Effects of cervical stabilization training in patients with headache: A single-blinded randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Cervical Stabilization Training (CST) on the headache, neck pain and cervical musculoskeletal system in patients with headache compared to the control group.

METHODS

A total of 90 female patients with migraine, tension-type headache and cervicogenic headache (CGH) participated in this study. The patients were divided into the cervical stabilization training group (CSTG) and the control group (CG). The CSTG performed the CST three times a week for 8 weeks while the CG continued their ongoing medical treatment. The pain intensity was assessed by Visual Analogue Scale, forward head posture by craniovertebral angle measurement, the endurance of deep cervical flexor muscles by craniocervical flexion test and the endurance of cervical muscles by flexor and extensor endurance tests before and after 8 weeks. In addition, disability levels, health-related quality of life, sleep quality and mood were assessed by the Migraine Disability Assessment questionnaire, Neck Disability Index (NDI), Short Form 36 Quality of Life Scale, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Beck Depression Scale, respectively.

RESULTS

Headache frequency, duration and intensity, neck pain intensity and forward head posture reduced while activation and performance of deep cervical flexor muscles, the endurance of cervical flexor and extensor muscles increased in the CSTG (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the disability levels, quality of life, sleep quality and mood also improved in the CSTG (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that CST reduces headaches and neck pain by improving the cervical musculoskeletal system in patients with headache.

SIGNIFICANCE

The CST improved the headache frequency, duration and intensity, neck pain intensity, cervical posture, activation of deep cervical flexor muscles and endurance of cervical muscles in patients with headache. In addition, improvements in the cervical musculoskeletal system contributed to a reduction in the intensity of headaches and neck pain. Therefore, CST may be preferred in the treatment of headaches, especially with coexisting neck pain.

Kynurenine Pathway in Psoriasis-a Promising Link?

Psoriasis is a common dermatosis which affects the patient's skin and general well-being because of its link to diseases such as depression, kidney disease and metabolic syndrome. Pathogenesis remains unknown; however, genetic, environmental and immunological factors seem to play a role in the development of the disease. Due to a lack of complete understanding of the psoriasis pathology, effective treatment is yet to be developed. The kynurenine pathway is one of the ways amino acid tryptophan is metabolised. In comorbidities typical for psoriasis such as chronic kidney disease, depression and atherosclerotic alterations in the activation of the kynurenine pathway were observed, which were mainly characterised by higher activity compared to that in healthy individuals. However, the kynurenine pathway has not been thoroughly studied among patients with psoriasis even though increased levels of L-kynurenine, one of the enzymes in the kynurenine pathway, were found in psoriatic skin lesions. Given the unknown pathogenesis of the disease, this finding seems to be a potential new field of study and shows a possible link between psoriasis and its comorbidities that could also lead to novel effective treatment for this chronic condition.

Reducing oxidative stress by κ-carrageenan and C60HyFn: The post-thaw quality and antioxidant status of Azari water buffalo bull semen

Azeri water buffalo is a species of great interest due to the high quality of its products such as milk. Due to the decreasing trend of its number and risk of extinction in the future, our attention is directed towards ensuring the preservation of its genetic reserves by keeping its sperm. Using antioxidants in semen extender is one of the ways to reduce the detrimental effects of freezing process on post-thawed quality of spermatozoa. This study was conducted to determine the effect of κ-carrageenan (k-CRG) and C60HyFn supplemented semen extender on the quality of post-thawed Azari water buffalo spermatozoa. A total of 30 semen samples were obtained from three buffaloes using an artificial vagina (twice a week for five weeks = 10 replicates). The samples (n = 3) from each replicate were pooled and divided into equal aliquots to prepare 14 extender groups, including control (C), k-0.2, K-0.4, K-0.6, K-0.8 (containing 0.2, 0.4, 0.8 mg K-CRG/mL, respectively), C-0.1, C-0.2, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, C-10, C-20, and C-40 (containing 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1, 5, 10, 20, 40 μM C60HyFn, respectively), and then frozen. After thawing, motility and velocity parameters, plasma membrane integrity (PMI) and functionality (PMF), DNA damage, Hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) test, malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase glutathione activities and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging were evaluated. In vivo fertility was compared between k-0.6, C-1 and control groups. 60 buffalo were inseminated 24 h after the onset of estrus. The diagnosis of pregnancy was performed rectally at least 60 days after fertilization. Total and progressive motility and velocity parameters were improved by k-0.4, k-0.6, k-0.8, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, and C-10 groups) compared to the other groups. Plasma membranes integrity and PMF were improved by k-0.4, k-0.6, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, and C-10 groups compared to other groups, while in terms of sperm DNA damage K-0.4, K-0.6, K-0.8, C-0.2, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, and C-10 groups showed better results compared to the control group. The evidence also showed that k- 0.4, k-0.6, k-0.8, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, and C-10 groups could improve TAC, and decrease MDA levels. Also, k-0.4, k-0.6, k-0.8, C-0.2, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, and C-10 groups could improve GPx, CAT, and GSH levels, but no significant difference was found regarding SOD compared to the other groups. DPPH scavengers were tested by K-0.6, K-0.8 and C-1, C-5, C-10, C-0.8, C-0.4 and C-0.2 groups and compared to other groups improved. The fertility rate [70% (14/20)] was higher in C-1 than other groups. To conclude that k-CRG and C60HyFn supplementation can increase the quality parameters of cryopreserved buffalo semen after thawing and that 1 M C60HyFn can increase in vivo fertility of buffalo semen.

