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Big data and computational technologies are increasingly important worldwide in asset and investment management. Many investment management firms are adopting these data science (DS) methods and technologies to improve performance across all investment processes. A good question is whether we can make better decisions in developing quantitative strategies. Therefore, the main objective of this research was to develop a multicriteria assessment framework and scoring decision support system to evaluate quantitative investment strategies that apply machine learning (ML) and DS techniques in their research and development. Subject matter experts will assess all framework perspectives from a systematic literature review to approve their reliability. The perspectives consist of economic and financial foundations, data perspective, features perspective, modeling perspective, and performance perspective. The research methodology applied was the hierarchical decision model (HDM) to provide a 360° view of the quantitative investment strategy and improve and generalize the concept to other asset classes and regions. This study accomplished a rigorous integration of an extensive literature review connecting DS, ML, and investment decision-making in developing quantitative investment strategies. As a result, the major contribution of this study is the comprehensive examination, which included identifying and quantifying perspectives and criteria. The results, while limited indicated significant gaps in strategies examined and therefore generated critical knowledge to improve ML/DS-driven investment strategies, which are valuable for financial companies and policymakers.

The article from Vegan Food & Living provides recipes for a Caesar salad, butternut squash soup, fried tofu sandwiches, seed falafel, and coronation chickpea naan wraps. The recipes include detailed instructions and nutritional information for each dish, catering to a vegan diet. The ingredients are plant-based and offer a variety of flavors and textures for a satisfying lunchtime meal. [Extracted from the article]

Antibody–oligonucleotide conjugates are a promising class of therapeutics for extrahepatic delivery of small interfering ribonucleic acids (siRNAs). These conjugates can be optimized for improved delivery and mRNA knockdown (KD) through understanding of structure–activity relationships. In this study, we systematically examined factors including antibody isotype, siRNA chemistry, linkers, conjugation chemistry, PEGylation, and drug-to-antibody ratios (DARs) for their impact on bioconjugation, pharmacokinetics (PK), siRNA delivery, and bioactivity. Conjugation site (cysteine, lysine, and Asn297 glycan) and DAR proved critical for optimal conjugate PK and siRNA delivery. SiRNA chemistry including 2′ sugar modifications and positioning of phosphorothioates were found to be critical for delivery and duration of action. By utilizing cleavable and noncleavable linkers, we demonstrated the impact of linkers on PK and mRNA KD. To achieve optimal properties of antibody–siRNA conjugates, a careful selection of siRNA chemistry, DAR, conjugation sites, linkers, and antibody isotype is necessary.

This paper presents the design of a novel continuous robust controller for a nonholonomic mobile manipulator in the task space. The main objective of the designed controller is to compensate for the disturbance caused by an unknown time-varying input delay, while the end-effector of the manipulator accurately tracks the reference position trajectory. Notably, the designed robust controller is model-independent; thus, it does not rely on the nominal values of dynamic parameters. Moreover, the control development considers the uncertainties in the parameters of the mobile manipulator dynamics via an unknown time-varying additive disturbance in the dynamics. To guarantee the uniformly ultimate boundedness of the tracking error, the paper utilizes a novel Lyapunov-based stability analysis incorporating Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals. The effectiveness of the designed controller for a mobile manipulator, composed of a differential drive mobile platform and a two-degree-of-freedom robot manipulator, has been confirmed via simulation results.

Our aim is to reveal the interaction of cultural and religious influences with professional equipment by determining the level of knowledge, sexual attitudes, and homophobia of medical students about LGBTI+ individuals. The study included 324 students from our faculty of medicine. The Hudson and Ricketts Homophobia scale, the Attitudes Towards Lesbians and Gay Men scale, and the Hendrick Sexual Attitudes scale were used with the sociodemograpic data form. Data were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests. The mean score of the students from the Hudson and Ricketts Homophobia scale was 58.50. The findings of our study support that medical students consider that the education they receive in this regard is inadequate. One of the goals of undergraduate medical education is the provision of health services to all segments of society; therefore, it is recommended to make improvements in the curriculum in this regard.

This study introduces a method for the quantitative analysis of cross-section scanning electron micrographs of graphene oxide membranes. This method involves the segmentation of micrographs using a neural network built on the UNet architecture that was trained on synthetic data. Subsequently, the OrientLayer algorithm is applied to calculate the orientational order parameters of lamellae forming a membrane. The lamellae ordering was compared with the ordering of the oxidized graphene planes determined by using the spin probe technique. High prospects for the joint application of scanning electron microscopy and electron paramagnetic resonance techniques to study the internal structure of graphene oxide membranes were discussed.

