bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Airway hyperresponsiveness; smooth muscle as the principal actor
Authors: Lauzon Anne-Marie , Martin James G.
Published: March 2016

Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) is a defining characteristic of asthma that refers to the capacity of the airways to undergo exaggerated narrowing in response to stimuli that do not result in comparable degrees of airway narrowing in healthy subjects. Airway smooth muscle (ASM) contraction mediates airway narrowing, but it remains uncertain as to whether the smooth muscle is intrinsically altered in asthmatic subjects or is responding abnormally as a result of the milieu in which it sits. ASM in the trachea or major bronchi does not differ in its contractile characteristics in asthmatics, but the more pertinent peripheral airways await complete exploration. The mass of ASM is increased in many but not all asthmatics and therefore cannot be a unifying hypothesis for AHR, although when increased in mass it may contribute to AHR. The inability of a deep breath to reverse or prevent bronchial narrowing in asthma may reflect an intrinsic difference in the mechanisms that lead to softening of contracted ASM when subjected to stretch. Cytokines such as interleukin-13 and tumor necrosis factor-α promote a more contractile ASM phenotype. The composition and increased stiffness of the matrix in which ASM is embedded promotes a more proliferative and pro-inflammatory ASM phenotype, but the expected dedifferentiation and loss of contractility have not been shown. Airway epithelium may drive ASM proliferation and/or molecular remodeling in ways that may lead to AHR. In conclusion, AHR is likely multifactorial in origin, reflecting the plasticity of ASM properties in the inflammatory environment of the asthmatic airway.
The importance of selecting the appropriate reference genes for quantitative real time PCR as illustrated using colon cancer cells and tissue
Authors: Dowling Catríona M. , Walsh Dara , Coffey John C. , Kiely Patrick A.
Published: March 2016

Quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) remains the most sensitive technique for nucleic acid quantification. Its popularity is reflected in the remarkable number of publications reporting RT-qPCR data. Careful normalisation within RT-qPCR studies is imperative to ensure accurate quantification of mRNA levels. This is commonly achieved through the use of reference genes as an internal control to normalise the mRNA levels between different samples. The selection of appropriate reference genes can be a challenge as transcript levels vary with physiology, pathology and development, making the information within the transcriptome flexible and variable. In this study, we examined the variation in expression of a panel of nine candidate reference genes in HCT116 and HT29 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional cultures, as well as in normal and cancerous colon tissue. Using normfinder we identified the top three most stable genes for all conditions. Further to this we compared the change in expression of a selection of PKC coding genes when the data was normalised to one reference gene and three reference genes. Here we demonstrated that there is a variation in the fold changes obtained dependent on the number of reference genes used. As well as this, we highlight important considerations namely; assay efficiency tests, inhibition tests and RNA assessment which should also be implemented into all RT-qPCR studies. All this data combined demonstrates the need for careful experimental design in RT-qPCR studies to help eliminate false interpretation and reporting of results.
A metabolite of prostaglandin D2, 11β-prostaglandin F2α (11β-PGF2α), in exhaled breath condensate and serum of asthmatics with airway hyperresponsiveness to distilled water
Authors: Nekrasov Eduard V. , Perelman Juliy M. , Naumov Denis E. , Prikhodko Anna G. , Ushakova Elena V. , Kolosov Victor P.
Published: March 2016

This study aims at identifying prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) involvement in osmotic airway hyperresponsiveness of asthmatics. PGD2 primary plasma metabolite, 11β-PGF2α, was analyzed in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) in response to ultrasonically nebulized distilled water (UNDW) and in serum in asthmatics with different airway response to the hypoosmotic stimulus. The total group of asthmatics (n=27) had a lower basal level of 11β-PGF2α (0.38±0.13 pg/ml, mean±SEM) in EBC compared to a group of healthy subjects (0.86±0.31 pg/ml, n=5), which decreased following the UNDW challenge to 0.30±0.09 and 0.53±0.12, respectively. The group of asthmatics with airway hyperresponsiveness to UNDW (≥10% FEV1 drop from baseline, n=14) had a lower concentration of the metabolite (0.28±0.14 pg/ml) as compared to the group without hyperresponsiveness (0.49±0.31 pg/ml, n=10). The 11β-PGF2α concentration decreased in the both groups after the challenge: 0.20±0.04 and 0.23±0.07 pg/ml in the groups with and without hyperresponsiveness to UNDW, respectively . Serum content of 11β-PGF2α was ranging from 0 to 61 pg/ml in asthmatics (n=17) and from 7.3 to 85.4 pg/ml in healthy subjects (n=8). It was lower in the group with airway hyperresponsiveness to UNDW (8.4±1.7 pg/ml, n=9) than in the group without the hyperresponsiveness (21.0±8.8 pg/ml, n=8). The obtained results do not support the involvement of PGD2 in the pathophysiology of asthma with airway hyperresponsiveness to a hypoosmotic stimulus unless other conversions of the prostaglandin occur in the airway under these conditions with formation of metabolites different from 11β-PGF2α.
siRNA knockdown validation 101: Incorporating negative controls in antibody research
Authors: Olds Will , Li Jason
Published: March 2016

