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The era of the current generation Nowadays, students are not fully able to internalize the values of Pancasila in their daily lives. Pancasila values in their daily lives, both in interactions with others and in safeguarding things that are valuable and important to themselves. with others and in maintaining things that are valuable and important for themselves and others. and others. As a result, they often take actions that are not should be in accordance with the rules. The researcher used a systematic literature study systematic literature study using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses). Reviews and Meta Analyses). Data collection was carried out from the results of research research results that have been published in the period 2015 to 2024 on the scale of accredited national journals and reputable international journals. reputable international journals. The results are as follows; Learners can recognize symbols of Pancasila and the Garuda Pancasila State Emblem, and tell the story of the relationship between the symbols of Pancasila and the precepts of Pancasila. the relationship between the symbols of Pancasila and the precepts in Pancasila.

One of the most reliable predictors of school effectiveness is student engagement, which is not only related to students’ current achievement but also long-term outcomes. Using linear regression and structural equation modeling procedures, the present study was aimed at examining the relationship between dropout risk, dimensions of student engagement, and family background. The survey study involved 3251 7th grade Hungarian students who completed the adapted Student Engagement Instrument and self-reported background questionnaire. According to the results, student performance is mainly related to parents’ educational attainment, but a moderate or weak correlation with behavioral, academic, and cognitive engagement is also detectable. While affective engagement shows a weak association with performance, it correlates with other engagement dimensions linked to achievement. This result suggests that support from parents, peers, and teachers may have an indirect effect on achievement; however, the present study could not confirm this hypothetical model. Based on our data, parental educational attainment and student engagement account for approximately 41 % of student performance which draws attention to the complexity of the relationship between student engagement and performance and highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to dropout and student engagement in this context.

Ester derivatives of experimental olefin-maleic anhydride copolymers synthesized at the University of Pannonia have been investigated by both classical and instrumental analytical methods that contribute to a deeper understanding of how that type of additives functions as compatibilizers for plastics and rubbers.Titration-based acid and saponification numbers have provided limited information about the chemical structure of the experimental copolymer compounds. A prompt, precise and low-cost method or combination of methods has been required to access to the ratio of the various derivatives not only straight after esterification but also for quality control during long-term storage considering the even stricter sustainability aspects either. Reproduction and scaling-up synthesises can be also followed by the combined measuring techniques of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and oscillatory rheometry. Structural changes occurred in the additives could be followed through monitoring their Ester Indices (EI) during the measurement, which can be connected also to the long-term properties. Experimental additives (AD) like AD-1 and AD-2 types with lower EI values of 21.5 % and 32.1 %, respectively, resulted in higher upper limits of the linear viscoelastic (LVE) range (15 % and 10 %). Conversely, the higher EI values of AD-3 and AD-4 led to significantly lower or even immeasurable upper limits of the LVE range. Additives with solid behaviour showed slight dependence on frequency above the crossover point that indicated strong connections disappearing.

Cultural heritage (CH) is heavily threatened by air pollution, especially by airborne particulate matter (PM), that acts on the surfaces of fine arts, causing artistic loss. Therefore, the monitoring of air quality assumes a central role for the preventive conservation of CH.In this study, magnetic and chemical biomonitoring of PM was applied at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, a contemporary and modern art museum in Venice, Italy. It is located in an aquatic context, where the PM sources are considerably different, with respect to the usual vehicular-dominated urban emissions.Lichen biomonitoring is a well-established technique for the assessment of air quality, especially where PM collecting devices cannot be operated for aesthetic and practical reasons.Samples of the lichen species Evernia prunastri were collected from a pristine area and exposed for three months (November 2022–February 2023) at increasing distances from the Grand Canal, planning an outdoor vs. indoor sampling design, for outlining the diffusion of airborne PM inside the museum.In combination with lichen exposure, the leaves of Pittosporum tobira hedges were sampled for determining their efficiency as bioaccumulators.The magnetic properties of lichens showed a moderate bioaccumulation of magnetite-like particles outdoors. Conversely, the magnetic properties of the indoor samples were like those of the unexposed ones, indicating a negligible accumulation of metallic particles indoors. Pittosporum tobira leaves mostly showed diamagnetic properties, resulting an ineffective species for preventing conservation purposes. Chemical analysis did not show any significant difference between unexposed, indoor and outdoor samples. A directional gradient of bioaccumulation was not evident, thus implying that the sources of metallic PM are distant or diffused, with respect to the site.The joint use of magnetic and chemical analyses was useful for evaluating the negligible impact of airborne particulate pollution arising from the Grand Canal towards the Halls of the Collection.

