bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pole-weapons in the Sagas of Icelanders: a comparison of literary and archaeological sources
Authors: Orkisz Jan H.
Published: May 2016

The Icelandic sagas are a major source of information on the Vikings and their fighting prowess. In these stories, several mysterious pole-weapons appear, which are often called “halberds”, for lack of a better word. In order to better identify what these weapons could have been, and to provide a better understanding of how the sagas relate to the Viking-age events they describe, we confront textual and archaeological evidence for several of these weapons (the höggspjót, the atgeirr, the kesja, the krókspjót, the bryntroll and the fleinn), keeping in mind the contextualisation of their appearances in sagas. The description of the use of each weapon allows to pick several candidates likely to correspond to the studied word. Without a perfect knowledge of what context the authors of the sagas wanted to describe, it appears to be impossible to give a final answer. However, we show that some specific types of spears are good candidates for some of the studied weapons.
Cross-cultural adaptation of the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (DCDQ’07) for the population of Polish children
Authors: Nowak Agata
Published: May 2016

Study aim: The purpose of this article is to present the cultural adaptation of the DCDQ’07 (Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire) as one of the popular and most frequently-used diagnostic instruments for diagnosing DCD in school-age children.

Material and method: The procedure for translating and evaluating the selected psychometric parameters of the DCDQ has been conducted in compliance with the guidelines for the procedure [4]. The study involved 152 parents of school-age children; the control group included 32 children. Additionally, a group of 75 children was tested with the KTK test. To assess the test–retest reliability, the group of 50 parents was tested twice with the DCDQ at an interval of 14 days.

Results: The study proved that the DCDQ is an accurate and reliable instrument for screening DCD in Polish children. The high value of all of the analysed psychometric parameters is evidenced by the following: a sensitivity of 0.75, a specificity of 0.63 and a test-retest reliability of 0.93. Internal consistency is also satisfactory and amounts to 0.92. The study also determined that the score of the DCDQ depends on the gender of the tested child, and not on his/her age.

Conclusions: According to the research, DCDQ is a useful instrument that allows for the screening of DCD in school-age children. The Polish version of the questionnaire is definitely going to fill in the gap among diagnostic instruments and will allow for further development of research on the epidemiology of DCD.
Influence of a nine-day alpine ski training programme on the postural stability of people with different levels of skills
Authors: Staniszewski Michał , Zybko Przemysław , Wiszomirska Ida
Published: May 2016

Study aim: In alpine skiing, balance is one of the key elements that determine the effectiveness of the ride. Because of ski boots, the foot and ankle joint complex is excluded from the process of maintaining the stability of the body. The aim of the study was to determine to what extent a few days of skiing activities and the level of technical skills affect the skiers’ level of postural stability.

Material and methods: The study involved 10 beginner (20.7 ± 1.1 years, 76.4 ± 8.7 kg, 184.4 ± 6.1 cm) and 10 advanced (20.5 ± 0.5 years, 80.5 ± 13.7 kg, 184.5 ± 9.5 cm) skiers, who participated in a nine-day ski training camp. Measurements of the postural stability were taken on the first and last days of the camp, on an AccuSway (AMTI, USA) stabilometric platform.

Results: In both groups, a significant (p < 0.05) improvement in stability was observed after the training camp only while standing in ski boots. While standing on two feet, the participants were more stable barefoot (p < 0.05), and when standing on one foot they were more stable in the ski boot trial (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Skiing had a positive effect on the postural stability only in measurement conditions that were similar to those in which this stability was practiced, i.e. in measurements involving ski boots. The restriction of mobility within the ankle joint significantly influenced the training-induced changes in the postural stability of both beginner and advanced alpine skiers.
Blood ammonia and lactate responses to incremental exercise
in highly-trained male sprinters and triathletes
Authors: Kantanista Adam , Kusy Krzysztof , Zarębska Ewa , Włodarczyk Michał , Ciekot-Sołtysiak Monika , Zieliński Jacek
Published: May 2016

Study aim: To compare the blood ammonia and lactate concentrations in sprinters and triathletes during an incremental treadmill exercise test and in the 30 minutes of recovery.
Material and methods: The study included 10 male sprinters and 14 male triathletes who compete at the national and international level. A treadmill test until exhaustion was administered. Blood samples for ammonia and lactate were obtained when the athletes were at rest, during and immediately after exercise, and between 5 and 30 min after exercise.

Results: The ammonia concentration and time course were similar in the sprinters and triathletes (F = 1.81, p ≥ 0.05, η2 = 0.08). An exercise-related increase in blood ammonia was almost linear, regardless of the exercise intensity. In the case of lactate, the interactions between the concentrations measured in the sprinters and triathletes were statistically significant (F = 5.78, p ≤ 0.001, η2 = 0.21). Post-hoc tests revealed that the lactate concentrations differed significantly between the sprinters and triathletes in the 18th min (p ≤ 0.01) and the 21st min (p ≤ 0.001) of the exercise test. The blood lactate increased in a nonlinear manner (slowly at lower intensities and rapidly at higher intensities). During the 30 min recovery period, both the ammonia and lactate levels decreased linearly. However, in the sprinters, the peak values were maintained in the first stage of recovery (5 min post-exercise).

