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factorial and heterogeneous, manifesting as damage to the developing brain. The associated risk factors can arise in the prenatal, perinatal, or postnatal period. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for CP and examine the associations between CP type, gestational age, and perinatal risk factors. Methods. The study sample comprised 206 children with CP. Pertinent data were collected from medical records and included participants’ gestational age at birth, medical history, and CP clinical characteristics. Risk factors were divided according to the timing o f brain injury into prenatal, perinatal, and neonatal. Results. Hormonally maintained pregnancy (55.3%), twin pregnancy (28.9%), vaginal bleeding after the 20th week of gestation (21.1%), threatened abortion in the first half of pregnancy (13.2%), and maternal infection (10.5%) were identified as the main prenatal risk factors for CP. Prematurity (54.5%) was the leading perinatal risk factor, followed by low birthweight (50.8%), Apgar score < 7 (41.7%), assisted delivery (41.4%), and breech presentation (13.5%). Respiratory distress syndrome (16%), need for treatment in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (22.3%), assisted ventilation (18.4%), hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (11.2%), and neonatal convulsions (5.8%) were identified as the leading neonatal risk factors for CP. A statistically significant difference was found in the total number of perinatal risk factors in relation to gestational age (p < 0.001) and CP type (p = 0.006). Perinatal risk factors were most prevalent in preterm infants and children affected by the CP of spastic bilateral type. A statistically significant difference was noted in the distribution of CP types depending on the gestational age (p < 0.001). In particular, spastic bilateral CP type was most prevalent in the group of preterm-born children. Conclusion. CP is characterized by heterogeneous risk factors and is a result of interaction among multiple risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), which enhances osteoclast activity and bone resorption, is one of the key inflammation mediators in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of this study was to assess the influence of yearlong TNF-α inhibitor application on bone metabolism. The study sample comprised 50 female patients with RA. Analyses involved the osteodensitometry measurements obtained using a "Lunar" type apparatus and the following biochemical markers from serum: procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide (P1NP), beta crosslaps C-terminal telopeptide of collagen type I (b-CTX) by ECLIA method, total and ionized calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone and vitamin D. Analyses revealed changes in bone mineral density (BMD) at L1–L4 and the femoral neck, with the difference in mean BMD (g/cm2) not exceeding the threshold of statistical significance (p = 0.180; p = 0.502). Upon completion of 12-month therapy, a significant increase (p < 0.001) in P1NP was observed relative to b-CTX, with mean total calcium and phosphorus values following a decreasing trend, while vitamin D levels increased. These results suggest that yearlong application of TNF inhibitors has the capacity to positively impact bone metabolism, as indicated by an increase in bone-forming markers and relatively stable BMD (g/cm2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infestation of the road-killed hedgehogs (Erinaceus roumanicus) with Ixodes ticks in some parts of Upper Thracian Plain (Bulgaria) was investigated. A total of 5 tick species from 3 genera were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite the progress in breast cancer treatment, currently used methods are often aggressive and with low selectivity, thus inducing systemic toxicity while obtaining limited eff ect. The application of nanotechnologies is a promising novel technology, which could overcome these limitations. Corresponding section headings: Incorporation of the medication into a nanocarrier enables the administration of molecules with the suboptimal pharmacokinetic profi les if given as free agents. Furthermore, nanomedicine could improve the safety profi le of currently used chemotherapeutics, by modifying pharmacokinetic properties and prolonging the half-life of the therapeutic. Most importantly, it provides a possibility of designing drug carriers with selective delivery to malignant cells, based on their characteristics. Conclusion: This advantage initiated an entirely new subset of targeted breast cancer therapy development, and has demonstrated favorable outcomes even in treatment of aggressive malignant types, metastatic developments, and multi-drug resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gut micro flora represents a system of extensive metabolic capacity which is quite different when compared to other cells of body and organs. In recent times, there has been an evidence of very important role of gut cysteine conjugate beta-lyases in metabolism of cystein conjugates. A lot of studies are dedicated to exploration of the role of gut micro flora in formation of methylthio adducts from paracetamol in conventional mice and those treated with neomycin as our study. A highly significant reduction in urinary excretion of 3-methylthioparacetamol in group of neomycin-treated mice was confirmed as well its glucuronic acid and sulphate conjugates. Following the principal role of gut flora in the C-S cleavage of paracetamol l-3-cyctein it is clear that highest concentration of methylthio adducts from paracetamol are presented in pretreated mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper describes an experimental, mechanically simple, tactile sensing solution in the form of a sensing chair for discriminating human motion in a reaching task. This cost-efficient technical approach was employed for the assessment of selective arm movements in stroke survivors. The sensing system classifies trunk motion in a seated stroke survivor during a goal-directed task where there is direct correlation with the level of severity of arm movement. The system interprets motion mechanically from coupled sensory data transients using artificial neural networks and shows tolerance to patients' sitting posture and performance variability. The accuracy of classification