bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes Over Time in High Out-of-Pocket Health Care Burden in U.S. Adults With Diabetes, 2001–2011
Authors: Li Rui , Barker Lawrence E. , Shrestha Sundar , Zhang Ping , Duru O. Kenrick , Pearson-Clarke Tony , Gregg Edward W.
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE

High out-of-pocket (OOP) costs can be an obstacle to health care access and treatment compliance. This study investigated trends in high OOP health care burden in people with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Using Medical Expenditure Panel Survey 2001–2011 data, we examined trends in the proportion of people aged 18–64 years with diabetes facing a high OOP burden. We also examined whether the trend differed by insurance status (private insurance, public insurance, or no insurance) or by income level (poor and near poor, low income, middle income, or high income).

RESULTS

In 2011, 23% of people with diabetes faced high OOP burden. Between 2001–2002 and 2011, the proportion of people facing high OOP burden fell by 5 percentage points (P < 0.01). The proportion of those who were publicly insured decreased by 22 percentage points (P < 0.001) and of those who were uninsured by 12 percentage points (P = 0.01). Among people with diabetes who were poor and near poor and those with low income, the proportion facing high OOP burden decreased by 21 (P < 0.001) and 13 (P = 0.01) percentage points, respectively; no significant change occurred in the proportion with private insurance or middle and high incomes between 2001–2002 and 2011.

CONCLUSIONS

The past decade has seen a narrowing of insurance coverage and income-related disparities in high OOP burden in people with diabetes; yet, almost one-fourth of all people with diabetes still face a high OOP burden.
Cardiometabolic Implications of Postpartum Weight Changes in the First Year After Delivery
Authors: Kew Simone , Ye Chang , Hanley Anthony J. , Connelly Philip W. , Sermer Mathew , Zinman Bernard , Retnakaran Ravi
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE

The cumulative effect of postpartum weight retention from each pregnancy in a woman’s life may contribute to her ultimate risk of diabetes and vascular disease. However, there is little direct evidence supporting this hypothesis. In this context, we sought to evaluate the cardiometabolic implications of patterns of postpartum weight change and the time course thereof in the first year after pregnancy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Three hundred five women underwent cardiometabolic characterization at recruitment in pregnancy and at 3 and 12 months postpartum. Based on their respective weight changes between prepregnancy and 3 months postpartum (loss or gain) and between 3 and 12 months postpartum (loss or gain), participants were stratified into four groups: loss/loss, gain/loss, loss/gain, and gain/gain.

RESULTS

Most women (81.0%) had higher weight at 3 months postpartum compared with prepregnancy. Between 3 and 12 months, most women (74.4%) lost weight. At 3 months, there were modest differences between the four groups in mean adjusted LDL cholesterol (P = 0.01) and apolipoprotein-B (apoB; P = 0.02) but no significant differences in adjusted blood pressure, fasting and 2-h glucose, HDL, triglycerides, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), adiponectin, and C-reactive protein. By 12 months postpartum, however, clear gradients emerged, with mean adjusted diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.02), HOMA-IR (P = 0.0003), LDL (P = 0.001), and apoB (P < 0.0001) all progressively increasing from the loss/loss group to gain/loss to loss/gain to gain/gain. Similarly, at 12 months, mean adjusted adiponectin showed a stepwise decrease from loss/loss to gain/loss to loss/gain to gain/gain (P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

An adverse cardiometabolic profile emerges as early as 1 year postpartum in women who do not lose weight between 3 and 12 months after delivery.
Chondroprotective effects of zoledronic acid on articular cartilage in dogs with experimentally induced osteoarthritis
Authors: Dearmin Michael G. , Trumble Troy N. , García AnaPatricia , Chambers Jon N. , Budsberg Steven C.
Published: March 2014

Objective—To assess effects of zoledronic acid on biomarkers, radiographic scores, and gross articular cartilage changes in dogs with induced osteoarthritis.

Animals—21 purpose-bred hound-type dogs.

Procedures—The left stifle joint of each dog was examined arthroscopically to determine initial articular cartilage status, which was followed by cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) transection to induce osteoarthritis. Dogs were assigned to 3 groups (control group, low dose [10 μg of zoledronic acid/kg], or high dose [25 μg of zoledronic acid/kg). Treatments were administered SC every 3 months for 1 year beginning the day after CrCL transection. Serum and synovial fluid samples and radiographs were obtained 0, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after transection. At 12 months, each joint was scored for cartilage defects. Serum and synovial fluid biomarkers of bone and cartilage turnover (bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, type I and II collagen, carboxy-propeptide of type II collagen, and chondroitin sulfate 846) were analyzed with ELISAs.

Results—The high-dose group had fewer total articular defects and lower severity scores in CrCL-transected stifle joints than did the control group. In addition, the high-dose group had significantly less change in collagenase cleavage of type I or II collagen in the synovial fluid at 1 and 3 months after CrCL transection than did the control group and also had greater changes in bone-specific alkaline phosphatase in synovial fluid at 3 months after CrCL transection than did the control group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Zoledronic acid had a chondroprotective effect in dogs with a transected CrCL.
The effects of protamine sulfate on clot formation time and clot strength thromboelastography variables for canine blood samples
Authors: Bailey Christopher J. , Koenigshof Amy M.
Published: March 2014

Objective—To determine the effects of protamine sulfate on clot formation time and clot strength thromboelastography variables for canine whole blood samples.