Conclusions: The study showed that the blood ammonia concentration may be a useful marker of exercise-related metabolic responses in sprint-trained as well as in endurance-trained competitive athletes. Blood ammonia levels were more intensity-sensitive across the whole intensity range during the incremental exercise when compared to the blood lactate levels.
Leg stiffness and potential energy in the countermovement phase
and the CMJ jump height
Authors: Struzik Artur , Zawadzki Jerzy , Rokita Andrzej
Published: May 2016

Study aim: The elastic potential energy accumulated in the musculotendinous units during the countermovement phase of a jump adds up to the energy supplied by the contracting muscles used in the take-off phase. Consequently, the total mechanical energy used during the jump may reach higher values. Stiffness represents a quantitative measure of a body’s elastic properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish the relationship between leg stiffness and the countermovement jump height.

Material and methods: 24 basketball players from the II Division participated in the study. The measurements employed a Kistler force plate and a BTS SMART system for the motion analysis. Each study participant performed three countermovement jumps with arm swings. Leg stiffness in the countermovement phase was determined from the slope of the ground reaction forces curve, with respect to the coexisting height of the greater trochanter of the femur. The decline in the gravitational potential energy of the centre of mass during the countermovement phase is partially accumulated in the form of potential elastic energy through the stretched musculotendinous units, and consequently contributes to the jump height.

Results: We found a statistically significant relationship between leg stiffness and a decline in the potential energy during the countermovement phase. The relationship between leg stiffness and the jump height was not statistically significant.

Conclusions: The distribution of measurements may suggest the presence of local maximums, with their locations representing a value of leg stiffness that allows for high values of changes in the potential energy and the jump height to be obtained. Therefore, the presence of a specific value for leg stiffness that would be the most favourable for the accumulation of potential elastic energy is likely. However, this study cannot unequivocally confirm this fact, and the confirmation of the above statement will require further experimentation.
Strategies of coping with stress and the sport results of alpine skiers
and tennis players
Authors: Knittel Michał , Guszkowska Monika
Published: May 2016

Study aim: The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between strategies of coping with stress caused by participating in sport competitions and the results of those competitions, as well as to differentiate the applied coping strategies according to the practiced sport discipline (tennis and alpine skiing).

Material and methods: The study encompassed 83 university students (39 women and 44 men) who were participating in the Polish University Championships in tennis (n = 32) and alpine skiing (n = 51). The research was based on the Coping Inventory for Competitive Sports (CICS) questionnaire and was adapted to Polish conditions by the authors of this study. The results achieved during the competition were also recorded during the study.

Results: Possibly due to the nature of their sport, the tennis players used coping actions to a greater extent than the alpine skiers, regardless of the nature of the action. The application of task-focused strategies and the lower use of emotion-focused and avoidance strategies allowed the athletes to achieve higher results during the competition.

Conclusions: Task-focused strategies should be developed in order to improve the competitive results of athletes. Taking the situational nature of the coping strategies into consideration, coping strategies can be designed and modified to improve the achieved results.
The contribution of paraoxonase 1 and myeloperoxidase
to HDL-cholesterol functionality
Authors: Malara Marzena , Kęska Anna , Lutosławska Grażyna
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study was to analyse the scientific evidence concerning the effects of two enzymes – paraoxonase 1 and myeloperoxidase – on the functions of HDL-cholesterol. It is well documented that disturbed circulating lipoproteins (a high total and high LDL-cholesterol, and low HDL-cholesterol) bring about atherosclerosis and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) which is recognised as the main cause of death all around the world. In consequence, numerous studies have focused on procedures which will improve the plasma lipoproteins profile by decreasing the total cholesterol and the LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and increasing the HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C). However, the anti-atherogenic role of HDL-C has been challenged in studies showing that genetically elevated HDL-cholesterol does not offer protection against CVD. Moreover, it has been found that raising the circulating HDL-cholesterol fails to reduce atherosclerosis. The doubts concerning the protective role of HDL-C have been supported by in vitro studies which indicate that the HDL-C from patients with atherosclerosis does not have a protective action, but does stimulate inflammation and free radical synthesis. The above data suggests that HDL-C, commonly recognised as protective against atherosclerosis, in some circumstances becomes pro-atherogenic, and is thus dysfunctional. Our review focuses on two enzymes – paraoxonase 1 (PON1) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) – which markedly affect the properties of HDL-C and contribute to its anti – or pro-atherogenic activity. Moreover, the effects of the diet and physical activity on PON1 and MPO are summarised with respect to the HDL-C functionality.
Impact of a social media exercise service on individuals and employees
Authors: Santtila Matti , Grönqvist Kalle , Räisänen Jussi , Kyröläinen Heikki
Published: May 2016

Study aim: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the impact of a social media exercise platform (HeiaHeia, Helsinki,
Finland) on the level of physical activity, physical fitness, wellbeing and body weight of the service users.
Material and methods: The subject group consisted of 2862 individuals who voluntarily participated in a web survey. Their
age, gender, body mass index, physical fitness level and activity information were self-reported.

