bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of arterial stiffness in systolic heart failure
Authors: Fehérvári Lajos , Szabó István Adorján , Kocsis Lóránd , Frigy Attila 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Objective: Micro- and macrovascular changes can occur in heart failure, and could influence its prognosis and management. In a prospective study, we proposed the evaluation of arterial stiffness (macrovascular function) and its correlations in patients with systolic heart failure.

Methods: 40 patients (32 men, 8 women, mean age 63±2.9 years), with hemodynamically stable systolic heart failure (left ventricular ejection fraction, EF<40%) were enrolled in the study. In every patient, beyond routine explorations (ECG, cardiac and carotid ultrasound, laboratory measurements), arterial stiffness was assessed by measuring pulse wave velocity (PWV). The correlations of PWV with clinical and echo-cardiographic characteristics were studied using t-test and chi-square test (p<0.05 being considered for statistical significance).

Results: The average PWV was 8.55±2.2 m/s, and 16 patients had increased PWV (>10 m/s). We found significantly higher PWV values in patients older than 65 years (p<0.001), in patients with eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 (p<0.001), hypertension (p=0.006), and increased (>1 mm) carotid intima-media thickness (p=0.016). PWV was found to be significantly lower when EF was <30% (p=0.049). Furthermore, the presence of an increased PWV was correlated significantly with age (p<0.001), and (with borderline significance) with eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and, inversely, with EF<30%.