Animals—Blood samples obtained from 11 healthy dogs.

Procedures—Blood samples were collected from jugular veins of dogs into syringes with 3.2% sodium citrate (blood to citrate ratio, 9:1). Blood samples were divided into aliquots, and protamine sulfate was added to various concentrations (0 [control], 22, 44, and 66 μg/mL). Prepared samples were activated with kaolin (n = 8) or not activated (8), CaCl2 was added, and thromboelastography was performed. Reaction time (R), clot formation time (K), rate of clot formation (α angle), and maximum amplitude (MA) were measured.

Results—For kaolin-activated and nonactivated blood samples, protamine (66 μg/mL) significantly increased R and K and decreased α angle and MA, compared with values for control samples. Also, protamine (44 μg/mL) decreased MA in nonactivated blood samples and increased K and decreased α angle in kaolin-activated samples, compared with values for control samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated protamine prolonged clot formation time and decreased overall clot strength in a dose-dependent manner; such effects may contribute to a hypocoagulable state in dogs. Kaolin-activated and nonactivated blood samples were appropriate for measurement of the effects of protamine on coagulation. Administration of protamine to reverse the effects of heparin should be performed with caution.
High-resolution manometric evaluation of the effects of cisapride and metoclopramide hydrochloride administered orally on lower esophageal sphincter pressure in awake dogs
Authors: Kempf Jennifer , Lewis Fraser , Reusch Claudia E. , Kook Peter H.
Published: March 2014

Objective—To evaluate the effects of cisapride and metoclopramide hydrochloride administered orally on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure in awake healthy dogs.

Animals—6 adult Beagles.

Procedures—Each dog was evaluated after administration of a single dose of cisapride (0.5 mg/kg), metoclopramide (0.5 mg/kg), or placebo (empty gelatin-free capsule) in 3 experiments performed at 3-week intervals. To measure LES pressure, a high-resolution manometry catheter equipped with 40 pressure sensors spaced 10 mm apart was used. For each experiment, LES pressure was recorded during a 20-minute period with a virtual electronic sleeve emulation before treatment (baseline) and at 1, 4, and 7 hours after drug or placebo administration. A linear mixed-effects model was used to test whether the 3 treatments affected LES pressure differently.

Results—In the cisapride, metoclopramide, and placebo experiments, median baseline LES pressures were 29.1, 30.5, and 29.0 mm Hg, respectively. For the cisapride, metoclopramide, and placebo treatments, median LES pressures at 1 hour after administration were 44.4, 37.8, and 36.6 mm Hg, respectively; median LES pressures at 4 hours after administration were 50.7, 30.6, and 31.1 mm Hg, respectively; and median LES pressures at 7 hours after administration were 44.3, 28.5, and 33.3 mm Hg, respectively. The LES pressures differed significantly only between the placebo and cisapride treatments.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that orally administered cisapride may be of benefit in canine patients for which an increase in LES pressure is desirable, whereas orally administered metoclopramide did not affect LES resting pressures in dogs.
Effects of experimental mechanical manipulations on local inflammation in the jejunum of horses
Authors: Hopster-Iversen Charlotte C. S. , Hopster Klaus , Staszyk Carsten , Rohn Karl , Freeman David E. , Rötting Anna K.
Published: March 2014

Objective—To determine characteristics of the inflammatory reaction in the jejunum of horses in response to various mechanical manipulations.

Animals—12 adult warmblood horses without gastrointestinal tract disorders.

Procedures—The proximal aspect of the jejunum in each horse was divided into 5 segments, and the following manipulations were performed: manual emptying, placement of Doyen forceps, enterotomy alone, enterotomy with mucosal abrasion, and serosal abrasion. Jejunum samples were collected before (control), immediately after, and 30 minutes after the end of manipulations and histologically evaluated to determine distribution of neutrophils and eosinophils.

Results—Macroscopically, all manipulations resulted in jejunal hemorrhage and edema. Compared with control samples, neutrophil numbers were significantly higher after manipulations in the serosa (after all manipulation types), circular muscle layer (after manual emptying), submucosa (after placement of Doyen forceps), and mucosa (after all manipulations except enterotomy alone). Eosinophil numbers were significantly higher in the submucosa after mechanical abrasion of the serosa and manual emptying versus control samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated mechanical manipulation of the jejunum resulted in local inflammatory reactions characterized predominantly by infiltration of neutrophils. This could contribute to the development of postoperative ileus or adhesions in horses without macroscopically detectable injury of the jejunum during surgery.
Ultrastructure and growth factor content of equine platelet-rich fibrin gels
Authors: Textor Jamie A. , Murphy Kaitlin C. , Leach J. Kent , Tablin Fern
Published: March 2014

Objective—To compare fiber diameter, pore area, compressive stiffness, gelation properties, and selected growth factor content of platelet-rich fibrin gels (PRFGs) and conventional fibrin gels (FGs).

Sample—PRFGs and conventional FGs prepared from the blood of 10 healthy horses.

Procedures—Autologous fibrinogen was used to form conventional FGs. The PRFGs were formed from autologous platelet-rich plasma of various platelet concentrations (100 × 103 platelets/μL, 250 × 103 platelets/μL, 500 × 103 platelets/μL, and 1,000 × 103 platelets/μL). All gels contained an identical fibrinogen concentration (20 mg/mL). Fiber diameter and pore area were evaluated with scanning electron microscopy. Maximum gelation rate was assessed with spectrophotometry, and gel stiffness was determined by measuring the compressive modulus. Gel weights were measured serially over 14 days as an index of contraction (volume loss). Platelet-derived growth factor-BB and transforming growth factor-β1 concentrations were quantified with ELISAs.