Effect of <i>Althaea rosea</i> flower gum loaded with <i>Thymbra spicata</i> (Zahter) essential oil coating on shelf life and quality of beef patties (Koefte) during cold storage

The aim of this research is to determine the effect of Althaea rosea flower gum loaded with Thymbra spicata essential oils coating on packaged beef patties during cold storage. For this purpose, samples were evaluated in terms of pH, color, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and microbiological properties. In addition, texture profile analysis (TPA) was performed to evaluate the textural properties of the beef patties. The essential oil treatment to the beef patties had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the pH values at the end of storage. The coating significantly affected the L* (lightness), a* (redness) and b* (yellowness) values (p<0.05). A similar situation was also found for lipid oxidation (1.00 µmol MDA (g). The coated samples with essential oil-treated had the lowest values of total aerobic bacteria (3.29 log CFU/g), yeast and mold (2.99 log CFU/g), lactic acid bacteria (2.23 log CFU/g), and total psychrophilic bacteria (2.58 log CFU/g). While the effect of the coating on the adhesiveness, gumminess, and chewiness values of the beef patties at the end of storage was significant (p<0.05), it did not affect other textural properties. Current research has shown that Althaea rosea flower gum can be used in edible coatings and, when fortified with Thymbra spicata essential oil, can be used in muscle foods for preservation and shelf-life extension.

Are menstrual disorders in adolescent girls related to metabolic disorders?

INTRODUCTION

Menstrual disorders in adolescent girls are a common clinical problem. They are often accompanied by lipid and glucose metabolism disturbances. The aim of the study was to investigate to what extent the metabolic profile of adolescent girls relates to the severity of their menstrual disorders.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 165 girls with menstrual disturbances and 49 regularly menstruating girls (REG) without clinical hyperandrogenism, matched for age and BMI. The subjects from the study group were divided into 2 subgroups: OLIGO - 111 girls with oligomenorrhea and SA - 54 girls with secondary amenorrhoea. In all girls, hormonal, lipid, and carbohydrate metabolism profiles were assessed.

RESULTS

In the SA subgroup concentrations of total cholesterol (TC) and LDL were significantly higher than in the REG and OLIGO groups. Triglyceride (TG) concentration was also the highest in the SA group and significantly higher than in the REG group. The prevalence of lipid metabolism disorders was higher in the SA group (65%) vs. the REG (40%) and OLIGO (51%) groups. The subgroups did not differ significantly in terms of fasting and OGTT glucose and insulin as well as HOMA-IR. TyG index was significantly higher in the OLIGO and SA groups than in the REG group. BMI z-score correlated with TG, LDL, fasting and 120' OGTT glucose and insulin, HOMA-IR, and TyG and negatively with HDL. No relationship between hormonal concentration and metabolic disturbances was found.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescent girls with menstrual disorders are insulin resistant, regardless of PCOS diagnosis. The severity of menstrual disorders may be related to the incidence of lipid disorders in adolescent girls.

