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The Covid-19 pandemic brought about a shift in the way businesses operate, accelerating the adoption of digital communication tools. The study examines the effectiveness of communication tools in Slovak enterprises, comparing the dynamics before and during the pandemic. The study highlights the need for businesses to address communication-related issues.

Abstract Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health problem with major human and economic consequences. Despite advances in clinical guidelines, classification systems and evidence-based treatments, CKD remains underdiagnosed and undertreated and is predicted to be the fifth leading cause of death globally by 2040. This review aims to identify barriers and enablers to the effective detection, diagnosis, disclosure and management of CKD since the introduction of the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) classification in 2002, advocating for a renewed approach in response to updated Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) 2024 clinical guidelines. The last two decades of improvements in CKD care in the UK are underpinned by international adoption of the KDIGO classification system, mixed adoption of evidence-based treatments and research informed clinical guidelines and policy. Interpretation of evidence within clinical and academic communities has stimulated significant debate of how best to implement such evidence which has frequently fuelled and frustratingly forestalled progress in CKD care. Key enablers of effective CKD care include clinical classification systems (KDIGO), evidence-based treatments, electronic health record tools, financially incentivised care, medical education and policy changes. Barriers to effective CKD care are extensive; key barriers include clinician concerns regarding overdiagnosis, a lack of financially incentivised care in primary care, complex clinical guidelines, managing CKD in the context of multimorbidity, bureaucratic burden in primary care, underutilisation of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) medications, insufficient medical education in CKD, and most recently – a sustained disruption to routine CKD care during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Future CKD care in UK primary care must be informed by lessons of the last two decades. Making step change, over incremental improvements in CKD care at scale requires a renewed approach that addresses key barriers to detection, diagnosis, disclosure and management across traditional boundaries of healthcare, social care, and public health. Improved coding accuracy in primary care, increased use of SGLT2i medications, and risk-based care offer promising, cost-effective avenues to improve patient and population-level kidney health. Financial incentives generally improve achievement of care quality indicators – a review of financial and non-financial incentives in CKD care is urgently needed.

Örvar Arnarson,1,* Peter Moberger,2,3,* Filip Sköldberg,4,5 Kenneth Smedh,2,3 Helgi Birgisson,4,5 Ingvar Syk1 1Department of Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden; 2Centre for Clinical research Västerås, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; 3Department of Surgery Västmanlands Hospital Västerås, Västerås, Sweden; 4Gastrointestinal Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; 5Department of Surgery, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Ingvar Syk, Department of Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, SE-214 28, Email ingvar.syk@telia.comBackground: There is an urgent need to evaluate the quality of healthcare systems to improve and deliver high-quality care. Clinical registries have become important platforms for performance measurements, improvements, and clinical research. Hence, the quality of data in registries is crucial. This study aimed to assess the validity of data in the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Register (SCRCR).Methods: Seven hundred patients from 12 hospitals were randomly selected and proportionally distributed among three different hospital categories in Sweden using two-stage cluster sampling. Validity was assessed by re-abstracting data from the medical files of patients reported to the SCRCR in 2015. Data on histopathology, postoperative complications, and a 3-year follow-up were selected for validation. Re-abstracted data were defined as source data, and validity was defined as the proportion of cases in the SRCRC dataset that agreed with the source data. Validity was expressed as the percentage of exact agreement of non-missing data in both data sets, and Cohen´s kappa coefficient (κ) was used to measure the strength of the agreement.Results: The median agreement of the categorical histopathology variables was 93.4% (κ = 0.83). The general postoperative complication variable showed substantial agreement (84.3%, κ = 0.61). Likewise, the variable for overall cancer recurrence showed an almost perfect agreement (95.7%, κ = 0.86), whereas specific variables for local recurrence and distant recurrence displayed only moderate and fair agreement (85.9% and 89.1%, κ = 0.58 and 0.34, respectively).Conclusion: Validation of the SCRCR data showed high validity of pathology data and recurrence rates, whereas detailed data on recurrence were not as good. Data on postoperative complications were less reliable, although the incidence and Clavien–Dindo grading of severe complications (grade 3b or higher) were reliable.Keywords: quality registry, national registry, validation, colorectal cancer, Swedish registry