was typically greater than 94% across three categories when applied to a group of stroke survivors of wide-ranging motor abilities. The mechanical simplicity, versatility of approach for use in other classes of movement, and potential low cost of manufacturing provides opportunity to employ the system at clinics and homes for assessment and training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are one of the most common infectious diseases, primarily caused by bacteria present in the intestinum, affecting the entire urinary tract or only a part of it. If the urinary bladder and urethra are affected then they are considered "lower" urinary tract infections, and the affected kidneys and ureter are considered "upper" urinary tract infections. There is a division into uncomplicated and complicated UTIs. Approximately 15% of all prescribed antibiotics in the United States are prescribed as therapy of UTIs. The UTI data from other countries are similar. The costs incurred in the treatment of these infections are significant - in the United States, the direct costs of UTI treatments are estimated at $ 1.6 billion per year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. Assessment of minor neurological dysfunction (MND) provides information about a child's neurological condition which helps to identify the vulnerability of the child to the development of motor impairment, difficulties in learning or behavioral disorders. The aim of this study was to determine differences in the prevalence of MND in children from the general population with respect to age (5 and 6 years old) and sex. Methods. The examination was carried out in a preschool institution in the city of Novi Sad, Serbia. The total sample included 120 children divided into two groups according to age: 60 children aged 5 (group A) and 60 children aged 6 years (group B). The children were recruited at three randomly selected kindergartens and approximately equal sex representation, randomly selected as well. The testing was done by the Touwen's test, modified by Hadders-Algra. The results were classified into three groups: the absence of MND, presence of simple MND (presence of one or two domains of dysfunction) and the presence of complex MND (presence of at least three domains of dysfunction). Results. Sixtyseven children out of 120 (55.8%) had a normal neurological condition, while 53 (44.2%) showed MND [49 (40.8%) simple, and 4 (3.4%) complex]. MND occurred more frequently in the youngest age group than in the older children (57% vs. 32%; p = 0.01). MND was also more frequent in boys than in girls, but this difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion. Our results show the importance of testing children at preschool age in order to detect potential neurological vulnerability and timely begin with the appropriate therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Even though lumbar pain is one of the most common medical problems of today, it is difficult to determine its precise origin. When identifying the risk factors for developing lumbar pain, one should also take into account the personal characteristics such as gender, age, body mass index, smoking habits, physical activities etc. The basic goal of this study was to assess the relationship between the socio-demographic characteristics (age, gender, level of education), the body mass index, smoking habits, and lumbar pain in nurses. Material and Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted in five healthcare institutions in the area of Vojvodina by interviewing nurses by means of the modified Nordic questionnaire. Results. The participants were predominantly female, the majority of them having secondary school degree. The study revealed a statistically significant relationship between lumbar pain and the increase of age and body mass index, while smoking habits did not influence the occurrence of lumbar pain. Conclusion. A better organization of work in relation to the age and gender as well body mass control would reduce the risk of lumbar pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Anthropozoonoses are diseases that affect humans and animals and they can be transmitted naturally from animals to humans. The aim of this study was to identify characteristics and types of occupational hazards that lead to occupational anthropozoonoses, determine their incidence in economic activities of the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina. Material and Methods. Using a descriptive, epidemiological study we analysed the occupational anthropozoonoses occurring in the Vojvodina which were registered at the Institute of Occupational Health Novi Sad, Serbia, from 1992 to 2016. Results. In the observed period, a total of 481 occupational diseases were identified, out of which 62 (12.9%) cases were the occupational infectious diseases. A total of 19 cases of occupational anthropozoonoses were registered. The average annual incidence of occupational anthropozoonoses was 0.96 per 100,000 employees. The linear trend of annual incidence was negative. The average age was 44.05±8.34 years. Male patients accounted for 73.7% of cases. The average length of service among patients was 19.63±8.2 years. Conclusion. In addition to the implementation of available specific immunization measures and personal protection measures that prevent contact with pathogens, it is important to continuously educate workers concerning the workplace risks and perform preventive medical examinations in order to enable early recognition and treatment of the disease. In addition, continuous education of medical practitioners of different specialities would help to better identify occupational anthropozoonoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context The bile acid taurocholic acid (TCA) is endogenously produced, and has shown formulation-stabilising effects when incorporated into microcapsules containing potential antidiabetic drugs. This study aimed to develop and characterise TCA-microcapsules, and test their antidiabetic effects, in an animal model of Type 1 diabetes (T1D). Methods Using the polymer sodium alginate (SA), SA-microcapsules (control) and TCA-microcapsules (test) were prepared, and assessed for morphology, surface composition, chemical and thermal stability, swelling, buoyancy, mechanical, release and rheological properties. TCA-microcapsules were gavaged as a single