Results: Most of the service users (78.1%) exercised more than three times a week. About 75% of the users reported that they
were in good or excellent physical fitness, while about 50% were overweight. More than half (64.6%) of the service users
reported that they had perceived an increase in their level of physical activity; and 46.4% of them reported that they had perceived
an advance in their physical fitness after using the social media service. In addition, 54.0% of the users perceived an
increase in their wellbeing. Every fifth (21.3%) user reported a decreased body weight after using the service. Those users with
lower levels of physical fitness, lower physical activity and who were overweight were more likely to report that the use of the
present service was beneficial. In total, about 75% of the service users reported at least one benefit after using the service.

Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that the use of the social media exercise service can lead to an enhanced perceived
level of physical activity, fitness and wellbeing. It also impacts positively on the users’ body weight. Thus, the present social
media service can be recommended for use, especially for overweight, unfit and sedentary customers.
The clear and dark sides of water: influence on the coiled coil folding domain
Authors: Vajda Tamás , Perczel András
Published: May 2016

The essential role of water in extra- and intracellular coiled coil structures of proteins is critically evaluated, and the different protein types incorporating coiled coil units are overviewed. The following subjects are discussed: i) influence of water on the formation and degradation of the coiled coil domain together with the stability of this conformer type; ii) the water’s paradox iii) design of coiled coil motifs and iv) expert opinion and outlook is presented. The clear and dark sides refer to the positive and negative aspects of the water molecule, as it may enhance or inhibit a given folding event. This duplicity can be symbolized by the Roman ‘Janus-face’ which means that water may facilitate and stimulate coiled coil structure formation, however, it may contribute to the fatal processes of oligomerization and amyloidosis of the very same polypeptide chain.
Recent advances in the characterization of Crl, the unconventional activator of the stress sigma factor σS/RpoS
Authors: Cavaliere Paola , Norel Françoise
Published: May 2016

The bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP) holoenzyme is a multisubunit core enzyme associated with a σ factor that is required for promoter-specific transcription initiation. Besides a primary σ responsible for most of the gene expression during active growth, bacteria contain alternative σ factors that control adaptive responses. A recurring strategy in the control of σ factor activity is their sequestration by anti-sigma factors that occlude the RNAP binding determinants, reducing their activity. In contrast, the unconventional transcription factor Crl binds specifically to the alternative σ factor σS/RpoS, and favors its association with the core RNAP, thereby increasing its activity. σS is the master regulator of the general stress response that protects many Gram-negative bacteria from several harmful environmental conditions. It is also required for biofilm formation and virulence of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. In this report, we discuss current knowledge on the regulation and function of Crl in Salmonella and Escherichia coli, two bacterial species in which Crl has been studied. We review recent advances in the structural characterization of the Crl-σS interaction that have led to a better understanding of this unusual mechanism of σ regulation.
Plasma miR-21 and miR-31 as Predictive Biomarkers for Evaluation of Therapeutic Efficacy in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Daneberga Zanda , Broka Elza , Kalniete Dagnija , Nakazawa-Miklasevica Miki , Ustinova Monta , Skuja Elina , Purkalne Gunta , Miklasevics Edvins
Published: May 2016

Introduction. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. Evaluation of patient response to the applied therapy regime is still challenging. Routine laboratory tests during follow-up do not provide necessary information on therapy efficacy. To improve life expectancy and quality of life for patient with CRC ongoing researches is concentrated to discovering new, reliable biomarkers which could contribute to define patients prognosis and choice of therapy. One of topical research field for searching new biomarkers is mi-RNS.

Aim of the study. The aim of this study was to analyze relative expression changes of miR-21 and miR-31 as potential biomarkers for evaluation of therapy efficacy in mCRC.

Material and methods. In the present study seven patients with mCRC diagnosis were included. After surgery all patients received first line therapy with oxaliplatin. Blood samples for present study were collected every 2-3 weeks. Relative expression of miR-31 and miR-21 assessed with real time PCR. Data analysis carried out by delta delta Ct (ΔΔCt) algorithm. Correlation analysis was performed by R programme ver. 3.1.2 using Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results. Our results in the correlation analysis for CEA serum level and relative expression level of miR-21 and miR-31 did not confirm significant correlation. MiR-31 showed increased expression soon after administration of therapy with a drop of relative expression closer to the CDP I. Acquired results revealed trend of increase in relative expression of miR-21 in PFS II compared to PFS I. Correlation analysis for miR-31 and miR-21 did not reach statistical reliability.

Conclusions. The relative expression alteration pattern of miR-31 and miR-21 in plasma during the therapy is promising biomarker for evaluation of therapy efficacy. These findings need to be validated in large cohort sample set.
Chromosomal Aberration in Colorectal Cancer Family
Authors: Miklasevics Edvins , Kupila Mikko , Kalniete Dagnija , Eglite Inese , Berzina Dace , Ustinova Monta , Purkalne Gunta , Daneberga Zanda
Published: May 2016

Introduction. Lynch syndrome, previously more commonly known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer, is a hereditary cancer syndrome with an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. Usually it is caused by mutations the MMR genes. In 20 - 25% of cases patients are not found to have mutations in any of these genes. Chromosomal aberrations as a cause of the Lynch syndrome were examined in this study.

