bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative, but not preoperative, central corneal thickness correlates with the postoperative visual outcomes of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty
Authors: Moskwa Remi , Bloch Florian , Vermion Jean-Charles , Zevering Yinka , Chaussard Dimitri , Nesseler Alice , Goetz Christophe , Perone Jean-Marc
Published: March 2023

Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) restores visual acuity in patients with progressive corneal endothelial diseases such as Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). However, patients often prefer to delay the surgery as long as possible, even though outcomes are poorer in advanced FECD. A recent study proposed that preoperative central corneal thickness (CCT) of ≥625 μm associated with worse best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) after DMEK for FECD. Since this threshold could signal to both surgeons and patients when to perform DMEK, we further explored the relationship between CCT and BSCVA with a retrospective cohort study. The cohort consisted of all patients with FECD who underwent DMEK in a tertiary-care hospital in 2015–2020 and were followed for 12 months. Extremely decompensated corneas were not included. Relationships between preoperative CCT and BSCVA on days 8 and 15 and months 1, 3, 6, and 12 were examined with Pearson correlation analyses. Eyes with preoperative CCT <625 or ≥625 μm were also compared in terms of postoperative BSCVA. Relationships between postoperative CCT and final BSCVA were also explored. The cohort consisted of 124 first-operated eyes. Preoperative CCT did not correlate with postoperative BSCVA at any timepoint. Eye subgroups did not differ in postoperative BSCVA. However, postoperative CCT at 1–12 months correlated significantly with 12-month BSCVA (r = 0.29–0.49, p = 0.020–0.001). Thus, postoperative, but not preoperative, CCT correlated with postoperative BSCVA. This phenomenon may reflect factors that distort preoperative CCT measurements but disappear after surgery. This observation and our analysis of the literature suggest that while there is a relationship between CCT and post-DMEK visual acuity, preoperative CCT measurements may not always adequately reflect that relationship and may therefore not be a reliable predictor of DMEK visual outcomes.
Gold and silver as safe havens: A fractional integration and cointegration analysis
Authors: Caporale Guglielmo Maria , Gil-Alana Luis Alberiko
Published: March 2023

This paper investigates whether gold and silver can be considered safe havens by examining their long-run linkages with 13 stock price indices. More specifically, the stochastic properties of the differential between gold/silver prices and 13 stock indices are analysed applying fractional integration/cointegration methods to daily data, first for a sample from January 2010 until December 2019, then for one from January 2020 until June 2022 which includes the Covid-19 pandemic. The results can be summarised as follows. In the case of the pre-Covid-19 sample ending in December 2019, mean reversion is found for the gold price differential only vis-à-vis a single stock index (SP500). whilst in seven other cases, although the estimated value of d is below 1, the value 1 is inside the confidence interval and thus the unit root null hypothesis cannot be rejected. In the remaining cases the estimated values of d are significantly higher than 1. As for the silver differential, the upper bound is 1 only in two cases, whilst in the others mean reversion does not occur. Thus, the evidence is mixed on whether these precious metals can be seen as safe havens, though it appears that this property characterises gold in a slightly higher number of cases. By contrast, when using the sample starting in January 2020, the evidence in favour of gold and silver as possible safe havens is pretty conclusive since mean reversion is only found in a single case, namely that of the gold differential vis-à-vis the New Zealand stock index.
Risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma due to occupational exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Paulo Marília Silva , Symanzik Cara , Ádam Balázs , Gobba Fabriziomaria , Kezic Sanja , van der Molen Henk F. , Peters Cheryl E. , Rocholl Marc , Tenkate Thomas , John Swen Malte , Loney Tom , Modenese Alberto , Wittlich Marc
Published: March 2023

Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the most significant occupational carcinogenic exposure in terms of the number of workers exposed (i.e., outdoor workers). Consequently, solar UVR-induced skin cancers are among the most common forms of occupational malignancies that are potentially expected globally. This systematic review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021295221) and aims to assess the risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) associated to occupational solar UVR exposure. Systematic searches will be performed in three electronic literature databases (PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, and Scopus). Further references will be retrieved by a manual search (e.g., in grey literature databases, internet search engines, and organizational websites). We will include cohort studies and case-control studies. Risk of Bias assessment will be conducted separately for case-control and cohort studies. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) will be used for the certainty of assessment. In case quantitative pooling is not feasible, a narrative synthesis of results will be performed.
Collagenous Gastritis: A Cause of Pediatric Iron Deficiency Anemia
Authors: Blackmore Conner , Leach Margaret
Published: March 2023

Collagenous gastritis (CG) is a rare histopathological condition characterized by subepithelial collagen deposition and inflammatory infiltrates in the gastric mucosa. With less than 100 cases reported in current literature, clinical presentation is highly variable. We report a case of isolated CG in an 11-year-old girl who presented with a 6-month history of symptomatic severe iron deficiency anemia (nonexertional shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pain, and lethargy). CG is a rare condition in children require long-term follow-up and monitoring of their disease; and because of its rarity, a targeted treatment does not exist. The current therapeutic strategy is focused on symptom control and monitoring iron studies, in conjunction with regular follow-up.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding Secondary to Splenic Artery Pseudoaneurysm: A Delayed Complication of a Lumen-Apposing Metal Stent
Authors: Moin Aleena , Iqbal Umair , Khara Harshit S. , Diehl David L. , Montecalvo Nicholas , Confer Bradley D.
Published: March 2023

Lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMSs) have been widely used for drainage of peripancreatic collections. A 71-year-old woman with a history of necrotizing pancreatitis who underwent LAMS placement 3 months ago for symptomatic pancreatic fluid collection presented with hematochezia and hemodynamic instability. Computed tomographic angiography of the abdomen showed concerns for stent erosion into the splenic artery. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed a large pulsating nonbleeding vessel within the LAMS. She underwent a mesenteric angiogram, which showed splenic artery pseudoaneurysm, and coil embolization was performed. Gastrointestinal bleeding secondary to pseudoaneurysm should be considered in patients with recent LAMS placement who present with signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma of the Cecum
Authors: Azad Farhan , Miranda Clive Jude , Ali Murad , Ayaz Muddasir
Published: March 2023

Lymphoma when arising from sites other than lymph nodes is termed extranodal lymphoma, commonly affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Primary colorectal lymphoma is a rare phenomenon among malignancies affecting the colon. We report a case of a patient with a history of Burkitt lymphoma in remission, presenting with a large cecal mass and a new diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma treated with chemotherapy.
How the implementation of a manufacturing execution system can improve shop floor management and increase productivity
Authors: Michelon Micael
Published: March 2023

This article seek to analyze and to describe the results obtained through the implementation of a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and how this appliance can contribute to the improvement of the methodology Shop Floor Management (SFM) and increasing the productivity. The present case study was accomplished in a foundry company, the methodology used was the qualitative research with exploratory feature. Through the MES system and elements of methodology SFM, the organization of this case study can gather data and obtain information in real time of your productive resources, in this way the company can identify the main reasons of inefficiencies and take actions about them. The monitored sector obtains positive results in production management and significant increases in productivity.
Redução de perdas em frigorífico de aves por meio do Método de Análise e Solução de Problemas (MASP)
Authors: Pereira Milene Oliveira , Silva Bruna Pires da
Published: March 2023

Os frigoríficos precisam aperfeiçoar processos, visando manter competitividade, reduzindo custos e, ao mesmo tempo, atendendo às expectativas do mercado, que estão relacionadas ao cumprimento de rígidos padrões de qualidade. Ao longo do processo produtivo de um frigorífico de aves há muitas perdas, devido ao fluxo de produção ser contínuo, e o processo ser compostos por muitas etapas, resultando em diversas variáveis de processo. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste trabalho foi aplicar o Método de Análise e Solução de Problemas (MASP), apoiado no ciclo PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) para reduzir perdas no setor de embalagem de frango inteiro. Foram aplicadas todas as etapas do ciclo, iniciando pelo planejamento, posteriormente a implantação das soluções e por fim, checagem dos resultados e padronização do processo. A partir do entendimento operacional do processo, e da identificação dos detalhes e parâmetros de controle envolvidos em cada um deles, foi possível encontrar as causas fundamentais que geram perdas na área de embalagem de frango inteiro. A implementação do plano de ação e a padronização das ações permitiram reduzir em 37,5% o indicador de perdas no processo de produção de frango inteiro, permitindo aumento de produtividade e, consequentemente, os ganhos financeiros da companhia.
Aplicação de balanceamento de linha otimizado considerando previsão de demanda e redes neurais artificiais
Authors: Moraes Nathalia Tessari , Corso Leandro Luís
Published: March 2023

Ter um modelo de balanceamento de linha vinculado às oscilações de demanda pode contribuir diretamente na tão importante redução de custos atrelados à manufatura. Com as organizações sofrendo cada vez mais transformações e confrontando-se com elevada competitividade, é imprescindível adotar métodos quantitativos e processos otimizados que garantam maior eficiência no gerenciamento de recursos. Antever o comportamento do mercado não é uma tarefa simples, principalmente quando há alta variabilidade de demanda. Desta forma, é importante considerar modelos matemáticos robustos com configurações otimizadas para que sejam capazes de reconhecer padrões, a fim de predizer o volume de vendas com menor erro possível. Diante disso, foram utilizados os dados históricos de vendas dos cinco principais produtos de uma multinacional, aqueles que representam maior lucro, e foram calculadas as demandas por meio dos modelos de média móvel, suavização exponencial, Box-Jenkins e RNA. Após, com o intuito de escolher o método mais acurado, ou seja, que apresenta o menor erro, foi calculado isoladamente os erros de cada um dos métodos utilizados (RMSE, MAE e MAPE) possibilitando assim a comparação entre eles. Diante do resultado obtido, modelou-se o balanceamento das linhas de montagem em que são produzidos os produtos, calculou-se, por meio de um modelo matemático de programação não linear, o número adequado de funcionários para a demanda prevista, tendo como principal objetivo melhorar a eficiência atual por meio da organização das linhas. Sendo assim, constatou-se que as RNAs representaram maior acurácia para a previsão de demanda e que, em comparação com o atual método utilizado pela empresa, mostrou-se ser um método mais confiável de predição de quantidades para planejamento de recursos. Após, visualizou-se que o método de balanceamento desenvolvido trouxe importantes adequações de recursos acarretando, assim, o aumento na eficiência das linhas de produção em um percentual de 29%, o que se considera bastante satisfatório.
Peculiarities of surgical treatment of atrial macro reentry tachyarrhythmia in elderly patients with implanted pacemaker
Authors: Yakushev A. V. , Lozovoy O. A.
Published: March 2023

