bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser surface nitriding of Ti6Al4V alloy coupled with an external stress field
Authors: Xuan Fu-Zhen , Cao Li-Qin , Wang Zhengdong , Tu Shan-Tung
Published: January 2010

We report on an approach for laser surface nitriding of Ti6Al4V alloy coupled with an applied stress field. A surprising finding was that, with increasing the applied stress levels, the decreased residual stress, the nitrogen concentration near the surface, and the surface microhardness of the nitrided layer were associated with the increased friction coefficient. Across the depth of the nitrided layer, the hardness, the elastic modulus, and the wear resistance (H/E) measured by nanoindentation decreased gradually and were ascribed to the gradient of nitrogen concentration in the melt zone.
Corrosion products and mechanism on NiTi shape memory alloy in physiological environment
Authors: Hu Tao , Chu Chenglin , Xin Yunchang , Wu Shuilin , Yeung Kelvin W.K. , Chu Paul K.
Published: January 2010

Despite many investigations on the corrosion behavior of NiTi shape memory alloys (SMAs) in various simulated physiological solutions by electrochemical measurements, few have reported detailed information on the corrosion products. In the present study, the structure and composition of the corrosion products on NiTi SMAs immersed in a 0.9% NaCl physiological solution are systematically investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS), and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It is found that attack by Cl−results in nickel being released into the solution and decrease in the local nickel concentration at the pitting sites. The remaining Ti reacts with dissolved oxygen from the solution to form titanium oxides. After long-term immersion, the corrosion product layer expands over the entire surface and XPS reveals that the layer is composed of TiO2, Ti2O3, and TiO with relatively depleted Ni. The growth rate of the corrosion product layer decreases with immersion time, and the corrosion product layer is believed to impede further corrosion and improve the biocompatibility of NiTi alloy in a physiological environment. It is found that the release rate of nickel is related to the surface structure of the corrosion product layer and immersion time. A corrosion mechanism is proposed to explain the observed results.
Enhanced magnetoresistance of La2/3Ca1/3MnO3/Sr2FeMoO6 core/cell nanocrystalline composites synthesized by polymer-network sol-gel method
Authors: Shen Xi , Yao Lide , Yang Hua , Zhao Qing , Jin Changqing , Yu Richeng
Published: January 2010

This paper reports that the homogeneous nanocrystalline LCMO(core)/SFMO(shell) and SFMO(core)/LCMO(shell) series composites are successively synthesized using polymer-network sol-gel method. With the increase of SFMO content in the composites, the remanence magnetization Mr increases while the coercivity Hc decreases. This fact indicates that the ferromagnetic phase boosts up. Moreover, the LFMR (1 T) of the composites succeeds the preponderances of both SFMO and LCMO; i.e., the magnetoresistance (MR) value increases from 300 to 5 K and keeps a high level. In particular, the MR value of the LS-8 composite reaches 55% at 5 K and 7 T.
Kinetics of intermetallic compound layers and Cu dissolution at Sn1.5Cu/Cu interface under high magnetic field
Authors: Cheng Cong-qian , Zhao Jie , Xu Yang
Published: January 2010