Introduction: Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) is a pattern of injury seen on kidney biopsy, with various underlying etiologies. The component types, including complement-mediated MPGN, are relatively rare. This study presents longitudinal real-world data over 20 years in a tertiary renal center in the UK. Methods: All patients with an MPGN pattern on kidney biopsy between 2000 and 2020 were identified. After applying exclusion criteria, 38 patients remained. Data including patient demographics, details of the renal histology from the kidney biopsy, baseline laboratory results, treatments received, and clinical outcomes including renal replacement therapy and death were collected from the organization’s electronic patient record. Results: Twenty-eight of the cohort had immune complex-mediated MPGN, and 10 had complement-mediated MPGN (8 with C3 glomerulonephritis and 2 with dense deposit disease). Median follow-up was 72 months. Median age was 61 years. Overall, 60.5% were female, and 92.1% white. At presentation, median eGFR was 31.5 mL/min/1.73 m2 and uPCR 394 mg/mmol. Here, 78.9% received renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors and 71.1% received any immunosuppression. In total, 47.4% progressed to ESKD and 50% died during follow-up. Conclusions: The study found an older patient population than typically reported. Poor outcomes were observed in the overall cohort with progression to ESKD and mortality both at almost 50%. This may be influenced by the older patient population. Individualized management of patients with an MPGN biopsy finding is paramount, with comprehensive evaluation for triggers and complement abnormalities. Going forward, registry enrolment and collaborative studies may enhance knowledge and outcomes.

Problem. The relevance of this work is explained by the fact that there are no works at all in the reference and normative literature on the theory and practice of forensic auto technical examination, and even more so, methodical recommendations regarding the values of the braking parameters of vehicles of the M1 category with an electric power plant. Goal. The purpose of the work is to establish the factors that affect the braking parameters of M1 category vehicles with an electric or hybrid power unit. Methodology. The approaches adopted in the work to solve the set goals are based on the theory of conducting the experiment, the theory of the interaction of the pneumatic tire with the road surface, the theory of the car and the laws of theoretical mechanics. Results. On the basis of the obtained experimental data regarding the value of permanent deceleration and the time value of the increasing deceleration during emergency braking of the M1 category vehicles with an electric or hybrid power unit, the tasks will be solved necessary for conducting forensic engineering and transport examinations for specific road traffic events with the participation of M1 category vehicles with an electric or hybrid power unit. Originality. The results of the study provided an opportunity to get an idea of the influence of factors on the braking parameters of M1 category vehicles with an electric or hybrid power unit. Practical value. The obtained results can be recommended to forensic experts when writing expert opinions or expert studies.

The rational homotopy type of a mapping space is a way to describe the structure of the space using the algebra of its homotopy groups and the differential graded algebra of its cochains. An L∞-model is a graded Lie algebra with a family of higher-order brackets satisfying the generalized Jacobi identity and antisymmetry. It can be used to study the rational homotopy type of a space. The nilpotency index of an L∞-model is useful in understanding a space's algebraic structure. In this paper, we compute the rational homotopy type of the component of some mapping spaces between projective spaces and determine the nilpotency index of corresponding L∞-models.

Producing leek seeds without replanting one-year-old plants is cheaper and more practical, but can be risky in climates with cold winters. This research aimed to assess whether accelerating the planting of seedlings and using Fulvohumin fertilizer, containing, among others, humic acids can make such production less risky. Three dates were used for planting leek seedlings: April 10, April 25, and May 10. Fulvohumin was used presowing, foliarly, and both. Both factors significantly improved seed production. The best results were obtained at the earliest planting date, as the plants were strong and best prepared for the generative phase and the frost period. Fulvohumin significantly improved growth and development parameters, mainly when used before sowing and as foliar application. In the best combination, with two applications of fertilizers, the seed yield increased by 39%, compared to the control (without Fulvohumin fertilization), and the seed yield of plants planted on April 10 was 17% higher compared to plants planted on April 25 (considered as standard) and 39% higher than those planted on May 10. Seed yield varied in the three subsequent years of the study, but each year, the planting date and Fulvohumin had a similar effect on seed yield.

Teff, which is surged in other continent and a cornerstone Ethiopian grain used as injera, suffers from low yield due to outdated sowing practices and minimal use of modern fertilizers. The traditional method is inefficient, squandering seeds and fertilizer, and relying on a large number of animals for trampling. Researchers addressed this challenge by creating a new machine that combines a seedbed compactor with a tool that sows both teff seeds and fertilizer. They conducted lab tests to analyze how different settings affected the machine's performance. These settings included the speed (varying from 2.11 to 3.14 km per hour), the amount of fertilizer and seeds in the hopper (full, half, or quarter full), and the shape of the opening in the metering plate (circular, square, or a specific angled square). The weight of the compactor was also adjusted (40, 50, or 60 kg).Analysis of the results using Design Expert-13 software showed that a circular opening in the metering plate combined with a speed of 2.6 km per hour yielded optimal results, distributing 4.2 kg of seeds and 96.2 kg of fertilizer per hectare. Additionally, the compactor filled with 50 kg of sand generated a compaction force of 483.7 N. These findings satisfy the design requirements of applying 3–5 kg of seeds, 50–100 kg of fertilizer, and achieving a compaction force of 480 N per hectare. This method significantly reduces seed waste by 81 % compared to traditional techniques.

