Abstract Pulse-reverse power modes are used in galvanotechniques in order to obtain coatings with better characteristics in terms of gloss, adhesion, tracking sharp edges and uniform distribution of deposits on complex shape objects, compared with the coatings produced by constant current modes. Pulse-reverse modes also allow the use of a higher current density, and thus the production speed of electroplating cells increases. Systems for standard electroplating of copper, silver and gold are optimised by the suitable choice of duration and intensity of the pulses. It is shown that coatings with satisfactory quality can be deposited using higher current density, different modes of pulsed current in a very short period of time, without expensive and often dangerous additives in the electrolyte. Parameters of the model for certain electrochemical systems were determined by modelling and computer simulation, so the system behaviour under different circumstances becomes predictive.

Introduction: There are increasing concerns world-wide with growing rates of antibiotic resistance necessitating urgent action. There have been a number of initiatives in the Republic of Srpska in recent years to address this and improve rational antibiotic prescribing and dispensing despite limited resources to fund multiple initiatives. Objective: Analyse antibiotic utilization patterns in the Republic of Srpska following these multiple initiatives as a basis for developing future programmes in the Republic if needed. Methods: Observational retrospective study of total outpatient antibiotic utilization from 2010 to 2015, based on data obtained from the Public Health Institute, alongside documentation of ongoing initiatives to influence utilization. The quality of antibiotic utilization principally assessed according to ESAC, ECDC, and WHO quality indicators and DU 90% (the drug utilization 90%) profile as well as vs. neighboring countries. Results: Following multiple initiatives, antibiotic utilization remained relatively stable in the Republic at 15.6 to 18.4 DIDs, with a decreasing trend in recent years, with rates comparable or lower than neighboring countries. Amoxicillin and the penicillins accounted for 29–40 and 50% of total utilization, respectively. Overall, limited utilization of co-amoxiclav (7–11%), cephalosporins, macrolides, and quinolones, as well as low use of third and fourth generation cephalosporins vs. first and second cephalosporins. However, increasing utilization of co-amoxiclav and azithromycin, as well as higher rates of quinolone utilization compared to some countries, was seen. Conclusions: Multiple interventions in the Republic of Srpska in recent years have resulted in one of the lowest utilization of antibiotics when compared with similar countries, acting as an exemplar to others. However, there are some concerns with current utilization of co-amoxiclav and azithromycin which are being addressed. This will be the subject of future research activities.

DNA methylation can mimic the effects of germline mutations in cancer predisposition genes. Recently, we identified twenty‐four heritable methylation marks associated with breast cancer risk. As breast and prostate cancer share genetic risk factors, including rare, high‐risk mutations (eg, in BRCA2), we hypothesized that some of these heritable methylation marks might also be associated with the risk of prostate cancer.