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Background: The ongoing horrors of the war in Ukraine have led to enormous consequences: loss of life, severe injuries, and mass movements of civilians. Exposure to war, living in conflict zones, and forced displacement increase the risk of experiencing a broad spectrum of direct and indirect burdens towards physical and mental health, in particular among children. Objective: This letter to the editor aims to provide multiple clinical and 'mental health and psychosocial support' (MHPSS) systems' perspectives by experts working in ongoing aid efforts to bridge and disseminate their current observations towards child and adolescent mental health services involved in the mental health response to the current war in Ukraine. Results and Discussion: The diverse perspectives from three mental health professionals involved in the MHPSS response highlight the different burdens and needs of children being confronted with situations of an existential nature. Children live through transformed social situations, deteriorated life conditions, general uncertainty, and encounter numerous losses. As such, war is the ultimate non-normative and existential stressor. The four perspectives highlight the need to: (1) adjust help toward the needs of the beneficiary, (2) understand help efforts as intersubjective human encounters and enable parents and caregivers in these encounters, (3) recognise losses and embrace finding ways to facilitate grief, and (4) continue to address these needs in a coordinated way that follows inter-agency guidelines. Conclusion: Better understanding the needs of refugee children underlines the importance of investing in their future by providing resources for humanitarian aid and psychosocial interventions during sustained emergencies. The perspectives presented in this letter emphasise that psychosocial care is deeply rooted in intersubjective help-encounters and, therefore, a professionalisation of interventions should co-occur with their humanisation and be adapted to subjective needs, varying sociocultural backgrounds, and the individuals themselves with the goal of reducing suffering and fostering well-being. The three expert humanitarian aid perspectives highlight the need to: adjust help toward the needs of the beneficiary, understand help efforts as intersubjective human encounters and enable parents and caregivers in these encounters, recognise losses and embrace finding ways to facilitate grief, and continue to address these needs in a coordinated way that follows inter-agency guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Principal factors leading to the efficient alternating current (AC) field‐induced heating of magnetic fluids are determined based on the results of magnetic and calorimetric measurements on NaFeO2 nanoparticles and their fluids. Features of the magnetic behavior are singled out, and characteristic magnetic parameters, such as the Curie and blocking temperatures, are determined for the NaFeO2 nanoparticles. The dependence of the fluid caloric properties on the AC magnetic field amplitude and nanoparticle concentration is analyzed. It is shown that the heating efficiency of the weakly coercive NaFeO2 nanoparticles displays an amplitude threshold character, and the heating rate is critically dependent on the AC magnetic field amplitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature-dependent magnetic properties and spin echo decay behavior have been studied for an ensemble of La1−xSrxMnO3 (x = 0.23) nanoparticles (of 30 nm in diameter) synthesized by the sol–gel method. Characteristic magnetic parameters, such as blocking temperature and effective Curie temperature for the ensemble, are determined. Enhanced coercivity and its unusual temperature dependence compared to bulk counterparts are revealed, and possible reasons for this phenomenon are discussed. A conclusion about the non-negligible role of interparticle interactions in the enhancement of the coercivity in the ensembles of substituted manganites is made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper and its alloys are widely used in different industrial fields, but environmental impact could lead to corrosion and therefore may result in poor performance of these materials. To ensure safe operation of the equipment, it is necessary to study the corrosion behavior. Here, we introduce a novel study of the kinetics of complete isothermal oxidation in air of pure Cu and Cu1–xGax (0 < x < 0.15) solid solution powders by the periodic weighment method and XRD phase analysis. It is shown that experimental oxidation curves for each Ga-containing sample studied are perfectly described by single-term exponential function. Analysis of these curves made it possible to calculate the main oxidation parameters of Cu1–xGax powders. As a result, it was shown that the activation energy of oxidation increases from 98 to 114 kJ/mol with Ga content increasing from 0 to 12 at.%, while the oxidation rates decrease by almost 100 times. Oxidation of Cu1–xGax powders is accompanied by the depletion of initial solid solution with Ga atoms followed by the formation of Ga2O3, CuO and CuGa2O4 phases. Thus, Ga dopants significantly increase the corrosion resistance of copper at annealing in air (600–850 °C). The results obtained contribute to the optimization of Cu1–xGax solid solution content for development of the targets for deposition of multilayer coatings for technical or medical purposes, for example, CuIn1–xGaxSe2 for solar cells or thin copper–gallium-doped silica-rich bio-active glass implant-type coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnetic properties of thin-film multilayers [Fe/Py]/FeMn/Py are investigated as a function of temperature and thickness of the antiferromagnetic FeMn spacer using SQUID magnetometry. The observed behavior differs substantially for the structures with 6 nm and 15 nm FeMn spacers. While the 15 nm FeMn structure exhibits exchange pinning of both ferromagnetic layers in the entire measurement temperature interval from 5 to 300 K, the 6 nm FeMn structure becomes exchange de-pinned in the vicinity of room temperature. The depinned state is characterized by a single hysteresis loop centered at zero field and having enhanced magnetic coercivity. The observed properties are explained in terms of finite-size effects and possible ferromagnetic interlayer coupling through the thin antiferromagnetic spacer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The topicality of the investigated problem is connected with the necessity to study the positive, constructive aspects of human nature. The concept of intersubjectivity suggests that interpersonal communication can facilitate mutual growth and development of the interaction participants. This leads us from studying the personal traits to the investigation of interpersonal processes. The research aimed to investigate the interconnections of intersubjectivity with intellectual development, aggressiveness, self-image, and the sociometric status among adolescents empirically. The negative correlational link was found between the level of intellectual development and self-image, which can be understood through the concept of critical thinking, as an intellectually developed adolescent can be critical towards him/herself, and it can result in law self-image. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The main research question of the article is how the perception of help and the style of interpersonal relations are connected. In a broad sense, the question refers to the problem of constant and situational variables of prosocial activity. The main methodological framework is Vygotsky's cultural-historical psychology, in particular, the mechanism of interiorization and the interaction of interpsychological and intrapsychological processes. