bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High level of oxysterols in neonatal cholestasis: a pitfall in analysis of biochemical markers for Niemann-Pick type C disease
Authors: Polo Giulia , Burlina Alessandro , Furlan Francesca , Kolamunnage Thilini , Cananzi Mara , Giordano Laura , Zaninotto Martina , Plebani Mario , Burlina Alberto
Published: December 2015

Background: Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC) is a rare lipid storage disorder characterized by progressive neurological deterioration. Diagnosing NPC is challenging as clinical signs and symptoms are variable and non-specific. Two oxysterols, cholestane-3β,5α,6β-triol (triol) and 7-ketocholesterol (7KC), have been proposed as biomarkers for aiding diagnosis of NPC. This study evaluated the use of triol and 7KC as biomarkers in cholestatic neonates with suspected NPC.

Methods: Plasma triol and 7KC were analysed as dimethylglycine esters using an liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) assay in selected neonates with severe cholestasis and suspected NPC (n=7), adults with cholestasis (n=15), patients with confirmed NPC (positive controls; n=11 [one child and 10 adults]), healthy subjects (negative controls; n=40 [20 children and 20 adults]), and cholestatic adults (comparative reference; n=15). The LC-MS/MS method was subjected to a number of tests for accuracy and consistency.

Results: Triol and 7KC levels were substantially and significantly increased in NPC positive patients compared with healthy controls (p<0.001). However, positive results (markedly increased levels of both oxysterols) were identified in 6/7 (86%) neonates with cholestasis. Genetic testing confirmed NPC only in one neonate who had increased triol and 7KC, and increased oxysterol levels among neonates with no identified NPC gene mutations were considered likely due to biliary atresia (BA).

Conclusions: While the potential of oxysterols as NPC biomarkers has been well evaluated in older patient populations (without cholestasis), our data suggest that cholestasis might represent a pitfall in oxysterol measurements intended to aid diagnosis of NPC in affected patients.
Geometric and Static Analysis of the Historical Trusses in Roman Catholic Church of the Holy Kozma and Damian in the Abramová Village
Authors: Krušinský Peter , Capková Eva , Gocál Jozef , Holešová Michaela
Published: December 2015

The truss of the Roman Catholic Church of the holy Kozma and Damian was managed to date to the year 1470/71d. It represents one of the few well-preserved medieval structures in this region. The form of roofs is a typical for rafter collar-beam construction without stiffening frame. The geometrical analysis of the main roofs trusses is based on logical dependencies and a description of a process in the truss design, pointing to evaluative relations resulting especially from the Pythagorean Geometry. Consequently, a spatial numerical model of the roof structure was developed in order to perform a static analysis of the roof structure in accordance with present standards. Due to the fact that during the diagnostic survey there were noted some missing structural elements in the roof construction (angle braces), in further analysis, an attention was paid to the importance of the selected structural elements and their role in the construction of the truss itself.
The Evaluation of Flammability Properties Regarding Testing Methods
Authors: Osvaldová Linda Makovická , Gašpercová Stanislava
Published: December 2015

In this paper, we address the historical comparison methods with current methods for the assessment of flammability characteristics for materials an especially for wood, wood components and wooden buildings. Nowadays in European Union brings harmonization in evaluated of standards into each European country and try to make one concept of evaluated the flammability properties. In each European country to the one standard level which will be used by evaluation of materials regarding flammability. In our article we focused mainly on improving the evaluation methods in terms of flammability characteristics of using materials at building industry. In the article we present examples of different assessment methods at their own test methods in terms of fire prevention. On the base of old compared of materials by STN, BS and DIN methods for testing materials on fire and new methods of evaluating the flammability properties regarding EU standards before and after starting the flash over.
Development of forest inventory methods in multifunctional forest management
Authors: Borecki Tomasz , Brzeziecki Bogdan , Stępień Edward , Wójcik Roman
Published: December 2015

The demand for wide range and precise information on forests promotes continuous development of forest inventory methods, owing to the fact that compilation of reliable data is prerequisite not only for improving forest management schedules but also planning land use and natural environment management. In the reality of contemporary forestry, a requirement to improve forest inventory methods stems from obligation to acquire information on broadly understood issues of forestry as well as the protection of nature and environment.

The paper points out to the essential steps, as said by the authors, on the way to the improvement of now used forest inventory methods and calls attention to remote sensing technologies such as ortophotomaps and aerial lidar data.