Conclusions: Increased arterial stiffness reflected by high PWV is frequently present in patients with systolic heart failure, and is mainly correlated with general risk factors of arterial involvement. Low EF, due to low stroke volume and decreased systolic arterial wall tension can influence the values and the interpretation of PWV.
Beneficial effects of metformin on haloperidol-induced motor deficits in rats. A behavioral assessment
Authors: Jîtcă George , Gáll Zsolt , Vari Camil E , Ősz Bianca E , Tero-Vescan Amelia , Groșan Alexandra , Dogaru Maria T. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Objective: One of the most common side effects of haloperidol is the extrapyramidal syndrome, resulting from inhibition of nigrostriatal dopaminergic circuits and mitochondrial dysfunction due to structural similarities to pyridinium derivative, MPP+ that induce oxidative stress. In exchange, the use of metformin appears to enhance neurogenesis, energy metabolism, and oxidative status, so these properties can be speculated in the context of drug-induced pseudoparkinsonism by haloperidol. Methods: To assess motor coordination and activity, rodents were divided into four groups: CTR (n = 10) - animals that received distilled water, METF (n = 10) - animals that received metformin 500 mg / kgbw, HAL (n = 10) - animals that received haloperidol 2mg / kgbw, HALMETF (n = 10) - haloperidol 2mg / kgbw and metformin 500 mg / kgbw. The treatment was administered for 34 days at the same time by gastric gavage, during which time behavioral tests, rotarod (days 7, 14, 21, 28), catalepsy (day 30), open field (day 32) and novel object recognition (day 34) were performed. Results: The monitored parameters, showed significant differences between the groups of interest (HAL and HALMETF respectively), so that the administration of metformin at the beginning of treatment reduces the cataleptic behavior. The HALMETF group shows an attenuation of the motor deficit during the rotarod test and the freezing period from the Open Field test, is diminished. Conclusions: Metformin treatment has a beneficial effect in haloperidol-treated rats, demonstrated by decreased cataleptic behavior, improved motor performance and reduced haloperidol-induced anxiety behavior.
Three-dimensional technologies used for patient specific applications in orthopedics
Authors: Moldovan Flaviu , Bataga Tiberiu 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Background: Three-dimensional (3D) technologies have numerous medical applications and have gained a lot of interest in medical world. After the advent of three-dimensional printing technology, and especially in last decade, orthopedic surgeons began to apply this innovative technology in almost all areas of orthopedic traumatic surgery. Objective: The aim of this paper is to give an overview of 3D technologies current usage in orthopedic surgery for patient specific applications. Methods: Two major databases PubMed and Web of Science were explored for content description and applications of 3D technologies in orthopedic surgery. It was considered papers presenting controlled studies and series of cases that include descriptions of 3D technologies compatible with applications to human medical purposes. Results: First it is presented the available three-dimensional technologies that can be used in orthopedic surgery as well as methods of integration in order to achieve the desired medical application for patient specific orthopedics. Technology starts with medical images acquisition, followed by design, numerical simulation, and printing. Then it is described the state of the art clinical applications of 3D technologies in orthopedics, by selecting the latest reported articles in medical literature. It is focused on preoperative visualization and planning, trauma, injuries, elective orthopedic surgery, guides and customized surgical instrumentation, implants, orthopedic fixators, orthoses and prostheses. Conclusion: The new 3D digital technologies are revolutionizing orthopedic clinical practices. The vast potential of 3D technologies is increasingly used in clinical practice. These technologies provide useful tools for clinical environment: accurate preoperative planning for cases of complex trauma and elective cases, personalized surgical instruments and personalized implants. There is a need to further explore the vast potential of 3D technologies in many other areas of orthopedics and to accommodate healthcare professionals with these technologies, as well as to study their effectiveness compared to conventional methods.
Innovative Local Policies in Portuguese Low-Density Rural Areas
Authors: Lopes Raul , Mota Bruno 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Nowadays, the issue of rural development has a central place on the agenda of policy-makers, prompting a discussion on the instrumental and procedural options of public policies. This paper seeks to contribute to the reflection on the potentialities and limitations of promoting rural development based on innovative strategies sustained by territorial governance modalities, which entail an active involvement of local agents, especially local authorities. For this, it takes as case studies three public policy experiences led by local authorities within a Portuguese low-density region, with one of the lowest development rates among EU regions. Specifically, it aims to discuss: (a) the effectiveness of adopting innovative policies in the context of low-density rural areas; and (2) the role of territorial governance in the success of those policies. The research followed a document analysis and interviews with local development actors. The analysis suggests that peripheral rural areas are not condemned to human desertification. There is a wide spectrum of opportunities for these areas. They can bring together a strategic view of the future, and an institutional leadership capable of dynamizing an adjusted territorial governance model. This is the challenge currently facing rural development policy.
Closeness is Not Accessibility: Isolation and Depopulated Rural Areas in the Proximity of Metropolitan Urban Areas, A Case-Study in Inland Spain
Authors: Martínez Sánchez-Mateos H. S. , Ruiz Pulpón A. R. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The increase of accessibility is one of the most important strategies to achieve territorial cohesion and slow down depopulation processes in rural areas. Accessibility is a wide concept with a range of interpretations. When it comes to rural areas, usual accessibility measures introducing proximity and ease of physical connection could lead to misinterpretations and a lack of knowledge for rural areas. This study proposes an accessibility analysis based on connection and function of one of the most depopulated territories in inland Spain: the province of Guadalajara (NUTS-3) which constitutes an interesting case-study because its proximity to the Spanish capital city (Madrid) and the integration of part of the province on its dynamics and economic processes. Results show different rural accessibility levels useful for public policies and decision making on infrastructures. In addition, the accessibility model suggested can be applied in other depopulated rural areas of Europe.
Localisation of S100 Protein and Acetylated Tubulin in Sheep Pancreas
Authors: Marettová E. , Maretta M. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The pancreas plays a critical role in the control of nutritional homeostasis. It consists of two major parts, the exocrine pancreas, and the endocrine pancreas. In the present study S100 protein and acetylated α-tubulin were used to identify positive structures in both the exocrine and endocrine part of the ovine pancreas. In the exocrine part of the pancreas, a positive reaction to S100 protein was confined to centroacinar cells, intercalated, and intralobular ducts cells. In addition, the S100 protein was localized in the Schwann cells of nerve fibres. On the pancreatic islets, the S100 protein has been observed in Schwann cells of nerve axons, where they form a fine envelope that invests the islet surface. Inside the pancreatic islets, the Schwann cells positive for S100 protein envelope the endocrine cells of the islets. The difference in positivity of the S100 protein was found in relation to the endocrine cells. The relationship between endocrine cell positivity and positive exocrine duct cells was discussed. Acetylated α-tubulin (AT) was restricted to axons of the nerve fibres and was located within the connective tissue accompanying intralobular and inter-lobular ducts, and between secretory acini in close contact with secretory cells.
Field Survey on the Status of Internal Parasites in Young Calves on Farms in Eastern Slovakia
Authors: Band N. , Halán M. , Kočišová A. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the species composition of protozoan and helminth parasites of young calves on farms in eastern Slovakia. Faecal samples from calves were analysed using the floatation technique, McMaster Methods and stained slide method for Cryptosporidium spp. From 105 samples analysed, nine samples (8.6 %) were suspected to be positive for Cryptosporidium spp. The results gathered from this study displayed that 64.8 % of calves were infected with some species of parasite at the moment of sampling. The highest prevalence of infection was with Eimeria spp. with 56.2 % of calves infected being positive for this. OPG (oocysts per gram) values for Eimeria spp. observed in this study ranged from 100 to 75,200. The lowest prevalence was found to be from Giardia duodenalis and Trichostrongylidae family equally 0.95 %. All faecal samples had nematode egg counts below 50 EPG (eggs per gram).
Health Assessment of Internal Hygiene Control in Sauce Production
Authors: Vitkova Tsvetelina G. 
Published: July 2021