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE: Over 215 participants (students attending school and university, living in Ukraine, aged from 12 to 22 years) took part in our experiment, but because not all of them completed all the necessary forms correctly, only 193 participants' answers were further analyzed. Our two research techniques were Leary's Interpersonal Behavior Circle Personal Inventory and the semantic differential (N = 193). RESULTS: Each disposition from Leary's questionnaire had at least one significant correlation with the way Ukrainian adolescents perceive help. The semantic aspects of perceiving help were investigated with the help of ranking the qualities of the semantic differential for the words "help the other". CONCLUSIONS: The identified correlations contribute to the psychological analysis of the detailed characteristics of perceiving help concerning personal dispositions. Personal, communicational and semantic aspects of help are interconnected and their further research can bring rich insights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the preparation of the article, research was carried out on the general psychological mechanisms of the formation and development of a corporate image. The analysis of the psychological prerequisites for the formation and development of the corporate image, as well as the conditions that optimize these processes. The article discusses the concept of an organization's image - it is a holistic perception (understanding and assessment) of an organization by various groups of the population, formed on the basis of information stored in their memory about various aspects of the organization's activities. The main emphasis in the article is shown that organizations pay special attention to the external image in the eyes of the public, that is, the external environment of any subject. It also proved that the internal image of the organization in the eyes of employees is very important. The research consisted in the formation of both external and internal image. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Russia, the HIV epidemic continues to grow at an alarming rate, and treatment coverage is low. While prevention of mother-to-child transmission is markedly effective in the country; little is known about the mothers' longer-term engagement in HIV care and treatment. Through a community-based, qualitative research study, we aimed to identify and explore the needs of HIV-positive mothers in two diverse locations in Russia. Using thematic analysis, we identified the following four categories of unmet needs: comprehensive and coordinated care, psychological support, material needs, and improved access to services. Our results offer ideas for where to target program and policy interventions to improve women's postpartum engagement in HIV care and treatment in Russia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out on 30 mature WAG rats, 15 intact control animals and 15 rats with modeled Alzheimer’s disease (AD) induced by course injections of scopolamine (27 days, 1 mg/kg, i.p. daily). The contents of ATP, glucose, pyruvate, and lactate were measured spectrophotometrically in homogenates of the brain cortex of the animals. The levels of TSH, T3, and T4 in blood serum and those of T3 and T4 in cortex homogenates were estimated using ELISA. The activities of pyruvate dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase, and key enzymes of the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) were measured in the mitochondria using a spectrophotometric technique. It was found that the content of T3 in the brain cortex of rats was much lower than in the controls against the background of higher T4 concentrations, which was indicative of the development of local hypothyroidism in the brain. The increased activity of pyruvate dehydrogenase against the background of low activities of TCA cycle enzymes in brain homogenates was observed. The decreased creatine kinase activity and low ATP contents were also found. Local hypothyroidism in the brain cortex is believed to be one of the significant factors inducing the development of strong energy deficiency and reducing the activity of Krebs cycle enzymes. Consequently, this contributes to the death of neurons in experimental AD in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical alloying of the elemental powder mixture of iron and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (10, 20 and 30 vol.%) was performed in a high energy planetary ball mill. Nanocomposite materials obtained were examined by X-ray diffraction method as well as by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. It is shown that several phases were forming at the different stages of the milling process, namely, α-(Fe,C) and γ-(Fe,C) supersaturated solid solutions along with the Fe 3- x C and the Fe 7 C 3 carbide phases. The hardness and magnetic properties (Curie temperature and coercive force) of the nanocomposite materials obtained were studied. The process of the mechanical alloying of materials studied has been analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The DyCu x Ga 4− x −δ alloys ( x = 1.2–0.05) have been studied by the X-ray single-crystal and powder diffraction methods as well as by the magnetometric and XPS techniques. Four individual closely related compounds identified here were shown to be the derivatives of BaAl 4 -type structure (tetragonal or orthorhombically distorted) with the increased multiplicity of their a and b sublattice constants, namely, I-DyCu 1.25−1.12 Ga 2.67−2.80 (1 × 1), II-DyCu 1.07 Ga 2.74 (3 × 3), III-DyCu 0.92−0.76 Ga 2.84−3.00 (3 × 3) and IV-DyCu 0.63−0.06 Ga 3.00−3.57 (9 × 9). All alloys studied are paramagnets at (300–650) K temperature range. The effective paramagnetic moment per Dy atom was found to exceed the value for the Dy 3+ ion (10.65 μ B ). Besides, it increases up to 11.2 μ B with Ga content increasing. Magnetic properties of these alloys are discussed based upon crystal and electronic structure changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocomposite materials (NCMs) of the Fe–Cu (4:1) system with/without small addition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been synthesized by mechano-chemical activation of elemental Fe and Cu powders in a high energy planetary ball mill and have been examined by the X-ray diffraction method, SEM and magnetometric studies. The metastable α-(Fe, Cu) supersaturated solid solution is formed in the Fe–Cu nanocomposites during milling process, while a small addition (up to 2 vol.%) of the carbon nanotubes into the Fe–Cu charge results in formation of the martensite-type α-(Fe, Cu, C) phase. The coherent scattering block size of the materials obtained is decreased with milling time increasing. The duration of mechano-chemical activation affects the magnetic properties of nanocomposites studied. Formation of the α-(Fe, Cu, C) phase causes a significant increase of both coercive force and tensile strength of the Fe–Cu (4:1) + CNTs NCMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystal structures of the ternary DyMn x Ga 3 alloys ( x < 0.45) annealed stepwise at 873 and then at 773 K have been studied by the X-ray powder diffraction method. It was shown that four individual phases are formed in the vicinity of the specific stoichiometric compositions as a result of embedding of the manganese atoms into the octahedral holes of the high temperature DyGa 3 compound. These phases are I-Dy 5 Mn 1− y Ga 15 , II-Dy 4 Mn 1− y Ga 12 , III-Dy 3 Mn 1− y Ga 9 and IV-Dy 2 Mn 1− y Ga 6 . The crystal structures of these phases have been determined and considered as externally or/and internally distorted variants of the AuCu 3 -type structure. The temperature dependencies of magnetic susceptibility were determined by using the Faraday technique. All compounds studied are paramagnets in the temperature range of 300–650 K. The XPS analysis has confirmed that the crystal structure features of the DyMn x Ga 3 alloys and their magnetic properties are caused by the changing of an oxidation degree of the manganese atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The structure, magnetic and resistivity characteristics of Co–Si–B metallic glasses containing complex dopants have been investigated. The intervals of thermal stability of the phases existing in the alloys studied have been determined. The temperature dependences of the resistivity were shown to be essentially nonlinear up to a certain temperature, evidencing for the contribution of several scattering mechanisms. Magnetic and resistivity behavior of these alloys are substantially governed by the phase separation within the region of the amorphous state stability and magnetic clusters formation. In the as-cast alloys these clusters are estimated to contain 2–4 Co atoms. Heat treatment significantly affects the structure and magnetic properties. It leads to increase of the Curie temperature and localized magnetic moment, whereas the crystallization temperature remains almost invariable. