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Summary: Pyrexia of undetermined origin (PUO) is defined as fever with a temperature of over 38°C of more than three weeks' duration whose source is not determined after a careful history and physical examination. Clinical handling is different and depends on the age of the child. Acute episodes of fever represent between 10 and 20 percent of outpatient paediatric consultations, occurring on the average between four and six times annually. There is usually an increase in the winter months corresponding to an increase in respiratory and gastrointestinal viral infections. Different scales of observation have been developed that are aimed at identifying those children with underlying bacterial or viral ilnesses. The diagnosis of PUO is determined by careful evaluation of the presenting picture. The handling of a prolonged episode of fever should be on individual basis and should include the evaluation of the risks of serious bacterial infection. The use of antibiotics is generally not indicated except in the neonate when they are administered parenterally following appropriate investigations, including lumbar puncture.

The pyrolysis process drove scientific attention lately, as it represents the basis for the production of second generation of synthetic fuels and other chemicals. The process takes place in inert atmosphere, and liquids, gases, and small number of solid particles represent main reaction products. Pyrolysis can be thermal or catalytic. Thermal pyrolysis requires very high temperatures, and products do not have high quality, while addition of catalysts reduces the reaction time, there is a better conversion rate, and lower operation temperature. In this paper, multi-layered plastic waste is used as raw material for thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The composition of used plastic waste was previously determined based on the analysis of a large number of samples from fraction of mechanically non-recyclable plastic waste collected from waste treatment facilities in Croatia. Two natural zeolites with the most promising catalysts properties were selected for the reaction. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to understand the pyrolysis process of multi-layered plastic waste and to determine the thermochemical behavior and kinetics. Kinetic analysis was performed using the isoconversional Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose method. The aim of this paper was to investigate how selected natural zeolite catalysts influence the kinetics of the pyrolysis process of multi-layered plastic waste.

AbstractWe developed new iminosugar-based glycosidase inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2. Known drugs (miglustat, migalastat, miglitol, and swainsonine) were chosen as lead compounds to develop three classes of glycosidase inhibitors (α-glucosidase, α-galactosidase, and mannosidase). Molecular modelling of the lead compounds, synthesis of the compounds with the highest docking scores, enzyme inhibition tests, and in vitro antiviral assays afforded rationally designed inhibitors. Two highly active α-glucosidase inhibitors were discovered, where one of them is the most potent iminosugar-based anti-SARS-CoV-2 agent to date (EC90 = 1.94 µM in A549-ACE2 cells against Omicron BA.1 strain). However, galactosidase inhibitors did not exhibit antiviral activity, whereas mannosidase inhibitors were both active and cytotoxic. As our iminosugar-based drug candidates act by a host-directed mechanism, they should be more resilient to drug resistance. Moreover, this strategy could be extended to identify potential drug candidates for other viral infections.

The avian influenza virus (AIV), traditionally confined to avian hosts, has recently been detected in various mammal species, raising significant concerns for both animal and public health, necessitating efficient and accurate methods for virus detection and characterization. This study presents a sequencing protocol combined with a comprehensive bioinformatics pipeline designed for the sequencing and analysis of AIV genomes. The presented streamlined approach encompasses whole genome PCR-amplification of the viral genome, enabling the genome characterization and detection of viral mutations with high precision. An amplicon-based MiniSeq sequencing workflow based on a set of PCR primers targeting all genome segments was developed. Three samples from H5 high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks in Serbia were sequenced using the MiniSeq platform. The protocol involves optimized sample preparation, tailored specifically for AIV, library preparation and sequencing. This is complemented by a robust bioinformatics pipeline that includes quality control, read mapping, consensus genome generation, subtyping and pathotyping, as well as statistical sequencing data. The pipeline efficiently processes raw sequencing data, ensuring high-quality genome assemblies and accurate identification of viral strains. The protocol was used on AIV samples from various avian species, demonstrating its applicability and reliability. The results highlight the protocol’s capability to generate comprehensive genomic data, which is crucial for monitoring viral evolution and informing public health interventions. The described integrated approach offers a powerful tool for AIV surveillance and research, facilitating timely and informed decision-making in response to avian influenza outbreaks. This protocol can be readily adapted for use in various laboratory settings, contributing to global efforts in combating avian influenza and enhancing our understanding of its genomic landscape.

Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous disease of unknown etiology that can affect almost any organ. Although the acute form can have spontaneous regression, a certain number of patients can have a chronic form, which leads to an increase in mortality and a decrease in the quality of life. Considering that the risk factors are still unknown, we wanted to compare the characteristics of patients with acute and chronic forms of sarcoidosis in Serbia in order to determine significant differences between them with hopes of contributing to everyday clinical practice. A total of 2380 patients treated in our clinic were enrolled in this study. They were separated into the following two groups: 1126 patients with acute form and 1254 patients with chronic form. They were further compared by gender, smoking status, radiological status, exposition, biomarkers for sarcoidosis, organ involvement, and other comorbidities; the distribution of patients according to regions of Serbia was also noted. Statistical significance was found in radiological findings (p < 0.001), biomarkers (calcium in 24 h urine p < 0.001; chitotriosidase p = 0.001), and the affliction of organs (p < 0.001). The differences noted in this paper could help improve our understanding of this disease.

Introduction: Bronchiectasis is a chronic progressive respiratory disease characterized by permanent dilatation of the bronchi. It is a complex condition with numerous different etiologies, co-morbidities, and a heterogeneous presentation. As we know, there is a lack of studies that describe the differences and compare the characteristics between focal and multifocal bronchiectasis. The aim of this study is to identify differences in clinical characteristics presentation, severity or distribution in focal and multifocal bronchiectasis, and prognostic implications. Methods: 126 patients with computed tomography (CT)-verified bronchiectasis were enrolled. Baseline characteristics that included age, sex, smoking history, and respiratory symptoms were recorded, with special attention paid to hemoptysis appearance, body mass index, and comorbidities. The type of bronchiectasis determined by CT scan and the modified Reiff scores indicating radiological severity were recorded. Patients were divided in two groups (I is focal and II is multifocal). Results: There were no statistically significant differences in age, smoking status, comorbidity, and BMI between the two groups. Multifocality was associated with a significantly higher proportion of females (p = 0.014), the rate of hemoptysis (p = 0.023), and the number of hospitalizations, but not of exacerbations and prevalence of immunodeficiency (p = 0.049). Significantly, a high number of subjects with multifocality had bronchiectasis of moderate severity, and post-infective and asthma-associated phenotypes were the dominant in this group. Unexpectedly, the cystic and varicose radiological phenotype (which need more time to develop) were more dominant in the focal group. The cylindrical phenotype was equally observed in the multifocal and focal groups. Conclusions: Our study suggests that multifocality is not related to age, number of exacerbations, or radiological phenotype, but it seems to be associated with the clinical post-infective phenotype, immunodeficiency, frequent hospitalizations, and severity. Thus, the presence of multifocal bronchiectasis may act as a biomarker of severity and poor outcomes in these patients.

This paper presents the results of investigations into the pyrolysis of waste polypropylene in a laboratory fixed-bed batch reactor. The experiments were designed and verified in such a way as to allow the application of the response surface methodology (RSM) in the development of an empirical mathematical model that quantifies the impacts mentioned above. The influence of the mass of the raw material (50, 100, and 150 g) together with the reactor temperature (450, 475, and 500 °C) and the reaction time (45, 50 and 75 min) was examined. It has been shown that the mass of the raw material, i.e., the filling volume of the reactor, has a significant influence on the pyrolysis oil yield. This influence exceeds the influence of reactor temperature and reaction time. This was explained by observing the temperature change inside the reactor at three different spots at the bottom, middle, and top of the reactor. The recorded temperature diagrams show that, with greater masses of feedstock, local overheating occurs in the middle part of the reactor, which leads to the overcracking of volatile products and, from there, to an increased formation of non-condensable gases, i.e., a reduced yield of pyrolytic oil.

Background: Achalasia is an esophageal motor disorder characterized by aperistalsis and the failure of the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. We want to find out whether external compression or recurrent micro-aspiration of undigested food has a functional effect on the airway. Methods: The aim of this research was to analyze the influence of achalasia on the peak expiratory flow and flow–volume curve. All of the 110 patients performed spirometry. Results: The mean diameter of the esophagus was 5.4 ± 2.1 cm, and nine of the patients had mega-esophagus. Seven patients had a plateau in the inspiratory part of the flow–volume curve, which coincides with the patients who had mega-esophagus. The rest of the patients had a plateau in the expiration part of the curve. The existence of a plateau in the diameter of the esophagus of more than 5 cm was significant (p 0.003). Statistical significance between the existence of a plateau and a lowered PEF (PEF < 80) has been proven (p 0.001). Also, a statistical significance between the subtype and diameter of more than 4 cm has been proved. There was no significant improvement in the PEF values after operation. In total, 20.9% of patients had a spirometry abnormality finding. The frequency of the improvement in the spirometry values after surgery did not differ significantly by achalasia subtype. The improvement in FEV1 was statistically significant compared to the FVC values. Conclusions: Awareness of the influence of achalasia on the pulmonary parameters is important because low values of PEF with a plateau on the spirometry loop can lead to misdiagnosis. The recognition of various patterns of the spirometry loop may help in identifying airway obstruction caused by another non-pulmonary disease such as achalasia.