Results—Fiber diameters were significantly larger and mean pore areas were significantly smaller in PRFGs than in conventional FGs. Gel weight decreased significantly over time, differed significantly between PRFGs and conventional FGs, and was significantly correlated with platelet concentration. Platelet-derived growth factor-BB and transforming growth factor-β1 concentrations were highest in gels and releasates derived from 1,000 × 103 platelets/μL.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The inclusion of platelets in FGs altered the architecture and increased the growth factor content of the resulting scaffold. Platelets may represent a useful means of modifying these gels for applications in veterinary and human regenerative medicine.
Body-Tanning Attitudes among Female College Students
Authors: Yoo Jeong-Ju , Hur Won-Moo
Published: March 2014

This study investigated the attitudes of body-tanning behaviors: suntanning, tanning bed, tanning spray, and sunless tanning product use. Data collected from 208 female college students ( M age=19.8 yr., SD = 2.0; M weight = 63.3 kg, SD = 2.0; M height = 165.9cm, SD = 8.1) online. The questionnaire comprised four constructs: appearance-based, health-based, and emotion-based tanning attitudes, and body-tanning behaviors. Both appearance-based and emotion-based pro-tanning attitudes were associated with significantly higher body-tanning behaviors. However, health-based pro-tanning attitudes did not significantly affect body-tanning behaviors. The results from both UV- and non-UV exposure-related tanning behaviors provide future intervention strategies, such as establishing a positive body image without a tan and identifying negative emotional consequences as a result of tanning.
The Priming Effect of Military Service on Creativity Performance
Authors: Chiu Fa-Chung , Tu Priscilla L-P.
Published: March 2014

This study investigated the service priming effect on creativity performance. In three experiments, the service priming was manipulated in three ways (Army priming, Air Force priming, and a Neutral condition). Participants' performances on the Chinese Remote Associates Test (CRAT), insight problems, and critical thinking problems were accordingly measured in each experiment. Results showed that the Air Force priming improved creativity and the Army priming enhanced critical thinking. The results suggest that the constructions and processes of these two manipulations are different. In addition, results also suggested that the branch of military service moderates the relationship between the service priming and the performance of creativity.
Brazilian Adolescents' Body Weight Misperception and the Human Development Index of the Cities Where They Live
Authors: Silva Diego A. S. , Gonçalves Eliane C. A.
Published: March 2014

This study investigated the relationship between adolescents' body weight misperception and the Human Development Index (HDI) of the cities in which they live in Brazil. Data from a large national survey that included 60,973 boys and girls between 13 and 15 yr. ( M = 14.2, SD = 1.1; 47.5% boys, 52.5% girls) were analyzed. Regression analyses were adjusted for potential confounding factors such as population density, income inequality, nutritional status (BMI), and mothers' education. In both sexes, the relationship between perceived underweight showed an inverse relationship with HDI. The highest prevalences of participants who perceived themselves as overweight for girls were found in cities with high HDI.
Regional Suicide Rates in Scotland
Authors: Lester David
Published: March 2014

The suicide rate in 1990 of the nine major regions in Scotland was not associated with marriage, birth, mortality, or infant mortality rates.
Anthropometry in cardio-metabolic risk assessment
Authors: Mišigoj-Duraković Marjeta , Sorić Maroje , Duraković Zijad
Published: March 2014

Sažetak

S visokom prevalencijom debljine i s njom povezanih kroničnih metaboličkih i srčano-žilnih bolesti aktualizirana je potreba primjene jednostavnih antropometrijskih pokazatelja u procjeni prekomjerne tjelesne mase i debljine i u primarnom probiru rizičnih skupina, najčešće ITM-om odnosno indeksom tjelesne mase. On se primjenjuje u epidemiološkim istraživanjima, ali i u svakodnevnom radu u primarnoj zdravstvenoj zaštiti, pri procjeni kardiovaskularnog rizika uz kliničku i laboratorijsku dijagnostiku, savjetovanju pravilne prehrane i praćenju učinaka dijetetskih mjera u prehrani te savjetovanju tjelesne aktivnosti i vježbanja. Međutim, s obzirom na to da nije pokazatelj tjelesnoga sastava, u individualnoj procjeni prekomjerne mase u mnogim slučajevima ne zadovoljava. To se osobito odnosi na procjenu tjelesno aktivnih osoba i sportaša s dobro razvijenom nemasnom tjelesnom masom, u kojih nalazimo prekomjernu tjelesnu masu, ali bez viška masti, kao i u osoba s normalnom tjelesnom masom i malom nemasnom masom i/ili gracilnim skeletom. Posljednjih desetljeća posebnu pozornost zaokuplja uloga različite raspodjele tjelesne masti u razvoju kroničnih metaboličkih i srčanožilnih bolesti. Najboljim antropometrijskim prediktorom kardiovaskularnog rizika smatra se opseg trbuha (OT). Neizravni je pokazatelj veličine nakupljanja visceralne masti. OT i omjer opsega struka i kukova dobri su pokazatelji distribucije tjelesne masti i kardio-metaboličkog rizika. Razmatra se varijabilnost i unutar skupine osoba s povećanim OT-om s obzirom na rizik od razvoja metaboličkog sindroma. Hipertrigliceridemija uz povećani OT smatra se prvim pokazateljem povećanog metaboličkog rizika. U radu su navedeni postupci analize tjelesnog sastava, posebno antropometrijski, koje se svrstava u skupinu jednostavnih i jeftinijih postupaka. Razvoj generaliziranih jednadžbi za procjenu gustoće tijela doveo je do uporabe antropometrije u analizi tjelesnog sastava u praktičnom radu.
Efficiency of hepatocyte pretreatment with coenzyme Q10 against statin toxicity
Authors: Eghbal Mohammad Ali , Abdoli Narges , Azarmi Yadollah
Published: March 2014