The kinetics of intermetallic compound (IMC) layer and Cu dissolution at Sn1.5Cu/Cu interface under high magnetic field was experimentally examined. It is found that the IMC layer growth is controlled by flux-driven ripening process. The high magnetic field promotes the growth of IMC layer, retards the dissolution of Cu substrate, and decreases the content of Cu solute at the liquid–IMC interface front. Based on the experimental results, it is considered that the magnetization induced by magnetic field promotes the ripening process for IMC layer growth. The Lorentz force dampening the convection and magnetization decreasing the Cu solubility limit can retard the Cu dissolution and change the solute distribution at the liquid–IMC interface front.
Factors Affecting Songbird Nest Survival in Northern Mixed‐Grass Prairie
Authors: KERNS COURTNEY K. , RYAN MARK R. , MURPHY ROBERT K. , THOMPSON FRANK R. , RUBIN CORY S.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT Factors associated with the nest survival of mixed‐grass prairie passerines are not well known, especially in the context of contemporary grassland management. We documented the nest survival of clay‐colored sparrows (Spizella pallida), savannah sparrows (Passerculus sandwichensis), and bobolinks (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) in managed prairie in northwestern North Dakota, USA. We used logistic exposure models and an information‐theoretic framework to estimate nest survival and evaluate support for mechanisms (grazing, temporal factors, nest parasitism, nest‐site vegetation, and nest‐patch factors) relevant to nest survival. Survival for the entire nesting interval (23–28 days) was low for clay‐colored sparrow (18.2%), savannah sparrow (15.5%), and bobolink (3.5%). We found support for a cubic effect of nest age; survival of savannah and clay‐colored sparrow nests was greatest during mid‐incubation and least during the mid‐nestling period. Parasitized clay‐colored sparrow and bobolink nests had greater survival rates than nonparasitized nests. Nest survival of clay‐colored sparrows increased with increasing vegetation height and density. For savannah sparrows, nest survival was lower when cattle were present than when cattle were absent. Characteristics of the nest patch did not have strong effects based on model coefficients and confidence intervals, though they appeared in many of the most supported models. Positive effects of vegetation height and density on nest survival of clay‐colored sparrows and negative effects of cattle presence on nest survival of savannah sparrows suggest some detrimental effects of grazing. However, the need to restore and maintain intact prairies likely warrants the continuation of cattle grazing on conservation lands.
Changes in Elk Resource Selection and Distributions Associated With a Late‐Season Elk Hunt
Authors: PROFFITT KELLY M. , GRIGG JAMIN L. , GARROTT ROBERT A. , HAMLIN KENNETH L. , CUNNINGHAM JULIE , GUDE JUSTIN A. , JOURDONNAIS CRAIG
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT  Changes in resource selection associated with human predation risk may alter elk distributions and availability for harvest. We used Global Positioning System data collected from telemetered female elk (Cervus elaphus) to evaluate effects of refuges (areas where hunting was prohibited), spatial variation in hunting risk, and landscape attributes on resource selection within an established Greater Yellowstone Area, USA, winter range. We also evaluated elk distributions during and outside of a late‐season hunting period. Refuge areas and landscape attributes such as habitat type and snow water equivalents (SWE) affected resource selection. Elk selection for flat grasslands increased as SWE increased, likely because these areas were windswept, leaving grasses exposed for foraging. Elk distributions differed during hunting and no‐hunting periods. During the hunting period, elk shifted to privately owned refuge areas and the estimated odds of elk occupying refuge areas more than doubled. Risk‐driven changes in resource selection resulted in reduced availability of elk for harvest. Elk selection for areas where hunting is prohibited presents a challenge for resource managers that use hunting as a tool for managing populations and influences grazing patterns on private ranchlands.
Assessing Compensatory Versus Additive Harvest Mortality: An Example Using Greater Sage‐Grouse
Authors: SEDINGER JAMES S. , WHITE GARY C. , ESPINOSA SHAWN , PARTEE ED T. , BRAUN CLAIT E.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT  We used band‐recovery data from 2 populations of greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus), one in Colorado, USA, and another in Nevada, USA, to examine the relationship between harvest rates and annual survival. We used a Seber parameterization to estimate parameters for both populations. We estimated the process correlation between reporting rate and annual survival using Markov chain Monte Carlo methods implemented in Program MARK. If hunting mortality is additive to other mortality factors, then the process correlation between reporting and survival rates will be negative. Annual survival estimates for adult and juvenile greater sage‐grouse in Nevada were 0.42±0.07 (x̄±SE) for both age classes, whereas estimates of reporting rate were 0.15±0.02 and 0.16±0.03 for the 2 age classes, respectively. For Colorado, average reporting rates were 0.14±0.016, 0.14±0.010, 0.19±0.014, and 0.18±0.014 for adult females, adult males, juvenile females, and juvenile males, respectively. Corresponding mean annual survival estimates were 0.59±0.01, 0.37±0.03, 0.78±0.01, and 0.64±0.03. Estimated process correlation between logit‐transformed reporting and survival rates for greater sage‐grouse in Colorado was ρ = 0.68±0.26, whereas that for Nevada was ρ = 0.04±0.58. We found no support for an additive effect of harvest on survival in either population, although the Nevada study likely had low power. This finding will assist mangers in establishing harvest regulations and otherwise managing greater sage‐grouse populations.
Feral Swine Behavior Relative to Aerial Gunning in Southern Texas
Authors: CAMPBELL TYLER A. , LONG DAVID B. , LELAND BRUCE R.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT  Feral swine (Sus scrofa) impact resources through their destructive feeding behavior, competition with native wildlife, and impacts to domestic animal agriculture. We studied aerial gunning on feral swine to determine if aerial gunning altered home range and core area sizes, distances between home range centroids, and distances moved by surviving individuals. We collected data before, during, and after aerial gunning in southern Texas. Using Global Positioning System collars deployed on 25 adult feral swine at 2 study sites, we found home range and core area sizes did not differ before and after aerial gunning. However, feral swine moved at a greater rate during the aerial gunning phase than during the before and after periods. We concluded that aerial gunning had only minor effects on the behavior of surviving swine and that this removal method should be considered a viable tool in contingency planning for a foreign animal disease outbreak.
Forage Enhancement Plots as a Management Tool for Sonoran Pronghorn Recovery
Authors: WILSON RYAN R. , KRAUSMAN PAUL R. , MORGART JOHN R.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT  We studied the efficacy of forage enhancement plots for Sonoran pronghorn (Antilocapra americana sonoriensis) during a drought in a large (130‐ha) enclosure. As drought conditions continued, Sonoran pronghorn increased percent of time foraging in forage enhancement plots from 5.3±2.2% (SE) to 47.8±2.8% but showed signs of poor body condition and one died of starvation. Our results confirm the utility of forage enhancement plots for Sonoran pronghorn recovery, but suggest future research be conducted to determine the optimal size and watering regime of plots to increase survival and recruitment during prolonged droughts.
White‐Tailed Deer Antler Research: A Response to Demarais and Strickland
Authors: KOERTH BEN H. , KROLL JAMES C.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT  Demarais and Strickland presented several questions about the scope and validity of conclusions regarding predictability of mature antler size based on yearling antler size and produced a simulation model reported to demonstrate measurement bias in our 2008 study. We believe our conclusions were appropriate with our research hypothesis and demonstrated the assumed differential selection bias by hunters used in Demarais and Strickland was unwarranted. Demarais and Strickland provided no metadata to document the provenance of data used in their model and did not account for location, year, cohort, nutrition of research animals, or loss of individuals from their sample population by accidents or death: the same questions raised in their critique. Additionally, selection and experimental design problems in a portion of their sample population indicate their model results are questionable. Our responses to Demarais and Strickland will aid wildlife managers in making future culling decisions in white‐tailed deer management.
The Wall Layer Interactions in a Partially Heated Rectangular Enclosure
Authors: Li Hongmin
Published: January 2010

