bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internet Transparentnost u Finansijskom Sektoru Bosne i Hercegovine/ Internet Transparency in Financial Sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Zlatković Matea
Published: March 2016

Rezime

Podizanjem kvaliteta korporativnog upravljanja povećava se vrijednost preduzeća na tržištu, omogućuje korištenje svih oblika finansiranja: domaćeg i međunarodnog, javnog i privatnog, a samim tim jača i njihov dugoročni prosperitet. Svrha ovog rada je istraživanje internet transparentnosti u bankama i osiguravajućim društvima Bosne i Hercegovine i uočavanje razlika između sektora banaka i sektora osiguravajućih društava u pogledu stepena transparentnosti pojedinih oblasti iz domena korporativnog upravljanja. Podaci potrebni za istraživanje su dobijeni pregledanjem internet stranica posmatranih subjekata. Rezultati diskriminacione analize su pokazali da postoji razlika u internet transparentnosti između banaka i osiguravajućih društava.
Beauveria brongniartii Sacc. (Petch) against Melolontha spp. white grubs in forest nurseries with different soil pH
Authors: Sierpińska Alicja , Popowska-Nowak Elżbieta , Bednarek Andrzej
Published: March 2016

In 2011, the General Directorate of State Forests in Poland managed 669 forest nurseries on the total area of 2411 ha that produced forest tree seedlings bare root systems, hence vulnerable to Melolontha spp. white grubs. Up to date, no chemical or biological plant protection product for control of cockchafer grubs in forests has been registered in Poland. The study was carried out with the aim to evaluate the efficacy of a biocontrol product Bovecol with BP strain of Beauveria brongniartii on sterilized wheat grain in control of Melolontha spp. white grubs in forest nurseries, established on acidic soils (with pH analogous to that of forest soils) as well as on those alkaline. The active substance of Bovecol was 108 fungal conidia per 1g of the product. Study plots were established in 3 bareroot nurseries, situated in the areas with different soil reaction values and abundant populations of Melolontha spp. white grubs (assessed before Bovecol treatments). The product was applied against L1 larvae (rates in the Czerniawka and Bałtów nurseries: 120 kg/ha and 240 kg/ha) and against L2 larvae (the Iłki nursery: 240 kg/ha). Grub population numbers were assessed 2, 3 and 4 months after the treatments. Application of Bovecol against L1 into the soil with neutral reaction (pH 6.8) caused the reduction of white grub numbers in 2 months, down to the threshold recommended by the Instruction of the protection of forests (mandatory guidelines for the protection of Poland’s State Forests), i.e. less than 1 grub/sampling pit. Bovecol treatment against L1 cockchafer larvae into acidic soil (pH 4.8) had no statistically significant effect on the reduction of grub population numbers, even 4 months after product application. Bovecol treatment against L2 larvae applied into the soil with medium pH value (5.3) gave poorer results when compared to the soil with pH 6.8, but considerably better – when compared to the soil with pH 4.8. The selection of a fungal strain with insecticidal properties against soil insect pests should include the evaluation of strain requirements with regard to soil pH range – optimal for germination, development and growth of a given strain.
The impact of the health condition of oaks from the Krotoszyn Plateau on the mechanical properties of timber structures
Authors: Siwiński Jarosław , Kubiak Katarzyna , Tkaczyk Miłosz , Mazur Anna , Rekucki Ryszard
Published: March 2016

The study was conducted to perform a comparative analysis of the mechanical properties of wood samples derived from oaks in the Krotoszyn Plateau, which depend on the health state of the trees. Strength parameters of oak wood were calculated for selected diseased and healthy trees (according to the Roloff classification). The study was conducted by a modified method described in the standard Polish Norm PN EN 408+ A1: 2012. For testing, prior selection of wood samples showed that more wood samples of diseased trees compared with those of healthy oaks did not fulfil the Polish standard requirements. According to the method used, the average results of strength tests of timber structures from healthy oaks exhibited higher strength parameters than those of the diseased trees.
The amount of carbon in the undergrowth biomass of main types of forests stands in Poland
Authors: Janyszek Sławomir , Strzeliński Paweł , Janyszek Magdalena , Wrońska-Pilarek Dorota
Published: March 2016

The sequestration of carbon in biomass of herb and moss layers of forest ecosystems is relatively less studied, than analogical processes in trees biomass and soil organic mass. The paper presents mean values of carbon concentration and mean amounts of dry mass of plant material in the herb and moss layer of phytocoenoses formed under canopy of stands of main forest-forming species of trees in Poland. The parameters were studied for beech, birch, oak, alder, pine, fir and spruce forest stands, for most of the particular age classes. The studied plots were contained in following plant associations and communities: Ribo nigri-Alnetum, Fraxino-Alnetum, Galio odorati-Fagetum, Luzulo luzuloidis-Fagetum, Molinio caeruleae-Quercetum roboris, Calamagrostio-Quercetum petraeae, Abietetum polonicum, Abieti-Piceetum montanum, Calamagrostio villosae-Piceetum, as well as anthropogenic communities: Betula pendula comm. on Leucobryo-Pinetum habitat, Larix decidua comm. on Tilio-Carpinetum habitat, Pinus sylvestris comm. on Tilio-Carpinetum habitat, Picea abies comm. on Luzulo pilosae-Fagetum habitat (in lowland) and Picea abies comm. on Luzulo luzuloidis-Fagetum habitat (in lower mountain localities). The relatively highest carbon amount was observed in oak forests, pine forests and in older age classes of lowland beech forest, where the carbon concentration in dry mass reaches from 60 to 81%. The lowest concentrations were determined for lowland spruce forests, highland fir forests and for alder forests. The carbon concentration reached in these types of ecosystems from 39 to 41%.
Accuracy of smartphone applications in the field measurements of tree height
Authors: Bijak Szymon , Sarzyński Jakub
Published: March 2016