Abstract Background Inflammation, oxidative stress and an imbalance between proteases and protease inhibitors are recognized pathophysiological features of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this study was to evaluate serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) in patients with COPD and to assess their relationship with lung function, symptom severity scores and recent acute exacerbations. Methods In this observational cohort study, serum levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 and the MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio in the peripheral blood of COPD patients with stable disease and healthy controls were determined, and their association with lung function (postbronchodilator spirometry, body plethysmography, single breath diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide), symptom severity scores (mMRC and CAT) and exacerbation history were assessed. Results COPD patients (n = 98) had significantly higher levels of serum MMP-9 and TIMP-1 and a higher MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio than healthy controls (n = 47) (p ≤ 0.001). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for MMP-9, TIMP-1 and the MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio for COPD diagnosis were 0.974, 0.961 and 0.910, respectively (all p

Background and Objectives: Atrial fibrillation (AF), a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia, significantly impacts the quality of life of those affected. The preferred treatment for symptomatic AF, particularly when pharmacological methods fall short, is catheter ablation with pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). While common pulmonary vein (PV) anatomical variants, such as the right accessory pulmonary vein and the common ostium of left pulmonary veins (LCPV), have been studied extensively, their impact on the long-term outcome of PVI is known to be minimal. However, data on less common anomalies, like the common ostium of the left and right inferior pulmonary vein (CIPV), remain scarce in the medical literature. This report aims to shed light on the challenges and outcomes of catheter ablation in a patient with a rare CIPV anomaly. By presenting this case, we contribute to the limited knowledge about the management of such unique anatomical variations in AF treatment and discuss the importance of individualized treatment approaches. Case Presentation: We present a case involving a 56-year-old male diagnosed with AF in 2018. Initial PVI treatment was successful, but the patient experienced symptom recurrence after three years. A preprocedural CT scan before the second ablation revealed a CIPV anomaly. During the repeat procedure, a right superior pulmonary vein (RSPV) reisolation was performed due to identified gaps in the previous ablation line. Post-procedure, the patient maintained a sinus rhythm and reported no further symptoms. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of recognizing rare PV anatomies like CIPV in the effective management of AF. Tailored ablation strategies, accounting for unique anatomical conditions, can lead to successful long-term outcomes, reinforcing the need for personalized approaches in AF treatment, especially in cases involving complex anatomical variations.

Buena parte de la literatura sobre parejas mixtas aborda su naturaleza intercultural en términos problemáticos, subrayando las dificultades de este tipo de relaciones. En este artículo, en cambio, abordamos su consideración como lugares de intercambio de conocimientos y aprendizaje, lo que nos permite mostrar su contribución a la redefinición de la identidad y al cuestionamiento de los modos coloniales de saber. Partimos de una muestra de 18 parejas heterosexuales, formadas por un miembro español y otro de distinta nacionalidad, procedentes de diversos proyectos de investigación de carácter cualitativo, realizados en la última década. El trabajo permite concluir con la consideración de las parejas mixtas como núcleos privilegiados para el estudio de las relaciones sociales polifónicas, cosmopolitas y hermenéuticas en el contexto de las relaciones cambiantes entre el centro y la periferia.

This paper presents the results of investigations on the pyrolysis of tyre waste in a laboratory fixed-bed batch reactor. The results regarding the influence of either the reaction temperature (425, 450, 475, and 500 °C) and the flow of the inert gas (0, 100, 300, and 500 mL/min) on product yield (referred to as pyrolysis of waste tyres) are also considered and discussed. On the basis of the abovementioned findings, the most appropriate experimental conditions were selected to contribute to a higher yield of pyrolysis oil. The sample of pyrolysis oil obtained from the experiments carried out in the selected optimal conditions (reaction time 120 min, temperature 450 °C and the inert gas flow of 100 mL/min) was subjected to calorimetric and infrared spectroscopy analysis.

There is a long process to transform bauxite, a critical raw material, into a substance with the required properties of cast aluminum alloys for use in electro automotive parts. Thanks to its unique properties, aluminum has become the material of choice for clean technology manufacturers in applications such as use in the automotive industry, renewable energy, batteries, electrical systems, resource-saving packaging, energy efficient buildings and clean mobility. Restructuring of the economy, the oil crisis, air pollution and global warming are some of the factors that have moved the automotive industry towards electrification since the beginning of the 21st century. This paper aims to highlight the required properties of cast aluminum alloys applied to the production of electro automotive parts, such as their mechanical and thermophysical properties, dimensional stability, corrosion resistance, electromagnetic compatibility and crashworthiness. Furthermore, this paper discusses which of the cast aluminum–silicon alloys, as well as the heat treatments and casting processes, are most suitable.