Statins are potent cholesterol-lowering drugs that can have serious adverse effects on the muscles and liver. The aim of our in vitro study was to establish the protective effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10, in its optimal dose of 200 μmol L-1) against cytotoxicity induced by atorvastatin, simvastatin, and lovastatin in isolated rat hepatocytes by observing parameters such as cell death, reactive oxygen species formation, lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial membrane potential, and cellular reduced and oxidised glutathione content. Our findings have shown that pretreatment with CoQ10 was effective in reducing the toxic effects of statins in rat hepatocytes. This work demonstrates that the addition of CoQ10 to statin treatment regimens may protect hepatocytes (and also other types of cells) from statin-induced injuries and alleviate their side effects.
Protective effects of oestradiol against cadmium-induced changes in blood parameters and oxidative damage in rats
Authors: Mladenović Jelena , Ognjanović Branka , Đorđević Nataša , Matić Miloš , Knežević Veroljub , Štajn Andraš , Saičić Zorica
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of oestradiol (E2, 4 mg kg-1 b.w. i.p.) against cadmium-induced (Cd, 2 mg kg-1 b.w. i.p.) blood changes in rats. Cadmium induced a significant decline in haemoglobin, haematocrit, and total erythrocyte, lymphocyte, and thrombocyte count, whereas total leukocytes and granulocytes increased. A significant increase was also observed in serum cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, AST, and ALT activities, whereas total protein and albumin levels dropped significantly. Administration of E2 in combination with Cd alleviated most of these adverse effects. In terms of oxidative stress, Cd significantly increased oxygen-free radicals (O2 •- and H2O2) in neutrophils and lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes, whereas E2 treatment reversed these changes to control values. Acute Cd poisoning significantly lowered antioxidant enzyme (SOD and CAT) activity and the level of non-enzymatic antioxidants (GSH and vitamin E), while increasing in GSSG. Treatments with E2 reversed Cd-induced effects on the antioxidant defences and significantly lowered Cd-induced oxidative damage in erythrocytes. This study suggests that exogenous E2 effectively restores redox balance in rat erythrocytes and counters adverse haematological and biochemical effects of Cd poisoning. It also improves the antioxidant capacity of erythrocytes, acting in synergy with endogenous antioxidants.
Degradation of soil cyanide by single and mixed cultures of Pseudomonas stutzeri and Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Nwokoro Ogbonnaya , Dibua Marie Esther Uju
Published: March 2014

The aim of this investigation was to study whether certain bacteria could be used for cyanide degradation in soil. The bacteria Pseudomonas stutzeri and Bacillus subtilis were selected based on their good growth in a minimal medium containing 0.8 mg mL-1 potassium cyanide (KCN). In this study we tested their ability to reduce cyanide levels in a medium containing 1.5 mg mL-1 of KCN. Although both microorganisms reduced cyanide levels, Pseudomonas stutzeri was the more effective test organism. Later on, the selected cultures were grown, diluted and their various cell concentrations were used individually and in combination to test their ability of cyanide degradation in soil samples collected around a cassava processing mill. Bacillus subtilis caused degradation of soil cyanide from 0.218 mg g-1 soil immediately with an inoculum concentration of 0.1 (OD600nm) to 0.072 mg g-1 soil after 10 days with an inoculum concentration of 0.6 (OD600nm) implying a 66.9 % reduction. Pseudomonas stutzeri cell concentration of 0.1 (OD600nm) decreased soil cyanide from 0.218 mg g-1 soil initially to 0.061 mg g-1 soil after 10 days with an inoculum concentration of 0.6 (OD600nm) (72 % reduction). The mixed culture of the two bacteria produced the best degradation of soil cyanide from 0.218 mg g-1 soil sample with a combined inoculum concentration of 0.1 (OD600nm) initially to 0.025 mg g-1 soil with a combined inoculum concentration of 0.6 (OD600nm) after 10 days incubation resulting in an 88.5 % degradation of soil cyanide. The analysed bacteria displayed high cyanide degradation potential and may be useful for efficient decontamination of cyanide contaminated sites.
Comparative bioavailability of two oral formulations of clopidogrel: Determination of clopidogrel and its carboxylic acid metabolite (SR26334) under fasting and fed conditions in healthy subjects
Authors: Brvar Nina , Lachance Sylvain , Lévesque Ann , Breznik Marjanca , Cvitkovič Marčič Lea , Merslavič Mateja , Grabnar Iztok , Mateovič-Rojnik Tatjana
Published: March 2014

