bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sport participation motives of young Brazilian judo athletes
Authors: Guedes Dartagnan Pinto , Missaka Marcelo Seiji
Published: April 2015

The objective of this study was to identify the motives for sport participation in a sample of young judo athletes according to sex, age, and training history. A total of 392 subjects aged 12 to 18 years old participated in the study. Portuguese version of the Participation Motivation Questionnaire was used to identify motives for sports participation. Boys reported giving significantly more importance to sports participation in terms of Competition and Skill Development, whereas girls presented significantly higher ratings for Teamwork and Friendship. Motivational factors related to Achievement/Status and Fun presented significantly higher average ratings in younger judo athletes, whereas average ratings of Competition significantly increased with increasing age. Average ratings related to Fitness, Competition and Skill Development were proportionally and significantly higher according to training experience and training volume. These results will contribute to establishing intervention programs designed to reduce sport dropout rates among young judo athletes.
Sensor systems for medical application based on hemoproteins and nanocomposite materials
Authors: Shumyantseva V.V. , Suprun E.V. , Bulko T.V. , Dobrinina O.V. , Archakov A.I.
Published: April 2015

Recent advances in nanotechnologies stimulate the development of sensor systems based on nanocomposite materials. This review discusses the prospects and challenges of sensors coupled with functionally important for medicine hemoproteins and nanoscale materials. Authors summarized their own experimental results and literature data on hemoprotein-based sensor systems. Mechanisms and the main function principles of electrochemical nanosensors are also discussed.
Non-enzymatic glycation of proteins: from diabetes to cancer
Authors: Ansari N.A. , Rasheed Z.
Published: April 2015

Incubation of proteins with glucose leads to their non-enzymatic glycation and formation of Amadori products known as an early glycation product. Oxidative cleavage of Amadori products is considered as a major route to advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) formation in vivo. Nonenzymatic glycation of proteins or Maillard reaction is increased in diabetes mellitus due to hyperglycemia and leads to several complications such as blindness, heart disease, nerve damage and kidney failure. Accumulation of the early and advanced glycation products in plasma and tissues of diabetic patients and causes production of autoantibodies against corresponding products. The advanced glycation products are also associated with other diseases like cancer. This review summarizes current knowledge of these stage specific glycated products as common and early diagnostic biomarkers for the associated diseases and the complications with the aim of a novel therapeutic target for the diseases.
Regulation of thyroid and pituitary function by bacterial lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Yaglova N.V. , Berezov T.T.
Published: April 2015

Activation of toll-like receptors-4 by bacterial lipopolysaccharide downregulates pituitary and thyroid function. Besides decrease of thyroid-stimulating hormone secretion lipopolysaccharide affects secretion in follicular thyroid cells directly. The endotoxin partialy activates and inhibits different phases of follicular thyrocytes' secretion. Lipopolysaccharide enhances thyroglobulin synthesis and exocytosis into follicular lumen and supresses its resorbtion.It results in sharp drop of blood thyroxine concentration without decrease of deiodinases-mediated thiroxine to triiodothyronine conversion. Stimulation of the lipopolysaccharide-pretreated thyroid gland with thyroid-stimulating hormone increases resorbtion of thyroglobulin and thyroid hormone production. Combined stimulation of the thyroid gland increases protein bound thyroxine and triiodothyronine serum concentration unlike only TSH stimulation resulting in increase of free thyroid hormone levels. It also prooves that binding capacity of thyroid hormone serum transport proteins during nonthyroidal illness syndrome remains normal.
Expression and catalytic properties of rat liver nadp-isocitrate dehydrogenase under normal conditions, after administration of tumor necrosis factor-α and at thioctic acid action
Authors: Tsvetikova L.N. , Popova T.N. , Rakhmanova T.I. , Iskusnykh I.Y.
Published: April 2015

Development of apoptosis is accompanied by a decrease in transcripts of NADP-isocitrate dehydrogenase (NADP-IDH, E.C. 1.1.1.42.), and also alterations of catalytic properties from the rat liver enzyme in comparison with control. Administration of thioctic acid is increased the level of expression towards normal values. Enzyme preparations NADP-IDH were obtained from rat liver at norm conditions, after introduction of tumor necrosis factor and thioctic acid action under apoptosis. Molecular weight of homogenous preparations of NADP-IDH purified from livers of control and experimental rats was 112±5,8 kDa, however Km values and pH-optimum changed in apoptosis. Regulation of NADP-IDH activity under effect of some intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid cycle also differed in these groups.
A novel vector for construction of cDNA library
Authors: Fedchenko V.I. , Kaloshin A.A. , Medvedev A.E.
Published: April 2015

A new original vector pEM-(dT)40(f+) has been prepared. It can be used for cDNA library construction from polyadenylated mRNA, isolated from various sources. The pGEM-(dT)40f(+) is initially transformed into single stranded and then into a linear form and its (dT)40 tail at 3'-end is used as the vector-primer for synthesis of the first strand cDNA. The use of a synthetic oligonucleotide complementary to the vector and recombinant DNA results in vector cyclization and synthesis of the second strand cDNA. This approach significantly simplifies cDNA library construction, it does not require PCR reaction (which can induce artifact mutations in cDNA sequences) and restrictase treatment.
Neuromediator systems in some brain regions of rats subjected to morphine intoxication
Authors: Lelevich S.V. , Novokshonov A.A.
Published: April 2015

