bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of CYP1A in the hepatopancreas of Merluccius merluccius, Trigla lucerna, and Liza ramada (pisces) in the wider vicinity of Bar harbor Montenegro
Authors: Mihailovic Mirjana , Arambasic Jelena , Bogojevic Desanka , Dinic Svetlana , Grdovic Nevena , Grigorov Ilijana , Ivanovic-Matic Svetlana , Labus-Blagojevic Svetlana , Martinovic Vesna , Petrovic M. , Uskokovic Aleksandra , Vidakovic Melita , Poznanovic G.
Published: February 2009

The expression of CYP1A, a biomarker for the presence of xenobiotic compounds, was examined in three fish species from the wider vicinity of Bar harbor in winter and spring. Induction of CYP1A was observed in winter and increased further in spring. Several PCBs were found in seawater in winter. They decreased below the limit of detection in spring, when the PAH fluorene was detected. It is concluded that the constant presence of CYP1A expression is probably due to pollutants in the environment, whereas increased expression of CYP1A in spring results from exposure of the fish to fluorene. .
Proteinases from buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum moench) seeds: Purification and properties of the 47 kDa enzyme
Authors: Timotijevic Gordana , Radovic Svetlana , Maksimovic Vesna
Published: February 2009

Aspartic proteinases from buckwheat seeds are analyzed. Three forms of 47 kDa, 40 kDa and 28 kDa, were purified from mature buckwheat seeds, while two forms of 47 kDa and 28 kDa were detected in developing buckwheat seeds using pepstatin A affinity chromatography. A form of 47 kDa was selectively precipitated from other forms by ammonium sulfate precipitation. This enzyme resembles the chymosin-like pattern of proteolytic activity, as it was shown using BSA and k-casein as substrates, clarifying its ability for milk-clotting. The 47 kDa aspartic proteinase form is localized in the membrane fraction. .
Effect of medium pH and cultivation period on mycelial biomass, polysaccharide, and ligninolytic enzyme production by Ganoderma lucidum from Montenegro
Authors: Vukojevic Jelena , Stajic Mirjana , Duletic-Lausevic Sonja , Simonic Jasmina
Published: February 2009

The effect of initial medium pH on biomass, extracellular and intracellular polysaccharide, and ligninolytic enzyme production by Ganoderma lucidum was investigated at different pH values after 7 and 14 days of cultivation. Maximal production of biomass was recorded at pH 4.5 and 5.0; maximal production of extracellular polysaccharides at pH 7.0 and 3.0; and maximal production of intracellular polysaccharides at pH 7.0 and 5.5. Ligninolytic enzymes were not produced at any pH of the medium. Maximal biomass production was obtained on the 11th day of cultivation; maximal extracellular polysaccharide production on the 7th day; and maximal intracellular polysaccharide production on the 6th and 10th day of cultivation. .
Activation of the HSV-TK promoter in control reporter vector pBLCAT5 by liganded nuclear retinoid receptor RXRα
Authors: Nikcevic Gordana , Kovacevic-Grujicic Natasa , Stevanovic Milena
Published: February 2009

Widely used reporter vector systems for studying the putative regulatory DNA elements usually contain basal promoters from pathogenic mammalian viruses. It is a common assumption that reliable results can be achieved only if the viral promoter activity is unaffected by transacting factors or any experimental treatment. Here we report that liganded nuclear retinoid receptor RXRa stimulates the HSV-TK promoter in control reporter vector pBLCAT5. Thus, TK driven reporter vectors should be employed only after thorough testing of the regulation of this promoter under experimental stimuli for a particular research purpose in order to avoid unreliable interpretation of the assay results.
Length-weight gain of European crayfish Astacus astacus (L.) in the area of the upper course of the Zeta river, Montenegro
Authors: Rajkovic Milka , Simic V. , Petrovic Ana
Published: February 2009

This paper presents the results of studying length-weight gain using exponential regression analysis. The gain was analyzed in the Slano, Krupac, and Liverovici Reservoirs and in the Zeta River. Comparing growth at different localities, we found different weight gains. The greatest weight gain exists in the population from the Slano Reservoir. Growth in the first year of life is much more intensive in this area than in populations from the literature we compared it to. .
Effect of the kanamycin resistance marker on stability of 2μ-based expression plasmids
Authors: Stankovic Nada , Vasiljevic Branka , Ljubijankic Goran
Published: February 2009

In this paper we describe the effect of the kanamycin resistance gene (Kmr) on 2?m-based plasmid maintenance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The influence of this marker gene on the loss of the stable model-vectors proved to be constant, as well as independent of carbon source and culture growth rates. In strains for GALUAS - driven heterologous protein production introduction of Kmr resulted in curing of the yeast episomal plasmid (YEp) from the population in a small number of generations. Application of selective pressure on the strain producing recombinant penicillin G amidase (rPGA) did not provide the expected increase of protein yield. The influence of genetic elements for heterologous protein production on vector stability was examined, and the most destabilizing factors prove to be the presence and expression of the foreign gene.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation monitoring in childhood. Hematological diseases in Serbia: STR-PCR techniques
Authors: Krstic Aleksandra , Stojkovic O. , Guc-Scekic Marija , Vujic Dragana , Jevtic Dragana , Varljen Tanja
Published: February 2009