More antibody validation protocols would identify non-specific reagents – a major source of irreproducible research – with the inclusion of negative controls. This article presents an overview of one such method: siRNA knockdown. The authors outline a general protocol, the knockdown mechanism, and tips for evaluating knockdown experiments.
A curated transcriptome dataset collection to investigate the development and differentiation of the human placenta and its associated pathologies
Authors: Marr Alexandra K. , Boughorbel Sabri , Presnell Scott , Quinn Charlie , Chaussabel Damien , Kino Tomoshige
Published: March 2016

Compendia of large-scale datasets made available in public repositories provide a precious opportunity to discover new biomedical phenomena and to fill gaps in our current knowledge. In order to foster novel insights it is necessary to ensure that these data are made readily accessible to research investigators in an interpretable format. Here we make a curated, public, collection of transcriptome datasets relevant to human placenta biology available for further analysis and interpretation via an interactive data browsing interface. We identified and retrieved a total of 24 datasets encompassing 759 transcriptome profiles associated with the development of the human placenta and associated pathologies from the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and present them in a custom web-based application designed for interactive query and visualization of integrated large-scale datasets (http://placentalendocrinology.gxbsidra.org/dm3/landing.gsp). We also performed quality control checks using relevant biological markers. Multiple sample groupings and rank lists were subsequently created to facilitate data query and interpretation. Via this interface, users can create web-links to customized graphical views which may be inserted into manuscripts for further dissemination, or e-mailed to collaborators for discussion. The tool also enables users to browse a single gene across different projects, providing a mechanism for  developing new perspectives on the role of a molecule of interest across multiple biological states. The dataset collection we created here is available at: http://placentalendocrinology.gxbsidra.org/dm3.
Remote clinical decision-making: transition to higher education
Authors: Brady Mike
Published: March 2016

An increasing range of clinicians find themselves working remotely in various ways, requiring remote clinical decision-making (RCDM) skills. However, despite the increasing use of RCDM in managing demand for emergency and unscheduled care, Mike Brady argues that there remains paucity in accredited higher education courses for RCDM.
Bringing Space into the classroom
Authors: Lyons Tom
Published: March 2016

Bringing Space into the classroom can prove motivating and engaging for students of all ages. Tom Lyons offers some ideas and sign-posts activities and resources
Fundamentos éticos para la promoción de la autonomía: hacia una ética de la interdependencia
Authors: Guzmán Castillo Francisco , Toboso Martín Mario , Romañach Cabrero Javier
Published: March 2016

Las políticas sociales se fundamentan en modelos éticos, antiguos y nuevos, que se implantan paulatinamente en la sociedad. Los modelos tradicionales, además de basarse en las éticas kantianas o deontológicas y consecuencialistas, incluyen otras aportaciones, entre las que podemos reseñar las de Hans Jonas, Martha Nussbaum o Alasdair MacIntyre. Sin embargo, sólo se producen innovaciones importantes cuando un colectivo «no tradicional» hace su voz presente en el mundo de la ética. Actualmente el modelo social y el modelo de la diversidad aportan una nueva voz, que nace de las personas discriminadas por su diversidad funcional y que tiene fuertes implicaciones en los fundamentos éticos de las políticas sociales. En este texto se abordan las novedades y críticas que esta nueva voz aporta a la ética contemporánea, con especial énfasis en la presencia o ausencia de la misma en la Ley de Promoción de la Autonomía Personal y Atención a las personas en situación de dependencia.
Impacto de la Ley de Dependencia en los cuidados a la tercera edad en el ámbito rural: el caso de Enguera
Authors: Benlloch Doménech Cristina , Sarrión Esteve Joaquín
Published: March 2016

En ocasiones, desde las Ciencias Sociales se nos olvida que la realidad se desarrolla en el espacio microsocial, y elaboramos proyectos de gran alcance sin tener en cuenta los contextos locales. Es esta premisa bajo la que se justifica nuestra investigación, porque entendemos que los estudios de caso, como el que nos atañe, son necesarios no sólo para conocer la realidad en los contextos más reducidos, sino también porque las políticas públicas y la legislación no se aplican en abstracto, sino que es en estos emplazamientos «microsociales» donde producen sus efectos directos. La segunda justificación para el análisis de este municipio en concreto, ha sido el entendimiento de que la realidad de los municipios pequeños de ámbito rural de nuestro país es bien diferente de la dinámica de las grandes zonas urbanas. Esta discrepancia se da no sólo en cuanto a estructuras demográficas y productivas, sino también en cuanto a las relaciones sociales. El objeto de nuestro estudio es el análisis de las relaciones de cuidado a la tercera edad generadas a partir de las ayudas de la Ley 39/2006 en este municipio de cinco mil habitantes. Emplazamiento local cuya pirámide de población podemos considerar envejecida pues es ancha por la cúspide.
El rellotge de Berna: apunts sobre l’obra dietarística de Tomàs Garcés
Authors: Falguera Garcia Enric
Published: March 2016

Enric Falguera examina en aquest article El temps que fuig, de Tomàs Garcés, i subratlla el valor d’aquest text (originalment titulat El rellotge de Berna) en relació amb la vida i l’obra del cèlebre poeta. Fet i fet, aquest reconegut dietari amplia a la prosa el personal concepte que Garcés tenia de la poesia, i posa fi a un silenci de tretze anys des de l’última publicació original. S’hi revisen aspectes com el pas del temps, la barreja de vida i literatura, la personalitat poètica, els esdeveniments de cada dia, el cristianisme, l’equació entre somni i poesia, les anècdotes i les opinions sobre grans escriptors, etc.
Enric Valor, estudi i compromís per la llengua
Authors: Climent Martínez Josep Daniel
Published: March 2016