The content of neuromediators and its metabolites in the cortex of cerebral hemispheres, in thalamus and brain stem was studied under chronic morphine intoxication (7-21 days). The morphine intake during 7-14 days was accompanied by changes of catecholamine system functioning, which was the most pronounced in the thalamus and the brain stem. These changes included increased secretion of dophamine and noradrenaline, their decrease in the brain tissue, and the increased content of their metabolites. The changes of serotonin and GABA content were less pronounced and included a decrease of serotonin level and the increase of the GABA content in different periods of narcotization.
Hplc determination of plasma/serum homocysteine and cysteine with uv detection and solid-phase extraction on a polymeric sorbent
Authors: Dutov A.A. , Nikitin D.A. , Fedotova A.A.
Published: April 2015

Isocratic HPLC determination of plasma/serum homocysteine and cysteine with separation on reversed-phase column and UV detection at 330 nm is proposed. The mobile phase consist of acetonitrile - 0.05 M citrate-phosphate buffer with pH 2.4 - isopropanol (15:85:1, v/v/v). Full separation of cysteine, cysteamine (IS), glutathione and homocysteine was achieved within less than 10 minutes. Reduction of thiols from disulfides was performed by 1,4-dithioerithreitol, and derivatization by with Ellman's reagent [5'5-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid)]. After that plasma/serum, containing derivatives of thiols, is cleared and concentrated on cartridge packed with 10 mg of hypercross-linked polystyrene (Purosep-200). Elution from cartridge is made with water-organic solvent (without evaporation and concentration, but without dilution), as well as waterless solvents (with evaporation and concentration). Simplicity, reproducibility in combination with high cleanliness of extracts and sufficient sensitivity (0.4 ng for homocysteine, 2 ng for glutathione and 0.2 ng for cysteine and cysteamine at a signal/noise ratio > 3), make this method suitable for routine clinical application.
Influence of α-lipoic acid on liver glutathione system of healthy and ehrlich ascites carcinoma transplanted mice
Authors: Kolesnichenko L.S. , Laletin V.S. , Kulinsky V.I.
Published: April 2015

Influence of α-lipoic acid (LA) on liver glutathione system of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) transplanted mice was studied. LA causes multidirectional influence on glutathione system of healthy mice. EAC transforms LA influence, strengthening prooxidative effects more expressed at introduction in early terms after inoculation of the tumor. The mechanism explaining realization of LA prooxidative effects as a result of interaction with glutathione system is suggested.
Glutathione-dependent enzymes and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase of blood in patients with lymphosarcoma (non-hodgkin's disease)
Authors: Gavriliuc L.A. , Corcimaru I.F. , Robu M.V. , Lisii L.T.
Published: April 2015

Activities of glutathione-dependent enzymes and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) were studied in blood of the patients with lymphosarcoma (LS). The activity of glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione dehydroascorbate reductase (GDAR), gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) and G6PDH in plasma, leucocytes, lymphocytes and erythrocytes of peripheral blood in 30 patients (42-56 years) with LS and in 20 healthy have been determined with spectrophotometric methods (Humalyzer 2000 DE). Leucocytes and lymphocytes were separated from blood using Boyum method. Spearmen method used for correlative analysis. The levels of enzymes activity and results of correlative analysis showed an imbalance of antioxidative system defense and metabolic disturbances in patients with LS. The strong functional interrelation was estimated only between GR and G6PDH in the patients' lymphocytes (r=+0,716; p<0.0005). Interrelation was found between the levels of activity of antioxidative enzymes and activity (stage) of pathologic process, this may be used as the additional biochemical test for differential diagnostics of LS and estimation of the cells proliferative activity.
Ace inhibitors - activators of kinin receptors
Authors: Kugaevskaya E.V. , Elisseeva Yu.E.
Published: April 2015

Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are widely used for treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The effects of ACE inhibitors on the human bradykinin receptors were investigated. The mode of action of ACE inhibitors is considered. There is evidence that ACE inhibitors exert effects on the vascular system that cannot be attributed simply to the inhibition of ACE activity and accumulation of locally produced bradykinin. ACE inhibitors augment bradykinin effects on receptors indirectly by inducing cross-talk between ACE and the B2 receptor when enzyme and receptor molecules are sterically close, possibly forming a heterodimer. ACE inhibitors activate B1 receptors directly and independently of ACE via the zink-binding consensus sequence HEXXH, which is present in B1, but not in B2 receptor. Particular structure of B2 and B1 are represented, as well as receptor amino acids coupled with the G-proteins. Activation of kinin receptors by ACE inhibitors leads to clinically beneficial effects of ACE inhibitors.
Studies of mutagenic activity of positively charged alkyl glycerolipids in ames test
Authors: Romanova S.G. , Belickii G.A. , Hitrovo I.A. , Serebrennikova G.A. , Shtil A.A.
Published: April 2015

Mutagenic activity of non-phosphorous cationic alkyl glycerolipid rac-N-{ 4-[(2-Methoxy- 3-octadecyloxy)propyl]oxycarbonylbutyl}-N,N-dimethyl-N-(2-hydroxyethyl) ammonium iodide was evaluated. According performed Ames assay results indicated on non-mutagenic properties tested compound. Resulting data open the possibility to carry out biological study in vivo for class of ether cationic glycerolipids and further applications as a potential agent of anticancer therapy.
Electrochemical sensors based on carbon nanotubes and their use in biomedical research.Part 2: sensors manufactured by dispersion of carbon nanotubes by means of polyethyleneimine, organic dyes, cyclodextrins, chitosan, proteins, room-temperature ionic liquids, gels, and thiols. Sensors manufactured by dispersion of carbon nanotubes by electropolymerization process. sensors manufactured by dispersion of carbon nanotubes by layer-by-layer deposition
Authors: Buzanovskii V.A.
Published: April 2015