The opportunities and challenges of working with the development of the ellipse-project before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic

COVID-19 pandemics has influenced many research and educational projects, and it influenced also ELLIPSE-project, aiming at the creation of a free online curriculum in suicide prevention for students in the higher education in Sweden, Austria, Hungary, Norway and Poland (September 2019-August 2022). The ELLIPSE (E-Lifelong Learning In Prevention of Suicide in Europe) (www.e-llipse.com) is the first international project in the area of education in suicide prevention in the higher education co-founded by the European Union Erasmus+ programme. We will reflect on some opportunities and challenges due to COVID-19 pandemics. Identified opportunities: 1) learning a new way of communicating, 2) reaching more participants (in case of Sweden we were able to get participants from more regions, 3) more frequent meetings heightening the quality of the project, 4) travelling less (online is the more eco-friendly solution). But there were also some challenges: 1) not be able to proceed according to the preliminary plan generated much more administrative work, 2) online meetings was a challenge for those partners who had problems adjusting to the online form of communication, 3) more negative attitudes to the canal of communication resulted in avoiding it, leading to less frequent interactions what resulted in diminished motivation to the project, and being unable to proceed with project tasks, 4) resignation of some patients from participation because of difficulties in accepting the online form of communication. We will discuss these issues in a more detailed way during the interactive workshop.

Disclosure

The E-Lifelong Learning In Prevention of Suicide In Europe (ELLIPSE)-project is co-funded by the European Union’s Programme Erasmus+ (Project ID: 2019-1-SE01-KA203-060571). The EU Commission’s support for this project does not mean that the Commission end

An approach to evaluating the potential teratogenic and neurotoxic mechanism of BHA based on apoptosis induced by oxidative stress in zebrafish embryo (Danio rerio)

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) has been widely used in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries due to its antioxidant activity. Despite the antioxidant effects, reported adverse effects of BHA at the cellular level have made its use controversial. In this regard, this study was performed to elucidate the potential toxicity mechanism caused by BHA at the molecular level in zebrafish embryos. For this purpose, zebrafish embryos were exposed to BHA at levels of 0.5, 1, 5, 7.5 and 10 ppm and monitored at 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours. Survival rate, hatching rate and malformations were evaluated. We examined the potential for reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and apoptosis signalling accumulation in the whole body. Moreover, we evaluated histopathological and immunohistochemical (8-OHDG) characterization of the brain in zebrafish embryos at the 96th hour. We also examined apoptosis, histopathological and immunohistochemical (8-OHDG) characteristics in 96 hpf zebrafish larvae exposed to tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), one of the major metabolites of BHA, at doses of 0.5, 2.5, 3.75 and 5 ppm. Consequently, it has been considered that increased embryonic and larval malformations in this study may have been caused by ROS-induced apoptosis. After 96 h of exposure, positive 8-OHdG immunofluorescence, degenerative changes, and necrosis were observed in the brain of BHA and TBHQ-treated zebrafish larvae in a dose-dependent manner. BHA and TBHQ exposure could lead to an increase in 8-OHdG activities by resulting oxidative DNA damage. In particular, the obtained data indicate that the induction of ROS formation, occurring during exposure to BHA and/or multiple hydroxyl groups, could be responsible for apoptosis.

Non-donor specific anti-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies are not associated with poor outcome in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients

Testing for anti-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies has now become standard practice in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), and anti-HLA antibodies (both donor specific and non-donor specific) are being identified and have many potential consequences. Most studies suggest that donor-specific HLA antibodies lead to adverse outcomes, though little is reported on non-donor specific anti-HLA antibodies. We present the results of a retrospective cohort analysis of 157 patients who received HSCT at the University of Rochester over a period of four years. We identified 45 patients (28.7%) who had detectable anti-HLA antibodies, while only one patient (0.6%) had donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies. Patients with prior pregnancies and multiple transfusions were at increased risk to develop antibodies. In our cohort, the presence of non-donor specific anti-HLA antibodies did not significantly impact overall survival, progression free survival, graft failure, or transplant-related mortality.

Spin-glass polyamorphism induced by a magnetic field in LaMnO3 single crystal

We present experimental evidence of field-driven transition in spin-glass state, similar to pressure-induced transition between amorphous phases in structural and metallic glasses, attributed to the polyamorphism phenomena. Cusp in temperature dependences of ac magnetic susceptibility of weakly disordered LaMnO₃ single crystal is registered below the temperature of magnetic ordering. Frequency dependence of the cusp temperature proves its spin-glass origin. The transition induced by a magnetic field in spin-glass state, is manifested by peculiarity in dependence of cusp temperature on applied magnetic field. Field dependent maximum of heat capacity is observed in the same magnetic field and temperature range.

