bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Its Serum Levels in Schizophrenic Patients
Authors: Koeva Yvetta A. , Sivkov Stefan T. , Akabaliev Valentin H. , Ivanova Roumiana Y. , Deneva Tania I. , Grozlekova Lilia S. , Georgieva Vessela 
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Neurotrophins have an important role in regulating the development and maintenance of the peripheral and central nervous systems’ function. Thus, the neurotrophin hypothesis of schizophrenia has postulated that the changes in the brain of schizophrenic patients are the result of disturbances of developing processes involving these molecules. AIM: We analyse in the present study the changes in the serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in schizophrenic patients as possible epiphenomena of underlying alterations of the neurotrophic factor in central nervous system, reflecting its role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-one schizophrenic patients satisfying the DSM-IV criteria for diagnosis of schizophrenia were enrolled in the study. The control group consisted of 28 age-matched mentally healthy subjects. Serum BDNF levels were determined in patients and normal controls using ELISA (Chemicon International, USA & Canada). The data were analyzed statistically with Student’s t- test in SPSS 9.0. RESULTS: The serum BDNF levels were lower in the schizophrenic patients than in the control subjects, reaching statistically significant difference (t = 2.72, p = 0.009). Female patients had lower serum BDNF levels than the male patients but the difference fell short of statistical significance (t = 0.1, p = 0.9). CONCLUSIONS: The BDNF reduction in serum indicates a potential deficit in neurotrophic factor release in patients with schizophrenia and support the concept that BDNF might be associated with schizophrenia
Influence of Serum Levels of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone and Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies, Age and Gender on Depression as Measured by the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale
Authors: Shinkov Alexander D. , Borisova Anna-Maria I. , Kovacheva Russanka D. , Vlahov Yordan D. , Dakovska Lilia N. , Atanassova Iliana D. , Petkova Polina L. , Aslanova Nina L. , Vukov Mircho I. 
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT
The AIM of the present study was to explore the level of depression in the respondents using the Zung self-rating depression scale (SDS) and find a correlation with the levels of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and the anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO), the age and gender of the participants. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 2401 subjects aged 20-84 yrs were included, 1344 of them female aged 48.7 ± 14.4 yrs and 1057 male, aged 46.5 ± 14.5 yrs (p < 0.001). All participants completed the Zung SDS questionnaire and a depressive score was calculated and interpreted as follows: less than 49 points - no depression, between 50 and 59 points - mild depression, between 60 and 69 points - moderate depression and more than 69 points - severe depression. Body height and weight were measured and serum TSH and Anti-TPO were determined. RESULTS: SDS was higher in the females (47.6 ± 9.7 vs. 41.7 ± 8.6, p < 0.001) and correlated with the subjects’ age (Spearman’s ρfemale = 0.447, p < 0.001, ρmale = 0.402, p < 0.001). Depression was more prevalent in the females (all p < 0.001) with hypothyroidism than in the euthyroid subjects (odds ratio 1.8, 95% CI 1.15-2.80, p < 0.011). The odds ratio for depression was 3.47 (2.64-4.57) for the female gender and the risk of depression increased by 6% (5 - 7) with each added year of age. The anti-TPO, BMI and waist circumference did not influence the regression models. CONCLUSION: The depressive score was higher in the females and increased with age. Hypothyroidism determined a higher risk of depression in the females
A comparison of lower montane natural forest (Abies, Fagus, Picea) in Oszast Reserve and spruce monocultures in the Żywiecki Beskid and Śląski Beskid
Authors: Jaworski Andrzej , Pach Maciej 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
