bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Healthy Alternatives of the Mediterranean Diet in Latvia
Authors: Ērglis Andrejs , Mintāle Iveta , Dinne Anete 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
The milestone of illness prophylaxis is a healthy lifestyle, which is composed of regular physical activity and a healthy diet. Following the Mediterranean diet for two years has been shown to have significant decrease in cardiovascular death by 9%, cancer by 6%, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's by 13%. This diet helps to control the perfect weight, improves lipid profile and diminishes the risk of diabetes. The Mediterranean diet consists of extra virgin olive oil, vegetables and fruit, wholegrain products, legumes, nuts and seeds, dairy products (with no other sources of fat other than milk fat), fish (at least twice a week), poultry, veal, pork in limited amount, and eggs - 0-4 per week. It is possible to adapt this kind of alimentation in the Nordic countries, but it is important to find products grown there with similar nutritional characteristics. Nowadays, fresh fruits and vegetables can be bought all year round, but it is essential to use seasonal products. In Latvia, at this point, attention should be brought to more efficient storage and conservation. We have a vast variety of legumes and cereals. The selection of dairy products should be bigger and of higher quality, because you rarely see local cheeses made in an artisanal manner at the marketplaces. There is good availability of saltwater fish in the cities, but in the countryside the only fish one can buy is salted and smoked, having exaggeratedly high amounts of salt. Consumption of meat and its products should be lowered to a maximum of three times per week. A special attention should be brought to game (such as deer), because it contains low levels of cholesterol and higher amounts of unsaturated fatty acids due to the alimentation of wild herbs. Unfortunately, there is a lack of good quality oil in Latvia, because no other product can be compared to the nutritious components of extra virgin olive oil and its effects on cardiovascular health. Consumption of high amounts of olive oil decreases the incidence of stroke by 41%. Education should be conducted widely to promote tradition and gastronomic heritage as a cultural aspect. Healthy lifestyle has to be visible to everyone at any time as a constant reminder of its importance.
Health Promoting Chemical Components of Orange Juice
Authors: Zvaigzne Gaļina , Kārkliņa Daina 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Citrus fruit or juice can be an excellent source of health-promoting substances at breakfast. A 150-200 ml glass of orange juice daily provides many nutrients required for good human health. As has been reported, vitamin C, thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, folate are present in oranges. Citrus juices also provide minerals - calcium, potassium, iron, zinc, magnesium, copper, and phosphorous, which are part of the vital enzyme system of the human body. In addition, several compounds - flavonoids and other health-promoting substances are present in citrus fruit. There are hundreds of useful products and substances with properties, which have origin in citrus products. There are also many patents for helpful products to be made from citrus substances. Treatment of major inflammation-related ailments target on phytochemicals involved in oxidative stress, metabolic syndrome (diabetes), cardiovascular diseases, bone health (osteoporosis), skin aging, cognitive function and brain diseases, aging, allergy and immune function and cancer. A clinical study published shows that orange juice and hesperidin increase nitric oxide production in human. Orange juices have been shown to provide several important health benefits, particularly for the cardiovascular system, bone and skin health, brain health, cognitive functions, aging, and also cancer. However, the number of clinical studies available remains limited and significant efforts are necessary to provide irrefutable proof of these benefits in human
Selenium Effect on Rye Malt Quality
Authors: Antoņenko Kristīne , Kreicbergs Viesturs , Dūma Māra , Ozola Sandra 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Rye (Secale cereale L.) is the most important cereal crop after wheat, rice and maize. A substantial part of the rye yield is used for bread making, especially in European countries. There have been numerous studies on grain enrichment with selenium (Se), as it is known that selenium is a fundamental trace element essential for human health and in the form of selenoproteins plays key structural and enzymic roles. The main aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different selenium concentrations on quality indices of rye malt - the content of malt extract, diastase activity, selenium and total phenol content in malt. Rye grain of 95% viability was soaked and germinated at temperature +6 ± 2 °C for three days +18 ± 2 °C, using sodium selenate Na2SeO4 solutions (Se concentration 3 mg l-1, 5 mg l-1, 10 mg l-1), and dried in an oven for 24 hours at temperature +70 - 112 °C. Germination of grain with deionised water served as a control. The obtained results showed that an increase of selenium concentration caused increase of malt extract concentration (from 74 to 80%), selenium concentration (from 0.0139 to 0.3251 mg kg-1) and total phenol concentration (from 3.13 to 3.63 mg GAE g-1 DW) in rye malt, while diastase activity decreased from 330 to 216.
