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The unstable N=42 nucleus 72Zn has been studied using multiple safe Coulomb excitation in inverse kinematics. The experiment was performed at the REX-ISOLDE facility at CERN making first use of the silicon detector array C-REX in combination with the γ-ray spectrometer Miniball. The high angular coverage of C-REX allowed to determine the reduced transition strengths for the decay of the yrast 01+, 21+ and 41+ as well as of the 02+ and 22+ states in 72Zn. The quadrupole moments of the 21+, 41+ and 22+ states were extracted. Using model independent quadrupole invariants, the ground state of 72Zn was found to have an average deformation in the γ degree of freedom close to maximum triaxiality. In comparison to experimental data in zinc isotopes with N

The first low-energy Coulomb-excitation measurement of the radioactive, semi-magic, two proton-hole nucleus 206Hg, was performed at CERN's recently-commissioned HIE-ISOLDE facility. Two γ rays depopulating low-lying states in 206Hg were observed. From the data, a reduced transition strength B(E2;21+→01+)=4.4(6) W.u. was determined, the first such value for an N=126 nucleus south of 208Pb, which is found to be slightly lower than that predicted by shell-model calculations. In addition, a collective octupole state was identified at an excitation energy of 2705 keV, for which a reduced B(E3) transition probability of 30−13+10 W.u. was extracted. These results are crucial for understanding both quadrupole and octupole collectivity in the vicinity of the heaviest doubly-magic nucleus 208Pb, and for benchmarking a number of theoretical approaches in this key region. This is of particular importance given the paucity of data on transition strengths in this region, which could be used, in principle, to test calculations relevant to the astrophysical r-process.

The lifetimes of the low-lying excited states 2+ and 4+ have been directly measured in the neutron-deficient 106,108Sn isotopes. The nuclei were populated via a deep-inelastic reaction and the lifetime measurement was performed employing a differential plunger device. The emitted γ rays were detected by the AGATA array, while the reaction products were uniquely identified by the VAMOS++ magnetic spectrometer. Large-Scale Shell-Model calculations with realistic forces indicate that, independently of the pairing content of the interaction, the quadrupole force is dominant in the B(E2;21+→0g.s.+) values and it describes well the experimental pattern for 104−114Sn; the B(E2;41+→21+) values, measured here for the first time, depend critically on a delicate pairing-quadrupole balance, disclosed by the very precise results in 108Sn.

A multi-step Coulomb excitation measurement with the GRETINA and CHICO2 detector arrays was carried out with a 430-MeV beam of the neutron-rich 110Ru (t1/2=12 s) isotope produced at the CARIBU facility. This represents the first successful measurement following the post-acceleration of an unstable isotope of a refractory element. The reduced transition probabilities obtained for levels near the ground state provide strong evidence for a triaxial shape; a conclusion confirmed by comparisons with the results of beyond-mean-field and triaxial rotor model calculations.

Fine-grain species niche modelling in topographically diverse areas poses a serious challenge. Nonetheless, it is important for studying factors enabling species’ survival in a changing climate and understanding current species distribution. Niches of two mountain species: Cotoneaster integerrimus Medik and Valeriana tripteris L., were analyzed in a specific area of limestone hill Góra Zborów, which can be treated as a model of topographically differentiated area located outside mountains. The area constitutes a regional center of biodiversity and is protected as a nature reserve. C. integerrimus and V. tripteris are considered to have relic localities there. The aim of the study was a multifaceted fine-grain comparison of Cotoneaster integerrimus and Valeriana tripteris niches: 1) according to variables derived from high-resolution topographical model of the study area; 2) according to direct site characteristics; 3) according to species coexisting with the analyzed taxa.During the field studies, the data regarding abiotic conditions and plant cover were gathered from sites of the selected species. To better characterize these sites against the surrounding environment, a topographical model of the entire Góra Zborów was also used. Niche modelling was conducted by multivariate analysis in environmental space, with the usage of PCA and DCA ordinations. Also step regression models were used to identify the predominant co-occurring plant species. The results of different computational methods suitable for different kinds of variables were compared.The results of all analyses remained consistent with the field observations. ‘Heat load’ combined with ‘Aspect’, and ‘Wetness’ combined with ‘Slope’ variables accurately explained the environmental differentiation of the area derived from topography characteristics. The overlap of the species’ niches was significant; however, the niches were not identical. C. integerrimus could grow in more insolated habitats characterized by higher cover of ground vascular flora, in which case significant positive relations with several herb taxa co-occurrence were identified. V. tripteris preferred the presence of barren rocks, higher cover of bryophytes, and trees and shrubs that shaded the locality.Niche overlap analysis conducted with differentiated methods underlined the importance of the variable selection for the analysis result, and the value and complementarity of different computational methods. The presented analysis can also be regarded as an attempt at a demonstration of the area conservation value by the study concerning only two chosen species. The study confirmed the importance of Góra Zborów Nature Reserve as the possible refugial area during climate changes.