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T) cell therapy achieved remarkable success in B-cell leukemia and lymphoma which led to its incorporation in treatment protocols for these diseases. CAR T cell therapy for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients showed less success compared to other malignant tumors. In this review, we discuss the published results regarding CAR T cell therapy of CLL, possible mechanisms of failures and expected developments.

IntroductionSarcoidosis is a multiorgan, multisystem chronic disease of unknown etiology and unpredictable course. Health status is reduced in sarcoidosis and assessing it is a difficult multitask effort due to many faces this disease might have. Recently, a new questionnaire for assessing health status in sarcoidosis was developed by a group of authors from England-King's Sarcoidosis Questionnaire (KSQ). The benefit of KSQ is the ability to develop the best care plan for the patient, as well as to differentiate the efficacy of the administered treatment.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to validate the KSQ in Serbian speaking population of sarcoidosis patients. The test itself is a modular, multi-organ health status measure for patients with sarcoidosis for use in clinic and the evaluation of therapies. The correlation of KSQ with different clinical course of sarcoidosis (acute vs chronic disease) and with the clinical outcome status (COS) in sarcoidosis was also investigated.MethodsA total of 159 biopsy positive sarcoidosis patients participated in this study. The average age of the participants was 49.67, majority was female (67.3%) and majority had only pulmonary form of sarcoidosis (71.7%). KSQ - new disease-specific health status instrument, was compared with 5 other already existing instruments already used and validated in sarcoidosis (Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire- SGRQ, Daily Activity List -DAL, Fatigue Assessment Scale- FAS, Medical Research Council dyspnea scale-MRC, Borg Dyspnea Scale and 15D as general questionnaire.ResultsKSQ has significant correlation with other quality of life questionnaires already used in sarcoidosis. Translated version of KSQ shows significant internal reliability, similar to the original KSQ. Serbian version of KSQ has significant correlation with different clinical course of sarcoidosis and with COS as well. The translated version of KSQ is reliable sarcoidosis specific instrument for assessing health status in these patients.

Events of very high concentrations of 7Be cosmogenic radionuclide have been recorded at low-elevation surface stations in the subpolar regions of Europe during the cold season. With an aim to investigate the mechanisms responsible for those peak 7Be events, and in particular to verify if they are associated with the fast descent of stratospheric air masses occurring during sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) events, we analyze 7Be observations at six sampling sites in Fennoscandia during January–March 2003 when very high 7Be concentrations were observed and the Arctic vortex was relatively unstable as a consequence of several SSW events. We use the GEOS-Chem chemistry and transport model driven by the MERRA-2 meteorological reanalysis to simulate tropospheric 7Be over northern Europe. We show that the model reasonably reproduces the temporal evolution of surface 7Be concentrations observed at the six sampling sites. Our analysis of model simulations, surface 7Be observations, atmospheric soundings of ozone and temperature and surface ozone measurements indicates that the 7Be peak observed in late February 2003 (between 20 and 28 February 2003) at the six sampling sites in Fennoscandia was associated with downward transport of stratospheric vortex air that originated during an SSW that occurred a few days earlier (between 18 and 21 February 2003).

This paper is devoted to the memory of Professor Ljubomir Nedeljkovic (1933-2020), Head of the Department of Iron and Steel Metallurgy University of Belgrade, Serbia. Assessment of the melt quality is one of the most important casting process parameters, which allowed sound production of intricated cast parts. At the present time, various devices have been applied at foundry floors to control melt quality. Thermal analysis is one of them, widely used for melt quality control in ferrous and non-ferrous casting plants. During solidification, metal and alloys released latent heat, which magnitude is dependent on the type of phases that form during the solidification process. Plotting temperature versus time data during solidification provides useful information related to the actual solidification process. The applied technique is called thermal analysis, whereas the cooling curve is the name of such a plot. The main aim of this paper is to give a short overview of the present thermal analysis application in various foundries and to indicate the future potential use of this technique.

Abstract We present a case report of a 74‐year‐old male patient with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator who suffered an inappropriate defibrillation shock while bathing in the tub. Insight in the ICD stored electrogram episodes revealed electromagnetic interferences, with a typical 50 Hz electrical artifact mimicking fast ventricular tachycardia as a device misinterpreted. After this event, the maintenance workers investigated the electrical installation in the bathroom and revealed that there was voltage leaking between electrical installation and metal pipes. After the repair was completed without any additional programming, the patient has had no subsequent shocks.

