bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Curcumin-loaded sterically stabilized nanodispersion based on non-ionic colloidal system induced by ultrasound and solvent diffusion-evaporation
Authors: Tan Khang Wei , Tang Siah Ying , Thomas Renjan , Vasanthakumari Neela , Manickam Sivakumar 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Curcumin has been found to possess significant pharmaceutical activities. However, owing to its low bioavailability, there is a limitation of employing it towards clinical application. In an attempt to surmount this implication, often the choice is designing novel drug delivery systems. Herein, sterically stabilized nanoscale dispersion loaded with curcumin (nanodispersion) based on non-ionic colloidal system has been proposed. In this study, the process conditions were effectively optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) with Box–Behnken design (BBD). The suggested optimum formulation proved to be an excellent fit to the actual experimental output. STEM images illustrate that the optimal curcumin-loaded nanodispersion has spherical morphology with narrow particle size distribution. Particle size distribution study confirms that the solution pH does not affect the nanodispersion, and physical stability study shows that the colloidal system is stable over 90 days of storage at ambient conditions. More importantly, controlled release profile was achieved over 72 h and the in vitro drug release data fit well to Higuchi model (R
2=0.9654).
Comfort During Digital Rectal Examination - Patient Preference*
Authors: Dziki Łukasz , Sobolewska Justyna , Szewczyk Martyna , Włodarczyk Jakub , Sobolewska Aleksandra , Włodarczyk Marcin 
Published: January 2016

AbstractThe sex and age of the physician performing the digital rectal examination (DRE) procedure is one of the parameters influencing patients’ comfort. It is postulated that the stress related to DRE during admission to the surgical ward may affect the compliance.was to characterize patients’ preferences according to their sex, age, socioeconomic status and according to DRE-related variables.Patients admitted to the Department of General and Colorectal Surgery at Medical University in Łódź between October 2014 and June 2015 were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their sex, age, ethnic background, socioeconomic status and preference for a physician performing the DRE during admission to the surgical ward.The study enrolled 225 patients, 52% (n=117) women and 48% (n=108) men. Most patients 73.3% (n=244) expressed no preference for sex of the physician performing the DRE during admission, while 22.7% (n=51) preferred a same-sex physician. Analysis showed that the age, female sex, lower education status, small amount of comorbidities and number of hospitalizations, and no previous colonoscopy experience were all associated with preference for a same-sex physician.In our study most patients expressed no preference for sex of the physician performing the DRE during admission to the surgical ward. However, over one-tenth of patients reported such preferences. Most of these patients preferred a same-sex physician. It is important to offer these patients the choice of physician performing the DRE. Addressing patients’ preferences may improve the atmosphere in the clinical environment, reduce stress, and facilitate better treatment.
Rare Case Report Of Mesenteric Fibromatosis
Authors: Vidyasagar Radhika , Sudarshan  , Sreedhar  , Subramanya  , Bhat Vidya 
Published: January 2016

AbstractMesenteric fibromatosis is a part of the clinical-pathologic spectrum of deep fibromatoses. We report this rare case of primary mesenteric tumor that was diagnosed to be a mesenteric fibromatosis on histopathological examination.In majority of patients it may remain asymptomatic and the management of these tumors depends on histopathological examination. Postoperatively, patient was well and subsequent follow up showed normal recovery.
Molecular detection of bovine leukemia virus in peripheral blood of Iranian cattle, camel and sheep
Authors: Nekoei S. , Hafshejani T. Taktaz , Doosti A. , Khamesipour F. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is a deltaretrovirus which infects and induces proliferation of B-lymphocytes in the peripheral blood circulation and in lymphoid organs primarily of cattle, leading to leukemia/lymphoma. This study was carried out to investigate the presence of BLV in cattle, sheep and camels from the Chaharmahal va Bakhtiary and Isfahan provinces in Iran. A total of 874 blood samples collected from cattle, sheep and camels were used in this study to detect BLV using a nested-PCR. The results from this study indicated that 17.2% (n=874) of all blood samples collected were positive for BLV. The percentages of blood samples positive for BLV from cattle, sheep and camels were 22.1 (n=657), 5.3 (n=95) and 0 (n=122) respectively. The results from this study showed that BLV infected cattle and sheep. Camels seemed to be resistant to BLV infection. This study contributes to the nationwide effort to obtain baseline information on the prevalence of BLV, which will assist in planning the control strategy for the disease in Iran.