The revisions proposed concern gathering information on: site conditions, species diversity, forest stock range as well as sample size and work scope on sampling areas. At the same time, in view of surveying the dynamics of forest change, there is recommended the use of permanent observation plots, especially in mountainous forests.
Influence of selected factors on bark beetle outbreak dynamics in the Western Carpathians
Authors: Vakula Jozef , Zúbrik Milan , Galko Juraj , Gubka Andrej , Kunca Andrej , Nikolov Christo , Bošeľa Michal
Published: December 2015

In the period from 1992 to 2013, more than 3.8 million m3 of spruce wood from an area of 55 thousand ha of forests in the Kysuce region (Western Carpathians) was affected by bark beetles. This region has had the highest volume of salvage fellings in Slovakia. While before 1991, bark-beetle outbreak usually occurred after snow and wind disturbances, since 1992 they have occurred in the years with extremely warm and dry growing seasons and the years following them. These years were also characterised by high volumes of wood affected by honey fungus (Armillaria spp.), which only rarely took part in the calamities before 1992. Extreme deterioration of the situation occurred after 2003. In fragmented and sparse stands, the volume of wood damaged by wind increased. Artificial origin of spruce stands, their high occurrence, high age and even-agedness are likely pre-disposing factors of spruce forest decline. Bark beetles have become the most important factor of spruce decline. The most important factors driving the bark beetle attack on forest stands in the period 1973–2013 were the amount of unprocessed wood in the previous year; the amount of wood affected by honey fungus, precipitation total, and average temperature in the current growing season. Another important factor that complicated the situation was also the inferior quality of forest management.
Reference frames and reference networks
Authors: Bosy Jaroslaw , Krynski Jan
Published: December 2015

The summary of research activities concerning reference frames and reference networks performed in Poland in a period of 2011-2014 is presented. It contains the results of research on implementation of IUGG2011 and IAU2012 resolutions on reference systems, implementation of the ETRS89 in Poland, operational work of permanent IGS/ EUREF stations in Poland, operational work of ILRS laser ranging station in Poland, active GNSS station networks in Poland, maintenance of vertical control in Poland, maintenance and modernization of gravity control, and maintenance of magnetic control in Poland. The bibliography of the related works is given in references.
Gravity field modelling and gravimetry
Authors: Krynski Jan
Published: December 2015

The summary of research activities concerning gravity field modelling and gravimetric works performed in Poland in the period of 2011-2014 is presented. It contains the results of research on geoid modelling in Poland and other countries, evaluation of global geopotential models, determination of temporal variations of the gravity field with the use of data from satellite gravity space missions, absolute gravity surveys for the maintenance and modernization of the gravity control in Poland and overseas, metrological aspects in gravimetry, maintenance of gravimetric calibration baselines, and investigations of the nontidal gravity changes. The bibliography of the related works is given in references.
Review Of Applied Mathematical Models For Describing The Behaviour Of Aqueous Humor In Eye Structures
Authors: Dzierka M. , Jurczak P.
Published: December 2015

In the paper, currently used methods for modeling the flow of the aqueous humor through eye structures are presented. Then a computational model based on rheological models of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids is proposed. The proposed model may be used for modeling the flow of the aqueous humor through the trabecular meshwork. The trabecular meshwork is modeled as an array of rectilinear parallel capillary tubes. The flow of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids is considered. As a results of discussion mathematical equations of permeability of porous media and velocity of fluid flow through porous media have been received.
Mixed Convection In The Stagnation-Point Flow Over A Vertical Stretching Sheet In The Presence Of Thermal Radiation
Authors: Manjunatha S. , Gireesha B.J. , Bagewadi C.S.
Published: December 2015

An unsteady two-dimensional stagnation-point mixed convection flow of a viscous, incompressible dusty fluid towards a vertical stretching sheet has been examined. The stretching velocity and the free stream velocity are assumed to vary linearly with the distance from the stagnation point. The problem is analyzed using similarity solutions. The similarity ordinary differential equations were then solved numerical by using the RKF-45 method. The effects of various physical parameters on the velocity profile and skin-friction coefficient are also discussed in this paper. Some important findings reported in this work reveal that the effect of radiation has a significant impact on controlling the rate of heat transfer in the boundary layer region.
Adaptive Design for Staggered-Start Clinical Trial
Authors: Yuan Ao , Li Qizhai , Xiong Ming , Tan Ming T.
Published: December 2015

In phase II and/or III clinical trial study, there are several competing treatments, the goal is to assess the performances of the treatments at the end of the study, the trial design aims to minimize risks to the patients in the trial, according to some given allocation optimality criterion. Recently, a new type of clinical trial, the staggered-start trial has been proposed in some studies, in which different treatments enter the same trial at different times. Some basic questions for this trial are whether optimality can still be kept? under what conditions? and if so how to allocate the the coming patients to treatments to achieve such optimality? Here we propose and study a class of adaptive designs of staggered-start clinical trials, in which for given optimality criterion object, we show that as long as the initial sizes at the beginning of the successive trials are not too large relative to the total sample size, the proposed design can still achieve optimality criterion asymptotically for the allocation proportions as the ordinary trials; if these initial sample sizes have about the same magnitude as the total sample size, full optimality cannot be achieved. The proposed method is simple to use and is illustrated with several examples and a simulation study.
Antioxidant modulation of nevirapine induced hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Awodele Olufunsho , Popoola Temidayo , Rotimi Kunle , Ikumawoyi Victor , Okunowo Wahab
Published: December 2015