The development of a scalable asymmetric synthesis of KRAS G12C inhibitor building block 1is described. The all-carbon quaternary stereocenter was installed enantioselectively via Shi epoxidation, followed by a newly discovered regioselective LaCl3·2LiCl-catalyzed epoxide opening. Subsequent organocatalyzed oxidation provided the requisite ketone, which underwent the final assembly of the heterocyclic core, delivering 1with high chemical and enantiomeric purities in 40% overall yield in only five steps, enabling robust and rapid manufacturing of over 300 kg of 1.

The increasing popularity of blockchain technology has led to its adoption in various sectors, including higher education. However, the sustainability of blockchain in higher education is yet to be fully understood. Therefore, this research examines the determinants affecting blockchain sustainability by developing a theoretical model that integrates the protection motivation theory and expectation confirmation model. Based on 374 valid responses collected from university students, the proposed model is evaluated through a deep learning-based hybrid structural equation modeling (SEM) and artificial neural network approach. The partial least squares-SEM results confirmed most of the hypotheses in the proposed model. The sensitivity analysis outcomes discovered that users’ satisfaction is the most important factor affecting blockchain sustainability, with 100% normalized importance, followed by perceived usefulness (58.8%), perceived severity (12.1%), and response costs (9.2%). The findings of this research provide valuable insights for higher education institutions and other stakeholders looking to sustain the use of blockchain technology.

To ensure that their workforces remain competitive, firms need to learn how to quickly leverage new technologies. In general, companies have two ways to acquire technology. First, choosing any well-marketed technology that other firms use and successfully adopting it according to their company's characteristics, and second, implementing change on existing technology, which utilizes beneficial opportunities or moderates negative effects. This process, which is identified as adapting technology, requires firms to analyze their processes, their employees, and their R&D ability to search and modify an appropriate technology. Since many firms continue to face complex challenges in acquiring technology's performance, the results of this study attempt to understand the relationship between the adoption and adaptation processes as well as the benefits that firms receive in the technology selection phase. This study emphasizes that both technology adoption and adaptation processes are identified as the major sources of technology acquisition. However, our study results highlighted that technology adoption is the most important way to achieve the technology advantages.

Given the complex nature of Six Sigma project (SSP) prioritization and selection processes, multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) methods may help organizations identify the most effective projects. Considering potential limitations of subjective methods and advantages of MCDM methods, this article proposes a model that integrates analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and combinative distance-based assessment (CODAS) in SSP prioritization and selection process. In the proposed approach, AHP is employed to assign criteria weights, and CODAS is performed to determine priorities of SSPs. CODAS was advanced in term of its threshold function. Differences between Euclidean distances of two alternatives were compared, based on the standard deviation of Euclidean distances of all alternatives to overcome the subjectivity. This is the first study that combines AHP and CODAS methods for SSP selection, and CODAS is used with objective threshold value computation, and developed for the healthcare industry. In this article, ten SSPs were evaluated for four key criteria groups as financial, operational, patient centric, and organizational main criteria groups. In total, 18 subcriteria were considered under these four main criteria groups. This article provides a support for executives who make implementation plans for the potential SSPs.

Industries use reclaimed water for their makeup water requirements of cooling towers to decrease their water footprints. Makeup water quality depends on the type of cooling tower design; however, total suspended solids (TSS), biological oxygen demand (BOD5), fecal coliform, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), some ions (sulphate, chloride, ammonium) and heavy metals (aluminum, silica, manganese, iron) are important parameters to prevent contamination, scaling, and corrosion. In the first part of this study, cooling water production from municipal wastewater was experimentally investigated, in the second part of this study cost of treatment alternatives was estimated. Six different treatment configurations (C1: microfiltration (MF)+nanofiltration (NF); C2: ultrafiltration (UF)+NF; C3: high-rate activated sludge (HRAS)+NF; C4: MF+reverse osmosis (RO); S5: UF+RO; C6: HRAS+RO) were analyzed. Thanks to the high treatment performances of NF and RO membranes, reclaimed water in each scenario met the suggested cooling water quality. The effluent of the HRAS process showed the worst effluent quality in terms of turbidity (42.1 ± 2.6 NTU of turbidity) compared to MF and UF direct filtration (turbidity of DMF permeates were below 5 NTU). However, since HRAS process is less costly than direct membrane filtration (DMF) via MF or UF membranes, the lowest treatment cost was achieved with the C3 (HRAS+NF) treatment configuration (0.52 €/m3reclaimed water). This study demonstrates that the HRAS+NF configuration can produce water suitable for cooling tower makeup, highlighting its potential as a sustainable solution to reduce water footprints and promote water circularity in industries.