The proton-rich isotope 68Br was discovered in secondary fragmentation reactions of fast radioactive beams. Proton-rich secondary beams of 70,71,72Kr and 70Br, produced at the RIKEN Nishina Center and identified by the BigRIPS fragment separator, impinged on a secondary 9Be target. Unambiguous particle identification behind the secondary target was achieved with the ZeroDegree spectrometer. Based on the expected direct production cross sections from neighboring isotopes, the lifetime of the ground or long-lived isomeric state of 68Br was estimated. The results suggest that secondary fragmentation reactions, where relatively few nucleons are removed from the projectile, offer an alternative way to search for new isotopes, as these reactions populate preferentially low-lying states. Keywords: Radioactive beams, New isotope, Direct reaction

Excited states in the Tz=−1 nucleus 70Kr have been populated using inelastic scattering of a radioactive 70Kr beam as well as one- and two-neutron removal reactions from 71,72Kr at intermediate beam energies. The level scheme of 70Kr was constructed from the observed γ-ray transitions and coincidences. Tentative spin and parity assignments were made based on comparison with the mirror nucleus 70Se. A second 2+ state and a candidate for the corresponding 42+ state suggest shape coexistence in 70Kr. Keywords: Radioactive beams, Gamma-ray spectroscopy, Mirror symmetry, Shape coexistence

The ongoing biodiversity crisis associated with anthropogenic global warming has especially severe effects on mountain and cold-adapted species. The lesson from the postglacial period can provide examples for future predictions, but scenarios of the range shift of mountain species are not fully explored. Different stories could happen if a species achieved long-distance dispersal and reached lowland locations or if survived only in mountains, during the ice age. In the case of grasses, a key role in range dynamics is played also by polyploidy. Due to their enhanced genetic and physiological plasticity, polyploids are thought to be less likely to become extinct during global changes.The present study explores the postglacial range shifts in two Festuca species, which differ in range size (endemic vs widespread) and in ploidy level (diploid vs mixed-ploidy). We used phylogeography and distribution models to analyze changes in potential range during global warming. We achieved a sophisticated prediction by using modeling based on climate and edaphic factors.Our findings indicate a low level of gene flow between populations, irrespective of variation in distance, range size and ploidy. Slightly shorter genetic distances were observed between the tetraploid populations compared to the diploids. Our data indicates that diploids adapted to cold conditions were restricted to mountains during glaciations, while polyploids spread more widely during cold periods. Nevertheless, since the LGM it appears that all studied ranges have been rather conservative, with maybe some local contractions and expansions, especially in tetraploids. Moreover, tetraploids demonstrated the most stable potential range during climate warming.The studied cases are characterized by individual and complex range dynamics dependent on local conditions and cytotype behaviour. However, generally speaking, studied mountain species demonstrate a conservative range, which places them at risk of extinction during global warming due to the lack of effective means of escape.