dose (1.2 mg/300 g) to alloxan-induced diabetic rats, and blood glucose and TCA concentrations in serum, tissues (ileum, liver and pancreas) and faeces, were measured. One healthy and one diabetic group were used as control and gavaged SA-microcapsules. Results TCA-microcapsules showed consistent size, TCA presence on surface and all layers of microcapsules, chemical and thermal stability, enhanced swelling, buoyancy and targeted-release properties and rheological analysis showed Non-Newtonian flow properties. TCA serum concentrations were lower in the healthy group, compared with the diabetic and diabetic-treated groups, but there was no significant difference between diabetic control and diabetic treated groups, in terms of TCA levels, and blood glucose concentrations. Conclusions The developed TCA-microcapsules showed good stability and release properties, but did not lower blood glucose levels in T1D, which suggests absence of insulin-mimetic effects, when using a single 1.2 mg/rat oral dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bile acids are steroidal compounds, which contain 24 carbon atoms. They can be classified into two major groups: primary and secondary.The most abundant bile acids: The primary bile acids include cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid, while the major secondary bile acids are deoxycholic acid and litocholic acid. Bile acids are important physiological agents for intestinal absorption of nutrients and are used for biliary lipid secretion, toxic metabolites and xenobiotics. The aim of this paper is to analyze biosynthesis and biotransformation of bile acids, as preparation for practical usage in laboratory and clinical conditions. Topic: Biosynthesis and biotransformation of bile acids: The biosynthesis of bile acids is the dominant metabolic pathway for catabolism of cholesterol in humans. The classical route of biosynthesis of bile acids is embarking on the conversion of cholesterol into 7α−hydroxycholesterol using enzyme 7α−cholesterol hydroxylase (CYP7A1). This enzyme is one of the microsomal cytochrome P450 enzyme is localized exclusively in the liver. Classical road is the main road in the biosynthesis of bile acids, and its total contribution amounts to 90% for people, and 75% in mice. CYP 7A1 enzyme is considered to be sensitive to the inhibition of carbon monoxide, and the condition for the eff ect of NADPH, the oxygen, lecithin, and the NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase. Bile acids are important signaling molecules and metabolic controls which activate the nuclear receptor and the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR), a signaling lipid regulation of the liver, glucose and energy homeostasis. Also, bile acids maintain metabolic homeostasis. Biotransformation of bile acids: The conversion of cholesterol into bile acids just important for maintenance of cholesterol homeostasis, but also to prevent the accumulation of cholesterol, triglycerides and toxic metabolites as well as violations of the liver and other organs. Enterohepatic circulation of bile acids from the liver to the intestine and back to the liver occupies the most important role in the processes of absorption and distribution, as well as in metabolic regulation and homeostasis. Conclusions: This physiological process is complicated and regulates the membrane transport system in the liver and intestine by means of nuclear receptors. It is very dangerous fact that toxic bile acids may be causes of inflammation, apoptosis and cell death. On the other hand activated GPCR signaling and nuclear bile acid protects against inflammation of the liver, intestine and macrophages. Bile acid metabolism disorders cause cholestatic liver disease, dyslipidemia, fatty liver disease, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Elbow fractures account for 7 - 9% of all fractures in children, while supracondylar humeral fractures are the most common fractures in the elbow joint region. Most of these fractures are seen in children between 5 and 8 years of age. Management of elbow injuries. Orthopedic treatment of elbow injuries includes conservative and/or surgical treatment, and outcomes are much better in children than in adults. The main contributing factors to the development of elbow contractures include the severity of the trauma, intra-articular damage, and length of immobilization. The literature is still limited in terms of the time required for regaining good elbow range of motion after contracture. Complication of elbow injuries. Neurological deficits may be treated conservatively, by electrical stimulation, vitamin therapy and intensive exercises. Physical therapy of elbow contracture. Some authors showed that, in uncomplicated cases of supracondylar elbow fractures, physical therapy is not necessary in order to regain adequate range of motion. On the other hand, according to guide recommendations, after post-traumatic elbow immobilisation and reduced mobility, patients should undergo occupational and physical therapy as soon as possible after the period of immobilization. It has been proven that combined active and passive therapeutic programs significantly improve the range of motion of the elbow joint. Conclusion. The therapeutic approach to post-traumatic contracture of the elbow should be individual, patiently and properly dosed, with follow-up of pathogenesis and kinesiology disorders. However, physicians should be aware of the fact that particular attention should primarily be paid to the prevention of contractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the study on the effects of simultaneous exposure to benzene and ethanol on benzene metabolism. It states that benzene metabolism in mice was examined by measuring thioether excretion in urine which is a simple and inexpensive method for routine use. It mentions that simultaneous exposure to benzene and ethanol resulted to a significant decrease in urinary thioether excretion.