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a very successful method of treatment for children with different aquired or inborn diseases. The main goal of post-transplantation chimerism monitoring in HSCT is to predict negative events (such as disease relapse and graft rejection), in order to intervene with appropriate therapy and improve the probability of long-term DFS (disease free survival). In this context, by quantifying the relative amounts of donor and recipient cells present in the peripheral blood sample, it can be determined if engraftment has taken place at all, or if full or mixed chimerism exists. In a group of patients who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation at the Mother and Child Health Care Institute, we decided to use standard human identfication tests based on multiplex PCR analyses of short tandem repeats (STRs), as they are highly informative, sensitive, and fast and therefore represent an optimal methodological approach to engraftment analysis.
Carbohydrate nutrition and anthocyanin accumulation in light grown and etiolated shoot cultures of carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.)
Authors: Vinterhalter Branka , Ninkovic Slavica , Kozomara Branka , Vinterhalter D.
Published: February 2009

Production of anthocyanins was studied in shoot cultures of carob at high (45.9 ?mol s-1m-2) and low (9.2 ?mol s-1m-2) irradiance levels and in darkness in relation to carbohydrate nutrition. Anthocyanin production was stimulated by light, but it also occurred in etiolated shoot cultures which developed in darkness. Anthocyanins were present in both leaves and shoot tips. The major factor affecting anthocyanin production was carbohydrate nutrition, with sucrose as a choice superior to fructose and glucose. The carbohydrate effect was clearly osmotic in nature, since anthocyanin production increased even at supraoptimal concentrations detrimental to the growth of shoot cultures. This conclusion was further confirmed in experiments in which sucrose was partly replaced with the sugar alcohols sorbitol and mannitol.
The hemp russet mite Aculops cannabicola (Farkas, 1960) (Acari: Eriophyoidea) found on Cannabis sativa L. in Serbia: Supplement to the description
Authors: Petanovic Radmila , Magud Biljana , Smiljanic Dragica
Published: February 2009

The description of Aculops cannabicola (Farkas, 1960), a new species for the fauna of Serbia, is supplemented. The male and juveniles are described for the first time. This species was found as vagrants on leaves of hemp, Cannabis sativa L. A comparison of characters of the population from Serbia and the originally described samples from Hungary is given.
Analysis of the protein and glycan parts of CA125 antigen from human amniotic fluid
Authors: Milutinovic Bojana , Jankovic Miroslava
Published: February 2009

CA125 antigen is a mucin-type molecule with a complex protein backbone and oligosaccharide chain structure. In this study, we characterized CA125 antigen from human amniotic fluid by gel filtration, ion-exchange chromatography, peptide mass fingerprinting and lectin-binding assays. The obtained results indicate CA125 to be structurally heterogeneous, existing in different glycoisoforms with subtle differences in the profile of molecular forms in comparison to placental tissue-derived and cancer-derived CA125 antigen. The complexity of CA125 structure suggests that it can act as a multifunctional molecule. Further investigation is therefore needed in order for the biological meaning of the tissue-specific structural forms to be comprehended fully. .
Cytokinins and urea derivatives stimulate seed germination in Lotus corniculatus L.
Authors: Nikolic Radomirka , Mitic Nevena , Zivkovic Suzana , Grubisic D. , Neskovic Mirjana
Published: February 2009

We studied the effects of various cytokinins and urea derivatives on germination of aged seeds of in Lotus corniculatus L. The following substances were applied: N6-isoprenoid cytokinins (isopentenyl adenine and zeatin), adenine sulfate, N6-aromatic cytokinins (kinetin, benzyladenine) and their N9-ribosides, N-benzyl-9-(2- tetrahydropyranyl)adenine, and urea derivatives (diphenylurea, thidiazuron, and chloro-pyridyl phenylurea). With the exception of adenine sulfate, all cytokinins increased the percentage of seed germination up to twofold, depending on their kind and concentration. It is concluded that cytokinins may be among the missing factors in aged seeds of L. corniculatus contributing to the implementation of their full germination potential. They could be used to improve germination of both freshly harvested and aged seed samples, if necessary. .
In planta transformation of buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.)
Authors: Bratic Ana , Majic Dragana , Miljus-Djukic Jovanka , Jovanovic Z.S. , Maksimovic Vesna
Published: February 2009

In order to develop a reliable and rapid transgenic system for functional study of specific buckwheat gene constructs, two different in planta transformation methods were analyzed: vacuum infiltration and infiltration by syringe. The results indicated that the vacuum infiltration method was much more efficient and can therefore be considered the method of choice for buckwheat transformation. .
Biological characteristics of the species Hedera helix L. and its use in controlling erosion in shady places
Authors: Stavretovic N.
Published: February 2009

Controlling erosion in shady places is among the most serious problems of environment protection, one that requires persistent and strenuous efforts. Ivy (Hedera helix L.) is exceptionally shade-tolerant, covers the ground surface nicely, and is easy to cultivate. For these reasons, it can be used more successfully than any other ground cover to control erosion in shady places. Hardening of ivy cuttings is accomplished with semi-lignified and lignified cuttings. In hardening of cuttings in plastic containers, a substrate composed of garden soil and peat proved to be the most effective. Even when the percentage of ivy cuttings that take is low in shady places subject to erosion, the significance of their presence is great in subsequent years, when the ivy spreads over the ground, covering it and retarding erosion of the soil. .
Rozajella jovanvladimiri gen. N., sp. n. (Leptodirini, Leiodidae, Coleoptera), from east Montenegro, with notes on its phylogeny
Authors: Curcic S.B. , Brajkovic M.M. , Curcic B.P.M. , Waitzbauer W.
Published: February 2009

