bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associação entre paracoccidioidomicose e câncer
Authors: Rodrigues Gustavo da Silva , Severo Cecília Bittencourt , Oliveira Flávio de Mattos , Moreira José da Silva , Prolla João Carlos , Severo Luiz Carlos
Published: July 2010

OBJETIVO: Analisar a associação entre paracoccidioidomicose (Pcm) e câncer e realizar uma revisão da literatura sobre esse tópico. MÉTODOS: Revisão retrospectiva de 25 casos diagnosticados com Pcm e câncer, extraídos de uma série de 808 casos consecutivos de pacientes adultos diagnosticados com Pcm com base nos testes realizados no Laboratório de Micologia da Santa Casa Complexo Hospitalar de Porto Alegre (RS), entre 1972 e 2007. O diagnóstico de Pcm foi confirmado através de exame microscópico direto, exame histopatológico ou imunodifusão. Todos os casos de câncer foram confirmados por exame histopatológico ou citopatológico. RESULTADOS: Sintomas respiratórios foram as principais queixas dos pacientes. O envolvimento pulmonar foi o achado mais predominante, seguido pelo tegumentar e linfático. O tipo de tumor mais prevalente foi o carcinoma brônquico, em 15 casos, seguido de outros tipos de carcinoma, e 1 paciente apresentou linfoma de Hodgkin. Em 16 pacientes (64%), o sítio de Pcm era o mesmo do tumor. Na maioria dos casos, o tratamento de Pcm consistiu na administração isolada de sulfanilamida, sulfametoxazol-trimetoprim, cetoconazol, itraconazol ou anfotericina B. A cirurgia foi o tratamento mais comum para o câncer, seguida de radioterapia e quimioterapia. Dos 25 pacientes, 12 foram curados para Pcm, e 4 faleceram. Em 9, o desfecho final era desconhecido. A prevalência de câncer de pulmão na população geral na área em estudo foi significativamente maior em fumantes com Pcm que em fumantes sem Pcm (p < 0,001). CONCLUSÕES: .O diagnóstico de Pcm parece aumentar o risco de câncer de pulmão.
Síndrome respiratória aguda grave causada por influenza A (subtipo H1N1)
Authors: Ribeiro Sandra Aparecida , Brasileiro Graziela Sgreccia , Soleiman Luciana Novaes Campello , Silva Cristiano Cruz , Kavaguti Cláudio Shoki
Published: July 2010

Frente à pandemia causada por um novo vírus, influenza A (H1N1), descrevemos o caso de um paciente de 56 anos com síndrome respiratória aguda grave causada por influenza A (H1N1) sem fatores de risco importantes. Os resultados dos exames laboratoriais e de imagem (radiografia e TC de tórax) são apresentados aqui. O paciente teve boa evolução e recebeu alta hospitalar em 14 dias.
Fishes on coral reefs: changing roles over the past 240 million years
Authors: Goatley Christopher H. R. , Bellwood David R. , Bellwood Orpha
Published: July 2010

Key morphological traits reveal changes in functional morphospace occupation of reef fish assemblages over time. We used measurements of key functional attributes (i.e., lower jaw length and orbit diameter) of 208 fossil fish species from five geological periods to create bivariate plots of functional morphological traits through time. These plots were used to examine possible function and ecological characteristics of fossil reef fish assemblages throughout the Mesozoic and Cenozoic. A previously unknown trend of increasing orbit diameter over time became apparent. The Teleostei are the principal drivers of this change. The Eocene appears to mark a dramatic increase in two previously rare feeding modes in fishes: nocturnal feeding and high-precision benthic feeding. Interestingly, members of the Pycnodontiformes had relatively large eyes since the Triassic and appear to be the ecological precursors of their later teleost counterparts and may have been among the earliest nocturnal feeding fishes. Our results highlight potential changes in the roles of fishes on coral reefs through time.
Occupancy, range size, and phylogeny in Eurasian Pliocene to Recent large mammals
Authors: Carotenuto Francesco , Barbera Carmela , Raia Pasquale
Published: July 2010

Temporal patterns in species occupancy and geographic range size are a major topic in evolutionary ecology research. Here we investigate these patterns in Pliocene to Recent large mammal species and genera in Western Eurasia. By using an extensively sampled fossil record including some 700 fossil localities, we found occupancy and range size trajectories over time to be predominantly peaked among both species and genera, meaning that occupancy and range size reached their maxima midway along taxon existence. These metrics are strongly correlated with each other and to body size, after phylogeny is accounted for by using two different phylogenetic topologies for both species and genera. Phylogenetic signal is strong in body size, and weaker but significant in both occupancy and range size mean values among genera, indicating that these variables are heritable. The intensity of phylogenetic signal is much weaker and often not significant at the species level. This suggests that within genera, occupancy and range size are somewhat variable. However, sister taxa inherit geographic position (the center of their geographic distribution). Taken together, the latter two results indicate that sister species occupy similar positions on the earth's surface, and that the expansion of the geographic range during the existence of a given genus is driven by range expansion of one or more of the species it includes, rather than simply being the summation of these species ranges.
Experimental analysis of the cyclic behaviour of kaolin at high temperature
Authors: CEKEREVAC C. , LALOUI L.
Published: July 2010