Atrial macro reentry tachycardias are the most common tachyarrhythmias in the structure of cardiac arrhythmias in the elderly. Catheter ablations are the gold standard for the treatment of atrial macro reentry arrhythmias, but in the elderly group, the risks of complex ablations often outweigh the benefits.
Aim: to determine the optimal volume of catheter ablation in atrial tachyarrhythmia using an implanted pacemaker in elderly patients.
Materials and methods. The work is based on a retrospective analysis of the results of surgical treatment of (n = 45) elderly patients (75–90 years) with atrial macro reentry tachycardia, who were previously identified as an artificial pacemaker at the National M. Amosov Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery Affiliated to National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine. Patients were divided into 3 groups depending on the response of the reentry tachycardia to electrical pacing (assessed by the difference between postpacing interval (PPI) and tachycardia cycle lens (CL): group І – PPI-CL 20–40 ms; group ІІ – PPI–CL 20–40 ms; group ІІІ – PPI-CL 60 ms and more.
Results. In the group I (n = 20) in 100 % of the patients isthmus-dependent reentry tachyarrhythmia was diagnosed and cava-tricuspid isthmus was ablated. In the group ІІ (n = 12) 4 (33 %) patients were diagnosed with reentry tachycardia around the right pulmonary veins, in 8 (67 %) patients – reentrant tachycardia around the mitral valve. In the group ІІІ (n = 13) in 8 (62 %) patients macro reentry around the mitral valve was found, in 3 (23 %) – reentry around the left pulmonary veins, in another 2 (15 %) of the patients – reentry of the left atrial roof.
Conclusions. Non-invasive electrophysiological study with pacemaker can be an effective way to study atrial macro reentry tachyarrhythmias. Electrophysiological PPI-SI criteria less than 20 ms can be used as an additional diagnostic criterion for the selection of patients for surgical treatment. Catheter ablation is recommended for elderly patients when the reentry circle is located in the right atrium.
Experience of the treatment of combat injuries of the maxillofacial area with titanium implants in the conditions of modern war
Authors: Ivchenko D. V. , Varzhapetian S. D. , Mishchenko O. M. , Sydor O. V. , Petrenko Yu. M. , Yatsun Ye. V. , Strohanova T. V.
Published: March 2023

The aim. To research some features of a combat injury of the jaw-facial region and possible options of surgical treatment using titanium implants.
Materials and methods. We investigated clinical cases of the treatment of high-speed combat injuries of the maxillofacial area in the department of maxillofacial surgery with otolaryngological beds of Municipal Non-Commercial Enterprise “City Hospital of Emergency and Urgent Medical Care of the Zaporizhzhia City Council”.
Results. Postoperative follow-up of the patients affected by high-velocity projectile showed positive treatment outcomes in all observations.
The negative consequences of the trauma revealed in the postoperative period were persistent paralysis of facial muscles, lower jaw dysfunction with limited mouth opening, necrosis of the damaged tissues of the oral cavity, necrosis and suppuration of tissues around the wounds, formation of deforming scars and fistulas, sequestration. The most common functional disorders as a result of injury were paralysis of the facial muscles and mandibular dysfunction which were observed in 100 % of our cases.
Sequestration of the bone fragments was observed in only one case, only one patient showed all the above mentioned negative pathological consequences of high-speed trauma.
Conclusions. Our experience in the treatment of high-velocity gunshot wounds at the face leads to the conclusion that the results of the treatment and the choice of surgical tactics depend primarily on the severity of the wound and the degree of destruction of soft and bone tissues of the face. The great variety of the nature of injuries does not allow determining of a “golden standard” for final surgical treatment.
Pathogenetic justification of sacubitril / valsartan use in respiratory-cardial comorbidity
Authors: Ashcheulova T. V. , Kompaniiets K. M. , Herasymchuk N. M. , Sytina I. V.
Published: March 2023