Nutritional Benefits of Bifidobacterium Lactis in Dairy Products
Authors: Beitāne Ilze , Ciproviča Inga 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Bifidobacteria are one of the most important probiotics in dairy products. They have positive effects on human health. Nutritional benefits of bifidobacteria are genetically determined and can be promoted with addition of prebiotics. The aim of the present study was to examine the properties of Bifidobacterium lactis in dairy products. Pasteurised milk, freeze-dried starter culture Bb-12 (Bifidobacterium lactis, Chr. Hansen, Denmark), syrup of lactulose (Duphalac®, the Netherlands), and inulin (“Raftiline®HP”, ORAFI, Belgium) were used in the experiments. The optimal concentrations of lactulose (2%) and inulin (4%) were established in preliminary studies, based on quality indices and nutritional value of fermented dairy products (Beitane, 2008). Amino acids, carbohydrates, such as lactose, lactulose and inulin, as well as cholesterol were determined during the study using appropriate analytical procedures. The enzymatic activity of bifidobacteria determines nutritional value of the fermented dairy products. Addition of 2% lactulose resulted in significant increase of some amino acid concentrations, such as leucine, phenylalanine, lysine and arginine concentrations (P < 0.05), compared with those in other treatments. The presence of prebiotics caused a decrease of cholesterol level by 35% and lactose content by 31% in fermented milk samples. The enzymatic activity of bifidobacteria should be promoted with addition of lactulose and inulin to increase nutritional value of functional dairy products.
Characterisation of Physical and Biochemical Traits of Hulless Spring Barley Grain in the Latvian Breeding Programme
Authors: Bleidere Māra , Zute Sanita , Jākobsone Ida 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Incorporation of whole grain, such as hulless barley, as a part of a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of coronary heart diseases, diabetes and specific cancers, and provide other health benefits as well. The objectives of this study were to determine the physical and chemical characteristics of grains of hulless barley genotypes from the Latvian spring barley programme. Field experiments were carried out in 2010-2011 at the State Stende Cereal Breeding Institute. Grain samples of 29 hulless spring barley breeding lines were analysed for grain physical traits (1000 kernel weight, test weight), macronutrients (crude protein, starch, β -glucans), and micronutrients (total phenolic content, DPPH antiradical scavenging activity and α-tocopherol content). The variation of physical traits and macronutrients was mainly determined by genotype (ω2 = 32-62%) and year (η2 = 8-42%) and to a lesser extent by interaction of factors. The difference between hulless genotypes, as indicated the coefficient of variation, was rather high for all micronutrients (V% = 13.4-25.6). Significant (P < 0.05) positive correlation was detected between radical scavenging activity and total phenolic content (r = 0.519) and starch content (r = 0.530). The best hulless breeding lines ‘1185’ and ‘IC 360’ (variety ‘Kornelija’ submitted for DUS and VCU tests) were selected for future usage in clinical investigations.