HIV/AIDS related mortality has been dramatically reduced by the advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, ART presents with associated adverse effects. One of such adverse effects is hepatotoxicity observed with nevirapine (NVP) containing ART. Since previous studies showed that NVP hepatotoxicity may be due to oxidative stress via generation of oxidative radicals, this study sought to evaluate the protective effects of antioxidants in alleviating NVP induced hepatotoxicity. Rats were divided into 6 groups with 8 animals per group and received doses of the antioxidants jobelyn (10.7 mg/kg/day), vitamin C (8 mg/kg/day), vitamin E (5 mg/kg/day) and/or NVP (6 mg/kg/day) for 60 days. The animals were sacrificed on day 61 by cervical dislocation, blood samples were collected for biochemical and hematological examination. The liver of the sacrificed animals was weighed and subjected to histopathological examination. There was a statistically significant (p<0.05) elevation in MDA level observed in the NVP group as compared with control. The results further showed non-significant decreases in the levels of MDA in the NVP plus antioxidant groups, except vitamin C, when compared with the NVP alone group. Vitamin E and Vitamin E plus C treated groups showed significantly (p<0.05) higher levels of SOD, CAT and GSH. The results also showed statistically significantly (p<0.05) lower levels of ALT and AST in the antioxidant treated groups There was an observed significantly (p<0.05) higher level of TP and urea in the antioxidant treated rats. A significantly (p<0.05) higher white blood cell count was observed in the antioxidant groups. Histopathological assessment of the liver extracted from the rats showed no visible pathology across the groups. Observations from this study suggest a potentially positive modulatory effect of antioxidants and may be indicative for the inclusion of antioxidants in nevirapine containing ART.
Physiochemical basis of human degenerative disease
Authors: Zeliger Harold I. , Lipinski Boguslaw
Published: December 2015

The onset of human degenerative diseases in humans, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, neurodevelopmental disease and neurodegenerative disease has been shown to be related to exposures to persistent organic pollutants, including polychlorinated biphenyls, chlorinated pesticides, polybrominated diphenyl ethers and others, as well as to polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, phthalates, bisphenol-A and other aromatic lipophilic species. The onset of these diseases has also been related to exposures to transition metal ions. A physiochemical mechanism for the onset of degenerative environmental disease dependent upon exposure to a combination of lipophilic aromatic hydrocarbons and transition metal ions is proposed here. The findings reported here also, for the first time, explain why aromatic hydrocarbons exhibit greater toxicity than aliphatic hydrocarbons of equal carbon numbers.
Pharmacokinetics Of Zinc In Broiler Chickens After Single Intraingluvial Administration With Zinc Aspartate
Authors: Ivanova Sofiya L. , Dimitrova Dimitrichka J. , Petrichev Metodi H. , Parvanova Liliana I. , Kalistratov Georgi Sl. , Vezenkov Lubomir T.
Published: December 2015

The pharmacokinetics of zinc was investigated in broiler chickens after single crop intubation of 50 mg/kg 5% zinc aspartate suspension in 2% carboxymethyl cellulose solution. Blood serum zinc concentrations were assayed on a biochemical analyzer. The pharmacokinetics of zinc was evaluated using two approaches – compartmental method and non-compartmental analysis using pharmacokinetic software (TopFit, v. 2.0). After the intraingluvial application, zinc was rapidly absorbed (t1/2abs. =0.1040.02 h) by the alimentary system of birds attaining Cmax of 63.603.94 mol/ml by hour 0.77 (compartmental method) and Cmax =69.274.35 mol/ml by hour 0.92 h (non-compartmental method). It is characterized with a long biological half-life (t1/2) of 13.821.63 h (compartmental analysis) and 15.961.73 h (non-compartmental analysis) and long mean residence times (MRT) 20.122.35 h and 23.002.50 h, respectively. The distribution in blood and extracellular fluid was good as seen from Vd(area) values 0.770.05 l/kg (compartmental analysis) and 0.650.05 l/kg (non-compartmental analysis).
Localization Of MMP-2 And MMP-9 In Canine Mammary Gland During Pregnancy
Authors: Pupaki Despina V. , Ankova Dessislava , Vasilev Veselin P. , Rashev Pavel I.
Published: December 2015