This paper presents an investigation on the wall layer interactions in a lower-half heated, upper-half cooled rectangular enclosure in both steady and unsteady laminar flow regimes. Results show that the flows have four wall layers and center core regions. At low Rayleigh numbers, both the wall layers and cores are steady. Each of the streams in the core region is formed by the combination of two wall layer segments from the same half of the enclosure. Fluid exchange between the two halves is very efficient. At high Rayleigh numbers, the wall layers at the same side of the enclosure collide head-on and generate unsteady streams. The interaction between the streams establishes a strong mixing region at the median height, which homogenizes the fluid temperature in the core regions. The overall flow structure and the path of the heat flow in the enclosure are determined by the momentum strength of the wall layers and their interactions.
Conversion of Biodiesel By-Product Glycerol to Fuel Ethers over Different Solid Acid Catalysts
Authors: Ozbay Nalan , Oktar Nuray , Dogu Gulsen , Dogu Timur
Published: January 2010

In this study, the etherification reaction of glycerol (G) with tert-butyl alcohol (TBA) was investigated for the production of high quality transportation fuel additives. The reaction was carried out in liquid phase, in a continuous flow reactor in the presence of various solid acid catalysts. Activities of acidic resin catalysts, such as Amberlyst-15 (A-15), Amberlyst-16 (A-16) and Amberlyst-35 (A-35), Nafion-SAC-13 and ?-alumina were compared. Significant increase in conversion was observed with an increase in temperature. Amberlyst 15 showed the highest activity at about 110°C, giving glycerol conversion values of about 0.5 at a space time of 18 g cm-3 s. However, A-16 gave higher di-ether selectivity values. Nafion-SAC-13 showed activity at higher temperatures, while the activity of ?-alumina was very low, even at 400°C.
Information Revelation in Markets with Pairwise Meetings: Complete Revelation in Dynamic Analysis
Authors: Isaac Tanguy
Published: January 2010

We study information revelation in markets with pairwise meetings. We focus on the one-sided case and perform a dynamic analysis of a constant entry flow model. The same question has been studied in an identical framework in Serrano and Yosha (1993) but they limit their analysis to the stationary steady states. Blouin and Serrano (2001) study information revelation in a one-time entry model and obtain different results from the ones of Serrano and Yosha (1993). We establish that the main difference is not due to the steady state analysis but to the differences concerning the entry assumption.
Biofungicides and their applicability in modern agricultural practice
Authors: Grahovac Mila , Indjic Dusanka , Lazic Sanja , Vukovic Slavica
Published: January 2010

Agricultural production in developed countries undergoes various changes, some of which take place at consumers' request, while others are of ethical importance. This is especially true of plant protection. A global demand for reducing the use of chemical pesticides, which are regarded as harmful to the consumer, induce the development of new, less harmful and sustainable strategies of plant protection. Many chemical pesticides have been excluded from further use (e.g. organochlorine insecticides, methyl bromide) due to their potential risk to human health, the environment and non-target organisms, or development of resistance of harmful organisms to those substances. A need for developing alternative protection systems in the future is beyond doubt and they should be implemented either as an addition or a substitute for conventional pesticides. Well-considered use of biological products in combination with other protection measures would meet the requirements for producing sanitary and health-safe agricultural products, and food in general. In the paper, we discuss the modes of action, formulation types and applicability of different biological fungicides, and list them individually with their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the production and application risks associated with biological products.
Outbreak, intensity of infestation and control of two new Eriophyids, Aceria oleae and Ahevtchenkella barensis, on olive nursery plants in Montenegro
Authors: Hrncic Snjezana , Perovic Tatjana , Radonjic Sanja , Petanovic Radmila , Vidovic Biljana
Published: January 2010

