Ivane S. Beritashvili’s doctrine of image-driven behavior was established in the late 1920s and finally extended in his books in English (1965;1971). It bears a strong resemblance to the concepts of purposive behavio...Ivane S. Beritashvili’s doctrine of image-driven behavior was established in the late 1920s and finally extended in his books in English (1965;1971). It bears a strong resemblance to the concepts of purposive behavior and “cognitive maps” developed in parallel by Edward C. Tolman (1932;1948) and significantly anticipated respective modern concepts. John O’Keefe and his disciples May-Britt Moser and Edvard I. Moser received the Nobel Prize in 2014 for their discoveries of cells that constitute a navigation system in the brain. The latter fact brings us to the pioneers of the study of the spatial orientation of animals that figuratively speaking, provided the giant’s shoulders on which O’Keefe and the Mosers stood to receive their award. Beritashvili and Tolman upheld the holistic and goal-directed nature of spatial behavior. A major contribution of Beritashvili to the science of animal behavior was the demonstration of the universality of learning following a single presentation of an object vitally important to the animal: either a food object or a noxious signal. Beritashvili showed that such “image-driven” behavior has a strong spatial component, i.e., the image is projected into a definite point in space. Thus, he came to maintain that there is a class of behavior that is image-driven that does not require a repetition of associations. Tolman made several significant contributions to the field of experimental psychology. He thought of learning as developing from bits of knowledge and cognitions about the environment and how the organism relates to it. He examined the role that reinforcement plays in the way that rats learn their way through complex mazes. These experiments eventually led to the theory of latent learning which describes learning that occurs in the absence of an obvious reward. Tolman also strongly advocated the theory that rats learn the place where they have been rewarded rather than the particular movements required to get there. To a great extent, Tolman’s work determined the direction of American psychology in the 1930s-1950s. The contribution of Beritashvili and Tolman, thus, is the groundwork of modern studies of spatial cognitive processes in human and nonhuman animals.展开更多
Liver regeneration(LR)following partial hepatectomy(PH)is a unique and complex physiological response that restores hepatic mass and function through tightly orchestrated cellular and molecular events.Traditionally vi...Liver regeneration(LR)following partial hepatectomy(PH)is a unique and complex physiological response that restores hepatic mass and function through tightly orchestrated cellular and molecular events.Traditionally viewed as a proliferation-driven process,LR is now understood to involve both hepatocyte hyperplasia and hypertrophy,triggered primarily by hemodynamic alterations such as increased portal pressure and shear stress.These promote LR through endothelial–hepatocyte communication via activation of Piezo1-a mechanosensitive ion channel highly expressed in vascular endothelial cells.This channel is considered one of the potential upstream activators of molecular cascades including the interleukin(IL)-6/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3,tumour necrosis factor-alpha/nuclear factor-kappa B,Wnt/β-catenin,Hippo/YAP,transforming growth factor-beta,and Notch pathways,which contribute variably to the proliferation,differentiation,or suppression of hepatic cells.Novel insights into the IL-22 and IL-33 signaling axes,bile acid and glutamine metabolism,and the role of intestinal microbiota are also presented as promising emerging targets.This review synthesizes current insights into the interplay between mechanical cues,key signaling pathways,and metabolic reprogramming that govern early regenerative responses.We explore the mechanisms dictating the balance between hyperplasia and hypertrophy,noting that hypertrophy predominates after minor resections,while proliferation is dominant in larger resections.Polyploidization emerges as a significant adaptive mechanism,contributing to hepatocyte survival and tissue remodeling.The importance of ductular reactions,microvascular adjustments,and extracellular matrix dynamics in lobular architecture remodeling is also highlighted.The study explores the occurrence of ductular reactions in both minor and major resections,particularly within the granulation tissue near dissection areas.The paper also examines structural remodeling in regenerated liver tissue,demonstrating ongoing transformations in hepatocyte morphology and sinusoidal architecture even months after PH,and emphasizing that the termination of liver mass regrowth does not equate to the cessation of LR.展开更多
Bruxism, characterized by involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, affects approximately 10% - 20% of adults globally and has significant implications for dental and systemic health. Emerging AI-driven diagnostic t...Bruxism, characterized by involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, affects approximately 10% - 20% of adults globally and has significant implications for dental and systemic health. Emerging AI-driven diagnostic tools have demonstrated a 25% improvement in identifying nocturnal bruxism compared to conventional methods. This study explores the etiology, pathogenesis, and treatment modalities of bruxism, integrating cutting-edge advancements like neuromodulation and personalized medicine. Furthermore, socioeconomic factors and access disparities are analyzed to propose comprehensive strategies for improving patient outcomes. Current management strategies include behavioral therapies, orthodontic appliances, pharmacological interventions, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical options. Emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, personalized medicine, and neuromodulation, are highlighted as promising advancements in bruxism diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the study underscores the socioeconomic and ethical dimensions of bruxism care, advocating for interdisciplinary collaboration, patient education, and equitable access to innovative treatments. This research aims to contribute to improved understanding and management of bruxism, enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.展开更多
In permanently uneven-aged forests, continuous ingrowth of recruitment into higher stand layers is a critical process for the formation and maintenance of differentiated stand structures. This study analyses the abund...In permanently uneven-aged forests, continuous ingrowth of recruitment into higher stand layers is a critical process for the formation and maintenance of differentiated stand structures. This study analyses the abundance and diversity of recruitment(diameter at breast high(DBH) 0.1–4 cm) across 241 research plots in 11 structurally differentiated Norway spruce(silver fir)-dominated forest stands distributed at altitudes between 500 and 1,440 m a.s.l. The influence of light conditions and lateral competition characteristics on the height increment and crown architecture of recruitment was investigated in detail for 352 Norway spruce and 361 silver fir trees. Light-related variables were confirmed to directly affect the recruitment distribution only to a limited extent. Under relatively low light conditions in montane stands, silver fir reached higher height increments than Norway spruce. The better adaptation of silver fir to shaded conditions was reflected also in its higher apical dominance ratio compared to Norway spruce. The height increment and apical dominance ratio of Norway spruce and silver fir recruitment were positively correlated with indirect radiation, DBH, and relative crown length(RCL), but not with lateral competition. These results confirm that the regulation of light conditions in permanently unevenaged stands is crucial for the growth dynamics of recruitment, as well as for the future proportions of Norway spruce and silver fir in mixed, structurally diverse stands.展开更多