OBJECTIVE--We tested the hypotheses that human brain glycogen is mobilized during hypoglycemia and its content increases above normal levels ('supercompensates') after hypoglycemia. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS--We utilized in vivo [sup.13]C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in conjunction with intravenous infusions of [[sup.13]C]glucose in healthy volunteers to measure brain glycogen metabolism during and after euglycemic and hypoglycemic clamps. RESULTS--After an overnight intravenous infusion of 99% enriched [1-[sup.13]C]glucose to prelabel glycogen, the rate of label wash-out from [1-[sup.13]C]glycogen was higher (0.12 ± 0.05 vs. 0.03 ± 0.06 µmol x [g.sup.-1] x [h.sup.-1], means ± SD, P < 0.02, n = 5) during a 2-h hyperinsulinemic-hypoglycemic clamp (glucose concentration 57.2 ± 9.7 mg/dl) than during a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp (95.3 ± 3.3 mg/dl), indicating mobilization of glucose units from glycogen during moderate hypoglycemia. Five additional healthy volunteers received intravenous 25-50% enriched [1-[sup.13]C]glucose over 22-54 h after undergoing hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic (glucose concentration 92.4 ± 2.3 mg/dl) and hyperinsulinemic-hypoglycemic (52.9 ± 4.8 mg/dl) clamps separated by at least 1 month. Levels of newly synthesized glycogen measured from 4 to 80 h were higher after hypoglycemia than after euglycemia (P ≤ 0.01 for each subject), indicating increased brain glycogen synthesis after moderate hypoglycemia. CONCLUSIONS--These data indicate that brain glycogen supports energy metabolism when glucose supply from the blood is inadequate and that its levels rebound to levels higher than normal after a single episode of moderate hypoglycemia in humans., Glucose is the primary fuel for the adult brain. During euglycemia and hyperglycemia, the brain receives more glucose from the blood than it utilizes and normal metabolism can be maintained. [...]

•To examine the effects of the mixing methods on particulate matter in compounded medication.•The differences in the blending methods of the insoluble powder injection include the dilution dose, oscillation time, and oscillation frequency.•The insoluble particles are affected by the mixing methods of pharmacists.

•Buses used in intercity transportation takes an important place for each stakeholder.•The criteria that are given importance in bus selection are discussed in detail.•Bus brands are evaluated by considering both bus drivers' and bus owners' preferences.•PIPRECIA method is used to determine the weights of the criteria.•COPRAS-G is applied for the evaluation of the bus alternatives.

IMPORTANCE: A clear dosing regimen for methotrexate in psoriasis is lacking, and this might lead to a suboptimal treatment. Because methotrexate is affordable and globally available, a uniform dosing regimen could potentially optimize the treatment of patients with psoriasis worldwide. OBJECTIVE: To reach international consensus among psoriasis experts on a uniform dosing regimen for treatment with methotrexate in adult and pediatric patients with psoriasis and identify potential future research topics. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Between September 2020 and March 2021, a survey study with a modified eDelphi procedure that was developed and distributed by the Amsterdam University Medical Center and completed by 180 participants worldwide (55 [30.6%] resided in non-Western countries) was conducted in 3 rounds. The proposals on which no consensus was reached were discussed in a conference meeting (June 2021). Participants voted on 21 proposals with a 9-point scale (1-3 disagree, 4-6 neither agree nor disagree, 7-9 agree) and were recruited through the Skin Inflammation and Psoriasis International Network and European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology in June 2020. Apart from being a dermatologist/dermatology resident, there were no specific criteria for participation in the survey. The participants worked mainly at a university hospital (97 [53.9%]) and were experienced in treating patients with psoriasis with methotrexate (163 [91.6%] had more than 10 years of experience). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: In a survey with eDelphi procedure, we tried to reach consensus on 21 proposals. Consensus was defined as less than 15% voting disagree (1-3). For the consensus meeting, consensus was defined as less than 30% voting disagree. RESULTS: Of 251 participants, 180 (71.7%) completed all 3 survey rounds, and 58 participants (23.1%) joined the conference meeting. Consensus was achieved on 11 proposals in round 1, 3 proposals in round 2, and 2 proposals in round 3. In the consensus meeting, consensus was achieved on 4 proposals. More research is needed, especially for the proposals on folic acid and the dosing of methotrexate for treating subpopulations such as children and vulnerable patients. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: In this eDelphi consensus study, consensus was reached on 20 of 21 proposals involving methotrexate dosing in patients with psoriasis. This consensus may potentially be used to harmonize the treatment with methotrexate in patients with psoriasis.

In this work, we developed a novel strategy in which catalytic processes are suitable for the selective hydrogenation of benzaldehyde under visible light illumination. It was intended to compare the catalytic activities and to optimize the benzaldehyde hydrogenation reaction with Pd-based catalysts on different support groups (activated carbon, alumina, clinoptilolite). It was also determined that the use of immobilized Pd0on amine-functionalized clinoptilolite (CLI) could enhance the selectivity toward benzyl alcohol (BA) in the hydrogenation of benzaldehyde (BAld). These prepared catalysts were characterized by using different analysis techniques, including XRD, BET surface area analysis, FTIR, and TGA analysis for determining the total surface acidity and SEM analysis. The final product concentrations were determined in gas chromatography (GC). Catalytic reactions were carried out under both temperature effects and halogen lamp irradiation as a novel method for comparison with the conventional hydrogenation technique. The best catalytic performance was obtained at 2Pd/APTMSCLI with total conversion and 100% BA selectivity. This work provides a novel approach for the development of a new bifunctional hydrogenation catalyst and may have a significant impact on the advancement of technology to obtain BA with high efficiencies.