The aim of this research was to find out what changes occurred between 1999-2009 in Oszast reserve in the volume, species composition and diameter at breast height (dbh) distribution of the forest stand, and the number and height of regeneration. The objective was to determine what would be condition of these managed lower montane multispecies forest stands (Swiss irregular shelterwood method or selection cuttings) and what role spruce would play in them if they have not been replaced by spruce monocultures. The research was conducted on three permanent circular sample plots (s.p.), each had size of 1/3 ha. Over 10 years, standing volume of the forest stand increased on s.p. 1 (from around 562 m3/ha to 649 m3/ha) and s.p. 3. (from 653 m3/ha to 660 m3/ha), while decreased on s.p. 2. (from 421 m3/ha to 378 m3/ha). The species composition, defined on the basis of volume share (averaged for the three s.p. jointly), did not undergo consistent changes. However, the relative dominance of beech over spruce was determined based on tree numbers. The average spruce mortality (averaged from three s.p.) did not exceed 10% and was slightly higher than that of beech (6%), and lower than fir mortality (15%). Nevertheless, spruce did not show any symptoms of dieback. The reasons behind its mortality were fallen trees and windbreaks. In regeneration, on the whole, beech or sycamore predominated, and the proportion of spruce and fir was small. In the future spruce and fir may even decrease further by competitive ability of dynamically regenerating beech. Abandonment of forest management to promote greater diversity of species, may favour the formation of beech monocultures, or forest stands dominated by beech, everywhere that beech is already present or will be introduced. The maintenance of stable, multispecies forest stands, with co-dominant fir, beech and spruce of native origin, requires natural or artificial regeneration of spruce and fir, manipulated to restore fir up to about 30%, and reduce spruce down to about 40%. This would be possible through the use of the Swiss irregular shelterwood method and selection system, and by continuous tending of regeneration
Natural regeneration in the ‘Czmoń’ nature reserve (Wielkopolska Region)
Authors: Horodecki Paweł , Wiczyńska Katarzyna , Jagodziński Andrzej M. 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
The ‘Czmoń’ nature reserve (23.65 ha) was established in 1998 to protect one of the best-retained areas of natural oak-hornbeam forest (Galio-Carpinetum) in the center of the Wielkopolska Region. Apart from oak-hornbeam forest, the ash-elm riparian forest (Querco-Ulmetum) and alder riparian forest (Fraxino-Alnetum) are found in the reserve. These plant communities, both natural and degenerated as a consequence of previous forest management, have created the convenient conditions for assessment the phytocoenoses’ regeneration potential. The aim of this study was to assess the age and species structure of woody species natural regeneration of the whole area of the nature reserve. To achieve that target, during August and September 2012, 142 sample plots were established with the total area 3550 m2 on which tree and shrub composition and densities were calculated. Woody species regeneration created various diverse communities among individual sub-units, however oak-hornbeam forest species were predominant in the whole regeneration layer. The character of a ‘natural’ forest was retained on a part of the stands. Moreover, regeneration in degenerated parts of the ‘Czmoń’ nature reserve stands is changing according to potential vegetation. Whereas, the establishment of gaps in the Scots pine stands using artificial regeneration was not worthwhile. The natural regeneration structure under the canopy layer of Scots pine stands unambiguously supports the claim that phytocoenoses can regenerate on their own. In spite of the oak regeneration being infrequent, all stands within the ‘Czmoń’ nature reserve retain substantial rejuvenation potential
Vegetation diversity of the Scots pine stands in different forest sites in the Turawa Forest District
Authors: Stefańska-Krzaczek Ewa , Pech Paweł 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
The utility of phytocenotic indices in the diagnosis and classification of forest sites might be limited because of vegetation degeneration in managed forests. However, even in secondary communities it may be possible to determine indicator species, although these may differ from typical and well known plant indicators. The aim of this work was to assess the vegetation diversity of Scots pine stands in representative forest site types along a moisture and fertility gradient. In total 120 sample plots from Turawa forests were included in the study. These plots represented young (21-40 years) and old (> 80 years) Scots-pine-dominated stands. The forest sites were categorised according to Polish site classification. Four site categories were studied: Bśw (very nutrient-poor and mesic sites), BMśw (nutrient-poor and mesic sites), BMw (nutrient-poor and moist sites), LMw (quite nutrient-rich and moist sites). The species composition of the forest patches studied hardly differed among forest site types. Almost all of the vegetation