bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum VEGF, high-sensitivity CRP, and cystatin-C assist in the diagnosis of type 2 diabetic retinopathy complicated with hyperuricemia
Authors: Wei Jing , Zhang Jincheng , Shi Yanan , Zhang Huiqin , Wu Yan
Published: December 2023

Elevated serum uric acid (UA) level is related to type 2 diabetic retinopathy (DR). Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and cystatin C (Cys-C) have involvement in type 2 DR complicated with hyperuricemia (HUA) (HUDR), and we explored their clinical values in HUDR. Type 2 DR patients were allocated into HUDR/DR groups, with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients as the control group. Serum VEGF and inflammation markers hs-CRP, and Cys-C levels were assessed by ELISA and immunoturbidimetry. The correlations between serum UA level and VEGF/hs-CRP/Cys-C were analyzed by Pearson tests, diagnostic values of VEGF/hs-CRP/Cys-C were analyzed by receiver operating characteristic curves, and the independent risk factors in HUDR were analyzed by logistic multivariate regression. Serum VEGF/hs-CRP/Cys-C level differences among the T2DM/DR/HUDR groups were statistically significant, with the levels in HUDR > DR > T2DM. Serum UA level in HUDR patients was positively correlated with serum VEGF/hs-CRP/Cys-C. Serum VEGF/hs-CRP/Cys-C assisted in HUDR diagnosis, with their combination showing the greatest diagnostic value. UA/FPG/HbA1C/VEGF/hs-CRP/Cys-C were independent risk factors for HUDR. The incidence of proliferative DR was increased in HUDR patients. Collectively, serum VEGF, hs-CRP, and Cys-C levels in HUDR patients were increased, and HUA might promote DR progression.
Parental involvement in online education during Covid-19 lockdown: a netnographic case study of Chinese language teaching in the UK
Authors: Li Luyao , Liu Xiaoli , Curdt-Christiansen Xiao Lan
Published: December 2023

This paper reports on a study of Chinese parents’ involvement in their children’s heritage language (HL) development during the COVID-19 lockdowns in the UK. Involving seven transnational families, we examined the roles parents played during the online learning sessions and the factors shaping their involvement. Employing a netnographic approach, this study incorporates online classroom observations, semi-structured and focus group interviews with parents, and analysis of their Instagram posts. The study underscores the critical role of parental involvement (PI) in enhancing children’s HL education, offering insights into distinct parental roles, including as emotional supporters, co-educators, teaching assistants, and technical supporters. The study introduces a three-dimensional PI model within the framework of family language policy (FLP), enhancing our understanding of FLP by concretely manifesting what, how and why parents get involved in their children’s HL development. This study contributes to the discourse on PI and FLP, shedding light on the evolving roles of parents and the complexity of their involvement during the unique circumstances of the pandemic.
Morphologies, structures, and properties on blends of triblock copolymers and linear low-density polyethylene
Authors: Wang Ying , Wu Shangfeng , Liu Li-Zhi , Chen Hao , Wang Yuanxia , Song Lixin , Shi Ying
Published: December 2023

Focusing on the study of the phase separation behavior of triblock copolymer and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) systems helps to understand the influence of microstructure on the properties of poly(vinylcyclohexane)-b- poly(ethylene)-b-poly(vinylcyclohexane) (PVCH-PE-PVCH/LLDPE) blends. We prepared a series of blends of LLDPE and PVCH-PE-PVCH and explained their compatibility from the microstructure. The research findings indicate that despite having similar block compositions, PVCH-PE-PVCH with a higher molecular weight exhibits significantly stronger phase separation and crystallization ability compared to PVCH-PE-PVCH with lower molecular weight. In PVCH-PE-PVCH/LLDPE blends, the addition of 10 %, 20 %, and 30 % LLDPE induces earlier crystallization and crystal phase separation of polyethylene (PE) fragments. In addition, compared to the lower molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH, the higher molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH exhibits a higher tendency for independent crystallization and shows significant crystal phase separation during the cooling crystallization process when blended with LLDPE. The PE segments in the lower molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH can more easily enter the nanoscale domain of LLDPE. Impact fracture electron microscopy also reveals better compatibility between the lower molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH and LLDPE compared to the higher molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH. Furthermore, the blends of lower molecular weight of PVCH-PE-PVCH and LLDPE exhibit a greater growth rate in elongation at break.
An Ascending Excitatory Circuit from the Dorsal Raphe for Sensory Modulation of Pain
Authors: Liu Di , Hu Su-Wan , Wang Di , Zhang Qi , Zhang Xiao , Ding Hai-Lei , Cao Jun-Li
Published: December 2023

The dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) is an important nucleus in pain regulation. However, the underlying neural pathway and the function of specific cell types remain unclear. Here, we report a previously unrecognized ascending facilitation pathway, the DRN to the mesoaccumbal dopamine (DA) circuit, for regulating pain. Chronic pain increased the activity of DRN glutamatergic, but not serotonergic, neurons projecting to the ventral tegmental area (VTA) (DRNGlu-VTA) in male mice. The optogenetic activation of DRNGlu-VTA circuit induced a pain-like response in naive male mice, and its inhibition produced an analgesic effect in male mice with neuropathic pain. Furthermore, we discovered that DRN ascending pathway regulated pain through strengthened excitatory transmission onto the VTA DA neurons projecting to the ventral part of nucleus accumbens medial shell (vNAcMed), thereby activated the mesoaccumbal DA neurons. Correspondingly, optogenetic manipulation of this three-node pathway bilaterally regulated pain behaviors. These findings identified a DRN ascending excitatory pathway that is crucial for pain sensory processing, which can potentially be exploited toward targeting pain disorders.
Neural Network Connectivity Following Opioid Dependence is Altered by a Common Genetic Variant in the µ-Opioid Receptor,OPRM1A118G
Authors: Xie Yihan , Brynildsen Julia K. , Windisch Kyle , Blendy Julie A.
Published: December 2023

Opioid use disorder is a chronic, relapsing disease associated with persistent changes in brain plasticity. A common single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the µ-opioid receptor gene,OPRM1A118G, is associated with altered vulnerability to opioid addiction. Reconfiguration of neuronal connectivity may explain dependence risk in individuals with this SNP. Mice with the equivalentOprm1variant, A112G, demonstrate sex-specific alterations in the rewarding properties of morphine and heroin. To determine whether this SNP influences network-level changes in neuronal activity, we compared FOS expression in male and female mice that were opioid-naive or opioid-dependent. Network analyses identified significant differences between the AA and GGOprm1genotypes. Based on several graph theory metrics, including small-world analysis and degree centrality, we show that GG females in the opioid-dependent state exhibit distinct patterns of connectivity compared to other groups of the same genotype. Using a network control theory approach, we identified key cortical brain regions that drive the transition between opioid-naive and opioid-dependent brain states; however, these regions are less influential in GG females leading to sixfold higher average minimum energy needed to transition from the acute to the dependent state. In addition, we found that the opioid-dependent brain state is significantly less stable in GG females compared to other groups. Collectively, our findings demonstrate sex- and genotype-specific modifications in local, mesoscale, and global properties of functional brain networks following opioid exposure and provide a framework for identifying genotype differences in specific brain regions that play a role in opioid dependence.
Observational study on seizures of marijuana, cocaine and crack in a city in the metropolitan region of Belo Horizonte
Authors: Costa Anna Carolina Moura , Freitas de Oliveira Lara Luiza , França Figueredo Coelho Júlia , Lorenna Souza Sales Thaís , Homero Huertas dos Santos Álvaro , Colén Fonseca Beatriz , Paulina Silva Castro Isabel , Jesus Marinho Adriane , Sanches Cristina , Drumond Chequer Farah Maria
Published: December 2023

It is estimated that 275 million people in the world between 15 and 64 years old used drugs of abuse in 2020. In the same year, the Brazilian Federal Police seized about 546,439.57 kg of marijuana and 91,234.87 kg of cocaine, demonstrating that the use and abuse of psychoactive substances are on the rise in everyday life. This study aimed to describe the profile of seizures of marijuana, cocaine and crack, carried out by the Civil Police, in the region of Betim in the state of Minas Gerais. This is a descriptive observational study, carried out on a documentary basis, in the years 2017 and 2018. The information was collected through the analysis of the final reports issued by the Betim Police Department, and the Social Defense Event Records (REDS). The results demonstrate that 568 definitive reports and REDS were analyzed, and the sociodemographic profile of the individual apprehended in connection with illicit drugs is composed mainly of men (86.4%), single (86.6%), with incomplete elementary education (33.2%), with a median age of 20 years. The 24 hour Police Station (88%) and the north region Police Station (22.7%) were where the largest seizures took place; illicit drug trafficking (85.6%) was the main crime related to these seizures, and marijuana was the most seized drug (51.1%). Knowledge of the profile of drug seizures in this region allows for the creation of prevention measures for the trafficking and use of illicit drugs, contributing to the improvement of public health and safety.
O uísque sob uma abordagem Forense: principais adulterações e técnicas analíticas de determinação
Authors: Rodrigues dos Santos Henrique , De Andrade Hartwig Carla
Published: December 2023