This paper presents the results of an experimental study related to thermal effects on kaolin clay cyclic mobility. The thermal effects were identified by comparing the experimental results of cyclic triaxial tests performed at high temperature (90°C) with results of the same type of test carried out at ambient temperature (22°C). For the testing, a new temperature-controlled triaxial apparatus, developed by the authors, was employed. Experimental evidence shows that shear cycles on the heated samples induced smaller axial strain and pore-water pressure per cycle in comparison with the unheated samples. In addition, shear-induced pore-water pressure at large strains in the heated sample was slightly lower than in the unheated sample. In other words, the heated samples behaved as if they were denser, which is a result of thermal hardening. These results may be applied in geotechnical and earthquake engineering applications as a soil improvement technique.
Influence of large-scale inhomogeneities on a construction dewatering system in chalk
Authors: BEVAN M.A. , POWRIE W. , ROBERTS T.O.L.
Published: July 2010

Large-scale anisotropy and inhomogeneities resulting from the presence of fissures, fractures and high-permeability zones can have a major impact on local groundwater flows, and affect significantly the performance of a construction dewatering system. A groundwater model for the HS1 Channel tunnel rail link Thames tunnel southern approach excavation is used to show that the observed performance of the construction dewatering system cannot adequately be explained unless such features are incorporated. While experience suggested that such features were likely to be present in this geological setting, at the design stage there was significant uncertainty regarding their scale. Groundwater flow modelling enabled the location and extent of the inhomogeneities present to be deduced in some detail. Features such as highly permeable zones might be identified by more thorough site investigation, including the more widespread use of pumping tests. However, the influence of anisotropy is harder to establish, primarily because its effect is most significant once a horizontal flow barrier (for example, a retaining wall) is in place, which is generally not the case during site investigation.
Stabilisation of clayey soils with industrial by-products: part B
Authors: Wilkinson A. , Haque A. , Kodikara J.
Published: July 2010

The use of industrial by-products in the stabilisation of problematic soils presents economic, environmental and social benefits. The geotechnical and physico-chemical behaviour of some Australian clayey soils of contrasting mineralogy stabilised with commonly employed industrial by-products has been investigated in the laboratory for developments in pH, plasticity, and undrained shear strength at curing periods of up to 1 year. Stabilising agents including hydrated lime, fly ash and ground granulated blastfurnace slag (‘slag') were utilised. The results of this study showed that soils mixed to moisture contents well above their respective liquid limits developed substantial undrained shear strength directly upon exposure to cementitious stabilisers and continued to gain significant strength thereafter. It is noteworthy that samples treated with slag activated with hydrated lime gained more strength at shorter periods of curing than comparable samples of activated fly ash and samples simply treated with equivalent proportions of hydrated lime. The pH measurements gave an indication of cementitious activity that was closely aligned to the development of undrained shear strength, where a reducing pH was observed to consistently coincide with gains in strength. Plasticity tests indicated that smectite-dominant soils have a reduction in plasticity index, while kaolinite-dominant soils have an increase in plasticity index as strong inter-particle bonds are formed. This study also found that organic matter obstructed cementitious activity. The underlying micromechanical aspects related to geotechnical response have been detailed in an accompanying paper by the authors (part A).
Development of stabilised soils for construction applications
Authors: Hossain K. M. A.
Published: July 2010

Lateritic soils from Papua New Guinea were stabilised with various percentages of rice husk ash (RHA), finely ground natural lime, cement and their combinations. The influence of stabilisers and their combinations was evaluated through Atterberg limits, standard Proctor compaction, unconfined compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, modulus of elasticity and California bearing ratio (CBR) tests. The durability of 38 stabilised soil mixtures was also investigated by studying the influence of water immersion on strength, water sorptivity and drying shrinkage. Correlations between compressive strength, modulus of elasticity and CBR were also established. Theoretical analysis of pavements incorporating subgrades improved by stabilised lateritic soils under traffic loads showed technical benefits in comparison with conventional flexible pavements without improved subgrades. Suitable stabilised soil mixtures using RHA, lime, cement and their combinations which can be used for the construction of road pavements, airfields, earth dams and low-cost housing are proposed. The use of locally available soils, RHA and lime in the production of stabilised soils for such applications can provide sustainability for the local construction industry.
Space, Place, and Psychosocial Well-Being: Women's Experience of Breast Cancer at an Environmental Retreat
Authors: Pascal Jan
Published: July 2010

Psychosocial oncology research has highlighted the complex experience of living with cancer, encompassing personal and emotional, as well as family, social and community experiences. This article seeks to extend the concept of “psychosocial” to include therapeutic landscapes, and to understand in what ways space and place shape the experience of living with cancer. These ideas are explored with reference to a qualitative study that explored women's experience of breast cancer at an environmental retreat in Victoria, Australia.
But … I Come from the Land of the One-Liner…
Authors: Macpherson Catriona
Published: July 2010

Palliative care professionals often have to negotiate with patients about the profoundly meaningful using non-verbal communication. This case study explores one narrative landscape available to a practitioner working with a patient who is uncomfortable with verbalizing thoughts and feelings and reflects on the challenges and questions it poses.
Optimization of Nonlinear Dose- and Concentration-Response Models Utilizing Evolutionary Computation
Authors: Beam Andrew L. , Motsinger-Reif Alison A.
Published: July 2010