The main objective is to define the mortality of patients with cancer admitted to our hospital, their clinical and demographic characteristics, investigate the risk of COVID-19 for patients with cancer, and determine factors that affect the mortality rates of patients with cancer dying of COVID-19. A total of 2401 patients were admitted to our hospital with the diagnosis of COVID-19 from March 11th, 2020, to May 31st, 2020. Ninety-two out of a total of 112 cancer patients were included in this study based on the planned inclusion/exclusion criteria. The clinical, demographic, and laboratory features and treatments provided were studied, and their effect on mortality rates was analyzed. In our study the median age of the patients was 67 years, and 55.4% were male. More than half (56.5%) of our patients had metastasis. The mortality rate was 6.2% in the overall population with COVID-19, whereas it was 23.9% in patients with cancer. The mortality rate in patients with metastasis was statistically significantly higher compared with those without metastasis (34.0% vs. 10.3% P = 0.008). The mortality rate in patients still smoking was statistically significantly higher than in non-smokers (37.5% vs. 12.5% P = 0.033). The mortality rates of patients with high average C-reactive protein (CRP), ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and D-dimer levels were statistically significantly higher than in those without, and the mortality rates of patients with lower average albumin and hemoglobin levels were statistically significantly higher than those without (P < 0.001, P = 0.006, P = 0.041, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P = 0.028, respectively). Having metastases concurrent with COVID-19 was a statistically significant factor predictive of prognosis. Also, high CRP, ferritin, LDH, and D-dimer, and low albumin and hemoglobin were related to increased mortality rates. The predictive and prognostic role of possible factors related to prognosis is still unknown and further large, multicenter prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.

Introduction: Living donor transplantation of kidneys accounts for one quarter of transplants performed in the United States. Careful screening of psychiatric history is a standard part of the donor evaluation. Little is known about the impact of psychiatric history on post-donation course and pain experience.Research Question: This study investigated whether psychiatric history was associated with pain and related outcomes among living kidney donors.Design: A retrospective medical record review was conducted of 75 living kidney donors who underwent laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. All donor candidates completed a psychological evaluation and were approved for donation by a multidisciplinary committee. History of psychiatric diagnosis and psychiatric medication use were obtained from donors’ psychological evaluation reports. Data on pain and related outcomes (ie, history of prescribed pain medication, post-donation pain, opioid use, length of hospital stay, post-donation emergency department visits), as well as demographic and donation-related characteristics were also abstracted from medical records.Results: Psychiatric history, including current or historical psychiatric diagnosis or psychiatric medication use, in living kidney donors who were evaluated and approved for donation by a transplant psychologist was not associated with greater perceived pain, greater use of opioid pain medication in the post-operative period, longer hospital stays, or more frequent post-donation emergency department visits.Discussion: The findings demonstrate that carefully screened donors with a psychiatric history have comparable pain-related outcomes as donors without a psychiatric history. This study highlights the importance of the pre-donation psychological evaluation in promoting positive postdonation outcomes through careful selection of donor candidates.

Pt nanoparticles anchoring on MnV2O6led to electrocatalyst with high performance for the direct borohydride fuel cell anode at low Pt loading along with remarkable stability shown by both experiments and DFT calculations.

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of gabapentin treatment in dry eye disease (DED) and neuropathic ocular pain. Our study was performed with 72 patients. The painDETECT questionnaire was used for neuropathic pain screening. Patients who were thought to have severe DED according to ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire, Schirmer’s test type 1 and tear break up time test results were treated with artificial tear and cyclosporine drops. Gabapentin treatment was also initiated in addition to artificial tear and cyclosporine drops treatments to the patients with neuropathic component and DED findings. We divided the patients into two groups: group 1 (n: 36), patients treated with artificial tear and cyclosporine drops and group 2 (n: 36), patients treated with artificial tear, cyclosporine drops and gabapentin. In the first evaluation, no significant differences were found between groups in terms of OSDI score, Schirmer’s test result and TBUT. After the 6 weeks of treatment, in both groups OSDI score, Schirmer’s test result and TBUT statistically significantly improved. OSDI score, Schirmer’s test result and TBUT significantly improved after the 6 weeks of gabapentin treatment than artificial tear and cyclosporine treatment group (p< 0.001). Dry eye patients should be screened for neuropathic ocular pain symptoms and individualized treatment has to be applied. Our study showed that the use of gabapentin is effective in severe dry eye patients with neuropathic ocular pain.