Two randomized, single dose, 2-period, 2-sequence crossover studies were conducted to evaluate the comparative bioavailability of two clopidogrel formulations under fasting and fed conditions. Assessment of bioequivalence was based upon measurement of plasma concentrations of the parent drug, clopidogrel, and its major (inactive) metabolite, clopidogrel carboxylic acid, using improved methanol-free extraction. Bioequivalence of Krka’s formulation to the innovator’s formulation was demonstrated under both fasting and fed conditions on 205 volunteers. Confidence intervals for AUC0-t, AUC0-inf and Cmax of clopidogrel and its main metabolite were well within the acceptance range of 80.00 to 125.00 %. Food substantially increased the bioavailability of clopidogrel from both formulations, while no effect of food on the extent and rate of exposure to the metabolite was observed. The effect of food was comparable between the two formulations, as indicated by the same direction and rank of food impact on the bioavailability of both formulations.
Investigation of in situ gelling alginate formulations as a sustained release vehicle for co-precipitates of dextromethrophan and Eudragit S 100
Authors: Maghraby Gamal Mohamed El , Elzayat Ehab Mostafa , Alanazi Fars Kaed
Published: March 2014

Alginate vehicles are capable of forming a gel matrix in situ when they come into contact with gastric medium in the presence of calcium ions. However, the gel structure is pH dependent and can break after gastric emptying, leading to dose dumping. The aim of this work was to develop modified in situ gelling alginate formulations capable of sustaining dextromethorphan release throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Alginate solution (2 %, m/m) was used as a vehicle for the tested formulations. Solid matrix of the drug and Eudragit S 100 was prepared by dissolving the drug and polymer in acetone. The organic solvent was then evaporated and the deposited solid matrix was micronized, sieved and dispersed in alginate solution to obtain candidate formulations. The release behavior of dextromethorphan was monitored and evaluated in a medium simulating the gastric and intestinal pH. Drug-polymer compatibility and possible solid-state interactions suggested physical interaction through hydrogen bonding between the drug and the polymer. A significant decrease in the rate and extent of dextromethorphan release was observed with increasing Eudragit S 100 concentration in the prepared particles. Most formulations showed sustained release profiles similar to that of a commercial sustained-release liquid based on ion exchange resin. The release pattern indicated strict control of drug release both under gastric and intestinal conditions, suggesting the potential advantage of using a solid dispersion of drug-Eudragit S 100 to overcome the problem of dose dumping after the rupture of the pH dependent alginate gels
Spectrofluorimetric determination of gemifloxacin mesylate and linezolid in pharmaceutical formulations: Application of quinone-based fluorophores and enhanced native fluorescence
Authors: Moussa Bahia Abbas , Mahrouse Marianne Alphonse , Hassan Mahmoud Ali , Fawzy Michael Gamal
Published: March 2014

Quinone-based fluorophores and enhanced native fluorescence techniques were applied for a fast quantitative analysis of gemifloxacin mesylate (GEM) and linezolid (LIN) in pharmaceutical formulations. For this purpose, three sensitive, accurate and precise spectrofluorimetric methods were developed. GEM, as an n-electron donor, reacts with 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (method A) and 2,5-dichloro-3,6-dihydroxy-p-benzoquinone (method B) as п-electron acceptors, forming charge transfer complexes that exhibit high fluorescence intensity at 441 and 390 nm upon excitation at 260 and 339 nm, respectively. Method C depends on measurement of enhanced native fluorescence of LIN in phosphate buffer (pH 5) at 380 nm upon excitation at 260 nm. Experimental factors affecting fluorescence intensity were optimized. Linearity was obtained over concentration ranges 50-500, 10-60 and 20-400 ng mL-1 for methods A, B and C, respectively. The developed methods were validated and successfully applied for determination of the cited drugs in tablets.
The effect of diclofenac on proliferation and production of growth factors by endothelial cells (HMEC-1) under hypoxia and inflammatory conditions
Authors: Wiktorowska-Owczarek Anna
Published: March 2014

Diclofenac belongs to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and non-selective COX inhibitors. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of diclofenac on endothelial cell proliferation under the influence of hypoxia or inflammatory conditions. Another goal was to check whether diclofenac modulates the secretion of angiogenic factors such as VEGF and bFGF in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1) in the presence of CoCl2 or lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which could influence the endothelial cells in an autocrine manner or other cells in a paracrine manner. HMEC-1 cells were treated with 0.1 and 0.3 mmol L-1 diclofenac in the presence of 100 μg mL-1 LPS or 200 μmol L-1 CoCl2. Diclofenac decreased cell viability under hypoxia and inflammatory conditions. The stimulation of bFGF secretion by LPS in microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1 cell) was attenuated by diclofenac. Diclofenac increased the secretion of VEGF induced by LPS and hypoxia.
New frontiers of target therapy in oncology: acute promyelocytic leukemia
Authors: Petković Ivan , Pejčić Ivica , Vrbić Svetislav
Published: March 2014

