bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationships Between Perception of Illness, Social Support and Hemodialysis Adequacy
Authors: Sak Jarosław , Dryl-Rydzyńska Teresa , Książek Andrzej
Published: May 2015

Introduction. The patients in situations of “being ill” have to face not only pain and disabilities, but also problems in their social relationships. Perceptions of illness are results of reactions to the changes in the existential situations, and that these correspond to determined illness coping strategies.

Aim. The aim of the research was to determine the relationships between perception of illness and social support, with the indicators of the adequacy of the renal replacement treatment and the level of urea as a biomarker of disease offset.

Material and methods. The study was conducted on a group of 150 patients who were on chronic hemodialysis, and who were suffering from end stage renal disease. The patients were treated at on of the several Fresenius Medical centres. As a group, average Kt/V value was 1.45 (SD=0.22) and the URR ratio 71.78 (SD=5.95). Moreover, average urea concentration before HD equaled to 133.78mg% (SD=39.68) and after hemodialysis - 38.22mg% (SD=14.60). The research procedure was based on a questionnaire study. This applied three standardized scales: the Imagination and Perception of Illness Scale (IPIS), the brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-Brief) and the Berlin Social Support Scale (BSSS).

Results. Patients who exhibited higher values of urea concentration in the blood serum measured before HD, perceived their disease (IPIS scale) as causing more motivation loss to carrying out specific activities, as well as mental and physical sphere destruction, pessimism and lost control over the disease. What is more, higher values of urea reduction ratio (URR) positively correlate with the loss of control over the disease (r=-0.20, p=0.024). Moreover, patients characterized by higher values of urea concentration in the blood serum before hemodialysis, evinced greater need for social support (BSSS).

Conclusions. The need for social support among ESRD patients treated by hemodialysis does not correlate with dialysis adequacy indicators. Furthermore, the level of urea marked before hemodialysis exhibits an interdependence with psychological determinants of illness perception and social support.
The Nutritional Knowledge of Pregnant Women
Authors: Książek Piotr , Kozłowiec Joanna , Kozłowiec Monika
Published: May 2015

Introduction. Rational nutrition of women during pregnancy has a great influence on the developing fetus. In the properly developing pregnancy, woman should eat 3-4 quality meals per day. What is more, for the proper development of the fetus, as well as the placenta, uterus and the mammary gland, it is necessary to consume high-value protein products. Moreover, vitamins and mineral compounds are important due to the serious implications that arise if not properly provided.

Aim. The aim of the paper is to assess the nutritional practices, the level of knowledge held by pregnant women with respect to proper nourishment practices, and to define the influence of level of formal education achieved upon this issue.

Material and methods. The research involved 87 pregnant women who were under the care of the outpatient women's health centre and high-risk pregnancy unit of the Regional Specialist Hospital in Biała Podlaska.

Results and discussion. According to most of the female respondents, information concerning proper nutrition of pregnant women is not generally available. Because of this, in completing the questionnaire, more than half of the subjects stated that they often consume white bakery products, white rice and refined pasta - with insufficient consumption of brown bread, rice and wholemeal pasta. Furthermore, while the respondents seem to consume the proper amount of potatoes, barely 8% consume other vegetables with the advised frequency. Moreover, only 31% of the respondents take-in fruits in necessary quantities. However, a majority of them frequently consume milk, yoghurt, cheese, kefir and buttermilk; plus, more than half of the respondents drink at least 1-2 litres of various kinds of liquids per day. Our results also reveal that they very rarely consume fresh fish, poultry and red beef meat, preferring cooked products. Indeed, the respondents stated that they consume meat and fish mainly in a fried form, while 52.9% of the women take-in fast food products. Of note, the surveyed women prefer animal fats. In addition, nearly 70% of the subjects consume too many eggs. Furthermore, more than 40% consume an excessive amount of sugar and sweets. To conclude, the proper amount of meals is consumed by only 52.7% of the respondents, no matter their formal education level.

Conclusions. Many abnormalities were found while verifying negatively the hypothesis, according to which, level of formal education achieved has an impact on the increase of consciousness in terms of proper nourishment during the pregnancy.
The Attitude of the Students of the Academy of Physical Education to Smoking Habits
Authors: Wójtowicz-Chomicz Katarzyna , Czeczuk Anna , Huk-Wieliczuk Elżbieta , Borzęcki Andrzej
Published: May 2015

Introduction. Poland is among the top ten countries of the European Union displaying the highest intensity of smoking.

Aim. To evaluate the frequency and intensity of smoking, the strength of nicotine addiction and the motivation to discontinue smoking, among students of the Academy of Physical Education.

Material and methods. First, a survey involving an anonymous questionnaire (which included both the Fageström and Schneider tests), was conducted within a population of 276 students. Next, this was analyzed statistically using the Statystica 7.1 program.

Results. The initial results of this research showed that 29, 71% of all respondents smoke cigarettes. Moreover, the applied Fageström test revealed that the test population was either: slightly addicted (44, 72% of all respondents), moderately addicted (34, 84% of all respondents), or heavily addicted (17.44%).