An essential part of toxicity and chemical screening is assessing the concentrated related effects of a test article. Most often this concentration-response is a nonlinear, necessitating sophisticated regression methodologies. The parameters derived from curve fitting are essential in determining a test article's potency (EC50) and efficacy (Emax) and variations in model fit may lead to different conclusions about an article's performance and safety. Previous approaches have leveraged advanced statistical and mathematical techniques to implement nonlinear least squares (NLS) for obtaining the parameters defining such a curve. These approaches, while mathematically rigorous, suffer from initial value sensitivity, computational intensity, and rely on complex and intricate computational and numerical techniques. However if there is a known mathematical model that can reliably predict the data, then nonlinear regression may be equally viewed as parameter optimization. In this context, one may utilize proven techniques from machine learning, such as evolutionary algorithms, which are robust, powerful, and require far less computational framework to optimize the defining parameters. In the current study we present a new method that uses such techniques, Evolutionary Algorithm Dose Response Modeling (EADRM), and demonstrate its effectiveness compared to more conventional methods on both real and simulated data.
Selective Toxicity at Low Doses: Experiments with Three Plant Species and Toxicants
Authors: Sinkkonen Aki , Myyrä Mervi , Penttinen Olli-Pekka , Rantalainen Anna-Lea
Published: July 2010

During the last decade, the paradigm that low toxicant doses often have stimulatory effects on plants has become widely accepted. At the same time, low toxicant doses of metal salts have been observed to inhibit the growth of the most vigorous seedlings of a population in vitro, although mean plant size has remained unaffected. We hypothesized that this kind of selective low-dose toxicity is not restricted to inorganic contaminants. We exposed annual plants (baby's breath Gypsophila elegans, purslane Portulaca oleracea, and duckweed Lemna minor) to 1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethylcyclopenta-γ-2-benzopyran (HHCB) and 4- tert-octylphenol and lead acetate. As compared to unexposed G. elegans roots, 4- tert-octylphenol did not affect the mean root size of all seedlings, but it reduced the average length of roots longer than the 98th percentile. A comparable response was found in case of G elegans roots treated with lead acetate beyond the 90th percentile. The average size of roots beyond the 90th percentile was decreased also when L. minor was exposed to lead acetate though the means of all roots were constant. P. oleracea seemed to be insensitive to selective toxicity. We conclude that selective toxicity at low doses should be considered in parallel with hormesis.
Are Some Neurons Hypersensitive to Metallic Nanoparticles?
Authors: Scott Bobby R.
Published: July 2010

Engineered metallic nanomaterial particles (MENAP) represent a significant breakthrough in developing new products for use by consumers and industry. Skin application (e.g., via creams and sprays containing nanoparticles) may provide a key route of potential intake of MENAP and can lead to retrograde transport from nerve endings in the skin to the somatosensory neurons in dorsal root ganglia (DRG). This paper uses a novel theoretical model (stochastic threshold microdose [STM] model) to characterize survival of DRG neurons exposed in cell culture replicates to copper nanoparticles, based on published data. Cell death via autophagy is assumed here to occur as a result of the uptake (called hits) of the nanoparticles by mitochondria. Theoretical results are presented for the existence of a hypersensitive fraction (about 20%) of neurons that are killed in significant numbers when on average > 1 hit to the at-risk mitochondria occurs. Further, most hypersensitive neurons appear to be killed by a cumulative exposure of about 2,000 micromolar-hours and the remaining resistant cells may have dysfunctional mitochondria. Based on these theoretical findings, it is predicted that repeated exposure (e.g., over years) of the skin of humans to MENAP could lead to significant nervous system damage and related morbidity.
Methamphetamine Preconditioning Causes Differential Changes in Striatal Transcriptional Responses to Large Doses of the Drug
Authors: Cadet Jean Lud , Brannock Christie , Ladenheim Bruce , McCoy Michael T. , Beauvais Genevieve , Hodges Amber B. , Lehrmann Elin , Wood William H. , Becker Kevin G. , Krasnova Irina N.
Published: July 2010

Methamphetamine (METH) is a toxic drug of abuse, which can cause significant decreases in the levels of monoamines in various brain regions. However, animals treated with progressively increasing doses of METH over several weeks are protected against the toxic effects of the drug. In the present study, we tested the possibility that this pattern of METH injections might be associated with transcriptional changes in the rat striatum, an area of the brain which is known to be very sensitive to METH toxicity and which is protected by METH preconditioning. We found that the presence and absence of preconditioning followed by injection of large doses of METH caused differential expression in different sets of striatal genes. Quantitative PCR confirmed METH-induced changes in some genes of interest. These include small heat shock 27 kD proteins 1 and 2 (HspB1 and HspB2), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and heme oxygenase-1 (Hmox-1). Our observations are consistent with previous studies which have reported that ischemic or pharmacological preconditioning can cause reprogramming of gene expression after lethal ischemic insults. These studies add to the growing literature on the effects of preconditioning on the brain transcriptome.
Validating the Probe-to-Bone Test and Other Tests for Diagnosing Chronic Osteomyelitis in the Diabetic Foot
Authors: Morales Lozano Rosario , González Fernández Maria L. , Martinez Hernández David , Beneit Montesinos Juan V. , Guisado Jiménez Sagrario , Gonzalez Jurado Maximo A.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

To compare the diagnostic characteristics of tests used for a prompt diagnosis of chronic osteomyelitis in the diabetic foot, using bone histology as the criterion standard. The tests assessed were probe-to-bone (PTB), clinical signs of infection, radiography signs of osteomyelitis, and ulcer specimen culture.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A prospective study was performed on patients with foot ulcers referred to our diabetic foot clinic. Ulcer infection was diagnosed by recording clinical signs of infection and taking specimens for culture. The presumptive diagnosis of osteomyelitis was based on these results and the findings of a plain X-ray and PTB test. All patients with a clinical suspicion of bone infection were subjected to surgical treatment of the affected bone. During surgery, bone specimens were obtained for a histological diagnosis of osteomyelitis.