Electrochemical sensors based on carbon nanotubes are widely distributed in biomedical researches. One group of these sensors contains the sensors manufactured by dispersion of carbon nanotubes on an electrode surface by means of polyethyleneimine, organic dyes, cyclodextrins, chitosan, proteins, room-temperature ionic liquids, gels, thiols, by electropolymerization process, and by layer-by-layer deposition. The development directions of such sensors are analyzed. The general information on manufacturing techniques of these sensors is submitted. The opportunities of these sensors for carrying out biomedical researches are demonstrated.
The effect of acute alcohol intoxication on some parameters of nitrogenous metabolism in rats with alloxan diabetes
Authors: Zharkova N.V. , Potapov P.P. , Stelmach A.Yu.
Published: April 2015

Acute alcohol intoxication in rats with alloxan diabetes is accompanied by the increase of urea and uric acid and by the decrease in free fatty acids in serum. In the liver of experimental animals the increase of activity of glutamate dehydrogenase, AMP deaminase, and tyrosine transaminase was found.
Liposome formulations of combretastatin a4 and 4-arylcoumarin analog prodrugs: antitumor effect in the mouse model of breast cancer
Authors: Moiseeva E.V. , Kuznetsova N.R. , Svirshchevskaya E.V. , Bovin N.V. , Sitnikov N.S. , Shavyrin A.S. , Beletskaya I.P. , Combes S. , Fedorov A.Yu. , Vodovozova E.L.
Published: April 2015

The antimitotic agent combretastatin A4 (СА-4) has been suggested as an antivascular agent for anticancer therapy relatively recently. To reduce systemic toxicity by means of administration in liposome formulations, in this study new lipophilic prodrugs, oleic derivatives of СА-4 and its 4-arylcoumarin analog (СА4-Ole and ArC-Ole, respectively), have been synthesized: Liposomes of 100 nm mean diameter prepared on the basis of egg phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylinositol from bakers yeast have been shown to include completely up to 10 mol. % of СА4-Ole, or 7 mol. % of ArC-Ole. Also, prodrug bearing liposomes decorated with tetrasaccharide selectin ligand Sialyl Lewis X (SiaLeX) have been constructed to achieve targeting to endothelium under neovascularization. The antitumor activity in vivo was studied in the model of slowly growing mouse breast cancer. Under the used dose (22 mg/kg) as well as the regimen of treatment (four injections, one per a week, starting from the appearance of palpable tumors) cytostatic CA-4 did not reveal any anticancer effect, and oppositely even stimulated tumor growth. Liposome formulations of CA4-Ole did not show such stimulation. However, to achieve pronounced antitumor effect, number of injections of liposomes should be apparently elevated. New antimitotic agent ArC revealed cytotoxic activity of only one tenth value obtained for CA-4 in vitro in the culture of human breast carcinoma cells. Nevertheless, in vivo in the mouse model of breast cancer this compound showed antitumor effect under double СА-4 equivalent dose. The results demonstrate availability of SiaLeX-liposomes loaded with ArC-Ole: this preparation began to inhibit tumor growth already after the second injection. It is necessary further to choose doses and regimens of administration both for ArC and liposome formulations bearing ArC-Ole.
Compensatory mechanisms to heal neuroplasticity impairment under Alzheiemer's disease neurodegeneration. I: The role of amyloid beta and its' precursor protein
Authors: Koudinova N.V. , Koudinov A.R. , Kezlya E.V. , Kozirev K.M. , Medvedev A.E. , Berezov T.T.
Published: April 2015

In-depth scholar literature analysis of Alzheimer's disease neurodegenerative features of amyloid beta protein neurochemistry modification and excessive phosphorylation of tau protein (and associated neuronal cytoskeleton rearrangements) are secondary phenomena. At early disease stage these neurobiochemical mechanisms are reversible and serve to heal an impairment of biophysical properties of neuronal membranes, neurotransmission, basic neuronal function and neuroplasticity, while preserving anatomical and functional brain fields. Aβ and tau could well serve to biochemically restore physico-chemical properties of neual membranes due to a role these proteins play in lipid metabolism. Under such scenario therapeutic block of aggregation and plaque formation of Aβ and inhibition of tau phosphorylation, as well as pharmaceutical modification of other secondary neurodegenerative features (such as a cascade of oxidative stress reactions) are unable to provide an effective cure of Alzheimer's disease and related pathologies of the Central and peripheral nervous systems, because they are not arraying primary pathagenetic cause. We review the role of Aβ in compensatory mechanisms of neuroplasticity restoration under normal physiological condition and Alzheimer's disease.
Cytochrome P450 system components and nitric oxide synthase activity in mouse liver under conditions of retinoid stores absence
Authors: Kopylchuk G.P. , Shmarakov I.A. , Buchkovska I.M. , Marchenko M.M. , Blaner W.S.
Published: April 2015

p-Hydroxylase and N-demethylase activities of cytochrome P450 system, NO-synthase activity and the intensity of nitric oxide and superoxide anion production in mitochondrial, postmicrosomal and microsomal cellular fractions were studied in mouse liver under conditions of retinoid stores absence.It is determined, that under conditions of retinoid stores absence the activation of NO-synthase is occurring with decreased p-hydroxylase activity of cytochrome P450 system. The results of the generation intensity analysis showed the level of NO and О2- in liver mitochondrial fraction of knock-out mice, and changes in NADPH-dependent О2- production in microsomal fraction of mouse liver cells.
Mass spectrometry detection of monomeric renalase in human urine
Authors: Fedchenko V.I. , Buneeva O.A. , Kopylov A.T. , Kaloshin A.A. , Axenova L.N. , Zgoda V.G. , Medvedev A.E.
Published: April 2015