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Biocompatible superparamagnetic NaFeO 2 nanoparticles synthesized by sol–gel method. • Impact of aging on crystal structure of nanoparticles has studied. • Structural changes affect magnetic parameters of the aged sample. NaFeO 2 magnetic nanoparticles which are biocompatible and have a relatively high saturation magnetization are considered as promising heat mediators for magnetic hyperthermia applications. In this work, we study aging effects in NaFeO 2 nanoparticles and show that they change their structural and magnetic characteristics over time. As-produced NaFeO 2 nanoparticles synthesized by sol–gel technique have been aged in the ambient atmosphere for 10,000 h. Magnetic properties and aging effect were studied by X-ray diffraction and vibrating sample magnetometry at a temperature ranging from 300 to 500 K. Crystal structure of nanoparticles undergoes essential changes, including an increase of lattice parameter and average coherent block size, and decrease of the microdeformation of crystal lattice. These structural changes affect magnetic parameters of the aged sample. It is shown that saturation magnetization becomes higher and Curie temperature tends to increase as the samples undergo the aging processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural properties of nanocomposite TiAlSiN thin films prepared as monolithic single layer, multilayers and gradient films have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, nano-indentation and atomic force microscopy. The films were deposited onto WC–Co substrates using cathodic arc-plasma. The Al content was varied within the range of Al/Ti=0.5–1.5 and the Si content did not exceed 3.5 at.%. The highest hardness (38–39 GPa) was obtained for samples with Al/Ti=1.0, associated with more effective combination of solid solution hardening and Hall–Petch effect arising from structure refinement by Al and Si addition. In contrast, the films with Al/Ti=1.5 showed the lowest hardness values (30–33 GPa) due to the formation of softer wurtzite-like hcp-AlN phase. Formation of layered films slightly improved hardness with respect to monolithic single layer films of comparable chemical composition. Meanwhile, gradient films (Al/Ti=1.0) showed hardness and modulus values very similar to those obtained for single layer films. Unlike mechanical properties, the formation and propagation of indentation induced cracks appeared more sensitive to film structures (columnar, equiaxed nanograins, …) as well as to growth morphology (monolithic, layered, gradient). The primary cracks appear for all films beneath the indenter at the contact site. The morphology of these cracks consists of a network of short, discontinuous, irregular cracks in columnar films, which gives rise to straight, well-organized repeated crack in fine grain structures. Such modification of crack patterns is attributed to the role of grain boundary sliding which is more pronounced in coarse columnar films than in nanograined materials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Fe–Ga alloys, containing 18, 21, and 23 at.% of Ga, were prepared in bulk form. In their as-cast state, they display a small magnetostriction, that is strongly improved after annealing at 1000 ° C for 24 h, and subsequent rapid cooling. Multiple characterization techniques, such as x-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, Mössbauer spectroscopy, temperature-dependent magnetization curves, hysteresis loops, magnetic force microscopy, and magnetostriction measurements, were exploited in synergy to gain a deep understanding of the structure–property relationships in the studied alloys, before and after annealing. The A2 phase, which is favored in the lower range of compositions and is promoted at the expense of the D 0 3 one by annealing, is responsible for characteristic dendritic and maze magnetic domains, and for the strong improvement of the magnetostriction, which almost reaches 240 ppm (transverse configuration) in the alloys with 18 at.% of Ga, after annealing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are invaluable therapeutic options in a variety of dyspeptic diseases. In addition to their well‐known risk profile, PPI consumption is related to food and environmental allergies, dysbiosis, osteoporosis, as well as immediate and delayed hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs). The latter, although a rare event, around 1%–3%, due to the extraordinarily high rate of prescription and consumption of PPIs are related to a substantial risk. In this Position Paper, we provide clinicians with practical evidence‐based recommendations for the diagnosis and management of HSRs to PPIs. Furthermore, the unmet needs proposed in the document aim to stimulate more in‐depth investigations in the topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New social needs in education at the beginning of the XXI century are primarily associated with the peculiarities of the development of higher education, which places high demands on the personality and professional activity of a physical education teacher, in difficult conditions, when the world is at a difficult stage of development, showed by the search for an optimal socio-economic format of coexistence in the global space. The new concept of education requires the improvement of the pedagogical activity of future teachers and their achievement of the development of a high level of personal and professional potential, considering the socioeconomic environment in which the national concepts of preparing young people for life in a changing and unpredictable world order to compete, fighting for their right to dominance. The primary purpose of the article is to form an algorithm for developing an individual educational trajectory, which is decisive in the formation of personal and professional potential of the future physical education teacher. To simplify and systematise this individual trajectory as much as possible, we used the IDEF0 functional modelling methodology, which allows us to see visually the algorithm of functioning of the studied process and the key elements that will be needed. The research results in the article are a theoretical analysis of the existing scientific data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microscopic fungi synthesize a wide range of phenolic compounds that play an important role in cell wall formation, as well as perform signaling and protective functions. One of the important functions of phenolic compounds, primarily polyphenols, is antioxidant activity. The most active polyphenols are flavonoids, their synthesis in microscopic fungi has not been studied enough. The aim of the study was to determine the total phenols and flavonoids content and antioxidant activity of Talaromyces funiculosus strains isolated from different econiches. Methods. 20 strains of the microscopic fungus T. funiculosus - 10 endophytes and 10 saprotrophs were used in the experiments. Cultivation of filamentous fungi was performed under submerged conditions with shaking at 210-230 rpm in Erlenmeyer flasks containing 200 ml of Czapek liquid medium at a temperature 26±2° C for 6 days. The biomass of the strains was filtered, dried at 70° C and extracted with 95% methanol (1:50 w/v). The total phenols content was determined using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent by the method of Arora, Chandra (2010) with some modifications and expressed as mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per g of dry weight mycelium. Flavonoids in each extract were determined spectrophotometrically with AlCl3 and expressed as mg of quercetin equivalents (QE) per g of dry weight mycelium. Antioxidant activity of methanolic extracts was measured as radical scavenging activity by the percentage inhibition of the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical. Results. The total phenolic content of methanolic extracts of T. funiculosus strains ranged from 0.12±0.007 to 1.97±0.150 mg GAE/g. The highest level of phenolic compounds was found for saprotroph UCM F-16790 (1.97±0.150) and endophyte UCM F-16795 (1.71±0.137 mg GAE/g). The flavonoid content in methanolic extracts of the studied strains varied in the range of 0.02±0.001 - 0.39±0.041 mg QE/g. All studied strains of T. funiculosus showed antioxidant activity against DPPH radical, which was 12.19±2.34 - 60.37±7.24% inhibition. Statistical analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between the total phenols and flavonoids content (Pearson's correlation coefficient r=0.92); between antioxidant activity, phenols (r=0.82) and flavonoids (r=0.81) content in methanol extracts of T. funiculosus strains. The total content of phenols and flavonoids and antioxidant activity did not depend on the trophic group of the studied strains. The moderate correlation between flavonoids content and antioxidant activity of methanolic extracts of endophytic T. funiculosus strains (r=0.46) may be related to their ability to synthesize a wider range of polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant activity. Conclusions. The studied T. funiculosus strains