BackgroundImmune dysregulation and associated inefficient anti-viral immunity during Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) can cause tissue and organ damage which shares many similarities with pathogenetic processes in systemic autoimmune diseases. In this study, we investigate wide range autoimmune and immunoserological markers in hospitalized patients with COVID-19.MethodsStudy included 51 patients with confirmed Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 infection and hospitalized due to COVID-19 pneumonia. Wide spectrum autoantibodies associated with different autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases were analyzed and correlated with clinical and laboratory features and pneumonia severity.ResultsAntinuclear antibodies (ANA) positivity was found in 19.6%, anti-cardiolipin IgG antibodies (aCL IgG) in 15.7%, and anti-cardiolipin IgM antibodies (aCL IgM) in 7.8% of patients. Positive atypical x anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (xANCA) were detected in 10.0% (all negative for Proteinase 3 and Myeloperoxidase) and rheumatoid factor was found in 8.2% of patients. None of tested autoantibodies were associated with disease or pneumonia severity, except for aCL IgG being significantly associated with higher pneumonia severity index (p = 0.036). Patients with reduced total serum IgG were more likely to require non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) (p < 0.0001). Serum concentrations of IgG (p = 0.003) and IgA (p = 0.032) were significantly lower in this group of patients. Higher total serum IgA (p = 0.009) was associated with mortality, with no difference in serum IgG (p = 0.115) or IgM (p = 0.175). Lethal outcome was associated with lower complement C4 (p = 0.013), while there was no difference in complement C3 concentration (p = 0.135).ConclusionIncreased autoimmune responses are present in moderate and severe COVID-19. Severe pneumonia is associated with the presence of aCL IgG, suggesting their role in disease pathogenesis. Evaluation of serum immunoglobulins and complement concentration could help assess the risk of non-invasive mechanical ventilation NIMV and poor outcome.

Three subtypes of achalasia have been defined using esophageal manometry. Several studies have reported that symptoms are experienced differently among men and women, regardless of subtype. All subtypes could have some impact on the appearance of respiratory symptoms and lung complications due to compression of the trachea or aspiration of undigested food. The aim of this research was to analyze the differences in respiratory symptoms and radiographic presentation of lung pathology depending on the diameter and achalasia types. One or more respiratory symptoms were reported in 48% of 114 patients, and all of them had two or more gastrointestinal symptoms. The symptom score (SS) is statistically significant for the prediction of subtype 1 (area under the curve = 0.318; p < 0.001, cut-off score of 6.5 had 95.2% sensitivity) and subtype 2 (area under the curve = 0.626; p = 0.020, cut-off score of 7.5 had 93.1% sensitivity). The most common type was subtype 2 (50.8%), and although only 14 patients had subtype 3, they had the largest esophageal diameter (mean 5.8 cm). The difference in esophageal diameter was significant between subtype 1 and 3 (p = 0.011), subtype 2 and subtype 3 (p = 0.011). Nine patients (6%) had mega-esophagus (four patients in type 1, three in type 2 and two in type 3). More than half of all patients (51.7%) had at least one parenchymal lung change on CT scan. Recurrent micro-aspirations led to changes in the structure of the airways and lung parenchyma such as ground glass (GGO) and nodular changes (12%) and fibrosis (14.5%), and they had higher esophageal diameters (p < 0.001). Patients with chronic lung CT changes had significantly higher esophageal diameter than with acute changes (p < 0.001). Awareness of the association of achalasia and lung disorders is important in early diagnosis and treatment. More than half (57.5%) of patients with achalasia had some clinical and/or structural pulmonary abnormalities. All three subtypes had similar respiratory symptoms, meaning they cannot be used to predict the subtype of achalasia; on the contrary, SS can predict the first two subtypes. A higher diameter of the esophagus is associated with chronic structural lung changes. Although unexpected, the pathological radiological findings and diameter were significantly different in subtype 3 patients, but those parameters cannot lead us to a specified subtype.