Enric Valor i Vives ha estat una de les personalitats valencianes més significatives en l’estudi i la difusió del valencià al llarg del segle XX, tant pel seu compromís amb l’ensenyament de l’idioma i el seu activisme cultural, abans de la Guerra Civil i durant el franquisme, com per la publicació de nombroses obres gramaticals i literàries. L’objectiu d’aquestes pàgines és oferir una panoràmica el més completa posible d’Enric Valor des d’aquestes dues vessants: per una part, com a persona compromesa amb el seu poble i, per una altra, com a estudiós de la llengua, perquè la seua tasca literària i lingüística només es podrá entendre a partir de la seua concepció nacional, on la llengua ocupa un paper determinant. A més a més, amb l’anàlisi de les seues actuacions a favor de la llengua i el país s’hi mostren la convicció i la fortalesa dels seus ideals, la tenacitat esmerçada en la seua defensa i la constància de les actuacions en les situacions més adverses.
L’ambició d’Aleix i la censura: història de l’expedient 3322/59
Authors: Pérez Silvestre Òscar
Published: March 2016

L’ambició d’Aleix (1960) és la primera novel·la publicada per Enric Valor. Fins ara, hom havia atribuït el retard a l’acció de la censura, però la revisió de diverses fonts escrites permet inferir unes conclusions ben diferents. L’autor d’aquest treball demostra, amb l’expedient de censura a la mà, amb la correspondència i amb l’anàlisi de les circumstàncies vitals de Valor i de les possibilitats editorials d’aquell moment, que aquesta novel·la va reposar sine die als calaixos de Vives Mora, fins que el gerent es decidí a iniciar-ne l’expedient el 1959 a Madrid. A més de fixar el calendari del periple de producció, censura i publicació, i d’identificar les persones implicades, aquesta investigació analitza el passatge final del mecanoscrit censurat i compara la versió inicial completa —desconeguda fins ara— amb la primera edició de 1960, en la qual es mantingueren totes les traces que anunciaven l’adulteri final, prohibit com sabem. Els canvis estilístics que hom hi pot detectar són una mostra de l’obsessió perenne d’Enric Valor per la cura i la depuració dels seus textos.
Association of polymorphism rs7903146 gene TCF7L2 with low concentrations of autoantibodies in latent autoimmune diabetes of adults (LADA)
Authors: Silko Iuliia V. , Nikonova Tatiana V. , Ivanova Olga N. , Stepanova Svetlana M. , Shestakova Marina V. , Dedov Ivan I.
Published: March 2016

Aim. To determine the frequencies of alleles and genotypes of polymorphic marker rs7903146 of the TCF7L2 gene in latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) and healthy individuals. The aims of the study were also to compare the distribution of alleles and genotypes and to explore the association with the development of LADA.Materials and methods. A total of 96 patients (46 females and 50 males) with LADA and 201 healthy individuals were examined. A quantitative determination of autoantibodies GADA, ICA, IA-2A and ZnT8 in the serum of LADA patients was performed. All patients underwent genotyping of rs7903146 of the TCF7L2 genes.Results. There was an increased frequency of the T allele and genotype T+ of marker rs7903146 of the TCF7L2 gene in patients with LADA with low concentrations of autoantibodies compared to a group of patients with high concentrations and with controls. We observed significant associations of the T allele and genotype T+ with LADA in patients with low concentrations of autoantibodies [p = 0.02; odds ratio (OR) = 1.85; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.10–3.13 and p = 0.04; OR = 2.14; 95% CI = 1.01–4.53 for the T allele and genotype T+, respectively).Conclusion. The results of the study suggest that LADA patients with low concentrations of autoantibodies have a genetically pre-determined similarity with patients with type 2 diabetes.
Pharmacogenetics of statin therapy and the endothelial function parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Lebedeva Nadezhda O. , Vikulova Olga K. , Nikitin Alexei G. , Shamkhalova Minara Sh. , Shestakova Marina V. , Dedov Ivan I.
Published: March 2016