Conclusions. The prevalence of smoking among students of the Academy of Physical Education remains alarming. Furthermore, the negative health behaviors contribute to an adverse overview of the health of the questioned students.
The Efficacy of Alcohol-Antibiotic Lock Therapy for Treatment of Catheter Related Bloodstream Infections in Patients Receiving Home Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: ławiński Michał , Majewska Krystyna , Fołtyn Iwona , Gradowska Aleksandra
Published: May 2015

In patients with chronic gastrointestinal tract failure, requiring access to the venous system, the subsequent catheter re-insertion are leading to large veins thrombosis impeding or preventing the insertion of another catheter and exposing patients to the risk of complications. Understanding the pathophysiology of catheter-related infections, enabled to use methods allowing to eradicate the source of infection without removal and replacement of central catheter with a new one. In our center, for many years we have been using an alternative method involving implementation of the alcohol-antibiotic lock in the treatment of infections. This method is based on the assumption that the destruction of biofilm with concentrated alcohol will enable antibiotic penetration and killing other microorganisms. Treatment with alcohol-antibiotic lock lasts from 8 to 10 days and involves filling the catheter with 96% alcohol followed by a solution of the antibiotic of high concentration.

of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of treatment of catheter-related bloodstream infections with two methods (catheter replacement with a new one and the alcohol-antibiotic lock therapy) in patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN).

. 428 HPN in the period from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2010. Among which 240 (56%) of women with an average age of 56.5±16 years and 188 (44%) of men with an average age of 54±17 years. The indications to HPN were as follows: short bowel syndrome in 298 (70%) patients, multilevel obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract in 52 (12%), postoperative gastrointestinal fistulas in 48 (11.2%), malabsorption syndrome in 17 (4%), motility disorders in 6, cachexia in 4 and radiation enteritis in 3 patients.

. In 247 (57.5%) from 428 patients, no episode of catheter-related bloodstream infection was found, while 181 were diagnosed with 352 episodes of catheter-related bloodstream infections. In 40 (9.4%) from 428 patients, 168 (47.8%) episodes have been found - almost a half. The mean duration of treatment of patients receiving home parenteral nutrition, starting from the first episode of catheterrelated bloodstream infection, in 48 patients treated with the lock was equal to 1053+748 days, and in 133 patients treated with catheter replacement was equal to 952+709 days (t-test p = 0.62).

. The survival time of patients treated with alcohol-antibiotic lock is the same as in patients treated with the catheter removal and insertion of the new one. The use of alcohol-antibiotic lock to treat catheter-related bloodstream infections in order to eradicate selected microorganisms that colonize the lumen and cause an infection, is as effective as catheter replacement with a new one.
ThE Prognostic Role of Comorbidities in Older Patients Qualified for Emergency Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Kenig Jakub , Richter Piotr , Olszewska Urszula , Żychiewicz Beata
Published: May 2015

Until now, the literature about the influence of specific comorbid conditions on outcome of emergency abdominal surgery in polish elderly patients is scars.

was to determine the prognostic role of comorbidities in patients qualified for emergency abdominal surgery.

. One hundred and eighty four consecutive patients(98 female and 86 male). 65 years of age were prospectively enrolled. The mean age was 76.9±5.8 (range 65-100) years old.

. Only 16% of patients did not have any preoperative comorbidity. The 30-day mortality was 24.5% (45 patients). The 30-day morbidity was experienced by the 58.7% (108 patients), including 40 patients (21.7%) with minor complications and 68 patients (37%) with major complications, according to the Clavien-Dindo complications scale.

The dysrhythmia (odds ratio 1.6, 95% CI 1.2-2.6, p=0.02), vascular disease (odds ratio 2.1, 95% CI 1.4- 3.1, p=0.02) and renal disease (odds ratio 1.4, 95% CI 1.2-2.8, p=0.01) were independent risk factors of 30-day morbidity. The vascular disease was also the independent risk factor of 30-day postoperative death in the multivariate regression analysis (odds ratio 1.9, 95% CI 1.3-2.8, p=0.001).

Preoperative comorbidities are common among elderly patients qualified for emergency abdominal surgery. However, only some of them (the dysrhythmia, the vascular disease and the renal disease) are independent risk factors of postoperative adverse outcomes. Therefore, number of comorbidies alone should not be the reason for a limited treatment.
Evaluation of the Learning Curve for Intraoperative Neural Monitoring of the Recurrent Laryngeal Nerves in Thyroid Surgery*
Authors: Pragacz Krzysztof , Barczyński Marcin
Published: May 2015

Intraoperative neuromonitoring facilitates identification of the recurrent laryngeal nerves (RLN) and allows for predicting their postoperative function. Nevertheless, the outcome of thyroid surgery monitoring is affected by both the experience of the operator and his mastering of the technique.

was the assessment of the learning curve for intraoperative RLN neuromonitoring.

. The prospective analysis included 100 consecutive thyroid operations performed by a single surgeon during implementation of RLN neuromonitoring in a district surgical ward in Staszów. RLN neuromonitoring was performed in keeping with the recommendations of the International Neural Monitoring Study Group using a C2 NerveMonitor (Inomed, Germany). The outcomes of initial 50 procedures (group I: 08/2012-07/2013) were compared with the results of subsequent 50 operations (group II: 08/2013-07/2014). The evaluation included demographic and intraoperative data along with predictive value of the method and complications.

