Hu Yuxing , Hu Shujie , Gong Yan , Yang Jun , Xiao Guozhi , Zhang Yue , Bai Xiaochun
Published: March 2023

The bone marrow microenvironment supports leukocyte mobilization and differentiation and controls the development of leukemias, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Here, we found that the development of AML xenotransplants was suppressed in mice with osteoclasts Tsc1 deletion. Tsc1-deficient osteoclasts released a high level of IL-34, which efficiently induced AML cell differentiation and prevented AML progression in various preclinical models. Conversely, AML development was accelerated in IL-34-deficient mice. Interestingly, IL-34 inhibited AML independent of its known receptors, but bound directly to triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2), a key hub of immune signals. TREM2-deficient AML cells and normal myeloid cells were resistant to IL-34 treatment. Mechanistically, IL-34-TREM2 binding rapidly phosphorylated Rasal3 and inactivated ERK1/2 signaling to prevent AML cell proliferation and stimulate differentiation. Furthermore, TREM2 was downregulated in AML patients and associated with a poor prognosis. This study identified TREM2 as a novel receptor for IL-34, indicating a promising strategy for overcoming AML differentiation blockade in AML patients.
Experiences of older people, healthcare providers and caregivers on implementing person-centered care for community-dwelling older people: a systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis
Authors: Liao Lulu , Feng Mingjiao , You Yanjie , Chen Yuqin , Guan Chunyan , Liu Yilan
Published: March 2023

Background

Person-centered care (PCC) is a critical approach to improving the quality of care for community-dwelling older people. Old-age care services could be provided according to older peoples’ choices, needs, and preferences. The purpose of this study was to synthesize research evidence on the experiences of older people, healthcare providers, and caregivers with PCC and to identify the enablers and barriers to implementing PCC for community-dwelling older people.

Methods

A meta-synthesis of qualitative research design was adopted. Data searches were performed using CINAHL (EBSCOhost), PubMed (OvidSP), Embase (Ovid), Cochrane Database, and PsycINFO (Ovid) in published articles and were reviewed from the earliest date to February 2023. The Qualitative Method Appraisal Tool was used to conduct a quality appraisal on selected articles. Data were extracted based on the capacity, opportunity, and motivation-behavior model (COM-B model), and the findings were synthesized using the meta-aggregative approach.

Results

Twelve included articles were analyzed to identify 122 findings that were organized into 11 categories and combined into three synthesized findings—capacities of older people, healthcare providers, and caregivers; opportunities in the implementation of PCC; motivation in implementing PCC. Capacities consisted of a lack of person-centered knowledge and skills, negative attitudes toward shared decision-making, and a lack of formal training to enhance capabilities among HCPs. Opportunities included a lack of coordination in resource allocation, strengthening multidisciplinary teamwork, establishing a desirable environment, and time constraints. Motivation in implementing PCC included encouraging self-reflection and regulation, respecting the autonomy of older people, lack of clear reward and empowerment mechanisms, and being resilient and optimistic.

Conclusions

The findings of this research provide a reference for implementing successful PCC in the community. The researchers identified barriers and facilitators of implementing PCC, facilitating through stakeholder’s person-centered knowledge and skills being valued and respecting the autonomy of older people. Establishing a positive environment and strengthening multidisciplinary team members also promotes the implementation of PCC. However, additional studies are required to explore the influencing factors and address the barriers.
The value of lung ultrasound in COVID-19 pneumonia, verified by high resolution computed tomography assessed by artificial intelligence
Authors: Chrzan Robert , Polok Kamil , Antczak Jakub , Siwiec-Koźlik Andżelika , Jagiełło Wojciech , Popiela Tadeusz
Published: March 2023

Background

Lung ultrasound (LUS) is an increasingly popular imaging method in clinical practice. It became particularly important during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its mobility and ease of use compared to high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). The objective of this study was to assess the value of LUS in quantifying the degree of lung involvement and in discrimination of lesion types in the course of COVID-19 pneumonia as compared to HRCT analyzed by the artificial intelligence (AI).

Methods

This was a prospective observational study including adult patients hospitalized due to COVID-19 in whom initial HRCT and LUS were performed with an interval < 72 h. HRCT assessment was performed automatically by AI. We evaluated the correlations between the inflammation volume assessed both in LUS and HRCT, between LUS results and the HRCT structure of inflammation, and between LUS and the laboratory markers of inflammation. Additionally we compared the LUS results in subgroups depending on the respiratory failure throughout the hospitalization.