RESULTS

Over 2.5 years, 210 foot lesions were consecutively examined and 132 of these wounds with clinical suspicion of infection selected as the study sample. Of these, 105 (79.5%) lesions were diagnosed as osteomyelitis. Among the tests compared, the best results were yielded by the PTB test including an efficiency of 94%, sensitivity of 98%, specificity of 78%, positive predictive value of 95%, and negative predictive value of 91% (P < 0.001, κ 0.803); the positive likelihood ratio was 4.41, and the negative likelihood ratio was 0.02 (95% CI).

CONCLUSIONS

In our outpatient population with a high prevalence of osteomyelitis, the PTB test was of greatest diagnostic value, especially for neuropathic ulcers, and proved to be efficient for detecting osteomyelitis in the diabetic foot.
Elements of Natural Radioactive Decay Series in Iranian Drinking Water and Cigarettes
Authors: Mohammadi Saeed
Published: July 2010

Elements of Natural Radioactive Decay Series in Iranian Drinking Water and Cigarettes

The uranium (238U) decay series provides the most important isotopes of elements radium (226Ra), radon (222Rn), and polonium (210Po) with half-lives of about 1600 years, 3.8 days, and 140 days, respectively. Although the chemical structure of radium is very similar to calcium, the fact that it produces a radioactive gas (radon) complicates its handling in the laboratory and natural environment. In this study, we used the average concentrations of naturally occurring radionuclide 226Ra in drinking water at different parts of Iran to estimate the annual effective dose. In the other part of the study, we measured the concentrations of 210Po in Iranian cigarettes to estimate the internal intake of this radionuclide and its concentration in the lung tissues of smokers. The results indicate that the average concentration of 226Ra in Iranian drinking water was below the 100 mBq L-1 recommended by the World Health Organization while the average concentration of 210Po and 210Pb in Iranian cigarettes was relatively high in comparison with other cigarettes found on the market.
Knowledge of HCV Infection Among Nursing Students of the Medical College of Bitola
Authors: Prodanovska-Stojčevska Viktorija , Isjanovska Rozalinda , Popova-Ramova Elizabeta
Published: July 2010

Knowledge of HCV Infection Among Nursing Students of the Medical College of Bitola

Healthcare workers are at risk of occupationally-acquired viral infections such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C (HCV). HCV is parenterally transmitted and has been found in every part of the world. This cross-sectional study was conducted to establish the awareness and attitude about HCV infections among 210 full-time and part-time nursing students of the Medical College in Bitola, Macedonia ‘from May to June 2009. For this purpose we used a self-administered questionnaire which consisted of three parts. The first included demographic data, the second included questions about causes of infection, mode of transmission, symptoms, acute and chronic hepatitis, and prevention, and the third questions about students’ attitude toward patients with suspect or confirmed HCV infection. Full-time students showed higher HCV awareness (84 %) than part-time students (69 %). 58 % of the full-time and 79 % of the part-time students said they would not avoid professional contact with suspect or HCV infected patients. Our study has shown that even though both groups of students have a sufficient knowledge about HCV to face future challenges, they need further education on the subject. Practical recommendations would help to reduce stigmatising behaviour still further.
Protective Effects of Selenium, Calcium, and Magnesium Against Arsenic-Induced Oxidative Stress in Male Rats
Authors: Srivastava Deepti , Subramanian Ramlingam , Madamwar Datta , Flora Swaran
Published: July 2010

Protective Effects of Selenium, Calcium, and Magnesium Against Arsenic-Induced Oxidative Stress in Male Rats

Inorganic arsenic is a potent carcinogen and environmental pollutant. More than one hundred million people are reported to be exposed to elevated concentrations of arsenic mainly via drinking water. Essential trace elements can affect toxicity of metals by interacting with metals at the primary site of action and can also modify the body's response to toxic metals by altering their metabolism and transport. This study investigates the effects of concomitant administration of selenium, magnesium, and calcium with arsenic on blood biochemistry and oxidative stress. Selenium was the most effective in reducing arsenic-induced inhibition of blood δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) activity and liver oxidative stress. Calcium and magnesium also showed favourable effects on haematological and other biochemical parameters. Because selenium was the most effective, it should be added to chelation therapy to achieve the best protective effects against arsenic poisoning in humans.
Genome Instability and Bleomycin Sensitivity Test
Authors: Milić Mirta
Published: July 2010