Background/Aim. Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the leading causes of neurological impairment in childhood. Preterm birth is a significant risk factor in the occurrence of CP. Clinical outcomes may include impairment of gross motor function and intellectual abilities, visual impairment and epilepsy. The aim of this study was to examine the relationships among gestational age, type of CP, functional ability and associated conditions. Methods. The sample size was 206 children with CP. The data were obtained from medical records and included gestational age at birth, clinical characteristics of CP and associated conditions. Clinical CP type was determined according to Surveillance of Cerebral Palsy in Europe (SCPE) and topographically. Gross motor function abilities were evaluated according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). Results. More than half of the children with CP were born prematurely (54.4%). Statistically significant difference was noted with respect to the distribution of various clinical types of CP in relation to gestational age (p < 0.001). In the group with spastic bilateral CP type, there is a greater proportion of children born preterm. Statistically significant difference was noted in the functional classification based on GMFCS in terms of gestational age (p = 0.049), children born at earlier gestational age are classified at a higher GMFCS level of functional limitation. The greatest percentage of children (70.0%) affected by two or more associated conditions was found in the group that had extremely preterm birth, and that number declined with increasing maturity at birth. Epilepsy was more prevalent in children born at greater gestational age, and this difference in distribution was statistically significant (p = 0.032). Conclusion. The application of antenatal and postnatal protection of preterm children should be a significant component of the CP prevention strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, the discovery of drugs based on animal venoms undergoes its rebirth: pharmaceutical companies start to accept gradually the potential of animal venoms as combinatorial libraries of biologically active compounds. Sea anemones are a group of animals that produce the most structurally versatile polypeptide venom components, which distinguish them from the majority of other venomous animals. The known polypeptide toxins from the sea anemone venoms are considered in this review primarily in terms of their classification according to structural features. The most outstanding functional features of polypeptides within each class were analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused considerable stress and anxiety in the general population, especially among students. The objective of this study was to determine the stress and anxiety levels among medical rehabilitation students induced by distance education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: The sample for this prospective cross-sectional study included 96 students pursuing the medical rehabilitation undergraduate degree at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Serbia. All respondents took part in an online survey created on the Google Forms platform and accessed via the Facebook social network. The questionnaire included a sociodemographic section, the perceived stress scale (PSS), and the worry about online learning scale (WOLS). All data were analyzed using the IBM SPSS version 25. Results: The study involved 96 students with an average age of 21.97 ± 1.55 years, 72.9% of whom were female. The total stress reported by the students during the COVID-19 pandemic was higher in females than in males (21.75 [SD = 7.50] vs. 17.84 [SD = 8.58]; p < 0.05). Younger students were more susceptible to experiencing stress during the pandemic (rho = -0.217, p < 0.05). Moreover, 57.3% of students suffered from moderate stress, while the WOLS scores indicated that distance education induced a high level of discomfort in this cohort (3.8 [IQR = 1.6]). Conclusions: Medical rehabilitation students showed a moderate level of stress and a high level of concern about distance education. This stress was more prevalent among younger students and females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fourteen newly found Arthropods taxa in the Stone Marten's diet in Central Bulgaria were reported. Five of them were defined to species level. The study was carried out on the base of collected fecal samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused considerable stress and anxiety in the general population, especially among students. The objective of this study was to determine the stress and anxiety levels among medical rehabilitation students induced by distance education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: The sample for this prospective cross-sectional study included 96 students pursuing the medical rehabilitation undergraduate degree at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Serbia. All respondents took part in an online survey created on the Google Forms platform and accessed via the Facebook social network. The questionnaire included a sociodemographic section, the perceived stress scale (PSS), and the worry about online learning scale (WOLS). All data were analyzed using the IBM SPSS version 25. Results: The study involved 96 students with an average age of 21.97 ± 1.55 years, 72.9% of whom were female. The total stress reported by the students during the COVID-19 pandemic was higher in females than in males (21.75 [SD = 7.50] vs. 17.84 [SD = 8.58]; p < 0.05). Younger students were more susceptible to experiencing stress during the pandemic (rho = -0.217, p < 0.05). Moreover, 57.3% of students suffered from moderate stress, while the WOLS scores indicated that distance education induced a high level of discomfort in this cohort (3.8 [IQR = 1.6]). Conclusions: Medical rehabilitation students showed a moderate level of stress and a high level of concern about distance education. This stress was more prevalent among younger students and females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A combined РИТМ-СП facility intended for forming thin alloy layers on the sample surface during the single vacuum cycle (in situ) is described. The facility consists of a low-energy (10-30 keV) high-current (up to 25 kA) pulsed (2-4 μs) electron beam source and a magnetron sputtering device mounted together with the electron gun of the source on the common vacuum working chamber. The chamber is equipped with the manipulator intended to move the working table with samples without vacuum failures. The facility contains a computer-aided system for controlling the pumping, filling of the chamber with the working gas, power supply units, synchronization of pulse processes during