In the framework of polyploidization, a widely discussed issue is the possibility of niche shift. Numerous studies have investigated niche differentiation among cytotypes, with some confirming distinct differences, while others finding them to be similar. Within this research project, we focus on the case of the cytotypes (2x and 4x) of Festuca amethystina L. and the closely related F. tatrae (Czakó) Degen (2x). We hypothesize that a significant change in the edaphic niche of tetraploids could be a factor that enabled them to occupy new lowland areas inaccessible to diploids which are characteristic of mountain habitats.The edaphic niche differentiation between Festuca amethystina cytotypes was determined by studying the niches’ breadths using PCA-based modeling and separate analyses of particular soil features. The modeling was based on SoilGridsTM data, and the conclusions were compared with the results of the direct soil studies. Such a research model makes it possible to determine to what extent the data coming from the mentioned database allows for the indication of niche differentiation.Coarse-grained modeling based on SoilGridsTM data indicated a significant change in the edaphic requirements of the tetraploids, as well as pointed to the niche shift towards a higher content of sand, lower carbon and nitrogen content, and lower pH. The direct soil sampling and laboratory tests confirmed these trends and provided a more detailed understanding of the cytotypes requirements. However, no statistically significant differences were observed between cytotypes concerning soil pH, the majority of base cations, available forms of phosphorus and potassium, and the results of CHN elemental analysis. While the direct soil sampling did not reveal significant differences, the analyses based on the niche modeling, considering a wide background area in Central Europe (using SoilGrids data), captured significant variations. This comprehensive approach allowed us to uncover a highly logical pattern of niche shift, which indicates that tetraploids are predisposed to extend their geographical range to post-glacial lowland areas.Additionally, Festuca amethystina tetraploids display a wider edaphic niche breadth than their closely related and hypothetical ancestor Festuca tatrae. The decision to include the latter reduced the probability that the obtained result of the significant increase of the tetraploid edaphic niche was a simple result of hybridization.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks among the leading cancers in terms of incidence and mortality in the Western world. Currently, there are no sufficient diagnostic markers that would enable an early diagnosis and efficient therapy. Unfortunately, a significant number of new CRC cases is detected in late stages, with distant metastases, therefore, new therapeutic approaches, which would alleviate the prognosis for advanced stages of CRC, are highly in demand. SNHG6 belongs to the group of long non-coding RNAs, which are a larger entity of RNAs consisting of >200 nucleotides. SNHG6 is expressed mainly in the cell cytoplasm, where it acts as a regulator of numerous processes: modulation of crucial protein hubs; sponging miRNAs and upregulating the expression of their target mRNAs; and interacting with various cellular pathways including TGF-β/Smad and Wnt/β-catenin. SNHG6 is an oncogene, substantially overexpressed in CRC tissues and cancerous cell lines as compared to healthy samples. Its overexpression is associated with higher grade, lymphovascular invasion and tumor size. Taking into consideration the role of SNHG6 in the colorectal tumorigenesis, invasion and metastasis, we summarized its role in CRC and conclude that it could serve as a potential biomarker in CRC diagnosis and prognosis assessment., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest All authors of the submitted publication, Michalina Jurkiewicz, Adrian Szczepaniak and Marta Zielińska, do not declare conflict of interests., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

The Growth and Differential Factor 11 (GDF11) is a recently discovered representative of Transforming Growth Factor β superfamily. The highest expression of GDF11 is detected in the nervous system, bladder, seminal vesicles and muscles whereas the lowest in the testis, liver or breast. GDF11 role in physiology is still not clear. GDF11 is a crucial factor in embryogenesis, cell cycle control and apoptosis, inasmuch it mainly targets cell retain stemness features, managing to the cell differentiation and the maturation. GDF11 is entangled in lipid metabolism, inflammatory processes and aging. GDF11 is strongly related to carcinogenesis and its expression in tumors is intruded. GDF11 can promote cancer growth in the colon or inhibit the cell proliferation in breast cancer. The aberrated expression is probably allied with the impaired maturation. In this article we summarized an impact of GDF11 on the tumor cells and review the all attitudes connecting GDF11 with carcinogenesis., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