As tree height is one of the important variables measured in forestry, much effort is made to provide its fast, easy and accurate determination. We analysed precision of two widely available smartphone applications (Smart Measure and Measure Height) during the field measurements of tree height. The data was collected in three Scots pine stands in central Poland. We found negative systematic error of both tested applications regardless the distance of the measurement (15 or 20 m). RMSE values of the height estimates varied from 1.01 to 2.46 m depending on the application used and the distance of the measurement. Value of the calculated absolute and relative errors significantly (p < 0.015) positively depended on the actual height of the measured trees and was more diverse for higher trees. Smartphone applications seem to be promising measurement tool for tree height determination, however as for the time being they require improvement before wider introduction into the forest practice.
Slip effects on squeezing flow of nanofluid between two parallel disks
Authors: Das K. , Jana S. , Acharya N.
Published: March 2016

In this study, the influence of temperature and wall slip conditions on the unsteady flow of a viscous, incompressible and electrically conducting nanofluid squeezed between two parallel disks in the presence of an applied magnetic field is investigated numerically. Using the similarity transformation, the governing coupled partial differential equations are transformed into similarity non-linear ordinary differential equations which are solved numerically using the Nachtsheim and Swigert shooting iteration technique together with the sixth order Runge-Kutta integration scheme. The effects of various emerging parameters on the flow characteristics are determined and discussed in detail. To check the reliability of the method, the numerical results for the skin friction coefficient and Nusselt number in the absence of slip conditions are compared with the results reported by the predecessors and an excellent agreement is observed between the two sets of results.
Radiation and chemical reaction effects on MHD flow along a moving vertical porous plate
Authors: Ramana Reddy G.V. , Bhaskar Reddy N. , Gorla R.S.R.
Published: March 2016

This paper presents an analysis of the effects of magnetohydrodynamic force and buoyancy on convective heat and mass transfer flow past a moving vertical porous plate in the presence of thermal radiation and chemical reaction. The governing partial differential equations are reduced to a system of self-similar equations using the similarity transformations. The resultant equations are then solved numerically using the fourth order Runge-Kutta method along with the shooting technique. The results are obtained for the velocity, temperature, concentration, skin-friction, Nusselt number and Sherwood number. The effects of various parameters on flow variables are illustrated graphically, and the physical aspects of the problem are discussed.
Effects of Hall current on unsteady hydromagnetic free convection flow past an impulsively moving vertical plate with Newtonian heating
Authors: Seth G.S. , Sarkar S. , Sharma R.
Published: March 2016

An investigation of unsteady hydromagnetic free convection flow of a viscous, incompressible and electrically conducting fluid past an impulsively moving vertical plate with Newtonian surface heating embedded in a porous medium taking into account the effects of Hall current is carried out. The governing partial differential equations are first subjected to the Laplace transformation and then inverted numerically using INVLAP routine of Matlab. The governing partial differential equations are also solved numerically by the Crank-Nicolson implicit finite difference scheme and a comparison has been provided between the two solutions. The numerical solutions for velocity and temperature are plotted graphically whereas the numerical results of skin friction and the Nusselt number are presented in tabular form for various parameters of interest. The present solution in special case is compared with a previously obtained solution and is found to be in excellent agreement.
Eigen value approach to two dimensional problem in generalized magneto micropolar thermoelastic medium with rotation effect
Authors: Singh R. , Kumar V.
Published: March 2016

In this study an eigen value approach has been employed to examine the mechanical force applied along with a transverse magnetic field in a two dimensional generalized magneto micropolar thermoelastic infinite space. Results have been obtained by treating rotational velocity to be invariant. Integral transforms have been applied to solve the system of partial differential equations. Components of displacement, normal stress, tangential couple stress, temperature distribution, electric field and magnetic field have been obtained in the transformed domain. Finally numerical inversion technique has been used to invert the result in the physical domain. Graphical analysis has been done to described the study.
Effective interfacial tension effect on the instability of streaming Rivlin-Ericksen elastico-viscous fluid flow through a porous medium
Authors: Singh M.
Published: March 2016