Under the era of circular economy, the deposit-refund system (DRS) for e.g. polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is thought to be a good choice to achieve a more structured plastic recycling. The present research has the aim to make a comprehensive description and a practical guideline in order to evaluate how collection and separation system influence the quality and efficiency of mechanical recycling of PET. The DRS has been symbolized by manually collected bottles with (BCL) and without (B) caps and labels. Samples have been given from the selective income (SI) and the sorting residue (SR) of a manual selective waste sorting plant and PET fraction of refuse derived fuel (RDF). Based on preliminary qualification results such as melt flow indices (MFI), PET bottles are worth selecting into the main colours like water clear, blue, and all the others together, referred to as PET-A, PET-B, and PET-D fractions of the sorting plant. The SR seemed to be a beneficial raw material for PET recycling as both mechanical and rheological properties were proper enough. PET separated from the Mechanical Biological Treatment (MBT) plant as RDF showed the worst processing and mechanical properties, but both can be improved with deeper precleaning. X-ray tomography (CT) scans have shown a correlation between the source of waste and the gas void structure which influence the macroscopic mechanical properties.

Primary: aldosteronism is a frequent cause of secondary hypertension. With access to specialized care, an increasing number of patients with aldosteronism are being identified. Primary aldosteronism is treatable by adrenal surgery if aldosterone excess originates from one of the two, and not from both, adrenals. Bilateral hyperplasia requires lifelong mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist treatment. Up till now, adrenal venous sampling (AVS) has been widely used to distinguish between one-sided and two-sided aldosterone overproduction and patient selection for surgery. AVS is an invasive technique, and the unsuccessful sampling of the right adrenal vein during AVS often prevents side comparison, making the AVS procedure useless. Molecular imaging using [131I]6ß-iodomethyl-19-norcholesterol with SPECT CT imaging (SPECT/CT) may be a potential alternative. Methods: In 42 consecutive patients with confirmed primary aldosteronism, molecular imaging has been performed. After dexamethasone suppression of the non-affected adrenal tissue, 37 MBq [131I]6ß-iodomethyl-19-norcholesterol was injected i.v., and SPECT/CT images were taken 7 days later. Based on the visual evaluation of the images by two nuclear medicine specialists, patients with one-sided tracer accumulation underwent adrenalectomy. To identify a SPECT/CT parameter that best characterizes the side difference, the maximum counts and the mean counts of spherical VOIs were analyzed. Results: Of the 42 patients, 24 had one-sided aldosterone overproduction by SPECT/CT. After surgical removal of the involved adrenal, all 24 patients with SPECT/CT-identified unilateral aldosteronism achieved biochemical cure, defined as a normalized potassium level combined with an aldosterone-to-renin ratio ≤ 30. To identify the best measurable parameter of SPECT/CT side difference, the mean counts and maximum counts of a series of spherical VOIs of different diameters were analyzed. The ratio of the mean counts of 3 cm spherical VOIs of the right and left adrenal regions (lateralization index) was the best discriminator; a ratio of ≥1.29 was characteristic of one-sided disease, without overlap between the one-sided and two-sided patient groups. Conclusions: [131I]6ß-iodomethyl-19-norcholesterol SPECT/CT with a count-based image interpretation and side-ratio calculation may be an equipollent non-invasive substitute for adrenal venous sampling in the lateralization of mineralocorticoid overproduction. It reliably identifies unilateral disease and facilitates patients’ selection for surgical intervention. If confirmed by others, this functional imaging may replace AVS when lateralization is required for management decisions in primary aldosteronism.