Aim of the study. To identify chromosomal aberrations which may lead to colorectal cancer.

Material and methods. Twelve patients, corresponding to either Amsterdam I/II criteria or Bethesda guidelines, which have been tested negative for mutations in Lynch genes have been karyotyped were karyotyped with SNP array chips, in order to determine if they had potentially heritable chromosomal aberrations which could be responsible for increased risk of malignancy.

Results. One patient with a 14.7Mbp duplication framed by small deletions was chosen to be the most likely patient to suffer from an inherited carcinogenic chromosomal aberration. The preceding deletion was found to contain the coding region of BRE, encoding a component of the BRCA1-A complex; we believe that this deletion is the most carcinogenic component of the aberration and likely responsible for Lynch syndrome in this case. The larger duplication furthermore contained the coding regions for 83 genes, some of which have been shown to promote malignant disease when overexpressed.

Conclusion. Because of the clinically grossly tolerable nature of the aberration it is possible that it was vertically transmitted and contributed to the onset of colorectal cancer in the patient and his mother and maternal aunt.
Clinical Relevance of Haematologic Parameters in Predicting the Malignant Potential of Suspicious Renal Masses
Authors: Vaivode Ieva , Baltina Dace , Lietuvietis Vilnis , Jakubovskis Maris , Erts Renars , Engele Ludmila , Sperga Maris , Vitenberga Zane , Donina Simona
Published: May 2016

Introduction. The expanded use of imaging technology has led to improvements in the early diagnosis of kidney cancer. However, providing correct diagnoses regarding the malignant potential of small renal lesions remains problematic for clinicians. In addition to imaging, pre-operative investigations usually include a complete blood count and biochemistry tests.

Aim of the study. To evaluate whether the pre-operative blood cell count, cell ratios, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) can be helpful in predicting the malignancy of visually suspicious renal masses prior to surgery.

Material and methods. Data on pre-operative blood tests were retrospectively collected from 84 cases of stage I renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and 55 benign lesions from patients hospitalized after a radiological finding of renal cancer and following nephrectomy. The predictive ability of various blood tests for malignant potential was analysed using the following statistical methods: the Mann- Whitney U test, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and binary logistic regression.

Results. The mean CRP levels, monocyte (Mo) counts, platelet (PLT) counts and monocyte/lymphocyte ratios (MLRs) varied significantly between the patients with stage I RCC and patients that had benign renal lesions with a small effect size. Among these tests, the highest AUCs were displayed by CRP [0.704, 95% confidence interval: 0.567 - 0.807] and MLR [0.736, 0.612 - 0.861]. Based on the ROC curves, optimal cut-off values of 0.26 for MLR and 1.75 mg/L for CRO were selected. A binary logistic regression was used to determine if the combination of CRP and MLR could be used to predict whether patients with renal lesions had cancer resulting in increase of area under the curve (AUC) to 0.798 [0.690 -0.905].

Conclusions. In cases of diagnostic difficulties observing small renal lesions radiologically, the combination of elevated CRP levels and MLRs above 0.26 may help to confirm the presence of renal cancer.
Lactate as a Predictor in Severe Pneumonia
Authors: Ose Darta , Berzins Arvids , Grigorovica Krista , Klucniks Andris , Sabelnikovs Olegs
Published: May 2016

Introduction. There are many discussions that one of the mortality risk markers for patients admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) with different etiology shock is admission blood lactate level. It is believed that serum lactate could be used as an early marker of mortality risk determination. We are not aware about research studies regarding admission serum lactate prognostic significance in patients with severe community acquired pneumonia (CAP) in first 24 hours after admission to ICU in Latvia.

Aim of the study.

1. To evaluate the prognostic significance of the first lactate level in patients with severe pneumonia. To compare the statistical data of different blood lactate levels (LAC1, LAC2, LAC3, LAC4, LACMAX, LACMIN).

2. To find admission lactate reference level which is attributed to significant increase of mortality.

3. To compare with other markers and scoring systems like: PCT (procalcitonin), CRP (C-reactive protein), CURB-65 (pneumonia severity score), APACHEII (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II).

Material and methods. This is a retrospective observational study in which data were collected on all patients admitted to ICUwith pneumonia and sepsis and/or septic shock in two major Hospitals of Republic of Latvia (Eastern Clinical university hospital and Pauls Stradins Clinical university hospital) with primary diagnosis of severe community acquired pneumonia (CAP). We compared the relationship between lactate values that were collected in 24 hour period after admission in ICU and ICU mortality.