ABSTRACTObjectives:Philadelphia-negative chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), essential thrombocythemia (ET), polycythemia vera (PV) and myelofibrosis (MF), are characterized by clonal myeloproliferation and a strong inflammatory atmosphere. YKL-40, expressed in granulocytes, macrophages, megakaryocytes and malignant cells, is an acute phase reactant with an important role in tissue remodeling and atherosclerotic inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate serum YKL-40 levels in MPNs and to assess its clinical correlations.Methods:ELISA test was used to measure serum YKL-40 levels in 111 MPN patients and in 32 healthy controls.Results:Serum YKL-40 levels were higher in ET, post-ET MF, PV, post-PV MF and primary MF patients, when compared to healthy controls (p < 0.001). Higher serum YKL-40 levels were associated with parameters indicative of the increased inflammatory state (higher C-reactive protein, poor performance status, presence of constitutional symptoms and cardiovascular risk factors). Additionally, higher serum YKL-40 levels in MF patients were associated with blast phase disease, lower hemoglobin and higher Dynamic International Prognostic Scoring System score. In the multivariate Cox regression models, higher serum YKL-40 levels in ET and PV patients were independently associated with an increased risk of thrombosis (HR 4.64, p = 0.031) and impaired survival in MF patients (HR 4.31, p = 0.038).Conclusion:These results indicate that higher circulating YKL-40 levels in MPNs might have a pathophysiological role in disease progression and thrombosis development. Assessing circulating YKL-40 could help in identification of ET and PV patients at a high risk of future cardiovascular events and has a good potential for improving prognostication of MF patients.

Antrochoanal polyps (ACPs) are benign lesions of the paranasal sinuses. Similarities between ACPs and nasal polyps have been previously investigated. However, oxidative stress has been implicated but not investigated in terms of the etiology of ACPs. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate oxidative stress in the etiology of ACPs. The study population comprised 93 patients divided into 3 groups. Group 1 consisted of 30 patients with ACPs. Group 2 consisted of 33 patients with nasal septal deviation. Group 3 comprised 30 healthy individuals. Venous blood was taken from all participants, and total thiol, native thiol, disulfide, and ischemic modified albumin (IMA) levels were evaluated. When the values of native thiol (P= .097), disulfide (P= .221), total thiol (P= .140), and IMA (P= .091) were compared, no significant differences were found among the 3 groups. While many studies have been conducted related to nasal pathologies and the role of oxidative stress in their etiologies, our study concluded that oxidative stress plays no role in ACP etiology.

Unlike the wide-ranging dynamic control of electrical conductivity, there does not exist an analogous ability to tune thermal conductivity by means of electric potential. The traditional picture assumes that atoms inserted into a material’s lattice act purely as a source of scattering for thermal carriers, which can only reduce thermal conductivity. In contrast, here we show that the electrochemical control of oxygen and proton concentration in an oxide provides a new ability to bi-directionally control thermal conductivity. On electrochemically oxygenating the brownmillerite SrCoO2.5to the perovskite SrCoO3–δ, the thermal conductivity increases by a factor of 2.5, whereas protonating it to form hydrogenated SrCoO2.5effectively reduces the thermal conductivity by a factor of four. This bi-directional tuning of thermal conductivity across a nearly 10 ± 4-fold range at room temperature is achieved by using ionic liquid gating to trigger the ‘tri-state’ phase transitions in a single device. We elucidated the effects of these anionic and cationic species, and the resultant changes in lattice constants and lattice symmetry on thermal conductivity by combining chemical and structural information from X-ray absorption spectroscopy with thermoreflectance thermal conductivity measurements and ab initio calculations. This ability to control multiple ion types, multiple phase transitions and electronic conductivity that spans metallic through to insulating behaviour in oxides by electrical means provides a new framework for tuning thermal transport over a wide range.

Clinical samples obtained from 57 glioma patients were analyzed by TOF-SIMS. The analysis allowed to separately cluster normal brain and cancer samples and demonstrated differences between primary and recurrent tumors as well as differences between morphologically distinct regions of the same tumor. Simultaneous detection of proteins and metabolites by TOF-SIMS allowed to visualize Caveolin 1 positive cholesterol rich population of cancer cells that might represent glioma stem cells.

Health literacy is important as it shows the degree to which a person understands and interprets medical information and makes the appropriate health decision. The workers of steel factories are often faced with health information and issues in their work place related to personal protection, occupational hazards and occupational injuries. Therefore, it is important to demonstrate the health literacy of the workers to ensure health literacy responsive work places. This paper aims to show the health literacy level of the steel factory male workers in Turkey.