By introduction of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) in de novo acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) an revolution in therapy of this disease has been made. The rate of molecular complete remissions (CR) have been doubled compared to conventional chemotherapy with anthracyclines ranging from 90% to 95%. Consolidation therapy is required in order to reduce the risk of early relapse. Maintenance therapy is recommended as it further reduces the risk of relapse, especially in high-risk patients. The relapse rate in APL is relatively high, about 30% and is the most common within three years of starting the treatment. Another agent, arsenic trioxide (ATO) is the optimal drug that achieves high CR rate in relapsed, approximately 80% and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) may prolong the overall survival in patients with APL. ATRA and ATO have become a paradigm of targeted therapy, and APL is a paradigm of curable disease, at least in comparison to other forms of acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Involvement of the vanilloid receptor 1 in the mechanisms of analgesic effect of amizonum
Authors: Yadlovskyi Oleh , Bukhtiarova Tatiana , Bobkova Lyudmila , Tatianshenko Irina , Monchak Igor , Khayrulin Andrew
Published: March 2014

The study of features of pharmacodynamics of a new analgesic is an important and urgent task of modern pharmacology. These data allow us to clarify the nosology for application of an analgesic and to create a theoretical background to optimize its use. An effect mediated by the transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 1 (TRPV1) activation can also be an effective mechanism of the analgesic action. We evaluated the possibility of TRPV1 participation in implementation of the analgesic effect with the antiviral action of amizonum during the experiment. It is known that amino acids Tyr511 and Ser512 are the main components of the active site of TRPV1. In this connection, dipeptide Tyr-Ser has been completely synthesized as a model of the active site of TRPV1. In the experiment model this was shown, using the spectrophotometric method, with the formation of the “capsaicin - Tyr- Ser” intermolecular complex at the level of the stability constant Kkor=0.998 and Kr=0.3•10-4 L/mol and the “amizonum - Tyr-Ser” weak intermolecular complex Kr=0.05•104 L/mol; Kkor= 0.995, respectively. The data verification was carried out in experiments in vitro (isolated ratportal vein) and in vivo (Tail-flick model), with the TRPV1 agonist. It was shown that the amplitude of smooth muscle (SM) contraction of the portal vein at a capsaicin concentration 0.1 μmol/L, 0.5 μmol/L capsazepine, and 1.0 μmol/L amizonum was +30.3±5.3%, -3.2± 2.7% and +7.1±3.2% from initial level, respectivelly. In a combined application of amizonum with capsaicin or capsazepine, the amplitude of contraction of the SM portal vein was 20.1± 1.3% and -3.0±1.4%, respectively. This indicates the absence of action of amizonum under combined use of capsaicinoids. The Tail-flick model showed atypical potentiation of the amizonum antinociception with the use of capsaicin. The obtained data suggest the low probability of the participation of TRPV1 in the implementation of the antinociceptive action of amizonum.
Ultrastructure of adhesive bond of composite to dentin
Authors: Dačić Stefan , Mitić Aleksandar , Popović Jelena , Simonović Dačić Dragica , Igić Marko
Published: March 2014

Ultrastructure of adhesive bond is a significant indicator of the efficiency of the bond between material and dental tissue. Bonding between composite and hard dental tissue is also most commonly assessed by measuring bonding strength or by absence of marginal gap along restoration interface.

The aim of this investigation was to estimate ultrastructural features of the bond between composite materials and dentin after using two adhesive techniques.

Twenty Class V cavities on extracted teeth were prepared and restored for scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis of composite bonding to dentin. Adhesion was achieved by Adper Single Bond 2-ASB/3M ESPE or by Adper Easy One-AEO/3M ESPE. Photopolymerization of adhesives and composite material Filtek Ultimate FU/3M ESPE was performed using halogen light (Elipar Highlight 3M ESPE). After vertical sections through crown of teeth and composite restorations, surfaces of sections were treated with 37% phosphoric acid-60s and 2% NaOH-60s to remove the smear layer and obtain a better view of adhesive bond.

SEM analysis of adhesive bond showed better micromorphological bonding of composite to dentin after etch and rinse adhesive technique (ASB/FU matherials) than after self-etch technique (AEO/FU materials). In etch and rinse technique, the ultrastructure of adhesive bond to dentin was composed of adhesive and hybrid layers, with resin processes in dentinal canals. In self-etch technique, apart from adhesive and hybrid layers, resin processes were rare or were not observed at all. Better ultastructural bonding of composite restoration to dentin was obtained with etch and rinse adhesive technique.
Effect of child's cerebral palsy on the mother: a case control study in Ahvaz, Iran
Authors: Borzoo Samira , Nickbakht Mansoureh , Jalalian Mehrdad
Published: March 2014

Quality of life (QOL) in families can be affected when a child has cerebral palsy (CP). The aim of this research was to determine the effect of a child’s disability on the mother’s quality of life by comparing mothers of children with CP and mothers of normal children. Two sample groups were chosen from a total of 42 mothers to answer a short-form health survey (SF-36) questionnaire. The first group included 21 mothers of children with cerebral palsy who were referred to the speech therapy clinic of Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in Ahvaz. The second group consisted of 21 mothers of normal children living in Ahvaz. T-tests by SPSS were used for statistical analysis. There were significant differences in all domains of QOL between mothers of healthy children and mothers of children with cerebral palsy (p=0.001). This research found that the quality of life of mothers of children with CP was significantly different compared to mothers of healthy children. Therefore, appropriate planning is necessary to improve their quality of life in different domains.
On attaining the prescribed quality of a controlled fourth order system
Authors: Kapustyan Vladimir , Maksimov Vyacheslav
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we discuss a method of auxiliary controlled models and its application to solving some robust control problems for a system described by differential equations. As an illustration, a system of nonlinear differential equations of the fourth order is used. A solution algorithm, which is stable with respect to informational noise and computational errors, is presented. The algorithm is based on a combination of online state/input reconstruction and feedback control methods.
A new lightweight method for security risk assessment based on fuzzy cognitive maps
Authors: Szwed Piotr , Skrzyński Paweł
Published: March 2014