Among the comorbid conditions that significantly worsen quality of life and life expectancy are the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure. Difficulties of drug therapy are the mutually exclusive approaches in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and concomitant cardiovascular pathology.
Aim of this study was to provide scientific evidence of the possible use of the combined drug LCZ696 (angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor, ARNI), which contains neprilysin inhibitor sacubitril (AHU377) and angiotensin II blocker valsartan, in patients with congestive heart failure.
The article presents a review of the literature. It was demonstrated that the cause of mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease could be both changes in the respiratory system and complications in the cardiovascular system. It has been shown that progressive chronic obstructive pulmonary disease leads to the formation of pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular hypertrophy, decrease in its systolic function, subsequent dilatation of the right ventricle, and development of right ventricular heart failure, which is one of the most serious and difficult tests in the treatment process. The further development of such a combined pathology is left ventricular heart failure.
The role of the system of natriuretic peptides, namely brain natriuretic peptide, brain natriuretic propeptide, C-type natriuretic peptide, and N-terminal precursor of C-type natriuretic peptide, as markers of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure has been discussed. Natriuretic peptide is currently a recognized marker of heart failure, the high value of which is achieved for determining the prognosis and stratification of the risk of heart failure. Natriuretic peptide acts as a vasodilator, provides antiproliferative activity through the G-dependent protein kinase pathway and promotes bronchodilation, causing the release of acetylcholine from bronchial epithelial cells.
Conclusions. All these properties suggest that natriuretic peptides may be a potential treatment in patients with cardiac complications and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The best way to prolong life of natriuretic peptide is to inhibit degradation of the natriuretic peptide with the neprilysin inhibitor sacubitril.
Search for potential hypoglycemic agents among potassium salts of 3-benzyl-8-substituted xanthines
Authors: Aleksandrova K. V. , Pruhlo Ye. S. , Mykhalchenko Ye. K. , Shkoda O. S. , Cherchesova O. Yu.
Published: March 2023

Nowadays, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) is a serious problem among the world’s population. Metabolic syndrome includes the so-called “deadly” quartet – hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus (diabetes mellitus), dyslipidemia and alimentary obesity.
After all, type 2 diabetes is included in the list of pathologies of the metabolic syndrome, it is important to find ways to alleviate the disease. Derivatives of such a heterocyclic system as xanthine are of great interest in this aspect.
The aim of the study was to explore the hypoglycemic activity of newly synthesized water-soluble derivatives of 3-benzyl-8-substituted xanthines.
Materials and methods. We obtained water-soluble potassium 3-benzyl-8-R-xanthin-7-ides, the structure and individuality of which were confirmed by a set of physical-chemical studies.
Results. The hypoglycemic effect of the newly synthesized compounds was assessed by an oral glucose tolerance test. The obtained data were processed using modern statistical in silico-methods.
Conclusions. The results of the hypoglycemic activity study among the potassium salts of 3-benzyl-8-substituted xanthine derivatives showed, that some new compounds are in close vicinity to the reference drug’s hypoglycemic action.
Study of the preferences of doctors and pharmacists regarding medicines for the treatment of diseases of the peripheral nervous system
Authors: Brytanova T. S. , Zarichna T. P. , Hotsulia A. S. , Shostak Yu. V.
Published: March 2023

The aim of the work is to assess the preferences of doctors and pharmaceutical workers regarding drugs for the treatment of diseases of the peripheral nervous system in order to optimize the medical supply of the population.
Materials and methods. Data from the State Register of Medicines of Ukraine, Compendium-online, questionnaires of neurologists and pharmaceutical workers were used in this research. The search systematic, analytical, qualimetric, comparative, statistical analyses were used in the work.
Results. The results of a survey of neurologists revealed that for the treatment of diseases of the peripheral nervous system (radiculopathy, radiculalgia) the most effective treatment regimen is that, which includes “Nucleo CMF Forte”, “Celtican” and “Myelofan”. The effectiveness and safety of the studied drugs were confirmed by qualimetric analysis. However, the results of consumer surveys showed that the latter prefer a treatment regimen that contains “Dicloberl”, “Ketanov” and “Dexalgin”. These drugs are the most irrational in terms of side effects and contraindications. For consumers, the importance of the pharmacological effect outweighs the effects on the body from the side effects of drugs.
Conclusions. The study of the preferences of doctors and pharmacists regarding medicines for the treatment of radiculopathy and radiculalgia was conducted. The most rational treatment regimens are identified, the effectiveness of which is confirmed by the method of qualitative analysis.
Synthesis and properties of 3-(ethylthio)-9-methyl-6-(alkylthio)pyrazolo[1,5-d][1,2,4]triazolo[3,4-f][1,2,4]triazines
Authors: Fedotov S. O. , Hotsulia A. S.
Published: March 2023