Results. In this study we analyzed data from consecutive 73 patients with severe CAP and sepsis and/or septic shock and we observed statistically significant difference between the first lactate level (LAC1) in survivors (2.7 [1.9-3.2] (mmol/l) and non-survivors 4.9 [4.3-7.5] (mmol/l); p<0.001).According to data patients with LAC1<3.0 (mmol/l) mortality risk was 0%, patients with LAC1 3.0 - 4.0 (mmol/l) risk was 42.1%, while patients with LAC1>4.0 (mmol/l) mortality risk reached 89.7%. Lactate level measurements in first 24 hours after arrival into the ICU have had high ability to stratify non-survivor patients: LAC1 (0.96), LAC2 (0.98), LAC3 (0.97), LAC4 (0.92), (AUC). Incomparison with other prognostic markers sensitivity and specificity following results were obtained: CRP (0.59), PCT (0.98), APACHE II (0.98), CURB-65 (0.63).

Conclusions. Summarizing data on patients with severe pneumonia and sepsis and/or septic shock admission lactate in first 24 hours have significant independent predictive value. In first 24 hours after admission in ICU higher mortality were observed if LAC1 was >3 (mmol/l). Data proves for the patients with severe pneumonia LAC1 is having similar prognostic ability like APACHEII and PCT, and significantly better prognostic ability than CRP and CURB-65.
Incidence and Predictive Value of Thrombocytopenia in Patients with Severe Community Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Dunaiceva Jelena , Sabelnikovs Olegs
Published: May 2016

Introduction. Thrombocytopenia is frequently encountered in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. The cause of thrombocytopenia is multifactorial, it develops as a result of infection, inflammation and depletion of coagulation factors. Therefore, thrombocytopenia could potentially serve as an indicator of severity of the illness and an outcome predictor in patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia (CAP).

Aim of the study. To determine incidence and predictive value of thrombocytopenia in ICU patients with severe CAP.

Material and methods. We carried out a retrospective study based on clinical records from patients admitted to the Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital Intensive Care and Reanimation Unit from 2011 to 2014. Thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet count ≤150×109/L.

Results. A total of 98 patients were included in this study, 58 (59%) men and 40 (41%) women. The mean (±SD) age of patients was 61±17.9 years, 54% died and 46% survived. 57 patients (58%) developed thrombocytopenia, in 58% it was present at the admission to ICU, and 42% developed thrombocytopenia during their stay in ICU. The lowest platelet count, in survivors was on fifth day in ICU, while in non-survivors on fourth day in ICU. Platelet count on admission to ICU (ROC AUC: 0.610, p=0.095) had lower discriminative power for ICU mortality than SOFA score (ROC AUC: 0.729, p=0.001) and CURB-65 score (ROC AUC: 0.680, p=0.006). Patients with thrombocytopenia at any point of ICU stay had higher hospital mortality in comparison to patients without thrombocytopenia. (36 (63.1%) vs 17 (41.1%), p=0.041). In thrombocytopenic patients non-resolution of thrombocytopenia during the ICU stay was associated with higher mortality (OR 5.5; 95% CI, 1.6-18.7, p=0.006). After adjusting for age, gender and SOFA score, non-resolution of thrombocytopenia remained to be an independent mortality predictor (OR 8, 95% CI 1.7-37, p=0.008)

Conclusions. Thrombocytopenia is frequently encountered in patients with severe CAP. Thrombocytopenia at any point of ICU stay is associated with higher hospital mortality. Resolution of thrombocytopenia is associated with better clinical outcome.
Impact of Epidural Analgesia on Labor: Length of Labor, Operative Vaginal Delivery Rate and Occiput Posterior
Authors: Krievina Santa , Dunaiceva Jelena , Miskova Anna
Published: May 2016

Introduction.Epidural analgesia (EA) is widely used as labor analgesia. It has been reported that EA can slow down the course of labor and increase the risk of operative vaginal delivery. Slower course of labor can lead to an increased risk of abnormal fetal heart rate (FHR). Some studies have also demonstrated an increase in occiput posterior position of the fetal head at delivery if EA is used. It represents a mechanism that may contribute to the lower rate of spontaneous vaginal delivery.

Aim of study. To evaluate the impact of EA on the length of labor and the rate of operative vaginal delivery, and to determine whether EA increases the rate of occiput posterior of the fetal head at delivery

Material and methods. We carried out a retrospective case-control study based on clinical records from parturients admitted to Riga Maternity Hospital in 2013. Parturients were divided into two groups: case group comprised parturients who had EA, while parturients of control group did not have EA. Groups were further subdivided into primiparas and multiparas and comparisons were made according to parity. We excluded parturients who had obstructed labor, pathological labor, induction of the labor, history of C-section and significant anomaly of the fetus.

Results. A total of 832 parturients were included in the study, 304 in EA group (220 primiparas and 84 multiparas) and 528 in control group (257 primiparas and 271 multiparas). Primiparas of EA group had longer latent phase of the first stage of labor in comparison to primiparas of control group (p=0.001), while multiparas of EA group had longer first stage (p=0.031) of labor and longer latent phase of labor (p<0.001) than their respective controls. Vacuum extraction was used in 1.27% of all deliveries with EA. Moreover, vacuum extraction was used only in primiparas an there was no statistically significant difference between EA group primiparas and control group primiparas (1.7% vs. 1.2%, p=0.593). EA did not increase the rate of occiput posterior positon of fetal head. However, primiparas with EA and occiput posterior were more likely to have an abnormal FHR tracing in comparison to primiparas with EA and without occiput posterior position of fetal head (40% vs. 9.8%, p=0.029; RR=4.09, 95% CI 1.3-12.9). There was no statistically significant link between occiput posterior position and abnormal FHR tracing in control group primiparas.