Only two species of eriophyoid mites, Ditrimacus athiasella Keifer and Oxycenus maxwelli (Keifer), have been registered in Montenegro until recently. Late in April 2007, chlorotic spots and deformations were found on apical leaves of one-year old seedlings of the zutica variety in a greenhouse in the town of Bar. Two species of eriophyoid mites were identified from the collected material, Aceria oleae, a widely distributed species in Mediterranean countries, and Shevtchenkela barensis, described as a new species in the world acarofauna. The intensity of infestation was calculated from all visually examined seedlings (2,560), as well as the percentage of seedlings with observed symptoms. Applying the method of periodic sampling, 50 seedlings (2 % of the total number) were chosen. The intensity of injury was estimated on the new growth. Of the total number of examined seedlings, obvious symptoms were detected on 61.45% of the plants. Of the 50 chosen seedlings, 56 % had all of their young leaflets injuried. Mite control was applied three times. After the third treatment, new leaves without symptoms emerged, while untreated seedlings stopped to grow, their injuried leaves fell off and the seedlings ultimately dried out completely.
Application of occlusal indices in orthodontic practice
Authors: Djordjevic Jelena , Scepan Ivana , Glisic Branislav
Published: January 2010

Introduction. Occlusal indices were designed to improve diagnostic criteria and to enable an objective assessment of malocclusion severity. The aim of this study was to present the most frequently used occlusal indices in orthodontic practice and to determine their reliability when applied to dental models. Material and Methods. Three occlusal indices were selected for analysis: the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN), the Peer Assessment Rating Index (PAR) and the Index of Complexity, Outcome and Need (ICON). Twenty dental models of patients referred to Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Belgrade, with malocclusions of different type and severity were used in this study. All dental models were measured by three afore mentioned indices twice, two months apart, in order to determine intraexaminer reliability. Results. The results showed that three indices had good reliability. Weighted Kappa was calculated for IOTN (0.72 and 0.79 for the aesthetic and the dental health component, respectively) and root mean square error was calculated for PAR and ICON (2.1 and 4.5, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference in scores between two measurements of these two indices (p<0.01). Conclusion. Application of occlusal indices enables orthodontists to determine priorities in patient care, planning of orthodontic service, monitoring and promotion of standards. Occlusal indices are reliable diagnostic criteria.
Cervical necrotizing fasciitis of odontogenic origin: Case report
Authors: Chrcanovic Ramos , Custódio Neto
Published: January 2010

Introduction. Necrotizing fasciitis is a rapidly spreading soft tissue polymicrobial infection characterized by necrosis of the subcutaneous tissue and superficial fascia. When its origin is an odontogenic infection, most cases resulted from an abscessed mandibular molar. The most common significant medical conditions in the patient's history are diabetes, immunodeficiency and substance abuse, between others. Left unchecked this infection invariably leads to systemic toxicity, multi-system organ failure and eventual death. Aggressive and frequent debridement with proper antibiotic and supportive care are essential for limiting morbidity and mortality. Case Report. A case of cervical necrotizing fasciitis involving Streptococcus pyogenes (group A) and Staphylococcus aureus in a 23-year-old woman with history of systemic lupus erythematosus is described. She was taking 20 mg/day prednisolone for 8 months and had a deeply carious tooth. Conclusion. This case shows what tooth decay may cause in immunologically compromised person. The professional should be aware of the early endodontic treatment importance, because when left unchecked, it might lead to an infection of the deep spaces of face and neck, or to cervical necrotizing fasciitis in patients with certain risk factors.
Closure of large oroantral fistula with resorbable collagen membrane: Case report
Authors: Markovic Aleksa , Colic Snjezana , Drazic Radojica , Stojcev Ljiljana , Gacic Bojan
Published: January 2010

Oroantral fistula is pathologic communication between oral cavity and maxillary sinus, usually localized between antrum and buccal vestibulum. Persisting OAF always causes chronic maxillary sinusitis. A technique for closure of a large oroantral fistula with resorbable collagen membrane is described.
Aerosol deposition of Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3 thin films
Authors: Brankovic Zorica , Brankovic G. , Tucic A. , Radojkovic A. , Longo E. , Varela J.A.
Published: January 2010

In this work we optimized conditions for aerosol deposition of homogeneous, nanograined, smooth Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3 thin films. Investigation involved optimization of deposition parameters, namely deposition time and temperature for different substrates. Solutions were prepared from titanium isopropoxide, strontium acetate and barium acetate. Films were deposited on Si (1 0 0) or Si covered by platinum (Pt (1 1 1) /Ti/SiO2/Si). Investigation showed that the best films were obtained at substrate temperature of 85?C. After deposition films were slowly heated up to 650?C, annealed for 30 min, and slowly cooled. Grain size of BST films deposited on Si substrate were in the range 40-70 nm, depending on deposition conditions, while the same films deposited on Pt substrates showed mean grain size in the range 35-50 nm. Films deposited under optimal conditions were very homogeneous, crackfree, and smooth with rms roughness lower than 4 nm for both substrates.
Influence of diatomite microstructure on its adsorption capacity for Pb(II)
Authors: Nenadovic S. , Nenadovic M. , Kovacevic R. , Matovic Lj. , Matovic B. , Jovanovic Z. , Novakovic-Grbovic J.
Published: January 2010