O uísque é uma das bebidas alcoólicas mais consumidas no mundo. Esse amplo e lucrativo mercado é alvo constante de adulterações dos mais variados métodos, desde troca ou modificações de rótulos e simples adições de água, até a completa falsificação da bebida, usando os mais diversos produtos químicos que em sua maioria são tóxicos e perigosos à saúde humana. Assim, diversas técnicas são utilizadas e métodos são desenvolvidos para a análise de quaisquer amostras de uísque suspeitas, a fim de identificar possíveis adulterações e auxiliar a justiça. A maioria das técnicas se direcionam a análise de congêneres e concentrações de etanol em uísques. O emprego de métodos estatísticos para o tratamento dos dados gerados pelos equipamentos analíticos permite uma maior rapidez na análise, além de se poder catalogar as amostras. Este artigo de revisão sistemática teve o objetivo de identificar as principais adulterações e procurar na literatura científica recente (2010-2022), as técnicas mais utilizadas para a análise de uísques. A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados Google Acadêmico e Periódicos Capes, utilizando os termos “whisky” “adulteration”, “analytical techniques” e “falsified”. De forma geral, evidenciou-se que as análises de congêneres são realizadas através de métodos espectroscópicos e cromatográficos. Métodos colorimétricos são utilizados para quantificar as concentrações de etanol ou de corante caramelo. Algumas técnicas dispensam a diluição das amostras ou o preparo de amostras, podendo a amostra ser analisada diretamente da garrafa, diminuindo o custo e tempo. Ademais, os métodos desenvolvidos recentemente têm se mostrado muito úteis para as análises, e o avanço tecnológico das técnicas e métodos vêm atingindo um dos principais objetivos do desenvolvimento de novos métodos analíticos: rapidez, confiança e baixo custo. Assim, o desenvolvimento de novas técnicas analíticas, tem aumentando a segurança de produtores, comerciantes e consumidores em relação à falsificações de uísque.
Análise da evolução temporal e da dinâmica da lotação penitenciária na região Sudeste do Brasil: perfil do preso e levantamento dos agravos transmissíveis mais prevalentes
Authors: Guilherme Bonfioli Maysa , França Figueredo Coelho Júlia , Nascimento de Melo Saulo , De Moura Costa Anna Carolina , Silva Belo Vinícius , Drumond Chequer Farah Maria
Published: December 2023

A realidade penitenciária e o mercado de drogas são problemas importantes ao se considerarem a criminalidade e a segurança pública brasileira, com grande impacto econômico e na saúde.  O presente estudo descreve o perfil da população privada de liberdade na região Sudeste do Brasil entre 2009 e 2019, o perfil da população carcerária condenada por crimes relacionados a drogas, conforme a Lei n° 11.343/2006, e as doenças transmissíveis que acometem essa população. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo documental, com base em dados secundários dos relatórios emitidos pelo Sistema de Informação do Departamento Penitenciário Nacional (SISDEPEN) e pela Polícia Federal sobre a estatística de drogas apreendidas no Brasil. As variáveis estudadas foram sexo, faixa etária, escolaridade, cor, doenças transmissíveis prevalentes no meio penitenciário e a quantidade drogas apreendidas. O Sudeste é a região do país com o maior número de crimes relacionados a drogas e a terceira região com maior taxa de encarceramentos. Nessa região, a população privada de liberdade é majoritariamente do sexo masculino (92,4%), entre 18 e 24 anos (30,0%), de cor parda (41,5%) e com ensino fundamental incompleto (47,0%). A tuberculose foi a doença predominante no ambiente carcerário (30,4%). Destaca-se o aumento da população carcerária de indivíduos condenados por crimes relacionados a drogas e à quantidade de drogas ilícitas apreendidas, com maior proporção a maconha (29,5%), seguida pela cocaína (15,6%). Este estudo contribui para um melhor planejamento de políticas públicas voltadas a essa população, a fim de reduzir problemas sociais associados e evitar maiores danos à comunidade como um todo.
Análise da percepção dos profissionais de segurança pública de São Paulo sobre a preservação de local de crime como parte essencial da cadeia de custódia.
Authors: Pedroso Ferreira Carolina
Published: December 2023

O objetivo desse estudo é analisar a percepção dos profissionais de segurança pública do Estado de São Paulo sobre a preservação do local de crime como parte essencial da cadeia de custódia, para promover uma prova pericial idônea, íntegra e confiável. Diante disso, foi realizado um questionário online, buscando demonstrar a realidade praticada no dia a dia do policial em locais de crime, com o objetivo de oferecer informações que possam ser utilizadas para demonstrar a falta de percepção sobre a importância de um local preservado para a manutenção da cadeia de custódia e, consequentemente, para a integridade e idoneidade da prova pericial no Estado de São Paulo, o resultado das respostas obtidas mostra que os policiais compreendem a importância da preservação do local para a produção da prova, porém ocorre falta de conhecimento e instrução sobre a cadeia de custódia, seu fiel cumprimento e as atuações na prática, principalmente pelos profissionais inseridos na polícia ostensiva, resultando na produção de locais não preservados adequadamente. Destarte, conclui-se que para a produção de uma prova pericial que contribua significativamente para promoção da justiça, deve-se buscar medidas que promova a integração entre os policiais e instruções sobre a cadeia de custódia para que se cumpra adequadamente as suas etapas, elucidando o fato criminoso.
The Murder of Shireen Abu Akleh: How Does Law Protect the Journalist in a War?
Authors: Gunawan Yordan , Ihsan Fawaz Muhammad , Anderson Paulo Andres
Published: December 2023

Shireen Abu Akleh, an esteemed Al Jazeera journalist, was sadly killed by Israeli army gunfire in May 2022 while reporting on the Israel-Palestine military war. To pursue justice for this horrific act, the Palestinian administration filed a formal complaint with the International Criminal Court (ICC). Despite the presence of strong proof, the Israeli government maintains that the charges are false. This study looks thoroughly into the Abu Akleh murder case, examining it from the standpoint of international law. Using normative legal research methods, the paper thoroughly examines the historical features of the murder as well as the legal procedures specified by international law to assure the administration of justice. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the critical importance of the Palestinian government's ICC complaint as a critical first step in initiating the judicial procedure. Notably, the United Nations has formally declared the Israeli army guilty of Abu Akleh's death, heightening the gravity of the situation. This research states categorically that the Israeli government must be held liable for this heinous act after exhaustively evaluating the most recent facts and prestigious international legal frameworks. It is fervently hoped that by unraveling the multifaceted dimensions inherent in this case, justice will ultimately prevail, steadfastly reaffirming the indispensable principles that safeguard press freedom and protect journalists worldwide, including within Indonesia as an integral member of the international community.
Legal Protection for Children as Victims of Economic Exploitation: Problems and Challenges in Three Major ASEAN Countries (Indonesia, Vietnam and Philippines)
Authors: Utari Indah Sri , Ramada Diandra Preludio , Arifin Ridwan , Smith Robert Brian
Published: December 2023