Aim. To investigate the association of variation in lipid-lowering response and endothelial function (EF) parameters after atorvastatin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with genetic markers of atherosclerosis.Methods. We included 97 patients with T2DM who were prescribed atorvastatin. Fasting lipid profiles and EF parameters were assessed before and after 12 months of statin therapy. For EF evaluation, we performed pulse-wave analysis during reactive hyperaemia. The genotypes for polymorphic markers were identified by real-time polymerase chain reaction with TaqMan probes. The statistical analysis included Wilcoxon, Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests. P-values 0.05 were considered statistically significant.Results. With statin therapy, PPARG2Pro/Pro patients had significantly lower TC and LDL-C levels than PPARG2 Pro/Ala and PPARG2 Ala/Ala patients (TC: 20.74% vs. 4.6% and 5.61%; p = 0.04 and LDL-C: 26.00% vs. 6.11% and 7.32%; p = 0.029). Patients with АРОЕЕ4/Е4 had significantly lower TC and TG levels than other АРОЕ patients (TC: -46.25% for Е4/Е4 vs. +33.33% for Е4/Е2, +5.73% for Е3/Е2, +11.80% for Е3/Е4, -10.92% for Е3/Е3, р = 0,01; TG: -56.52% for Е4/Е4 vs. +24.43% for Е4/Е2, +19.63% for Е3/Е2, +8.05% for Е3/Е4, -20.00% for Е3/Е3, р = 0.04). The patients with GG for TNFα G(238)A and GA for TNFα G(308)A had significantly greater amplitude of post-occlusive wave increase (Apw) than patients with GA for TNFα G(238)A and GG for TNFα G(308)A (+8.16 % vs. -0.93%, р = 0,04; +44% vs. -4.4%, p = 0.004, respectively).Conclusion. PPARG2Pro12Ala and АРОЕE2/Е3/Е4 polymorphism contributed to the between-patient variability in the response to statin therapy in patients with T2DM. Significant associations of the TNFαgene polymorphism with EF in patients with T2DM suggest an important role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of MVD.
Clinical and pathogenetic features of lesions of the lower extremities in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic venous insufficiency
Authors: Shlyakova Anna A. , Strongin Leonid G. , Kudykin Maksim N. , Korneva Кsenia G.
Published: March 2016

Comorbid chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are common, particularly in older people. The severity of DM and its complications can worsen the course of CVI and affect its management.Aim. To assess the impact of T2DM on lesions of the lower extremities in patients with CVI.Materials and methods. Eighty patients with CVI of the lower limbs were examined. Forty patients had T2DM (main group) and 40 patients did not have T2DM (control group). Physical examination, clinical and biochemical tests, ultrasound scanning of veins and arteries of the lower extremities and electroneuromyography (ENMG) of the lower extremities were performed for all patients. The state of the microvasculature was studied by laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) for 15 patients in the main group and 15 patients in the control group.Results. T2DM exacerbated the course of CVI, which was clinically characterized by a greater severity of trophic (p = 0.0001) and oedema (p = 0.03) syndromes. Morphological changes in the venous blood flow in patients with T2DM with CVI were characterized by bilateral lesions (p = 0.03), more frequent failure of sapheno-femoral anastomosis (p = 0.02) and perforating veins of the lower leg (p = 0.0004). The pathogenesis of such complications was associated with diabetic factors, including hyperglycaemia, НbА1с 10%, duration of DM 10 years and the presence diabetic microangiopathy of the lower limbs. Diabetic macroangiopathy and polyneuropathy were associated with disruption of the morphological and functional characteristics of the venous system and the disruption of the microcirculation in the lower extremities, contributing to increased oedema and trophic changes. At the same time, the presence of diabetic neuropathy masked the symptoms of CVI due to reductions in pain (p = 0.0004).Conclusion. Diabetes exacerbates the course of CVI due to poor glycaemic control (HbA1c 10%), long duration of diabetes (10 years) and the presence of macroangiopathy in the lower extremities. Diabetic neuropathy of the lower limbs and diabetic microangiopathy aggravates the venous disease through disruption of microcirculation and increases the expression of trophic changes in the lower extremities.
Efficacy and safety of metformin for the treatment of gestational diabetes: a new approach to the problem
Authors: Sazonova Anna I. , Esayan Roza M. , Kolegaeva Oksana I. , Gardanova Zhanna R.
Published: March 2016

Historically, the following two methods were used to treat gestational diabetes mellitus: non-medical life-style interventions (diet and increased physical activity) and insulin treatment when other interventions were not effective. The possibility of alternative types of treatment such as oral anti-diabetic drugs has been the source of debate in recent years. Metformin is an oral anti-diabetic drug that reduces insulin resistance, which is common during gestation and is considered one of the main pathways of glucose metabolism alteration during pregnancy. The main concern is that metformin can cross the placenta and is found unchanged in foetal blood. This is the reason why oral anti-diabetic drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy in many countries, including Russia (according to the 2012 Russian recommendations for gestational diabetes treatment). In recent years, many studies investigating the safety and efficacy of metformin for maternal and foetal health have been published. We will review recent randomized clinical trials and discuss new international clinical recommendations (FIGO, 2015) and new opportunities for gestational diabetes mellitus treatment.
A comparison of the clinical outcomes of induced and spontaneous labour in patients with gestational diabetes
Authors: Bettikher Ofelia A. , Zazerskaya Irina E. , Popova Polina V. , Kustarov Vitaliy N.
Published: March 2016

Aim. To evaluate the clinical outcomes of induced and spontaneous labour in patients with gestational diabetes (GD).Materials and methods. This retrospective cohort study conducted at the Federal Almazov Northwest Medical Research Centre included 251 patients with GD who had given birth during 2014. The patients were divided into the following two groups: one included 210 patients who were treated with diet and the other included 41 patients who were treated with insulin. Clinical outcomes were compared between patients who had induced (n = 43) or spontaneous (n = 188) labour.Results. Complications of labour, such as dysthyroidism and uterine inertia, were significantly more common (p 0. 05) in induced labour patients than in those who had spontaneous labour (16. 3 vs. 3. 2% and 7% vs. 0%, respectively). Fetal distress occurred in 10. 6% and 9. 3% of patients during spontaneous and induced labour, respectively. The frequency of ceasarean section after induced labour was not significantly greater than that among patients who had spontaneous labour.Conclusion. Delivery at 38 to 39 weeks in women with GD has led to an increase in the rate of birth complications, such as uterine inertia and dysthyroidism. Gestational age cannot be considered as a sufficient indicator of labour induction at full-term in the absence of foetus distress or poor maternal glycemic control.
The associations of incretin hormone concentration with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Saprina Tatiana V. , Timokhina Ekaterina S. , Goncharevich Olga K. , Budeeva Svetlana V. , Prokhorenko Tatiana S. , Tashireva Lyubov A. , Musina Nadezhda N. , Dronova Irina V.
Published: March 2016