The instability of the plane interface between two uniform, superposed and streaming Rivlin-Ericksen elastico-viscous fluids through porous media, including the ‘effective interfacial tension’ effect, is considered. In the absence of the ‘effective interfacial tension’ stability/instability of the system as well as perturbations transverse to the direction of streaming are found to be unaffected by the presence of streaming if perturbations in the direction of streaming are ignored, whereas for perturbation in all other directions, there exists instability for a certain wave number range. The ‘effective interfacial tension’ is able to suppress this Kelvin-Helmholtz instability for small wavelength perturbations, the medium porosity reduces the stability range given in terms of a difference in streaming velocities.
The Effect of Pendolino high-speed rail on the structure of buildings located in the proximity of railway tracks
Authors: Grębowski K. , Ulman Z.
Published: March 2016

The following research focuses on the dynamic analysis of impact of the high-speed train induced vibrations on the structures located near railway tracks. The office complex chosen as the subject of calculations is located in the northern part of Poland, in Gdańsk, in the proximity of Pendolino, the high speed train route. The high speed trains are the response for the growing needs for a more efficient railway system. However, with a higher speed of the train, the railway induced vibrations might cause more harmful resonance in the structures of the nearby buildings. The damage severity depends on many factors such as the duration of said resonance and the presence of additional loads. The studies and analyses helped to determinate the method of evaluating the impact of railway induced vibrations on any building structure. The dynamic analysis presented in the research is an example of a method which allows an effective calculation of the impact of vibrations via SOFISTIK program.
Lead toxicity: a review
Authors: Wani Ab Latif , Ara Anjum , Usmani Jawed Ahmad
Published: March 2016

Lead toxicity is an important environmental disease and its effects on the human body are devastating. There is almost no function in the human body which is not affected by lead toxicity. Though in countries like US and Canada the use of lead has been controlled up to a certain extent, it is still used vehemently in the developing countries. This is primarily because lead bears unique physical and chemical properties that make it suitable for a large number of applications for which humans have exploited its benefits from historical times and thus it has become a common environmental pollutant. Lead is highly persistent in the environment and because of its continuous use its levels rise in almost every country, posing serious threats. This article reviews the works listed in the literature with recent updates regarding the toxicity of lead. Focus is also on toxic effects of lead on the renal, reproductive and nervous system. Finally the techniques available for treating lead toxicity are presented with some recent updates.
Fatal aluminium phosphide poisoning
Authors: Meena Mahesh Chand , Mittal Sachin , Rani Yashoda
Published: March 2016

Aluminium phosphide (AlP) is a cheap solid fumigant and a highly toxic pesticide which is commonly used for grain preservation. AlP has currently aroused interest with a rising number of cases in the past four decades due to increased use for agricultural and non-agricultural purposes. Its easy availability in the markets has increased also its misuse for committing suicide. Phosphine inhibits cellular oxygen utilization and can induce lipid peroxidation. Poisoning with AlP has often occurred in attempts to commit suicide, and that more often in adults than in teenagers. This is a case of suicidal consumption of aluminium phosphide by a 32-year-old young medical anesthetist. Toxicological analyses detected aluminium phosphide. We believe that free access of celphos tablets in grain markets should be prohibited by law.
Protective efficacy of folic acid and vitamin B12 against nicotine-induced toxicity in pancreatic islets of the rat
Authors: Bhattacharjee Ankita , Prasad Shilpi Kumari , Pal Swagata , Maji Bithin , Syamal Alak Kumar , Banerjee Arnab , Mukherjee Sandip
Published: March 2016

Although cigarette smoking is associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk for type 2 diabetes, few studies have examined the effect of nicotine on the adult endocrine pancreas. In this study, male Wister rats were treated with nicotine (3 mg/kg body weight/day) with or without supplementation of folic acid (36 μg/kg body weight/day) or vitamin B12 (0.63 μg/kg body weight/day) alone or in combination. Fasting blood glucose, insulin and HBA1C level and different oxidative and anti-oxidative stress parameters were measured and pancreatic tissue sections were stained with eosin-haematoxylene. Data were analysed by nonparametric statistics. The results revealed that nicotine induced prediabetes condition with subsequent damage to pancreatic islets in rats. Nicotine also caused oxidative stress in pancreatic tissue as evidenced by increased nitric oxide and malondialdehyde level and decreased superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione level. Compared to vitamin B12 supplementation, folic acid blunted the nicotine-induced toxicity in pancreatic islets with higher efficacy. Further, folic acid and vitamin B12 in combination were able to confer significant protection on pancreatic islets against nicotine induced toxicity. These results suggest that supplementation of folic acid and vitamin B12 in combination may be a possible strategy of detoxification against nicotine-induced toxicity in pancreatic islets of the rat.
The neurochemical profile of the hippocampus in isoflurane-treated and unanesthetized rat pups
Authors: Menshanov Petr N. , Akulov Andrey E.
Published: March 2016

In vivo study of cerebral metabolism in neonatal animals by high-resolution magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is an important tool for deciphering the developmental origins of adult diseases. Up to date, all in vivo spectrum acquisition procedures have been performed in neonatal rodents under anesthesia. However, it is still unknown if the inhaled anesthetic isoflurane, which is commonly used in magnetic resonance imaging studies, could affect metabolite levels in the brain of neonatal rats. Moreover, the unanesthetized MRS preparation that uses neonatal rodent pups is still lacking.