Renalase is a recently discovered secretory protein, which is suggested to play a role (which still remains elusive) in regulation of blood pressure. Earlier it was purified from urine of healthy volunteers by means of ammonium sulfate fractionation and subsequent affinity chromatography (Xu et al. (2005) J. Clin. Invest., 115, 1275). The resultant purified preparation of renalase contained 2 proteins with molecular masses of 35 and 67-75 kDa. The authors believed that the latter represents a dimerization (aggregation) product of the 35 kDa protein. In this study we have detected relanase in urinary samples of 2 of 6 volunteers only after immunoaffinity enrichment of urinary samples subjected to ammonium sulfate precipitation. Electrophoresis of the purified preparation also demonstrated the presence of 2 proteins with molecular masses of 35 and 66 kDa, respectively. Mass spectrometry analysis of these proteins identified 35 and 66 kDa proteins as renalase and serum albumin, respectively. Thus, our results do not support suggestion on formation of renalase dimers and they indicate that urinary renalase excretion significantly varies in humans.
The potential role for sphingolipids in neuropathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Alessenko A.V.
Published: April 2015

The review discusses the functional role of sphingolipids in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Certain evidence exist that the imbalance of sphingolipids such as sphingomyelin, ceramide, sphingosine, sphingosine-1-phosphate and galactosylceramide in the brain of animals and humans, in the cerebrospinal fluid and blood plasma of patients with Alzheimer's disease play a crucial role in neuronal function by regulating growth, differentiation and cell death in CNS. Activation of sphingomyelinase, which leads to the accumulation of the proapoptotic agent, ceramide, can be considered as a new mechanism for AD and may be a prerequisite for the treatment of this disease by using drugs that inhibit sphingomyelinase activity. The role of sphingolipids as biomarkers for the diagnosis of the early stage of Alzheimer's disease and monitoring the effectiveness of treatment with new drugs is discussed.
Delta-sleep inducing peptide entrapment and release from polymer hydrogels based on modified polyvinyl alcohol
Authors: Sukhanova T.V. , Artyukhov A.A. , Prudchenko I.A. , Golunova A.C. , Semenikhina M.A. , Shtilman M.I. , Markvicheva E.A.
Published: April 2015

The aim of the study was to entrap delta-sleep inducing peptide (DSIP) in cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol)-based hydrogels of different structures and to evaluate peptide release kinetics from these hydrogels using an in vitro model. Isotropic and macroporous hydrogels on the basis of poly(vinyl alcohol) acrylic derivative (Acr-PVA) as well as macroporous hydogels containing epoxy groups which were synthesized by copolymerization of this monomer with glycidyl methacrylate. The isotropic hydrogels were fabricated at positive temperatures while the macroporous hydrogels (cryogels) were prepared at the temperatures below zero. The peptide was entrapped into macroporous modified PVA hydrogels by addition of a peptide solution on previously fabricated matrices, while into PVA-GMA hydrogels containing epoxy groups peptide immobilization was carried out by incubation of hydrogel matrices in the peptide solution. In the case of isotropic hydrogels the peptide was added into the polymer mixture at a hydrogel formation reaction. The peptide release kinetics was studied by incubation of hydrogels in PBS (pH 7.4), in physiological solution (0.9% NaCl) and in water. DSIP concentration in supernatants was determined by phase-reverse HPLC. DSIP release from the macroporous PVA hydrogel after 30 min incubation was 74, 70 и 64% in water, PBS and 0.9% NaCl, relatively, and it was completed in 3 hs. From the isotropic hydrogel the release neither peptide nor products of its degradation was not observed even after 48 hs of incubation. For freshly prepared hydrogel the release kinetics was as follows: 27 and 78% in 30 and 33 hs, relatively. In the case of the lyophilized hydrogel samples the peptide release was 63% in 30 min incubation while drying patterns at room temperature for 3 days resulted in significant peptide loss because its structure damage.
Influence of vibration-induced stress on functional-metabolic status of blood leukocytes
Authors: Dolgushin M.V. , Davydova N.S.
Published: April 2015

The chronic stress in albino rats caused by exposure to the whole-body vibration induced the significant changes in the functional-metabolic status of the blood cells. It involved the phagocytosis level and the lysosomal cationic proteins in the neutrophils, oxidative and hydrolytic processes in the neutrophils and lymphocytes. All the determined intracellular parameters revealed the differentiated response to stress as well as to the additive combined administration of the antioxidants (glycine and alpha-tocopherol acetate).
Anticancer activity of oxovanadium compounds
Authors: Abakumova O.Y. , Podobed O.V. , Belayeva N.F. , Tochilkin A.I.
Published: April 2015