Influence of narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy on serum tumour necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) in patients with psoriasis

Psoriasis is characterized by keratinocyte resistance to apoptosis. We recently demonstrated an increase in serum tumour necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) in patients after topical treatment for psoriasis. We decided to verify whether narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) has a similar effect. Serum concentration of TWEAK was estimated in patients with exacerbated plaque psoriasis treated with NB-UVB. Baseline TWEAK levels were similar in patients with psoriasis and healthy controls, and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) correlated inversely with TWEAK levels. Treatment with NB-UVB caused a significant reduction in PASI and concurrent increase in serum TWEAK. This finding may be due to increased expression of TWEAK receptor in psoriatic skin, which has been reported previously, with consequent binding of excess soluble TWEAK during treatment and subsequent release after treatment. Severity of plaque psoriasis and its improvement after NB-UVB treatment may be associated with TWEAK concentrations. The importance of our findings remains to be established.

Effect of psoriasis activity and topical treatment on plasma epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its soluble receptor (sEGFR)

BACKGROUND

Pathogenesis of psoriasis involves epidermal growth factor (EGF) that participates in keratinocyte proliferation, angiogenesis and cell differentiation through binding to soluble epidermal growth factor receptor (sEGFR). It is synthesised by, among others, keratinocytes, especially within psoriatic skin.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate EGF and sEGFR plasma concentrations during topical psoriatic treatment.

METHODS

Blood samples were collected from 51 patients with plaque psoriasis. EGF and sEGFR plasma concentrations were examined with immunoenzymatic method prior and 14 days after topical treatment. The outcomes were analyzed with respect to PASI.

RESULTS

Mean EGF concentration was higher in the plasma of psoriatic patients compared to the control group (p = .401) while mean sEGFR concentration was over twofold lower compared to the control group (p < .001). After the therapy, an insignificant decrease in EGF plasma concentration (p = .835) and a significant increase in sEGFR concentration (p = .017) compared to initial values were observed. The coefficient of EGF/sEGFR concentration calculated for each individual had similar values before and after the treatment (p = .009), both of which were significantly higher compared to control group (respectively p < .001, p < .008).

CONCLUSION

Epidermal growth factor and its soluble receptor may be a useful markers in monitoring clinical course of psoriasis and the effectiveness of therapy.

Implementation of the national register of suicide attempts as a preliminary strategy for the prevention of suicides in Poland

Studies show that suicide attempts are a major independent predictor of suicide. Only in some countries of the world, there are national registers of these behaviors. Poland is among the countries where suicide prevention is at the stage of implementation of these strategies. One is the initial diagnosis of the prevalence of suicidal behavior (SB) in selected populations. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of SB in Poland on the basis of available databases, including data such as age, sex and mental disorders and the analysis of differentiation of selected indicators of SB.

Material and methods

We analyzed available registers of completed suicides (CS) and suicide attempts (SA), carried out under reporting of the central statistical office (CSO, in the general population, based on death certificates), Police Headquarters (PH, the number of reported SB in the country) and the Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology in Warsaw (IPiN, the number of SB in all psychiatric institutions) and the department of adolescent psychiatry in Łódź (SB among hospitalized youth).

Results and conclusions

Reported data on dissemination of SB in Poland are incomplete, which may affect the reliability of the assessment of the effectiveness of implemented strategies for the prevention of suicides. The aim should be to create a central register of SB, which will not only gather a well-defined data but also monitor how it is obtained.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

Serum Fatty Acid-Binding Protein 4 is Increased in Patients with Psoriasis

Psoriasis is associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Fatty acid-binding proteins (FABP) have been recognized as predictors of these systemic disorders. The aim of this study was to assess correlations between levels of serum heart and adipocyte fatty acid-binding proteins (FABP3, FABP4) and disease severity, indicators of inflammation or metabolic disturbances, and topical treatment in psoriatic patients. Thirty-seven patients with relapse of plaque-type psoriasis and 16 healthy volunteers were recruited. Blood samples were collected before and after 14 days of therapy. Serum FABP concentrations were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for correlation with Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), body mass index (BMI), inflammatory or metabolic parameters, and treatment used. The median FABP4 serum levels were significantly increased (p = 0.038) in psoriatic patients, while FABP3 levels did not differ (p = 0.47) compared to the controls. No significant correlations were noted between the proteins and PASI, C-reactive protein (CRP), BMI, or levels of glucose or lipids. FABP3 significantly correlated with white blood count (p = 0.03) and aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.04). After topical treatment, there was no significant change in serum FABP3 [11.5 (4.9-30.3) vs. 12.9 (3.5-30.3) ng/ml] (p = 0.96), whereas FABP4 was decreased [27,286 (20,344-32,257) vs. 23,034 (18,320-29,874) pg/ml] (p = 0.12), losing its basal significance. FABP4 may be a marker of psoriasis, and FABP3 may be associated with inflammation or liver disorders in psoriatic patients. FABP do not appear to be useful for determining disease severity or the effectiveness of antipsoriatic treatment.