The mammary gland is unique in its development because most of its branching occurs in adolescent rather than in prenatal development. During early pregnancy extensive ductal side branching occurs while during the second half, secretory lobuloalveolar units are formed within the mammary gland. As modulators of the extracellular matrix, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are the major enzymes taking part in the development of the gland. The activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 has mostly been associated with tumor progression, while their participation in the physiological development of the mammary gland is not well characterized. In the present study the cell-specific localization of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the developing dog mammary gland during pregnancy was investigated. In the early stages, both gelatinases were present, being located mostly in the epithelium of the ducts and less so in the surrounding stroma. After the formation of alveoli, MMP-2 was still present but MMP-9 was absent from the glandular epithelium and the stroma, being present only in the epithelium of the larger ducts. The results show that most likely, both gelatinases take part in ductal branching during early pregnancy, but only MMP-2 is associated with the differentiated stage of lactation.
Metabolic Disturbances In The Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Arabadzhieva Daniela Y. , Kaprelyan Ara G. , Georgieva Zhaneta T. , Slavov Zdravko D. , Tsukeva Aleksandra Zh.
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to analyze the disturbances of glucose, lipid and protein metabolism in acute ischemic stroke patients. A total of 258 patients (mean age 70.9±7.22 years, range 49-92 years) were studied. The following parameters were examined: blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, creatinine, and urea. Data were statistically processed by variation and correlation analysis. Our results demonstrated abnormal values of these laboratory parameters in most patients. The mean concentrations of triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol were higher in females, while these of blood glucose were higher in males, especially in the age group between 76 and 80 years. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was highest between the variables ‘total cholesterol’ and ‘LDL-cholesterol’ (r=0.797) but moderate - between some of the rest variables such as ‘creatinine’ and ‘urea’ (r=0.575); ‘total cholesterol’ and ‘triglycerides’ (r=0.565); ‘total cholesterol’ and ‘urea’ (r=0.428); ‘triglycerides’ and ‘urea’ (r=0.370) and ‘LDL-cholesterol’ and ‘urea’ (r=0.301). In conclusion, the metabolic disorders are relatively common among acute ischemic stroke patients and play a specific role as risk factors for this disease. These parameters should regularly be controlled within the outpatient practice in order to warrant an effective prevention of acute ischemic stroke.
Overweight, Obesity, And Related Diseases Among Workers With Different Workload
Authors: Gidikova Pavlina L. , Sandeva Gergana N. , Haracherova Kamelia H. , Sandeva Rositsa V.
Published: December 2015

A person's weight depends on major factors like genetics, diet, and physical activity. Physical activity in adults is defined mainly by workload – light, moderate or heavy. The aim was to explore associations between weight and chronic non-infectious diseases in workers with different physical activity. The subjects included in the study were 224 male and 249 female employees, divided by workload based on their job description. Body mass index (BMI) and disease incidence were calculated, and statistical analysis was performed. The highest percentage of overweight and obese subjects was found in men with light workload. The mean BMI for men (27.434.85) was significantly higher than that for women (25.875.06). Analysis of obesity-associated diseases showed that in workers with higher BMI there was a higher incidence of endocrine disorders, musculoskeletal and related neurological diseases. Diseases of the circulatory system were highly prevalent in both overweight/obese and underweight employees. In conclusion, physical activity at work contributes to changes in BMI in the working population. Obesity-associated circulatory, endocrine and musculoskeletal diseases were highly prevalent in the groups with higher BMI. The prevalence in employees without diseases was in inverse relation to BMI.
Attitudes Of Regular Alcohol Drinking Adolescents To Intersubjective Relations And Everyday Life
Authors: Sarov Georgi M.
Published: December 2015

It is well known that some psychological features of adolescents as extraversion, risk-taking and impulsivity positively associate with substance abuse. The aim of the study was a description of psychological features of adolescents associated with regular alcohol drinking. We conducted a survey using an original questionnaire, classifying alcohol drinking as regular, social (incidental) and abstinence. The adolescents were asked to evaluate their own patterns of drinking. Of the 903 investigated students (aged 15-19), 169 identified themselves as regular alcohol drinkers (RDA), and 279 – as abstainers (NDA). These two groups were compared statistically in terms of a wide range of self-described psychological features. It was found that RDA were more likely to strive for dominant positioning in intersubjective relations (OR 1.8, 95%CI 1.22-2.65), more likely to avoid academic obligations (OR 1.61, 95%CI 1.08-2.39), and more likely to postpone their duties in everyday life (OR 1.81, 95%CI 1.23-2.67). It seems that regular drinking positively associates with egocentric personality traits and help is needed in personality development that could have a positive secondary effect on alcohol prevention.
Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration – A New Approach In Optical Coherence Tomography Monitoring And Quantitative Assessment
Authors: Hristova Elitsa G. , Zlatarova Zornitsa I.
Published: December 2015

The purpose of the study was to present the ability of Drusen analysis software tool to measure drusen area and volume in patients with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Eleven patients with confirmed dry AMD aged 59-74 years were scanned with 3D OCT-2000 Topcon 3D Macula scanning protocol by a single operator. All subjects underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination including best corrected visual acuity, indirect biomicroscopy, tonometry, fluorescein angiography and OCT. Drusen analysis was performed on the macula with 6.0 × 6.0 mm volume cube scans and 512×128 pixels scan resolution. The results were presented along with calculated values in two clearly arranged reports. Mean follow-up period was 19 months (6-40). Count, area occupation, volume of the drusen and 3D retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) elevation map were presented in a Macula drusen analysis report. Drusen count and volume in 6 patients were increased at the end of follow-up period. There were 5 patients with regression in drusen count and area and volume of the drusen in 3 of them were higher than on previous examination. Another 2 were with regression not only in drusen count but also in their area and volume. With this software tool the status of RPE can be objectively and automatically examined in detail and can be followed up over time. OCT allows for precise quantitative evaluation and study of microstructural changes in patients with dry AMD and provides three-dimensional information of macular pathology in situ and in real time. This could be useful for determining stages and monitoring the progression of AMD.
Pulmonary Gangrene - Severe And Rare Complication Of Pneumonia
Authors: Petrova Guergana , Perenovska Penka I. , Miteva Dimitrinka , Kabakchieva Radost T. , Brankov Ognyan G. , Drebov Rosen S.
Published: December 2015