in site Bśw was different from both moist site types (BMw and LMw). Sites Bśw and LMw had the exclusive species determined as site indicators. Moreover, young stands had their own site type indicator species which differed from old stands. Numerical classification showed that only two plant communities were widespread: Leucobryo- Pinetum in Bśw and BMśw, and the community of Pinus sylvestris and Molinia caerulea in BMśw, BMw, LMw. In secondary communities typical indicator species may not be useful, but it is possible to determinate species that are locally unique to forest site type. Despite the convergence in the composition of the plant community resulting from tree stand unification, plant communities have the capacity for a more diverse composition. Tree stand conversion can increase phytocenotic diversity
Influence of epilobium angustifolium extract on 5α-reductase type 2 and mapk3 kinase gene expression in rats prostates
Authors: Kujawski Radosław , Bartkowiak-Wieczorek Joanna , Karasiewicz Monika , Bogacz Anna , Mikołajczak Przemysław Ł. , Czerny Bogusław , Mrozikiewicz Przemysław M. 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of standardized Epilobium angustifolium L. extract [100 mg/kg/day, p.o.] on the expression level of 5α-reductase type 2 (Srd5ar2) mRNA and Mapk3 mRNA a representative of non-genomic xenobiotics signaling pathway. It was shown that plant extract from the E. angustifolium showed a slight tendency to reduce prostate weight in hormonally induced animals (p>0.05) and in testosterone induced animals receiving both, extract and finasteride (p<0.05). Finasteride in rats induced by testosterone caused a smaller decrease in the level of mRNA 5α-steroid reductase 2 (SRd5ar2), than in rats treated with the hormone and studied plant extracts. In general, an increase in the amount of MAPK3 mRNAs in testosterone-induced groups of rats receiving tested plant extract with or without finasteride was observed, while the expression of type 2 5α-steroid reductase decreased (p<0.05). Further experimental studies should be performed in order to understand the molecular basis of interactions, the efficacy and safety of tested plant extracts.
Phytochemical, pharmacological and clinical studies of petasites hybridus (l.) P. Gaertn., B. Mey. & Scherb. A review /
Authors: Ożarowski Marcin , Przystanowicz Jędrzej , Adamczak Artur 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
Preparations from rhizomes of Petasites hybridus (L.) Gaertn., B. Mey. & Scherb. (common butterbur) have a long history of use in folk medicine in treatment of several diseases as anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic drugs. Extracts from this species are of interest to researchers in the field of phytopharmacology due to their biologically active compounds, particularly two eremophilane sesquiterpenes (petasin and isopetasin), which are contained not only in rhizomes and roots, but also in leaves. Moreover, P. hybridusa contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which showed hepatotoxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic properties. Hence, special extracts devoid of alkaloids obtained by sub- and super-critic carbon dioxide extraction were used in the preclinical, clinical studies and phytotherapy. Our review aims to provide a literature survey of pharmacological as well as clinical trials of P. hybridus, carried out in 2000-2013. Also several studies of other species used in non-European countries have been included. Besides, the botanical description of Petasites genus and phytochemical characteristic of P. hybridus and toxicological studies of pyrrolizidine alkaloids as well as chemical profile of patented commercial extracts from rhizomes, roots and leaves of this species used in European phytotherapy have been performed. In this review, attention has also been paid to the promising and potential application of special extracts of P. hybridus not only in the prevention of migraine, treatment of allergic rhinitis symptoms, asthma and hypertension, but also in prevention and slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases developing with the inflammatory process in the CNS as a new therapeutic strategy. In fact, there is already an evidence of promising properties of P. hybridus extracts and sesquiterpens - decrease in the prostaglandins and leukotrienes release, inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2 activity, as well as antagonism of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels. In order to explain the new mechanisms of action of P. hybridus extracts in the CNS and their future application in phytotherapy of diseases with neuroinflammatory process, further studies should be performed.