. In group II as compared to group I, a significant reduction of operative time was noted (102.1±19.4 vs 109.9±19; p=0.045), along with an increased percentage of identified RLNs (99% vs 89.2%; p=0.006), a decreased percentage of correction-requiring technical errors (8% vs 24%; p=0.029), an improved negative predictive (99% vs 89.3%; p<0.001) and positive value (75% vs 55.6%; p<0.001), as well as a decreased percentage of RLN injuries (3% vs 14%; p=0.006).

. Mastering the technique of intraoperative RLN neuromonitoring in thyroid surgery requires the surgeon to perform independently approximately 50 monitored procedures, what allows for achieving the predictive value of the method that is comparable to outcomes published by referral centers.
Spontaneous Pneumoperitoneum in a Patient After Ventilation Therapy
Authors: Marian Kuczia , Monika Kurowska , Bartosz Kubica
Published: May 2015

Free gas in the peritoneal cavity is not always associated with gastrointestinal perforation. The study presented a case of a 72-year old male patient with peritoneal emphysema, which developed after ventilation therapy. Suspecting gastrointestinal perforation the patient was subjected to laparotomy, which did not show perforation. The patient was diagnosed with spontaneous pneumoperitoneum. The patient died, due to cardiopulmonary and neurological disturbances. Withdrawal from non-therapeutic laparotomy may prove crucial in similar cases.
Benign Histology After Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Suspected Malignancy. Lessons to be Learned – a Single Centre Experience
Authors: Azamfirei Leonard , Zen Yoh , Peddu Praveen , Jain Rajeev , Patel AmeetG. , Atkinson Simon , Srinivasan Parthi , Rela Mohammed , Heaton Nigel , Prachalias Andreas
Published: May 2015

was to perform a comprehensive analysis of patients with a benign final histology after pancreaticoduodenectomies (PD) for suspected pancreatic and periampullary cancer.

. We searched the pathology database at the King's College Hospital for negative PD specimens submitted between January 2004-December 2010. Clinical, diagnostic, surgical, histopathological and outcome data were collected retrospectively. Pathology specimens and imaging results have been re-evaluated. A literature review was performed to identify factors affecting the incidence across centres.

. 469 PD were performed for presumed cancer. The incidence of benign disease encountered in this group was 7.25% (34/469). Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) was a finding in 26.47% (9/34) of cases. 17.65% of PD were complicated by a pancreatic leak and the overall mortality rate was 8.82% (3/34). Radiologists revised over 75% of pre-operative diagnoses. The incidence of benign disease was correlated with the overall centre experience and utilisation of CT imaging, but not ERCP or EUS. Conclusions. It is impossible with current diagnostics to entirely avoid cases of benign disease in patients undergoing PD for suspected cancer. The mortality rate is higher in this group, but it is possible to avoid unnecessary procedures in experienced centres. AIP represents an important diagnostic entity, which should be actively pursued pre-operatively.
Groin Hernia Surgery in Northern Ghana - Humanitarian Mission of Polish Surgeons in Tamale
Authors: Mitura Kryspin , Kozieł Sławomir , Pasierbek MichaŁ
Published: May 2015

Availability of surgical care in Africa is severely limited. This is due to the lack of surgeons and a small number of public hospitals. Only 25 out of 100,000 patients with inguinal hernia undergo a surgical treatment. As many as 65% of inguinal hernia repairs are performed urgently because of incarceration. Among patients with incarceration who do not reach the hospital there is recorded as many as 87 deaths per 100 cases. In order to improve the availability of treatment of inguinal hernia in Africa, humanitarian medical missions involving surgeons from Europe are organized. During regular visits to selected centers in Africa, they also carry out intensified treatment of patients and training of the local staff.

was to present the experience of Polish surgeons from the humanitarian medical mission in Tamale in northern Ghana undertaken in fall of 2014.

. Surgical repair was performed in 87 patients (74 men – 85% and 13 women – 15%) between the ages of 26 to 70 years (mean 52.8 years; SD 10.3), who underwent a total of 98 inguinal hernia repairs under local anesthesia.

. Lichtenstein procedure was performed in 93 and Desarda technique in 5 patients. Patients reported the long-term presence of hernia symptoms - from one to 7 years (mean 3.4 years, SD 1.4). In most patients, hernia occurred more than 3 years earlier (61 patients; 70%). There were no intraoperative complications. All patients were discharged the next day after surgery. There was one wound infection in postoperative period which required mesh explantation.

. Inguinal hernia commonly found in Ghana is a major issue for the inefficient health care system. Humanitarian medical missions can help to improve the treatment results, as long as they are carried out periodically and allow for training of local personnel. Scarce equipment of medical facilities in Ghana is not a significant difficulty in performing the Lichtenstein repair under the local anesthesia.
Evaluation of the Early Results of a Loop Stoma with a Plastic Rod in Comparison to a Loop Stoma Made with a Skin Bridge
Authors: Dziki Łukasz , Mik Michł , Trzciński Radzisław , Buczyński Jarosław , Darnikowska Justyna , Spychalski Michał , Wierzbicka Anna , Dziki Adam
Published: May 2015

Loop stoma allows reducing the percentage of anastomotic leak and re-operation caused bythis complication. Our department has performed the loop stoma on a skin bridge since 2011.

was to evaluate the early results of treatment after the skin bridge loop stoma creation in comparison with the stoma made on a plastic rod. Both groups had 20 patients.