Pneumonia is an inflammatory lung disorder characterized by consolidation due to presence of exudates in the alveolar spaces. Most pneumonias can be effectively treated with appropriate oral antibiotics, with intravenous antibiotics being reserved for those with severe infections. We present two cases of girls admitted in our clinic with pneumonia where our conventional therapy was not sufficient. Case 1: A 15-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis, with left lobular pneumonia, for which an aggressive conservative treatment was initiated. After significant improvement, sudden detorioration and pneumothorax of the left lung occurred. She was transferred to the surgical department for intervention. Due to failure to respond to initial drainage she underwent thoracotomy and resection of the left lower lobe of the lung. The histology result confirmed gangrene. Case 2: A four-year old girl was treated for pneumonia in the right lung with aggressive intravenous antibiotic. After temporary improvement sudden deterioration was observed. The patient was transferred to the surgery department, where pulmonary gangrene was confirmed. After the lower lobe of the right lung was resected, she was discharged in good health. The careful follow up, accurate diagnosis and correct medication choice are crucial for reducing the complications of “common” pneumonia.
Effect Of High-Fructose Solution On Body Weight, Body Fat, Blood Glucose And Triglyceride Levels In Rats
Authors: Sandeva Rositsa V. , Mihaylova Stanislava M. , Sandeva Gergana N. , Trifonova Katya Y. , Popova-Katsarova Ruska D.
Published: December 2015

In Europe, as well as in Bulgaria, consumption of soft drinks and confectionery has increased during the last three decades and is partly responsible for the epidemic-like increase in obesity. These foods, originally sweetened by sucrose, are now sweetened by other caloric sweeteners such as fructose. In this study we investigated the effect of an eight-week intake of 20% fructose solution on body weight in rats. Two adult rat groups (aged 120±6 days) of Wistar line were studied: a Control group (C; n=10; 5 male and 5 female rats) received water and standard rodent chow, and a Fructose group (F; n=12; 6 male and 6 female rats) who received 20% fructose-in-drinking-water solution and regular rodent chow. All animals were weighed and measured (nose to anus length), and the Lee index (equivalent of BMI in rats) was calculated. Body fat was also analyzed. As indicators of increased caloric intake of the Fructose group we investigated glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol (total, HDL and LDL) in blood. In conclusion, consumption of fructose solution in rats resulted in increased body weight, length and measured body fat, increased blood glucose, total cholesterol and triglycerides in the Fructose group, as compared to the controls.
Effect Of Handedness On Functional Organization Of Bimanual Isometric Handgrip
Authors: Kolev Nikolai V. , Halacheva Ljudmila I.
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study was to examine force production during maximal isometric handgrip in unilateral (UL) and bilateral (BL) tasks in right- and left-handed subjects. Ten right-handed (RH) and 8 left-handed (LH) young men were studied. The subjects were instructed, after a command, to perform a shot-like handgrip, raising maximal force as fast as possible. Three series were performed as follows: 1) UL - right handgrip; 2) UL - left handgrip; 3) BL handgrip. We measured peak force, time to peak of force and rate of force. The BL/UL ratios for the right (R) and left (L) hand and L/R ratios for the UL and BL tasks were calculated. The L/R ratios for peak force and force rate in RH group ranged across all tasks and conditions from 0.71 to 0.75. They were significantly lower than 1 (p<0.01). These ratios did not differ significantly from 1 for LH subjects (0.98–1.02), indicating the handedness in RH group only. The BL/UL ratios for peak force were 0.89 and 0.89 in RH, suggesting symmetrical bilateral strength deficit. The magnitude of the bilateral deficit in LH group was larger for the dominant (L) hand compared to non dominant (R) hand – 0.93 and 0.97 (p<0.05) respectively, suggesting an asymmetry of bilateral deficit in LH. These ratios for time of force and rate of force indicated bilateral deficit (BD) in the dominant hand of RH group only.
Myocardial Infarction And Ischemic Heart Disease In Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Arabadzhieva Daniela Y. , Georgieva Zhaneta T. , Kaprelyan Ara G. , Slavov Zdravko D.
Published: December 2015

The aim of the investigation was to analyze the correlation between myocardial infarction and ischemic heart disease, on the one hand, and acute ischemic stroke (AIS), on the other hand. We studied 258 AIS patients (mean age 70.9±7.22 years, range 49-92 years) hospitalized in 2007-2013 in the First Clinic of Neurology, St. Marina University Hospital of Varna. The diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke was confirmed by Doppler sonography and computed tomography of the cerebral circulation. Data were statistically processed by variation and correlation analysis. Our results proved a relatively strong correlation between effort angina pectoris and ischemic heart disease (Pearson's coefficient: r=0.643) as well as a weak correlation between ischemic heart disease and myocardial infarction (Pearson's coefficient: r=0.243) among acute ischemic stroke patients. The well-known risk factors for these cardiovascular diseases such as obesity, tobacco smoking, low physical activity and alcohol abuse were common among the patients with acute ischemic stroke, too. In conclusion, both myocardial infarction and ischemic heart disease are strongly associated with the development of acute ischemic stroke. Such patients require strict and regular control by general practitioners. They should observe an appropriate diet and adhere to a healthy life-style.
Multivessel Disease As A Prognostic Factor For Mortality In STEMI Patients
Authors: Karamfiloff Kiril K. , Stoykova Zhivka D. , Georeva Petya G. , Trendafilova Diana K. , Jorgova Julia B.
Published: December 2015