The effect of microstructural changes caused by mechanical modification on adsorption properties of diatomite samples were investigated. The microstructure has been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) while the degree of metal adsorption was evaluated by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP AES). The results show that metal sorption capacity of diatomite is considerably improved after mechanical modification and it can be attributed to amorphysation of the material. Immobilization efficiency increased from 22% for untreated to 81% for the treated sample after 5h at BPR 4.This qualifies natural diatomite as a material for wastewater remediation.
The effect of polymeric template density and solid loading on the properties of ceramic foam
Authors: Nor M.A.A.M. , Akil H.M. , Ahmad Z.A.
Published: January 2010

This paper studies the effect of various polymeric foam template densities and solid loadings on the properties of ceramic foam. The study was based on six different polymeric foam templates with densities ranging from 13.4 to 37.8 kg/m3. The templates were impregnated in ceramic slurry with solid loading ranging from 15 to 60 wt. %. Effects of polymeric foam template density and solid loading quantity were evaluated based on porosity, density and mechanical properties of resulted ceramic foam. It was found that the density, porosity and flexural strength of ceramic foam seem to be independent from the template densities when the solid loading is less than 35 wt. %. For the given solid loading, i.e < 35 wt. %, the density and flexural strength are less than 1100 kg/m3 and 6 MPa, respectively, and porosities are higher than 40 %. The polymer replication method is a versatile method for the production of ceramic foams. It will allow the production of any desired properties of ceramic foam through a simple modification route.
Detection methods for mycotoxins in cereal grains and cereal products
Authors: Pascale Michelangelo
Published: January 2010

Analytical methods for mycotoxins in cereals and cereal-based products require three major steps, including extraction, clean-up (to eliminate interferences from the extract and concentrate the analyte), and detection/determination of the toxin (by using suitable analytical instruments/technologies). Clean-up is essential for the analysis of mycotoxins at trace levels, and involves the use of solid phase extraction and multifunctional (e.g. MycoSep?) or immunoaffinity columns. Different chromatographic methods are commonly used for quantitative determination of mycotoxins, including gas-chromatography (GC) coupled with electron capture, flame ionization or mass spectrometry (MS) detectors (mainly for type-A trichothecenes), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with ultraviolet, diode array, fluorescence or MS detectors. The choice of method depends on the matrix and the mycotoxin to be analyzed. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is spreading rapidly as a promising technique for simultaneous screening, identification and quantitative determination of a large number of mycotoxins. In addition, commercial immunometric assays, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), are frequently used for screening purposes as well. Recently, a variety of emerging methods have been proposed for the analysis of mycotoxins in cereals based on novel technologies, including immunochromatography (i.e. lateral flow devices), fluorescence polarization immunoassays (FPIA), infrared spectroscopy (FT-NIR), molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) and optical biosensors.
Analysis of ochratoxin A in pig tissues using high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) as confirmative methods
Authors: Milicevic Dragan , Juric Verica , Stefanovic Srdjan , Veskovic-Moracanin Slavica , Jankovic Sasa
Published: January 2010

Two different analytical methods for the determination and confirmation of ochratoxin A (OTA) in blood serum, kidney and liver of pigs have been compared. Sample clean-up was based on liquid-liquid phase extraction. The detection of OTA was accomplished with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) combined either with fluorescence detection (FL) or electro spray ionization (ESI+) tandem mass spectrometry (MS-MS). Comparative method evaluation was based on the investigation of 82 samples of blood serum, kidney and liver originating from different regions of Serbia. The analytical results are discussed in view of the respective method validation data and the corresponding experimental protocols. In general, analytical data obtained with LC-MS-MS detection offered comparably good results in the sub-ppb concentration level indicating that the liquid chromatography electro spray tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) method was more specific and sensitive for the analysis and confirmation of ochratoxin A in pig tissues than high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) method after methylation of OTA.
Presence of moulds and aflatoxin M1 in milk
Authors: Jankovic Vesna , Vukojevic Jelena , Lakicevic Brankica , Mitrovic Radmila , Vukovic Dejan
Published: January 2010

Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) appears in milk or dairy products as a direct result of the cattle's ingestion of feed contaminated with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). This study comprises mycological and mycotoxicological investigations of 23 milk samples (raw, infant food, pasteurized, whey and yoghurt). The mycological testing showed dominant presence of genus Geotrichum. G. candidum was found in 9 samples, with the highest contamination in the raw milk samples. The contamination level of AM1 is defined by using direct competitive enzyme- -linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). AFM1 was found in 9 samples. AFM1 levels were lower than the recommended limits. However, as AFM1 is considered a probable human carcinogen (2B type), it is necessary to achieve a low level of AFM1 in milk. Therefore, cows' feed samples from various cowsheds are supposed to be evaluated routinely for aflatoxin, and kept away from fungal contamination as much as possible.
Ochratoxin A 'in vitro' biosynthesis by the Aspergillus ochraceus E'G isolate
Authors: Bocarov-Stancic Aleksandra , Miljkovic Aleksandra , Resanovic Radmila , Nesic Ksenija , Jacevic Vesna , Mihaljcic Danijela
Published: January 2010