Antioxidant Characteristics of Latvian Herbal Tea Types
Authors: Dimiņš Fredijs , Miķelsone Velga , Kaņeps Miķelis 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
The aim of the study was to characterise antioxidative properties and antiradical activity of the herbal tea collection in Latvia. High-pressure liquid chromatography and spectrophotometry methods were used to characterise antioxidant properties of herbal tea. Antiradical activity was determined spectrophotometrically. The antiradical scavenging activity was measured by the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) reaction. The herbal tea antiradical scavenging activity was estimated as the broken down quantity of DPPH on 100 grams of the herbal tea. Individual polyphenols in the herbal tea were identified and determined by liquid chromatography. Antiradical scavenging activity of the herbal tea was found to be 104 mol 100 g-1 tea. The following polyphenols were identified chromatographically in herbal tea: gallic, caffeic, chlorogenic, ferulic acids, rutin, catechin, vanillin, and epicatechin. Altogether 12 different varieties of herbal tea samples were analyzed. The results showed that different types of herbal tea substantially differed in composition. Polyphenol content of herbal teas was in the range of 1 mg in 100 g of tea up to 8 g per 100 g of tea. In the case of virus-related disease, infections and weakness of the organism, it is recommended to use tea with high content of rutin, as in Verbascum thapsiforme Schr., Alchemilla vulgaris L., Comarum palustre L. herbal tea.
Determination of Bioactive Compounds and Mineral Substances in Latvian Birch and Maple Saps
Authors: Kūka Māra , Čakste Ilze , Geršebeka Endija 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Birch and maple saps contain carbohydrates and organic acids, B complex vitamins and vitamin C, tannins, flavonoids, glycosides and mineral substances. The aim of the study was to quantitatively determine the concentrations of bioactive compounds and mineral substances in Latvian birch (Betula pendula Roth.) and maple (Acer platanoides L.) saps. Electrical conductivity was determined (629 and 967 S/cm in birch and maple saps, respectively) to characterise the total amount of mineral substances. In birch and maple saps the titratable acidity (0.50 and 0.70 mmol of NaOH per litre of sap, respectively) and formol number (0.25 and 0.20 mmol NaOH per litre of sap, respectively) were determined. The protein concentration was found to be higher in maple sap (171 and 127 mg/l, respectively). The antioxidant concentration, determined using quercetin as a standard, was 0.35 mg of quercetin equivalents (QE)/l in birch sap and 0.77 mg QE/l in maple sap. In conclusion, Latvian maple sap contains more bioactive and mineral compounds than birch sap. Latvian birch sap contains up to 20% more glucose and fructose than birch sap produced in Finland, but Latvian maple sap contains 10 to 40% less sucrose than sap produced in North America.
Dietary Behaviour in Students with Different Body Fat Percent
Authors: Lagzdiņa Rudīte , Blumfelds Leons , Rumaka Maija , Aberberga-Augškalne Līga 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Eating habits with uniform food preferences and increased energy intake can contribute to increased gain of body fat. An adequate diet, body self-evaluation, and recognition of unhealthy nutrition patterns should promote appropriate corrective actions. The aim of the present study was to determine whether energy intake, food diversity and corrective modification of body mass differed among student groups with low, normal and high body fat percentage. The study involved 737 (158 male and 579 female) students of the Rîga Stradiòð University (age 18-49 years). Dietary behaviour was determined using self-administered questionnaire. Body fat percentage was determined with a Tanita MC-180 bioimpedance analyser. Fluid and food intake, as well as physical activity before the test was restricted. The results showed that 15% of students in the low, 38% in the normal and 62% in the high body fat percentage groups considered that they eat too much. In the low, normal and high body fat percentage groups of students, 27%, 37% and 42%, respectively, agreed that they do restrict food intake. There were no significant differences in normalised energy intake and food diversity indexes between these student groups. Students in the high body fat percentage group more frequently admitted eating to much, and their corrective behaviour was associated more with reduced amounts of eaten food rather than minimisation of energy intake and increased food diversity. In all fat percentage groups, female students more frequently admitted that they eat too much and more often tended to restrict food intake than male students.