The main objective of this analysis was to define the influence of multivessel disease involvement compared to single vessel disease on mortality rates in STEMI patients. The retrospective study included 549 patients, hospitalized with STEMI in St. Ekaterina University Hospital (age - 62.66±12.56; women - 31.3%) from 01.06.2008 to 30.06.2011. One-vessel disease was found in 232 patients (44%) as compared to two-vessel disease in 165 patients - 31% and multivessel disease in 130 patients - 25%. There was LM stenosis (>30) in 11 patients (2%); ostial lesion in 33 patients (6.3%); presence of Ca in 37 patients (7%). A stent was implanted in 484 patients (91.8%), and GP IIb/IIIa was used in 400 patients (75.9%). There was significant increase in mortality rates in patients with multivessel disease: 15.6% - 46 patients, compared to one-vessel disease - 6.5% (15 patients) (p<=0.01). Both early (30 days) and late mortality (one year) rates were higher in the multivessel group (6.8% vs. 2.6%, p<=0.05 and 10.2% vs. 3.9% (p<=0.0510), respectively. Multivessel disease is associated with higher mortality rates in STEMI patients, which may further alter clinical course and decision making.
Effects Of Glucose And Bilirubin On The Kinetic Jaffe's And The Enzymatic Methods For Serum Creatinine Assay
Authors: Gencheva Irena I. , Ruseva Adelaida L.
Published: December 2015

The enzymatic method for the determination of serum creatinine is accepted as one of the most accurate methods in a clinical laboratory. This method was used on a biochemistry auto analyzer (Cobas Integra 400) to determine serum creatinine at the laboratory of University Hospital – Pleven. The characteristics and reliability of this enzymatic method for creatinine were compared with the Jaffe kinetic method. Effects of some interfering substances like bilirubin and glucose on the Jaffe kinetic method and the enzymatic method were compared. Glucose and bilirubin inhibit the reaction between creatinine and alkaline picrate. Glucose slowly reduces picric acid to picrate, while the bilirubin present in a sample is oxidized to biliverdin under alkaline conditions. This leads to a decrease in absorbance at 520 nm. We measured creatinine in serum samples with the enzymatic method and the Jaffe kinetic method in samples divided into four groups: group I –samples without bilirubin and glucose ; group II –samples with high level of glucose; group III - samples with high level of bilirubin, group IV – all samples. For Group I, the correlation coefficient obtained by comparing the enzymatic creatinine method and Jaffe's kinetic method was R = 0.983. There was a very good agreement between the two methods in terms of correlation coefficient even in the samples with high levels of glucose or bilirubin.
Perioperative Outcomes Of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: Comparison With Abdominal, Vaginal, And Robot-Assisted Surgical Approaches
Authors: Tomov Slavcho T. , Gortchev Grigor A. , Tantchev Latchesar S. , Dimitrov Todor I. , Tzvetkov Chavdar A. , Popovska Savelina L.
Published: December 2015

Selection of an appropriate surgical method for hysterectomy in an individual patient is currently an issue that remains open and debatable. This study aimed to analyze perioperative outcomes in gynecologic patients who underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy at a single institution during a 6-year period and to compare the data for simple hysterectomy patients treated with different surgical approaches. The study included a retrospective analysis of demographics, pre- and post-operative characteristics of 1,023 patients, operated on using four types of simple hysterectomy approaches: 635 laparoscopic hysterectomies (62.1%), 289 total abdominal hysterectomies (28.3%), 45 total vaginal hysterectomies (4.4%) and 54 robotic-assisted hysterectomies (5.3%). For the laparoscopic hysterectomy group, the mean operative time was shorter as compared to the abdominal and vaginal hysterectomy groups (p<0.05), as well as a significantly shorter hospital length-of-stay when compared to the abdominal, robotic or vaginal hysterectomy groups (p<0.05). Regression analysis revealed significant linear correlation between operative time and body-mass index of laparoscopic hysterectomy patients (R2 =0.008; p=0.026). Complications emergence and hemotransfusion often prolonged the mean operative time significantly by 17.8 min (p=0.002) and 15.5 min, respectively (p<0.001). The rate of major complications was significantly higher in the laparoscopic vs. abdominal groups (p<0.05). Clinical outcomes in patients operated on with laparoscopic hysterectomy were better than in those operated with total abdominal and vaginal hysterectomy in terms of operative time and hospital length-of-stay. Prospective randomized multi-center studies would be desirable to further define the place of the modern minimally invasive hysterectomy approaches.
Analysis Of Labour Inspectors’ Temporary Incapacity For Work
Authors: Georeva Petya G. , Kuneva Tanya P. , Karamfiloff Kiril K. , Stoykova Jivka D.
Published: December 2015