GDF11 (Growth differentiation factor 11) is a newly discovered member of family of transforming growth factors-β. Its crucial role was confirmed in physiology, i.e. embryogenesis due to its involvement in bone formation, skeletogenesis and it is essential to stating skeletal pattern. GDF11 is described as a rejuvenating and anti-aging molecule, that could even restore functions. Beside embryogenesis, GDF11 participates in the process of inflammation and carcinogenesis. An anti-inflammatory effect of GDF11 was found in experimental colitis, psoriasis and arthritis. Current data regarding liver fibrosis and renal injury indicate that GDF11 may act as pro-inflammatory agent. In this review, we describe its involvement in regulation of acute and chronic inflammatory disorders., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have no competing interests., (Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Glioblastoma is the most common and the deadliest brain cancer. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of resveratrol and its five analogs: 3,4,4'-trimethoxy, 3,4,2'-trimethoxy, 3,4,2',4'-tetramethoxy, 3,4,2',6'-tetramethoxy and 3,4,2',4',6'-pentamethoxy-trans-stilbenes (MS) on human glioblastoma T98G cells., Materials and Methods: The Parallel Artificial Membrane Permeation Assay (PAMPA) was used for the prediction of blood-brain barrier penetration ability of the tested stilbenes (PAMPA-BBB). MTT test was applied to analyze the cytotoxicity of the compounds, whereas their ability to inhibit Wnt/β-catenin target genes expression was verified using qPCR. The potential DNA demethylating properties of the analyzed compounds were tested by Methylation-Sensitive High Resolution Melting (MS-HRM). Cell cycle distribution was tested using Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS), whereas apoptosis was analyzed using FITC Annexin V/propidium iodide double staining assay and Western blot., Results: High blood-brain barrier permeability coefficient was obtained for both resveratrol as well as methoxy-stilbenes. Their ability to downregulate the expression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related genes was confirmed. The 4'-methoxy substituted derivatives showed higher activity, whereas 3,4,4'-tri-MS was the most potent Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitor. None of the compounds affected DNA methylation level of MGMT, SFRP1, or RUNX3, despite inducing moderate changes in the level of expression of epigenetic modifiers DNMT3B and TET1-3. Importantly, treatment with 3,4,4'-tri-MS and 3,4,2',4'-tetra-MS led to cycle arrest in the S phase and induced apoptosis., Conclusions: Both, resveratrol, as well as its synthetic methoxy-derivatives, should be further studied as promising adjuvants in glioblastoma treatment., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no conflict of interests., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cause of death among neoplasms around the world. The environmental factors, like diet and obesity, are crucial in CRC pathogenesis by creating cancer-favorable microenvironment and hormonal changes. Adiponectin, the adipose tissue-specific hormone, is generally considered to negatively correlate with CRC development. The interleukin 6 (IL-6) is one of the most important pro-inflammatory cytokine connected with CRC, which is strongly inflammation-associated. The opioids are variable group substantially correlated with cancers - the endogenous opioids affect immune system and cell cycle including proliferation and cell death whereas exogenous opioids are leading clinically used analgesics in terminal cancer patients. In this review we discuss the involvement of adiponectin, IL-6 and opioids in CRC pathogenesis, their link with obesity, possible cross-talk and potential novel therapeutic approach in CRC treatment., (Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

The article discusses pharmacologic and interventional therapeutic options for patients with refractory angina. Refractory angina refers to long-lasting symptoms (≥3 months) due to established reversible ischemia in the presence of obstructive coronary artery disease, which cannot be controlled by escalating medical therapy with second-line and third-line pharmacologic agents, bypass grafting, or stenting. Due to an aging population, increased number of comorbidities, and advances in coronary artery disease treatment, incidence of refractory angina is growing. Although the number of therapeutic options is increasing, there is a lack of randomized clinical trials that could help create recommendations for this group of patients., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Separation of molecules in aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) depends on many factors, e.g. salt concentration, pH, polyethylene glycol (PEG) concentration and molecular weight. The aim of the study was to analyze partition of model proteins (lysozyme, bovine serum albumin and hemoglobin) depending on the magnetic field action and the factors mentioned above in PEG/MgSO 4 ATPS. Partition of these proteins studied always depended on PEG molecular weight, while salt concentration influenced only BSA and HGB separation. Two of the proteins tested, i.e. lysozyme and BSA showed high affinity to the PEG-rich-phase. The magnetic field significantly forced distribution of BSA and lysozyme to the phase rich in MgSO 4 . Hemoglobin, which presented a tendency to accumulation in salt phase was not affected by the magnetic field. Thus, the influence of the magnetic field on protein partition in ATPS is a consequence of the properties of separated molecules, and rearranges of water dipoles and hydrogen bonds reshape., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The objective of the study is to obtain the modified zeolite powders and to apply these materials as active fillers in the dental composites with the remineralizing potential. Three different synthesis pathways were applied to receive LTA-type (Linde A-type) zeolites. All zeolites were subjected to the ion exchange process and mineralization of surface with hydroxyapatite (HA) layer. As a result a calcium form and surface modified form of these materials were prepared. The effectiveness of each modification process was confirmed by X-ray Diffractometry, Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy. Materials were also characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy and nitrogen adsorption/desorption measurements. The remineralizing potential was specified as an ability to release calcium ions during the incubation in saline with the use of Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry. The obtained zeolite fillers were placed in the organic matrix to create photopolymerizable composites with potential dental applications. The homogeneity of the filler distribution in polymeric matrix was checked by the Raman spectra mapping. Composites containing calcium form of zeolites as well as zeolites with the HA layer proved to have the ability to release calcium ions during incubation in saline in the amount comparable to calcium phosphates-filled composites or even higher than dental glass-filled composites. The ability to release calcium ions, together with good mechanical properties and mass stability testify the suitability of prepared composites in potential dental applications., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Piracetam, a popular nootropic drug, widely used in the treatment of age-associated mental decline and disorders of the nervous system such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia exists under normal pressure in three polymorphic forms (P1, P2 and P3) of different stability. In this work the relative stability of piracetam polymorphs depending on the temperature was studied using the ssNMR spectroscopy combined with ab initio DFT calculations. The ssNMR spectroscopy enabled the analysis of polymorphic phase transition in the case of pure active substance as well as polymorphic form identification in the analysis of the commercial solid dosage formulations. Quantum chemical calculations of phonon density of states were performed to obtain the temperature dependence of the enthalpy, entropy and free energy of the piracetam polymorphs in a quasi-harmonic approximation. GIPAW NMR calculations combined with molecular dynamics were performed to support the chemical shift assignment. The obtained results showed that DFT calculations can be used not only to obtain the NMR parameters but also to predict the influence of the temperature on the stability order of the polymorphic forms of molecular crystals., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