Here, a novel restraint protocol was developed for neonatal rats in accordance with the European Directive 2010/63/EU. This protocol shares the same gradation of severity as the protocol for non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging of animals with appropriate sedation or anesthesia. Such immobilization of neonatal rats without anesthesia can be implemented for MRS studies when an interaction between anesthetic and target drugs is expected. Short-term isoflurane treatment did not affect the levels of key metabolites in the hippocampi of anesthetized pups and, in contrast to juvenile and adult rodents, it is suitable for MRS studies in neonatal rats when the interaction between anesthetic and target drugs is not expected.
Expression of calmodulin-related genes in lead-exposed mice
Authors: Li Sun , Liu Xiao-Lin , Zhou Xie-Lai , Jiang Su-Jun , Yuan Hong
Published: March 2016

The toxic metal lead is a widespread environmental polutant that can adversely affect human health. However, the underlying mechanisms of lead-induced toxicity are still largely unknown. The mechanism of lead toxicity was presumed to involve cross reaction between Pb2+ and Ca2+ with calmodulin dependent systems. The aim of the present study was thus to identify differential expression of calmodulin-related genes in the spleen of lead-exposed mice. We performed microarray analysis to identify differentially expressed genes. RNAs from spleen tissue of lead exposed animals (n=6) and controls (n=6) were converted to labeled cRNA and hybridized to Illumina mouse WG-6_v2_Bead Chip. Expression profiles were analyzed using Illumina BeadStudio Application. Real-time RT-PCR was conducted to validate the microarray data. By microarray analysis 5 calmodulin-related genes (MAP2K6, CAMKK2, CXCR4, PHKA2, MYLK) were found to be differently expressed in lead exposed compared with control mice (p<0.05). The results of Real-time RT-PCR showed that MAP2K6 and CAMKK2 were up-regulated and CXCR4 was down-regulated in lead exposure, but there were no significant differences in PHKA2 and MYLK expression between the lead exposed and control group. These results show that lead exposure produced significant changes in expression of a variety of genes in the spleen and can affect calmodulin-related gene expression.
Modulatory effect of Mangifera indica against carbon tetrachloride induced kidney damage in rats
Authors: Awodele Olufunsho , Adeneye Adejuwon Adewale , Aiyeola Sheriff Aboyade , Benebo Adokiye Senibo
Published: March 2016

There is little scientific evidence on the local use of Mangifera indica in kidney diseases. This study investigated the reno-modulatory roles of the aqueous stem bark extract of Mangifera indica (MIASE) against CCl4-induced renal damage. Rats were treated intragastrically with 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg/day MIASE for 7 days before and after the administration of CCl4 (3 ml/kg of 30% CCl4, i.p.). Serum levels of electrolytes (Na+, K+, Cl−, HCO3
−), urea and creatinine were determined. Renal tissue reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), superoxide (SOD) activities were also assessed. The histopathological changes in kidneys were determined using standard methods. In CCl4 treated rats the results showed significant (p<0.05) increases in serum Na+, K+, Cl−, urea and creatinine. CCl4 also caused significant (p<0.05) decreases in renal tissue SOD, CAT and GSH and significant (p<0.05) increases in MDA. The oral MIASE treatment (125–500 mg/kg) was found to significantly (p<0.05) attenuate the increase in serum electrolytes, urea and creatinine. Similarly, MIASE significantly (p<0.05) attenuated the decrease in SOD, CAT and GSH levels and correspondingly attenuated increases in MAD. Mangifera indica may present a great prospect for drug development in the management of kidney disease with lipid peroxidation as its etiology.
Simulative Analysis of Multi-tone RoF Transmission System
Authors: Singh Kulwinder , Singh Rustam Ram , Kaur Amandeep
Published: March 2016

This paper deals with the design of multi-tone Radio over Fiber (RoF) system, which could efficiently support increasing demand of new services and increasing user traffic. It analyzed electrical power at different frequencies, SNR at input power P
Labordiagnostik bei der monoklonalen Gammopathie unklarer Signifikanz (MGUS)
Authors: Gässler Norbert C.
Published: March 2016

In unserem Labor finden wir immer wieder bei der Durchführung der Serumelektrophorese oder bei der umfangreichen Liquordiagnostik (Reiber-Schema) als sogenannte Zufallsbefunde monoklonale Gammopathien. Sollten in der Tat keine klinischen Symptome hierfür charakteristisch sein so sprechen wir von der monoklonalen Gammopathie unbestimmter Signifikanz (MGUS). In der beiliegenden Publikation habe ich einen echten Zufallsbefund und zwei vermeintliche Zufallsbefunde beschrieben.
Laboratory testing for systemic autoimmune diseases
Authors: Diller Magnus , Fleck Martin
Published: March 2016