Cytotoxic and antitumor activity of the biligand vanadyl derivative of L-malic acid (bis(L-malato)oxovanadium(IV) (VO(mal) ) was investigated in comparison with inorganic vanadium(IV) compound - vanadyl sulfate (VOSO ) and also with oxovanadium monocomplex with L-malic acid (VO(mal)) and vanadyl biscomplex with acetylacetonate. In this purpose the effect of vanadyl compounds on growth of normal human skin fibroblasts and tumor cells of different lines: mouse fibrosarcoma (L929), rat pheochromocytome (PC12), human liver carcinoma (HepG2), virus transformated mouse fibroblast (NIN 3T3), virus transformated cells of human kidney (293) were investigated. The results showed that VO(mal) was not toxic for normal human skin fibroblasts but considerably inhibited growth of cancer cells in culture. Cytotoxic antitumor effect of vanadium complexes was found to be dependent оn incubation time and concentration and on type of cells and nature of ligands of the central group of the complex (VO2+). These studies provide evidence that VO(mal) may be considered as a potential antitumor agent due to its low toxicity in non-tumor cells and significant anticancer activity.
Study of surface-active properties antivirials compound 1-boraadamantane for model monomoleculars phosphlipids layers
Authors: Kontarov N.A. , Pogarskaya I.V. , Balaev N.V. , Yuminova N.V.
Published: April 2015

The surface-active properties of 1-boraadamantane have been studied using model phospholipid monolayers. Results suggest that the increase in 1-boraadamantane concentrations from 10-7 to 10-6 M is accompanied by the increase of the area per phospholipid molecule. This decreases to frequency of lateral diffusion of phospholipids molecules, the potential difference and the angle of the phospholipid monolayer arrangement. These phenomena may lead to impossibility of interaction between the virus and cell membranes.
Molecular docking and 3D-QSAR on 16a,17a-cycloalkanoprogesterone analogues as progesterone receptor ligands
Authors: Fedyushkina I.V. , Skvortsov V.S. , Romero Reyes I.V. , Levina I.S.
Published: April 2015

A series of 42 steroid ligands was used to predict a binding affinity to progesterone receptor. The molecules were the derivatives of 16a,17a-cycloalkanoprogesterones. Different methods of prediction were used and analyzed such as CoMFA and artificial neural networks. The best result (Q2=0.91) was obtained for a combination of molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation and artificial neural networks. A predictive power of the model was validated by a group of 8 pentarans synthesized separately and tested in vitro (R2test=0.77). This model can be used to determine the affinity level of the ligand to progesterone receptor and accurate ranking of binding compounds.
Homocysteine peroxidase activity in rat blood plasma: stoichiometry and enzymatic character of the reaction
Authors: Razygraev A.V.
Published: April 2015

Recently it was shown that the presence of rat blood plasma (as well as of erythrocyte hemolysate) in the reaction mixture containing 43 mM Tris-HCl-buffer (pH 8.5), 0.29 mM EDTA, 19.2 mM sodium azide, 1 mM DL-homocysteine (Hcy), and 198 mM hydrogen peroxide (incubation at 37°C) results in a significant acceleration of the decrease in Hcy concentration caused by addition of H O . In this paper, we present data indicating that the observed activity is the homocysteine:H O -oxidoreductase (homocysteine peroxidase) activity. It has been found that the level of H O -dependent Hcy decrease observed in the presence of blood plasma corresponds to homocysteine:H O -oxidoreductase reaction stoichiometry of 2:1 (mole ratio). The activity observed belongs to the protein fraction isolated by saturation with ammonium sulfate to 50%; the specific activity in this protein fraction is significantly higher than that in the whole plasma. The results confirm the hypothesis that the reaction between Hcy and H O at the presence of plasma is catalyzed by the protein component of plasma and this is the homocysteine peroxidase reaction. This activity is not associated with serum albumin, which is known to function as thiol peroxidase, and probably belongs to extracellular glutathione peroxidase (Gpx3).
Mean platelet volume: interactions with platelet aggregation activity and glycoprotein IIb-IIIa and Ib expression levels
Authors: Khaspekova S.G. , Zyuryaev I.T. , Yakushkin V.V. , Naimushin Ya.A. , Sirotkina O.V. , Zaytseva N.O. , Ruda M.Ya. , Mazurov A.V.
Published: April 2015

Increased mean platelet volume (MPV) is an independent risk factor of thrombotic events in patients with cardiovascular diseases. Interactions of MPV with platelet aggregation activity and contents of glycoprotein (GP) IIb-IIIa (aIIb/b3 integrin, fibrinogen receptor) and GP Ib (von Willebrand factor receptor) were investigated in this study. Investigation was performed in a group of healthy volunteers (n = 38) and in a group of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). In patients blood was collected at days 1, 3-5 and 8-12 after ACS development. As an antiaggregant therapy all patients received acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, inhibitor of thromboxane A2 synthesis) and most of them – clopidogrel (ADP receptor antagonist) with the exception of part of the patients (n=44) at day 1 who had not taken clopidogrel before first blood collection. In volunteers platelet aggregation was stimulated by 1.25, 2.5, 5 and 20 M ADP, and in patients – by 5 and 20 M ADP. GP IIb-IIIa and GP Ib content on platelet surface was measured using 125I-labelled monoclonal antibodies. GP IIb-IIIa and GP Ib genetic polymorphisms were determined in ACS patients. In healthy donors significant correlations between MPV and aggregation levels were revealed at 1.25 and 2.5 M ADP (coefficients of correlation (r) - 0.396 and 0.373, p<0.05) and at 5 and 20 those interactions did not reach significant level (r - 0.279 and 0.205, p>0.05). Correlations between MPV and aggregation levels were observed at day 1 of ACS in a subgroup of patients who received ASA but had not started clopidogrel treatment (r - 0.526, p<0.01 and 0.368, p<0.05 for 5 and 20 M ADP respectively). Interactions between these parameters were not registered upon combined treatment with ASA and clopidogrel. Strong direct correlations between MPV and GP IIb-IIIa and GP Ib contents were detected in healthy donors and ACS patients (at all time points) – r from 0.439 to 0.647 (p£0.001 for all correlations). Genetic polymorphisms of GP IIb-IIIa (GP IIIa Leu33Pro) and GP Ib ((-5)T/C ( Kozak ) and Thr145Met) identified in ACS patients did not affect expression levels of corresponding glycoproteins. The data obtained indicated that increased MPV values correlate with increased platelet aggregation activity and enhanced GP IIb-IIIa and GP Ib expression.
Investigation of neuroprotective activity of apolipoprotein E peptide mimetic Cog1410 in transgenic lines of drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Latypova E.M. , Timoshenko S.I. , Kislik G.A. , Vitek M.P. , Schwarzman A.L. , Sarantseva S.V.
Published: April 2015

