bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Separation Technology of Components of Waste Pharmaceutical Blisters
Authors: Miękoś Ewa , Zieliński Marek , Sroczyński Dariusz , Fenyk Anna 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
In this paper, the separation technology of components of waste pharmaceutical blisters and its adaptation to the industrial scale are described. It involved, among others, taking advantage of the phenomenon of difference in the density of the individual phases that were contained in the separation tank, i.e., the separating mixture, PVC plastics, and aluminium. As a result, the directions of movement of the separated blister components were opposite. All components of the separating mixture feature a similar surface tension (γ > 20 mN/m) which facilitates the penetration of the liquid between the blister component layers. After separation, the full-value products, i.e. polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and aluminium are obtained. The resulting products can be further processed and the entire technological process is a waste-free. PVC can be melted and processed into other products e.g. plastic components for the construction industry. Pure aluminium is a metal sought after and widely used in industry due to its low specific weight. An additional element supplementing the technology is the separation tank of our design in which the separation process of the blister components takes place. The advantage of the separation tank is that the separation process can be repeated many times with the same separating mixture until it is exhausted. Both separated blister components are directed to filtering followed by air drying without a mixing PVC plastic with aluminium.
Determination of Cd, Pb and Zn in Polymers by Laser Ablation Microwave Induced Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry
Authors: Ślachciński Mariusz , Janeda Michał , Matusiewicz Henryk 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
The potential of laser ablation microwave induced plasma optical emission spectrometry (LA-MIP OES) for the analysis of plastic materials has been investigated. Inorganic species, e.g., metals may be added to them as additives, anti-oxidising agents, stabilisers, plasticisers, colorants and catalytic residues, contaminants and may be present in a wide range of concentrations. The study revealed elevated content of trace elements (Cd, Pb and Zn) which are components of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and polyethylene (PE). Laser ablation using wavelengths of 266 nm as a sampling method for MIP OES was used. The result achieved using elaborated system were compared with those obtained after polymer samples decomposition in high pressure-temperature focused microwave heating digestion system and standard sample pneumatic nebulisation (PN) to MIP OES spectrometer. The calibration strategy using cellulose pellets as support for qualitative analysis for element determination in polymers by LA-MIP OES was proposed. This analytical performance of the LA-MIP OES system was characterised by a determination of the limits of detection (LODs) and precision (RSDs) for elements tested. The experimental concentration detection limits for simultaneous determination, calculated as the concentration giving a signal equal to three times of the standard deviation of the blank (LOD, 3σblank criterion, peak height) were 2 µg g–
1, 3 µg g–
1 and 5 µg g–
1 for Cd, Pb and Zn, respectively. The method offers relatively good precision (RSD ranged from 3 % to 5 %) for micro sampling analysis.
A Natural Feed Additive Phytobiotic, Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.), and the Health Status of Poultry
Authors: Abd El-Ghany Wafaa A. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
The addition of antibiotic growth promotors in poultry diets results in a development of resistant bacterial strains and accumulation of drug residues in the meat and eggs. The new trend in poultry industry is the dietary addition of natural feed additives including phytobiotics. Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a natural cheap feed source that has been extensively used in the livestock production. In poultry production system, pomegranate by-products such as peel powder or extract, seed oil, or juice showed high nutritional values, several health benefits, and good economic profits. Pomegranate displays a growth promoting effect and an enhancement of carcass traits of broilers, along with an improvement of the egg production traits parameters. Moreover, dietary pomegranate by-products showed a potential antioxidant and antimicrobial effects on the treated birds. Modulation of both humeral and cell mediated immune response, hypo-lipidemia, as well as enhancement of liver functions have been proved following dietary treatment with different pomegranate by-products. Therefore, this review article was designed to present the different effects of dietary pomegranate by-products on the production indices of broilers and layers, the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immune status, as well as the blood parameters.
Circulating Variants of SARS-CoV-2 Among Macedonian COVID - 19 Patients in the First Year of Pandemic
Authors: Kiprijanovska Sanja , Bozhinovski Gjorgji , Noveski Predrag , Kostovska Ivana Maleva , Stefanovska Emilija Shukarova , Vujovikј Marija , Dichevska Hristina , Jakovchevska Simona , Jovanovska Natalija , Gjorgoski Icko , Karanfilska Dijana Plaseska , Dimovski Aleksandar 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Genomic epidemiology has proven to be a useful tool for investigating pandemic outbreaks and tracking pathogen spread and evolution. This study describes the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 strains in N. Macedonia during a period of one year, encompassing three waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. A certain percentage (2-3%) of positive cases were continuously selected and analyzed by whole genome sequencing (WGS) technology. Using this approach, a total of 337 SARS-CoV-2 genomes were sequenced and 26 different lineages belonging to 7 clades were detected. During the first wave of the pandemic, the most dominant lineage was B.1.1, followed by B.1.1.70, which became the most dominant in the second wave. The B.1.1.7 lineage completely overpassed all other variants in the third wave. Our study strengthens the notion that the progression of COVID-19 pandemic is associated with emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants with increased virulence. The measure of the impact of this viral dynamic on the spread of the pandemic should be evaluated in association with other factors that might influence the transmission.
Emotional Dysregulation is the Core Problem in Psychopathological Manifestations
Authors: Pop-Jordanova Nada 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
The established opinion is that emotions are the gift given to us by nature in order to help us connect with other people. They are constantly generated, usually by stimuli in our intrapersonal as well as in external world. Problems raised in our relationships initiate emotions to help us to fix those problems. Almost all forms of human psychopathology are associated with dysregulated emotions. The failure to apply appropriate cognitive, attentive, and behavioural regulatory strategies is the core for emotion dysregulation.
The brain regulates emotions through a biological mechanism. Emotions rise in intensity, peak, and then go flat once the emotion adaptive action tendency has been expressed. The aim of the therapist is to help clients express, face, and regulate their emotions, and to channel these emotions into healthy actions. The idea of this article is to present contributions from both affective neuroscience and psychotherapy in order to explain the ways how our emotions become dysregulated in life and how they can become regulated through psychotherapy.
Assessment of Prevalence and Risk Factors for Diabetic Retinopathy in Patients with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Examined at a Tertiary Care
Authors: Krstevska Brankica , Mishevska Sasha Jovanovska , Nakova Valentina Velkoska , Bitoska Iskra , Guceva Nevenka Laban , Ahmeti Irfan , Markovic Snezana , Todorova Biljana , Mladenovska Ivana 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus and the leading cause of visual impairment and blindness. The aim of the study was to estimate and compare the prevalence of DR and to determine an association between DR and systemic risk factors in hospitalized type 1 (DMT1) and type 2 (DMT2) diabetic patients.