The detection of autoantibodies is well established in daily clinical practice for evaluation of systemic autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), connective tissue diseases and vasculitides. Rheumatoid factor (RF) or the anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) is only observed in approximately 80% of patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Anti-CarP autoantibodies might serve as a novel marker, filling this gap. The detection of anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) facilitates the diagnosis of connective tissue diseases. Elevated levels of anti-centromer antibodies, anti-topoisomerase I [anti-Scl-70] antibodies and the anti-RNA polymerase III antibodies, which belong to the group of ANA, are frequently present in the serum of patients suffering from systemic sclerosis and are therefore incorporated into the new classification criteria. To establish the diagnosis of an antiphospholipid syndrome, the detection of the lupus anticoagulant and the aCL-/anti-β2GPI-antibodies of IgG, IgM and IgA isotypes plays a pivotal role. The anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs) are associated with vasculitides of small vessels. Screening with immunofluorescence testing (IFT) is established as the first step followed by additional immunoassays specific for proteinase 3 (PR3) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) autoantibodies. Novel bedside test procedures for these antibodies allow an early diagnosis in critically ill patients. New biomarkers for polymyalgia rheumatic and for spondyloarthritides are also described, but their clinical relevance remains uncertain and necessitates further studies.
Estimated population size of two South American sea lion male haulouts from the northern coast of Argentina
Authors: Giardino Gisela , Bastida Julián , Mandiola M. Agustina , Bastida Ricardo , Rodríguez Diego
Published: March 2016

Knowledge of the real size of any wild population is an essential tool to take management and conservation measures and even more so when the population studied may have potential conflicts with humans. Because of this, the objective of this study was to estimate the population size of two South American sea lion male haul-outs using mark-resighting techniques. The results showed that on average, the estimated total number of animals tripled the number of animals recorded by direct counting. These findings demonstrate that it is necessary to continue researching population estimate methods to apply when taking conservation measures in the future.
Chemoselective access to substituted butenolides via a radical cyclization pathway: mechanistic study, limits and application
Authors: Boussonnière Anne , Bénéteau Romain , Rouaud Jean-Christophe , Despiau Carole , Lebreton Jacques , Dénès Fabrice
Published: March 2016

We developed a new approach to γ-lactols and methylene-γ-lactols based upon the radical cyclization of aluminium acetals obtained by reduction of α-bromoesters with DIBAL-H. The cyclic aluminium acetals resulting from the cyclization process could engage in situ in further functionalization, as illustrated by the Oppenauer-type oxidation to give the corresponding lactones and γ-butenolides. The preparation of butenolides using this strategy compared favourably with the direct, tin-mediated cyclization of α-bromoesters, for which side reactions such as epimerization via [1,5]-HAT processes have been observed.
Retrospective analysis of prenatal echcardiography findings in cases of congenital heart defects: comparison with postnatal pulmonary hypertension revealed by lungs histopathology (2010-2015)
Authors: Romanowicz Hanna , Czichos Ewa , Zych-Krekora Katarzyna , Krekora Michał , Słodki Maciej , Respondek-Liberska Maria
Published: March 2016

Introduction:

It was retrospective analysis of prenatal echocardiography findings in fetuses with congenital heart defects, who died in our institution and had an autopsy exams in years 2010 - 2015.

Material and methods:

Among total 115 deaths the pulmonary hypertension based on histopathology criteria was present in 83 cases (72%) as a leading cause of their deaths. Out of 83 neonates 40 underwent prenatal echo, 43 did not, however in both groups there were similar types of heart defects.

Results:

The prenatal echo findings from study group (n=40), from the last echo before the delivery were compared with control group and group of HLHS who did survive neonatal surgery and were discharged from hospital. There were statistical differences between pulmonary artery/aorta ratio in fetuses in control group and fetuses in study group („pulmonary hypertension” after birth) (p=0,044). There were statistical differences between pre-delivery pulmonary artery/aorta ratio in fetuses in study group (with „pulmonary hypertension” after birth) and in group of fetuses with HLHS, alive & well after first surgery (p=0,027). There were no differences between pulmonary artery/ aorta ratio fetuses in control group and fetuses with HLHS, alive & well after first surgery (p=0,38)

Conclusion:

1) Pulmonary hypertension was a frequent cause of neonatal deaths among our series of congenital heart defects

2) Dilatation of pulmonary artery (and increased pulmonary/artery ratio ) in fetal echo just before delivery may be an important risk factor for poor neonatal outcome in congenital heart defects.)
Comments on a report of the aorto-pulmonary window (APW ) type I coexisting with pulmonary valve stenosis and occluded arterial duct, detected prenatally at 26 weeks of gestation
Authors: Rudziński Andrzej
Published: March 2016

In the article a case of a little APW coincidented with pulmonary stenosis (the first such description in Poland) in 26-week-old fetus of a thirty-two-year-old woman, gravida 3, was presented1.
Phosphanchalkogenide und ihre Metallkomplexe. IV. Halogenierungsprodukte der Gold(I)halogenidkomplexe einiger Diphosphanmonochalkogenide
Authors: Taouss Christina , Jones Peter G.
Published: March 2016