This research critically examines the legal safeguards for children facing economic exploitation in three prominent ASEAN countries: Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Despite the presence of protective legislation in these nations, the effective implementation of these laws encounters significant obstacles. In Indonesia, diverse regulations intended to shield children from economic exploitation coexist with the persistent issue of child labor. The continued prevalence of child labor is attributed to inadequate enforcement of labor laws and a general lack of community awareness regarding children's rights. Vietnam, while boasting a relatively comprehensive legal framework against child labor, faces challenges in certain rural areas where instances persist due to entrenched issues like poverty, cultural traditions, and limited access to education. Moreover, in the Philippines, the government has implemented measures such as the Child Labor Law and the Anti-Child Trafficking Act to protect children from economic exploitation. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives is impeded by resource constraints, corruption, and limited community awareness. In conclusion, this study reveals that legal protection for children in Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines is hindered by a range of challenges, including deficient enforcement mechanisms, enduring cultural traditions, widespread poverty, systemic corruption, and limited community awareness. Addressing these complex issues requires collaborative efforts from governments, civil society, and communities to ensure the robust protection of children's rights.
Comparative Analysis of Malaysian and Indonesian Retirement Plan
Authors: Shah Nurin Athirah Mohd Alam , Nasrul Muhammad Amrullah , Rahman Siti Fatimah Binti Abd. , Seviyana Devi
Published: December 2023

In Malaysia, the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) was established Under the Employees Provident Fund Act 1991 as a social security organisation that offers members trustworthy and efficient savings management and it is open to both personnel. In contrast, the Private Pension Administrator (PPA) developed the Private Retirement Scheme (PRS), a retirement programme, to address retirees' insufficient resources for meeting their retirement expenses in light of rising living standards and longer life expectancies. Having to see the similar aspects between EPF and PRS in terms of creating savings and their importance towards securing a certain degree of comfort for retirees, the purpose of this study is to provide a thorough explanation of how these two retirement plans can benefit all Malaysian private employees. Similar to Malaysia, all private sector workers in Indonesia are also required to participate in retirement plan. Thus, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the similarities and differences between Malaysia's and Indonesia's retirement plan. This research employs a qualitative approach, by conducting library-based research on the relevant materials including, but not limited to statutory provisions, case laws, law textbooks, journal articles, newspapers, conference proceedings, and seminar papers. At the end of the discussion, the findings show that both countries have their own retirement plans and have the same goal which is to provide facilities to all private-sector workers.
Legal Protection of The Right to Health for People with Long-term Health Impact due to Disaster in Indonesia
Authors: Purba Iman Pasu Marganda Hadiarto , Silitonga Hanna Tabita Hasianna , Tauran Tauran , Widianti Alifia
Published: December 2023

Many disaster events occur in Indonesia which have an impact, especially on the health of the Indonesian people. Health impacts can occur directly and indirectly and some experience long-term impacts that affect their lives. The state cannot be absent in regulating various problems arising from disasters in Indonesia. Therefore, the legal regulation of the right to health for long-term health impact sufferers due to disaster Indonesia must be examined. The study used normative legal research, a study approach to legislation, and library research. State policy ensures that the right to health is realized through legal products (primary legal materials) reviewed and then described and analyzed in answering how to fulfill the right to health in Indonesia due to disaster. As a result, the Indonesian Government has already ensured the fulfillment of the right to health of every citizen. However, Government should issue advanced services regulations as soon as possible to regulate the handling of long-term health impact sufferers due to disaster in Indonesia.
MicroRNA-146b negatively affects bovine embryo development and quality
Authors: Pavani Krishna Chaitanya , XueFeng Guan , Chunduru Jayendra , Meese Tim , Peelman Luc J , Van Nieuwerburgh Filip , Deforce Dieter , Hendrix An , Tilleman Kelly , Van Soom Ann , Smits Katrien
Published: December 2023