A new genus and species of cave-dwelling leiodid beetles (Rozajella jovanvladimiri gen. n., sp. n.) has been diagnozed and described from the Pecina u Dubokom Potoku Cave, village of Donje Bisevo, near Rozaje, Eastern Montenegro. This new genus clearly differs from all other close genera in the following correlative traits: body size; shape of head; presence of occipital carina, length of antennae; morphometric ratios and form of certain antennomeres; head/pronotum width ratio; pronotum length/width ratio; form of lateral pronotal margins; pronotal/elytral base length ratio; form of femora and protarsi; presence of apical rows of spines on tibiae; form of elytra; existence of elytral shoulders; length of elytral setae; form of median lobe and its apex; form of inner sac; length of basal bulbus; form of parameres and their apices; distribution of parameral setae; and distribution in the Balkan Peninsula. Rozajella gen. n. belongs to a separate phyletic lineage (s?rie phyl?tique de "Leptodirus" - sensu Perre au 2000) which includes five other genera, Leptostagus Z. Karaman (from Macedonia), Petkovskiella Gu?orguiev (from Macedonia), Astagobius Reitter (from Slovenia and Croatia), Albanodirus Giachino & Vailati (from Albania), and Leptodirus Schmidt (from Slovenia, Croatia, and Italy). The new genus is present in Eastern Montenegro only. The Rozajella-Leptostagus-Petkovskiella-Astagobius-Albanodirus-Leptodirus complex is probably of early Tertiary age, its species having originated during the Alpine Orogeny, which affected vast areas of the Balkan Peninsula, including the Dinarids, otherwise their terra typica. .
Glutathione dependent enzyme activities in the foot of three freshwater mussel species in the Sava river, Serbia
Authors: Perendija Branka , Borkovic Slavica , Kovacevic Tijana , Pavlovic S.Z. , Stojanovic Bojana , Paunovic M.M. , Cakic P.D. , Radojicic R.M. , Pajovic Snezana , Saicic Zorica
Published: February 2009

We investigated activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GR), and the phase II biotransformation enzyme glutathione-S-transferase (GST) in the foot of three freshwater mussel species: Unio pictorum (Up), Unio tumidus (Ut), and Sinanodonta woodiana (Sw) from the Sava River. Specific and total GSH-Px activity was lower in Sw than in Up and Ut. Total GR activity was higher in Up than in Sw. Specific GST activity was higher in Up than in Ut. Total GST activity was higher in Up than in Ut and Sw. Electrophoretic analysis of proteins shows species specifities between the investigated mussel species. Our study represents the first comprehensive report of the investigated glutathione-dependent enzyme activities in the foot of three freshwater mussel species from the Sava River, Serbia. .
Induction of somatic embryogenesis in Pinus heldreichii culture
Authors: Stojicic Dragana , Uzelac Branka , Janosevic Dusica , Culafic Ljubinka , Budimir Snezana
Published: February 2009

The potential for somatic embryogenesis in zygotic embryo and megagametophyte cultures of Pinus heldreichii was examined. Somatic embryogenesis was initiated from megagametophytes containing immature zygotic embryos at early stages of development. An induction frequency of up to 6.7% was obtained on Gresshoff and Doy medium in the presence of 2 mg/l 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 0.5 mg/l benzyladenine (BA). Formation and further proliferation of embryogenic tissue were achieved upon transfer of explants to a medium with reduced levels of growth regulators. Somatic embryos are being cultured for further development. .
The photoperiodic control of growth and development of Chenopodium rubrum L. plants in vitro
Authors: Mitrovic Aleksandra , Giba Z. , Culafic Ljubinka
Published: February 2009

Influence of the photoperiod on growth, flowering, and seed development in vitro of Chenopodium rubrum L., a short day annual, was examined. Chenopodium rubrum plants modify their growth and reproductive development in accordance with the photoperiod. With an increase of day length, growth was stimulated, flowering was delayed, seed development occurred earlier, and the plants produced more seeds. By altering photoperiods during induction and evocation of flowering, it is shown that the photoperiod experienced by seedlings during early reproductive development determines the pattern of plant growth to the end of ontogenesis, the time to flowering, and the course of seed development. It is therefore concluded that growth and reproductive development of C. rubrum are photoperiod-sensitive to during a precise short part of its life cycle. .
Antioxidative enzymes during germination of two lines of Serbian spruce [Picea omorika (Panc.) Purkyně]
Authors: Prodanovic Olivera , Prodanovic R. , Bogdanovic Jelena , Mitrovic Aleksandra , Milosavic N. , Radotic Ksenija
Published: February 2009

Two lines of Picea omorika (Panc.) Purkyn? were compared with respect to germination percentage as well as specific activity and isoenzyme pattern of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase (POD) during germination. Line A had a higher germination percentage and higher enzyme activities in dry seeds and seedlings compared to line C. Peroxidase activity was not detected in dry seeds, but measured up to 10 U/g and 28 U/g on the 7th day of germination in lines C and A, respectively. The most abundant POD basic isoform in seedlings of both lines (pI 8.2) was not found previously in needles of adult Serbian spruce trees of the same lines. .
On some Oniscidea and Diplopoda from the Retezat Massif: First record of Porcellium productum Frankenberger, 1940 and Porcellium recurvatum Verhoeff, 1901 in Romania
Authors: Giurginca A. , Plăiaşu Rodica , Munteanu C.M.
Published: February 2009