The paper presents the research aimed at setting up and developing a software system for the printing process parameters identification based on modern computer and software systems, algorithmic principles, principles of expert systems construction and advanced learning. Thus, the possibilities of application of contemporary software tools were investigated, which facilitates the process and forms the program structure of the model that uses programming languages based on the expert systems construction principles and tools for the development of system model based on the principles of modern learning. For complex model development, concepts of process knowledge bases with influential process parameters of printing technique have been developed through modelling and construction based on the logic of expert systems with the presentation, use and involvement of experts knowledge in decision making with the evaluation of the impact of individual parameters. In addition to this approach, a module was developed using modern software tools based on an algorithmic principle and a module for identifying printing process parameters using modern platforms based on advanced learning. Sophisticated software model has been made through the research and developed with databases of process parameter identification systems based on modern software tools. This tool enables a significant expedition of the solution resolving, thus improving the graphical production process and the processes of acquiring and expanding knowledge. The model is based on integrative modules: a printing process parameters identification system based on algorithmic program structure systems, a printing process parameters identification system based on expert system building principles, and a printing process parameter identification system based on modern learning systems.

Strontium (Sr) and sodium (Na) are the most used modifiers in the aluminum casting industry. Both lose their concentration (fade) during holding in the melting furnace. Three types of chemical reactions in the melt may cause modifier fading: vaporizing, oxidizing, or reacting with some other elements from the melt. Due to Na and Sr’s very low vapor pressure, their vaporization from the aluminum melt was excluded as a reason for the modifiers’ fading. Oxidation looks like the major chemical reaction that causes the fading of Na and Sr from an aluminum melt. The present paper aimed to quantify the fading of Na and Sr in an Al–Si–Cu–Mg alloy. The loss of modifiers (Na and Sr) during melt holding in a furnace can be analytically quantified using equations taken from the literature. The calculated surface reaction rate constant (ks) can estimate the modifier’s loss during melt holding in industrial and laboratory furnaces.

Comprehensive understanding of the melt quality is of vital importance for foundry man. The effect of each particular element need to be properly analysed. Therefore, the aim of this paper was to analyse the impact of various content of zirconium on the solidification path and structural characteristics (SDAS, grain size, porosity) of as cast commercial AlSi10MgCu alloys. It has been found that addition of zirconium up to 0.24 wt.% reduce significantly the grains size (from 3.5 mm to 1.2 mm), SDAS (from 57.3 µm to 50.4 µm) and porosity (from 19% to 5%), leading to production of sound cast parts.

Background/Purpose: Rapid hemostasis, an essential prerequisite of good surgical practice during surgical bleeding, including soft tissue open surgery, often requires adjunctive treatment. We evaluated the safety and hemostatic effectiveness of a human plasma-derived fibrin sealant (FS Grifols) in soft tissue open surgery. Methods: Patients with moderate soft tissue bleeding during open, urologic, gynecologic or general surgery were studied. The trial consisted of a preliminary phase (to familiarize investigators with the technique for FS Grifols application and the intraoperative procedures required by the clinical protocol) and a primary phase: in both phases, patients were randomized 1:1 to FS Grifols or Surgicel®. The primary efficacy endpoint, based on analysis of subjects in the primary phase of the study, was to evaluate whether FS Grifols was non-inferior to Surgicel® in achieving hemostasis, based on the proportion of subjects in both treatment groups who achieved hemostasis at the target bleeding site (TBS) by 4 min (T4) following the start of treatment application. Safety assessments included adverse events (AEs), vital signs, physical assessments, common clinical laboratory tests, viral markers, and immunogenicity. Results: A total of 224 subjects were randomized (primary phase): FS Grifols (N = 116), Surgicel® (N = 108). The 95% CI at T4 for the ratio of the proportion of patients achieving hemostasis in the two treatment groups was 1.064 (0.934, 1.213), indicating non-inferiority for FS Grifols vs. Surgicel®. The rate of hemostasis at the TBS by T4 in both phases of the study was higher in the FS Grifols treatment group (preliminary phase: 90.2%; primary phase: 82.8%) than in the Surgicel® treatment group (preliminary phase: 78.8%; primary phase: 77.8%). Overall, reported AEs were as expected in surgical patients and were similar between the two treatment groups. Conclusions: This study shows the non-inferiority in time to hemostasis of FS Grifols vs. Surgicel as an adjunct to hemostasis in patients undergoing soft tissue open surgery, and a similar rate of AEs.