Cultural beliefs, personal experiences, and historic abuses within the healthcare system—rooted in structural racism—all contribute to community distrust in science and medicine. This lack of trust, particularly within underserved communities, contributes to decreased participation in clinical trials and a lack of representation in the data. Open dialogue about community concerns and experiences related to research participation and medical care processes can help build trust and change attitudes and behaviors that affect community health. This protocol outlines an approach to increase trust in science and clinical trials among communities in the Bronx, New York that are typically underrepresented in research data. Bridging Research, Accurate Information and Dialogue (BRAID) is a two-phased, evidence-based community engagement model that creates safe spaces for bilateral dialogues between trusted community messengers, and clinicians and scientists. The team will conduct a series of BRAID Conversation Circles on the topic of clinical trials with local trusted community messengers. Participants will be members of the community who are perceived as “trusted messengers” and can represent the community’s voice because they have insight into “what matters” locally. Conversation Circles will be audiotaped, transcribed, and analyzed to identify emergent challenges and opportunities surrounding clinical trial participation. These key themes will subsequently inform the codesign and co-creation of tailored messages and outreach efforts that community participants can disseminate downstream to their social networks. Surveys will be administered to all participants before and after each Conversation Circle to understand participants experience and evaluate changes in knowledge and attitudes about clinical trials, including protections for research participants the advantages of having diverse representation. Changes in motivation and readiness to share accurate clinical trial information downstream will also be assessed. Lastly, we will measure participants dissemination of codesigned science messages through their social networks by tracking participant specific resource URLs of materials and videos posted on a BRAID website. This protocol will assess the effectiveness and adoptability of an innovative CBPR model that can be applied to a wide range of public health issues and has the potential to navigate the ever-changing needs of the communities that surround health systems.

IntroductionEthiopia has one of the highest maternal death rates in the world, with 412 deaths for every 100,000 live births. A qualified healthcare professional's care during pregnancy, delivery, and the postnatal period is crucial to saving the lives of the mother and her child. The continuum of maternity health services in Ethiopia is still shallow, despite efforts to increase the use of these services. This study's goal was to evaluate the magnitude and factors influencing the entire continuum of care for maternal health services in Chiro City in 2024.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 15 January to 15 February 2024, among mothers who gave birth in the last year preceding the data collection period in Chiro City, Eastern Ethiopia. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to identify determinants of the complete continuum of care. A P-value of

Summary: Background: In the CALCIPHYX trial, we investigated hexasodium fytate, an inhibitor of vascular calcification, for the treatment of calcific uraemic arteriolopathy (calciphylaxis), a rare condition characterised by painful, non-healing skin lesions. Methods: In this international, phase 3, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, adults with an ulcerated calciphylaxis lesion and pain visual analogue scale (VAS) score ≥50/100 were randomised 1:1 to hexasodium fytate 7 mg/kg or placebo intravenously during maintenance haemodialysis. Primary efficacy outcomes were an 8-item modification of the Bates-Jensen Wound Assessment Tool (BWAT-CUA) and Pain VAS in the intention-to-treat population. ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT04195906. Findings: Overall, 34/37 patients randomised to hexasodium fytate and 26/34 patients randomised to placebo completed the 12-week randomised treatment period. At Week 12, both groups (hexasodium fytate versus placebo) showed similar improvements in BWAT-CUA (mean [standard deviation (SD)], −5.3 [5.2] versus −6.0 [6.2]; least squares mean difference, 0.3 [96% confidence interval (CI): −2.5, 3.0]; p = 0.88) and Pain VAS (mean [SD], −19.5 [26.9] versus −32.2 [38.5]; least squares mean difference, 11.5 [96% CI: −4.8, 27.8]; p = 0.15). One patient randomised to placebo briefly received hexasodium fytate in error. Serious adverse events through Week 12 included: calciphylaxis-related events leading to hospitalisation (2/38 [5%] versus 11/33 [33%]) and death (1/38 [3%] versus 5/33 [15%]). During the subsequent 12 weeks of open-label hexasodium fytate and 4 weeks of follow-up, there were no additional calciphylaxis-related events leading to hospitalisation. Over the course of the entire trial, deaths were 2/38 [5%] for the hexasodium fytate group and 7/33 [21%] for the placebo group. Interpretation: In patients with calciphylaxis, BWAT-CUA and Pain VAS improved similarly in hexasodium fytate- and placebo-treated patients; over the course of the entire trial, there were fewer deaths and calciphylaxis-related events leading to hospitalisation in the hexasodium fytate group. Funding: Funded by Sanifit, a CSL Vifor company.