Our paper presents a survay of Oniscidea and the Diplopoda from the Retezat Massif in Romania. The first records in Romania of the species Porcellium productum and Porcellium recurvatum have been presented. .
Faunistic study of the aquatic beetles (Coleoptera: Polyphaga) of Markazi Province (Central Iran) with new records
Authors: Vafaei R. , Ostovan H. , Incekara Ü. , Pesic V.
Published: February 2009

In this study, we establish the presence of 24 aquatic beetle (Coleoptera: Polyphaga) species belonging to 13 genera and five families in Markazi Province of Central Iran. Specimens were collected between 2001 and 2005. Eleven species and four genera are recorded from Iran for the first time. The ecological significance of the new records is briefly discussed. .
The growth of Nd:CaWO4 single crystals
Authors: Golubovic Aleksandar , Nikolic Slobodanka , Gajic Rados , Djuric Stevan , Valcic Andreja
Published: February 2009

CaWO4 doped with 0.8 % at. Nd (Nd:CaWO4) single crystals were grown from the melt in air by the Czochralski technique. The critical diameter dc = 1.0 cm and the critical rate of rotation ?c = 30 rpm were calculated from hydrodynamic equations for buoyancy-driven and forced convection. The rate of crystal growth was experimentally obtained to be 6.7 mm/h. For chemical polishing, a solution of 1 part saturated chromic acid (CrO3 in water) and 3 parts conc. H3PO4 (85 %) at 433 K with an exposure time of 2 h was found to be adequate. A mixture of 1 part concentrated HF and 2 parts chromic acid at room temperature after exposure for 30 min was found to be a suitable etching solution. The lattice parameters a = 0.52404 (6) nm, c = 1.1362 (6) nm and V0 = 0.312 (2) nm3 were determined by X-ray powder diffraction. The obtained results are discussed and compared with published data.
Ageing-induced changes of reduced and oxidized glutathione in fragments of maize seedlings
Authors: Dragicevic Vesna , Sredojevic Slobodanka , Spasic Mihajlo , Vrvic Miroslav
Published: February 2009

A trial with four maize inbred lines with the ability to have different durations of seed germination in the course of the accelerated ageing (AA) treatment was set up. Changes of the content of total, reduced and oxidized glutathione (expressed as monomers) were observed in the seeds and seedlings before and after the treatment. For the first time, changes of glutathione in whole seedlings, as well as in the rest of the seed, were analyzed. It was noticed that maize in breds with a smaller decrease of the total glutathione but with an increase of the oxidized form had the ability of prolonged germination. In the control seed- lings, the amount of total glutathione was lower than in the treated ones. Maize seeds which lost germination faster had greater losses of total glutathione with an increased content of the oxidized form in seedlings. The ability of prolonged germination together with the possibility of glutathione synthesis in seedlings are genotypic traits.
Transition metal complexes with thiosemicarbazide-based ligands, part 46: Synthesis and physico-chemical characterization of mixed ligand cobalt(III)-complexes with salicylaldehyde semi-, thiosemi- an
Authors: Leovac Vukadin , Vojinovic Ljiljana , Mesaros-Secenji Katalin , Cesljevic Valerija
Published: February 2009

Mixed ligand octahedral cobalt(III) complexes with the tridentate salicylaldehyde semi-, thiosemi- and isothiosemicarbazone and pyridine of general formula [CoIII(L1-3)(py)3]X(H2L1=salicylaldehyde semicarbazone X=[CIICl3(py)]-, ClO4-.H2O, I-. 0.5 I2; H2L2=salicylaldehyde thiosemicarbazone, X=[CoIICl3(py)]-, CoIIBr3(py)]-, ClO4-. H2O, I3-; H2L3 = salicylaldehyde S-methylisothiosemicarbazone, X=[CoIIBr3(py)]-, ClO4-. H2O, BF4-) were synthesized. The tridentate coordination of all the three dianionic forms of the ligands involves the phenol oxygen, hydrazine nitrogen and the chalcogen (O or S) in case of salicylaldehyde semi thiosemicarbazone and the terminal nitrogen atom in the case of isothiosemicarbazone. For all the complexes, a meridial octahedral arrangement is proposed, which is a consequence of the planarity of the chelate ligand. The compounds were characterized by elemental analysis molar conductivity, magnetic susceptibility, IR and electronic absorption spectra. The thermal decomposition of the complexes was investigated by thermogravimetry, coupled TG-MS measurements and DSC.
Transition metal complexes with thiosemicarbazide-based ligands, part 47: Synthesis, physicochemical and voltammetric characterization of iron(III) complexes with pyridoxal semi-, thiosemi- and S-meth
Authors: Jevtovic Violeta , Jovanovic Ljiljana , Leovac Vukadin , Bjelica Luka
Published: February 2009

The reaction of warm EtOH solutions of FeX3.nH2O (X=Cl, NO3) with tridentate ONX (X=O, S, N) pyridoxal semi-, thiosemi- and S-methylisothiosemicabazones (H2L1, H2L2, H2L3, respectively) yielded high-spin octahedral mono- and bis(ligand) complexes of the formula [Fe(H2L1-3)Cl2(H2O)]Cl,[Fe(HL1,2)2]Cl.nH2O and [Fe(H2L3)(HL3)]NO3)2.H2O. The compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, conductometric and magnetochemical measurements, IR and UV-Vis spectra. Besides, a detailed voltammetric study of the complexes was carried out in DMF solution in the presence of several supporting electrolytes, to characterize the nature of the electrode processes and solution equilibria.
Note of the hyper-Wiener index
Authors: Gutman Ivan , Furtula Boris , Belic Jasmin
Published: February 2009