Selection and electrophoretic characterization of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica biocide variants resistant to antibiotics
Authors: Futoma-Kołoch B. , Książczyk M. , Korzekwa K. , Migdał I. , Pawlak A. , Jankowska M. , Kędziora A. , Dorotkiewicz-Jach A. , Bugla-Płoskońska G. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The proposed research outlines a serious common concern of Salmonella resistance to antimicrobials following prolonged exposure to the disinfectants (biocides). These phenotypes of bacteria could potentially result in hard to treat infections. Typical for avian sources, biocide sensitive S. enterica subsp. enterica serovars: Typhimurium, Enteritidis, Virchow and Zanzibar and their isogenic biocide-tolerant variants were studied in order to investigate bacteriostatic effect of two commercially available biocide formulations: potassium peroxymonosulfate (P) and dodecylamine based structure (triamine, D). We found that cultivating of the bacteria in the medium supplemented with a blend containing P did not influence their antibiotic susceptibility pattern. In contrast, tolerance of bacteria to D compound resulted in resistance to co-trimoxazole, cefotaxime and ciprofloxacin of which two cefotaxime and ciprofloxacin are used commonly for the treatment of invasive Salmonella infections in humans. The dependency between OMP patterns and the level of Salmonella survival in media containing the biocides was observed merely in serovar Typhimurium. In conclusion, these results suggest that Salmonella strains challenged by prolonged treatment with the disinfectants become resistant to antibiotics, however it depends on Salmonella serovar and the chemical used. This paper also highlights the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) as a technique that offers great benefits to microbiological detecting of Salmonella species in the samples.
Effects of storage in different semen extenders on the pre-freezing and post-thawing quality of boar spermatozoa
Authors: Dziekońska A. , Zasiadczyk Ł. , Lecewicz M. , Strzeżek R. , Koziorowska-Gilun M. , Fraser L. , Mogielnicka-Brzozowska M. , Kordan W. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractThe aim of this study was to investigate the effects of storage of semen in different commercial extenders on the pre-freezing and post-thawing quality of boar spermatozoa. Semen was diluted in BTS, Androhep (AH) and Gedil (GD), stored for 24 h at 17°C, and then frozen in accordance with the cryopreservation protocol. Analyses of the quality of spermatozoa included: motility, normal apical ridge (NAR) acrosome, plasma membrane integrity (PMI), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), measurements of ATP content and activity of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Prior to the freezing process, no significant effect of the extender on the sperm quality parameters was noted. After thawing the spermatozoa it was demonstrated that the type of extender used influenced PMI, MMP, ATP content and activity of GPx. In the AH extender the percentage of spermatozoa with PMI and ATP content in spermatozoa was significantly higher (P<0.05) as compared to the BTS or GD extenders. In addition, semen stored in the AH was characterised by a statistically higher (P<0.05) percentage of spermatozoa with MMP and increased activity of GPx as compared with the BTS. The results obtained indicate that for the cryopreservation process, boar spermatozoa stored for 24 hours in liquid state can be used. However, the type of extender used prior to freezing may have a significant effect on the post-thawing quality of the spermatozoa. The AH extender better secured the quality of thawed boar spermatozoa as compared with the BTS or GD.