The article considers the problem of integration of logistic business processes of supply of resources (logistics), production and distribution at an industrial enterprise. The aim of the article is to develop an integrated system of logistic management of a production enterprise on the basis of a study of the mechanism for managing the material flow. As a result of the study, the principles of building a logistic system for integrated management of purchasing, production and distribution logistics of enterprise have been formulated and an integrated management scheme has been elaborated, in which complexes of tasks at certain levels of management have been allocated. At the upper level of management is the distribution of the quarterly production program by months, taking into account production capacities based on the principle of specialization of production in time. At the middle level of management – drawing up interrelated plans and schedules of logistics, manufacture and shipment of finished products. At the lower level of management – the compilation of shift-daily tasks on the basis of operational planning of the work of workshops, sites and individual workplaces. When drawing up interrelated calendar plans-schedules for the release and shipment of products, decisions are made that simultaneously meet the requirements of production and the conditions for the sale of products. These decisions are the basis ones for further specification of them by production units of the enterprise. The proposed scheme provides for communication along a closed loop of the logistic system of integrated management: planning, accounting, control, regulation. To solve problems at all levels of enterprise management, it is advisable to use modern software systems, such as SAP ERP, Oracle Supply Chain Management, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management, Infor SCM, Plex Manufacturing Cloud.

The article is aimed at analyzing the public procurement system in Ukraine in 2019–2023 and substantiation of the role of central procurement organizations (CPOs) as an effective instrument for countering corruption and violations in this area. The research methodology is based on the analysis of statistical data on the volume and features of public procurement in Ukraine for the specified period. As a result of the study, the structure of violations in the process of organization of public procurement in Ukraine is analyzed. The essence, advantages and foreign experience of functioning of central procurement organizations are considered. The results of the study show that the public procurement system needs to be improved due to the high level of violations, in particular in the procedures for considering tender proposals and drawing up tender documentation. A shortage of highly qualified personnel in public procurement management has been identified, especially in the regions. The role of CPO as specialized institutions for centralized procurement is substantiated. The main advantages of the CPO are defined as follows: saving budget funds, increasing professionalism, unification of approaches, reducing the administrative burden on customers, the possibility of concluding long-term agreements. The positive experience of the leading CPO of Great Britain – Crown Commercial Service, which provides effective transparent public procurement, achieves significant discounts due to the consolidation of demand, has a team of specialists in various fields, applies standard procedures and contracts, online catalogs, cost analytics, is analyzed. The organizational models of the CPO in the EU countries in accordance with Directive 2014/24/EU are studied. It is substantiated that the active development of the conception of the CPO in Ukraine, taking into account the positive world experience, strengthening human resources, improving legislation in this area and eliminating typical violations, are of particular importance for improving the public procurement system and countering corruption. Prospects for further research are related to the study of specific ways to implement the best world practices of central procurement organizations in Ukraine.

In the 21st century, the practice of agriculture is becoming more interesting, valuable, and attractive by integrating many technologies and systems. Among the different technologies and systems Crop Simulation Models (APSIM, DSSAT, and AquaCrop) are widely used to predict crop yield, forecast climate change impacts, and optimize different management practices including pesticides, water, and fertilizers. Many researchers used these computerized representations of crops worldwide and in Ethiopia for the aforementioned purposes. These crop models were used in Ethiopia by different researchers for yield prediction. Climate change impacts assessment, and the most crucial factor that policymakers and agricultural production system planners should consider when making decisions is the ability of crop simulation models, such as the agricultural production system simulator (APSIM), to save time and resources while improving prediction accuracy. Because most models are poorly or never evaluated, it is unknown if they are useful in the decision-making process. Thus, to simulate the growth, development, yield, and climate change impacts of the chosen crops in Ethiopia, this research reviews the status, application, accuracy of result prediction, challenges, and research opportunities of the APSIM crop simulation model in Ethiopia’s agroecological environment.