Effect of psoriasis activity and topical treatment on serum lipocalin-2 levels

OBJECTIVE

Psoriasis has been considered as systemic disorder. Lipocalin-2 might be a link between psoriasis and its comorbidities. Aim of the study was to investigate the associations between serum lipocalin-2 levels and the disease activity, markers of inflammation or metabolic disturbances and changes after topical treatment in psoriatic patients.

METHODS

Thirty-seven individuals with active plaque-type psoriasis and 15 healthy controls were recruited. Blood samples were collected before and after 14 days of therapy. Serum lipocalin-2 concentrations were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results were correlated with Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), body mass index (BMI), inflammatory and biochemical markers, lipid profile and with effectiveness of topical treatment.

RESULTS

Lipocalin-2 serum levels were significantly increased in psoriatic patients in comparison to the controls (p = 0.023). No significant correlations with indicators of inflammation, nor BMI or PASI were noted. A statistical association between lipocalin-2 and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol was shown. After topical treatment serum lipocalin-2 level did not significantly change (p = 0.9), still remaining higher than in the controls, despite clinical improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Lipocalin-2 might be a marker of psoriasis and convey cardiovascular or metabolic risk in psoriatic patients, but may not be a reliable indicator of inflammation, severity of psoriasis nor efficacy of antipsoriatic treatment.

The influence of the Foehn wind (Halny) on the occurrence of suicide in the Tatra Mountains, 1999–2014

Introduction

In the dawn of increasing interest in climate changes, including extreme weather events, e.g. the Foehn winds, and their influence on public health, it is of great importance to understand their role in suicide.

Objectives

The association between suicides in the Tatra Mountains, Poland from 1999 to 2014 and the Foehn wind (called Halny in this region) was examined. The belief that suicides are affected by Halny seems to be firmly rooted in local language and culture.

Aims

The purpose of the study was to assess the Halny wind as a suicide risk factor.

Method

Data concerning all suicides in the region were included. Meteorological data were derived every three hours during the period of the study. Halny was defined as a complex of interacting meteorological conditions. The two days preceding and following the wind were recognized as the period of the Foehn influence (FI). The probability of suicide in the presence of Halny and during the FI period was calculated.

Results

From 1st January 1999 to 31 December 2014 (5844 days), 210 consecutive suicides were registered. The number of suicides in men was markedly higher than in women. Halny did not change the overall probability of suicide. However, the presence of Halny modified the suicide risk according to the season (P = 0.00095, two-way ANOVA test). The FI periods appeared to increase suicide risk in summer and autumn.

Conclusion

Halny may contribute to the increased suicide risk in summer and autumn. It should be taken into account in suicide preventive interventions in this region.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

The effect of topical treatment and psoriasis severity on serum retinol-binding protein-4 levels

OBJECTIVE

Psoriasis has been considered as chronic systemic disease. Retinol-binding protein-4 (RBP-4) might play a role in psoriasis and its comorbidities. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between serum RBP-4 levels and disease severity, indicators of inflammation or metabolic syndrome and changes after topical treatment in psoriatic patients.

METHODS

Thirty-seven patients with relapse of plaque-type psoriasis and 16 healthy volunteers were examined. Blood samples were collected before and after 14 days of therapy. Serum RBP-4 concentrations were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for correlation with psoriasis area and severity index (PASI), body mass index (BMI), inflammatory and biochemical markers and with efficacy of topical treatment.

RESULTS

RBP-4 serum levels were increased in psoriatics compared to the controls, but without statistical significance (p = 0.2). No significant correlations between investigated adipokine and several indicators of metabolic disorders, nor BMI or PASI were found. A significant negative correlation with CRP was noted. After topical treatment serum RBP-4 level did not significantly change (p = 0.3), despite clinical improvement.

CONCLUSION

RBP-4 might have a protective role in terms of chronic inflammation and comorbidities of psoriasis. The adipokine is presumably not useful in determining severity and the effectiveness of antipsoriatic treatment.