In brief

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) carried in extracellular vesicles are one of the essential factors for embryo development. This study demonstrates that miRNA-146 b has negative impacts on the quality and development of bovine embryos and also shows its higher expression in non-blastocyst embryos and related EVs.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), which can be carried inside extracellular vesicles (EVs), play a crucial role in regulating embryo development up to the blastocyst stage. Yet, the molecular mechanisms underlying blastocyst development and quality are largely unknown. Recently, our group identified 69 differentially expressed miRNAs in extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from culture medium conditioned by bovine embryos that either developed to the blastocyst stage or did not (non-blastocysts). We found miR-146b to be more abundant in the EVs derived from media conditioned by non-blastocyst embryos. Using RT-qPCR, we here confirmed the upregulation of miR-146b in non-blastocyst (arrested at two- to four-cell and morula stage) embryos compared to blastocysts (P < 0.005), which coincides with the upregulation of miR-146b in EVs derived from the medium of these non-blastocysts. To evaluate a functional effect, bovine embryo culture media were supplemented with miR-146b mimics, resulting in significantly decreased embryo quality, with lower blastocyst rates at day 7 and lower total cell numbers, while the opposite was found after supplementation with miR-146b inhibitors, which resulted in reduced apoptosis rates (P < 0.01). Transcriptomic analysis of embryos treated with miR-146b mimics or inhibitors showed differential expression (P < 0.01) of genes associated with apoptosis, cell differentiation, and the RNA Pol II transcription complex, including WDR36, MBNL2, ERCC6l2, PYGO1, and SNIP1. Overall, miR-146b is overexpressed in non-blastocyst embryos and in EVs secreted by these embryos, and it regulates genes involved in embryo development and apoptosis, resulting in decreased embryo quality.
Neuropathie optique présumée secondaire à la consommation de cocaïne par voie nasale : rapport de cas
Authors: Joseph Jasmine
Published: December 2023

Les effets secondaires oculaires de la consommation de cocaïne par voie nasale sont rares, mais peuvent comprendre des changements épithéliaux de la cornée, des complications vasculaires de la rétine et une inflammation orbitaire. Ce rapport décrit le cas d’une femme noire de 54 ans qui consommait de la cocaïne de façon régulière et qui s’est présentée avec une perte de vision aiguë et indolore de l’œil droit et un œdème de la papille optique droite. Les propriétés sympathomimétiques de la cocaïne peuvent mener à une neuropathie optique ; par conséquent, les antécédents d’un patient en matière de consommation de drogues à des fins récréatives ne doivent pas être écartés lorsqu’on examine des étiologies potentielles.
Clinical Procedures: A New Test to Examine the Different Components in Subjective Monocular Refraction
Authors: Shapiro Jonathan
Published: December 2023

Significance: Subjective monocular refraction is the basis for determining an optometric prescription. A single testing target for determining the final prescription, by simultaneous viewing with a method to control testing error, simplifies the procedure, since the patient has  a better appreciation of the end-point and relates more easily to the examination.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify a test chart and method of examination to improve the efficiency of determining the correction of the astigmatic and spherical components of a prescription. The testing procedure uses an immediate comparison and avoids sequential testing that relies on memory.
A method of avoiding errors, caused by looking away from the optical centre, is included.
This is important in cases of high prescriptions. This method may be suitable for ancillary staff to use in the introductory testing routine.
Method: A single, non-movable test chart, independent of the circle of least confusion, is presented. The target is based on the simultaneous resolution of a line in four meridians. A second chart is incorporated into the principal chart. This uses chromatic displacement caused by the off-centre viewing of a prism to avoid errors.
Result: This testing method, when used in the clinic, has been shown to be efficient and easily understood. A limited independent trial showed that the method is as effective as traditional methods and gives acceptable results when used by ancillary staff. The results obtained by non-experienced individuals are also presented. This may be useful in environments where no professional staff are available.
Conclusion: The method described here improves the examination of subjective refraction without the need to change targets. There is no need to consider the circle of least confusion. The target includes tests for axis, cylinder power, spherical power and duochrome. The use of a simultaneous comparison is better received by patients than the sequential test, and is easily understood. The spherical end-point is definite, unless there is hyper-acuity or accommodative spasm. The test improves the ability of the patient to understand, and be comfortable with, the testing method. Binocular balance is not considered here.
Fundamentos para una ciencia de la hipercomplejidad I
Authors: Baraona Cockerell Miguel
Published: December 2023

The indiscriminate use —and quite inconsistent— in the abusive repetition of words such as complexity, interdiscipline, and transdiscipline turns the intellectual terrain evoked by these

vocables increasingly vacuous and useless. As so many other popular terms in the history of the Social Sciences during the XXth and XXIst centuries, whose conceptualization was weak buy attractive for its ubiquity which transformed them into intellectual they morphed into fashionable words with little or no usage or validity whatsoever for a rigorous analysis of social phenomena to which they were supposed to be applied. In this sketchy summary of ideas, we will propose a usage which we think will allow to establish and formulate in a more solid manner these notions (complexity, interdiscipline, transdiscipline), transforming them in conceptual instruments for analytic tasks in present day sociology, within the appropriate epistemological framework for the study of hypercomplex systems; which are, in fact, a superior and peculiar category of complex systems.
Perforated Meckel´s diverticulum in large omphalocele: a case report
Authors: Velasco-Villanueva Sergio , K Trejo-Olguín Ana
Published: December 2023

Omphalocele is a midline abdominal wall defect that can be associated with other abnormalities. In this case report, we present a case of a newborn male with a perforated Meckel's diverticulum adherent within an omphalocele and intestinal malrotation; a very few cases of the coexistence of Omphalocele and Meckel's diverticulum have been described, so we highlight the multidisciplinary management. Consent to publish the case report was not obtained. This report does not contain any personal information that could lead to the identification of the patient. Since this is a case report we didn’t use any statistical tool. The validity and reliability of this case due to its detailed clinical account, citation of existing literature, and adherence to established medical knowledge.
PYROXENES OF ALKALINE-ULTRABASIC ROCKS FROM NORTH-WESTERN PART OF THE UKRAINIAN SHIELD
Authors: Tsymbal O.Yu. , Kryvdik S.G.
Published: December 2023