Polyphenols, fatty acids, and mineral composition were studied in eight Persian walnut (Juglans regia L.) samples: ‘Milotai 10’ (M10) and ‘Alsószentiváni 117’ (A117) Hungarian varieties derived from two Hungarian growing areas (Pálháza—P and Berzék—B), ‘Chernivets’ky 1’ from Ukraine, and ‘Chandler’ from the United States of America, Chile, and Brazil purchased on the Hungarian consumer market. The aim was to reveal which walnut variety is the most suitable for consumption from a nutritive point of view. In comparison, both Hungarian varieties grown in Hungarian climatic conditions had on average approximately 33% more polyphenols, approximately 22% more SFAs (saturated fatty acids), and approximately 27% more MUFAs (monounsaturated fatty acids). Regarding the minerals, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and sodium were present in higher concentrations in both Hungarian varieties. Among the Hungarian-bred varieties, M10 mainly reached a higher compounds content, but the effects of the fruit site conditions were not clearly detected. Other varieties contained mainly potassium, copper, and zinc, such as ‘Chandler’ harvested from Chile. ‘Chernivets’ky 1’, harvested from Ukraine, had outstanding cinnamic acid and linoleic acid contents compared to the other examined varieties. All ‘Chandler’ samples (mainly the American) contained 11% more PUFAs compared to the samples derived from Hungary.

Objective: This study aimed to determine if medial collateral ligament reconstruction (MCLR) alongside anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) preserves knee functionality better than isolated ACLR in combined ACL and MCL tears. Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, CENTRAL, and Web of Science were searched systematically on 31 March 2023. Studies reporting post-operative function after ACLR and ACLR + MCLR in combined injuries were included. Outcomes included International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, side-to-side difference (SSD), Lysholm, and Tegner scale values. Results: Out of 2362 papers, 8 studies met the criteria. The analysis found no significant difference in outcomes (MD = 3.63, 95% CI: [−5.05, 12.3] for IKDC; MD = −0.64, 95% CI: [−3.24, 1.96] for SSD at 0° extension; MD = −1.79, 95% CI: [−4.61, 1.04] for SSD at 30° extension; MD = −1.48, 95% CI: [−16.35, 13.39] for Lysholm scale; MD = −0.21, 95% CI: [−4.29, 3.87] for Tegner scale) between treatments. Conclusions: This meta-analysis found no significant difference in outcomes between ACLR and ACLR + MCLR, suggesting that adding MCLR does not provide additional benefits. Due to the heterogeneity and quality of the included studies, further high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the optimal treatment for combined severe MCL–ACL injuries.

Background: Since metabolic diseases and atherosclerotic vascular events are firmly associated, herein we investigate changes in central microcirculation and atherosclerosis-related body fat distribution in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. Methods: Resting brain perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging with Technetium-99m hexamethylpropylene amine oxime ([99mTc]Tc-HMPAO SPECT) was performed, and the breath-holding index (BHI) and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) were measured to characterise central microcirculation. Besides CT-based abdominal fat tissue segmentation, C-peptide level, glycaemic and anthropometric parameters were registered to search for correlations with cerebral blood flow and vasoreactivity. Results: Although no significant difference was found between the resting cerebral perfusion of the two patient cohorts, a greater blood flow increase was experienced in the obese after the breath-holding test than in the diabetics (p < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was encountered between resting and provocation-triggered brain perfusion and C-peptide levels (p < 0.005). BMI and cIMT were negatively correlated (rho = −0.27 and −0.23 for maximum and mean cIMT, respectively), while BMI and BHI showed a positive association (rho = 0.31 and rho = 0.29 for maximum and mean BHI, respectively), which could be explained by BMI-dependent changes in fat tissue distribution. cIMT demonstrated a disproportional relationship with increasing age, and higher cIMT values were observed for the men. Conclusions: Overall, C-peptide levels and circulatory parameters seem to be strong applicants to predict brain microvascular alterations and related cognitive decline in such patient populations.

In his unique position at the intersection of science and spirituality, Pierre Teilhard de Chardin is a Jesuit priest, paleontologist, and philosopher. As Teilhard de Chardin attempted to reconcile the seemingly absurd realms of faith and science, this article examines his life and views. In Teilhard de Chardin's philosophy, the "Omega Point" represents the highest point of complexity and consciousness in the universe. The framework is discussed in the context of his views on cosmic evolution, human consciousness, and the intricate interconnection between all life forms. The article attempts to provide an overview of the reception of Teilhard de Chardin's ideas within both religious and secular communities.