BACKGROUND Obese patients(body mass index≥30 kg/m^(2))undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement(AVR)face increased surgical risks due to comorbidities.Partial upper sternotomy(PUS),a minimally invasive approach,ma...BACKGROUND Obese patients(body mass index≥30 kg/m^(2))undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement(AVR)face increased surgical risks due to comorbidities.Partial upper sternotomy(PUS),a minimally invasive approach,may reduce complications compared to full median sternotomy(FMS).We hypothesize that PUS improves outcomes over FMS in obese patients undergoing AVR.AIM To compare the efficacy and safety of PUS vs FMS in obese patients undergoing isolated AVR.METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA guidelines,searching PubMed,EMBASE,and Cochrane databases for observational studies comparing PUS vs FMS in obese patients undergoing AVR.Outcomes were analyzed using odds ratios(OR),mean differences(MD),95%confidence intervals(CI),I^(2)statistic,and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used for quality assessment.RESULTS Four observational studies involving 677 patients were analyzed.PUS reduced intensive care unit stay(MD-2.67 days,95%CI:-4.43 to-0.90,P=0.003,I^(2)=78%)but increased cardiopulmonary bypass time(MD 5.62 minutes,95%CI:-0.36 to 11.59,I^(2)=55%).No differences were observed in renal failure(OR 1.13,95%CI:0.63-2.94,I^(2)=0%),atrial fibrillation(OR 0.81,95%CI:0.43-1.54,I^(2)=30%),reexploration(OR 1.09,95%CI:0.48-2.47,I^(2)=0%),postoperative bleeding(OR 1.48,95%CI:0.53-4.15,I^(2)=60%),wound infection(OR 1.23,95%CI:0.70-2.14,I^(2)=0%),hospital stay(MD 0.51 days,95%CI:-4.13 to 5.15,I^(2)=90%),or cross-clamp time(MD 4.03 minutes,95%CI:-0.75 to 8.80,I^(2)=50%).CONCLUSION PUS is safe and effective for obese patients undergoing AVR,reducing intensive care unit stay and enhancing recovery,provided surgical expertise is available.展开更多
According to the minimal criteria of the International Society of Cellular Therapy, mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs) are a population of undifferentiated cells defined by their ability to adhere to plastic surfaces when c...According to the minimal criteria of the International Society of Cellular Therapy, mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs) are a population of undifferentiated cells defined by their ability to adhere to plastic surfaces when cultured under standard conditions, express a certain panel of phenotypic markers and can differentiate into osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic lineages when cultured in specific inducing media. In parallel with their major role as undifferentiated cell reserves, MSCs have immunomodulatory functions which are exerted by direct cell-to-cell contacts, secretion of cytokines and/or by a combination of both mechanisms. There are no convincing data about a principal difference in the profile of cytokines secreted by MSCs isolated from different tissue sources, although some papers report some quantitative but not qualitative differences in cytokine secretion. The present review focuses on the basic cytokines secreted by MSCs as described in the literature by which the MSCs exert immunodulatory effects. It should be pointed out that MSCs themselves are objects of cytokine regulation. Hypothetical mechanisms by which the MSCs exert their immunoregulatory effects are also discussed in this review. These mechanisms may either influence the target immune cells directly or indirectly by affecting the activities of predominantly dendritic cells. Chemokines are also discussed as participants in this process by recruiting cells of the immune systems and thus making them targets of immunosuppression. This review aims to present and discuss the published data and the personal experience of the authors regarding cytokines secreted by MSCs and their effects on the cells of the immune system.展开更多
There has been a significant advance in the treatment of chronic Hepatitis B virus （HBV） infection and the following drugs were approved for therapy： Conventional interferon （IFN）, pegylated interferon alfa-2a （...There has been a significant advance in the treatment of chronic Hepatitis B virus （HBV） infection and the following drugs were approved for therapy： Conventional interferon （IFN）, pegylated interferon alfa-2a （PEG IFN α2a）, lamivudine, adefovir and entecavir. Compared to nucleoside analogues IFN induces higher rates of sustained remission and HBsAg loss. Conventional TFN in lower doses （1, 5-3 MIU） tiw for 4-6 mo has similar efficacy in comparison to ＂standard IFN therapy＂. Longer IFN treatment is a significant factor for longterm remission in HBeAg-negative CHB, but the higher actual IFN dose is not such a factor. PEG IFN is superior to conventional IFN. There is no significant difference between PEG IFN α2a at doses 90 mcg/wk and 180 mcg/wk in HBeAg-positive patients. These results provide a rational for further clinical trials with lower doses PEG IFN α2a given in prolonged course as maintenance or intermittent treatment. Serious new problems arose after the introduction of nucleoside/nucleotide analogues in clinical practice. The most important ones are drugresistance and the high rates of relapse after treatment discontinuation. Therapy should only be recommended if the expected benefit exceeds significantly the abstain from treatment. The choice of therapy should take into account the patient＇s age, co-morbidity, severity of liver disease and the risk of drug-resistance. New antivirals significantly suppress HBV-replication, but have no effect on cccDNA in hepatocytes, and after the treatment discontinuation viral relapses occurs. At the present level of knowledge it is impossible ＂to eradicate the virus＂ The realistic treatment goal is to achieve durable response by clearance of HBeAg, sustained decrease of serum HBV DNA levels, normalization of ALT, improvement of liver histology and stopping of liver fibrogenesis. The competition between IFN based therapy and nucleoside or nucleotide analogues still remains. IFN can cure the liver disease while nucleotide analogues only suppress the viral replication during therapy and can reduce the liver fibrosis. Treatment should be prolonged for 24-mo or longer by using maintenance or intermittent treatment course with the lowest effective IFN and PEG IFN doses. Nucleoside/nucleotide analogues are a promising treatment option, but additional data for treatment duration and long-term post-treatment outcome are necessary.展开更多
AIM To investigate T-cell activation, the percentage of peripheral T regulatory cells(Tregs), Th17 cells and the circulating cytokine profile in systemic sclerosis(SSc).METHODS We enrolled a total of 24 SSc patients a...AIM To investigate T-cell activation, the percentage of peripheral T regulatory cells(Tregs), Th17 cells and the circulating cytokine profile in systemic sclerosis(SSc).METHODS We enrolled a total of 24 SSc patients and 16 healthy controls in the study and divided the patients as having diffuse cutaneous SSc(dc SSc, n = 13) or limited cutaneous SSc(lc SSc, n = 11). We performed a further subdivision of the patients regarding the stage of the disease-early, intermediate or late. Peripheral venous blood samples were collected from all subjects. We performed flow cytometric analysis of the activationcapacity of T-lymphocytes upon stimulation with PHA-M and of the percentage of peripheral Tregs and Th17 cells in both patients and healthy controls. We used ELISA to quantitate serum levels of human interleukin(IL)-6, IL-10, tissue growth factor-β1(TGF-β1), and IL-17 A.RESULTS We identified a decreased percentage of CD3+CD69+ cells in PHA-stimulated samples from SSc patients in comparison with healthy controls(13.35% ± 2.90% vs 37.03% ± 2.33%, P < 0.001). However, we did not establish a correlation between the down-regulated CD3+CD69+ cells and the clinical subset, nor regarding the stage of the disease. The activated CD4+CD25+ peripheral lymphocytes were represented in decreased percentage in patients when compared to controls(6.30% ± 0.68% vs 9.36% ± 1.08%, P = 0.016). Regarding the forms of the disease, dc SSc patients demonstrated lower frequency of CD4+CD25+ T cells against healthy subjects(5.95% ± 0.89% vs 9.36% ± 1.08%, P = 0.025). With regard to Th17 cells, our patients demonstrated increased percentage in comparison with controls(18.13% ± 1.55% vs 13.73% ± 1.21%, P = 0.031). We detected up-regulated Th17 cells within the lc SSc subset against controls(20.46% ± 2.41% vs 13.73% ± 1.21%, P = 0.025), nevertheless no difference was found between dc SSc and lc SSc patients. Flow cytometric analysis revealed an increased percentage of CD4+CD25-Foxp3+ in dc SSc patients compared to controls(10.94% ± 1.65% vs 6.88% ± 0.91, P = 0.032). Regarding the peripheral cytokine profile, we detected raised levels of IL-6 [2.10(1.05-4.60) pg/m L vs 0.00 pg/m L, P < 0.001], TGF-β1(19.94 ± 3.35 ng/m L vs 10.03 ± 2.25 ng/m L, P = 0.02), IL-10(2.83 ± 0.44 pg/m L vs 0.68 ± 0.51 pg/m L, P = 0.008), and IL-17 A [6.30(2.50-15.60) pg/m L vs 0(0.00-0.05) pg/m L, P < 0.001] in patients when compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, we found increased circulating IL-10, TGF-β, IL-6 and IL-17 A in the lc SSc subset vs control subjects, as it follows: IL-10(3.32 ± 0.59 pg/m L vs 0.68 ± 0.51 pg/m L, P = 0.003), TGF-β1(22.82 ± 4.99 ng/m L vs 10.03 ± 2.25 ng/m L, P = 0.031), IL-6 [2.08(1.51-4.69) pg/m L vs 0.00 pg/m L, P < 0.001], and IL-17 A [14.50(8.55-41.65) pg/m L vs 0.00(0.00-0.05) pg/m L, P < 0.001]. Furthermore, circulating IL-17 A was higher in lc SSc as opposed to dc SSc subset(31.99 ± 13.29 pg/m L vs 7.14 ± 3.01 pg/m L, P = 0.008). Within the dc SSc subset, raised levels of IL-17 A and IL-6 were detected vs healthy controls: IL-17 A [2.60(0.45-9.80) pg/m L vs 0.00(0.00-0.05) pg/m L, P < 0.001], IL-6 [2.80(1.03-7.23) pg/m L vs 0.00 pg/m L, P < 0.001]. Regarding the stages of the disease, TGF-β1 serum levels were increased in early stage against late stage, independently from the SSc phenotype(30.03 ± 4.59 ng/m L vs 13.08 ± 4.50 ng/m L, P = 0.017).CONCLUSION It is likely that the altered percentage of Th17 and CD4+CD25-Fox P3+ cells along with the peripheral cytokine profile in patients with SSc may play a key role in the pathogenesis of the disease.展开更多