Material and methods: We analyzed 260 patients with diabetes, 43 with DMT1 and 217 with DMT2. The following data were collected: age, gender, type and duration of diabetes, glycemic control, blood pressure, estimated glomerular filtration rate, ophthalmologic examinations and routine biochemical parameters.

Results: Out of the total number of 260 patients, 77 (29.6%) had non-proliferative DR (NPDR), 21 (8.1%) had proliferative DR (PDR), 29 (11.1%) had diabetic macular edema (DME), and 69 (23.5%) had diabetic cataracts. Forty-three (16.5%) patients were previously diagnosed with DMT1 and 217 (83.5%) with DMT2. The duration of diabetes was not significantly longer in DMT1 (12.8±11.2 years) in comparison to DMT2 (11.07±8.1 years). The prevalence of NPDR and PDR did not differ statistically in either groups. DME was more prevalent in DMT2 than in DMT1 (P<0.05). Diabetic cataract was found in 26.7% vs. 6.7% of patients with DMT2 and DMT1, respectively (p<0.01). The duration of diabetes significantly correlated with NPDR and PDR in DMT1 (r=o.31, p<0.05; r=0.55, p<0.001, respectively). In DMT2, significant correlations were found between the duration of diabetes and cataract, NPDR, PDR and DME (r=0.31, p<0.001; r=0.43 p<0.01, r=0.16 p<0.05 and r=0.20 p<0.01, respectively). Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) significantly correlated with PDR (r=0.258, p<0.05), while HbA1c with DME (r= 0.15 p<0.05).