Genomska nestabilnost i test osjetljivosti na bleomicin

Procjena individualne osjetljivosti na mutagene često je dio istraživanja u epidemiološkim studijama koje prate pojavnost zloćudnih bolesti u populacijama. Posljedica djelovanja mutagena u genomu izloženih osoba jest nastanak osoba jest nastanak određene, manje ili veće, količine oštećenja, uvjetovane individualnim razlikama u osjetljivosti. Viša razina takve genomske nestabilnosti znači opasnost (rizik) od razvoja zloćudnih bolesti. Interindividualne razlike u odgovoru na mutagene obično se povezuju i s promijenjenom (većinom smanjenom) sposobnosti (kapacitetom) za popravak DNA. Citogenetičke studije su pokazale da je genom tumorskih stanica nestabilniji od normalnih, a time i skloniji akumuliranju oštećenja, bilo da je nestabilnost uzrokovana nasljeđem, izloženošću ili kombinacijom tih dvaju učinaka. U oboljelih ispitanika utvrđena je povećana učestalost kromatidnih i kromosomskih aberacija naspram normalne populacije te sklonost razvoju određenih vrsta neoplazija. U praćenju povezanosti promijenjenog odgovora i pojavnosti tumora služe nam različiti biomarkeri. Kao indirektni pokazatelji uspješnosti popravka DNA često se rabe testovi osjetljivosti na mutagene u kulturama limfocita periferne krvi. Jedan od takvih testova je i bleomicinski test. Radiomimetik i citostatik, a po strukturi glikopeptid, bleomicin se u stanici prevodi u aktivni oblik sposoban cijepati molekulu DNA što uzrokuje brojne jednolančane i dvolančane lomove. Kao jednostavna i jeftina metoda, zasniva se na utvrđivanju ukupnog broja jednolančanih lomova u kromosomima limfocita uzgajanih u staničnoj kulturi koji su u uvjetimain vitrotijekom kasne G2-faze staničnog ciklusa bili izloženi bleomicinu. Ovaj revijalni rad daje pregled utjecaja raznih faktora na rezultate samog testa i pokazuje njegovu široku primjenu u proučavanju genomske nestabilnosti koju najčešće uzrokuje kombinacija raznih faktora.
Determination of Aspergillus Fumigatus Allergen 1 in Poultry Farms Using the Enzyme Immunoassay
Authors: Prester Ljerka , Macan Jelena , Matković Kristina , Vučemilo Marija
Published: July 2010

Determination ofAspergillus FumigatusAllergen 1 in Poultry Farms Using the Enzyme Immunoassay

Poultry farms contain high levels of allergenic fungi, andAspergillusspp. is the most common genus of moulds.Aspergillus fumigatusantigens are responsible for the development of several respiratory diseases including asthma. The aim of this study was to measure the mass fraction of Asp f 1, a major allergen ofAsperillus fumigatusin 37 indoor dust samples collected from four poultry farms in a rural area of the Zagreb County (Croatia) using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. More than 62 % of dust samples had detectable Asp f 1 levels (limit of detection 3.6 ng g-1). The overall mean Asp f 1 level was 17.9 ng g-1[range (3.8 to 72.4) ng g-1]. Satisfactory results were obtained for analytical within-run imprecision (6.7 %), between-run imprecision (10.5 %), and accuracy (91 % to 115 %). Microclimate parameters (air temperature, relative humidity, and velocity) were within the recommended ranges in all poultry farms. This study has shown that Asp f 1 settles on dust at poultry farms and that occupational exposure to this allergen deserves monitoring in livestock buildings.
Normal and Cut-Off Values of the Cytokinesis-Block Micronucleus Assay on Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes in the Croatian General Population
Authors: Kopjar Nevenka , Kašuba Vilena , Milić Mirta , Rozgaj Ružica , Želježić Davor , Gajski Goran , Mladinić Marin , Garaj-Vrhovac Vera
Published: July 2010

Normalne i granične vrijednosti mikronukleus-testa na limfocitima periferne krvi u ispitanika opće populacije Republike Hrvatske

Mikronukleus (MN) test na limfocitima periferne krvi jedna je od najvažnijih metoda koje se primjenjuju u citogenetičkom nadzoru. Osnovni preduvjet za primjenu nekog testa u svrhu nadzora profesionalno izloženih populacija jest poznavanje normalnih vrijednosti promatranoga biološkog pokazatelja (biomarkera) u kontrolnoj populaciji. Baze podataka na razini opće populacije moraju se redovito obnavljati novim podacima. Cilj ovog istraživanja bio je utvrditi normalne i granične vrijednosti MN-testa na limfocitima periferne krvi 200 zdravih ispitanika obaju spolova iz opće populacije Republike Hrvatske te ispitati koji čimbenici pridonose spontanom nastanku MN. Na razini istražene populacije utvrđeno je prosječno (6,90±3,32) MN (medijan 7 MN), dok je raspon pojedinačnih vrijednosti iznosio 0 do 18 MN u 1000 binuklearnih stanica. Gornja granična vrijednost dobivena izračunavanjem 95. percentila za cjelokupnu promatranu populaciju iznosi 12,5 MN na 1000 limfocita. Utvrđeno je da na spontani nastanak MN utječu spol, dob i navika pušenja. Žene u prosjeku imaju više vrijednosti svih parametara MN-testa od muškaraca, a u njih je bio i naglašeniji porast vrijednosti citogenetičkog nalaza zbog navike pušenja. Kako su literaturni podaci o utjecaju pušenja cigareta na nastanak MN kontradiktorni, planiran je nastavak istraživanja radi razjašnjavanja utjecaja dnevno utrošenog broja cigareta i ukupnog trajanja pušačkog staža na vrijednosti parametara MN-testa. Usporedba rezultata s literaturnim podacima potvrdila je da su dobivene vrijednosti u skladu s vrijednostima MN-testa zabilježenim na općoj populaciji u drugim svjetskim laboratorijima. Normalne i granične vrijednosti MN-testa utvrđene u ovome istraživanju poslužit će kao osnova za usporedbu i tumačenje nalaza MN-testa u ispitanika izloženih populacija te daljnju nadogradnju laboratorijske baze podataka.
Some results on certain classes of multivalently analytic functions based on differential subordination involving a convolution structure
Authors: Prajapat J. , Raina R.
Published: July 2010