Diphosphanegold(I) complexes of the form dppmEAuX [dppm = bis(diphenylphosphano)methane, E = S, Se; X = Br, I], dppeEAuX [dppe = 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphano)ethane; E = O, S; X = Br, I] and dppbzEAuX [dppbz = 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphano)benzene; E = S, Se, X = Br, I] were treated with elemental X2. With dppm, the three products [dppmEAuX2]+X3
– (E = S, X = Br (1), I (2); E = Se, X = I (3) were obtained in quantitative yield. These are gold(III) complexes involving a five-membered ring . With dppe, the only related product was [dppeEAuBr2]+Br3
– (4), in which the central ring is six-membered with two carbon atoms. These dppe systems are very sensitive to oxidation/hydrolysis of the ligand, and several such unintended products were isolated and identified. The reaction of dppbzSAuBr with bromine leads to [dppbzS]2+[AuBr4]–Br– (5), the dication of which is formally 1,1,3,3-tetraphenylbenzo[d]-2-thia-1, 3-diphosphol-1,3-diium and contains a central five-membered ring . The dications are associated with the bromide anions via S…Br contacts of ca. 3.1 Å to form inversion-symmetric S2Br2 rings. The halogenation of the dppbzSe derivatives leads to loss of selenium and formation of dppbzAuBr3 (6), with [4+1] coordination at gold, or the known compound [dppbzAuI2]+I3
– (7). All products 1–6 were subjected to X-ray diffraction analyses, as were four hydrolysis products 4a–d and two further by-products [5(thtBr+)·2Br3
–·3(AuBr4
–)] (1a) and (tht)AuBr3 (1b). Compound 1a displays unusually short Br…Br contacts of 3.2398(8) Å between neighbouring tetrabromidoaurate(III) ions.
Menthol Alone Upregulates Midbrain nAChRs, Alters nAChR Subtype Stoichiometry, Alters Dopamine Neuron Firing Frequency, and Prevents Nicotine Reward
Authors: Henderson Brandon J. , Wall Teagan R. , Henley Beverley M. , Kim Charlene H. , Nichols Weston A. , Moaddel Ruin , Xiao Cheng , Lester Henry A.
Published: March 2016

Upregulation of β2 subunit-containing (β2*) nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) is implicated in several aspects of nicotine addiction, and menthol cigarette smokers tend to upregulate β2* nAChRs more than nonmenthol cigarette smokers. We investigated the effect of long-term menthol alone on midbrain neurons containing nAChRs. In midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons from mice containing fluorescent nAChR subunits, menthol alone increased the number of α4 and α6 nAChR subunits, but this upregulation did not occur in midbrain GABAergic neurons. Thus, chronic menthol produces a cell-type-selective upregulation of α4* nAChRs, complementing that of chronic nicotine alone, which upregulates α4 subunit-containing (α4*) nAChRs in GABAergic but not DA neurons. In mouse brain slices and cultured midbrain neurons, menthol reduced DA neuron firing frequency and altered DA neuron excitability following nAChR activation. Furthermore, menthol exposure before nicotine abolished nicotine reward-related behavior in mice. In neuroblastoma cells transfected with fluorescent nAChR subunits, exposure to 500 nmmenthol alone also increased nAChR number and favored the formation of (α4)3(β2)2nAChRs; this contrasts with the action of nicotine itself, which favors (α4)2(β2)3nAChRs. Menthol alone also increases the number of α6β2 receptors that exclude the β3 subunit. Thus, menthol stabilizes lower-sensitivity α4* and α6 subunit-containing nAChRs, possibly by acting as a chemical chaperone. The abolition of nicotine reward-related behavior may be mediated through menthol's ability to stabilize lower-sensitivity nAChRs and alter DA neuron excitability. We conclude that menthol is more than a tobacco flavorant: administered alone chronically, it alters midbrain DA neurons of the nicotine reward-related pathway.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMenthol, the most popular flavorant for tobacco products, has been considered simply a benign flavor additive. However, as we show here, menthol alone exerts several neurobiological changes. We are among the first to show that menthol, by itself, increases the number of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the mouse brain. It does so at a dose that matches nicotine in its ability to increase nAChR number. At this same dose, menthol also alters midbrain dopamine neuron function and prevents nicotine reward-related behavior. Together, our data show that menthol is more than an “inert” flavor additive and is able to change the function of midbrain dopamine neurons that are part of the mesolimbic reward pathway.
The Odorant Receptor-Dependent Role of Olfactory Marker Protein in Olfactory Receptor Neurons
Authors: Dibattista Michele , Reisert Johannes
Published: March 2016

Olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) in the nasal cavity detect and transduce odorants into action potentials to be conveyed to the olfactory bulb. Odorants are delivered to ORNs via the inhaled air at breathing frequencies that can vary from 2 to 10 Hz in the mouse. Thus olfactory transduction should occur at sufficient speed such that it can accommodate repetitive and frequent stimulation. Activation of odorant receptors (ORs) leads to adenylyl cyclase III activation, cAMP increase, and opening of cyclic nucleotide-gated channels. This makes the kinetic regulation of cAMP one of the important determinants for the response time course. We addressed the dynamic regulation of cAMP during the odorant response and examined how basal levels of cAMP are controlled. The latter is particularly relevant as basal cAMP depends on the basal activity of the expressed OR and thus varies across ORNs. We found that olfactory marker protein (OMP), a protein expressed in mature ORNs, controls both basal and odorant-induced cAMP levels in an OR-dependent manner. Lack of OMP increases basal cAMP, thus abolishing differences in basal cAMP levels between ORNs expressing different ORs. Moreover, OMP speeds up signal transduction for ORNs to better synchronize their output with high-frequency stimulation and to perceive brief stimuli. Last, OMP also steepens the dose–response relation to improve concentration coding although at the cost of losing responses to weak stimuli. We conclude that OMP plays a key regulatory role in ORN physiology by controlling multiple facets of the odorant response.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTOdorant receptors (ORs) form the largest family of G-protein-coupled receptors in mammals and are expressed in olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs). In this paper we show how the olfactory system ensures that monogenic expression of ORs dictates the response profile and the basal noise of ORNs. Olfactory marker protein (OMP), a protein long known to be expressed in mature ORNs, is responsible for controlling appropriate cAMP homeostasis and dynamics to ensure that the expressed OR is the main source of noise. In addition, OMP regulates the dynamic range of ORNs in an OR-dependent way to allow for concentration-dependent odor coding.
Creating the Modern Physician: The Architecture of American Medical Schools in the Era of Medical Education Reform
Authors: Carroll Katherine L.
Published: March 2016