Acetylshikonin (AcSh), as a red colored pigment found in roots of the plants from family Boraginaceae, showed excellent cytotoxic activity. Due to its hydrophobic nature, and thus poor bioavailability, the aim of this study was to prepare acetylshikonin/β-cyclodextrin (AcSh/β-CD) inclusion complex by using coprecipitation method, characterize obtained system by using UV/VIS, IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy, and determine cytotoxic activity. Phase solubility test indicated formation of AL-type binary system (substrate/ligand ratio was 1:1 M/M), with stability constant Ks of 306.01 M−1. Formation of noncovalent bonds between inner layer of the hole of β-CD and AcSh was observed using spectroscopic methods. Notable changes in chemical shifts of two protons (−0.020 ppm) from naphthoquinone moiety (C6-H and C7-H), as well as protons from hydroxyl groups (−0.013 and −0.009, respectively) attached to C5 and C8 carbons from naphthoquinone part indicate that the molecule of AcSh enters the β-CD cavity from the aromatic side. Cytotoxic activity against HCT-116 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines was measured by MTT test and clonogenic assay. Mechanisms of action of free AcSh and inclusion complex were assessed by flow cytometry. In comparison to free AcSh, AcSh/β-CD showed stronger short-term effect on HCT-116 cells and superior long-term effect on both cell lines. Inclusion complex induced more pronounced cell cycle arrest and autophagy inhibition, and induced increase in accumulation of intracellular ROS more effectively than free AcSh. In conclusion, AcSh/β-CD binary system showed better performances regarding cytotoxic activity against tested tumor cell lines. Keywords: Acetylshikonin, β-Cyclodextrin, Inclusion complex, Cytotoxicity

Abstract Background We have developed an approach for modelling the health impact of introducing new smoke-free tobacco products. We wished to compare its estimates with those of alternative approaches, when applied to snus, used in Sweden for many years. Methods Modelling was restricted to men aged 30–79 years for 1980–2009 and to four smoking-related diseases. Mortality data were extracted for Sweden and other European countries. Published data provided Swedish prevalence estimates for combinations of never/former/current smoking and snus use, and smoking prevalence estimates for other European countries. Approach 1 compares mortality in Sweden and in other countries with a smoking prevalence similar to Sweden’s prevalence of combined smoking/snus use. Approaches 2 and 3 compare mortality in Sweden with hypothetical mortality had snus users smoked. Approach 3 uses our health impact model, individuals starting with the tobacco prevalence of Sweden in 1980. Tobacco histories during 30-year follow-up were then estimated using transition probabilities, with risk derived using a negative exponential model. Approach 2 uses annual tobacco prevalence estimates coupled with estimates of relative risk of current and former smokers regardless of history. The main applications of Approaches 2 and 3 assume that only smoking affects mortality, though sensitivity analyses using Approach 3 allow for risk to vary in snus users and dual users. Results Using Approach 2, estimated mortality increases in Sweden in 1980–2009 had snus not been introduced were: lung cancer 8786; COPD 1781; IHD 10,409; stroke 1720. The main Approach 3 estimates were similar (7931, 1969; 12,501; 1901). They decreased as risk in snus users and dual users increased. Approach 1 estimates differed wildly (77,762, 32,538; 77,438; 76,946), remaining very different following correction for differences between Sweden and the comparison countries in non-smoking-related disease mortality. Conclusions Approach 1 is unreliable, accounting inadequately for non-tobacco factors affecting mortality. Approaches 2 and 3 provide reasonably similar approximate estimates of the mortality increase had snus not been available, but have differing advantages and disadvantages. Only Approach 3 considers tobacco history, but develops histories using tobacco transition probabilities, which is possibly less reliable than using estimated tobacco prevalences at each follow-up year.

The present review addresses the latest findings and limitations in catalytic pyrolysis for the processing of plastic waste into valuable fuels. Compared to thermal degradation of plastics, catalytic pyrolysis provides better results in regards to the quality of the obtained liquid hydrocarbon fuel. Different types of catalysts can be used in order to improve the thermal degradation of plastics. Some of the most used catalysts are different types of zeolites (HUSY, HZSM-5, Hβ), Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC), silica-alumina catalysts, or natural clays. There is a need to find affordable and effective catalysts in the aim of achieving commercialization of catalytic pyrolysis of plastic waste. Therefore, this study summarizes and presents the most significant results found in the literature in regards to catalytic pyrolysis. This paper also investigates the symmetry effects of molecules on the pyrolysis process.

In 2019 the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) lowered the target values for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) from p < 0.0001) and on combination therapy with ezetimibe (51% vs. 17%, p < 0.0001) than in group A, which resulted in 53% of patients reaching the LDL-C target of 50% of the LDL-C target