For contemporary software systems, security is considered to be a key quality factor and the analysis of IT security risk becomes an indispensable stage during software deployment. However, performing risk assessment according to methodologies and standards issued for the public sector or large institutions can be too costly and time consuming. Current business practice tends to circumvent risk assessment by defining sets of standard safeguards and applying them to all developed systems. This leads to a substantial gap: threats are not re-evaluated for particular systems and the selection of security functions is not based on risk models. This paper discusses a new lightweight risk assessment method aimed at filling this gap. In this proposal, Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCMs) are used to capture dependencies between assets, and FCM-based reasoning is performed to calculate risks. An application of the method is studied using an example of an e-health system providing remote telemonitoring, data storage and teleconsultation services. Lessons learned indicate that the proposed method is an efficient and low-cost approach, giving instantaneous feedback and enabling reasoning on the effectiveness of the security system.
Comparative Analysis of Nutrient Digestibility and Nitrogen Retention in Wild and Farmed Canids
Authors: Gugołek Andrzej , Strychalski Janusz , Konstantynowicz Małgorzata , Zwoliński Cezary
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study, conducted in November 2012, was to determine whether farming of common foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) leads to changes in nutrient digestibility and nitrogen retention in comparison with their wild counterparts. Wild and farmed animals were compared within and between species. Each group consisted of five males and five females aged around eight months. Farmed silver foxes - a variety of the common red fox (group FSF) and farmed raccoon dogs (group FRD) were purchased from a breeding farm in southeastern Poland. Wild red foxes (group WRF) and wild raccoon dogs (group WRD) were trapped in the hunting grounds of the Polish Hunting Association (Olsztyn Division). The animals were placed in metabolism cages. The coefficients of nutrient and energy digestibility, and daily nitrogen balance and retention values were compared between groups. Farmed animals tended to have higher digestibility coefficients than their wild counterparts. No significant differences were noted within species. The coefficients of dry matter (P≤0.01), organic matter (P≤0.05, P≤0.05) and protein (only FSF vs. WRD - P≤0.05) digestibility were higher in foxes. Raccoon dogs were characterized by higher digestibility of carbohydrates - N-free extracts (P≤0.01). Nitrogen retention was higher in farmed animals. The highest and lowest levels of retained nitrogen were observed in groups FSF and WRD, respectively
Prediction of the Carcass Value of Young Holstein-Friesian Bulls Based on Live Body Measurements
Authors: Pogorzelska-Przybyłek Paulina , Nogalski Zenon , Wielgosz-Groth Zofia , Winarski Rafał , Sobczuk-Szul Monika , Łapińska Patrycja , Purwin Cezary
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the suitability of ultrasound and zoometric measurements and visual muscle scoring for predicting the carcass value of 167 young Holstein-Friesian (HF) bulls. Zoometric and ultrasound measurements were performed and live muscle scoring was estimated before slaughter. After slaughter, hot carcass weight (HCW) was determined and carcasses were assigned to conformation and fat classes according to the EUROP system. Multiple regression equations were derived to estimate the weight, conformation and fatness of carcasses. HCW was estimated using the following equations: Ŷ = 1.507x1 + 1.103x2 + 4.043x3 + 5.53x4 + 0.379x5 + + 8.076x6 - 678.93 (R2=0.892; Sy = 16.28) and Ŷ = 2.525x4 + 0.579x7 + 0.451x8 - 134.17 (R2=0.943; Sy = 11.84); independent variables x1 - height at sacrum (cm); x2 - chest girth (cm); x3 - pelvic width (cm); x4 - pelvic length (cm); x5 - thickness of M. gluteo-biceps (mm); x6 - intravital muscle scoring (points); x7 - thickness of M. longissimus dorsi (mm); x8 - live weight (kg). Validation of the first regression equation revealed overestimation of HCW by 1.25% on average, while validation of the second equation revealed its underestimation by 1.85% on average. It was found that intravital muscle scoring and selected ultrasound and zoometric measurements of HF bulls can be used in formulating regression equations for predicting the carcass value of live animals. The proposed models enable predicting the carcass value of young bulls with satisfactory accuracy, thus contributing to an objective live beef cattle assessment
Normalization of Showjumping Competition’s Results
Authors: Schubertová Zuzana , Candrák Juraj
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to verify the newly proposed transformation of penalty points and ranking of showjumping horses for the purpose of genetic evaluation. Genomic information in the transformation of input data was used as well. Data of showjumping competition Global Champions Tour was used. Profit of penalty points was transformed to normally distributed variable using Blom formula (height of obstacles and height of obstacles with single nucleotide polymorphism - SNP effect taken into account). Non-normal distribution was obtained. The rankings of sport horses in competitions were transformed using the Blom formula (height of obstacles taken into account) to normal distribution (tests of normality Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) test Pr>D, D 0.011, P>0.150, Cramer-von Mises (CM) test Pr>W-Sq, W-Sq 0.039, P>0.250, Anderson-Darling test (AD) Pr>A-Sq, A-Sq 0.638, P<0.097). Better distributed variable ranking transformed by Blom formula (height of obstacles and SNP effect taken into account) was obtained (KS test Pr>D, D 0.004, P>0.150, CM test Pr>W-Sq, W-Sq 0.004, P>0.250, AD test Pr>A-Sq, A-Sq 0.062, P>0.250). Model where all used fixed effects to equation were applied without any combination of the effects was tested, R2 0.54. Variable ranking was transformed to normal score by Blom formula (height of obstacles was taken into account). In the following model some effects were taken into account in the form of quadratic regression, R2 0.61. Variable ranking was transformed to normal score, the same as in previous model. In the last model we transformed variable ranking to normal score by Blom formula, taking into account height of obstacles and SNP effect. Same effects as in previous model were used, R2 0.60
GNSS positioning algorithms using methods of reference point indicators
Authors: Oszczak Bartlomiej
Published: March 2014