Introduction: Bloodstream Infections (BSIs) are important causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Blood culture is the most important diagnostic tool for BSI. The epidemiology and outcome of BSI are constantly changing due to increasing antimicrobial resistance, changing patterns of antibiotic drug usage, and the increased use of transient or permanent medical devices. Thus, regular monitoring of the bacterial aetiology of BSI and their antibiograms is necessary. Aim: To determine the bacteriological profile and antibiotic susceptibility patterns among suspected BSI patients. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS), Imphal, Manipur, India, from September 2018 to August 2020. A total of 481 suspected BSI patients were included in the study. The blood culture samples were collected under aseptic conditions and cultured for seven days. The isolates were identified using conventional biochemical tests, and the antibiotic susceptibility pattern was determined by the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method and the epsilometer test (E-test). Methicillin resistance among the staphylococcal isolates was detected using the cefoxitin disk diffusion method. Data analysis was performed using EpiInfoTM version 7.0, and the Chi-square test was used as a statistical test. Results: A total of 150 (31.2%) blood samples were culture positive out of the 481 samples processed from suspected BSI patients. The predominant isolates were gram-positive, accounting for 113/150 (75.3%), while gram-negatives accounted for 37/150 (24.7%). Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Coagulase Negative Staphylococci (CoNS) were the primary pathogens isolated. Methicillin resistance was detected in 59 (54.6%) of the staphylococcal isolates {52 (54.7%) were Methicillin Resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and out of the 13 CoNS isolates, 7 (53.9%) were Methicillin Resistant CoNS (MRCoNS)}. The most susceptible drugs for gram-positives were vancomycin and linezolid, while aminoglycosides and imipenem were the most susceptible drugs for gram-negatives. Conclusion: The study highlighted the prevalence and pattern of aerobic bacterial isolates in BSI cases at JNIMS Hospital, as well as, the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of the isolates. Regular epidemiological studies of BSIs, regarding the pathogens and their antibiotic susceptibility patterns, are necessary to guide clinicians in choosing appropriate empirical therapy and to update the hospital antibiotic policy from time to time. This promotes rational antibiotic use and reduces resistance among bacteria.

For the first time, the results of magnetometry studies on the territory of the Belinskoye archaeological heritage site (AHS) located on the Kerch Peninsula are published in the article. This monument, which included a hill fort and necropolis, intermittently existed from the turn of I–II to the beginning of the X century. Excavations 1996-2023 studied about 5.5 thousand m2, which is no more than 3% of its approximate area. Magnetic exploration carried out at the facility during 2007–2015 made it possible to study almost 90% of the territory of the settlement and at least 1/3 of the necropolis. Thus, among all the archaeological sites of Taurika, AHS Belinskoye is the most studied. Despite the hypothetical nature of the information received, it can be concluded that in early Byzantine times the object was a fortified settlement with urban neighborhoods divided by a grid of streets. At the Khazar time, the eastern part of the settlement was occupied by manor development with the use of its northern and central parts for economic purposes.

Among materials from the Volga Bulgaria of the 11th–13th centuries, as well as the territories under Bulgarian rule, forged oval-shaped articles reminiscent of shoe heel section can be found. There is no unanimous opinion concerning these finds among researchers. A considerable assortment of these items was excavated at the Rozhdestvensky settlement in the Perm Region. Analysis showed that they were made of raw steel, with the base a half-oval plate with folded edges and with three apertures for little cylinder-capped nails, the cap standing out on the item’s surface.Cylinder nuts were put on the nails from the inner side and were forged when heated. The nuts held a leather plate in place, which was thought to be a lower lift of the built-up heel. Thus the items under scrutiny served as heeltaps. It is recognized that first heels appeared in the 9th century as a feature of Persian riders’ footwear. They helped to hold the feet firmly in the stirrups when the warrior stood on the stirrups to shoot with a bow or to slash with a sabre more efficiently. Volga Bulgaria had close relations with Iran, therefore Bulgar riders may well have adopted a new kind of footwear. Even though there is no other evidence save the iron heeltaps, it may be assumed that heeled footwear was adopted in Volga Bulgaria sooner than in Rus and European countries, where it happened in the 16th century. This fact is essential for both studying the footwear of the Middle Ages and tactics of fighting on horseback.

The paper deals with the competitiveness of enterprises in manufacture of textiles, which is currently closely linked to innovations taking into account the principles of circular economy. Globally, textile consumption has the third largest negative impact on water and land use and the fourth largest negative impact on the environment and climate change. The motivation for companies to mitigate their negative environmental impact and to implement circular economy principles should always be efficient and cost-effective. The competitiveness of a company or sector can be assessed through labour productivity, which should grow at a rate higher than the rate of growth of the average wage. The paper recommends assessing the relationships between the development of the indicators of labour productivity, average wage and return on assets using inequalities. It also analyses the frequency of innovation of enterprises in the textile industry. Using the example of a specific enterprise, it points out the possibilities of innovation, such as the use of renewable energy, increasing revenues in the form of selling textile waste for further use, and introducing environmentally friendly processes into production.

Abstract Introduction Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is one of the leading causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults. This epidemiological study describes a renal centre’s 20-year experience of primary FSGS. Methods Patients were identified with a diagnosis of primary FSGS after exclusion of known secondary causes. In this retrospective observational study, data was collected for baseline demographics, immunosuppression and outcomes. A two-step cluster analysis was used to identify natural groupings within the dataset. Results The total cohort was made up of 87 patients. Those who received immunosuppression had lower median serum albumin than those who did not- 23g/L vs 40g/L (p 30g/L. This group may still have immune mediated disease and thus could potentially benefit from immunosuppression. Trial registration This study protocol was reviewed and approved by the ‘Research and Innovation committee of the Northern Care Alliance NHS Group’, study approval number (Ref: ID 22HIP54).