have the ability to synthesize phenolic compounds and flavonoids in different concentrations. Correlation analysis revealed strong correlations between total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity. The reason for phenomenon of moderate correlation (r=0.46) between flavonoid content and antioxidant activity in endophytic strains may be the synthesis of other compounds by individual strains. The determination of individual components synthesized by the most active strains is of scientific interest for further study. T. funiculosus UСM F-16795 and UСM F-16790 strains had a quite high level of phenols and flavonoids. Obtained data may be promising for the search for phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties to increase plant resistance to negative impacts of environmental stress factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of our research was to assess the state of red blood cell (RBC) membranes in rats orally administered caffeinated energy drinks during two months using the fluorescent probe O1O (2-(2'-OHphenyl)- 5-phenyl-1,3-oxazole). Fluorescent probe O1O (2-(2'-OH-phenyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-oxazole), which locates in the area of glycerol backbones, carbonyl groups of phospholipids, and hydrocarbon chains of phospholipids (near carbonyl groups) in the bilayer, was used to assess the state of RBC membranes in suspensions prepared from whole blood samples obtained from ten female adult WAG rats orally administered a caffeinated energy drink at a dose of 12 ml/kg during two months and ten controls. Energy drink consumption was associated with a higher fluorescence intensity of the phototautomer form of the probe O1O (the fluorescence maximum is at a wavelength of 480 nm) in erythrocyte suspensions compared with the control animals. The observed change in the fluorescence of the probe is attributed to the increase in the viscosity of the probe environment in the membrane. It was revealed using the fluorescent probe O1O that the long-term oral administration of caffeinated energy drinks to rats caused the increased membrane viscosity (i.e. reduced fluidity) in RBCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternaria species isolated from different econiches produce a wide variety of biologically active metabolites. The aim of this article was the evaluation of the biological activity spectrum of the small-spored Alternaria species from different trophic groups (saprophytes, endophytes and plant pathogens) using screening of biologically active metabolites on a wide set of test organisms, and selection of promising strainsproducers. Methods. Antibiotic, antifungal and phytotoxic activities of culture filtrates and chloroform extracts were determined by agar diffusion assay method. Results. 19% of cultural filtrates among of 64 studied strains showed the biological activity at least against one test organism. The most of these fungi belong to endophytic strains and were active against test plant pathogenic fungi, bacteria and algae. Chloroform extracts of cultural filtrates of 33% of fungi showed biological activity against at least to one test organism. The obtained extracts had specific activity mainly against certain test culture. These preparations selectively inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus B-909, Chlorella vulgaris 191 and Rizoctonia solani 16036. Conclusions. The screening of 64 strains of the Alternaria fungi isolated from different ecological niches allows concluding that they have low biological activity. Endophytic Alternaria strains were characterized by wider spectrum of activities than plant pathogenic and soil ones. They inhibited all test organisms except Gram negative bacteria and yeast-like fungi. The biologically active metabolites of endophytic Alternaria strains including high-molecular compounds play important role in mutual coexistence endophytic fungi and host-plants as well as their spread. Chloroform extracts of the soil saprophytes had comparably high activity especially against fungi and algae. Obviously these low-molecular compounds facilitate to adaptive survival of saprophytic fungi in soil habitats with high biodiversity. For further studies were selected two strains: highly phytotoxic A. brassicicola 2855 and A. longipes 16800 (an antagonist of S. aureus B-909). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In thirty-five 18- to 22-year-old healthy men (14 and 21 subjects of the Indian and Ukrainian populations, respectively), we examined correlations of the levels of sex hormones (testosterone and β-estradiol) in blood serum with the indices of physical and verbal aggressiveness estimated using the Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory. In both general examined group and separate above-mentioned subgroups, moderate (r from 0.30 to 0.60) correlations were found between the testosterone concentrations and levels of physical aggressiveness, but these correlations did not reach the significance level. Correlations of testosterone with the levels of verbal aggressiveness were less expressed and, in some cases, negative. Correlations of aggressiveness with the estradiol levels were weaker or negligible. There were some specificities of the sex hormone contents in the Indian and Ukrainian subgroups, but these variations remained within physiological limits. The ratio of the lengths of fingers 2 and 4 of the right hand (2D:4D ratio), an anthropometric index proposed as a marker of prenatal exposure to sex hormones and of the aggressiveness level, demonstrated significant correlations with the testosterone contents in the general group and separate subgroups. However, these correlations were relatively weak, and individual values of the examined indices were highly variable. It is concluded that the 2D:4D ratio is affected not only by the levels of sex hormones, but also by a number of other regulatory factors, and this anthropometric index cannot be used as the single-valued retrospective biomarker of the exposure to androgens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the work was to optimize the hydrolysis conditions of wheat straw by complex enzyme preparation from Fennellia sp. 2806 with endo-, exoglucanase, xylanase and P-glucosidase activities. Bioconversion of wheat straw was carried out by an enzyme preparation obtained from the culture filtrate of Fennellia sp. 2806. The two methods of statistical optimization of the experiment — the Plackett-Burman (determination of significant factors) and Box-Behnken (determination of optimal values of defined significant factors) methods were used consequentially to optimize the hydrolysis conditions. Endo-, exoglucanase, xylanase and P-glucosidase activities were assayed in enzyme preparation. Reducing sugars were determined by the modified Bertrand method. As a result of two-stage optimization of the bioconversion process of wheat straw by enzyme preparation from Fennellia sp. 2806, it was found that the highest reducing sugars values were formed at temperature 50 °C, pH 5.0, substrate concentration 100 mg/ml, endoglucanase activity — 0.012 u/mg substrate, process duration — 18 h and pre-treatment by 4.5% alkali solution with further exposure to a microwave irradiation 6 W /g WS for 10 min. So it was established that temperature, pH, substrate concentration, pre-treatment of wheat straw by alkali solution and microwave irradiation were the significant factors for the hydrolysis process of substrate by enzyme preparation from Fennellia sp. 2806. Reducing sugars concentration was increased 1.5-2.0 times compared with the results obtained for the native wheat straw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We study phase equilibria in ternary Ni–Al–Ga in the whole concentration range. [•] Ni(Al,Ga), Ni2(Al,Ga)3, Ni5(Al,Ga)3 extended solid solutions exist in this system. [•] Isothermal section (700°C) of the Ni–Al–Ga system has been constructed. [•] Small additions of Ga increase compressive strength of Ni3(Al,Ga) solid solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To estimate the state of phospholipid bilayer of rats WBCs exposed to a common food additive E407a, which is used as a thickener and emulsifier, during 4 h using a fluorescent probe − ortho-hydroxy derivative of 2,5-diaryl-1,3-oxazole. Steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy: a study by the environment-sensitive fluores-cent probe − 2-(2′-hydroxy-phenyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-oxazole (probe O1O). Changes are detected in the spectra of the fluorescent probe bound to rat WBCs treated with the solutions of E407a of various concentrations in comparison with the corresponding