The hyper-Wiener index WW of a chemical tree T is defined as the sum of the products n1n2, over all pairs ?,? of vertices of T, where n1 and n2 are the number of vertices of T, lying on the two sides of the path which connects ? and ?. We examine a slight modification WWW of the hyper-Wiener index defined as the sum of the products n1n2n3, over all pairs ?,? of vertices of T, where n3 is the number of vertices of T, lying between ? and ?. It is found that WWW correlates significantly better with various physico-chemical properties of alkanes than WW. Lower and upper bounds for WWW, and an approximate relation between WWW and WW are obtained.
Influence of the synthesis conditions on the photoluminescence of silica gels
Authors: Hinic Ivana , Stanisic Goran , Popovic Zoran
Published: February 2009

The photoluminescence spectra of silica xerogel samples synthesized with ethanol as solvent and xerogel where the ethanol was exchanged by water before drying are reported. In addition, the photoluminescence spectrum of a silica cryogel synthesized with tert-butanol as solvent was investigated. The samples were modified by formamide. Bands at 2.00, 2.20, 2.32 and 2.46 eV were identified. In the photoluminescence spectra of all samples. The band at 2.00 eV is caused by the presence of silane, and the band at 2.20 eV is connected with the nonstoichiometric composition of silica. The photoluminescence band at 2.32 eV was found to originate from the organic groups of the solvent. The origin of this band are E? defect centers, which is a prominenet paramagnetic defect in conventional a ? SiO2.
Normal-phase high performance liquid chromatography of estradiol derivatives on amino- and diol-columns
Authors: Acanski Marijana
Published: February 2009

The retention behavior of estradiol derivatives was studied by HPLC on chemically bonded polar stationary phases: commercially available amino and diol- columns, as a function of the heptane-propan-1-ol as the mobile phase, when the volume fraction of propan-1-ol in the binary mobile phase was low, even less than 5 %. The relationship between the logarithm of the retention constant (log k) and the logarithm of the volume fraction of propan-1-ol (?log ?) in the eluent was linear for all solutes studied. The results are discussed in terms of the solute and stationary phase properties and compared with the results of the same derivatives obtained in earlier investigations.
The role of the concentration profile of titanium oxide on the electrochemical behavior of RuO2-TiO2 coatings obtained by the sol-gel procedure
Authors: Panic Vladimir , Dekanski Aleksandar , Miskovic-Stankovic Vesna , Milonjic Slobodan , Nikolic Branislav
Published: February 2009

In order to understand the role of TiO2 in the deactivation mechanism of an active RuO2?TiO2 coating, an additional TiO2 layer was introduced in the support coating interphase of regular Ti//[RuO2?TiO2 anode in one case and on the surface of the coating in the other. The electrochemical behavior of these, with TiO2 enriched, anodes was compared with the behavior of anodes with regular RuO2?TiO2 coatings, which were subjected to an accelerated stability test. A high-frequency semicircle in the complex plane plot obtained by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, for a regular RuO2?TiO2 coating corresponds to TiO2 enrichment in the coating as a consequence of anode corrosion. In the case of the coatings with additional TiO2 layers, a high-frequency semicircle was not observed. The additional TiO2 layers increase the coating overall resistance and influence the coating impedance behavior at low frequencies. Similar equivalent electrical circuits were used to analyze the impedance behavior of coatings having an additional TiO2 layer at different position within RuO2?TiO2 coating.
Investigations of the reactivity of pyridine carboxylic acids with diazodiphenylmethane in protic and aprotic solvents, Part I: Pyridine mono-carboxylic acids
Authors: Marinkovic Aleksandar , Drmanic Sasa , Jovanovic Bratislav , Misic-Vukovic Milica
Published: February 2009

Rate constants for the reaction of diazodiphenylmethane with isomeric pyridine carboxylic acids were determined in chosen protic and aprotic solvents at 30 ?C, using the well known UV spectrophotometric method. The values of the rate constants of the investigated acids in protic solvents were higher than those in aprotic solvents. The second order rate constants were correlated with solvent parameters using the Kamlet-Taft solvatochromic equation in the form: logk = logk0 + s?*+ a? + b?. The correlation of the obtained kinetic data were performed by means of multiple linear regression analysis taking appropriate solvent parameters. The signs of the equation coefficients were in agreement with the postulated reaction mechanism. The mode of the influence of the solvent on the reaction rate in all the investigated acids are discussed on the basis of the correlation results.
Alternative syntheses of 3-hydroxy-17-bromo-16,17-secoestra-1,3,5(10)-triene-16-nitrile and crystallographic studies of two intermediates
Authors: Jovanovic-Santa Suzana , Djurendic Evgenija , Lazar Dusan , Stankovic Slobodanka
Published: February 2009