In the years 2014-2016 biomonitoring studies were conducted in the forest areas of south and north-eastern Poland: the Karkonosze Mountains, the Beskidy Mountains, the Borecka Forest, the Knyszyńska Forest and the Białowieska Forest. This study used epigeic moss Pleurozium schreberi and epiphytic lichens Hypogymnia physodes. Samples were collected in spring, summer and autumn. Approximately 500 samples of moss and lichens were collected for the study. In the samples, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Hg and Pb concentrations were determined. Based on the obtained results, the studied areas were ranked by extent of heavy-metal deposition: Beskidy > Karkonosze Mountains > forests of north-eastern Poland. Some seasonal changes in concentrations of metals accumulated in moss and lichens were also indicated. There was observed, i.a., an increase in Cd concentration at the beginning of the growing season, which may be related to low emissions during the heating season. Analysis of the surface distribution of deposition of metals in the studied areas showed a significant contribution of nearby territorial emissions and unidentified local emission sources. The contribution of distant emission to Zn, Hg and Pb deposition levels in the Karkonosze and Beskidy region was also indicated., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with increased risk of thromboembolic complications. One of the markers of the increased risk of hypercoagulable state is platelet hyperreactivity. The aim of the study was to assess impact of arrhythmia on platelet reactivity., Methods: The study included 36 (mean age 48,3; range 21-60) male patients with lone atrial fibrillation, with exclusion of concomitant diseases known to trigger hypercoagulable state. The AF patients underwent cardioversion to restore sinus rhythm and were subsequently under observation for 1month. Echocardiography, ECG and blood collection was performed before cardioversion (T0) and 4weeks after successful cardioversion (T1). During the study period patients have been contacted and examined every week and 24h ECG monitoring was performed. Platelet reactivity was assessed based on changes of CD62 and CD42b expression on platelet surface after stimulation with thrombin. Also changes in MPV were assessed., Results: In all patients sinus rhythm was maintained at the end of the study period, however in 14 patients recurrences of AF were observed, confirmed by 24h ECG monitoring (atrial fibrillation recurrence group - AFR) and 22 patients maintained sinus rhythm throughout the whole study period (SR group). Mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of CD62 on thrombin stimulated platelets decreased significantly 4weeks after electrical cardioversion as compared to T0 (48.04±22.42 vs 41.47±16.03; p<0.01). Also MFI of CD42b on thrombin stimulated platelets decreased significantly 4weeks after electrical cardioversion as compared to T0 (22.16±10.82 vs 12.06±5.99; p<0.0001). Platelets reactivity estimated by CD 62 expression in SR group decreased significantly after 4weeks observation (58.01±15.26 vs 46.57±13.44; p<0.001) opposite to AFR group 35.66±21.87 vs 34.54±16.4; p-ns). Moreover there were significant differences between basal reactivity during AF between SR and AFR groups (58.01±15.26 vs 35.66±21.87; p-0.01). MFI of CD42b on thrombin stimulated platelets decreased significantly both in AFR and SR groups (22.05±11.36 vs 13.8±6.03; p<0.001 and 21.87±14.18 vs 10.04±5.09; p<0005). MPV decreased significantly 4weeks after electrical cardioversion as compared to T0 (8.81±0.19 vs 8.42±0.14; p<0.0001)., Conclusion: The changes of platelet reactivity to thrombin observed after restoration of sinus rhythm in patients prove that arrhythmia intrinsically leads to increased reactivity of platelets., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