Immunohistochemical evaluation of hippocampal CA1 region astrocytes in 10-day-old rats after monosodium glutamate treatment
Authors: Krawczyk A. , Jaworska-Adamu J. , Rycerz K. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractHigh concentration of glutamate (Glu) is excitotoxic for nervous system structures. This may lead to glial reactivity ie. increased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and S100β protein, and also to hypertrophy and proliferation of cells which are determined by the presence of Ki-67 antigen. The aim of the study was to analyse the immunoreactivity of the GFAP, S100β and Ki-67 proteins in astrocytes of hippocampal CA1 region in young rats after administration of monosodium glutamate (MSG) at two doses: 2 g/kg b.w. (I group) and 4 g/kg b.w. (II group). In rats from I and II group morphologically altered astrocytes with the GFAP expression were observed in the SLM of the hippocampal CA1 region. The cells had eccentrically located nuclei and on the opposite site of the nuclei there were single or double, long and weakly branched processes. Moreover, in the SLM the increase of the number of GFAP and S100β immunopositive astrocytes and nuclei with Ki-67 expression, in contrary to control individuals, was observed. These results suggest the increased expression of the proteins in early reactions or hyperplasia which, together with cell hypertrophy, indicate late reactivity of astroglia in response to glutamate noxious effect.
Can liquorice extract and herbal solution prevent colonic mucosa damage caused by robenacoxib in dogs?
Authors: Szweda M. , Szarek J. , Lew M. , Szarek-Bęska A. , Gulda D. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in animals, especially in dogs, to manage pain due to inflammatory disease. This study investigated whether plant drugs can prevent mucosal injury induced by robenacoxib. We used fifteen healthy beagle dogs (7 male and 8 female) aged 4 months, weighing 4.2-5.1 kg at the beginning of the study. Endoscopy and biopsy of the colon were performed before and on the 21 day treatment with robenacoxib (1), robenacoxib, herbal solution with liquorice extract (2), placebo – an empty capsule (3). There were 5 animals in each group. The greatest microscopic damage in the colon was observed in animals which received robenacoxib. Plant drug administration reduced the severity of lesions in the colon when administered with robenacoxib (ARI = – 0.15). Conclusion: concurrent administration of liquorice extract and plant solution with robenacoxib was associated with significant decreased severity of the robenacoxib-induced colonic mucosal lesions.
Retrospective analysis of co-occurrence of congenital aortic stenosis and pulmonary artery stenosis in dogs
Authors: Kander M. , Pasławska U. , Staszczyk M. , Cepiel A. , Pasławski R. , Mazur G. , Noszczyk-Nowak A. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The study has focused on the retrospective analysis of cases of coexisting congenital aortic stenosis (AS) and pulmonary artery stenosis (PS) in dogs.
The research included 5463 dogs which were referred for cardiological examination (including clinical examination, ECG and echocardiography) between 2004 and 2014. Aortic stenosis and PS stenosis were detected in 31 dogs. This complex defect was the most commonly diagnosed in Boxers – 7 dogs, other breeds were represented by: 4 cross-breed dogs, 2 Bichon Maltais, 3 Miniature Pinschers, 2 Bernese Mountain Dogs, 2 French Bulldogs, and individuals of following breeds: Bichon Frise, Bull Terrier, Czech Wolfdog, German Shepherd, Hairless Chinese Crested Dog, Miniature Schnauzer, Pug, Rottweiler, Samoyed, West Highland White Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier. In all the dogs, the murmurs could be heard, graded from 2 to 5 (on a scale of 1-6). Besides, in 9 cases other congenital defects were diagnosed: patent ductus arteriosus, mitral valve dysplasia, pulmonary or aortic valve regurgitation, tricuspid valve dysplasia, ventricular or atrial septal defect. The majority of the dogs suffered from pulmonary valvular stenosis (1 dog had supravalvular pulmonary artery stenosis) and subvalvular aortic stenosis (2 dogs had valvular aortic stenosis).
Conclusions and clinical relevance – co-occurrence of AS and PS is the most common complex congenital heart defect. Boxer breed was predisposed to this complex defect. It was found that coexisting AS and PS is more common in male dogs and the degree of PS and AS was mostly similar.