It is well known that abiotic components can affect biosynthetic pathways in the production of certain volatile compounds. The aim of this study was to compare the chemical composition of essential oils obtained from Orlaya grandiflora (L.) Hoffm. collected from two localities in Serbia (continental climate, OG1) and Montenegro (Mediterranean climate, OG2) and to assess their antitumor potential on the human colon cancer HCT-116 and breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cell lines. EOs obtained by hydrodistillation were analyzed using GC-MS and GC-FID methods. The results indicate considerable differences in the chemical compositions of the two samples. Although in both samples the main class of volatiles observed was sesquiterpenes (47.5% for OG1 and 70.1% for OG2), the OG1 sample was characterized by a high amount of monoterpene hydrocarbons (29.3%), and sesquiterpene germacrene D (29.5%) as the most abundant compound. On the other hand, the OG2 sample contained a high quantity of oxygenated sesquiterpenes (20.6%), and β-elemene (22.7%) was the major constituent. The possible antitumor mechanisms of these EOs in the HCT-116 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines were examined by means of cell viability, apoptosis, redox potential, and migratory capacity. The antiviability potential appeared to be dose dependent, since the results showed that both EOs decreased the viability of the tested cells. Stronger antitumor effects were shown in MDA-MB-231 cells after short-term treatment, especially at the highest applied concentration, where the percentage of viability was reduced by over 40%. All tested concentrations of EOs exhibited proapoptotic activity and elevated activity of caspase-3 in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The results also showed decreased concentrations of superoxide anion radical in the treated cells, which indicates their significant antioxidative role. Long-term treatments showed mild recovery effects on cell viability in both cell lines, probably caused by the balancing of redox homeostasis. Elevated levels of nitrites indicate high levels of nitric oxide (NO) production and suggest its higher bioavailability due to the antioxidative environment. The tested EOs also induced a drop in migratory capacity, especially after short-time treatments. Taken together, these results suggest considerable antitumor activity of both EOs, which could have potential therapeutic applications.

Many adolescents worldwide have the problem of meeting recommended nightly sleep hours. The causes of sleep disturbance are multifactorial, but interest in food’s effect on sleep has dramatically increased lately. In this study, we investigated the association between regular energy drink (ED) intake (weekly or more frequent) and sufficient sleep (SS) (≥8 h) in adolescents. Additional objectives were to examine the relationship between health-related behaviors and SS, stratified by gender. A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted during the 2019/2020 school year from 12 schools in Belgrade. There were 1287 students aged 15 to 19 who participated (37.4% male). We used a modified version of the food frequency questionnaire adapted for Serbian adolescents. Logistic regression revealed that regular ED consumption was an independent risk factor negatively related to SS in both sexes. Additionally, daily vegetable and water intake (≥2 L) showed a positive correlation with SS in boys, while in girls, the odds of realizing SS decreased with statements of sedative use. In conclusion, we show that ED intake is negatively associated with SS in both sexes; daily vegetable and water intake (≥2 L) may raise the odds of SS in boys, while sedative use may decrease the chances of SS in girls.

The impact of small addition of zirconium in hypoeutectic commercial AlSi10MgCu alloys on their mechanical properties (hardness) in as cast and thermally treated conditions was investigated. Small addition of zirconium does not change significantly the as cast and heat-treated microstructure of investigated alloys except to reduce the SDAS and grain size of primary α-aluminium phases. Addition of zirconium up to 0.14 wt. percentage increases the hardness of investigated alloys in as cast conditions. The increase in the hardness of samples after various solid solution times can correlate very well with the formation of small needle like coherent Al3Zr particles.

Motivated by the One Health paradigm, we found the expected changes in temperature and UV radiation (UVR) to be a common trigger for enhancing the risk that viruses, vectors, and diseases pose to human and animal health. We compared data from the mosquito field collections and medical studies with regional climate model projections to examine the impact of climate change on the spreading of one malaria vector, the circulation of West Nile virus (WNV), and the incidence of melanoma. We analysed data obtained from ten selected years of standardised mosquito vector sampling with 219 unique location-year combinations, and 10 years of melanoma incidence. Trends in the observed data were compared to the climatic variables obtained by the coupled regional Eta Belgrade University and Princeton Ocean Model for the period 1961-2015 using the A1B scenario, and the expected changes up to 2030 were presented. Spreading and relative abundance of Anopheles hyrcanus was positively correlated with the trend of the mean annual temperature. We anticipated a nearly twofold increase in the number of invaded sites up to 2030. The frequency of WNV detections in Culex pipiens was significantly correlated to overwintering temperature averages and seasonal relative humidity at the sampling sites. Regression model projects a twofold increase in the incidence of WNV positive Cx. pipiens for a rise of 0.5°C in overwintering TOctober-April temperatures. The projected increase of 56% in the number of days with Tmax ≥ 30°C (Hot Days-HD) and UVR doses (up to 1.2%) corresponds to an increasing trend in melanoma incidence. Simulations of the Pannonian countries climate anticipate warmer and drier conditions with possible dominance of temperature and number of HD over other ecological factors. These signal the importance of monitoring the changes to the preparedness of mitigating the risk of vector-borne diseases and melanoma.