ANCA-associated vasculitides (AAV) are rare, autoimmune conditions associated with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and mortality. Data have predominately been from White populations of European ancestry although geographical differences are well documented. Few studies have looked at the incidence, phenotype and clinical outcomes of ethnic minority patients, in particular Indo-Asian populations. A two-center, retrospective cohort study was conducted of patients with ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis (AAGN), self-identifying as Indo-Asian in the North West, UK between 2009 and 2023. A control group of White patients was identified from the same databases and recruited consecutively in relation to the original cohort of Indo-Asian patients. A total of 66 patients were included, 24 patients of Indo-Asian ethnicity and a control cohort of 42 patients of White ethnicity. Indo-Asian patients had a lower median age at diagnosis (53.0 vs. 57.5 years, p = 0.15) and there was an increased prevalence of diabetes mellitus (33.3% vs. 4.8%, p = 0.002) and a higher incidence of previous TB exposure (12.5% vs. 0%, p = 0.019). Outcomes including relapse, ESKD and mortality were similar. We demonstrated an increased crude incidence of AAGN in Indo-Asian patients in the UK compared to similar epidemiological studies. Consideration needs to be given to epidemiological and genetic research, achieved by collaboration and broader recruitment in clinical trials.

The biological activities and related mechanisms of curcumin, a major polyphenolic compound in turmeric, the rhizome of Curcuma longa, have been extensively investigated. Due to its poor solubility in water, the analysis of curcumin’s biological activities is limited in most aqueous experimental systems. In the present study, the effects of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a dietary-compatible vehicle, on the solubility, stability, cellular uptake, and bioactivities of curcumin were investigated. Curcumin solubility was improved significantly by PVA; the color intensity of curcumin aqueous solution in the presence of PVA increased concentration-dependently with its peak shift to a shorter wavelength. Improved suspension stability and photostability of curcumin in an aqueous solution were also observed in the presence of PVA, even at 62.5 μg/mL. The scavenging activities of curcumin against DPPH, ABTS, AAPH radicals, and nitric oxide were enhanced significantly in the presence of PVA. PVA at 250 μg/mL also significantly enhanced the cytotoxic activity of curcumin against both HCT 116 colon cancer and INT 407 (HeLa-derived) embryonic intestinal cells by reducing the IC50 from 16 to 11 μM and 25 to 15 μM, respectively. PVA improved the cellular uptake of curcumin in a concentration-dependent manner in INT 407 cells; it increased the cellular levels more effectively at lower curcumin treatment concentrations. The present results indicate that PVA improves the solubility and stability of curcumin, and changes in these chemical behaviors of curcumin in aqueous systems by PVA could enhance the bioavailability and pharmacological efficacy of curcumin.

Photosensitizers cause oxidative damages in various biological systems under light. In this study, the method for analyzing photosensitizing activity of various dietary and medicinal sources was developed using 1-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-3,5-diphenylformazan (thiazolyl blue formazan; MTT-F) as a probe. Significant and quantitative decolorization of MTT-F was observed in the presence of photosensitizers used in this study under light but not under dark conditions. The decolorization of MTT-F occurred irradiation time-, light intensity-, and photosensitizer concentration-dependently. The decolorized MTT-F was reversibly reduced by living cells; the LC-MS/MS results indicated the formation of oxidized products with −1 m/z of base peak from MTT-F, suggesting that MTT-F decolorized by photosensitizers was its corresponding tetrazolium. The present results indicate that MTT-F is a reliable probe for the quantitative analysis of photosensitizing activities, and the MTT-F-based method can be an useful tool for screening and evaluating photosensitizing properties of various compounds used in many industrial purposes.

IntroductionBreast cancer continues to be the most common malignancy and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Ethiopia. The poor prognosis and high mortality rate of breast cancer patients in the country are largely caused by late-stage diagnosis. Hence, understanding the epidemiology of late-stage diagnosis is essential to address this important problem. However, previous reports in Ethiopia indicated inconsistent findings. Therefore, this literature review was conducted to generate dependable evidence by summarizing the prevalence and determinants of late-stage diagnosis among breast cancer patients in Ethiopia.MethodsPertinent articles were retrieved by systematically searching on major electronic databases and gray literature. Data were extracted into an Excel spreadsheet and analyzed using the STATA 17 statistical software. The pooled estimates were summarized using the random effect meta-analysis model. Heterogeneity and small study effect were evaluated using the I2 statistics and Egger's regression test in conjunction with the funnel plot, respectively. Meta-regression, sub-group analysis, and sensitivity analysis were also employed. Protocol registration number: CRD42024496237.ResultsThe pooled prevalence of late-stage diagnosis after combining reports of 24 studies with 8,677 participants was 65.85 (95% CI: 58.38, 73.32). Residence (adjusted OR: 1.92; 95% CI: 1.45, 2.53), patient delay at their first presentation (adjusted OR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.56, 4.49), traditional medicine use (adjusted OR: 2.54; 95% CI: 1.89, 3.41), and breast self-examination practice (adjusted OR: 0.28; 95% CI: 0.09, 0.88) were significant determinants of late-stage diagnosis.ConclusionTwo-thirds of breast cancer patients in Ethiopia were diagnosed at an advanced stage. Residence, delay in the first presentation, traditional medicine use, and breast self-examination practice were significantly associated with late-stage diagnosis. Public education about breast cancer and its early detection techniques is crucial to reduce mortality and improve the survival of patients. Besides, improving access to cancer screening services is useful to tackle the disease at its curable stages.