spectra of the probe incubated with the untreated leukocytes. The decrease in polarity and proton-donor ability is observed in the lipid membranes of leukocytes in the region, where the probe locates. Our findings suggest a higher dehydration of leukocyte membranes of rats treated with a common food additive E407a at high concentrations and, thus, indicate that exposure to high doses of E407a leads to the increase in the lipid order (i.e. to decrease in fluidity) of the membranes of rat WBCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The ternary alloys of the Y–Cu–Ga system have been reinvestigated and the refined data on the compositions and crystal structures of the ternary compounds were received. It was shown that each extended solid solution (ThMn12-, PrFe7-, CaCu5-, BaAl4-, La3Al11-, KHg2-, CaIn2- and CsCl-type structures) consists of several individual isostructural phases, each of them reveals a partial fillings of the certain positions by yttrium or/and copper/gallium atoms. The composition of these phases gradually shifts to the higher yttrium content with increase in Ga-content. Taking into account the structural peculiarities of the extended solid solutions, 23 phases in total were found to exist in the Y–Cu–Ga system at 700°C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The directed search for extremophilic producers in order to obtain hydrolytic enzymes with increased thermal stability has an unconditional practical potential for use in the food and feed industry to improve the quality of the final product. The aim of the work was to study the ability of collection strains of thermophilic fungi to show α-L-rhamnosidase, α-galactosidase, cellulase, β-mannanase, keratinase and caseinolytic activity. Methods. Micromycetes were grown under submerged conditions in test tubes at 42 °C for 8-14 days. Enzymatic activities were studied in the culture liquid supernatant. p-Nitrophenyl-α-D-galactopyranoside, naringin, guar gum galactomannan and Na-carboxymethylcellulose were used as substrates to determine α-galactosidase, α-L-rhamnosidase, β-mannanase and cellulase activities, respectively. Casein and crushed defatted feathers were served as substrates for the determination of proteolytic activity. Results. The enzymatic activity of 50 strains of micromycetes belonging to 17 species was investigated. The studied group showed high activity: 94 % of the strains had at least one, 34 % - two, 26 % - from three to five enzyme activities. The most active keratinase producers were Thielavia terrestris 1920 and 62, Rhizomucor tauricus 1909, Chrysosporium thermophilum 2050, Thermoascus thermophilus 92 and Thermoascus aurantiаcus 2052 (10-26 U/mL). The highest α-L-rhamnosidase activity was observed in T. terrestris 62 (0.35 U/mL), and carboxymethylcellulase activity -in Thermomyces lanuginosus 2046. Six strains showed α-galactosidase (0.05-0.2 U/mL) and four strains - β-mannanase (5-130 U/mL) activity. Conclusions. As a result new strains producing proteolytic and glycolytic enzymes were isolated among thermophilic micromycetes. Soil thermophilic micromycetes can be used as producers of proteolytic and glycolytic enzymes. Of particular interest are the cultures of Acremonium thermophilum 1963, Corynascus thermophilum 2050, C. sepedonium 1899 and 65068, T. thermophilus 1946, which are capable of producing complexes of proteases and glycosidases in the culture liquid. This indicates that these strains are promising for use as destructors in various technologies processing of complex raw materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To assess the impact of semi-refined carrageenan (E407a) on hydrophobic regions of phosphololipid bilayer in cell membranes of leukocytes collected from rats orally administered this food additive and white blood cells incubated with E407a. Methods Fluorescent probes (ortho-hydroxy derivatives of 2,5-diaryl-1,3-oxazole) were used to estimate the state of lipid bilayer in leukocytes obtained from rats orally exposed to the food additive E407a and in white blood cells incubated with E407a. Results No noticeable changes in the physico-chemical properties were observed in the lipid membranes of leukocytes in the region where the probes locate in response to oral intake of semi-refined carrageenan. Incubation of leukocytes with E407a solutions resulted in a decrease in polarity and proton-donor ability of leukocytes in the area of carbonyl groups of phospholipids and in the area of hydrocarbon chains of phospholipids near the polar region of the bilayer. Conclusion Membrane fluidity abnormalities found in cells exposed to E407a are similar to those observed in patients with IBD suggesting that contribution of carrageenan to IBD development may be partially explained by leukocyte membrane modifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Chronic urticaria (CU) is a skin condition characterized by repeated occurrence of itchy weals and/or angio‐oedema for > 6 weeks. Aim: To provide data demonstrating the real‐life burden of CU in the UK. Methods: This UK subset of the worldwide, prospective, noninterventional AWARE study included patients aged 18–75 years diagnosed with H1‐antihistamine (H1‐AH)‐refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) for > 2 months. Baseline characteristics, disease activity, treatments, comorbidities and healthcare resource use were documented. Quality of life (QoL), work productivity and activity impairment were assessed. Results: Baseline analysis included 252 UK patients. Mean age and body mass index were 45.0 years and 29.0 kg/m2, respectively. Most patients were female (77.8%) and had moderate/severe disease activity (mean Urticaria Activity Score over 7 days was 18.4) and a 'spontaneous' component to their CU (73.4% CSU; 24.6% CSU and chronic inducible urticaria). Common comorbidities included depression/anxiety (24.6%), asthma (23.8%) and allergic rhinitis (12.7%). A previous treatment was recorded for 57.9% of patients. Mean Dermatology Life Quality Index score was 9.5, and patients reported impairments in work productivity and activity. Healthcare resource use was high. Severity of CSU was associated with female sex, obesity, anxiety and diagnosis. Only 28.5% of patients completed all nine study visits, limiting analysis of long‐term treatment patterns and disease impact. Conclusions: Adult H1‐AH‐refractory patients with CU in the UK reported high rates of healthcare resource use and impairment in QoL, work productivity and activity at baseline. The differing structures of UK healthcare may explain the high study discontinuation rates versus other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent survey of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Drug Allergy Interest Group (DAIG) on how European allergy specialists deal with beta‐lactam (BL) hypersensitivity demonstrated a significant heterogeneity in current practice, suggesting the need to review and update existing EAACI guidelines in order to make the diagnostic procedures as safe and accurate, but also as cost‐effective, as possible. For this purpose, a bibliographic search on large studies regarding BL hypersensitivity diagnosis was performed by an EAACI task force, which reviewed and evaluated the literature data using the GRADE system for quality of evidence and strength of recommendation. The updated guidelines provide a risk stratification in BL hypersensitivity according to index reaction(s), as well as an algorithmic approach, based on cross‐reactivity studies, in patients with a suspicion of BL hypersensitivity and an immediate need for antibiotic therapy, when referral to an allergist is not feasible. Furthermore, the update addresses availability and concentrations of skin test (ST) reagents, ST and drug provocation test (DPT) protocols, and diagnostic algorithms and administration of alternative BL in allergic subjects. Specifically, distinct diagnostic algorithms are suggested depending on risk stratification of the patient into high and low risk based on the morphology and chronology of the reaction, immediate (ie, occurring within 1‐6 hours after the last administered dose) or nonimmediate (ie, occurring more than 1 hour after the initial drug administration), and the reaction severity. Regarding the allergy workup, the main novelty of this document is the fact that in some low‐risk nonimmediate reactions ST are not mandatory, especially in children. For DPT, further studies are necessary to provide data supporting the standardization of protocols, especially of those regarding nonimmediate reactions, for which there is currently no consensus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHRs) are associated with