Results

Study group comprised 65 patients, median 63 years old. For both lungs, the median LUS score was 19 (IQR—interquartile range 11–24) and the median CT score was 22 (IQR 16–26). Strong correlations were found between LUS and CT scores (for both lungs r = 0.75), and between LUS score and percentage inflammation volume (PIV) (r = 0.69). The correlations remained significant, if weakened, for individual lung lobes. The correlations between LUS score and the value of the percentage consolidation volume (PCV) divided by percentage ground glass volume (PGV), were weak or not significant. We found significant correlation between LUS score and C-reactive protein (r = 0.55), and between LUS score and interleukin 6 (r = 0.39). LUS score was significantly higher in subgroups with more severe respiratory failure.

Conclusions

LUS can be regarded as an accurate method to evaluate the extent of COVID-19 pneumonia and as a promising tool to estimate its clinical severity. Evaluation of LUS in the assessment of the structure of inflammation, requires further studies in the course of the disease.

Trial registration

The study has been preregistered 13 Aug 2020 on clinicaltrials.gov with the number NCT04513210.
Severity as a moral qualifier of malady
Authors: Solberg Carl Tollef , Barra Mathias , Sandman Lars , Hoffmann Bjørn
Published: March 2023

The overarching aim of this article is to scrutinize how severity can work as a qualifier for the moral impetus of malady. While there is agreement that malady is of negative value, there is disagreement about precisely how this is so. Nevertheless, alleviating disease, injury, and associated suffering is almost universally considered good. Furthermore, the strength of a diseased person’s moral claims for our attention and efforts will inevitably vary. This article starts by reflecting on what kind of moral impetus malady incites. We then analyze how severity may qualify this impetus. We do so by discussing the relationship between severity and need, well-being and disvalue, death, urgency, rule of rescue, and distributive justice. We then summarize our thoughts about severity as a moral qualifier. We conclude that severity is, and should continue to be seen, as a morally significant concept that deserves continued attention in the future.
Helmholtz-equation solution in nonsmooth media by a physics-informed neural network incorporating quadratic terms and a perfectly matching layer condition
Authors: Wu Yanqi , Aghamiry Hossein S. , Operto Stephane , Ma Jianwei
Published: March 2023

Frequency-domain simulation of seismic waves plays an important role in seismic inversion, but it remains challenging in large models. The recently proposed physics-informed neural network (PINN), as an effective deep-learning method, has achieved successful applications in solving a wide range of partial differential equations (PDEs), and there is still room for improvement on this front. For example, PINN can lead to inaccurate solutions when PDE coefficients are nonsmooth and describe structurally complex media. Thus, we solve the acoustic and visco-acoustic scattered-field (Lippmann-Schwinger) wave equation in the frequency domain with PINN instead of the wave equation to remove the source singularity. We first illustrate that nonsmooth velocity models lead to inaccurate wavefields when no boundary conditions are implemented in the loss function. Then, we add the perfectly matched layer (PML) conditions in the loss function to better couple the real and imaginary parts of the wavefield. Moreover, we design new neurons by replacing the classical affine function with a quadratic function in the argument of the activation function to better capture the nonsmooth features of the wavefields. We find that the PML condition and the quadratic functions improve the results including handling attenuation and discuss the reason for this improvement. We also illustrate that a network trained to predict a wavefield for a specific medium can be used as an initial model of the neural network for predicting other wavefields corresponding to PDE-coefficient alterations and improving the convergence speed accordingly. This pretraining strategy should find applications in iterative full-waveform inversion and time-lag target-oriented imaging when the model perturbation between two consecutive iterations or two consecutive experiments is small.
Earnings-Based Borrowing Constraints and Macroeconomic Fluctuations
Authors: Drechsel Thomas
Published: March 2023