The GNSS standard positioning solution determines the coordinates of the GNSS receiver and the receiver clock offset from measurements of at least four pseudoranges. For GNSS positioning, a direct solution was derived for five and ten observed satellites without linearisation of the observation equations and application of the least squares method. The article presents the basic principles of methods for solving the positioning problem, the formulas and their derivation. The numerical examples with simulated pseudorange data confirm the correct performance of the proposed algorithm. The presented algorithms should be further tested with real measurements in other domains of positioning and navigation as well.
Urban area GPS positioning accuracy using ASG-EUPOS POZGEO service as a function of session duration
Authors: Dawidowicz Karol , Krzan Grzegorz , Świątek Krzysztof
Published: March 2014

GNSS observations carried out in a network of Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) are a complex systems which offer post-processing as well as corrections sent in realtime. In Poland, such a system has been in operation since June 2008, known as the Polish Active Geodetic Network (ASG-EUPOS).

Usually the measurements performed in real time characterized lower accuracy than static measurements. For users who demand the highest precision results the post-processing services are provided.

The paper presents an analysis of the position determination accuracy using ASG-EUPOS POZGEO service. It is well known that the final accuracy is e.g. the measuring conditions, time of observations or number of measured frequencies dependent. We processed 4 consecutive days of GPS data to determine how the accuracy of derived positional coordinates depends on the length of the observing session, the characteristics of horizon visibility on points and the used in post-processing observations (L1 or L1+L2). The POZGEO results show that horizontal accuracies of about 1-2 cm and vertical accuracies of 4 cm are achievable provided 0.5 hours dual frequency GPS data. The accuracy clearly decreases for point measured under conditions of strongly limited satellite availability
Influence of temperature on synthetic data-based calibration models for low resolution open-path FTIR spectroscopy
Authors: Cięszczyk S.
Published: March 2014

This article presents the problem of determining the gas concentration under conditions of changing temperatures. The solution to this problem is based on spectral measurements using chemometric models. Such problems arise when measuring gases during various industrial processes, mainly the pyrolysis process. Chemometric models are built using synthetic calibration data. Line-by-line and statistical models were applied for spectra modelling. The effect of temperature on extracting the gas concentration from spectra of various resolutions was determined. Next, the global model was built and tested using calibration data for specific temperature ranges. The properties of the linear and nonlinear partial least-squares (PLS) models that were applied to the considered issues were demonstrated. CO and CH4 were used as example gases.
The preliminary studies of a structure and electrospinning of new polyurethanes based on synthetic atactic poly[(R, S)-3-hydroxybutyrate]
Authors: Sajkiewicz P. , Brzeska J. , Denis P. , Sikorska W. , Kowalczuk M. , Rutkowska M.
Published: March 2014

Novel polyurethanes based on synthetic, atactic poly[(R, S)-3-hydroxybutyrate] (a-PHB) and polycaprolactone (PCL) or polyoxytetramethylene (PTMG) diols were synthesized. It was shown that the presence of a-PHB within soft segments reduces crystallinity of PUR. Because of the low melting temperature for polyurethanes with PCL in soft segments, at this stage of work, electrospinning was limited to polyurethanes containing PTMG and a-PHB. Polyurethane containing 80% of PTMG and 20% of a-PHB was electrospun at various parameters from hexafluoro-2-propanole solution, resulting in formation of fibers with the average diameter ca. 2 μm. The fiber diameter decreased with decreasing polymer concentration in a solution and was practically insensitive to the needle-collector distance in the applied range of distances.
Graph based discrete optimization in structural dynamics
Authors: Blachowski B. , Gutkowski W.
Published: March 2014

In this study, a relatively simple method of discrete structural optimization with dynamic loads is presented. It is based on a tree graph, representing discrete values of the structural weight. In practical design, the number of such values may be very large. This is because they are equal to the combination numbers, arising from numbers of structural members and prefabricated elements. The starting point of the method is the weight obtained from continuous optimization, which is assumed to be the lower bound of all possible discrete weights. Applying the graph, it is possible to find a set of weights close to the continuous solution. The smallest of these values, fulfilling constraints, is assumed to be the discrete minimum weight solution. Constraints can be imposed on stresses, displacements and accelerations. The short outline of the method is presented in Sec. 2. The idea of discrete structural optimization by means of graphs. The knowledge needed to apply the method is limited to the FEM and graph representation.

The paper is illustrated with two examples. The first one deals with a transmission tower subjected to stochastic wind loading. The second one with a composite floor subjected to deterministic dynamic forces, coming from the synchronized crowd activities, like dance or aerobic.