Abstract: Starting from estrone 3-benzyloxy-17-hydroxy-16,17-secoestra-1,3,5(10)-triene- 16-nitrile (1) was synthesized in several synthetic steps. This compound was the key intermediate in the syntheses of other 17-substituted-16,17-secoestrone derivatives. Among them 3-hydroxy-17-bromo-16,17-secoestra-1,3,5(10)-triene-16-nitrile (5) is of special interest, because of its antiestrogenic activity, with no estrogenic properties. For this reason an alternative pathway for the synthesis of this compound was sought. The structures of 3-benzyloxy-17-bromo-16,17-secoestra-1,3,5(10)-triene- 16-nitrile (compound 2) and 3-hydroxy-17-p-toluenesulphonyloxy-16,17-secoestra 1,3,5(10)-triene-16-nitrile (compound 4), intermediates in the two different synthetic pathways used to obtain the desired compound 5, were unambiguously proved by appropriate X-ray structural analyses. The puckering, asymmetry parameters and torsion angles of compounds 2 and 4 are discussed and molecular-mechanic calculations for them were performed.
Effects of Prandial Versus Fasting Glycemia on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes: The HEART2D trial
Authors: Raz Itamar , Wilson Peter W.F. , Strojek Krzysztof , Kowalska Irina , Bozikov Velimir , Gitt Anselm K. , Jermendy György , Campaigne Barbara N. , Kerr Lisa , Milicevic Zvonko , Jacober Scott J.
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE—Hyperglycemia and Its Effect After Acute Myocardial Infarction on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (HEART2D) is a multinational, randomized, controlled trial designed to compare the effects of prandial versus fasting glycemic control on risk for cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes after acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Patients (type 2 diabetes, aged 30–75 years) were randomly assigned within 21 days after AMI to the 1) prandial strategy (PRANDIAL) (three premeal doses of insulin lispro targeting 2-h postprandial blood glucose <7.5 mmol/l) or the 2) basal strategy (BASAL) (NPH twice daily or insulin glargine once daily targeting fasting/premeal blood glucose <6.7 mmol/l).

RESULTS—A total of 1,115 patients were randomly assigned (PRANDIAL n = 557; BASAL n = 558), and the mean patient participation after randomization was 963 days (range 1–1,687 days). The trial was stopped for lack of efficacy. Risks of first combined adjudicated primary cardiovascular events in the PRANDIAL (n = 174, 31.2%) and BASAL (n = 181, 32.4%) groups were similar (hazard ratio 0.98 [95% CI 0.8–1.21]). Mean A1C did not differ between the PRANDIAL and BASAL groups (7.7 ± 0.1 vs. 7.8 ± 0.1%; P = 0.4) during the study. The PRANDIAL group showed a lower daily mean postprandial blood glucose (7.8 vs. 8.6 mmol/l; P < 0.01) and 2-h postprandial blood glucose excursion (0.1 vs. 1.3 mmol/l; P < 0.001) versus the BASAL group. The BASAL group showed lower mean fasting blood glucose (7.0 vs. 8.1 mmol/l; P < 0.001) and similar daily fasting/premeal blood glucose (7.7 vs. 7.3 mmol/l; P = 0.233) versus the PRANDIAL group.

CONCLUSIONS—Treating diabetic survivors of AMI with prandial versus basal strategies achieved differences in fasting blood glucose, less-than-expected differences in postprandial blood glucose, similar levels of A1C, and no difference in risk for future cardiovascular event rates.
Trunk deformation in the trotting horse
Authors: Nauwelaerts S. , Clayton H. M.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Estimates of the position of the centres of mass (CM) of body segments are usually extrapolated relative to bony landmarks as determined in cadaver studies. This extrapolation assumes that segments are rigid bodies. Since the trunk represents a large percentage of the total body mass in horses, violation of the rigid body assumption by the trunk segment has important consequences for studying the biomechanics of equine locomotion.

Objectives: To assess the magnitude of error in CM position due to deformability of the trunk segment and the timing of these errors during the trotting stride. The hypothesis was that shape changes during a stride are repeatable and predictable.

Methods: Forty skin markers were attached in a grid pattern on the trunks of 6 adult horses, with an additional marker attached to each hoof. The markers were tracked using an 8 camera motion analysis system. Each horse was tested at 10 different velocities during trotting. The CM of the trunk was calculated under the assumption of a rigid body, based on 5 spine markers and from the volume encompassed by the 40 markers. The difference between the 2 calculation methods quantifies the effect of trunk deformation on the position of the CM.

Results: The trunk changed shape during locomotion in a repeatable manner resulting in cyclic changes in CM position. Amplitudes of the CM displacement due to trunk deformation were equal in magnitude in the transverse and longitudinal directions. In the vertical direction, the CM moved only at half the amplitude. Magnitudes were strongly horse‐dependent.

Conclusions and potential relevance: Shape changes in the equine trunk segment in the horizontal plane should be taken into account when modelling locomotion of horses. Amplitudes are horse dependent, complicating the development of correction routines.
Effects of a synthetic all‐weather waxed track versus a crushed sand track on 3D acceleration of the front hoof in three horses trotting at high speed
Authors: Chateau H. , Robin D. , Falala S. , Pourcelot P. , Valette J.‐P. , Ravary B. , Denoix J.‐M. , Crevier‐Denoix N.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Inadequate track surfaces are believed to be a risk factor in the occurrence of musculoskeletal injuries, but quantification of the shocks and vibrations provoked by hoof impact on different ground surfaces (including new synthetic tracks) has been insufficiently documented in trotters under high‐speed training conditions.

Objectives: To test the reliability and sensitivity of an accelerometric device to discriminate between the biomechanical effects of 2 different tracks at high speed.

Methods: Three French Trotters were used and their right front hooves were equipped with one triaxial accelerometer. Two different track surfaces (crushed sand track: S and all‐weather waxed track: W) were tested when horses were trotting in a straight line. For each session of measurements, trials were repeated 3 times in a Latin square design. The speed of the runs was set at 10 m/s, controlled by the driver and recorded synchronously. Sample rate was set at 6 kHz. Acceleration of the hoof (resultant vector and 3D components), power spectral density at impact and variability (between strides, trials, sessions and horses) were analysed. Statistical differences were tested using a GLM procedure (SAS). Least square mean differences were used for comparisons between tracks (P<0.05).