Background: Enteropancreatic hormonal system disorder is a possible reason for β-cell dysfunction and carbohydrate metabolism disorder among pregnant women. However, no information is available about the state of enteroinsulin hormones [glucagon, glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), glucagon-like peptide1 (GLP-1) and GLP-2] during pregnancy. The role of enteroinsulin hormones in the development of carbohydrate metabolism disorder during pregnancy is poorly understood. Aim: To quantify and compare incretin hormone secretion in groups of pregnant women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Materials and methods: The study included 80 patients, 50 of whom had GDM, and the control group consisted of 30 pregnant women without GDM. All patients underwent an oral glucose tolerance test; glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) estimation; ferritin, transferrin, basal and postprandial glucagon estimation; GLP-1 and GLP-2 estimation. Results: Basal glucagon and GLP-1 levels were significantly higher (p 0. 05) in the group of women with GDM than in the control group. The most significant differences in GLP-1, basal and postprandial glucagon levels were observed during the first trimester of pregnancy. Conclusion: High GLP-1 levels in the group of women with GDM may reflect a state of ‘incretin resistance’, which is similar to hyperinsulinemia in the early stages of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Phenotypic and genetic characteristics of patients with type 2 diabetes with different responses to metformin therapy in Novosibirsk region
Authors: Bondar Irina A. , Shabelnikova Olesya Y. , Sokolova Ekaterina A. , Pyankova Olga V. , Filipenko Maksim L.
Published: March 2016

Aim: The purpose of this study was to examine the phenotypic and genetic characteristics of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with different responses to treatment with metformin (MF) in the Novosibirsk region. Materials and methods: We examined 460 patients with T2DM in the Novosibirsk region. Patients were divided into groups according to their HbA1c level: patients who achieved the target HbA1c level during MF therapy (n = 209) and those who did not reach the target HbA1c level (n=251). Genotyping of ATM (rs11212617) was performed using polymerase chain reaction by TaqMan. Results: Patients who achieved the target HbA1c level during MF treatment (good response) were older (61. 1±9. 1 years vs. 57. 4±8. 4 years, p=0. 001), had later onset of diabetes (54. 6 ± 10. 1 years vs. 49. 2±8. 5 years, p = 0. 0001) and shorter duration of diabetes (6. 5±5. 9 years vs. 8. 2±6. 1 years, p=0. 03) compared with those who did not achieve the target HbA1c level. There was no statistically significant association between ATM rs11212617 and achieving the target HbA1c level among all patients [odds ratio (OR)=0. 94, 95% confidence interval = (0. 73–1. 23), p=0. 67] or those with MF monotherapy [OR=0. 90, (0. 65–1. 25), p=0. 54] or combination therapy [OR=1. 02, (0. 72–1. 43), p=0. 92]. There was an effect of age on response to MF therapy in all three groups (all patients: p=0. 001, MF monotherapy group: p=0. 04, combination therapy group: p=0. 0009). In the MF monotherapy group, low dose MF was associated with a good response (p=0. 03), and in the combination therapy group, males were more likely to have a good response (p=0. 003). Patients with genotype C/C or A/C for ATM (rs11212617) compared with those with genotype A/A were more likely to have high levels of triglycerides [2. 33 (1. 52–4. 2) mmol/l, 2. 09 (1. 35–3. 0) mmol/l and 1. 99 (1. 49–3. 21) mmol/l, respectively, p=0. 001], coronary heart disease (CHD) (13. 4%, 13. 4% and 9. 6%, respectively, p=0. 009) and myocardial infarction (7. 8%, 3. 2% and 4. 0%, respectively, p=0. 001). Conclusion: Patients with T2DM who had a good response to MF therapy were older, more likely to be male and had a later onset of T2DM. Genotype C/C for ATM rs11212617 was associated with high triglycerides, CHD and myocardial infarction. ATM rs11212617 was not associated with response to MF therapy in the Novosibirsk region.
Phytochemical analysis and proximate composition of Vernonia amygdalina
Authors: Usunobun Usunomena , Ngozi Okolie
Published: March 2016

Background: Vernonia amygdalina is used to prepare dishes as well as a multi-purpose fodder tree with high biomass yield. This study was conducted to determine phytochemicals and proximate composition of Vernonia amygdalina leaves.

Methods: Evaluation of Vernonia amygdalina for phytochemicals and proximate composition were conducted using standard methods.