The combination of pyrazole and 1,2,4-triazole fragments in one structure makes it possible to achieve some success in creating potential biologically active compounds. Various factors contribute to this process. Among them, we can note the significant possibilities of chemical transformation involving these cycles, the simplicity, and reliability of methods, the creation of molecules with a certain level of bioavailability and the ability to influence a number of biochemical processes. Taking into account the presented facts, the creation of new compounds in a number of pyrazolo-triazole condensed systems is scientifically attractive with endowed features of practical significance and relevance.
The aim of the work was to identify optimal conditions for the production of 3-(ethylthio)-9-methyl-6-(alkylthio)pyrazolo[1,5-d][1,2,4]triazolo[3,4-f][1,2,4]triazines and to study the properties of the target reaction products.
Materials and methods. The chemical part of the work involved the step-by-step creation of target reaction products in the form of 3-(ethylthio)-9-methyl-6-(alkylthio)pyrazolo[1,5-d][1,2,4]triazolo[3,4-f][1,2,4]triazines. The first stage was aimed at conducting the interaction of diethyloxalate with acetone with the participation of sodium methylate in a methanol medium. Ethyl-2,4-dioxopentanoate was used in the conversion process to 3-methylpyrazole-5-carbohydrazide with the participation of hydrazine hydrate. Further modification of the molecule consisted of the gradual formation of the structure of 4-amino-5-(3-methylpyrazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol. The next step involved the synthesis of 3-ethylthio-5-(3-methylpyrazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-triazole-4-amine. Further conversion included the production of potassium 3-ethylthio-9-methylpyrazolo[1,5-d][1,2,4]triazolo[3,4-f][1,2,4]triazine-6-thiolate and its S-alkyl derivatives along the triazine fragment. Cyclooxygenase-2, lanosterol-14α-demethylase and receptor tyrosine kinase were selected as model enzymes for docking, the crystal structure of which was loaded from the Protein Data Bank.
Results. The synthesis of 3-(ethylthio)-9-methyl-6-(alkylthio)-pyrazolo[1,5-d][1,2,4]triazolo[3,4-f][1,2,4]triazines were carried out and the optimal conditions for the production of these substances were determined. The structure of the chemical transformation products was proved and the results of the study of the main physical properties were recorded. The results of virtual studies provided an opportunity to substantiate the prospects of the selected chemical transformation vector, which ultimately made it possible to determine the biological potential of the obtained compounds.
Conclusions. Based on the results of the study, information was obtained that gives a certain idea of the possible level of influence of synthesized compounds on the activity of lanosterol-14α-demethylase, which makes it advisable to further search for substances with fungistatic and fungicidal effects.
State of affairs and future challenges in laboratory medicine in Spain: an analysis of the Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQCML)
Authors: Caballé Imma , Buño Antonio , Bernabeu Francisco A. , Canalias Francesca , Moreno Antonio , Ibarz Mercè , Puzo José , González Concepción , González Álvaro
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Laboratory Medicine is a crucial discipline that contributes to the diagnosis, management and monitoring of patients. This branch of medicine faces two major challenges: New technologies and increased demand. There is limited information available of the state of affairs in Laboratory Medicine in Spain. This study provides a picture of clinical laboratories and clinical laboratory professionals.

Methods

The Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine distributed a questionnaire among the 250 most representative centers (the ones with the largest volume of determinations and training programs), of which 174 (69.6%) returned the questionnaire providing data for 2019.

Results

Laboratories were classified according to the number of determinations. In total, 37% identified themselves as small (<1 million determinations per year); 40% considered themselves medium-sized (1–5 million determinations per year) and 23% considered they were large laboratories (>5 million determinations). The level of specialization of laboratory physicians and laboratory performance were higher in large laboratories. Most requests (87%) and determinations (93%) corresponded to biochemistry and hematology. As many as 63% of physicians had an indefinite contract, and 23% were older than 60 years.

Conclusions

Laboratory medicine is a consolidated discipline that is gaining relevance in Spain. It adds value to the diagnosis, prognosis and follow-up of diseases, and to treatment response monitoring. The results of this study will help us address challenges such as the need for specialized training for laboratory professionals; the emergence of technological innovations; exploitation of Big Data; optimization of quality management systems and patient safety.
Divine Agency and Politics in Plato’s Myth of Atlantis
Authors: Harvey George
Published: March 2023

This paper approaches the Critias straightforwardly as a work of political philosophy but gives greater attention to Athens’ opponent, Atlantis, whose founding, political organization, and eventual decline each offer important lessons about the aims of legislation and political life. I begin by comparing the foundation of the two cities as presented in Critias’ myth, with a special focus on the role of divine persuasion (I). I then describe the political organization of Athens and Atlantis, showing how they reflect the different ways in which their founding gods exercised divine persuasion (II). Next, I focus on the decline of Atlantis and the causes behind it (III). Finally (IV), I discuss the lessons that I think can be gathered from the foregoing sections and show how the themes that emerge from the comparison of the two cities anticipate their more extensive exploration in the Laws.
Imprecision remains to be improved in the measurement of serum cystatin C with heterogeneous systems
Authors: Zeng Jie , Zhang Li , Zhang Jiangtao , Zhou Weiyan , Zhang Tianjiao , Wang Jing , Zhao Haijian , Zhang Chuanbao
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Except for the large bias of some measurement systems for serum cystatin C (CysC) measurements, unacceptable imprecision has been observed for the heterogenous system. This study analyzed the external quality assessment (EQA) results in 2018–2021 to provide an insight into the imprecision of CysC assays.