the generation of the electron beam, deposition of films, displacements of the sample, etc. To illustrate the operation of the facility, results of experiments on surface alloying for the Ni-Cu system are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is very hard to define perinatal asphyxia, because of numerous definitions that are in use today. It depends on what you want to emphasize. The term asphyxia is not suitable because it means without pulse, and it is used to mark condition without breathing and with still maintenance of the pulse. The term birth asphyxia has been replaced with the term neonatal encephalopathy because this latter term does not imply a causal relationship. The proofs suggest that 70-80% of cerebral palsy is caused by prenatal factors and birth asphyxia has relatively less role with 10%. Aim of the study is to determine the neonatal encephalopathy as perinatal etiological factor of the cerebral palsy. Sample was consisted of 80 children and adolescents with cerebral palsy of Canton Sarajevo, age from 6 up to 20 (1998-1984); mean age was 13,94 years, 47 male (58,75%) and 33 (41,25% female. Study is cohort, descriptive and retrospectively prospective. 35 (43,75%) participants had prenatal etiological factors, 37 (46,25%) perinatal, 5 (6,25%) postnatal and unknown etiological factors 3 (3,75%) participants. Birth weight less than 2500 gr had 35 children (43,75%), 2501-3500 gr 26 children (32,5%), more than 3501 gr 17 children (21,25%) and for 2 children (2,5%) birth weight was unknown. For 66 children (82,5 %) Apgar score was unknown: 32 parents (40%) didn't remember, 12 (15%) didn't have document of hospital dismissal because of the war, in 20 (25%) documents of hospital dismissal there were no Apgar score and 2 children were born at home. For 14 children (17,5%) Apgar score is known: 4 (5%) Apgar: 0-4, 3 Apgar: 5-7, 7 (8,75%) Apgar >7. Conclusion: Time of birth before introduction of modern neonatal intensive care in Bosnia and Herzegovina and wartime produced more representation of perinatal etiological factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing data related to the probability of breech presentation suggest that the breech presentation is a consequence of mere filling of the intrauterine space, with the same probability of breech and cephalic presentation. As a consequence, group of cephalic presenting fetuses is heterogenous. Some fetuses randomly assume the cephalic presentation while others assume cephalic presentation ‘intentionally’ for a reason. Before comparing breech and cephalic presenting fetuses/newborns, bias should be eliminated by subtracting from the cephalic-presenting group the number of fetuses/newborns that is identical with the number of breech-presenting fetuses/newborns with identical characteristics. The subtracted group should be added to the breech-presenting group before comparison with the remaining cephalic-presenting fetuses/newborns. The comparison should be corrected for the gestational age and according to data that are not influenced by delivery. Data suggest that the physiological process that accounts for 92% of cephalic-presenting human fetuses at delivery should be sought from the 25th gestational week onwards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of our study were to determine concentrations of wasted halothane in operating rooms and to investigate the effect of halothane pollution on liver functions of exposed personnel. The studied group included operating room personnel from the clinic of surgery, Novi Sad University Clinical Center. Surgeons were exposed to an average concentration of 29.41 mg/m³, anesthesiologists to 34.60 mg/m³, instrumenting nurses to 28.62 mg/m³ and anesthetists to 30.09 mg/m³ of halothane. Anesthesiologists in 32% of operations were exposed to a concentration higher than the threshold limit value, surgeons in 23%, instumenting nurses in 22% and anesthetists in 18% of operations. Laboratory values of the liver function indicators in the exposed group were significantly worse than in the control group. The results suggest that exposure to wasted halothane may be harmful to the livers of operating room personnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Raman and photoluminescence (PL) spectra of nanocrystalline zinc oxide produced by mechanochemical synthesis were measured using a pulsed nitrogen laser (337.1 nm) and xenon lamp (360 nm) as excitation sources in PL measurements and a cw Nd:YAG laser in Raman measurements. PL was observed in the range 400–800 nm. The Raman spectrum of nanocrystalline (90 nm) ZnO was compared to that of coarsegrained ZnO. The Raman bands of nanocrystalline zinc oxide were found to be shifted to lower frequencies and broadened. Laser radiation was shown to cause local heating of zinc oxide up to 1000 K, resulting in photoinduced formation of zinc nanoclusters. Mixtures of zinc oxide and sodium chloride powders are heated to substantially lower temperatures. Under nitrogen laser excitation, the green PL band (535 nm), characteristic of bulk ZnO, is shifted to longer wavelengths by 85 nm. The results are interpreted in terms of light confinement in zinc oxide microclusters consisting of large number of nanocrystallites. The photoinduced processes in question may be a viable approach to producing metal-insulator structures in globular photonic crystals, opals, filled with zinc oxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe use of antioxidants could thus prove an effective medication to prevent or facilitate recovery from oxidative stress-induced sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). One promising strategy to prevent SNHL is developing probucol (PB)-based nanoparticles using encapsulation technology and administering them to the inner ear via the established intratympanic route. The preclinical, clinical and epidemiological studies support that PB is a proven antioxidant that could effectively prevent oxidative stress in different study models. Such findings suggest its applicability in preventing oxidative stress within the inner ear and its associated neural cells. However, several hurdles, such as overcoming the blood-labyrinth barrier, ensuring sustained release, minimising systemic side effects and optimising targeted delivery in the intricate inner ear structures, must be overcome to efficiently deliver PB to the inner ear. This review explores the background and pathogenesis of hearing loss, the potential of PB in treating oxidative stress and its cellular mechanisms, and the obstacles linked to inner ear drug delivery for effectively introducing PB to the inner ear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Oxidative stress and inflammation are closely related pathophysiological processes, both occurring in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In addition to the standard treatment of T2DM, a potential strategy has been focused on the use of bile acids (BAs) as an additional treatment. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), as the first BA used in humans, improves glucose and lipid metabolism and attenuates oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential metabolic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects of UDCA in patients with T2DM. Methods. This prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study included 60 patients with T2DM, randomly allocated to receive UDCA or placebo. Subjects were treated with 500 mg tablets of UDCA or placebo administered three times per day (total dose of 1500 mg/day) for eight weeks. Two study visits, at the beginning (F0) and at the end (F1) of the study, included the interview, anthropometric and clinical measurements, and biochemical analyses. Results. UDCA treatment showed a significant reduction in body mass index (p = 0.024) and in diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.033), compared to placebo. In addition, there was a statistically significant difference in waist circumference in the UDCA group before and after treatment (p < 0.05). Although no statistical significance was observed at the two-month follow-up assessment, an average decrease in glucose levels in the UDCA group was observed. After two months of the intervention period, a significant decrease in the activity of liver enzymes was noticed. Furthermore, a significant reduction in prooxidative parameters (TBARS, NO2-, H2O2) and significant elevation in antioxidative parameters such as SOD and GSH were found (p < 0.001). Conclusions. The eight-week UDCA administration showed beneficial effects on metabolic and oxidative stress parameters in patients with T2DM. Thus, UDCA could attenuate the progression and complications of diabetes and should be considered as an adjuvant to other diabetes treatment modalities. This trial is registered with NCT05416580. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-photon-excited luminescence (TEL) spectra have been recorded in the blue (400-500 nm) and near-ultraviolet (300-400 nm) ranges for diamond particles with 4 nm average size, which were obtained by detonation synthesis from explosives. The observed TEL bands are attributed, by comparing the obtained spectra with the impurity luminescence spectra in large diamond crystals, to N2 and N3 defects associated with the presence of nitrogen impurities in diamond. The TEL spectra presented are found to have certain distinguishing features: short-wavelength shift of the maximum and changes in the shape and width of the spectral bands for ultradispersed diamond compared with the spectrum in bulk crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synopsis: The increased incidence of congenital postural deformities among newborns with breech presentation may be associated with causes of breech presentation rather than the presentation itself. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background/Aim. It is known that bile acids improve the absorption, bio availability and pharmacodynamic characteristics of some drugs. Morphine analgesia is produced by activation of opioid receptors within the central nervous system (CNS) at both spinal and supraspinal levels. Since a morphine molecule contains 3 polar groups and therefore hard to transfer through the blood-brain barrier, the aim of the study was to examine the potential influence of bile acids derivates, namely sodium salt of monoketocholic acid (MKH-Na) and methyl ester of monoketocholic acid (MKH-Me), on analgesic effect of morphine. Methods. White male mice of NMRI-Haan strain, with body weight of 20-24 g, were used in this study. The analgesic effect of morphine (administered by subcutaneous and intramuscular route in a dose of 2 mg/kg), with and without pretreatment with MKH-Na (4 mg/kg) and MKH-Me (4 mg/kg) was estimated by the hot plate method. Results. Administration of MKH-Me prior to subcutaneous administration of morphine increased the morphine analgesic effect but the increase was not statistically significant. At the same time administration of MKH-Na did not affect morphine analgesic effect. The analgesic effect of morphine increased when administered intramuscularly 20 min after MKH-Me administration. When compared with the group of animals treated only with morphine, a statistically significant increase in analgesic effect was detected 10, 30, 40 and 50 min after morphine administration (p < 0.05). Pretreatment with MKH-Na did not affect morphine analgesic effect. Conclusion. According to the results of this study it can be presumed that after intramuscular morphine administration methyl ester of monoketocholic acid increases morphine transport into the central nervous system and consequently the analgesic effect, as well. Further research on bile acids-morphine interaction both in vitro and in vivo is necessary to completely elucidate the mechanism of this interaction and increase in the morphine analgesic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. Stevioside is a glycoside that supposedly possesses a number of pharmacodynamic effects such as anti-infective, hypoglycemic, along with the beneficial influence on the cardiovascular system. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of rats pretreatment with aqueous solution of stevioside on pharmacological actions of adrenaline, metoprolol and verapamil. Methods. Rats were administered (intraperitoneally 200 mg/kg/day) stevioside as aqueous solution or physiological saline in the course of 5 days, then anaesthetized with urethane and the first ECG recording was made. The prepared jugular vein was connected to an infusion pump with adrenaline (0.1 mg/mL), verapamil (2.5 mg/mL) or metoprolol (1 mg/mL). Control animals, pretreated with saline, in addition to the mentioned drugs, were also infused with the solution of stevioside (200 mg/mL) in the course of recording ECG. Results. The infusion of stevioside produced no significant changes in ECG, even at a dose exceeding 1,600 mg/kg. In the control group, a dose of adrenaline of 0.07 ± 0.02 mg/kg decreased the heart rate, whereas in the stevioside-pretreated rats this occurred at a significantly higher dose (0.13 ± 0.03 mg/kg). In stevioside-pretreated rats, the amount of verapamil needed to produce the decrease in heart rate was significantly lower compared to the control. The pretreatment with stevioside caused no significant changes in the parameters registered on ECG during infusion of metoprolol. Conclusion. The results suggest that pretreatment with stevioside may change the effect of adrenaline and verapamile on the heart rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The advancement of technology in the world is more and more evident, as is its implementation in almost all spheres of life, and so is its application in medicine. The use of robotics in medicine has become increasingly important, with a wide scope of application. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine parental attitudes towards the robot-assisted therapy in pediatric (re) habilitation and to assess the degree of parental acceptance and apprehension towards humanoid robots, along with their expectations. Material and Methods. The study included 32 parents of both genders, whose children took part in the treatment using a mobile anthropomorphic robot with cognitive skills, and who completed the Frankenstein Syndrome Questionnaire. Results. The study showed that parental attitudes towards humanoid robots and robot-assisted therapy were positive. Conclusion. In our study, parents showed neutral attitudes and positive expectations of humanoid robots. They have accepted them socially, without negative feelings on the religious and psychosocial levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Deoxycholic acid (DCA), lithocholic acid (LCA), and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) are bile acids that may serve as permeation enhancers when incorporated within the nanogel matrix for drug delivery in the inner ear. In this study, thermoresponsive nanogels were formulated with DCA, LCA and UDCA and their rheological properties and biocompatibility were assessed. The impact of nanogel on cellular viability was evaluated via cell viability assay, the impact of nanogels on cellular bioenergetic parameters was estimated by Seahorse mito-stress test and glycolysis-stress test, while the presence of intracellular free radicals was assessed by reactive oxygen species assay. Nanogels showed a high level of biocompatibility after 24-hour exposure to auditory and macrophage cell lines, with minimal cytotoxicity compared to untreated control. Incubation with nanogels did not alter cellular respiration and glycolysis of the auditory cell line but showed possible mitochondrial dysfunction in macrophages, suggesting tissue-dependent effects of bile acids. Bile acid-nanogels had minimal impact on intracellular reactive oxygen species, with LCA demonstrating the most pro-oxidative behaviour. This study suggests that thermoresponsive nanogels with bile acid, particularly DCA and UDCA, may be promising candidates for inner ear drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gene therapies are becoming more abundantly researched for use in a multitude of potential treatments, including for hearing loss. Hearing loss is a condition which impacts an increasing number of the population each year, with significant burdens associated. As such, this review will present the concept that delivering a gene effectively to the inner ear may assist in expanding novel treatment options and improving patient outcomes. Historically, several drawbacks have been associated with the use of gene therapies, some of which may be overcome via targeted delivery. Targeted delivery has the potential to alleviate off-target effects and permit a safer delivery profile. Viral vectors have often been described as a delivery method, however, there is an emerging depiction of the potential for nanotechnology to be used. Resulting nanoparticles may also be tuned to allow for targeted delivery. Therefore, this review will focus on hearing loss, gene delivery techniques and inner ear targets, including highlighting promising research. Targeted delivery is a key concept to permitting gene delivery in a safe effective manner, however, further research is required, both in the determination of genes to use in functional hearing recovery and formulating nanoparticles for targeted delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine whether severe hypoalbuminemia (<25 mg/L) has a significant effect on serum levels of vancomycin and whether it can effect vancomycin dosage regimen and the loading dose administration. Material and Methods: Prospective, cohort, and a single-center study included 61 patients whose vancomycin serum levels were measured in steady state. Vancomycin trough levels (Cmin) that were in the range 15 to 20 μg/mL were considered therapeutic and trough levels higher than 15 μg/mL were considered potentially nephrotoxic. Results: In the group of patients with severe hypoalbuminemia, Cmin was significantly higher compared to the those with nonsevere hypoalbuminemia (>25 mg/L; 23.04 [19.14] vs 13.28 [11.28], P = .01). In the group of patients who received the vancomycin loading dose of 2 g, Cmin was significantly higher in patients with severe hypoalbuminemia compared to the patients with nonsevere hypoalbuminemia (34.52 [25.93] vs 15.37 [10.48], P = .04). Conclusion: In critically ill septic patients with severe hypoalbuminemia, there is a high probability that the loading dose of vancomycin is not necessary since it is associated with potentially toxic vancomycin Cmin, while in the patients with nonsevere hypoalbuminemia the loading dose may be necessary to achieving therapeutic Cmin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel disulfide-containing polypeptide toxin was discovered in the venom of the Tibellus oblongus spider. We report on isolation, spatial structure determination and electrophysiological characterization of this 41-residue toxin, called ω-Tbo-IT1. It has an insect-toxic effect with LD50 19 μg/g in experiments on house fly Musca domestica larvae and with LD50 20 μg/g on juvenile Gromphadorhina portentosa