Results: Result showed that Vernonia amygdalina contain phytochemicals such as alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, triterpenoids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, and reducing sugar. Results obtained on the proximate composition shows that Vernonia amygdalina in percentage (%) contain dry matter (90.68 ± 0.77), crude protein (22.81 ± 0.17), crude fiber (18.17±0.06), moisture (9.32 ± 0.67), ash (16.65 ± 0.09), crude fat (4.34 ± 0.04) and carbohydrate (38.03 ± 0.06).

Conclusion: The presence of phytochemicals like saponins, tannins, alkaloids and flavonoids explains the medicinal potentials of Vernonia amygdalina leaves in therapeutic uses. Also the leafy vegetables if consume in sufficient amount would contribute greatly to the nutritional requirement for human health and to the food security of Nigerian population.
Relationship between morale and motivation in teamwork environments: A research in the health sector
Authors: Erdoğan Pınar , Çelik Adnan
Published: March 2016

Hospitals in which wide variety of types of health care services are provided require the work of many professionals working together in a harmony. However, it is possible to provide the harmony by teamwork. For the quality health care, it is a must to keep the morale-motivation at high level of the hospital employees who serve 24-hour continuously. Teamwork, same in all other businesses, is considered as a factor that affects the morale and motivation of hospital employees in a positive manner.The purpose of this research is to determine the relationship between teamwork and morale-motivation levels of employees at surgery section of Pamukkale University Hospital in the province of Denizli. For this purpose, hypothesis of the research are determined by considering the theoretical discussions in the literature and research findings. Research hypothesis were tested by using the data obtained from the survey method with 58 employees of Pamukkale University Hospital in the province of Denizli. Descriptive statistical methods, correlation and regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Statistically significant relationship between some demographic characteristics of employees and the teamwork environment and morale-motivation level was found in the results. Relation between the teamwork environment and morale-motivation level was measured by correlation regression analysis, and no statistical significance was observed between two concepts. However, a statistical significance was found between the support for sub-dimension of innovation within the teamwork environment-team vision dimension and morale-motivation level.
Methods for preliminary determination of pemetrexed in macromolecular drug-carrier systems
Authors: Ciekot Jarosław , Goszczyński Tomasz Marek , Boratyński Janusz
Published: March 2016

Pemetrexed (PMX) is an antifolate drug utilized in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. For studies of potential macromolecular carriers for PMX, fast and precise methods were developed to determine the bound and free drug contained in investigated conjugate preparations. The analysis of the total amount of PMX in conjugates was based on absorption spectrophotometry. The linearity was found in the range of 4.697–46.97 μmol L−1 PMX. The limit of quantitation was 1.070 μmol L−1. The method for the analysis of unbound PMX was based on size-exclusion chromatography and detection at 225 nm. This method shows linear range of 2.230–223.0 μmol L−1. LOQ was 0.539 μmol L−1. The proposed methods can be used both for the characterization of the polysaccharide based conjugates of PMX and for the determination of conjugate drug release profiles.
Synthesis and structure elucidation of some novel thiophene and benzothiophene derivatives as cytotoxic agents
Authors: Mohareb Rafat M. , Abdallah Amira E. M. , Helal Maher H. E. , Shaloof Somiya M. H.
Published: March 2016

Attempting to produce cyclized systems with potential anti-proliferative activity, a series of novel thiophene and benzothiophene derivatives were designed and synthesized. The reactivity of the latter derivatives towards different chemical reagents was studied. Twenty-one compounds were synthesized and evaluated as anti-cancer agents. The results showed that ethyl 5-amino-3-(4-chlorostyryl)-4-cyanothiophene-2-carboxylate (5b), ethyl 5-amino-4-((4-methoxyphenyl)carbonyl)-3-methylhiophene-2-carboxylate (8c) and 5-3-(ethoxy-3-oxopropanamido)-3-methyl-4-(phenylcarbamoyl)thiophene-2-carboxylate (9) were the most active compounds towards three tumor cell lines – MCF-7 (breast adenocarcinoma), NCI-H460 (non-small cell lung cancer) and SF-268 (CNS cancer) and a normal fibro-blast human cell line (WI-38) compared to the anti-proliferative effects of the reference control doxorubicin.
Biphasic dissolution method for quality control and assurance of drugs containing active substances in the form of weak acid salts
Authors: Franc Aleš , Muselłk Jan , Goněc Roman , Vetchý David
Published: March 2016

Substances in the form of weak acid salts have been found to be problematic for dissolution testing. Their absorption can start only after they are turned into the form of an acid following the gastric passage although they were administered in the form of a salt. Due to poor solubility, they cannot be tested in acidic gastric environment for a biased dissolution profile. The biphasic dissolution method is promising for overcoming this obstacle. Tablets with warfarin clathrate sodium salt in two concentrations and two different particle size distributions were tested as a suitable model for finding the medium and process conditions of dissolution. The dissolution method based on the use of the upper organic layer (1-octanol) and the lower aqueous layer 0.1 mol L−1 HCl) was found suitable and discriminatory for tablets containing active substances in the form of salts of weak acids. The method also reflects physical differences in the quality of used substances.
Numerical Method for Determining Stiffness Characteristics of an Arbitrary Form Superelement
Authors: Tsybenko Alexander , Konyukhov Alexander , Tsybenko Hanna
Published: March 2016