BACKGROUND: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical, psychological, emotional, and mood disturbances that occurs after a women's ovulation. Worldwide, PMS affects 47.8% of the reproductive age group girls. The highest prevalence is found in developed countries. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The objectives of the study were to assess the level of knowledge regarding PMS among adolescent girls, to determine the association between the level of knowledge with selected demographic variables, and to develop and validate information booklet. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Quantitative approach and descriptive research design were used. One hundred and seventy-one adolescent girls were selected using nonprobability convenient sampling techniques from selected schools of Navi Mumbai. The structured knowledge questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data obtained were tabulated and analyzed in terms of objectives of the study using descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS: Major findings indicated that adolescent girls had average (56.5%) and good (37.1%) knowledge regarding PMS. The area of introduction to menstruation displayed the maximum mean percentage, whereas the least mean percentage was seen in the area of introduction and meaning of PMS. There was no association found between the level of knowledge with age, type of family, information on PMS, and family history of PMS, whereas the association was found with age of onset of PMS and monthly family income. The content of information booklet was validated by the Content Validity Index (CVI) calculation. The CVI score of the booklet was 0.94. CONCLUSION: Findings revealed that there was necessity for developing an information booklet to improve the knowledge regarding PMS among adolescent girls in selected schools of Navi Mumbai.

Guglielmo Mantica,1 Francesco Chierigo,1,2 Farzana Cassim,3 Francesca Ambrosini,1,2 Stefano Tappero,1,2 Rafaela Malinaric,1,2 Stefano Parodi,1,2 Andrea Benelli,4 Federico Dotta,4 Marco Ennas,4 Martina Beverini,1,2 Chiara Vaccaro,5 Salvatore Smelzo,6 Giovanni Guano,1,2 Federico Mariano,1,2 Calogero Paola,1,2 Giorgia Granelli,1,2 Virginia Varca,5 Carlo Introini,4 Salvatore Dioguardi,7 Alchiede Simonato,7 Andrea Gregori,8 Franco Gaboardi,6 Carlo Terrone,1,2 André Van der Merwe3 1IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, U.O. Urologia, Genova, Italy; 2Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Integrated Sciences (DISC), University of Genova, Genova, Italy; 3Department of Urology, Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; 4Department of Urology, Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy; 5Department of Urology, ASST Rhodense, G. Salvini Hospital, Milan, Italy; 6Department of Urology, San Raffaele Turro Hospital, Milan, Italy; 7Department of Surgical, Oncological, and Oral Sciences, Section of Urology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 8Urology Unit, Ospedale Sacco, Milan, ItalyCorrespondence: Guglielmo Mantica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi, 10, Genoa, 16132, Italy, Tel +390105552815, Email guglielmo.mantica@gmail.comPurpose: To evaluate the prostate cancer (PCa) detection rate in men with chronic use of Aspirin and to compare it with the detection rate of non-users.Patients and Methods: Prospectively maintained database regarding patients undergoing prostate biopsy over the last 10 years in five institutions. Patients were divided into two groups according to their exposure to Aspirin. We relied on multivariable linear and logistic regression models to test whether Aspirin administration was associated with lower PSA values at prostate biopsy, higher PCa diagnosis, and higher Gleason Grade Grouping (GGG) at biopsy.Results: Were identified 1059 patients, of whom 803 (76%) did not take Aspirin vs 256 (24%) were taking it. In multivariable log-linear regression analysis, Aspirin administration was associated with lower PSA levels (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.71– 0.97, p = 0.01), after controlling for age, prostate volume, smoking history, associated inflammation at prostate biopsy, presence of PCa at biopsy, and GGG. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, Aspirin administration was not found to be a predictor of PCa at prostate biopsy (OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.82– 2.40, p = 0.21) after controlling for age, PSA, smoking history, prostate volume, findings at digital rectal examination and the number of biopsy cores. In patients with PCa at prostate biopsy (n = 516), Aspirin administration was found to predict higher GGG (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.01– 4.87, p = 0.04).Conclusion: Aspirin administration was found to be a predictor of more aggressive GGG. These findings suggest that a lower PSA threshold should be considered in patients taking Aspirin, as, despite low PSA levels, they might harbour aggressive PCa.Keywords: prostate-specific antigen, aspirin, inflammation, prostate cancer, prostate biopsy