In alkaline-ultrabasic rocks from North-Western part of the Ukrainian Shield pyroxenes are predominantly presented by diopsides with various contents of Cr2O3 (up to 2.4%, chrome diopside), Na2O and Al2O3 (to 7.6%). But correlation between contents of Al2O3 and Na2O generally is absent except two samples. Natrium goes into composition of acmite, cosmochlore or jadeite minals. In pyroxenes with high Al2O3 aluminum goes into tetrahedral positions. Pyroxenes (include aegirines) with increase TiO2 content (to 1.5%) rarely occur. Aegirine and intermediate between latter and diopside aegirine-diopsides have limited development. They could crystallize in at least eroded dike rocks that consist of melteigite porphyres with high agpaicity ((Na+K)/Al ≈1). Majority of studied pyroxenes crystallized from magnesian (to 22% MgO) primitive alkaline-ultrabasic melts in hypabyssal intrusions. It is supposed that limited amount of intermediate aegirine-diopsides or a gap in series diopside-aegirine is caused by the crystallization of alkaline and subalkaline amphiboles.
THERMOBAROGEOCHEMICAL FUNDAMENTALS AND APPLIED POSSIBILITIES OF LOCAL FORECAST, RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT OF POST-MAGMATIC MINERALIZATION
Authors: Pavlun M.M.
Published: December 2023

Important issues of local forecasting, search and assessment of post-magmatic mineralization during various stages of geological exploration are analysed on a thermobarogeochemical (TBGC) basis. The theoretical basis of TBGC-forecasting, exploration and assessment of mineralization is the stability of the regime of physical-chemical conditions for the formation of productive mineral paragenesis. They are formed in a fairly narrow range of TBGC-parameters changes of the specific to chemical composition and aggregate-density state of ore-forming medium at certain (optimal) temperature and pressure values. This is revealed in the phase typomorphism of the respective families of fluid inclusions practically regardless of geotectonic conditions and metallogenic specialization of the ore regions. For example, the molybdenum-tungsten formation of the greisen type is characterized by the following: alkaline-halogen (fluoride-chloride-potassium-sodium) composition of inclusions with a high salt concentration (65-35 wt.% NaCl), and the spread of syngenetic families of inclusions with minerals-"prisoners" (which testify to the boiling processes of solutions) and solutions of inclusions of critical density. On the other hand, in gold ore formations, the productive gold-bearing stages in the corresponding paragenesises contain water-carbon dioxide inclusions, which homogenize at 290-180°C under conditions of intensive heterogenization and degassing (СО2) of solutions with extremely different phase ratios (G-LСО2-Н2О; LСО2-LН2О; G-LСО2; LСО2-L; LСО2-GСО2). Fluid inclusions of two- and one-phase CO2 with wide variations in density (from 1.02 to 0.4-0.1 g/cm3 for various depth formations) and simultaneous homogenization into liquid and gas phases (boiling) are common. So, we determine the distribution of molybdenum-tungsten or gold mineralization by the distribution of the corresponding families of syngenetic inclusions. An equally important prerequisite for the implementation of applied TBGC problems is the possibility of diagnosis and spatial extrapolation of these parameters (TBGC-zonation) with the determination of the spatial position of zones that are physically and chemically favourable for the development of post-magmatic mineralization. Such tools can be the vertical paleotemperature gradient ∆Т/100 m and its inverse functional relationship with the vertical spread of mineralization, the ratio of the amount of reduced gases to the amount of oxidized gases, etc. Specific examples of mineralization forecasting, search, and assessment using the genetic features of the deposit and the complex application of TBGC-criteria for spatial-temporal modelling of mineralization distribution are given.
MOLYBDENUM MINERALIZATION OF THE HANNIVKA DEPOSIT, KRYVYI RIH STRUCTURE
Authors: Sukach V.V. , Baryatska N.V. , Bondarenko S.M. , Syomka V.O. , Khomych Yu.E. , Reshetnyk M.M. , Kotenko M.S.
Published: December 2023