Microeconomic evidence reveals a direct link between firms' current earnings and their access to debt. This paper studies macroeconomic implications of earnings-based borrowing constraints. In a macro model, firms with earnings-based constraints borrow more in response to positive investment shocks, whereas firms with collateral constraints borrow less. Empirically, aggregate and firm-level credit responds to identified investment shocks according to the predictions with earnings-based constraints. Moreover, with sticky prices, earnings-based constraints imply that supply shocks are quantitatively more important. This is validated in an estimated version of the model, highlighting the importance of carefully modeling credit constraints to understand policy trade-offs. (JEL E22, E32, G31, G32)
Hacia la comprensión de la cultura organizacional colombiana. Un enfoque desde los valores en competencia
Authors: Calderón-Hernández Gregorio , Vivares Jorge A. , Jiménez-Munive José María
Published: March 2023

La cultura organizacional se ha posicionado como un asunto estratégico por su potencial para el desarrollo de las empresas, su estudio en países emergentes como Colombia ha cobrado relevancia, pero son insuficientes las investigaciones científicas sobre el particular. El propósito de este artículo es responder ¿cómo y de qué tipo es la cultura organizacional de nuestras empresas? Metodológicamente se realizó un estudio empírico desde el paradigma lógico-positivista a fin de conocer las percepciones de la gente acerca de la realidad estudiada, mediante la aplicación de encuestas en 465 empresas colombianas ubicadas en 29 departamentos, para lo cual se hizo una adecuación del instrumento OCAI (Organizational Culture Assessment Instrument), basado en el enfoque de valores en competencia. Las medidas de validez y confiabilidad soportaron la consistencia de los constructos utilizados y su fiabilidad. Se encontró que el tipo de cultura jerárquica es la dominante en las empresas colombianas, aunque se identificó la presencia de otras culturas, como la clan, la adhocrática y la de  mercado, al clasificarlas por tamaño, sector y tipo de organización. La novedad del estudio está en la comparación de culturas clasificándolas por tamaño, sector económico y tipo de empresa (familiares versus no familiares),además de brindar hallazgos útiles para comprender mejor el tejido empresarial colombiano, con el potencial para enriquecer las estrategias de fortalecimiento.
How to avoid the wage spiral
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: March 2023

In light of the current UK cost of living crisis, Adam Bernstein provides insight into the issue of pay, which may be helpful for nurses running their own practices
The Effect of Ganoderma applanatum Crude Polysaccharide Against a-Smooth Muscle Actin and Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 Expressions in Mice after Induced by Carbon Tetrachloride
Authors: Susilo Raden Joko Kuncoroningrat , Winarni Dwi , Hayaza Suhailah , Wahyuningsih Sri Puji Astuti , Doong Ruey-an , Darmanto Win , Inayatillah Bilqis
Published: March 2023