Conclusion: The duration of diabetes and hyperglycemia were associated with DR in both types of diabetes.
Biologic Therapy in Inflammatory Bowel Disease - Results from a Single Tertiary Care Center in North Macedonia
Authors: Deriban Gjorgi , Nikolova Dafina , Licoska Fani , Nikolovska Emilija Trpcevska , Andreevski Vladimir , Stardelova Kalina , Serafimoski Vladimir 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Medical therapies used for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) include conventional (e.g. 5-aminosalicylates, steroids, immunomodulators) and biologic (e.g. inhibitors of tumor necrosis factor – alpha, integrin inhibitors, interleukin inhibitors) medications. Biologics, due to their high cost, were unfortunately not covered by the public health insurance system in North Macedonia until 2019 and, therefore, not widely utilized for our IBD patients. In 2019, the University Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Skopje developed a biologic therapy supply, provided by the National Health Insurance Fund, making this therapy available for a larger number of patients. This report presents the initial results of our prospective, single tertiary-care center study on the effects of biologic therapy in patients with IBD in North Macedonia. The study is focused on the evaluation of clinical outcomes after anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (anti TNF-alpha) therapy in IBD patients with prior inadequate response to conventional medications.
Testicular Mixed Germ Cell Tumor Presenting with Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Case Report
Authors: Trpchevska Emilija Nikolovska , Todorovska Beti , Todorovska Magdalena Bogdanovska , Trajkovska Meri , Nikolova Dafina , Dzambaz Darko , Deriban Gjorgji , Licoska-Josifovikj Fana 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Testicular mixed germ cell tumors (TMGCTs) are aggressive neoplasms that often have metastases at the time of diagnosis, primarily in the lungs, bones, and brain. Gastrointestinal metastases are rare, occurring in less than 5% of cases, while duodenal involvement is extremely rare, with only few reported cases. Furthermore, gastrointestinal bleeding is an atypical initial presentation of metastatic TMGCTs. Herein, we present a very rare case of upper gastrointestinal bleeding caused by a duodenal metastasis of a TMGCT in a 24-year-old man. The patient was admitted to our hospital due to abdominal pain and melena with a hemoglobin level of 52 g/L. He had no history of testicular swelling, or any other symptoms or signs of a testicular tumor. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a duodenal tumor mass with irregular bleeding, and abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography showed a duodenal mass that infiltrate retroperitoneum. Emergency surgery was performed, and the histopathological findings of the resected specimen were consistent with TMGCT metastasis. Subsequently, a testicular tumor was confirmed and surgically removed; however, multiple metastatic deposits were observed in the lungs. Due to the patient’s poor general condition, chemotherapy was not performed. The patient died 3 months after the initial diagnosis. This case suggests that, although duodenal metastatic TMGCTs are rare, they should be considered in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal bleeding in young male patients.
Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy in the Republic of North Macedonia
Authors: Gavrilovska-Brzanov Aleksandra , Stavridis Sotir , Dohchev Sasho , Mijovska Maja Mojsova , Petrusheva-Panovska Aleksandra , Trifunovski Aleksandar , Janculev Josif , Trajkovski Dimitar , Stankov Viktor , Srceva Marija Jovanovski , Brzanov Nikola 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Hand-assisted laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy has become the technique of choice for living donor kidney donations. Since 2018, 30 procedures have been performed at our clinic using this technique. The goal of this comparative analysis was to determine how surgical technique, specifically, hand-assisted laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy with hand assistance may affect early graft function when compared to open classical nephrectomy.

Material and methods: Retrospective analyses were performed, comparing the two techniques of kidney donation. Kidney transplantation was performed with the open standard technique in both groups. The primary outcome was early graft function, and levels of urine output, and plasma creatinine were analyzed at three time points. A secondary outcome was the quality of the operative technique, which was determined by the time of warm ischemia, blood loss, and duration of surgery. Additionally, we noted all complications, length of hospital stay, and patient satisfaction.