Conclusion. EA does not increase the likelihood of operative vaginal delivery. However, parturients with EA have longer latent phase of the first stage of labor. Risk for occiput posterior at delivery is not increased in labor with EA. However, the risk for abnormal FHR among primiparas who receive EA is increased in case of occiput posterior position of the fetal head.
Correlation Between Visual Field Functional and Optic Nerve Disc Structural Damage of Patients With Glaucoma
Authors: Elksnis Eriks , Lace Ilze
Published: May 2016

Introduction.Retrospective study were made to find out the correlation between visual field functional and optic nerve disc structural damage of patients with glaucoma in early and late stage of disease.

Aim of the study. The aim of the present research was to characterize the relationships between visual field functional and optic nerve disc structural damage of patients with glaucoma in different stage of disease and create the basis of correlation.

Material and methods. Together 94 patients (137 eyes) were analyzed from Pauls Stradins clinical university hospital ophthalmology clinic, whom during years 2010 - 2012 were made computerized visual field at least more than 3 times and optical coherence tomography (OCT) research in one day. Following data as retinal nerve fiber layer scan with OCT of optic nerve disc and visual field were analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups according to the vision field functional damage severity. First group - patients in moderate stage of glaucoma, but second - in late stage of disease. From visual field examination was rated numerical corrected/pattern deviation map from age related norm values and compared with OCT Spectralis optic nerve retinal nerve fiber layer measurements using Garway - Heath map.

Results. The average age of patients were 73.94 years ± 6.95 years. Glaucoma in moderate stage was diagnosed in 96 (70.1%) of patients eyes, but in late stage - 41 (29.9%) eyes. In moderate stage the positive correlation was found in 72.9%% (70/96), but in 27.1% the correlation was not found with one of the diagnostic methods. (p<0.01). Looking trough out the results in moderate stage of disease the structural damage was recognized in 91.66% (88/96) cases, but functional visual field loss in 81.25% (78/96) cases. In severe stage of glaucoma the positive correlation between the diagnostic methods was in 92.68% (38/41), but in 7.32% (3/41) the OCT didn’t show the damage as wide as visual field. (p<0.18).

Conclusion. Correlation between functional changes diagnosed by OCT RNFL scan and structural damage shown by computerized perimetry data seems to depend on the stage of glaucoma.
Tactile Sensibility of Natural Teeth and Osseointegrated Dental Implants to Loading
Authors: Grieznis Linards , Apse Peteris , Blumfelds Leons
Published: May 2016

Introduction. Dental implant therapy has become a popular method of replacing one or more missing teeth. Osseointegrated dental implants have been studied from histological, microbiologic and biomechanical point of view, but the neurophysiologic integration of the implants and the supported prostheses has received less attention. The sensory mechanism of dental implants is qualitatively different from that of natural teeth. Psychophysiological tests are used to determine the tactile sensibility perceived with the implants and teeth.

Aim of the study. The purpose of this study was to compare tactile sensibility of natural teeth and osseointegrated dental implants.

Material and methods. Forty-three patients were included in the study. Natural teeth were divided into two groups: non endodontically treated teeth (NETT) and endodontically treated teeth (ETT). Load tests were done by a computer-controlled pressure sensitive device („Power Lab“ Data Acquisition System - model 4/25T, sensor - model MLT003/D; ADInstruments), specially modified for intraoral use. Pushing forces were applied parallel to the vertical axis of teeth and implants. The patient held a signal button which he/she activated as soon as touch was sensed. At this moment the computer registered passive absolute tactile threshold - measured in Newtons. The mean values of passive absolute tactile threshold for natural teeth and dental implants were calculated. Comparison of the mean values was performed by the means of t-test.

Results. Passive absolute tactile threshold for osseointegrated dental implants was 2.39 N (SD=1.92), and for teeth - 0.67 N (SD=0.72), for non endodontically treated teeth it was 0.63 N (SD=0.72) and for endodontically treated teeth - 0.73 N (SD=0.69). The differences in mean values were statistically significant (p<0,0001) except for mean values of NETT vs. ETT.

Conclusion. This study shows that patients with osseointegrated implants subjectively feel “touch” sensation when greater force is applied compared with natural teeth.
Apoptosis, ANUP, Chromogranin A, PGP 9.5, Endothelins and VEGF in Acquired Heart Diseases: Review of Literature
Authors: Kulmane Edite , Pilmane Mara , Lacis Romans
Published: May 2016

According to the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control of Latvia data, in 2014 16076 latvians died from cardiovascular diseases and it is 57,03% of all deaths. Changes in myocardium of the diseased hearts are complex and pathogenesis is still not fully clear. Morphopathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases are complex molecular cell changes which include apoptosis, homeostasis regulating factors, and innervation and ischemia markers.