Making use of the familiar convolution structure of analytic functions, we introduce a general class of multivalently analytic functions and derive various useful properties and characteristics of this function class by using the techniques of differential subordination. Several other results are presented exhibiting relevant connections to some of the results obtained in earlier works.
Changes in condition and in carapace length and width of the Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis H. Milne Edwards, 1853) harvested in the Odra River estuary in 1999-2007
Authors: Czerniejewski Przemysław
Published: July 2010

Changes in condition and in carapace length and width of the Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis H. Milne Edwards, 1853) harvested in the Odra River estuary in 1999-2007

Carapace length and width as well as condition were analysed in 2336 Chinese mitten crabs, Eriocheir sinensis, caught in 1999-2007 in the Odra River estuary (Poland). Their condition was assessed using the Fulton coefficient and the carapace width-individual weight relationship. September through November catches netted the highest number of crabs (83.60% of the total sample); males accounted for 53.56% of the crabs caught at that time. Males showed a significantly higher mean individual weight, significantly higher carapace width and length, and a higher Fulton coefficient than the females. The lowest mean individual weight, carapace width and length, and the highest condition coefficients were recorded in those crabs caught in 1999-2000. Later on, the mean carapace width and individual weight increased, and the increase was accompanied by a reduction in condition of the crabs. Causes of the differences are being sought in environmental changes taking place in the Odra estuary.
The chemistry of water and bottom sediments in relation to zooplankton biocenosis in small agricultural ponds
Authors: Joniak Tomasz , Kuczyńska-Kippen Natalia
Published: July 2010

The chemistry of water and bottom sediments in relation to zooplankton biocenosis in small agricultural ponds

This study analyzed the chemistry and structure of planktonic fauna communities in small water bodies located within agricultural areas of different levels of anthropogenic transformation in the Wielkopolska region. Distance from farm buildings was a decisive factor when choosing the bodies of water for this study. A distinctive feature of the chemical characteristics of the examined water bodies was a high concentration of biogenic substances. The presence of biologically available mineral elements stimulated the development of algae, which was reflected in high concentrations of chlorophyll. High trophic conditions in the waters of the investigated ponds were also confirmed when analyzing the zooplankton community structure.
The oxygen budget of two closed, dimictic lakes in the vicinity of Bytów (West Pomeranian Lake District, northern Poland)
Authors: Witek Zbigniew , Jarosiewicz Anna
Published: July 2010

The oxygen budget of two closed, dimictic lakes in the vicinity of Bytów (West Pomeranian Lake District, northern Poland)

The aim of this work was to identify key factors governing the oxygen fluxes in two thermally stratified lakes of different morphology. Oxygen and temperature profiles in lakes Jeleń and Mały Borek, as well as phytoplankton primary production in Mały Borek (oxygen-method) were measured in monthly intervals, except for periods of ice cover. Rates of oxygen release due to photosynthesis, consumption in the water column, loss to atmosphere, depletion in the hypolimnion, and restoration during periods of turn-over were roughly estimated. It was discovered that trophic conditions and morphometry may substantially influence not only the intensity, but also the timing, of particular events in the oxygen cycle of the lakes.
The structure of phosphorus compounds in mid-forest humic lakes
Authors: Joniak Tomasz
Published: July 2010

The structure of phosphorus compounds in mid-forest humic lakes

This study presents the vertical distribution of phosphorus fractions in three postglacial mid-forest humic lakes: oligohumic, mesohumic, and polyhumic. Total phosphorus concentrations were similar in these humic lakes (mean 76 μg 1-1 P). The greatest share of phosphorus was in mineral fractions, while a lesser share was in organic, especially soluble, fractions. Concentrations of mineral forms (phosphates and polyphosphates) were the lowest at the time of maximum development of phytoplankton, especially of bacterioplankton near the bottom of the oligohumic lake. An exceptionally high participation of soluble polyphosphates was found in the polyhumic lake near the surface.
Algae assemblages in the Rαbień peat-bog reserve
Authors: Rakowska Barbara , Sitkowska Małgorzata
Published: July 2010

Algae assemblages in the Rαbień peat-bog reserve

Due to anthropogenic stress, the character of the Rαbień peat-bog reserve is changing, and large parts of it are being transformed into a transitional peat-bog. During more than 23 years of research, considerable changes have been noted in water pH (from 4.63 to 6.64), trophic status, and the species composition of algae. The subject of the research carried out in 2004—2005 were Bacillariophyceae and Chlorophyta. A decrease was observed in the number of species characteristic of high peat-bogs in favor of alkaliphilic species and those occurring in eutrophic waters.
Institutional Problems of Regional Development in Russia
Authors: Syssoeva Natalia
Published: July 2010