The neuroprotective activity of apolipoprotein E (apoE) peptide mimetic Cog1410, containing amino acid sequence of the receptor-binding domain apoE, has been investigated in transgenic lines of Drosophila melanogaster expressing human APP and beta-secretase. Expression of two transgenes caused neuropathological processes attributed to Alzheimer's disease: neurodegeneration, cognitive abnormality and amyloid deposits formation in brain. It was shown that Cog 1410 reduces neurodegeneration in brain of transgenic flies and improves cognitive functions (odor recognition). These data suggest that Cog1410 is a potential neuroprotector that can be used in AD treatment.
How do tree structure and old age affect growth potential of California redwoods?
Authors: Sillett Stephen C. , Van Pelt Robert , Carroll Allyson L. , Kramer Russell D. , Ambrose Anthony R. , Trask D'Arcy
Published: April 2015

As the only species exceeding 90 m in height and 2000 years of age,Sequoia sempervirensandSequoiadendron giganteumprovide the optimal platform upon which to examine interactions among tree structure, age, and growth. We climbed 140 trees in old‐growth redwood forests across California, USA, spanning a broad range of sizes and including the tallest, largest, and oldest known living individuals (i.e., 115.86 vs. 96.29 m tall, 424 vs. 582 Mg aboveground dry mass, and 2510 vs. 3240 years old forSequoiaandSequoiadendron, respectively). We used a combination of direct measurements, hierarchical sampling, and dendrochronology to quantify tree structure and annual growth increments through old age. We also developed equations to predict aboveground attributes of standing redwoods via ground‐based measurements. Compared toSequoia,Sequoiadendrondevelops thicker bark on lower trunks, provisions leaves with more sapwood, and delays heartwood production throughout the crown. Main trunk wood volume growth (up to 1.6 vs. 0.9 m3/yr), aboveground biomass growth (up to 0.77 vs. 0.45 Mg/yr), and aboveground growth efficiency (0.55 ± 0.04 vs. 0.22 ± 0.01 kg annual growth per kg leaves, mean ± SE) are all higher inSequoia. Two independent dimensions of structure—size and aboveground vigor—are the strongest predictors of tree‐level productivity in both species. A third dimension, relative trunk size, is a significant predictor of growth inSequoiasuch that trees with relatively large main trunks compared to their crowns produce more wood annually. Similar‐size trees grow at similar rates regardless of latitude or elevation in tall forests of each species. Recent annual growth increments are higher than in the past for the majority of trees, and old trees are just as responsive to environmental changes as young trees. Negative growth–age relationships in previous centuries and positive growth–age relationships in recent decades reflect sampling bias and shifting disturbance regimes. Overall, we find little (if any) evidence for negative effects of old age on tree‐level productivity in either species. Except for recovery periods following temporary reductions in crown size, annual increments of wood volume and biomass growth increase as redwoods enlarge with age until extrinsic forces cause tree death.
Nitrogen Rate, Cover Crop, and Tillage Practice Alter Soil Chemical Properties
Authors: Ritchey Edwin L. , Tyler Donald D. , Essington Michael E. , Mullen Michael D. , Saxton Arnold M.
Published: April 2015

Long‐term management practices can influence many physical and chemical soil properties. This study investigated the influence of 14 yr of continuous cotton (Gossypium hirsutumL.) management systems on soil pH, soil organic C (SOC), and exchangeable cations. Management practices consisted of varying N rate, tillage (no‐tillage [NT] or disk tillage [DT]), and cover crop on a Lexington silt loam soil (Ultic Hapludalf) in the absence of lime additions. Lower soil pH was present in NT, hairy vetch (Vicia villosaL.) cover treatments and with increasing N rate but similar between 0‐ to 7.5‐ and 0‐ to 15‐cm sample depths. Soil pH decreased between 0.23 to 0.37 units for each 34 kg N ha−1added and 0.46 units with hairy vetch cover. Hairy vetch cover and 101 kg N ha−1resulted in pH <5 and increased SOC and exchangeable Mn. Exchangeable Al values were >0.30 cmolckg−1with 101 kg N ha−1and hairy vetch cover and with 101 kg N ha−1under NT, but they were ≤0.13 cmolckg−1for all other treatments. Exchangeable Al increased at pH <5 for NT with hairy vetch cover, while changes were insignificant for all other treatments. The hairy vetch cover contributed acidity equivalent to 42 to 68 kg N ha−1as NH4NO3. Although stratification of SOC occurred under NT, no other measured properties varied with depth in NT treatments, and different recommendations are not necessary for NT crop production. Appropriate N credits from hairy vetch cover will reduce excessive acidity, production costs, and potential environmental concerns.
Assessing the Psychometric Properties of an Activity Pacing Questionnaire for Chronic Pain and Fatigue
Authors: Antcliff Deborah , Campbell Malcolm , Woby Steve , Keeley Philip
Published: April 2015