This paper deals with the biosynthetic capacity for ochratoxin A (OTA) production by Aspergillus ochraceus E'G isolate derived from A. ochraceus CBS 108.08 strain, during 2007. Preliminary analysis of fungal potential for the production of OTA were performed according to the modified method of Filtenborg et al. (1983). Toxin production was tested in the following liquid media: (i) glucose-peptone-yeast extract broth (GPY - pH 5.6), (ii) potato-dextrose broth (PDB - pH 6.9), (iii) yeast extract-sucrose broth (YES - pH 6.5), and (iv) YES broth supplemented with 0.23 mg/l ZnSO4 x 5 H2O (YESZn - pH 6.5) after stationary and submerged cultivation. Dynamics of OTA biosynthesis was tested after the cultivation of A. ochraceus E'G on natural solid substrates, such as wet sterilized rice, corn and wheat grain. Cultivations were performed during different time periods (ranging from four days to few weeks) at different temperatures (ranging from 21?C to 30?C). The presence of OTA was determined as follows: (i) in liquid media according to the method of Balzer et al. (1978) modified by Bocarov-Stancic et al. (2003), and (ii) in the solid substrates according to the Serbian official methods for sampling and analyzing of fodder (Official Gazette of SFRY, No. 15/87). After the cultivation of A. ochraceus E'G isolate in liquid media, the highest yield of OTA (6.4 mg/l) was obtained after submerged cultivation in PDB (4 days, 128 rpm, 21-23?C). In the case of cultivation on solid substrates, the highest amount of OTA (800.0 mg/kg of dry matter) was recorded after several week long cultivation on wheat grain at 30?1?C.
Screening of mycotoxins in animal feed from the region of Vojvodina
Authors: Kokic Bojana , Cabarkapa Ivana , Levic Jovanka , Mandic Anamarija , Matic Jovana , Ivanov Dusica
Published: January 2010

This paper shows the results of screening of mycotoxins in animal feed originating from the region of Vojvodina. Permanent screening is needed on all levels of production and storage, as well as the use of known methods to reduce mould contamination or toxin content in feedstuffs and feed. A total of 56 representative samples were collected from feed companies from the region of Vojvodina. Samples were collected during February 2009. The collected samples included 41 samples of feedstuffs (soybean, soybean meal, soybean grits, soybean cake, maize, sunflower meal, barley, wheat feed flour, rapeseed meal, dehydrated sugar beet pulps, alfalfa meal, yeast, dried whey, fish meal, meat-bone meal) and 15 samples of complete feedingstuffs. The amounts of aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, zearalenone, fumonisin and deoxynivalenol were determined. Screening method for the analysis was done using Neogen Veratox? testing kits. The test itself is a competitive direct enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (CD-ELISA). Mycotoxins were present in 71.4% of the samples, but the values determined were below the maximum allowed limits for both Serbian and EC reference values. Zearalenone was found with the highest incidence (57.1% of samples), followed by ochratoxin A (37.5%), fumonisin (33.9%), deoxynivalenol (14.3%) and aflatoxins (3.6%).
Acute Inhibition of Fatty Acid Import Inhibits GLUT4 Transcription in Adipose Tissue, but Not Skeletal or Cardiac Muscle Tissue, Partly Through Liver X Receptor (LXR) Signaling
Authors: Griesel Beth A. , Weems Juston , Russell Robert A. , Abel E. Dale , Humphries Kenneth , Olson Ann Louise
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Insulin-mediated glucose uptake is highly sensitive to the levels of the facilitative GLUT protein GLUT4. Transcription of the GLUT4 gene is repressed in states of insulin deficiency and insulin resistance and can be induced by states of enhanced energy output, such as exercise. The cellular signals that regulate GLUT4 transcription are not well understood. We hypothesized that changes in energy substrate flux regulate GLUT4 transcription.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

To test this hypothesis, we used transgenic mice in which expression of the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene is driven by a functional 895-bp fragment of the human GLUT4 promoter, thereby acting as a reporter for transcriptional activity. Mice were treated with a single dose of etomoxir, which inhibits the transport of long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria and increases basal, but not insulin-mediated, glucose flux. GLUT4 and transgenic CAT mRNA were measured.

RESULTS

Etomoxir treatment significantly reduced CAT and GLUT4 mRNA transcription in adipose tissue, but did not change transcription in heart and skeletal muscle. Downregulation of GLUT4 transcription was cell autonomous, since etomoxir treatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes resulted in a similar downregulation of GLUT4 mRNA. GLUT4 transcriptional downregulation required the putative liver X receptor (LXR) binding site in the human GLUT4 gene promoter in adipose tissue and 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Treatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes with the LXR agonist, TO901317, partially restored GLUT4 expression in etomoxir-treated cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that long-chain fatty acid import into mitochondria in adipose tissue may produce ligands that regulate expression of metabolic genes.
Diabetes Care in Black and White Veterans in the Southeastern U.S.
Authors: Twombly Jennifer G. , Long Qi , Zhu Ming , Wilson Peter W.F. , Narayan K.M. Venkat , Fraser Lisa-Ann , Webber Brian C. , Phillips Lawrence S.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Eliminating health disparities is a national priority, but progress has been difficult because of racial/ethnic differences in insurance coverage and access to health care. We investigated whether there were differences in diabetes care in the Veterans Administration (VA), where health care access should be relatively uniform.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A1C and plasma glucose were compared before/after diagnosis of diabetes.