As part of the superelement approximation technology for fragments (subsystems) of the analyzed structures, a numerical method of determining the characteristics of arbitrary type superelements was developed. The examples of simulation models with two-node superelements demonstrated the efficacy of the method in the structural analysis of elastic systems.
Lusin-type Theorems for Cheeger Derivatives
on Metric Measure Spaces
Authors: Guy C. David
Published: March 2016

A theorem of Lusin states that every Borel function onRis equal almost everywhere to the derivative
of a continuous function. This result was later generalized to Rn in works of Alberti and Moonens-Pfeffer.
In this note, we prove direct analogs of these results on a large class of metric measure spaces, those with
doubling measures and Poincaré inequalities, which admit a form of differentiation by a famous theorem of
Cheeger.
Bi-Lipschitz Bijections of Z
Authors: Benjamini Itai , Shamov Alexander
Published: March 2016

It is shown that every bi-Lipschitz bijection from Z to itself is at a bounded L1 distance from either
the identity or the reflection.We then comment on the group-theoretic properties of the action of bi-Lipschitz
bijections.
Analysis of Correlation between Stresses and Fatigue Lives of Welded Steel Specimens Based on Real Three-Dimensional Weld Geometry
Authors: Stasiuk Przemysław , Karolczuk Aleksander , Kuczko Wiesław
Published: March 2016

Welded joints are areas of increased stresses in construction. The reason for this phenomenon is associated with the nonhomogeneous mechanical, structural and geometrical properties of the weld. In the article the correlations between locally raised stresses due to real geometry and fatigue lives of non-load carrying cruciform joints made from S355J2+N steel are analysed. Stresses were computed using Finite Element Method (FEM) based on real three-dimensional weld geometry obtained by 3D scanning. The specimens were experimentally tested under cyclic push-pull loading with a zero mean value of applied force. The correlation was analysed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and statistical hypotheses. It was shown that statistically significant correlation exists between maximum values of normal stresses and fatigue lives.
Some Considerations on an Underwater Robotic Manipulator Subjected to the Environmental Disturbances Caused by Water Current
Authors: Kołodziejczyk Waldemar
Published: March 2016

The objective of this paper is to discuss some of the issues associated with environmental load on the three-link serial manipulator caused by underwater current. We have conducted CFD simulations to investigate hydrodynamic effects induced by changing current direction and changing with time current speed in order to better understand the physics of the problem. The results are presented in terms of moments of hydrodynamic forces plotted against relative position of the current and the robotic arm. Time history of hydrodynamic loads according to periodically changing current speed is presented and discussed.
Thrust Porous Bearing with Rough Surfaces Lubricated by a Rotem-Shinnar Fluid
Authors: Walicka Anna , Walicki Edward
Published: March 2016

In the paper the influence of both bearing surfaces roughness and porosity of one bearing surface on the pressure distribution and load-carrying capacity of a thrust bearing surfaces is discussed. The equations of motion of a pseudo-plastic fluid of Rotem-Shinnar, are used to derive the Reynolds equation. After general considerations on the flow in a bearing clearance and in a porous layer using the Morgan-Cameron approximation and Christensen theory of hydrodynamic lubrication the modified Reynolds equation is obtained. The analytical solutions of this equation for the cases of squeeze film bearing and externally pressurized bearing are presented. As a result one obtains the formulae expressing pressure distribution and load-carrying capacity. Thrust radial bearing with squeezed film is considered as a numerical example.
Boundary Integral Equations for an Anisotropic Bimaterial with Thermally Imperfect Interface and Internal Inhomogeneities
Authors: Sulym Heorhiy , Pasternak Iaroslav , Tomashivskyy Mykhailo
Published: March 2016

This paper studies a thermoelastic anisotropic bimaterial with thermally imperfect interface and internal inhomogeneities. Based on the complex variable calculus and the extended Stroh formalism a new approach is proposed for obtaining the Somigliana type integral formulae and corresponding boundary integral equations for a thermoelastic bimaterial consisting of two half-spaces with different thermal and mechanical properties. The half-spaces are bonded together with mechanically perfect and thermally imperfect interface, which model interfacial adhesive layers present in bimaterial solids. Obtained integral equations are introduced into the modified boundary element method that allows solving arbitrary 2D thermoelacticity problems for anisotropic bimaterial solids with imperfect thin thermo-resistant inter-facial layer, which half-spaces contain cracks and thin inclusions. Presented numerical examples show the effect of thermal resistance of the bimaterial interface on the stress intensity factors at thin inhomogeneities.
Chaotic Dynamics of the Kepler Problem with Oscillating Singularity
Authors: Margheri Alessandro , Torres Pedro J.
Published: March 2016

We prove the presence of chaotic dynamics for the classical two-body Kepler problem with a time-periodic gravitational coefficient oscillating between two fixed values. The set of chaotic solutions we detect is coded by the number of revolutions in each period. The chaotic dynamics is obtained for large period T as well as for small angular momentum μ. In particular, we provide an explicit lower bound on T and explicit upper bound on μ which guarantee the existence of complex dynamics. We get our results by applying a simple and well-known topological method, the stretching along the path technique. Our results are robust with respect to small perturbations of the gravitational coefficient and to the addition of a small friction term.
The Use of Magnetic Field and Magnetometers in Supporting the Air Navigation
Authors: Ogórek Ireneusz , Grzegorzewski Marek , Maciejowski Maciej
Published: March 2016