Results: Results showed that the deceleration of the hoof (magnitude of the resultant vector) was statistically different between the 2 tracks with an attenuation of the shock of about 50% on the all‐weather waxed track. Magnitude of the power spectral density was reduced at higher frequencies on W.

Conclusions and clinical relevance: These preliminary results demonstrate the sensitivity of the tool to discriminate between the different behaviours of the hoof on the different track surfaces at high speed. Deceleration and vibration of the hoof at impact were reduced on W compared to S, suggesting a better shock‐absorbing quality of this track.
In vitroevaluation of metacarpophalangeal joint loading during simulated walk
Authors: Den Hartog S. M. , Back W. , Brommer H. , Van Weeren P. R.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Insight into the loading pattern of the articular cartilage surface during the complete stride is important as biomechanical factors play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of joint trauma and osteoarthritis (OA).

Objectives: To determine the loading pattern in the equine MCP articulationin vitroduring simulated walk.

Methods: Eight cadaveric limbs from mature Dutch Warmblood horses were loaded in a pneumatic loading device in 6 different positions (A1‐A6). The pressure distribution on the articular surface of the proximal phalanx (P1) was measured at 7 sites (S1‐7) using intra‐articularly placed pressure sensitive films, which were analysed by scanning and densitometry.

Results: Pressures recorded after mid‐stance (A4, 5, 6) were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those before (A1, 2, 3) and showed the biphasic loading pattern of the walk at all sites, except for the site halfway along the sagittal groove (S7). At S7, there was a linear increase in pressure during the progress of the stance phase of the stride in most horses. Medially (S4, 5, 6) the pressure was significantly higher than laterally (S1, 2, 3) (P<0.05).

Conclusions and potential relevance: The heavier medial loading coincides with the location where articular cartilage degeneration in the process of OA in the equine MCP joint is known to start. The discrepancy between the loading of the central groove and the other parts of the joint may result in large stress differences at the end of the stance phase, which might be related to the pathogenesis of stress fractures in the first phalanx and distal third metacarpal bone.
The use of force plate measurements to titrate the dosage of a new COX‐2 inhibitor in lame horses
Authors: Back W. , Macallister C. G. , van Heel M. C. V. , Pollmeier M. , Hanson P. D.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Lameness is a highly prevalent condition in horses and the principal cause of removal from athletic activity. In clinical studies to evaluate nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug therapies, force plates are commonly used to assess improvement of lameness objectively.

Hypothesis: To use a force plate to determine the optimal dose of a new COX‐2 inhibitor (firocoxib) that will reduce lameness, when administered orally to horses once daily.

Methods: Sixty‐four horses that exhibited chronic lameness presumed due to osteoarthritis, including navicular disease, in at least one of the frontlimbs and at a stable level of severity, were included. Horses were treatedper oss.i.d. for 7 days as follows: vehicle control, firocoxib at 0.05, 0.1 or 0.25 mg/kg bwt. Force plate analysis of each horse was done for the selected (most) lame frontlimb at trot. Once between Days −19 and −4 (initial examination), and again on Day −2 or −1 (baseline), pretreatment force plate assessments were performed, and thereafter horses were assessed on Days 0, 2 and 6, approximately 10 h post treatment each time. Peak vertical force (PVF) and lameness grades at initial examination and at baseline, and their change from baseline in the 4 different treatment groups were analysed statistically at a significance level of P<0.05.

Results: The PVF results were found to be superior to vehicle control already at Day 0 for 0.25 mg/kg bwt and at Days 2 and 6 for 0.1 and 0.25 mg/kg bwt (P<0.05). Mean clinical lameness for both concentrations decreased >1 grade at Day 6.

Conclusions and clinical relevance: With the dosage of 0.25 mg/kg bwt lameness did not improve more than with 0.1 mg/kg bwt. Thus, 0.1 mg/kg bwt s.i.d. was considered to be the effective dose at reducing chronic lameness in horses presumed due to osteoarthritis, including navicular disease.
Kinetics and kinematics of the horse comparing left and right rising trot
Authors: Roepstorff L. , Egenvall A. , Rhodin M. , Byström A. , Johnston C. , van Weeren P. R. , Weishaupt M.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: At rising trot the rider sits alternately down on one diagonal pair of limbs and rises up on the other. The possible effects on asymmetry of locomotion induced by rising trot have rarely been studied.

Objectives: To demonstrate whether, and if so to what extent, rising trot causes asymmetrical loading in the vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) and/or asymmetrical effects on the locomotion pattern, comparing left and right side.

Methods: Seven elite horses were ridden in left and right rising trot on a treadmill, while VGRF and kinematics were measured, with the horses' neck raised, the poll high and the bridge of the nose slightly in front of the vertical.

Results: Force loading was generally increased in the limbs of the sitting diagonal. The lumbar back was lower between mid‐stances of the sitting and nonsitting stance, pelvic roll was limited and the tuber coxae heights were lower on the sitting side. Maximal hindlimb protraction was decreased. Forelimb retraction was increased and the T6 height decreased.

Conclusion: The rider movement induces an uneven biphasic load that affects the back, pelvis and limb kinematics and VGRF.