RESULTS

Data were available for 1,456 black and 2,624 white veterans who met criteria for consistent primary care. Over 4–5 years before and after diagnosis, blacks had similar glucose and ∼0.2% higher A1C levels than whites, and A1C differences could be attributed to glucose-independent associations between race and A1C. Blacks and whites also had comparable intervals between diagnostic-level hyperglycemia and diagnosis and between diagnosis and drug initiation. However, A1C was higher in blacks at the time of diagnosis (7.8 vs. 7.1%) and at initiation of pharmacotherapy (8.5 vs. 7.8%) (both P < 0.001). Differences in A1C at diagnosis and drug initiation were too large to be explained by differences in age, sex, BMI, and glucose-independent associations between race and A1C.

CONCLUSIONS

In the VA, glucose levels are generally comparable in blacks and whites except at the times of diagnosis and initiation of pharmacotherapy, when glucose levels are higher in blacks. While understanding the basis for such residual disparities may be important to improve the health of racial/ethnic minorities in the U.S., a health care system with structure and organization similar to that in the VA may also contribute importantly to relieving disparities in health.
Changes in Glitazone Use Among Office-Based Physicians in the U.S., 2003–2009
Authors: Cohen Andrew , Rabbani Atonu , Shah Nilay , Alexander G. Caleb
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Little is known regarding recent changes in glitazone use.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Interrupted time series analyses of nationally representative office-visit data using IMS Health's National Disease and Therapeutic Index.

RESULTS

From 2003 through 2005, glitazone use increased steadily. From February 2005 to January 2007, rosiglitazone use decreased by 16% (95% CI −20 to −11) annually; pioglitazone use increased at an annual rate of 14% (9–18). During a period of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisories, rosiglitazone use declined sharply from 0.42 million monthly treatment visits (February 2007) to 0.13 million monthly visits (May 2008). Pioglitazone use remained stable, accounting for ∼5.8 million physician visits (77% of all glitazone use) where a treatment was used during the final 12 months of observation.

CONCLUSIONS

The combined effect of scientific publications, advisories, and media exposure was associated with a substantial decrease in rosiglitazone use. Despite a class-level FDA advisory, pioglitazone use was not similarly affected.
Fluoride bioavailability in saliva using DENTTABS® compared to dentifrice
Authors: Naumova Ella , Arnold Wolfgang , Gaengler Peter
Published: January 2010

It was the aim of this study to assess fluoride retained in saliva after use of fluoride-containing tablet DENTTABS® compared to toothpaste containing amine fluoride. Four subjects (2 normal saliva secretors, 1 slow secretor, and 1 fast secretor) participated in this crossover study comparing DENTTABS® and ELMEX®. After baseline sample collection, calibrated study personnel brushed the subjects’ teeth with the assigned product for 3 minutes. Saliva samples were taken at baseline (T0), immediately after brushing (T1) and then 10 (T2), 25 (T3) and 85 (T4) minutes post-brushing. The amount of saliva collected was measured, and the fluoride content was analysed. All 4 subjects repeated all study cycles 5 times. Statistical analysis was done using the Mann-Whitney-U test and Spearman correlation. The fluoride retention was significantly higher after brushing with DENTTABS® at T1 and T2. There was a correlation between individual salivary flow rate and the F- content. Flow rate in g/min ranged from 1.1 to 3.8 at T1 and from 0.2 to 1.1 at T4 with much higher F- retention in slow secreting cycles. The saliva fluoride clearance kinetics of two equal amounts of fluoride-containing oral hygiene products demonstrate higher retention for DENTTABS®.
An unusual cause of hypotension and abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG) — scombroid poisoning
Authors: Lionte Catalina
Published: January 2010

Scombroid fish or histamine food poisoning is an illness typically associated with fish consumption, rarely encountered and reported in Europe. Symptoms develop quickly and resemble an allergic reaction. This paper reports three cases of severe scombroid poisoning in previously healthy patients, which presented diffuse macular erythema, hypotension, palpitations, and abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG). All patients required intensive care, with a complete resolution of symptoms and ECG changes within 24 hours. This is the first Romanian report of scombroid poisoning, emphasizing that medical personnel should be aware of this condition, because symptoms and ECG changes often lead to confusion with other diseases.
Wilson’s disease
Authors: Hursitoglu Mehmet , Cikrikcioglu Mehmet , Danalioglu Ahmet , Tukek Tufan
Published: January 2010

Wilson’s disease is an autosomal-recessive disorder caused by mutation in the ATP7B gene. Absent or reduced function of ATP7B protein leads to decreased hepatocellular excretion of copper into bile. Subsequent copper accumulation, first in the liver but ultimately in the brain and other tissues, produces different clinical manifestations such as hepatic, neurological, hematological, ophthalmological, and psychiatric problems. Diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion, parameters of copper metabolism, ophthalmic examination (Kayser-Fleischer rings) and a liver biopsy. Genetic studies are of limited use. Early diagnosis and initiation of therapy with chelators and therapeutic plasma exchange therapy are essential for prognosis. Liver transplantation corrects the underlying pathophysiology and can be lifesaving in fulminant hepatic failure. Screening of siblings and 1st degree relatives of the patients is also important.
Functional Analysis of Genes
Authors: Sitnicka Dorota , Figurska Katarzyna , Orzechowski Slawomir
Published: January 2010