In insulin-treated diabetes, the brain is exposed to extremes in glycemia that may have important effects on cerebral function. Consequently, understanding how the brain handles glucose delivered via the circulation [...]

All-solid-state batteries promise significant safety and energy density advantages over liquid-electrolyte batteries. The interface between the cathode and the solid electrolyte is an important contributor to charge transfer resistance. Strong bonding of solid oxide electrolytes and cathodes requires sintering at elevated temperatures. Knowledge of the temperature dependence of the composition and charge transfer properties of this interface is important for determining the ideal sintering conditions. To understand the interfacial decomposition processes and their onset temperatures, model systems of LiCoO2(LCO) thin films deposited on cubic Al-doped Li7La3Zr2O12(LLZO) pellets were studied as a function of temperature using interface-sensitive techniques. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, secondary ion mass spectroscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy data indicated significant cation interdiffusion and structural changes starting at temperatures as low as 300 °C. La2Zr2O7and Li2CO3were identified as decomposition products after annealing at 500 °C by synchrotron X-ray diffraction. X-ray absorption spectroscopy results indicate the presence of also LaCoO3in addition to La2Zr2O7and Li2CO3. On the basis of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and depth profiling of the Li distribution upon potentiostatic hold experiments on symmetric LCO|LLZO|LCO cells, the interfaces exhibited significantly increased impedance, up to 8 times that of the as-deposited samples after annealing at 500 °C. Our results indicate that lower-temperature processing conditions, shorter annealing time scales, and CO2-free environments are desirable for obtaining ceramic cathode|electrolyte interfaces that enable fast Li transfer and high capacity.

Hydatid disease is a parasitic infection that most commonly affects the liver and lungs, although the disease can arise in any part of the body. Cysts may mimic many benign and malignant conditions. The diagnosis cannot be confirmed preoperatively in all cases. A 44-yr-old menopausal woman was admitted to the department of gynecology with complaints of abdominal distention. A fixed abdominopelvic mass was identified. Radiology revealed a 20-cm mass with branched septations and solid components. CA-125 level was 55 kU/L, and Risk of Malignancy Index-2 score was 880. These findings suggested the presence of an ovarian neoplasm, and laparotomy was performed. Cystic masses measuring 22 cm and 4 cm, originating from the omentum majus and left ovary, respectively, were found during surgery. Frozen-section analysis revealed hydatid disease. Infracolic omentectomy and total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy were performed. Results of a serum Echinococcushemagglutination test performed immediately after surgery were negative. The patient was prescribed albendazole for 6 mo and discharged on the third postoperative day with no complaints. The incidence of hydatid disease in the female reproductive system is very rare; however, clinicians must be aware of this disease and take necessary precautions while operating because any spillage may lead to anaphylactic shock and increased risk of recurrence.

Because basic metal forming methods have reached the maximum of their manufacturing capabilities in deformation-velocity processing modes so called combined or integrated processing methods move to the forefront. The method of combined deformation processing based on drawing with bending and torsion deformation was developed. On the example of carbon steel wire it was shown that microstructure and mechanical properties can vary in a wide range depending on the process regimes. In order to estimate the probability of carbon steel wire fracture at the designed combined deformation processing the simulation complex DEFORM-3D was used. The results demonstrate that there are no areas with high concentrations of hydrostatic pressure and overestimated values Cockcroft-Latham criterion. For the developed combined deformation processing of wire by drawing with alternating bending and torsion, algorithm for the prediction of carbon steel wire microstructure and mechanical properties changing at combined deformation processing was carried out. The developed methodological approach to forecasting of formation of the structure and mechanical properties during combined deformation processing of carbon steel can be used to solve both direct and inverse problems.

•The cost of DMTs used in people with MS has steadily increased over the last few decades.•In order to reduce the cost, follow-on drugs have been put on the markets.•Phase III studies and in-laboratory quality assessments are the most reliable methods, but studies with real-life data are also valuable in the absence of adequate conditions.•This study evaluated the efficacy, safety and patient compliance of one of the follow-on fingolimods used in our country with real-life data.•Human health is always a priority. This study is a step to remove the doubts that exist in the literature and in real life about follow-on fingolimod risk management.