Liver fibrosis was regarded as result of wound healing process in chronic liver injury. The α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP1) are several indicators for extracellular matrik (ECM) production which relate in fibrosis process. This study aims to determine the effect of Ganoderma applanatum crude polysaccharide (GACP) extract on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-against α-smooth muscle actin and matrix metalloproteinase expressions. A total of 24 male mice strain BALB/C, 3-4 months were divided into 6 groups. control group (distilled water and olive oil), model group (distilled water and CCl4), low G. applanatum crude polysaccharide group (G. applanatum extract at the dose of 25 mg/kg BW and CCl4), middle G. applanatum crude polysaccharide group (G. applanatum extract at the dose of 50 mg/kg b.w and CCl4), high G. applanatum crude polysaccharide group (G. applanatum extract at the dose of 100 mg/kg BW and CCl4) and silymarin group (silymarin 100 mg/kg BW and CCl4). Expressions of α-SMA and MMP1 were examined by immunohistochemical methods. The observation of immunohistochemistry used an inverted microscope at 200× magnification. The results of the observation were analyzed using ImageJ software to measure the percentage of α-SMA and MMP1 expressions. All of the data were analyzed by GraphPad Prism Software. The results showed that G. applanatum extracts prevented a significant increase in α-SMA expression and decrease MMP1 expression (p < 0.05) in comparison with the model group. Therefore, G. applanatum extracts play as liver protector against chronic liver injury after successfully inhibit α-SMA expression and prevent reduction of MMP1 expression.
Significance of Serum Ferritin and Vitamin-D Level in Coronary Artery Disease Patients
Authors: Vasudevan E. , Anton Mary Chandrika , Shanthi B. , Sridevi Chaganti , Sumathi K. , Nivethini Nivethini
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Coronary artery disease is one of the most common noncommunicable diseases that affects both men and women worldwide. Chronic inflammation and mineral nutrient deficiency, in addition to diet and sedentary lifestyle, contribute to this disease. The purpose of this study is to look at the relationship between serum ferritin, serum vitamin D levels, and serum lipid profile in patients with Coronary Artery Disease. Methods: The research was carried out at the Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute in Puducherry. A standardised health questionnaire was distributed to study participants, which included 30 patients with Coronary Artery Disease (cases) and 30 healthy controls. It detailed current and previous medication use, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. Subjects were chosen based on their responses to study-related questions. For both cases and controls, means and standard deviations (SD) were computed. To determine the relationship between the parameters, ANOVA and Pearson's correlation were used, and it was used to find the statistical significance and correlation of Serum Ferritin, Serum Vitamin D, and Serum Lipid Profile among both groups. Results: The serum ferritin levels among cases (208.87±143.01 µg/lit) were found to be high when compared to controls (99.52 ± 61.19 µg/lit) with a significant p value of 0.0003. The Serum vitamin D value of cases (21.14 ± 12.9 ng/dl) was low when compared to controls (56.54 ± 18.88 ng/dl) with a significant p value of 0.0000. Serum LDL of cases (129.1 ± 26.91 mg/dl) were found to be higher than controls (105.1 ± 25.43 mg/dl). HDL of cases (33.83±6.82mg/dl) was found to be lower than controls (49.53±6.12 mg/dl). Conclusion: Altered lipid profile with low HDL-C, high LDL-C, and high LDL-C/HDL-C suggested an increased risk for CAD. Low vitamin D levels were also associated with a higher risk for CAD. According to this study, CAD patients had high serum ferritin levels, low serum vitamin D levels, and an altered lipid profile status.
Sección abierta de homenaje a Laura Rubio
Authors: Avilés Fátima , Valls Ramona , Romanyá Blanca , Rius Mònica , Poch Antoni , Noguera Elena , Monzó Maria , Masgrau Mariona , Grasa Mar , Graell Mariona , Gómez Miquel , Gezuraga Monike , Folgueiras Pilar , Escardíbul Susagna , Aramburuzabala Pilar , Ballvé Marta , Blanch Sílvia , Bosch Carme , Buenaventura Maria Antònia , Burguet Marta , Casas Joan , Carmona Anna , Casellas Diana , Cela Jaume , Esteban Francisco , Alsina Josep , Burset Sílvia , Jarauta Beatriz , Luna Esther , Molina María Cruz , Naira Judit , Palou Berta
Published: March 2023

Sección abierta de homenaje a Laura Rubio
Near-perfect wide-band absorbers based on one-dimensional photonic crystal structures in 1–20  THz frequencies
Authors: Mokhtari Abolfazl , Rezaei Mir Hamid , Zarifkar Abbas
Published: March 2023

This paper investigates the absorption behavior of one-dimensional (1D) photonic crystal (PhC) structures in the 1–20 THz region. The structures are analyzed by the transfer matrix method to achieve accurate results quickly with ordinary simulation facilities. The simulation results indicate a strong dependence of the absorber performance on the thickness and material of the PhC layers, as well as the frequency and angle of incident light. The combination of silica and titanium (Ti) materials as dielectric and metal layers presents a great choice for broadband high-absorption applications so that this structure can absorb, on average, more than 80% of the normal incident radiation in the studied frequency range. Additionally, this absorber has the lowest dependence on incident light with the angle varying from 0° to 80° compared to identical absorbers with silver, aluminum, gold, chromium, nickel, and tungsten metals. The excellent absorption feature of the Ti-based absorber compared to the other absorbers is attributed to the lower permittivity of Ti (in both real and imaginary parts) in comparison with the other metals. In addition to owning simple and fabrication-friendly structures, 1D PhCs can pave the way to achieve various absorption spectra proportional to the needs of photonics, communications, and aerospace applications.
An individual’s physique is associated with the length of the reconstruction route via the retrosternal approach
Authors: Honda Kotaro , Lee Sang-Woong , Kawai Masaru , Tanaka Ryo , Imai Yoshiro , Matsuo Kentaro , Uchiyama Kazuhisa
Published: March 2023