The aim of this article is to present the current literature concerning the expression analysis and methods of functional characteristics of genes. The progress in the analysis of gene expression within cells or whole tissues is undisputed and leads to a constant improvement of our understanding of the function of particular gene. The traditional methods of the functional characteristics of genes such as homology, inactivation and overexpression are more frequently being replaced by microarray and DNA chip analysis, which are extensively supported by bioinformatics tools. Knowledge of the functions and changes in gene expression has applications in medical diagnostics, the pharmaceutical industry and in plant and animal biotechnology.
The Most Important Transcriptional Factors of Osteoblastogenesis
Authors: Witkowska-Zimny Malgorzata , Wrobel Edyta , Przybylski Jacek
Published: January 2010

One of the key issues of organogenesis is the understanding of mechanisms underlying the differentiation of progenitor cells into more specialized cells of individual tissues. Recent transcriptomic and proteomic approaches of molecular biology have led to the identification of several factors and mechanisms regulating morphogenesis at the genetic level which affect the function of already differentiated cells. In the last few years, several reports about osteoblastogenesis have been published. This review presents recent findings on the role of the most important transcription factors supporting bone formation.
Pollen Transcriptome and Proteome: Molecular and Functional Analysis
Authors: Rafinska Katarzyna , Zienkiewicz Krzysztof , Bednarska Elzbieta
Published: January 2010

The pollen grain, because of its unique structural organization, is an extremely useful experimental model in cytological, molecular as well as in genetic studies. Due to the ease of pollen grain isolation, their sorting as well as simple extraction of their DNA, RNA and proteins, male gametophyte cells of angiosperms are presently one of the most intensively studied plant cells. Important and rapid progress in the development of experimental tools for genome exploration caused a significant increase in the number of reports concerning different aspects of gene expression during microsporogenesis and microgametogenesis in angiosperm plants. In this review we present the current knowledge of the pollen transcriptome and proteome during different stages of male gametophyte development, especially in Arabidopsis thaliana. Most of the results presented here were obtained in experiments carried out using microarrays, which were designed on the basis of the known sequence of the Arabidopsis genome.
Charles Lyell from 1832 to 1835: marriage, Principles, 2 trips to Heidelberg, snails and loess
Authors: Smalley Ian , Markovic Slobodan , O’Hara-Dhand Ken
Published: January 2010

Charles Lyell, on his way to becoming a famous geologist, married Mary Horner in Bonn in July 1832; volume 3 of his ‘Principles of Geology’ was published by John Murray in London in May 1833. Between these two dates Lyell encountered the loess of the Rhine valley. The loess impressed Lyell and he included mentions of it in the Principles, first in 1833 and then, with some revised ideas, in volume 4 of the 4th edition published in 1835. Twelve editions of the Principles were published between 1830 and 1875 and it became one of the most important works in the development of geology, and made a major contribution to the worldwide spread of loess awareness. It is possible that Lyell was drawn to the loess because of its high molluscan content, he was particularly attracted to the study of shells.
Follow‐up national survey (Sweden) of routines for intrapartum fetal surveillance
Authors: HOLZMANN MALIN , NORDSTRÖM LENNART
Published: January 2010

We performed a follow‐up national survey concerning intrapartum fetal surveillance in Sweden to investigate if routines had changed since a previous survey in 1999, due to new data that have emerged since and technical developments. All labor wards throughout Sweden, with sizes varying from around 350 to more than 9,000 deliveries per year, have at present a rather uniform policy for intrapartum fetal surveillance with electronic fetal monitoring (EFM). They all use admission tests, fetal scalp blood sampling and have written guidelines for EFM. However, only 72% have written guidelines for fetal blood sampling. In 89% of the units lactate is analyzed in the fetal blood sampling. In half of the units the STAN‐monitor is used.
Increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 in uterosacral ligament tissue from women with pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: STRINIC TOMISLAV , VULIC MARKO , TOMIC SNJEZANA , CAPKUN VESNA , STIPIC IVICA , ALUJEVIC IVANA
Published: January 2010

Mechanical stability of the urogenital tract depends on intact collagen fibers. Because of difficulties in quantitating collagen, some authors have investigated collagen breakdown by measuring matrix metalloproteinases expression. We biopsied 68 post‐menopausal women during operation to evaluate matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (MMP‐1) expression in uterosacral ligament biopsies from women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) (n = 34) and controls with normal pelvic support (n = 34). The controls were matched to the POP group by age, body mass index, parity and duration of postmenopausal state. Immunohistochemistry for MMP‐1 was performed on formalin fixed and paraffin embedded sections. Women with POP had a significantly higher MMP‐1 expression (p = 0.047) which confirms an association, although not a causal relation, between POP and increased MMP‐1 expression.