BACKGROUND The connection between inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)and colorectal cancer(CRC)is well-established,as persistent intestinal inflammation plays a substantial role in both disorders.Cytokines may further inf...BACKGROUND The connection between inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)and colorectal cancer(CRC)is well-established,as persistent intestinal inflammation plays a substantial role in both disorders.Cytokines may further influence the inflammation and the carcinogenesis process.AIM To compare cytokine patterns of active IBD patients with early and advanced CRC.METHODS Choosing a panel of cytokines crucial for Th17/Treg differentiation and behavior,in colon specimens,as mRNA biomarkers,and their serum protein levels.RESULTS We found a significant difference between higher gene expression of FoxP3,TGFb1,IL-10,and IL-23,and approximately equal level of IL-6 in CRC patients in comparison with IBD patients.After stratification of CRC patients,we found a significant difference in FoxP3,IL-10,IL-23,and IL-17A mRNA in early cases compared to IBD,and IL-23 alone in advanced CRC.The protein levels of the cytokines were significantly higher in CRC patients compared to IBD patients.CONCLUSION Our findings showed that IL-6 upregulation is essential for both IBD and CRC development until the upregulation of other Th17/Treg related genes(TGFb1,IL-10,IL-23,and transcription factor FoxP3)is a crucial primarily for CRC development.The significantly upregulated IL-6 could be a potential drug target for IBD and prevention of CRC development as well.展开更多
AIMTo make efficacy and safety comparison of telbivudine-raodmap and tenofovir-roadmap in hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. METHODSThis was the first prospective, randomised, t...AIMTo make efficacy and safety comparison of telbivudine-raodmap and tenofovir-roadmap in hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. METHODSThis was the first prospective, randomised, two-arm, open-label, non-inferiority study in HBeAg-negative CHB patients that compared telbivudine and tenofovir administered as per roadmap concept. Patients were treated up to 24 wk and, depending on virologic response, continued the same therapy or received add-on therapy up to 104 wk. Eligible patients received an additional 52 wk of treatment in the extension period (i.e., up to 156 wk). Patients who developed virologic breakthrough (VB) while on monotherapy also received add-on therapy. The primary efficacy endpoint was the rate of patients achieving hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA RESULTSA total of 241 patients were randomised. Non-inferiority of telbivudine arm to tenofovir arm was demonstrated at week 52 (± 7 d window), with over 91% of patients in each treatment arm achieving HBV DNA level CONCLUSIONEfficacy was shown for both telbivudine-roadmap and tenofovir-roadmap regimens in HBeAg-negative CHB patients over 156 wk. Telbivudine arm was associated with renal improvement.展开更多
Geochemical, mineralogical, and micromorphologieal characteristics of soils and their relevant parent rocks including loess, ignimbrite, sandstone and limestone were investigated to identify the soil-parent material u...Geochemical, mineralogical, and micromorphologieal characteristics of soils and their relevant parent rocks including loess, ignimbrite, sandstone and limestone were investigated to identify the soil-parent material uniformity and the weathering degree of soils in Golestan Province, northern Iran. Highly developed Caleixerolls and moderately developed Haploxerepts were formed on loess and limestone, respectively. In contrast, the soils formed on ignimbrite and sandstone were non- developed Entisols. Illite was the dominant clay mineral found in ignimbrite and sandstone in both the A horizon and parent material. In loess derived soils however, smectite was dominant especially in the Bt horizon compared to its parent material indicating partly to its pedogenic formation. In limestone, illite and vermiculite were dominant both in the A and C horizons. Ti/Zr ratio proved that the studied soils were closely related to their underlying parent materials geochemically. Chemical index of alteration （CIA）, micromorphological index of soil development （MISECA）, smectite/illite＋chlorite ratio and magnetic susceptibility were applied to investigate the degree of soil development. Results showed that the most and the least developed soils were those formed on loess deposits and limestone,respectively. Application of the different geochemical and pedogenetic approaches was proved to be useful in identifying the relevance of soils to their underlying parent materials and also their degree of development.展开更多
The notions of M-hemirings and L-fuzzy left h-ideals with operators in M-hemirings are introduced, and some properties are investigated. Given an L-fuzzy left h-ideal with operators, a new L-fuzzy left h-ideal with op...The notions of M-hemirings and L-fuzzy left h-ideals with operators in M-hemirings are introduced, and some properties are investigated. Given an L-fuzzy left h-ideal with operators, a new L-fuzzy left h-ideal with operators is established. Using a collection of left M-h-ideals, L-fuzzy left h-ideals with operators are constructed. Moreover, the concept of M-Notherian M-hemiring is introduced and its characterization is given.展开更多
Diabetes mellitus(DM) is the third most common noninfectious disease leading to early disability and high mortality. Moreover, the number of patients is growing every year. The main symptom of DM is hyperglycemia. Inc...Diabetes mellitus(DM) is the third most common noninfectious disease leading to early disability and high mortality. Moreover, the number of patients is growing every year. The main symptom of DM is hyperglycemia. Increased levels of blood glucose activate polyol, hexosamine, and protein kinase metabolic pathways cause the intensification of non-enzymatic glycosylation and nitration of macromolecules. This, in turn, leads to the development of oxidative and nitrative stresses and secondary complications, such as different kinds of microand macroangiopathies. Metabolic disorders caused by insulin deficiency in diabetes significantly impede the functioning of a homeostasis system, which change the physical, biochemical, morphological, and functional properties of blood cells. As a result, the oxygen-transport function of red blood cells(RBCs), rheological properties of the blood, and functions of immunocompetent cells as well as the process of apoptosis are primarily affected. Modern pharmacotherapy focuses on the search for new preparations that aim to decrease blood glucose levels. Undesirable side effects and adverse reactions caused by synthetic medicines led to the search and investigation of new preparations of natural origin. Medicinal mushrooms play an important role among such new preparations. They are a source of a large number of high-and lowmolecular compounds with pronounced biological effects. Our investigations show pronounced hypoglycemic and anti-anemic action of submerged cultivated mycelium powder of medicinal mushrooms Agaricus brasiliensis(A. brasiliensis) and Ganoderma lucidum(G. lucidum) on streptozotocin-induced DM in rats. Also, we showed that mycelium powders have membrane protective properties as evidenced by the redistribution of RBC populations towards the growth of full functional cell numbers. Normalization of parameters of leukocyte formula and suppression of apoptosis of white blood cells in diabeticrats treated with A. brasiliensis and G. lucidum mycelia indicates pronounced positive effects of these strains of mushrooms. Thus, the use of medicinal mushrooms for treatment of DM and in prevention development of its secondary complications might be a new effective approach of this disease's cure. This article is aimed at summarizing and analyzing the literature data and basic achievements concerning DM type 1 treatment using medicinal mushrooms and showing the results obtained in our research.展开更多