Effect of psoriasis activity on epidermal growth factor (EGF) and the concentration of soluble EGF receptor in serum and plaque scales

BACKGROUND

Epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFRs) are overexpressed in psoriatic keratinocytes, and regulate cell growth, proliferation and differentiation through binding to epidermal growth factor (EGF). The role of EGF and EGFRs in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and the contribution of their measurement to psoriasis management are still unknown.

AIM

To evaluate serum concentrations of EGF, soluble (s)EGFRs and EGF content in psoriatic scales of patients with severe psoriasis, and to analyse their association with the clinical activity of the disease.

METHODS

Serum samples and plaque scales were collected from 51 patients with plaque-type psoriasis. Concentrations of EGF and sEGFR in serum and of EGF in scales were measured using enzyme immunoassay. Data were analysed with respect to baseline Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI).

RESULTS

Mean serum EGF concentration in patients was higher than in controls (701 ± 72 vs. 586 ± 63 pg/mL), but the difference was not significant. Mean serum concentration of sEGFR was significantly lower than controls (40.8 ± 1.4 vs. 86.4 ± 11.3 ng/mL, P < 0.001). Serum levels of EGF showed a significant positive correlation and EGFR showed a significant negative correlation with PASI (P < 0.05). No correlation was seen between PASI and EGF content in scales or between EGF and sEGFR levels. Serum EGF concentrations reached the highest mean level (914 ± 138 pg/mL) in patients with PASI > 20, and this was significantly higher than the mean of 414 ± 82 pg/mL in the group with PASI < 10. Mean sEGFR serum concentrations remained significantly lower than those of controls, irrespective of disease severity.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with controls, patients with psoriasis had increased EGF and decreased sEGFR levels in serum. EGF and sEGFR levels correlated with disease severity.

Luminescence properties of different Eu sites in LiMgPO4:Eu(2+), Eu(3+)

The effect of temperature on the luminescence properties of LiMgPO4 doped with Eu(3+) and Eu(2+) are presented. Depending on the excitation wavelength, luminescence spectra consist of two distinct broad emission bands peaking at 380 nm and 490 nm related to 4f(6)5d(1) → 4f(7) ((8)S7/2) luminescence of Eu(2+) and to europium-trapped exciton, respectively, and/or several sharp lines between the 580 nm and 710 nm region, ascribed to the (5)D0 → (7)FJ (J = 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4) transitions in Eu(3+). To explain all the features of the Eu(2+) and Eu(3+) luminescence we discussed the existence of two different Eu sites substituting for Li(+), with short and long distance compensation. The evident effect of increasing the intensity of the Eu(2+) luminescence with increasing temperature was observed. It was considered that the charge compensation mechanism for Eu(3+) and Li(+) as well as Eu(2+) replacing Li(+) in the LiMgPO4 is a long distance compensation that allows for the existence of some of the europium ions either as Eu(3+) at low temperature or as Eu(2+) at high temperature. We concluded that Eu(2+) in the Li(+) site with long distance compensation yields only 4f(6)5d(1) → 4f(7) luminescence, whereas Eu(2+) in the Li(+) site with short distance compensation yields 4f(6)5d(1) → 4f(7) luminescence and europium-trapped exciton emission.

Phase II study of gemcitabine, oxaliplatin in combination with panitumumab in KRAS wild-type unresectable or metastatic biliary tract and gallbladder cancer

BACKGROUND

Current data suggest that platinum-based combination therapy is the standard first-line treatment for biliary tract cancer. EGFR inhibition has proven beneficial across a number of gastrointestinal malignancies; and has shown specific advantages among KRAS wild-type genetic subtypes of colon cancer. We report the combination of panitumumab with gemcitabine (GEM) and oxaliplatin (OX) as first-line therapy for KRAS wild-type biliary tract cancer.

METHODS

Patients with histologically confirmed, previously untreated, unresectable or metastatic KRAS wild-type biliary tract or gallbladder adenocarcinoma with ECOG performance status 0-2 were treated with panitumumab 6 mg kg(-1), GEM 1000 mg m(-2) (10 mg m(-2) min(-1)) and OX 85 mg m(-2) on days 1 and 15 of each 28-day cycle. The primary objective was to determine the objective response rate by RECIST criteria v.1.1. Secondary objectives were to evaluate toxicity, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients received at least one cycle of treatment across three institutions, 28 had measurable disease. Response rate was 45% and disease control rate was 90%. Median PFS was 10.6 months (95% CI 5-24 months) and median overall survival 20.3 months (95% CI 9-25 months). The most common grade 3/4 adverse events were anaemia 26%, leukopenia 23%, fatigue 23%, neuropathy 16% and rash 10%.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of gemcitabine, oxaliplatin and panitumumab in KRAS wild type metastatic biliary tract cancer showed encouraging efficacy, additional efforts of genetic stratification and targeted therapy is warranted in biliary tract cancer.