At present, the Earth’s magnetic field (geomagnetic field) undergoes considerable variations. The use of towers measuring areal variations in magnetic intensity may provide additional support for aircraft navigation. This paper presents the idea of using magnetometers for supporting GNSS as well as for creating a landing system based on magnetic field variations.
Examination of EGNOS Safety-of-Live Service in Eastern Slovakia
Authors: Ciećko Adam , Grzegorzewski Marek , Oszczak Stanisław , Ćwiklak Janusz , Grunwald Grzegorz , Balint Jan , Szabo Stanislav
Published: March 2016

The first PBN approach procedures in Slovakia became operationally effective at Bratislava and Košice airports as of 5 February 2015. The article presents the results of EGNOS Safety-of-Life Service preliminary examination in eastern Slovakia, just before official introduction of these procedures. The practical examination includes static test and test flight made with Cessna plane taking off at the airport in Bidovce — LZBD (just 16 km from international airport in Košice) and passing a route along eastern border of Slovakia. In this region the performance of EGNOS could be unsatisfactory due to lack of RIMS stations to the east from there. The experiment was performed on October 13, 2014 in cooperation of the Air Force Academy in Deblin, the Department of Aviation of Technical University in Košice and University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn.
Some Aspects of Development in Radar Technology in the Context of Accurate Positioning
Authors: Felski Andrzej
Published: March 2016

In the end of XX century we were witnesses of the revolution in a radio-navigation, which led to the present domination of GPS. Dozens of radio-navigation systems disappeared. However now in many papers more and more often we can read an opinion, that GNSS monopoly becomes dangerous. This results from the similar sensibility of all GNSS systems on the same disturbances consequential from the similar radiofrequency band and similarly low powers of the signal. There is a growing approval in the maritime world that GNSS will not provide a required resilience because of common vulnerabilities. An anticipated radio navigation system should be a combination of systems, providing redundancy and effective work when GNSS does not work properly. Lately a lot of authors commonly pointed-out a potential advantages of modified Loran (e-Loran), however surely still it will be only a potential option, particularly for the southern hemisphere, where this system has never existed. An issue of alternative systems becomes urgent, because of the growing concern about GNSS system operation. The solution should not demand high financial effort, well fit to the existing law and utilize a present technology. The paper presents a general outlook of potential development in a present radar devices considering their use as an element of a positioning system. In this context radar seems to be an attractive option, however its utilization as an alternative for GNSS should reach considerably higher technical performances. The accessible information prove that it is possible to reach a higher accuracy of the position obtained from the modified radar in the future, especially with the suitable navigational infrastructure on shore.
The Satellite Systems Applications to Automate Navigation in the Coastal Zone
Authors: Katenin Vladimir , Boykov Alexey , Katenin Alexander
Published: March 2016

The methods of automatic pilotage along a guided path are well known in the practice of navigation. However these methods have a number of drawbacks, which reduce the effectiveness of their application. It is especially important for river-sea vessel in poor visibility. Because of the large inertia of the vessel and its hydrodynamic properties that are changed by external influences, the process has unstable oscillatory nature. Therefore the vessel moves not in a straight line, but on a winding curve having the general direction that corresponds to the specified value. In this paper new method of coastal navigation with invented new devices supported with satellite navigation receiver is presented.
Harbour Infrastructure Inventory Development with 3D Laser Scanning Method
Authors: Świerczyński Sławomir , Zwolan Piotr
Published: March 2016

In the Polish law harbour infrastructure is one of key elements to determine the various cargo types, available means of transport and, ultimately, the significance of any sea port. The structures, devices and installations situated within a port’s boundaries, dedicated to the swift operation of the port, are all designed for tasks that involve the best use of this infrastructure.

The proper development and modernization of this infrastructure may well result in improved cooperation with road networks and transportation on land. Owing to modern technology, it is possible to scan the surrounding buildings or location with great accuracy and render three-dimensional models of the scanned objects.

These models can be used to generate harbour maps with a detailed 3D picture of the entire port and navigational infrastructure. The authors of this article present the possible applications of modern laser scanning technology in port infrastructure surveying, and in particular in the survey of a complicated wharf line on the Motława River along Długie Pobrzeże Street in Gdańsk.
Electrochemical oxidation of salicylhydroxamic acid on Pt electrode
Authors: Hashem El-Sayed Nady , Eissa Salama Eid
Published: March 2016

The electrochemical oxidation behavior of salicylhydroxamic acid (SHAM) on a Pt electrode was investigated in aqueous solution of different pHs, containing 10 mM of SHAM, at 25°C, by cyclic voltammetry technique. The results indicate that the SHAM was oxidized more easily in alkaline medium than acidic and neutral mediums, and the oxidation peaks of SHAM shifted toward lower potential values by increasing pH values. The SHAM electrooxidation involves an irreversible transfer of one or two electron, depending on the pH of solution. If solution pH is lower than 3 and higher than 7, the two electron transfer is involved in the electrooxidation. While, from pH=3 to pH=7, the SHAM electrooxidation involves an irreversible transfer of one electron and two protons in the first step, in agreement with the one step one-electron mechanism. The effect of SHAM concentration on the electrode reaction was investigated in artificial saliva solution. SHAM gives a single irreversible oxidation wave over the wide concentration range studied. Possible mechanism of SHAM electrooxidation was proposed.