The effect of herbal materials on the p-glycoprotein activity and function
Authors: Bogacz Anna , Deka-Pawlik Donata , Bartkowiak-Wieczorek Joanna , Karasiewicz Monika , Kujawski Radosław , Kowalska Aleksandra , Chałas Aleksandra , Czerny Bogusław , Grześkowiak Edmund , Mrozikiewicz Przemysław M. 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
P-glycoprotein (P-gp) encoded by the MDR1 (multidrug resistance 1) gene is ATP-dependent transporting protein which is localizated in the cell membrane. P-gp is expressed mainly in organs with the secretory functions and its physiological role concerns tissue protection against xenobiotics. P-glycoprotein is involved in the permeability barriers of the blood-brain, blood-placenta directly protecting these organs. It participates in the transport of many drugs and other xenobiotics affecting their absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion. The high P-gp activity in the cell membranes of cancer tissue is a major cause of lack of effectiveness of chemotherapy. Hence, the methods which could increase the sensibility of these pathological cells to cytostatics are still being searched. In the experimental studies it was shown that natural plant substances may have an effect on the expression level and activity of P-glycoprotein. Hypericum perforatum, Ginkgo biloba and Camellia sinensis increase P-gp activity while curcumin from Curcuma longa, piperine and silymarin inhibit this protein. Taking into account a wide substrate spectrum of P-gp, application of our knowledge on interactions of herbals and synthetic drugs should be considered in order to improve drug impact on different tissues.
Biomechanical Evaluation of the Phases of the Triple Jump Take-Off in a Top Female Athlete
Authors: Eissa Abeer 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
The triple jump is one of two track and field events in which the athlete aims to maximize the horizontal distance jumped. This jump is comprised of 3 take-off phases (hop, step, and jump), each playing an important role, as they require the jumper to tolerate extremely high forces of impact and to maintain a high level of horizontal velocity. The purpose of the study was to investigate the biomechanical characteristics of the 3 take-off phases in the triple jump in a top female athlete. The 3 take-off phases of the top national female triple jumper were videotaped and analyzed using 2D motion analysis. Three cameras (DSR-SR 68) were placed on the lateral sides of the 3 take-off points, to record the motions of the 3 take-off phases. Results indicated that maximum loss of the horizontal velocity was in the hop phase (1.13 m/s), while the maximum braking time was in the jump phase (0.05 sec). The maximum pushing time was in the jump phase (0.10 s), while the pushing time was equal in the hop and step phases (0.05 s). In conclusion, the success of the triple jump is the result of the physical and technical qualities of the jumper. The excessive loss in horizontal velocity during the 3 take-off phases is the main factor limiting the performance of the top female athlete.
Effect of Three Technical Arms Swings on The Elevation of the Center of Mass During a Standing Back Somersault
Authors: Mkaouer Bessem , Jemni Monèm , Amara Samiha , Chaabène Helmi , Padulo Johnny , Tabka Zouhair 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
Arms swing during standing back somersaults relates to three different “gymnastics schools”, each is considered “optimal” by its adepts. In the three cases, technical performance, elevation and safety differ. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the mechanical variables of three different arms swing techniques in the performance of a standing back tucked somersault. Five high-level male gymnasts (age: 23.17±1.61 yrs; body height: 1.65±0.05 m; body mass: 56.80±7.66 kg) randomly performed standing somersaults under three conditions, each following a different arms’ swing technical angle (270°, 180° and 90°). A force plate synchronized with a three dimensional movement analysis system was used to collect kinetic and kinematic data. Significant differences were observed between somersaults’ performance. The back somersault performed with 270° arms swing showed the best vertical displacement (up to 13.73%), while the back somersaults performed with 180° arms swing showed a decrease in power (up to 22.20%). The back somersault with 90° arms swing showed the highest force (up to 19.46%). Considering that the higher elevation of the centre of mass during the flight phase would allow best performance and lower the risk of falls, this study demonstrated that optimal arms’ swing technique prior to back tucked somersault was 270°.