Serum adiponectin and leptin levels in psoriatic patients according to topical treatment

OBJECTIVES

Psoriasis has been considered as a systemic disease associated with obesity, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome. Adipokines have influence on many metabolic processes. Aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of conventional topical treatment on serum adiponectin and leptin levels in patients with psoriasis.

METHODS

Forty-nine patients with relapse of plaque-type psoriasis and 16 healthy controls were examined. Blood samples were collected before therapy and after 14 days of application. Serum adiponectin and leptin concentrations were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for correlations with effectiveness of topical treatment.

RESULTS

Adiponectin and leptin serum levels were significantly decreased in psoriatic patients in comparison to the controls. As a result of the topical treatment, serum adiponectin level did not significantly change. Serum leptin level increased significantly, still remaining lower than in the controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Leptin might be a useful marker in assessing the efficacy of the treatment for psoriasis.

High pressure and time-resolved luminescence spectra of Ca3Y2(SiO4)3 doped with Eu2+ and Eu3+

Tricalcium diyttrium trisilicon oxide, Ca(3)Y(2)(SiO(4))(3) doped with Eu(2+) and Eu(3+) belongs to a very limited number of hosts able to accommodate both Eu(3+) and Eu(2+) ions, which might make it useful for white light emitting diodes (WLEDs) based on UV chip technology. In this contribution we present a detailed study of photoluminescence kinetics and high pressure spectroscopy of Eu(3+) and Eu(2+) doped Ca(3)Y(2)(SiO(4))(3). At ambient pressure and room temperature, under excitation with near-UV radiation, a broad emission band from 400 to 550 nm due to the 4f(6)5d(1)→4f(7)((8)S(7/2)) transition in Eu(2+) was observed, as well as several emission peaks in the region between 550 and 710 nm, ascribed to the (5)D(0)→ (7)F(J) (J = 0-4) transitions in Eu(3+). The bluish green luminescence related to Eu(2+) in the Ca(3)Y(2)(SiO(4))(3) exhibits a small red pressure-induced shift reaching -5.2 cm(-1)/kbar. The red shifts of the luminescence lines related to Eu(3+) ion emission vary from 0.15 to -0.54 cm(-1)/kbar. Time-resolved photoluminescence was measured at different temperatures and pressures. Luminescence decay traces were studied for the bluish green emission band of Eu(2+) and for the red emission peak due to the (5)D(0) →  (7)F(2) transition of Eu(3+). Decay times slightly decreased with increasing pressure.

A giant planet orbiting the ‘extreme horizontal branch’ star V 391 Pegasi

After the initial discoveries fifteen years ago, over 200 extrasolar planets have now been detected. Most of them orbit main-sequence stars similar to our Sun, although a few planets orbiting red giant stars have been recently found. When the hydrogen in their cores runs out, main-sequence stars undergo an expansion into red-giant stars. This expansion can modify the orbits of planets and can easily reach and engulf the inner planets. The same will happen to the planets of our Solar System in about five billion years and the fate of the Earth is matter of debate. Here we report the discovery of a planetary-mass body (Msini = 3.2M(Jupiter)) orbiting the star V 391 Pegasi at a distance of about 1.7 astronomical units (au), with a period of 3.2 years. This star is on the extreme horizontal branch of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram, burning helium in its core and pulsating. The maximum radius of the red-giant precursor of V 391 Pegasi may have reached 0.7 au, while the orbital distance of the planet during the stellar main-sequence phase is estimated to be about 1 au. This detection of a planet orbiting a post-red-giant star demonstrates that planets with orbital distances of less than 2 au can survive the red-giant expansion of their parent stars.

Sarcoidosis after use of interferon for chronic hepatitis C: report of a case and review of the literature

Although interferon has not been classified in the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis, it may rarely lead to this disease during treatment of chronic hepatitis C. The case of a 36-year-old woman with chronic hepatitis C who developed sarcoidosis within 10 weeks of treatment with recombinant interferon-alpha2a and ribavirin is described and all seven similar cases published in English from 1989 to 2001 are discussed.