Nutrition Value of Wild Animal Meat
Authors: Strazdiņa Vita , Jemeļjanovs Aleksandrs , Šterna Vita 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
One of the most valuable foods is meat, due its nutritional value, largely determined by the essential amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, etc. At the same time, concern needs to be given to health of consumers by used products with less calories, which can be ensured by greater variety of game animals, including also deer grown in captivity. The aim of our investigation was to compare the nutrition value of elk, wild deer, farm deer, roe deer, and wild boar that were killed during hunting in Latvia. Meat samples (m. logissimus lumborum) were collected in the autumn- winter season. The results of the conducted research suggest that game meat samples have higher protein and essential fatty acid content in comparison with domestic animals. The amount of fat in all analysed samples did not differ greatly, although the fatty acid content in wild game meat differed significantly. The fatty acid profile was used to calculate the atherogenicity index (AI), which has a positive correlation with the risk of cardiovascular disorders. The formula AI = [C12 : 0 + (C14 : 0 × 4) + C16 : 0 ] / (Total unsaturated fatty acids) was used to calculate the ratio of total saturated fatty acids, ω-6 and ω-3. Regarding the microelement content of meat there were great differences in iron and manganese concentration among animals.
Eating Habits of Children and Adolescents with Epilepsy in Latvia
Authors: Vīksna Zane , Ligere Renāte 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the eating habits of epileptic children and adolescents. Forty one patients (12 girls and 14 boys aged 0-10 years, and 10 girls and 5 boys aged 11-18 years) were enrolled in the study. A survey on consumption rate of different dietary products was conducted. The diet groups considered were carbohydrates, fat, protein, fibre and liquid. We found that 35-58% of patients aged 0-10 years used soda drinks, juices and popcorn regularly. The proportion was more than two times in adolescents. Consumption of sweets in both age groups was 83-100%. Half of children aged 0-10 years said that they ate chips and fried potatoes regularly and 80-100% of adolescents consumed these products at least once a week. Half of the boys and almost all younger girls consumed various milk products daily; adolescent epileptic boys consumed milk products two times more than girls. Among older girls, 40% did not drink milk. The youngest girls consumed meat and fish 1.5 to 3.5 times more than boys, while the number of boys consuming these products increased with age. It was estimated that 75-100% of patients ate fruits and vegetables daily. Only two children and two adolescents were found to drink lots of water. In conclusion, children and adolescents with epilepsy preferred meals rich in carbohydrates and fat, rather than protein; a high number of the evaluated patients drank soda drinks and juices several times a week; only a few had intake of water daily; and all patients ate fruits and vegetables daily, thus compensating unhealthy eating habits.
Determination of Oxalate and Some Inorganic Anions in Green and Black Tea
Authors: Yusenko Elena , Polyntseva Evgeniya , Lyzhova Anna , Kalyakina Olga 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Oxalate concentration differs in various daily consumed food products. The role of oxalic acid in the human body is very significant, as its compounds are responsible for the stability of biological membranes. However, insoluble calcium and magnesium oxalates can be accumulated in the body in the form of kidney stones. Oxalate concentration has been measured by high performance liquid, gas after derivatization and ion chromatography (IC). The most effective method for the simultaneous determination of oxalate and inorganic anions is ion chromatography with conductometric detection. Here, we report the results of the measurement of oxalic acid in bleak and green tea samples. Separation was performed by IC on an anion-exchange column Shodex IC SI-90 with surface-layer sorbent and conductimetric detection. The main analytical features of the method were: limit of detection of oxalic acid 0.03 mg/l, linear range 0.1-20 mg/l, correlation 0.9998, relative standard deviation 1%. The method did not need specific sample treatment and was successfully applied to the analysis of black and green tea samples. Oxalic acid was determined in the ranges 16.7-84 mg/l for green tea and 63-116 mg/l for black tea. Green tea contained lower oxalate ions concentration than black tea. The IC method has a lower detection limit for oxalate ions than HPLS and GC, ten and two times less, respectively
Twisted gamma filtration and algebras with orthogonal involution
Authors: Junkins Caroline 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
For the Grothendieck group of a split simple linear algebraic group, the twisted γ-filtration provides a useful tool for constructing torsion elements in -rings of twisted flag varieties. In this paper, we construct a non-trivial torsion element in the γ-ring of a complete flag variety twisted by means of a PGO-torsor. This generalizes the construction in the HSpin case previously obtained by Zainoulline.