Methods

Five EQA samples were sent to participating laboratories every year. Participants were divided into reagent/calibrator-based peer groups, for which the robust mean of each sample and robust coefficient of variation (CV) were calculated by Algorithm A from ISO 13528. Peers with more than 12 participants per year were selected for further analysis. The limit of CV was determined to be 4.85% based on clinical application requirements. The concentration-related effect on CVs was investigated using logarithmic curve fitting; the difference in medians and robust CVs between instrument-based subgroups was also evaluated.

Results

The total number of participating laboratories increased from 845 to 1,695 in four years and heterogeneous systems remained the mainstream (≥85%). Of 18 peers with ≥12 participants, those using homogeneous systems showed relatively steady and small CVs over four years, with the mean four-year CVs ranging from 3.21 to 3.68%. Some peers using heterogenous systems showed reduced CVs over four years, while 7/15 still had unacceptable CVs in 2021 (5.01–8.34%). Six peers showed larger CVs at the low or high concentrations, and some instrument-based subgroups presented greater imprecision than others.

Conclusions

More efforts should be made to improve the imprecision of heterogeneous systems for CysC measurement.
The actual state of the geodetic and cartographic resources and legislation in Poland
Authors: Doskocz Adam
Published: March 2023

Official data, including national geodetic and cartographic resources, are integrated in a spatial reference system. This study outlines national resources in Poland as an important part of the spatial information infrastructure in the European Community. They also provide reference data, including: geodetic control networks, base map, and topographic maps, for other resources of spatial data infrastructure. The study presents changes in the methods of sharing geo-data and technical standards for their collecting in the last few years, and additionally also presents some aspects of progressing geodetic and cartographic resources and legislation in Poland. It was noted that modern national geoportal or regional and district resources and progress, especially in the form of their standardization of presentation, enable to promote the use of spatial data in Poland and their popularization among the international community.
Detectability of Thermomechanical Surface Damages on Quenched and Tempered, Nitrided and Case-Hardened Steels by Barkhausen Noise Analysis
Authors: Jedamski R. , Gerhardt B. , Müller C. , Martinez J. , Epp J.
Published: March 2023

Magnetic Barkhausen noise analysis is an already industrially used method for the detection of grinding burn and offers several advantages over the established nital etching test with respect to objectivity, cost savings as well as occupational safety and environmental protection. Studies on the detectability of damages and influencing factors such as the condition of the surface zone prior to grinding have so far only existed in isolated cases and mostly limited to a few widely used case-hardened steels. For this reason, various steel grades used in particular in the aerospace sector were considered in this study. For one quenched and tempered, one nitrided and two case-hardened steels, the detectability of damages by means of Barkhausen noise and the influence of different heat treatment parameters were investigated. It was shown that the use of Barkhausen noise analysis is also possible on these steel grades and enables more reliable damage detection than nital etching.
Transcultural Conflicts and Pandemic: The Situation of the Chinese Community in Spain
Authors: Yao Yuan
Published: March 2023

The global COVID-19 pandemic has amplified and reinforced prejudice and racism against Asians, accompanied by increased conflicts such as discrimination towards ethnic Chinese. This study analyses the discrimination and conflicts experienced by ethnic Chinese living in Spain, empirically demonstrating the causality behind these discriminations. Further analysis of the relationship between gender, age, and length of residence in the host country as variables to establish the phenomena of discrimination among ethnic Chinese. The evidence indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to intensify prejudice and discrimination against individuals of East Asian origin (Loffman, 2020). In order to avoid the escalating conflicts of ethnic Chinese living abroad in the post-pandemic era, this study explores the reasons behind these discriminations and conflicts. This study developed the hypothesis that the racist discrimination experienced by the ethnic Chinese community living in Spain can be attributed to cultural differences. A descriptive-correlational research study that used a cross-sectional self-reported observational research design was carried out to examine this hypothesis. Based on the results, it affirms the hypothesis of this study that the racist conflicts experienced by ethnic Chinese living in Spain during the pandemic were related to cultural differences. This result provides certain reference value for a better understanding of the conflict between different cultures. Furthermore, as the COVID-19 pandemic has brought a new contextual environment to the world and ethnic Chinese are facing new situations when living abroad, this study may provide very timely insight and has strong social relevance.
Dynamic beam control based on electrically switchable nanogratings from conducting polymers
Authors: Lee Yohan , Karst Julian , Ubl Monika , Hentschel Mario , Giessen Harald
Published: March 2023

Surging interests in point-of-device miniaturization have led to the development of metasurface-based optical components. Here, we demonstrate an electrically-driven ultracompact beam controller in the infrared spectral range. The effect benefits from diffraction gratings consisting of the commercially available conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS, which exhibits metal-to-insulator transition characteristics upon electrical biasing. By combining several metagratings with different superlattice periods in electrically isolated areas, our device enables diffraction beams at 16 and 33.5° when applying voltages of only ±1 V. Furthermore, no diffraction is realized by switching off the plasmonic property of the gratings. Dynamic control of electromagnetic wave via the presented platforms could be transformative for sensing, imaging, and communication applications.
Physicochemical stability study of a biosimilar of Bevacizumab in vials and after dilution in 0.9% NaCl in polyolefin intravenous bags
Authors: Vieillard Victoire , Paul Muriel
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Bevacizumab was first marketed in 2005. Since then, its stability has been extensively studied. The arrival of numerous biosimilars on the market has called into question these stabilities and organisation within reconstitution units. To study the stability of the Bevacizumab biosimilar Alymsys® marketed by Zentiva laboratory in ready-to-use vials at a concentration of 25 mg/mL and following dilution to obtain final concentrations of 1.4 and 16.5 mg/mL and storage in polyolefin IV bags at 4 °C. In parallel, the impact of a storage temperature excursion at 25 °C for three days and storage of the vial before opening at room temperature (25 ± 2 °C) and after opening at 4 °C was studied.