The article considers the variability of Nenskra and Nakra River basins glaciers’ parameters in the years of 1911-2014. Nenskra and Nakra River basins are located on the southern slope of the Great Caucasus, between ...The article considers the variability of Nenskra and Nakra River basins glaciers’ parameters in the years of 1911-2014. Nenskra and Nakra River basins are located on the southern slope of the Great Caucasus, between the Kharikhra, Shdavleri and Tsalgmili ranges, in Georgia, in particular in the Enguri River basin. In our research we used the catalogue of the glaciers of Georgia compiled by K. Podozerskiy in 1911. We also used the military topographic maps with the scale of 1:25,000 and 1:50,000 drawn up in 1960 (in former Soviet Union), where there are the glaciers mapped in detail and the ends of their ice tongues on the southern slope of Great Caucasus of those times. We also used the remote sensing method, which is the best modern way for the study of the dynamics of glaciers and this method is remarkable by a quick obtaining of results. The spectral images of the Landsat L8 OLI/TIRS (Operational Land Imager and Thermal Infrared Sensor) (USGS) received from the “Landsat” artificial satellite are the necessary materials for our study. We also used the field survey materials of 2014 (GPS data). The latest statistical information is also given about the glaciers located in the individual river basins;their morphological types, exposition and the dynamics are considered according to the individual years.展开更多
We observed a sustained viral response(SVR) of ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, dasabuvir and ribavirin therapy, for 12 wk, in two cases with compensated liver cirrhosis and fully destroyed early hepatocellular carc...We observed a sustained viral response(SVR) of ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, dasabuvir and ribavirin therapy, for 12 wk, in two cases with compensated liver cirrhosis and fully destroyed early hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC). Patients were infected with hepatitis C virus(HCV) genotype 1b and were previous null responders/relapsers to interferon-alpha/ribavirin(IFN/RBV). There was a rapid suppression of HCV RNA to undetectable levels within the first two treatment weeks. SVR was achieved even after marked reduction of the RBV dose. The treatment was well tolerated. Both subjects experienced worsening of liver disease during therapy, in different patterns: severe, transient, predominantly direct hyperbilirubinemia without cytolysis(case 1) or progressive increase of aminotransferases(grade 4) without severe hyperbilirubinemia(case 2).Adverse events spontaneously resolved. The patients remained in a good clinical condition without hepatic decompensation. There was no re-occurrence of HCC. This is the first report for treatment of HCV cirrhosis after complete HCC destruction.展开更多
Recent advances in our understanding of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)and the associated acute respiratory distress syndrome might approximate the cytokine release syndrome of severe immune-mediated disease.Import...Recent advances in our understanding of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)and the associated acute respiratory distress syndrome might approximate the cytokine release syndrome of severe immune-mediated disease.Importantly,this presumption provides the rationale for utilization of therapy,until recently reserved mostly for autoimmune diseases(ADs),in the management of COVID-19 hyperinflammation condition and has led to an extensive discussion for the potential benefits and detriments of immunosuppression.Our paper intends to examine the available recommendations,complexities in diagnosis and management when dealing with patients with ADs amidst the COVID-19 crisis.Mimicking a flare of an underlying AD,overlapping pathological lung patterns,probability of higher rates of false-positive antibody test,and lack of concrete data are only a part of the detrimental and specific characteristics of COVID-19 outbreak among the population with ADs.The administration of pharmaceutical therapy should not undermine the physical and psychological status of the patient with the maximum utilization of telemedicine.Researchers and clinicians should be vigilant for upcoming research for insight and perspective to fine-tune the clinical guidelines and practice and to weigh the potential benefits and detrimental effects of the applied immunomodulating therapy.展开更多
On the example of copper fulvate, it is discussed the method of calculation of stability constants of fulvic complexes. At pH = 8, the complex formation of copper（ll） ions with fulvic acids was studied by the solubi...On the example of copper fulvate, it is discussed the method of calculation of stability constants of fulvic complexes. At pH = 8, the complex formation of copper（ll） ions with fulvic acids was studied by the solubility method. Fulvic acids were separated from the river Mtkvari by the adsorption-chromotographic method. The charcoal （BAU, Russia） was used as a sorbent. The suspension of copper（If） hydroxide was used as the solid phase, on which was added the increasing quantity of standard solution of fulvic acids. In diluted solutions, at pH = 8 the dominant form of copper（lI） is copper dihydroxo complex Cu（OH）^zO. It was established that in the Cu（OH）2 （solid）-Cu（OH）^20 （solution）-FA^2-H20 system, dominates copper dyhydroxo fulvate complex with the structure 1：1, [Cu（OH）2FA]^2. The average stability constant of copper dyhydroxo fulvate complex was calculated based on experimental data fl [Cu（OH）2FAJ^2 = 4.5× l0^5.展开更多
<strong>Background:</strong> Poor treatment of burns can lead to sepsis and even death. Especially promising is the use of the method of fluorescence spectroscopy for its diagnostics. <strong>The aim...<strong>Background:</strong> Poor treatment of burns can lead to sepsis and even death. Especially promising is the use of the method of fluorescence spectroscopy for its diagnostics. <strong>The aim of the research</strong> is to create a pathogenetic concept as the basis of a diagnostic and treatment model of purulent-inflammatory diseases and sepsis. <strong>Material and methods:</strong> The study lasted from 2001 to 2019 and included 4 stages. The experimental base of luminescent research at all stages was the luminescence laboratory of the Department of Experimental Physics of the Ivan Franko National University of Lviv. The study was performed by using optical monochromators MDR-2 and MDR-12. The excitation of the blood serum was performed with light with a wavelength of 280 nm, which corresponds to the glow region of human serum albumin. <strong>Results: </strong>The main indicators, used for the analysis, were the fluorescence intensity (<em>I</em><sub><em>F</em></sub>) and the position of the maximum fluorescence band (<em>λ</em><sub>max</sub>). The object of the study was samples of the blood serum of patients of the main and control groups. In the case of the presence of endogenous intoxication in the body, albumin binding centers are blocked by the products of bacterial metabolism and therefore such “pathological” albumin is unable to perform its functions, including transport and detoxification. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> The pathogenetic concept as the basis of the diagnostic and treating model of purulent-inflammatory diseases and sepsis was devised. In particular, the important role of albumin solution infusion in the treatment of the above-mentioned diseases was established.展开更多