Background

Therapists frequently advise the use of activity pacing as a coping strategy to manage long-term conditions (eg, chronic low back pain, chronic widespread pain, chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis). However, activity pacing has not been clearly operationalized, and there is a paucity of empirical evidence regarding pacing. This paucity of evidence may be partly due to the absence of a widely used pacing scale. To address the limitations of existing pacing scales, the 38-item Activity Pacing Questionnaire (APQ-38) was previously developed using the Delphi technique.

Objective

The aims of this study were: (1) to explore the psychometric properties of the APQ-38, (2) to identify underlying pacing themes, and (3) to assess the reliability and validity of the scale.

Design

This was a cross-sectional questionnaire study.

Methods

Three hundred eleven adult patients with chronic pain or fatigue participated, of whom 69 completed the test-retest analysis. Data obtained for the APQ-38 were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis, internal and test-retest reliability, and validity against 2 existing pacing subscales and validated measures of pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, avoidance, and mental and physical function.

Results

Following factor analysis, 12 items were removed from the APQ-38, and 5 themes of pacing were identified in the resulting 26-item Activity Pacing Questionnaire (APQ-26): activity adjustment, activity consistency, activity progression, activity planning, and activity acceptance. These themes demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach α=.72–.92), test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient=.50–.78, P≤.001), and construct validity. Activity adjustment, activity progression, and activity acceptance correlated with worsened symptoms; activity consistency correlated with improved symptoms; and activity planning correlated with both improved and worsened symptoms.

Limitations

Data were collected from self-report questionnaires only.

Conclusions

Developed to be widely used across a heterogeneous group of patients with chronic pain or fatigue, the APQ-26 is multifaceted and demonstrates reliability and validity. Further study will explore the effects of pacing on patients' symptoms to guide therapists toward advising pacing themes with empirical benefits.
Rethinking Hospital-Associated Deconditioning: Proposed Paradigm Shift
Authors: Falvey Jason R. , Mangione Kathleen K. , Stevens-Lapsley Jennifer E.
Published: April 2015

Physical therapists often treat older adults with marked deficits in physical function secondary to an acute hospitalization. These deficits are often collectively defined as hospital-associated deconditioning (HAD). However, there is a paucity of evidence that objectively demonstrates the efficacy of physical therapy for older adults with HAD. Older adults with HAD represent a highly variable and complex population and thus may be difficult to study and develop effective interventions for using our current rehabilitation strategies. This perspective article outlines an innovative framework to operationalize and treat older adults with HAD. This framework may help therapists apply emerging exercise strategies to this population and facilitate additional research to support the total value of physical therapy for older adults in postacute care settings—with value measured not only by improvements in physical performance but perhaps also by reduced rates of disability development, rehospitalization, and institutionalization.
Ethnomedicinal survey of some plants used for the treatment of diabetes in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Ofuegbe OS , Adedapo AA
Published: April 2015

Objectives: A comprehensive survey with the aim of documenting traditional medicinal practices was carried out in targeted areas of Ibadan, Nigeria in order to inventory plants used by traditional healers in the area for the management of diabetes. Materials and Methods: Open-ended informal interviews were administered during series of repeated visits to the respondents consisting majorly the traditional medical practitioners (TMPs) and herb sellers. Some traditional healers who know and use medicinal plants for treating diabetes mellitus were interviewed. The inventory contains scientifi c, vernacular, common names of the plants used and methods of preparation. Results: Twenty seven plants commonly used by traditional healers in the region were identifi ed. These plants were found to be very important and useful in the treatment of diabetes based on their frequency of occurrence in the recipes obtained. Herbal remedies were either prepared from dried or freshly collected plants while traditional solvent of choice included water, lime, local gin and aqueous extract from fermented maize. Decoction and pulverization were the main methods of preparation while mode of administration varies within 1 to 3 times daily. Survey revealed that leaves form the major part of plants for herbal preparations. Residents in the study area fi nd traditional medicine cheaper as compared to orthodox medicine. Conclusion: This review focuses on the various plants that have been reported to be effective in the treatment of diabetes. The survey shows that plants from the Rubiaceae, Labiataceae, Meliaceae, Hypoxidaceae and Cucurbitaceae families are commonly used by traditional healers in Ibadan for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v6i5.10480Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.6(5) 2015 36-40
Large optic disc melanocytoma: A rare entity
Authors: Singh Priti , Rajput Devendra Partap Singh , Gupta S.B. , Kumar Rashmi
Published: April 2015

Optic disc melanocytoma is a deeply pigmented variant of benign melanocytic nevus thathas been confused with malignant melanoma. Optic disc melanocytomas are locally invasivebut are not known to undergo transformation into malignant melanoma. We present anunusual case of a melanocytoma of the optic disc that is a coincidental fi nding on routinefundus examination even though the size of the melanocytoma is quiet large around 2.5 DD(3.7 mm) in size (while usually mean tumour diameter is 2 mm only) Follow up should remainthe primary approach in the management of the patients with optic nerve melanocytomasas they are benign, as previously advocated by Zimmerman. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v6i5.11560 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.6(5) 2015 78-81
Ear diseases pattern and hearing impairment in the Eastern Nepal- A study in a combined eye and ear set up
Authors: Thakur Sanjeev Kumar , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Mahato Bindeshwar , Singh Anand
Published: April 2015