(13) C cross-polarization magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (CPMAS NMR) spectroscopy was applied to the identification and characterization of carvedilol (1-(9H-carbazol-4-yloxy)-3-[2-(2-methoxyphenoxy)-ethylamino]-propan-2-ol) in pharmaceutical preparations. Solid-state spectra (standard linewidth and lack of signal multiplicity) of carvedilol indicate that its physical form is the same (freebase form II); no other polymorphic forms were detected. The spectra of excipients, recorded under the same conditions, were helpful in their identification. The differences in chemical shifts for tablets I-VI are insignificant and suggest that there are no strong intermolecular drug-excipient interactions. The drugs from six manufacturers contained the same amount (25 mg) of the active substance per tablet; however, tablets differ in size and thus in the concentration of carvedilol. An attempt at quantitation of carvedilol in the dosage forms was made. The cross-polarization kinetics and other measurement parameters affecting the intensity and reproducibility of the spectra were determined. The results revealed a satisfying relationship between the composition of the tablets and the intensity of selected NMR signals. The (13) C CPMAS NMR technique was found to provide accurate quantification of drugs without any chemical preparation, as shown by the particular case of carvedilol's solid formulations., (Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

The presented experiments show the model of expectation of equine spleen ferritin extraction in a new aqueous two-phase system which was formed by mixing polyethylene glycol (PEG) and hydroxyethyl starch (HES). The tendency of the protein to migrate in the analyzed systems was dependent on the concentrations of HES and PEG as well as PEG molecular weight. The highest concentration of ferritin in the top phase (rich in PEG) was recorded in the system composed of 6% PEG 3000 and 3% HES. The obtained concentration was 0.88 mg mL(-1). The lowest concentration was 0.42 mg mL(-1) in the system composed of 5% PEG 6000 and 1% HES. Next the influence of the magnetic field on ferritin accumulation was analyzed. Selected samples were placed between homogeneous (S/S) or heterogeneous magnetic poles (N/S and S/N). It was observed that after the application of the magnetic field the extraction of ferritin into the PEG rich phase increased in every examined system. That increase was as high as 1.67-fold ferritin concentration in the PEG phase as compared with the total concentration of ferritin in the system before separation. Introduction of the magnetic field to two-phase extraction systems is shown as an effective method of changing the partition coefficient of ferritin., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Development and advances in heart pacing over the last nearly half a century allowed to save numerous lives by providing pacing support in bradycardia and complete heart block. Nevertheless, long-term follow up of patients with implanted pacemaker showed unfavorable remodeling of the heart, both from hemodynamic as well as electrical standpoint. The optimal programmed pacemaker setting, apart from the optimal place for ventricular stimulation, is essential to obtain the best hemodynamic and the clinical after-effects of the stimulation of the heart and to minimize potential unfavorable effects. In patients with dual-chamber pacemaker (DDD) the correct function of the left ventricle of the heart depends mainly on the electric delays between the stimulated chambers. Atrio-ventricular delay (AVD) during dual-chamber pacing influences left ventricle contraction function through preload modulation. Improperly programmed AVD in the DDD pacemaker can have unfavorable hemodynamic results. Various methods have been developed during last few decades (right heart catheterization, ventriculography, peak endocardial acceleration, echocardiography, and impedance cardiography), however only echocardiography and reocardiography are currently in general use. There should be noticed too, that also the application of special algorithms present in modern pacemakers allowing for dynamic changes of the time of the delay represents certain alternative to individual AVD optimization., (Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)