Karst groundwater is the major natural resource of drinking water for many countries in the world. Especially in karstic regions, karst water requirements for settlements are provided from karst aquifers. Also, we sho...Karst groundwater is the major natural resource of drinking water for many countries in the world. Especially in karstic regions, karst water requirements for settlements are provided from karst aquifers. Also, we should consider, that karst groundwater is becoming more and more valuable for drinking water supply. Thus, karst groundwater quality and permanent ecological monitoring are very important for populations. Moreover, if we consider that the karst landscape is the extremely sensitive system towards anthropogenic activities, since exaclty the anthropogenic activities largely identify the karst water pollution-turbidity causing factors. This paper presents a new study regarding the quality of the karst groundwater of the study area, which contains important resource of drinking water. In the mentioned study, 12 water samples were collected from different locations of the 4 main karst springs (Krikhula, Dolabistavi, Kidobana and Sakishore) during the spring and summer of 2014 and 2015 years. The main aim was to identify chemical compositions (Ni, Ag, Co, Cd, Zn, Pb, Al, Mg, Fe, F, Cu), and also, it was important to detect Escherichia coli (E. coli). Our research regarding all these chemical compositions shows that all the values are low and under the environmental limit according to the Georgian standards. We measured chemical parameters of all these samples by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) in the chemical laboratory of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, country of Georgia.展开更多
文摘Ivane S. Beritashvili’s doctrine of image-driven behavior was established in the late 1920s and finally extended in his books in English (1965;1971). It bears a strong resemblance to the concepts of purposive behavior and “cognitive maps” developed in parallel by Edward C. Tolman (1932;1948) and significantly anticipated respective modern concepts. John O’Keefe and his disciples May-Britt Moser and Edvard I. Moser received the Nobel Prize in 2014 for their discoveries of cells that constitute a navigation system in the brain. The latter fact brings us to the pioneers of the study of the spatial orientation of animals that figuratively speaking, provided the giant’s shoulders on which O’Keefe and the Mosers stood to receive their award. Beritashvili and Tolman upheld the holistic and goal-directed nature of spatial behavior. A major contribution of Beritashvili to the science of animal behavior was the demonstration of the universality of learning following a single presentation of an object vitally important to the animal: either a food object or a noxious signal. Beritashvili showed that such “image-driven” behavior has a strong spatial component, i.e., the image is projected into a definite point in space. Thus, he came to maintain that there is a class of behavior that is image-driven that does not require a repetition of associations. Tolman made several significant contributions to the field of experimental psychology. He thought of learning as developing from bits of knowledge and cognitions about the environment and how the organism relates to it. He examined the role that reinforcement plays in the way that rats learn their way through complex mazes. These experiments eventually led to the theory of latent learning which describes learning that occurs in the absence of an obvious reward. Tolman also strongly advocated the theory that rats learn the place where they have been rewarded rather than the particular movements required to get there. To a great extent, Tolman’s work determined the direction of American psychology in the 1930s-1950s. The contribution of Beritashvili and Tolman, thus, is the groundwork of modern studies of spatial cognitive processes in human and nonhuman animals.
文摘Liver regeneration(LR)following partial hepatectomy(PH)is a unique and complex physiological response that restores hepatic mass and function through tightly orchestrated cellular and molecular events.Traditionally viewed as a proliferation-driven process,LR is now understood to involve both hepatocyte hyperplasia and hypertrophy,triggered primarily by hemodynamic alterations such as increased portal pressure and shear stress.These promote LR through endothelial–hepatocyte communication via activation of Piezo1-a mechanosensitive ion channel highly expressed in vascular endothelial cells.This channel is considered one of the potential upstream activators of molecular cascades including the interleukin(IL)-6/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3,tumour necrosis factor-alpha/nuclear factor-kappa B,Wnt/β-catenin,Hippo/YAP,transforming growth factor-beta,and Notch pathways,which contribute variably to the proliferation,differentiation,or suppression of hepatic cells.Novel insights into the IL-22 and IL-33 signaling axes,bile acid and glutamine metabolism,and the role of intestinal microbiota are also presented as promising emerging targets.This review synthesizes current insights into the interplay between mechanical cues,key signaling pathways,and metabolic reprogramming that govern early regenerative responses.We explore the mechanisms dictating the balance between hyperplasia and hypertrophy,noting that hypertrophy predominates after minor resections,while proliferation is dominant in larger resections.Polyploidization emerges as a significant adaptive mechanism,contributing to hepatocyte survival and tissue remodeling.The importance of ductular reactions,microvascular adjustments,and extracellular matrix dynamics in lobular architecture remodeling is also highlighted.The study explores the occurrence of ductular reactions in both minor and major resections,particularly within the granulation tissue near dissection areas.The paper also examines structural remodeling in regenerated liver tissue,demonstrating ongoing transformations in hepatocyte morphology and sinusoidal architecture even months after PH,and emphasizing that the termination of liver mass regrowth does not equate to the cessation of LR.
文摘Bruxism, characterized by involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, affects approximately 10% - 20% of adults globally and has significant implications for dental and systemic health. Emerging AI-driven diagnostic tools have demonstrated a 25% improvement in identifying nocturnal bruxism compared to conventional methods. This study explores the etiology, pathogenesis, and treatment modalities of bruxism, integrating cutting-edge advancements like neuromodulation and personalized medicine. Furthermore, socioeconomic factors and access disparities are analyzed to propose comprehensive strategies for improving patient outcomes. Current management strategies include behavioral therapies, orthodontic appliances, pharmacological interventions, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical options. Emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, personalized medicine, and neuromodulation, are highlighted as promising advancements in bruxism diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the study underscores the socioeconomic and ethical dimensions of bruxism care, advocating for interdisciplinary collaboration, patient education, and equitable access to innovative treatments. This research aims to contribute to improved understanding and management of bruxism, enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.
基金supported by the Scientific Grant Agency of Ministry of Education,Science,Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic (project VEGA 1/0183/25)by the Slovak Research and Development Agency under the Contract No. APVV-21-0199 and APVV-19-0183
文摘In permanently uneven-aged forests, continuous ingrowth of recruitment into higher stand layers is a critical process for the formation and maintenance of differentiated stand structures. This study analyses the abundance and diversity of recruitment(diameter at breast high(DBH) 0.1–4 cm) across 241 research plots in 11 structurally differentiated Norway spruce(silver fir)-dominated forest stands distributed at altitudes between 500 and 1,440 m a.s.l. The influence of light conditions and lateral competition characteristics on the height increment and crown architecture of recruitment was investigated in detail for 352 Norway spruce and 361 silver fir trees. Light-related variables were confirmed to directly affect the recruitment distribution only to a limited extent. Under relatively low light conditions in montane stands, silver fir reached higher height increments than Norway spruce. The better adaptation of silver fir to shaded conditions was reflected also in its higher apical dominance ratio compared to Norway spruce. The height increment and apical dominance ratio of Norway spruce and silver fir recruitment were positively correlated with indirect radiation, DBH, and relative crown length(RCL), but not with lateral competition. These results confirm that the regulation of light conditions in permanently unevenaged stands is crucial for the growth dynamics of recruitment, as well as for the future proportions of Norway spruce and silver fir in mixed, structurally diverse stands.