The Hannivka molybdenum deposit is located in the northeastern side of the Kryvyi Rih structure, within the East Hannivka monocline. Molybdenum mineralization is confined to the contact zone of granitoids of the Demuryne complex with metabasites of the Novokryvorizka suite. The main volume of molybdenum mineralization is concentrated in the exocontact, in metabasites, and only 10-15% in endocontact granitoids. The molybdenum-bearing zone is represented by schistose, moderately quartzized and biotitized fine-grained metabasalts, which contain quartz, epidote-quartz, epidote, sometimes feldspar-quartz veins and veinlets and moderate (0.5-3%) sulfide mineralization. The volume of vein material ranges from 0.5% to 3-5%. The geological-morphological type of mineralization is defined as linear stockwork. Leading processes responsible for the development of molybdenite are quartzization and biotitization, namely silicic-alkaline metasomatism. Using JSM-6700F і JXСА-733 electron microscopes, the following ore minerals have been diagnosed and studied: magnetite, ilmenite, molybdenite, loellingite, arsenopyrite, pyrrhotite, pyrite, chalcopyrite, sphalerite. Based on their structural positions and relationships, several successive ore stages have been identified: early oxide (ilmenite-magnetite), main sulfide with molybdenite, potentially gold-bearing arsenide-sulfoarsenide-sulfide and late sulfide. Molybdenite is localized in zalbands of thin (1-3 mm, occasionally up to 2 cm) quartz veinlets, sometimes in the form of boudinaged structures, lenses and pockets reaching sizes up to 4 cm, as well as in host metabasalts and plagiogranites. Conditionally, three morphological types of molybdenite can be distinguished: a) medium-sized elongated tabular, platy, and foliated crystals ranging in size from 0.1 mm to 1.5-2 mm, which are oriented subparallel to the vein structures and rock foliation; b) fine-grained (from 10-20 µm to 0.1 mm) elongated flakes uniformly or randomly oriented; с) isometric crystals of hexagonal-tabular habitus with sizes ranging from 0.1 to 0.7 mm. Outlined are several areas that require further investigation: epitaxial growths of molybdenite and silicates and the conditions of their formation, the time of formation of molybdenite and ore-generating granitoids.
Zonulin as a Biomarker for the Development of Celiac Disease
Authors: DaFonte Tracey M. , Valitutti Francesco , Kenyon Victoria , Locascio Joseph J. , Montuori Monica , Francavilla Ruggiero , Passaro Tiziana , Crocco Marco , Norsa Lorenzo , Piemontese Pasqua , Baldassarre Mariella , Fasano Alessio , Leonard Maureen M. ,   CD-GEMM Study Group
Published: December 2023

OBJECTIVES

Increased intestinal permeability seems to be a key factor in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, including celiac disease (CeD). However, it is unknown whether increased permeability precedes CeD onset. This study’s objective was to determine whether intestinal permeability is altered before celiac disease autoimmunity (CDA) in at-risk children. We also examined whether environmental factors impacted zonulin, a widely used marker of gut permeability.

METHODS

We evaluated 102 children in the CDGEMM study from 2014–2022. We included 51 CDA cases and matched controls, who were enrolled for 12 months or more and consumed gluten. We measured serum zonulin from age 12 months to time of CDA onset, and the corresponding time point in controls, and examined clinical factors of interest. We ran a mixed-effects longitudinal model with dependent variable zonulin.

RESULTS

Children who developed CDA had a significant increase in zonulin in the 18.3 months (range 6–78) preceding CDA compared to those without CDA (slope differential = β = 0.1277, 95% CI: 0.001, 0.255). Among metadata considered, zonulin trajectory was only influenced by increasing number of antibiotic courses, which increased the slope of trajectory of zonulin over time in CDA subjects (P = .04).

CONCLUSIONS

Zonulin levels significantly rise in the months that precede CDA diagnosis. Exposure to a greater number of antibiotic courses was associated with an increase in zonulin levels in CDA subjects. This suggests zonulin may be used as a biomarker for preclinical CeD screening in at-risk children, and multiple antibiotic courses may increase their risk of CDA by increasing zonulin levels.
pedagogia da variação linguística e a sociolinguística educacional trasladadas ao âmbito do português como língua adicional
Authors: Almeida Guimarães Miley Antonia
Published: December 2023

Como professoras e professores de português como língua adicional (PLA) aos que se interessam pelo português falado e escrito no Brasil, lidamos cotidianamente em sala de aula com a tríade norma-padrão gramatical, variedades de prestígio e variedades populares. Ao distanciamento entre o que vem prescrito nas gramáticas e as variedades de prestígio – resultante de uma atípica implementação de uma norma-padrão que já havia sido atualizada na antiga metrópole –, soma-se a alta estratificação social brasileira, com bens socioculturais deficientemente distribuídos e uma alta porcentagem da população restringindo-se ao uso de variedades populares e sujeita ao preconceito linguístico que o seu uso suscita. Como conscientizar o alunado de PLA a respeito de uma das mais importantes facetas da variação linguística brasileira, a de caráter sociocultural, de modo que adquira recursos linguísticos próprios de contextos de [+oralidade, -monitoramento], ao mesmo tempo que seja consciente das atitudes associadas a certos traços linguísticos? Apesar dos avanços brasileiros em políticas linguísticas em PLA, como a elaboração do documento Proposta curricular para ensino de português nas unidades da rede de ensino do Itamaraty em países de língua oficial espanhola (Brasil, 2020), o qual valida o ensino de variantes não padrão, carecemos ainda de teorização e metodologia para lidar em aula com uma pluralidade normativa própria de sociedades de alta estratificação econômica e sociocultural, como é o caso brasileiro. Argumenta-se aqui que a pedagogia da variação linguística (Faraco, 2008, 2015b) e a sociolinguística educacional (Bortoni-Ricardo, 2004, 2005), embora originalmente voltadas ao âmbito do ensino de português como língua materna, têm o potencial de formar-nós para o tratamento da variação linguística também no contexto de PLA. Ilustramos a viabilidade desta transposição teórico-metodológica ao âmbito por meio da elaboração de uma proposta para o ensino da variável “objeto direto anafórico de terceira pessoa”.
Study of the role of uterine leiomyoma in prognosis andtreatment of genital prolapse
Authors:   Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Baryshnikova O.P.
Published: December 2023