Background: Ingenol mebutate gel is a recent stirring weapon recommended for the treatment of multiple actinic keratoses (AKs) and field cancerization. This review brings a summary of recent data on the treatment of AKs with ingenol mebutate (IM) providing critical commentary with regard to drug's characteristics, drug's safety profile, treatment regimen, treatment outcome, patient compliance, AK recurrence, costeffectiveness and cost-utility, as well as guidelines for the management of the treatment of AK. Method: We undertook a structured search of bibliographic databases for peer-reviewed scientific articles, including review articles, original research articles as well as case report articles based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. Reports on ingenol mebutate from U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European Medical Agency were also included. Results: Sixty-six papers were included in this review. We report current data on ingenol mebutate chemical properties, pharmacology, efficacy, safety, and tolerability, potential new indications in dermatology, costeffectiveness, and cost-utility analysis. Conclusion: Treatment of AKs is necessary in order to prevent possible transition to invasive SCC. Although the mechanism of action of ingenol mebutate is not fully elucidated, dual mechanism of action is presumed. Ingenol mebutate is an effective and cost-saving topical agent for the treatment of AK, especially multiple AKs and field cancerization, with acceptable safety profile. It may also have perspective in dermatology regarding the treatment of superficial BCC, Bowen disease, actinic cheilitis, and anogenital warts that has to be evaluated in clinical trials. Patients' adherence to recommended treatment regimen and auspicious safety profile make this drug attractive.

Endotracheal tube cuff pressure must be maintained within 20–30mH2O to prevent complications. There is limited literature reporting the impact of nursing care on endotracheal cuff pressure. However, few studies have reported the effect of nursing care on endotracheal cuff pressure.

Malnutrition, inflammation, and anemia are common in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. In this study, correlations between Malnutrition Inflammation Score (MIS), laboratory and anthropometric parameters, and anemia indices in Croatian PD patients were analyzed. One hundred and one PD patients (males/females 54/47, age 58.71 ± 14.68 years, mean PD duration 21.82 ± 21.71 months) were included. Clinical, laboratory, and anthropometric parameters were measured. Statistically significant correlations between MIS and erythropoietin weekly dose per kg of body weight (ESA weekly dose), hemoglobin (Hb), and erythrocytes were found (r= 0.439, p< 0.001; r= -0.032, p< 0.001; r= -0.435, p< 0.001), respectively. Also, statistically significant correlations were found between MIS and mean corpuscular volume (r= 0.344, p< 0.001), iron (r= -0.229, p= 0.021), and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) (r= -0.362, p< 0.001), respectively. Furthermore, statistically significant correlations between ESA weekly dose and serum albumin level and body mass index (BMI) were found (r= -0.272, p= 0.006; r= -0.269, p= 0.006), respectively. When we divided PD patients into 2 groups according Hb level (Hb ≥ 11 0 [ N= 60, 59.41 %]) and Hb < 110 [N= 41, 40.59%]), statistically significant differences were found in MIS score (3.02 ± 2.54 vs 4.54 ± 3.54, p= 0.014), C-reactive protein (CRP) (3.52 ± 6.36 vs 7.85 ± 7.96, p= 0.005), and serum albumin level (44.22 ± 8.54 vs 39.94 ± 8.56, p= 0.003), respectively. Our findings suggest that anemia is correlated with malnutrition and inflammation in Croatian PD patients. Further studies are needed to assess whether modulating inflammatory or nutritional processes can improve anemia management in PD patients.

Background: Tofacitinib (formerly known as CP-690,550, CP690550, tasocitinib), a novel selective immunosuppressant, is a small molecule classified as Janus kinase inhibitor. The aim of this review article is to present updated data summary on the tofacitinib in the field of dermatology. Method: We undertook a structured search of bibliographic databases for peer-reviewed scientific articles, including review articles, original research articles as well as case report articles based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. Technical reports on tofacitinib from U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European Medical Agency were also included. Results: Forty-three papers were included in this review. We report current data on tofacitinib chemical properties, pharmacology, non-clinical toxicity, as well as efficacy and safety in potential new indications in dermatology: psoriasis, alopecia areata, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis and nail dystrophy associated with alopecia areata. Conclusion: JAK/STAT pathway has an important role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, alopecia areata, atopic dermatitis, and vitiligo. Despite encouraging efficacy, due to concerns about the overall safety profile of tofacitinib, additional studies will have to determine the adequate risk-to-benefit ratio.

Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy has emerged as a powerful analytical technique for fingerprint recognition of molecular samples with high sensitivity. The Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) effect has been extensively studied for the past few decades. However, only recently the commercialization of portable Raman spectrometers has taken SERS a step closer to real-world applications. Swift and convenient testing of analytes for point-of-care, environmental as well as food quality control and safety applications, is very lucrative. This can be realized with the use of low-cost, mass producible and environmentally friendly SERS active substrates in combination with portable Raman spectrometers. In this study, we demonstrate one approach to accomplish such a SERS-active substrate using nanostructured latex coated paperboard as a base substrate. The nanostructure is accomplished by applying a reverse gravure coater in combination with a short-wavelength infrared (IR) heater. The whole process is easily up-scalable. The SERS functionality is then obtained by physical vapor deposition of an ultra-thin layer of Au or Ag. The surface nanostructure was confirmed by atomic force microscopy, showing an additional nanoscale graininess after the deposition of Au or Ag. The successful metal deposition was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and deposition homogeneity was also analyzed. To confirm the SERS effect, two model compounds; crystal violet and rhodamine 6G were tested in the concentration range of 1–1000 μM. The results confirmed that the nanostructured, flexible, paper-based substrate can perform as a SERS-active substrate with negligible background noise.