The study involved 40 patients with ileostomy, operated 2010-2013. We evaluated 20 patients with a loop ileostomy on a plastic rod, compared to 20 other patients with a skinbridge ileostomy. The study included 24 men and 16 women. Median age was 68.3. All evaluated patients were previously operated due to rectal cancer.

. It has been shown that the surgical site infection is more common in the group with a plastic rod (5 vs 1 patient). Inflammation of the skin around the stoma occurred in 18 patients (90%) in the first group, while no such complication was found in patients in the second group. The average number of exchanged ostomy wafers was 2,9 per weekin the first group of patients, and 1,1 in the second group (p 0,05).

. The creation of the skin bridge stoma allows for tight fit of the ostomy appliance immediately after surgery completion. The equipment has stable and long-lasting contact with the skin, no skin inflammatory changes occur. Also the surgical site infection rates are lower in this group of patients. As perioperative patient does not require an increased number of ostomy appliance, the cost of treatment can be considered as an important aspect.
Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor Within Ileal Intussusception as the Cause of Recurrent Abdominal Pain in a 57-Year Old Patient
Authors: Waszak Magdalena , Sokólska ElŻbieta , Banaszkiewicz Zbigniew , Bała Artur , Korenkiewicz Łukasz
Published: May 2015

The study presented a rare case of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) in a 57-year old male patient who presented with recurrent abdominal pain. He was diagnosed to have a tumor of the small intestine within ileal intussusception, demonstrated by CT enterography. The patient underwent surgery to remove the tumor with a margin of healthy tissue. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examination results enabled to diagnose IMT. IMT is a rare tumor that occurs mainly in children and young adults. Its etiology remains to be fully understood. Due to the differentiated histology it can be found in many organs and soft tissues, being responsible for different, non-specific clinical and radiological symptoms. Due to the rarity of this tumor a clear treatment protocol has not yet been established. However, given the tendency to recur with possible distant metastases an important element of treatment consists in long-term clinical patient observation.
Laparoscopy-Assisted Total Gastrectomy with D2 Lymphadenectomy and Roux-En-Y Reconstruction - Case Report
Authors: Papaj Piotr , Kozieł Sławomir , Śleziński Przemysław , Dobija-Kubica Katarzyna , Wróbel Józef
Published: May 2015

We report a case of patient with stage IIIb gastric cancer qualified for laparoscopy - assisted gastrectomy and our first impressions about this procedure. Total gastrectomy with complete omentectomy and extended lymphadenectomy (D2) was performed laparoscopically. The intestinal continuity was restored in a Roux-en-Y mode extracorporeally through the abdominal access system. The orogastric tube with anvil of the circular stapler was transorally introduced into the esophagus. Subsequently, intracorporeal stapling esophagojejunostomy was performed. There were no complications after the operation and the patient was discharged in good shape. Oncological radicality was sufficient and patient has undergone chemotherapy treatment.
Tourist Potential of the łęczna-Włodawa Lakeland and Its Application in the Context of the Functioning of the Polesie National Park
Authors: Świeca Andrzej , Krukowska Renata , Tucki Andrzej
Published: May 2015

Introduction
. The conducted study regarding the environmental and cultural tourism values, level of management and transport accessibility, as well as selected elements of the tourism policy of the local authorities involved the determination of the tourist potential of the łęczna-Włodawa Lakeland. Areas of the łęczna-Włodawa Lakeland most attractive in terms of landscape are under protection in the form of the Polesie National Park. The article discusses the issue of the tourist exploration of the PNP. It presents information on the tourism management and tourist traffic rate and variability in the years 1993-2013.
Material and methods
. The article was prepared based on direct observations and research by the authors in the łęczna-Włodawa Lakeland. The research procedure performed in 15 communes involved the analysis of factors influencing the features of the tourist space of the łęczna-Włodawa Lakeland. The tourist potential of the communes was assessed based on 18 features classified into three groups (tourist values, tourist management, and transport accessibility). The assessment was expressed in numerical values of synthetic measures of tourist attractiveness specified for each of the communes. The tourist attractiveness of the area and degree of development of the tourist and holiday function were assessed in the context of the description of its tourist potential.
Results
. The synthetic measures of tourist attractiveness calculated by means of the method of multidimensional comparative analysis varied from 0.142 (Hańsk) to 0.368 (Włodawa). Out of 15 communes located in the Lakeland, 5 communes were classified as very attractive, 7 as attractive, and 3 as moderately attractive. The very attractive communes include: Włodawa, Urszulin, Sosnowica, Uścimów, and Ludwin. Very attractive communes are distinguished by the highest degree of development of the holiday function. They show a varied degree of activity of the authorities - Włodawa (high activity), Sosnowica, Uścimów, Ludwin (moderate activity), and Urszulin (no activity). Very attractive communes show a varied degree of development of the tourist function. It is the basic function for Włodawa, supplementary function for Uścimów, and additional function for Sosnowica, Ludwin, and Urszulin.
Conclusion
. The organisation of tourism space in the łęczna-Włodawa Lakeland in the area of the Polesie National Park offers extensive possibilities of practicing various forms of tourism while maintaining the good condition of the environment.
Structure of Coordination Motor Abilities in Male Basketball Players at Different Levels of Competition
Authors: Jerzy Sadowski , Paweł WoŁosz , Janusz Zieliński , Tomasz Niźnikowski , Mariusz Buszta
Published: May 2015