It is known that increased morbidity with temporary incapacity for work (MTIW) is related to stress level and psychosocial factors at work. Practices for stress management, conflict avoidance and optimization of working conditions are known to reduce MTIW level. The aim of the present study was to analyze MTIW and propose measures to optimize and reduce strain at work. The study covered MTIW in labour inspectors, a total of 334 people, men and women aged from 24 to 69. The evaluation was based on 11 of the generally accepted indices. MTIW structure was analyzed. MTIW was rated as high according to case frequency and as very high according to day frequency. The average duration of a TI case was 12.63, and the relative share of people who were frequently taken ill for a long period was 12.81. In the ITI structure, diseases of the respiratory system (42.0%) ranked first, followed by diseases of the nervous system (18.8%), the digestive system (9.9%), CVS (8.3%) and MSS (7.2%). These 5 groups of diseases covered 86.2% of all diagnoses. The remaining 7 groups of diseases covered less than 14% of the diagnoses. The group of people most frequently taken ill for long periods included 28 inspectors who had used 42.5% of the total number of days. Two inspectors with 140 days of absence from work were cases of TI resulting from severe stress and adaptation disorder. Measures were proposed regarding the reduction of strain at work and the risk of stress.
Comparative Analysis And Evaluation Of Occupational Stress In Control Activities
Authors: Georeva Petya G. , Kuneva Tanya P. , Bakova Desislava K. , Karamfiloff Kiril K. , Stoykova Jivka D.
Published: December 2015

Psychosocial factors (PSF) are leading among the new risks and modern challenges in providing safe and healthy conditions at work. Due to the high mental strain, inspectors are at highest risk for stress at work. The aim of the present study was to make a comparative analysis of PSFs in control activities, rate them and investigate subjective perception of stress at work. Two exhaustive cross-sectional studies were conducted consecutively, involving 338 and 355 inspectors, respectively, working at two organizations with control activities. The inspectors were men and women aged from 24 to 70. The statistical processing of data utilized the SPSS software version 17, at a significance level of p<0.05. A number of common characteristics were found in the activities, the composition and structure of different groups of government staff: the number of women was greater (58% и 62.6%), with people over 40 years of age prevailing (67.3% и 70.9%), and the group with specialized work experience of 6 to 10 years comprised the greatest number of people. We found reliable differences in the answers concerning task requirements and activity organization. Rating PSF, one of the groups of inspectors placed “insufficient time to perform the check-up” in the first place, whereas the other one reported “conflicts while performing the check-up”. PSFs exert an influence on the cognitive functions of inspectors, change their behaviour and emotional reactions and result in more frequent complaints of health deterioration. We found difference in the subjective stress perception depending on gender, age and duration of work experience as an inspector.
The Presence Of Non-Drinking Parent Behavioral Model In A Family Prevents Adolescents From Social Alcohol
Authors: Chamova Galya D. , Sarov Georgi M.
Published: December 2015

Parental alcohol drinking is associated with an increased risk of alcohol consumption in adolescents and social drinking is often the first step to regular alcohol consumption. The purpose of the study was to investigate the association between social drinking in adolescence and parental alcohol consumption. We conducted a survey, using a self-completed questionnaire about alcohol drinking habits. Of 903 students (aged 15-19), 279 (30.9%) were found to be abstainers (NDA) and 455 (50.39%) were social drinkers (SDA). These two groups were statistically compared for drinking patterns of their parents. It was found that SDA are fourfold less likely than NDA to have two alcohol abstaining parents (OR=0.26, 95%CI =0.19-0.37) and fourfold more likely to have two alcohol drinking parents (OR=3.89, 95%CI =2.77-5.45). There were no significant differences between SDA and NDA regarding probability to have one abstaining and one socially drinking parent, and SDA were less likely to have one abstaining and one regularly drinking parent (OR=0.54, 0.37-0.8). The social learning theory explains well adolescent drinking patterns when there is no contradiction in parental modeling. It seems, however, that the presence of contradicting patterns of parental alcohol drinking needs another explanation. Since contradicting parental modeling prevents adolescents from social drinking, it could be considered in health prevention intervention.
A Rare Case Of A Trans-Stomal Hernia, Combined With Undiagnosed Mediastinal Lymphadenopathy In A Patient With Rectal Cancer
Authors: Tsvetanova Kameliya T. , Dimitrov Dobromir D. , Feradova Hyuliya E. , Nanev Vasil , Ivanov Tsvetomir M. , Dimitrov Todor Iv.
Published: December 2015

Colon cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases with high grade of malignancy and mortality at high rate. Approximately one million people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year. Metastases affect mostly the liver, followed by the lungs. Here is a rare case of a patient with rectal cancer without disease progression or recurrence who underwent surgery due to a trans-stomal hernia, combined with high transstomal fistula of the ileum. Acute respiratory failure developed in the postoperative period and led to fatal deterioration as a result of enlarged metastatic mediastinal lymph nodes, which was very difficult to diagnose.
Bayesian optimal design of fixed knockout tournament brackets
Authors: Hennessy Jonathan , Glickman Mark
Published: December 2015