Uterine leiomyoma is one of the most common benign pelvic neoplasms in women. Uterine leiomyoma is diagnosed in perimenopausal or postmenopausal periods in more than 60% of cases. That is age category of women with a high frequency of genital prolapse with causes the frequent combination of these two pathologies. Purpose - to determine the role of uterine leiomyoma in the development and progression of genital prolapse. Materials and methods. A retrospective cohort study was conducted. It included 240 consecutively recruited patients, including: 117 women with prolapses of the internal genital organs, who made up the study group, and 123 women with normal pelvic anatomy - the comparison group. Analysis of life history, family, somatic, reproductive, gynecological and obstetric history, definition of anthropometric data was carried out. Statistical data processing was carried out using the SPSS 21 program. Results. According to the results of multivariate regression analysis, significant risk factors for the development of genital prolapse are: age, sedentary lifestyle, excessive physical activity, family history of genital prolapse, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, uterine leiomyoma, number of pregnancies, spontaneous miscarriages in the early stages, number of deliveries, age of first childbirth, total number of intrauterine manipulations, perineal tears. Conclusions. Uterine leiomyoma is an independent risk factor for the development of genital prolapse (odds ratio: 5.93; 95% confidence interval: 1.77-19.91). The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.
Heterotopia of the gastric mucosa in the esophagus among children (cases from practice)
Authors:   0000-0003-2489-1824, Pavlykivska B.M. , Palyvoda A.P. ,   Treatment and diagnostic center «St. Luke’s Clinic», Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, Kocherha Z.R. ,   Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ukraine
Published: December 2023

Heterotopia of the gastric mucosa (inlet patch) is an atypical placement of the gastric mucosa in the upper or middle parts of the esophagus, a congenital anomaly that occurs as a result of a violation of tissue differentiation at an early embryonic stage, approximately at 4th week of intrauterine development. Heterotopic gastric mucosa in the upper part of the esophagus is observed in adults in all age groups, its frequency ranges from 0.1% to 3.8%. The frequency of occurrence of this condition among children has been insufficiently studied. Purpose - based on the analysis of clinical data, to familiarize doctors with cases of the inlet patch in the esophagus in children with recurrent dyspeptic and respiratory symptoms, regardless of the treatment. Clinical cases. Cases of the inlet patch among adolescents with long-term dyspeptic and respiratory disorders are described. When conducting an endoscopic examination, the patients revealed spots of the inlet patch in the esophagus. Therefore, in patients with symptoms of upper esophageal dysphagia (lump in the throat, heartburn, sour taste, dysphagia, odynophagia, etc.), a gastroscopic examination should be performed especially carefully. The use of endoscopes with high resolution and electronic chronoscopy creates additional diagnostic possibilities when the іnlet patch is detected. Conclusions. Heterotopic mucosa of the upper esophagus in childhood is diagnosed during fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy for dyspeptic and espiratory disorders. A diverse clinical picture in the presence of spots in the inlet patch of the esophagus is caused by the production of hydrochloric acid by heterotopic cells of the gastric mucosa. Despite having treated patients who have complaints of recurrent dyspeptic and respiratory symptoms, one should be alert for a possible inlet patch during endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Informed consent of parents and children was obtained for the study. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.
Congenital heart diseases: frequency, causes, predictors of placental and fetal disorders
Authors:   National Children’s Specialized Hospital “OKHMATDYT”, Kyiv, Ukraine, Galagan V.O. , Lakatosh V.P. ,   Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: December 2023

Today, cardiovascular disease remains one of the main causes of morbidity, mortality and early disability in the population. Congenital heart diseases (CHD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality (up to 30%) and is one of the most severe conditions - multiple congenital malformations in children. Purpose - to analyze the literature data on the frequency of CHD, their causes, characteristics of the functioning of the fetoplacental system, and the importance of placental factors as markers of placental-fetal disorders to improve the effectiveness of prenatal diagnosis of heart defects and provide specialized medical care to pregnant women. A brief review of markers of early placental abnormalities and the development of heart defects, such as placental growth factor (PIGF), soluble form of fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), placental lactogen, and others, is provided. Given the significant proportion of fetoplacental insufficiency and CHD as the cause of perinatal losses, it is advisable to search for both genetic and morphological factors of their occurrence, which will improve prenatal diagnosis and the level of specialized care for pregnant women and children. Conclusions. The provided review of the literature indicated the possible causes of the occurrence of CHD, highlighted the relevance of the problem, which is primarily associated with a significant frequency of cardiovascular pathology and violations of the relationship and functioning of the fetoplacental system. Among the causes of congenital heart defects, multifactorial pathology has the greatest specific weight, the solution of the problem of diagnosis of which requires the combined action of obstetric-gynecological, cardiology, medical-genetic and pathomorphological services. Determination of placental factors PlGF and sFlt-1 in the blood can be recommended as criteria for prenatal diagnosis of defects of the cardiovascular system. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.