We hypothesized that an individual’s physique is related to reconstruction length, as organs reconstructed via the retrosternal route are curved toward the ventral side. This study aimed to determine factors contributing to the reconstruction length of the retrosternal route. Fifty patients underwent subtotal esophagectomy with esophagogastric reconstruction via the posterior mediastinal route between 2010 and 2014; the esophagus–stomach and posterior mediastinal route lengths were measured to evaluate whether they could be approximated. Forty patients underwent reconstruction via the retrosternal route between 2015 and 2020; the esophagus–stomach and retrosternal route lengths were compared, and contributing factors were analyzed. Each length was measured perioperatively using three-dimensional enhanced computed tomography images. The associated factors obtained included age, sex, height, body weight, body mass index, thickness and height of the thorax, depth of the thoracic inlet space, thoracic curve, left hepatic lobe volume, and the thickness and height of the liver. The length of the esophagus–stomach could approximate that of the posterior mediastinal route [posterior mediastinal-esophagus–stomach; 0.04 (-0.5–0.6) cm, p = 0.77]. Using three-dimensional enhanced computed tomography images, the lengths of the esophagus–stomach and retrosternal routes were comparable, despite variability [retrosternal-esophagus–stomach; 0.72 (-0.1–1.8) cm, p = 0.095]. Analyzing factors associated with the length revealed a positive correlation of body weight, body mass index, and thickness of the thorax with the difference. A higher body mass index (OR = 1.7, 95% CI 1.1–2.8, p = 0.007) was associated with a longer retrosternal route in the multivariate analysis. An individual’s physique is associated with the reconstruction length; particularly, the length of the retrosternal route was longer in patients with a high body mass index.
Paraiba Starts Here: Analysis of the tourism potential of the Atalaia de Forte Velho Watchtower—Paraíba.
Authors: Franco Lis Vieira Araújo Silva , Vanzella Elídio
Published: March 2023

At the heart of the concept of heritage is the idea of preserving the past through multiple elements, which may range from materiality to value within a society. Bringing these aspects to the tourist context, heritage tourism can be understood as the contemplation of phenomena that carry values related to a community’s past. The focus of this research was the Atalaia de Forte Velho in the state of Paraíba. The watchtower was built by the Portuguese as a port defense during the 16th century, and was listed as a heritage site by IPHAN in 1938. Taking these aspects into account, the study analyzes the underestimated tourism potential of the region, from the perspective of the historical and socioeconomic appreciation of the local community. Through an observatory methodology, the site, the infrastructure of the tourist trade and the provision of services for the population were analyzed. The results show that the site has potential to develop heritage tourism. Based on these results, a comparison was made with another heritage site in the same category, seeking to propose the development of actions that could promote the destination and improve the tourist experience, bringing benefits not only for the local community, but also helping to preserve the heritage for future generations.
ROSTEKH STATE CORPORATION: LEGAL AND PRACTICAL ASPECTS OF ACTIVITY
Authors: Platunova T.L. , Mezhentsev V.A.
Published: March 2023

The article provides a study of the Rostec State Corporation as a non-profit organization, as a legalentity endowed with all the features. Such a statement of the problem led to an analysis of the structureof the corporation, the functions, and management bodies of the corporation. In the course of the study,both the legal features of building a corporation and the practical aspects of its activities are considered.The role of this state corporation in economic processes within Russia is considered. The analysis of theregulatory framework for the functioning of the state corporation was carried out, the role of civil law inregulating processes in the corporation was noted. The study traces the role of the state corporation in theformation of new, relevant sectors of the economy, effective import substitution. The paper notes that thestate corporation is constantly improving the mechanism of corporate governance, however, problems in thisarea are also noted. Conclusions are drawn regarding the mechanism of legal interaction between industrialenterprises and the state corporation.
APPROACHES TO IMPROVE THE ANCHORING OF CARBON REINFORCED CONCRETE STRENGTHENING LAYERS
Authors: Würgau Carolin , Schumann Alexander , Nietner Lutz
Published: March 2023