The purpose of the study is to show the possibility of using high-tonnage waste from the chemical industry in the production of building materials. Methods and materials. Methods of data comparison and analysis were used. Solid residues of distiller sludge with a moisture content of 25-30%, an active calcium oxide content of 12-13% and quartz sand with a grain size of 2.2, humidity of 5-6% were used as materials. Results. Compositions and methods for obtaining a cement-free binder based on the solid residue of soda and quartz sand production are proposed. The possibility of obtaining a binder based on the solid residue of distiller slurries according to two technological schemes: drying of the solid residue and grinding together with quartz sand; firing of the solid residue and grinding together with quartz sand, has been confirmed by our tests. The introduced concept of “Eco-friendly hybrid cements” (Eco-friendly hybrid binders (EHB)) emphasizes that they are binders made up of multicomponent mineral raw materials of secondary resources. Practical significance. Solid by-products of the chemical industry can be used as an auxiliary inorganic component. This will make it possible to create eco-friendly hybrid cements ready for use, which are sealed only with water, which contributes to the development of such binders by industry and the rational use of secondary mineral resources.

The article presents the results of sociological studies of the level of subjective well-being of residents of the Russian metropolis (using the example of Nizhny Novgorod). The indicator of the level of well-being is one of the important parameters that city authorities and architects are now paying attention to when designing urban space. The purpose of the article is to determine how the residents of the metropolis assess the accessibility (physical, financial, etc.) of cultural institutions and products. Quantitative research methods are used to achieve this goal: surveys were conducted in which several thousand Nizhny Novgorod residents took part. The authors present a comparative analysis of the estimates of citizens with an interval of 10 years. The results of the analysis give an idea that the level of well-being in Russian megacities is changing slowly. The choice of Nizhny Novgorod is not accidental. The geographical and economic position of Nizhny Novgorod and the ethnocultural composition of the region make it possible to extrapolate the results of the study of a particular city to the major cities of Central Russia. Another significant factor in choosing the city was the fact that since 2021 Nizhny Novgorod has acquired the status of capitals – the “capital of sunsets”, “youth capital”, “cultural capital”. It is quite natural to ask how the status of the “capital” influenced the subjective indicators of satisfaction with the quality of life. The presented data help to get an idea of the specifics of cultural consumption of a resident of a modern Russian megalopolis, as well as the degree of his involvement in cultural production. The results of the study are also of practical importance in the design and modernization of urban space, as well as the optimization of social policy of the state.

Eco-friendly processes are sustainability, environmental economics, natural resource management, referring to guidelines and policies that claim no harm upon the environment or ecosystems. In this study we will focus to a large extent upon a personality maturity concept in the context of ecology and psychology of environmentally responsible behavior issues. The structure of personal maturity is described. The purpose of the study is to analyze aspects of personal growth during student years in terms of environmental education, namely the development of personal maturity, which is the fundamental condition for successful self-realization in the future. The methods of given study are theoretical analysis and empirical research of personal maturity of students-future ecologists. In the practical part of the work, an analysis of the results of an empirical study was carried out to identify the characteristics of personal maturity. The following methods are used in the empirical study: personal maturity test questionnaire Yu.Z. Gilbukh, M. Scheer and J. Maddux. According to the test for determining the level of self-efficacy most of respondents had low estimates of interpersonal self-efficacy. Thus, in general personal maturity and perfectionism are interconnected; the higher the personal maturity, the lower the level of perfectionism of students.

The article examines the content and process of forming the principles of a customer-oriented approach to the management of transport enterprises in the context of sustainable development. The author’s definition of the concept of “principles of a customer-oriented approach to the management of transport enterprises” is given on the basis of its understanding as strategic and tactical areas of activity aimed at maximizing the satisfaction of customers’ needs and expectations through the use of digital technologies and innovative approaches. The key principles of a customer-oriented approach to managing transport enterprises in the context of sustainable development are developed, among which the following are highlighted: understanding customer needs; personalization of service; interaction at all stages; digital transformation of processes; data analysis and forecasting; creation of a digital environment; training and development of personnel; culture of service and open communication; continuous analysis and improvement; focus on the sustainability of relations, etc. The author’s own model of digital transformation of transport enterprises using the principles of a customer-oriented approach is proposed. A generalized characterization and impact on the processes of customer focus of individual digital technologies for managing customer relations of transport enterprises is presented.