Results: In terms of warm ischemia time, there was no statistically significant difference between donors in both groups. It is important to note that in 2 recipients from Group II we did not observe diuresis at the conclusion of the operation. The recipients’ diuresis was 515 ml ± 321SD in group I and 444 ml ± 271SD in group II. At 3, 12, and 36 hours postoperatively, there were statistically significant differences in the average serum creatinine values (p 0.05) in favor of group I. Similar results were observed in the second time measurement at 12 h and the third time measurement at 36 h for serum urea levels in recipients. The difference in serum urea values between the recipients in the groups at the first measurement (3h) following surgery was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: Hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy is recognized as a safe and effective treatment. Donors in this situation have a different profile from other surgical patients; hence, they do not undergo surgery due to their own medical condition but for an altruistic reason, and with hand-assisted living donor nephrectomy. Such patients receive all the advantages of minimally invasive surgery. The two main objectives of a donor nephrectomy are to give the recipient the best possible kidney and to ensure the donor’s complete safety.
Our Experience with Posterior Approach for Posterior Tibial Plateau Fractures
Authors: Gavrilovski Andreja , Dimovska Aleksandra Gavrilovska , Ilie Radmila Mila Mihajlova , Gjorikj Magdalena Petrushevska 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Posterior tibial plateau fractures are a rare type of fractures. Most surgeons are accustomed to operate in the supine position, however, surgery in the posterior knee region and operating in prone position can be challenging because of the presence of neurovascular structures including the tibial nerve, popliteal artery and vein, common peroneal nerve and, also challenging to achieve effective reduction and fixation, thus, it is less commonly performed.

Materials and methods: Between February and September 2022 four posterior tibial plateau fractures were diagnosed and operated in our clinic within a six months follow-up (2 female and 2 male with mean age of 48.5 years). All were diagnosed with X-rays and CT scans. All of the fractures were on the right leg. Posterior “S shape” approach in prone position was used to reduce the tibial condyle and fix it with a plate. In fracture patterns that include lateral plateau impressions, the posterior “S shape” approach may not be sufficient to perform open reduction and internal fixation of the lateral condyle, so an additional anterolateral approach was made and additional locking plate was placed. Radiographic evaluation included reduction quality and satisfactory alignment of the bone axis.

Results: All fractures healed within 6 months, without secondary displacement. Throughout the follow-up period, there were no incidences of post-traumatic osteoarthritis of the knee. No patient complained of knee instability.

Conclusion: The direct dorsal approach allowed for adequate open reduction and internal fixation, and early clinical results are promising. However, in fracture patterns that include lateral plateau impressions, the posterior “S shape” approach may not be sufficient to perform open reduction and internal fixation of the lateral condyle, so an additional anterolateral approach should be made and additional locking plate to be placed.
The Value of Injection Therapy with Botulinum Toxin in Pain Treatment of Primary Chronic Anal Fissures Compared to Anal Dilation, and Local Nifedipine in Combination with Lidocaine
Authors: Andreevski Vladimir , Volkanovska Ance , Deriban Gjorgji , Josifovic Fani Licoska , Krstevski Gregor , Nikolova Dafina , Dimitrova Magdalena Genadieva , Stardelova Kalina Grivceva , Serafimovski Vladimir 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Anal fissure is a longitudinal tear of the mucosa of the anal canal extending from the outer anal orifice in the direction of the dentate line of the inner anal opening. Fissures are divided into primary and secondary, and acute or chronic. Besides minimal rectal bleeding, itching and soiling, primary chronic anal fissures (PCAF) manifest with anal pain as theirs main determinant. It is described as the most troubling symptom.

Aim: To compare the effect of injection therapy with botulinum toxin A (ITBT) vs. anal dilation (AD), and local nifedipine with lidocaine (LNL) in pain treatment of PCAF.

Materials and Methods: This controlled retrospective prospective longitudinal study covered 94 patients, divided in 3 groups. The first was treated with ITBT, the second with AD and third using LNL (31, 33 and 30 patients respectively). Clostridium botulinum toxin A was used, dissolved with saline to concentration of 200 U/ml. The solution was applied to both sides of PCAF at dose of 40U. Modified technique of AD was done using 3 fingers of a single hand, progressively introduced into the anal canal, followed by gradual lateral distraction during 1 min. LNL therapy was conducted using nifedipine (0.3%) with lidocaine (1.5%) ointment, applied twice daily for 3 weeks. To measure pain, a visual analog scale (VAS) was used. The follow-up period was 12 weeks with checkup at week 4.