Institutional Problems of Regional Development in Russia

The paper presents problems of spatial policy in Russia related to the formation of institutional conditions for regional development. Development institutions are characterised in terms of three functional groups. Distributive institutions reallocate funds between regions and they are the main subject of research on development factors. Problems of the redistribution sphere include losses of regions and municipalities in rental payments and household incomes. Transformational institutions contribute to the transformation of income into investment, and their effectiveness depends upon the quality of human capital and forms of relationships in local and regional communities. Organising institutions are usually formed by the state to arrange and stimulate the implementation of measures determined by the state regional development policy. The programme of economic and social development of Siberia is analysed as an example of institutional framework construction. The role of informal norms in institutional environment development is stressed.
Competitiveness of the Wielkopolska Region in Terms of a Knowledge-Based Economy
Authors: Czyż Teresa
Published: July 2010

Competitiveness of the Wielkopolska Region in Terms of a Knowledge-Based Economy

In the study of the competitiveness of the Wielkopolska region it is assumed that in modern times the foundation of a competitive advantage is a knowledge-based economy (KBE). The aim of the article is to analyse the competitiveness of the Wielkopolska region (voivodeship) in terms of KBE in comparison with the country's regional system. Four dimensions of the region's competitiveness are distinguished, representing factors of KBE development and effects of their operation in the economic sphere. With the help of principal components analysis, indices of the region's competitiveness are obtained.
Effectiveness of Interventions Co-Financed by the Eu Structural Funds in Wielkopolska in the Years 2004-2006
Authors: Churski Paweł , Borowczak Anna
Published: July 2010

Effectiveness of Interventions Co-Financed by the Eu Structural Funds in Wielkopolska in the Years 2004-2006

The aim of this article is to analyse the effectiveness of interventions from the EU Structural Funds in Wielkopolska carried out for investments realised in the years 2004-2006, i.e. in the first period of implementing Community regional policy in Poland. The research procedure is composed of two fundamental stages. In the first, projects co-financed from the EU Structural Funds within the framework of the Regional Component of the Integrated Regional Operational Programme were systematised by the criterion of intervention direction within each of the three dimensions of cohesion: economic, social and territorial. In the second stage, selected diagnostic measures for each dimension of cohesion were subjected to effectiveness analysis. The procedure rested on a questions/methods-oriented model applied in line with the theory-driven evaluation approach, a quasiexperimental design and the difference-in-differences technique, as well as methods of econometric analysis. The results made it possible to assess public intervention in Poland in terms of its effectiveness, and to identify challenges that have to be faced very soon.
Increase in root nodulation and crop yield of soybean by native Bradyrhizobium japonicum strains
Authors: Dhami Namraj , Prasad Braj Nandan
Published: July 2010

Native strains of Bradyrhizobium japonicum were tested for their effectiveness on nodulation, crop yield and nitrogen fixation in soybean (Glycine max). B. japonicum strains were isolated from soybean root nodules collected from different agro-climatic regions of Far Western Nepal, viz. Dipayal (607 m asl), Dadeldhura (1097 m asl), Silgadhi (1209 m asl) and Bajura (1524 m asl). The strains were characterized by studying colony characteristics, growth response with Congo red and Bromothymol blue, and Gram staining. The native bradyrhizobial strains were authenticated by performing infection test on soybean seedlings. All the four strains were found compatible and effective on root nodulation, crop yield and soil nitrogen (N) content. Inoculation of these strains increased soybean root nodulation by 247-343% and crop yield by 45-204%. There was strong positive correlation (r = 0.982) between number of root nodules and crop yield, which suggest that optimization of root nodulation by inoculating compatible and effective B. japonicum strains significantly increase the soybean crop yield. Soil N content of inoculated experimental pots was increased by 13-33%. However, variability among different strains was observed in their effect on root nodulation and yield performance. B. japonicum strain collected from Silgadhi was found to be the most effective in increasing nodule number and crop yield by 343% and 204% respectively. Key-words: Glycine max; gram staining; inoculation; nitrogen fixationDOI: 10.3126/botor.v6i0.2902 Botanica Orientalis - Journal of Plant Science (2009) 6: 1-3
Ethnobotany of Dioscorea L. with emphasis on food value in Chepang communities in Dhading district, central Nepal
Authors: Sharma Lila Nath , Bastakoti Rishi
Published: July 2010

Chepang, inhabiting the rugged terrain of Mahabharat and Churia range in central Nepal, is a group of indigenous people suffering from severe food insecurity. Their ancestors lived a semi-nomadic life up to one and half century back. To a large extent, Chepang still continue their traditional way of living, which includes collection of wild tubers (‘kandamul'), hunting and fishing. Chepangs are especially connected with the tubers of Dioscorea spp. Wild and cultivated species of Dioscorea are being used as sources of carbohydrates to supplement cereal food. However, dependency on such wild food is decreasing with adoption of agriculture. In this study we documented local knowledge on the diversity and use of Dioscorea species among Chepang in Dhusa and Jogimara Village Development Committees in Dhading district. Ethnobotanical data were collected through semi-structured interviews, forest transect walk and participatory observations. Out of 13 species of Dioscorea reported from all over Nepal, 10 species have been recorded from the study area. Chepang people use one species (Dioscorea deltoidea) as detergent and the rest nine species are exclusively used as food although many of them have multiple utilities. Chepang people have diverse knowledge in the identification, processing and consumption of wild tubers of Dioscorea spp. and such knowledge might have developed as a strategy to combat severe food scarcity. Use of disproportionately higher number of Dioscorea species by a single ethnic group and within a comparatively small territory indicates very close affinity of local cultural practice and the nature. The richness of knowledge associated with wild tubers and high dependency of Chepang on them is the manifestation of severe food insecurity and traditional mode of life due to their social and economic isolation for long time. Key-words: food insecurity; indigenous knowledge; tubers; wild edible plants.DOI: 10.3126/botor.v6i0.2905 Botanica Orientalis - Journal of Plant Science (2009) 6: 12-17
Taxonomy of the genus Commelina Plum. ex L. (Commelinaceae) in Nepal
Authors: Gajurel Jyoti P , Shrestha Krishna K
Published: July 2010