Introduction
. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the structure of coordination motor abilities (CMA) in male basketball players at different levels of competition.
Material and methods
. The study included 183 male basketball players from 10 Polish sports clubs. The examined groups consisted of seniors (n=42) aged 24.5 (± 3.3), juniors (n=37) aged 16.8 (± 0.6), cadets (n=54) aged 14.5 (± 0.1) and children (n=50) aged 13.4 (± 0.2). A battery of motor tests was administered to assess the following CMA: kinesthetic differentiation of movements, spatio-temporal orientation, reaction time, movement coupling, sense of balance, sense of rhythm and adjustment of movements. The structure of CMA under investigation was determined based on the results of Hotelling's principal component analysis in Tucker's modification, completed with Kaiser's Varimax rotation [1, 2].
Results
. The CMA structure of basketball players was composed of three or four factors. Most often these included rhythm, movement differentiation, movement coupling and adjustment of movements. Less frequently the structure consisted of spatio-temporal orientation, balance and reaction time. An in-depth analysis of the CMA structure revealed that factors ranged from heterogeneous (children and cadets) to homogeneous ones (juniors and seniors). The distribution of identified factors in the common variance was the smallest in children and cadets (58.9% and 62.9%, respectively) and the biggest in juniors and seniors (69.3% and 68.48%, respectively).
Immunohistochemical detection of P-glycoprotein in various subtypes of canine lymphomas
Authors: Sokołowska J. , Urbańska K. , Giziński S. , Zabielska K. , Lechowski R.
Published: May 2015

Combination chemiotherapy is the current standard of care for dogs with lymphoma. Multidrug resistance is one of the most important factors contributing to the efficacy of chemiotherapy. The major protein responsible for this phenomenon is P-glycoprotein. Little is known about P-glycoprotein expression in particular subtypes of lymphomas. The aim of the study was evaluation of P-glycoprotein expression in various subtypes of canine lymphomas. Positive reaction with P-glycoprotein was found in 12/25 cases of various morphological subtypes of lymphomas, however, in 3/11 lymphomas the percentage of positively weakly stained cells was <10% and those tumors were also considered negative. Tumors with 10-50% P-glycoprotein positive cells were found in single cases of centroblastic and centroblastic-centrocytic tumors. In 5 lymphomas P-glycoprotein expression exceeded 50% of tumor cells. Those cases were found among centroblastic, centroblastic-centrocytic, lymphoblastic and Burkitt-like subtypes. Positive reaction was observed mainly in the cell cytoplasm, however, in some cases prominent perinuclear dot-like staining pattern was found. In 2 cases focal staining pattern comprised dominant type of immunolabelling. Among all lymphomas containing P-glycoprotein positive cells intensity of imunolabelling was assessed as weak (6/25), moderate (2/25) and strong (3/25). Our results indicate that P-glycoprotein expression is present in nearly one third of newly diagnosed canine lymphomas of different morphological subtypes including those most commonly occurring, such as cenroblastic lymphomas. Hence, determination of P-glycoprotein expression at the time of diagnosis could provide valuable information for the design of treatment protocols. Moreover, our results have shown that P-glycoprotein expression in canine tumors could be located in Golgi-zone.
Zearalenone induces apoptosis and inhibits proliferation in porcine ileal Peyer's patch lymphocytes
Authors: Obremski K. , Poniatowska-Broniek G.
Published: May 2015

Zearalenone (ZEN) is one of the most active natural estrogenic compounds that induces apoptosis. This study has been prompted by the widespread occurrence of ZEN in food and feed and limited knowledge about the effects of exposure to low doses of ZEN on the immune system. The aim of the study was to verify the hypothesis that low doses of ZEN contribute to induction of apoptosis and inhibition of proliferation in lymphocytes of the germinal centers (GC) of ileal Peyer's patches (IPP) in pigs. The experiment was performed on 30 female Polish Large White pigs, aged 2 months, with body weight of 15-18 kg, divided into two groups: control (C, n=15) and experimental (Z, n=15). On days 14, 28 and 42 of exposure to ZEN (100 μg kg−1 feed day−1), apoptosis in IPP GC was evaluated histologically in HE-stained specimens, immunohistochemically by active caspase-3 staining and in mononucleosome and oligonucleosome detection-based ELISA. Proliferation was evaluated histologically by mitosis detection in HE-stained specimens, immunohistochemically by PCNA staining and in the MTT tetrazolium salt colorimetric assay detecting mitogenic responses of B cells to LPS. Exposure to low doses of ZEN for several weeks intensified apoptosis and weakened proliferation in IPP lymphocytes. ZEN influences gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) by decreasing the expression of CD21+ on B cells and by increasing the percentage of B1 cell populations.
The use of elements of the Stewart model (Strong Ion Approach) for the diagnostics of respiratory acidosis on the basis of the calculation of a value of a modified anion gap (AGm) in brachycephalic dogs
Authors: Sławuta P. , Glińska-Suchocka K. , Cekiera A.
Published: May 2015