In the late nineteenth century, the American system of medical education underwent a complete transformation. Medical colleges shifted from commercial schools where instruction was based almost exclusively on classroom lectures to university-affiliated programs providing hands-on training in both laboratory and clinical work. Medical educators recognized that successfully enacting the new pedagogy required new buildings. By the 1930s, almost every medical college in the United States had rebuilt or significantly renovated its facilities. In Creating the Modern Physician: The Architecture of American Medical Schools in the Era of Medical Education Reform, Katherine L. Carroll analyzes the first wave of schools constructed to house the new medical training. She examines the three dominant types of American medical school buildings, which she argues did more than supply spaces for teaching and research—they defined specific conceptions of modern medicine and helped to shape the modern physician.
MECHANISMS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: Tissue-specific activation of cortisol in Cushing’s syndrome
Authors: Morgan Stuart A , Hassan-Smith Zaki K , Lavery Gareth G
Published: March 2016

Glucocorticoids are widely prescribed for their anti-inflammatory properties, but have ‘Cushingoid’ side effects including visceral obesity, muscle myopathy, hypertension, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, and hepatic steatosis. These features are replicated in patients with much rarer endogenous glucocorticoid (GC) excess (Cushing’s syndrome), which has devastating consequences if left untreated. Current medical therapeutic options that reverse the tissue-specific consequences of hypercortisolism are limited. In this article, we review the current evidence that local GC metabolism via the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) plays a central role in mediating the adverse metabolic complications associated with circulatory GC excess – challenging our current view that simple delivery of active GCs from the circulation represents the most important mode of GC action. Furthermore, we explore the potential for targeting this enzyme as a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of both endogenous and exogenous Cushing’s syndrome.
IN VITRO ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY AND PHYTOCHEMICAL STUDIES OF TERMINALIA CHEBULA AGAINST THE MICROBES ISOLATED FROM FRUIT JUICES
Authors: Dhiman Romika , Kumar Aggarwal Neeraj , Aneja K.R. , Kaur Manpreet , Kumar Vikas
Published: March 2016

The present work has been conducted to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of Terminalia chebula against microorganisms associated with juices. Methanol, ethanol, acetone, and aqueous ( hot and cold) extracts from fruits of T. chebula were tested for their antimicrobial activity through agar well diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC)/minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were determined through the macrodilution broth method against Bacillus cereus, Serratia sp. and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. Their total phenolic content and total tannin content were also evaluated. Organic and cold aqueous extracts displayed activity against all three tested microbes. There were highly positive relationship between antimicrobial activities and phenolic and tannin content of the tested extracts against each microorganism. Methanolic extract was found to be best against all tested microbes with lowest MIC of 0.78 mg/ml and MBC of 1.56 mg/ml and showed better antimicrobial activity than sodium benzoate. Therefore, methanolic extract of T. chebula has a biopreservative potential in fruit juices.
DETERMINING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PARAMETERS OF TEXTURE AND CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF HIGHLY-EFFICIENT SMOKED SIRLOINS
Authors: Rudy Mariusz , Marchel Magdalena , Duma Paulina
Published: March 2016

Food texture can be assessed by organoleptic and instrumental methods or using both methods simultaneously. The sensory assessment should be supplemented by objective methods of the instrumental analysis, which are based on the measurement of physical features. In this connection the aim of the research was to analyze the relationship between instrumentally measured parameters of texture of highly-efficient smoked sirloins and the marked features in the products such as: the content of protein, fat, water and shear force. Studies were conducted on 120 highly-efficient smoked sirloins (the Sopocka Sirloin) which were bought in one shop of a popular chain of shops located in Rzeszów. Texture parameters of smoked sirloins were marked instrumentally using the texture profile analysis (TPA) conducted by texturometer Texture Analyser – CT3 – 25 Brookfield company with the attachment made by a cone of about 30 mm in diameter, about 36 mm long and of the angle of 60o. Next marking of chemical composition was conducted using the analyzer of chemical composition NIR - FoodCheck (Bruins company). There was also conducted the measurement of shear force value was carried out using Warner – Bratzler shear device. Relationships between analysed parameters were set by calculating of cofactors of the Pearson's line correlation.
STIMULATORY EFFECT OF AMYGDALIN ON THE VIABILITY AND STEROID HORMONE SECRETION BY PORCINE OVARIAN GRANULOSA CELLS IN VITRO
Authors: Halenár Marek , Tušimová Eva , Nynca Anna , Sadowska Agnieszka , Ciereszko Renata , Kolesárová Adriana
Published: March 2016