Methods

The vials were supplied by Zentiva laboratory. The vials (three batches) were diluted to the final concentrations of 1.4 or 16.5 mg/mL in 100 mL IV bags of NaCl. The IV bags and vials were stored at 4 °C and at room temperature throughout the duration of the study. The physico-chemical stability was tested using the following methods: turbidimetry, UV spectrometry and fluorescence, dynamic light scattering, ion exchange and steric exclusion chromatography, pH, osmolality and density.

Results

Out of all the parameters studied, for the two concentrations and standard storage conditions (90 days at +4 °C) or after a three-day temperature excursion at +25 °C, no modification was detected for the three batches tested with respect to physical and chemical stability. Hence, no signs of physical instability were observed, with, in particular, the absence of formation of submicron or micron sized aggregates and particles. The steric exclusion chromatography profiles did not demonstrate any oligomer formation or molecular structure rupture. Ion exchange chromatography did not demonstrate any significant modification in the distribution of charge variants. Derivative UV and fluorescence spectral analysis did not demonstrate any modification. The thermal denaturation curves were identical, suggesting the absence of thermodynamic destabilisation. Identical results were observed for the vials stored for 60 days at 4 °C after opening. Finally, only ion exchange chromatography demonstrated a slight change after 45 days of storage at 25 °C for vials before opening.

Conclusions

After dilution in sterile conditions with 0.9% NaCl in polyolefin IV bags, at the usual concentrations of 1.4 and 16.5 mg/mL, the Bevacizumab biosimilar Alymsys® is stable for at least three months at 4 °C protected from light and after a three-day temperature excursion at +25 °C. The same conclusions can be reached for the 25 mg/mL vials stored for 60 days at +4 °C after opening. However, the stability of vials stored at 25 °C before opening is no longer guaranteed beyond 15 days.
Chronic Neuronal Inactivity Utilizes the mTOR-TFEB Pathway to Drive Transcription-Dependent Autophagy for Homeostatic Up-Scaling
Authors: Wang Yang , Lin Jingran , Li Jiarui , Yan Lu , Li Wenwen , He Xingzhi , Ma Huan
Published: March 2023

Activity-dependent changes in protein expression are critical for neuronal plasticity, a fundamental process for the processing and storage of information in the brain. Among the various forms of plasticity, homeostatic synaptic up-scaling is unique in that it is induced primarily by neuronal inactivity. However, precisely how the turnover of synaptic proteins occurs in this homeostatic process remains unclear. Here, we report that chronically inhibiting neuronal activity in primary cortical neurons prepared from embryonic day (E)18 Sprague Dawley rats (both sexes) induces autophagy, thereby regulating key synaptic proteins for up-scaling. Mechanistically, chronic neuronal inactivity causes dephosphorylation of ERK and mTOR, which induces transcription factor EB (TFEB)-mediated cytonuclear signaling and drives transcription-dependent autophagy to regulate αCaMKII and PSD95 during synaptic up-scaling. Together, these findings suggest that mTOR-dependent autophagy, which is often triggered by metabolic stressors such as starvation, is recruited and sustained during neuronal inactivity to maintain synaptic homeostasis, a process that ensures proper brain function and if impaired can cause neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTIn the mammalian brain, protein turnover is tightly controlled by neuronal activation to ensure key neuronal functions during long-lasting synaptic plasticity. However, a long-standing question is how this process occurs during synaptic up-scaling, a process that requires protein turnover but is induced by neuronal inactivation. Here, we report that mTOR-dependent signaling, which is often triggered by metabolic stressors such as starvation, is “hijacked” by chronic neuronal inactivation, which then serves as a nucleation point for transcription factor EB (TFEB) cytonuclear signaling that drives transcription-dependent autophagy for up-scaling. These results provide the first evidence of a physiological role of mTOR-dependent autophagy in enduing neuronal plasticity, thereby connecting major themes in cell biology and neuroscience via a servo loop that mediates autoregulation in the brain.
Determination of Free Chemical Potential for Finasteride Diffusion through SDS Micelle Suggested as Alternative Living Membrane System
Authors: Hatem Oraas Adnan , Obaid Ahmed Jassim
Published: March 2023

Abstract: As an alternative living cell membrane, sodium dodecyl sulfide (SDS) has been investigated at this study, spectroscopic assessment of Finasteride diffusion through the alternate model of the cell membrane in two distinct polar solutions, buffer phosphate solution pH 7.4 and Cyclohexane(Non-polar solution), has been studied. Finasteride in buffer phosphate solution showed a definite ?max at 253 nm, which was consistent with the default values. The results also reveal that the non-polar medium has a lower attenuation coefficient and a shorter maximum wavelength than the polar medium. The pH 7.4 finasteride solution demonstrated remarkable stability over time.