Population changes and the cost of health care for the elderly in Poland

"The author...has attempted to measure the effects of population changes upon the costs of health care [in Poland] by applying a simulation model. In this model the total cost of health care is a function of the per capita cost of health care by age, sex, and place of residence (urban, rural) and population structure.... The paper includes...the results concerning population 60 years of age and over." Data are from several official health-related surveys carried out in 1989.

Mortality in Poland in the period 1950-1990

"In this paper, crude, specific [mortality] rates as well as nonstandardized and standardized indices of regional mortality differentials are analysed [for Poland] for the period 1950-1990, in order to show mortality differentiation, its increase by age, sex, and place of residence. Taking into account cause specific death rates, the pattern of causes of deaths was found to be similar to that existing in the western countries, although the level of standardized mortality is higher in Poland. Values of calculated indices of regional mortality differentials point to significant differences in mortality by voivodship."

Delays in the diagnosis and treatment of hospitalized patients with smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis

The aim of present study was to investigate whether there was any delay in the diagnosis and treatment of inpatients with smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis followed-up in our centre. We reviewed clinical records in February 1999 and identified 134 hospitalized patients with smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis. Clinical files of the patients were analysed and a questionnaire was completed. Several intervals and delays were calculated. Median application interval was 17.5 days [95% confidence interval (CI) 21.3-32.4 days], median referral interval was 3.5 days (95% CI 6.8-11.4 days), median diagnosis interval was 3 days (95% CI 3.3-4.5 days) and median initiation of treatment interval was 1 day (95% CI 1.1-1.6 days). Patients delay was present in 28.4% of cases. The referral interval was longer than 2 days in 82 patients (institutional delay). Ninety-three patients (69.4%) had delays in the diagnosis and 34 patients (25.4%) had delays in the treatment. There was a doctor's delay in 119 of 134 patients (88.8%) and clinic's delay in 98 patients (73.2%). Our results have suggested that hospitalized patients with smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis experience several delays. These delays may result in increased risk for transmission of infection. Decrease in the risk of infection for community and medical personal may only be obtained by preventing these delays.

Composted grape marc as growing medium for hypostases (Hypostases phyllostagya)

The use of composted grape marc (CGM) as a plant growth medium was investigated with Hypostases (Hypostases phyllostagya). Seven media were prepared using CGM mixed, in different ratios, with native peat and perlite. The following mixtures were used: 100% CGM, 75% CGM + 25% peat, 50% CGM + 50% perlite, 25% CGM + 75% peat, 50% CGM + 25%) peat + 25% perlite, 25%, CGM + 50%, peat + 25% perlite and 100% peat. The experiment was arranged in a randomized plot design with four replicates under greenhouse conditions. After a growing period of three months, some horticultural parameters were measured. Besides, some physical and chemical properties of the growing medium were determined. The mixtures of 50% CGM + 50% peat, 25% CGM + 75% peat and 100% peat were found to be most suitable based on the horticultural parameters. This was confirmed through the physical characteristics. Up to 50% composted grape marc can be used in mixtures with peat on account of its low cost and high nutrient content.

Opposite trends of changes in reactive behaviours of macrophages and astrocytes following gamma-irradiation performed at different stages of prenatal development. A study in the injured brain of 6-day-old rat

Pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to a single 1.0 Gy dose of gamma rays on gestational days 13, 15, 17 or 19 (E13s, E15s, E17s and E19s, respectively). A mechanical injury was made in the cerebral hemisphere of their 6 day-old male offsprings. The injured rats were injected with [3H] thymidine on day 1 or 2 after injury and killed 4 h after the injection. Brain sections were processed for BSI-B4 isolectin histochemistry, subjected to autoradiography and examined microscopically to record numbers of proliferating and unproliferating macrophages located within the region of injury. The total number of macrophages as well as number of their divisions were minimal in E13s then showed a regular increase in E15s and E17s, and reached its maximal level in brains irradiated on E19. The trend of changes was opposite to that showed by changes in the intensity of astrocyte proliferation [Z. Setkowicz, K. Janeczko, Effects of prenatal gamma-irradiation on the astrocyte proliferation in response to injury in the brain of 6-day-old rat, Brain Res. 803 (1998) 122-128.]. The recruitment and proliferation of macrophages and the astrocyte proliferation were regarded as reactive processes occurring under control of different regulatory mechanisms acting within the region of injury.

[Mortality in the years 1950-1990]

"The author of the paper has attempted to show...trends in...mortality by sex, age, place of residence and [the] selected most important death causes in Poland. The crude and the specific as well as standardized death rates and life expectancy have been analyzed for the period...1950-1990." (SUMMARY IN ENG)