Summary
Nowadays, usage of sauces as part of a meal has seen a significant increase. In their diversity as raw materials and technology of production, sauces are a potential source of health problems. During their production, primary and secondary contamination with microorganisms and other physical or chemical contaminants is possible. Ineffective internal control is a prerequisite for the emergence of health problems among consumers. The subject of the study is а sauce manufacturer. An algorithm was designed to perform the audit and for the purposes of the. The prerequisite measures were placed in separate Good Hygiene Practices (GHP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) programs and in the technological documentation for all the sauces produced, with plans, procedures, orders, instructions, lists, registers and other documents, all closely related to the specifics of production. The technological documentation was found to be in agreement with the Food Safety Management System – the HACCP-plan. The technological documentation, which is part of the prerequisite measures, corresponded to its purpose and, with slight adjustments, is a good basis for the effective functioning of the Food Safety Management System. The conclusions contain specific recommendations for revision of the Internal Control System, including correction of elements of health and hygiene importance.
Application of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery Protocols in Colorectal Cancer, Complicated by Malignant Bowel Obstruction: a Review of the Literature
Authors: Dimitrov Vasil M. 
Published: July 2021

Summary
Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols are standard in elective colorectal surgery. They lead to decreasing postoperative complications and shorten the hospital stay and the recovery period. Following these protocols is associated with better short-term results and better and disease-free survival in cases of respectable colorectal carcinomas. There is clear evidence of the beneficial effect of the protocols in reducing the rate of postoperative complications and shortening the hospital stay after elective colorectal surgery. There remains the question of whether these protocols are applicable effective in patients after emergency colorectal surgery. Over the last years, safe and effective ERAS protocols have been reported in patients with life-threatening conditions such as colorectal obstruction and intraabdominal infection.
Some of the Immunogenetics Aspects of Aging
Authors: Al Hadra Bushra N. 
Published: July 2021