Diffusion rate of Finasteride was investigated using Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) as an alternative cell membrane model. The chemical potential was determined to be - 6294.76 J mol-1, showing the spontaneity of the compound's diffusion process.

The results indicated that Finasteride may diffuse (at a rate constant of 51.11 min-1) from the aqueous media and other identified components to the inner micelle; the equilibrium constant for diffusion was calculated to be 11.5.

Keywords: Finasteride, Diffusion, Chemical potential, SDS, Alternative model, Cell membrane.
Kutatások az énlaki (Inlăceni) castellumban
Authors: Visy Zsolt
Published: March 2023

Absztrakt

A 2021-es ásatás a két oldalkapu területén zajlott. Kiderült, hogy a kőkapuk tornyai később, Caracalla alatt épültek. A porta principalis sinistra területén a 3. század közepén épült kapunyílást elzáró fal maradványai is napvilágra kerültek. Az ásatás során a cohors VIII Raetorum építési feliratának töredéke került elő a 149. évből. Az új felirat nemcsak az építés pontos idejét jelzi, hanem azt is, hogy az építtető ez a cohors volt, és nem a korábban feltételezett cohors IIII Hispanorum.

The excavation in 2021 took place in the areas of the two side gates. It turned out that the stone gate towers were built later, under Caracalla. In the area of the porta principalis sinistra, the remains of the wall blocking the gate opening, which was built in the middle of the 3rd century, dame to light. During the excavation, a fragment of the building inscription of the cohors VIII Raetorum from the year 149 was found. The new inscription not only indicates the exact time of construction, but also indicates that the builder was this cohort and not the previously assumed cohors IIII Hispanorum.
Aplicativos móveis direcionados aos idosos para autogerenciamento do cuidado: revisão de escopo
Authors:   Universidade Estadual do Ceará (UECE), Ferreira Gomes Manoelise Linhares , da Silva Fernandes Cristina , Aguiar de Sousa Maria Gabrieli , Bráz da Silva Raimunda Leandra , da Costa Silva Illeanne de Jesus Manhiça , Moreira Barros Lívia
Published: March 2023

Introdução: o uso de aplicativos móveis pode facilitar o autogerenciamento em saúde e oportunizar a autonomia dos idosos no seu autocuidado. Objetivo: mapear a produção científica sobre aplicativos móveis para autogerenciamento do cuidado direcionados aos idosos. Materiais e Métodos: revisão de escopo realizada no período de setembro de 2020 a janeiro de 2021, a partir das bases de dados: MEDLINE, SciELO, Scopus, Web of Science e Science Direct, mediante a estratégia de busca: (“Self-management” OR “Self-care”) AND (Elderly OR “Old man”) AND (“Mobile Applications” OR Smartphone OR “Cell phone”), com a inclusão de artigos que tratassem do uso de aplicativos móveis por idosos para o autogerenciamento do cuidado, sem delimitação de tempo e idioma. Resultados: a amostra final compôs-se de 14 artigos, categorizados em três vertentes de gerenciamento, a saber: medicamentos, comorbidades e práticas saudáveis. Na maioria dos estudos, os aplicativos foram direcionados ao autogerenciamento dos medicamentos, seguidos dos cuidados de condições crônicas e por último a autoavaliação do risco de quedas e tratamentos não-farmacológicos da dor. Discussão: esta revisão contribui para a prática clínica e pesquisa em enfermagem, uma vez que seus resultados apontam o que há publicado sobre o desenvolvimento e uso de aplicativos móveis por idosos para o autogerenciamento do cuidado. Conclusões: o uso de aplicativos móveis facilita o autocuidado da população idosa, principalmente, na gestão de medicamentos para condições crônicas.
Exploring financial risk management practices in selected Tshwane schools
Authors: Tsharane Jane , Bussin Mark
Published: March 2023

With this study we explored financial risk management practices in public schools in selected quintile (1, 2 & 3) township schools in the Tshwane South district in Gauteng. The schools involved were previously disadvantaged schools and learners were from the same area as the schools. We adopted a qualitative research approach and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data collected via one-on-one interviews. Stratified random sampling was used to select 12 principals who formed the sample of the study. The challenges experienced by principals identified from the themes concerned a lack of clarity of principals’ roles regarding finances; balancing roles as accounting officers and ex-officio members; effective use of systems provided to use for school administration, including financial record keeping; accountability of reporting; and poor monitoring and support by the Department of Education. Schools across the country face challenges regarding financial management due to a lack of knowledge of financial risk management practices in schools. Within the South African public schools system the overall responsibility and accountability for school financial management and asset control lies with the school governing body.