Objective This study aimed to investigate the associations between general health expectations and patient satisfaction with treatment for the two common spine surgery procedures diskectomy for lumbar disk herniation (LDH) and decompression for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).Design Register study with prospectively collected preoperative and 1-year postoperative data.Setting National outcome data from Swespine, the national Swedish spine register.Participants A total of 9929 patients, aged between 20 and 85 years, who were self-reported non-smokers, and were operated between 2007 and 2016 for one-level LSS without degenerative spondylolisthesis, or one-level LDH, were identified in the national Swedish spine register (Swespine). We used SF-36 items 11c and 11d to assess future health expectations and present health perceptions. Satisfaction with treatment was assessed using the Swespine satisfaction item.Interventions One-level diskectomy for LDH or one-level decompression for LSS.Primary outcome measures Satisfaction with treatment.Results For LSS, the year 1 satisfaction ratio among patients with negative future health expectations preoperatively was 60% (95% CI 58% to 63%), while it was 75% (95% CI 73% to 76%) for patients with positive future health expectations preoperatively. The corresponding numbers for LDH were 73% (95% CI 71% to 75%) and 84% (95% CI 83% to 85%), respectively.Conclusions Patients operated for the common lumbar spine diseases LSS or LDH, with negative future general health expectations, were significantly less satisfied with treatment than patients with positive expectations with regard to future general health. These findings are important for patients, and for the surgeons who counsel them, when surgery is a treatment option for LSS or LDH.

Objectives: Recognition of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is crucial in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We conducted a nationwide epidemiological study to evaluate T2DM-associated CKD in Hungary between 2016 and 2020.Methods: Annual incidence and prevalence rates of registered CKD amongst all pharmacologically treated T2DM patients were analyzed in different age-groups by the central database of the Hungarian Health Insurance Fund Management. Statistical methods included Poisson regression, Bonferroni test, Chi-square test.Results: We found 499,029 T2DM patients and 48,902 CKD patients in 2016, and 586,075 T2DM patients and 38,347 CKD patients in 2020. The majority of all prevalent T2DM and CKD patients were older (aged 60–69 years: 34.1% and 25.8%; ≥70 years: 36.1% and 64.4%, respectively). The annual incidence of T2DM and incidence rates of CKD in T2DM decreased in 2017–2020 (p < 0.001). The annual prevalence of T2DM increased (p < 0.01), the prevalence rates of CKD in T2DM were low and decreased from 9.8% to 6.5% in 2016–2020 (p < 0.001).Conclusion: Incidence and prevalence of T2DM-associated CKD decreased significantly in Hungary in 2016–2020. Lower prevalence rates of CKD may suggest under-recognition and/or under-reporting.

Our purpose was to report clinical features in bilateral white dot syndrome in a 47-year-old female patient who was tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2. A 47-year-old female visited our department with complaints of bilateral photophobia and blurred vision in both her eyes. She visited our department during the pandemic period after her PCR-proven SARS-CoV-2 positivity. Her symptoms were chills and fever with a temperature of 40.0°C, associated with fatigue, sweat, and complete loss of taste. Besides basic ophthalmological examinations, ocular diagnostic testing were made to differentiate between specific white dot syndromes with suggestive features of fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, and fundus autofluorescence. Laboratory tests were ordered, including immunserological and haematological ones. Eye examination revealed mild bilateral vitritis and white dots in the fundus of both eyes, including the macula explaining the blurred vision. Herpes simplex virus reactivation was proved, after the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Local corticosteroids were given according to the European Reference Network’s recommendations for patients with uveitis during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our report demonstrates that white dot syndrome with blurred vision could be associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, being potentially sight-threatening because of macular involvement. Ophthalmological examinations found posterior uveitis white dot syndrome, and this should call attention to the risk of acute 2019-CoV infection or occurred 2019-CoV infection. Immunodeficiency favours the occurrence of other viral infections, such as herpes virus infections. Everybody should be aware of the risk of 2019-CoV infection, especially professionals, social workers, and those who work or live with elder people and people with immunodeficiency.

Abstract Juncus species are valuable sources of phenanthrene compounds that have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Effusol and juncusol are the most investigated compounds reported to have antimicrobial and anticancer effects; however, to date, their effects on higher plants have not been investigated. In this study, we examined the effects of effusol and juncusol on the growth and other biochemical parameters of the dicot model plant Arabidopsis thaliana in a concentration-dependent manner with a focus on polyamine metabolism. Phenanthrene induced toxic effects on plant growth and development, while effusol and juncusol induced higher biomass and maintained antioxidant defence mechanisms associated with reduced polyamine degradation. Taken together, our results suggest that these compounds could be good candidates for new biopesticide or biostimulant plant growth regulators in the future.

Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disease characterized by significant permeability barrier damage. Regulation and maintenance of permeability and antimicrobial skin barriers are strongly connected. There is a lack of comprehensive studies of the expression of all 5 major antimicrobial peptide functional groups in atopic dermatitis. The aim of this study was to investigate the major antimicrobial peptide functional groups in lesional atopic dermatitis, non-lesional atopic dermatitis, and healthy control samples, using real-time quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. Lesional psoriatic skin was also examined as a diseased control. No differences in mRNA levels were detected between non-lesional atopic dermatitis and healthy control skin, and, at the protein level, the only change was the significantly decreased LL-37 in non-lesional atopic dermatitis. In lesional atopic dermatitis, several antimicrobial peptides were significantly altered at the mRNA level, while, at the protein level, all antimicrobial peptides were significantly upregulated or unchanged, except for LL-37, which decreased, compared with healthy controls. Antimicrobial peptides were similarly elevated in lesional atopic dermatitis and lesional psoriatic skin, with somewhat higher expression in lesional psoriatic skin, except for LL-37. In conclusion, LL-37 was the only antimicrobial peptide that was impaired in both non-lesional and lesional atopic dermatitis, highlighting its potential pathogenetic or exacerbating role in the initial stages of the disease.

In order to make ecotoxicological studies using bird embryos simpler and more cost effective, kinetic imaging, already proven in human medicine, was tested. In the study, a total of 8 still-living embryos were examined non-invasively with low-intensity (50 keV) X-rays. During the measurement, we tried to assess how the embryos react if they are not stored at the temperature of 38 °C required for hatching for 1 hour.

Here we investigate the suitability of Robinia pseudoacacia L. (black locust) leaflets as a novel biomonitor of airborne microplastics (MPs) including tyre wear particles (TWPs). Leaflets were collected from rural roadside locations (ROs, n = 5) and urban parks (UPs, n = 5) in Siena, Italy. MPs were removed by washing, identified by stereomicroscope, and analysed for polymer type by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Daily MP deposition was estimated from leaf area. The mass magnetic susceptibility and the bioaccumulation of traffic-related potentially toxic elements (PTEs) were also analysed. The total number of MPs at ROs was significantly higher at 2962, dominated by TWPs, compared with 193 in UPs, where TWPs were not found. In contrast, total microfibres were significantly higher in UPs compared with ROs (185 vs. 86). Daily MP deposition was estimated to range from 4.2 to 5.1 MPs/m2/d across UPs and 29.9–457.6 MPs/m2/d across ROs. The polymer types at ROs were dominated by rubber (80%) from TWPs, followed by 15% polyamide (PA) and 5% polysulfone (PES), while in UPs the proportion of PES (44%) was higher than PA (22%) and polyacrylonitrile (11%). The mean mass magnetic susceptibility, a proxy of the bioaccumulation of traffic-related metallic particles, was higher at ROs (0.62 ± 0.01 10–8 m3/kg) than at UPs (–0.50 ± 0.03 10–8 m3/kg). The content of PTEs was similar across sites, except for significantly higher concentrations of Sb, a tracer of vehicle brake wear, at ROs (0.308 ± 0.008 µg/g) compared with UPs (0.054 ± 0.006 µg/g). Our results suggest that the waxy leaflets and easy determination of surface area make Robinia an effective biomonitor for airborne MPs including TWPs.

Chokeberry pomace is a potential source of natural colourants, antimicrobial agents, and anti-senescence compounds due to its high polyphenols content. Therefore, this study assessed the efficiency of green solvents (50% ethanol, 50% glycerol, and 100% distilled water, all acidified with 1% citric acid or 1% formic acid) for anthocyanin and total phenolic content (TPC) extraction from lyophilised chokeberry pomace. Extraction was performed in a water bath at 40, 50, and 60 °C for 60 and 120 min, followed by ultrasonic treatment for 15 and 30 min. Based on the results, 50% ethanol + 1% citric acid yielded significantly higher total anthocyanin content in the case of both spectrometric and HPLC measurements (1783 ± 153 mg CGE/100 g DW and 879.5 mg/100 g DW) at 50 °C for 60 min. Citric acids seem more effective compared to formic acid. The highest values of TPC were obtained with 50% glycerol + 1% formic acid at 50 °C for 60 min (12,309 ± 759 mg GAE/100 g DW). This study provides evidence that a substantial quantity of polyphenols, which can potentially be used as a natural food additive, can be efficiently extracted with 50% ethanol + 1% citric acid or 50% glycerol at 50 °C for 60 min from chokeberry pomace.