Carbon reinforced concrete (CRC) has been researched in Germany for around 20 years by now. To strengthen structures with this building material, a grid of carbon fibre in a fine-grained concrete layer is applied e.g. to the bending tension zone of an existing reinforced concrete structure (RC). This increases the load bearing capacity of the structure. The grids have changed significantly over the past few years. They have larger fiber cross-sections and different impregnations, which results in tensile forces that are approx. 3 times higher than those of textiles of the older generation. However, this increase in tensile strength can entail additional failure mechanisms: In some tests on RC specimens strengthened with a higher number of CRC layers the tensile forces in the strengthening layer could no longer be fully transferred into the steel reinforcement concrete member and damage occurred, either in the RC structure, in the bonding area between the RC structure and the strengthening layer or within the strengthening layer. To enable an optimized utilization of the carbon grids in the future, the various forms of failure are examined more closely in a research project. Different solutions are derived. The focus of the investigationsis on the anchoring of the ends of the strengthening layers. The aim is to find constructive solutions to make better use of the carbon grids and thereby further increase both the economic efficiency and the ecological balance of carbon reinforced concrete.
THE AUTOMATED MANUFACTURING PROCESS OF BUILDING ENVELOPES USING THE EXAMPLE OF CARBON-REINFORCED CONCRETE
Authors: Grauer Otto , Kahnt Alexander , Tietze Matthias , Holschemacher Klaus
Published: March 2023

As a result of climate change, more ecological building materials are continuously developed and find their way into the construction industry. These new building constructions also require new manufacturing technologies. Using examples from research and industry show how partial and complete automation can be used for the practical and individual series production of facade elements made of new building materials such as carbon concrete. The focus is on the complete internal production of some subcomponents. Thus, on the analogy of the production of steel reinforcement onsite in the precast plant, reinforcements made of textile-based materials can also be produced individually in a circulation process down to batch sizes of one without trimming and therefore without waste. The dependence on intermediate product manufacturers can be eliminated and supply bottlenecks avoided. This rethinking of their plant production enables precast producers to manufacture economically and ecologically optimized reinforcements from carbon fibers and integrate them into their circulation process. This adapted production of semi-finished and finished parts made of carbon concrete is implemented similar to the production of precast reinforced concrete elements on existing plant components. Here, too, examples from research and industry are used to demonstrate the need for adaptation in the conventional manufacturing process.
The importance of public procurement for the strategic objectives of national socio-economic development
Authors: Kokocińska Katarzyna
Published: March 2023

The involvement of the public authorities in socio-economic processes serves to achieve the objectives of the adopted policy of the State (or, respectively, the European Union). The state’s policy devised to foster socio-economic development is an instance of active state interventionism. In Polish legislation, this policy has been defined by the legislator as development policy. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate that public procurement is an instrument for achieving the strategic objectives of the development policy, thus drawing on the concept of ‘strategic use of public procurement’: a particular notion of the role of public procurement in the context of the strategic approach to development. One of the premises here is that a specific public goal – whose achievement is desirable from the standpoint of public procurement law – should serve to achieve the strategic objectives of development policy law. The article underscores the instrumental (albeit crucial) nature of public procurement with respect to state policy. For the purposes of the study, it was assumed that failure to appreciate the essence of using public procurement in the pursuit of strategic development objectives will adversely affect the consistency of public objectives and, consequently, result in incoherent actions. In this context, the author assesses the provisions of the Public Procurement Law, which provides the grounds for the adoption of the national purchasing policy that emphasizes the relevance of linking public procurement with the achievement of state objectives. The article shows that the introduction of the obligation to prepare a state purchasing policy and linking this document with the system of strategic development planning confirms the strategic use of procurement, which should serve the implementation of important public interests.
The ‘local content’ concept in public procurement: global trends in the development of public procurement law on the example of the USA, South Africa and Poland
Authors: Kola Jarosław
Published: March 2023

In recent years, the approach to the functions of law in economy has significantly changed and is perceived more and more often as a tool (instrument) to accomplish various strategic goals of development policy. The aim of the paper is to discuss such legislative efforts as the latest and, given the EU perspective, the most interesting examples of instrumentalizing public procurement through the implementation of the ‘local content’ concept. Key observations from characterization of the US and South Africa relevant regulations were considered with respect to the legal environment in the EU and Poland. The main goal of this paper is to advance conclusions concerning the legal framework in which enacting local content requirements (LCRs) would be acceptable in the light of EU law. The paper shows that the applying of LCRs in public procurement procedures may be permitted in the EU, albeit to a limited extent. In the tender procedures taking place in the EU Member States, such solutions must respect the principle of proportionality in line with the EU public procurement law, stem from objectively justified needs of the contracting authority and – in all certainty – cannot pursue protectionist interests by limiting access to the procedure for contractors who do not meet certain LCRs.