文摘BACKGROUND Obese patients(body mass index≥30 kg/m^(2))undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement(AVR)face increased surgical risks due to comorbidities.Partial upper sternotomy(PUS),a minimally invasive approach,may reduce complications compared to full median sternotomy(FMS).We hypothesize that PUS improves outcomes over FMS in obese patients undergoing AVR.AIM To compare the efficacy and safety of PUS vs FMS in obese patients undergoing isolated AVR.METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA guidelines,searching PubMed,EMBASE,and Cochrane databases for observational studies comparing PUS vs FMS in obese patients undergoing AVR.Outcomes were analyzed using odds ratios(OR),mean differences(MD),95%confidence intervals(CI),I^(2)statistic,and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used for quality assessment.RESULTS Four observational studies involving 677 patients were analyzed.PUS reduced intensive care unit stay(MD-2.67 days,95%CI:-4.43 to-0.90,P=0.003,I^(2)=78%)but increased cardiopulmonary bypass time(MD 5.62 minutes,95%CI:-0.36 to 11.59,I^(2)=55%).No differences were observed in renal failure(OR 1.13,95%CI:0.63-2.94,I^(2)=0%),atrial fibrillation(OR 0.81,95%CI:0.43-1.54,I^(2)=30%),reexploration(OR 1.09,95%CI:0.48-2.47,I^(2)=0%),postoperative bleeding(OR 1.48,95%CI:0.53-4.15,I^(2)=60%),wound infection(OR 1.23,95%CI:0.70-2.14,I^(2)=0%),hospital stay(MD 0.51 days,95%CI:-4.13 to 5.15,I^(2)=90%),or cross-clamp time(MD 4.03 minutes,95%CI:-0.75 to 8.80,I^(2)=50%).CONCLUSION PUS is safe and effective for obese patients undergoing AVR,reducing intensive care unit stay and enhancing recovery,provided surgical expertise is available.
文摘According to the minimal criteria of the International Society of Cellular Therapy, mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs) are a population of undifferentiated cells defined by their ability to adhere to plastic surfaces when cultured under standard conditions, express a certain panel of phenotypic markers and can differentiate into osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic lineages when cultured in specific inducing media. In parallel with their major role as undifferentiated cell reserves, MSCs have immunomodulatory functions which are exerted by direct cell-to-cell contacts, secretion of cytokines and/or by a combination of both mechanisms. There are no convincing data about a principal difference in the profile of cytokines secreted by MSCs isolated from different tissue sources, although some papers report some quantitative but not qualitative differences in cytokine secretion. The present review focuses on the basic cytokines secreted by MSCs as described in the literature by which the MSCs exert immunodulatory effects. It should be pointed out that MSCs themselves are objects of cytokine regulation. Hypothetical mechanisms by which the MSCs exert their immunoregulatory effects are also discussed in this review. These mechanisms may either influence the target immune cells directly or indirectly by affecting the activities of predominantly dendritic cells. Chemokines are also discussed as participants in this process by recruiting cells of the immune systems and thus making them targets of immunosuppression. This review aims to present and discuss the published data and the personal experience of the authors regarding cytokines secreted by MSCs and their effects on the cells of the immune system.
文摘There has been a significant advance in the treatment of chronic Hepatitis B virus （HBV） infection and the following drugs were approved for therapy： Conventional interferon （IFN）, pegylated interferon alfa-2a （PEG IFN α2a）, lamivudine, adefovir and entecavir. Compared to nucleoside analogues IFN induces higher rates of sustained remission and HBsAg loss. Conventional TFN in lower doses （1, 5-3 MIU） tiw for 4-6 mo has similar efficacy in comparison to ＂standard IFN therapy＂. Longer IFN treatment is a significant factor for longterm remission in HBeAg-negative CHB, but the higher actual IFN dose is not such a factor. PEG IFN is superior to conventional IFN. There is no significant difference between PEG IFN α2a at doses 90 mcg/wk and 180 mcg/wk in HBeAg-positive patients. These results provide a rational for further clinical trials with lower doses PEG IFN α2a given in prolonged course as maintenance or intermittent treatment. Serious new problems arose after the introduction of nucleoside/nucleotide analogues in clinical practice. The most important ones are drugresistance and the high rates of relapse after treatment discontinuation. Therapy should only be recommended if the expected benefit exceeds significantly the abstain from treatment. The choice of therapy should take into account the patient＇s age, co-morbidity, severity of liver disease and the risk of drug-resistance. New antivirals significantly suppress HBV-replication, but have no effect on cccDNA in hepatocytes, and after the treatment discontinuation viral relapses occurs. At the present level of knowledge it is impossible ＂to eradicate the virus＂ The realistic treatment goal is to achieve durable response by clearance of HBeAg, sustained decrease of serum HBV DNA levels, normalization of ALT, improvement of liver histology and stopping of liver fibrogenesis. The competition between IFN based therapy and nucleoside or nucleotide analogues still remains. IFN can cure the liver disease while nucleotide analogues only suppress the viral replication during therapy and can reduce the liver fibrosis. Treatment should be prolonged for 24-mo or longer by using maintenance or intermittent treatment course with the lowest effective IFN and PEG IFN doses. Nucleoside/nucleotide analogues are a promising treatment option, but additional data for treatment duration and long-term post-treatment outcome are necessary.
文摘AIM To investigate T-cell activation, the percentage of peripheral T regulatory cells(Tregs), Th17 cells and the circulating cytokine profile in systemic sclerosis(SSc).METHODS We enrolled a total of 24 SSc patients and 16 healthy controls in the study and divided the patients as having diffuse cutaneous SSc(dc SSc, n = 13) or limited cutaneous SSc(lc SSc, n = 11). We performed a further subdivision of the patients regarding the stage of the disease-early, intermediate or late. Peripheral venous blood samples were collected from all subjects. We performed flow cytometric analysis of the activationcapacity of T-lymphocytes upon stimulation with PHA-M and of the percentage of peripheral Tregs and Th17 cells in both patients and healthy controls. We used ELISA to quantitate serum levels of human interleukin(IL)-6, IL-10, tissue growth factor-β1(TGF-β1), and IL-17 A.RESULTS We identified a decreased percentage of CD3+CD69+ cells in PHA-stimulated samples from SSc patients in comparison with healthy controls(13.35% ± 2.90% vs 37.03% ± 2.33%, P < 0.001). However, we did not establish a correlation between the down-regulated CD3+CD69+ cells and the clinical subset, nor regarding the stage of the disease. The activated CD4+CD25+ peripheral lymphocytes were represented in decreased percentage in patients when compared to controls(6.30% ± 0.68% vs 9.36% ± 1.08%, P = 0.016). Regarding the forms of the disease, dc SSc patients demonstrated lower frequency of CD4+CD25+ T cells against healthy subjects(5.95% ± 0.89% vs 9.36% ± 1.08%, P = 0.025). With regard to Th17 cells, our patients demonstrated increased percentage in comparison with controls(18.13% ± 1.55% vs 13.73% ± 1.21%, P = 0.031). We detected up-regulated Th17 cells within the lc SSc subset against controls(20.46% ± 2.41% vs 13.73% ± 1.21%, P = 0.025), nevertheless no difference was found between dc SSc and lc SSc patients. Flow cytometric analysis revealed an increased percentage of CD4+CD25-Foxp3+ in dc SSc patients compared to controls(10.94% ± 1.65% vs 6.88% ± 0.91, P = 0.032). Regarding the peripheral cytokine profile, we detected raised levels of IL-6 [2.10(1.05-4.60) pg/m L vs 0.00 pg/m L, P < 0.001], TGF-β1(19.94 ± 3.35 ng/m L vs 10.03 ± 2.25 ng/m L, P = 0.02), IL-10(2.83 ± 0.44 pg/m L vs 0.68 ± 0.51 pg/m L, P = 0.008), and IL-17 A [6.30(2.50-15.60) pg/m L vs 0(0.00-0.05) pg/m L, P < 0.001] in patients when compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, we found increased circulating IL-10, TGF-β, IL-6 and IL-17 A in the lc SSc subset vs control subjects, as it follows: IL-10(3.32 ± 0.59 pg/m L vs 0.68 ± 0.51 pg/m L, P = 0.003), TGF-β1(22.82 ± 4.99 ng/m L vs 10.03 ± 2.25 ng/m L, P = 0.031), IL-6 [2.08(1.51-4.69) pg/m L vs 0.00 pg/m L, P < 0.001], and IL-17 A [14.50(8.55-41.65) pg/m L vs 0.00(0.00-0.05) pg/m L, P < 0.001]. Furthermore, circulating IL-17 A was higher in lc SSc as opposed to dc SSc subset(31.99 ± 13.29 pg/m L vs 7.14 ± 3.01 pg/m L, P = 0.008). Within the dc SSc subset, raised levels of IL-17 A and IL-6 were detected vs healthy controls: IL-17 A [2.60(0.45-9.80) pg/m L vs 0.00(0.00-0.05) pg/m L, P < 0.001], IL-6 [2.80(1.03-7.23) pg/m L vs 0.00 pg/m L, P < 0.001]. Regarding the stages of the disease, TGF-β1 serum levels were increased in early stage against late stage, independently from the SSc phenotype(30.03 ± 4.59 ng/m L vs 13.08 ± 4.50 ng/m L, P = 0.017).CONCLUSION It is likely that the altered percentage of Th17 and CD4+CD25-Fox P3+ cells along with the peripheral cytokine profile in patients with SSc may play a key role in the pathogenesis of the disease.