Objectives: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) implies increased comorbidity burden, disability, and mortality, becoming a significant public health problem worldwide, however, prevalence data are lacking in Hungary.Methods: We determined CKD prevalence, stage distribution, comorbidities using estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), albuminuria, and international disease codes in a cohort of healthcare utilizing residents within the catchment area of the University of Pécs, in the County Baranya, Hungary, between 2011 and 2019 by database analysis. The number of laboratory-confirmed and diagnosis-coded CKD patients were compared.Results: Of the total 296,781 subjects of the region, 31.3% had eGFR tests and 6.4% had albuminuria measurements, of whom we identified 13,596 CKD patients (14.0%) based on laboratory thresholds. Distribution by eGFR was presented (G3a: 70%, G3b: 22%, G4: 6%, G5: 2%). Amongst all CKD patients 70.2% had hypertension, 41.5% diabetes, 20.5% heart failure, 9.4% myocardial infarction, 10.5% stroke. Only 28.6% of laboratory-confirmed cases were diagnosis-coded for CKD in 2011–2019.Conclusion: CKD prevalence was 14.0% in a Hungarian subpopulation of healthcare-utilizing subjects in 2011–2019, and substantial under-reporting of CKD was also found.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technique for high-resolution, cross-sectional tissue imaging of the eye. During the past two and a half decades, OCT has become an essential tool in ophthalmology. It is a painless method for examining details of ocular structures in vivo with high resolution that has revolutionized patient care following and treating scleritis patients. Methods: Twenty-four patients diagnosed with scleritis were selected for this study. All of the patients went through basic ophthalmological examinations, such as visual acuity testing (VA), intraocular pressure measurement (IOP), slit lamp examination, ophthalmoscopic examination, and OCT. OCT examinations were taken by SD-OCT Spectralis OCT system (Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany). Results: Twenty-seven eyes of 24 patients (7 males and 17 females) were included in this study, who were diagnosed with scleritis. OCT examinations showed epiretinal membrane (ERM) in three patients (12%), cystoid macular edema (CME) (three cases, 12%), diffuse macular edema (DME) (one case, 4%), and serous retinal detachment (SRD) (one case, 4%). Conclusions: OCT proved to be a valuable, non-invasive method for detecting macular pathology in patients with scleritis. Despite the best treatment regimen applied, macular involvement resulting in reduced visual acuity (VA) can develop, which we could detect with OCT since macular edema (ME) is the leading cause of decreased vision due to the damaged outer blood–retina barrier (BRB) in inflammation. OCT investigation is a highly important method for early detection of ocular complications in scleritis in order to prevent blindness.

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is accompanied by inflammation and fibrosis to variable extent. The biomarkers of fibrosis were measured in patients with different forms of AF and cardiac status. Herein, we assessed the associations of the baseline concentrations of different biomarkers with the long-term success of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients with a structurally normal heart. Furthermore, we compared biomarker levels before and 3 years after ablation to gain further insights into the AF mechanism. Methods: Patients, undergoing PVI for paroxysmal/persistent AF were enrolled prospectively. Blood samples were obtained 24 hours before and 3 years after ablation. Serum cancer antigen 125 (CA-125), plasma Caspase-3, Galectin-3 and Cathepsin L concentrations were measured. Follow-up visits every 6 months included 12-lead electrocardiogram, 24-hour Holter, trans-telephonic monitoring as well as transthoracic echocardiography after ablation. Biomarker levels, left ventricular ejection fraction and left atrial (LA) diameters at baseline and at the 3-year follow-up were compared in patients with versus without AF recurrence. Results: A total of 63 patients were enrolled (23 women; age 61.4 (± 8.8) years). The acute isolation of all pulmonary veins was achieved in all patients. During a mean follow-up of 36.3 ± 6.3 months, AF recurrence was demonstrated in 26 (41.3%) patients. No significant differences were demonstrated in the levels of CA-125, Galectin-3, Caspase-3 and Cathepsin L pre- and post-ablation in patients with versus without AF recurrence. A significant decrease was detected in the concentrations of Caspase-3, Galectin-3 and Cathepsin L during follow-up with no difference in patients with versus without AF recurrence. A positive correlation was found between Caspase-3 levels and LA diameters in the AF recurrence group both before (r = 0.477; p = 0.018) and after the procedure (r = 0.533; p = 0.019). Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that the levels of CA-125, Caspase-3, Cathepsin L and Galectin-3 are not associated with AF recurrence after PVI in patients with a structurally normal heart and mainly paroxysmal AF. Except for CA-125, all the other biomarkers demonstrated a significant decrease during a 3-year follow-up post-ablation. Furthermore, Caspase-3 levels demonstrated a positive correlation with LA dimensions in patients with AF recurrence.