Evaluation of selected serum biochemical and haematological parameters in gilts exposed per os to 100 ppb of zearalenone
Authors: Jakimiuk E. , Radwińska J. , Pomianowski A. , Woźny M. , Obremski K. , Gajęcka M. , Brzuzan P. , Gajęcki M. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Zearalenone (ZEN) widely contaminates animal feed of plant origin. The recommended safe concentrations of ZEN in feeds for various animal species are set mainly based on the mycotoxin’s hormonal properties (NOEL). Our growing knowledge about biologically active concentrations of ZEN, molecular mechanisms and cells/tissues targeted by ZEN indicates that the harmful effects exerted by this mycotoxin on animals may be far greater than previously believed. This experiment was performed on pre-pubertal gilts divided into a control group (n=9) and an experimental group (ZEN, n=9). The control group received placebo, whereas the experimental group was administered ZEN at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg feed (equivalent to 5 μg/kg BW/day) for 42 days. On days 14, 28 and 42 blood samples were collected from the animals to determine the concentrations of selected zearalenols, serum biochemical and haematological parameters. Conjugated ZEN was found in the blood serum of the experimental gilts. Changes in the analysed biochemical parameters included a transient increase in albumin and cholesterol levels. A statistically significant increase in the concentrations of neutrophilic and acidophilic granulocytes was observed in the white blood cell system. The results indicate that long-term per os exposure of pre-pubertal gilts to low doses of ZEN (below NOEL) has a modulatory effect on liver function and white blood cells.
NR/SBR composites reinforced with organically functionalized MWCNTs: simultaneous improvement of tensile strength and elongation and enhanced thermal stability
Authors: Li Minghua , Tu Weixiao , Chen Xinfeng , Wang Huihui , Chen Jinyang 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Butyl acrylate-α-methyl methacrylate-glycidyl methacrylate (BA-MMA-GMA) terpolymer was successfully grafted onto carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via a facile grafting functionalization approach, affording an organically functionalized multiwalled CNTs (O-MWCNTs), which show improved mechanical and thermal properties in natural rubber/styrene-butadiene rubber (NR/SBR) composites. Under optimized conditions, the result of elongation at break of NR/SBR composites combined with 1.5 parts per hundred rubber (phr) O-MWCNTs is 450% compared to 376% of pristine NR/SBR composites, which is proportional to tensile strength due to the mixed O-MWCNTs in the rubber matrix. Transmission electron microscopy study shows that O-MWCNTs (1.5 phr) can disperse uniformly in NR/SBR/O-MWCNT composites. A scanning electron microscopy study on the fractured surface morphology of the optimized composites reveals that a BA-MMA-GMA terpolymer can interact with the rubber matrix strongly. The decreased height of the maximum tanδ peak shows that O-MWCNTs can reduce the heat buildup and damping capability of NR/SBR/O-MWCNT composites. The largest enhancement observed in the thermal degradation curves of composites is, for the first time, about 70°C, which can be attributed to enhanced interfacial interaction between MWCNTs and the rubber matrix.
Predictive modeling of phenolic compound release from nanofibers of electrospun networks for application in periodontal disease
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Simzar , Esnaashari Sara , Sadeghpour Omid , Hamedi Shokouhsadat 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Buccal drug delivery faces hurdles due to a lack of therapeutic efficiency resulting from saliva wash out. To meet this challenge, impregnated nanofibers with pharmaceutical agents could shorten total release duration as a result of higher surface area. Moreover, the electrospinning technique successfully functions in the field of nanofiber fabrication. Hence, in this study, composite nonwoven mesh containing Ziziphus jujuba extract was prepared by electrospinning, and release profile was studied in artificial saliva. The polymers used included chitosan and polyethylene oxide (PEO), which provided the desirable hydrophilicity that is essential for mucoadhesivity. Furthermore, the phenolic compound extracted from a plant namely Z. jujuba was used due to its oral healing effect. Morphology and chemical state of the composite film were also investigated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, respectively. Kinetic release of chitosan-PEO/phenolic compound nanofibers demonstrates a profile of Fickian diffusion dependency that delivered total phenolic ingredients in <75 min. The swelling behavior of composite type confirms Fickian diffusion and anomalous transport as a result of hydrophilic property of produced network and erosion mechanism on release phenomena, respectively. Results showed that impregnated electrospun patches of nanofibers can be promising for developing oral local drug delivery.