high global morbidity and mortality. Cutaneous T cell–mediated reactions classically occur more than 6 hours after drug administration and include life‐threatening conditions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens‐Johnson syndrome, and hypersensitivity syndrome. Over the last 20 years, significant advances have been made in our understanding of the pathogenesis of DHRs with the identification of human leukocyte antigens as predisposing factors. This has led to the development of pharmacogenetic screening tests, such as HLA‐B*57:01 in abacavir therapy, which has successfully reduced the incidence of abacavir hypersensitivity reactions. We have completed a PRISMA‐compliant systematic review to identify genetic associations that have been reported in DHRs. In total, 105 studies (5554 cases and 123 548 controls) have been included in the review reporting genetic associations with carbamazepine (n = 31), other aromatic antiepileptic drugs (n = 24), abacavir (n = 11), nevirapine (n = 14), trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (n = 11), dapsone (n = 4), allopurinol (n = 10), and other drugs (n = 5). The most commonly reported genetic variants associated with DHRs are located in human leukocyte antigen genes and genes involved in drug metabolism pathways. Increasing our understanding of genetic variants that contribute to DHRs will allow us to improve diagnosis, develop new treatments, and predict and prevent DHRs in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caffeinated energy drinks (CEDs) have become extremely popular over the last decade. In recent years, many researchers have raised a concern about the safety of CEDs. The aim of our study was to evaluate the morphology of the liver, as well as the features of hepatocyte apoptosis/regeneration, in rats orally exposed to CEDs for 2 weeks. Sixteen WAG rats formed two equal groups. Rats from the experimental group were orally exposed to a CED at a dose of 12 ml/kg of body weight for 2 weeks. The control group consisted of intact animals with the provided access to drinking water instead. The content of apoptosis marker caspase-3 and the activity of poly-(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) were evaluated in liver homogenates. The activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was determined in the blood serum. Hepatic Ki-67 expression was quantitatively assessed immunohistochemically. A statistically significant increase in the level of caspase-3 and a decrease in the activity of PARP in liver homogenates against the background of energy drink consumption by rats indicate the activation of hepatocyte apoptosis, evidenced by chromatin margination of hepatocytes as well. Cytolysis of hepatocytes was confirmed by the elevation of ALT and AST. In response to cell death, liver parenchyma starts proliferating. This fact is supported by the statistically significant increase in the amount of Ki-67+ hepatocytes in rats exposed to CED compared with controls. Oral exposure to a CED during 2 weeks promotes liver damage, apoptosis, and regeneration of hepatocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accurate diagnosis of β‐lactam (BL) allergy can reduce patient morbidity and mortality. Our aim was to investigate the availability of BL reagents, their use and test procedures in different parts of Europe, as well as any differences in the diagnostic workups for evaluating subjects with BL hypersensitivity. A survey was emailed to all members of the EAACI Drug Allergy Interest Group (DAIG) between February and April 2016, and the questionnaire was meant to study the management of suspected BL hypersensitivity. The questionnaire was emailed to 82 DAIG centres and answered by 57. Amoxicillin alone or combined to clavulanic acid were the most commonly involved BL except in the Danish centre, where penicillin V was the most frequently suspected BL. All centres performed an allergy workup in subjects with histories of hypersensitivity to BL: 53 centres (93%) followed DAIG guidelines, two national guidelines and two local guidelines. However, there were deviations from DAIG recommendations concerning allergy tests, especially drug provocation tests. A significant heterogeneity exists in current practice not only among countries, but also among centres within the same country. This suggests the need to re‐evaluate, update and standardize protocols on the management of patients with suspected BL allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: ASSURE‐CSU revealed differences in physician and patient reporting of angioedema. This post hoc analysis was conducted to evaluate the actual rate of angioedema in the study population and explore differences between patients with and without angioedema. Methods: This international observational study assessed 673 patients with inadequately controlled chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Physicians abstracted angioedema data from medical records, which were compared with patient‐reported data. Patients in the Yes‐angioedema category had angioedema reported in the medical record and a patient‐reported source. For those in the No‐angioedema category, angioedema was reported in neither the medical record nor a patient‐reported source. Those in the Misaligned category had angioedema reported in only one source. Statistical comparisons between Yes‐angioedema and No‐angioedema categories were conducted for measures of CSU activity, health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), productivity and healthcare resource utilization (HCRU). Regression analyses explored the relationship between Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) score and angioedema, adjusting for important covariates. Results: Among evaluable patients, 259 (40.3%), 173 (26.9%) and 211 (32.8%) were in the Yes‐angioedema, No‐angioedema and Misaligned category, respectively. CSU activity and impact on HRQoL, productivity, and HCRU was greater for Yes‐angioedema patients than No‐angioedema patients. After covariate adjustment, mean DLQI score was significantly higher (indicating worse HRQoL) for patients with angioedema versus no angioedema (9.88 vs 7.27, P < .001). The Misaligned category had similar results with Yes‐angioedema on all outcomes. Conclusions: Angioedema in CSU seems to be under‐reported but has significant negative impacts on HRQoL, daily activities, HCRU and work compared with no angioedema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To investigate the lipid membranes of rat enterocytes in chronic carrageenan-induced gastroenterocolitis accompanied by the activation of apoptotic processes. Methods Steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy: a study by fluorescent probes - by ortho-hydroxy derivatives of 2,5-diaryl-1,3-oxazole. Activity of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase in small intestinal homogenates, blood serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and caspase-3 and the level of DNA fragmentation in small intestinal homogenates were determined. Results Biochemical analysis revealed that an activation of apoptotic processes occurred in the intestinal epithelium of rats during chronic carrageenan-induced gastroenterocolitis. The fluorescence probes showed that activation of apoptotic processes in carrageenan-induced gastroenterocolitis was accompanied by changes in polar regions of rat enterocyte membranes, while no changes were revealed in more hydrophobic regions of the membranes. Conclusion The increase in hydration of membranes was attributed to the activation of the apoptosis of enterocytes. It has been shown that a fluorescent probe (2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-oxazole) can be used for the detection of apoptosis of enterocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural features of nanocomposite YCu powder material obtained by mechanical alloying of the equiatomic Y-Cu elemental powder mixture in a high-energy ball mill have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. It has been shown that YCu compound with a full ordered CsCl-type structure along with YCu 2 intermetallic have formed at early stage of the milling process (10 min) while a long-time processing product contains these phases as well as Y 2 O 3 oxide. The nanoindentation measurements of the bulk samples compacted after 60 and 120 min of milling have revealed that the mean hardness values H for these samples are higher than those for conventional bulk YCu intermetallic obtained by arc melting. The main reasons for hardness increase are fine-grained microstructure and reinforcement of material by Y 2 O 3 particles uniformly distributed throughout the volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Since 1988, numerous allergen immunotherapy guidelines (AIT‐GLs) have been developed by national and international organizations to guide physicians in AIT. Even so, AIT is still severely underused. Objective: To evaluate AIT‐GLs with AGREE‐II, developed in 2010 by McMaster University methodologists to comprehensively evaluate GL quality. Methods: Allergist, from different continents, knowledgeable in AIT and AGREE‐II trained were selected into the project team. The project received methodologists’ guidance. AIT‐GLs in any language were sought from 1980 to 2016; AIT‐GLs were AGREE II‐evaluated by at least 2 team members, independently; discrepancies were resolved in a second round, by team discussion or methodologists’ consulting. Results: We found 31 AIT‐GLs (15 post‐2010), ranging from local consensus reports to international position papers (EAACI, AAAAI‐ACAAI, WAO). Pre‐2010 GLs scored 1.6‐4.6 (23%‐67%) and post‐2010 GLs scored 2.1‐6 (30%‐86%), on a 7‐point Likert scale. The highest scores went to: German‐Austrian‐Swiss (6.0), Mexican (5.1), and the AAAAI/ACAAI AIT‐GL (4.7). These were also the only 3 GLs that received “yes” of both evaluators to the item: “I would recommend this GL for use.” The domains of “Stakeholder involvement” and “Rigor of Development” only scored 3/7, and “Applicability” scored the lowest. Strikingly, newer GLs only scored clearly better in “Editorial independence” and “Global evaluation.” Conclusions: In AIT‐GLs, there is still a lot of room for improvement, especially in domains crucial for the dissemination. For some GLs, the “Scientific rigor” domain flawed. When resources are limited, transculturizing a high‐quality GL might be preferable over developing a GL from zero. Our study and AGREE‐II could help to select the best candidate. Clinical Implications: We here evaluate allergen immunotherapy guideline (AIT‐GL) quality. Only high‐quality AIT‐GLs should be consulted for AIT management decisions. In low‐resource settings, transculturization of these is preferred over developing low‐quality guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Chronic spontaneous urticaria ( CSU) can be debilitating, difficult to treat, and frustrating for patients and physicians. Real-world evidence for the burden of CSU is limited. The objective of this study was to document disease duration, treatment history, and disease activity, as well as impact on health-related quality of life ( HRQoL) and work among patients with inadequately controlled CSU, and to describe its humanistic, societal, and economic burden. Methods This international observational study assessed a cohort of 673 adult patients with CSU whose symptoms persisted for ≥12 months despite treatment. Demographics, disease characteristics, and healthcare resource use in the previous 12 months were collected from medical records. Patient-reported data on urticaria and angioedema symptoms, HRQoL, and work productivity and activity impairment were collected from a survey and a diary. Results Almost 50% of patients had moderate-to-severe disease activity as reported by Urticaria Activity Score. Mean ( SD) Dermatology Life Quality Index and Chronic Urticaria Quality of Life Questionnaire scores were 9.1 (6.62) and 33.6 (20.99), respectively. Chronic spontaneous urticaria markedly interfered with sleep and daily activities. Angioedema in the previous 12 months was reported by 66% of enrolled patients and significantly affected HRQoL. More than 20% of patients reported ≥1 hour per week of missed work; productivity impairment was 27%. These effects increased with increasing disease activity. Significant healthcare resources and costs were incurred to treat CSU. Conclusions Chronic spontaneous urticaria has considerable humanistic and economic impacts. Patients with greater disease activity and with angioedema experience greater HRQoL impairments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hypersensitivity to acetylsalicylic acid ( ASA) constitutes a serious problem for subjects with coronary artery disease. In such subjects, physicians have to choose the more appropriate procedure between challenge and desensitization. As the literature on this issue is sparse, this study aimed to establish in these subjects clinical criteria for eligibility for an ASA challenge and/or desensitization. Methods Collection and analysis of data on ASA challenges and desensitizations from 10 allergy centers, as well as consensus among the related physicians and an expert panel. Results Altogether, 310 subjects were assessed; 217 had histories of urticaria/angioedema, 50 of anaphylaxis, 26 of nonimmediate cutaneous eruptions, and 17 of bronchospasm related to ASA/nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAID) intake. Specifically, 119 subjects had index reactions to ASA doses lower than 300 mg. Of the 310 subjects, 138 had an acute coronary syndrome ( ACS), 101 of whom underwent desensitizations, whereas 172 suffered from a chronic ischemic heart disease ( CIHD), 126 of whom underwent challenges. Overall, 163 subjects underwent challenges and 147 subjects underwent desensitizations; 86 of the latter had index reactions to ASA doses of 300 mg or less. Ten subjects reacted to challenges, seven at doses up to 500 mg, three at a cumulative dose of 110 mg. The desensitization failure rate was 1.4%. Conclusions In patients with stable CIHD and histories of nonsevere hypersensitivity reactions to ASA/ NSAIDs, an ASA challenge is advisable. Patients with an ACS and histories of hypersensitivity reactions to ASA, especially following doses lower than 100 mg, should directly undergo desensitization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug hypersensitivity reactions ( DHRs) are a matter of great concern, both for outpatient and in hospital care. The evaluation of these patients is complex, because in vivo tests have a suboptimal sensitivity and can be time-consuming, expensive and potentially risky, especially drug provocation tests. There are several currently available in vitro methods that can be classified into two main groups: those that help to characterize the active phase of the reaction and those that help to identify the culprit drug. The utility of these in vitro methods depends on the mechanisms involved, meaning that they cannot be used for the evaluation of all types of DHRs. Moreover, their effectiveness has not been defined by a consensus agreement between experts in the field. Thus, the European Network on Drug Allergy and Drug Allergy Interest Group of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has organized a task force to provide data and recommendations regarding the available in vitro methods for DHR diagnosis. We have found that although there are many in vitro tests, few of them can be given a recommendation of grade B or above mainly because there is a lack of well-controlled studies, most information comes from small studies with few subjects and results are not always confirmed in later studies. Therefore, it is necessary to validate the currently available in vitro tests in a large series of well-characterized patients with DHR and to develop new tests for diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug hypersensitivity includes allergic ( AR) and nonallergic reactions ( NARs) influenced by genetic predisposition. We performed a systematic review of genetic predictors of IgE-mediated AR and NAR with MEDLINE and PubMed search engine between January 1966 and December 2014. Among 3110 citations, the search selected 53 studies, 42 of which remained eligible. These eligible studies have evaluated genetic determinants of immediate reactions ( IR) to beta-lactams ( n = 19), NAR against aspirin ( n = 12) and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) ( n = 8), and IR to biologics ( n = 3). We reported two genomewide association studies and four case-control studies on candidate genes validated by replication. Genes involved in IR to beta-lactams belonged to HLA type 2 antigen processing, IgE production, atopy, and inflammation, including 4 genes validated by replications, HLA- DRA, ILR4, NOD2, and LGALS3. Genes involved in NAR to aspirin belonged to arachidonic acid pathway, membrane-spanning 4A gene family, histamine production pathway, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, while those involved in NAR to all NSAIDs belonged to arachidonic acid pathway and HLA antigen processing pathway. ALOX5 was a common predictor of studies on NAR to both aspirin and NSAIDs. Although these first conclusions could be drawn, this review highlights also the lack of reliable data and the need for replicating studies in contrasted