Background: This is a prevalence study of ear diseases and hearing impairment done in acombined eye and ear set up of Biratnagar Eye Hospital. This study was conducted in theSunsari and Morang districts of Nepal. Its aim is to fi nd out the ear disease and hearingimpairment prevalent in the community.Materials and Methods: A total of 2259 people who visited eyecamps were screened for ear diseases. Patients were examined by the eye and ear assistantsunder supervision of otolaryngologist. A head mirror, an otoscope, an aural syringe, kidneytrays and light source and a set of tuning forks (512 and 256 Hz) were used to assessthe ear diseases and hearing loss.Results: A total of 1094 patients presented with eardiseases. Males were more than females [608(55.42%) vs. 486(44.57%)]. Children up toand below 15 years were 386 (35.28%). The frequency of ear diseases were as follows:Impacted wax- 319 (29.15%), chronic suppurative otitis media mucosal type - 307(28.06%),otomycosis - 66 (6.03%), furunculosis/otitis externa - 46 (4.29%), Acute suppurative otitismedia - 46 (4.2%), tubal catarrhal - 34(3.1%), otitis media with effusion - 24 (2.19%),perichondritis - 21(1.91%), Unsafe otitis media - 14(1.27%), Foreign body in theear - 4 (0.36%) cases, Postraumatic perforation of tympanic membrane - 2 (0.18%), deafand mute - 12 (1.09%). presbyacusis and other sensorineural hearing loss- 199(18.19%).The point prevalence of otitis media was 17.3% (391) people. Hearing impairment was64.99 %(635 out of 977 patients above 5 years).Conclusion: Ear diseases and hearingimpairment are very common in Sunsari and Morang districts of Nepal demanding immediatetreatment.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v6i5.11621 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.6(5) 2015 51-55
A retrospective analysis of variability of clinical presentations and brain imaging findings in children with neurocysticercosis in rural population of West Bengal
Authors: Mondal Monojit , Biswas Biswajit , Roy Atanu , Laha Sumanta , Das Rajib , Ari Abhijit , Ghosh Taraknath , Som Sabyasachi , Konar Mithun , Kumar Prashanth , Barik Kanai Lal , Nayek Kaustav , Datta Asok Kumar
Published: April 2015

Background: Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a common, widely prevalent parasitic infestation of the central nervous system in children of developing countries leading to neurological morbidities. Objectives: To study the variability of initial clinical presentations and brain imaging findings in children with NCC in the rural population of West Bengal. Methods: A retrospective analysis was done in the Department of Pediatric Medicine, Burdwan Medical College, Burdwan, India from August 2011 to August 2013. Results: Out of 952 admitted children with seizure, 113 children were diagnosed as having NCC (11.9%). Out of them, 62 (54.9%) were boys and 51 (45.1%) were girls. The age of presentation varied from 3 years to 12 years, with mean age 9.4 years. The commonest age of presentation was between 10 to 12 years (n=62; 54.9%). The maximum number of patients were from Burdwan district (n=72; 63.7%) followed by Birbhum (n=25; 22.1%). The commonest initial presentation with seizure (n=93; 82.3 %); partial seizure were present in 76 patients (81.7%). On brain imaging study, the commonest location of lesions was found in the parietal region (n=69; 61.1 %), the right parietal region being more common. Single lesions were found in 102 patients(90.3%). Conclusion: NCC is a major cause of neurological morbidity in children of developing nations and it should be suspected in any children presenting with a first episode of afebrile partial seizure. A screening brain imaging should be performed earlier to prevent undue mortality and morbidity.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v6i5.11628 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.6(5) 2015 31-35
Self-medication trend among the urban elderly - a cross-sectional, observational study
Authors: Biswas Arunava , Sen Sukanta , Pal Agnik , Das Joydip , Das Suvajit , Tripathi Santanu Kumar
Published: April 2015

Objective: To describe and analyze the demographic and pharmacological characteristics ofself-medication trends among a geriatric urban population in a community.Materials and Methods: Thisstructured interview-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted among elderly subjectsof either sex in an urban community, who visited two pre-identifi ed, retail pharmacies in asub-urban locality, for procuring sundry medicinal products of their choice, without a validprescription. Institutional ethics approval was duly obtained. Respondents (n=108) readilyshared the information as sought regarding the encounter. The data were captured bytrained fi eld staff in a pre-designed data sheet, maintaining full confi dentiality.Results: The subjects (n=108) were predominantly (64.81%) male, with an average age of 65.95 years.The subjects mostly retired from job. Only 21.29% of them asked for particular brands,whereas just 5.55% subjects asked for a generic product. Majority of the subjects (73.14%)sought for medical help and received it from the dispenser at the counter. Antibiotics, onmost occasions, were dispensed for inappropriate indication and duration. On an average,the cost of the medicines procured in a single encounter by the employed and unemployedwere Rs 51.86 and Rs 21.86 respectively.Conclusion: Self-medication trends in elderly area disturbing problem that needs to be carefully addressed. Pilot study such as the presentone is easy to carry out, and can rapidly yield information about the true nature of selfmedication trends among the elderly. This can help in designing effective and appropriatelytargeted interventions in the future.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v6i5.11725 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.6(5) 2015 66-68