The majority of potentially preventable mortality in trauma patients is related to bleeding; therefore, early recognition and effective treatment of hemorrhagic shock impose a cardinal challenge for trauma teams worldwide. The reduction in mesenteric perfusion (MP) is among the first compensatory responses to blood loss; however, there is no adequate tool for splanchnic hemodynamic monitoring in emergency patient care. In this narrative review, (i) methods based on flowmetry, CT imaging, video microscopy (VM), measurement of laboratory markers, spectroscopy, and tissue capnometry were critically analyzed with respect to their accessibility, and applicability, sensitivity, and specificity. (ii) Then, we demonstrated that derangement of MP is a promising diagnostic indicator of blood loss. (iii) Finally, we discussed a new diagnostic method for the evaluation of hemorrhage based on exhaled methane (CH4) measurement. Conclusions: Monitoring the MP is a feasible option for the evaluation of blood loss. There are a wide range of experimentally used methodologies; however, due to their practical limitations, only a fraction of them could be integrated into routine emergency trauma care. According to our comprehensive review, breath analysis, including exhaled CH4 measurement, would provide the possibility for continuous, non-invasive monitoring of blood loss.

Mitochondria are targets of cold ischemia-reperfusion (IR), the major cause of cell damage during static cold preservation of liver allografts. The bioactivity of methane (CH4) has recently been recognized in various hypoxic and IR conditions as having influence on many aspects of mitochondrial biology. We therefore hypothesized that cold storage of liver grafts in CH4-enriched preservation solution can provide an increased defence against organ dysfunction in a preclinical rat model of liver transplantation. Livers were preserved for 24 h in cold histidine–tryptophan–ketoglutarate (HTK) or CH4-enriched HTK solution (HTK-CH4) (n = 24 each); then, viability parameters were monitored for 60 min during normothermic isolated reperfusion and perfusate and liver tissue were collected. The oxidative phosphorylation capacity and extramitochondrial Ca2+ movement were measured by high resolution respirometry. Oxygen and glucose consumption increased significantly while hepatocellular damage was decreased in the HTK-CH4 grafts compared to the HTK group. Mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation capacity was more preserved (128.8 ± 31.5 pmol/s/mL vs 201.3 ± 54.8 pmol/s/mL) and a significantly higher Ca2+ flux was detected in HTK-CH4 storage (2.9 ± 0.1 mV/s) compared to HTK (2.3 ± 0.09 mV/s). These results demonstrate the direct effect of CH4 on hepatic mitochondrial function and extramitochondrial Ca2+ fluxes, which may have contributed to improved graft functions and a preserved histomorphology after cold IR.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a Th1/17-driven inflammatory skin disease of the apocrine gland-rich (AGR) skin regions, where keratinocytes seem to be the crucial drivers of the initial pathogenic steps. However, the possible role of permeability barrier alteration in activating keratinocytes during HS development has not been clarified. We compared the major permeability barrier elements of non-lesional HS (HS-NL; n = 10) and lesional HS (HS-L; n = 10) skin with healthy AGR regions (n = 10) via RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry. Stratum corneum components related to cornified envelope formation, corneocyte desquamation and (corneo)desmosome organization were analyzed along with tight junction molecules and barrier alarmins. The permeability barrier function was also investigated with transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements (n = 16). Junction structures were also visualized using confocal microscopy. At the gene level, none of the investigated molecules were significantly altered in HS-NL skin, while 11 molecules changed significantly in HS-L skin versus control. At the protein level, the investigated molecules were similarly expressed in HS-NL and AGR skin. In HS-L skin, only slight changes were detected; however, differences did not show a unidirectional alteration, as KRT1 and KLK5 were detected in decreased levels, and KLK7, KRT6 and DSG1 in increased levels. No significant differences in TEWL or the expression of junction structures were assessed. Our findings suggest that the permeability barrier is not significantly damaged in HS skin and permeability barrier alterations are not the driver factors of keratinocyte activation in this disease.