Summary
The human life span could be influenced by the combined effect of environment, lifestyle, and genetic factors. Twin and family studies suggest that our genes control up to 25% of the lifespan. The aging immune system undergoes age-associated changes at multiple levels, resulting in a gradual loss of its ability to protect the organism against infections, low vaccine responses, and an increased probability of developing autoimmune diseases and malignancies. The highly polymorphic HLA complex is one of the major gene candidates associated with aging due to its crucial role in developing adaptive immunity and protecting the organism. Most of the data available have so far demonstrated a positive association with healthy aging for HLA alleles/haplotypes as protective against malignancies, autoimmune diseases, and conferring better control and response to infections.
One of aging’s main manifestations is the chronic, low-grade inflammatory state observed in older people, caused by an imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. In general, it is has been agreed that longevity is related to anti-inflammatory genotype profiles. With advanced age, changes also occur in the B cell repertoire, which significantly affects the humoral immunity and leads to inadequate responses to infections and vaccines in the elderly. New genetic biomarkers associated with aging are being explored and discovered, contributing to a better understanding of the molecular processes underlying the immune dysfunction related to aging and developing strategies for rejuvenating the immune system based on immune-risk phenotypes.
Predictors for Long-Term Prognosis after Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Doneva-Basheva Krastina I. , Petrov Damyan P. , Vlaykova Tatyana I. , Tisheva Snezhana T. 
Published: July 2021

Summary
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of invalidity and death in developed countries. Among them, the main cause of death is coronary artery disease. In this retrospective study, 172 patients with acute coronary syndrome (STEMI, NSTEMI, UA) are included. They had been hospitalized on an emergency basis in the Cardiology Department, Invasive Sector of Prof. Dr. St. Kirkovich Hospital in Stara Zagora, and the Cardiology Hospital -Yambol between January 2009 and February 2010. We found a significant difference in the age at acute coronary syndrome (ACS) occurrence by sex: earlier manifestation was observed in men (p=0.018). The univariant regression analysis showed that elderly age (p=0.005, OR 1.024), glomerular filtration <90 ml/h (p=0.006, OR 0.964), GRACE-score > 140 pt (p<0.001, OR 1.045), HF (Killip class ≥ II) (p=0.002, OR 15.6) and EF<40% (p=0.003, OR 1) were factors for adverse prognosis in the first, fifth and ninth year. Only GRACE-score was an independent predictor of death obtained by multivariate regression analysis in the study (p=0.002, OR 1.052). The factors influencing long-term survival adversely after ACS are age, smoking, chronic kidney disease, previously experienced myocardial infarction, diabetes mellitus, three-vessel coronary disease, and decreased systolic function of the left ventricle, and GRACE > 140 p.
Granulocytic Expression of CD11b/CD18 and Thrombotic Risk in Patients with Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Authors: Todorieva-Todorova Doroteya K. , Kovacheva Katya S. , Tzvetkov Nikolay T. , Blazheva Svetla O. , Lukanov Tzvetan H. 
Published: July 2021

Summary
Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are clonal hematological conditions characterized by excessive production of one or more cell lines in the bone marrow. The blood cells produced are often hyperactive in their functions, which could lead to complications in the disorder‘s clinical course. We aimed to define the role of granulocytic CD11b/CD18 expression for the thrombotic risk in MPN patients. We investigated 110 patients with a histologically confirmed diagnosis of a myeloproliferative disease and a control group of 46 healthy volunteers. In the patient group, we found an average expression 4.59 times higher than in the control group. The highest expression was found in a subgroup of patients with polycythemia vera – 71.55% of the patients’ neutrophils. In each subgroup with essential thrombocythemia, myelofibrosis, and chronic myeloid leukemia, the patients with a history of thrombotic complication had a higher expression than the patients without such complications.
Vaginal Bacterial Profile in Pregnant Women
Authors: Petrov Anton G. , Karcheva Milena D , Marinova-Balgaranova Teodora V. , Petrova Rositsa V. , Vasileva Verena K. 
Published: July 2021