About 170 species of Commelina are known from tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Nepal contributes 6 species of Commelina to the world flora. In the present work, taxonomy of all the six species of Commelina reported from Nepal (C. benghalensis, C. caroliniana, C. diffusa, C. maculata, C. paludosa and C. suffruticosa) was studied. Voucher specimens were collected from Central and Eastern Nepal, covering 14 districts. Morphological characters were studied from these collections. Palynological and anatomical characters were also used to see if they are taxonomically important to delimit the taxa within Commelina. Morphological characters seemed promising to delimit the taxa within Commelina. The key identifying characters at species level are modification in root, form of spathe, structure of leaves and seeds, shape of stomata and pollen. Palynological and anatomical characters were also useful, to some extent, in separating some species, but were not significant as compared to morphological data. Some specimens, close to C. benghalensis and C. caroliniana, showed very different characters. Thus further study is needed to confirm their taxonomic status. Key-words: anatomy; flora; morphological characters; palynology; voucher specimens.DOI: 10.3126/botor.v6i0.2907 Botanica Orientalis - Journal of Plant Science (2009) 6: 25-31
Systematic study of six species of Arisaema Mart. (Araceae) of Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Nawal
Published: July 2010

The genus Arisaema is represented by sixteen species in Nepal. They are distributed in sub-tropical, temperate to sub-alpine regions at an elevation ranging from 300 to 4000 m asl. The present study includes six representative species of Arisaema occurring in Nepal. The aim is to investigate the interrelationship between the taxa on the basis of morphological and anatomical evidence. The work is based on the herbarium specimens deposited at TUCH and KATH as well as personal collections of the author. Key-words: endemic species; revision; spadix; spathe; taxonomy.DOI: 10.3126/botor.v6i0.2908 Botanica Orientalis - Journal of Plant Science (2009) 6: 32-38
Medicinal plants in Rasuwa district, central Nepal: trade and livelihood
Authors: Humagain Kamal , Shrestha Krishna K
Published: July 2010

The present paper deals with the study conducted during 2006-2008 to assess trade pattern of important medicinal plants in Chilime Village Development Committee (VDC) of Rasuwa district, Nepal. Chilime VDC is one of the important trade centres of medicinal plants in the district. We documented 60 species of important medicinal plants, including 26 species involved in trade. Among them, 12 most potentially traded species, which have been given high priority by the collectors and traders, were selected for the study of their market potential and their contribution to the local livelihood. About 40% of the households of Chilime VDC were found to be involved in the collection and trade of medicinal plants. Most of the collection (90%) was for trade, which has supported up to 40% of family income contributing average household net profit of NRs 9,000 per year. The local traders were also making a good profit from medicinal plants with annual net contribution of about NRs 0.25 million per trader. But only 50% of actual traded quantity was registered at DFO resulting low revenue collection (only 43% of the expected). This shows that illegal trade is a common practice in the area by which the local traders increase their profit because they do not have to pay revenue. Thus strong mechanisms should be developed to stop illegal trade of medicinal plants and to promote revenue generation. Key-words: Langtang National Park; NTFPs; revenue; Tamang; trade channel.DOI: 10.3126/botor.v6i0.2909 Botanica Orientalis - Journal of Plant Science (2009) 6: 39-46
Parthenium hysterophorus L., a noxious invasive weed
Authors: Paudel Vivek Ranjan
Published: July 2010

Parthenium hysterophorus L., a member of the family Asteraceae and native to subtropics of North and South America, is an invasive plant species that colonizes disturbed areas, cultivated lands, roadside vegetation, and human settlement areas. The weed has prolific seed producing ability and fast spreading in nature. The plant is rapidly infesting into tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Its occurrence in Kathmandu valley was reported first time in 1986. The seeds are highly viable and adaptive and can travel long distance with the help of its wing like structures at the base. They can anchor on rough surfaces with the help of feathered claws like structures. The weed is being very problematic because of its aggressiveness, allelopathic impacts, and health hazard risks for human and livestock. The weed posses different allelochemicals, specially sesquiterpenes and phenolics, parthenin being the chief one. The weed adversely affects crop plants and sensitive grass species. Besides it causes hay fever, dermatitis, skin infections, bronchitis and several other health impacts. The control of the weed is a challenging task; however, different herbicides and some biological agents have been reported for its management. Key words: allelochemicals; allelopathy; health hazard; Nepal; parthenin; sesquiterpene.DOI: 10.3126/botor.v6i0.2915 Botanica Orientalis - Journal of Plant Science (2009) 6: 85-92