cockroaches. Electrophysiological experiments revealed a reversible inhibition of evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents in blow fly Calliphora vicina neuromuscular junctions, while parameters of spontaneous ones were not affected. The inhibition was concentration dependent, with IC50 value 40 ± 10 nM and Hill coefficient 3.4 ± 0.3. The toxin did not affect frog neuromuscular junctions or glutamatergic and GABAergic transmission in rat brains. Ca2+ currents in Calliphora vicina muscle were not inhibited, whereas in Periplaneta americana cockroach neurons at least one type of voltage gated Ca2+ current was inhibited by ω-Tbo-IT1. Thus, the toxin apparently acts as an inhibitor of presynaptic insect Ca2+ channels. Spatial structure analysis of the recombinant ω-Tbo-IT1 by NMR spectroscopy in aqueous solution revealed that the toxin comprises the conventional ICK fold containing an extended β-hairpin loop and short β-hairpin loop which are capable of making 'scissors-like mutual motions'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article informs that lead may exert toxic effects on the nervous, digestive, hematopoietic, cardiovascular, and urinary systems. Because lead interferes with numerous enzymes involved in heme synthesis, anemia is a frequent manifestation of lead intoxication in children; however, it is an uncommon manifestation in adults. Occupational lead poisoning was confirmed in a storage battery worker, whose work involves use of an acetylene torch to cut and connect lead batteries. Anemia, peripheral polyneuropathy, and nephropathy were all manifestations of lead toxicity. The prognosis was unfavorable because of the delayed occurrence of lead nephropathy. This condition generally goes undetected until several years after the onset of toxic action because of the lack of a reliable biological indicator of early lead-induced kidney damage.

Reports carbon monoxide intoxication cases in a sugar industry production plant in Yugoslavia. Description of carbon monoxide; Diagnosis of a female worker; Safety measures to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Clinical laboratory practice represents an essential part of clinical decision-making, as it influences 60-70% of medical decisions at all levels of health care. Results of biochemical laboratory tests (BLTs) have a key role in establishment of adequate diagnosis as well as in evaluation of treatment progress and outcome. The prevalence of drug-laboratory test interactions (DLTIs) is up to 43% of patients who had laboratory results influenced by drugs. Unrecognized DLTIs may lead to misinterpreted BLTs results, incorrect or delayed diagnosis, extra costs for unnecessary additional tests or inadequate therapy, as all may cause false clinical decisions. The significance of timely and adequate recognition of DLTIs is to prevent common clinical consequences such as incorrectly interpreted test results, delayed or non-treated condition due to erroneous diagnosis or unnecessary extra tests or therapy. Medical professionals should be educated that it is essential to obtain patient data about medications especially for the drugs used in the last 10 days before biological material collection. Our mini-review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state in this important domain of medical biochemistry with detailed analysis of the effect of drugs on BLTs and to give detailed information to medical specialists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart polymers such as Eudragit (ED) have shown potential applications in oral drug delivery and targeted release. Probucol (PB) is a lipophilic drug used for hypercholesterolemia and possesses desirable antidiabetic effects such as antioxidant and cell protective effects. PB is highly hydrophobic and has poor bioavailability with significant inter- and intra-patient absorption, limiting its clinical applications in diabetes. This study aimed to design and analyse new PB-ED formulations with or without the absorption-enhancer chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA). Sodium alginate-based microcapsules containing three different ED polymers (NM30D, RL30D and RS30D) were investigated with or without CDCA via scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXR), confocal microscopy, osmotic stability, mechanical properties, buoyancy, release profiles (pH: 7.4), thermal stability and antioxidant effects. The effects of microcapsules on pancreatic β-cell survival, function, inflammatory profile and PB cellular uptake were analysed. All microcapsules showed uniform morphology and surface topography with CDCA being distributed evenly throughout the microcapsules. Osmotic stability was significantly improved in PB-NM30D and PB-RL30D microcapsules (p < .01 and p < .05, respectively), and PB-NM30D microcapsules displayed low buoyancy (p < .01). CDCA improved PB-NM30D effects on pancreatic β-cell function and bioenergetics, which suggests potential application of PB-NM30D-CDCA in PB delivery and diabetes treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biocompatibility and effects on cells' bioactivity of developed pharmaceuticals are crucial properties, required to permit their safe delivery. Nanogel matrices offer a promising role in emerging pharmaceutics; however, it is crucial that they and their excipients do not demonstrate detrimental effects on the cells to which they interact. This study investigated the use of Teflon and the secondary bile acid deoxycholic acid in the formation of novel nanogel matrices. Each has properties which may be of benefit for the nanogels created and their use in the pharmaceutical industry. Rheological parameters and scanning electron microscopy studies were conducted. In order to assess the developed nanogels' impacts on cellular bioactivity, studies using Seahorse assays were conducted on three cell types, hepatic, muscle and pancreatic beta cells. Results demonstrated the addition of Teflon did not alter the morphological characteristics of resulting nanogels or the metabolic profiles of the cell lines. Interestingly, pancreatic beta cells highlighted the potential of Teflon to exert a protective profile from mitochondrial damage. Overall, the developed nanogels showed potentially promising profiles in certain studies conducted which may lead to future research. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]