Profile, Correlation and Structure of Speed in Youth Elite Soccer Players
Authors: Tomáš Malý , František Zahálka , Lucia Malá , Jaroslav Teplan 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
Speed, power and agility are important components of fitness and determine the level of success and performance in soccer. The aim of this study was to identify speed variables and to determine their mutual correlation and structure in youth elite soccer players. The research group consisted of players from the Czech U16 national team (n = 22, age = 15.6 ± 0.4 years). Speed variables were assessed using the following tests: a) linear speed: 5 m sprint (S5), 10 m sprint (S10) and 20 m flying sprint (F20); b) the agility: agility test 505 with turning on the dominant (A505D) and nondominant legs (A505N) and the K-test (K) and c) ball velocity after an instep kick with the dominant (IKD) and nondominant (IKN) legs. Significant dependence was found for S5 compared with S10, F20 vs. A505N, K vs. A505N (p < 0.01) and S10 vs. F20 (p < 0.05). The factor analysis revealed three components of the latent variable - speed. The first component consisted of linear sprint (S10, S20) and also partially consisted of maximum speed (F20). The second component was primarily composed of agility (A505D, A505N, K) and also included maximum speed (F20). The third independent component represented ball velocity after an instep kick (IKD, IKN). The speed variables in youth elite players exhibited significant heterogeneity from the perspective of performance, as determined by the monitored tests. The structure of the speed predisposition indicated that there were three components of speed. The results of our studies support the notion that each component of speed must be considered independently when designing training programmes.
Can Achievement Goals be Primed in Competitive Tasks?
Authors: Greenlees Iain , Figgins Sean , Kearney Philip 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
This study examined whether achievement goal priming effects would be observed within an overtly competitive setting. Male soccer players (N = 66) volunteered to participate in a soccer penalty-kick taking competition during which they took 20 penalty-kicks on 2 occasions. Following a pretest, participants were allocated to 1 of 5 priming conditions. Immediately prior to the posttest, participants in the priming conditions were asked to complete what was presented as an ostensibly unrelated task that took the form of either a computer task (subliminal priming) or wordsearch task (supraliminal priming). Results revealed that priming had no significant influence on performance.
Effects of farmyard manure and nitrogen fertilizers on mobility of phosphorus and sulphur in wheat and activity of selected hydrolases in soil
Authors: Lemanowicz Joanna , Siwik-Ziomek Anetta , Koper Jan 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
The paper demonstrates the results of research on the mobility of phosphorus and sulphur in winter wheat fertilized with several rates (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 t ha-1) of farmyard manure and nitrogen (0, 40, 80, 120 kg N ha-1). The content of these nutrients was related to the activity of acid phosphatase and arylsulphatase in a Haplic Luvisol. The highest content of available phosphorus (91.58 mg P kg-1) was reported in the soil amended with farmyard manure at the rate of 60 t ha-1. The content of sulphates (VI) in the Haplic Luvisol was high and, on average, equal to 25.22 mg kg-1. The activity of acid phosphatase in the soil increased with increasing mineral nitrogen rates. The highest content of sulphates (VI) and the lowest activity of arylsulphatase were identified at the nitrogen rate of 40 kg N ha-1. The mobility of phosphorus in winter wheat was the highest when farmyard manure at the rate of 60 t ha-1 and mineral nitrogen at the rate of 120 kg N ha-1 were incorporated into the soil. The greatest translocation of sulphur was reported at the high farmyard manure rates (40, 60 and 80 t ha-1) and the nitrogen rate of 80 kg N ha-1.