SummaryThis study aimed to determine the bacterial profile of vaginal samples from pregnant women and the prevalence of identified microorganisms. Materials and methods: A prospective epidemiological study was conducted on 150 pregnant women admitted to the Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Dr. G. Stranski University Hospital in Pleven. Vaginal secretion samples were collected from all the 150 women. Direct microscopy of native smears prepared by the wet mount method to detect Trichomonas vaginalis and direct microscopy of Gram-stained smears was performed. Aerobic culture studies were conducted to identify pathogenic bacteria and Sabouraud glucose agar (SGA) to detect the presence of Candida spp. Samples were also collected from 107 of the women for PCR tests for mycoplasma detection. Results: The highest relative share in the study was women aged 21 to 35 years 104 (69.33%). Of all the hospitalized and examined pregnant women, 87 (57.99%) had medical problems during the current pregnancy and postpartum complications, and 63 women (42%) gave birth without accompanying complications. In 86 (57.32%) of the women, bacteria were detected by direct microscopy of Gram-stained smears. Of these, 24 (16%) had gram-negative rods, 28 (18.66%) had gram-positive cocci. In 34 (22.66%), we found gram-negative and gram-variable pleomorphic bacteria. The aerobic culture study revealed microbiological growth in 44 (29.33%) of the women investigated. Conclusions: Studies on the profile of the vaginal microbiota in pregnant women and the spread of pathogenic microorganisms are essential for make prognoses for pregnancy outcome, evaluating the risk of developing a maternal-fetal infection, and discussing options for timely treatment.
A Rare Clinical Case of Lipoma in the Soft Tissues of the Sublingual Space: A Case Report
Authors: Kanazirska Petya G. , Hristamyan-Cilev Mery A. , Kanazirski Nikolay D. 
Published: July 2021

Summary
This report presents clinical case with a histopathologically established lipoma of the sublingual space. Lipomas are benign mesenchymal neoplasms produced by adipocytes. Our search in the literature demonstrated that the development of lipomas in the sublingual space is extremely rare. In the oral cavity, it is seen in less than 5% of patients. In this paper, we describe clinical features, imaging diagnostic and histopathological features. Lipomas are characterized by slow growth and could be asymptomic, therefore diagnosis could be delayed.
This report describes and discusses the case of a 64 years-old-man with a formation, located below the left tongue, for a period of 4 years. The patient had repeatedly consulted with Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT) specialists and dentists who recommended surgical treatment. During the last month of the monitoring, the formation had grown significantly and the chewing and speech function had gradually worsened.
Perception of the National Entrepreneurship Conditions – Differences Across Time and Expert Specialization
Authors: Pfeifer Sanja , Singer Slavica , Šarlija Nataša , Peterka Sunčica Oberman 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Creating an external context that will have nourishing effect on the entrepreneurial activities seems to be timely, path and location dependent process. The systemic explorations of the national entrepreneurial context (environment) are still relatively underrepresented. The paper explores strengths and weaknesses of the national entrepreneurship conditions in Croatia and how stable these conditions are in the longer time frame. The aim of the study is to provide more detailed insight on the differences in perceptions among experts engaged in Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) and along the time. Findings indicate deterioration of the national entrepreneurial conditions in Croatia. Experts’ perceptions of national entrepreneurial conditions diverge between experts who have and those who do not have prior entrepreneurial experiences. The time also matters – perceptual difference in evaluating the quality of national entrepreneurship conditions is observed across 2015–2018.
Banking Market Concentration and Bank Efficiency. Evidence from Southern, Eastern and Central Europe
Authors: Kozak Sylwester , Wierzbowska Agata 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The importance of the question about the relationship between concentration and efficiency lies in the fact that banks’ efficiency affects ability to extend loans and ensure financial stability of the banking sector. The study examines this relationship on the example of 150 banks operating between 2005 and 2019 in 11 EU and 8 non-EU countries from the SECE region. The value of profit efficiency was assessed with the stochastic frontier approach, and next regressed with the banking market concentration and bank specific and macroeconomic explanatory variables. The results for the entire sample as well as for domestic and foreign-owned banks indicate that concentration positively and nonlinearly impacts bank efficiency, both in EU and non-EU countries. Moreover, the size of a bank and income diversification help to improve efficiency of banks in the SECE region. The study shows that banks in SECE countries seem to follow the efficient structure hypothesis.