We present a methodology for finding globally optimal knockout tournament designs when partial information is known about the strengths of the players. Our approach involves maximizing an expected utility through a Bayesian optimal design framework. Given the prohibitive computational barriers connected with direct computation, we compute a Monte Carlo estimate of the expected utility for a fixed tournament bracket, and optimize the expected utility through simulated annealing. We demonstrate our method by optimizing the probability that the best player wins the tournament. We compare our approach to other knockout tournament designs, including brackets following the standard seeding. We also demonstrate how our approach can be applied to a variety of other utility functions, including whether the best two players meet in the final, the consistency between the number of wins and the player strengths, and whether the players are matched up according to the standard seeding.
Recording at water bodies increases the efficiency of a survey of temperate bats with stationary, automated detectors
Authors: Bruckner Alexander
Published: December 2015

Surveying and monitoring bat populations by recording their calls with stationary detectors has become increasingly popular. This study tested the hypothesis that placing stationary detectors at water bodies yielded more species than in other habitat types in a temperate landscape (settlement, forest, open land). The number of species was significantly affected by habitat type, and sampling at water bodies yielded approximately 50% more species than in open land, the habitat type which was second in species richness. In contrast, bat calling activity was not significantly related to habitat type. With the exception of the northern bat
On Approximation Properties of a New Type of Bernstein-Durrmeyer Operators
Authors: Acar Tuncer , Aral Ali , Gupta Vijay
Published: December 2015

The present paper deals with a new type of Bernstein-Durrmeyer operators on mobile interval. First, we represent the operators in terms of hypergeometric series. We also establish local and global approximation results for these operators in terms of modulus of continuity. We obtain an asymptotic formula for these operators and in the last section we present better error estimation for the operators using King type approach
Structure and thermal expansion of liquid bismuth
Authors: Mudry S. , Shtablavyi I. , Liudkevych U. , Winczewski S.
Published: December 2015

Experimental structural data for liquid Bi were used for estimation of the main structure parameters as well as the thermal expansion coefficient both in supercooled and superheated temperature ranges. It was shown that the equilibrium melt had a positive thermal expansion coefficient within a temperature range upon melting and a negative one at higher temperatures. The former was related to structure changes upon melting, whereas the latter with topologic disordering upon further heating. It was found that the superheated melt had a negative thermal expansion coefficient. The results obtained from structural data were compared with the thermal expansion coefficient calculated from the data of density for liquid Bi.
Finite element simulation and analysis of nanometal-semiconductor contacts
Authors: Eledlebi Khouloud , Ismail Mohammed , Rezeq Moh’d
Published: December 2015

Nanometal-semiconductor contacts in the sub-20-nm range have shown some deviations in electrical characteristics compared to conventional diodes. We have used a finite element simulation software to build and analyze a proposed geometrical model. We used two different theoretical approaches to study the enhancements of the electric field at the interface, and then the total current across nano-Schottky junction. The results revealed a significant tunneling current at the reverse bias for low n-doped semiconductor substrates and low current at the forward bias. However, in the case of high n-doped semiconductor substrates, the thermionic current is significant at forward biases and the current is low at the reverse bias. We have used our finite element simulation models based on both approaches to fit the existing experimental data of nano-Schottky contacts.
Graphene and carbon-based nanomaterials as highly efficient adsorbents for oils and organic solvents
Authors: Wan Shu , Bi Hengchang , Sun Litao
Published: December 2015

This paper provides a comprehensive review of recent progress in the synthesis and performance of graphene and carbon-based nanomaterials as efficient adsorbents for oils and organic solvents. Several advantages of these adsorbents are emphasized, including adjustable three-dimensional networks, high surface area, high chemical/thermal stability, high flexibility and elasticity, and extremely high surface hydrophobicity/ oleophilicity. Technical challenges are discussed, and future research directions are proposed.
Netz-Phytoplankton Diversity in the western and southern regions of the South China Sea
Authors: Liu Haijiao , Sun Jun
Published: December 2015

Based on the survey records on netz-phytoplankton (>76 μm) collected in the South China Sea (SCS) during the cruise from the 21st August to the 18th October, 2012, the species composition, biodiversity and its spatial distribution were studied. The identified 326 phytoplankton species belonged to 75 genera and 4 phyla. Thalassionema nitzschioides was the most dominant species accounting for 33.24% of the total cell abundance, followed by Bacteriastrum furcatum − 8.69%. Whereas the phytoplankton cell abundance (cells l-1) was the highest in the Zhubi Reef (1106.45 ± 2475.38), the southern SCS (396.84 ± 969.87), the western SCS (90.82 ± 144.66) and the northern SCS (66.48 ± 70.89) in order. The distribution of phytoplankton appears to be affected by the Mekong river discharge and particles derived in Sumatra and Kalimantan from biomass burning, nutrient concentrations, the South China Sea Warm Current (SCSWC). The evaluation of biodiversity indices indicated the high level of species richness, evenness and biodiversity in the survey area.