Apart from the HH equation, the acid-base balance of an organism is also described by the Stewart model, which assumes that the proper insight into the ABB of the organism is given by an analysis of: pCO2, the difference of concentrations of strong cations and anions in the blood serum – SID, and the total concentration of nonvolatile weak acids – Acid total. The notion of an anion gap (AG), or the apparent lack of ions, is closely related to the acid-base balance described according to the HH equation. Its value mainly consists of negatively charged proteins, phosphates, and sulphates in blood. In the human medicine, a modified anion gap is used, which, including the concentration of the protein buffer of blood, is, in fact, the combination of the apparent lack of ions derived from the classic model and the Stewart model. In brachycephalic dogs, respiratory acidosis often occurs, which is caused by an overgrowth of the soft palate, making it impossible for a free air flow and causing an increase in pCO2– carbonic acid anhydride The aim of the present paper was an attempt to answer the question whether, in the case of systemic respiratory acidosis, changes in the concentration of buffering ions can also be seen. The study was carried out on 60 adult dogs of boxer breed in which, on the basis of the results of endoscopic examination, a strong overgrowth of the soft palate requiring a surgical correction was found. For each dog, the value of the anion gap before and after the palate correction procedure was calculated according to the following equation: AG = ([Na+mmol/l] + [K+mmol/l]) – ([Cl−mmol/l]+[HCO3−mmol/l]) as well as the value of the modified AG – according to the following equation: AGm= calculated AG + 2.5 × (albuminsr– albuminsd). The values of AG calculated for the dogs before and after the procedure fell within the limits of the reference values and did not differ significantly whereas the values of AGmcalculated for the dogs before and after the procedure differed from each other significantly. Conclusions: 1) On the basis of the values of AGmobtained it should be stated that in spite of finding respiratory acidosis in the examined dogs, changes in ion concentration can also be seen, which, according to the Stewart theory, compensate metabolic ABB disorders 2) In spite of the fact that all the values used for calculation of AGmwere within the limits of reference values, the values of AGmin dogs before and after the soft palate correction procedure differed from each other significantly, which proves high sensitivity and usefulness of the AGmcalculation as a diagnostic method.
Immunohistochemical diagnostic of hibernoma in dog
Authors: Dzimira S. , Kapuśniak V. , Madej J.A.
Published: May 2015

The diagnosis of hibernoma is uncommon in veterinary medicine. In this report, we present an attempt to confirm hibernoma diagnosed in dogs by applying immunohistochemical tests routinely used in human pathology i.e. antibodies specific to protein S100, protein CD31, or smooth muscle actin (SMA).
Selected qualitative and biochemical parameters of cryopreserved semen of Holstein-Friesian (HF) AI bulls
Authors: Lecewicz M. , Hering D.M. , Kamiński S. , Majewska A. , Kordan W.
Published: May 2015

Selected qualitative and biochemical parameters were determined in cryopreserved semen used for artificial insemination, sampled from 120 bulls reared at the Animal Breeding and Insemination Center in Bydgoszcz. The total average motility of the analyzed sperm samples was determined at 62.51%. The percentage of motile spermatozoa displaying progressive forward motility was 21.65%. Analyzed samples were characterized by a high percentage of sperm cells with a intact plasma membrane (71.21%) and active mitochondria (71.32%). High efficiency of the enzymatic antioxidant system of the evaluated sperm cells was demonstrated by high activity of CAT, GPx and SOD (494.37, 2847.83 and 5.31U/1×109 spermatozoa, respectively) values and low values of the DNA Fragmentation Index (9.32). The results of the study, obtained with the involvement of advanced analytical methods, indicate a high fertilizing capability of the analyzed sperm samples.
Temperature Effects on the Seed Germination of Some Perennial and Annual Species of Asteraceae Family
Authors: Zarghani Hadi , Mijani Sajad , Nasrabadi Samieh Eskandari
Published: May 2015

Temperature is the most critical factor determining success or failure of plant establishment. Seed germination response of five medicinal species include three seed-propagated perennial species, Cichorium intybus, cynara scolymus and Echinacea purpurea and vegetative-reproduction perennial species, Achillea millefolium and annual species, Matricaria aurea were assessed at constant temperatures. The seeds were exposed to constant temperatures of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45°C under total darkness. Germination percentage of all the species were significantly affected by various temperatures (p ≤ 0.001). A. millefolium did not germinate at 5-10 and 35-45°C, but showed noticeable germination percentage (73.3-100%) at temperatures ranged from 15-30° C. The highest total germination percentage was observed within the range of 15-35 °C for other species. Also, we calculated cardinal temperatures (the minimum, optimum and maximum temperature) for seed germination of species. The highest value for minimum temperature was 10.07ºC in A. millefolium followed by C. scolymus and M. aurea (5ºC) while the lowest was for E. purpurea and C. intybus (2.68 and 2.90ºC respectively). The lowest value for optimum temperature was detected in A. millefolium (22.72ºC) and M. aurea (23.88°C) while the maximum values were observed in E. purpurea and C. intybus (30.40ºC and 29.90ºC respectively). Based on results of present study we concluded that species with both vegetative and seed-propagated reproduction forms like A. millefolium had smaller temperature range rather those with just one way of reproduction (seed production).
The Generative Development of Traditional and Self-Completing (Restricted Branching) Cultivars of White Lupin (Lupinus Albus L.), Yellow Lupin (L.Luteus L.) and Narrow-Lafed Lupin (L. Angustifolius L.) Grown under Different Phytotron Conditions
Authors: Frankowski Kamil , Wilmowicz Emilia , Mączkowski Rafał , Marciniak Katarzyna , Kopcewicz Jan
Published: May 2015