In this article we wanted to provide an overview about apoptosis, atrial natriuretic peptide, chromogranin A, neuropeptide-containing innervation, endothelins and vascular endothelial growth factor in pathomorphology of acquired heart diseases and their clinical implications.
Medium-Term Outcome after Multidisciplinary Management in Polytrauma Patient: a Case Report
Authors: Kornilova-Filusina Vera , Vikmanis Andris , Jakusonoka Ruta , Rusovs Gundars , Cistjaka Marija
Published: May 2016

Previously healthy young patients having survived after multiple severe musculoskeletal injuries and undergone trauma-related amputation of lower limb have a long life expectancy. This case shows the role of multidisciplinary approach in severely injured polytrauma patient managed by traumatologists-orthopaedists, anesthetists-resuscitators, radiologists, general surgeons, microsurgeons, thoracic surgeons, urologists, neurologists, physical therapy rehabilitators, physiotherapists, technical orthopaedists, prosthetists. Majeed score demonstrates ability to perform work and to walk. Amputation affects the quality of life with a certain negative somatic and functional impact. Microprocessor controlled knee joint in patients after transfemoral amputation allows more precise adjustment of knee resistance, providing an increased walking velocity, reduction in stumble and falls, however the final outcome depends also on patients’ own motivation and readiness to regain previous quality of life.
Algebraic nature of singular Riemannian foliations in spheres
Authors: Lytchak Alexander , Radeschi Marco
Published: May 2016

We prove that singular
Riemannian foliations in Euclidean spheres can be defined by polynomial equations.
CA-125: What does that lab really mean?
Authors: Patel Roma , Armfield Matthew , Olson Andrew
Published: May 2016

Ovarian torsion is often a diagnosis of exclusion, and while less common in pre-pubertal females, it is on the differential for a pelvic mass. Tumor markers can be used to characterize a pelvic mass, with varying sensitivity and specificity. This is a case of a 10-year-old pre-pubertal female presenting with abdominal pain and found to have an ovarian mass. Her tumor markers demonstrated an elevated CA-125, increasing concern for neoplasm. This led to a delayed operative course and she was ultimately found to have an ovarian torsion. There is unclear utility of CA-125 in pediatrics and reliance on tumor markers during the work-up of an ovarian mass should be limited to avoid diagnostic error.
Electrochemical synthesis of hydrogen with depolarization of the anodic process
Authors: Tulskiy Gennadiy , Tulskaya Alena , Skatkov Leonid , Gomozov Valeriy , Deribo Svetlana
Published: May 2016

A new active composite coating for graphite gas diffusion electrode for hybrid sulfur cycle was proposed. The kinetics of oxidation of SO2 were studied on porous graphite anodes with different catalytic coatings. It was shown that the most efficient composite coating is based on activated carbon and platinum supported on graphite gas diffusion substrate. The voltage drop in the laboratory electrochemical cell was 1.3 V at a current density of 1000 A·m−2. This corresponds to a specific consumption of 3.1 kWh electric energy per 1 m3 of hydrogen.
Reevaluating Etruscan Influences on the Engravings of Praenestine Pear-shaped Mirrors and Cistae
Authors: van der Meer L. Bouke
Published: May 2016

Praenestine bronze cistae and pear-shaped bronze handle mirrors with engraved figural scenes, some with Latin inscriptions (ca. 350–300 B.C.E.), should not be labeled as Etruscan, Italic or or middle Republican Roman. The influences of the engravings of Etruscan circular tang and handle mirrors, although they were exported from Southern Etruria to Praeneste (nowadays Palestrina), are slight and incidental. The same holds true for influences of Praenestine mirrors on Etruscan mirrors. Even though intercultural artistic relations existed between certain Etruscan cities and Praeneste, the influence was not potent enough to label works of Praenestine craftsmanship as Etruscan. They have their own, distinct local character.
New Evidence of the gens Ciartia: An Etruscan Tile Stamp from Cinigiano (GR), loc. Tombarelle
Authors: Collins-Elliott Stephen A. , Bowes Kim
Published: May 2016

In the course of excavating the site of Tombarelle near Cinigiano (GR), a roof tile with a public stamp in Etruscan was recovered from a late Antique context. The stamp contributes new information on the regional distribution of the
Envisioning Rome’s Prehistoric River Harbor: An Interim Report from the Forum Boarium
Authors: Brock Andrea L.
Published: May 2016

Following a brief discussion of the literature and intellectual history of Rome’s river port, this article presents preliminary results from a mechanized coring survey of the Forum Boarium valley. Conducted in 2015, this survey produced empirical evidence on prehistoric human activity Rome’s floodplain and acquired substantial data on the paleolandscape of the region, including the shifting position of the Tiber River and the discovery of lacustrine deposits in the valley. Additionally, consideration is given to the advantages and limitations posed by the natural landscape during the origins of settlement and early urban development at Rome.
Factors affecting variation in the vase life response of waxflower cultivars (Myrtaceae: Chamelaucium Desf. and Verticordia spp. Desf.) tested under various vase solutions
Authors: Dung Cao D. , Seaton Kevin , Singh Zora
Published: May 2016