基金Supported by the Medical University of Sofia,No.22.2012-2013Trakia University of Stara Zagora,No.1.2016 and No.2.2017.
文摘BACKGROUND The connection between inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)and colorectal cancer(CRC)is well-established,as persistent intestinal inflammation plays a substantial role in both disorders.Cytokines may further influence the inflammation and the carcinogenesis process.AIM To compare cytokine patterns of active IBD patients with early and advanced CRC.METHODS Choosing a panel of cytokines crucial for Th17/Treg differentiation and behavior,in colon specimens,as mRNA biomarkers,and their serum protein levels.RESULTS We found a significant difference between higher gene expression of FoxP3,TGFb1,IL-10,and IL-23,and approximately equal level of IL-6 in CRC patients in comparison with IBD patients.After stratification of CRC patients,we found a significant difference in FoxP3,IL-10,IL-23,and IL-17A mRNA in early cases compared to IBD,and IL-23 alone in advanced CRC.The protein levels of the cytokines were significantly higher in CRC patients compared to IBD patients.CONCLUSION Our findings showed that IL-6 upregulation is essential for both IBD and CRC development until the upregulation of other Th17/Treg related genes(TGFb1,IL-10,IL-23,and transcription factor FoxP3)is a crucial primarily for CRC development.The significantly upregulated IL-6 could be a potential drug target for IBD and prevention of CRC development as well.
文摘AIMTo make efficacy and safety comparison of telbivudine-raodmap and tenofovir-roadmap in hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. METHODSThis was the first prospective, randomised, two-arm, open-label, non-inferiority study in HBeAg-negative CHB patients that compared telbivudine and tenofovir administered as per roadmap concept. Patients were treated up to 24 wk and, depending on virologic response, continued the same therapy or received add-on therapy up to 104 wk. Eligible patients received an additional 52 wk of treatment in the extension period (i.e., up to 156 wk). Patients who developed virologic breakthrough (VB) while on monotherapy also received add-on therapy. The primary efficacy endpoint was the rate of patients achieving hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA RESULTSA total of 241 patients were randomised. Non-inferiority of telbivudine arm to tenofovir arm was demonstrated at week 52 (± 7 d window), with over 91% of patients in each treatment arm achieving HBV DNA level CONCLUSIONEfficacy was shown for both telbivudine-roadmap and tenofovir-roadmap regimens in HBeAg-negative CHB patients over 156 wk. Telbivudine arm was associated with renal improvement.
基金Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources for the support of this study
文摘Geochemical, mineralogical, and micromorphologieal characteristics of soils and their relevant parent rocks including loess, ignimbrite, sandstone and limestone were investigated to identify the soil-parent material uniformity and the weathering degree of soils in Golestan Province, northern Iran. Highly developed Caleixerolls and moderately developed Haploxerepts were formed on loess and limestone, respectively. In contrast, the soils formed on ignimbrite and sandstone were non- developed Entisols. Illite was the dominant clay mineral found in ignimbrite and sandstone in both the A horizon and parent material. In loess derived soils however, smectite was dominant especially in the Bt horizon compared to its parent material indicating partly to its pedogenic formation. In limestone, illite and vermiculite were dominant both in the A and C horizons. Ti/Zr ratio proved that the studied soils were closely related to their underlying parent materials geochemically. Chemical index of alteration （CIA）, micromorphological index of soil development （MISECA）, smectite/illite＋chlorite ratio and magnetic susceptibility were applied to investigate the degree of soil development. Results showed that the most and the least developed soils were those formed on loess deposits and limestone,respectively. Application of the different geochemical and pedogenetic approaches was proved to be useful in identifying the relevance of soils to their underlying parent materials and also their degree of development.
基金Foundation item： The NNSF （60474022） of China and the Key Science Foundation （2004Z002, D200529001） of Education Committee of Hubei Province.Acknowledgements The authors are highly grateful to referees for their valuable comments and suggestions for improving the paper.
文摘The notions of M-hemirings and L-fuzzy left h-ideals with operators in M-hemirings are introduced, and some properties are investigated. Given an L-fuzzy left h-ideal with operators, a new L-fuzzy left h-ideal with operators is established. Using a collection of left M-h-ideals, L-fuzzy left h-ideals with operators are constructed. Moreover, the concept of M-Notherian M-hemiring is introduced and its characterization is given.
文摘Diabetes mellitus(DM) is the third most common noninfectious disease leading to early disability and high mortality. Moreover, the number of patients is growing every year. The main symptom of DM is hyperglycemia. Increased levels of blood glucose activate polyol, hexosamine, and protein kinase metabolic pathways cause the intensification of non-enzymatic glycosylation and nitration of macromolecules. This, in turn, leads to the development of oxidative and nitrative stresses and secondary complications, such as different kinds of microand macroangiopathies. Metabolic disorders caused by insulin deficiency in diabetes significantly impede the functioning of a homeostasis system, which change the physical, biochemical, morphological, and functional properties of blood cells. As a result, the oxygen-transport function of red blood cells(RBCs), rheological properties of the blood, and functions of immunocompetent cells as well as the process of apoptosis are primarily affected. Modern pharmacotherapy focuses on the search for new preparations that aim to decrease blood glucose levels. Undesirable side effects and adverse reactions caused by synthetic medicines led to the search and investigation of new preparations of natural origin. Medicinal mushrooms play an important role among such new preparations. They are a source of a large number of high-and lowmolecular compounds with pronounced biological effects. Our investigations show pronounced hypoglycemic and anti-anemic action of submerged cultivated mycelium powder of medicinal mushrooms Agaricus brasiliensis(A. brasiliensis) and Ganoderma lucidum(G. lucidum) on streptozotocin-induced DM in rats. Also, we showed that mycelium powders have membrane protective properties as evidenced by the redistribution of RBC populations towards the growth of full functional cell numbers. Normalization of parameters of leukocyte formula and suppression of apoptosis of white blood cells in diabeticrats treated with A. brasiliensis and G. lucidum mycelia indicates pronounced positive effects of these strains of mushrooms. Thus, the use of medicinal mushrooms for treatment of DM and in prevention development of its secondary complications might be a new effective approach of this disease's cure. This article is aimed at summarizing and analyzing the literature data and basic achievements concerning DM type 1 treatment using medicinal mushrooms and showing the results obtained in our research.