Increasing the number of flowers and pods set, as well as reducing the intensity of their abortion, is of crucial importance for the yielding of leguminous plants. This study examined the effects of the type of soil used and mineral fertilization applied on the generative development of the traditional and self-completing (restricted branching) cultivars of white lupin (Lupinus albus L.), yellow lupin (L. luteus L.) and narrow-lafed lupin (L. angustifolius L.) cultivated under controlled phytotron conditions. Experiments carried out under such conditions allow for the elimination of variable environmental factors affecting the course of plant ontogenesis in field cultivation, and enable unambiguous interpretation of the biochemical and molecular influence of a selected factor on the physiological process studied. For the first time, the influence of different cultivation factors on generative development of traditional and selfcompleting (restricted branching) cultivars of lupins under phytotrone was examined.

The research results presented here indicate that each of the selected lupin cultivars has its own characteristic cultivation conditions that are optimal for its generative development. The largest number of flowers were formed by the traditional cultivars of L. luteus and L. angustifolius, as well as the self-completing (restricted branching) cultivars of L. luteus and L. albus grown in class IIIa soil material. The lowest flower abortion rate was observed in L. albus grown in class V soil material, in L. luteus grown in class IIIa soil material, and in L. angustifolius grown in class IVa soil material. Regardless of the cultivation conditions applied, in all of the lupin cultivars examined the first pods to be set were characterized by the lowest abortion rate. The results obtained allowed for the development of lupin phytotron cultivation models for the purposes of research on generative development control.
Electronic Navigational Chart as an Equivalent to Image Produced by Hypercatadioptric Camera System
Authors: Naus Krzysztof
Published: May 2015

This paper presents a dynamic hyperboloidal mapping model aimed at building image of electronic navigational chart which constitutes an equivalent to that obtained from a hypercatadioptric camera system. In the 1st part, space and three reference frames located in it are defined. These are: the observer frame and horizontal topocentric frame considered secondary (both connected with water-surface platform), and the geocentric frame, primary one. The 2nd part provides description of a way of interconnection between the observer frame and horizontal topocentric one as well as of determination of their location in relation to the geocentric reference frame, depending on course and position of water-surface platform. In the final part is presented a model of panoramic image mapping in the observer reference frame and principles of generating ENC image by using dynamic hyperboloidal mapping. Finally, conclusions indicating possible applications of the developed model are presented.
New insights into the 21 November 2000 tsunami in West Greenland from analyses of the tree−ring structure of Salix glauca
Authors: Buchwał Agata , Szczuciński Witold , Strzelecki Mateusz C. , Long Antony J.
Published: May 2015

We test the application of dendrochronological methods for dating and assessing the environmental impacts of tsunamis in polar regions, using an example of the 21 Novem− ber 2000 landslide−generated tsunami in Vaigat Strait (Sullorsuaq Strait), West Greenland. The studied tsunami inundated a c. 130 m−wide coastal plain with seawater, caused erosion of beaches and top soil and covered the area with an up to 35 cm−thick layer of tsunami de− posits composed of sand and gravel. Samples of living shrub, Salix glauca (greyleaf wil− low) were collected in 2012 from tsunami−flooded and non−flooded sites. The tree−ring analyses reveal unambiguously that the tsunami−impacted area was immediately colonized during the following summer by rapidly growing shrubs, whilst one of our control site spec− imens records evidence for damage that dates to the time of the tsunami. This demonstrates the potential for dendrochronological methods to act as a precise tool for the dating of Arc− tic paleotsunamis, as well as rapid post−tsunami ecosystem recovery. The reference site shrubs were likely damaged by solifluction in the autumn 2000 AD that was triggered by high seasonal rainfall, which was itself a probable contributory factor to the tsunami−gener− ating landslide.
How Should Journal Editors Respond to Cases of Suspected Misconduct?
Authors: Wager Elizabeth
Published: May 2015

Journals and institutions have important complementary roles to play in cases of suspected research and publication misconduct. Journals should take responsibility for everything they publish and should alert institutions to cases of possible serious misconduct but should not attempt to investigate such cases. Institutions should take responsibility for their researchers and for investigating cases of possible misconduct and for ensuring journals are informed if they have published unreliable or misleading articles so that these can be retracted or corrected. Journals and institutions should have policies in place for handling such cases and these policies should respect their different roles.
Carotid Artery Disease in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Bosevski Marijan
Published: May 2015

There are two points of view on the interplay between carotid artery disease and diabetes mellitus: Diabetes mellitus has been recognized as one of the main determinants for the presence and progression of asymptomatic and symptomatic carotid artery disease; and carotid intima-media thickness has been defined as a useful tool for risk stratification of this population.