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is consumed mainly in its processed form. Therefore, the investigation of the physicochemical properties of its berries is a current task in the aspect of food processing. The aim of this study was to determine the physicochemical parameters (soluble solid content, total titratable acidity, sugar/acid ratio), color characteristics (L*, a*, b*) and fatty acid profile of five varieties (‘Askola’, ‘Clara’, ‘Habego’, ‘Leikora’, ‘Mara’) and one Hungarian candidate, R-01, to establish a basis for experiments on the processability of the whole berries (e.g., drying). The weight of the berry of ‘Leikora’ (0.64 g) was significantly higher than the other investigated fruits. The differences between the values of soluble solid content (6.3–10.84 °Brix) and titratable acid (1.4–3.7%) content of berries were significant. ‘Mara’ had the highest sugar/acid ratio. Regarding the fatty acid profile, the amount of unsaturated fatty acids was measured between 72.6–83.4%, including polyunsaturated fatty acids, which were between 32.3–58.1%. The seeds of the tested samples contained high concentrations of linoleic acid (17.0–33.2%) and linolenic acid (15.3–24.9%), mainly in the case of the ‘Mara’, ‘Clara’ and ‘Askola’ varieties. Candidate R-01 could be used as a raw material for functional foods due to its significant content of palmitoleic acid and a favourable omega-6/omega-3 ratio.

Purpose: To report a case of vitreous hemorrhage as the presenting sign of retinal cavernous hemangioma (RCH) in a newborn. Observations: A five-week-old full-term male with a history of seizures and birth trauma underwent ophthalmology screening. Initial eye examination revealed vitreous hemorrhage. Subsequent examination under anesthesia with multi-modal imaging revealed vitreous hemorrhage and an intra-retinal mass with numerous sac-like aneurysmal dilatations, consistent with RCH. Conclusions and importance: Vitreous hemorrhage in a neonate is an atypical presentation of RCH. Clinicians should be aware that birth trauma may lead to vitreous hemorrhage from RCH. This is the first description of RCH, a rare retinal vascular tumor, in a newborn.

Despite their clinical effectiveness, a growing body of evidence has shown that many classes of antibiotics lead to mitochondrial dysfunction. Ceftriaxone and Rifaximin are first choice perioperative antibiotics in gastrointestinal surgery targeting fundamental processes of intestinal bacteria; however, may also have negative consequences for the host cells. In this study, we investigated their direct effect on mitochondrial functions in vitro, together with their impact on ileum, colon and liver tissue. Additionally, their impact on the gastrointestinal microbiome was studied in vivo, in a rat model. Rifaximin significantly impaired the oxidative phosphorylation capacity (OxPhos) and leak respiration in the ileal mucosa, in line with increased oxidative tissue damage and histological changes following treatment. Ceftriaxone prophylaxis led to similar changes in the colon mucosa. The composition and diversity of bacterial communities differed extensively in response to antibiotic pre-treatment. However, the relative abundances of the toxin producing species were not increased. We have confirmed the harmful effects of prophylactic doses of Rifaximin and Ceftriaxone on the intestinal mucosa and that these effects were related to the mitochondrial dysfunction. These experiments raise awareness of mitochondrial side effects of these antibiotics that may be of clinical importance when evaluating their adverse effects on bowel mucosa.

Background: In obesity, the adipose tissue becomes a very significant endocrine organ producing different factors called adipokines, such as leptin, adiponectin and kisspeptin; however, no data are available about their actions on uterine contraction in obese pregnant rats. Our aim was to study the impact of obesity on pregnant uterine contraction in a rat model. Methods: Obesity was induced by the consumption of a high fat high sucrose diet (HFHSD) for 9 weeks, including pregnancy. Glucose tolerance, sex hormone, cytokine and adipokine levels were measured. Uterine contractions and cervical resistance, as well as their responses to adipokines, were tested along with the expressions of their uterine receptors. Results: HFHSD increased body weight, and altered glucose tolerance and fat composition. The uterine leptin and kisspeptin pathway affect increased. The levels of proinflammatory cytokines were reduced, while the plasma level of progesterone was increased, resulting in weaker uterine contractions, and improving the uterine relaxing effects of adipokines. HFHSD reduced cervical resistance, but the core effect of adipokines is difficult to determine. Conclusions: Obesity in pregnant rats reduces uterine contractility and cytokine-induced inflammatory processes, and therefore obese pregnant rat methods are partially applicable for modelling human processes.