Amygdalin has been one of the most popular “alternative cancer cures” in many European and South American countries. Its anticancer, anti-inflammatory activity and other medicinal benefits have been known for many years. The objective of this in vitro study was to examine the potential impact of amygdalin on the cell viability and production of steroid hormone testosterone by porcine ovarian granulosa cells. Granulosa cells were isolated from porcine ovaries and subsequently cultured without (control) or with amygdalin at various doses (1; 10; 100; 1000 and 10 000 μg/mL) for 24 h. The cell viability was determined by alamarBlueTM reagent and release of testosterone was assayed by ELISA. Obtained results showed a significant (P
CHARACTERISTIC OF SELECTED SOIL STREPTOMYCETES WITH ANTIMICROBIAL POTENTIAL AGAINST PHYTOPATHOGENIC MICROORGANISMS
Authors: Charousová Ivana , Javoreková SoÅa , Medo Juraj , Schade Romy
Published: March 2016

The main objective of the present study was isolation and identification of soil streptomycetes, having antibacterial and antifungal activity against 8 selected phytopathogenic microorganisms, which attack crops in Slovakia. Out of 27 morphologically different streptomycete isolates, 14 of them demonstrated antimicrobial activity against at least two tested microorganisms in primary screening. Ethylacetate extract used for secondary screening showed different inhibitory pattern in comparison with primary screening. The tested isolates were mostly active against Gram-positive bacterium Clavibacter michiganensis subps. sepedonicus, the causal agent of bacterial canker of tomaten and against fungus Fusarium poae, pathogen of cereals, which can also infest stored grains. Only three isolates, namely VY59, VY87 and VY47 showed broad spectrum of inhibition activity and therefore were used for further identification. On the basis of various morphological (color of aerial and substrate mycelium, growth, production of pigments and melanin on ISP media), physiological (optimal pH, temperature, NaCl tolerance and C-utilization) and biochemical (ApiZym and ApiCoryne stripes) methods these strains belonged to the genus Streptomyces. In addition to the antimicrobial profile, the strains differed in API ZYM test results, which imply that the selected strains might produce different antimicrobial substances. Throught the comparative analysis of 16S rRNA gene, the most active isolates contained different nucleotide sequences for the 16S rRNA gene. Sequence similarity search by BLAST program revealed that they show sequence similarities to Streptomyces somaliensis (VY59), Streptomyces sp. (VY87) and Streptomyces albidoflavus (VY47). These three isolates with broader spectrum of antimicrobial activity can be used in the development of substances for agriculture purposes.
Projeto terapêutico em Saúde Mental: práticas e processos nas dimensões constituintes da atenção psicossocial
Authors: Vasconcelos Mardênia Gomes Ferreira , Jorge Maria Salete Bessa , Catrib Ana Maria Fontenelle , Bezerra Indara Cavalcante , Franco Túlio Batista
Published: March 2016

Palavras-chave Objetivou-se compreender o cuidado psicossocial, tendo como analisador o projeto terapêutico dos usuários, a partir das narrativas de profissionais dos serviços. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, embasada na Hermenêutica. As narrativas contextualizam um cenário marcado pelas dimensões epistemológica e técnico-assistencial da atenção psicossocial. O projeto terapêutico descaracteriza-se de sua concepção abrangente, de processo dinâmico, para ser concretizado a partir de um trabalho fragmentado pela especialização. A pesquisa provocou um movimento de reflexão dos profissionais, a partir da problematização de projetos terapêuticos, abrindo caminhos para a reformulação das ações da equipe, numa proposta de trabalho da equipe interdisciplinar. Foi evidente a escassez de discussões que considerassem o protagonismo dos usuários e da família na construção do projeto terapêutico, revelando, assim, a fragilidade das ações de cuidado psicossocial nas dimensões que consideram a participação e construção de cidadania.
Cuando la alegría entra al centro de salud: una experiencia de promoción de salud en Buenos Aires, Argentína
Authors: Bang Claudia , Stolkiner Alicia , Corín Marcela
Published: March 2016

Como parte de una investigación posdoctoral, el presente trabajo describe y analiza una experiencia de promoción y educación para la salud integral desarrollada por un Centro de Salud y Acción Comunitaria en una zona marginal urbana del sur de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires. Se trata de un estudio exploratorio-descriptivo que utiliza técnicas cualitativas para el trabajo de campo y análisis del material. En articulación con las dimensiones de la APS integral, se describe y analiza un dispositivo vincular, centrado en la interdisciplina y la articulación intersectorial como elementos clave de la organización de los cuidados en salud, con la inclusión de la dimensión intercultural y la participación comunitaria. Se incorporan actividades de promoción de salud integral centradas en el arte, creatividad y juego, constituyéndose en una experiencia resistencial al modelo biomédico de atención, con fuerte impacto subjetivo en los profesionales y la comunidad participante.