Hyperglycaemia, duration of diabetes, arterial hypertension, cholesterol and inflammatory markers have previously been determined as independent factors for carotid atherosclerosis in diabetes, and aging as its predictor in this population by our own results. This paper focuses on the particularities of risk factors in diabetic patients (especially in type 2) and evidence-based guidelines for the management and risk reduction of these patients with stroke and/or carotid artery disease.

At present, carotid ultrasound is recommended in diabetic patients with cerebrovascular symptoms. Since the prevalence of diabetes increases constantly, we attempt to address refreshment of criteria for screening of carotid artery disease in the diabetic population. It could be recommended for diabetic patients with at least one more risk factors and for diabetic patients above 60 years of age.
Brief Communication of Assessment of Clinical Practice Regarding Pharmacological Treatment of Epilepsy: A Survey of Neurologists in Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Cvetkovska Emilija , Kuzmanovski Igor , Boshkovski Bojan
Published: May 2015

A questionnaire of 15 items was developed in order to evaluate clinical practice regarding pharmacological treatment of epilepsy among adult neurologists in R. Macedonia. It was mailed to 30 practising neurologists, 24 answered (80%). Half of them administer AED after a first unprovoked seizure considering EEG and MRI, while others usually wait for a second one before introducing treatment. Discontinuation of treatment should be individualized. Carbamazepine and lamotrigine are the most frequently prescribed first-line drugs for partial seizures; second choices include a number of older and new generation AEDs. For generalized tonic-clonic seizures, absences, myoclonic, mixed or undetermined seizures, valproate is by far the most commonly used AED. The survey showed that prescription patterns are in accordance with current evidence about the spectrum of efficacy of individual AEDs in different types of seizures. Yet some results are a cause of concern and continuous education of the neurological community on AED treatment of epilepsy is needed.
Analysis of Radiographic Bone Parameters Throughout the Surgical Lengthening and Deformity Correction of Extremities
Authors: Atanasov Nenad , Poposka Anastasika , Samardziski Milan , Kamnar Viktor
Published: May 2015

Background: Radiographic examination of extremities in surgical lengthening and/or correction of deformities is of crucial importance for the assessment of new bone formation. The purpose of this study is to confirm the diagnostic value of radiography in precise detection of bone parameters in various lengthening or correction stages in patients treated by limb-lengthening and deformity correction.

Patients and Methods: 50 patients were treated by the Ilizarov method of limb lengthening or deformity correction at the University Orthopaedic Surgery Clinic in Skopje, and analysed over the period from 2006 to 2012. The patients were divided into two groups. The first group consisted of 27 patients with limb-lengthening because of congenital shortening. The second group consisted of 23 patients treated for acquired limb deformities. The results in both groups were received in three stages of new bone formation and were based on the appearance of 3 radiographic parameters at the distraction/compression site.

Results: The differences between the presence of all radiographic bone parameters in different stages of new bone formation were statistically signficant in both groups, especially the presence of the cortical margin in the first group (Cochran Q = 34.43, df = 2, p = 0.00000). The comparative analysis between the two groups showed a statistically significant difference in the presence of initial bone elements and cystic formations only in the first stage.

Discussion and Conclusions: Almost no statistical significance in the differences between both groups of patients with regard to 3 radiographic parameters in 3 stages of new bone formation, indicates a minor influence of the etiopathogenetic background on the new bone formation in patients treated by gradual lengthening or correction of limb deformities.
History and Development of Anaesthesiology (With Resuscitation and Intensive Medicine) in the Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Sholjakova Marija , Nojkov Jordan , Nikolova-Todorova Zorka , Shosholcheva Mirjana , Kartalov Andrijan , Kuzmanovska Biljana
Published: May 2015

Aim: To present a chronological overview of the most important events and actors that have marked the history of anaesthesiology and intensive treatment in R. Macedonia since its beginnings in the 1950s.

Method: Retrospective study based on archive materials, published literature and jubilee publications, as well as the memories of individuals who have worked in the field of anaesthesiology in the past period.

Results: Between the two World Wars the first anaesthesia procedures were handled by surgeons. After World War II, the development of anaesthesia in R. Macedonia could be divided into two periods: before 1965 and after 1965. Before 1965 anaesthesia was mainly given by technicians trained on courses, and after this year anaesthesiology was taken over by anaesthesiologists who had specialized at the Faculty of Medicine in Skopje. In 1985 the number of anaesthesiologists was 100, and today it exceeds 250. The most important figures in the history of Macedonian anaesthesiology are: Dr. Risto Ivanovski, who worked from 1954-78, and Prof. Dr. Vladimir Andonov, who worked as an anaesthesiologist from 1965-99. Both of them are doyens who contributed a lot to the development of the anaesthesiology service and education of anaesthesiologists in R. Macedonia. Intensive treatment had started in 1955, but in real terms it has been performed since 1966, when artificial ventilators were introduced. The modern Intensive Care Department was opened at the Surgical Clinic in 1995 and it was followed in other hospitals in the state. The Department of Anaesthesiology has existed since 1975, and it has made a huge contribution to the education of professionals who apply modern principles in emergency medicine and intensive care.

Conclusion: From modest beginnings in the 1950s, anaesthesiology today in R. Macedonia has developed well organized activity that successfully follow the trends of modern medicine in the field of anesthesiology, resuscitation, intensive care and pain treatment.