Information and Communication Technologies in Electoral Processes: How do they help voters abroad?
Authors: Lorenzo-Rodriguez Javier 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The use of information and communication technology in electoral processes has become commonplace, being seen simply as another tool in the hands of policy-makers to improve the quality and effectiveness of public policy and representation. There have been diverse experiences in this area, and the instances in which ICT has been used in the mentioned processes differ. This article analyses and evaluates systematically, for the first time in literature, the incorporation of ICT when voting from abroad, paying attention to the practices of some of those countries that have implemented these technologies in one way or another, into their voting processes. Hence, by introducing the Electronic Voting From Abroad Index, this paper observes at which phase of the process the technology is being used and how this vary from country to country.
Entrepreneurial Universities and Regional Development: Policy Origins, Progress, and the Future, with a Focus on Poland
Authors: Anthony Amanda 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
University entrepreneurship is an idea that has gained a significant amount of support globally in the last 30 years and is seen as promoting reinvention, revitalisation, and simply remuneration for the universities themselves and their regions at large. But as universities begin to ramp up their technology transfer activities and start to commercialise their research, it is important to consider the regional context and the regional impacts that this can have. Technology transfer is important, but to truly transform economic “catch-up” regions to future leading regions, it cannot be the only goal of university entrepreneurship. As a result, larger perspective and more government, business, and university collaboration is needed. Using Poland as a focus area, this paper will summarise the concept and development of the entrepreneurial university and the policies needed for success, and show that the technology transfer activity of the university should be considered just one element of regional development strategies. It concludes with policy recommendations that may be useful for Poland and other regions.
Inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene in the South Pacific: how might it be impacting children?
Authors: Barrington Dani J. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
It is detrimental to anyone’s health to live with conditions of inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene (WaSH). Research suggests that the impact is greatest on children, and that poor WaSH conditions during the formative years can lead to decreased physical, mental and social well-being throughout one’s life. Little research has investigated how such poor WaSH conditions are negatively impacting children in the South Pacific region, and hence contributing to disease and social burden. To increase children’s opportunities to develop physically and intellectually in a healthy and sustained manner, it is important that practitioners take a holistic approach to improving WaSH by acknowledging it as a core component of environmental health.
Experimental Study Of Minimum Ignition Temperature Of Spent Coffee Grounds
Authors: Wachter Igor , Balog Karol , Kobetičová Hana , Ház Aleš 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The aim of this scientific paper is an analysis of the minimum ignition temperature of dust layer and the minimum ignition temperatures of dust clouds. It could be used to identify the threats in industrial production and civil engineering, on which a layer of combustible dust could occure. Research was performed on spent coffee grounds. Tests were performed according to EN 50281-2-1:2002 Methods for determining the minimum ignition temperatures of dust (Method A). Objective of method A is to determine the minimum temperature at which ignition or decomposition of dust occurs during thermal straining on a hot plate at a constant temperature. The highest minimum smouldering and carbonating temperature of spent coffee grounds for 5 mm high layer was determined at the interval from 280 °C to 310 °C during 600 seconds. Method B is used to determine the minimum ignition temperature of a dust cloud. Minimum ignition temperature of studied dust was determined to 470 °C (air pressure - 50 kPa, sample weight 0.3 g).
Explosion Risk Assessments For Facilities With Compressed Flammable Gases
Authors: Kulich Martin , Cáb Stanislav , Nos Filip , Bernatík Aleš 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
In the first part of the article we discuss the possibilities and analytical tools that can deal with the classification of space into zones with danger of explosion for devices with the presence of compressed flammable gases. Then we continue with specifications of possibilities for practical utilization linked to variables such as ventilation degree, hypothetical volume etc., including the examples. At the end we also give a brief overview of software for modelling gas leak, including examples of an outcome.