The effects of genotype and vase solutions on the vase lives of waxflower cultivars were studied. The vase life of 16 cultivars derived from different genetic backgrounds showed a variation. The vase life of Chamelaucium uncinatum cultivars held in deionised water was generally the shortest, with four cultivars averaging 9.5 and 8.9 days for flowers and leaves while the vase lives of C. uncinatum × megalopetalum hybrids were on average 16.0 and 25.0 days for flowers and leaves, respectively. The hybrid ‘Southern Stars’ with C. uncinatum × Verticordia plumosa as parents had the longest flower vase life of 24.9 days, although another Verticordia × Chamelaucium had a 9.5-day flower vase life and other hybrids of the cultivars of C. uncinatum and Verticordia grandis Desf. (‘WX73’), C. sp. Gingin Marchantii (‘WX97’) and C. floriferum (‘Lady Stephanie’) as a parent had intermediate to short vase lives of 11.4 to 15.5 days. The cultivars responded most to 8-hydroxyquniline sulphate (HQS) + sucrose or HQS + sucrose + silver thiosulphate (STS), being 1.5- to 1.6-folds higher than in deionized water. The cultivars showed a varied response to a vase solution of sucrose + HQS + STS, with which C. uncinatum vase life increased 1.9-fold compared to 1.7-fold for C. megalopetalum. Waxflowers were found to be susceptible to water stress, causing flowers to close and shortening vase life. On average for the 80 cultivar-vase solution combinations tested, flower vase life ended when the stems reached 75.5 ± 5% fresh weigh. Longer vase life cultivars had a greater ability of maintaining a water balance at or above 75% for longer.
Circulating microRNAs as a Novel Class of Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers in Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Authors: Kichukova Tatyana M. , Popov Nikolay T. , Ivanov Hristo Y. , Vachev Tihomir I.
Published: May 2016

Neuropsychiatric diseases, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (BD), major depressive disorder (MDD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), are a huge burden on society, impairing the health of those affected, as well as their ability to learn and work. Biomarkers that reflect the dysregulations linked to neuropsychiatric diseases may potentially assist the diagnosis of these disorders. Most of these biomarkers are found in the brain tissue, which is not easily accessible. This is the challenge for the search of novel biomarkers that are present in various body fluids, including serum or plasma. As a group of important endogenous small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression at post-transcriptional level, microRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in many physiological and pathological processes. Previously, researchers discovered that miRNAs contribute to the neurodevelopment and maturation, including neurite outgrowth, dendritogenesis and dendritic spine formation. These developments underline the significance of miRNAs as potential biomarkers for diagnosing and prognosing central nervous system diseases. Accumulated evidence indicates that there are considerable differences between the cell-free miRNA expression profiles of healthy subjects and those of patients. Therefore, circulating miRNAs are likely to become a new class of noninvasive, sensitive biomarkers. Despite the fact that little is known about the origin and functions of circulating miRNAs, their essential roles in the clinical diagnosis and prognosis of neuropsychiatric diseases make them attractive biomarkers. In this review we cover the increasing amounts of dataset that have accumulated in the last years on the use of circulating miRNAs and their values as potential biomarkers in most areas of neuropsychiatric diseases.
Heart Rate Variability as a Method for Assessment of the Autonomic Nervous System and the Adaptations to Different Physiological and Pathological Conditions
Authors: Taralov Zdravko Z. , Terziyski Kiril V. , Kostianev Stefan S.
Published: May 2016

The autonomic nervous system controls the smooth muscles of the internal organs, the cardiovascular system and the secretory function of the glands and plays a major role in the processes of adaptation. Heart rate variability is a non-invasive and easily applicable method for the assessment of its activity. The following review describes the origin, parameters and characteristics of this method and its potential for evaluation of the changes of the autonomic nervous system activity in different physiological and pathological conditions such as exogenous hypoxia, physical exercise and sleep. The application of heart rate variability in daily clinical practice would be beneficial for the diagnostics, the outcome prognosis and the assessment of the effect of treatment in various diseases.
Osteoporosis: Therapeutic Options
Authors: Ivanova Stefka , Vasileva Liliya , Ivanova Stanislava , Peikova Lily , Obreshkova Danka
Published: May 2016

The definition of osteoporosis was originally formulated at a conference of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1993 as ‘a systemic skeletal disease characterized by decreased bone mass and altered micro-architecture of bone tissue, leading to enhanced bone fragility and risk of fractures’. Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD) and loss of the structural and bio-mechanical properties that are required to maintain bone homeostasis. This review aims to address the currently available options in prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Management of osteoporosis includes non-pharmacological treatment - diet rich of calcium and vitamin D, healthy lifestyle, proper exercise plan, and pharmacological therapy. Combination of non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment options have to be considered for prevention of osteoporosis and minimization of the risk of fractures. Given the heterogeneity of osteoporosis syndrome and lack of significant number of comparative studies, the choice of a pharmacological agents should be individualized.