populations, taking into account worldwide allele frequencies, gene-gene interactions, and contrasted situations of environmental exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to screen and to study the effect of inducers on the synthesis of the cellulolytic enzyme complexes by microscopic fungi. Cellulolytic and xylanolytic activities were determined by reducing sugar with DNS reagent, and β-glucosidase activity by pNPG hydrolysis. The enzyme preparations were obtained by ammonium sulphate precipitation. Among 32 studied strains of microscopic fungi 14 produced cellulo- and xylanolytic enzyme complexes. Fusarium sp. 5 and Fennellia sp. 2806 demonstrated the highest levels of all studied enzyme activities. Enzyme preparations with high endo-, exoglucanase, xylanase and β-glucosidase activities were obtained from these strains. Fusarium sp. 5 and Fennellia sp. 2806 were active producers of cellulase enzyme complexes during growth on natural substrates. It was shown that inductors of cellulolytic enzymes in Fusarium sp. 5 and Fennellia sp. 2806 differed from the ones in Trichoderma reesei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) formerly known as chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is a severe and distressing skin condition that remains uncontrolled in approximately one half of patients, despite the use of licensed, recommended doses of modern, second-generation H1-antihistamines. So far, the humanistic, societal and economic burden of CSU/CIU has not been well quantified. Therefore it is important to broaden our understanding of how CSU/CIU impacts patients, society, and healthcare systems, by determining the disease burden of CSU/CIU and the associated unmet need; as well as to further guide the use of new treatments in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Methods: ASSURE-CSU is an observational, multicenter study being conducted in the UK, Germany, Canada, France, Italy, Spain, and The Netherlands. The study comprises a retrospective medical chart review in conjunction with patient surveys (including validated tools for assessment of disease impact) and an 8-day patient diary. The primary objectives of the study are to describe patient demographics, medical history, treatments, and healthcare resource utilization based on medical-record data and to assess the impact of disease, healthcare resource utilization, work days missed, and productivity loss based on patient-reported data. Approximately 700 patients (aged ≥18 years) will be enrolled who have CSU/CIU despite currently receiving treatment, and have had persistent symptoms for at least 12 months. Data will be collected retrospectively for the 12 months (±1 month) prior to enrolment wherever possible, and prospectively for the week following enrolment. Discussion: ASSURE-CSU will be the first study to examine the economic and humanistic burden of disease in patients diagnosed with CSU/CIU who are symptomatic despite treatment. By combining retrospective evaluation of medical records with prospective patient surveys and 8-day diaries, across seven different countries, the ASSURE-CSU study will contribute to a better understanding and acknowledgement of the burden of disease in patients with symptomatic chronic spontaneous urticaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fcc NiC monocarbide was synthesized by milling of nickel and CNT/graphite charge. • A two-step carbide formation mechanism has been proposed. • Associated changes in the nickel lattice were evaluated and discussed. • Allotropic form of carbon used makes an impact on NiC crystal structure. • Magnetic moment per nickel atom (2.83μ B) is higher than that of a bulk Ni (1.3μ B). In the present work, a comprehensive study of mechanical alloying of Ni-carbon nanotubes (CNT) and Ni-Graphite equiatomic powder mixtures under the same technological modes has provided to reveal the features of using different types of carbon (CNT or graphite) as a charge component. The as-milled powders were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and magnetometric study. A novel nanoscale fcc NiC monocarbide was synthesized regardless the type of the charge used. According to the XRD study the formation of this phase takes place in two stages. A two-step carbide formation mechanism has been proposed. The associated changes in the nickel lattice, such as changes in the lattice parameter, lattice strain and residual stresses, which led to the formation of NiC monocarbide were also evaluated and discussed. Parameters of the electronic structure of NiC were calculated using the MStudio MindLab 7.0 software package with the experimental data on the crystal structure of the NiC phase obtained as input. Temperature dependencies of magnetic susceptibility of NiC synthesized have been studied up to 950 K. Carbides synthesized were found to be weak ferromagnets at the room temperature and their Curie temperature T C ranges within 670 – 725 K. The calculated value of the magnetic moment per nickel atom (2.83μ B) is higher than that of a bulk Ni (1.3μ B). Likely, the observed increase of μ is caused by the presence of a certain amount of residual single-domain ferromagnetic Ni nanoparticles in the samples synthesized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: New members of the A n B n−1O3n perovskite-like family (Ba5KNb5O18 and Sr6Nb4SnO18 compounds) with n = 6 have been synthesized and studied by the X-ray powder diffraction. Their crystal structures were found to belong to the Ba6Nb4TiO18-type with a = 0.57840(7) nm, c = 4.2532(5) nm and a = 0.5661(1) nm, c = 4.186(1) nm for Ba5KNb5O18 and Sr6Nb4SnO18, respectively. It was shown that Ba and K (A-atoms) are completely disordered in the crystal structure of Ba5KNb5O18 compound. But Nb and Sn atoms (B-atoms) in the crystal structure of the Sr6Nb4SnO18 compound are quite ordered with the preferred Sn+4 and Nb5+ cations localization in the center of perovskite-like block and on the boundaries of these blocks, respectively. Temperature and frequency dependencies of the real components of electric conductivity σ I and dielectric permeability ɛ I; specific electric conductivity at the direct current σ dc have been obtained by the impedance spectroscopy method for Sr6Nb4SnO18. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] We study the crystal structure of GdAl x Ga4−x compounds with 8–66at.% Ga. [•] Existing range of these compounds is fragmented into seven individual regions. [•] The effective magnetic moments have been calculated. [•] The excess magnetic moments are caused by the contribution of the non-4f electrons. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The safety of food additives E407 and E407a has raised concerns in the scientific community. Thus, this study aims to assess the local and systemic toxic effects of the common food additive E407a in rats orally exposed to it for two weeks. Complex evaluations of the effects of semi-refined carrageenan (E407a) on rats upon oral exposure were performed. Local effects of E407a on the intestine were analyzed using routine histological stains and CD68 immunostaining. Furthermore, circulating levels of inflammatory markers were assessed. A fluorescent probe O1O (2- (2′-OH-phenyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-oxazole) was used for evaluating the state of leukocyte cell membranes. Cell death modes of leukocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry using Annexin V and 7-aminoactinomycin D staining. Oral administration of the common food additive E407a was found to be associated with altered small and large intestinal morphology, infiltration of the lamina propria in the small intestine with macrophages (CD68+ cells), high systemic levels of inflammation markers, and changes in the lipid order of the phospholipid bilayer in the cell membranes of leukocytes, alongside the activation of their apoptosis. Our findings suggest that oral exposure to E407a through rats results in the development of intestinal inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The crystal structures of seven Ga-rich compounds that exist in the Y–Cu–Ga system were studied by the X-ray single-crystal and powder diffraction methods. The crystal structures of six phases were shown to be constructed from the orthorhombic distorted BaAl4-like fragments by multiplication of its a and b lattice constants. These compounds are: 1-Y1.02Cu1.35Ga2.63 (modified BaAl4-type structure, 1×1 multiplication), 2-Y1.04Cu1.12Ga2.84 and 3-Y1.05Cu1.00Ga2.95 (own type structure, 3×3), 4-Y1.08Cu0.72Ga3.20 (own, 9×9), 5-Y3Cu4Ga7 and 6-Y3.21Cu3.09Ga7.70 (La3Al11, 3×1), 7-YCuGa2 (own, 3×3). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]