文摘The article considers the variability of Nenskra and Nakra River basins glaciers’ parameters in the years of 1911-2014. Nenskra and Nakra River basins are located on the southern slope of the Great Caucasus, between the Kharikhra, Shdavleri and Tsalgmili ranges, in Georgia, in particular in the Enguri River basin. In our research we used the catalogue of the glaciers of Georgia compiled by K. Podozerskiy in 1911. We also used the military topographic maps with the scale of 1:25,000 and 1:50,000 drawn up in 1960 (in former Soviet Union), where there are the glaciers mapped in detail and the ends of their ice tongues on the southern slope of Great Caucasus of those times. We also used the remote sensing method, which is the best modern way for the study of the dynamics of glaciers and this method is remarkable by a quick obtaining of results. The spectral images of the Landsat L8 OLI/TIRS (Operational Land Imager and Thermal Infrared Sensor) (USGS) received from the “Landsat” artificial satellite are the necessary materials for our study. We also used the field survey materials of 2014 (GPS data). The latest statistical information is also given about the glaciers located in the individual river basins;their morphological types, exposition and the dynamics are considered according to the individual years.
文摘We observed a sustained viral response(SVR) of ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, dasabuvir and ribavirin therapy, for 12 wk, in two cases with compensated liver cirrhosis and fully destroyed early hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC). Patients were infected with hepatitis C virus(HCV) genotype 1b and were previous null responders/relapsers to interferon-alpha/ribavirin(IFN/RBV). There was a rapid suppression of HCV RNA to undetectable levels within the first two treatment weeks. SVR was achieved even after marked reduction of the RBV dose. The treatment was well tolerated. Both subjects experienced worsening of liver disease during therapy, in different patterns: severe, transient, predominantly direct hyperbilirubinemia without cytolysis(case 1) or progressive increase of aminotransferases(grade 4) without severe hyperbilirubinemia(case 2).Adverse events spontaneously resolved. The patients remained in a good clinical condition without hepatic decompensation. There was no re-occurrence of HCC. This is the first report for treatment of HCV cirrhosis after complete HCC destruction.
文摘Recent advances in our understanding of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)and the associated acute respiratory distress syndrome might approximate the cytokine release syndrome of severe immune-mediated disease.Importantly,this presumption provides the rationale for utilization of therapy,until recently reserved mostly for autoimmune diseases(ADs),in the management of COVID-19 hyperinflammation condition and has led to an extensive discussion for the potential benefits and detriments of immunosuppression.Our paper intends to examine the available recommendations,complexities in diagnosis and management when dealing with patients with ADs amidst the COVID-19 crisis.Mimicking a flare of an underlying AD,overlapping pathological lung patterns,probability of higher rates of false-positive antibody test,and lack of concrete data are only a part of the detrimental and specific characteristics of COVID-19 outbreak among the population with ADs.The administration of pharmaceutical therapy should not undermine the physical and psychological status of the patient with the maximum utilization of telemedicine.Researchers and clinicians should be vigilant for upcoming research for insight and perspective to fine-tune the clinical guidelines and practice and to weigh the potential benefits and detrimental effects of the applied immunomodulating therapy.
文摘On the example of copper fulvate, it is discussed the method of calculation of stability constants of fulvic complexes. At pH = 8, the complex formation of copper（ll） ions with fulvic acids was studied by the solubility method. Fulvic acids were separated from the river Mtkvari by the adsorption-chromotographic method. The charcoal （BAU, Russia） was used as a sorbent. The suspension of copper（If） hydroxide was used as the solid phase, on which was added the increasing quantity of standard solution of fulvic acids. In diluted solutions, at pH = 8 the dominant form of copper（lI） is copper dihydroxo complex Cu（OH）^zO. It was established that in the Cu（OH）2 （solid）-Cu（OH）^20 （solution）-FA^2-H20 system, dominates copper dyhydroxo fulvate complex with the structure 1：1, [Cu（OH）2FA]^2. The average stability constant of copper dyhydroxo fulvate complex was calculated based on experimental data fl [Cu（OH）2FAJ^2 = 4.5× l0^5.
文摘<strong>Background:</strong> Poor treatment of burns can lead to sepsis and even death. Especially promising is the use of the method of fluorescence spectroscopy for its diagnostics. <strong>The aim of the research</strong> is to create a pathogenetic concept as the basis of a diagnostic and treatment model of purulent-inflammatory diseases and sepsis. <strong>Material and methods:</strong> The study lasted from 2001 to 2019 and included 4 stages. The experimental base of luminescent research at all stages was the luminescence laboratory of the Department of Experimental Physics of the Ivan Franko National University of Lviv. The study was performed by using optical monochromators MDR-2 and MDR-12. The excitation of the blood serum was performed with light with a wavelength of 280 nm, which corresponds to the glow region of human serum albumin. <strong>Results: </strong>The main indicators, used for the analysis, were the fluorescence intensity (<em>I</em><sub><em>F</em></sub>) and the position of the maximum fluorescence band (<em>λ</em><sub>max</sub>). The object of the study was samples of the blood serum of patients of the main and control groups. In the case of the presence of endogenous intoxication in the body, albumin binding centers are blocked by the products of bacterial metabolism and therefore such “pathological” albumin is unable to perform its functions, including transport and detoxification. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> The pathogenetic concept as the basis of the diagnostic and treating model of purulent-inflammatory diseases and sepsis was devised. In particular, the important role of albumin solution infusion in the treatment of the above-mentioned diseases was established.
文摘Karst groundwater is the major natural resource of drinking water for many countries in the world. Especially in karstic regions, karst water requirements for settlements are provided from karst aquifers. Also, we should consider, that karst groundwater is becoming more and more valuable for drinking water supply. Thus, karst groundwater quality and permanent ecological monitoring are very important for populations. Moreover, if we consider that the karst landscape is the extremely sensitive system towards anthropogenic activities, since exaclty the anthropogenic activities largely identify the karst water pollution-turbidity causing factors. This paper presents a new study regarding the quality of the karst groundwater of the study area, which contains important resource of drinking water. In the mentioned study, 12 water samples were collected from different locations of the 4 main karst springs (Krikhula, Dolabistavi, Kidobana and Sakishore) during the spring and summer of 2014 and 2015 years. The main aim was to identify chemical compositions (Ni, Ag, Co, Cd, Zn, Pb, Al, Mg, Fe, F, Cu), and also, it was important to detect Escherichia coli (E. coli). Our research regarding all these chemical compositions shows that all the values are low and under the environmental limit according to the Georgian standards. We measured chemical parameters of all these samples by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) in the chemical laboratory of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, country of Georgia.