A time-trend analysis of intended career choice for family medicine among croatian medical students
Authors: Evic Jelena , Pavlekovic Gordana , Murgic Lucija , Brborovic Hana 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Aim: To gain insight into the trend of career choice for family medicine in Croatia in recent years.

Methods: Six surveys were performed in the academic years 2006/07-2011/12 at the University of Zagreb, School of Medicine. Altogether, 1140 6th year students participated. They anonymously completed a questionnaire containing questions on desired future specialisation as well as other selected characteristics (e.g. gender, desired area and place of work, motivation to study medicine, etc.). Binary logistic regression was used to determine unadjusted and adjusted trends.

Results: After adjustment for selected factors, the relationship between observed outcome and the year of observation showed an evident decreasing trend. The odds for intention to specialise in family medicine were in the academic year 2006/2007 1.43-times higher than in the year 2007/2008 (p=0.412), 1.85-times higher than in the year 2008/2009 (p=0.168), 2.38-times higher than in the year 2009/2010 (p=0.051), 2.63-times higher than in the year 2010/2011 (p=0.027) and 3.85-times higher than in the year 2011/2012 (p=0.003).

Conclusions: The results of the present study offer evidence that Croatia is experiencing a constantly decreasing trend of career choice for family medicine in recent years. It is obvious that final year medical students are not very much interested in working as family practitioners. At the same time, demand for family practitioners in Croatia is increasing. Both academic and professional societies have a social responsibility to reorient the health care system and medical curricula towards comprehensive primary health care in which family medicine has a key role.
In Mud Forgotten: Old Kingdom Palaeoecological Evidence from Abusir
Authors: Bárta Miroslav 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
The study aims to summarize major evidence on climate development on the pyramid fields based on Abusir data and dating to the Old Kingdom (2700 - 2200 BC). The interpretation of the latest data presented in the article is based on the presence and specific of mollusks, beetles, Lake of Abusir sediments, small vertebrate and archaeological evidence documented during research of several Old Kingdom tomb complexes and the seasonal Lake of Abusir. The study shows that the climate change was of a long-term nature and its origins may be dated at least to the second half of the Fifth Dynasty.
The Response of Secondary Genes to Lipopolysaccharides in Macrophages Depends on Histone Deacetylase and Phosphorylation of C/EBPβ
Authors: Serrat Neus , Sebastian Carlos , Pereira-Lopes Selma , Valverde-Estrella Lorena , Lloberas Jorge , Celada Antonio 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
LPS induces the expression of NO synthase 2 (nos2) in macrophages. The expression of this molecule is one of the hallmarks of classical activation. In this paper, we describe that trichostatin A (TSA), which inhibits deacetylase activity, blocks LPS-dependent nos2 expression. TSA specifically inhibits LPS-dependent genes of secondary response, which require new protein synthesis for their induction but not those belonging to the primary response, which do not depend on this process. Deacetylase activity acts at the transcriptional level because RNA polymerase II was not bound after LPS stimulus when we added TSA. A link between the global acetylation caused by HDAC inhibitor and gene promoter recruitment of CDK8 was found. This Mediator complex subunit associates with Med 12, Med13, and cyclin C to form a submodule that is a transcriptional negative regulator. We also found that TSA reduces C/EBPβ phosphorylation without affecting its binding to DNA. Taken together, these results shed light on the molecular mechanisms involved in the transcriptional regulation of LPS-treated macrophages and on how TSA targets critical LPS-induced genes, such as nos2 and tnf-α, in inflammatory macrophage response.