Results: The median age of participants was 46.6±13.9 years (50 males vs. 44 females). The type of therapy had a significantly different effect on pain at week 4 (p=0.0003). Severe pain was present in only 2 ITBT patients, 16 AD, and 6 LNL patients. Post hoc analyses showed different pain disappearance time by week 12 (p <0.0001). The mean time was shortest in ITBT group (6.1±1.5 weeks). Anal pain intensity significantly differed among the 3 groups (Fisher exact, p=0.002). Namely, 71% in ITBT group rated the pain as weakest (VAS score 1) compared to 18.2% in AD and 30% of patients in LNL group. The overall pain reduction significance was in favor of ITBT, due to the differences between the ITBT and AD groups (p=0.00024) and ITBT compared to LNL group (p=0.018).

Conclusion: ITBT is superior to AD and LNL in reducing pain in PCAF.
Glomerulopathies with Fibrillary Deposits
Authors: Dzekova-Vidimliski Pavlina , Karanfilovski Vlatko , Nikolov Igor G , Rambabova-Bushljetik Irena , Ristovska Vesna , Petrushevska Gordana , Selim Gjulsen 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
The glomerulopathies associated with the deposition of extracellular fibrils in the glomeruli are subdivided into Congo red positive (amyloidosis) and Congo red negative (non-amyloidotic glomerulopathies) based on Congo red staining. The non-amyloidotic glomerulopathies are divided into immunoglobulin-derived and non-immunoglobulin-derived glomerulopathies. The immunoglobulin-derived glomerulopathies: fibrillary glomerulopathy (FGn) and immunotactoid glomerulopathy (ITG) are rare glomerulopathies. The diagnosis of fibrillary-immunotactoid glomerulopathy depends on electron microscopy, which shows the presence of microfibrils in the glomeruli. The microfibrils in FGn are randomly arranged with diameters less than 30 nm. The microfibrils in ITG are larger than 30 nm with a visible lumen (microtubules), focally arranged in parallel bundles. Patients with fibrillary-immunotactoid glomerulopathy present with proteinuria (usually in the nephrotic range), microscopic hematuria, arterial hypertension, and chronic kidney disease that progresses to kidney failure over months to years. Currently, there are no guidelines for the treatment of fibrillary-immunotactoid glomerulopathy, although immunotactoid glomerulopathy could be associated with underlying hematologic disorders with the need for clone-directed therapy.
The Role of Endothelial Dysfunction in the Pathogenesis of Pregnancy-Related Pathological Conditions: A Review
Authors: Ristovska Elena Curakova , Genadieva-Dimitrova Magdalena , Todorovska Beti , Milivojevic Vladimir , Rankovic Ivan , Samardziski Igor , Bojadzioska Maja 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
In the recent decades, endothelial dysfunction (ED) has been recognized as a significant contributing factor in the pathogenesis of many pathological conditions. In interaction with atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertension, ED plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease, chronic renal disease, and microvascular complications in diabetes mellitus. Although ED plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of several pregnancy-related disorders such as preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, fetal growth restriction, and gestational diabetes mellitus, the exact pathogenetic mechanisms are still a matter of debate. The increased prevalence of these entities in patients with preexisting vascular diseases highlights the essential pathological role of the preexisting ED in these patients. The abnormal uteroplacental circulation and the release of soluble factors from the ischemic placenta into the maternal bloodstream are the main causes of the maternal ED underlying the characteristic preeclamptic phenotype. Besides the increased risk for maternal and fetal poor outcomes, the preexisting ED also increases the risk of development of future cardiovascular diseases in these patients. This study aimed to look deeper into the role of ED in the pathogenesis of several pregnancy-related hypertensive and liver diseases. Hopefully, it could contribute to improvement of the awareness, knowledge, and management of these conditions and also to the reduction of the adverse outcomes and additional long-term cardiovascular complications.