Potential relevance: The generally advocated technique of alternating limbs when riding in rising trot is supported. The VGRF changes between rising on the left or right diagonal were distinct, but minor in absolute terms and therefore unlikely to have direct impact on the occurrence of locomotor injuries. Knowledge of an increase of asymmetry in rising trot is potentially useful for riders/trainers.
Relationship between the forces acting on the horse's back and the movements of rider and horse while walking on a treadmill
Authors: von Peinen K. , Wiestner T. , Bogisch S. , Roepstorff L. , Van Weeren P. R. , Weishaupt M. A.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: The exact relationship between the saddle pressure pattern during one stride cycle and the movements of horse and rider at the walk are poorly understood and have never been investigated in detail.

Hypothesis: The movements of rider and horse account for the force distribution pattern under the saddle.

Method: Vertical ground reaction forces (GRF), kinematics of horse and rider as well as saddle forces (FS) were measured synchronously in 7 high level dressage horses while being ridden on an instrumented treadmill at walk. Discrete values of the total saddle forces (FStot) were determined for each stride and related to kinematics and GRF. The pressure sensitive mat was divided into halves and sixths to assess the force distribution over the horse's back in more detail. Differences were tested using a one sample t test (P<0.05).

Results: FStot of all the horses showed 3 peaks (P1‐P3) and 3 minima (M1‐M3) in each half‐cycle, which were systematically related to the footfall sequence of the walk. Looking at the halves of the mat, force curves were 50% phase‐shifted. The analysis of the FS of the 6 sections showed a clear association to the rider's and horse's movements.

Conclusion: The saddle force distribution during an entire stride cycle has a distinct pattern although the force fluctuations of the FStot are small. The forces in the front thirds were clearly related to the movement of the front limbs, those in the mid part to the lateral flexion of the horse's spine and the loading of the hind part was mainly influenced by the axial rotation and lateral bending of the back.

Potential relevance: These data can be used as a reference for comparing different types of saddle fit.
Evaluation of discriminant analysis based on dorsoventral symmetry indices to quantify hindlimb lameness during over ground locomotion in the horse
Authors: Church E. E. , Walker A. M. , Wilson A. M. , Pfau T.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Advances in gait analysis techniques have led to assessment tools that can aid in detecting and quantifying lameness; here, bilateral tuberà coxae and pelvic movement during over ground locomotion are compared in order to investigate a practical method to assess hindlimb lameness in the horse.

Objectives: To evaluate which parameters from anatomical landmarks on trunk and proximal hindlimbs are the best indicators of degree and side of hindlimb lameness.

Methods: Fifteen horses (age 11–23 years, 6 nonlame and 9 unilaterally hindlimb lame horses 1/10 to 2/10 lame) were fitted with 4 inertial sensors: tuber sacrale, left and right tubera coxae and withers; 889 strides were collected from 6 trot trials per horse. Horses were assessed for lameness by a qualified equine orthopaedic surgeon from videos. Vertical displacement data for each sensor were used to calculate symmetry indices as well as published Fourier analysis based parameters. Linear discriminant analysis was used to determine the most discriminative parameters for 2 scenarios: grading of severity of lameness and identification of the affected limb.

Results: Pelvic energy ratio gave the best indication for the degree of lameness. Directional symmetry index of the tubera coxae sensors yielded the highest discriminative power for identification of the lame limb.

Conclusions and potential relevance: A good indication of the degree of hindlimb lameness can be obtained from vertical displacement data of the pelvic midline, collected from inertial sensors during over ground locomotion. The trunk mounted inertial sensor system allows for a time efficient collection of a representative database from horses with differing grade and site of lameness in a clinical setting. This is crucial for future work on a robust definition of the best parameters for lameness classification under practical conditions.
Back kinematics of healthy trotting horses during treadmill versus over ground locomotion
Authors: Álvarez C. B. Gómez , Rhodin M. , Byström A. , Back W. , van Weeren P. R.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Treadmill locomotion is frequently used for training of sport horses, for diagnostic purposes and for research. Identification of the possible biomechanical differences and similarities between the back movement during treadmill (T) and over ground (O) locomotion is essential for the correct interpretation of research results.

Objectives: To compare the kinematics of the thoracolumbar vertebral column in treadmill and over ground locomotion in healthy horses.

Methods: Six sound Dutch Warmblood horses trotted on a T and O during 10 s at their own preferred velocity (mean ± s.d. 3.6 ± 0.3 m/s T and 3.6 ± 0.1 m/s O), which was the same in both conditions. Kinematics of the vertebral column was captured by infrared cameras using reflective skin markers attached over the spinous processes of selected vertebrae and other locations. Flexion‐extension and lateral bending range of motion (ROM), angular motion pattern (AMP) and intravertebral pattern symmetry (IVPS) of 5 vertebral angles (T6‐T10‐T13, T10‐T13‐T17, T13‐T17‐L1, T17‐L1‐L3 and L1‐L3‐l5) were calculated. Neck angle, linear and temporal stride parameters and protraction‐retraction angles of the limbs were also calculated.

Results: The vertical ROM (flexion‐extension) was similar in both conditions, but the horizontal ROM (lateral bending) of the lumbar angles T17‐L1‐L3 and L1‐L3‐L5 was less during T locomotion (mean ± s.d. difference of 1.8 ± 0.6 and 1.7 ± 0.9°, respectively, P>0.05). During O locomotion, the symmetry pattern of the lumbar vertebral angles was diminished from 0.9 to 0.7 (1 = 100% symmetry) indicating increased irregularity of the movement (P>0.05). No differences were found in the basic linear and temporal stride parameters and neck angle.

Potential relevance: Vertebral kinematics during treadmill locomotion is not identical to over ground locomotion, but the differences are minor. During treadmill locomotion lumbar motion is less, and caution should be therefore taken when interpreting lumbar kinematics.