Background: Semisolid SLNs are novel strategy for dermal drug administration instead of incorporating the SLN dispersions into conventional semisolids. Etofenamate loaded semisolid SLNs were successfully prepared and in vitro characterization of formulations were performed in our previous study. The present study is an attempt to evaluate the dermal behavior of the semisolid SLNs selected on the basis of previous research and investigate the properties in terms of the convenience for topical applications. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the skin penetration characteristics of semisolid SLN formulations. The occlusive and mechanical properties of semisolid SLNs were also evaluated because of their impression on the dermal behavior of the formulations. Method: The occlusive properties were investigated by in vitro occlusion test. Texture analysis was performed to define the hardness, compressibility, adhesiveness, cohesiveness and elasticity of the formulations. Rat skin was chosen to evaluate the ex vivo penetration of etofenamate loaded semisolid SLNs and commercial gel product. Coumarin-6 was used to visualize the dermal distribution of the semisolid SLN formulations. For monitorizing the penetration of coumarin-6 into the skin samples Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy was employed. Results: The occlusive and mechanical properties of C1 coded semisolid SLN formulation were found more favorable in comparison with P1. The cumulative etofenamate amount in skin samples was found to be 39.88 ± 1.50 μg/cm2 for C1 and 30.56 ± 2.10 μg/cm2 for P1 coded formulations. According to CLSM images, greater fluorescence intensities and deeper skin penetrations were obtained with both of the semisolid SLNs in comparison to plain Carbopol gel. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the semisolid SLNs are promising alternative dermal drug delivery systems to the conventional dosage forms.

Etofenamate (2-(2-hydroxyethoxy) ethyl 2-[[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]amino]benzoate) (ETO) is a yellowish viscous liquid which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that has been applied topically for joint and muscular pain and soft tissue disorders. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are colloidal drug delivery systems prepared by non-irritant and nontoxic lipids that attract great interest because of their unique features. Semisolid SLNs are novel approach for dermal application of SLNs. The aim of this study was to show the development, validation, and application of a simple, selective and reliable RP-LC method that was extensively validated for its specificity and stability-indicating properties from its forced hydrolytic, oxidative, photolytic and thermal degradation products. In addition, the proposed method presented to application of ETO from rat skin extract in according to the United States Pharmacopeia and International Council on Harmonization Guidelines. For this reason, XSelect HSS T3 XP (150 x 4.6 mm ID x 2.5μm) (Waters Corp. Milford, MA, USA) analytical column was chosen for the best resolution. Mobile phase consisted of 0.1 % H3PO4 in bidistilled water (pH adjusted to 7.0 with 5M NaOH) and acetonitrile in the ratio of (40:60, v/v) with the flow rate of 1 mL.min-1. The volume of the sample solutions was injected at 10μL and the detector was set up at 285 nm. The analysis was carried out at a temperature of 45°C. The developed stability indicating method presented low limit of detection, low limit of quantitation and good resolution between any of interferences from both commercial formulation and developed SLN formulation from rat skin, with symmetric, pure and perfect peak homogeneity. High percentage of recovery results shows that the proposed method is free from the interferences of the commonly used excipients and additives in the formulations of the commercial product or semisolid SLN formulations and also biological derivatives.

Eosinophilic myocarditis (EM) is a rare and potentially fatal disease if left untreated. Because the disease can have a delayed presentation and can appear even after 2 years, its underlying causes often remain unknown. We report the case of a 63-year-old man with an atypical clinical presentation of hypersensitive EM and significant coronary artery disease, which was confirmed through coronary angiography. The patient was treated with hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg once daily for 2 years) and budesonide/formoterol (160/4.5 µg once daily for 2 years). Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (1000/200 mg three times daily for 2 days) and azithromycin (500 mg once daily for 2 days) were used to treat pneumonia, while ibuprofen (600 mg three times daily for 2 days) was used to treat pericarditis. Extremely high levels of eosinophils led to clinical suspicion of non-acute coronary syndrome as the cause of chest pain and myocardial necrosis. In addition, early pulse doses of methylprednisolone (500 mg intravenously once daily) were administered. Complete clinical recovery and a fast decrease in eosinophils and troponin levels were observed after a few hours on the same day. No signs of recurrent myocarditis were noticed after 3 days of administering the same pulse doses of methylprednisolone, which was then replaced by oral methylprednisolone administered for the next 2 months (step-down regimen, starting from 64 mg/day). Despite causality assessment being difficult, prompt therapy must be given as soon as possible to prevent fatal outcomes. Delayed corticosteroid treatment, which is necessary regardless of the underlying cause, can result in heart failure and death.